Police Action Misguided and Pointless.

Unable to solve any burglaries, assaults, suspicious deaths, murders or other genuine crimes, the fearless Berlin Police forces conducted a daring raid against the inebriated and unarmed revelers at the El Dorado Club. Oberwachtmeister Danitz, the celebrated "Butcher of Mayday", proudly announced the success of the daring and danger fraught operation, in which largely harmless people, such as noted American Philanthropist Walter Gedenspire, were arrested and given "warning sentences" for petty violations of drug statutes.

The Police will, no doubt, hide behind their usual excuse (We do not make the laws, we cannot choose which to enforce, we just enforce them all). In fact they selectively enforce the laws as a matter of routine. If they dislike you, your opinions or perhaps just the color of your cap, they find a law to harass you over. If they cannot find one, they make one up on the spot. Or after the fact. Whether brutalizing citizens on the streets, breaking into private homes, throwing prisoners down flights of stairs or collecting "fees" to release them, our Police force is a monument to dishonest incompetence. You want to be safe? Buy a pistol.

The "Great Experiment" in America has clearly demonstrated the futility of trying to enforce laws regulating behaviors without victims. All it does is provide criminals with opportunity, and the Police with a pretense to claim they are "doing something". Go solve a real crime.

Police Investigate Helstein Murder

In the early morning hours of Tuesday, Nov 22, police received a call that someone was lying under the Schloss Brucke. The officer who investigated found the dead body of a woman, tentatively identified as Stephanie Helstein. She had apparently been murdered. No further details were immediately available. Anyone having any information regarding the crime should contact the police.

USA Financial Markets Collapse: Impact on Europe Uncertain

Following a short lived rally after the disastrous 11% market decline of October 24th, the American financial markets collapsed on the 29th. Lead downward by the stock exchange in New York, which lost another 13% of its market value on the 28th followed by a further 11% decline the next day, American investors went on a panicked selling spree that evaporated over $30B(US) of market value in less than two days. American financiers, among them the Rockefellers and the Durants, were said to be purchasing vast amounts of equities in an effort to stabilize the markets, but stock prices continued to decline at a record pace on record volumes.

The scene on New York's Wall Street as the US stock
markets collapsed on October 29th.
(AP Photo)

Internationally the price of gold soared to $120 (US) per ounce from its pre-crash price of $80 (US) and European bourses fell slightly as investors, banks and governments began to assess the damage. In London, noted economist John Maynard Keynes issued a statement saying that, "The extraordinary speculation on Wall Street in past months has driven up the rate of interest to an unprecedented level." He went on to suggest that the crash was only a severe correction to these speculative excesses and that once the speculators had been "driven out" prices would quickly stabilize at a sustainable level.

In Germany, reaction was muted but concern over the value of investments in American stocks and the effect on American imports of German products was beginning to take hold. Economics Minister Robert Schmidt released a statement yesterday urging calm and echoing Keynes earlier statement that the precipitous decline was merely a correction and that princes would soon stabilize.

Economics Minster Robert Schmidt
arrives for a Cabinet meeting on
October 29
(AP Photo)

Meanwhile in Washington, US President Herbert Hoover reiterated his strong support for the pending Hawley-Smoot Tariff Bill, which is expected to raise US import duties on over 20,000 agricultural and industrial products, including many from Germany, to near record levels. Canada, Britain, France and Germany have been strongly urging the measure not be adopted, but it is poised for final passage by the US Senate in the next few weeks. Hoover's statement that the market downturn would not change his support for the bill is said to have depressed prices further on the 29th, with investors concerned about Canadian and European retaliation. German President Paul von Hindenberg had made a personal appeal to Hoover to reconsider his support for the legislation but to no apparent effect.

With one more trading day before the markets close for the weekend, the eyes of the world are on Wall Street and the American President. As calls for calm seemingly fall on deaf ears, investors have moved from nervousness to a full scale panic, suggesting that the "hands off" approach favored by most governments and economists is not having a salutary effect.

German markets have declined an average of 6% over the past 2 days.

World Reaction to Stresemann Death

Condolences poured in from around the Nation and the World in reaction to the death on Monday of German Foreign Minister and Statesman Gustav Stresemann. In Geneva, the Polish Delegate to the League of Nations arose to deliver a reflective eulogy at the session opening, and Dr. von Schubert, the Delegate from Germany, received official expressions of sorrow throughout the day. Helen Dukas, secretary to the noted Berlin University physicist Albert Einstein, wrote an obituary in the Berliner Zeitung expressing the hope that Stresemann's tireless work would be carried on and not forgotten. NSDAP Chairman Adolph Hitler said that "given the dire circumstances with which he was faced, no man could have done more than Gustav Stresemann."

Dignitaries from across Europe attend the funeral service for German
Foreign Minister Gustav Stresemann.
(BAZ Photo)

Chancellor Hermann Meuller presided at the official State Funeral, delivering a lengthy speech describing Stresemann's many successes and contributions, and announcing that the former Chancellor and Foreign Minister would be interred in the Luisenstadt Cemetery at Südstern in Berlin Kreuzberg, and that a suitable monument, including work by the German sculptor Hugo Lederer, would be erected in his memory by the Republic.

Meanwhile, Dr. Julius Curtius (DVP) was named to succeed Stresemann as Foreign Minister. Curtius was the former Economics Minister.

Gustav Stresemann Dead at 51

German Foreign Minister, former Chancellor and Nobel Laureate Gustav Stresemann died suddenly this morning from an apparent stroke, leaving the country in shock and the world uncertain of the political repercussions. Widely recognized as the premier statesmen of Germany throughout the 1920s, Stresemann's signature achievement was the eventual reconciliation of Germany with its former enemy France, an achievement for which he shared the Nobel Peace Prize with his French counterpart, Aristide Briand. He served as Chancellor of the German Republic from August to November, 1923, and subsequently as Foreign Minister, where he arguably made his most significant and lasting contributions.

