Home of the Stimmung Stunde!

DCS - Schlachtfest

2012-01-14T06:58:00.000-06:00

Date & Time
January 28, 2012 -- Dinner served at 6:00 pm & Program/Music begins at ?? pm

Ticket Info

Ticket Cost: $25 in Advance
Call: Eva Artmann at 262-784-3199

Description
This annual event held by the Danube Cultural Society (DCS) will feature a Traditional Dinner Menu of Schnitzel, Sarma, Hungarian Bratwurst, Blutwurst, Knoedel, Mashed Potatoes and Coleslaw. But save room for dessert, they will be serving the traditional plate of various homemade cookies placed on each table.

This event was started by the Apatiner Verein and has been passed down to the Danube Cultural Society (also on Facebook) to keep up this time honored tradition. There will be performances by the DCS Jugendgruppe and a special guest performance by the Muller Fasching Verein.

MUSIC: Phenix Band of Chicago

For more info about this event, visit the DCS website at: http://www.danubeculturalsociety.com/

Location
Croatian Sacred Heart Church Hall (Map)
917 N. 49th St. (just 2 blocks north of Wisconsin Ave), Milwaukee, WI 53208

Spielmannszug - Mardi Gras Maskenball

2012-01-12T07:54:00.001-06:00

Date & Time
January 210, 2012 - Time: Doors open at (details forthcoming)

Ticket Info

Ticket Cost: $12.00 per person
Purchase tickets at the door

Description
Get ready to celebrate with the Spielmannszug Milwaukee's Mardi Gras by dressing up in your favorite costume. There will be fabulous prizes for the best costume and you will have a lot more fun when you dress up in a costume.
School groups are welcome.
Music: Talisman

For more info, go to the Milwaukee Spielmannszug website. http://www.spielmannszug.org/

Location
Mt. Mary College (Map)
Caroline Hall, 2900 N Menomonee River Parkway, Milwaukee, WI 53222-4597

DCS Kirchweih

2011-09-23T16:16:00.000-05:00

Date & Time
October 8, 2011 -- Doors open 5 pm & Program begins at 7 pm

Ticket Info

Ticket Cost: $20 in Advance
Call: Eva Artmann at 262-784-3199
Dinner will be served at 6 p.m.
Menu: Rouladen, Spaetzle, Red Cabbage, Vegetables & Dessert

Music
Johnny Hoffmann & the Herzbuben will be playing for your dancing pleasure.

Description
This annual event held by the Danube Cultural Society (DCS) is fun for the whole family. In the past there was always food available for purchase but this year this popular dance includes a delicious Rouladen dinner. The Dinner will be served at 6 p.m. featuring Rouladen, Spaetzle, Red Cabbage Vegetables and Dessert. Don't miss this special treat.

As ususal the DCS dancers will perform after dinner. But the real fun starts when the auctioning of the Kirchweih strauss begins. Be part of the action and place a bid on the Kirchweih strauss. The big surprise comes at the end of the evening when the new "couple" is announced. Also, you can visit this group on facebook.

Location
Croatian Sacred Heart Church Hall (Map)
917 N. 49th St. (just 2 blocks north of Wisconsin Ave), Milwaukee, WI 53208

Spielmannszug - Bock Beer Fest

2011-04-16T10:38:00.000-05:00

Date & Time
April 30, 2011 - Time: Doors open at 5:00 pm

Ticket Info
$6.00 in advance
Advance tickets available at: Ray's Liquor (8930 W North Ave) & Weissgerber's Old German Beer Hall (1009 N. Old World Third St).

$7.00 at the door

Children 16 & under Free when accompanied by an adult
Free Admission for Active Military with ID

Music
Alte Kameraden Brass Band

Description
The Spielmannszug Milwaukee is proud to present their annual Bock Beer Fest. There are beer drinking contests and a king & queen are crowned at the end of the night. But there is plenty of fun in between those contests. Take a look at the slide show below with pictures of past Bock Beer fests. There were even some surprise guests from the Klements Racing Sausages. Rumor has it that they will be appearing again this year, so be sure to bring your cameras or at least the cell phones that have a camera built in.

There will be food available for purchase. Usually some delicious sausages (like brats & knackwurst) and a lot of homemade desserts.

Of course, there will be no lack of liquid refreshment that night. After all you cannot have a beer drinking contest and not have beer, right?

For more info, go to the Milwaukee Spielmannszug website. http://www.spielmannszug.org/

Location
Hart Park (map)
7300 W. Chestnut Street, (72nd & State), Wauwatosa, WI

Blaskapelle Milwaukee - Friuhlingsfest

2011-04-01T10:39:00.001-05:00

The Blaskapelle Milwaukee is going to celebrae Spring with their annual Fruhlingsfest. Come on out and support this new young band here in Milwaukee.

They are planning a great evening that includes dinner catered by Rupena's Fine Foods and live music featuring the Blaskapelle Milwaukee and Peggy Mueller & Friends with traditional German music.

Date & Time
May 21 , 2010 -- Doors open at 6:00 pm, Dinner served at 7:00 pm

Ticket Info

Ticket Cost: $30 in Advance
Call: Karl & Debbie Hacker at 262-251-1463

Please send your checks with a self-addressed envelope to:

Blaskapelle Milwaukee

N89 W17534 St. Thomas Dr.
Menomonee Falls, WI 53051

Description
This is a dinner dance to kick off the Spring season. It features a fabulous menu catered by Rupena's Fine Foods:

Pork Loin with Gravy
Spit Roasted Chicken
Sarma
Mashed Potatoes
Green Bean Almondine

Homemade Strudel
Authentic Dark Chocolate German Brownie

MUSIC: Blaskapelle Milwaukee and Peggy Mueller & Friends

For more info about this event, visit the Blaskapelle Milwaukee at: http://www.blaskapelle-milwaukee.com/

Location
St. Augustine Parish Hall (Map)
2025 S. 67th Place, Milwaukee, WI

Congrats to the new Royal Couple

2010-11-14T18:15:00.008-06:00

Last night the Rheinischer Verein, here in Milwaukee, held their season's crowning event. The new Princinpaar are Hansi & Peggy Mueller. Peggy is a well known musician here and an expert at playing the button box and Hansi accompanies here on the "spoons". We had great fun making wise cracks to poor Hansi about why doesn't your scepter have a spoon on top!

They certainly looked like royalty last night and gave the evening a special flare. Their nephew, Andy Hacker, came with his full 18 piece Blaskapelle, the Blaskapelle Milwaukee, and provided some real authentic Blasmusik. They had a special guest, Ernie Broeniman, who is the director of the Dorfkapelle. He joined the Blaskapelle and played right along with them like just another musician.

Johnny Hoffmann and the Herzbuben provided the dance music for the evening. There was

traditional music and people sang along with some of the songs. One thing different, was when some of

the youngins decided to do some Schunkeling like they do in Johnsonville. Take a look at the picture to the right; they lifted the table up above their heads, Wow!

I will be a wonderful carnival season with these two fun loving people as the royal couple. Be sure to watch/listen for this year's events. They are sure to have a few surprises.

Katie Buchert - Rest in Peace

2010-10-24T17:14:00.020-05:00

Katie Buchert, a well known member of the Milwaukee German-American community, found peace on Friday, October 22. She battled cancer for four years and fought this dreaded disease with all her strength. Several times they thought that she had overcome the cancer and started to live a normal life, just to be struck down again. Only her family really knows what Katie went through in those four years. She had many friends, but Mom & Dad were always at her side, whether taking care of her needs or encouraging her to have hope. Her sister, Jenny, and her young family offered support whenever Katie needed them. These two sisters were very close and even vacationed together.

Many in the Milwaukee German-American community only remember Katie as a young girl. She went off to college and many never saw her again because of the private war she was waging against Cancer. What is saddest is that this lovely 26 year old girl never got to be the young lady she was destined to become and grew up far too quickly and far too difficult a path for any to follow.

Friday, October 29,

Visitation -- 3 pm to 8 pm (map)

Schmidt Bartelt

N84 W17937 Menomonee Ave.

Menomonee Falls

Friday, October 30,

Celebration of Katie's Life -- 10 am (map)

Eastbrook Church

5385 N Green Bay Ave

Glendale

Following the service will be procession to: (map)

Resurrection Cemetery

93rd & Donges Rd

Mequon

Katie was part of the Danube Cultural Society and did ethnic dancing for most of her short life. The club became an extended family and also provided support during the difficult times. But most of all, they offered fun for Katie and helped her get through things with a smile on her face. Katie's mom, Mary, is the director of the dance group and was always there for Katie. Mary never gave up hope and was active in several Breast Cancer fund raisers.

Katie's Dad, Hans, was very supportive of his beautiful young daughter's plight and particiated in fundraisers for Breast Cancer Awareness at Boxhorn Gun Club each year with his fellow team mates, the DCShooters!

For more information please click here to go to JS Online announcement.

For those planning to attend the funeral or burial, the family asks that you wear something pink to denote her confrontation with Breast Cancer.

I have several pictures of Katie below and if you have some special pictures you would like included, please send them to me at mailto:StimmungStunde@gmail.com

and I will try to include them.

Katie has been an inspiration for many local people to renew the battle with Breast Cancer. She passed away on Breast Cancer Day is ironic, but it has also encouraged many to fight this horrible disease in their own way.

Belsy and Florian win the 2010 Grand Prix der Volksmusik

2010-08-28T15:45:00.001-05:00

I predicted that Belsy and Florian would win the prize on Facebook. And hooray! They won it! Personally I really liked the song and I think the blend of their voices was spot on. If you want to take a look at the website they have as a duo, just click on the link HERE. From there you can go to their individual websites or click on the Utube link they have at their website.

Congrats to Belsy & Florian upon being the winners of the 2010 Grand Prix der Volksmusik. I recorded the TV show, but as of this writing I have not had a chance to watch it yet. But I just had to cheat and peak who won.

This was a special 25th anniversary show and Marc Pircher was the host. I was a little upset with myself that I had somehow missed seeing the Vorentschied show for Germany. I talked to my friend, Maria Olliges, and she told me that ZDF had made the choice to NOT broadcast the show. So there was NO voting in Germany and just a panel of judges decided who was to go. I saw from the list that my friends, Feller and Feller, also were on the list. However, they did not make the finals. There always seems to be a lot of drama surrounding this event.

2010 Grand Prix der Volksmusik Vorentscheid

2010-08-21T08:50:00.001-05:00

Well, it is that time of year where the nominees for the annual Grand Prix der Volksmusik competition finalists has been determined. As many of you know, each country (Austria, Germany, Sudtirol & Switzerland) will have 4 representatives from each country that were determined in each country's competition. Then they send those top 4 to the final competion being held in Vienna next week on August 28, 2010.

If you go to the Grand Prix website here are a few things to make note of. You will see that Rudy Giovannini (interview with Stimmung Stunde 2006) competed in Sudtirol (link to uTube)

and was accompanied by the Vinschger

(interview with Stimmung Stunde 2007). Those of you who get the DISH German shows may have seen that competition in Sud Tirol. I did not get a chance to see the Grand Prix vorentscheid for Germany because we were in Germany at the time, but I am very disappointed that Feller & Feller (interview with Stimmung Stunde 2005) did not make the finals. Hansi Feller is a very talented singer/song writer and one of my favorites.

Those of you who watch German TV will notice that Florian Fesl is in the competition with Belsy as a duo. He was on the Immer Wieder Sonntags show all summer last year and lost the competion the very last week. Birgit Langer was the lead singer with Fernando Express for many years. The band has disbanded and she is starting a solo career. I saw her in Germany when we were at the Anni & Moni 20th Anniversary show and talked to her

about her new plans to be a solo act.

Here is a list of artists and their songs that will be in the finals on August 28 in Vienna. They are in the order they came in at their own country's competition and in some cases I have links to their webpages.

Please click on the Comments at the bottom of this posting and let us know who you predict to be the winner this year.

Austria

Marco Ventre & Band -- Sehnsucht wargestern

Junge Paldauer -- A Bass, a Gitarr und a Ziehharmonika

Die Woertherseer -- Komm tanzen mi amor

Die Grubertaler -- Wenn, dann jetzt

Germany

Die Berg Kameraden -- Cantata di Montagua

Angela Wiedl -- Der Liebe Gott macht das schon

Florian Fesl & Belsy Duo -- I hab Di gern

Birgit Langer - Komm und fang mit mir den Sonnenschein

Sudtirol

Volxrock -- Was macht das Edelweiss in meiner Supp'n

Geschwester Niederbacher -- Ein Leid fur Mama

Alex Pezzei & die Groedner Alphornblaeser --

Die Bergdiamanten -- Teures Heimatland

Switzerland

Nicolas Senn -- Feuer und Flamme

Yasmine-Melanie -- Traenen gehoeren zum Leben

Stixi & Sonja mit dem Jodelclug Alpenblueme -- Bete zu unserm Herrgott

Orig. Voralpen-Express -- Pfeif einfach drauf

German Fest Photos 2010

2010-07-21T20:11:00.008-05:00

I am going to take Photos at German Fest each day, so watch this post as I keep adding photo albums to this space.

Wednesday, July 21

This was the day before German Fest started. A mini-concert was scheduled on Old World 3rd Street with all the German Entertainers.

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Thursday, July 22

This was one wet day. It rained all day, but toward evening it REALLY got bad! First they shut down all the audio equipment. Then when it was reported that the weather was getting worse, they shut down everything. Our ride home from the fest grounds was a bit scary. There was a lot of flooding throughout the Milwaukee area and fear is that it will continue till tomorrow. All the pictures are mostly of the rain. I think the Butzenmaenner actually played for a little while, but the 30th Anniversary showcase never got started. Let's all hope that the weather will soon get better.

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Friday, July 23

The sun was shinning all day. I have several pictures of the Blaskappelle Milwaukee in this bunch of pictures and the German singers showcase.

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Saturday, July 24

I am short on time, but I wanted to get Saturday's pictures posted before I go down to the fest grounds. I will be updating these pictures next week.

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Sunday, July 25, 2010

Last day of German Fest. I have to get up on Monday at 4:30 am to start work at 6 am, but I wanted to get these pictures out for everyone. During the week I will return to the website to add captions. But in the meantime here are the pictures.

Please remember you can just click on the slide show and it will take you directly into the album on Picasa. Then find the photo you want to download -- right click on the photo and download it to your computer. It's all FREE. Love that Picasa.

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German Fest in Milwaukee is almost here

2010-07-18T10:20:00.017-05:00

I have not posted much about German Fest this year. I did not feel the need, because they have finally started using their website and posting much more information than they ever have in the past. If you are looking for deals or specials on some of the days, please be sure to go the the German Fest website. However, I did not want disappoint some of my readers and give you a little more info about the info this year. Also, I like to provide links to the artists' webpages, so if you would like more info on some of them it is available. (German Fest website does not provide them). I am not going to list the local acts this year, because it would just take too much space.

