Flags created a colorful backdrop for the Joe Kroboth Duo as they provided the music for dancing and general enjoyment at the Austreibungs Fest, or the festival to chase away winter.

The flags were from Germany, Bavaria and Austria, Don Eckhart explained.

Paul Semmel was walking around talking to people as they entered the Goodwill Fire Company social hall in Germansville.

He is the new president of the German American Union. The organization was begun to help preserve the German culture here and carry American culture to Germany where it runs the Pastorius House in Germany. Its purpose when built in 1668 was to house the unmarried women in Bad Windsheim after the 30 Year War.

On a table in the social hall were free copies of German Life magazine and some used books written in German, including an encyclopedia.

A fast dance sent many of the dancers to their seats but the song got the loudest cheers.

Eckhart bought the “lady” standing near the stage when the restaurant on the Blue Mountain at Route 309 held an auction. He was happily surprised “she” did not cost more than $20.

The Josef Kroboth Duo includes Joe and Bob Pristash. The latter said he has been playing for 35 or 40 years but joined Joe 30 years ago.

Kroboth carries on a family tradition begun by his great-grandfather in Burgenland, Austria.

He specializes in Austrian, Czech/Slovak and German music.

After joining with Bob Pristash they began providing a variety of options for small venues, restaurants and private parties.

They also have music suitable for church services.