Foreign Minister Gustav Stresemann
Dead of a stroke at age 51.
(BAZ Photo Archives)

Born in Berlin in 1878, Stresemann's parents owned a brewery and small beerhall. He entered the University of Berlin in 1897 and studied Political Economy, which was to serve him well throughout his career. During his University career he was active in the Burschenschaften movement and was Editor of the Allgemeine Deutsche Universitäts-Zeitung. He received his Doctorate from the University of Leipzig. 
Upon graduation he founded the Saxon Manufacturer's Association and was married in 1903 to Kate Kleefeld, the daughter of a prominent Berlin businessman.

His first political success was his election to the town council of Dresden in 1906, and he entered the Reichstag in 1907 for the Liberal Party from Saxony. He was not re-elected in 1912 and returned to private life to found the German-American Economic Association. Excused from military service for health reasons, Stresemann returned to the Reichstag in 1914 and became leader of the Liberal Party in 1917. He generally supported socialist welfare programs at home and an aggressive, economically based policy abroad. In 1918, he helped to form the German People's Party (DVP) and served as "loyal opposition" to the formation of the Wiemar Republic. He made little secret of being a monarchist by inclination.

Stresemann in September with his wife
Käthe and son Wolfgang
(BAZ Phot Archives)

Stresemann was appointed Chancellor during the Ruhr Crisis of 1923, and served in that role for only 3 months. After the collapse of his government, he was asked to remain as Foreign Minister, a post that he held until his death. His accomplishments as Foreign Minister were legion and included the reduction of German reparations payments thought the Dawes Plan, the reorganization of the Reichsbank, favorable negotiation of the Lucarno Treaty and the Rapello Treaty with the Soviet Union. He pursued an aggressive economic campaign to redefine Germany's borders with Poland, making often unpopular concessions to France in order to obtain a freer hand in the east.

The Mueller government has not yet announced a successor at the Foreign Ministry, nor have plans been announced for memorial services.

BAZ Applauds New Policy on Multiple Home Ownership

The German government announced today a new policy addressed at relieving the severe housing shortages that have plagued Berlin in recent years. In its official announcement, a government spokesman said, "From now onwards, people living in Berlin will be restricted to renting only one living space (apartment, house, shed, etc), unless another apartment has been available for over ten (10) days, in which case they may rent this, as well."

The BAZ applauds this long overdue decision and hopes that it will be strictly and immediately enforced. There is no place for real estate hoarding or speculation when so many people are in need of even simple shelter. With winter rapidly approaching, we are gratified that this decision was not further delayed. An exemption was included for those who already own more than one dwelling (a mistake in our view), along with an appeal to reconsider whether or not multiple units were really needed. We won't hold our breath.

Like any modern City, Berlin has its privileged class, who in general approach life with an attitude of entitlement. "I've been living here for six months/one year/two years/since Christ was in diapers, so I am entitled to cut to the front of any line and have first choice at everything." Their "wants" become "needs". (As in I "need" more prims.) While the legitimate needs of the less fortunate get brushed aside with no more concern than swatting an annoying fly. This is the attitude that causes revolutions. This sensible policy will also prevent the practice of grabbing up housing units and reserving them for one's friends, creating "ghettos" of doppelgangers.

The BAZ is not often a fan of government policy. But in this case, we support it with enthusiasm.

Kollwitz at the Glitzern und Schicksal

The Galerie Glitzern und Schicksal, at the corner of Friedrichstrasse and Am Nussbaum, is a local gem that often seems to get lost in the shadow of the more well marketed Schloss Museum. So it is a bit of irony that the stirring exhibit of etchings and engravings from contemporary female artist Kathe Kollwitz may be a little obscured in the shadow of the Magritte exhibit that occupies the ground floor. While taking nothing away from the justifiably renowned Belgian surrealist, Kollwitz's dark vision of the war years and their immediate aftermath are powerful and compelling. Perhaps they are tucked away discreetly on the upper floor as a gift to those who climb the stairs.

For those of us who lived through those horrifying years, on whichever side of things, her work is simply impossible to turn away from, however much you may ache to do so. For those who saw The Great War only in newsreels and newspapers, it gives the lie to the increasingly popular notion that war can be noble and valorous. "The Sacrifice" is especially horrific, depicting a mother offering her infant child to the "great cause" of ruin and death.

The next time you are in the neighborhood, take time to stop in to the Galerie for a visit. And climb the stairs.

City Telephone System Opens to Businesses, Public

After a surprisingly brief testing period, Deutsche Post has announced that it will immediately make access to the city telephone system available to both businesses and residents. While service applications are open now, subscribers are cautioned that it may require several days wait for equipment installation and connection to the communication grid.

Two services are offered. A private line can be installed at any residence or business for a fee of 299RL, allowing the station owner to speak to any other telephone connected to the grid. An Answering Service intended for business users is also available. For a 349RL installation fee, Answering Service subscribers will not be able to use the phone for placing calls or normal telephone conversation. Instead, all callers will have their message transcribed and forwarded on to the business owner by Deutsche Post. Both services carry a 25RL monthly subscription fee and include an updated listing in the City Directory including telephone number.

Public use phones continue to be available for a charge of 1 RL per call at the Postamt at Alexanderplatz #3, at the Cafe Elektric and the public booth on the Unter den Linden.

Police Raid Unlicensed Distillery

Fischerstrasse #25, boarded closed after this morning's
Police raid on what is alleged to have been an illegal
distillery operation.
(BAZ Staff Photo)

In a scene more usual in Chicago, Berlin Police raided the site of what they allege to have been an illegal alcohol distilling operation early this morning, closing the site at Fischerstrassse #25 and making one arrest.

According to the arresting officer, Wachtmeister Pinden, a Herr Ritchie Rich "was arrested in connection with an illegal distillery in a house on Fischerstrasse". Pinder added that an investigation was ongoing and he could not comment further. But when asked if the alleged distillery was producing absinthe the officer responded that "We can't be entirely certain until we get the lab reports. More than that I can't say."

