Bi-Monthly Email Newsletter February 2024

From The Board

Roger Herod, National President
rogerherod1@gmail.com
Welcome everyone to the latest edition of our DANK e-mail newsletter, which we publish in the months that we
do not produce DANK’s German-American Journal. We hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and enjoyed
celebrating New Year!
As most of us have experienced major snowstorms in January, this edition includes two very topical and inter-
esting articles on Germany in Winter and the beautiful German Alps. The first article on Germany in Winter high-
lights some beautiful locations such as Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Oberhof/Thuringia, and the Harz Mountains, as
well as Baden-Baden’s spas for relaxing after hiking, skiing, and other winter activities. The second article covers
some famous attractions of the German Alps, including one of my favorite mountains in the world, the Zugspitze,
which was one of the highlights of our vacation in Bavaria in 2022.
We also have a very topical article about one of my favorite German foods entitled “German Wurst: A delightful
journey through Germany’s sausage heritage.” This is a very relevant article for me as I’m addicted to Bratwurst,
Weisswurst, and any other type of German sausages!
We hope you enjoy our e-mail newsletter and welcome your feedback and suggestions. Our chapters are all busy
organizing exciting programs for the next few months, which is very welcome news for all our DANK members.
Wishing everyone a very successful 2024!
Chapter Links:
01 - Chicago South 26 - Chicago Northern Suburbs
dankchicagosouth.org chicagogermanschools.org

