Editor’s note: This story has been corrected to reflect how organizer Sara Pozonsky characterized Gov. Bill Walker’s political orientation. She said he was formerly a Republican but now an Independent. 

Last Friday, Alaska Gov. Bill Walker and Lt. Gov. Byron Mallott were in Kenai to attend the Governor’s Inaugural Ball held at the Old Carrs Mall.

Sara Pozonsky, co-chair for the Kenai Peninsula Inaugural Ball Committee, said more than 430 tickets to the Kenai event were sold. According to the Alaska Inaugural Ball website, no state funds are used to host the balls, which are currently held in more than half-a-dozen cities throughout Alaska.

At the ball, Pozonsky said Gov. Walker was very accessible and met with the people in attendance.

“He made himself available,” Pozonsky said. “He was so gracious. You really felt like he cared about the people that attended.”

Salmon and crab were donated by the Alaska Salmon Alliance, while Kenai Catering provided dinner. Kassik’s Brewery provided beer while a no-host bar was also available.

Pozonsky said throughout the night, Bunny Swan and the Mabrey Brothers played live music while people danced.

“The dance floor was packed and everyone danced,” said Pozonsky.

Notable politicians in attendance included Kenai Mayor Pat Porter, Soldotna City Council member Pete Sprague, Borough Mayor Mike Navarre and Alaska State Senator Peter Micciche.

Pozonsky said that because Gov. Walker is an Independent who used to be a Republican, and Lt. Gov. Mallott is a Democrat, people with various political leanings came together on Friday.

“This ticket — the Unity Ticket that they call it — really brought together a unique group of people that usually wouldn’t get together,” Pozonsky said. “People just got together and celebrated the moment. This may be a chance for great change. The room felt electric.”

Reach Ian Foley at ian.foley@peninsulaclarion.com.

Gov. Bill Walker and Lt. Gov. Byron Mallott were the guests of honor at the inaugural ball in Kenai Friday. (Photo by Caleb Kuehn)