30th Anniversary Showcase - When you see this in the program it will include only entertainment from Europe. Such as, Claudia & Alexx, Francy B, Geschwister David, Golden Sixties Band, Max Lechner, Armin Stoeckl, and Regina Thoss

Claudia & Alexx - Those of you who attended the Christmas show in Milwaukee (or in Chicago) will notice that Claudia has a NEW Alexx. I am providing a picture taken by my friend, Maria Olligies, who sent this to me in April. Most of the previous advertising from German Fest did not provide this info, but I am happy to see that they updated their website recently. Also, here is a link to YouTube where Claudia is doing a single, Lass uns Fliegen. Personally I think she does not need to be a Duo. Her voice is very strong and can stand alone, but I guess everyone needs a gimmick. Click Here for Claudia's facebook page.

Francy B - This is a new name to me. I have not seen her on German TV, asked my friend in Germany about her and she is unfamiliar to her also. Not sure what kind of music she does, so it should be interesting.

Geschwister David - Recently the Geschwister David have been on Stefan Mross's Immer Wieder Sonntag's TV show, where they competed with their new song, Ach wär doch immerzu nur Sommer. It should be a treat to see these two talented girls. They usually seem to wear dirndls but I don't know if they yodel.

Golden Sixties Band - Again, this is band I am unfamiliar with. Robert Deglau has been advertising on his Continental Showcase that, of course, they play the oldies. He has played some cuts on his radio show and they sound very good.

Max Lechner - Max Lechner has appeared several times in the Chicago area, courtesy of Armin Homann, who is a DJ there. Max also brings other entertainers with him that he manages, such as Armin Stoeckl. Max was in Milwaukee for the Christmas show in 2008 and is happy to return to Milwaukee. Robert Deglau has invited Max to co-hosting the radio show, Continental Showcase, on Saturday, July 24, from the festival grounds.

Armin Stoeckl - The first time I saw Armin Stoeckl was in 2007 at Lake Villa. He was in a show with Romy, who has been on many German TV shows. Armin has some very nice songs and Robert Deglau has been playing them faithfully every week on his radio show, Continental Showcase. Robert invited Armin Stoeckl to do a Christmas show in Milwaukee in 2008. Max Lechner organized the Christmas tour and also had Birgit Pless in the show. This same show appeared in the Chicago area and there are many people in our area who have seen Armin Stoeckl in the past. Robert has been telling everyone to be sure and catch Armin's rendition of Elvis; he says it is a show stopper.

Regina Thoss - I do not know this entertainer either, but I like her website. It is easy to move around in and she looks like she has been around a long time. I saw a picture of her with the late Ted Hierl† (whom she identifies as Fred Hierl) in 1993 when she was in New Jersey. So this is not the first time she has been to the US.

Biba und Die Butzenmaenner - This is a group from Germany, but is not part of the showcase listed above. They were at German Fest about 2 years ago. They play a little more American style music and is there for the younger crowd. If you are over 50, don't expect to sing along with the songs they play. The picture to the left was taken when they were at German Fest last time. Elmar drove them around last time and found them polite and appreciative. Although the old like I had for these guys has been changed, when they arrived, I asked for the new web address. So just click on the link above & you will go straight to their website.

Continuing our Germany bus tour

2010-07-11T09:35:00.009-05:00

On May 10, we visited Wartburg. This is where Martin Luther translated the Bible into the German language. It is a beautiful spot with a fantastic view. That evening we had quit a line-up of entertainment. It started with a glass blowing demonstration with Wiilly and Regina Knoth. They have been to Milwaukee's German Fest and Willy is also part of the Sandlers. Willy is also a single entertainer and did a show for us that night. Felix Reuter did classical music with a comedic flare and had us all laughing. He is quite a talented young pianist. Then it was Mandy Bach's turn. She is a charming, pretty young women and she really got the guys to sit up straight in their chairs. Our friend, Henry, really liked her and we proceeded to tease him about it the rest of the trip. She has some nice songs and you can find more info about Mandy Bach on her website. Here is a link to the pictures we took there. .

May 11, we toured the town of Weimar, the birthplace of Goethe and we toured the city of Erfurt. The statue of Goethe & Schiller was especially interesting to us because a replica stood in Milwaukee in Washington park for many years. It was a very busy day, but it ended on a high note when we went to dinner to the Christoffelhaus. The food was from that period as well and was delicious. The menu offered such things as: Sackpfeifenschmaus, Schrotfladen mit Schwarz bierfleisch and Grill Haxe in Schwarzbiersosse. The servers were dressed in medieval period costumes. There was a lot of audience participation and we had a lot of fun that night. Pictured on the left is Siegelinde, who together with Otto documented our trip for the newspaper, New Yorker Staats-Zeitung. I found their account of this trip priceless in bringing back memories, providing details and helping me sort through all my photos. To see the pictures from that day's activities... .

May 12, again Peter & Gisela had us busy from morning till evening. We visited a traditional factory of Erzgebirge Holzkunst. They had wonderful handmade wood figurines, Christmas ornaments and just a variety of wood carvings. I did some great shopping here. Then we went spent the rest of the day in the city of Dresden. I was very impressed with this city; it had been severely bombed during the war and I was amazed at how they rebuilt the Frauen Kirche. We came back to our hotel for dinner and Heidi (formerly Heidi & Heiko who appeared several times at the Milwaukee German Fest) was waiting for us. She entertained our group that evening and even one of our group, Wolfgang Ribbert, sang a few songs for us that evening. Wolfgang is a former opera singer and has organized many music shows with German singers in the Ohio area. Wolfgang documented our trip and has 2 DVD's available of our trip. for the pictures.

May 13, we traveled to the Harz Mountains and had a ride a steam engine "bimmelbahn". The scenery was great, but it was cold that day and we even found a mound of snow that had not melted yet. We were served dinner a typical Harzer platte which included a variety of regional specialties (including schmalz) and the well-known Harzer cheese. Werner Sturm & the Zackels entertained us that evening. Photos:

May 14, we visited the Basilica Vierzehnheiligen. A resident monk greeted us and addressed our group for about 30 minutes explaining the history of this very impressive church. Then the men went in search of having an authentic Kloster Beer. Next was a stop at Hummel. We were greeted by the new president of Hummel, who is not longer part of Goebel. He is a Delaware native and addressed our group in English. He showed us a short film documenting the history of Hummel and then the best part... SHOPPING!!! The tour continued on to Peter's hometown, Steinach. We welcomed by the mayor of Steinach and the town choir sang a few songs for us. Then it was a short hike to the Waldhaus where Peter spent many hours playing his beloved button box for guests there. Peter's mother had made the potatoe salad for our group. Peter's band, the Sandlers, was in charge of cooking the authentic Thuringer sausages. It was an evening that was certainly full of stimmung and ended with entertainment by the Sandlers. for the photos of Steinach and to see the pictures of the Basilica & Hummel.

May 15, we traveled to our 3rd (and last) hotel in Landau. We saw beautiful scenery on our way to the hotel as we drove through the Pfalz. We quickly freshened up and got ready for the big show in the evening of Anni and Moni's 20th anniversary. Because this was a very full program, I will do a separate posting of this day's activities.

May 16: Because the previous night was a late party night we were able to sleep a little longer. This was a Sunday and many things are closed on Sundays, but we went to Heidelberg. Since it is a tourist town, there were many shops open and of course the Castle was open. Because I had seen the castle already twice, I chose to spend my time in town. The views down the little side streets were so quaint and I also enjoyed people watching while Elmar went to the castle. We each had our own cameras and were able to take pictures of both locations. Here are the Photos:

May 17, was our last full day of touring. We went to the Black Forest via the Schwarzwaldhochstrasse where we saw many of the typical Black Forest style homes. We stopped in Triberg and saw the largest working Cuckoo clock in the world. I ate an authentic Black Forest torte in Triberg and it was delicious. Then we were invited to a local Schwarzwald club who maintains the traditions of the Black Forest. They explained their beautiful trachts and their time honored traditions. Also, there were two local singers who entertained that afternoon. Here are the pictures:

May 18, was the last day of our tour and I will do a separate posting for this day.

I would like to thank Gisela Lewis and Peter Matthai for putting together such a fantastic bus tour. Every day was filled with many activities, sites and, of course, music. We know that there was a waiting list for this trip, but I heard that there is already a waiting list for next year's trip to the upper part of Italy (Sudtirol). However, if you are interest in next year's tour, please contact Gisela because she is contemplating having a 2nd tour if there is enough interest.

Along the Mosel

2010-06-23T20:18:00.008-05:00

On May 8, we traveled along the Mosel with our tour group (Eine Reise mit Musik) and visited Trier, the oldest city in Germany and Bernkastel, which is known for its fachwerk structures. There was a market in the center in town and gave us an opportunity to do some shopping or just enjoy some beautiful flowers.

On May 9, we traveled to Westerwald-Hachenburg and were greeted by the Blaskapelle Siershahn and the HaKiJus(Hachenburger-Kirmes-Jungs). The Hakijus were the gentlemen and handed a rose to each lady in our group. Ramona & I decided to give their president a great big smooch for such a lovely gift. We had a tour of the Westerwald brewery that brews Hachenburger Beer and as Peter said, the serve the very best beer in the world... FREI BIER !!!! The Blaskapelle Siershahn and the Hakijus entertained us all afternoon and then we were served a fabulous dinner in the beer hall.

Heino's Cafe

2010-06-05T19:04:00.015-05:00

Yes, dreams really come true, but not just in Disney World. When we first signed up to go on this year's bus tour, Elmar was very happy to see that Heino's Rathaus Cafe was on the list of stops. He was hoping that Heino would be there, but no promises were made. Many, many years ago Heino performed in Milwaukee and Elmar took pictures of me with Heino. However, it was back in the days of using film and the film was filled up before Elmar could get a picture of him and Heino. Well, as you can see from the picture on this page, Elmar got that picture with Heino.

Heino and his lovely wife, Hannelore, were very gracious and Hannelore even welcomed our group in English. We had our own room for our 50+ people that were on this tour and Heino when to each person and personnally handed them an autographed picture postcard. This gave everyone the opportunity to speak with him or have their picture taken with him. You only needed to ask and he happily posed for that picture.

We were served the famous Heino Hazelnut Torte. If you look closely at the white chocolate wafers that decorate the torte, you can see Heino's image on them. Heino had studied to be a baker before he became a singer and grew into the super star he is today.

The pictures for the first day of our fabulous 2 week trip are in a Picasa album. I am putting my pictures out here so that other members of the tour can also download some of the pictures I took on the trip and perhaps they can send me some of their pictures and I can put them out here for all of us to share. If you click on the image below, you can go directly to the Picasa album to see that first day.

This fabulous meeting with Heino happened on our first full day in Germany, but the day before we were on the go as soon as we landed and you will see those pictures in this album too. One of the very first things we did was have a tour of the Asbach distillery, a short distance from our hotel. And then a short stop at the Niederwalddenkmal. We even had a boat ride down the Rhein and a glimpse of the Loreley. In the evening Albert Dormann played for our dancing pleasure. on May 6. On May 7, when we went to Bad Muenstereifel to vist Heino's Rathaus Cafe, but in the evening we had a great dinner at the Ruedesheim Lindenwirt where we had the famous Rudesheimer coffee (it has Asbach Uralt in it & the light it & quickly put it out with whipping cream.

Also, that evening a new friend came to visit us. Andrea Ney is the president of the Axel Becker Fan Club " Amore Amore" and takes care of all the webmaster duties. We have been corresponding since last December when Elmar & I went to see Axel Becker in Cleveland for one of Gisela's Christmas shows. It was so nice to meet Andrea, face-to-face. She is a very nice lady, who has a great love for music.

If you were on this trip with us and would like one of the pictures here, just click on the right lower corner and go to the Picasa website to right click and do a save as or send me an e-mail and I can help you. Again a great big thank you goes to Gisela Lewis and Peter Matthai, who truly made this a trip to remember.

Ted Hierl passes away at age 67

2010-06-01T21:23:00.007-05:00

It is with a very heavy heart that I am announcing the death of Ted Hierl. I would like to thank Robert Deglau for letting me know of Ted's unfortunate passing. As you can read below in his obituary, Ted was a radio announcer in New Jersey with his own German Radio show for 36 years.

Ted organized annual cruises that featured famous German singing stars such as Heino, Tony Marshall, Alpentrio Tirol, Reiner Kristen, and the Schaefers to only name a few. My heart goes out to his wife, Hilde, and their family during this very difficult time in their lives.

Dear Friends:

It is with great sadness that I am informing you of the passing of our good friend Ted Hierl.

Many of you knew Ted through his activities on the German-American Heritage Council in New Jersey, where he organized and hosted the "Heritage Festival" featuring some of the greatest entertainers from Germany, who had long become his personal friends. His long friendship with Heino - for whom Ted coined the name "Die Stimme der Heimat" -, was a bridge between Ted´s old homeland and an audience of German-Americans that couldn't get enough of the beautiful evergreens.

You might have also known Ted from his German-American Radio Program that he has broadcast for over thirty years. Or from his involvement with the scholarship program for American students of German. Or for his enthusiasm towards all things German-American, from the Heritage Museum in Washington, DC to the many festivals he regularly visited in the Greater New York area.

But Ted was also a great friend and supporter of the German-American Steuben Parade. He talked about the parade on his weekly radio program, he attended the Banquet and the festivities on Fifth Avenue and Central Park for many year, always joined by his wonderful wife Hilde, who had been a pillar of support for Ted throughout their marriage of almost fifty years.

Ted will be dearly missed by the German-American community. We will miss him in the Steuben Parade and at the many events he used to attend. We will miss his voice on the radio and the valued insight and opinion he gave.

Below, please find Ted´s obituary and information on his wake and funeral service.

Please keep Ted, his wife Hilde and the entire family in your thoughts.

Yardville - Detlef "Ted" A. Hierl, 67, died peacefully on Sunday, May 30, 2010 in Trenton, NJ, surrounded by his loving family after a courageous 4 year battle with cancer. Born December 7, 1942 in Bonn, Germany, he was the youngest son of the late Willibald & Christine Hierl (Sauder).
After Ted completed his schooling and apprenticeship near his hometown Bruehl, he received his Master Certificate for machine building. A few years after immigrating to the USA with his wife and daughter in 1962, a son was born, and the family became US citizens.

