The Fifth Annual EWMA Polar Bear Fly was more like a Duck Fly. The park hills were socked in with fog, as you can see in this photo. Adding to the wetness, it had just finished raining New Year's morning. We didn't know whether flying was going to be possible until the time folks arrived. However, the weather didn't dampen the festivities.

Two tents were used this year for the first time. Big propane heaters were available but never fired up because the temperature hovered around 55 degrees, never to fall below 50. As always, there were lots of spectators on moderate days. In just two days, the high was 33 degrees with snow.

"Little Al" Watts supplied sausage and egg biscuits for early birds who were hungry. This was a welcomed supplement to the coffee and hot chocolate. Chili with all the fixin's has become such a mainstay of this event that four recipes were featured this year. It almost turned out to be a chili cook-off between Bryce Custer, James Fisher, Greg Bridwell, and Jim Snapp. Everyone missed sampling Tommy Clayton's contribution this time.

This year, Greg's tasty cornbread, as well as Liz Custer's cherry pie and brownies, were new (hopefully permanent) additions. Albert Watts was on hand with his homemade pies as usual. Larry Paxton brought some cookies he made. There was plenty of food and flying for the 45 present. What a great way to begin 2003!

You can compare this event to the First Annual, Second Annual, Third Annual, Fourth Annual, Fifth Annual, Sixth Annual, Seventh Annual, Eighth Annual, and Nineth Annual Polar Bear Fly.

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