Winterfest emcee Gregory Bondy making his way to the stage. Photo credit: Dr. Greg Birch
PORT ANGELES — The Hurricane Ridge Winter Sports Education Foundation raised more than $80,000 during its annual Winterfest fundraiser on Saturday, Nov. 23, at the Vern Burton Community Center. The event drew 380 attendees who enjoyed a variety of activities, auctions, and locally sponsored food and beverages.
Sponsors included Jamestown Seafood, Upper Valley Charcuterie, Kokopelli Grill, DA Davidson, and Fogtown Coffee. Guests participated in a silent auction sponsored by POE, a live auction sponsored by Country Aire, and raffles, including a $1,000 cash raffle sponsored by First Fed.
Nearly $15,000 was raised through this year’s Fund-a-Need paddle raise, which will provide free three-week group ski or snowboard lessons for children 17 and under in Levels 1, 2, and 3.
Dan Peacock, a former Ski Patrol member from 1972 to 1997 and a key figure in building the Ski Patrol’s “Ice Station Zebra” headquarters, was honored as the Guest of Honor.
The Hurricane Ridge Ski and Snowboard Area, now managed by a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, uses event proceeds to support its programs. These include the 4th and 5th grade “Ski for Free” programs, volunteer ski patrol training and equipment, instructor training, and ski area improvements.