Friday, Oct. 05, 2012

OLF has high hopes for Oktoberfest despite fewer sponsors

Oktoberfest organizers are still counting on beer steins running over with cash despite fewer sponsors.

Our Lady of Fatima Parent Club's sixth annual Oktoberfest fundraiser typically brings in $35,000 to $40,000, said club board member Heidi Michael. She said sponsorship was down, but organizers were hoping to draw 900 people to the event Saturday, topping last year's attendance of 854.

No official attendance count was available, but plenty of people did their part to support the Catholic school.

"Whatever they need, I bought 90 bucks worth of (admission) tickets and (spent) another 50 on raffle tickets," said Kevin Knox. "I'm here to help out."

Councilman Scott Silveira was enjoying events at the fundraiser.

"This is my personal play time, have a few beers and enjoy the company of friends," he said.

The beer flowed and the hors d'oeuvres were plentiful, with more than 150 types of beer and sausage, and cheese, wine and fruit.

Anthony Costa hasn't missed an Oktoberfest. He likes sampling the beers -- and supporting the school.

The money raised goes toward operating expenses and is a way to keep tuition costs down. The school charges about $3,800 for tuition, with a total cost per student of $5,700 per year.

Enterprise reporter Corey Pride can be reached at (209) 388-6563 or by email at cpride@losbanosenterprise.com.

Enterprise reporter Corey Pride can be reached at (209) 388-6563 or by email at cpride@losbanosenterprise.com.