Congratulations to our 2011 Special Fester, Sydney Fitpatrick!
Sydney is a very happy, social 10 year old girl! She is going into the 4th grade at La Crescent elementary. When asked what activities Sydney liked best, her Mom’s response was, “WOW! She likes to do so much!” Sydney plays ball at the Miracle League at the YMCA, swims and goes tubing on the river, and rides horses. In the wintertime Sydney loves playing in the snow and downhill skiing!
Sydney lives with her mother and father, Jason and Vikki Fitzpatrick, and her brother Jacob (Jake) in La Crescent, MN. Despite her Cerebral Palsy, myasthenia gravis, and seizures Sydney keeps everyone in good spirits with her contagious smile. She officially became part of our Oktoberfest family at the Special Fester Ball “Tanz für Alle” (German for “Dance for Everyone!”).
The “Tanz für Alle” was Sunday, September 18, 2011 from 4-8 pm at the All-Star Lanes Banquet Hall. This pre-fest event is open to the public and one of the most touching events that Oktoberfest is affiliated with. Food and beverages are provided as well as music and good times! There is no cost to attend, but a donation is appreciated. We hope you were about to attend and meet our 2011 Special Fester, Sydney Fitzpatrick!
Know someone who you think would be a good fit as a Special Fester? Fill out this nomination form (download printable PDF) and return it to:
Chileda
Attn: Shari Carlson
1825 Victory Street
La Crosse, WI 54601
REMINDER: The 2011 Oktoberfest Special Fester has ALREADY BEEN CHOSEN. We will start accepting 2012 Nominations from October 2, 2011 - June 8, 2012.
Starting in 1989, the Special Fester is a child named so for their ability to persevere no matter what life may throw at them. Tying in with the "EveryBody Can Dance" party being held annually at the All Star Banquet Hall, Oktoberfest was thrilled to include the "Special Fester" in their Royal Family whenever possible. Below, you'll see the names of past "Special Fester" titleholders.
| Year |
Special Fester |
| 1989 |
Miranda Roberts |
| 1990 |
Jill Bakalars |
| 1991 |
Jamie Williams |
| 1992 |
Brad Swinghammer |
| 1993 |
Amanda Hundt * |
| 1994 |
Ashley Adams |
| 1995 |
Patrick Molzahn |
| 1996 |
Devon Sprain |
| 1997 |
Molly Mulrennan |
| 1998 |
Thea Aspenson |
| 1999 |
Jareau Ammann |
| 2000 |
Katie Kane |
| 2001 |
Teri Gerlach |
| 2002 |
Andrew Fruit |
| 2003 |
Keith Stachowitz |
| 2004 |
Cassie Strand |
| 2005 |
Mitch Kaiser |
| 2006 |
Emily Limbach |
| 2007 |
Danny Alderman |
| 2008 |
Alysha Klatt |
| 2009 |
Brevin Terpstra |
| 2010 |
Jonah Cowgill |
| 2011 |
Sydney Fitzpatrick |
* Fondly remembered.