NEWSLETTER - German Cultural Society
Transcription
NEWSLETTER - German Cultural Society
NEWSLETTER November 2010 Volume 10-3 Deutscher Kulturverein • German Cultural Society 3652 South Jefferson Avenue, St. Louis, Missouri 63118 (314) 771-8368 www.germanstl.org President: John Pappert Vice-President: Monika Lorenz Treasurer: Ian Romvari Assistant Treasurer: Ursula Fox Controller: John Haas Recording Secretary: Ursula Fox Corresp. Secretary: Monika Schiro Financial Secretary: Kathy Stark Executive Committee: All listed above, plus Erin Stumpf Käthe Tullmann Mike Wendl Advertising: Josef Neulinger Birgit Sterzl McMullen Ralph Ulrich Newsletter: Nikolaus Messmer Josef Neulinger BASTELGRUPPE • DAMENCHOR • DEUTSCHMEISTER BLASKAPELLE • FUSSBALLKLUB • GARDEN CLUB JUGENDGRUPPE • KINDERGARTEN • KINDER-TANZGRUPPE • LESEKREIS MITTLERE TANZGRUPPE • NATURGRUPPE • SCHUHPLATTLER • SENIORENGRUPPE • VOLKSTANZGRUPPE AREA CODE 314 - HALL RENTAL: 771-8368 • NEWSLETTER: 843-4665 & 638-4861• TICKETS: 842-0332 & 843-4073 November 2010 Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein Volume 10-3 Liebe Mitglieder und Freunde - Dear Members and Friends, As this Newsletter goes to press we find ourselves in the final two months of the year. It’s my favorite time of the year with fall colors in their splendor…cool, brisk mornings and pleasant sunny afternoons. It’s the festive part of the year with many of the local German organizations holding their annual concerts and songfests in the greater St Louis area. As an organization we are again one year older. This coming December we will be celebrating the 65th anniversary of the founding of the organization when we take into account our forerunner organization the American Aid Society. The last six months of the year represent the busiest part of our event calendar. Beginning this year with the Annual Tag der Donauschwaben in August. The celebration was held in Philadelphia and sponsored by the United German Hungarians of that region. Our society was well represented with some 80 people in attendance. Also in August, we held our Kirchweihfest which is our most traditional Donauschwaben festival and also serves as our Homecoming. At this event old friendships are renewed and traditional customs celebrated. In September we held our Oktoberfest at the Donau-Park and participated in the Strassenfest now held in Chesterfield. Attendance at the Strassenfest this year was at a reduced level and our financial results were less than anticipated. On Nov 7, we remembered all those that left us and on December 4 we reward ourselves when we celebrate the Tag des Deutschen Kulturvereines. We will conclude the year with the Christmas celebrations in December and finally the Silvesterfeier. I mention the above to demonstrate all those activities that bring us together as a community in celebrating our German heritage and culture. We do this in conjunction with other German organizations in the greater St, Louis area as well as nationally. Our youth organizations have taken on the task of putting together a cookbook featuring recipes for German style cooking and baking. The net proceeds from the book sales will defray a part of the cost for their European cultural tour now planned for 2014. We expect the cookbooks to be available by the end of November. The book would make an excellent Christmas present for family members. You are encouraged to support our youth organizations. (Additional information in other parts of this newsletter) In keeping with the spirit of Thanksgiving and Christmas, it is appropriate to say thank you. Thanks to all those who give so much of their time and talent for the benefit of the organization and the fulfillment of its purpose. In the spirit of giving we contribute in many ways. We plan, we cook, we serve, we sew, and do arts and crafts, we repair and build, we sing and dance, we discuss and sometimes disagree….and heaven forbid we sometimes gossip. Webster’s dictionary defines a gossip as “a person who habitually reveals personal or sensational items”. These statements may be true, hurtful, spiteful or without fact. I mention this as food for thought and for your consideration next time you are in a conversation. In 2010, we completed the first half of Phase II of further development at the Donau-Park. This includes the roughly 1000 square foot building addition attached to the south end of the pavilion. Also included is a new electrical power supply from the Ameren UE grid, power distribution panels as well as storage for tables and chairs. All invoices related to this work are paid for. Both our facilities in the city as well as the DonauPark have no outstanding debt. We should be proud of this accomplishment. Thanks to your help and contributions. This year we also completed the engineering for the second half of Phase II expansion at the Park. This includes the addition of a 2000 square foot building on the West side of the pavilion to house restroom facilities, a multi-purpose meeting room, a small office, storage room and other items. This building would serve as the main entry point to the pavilion hall complex. Constructions bids are on hand for the building shell. In closing, let me remind you that what we do together as a community of people with common interests, is good and worthwhile preserving our culture now and in the future. In this spirit, let me wish you and your family a most joyous holiday season and a most healthy New Year. John Pappert, President The purpose of the German Cultural Society: “To foster and practice our culture, customs and folklore in all its forms … meaning language, music, song, dance, crafts, sports and good fellowship (Gemütlichkeit)” To do this as good citizens of the country we live in and to promote understanding with other ethnic groups. The German Cultural Society is a cultural, charitable, not for profit and non-political organization. Page 2 November 2010 Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein Volume 10-3 REPORT FROM THE DEUTSCHMEISTER BRASS BAND Our playing season is just about over, and it has been very successful. We returned to the St. Charles Oktoberfest after a short break. The weather didn’t exactly smile on us, as a cold front came through while we were playing. The St. Louis Zoo Ottertoberfest was marked by spectacular weather and a new location to play in the park so we could entertain more people while they were enjoying their lunch or beverages. Of course we played for the Strassenfest. We have never missed one since it started. Of course we will play Christmas tunes for the Weihnachtsfeier. Our performance at the Ladies Choir dance included a sensational rendition of Brillantpolka, by trumpet soloist John Corrandini. John is just in his second year with the band. The number he played is a very challenging arrangement, which John performed flawlessly. Doc Severonsen, move over. Thanks to the recruiting efforts of our members and our web site invitation, our ranks have swollen this year. New members include: Tracey Koch, Christina Franzen and Steve Schuent, clarinets, Amy Uttendorf, tenor horn, and Kevin McKee, trombone. We are always interested in new members for the band. For information about joining contact John Ampleman at 636-532-0290 or visit our web site at www.germanband.com Now, in addition to our web site, we are on Facebook, where you can see many more pictures of our performances and find more information. Reported by John Ampleman John Corrandini plays the Brillantpolka at “Liederabend und Tanz” at our hall on Jefferson Avenue Page 3 November 2010 Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein Volume 10-3 Vereinskalender für Jahresende 2010 & 2011 Event-Calendar for year-end 2010 & 2011 DEC DEC DEC CITY CHAPEL 2906 Gravois St. Louis, MO 63118 772-3000 DEC JAN JAN SOUTH COUNTY CHAPEL 5255 Lemay Ferry Road St. Louis, MO 63129 894-4500 AFFTON CHAPEL 10151 Gravois St. Louis, MO 63123 842-4458 MAR MAR MAR APR APR 4 Tag des Deutschen Kulturvereins Day of the German Cultural Society 12 Deutscher Weihnachtsgottesdienst German Christmas Worship Service 19 Deutsche Weihnachtsfeier German Christmas Celebration 31 Silvesterfeier * New Year’s Eve Party 2011 16 Generalversammlung General Assembly 29 Einführung der Vereinsvertreter Installation of Officers 5 Rosenball * sponsored by the Jugendgruppe 12 Trivia Night * 13 Kaffeeklatsch 23 Ostereiersuchen im Donau-Park Easter Egg Hunt at Donau-Park 10 Wurstmarkt @ DKV-Hall APRIL 30 - MAY 1 JAHRESHAUPTVERSAMMLUNG DES DACHVERBANDES DER DONAUSCHWABEN @ DKV-HALL MAY Markers · Monuments · Vases Garden Spaces · Lawn Crypts · Mausoleums 10180 Gravois St. Louis, MO 63123 314-843-3113 Lynn Stevenson Jim Leininger Family Service Counselors 15 Maifest im Donau-Park May Festival at Donau-Park JUN 25 Donauschwäbischer Bündelball AUG 21 Kirchweihfest German Church Consecration Festival SEP10,11 Oktoberfest im Donau-Park Sa tur da Satur turda dayy and Sunda Sundayy The traditional German Harvest Festival OCT TBD Strassenfest OCT 22 Liederabend und Tanz * An Evening of German Song and Dance 6 Totengedenktag - Memorial Tribute NOV DEC 3 Tag des Deutschen Kulturvereins Day of the German Cultural Society DEC 11 Deutscher Weihnachtsgottesdienst German Christmas Worship Service DEC 18 Deutsche Weihnachtsfeier German Christmas Celebration DEC 31 Silvesterfeier * New Year’s Eve Party *For tickets call: Maria Thalheimer: 842-0332 or Ursula Fox: 843-4073 The Membership Meetings are held every odd-numbered month (i.e. 1=JAN, 3=MAR, 5=MAY, 7=JUL, 9=SEP, 11=NOV) on the first Thursday of that month at 7:30 p.m. at our Hall on Jefferson Avenue. The Executive Board meets evey even-numbered month (i.e. 2= FEB, 4=APR, 6=JUN, 8=AUG, 10=OCT, 