Dank journal feb mar 2016

Proud To Be German - American Stolz Deutsch - Amerikaner Zu Sein Visit us at www.DANK.org

Volume 64 Number 1

Karneval in Milwaukee

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Contents of This Issue 4 5 6 7 8 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 30 32

From the President’s Desk by Michael Ianni Wordsearch – Stadt und Wahrzeichen Munich's Fasching celebration will end February 7 / Find out about Easter traditions in Germany!

Hop to it! Easter egg markets spring up all over Germany Bavaria, Germany, A Winter Wonderland

Editorial Staff Ronald Kabitzke Beverly Pochatko Eva Timmerhaus Christel Miske

History Class at DANK/Chicago explains German Hit song "Ach du lieber Augustin"!

Monthly Reports Show Optimism For the Economy in 2016 / First Refueling Flight as Part of Anti-ISIL Mission Sadness and civic pride as Helmut Schmidt laid to rest The first half of the 2015-16 Bundesliga season: A review Milwaukee Schwaben Männerchor Fall concert with Milwaukee D.A.N.K. Chor

Correspondents Anne Marie Fuhrig Francine McKenna Typography Ronald Kabitzke Kabitzke Familien GmbH

DANK Chicago North German Language School Celebrates St. Martinstag DANK Chapter Milwaukee’s Holiday Spirit

Advertising and Classifieds Russ Knoebel

DANK Lake County, IL Honors German POWs at Ft. Sheridan DANK South Bend, IN Chapter Christmas Party / DANK Benton Harbor Honors German POW's at Ft. Custer Bay City cooks up sauerkraut / Fasching Party set for Bay City's Stein Haus Germany’s Shadow

General Information

German American Journal -ISSN 10868070 is published bimonthly and is the official publication of the German American National Congress. Periodicals postage paid at Chicago, IL and additional mailing offices.

Germany and Cuba agree to open Havana trade office A look ahead – into the sky Werder Bremen to trial US international Jordan Morris Aus Oma's Küche – Struwen, Germany's Fried Yeast Pancake Recipe Tipps zum Deutsch lernen / Tips for Learning German Gebrauchsanweisung für Berlin / Instruction Manual for Berlin Calendar of Events Deutsche Hoffnungsträger / German hopefuls

POSTMASTER” Send address changes to: German-American Journal 4740 N. Western Avenue Suite 206 Chicago IL. 60625-2013 Annual Subscription Rate $15.00 www.dank.org/news.html DANK does not warrant or assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness or usefulness of any information published herein.

DANK reserves the right to change or amend submissions for any reason without prior notice.

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From The President’s Desk Mike Ianni, National President

For many of us, as we look out the window and see falling snow, we realize that Father Time has once again passed on the torch. It's a time when many people make their New Year's resolutions; whether it's to be more active, learn a new skill, or spend more time with family. (Personally, my hope is to lose some of that holiday weight after too many delicious meals!) Each year reveals a fresh start and I've learned that it's important to write down your goals and share them with others.

Besides for me being on the hook to now lose a few pounds in 2016 (uh oh!), I'm excited to share with you my three "Resolutions", aka Goals, for the next two years: 1. Listen to the Chapters; 2. Engage the Community; and 3. Increase Membership.

Listen to the Chapters: I promise to continue to learn from all of you.

Every time I meet with someone from DANK, I'm amazed by the stories they share with me about the exciting things they do, like the famous Monte Oswald's Bear Ranch or Chicago North's Adventskranz Kurs. I ask you to please keep sharing your excitement, headwinds, and ideas as well as the challenges your chapters face so that we can find ways to help you.

Engage the Community: All of your chapters make up the DANK community, but did you know that our community is also joined by the almost 50 million Americans who can claim German Ancestry? I will do my best to find ways to engage a broader audience to build awareness of DANK. After several meetings with delegates in Chicago from the German Consulate, German American Chamber of Commerce and other organizations, our momentum is already building.

Increase Membership: Our 57 year history has been built through your sweat (for example, Martin Hartig's uncanny painting skills at Chicago North), tears (seeing our friends and family pass) and celebration (Carnivale, Rosenmontag, etc.). Your chapters have created an atmosphere that can't be surpassed by any one organization. Personally, when I think about qualities of a member of DANK, four things come to mind: pride, respect, appreciation, and determination. I will strive to help you find people who share these qualities via old and new venues.

Over the next two years, a lot can happen and I am eager to see what they bring. So, if you remember anything from this letter, hopefully these three numbers stand out: four, two & 50. The four qualities I think a DANK member holds (pride, respect, appreciation & determination), two years to accomplish these goals and 50 million (almost!) Americans who can claim German ancestry.

Thank you again for the privilege to serve you and einen Guten Rutsch ins neue Jahr!

DANK seeks to bring together Americans of German descent in the pursuit of cultivating and presenting their heritage and interests on local, regional and national levels. These were the primary reasons that the German American National Congress was founded in 1959 and they are still among the organization’s primary objectives today.

DANK National Executive Board

President: Michael Ianni Vice President : Erik Wittmann Ronald Kabitzke Treasurer: Bob Miske Secretary: Beverly Pochatko Membership: Erik Wittmann DANK National Executive Office 4740 N. Western Avenue Chicago IL. 60625-2013 Phone: (773) 275-1100 Toll Free: 1-888-USA-DANK Office Hours: 9 am - 4 pm Monday, Wednesday-Friday

Executive Secretary Eva Timmerhaus Office Manager Russ Knoebel

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Der Stern Hätt` einer auch fast mehr Verstand als wie die drei Weisen aus Morgenland und ließe sich dünken, er wäre wohl nie dem Sternlein nachgereist, wie sie; dennoch, wenn nun das Weihnachtsfest seine Lichtlein wonniglich scheinen lässt, fällt auch auf sein verständig Gesicht, er mag es merken oder nicht, ein freundlicher Strahl des Wundersternes von dazumal.

Wilhelm Busch

„Karneval“ Fastnacht – Fasching – Maskenzeit jedes Kind sich darauf freut das Wunschkostüm zu tragen an diesen tollen Tagen.

Spaß haben und mal necken sich übermütig sein ganz sicherlich.

Auch die Großen haben Freud in der 5. Jahreszeit, denn zum Fröhlichsein braucht’s keinen Mut viel Lachen, das tut allen Menschen gut.

Winterlied Oh, wie ist es kalt geworden Und so traurig, öd und leer.

Raue Winde weh'n von Norden Und die Sonne scheint nicht mehr.

Auf die Berge möcht' ich fliegen Möchte sehen ein grünes Tal Möchte in Gras und Blumen liegen Und mich freu'n am Sonnenstrahl.

Möchte hören die Schalmeien Und der Herden Glockenklang.

Möchte freuen mich im Freien An der Vögel süßem Sang.

Schöner Frühling komm doch wieder Lieber Frühling komm doch bald.

Bring uns Blumen, Laub und Lieder Schmücke wieder Feld und Wald.

Hoffmann von Fallersleben (1798-1874).

Stadt und Wahrzeichen von Christel Miske

Find the German cities and their respective landmarks For answers, please see WORDSEARCH on page 29

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Munich's Fasching celebration will end February 7 When other countries of the vate parties and the impromptu world celebrate “carnival“, in office celebrations. The list is Munich “Fasching“ is celebrated. endless.

“Fasching“ comes from the meThe wildest days of Fasching dieval word “vaschnc“, in presare the last ones, culminating in ent-day German “Fastnacht“ a climax on Faschingssonntag and relates to the fasting period, (the Sunday preceding Shrove which begins immediately after Tuesday) as well as on FaschFasching and is what we know ingsdienstag itself, of course. On as Lent. Munich’s Fasching has these days Fasching doughnuts its origins in the dancing and are sold by the dozen and Mupageantry which accompanied nich invites all and sundry to economical changes, as well as join in the masquerading, singFaschingsmaske am Viktualienmarkt in München changes in the customs and fesing, dancing and general carnitivities themselves, the tradition val revelry in the city centre. It Princess are crowned, in preparation for is on Faschingsdienstag, too, that the of Fasching remains to date.

Up until the beginning of the 19th their reign over the “crazy season“, which traditional dance of the market women century all Fasching celebrations took begins on the 7th January and continues takes place on the Viktualienmarkt. place in the open air. It wasn’t until 1829 through Shrove Tuesday or “Faschings- When on Shrove Tuesday at exactly that the first “Fasching Ball“ took place, dienstag“. During this “crazy season“ ev- midnight, with great pomp and due soan artist’s festival, soon to be followed ery society, corporation or guild throws lemnity (!) Fasching is officially buried by other artist’s festivals and numer- its own Fasching ball. until the following year, the fasting or The first events are the so-called Lent period begins. ous masquerades and society and court balls. In 1839 the Munich carnival So- “black and white“ balls, elegant affairs, Munich`s restaurants offer Ash ciety was born, which marks the begin- where fancy dress gives way to silk din- Wednesday fish specialities and on the ning of Fasching as we know it today. In ner jackets and extravagant evening Marienplatz purses are washed out in 1908 it was succeeded by the founding gowns. As Fasching progresses so the the Fish Fountain, a tradition said to enof the “Narrhalla“ (Council of Fools), number of balls increases. The spectrum sure for that they will not be emptied for which is still now responsible for the or- is many-sided – the Washer-women’s at least another year. ganization of many of Munich’s Fasch- Ball, the “Carnival in Rio“, the “SchaberThe “Münchners“ are now allowed a nackt“, the Fashion School’s Ball or that short breathing space before they launch ing balls.

At 11.11. am on the 11th day of the of the local sports club. Then there are themselves into the “Strong Beer Sea11th month the Fasching Prince and the children’s Fasching parties, the pri- son“. © Muenchen.de - Das offizielle Stadtportal

Find out about Easter traditions in Germany!

By Verena Thöle Voyage Reporter

Palm Sunday (Palmsonntag)

Easter week (Osterwoche) starts on Palm Sunday. The activities on Palm Sunday in Germany closely resemble those in the UK. In many areas children make decorated Palmenzweige (palm branches) at home or in school and bring them to a special church service to have them consecrated. They sing Jesus zieht in Jerusalem ein to celebrate the triumphal entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem.

Maundy Thursday (Gründonnerstag)

Maundy Thursday recalls the Last Supper, Jesus' arrest and imprisonment.

This day has a long tradition in Germany but it is becoming increasingly overlooked because it is not a public holiday.

In German, the word Gründonnerstag derives from the old word greinen meaning 'to grieve'. Although the word did not derive from the German word for the colour green, a tradition of eating primarily green dishes developed. These are dishes in which the main ingredient is either spinach, kale, or some other

green vegetable. In some areas green soups are made. Maundy Thursday is also the day when church bells ring for the last time before Easter Sunday.

Good Friday (Karfreitag)

Karfreitag commemorates the death of Jesus. It is also called Stiller Freitag (silent Friday) because traditionally the day was spent in a quiet way out of respect for the occasion. For Protestants, Good Friday is the most important day of the Church year, because they believe Please see Traditions on page 7

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Hop to it! Easter egg markets spring up all over Germany

By Michael Abrams Stars and Stripes It takes talent and a steady hand to decorate an Easter egg like this.

An egg is an egg, you say, and that is true. But they do come in all sizes. There are pigeon eggs, chicken eggs, duck eggs, goose eggs and even ostrich eggs.

The amazing thing is what you can do with an egg. Boil, fry, scramble and poach are probably the first things that comes to mind.

