United Way’s Oktoberfest: Brats, Bingo, Beer, and Polka Music!

By Samantha Holzman

Oktoberfest season is underway and there’s a new one debuting in Ashland. Mark your calendars for this Saturday, October 7th because the United Way of Ashland County has a unique event coming your way at the Ashland Golf Club!

Executive Director Stacy Schiemann said, “We were talking about what would be new and different for United Way, not even just Ashland County, and new ways to add to our special events. Somebody mentioned that they had heard a great polka band this summer and that it was just fun. So what could we pair with that? We decided to do an Oktoberfest and add that unique twist to it!”

There will be a brat bar, pierogi bar, bavarian bar with pretzels, German chocolate cake, and seasonal mixed drinks. You can look forward to the beer tasting with beer from local breweries and of course, bingo!

Stacy said, “We wanted to reach people who haven’t been to our events. We’re trying to reach a new group of people in a fun way to let them know what United Way is about but also have a good time. I think it’s a fun way to experience Shanks and the Golf Club also.”

So why is this Oktoberfest great for the Ashland Community? Stacy said, “I think it’ll be such a fun way to get out and socialize in a different way. Sometimes in a small town, people think there’s not a lot of things to do. We wanted to do something that was fun and different, with the beer tasting, and the bingo, and the polka music. It’s just a way to get out and be in the community, supporting a good cause and having fun at the same time.”

“It’s our first year so we know going in that we’re going to have to work out some kinks. So we hope that everyone just has fun and gives good feedback and we’ll make it even better next year. We would also like to thank our sponsors - we’re always thankful for them and the support that they and the community have given us.”

Schedule:

5:30-7:00 Beer Tasting (featuring Veteran BrewHouse and Phoenix Brewing Co.)

6:00-6:45 Dinner

6:45-8:00 Bingo

8:00-8:40 Polka Music

8:40-9:00 Live Auction

9:00 50/50 Drawing

9:00-9:30 Polka Music

Auction items include OSU vs Michigan State tickets, AU football club seats, an overnight stay and restaurant gift card for Landoll’s Mohican castle, and much more! $25 at the door. Spots are limited. This is an adult event, please leave your young children at home. For more information, visit www.uwashlandoh.org.

Address: Ashland Golf Club,1333 Center Street, Ashland, OH 44805

United Way funds 13 different partner agencies within our community, which totals 27 programs. Their sole focus is to fundraise and then provide funding to support programs that address income, health and education needs of the Ashland community.