02 - Chicago 30 - Cleveland
facebook.com/DANKCleveland
dankhaus.com
58 - Pittsburgh
03 - Chicago West facebook.com/germaninpittsburgh
facebook.com/FrischLuft75 71 - Erie
09 - Springfield facebook.com/groups/1187436298016239
facebook.com/DankSpringfieldILChapter 78 - Great Lakes Bay Region
facebook.com/Great-Lakes-Bay-Region-
13 - Benton Harbor DANK-591255254306887
facebook.com/DANK-13-Benton-HarborSt-Jo-
80 - Grand Rapids/Bier City
seph-Michigan-457928627661217 facebook.com/DANKGrandRapids/
23 - Milwaukee GA Club in New Port Richey (Associate Member)
facebook.com/DANKMilwaukee germanamericansocialclubnpr.com/
 Upcoming Events: Chapter Contacts:
February
1 Milwaukee, Singing 7:00PM *Location TBA National Board
2 Benton Harbor, Fish Fry @ 5:30 President - Roger Herod - rogerherod1@gmail.com
3 Milwaukee, Board Meeting 10am Vice-President- Dave Ringler - rings@csbrew.com
3 Chicago, Kino, Kaffee und Kuchen @ 10:30
3 Chicago, Wine Tasting mit der Weinkönigin @ 6pm Vice-President - Pete Schlicht - schlichtpf@yahoo.com
5 Bay City, Meeting @ 7pm Treasurer - Michael Ruddick - m.ruddick@Intravation.com
6 Grand Rapids, Stammtisch @ 6pm
Secretary - Ron Sohn - rsohn@ymail.com
8 Milwaukee, Singing 7:00PM *Location TBA
8 Northern Suburbs, Stammtisch @ 6:30pm 01 - Chicago South
8 Benton Harbor, PT and the Cruisers Band
President - Shannon Abendroth - shaniam71@aol.com
8 Chicago, Neighborhood Nights @ 7pm
10 Northern Suburbs, Fasching 2024 @ 11am 02 - Chicago
10 Chicago, Kino, Kaffee und Kuchen @ 10:30
President - Marco Heuer - mheuer@gmail.com
11 Chicago West, Meeting @ 1:30
13 Milwaukee, Dancing 6:30PM 03 - Chicago West
15 Milwaukee, Singing 7:00PM *Location TBA
President - Fred Leinweber - fgleinweber@gmail.com
16 Chicago, Karaoke Night Stammtisch @ 7:30pm
17 Chicago, Kino, Kaffee und Kuchen @ 10:30 05 - Lake County
19 Chicago South, Membership Meeting @ 2pm
20 Grand Rapids, Meeting @ 6:30
President - Ernst Stetz - danku727@yahoo.com
22 Milwaukee, Singing 7:00PM *Location TBA 09 - Springfield
22 Chicago, Neighborhood Nights @ 7pm
23 Chicago, Mohnkuchen: Kulturküche Baking Class @ 6:30
President - Jeff Engel -SpringfieldDANK9@gmail.com
24 Chicago, Kino, Kaffee und Kuchen @ 10:30 13 - Benton Harbor
27 Milwaukee, Dancing 6:30PM
29 Milwaukee, Singing 7:00PM *Location TBA President - Mike Boozer - loriatthedank@gmail.com
March 23 - Milwaukee
1 Benton Harbor, Fish Fry @ 5:30
President - Robert Hoeller - cabin1870@gmail.com
2 Chicago, Kino, Kaffee und Kuchen @ 10:30
2 Milwaukee, Board Meeting 10am 26 - Chicago Northern Suburbs
4 Bay City, Meeting @ 7pm
5 Grand Rapids, Stammtisch @ 6pm
President- Roger Herod - rogerherod1@gmail.com
7 Milwaukee, Singing 7:00PM *Location TBA 30 - Cleveland
9 Chicago, Kino, Kaffee und Kuchen @ 10:30
10 Chicago West, Meeting @ 1:30
President - Mark Bohn - MarkRBohn@outlook.com
12 Milwaukee, Dancing 6:30PM 36 - South Bend
14 Milwaukee, Singing 7:00PM *Location TBA
14 Northern Suburbs, Stammtisch @ 6:30pm President - Michael Freel - khujho@yahoo.com
14 Chicago, Neighborhood Nights @ 7pm 48 - Phoenix
16 Chicago, Kino, Kaffee und Kuchen @ 10:30
17 Phoenix, Meeting President - Jerry Wood - jtwood18@cox.net
19 Grand Rapids, Meeting @ 6:30 58 - Pittsburgh
21 Milwaukee, Singing 7:00PM *Location TBA
23 Chicago, Kino, Kaffee und Kuchen @ 10:30 President - Pete Schlicht - schlichtpf@yahoo.com
26 Milwaukee, Dancing 6:30PM 71 - Erie
28 Milwaukee, Singing 7:00PM *Location TBA
28 Chicago, Neighborhood Nights @ 7pm President - Beverly Pochatko - dankerie1990@gmail.com
April 78 - Bay City
1 Bay City, Meeting @ 7pm
2 Grand Rapids, Stammtisch @ 6pm President - Monte Oswald - Moswald31@gmail.com
5 Benton Harbor, Fish Fry @ 5:30 79 - Cedar Valley/Wartburg
6 Chicago, Kino, Kaffee und Kuchen @ 10:30
11 Northern Suburbs, Stammtisch @ 6:30pm President - Ethan Blass - ethan.blass@wartburg.edu
11 Chicago, Neighborhood Nights @ 7pm 80 - Grand Rapids
13 Chicago, Kino, Kaffee und Kuchen @ 10:30
14 Chicago West, Meeting @ 1:30 President - David Ringler - rings@csbrew.com

