Richtfest (29. February 2008)

On February 29th 2008 H.I.S. celebrated the traditional German "Richtfest" together with more than 300 people. It was a tremendous opportunity for us to share in this traditional German ceremony, and recognise the hard work of the construction team since the Ground-breaking ceremony at the end of March 2007.

Paraphrase of the Richtfest Toast: H.I.S. 29.02.08, 2 pm

With Good Will and Respect

It's a fine, old tradition to celebrate the finished roof of a building. I am sure the building's owner and all those present here today share my opinion. I heartily welcome you all to this celebration!
This building has been constructed with great effort and hard work. Machinery and sweat, and not forgetting, expertise.
The Ceremonial Crown hanging from the crane, is in honour of the builders. I stand here and represent them, their foreman.
Thanks to the mild winter, the deadline hasn't wavered. The roof is finished, a protection from all weathers.
Wood hasn't been used for the roof of this large and proud building. Instead the engineers first choice was concrete and steel.
The bricklayers and concrete pourers didn't shy from their great task. They built walls, shelled and concreted and were not afraid of the hard work,
But what would the manual work be, without the mind that worked beforehand. Man's hand alone cannot build without a goal and proper plan.
Mr. Volkmann and Mr. Schildknecht have often racked their brains. Both the teachers and the students have to love the school! Mrs. Kepka also played a great part in the planning.
Let us not forget the engineers and technicians; Mr. Defiebre and Mr. Touzil did the calculations. Their duties being heating, water, electricity and light.
But something else is needed for this great building. For this Mr. Kraus takes the responsibility. For the financial help, and thus the well being of the pupils from all over the world.
This school is a home for our youth. It will show us the way to knowledge and some virtues.
It wants to give us all its know-how and skills, so that we are equipped for future life.
A gym has been built, that makes sport for all students compulsory. So that body and soul stay fresh, happy and free.
 Hence, I take hold of this glass, which has been filled to the brim. With this wonderful juice from the vine, I would like to honour everyone! As so is the custom on completion of a building.
CHEERS
Cheers! To the owners of this building who gave us the opportunity to work.
Thank you Mrs. Kepka and Mr. Kraus, in your honour I would like to raise my glass once more.
CHEERS
For all the reliable planners, please be honoured by my praise. Keep planning with the same expertise in future and it will definitely be a masterpiece.
To you children, teachers and all parents, may you be protected at all times. Let Heaven bless you all here and on your life's journey.
CHEERS
And so please take your glass once more. Here's to everyones great wish that this building serves its purpose.
CHEERS
With the smashing of my glass on the ground, let this building be protected forever. (Smashes glass)
My speech is finished, the bottle is empty and there are no more glasses up here. Finally, let us move further to the festive buffet.
May everyone enjoy the food and drink.