Snowshoe Extravaganza raises money for Hurley 4th of July fireworks

GILE, Wis. - Organizers of the Hurley 4th of July fireworks held their second annual fundraising Snowshoe Extravaganza Saturday afternoon on the Gile Flowage.

A total of 144 race participants showed up to take on the powder in their snowshoes.

This year the Fireworks Committee added a bonfire and music at the Gile Park, with cooperation of Montreal city officials and fire department members. The Hurley Fire Department also helped.

Rita Franzoi, event director, said they added a Family Fun Night on Friday evening this year. This included ice skating and snowshoeing for the kids.

Franzoi said a dozen kids joined in the fun Friday night and everyone enjoyed a little skating, snowshoeing, hot chocolate and cookies.

Franzoi said they hope the grow participation in the Family Night next year with the addition of another type of winter activity. She thanked the Hurley K-12 School for loaning its snowshoes for the kids to use.

Oganizers called Saturday's snowshoe race a huge success. The parking lot was packed before the race with people enjoying the music and bonfire.

The first participants to cross the finish line were Chrissy Samardich, Mark Samardich and Abby Samardich. They all crossed the finish line together.

The fun continued Saturday afternoon and into the evening at the Iron County Memorial Building. According to Franzoi, they estimated 200 people attended the event.

There was live music and food for race participants and the community.

There were also 24 dart teams which participated in a tournament at the Iron County Memorial Building.

Organizers asked people to mark their calendars for the third annual Snowshoe Fest, set for Feb. 6, 2016.