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Language Schools
Chicago North - DANK Haus
Classes for toddlers, kids, teens and adults with all German
language levels www.dankhaus.com/Education 773.561.9181 -
dank@DANKHaus.com
Chicago Northern Suburbs
Arlington Heights Saturdays, 9:30 am – Noon at Christian
Liberty Academy
Palatine Mondays, 5:45pm - 8:15 pm at Palatine High School
www.ChicagoGermanSchools.org
847.363.1904 - dank@ChicagoGermanSchools.org
German Language School Cleveland
Wednesday, 6:30pm-9pm and Saturday, 9:30am-Noon at
Donauschwaben’s German-American Cultural Center
www.germanschoolcle.org/
info@germanlanguageschoolcleveland.org
Deutsche Schule - German School Milwaukee
German language classes - children to adults - September to May
5335 W. Oklahoma Avenue - In the Oklahoma Ave. Lutheran
Church (not affiliated with the church)
Entrance is in the back, by the parking lot.)
WEBSITE: for additional information germanschoolmilwaukee.com
Meeting Locations for
DANK Chapters
Bay City
Tavern 101, 101 Center Ave, Bay City,MI. 48708
Benton Harbor
DANK Haus, 2651 Pipestone Rd. Benton Harbor, MI 49022
Tel. 269.926.6652 Open Mon - Thur 4 - 9
Chicago
DANK HAUS, 4740 N. Western Av. Chicago IL 60625
Tel. 773.561.9181
Chicago South
DANK House, 25249 S. Center Rd, Frankfort, IL 60423
Tel. 815.464.1514
Chicago West
Immanuel Lutheran, 142 E. 3rd St, Elmhurst, IL 60126
Cleveland
Cleveland Männerchor Club, 4515 State Rd., Cleveland, OH 44109
Grand Rapids
Küsterer Brauhaus, 642 Bridge St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504 (3rd
Tuesday 6:30pm)
Milwaukee
German Fest Office, W140N5761 Lilly Rd., Menomonee Falls, WI 53051
Springfield
Engel’s on Edwards, 552 S. MacArthur, Ste. A, Springfield, IL
Page/Seite 4 German - American E-Newsletter
Germany in Winter: Snow, Candlelight, and Mulled Wine
Winter is the favourite season for any romantic. Outside,
snowed-in forests and frozen lakes beckon. Inside, it feels
cosy with baked goods, mulled wine and candlelight.
Winter Romantics
Spring, summer and autumn have their charm – but
for many, winter is the most romantic season in Germany.
When it is bitingly cold outside, people in Germany draw
closer together on the long winter evenings. It becomes an
intimate time, surrounded by loved ones around a blazing
fireplace, drinking tea by candlelight or telling stories. In
larger groups, thermal baths with saunas, theatre visits and
cultural activities in the warmth offer popular contrasts to
the “outdoor agenda”. But when it snows, there’s no holding
back for young or old! It’s time for snowball fights, building
chubby snowmen with top hats and long carrot noses in the
front garden, ice skating, skiing, or hiking through the win-
ter wonderland. The Advent season is particularly romantic.
During this time, Advent calendars are crafted or ransacked,
bakeries smell of cinnamon stars, and the Christmas markets
tempt visitors with bratwurst and mulled wine.
Into the Snow
Oberhof/Thuringia, Garmisch-Partenkirchen/Bavaria
For sports enthusiasts, winter is a dream come true. For
example, in Oberhof in the Thuringian Forest. This winter
sports resort is one of the most well-known in the country.
It pays to be snow-safe. Here, even top athletes train for the
February 2024
biathlon, luge, bobsleigh, cross-country skiing and Nordic
combination skiing. Oberhof offers two alpine ski slopes,
the only cross-country indoor ski centre outside of Scandi-
navia, and an extensive network of cross-country ski trails.
In addition, there is a two kilometre long natural toboggan
track, which is particularly enjoyed by families. The high-al-
pine Zugspitze Ski Resort near Garmisch-Partenkirchen in
south Germany is an El Dorado for skiers and snowboard-
ers. Twenty kilometres of pistes with guaranteed snow, an ex-
tra-long season from November to the beginning of May and
a spectacular panoramic view of 400 Alpine peaks attract
visitors here. Germany’s highest ski area also offers three to-
boggan runs and an adventurous overnight stay in an igloo
village high above the clouds, at 2,600 metres above sea level.
Bathing with an Ambience
Baden-Baden/Baden-Württemberg
What could be better than enjoying a cosy, warm bath in
the winter cold? Germany has more than 350 spas and health
resorts for you to choose from. For example, it is considered
chic to relax in the spas of Baden-Baden. Here, 800,000 litres
of hot, mineral-rich water bubbles up every day from a depth
of around 2,000 metres, inviting visitors to enjoy the ther-
mal springs. The Friedrichsbad is architecturally spectacu-
lar, a magnificent building from 1877, that still today styl-
ishly combines Roman bathing culture with hot-air baths. A
February 2024 German - American E-Newsletter Page/Seite 5
newer version of the Friedrichsbad is the Caracalla Spa in
Baden-Baden. The 4,000-square-metre spa offers soothing
relaxation in hot thermal water in a modern ambience. For
anyone who wants to do even more for their respiratory sys-
tem, the Salina Baden-Baden sea salt grotto is the place to go.
Salt from the Himalayas and the Dead Sea create a healing
micro-climate here.