Requests to interview Herr Rich, who was in custody pending a bail hearing, were referred to Oberwachtmeister Danitz, who was not immediately available. Wachtmeister Pinder would not speculate when the prisoner might be made available for comment or when a bail hearing might occur. The name of Pierre Webb has come up as a "person of interest" in connection with the investigation, but so far there is nothing to tie Webb to the incident.

The scene of the alleged illegal distillery is directly below the city's most notorious brothel, providing ample evidence that one disreputable business attracts others.

Deutsche Post Publishes Directory

With the long anticipated arrival of modern telephone service to central Berlin, Deutesche Post has announced the publication of its first City Directory. The Berliner Adressbuch 1929 is a comprehensive listing of names, addresses and, ultimately, telephone numbers for all businesses and residents in the Berlin Mitte. The book is handsomely done, and gives a current directory Notecard.

The directory is available for purchase from Deutsche Post for 25 Reichslinden, and purchases are on a subscription basis. This means that subscribers will receive the latest updates at no charge.

J&C, the BAZ's publisher, still makes its Berlin Business Directory available for free at http://berlinprojectbusinesses.blogspot.com/ , but the Deutsche Post version is more up-to-date.

El Dorado Not Quite Golden .... Yet

The El Dorado offers a spacious dance floor, a cozy balcony
and a pleasantly accessible stage.
(BAZ Staff Photo)

- by K. I. Jaidov

If you weren't able to attend the long anticipated opening of the El Dorado Club, don't despair. You didn't really miss all that much. It was most likely impossible for anyone or anything to live up to the lofty expectations that had been set for opening day, and it didn't. The event provided a new venue for the same familiar people to do the same familiar things in the same familiar ways. A sort of Der Keller Happy Hour with lower light, nicer dresses and bawdier humor.

Still, the new club fairly throbs with potential. It is lit up enough to see, but dark enough to to keep things as interesting as one might wish for. It lacks much in the way of seating, but this may encourage people to dance and mingle instead of planting themselves on a stool at the bar. There's room enough for a lot of dancers, and the stage is small and set low, creating a sense of connection between audience and performers. As a cabaret venue it should prove far superior to the more formal Odeon. A cozy balcony rings the upper level, providing a bit of privacy along with open views of the activity below.

Fr Yardly and Fr Morales officially open the El Dorado.
(BAZ Staff Photo)

There was, by Berlin standards, a large crowd - over thirty at one point. Short speeches from Sonatta Morales and Jo Yardley marked the official opening of the club and entertainment was  provided by Lydia Yalin and Myron Byron. A most unfortunate server glitch brought the festivities to a sudden, albeit temporary halt, from which they soon made a resilient and good natured recovery. Alts were very much in evidence, although nothing much went on that you could not have told you mother about - or had her along to see.

"Masculine Women and Feminine Men"? Not on opening
day, when a mostly traditional crowed packed the club.
(BAZ Staff Photo)

What was missing, and what we may reasonably hope will assert itself over the next few weeks, was any sense of a unique and different personality. In a sense, the club may have been victimized by the reputation of its historical predecessor. "Notorious" takes time. It isn't something that anyplace or anyone starts out as because of good marketing. The El Dorado has what it takes to achieve notoriety. Or perhaps something else altogether. As the crowd of curious voyeurs gives way to one of more regular and devoted followers, "The Golden One" will see its own style emerge. There is no reason to think that it will not become the place to be (if not to be seen) in central Berlin. Give it a week for the dust to settle, and then stop in and decide for yourself.

Spy Noir Returns!

[Rampant speculation that the mysterious Spy Noir was retired to his secret headquarters in a large fir tree in the Schwartzenwald or enlisted in the notorious Légion étrangère has turned out to be unfounded, as this typed mansucript found slipped under the BAZ's door clearly proves. - Ed. ]




He didn't mind the beatings. They came with the territory, and the big Wachtmeister - Manbitz, he was called - tended to go easy for a few weeks after he'd taken it out on some poor bastard's hide. Put some lead in his pants most likely. But the previous week, they'd taken a liberty. The bastards had bathed him.

Into the meat wagon with him and off down Am Nussbaum, the familiar shuddering as they crossed the little metal bridge that spanned the Spree, and he stoically preparing to take the inevitable kicking. But instead they'd hung a left at the junction with Friedrichstrasse that had sent him rattling around the back of the van like a dried pea in a tobacco tin and come to a screeching halt outside the public baths.

A nun with a face like a boiled pudding, her big, raw hands clasping an empty wicker basket, stood in the entrance. The two cops marched him past her, stripped him and, each taking an arm, ran him to the edge of the pool and pitched him in.

The water was cold, and he was out of his depth. He waited for his life to flash before him, but instead all he could think about was a dog with a broken back that someone had thrown into the Spree one day, and how, its life ebbing away, it had struggled still, until its head had disappeared beneath a slick of oil that shimmered on the surface in the late evening sunshine.

Eventually his feet found tiled floor. The cops tossed a large sponge to within a metre of him and ordered him to wash himself. That indignity done with, they dressed him in corduroy trousers and a flannel shirt and took him back to the police station, where they gave him a plate of blutwurst and bread, an enamel cup of ersatz coffee and a cigarette.

"Where's Manbitz?" he'd asked nervously.

"Visiting his maiden aunt," came the reply, accompanied by laughter and knowing looks.

After his lunch, they allowed him to sleep a while in an empty cell, and then they took him up top again to where the nun he'd seen at the bath house was waiting with his clothes - the ragged woollen combinations and his old German Army uniform, damp still, but indisputably clean.

"You may thank Father Hillandale for his intervention," the nun had said.

"Go to hell," he'd replied.

And now here he was, back in his old spot at the rear of the Berlin Alexanderplatz Station, undergoing something of an existential crisis. He was so used to the smell of his own body, the sourness that rose from his clothing, that its absence made him wonder if he were gradually fading away.

