A lighthearted wager between Mohawk and Harvey Norman Flooring, the exclusive Australian provider of Mohawk’s SmartStrand product line, recently led to a significant fundraiser for the United Way of Northwest Georgia.

The two companies staged a “Battle of the Ballads” singing showcase at the Dalton Golf and Country Club. Approximately 250 guests watched as Mohawk’s Steve Powers (svp r&d/flooring product development) and Harvey Norman’s Shaun McGovern (imports manager) competed for the title of best singer. The event raised more than $6,500 in contributions, including $1,500 when McGovern auctioned the Australian Rugby shirt he wore during the performance.

“I can honestly say that no one had ever given United Way the shirt off his back before, but Shaun’s generosity set a wonderful tone for the entire evening,” said Margaret Zeisig, United Way of Northwest Georgia’s director of community solutions.

“Harvey Norman is a very important customer for us,” added Michael Vermette, Mohawk svp, commercial and international business. “We wanted to make their visit to Dalton special, and we really expanded Steve’s bet into a total entertainment package.”