12=DEC) on the first Thursday of that month at 7:30 p.m. at our Hall on Jefferson Avenue. Page 4 Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein November 2010 Volume 10-3 Tag des Deutschen Kulturvereins Upcoming Events: Tag des Deutschen Kulturvereins Day of the German Cultural Society Saturday, December 4, 2010 for further information see the right side of this page Saturday, December 4, 2010 DKV-Hall, 7:00 pm Kitchen & Bar open at 6:00 pm Deutscher Weihnachtsgottesdienst Day of the German Cultural Society German Christmas Worship Service Sunday, December 12, 2010 for further information see page 9 This event is also known as the day when the leadership of the German cultural Society thanks all of its members for the good work they did all year to make, to the best of their ability, the German Cultural Society what it has been throughout the years and what it is today: a success. Deutsche Weihnachtsfeier und Christkindlmarkt German Christmas Celebration & Christmas Bazaar Sunday, December 19, 2010 for further information see page 11 Silvesterfeier Free food, drink and entertainment, and a heartfelt thank you from our leadership. We meet too often in Funeral Homes …Please come all and let’s celebrate life! New Year’s Eve Party Friday, December 31, 2010 for further information see page 15 2011 Fund-Raiser to buy presents for all children at our Easter Egg Hunt at Donau-Park Generalversammlung General Assembly Sunday, January 16, 2011 A postcard with the details will be mailed to all members Einführung der Vereinsvertreter Installation of Officers Saturday, January 29, 2011 A postcard with the details will be mailed to all members Rosenball the gala-event of the Jugendgruppe Saturday, March 5, 2011 for further information see page 21 Kaffeeklatsch Trivia Night DKV-Hall Saturday, March 12, 2011 for further information see page 17 Sunday, March 13, 2011, 2:00 p.m. DKV-Hall Kaffeeklatsch DKV-Hall Sunday, March 13, 2011 for further information see the right side of this page Page 5 November 2010 Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein Volume 10-3 A Listing of our Groups TOOLING SPECIALISTS INC. - in alphabetical order and in two categories - Terry Ficken President Per oups: erfforming Gr Groups: Bastelgruppe Arts & Crafts Group Coordinator: Käthe Tullmann ..........................314-842-6798 please call for information and schedule Damenchor Ladies’ Chorus Coordinator: Käthe Tullmann ..........................314-842-6798 Music Director: Peggy Pancella Choir Practice: Wednesday @ 7:30 p.m. DKV-Hall Deutschmeister Blaskapelle Deutschmeister Brass Band President ................. Pete Krege Vice-President .........John Ampleman 636-532-0290 johnampleman@att.net Secretary/Treasurer..Mary Weber Members at large .... Ralph Ulrich, Frank Schiro Band Practice: Wednesdays @ 8:00 p.m. DKV-Hall Jugendgruppen: Youth Groups Gateway Podiatry FOOT SURGERY SPORTS MEDICINE Kinder-Tanzgruppe VINCENT SOLLECITO, III, D.P.M. DIPLOMATE, AMERICAN BOARD OF PODIATRIC SURGERY Children’s Dance Group (ages 3-9) Practice: generally 2nd & 4th Sunday of the month Call Birgit for practice and performance schedules Place: DKV-Hall Coordinator: Birgit Sterzl McMullen ................ 618-654-1340 Mittlere Tanzgruppe 3915 WATSON ROAD SUITE 200 ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI 63109 314-352-2711 FAX 314-644-5081 Middle Dance Group (ages 10-14) Coordinator: Ruth Vanderpluym .................... 618-538-9975 see website / call Ruth for practice/performance schedules Jugendgruppe - Youth Group Practice: DKV-Hall Coordinator: Rosemarie Ficken …................. 314-487-3969 Call Rosemarie for practice and performance schedules FOR OTHER LOCATIONS CALL: 314-432-1903 Page 6 November 2010 Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein Volume 10-3 Volkstanzgruppe Coordinator: Monika Lorenz For practice & performance schedules contact Monika Lorenz at 314-894-5561 or monika.g.lorenz@pfizer.com Kindergarten Susan Gallagher ............ Pamela Wendl ............... Kathy Vollman ................ Amanda Finn ................. Susi Goebel ................... Co-Chair .............. 314-791-1561 Co-Chair .............. 317-849-4243 Assistant Librarian Instructor ............. 314-432-1340 Classes ........................ 2nd & 4th Saturday of the month 9:30-11:00 a.m., DKV-Hall Please call Susan Gallagher for information & schedules Lesekreis Reading Circle (German Literature) Coordinator: Käthe Tullmann ........................ 314-842-6798 Meetings: Please call for the next scheduled meeting. Natur- und Wandergruppe Outdoors Group Coordinator: Susi Goebel .................................. 314-432-1340 Call Susi Goebel for the next scheduled event Schuhplattler Traditional Bavarian Dance Group Coordinator & Dance Instructor: John Unterreiner ....................................... 314-846-9401 Please call for information Seniorengruppe Seniors’ Group Coordinators: Rose Lengenfelder .................................. 314-631-4364 Becky Haas ............................................. 314-487-7852 Meetings: 2nd Tuesday of each month, 1-4 pm, DKV-Hall. Please call for information SUNSET HILLS DENTAL GROUP, INC. 11810 GRAVOIS ROAD ST. LOUIS, MO 63127 A thank-you to all - named or unnamed in this listing who help throughout the year to make the German Cultural Society the success that it is today. DANIEL A. KAUFMANN, D.D.S. 314-842-5000 EXT. 46 Page 7 November 2010 Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein Bob and Gerhard Wanninger Volume 10-3 Service Groups: Bar Committ ee Committee Groups that tend bar at events at our Hall and at Donau-Park; the Bar Manager plans, orders and takes delivery of bar supplies for all events throughout the year. Bar Manager: Hans Lengenfelder: 314-631-4364 Bar Co-Manager Frank Rohatsch: 314-843-5295 G&W Members of each group are listed in alphabetical order of last names. MEAT AND BAVARIAN STYLE SAUSAGE CO., INC. 4828 Parker Avenue St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 352-5066 Retail: Wednesday & Thursday: 7-4 pm Friday: 7-5 pm Saturday: 8-2 pm Bartenders - Group 1: Herbert Fritz, John Haas, Sepp Messmer, Wally Meyer. Group 2: Franz Heitzmann, Lorenz Kaiser, Sepp Neulinger, Willy Tullmann. Group 3: Matthias Fett, Hans Lengenfelder, Steve Meinberg, John Mueller Group 4: Eberhard Pfitzner, Matt Potje, Steve Potje Group 5: Liz Young and Marilyn Heidbrink plus other parents of the Kinder-Tanzgruppe Group 6: Joe Borasuk, James Provo, Rudi Sterzl. Reserves: Walter Busch, Ralph Hoffarth, Erich Jenke, Ann Mathes, Ian Romvari, Helga Thalheimer Donau-P ar k De oup Donau-Par ark Devvelopment Gr Group - The Wednesday Group Meets every Wednesday to develop and maintain our Donau-Park Facilities in Jefferson County on a year-round basis. Members: Herbert Fritz, Ralph Hoffarth, Joe Kiry, Frank Irovic, Hans Lengenfelder, Sepp Messmer, Wally Meyer, John Mueller, Sepp Neulinger, John Pappert, Matt Potje, Frank Rohatsch, George Ruppe, Rudi Sterzl, Willy Tullmann, George Wilhelm, Emmet Wuertz, Marvin Young. Page 8 November 2010 Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein Volume 10-3 F estk omit ee estkomit omitee Responsible for the planning and executing of all menus for DKVsponsored major events, including ordering and receiving of the required supplies, the preparing and serving of food, and the workman-like maintenance of our kitchen facilities and related equipment. Coordinators: Annerose Klotz: 314-965-1730 Ray Vonderhaar: 636-464-3265 Members: Pete Heddell, Ralph Hoffarth, Ken Klotz, Ann Mathes, Caroline & Sepp Messmer, Margot Scheck, Ann Vonderhaar The Festkomitee could not function without the numerous helpers who volunteer every time either in the preparation or the serving of food. To help the Festkomitee, please call Annerose. Deutscher Weihnachtsgottesdienst Garden Club The Ladies’ Chorus of the German Cultural Society sings at the Meets as required to plant and maintain flowers in both locations. Becky Haas - coordinator German Christmas Worship Service Members: Kathy Heitzmann, Trudi Lasinski, Rose Lengenfelder, Barb Potje, Anni Ruppe, Irma Wittendorfer Sunday, December 12, 2:30 p.m. Peace Lutheran Church Hall Maint enance Organization Maintenance - The Thursday Group - 737 Barracksview Road, St. Louis, MO 63125 (One mile west of Jefferson Barracks Bridge near Telegraph and I-255) Meets every Thursday to maintain our hall on Jefferson Avenue on a year-round basis. Coordinator: call 314-771-8368 Entire Service in German Members: Henry Erk, Hans Fischer, Peter Freiling, Nick Glasz, Alfred Guttler, Thomas Kaiser. with English helps provided For further information call: The Rev. Dennis A. Kastens, Pastor, 314-892-5610. Käthe Tullmann, 314-842-6798. Websit e ebsite to maintain and keep our website current Bill Wolz, Webmaster, wolz256@gmail.com Please e-mail Bill for website changes and updates. A thank-you to all - named or unnamed in this listing who help throughout the year to make the German Cultural Society the success that it is today. The entire service will be broadcast over radio station KFUO-850-AM Page 9 November 2010 Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein Volume 10-3 Handcrafted Gifts from the Alps of Europe Bavarian Pewter Jewelry Erntedank Swiss Kunsthandwerke Austrian Crystal & Candles Tyrolean Wood Carvings Castle Posters, Calendars Es wächst auf Gottes Erde viel köstlich Korn und Brot. Dass sie gesättigt werde, hilft ihr der Schöpfer Gott. Er gibt, dass sie sich neue, die Saat und dann die Frucht, und hat sie stets, der Treue, gar freundlich heimgesucht. Längst ehe wir die Bitten gestammelt um das Brot, kam Gott schon selbst inmitten und half uns aus der Not. Er hat mit seiner Güte auch täglich mich gespeist, erquickt mein matt Gemüte, erfrischt mein’n Leib und Geist. Darum will ich ihm danken mit allem, was ich hab’, ihm, der mir ohne Schranken aus Liebe alles gab. Mason Woods Village 13422 Clayton Road Corner of Mason and Clayton Road, right above Straub’s! 314-434-3554 Call for showroom hours or visit us on the web: www.almosteurope.com Page 10 Und alle Erde preise den wunderbaren Gott für aller Erde Speise, für unser täglich Brot. Arno Pötzsch 1900-1956 November 2010 Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein German Christmas Celebration Page 11 Volume 10-3 November 2010 Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein Volume 10-3 Victor J. Wendl, MBA, CFP®, ChFC Asset Management Retirement Planning Financial Planning Providing investment advice to members of the German Cultural Society for over 14 years. Wendl Financial Services, Inc. 7321 S. Lindbergh, Suite 208 Saint Louis, MO 63125 314-845-7979 800-473-2786 www.wendlfinancial.com vwendl@wendlfinancial.com Securities offered through Consolidated Financial Investments, Inc., member NASD, SIPC and MSRB. Page 12 November 2010 Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein Volume 10-3 Report from the Volkstanzgruppe The Volkstanzgruppe enjoyed another exciting and busy Fall Fest Season! 