Business certainly hadn't been good in the time since they'd taken their liberty. A clean beggar lacked authenticity. A clean beggar lacked essence. And he knew that the few coins in his upturned cap wouldn't keep him in drink for more than a few days. He instinctively felt for the brown bottle in his jacket pocket, felt its lightness, and decided that things were looking serious.

A man and two women, the three fashionably dressed and smoking French cigarettes, passed by his spot, one of the women first stopping then approaching, reaching into her purse for a pfennig.

“I suppose he must be the local colour,” said the man. He was tall and handsome, with dark hair worn slightly longer than was the fashion. “What are you going to give the lady for her coin then? A song? A dance? A tall story? Come on fellow, stir yourself!”

“Oh leave him alone,” said the woman. She was wearing a blue silk dress and a cloche hat. Her face was was obscured by shadow as she was standing with the streetlamp at her back. “Look, he’s an army veteran, and he’s got a bad leg.” She fumbled in her purse again and brought out a larger coin which she placed in his cap.  “Sir, is there anything we can do for you?”

“Yes,” he replied, “Get out of my damned light.”

The man laughed. “Just like Diogenes, eh? Well that's all the thanks you're going to get! Come on, let’s go. The night is young, and the only purpose of fellows like him is to allow us to thank God that we’re not them.”

He and the second female made off down Am Nussbaum, he allowing his hand to stray to her behind and she complaining unconvincingly, slapping him away and giggling like a child.

The woman who had given him the coin began to follow, but then stopped and turned, and the light from the lamp shone just for a moment full on her face.  Words for him were weapons, designed to cut or bludgeon or unbalance, but the ones he had composed for her seemed to die in his throat in an instant.

He nodded almost imperceptibly and reached for his bottle.

El Dorado Finally Glitters

The long empty El Dorado Club will open to the public Saturday afternoon,
30-July-1929 at 1:00pm local (SLT) time.
(BAZ Staff Photo)

El Dorado is Spanish for "The Golden One", and expectations are high that Berlins newest entertainment and nightlife venue will be just that. In what may be the longest running tease on the Berlin entertainment scene, the
premier of Sonatta Morales' El Dorado Club seems to have finally arrived. Located at Motzstrasse #15, just east of the Main Rail Station, the club has been an empty shell for years. But all that changes on Saturday when the Grand Premier arrives at 13:00 hours SLT.

While the club is widely known to target a homosexual and "alternative" crowd, we can expect everyone to be in attendance Saturday, if only to gawk.

This addition to the Berlin entertainment scene should bring life to an oft neglected section of the city and draw visitors and tourists to the nightlife spectacle that most people anticipate the El Dorado will become. Don't miss the opening!

NDL's Bremen Sets Speed Record on Maiden Transatlantic Voyage

The SS Bremen, sailing for the German Norddeutsch Lloyd (NDL) line, arrived in New York City on 16 July, 1929, just four days, 17 hours, and 42 minutes after departing from Bremerhaven. Constructed in Bremen by Deutsche Schiff un Maschinebau, AG, the Bremen was launched in August of last year by German President Paul von Hindenberg. This was her first transatlantic journey, and was made at an average speed of almost 28 knots (51.5kph), enough to wrest the westbound crossing record from the Cunard Line's RMS Mauritania.

The SS Bremen in October, 1928, shortly after passing her
initial sea trials.
(Norddeutsch Lloyd Line photo)

A second record was set on the same voyage when a Heinkle HE-12 seaplane piloted by Jobst von Studnitz was launched from a catapult on the deck of the Bremen just a few hours before it's arrival in New York with a number of mailbags. This marked the first time mail was carried by a ship-launched plane for delivery before the ship's arrival.

Because of the speed of the crossing, NDL says that it plans to provide weekly transatlantic service utilizing the Bremen and her sister ship, Europa, an operation that has previously required three ships to maintain. In maritime circles, the two ships are widely considered to be the most modern liners in the world. The high speeds and the comfort and luxury level on board make high demands of technical personnel. Each ship carries a crew of 966 - including technical and engineering crew of 170 - along with 2,139 passengers.

Art Deco Explained

- by Katyana Jaidov

When it comes to things artistic, I am challenged. I know what I like, but I don't know why. And often I am at a loss to understand what others find stirring. So it was when I entered the venerable Schloss Museum to take in Melusina Parkin's photography exhibit, "PAST FUTURE: Courses of the Art Deco Style."

Standing perplexed before the first few photographs - the only subject I even vaguely recognized was a New York City skyscraper - I started to wonder not only what I was seeing, but why I was there. Fortunately, the artist was kind (and patient) enough to include a clear, informative and interesting introduction to the Art Deco style that transformed the entire exhibit from an enigma to a fascinating exploration of style, color, texture, material, and form in art and architecture.

So don't miss this colorful and challenging introduction to one of modern art's most extensive and influential movements. But do walk straight to the far back wall and avail yourself of the tutelage that awaits you there. I guarantee you will see the exhibit with new eyes.

Berlin Given "A Taste of Atlantis"

For several hours over the last weekend, Berlin's iconic Unter den Linden became Unter dem Wasser as a series of freak flash floods turned the city into an inland sea. Authorities are placing the blame on a giant Ape who apparently dammed up the Spree just as torrential summer downpours unleashed unprecedented rainfall over the city. Zeppelins and boats allowed many citizens to turn the event into a lark, while most others found safety on rooftops or even with Victoria's Quadriga atop the not quite submerged Brandenberger Tor.

The Unter dem Wasser at the height of the flooding.
(BAZ Staff Photo)

The flooding began shortly after 16:00 SLT on Sunday but seemed to be confined principally to the poorer southwest sections of the city, including the popular Der Keller dance-hall. However, after a very brief intermezzo when the waters seemed to recede, the real flooding began, drowning the Alexanderplatz and the tony Behrenstrasse neighborhood. This time there was no stopping it, and over the next half hour the waters rose to levels that placed most of the city underwater.

When the water finally did drain away late that evening, it left everything soaked but remarkably little damage and, happily, no fatalities.

