Sunshine, slush, ice, rain, snow … you name it, the 2013 Homer Winter Carnival had a little of everything.
It also had plenty of fun, thanks to the Homer Chamber of Commerce, the sponsorship of Alaska USA Federal Credit Union and a long list of volunteers who did everything from stopping traffic from interrupting Saturday’s parade to judging parade entries.
Speaking of the parade, Homer Mayor Beth Wythe was the grand marshal. Judges Alita Mahan, Helen Phipps and Crystal Rogers selected the parade winners.
Parade
Nonprofit: Relay for Life
Family/individual: Personal Growth, a group of new Homer residents
Social club: Krewe of Gambrinus, marching for the Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies;
Judges choice: Krewe Ton du’ Chanceaux

Brew competition
There were 87 different entries in the 31st annual home brew competition sponsored by The Brew Shop and held Saturday at the Bidarka Inn Best Western. Winners included:
Lager wheat: Michael Lassin
Imperial pale ale: Michael Lassin
Pale ale: Jason Allmendinger
Amber: Randy Creamer
Porter: Carrie Oats
Stout: Craig Phillips
Pumpkin beer: Dan McNolty
Big beer: Joel Cooper
Cider: Ryan Lee
Mead: Rhubarb mead, Eric Swanberg
Best of show: Eric Swanberg

Ice events
It was a play day for ice-racing vehicles due to weather and conditions on Beluga Lake, according to Dean Ravin. Look for them to be on the ice this weekend, as long as the temperatures stay cool.

The Homer Cycling Club also decided to cancel races on Beluga Lake. However, plans are underway for the Big Bike Festival March 1-3. The festival kicks off Feb. 28 with a screening of “Reveal the Path” at Alaska Islands and Ocean Visitor Center, doors opening at 6:30 p.m., film beginning at 6:30 p.m.