*Wanted! Missing Winterfest Rock!

 

The Mayor’s Rock Has Officially Gone Rogue

$20 Reward Offered for Its Return

By Laura Chamberlain
Originally published in the Northside Community Voice

     Hidden as part of the 2026 WinterFest treasure hunt, the brightly painted rock was expected to make its annual appearance when a lucky finder brought it forward to claim the traditional $50 prize. Instead, WinterFest came and went… and the rock never showed.

     At first, officials assumed the rock was simply very well hidden. Upon further investigation, it became clear that the rock hadn’t just beaten the clue-solvers — it had vanished altogether.

     City officials believe someone may have discovered the rock during its hiding period without realizing what it was. Rather than being triumphantly presented at WinterFest headquarters, the rock likely went home as a curious souvenir, paperweight, or possibly the most famous doorstop in town.

     “It’s a rock with a long history,” Mayor Verzal said. “It has survived freezing winter weather, snowdrifts, multiple mayors, and some very creative hiding spots. We’re hoping it survives this latest adventure too.”

     In hopes of luring the rock back to its pedestal at City Hall, the mayor is offering a $20 reward for its safe return — no questions asked.

     The Mayor’s Rock is painted in bright yellow, red, and green and is clearly marked for WinterFest, which means if you suddenly realize you’ve been unknowingly harboring a piece of local history, now is the time to head down to City Hall.

     Residents are encouraged to check garages, coat pockets, kids’ toy boxes — anywhere else a mysterious rock might end up. Until then, the Mayor’s Rock remains officially MIA — possibly confused, possibly lost, but definitely missed.