Victory welcomes refugees from the rising waters atop the Brandenberg Gate.
(BAZ Staff Photo)

As Zeppelin tours enjoyed a sudden rise in popularity, all manner of craft plied the Venice-like streets - from tire inner tubes to peddle boats to steam powered launches. In an especially moving moment, Cordelia Bellingshausen continued to play bravely upon her organ as the waters rose about her, inspiring calm at that particularly tense moment. Apparently her many near drownings in the canal served her well through this latest crisis.

Weather for the next few days is forecast to be mostly sunny with only a small chance of rain, so we may hope the city dries out without further incident.

Warwillow Portrait Captures Spring Photo Prize

The winner of the Berlin Spring Photograph contest was announced today, and the photograph judged to best represent Spring in the City of Berlin was submitted by Fr. Sabriel Warillow. Her entry, depicting a "spring-struck" couple embracing in the park, won her the contest prize of 500RL.

Contest organizer and sole judge, Fr. Jo Yardley, announced the winner following Happy Hour at Der Keller today, saying, "To start, thanks to all of you who posted a photo! Our Flickr group has received many awesome pictures. This time I just choose the one I liked most. Maybe next time we will let everyone have a vote. But without any further ado,  I present to you the winner of our spring theme competition! Fr. PosiePishPosh!"  (aka Fr. Sabriel Warillow.)

Fr. Warwillow's winning photograph "Spring in Berlin".
(Photo by Sabriel Warwillow)

All of the contest entries may be viewed here: http://www.flickr.com/search/groups/?w=1129293%40N23&m=pool&q=spring .

Town Meeting Promotes Direct Citizen Action

Saturday's Berlin Town Meeting, the third in an ongoing series of meetings between City Leaders and the public, was focused on the importance of citizen involvement in city affairs, and on various ways to encourage and promote it. The atmosphere was upbeat and positive, with numerous ideas, suggestions and discussions relevant to the topic.

The meeting opened with a status report from Fr. Jo Yardley. Setting the tone for the rest of the meeting, she said that "Technically the Sim is doing well and all is well, so the only things that need to change are whatever makes daily life in Berlin more fun. More visitors would be great of course but this is not a matter of life and death at the moment. I think much of what can be improved is up to the people themselves to improve." The ensuing conversation focused closely on what things might be accomplished directly by the residents and regular visitors.

"The city is doing very well," Fr Yardley reported. "We are still mostly occupied except for some of the Adlon rooms. The apartments still fly away. Visitor numbers are still good but of course not as busy as I'd like. If it were up to me, the city would be overflowing with people every day." There was a large spike in visitors on May 1st, indicating the popular success of the "Berlin Riots" event. "Our events are great," Yardley opined. "The bicycle race was fantastic. I think most visitors just come around to have a look and shop. But we also get a lot of return visitors from people within the community. We are trying to create more fun for people who are not tenants. And we're working on new jobs for all." She concluded her report with the announcement that the 1920s Berlin Project had been invited to participate in the Second Life 8th Birthday events. "We're having a little plot at the big SL 8 Years Old exhibition. With some luck that will bring us more visitors as well." Statistics on visits may be examined at:  http://www.slsensor.com/stat.php?id=879&timezone=1 .
 
Following Fr. Yardley's report, the meeting was opened for public discussion and a lively and constructive hour followed. A complete transcript of the meeting can be found on the 1920s Berlin Forum at: 

http://www.1920sberlin.com/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=14&t=1011 .
 
Some of the highlights are presented here.
 
Zeno McAuley has opened a Talent Agency and is actively seeking performers and entertainers of all sorts for venues thought the city. Prospective talent should contact Herr McAuley directly with their proposal. Although she declined to set a specific date, Fr. Yardley announced that the long vacant El Dorado Club would be opening "soon". "That will make Berlin interesting to a whole new group of people," she explained.

Given the higher level of engagement of residents, and the persistent shortage of available housing, Alf Korhonen asked it it was possible to create more flat-type living spaces. "We are short on prims," Yardley responded. "Some of the buildings are build to 'grow' but without prims. We're at about 400 prims and still need some stuff. But Mesh is coming in July! I hope I can rebuild some stuff in Berlin with Mesh and thus free up prims. So who knows, we MAY get more prims after rebuilding some things. I'd sooner add a few low prim cheap hotel rooms to give people a place to stay then to build another region."

Several attendees suggested sports matches as a way to attract visitors. Football, boxing, swimming meets and races of various sorts were proposed - possibly playing teams from other, historically similar Sims. Other suggestions included more museum exhibits, better use of the waterways to hold regattas and social events on the boats and barges. "I think the issue is not that we don't have enough ideas but that I don't have enough time," Fr. Yardley responded. "People in Berlin can organise events. Just check with me first and I'll let you go for it. I should send a notecard to everyone letting people know that they are more then welcome to set up events, crazy roleplay, etc."

A suggestion to expand the number of "happy hour" events at Der Keller provoked a good deal of discussion. "I love the idea of more happy hours," Fr Yardly concluded. "Or at least more activity in Der Keller." The problem of wide variance in Time Zones seemed to argue for multiple Keller events. But Fr. Yardly also proposed starting a number of regular "mini-events" - regular times where people could gather  and socialize - at other locales. Morning coffee or lunchtime at the Elektric Cafe, afternoon tea at the Adlon, etc.

In response to comments that most of the city's shops and businesses were normally entirely deserted, Fr Yardley announced that a program was being developed to encourage people to spend time working in exchange for a "scrip" that could then be exchanged in various shops for items of interest or value. A sort of "Linden free" currency.

Frl. Rosemary Thyme suggested that people simply get themselves out of their homes and spend more time about the city. "Don't hide indoors so much," she said. "Go out on the streets." This inspired Frl. Ceinwen Roberts to comment on the need for benches in public areas to encourage people to linger and socialize. Fr. Yardly committed to see that some were installed as soon as possible.(Several appeared on the Unter den Linden and Alexanderplatz by Sunday morning.)
 
