In a Jamestown neighborhood where snowfall is a rarity, one resident, Matt Lopina, has taken matters into his own hands to transform his backyard into a snowy retreat. Using a homemade snow machine, Lopina is bringing the joys of winter to his family and neighbors.
How a Father Made Snow for His Kids
Lopina, a Jamestown native, has engineered a unique snow machine using an air compressor and a pressure washer. The combination creates a specialized nozzle that blends air with water, spraying out a fine mist that freezes instantly when temperatures drop to a chilly 27 degrees or cooler.
Desiring to provide his children with the thrill of sledding and snow play, Lopina emphasizes that his creation is a budget-friendly, residential version of a snow resort. With a hill and a sled, neighbors don't need to venture far to enjoy winter activities in the comfort of their own homes.
Now in its fifth year of operation, Lopina's snow machine has become a neighborhood attraction, fostering a sense of community spirit. Text messages from friends and colleagues in the neighborhood eagerly anticipate the next snowfall, turning Lopina's backyard into a communal winter destination.
A Father's Joy Beyond the Snow
For Lopina, the snow machine is more than just a winter pastime for his kids. It's about creating joy and bringing neighbors together. Reflecting on the communal excitement, Lopina shares, "It's important to find joy in little things that you can do, even if it's running water through a nozzle in your backyard. It can turn into a magical Winter Wonderland."
Despite the physical effort required to operate the snow machine, Lopina finds immense satisfaction in seeing the smiles and hearing the laughter of his family and neighbors. The exhaustion the next day is a small price to pay for the joy he brings to the community.
In a world often moving too fast, Matt Lopina's homemade snow machine stands as a testament to the enchantment that can be created with a touch of ingenuity and the simple pleasures of winter fun.
Apparently, Matt has been doing this for a long time. It was also previously reported in 2020 that he built a snow machine for his children.
How to Make Snow at Home
Do you want to DIY a snow at home? Watch the video below and enjoy a winter fun with your kids even if there's no winter in your area!