Category: German Heritage Talk

German Heritage related random postings…

9 Must-Have Tips for your Ultimate Backyard Biergarten Oktoberfest Neighborhood Party

German Heritage Talk

When the leaves start to turn fiery shades of red, orange, and yellow, and the crisp autumn breeze fills the air, it can only mean one thing: Oktoberfest season is here! While the traditional Oktoberfest in Munich typically starts in September, there’s nothing stopping you from hosting your own backyard Oktoberfest in early October.

With the promise of cooler days and the vibrant colors of seasonal flowers, your neighborhood party is bound to be a hit. Here are nine essential ingredients to make your Oktoberfest celebration a resounding success.

1. A Dash of Oktoberfest History

Before you start planning your backyard bash, it’s essential to understand why Oktoberfest traditionally begins in September. The origin of Oktoberfest dates back to October 12, 1810, when Crown Prince Ludwig of Bavaria married Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen. The people of Munich celebrated with horse races, and the festivities extended into early October. Over time, the festival was moved to September to take advantage of better weather. So, don’t be surprised if your party starts in October—it’s all about embracing the spirit of the original Oktoberfest!

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From Horses to Light Bulbs: The Fascinating Journey of Oktoberfest

German Heritage Talk

Ladies and gentlemen, grab your steins and don your lederhosen because it’s that time of year again – Oktoberfest! That’s right, Oktoberfest 2023 is kicking off today on September 16th, marking the start of two weeks of joyous celebration, hearty German cuisine, and, of course, plenty of beer.

But did you know that this beloved festival has a rich history dating back over two centuries? Today, we’re embarking on a journey through time, exploring the origins of Oktoberfest, its transformation from horse races to beer revelry, and a delightful twist involving a young Albert Einstein.

Origins of Oktoberfest: A Royal Wedding Celebration

Our tale begins in 1810 in the heart of Bavaria, Munich. On October 12th of that year, the crown prince of Bavaria, who would later become King Louis I, tied the knot with Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen. The occasion was grand and joyous, and the entire city was invited to join in the celebration. Imagine a royal wedding turned city-wide party, complete with feasts and horse races.

The excitement and merriment of that day resonated with the people of Munich, leaving them wanting more. And so, the ‘Landwirtschaftlicher Verein in Bayern’ (Bavarian Agricultural Association) stepped in to organize and carry forward the festivities. As history has taught us, significant events tend to follow one another in rapid succession, and by 1813, the first Oktoberfest had to be canceled due to the Napoleonic wars.

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The Delightful Journey of Pretzels: From Germany to America

German Heritage Talk

When it comes to iconic snacks that have left an indelible mark on American taste buds, few treats can match the popularity and unique charm of pretzels. These salty, twisted delights have a long and fascinating history, originating in Germany and finding their way into the hearts (and stomachs) of Americans across the nation. In this journey through time, we explore how German pretzels made their way from the old world to the new, becoming a beloved culinary tradition in the United States.

The story of pretzels dates back to the early Middle Ages in southern Germany, where monks in monasteries began baking these distinctive snacks as a reward for children who learned their prayers. The shape of the pretzel, often associated with arms folded in prayer, quickly became a symbol of spiritual unity and blessing. As the years went by, this twisted bread gained popularity and began to be sold by bakers in local markets.

With waves of German immigrants arriving in America in the 18th and 19th centuries, pretzels soon found their way to the shores of the New World. These immigrants brought not only their hopes and dreams but also their cherished culinary traditions, and pretzels were no exception. The Pennsylvania Dutch, a German-speaking community, played a pivotal role in introducing pretzels to the American culinary landscape.

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Embracing the Treasures of German Heritage in the Heart of America

German Heritage Talk

The vast tapestry of American heritage is woven with threads from all corners of the globe, and perhaps one of the most vibrant and impactful threads is the rich legacy of German Heritage. From the moment German settlers first set foot on American soil to the waves of immigration that followed, their contributions have left an indelible mark on the cultural, economic, and social fabric of the United States.

Journey with us as we delve into the inspiring tales at “German Heritage USA” and explore the remarkable achievements of early German immigrants, from beloved sports icons like Babe Ruth to visionary Beer Barons and automotive pioneers.

