Have fun, be safe this Oktoberfest

It is that time of year again. Time to celebrate La Crosse. This is one of the biggest weekends of the year in our city, when tens of thousands of people descend on La Crosse to celebrate German heritage. It is much like a big family reunion for many, seeing people they may only see once a year. And everybody is in a good mood. But this is much more than just fun. Oktoberfest, according to a new study, represents a $15 million economic impact to the city each year. For many of our out of town friends, Oktoberfest is what puts La Crosse on the map. So as hosts to all these visitors, we need to set a good example for how to behave during Fest. Sure the rules are a little looser during Saturday’s parade, and the hours that follow, but there are still rules. We don’t need any overturned cars or tossed squirrels. And we also need to make sure we all stay safe. As Oktoberfest officials remind us, Have fun, be safe. Stick with your friends. We want you back next year. So let’s have fun, celebrating with our friends. But let’s do so safely, and within the rules. Then we can all do it again next year. Prost!