COEUR d'ALENE - The 3Cs are asking folks to kick back a few in the name of charity.

Tickets are on sale for the nonprofit's second Oktoberfest this month, one of the group's largest fundraisers of the year.

It's a good time, promised event chair Bobbi Freeman.

"It is fun," she said. "If people go, they'll find that out and want to come back."

The night will include silent and live auctions with items donated by local businesses. Prizes include spa packages and a two-day fishing trip in British Columbia.

"Local residents have been wonderful in donations," Freeman said. "We wouldn't be able to make money without them."

There will also be a Money Pot raffle, with half of purchases going to a ticket holder. There will also be a chance to win a party wagon loaded with $1,000 worth of adult beverages.

The best part, Freeman said, is the food.

Tim Heinig, chef at the Floating Green Restaurant, will be preparing an impressive spread of German food with a team of volunteer chefs, Freeman said.

"This is quite unusual for a fundraiser," Freeman said. "It's a huge buffet full of food."

German beer and wine will be available, and each ticket includes two drink passes.

Proceeds will go toward charities in Kootenai County.

The event will be from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Best Western Coeur d'Alene Inn on Oct. 23.

Tickets are $35 per person, $20 of which is tax deductible.

Reservation are required, and can be made by calling Marcia Saunders at 773-4909.

The women's charity has held a major fall fundraiser for about nine years, Freeman said. The event was a wine tasting before it became Oktoberfest.

Heinig, who has prepared food for 3Cs events for several years, encouraged folks to buy tickets.

"In times that are hard, for those who can, this is an opportunity to make it a little easier for those who can't," he said.