Fall for the Chamber 2011: An Oktoberfest Celebration

Come one, come all ... "Fall for the Chamber" at our new fall fundraiser by that name. This year, we're planning ... An Oktoberfest Celebration on Friday, Oct. 14, from 6 to 9 p.m. in the Grand Pavilion at Crowne Plaza Columbus North, 6500 Doubletree Ave. (off Busch Boulevard) The event will be held in lieu of an October Business After Hours. However, there will be plenty of networking opportunities, as well as social exchange and some ways to have fun while supporting the Chamber. Members and guests will enjoy ... Tastes and pourings of five Oktoberfest-style beers. You'll get four taste pours included with your registration ticket and may purchase 16-ounce mugs of your favorites at modest prices. Oktoberfest-themed and German-inspired foods, in a buffet featuring such treats as brats, schnitzel bites, potato pancakes, sauerkraut, pretzels, cream puffs and other seasonal fare. A mystery gift card grab bag activity that supports Chamber scholarships for Leadership Worthington, Women's Business Network, and other Chamber-sponsored local business and school district projects. From a line-up of festive grab bags that all look alike, guests may elect to purchase one or more bags for a donation of $20 each. Each will contain a minimum of $25 in gift cards from local and national stores. So far, the selection includes favorites such as Graeter's, Cameron Mitchell Restaurants, Buca di Beppo, Toyville, Sears, Kroger, Shell Oil, Home Depot, Barnes & Noble, The Wine Bistro, Little Alouette, and more. Interactive entertainment, including performances by -- and opportunities to learn and dance with Liederkranz Kulture Gruppe Dancers. Founded 40 years ago, this dance group still holds onto German and Donauschwaben cultures. Their performances may include German and Donauschwaben folk dancing, lively Bavarian dancing and knee slapping Schuhplattlers. Watch them perform, and then join in the fun, trying out your own steps with their assistance! Photo opps and other fun. Wear a costume or line up in front of Oktoberfest props for fun photos with friends and business contacts. Think lederhosen, dirndls, braids and giant beer steins. Would you like to promote your business through involvement in our Fall for the Chamber Oktoberfest-themed event?

Donations of gift cards of a minimum of $25 in real value (not associated with an additional purchase or restricted to limited merchandise or date) are sought to add to the variety of gift card offerings.
Sponsorships also are available at two levels -- the "Burgermeister" main event sponsors, and the "Lederhosen Supporters," or corporate sponsors. Opportunities for sponsors include display space, acknowledgment at the event, and inclusion in pre- and post-event publicity. Sponsors to date include Burgermeisters Tony Lordo, DDS and Crowne Plaza Columbus North, and Lederhosen-level corporate sponsors from Sinno Law Office.
Donations of Oktoberfest foods from restaurants and caterers also are appreciated. Volunteer opportunities also are available. All donors and volunteers will be acknowledged in pre- and post-event publicity and advertising. Call the Chamber at 888-3040 for details .
Event details:

Event registration is available through the Chamber website, through e-newsletter links, or by calling 888-3040. A standard registration that includes beer tasting is $20 per person (Chamber member or guest -- bring all of your friends!) and includes food, entertainment, door prize drawings and four beer tickets for a “tasting size” of any of the five featured beers -- the same selections poured at the recent Columbus Oktoberfest. Each registrant will receive a hand stamp identifying you to the beer servers as a qualified "taster."
Designated driver registrations  also are available at $10 each. These include food buffet privileges and soft drinks. For more information, contact the Chamber at 888-3040.