Individuals remold elements to create altered forms. - Meteorologist Sven Plöger is now the latest "Eel King."
Meteorologist Sven Plöger, aged 57, will be honored as the "Aalkönig" in Bad Honnef this coming October. He will replace SPD European politician Katharina Barley in this role, according to an announcement made by the Aalkönig committee on Wednesday. The committee explained that Plöger is an ideal candidate to receive this title due to his expertise in explaining weather-related events such as flooding, heavy rain, and climate change.
The title of "Aalkönig" has been bestowed upon a deserving public figure since 2003, and comes with a festival that raises funds for the event. This biennial festival initially aimed to raise money for the preservation of a historical eel fishing boat located on the Rhine in front of Bad Honnef. Over the years, however, the primary beneficiaries have shifted to social projects for children and young people. A total of 980,000 euros has been donated to such causes through this ceremony.
Plöger will assume his new role as Aalregent on October 11th. Past recipients of the honor include former Foreign Minister Hans-Dietrich Genscher (1927-2016), former SPD candidate for chancellor Peer Steinbrück, and television presenter Eckart von Hirschhausen.
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Sven Plöger, hailing from North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, will be joined by numerous people in Bad Honnef for his crowning as the new "Eel King." Katharina Barley, a prominent figure from the SPD party, previously held this title. The Rhine, known for its historical eel fishing, plays a significant role in the festivities, with celebrities often attending the ceremony.