The Associated Press (July 7th 2006)

Shelton Donates $108,000 to Fire Victims

Blake Shelton handed a $108,000 check to state officials to help victims of a string of wildfires that destroyed hundreds of homes in Oklahoma.

Shelton, known for hits such as “Austin,'' “Ol' Red'' and “Some Beach,'' donated the proceeds from his “Rain Dance'' concert, which was held in his hometown of Ada.

He told Gov. Brad Henry and others Thursday that it was difficult watching TV footage and seeing the destruction of property of his fellow Oklahomans.

The 30-year-old country singer called himself ``just a guy that people call when they want to have a party and have a good time.''

“That's the one thing I guess I'm good at so we decided to do Rain Dance,'' he said.

Shelton said he was overwhelmed by the success of the event and planned more benefit concerts.

A resident of Tennessee for several years, Shelton said he plans to build a home in Oklahoma.