The Historic Silver Valley Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for its annual auction this coming Friday night and it looks like it’s going to be a wild night.

The “Animal House” themed night is set to be one of the biggest editions of the event ever, and event organizers Juli Zook and Colleen Rosson are looking to make it even bigger.

The annual chamber auction is vital for the chamber as it provides more than half the funding needed by the HSVCC for their events throughout the year.

“All of these events do some fundraising of their own, but it helps with events like the lighting festival, the farmers market, the Fourth of July, Silver Hoops and really any of the activities we put on or help with,” Rosson said.

Having a chamber of commerce is incredibly important for communities such as ours, Rosson said, as it can help keep businesses in the loop for events and keep the communities organized and working together toward a single vision.

“If you have a viable chamber that works for the businesses as a hub, you have a group that makes sure that the businesses and governmental entities are making as much progress for one another as possible, while making a successful community the goal for all groups,” Rosson said.

This year, the auction has several big-ticket items that will have bidders chomping at the bid (yeah, we went there), including a Toyota Prius, stay and play packages in Mexico, local items, gift baskets, and a lot more.

“We wanted to do something different this year so we went with the Animal House toga party theme,” Zook said. “We thought the idea of reliving your college years for one night without having to completely relive the years you were in college would be a lot of fun.”

There will be a gourmet selection of college themed food provided by Noah’s, a full bar, live music and as much partying as one could handle.

Tickets to the event are still available and are being sold at a reduced price of $30 per person or $50 per couple until Monday before they jump to their full prices.

Tickets include a full meal, one free drink, and each guest’s bid pass.

“For all the people who say there is never anything fun going on here in the Silver Valley, they should come out and have a good time with us at the auction,” Zook said. "And the theme may be Animal House toga party, but you don't have to stay strictly to togas. Wear anything college themed and you can be part of the costume contest."

The auction will be this Friday at Noah’s Loft and the doors open at 6 p.m.

For more information or to purchase tickets call the Historic Silver Valley Chamber of Commerce office at (208) 784-0821.

Don’t forget to have Ms. Zook show you how a proper keg stand is done!