Kansas City Calendar of Events

GOAL: to help promote awareness and attendance for charitable, fundraising, civic, sporting and social events; to avoid scheduling conflicts on events and to help recruit new volunteers for some worthy causes.

Saturday

German Ethnic Events



All things German in Kansas City!

The listing below is shown in numerical order on the page

Please scroll down for

1. German Ethnic Events
2. German Klubs / Organizations In the KC Area
3. German Klubs / Organizations In Other Cities Close by
4. German Food In the KC area
5. German Clothing
6. German Books
7. NEW - German Design
8. NEW - German Movies
9. German Bands, Dancers and Singers
.........Need a ENTERTAINMENT for your Wedding or Party?
10. German Passport / Visa Information
11. What do the Feathers mean?!?
12. Why is Oktoberfest in September?!?
13. Final Goodbyes


Scroll around and check EVERYTHING out!

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Take a seat in Bavaria (video)

1. GERMAN ETHNIC EVENTS:

Ongoing - Social Gatherings at The Kansas City Bier Company, 310 West 79th Street, Kansas City, MO 64114; MAP; whenever you can - get there! There may be signs reserving our tables. This will give you time to order a drink and/or food and settle down with your friends before the great music starts

CLICK ON KC Bier Company Events for the latest info.
  
LIVE MUSIC: with Bram and Jürgen aka "Polka on Steroids"
Authentic German music
Bram Wijnands, a world-renowned slide piano jazz musician (he also plays the accordian), is from Holland. Jürgen Welge, on Drums, is a native of Germany who came to the US more than 20 years ago. They play regularly at the Majestic Jazz club downtown as a Jazz band "The Bram Wijnands Trio" (With another member)
**Wear tract, traditional ethnic cloths from your region if you have them. Let’s make it a fun festive occasion.
**This is a great event for those who cannot drive in the dark. We are thinking of you.
BIER: The bier is just like that of Munich, but American made and very fresh!
FOOD: "My first time there I had Weisswurst, White sausage. In Munich you can only get this in the morning. But, I had it here in the evening with mustard. If you have not eaten one, ask Steve or Juegen how to eat one." - Mel Miller
BUNDESLIGA SOCCER WATCHING: (plural: Bundesligen), meaning Federal League, is within several sports the name of top division in Austria and Germany: In English, the term most often refers to the top division of men's association football in Germany, the Bundesliga (full native name Fußball-Bundesliga), which has operated since 1963; KC Bier Company Events
KIDS ARE WELCOME: Playground equipment set up outside in the Biergarten.
STAMMTISCH: German Meetup groups occasionally meet; Become a member of this private group; Website


Ongoing - Learn to speak German - FREE!
Learn one of 30 languages, including German, using your Johnson County Library card! Best of all, it’s FREE! Click HERE or HERE
Stretch all of your language-learning muscles: listening, reading, writing and speaking! The Rosetta Stone Library Solution teaches through context clues rather than grammar and translation. Learn new material in core lessons, do activities to reinforce what you've learned, and wrap up units by chatting in a simulated conversation. Speech recognition gives you interactive feedback, plus your progress will sync across all of your devices!

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Through Mar 20-
AUSCHWITZ - Not long ago. Not far away. Union Station
For the first time, 75 years after the liberation of Auschwitz, a touring exhibition dedicated to the historical significance of the camp is being presented to a U.S. audience.
This exhibit goes to only 2 US cities. An international exhibition of unprecedented importance. A story to shake the conscience of the world - unparalleled opportunity to confront the singular face of human evil.
This groundbreaking exhibition brings together more than 700 original objects and 400 photographs from over 20 institutions and museums around the world; unionstation.org/event/auschwitz


Through Mar 21 - War Remains: An Immersive Memory, in the National WWI Museum and Memorial’s Memory Hall.
This is not a game. This is History. Live through the war to end all wars unlike ever before. an immersive virtual reality experience that sends visitors to the Western Front of the First World War. Stunning visual effects, powerfully designed sound and tactile elements transport the viewer into the trench during an active battle scene.
A solitary active, not passive, experience, allowing one user through approximately every 15 minutes. VR headsets and equipment are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized between users. Due to the graphic nature of the content, viewers must be at least 14 years of age; Tickets are $24 (Members $18); theworldwar.org/war-remains

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2. GERMAN KLUBS / ORGANIZATIONS in the KANSAS CITY AREA:

Germania Club
The Club presents KARNEVAL - The tradition in was initiated in 1967. THIS is the German version of Mardi Gras, which is unlike the French or Brazilian versions! Each Karneval season, the Elferaat (Council of Eleven) elects a PRINZ and PRINZESSIN (prince and princess - together they are called the Prinzenpaar.) It begins on November 11 (or the Saturday closest to the 11th) with a CORONATION Ball for the club's new Prinzenpaar. During this season, several TRIPS to other klubs in/and out of state are made by chartered bus or other means of transportation.
The Germania Club promotes close relations with German organizations in other communities. We have been pleased to exchange visits with sister clubs in St. Louis, Chicago, Topeka, Wichita, Omaha, Tulsa and Houston, as well as in Germany. Karneval culminates with MASKENBALL a grand masquerade ball in Kansas City on the Saturday before Ash Wednesday.
In addition to great DANCING music, entertainment at the balls is provided by the hilarious ELFERRAT / MANNERBALLET (imagine men in tights doing ballet?) and the funloving SOFISTICATED OMAS (grandmas). Ambassadors from other clubs and the Blauen Elfen (Blue Elves) are always around to help.
The Royal Entourage includes Court Jesters, Adjutanten and Hofdamen (Adjutants and Ladies-in-waiting) and a Hofmarshall (Lord) to lead the entrance parade where the beads fly! Orden (medals) of The Prinzenpaar are bestowed to guests. The attire is exquisite and fabulous!
The William E. Gruening Award is presented annually to an American born person who distinguishes himself through continued, significant contributions in the promotion of German culture, heritage and traditions in the United States of America.
The club also sponsors DINNERS, DANCES, classes to LEARN GERMAN, KNIT, CROCHET, explore GENEALOGY and maybe an occasional GAME NIGHT.
The club also participates in Kansas City's annual Ethnic Festival, and has participated in the annual Snake Saturday Parade in North Kansas City.
New members are always welcome. All that is required is an interest in German culture and customs, a willingness to participate and a desire to have fun! A regular monthly newsletter is sent by mail to all members and inform them of club events and other matters of interest.
Our goal: To promote consciousness and appreciation for the German heritage, to further the social interests of its members and to create a strong bond of friendship among the members.
Yearly dues are $30.00/single person and $50.00/family, payable June 1. Make checks payable to Germania Club of Kansas City and mail to Germania Club of Kansas City, P.O. Box 2582, Shawnee Mission, Kansas 66201; Various activities sponsored by Germania Klub may have additional fees; Please feel free to ask questions! www.germaniakc.org; Facebook Page
Club President, Roger Abbott: TheresadinRodger@gmail.com
The Directors for the Board for 2014-2016 are John Driscoll, Anita Johnson, Stan Loughery, Karola Luckett, Inge Richter, and Helga Theoharis.
KARNEVALS GESELLSCHAFT (KG) (translated = carnival society) consists of 5 groups:
The Elferaat (Council of Eleven) - The purpose of the Elferaat is to perpetuate Karneval (Fasching, Mardi Gras) in the community and to establish and maintain relationships with other organizations with similar goals. The Elferaat is responsible for the establishment and maintenance of Karnival traditions within the scope and guidelines established by the Board of Directors
The Blauen Elfen - current members of the Club and will assist the other Karnevals Gesellschaft groups as called upon to ensure the Karneval Season is as productive as possible
The Ambassadors - current members of the Club who live in other cities and are to help spread the fun of Kansas City Karneval throughout the Heartland
The Prinzengarde - past Prinzen and Prinzessin who will make themselves available to the current Prinzenpaar as advisors to ensure the continuation of Karneval taditions and procedures
The Mannerballet - Maennerballet will be current members of the Club and will honor the current Prinzenpaar's reign by presenting a dance/performance at their Maskenball
KG dues are due and payable by November 1, 2013. To be in the KG, you must have paid your Member and KG dues by Coronation
Dues are $25.00/single person and $40.00/couple.
Make checks payable to Germania Club Of Kansas City. Note on the check: KG Dues
Mail to Germania Club of Kansas City, P. O. Box 2582, Shawnee Mission, Kansas 66201; Barbara Will: (913) 492-3725; bwont@everestkc.net;
Elferrat Leader Hank Stitt: 816.303.9936; hstitt@sls-law.com
The Germania Klub event space is at The American Legion Hall, 7500 West 75th Street, Overland Park, Kansas; Map; In the spring of 2013 the Klub moved from the location it had previously used since November 4, 1994 (in North Kansas City)
This new location gives our organization a considerably larger social and cultural meeting place. Dinners and various other activities will be held at this location and are open to all members as well as members of the American Legion. The American Legionnaires are enjoying partnering with Germania and we are enjoying them as well; Go to their website http://kspost370.org/ to check out, enjoy, support and participate in some of their other functions.Click here for more pictures of the event space

The German American Citizens Association (GACA)
The Club presents dance parties, which are an excellent entertainment value, with several hours of German and popular dance music performed by a band. Often these dances have a theme, such as Kappenabend (crazy hat dance), Oktoberfest, Weinfest and a New Years Eve Party. Food is usually available, catered by a business with knowledge of German food preparation.

