SCI Coal Township staff were treated to fresh homemade doughnuts in recognition of Fat Tuesday, also known as Fastnacht or Doughnut Day. Doughnut Day is the last day before Lent, the 40-day season before Easter, which begins on Ash Wednesday.
A fastnacht is a heavy, yeast raised potato doughnut that is typically prepared on Fat Tuesday. These doughnuts are part of Easter traditions in Pennsylvania Dutch country, which includes Lancaster, York and Berks counties in south-central Pennsylvania.
The term "fastnacht" comes from the German words "fast," a shortened form of the verb "fasten" meaning "to fast," and "nacht," which means "night." Fastnacht Day is the eve of the Lenten fasting period that many Christian denominations observe. Tradition holds that on this day, households use up all the fat and sugar in the house before Lent begins. This practice also gives Fat Tuesday its name.
Coal Township's employee recreation association provided the doughnuts to all staff on Doughnut Day. The doughnuts were purchased from Hollywood Bakery in Mount Carmel, a favorite local establishment.
Employee Recreation Association members were at the facility early to bag the doughnuts for distribution to staff. Shown are Unit Manager Kathy Biscoe, ERA Secretary; Unit Manager Bryan Toms, ERA Board Member; Captain Jeff Madden, ERA Board Member; Psychological Services Specialist Nicole Tasker, ERA Board Member; and Lieutenant Rick Shipe.