 The big brainer JC's ice fishing extravaganza is nearly upon us as today those who plan on competing tomorrow began to drill their holes and get ready for the event. Our Taylor Archer has more. Drilling began at 10 a.m. this morning as anglers and volunteers began to prep for the big event. Yesterday we set up all the tents, we got our little village started, and today we are drilling 20,000 holes on the ice and getting all the final preparations taken care of. Last week the ice was measured 20 inches thick. Since then it's increased another 2 inches, which has only added to the excitement, but those who plan on coming out are warned that it is slippery out there. I think it's probably 22 inches now. It is very slippery. Obviously you can see we did have snow last week with the rain and the warm weather. It made it a skating rink. But the weather looks promising this year and the JC's have added a couple new attractions for anglers and spectators. Weather is fantastic. We have added a couple things. We actually are going to have a beer garden out here this year for the first time ever. So please bring your own, but we also will have some for sale as well on the ice. It's beautiful today, so my guess, we might get a few more spectators. Not many, probably fishermen, but spectators. The excitement has only increased with the event nearly upon us. I'm waiting for 10,000 people to come out here and get the show started. Excited to be on the ice with that many people and it's just a fun time and a good experience to see what kind of characters we have show up. The spectators and anglers are encouraged to bring their ice cleats. Inbrainer Taylor Archer, Lakeland News. The competition officially kicks off at noon tomorrow. If you've enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to Lakeland Public Television.