In the heart of Fairbanks, Alaska, a car wash is transforming into a Halloween wonderland, offering a unique and spine-tingling experience for locals and visitors alike. Splash&Dash, a trusted name in the community, has been hosting an annual Halloween-themed car wash for the past five years, and the event has only grown in popularity with each passing year.

A Haunting Transformation

Imagine driving through a tunnel of terror, surrounded by cackling statues and flashes of lightning, as a crew of costumed menaces lurks in the shadows. This is the reality that awaits those who dare to enter Splash&Dash's Halloween car wash. The east location manager, Sam Makkar, has overseen the transformation, meticulously crafting a spooky atmosphere that is sure to delight and terrify in equal measure.

From the moment you approach the car wash, the sense of anticipation builds. The false flames of the cackling statues cast an eerie glow, setting the stage for the thrilling experience that lies ahead. Makkar and his team have spared no expense in creating an immersive and unforgettable Halloween spectacle, with every detail carefully considered to ensure maximum impact.

The sheer scale of the decorations is truly impressive, with a 7-foot-tall animatronic werewolf taking center stage. Makkar's daughter spent the better part of a day meticulously setting up this towering figure, a testament to the dedication and passion that goes into making this event a success.

A Community Celebration

Splash&Dash's Halloween car wash is more than just a spooky attraction; it's a celebration of community spirit. Makkar explains that the event is a way to give back to the town, with a portion of the proceeds going to local charity fundraisers. "To make a little bit of fun for the town, to enjoy with the kids and have a little fun that's safe," he says, underscoring the event's focus on bringing people together in a safe and festive environment.

The response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive, with Makkar noting that his regular customers have become like family. "I've been getting a lot of my customers loving what we do here, me and my kids and my wife and everybody around the shop," he shares, highlighting the sense of camaraderie and shared excitement that permeates the event.

Last year, the Halloween car wash saw an impressive turnout, with around 400 vehicles passing through the bay. This year, Makkar and his team are anticipating an even greater response, as word of the event's popularity continues to spread throughout the region.

A Spooktacular Experience

From the moment you enter the car wash tunnel, you'll be transported into a world of Halloween magic. Clouds of fog, flashes of lightning, and a menagerie of inflatable black cats and animatronic monsters will greet you, creating an atmosphere that is both thrilling and enchanting.

The costumed crew, donning their masks and costumes, will add to the sense of unease, as they lurk in the shadows, ready to startle and delight. Makkar admits that the process of setting up the event was no easy feat, but the end result is a truly spooktacular experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who witness it.

Whether you're a local looking to embrace the Halloween spirit or a visitor seeking a unique and unforgettable adventure, Splash&Dash's Halloween car wash is a must-visit destination. So, gather your courage, hop in your car, and prepare to emerge with a clean vehicle and a heart full of Halloween cheer.

Food City, a leading regional grocery chain, has long been dedicated to addressing the pressing issue of hunger in its communities. This holiday season, the company is taking its efforts to new heights with its annual Friends and Pets in Need Holiday Food Drive, a comprehensive initiative that aims to provide vital support to both human and animal populations in need.

Nourishing Neighbors and Nurturing Pets: Food City's Holistic Approach to Combating Hunger

Tackling Hunger Head-On

Hunger is a persistent challenge that affects communities across the region, particularly during the colder winter months when the need for sustenance and warmth is heightened. Food City recognizes the urgency of this issue and has made it a priority to address it through its various hunger relief programs. The Friends and Pets in Need Holiday Food Drive, which runs from November 1 to December 31, is a testament to the company's commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of those struggling with food insecurity.

According to the latest data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, nearly 38 million Americans, including 12 million children, experienced food insecurity in 2020. This alarming statistic underscores the critical role that initiatives like Food City's holiday drive play in providing a lifeline to those in need. By partnering with local hunger relief organizations and animal shelters, the company is able to channel its resources and community support to where it is needed most, ensuring that families and their furry companions have access to the nourishment they require.

Extending a Helping Paw

While the primary focus of the Friends and Pets in Need Holiday Food Drive is on addressing human hunger, Food City recognizes the importance of also supporting the well-being of our four-legged friends. The company has made a concerted effort to include pet food donations as part of the drive, acknowledging the vital role that companion animals play in the lives of many individuals and families.

According to the American Humane Association, approximately 6.3 million companion animals enter animal shelters in the United States each year. Many of these animals face the risk of being surrendered or abandoned due to their owners' inability to afford their care, including the provision of adequate food. By collecting and distributing pet food donations through the holiday drive, Food City is helping to alleviate this burden and ensure that our furry friends receive the sustenance they need to thrive.

A Community-Driven Effort

The success of the Friends and Pets in Need Holiday Food Drive is a testament to the power of community engagement and the collective impact that can be achieved when individuals and organizations come together for a common cause. Food City has made it easy for its customers to participate in the drive, offering specially marked bags containing non-perishable food items and pet food products for purchase at all of its store locations.

By providing these pre-packaged donation options, Food City is making it simple and convenient for its customers to contribute to the cause. The company's commitment to ensuring that 100% of the collected products go directly to local hunger relief organizations and animal shelters further demonstrates its dedication to maximizing the impact of the drive and ensuring that the donations reach those who need them most.

A Tradition of Giving

Food City's ongoing hunger relief initiatives have been a resounding success, and the company is hopeful that this year's Friends and Pets in Need Holiday Food Drive will set a new record in terms of the amount of support and donations received. The drive is a testament to the company's unwavering commitment to its communities and its belief that no one, whether human or animal, should go without the basic necessities of life.

As the holiday season approaches, Food City's president and chief executive officer, Steven C. Smith, encourages the community to come together and support this important cause. "Food City's hunger relief initiatives have been a tremendous success, and we are hoping to set a new record with this year's drive to help our neighbors and furry friends in need," said Smith. "By working together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who are struggling and ensure that everyone in our community has access to the nourishment they need to thrive."

With its deep roots in the region and its unwavering commitment to serving its communities, Food City is poised to continue its legacy of making a positive impact through initiatives like the Friends and Pets in Need Holiday Food Drive. As the company looks to the future, it remains steadfast in its mission to be a force for good, nourishing both bodies and spirits, and ensuring that no one is left behind.