27.0°

Autumn is a time for fun and fund raising on the Kenai Peninsula. From Black Tie events, to country western shoot 'em up and scalp 'em events, non-profit organizations show their creativity in showing the community a good time while supporting their community service programs. At the Kenai Chamber of Commerce annual beer and wine tasting event this year, a loyal and generous supporter of most every civic organization in the twin river cities, Scott Hamann of Metal Magic, put his scalp up for a challenge if the Chamber could raise enough money. "Tina asked me if I'd be willing to give up my hair to raise some money for the Chamber. I really support and appreciate the Chamber. It's a great organization and anything I can do to support their efforts on all our behalves, I told her sure. If they could raise $5,000, I'd be happy to shave my head bald and donate the hair to Locks of Love for cancer patients," said Hamann.

"It was definitely the highlight of the evening!" reported Tina Baldridge, "We not only met the $5,000 challenge, but we raised $6500 for the Chamber in addition to his lovely hair that will make someone feel much happier about their battle with cancer through Locks of Love. Scott went home completely bald! What a loyal member of the chamber! We are so thankful to him and his wife Cheryl for their support. Even in these tough economic times, our fundraiser was a great success and we had a fantastic event," said Baldridge. Food for the AK Corral was prepared by Charlotte's Kenai Catering; country music by Mark LaBrelle got the toes tapping for over 200 guests dressed in their best western attire. "We also had great auction items thanks to our generous donors in the community, and literally from all over the State of Alaska. Special thanks to all our volunteers and the Kenai Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors who put this year's event over the top," added Tina.

Winner of KCC costume contest this year was Brendyn Shiflea of First National Bank Alaska, who left taking home a $50 gift card to Paradisos restaurant in Kenai. Shiflea was dressed as a cowboy riding a bull. For more information about Kenai Chamber of Commerce events and the upcoming Christmas Comes to Kenai festivities and popular electric light parade on November 27th, log on to www.kenaichamber.org.