This 116-year-old Democratic Club in Bethlehem and others could fold under financial strain of

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2. Private social clubs are having a terrible time right now

I'm a 25-year member of a historic German Mannerchor Club on the northside of Pittsburgh. It's not in the political neighborhood, but it's definitely a cultural focal point in the German-roots area called "Deutschtown." Needless to say our many choral rehearsals, concerts, festivals such as Oktoberfest, and cultural events have been cancelled or vastly curtailed. Full-time employees have had their hours cut, others have been furloughed. Our most profitable events such as Oktoberfest and private weddings have all been cut this year.

I have no doubt that other private social clubs are having similar problems. It's going to be touch and go for at least a year, but our members are trying to keep it together. Our historic club is over 165 years old and none of us want to see it go under. It takes a dedicated group of people who are willing to volunteer their hours, since the club can't afford to pay for service-help right now. Hopefully our many members will maintain their sponsorship and help the club make it through this crisis.