PORT TOWNSEND — Two successful fundraisers over the weekend showed how Port Townsend antes up and supports local enterprises, giving when it counts.
On Saturday night, KPTZ-FM celebrated its first year on the air with a loud, raucous party at the Jefferson County Fairgrounds, capping off a four-day pledge drive that raised enough to install air conditioning in its studio.
The station had a goal of $15,000 and just exceeded that amount, according to station manager Kris Shapiro.
On Friday night, the Jefferson Community School took over the Northwest Maritime Center to hold its first fundraising gala: an auction that raised $38,677 to support its experiential programs.
“The evening was a great success,” said communications and development coordinator Betsy Carlson.
“People had fun, and we made our $20,000 goal and almost made it to my dream goal of $40,000.”
At the auction, attendees were asked to dress up as their favorite explorers, and many arrived in costume.
The KPTZ event featured two bands and two dance contests, and the facility was decorated with several murals that were created for the occasion.
“It was a blast,” Shapiro said.
“People rallied and we made our goal.”
Volunteer coordinator Lee Erickson said she approached several local businesses to supply door prizes, “and people asked what they could do before I even stopped asking the question.
She said a high percentage of people calling into the station to contribute had not pledged before.
The air conditioning is essential for the station’s operation as last summer’s heat was responsible for at least two equipment failures, Erickson said.
“Last year it was 50 degrees out but it was 80 degrees in the studio,” she said.
“Once we get air conditioning, we will be able to broadcast with no problems when it gets hot.”
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Jefferson County Reporter Charlie Bermant can be reached at 360-385-2335 or charlie.bermant@peninsuladailynews.com.