Fr. Jaidiov asked what the single, most important thing that needed to be accomplished might be and, in response, Fr Yardley reiterated that she believed it was the citizens of the City taking on more responsibility themselves to make Berlin a more exciting place to live, work and socialize. "I think many people don't know how many options there actually are," she said. "It is your city just as much as it is mine. And everything here is to be used. Do you want to start a certain roleplay about a trial? The court house is there, let me know and go for it. Do you want to set your house on fire? Let me know and go for it. Anyone can organize a class at the schoolhouse. Also remember that in the 1920s people were more social; they would have chats with strangers in the street, unlike most modern people."

After the meeting concluded, Fr. Yardley released an additional statement summarizing the results and the steps that the City would be taking to implement many of the suggestions. "We are going to ask people to try and do more. To take the initiative. If you have an idea or plan, if you want to use Berlin for something, go for it! A notecard will be sent around explaining that people in Berlin have a lot more freedom to organize something than they may think they do, and that (after asking permission to ensure that the proposal fits into the historical theme of the place) they can set up events, sporting matches, races,  classes and parties in the city. The only reason we don't have more events is that I am rather busy!"

Town Meeting Called for Tomorrow

The third in an ongoing series of "town meetings" will convene this Saturday, 4 June 1929, at Noon in the Municipal Courthouse. The public is invited, and is invited to submit questions and suggestions regarding the status and management of the 1920s Berlin Project Sim. The purpose of these meetings is to provide a forum for discussion of any and all issues related to the operation of the Sim. The meetings will not address personal problems you may be having with other tenants, or visitors, real or roleplay. Personal issues may be discussed in private, if need be with Sim staff. Issues such as suggestions for events or historical recreations, the status of construction projects, questions about how and why things are done or specific problems that have a wide general impact are all open for discussion.

"If you have any special points that you want to discuss during this meeting," said moderator Jo Yardley, "please write them on a notecard and send it to me so that I can make sure they get discussed first. After we discuss the subjects that were sent in, everyone else will be allowed to talk."

Kungler Scores Narrow Victory in Cycle Race

Cyclists line up at the starting line just before the race.
(BAZ Staff Photo)

Barricades and police trucks reminiscent of the 1 May riots blocked the streets of Berlin yesterday, but the only rowdiness was the cheering of spectators as a crowded field of cyclists competed for fame, prize medals and cash. It was a perfect day for the race, cool with clear skies and little wind, and the prospect of

excitement drew a good crowd of both riders and observers.

Claytanic Kungler streaks across the finish barely a length
ahead of Cuthbert Hellendale.
(BAZ Staff Photo)

Starting at a few minutes past 13:00 SLT on the Parisienplatz, the course wound its way along the outer edges of the city, treating the residents of Behrenstrasse, Alexanderplatz, Am Nussbraum and the Jewish Quarter to the sight of a pack of bicyclists speeding pell-mell down the street and giving a few unwary pedestrians a good fright. Three circuits of the course were required to claim victory, with the competitors cheered onward each time they sped past the grandstand. Some seven minutes after the starting gun had sounded, the three leaders came charging down the Rykestrasse toward the finish. First to cross the line three times was Berlin resident and prizefighter Claytanic Kungler, edging out Father Cuthbert Hellendale by barely the length of his vehicle. Taena Matova captured the bronze finish by crossing the line not two lengths behind the priest. Several other competitors, including young Doktor Sturges of automobile racing fame, finished not far behind the leaders.

Immediately following the race, the winners were presented with medals befitting their achievement by Fr. Jo Yardley, personal Secretary to City Manager Oskar Eddenbaum, and received the vocal applause of the onlookers. In addition to their medals and the adulation of the public, cash prizes of 500RL, 300RL and 150RL were presented to the top three racers.

Claytanic Kungler, Cuthbert Hellendale and Taena Matova
receive their race medals and the approval of the crowd.
(BAZ Staff Photo)

Following the race the crowd retired en-mass for dancing and drinks at the popular Der Keller Tantzlocale, where the race was generally proclaimed a great success and various schemes were hatched for additional such events. The BAZ congratulates the organizers and all those who came out and competed in the event.

Cyclists to Race for Cash Prizes

Spring has finally arrived, and to celebrate the greening of Berlin there will be a bicycle race through the streets of the city on Saturday, May28, 1929. A purse of 950 Reichslindens will be divided among the first three riders to cross the finish line. No registration is required, and competitors are asked to simply show up ready to race in front of the Hotel Adlon by 1:00pm SLT. The race is open to both men and women.

In order to assure a safe and fair competition, all riders will be required to use the 1885 Safety Bicycle only. This vehicle can be worn so no rezzing is required, meaning that the competition is open to residents and non-residents alike. The model 1885 Safety Bicycle can be purchased from the vendor located immediately outside the Bahnhoff Alexanderplatz. Arrangements have been made for the public to view the race from a grandstand to be erected in front of the Brandenberg Tor.

Business Group Calls Organizational Meeting

A group of local business owners and shopkeepers are organizing to form The Greater Berlin Chamber of Commerce. The purpose of the new organization will be to promote and encourage the establishment and growth of businesses in the City of Berlin and its environs. "Working together," says multiple-business owner Morganic Clarrington, " through positive actions, we can generate more income for all of the shops in Berlin." The group plans to participate in civic activities, sponsor events, promote the local business climate through advertising and outreach campaigns, form alliances with businesses in other cities and work to encourage tourism.
 
"This is not a political group," Clarrington added. "Rather it will be an opportunity for the hard-working men and women of Berlin to come together for their mutual benefit. Please come and get involved."

An organizational meeting will be held on Sunday, May 22nd, at 3 pm SLT at the Municipal Courthouse on Unter Den Linden. Snacks will be served.

City to Sponsor Spring Photography Competition

The Office of Herr Oskar Eddenbaum announced today that the City will sponsor a Frühling in Berlin photography competition, and invited all interested persons to submit their work. A first place prize of 500 Reichslindens will be awarded to the entry judged to best represent the spring season in our city.