In the spring, the Club has a Maifest
In the summer the Club has a Picnic and Schuetzenfest for members and guests. There is entertainment and contests for adults and children. Prizes are awarded, along with lots of food and drink. The club takes part in the August Ethnic Enrichment Festival, which is sponsored by the City of Kansas City, MO.
In the fall, we have Kristkindlmarkt which is the Christmas Craft Fair.
A particular favorite is our annual Children’s Christmas Party where they are encouraged to sing or display a special talent. Saint Nikolaus visits this event, and his bag of stockings filled with surprises.
From time to time the GACA sponsors a visit by groups or a bands from Germany who come to share their talents and experience America.
The Ladies Auxiliary meets monthly to socialize as well as plan and conduct fund raisers for charitable contributions to Truman Medical Center East.
Officers are elected at the annual General Membership Meeting in November. The President chairs monthly Board Meetings all year to conduct the business of the Club. These Board Meetings are open to all members. A regular monthly newsletter is sent by mail to all members and inform them of club events and other matters of interest.
Yearly membership dues are $25.00 per family and $20.00 for singles. GACA is a Tax Exempt/NonProfit Organization. Various activities sponsored by GACA may have additional fees. Click to access our Membership form for you to print, fill in the information and mail it
Please feel free to contact any GACA member for additional information; Patté Klaus Schreihofer, president: 816-331-3184, 816-560-6666; pklausschreihofer@yahoo.com; Mel Miller: 816 444-4224; mpmiller7@kc.rr.com; www.gacaofkc.org


The Kansas City Turners...The oldest German Club in Kansas City Founded February 14, 1858 with the motto of: "A Sound Mind In A Sound Body"
ATHLETIC ACTIVITIES: Adult Bowling league, Tumbling and Dance for children; Dance recitals; Dinner/dances; Pool Parties
MENTAL ACTIVITIES: Texas Hold 'em Poker Tournaments; Monthly Poker Game Night; chess matches, online games
SOCIAL ACTIVITIES: Sunday NFL Watch Parties; NASCAR Watch Parties;
KC Turners is a family-oriented social organization, which is looking to grow its membership, and we would love to have you and your family.
It is easy to become a member. Currently there are no fees to join the Kansas City Turners, but all KC Turners members have to belong to the American Turners.
Yearly dues for the American Turners are $25.00 per family and due by Jan. 31 each year. Various activities sponsored by KC Turners may have additional fees. To join the American Turners, contact Jean Zarker, membership chair: 816-373-0986; zarkerjean@aol.com; www.americanturners.com; National Office: 1127 E. Kentucky St. PO Box 4216 Louisville, KY 40204, (502) 636-2395
References:
American Turners Records, 1853-2004
The Fourth of July in Early Kansas 1858-1861
American Turners Local Societies, 1866-2006
Kansas City Turner Society (Socialer Turnverein) Records

German American Edelweiss Society, A social club that holds a meeting once a year to schedule events Yearly dues are $15.00 per family and $10.00 per single with a one time $10 initiation fee Various activities sponsored by the club may have additional fees No clubhouse, but some of their events take place at: St Mary's-St Anthony's Church 615 N 7th St, Kansas City, KS 66101; MAP;
German-American Edelweiss Society (GAES) Membership Dues for 2019
Memberships may be renewed at the April Dance (April 27, 2019) or send to: Janet Roberts, 12803 Sloan Ave., Kansas City, KS 66109
Please make checks payable to German-American Edelweiss Society or GAES
For New and Returning Members:
Individual Membership (Yearly) - $10 Family Membership (Yearly) - $15; Facebook Page; Website

German American Club of Shawnee
The purpose of the Shawnee German-American Club is to promote a consciousness and appreciation for the German heritage, to further the social interests of its members, and to create a bond of friendship among the members. The Club’s functions include social and community activities and is open to all persons willing to support the German-American Club’s purpose. The Club is neutral in matters of politics and religion and was founded in June, 2003.
Shawnee German-American Club hosts the Shawnee Octoberfest on the first Friday of October. The club supports the Shawnee Sister City and their German sister city of Erfurt. The Club also takes part in the annual Ethnic Enrichment Festival, which is sponsored by the City of Kansas City, MO in August. From time to time the club sponsors a visits by groups or bands from Germany who come to share their talents and experience America.
For any dancers, the Blautaler Schuhplattlers, an affiliated group, welcome anyone interested in taking up German folk dancing; www.blautaler.org
Officers are elected at the annual General Membership Meeting in November. The President chairs monthly Membership meetings to conduct the business of the Club. All club members and guest are welcome to attend.
Annual membership dues are $25.00 per family and $20.00 for singles. We have special dues for current college students under 25 years old of $5.00; For information on joining the Shawnee German-American Club contact Ken Sherfey: 913-631-6811; klskms@aol.com; www.shawneegermanclub.org; Facebook Page

UMKC German Club There aren't any club fees, but in order to be a member, you must be a UMKC student; Michael J. Stobaugh: mjszp4@mail.umkc.edu; UMKC German Club Website; Facebook - UMKC German Studies

Hannover-Kansas City Sister Cities: The Sister City Association of Kansas City is an international citizen’s diplomatic organization. We support and promote cooperation and understanding for innovative programs in commerce, tourism, education, and cultural awareness. - Hannover, Germany, is represented in Kansas City by the Hannover Committee of the Sister City Association of KC; Website; chaired by Traute Kohler, Ph.D.: tkohler@ku.edu

Ethnic Enrichment Commission
4600 East 63rd. Street Trafficway, Kansas City, MO 64130
816-513-7553; Ethnic.Enrichment.Commission@kcmo.org ; http://eeckc.org/



The Kansas City German
Language Meetup Group:, Founded: Feb 17, 2006 Membership dues:  $5.00 per year; Ute: cutieute@yahoo.com; KC German Language Meetup Group
• If you live in the Kansas City area or surrounding towns, we would love to have you join our group!
• Meet and mingle with fellow German Speakers near you!
• Come to a German Language Meetup to practice speaking, build vocabulary and finally figure out those verb conjugations!
• All ages and levels willkommen!
• The meetings of this group will be tailored to all who learned German at some point and would like to keep it up.
BECOME A MEMBER!!

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3. GERMAN KLUBS / ORGANIZATIONS in OTHER CITIES CLOSE BY:


Lawrence, Kansas
German School Of Northeast Kansas (GSNEKS)
, Bishop Seabury Academy, Reese Hall, 4120 Clinton Parkway, Lawrence, Kansas 66047; MAP; The mission is to create a German-speaking community in which children and adults experience "Sprachvergnügen," the joy of learning German, through a variety of age-appropriate learning activities in a friendly and supportive environment; accepts students from pre-school age through adulthood; Michael G. Windheuser, Ph.D., Executive Director; mwindheuser@gmail.com; 785.218.9700; www.lawrencegermanschool.org

Topeka, Kansas
The German American Club of Topeka (GACOT)
, 5715 SW 21st St, Topeka, Kansas (Lawyer's Title of Topeka Inc.); MAP; gacottopeka@gmail.com; Facebook Page
YEARLY MEMBERSHIP DUES are $15 a year
We are a local group of German Americans promoting and passing on the German traditions of our families here in Topeka, Kansas
If any one is interested in German American Club of Topeka, we have our meeting every first Thursday of each month. All are welcome to come! Meetings are at Lawyer's Title of Topeka Inc.
The Board meets first at 6pm
General meeting at 7pm
There will be no meeting in December. We will meet again in January.

Omaha, Nebraska
German-American Society of Omaha, Nebraska
, Clubhaus, 3717 South 120th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68144; Map; (402) 333-6615; germansoc@msn.com; Facebook Page; www.germanamericansociety.org

St. Louis, Missouri
The St. Louis-Stuttgart Sister Cities, Inc. (SLSSC) organization
; Susanne Evens: sevens@aaatranslation.com; 636-530-1010; www.slssc.org

St. Louis, Missouri
The German Cultural Society of St. Louis
, 3652 S Jefferson Ave St Louis, MO 63118; dedicated to the preservation and advancement of the German culture, customs, and language; (314) 771-8368; www.germanstl.org

Chicago, Illinois
The German American National Congress, also known as DANK
(Deutsch Amerikanischer National Kongress), 4740 N. Western Avenue, Suite 206, Chicago, IL 60625; the largest organization of Americans of Germanic descent; 773-275-1100; toll free: 888-USA-DANK; fax: 773-275-4010; office@dank.org; Facebook Page; www.dank.org
Actively works to preserve German culture, heritage and language in the United States. It is our aim to inspire people with Germanic heritage and those interested in German cultures and language to recognize and celebrate the culture in a number of exciting ways.
We always love to hear from our members or people interested in learning more about DANK. Feel free to contact our National Office in Chicago as we would love to hear from you.