A Tapestry Woven in Time: German Roots Unearthed

The roots of German influence in America run deep, encompassing an astonishing array of traditions and achievements. Spanning from the 17th century to the early 20th century, German immigrants were among the vanguard of those who shaped the destiny of the New World. These pioneers brought with them more than just dreams; they brought their values, work ethic, and resilience, which became the cornerstone of some of America’s most iconic brands, like Levi Strauss & Co., Anheuser-Busch InBev, and Johnson Controls. But their impact extended far beyond the realm of business. 

Building a Nation, One Piece at a Time: Contributions in Culture and Commerce

The captivating story of German influence on American soil begins with the pioneers who sought new horizons and a fresh start. Their tireless work ethic German Farmers and craftsmen. That entrepreneurial spirit helped lay the foundation for thriving industries, from farming to manufacturing.

Through their tireless dedication, these pioneers sowed the seeds of success that would later blossom into some of America’s most flourishing businesses. As the nation grew, so did the rich tapestry of German Heritage, entwining itself in the very fabric of everyday life.

From cherished culinary delights like sausages, potato salads, pretzels, and beer to the harmonious strains of polka, classical music, and jazz, German culture intertwined with American society in ways that continue to captivate and inspire. Time-honored celebrations like family picnics,  Oktoberfest, and traditional Christmas markets have become annual fixtures, uniting communities in a shared appreciation for the enduring gifts of German Heritage.

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German Heritage USA Blog: Embarking on an Exciting Journey of Rediscovery

German Heritage Talk

Greetings, dear readers! Get ready to be swept away on a thrilling voyage of rediscovery as we unveil the revitalized German Heritage USA Blog.

I’m Brian Hingst, the original visionary behind this digital haven that is German Heritage USA, and I’m here to share the exhilarating plans that are poised to reshape the vast landscape of German heritage appreciation in the United States.

Cast your mind back to that fateful day in 2011 when German Heritage USA first came to life – a daring experiment to explore the realms of German Heritage through the medium of a blog.

Over the past twelve years, our platform might have seemed dormant, but little did you know that we were nurturing a grand vision, waiting for the perfect moment to unveil it to the world.

Get ready to feast your eyes on a brand-new, simplistic website design that’s as inviting as a multi-layered sandwich, each tier unveiling a tantalizing morsel of German culture, history, and lifestyle.

But that’s not all – we’re introducing a fresh perspective to our content creation. Brace yourselves for a whirlwind tour through topics ranging from the delectable flavors of German cuisine, the pulse-pounding beats of entertainment, the seamless fusion of tradition and technology, and the boundless horizons of travel exploration.

As if that weren’t enough, we’re thrilled to announce the launch of our very own e-commerce hub, where you can snag a piece of German Heritage for yourself.

Also, go ahead and immerse yourself in our German Heritage USA Swag Shop, brimming with merchandise and clothing that proudly flaunts our unique brand. It’s more than just a shop; it’s an expression of your passion for German Heritage. We of German ancestry, if only a little bit are a unique and proudful club or tribe after all!

But hold onto your lederhosen because the excitement doesn’t end there! Prepare to be captivated by the allure of our upcoming NEW Social Media German Heritage Club, a social media platform like no other. We’ve concocted something truly extraordinary that will connect THOUSANDS of fellow German Heritage enthusiasts like never before. Trust us, you won’t want to miss out on the marvels we have in store.

At the heart of it all, German Heritage USA is your gateway to a realm of discovery and appreciation. Our tagline – “Discovering German Heritage traditions, foods, music, and festivals across America coast to coast” – perfectly encapsulates our mission. We’re your ultimate resource for unearthing the hidden gems of German-related businesses, clubs, organizations, and events across the USA.

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Belleville Oktoberfest canceled due to COVID-19

German Heritage Talk

The annual Oktoberfest in Belleville has been canceled, event organizers announced Monday. The event was scheduled for the weekend of Sept. 18-20. “All of the organizations who produce this event as their biggest fundraiser each year were very much looking forward to putting on a huge celebration, commemorating 40 years of our cities German Heritage,” said Cari Frick, Belleville Oktoberfest committee chairperson in a press release.  

This would have been the festival’s 40th year

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    Authentic German Potato Salad – from Pinterest

    German Heritage Talk

    Here’s a great authentic German Potato Salad recipe from a post on Pinterest that I discovered recently that comes from a blog posting by Debby the Foodiewife F.

