Just look at the real-time clip above and tell me you do not yearn for the Golden Nectar.
Prost.
Monday, September 22, 2008
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
It's Never Too Early to Plan ... Part II
As the start of Oktoberfest 2008 is just around the corner, I begin to yearn for that nice Maß of the Golden Nectar. I know we have recently frequented the Hofbrauhaus in Newport, KY and Las Vegas, but it is just not the same. So, since time always seems to fly as we gracefully move along in our years, I begin to think about planning for our 2009 sojourn. So, my current Top 10 serious questions begin to float to the top of the wort....
1. Is the group returning for our 8th adventure?
I sure hope so. I might even have two young Vozelinies who want to go.
2. When should we go?
Well, the schedule for The 'fest is 19 September - 4 October. I would suggest 25 September through 28 September, the middle weekend.
3. Who would be the Grand Pubah 2009?
I believe we anointed barbus in 2007, but he was somewhat hesitant. I wonder if he is really up to the challenge.
4. Is there a unique, never before been attempted Day Trip possible?
Kloster Weltenburg in 2005 was a great opportunity, but the weather "dampened" our spirits just a bit. I wonder if the Grand Puhba (whoever he may be) can set the bar so high that surpassing the excitement of the trip would be next to impossible?
5. Do we limit attendance to the core male Oktoberfestians, sort of a modified originals (+ barbus) reunion?
A novel approach (not withstanding my comment in answer #1).
6. Would another reserved table be on the agenda?
Would be nice. We could ask the Hotel Alfa again, and Herr Rang has said his Paulaner distributor friend could help.
7. Will the Dollar:Euro rate make life more affordable?
Absolutely. The Euro has reached its peak.
8. Should at least one of the Wiesn days start bright and early and last forever, much like our 2005 trip?
Sure, why not. Let's dedicate a day to sitting, drinking and visiting the pissorts.
9. Would the agenda include a pre-trip?
Right now, I don't think so, but I could be convinced otherwise. Part of my thought process could be changed based upon answers to #1 and #5.
10. Are we getting too old for this type of childish mayhem?
HELL NO ! ! ! !
So, please add your value. It will be very interesting to me to see who posts first, and most importantly, when.
The clock is ticking.
Prosit !
1. Is the group returning for our 8th adventure?
I sure hope so. I might even have two young Vozelinies who want to go.
2. When should we go?
Well, the schedule for The 'fest is 19 September - 4 October. I would suggest 25 September through 28 September, the middle weekend.
3. Who would be the Grand Pubah 2009?
I believe we anointed barbus in 2007, but he was somewhat hesitant. I wonder if he is really up to the challenge.
4. Is there a unique, never before been attempted Day Trip possible?
Kloster Weltenburg in 2005 was a great opportunity, but the weather "dampened" our spirits just a bit. I wonder if the Grand Puhba (whoever he may be) can set the bar so high that surpassing the excitement of the trip would be next to impossible?
5. Do we limit attendance to the core male Oktoberfestians, sort of a modified originals (+ barbus) reunion?
A novel approach (not withstanding my comment in answer #1).
6. Would another reserved table be on the agenda?
Would be nice. We could ask the Hotel Alfa again, and Herr Rang has said his Paulaner distributor friend could help.
7. Will the Dollar:Euro rate make life more affordable?
Absolutely. The Euro has reached its peak.
8. Should at least one of the Wiesn days start bright and early and last forever, much like our 2005 trip?
Sure, why not. Let's dedicate a day to sitting, drinking and visiting the pissorts.
9. Would the agenda include a pre-trip?
Right now, I don't think so, but I could be convinced otherwise. Part of my thought process could be changed based upon answers to #1 and #5.
10. Are we getting too old for this type of childish mayhem?
HELL NO ! ! ! !
So, please add your value. It will be very interesting to me to see who posts first, and most importantly, when.
The clock is ticking.
Prosit !
Wednesday, July 02, 2008
Anyone Listening?
While this isn't an Oktoberfest year, maybe we can use this for our Vienna trip.
What say you?
What say you?