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4. GERMAN FOOD/BIER in the KC area:


(in alphabetical order)

Affäre, 1911 Main St, Kansas City, MO 64108; MAP; German, Seafood; Master Chef Martin Heuser from Bonn, Germany, competed at the Culinary Olympics in Erfurt, Germany, where he earned a Bronze Medal; a contemporary german restaurant - modern german cuisine; small plates and appetizers; all natural, farm fresh, seasonal food, supporting local producers as much as possible; (816) 298-6182; www.affarekc.com
Parking is available in the Felco Printing Parking Lot located 1/2 block east of Main Street between 19th and 20th Street.
Every Wednesday is Wine Night! Taste some new and exciting wines every Wednesday from 5pm - 7pm at no cost.
Every Monday night is Industry Night! - 25% off for our co-workers in the restaurant industry!
Monday - Thursday - 11:15 - 22:00
Friday 11:15 - 23:00
Saturday 17:00 - 23:00
Happy Hour
Monday - Thursday 15:00 - 19:00
Friday -Saturday 21:00 - 23:00

André's
In addition to offering top of the line chocolates and pastries, Andre's also serves gourmet lunches at it's two restaurant locations in the Kansas City area. Come experience a 50 year old Kansas City tradition in fine dining; www.andreschocolates.com
Andre's Tearoom in KCMO
5018 Main Street, Kansas City, MO 64112; MAP
Tele: (816) 561-6484, or Toll-free 1-800-892-1234
Fax: (816) 561-2922
Lunch Hours:
11:00 - 2:30
Coffee, tea & pastries served before & after lunch until 4:00
Store Hours:
Tuesday - Friday 8:30 - 5:30
Saturday 8:00 - 5:00
Open Mondays Thanksgiving through New Year's
Andre's Rivaz Tearoom in OPKS
4929 West 119th Street,Overland Park, KS 66209; MAP
Tele: 913-498-3440
Fax: 913-498-3442Lunch Hours:
11:00 - 2:30
Coffee, tea & pastries served before
& after lunch until 4:00
Store Hours:
Monday thru Friday: 10:00 to 5:30
Saturday: 10:00 to 5:00

Beethoven's 9th Restaurant, 2 W Piankishaw St, Paola, KS 66071; MAP; Homestyle German fare in a colorful, relaxed space with high-ceilings, folk art & a patio; 913-294-3000; beethovens9.com
For over twenty years, Beethoven’s #9 has been more than just a German restaurant for people, we’ve been a family. Owned and operated by mother daughter duo Jeanie and Linzi, all of our food is cooked just like your grandmother would make it!
VIEW OUR MENU
THIRSTY THURSDAY SPECIAL
$2.00 off our schnitzels.
After 4pm, all of our German Beers are $3.00, and Draft Beers are $1.00 off.
We are open:
Thursday: 11:00am – 8:00pm
Friday: 11:00am – 8:30pm
Saturday: 11:00am – 8:30pm
Sunday: 11:00am – 6:00pm


Bier Station, 120 E. Gregory Boulevard, Kansas City, MO 64114; MAP; 816-548-3870; info@bierstation.com; http://bierstation.com/
HOURS OF OPERATION
Monday - Thursday: 11am-11pm
Friday - Saturday: 11am-Midnight
Sunday: Noon-8pm
We're here to share our love of beer, not judge. That's why we call ourselves "Beer Enthusiasts," not "Beer Snobs," and it's reflected in all we do. It's why we love to match draft beers to people's individual tastes and gladly hand out a sample to make sure you're happy with your selection. When you're grabbing a 6-pack to-go or a bottle to enjoy in The Station, we feature detailed information on our shelf labels, so you can be an informed brew shopper. Most importantly, we hope it's evident when you experience in person the chill vibe we strive for, meet all our fantastic customers and see why they come back. Everyone has a place at Bier Station and we hope you'll join us too.
We'll save a seat for you at the bar.
Prost!
ON TAP
28 rotating taps
Dedicated session and sour/wild ale taps
Proper glassware
BEER TO-GO
Large mix six-pack selection
Fresh inventory rotation
Bottles to enjoy "Here" or "To-Go"
MENU
Locally sourced whenever possible
Handmade bratwurst by James Beard Award finalist chef
Soft pretzels, rustic sandwiches, cheese & charcuterie
EVENTS
Social media event participation
Tap invasions
Friday firkins & inline flavor infusions



PERMANENTLY CLOSED Jan 21, 2017 - Dietrichês Modern German Cuisines and Biergarten, 1313 NE Douglas Road, Lee’s Summit, MO 64086; www.dietrichsrest.com; Facebook Page
Keep checking back as you may soon find us at a new location in the future!




Grünauer, at the Freight
House, 101 West 22nd Street, Kansas City, MO 64108; MAP; 816.283.3234; www.grunauerkc.com
Mon-Thur 11:30am - 10pm
Fri & Sat 11:30am - 11pm
Sun 11:30am - 9pm
Wünderbar 11:30am - 1am
Happy Hour 3-6pm & 10pm - Close


The Kansas City Bier Company, 310 West 79th Street, Kansas City, MO 64114; MAP; (816) 214-8691; kcbier.com
Engage in the traditional German communal bier drinking experience in the outdoor biergarten and sample traditional German bier styles in our tasting room. Enjoy traditional German sausages, cheeses and breads that compliment our variety of German bier styles served in appropriate glassware.
An outdoor oasis on the historic Trolley Trail in Waldo will be Kansas City’s newest summer destination. Our biergarten will offer a chance to taste tradition german bier right in “their own back yard.”
Biergartens originated in Southern Germany and are still common there.  Come visit and discover for yourself how we put the i back in bier; open as long as the Missouri weather cooperates, usually from May-October.
Prost!
WHAT WE BREW
The Kansas City Bier Company brews authentic German beer styles from imported German malts and hops using traditional German brewing methods. Our beers are unpasteurized and unfiltered to deliver maximum flavor and freshness.
HELLES
“Helles” means “light or bright”, which refers to the beer’s pale color; a golden, Munich-style lager,
HEFE-WEIZEN
“Hefe” means yeast and “Weizen” means wheat; an unfiltered-wheat ale that still contains the yeast.
DUNKEL
“Dunkel” means dark; copies the traditional brown Munich lager that was the most widely drunk beer in Bavaria at the turn of the 20th Century; made from amber colored Munich malt. Germans approach dark beer from a different direction than their Belgian and British neighbors.
SEASONAL OFFERINGS
WEIZENBOCK
A pale Doppel wheat bock similar in taste to our Hefeweizen, but with intensified flavors and body to the higher starting gravity
HOPFEN DOOF
Hopfen Doof means “hop stupid”; American interpretation of a high gravity German Alt; we have given it the designation – Double Alt. Alt means “old” and refers to the old style of warm, top-fermenting beers (i.e., ales) that were predominant before cold, bottom-fermenting lagers became the predominant beer style in Germany. Our yeast strain comes from Dusseldorf, the epicenter of Alt brewing.
Mon-Closed
T-F - 4 to 11
Sat - 11 to 11
Sun - 12 to 7




PERMANENTLY CLOSED:
Rheinland Restaurant, 208 N Main St, Independence, MO 64050; MAP; Authentic German Cuisine! (816) 461-5383; http://rheinlandrestaurant.com/
"I'm full blooded german and I can say this is the best german food I've had in the states." - customer comment

Werner's Specialty Foods (Meats, Sausages, Catering and Deli), 5736 Johnson Drive, Mission, KS 66202; MAP; Fax 913-362-5955; wernerswurst@yahoo.com; www.wernerswurst.com
Open
Monday 9am-2pm
Tuesday - Friday 9am-6pm
Saturday 9am-5pm
Closed Sunday


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5. GERMAN CLOTHING:


Bergland Trachten
547 E Grand Ave. Ste 5, PO Box 52
Haysville, KS, USA, 67060
316-522-0019; www.berglandtrachten.com

Bavarian Superstore; www.bavarian-superstore.de

German Fashions: International Fashions by Ingrid
4710 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60625; Get directions; (773) 878-8382; www.fashionsbyingrid.com

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6. GERMAN BOOKS:


Opa and Me, Written by Kevin Donovan, a member of the German American Cultural Society of Rhode Island; the first in a series. Publication Date: March 23, 2013
The next in the series, "Opa and Me Go To The Zoo" will be published early this summer;
For ages 3-9... Two best friends: a little girl and her German grandfather. Opa loves his granddaughter and enjoys sharing all things German with her, especially the German's favorite pastime of going for a good walk. The little girl loves her Opa and really enjoys their long walks together along with Opa's German mini-lessons:
"Opa tries to teach me German; A new word every day; Today the word is weiss; The color of the Schnee"; She wants to let her Opa know that the time they spend together is very special to her... but she's just not sure how to say it.; Now available at Amazon.com

FREEDOM-A JOURNEY OF THE HEART
by Annemarie Timmons
Keynote speaker, storyteller and musician; has inspired audiences with stories of starting over again and again, realizing every moment is a new opportunity. How to discover, develop and nurture your own hidden untapped potential, is Annemarie's life lesson. Years of experiencing life in a free world caused her to realize that true freedom is awakening to an inner path. Greater understanding of ourselves precedes acceptance of people around us.
Annemarie speaks from the experience of starting over again and again,
including what it was like to:
• Move from foster home to foster home
• Escape from the communist sector of Germany
• Start over in the American sector of Germany
• Create a new life in the United States at 21 years old
• Learn to read and write English along with her 5 children
• Work nights as a waitress, tending to her children’s needs by day
• Become single after 35 years of marriage
• Entertain audiences with music for 40+ years

GERMANIA COOKBOOKS
Back by popular request, we have received a new printing of the Germania Club Cookbooks.
These Germania Cookbooks make an excellent gift for friends and relatives that will be enjoyed for years.
How about a copy for you?
To obtain copies of the Cookbook, contact
Chrissy Stambaugh: (816) 929-5195; chrissyrichter84@yahoo.com

Do you like to read stories, travel to other countries through reading?
Eilhard Becker has a lot of very interesting German Books for your enjoyment. If you are interested and would like to find out about these books, give Eilhard a call (913) 268-6550

Endearing Ruins/Liebenswerte Ruinen, by Walter Bargen: It is bilingual in German and English. Unfortunately, it’s not really available in this country. It’s published in Germany. If anyone might be interested in purchasing a copy, they can go to Walter's website: www.walterbargen.com and order it there. It’s $18.00 which includes postage

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7. GERMAN DESIGN:


The Bauhaus Movement Turns 100, considered one of the most influential art movements of the 20th century
Combining FORM and FUNCTION; School slogan "Art Into Industry."
Named after the Bauhütten, or masons' lodges
• In 1919, architect Walter Gropius founded the school in Weimar. It remained there until 1925, when it moved to Dessau. It was forced out of Dessau after the Nazis became the dominant political force in the city. It moved to Berlin in 1932 and remained opened only until April 1933, when it officially dissolved under pressure from the Nazi regime.
• In 1937, László Moholy-Nagy created the New Bauhaus in Chicago. The school, which remains open, has since been renamed the IIT Institute of Design.
• The Bauhaus curriculum is still being taught in art schools around the world.
1923 - Door Knob by Walter Gropius
1925 - Lub Chair or The Wassily Chair; Artist: Marcel Breuer
1927 - Teapot and Tea Infuser; Artist: Marianne Brandt
1929 - Barcelona Chair by Mies van der Rohe and Lilly Reich











Bauhaus inspired architecture:
















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8. GERMAN MOVIES:


SOPHIE SCHOLL-THE FINAL DAYS (2005) (Full Film)
1:55:50
In German with English subtitles

The true story of Germany’s most famous anti-Nazi heroine is brought to life in the multi-award winning drama. Sophie, her brother Hans, and their friend Cristoph had the faith and fortitude to stand against the Nazi regime at the height of its power during WWII.
Sophia Scholl was a German student, active in the White Rose – a non-violent resistance group to Hitler and the Nazi party. In 1943, she was caught delivering anti-war propaganda and, with her brother Hans Scholl, was executed for high treason.

Film awards: The movie received three Lolas (German Oscars) including the Audience Award and Best Actress Award to Julia Jentsch for her brilliant characterization of the title role. The film also won two Silver Bears for Best Director and Best Actress at the 2005 Berlin International Film Festival.
2006 Academy Award Nominee for Best Foreign Language Film
List of Nominations and Awards
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0426578/awards?ref_=tt_awd


EDELWEISS PIRATES
1:36:34
In German with English subtitles (for subtitles click on cc)

The Edelweiss Pirates formed in the late 1930’s when teens that avoided membership in the Hitler Youth, a gender segregated organization, formed a loose association of male and female teens that rejected governmental intrusion into their lives.
Regional chapters sprang up, such as the Navajos, the Roving Dudes, and the Kittlebach Pirates.
Other government resisting German youth groups of World War II include the Swingjugend (Swing Youth, or Swing Kids) and the White Rose, two groups that had some cross relations with each other.
Edelweiss Pirate Background Info

HaDira - The Flat (2011 film German); Documentary
1:37:00
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X45W1-XFn_g
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5SkslJ5VC0k
At age 98, director Arnon Goldfinger's grandmother passed away, leaving him the task of clearing out the Tel Aviv flat that she and her husband shared for decades since immigrating from Nazi Germany in the 1930s. Sifting through a dense mountain of photos, letters, files, and objects, Goldfinger documents himself undertaking the arduous process of making sense of a lifetime's accumulation of possessions. In the process, he begins to uncover clues that seem to point to a greater mystery, and soon a complicated and shocking family history unfolds before his camera.
What starts to take shape is the troubled and taboo history of Goldfinger's grandparents' lives in Germany in the tumultuous and difficult years before World War II, and the unexpected yet inevitable ethical ambiguities and repressed emotions that arise when everyday friendships suddenly cross enemy lines. In this emotionally riveting documentary, Goldfinger follows the hints his grandparents left behind to investigate long-buried family secrets and unravel the mystery of their painful past.

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9. GERMAN BANDS, DANCERS & SINGERS:




Polka Band / Dancer / Singer List
(in alphabetical order)

Alpenrose Band
Josef Diethelm
300 White Street,
SE Watertown, MN 55388
952-955-2717
jodler@soncom.com www.alpenroseband.com
Excellent band, very entertaining

The Alpine Spielers
913-888-4706; Website
Plays midi accordion and specializes in ethnic music. Has alpine horn player; Likes to get crowd involved


S. V. (Schuhplattler Verein) Blautaler
Kansas City's Original German Dancers

www.blautaler.org
Authentic traditional dances and clothing including lederhosen, Hats with feather and the ladies in beautiful dirndls (dresses) Shoe, thigh, hand slapping Alpine dances Shows feature alpine bells, woman "flying", musical saw, yodeling as well as the familiar intricate figure dances where the men Novelty dances: bench dance, miner's dance, whips, stick dance, maypole.

Bram Wijnands and Jürgen Welge
aka "Polka on Steroids"
and as a Jazz band "The Bram Wijnands Trio" (With another member)
bwijnands@kc.rr.com
Bram Wijnands, a world-renowned slide piano jazz musician (he also plays the accordian), is from Holland. Jürgen Welge, on Drums, is a native of Germany who came to the US more than 20 years ago.
SCHEDULE
They are currently (as of May 2017) playing regularly at:
Saturday and Sunday afternoons, 3-5pm at The Kansas City Bier Company, 310 West 79th Street, Kansas City, MO 64114 as the Polka on Steroids
Friday and Saturday, 7-11pm at the Majestic Restaurant as the Bram Wijnands Trio
REVIEWS
"I first saw this band when we, the The Blautaler Schuhplattler of Kansas City, performed at the KC Bier Oktoberfest last year. The bandleader, Bram, is tall and slender, wore loose farmers’ bib overalls. I was surprised as I know all the ethnic bands in the area, but not this one. After listening I was astounded how great they played. These farmers fresh off the field or so I thought. The trio (with David Chael) does this for fun." - Mel Miller
"Jürgen Welge who is probably one of the best drummers in KC." - Tony's Kansas City

Brian McCarty Band
1200 SW Madison Lee's Summit, MO 64081
816-246-0895
www.kcpolkas.com
Good beat for dancers and has loyal following

Don Lipovac Orchestra
1840 North 41st Terrace
Kansas City, KS 66102
913-287-2081 ~ or try
8004 Arcadia Court
Kansas City, KS 66112
(913) 299-2792
Can play a wide variety of music; Has loyal following; Other polka band leaders and musicians across American hold Don in high respect. U. S. Accordion Champion in 1958 and represented U.S. in Brussels, Belgium at the World's Fair. Polka Hall of Fame Award in 1992 at Iron World in Chisholm, Minnesota; Slovenian, Croatian, Ballroom, etc

Ed Grisnik
913-299-4795
Croatian band and plays variety

Die Festhaus-Musikanten
Gary Richmond
913-432-2851
www.festhausmusikanten.com
German style brass band dedicated to the performance of German folk music authentic polkas, marches, waltzes, schottisches, and landlers playlist includes Rosamunde (Beer Barrel Polka), In München steht ein Hofbräuhaus, Liechtensteiner Polka, Schneewalzer and many more music from Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Czechoslovakia

The Happy Wanderers
913-661-2592
HappyWanderersMusic@gmail.com
www.happywanderersmusic.com
We're a German band that plays traditional and some not-so-traditional songs from the beer hall, beer garden and all around Germany, Austria and Switzerland. Oompah, waltzes, and marches? Sure! But there are some familiar tunes that fit the occasion as well.
Most of our arrangements are customized for our ensemble, so we always have a full sound that keeps the audience happy, engaged and entertained. Do you need a specific song for your event? Tell us. With enough lead time we can likely create an arrangement for your event.
Our usual lineup includes a tuba, euphonium, tenor sax, alto/soprano sax and clarinet, but we mix things up once in a while.

