The major annual fall fundraiser for St. Mary’s Catholic Church is slated for Oct. 20 at the church.
The Oktoberfest Fundraiser is the fifth annual dinner, dancing and auction in German-themed tradition. Fundraised monies go toward general operating costs.
“It’s basically a fundraiser used to equip our kitchen and to pay down our mortgage,” explained Rick Gelowitz, chair of the fundraising committee.
“It’s open not just to parishioners of St. Mary’s, but to anybody in and around the community — everybody is most welcome to come out and join us.”
With cocktail hour kicking off at 6 p.m., a traditional hearty dinner of German fare will be served at 7 p.m., followed by dancing to the Brabec Brothers Band.
Gelowitz said the community has really stepped up to the plate this year — Cochrane Toyota donated a used vehicle to be auctioned off for the live auction portion of the evening.
“The community has been really generous with donating items for both the live and silent auctions — there are a lot of great items up for bids,” he said. “We hope to reach full capacity, but tickets are still available.”
Last year, some 300 people attended the event. Gelowitz estimates 250 tickets have already been sold; if not sold-out by the end of the week, the remaining tickets will be available at the door for $60 each.
St. Mary’s has more than 100 years of history serving the Cochrane area and is currently overseen by Father Bill Corcoran. The church takes pride in its strong western roots and extensive history with pioneers, settlers and ranching families surrounding the foothills area.
Located at 100 River Heights Drive, people can learn more about the church at stmaryscochrane.ca or by phoning 403-932-2944.
For tickets to Octoberfest this weekend, contact Gelowitz at 403-946-4059 or [email protected].