Ted's first job was working for Crossley Machine Company in Trenton. In 1966 he became the plant manager for Coronis Building Systems in Columbus, NJ till his retirement in 2008. Ted was also a partner in the "Take it Easy Bar & Liquor Store" in Yardville, NJ for several years.

In addition to his professional life, Ted was especially active in the German-American Community in the Delaware Valley. He became the voice of German radio for 36 years performing the two-hour live show each and every Sunday morning. Ted started broadcasting over WTTM Radio, Trenton, NJ in 1974. During his Christmas Eve specials former Trenton Mayor Arthur Holland usually visited the studio. In 1997 the German Radio program moved to WNWR- AM 1540, Philadelphia, PA and hopefully will continue with the help from his family. From 1982 till 2000 he also broadcast a 2nd German-American Radio program over WJDM, Elizabeth, NJ.

Another event dear to his heart was the German Heritage Festival at the Garden State Arts Center, now known as the PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel, NJ. After attending the 1st festival in 1974, Ted decided to become involved in the event and the German Heritage Council of NJ. At first as Master of Ceremonies, additionally Program Chairman in 1977. He became Program & Vice Chairman in 1979 and was the General & Program Chairman from 1985 to the present, with the last German Heritage Festival being held in 2007 featuring Heino. Over the years, Ted was able to bring some of the best German speaking entertainers to NJ. With the help of the dedicated committee, the festival was well known throughout the Tri-State area and beyond. Attendances up to 15,000 people generated proceeds used to award numerous scholarships each year and support the Garden State Cultural Center Fund in their fundraising.

Over the years Ted also coordinated many various German shows in the tri-state area, mostly during Advent, and cruises with well known German speaking entertainers from overseas. In earlier years he coordinated shows for Trenton Heritage Days, Trenton Parks and the State Fair, sometimes broadcasting live from events. Besides supporting the German-American Steuben Parade in New York and Philadelphia, he was also involved for a few years in the German Alps Festival at Hunter Mountain in NY and Action Park in NJ.

Ted was appointed by NJ Governors Kean, Florio, Whitman and McGreevey as a member of the Ethnic Advisory Council. In 1990 he represented NJ Gov. Jim Florio at the reunification of Germany in Berlin. Through his involvement, Ted met numerous Presidents and Dignitaries, including President Clinton, German Chancellor Kohl, and Dr. Henry Kissinger.

In recognition of all his efforts to uphold the German traditions in the USA and endeavors to sustain the friendship between the two Countries, Ted was honored with numerous awards. In 1989, he received "The Federal Republic of Germany Friendship Award" presented by the Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany. In 2001, Ted was honored by the United German-American Committee of the USA, Inc., at the Council of 1000 Banquet as the "Distinguished German-American of the Year". German President Richard von Weizaecker awarded Ted with the most prestigious recognition, "Das Bundesverdienstkreuz 1. Klasse - Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany, 1st Class" on September 10, 1991.

With his involvements, Ted was made Life Time or Honorary member of many of the German-American Clubs in the Tri State Area. He was also a Free and Accepted Mason of the Herman-Humbold Lodge, No.125, the oldest German speaking lodge.

Ted had a great passion for traveling, often visiting family in Germany, cruising to Alaska, Hawaii, the Panama Canal and the Caribbean. His greatest joy was visiting Florida with his grandchildren. All through his life Ted was an avid soccer fan. His other hobbies included bowling, visiting the Metropolitan Opera and swimming.

He is survived by his wife of almost 50 years, Mathilde S. Hierl (Erkelenz),
daughter Elke C. Born and husband Christian,
son Ralph J. Hierl and wife Elizabeth,
proud grandfather of Werner Born, Eric & Ryan Hierl, who he enjoyed spending time with, and son-in-law of Anna Jackson.
The youngest of 8 children, he was predeceased by sisters Marie, Hanna and Ernie and brothers Willibald and Heinz.
He is also survived by sister Malie Palmersheim, brother Franz Josef Hierl,
several in-laws, many nieces and nephews, including his Godson Horst Hierl, all in Germany.

Instead of flowers, donations should be made in Ted's memory to the German Heritage Council of NJ for scholarships, the German-American Heritage Foundation of the USA for the museum in Washington, DC or the Herman-Humboldt Lodge No.125 all in care of PO Box 9855, Trenton, NJ 08650.

Visitation hours are from 2-4pm and 6-9pm on Thursday, June 3, 2010 at Knott Colonial Funeral Home, 2946 South Broad Street, Hamilton, NJ. The funeral mass will be held at 11am on Friday, June 4 at St. Raphael's Church, 3500 South Broad Street, Hamilton NJ, followed by interment at the Princeton Memorial Park, Robbinsville, NJ.

If you would like to sign the Guestbook at Knott Colonial Funeral Home... CLICK HERE.

Bock Beer Fest - Pictures

2010-04-29T20:01:00.006-05:00

Well, Bock Beer Fest was lots of fun again this year. Of course there was plenty of beer, but there was some great food as well. Besides the usual Bock Wurst & Bratwurst, if you were lucky you could get Russ' attention and get a Landjaeger wurst from him on his fancy wurst pole that he carries proudly every year.

Just as our friend Pete promised, the Klements racing sausages made an appearance. Or perhaps I should say the dancing sausages. The people crowded around them to get a quick photo or just a fun time with them dancing around the dance floor. However, I did not see them having a beer, although I am sure they were very thirsty after all that dancing. I think I even saw some of the DCS dancers giving the sausages a spin.

For several years now, the Danube Cultural Society (DCS) has entertained the crowd with their ethnic dancing. It might be a peppy polka or a beautiful waltz. With the geat popularity of Dancing with the Stars the last few years, dancing has gotten a lot of attention at these gatherings. The DCS were happy to see so many appreciative viewers and hope to get some help with their fund raising efforts to go to dance in Disney World later this year.

As it is custom every year, there were the beer drinking contests during the evening. Somehow they never had a lack of contestants. Well, of course the fact that the beer was free might have something to do with it. However, the Milwaukee Spielmannszug does a great job promoting that people drink responsibly and offer a designated driver program for those folks like me that do not drink (beer). I simply drank soda that evening and it was a enjoyable evening for me as well.

If you missed it this year, I am sure it will be held again next year. This event seems to be growing every year.

D'Lustign'n Wendelstoana Stiftungsfest

2010-03-01T07:46:00.004-06:00

Date & Time
March 13, 2010 - See times and description below.

Ticket Info
Ticket Cost: $8.00 in advance, $10 at the door, $5 students
Call: Ruth Unora 414-462-9147

Description

Join the B.G.T.V. D'lustig'n Wendelstoana at their annual Stiftungfest, Dahoam ist Dahoam. There will be food available for purchase, such as sandwiches, cake & coffee and of course plenty of beverages.

5:30 pm - the festivities begin with traditional Bavarian music provided by Familiemusik Mueller-Hacker. The group includes the popular local button box expert, Peggy Mueller and Hacker family members, including the leader of the Blaskapelle Milwaukee, Andy Hacker. Andy and the Blaskapelle Milwaukee are looking forward to hosting the first Fruehlingsfest on May 22. They are planning a fabulous menu and of course, great entertainment. If you would like to support this event take a look at the details by clicking HERE. This is one of the newest groups in Milwaukee and let's show our interest in maintaining the old traditions through these fine young musicians.

Program: 6:30 pm, The program will feature various members of the club entertaining you with some beautiful traditional Bavarian songs, traditional Schuhplatting, and maybe even some chopping of wood.

Music: 8:00 pm
Johnny Hoffmann & his Herzbuben will provide some of your favorite tunes for your dancing pleasure. It promises to be a great evening.

Please check out their webpage: Wendelstoana

Location
Bavarian Inn (Map)
700 W. Lexington Blvd., Glendale, WI

Spielmannszug - Lumpenhball (Hobo Dance)

2010-02-24T16:30:00.001-06:00

Date & Time
February 27, 2010 - Time: Doors open at 6 p.m.

Ticket Info
Ticket Cost: $5.00
Call: (details forthcoming)

Description
The Spielmannszug Milwaukee presents their annual Lumpenball or Hobo Dance. This is a fun dance that depicts that you spent all your money during the Mardi Gras season and now you are so poor you can only dress in rags. So you do not have to dress up for this one, in fact, the worse your clothes are the better. There will be prizes for the WORST dressed person.

There will be food available for purchase. As mentioned below, Robert Deglau, host of Continental Showcase will be playing some geat German Music for your listening & dancing pleasure. This is the first time this dance will have a DJ, so come on out to see something new.

Music: Continental Showcase's Robert Deglau will be the DJ

For more info, go to the Milwaukee Spielmannszug website. http://www.spielmannszug.org/

Croatian Sacred Heart Church Hall (Map)
917 N. 49th St. (just 2 blocks north of Wisconsin Ave),
Milwaukee, WI 53208

2010 Alaska Cruise with Alpentrio Tirol

2010-02-07T11:32:00.015-06:00

Yes, your favorite German Radio DJ, Ted Hierl, is again organizing a fabulous cruise. This year it will go to Alaska, the inside passage. As of this writing, there is still room on this cruise. But don't delay, these cruises fill up quickly.

It starts on August 20 and for 10 days you will be on board the Sea Princess. It leaves from San Francisco and you might want to add a few days to your vacation so you can explore San Francisco, like seeing the famous Gold Gate Bridge.

Ports that you will see on this cruise are: Victoria BC, Juneau, Skagway, Tracy Arm Fjord, and Ketchikan. All for a cost of only $1,399. See the flyer on the page for more details or call Clark Travel toll free at 888-434-6699 or Ted Hierl directly at 609-585-6757.

This cruise will feature my favorite "boy band", the Alpentrio Tirol. They will entertain this group exclusively and you are sure to see the entertainers on board throughout the cruise. Also, as in the past, the popular Elstertaler Musikanten will be featured on two party nights, again only for your group. We have been on some of these cruises organized by Ted Hierl and everyone has a great time, you make new friends from the US and even from Germany. Also, the party nights are really great with big names from Europe like the Alpentrio Tirol.

Don't miss this fabulous cruise.

Spielmannszug - Mardi Gras Milwaukee Style

2010-01-16T17:52:00.001-06:00

Date & Time
January 23, 2010 - Time: Doors open at 6:00 pm

Ticket Info
Ticket Cost: $5.00 at the door

Description
Celebrate with the Spielmannszug Milwaukee a brand new event: Mardi Gras Milwaukee Style. This event promises many surprises so don't miss it. Last year was so much fun, that they decided to have this event again this year, so if you missed it last year come out this year.

There will be food available for purchase.
(prepared by the DCS)

Music: Austrian Express

For more info, go to the Milwaukee Spielmannszug website. http://www.spielmannszug.org/

Location
Croatian Sacred Heart Church Hall (Map)
917 N. 49th St. (just 2 blocks north of Wisconsin Ave),
Milwaukee, WI 53208

Thank you Andrea Ney

2009-12-31T18:17:00.008-06:00

I want to sincerely thank Andrea Ney. She is the fanclub leader of the Axel Becker fanclub "Amore Amore" in Germany. She was kind enough to publish my Axel Becker Cleveland performance report on her fanclub website and all the pictures. She published it in "English" just the way I wrote it, but she also translated the whole piece into German. She did a fantastic job. Andrea, thank you so much!!!

Take a look at her website. She is a very talented writer and has a lot of pictures at her site if your German is a little rusty. She features concert reports that are very detailed and interesting to read. Stay in touch with what this popular German entertainer is doing. Axel received standing ovations everywhere he

appeared in the US and Canada. If you have the opportunity to see this singer, don't miss it.

On December 26, Axel Becker was back in

Germany and performing in Bad Fussing for a Christmas concert. Andrea was there and took pictures that are great which include the Chicago favorite, Romy, and here is also a link to her concert report. CLICK. If you go to my Links page, I have added Andrea's link under the heading "Friends of the Stimmung Stunde" ... check it out.

Frohe Weihnachten from Oberallgaeu Musikanten

2009-12-22T21:10:00.000-06:00

I received an e-mail from Michl of the Oberallgaeu Musikanten. This band joined forces with the Widderstein Buaba this summer when they appeared at German Fest.

Michl was very happy to report that they will again be at the 2010 German Fest in Milwaukee. I am sure all their fans will be happy to welcome them back. They have been at German Fest twice and their next appearance will make it three.

Michl would like to send wishes to Milwaukee for a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year.

Christmas Show in Cleveland was a hit

2009-12-13T12:58:00.008-06:00

On Friday we traveled for 7 hours to see this fabulous German Christmas show. Gisela Lewis of New Jersey organizes a German Christmas tour every year. The closest it came to Milwaukee was Cleveland. So I made my reservations months ago and finally the day came to travel to Cleveland. It was held at the Donauschwaben house in Cleveland and it was nice to see some old friends again. There were about 350 people in attendance. If you look at my other post on this website you can see a complete list of where they will and have appeared. I am so happy we were able to attend this show. It was one of the best I have every seen.

The headliner was Axel Becker, who is a big star in Germany. It is amazing that Gisela was able to land a big name like Axel, but even more amazing was his voice. Axel Becker has the most beautiful voice I have ever heard and is also quite the showman. He had the crowd in the palm of his hand and at the end of each set, he received a standing Ovation. Although, Axel was clearly the star, he was gracious to his fellow performers and brought them up on stage to share the thunderous applause.

The beautiful Styrina was also on the bill. Many people in Milwaukee remember this charming young girl from Austria with her long flowing blonde hair. This little "firecracker" really brought energy and excitement to the floor. She had traditional songs in her first set and changed into a glittery red dress for the 2nd half that made her shine like a red diamond. Styrina told me later she really enjoyed her time in Milwaukee and would love to return again.

Filling out the program was a band from Austria, Kristall. They had only 3 members of their band with them. We saw them in May in Austria when we were on the bus tour with Gisela Lewis. They were a lot of fun and some very talented musicians. The trumpeter, Werner George, was very talented and even sang a few songs.

This was clearly a top notch Christmas Show. Now I really feel in the festive mood. If you still have an opportunity to see this show while they are still in the states, please do not miss it. I have a slideshow below with pictures I took that evening. If you would like one of the pictures, just click on view all images and it will take you to the slide website. Click gallery view, then find the photo you want and right click to download. It's free.

Claudia & Alexx are headliners at 2009 Christmas Show in Milwaukee

2009-12-08T19:00:00.010-06:00

On December 4th, Robert Deglau, host of the Continental Showcase German radio show, sponsored the 2009 German Christmas Show coordinated by Chicago radio host, Armin Homann. This year the headliners were Claudia & Alexx. They are 2 young and energetic entertainers that are often compared to Marianne & Michael. Perhaps because Claudia is from Niederbeyern & Alexx is from the Steiermark in Austria. Claudia has the more dominant voice and what a voice it is. She is a very talented singer and always has a quick smile for the camera. Alexx's voice blends beautifully with Claudia and was more the moderator of the two.

