Homer Alaska - News

For a summer with few sunny days, Saturday turned out to be an exception. Participants of the first Hospice of Homer fun run weren't complaining — especially Darlene Hildebrand, hospice executive director.

"The weather turned out beautifully," said Hildebrand.

So did the 5K non-timed event, with 59 participants between the ages of 7 and 75 enjoying a route that began at Hospice of Homer offices on East End Road, and continued to Bear Creek Winery. The event raised $1,500.

"We were really, really pleased with the turnout," said Hildebrand. "People seemed to have a really good time and hung around for a long time."

Small wonder with the winery creating a finish line that included the typical containers of water and Gatorade, but also platters of crackers, cheeses, meats, vegetables, fruits and sweet treats. Also available were samples of a mead made by the winery in honor of the fun run. Bottles of the mead are available for sale.

The run was held in memory of Val Kirsis, a 46-year-old Homer runner who died in 2010, shortly after he qualified for the Boston Marathon. His family — wife Lise, daughters Katie and Megan and son Joren — were among the runners.

Debbie Oudiz, formerly of California, gave the event high praise.

"It was brilliant to do a destination run, especially with the incredible destination of the Bear Creek Winery," said Oudiz. "It was much more than I expected. It was heartwarming ... to be recognized as a hospice supporter. I felt honored to be involved and will do it again next year."

At 7 p.m. Sept. 12, Hospice of Homer will benefit from a production of "A Comedy Cocktail Party," produced by Sally Oberstein. The musical comedy spoofs old TV favorites, placing them in a Homer setting. Performances during the summer are dedicated to supporting eight Homer nonprofits. The performance is at Alice's Champagne Palace. Tickets are $28 and can be purchased at the door; however, reservations are recommended and can be made by calling 235-6909.

Hospice of Homer Fun Run organizers — Vanessa Bale, volunteer; Darlene Hildebrand, executive director; Lise Kirsis, board president; and Christine Griffard, board member — enjoy the sunshine at the start of Saturday's event.

Also coming up for Hospice of Homer:

• "End of life "volunteer training, Homer Senior Center, Nov. 6, 7, 9, 12, 13, 14,16 and 23;

• Fifth annual Hospice of Homer Preparing for the Holidays fundraiser, tickets are limited, Alice's Champagne Palace, 6:30 p.m., Nov. 10.

For more information, call 235-6899 or visit www.hospiceofhomer.org.

For more information, call 235-6899 or visit www.hospiceofhomer.org.

McKibben Jackinsky can be reached at mckibben.jackinsky@homernews.com.