On Friday, December 12th, 2025, the Laurentian Chamber of Commerce hosted the 16th Annual Gary Carlson Curling Funspiel at the Range Recreation Civic Center, home to Curl Mesabi curling club.

We had another great turnout with 32 teams participating in this year’s event including new and longstanding members.

The atmosphere during this friendly-competition is unlike any other event we host and allows business professionals a relaxed environment to bond with other organizations and create new memories with their team. It is also an excellent opportunity for businesses to introduce clients to members whose services complement their needs, creating a space for referrals and growing our community. The Funspiel is a great way to get to know this cold-climate sport, even if a person has never played before, and continues to draw a mix of first-timers and veteran curlers.

We appreciate all the efforts from our volunteers, ambassadors, and sponsors to make this event a fun-tastic time. Everything from printing done by W.A. Fisher to publishing ads and updates by the Hometown Focus - this event highlights the collaboration it takes to make our community thrive. The Curl Mesabi curling club volunteered their time preparing the ice and resurfacing as well as providing coffee and bar service during the event. Guests were greeted with a plethora of pastries from SuperOne Foods, provided by Virginia Co-op Credit Union. Essentia Health graciously sponsored lunch from Bobcat’s Lunchbox, where participants received exciting updates from the presenting sponsor U.S. Steel.

The crowd favorite raffle drawings featured prizes from Northland Constructors, Lake Country Power, Edward Jones - Amber Heinle, Eshquaguma Country Club, J&M Pet Services, Super One Liquor, L&M Supply Company, Hideaway Bar & Grill - Babbitt, Tricon, Victaulic, The Forge Social Haus, Superior Rock Bit, Miners National Bank, and NewRange Copper Nickel.

Out of the 32 teams that participated this year, the event ended with multiple ties and a throw off to determine the teams for the championship match. Rising from the group of competitive curlers, this year's champion, First National Bank of Gilbert took home the traveling trophy, the first-place prize donated by Giants Ridge and Range Office Supply, and of course the ever coveted bragging rights. Runner up this year was DG Supply, who took home a gift from Giants Ridge and pride in their good sportsmanship.

We look forward to another spirited event in 2026!