Festival Raffle Ticket returns can be made before and after all masses this weekend and next. In addition, you can make returns at anytime by taking them to the parish office or by placing them in the collection basket at any mass between now and festival weekend. Don’t forget that this year we will have a drawing for 100% Club members and a second drawing for those who have achieved Super 100% status. Raffle ticket sales have the greatest bearing on the financial success of the festival. We appreciate every effort that you can make to sell or purchase your allotment of tickets.

There is still time to sponsor a game booth in the tent or perhaps some other activity. Why not join with another family and share the sign? Sponsorship opportunities are available for Dinners, Tent Games, Snack Bar, the Tap-Room and Vegas rooms. If you or someone you know would be interested, please e-mail or call the Festival office. Ideas for raffle prizes donations include restaurant gift cards, gift baskets, gas cards (wouldn’t that be a great help), electronic items, TV, stereo and computer components. Perhaps donating some time at a condo in a vacation spot or tickets to a sporting event would be something that you are willing to offer. The list is endless. The sponsor form is available elsewhere in the bulletin as well as on the festival page of the SRB web site.

If you are member of Facebook, why not spread the word about the 2011 Festival. Perhaps you could make plans to meet up with friends and make this another Alumni event. Take a moment or two to look for former classmates or parishioners. You will be surprised to find out how many communicate through this site. Invite your contacts to meet you at the festival and check out some of the things we have to offer.

Pre-sale ride tickets are now available after all masses. Tickets can be purchased at a cost of $15 for 30 coupons, a savings of 50% off of the on grounds price. We will also be selling vouchers for Sunday only wristbands. The presale cost is $15. Thursday evening rides will operate from 6 until 9. Wristbands for Thursday will only be available on the grounds on Thursday night.

Don’t forget the Classic Car Show on Saturday. This activity will be staged across the street from the church s Ashcroft School from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m.

Our entertainment this year includes a new band on Friday night called “Hines Drive”. This is the same group that performed at our fundraiser for the Parkinson’s Foundation in February. Several members of the band are former Thurston High School students and parish members. They currently perform at several local “watering holes”. As we have had for several years, our Saturday entertainment will be Moose and Da’ Sharks with DJ Mark Hudy on Sunday night.

After a long absence, Bingo will return to the festival activities list this year. Bingo will be played in rooms 209-211 in the school. Hours and addition information will be available shortly.

Volunteer sign-up sheets have been posted on the bulletin board in the church hall. There are opportunities in almost all areas. Plan your schedule now to be able to put aside some time join in on the fun. Help will be needed in all areas from ticket returns to Monday clean-up. The official program has been posted on the Festival page of the SRB web site at www.strobertbellarmine.com. With all of the different events, there is sure to be a spot just perfect for you to join in on the fun as a Festival Volunteer. I’m sure that there is someone out there just waiting for the chance to show their skills as Vegas Dealer. Whatever your calling might be, don’t be shy, and don’t miss out on the fun.

To volunteer or for additional information, please contact the Festival office at (313) 937-1530 extension #142 or send an e-mail to festival@strobertbellarmine.com.