Patrons were met curbside with smiles for those with prepaid tickets and those that were purchasing at the event. From left are Grover Lee Dahl, Mike Dahl, Jose Gonzales (back left), James Valenzuela (back right) and Yolanda Leanos.

GRIDLEY, CA (MPG) - The Knights of Columbus St. Mary’s Council #12527 held their 27th annual St. Patrick’s Day Dinner on Saturday, March 14.

The fundraiser took place at Parish Hall and included a drive-thru option for those who chose not to dine inside.

Guests who attended in person saw festive decorations and had the chance to enter a drawing for a five-day, six-night trip to Hawaii through St. Vincent de Paul for $10 per entry. Participants were also entered to win a gift basket of barbecue items and a gift certificate for a rack of ribs, courtesy of Manzanita Market.

Pedro Mota (left) helps those choosing the Drive-Thru option pick up their freshly cooked holiday meal.

Cooks began early, preparing traditional Irish corned beef and cabbage. Dine-in guests moved through a salad bar and buffet line and selected cookies for dessert.

Green beverages were served as attendees supported the Knights. Volunteers also provided car-side service for those on the go.

“We were in competition with two other events,” said Raul Leanos of the Knights, referring to Little League Opening Day and the California Deer Association dinner.

James Valenzuela says “Cheers” to St. Patrick at the Knights of Columbus St. Patrick’s Day Dinner fundraiser.

Despite the overlap, Leanos said early numbers show the event turned a profit.

Funds raised by the Knights of Columbus are returned to the community through donations to programs such as Sober Grad Night and local high school sports teams, Leanos said.

Proceeds from the dinner support the Knights of Columbus and its community efforts.

After putting in long hours in the kitchen preparing for the evening’s event, the cooks and helpers had everything cleaned up and were ready to enjoy the evening.