Terry Marsh has been called the "good godfather of Arlington" because of his many community service activities and his passion for helping local businesses succeed in these difficult economic times. Marsh's latest brainchild, a plethora of snowmen, will be on display at the community-wide Holiday Open House in downtown Arlington, set for Saturday, November 6.

Marsh worked with Mary Anderson, president of the Downtown Arlington Business Association (DABA), to implement the snowmen idea. Local artist Debby Tucker designed and painted many of the friendly wooden characters to represent individual businesses.

"The goal of the snowmen is to attract people into the downtown sector of Arlington and Smokey Point," explained DABA member Debora Nelson of Photographic Journeys, "and to show people that we have wonderful hometown businesses that can meet the shopping needs of our residents and visitors."

The idea is similar to other projects the town has tackled over the past few years. It all started with a Cow Parade a few years ago and last year's "Some Things Fishy in Arlington" promotion that featured hundreds of hand-decorated fish cutouts. Both of those projects were co-sponsored by the Arlington Arts Council.

Most of the downtown merchants are participating in the all-day Open House event and Snowmen Debut by offering special pricing and fun activities that promote the holiday spirit.

Olympic Avenue, between 3rd and 4th streets, will be closed to traffic from 4 to 8 p.m., with music and firepits warming strolling shoppers. Arlington firemen will also be on hand Saturday with free fixings for S'mores.

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