This was their first visit to the US and they were busy with performances as soon as they landed. Armin Homann had them lined up at many locations to sold out crowds. Although Claudia & Alexx are young and relative newcomers to the

Volksmusik scene, they have had several successful attempts at the Grand Prix der Volksmusik. In 2006 they placed 3rd at the finale with their song, Siebsehn Sommer and last year they were again in the finale with Mama Danke. I found them both very charming and really enjoyed the evening.

Also performing that night was Chris Holzer. I was not familiar with this singer, however, was pleasantly surprised at the quality of his voice. He has a strong voice

and it was very evident when he sang Ava Maria. He chose a nice group of familiar songs and encouraged people to sing along. As usual the first half of the show featured the songs that the performers are best known for and the second half was strickly Christmas music. Often people joined right in and got us all ready for the holidays ahead. As is tradition the last song was everyone's favorite, Silent Night.

After the show, the duo, M & M, played some great dance music for the people who had enough of sitting in one spot so long and welcomed the chance to dance the rest of the evening. The Bavarian Inn was a great place to hold this event and hope Robert will be able to host other German artists there in the future. If we want to continue to bring talent from Germany to Milwaukee to entertain us, we need to attend these events when they are available. It is really nice to see these entertainers up close and live. I encourage you to attend the next time there is a show in town and show support to Robert who works hard to get these artists to Milwaukee.

Christkindl Market in Chicago

2009-12-02T15:26:00.001-06:00

Date & Time
November 25 - December 24, 2008

Ticket Info

Admission is Free

Hours -- Sundays - Thursdays: 11 am - 8 pm

Fridays & Saturdays: 11 am - 9 pm

Description
The 14th Annual Christkindlmarket in Chicago starts the day before Thanksgiving Day, November 25, through Christmas Eve, December 24. For more details go to their website: http://www.christkindlmarket.com/ or call their information line: 312-494-2175.

There will be 42 vendors this year from both the US and direct from Germany. There will be beautiful linens, Christmas ornaments, wood carvings, and lots of good things to eat. Here are just a few of the vendors that will be there: Bethlehem Nativity Products, Frank's Bavarian Gift Shop, Bayrische Glasstrasse, Black Forest Cuckoo Clocks, Lenk & Sohn, Der Lindwurm, and, of course, Kathe Wohlfahrt. I cannot wait for the hot Gluhwein that they serve there.

Also, a group from Milwaukee will be entertaining the crowd on December 19. Again, for a complete list, please visit their website.

Location

Daley Plaza (across from what used to be Marshall Fields) - Washington, Clark & Dearborn Streets

Click on the map to the left to get a closer look.

New Website for Maria Olliges

2009-11-15T07:29:00.004-06:00

Those of you that are past listeners of the Stimmung Stunde remember that Maria Olliges was our Talent Coordinator in Germany who arranged all those fabulous interviews with German singing stars. For the past few years she has organized several music concerts and now she has her own webpage, Schlagertreff.

Although they all take place in Germany, you may be interested in the photos she has posted of the stars such as Vincent & Fernando, Marc Pircher and Armin Stoeckl, who was here in Milwaukee in 2008 for a Christmas tour.

Also, if you plan to go to Germany next year in September, check out where her next concert will be playing. You will not be disappointed.

Fabulous Christmas Show coming to Milwaukee

2009-11-13T15:18:00.007-06:00

Robert Deglau of the Continental Showcase radio show has put together a fabulous Christmas Show. Robert enjoys bringing German entertainers here to Milwaukee and hopes all the listeners of his radio show will be there.

It will feature the well-known duo, Claudia & Alexx. These rising young stars have already had several accomplishments in their short carreer. In 2006, they competed (representing Germany) in the Grand Prix der Volksmusik, singing Siebzehn Sommer.

If you click on the link below, you can see/hear it for yourself on YouTube.

In 2008 they won the prestigious Herbert Roth Preis and went on to make numerous appearances on television & various tours. This year, they again competed in the Grand Prix der Volksmusik with the song, Mama danke. If you would like to see/hear their performance, go to the Continental Showcase webpage; Robert has a YouTube link at his website.

Claudia & Alexx are very popular in Germany and it is really great that we will be able to see them LIVE here in Milwaukee. Please remember that if you want to continue to get German entertainment to Milwaukee, you can show your support by comming to this event. Click on the link to Claudia & Alexx's homepage and sign their Guestbook. Let them know you are looking forward to seeing them here in Milwaukee.

Also, Chris Holzer, will be enteretaining you that night. Singing old favorite German Christmas songs and some of his popular recordings like, Wenn du ein Engel bist. The M & M Musikanten will again be playing for your dancing pleasure after the show (just like they did last year).

This is a great opportunity to talk to some German singing stars right here in our city. You do not have to travel to Germany to see some fabulous entertainers. I hope to see you all there.

Date: December 4, 2009 (Friday)

Time: 6:30 pm

Tickets: $18.00 - call Peter Saemann,
.262-252-3431

Bavarian Inn & Heidelberg Park (Map)
700 W. Lexington Blvd, Glendale, WI 53127

If you want to continue to have German entertainment here in Milwaukee, be sure to come and support this evening.

20th Anniversary - Fall of the Berlin Wall

2009-11-09T08:10:00.003-06:00

It has been 20 years since the fall of the Berlin Wall. This was a historical event, but it meant so much more to the German-American community. Here are some links to some related stories:

http://www.dw-world.de/dw/article/0,,3982751,00.html

http://www.berlin-wall.com/

http://www.sefermpost.com/sefermpost/2009/11/berlin-wall-merkel-germans-celebrate-20th-anniversary.html

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/28677157/

http://gogermany.about.com/od/historyandculture/tp/berlin_wall_fall.htm

Weihnachts Show tour presented by Gisela Lewis

2009-11-01T20:30:00.003-06:00

Gisela Lewis is again presenting a fabulous Weihnachts Show tour in the USA and Canada. It starts on November 27 and continues through December 19. Gisela has brought entertainers from Germany for many years and this year's show looks like it will again be a stand out. Check out the list below to see if there is a show near you. It is bound to be an evening to remember.

The stars for this year's tour are: Axel Becker, Styrina, and the Kristall band.

We saw Axel Becker perform live in Germany back in 2006. He puts on a great show and is often on Volksmusik TV shows in Germany. He has many hits through the years and he is looking forward to his first trip to the US. When I listen to his voice the word "velvet" pops up in my head. Take a look/listen yourself and click on this link to YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EBCK5qMzXa4

Styrina was at this year's German Fest in Milwaukee and this beautiful girl with her long flowing blond hair aquired many new fans here in Milwaukee. I ofen hear people describe her performance as a little firecracker. Take a look at this YouTube link to see Styrina in action: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0qAHHuNmDTY. We also saw Styrina in Austria when we went with Gisela Lewis and Peter Matthai (leader of the Sandler band) on the Bus Tour they organized in May this year. By the way, they have another tour planned for May 2010 and I will be bringing details of that trip soon. On that same Bus Tour, we saw the band Kristall perform and you will not be disappointed with this talented band. Here is a link to YouTube to see Kristall perform: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RCjzT3_CzlI. They made great music and their humorous antics will have you laughing out loud.

Click on the poster to the right to enlarge the image. It gives details of this fabulous tour coming to the US.

Nov 27 - Deutscher Club of Clark, call 908-756-1783

Nov 28 - Delaware Saengerbund, Newark, DE, call 302-366-4710

Nov 29 - Franklin Square, NY, call 516-333-4710

Dec 1 - German-American Soc of Trenton, Yardville, NJ, call 609-585-5593

Dec 2 - Evergreen Country Club, Reading, call 610-944-7501 & 484-797-3528

Dec 3 - Germania Park, Dover NJ, call 732-557-0670

Dec 4 - Cannstatter Volksfest Verein, Philadelphia, PA, call 215-332-0121

Dec 5 - Schulverein Walpole, Boston, MA, call 508-586-0982 & 781-320-9940

Dec 6 - Schutzenpark, North Bergen, NJ, call 917-680-3942 & 718-821-7337

Dec 8 - Carpathia Club, Sterling Heights, Michigan, call 586-781-6734 or 586-822-2366

Dec 9 - Deutscher Sportverein, Ft. Wayne, IN, call 660-338-1234 & 260-248-2282

Dec 10 - Donauschwaben Society of Cincinnati, OH, call 513-451-6452

Dec 11 - German-American Culture Center Olmsted Falls, Cleveland, OH, call 440-235-2647

Dec 12 - German Family Society of Akron, Ohio, call 330-923-7947 or 330-336-7127

Dec 13 - Schwabenverein, Toledo/Oregon, OH, call 419-536-9942 or 419-691-4116

Dec 14 - Club Lorelei, Hamburg, NY, call 716-875-1064 or 716-633-1044

Dec 15 - Club Rhein-Danube, Leamington, ON, Canada, call 519-326-3740 & 519-326-1779

Dec 16 - Concordia Club Kitchener, ON, Canada, call 519-745-5617

Dec 17 - Association of Danube Swabians, Scarborough Toronto, ON Canada, call 416-290-6186 or 416-282-4021

Dec 19 - Blobs Park, Baltimore, MD, call 410-799-7130

Spielmannszug - Crowning

2009-10-31T01:00:00.000-05:00

Date & Time
November 7, 2009 - Time: Doors open at 6 pm, Crowning festivities begin at 7 pm

Ticket Info
Ticket Cost: $12 in advance and $15 at the door
Call: 414-476-2806
Be sure to call for advance tickets and save $3.00. This is a popular event so get your tickets soon.

Description

Who will be the next royal couple presiding over the 2009 – 2010 Karnival season. Come to this annual event and join in the fun.

Music : Johnny Hoffmann & his Herzbuben

For more info, go to the Milwaukee Spielmannszug website. http://www.spielmannszug.org/

Location
Mt. Mary College (Map)
2900 N Menomonee River Parkway, Milwaukee, WI 53222-4597

Breast Cancer Awareness fundraiser at Boxhorn Gun Club

2009-10-04T18:14:00.003-05:00

Today was a big fundraiser with a big "shoot" at the Boxhorn Gun Club in Muskego. They kicked off Breast Cancer Awareness month with a competitive shoot at the club. They raised money for this great cause, and had fabulous prizes as well. They raised more that $10,000 and want to thank everyone that particiated today. Just click here to see the details.

The Boxhorn Gun Club is located in Muskego at
S90 W13960 Boxhorn Drive, Muskego, Wisconsin 53150

Although the fundraiser is over, you may want to get more info about trap shooting at Boshrn so just call Rick at 414-425-0337 and tell him you want to sign up.

If you need more info, you can also send him an e-mail at: Rick@Boxhorngunclub.com

My husband, Elmar, shoots trap at this Gun Club, but Breast Cancer Awareness holds a new meaning in our family since Hans & Mary Buchert's daughter, Katie, battled Breast Cancer. At last report, Katie is doing better and we certainly hope that she has conquered this awful disease by making a full recovery. She has been spending time this month as a spokesperson and you may have heard her on the radio.

Uwe Erhardt & Angela Wiedl

2009-09-26T16:20:00.003-05:00

The German-American community in Milwaukee was very happy in 2005 when the Schaefers made an appearance at Milwaukee's German Fest's 25th anniversary. Also, the Schaefers were the star performers on Ted Hierl's cruise in 2007, that some of you may have been on.

Last week on September 19 the Musikantenstadl spoke the Uwe Erhardt, the leader of the Schaefers, regarding his new romance. Uwe and Angela Wiedl are now a couple and if you click on the video below you can see the duet they performed together for the first time. Angela's hit, Herzklopfen.

Bavarian Inn Oktoberfest - September 25, 26, & 27

2009-09-21T01:00:00.002-05:00

It's the last week of Oktoberfest at Bavarian Inn. It runs Friday, Saturday & Sunday and still serving fabulous food like: Chicken, Spanferkel, Bratwurst, Rollbraten & homemade desserts.

Friday: 5 pm - 12 Midnight
Satuday: 4 pm - 12 Midnight
Sunday: 12 Noon - 7 pm

Here's the entertainment line up this weekend.

Friday, September 25 – 6:30 pm, Austrian Express
Saturday, September 26 – 4:00 pm, Alte Kameraden &, 8:30 pm, Johnny Hoffmann
Sunday, September 27 - 12 noon, Familienmusi Mueller - Hacker & 2:00 pm, Music Venders

Location
Bavarian Inn & Heidelberg Park (Map)
700 W. Lexington Blvd, Glendale, WI 53127

Palacsinta Breakfast at Sacred Heart Church

2009-09-19T09:43:00.001-05:00

Date & Time
September 20, 2009 - 8:30 am - 12:20 pm

Ticket Info

No advance tickets - Pay at the door

Cost depends on the menu item you choose

Description

If you love Palacsinta, this is the event for you. What are Palacsinta? They are the Croatian version of a crepe and they are delicious. Palacsinta is filled with either jam or cheese and there are other breakfast items available such as pork links and beverages. Here'a a sample of what you get.

Palcsinta -- Cheese: $1.50, Jam: $1.25, or Plain: $1.25

Sausage (3 links per order): $1.25

Zgance: $1.25

Sauerkraut: $1.25

Beverages (Coffee, Milk or Orange Juice): $0.75

Location
Sacred Heart Church (Map)
917 N. 49th St. (1/2 block north of Wells St.). Milwauikee, WI 53208

D'Oberlandler - Kirchweih Fest (81st)

2009-09-16T01:00:00.002-05:00

Date & Time
October 17, 2009 - See times in description below

Ticket Info
Ticket Cost: $8.00 in advance, $10 at the door
$4.00 for students & under age 10 - FREE
Call: 262-250-9409

Description
This annual event is a don't miss! D'Oberlandler always put on a fabulous program, displaying their love of old traditions, hearty food and lively music.

Music: 5:00 pm – 6:30 pm
Blaskapelle Milwaukee will entertain you with their traditional music. And of course, Milwaukee's favorite, Peggy Mueller, will also be there.

Program: 6:30 pm – Program begins featuring D’Oberlandler dance group performing traditional Bavarian dances from their heimat.

Music: 8:00 pm – Johnny Hoffmann and the Herzbuben

Please check out their webpage: D’Oberlandler

Bavarian Inn & Heidelberg Park (Map)
700 W. Lexington Blvd, Glendale, WI 53217

Former Miss Wisconsin Tracy Gest gets married

2009-09-14T05:16:00.001-05:00

On Saturday, September 12, Tracy Gest & Zach Wusterbarth were married. Tracy Gest was a frequent guest on the Stimmung Stunde and Miss Wisconsin 2005. Tracy went to Las Vegas representing Wisconsin at the Miss America contest.

