American German Club News

Frank Nechvatal

Our February meeting was devoted to the German celebration of Fasching. Fasching is celebrated in Germany before the start of Lent, marked by Ash Wednesday. It is a very similar event to Mardi Gras, as is celebrated in New Orleans. In both cases, people dress in costumes and hold parades and parties filled with food and drink. Fasching and Mardi Gras spring from the practice of partying before Lent. Lent is the 40-day period of time before Easter. It marks the period of time Jesus went out into the desert and fasted before he went into Jerusalem for the Jewish Passover, only to be taken into custody by the Pharisees and turned over to the Romans who occupied Israel at the time. Jesus was executed for sedition on a cross, died, and rose from the dead three days later.

Members were invited to attend the meeting in costumes and partake in food and beverage. Three selected members judged the costumes, with the winner receiving a prize. We all had a good time.

As we move forward to the end of our club’s season (September through April), we look forward to our April Patio Party Potluck to be held on the patio on Thursday, April 27, starting at 5 p.m. The club will provide chicken and potato salad, and members are asked to bring side dishes and desserts.

Our club meets the fourth Thursday of each month, September through April, at 6 p.m. in the Lakeview Room. Any interested SunBird resident may join us. Dues are $10 per season.

Auf Wiedersehen