'Round-Up' Benefits Local Nonprofits

They could have gone black-tie but decided on boots and jeans instead.

The Hernando Leadership Class of 2008 will host Hernando Roundup, a western-themed fundraiser at 5:30 p.m. this Saturday at Weeki Wachee Springs, 6131 Commercial Way.

Tickets are $60 per person.

The event will feature a barbecue dinner, cash bar, silent auction and country music from Brian Chytka and Jenny Rimmer.

Chytka, who was raised in Brooksville, took the "most promising male entertainer" award at the 2006 North American Country Music Association International Competition in Pigeon Forge, Tenn. Chytka and Rimmer also took "new country duo of the year" honors at the same event.

The auction will feature some 40 items, including a plasma television, laser printer, golf and spa packages and New Year's Eve accommodations at the RCI Gold Crown Resort in Branson, Mo.

The goal is to raise money for six local charities in a relaxed setting, said Barbara Newlin, a member of the leadership class.

"We were discussing having some sort of formal dinner, and said you know, let's do something fun and more casual," Newlin said. "The easier we make it for people to come, the more people will come."

Dress code is casual and western attire, of course, is welcome.

Leadership Hernando is an annual program offered by the Greater Hernando Chamber of Commerce to give participants a close-up look at the county's many facets, from industry and government to public safety and media.

A big part of the program is giving back to the community through fundraisers and sweat equity.

This year's class had a hard time deciding which charity to choose, so they picked six: Boys and Girls Club of Hernando; Healthy Families Pasco-Hernando; the National Alliance on Mental Illness; New Beginnings Youth Shelter; the POSSE Equestrian Program at The ARC of Nature Coast; and Rotary Centennial Park.

The class ripped out carpet and installed ceramic tile at the New Beginnings shelter. The group now has plans to take $4,000 from the Community Foundation of Hernando County to build a playground at the Boys and Girls Club's new site at Hillside Estates, the public housing complex in Brooksville.

The most sweat attendees will work up at Saturday's event is on the dance floor or practicing their lassoing skills on a fake bull or horse.

WHAT: Hernando Roundup! Fundraiser featuring barbecue, concert and silent auction.

WHEN: 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11.

WHERE: Weeki Wachee Springs, 6131 Commercial Way.

ADMISSION: $60 per person.

CONTACT: 585-7188.