But if you visit one of the Easter egg markets that spring up all over Germany this time of year, you’ll be astounded at what else people can do with an egg.

You can find eggs that are painted, dyed, quilted and stitched. Some are etched or beaded. Most are hollow. Others are not made of shell but rather of stone, wood, ceramic or porcelain.

Some are cheap, perhaps five Euros; others cost as much as 1,000 Euros.

Quite a bit for an egg, you say. Well, a lot of effort goes into egg decorating.

One egg might have thousands of

tiny beads glued on it in intricate designs. Or an artist might stitch designs on a hollowed-out egg, pulling the string through holes meticulously bored with a tiny drill.

Another will use a brush that is basically just a piece of wire to draw a picture with wax on the egg. When dyed, the color won’t penetrate the wax. When the dye is dry, the wax is peeled off, leaving the picture a different color than the rest of the egg. With care, this can be repeated layer after layer, resulting in a beautiful, multi-colored egg. It will cost you a couple of hundred euros, though.

You might find eggs with Eastern Orthodox icons painted on them or perhaps with the Lord’s Prayer written on it.

Some eggs are not as labor intensive.

Some just have Easter bunnies painted on them. Others are beautifully polished eggs of varying sizes made of stone or wood and painted much like real eggs but not as delicately.

What do you do with the eggs? As with many crafts, there are serious col-

lectors out there. But Easter egg markets are great places just to pick up Easter decorations for your home or a present for family and friends.

The eggs also make unique souvenirs of your stay in Europe. Just make sure they are well packed.

Happy shopping and happy Easter!

Traditions from Page 6 that resurrection for mankind was only made possible by and through Jesus' death.

Catholic doctrine views things differently and therefore less meaning is attached to this particular day. In predominantly Catholic areas Good Friday processions (Karfreitagsprozessionen) are often held. Some parishes also invite their members to participate in a Kreuzwegandacht, that is to walk in prayer along a way where the stations of the Cross are marked by wooden crosses.

It is also a tradition that you should not eat meat on Good Friday, so lots of people eat fish for dinner instead.

Perhaps this is why so many people really look forward to their Easter roast on Sunday?

Easter Sunday (Ostersonntag)

Easter Sunday is considered the most

important Christian feast day. It is a day of celebration and Lent is over, so it's really a time to indulge! If Easter is not a time for church and religion, then it's a time for food and family.

Breakfast usually consists of a special Osterzopf (braided Easter bread) and lunch (or brunch) is usually Easter lamb. Then, most importantly, there is das Kaffeetrinken. For afternoon coffee, the whole extended family feasts on specialities like Osternester (Easter buns) and Kranzkuchen (cake with an apricot filling).

Charmingly, every family and region has their own Easter specialities, so you will never run out of new treats to discover! At Easter time children often decorate eggs and on Easter Sunday they take part in an Eiersuche (egg hunt) in the garden to find chocolate Easter bunnies and small gifts.

In the evening, Easter bonfires are lit all over the country. In some regions, the

fires are held on Holy Saturday night.

Sometimes trees from the previous Christmas celebration will be the foundation of the fires.

Easter Monday (Ostermontag)

As in the UK, there are also church services on Easter Monday and activities like Easter egg hunts take place. The day is usually spent visiting family. People who do not have anything to do with church activities generally enjoy their free day or take the chance to go on a short holiday in the country or on the coasts of the North or Baltic Sea.

Did you know...

... that some regions of Germany preserve the tradition of fetching holy water called Osterwasser? It is said to have healing powers. www.german-easter-holiday.com

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Bavaria, Germany, A Winter Wonderland by

Francine McKenna, Staff Columnist On a clear day it is possible to see the Alps from Munich, Bavaria's capital and Germany's third largest city. One that, although filled with theaters, museums, art galleries, high end shopping areas and a dynamic nightlife, has the rustic feel of a village.

Nothing could be more appropriate for what is often called the country's "Se-

1984 the conservation of nature, and protection of the environment, have been priorities in Bavaria and part of their constitution. Although the German Alpine Association ensure the Alps are accessible, the preservation of the alpine environment takes precedence.

Summer, spring and autumn the traditional towns and villages attract

cret Capital", but is the capital of one of the oldest states in Europe.

Bavaria. History and historic buildings, surrounded by Germany's magnificent alpine scenery, fairytale castles, ancient monasteries, and a natural paradise of unspoilt forests, rivers and 1,600 lakes.

With four distinct seasons each with their charms, and almost always deep "Bavarian Blue" skies, Bavaria is beautiful at any time of the year, making it one of the main destinations for holidays in Germany. While during the winter from end November through to February, and often into April on higher slopes, it becomes a wonderland with hills and mountains covered in snow.

A scene of natural beauty, as since

holidaymakers and day-trippers from Germany as well as the rest of the world.

To enjoy everything from water sports, mountain climbing, walking, horse drawn carriage holidays, festivals, sightseeing; or just relaxation, life, nature and the crystal clear air.

With the arrival of winter the area is taken over by snowboarders, alpine and cross country skiers, ice-climbers, snowshoe hikers, ice skaters, as well as sledge tours, tobogganing and curling. And of course "apres ski", which is more "gemuetlich", cozy in feeling and fact, than loud and boisterous.

For anyone wanting to stay somewhere a bit different from a conventional hotel there are popular, and genuine, hay lofts and igloos.

Nevertheless winter in Bavaria is not all about winter sports, as snow highlights, and makes a stunning backdrop to, attractions such as the "Bavarian Forest National Park" with its wildlife; marked winter walking paths; cross country ski trails and the fairytale castle of Bavaria's King Ludwig II. NEUSCHWANSTEIN, inspiration for the Sleeping Beauty and Cinderella castles at Disney theme parks, and like many of Bavaria's favorite spots, even including some outdoor heated swimming pools, the castle remains open the whole year; snow or no snow.

A blanket of white adds an extra dimension to the tourist routes, such as the "Alpine Route" from Lindau on Lake Constance to Berchtesgaden on Koenigsee, which takes in 25 Castles, Abbeys and Palaces as well as Mountains and Ski Resorts. Although heavy falls do occasionally close some of the roads.

There is also the famous Romantic Road between Wuerzburg and Fuessen.

Passing through medieval walled towns, mile after mile of beautiful scenery and World Heritage Sites.

Winter or summer Bavaria is famous for its beer, and the ever popular "Beer Route" visits some of the 650 breweries in Bavaria's most picturesque villages and towns; one of which is BAMBERG. Like Rome Bamberg was built on

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February/March 2016 seven hills, and with its 1000 year history; area of canals that lives up to its description of "Little Venice" and one of Europe's largest intact old town centers, Bamberg is a gem amongst German towns even without a layer of snow.

Thousands of monasteries, abbeys

TING, between Munich, Passau and Lake Chiemsee. For over 1,250 years it has been Bavaria's spiritual center, and every year the "Black Madonna", a statue of the Virgin Mary from 1330 receives over a million visitors.

There is the perfectly preserved me-

and churches have made Bavaria a center of winter pilgrimages, to sometimes complex ornate structures situated in remote areas and built by local craftsmen.

WIESKIRCHE on the Romantic Road, with its Rococo style church, "Pilgrimage Church of the Scourged Saviour" is one favorite, as is ALTOET-

dieval city of REGENSBURG, with its Rococo "Church of our Dear Lady", Zu unserer lieben Frau, and medieval St. Peter's Cathedral; while of course "Oberammergau" is one of Germany's best known places of pilgrimage.

Bavaria's many cities, large or small, each have their own individual charm, traditions and history, in addition to

Im Märzen der Bauer Im Märzen der Bauer die Rößlein einspannt; Er setzt seine Felder und Wiesen instand Er pflüget den Boden, er egget und sät und rührt seine Hände frühmorgens und spät.

Die Bäurin, die Mägde, sie dürfen nicht ruhn, sie haben im Haus und im Garten zu tun; sie graben und rechen und singen ein Lied und freun sich, wenn alles schön grünet und blüht.

So geht unter Arbeit das Frühjahr vorbei, dann erntet der Bauer das duftende Heu; er mäht das Getreide, dann drischt er es aus: im Winter da gibt es manch fröhlichen Schmaus.

Walter Hensel

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"NUREMBERG" has a medieval center, castle, and 30 different museums, "COBURG", stunning architecture, a wealth of art, culture and links which range from Queen Victoria to Martin Luther, while "AUGSBURG" has a 2,000 year history but is modern and dynamic. Its "old town" criss-crossed by canals and with the world's oldest existing social housing complex, "The Fuggerei". A historic walled commune that has been part of the city since 1516, and is still in use.

In the winter as in all the seasons Bavaria is a wonderful mixture of the traditional and high tech, breathtaking landscapes and up-to-the-minute cities, health resorts and sport. Together with the hard to resist temptations of traditional German food and regional specialties, from local fish, game, vegetables and cheeses to Schmarrn mit karmellisierten Aepfeln, Bavaria's "I just don't want to think how many calories it has" dessert or anytime snack, and all combined with the typical Bavarian "joie de vivre, "A Love of Life".

And it takes on an extra dimension when covered by those layers of winter snow.

2015 Final Raffle Drawing The winning ticket stubs for the final drawing in the 2015 DANK raffle were drawn recently at the Main Office in Chicago.

Winning first prize of $1500 was Gerhard Ellerkamp of Madison, Wisconsin.

The second place winner was Christiane Morgan of Aston, Pennsylvania with the prize of $750 Coming in at third place was Steven Pasco of Mokena, Illinois. His prize is valued at $375.

Finally, winning $175, the fourth place winner was Herta Duban of Springfield, Illinois The National Executive Board would like to take a moment to thank all those who participated in the raffle. The funds collected will be used to further the aims of the organization.

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History Class at DANK/Chicago explains German Hit song "Ach du lieber Augustin"!

I must write the German-American Journal a second time to sing the praises of a history class I took at DANK/Chicago.

When I studied early German history as a member of the first history class at DANK in the fall of 2014, I was particularly captivated by the story of Thusnelda and Hermann and wrote about it in the GermanAmerican Journal. This fall, I enrolled in the Medieval history class. On Thursday nights.we met in a darkened room on the fourth floor and once again Mike Haas, M.A. in history and a retired Chicago police officer, wove his magic as moderator..

Mr. Haas bases his method of instruction on that at the police academy, relying heavily on slides and videotape, giving the student a virtually no-stress experience.

The names in the middle ages were wonderful -- like Louis the Pious, Charles the Fat, or the first king of the Germans, Heinrich the Fowler; on the female side, Constance or Rosewitha. Marvelous artwork illustrated the slides as we studied themes like social structure in the middle ages, the role of women, the position of Jews, the founding of universities and monasteries, the burning of heretics, Joan of Arc, and later witches, and finally, the Black Plague ("die Pest") which started in 1347. In that year, a merchant ship from the east arrived in Messina, Sicily, and on board were infected rats carrying fleas. The disease took two forms, bubonic and pneumonic, by 1377 killing about a third of the population of Europe and Great Britain and returning in waves into the late 1600s. Society changed afterward, and so this terrible event may be thought of as marking the

end of an era. It did, however, bring us the wonderful song we Germans know well: "Ach du lieber Augustin"!

A drunken troubadour named Augustin, found unconscious in the streets

Augustin Grube of 1679 Vienna by the crews collecting bodies every day during the plague, was tossed into a cart and then into a mass grave.He awoke later and his cries were heard. Perhaps we never really paid attention to the lyrics of the second stanza:

"Rock ist weg, Stock ist weg, Augustin liegt im Dreck.

