VISITING AUTHOR/EDITOR ARTICLE

JANUARY  2010

Atlantic City Hosts the Donauschwaben

Forwarded From Trenton Donauschwaben

          A large number of club members from both the Trenton and Philadelphia Donauschwaben headed down to the Trump Taj Mahal Casino this past October 24th.  The occasion was the annual Oktoberfest held at the giant hotel wearing “The Donald’s” famous family name. Indeed, Mr. Trump is very proud of his German heritage and spares little expense in putting on an impressive German event at the sea side resort. Given the fabulous venue, it’s little wonder that our Philadelphia-Trenton dance group was very happy to receive an invitation to be a part of the entertainment this year.

          One of the biggest dance groups we’ve ever assembled arrived at the cavernous convention hall that Saturday afternoon.  Some 12 couples representing both the youth dance group and Philly’s adult group staged both some of their well-known dances along with some newer ones too. The smiling and energetic

dancers endeared themselves to the audience who applauded their performance most appreciatively.

          Things didn’t start out so smoothly however. Let’s face it; it wouldn’t be nearly as interesting if it did!  Due to a technical glitch, the bus carrying most Philadelphians and some Trentonians arrived at the casino with not a moment to spare. Our dancers jumped off and ran through the hotel, right past security

personnel who never even got a chance to object to the youngsters sprinting across the “adults only” gambling area. They eventually ended up where they needed to be just in time, if not just a bit breathless!

          The “Grand Parade” featuring all of the entertainers at the Oktoberfest then got underway. The long line of musicians, luminaries, singers, Schuhplattlers and Donauschwaben dancers snaked its way around the hotel and casino as a promotion meant to lure folks to the event.  Most of our dance group really enjoyed the fact that the parade route included a ride on the long escalator in the main hall. How often does a parade ride on an escalator ?

          All in all, everyone had a good time even though some did complain about leaving a few dollars too many at the slot machines. Thanks to those who attended, including dancers, families, members and friends. A special “shout out” to longtime Trenton members Carl and Sue Conrad who traveled up from Cape May for the event. Thanks also go to former radio personality and Oktoberfest MC Mr. Walter Pottgiesser for the many nice things he said about our Donauschwaben clubs to the big crowd that day. To paraphrase former NJ governor Tom Kean: Atlantic City and the Donauschwaben, “perfect together!”