January 21, 2016
Contributed Art/ABC 7
Hawthorne, N.J. resident Michael Jannicelli covered his lawn with artificial snow after December saw record-high temperatures statewide.
In what has been a mild winter thus far across the Delaware Valley, one New Jersey man decided he couldn't wait for this weekend's approaching storm to enjoy the view of a white lawn.
As December came and went without a hint of frozen precipitation, Hawthorne resident Michael Jannicelli got to work constructing a machine that creates powdery snow using water, compressed air and what he described as "magic," according to ABC 7. The snow gun can produce as much as an inch per hour if the weather and humidity cooperate.
Jannicelli, a landscaper who works at the Campgaw ski area during the wintertime, has covered his yard with nearly a foot of snow since early January. He told NorthJersey.com that his work at the ski area was an inspiration to build a machine that could be used at his own residence.
"I've loved the snow since I was a child and this has been a dream of mine for many years," Jannicelli said. "With my experience and business, I was able to buy the equipment. I have an obligation to the town now to have snow all winter long."
Neighbors have given Jannicelli positive reviews on his seasonal Winterland and it's been a hit with his 11-year-old son, who's taken the opportunity to get a few snowball fights going. Jannicelli has even reached out to a local elementary school to plan a science field trip at his house.
In the future, Jannicelli hopes to be a provider of snow to churches and other groups in and around Hawthorne, especially when high temperatures interfere with the holiday spirit. By Monday, however, large parts of New Jersey will likely have all the snow they can handle for a couple of weeks.
