Bowen described the “German club” as a Stammtisch – “a regular meeting-place reserved for the same guests on a weekly basis.” However, contrary to this translation, this club is open to anyone studying German, who loves the language, or who is simply interested in learning a bit more about German culture.
Jacob Hutchens, one who may be considered a founding member of the club, said it is a, “Great opportunity to learn more about a culture that is not so common and meet and get to know some Spring Arbor students.”
The “Fall of the Wall” event, sponsored by German club, on Nov. 11 from 5-7 p.m. will give students a moment to consider the impact that the fall of the Berlin Wall had on Germany’s occupants. There will be strudel, apfelschorle, a carbonated apple-juice drink and more German treats and snacks. A three-dollar donation is requested to help pay for refreshments, and all excess funds will be donated to Spring Arbor Free Methodist Church to help with missions.
There are many other trips and events in the works for the SAU German club. A Holocaust museum, the Detroit Institute of Arts and a study abroad program are all either approved or in the process. There is also hope to have a joint-activity with the German students at Lansing Community College.
If you happen to be more serious about learning German, you may soon have the chance. In the next few years Bowen hopes to expand the program with subsequent class levels in the two and three hundreds.
The group is just getting on its feet, but they are building steam and have begun to make plans to increase member’s knowledge of Germany and its language, history and culture. German club is open to anyone, so if you are interested feel free to contact Kim Bowen at ext. 1787 or in his office from 11-12:45 across from the English Department office on the second floor of Sayre-Decan.
