By Mary O’KEEFE

Another Oktoberfest has come and gone. With an estimated crowd of between 20,000 and 25,000 people, the event filled every inch of Honolulu Avenue on Saturday.

It was the Montrose Oktoberfest’s 40th anniversary, which was recognized by dignitaries including Senator Anthony Portantino, Glendale City Councilmembers Ara Najarian and Vrej Agajanian, and representatives from Congressman Adam Schiff, Assemblymember Laura Friedman and Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger.

“Remember to come back to Montrose and visit these stores,” Najarian said to the crowd.

Although about 25,000 people were on the Avenue during the 11-hour event, according to Glendale police, there were no arrests made.

“It was pretty quiet,” said Melinda Clarke, executive director of Montrose-Verdugo City Chamber of Commerce.

The MVCCC sponsors the annual Oktoberfest. The Glendale Police Dept. was out in force supporting the event with patrols in cars, motorcycles, foot and bikes. The SWAT (Special Weapons and Tactics) team was also on hand. Many of Oktoberfest visitors stopped by to talk to the officers, many thanking them for being at on-site and adding a much-needed sense of security.

In addition to the varied entertainment, attendees participated in different contests. These included best dressed dog, which was won by a 5-year-old Pomeranian named Finnegan owned by Meredith Molinari. Second place was awarded to Linda Moran’s Cavapoo, named Pooh, who is 6 years old.

Contests were held for young ones who best represented Oktoberfest – the Lil Miss and Lil Master contests. Lil Master was won by the Hickers Brothers. Anderson is 3 and Conner is 6. The Lil Miss crown was awarded to Clara Pulido, 3, with Nadia Wimer Hernandez, 2, coming in second.

Corinna Scott took first place in the Mrs. Oktoberfest contest.

There were plenty of fun activities for children including carnival rides and a giant slide. Overall there was something for everyone.

Oktoberfest is organized by the MVCCC and is fueled by volunteers from local businesses and organizations that include many students. Clarke said there were 250 to 300 volunteers this year in booths and as part of the organizing crew.

  Charly Shelton, Mary Okeefe