4416 Highway 21 - Imperial, MO 63052 Various performances around the area included the St. Theresa’s Polka Mass and Parish Picnic in Belleville, IL, St. Charles Oktoberfest, St. Louis Strassenfest, and Soulard Oktoberfest. We also hope everyone enjoyed themselves as much as we did at our own DKV Oktoberfest! We continue to be at least 20 dancers strong and welcome new dancers as we will begin adding new dances for next year. One last performance for the year will include a short trip to Altenburg, MO. We wish everyone a wonderful holiday season and we’ll see you soon. Monika Lorenz Vice-President Greg A. Cole, Vice President Claude A. Cole, President (636) 296-5149 Fax: (636) 296-5152 Hours: 7:30-5:00 M-F 7:30-Noon Saturday Closed Sunday Complete line of building materials Fully stocked hardware store Personal service Report from the Middle Dance Group The Middle Dance Group has enjoyed a full fall schedule! We’ve performed at Kirchweih, our Oktoberfest at Donau-Park, St. Charles Oktoberfest, German American Day, Strassenfest, and they will wrap up their season at the St. Margaret Mary Church Oktoberfest. One of the highlights of the season was performing at the German American Day celebration on Oct. 2. We are pleased to be invited to this every year. We are challenged to learn a dance to live music for next year. At the end of the evening, 11 dancers and 2 youth group dancers along with myself and my husband, John stayed the night (sleepover) at the hall. We played games till midnight and I couldn’t believe how much fun we all had. 24-Hour Service Design and Build Commercial & Industrial Electrical Contractors We will be working on our final dance for membership night, Dec. 4 next. Thank you to Moni, all the parents, grandparents and the great support I receive from members of the society. Ruth Vanderpluym Dance Group Coordinator Gerhard Glassl 3630 South Broadway, St. Louis, MO 63118 Phone: (314) 865-3888 Fax: (314) 865-3301 Page 13 Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein November 2010 Compliments of the Suntrup Family Suntrup Nissan 6000 S. Lindbergh St. Louis, MO 63123 314-892-8200 Suntrup Kia 3705 Lemay Ferry Road St. Louis, MO 63125 314-894-2311 Report from the Chorus We just completed a successful Liederabend under the leadership of our new director, Peggy Pancella. Many of the comments after our performance credited our new director for making our concert so enjoyable. Although our attendance could have been better, we felt that it was a good evening, and I thank everyone who supported us, especially members of our Volkstanzgruppe. Besides our director, I would like to sincerely thank the Deutschmeister Brass Band for playing so well for our dancing enjoyment, and the Kitchen staff for the delicious dinner. Special mention goes to our soloists, Barbara Potje, Karen Tones, Friedel Geissert, and Mike Kimbrell, who added variety to our offerings. John Unterreiner made us sound better than ever, and our decorating committee made our hall look ever so festive. Our singers themselves put great effort and time into doing our songs correctly, especially “Blue Johnny”, which was a total departure from our usual fare. So, all in all, I would say that we can be pleased with our performance. Suntrup Hyundai 5926 S. Lindbergh St. Louis, MO 63123 314-892-2552 Suntrup Volkswagen 6000 S. Lindbergh St. Louis, MO 63123 314-892-8200 www.suntrupnissan.com www.suntrupvw.com www.suntruphyundai.com www.suntrupkia.com We want your business and we’ll earn it Frank Rohatsch, Consultant H. Joseph Rohatsch, Owner Joseph M. Rohatsch, Manager Volume 10-3 In addition to preparation for our Liederabend, we prepared for a performance at Lincoln University in Jefferson City, the week prior to our concert. Mary Lee Wolf directed and accompanied us for this event. The Spitzbuam and we put on a good show, and it was fun to do. Everyone enjoyed it. We are now preparing for the Totengedenktag on November 7th, where the Männerchor will be joining us this year, and after that we are looking at our Christmas performances. New singers, (Hello, Volkstanzgruppe) are always welcome and needed. Please call 314-842-6798 or e-mail me at William.tullmann@att.net for more information. We wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving, a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Katherine Tullmann FRANK’S A UT O BOD Y, INC. AUT UTO BODY 3rd Generation of Collision Repair We specialize in unibody car repair with bench frame system and complete refinishing P.S.: There is also a pictorial report from Liederabend und Tanz on page 24 of this newsletter. 1701 Lemay Ferry Road St. Louis, MO 63125 (314) 631-4884 • (314) 631-3018 Fax: (314) 638-7947 Page 14 November 2010 Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein Volume 10-3 New Year’s Eve Party German Cultural Society Friday, December 31, 2010 DKV-Hall, 3652 South Jefferson Avenue Admission of $40.00 per person includes Dinner: from 6:00 to 8:00 Happy Hour: 6:00 to 7:00 Beer & Setups, Hats & Noisemakers Midnight Buffet Dance to the music of the Wendl Band For tickets or information call Maria Thalheimer: 314-842-0332 or Ursula Fox: 314-843-4073 Page 15 Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein November 2010 Volume 10-3 Nikolaus Lenau eigentlich: Nikolaus Franz Niembsch, ab 1820 Edler von Strehlenau Geboren am 13.8.1802 in Csatád (Lenauheim) bei Temesvár; gestorben am 22.8.1850 in Oberdöbling bei Wien. In früheren Ausgaben brachten wir den ersten und den fünften Teil der Schilflieder; folgend sind nun alle fünf Teile. Schilflieder 1. Drüben geht die Sonne scheiden, Und der müde Tag entschlief. Niederhangen hier die Weiden In den Teich, so still, so tief. Und ich mein, ich höre wehen Leise deiner Stimme Klang Und im Weiher untergehen Deinen lieblichen Gesang. Und ich muß mein Liebstes meiden: Quill, o Träne, quill hervor! Traurig säuseln hier die Weiden, Und im Winde bebt das Rohr, 4. Sonnenuntergang; Schwarze Wolken ziehn, O wie schwül und bang Alle Winde fliehn! In mein stilles, tiefes Leiden Strahlst du, Ferne! hell und mild, Wie durch Binsen hier und Weiden Strahlt des Abendsternes Bild. 2. Durch den Himmel wild jagen Blitze, bleich; Ihr vergänglich Bild Wandelt durch den Teich. Trübe wirds, die Wolken jagen, Und der Regen niederbricht, Und die lauten Winde klagen: “Teich, wo ist dein Sternenlicht?” Wie gewitterklar Mein ich dich zu sehn Und dein langes Haar Frei im Sturme wehn! Suchen den erloschnen Schimmer. Tief im aufgewühlten See. Deine Liebe lächelt nimmer Nieder in mein tiefes Weh! 5. 3. Auf dem Teich, dem regungslosen, Weilt des Mondes holder Glanz, Flechtend seine bleichen Rosen In des Schilfes grünen Kranz. Auf geheimem Waldespfade Schleich ich gern im Abendschein An das öde Schilfgestade, Mädchen, und gedenke dein! Hirsche wandeln dort am Hügel, Blicken in die Nacht empor; Manchmal regt sich das Geflügel Träumerisch im tiefen Rohr. Wenn sich dann der Busch verdüstert, Rauscht das Rohr geheimnisvoll, Und es klaget, und es flüstert, Daß ich weinen, weinen soll. Weinend muß mein Blick sich senken; Durch die tiefste Seele geht Mir ein süßes Deingedenken, Wie ein stilles Nachtgebet! Page 16 Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein November 2010 Volume 10-3 Get your gang together and join us for The Garden Club ? Summer DKV yardening (the actual date I wrote this was 8/1, so the following will make sense. By the time this article goes out we WILL be wearing sweaters, long johns, even coats, brrrr.) A very short “yardening” message. Hot, was it wet??? It is hot right now as I’m keying (91°F or 31C if you prefer). The 31 wouldn’t interest me at all. Can’t turn either one of those around as if it stated say 36. 