    Originally posted on Pinterest by: foodiewife-kitchen.blogspot.co.uk

    It’s actually very similar to my own family recipe for German Potato Salad, or “Kartoffel Salat” that we all love not only during the summer months and Oktoberfest timeframe each fall, but also during the holiday season as a special family dish for both Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner.

    A Feast for the Eye Blog  http://afeastfortheeye.net

    http://www.afeastfortheeyes.net/2009/11/my-muttis-german-potato-salad-with-nod.html

    Of course there are other ways and methods to create a real good tasting German Potato Salad recipe. One variation from a German Chef involves adding a bit of apple in the recipe.

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    Backyard Biergarten – How To Create for Summertime Fun

    Biergartens, German Heritage Talk, German Heritage USA, German-Americans, Germany, history

    Creating your own Backyard Biergarten at your home can be tons of fun, especially when family, close friends and all your neighbors can share in the enjoyment of it all. 

    beer-garden

    Your own Backyard Biergarten is a real fun project to create and you really can make it as simple or elaborate as you may wish. After all, it is your backyard.

    The first part of creating a viable Biergarten in your backyard is knowing the history of Biergartens in Germany. It is true that Biergartens originated in the 19th century in Munich, the capital of the German state of Bavaria.

    The large breweries back then dug cellars in the banks near rivers to keep their beer cool during storage. During both the Spring and Summer months they would bring the beer out to enjoy under shade trees in a natural setting outdoors.

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    Maifest Celebrations of German Heritage across America

    German Festivals USA, German Heritage Talk, German-Americans, Holidays & Celebrations

    It’s fun to see the popularity of German Heritage related Maifest celebrations increasing all across America.

    The first of May is always a public holiday all throughout greater Germany.

    Also known as Der Erste Mai or Tag der Arbeit, this first day in May was the historic start of an ancient festival to welcome the spring weather and to drive away all evil spirits.

    It’s also an occasion to celebrate workers rights like Labor Day in the United States.

    Mai pole

    In recent years, the Maibaum (maypole) is a much decorated, tall wooden pole made up to showcase the history of trades and crafts of the local town where it’s located.

    It is celebrated with a long precession of music and dance.

    Maifest in America is very popular as well. One of the largest celebrations of Maifest within the USA is in Cincinnati, Ohio which has been celebrating it since 1873. 

    2017-maifest-postcard-handbill-01Organized by the Germania Society Of Cincinnati, this Maifest celebration doesn’t start until May 19th, 20th and 21st 2017.

    Take a look at their Maifest promotional “commercial” videos from last year. Sure looks like a lot of German Heritage fun!

    The annual Maifest celebration in Leavenworth Washington is always a spectacular event. This magical Bavarian hamlet of the northwest always knows how to do it right.

    maifest leavenworthSource: @ Reed Carlson

    Of course the city of Chicago won’t begin their annual Maifest celebrations until the month of June. Maybe for the same reasons Oktoberfest in Germany takes place in September.

    maifest_2017_sched

    One of the most popular celebrations of Maifest within the USA is that of Brenham, Texas that originally started it’s first Maifest celebration in 1881.

    brenham

    This town of Brenham TX has strong German ancestry roots.

    Brenham’s Maifest celebration may be a bit watered down these days, but it continues to be a very popular and ongoing attraction for all weekend long that showcases Brenham’s proud German Heritage with historical demonstrations, music, dance, merchandise and displays.

    There you have it. It doesn’t really matter if it’s May 1st or the end of June… Maifest is a big part of your proud German Heritage to experience and enjoy!

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    Der Biergarten Downtown Atlanta was full of Suprises

    German Heritage Talk

    So this was my 2nd attempt to try out Der Biergarten German Restaurant in as many years while visiting downtown Atlanta.

    After walking from the Georgia World Congress Center last year to this restaurant on a late Saturday afternoon, we were surprised and very much disappointed to be quickly turned away because of a “Private Party” that was going on there.

    During our visit to Atlanta this year however, we got in!

    Der Biergarten German Restaurant Atlanta

    Our group had lunch outdoors in the biergarten area which was very pleasant. Atlanta weather conditions was absolutely perfect with sunny skies and temperatures in the high 70’s. 

