Dodge Ridge Ski Resort held its All Mountain Challenge last weekend to benefit Habitat for Humanity, donating all proceeds to the organization.
The event featured multiple races for all ages and a food and fire festival consisting of a fantastic fireworks show and wine tasting for those who were of age. The weekend was full of entertainment all across the mountain with practice course runs on Friday for the two slalom races and two giant slalom races held on Saturday.
The first race was held on the Gentle Ben Run and the second on Ry’s Run.  The fireworks and fire show lit up the night sky at 4 p.m. at the Dodge Ridge Base shortly following the awards ceremony.  Sunday finished off the weekend with a Nordic and Snowshoe race, along with the Brewfest held in the afternoon.
The All Mountain Challenge could be enjoyed by all with a $40 fee for a single-day event pass that included entry and access to all race events for that day.  An extra $20 would give skiers and snowboarders access to the entire mountain.  Prior to Feb. 28, eventgoers could have had access to a VIP pass for $100, which allowed access to all events, race training clinics, BBQ lunch vouchers and wine and beer tasting.
All of the proceeds from the All Mountain Festival went directly to Habitat for Humanity, a non-profit organization founded in 1976 devoted to building simple, decent, affordable housing for the less fortunate all around the world.
“I don’t think everyone understands,” said Ed Preller, a convenience store clerk. “Dodge Ridge is such a focal point for our community and it benefits more than just the surrounding towns.”
The small surrounding towns of Dodge Ridge benefit greatly when snowfall and tourism are peaking.
“When Dodge (Ridge Ski Resort) does well, I do well,” said Andy Cohen, a local deli owner.  “Dodge Ridge really is the attraction that keeps so many local businesses around.”
Cohen considers Dodge Ridge to be a blessing. Anytime tourists go to Dodge Ridge, they circulate money into the local communities by staying at hotels, eating at restaurants, etc.
“If it wasn’t for Dodge, I wouldn’t have a business,” Cohen added.
On March 30, Dodge Ridge will be hosting its 4th Annual Spring Fling Golden Egg Hunt.  Children 11 and under are encouraged to participate for the chance of finding The Golden Egg, containing a 2013/2014 youth season pass.
On April 6, the grand finale of the 2012/2013 winter season will be held at Dodge Ridge, which will feature the Pond Skim competition.  Whether by ski, board, skim or swim, people come to take on the Dodge Ridge pond in their annual celebration.
Although the winter season is nearly over and springtime is around the corner, there are a few more events available to take part in and enjoy.  For more event information go to dodgeridge.com and click on “Events” at the top of the page.