Ach, du lieber Augustin, Alles ist hin!"

Or worse, the fourth: "Jeder Tag war ein Fest, Jetzt haben wir die Pest!

Nur ein großes Leichenfest, Das ist der Rest."

Maybe my mother sang me a version that left out these verses? It does make you want to take a drink, though!

At any rate, the second history class I've taken at DANK/Chicago with Mike Haas has been another enjoyable, eyeopening experience.

I recommend both his classes to anyone who can make his or her way over to the DANKhaus once a week in the evening and wants to delve into German culture via a lively and pressure-free look at the past.

Brigitte Schwarz King, JD, is a German teacher in the DANK adult evening school.

Hermann Monument Attendance up in 2015

By George L. Glotzbach Total attendance at New Ulm’s Hermann Monument in 2015 was 11,295, announced the Park and Recreation Department.

This was about average with recent years. The Monument was open 117 days, with an average attendance of 93 paid admissions and guests per day.

Total revenue was $26,617, a record high.

Average annual attendance 2001 to 2006, repair years excluded, was 8,840. Average annual attendance 2007

through 2015, following formation of the Hermann Monument Society, was 11,797…an increase of 33%.

Special events such as the 4th of July, Full Moon nights, HermannFest, and Hermann’s 5 K Run/Walk boosted attendance. July was the biggest month with 2,691. The biggest single day was October 10 during Oktoberfest, when 378 toured New Ulm’s iconic Hermann Monument.

The Monument closed for the season in November and will re-open in May of 2016.

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Monthly Reports Show Optimism For the Economy in 2016

First Refueling Flight as Part of Anti-ISIL Mission German air force pilots flew their first mission as part of the international coalition against ISIL terrorists. A Luftwaffe tanker plane operating out of the Turkish airbase Incirlik on December 16 supplied coalition fighter jets with fuel.

(© picture-alliance/ dpa)

The ZEW Indicator of Economic Sentiment increased in December for the second straight month. The indicator reached 16.1 points this month, a four-month high that is well above predicted values. The ZEW index gives a good indication of economic expectations, which in turn reflects the overall mood of investors and business owners in Germany. ZEW points to a relative slowdown in exports and the influx of refugees as reasons for the slower than expected final quarter of 2015. “Overall, however, confidence is growing that the German economy is sufficiently robust to meet these challenges in the coming year," said ZEW President Clemens Fuest. Though the current index is still below the long-term average of 24.7 points, the December jump gives reason for optimism.

The second major economic indicator in Germany, the Ifo Business Climate Index, dipped slightly in December, but it remains high. The Ifo index has remained stable, and high, all year which is a change from the somewhat unstable 2014 values. Ifo averages opinions about the current business environment with expectations for the future to release the monthly index. In December, views about the current environment dropped slightly, but expectations for the coming year remain high.

The most recent Bundesbank forecasts show a 1.7 percent growth in 2015 and predict 1.8 percent growth in 2016. © Germany.info

(© Bundeswehr/Oliver Lang)

The Airbus A310 has been converted into a tanker plane for the anti-IS mission.

The Airbus A310 MRTT, a multipurpose aircraft that can also be used for passenger and freight transport as well as MedEvac transport, has been converted into a tanker plane for the anti-IS mission. Also already part of the mission and now based in Turkey are 40 German soldiers and two Tornado reconnaissance jets. The plan is to station up to 250 German soldiers in Incirlik to support the aerial refueling and reconnaissance flights, which are to begin in January.

At sea, the German frigate Augsburg is helping to protect the French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle, from which French jets are carrying out air strikes against ISIL. According to the mandate approved by the Bundestag on December 4, up to 1,200 Bundeswehr soldiers will support the international coalition against the terrorist militia. © Germany.info

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DANK Chapter Listing ARIZONA Phoenix ILLINOIS Chicago Chicago South Chicago West Fox Valley Lake County Northern Suburbs Peoria Springfield INDIANA Indianapolis LaFayette South Bend MICHIGAN Benton Harbor Great Lakes Bay Region OHIO Cleveland PENNSYLVANIA Erie Philadelphia Pittsburgh WASHINGTON DC Washington DC WISCONSIN Milwaukee www.dank.org

(© 2015 Bundeswehr / Dennis Kramer)

The frigate Augsburg

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Sadness and civic pride as Helmut Schmidt laid to rest

Helmut Schmidt has been buried in his hometown, where pride vied with sadness as thousands lined the streets to honor the former chancellor on his final journey through the city. Ben Knight reports from Hamburg.

No full-length church service, not too many speeches - those were among the stipulations that nonreligious former Chancellor Helmut Schmidt , who died on November 10 aged 96, set for his own state funeral . But the most important of these was that it should take place in his hometown rather than the nation's capital. Hamburg was the city he grew up in, the one he represented in the German parliament, the one he retired to, and the one he has now been buried in, alongside his parents and wife, Loki.

The sadness at his death was mixed with civic pride among the onlookers on the narrow cobbled streets around St. Michael's church, where Schmidt's state funeral was held - while another child of the city, Angela Merkel, gave one of the speeches inside.

"I can't sum up in words what he meant to this city," one woman told DW. "It was symbolized in so many gestures - that he'll be buried here, that he made sure he would live here later in life. I can't explain it, but it's a very deep feeling - in my belly, something to do with pride, the soul of Hamburg. It's really touched my heart that he's not here anymore."

The woman was one in a dense crowd of mourners who ringed the church beyond the police barriers, and who stayed put throughout the 90-minute service even though they could not see or hear any of what was happening inside. There was a hush among them as if they were inside the church, while the scene was lit up by bright clear wintry sunlight and a blue sky that emerged after the sleet of the weekend and somehow amplified the sentimentality of the day.

Protector from the floods

One episode in Schmidt's Hamburg story was brought up again and again by those in the crowd, even those who were not alive to witness it, for the legend had apparently entered the local folklore: the

time in 1962 when Hamburg was caught in a storm flood and Schmidt , as the city's interior minister, used his connections in the Bundeswehr and NATO to mobilize military helicopters to bring emergency relief despite lacking the legal authority to do so.

"He went up there and he said, 'If

Helmut Schmidt 1918 - 2015 those helicopters aren't here in two hours, I'm going to kick asses,'" was how the garrulous shopkeeper in a small gift store opposite the church told the story. "How many people do you think would've have died if he hadn't done that? That's the kind of man he was - he got things done. He's the only politician who had any spine if you ask me."

"He was our best man, our best interior minister, the best chancellor we ever had," added Klaus Schulze, a member of a local sea chanty choir and one of several men who had come wearing the Hamburg marine cap that Schmidt made so popular in his heyday. "He had real courage and integrity."

Security relaxed despite Brussels

Of course, the honor of the state funeral had the potential to be a nightmare for Hamburg, given the Paris terrorist

attacks of November 13, last week's cancellation of a friendly football match in Hanover , and the ongoing security situation and manhunt in Brussels .

The city has only hosted one other state funeral (in 1995, for former Finance Minister Karl Schiller, another native), and about 1,800 guests were expected to attend Monday's service, with speakers including Chancellor Angela Merkel, Mayor Olaf Scholz and Schmidt's old friend and colleague the German-born former US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger. Other notable attendees included NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg, German President Joachim Gauck and former presidents of Italy and France.

Given this congregation of elder statesmen and the panic elsewhere in Europe, Hamburg police spokesman Timo Zill cut a notably unruffled figure ahead of the funeral. "We will carry out the operation according to the normal concept and normal strength foreseen for a state occasion," he told the "Hamburger Abendblatt" newspaper in an article published Monday.

Indeed, though there was a significant police presence around the church and along the 12-kilometer (7-mile) route Schmidt's hearse took to the cemetery, there were no bag searches, no officers armed with assault rifles (at least not visibly), and no barriers lining the motorcade route. "Of course I had my concerns - there are enough crazy people around," said Wilfried Schmidt, an onlooker. "But something could just as easily happen to me at work. I'm glad I'm here. The whole atmosphere is very peaceful, solemn, calm."

Then the man who shared a last name with the old chancellor paused and added: "You know, he was a very modest man. 'Don't make too much of a fuss about it,' he would've said." Š Deutsche Welle (DW)

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The first half of the 2015-16 Bundesliga season: A review New head coaches, remarkable comebacks and a magical nine minutes. At the end of the first half of the 2015-16 Bundesliga season, it's time to look back and take stock of what has happened in Germany's top flight.

Perhaps the best place to start talking about the last six months is with nine minutes. Robert Lewandowski's five goals in that time was unprecedented, a world record feat that added a slice of unpredictability in Bundesliga history.

Bayern's 5-1 demolition of Wolfsburg - one of three five-goal performances for Bayern in the Bundesliga - was the highlight in another entertaining Hinrunde (first half of the season).

An eight-point gap for the defending champions was perhaps part of the preseason prediction, but the pre-Christmas confirmation of Pep Guardiola's departure in 2016 was not. The timing was poor and sparked a flurry of unsettling reports, but perhaps the news isn't that inevitable. The Spaniard's growing unrest about the club's medical situation combined with the lure of the Premier League were always going to get Guardiola thinking. Bayern fans will just wish it hadn't come so soon.

So good have the defending champions been in the first half of the season, the blemishes stand out more than the victories. An unexpected, goalless draw in Frankfurt and a taste of their own brutal medicine in Gladbach were the only times Bayern dropped points in the first 17 games of the season. Pep Guardiola's sides were attack heavy, regularly playing with one or two defenders and sweeping opposition aside in uncompromising fashion. A fortunate penalty decision on matchday four combined with Lewandowski's heroics against Wolfsburg two games later kept Bayern at their best. So much so, that by the time of "Der Klassiker" against Borussia Dortmund, the only classic thing about it was just how good Bayern were. In their final game in 2015, Bayern won again but looked, understandably, distracted. Next year, if they want to send Guardiola on his way having won it all, there will be no room for that.

At times, Dortmund have been just as good as Bayern this season. Sadly

though, BVB's ability to draw at home against Darmstadt (matchday seven) and lose to Hamburg and then Cologne right before Christmas is one of the main reasons Dortmund could not keep the title race narrative alive long enough for it to become a reality.

Nevertheless, it has been quite the start for Thomas Tuchel. A 38-point haul at Christmas should not go unnoticed in the shadow of all things Bayern.

A memorable opening day thrashing of Gladbach combined with a derby win against Schalke and a last-minute victory against Wolfsburg have shown Dortmund's quality this year. Julian Weigl has blossomed and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's rise is exciting for both the club and the league. If the gap at the top stays big, at least Aubameyang's battle against Lewandowski - the man he has now replaced at Dortmund - will provide entertainment.

Away from the top two, the rest of the league provides its fair share of intrigue, and nowhere more so than in the capital. Perched in third ahead of a host of Champions League representatives, Hertha Berlin have exceeded expectations almost every week. It wasn't until Pal Dardai's side beat Leverkusen on matchday 15 that they got the recognition they deserved.

Perhaps only Andre Schubert's astonishing saving of Gladbach can match Hertha's achievements. Lucien Favre's decision to walk after defeat in the derby left Gladbach on a five-game losing streak. The little-known Schubert took over and flipped the script, winning six in a row.

Wolfsburg managed six unanswered goals against Werder Bremen on matchday 13, and while the club have dealt well post Kevin de Bruyne, they have shone brighter in Europe than they have in the Bundesliga. Leverkusen have flattered to deceive this year, and have nearly lost as many games as they did in the whole of last season. But they do have Chicharito.