    I had my picture taken just inside Der Biergarten Restaurant after being served my first beer. I was actually surprised the beer was not really that cold. Not a big deal though.

    Our visiting group tried a variety of German appetizers from the menu that were all very delicious! For my lunch selection, I chose a German Rouladen dish with red cabbage that really turned out to be fabulous.

    Our server was fun, informative and very prompt in getting our orders out to us.

    Here is a quick promotional video of Der Biergaten Restaurant Atlanta to give you an idea of what it’s all about.

    Atlanta Eats does a great job in this video. In fact, this is the video I discovered on YouTube that got me interested enough to visit (twice) to get in the door and experience myself.

    What does Der Biergarten Atlanta do around Oktoberfest season each and every year?

    GermanHeritageUSA is in the Haus !!!

    I did meet with one of the Restaurant Managers upon arrival introducing myself and informing him of GermanHeritageUSA and that I planned to do a review within this blog.

    He came across as uninterested, uninviting and unable to even provide his name for this article. Very surprising and quite disappointing at the same time.

    When someone wishes to freely promote your business in a positive manner, one would think one would be all over that.

    Maybe he was just having a bad day…

    Other than that, I give Der Biergarten German Restaurant in Atlanta a 9.0 rating out of 10 because of our food, service and the fun German ambiance and experience of it all!

    Prost!

     

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    German Heritage in New Braunfels Texas Town Square

    German American History, German Heritage Talk, German-Americans

    It’s always fun to discover historical information about German Heritage across America. Today we take a look at the German influence and history of the town square in New Braunsfels, Texas.

    New Braunfels TexasSource: Texas Historical Comission

    Below is a video from the Texas Historical Commission that provides an introduction to the architectural history of New Braunfels’ town square that was produced for a Texas Time Travel Tours heritage travel app. 

    New Braunfels, Texas was established in 1845 by Prince Carl of Solms-Braunfels. He was titled as the royal Commissioner General of the Adelsverein, also known as the Noblemen’s Society. It’s recognized in German as Mainzer Adelsverein.

    Prince Solms named the settlement in honor of his home town of Solms-Braunfels, Germany.

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    Schnitzel Ranch Restaurant offers Gemütlichkeit

    German Food, German Heritage Talk, German Restaurants USA

    Have you ever gone into a brand new place and immediately experienced the warmth and welcoming like a close family environment? You know, a sense of coziness.

    The German’s have a one word name for that. They quickly tell you that it’s called… Gemütlichkeit.

    I can tell you straight up that the Schnitzel Ranch Restaurant in Huntsville, Alabama has that Gemütlichkeit feeling working for them full time and it’s always in high gear.

    sr

    As soon as my family walked in the door, we were greeted by several staff members to the Schnitzel Ranch. They were all friendly and eager to get us seated.

    Granted it was their first opening of their new place since relocating from across town and the excitement of their new place was obvious. That was fun to see.

    Yes, GermanHeritageUSA was in the Haus!!!

    Schnitzel Ranch Restaurant Owner and Chef, Renja Schmitt was busy speaking and taking pictures of patrons when she glanced up and recognized my face saying, “I knew you was going to eventually show up!”

    After some good conversation with Renja, we were all seated and I was seriously debating on ordering either a 2 or 3 liter bier boot. I settled for a simple 1 liter mug. In minutes I was enjoying a Paulaner Premium Pils that was quite refreshing after a late afternoon drive into town from Nashville.

    The Schnitzel Ranch Restaurant is pretty much in downtown Huntsville Alabama, not far from the Von Braun Civic Center at their new location on Church Street.

    The select menu at the Schnitzel Ranch is fantastic folks! I had personally ordered the Jaeger Schnitzel dinner loaded with sauerkraut and warm kartoffelsalat on the side.

    Delicious!

    AsbachBesides just great German food and beer, the Schnitzel Ranch offers a full bar selection of a variety of spirits too! They can make you just about any type of drink you desire

    By the way Renja, I did take your recommendation and tried a shot of Asbach Uralt. It’s a very popular old fine Brandy from Germany that’s now at the Schnitzel Ranch… Wunderbar!!!

    In conclusion, a special thanks to Schnitzel Ranch owner and chef Renja Schmitt and the rest of the staff for a FIVE STAR dining experience. We will definitely be back! 