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
It's Never Too Early to Plan
Well, 2008 is an off year for us routine Oktoberfesters, but I recently had a wild idea. I know, the difference between wild and stupid is a fine line; but please bear with me for a moment.
Next October 11 is Gregory's wedding day, and he has always wanted to go to Oktoberfest. So, I was thinking, maybe a bachelor party in Munich some time in late September. Just a small intimate outing with a few hundred thousand of our closest friends (or 4-5 real friends). I would also make an offer for some of his friends to join, but knowing their state of finances, I wouldn't expect any attendees. Maybe his Best Man/Best Friend since mom and dad seem to pay for almost anything anyway.
So..... would Gregory and I be the only attendees, or is anyone else willing (crazy) ? It's still a thought, but as we know, these trips are all about advanced planning.
Next October 11 is Gregory's wedding day, and he has always wanted to go to Oktoberfest. So, I was thinking, maybe a bachelor party in Munich some time in late September. Just a small intimate outing with a few hundred thousand of our closest friends (or 4-5 real friends). I would also make an offer for some of his friends to join, but knowing their state of finances, I wouldn't expect any attendees. Maybe his Best Man/Best Friend since mom and dad seem to pay for almost anything anyway.
So..... would Gregory and I be the only attendees, or is anyone else willing (crazy) ? It's still a thought, but as we know, these trips are all about advanced planning.
Friday, November 16, 2007
Starting the Off-Season Postings
One of the problems with Oktoberfest is it only occurs once a year. Even worse, for our entourage, we only go once every two years. My attempt with this blog will be to encourage year round participation, regardless of whether it is an attendance year or not.
With that said, there might be some special dispensation for next year because of Gregory's wedding. What does that mean? Maybe an off-year trip.
What say the wild ones of the bunch?
Who knows, by then, a beer might be back done to $10.00 a litre.
With that said, there might be some special dispensation for next year because of Gregory's wedding. What does that mean? Maybe an off-year trip.
What say the wild ones of the bunch?
Who knows, by then, a beer might be back done to $10.00 a litre.
Thursday, November 01, 2007
A Sad Day in Oktoberfest Land
As I watch the dismantling of the tents, I long for that next fresh Mass, which is only 687 days away.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Good times.
Oktoberfest 2007, a good time had by all. (actual picture from this year's festivities...totally.)
Friday, September 28, 2007
Oktoberfest 2007: In Retrospect
Well, I sit here today at the office wishing I had a nice Mas of the Golden Elixir. Since I don't, I'll just reflect on our latest sojourn.
It was a success. Everyone is accounted for. There were no injuries (except for maybe Cathy's forehead Friday night). And most importantly, there were no arrests.
The weather was Wundervoll ! ! Lots of sun, warm, and no rain. Please thank The Grand Puhba for these arrangements.
The trip to Braustuberl Tergensee was a hit as well. Not only was it a new venue, but the town and scenery were great. And...... it was the only trip with ALL Oktoberfestians. Which leads us to my next point...
While the group was smaller than 2005 (10 people vs. 17 people), it still was difficult (and frustrating) at times to manage. Maybe the next Grand Puhba will have better success (or at least less frustration).
The reserved table at Paulaner was good and bad. First the bad... The tables were much smaller than those on the main floor, and they were crammed very tightly together. Who would have thought that the tables on the floor actually afford you some room. In addition, most of the people in the reserved balcony area seemed a little too reserved for us. No singing, no partying, and you weren't even allowed to be on the benches. YUCK ! ! ! ! The good.... It guarantees entrance ! ! ! ! If the tent had been closed, we would still have gotten in. So we were able to utilize our included beer tokens and coupons, and then scout out room on the main floor. All in all, it appears that the consensus is to try it again next time. ACTION ITEM FOR DAN ! !
While we always say "this is the last Oktoberfest", somehow these trips keep happening. I look forward to being a follower next time, and having the new Grand Puhba lead the way. Who will it be? BarleyMan who was unfortunately missing, or potentially the first international Grand Puhba, Barbus. While Barbus was elected during our final dinner in Munich, there seems to be some controversy about the type of ballot (not secret, hanging chads, etc). Barbus still purports that "if nominated, he will not run, if elected, he will not serve". We shall see.
