Germanfest members participate in Diversity Summit

 Louisiana’s cultural diversity was in the spotlight at the Diversity Summit at Bayou Vista Community Center in Morgan City on Tuesday, Feb. 18.

Roberts Cove Germanfest members and German Heritage Museum volunteers accepted the invitation of Lt. Derrick D. Sanders to participate in the summit to showcase the history of the German settlement in Roberts Cove. On tap for the day were Louisiana food, music, dance, art and history. Visitors viewed cultural exhibits, tasted the flavors of international cuisine and heard a Louisiana songstress.

The summit was sponsored by the United States Coast Guard Marine Safety Unit in Morgan City.  Many of the Coast Guard personnel from throughout the United States who are now stationed in Morgan City were present and were happy to visit with those celebrating their Louisiana culture.

Participants in the event from the Roberts Cove area included Josie Thevis, Dot Leger, Marietta Sikat, Lawrence and Mary Cramer, Marcella Ohlenforst, Jeanie Fruge, Dot Leonards and Mary Ann Leonards. The group was included as part of the program and sang German songs for the audience.

The Roberts Cove exhibit table included a tri-fold display depicting early settlers and homes of Roberts Cove, Louisiana farming practices and other information and handouts.

Visitors were invited to taste zucker platzchen (sugar cookies) and receive information about the annual Germanfest celebration held each year on the first weekend in October. This year will mark the 20th anniversary of the celebration.