     

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    The Bavarian Bierhaus Nashville Is Coming Alive

    German Heritage Talk, German Restaurants USA

    Great time yesterday afternoon in Nashville at Opry Mills Mall for the new Bavarian Bierhaus Nashville Restaurant’s pre-grand opening event where you had a chance to meet Brian Kehl and the rest of the ownership group.

    There was German music, pretzels and a genuine Bavarian style Keg Tapping ceremony that got things going after the formal introductions by the owners. It was interesting to hear the story of how a couple of former Army soldiers came up with the idea of the Bavarian Bierhaus and put their resources and knowledge together with a group of friends to bring this dream to fruition.

    tdesign_BB1111_400X

    There was a group of us that were fortunate to get a personal tour of the Bavarian Bierhaus Nashville massive 600+ seat restaurant that is still under construction.

    construction

    14484903_1072946836146881_362590997061976368_n

    I’m telling you now… it’s massive and Nashville is in for a treat! Just take a look at their incredible menu selection.

    Bavarian Bierhaus Nashville

    (Photo: Submitted)

    It’s good to know that the outdoor Biergarten section is on the west side of Opry Mills Mall facing the Cumberland River and the loading dock of the General Jackson Showboat.

    (Photo: Submitted)

    (Photo: Submitted)

    It’s perfect for all you NFL fans that take the Showboat upriver to the stadium on gameday, because now you have another fantastic venue to tailgate at for pregame or postgame festivities.
     
    Be certain to mark your calendar for the GRAND OPENING of this most impressive brand new Bavarian Bierhaus restaurant in Nashville, Tennessee that is scheduled to come alive on Sunday, April 30th 2017 at high Noon!!!
     
    Hope to see you there because GermanHeritageUSA will be in the Haus!
     

    ~ Prost! (cheers)

     

    Bavarian Bierhaus by TNdigital on Scribed

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    German Politicians Discover Social Media + MORE 06/28/2013

    German Heritage Talk

    Bier Tasting Night! All bottles $5!
    – facebook.com/pages/DOENER-BISTRO/60463489177?sk=info

    Bier Tasting Night! All bottles $5!Bier Tasting Night! All bottles $5!

    Continue Reading On facebook.com/pages/DOENER-BISTRO/60463489177?sk=info »

    German Politicians Discover Social Media
    – germanworldonline.com

    German Politicians Discover Social MediaGerman politicians are discovering the benefits and advantages of social media in the run-up to the federal election this fall, even though their campaigning is still taking place largely offline.
    These days, many politicians in Germany are tweeting, blogging and texting to get their message out to voters…

    Continue Reading On germanworldonline.com »

    50 years ago in Berlin
    – germanworldonline.com

    President John F. Kennedy famous speech at the Berlin Wall.
    He blasts Communism, reaffirms American solidarity and declares “Ich bin ein Berliner”.
    West Berlin, Germany June 26th, 1963

    Two thousand years ago–[Kennedy is interrupted by applause.] –Two thousand years ago, the proudest boast was “civis Romanus sum!” Today in the world of freedom, the proudest boast is “Ich bin ein Berliner!” [Crowd roars…

    Continue Reading On germanworldonline.com »

     
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    German dialect in Texas is one of a kind, and dying out

    German Heritage Talk, German-Americans, GermanNationUSA

     

    German Heritage in Texas – It’s a culture into itself…

    German dialect in Texas is one of a kind, and dying out

    The first German settlers arrived in Texas over 150 years ago and successfully passed on their native language throughout the generations – until now.

    http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-22490560

    It’s always interesting to see the German influence in small businesses throughout Texas. See the video inside the article link above for additional insights…

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    GermanNationUSA – Your German Heritage Is Calling You…

    German Festivals USA, German Genealogy, German Heritage Talk, German Restaurants USA, German-Americans, German-Surnames, GermanNationUSA, Oktoberfest - USA

    About GermanNationUSA – Your German Heritage Is Calling You…

    If you are of German ancestry, you will really come to love visiting our ever populating German Heritage website named, “GermanNationUSA”. It is here where you will always discover new and interesting stories, videos, pictures, commentary and facts regarding your German heritage. It is always a fun German Heritage related “Hub” to frequent!

    German Heritage in the USA!

    Your German Heritage Is Calling You...

    www.GermanNationUSA.com

    The GermanNationUSA website is designed to be informative, educational, entertaining and quite a captivating for anyone of German Heritage and other people with German related interest and passion.