Tracy went on to carry many other titles and we are wondering if we start seeing her in the "Mrs" contest after this.

Tim was invited to the wedding and saw many old friends from the Stimmung Stunde days. Take a look at the Pageant Cast website to read more.

Yipee !!!! Vincent & Fernando won the Grand Prix 2009

2009-08-30T07:37:00.003-05:00

I jumped out of my chair last night when they announced that Vincent & Fernando won the Grand Prix der Volksmusik 2009, with their song Der Engel von Marienhof. As we were watching the show, Ted Hierl, from New Jersey called to see if I had heard that Vincent & Fernando had won (he knows I am a big fan). We also talked about the upcoming cruise he has organized with the Orig. Naabtal Duo (see sidebar on left). I am so glad that he called to tell me. We continued watching the show and as the voting results started... Vincent & Fernando, 12 pts; Vincent & Fernando, 12 pts; BOOM our power went OUT !!! We sat there in the dark for about a minute before it started up again. If Ted had not called, I would have been a basket case. Started up the computer again and found that Vincent & Fernando had a perfect score of 36. This time there was no doubt who the winner was. Last year there were two tie breakers and they landed in 2nd place for the 3rd year in a row.

Second place, representing Germany, went to the Bergkameraden & Oswald Sattler -- Ich traume von der Heimat
Third, from Austria was: Pfarrer Franz Brei & Signum -- Das Leben...

If you want the full list and in what order they fell, go to http://www.gpvolksmusik.at/. We congratulate all the artists that took part in the competition. It is an honor for anyone that participates in this event and I am looking forward to next year's competition.

Sunday at German Fest in Milwaukee

2009-07-31T09:12:00.012-05:00

During most of the fest I have been able to post pictures the following day, but the Sunday post has taken a longer than usual time for me to get these out there. Sunday was mostly cultural day for me and I took mostly pictures of the cultural display. There were craftsmen who had interesting demonstrations, the porsche display, train village, and even a Tribant was on display this year. While going through the exhibits I saw this year's German-American Societies queen, Courtney, and her friend Eric (who is a German Fest director), they are pictured to the left.

I was selling CD's for the Widdersteiner (Oberallgau Musikanten) most of the weekend, so I did not get to see everything/everyone that German Fest had to offer. I am especially sad that I did not get a picture of my dear friend Peggy Mueller and her husband Hansi. I have no pictures this year of the Austrian Express or Chikeria. They always seemed to be on stage while I was selling CD's. But there is always next year. Next year will be the 30th anniversary of German Fest and I have high hopes that the entertainment line-up will be spectacular.

The Widdersteiner (Oberallgau Musikanten) were a very fun group and it was nice to get to see and hear them again. They were at German Fest two years ago and again delivered a great show. Many fest visitors really enjoyed their antics on stage and were very supportive of German music by buying CDs. I found out that Seppi Kleber owns a hotel back home and if you are ever in Oberstdorf near the Austrian/German border be sure to stop in the Hotel Traub.

Saturday at German Fest

2009-07-26T09:44:00.010-05:00

Saturday at German Fest was an action packed day. Saturday is parade day and it was great to just stand under a shade tree with the lake breeze, watching all the groups parade past. I checked out some of the shops. And on the left you can see that Willy of the Sandlers was busy with his beautiful mouthblown glassware. He truly has some one of a kind items. He and his wife, Regina, took time with each customer and proud to explain how these lovely items are made.

I went to see an old favorite, the Johnny Hoffmann band. I was happy to see that Rick's (he plays the sax) daughter did a few songs with Kevin, their lead singer. This band has been around a long time, but always brings new life to the band. Each musical selection was perfect, these guys just don't make mistakes. They will always be one of my favorites and it just would not be German Fest without them!!!

We started our day with our traditional Saturday morning visit to the Konditorei and had some lovely tortes. The best part is when old friends come by and we can catch up on what has been happening in their lives since we last saw them.

Take a look at the slide show below. One of my favorites is the guys with the "prost" sunglasses.

Friday at German Fest in Milwaukee

2009-07-25T09:35:00.008-05:00

Friday at German Fest was jam packed with fun. The visitors were very enthusiastic about Styrina's show. Styrina has beautiful long blond hair as you can see from the photo to the left. So I asked her to take a spin.

Styrina has a great mix of both Volksmusik and Schlager. She had people "schunkling" (which I call the German Arobics) and she came off stage, got up on the bleachers in the audience and interacted with the people while she was singing. This is her first time to the Milwaukee German Fest and there are many people who are hoping this will not be her last.

The Sandlers played most of the afternoon and enjoyed singing to the crowd that kept growing. As people walked by and heard the great sound that these muscians produced, they were just drawn in like a magnet. There were a lot of people who had become fans from years before and were very happy to see that the Sandlers had a new CD to offer. Willy, the lead singer, led a polanaise and got everyone on their feet. Willy is also an accomplished glass blower and if you had time to explore the shops you may have seen some the detailed glass items he & his wife had for sale there.

If you are looking to download some of the pictures in the Slide show below, just click on View all Images. It will take you to the slide show website and you just need to right click and download the picture you like. And... it's all FREE.

Thursday at German Fest

2009-07-24T07:35:00.014-05:00

Milwaukee's German Fest opened last night and the crowd was treated to FREE admission and fabulous entertainment. The Widderstein Buaba/Oberallgau Musikanten are a fantastic show band and had everyone hopping to the newest music in the Volksmusik scene and a lot of old favorites as well. Hans (Big John) is pictured to the left; he really gets into his music. The program said Widderstein Buaba, but this is a combination of 2 bands: Widdersteiner and Oberallgau Musikanten for when they play big festivals. They seemed to get their own groupees before long and if you would like to sign the Widderstiner guestbook or/and Oberallgau Musikanten guestbook to let them know how much you enjoyed their performance click on the guestbook links above.

Styrina from Austria is the headliner at German Fest this year and had the crowd (especially the men) mesmerized. Her long beautiful blond hair had trouble keeping up with her as she flew around the stage. We saw this talented singer during our Bus Tour in Austria and there is a short video of Styrina in the side bar on the left. Styrina is a beautiful young woman, but she has been on stage for many years. A friend of mine brought a tape of her from when she was only 12 years old.

The Sandlers, who I often refer to as the "red shirts", had the people on their feet and dancing. Peter, who is the leader of the band, was also our tour guide when we were on our bus tour in May. He was a great tour guide, but he is a fantastic muscian. He brought 4 talented muscians with him and we are so grateful that they were at our house entertaining our guests. We are proud to say that they have also become very good friends of ours.

Pre-German Fest Party

2009-07-23T13:28:00.010-05:00

We had a great time giving a Welcome party for the Sandlers, last night. They will be playing German Fest all weekend. When Peter generously offered his band to play, I quickly said YES! It was a great feeling to have the Sandlers play in "my" backyard. Click Here to go to a link where our son, Tim, took a few pictures and even some short videos.

We were also treated to Milwaukee' s own Peggy Mueller, who played a few songs with Peter and, of course, Hansi on the spoons. There were even some sing-a-long moments. These musicians gave everyone a glimpse of the fine music that there will be a German Fest this weekend. Styrina was also there and she enjoyed getting to know some of our guests better before the big weekend.

Thanks to all our friends who brought delicious food and drinks and for helping us give this party for these talented muscians. It is a party that we will always remember. The evening got us all in the mood to have a good time at German Fest this weekend that will be filled with good music (like we heard this night), good food and a wonderful time spent with old friends. Later in the evening the Widdersteiner (Oberallgau Musikanten) band arrived and we all had the opportunity to get to know them better.

Reise mit Musik - over 70 musicians

2009-07-19T18:43:00.032-05:00

Our beautiful tour through Austria/Germany in May featured music - music - music. Peter our tour guide and the leader of Die Sandler, said that during our 2 week tour we saw over 70 live muscians/entertainers. There was NEVER a day without music. One of our first performers was the beautiful Vivan Lindt. Her parents own the Gasthaus Oeller near Passau and she entertained us along with the Gletscherfetzer band.

One evening Hans Fuchs and his Oberkrainer Show entertained us after dinner at the Donauschlinge Hotel. We were lucky enough to be entertained by a talented musician at the Donauschlinge Hotel ever night by the name of Willy Brandstetter. When we went to Linz there was a fest going on and we saw several talented muscians, but later we went for a boat ride on the Donau and had the whole boat to ourselves. The Linzer Stadmusikanten played while our group went up and down the Donau.

We also went into the Czech Republic and during our lunch a Country music band played music Czech style. Our visit to the Slavko Avsenik museuem was topped off with a traditional meal in the fest hall with authentic Oberkrainer musik.

One of our favorites was the evening when we were entertained by 3 great entertainers. We were in Millstadt at the Hotel Alexanderhof and none of us suspected that we were in for such a treat that night. Styrina started the program and when peter told us she was a "firecracker" he was not overstating it. Styrina is scheduled to be at German Fest here in Milwaukee this weekend and if you are going, be sure to catch her show. The band Kristall was also featured and they will be in the USA in November for a Christmas Show tour (Styrina is in that show too).

Then came Bernd Roberts. Just 2 weeks later he competed with his song "Hoer auf den Herz " in the Austrian Vortentscheid for the Grand Prix der Volksmusik. Bernd Roberts has been to the US previously and a real favorite along the East coast. He is one of many stars that Gisela Lewis brings to the US each year.

On the day that we toured Vienna, we went to Grinzing in the evening. We had some great house muscians playing old Vienniese tunes and soon it became a sing-along. That night one of our tour members, Wolfgang Ribbert, sang a beautiful song for us. Later Harry Steiner came by and really got our group up on their feet.

While we were at the Hotel Alexanderhof and young talented singer, Sandro, entertained us one evening. He gave us a 2 hour show and did not let us just sit there listening to him sing. He had us up on our feet doing the polanaise and had the men line up to show how well they could sing too. We had a lot of fun that night.

On our way to the Lammertal we went to the Laimeralm where the well known Laimer family provided the music with an absolutely breathtaking view of the valley below. When we got to Bavaria we stayed at the Hotel zur Post in Rohrdorf. The first evening we were entertained by Bettina Stark. She is quite a BIG talent on the tuba. She has been to the US in the past and several of our group were familiar with her. She also had some other entertainers with her, like Werner Buchner, who had some great songs. Also, Max Zantl, a famous yodler in the area gave us a sample of his fine voice.

We also saw a real Bavarian schuplatter group and had a typical bavarian meal. Our last evening in Germany, we went to the neighboring town of Neubeurern whose Stadt kappelle Musikkapelle Neubeuern was celebrating their 125th anniversary. It was held in a huge tent that held about 2,000 people. The local mayor tapped the first keg of beer and the little guy pictured to the right was ready. This Bavarian festival was also serving their beer in the traditional maas. It was a great way to end a fabulous trip.

Springtime in Germany

2009-07-14T05:25:00.019-05:00

We spent 2 wonderful weeks in May on a fabulous Bus Tour of Austria, Slovinia, Czech Repulic and Germany. The trip was organized by Gisela Lewis of Special Event Consultant, LLC and Peter Matthai, who is the leader of the Sandler. Peter's band performs any many German events along the East coast, Florida, Canada and Milwaukee's German Fest.

I have put some of my favorite pictures of the trip that include great scenery and having fun with our new friends in the slide show below. However, I will have a separate posting of just pictures of the entertainers we saw during those 2 weeks. After all it was a Reise mit Musik!

The trip started in Austria with stay at the beautiful Hotel Donauschlinge on the shores of the Danube. The view from our room was breathtaking. The food was so delicious at EVERY meal. It was really fun when we decided that for lunch we would go to a Konteterei and just eat Tortes. And we had our first Salzburger Nockerln, it was fantastic. We will definitely be having that again.

We visited such well know places in Austria such as Vienna, Grinzing (sampling the Heurigen) , and Linz. We had a day in Passau and a ride through the Bavarian forest with a stop at the Joskas Crystal world. The trip also went into Slovenia with a visit to the Slavko Avsenik museum & fest hall where we listened to Oberkrainer music, drank Slibowitz and enjoyed watching a tour group of almost all ladies who came from Russia.

But most of all it was a great group of people that we spent those two weeks with. We immediately found that we shared a love of German music and just plain having fun. If you get the New Yorker Staats-Zeitung then you have already read the articles published about this trip. Our friends, Otto & Sieglinde, wrote that detailed account of this trip. I loved reading their articles because it was almost like reliving it all over again and they had details that I had already forgotten. We met this talented couple several years ago on one of Ted Hierl's German Radio Cruises. We are all looking forward to the next one in May 2010.

Gisela & Peter are already getting plans together for next year's trip. So if you see either one of them at German Fest ask them about what destinations are in the works for next year. As soon as I get some details I will be making a post here and letting you know how to sign up.

We went on 3 boat trips, one on the Danube River, the Worthersee, and the Wachau. The trip on the Danube was private and only with our group while 2 musicians accompanied us on the whole trip. We toured the Schoenbrunn castle in Vienna, famous Melk, and saw breathtaking vistas upon the top of the Grossglockner (Austria's highest mountain).

We had music every day. If we were not at a fest enjoying a fine blaskappelle, we were being entertained after dinner at our hotel or enjoying country music Czech style. On the last day of our tour we went to the 125th Stiftungs fest of the Musikkapelle Neubeuern just minutes from our hotel. We were amazed at how many people showed up at this little Bavarian town's celebration. It was a week night and there were about 2,000 people in the large tent. I would estimate that at least 80% of the people were dressed in tracht; including this adorable little guy featured on the right. The slide show has several pictures of when the keg was tapped and of course a hardy "PROST" rang out after that!

It was truly a reise Mit Musik !!!

Lisa Holzmann is Finalist in Kinder Grand Prix

2009-07-05T04:50:00.002-05:00

Lisa Holzmann, who is the daughter of Josef Holzmann, is a finalist in the Kinder Grand Prix that is being held on July 11. We reported a few month ago that Lisa Holzmann was competing on the well known German TV show, Krone der Volksmusik, singing My Boy Lolliepop and asked our German readers to vote for this very talented young girl. As previously stated, Lisa's father, Josef Holzmann, was at Armin Homann's German Music Festival in Lake Villa last year.

For more info about the Kinder Grand Prix, go to Anneliese Breitenberger's website at: http://www.gpvolksmusiksuedtirol.it/ge/content.asp?CID=10008%2C10060 Lisa will be singing a song composed by the famous Gunther Behrle. Gunther Behrle is most famous for his hit, Patrona Bavarea and most recently last year's hit for Vincent & Fernando, Glaube an Gott. Lisa will be sining, Immer nur die Mailbox. We wish this very talented teenager success on July 11 when she competes in Sud Tirol.