63 would be acceptable, but wait a minute now I have to run for a sweater and long pants. Darn are we humans ever happy with the weather? If the sun’s out, we want it cloudy. It’s cloudy and we’re looking for a slight temperature increase. If it rains we can’t garden, if the sun’s out, it’s too hot. Darn, again. TRIVIA NITE As I’m writing this we’re gearing up for the Strassenfest at the end of next week. Yes I know there’s no gardening in that but we also do the decorating, so let’s see what we’ll manage to contrive. We do use flowers. Oops sorry they’re going to be artificial. Don’t want any actual dirt around the vittles now, do we? Hey and guess what (now that it’s the week AFTER) we won 3rd prize. See trophy at the hall. Saturday, March 12, 2011 DKV-Hall Doors open at 6:00 p.m. Trivia begins at 7:00 p.m. Folks herewith I’m wishing you a Happy Everything! A good time will be had by all! Come to play or just come to enjoy the evening! Becky Arts & Crafts Group Cash Prizes 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place (aka Bastelgruppe) We are enjoying our get-togethers and are producing some beautiful carousels and other creations. German-American Day brought us several orders, and we are diligently working on those. New crafters are always welcome. Please call 314-842-6798, or e-mail me at William.tullmann@att.net for more information. $80.00 per table (8 per table maximum) Admission includes soda, popcorn and pretzels. Mixed drinks, wine, beer available for purchase. We wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving, a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. For reservations contact: Maria Thalheimer: 314-842-0332 or Ursula Fox: 314-843-4073 Katherine Tullmann Games · 50/50 Drawing· Attendance Prizes Page 17 November 2010 Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein Volume 10-3 Dreaming of a Vacation? If you can dream it, we can plan it! Residential • Commercial Our passion for travel and skill for planning allows you to enjoy the best travel opportunities available. Our affiliation with Virtuoso, the most respected travel network in North America, opens doors to travel opportunities not available to other travelers. Althoff Contracting, Inc. Asphalt Paving & Sealing (636) 677-8550 4620 Waldo Industrial Drive High Ridge, MO 63049 Where are you vacationing in 2010/11? Let us help you plan your vacation! MONIKA DYSART Travel Consultant Office: 636.227.9356 Toll Free: 800.808.0320 monika@sixthstartravel.com Orville Althoff • Jim Althoff HELGA THALHEIMER Travel Consultant Office: 314.255.2113 Toll Free: 866.485.8175 helga@sixthstartravel.com Blumenhof Vineyards & Winery “On the Katy Trail“ - “On the Missouri Weinstrasse“ Hwy. 94 – P.O. Box 30 • Dutzow, Missouri 63342 Unabhängige Zeitung für Deutschsprechende Politik, Wirtschaft, Kultur und Perspektiven An independent voice for German speaking people everywhere Politics, Business, Culture and Perspectives Published in Canada Adresse: 20355 Laidlaw Street South Cannington, Ontario, Canada L0E 1E0 Verlag: Klugmann Communications Inc. Hrsg.: Juri Klugmann Ersch.: monatlich Gegr.: Mai 1997 Telefon: (705) 432-2500 Fax: (705) 432-2800 E-Mail: klugmann@deutsche-rundschau.com Web: www.deutsche-rundschau.com Less than a half hour drive from Chesterfield, Blumenhof Winery is located in the village of Dutzow on scenic Missouri Highway 94, just 7 miles west of Augusta. Blumenhof is also convenient for bicyclists and hikers who enjoy the new Katy Trail, which passes along the grounds of the winery. Gemütlichkeit ist unsere Spezialität Septoberfest: In the Fall of each year, Blumenhof features Septoberfest every weekend in September and October Monday-Saturday: 10:30 to 5:30 • Sunday: Noon to 5:30 1-800-419-2245 www.blumenhof.com Page 18 November 2010 Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein Volume 10-3 Report from the Senioren After a short summer break we are in full swing of things with the Senioren Afternoon. We are happy to see all of our friends on the second Tuesday of every month. In October we were celebrating Apple and Fall Season. November we will celebrate Thanksgiving. December we have Christmas Luncheon at 12:00 p.m. There will not be a Senioren Afternoon held in January. We always enjoy hearing about upcoming events and listing to poems that John Pappert reads to us. Every month we have a short program, then we serve delicious desserts. The Senioren Committee wishes everyone a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Rose Lengenfelder 314-631-4364 MEET THE SENIOREN COMMITTEE From left to right: Anni Ruppe, Anni Rohatsch, Caroline Messmer, Käthe Fritz, Rose Lengenfelder, Anni Pappert, Traudl Lasinski and Becky Haas. Page 19 November 2010 Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein Page 20 Volume 10-3 November 2010 Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein Volume 10-3 The Jugendgruppe of the German Cultural Society cordially invites you to their annual Rosenball Saturday, March 5, 2011, 8:00 p.m. Kitchen opens at 6:00 p. m. DKV-Hall, 3652 South Jefferson Avenue Music by: Die Spitzbuam Admission: $ 10.00 For tickets and reservations call Maria Thalheimer: 842-0332 or Usula Fox: 843-4073 Traditional German Food & Drink Page 21 November 2010 Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein Volume 10-3 Maria’s Memoirs - Short Stories from my Youth By Maria Bappert Adventures of the Girl from Weindorf Yes, “Weindorf” means “Wine Village.” It is located on the southern outskirts of the Carpathian Mountains, and Budapest and the Danube River are beautifully visible from the edge of the town. The slopes of the mountains made it a perfect scenario to grow grapes. Most of the villagers were very proficient in the art of growing grapes and making wines. If my memory serves me correct, the wine industry was introduced to the region by the Romans as they conquered many lands in Europe during their heydays. Well, we are grateful to you! As a matter of fact, on one of our visits to Hungary we found out that a Roman administration center was located just outside of present-day Budapest. The complex was excavated and can be viewed. Some of the artifacts from the Roman occupation are displayed in an underground tunnel near the station where we caught the bus going to Weindorf when we toured Hungary a number of years ago. If you are into antiquities, this is a sight to behold. Csolnok, the village that my father came from (it’s located near Estergom), also had a great wine industry. As I mentioned before, during the summer months my father, Josef Putz, would take me along when he took the horse and wagon to his home town where we picked up a supply of coal for the winter months and we stayed with his family. His father, Michael Putz, was a wealthy man. He had a big beautiful house and owned quite a bit of land, including some vineyards. His first wife had died, and his second wife was a midwife by profession. When one of his kids got married, he built them a house as a wedding present! Wow! The family had several servants who worked in various capacities, one of whom was the maid who served us dinner and beverages. On one such occasion, she had put a bottle of wine on the table, and my grandfather poured me a half a glass of wine. We waited for the maid to bring a bottle of “Sprudelwasser” (seltzer water) from the cellar so that we could add it to our wine, which is the way we used to drink it (even us little kids); however, when she didn’t come with the seltzer water, I was so thirsty that I just drank my wine without the water. About twenty years ago, various “wine coolers” became very popular in the US, and everyone thought it was such a novel idea. Well … our people did that many, many years ago. On Sunday mornings, there was this definite routine which was observed by the families in Csolnok. Since the main cooked meal was always served at noon, the women went to the early Mass, and the men went to the later Mass. I got to go to church with my Opa (probably to get me out of Oma’s way) and I was in for a special surprise! The priest also happened to be a relative of mine by the name of Reichenbach, and after Mass the men met in the sacristy and discussed whose wine they were going to taste before returning home to eat. Once they decided who was going to host the wine tasting, the group, including Fr. Reichenbach, went to the wine cellar which was usually built into the side of the mountains which were in the area and where the temperature was wonderfully cool during the summer months. Our host poured the wine for his guests, including a small glass for the young visitor from Weindorf. After having lived in the US for a while, I came to the conclusion that this was the Hungarian version of the “cocktail” or “happy hour.” Then it was time to go home for a delicious lunch and more wine. One summer (I must have been 5 or 6 years old at the time) when I got to spend time with my grandparents in Csolnok there was a lot of excitement going on in the village. Someone grabbed my hand and dragged me along to the center of town where a lot of people were assembled. There was a great deal of excitement in the air as people were gathered around a large round wooden barrel which was set on some stones or other supports (I don’t recall this part of it), and from where I was standing I could not really see what was inside this wooden container until … yipes! … someone had lifted me up and virtually threw me into the barrel. It scared the hell out of me because I landed inside the barrel which was filled with a lot of red grapes, at least 6" high or so, and low and behold, there were other kids in there already, and they were all stomping the grapes! I quickly recovered from my initial shock of being thrown into the barrel, lifted my skirt, and started stomping the grapes too. Good grief, I hadn’t even washed my feet! Of course, it was very common for people to walk around barefoot in the village. As you can see, I just loved visiting my relatives in Csolnok! Russians invade our wine cellar! I was back home in Weindorf, and the Russians had made themselves comfortable in various houses in the village. The year was 1944. My parents owned a combination dry goods and grocery store, which my mother had inherited from her parents. Of course it included a cellar where things that needed to be kept cold were stored. On one Page 22 Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein November 2010 occasion there were three or four Russian soldiers who came into the store and demanded to know where our wine was kept. (They did have a reputation for liking vodka and all kinds of alcohol and were also known to cause all kinds of nasty problems when they had too much to drink.) Not wanting any trouble, they were directed to the cellar. They picked one of the barrels and poured themselves what they thought was white wine. They waited until everyone had a glass in their hand, made a toast and drank a bit of VINEGAR! Well, there was a great deal of cussing going on in that cellar. Luckily, they did not take any kind of revenge on us as they did find the correct barrel. Let’s face it … not all wine turned out good and sometimes we did have some sour wine, but most of it was pretty good. Prost! We drink to your good health! An easy way to remember temperature conversions in ºF & ºC If you can remember that 77º F = 25º C, you’ve got it almost made. From that point of reference, every 9º change in ºF equals a 5º change in ºC. For instance, 77º F + 9º F = 86º F = 25º C + 5º C = 30º C. Subtraction works the same way. It is that simple. Following is a table that shows temperature ranges for summer and winter in increments of 9º F and 5º C. ºF -40 -31 -22 -13 -4 5 14 23 32 41 50 59 68 77 86 95 104 = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = ºC -40 -35 -30 -25 -20 -15 -10 -5 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 Volume 10-3 Ein Dörflein in der Heide Ein Dörflein in der Heide, vom Zauber je umhüllt, bot uns im Frühlingskleide das schönste Märchenbild. Da schneit’ es Apfelblüten ringsum die Gärten dicht. Ein Mädchenherz zu hüten fiel schwerer ins Gewicht. Der Wein, die Kletterrosen umrankten Haus und Dach. Beim Küssen und beim Kosen ging man dem Scherzen nach. Und wenn die Abendsonne entschwand am Firmament, war noch voll Lust und Wonne, der Tag, und fand kein End. Dann legte sich die Stille sanft über Hof und Haus. Es zirpte noch die Grille, und Licht um Licht ging aus. Nun scheint der Mond ins Zimmer, drin sclief mal ich und du. Für uns schließt bald für immer ein Dorf die Augen zu. Gertrud Lauer geboren in Sackelhausen jetzt wohnhaft in Reutlingen - nm Page 23 November 2010 Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein Volume 10-3 Photo Report: Liederabend und Tanz, Saturday, October 23, 2010, at our Hall on Jefferson Avenue Page 24 November 2010 Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein Volume 10-3 The German Cultural Society Youth group is proud to offer a treasured collection of 500 recipes from many outstanding cooks. The proceeds from the cookbook will go toward the 2014 Jugendgruppe trip to Deutschland. Please consider purchasing at least one for yourself and others for gifts in order to help the society in continuing our German heritage and culture for all of our younger dance group members. To order or for more information, please contact Rosemarie Ficken (314)487-3969, Monika Lorenz (314)-894-5561 or pick up a pre-order form at our Hall, fill it out and return to the German Cultural Society at 3652 S. Jefferson Ave., St. Louis, MO 63118 On behalf of the youth dance groups, we thank you in advance! Guten Appetit! Page 25 November 2010 Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein Volume 10-3 AW HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING Alfons Weigl, Jr. President Page 26 November 2010 Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein Volume 10-3 Wedding at Donau-Park A thank you card with photos was sent to Ralph. The note reads as follows: Dear Ralph, Thank you so much for all the hard work you did for us. Theresa’s day was made perfect for all the hard work our friends like you. Love, Doug & Jan Buffer. Page 27 November 2010 Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein Volume 10-3 “The HomeI always Wanted” A As one of South City’s long-established, non-profit senior living residences, the Altenheim is where you or your loved one can enjoy independence in a beautiful residential setting — regardless of future medical needs. The Altenheim is where care is as simple as assistance with daily activities in a homelike atmosphere with spacious private rooms. If more care is needed you can feel secure knowing our 24-hour nursing care team is here for you. The Altenheim’s private and semi-private rooms are complemented by a wonderful line of services at no extra cost. Plus, you’ll enjoy delicious meals in our lovely dining room overlooking the Mississippi River. Call now for your tour…314-353-7225. 5408 South Broadway www.altenheim-stlouis.com 20 minutes or less from anywhere in St. Louis with easy access from I-55 and I-44. Page 28 Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein November 2010 Volume 10-3 Kenrick’s Meats & Catering 4324 Weber Road, St. Louis, MO 63123 Phone: (314) 631-2440 - Fax: (314) 631-6452 www.kenricks.com Wir sind Ihre Party-Leute “We’re your Party People” Full Service Catering for All Occasions Weddings Rehearsals Showers Anniversaries Family Gatherings Inquire about our Abundant Selection of Fine Foods Catering Pick-Up Delivery Available Box Lunches Gourmet Platters Hors D’oeuvres Kenrick is a proud affiliate of the German Cultural Society 4324 Weber Road, St. Louis, MO 63123 Phone: (314) 631-2440 - Fax: (314) 631-6452 www.kenricks.com Kenrick’s Meats & Catering Page 29 November 2010 Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein Volume 10-3 My Hobby by George Taubel I have been a stamp collector for many years; the hobby has given me a lot of pleasure and diversion. I have met a lot of nice people and corresponded with many collectors in foreign countries for years. I even visited some of them while traveling in Europe and was welcomed warmly. I started stamp collecting about the time I attended Grade School. In our village we spoke only German. The classes were taught in German and the subjects were history, poetry and grammar. We even had to learn to write in the old Gothic script and since the Cyrillic letters were the official alphabet of the country, we had to be able to read and write it also. In daily usage the “Latin” lettering was in use – actually, we had to know three alphabets. Most of the older men of our village had served in the AustroHungarian Army and were stationed all over the Empire. They sent letters and postcards home which were eventually stored in attics and other out-of-the-way places. I started rummaging through our attic and found many interesting things, amongst them old letters, postcards and documents with stamps on them. The stamps showed pictures of kings, cities, countries, different people in various clothing and other fascinating things. I asked my friends to look for letters and postcards and let me have them. I collected the stamps on my own initiative without knowing how to save, display or store them. I tried to peel the stamps off the envelopes but did not succeed, I only tore up the stamps. I cut off the comers with the stamps and put them away. Once, when rummaging through my hoard, one stamp still on paper, fell into a wash basin and when I removed it I could easily peel the paper off its back. When dry I stored them in books to keep them flat. I had no idea how to store and display my stamps, there was nobody around who could tell me as stamp collecting was not known in our area. When I completed Grade School and there was no higher school in our village I was enrolled in high school in a nearby city. I walked to school, it was not far away. The only time it was uncomfortable was during inclement weather. The school I attended was only taught in Croatian and I had a rough time, discipline was strongly enforced and it was not unusual to get slapped in the face. At the time political tensions rose and there was talk of war. Ever since the state of Yugoslavia was established a noticeable trend of Pan Slavism was evident. Some teachers indicated that our ancestors were settled there to take the land over. Towards the end of my first year of High School war broke out and our area was occupied by the German Army. A German High School was established and German speaking students from surrounding villages were urged to transfer to the German school from the Croatian School. A director from Vienna was hired for the school. Because there were a lot of German speaking students from the surrounding villages all lessons were conducted in German. As time went by living conditions became more and more difficult, particularly as food was concerned. It was too far to go home for lunch so my mother fixed lunch for me which consisted mostly of homemade bread and homemade smoked cold cuts. My Sandwich could be smelled in the whole classroom and made the hungry city dwellers drool. One day I was approached by one of the boys who told me he had heard that I was a stamp collector and offered me five stamps for part of my sandwich. I agreed to the trade and he gave me five stamps every day. Living conditions in our area became worse every day. Guerillas attacked villages, blew up railroad tracks and made life miserable. In late 1944, I was ordered to report to the Croatian Labor Service; I was 16 years old at the time. While I was gone my parents were forced to flee from our village and I lost contact with them. When the war was over I searched for my family and finally found them in Steyr, Austria. One day I ran into the boy who had traded stamps for food and we talked about our wartime experiences. He asked me what happened to my stamps and I told him they were lost like all of our possessions. He said he was an altar boy while we were at school and helped the priest on every morning to get