I would like to welcome each of you to this celebration of culture and heritage.  Every year passes and we gather to explore generations past with today as our focus.  I am very happy to share this year and our events with you.

Each year I try to bring along what experience has been gained and share in the fun that this event brings.  When I try to put in to words all of that, I often come back to the true purpose of our event. Family growth, it is that simple.  I watch each year as the young mature and they grow to have families of their own. I then watch their kids come and enjoy the fest and all it has to bring, the new life and the joy that comes with.

I trust that you will enjoy the fest.  I hope you will take a moment to share a memory with the next generation as you see them pass.  The memories gained here will last a lifetime for those you share them with.  I hope to visit with you this year and share in you celebration of community, culture and family.

Erich Himmel
President
United German American
Societies of Greater Chicago