Lakeside readies for annual Winterfest

By JACOB DORAN / Bigfork Eagle

As the week progresses, the Lakeside-Somers Chamber of Commerce Winterfest Committee is ramping up its efforts to prepare both communities for this Saturday's 10th Annual Winterfest, promising a full day of family-friendly fun and entertainment.

As always, Winterfest activities will take place in Somers, Lakeside, Lake Mary Ronan and on Blacktail Mountain, with events ranging from the 10th Annual Sporting Clays competition to the Sixth Annual Family Cup Ski and Snowboard Races and the Eighth Annual Snowmobile Poker Run from Lake Mary Ronan to Blacktail and back again.

Kicking off Saturday's events, Winterfest enthusiasts will have their choice of eating a hearty pancake breakfast at the Lakeside Chapel (7-10 a.m.) or in the cafeteria at Blacktail Mountain Lodge (8:30-10:30 a.m.). Proceeds from the Lakeside Chapel breakfast will benefit the church's youth group activities, while the Blacktail Mountain breakfast will benefit the volunteer ski patrol.

One of the more popular Winterfest events, the Sporting Clays competition will get under way at 10 a.m., but contestants are encouraged to arrive early to sign up and get supplies. The shoot is sponsored, each year, by Tom Sliter of Sliter's Ace Lumber and Building Supply and assisted by Ed Lasater of Kalispell, who supplies the stands and equipment.

The competition is held on the grounds of the old store, on the outskirts of Somers, with 8 separate stations to challenge even the best of shooters. Each year, Lasater's towers and shooters fire off between 60 and 80 50-shot rounds—3,000 to 4,000 targets—for competitors, during Winterfest, each one designed to follow a different pattern of movement.

Rex Brown traditionally mans a large tent with wood stove, where shooters can warm up and grab some extra shells. The cost is $20 per round or $30 for each father-son team, Shells can be purchased at the tent.

Hand warmers, cider and snacks are free to contestants, and coffee is provided by Montana Coffee Traders.

The 6th Annual Family Cup Ski & Snowboard Races promise to be another well-attended event. The Family Cup races have grown considerably, drawing parents, grandparents and children with a variety of competitions that allow family members to team up against other families.

Registration for the races begins at 9 a.m. at the Blacktail Mountain Lodge. The races themselves take place between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. and start on Emmons Ridge. An award ceremony will be held at Muley's at 4 p.m.

Those who wish to enjoy a round of snow golf will find three separate locations to try their hand at, including Del's Bar in Somers, the Vista Linda on Boon Road and Joe Blogz in Lakeside. Competitors will play three holes at each location, starting at 1 p.m. and finishing at 3 p.m.

Following the day's events, Tamarack Ale House & Grill will be serving up a barbecue feast, featuring burgers, brats and a full pig roast. Live music will be provided by Big Daddy and the Bluenotes, featuring the popular vocal talent of Kate Lynch.

As usual, the party will feature a variety of raffle prizes, to be drawn throughout the evening, including a Kokanee Snow Board sponsored by Muley's and a mountain bike sponsored by Coca-Cola.

"It's going to be a great day," Winterfest chairman Francois Zanni said. "Everyone loves Winterfest. It's a great opportunity for families to spend the day together and take advantage of the winter weather. You just about couldn't ask for more ideal conditions than what we've been having."