    The primary focal point for GermanNationUSA will certainly be structured around the presentation of German related heritage, tourism & commerce within the confines of the USA and parts of Canada too.

    We will showcase everything from German restaurants, deli’s and bakeries to German influenced tourism destinations and special events like Oktoberfest all across the USA!

     

    As one would observe it from a German-American perspective, it seems to be somewhat of an emotional destiny quest for thousands of German-Americans that are both curious and anxious to get back in touch with their Germanic roots to seek out and experience anything German… it’s truly a genuine attraction phenomenon.

    Although GermanNationUSA is still in its early stages of development, consider it an ever evolving effort as its pages are continually being populated and updated with relevant fresh content, pictures, videos, music, widgets, advertising and multiple viral social features as well to ensure mass visitor traffic and visitor interactive participation too!

    Come explore www.GermanNationUSA.com and The Guten Tag Times newsletter as we continue to expand on your German Heritage experience in the USA and create a lot of fun and entertainment doing it!

    ~ Prost!

    GermanNationUSA is the Official Site of German heritage, tourism and commerce within the USA.

    Discover Amerika… visit Germany stateside!

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    Bristol's German Christmas market | Western Eye

    German Heritage Talk

    Christmastime in outdoor German style markets starts in November…

    Christkindlmart | | Allentown Youth SourceAllentown Youth Source

          

    "Christkindlmart. Start: November 25, 2011; End: November 26, 2011; Category: Arts and Culture. Venue: PNC Plaza @ Steel Stacks; Address: 645 E. First St, …www.allentownyouthsource.org/event/christkindlmart-3/"
    http://www.allentownyouthsource.org/event/christkindlmart-3/

    Discover German Heritage in various Christkindlmarts across the USA! 

     

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    Germans claim heritage at Fox Valley Oktoberfest

    German Heritage Talk

    Have fun discovering your German Heritage and traditions…

    Germans claim heritage at Fox Valley Oktoberfest

    "While many people have some degree of German heritage, Tyler said few truly identify with the culture. He said events like Oktoberfest, held along the Fox River in downtown Batavia, allow people to experience the music, language, traditional dress …"
    http://www.dailyherald.com/article/20121013/news/710119572/


     A great article to show you can still visit Germany… stateside!

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    Oktoberfest offers beer German heritage | The Asheville Citizen …

    German Heritage Talk

    German Heritage is alive and well in North Carolina…

    Beer tasting at German American Heritage Center Oct. 13

    “Beer tasting at German American Heritage Center Oct. 13. Tweet · Share. Posted Online: Oct. 11, 2012, 9:17 am. Comment on this story | Print this story | Email this story. Press release submitted by German American Heritage Center Beer tasting this …”
    http://www.citizen-times.com/article/20121014/NEWS/310140078/Oktoberfest-toasts-local-beer-German-heritage%3Fodyssey%3Dtab%257Ctopnews%257Ctext%257CFrontpage

    Fun times in Asheville NC

    What more can you say…  Prost!  (cheers)

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    Your German Heritage Is Calling You

    German Genealogy, German Heritage Talk, GermanNationUSA

    Your German Heritage Is Calling You

    Real time German Genealogy is paying tribute to your ancestors legacy today!

    Our flagship website GermanNationUSA, in combination with the efforts of our growing GermanHeritageUSA network of websites and social platforms, is bringing an awareness of German Heritage history & family legacy to America all starting with your individual family German-Surname.

    Introducing German Surnames Legacy Quest!

    German Surnames Legacy Quest
    I’d  like to invite you to join myself and thousands of other Americans with  some German ancestry to celebrate your individual German Heritage through your own unique family SURNAME of German origin.  If you have some Irish, English, or Italian in you too… that’s okay.

    Just what exactly defines a true definition of a German-American?

    Is  it a German native coming to America eventually gaining citizenship… or an American (no matter what the percentage) with true German ancestry  bloodlines?

    Definition:

    German-American – an American who was born in Germany or whose ancestors were German.

    German Americans (Deutschamerikaner)  are Americans of German ancestry. Americans of German ancestry form the  largest self-reported ancestry group in the United States outnumbering the Irish and English with just over 60 million people, or 17% of the
    U.S. population.

