From left, Kent Stewart, Connie and Pastor Paul Tangonan, and Sen. Roz Baker enjoying Oktoberfest 2017.

LAHAINA – A sold-out Oktoberfest hosted by the Rotary Club of Lahaina Sunrise raised $7,500 for career scholarships.

Anne Biedel, president of Lahaina Sunrise Rotary, announced that the club will offer three $2,500 scholarships in 2018. Applications will be available in March at www.lahainasunriserotary.org and are appropriate for anyone studying for a career in fields such as agriculture, auto mechanics, cooking and more.

The scholarship was created to help train people for careers that do not require a traditional four-year college degree. A high school degree or GED is a requirement, but there is no age limit to those interested in applying.

Due to generous cash donations as well as product and gift cards from the business community, event revenue exceeded that of past years. This will allow the club to offer an additional scholarship in 2018.

“The generosity of the community was outstanding,” said President Biedel.

“We really want to thank everyone who helped make the 2017 Oktoberfest a smashing success. Students awarded these scholarships might become the plumber who fixes your drain, the farmer who grows your food or the carpenter who builds your house.”

The Rotary Club of Lahaina Sunrise is committed to providing training opportunities for students pursuing these important careers. Members will host the popular Oktoberfest at the Pioneer Inn again in the fall of 2018.