Fat Tuesday: Carbo loading begins ahead of Ash Wednesday, Lent

By Felicia Sonmez Viewers of this Wednesday's CNN presidential debate in Arizona could see the candidates' faith on display quite literally. That's because the debate takes place on Ash Wednesday, the first day of the Catholic holy season of Lent.

Wednesday is an important religious holiday for many, marking the start of Lent with Ash Wednesday. Fish fry dinners will abound Wednesday and on every Friday between now and Easter; check out the restaurant directory on Wauwatosa Patch for places to

SMALL PRINT: ON THE FIRST DAY of Lent, having ash on one's forehead used to be common in Ireland. But has Ash Wednesday's sacramental ritual depleted in popularity or are Catholics still marking themselves out in the act of repentance before God?

The 40 days of Lent that lead to Easter are the most sacred and spiritually powerful in the Christian calendar. From the Ash Wednesday reminder to 'remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return,' to the the Stations

[Ed. Note: Innovative idea, or Just Nuts? You tell me. Ashes to Go website is at www.ashestogo.org. Cheryl M. Wetzel]. http://www.newstimes.com/news/article/Celebrating-Ash-Wednesday-outside-of-Starbucks-3339909.php