Mountains are the Harz Narrow Gauge Railways, historic

trains, some of which travel up the Brocken, the highest peak
in the Harz range. Some trains are even operated by steam
locomotives and puff through the winter landscape – it does
Winter Baking for Foodies not get more romantic than that.
Nürnberg/Bavaria, Dresden/Saxony
Mm, tasty... Christmas is the time for culinary indulgence. From germany.travel
In addition to almonds, nuts and chocolate, sweet pastries
are often served. The Nürnberger Lebkuchen are a tradition- DANK Chapter Milwaukee
al and world-famous gingerbread treat. A sweet dough made
from flour, honey, nuts and spices including cinnamon, cori- From Jane Nacker
ander and cardamom is formed into a flattened sphere, and
baked in the oven. This spiced delicacy goes back to the time
of Franciscan monks, who invented Lebkuchen in the 14th
century. Likewise, the Dresden Christmas Stollen is beloved
all around the world. According to a fixed recipe, flour, sul-
tanas, butter, almonds and all kinds of other ingredients and
spices are mixed into a heavy yeast dough, and then baked in
the oven. The Christmas Stollen has a long tradition and was
considered a “fasting pastry” in the Middle Ages. For those
who do not wish to bake their own, it is also possible to buy
this typical German delicacy at the Christmas markets that
take place all over the country in December. Few things are
more romantic than strolling through the festively lit mar-
kets in thick snowfall, drinking hot mulled wine and enjoy-
ing tasty treats at the market stalls.
White Wonderland
Harz/Lower Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt and Thuringia
Walks through snowy forests are like an expedition into
a fairy-tale world. One of the most popular low mountain
ranges for a winter excursion is the Harz. When thick can-
opies of snow rest on the spreading branches of the conifers
and icicles glisten in the winter sun, a magical world reveals
itself. Snow shoes are a popular way to avoid sinking into
the deep snow, and are available to loan on-site. Strapping
them on makes it easy to negotiate the romantic forest paths The DANK Milwaukee Folk Dancers were busy dancing
covered in deep snow. One particular highlight in the Harz at Oktoberfests. This picture is at Waters Edge on Delavan
Lake, Wisconsin
Page/Seite 6 German - American E-Newsletter February 2024
An Imposing Mountain Landscape
Majestic peaks, picturesque valleys – and a habitat for
thousands of animal and plant species. We introduce you to
the diversity of the German Alps.
Around one million people visit the Alps in the south of
Germany every year. The mountain range stretches across
several European countries. It is a region that is very popular
with tourists from all over the world due to the wide range
of leisure activities that can be pursued there, such as hiking,
mountain biking, skiing and rafting.
The Alps are one of the largest contiguous natural areas
in Europe, providing a habitat for 40,000 plant and animal
species. The water from the Alpine springs and glaciers feeds
numerous streams and rivers, which is why the Alps are
highly important in terms of Europe’s supply of water. But Rugged rocks: the Partnach Gorge in the Bavarian Alps is
climate change is putting the biodiversity of the animal and one of the deepest gorges in Germany. Some 700 metres long,
plant world at risk. Germany has been committed to climate it stretches along the Partnach river, which rushes through
action and environmental protection in the region for many the impressive rock faces of the gorge.
decades, also in connection with the Alpine Convention to-
gether with the European Union, Switzerland, France, Liech-
tenstein, Monaco, Italy, Austria and Slovenia.
Discover some of the most attractive destinations in the
German Alps:

Fairytale setting: the world-famous Neuschwanstein Cas-

tle is situated in Schwangau at the edge of the Alps.

