WALKER, Minnesota — A Twin Cities man making a big impact on this weekend's Eelpout Festival up north in Walker.
John Franks of Blaine has carved the 50-thousand pound ice bar for the event 10 years in a row.
Franks, who launched his ice carving business when he was 29 back in 1983-has also taken first place six years in a row at the St. Paul Winter Carnival.
"I mean physically,it's a lot of work but it's so enjoyable that I really felt like I retired," Franks said. "I'm blessed to have this hobby business and it's turned into an awesome thing."
The Eelpout Festival is celebrating its 40th year and runs through Sunday.
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