Steps 4 Doug fundraiser benefits ALS research

Steps 4 Doug will host its first Oktoberfest from 4 to 11 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, at Trout Valley Park lodge, off River Drive, east of Cary-Algonquin Road.

In October 2010, Doug MacInnes of Cary was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also know as Lou Gehrig's disease. As an immediate response, his family created Steps 4 Doug, a nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating for people and families who are affected by ALS and funding "steps" toward a cure.

Prior to being diagnosed with ALS, Doug was an avid athlete; triathlons and downhill skiing were favorite hobbies.

This event will feature an exhibit of current Steps 4 Doug funded projects, live music, locally brewed beers in a beer garden, German food and a camp fire singalong. There will be a kids' tent.

Little Broken Arrow will perform from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., followed by Alex and the Allstars form 7 to 9 p.m.

Either buy an all-inclusive wristband (all-you-can-eat/drink and entry) for $50 or purchase an entry ticket for $20 and individual food and drink tickets inside the event. There is an online fee.

Purchase tickets on eventbrite at www.eventbrite.com/e/oktoberfest-tickets-12193459967.

The proceeds will benefit Steps 4 Doug, an ALS organization dedicated to funding ALS research through the University of Chicago and patient care grants for ALS patients in the Northwest suburbs of Chicago. You also can make a direct donation to support Steps 4 Doug by visiting www.steps4doug.org.

To volunteer your time or donate an item to the silent auction, email maryjpearl@gmail.com.