St. John’s biggest fundraiser underway

Gala decorators Maria Avila, Anne Tuggle, Kathy Buchheite and Tracy Boyajien make baskets at St. John for the Gala.

Relax the day away in the merry old land of Oz.

St. John the Baptist Catholic School is holding its 12th annual Benefit Gala Saturday, Feb. 26 at the Von Braun Center in the North Hall.

This year’s theme is An Evening in Oz, a setting inspired by the popular book and movie The Wizard of Oz.

The benefit gala is St. John’s largest event, with an average of 600 people attending and around $50,000 being raised every year.

“The money we raise will be used to improve the school, upgrade technology, bring in new curriculum and some money goes to athletic programs,” said Holly Griggs, gala chair. “It’s also used to continue to maintain the school and the school environment.”

The gala is an event for adults. Dinner and complementary wine and beer are included in the ticket price.

“It’s great to see support from parents and parishioners,” said Anne Tuggle, who is helping to make baskets for the auction. “The generosity of the parents and the community is unbelievable.”

There will also be a silent and live auction at the beginning and end of the gala.

The local band Juice will perform live.

Tickets are sold in pairs and are $160 per pair. They can be purchased on website or tickets at the school.

“It’s an elegant event,” Griggs said. “It’s an evening of fun, fellowship and fundraising.”

Doors open for the silent auction at 5:30 p.m. The gala is expected to conclude at 6:30 p.m.

“It’s a wonderful event and it’s for a wonderful cause,” Griggs said. “There’s nothing more important for our children and their education and we encourage everyone to come out and have fun and we’ll raise the money while we’re doing it.”

For questions or more information, e-mail BenefitGala@StJohnb.com or call 256-722-0772.