Hannah Jones/Winonan

The weeks leading up to the Frozen River Film Festival, which took place on campus Jan. 23-27, were a busy time for Assistant Director Kathy Florin.

Most everyone who purchased their tickets in advance at Chapter 2 Books in downtown Winona encountered her at her table, distributing both tickets and information for the flocks that came to town to enjoy the festival.

Florin admitted to feeling a little tired at the time, and no one can blame her. In fact, there was a lot of exhaustion to go around for everyone involved in the proceedings.

The Frozen River Film Festival steering committee, according to Florin, meets on a weekly basis throughout the year just to plan the January event. Tuesday and Thursday of that week, ice was flying outside the Science Lab Center as a master carver crafted a frozen sculpture for display.

On Friday night, tents and pavilions were going up inside the building, preparing for the local businesses and exhibits on parade for the movie-going crowds, all giving these visitors and locals alike a taste of Winona, Minn.

“We prepare all year for it,” Florin said, “and the moment is still stressful and hectic.”

Considering all the stress that goes into the festival every year, perhaps it’s not surprising that this year’s theme is in line with the university’s 2012-2013 focus on all-around wellness.

The concept of wellness was everywhere during the festival in some form or another. Florin said, the farmer’s market highlighted the importance of healthy eating and knowing where our food comes from. The organic fruits, vegetables, baked goods and jams looked delectable on table after table in the bustling atrium, bursting with color and natural freshness.

The festival also addressed wellness in the form of community health, inviting Winona organizations such as the Bluff Country Co-Op, the Women’s Resource Center and Big Brothers Big Sisters to take part in the celebration.

The films themselves approached the theme in a variety of unique ways. “I Am,” a film by Tom Shadyac, director of the Ace Ventura movies and Bruce Almighty, pulled at the audience members’ heartstrings as it followed the director’s journey to find the heart of humanity’s problems and find happiness.

For those looking for something more heart-pounding than heart-tugging, the festival also featured several “Adrenaline Sets” of short films featuring extreme activities; everything from biking to equestrian dentistry. That’s right, pulling horses’ teeth.

The festival didn’t neglect those who wanted to find spiritual or emotional wellness, either. Several clinics and workshops allowed attendees to explore yoga, acupuncture and tai chi. Films, food and fun were everywhere to be found, as were the happy, excited attendees.

It’s not often one can find so many ways to be well in one place, especially during a Minnesota January setting records for cold.

“I think it’s awesome,” Winona State student Alex Paulson said of the festival, “and I’m so glad I came.” Paulson is one of the many Winona State students who got to enjoy the festival for free, needing only to present his ID to get a ticket.

“The impact is growing every year,” Florin said, her face breaking into a weary smile. “[The festival] is becoming a very big part of Winona culture.” She said the same of the festival scene in general in Winona.

Between the Shakespeare Festival, the Midwest Music Fest and other community events, it’s these big get-togethers that keep the town thriving, cultured and proud.

Florin said these festivals all work together, helping local businesses and making each year the best yet. In a way, it’s truly incredible. In the middle of January, after a legendary cold snap and an ugly brown stint without snow, Winona was still teeming with excitement and togetherness, thanks to the event that brought everyone together.

“My favorite part is probably seeing everyone there,” Florin said. “People mingling, talking, sharing stories, coming out of the woodwork in the middle of winter … they just try to make our lives and communities a healthier place to live in.”

Next on the local radar will be the Rockwell Kent festival. The ice sculpture for the Frozen River Film Festival made a nod to this upcoming event, revealed to be a gigantic whale by the time it was completed on Wednesday. Festivalgoers will have a few weeks to catch their breath before this next big Winona event.

When asked, overall, how she felt, Florin smiled again. “Excited,” she immediately said. “Tired, but excited.”

Contact Hannah at [email protected]