Toi, Toi, Toi.

Lake Villa German Music Festival

2009-06-28T21:08:00.008-05:00

I was disappointed I was unable to attend Armin Homann's German Music Festival when it was in Milwaukee on June 27, but I was lucky enough to be able to see the show in Lake Villa, Illinois on June 28. I am so glad I was able to see the show, it was fabulous. The entertainers, Veronika Lenz and Heinz Koch, were very talented and soon had the audience singing along with old favorites.

As usual the American Aid Society prepared the food for the event and there were long lines. The grounds were packed and a blaskappele from Germany played on the outside stage. The blaskappele will also be performing on July 4 at Lake Villa.

Veronika Lenz has been the headliner at Disney's Epcot center for many years and is an accomplished yodler. She also did a song for us using the cowbells.

Heinz Koch had a great voice and did several new songs that I really liked. Later when we spoke to him, we found that comes from an area where Elmar's family lives. So the 2 Schwobs hit it off very well, but I got the smooch.

2009 Austria's Vorentscheid results

2009-06-14T19:45:00.008-05:00

All the finalists are listed at the Grand Prix der Volksmusik website and they will be competing in Munich on August 29. While I was on vacation in Austria/Germany I was lucky enough to meet Bernd Roberts. He was going to compete in the Austrian Vortentscheid on May 30, so I was lucky enough to see this talented singer entertain us live at Hotel Alexander in Austria. Unfortunately, Bernd Roberts did not make the finalists. One of the big surprises was that a newcomer, Pfarrer Franz Brei & Signum, made it to the finals. Here is a list of the finalists who will be representing Austria on August 29.

Pfarrer Franz Brei & Signum -- Das Leben...

Die Grubertaler -- Du darfst beim Autofahrn'n nit auf die Maedels schau'n

Leona & Swen -- Mach das nochmal mit mir

Andreas Gabalier -- So liab hob i di

Austria

Austria's vorentscheid original list that competed on May 30.

Natalie Holzner -- Alles fuer's Herz

Helga Frank -- Das Karussell dreht sich weiter

Pfarrer Franz Brei & Signum -- Das Leben...

Die Jungen Zillertaler -- Drobn auf'm Berg

Die Grubertaler -- Du darfst beim Autofahrn'n nit auf die Maedels schau'n

Bernd Roberts -- Hoer auf den Herz

Melanie -- I g'hoer nur dir

Zillertaler Gipfelstuermer -- Ich moechte mir Dir die Sunn aufgehn sehn

Leona & Swen -- Mach das nochmal mit mir

Yves -- Mama

Dunja -- Meine Liebe zu dir

Zellberg Buam -- Sing ma no oan

Andreas Gabalier -- So liab hob i di

Die Aufgeiger -- Sommerfieber

Steirerbluat -- Wir sind alle keine engel

2009 Deutschen Vorentscheid Results

2009-06-13T19:04:00.002-05:00

Finally, I had a chance to watch the Deutschen Vorentscheid for the annual Grand Prix der Volksmusik competition back on May 21. I enjoyed the show but my own personal favorites did not make the finals. My favorites have a lot to do with the fact that I have met some of them in the past and, of course, I was rooting for them, like, Reiner Kirsten. That is because we were able to meet him last year on Ted Hierl's Hawaii Cruise in 2008. The song by Gunther Behrle author that Claudia Dechant sang, Nimm diesen Ring, also did not make the finals. However, Judith & Mel's song, Liebe gibt - Liebe nimmt, which was written by Mel Jersey did make the finals and so did Claudia & Alexx. Each country has announced their finals and you will find them listed at the Grand Prix website. Note I have again included links to the singers' webpages below.

The results of the finalists going from Germany to the finals in Munich on August 29 are:

Bergkameraden & Oswald Sattler -- Ich traume von der Heimat

Judith & Mel -- Liebe gibt - Liebe nimmt

Claudia & Alexx -- Mama, danke

Rico Seith -- Tausen Augen Hoffnung

Germany

Here is the original list that competed at Germany's vorentscheid on May 21.

Vladimir Boldt -- Alle Sterne schaun Dir zu

Isartaler Hexen -- Brave Maedchen kommen in den Himmel

Zipfelbuben -- Das gibt sich bis 70

Bergkameraden & Oswald Sattler -- Ich traume von der Heimat

Benjamin Grund -- In nomine patris

Florian Fesl -- Lass uns wieder Freunde sein

Judith & Mel -- Liebe gibt - Liebe nimmt

Claudia & Alexx -- Mama, danke

Licht -- Mut zur Liebe

Claudia Dechant -- Nimm diesen Ring

Reiner Kirsten -- Signora Come stai

Rico Seith -- Tausen Augen Hoffnung

S chlagerfeuer -- Unsere Erde

Dorfrocker -- Unter'm Tanzboden sitzt der Teufel

Bel Amis -- Vaterunser

2009 Sudtirol Vorentscheid results of Grand Prix der Volksmusik

2009-06-09T20:45:00.007-05:00

Yes, the results of ALL the vorentscheids can be seen at the Grand Prix der Volksmusik website. During the Sudtirol Voretnscheid, we were on a two week bus tour of Austria/German with Gisela Lewis and Peter Matthai of the Sandlers. It was a fabulous trip, but I will report on that later.

First I would like to show you the results of the Vorentscheid that was held in Sudtirol on May 8. I was very happy to see that one of my favorites, Vincent & Fernando made it to the finals.

If you go to the Grand Prix website here are a few things to make note of. When you see the name Fabio Omero under Komponist and/or Text, that is the name Rudy Giovannini uses to write under. The song that Vincent & Fernando are competing with this year, was written by Rudy.

Also, note that Sauguat is competing this year ... again (they were disqualified last year).

The 4 finalists from Sudtirol who will be competing on August 29 in Munich are:

Vincent & Fernando -- Der Engel von Marienberg

Sauguat -- Mein Reschen am See

Volxrock -- Wenn du kannst

Alex & die Groedner Alphorn Blaeser -- Wenn i auf Bergeshoehen steh

Sudtirol

Sudtirol's vorenscheid was on May 8. Here is the original list that competed.

Das Schlernsextett -- Andreas Hofer

Vincent & Fernando -- Der Engel von Marienberg

Die Vaiolets -- Die Blume die im Herzen blueht

Die 4 Suedtiroler -- Ein ganzes herz voll Jahresringe

Patrick & seine Freunde -- Ein gutes Wort

Konrad Goller & Corinne -- Farben der Liebe

Bergfeuer -- Himalaya

Samira Dalnodar -- Kinder und Blumen

Sauguat -- Mein Reschen am See

Die Pustertaler -- Ohne die Musig

Graziano -- Romantica

Die Hopfenmusig -- Sudtiroler Marsch

Volxrock -- Wenn du kannst

Alex & die Groedner Alphorn Blaeser -- Wenn i auf Bergeshoehen steh

Etschland Express & Marion -- Wenn ich die Berge seh

Swiss Vortenscheid Results for 2009 Grand Prix der Volksmusik

2009-04-26T18:51:00.012-05:00

Switzerland's vorenscheid was last night, April 25. Four entries will go to the finals in Munich on August 29. Unfortunately, the song that Mario Wolf & Christoph Purtscheller of the Alpentrio Tirol wrote and sung by Maria DaVinci, Jeder Herzschlag fur dich, did not make it to the finals. However, I am very happy to report that Sarah Jane will again be in the finals for this year's Grand Prix der Volksmusik.

Sarah Jane -- Bliib doch bi mir
Geni Good & seine Glarner Oberkrainer -- Chlefeler Schtimmig
Stefan Roos & Saengerfreunde -- Das Herz einer Mutter
Gruppe Plauschler - Ich kann nicht aufhoern dich zu lieben

Three vorenscheids are still left. Keep checking back to see the results.

Austria - May 30
Germany - May 21
Sudtirol - May 8

Switzerland
Here is the list of original entries.

Sarah Jane -- Bliib doch bi mir
Geni Good & seine Glarner Oberkrainer -- Chlefeler Schtimmig
Stefan Roos & Saengerfreunde -- Das Herz einer Mutter
Salvo -- Grad wie im 7. Himmel
Gruppe Plauschler - Ich kann nicht aufhoern dich zu lieben
Christian Duss -- Das Liebeslied der Berge
Maria DaVinci -- Jeder Herzschlag fuer dich
Roman Peters -- La vita e bella
Orig. Voralpen-Express -- sag mir das, sag mir was
Yasmine-Melanie -- Schenk' mir heut' ein bisschen Zeit
Pascal G -- Tu Mi Corazon
Michelle & Philipp mit Wirbelwind -- Wenn du mein Herz beruehrst

Spielmannszug Bock Beer Fest - 2009

2009-04-26T08:34:00.002-05:00

Last night's Bock Beer Fest was a lot of fun. Take a look!!

2009 Grand Prix der Volksmusik

2009-04-01T15:11:00.008-05:00

Well, it is that time of year where the nominees for the annual Grand Prix der Volksmusik competition has started. As many of you know, each country (Austria, Germany, Sudtirol & Switzerland) will have a preliminary (vorentsteid) competition in their own countries and then send the top 4 to the final competion being held in Munich on August 29, 2009.

Happily, Vincent & Fernando are competing this year for Sudtirol again. Last year their song, Glaube an Gott was in a tie with the Klostertaler, and after 2 tie breakers they lost out. Hopefully, they will be successful this year. These talented brothers were the first entertainers I interviewed when Tim was still hosting the Stimmung Stunde. That interview aired in April 2004 and you can still hear it by CLICKING HERE. We certainly hope they make number one this year.

Also, Reiner Kirsten, from Germany, is competing. He was the featured entertainer on Ted Hierl's Hawaii Cruise in 2008. Many of the passengers enjoyed the Schwarzwald boy's beautiful songs and his charming personnality on that cruise and I know they will be rooting for him.

If you go to the Grand Prix website here are a few things to make note of. You might note the name Fabio Omero under Komponist and/or Text, that is name Rudy Giovannini uses to write under. Even Vincent & Fernando's song is from him this year. Also, note that Sauguat is competing this year ... again (they were disqualified last year).

The Germany listing shows Gunther Behrle as the author of the song that Claudia Dechant sings, Nimm diesen Ring. Judith & Mel's song, Liebe gibt - Liebe nimmt, was written by Mel Jersey. The music for the song that Benjamin Grund sings, In nomine patris, was written by Benjamin Grund. Claudia & Alexx are again among the contests and have gotten very close in the past. Those of you who watch German TV will notice that Florian Fesl is in the competition. He was on the Immer Wieder Sonntags show all summer and lost the competion the very last week.

Switzerland's Maria Da Vinci sings Jeder Herzschlag fuer dich. The music and text were written by Mario Wolf & Christoph Purtscheller, who are in the Alpentrio Tirol. I wonder why they did not have an artist from Austria perform their song.

Each country has announced their nominees and you will find them listed below or go to the Grand Prix website for more details. Note there are links to the singers' webpages below. Some of them even have samples of their songs at their websites that you can listen to.

Austria

Austria's vorentscheid will be May 30.

Natalie Holzner -- Alles fuer's Herz

Helga Frank -- Das Karussell dreht sich weiter

Pfarrer Franz Brei & Signum -- Das Leben...

Die Jungen Zillertaler -- Drobn auf'm Berg

Die Grubertaler -- Du darfst beim Autofahrn'n nit auf die Maedels schau'n

Bernd Roberts -- Hoer auf den Herz

Melanie -- I g'hoer nur dir

Zillertaler Gipfelstuermer -- Ich moechte mir Dir die Sunn aufgehn sehn

Leona & Swen -- Mach das nochmal mit mir

Yves -- Mama

Dunja -- Meine Liebe zu dir

Zellberg Buam -- Sing ma no oan

Andreas Gabalier -- So liab hob i di

Die Aufgeiger -- Sommerfieber

Steirerbluat -- Wir sind alle keine engel

Germany

Germany's vorentscheid will be on May 21

Vladimir Boldt -- Alle Sterne schaun Dir zu

Isartaler Hexen -- Brave Maedchen kommen in den Himmel

Zipfelbuben -- Das gibt sich bis 70

Bergkameraden & Oswald Sattler -- Ich traume von der Heimat

Benjamin Grund -- In nomine patris

Florian Fesl -- Lass uns wieder Freunde sein

Judith & Mel -- Liebe gibt - Liebe nimmt

Claudia & Alexx -- Mama, danke

Licht -- Mut zur Liebe

Claudia Dechant -- Nimm diesen Ring

Reiner Kirsten -- Signora Come stai

Rico Seith -- Tausen Augen Hoffnung

S chlagerfeuer -- Unsere Erde

Dorfrocker -- Unter'm Tanzboden sitzt der Teufel

Bel Amis -- Vaterunser

Sudtirol

Sudtirol's vorenscheid will be May 8.

Das Schlernsextett -- Andreas Hofer

Vincent & Fernando -- Der Engel von Marienberg

Die Vaiolets -- Die Blume die im Herzen blueht

Die 4 Suedtiroler -- Ein ganzes herz voll Jahresringe

Patrick & seine Freunde -- Ein gutes Wort

Konrad Goller & Corinne -- Farben der Liebe

Bergfeuer -- Himalaya

Samira Dalnodar -- Kinder und Blumen

Sauguat -- Mein Reschen am See

Die Pustertaler -- Ohne die Musig

Graziano -- Romantica

Die Hopfenmusig -- Sudtiroler Marsch

Volxrock -- Wenn du kannst

Alex & die Groedner Alphorn Blaeser -- Wenn i auf Bergeshoehen steh

Etschland Express & Marion -- Wenn ich die Berge seh

Switzerland

Switzerland's vorenscheid will be April 25.

Sarah Jane -- Bliib doch bi mir

Geni Good & seine Glarner Oberkrainer -- Chlefeler Schtimmig

Stefan Roos & Saengerfreunde -- Das Herz einer Mutter

Salvo -- Grad wie im 7. Himmel

Gruppe Plauschler - Ich kann nicht aufhoern dich zu lieben

Christian Duss -- Das Liebeslied der Berge

Maria DaVinci -- Jeder Herzschlag fuer dich

Roman Peters -- La vita e bella

Orig. Voralpen-Express -- sag mir das, sag mir was

Yasmine-Melanie -- Schenk' mir heut' ein bisschen Zeit

Pascal G -- Tu Mi Corazon

Michelle & Philipp mit Wirbelwind -- Wenn du mein Herz beruehrst

Siegfried and Roy Final Performance in Las Vegas

2009-03-06T22:04:00.005-06:00

Many of you have probably watched the 20/20 show on abc tonight that did a special show featuring Siegfried & Roy's final performance in Las Vegas. When Roy Horn was mauled by a tiger during a performance, many thought he would never be on stage again. Roy has made a fabulous recovery and although he is very limited he was able to take the stage again with his beloved partner Siegfried at the Bellagio in Las Vegas. What a tribute to the strong friendship these superstars have displayed. I found several clips on YouTube that have various cuts from their fabulous career and have links listed below.

