By ROWENA PLETT

Staff writer

Despite a forecast for rain and thunderstorms Saturday, the day turned out to be relatively mild, with slight misting from time to time.

A sizeable crowd showed up to enjoy food and entertainment in the park. Musical entertainment was in the community building, where people could stay warm while eating and visiting.

“This is the first time in 32 years that entertainment had to be brought inside,” committeeman Lester Kaiser said.

The 11 a.m. parade was short, lasting less than 15 minutes. Entries included Stardust Sheep Farm, Marion Saddle Club, Centre Junior/Senior Band, kings and queens in an elementary school coloring contest, an antique vehicle, St. Luke Hospital, and local fire engines.

One unique entry was a “Just Married” bride and groom riding in a decorated all-terrain vehicle with pop cans dangling behind. Daniel and Ashley Klein of Lincolnville were married Sept. 29 in San Antonio, Texas. They met online. Daniel’s parents, Brian and Denise Klein of Lincolnville, followed them in the parade in their own ATV.

Three large inflatables kept children busy all day long, along with a kiddie train.

Several vendors defied the threat of rain and set up canopies to offer their wares.

A pet show attracted six entries including two decorated goats and four dogs. The dog Moon Pie, a 10-month-old European Blue Great Dane shown by Theresa Carroll of Lincolnville, won Best of Show.

Octoberfest committee chairman Cris Peterson was pleased with the day.

“We were lucky,” she said. “The whole day was better than I thought it would be. I was thankful for the vendors who came, and they all did pretty well.”

She was thankful for the eight people who volunteered to help and the merchants who donated prizes.