On the summit: at 2,962 metres, the Zugspitze is the high-

est mountain in Germany.

Crystal-clear lake, picturesque church: adorned with red

onion domes and domed roofs, St. Bartholomew’s pilgrim-
The wild outdoors: nature conservation is the top pri- age church is situated by Lake Königsee.
ority in Berchtesgaden National Park. At 2,713 metres, the
Watzmann is the highest mountain in the national park. From deutschland.de
February 2024 German - American E-Newsletter
German Wurst: A Delightful Journey Through Germany’s Sausage Heritage
Germany’s culinary landscape is as diverse as its regions,
and at the heart of this diversity lies an iconic staple: the Ger-
man wurst (sausage). With a history steeped in tradition and
a flavor palette that ranges from the smoky to the savory, the
German wurst is more than just food—it’s a cultural symbol.
The Historical Roots of German Wurst
The history of German sausage dates back centuries, with
each region developing its unique variation. The wurst’s evo-
lution is intertwined with Germany’s cultural and historical
changes, reflecting the influences of different epochs and the
ingenuity of its people in utilizing local ingredients.
Types of German Wurst
1. Bratwurst: Perhaps the most famous, Bratwurst varies
significantly from region to region. The Nürnberg-
er Bratwurst, small and flavorful, and the Thüringer
Bratwurst, known for its distinctive spices, are among
the most renowned.
2. Weißwurst: A Bavarian specialty, Weißwurst is a mild
sausage made from veal and pork back bacon. Tradi-
tionally consumed before noon with sweet mustard,
it’s a staple of the Bavarian breakfast.
3. Blutwurst (Blood Sausage): A rich and hearty sausage,
Blutwurst is made with blood, meat, and various spic-
es. It’s a testament to the German philosophy of no-
waste in food preparation.
4. Knackwurst: Known for its crisp skin and juicy interi-
or, Knackwurst is often made from ground pork and
beef, seasoned with garlic.
5. Leberwurst (Liverwurst): A spreadable sausage made
from liver and other ingredients, Leberwurst is a pop-
ular delicacy on German bread.
6. Currywurst: A post-war creation, Currywurst is a
steamed, then fried sausage, typically cut into slices
and seasoned with curry ketchup. It’s a beloved street
food across Germany.
The Art of Making and Enjoying Wurst
The process of making German wurst is an art form, in-
volving carefully selected meats, precise seasoning, and tradi-
tional methods passed down through generations. Smoking
and curing are common, lending unique flavors and textures
to the sausages.
Regional Specialties and Recipes
Each region in Germany has its wurst specialties, often
accompanied by local recipes and preparation methods. For
Page/Seite 7
instance, in Bavaria, Weißwurst is traditionally boiled and
served with pretzels and mustard, while in Berlin, Curry-
wurst is often accompanied by fries.
Pairing Wurst with German Beverages
The experience of enjoying German wurst is incomplete
without the right beverage. Beers, particularly local brews,
are a popular choice. For example, a light Weizenbier pairs
wonderfully with Weißwurst, while a robust lager comple-
ments the flavors of a spicy Bratwurst.
Wurst in German Festivals and Traditions
Wurst plays a vital role in German festivals and traditions.
At Oktoberfest, various types of wurst are enjoyed with beer,
while Christmas markets often feature Bratwurst stalls. These
events showcase the integral role wurst plays in Germany’s
cultural and social life.
The Influence of German Wurst Worldwide
German immigrants have carried their wurst traditions
across the globe, influencing sausage-making practices and
introducing these flavors to new palates. Today, German
wurst can be found in many countries, often with a local
twist.
Sustainable Practices in Wurst Production
In recent years, there’s been a growing emphasis on sus-
tainability and ethical practices in the production of wurst.
This includes using locally sourced, organic meat and adopt-
ing environmentally friendly production methods.
Health and Nutrition
While wurst is a flavorful component of German cuisine,
it’s also important to consider its nutritional aspects. Many
varieties are high in protein, but they can also be rich in fat
and sodium. Moderation and balance are key when incorpo-
rating wurst into a healthy diet.
Cooking with Wurst: Recipes and Tips
German wurst is incredibly versatile in cooking. Beyond
the traditional methods of preparation, it can be incorpo-
rated into stews, casseroles, and even modern culinary cre-
ations. Recipes often include regional spices and ingredients,
showcasing the diversity of German cuisine.
Vegetarian and Vegan Alternatives
With the rise of vegetarian and vegan diets, there are now
wurst alternatives made from plant-based ingredients. These
products aim to replicate the texture and flavor of traditional
wurst, making the delicacy accessible to a broader audience.
German wurst is more than just a culinary delight; it’s a
journey through the rich tapestry of Germany’s history, re-
gions, and traditions. Whether you’re savoring a Bratwurst
at a local festival or experimenting with Weißwurst recipes at
home, each bite is a testament to the enduring legacy of Ger-
man sausage-making. From its historical roots to its modern
interpretations, the German wurst remains a beloved and in-
tegral part of German culture.
From germanculture.com
Page/Seite 8 German - American E-Newsletter February 2024