The Kansas City Liederkranz Singers
www.kcliederkranz.org
Chairman/Director
Elfriede Jass, 7621 Englewood
Raytown,MO 64138
816-358-4056
Saaleelf@sbcglobal.net
Secretary
Cindy Pearson
9900 Johnson Dr.
Merriam, KS 66203
913- 262-2291 (Home)
PearsonRR@aol.com
A small informal group of about 20 people who get together for the love of singing their native songs.
The singers belong to the North American Singers Association, which includes German people from all over the United States who get together every 3 years for a songfest. At the songfests about 3,000 voices are joined together to sing their songs "from the heart". The Liederkranz Singers also belong to the Missouri Singing Society and participate in their Annual Singing Fest in Cole Camp, Missouri. They have become a part of the Holiday Tradition at Strawberry Hill Museum in Kansas City, Kansas

Die Lustigen Musikanten
Terry and Marilyn Loehnig
20 Scharnhorst Lane,
McKittrick, MO 65041
573-486-2108
Native Germans; Authentic clothing; Yodels Excellent Buttonbox player, their nephew, now in his twenties, had recordings when a teenager. Ask if he will be playing

Matthias Wagner
Work: 816-679-1004
Native German; Plays everything; Tunes into audience and observes their reaction to the music to see what they like. Plays to the crowd. Plays keyboard and sings; sounds like a small band; Also a composer.


The Naggabazis...They live in Germany... and well worth the air-fare!
website: www.noggabazis.de
email: Josef "Sepp" Pielmeier sepp@noggabazis.de
Anton Tony Multerer done@noggabazis.de
Hans Korherr hanse@noggabazis.de

Pat Auberry Band
Pat or Anna Auberry
3812 Secluded Meadow Dr.
Byrnes Mill, MO 63051
636-677-2621
4 piece; Excellent sound; Guitar

THE SQUEEZEBOX BAND (Polka)
Featuring Ted Lange & Mollie B (Mollie Busta); With a repertoire of over 600 songs
solid vocals in English, Polish, German and Czech
Able to play "something for everyone"; As of May 2014, they have made over 600 appearances in 23 states.
MOLLIE B BIO
Mollie B was born in Dubuque, Iowa, grew up in Spring Grove, Minnesota in a musician’s family with versatility on several instruments, talented vocals, announces, and dances with members of the audience. She has fans in over 25 states and eleven countries.
The Mollie B Polka Party is on RFD (Rural Free Delivery) channel 297 on Time Warner/Spectrum or FIND RFD IN YOUR AREA two evenings a week, Wednesday at 6:30pm ET and Saturday at 10:00pm ET. Each TV show will have portions of different locations and different bands; Couples dancing have their own unique style - You may recognize the regulars! It currently airs in over 55 million homes
The show will soon be available on Farm and Ranch TV, a streaming network that can be viewed on all devices linked to the internet.
➤ In 2017, Wisconsin Public Television released the documentary called "POLKA!" Mollie is the host of this 90-minute long documentary about
celebrating life with polka music in the state of Wisconsin.
Featured in the Clint Eastwood movie "The Mule." In 2018, Mollie B appeared as “Mollie B” in a scene of the Warner Brothers movie, “The Mule,” directed and starring Clint Eastwood. In this scene Mollie plays piano, trumpet, sings, has one line, and dances with Clint Eastwood.
➤ The new Toby Keith music video, “Don’t Let the Old Man In,” used clips from the movie. Clint Eastwood, several dancers, and Mollie B made it into one of those clips.


UFF-DA
Mark Karasek
815 N 35 St, Omaha, NE
402-551-8106 or 402-932-8107
Stan Galli
5130 S. 20th St. or 8042 Maywood St.
Omaha, Nebraska 68017-2929
Omaha, NE 68127-3730
Musicians Mark Karasek and Stan Galli have put together a polka band that blends favorite ethnic songs with a touch of hot sauce and a pinch of humor. After listening to this band you will proudly claim you have been - UFF-DAized; Excellent small band

Willie Kirst German Band
807 S. Turner Independence, MO 64056
816 796-8581
German Polka and Dance Band that performs a wide range of lively music-from Polkas to folk songs. They are considered one of the Best Midwest German bands and Willie was Bavarian born and raised; has been performing in and around the Kansas City area for parties and events for many years. Entertaining!



The alphorn or alpenhorn or alpine horn is a distinctively long horn instrument carved from solid softwood, generally spruce but sometimes pine and used by mountain dwellers in Switzerland and elsewhere. Similar wooden horns were used for communication in most mountainous regions of Europe, from the French Alps to the Carpathians. This is a footage of the World Record with 508 alphorn players on the Gornergrat, Switzerland. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p40JKimMINQ


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10. GERMAN PASSPORT / VISA INFORMATION:


To apply for a German Passport/Visa (Passport extensions are no longer possible): www.germany.info for fees and forms. Notarized copies of original forms accepted (except for expiring or expired passport)
Once you have all your information assembled, you can make an appointment with Consul Snyder.
Rolf D. Snyder-German Consulate in Kansas City
To make an appointment:
www.germanconsulkc.clickbook.net
8014 State Line Road, Leawood KS
Tel: 913-642-5134; Fax: 913-642-5348
GermanConsulKC@gmail.com
Districts: The state of Kansas and counties of Buchhanan, Cass, Clay, Jackson and Platte in Missouri; ALSO, the area of jurisdiction of the Chicago Consulate General

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11. What do the Feathers mean?!?


It's a Karneval tradition - and a parody of the aristocracy. They come from an african variety of pheasant - and are very expensive! Please do not fold, spindle or mutilate! You will see lots of them at Karneval festivities...The Prinz wears 3, a past prinz wears 1, a past prinz who holds an elected office in the klub wears 2


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12. Why is Oktoberfest in September?!?


The question is asked every year, and the answer is marriage. Royal marriage.

The first Oktoberfest was held in the year 1810 in honor of the Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig's marriage to Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen. The celebration lasted a full week. The Royal Wedding was on October 12, 1810 and the festivities ended on October 17 with a horse race.
The citizens of Munich were invited to attend the festivities held on the fields in front of the city gates to celebrate the happy royal event. The fields have been named Theresienwiese ("Theresa's fields") in honor of the Crown Princess ever since, although the locals have since abbreviated the name simply to the "Wies'n".
The city fathers of Munich assumed responsibility for festival management in 1819, and it was decided that Oktoberfest be made an annual event. Later, it was lengthened to several weeks and the date pushed forward because days are longer and warmer at the end of September (Bavaria tends to get chilly in October). The horse race continued until 1960, and the agricultural show still exists today and is held every four years in the southern part of the festival grounds.
Münchner (Munich) Oktoberfest
Today, Germany's Oktoberfest is the largest festival in the world, with an international flavor characteristic of the 21th century: some 6 million visitors from all around the world converge on the Oktoberfest each year.
And since the Oktoberfest is still held on the Theresienwiese, the locals still refer to the event simply as the "Wies'n". So "welcome to the Wies'n" means nothing other than "welcome to the Oktoberfest"!
Oktoberfest traditionally starts in the third weekend in September and ends the first Sunday of October.