This clip is the news release on abc that shows several clips from the 20/20 show that was broadcast tonight: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VdQN8VOs24A

Here is a clip that was aired in Germany on their news station: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YYYF5qTcQ3I

Here's a clip from interviews with stars that attended the final performance: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OZwKlxY0TlM

This clip is from the Discovery Channel that analyizes the attack on Roy by the Tiger during that fateful night: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1HHPo3qxomQ&feature=related

Here is the interview that Siegfried & Roy with Barbara Walters: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I-K5l1jUHGY&NR=1

German TV visits Siegfried & Roy at home: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QCBUpKcyoWA&feature=related

When you get to YouTube just do a search on Siegfried & Roy to see what other videos you might find.

European Spring Tour

2009-02-20T14:26:00.005-06:00

If you are looking for a great tour this Spring, take a look at the flyer to the left (click on flyer to enlarge). This 2 week tour of Germany, Austria and Slovenia/Czech Republic takes place May 6 - May 20. This escorted tour includes hotels, bus transportation with Bilingual tour guide, all breakfasts & dinners, admissions to several attractions (see daily iterary at our Events page), and entertainment galore.

I found out about this fabulous tour from friends we met on Ted Hierl's German-American Radio Cruises. Otto and Sieglinde wrote those terrific reports in the New Yorker Staats Zeitung about the Hawaii Cruise in 2008 and the Carribean Cruise in 2007.

This tour is being offered by Gisela Lewis of New Jersey. Gisela has provided German entertainment all over the United States and the Milwaukee German Fest. And now she has put together this music filled tour with Peter Matthai of Thuringen Germany. Some of you may remember Peter when he was at the Milwaukee German Fest with his band Die Sandler. You will experience several boat tours (one is on the Danube), Passau and Vienna. But that is only a small sample of what this tour has to offer.

If you would like more info about this tour, give Gisela Lewis a call at: (732) 528-5135. If you prefer talking to the booking agent, call Hans at Murray Hill International (Global Travel Solutions): (800) 776-4655. Hans can book this tour for you and if you would like him to help you book your air flight, he will be happy to help you. By clicking our Events button on the left sidebar, you will find a detailed list of where this tour will go day by day.

2009-02-17T04:49:00.004-06:00

We received the following e-mail from Armin Stockl. Armin was here in Milwaukee (and Chicago) in November 2008 along with Birgit Pless and Max Lechner. They did a fabulous Christmas show and if you are wondering what he is up to, here is an update. In March, he is planning to release a new CD and will be touring with his own Band. Robert Deglau of Continental Showcase has been playing Armin's music and was responsible for bringing this talented young man to Milwaukee. If you are planning to go to Germany, checkout Armin Stockl's website to see his tour dates.

Viel Gefühl und jede Menge Sehnsucht -
das neue Album von ARMIN STÖCKL

"Ich möchte bei dir sein" - so wird sie heißen - die NEUE von Armin Stöckl. Und damit möchte Armin ganz nah seinem Publikum sein mit einer einzigartigen unverwechselbaren und echten Stimme und einer Ausstrahlung mit viel Persönlichkeit, Authentizität und Lebensfreude. Der Schlagerromantiker ist etwas reifer geworden, hat aber nichts von seinem jugendlichen Eifer und Charme verloren. Im Gegenteil! Neben ergreifenden Balladen und Texten mit Sinn und Gefühl, wie "Haus am See", "Überall denk ich an dich" oder "My love can change", lassen sich auch absolut tanzbare Diskoschlager mit den Namen "Du hast Klasse" oder auch die hitverdächtige Albumtitelnummer "Ich möchte bei dir sein" finden. Doch jeder der 14 Titel birgt eine kleine Überraschung in sich...

Und so soll es auch bleiben! Zumindest bis 23.Mai 2009. Ein Termin, den sich alle Fans von Armin Stöckl dick im Kalender anstreichen sollten. Im Kursaal von Bad Griesbach, im berühmten Bäderdreieck, wird Armin Stöckl mit seiner CD "Ich möchte bei dir sein" Premiere feiern. Da ist es sicher ein gutes Omen, dass gerade ZDF-Hitparadenmoderator UWE HÜBNER durch den stimmungsvollen Abend führen wird! Außerdem werden viele musikalische Freunde von Armin Stöckl mit zum Gelingen des musikalischen Feuerwerks beitragen. Live wird Armin mit eigener Band begleitet werden!

"Ich möchte bei dir sein" wird übrigens die neue Single des charismatischen Sängers werden, die Mitte März erscheint. Quasi ein kleiner Vorgeschmack mit großem Hitpotenzial!
Das neue Album versprüht eine herrliche Leichtigkeit und wurde mit sehr viel Fingerspitzengefühl vom neuen Produzententeam produziert. Die Texte, die Musik und der Gesang ergeben ein besonders harmonisches Klangbild.

http://www.armin-stoeckl.de/-> nur noch ein paar Tage bis sich die Homepage im neuen Design präsentiert.....!

Rheinischer Verein - Weiberfastnacht

2009-02-14T07:30:00.001-06:00

Date & Time
February 19, 2009 - Time: 5:11 pm

Ticket Info
Ticket Cost: (details forthcoming)
Call: Mark Semrow 262-549-6557 or Larry Domine 414-527-0962 for tickets or any other information you would like about the Rheinischer Verein.

Description
The Weiberfastnacht presented by the Rheinischer Verein annually is a favorite in Milwaukee. This is a Ladies only event, but that is, if you are DRESSED like a woman. It is a lot of fun and you may not recognize some of your best friends at this event.

Music: Johnny Hoffman and His Herzbuben Band

For more info, go to the Karnevals Gesellschaft Rheinischer Verein Gruen-Weiss website. http://www.mardigrasmilwaukee.com/

Location
Bavarian Inn (Map)
700 W. Lexington Blvd., Glendale, WI

German Fest News

2009-01-24T07:03:00.010-06:00

I just got an e-mail from Manfred Schuster of the Widderstein Buaba. They were at the 2007 German Fest in Milwaukee and teamed up with the OBERALLGÄU MUSIKANTEN, who sent a nice Christmas greeting this year. Those of you who saw this band remember that they were quite lively and had a lot of fun on stage. If you go to either one of their websites (links provided above), you will see a large collection of pictures of their 2007 performance in Milwaukee at German Fest. Maybe you are even in one of those pictures. I am sure they will have a lot of new music for all of you to enjoy. If you check the website, http://www.germanfest.com/, you will see that the Entertainment page has the same info as I have listed below.

As I receive more entertainment news, I will post it on my EVENTS page. I will keep a running list and links to the 2009 German Fest entertainment. But keep an eye on their website, they might be posting it too.

Their motto says it all: „Good music and much fun.“

It’s a combination that has made Widderstein-Buaba an audience
favorite at Oktoberfests in Canada, Philadelphia, Munich and Florida
as well as events throughout their homeland of Austria.

Now the band brings a unique brand of traditional folk, - dance and
Oktoberfest music to Milwaukee during their second appearance .

6 fun loving musicians look forward to your visit and a super party!!

A last good bye to Joe Bittner

2009-01-18T22:00:00.033-06:00

Today the DCS Shooters paid tribute to their buddy, Joe Bittner. It was held at the Boxhorn Gunclub where Joe spent a lot of time shooting trap with his DCS Shooters teammates. We want to thank Rick & Debbie Schim for offering to let us hold this at their gunclub. But especially Debbie for making this a very special day for all of us.

As reported on this website, Joe passed away on December 22, just 2 days before his mother's 80th birthday. He had just returned from a trip to Peru and came home to Wisconsin with a pile of snow waiting for him. He started up his snowblower, but never finished. Neighbors saw him in his front yard and it was already too late. Joe passed away at the young age of 56. The irony was that his father had passed away at the very same age.

The DCS Shooters: Uwe Brunn, Hans Buchert, Pete Aschenbrenner, Elmar Kretschmann, Stefan Brunn and Roland Schneiker along with their family members and friends gathered at Boxhorn Gunclub to celebrate the life of Joe Bittner.

Joe's mother, Mary Bittner, and his brother, Frank, joined the group for this celebration. Mary brought a big basket of "kipfel" along for all to enjoy. Joe was not a fancy guy, so this wasn't a fancy party, but we think it was the way Joe would have liked it. A couple pizzas and a lot of beer, but most of all there was a lot of laughter and fun remembering Joe.

Below is a short story that Mary Buchert told about Joe when he was best man at their wedding. Joe remained a big part of the Buchert family and kept his close ties to them throughout the years. Just click on the video to watch Mary tell this story. There were other amusing stories, but I wasn't able to catch them all on tape. To say the least, Joe was a very colorful guy and you just could not help smiling when you were around him.

Tim Kretschmann delivered and wrote the Eulogy. He has many fond memories of Joe and brings to light the great love Joe had in his beloved hobby, trap shooting. You can click on the video below, but if you have some trouble with the audio, a copy of the Eulogy is printed below.

I've been asked today to say a few words about our friend, Joe Bittner. It's hard, though, to sum up a life in a “few words” and though no one would accuse Joe of being a chatty-Cathy, Joe could talk about his favorite subject at length, so why would we want to give him short shrift? Hans tells me that on occasion the bar would be closed and still the discussion continued in the parking lot. If you really had some time on your hands, mention the Schwabenhof to him and wait out the storm.

Fact be told, anytime Joe entered a room, you would know it. He filled a room and you would hear him from any corner of the room. I don't think he would ever whisper. He spoke from deep within him and nothing was hidden...it all came out...unfiltered and true.

Joe traveled a lot for his job at Falk. But Joe was not some distinguished James Bond socialite type floating around the world. (Let's face it: Joe had a boob hat that said “Let's see a pair” and one hat that said “Pull. Bang. Shit.”) No, Joe wasn't one of those refined travelers that looked his nose down at everything other than his homeland, nor was a snob with his smattering of tastes around the world. Joe was a generous traveler. He would share his knowledge for his job and quite often, he shared his love of his sport, shooting trap, with the people he would meet. I know that he would often find gun clubs while abroad to continue his love affair with those orange clay birds he was so fond of shattering.

Joe has visited the Artic Circle, Czech Republic, Columbia, Ecuador, Venezuela, Mexico, Bali up on the volcano, and Peru. While in the army, he was stationed in Japan and actually spoke a little Japanese with an entertainer at German Fest a few years back. But his most famous voyage, the voyage of which no one would ever forget, happened in the small hamlet of Ulm in Germany. The voyage included a very special bus that was in constant need of...well, let's call it fuel. Joe was always up to the task to help out.

For me, I can hardly even picture Joe without a cigarette in his hand (until he had to put a beer in that hand) or out shooting trap. I don't think any of us had any idea when we went out to the old Junker farm to shoot trap those times with Donauschwaben Jaeger Verein how much trap would come to be a part of Joe's and by extension all of our lives.

Some people don't know about the softer side of Joe. He was well known as the beer-drinking gun aficionado, but his philanthropic side goes unremembered.

Joe started by donating for diabetes at the Boxhorn's shoot. He changed those donations to breast cancer. He became involved in breast cancer due to his friend's daughter Katie Buchert's battle with this dreaded disease. The first year Katie had the disease, Joe came over at Christmas with a penguin from Happy Feet with a card inscribed “To the person with the Happiest Feet I know.”

Joe Bittner was also an organ donor. His bones and skin were used to help over 60 people. Even in death, Joe's generosity lived on and he helped so many.

Joe was one of the founders of the Damn Crappy Shooters that shot here at Boxhorn's as often as he could. Joe was probably the namer of the group; but that is the stuff of legend. If he was in the state of Wisconsin, he was out with the Krieghoff to show us all what he could do. He would take vacation for the state and national shoot each year—it was the only type of vacation he wouldn't let be pre-empted.

Now, we all know I can't shoot trap to save my life, but this has made me a fairly attentive fan of those that can. I have noticed with most people that take up trap there are two phases in trap shooting. You start by being excited every time you hit one. As your skills grow, though, you enter a new phase and in this phase, you grow disappointed with each one you miss. The goal, of course, at that phase is not to miss. Joe would be frustrated with each miss, no doubt, and some of the language he would use when missing would make the next bird think twice about crossing him.

My point is, Joe would take great pride in helping his friends go from the thrill of each hit to the disappointment of each miss. Now, we all find ourselves with a great disappointment—as we all miss Joe Bittner. His open mouth smile. His full body laugh. And his huge heart. We'll miss that most of all.

The video above is when 12 shooters, including Joe's brother, Frank, the DCS shooters, and friends of Joe. They each shot 3 rounds as a tribute to their friend, Joe Bittner.

Good bye Joe. You will be missed.

2008 Hawaii Cruise Report

2009-01-11T18:30:00.035-06:00

If you can read German, here is a report of last year's cruise to Hawaii on the Golden Princess with Reiner Kirsten. This article was published in the New Yorker Staats-Zeitung on January 3, 2009, written by fellow cruisers, Otto und Sieglinde (pictured to the left). It gives a detailed account of our cruising experience with this fun group of people. The article is all in the German language, so just click here to read the whole article. Also, you can take a look at our Hawaii cruise page and see all the pictures we took on this fabulous cruise by clicking HERE. The New Yorker Staats-Zeitung would appreciate your support and we thank them for letting us reproduce this article here on our website. If you would like to help support this fine German Language newspaper, please subscribe.

Die New Yorker Staats-Zeitung oder die California Staats-Zeitung koennen unter der folgenden zollfreien Telefonnummer bei Frau Margita Baldeweg bestellt werden: 1-877-818-6201 or send an e-mail to, NYStaatsZ@aol.com

If you are interested in this year's cruise with Ted Hierl to the Southern Caribbean, please take a look at our Southern Caribbean cruise page featuring the Original Naabtall Duo. We have some links to YouTube, if you want to see what this talented Duo can do.

Here are the opening paragraphs of the newspaper article, if you would like the complete article CLICK HERE.

Obwohl es im Lied heißt, daß es in Hawaii kein Bier gibt, konnten die Reiseteilnehmer von Ted Hierl’s German American Radio Cruise bei der kűrzlichen Kreuzfahrt selber feststellen, daß das nicht den Tatsachen entspricht. Es gab viele Sorten von Bier, sogar deutsches Bier aus Műnchen, auf dem stolzen Schiff „Golden Princess“ und auch auf den vier Inseln von Hawaii, die das Schiff anlief.

