Personal site of journalist, baker, and storyteller Tony Ganzer.
When most Americans think of Germany an image of a Bavarian probably comes to mind–Lederhosen, beer, funny hats…but that is not always the case, even for actual Bavarians. I produced this piece trying to find the truth of Bavarians with tongue planted firmly in cheek. It aired on Bayerischer Rundfunk (BR1.)
Continue reading “Stereotypes…stimmen nicht”
Language is always a sticking point in the German immigration debate. Many times politicians say immigrants need to learn better German, to fully integrate. But not all foreigners are told this. Entertainers, for example, seem to have a special status in German society, and imperfections are part of the charm. This feature was produced in German for Westdeutscher Rundfunk. Translation provided by Katie Ganzer.
Continue reading “German Language and Identity (auf Deutsch)”
My colleagues at WDR3 asked me to compare the cities of Cologne and Phoenix in terms of classical appreciation. It is not an easy task, but this report attempts to make the comparison fair and accurately. In short, Europeans are much more willing to pay for cultural activities through taxes, whereas American organizations hope the locals will pick up the tab.
English translation below
Continue reading “What is Classical Music worth to us?”
When the clock hits 11:11 on the 11 of November, Cologne becomes a party city, and costumed party-goers lose nearly all inhibitions until they drop. I ventured into the crowds and produced a short report with observations and musings from the belly of the beast. One thing was clear…there was much I had never seen nor experienced before. The report was spontaneous and impromptu, though still hopefully understandable.
**Translation provided by Katie Ganzer.
Continue reading “An American at Karneval”
Immigration is a big topic in Germany, and WDR (Westdeutscher Rundfunk) asked for my views as a journalist and American. I applied my reporting and experience to produce a short commentary. (English version included.)
Continue reading “The German Immigration Debate”