    We usually identify German-Americans, or people  of German ancestry typically from their last name, or surname. Often as  someone with a German Surname is introduced to someone else for the very first time, they typically listen intently to the pronounciation of
    your surname and usually will respond with, “Oh, that’s a German last name, right?”

    Your German Surname (or last name) is part of your family legacy – and we want your family name to be recognized and immortalized as well within a most innovative virtual archive that we are creating online as a sort of tribute to all German Surnames.

    The  idea we’re proposing is to create is a virtual roadway comprised of thousands of cobblestone bricks & blocks that will ultimately lead to a massive virtual German Castle online. These cobblestone bricks & blocks will feature unique family German Surnames inscribed on them such as your own.

    We have affectionately named this project our German Surnames Legacy Quest.

    I’m sure that you have heard of a website that you can register and purchase a virtual star in our galaxy (with your name on it) from a star chart that has billions of choices to choose from.

    It’s the same principal that we’re doing with German Surnames.

    The  technology these days is such where you can easily do that now and basically refer to it at any time online to show your family and friends  your family German Surname Legacy Brick from your home pc, laptop or mobile device from anywhere in the world.

    For us to create this virtual German CASTLE online, we need to hire the right team of graphic artist, software programmers and have the proper website infrastructure to handle the various programs and traffic demands to make it all happen seamlessly.

    To properly fund this project we have created a crowdfunding page that explains things in greater detail plus shows you ways that you can help us spread the word to other people you may know of German Heritage. See our now active running campaign here:

    http://www.indiegogo.com/German-Surnames

    How exactly will this all work?

    In  our German Surnames Legacy Quest project, we will inscribe your German Surname on a virtual online cobblestone brick or block that will immortalize your German Heritage family surname for the ages. At the same time it’ll also pay tribute to your own family surname legacy too.

    This  virtual cobblestone roadway and Castle will only be the start of even greater things to come regarding our German Heritage related creation capabilities.

    As  you think about your family line of ancestors, you have to remember that as German emmigrants to America… they helped shape this great country with only their name, personal sacrifices and hard work to create and pave a better future for their children and grandchildren for family generations to come.

    Now it’s time to pay homage and tribute to their foresight and return the favor by honoring your family German Surname with a small contribution. You can even purchase a brick for their name too, in their honor.

    The contribution starts as low as one dollar. It’s just a buck to get your family surname on the proverbial map.  Initially your name will be placed on a set-up listing on our flagship website at:

    http://www.GermanNationUSA.com

    The financial contributions recieved from our campaign will afford us financial flexibility to greatly accelerate our efforts to hire top notch designers and programmers to design, upgrade and enhance not only our German Surnames legacy page, but all of our other German Heritage related websites and social media platforms too.

    All our sites will be networked together to promote our German Surnames Legacy Quest funding campaign. Again  all names collected in our database will be on a simple listing untill our staff of programmers get our virtual Castle operational and ready to  implement.

    Got a German related business, organization, society  or club like a restaurant, bakery, school German club, festival event, meet-up group? Now you can also contribute on a much larger scale with a  “promotions block” and utilize that extra space as a marketing “pixel” tool to advertise or market yourself on.

    Our initial goal is to attract a collective minimum of 100,000 people of German Heritage to register and contribute to our effort, however we also realize that there is such great interest of German Heritage across America, the potential here that we can realistically exceed that number our campaign  turns viral within our social platforms like facebook, google plus, twitter, youtube, pinterest and more.

    Keep in mind that we really  have a substantial marketing base of 60 million people of German Heritage within the USA to promote to. That  number does not include tributes to family ancestors, German ex-patriots across the world or actual German natives that would like their German Surnames represented as well to perhaps connect with long
    lost cousins that made their way across the pond.

    It’s our intention to one day network all German related businesses, groups, organizations and special events (like Oktoberfest) within the USA together.

    We  feel this exposure will bring about the German Heritage awareness, experience and  history of how our German ancestors helped shape America and inspired the countless family traditions for millions of present day Americans.

    Your German Heritage Is Calling You!