The former Manchester United striker's 19 goals in 22 games in all competitions have been Roger Schmidt's saving grace - matchday 16 and the destruction of Gladbach perhaps the peak in performance.

The other Schmidt - the one called Martin, in charge of Mainz - has good form and a striker who regularly scores.

Yoshinori Muto's hat-trick for Mainz on matchday 11 was only the second time a Japanese player has managed the feat in the Bundesliga - the ghost of Shinji Okazaki didn't even get time to arrive. Andre Breitenreiter certainly did as the new Schalke head coach, and at Christmas time the club are probably where they should be. Leroy Sane leads a pack of promising youngsters and they are still in the hunt for that Champions League spot that they are after.

Anthony Ujah's 10 goals aside, Werder Bremen would want to start the season all over again. Hoffenheim have had a winter to forget, and Huub Stevens doesn't look like changing that. Frankfurt's entertaining eight goal thriller against Cologne on matchday four was a rare highlight for Eagles fans, while Hannover continued their relationship with the lower half of the table. Augsburg started the same way, but a late resurgence inspired by European history has them on the right path, and Raul Bobadilla looking like a new striker. Cologne are happy in mid-table, especially after a festive home win against Dortmund.

Both Ingolstadt and Darmstadt have exceeded expectations in the first half of the season, but there's an all-too familiar feeling about how 2016 will end for the Bundesliga newcomers. Without a consistent source of goals and too little quality, their time at the top looks set to be brief. However short and whatever the outcome, the next 17 matchdays promise much and the Bundesliga tends to deliver when that is the case. Š Deutsche Welle (DW)

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Milwaukee Schwaben Männerchor Fall concert with Milwaukee D.A.N.K. Chor and Marquette University High School Chor Singers

By Bridget Roth 2nd Vice President, DANK Chapter Milwaukee The Schwaben Männerchor celebrated its 117th annual concert on October 31st, precisely on Halloween! The weather prior to this day was sunny and warm; the trees around us displayed a colorful hue of fall colors. But on the day of the concert the weather changed drastically to cold and continuous rain. However, towards late afternoon the rain subsided as the singers gathered for practice before the concert.

The Schwaben Männerchor is rich in history going back to 1898, when under the direction of T. B. Traub interested singers gathered to form a choir under directorship of Mr. Eisfeldt. The choir flourished and celebrated many important anniversaries throughout the years.

At the Golden Anniversary in 1948 the official name of the Männerchor des Schwaben Unterstützungsverein was changed to "Schwaben Männerchor."

To celebrate this noteworthy concert, the Schwaben Männerchor invited the D.A.N.K. Chor (Deutsch-Amerikanischer National Kongress) and the Marquette University High School chorus to be their guests.

Schwabenhof Hall, filled with enthusiastic listeners, gave way to the "Männerchor" opening song "Deutsches Sängermarschlied" followed by a repertoire of folk songs and patriotic songs under the present choir director Dr. James Norden: "Ein Mädchen und ein Gläschen Wein", "Am Brunnen vor dem Tore", "Haidenröslein", "Kennt ihr das Land?", "Das Lieben bringt groß' Freud", "Wir wandern heut ins Schwabenland".

A very pleasant and enthusiastic performance by the Marquette University High School Chorus sang a medley of traditional and spiritual songs under the direction of Susan Sajdak : "Fill-a Me Up! ", "Deo Dicamus Gratias", "I Would Be True", " Great Day Traditional Spiritual," "Give Us A Song".

Mrs. Sajdak having bin a student of Dr. James Norden, is currently the Fine Arts Department Chair at Marquette University High School and member of the Theology Department.

Her choir consisted of singers from the freshman, sophomore, junior and senior classes.

Perhaps, upon graduation, they will join the Schwaben Männerchor in the future!

The DANK Chor greeted the Schwaben Männerchor with three songs: "Wahre Freundschaft soll nicht wanken",

Schwaben Männerchor – DANK Chor, October 31, 2015 "Was frag ich viel nach Geld und Gut"; and ended with "Nun ade, du mein lieb Heimatland," under the direction of Dr. James Norden.

After the three choirs had sung separately it was time for the Schwaben Männerchor to sing with the DANK Chor: The songs of choice were "Sierra Madre del Sur", a very sentimental song blending the voices of both choirs in unison, followed by a folk song "Wo die Liebe wohnt". Both songs were very much loved by the audience. Dr. James Norden has been the director of D.A.N.K. since 2000, and the Schwabenmännerchor since 2001; active as a pianist, a chamber musician, teacher and accompanist in the Milwaukee area, presently on staff at Cardinal Stritch College.

The culmination of the concert occured as the Marquette U.H.S Choir sang together with the Schwaben Männerchor two songs in German. The high school choir sang very well in German and their diction was well pronounced. After the official singing the D.A.N.K. choir president Jill Shearer presented a hostess gift to the president Mr. Werner Scherr wishing the choir good luck in the future and never loosing the spirit of singing the German songs.

The last part of the concert was a sing-along with the audience, the audience and choir members singing the German beloved old favorites: "Edelweis", "Du,du liegst mir im Herzen", "Lustig ist das Zigeunerleben" , "Die Perle Tirols, "Rosamunde" and many more.

A pleasant atmosphere was provided by the "Ed Hause Band" playing for the dancing and listening pleasure late in the afternoon and evening. Ed Hause of New Berlin, Wi has been entertaining crowds in the Milwaukee area and abroad since the early 1980's. Ed is known to tailor the sound of his band to suit the event for which he is playing. Indeed, this was the case this afternoon.

The rain did not stop some Halloween-clad listeners to appear in costumes that enlightened the audience.

Food, delicious cakes and beverages were available for sale.

It was also an afternoon to reminisce the essence of this concert and the ability of young and old to sing together. It is the universal sound of music that binds us and enlightens us as we remember the historical moment many years ago when dedicated singers found it necesary to come together and form the Schwaben Männerchor.

The D.A.N.K. Chor is sincerely honored and thankful to be chosen as guest performers, along with the Marquette University High School choir at this year's Schwaben Männerchor's annual concert. May the friendship, loyalty and the love of song guide us in an atmosphere of German "Gemütlichkeit" into the future of historical quality.

Vivat, crescat, floriat, Schwaben Männerchor, in eternum.

This article is being run as submitted

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DANK Chicago North German Language School Celebrates St. Martinstag

St. Martin Lantern Parade

By Melanie Potuznik DANK teacher On Saturday, November 7th, you may have heard the voices of DANK Schule students, singing “Laterne, Laterne, Sonne, Mond und Sterne…,” or perhaps you caught a peek at the beautiful lanterns they were carrying with them in procession to commemorate the Feast of Saint Martin.

A part of what the children learn at DANK School, along with the German language, are the important cultural aspects of Germany, as well as those of Austria and German-speaking Switzerland. Saturday, November 7th was one

Refreshments after the celebration

such occasion for learning. November 11th is “Martinstag” in German Europe.

It is the day when one of the most revered European saints, “Sankt Martin” is celebrated. At the time when St. Martin, Bishop of Tours (c. 317-397), was a soldier in the Roman army, a most famous story tells of how, stopping on his horse, he met a man who was shivering cold, who needed clothes. Martin ripped his cloak in two, giving half to the beggar, so that he would not freeze to death. Today, children all over Europe can be found processing through the streets, singing songs and carrying with them their brightly-lit lanterns, in

honor of the saint.

The procession at DANK Schule, led by the junior high students, included singing and lanterns, following down the hallway, and including students from age 4 through 8, some of their parents, and DANK teachers.

Those who processed paused to hear the story read in dramatic form with costumes and props, and a donation of clothes and blankets concluded the day.

The next time the nearby grocery store, church or school is taking collections of warm coats, may you give of yourselves in honor of the altruistic, modest Sankt Martin himself.

Frohe Ostern DANK National Executive Board

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Chapter Chatter DANK Chapter Milwaukee’s Holiday Spirit

By Jane Nacker DANK Chapter Milwaukee On a serious note before the holiday spirit began, members of DANK Chapter Milwaukee traveled on Nov. 15 to Fort Sheridan, IL for Volkstrauertag, the German Day of National Mourning.

The day honors those who have died as a result of war. Deputy Consul General of the Federal Republic of Germany in Chicago, Mario Soos, spoke at the ceremony. In attendance from DANK Milwaukee were President William Bessa, 2nd Vice-President Brigita Roth, Membership Secretary Ursula Günther, and Board Members Edwin Günther and Gerhard Roth. The ceremony was hosted

by DANK Chapter Lake County. Other DANK representatives were present, including DANK National President, Michael Ianni. The ceremony reminded those present of the need for peace in the world.

The holiday spirit was aroused when the Milwaukee DANK Chor joined other Milwaukee area German choirs for the United German Choruses of Milwaukee Christmas Concert. The concert was held at Nathan Hale High School auditorium on Nov. 29. The DANK Chor performed their songs with the Schwaben Männerchor and then joined with the mass choir for a resounding concluding performance.

The holiday atmosphere continued as DANK Chapter Milwaukee held its Christmas party on December 13 at Sacred Heart parish in Milwaukee. Approximately 100 people attended—it was heartwarming to see the many DANK members, and also volunteers who worked in DANK booths at German Fest who had been invited. As people arrived, President William Bessa invited them to enjoy hors d'oeuvres and beverages, some donated by Board members. The highlight of the beverages was homemade Glühwein. The Milwaukee DANK Chor, directed by Dr. James Norden, opened the festivities

Donations to German Education Programs: L to R: Treasurer Victoria Ohde, 2nd Vice President Brigita Roth, Waldorf Tamarack School German teacher Mechthilde Moser, 1st Vice President Don Wohlfeil, President William Bessa, Cedarburg School German teacher Teresa Karrels. with songs of the season. Songs were sung in German and English. The audience joined in with sing-along sheets, and wonderful voices were heard in the crowd. As Jingle Bells was being sung, Santa entered. This year, to the surprise of many, he came wearing lederhosen over his red suit! Even though he looked a little different, children came to visit him and received a treat.

It was appropriate that the spirit of giving continued, as DANK Chapter Milwaukee had invited special guests to the Christmas party: two teachers of German from local schools were in attendance. DANK Chapter Milwaukee awarded the teachers a monetary donation to assist them in teaching German language to future generations. The audience listened attentively as the teachers spoke in German and English, sharing descriptions of the challenges and successes of their programs.

As the afternoon drew to a close, the DANK Board was introduced, and they

altogether wished everyone a “Frohe Weihnachten!” The Board then served cookies and stollen. Gifts, donated by members, were raffled off. New members completed their application forms.

THANK YOU to everyone who attended, because YOU made the holiday spirit happen!

Back to business--Looking forward to 2016, DANK Chapter Milwaukee is busy making plans to participate in Germany Under Glass at the Milwaukee Domes (Mitchell Park Conservatory) on Saturday, March 5, 2016. The event is a “mini-German Fest” in the middle of winter, in the comfort of an indoor horticultural conservatory. Many of Southeast Wisconsin’s German clubs participate to showcase their music, dance and culture. German food and beverages are also part of the event.

DANK Chapter Milwaukee is on Facebook! See photos, videos, and chapter news. “Like” us at www.facebook. com/dankmilwaukee.