I'll close for now with a final thought.....
The Prost was with us.
It was a success. Everyone is accounted for. There were no injuries (except for maybe Cathy's forehead Friday night). And most importantly, there were no arrests.
The weather was Wundervoll ! ! Lots of sun, warm, and no rain. Please thank The Grand Puhba for these arrangements.
The trip to Braustuberl Tergensee was a hit as well. Not only was it a new venue, but the town and scenery were great. And...... it was the only trip with ALL Oktoberfestians. Which leads us to my next point...
While the group was smaller than 2005 (10 people vs. 17 people), it still was difficult (and frustrating) at times to manage. Maybe the next Grand Puhba will have better success (or at least less frustration).
The reserved table at Paulaner was good and bad. First the bad... The tables were much smaller than those on the main floor, and they were crammed very tightly together. Who would have thought that the tables on the floor actually afford you some room. In addition, most of the people in the reserved balcony area seemed a little too reserved for us. No singing, no partying, and you weren't even allowed to be on the benches. YUCK ! ! ! ! The good.... It guarantees entrance ! ! ! ! If the tent had been closed, we would still have gotten in. So we were able to utilize our included beer tokens and coupons, and then scout out room on the main floor. All in all, it appears that the consensus is to try it again next time. ACTION ITEM FOR DAN ! !
While we always say "this is the last Oktoberfest", somehow these trips keep happening. I look forward to being a follower next time, and having the new Grand Puhba lead the way. Who will it be? BarleyMan who was unfortunately missing, or potentially the first international Grand Puhba, Barbus. While Barbus was elected during our final dinner in Munich, there seems to be some controversy about the type of ballot (not secret, hanging chads, etc). Barbus still purports that "if nominated, he will not run, if elected, he will not serve". We shall see.
I'll close for now with a final thought.....
The Prost was with us.
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Did the Oktoberfesters make it home?
Did they survive? We haven't heard from them in a while...
I hear the Dayton Liver Reunification Center is working overtime.
I hear the Dayton Liver Reunification Center is working overtime.
Monday, September 24, 2007
Secret of the Brown Envelope Revealed
The mystery surrounding the envelope has been solved. Prior to leaving for Oktoberfest, The Grand Puhba was in secret consultations with hotel management, and the result of this international statesmanship was a Reserved Table at the Paulaner Tent ! ! !
That's right Paulaner Girl.. we had reserved seats, bier tokens, and coupons for more bier and food at your namesake tent. A great time was had by all.... Wish you could have been there.
BarleyMan... we missed your guiding influence, and look forward to our next sojourn with you in charge. I must warn you, however. Barbus is very excited about being the first International Grand Puhba. We have even anointed him Grand Puhba Elect. I suspect he would relinquish his title in honor of you, though.
Anyway, here's a link to all of the photos The Grand Puhba took during the escapades at Paulaner. These have not been edited or resized yet, so they are large. Be patient while viewing. A consolidated collection of photos and videos will follow shortly after our return.
http://s164.photobucket.com/albums/u27/kvozel/oktoberfest_2007/?start=all
Until we meet again.... May The Prost Be With You.
That's right Paulaner Girl.. we had reserved seats, bier tokens, and coupons for more bier and food at your namesake tent. A great time was had by all.... Wish you could have been there.
BarleyMan... we missed your guiding influence, and look forward to our next sojourn with you in charge. I must warn you, however. Barbus is very excited about being the first International Grand Puhba. We have even anointed him Grand Puhba Elect. I suspect he would relinquish his title in honor of you, though.
Anyway, here's a link to all of the photos The Grand Puhba took during the escapades at Paulaner. These have not been edited or resized yet, so they are large. Be patient while viewing. A consolidated collection of photos and videos will follow shortly after our return.
http://s164.photobucket.com/albums/u27/kvozel/oktoberfest_2007/?start=all
Until we meet again.... May The Prost Be With You.