Die Hauptattraktion auf dieser Traumreise war der deutsche Star und Schlagersänger Reiner Kirsten aus Freiburg im Schwarzwald. Er sang außer neuen deutschen Schlagern auch viele, immer so gern von den Deutsch-Amerikanern gehörten, deutsche Volkslieder. Alle sangen kräftig mit! Er forderte auch die Leute zum tanzen auf, was von vielen gerne befolgt wurde. Reiner Kirsten ist ein außerordentlich gut aussehender junger Mann, der es mit seinem sonnigen Lächeln und seinen wunderschönen blauen Augen allen Damen angetan hatte. Der talentierte Kűnstler schreibt viele seiner Lieder selbst. Alte Schlager, wie „Heimat deine Sterne“ wurden von den Zuschauern mit begeistertem Applaus bedacht. Als er erwähnte, daß bei seinen frűheren Auftritten ihm oft eine Dame ein Glas Rotwein zur Bűhne brachte, stűrmten gleich drei Damen aus dem Publikum mit vollen Gläsern zu ihm hin.

Reiner Kirsten wurde von den Original Elstertaler Musikanten, den Stimmungsmachern aus Thűringen, unter Leitung von „Semmi“ meisterhaft unterstűtzt. Die Elstertaler haben schon öfters bei den vielen Kreuzfahrten, von Ted Hierl und Clark Travel veranstalteten Schiffsreisen, aufgespielt. Clark Travel, zusammen mit Ted Hierl, hatte zu Beginn der Kreuzfahrt zu einer Begrűßungsparty geladen mit freien Getränken fűr alle Teilnehmer. Auch bei der Abschiedsparty gab es freie Drinks. Bei dieser Feier erschien sogar der Kapitän des Schiffes, John Foster. Er stieß mit Ted Hierl und Reiner Kirsten mit einer Flasche Spatenbier an. Wieder einmal gelang es den Elstertalern die Stimmung hochzuschrauben. Bei einer großen Polonaise schlängelte sich eine lange Reihe Deutschamerikaner und Bundesbűrger aus der alten Heimat durch die Vista Lounge, lautstark singend. An dieser Polonaise nahmen sogar einige philippinische junge Kellner teil, die den Anfang der langen Schlange űberműtiger Menschen bildeten. Unsere Reisegesellschaft hatte immerhin 340 Teilnehmer; 85 davon aus Deutschland, hauptsächlich Thűringen. ... CLICK here to finish reading this article.

Lisa Holzmann will be on Krone der Volksmusik this Saturday

2009-01-08T05:06:00.011-06:00

You might remember when Josef Holzmann appeared in Lake Villa, Illinois last June at the German-American Musik Festival. He is a very popular singer in Germany and spent a week in the Chicago area along with Gunther Behrle & Petra Boeck. Well Josef also has a very talented 11 year old daughter, Lisa. Gunther Behrle who also appeared at the German-American Musik Festival , and is famous for writting "Patrona Bavarea", recommended Lisa join a competition, which she won!

Lisa will be appearing on Saturday, January 10, on the Krone der Volksmusik. It is being broadcast LIVE on ARD at 20:15 German time. For those of you who subscribe to Shift TV be sure to record this program. We certainly will be watching and hope that this talented 11 year old does well. Lisa has often appeared with her dad on stage, but this performance will be ALL LISA. The people in Germany will be able to vote for their favorite Newcomer, so let your relatives know in Germany to vote for Lisa Holzmann.

Fur unsre Deutsch Sprache lesser, bitte vote fur Lisa Holzmann als Newcomer an Samstag, an Die Krone der Volksmusik . Toi Toi Toi, Lisa!

Here is a picture of Lisa's proud parents, Josef & Beate Holzmann, when Josef was performing at Lake Villa, Illinois (near Chicago) in June.

Rest in Peace Joe Bittner

2008-12-23T04:58:00.005-06:00

Joe Bittner passed away on December 22 at the age of 56. Joe was part of the DCS Shooters and lead them to some of their best scores in trap shooting. Joe was always there with a helpful hint and enjoyed the time with the "guys". He was a generous donor to the Boxhorn Gun club and if you are there sometime look for his name on a placque thanking him for the voice activated trap station.

Joe participated in the Breast Cancer Awareness shoot held at Boxhorn this year because his dear friend Hans has a daughter that has been battling this horrible disease. Click Here to see some pictures of that event.

The funeral will be held at Harders Funeral home, 18700 W. Capitol Drive, on Saturday December 27, 9 am -- Service 11 am. Click Here to go the the Milwaukee Journal announcement and you will be able to sign the guestbook located at the website.

Freddy Breck dies of cancer at 66

2008-12-18T06:55:00.008-06:00

My friend, Maria Olliges, just sent me an e-mail with a link to this story on Smago. If you cannot read German, it reports the death of singer, Freddy Breck, at the age of 66. He died of cancer on December 17.

http://www.smago.de/freddy-breck-der-saenger-und-entertainer-freddy-breck-ist-tot,,,,41837.html

Freddy Breck had an appearance in Milwaukee at the Red Carpet Inn in 1986 (see picture on right) and was most famous for his hit Rote Rosen. I remember the show he put on and he was a fabulous entertainer. He was not only a great singer, but quite a talented comedian and had all the people laughing with his dialect impersonnations. He will be missed in the Volksmusik world.

I received an e-mail also from Ted Hierl, who has been the top German Radio host broadcasting from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania for many years. Ted knew Freddy Breck personally and received a call from Freddy's wife, Astrid. Freddy Breck starred at the Heritagefest in New Jersey many times and Ted with his wife, Hilde, have many fond memories of their time with him.

If you would like to see a clip of Freddy Breck performing his biggest hit, Rote Rosen, click on the link below on YouTube.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=AMkd-uCaKqg

Frohe Weihnachten from Oberallgau Musikanten

2008-12-17T20:25:00.011-06:00

This e-mail comes from the Oberallgau Musikanten. If they look familiar to some of the Milwaukee people, that is because they teamed up with the Widdersteiner in 2007 at German Fest in Milwaukee.

Eine schöne Weihnachtszeit und alles Gute fürs neue Jahr 2009 wünschen euch die OBERALLGÄU MUSIKANTEN

Michl, Stefan und Hansi

http://www.oberallgaeu-musikanten.de/

Bartholomew is BACK

2008-12-15T19:41:00.010-06:00

Those of you who were regular listeners to the Stimmung Stunde while it was on the air in Milwaukee remeber the delightful antics of Bartholomew, Santa's 2nd favorite elf. He had many adventures and seemed to be giving poor Tim a headache every week.

Well, Bartholomew has reappeared for the Christmas season on the TKPN podcast network. Here is a link to his adventures this year. For audio click here; TKPN Podcast #16.

Also, below is a little video brought to you from the past.

Alpentrio Tirol appear in California on New Year's Eve

2008-12-15T17:50:00.017-06:00

I just received the following newletter from the Alpentrio Tirol. Please note that they will be appearing in the states for New Year's Eve at the Alpine Village in Torrance, California

Alpentrio Tirol News Dezember 2008

"Weihnacht in den Bergen" und "Das Abendgebet der Berge" in AUSVERKAUFTE KIRCHEN!

Die gewaltige Rückmeldung der Fans und der Presse über diese außergewöhnlichen und besinnlichen Kirchenkonzerte bestätigen das Alpentrio erneut.
Besonders sind die Konzerte in Korbach und Osterode zu erwähnen!

Vielen Dank an alle Fans, die diese Kirchenkonzerte besuchen.
Ohne euch wären solche Erfolge nicht möglich!

TV-SENDUNGEN

Das Alpentrio wird zu Weihnachten 3mal im Fernsehen zu sehen sein:

21.12.2008 20:00 MDR "Herbert Roth Gala" aus Suhl

23.12.2008 19:00 BR "Melodien der Berge" Zillertaler Weihnacht

26.12.2008 09:00 MDR Morgenstund mit Alpentrio Tirol

Silvester in L.A.

Das Alpentrio Tirol wird Silvester in Los Angeles auftreten!

Bei der New Year´s Eve Performance im Alpine Village werden bekannte Klänge zum Jahreswechsel gespielt.
Natürlich würde sich das Alpentrio freuen einen Fan aus Europa in Amerika zu treffen.

Frohe besinnliche Weihnachten

Frohe besinnliche Weihnachten und einen guten Rutsch ins Neue Jahr wünscht das Alpentrio allen Fans und Geschäftspartnern.

Vielen Dank für die großartige Unterstützung das ganze Jahr über!

Kontakt

Alpentrio Tirol – Büro Martina Astenwald
Management Alpentrio Tirol
Fürstenweg 191 · A-6020 Innsbruck
Telefon +43-512-294737 · Fax DW 4
Mobil Büroleitung +43-664-2004141

www.alpentrio.com
info@alpentrio.com

Osthoff Resort Old World Christmas Market

2008-12-05T04:48:00.001-06:00

The Osthoff Resort will be holding an Old World Christmas Market starting December 5 - 14. Get in the Holiday mood by taking a ride out to Elkhart Lake to this fabulous event. It is held outdoors in a huge heated tent with lots of vendors and unique gifts available.

The Osthoff Resort's 11th annual traditional European Christmas Market, reminiscent of the centuries-old German Christkindlesmarkt, features authentic gifts, toys, ornaments and food specialties from international and regional artisans in timber booths adorned in fresh greens and thousands of twinkling white lights.

DirectionsMapquest Link

Driving Directions to The Osthoff from:Milwaukee

Take I-43 North out of Milwaukee
Veer left to Exit #97, which turns into Hwy 57 North to Plymouth
Turn Left onto Hwy 23 West
Exit onto Hwy 67 North
Turn left onto Hwy 67 North
Follow Hwy 67 North into Elkhart Lake
Turn left at the four-way stop onto Rhine Street
Turn left onto Osthoff Avenue

Phone: 1-800-876-3399 or 920-876-3366

mailto:osthoff@osthoff.com

Weihnachts Show presented by Robert Deglau

2008-12-01T18:00:00.000-06:00

Saturday night was the Weihnachts Show presented by Robert Deglau of Continental Showcase. A big thank you to Robert for inviting Elmar & I backstage before the show so we could meet the performers personnally. We already knew Armin Stoeckl from 1-1/2 years ago in Lake Villa German Music Festival held the last weekend of June each year that is hosted by Armin Homann, but it was nice to talk to Max Lechner and Birgit Pless. Max told us about the last time he was in Chicago and had a serious heart attack that hospitalized him. Therefore this will be his farwell performance on this tour and then go into retirement, concentrating on managing Armin Stoeckl's career.

The show was a 2 part program. The first part featured popular schlager and heimat lieder performed by all three entertainers. First was Max Lechner and he sang several songs composed by Robert Jung. Max charmed the audience with many old favorites and many were singing along with him. Next, Birgit Pless sang both new and old favorites, more the schlager type of song. Then Armin Stoeckl came on stage and surprised everyone with his beautiful deep tones. Recently, Armin won the Deutsche Rock & Pop award and performed his popular Lady Manana along with popular songs. Then the very talented band played some music while the performance made a costume change.

The second half of the show was the Christmas program. Again, Max Lechner started off the show and soon had the whole audience singing along with him. When Birgit Pless appeared in her cute little Santa outfit you saw all the men stretch their necks to get a better view. She sang her popular Christmas song entitled Weihnachtsrose. When Armin Stoeckl came on stage she made sure that he looked a little more festive. She had a pair of Santa boxer shorts for him that actually matched her outfit very well and topped him off with a Santa hat.

At the end of the show the 3 performers lead the audience in a medley of favorite old Christmas songs and even got Armin Homan and Robert Deglau to join them on stage. And of course, the last song was Silent Night (Stille Nacht).

After the show the 2 man band played music for the dancing pleasure of the audience. As always the German performers made themselves very available for pictures, audigraphs, and just chating with the fans. It was a very nice evening and a nice way to start off the Christmas season. We hope that Robert Deglau will be able to continue to bring German entertainers to Milwaukee.

Below you will find a slide show of pictures taken both during the show and afterwards. If you want to download any of these pictures, just go to the Slideshow website and download them for free.

Marianne Trivalos

2008-11-26T19:51:00.010-06:00

Sadly, Marianne Trivalos, passed away on Monday November 24. I took the photo on the left this year at German Fest here in Milwaukee. I thought it was so nice to see 3 generations all actively engaged in sharing their heritage with visitors to the fest. Marianne was very proud of her daughter, Heidi, and granddaughter, Maria, and they were always at her side. They will miss her deeply, but most of all her dedicated husband, Dick, will miss her most. They were married for 51 years. You seldom saw one without the other close by. They did almost everything together. Please click here to read the death notice on line at the Journal Sentinal and sign the guestbook with your memories of Marianne.

Marianne was very involved in the German-American community for many years. She and her husband, Dick, were among the original German Fest directors when it started 28 years ago. But she had held the position of Secretary in the German-American Societies for over 25 years before that. Many of you probably remember her from the Saturday morning German classes and are greatful to her for having taught you the German language where she was both a teacher and principal. She was always there with a helping hand as a member of the Bayerischer Vergnuegungs Club.

Our family will miss seeing her out in her garden in the summer and we will no longer be able to wave to her as we drive by. But most of all we will miss her smiling face at the Bavarian Inn making sure the Pretzel booth ran smoothly. Marianne we will miss you!!!

Funeral arrangements are as follows.

Sunday November 30, 4 pm to 7 pm service

Becker Ritter, 140 W. North Ave, Brookfield, Wisconsin

Magdalena has arrived

2008-11-25T17:31:00.008-06:00

It has almost been a week since little Magdalena Ann made her appearance on November 19. She was a healthy 8-1/2 pounds and her proud parents, Mike & Laura, are happy they could bring her home to celebrate her first holiday. This will certainly be a memorable Thanksgiving for the Wagner family. Mike's mom, Grandma Irene, is busy sewing all kinds of cute things for her first grandchild and somehow I think this lucky little girl will soon be in a dirndl. Laura's dad, Grandpa Glen, is hoping that Mike will teach her how to fix cars even though she's a girl.

Little Magdalena Ann has a whole bunch of relatives who are lining up to get a chance to babysit, but for now they will have to be happy to just hold her for a little bit while Laura gets dinner started. This lucky little girl was named after her Great-Great Grandma, who celebrated her 95th birthday this year. She was one of the few that predicted that Laura would have a girl; everyone else thought it was going to be a boy. You should have seen all the stuff she got at the shower that was blue. Luckily a girl can wear baby blue too.