ready for mass. Every day he stole 5 stamps from the priest’s collection and gave them to me as a trade for part of my Sandwich. We lived in Austria for seven years, and then immigrated to the United States. After I learned to speak English, I started to look for stamp collectors. I found several collectors clubs and joined the “Germany Philatelic Society”, I have been a member for 40 years and have enjoyed my association with the friendly and helpful members. Page 30 November 2010 Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein Our own stories: Humor by accident The German Immigrants and the English Language Lady, you’ve got a big foot Man erzählt hier von einer nicht mehr allzu jungen donauschwäbischen Landsfrau, die erst kurze Zeit im Land war und sich Schuhe kaufen wollte. Wo der Schuhladen war, wusste sie schon, weil ihr Weg zur Arbeit doch dort fast vorbeiführte. Sie konnte aber nur einige Worte Englisch, der Verkäufer kaum ein Wort Deutsch, und vom ‘Schwowische’ hatte der überhaupt keine Ahnung. ,,Ich breicht halt a Paar Schuh”, sagte die Frau und zeigte auf ihre Füße. Sie hatte sich die Geste ruhig ersparen können, denn der Begriff hört sich auf deutsch und englisch fast gleich an, und schließlich war es ja ein Schuhgeschäft. “You need a pair of shoes”, sagte der Mann freundlich und zeigte auf einen Stuhl. “Please have a seat!” Volume 10-3 Das hätte er nicht sagen sollen. Es war, als ob der Blitz eingeschlagen hätte, als ob die gläsernen Schuhe plötzlich in tausend Scherben zerbrochen waren. Denn die Alte, überzeugt, dass sich die Bemerkung des Verkäufers nicht auf ihren Fuß, sondern auf einen anderen Teil ihrer Anatomie bezog, schaute den Kerl ein bisschen schief an und sagte verbissen: ,,Gell, du Schwein, du hascht g’schaut!” Und schon hatte sie ihren alten Schuhe wieder an und war aus dem Laden verschwunden. Inzwischen stand der Verkäufer da, wie man in Sacklas sagt, wie die Kuh vorm neije Tor. “It must have been something I said”, sagte er, “but what?” Im Nu saß er vor ihr auf einem kleinen Hocker und half ihr die Schuhe auszuziehen, um ein besseres Bild zu bekommen, wie groß die neuen Schuhe eigentlich sein sollten. “Boy”, dachte er, “she’s got some dandies!” Das waren schon so richtige Flossen, kurz und breit. Weder DIN noch irgendeine amerikanische Norm hatte diese Größe erfasst. Sie schaute sich auch ihre Füße an und sie wusste, dass sie etwas breiter waren. Sie wollte es ja auch dem Verkäufer erklären, doch der war inzwischen nach hinten gegangen um Schuhe zu holen und sie konnte es ihm sowieso nicht verständlich machen. Und so redete sie halt mit sich selbst: ,,Ja, wann mer sei halwes Lewe en de Bluchbatsche uffm Hottar rumgelaaf is ...” Bevor sie aber den Satz zu Ende bringen konnte, war der Verkäufer wieder da. “Well, let’s try these.” Er hatte drei verschiedene Schachteln Schuhe mitgebracht. Er versuchte dieses Paar, dann das nächste und das nächste. Soviel sich die beiden auch bemühten, sie konnten die Schuhe nicht ankriegen. Diese waren schon eineinhalb englische Nummern länger als sie sein sollten, waren aber noch immer zu eng. Da fiel dem Verkäufer plötzlich die englische Version des deutschen Märchens Aschenbrödel ein und er konnte das Grinsen kaum verbergen. “Glass slippers”, dachte er und versuchte, sich auf den Namen des Märchens zu erinnern. “Cinderella!”, fiel es ihm plötzlich ein und er lächelte, “Cinderella!”. Bevor er aber zurückging, um größere Schuhe zu holen, sagte er in seinem freundlichen Ton, aber immer noch lächelnd: “Lady, you’ve got a big foot!” Page 31 [Editorial comment: He will never know.] A true story, somewhat enhanced as retold by Nikolaus Messmer. Die Staatsbirgerpriefung von Hans Wolfram Hockl Schun zehn Johr en Amerika un noch ke Citizen! Jetz werr ich eich mol weise, was ich forr Njuhkam1 sen! So saat die Bässl Bärbl un geht zum Stadthaus nin mit schwarzm Rock un Kopptuch un schwowisch feschtm Sinn. Sie weess die ganze Gsetze, die hat se gut gelernt, die Gschicht, die Stadt, die Staate von näkscht und weit entfernt. Uffmol da froot de Richter em grosse stille Saal: Wer war im Freiheitskampfe der größte General? Da ruft die Bässl Bärbl un macht zwaa Schritte vor: Des war, des war, Herr Richter, der General Motor! 1 newcomer Reprinted from previous Newsletter November 2010 Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein Volume 10-3 Our own stories: Humor by accident The German Immigrants and the English Language My first business trip When I came to this country in 1958, I had already nine years of English in Austria, so I was sure, I should make it without too much trouble. Little did I know about the intricacies of English, the many idioms and local expressions of the spoken language. Within two weeks of arrival, I found a job with a small familyowned manufacturing firm off South Broadway starting as a draftsman in the truck-body business which in German is known as Karosserie- und Fahrzeugbau. The owner and his wife worked there in the office, and so did three other relatives. There were also five non-relatives, including me, the guy with the heavy non-Irish brogue. The company structure was simple: the owner ran the company, the relatives did the accounting work, and the outsiders ran Engineering, Sales, and Production. They were all extremely nice to me, and things worked out well. But it didn’t take me long to run into some trouble. They all addressed the owner’s wife, who was about my mother’s age, by her first name, and that is how she was introduced to me. I should have caught on at that time, but it sounded disrespectful to me, and I simply could not do that. I felt much more comfortable to address her with the French title of honor, Madame, followed by her last name, as in Madame Curie, for instance. That form of address was at the time quite customary in Europe in situations like that. After addressing her a few times in that format, she looked at me over her glasses and waved me over to her desk. “Nick”, she said smiling, “I know you mean well, but would you please stop calling me madam?” There were only a few people in the office at that time. She must have chosen that moment so that she could tell me something that not everybody else would hear. “Would you do me a favor and call me by my first name?” After I got home that evening, I grabbed my dog-eared Langenscheidt Dictionary and looked up that word, the French and the English version. It was, as I knew it, in the first and second definition a polite and respectful term of address for a woman, but the third English definition read something like “the woman in charge of a house of prostitution’. That part I didn’t know. They must really have kidded her about the title that little Kraut had bestowed upon her. When on the next day she came by my drawing board and said, good morning, Nick, I turned around and said, good morning, Catherine. She smiled, and we got along beautifully ever since. The company was building a plant in southern Missouri and I had to go along for a three-day visit. There were three of us: The man in charge of Engineering and Production, his assistant, and I came along for the ride without a specific assignment. We left after work in one car and stopped at the halfway mark for dinner. They ordered T-bone steaks; one ordered his rare, the other medium-well. I had no idea what that was all about. They didn’t have steaks in Sacklas. The cows were primarily raised for the production of milk. Only after they were beyond that stage were they sold to the butcher and used for meat. That was one tough cut of beef. But I have to say that after boiling it for a few hours, it made very good Rindsuppe (beef soup), especially when served with homemade noodles or Grießknödeln (semolina dumplings). But the meat was tough. Franz Dimster coined the appropriate term, Gummifleisch (rubber meat). Yet, when served with boiled potatoes and an abundant supply of ‘Gappersoss’ (dill sauce), it made a delicious meal. The waiter wanted to know how I would like to have my steak done. The boss had ordered his rare (which I translated as selten), his assistant medium-well (halb gut), so I reasoned why not go all out and order mine very well (ganz gut). The waiter grinned. He said that their cook had unintentionally burned a few steaks beyond recognition, but officially their highest degree of doneness was well done. That was fine with me. The steaks looked and smelled great when they served them sizzling on hot platters with baked potatoes on the side. We were hungry, and we dug right in. My steak was a little darker than the rest of them, but I ate the whole thing, fat and all, ‘rumps und stumps’ as they would have said in Sacklas, only the bone was left over. That’s how we were taught at home: you eat everything on your plate. My mother would have been proud of me. Not much was said during dinner. I watched my companions finish their meal and could not help to observe - what seemed then to me - their awkward and inefficient way of eating. They cut one or two bite-size pieces of steak off, laid the knife down, transferred the fork to their right hand, and ate. Then, the process started all over again until they were done with their meal. The German procedure is more direct and efficient: The fork is held in the left hand, the knife in the right, and they stay there until a particular course, requiring both utensils, has been eaten. Of course today, my visiting relatives from Germany must have similar thoughts about my eating habits. Page 32 November 2010 Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein After dinner, we continued our drive to the small town in southern Missouri where our new plant was under construction. We checked in at a local motel and