The ninth Fountain Hills Oktoberfest was a great success. Over 3,200 visitors enjoyed the beautiful event setting. They come from all over the Valley and many wore the traditional attire such as Dirndls and Lederhosen in celebration of the 200-plus-year Oktoberfest tradition.

Mayor Kavanagh opened the event with the tapping of the ceremonial keg. “Die Echten Waldbuam” entertained with traditional sound and talented MC Marta Ludwig led the activities and competitions. We appreciate the many volunteers who offer their time to fill over 150 positions needed to prepare and host the event.

We wish to thank all of our helpers that are always there when needed for the setup and cleanup; they work behind the scenes for the sheer satisfaction of being part of a fun event. This year the members of the Sons of the American Legion prepared and served the food. The labor-intense process for the homemade schnitzels and sauerkraut paid off with many compliments from everyone who enjoyed them.

Thank you Arizona Propane for the donated propane gas tanks to fire up the grills. Four Peaks Rotary served the various Warsteiner beers, soft drinks, pretzels and the traditional gingerbread hearts. Noon Kiwanis managed the gates and ticket sales. Final cleanup was handled by the girls’ high school basketball team and an amazing job was done. The FHHS photo club was there and captured the event with some 140 pictures.

My heartfelt thanks go to all who came and celebrated with us, the vendors and sponsors and everyone who helped make the event another success.

Oktoberfest provides a great fundraising opportunity for all of the service organizations and high school clubs for programs that benefit Fountain Hills. Thank you Sam Coffee and Denise

Dunning-Ricketts, who work with me during the countless planning hours.