HENDERSONVILLE — More than 1,000 people celebrated Oktober Family Fest at Immaculata Catholic School Oct. 11 while remembering the devastation of Tropical Storm Helene that cancelled last year’s celebration.
After the storm claimed lives, homes and infrastructure, the school became a relief distribution center for weeks during October 2024.
As Principal Margaret Beale noted, “We didn’t get to have last year’s Oktoberfest, but we still had a community event; it just looked a little different.”
A special ceremony during the festival recognized several individuals and organizations for assisting the relief effort. They included: Dan Ward, director of Properties and Risk Management for the Diocese of Charlotte; Dr. Gerry Carter, Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte chief executive officer; the City of Hendersonville; McNeely’s; Missionary of Charities sisters; El Paso,
Montano family; Indian Aroma; Camps Kahdalea and Chostanga; and St. Margret Mary Men’s Club, Slidell, Louisianna.
Fourth grader Eleanor Angel summed up the impact of the recipients. “They helped people feel better and see Christ,” she said.
“The honor is Catholic Charities’, the diocese’s, and parishes’ to bring relief to this area that was devastated,” Carter said. “A year later, it’s so moving.”
Oktober Family Fest is an annual fundraiser for the school. The eight-hour event offered everything from food and carnival rides to a silent auction and concluded with a performance by The Stipe Brothers.
— Provided by Jay Siltzer
