June 30, 2014 at 3:37 p.m.
High speeds equal high levels of excitement at Three Lakes Shootout Radar Run
High speeds equal high levels of excitement at Three Lakes Shootout Radar Run
Crowds gathered on the shore and on the lake were in awe of the boats as the event, a fundraiser for the Three Lakes Fire Department, was once again a resounding success.
What started as an event to raise funds for a second fire station has quickly grown to be a beloved yearly event that not only supports the department but gives the public something to look forward to every summer.
"It's a fundraiser for our fire department, which is an all volunteer fire department," event organizer Jim Leatzow said.
"We started it seven years ago and we did it initially to build a second firehouse, which we needed because of the tremendous distances people live away from town. In order to reduce response times, we needed that second firehouse and, because of this event, we now have that second firehouse. Insurance rates in that area have already dropped by a third thanks to the new building."
The new firehouse is up and running, but that doesn't mean there's no longer a need for the Shootout. Not only does it provide great entertainment for the people of Three Lakes and beyond, it also helps keep the new fire station stocked with the items it needs to keep the public safe.
"Now, we're doing this to outfit the second firehouse, to make sure it always has all of the supplies it needs," Leatzow said.
As much as the new station has done for the public, it was the public - those who attended the event and the volunteers that help pull it off - that made the new fire house possible, according to Leatzow.
"It's tremendous. This is completely a volunteer effort. No one makes any money on this other than the fire department. Thanks to all of the people that volunteer to help make this possible and all of the people that come out to support it, it's become a successful event," he said.
"We've got approximately 75 volunteers that help out and the people always come out to watch which is great to see. All I can say is it's an all-town effort that's helped this become one of the largest events in Three Lakes and it's all for a great cause."
Those who attended the event said they enjoyed themselves immensely, though it was hard for them to decide if it was more fun watching the races or knowing that they were supporting their own local heroes.
"It's a great show. The kids always love it. They always wonder why we can't go that fast when we're out in our boat, which can be a tricky conversation, but it's always a great time here," Sharon Bell said.
"And knowing that anytime we buy food here or get some snacks or something like that, knowing it's going to support the guys that volunteer their time to keep the town safe, that makes it even better. Volunteer firefighters deserve everyone's utmost respect and to be able to come out here and have a great time while showing them that we do respect and support them, it really just doesn't get any better than that."
Marcus Nesemann may be reached at [email protected].
Comments:
You must login to comment.