Corry's Ale House Hosts Oktoberfest for Local Charity

To be able to help a sick child is something very special. 

in Wantagh did just that this past Saturday as they hosted an Oktoberfest-themed fundraiser to benefit the .

Corry's Ale House opened its doors to Wantagh last September, and after a year of ongoing support from the community, owner John Corry felt he should do something to give back and show his appreciation. When seeking a worthy charity, Corry knew JTCF would be the perfect choice.

"John Theissen's foundation is right here in Wantagh and he does fantastic work for children and the entire community," Corry said. "The charity is very deserving. Anything to help sick children is very close to my heart ... It would be nice if we can continue this tradition every year."

John Theissen founded the Wantagh-based organization 20 years ago after a hard-fought battle with a brain tumor as a teen. Since its inception, the charity has helped thousands of sick or underprivileged children across Long Island.

"We got a beautiful day for a great event," Theissen said on Saturday. "Corry's Ale House is a new restaurant and they're already giving back to the community in such a generous way. It's really great."

Saturday's fest featured a wide selection of German beers, offering a genuine Oktoberfest feel, along with live music, raffles, painting and crafts for children and delicious barbecued food.

According to Theissen, proceeds from Saturday's activities will be donated to wish granting, where Theissen and his board provide sick children with extraordinary gifts.

The JTCF is celebrating its 20th anniversary this winter as they approach a busy holiday season. Starting in November is the foundation's annual toy drive, where thousands of new toys are collected for children in hospitals around the island. The foundation's biggest fundraiser, the holiday gala, will be held at in Wantagh on Dec. 1.