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Chapter Chatter DANK Lake County, IL Honors German POWs at Ft. Sheridan Ursula Hoeft DANK Chapter Lake County, IL The end of the year is always a busy time for our Chapter and 2015 was no exception. On November 15 we again held a Volkstrauertag observance at the Fort Sheridan, IL cemetery where nine German POWs are buried. The day was amazingly pleasant: dry, sunny, warm – almost shirtsleeve weather! We were honored to have Mario Soos, Deputy Consul General, Consulate General of the Federal Republic of German in Chicago, and Mrs. Soos with us.

The terrible terrorist attack that had occurred in Paris just two days earlier was on everyone's mind. In his address, Mr. Soos stated "we meet today deeply shocked by yet another barbaric act of terrorism against innocent people. Our thoughts and feelings are with the families and friends of the victims." He asked that we join him in a moment of silence for the victims of the attack.

DANK National President Michael Ianni spoke about the importance of Volkstrauertag and reminded us that "this national day of mourning is vital to our future, as it ensures that those who have gone before us are never forgotten."

Master of Ceremonies and DANK Chap-

From left, Ava Young, Dora Totzke, Adina Young ter Lake County, IL Honorary President Karl Schmidt read the poem The Good Comrade. A wreath was placed on each grave by DANK Lake County President Greg Hoeft as Mr. Soos read the soldier's name.

Bernd Krämer and Werner Stein, car-

Mario Soos at microphone; behind him, from left, Michael Ianni, Karl Schmidt, Christa Garcia, Greg Hoeft.

rying the American and German flags, led the procession to the gravesite. The day was memorialized in prayer by the Reverend Richard Käske, DANK Chapter Lake County, IL member, and in song by members of the combined Rheinischer Gesang Verein and Schwäbischer Sängerbund, directed by Glen Sorgatz.

On December 13 we gathered in the clubhouse of the Bonnie Brook Golf Course in Waukegan, IL for our Christmas luncheon. There was no snow, but the setting was beautiful nonetheless.

And there was plenty of holiday cheer as we enjoyed cups of warm Glühwein, a delicious lunch, and nonstop Gemütlichkeit. After the meal, we all joined in a Christmas carol sing-along to music played on her accordion by Dora Totzke.

We have Ludwina Homer, party planner extraordinaire, to thank for arranging this very enjoyable luncheon for us.

We look forward to many more gettogethers in 2016, starting with our bowling and pizza party at Bertrand Lanes in Waukegan on January 31.

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February/March 2016

Chapter Chatter Ft. Custer Volkstrauertag DANK Chapter Benton Harbor honored 26 German prisoners of war who died in the United States. The ceremony took place at Ft. Custer on Sunday, November 15, 2016.

Event organizer Randy O'Neil read a letter from Germany's Consul General Herbert Quelle, "Volkstrauertag offers the opportunity to think of our responsibility as human beings. Only a few of us are direct decision-makers when it comes to war and peace, but everyone has an opinion. And today that opinion should be dominated by the terrible suffering that wars and terror bring to mankind. We are not only mourning our German soldiers, but our thoughts go to all victimes worldwide.

Lt. Col. Klaus Oberweg of WrightPatterson Air Force Base gave part of the memorial address.

Wreaths for the Ft. Custer Volkstrauertag were made by Donna Lippert of the DANK Benton Harbor Chapter

South Bend, IN Chapter Christmas Party

Every year at the first Sunday of Advent , the St. Paul's Lutheran Church in South Bend has a German Christmas Service. Pastor Fiechtner enjoys it when the German speaking community gets together to pray and sing in German.

At the end of the service candles are lit, while the lights are being turned off and we sing the very famous and sentimental song " Stille Nacht, Heilige Nacht".

Afterwards everyone is invited for coffee and cookies in the community hall.

The DANK Christmas party took place in Weiss' Gasthaus December the 6. Members and friends enjoyed a warm and cozy luncheon by candlelight.

Trudy's hot spiced wine added to the Christmas atmosphere. The highlight was definitely singing our favorite German Christmas songs. It brings back memories from our childhood and the way it used to be at Christmas. The party concluded with coffee, cake and cookies and a feeling of good friendship.

Please mark your calendars for the coming events in 2016. We are starting out with a Fasching-Madigras party at Weiss' Gasthaus February 6, 5:30 PM. Best costume will win a prize.

I wish you all a Happy and most of all Healthy New Year.

Christine Weiss

DANK Chapter Benton Harbor - St. Joseph honors german POW's at Ft. Custer

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Chapter Chatter Fasching Party set for Bay City's Stein Haus DANK Chapter Bay City is going all out to celebrate Karneval this year. The big event is taking place on Saturday, February 6 at the Stein Haus, 1120 N. Water St., Bay City. A German-American buffet will be served.

A musical concert by German Connection, a 12 piece brass band of musicians will be playing favorite lively music just like the town squares of Europe

Bay City cooks up sauerkraut DANK Bay City was busy with footlong kitchen knives, shredders and crocks, turning 22 huge heads of cabbage into a 45 gallon sauerkraut making bee. Members gathered on the Stein Haus patio to join in the task of filling

German Kartoffelsalat and red cabbage.

Bay City has a rich heritage of immigration of many ethnic groups including Irish, French, Polish and of course, a strong showing of Germans, who were drawn to this area for the fertile farm

Interior of the Stein Haus, where the DANK Bay City Chapter meets with authentic European music scores.

The band members will be decked out in native German lederhosen and dirndls, helping create a festive Mardi Gras/Karneval atmosphere

Upcoming deadlines for the DANK GermanAmerican Journal To keep this magazine on schedule for on-time delivery please use the following schedule for upcoming issues:

April/May: March 10 June/July: May 10 Chapter news and pictures should be sent to the editor, Ron Kabitzke at lutheran@wi.rr.com. If you need assistance of any kind please call me and I will be more than happy to assist you. My number is 262.675.6336

The Bay City Stein Haus patio was turned into an outdoor kitchen for making sauerkraut by DANK Chapter Bay City crocks and pails with shredded cabbage and the appropriate ratio of kosher salt to turn it into sauerkraut, a favorite German food item.

The sauerkraut is a staple at the Stein haus and was used for the Oktoberfest buffet during the DANK National convention held in Bay City this past October and hosted by the Bay City Chapter.

Bay City is fortunate to have representatives from the farming industry with a passion for preserving the culture of German foods and haw they are produced. One of the charter members, Don Gaeth, guided the rest of the group to get it just right.

Stein Haus, the official meeting place of DANK Chapter Bay City is only too happy to provide a venue and promote all that is German. Many dishes on the menu are of German origin including Schnitzel and wurst with sauerkraut,

land, a natural part of the German history.

Bay City's local DANK Chapter joined with the Irish in Bay City with a promotion of selling green German hats to raise money to send to Germany to help with their commitment to the Syrian refugee crisis.

The green hats will come in handy during the huge St. Patrick's celebration, culminating in the parade taking place on Sunday, March 20, 2016.

Plans are in the works for participating in the parade with a German theme float to promote our local DANK Chapter.

DANK Chapter Bay City #78 meets at the Stein Haus the first Monday of each month at 7 pm with a meeting, activities, films about Germany, speakers, bier and a sing along after the meeting. Fun for all.

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February/March 2016

Germany’s Shadow

by S. W. Kirch, M.A. What does it mean to be a German, living in the USA of 2015? It’s something my son has been grappling with ever since he discovered the horrible history of the Holocaust. Five years ago, it was during the lucidity of a 3:00 a.m. period of wakefulness, when the thoughts I had tried to quell during the busy day came back, unbidden and stronger: “How can I help him to bridge this gap between what is, and what ought to be?”

Up until about third grade, he had known the basics about war and its participants, reasons, and arenas. He was also aware that Germany had been the instigator for two World Wars. His paternal German grandfather’s first memory was of his 4-year-old self-fleeing the fire bombings of the industrial area around Cologne, Germany. His grandson, my son, had heard some of the stories, but not the worst one – how, after the war, some American soldiers rounded up the whole village, children and elderly included, and took them to the forest to witness the unearthed mass graves of their former Jewish neighbors.

It has been this realization for my son – that someone whom he loves almost more than anyone else – his Opa, was around during the reign of such a terrible leader. Adding to that is the fact that he has read accounts of people knowing about the atrocities and yet doing nothing.

How do you explain to a child that the forces of propaganda and brainwashing had been put into effect? How do you explain that anti-Semitism was, and is, a virus, which has infected many more countries than just Germany? Talking about the Spanish Inquisition, which targeted Jewish occupants of Spain, or the unveiled letters from Mussolini to his mistress, where he disclosed his own animosity towards Jews, does nothing to diminish the feeling that all the Germans he knows are infected with “Nazi Blood”.

From there I tried to explain that the Nazis were a political party, not a race of people; therefore, his Great-Grandfather

made a choice to join a party, but he wasn’t born one way or another. In my son’s eyes, this does not make the inexplicable, man’s inhumanity to man, any more understandable.

Hearing him rail against the Germans, knowing the words are tinged with pain and hurt, makes it even harder for me to stay calm. I’ve tried though – I’ve tried to paint a picture of the positive. That’s been easier: some of the most caring, fun and trustworthy people I know, after 10 years of living in their country, are Germans. So, I wanted him to comprehend how more often than not, a person’s strength, if used unwisely, can become a weakness.

This, I feel was the case for many Germans in Germany. Their ability to work together, and follow rules, has made them a forerunner in environmentally friendly resource management. Whether an elderly woman, or a college-age “tree-hugging” man, everyone there recycles. The trashcans, which are labeled for separation of different waste (plastics, metals, paper), stand sentry at the airports, and can be found in every household. Nonetheless, a man whose face has come to be the embodiment of evil, exploited this same mentality of valuing the community over the individual.

Hitler was, I told my son, first of all, Austrian – still no help. As a child, I continued, he suffered from abuse and neglect –so? You’re right, I said, but he was also not the first dictator to promise the world and deliver hell instead; he’s just the most well-known and relatively recent one. Then, I resorted back to my own memories - I too remembered wondering about the pictures of the small man with the mustache, who looked so severe, and was capable of such great hatred.

Growing-up, we spent every New Year’s with my parents’ closest friends, who are Jewish. I remember finding out at a relatively early age that my father’s friend had escaped Berlin, with his family, when he was also only four years old.

His own grandmother had been sent to the concentration camp ovens. Yet, the impact of this, while terrible, was not debilitating.

I knew that my own maternal grandfather had been stationed overseas as an engineer in WWII, yet, after the war, he also went to visit his wife’s distant German cousins, and he and my grandmother continued to send care packages to them for many years. To me, these were important gestures, ones which recognized the complication of human nature.

Yet, it’s not enough for a little boy, who spent the first five years of his life eating, speaking, living…German. Neither is an article I told him I had read, where a Jewish woman, who survived the Holocaust and later moved to Israel, described a German soldier who couldn’t stop sobbing as he shuttled her and her family into a waiting train bound for Dachau. Rather, my son has come to feel the collective guilt, and has no idea how to eschew it.

At least, as stated by a Jewish-American friend of mine, who also married a German, there IS guilt. She spent her sophomore year of college in Japan.

There, she said, there was never a word about the Japanese involvement in unspeakable experiments on, and treatment of, the Chinese. In contrast, there are regular reminders of Germany’s role in the genocide of a religious group – whether it was a politician offering a wreath to the Polish government, a tribute to Lilo Herrmann (one of the students who tried to organize resistance to the Nazis), or a public denouncement of “deniers”, there is no chance to escape constant references to it. While commendable for being open and honest about it, after a few years, it also started to annoy me.