went right to bed. We were to meet at 6:30 for breakfast; wake-up calls were set for 6:00 a.m. I got up on time, but regardless how many knobs I turned, the shower produced only cold water. I didn’t call the Front Desk because I did not know the English word for shower and I didn’t have my dictionary with me. In German, it’s Dusche, and in French, it is douche. Surely, they wouldn’t use the German name, but French had some possibilities. I showered in cold water, and went downstairs. My companions were already there. I told them what had happened. They just laughed: This guy is something else! Last night, he ate like Jack Sprat and his wife (I learned later, this was a reference to a nursery rhyme which goes something like this: Jack Sprat could eat no fat / his wife could eat no lean / and so betwixt them both you see / they licked the platter clean), and this morning, he took a douche. They still laughed as we drove to work, and I laughed right along with them. There is no better way to defuse a situation when the joke’s on you. This can only happen in America. Despite of my obvious shortcomings, they gave me more than an equal opportunity to learn and to work, to fail and to achieve. I rose through the ranks and eventually became President of the corporation, which by then had an impressive product line and had grown to about 500 employees. Nikolaus Messmer. ‘Umlaute’ on the standard US-keyboard Hold down the Alt-key while entering a three-digit code on the numeric keypad on the right side of the keyboard; when the alt-key is released, the Umlaut or special character appears: Alt + 132 = ä Alt + 148 = ö Alt + 129 = ü Alt + 225 = ß Alt + 142 = Ä Alt + 153 = Ö Alt + 154 = Ü Volume 10-3 At the Old Grave In Memory of My Grandmother 1995 Today I place a bouquet of flowers on your grave, as a sign of my love for you. The years have passed by so quickly; one year followed another - almost unnoticed. Your life had not been an easy one, you experienced two wars, the loss of your husband, in WWI, WWII brought you more sadness in losing your family to the west, and being dispossessed of everything you ever worked for. Your forced resettlement to the Baragan Steppe, at the age of seventy, (where you lost your second husband) and your return after five years, stripped you of all dignity. Yet, you remained strong and faithful. The return of your family to their former home was impossible. Our hearts were filled with sadness, knowing that you and the other elderly were left behind and unaided. By now, the sun has faded your name on your headstone. The letters filled with moss are unclear. I will clean them and make them readable once more. Today I have come back to thank you for all you did for us during your lifetime. Your loved ones have found a new home and built a new life in America, in the way we were taught by you - to be faithful, honest, hard working and loyal. We became law abiding citizens and raised our families in the Christian traditions you placed in our cradle; they were important to you and they are important to us. We continue to live our lives as you did, respecting our neighbors and their traditions. Our family is well and we speak of you often. We want you to know, that God has blessed us in many ways. I want to tell you of my admiration and gratitude for you and my ancestors - I will tell my children and grandchildren of your bravery and loyalty. As I leave, I’ll say good bye and join the others in my new home in America. The three-digit code referenced above is technically referred to as the ASCII-code. Reprinted from DKV-Newsletter 2000-2 May you rest in peace and may God grant you everlasting life, of which you are so deserving. Until we meet again, I remain your loving granddaughter. Page 33 Catherine Grosskopf. November 2010 Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein Volume 10-3 Photo Report: Oktoberfest at Donau-Park, Saturday & Sunday, October 11 & 12, 2010 Page 34 November 2010 Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein Photo Report: Jugendgruppe as guests at the St. Louis Cardinals Page 35 Volume 10-3 November 2010 Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein Volume 10-3 Am 28. Oktober 1886 enthüllte US-Präsident Stephen Grover Cleveland auf einer Insel in der Einfahrt zum New Yorker Hafen ein Bauwerk, das seitdem als Symbol der Vereinigten Staaten bekannt ist: Die “Freiheitsstatue”, ursprünglich genannt “Freiheit, die Welt erleuchtend”, war ein Geschenk Frankreichs an die “Neue Welt”. 28.10.1886: Freiheitsstatue eingeweiht Tagebucheintrag der Familie Schmolensky vom 3. Dezember 1894: “Wir standen an Bord und versuchten durch den Nebel hindurch etwas zu sehen. Und plötzlich rief einer, ‘Da ist sie!’, und dann sahen wir sie alle, die Freiheitsstatue! Und wir wussten jetzt sind wir in Amerika.” “Amerika! - Amerika! Amerika! Amerika!” Da stand sie damals und steht sie bis heute, die Freiheitsstatue, “Miss Liberty”, wie die Amerikaner sagen, im Hafen von New York City. Millionen von Einwanderern haben sie gesehen und ihr ihre Hoffnungen entgegen gerufen. Und sie wiederum hat Millionen nach wochenlangen Überfahrten getröstet, so wie es im Gedicht von Emma Lazarus, das im Sockel der Statue eingemeißelt ist, heißt: “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free. The wretched refuse of your teeming shore. Send these, the homeless, tempesttossed to me. I lift my lamp beside the golden door!” - “Gebt mir Eure müden, Eure armen, Eure kauernden Massen, die sich danach sehnen, frei zu atmen. Das elende Strandgut Eurer vor Menschen wimmelnder Küste. Schickt diese, die Heimatlosen, Schicksalsgebeutelten zu mir. Ich erhebe mein Licht an der goldenen Tür!” Als die Schmolenskys 1894 aus Polen in die USA einwandern, ist die Statue gerade acht Jahre alt. Damals wie heute ist sie das größte Denkmal der Neuzeit. Von Kopf bis Fackel misst sie 46 Meter. Sie ist ein Geschenk der Franzosen an die Amerikaner als Erinnerung an die Französisch- Amerikanische Freundschaft während der Amerikanischen Revolution 17751783. Und sie erinnert mit großen Buchstaben auf der Tafel im Arm der Miss Liberty an die Unabhängigkeitserklärung vom 4. Juli 1776. Doch zunächst war es schwierig die Amerikaner für die Idee einer Statue zu gewinnen. Während in Frankreich mit Lotteriegewinnen, öffentlichen Abgaben und Benefizveranstaltungen Geld gesammelt wurde, lief das Spendenaufkommen in den USA zunächst schleppend. Erst Joseph Pulitzer, deutscher Auswanderer und erster New Yorker Medienmogul, konnte mit großen Aufrufen die New Yorker und Amerikaner begeistern. In Frankreich war Frédéric-Auguste Bartholdi beauftragt worden, eine würdevolle Frauenstatue zu entwerfen. Vorbild, zumindest für das Gesicht war seine Mutter. Doch als Bartholdi mit den Größenausmaßen des Geschenks für die Amerikaner konfrontiert wurde, war ihm klar, dass auch ein Ingenieur benötigt wurde. Kein anderer als Gustave Eiffel, späterer Konstrukteur des Eiffelturms, stand ihm bei dem Mammutprojekt zur Seite. Eiffel ist es zu verdanken, dass hunderttausende Touristen jedes Jahr im Inneren der Lady Liberty nach oben steigen können. Er entwarf das Skelett der Statue, während Bartholdi für das Äußere zuständig war. Das Äußere, das sind 350 riesige Kupferplatten, die in 214 Kisten verpackt von Frankreich aus in New York im Juni 1885 eintrafen. Aber erst im Mai 1886 als der Sockel errichtet war, konnten die Einzelteile ausgepackt werden und Stück für Stück entstand vor den staunenden Augen der New Yorker ihr Nationaldenkmal. Vier Monate brauchte man zum Aufbau der Statue of Liberty. Dann war es soweit: 28. Oktober 1886—feierliche Einweihung! Präsident Grover Cleveland versprach an jenem Abend: “Wir werden nicht vergessen, dass die Freiheit hier ihre Heimat hat, und ihr Platz soll nicht vernachlässigt werden.” Doch der salzige Wind vom Atlantik, die Autoabgase aus Manhattan, die Kälte, die Hitze setzten dem Denkmal zu. Rostig, löcherig und schimmelig präsentierte sich die Statue in den 70’er Jahren. 1982 dann setzte Ronald Reagan die 100-Jahr Feier Vorbereitungskommission für die Freiheitsstatue ein. 1984 begannen die umfangreichen Renovierungsarbeiten, für die 230 Millionen Dollar an Spenden gesammelt worden waren. Zwei Jahre später, am Independence Day, dem 4. Juli 1986, hundert Jahre nach der feierlichen Einweihung, jubelte ganz Amerika der Statue zu. Seitdem strahlt sie in neuem Glanz und trägt ihr Licht wieder stolz vom Hafen in New York in alle Welt! Autor: Jens Teschke Page 36 www.kalenderblatt.de ist ein Angebot der Deutschen Welle (www.dw-world.de) November 2010 Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein Volume 10-3 Da waren Deutsche auch dabei Als Bettler sind wir nicht gekommen Aus unserem deutschen Vaterland. Wir hatten manches mitgenommen, Was hier noch fremd und unbekannt. Und als man schuf aus dichten Wäldern, Aus öder, düstrer Wüstenei Den Kranz von reichen Feldern, Da waren Deutsche auch dabei. Honorary Consul Lansing G. Hecker 330 Wenneker Drive St. Louis, Missouri 63124 USA Tel.: (314) 567-4601 Fax: (314) 567-1101 Jurisdiction: MISSOURI (except for counties Buchanan, Cass, Clay, Jackson, Platte) and ILLINOIS (counties St. Clair und East St. Louis) Honorary Consuls have an office where there is no diplomatic mission or consular post. They provide limited information, emergency assistance, and they can notarize signatures on official German documents (e.g. Lebensbescheinigung). However, they are not entitled to issue German visas or passports. You can contact the Chicago Consulate General, for the Federal Republic of Germany listed below for more information regarding visas, passports and other topics. Gar vieles, was in früheren Zeiten Ihr kaufen müsstet überm Meer, Das lehrten wir euch selbst bereiten, Wir stellten manche Werkstatt her. Oh, wagt es nicht dies zu vergessen, Sagt nicht, als ob das nicht so sei, Es künden’s tausend Feueressen. Da waren Deutsche auch dabei. Und was die Kunst und Wissenschaften Euch hier verlieh’n an Kraft und Stärk’, Es bleibt der Ruhm am Deutschen haften, Das Meiste war der Deutschen Werk. Und wenn aus vollen Tönen klinget Ans Herz des Liedes Melodei, Ich glaub’ von dem, was ihr da singet, Ist vieles Deutsche auch dabei. 