Saturday, September 22, 2007
Munich Day 1
Traveling team of Oktoberfestians has arrived and are safely ensconced at the center of all activities, the Hotel Alfa.
Shortly after arrival, The Grand Puhba was seen entering a secret room with hotel management. After some time behind closed doors, The Grand Puhba was caught leaving the room with a mysterious brown envelope. The envelope was reported to contain secret icons of drinking. This appears to be something special that only grand puhbas have access to. We will continue the investigation and report back at a later time.
As is usual on our first day, we did make it to the Hofbrauhaus. Needless to say, a good time was had by all. And as usual, we took our first victim.
May The Prost Be With You !
Shortly after arrival, The Grand Puhba was seen entering a secret room with hotel management. After some time behind closed doors, The Grand Puhba was caught leaving the room with a mysterious brown envelope. The envelope was reported to contain secret icons of drinking. This appears to be something special that only grand puhbas have access to. We will continue the investigation and report back at a later time.
As is usual on our first day, we did make it to the Hofbrauhaus. Needless to say, a good time was had by all. And as usual, we took our first victim.
May The Prost Be With You !
Thursday, September 20, 2007
23:47 in Amsterdam.....
Off to the Fatherland at 06:32 tomorrow. The next post will be in German :-)
Sorry BarleyMan... Pictures not permitted in the Red Light District.
May The Prost Be With You.
Sorry BarleyMan... Pictures not permitted in the Red Light District.
May The Prost Be With You.
PROOF ! ! ! !
The Boys R Back In Town.
As previously posted, we have made it to Amsterdam. Being Amsterdam, most of the pictures are not for public consumption. However, this proves we are all present and accounted for...
As previously posted, we have made it to Amsterdam. Being Amsterdam, most of the pictures are not for public consumption. However, this proves we are all present and accounted for...
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
UPDATE on Doctor Visit
For any Oktoberfesters that care (not many that I can attest to), I have just returned from my visit with Dr. Bad Juan. If you are at all inclined to know the outcome (which isn't evident by the blog activity), either post here or send me an email.
May The Prost Be With You !
May The Prost Be With You !
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Grand Puhba Still Undecided
While I am still undecided on my status, check here, I am leaning towards attending. My biggest concern is my muscle issue, but if this beautiful blond bombshell can handle it, why can't I?
Final decision to be made tomorrow evening after consultations with our local soothsayer, Bad Juan.
May The Prost Be With You !
Final decision to be made tomorrow evening after consultations with our local soothsayer, Bad Juan.
May The Prost Be With You !
Monday, September 10, 2007
Grand Puhba Status Still Undetermined
Please reference this post detailing the issue that I, your glorious Grand Puhba am faced with.
Because of the Friday evening LobsterFest activities, I was unable to make my Saturday doctor appointment, so my status for the trip is still undetermined. While I appreciate the encouragement offered by FlyingDan, Barbus and BarleyMan, I was disappointed in the lack of third party consultative activities during the 'fest (not to be confused with THEEE FEST !! ! !). There was nothing to assure me that my condition would not be life threatening, or at least seriously harmful to myself or others. So with our departure to the Fatherland quickly approaching, I am facing a major decision point.
I now believe that while this is a medical issue, there may not be anything that a doctor can do for me. I need to work this out myself with the cooperation and encouragement of friends and family; especially my fellow Oktoberfestians. Barbus' recommendation of the medical help available in Amsterdam may be what convinces me to travel. The "up and down" therapy offered by these experts may very well mitigate the issues, and allow me to continue the trip to Munchen. In addition, the train ride from Amsterdam may also offer an opportunity for rest and relaxation, ensuring that my arm could indeed manage the strain that will be placed upon it.
I hope to make a "go no-go" decision this Wednesday evening after treatment with the local golden elixor known as "Bad Juans".
May The Prost Be With You !