After all, as an American, I knew that my countrymen and government had been responsible for horrors of their own: atomic bombings, lying to/cheatPlease see Shadow on page 21

February/March 2016

Shadow from Page 20 ing and “re-educating” Native Americans, and even, in 1968, the throwing into the air and shooting of Vietnamese babies in My Lai. This, to me, although unspeakably cruel, does not mean that all Americans are one way or the other.

Just as no one person is all bad or all good, I told my son, no country has a monopoly on evil. It doesn’t matter. It all doesn’t matter. If he could have located it, he would have cut out whatever it is that makes him German. Of course, this would mean chipping away at his very life source, since his core is more German than American by nature. It is his very capacity for deep reflection; joy in verse and appreciation of simplicity that marks his character. These cultural traits have been developed over thousands of years, not just the 20 some that marked an angry Adolph’s reign.

Maybe if I tell him about Israel…

Since I grew up in the States, which is politically pro-Israel, I never heard anything negative about this complex country. It wasn’t until my early twenties, when I met and befriended a German woman, whose sister had married a man from Palestine, did I hear anything disconcerting – how her brother-in-law had been imprisoned and beaten by the Israeli Police for being at the wrong place at the wrong time. When I asked my Jewish-American friend about it, she said that the only way for her to understand much of the brutality found in Israel was to think about how, more often than not, a child who is abused grows up to be an adult who abuses. After centuries of maltreatment, more than likely the wrong message – one of violence – had been sent.

At the same time, I don’t want to enter into any more areas of ambiguity with my son. He’s a voracious reader, so my hope is that he’ll find whatever answer he’s seeking in-between the pages of books. Until then, I’ll have to be content to wait.

My own definition, at any rate, is that being German means being strong enough to stand being chained to the shadow of evil. Every single person is

German - American Journal aware that there are sinister forces in the world. The problem is, these malevolent powers are themselves abstract. In order for us to feel more able to confront them, we want them to have a face.

Hitler and the Holocaust have come to symbolize this wickedness and everything that stands for horror, treachery and the myriad of other vices. This is why my son has already had to hear taunting from neighborhood children about being a “Nazi”, and even movies like “Happy Feet” give the antagonist (the sea lion) a German accent. Is it fair? No. Is it human nature to want to stereotype people from different places

Page/Seite 21 and make life easier? – Definitely. My concern though, is that he would never let this shadow engulf him. For that is what it is, a throw-off of the light against a solid object, somehow distorting the real shape.

The world needs Germany, in order to have a scapegoat for all the darkness, which is inherent in our common existence; but my son needs Germany as a foundation upon which to build his own identity. If I could only cut the shadow off, shake it, and expose it in the light, I think I would be able to minimize the horror, but the chain keeps rattling.

Germany and Cuba agree to open Havana trade office Burying old Cold War tensions, Germany and Cuba have agreed to open a trade office in Havana. German Vice Chancellor and Economy Minister Sigmar Gabriel said the countries "want a new partnership on an eye-to-eye level."

The memorandum, signed by Sigmar Gabriel (above, center) at the start of his two-day trade visit on Thursday, could prove to be beneficial to German businesses seeking to invest in Cuba, and potentially increase the current 225 million euros ($244.22 million) in annual bilateral trade.

Speaking at the launch of a forum of German businesses and Cuban government officials, Gabriel said the deal marked "the start of a very dynamic process for our bilateral economic relations."

"Part of this process will also surely be to modernize our political relations," the vice chancellor added.

"There were difficult times for economic and political cooperation, and now is a good time to change that."

Echoing Gabriel's sentiments, Cuba's foreign trade minister, Rodrigo Malm-

ierca, said he too saw "great potential" to strengthen ties as Cuba reforms its economy.

Prior to the reunification of Germany in 1990, West Germany was a rival of Communist Cuba, with Havana a staunch ally of the Soviet-controlled East.

Over the past 25 years relations have thawed, and Germany is now Cuba's fourth-biggest European trade partner.

In 2014, their bilateral trade was worth $378 million.

After Canada, Germany is also Cuba's second-biggest source of foreign tourists in the world. Between January and November last year, more than 154,000 Germans visited the island.

Following its historic move to restore diplomatic ties with the US last year, Cuba is quickly gaining interest from companies around the globe.

During his visit, Gabriel was due to meet with his Cuban counterpart Miguel Diaz-Canel and other cabinet ministers.

Also on the agenda was a visit to gasbottling Oxicuba S.A., where German industrial gases supplier Stefan Messer GmbH has been involved in a joint venture with the Cuban government since 2001. ©ksb/rc (Reuters, AFP)

German - American Journal

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February/March 2016

A look ahead – into the sky Mercury will pass right in front of the sun. Two spacecraft will reach their planets.

Hobby astronomers will be rewarded with a total and a partial solar eclipse.

Only the moon will disappoint in 2016...

The new year is dedicated to Mars and Jupiter. On July 4th, NASA-spaceship Juno will reach Jupiter and enter into an orbit around the planet. For one year, the spacecraft is scheduled to in-

vestigate its atmosphere, magnetic field and the topography of the giant planet.

Juno is considered a "green" spacecraft. Never before has a spacecraft so far away from the sun, relying on solar power alone. All previous missions to outlying planets were so far equipped with nuclear-powered batteries.

What is the best place for the next mission?

For March, the European Space Agency ESA is planning the launch of the Exomars Trace Gas Orbiter. The spacecraft is expected to reach the red planet in October.

There are a number of spacecraft already orbiting Mars, and two landing robots are currently operating on the ground. But Mars is no easy field for the researchers. It is still not clear, if conditions there would theoretically allow life on that planet or if there even may be simple forms of life somewhere hidden inside the soil of the Mars.

That's why the new ESA spacecraft is going to analyse the trace gasses in the atmosphere. Specifically, the researchers are looking for methane, which could indicate some biological activity.

When reaching the planet, the Exomars Trace Gas Orbiter will release a small capsule, which is a test run for later landing maneuvers. In the second part of the Exomars mission, a rover labora-

tory is supposed to land there in 2018 and look for possible life in the sand.

A spectacular end to the Rosetta mission Also the ESA Rosetta mission was dealing with the origins of life in our solar system. Since August 2014, the spacecraft has been orbiting the com-

smallest planet will travel right between Earth and the sun. For more than seven hours, it will slowly move over the sun and will be visible to some of us.

This will be the case in most parts of the world with the exception of East Asia, Australia and New Zeeland. The

There will be two solar eclipses in 2016 - don't forget your special protective shades! et 67p/Churyumov-Gerasimenko. In November 2014, it released its lander Philae onto the rock with a diameter of about four kilometers.

Now, in summer 2016 the Rosetta mission is likely to come to an end with a spectacular maneuver. Following the example of Philae, Rosetta is supposed to land - even though the spacecraft was not designed for that. During the landing, Rosetta will send more data back to earth. Once the spacecraft has crash landed, it will probably cease to work. But the data the scientists have gotten and will yet get will keep them busy for years and even decades to come.

Mercury gives us a mini eclipse The astronomical highlight of 2016 will be the passing of Mercury in front of the solar disk. On May 9th, the

best place to observe it is northern and western Europe, Greenland and parts of North and South America.

Unfortunately, Mercury is so small that it is impossible to see it with the naked eye - even when using the obligatory eye safety protection. With binoculars or a telescope, it should be possible to make the transit of Mercury visible, however.

Beware of the sunlight!

Never, ever look directly into the sun! The worst eye damage and even complete blindness could be the result!

If you are not familiar with solar-observation please ask for advice at a local astronomers club or a community planetary observatory.

Even better: Attend one of the many Please see The Sky on page 23

German - American Journal

February/March 2016

The Sky from Page 22 public events, which professionals are going to organize in many countries all over the world. The passing of planets like Mercury in front of the solar disc is a rather rare event. The next mini solar eclipse will be in 2029.

A total and a ring-shaped solar eclipse On March 9, there will be a "real" solar eclipse, in which the moon will cover all of the sun. It will be visible in a 150 kilometer wide stripe, reaching all the way from Indonesia through large parts of the Pacific. For four minutes, the moon will cover the sun completely and turn day into night.

In Japan, China, southeastern Asia, large parts of Australia and in Hawaii and Alaska, this will be visible as a partial eclipse. Since it passes the dayline, the eclipse will be visible in Hawaii and Alaska already on the evening of March 8th.

On September 1, the moon will again move itself in front of the sun.

But it will be when it is at the farthest reaches of its orbit. That means the lunar disc is too small to cover all of the sun. The event will thus appear as a ring-shaped eclipse and it will last for about three minutes.

Enthusiasts can watch the event within a 100-kilometer wide stripe that reaches from the Atlantic equator through central Africa to the northern end of Madagascar. As a partial eclipse, it will be visible all over Africa and in the westernmost areas of Australia.

Disappointing Moon There will not be a real Lunar eclipse in 2016. Only three times does the moon touch the half shade of planet earth. It will still be completely visible, then, but the edges will appear darker.

Most likely, only experts will notice.

But at least in 2017 there will be a partial lunar eclipse. And one year after that, all hobby astronomers will be compensated by two total lunar eclipses. For 2016, take solace with the other celestial events!

And the saving grace - we will get a leap year with 366 nights! © Deutsche Welle (DW)

Page/Seite 23

Werder Bremen to trial US international Jordan Morris

USA Fußballspieler Jordan Morris Werder Bremen could be adding another American forward to their squad.

They will be giving United States national team youngster Jordan Morris a trial during the winter break, the club released in a statement Tuesday.

Morris (21), a third-year student at Stanford University, will join Bremen's training camp on January 11 in Belek, Turkey as the Bundesliga club prepares for the second half of the Bundesliga season. He will leave after the Hermann Award trophy - given to the best collegiate player of the season - ceremony in St. Louis, Missouri, according to American sports magazine "Sports Illustrated".

Bremen brought in United States international Aron Johannsson over the summer, but the forward has played just

seven matches before suffering hip issues. Morris, currently part of the Seattle Sounders organization in Major League Soccer, would add attacking depth behind Anthony Ujah, Fin Bartels and Claudio Pizarro. Bremen have played down any definitive transfer possibilities though.

"It's a good opportunity for us to get to know the player better. Nothing more, nothing less," said sporting director Thomas Eichin.

Morris will forego his final season at Stanford University, the university anounced on their website Tuesday.

He helped the Cardinal win their first NCAA Division 1 soccer championship in December. He has made seven appearances for the United States, including one start against Mexico in a friendly.

According to "Sports Illustrated", Morris was supposed to spend his winter break from university in Jürgen Klinsmann's January camp with the United States national team. He will instead join the team on January 20, allowing him to train with Bremen.

Exchange Rates 1 USD = 0.91812 EURO 1 EURO = 1.08918 USD 1 – 11 –16

DANK Chicago mourns the passing of

Ilse Scharpenberg Ilse Scharpenberg, 96 of Arlington Heights was born March 3, 1919 in Germany and passed away December 11, 2015. Ilse was the beloved wife of the late William "Willy" Scharpenberg; loving mother of Jurgen (Christa) Scharpenberg; cherished grandmother of Charise (late Gunther) Kalogridis, Brandon (Sue) Scharpenberg and Kevin (Tanya) Scharpenberg and great-grandmother of Ryan, Joshua, Emma, Connor and Finley. Ilse and Willy were Life Members of DANK. In lieu of flowers, contributions to Glenview Terrace Nursing Center, 1511 Greenwood Road, Glenview, IL 60025 or Journeycare Hospice and Palliative Care, 405 Lake Zurich Road, Barrington, IL 60010 appreciated.

