No dinner plans for this Saturday? How about a plate full of slow-roasted, wood smoked pulled pork with all the fixings, finished off with a night of good entertainment?
That's what's in store for the second annual pig roast in support of South Central Cancer Resource (SCCR).
What started as a decade-long yearly tradition among family and friends turned into something much bigger last year after circumstances led Marlin Fehr to start thinking outside the box.
"A couple of years ago, a good friend of mine was diagnosed with cancer, and I started to think that we could potentially change it into some kind of fund raiser with a band - that type of event," he explained. "Another year went by, and a family member was diagnosed with cancer and so, I started thinking that we really needed to get this done."
Marlin ran the idea by a friend, who is a member of the Altona Elks, and says the organization quickly jumped on board to help organize the first event, which took place last year, in a matter of a few short months. A member of local band, The Pylons, also happened to overhear the conversation and offered up their talents for the evening.
That inaugural fund raiser ended up generating over $11,000 thanks to a combination of ticket sales and donations submitted to SCCR representatives that were in attendance.
With this year's dinner happening in just a few days, Marlin and the Elks are looking to recapture that energy and, with a year to plan this time around, they've made some changes in hopes of making the event even bigger and better.
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Pulled pork is still on the menu, however, instead of roasting an entire hog, Marlin is opting for Boston Butts.
"It's easier to cook for that amount of people and the meat is more consistent, making for a better pulled pork," he explained.
The location has also changed to The Commons Barn in Neubergthal, offering more room to fit a larger crowd, including outdoor space for people to sit back in lawn chairs and enjoy their meal and the music, again provided by the Pylons, in the fresh summer air.
"We'll be playing everything from country music to southern rock - CCR, The Eagles, ZZ Top, Alan Jackson, Johnny Cash," explained band member, Ray Schroeder.
The evening will, however, mark the stage debut of new band member, Chris Siemens, on the guitar.
In addition, representatives from SCCR will be on hand to accept donations and visit with the crowd, filling them in on the impressive work they do.
"South Central Cancer Resource strives to improve the lives of both their clients and their families through their battle with cancer by providing transportation and accommodation assistance, wigs and head coverings, skin screening clinics, radon awareness and testing, and wellness programs," explained Michelle Sawatzky, a member of the Altona Elks.
"A majority of people can relate to someone they know that is struggling with cancer," she added. "And to assist through contribution to a great organization, like SCCR, helps people who need it."
And thanks to the generosity of businesses across the region, a stack of prizes will be up for grabs through a silent auction and raffle.
Doors open at 5 p.m. with dinner at 6 p.m.
Get your tickets today at the Altona Co-op Gas Bar or by contacting an Elks member by emailing altonaelks447@gmail.com
With files from Zack Driedger