Competition entrants should observe the following rules:
  
1. All photographs submitted must have been made within the 1920s Berlin Project sim.
2. Entries must be uploaded to the 1920s Berlin Project Flickr group to be considered.
     (http://www.flickr.com/groups/20sberlin)
3. Each submission must contain the phrase "Spring Contest" in the description box.
4. For the purpose of encouraging tourism, the City requests that entrants also ad the correct Slurl to the
    description of each entry. (http://slurl.com/secondlife/1920s%20Berlin/236/232/751)

A winner will be chosen from among all entries properly submitted by midnight (SLT) on 4 June, 1929. The winner will be selected on 5 June during the daily Happy Hour event at the infamous Der Keller dance hall. Questions regarding the competition should be directed to Fr. Jo Yardley at Herr Eddenbaum's office.

Reparations Conference Progresses on New American Proposal, France Still Uncommitted

The problem of how much Germany shall pay in war reparations seemed in a fair way to be solved last week by a new American proposal intended to break the Dawes Committee deadlock between France and Germany.
  
Two weeks ago all negotiations were abruptly broken off and the committee prepared to disband after a demand upon Germany for 28 billion dollars over 58 years was met by the Chief German negotiator, Dr. Hjalmar Schacht, with an absolute refusal to pay more than 15 billion over 37 years. The Allies were particularly incensed by the fact that Germany made a portion of their offer conditional upon the return of certain territory and colonies which she gave up by ratifying the Treaty of Versailles. Blamed by all the Allied delegates for derailing the committee, Dr. Schacht left Paris in late April for a five-day visit to Berlin.
 
While Dr. Schacht was telling German correspondents that further negotiations would be useless, an entirely new plan was drafted in Paris by Chairman Owen D. Young, chief US negotiator, in consultation with senior US delegate, J. Pierpont Morgan. When Dr. Schacht returned to Paris, he was met at the French frontier by three subordinates of the German delegation, bearing copies of the Young Plan. Three hours later Dr. Schacht reached Paris, and for two hours was closeted with Mr. Young. Quickly a special meeting of the Second Dawes Committee was called by Chairman Young, who then said: "The American delegates have prepared certain figures for annuities which we have shown to Dr. Schacht and he has informed us that he will be prepared to accept those figures if the creditor Powers will accept them." After these words he gave a brief exposition of the proposed plan, and almost at once Japan's Kenjo Mori rose to voice warm approval. Within a few moments it was evident that Britain's Sir Josiah Stamp would also back the Young Plan. Only the French and their Continental Allies seemed hesitant.

The key points of the Young Plan were summarized as:
 
1) Germany to pay 18 billion dollars over 37 years.
2) The annual payments to average $487,600,000, and of this $165,900,000 to be paid unconditionally, with payment of the rest conditioned on German capacity to pay without impairing the value of the mark—a protection which the Fatherland already enjoys under the so-called "transfer clause" of the Dawes Plan.
3) Bonds to be issued against the unconditional portion of Germany's pledge to pay, and sold to the world public, the proceeds to go at once into the treasuries of the creditor Powers.
4) The bond transaction to be carried on through an international bank of settlement.
5) Profits from the operation of the bank are expected to be so huge, according to the Mr. Young and Dr. Schacht, that after the 37th year accrued and accruing profits and interest will pay off in 21 more years the full total of the German debt.

Two additional conditions were attached by Dr. Schacht to his acceptance of this plan:
 
1) That all profits from the international bank must go toward extinguishing the German debt.
2) That if the sum expected to be derived from profits and interest thereon does not materialize it shall be deducted from what Germany owes.
 
Whether or not the Young Plan would be approved seemed to depend, almost entirely on the attitude of France and more especially on that of her chief delegate, M. Emile Moreau, governor of the Bank of France. Vexation was general when it appeared that M. Moreau was "out of town" getting re-elected as mayor of a tiny provincial village whose chief magistrate has always been a Moreau. Until this "family matter" could be attended to the Second Dawes Committee and the world were obliged to wait.

Police Expand Uniformed Ranks

Police Wachtmeister Fabian Metzger
(BAZ Staff Photo)

The Berlin City Police have expanded the ranks of their uniformed officers with the addition of Wachtmeister Fabian Metzger to the force. Wachtmeister Metzger is a recent graduate of the Police Academy and comes to us from his native Düsseldorf. Prior to entering the Academy he served in the Army. "As a young boy I always wanted to join the police," Metzger explained. "Just to keep law and order. To be serving and protecting the people."

Please join the BAZ in welcoming Wachtmeister Metzger to his new assignment.

Police Say "Never Mind" to KPD Riot Suspects, Sacrifice Last Shred of Credibility

As though determined to prove wrong anyone who felt that the Police could not possibly do anything more to make their performance through last weeks faked riots even worse, the only two individuals arrested and charged with fomenting the troubles were released yesterday with a stern warning not to leave the city. Sniper Ellis Felicci told the BAZ that he had been released due to "lack of evidence", a claim that strains all credulity given the dozens of witnesses and published photographs that show him breaking, if nothing else, the public weapons law.

Oberwachtmeister Danitz, by now the very symbol of Police arrogance, incompetence and irresponsibility, apparently took it upon himself to release the prisoners without bothering to consult with a magistrate or anyone in the judiciary, sending the prisoners on their merry way because he "could not find a judge." Those arrested for traffic violations are allowed to languish in jail for weeks. Those accused and arrested for inciting violent riots by the very same police who now claim that no evidence of their guilt exists were detained barely 2 days.

If, in fact, the Police do not have any evidence that either Felicci or Menna are guilty of anything, then why were they arrested in the first place? And if the police never saw them commit any crime, why were their crimes used by the Police as the excuse for perpetrating such excessive violence upon the innocent and uninvolved citizens of Berlin? If the objective of the city and the police is to sacrifice all credibility and public trust, and turn the masses of people in the city against them, their performance is brilliant. If it is anything else, they have proven that their performance can be worse than anyone imagined possible.

