A massive snowstorm is expected to lay a thick blanket of flakes in Mid-Missouri just in time for Christmas.
For the Alonzo family on Mercedes Lane, they were able to enjoy a prelude as the winners of the Jefferson City Parks, Recreation and Forestry Department's Guaranteed White Christmas.
For nearly two decades, KRCG-13 and the Jefferson City Sub Shop have teamed up to provide the truckload of "snow," actually ice shavings from the Washington Park ice arena, to an area family.
Cheryl Alonzo's name was drawn from 269 entries - one family put in 72. But Alonzo only put in one.
"Obviously, it only takes one to win," said Missy Morarity, recreation supervisor.
Entries were eligible from people who live within a 15-mile radius of the city.
In addition to the early "snow," the Alonzo family also may reserve the ice arena for a two-hour private rental, complete with party sub sandwiches, for up to 100 guests.
Past winners include a student at St. Francis Xavier School, Taos; a family whose father had passed away the preceding Thanksgiving; and several avid ice skaters.
"This is a unique way to promote the ice arena," Morarity said. "And it's a nice Christmas treat for a local family."