PRESQUE ISLE – The organizing committee for the TD Banknorth 2006 Biathlon Junior World Championships is kicking off its fundraising effort in style, with a gala at Slopes Restaurant and Brewing Co. here.

In an attempt to raise more than $300,000 for the international event, which will be held at the Nordic Heritage Center in Presque Isle from Jan. 27 through Feb. 3, 2006, the committee will hold its Kickoff Fundraising Gala at 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 12.

Officials plan to use the money to “put Aroostook County permanently on the international biathlon map.” Officials said the gala event would allow local residents to make a financial contribution to the effort. To date, the committee has received significant financial support from the corporate community.

Organizers are asking residents to become Friends of the 2006 Biathlon Junior World Championships. A minimum donation of $100 entitles a donor and one guest to attend the gala, a casual dress affair.

For more information about the event, contact Melanie Stewart, event manager for the 2006 Biathlon Junior World Championships, at 227-7555.