676 N. Michigan Ave, Suite 3200 Chicago, IL 60611 Drum steh’n wir stolz auf festem Grunde. Den unsere Kraft der Wildnis nahm. Wie wär’s mit eurem Staatenbunde. Wenn nie zu euch ein Deutscher kam? Und wie in Bürgerkriegestagen, Ja schon beim ersten Freiheitsschrei: Wir dürfen’s unbestritten sagen, Da waren Deutsche auch dabei. Phone: (312) 202 0480 Fax: (312) 202 0466 Konrad Krez Consulate General of the Federal Republic of Germany geboren 1828 in Landau, gestorben 1897 in Milwaukee Page 37 November 2010 Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein Volume 10-3 NEW TEXTBOOKS Article furnished by the President of the German School Association, This year we are excited about the new textbook series being used - Geni@l in the children’s classes and Themen Aktuell in the adult classes. These textbook series present new and stimulating material while providing a solid structural basis. The material is culturally authentic and is designed to address different learning styles to accommodate all learners. These textbook series also adhere to both the U.S. National Standards and the European Standard (CEFR) and provide the basis for obtaining the Zertifikat Deutsch. Helga Thalheimer. NEWS FROM ZERTIFIKAT DEUTSCH 2010 / 11 SCHOOL YEAR The new school year began Saturday, September 11, 2010 as we welcomed back students from last year and many new students, in both the adult and children’s classes. Our latest enrollment figures show 120 students – 60 adults and 60 children. The Zertifikat Deutsch (ZD) is an internationally recognized exam of German language ability. It tests for a level of ability equivalent to level B1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) scale. The Zertifikat Deutsch exam is tailored to the needs of adult students and Zertifikat Deutsch für Jugendliche is tailored to adolescent students of German regardless of whether they are inside or outside a German-speaking country. Students qualified to take the Zertifikat Deutsch exam, in the adult and children’s classes will have the opportunity to do so at the end of the school year. The school offers 5 class levels for adults from Beginner to Advanced Conversation. The children’s classes offer Beginner to Advanced in two branches – one for German speakers and one for those learning German as a second language. NEW PRINCIPAL We welcome Daniela Müller-Williams as our new Principal. Daniela is a native speaker and also teaches the Advanced Children’s Class for fluent students. She brings with her a wealth of ideas and experience that will continue to grow and improve the school. In her years of service, Carmen Freeman, our former Principal, did much for the school during her tenure as Principal. We thank Carmen for the many innovations she brought to the German School - creating and adding new classes to meet the ever changing demands of the students, acquiring grants from the German government, and initiating the Frühstückskonzert. Carmen continues teaching the Advanced Adult class and we are fortunate to have her as part of our teaching staff. ZENTRALSTELLE FÜR DAS AUSLANDSCHULWESEN COMPETITION The students in the Advanced Children’s class have been chosen to participate in a contest offered by the German Government. The students will prepare a poster and a 3 - 5 minute oral presentation with the theme: GERMAN IN MY NEIGHBORHOOD. On November 6, two students from our school will be chosen to participate in the finals. The finals will held December 4-5 in Chicago and will be hosted by The German Consulate General. We wish the chosen students GOOD LUCK in this contest. NEW WEBSITE The German School Association is very excited to announce a new website is in development and we hope to have it online by the end of the year. The new website will be more userfriendly and will offer many new and exciting options for both students and website visitors. Page 38 Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein November 2010 General Comments Volume 10-3 Thanks for your help In eigener Sache We are thankful to all who submitted timely reports of their activities within the German Cultural Society. This is my last newsletter Sorry to say these words, but this is my last newsletter. I really enjoyed doing it, doing the complete package and taking it to the printer on a compact disk. I furnished most of the graphics and some of the photographs, but most of the photos were taken by others specially named in the thank-you section of our newsletter. After doing it for 15 years, it is simply time for the younger generation of our membership to take over and shape it in their own view. As I said in the last issue, there are no bad feelings that drive me to that decision, but I simply think it is time. My partner in all of this from the beginning was my good friend Sepp Neulinger. We’ve spent many hours together shaping the newsletter in its present form. He’s a wonderful and helpful person, knows just about every detail about the St. Louis operation of the German Cultural Society and its predecessor, the American Aid Society, and he’s just a good guy to have around. Sepp did the bilingual proofreading and the distribution to our members, advertisers and other interested parties. He will also stay with the new team for proofreading of the German texts. So everything should be in good hands. Our thanks go also to the many people furnishing digital photos, usually about events of the German Cultural Society. The main contributors were: Rosemarie Ficken, Monika Lorenz, Joseph Simon, Ruth Vanderpluym, Birgit Sterzl-McMullen and many others. As always, thanks for your special reports. Our thanks go to Catherine Grosskopf of Chicago for sharing with us her many poems and articles in German and English, and Maria Bappert, also of Chicago, for her short stories in her native Hungary; George Taubel for giving us glimpses of growing up in Neudorf in Yugoslavia, Joseph Simon for the many local and international stories, and articles about grapes, and Helga Thalheimer for her numerous articles about a variety of subjects, including word puzzles, Trivia-Nite, the German school, and pictorial questionnaires “are you in this picture?”. We also thank the many companies who advertise in our newsletter for defraying the cost of printing and distribution; their contribution really makes our newsletter possible. Please support our advertisers and tell them, you saw their ad in our newsletter. I almost forgot to mention Annerose Goerge who helped me, particularly in the beginning, to set up our newsletter similar to the Nachrichten, the newsletter of the Vereinigung der Donauschwaben in Chicago, which she issues 12 times a year. We exchange newsletters, swap articles, and I talk with Annerose several times a year; she is always very friendly and helpful. And last but certainly not least we thank the readers of our newsletter within or outside the membership of the German Cultural Society for their cooperation, encouragement and support; it is our hope that this helping hand will also be extended to the new newsletter team. Best wishes for continued success in keeping this thing going, Best wishes, Nick Messmer Nick Messmer. Membership dues How to contact the Newsletter Sepp Neulinger: 314-638-4861 or joeneulinger@att.net Nick Messmer: 314-843-4665 or nikomess@aol.net To appear in a certain issue, articles or comments must be received no later than: March 7 for the spring issue June 5th for the summer issue October 25 for the Thanksgiving issue The regular annual membership dues are $25.00 per person, dues for seniors (62 and older) $12.00. Dues may be paid in person or by check made out to “German Cultural Society” and mailed to: Kathy Stark 9533 Donalds Ct St. Louis, MO 63126 Thank you for your support which is needed und appreciated. Kathy Stark, Fin. Sec. Page 39 German Cultural Society NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID ST. LOUIS, MO PERMIT NO. 9 3652 South Jefferson Avenue St. Louis, MO 63118 Addressee or current occupant Newsletter Published by the German Cultural Society of St. Louis three times each year, and delivered to our members in the first week of April, in the weeks of Independence Day and Thanksgiving. Hall & Office Donau-Park Facilities in Jefferson County 5020 West Four Ridge Road, House Springs, MO 63051 Donau-Park Deutscher Kulturverein German Cultural Society Hall & Mailing Address: 3652 South Jefferson Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63118 Phone & Fax (314) 771-8368 Old Rte 21 - Shady Valley www.germanstl.org Directions: From I-44: Take I-44 to the Jefferson Exit. Head south on Jefferson. Go over Gravois Rd. About 2 miles past Gravois it will be on your left hand side. It is a block before where Jefferson, Broadway, and Chippewa come together. From I-55: Take I-55 northbound to the 4500 Broadway exit. Turn left. Proceed on Broadway to S. Jefferson. It will be a block up on the right, once on Jefferson. November 2010 Directions: From I-270, take Highway 21 south past Highway 141 to the 2nd exit, marked “Old Route 21 - Shady Valley”. Go south (left) on Old Rte 21 to West Four Ridge Road. Turn right. The entrance to Donau-Park is the first driveway at the right. Newsletter Deutscher Kulturverein Volume 10-3