March 23, 2012 (Parkville, MO) – Partygoers will have much to celebrate when Parktoberfest returns to a beautifully restored park after extensive cleanup and rebuilding due to last year’s flooding. The 2011 flood killed approximately 100 trees throughout the park and caused damage to structures including a stage and playground equipment. According to Tom Barnard, Parks Superintendent, seeding is ongoing with plans to tackle the playground area adding new mulch, a slide and a climbing wall. “Our Arbor Day will be held on April 12th, which will coincide with the grand opening of the Park. We have plans to plant as many trees as possible to replace the ones lost in last year’s flood,” said Barnard. There will be a ribbon cutting at 10:00 am, followed by the tree planting. The public is invited to attend, and representatives from the EPA and FEMA will also be on hand.

The 4th Annual Parktoberfest is set for October 6th, beginning with a Parkville Chamber 5K Run starting at 8am, followed by a “Family” run. Races will be finished by 10am. Music and entertainment begin at noon on the main stage; with last call at 8pm. Music includes The Elders are on a double headliner with The Rainmakers, and a full lineup of local talent including School of Rock’s Best, and Rockin Rob’s music show for the kids. There will be local fare from Parkville restaurants, the popular beer garden and a high quality wine tent. Admission is free (a $10 park donation to help with additional projects is suggested).

Funds generated from last year’s event continue to go toward restoration efforts. Local businesses including McDonald’s, Parkville Coffeehouse, and Stone Canyon, have placed donation boxes in their lobbies to help raise additional funds. “There is still a lot of work ahead so we really appreciate the efforts of these local businesses,” said Cory Miller, Chairman of Friends of Parkville Parks, the nonprofit behind Parktoberfest.

Sponsors already committed for the 4th Annual Parktoberfest include Miller’s Landscape & Lawn Care, North Kansas City Hospital, Parkville Old Town Community Improvement District (CID), Ultimate Athletic, and Missouri-American Water. Parktoberfest offers five levels of sponsorship and is currently seeking another title sponsor and a stage sponsor. The event is also endorsed by the City of Parkville, Platte County, the Parkville Chamber of Commerce, the Main Street Parkville Association, the Parkville Economic Development Council, and Parkville Presbyterian Church.

For more information, visit www.parktoberfest.net, or email: contact.parktoberfest@gmail.com for volunteer/sponsorship/vendor interest.

Mark Ballard of School of Rock will once again put together a stellar line-up for our entertainment. Bands interested in performing - will be auditioned by Mark. Email: contact.parktoberfest@gmail.com