News
German Society Honors Hans Steffen
If you’ve enjoyed a schnitzel at one of our festivals, purchased imported goodies at the Zion/Kickers Christkindlmarkt, participated in the free German language classes at the Kickers clubhouse, or have been lucky enough to go on a Kickers trip to Germany, you can thank Hans Steffen. These are just a few of Hans’ many contributions to our community. Last night the German Society of Maryland honored Hans for his endless devotion to keeping German American culture alive and well in Maryland. Herzlichen Glückwunsch Hans! Und danke schön!
Kickers’ Adult Team Currently in 1st Place
The adult team is 5 wins and 1 tie after their first six games in the Major Super Soccer League, Division 2; and in first place! They are very appreciative of those members who come out and support them on Sunday nights at Catonsville HS but would love to see more.
Stricker Monument Dedication
The German Society of Maryland commissioned sculptor Francesca Schuler Guerin to create a bust of founding member Brigadier General John Stricker for the Bicentennial of The War of 1812.
Commanded by General Stricker, the 3rd Brigade of the Md State Militia fought valiantly at the Battle of North Point successfully delaying the march of British troops until reinforcements could arrive to defend the City of Baltimore at Hampstead Hill (now Patterson Park). This battle along with failed bombardment of Ft McHenry was a turning point in the War of 1812.
During the Bicentennial the bust was lent to the State of Maryland for display at the North Point State Park Visitor’s Center and was also displayed at a ceremony at North Point State Battlefield.
Today the monument was officially unveiled at it’s permanent location next to the Zion Church of the City of Baltimore and near the future site of the German American Cultural Center of Maryland.
Director, Schuler School of Fine Arts
Pop-Up Biergartens Benefit Communities
The next time you crave a brat and a bier consider one of these biergartens. Not only will you satisfy your hunger for a taste of Germany you can lift your glass a little higher knowing the profits are going to good causes. Prost!
Since 2015, the Zion Church of the City of Baltimore has been hosting “Brats and Beer – Fridays in the Garden” on the last Friday each month from May to August. It’s a fun evening filled with good food and good friends. Staffed by volunteers, profits go to support the church known for preserving Baltimore’s German traditions including helping our less fortunate neighbors. Zion’s Social Ministry makes brown bag lunches available to anyone daily from 12 to 2 pm.
New this year the Maiensfel Biergarten has popped up at 319 N Paca Street on Saturdays, Noon – 10 pm, from July 2 through October 15th. It is a community fundraiser to benefit the St. Francis Neighborhood Center, a non-profit working to break the cycle of poverty.
Both organizations have nearby parking lots. See their websites for details as well as other special events.