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13. Final Goodbyes


Harrison "Bud" Billy
MAY 2, 1941 ~ MAY 20, 2019 (AGE 78)
•  Harrison Billy, 78, passed from this life in St. Louis, Missouri May 20, 2019. Harrison was born May 2, 1941 to Martha Billy in Antlers, Oklahoma.
•  After graduation, He served in the United States Air Force. After being honorably discharged, Harrison moved to St. Louis, Missouri where he spent most of his life. He enjoyed traveling and seeing other countries. Among his favorites was France, Canada and Germany. Harrison learned about the German culture and enjoyed being a part of it that he later joined the German American Community in St. Louis, Missouri. He served as their secretary for many years. Harrison worked as an accountant his entire life and worked for the St. Louis Globe and for Pitzman's Surveying until his retirement.
•  Harrison was preceded in death by his mother: Martha Billy; sisters: Benita John, Janet Taylor; brothers: Clarence Billy and James Ben; along with 5 nephews.
•  He is survived by his sisters: Jean Middleton of Seagoville, Texas and Sue Barnett of Seminole, Oklahoma; Jimmy Jones, who was like a brother to Harrison; along with numerous other relatives and friends.
•  Memorial service for Harrison will be held 10 AM Saturday June 1, 2019 at the Serenity Funeral Service in Antlers, Oklahoma. Reverend Jimmy Jones will be officiating. Honorary pallbearers will be Johnny John, Clifford Barnett, Robert J. Taylor, Jonah Billy, John Baggs and the German American Community of St. Louis, Missouri. The Choctaw Singers will be providing the music and U.S. Air Force will be performing TAPS. Inurnment will follow at the Antlers City Cemetery.
Obituary

Lane Wyman
AUGUST 17, 1924 – MAY 10, 2019
PLAY TRIBUTE MOVIE
Lane Wyman, 94, passed away peacefully at his home in Olathe, Kansas on Friday, May 10, 2019.
•  Lane was born August 17, 1924 in St. Paul, Minnesota. After living in Minneapolis, Minnesota for his first 16 years, the family moved to Kansas City. He graduated from Paseo High School, after which he enlisted in the U.S. Army. He served with the 75th Infantry Division in the European Theater, including the Battle of the Bulge. He was extremely proud of being a member of the Greatest Generation.
In 1946, Lane married Shirley Hurelbrink who preceded him in death in 2008 after 61 years of marriage. Lane and Shirley had a wonderful life together, including a second home at the Lake of the Ozarks where they entertained family and many friends. They took many trips abroad. They were very active in many aspects of the Lutheran Church, especially at Bethany and Atonement in Overland Park, KS. They were members of the Germania Club of KC and represented the club as Prinzenpaar in 1985-1986. Lane also served as President of the club for three years.
•  Lane had a long career as a manufacturer’s rep in the automotive business, retiring in 1989. He was known for his sharp wit, love of limericks (bawdy and otherwise), keen memory and could entertain a room of people with his anecdotes.
•  Lane was preceded in death by his wife Shirley, parents Claude and Doris and brother Winn. He is survived by daughters Kris Wyman and her husband Dr. Michael Dix, Pat Woelk and her husband Ron, Susan Sundby and her husband Paul. Grandchildren: Kirk Brown, Jeff Brown (Lois), Tom Ainsworth, Dr. Josh Woelk (Casey), Hanni Woelk, Dr. Annika Sundby. Great-grandchildren: Lily, Ella, Levi, Lane, Hugo, Oskar and a baby boy due in September. He is also survived by his faithful and loving companion, Lyn Ganzer and her three daughters Leslie, Heather and Stephanie. The family wishes to thank Phoenix Hospice for their loving care, especially Sara Smotherman, RN.
•  Visitation at 1:30pm followed by a Celebration of Life at 2:00pm on Saturday, June 8 at Mt. Moriah, Newcomer & Freeman Funeral Home, 10507 Holmes Road, Kansas City, Missouri.
•  In lieu of flowers, memorial contribution may be made in Lane’s name to: Honor Flight Network of Kansas City, PO Box 46718, Kansas City, MO 64188; honorflightkc.org or Metro Lutheran Ministries, 3031 Holmes Street, Kansas City, MO 64109; mlmkc.org.
•  FAMILY
Claude Wyman (deceased), Father
Doris Lane Wyman (deceased), Mother
Shirley (Hurelbrink) Wyman (deceased), Wife of 61 years
Winn Wyman (deceased), Brother
Kris Wyman, Daughter
Dr. Michael Dix, Son-in-law
Pat Woelk, Daughter
Ron Woelk, Son-in-law
Susan Sundby, Daughter
Paul Sundby, Son-in-law
Kirk Brown, Grandchild
Jeff (Lois) Brown, Grandchild
Tom Ainsworth, Grandchild
Dr. Josh (Casey) Woelk, Grandchild
Hanni Woelk, Grandchild
Dr. Annika Sundby, Grandchild
Lily, Ella, Levi, Lane, Hugo, Oskar & baby boy due in September, Great-grandchildren
Lyn Ganzer and her 3 daughters Leslie, Heather & Stephanie, Faithful & loving companion
Obituary

In Loving Memory of
Russell "Jack" Willbourn
1935 - 2019

Russell “Jack” Willbourn, 83, of Topeka, Kansas, passed away on Wednesday, January 23, 2019, at Atria Hearthstone Senior Living Community. He was born on June 16, 1935, in Topeka, the son of Russell J. and Alice Czirr Willbourn.

Russell graduated from Topeka High School, and studied engineering at Washburn University and the University of Kansas. He worked many years for the State of Kansas Department of Transportation, holding several positions including Supervisor of Accident Analysis and Statistics, Fiscal Manager of Federal Funding, and Manager of Federal Programs.


He also served on the Governor’s Child Safety Task Force, on several committees of the National Safety Council, the Traffic Records Committee, and as Chairman of the Data Users Committee. Additionally, he served on the Board of the Kansas Head and Spinal Cord Injury Association, Kansans for Traffic Safety, Traffic Safety for Older Adults, and Kansas Safe Kids. For his services he received the Governor’s Award of Merit, and recognition awards from the US Department of Transportation and Kansas MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving).

Russell was a US Army Veteran, serving during the 1950s with the 601st Field Artillery Missile Battalion, stationed principally in West Germany. There he met his future wife, Louise Gries, and they were married in the US on August 31, 1959. Both were active members of the Topeka German-American Club (Edelweiss Verein), where Russell served as ambassador of its Carnival society, as he also did for Kansas City’s Germania Club. In 2005, he was presented the William E. Gruening award for his significant contribution in the promotion of German heritage and traditions in the United States.

An avid sportsman and Dallas Cowboys fan, Russell, in his retirement loved NFL football on the weekends. He was equally fond of birdwatching. In his younger days he enjoyed playing golf and tennis, and participated in bowling leagues. He won a number of local Best Ball golf tournaments, and bowling and tennis trophies. He and Louise also were avid Bridge players, but the activity they were most passionate about was Polka dancing, which saw them traveling to events throughout the country.

Louise preceded him in death on November 20, 2017. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Merdith. Russell is survived by a son, Dr. Dieter K. Kuntz and his wife, Anne of Montgomery Village, Maryland; two grandchildren, Rudi Kuntz of London, England, and Emma Kuntz Jones (Jeffrey) of McLean, Virginia; one great-grandchild, Margaret Jones; and a cousin Colleen Winner, Etowah, Tennessee.

The family will receive friends during a visitation at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, January 28, 2019, at Mount Hope Cemetery & Funeral Chapel, 17th & Fairlawn. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow in Mount Hope Cemetery. The family will host a reception immediately following the graveside service.

Memorial contributions may be made to CAT Association, 1719 SW Gage Blvd, Topeka, KS 66604 or to Helping Hands Humane Society,5720 SW 21st St, Topeka, KS 66604.

Penwell-Gabel Mid-Town Chapel is handling arrangements.


In Loving Memory of
Louise J. Willbourn
1929 - 2017
Louise J. Willbourn, 87, of Topeka, Kansas, passed away on Monday, November 20, 2017 at a local hospital. She was born on December 27, 1929, in Zweibruecken, Germany, the daughter of Alfred and Emma (Bender) Gries.
•  Louise came of age during World War II in Germany and endured the hardships of life during the war, including evacuations, air raids and bombings, and injury and loss of family and friends. She attended primary, secondary, and business schools in Germany, where she acquired fluency in the English language. During the 1950s, Louise worked as a secretary for the U.S. military forces in Pirmasens, Germany. She met her future husband, Russell J. Willbourn, in 1957 in Zweibruecken, Germany where he was stationed as a young G.I. In 1959, she joined him in the United States, moving to his home in Topeka, Kansas. They were married on August 31, 1959.
•  After coming to the United States, Louise worked for many years as a bookkeeper at Topeka Mill and Elevator, Co., and later was employed in accounting by the Kansas Lottery. Louise was an active member of the German-American Club of Topeka, in which she served as an editor of the club’s newsletter, helped organize club functions, and enjoyed activities such as the club’s annual masquerade ball, Oktoberfest, and polka dances. Louise also took part in the Karneval (Mardi Gras) festivities of the Germania Club of Kansas City. Louise frequently spoke to local church and school groups about Germany, its culture, and her experiences during World War II. Louise loved animals and supported numerous animal welfare groups, not infrequently taking in or providing care for needy strays.
•  Louise is survived by her husband Russell of Topeka, Kansas. Other survivors include a son, Dr. Dieter K. Kuntz and his wife, Anne, of Montgomery Village, Maryland; two grandchildren, Rudi Kuntz of London, England, and Emma Kuntz Jones (Jeffrey) of McLean, Virginia; one great-grandchild, Margaret H. Jones; a niece, Gisela Groll of Remscheid, Germany and a nephew, Manfred Gries of Zweibruecken, Germany; and many other relatives in Germany.
•  In 2015, Louise and Russell moved to Atria Hearthstone senior living community. There, Louise easily befriended other residents and endeared herself to the staff thanks to her warm and bubbly personality. She quickly gained a reputation for her sense of style, sharp wit, and especially her silly jokes. According to her husband, Russell: “Sunshine followed her wherever she went.”
•  The family will receive friends during a visitation from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 26, 2017 at the Penwell-Gabel Mid-Town Chapel, 1321 SW 10th Avenue.
•  A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, November 27, 2017 at Mount Hope Cemetery, Funeral Chapel & Reception Center, 4700 SW 17th Street. Burial will follow in Mount Hope Cemetery. The family will host a reception in the chapel immediately following the graveside service.
•  Memorial contributions may be made to the CAT Association of Topeka, or to the Helping Hands Humane Society.
Obituary

