BOISE, ID – The Boise Metro Chamber is pleased to announce that Five For Fighting front man John Ondrasik is confirmed as the keynote speaker for its 139th Annual Gala and Auction scheduled for Oct. 20, 2022 at Boise Centre. Ondrasik is a platinum-selling, Grammy-nominated artist, known for hits like “Superman (It’s Not Easy)” and “100 Years.” Ondrasik last addressed Chamber members at the 2015 Gala.

Recently, Ondrasik turned his attention and artistry toward the crisis in Ukraine, releasing a new single dedicated to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenski called “Can One Man Save the World?” The song has received hundreds of thousands internet views since it was posted in March.  Ondrasik’s personal note on his YouTube page describes what inspired him to write the song:
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“Like so many of you, I am inspired and in awe of President Zelensky, his wife Olena, and the Ukrainian people,” he wrote. “Their courage and determination in the face of the Russian onslaught gives hope and fortitude to all freedom loving people. In Zelensky, I sense we are witnessing a modern-day Winston Churchill. It may make you ask yourself; Can One Man Save The World?”

Five for Fighting later had an opportunity to film a music video for the song, performing, alongside the Ukraine National Symphony Orchestra, at the site of the Antonov An-225 Mriya bombing. The An-225 Mriya was the world's largest aircraft and a symbol of pride for Ukrainians. However, on Feb. 24, 2022, Russian forces bombed Antonov Airport during operations to take the airfield and destroyed the plane. Ultimately, Russian troops did take the airfield, but by April 2, Ukrainian forces had regained control following a large-scale Russian withdrawal from the Kyiv area.

Boise Metro Chamber CEO Bill Connors has been vocal about the Chamber’s support for the people of Ukraine since the first days of the invasion and says Ondrasik’s return to Boise is both timely and important to the Treasure Valley business community.

“We are happy to see John Ondrasik return to Boise for our Gala event,” said Connors. “John’s music has united America in times of crisis. His hit ‘100 Years’ unites generations, his hit ‘Superman’ became a national anthem of sorts after 9/11. Now John has released a new song, ‘Can One Man Change the World?’ about Ukrainian President Zelensky’s brave stand for democracy, to unite us once again. We expect to hear these songs performed with commentary from John at our Gala.” 

Tickets for members and their guests are available for $125 each. Tickets for non-members and their guests are $175 each. A VIP reception, including a photo with John Ondrasik, is available for an additional $100. Members of the media are invited to attend. Direct questions to Michael Freeman at mfreeman@boisechamber.org or (208) 472-5258. Visit the Boise Metro Chamber website for more information or to register. 

The Boise Metro Chamber hosted high bidders, sponsors, and donors from the Chamber's 2021 Annual Gala and Auction for a Post-Gala Summer Mixer at Hillcrest Country Club. The Gala auction features hundreds of fantastic items and experience packages donated by our members and staff, and serves as the Chamber's biggest fundraising opportunity. Funds raised help support the Chamber's programming, advocacy efforts, and events. This exclusive event featured hors d'oeuvres and  hosted bar overlooking Hillcrest's beautiful golf course to thank those who dug deep to show their support. Thanks to all who attended and participated in last year's Gala! 

The 139th Annual Gala and Auction is slated for Oct. 20 at Boise Centre. For more information or to register, click here.