DANK Milwaukee mourns DANK Milwaukee mourns

the passing of the passing of

Adeline Leo John Fox

Kraenzler
January 15, 1926 -
January 14, 2024
(Nee Flemmer) Peacefully
passed away at her home on Sunday January 14, 2024 at
the age of 97. Beloved wife of the late Robert Kraenzler.
Loving mother of Werner (Laura) and Erik (Karen
Skoczynski) Kraenzler. Grandmother of Kari Kraenzler
and the late Kurt Kraenzler. Further survived by nieces,
nephews, other relatives and friends.
Adeline was a successful owner of Custom Draperies
Inc. in Greendale and a proud citizen of the United States.
Adeline was very involved with DANK and had been
on Regional Boards and helped start DANK Chapters.
She was proud to be a German-American!
1936 ~ 2024
Passed away on Saturday,
January 13, 2024 at the age of
87. Leo will be remembered
as a kind, thoughtful and joy-
ful person with a good sense of humor and positive out-
look. He will be greatly missed by his beloved family and
friends.
He lived a full life and had a quick passing, which is a
consolation and blessing. His family and friends shared
the joy of his 87 year long life. We mourn for our loss but
rejoice that he is in a better place.
Leo is survived by Irene (Breiseth) Fox, his loving wife
of 58 years, daughters Vicki Fox and Sue Fox, and brother
Hugo Fox. Further survived by many friends and rela-
tives.

Bierhall. Deli. Small Wine Maker. Brauhaus. Restaurant. Biergarten. Small

Small Distiller. Craft Sodas. Wine Maker. Small Distiller. Craft Sodas.

DANK MEETING 3RD

TUESDAY OF EACH
MONTH AT 6:30PM

LIVE
MUSIC
TUESDAY THURSDAY Tues, Wed,
Stammtisch Trivia Thur evening
& Sunday brunch
WEDNESDAY SUNDAY
Vinyl & Games World Music LIVE

“We are a little taste of Munich “German Tradition.

without the plane ticket!” Crafted in Michigan.”
642 Bridge St NW, GRAND RAPIDS • (616) 451-HALL 95 North Main CEDAR SPRINGS • (616) 696-BEER
www.GRBrauhaus.com www.CSBrew.com