Joseph D. Randolph
Mr. Joseph Daniel Randolph, age 82, of Grandview, MO went to be with his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, April 3, 2017, at St. Joseph Medical Center surrounded by his immediate family.
•  Joseph was born October 8, 1934 in Vernon, TX, the son of Floyd and Ida Mae Randolph. He was married on February 11, 1959, at St. Matthias Catholic Church in Trier, Germany, to Ute Randolph (Dühr). He enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving from 1955 to 1977 serving in Satellite Communications. He attained the rank of Technical (TSGT) Sergeant. He was a member of Coronation of Our Lady Catholic Church. He loved visiting with German friends and he sang with the Kansas City German Club Liederkranz Singers. He also enjoyed having breakfast with Ute at McDonalds and spending time talking with the locals there. He thoroughly loved watching his grandchildren and great-grandchildren participate in sporting and music events, plays, and was part of every milestone celebration. Most importantly he cherished his time with his family and friends.
•  He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Ute Angela Randolph (Dühr); two daughters: Diana Otto (Dale), and Irene Clements (Alan) of Jefferson City; two sons: Ted Randolph (Melissa) of Greenwood, and Tom Randolph (Carolyn) of Lee’s Summit; three sisters: Vivian Johnson of Fresno, CA; Martha Anderson, and Ruth Shepherd of Blackwell, OK; six grandchildren: Danielle Stammer (Andrew) of Jefferson City; Dalenna Giles (John) of Diamond; Brittany Schaben and Jonathan Clements of Jefferson City; Mekaela Mauzey and Taylor Randolph of Greenwood, MO; seven great-grandchildren: Emily, Ethan, Elise, and Emmett Stammer; Suzie and Annie Giles; and Eli Schaben. He was preceded in death by his parents Floyd and Ida; sister, Lois Ramsey and brother, David Randolph.
•  Visitation begins at 9:30am, Saturday, April 8, 2017, at Coronation of Our Lady Catholic Church at 13000 Bennington, Grandview, MO 64030; MAP
•  Mass of Christian Burial immediately following at 11:00am with Father Stephen Hansen officiating. Following Mass, the Graveside service and interment with full military honors will be conducted at Longview Cemetery at 12700 SE Raytown Rd, Kansas City, MO 64149; MAP
•  Flowers can be sent to the family at Coronation of Our Lady Catholic Church at 13000 Bennington, Grandview, MO 64030. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution in Dad’s honor to Coronation of Our Lady Catholic Church.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Longview Funeral Home. www.longviewfuneralhome.com.
Longview Funeral Home Obituary
Legacy Obituary

From Harrison Billy:
Safe journey my rock and partner.
Roy E. Leimberg
passed peacefully on October 22, 2016, at the age of 79. Survived by Harrison Billy and Carol Leimberg (nee Pelly); children Diane Watson (Steve), Carolyn Rooney (Jim), Robert (Kalen), Marybeth, Kathleen Garazin (Scott); 15 Grandchildren, 3 Great Grandchildren; brother to Gloria Zacher (Raoul), the late Carl (Annemarie); born to the late Fred W. Leimberg, Jr. and Elizabeth Leimberg-Reeff (nee Brach) nephew to the late Friedel Garza (nee Leimberg).
•  Roy will be remembered with a Brunch/Reception on Saturday, November 5, 2016, at the Deutscher Kulturverein Halle, 3652 S. Jefferson Ave., St. Louis, MO 63118 (MAP) from 1:00-4:00pm.
 In lieu of flowers, memorials to the St. Louis Family Resource Center or St. Louis-Stuttgart Sister Cities are requested.
•  A summary of Roy’s successful life and career:
He was born and raised in North St. Louis and lived his entire life in the City. His father and grandparents immigrated to St. Louis from Germany in 1928, under the sponsor–ship of the Krey Packing Company. Until the late 1950’s the family operated Leimberg’s German Style Sausage Company. His maternal grandfather, Wm. J. Brach, operated an Apothecary/Pharmacy at the corner of 14th and Market Street, where the Kiel Opera House now stands.
In February, 1955, he began working as a draftsman for Pitzman’s Company of Surveyors & Engineers, which was established in 1859, and is the oldest surveying/engineering firm in St. Louis. The company was purchased by several employees in 1970. In 1972, Roy became majority stockholder and President of the company. He continued in that position until 2005, when he decided it was time to move into retirement and sold the company. At that time he became President Emeritus and subsequently President Emeritus-Retired on June 29, 2007. Although retired, he consulted on several projects for the company. Roy has served as president of the Municipal Engineers & Surveyors Association of Greater St. Louis; the Missouri Society of Professional Surveyors; and served for MSPS as past Governor of the National Society of Professional Surveyors.
Roy got involved with the St. Louis – Stuttgart Sister Cities in 1977 when he volunteered to host a father and son, who were members of the Weingarten Musikverein, performing at the annual Strassenfest. In 1985 Roy was invited to serve on the St. Louis-Stuttgart Sister Cities board of directors and at the first meeting was elected Vice-President, four years later was elected President and served for 8 years. During his term as President, the organization has undertaken various annual events such as The Winter Ball Karneval; a Christmas Reception (as a benefit for children); bus trips to the Kansas City Maskenball, Chicago Maskenball and the Germanfest in Milwaukee. Also during his term The Volksmarsch Club was organized and continues to function for the enjoyment of walkers and hikers.
Roy always considered the Winter Ball Karneval to be his greatest achievement, which is an annual celebration of Germany’s 5th Season and for 29 years he brought together friends from near and as far away as Germany. Please ask Harrison if you have not heard the story on how Winter Ball got started.
In 1991, Roy was awarded the William E. Gruening, Jr. plaque from the Kansas City Germania Club; and in 2012, at the St. Louis–Stuttgart Sister Cities’ 25th anniversary, he received The President’s Award. He was also proud to be a member of the Chicago Rheinischer Verein Karneval Club.
He also served on the Board of the German American Heritage Society. Roy was one of the rare recipients of both the Carl Schurz Award (in 1999, for his dedication to the preservation of the history and heritage of our German forebears), and the Friedrich Hecker Freedom Award (in 2007, for his assistance in the promulgation of cooperation and understanding between Germany and the United States).
On July 20, 2000, Roy received his greatest honor, The Federal Republic of Germany Friendship Award, from Wolfgang Ischinger, Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany, conveyed through the efforts of Honorary Consul Anna Mayer Beck.
We will miss our Volksmarsch Trailmeister, Karnevalist Extra Ordinaire, Tour Guide and Goodwill Ambassador for the City of St. Louis.