Page/Seite 24

German - American Journal

February/March 2016

Aus Oma's Küche Struwen, Germany's Fried Yeast Pancake Recipe

By Francine McKenna Another of Germany's Easter traditions that are enjoyed throughout the year these days. Struwen, fried yeast pancakes, which for generations were served on Karfreitag, Good Friday, in Muensterland, North Rhine-Westphalia. A Muensterland specialty.

When the Lenten fast was followed, and no meat allowed, the sweet fried yeast pancakes were cooked in rendered animal fat, and this supplied the energy necessary to complete whatever work was to be done. Especially on

the region's farms.

Of course during a Fast neither eggs nor raisins should have been added but the rules were often bent somehow.

Now, even though they are enjoyed throughout the year and are found in Farmer's Markets and chic Bistro's as well as favorite Hausmannskost, home cooked meal, on Karfreitag Struwen will definitely appear in most Muensterland homes.

STRUWEN RECIPE - for 10

INGREDIENTS: 1000 g – 2 lb 2.1/2 oz all purpose flour 400g – 1.3/4 cups lukewarm milk

4 standard eggs, lightly beaten just to break up 150 g – 5.1/3 oz sugar 300 g – 10 oz raisins (Put raisins into bowl and cover with cold water for about 15 minutes, drain and dry well.

This ensures that they stay moist and don't harden while cooking) 80 g – just under 3 oz yeast Pinch of salt Butter or cooking oil METHOD: Tear the yeast into small pieces, place to the lukewarm milk and stir.

Sprinkle a tablespoon of the sugar over mixture.

Place flour into a bowl, make a hollow and into this place the yeast/milk mix.

Introduce the flour gradually from the sides into the yeast mass and knead until combined.

Cover bowl with a damp cloth, or plastic wrap, and leave in a warm place for an hour while it rises.

Add the raisins, eggs, sugar, salt, mix thoroughly and leave covered for another hour.

(The small amount of salt brings out the flavor as well as controlling the yeast growth, and it is possible to have just one

proving time, adding all the remaining ingredients after mixing the yeast into the flour saves an hour but proving twice makes a lighter texture) From the dough make small flat shapes about 7cm/3 inches in size. Using two large spoons to do this makes shaping and flattening very easy.

Drop into the melted butter or heated cooking oil and fry slowly on both sides for two to three minutes, until no

raw dough appears after a small cut is made with a knife and the Struwen are golden brown.

Serve warm. It is a good idea to use two pans for cooking as this way the Struwen do not have to be kept warm for long.

These fried yeast pancakes are a typical "Westfaelisches Karfreitagsgericht", along with "Biersuppe" and "Pumpernickel" amongst others, and very filling.

Traditionally served with Sugar, Cinnamon or a prepared mixture of both, and a Fruit Compote, such as apple or plum, is also very popular.

Muensterland, famous for its over 100 castles, bicycle culture and "Struwen". And no need to save them only for a once a year "Good Friday Feast", they can be enjoyed at anytime.

Both photos of Muensterlaendisches Struwen are from Andreas Wolter (Woltera), via de.Wikpedia

February/March 2016

Page/Seite 25

German - American Journal

Tipps zum Deutsch lernen

Tips for Learning German

So gut sollte man die deutsche Sprache beherrschen

How much German you really need

von Clara Görtz Im Alltag kommt man in Deutschland meistens auf Englisch gut zurecht. Auf der Arbeit und im Studium werden aber oft Deutschkenntnisse erwartet. Die wichtigsten Adressen für Deutschlerner.

By Clara Görtz In everyday life you can generally get by in Germany using English too. But at a job and at GERMAN UNIVERSITIES communication is generally in German. Here you can find out where you can learn the LANGUAGE.

Kultur, Sprache und Informationen über Deutschland vermitteln auf der ganzen Welt die 160 Goethe-Institute.

Die mehrsprachige Website führt eine große Auswahl an Deutschkursen auf, die überall auf der Welt angeboten werden. Sogar Online-Kurse können Deutschlerner belegen. Manche der Deutschkurse vermitteln die Grammatik der deutschen Sprache. In anderen Kursen lernt man etwa die Aussprache deutscher Wörter oder die Fachsprache aus Fachgebieten wie Wirtschaft, Jura, Medizin, Biologie, Technik und Natur. Wer schon ein wenig Deutsch spricht, kann seine Sprachkenntnisse spielerisch testen – das GoetheInstitut bietet ein Online-Memory an. https://www.goethe.de/de/spr/kup.html http://www.goethe.de/ins/si/lju/lrn/onl/de10470531. htm?wt_sc=memo-spiel

The 160 Goethe-Instituts worldwide help to spread the culture and LANGUAGE of Germany, as well as information about the country. The institution’s multilingual website lists a wide selection of German courses taking place both in your home country and in Germany. You can even follow online courses.

In some of the German courses you will learn the grammar of the German LANGUAGE. Other courses teach you how to pronounce German words or technical LANGUAGE from certain specialist fields such as business, law, medicine, biology, technology and nature. Perhaps you already speak some German? You can put your LANGUAGE knowledge to the test by playing a game – the Goethe-Institut offers an online memory game for you to try. https://www.goethe.de/en/spr/kup.html http://www.goethe.de/ins/si/lju/lrn/onl/de10470531. htm?wt_sc=memo-spiel

Deutschkurse des Goethe-Instituts

Onlinesprachkurse

In Onlinekursen kann man überall auf der Welt Deutsch lernen. Neben dem Goethe-Institut gibt es viele andere Anbieter für Onlinesprachkurse, zum Beispiel das in deutscher Sprache verfügbare E-Learning-Portal „Deutsch-Uni Online“ (DUO).

Auch die Deutsche Welle bietet einen – sogar kostenlosen – Onlinedeutschkurs an. Das Hör- und Sehverstehen kann man hier mit Audios und Videos trainieren. Außerdem sind etwa 750 interaktive Übungen und Tests sowie Arbeitsblätter und Aussprachehilfen online abrufbar. Wer zuerst überprüfen möchte, wie gut er die deutsche Sprache schon beherrschst, findet auf der deutschsprachigen Website „Online-Einstufungstest Deutsch als Fremdsprache“ (onDaF) dazu viele Informationen. http://www.deutsch-uni.com/gast/duo/info/index. do?do=index http://deutschkurse.dw.de https://www.ondaf.de/ondaf/info/home.jsp

German courses at the Goethe-Institut

Online LANGUAGE courses

Would you like to improve your German from the comfort of your own home? No matter where you are living, online courses offer you the chance to learn German wherever you are in the world. Alongside the Goethe-Institut there are many other providers of online LANGUAGE courses, for example the e-learning portal “Deutsch-Uni Online” (DUO), which is available in German. Deutsche Welle also offers an online German course, which is even free of charge. You can perfect your listening and reading comprehension with audios and videos available here. There are also around 750 interactive exercises and tests, as well as worksheets and pronunciation aids available online. Do you first wish to find out how well you already speak German? You can find a lot of information on this on the German-language website “Online-Einstufungstest Deutsch als Fremdsprach” (onDaF, an online test to assess your level of knowledge of German as a foreign language). http://www.deutsch-uni.com/gast/duo/info/index. do?do=index http://deutschkurse.dw.de/KursPlattform/WebObjects/ KursPlattform.woa/wo/2.1 https://www.ondaf.de/ondaf/info/home.jsp

University courses

Viele HOCHSCHULEN bieten – manchmal kostenfreie

Many universities offer German LANGUAGE courses – some of them free of charge – in which you can improve your LANGUAGE knowledge after arriving in the country. Perhaps

Please see Deutsch lernen on page 28

Please see Learning German on page 28

Hochschulkurse

German - American Journal

Page/Seite 26

February/March 2016

Gebrauchsanweisung für Berlin

Instruction Manual for Berlin

Brenda Strohmaier, Autorin des Buches „Wie man lernt, ein Berliner zu sein“, spricht im Interview über das Besondere an Berlin.

Brenda Strohmaier, author of “Wie man lernt, ein Berliner zu sein” (i.e. How to Learn to Be a Berliner), talks about what makes Berlin special.

Frau Strohmaier, wieso ist BERLIN international so angesagt?

Im Vergleich zu London, New York oder Kopenhagen ist es immer noch günstig. Die Künstler waren ja die ersten, die nach BERLIN kamen und fanden es hier unglaublich, weil man preiswerte Ateliers mieten konnte. Dann kam dazu, dass BERLIN so viele Freiflächen hatte und zum Teil auch heute noch hat.

Was macht denn das „Berlin-Gefühl“ aus?

Es ist das Gefühl, dass in BERLIN mehr möglich ist als in anderen Städten. Berliner behaupten gerne, dass man hier auch nackt herumlaufen könnte, ohne dass jemand davon Notiz nähme.

Nun verändert sich BERLIN sehr stark und es ziehen immer mehr neue Leute hinzu. Geht dadurch nicht dieser Charme verloren?

Ich glaube nicht. Wenn man in die Geschichte zurückblickt, dann ist BERLIN früher schon viel schneller gewachsen als heute. Zwischen 1860 und 1910 zogen drei Millionen Menschen die Stadt und passten sich an. Das gilt auch heute. Dieses Räudige und Lässige, das BERLIN hat, das gibt es alles noch. Wir kämpfen hier für Toleranz – diese Haltung wird sich nicht so schnell verlieren.

Kann man lernen, ein Berliner zu sein?

Nicht jeder kann das lernen. Dazu gehört auch, dass man Toleranz als die gute Seite des hier verbreiteten „ScheißegalGefühls“ versteht. Aber es gibt Leute, die sich nicht integrieren und immer nur den Dreck in der Stadt sehen oder die vielen Graffitis an den Hauswänden. Wer sich in BERLIN dauerhaft wohl fühlen will, muss verstehen, dass die Stadt viele Freiheiten bietet. Man wird toleranter, wenn man hier lebt.

Gibt es einen Ratschlag für Leute, die nach BERLIN kommen?

Ich empfehle, sich abseits der touristischen Pfade zu begeben. Einfach in die S-Bahn steigen, irgendwohin fahren und aussteigen. Man sollte zum Beispiel mal in den Südwesten der Stadt, nach Spandau fahren. Dort ist der Anteil an gebürtigen Berlinern sehr hoch. Wenn man sich da in eine Eckkneipe setzt, findet man noch das richtige, ursprüngliche BERLIN mit Typen wie „Knatter-Kalle“ und „Hertha-Harry“.

Ms Strohmaier, why does BERLIN enjoy such international popularity?

Compared with London, New York or Copenhagen it is still good value for money. Artists were the first to come to BERLIN and could not believe how cheap it was to rent a studio.

Added to this was the fact that BERLIN has so much open space, and to some extent still does to this day.

How would you define the “Berlin feeling”?

It is the sense that more is possible in BERLIN than in other cities. Berliners like to boast that you can wander around naked here without anyone even noticing.

BERLIN is currently undergoing very considerable changes, and more and more people are moving to the city.

Will BERLIN not lose its charm as a result?

I don’t think so.

Looking back at the city’s history, BERLIN has already seen periods of much faster growth than today.

Three million people moved to the city between 1860 and 1910 and adapted to life here. This is still the case today. The roughand ready, laid-back sides to BERLIN remain unchanged. We fight for tolerance here – an attitude we are not going to give up anytime soon.

