 |
| Tobias Klingelhoefer and El Rey Feo, Jon Herrera, sing from Beethoven Maennerchor's song book during Fiesta week. |
"Beethoven Maennerchor is deeply embedded in San Antonio," said Beethoven president Claus Heide. " Every year, our volunteers and members spend countless hours preparing food, making sure the grounds are ready, tending to the parking lot, and welcoming people during the week. It's a tremendous undertaking that we are proud to be a part of."
Anyone who has ever been to Beethoven during Fiesta knows the food is incomparable. From brats to Reuben sandwiches, the food holds sentimental value and, well, it just tastes really good. Joe Moulder co-chairs the food committee and credited the volunteers for the club's momentum on the food line.
"You are the ones who made Fiesta at Beethoven possible," he told the volunteers. "Thank you. That's what keeps our club open and allows up to keep our prices very low."
Their responsibilities include hours of prep work, peeling, cutting, and boiling. Fiesta week is the second busiest for Beethoven every year. The busiest, of course, is Oktoberfest.
This week, "The People's King," El Rey Feo Jon Herrera, visited Beethoven. King Antonio himself made an appearance with his Royal Court. Beethoven also paid tribute to members of the Armed Services during Military Appreciation Night. And of course, Beethoven's own Maennerchor (men's choir), Damenchor (women's choir), and dance and concert bands entertained the crowds.
Just outside the gate and across the street, Beethoven offers parking for a nominal fee. During Fiesta, a spot runs $10. It increases to $20 during the King William Fair. One driver asked about the fee, hoping her money would go to a worthy cause.
"The cause is most worthy," said Ken Weber, Beethoven vice president. "The funds collected for parking are reserved for historic preservation and upkeep at Beethoven.. A project near to many members hearts is the restoration of the historic 9-pin bowling alley, located just off the Garten on the southern end of the property."
If there was any doubt that Fiesta was successful, a quick trip inside the clubroom would put the rumors to rest. Nearly all of the taps were tapped out following the event. Bar manager Jason Trevino is expecting his next delivery soon to make sure First Friday is equipped with the German beverages that members and visitors alike count on.
"Fiesta's done but now we're looking ahead," Heide said. "There's never a dull moment."