June 9-10-2016
From the German American Edelweiss Society in Facebook:
Heaven has A New Angel! We love you and will miss you!
Published in Kansas City Star on June 5, 2016:
Christa Kump-Timmons, 77, of Kansas City, Kansas went home to our Heavenly Father on June 3rd, 2016. She was born May 5th, 1939 in Bad Kissingen, Germany to Georg Eduard StrOlein and Erna Eugenia, nee Rinker, StrOlein.
Christa enjoyed mixing and mingling with people and was a member of several social groups such as The Edelweiss Club, German American Citizens Association and Bethel Community Center.
Christa belonged to various church groups and organizations, even serving as a Parish Council member. She was a devoted member of St. Mary-St. Anthony Catholic Church for more than 50 years, and while her children attended school, was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church.
Christa was a loving daughter, mother, and grandmother (Oma). Christa was preceded in death by her parents, step-father Giuseppi Ponturo, husband John Timmons, and her sister Karin Swofford.
Christa is survived by her 4 children: son Thomas Kump, Phoenix, AZ; son Alexander Kump (Kathy Steele), KCK; son Norman Kump (Michele Collins), KCK; and daughter Heidi (Kump) Huenergarde (Aaron), Whitesburg, TN.; 14 grandchildren: Geoffrey, Andrew, Audrey, Erich, Charles Kump; Savannah, Annabelle, Thatcher, Winston, Eleanor, Rosemary Kump; and Morgan, Jennifer and Kyle Huenergarde; former husband Erich Jakob Kump, several brothers-in- law and sisters-in- law, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
•  Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 9th from 5 pm – 7 pm at St. Mary-St. Anthony Catholic Church, 615 N. 7th, KCKS; MAP; with the Rosary at 7 pm.
•  The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Mary-St. Anthony Catholic Church on Friday, June 10th at 9:30 am.
•  Interment will take place that afternoon at 2:30 pm in the Leavenworth National Cemetery, 150 Muncie Road, Leavenworth, KS; MAP
•  In lieu of flowers, Christa and family would like to request contributions to St. Mary-St. Anthony Catholic Church.
Arrangements: Skradski Funeral Home, KCK, 913-371- 1404;  www.skradskifh-kc.com
Online Obituary at legacy.com


Aug 28 2015-
Anni (Anna F.) Bargen
Dear Friends of the German Community, Klubs and Friends,
We have lost a dear lady Anni (Anna F.) Bargen. Walter’s Mom and a fellow supporter of the German Communities in the Kansas City area for many many years. Anni passed away early Tuesday morning Aug 18, 2015, at the Katy Trail Manor in Pilot Grove, MO.
Anni was an integral partner, supporter, and member of the Blautalers (The German Dance Group) for 30+ years, and The German Liederkranz Singers of Kansas City, as well as an active member with the German American Citizens Association since the 1950’s, the Germania Klub and the Kansas City Turners. She was a super volunteer and hard worker at the Turner-German American Hall, German Celebrations, and her church.
She was also an avid GOLFER all of her life, as well as a very-frequent viewer of the golf channel, and enjoyed bowling. She was a long-time member of St. Sabina Catholic Church in Belton and helped with the Turkey Dinners at the Old Church.
Anni and her husband Bill (retired Army) were very active in the military community at RG, as well members of the Air Force Sergeants Association. Bill and Anni were one of the original family residents at RG, when the first original base housing was built in 1954, as the status of the AFB grew with the addition of the 326th FI Squadron mowing into RG. Bill was involved in many areas of the base, including helping with location of military families in housing in the late 50’s in the Belton area. He and Anni were ardent supporters of Belton/RG Communities Activities. Anni worked at the RG Base Day Care Center for many years.Anni would have been 93 years old on October 5th of this year.
Her Visitation will be on Friday, August 28, 2015 at 11am in the Chapel at the Longview Funeral Home located at 12700 S. Raytown Road, Kansas City, MO (just east of Grandview and east of Longview Lake); MAP; Services will follow at 11:30am in the Chapel.
Burial will follow at 12:35pm, with a motorcade to Fort Leavenworth Cemetery with graveside services at 2:30pm.
Also, Walter would like 6-8 volunteers to act as pall bearers, it would be nice to have one from each of our German Klubs/Organizations, please call me ASAP, if you would like to be a pall bearer, so I can let the Funeral Home know.
A pot-luck gathering of family, friends, military friends, neighbors, and the many friends from the different communities that Anni was so involve in, are invited to the TG Hall (on the old RG AFB) at 512 Bong Avenue, Belton, MO, after the graveside service at Fort Leavenworth, approximately around 4pm or so, depending on rush hour traffic coming back from Leavenworth.
We will eat about 5pm or so on Friday or when the family arrives back from Leavenworth.
Sincerely,
Patté Klaus Schreihofer
P.S. If you are coming to the Pot-Luck Gathering at the TG Hall, PLEASE bring a covered dish, or salad or dessert (meat will be provided by the TG Hall). This was one of Anni’s favorite things to participate in.
Please let me know as soon as possible if you are coming for dinner, by emailing me at (pklausschreihofer@yahoo.com) or call me or text me on my cell phone number at 816/560-6666 or contact Joy Pena at C#816/918-8805 or Ute Randolph at H# 816/765-2938. Thanks!!!!!


Donnell L. “Don” Ganzer
, 73, of Overland Park, KS, passed away peacefully September 25, 2009, surrounded by his loving family.
Don was born July 25, 1936, at his family home in Kansas City, MO. He graduated from East High School.
Don loved to participate in the new and old traditions of the German/American heritage, and was a member of the Germania Club of Kansas City and the German American Citizen's Assoc. At one time Don served as the reigning Prince of Karneval. He enjoyed fundraising for the restoration of Union Station and was an avid Meals-on- Wheels volunteer. He was a member of St. Thomas the Apostle Episcopal Church.
After 32 years of service for GM, Don retired and enjoyed his hobbies of travel, golf, music and with his friends, enjoyed 20 years of companionship on Saturday afternoons at Kelly's Roundtable, where he served as one of the board members.
All will remember his love of practical jokes and his kind heart. His legacy will be carried on by all that knew and loved him.
Don was preceded in death by his father Fred Ganzer, mother Ruth Bosker, sister Roselyn Gray and infant son Jamie Craig Ganzer.
Don is survived by his beloved wife Lyn (Fisher) Ganzer of the home; son Scott D. Ganzer of Minneapolis, MN; daughters Linell R. Gibson and husband Dave of Olathe, KS, Leslie D. Scott of Kansas City, KS, Stephanie L. Carvajal and husband Ricky of Stillwell, KS and Heather S. Miller of the home; sister Linda Thompson and husband George of West Plains, MO; brother-in-law Roy Gray of Belton, MO; grandchildren Chris, Carrie, Jessica, Katie, Ashley, Maxwell, Courtney, Ava and Tyler; and great-grandson Mason. He is also survived by his father-in-law and mother-in-law Hank and Evelyn Stephens of Overland Park, KS, brother-in-law Jim Fisher and wife Kathy of Shawnee, KS and their families.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, September 29, at St. Thomas the Apostle Episcopal Church, 12251 Antioch Road, Overland Park, KS. Interment in Mt. Moriah Cemetery. Visitation will be from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Monday at Mt. Moriah & Freeman Funeral Home, 10507 Holmes Road. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society. It is the families' wish to thank those of Sunflower Hospice who cared for Don with such compassion: Ginny, Carol, Jill, Martin, your kindnesses will never be forgotten. (Arr.: Mt. Moriah & Freeman, 816-942-2004.)
Published by Kansas City Star on Sep. 27, 2009.


https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/kansascity/name/donnell-ganzer-obituary?id=4378542


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May 1-2-SQUEEZEBOX BAND, Windstone Entertainment Center, 2425 Industrial Dr., Jefferson City, MO 65109; MAP; Come and enjoy dancing on Windstone's wooden dance floor; food available at the event; WindstoneEntertainment.comwww.mollieb.com
TICKETS: Tickets are $15.00 on Friday, $15.00 on Saturday, or $25.00 for both days. Contact Charles Stone for tickets or questions: (573) 636-2850; JeffersonCityDance@yahoo.com
FRIDAY - 6-10pmTICKETS ONLINE, $16.50 Add Saturday Dance Ticket for $11.00?
SATURDAY - 3-7pmTICKETS ONLINE, $16.50 Add Friday Dance Ticket for $11.00?

May 2-Mayor Quinton Lucas and the Ethnic Enrichment Commission's
The 2020 Diplomatic Ball, Sheraton Kansas City Hotel at Crown Center, Grand Ballroom, 2345 McGee Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64108; www.eeckc.org
DRESS: Formal or Ethnic Attire
“A Celtic Fling” - Hosted by England, Scotland and Wales
SCHEDULE FOR THE EVENING:
5:30pm Cash Bar
6:30pm Seating & Grand Entry
7:00pm Single Entrée Dinner featuring
an 8 oz portion of Salmon with Creamy Chardonnay Sauce or Beef Short Ribs in Red Wine Sauce
Cultural Entertainment: Host Countries
Ballroom Dancing: Saucy Jack
TICKETS: $80.00 per person
RSVP by Monday, March 6th if you want to sit at the German table.
Otherwise you can RSVP by April 6, 2020 and still get a ticket to get in.
Contact Cindy Pearson at 913-262-2291 or Rosemarie Hedrick at 913-722-5308

Ongoing - 3rd Tuesday every month - Stammtisch, Affäre, 1911 Main St, Kansas City, MO 64108; MAP; 5-9pm; 816-298-6182; affarekc.com
$4 draft beer, $5 homemade brat & fries, plus a special German dish for the occasion
If we find enough people, maybe we can discuss Skat or Doppelkopf
PARKING Street parking.
If you come past 5:45 PM, Bob Jones parking lot a good option to park (provided the business is closed)