Oktoberfest 2015 is now over.

What a wonderful event, especially after the disaster we suffered on Saturday last year. While the temperature was a few degrees higher than we would have liked, the park was glorious after about 7:30. A big thanks to the many Fountain Hills residents who attended and made this event a success.

We planned for increased attendance this year by adding an additional beer tent and more food servers; however, the number of people attending grossly exceeded our expectations, especially on Saturday. The lines went on forever at one point in the night. Fortunately, most people were understanding and just enjoyed the music and other entertainment while waiting for their food or beer.

I want to take this opportunity to thank the many people who gave so much of their time to help out. Special thanks to the following for their outstanding contributions. Andrew, from Fountain Hills Water and Ice who helps us at every event. Andre Renoth, Safeway manager, for the two pallets of water that he donated on very short notice. The Noon Kiwanis for outstanding work handling the gates and ticket sales. Extra special thanks to Captain Dave Letourneau and Deputy Mark Fisher of the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office. The MSCO deputies and the FH Sheriff’s Posse are invaluable in helping maintain order, and helping people in need.

The organizers of this event do not make any money from the event. All the profit goes to local and veterans’ charities. Organizations such as the Food Bank, the high school, Sister Cities, Veterans’ Suicide Prevention, and women veterans’ rehabilitation are just some of the charities that receive grants from this event. The organizers are not paid, nor are the majority of the people you see setting up and executing the event.