    ~ Prost!  (cheers)

    Brian Hingst

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    100 Favorite Dishes: Spicy Landjager at Bavarian Meats

    German Heritage Talk

     

    The original beef or pork jerky concept started as a necessity for German hunters…

    100 Favorite Dishes: Spicy Landjager at Bavarian Meats

    "When I plot road bike rides, I tend to design routes around food. … than a plasticine protein bar, a Bavarian Meats spicy landjager has become my go-to nosh."
    http://blogs.seattleweekly.com/voracious/2012/06/100_favorite_dishes_spicy_land.php

     

    Landjager from Bavarian Meats


     

     

     Does it get any better snacking on a seasoned Landjager when you're on a trip? 
     

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    May the best wiener win

    German Heritage Talk

     

    Dashing dachshunds take the stage at Boerne's Berges Fest in 2012…

    May the best wiener win

    "The long dog rules at Boerne's Berges Fest, a weekend-long festival in this German-settled Hill Country town also known for its long-established oompah band, …" Berges Fest always brings a bit of the unusual to downtown with wheelbarrow and potato-sack races on the lawn of the city's Main Plaza. But nothing brings out the crowds at Berges Fest like the venerable dachshunds, long of torso and short of leg, and an uproarious sight in a footrace to the finish.


     

    Read more: http://www.mysanantonio.com/community/northwest/news/article/May-the-best-wiener-win-3628875.php#ixzz1xpfDxVuv
    http://www.mysanantonio.com/community/northwest/news/article/May-the-best-wiener-win-3628875.php

    I wonder how many breeds of dogs you can name that has German origins?

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    An old brew gets a fresh spin in New Ulm

    German Heritage Talk

     

    GermanNationUSA – Hermann the German says Schell's Brewery ready to market to a more national audience.

    An old brew gets a fresh spin in New Ulm

    "On a recent Wednesday, 20 or so senior citizens from nearby Arlington and Gaylord toured the Schell's brewery, got a taste of the family brewer's dark stout and stayed in town for a lunch of bratwurst, sauerkraut and German potato salad.Minneapolis Star Tribune"
    http://www.startribune.com/business/158182405.html

    New Ulm

    Is New Ulm, Minnesota the most German city in America? It's 152-year-old Schell's brewery bolsters that image and they could be right.

    For more information regarding German Heritage within the USA… visit:

    www.GermanNationUSA.com
     

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    Bavarian Fest welcomes people from Germany

    German Festivals USA, German Heritage Talk

     

    GermanHeritageUSA – Frankenmuth, MI comes alive this weekend with Bavarian Fest

    Bavarian Fest welcomes people from Germany

    “On Friday evening, June 8, Germans and hosts will attend German-American festivities in the Somme Garten at the Frankenmuth Bavarian Festival in Heritage Park featuring a Maibaum (Maypole) raising, music and dancing. On Saturday, June 9, …”

    http://www.wnem.com/story/18730878/bavarian-fest-welcomes-people-from-germany

    Great family time to get in touch with your German Heritage at the 54th annual Bavarian Festival in Frankenmuth, Michigan.

    For more German Heritage USA information, visit:
    www.GermanNationUSA.com

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    German-American | Flickr – Photo Sharing!

    German Heritage Talk

     

    German Heritage USA – Having fun in Cincy…

    German-American | Flickr – Photo Sharing!

    "German-American Day at Findlay Market in the Over-the-Rhine area of Cincinnati , Ohio. The man was celebrating his German heritage at German-American …www.flickr.com/photos/jefferysview/7332137234/"
    http://www.flickr.com/photos/jefferysview/7332137234/

    German Heritage USA

    German-American Day at Findlay Market in Cincinnati, Ohio is a great time to celebrate your German Heritage.  ~ Prost!
     

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    Brewery District lays plans for Cincinnati Brewing Heritage Trail

    German Beer/Bier, German Heritage Talk

     

    The old German heritage brewery district in Cincinnati is on it's way back…

    Brewery District lays plans for Cincinnati Brewing Heritage Trail

    "We're a German-American immigrant city. And there are great stories behind that.” Cincinnati has a rich history, especially when it comes to brewing, said Greg Hardman, CEO of the Christian Moerlein Brewing Company and President of the Brewery District …"
    http://www.kypost.com/dpps/news/brewery-district-lays-plans-for-cincinnati-brewing-heritage-trail_7562823

    Cincinnati Breweries

     

    The historical Brewing Heritage Trail showcasing German-American brewers of the 19th century in Cincinnati is a step down history lane.
     

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