UKRANIAN RELIEF

When it came time to pick a beneficiary for its next-to-last Lenten fish fry this year, Knights of Columbus in Owatonna looked well beyond the borders of its own community.  
During the April 8 event at the Columbian Center on Elm Street, they raised funds for a national drive providing food, clothing, shelter, and other supplies to the people of Ukraine. The Knights served about 400 people, with a free-will donation as admission.  
Randy Balausky, who worked the ticket table with Greg Nelson, said the group chose the Ukraine Solidarity Fund, organized by the national Knights of Columbus, for one important reason. 
“We didn’t want a middleman or administrative fees or anything like that,” he said. “We wanted 100% to go to the cause.”  
“The money gets funneled from us and goes right to those people,” Nelson added. “We’re here to help people help people, and what better way?” 
According to the charity’s website, more than $10 million has already been raised to support refugees in Ukraine.  
Across from where Balausky and Nelson took checks and cash donations, the Catholic Daughters of Owatonna sold cookies, rolls, pies, and other baked treats to support the cause. Philomena Seykora said the group is part of the largest Catholic women’s organization in the world and draws from area Catholic churches.  
More than 100 members brought items to the event, enough to keep two sale tables full all evening long.  
“Our motto is unity and charity,” Seykora said. “We’re looking to help our community.”  
The final 2022 Lenten fish fry will be held Friday from 5-7 p.m., at the Columbian Center, 820 South Elm St. Volunteers serve baked or fried fish, mashed potatoes and gravy, cole slaw, veggies, and a dinner roll.  
Purchase advance tickets from any 4th Degree member, from Duane Ludewig 507-676-470, Greg Nelson 507-676-1748, Laverne Klecker 507-456-6738, and at the Hall.