Mother Nature — she’s a cruel, old mistress, she is. Instead of cooperating on Jan 18. for a regional “winterfest” bash by bringing forth flakes, drops fell, as she decided to bring forth inches of rain instead of a staple snowfall, forcing the community affair to deal with atypical, traditional conditions. The good news? That didn’t deter Mentor’s annual Chill Out, as scores of seasonal enthusiasts turned out at Civic Center Park to “celebrate” an event and time of year that’s been rockin’ since 2019 (save one year due to that punk, COVID). Future NHL stars practice their techniques on the stage of the Mentor Civic Amphitheater on Jan. 18 during Chill Out’s Hockey Shooter Tutor demonstration. (Chad Felton — The News-Herald) While still “chilly,” by any estimation, Mentor Recreation Coordinator Kevin Cindric believes the fête brings warmth to even the coldest of days. “Chill Out is a family-friendly event that brings people together — whether it’s families, friends or neighbors —and creates a shared experience that makes lasting memories,” he said. Cindric, absolutely aware of Mother Nature’s predilection for unpredictability, noted that the city had plans in place and, thus, introduced a 100-foot carnival slide to ensure “tons of fun,” just in case the weather precluded sledding. Instead of traditional sledding, thanks to persistent rainfall, Mentor Chill Out’s Fun Slide provided ample alternative excitement for young attendees on Jan. 18. (Chad Felton — The News-Herald) Rain, shine, or snow, the latter of which came later in the day, Chill Out featured its regular entertainment-based activities, including a Half-K Donut Dash — spotlighting “runners” noshing pastries and quaffing hot chocolate while bolting toward the finish line. Additional enjoyment had guests visiting craft stations, taking to an outdoor skating rink, rockin’ to music and gleefully gawking at sculptors liberating unique creations from ice blocks, a staple of many winter-themed events. Food and drink, of course, certainly rounded out the day, with cider samplings and whiskey flights from Geneva-based Seven Brothers Distilling Co. Local chefs also competed, filling bellies with samples during the “Chilly Cook-Off.” The soirée concluded with a fireworks display, capping a day officials know people look forward to. “Once the Christmas trees are down and the decorations are put away, we get to face the drudgery of Lake County’s long cold winter,” said Mentor Communications Officer Ante Logarusic. “And Chill Out is a great opportunity for families to get out and have some fun.”