The spirit of the Old West rode into Ahavah Cottage on March 27, but it wasn’t gold the “cowpokes” were after—it was the future of their children.
Celebrating its 12th year, the annual Tribute to Trinity fundraiser transformed the local venue of Ahavah Cottage into a bustling frontier saloon, complete with 10-gallon hats, flannel, and a community-wide display of unconditional love. Under the theme “Ranches and Roots,” the event served as a powerful reminder of the school’s deep-seated foundations in faith and family.
For Mariah Wedrickas, a parent who stepped up to help lead the charge this year, the event was the culmination of a year-long journey. “Planning started soon after last year’s event,” Wedrickas said, noting that monthly meetings eventually turned into weekly sprints. “The theme came to us quite naturally considering many of us are farmers. It’s been amazing to be part of this at Trinity. All our efforts will help the students and staff in so many great ways.”
The generosity was evident before the first boot stepped through the door. Of the 13 tables set for the 104 attendees, 10 had already been snagged at the VIP price. As guests parked their wagons and stallions, excitement peaked early with a gun raffle for a Winchester Wildcat Combo S, which sold out all 52 chances in record time.
Festivities kicked off with a lively social hour featuring themed refreshments from Ahavah Drops. Guests bellied up to the bar for signature cocktails like the “Trinity Ridge” and the “Ranch Water”—the latter of which the staff playfully assured folks contained no actual ranch dressing, despite the rustic name. The official start of the evening was heralded by the sharp chime of a house bell and a “hearty yeehaw” from Wedrickas, calling the hungry cowpokes to a gourmet spread prepared by Infinity Catering. Guests enjoyed a sophisticated menu featuring garden salad, beef brisket or tilapia, cream cheese mash, and honey-glazed lavender carrots, topped off with indulgent treats from Lolli Pops Bakery. In a poignant reversal of roles that left many parents beaming with pride, the students of Trinity Lutheran School (TLS) took on the duties of the waitstaff, serving the community that supports them.
The spiritual heart of the event beat strongest as Trinity Lutheran Pastor Wolter led the room in an opening prayer, setting a tone of gratitude. From there, the atmosphere crackled with the energy of a true community shindig. The décor leaned heavily into the frontier aesthetic, where steel-toed boots, intricate belt buckles, and 10-gallon hats were the order of the day. A few playful “lawmen” even moved through the crowd wearing deputy badges, adding a layer of whimsical authority to the Western transformation of the cottage.
Collaboration extended to the classrooms, where TLS students crafted “Mystery Bags” that were among the night’s most anticipated items. Games of chance kept the energy high, including a solo hand of poker and a wine draw featuring local favorites like Indian Island and 9 Mile Corner.
The auction blocks were stacked with items ranging from the practical to the prestigious:
- Silent Auction: Timeless wristwatches, spa baskets, a firepit bundle, and gift cards to local staples like Wistes.
- Live Auction: Reserved parking spots at TLS, a party bus experience, homemade breads, a three-night stay at the Darling Cabin Airbnb, and even the chance for a student to be “Principal for a Day” at TLS.
As the night drew to a close, the focus returned to the mission: keeping a small private school going strong through community investment.
“To our sponsors and donors—thank you,” Wedrickas shared. “Because of you, we’re able to not only host a meaningful night together, but continue to support and grow what we offer our students each and every day, nurturing them in education, faith, and family.”
While the 12th annual Tribute has concluded, the school noted that over 34,000 dollars was raised; however, those still interested in becoming a sponsor or supporting the mission are always welcome. In the end, it wasn’t just about the money raised, but about the “roots of faith” that keep the Trinity community growing year after year.