Can you learn to be a Berliner?

Not everyone can. One aspect of this is to realize that tolerance is the positive side of the “don’t give a damn” attitude that is widespread here. However, there are those who do not integrate and always see only how dirty the city is or focus on all the graffiti on the walls of buildings. To feel at ease in BERLIN long-term, you have to understand that the city offers a great deal of freedom. Living here makes you more tolerant.

Do you have any advice for people coming to BERLIN? I recommend getting off the beaten track. Simply jump on the S-Bahn, travel somewhere and then get out and explore.

For example, it is worth heading to the west of the city, out to Spandau, which is home to a very large number of born-andbred Berliners. If you find yourself a corner pub there, it is still possible to find the real, authentic Berlin, with typical characters like “Knatter-Kalle” (chattering Karl) and “Hertha-Harry” (Harry the Hertha fan).

www.campus.de

www.berlin.de

© www.deutschland.de

www.campus.de

www.berlin.de

© www.deutschland.de

February/March 2016

Education Fund

German - American Journal

Donations

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February/March 2016

Deutsch lernen from Page 25

Learning German from Page 25

– Deutschkurse an, in denen man Sprachkenntnisse nach der Ankunft verbessern kann. Manchmal gibt es auch die Möglichkeit, an der Hochschule Sommerkurse zu belegen. In diesen „Summer Schools“ werden nicht nur Sprachtrainings angeboten. Teilnehmer können auch Kurse in Kunst, Architektur, Wirtschaft und vielen anderen Bereichen belegen. Einen Überblick gibt die deutsch- und englischsprachige Kursdatenbank des Deutschen Akademischen Austauschdienstes (DAAD). https://www.daad.de

you can also take advantage of summer courses at your university. These “Summer Schools” not only offer LANGUAGE training; you can also pursue courses in art, architecture, economics and many other subject areas. The best thing to do is take a look at the German- and English-language database of courses provided by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). https://www.daad.de/deutschland/studienangebote/sommerkurse/en/#p=l&q=&langDistribution=0&subject=0&sort By=undefined&page=1&display=list

In Deutschland bieten viele Volkshochschulen – das sind nicht-staatliche Ausbildungseinrichtungen – Deutschkurse an. Einen Überblick gibt die Website der deutschen Volkshochschulen. Auf der Startseite kann man direkt nach Deutschkursen suchen. Die Seite ist auf Deutsch verfügbar. http://www.vhs.de/

Have you already arrived in Germany and would like to improve your LANGUAGE skills? Adult education centres – which are non-state educational establishments – offer a range of German LANGUAGE courses. You can get a good overview by going to the German adult education centres website, where you can search for German LANGUAGE courses directly on the homepage. The site is available in German only.

Volkshochschulkurse

Adult education centre courses

German - American Journal

February/March 2016

Page/Seite 29

New Members We welcome our newest Life Members:

Barbara Guse, Benton Harbor Heinz Mahler, National David Pimm, Chicago David Vollrath, South Bend Bay City

Benton Harbor

Alan Kloha Kevin Kloha Lauretta Kloha Rodney Kloha Carol Park

James Dlouhy Barbara Guse Angelika Kirberg Uwe Kirberg

The WORDSEARCH is on Page 5

Stadt und Wahrzeichen

Chicago

Ingrid Durham Will Howard Isabelle Luzadder Matthew Luzadder Turiya Luzadder Warren Luzadder Brian Wattelet

Chicago South

Dan Leunig Jennie Leunig Kat Leunig

Milwaukee Teresa Karrels Jamie Lucin Dann Reske Karen Reske

Pittsburgh

Todd Fitzpatrick Bernadette Bove Samatha Foster South Bend Michael Hall Kathy Kahlhammer Henning Luppes Peter Kahlhammer Springfield Donald Oliveri Leah Olney Beckhoff Mindy Olivieri Sharon Bell Richard Rappold Chris Bron Virginia Rappold Elizabeth Bron Emma Papineau Gloria Deatherage Tom Papineau Andrea Marshall John Zager Abby Veile Julee Zager Ella Veile Chicago West Janel Veile Joerg Seifert Leah Veile Maggie Seifert Markus Veile Robin Yoggerst Cleveland Hermann Voit Linda Voit

Lake County

National

Jacob Nicholson

German - American Journal

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February/March 2016

Calendar Of Events February 1 3 5 6

Bay City, Meeting and activities, 7 pm Milwaukee, Singing, 7 pm DANK HAUS, Kultur Küche, 7:30 pm Bay City, Fasching Party, German-American Buffet and 12 -piece brass band 6 Milwaukee, Board Meeting, 12 pm 6 South Bend, Fasching-Mardigras Party 5:30 pm, at Weiss Gasthaus, 115 N. Dixie Way North, South Bend 10 Milwaukee, Dancing, 6 pm; Singing, 7 pm 14 Chicago West, Board Meeting, 1:30 pm 17 Chicago, Board Meeting, 7 pm 17 Erie, General Membership Meeting, 7 pm 17 Milwaukee, Singing, 7 pm 19 DANK HAUS, Stammtisch – Open House, 7:30 pm 21 Chicago South, Board Meeting, 2 pm 21 Phoenix, Board Meeting, 1 pm 24 Milwaukee, Dancing, 6 pm; Singing, 7 pm 26 DANK HAUS, German Cinema Now, 7:30 pm

March 4 DANK HAUS, Kultur Küche, 7:30 pm 5 Milwaukee, Germany Under Glass, 9 am - 5 pm, Mitchell Park Domes 7 Bay CIty, Meeting and activities, 7 pm 13 Chicago West, Board Meeting, 1:30 pm 13 Milwaukee, Membership Meeting, 1:30 pm, Sacred Heart 16 Chicago, Board Meeting, 7 pm 16 Erie, General Membership Meeting, 7 pm 18 DANK HAUS, Stammtisch – Open House, 7:30 pm 20 Chicago South, Board Meeting, 2 pm 20 Phoenix, Board Meeting, 1 pm 25 DANK HAUS, German Cinema Now, 7:30 pm

DANK Benton Harbor, MI 2015 Fish Fry Schedule Feb. 5, 2016 March 6, 2016 April 1, 2016 The House Of Gemütlichkeit DANK Haus - Benton Harbor

2651 Pipestone Rd. Benton Harbor, MI (269)926-6652 · www.dank13.org

April 1 4 10 13 13 15 17 17 22

DANK HAUS, Kultur Küche, 7:30 pm Bay City, Meeting and activities, 7 pm Chicago West, Board Meeting, 1:30 pm Chicago, Board Meeting, 7 pm Erie, General Membership Meeting, 7 pm DANK HAUS, Stammtisch – Open House, 7:30 pm Chicago South, Board Meeting, 2 pm Phoenix, Board Meeting, 1 pm DANK HAUS, German Cinema Now, 7:30 pm

Saturdays at the DANK HAUS Kino Kaffee & Kuchen – Heimat films in German, 2 pm Lost German Chicago Exhibit in Museum, 11 am - 3 pm

Language Schools Chicago North, Christian Liberty Academy, Arlington Heights, Adults and Children 4+, Satudays, 9:30 am – Noon Palatine H S, Adults and Children 5+, Monday's, 5:45 pm 8:15 pm For more info: 847.392.5352 Chicago South, Adult classes, German Conversational Courses, Thursday's, 6 pm – 8 pm, 6 week sessions

Meeting Locations for DANK Chapters Bay City meets at the Stein Haus, 1120 N. Water St., Bay City, MI, 48708 989.891.2337 Benton Harbor meets at their DANK Haus, 2651 Pipestone Rd. Benton Harbor, MI 49022 Tel. 269.926.6652 Chicago meets at the DANK HAUS, 4740 N. Western Av. Chicago IL 60625 773.561.9181 Chicago South meets at the DANK House, 25249 S. Center Rd, Frankfort, IL 60423 Tel. 815.464.1514 Chicago West meets at Redeemer Lutheran of Elmhurst, 345 S. Kenilworth Ave, Elmhurst, IL 60126 Tel. 630.805.1504 Erie meets at the Erie Männerchor Club, 1617 State St. Erie, PA, 16501 Tel. 814.835.1939 Milwaukee meets at the German Fest Office, W140N5761 Lilly Rd., Menomonee Falls, WI 53051 Tel 414.331.6957 Phoenix meets at Denny's, 2717 West Bell Road, Phoenix, AZ Tel. 602.569.9381

February/March 2016

German - American Journal

Page/Seite 31

German - American Journal

Page/Seite 32

Deutsche Hoffnungsträger Auf den Spuren von Dirk Nowitzki: die Nachwuchsstars Dennis Schröder und Tibor Pleiß.

Die zweite Saison brachte den Durchbruch; in seine dritte NBA-Spielzeit startet Dennis Schröder im Oktober 2015 bereits als Shootingstar der Atlanta Hawks – mit gerade einmal 22 Jahren. Beim NBA All-Star Weekend siegte Schröder im Frühjahr im „Rising Stars“-Duell mit anderen internationalen Talenten gegen das US-Team. Schröder hat das Potenzial, zur schillernden Marke seines Sports zu werden. So hat er für seine Frisur das Twitter-Hashtag #TheGoldenPatch erfunden; sein Spitzname „The Umlaut“ (für den deutschen Buchstaben „ö“ im Nachnamen) zählt zu den ungewöhnlichsten der NBA. Viele sehen in ihm schon den Nachfolger von Superstar Dirk Nowitzki von den Dallas Mavericks. Weniger bekannt, aber gleichfalls sehr talentiert ist der 25-jährige Tibor Pleiß (kl. Foto), der für die neue NBA-Saison von Barcelona zu den Utah Jazz gewechselt ist. Pleiß, wie Schröder und Nowitzki deutscher Nationalspieler, betont: „Ich bin extrem motiviert, den Jazz das Vertrauen zurückzuzahlen.“

German Hopefuls In the footsteps of Dirk Nowitzki: young stars Dennis Schröder and Tibor Pleiss.

The second season brought him the breakthrough: Dennis Schröder is starting his third NBA season for the Atlanta Hawks in October 2015 – and he’s already a shooting star at

DANK Decals are here!

Show everyone that you are a DANK member with this DANK Decal. Shown here is actual size and they look good on your bumper or rear window. It is a die-cut oval (there is no blue background when removed from the paper).

I have had mine on my rear window for over a year and a half and it has not faded. It still looks new. The cost is $2.00 each including shipping. For more information call 262.675.6336 or e-mail me at lutheran@wi.rr.com.

Order from and make your check payable to:

DANK Chapter Milwaukee ℅ Ronald Kabitzke 6811 Hickory Road West Bend, WI 53090-8948

February/March 2016

the tender age of 22! At the NBA All Star Weekend in the spring, Schröder and other inter­national talents beat the US team in the Rising Stars C ­ hallenge. Schröder has the potential to become a glittering brand name in his sport. He has invented the Twitter hashtag #TheGoldenPatch for his hairstyle, and his nickname The Umlaut (after the German letter “ö” in his surname) is one of the most unusual in the NBA. M ­ any people see him as the successor to superstar Dirk Nowitzki of the Dallas Mavericks. Less well known, but a­ lso very talent-ed, is 25-year-old Tibor Pleiss, who was transferred from Barcelona to the Utah Jazz for the new NBA season. Pleiss, who like Schröder and ­Nowitzki plays for Germany, stresses: “I couldn’t be more motivated to repay the trust the Jazz have shown in me.” www.tiborpleiss.com

228 207 8820