Because of the Friday evening LobsterFest activities, I was unable to make my Saturday doctor appointment, so my status for the trip is still undetermined. While I appreciate the encouragement offered by FlyingDan, Barbus and BarleyMan, I was disappointed in the lack of third party consultative activities during the 'fest (not to be confused with THEEE FEST !! ! !). There was nothing to assure me that my condition would not be life threatening, or at least seriously harmful to myself or others. So with our departure to the Fatherland quickly approaching, I am facing a major decision point.
I now believe that while this is a medical issue, there may not be anything that a doctor can do for me. I need to work this out myself with the cooperation and encouragement of friends and family; especially my fellow Oktoberfestians. Barbus' recommendation of the medical help available in Amsterdam may be what convinces me to travel. The "up and down" therapy offered by these experts may very well mitigate the issues, and allow me to continue the trip to Munchen. In addition, the train ride from Amsterdam may also offer an opportunity for rest and relaxation, ensuring that my arm could indeed manage the strain that will be placed upon it.
I hope to make a "go no-go" decision this Wednesday evening after treatment with the local golden elixor known as "Bad Juans".
May The Prost Be With You !
Friday, September 07, 2007
Confident
I beleive that the Lobsterfest will get you back into shape. Remember that minimal spillage of beer can be tolerated as long as someone brings a lap dog so they can lick the mess clean.
EDITED by The Grand Puhba....
A Lap Dog like this?
EDITED by The Grand Puhba....
A Lap Dog like this?
Thursday, September 06, 2007
Another Oktoberfester May Drop Out
It is with the heaviest of hearts that I must announce another casualty of this year's trip. Yours truly, The Grand Puhba, will probably withdraw from the roster this weekend. After being deeply immersed in the planning and euphoria leading up to this bi-annual sojourn, you have no idea how disheartening it will be to not be part of the culminating activities (especially with the earlier withdrawal of BarleyMan).
Unlike BarleyMan, I can share with you the reasons for my withdrawal; a medical issue has arisen. I have a doctor's appointment Saturday morning, and it will be at that time when a final decision will be made with regards to my attendance. I can tell you that the reason is muscular related.
I am concerned about my ability to properly and effectively manage the repetitive "up and down" arm motion required during the long hours of Maß manipulation. I have not had sufficient practice in the past few months, and like any serious athlete, the lack of appropriate training can lead to life threatening injuries. I can envision at best sore forearm muscles (the Flexor Carpi Radialis and Extensor Carpi Radialis). At worse, this could lead to over compensation and tearing of the predominant biceps muscle (Biceps Brachii). This could even lead to uncontrolled shaking of the hand, resulting in bier spillage, or even dropping of the Maß (a capital offense during these hallowed times).
I have scheduled my doctor's visit for Saturday morning so that some additional training and third party expert consolations can occur tomorrow during LobsterFest. I take my responsibilities as Grand Puhba seriously, and I hope that those in attendance at LobsterFest will provide as much comfort and subject matter expertise as possible. Hopefully with the support of all, I will get through this and be able to cancel my Saturday appointment.
May the Prost with with you !
Unlike BarleyMan, I can share with you the reasons for my withdrawal; a medical issue has arisen. I have a doctor's appointment Saturday morning, and it will be at that time when a final decision will be made with regards to my attendance. I can tell you that the reason is muscular related.
I am concerned about my ability to properly and effectively manage the repetitive "up and down" arm motion required during the long hours of Maß manipulation. I have not had sufficient practice in the past few months, and like any serious athlete, the lack of appropriate training can lead to life threatening injuries. I can envision at best sore forearm muscles (the Flexor Carpi Radialis and Extensor Carpi Radialis). At worse, this could lead to over compensation and tearing of the predominant biceps muscle (Biceps Brachii). This could even lead to uncontrolled shaking of the hand, resulting in bier spillage, or even dropping of the Maß (a capital offense during these hallowed times).
I have scheduled my doctor's visit for Saturday morning so that some additional training and third party expert consolations can occur tomorrow during LobsterFest. I take my responsibilities as Grand Puhba seriously, and I hope that those in attendance at LobsterFest will provide as much comfort and subject matter expertise as possible. Hopefully with the support of all, I will get through this and be able to cancel my Saturday appointment.
May the Prost with with you !
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