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!”
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