Images of Chaos - Scenes from the 1 May "Riots"

Just prior to publication, it was learned that the "riots" were a huge fraud perpetrated upon the citizens of Berlin through collusion among the police, the KPD and the City. Nothing more than Street Theater, following a script and mutually agreed upon "rules of engagement" established for the enjoyment of the participants. For those who made any attempt to take it seriously, too bad, you were played the fool. We publish these staged images only out of respect for the photographers who were not "in" on the fix and labored to record and inform.

Fr. Haru Menna leads the KPD "crowd" down Friedrichstrasse in an
attempt to pass the Police checkpopint enroute to the Sportshalle.
(Photo by Crispen Sturges)

Police Armored Car
(BAZ Staff Photo)

An auto burns at Friedfrichstrasse and Mittelstrasse early in the day.
(BAZ Staff Photo)

A fearless, machine gun armed Oberwachtmeister Danitz faces down the
huge crowd of KPD rioters gathered in the streets below.
(Photo by Dora Mills)

Freidrichstrasse looking west from the Police checkpoint that was the scene
of most of the violence committed against innocent civilians.
(Photo by Dora Mills)

 

Police Oberwachtmeister Danitz mans the Friedrichstrasse checkpoint
after the initial confrontations had passed.
(Photo by Sabriel Warwillow)

KPD members offer a flag of truce.
(BAZ Staff Photo)

In stark contrast to the violent actions of the Police, the Naval Security
Forces performed with calm professionalism throughout the worst|
of the unrest.
(Photo by Sabriel Warwillow)

 

Hospital staff assist the injured after the Police rioted against the public.
 (Photo by Zeno McAuley)

The Hospital had to add extra beds to care for all the people
injured in the violence of 1 May. Over 95% of all victims received their
wounds at the hand of the Berlin City Police.
(Photo by Sabriel Warwillow)

Corpses littered the streets for three days.
(Photo by Sabriel Warwillow)

Morales Exhibit a Colorful Dream

If you are attending the Morales exhibit at the Schloss Museum this month and are expecting a fashion show on canvas, prepare to have your expectations wildly exceeded. Already solidly entrenched as one of the world's foremost fashion designers and merchandisers, this show will be a large step toward establishing Morales' credentials as a talented graphic artist as well.

Entitled "The Mysterious Garden", the illustrations, particularly those in deep blue, seem to draw the onlooker into a colorful dream. The simplicity of the illustrations suggests the sort of childlike wonder that somnambulance confers, a place where the mysterious can be ordinary and almost anything possible. To be sure the show does not lack for images of stylishly garbed women but even these suggest exotic and distant locales, the Orient and even Shangrila. If you have forgotten how to dream, these illustrations will get you started again.

It is a small exhibit, but don't miss it. It will be the most engaging twenty minutes of your day.

Auto Rally Delivers Thrills, Laughs

 - by Crispin Sturges

Drivers and spectators gather to
await the start of the first race.
(Photo by Dr, Crispin Sturges)

Although turnout was light, this morning's auto rally and road race rewarded both drivers and spectators with  a madcap race through the streets of Berlin.
 
The course was marked with arrows and barricades and at the call for competitors three drivers took their places at the starting line. A grandstand for spectators had been erected near the finish. The competitors included Frau Yardley, driving her Dixie touring car, Herr Ellis in a city taxi and Dr. Sturges in his Alalante 358 racing car. The race required three laps through the city, with a trophy and a purse of 250RL going to the first racer across the finish.  Some dents and narrow brushes with the banks of the Spree Canal punctuated a fast and closely run race, with Dr. Sturges crossing the line first and declared the winner.
 

Dr. Sturges celebrates his victory and prize after finishing
first in the initial race.
(Photo by Crispin Sturges)

The competitors, not satisfied with but one test, requested another race be held immediately and the judges agreed. The same drivers vied again but with the same results. A third race was declared, and Fr Sonata Morales joined the field in a black and silver luxury touring car. Herr Ellis elected to drive a truck, and Herr Sturges, having won twice and appearing determined to crush the competition this time, drove a retired army Panzerkampfwagon from the war. The cars deftly avoided the slow moving obstacle of the PzKW, although some minor damage was done to shop windows along the course. At the conclusion of the rally, Fr Morales' car was declared the "Most Elegant Vehicle" of the day to the boisterous approval of the crowd. The rally organizers expressed thanks to the drivers and onlookers, and relief that that there were no injuries or major damage. Most expressed their interest in staging another rally and, separately, a bicycle race as well.

Fr Yardley avoids flattening her Dixie under the metal treads of Dr. Sturges'
lumbering ten year old tank.
(Photo by Dr. Crispen Sturges)

Morales Exhibit Opens Sunday at Schloss

For the month of May, the Schloss Museum will feature illustrations by the noted designer and artist Sonatta Morales. The show, entitled "The Mysterious Garden: Illustration by Sonatta Morales", features Fr. Morales' hand drawn fashion illustrations. Morales, who's trend setting design work has set the standard for modern couture, said her drawings were inspired by her garden. "It is magical at this time of year," she explained, "and I have made these illustrations especially for Berlin."

The exhibit opens tomorrow, Sunday, 8 May, 1929 at 13:00 SLT. Admission is free and open to the public. It follows the highly successful exhibit of Egyptian artifacts unearthed from the tomb of Prince Notuncommon.

SCAPEGOATS!

"And the Goat shall bear upon him all their iniquities unto a Land not inhabited." (Leviticus 16:22)
(Painting by William Holman Hunt)

With calm restored to the city and the violent unrest of the past weekend behind us, the time has come to put aside any thought of fixing the problems revealed by the incident and to turn instead to the more important matter of fixing the blame. Despite the fact that 100% of the deaths and 96% of all injuries were caused by the Police, despite the fact that the Police operational commander was so completely out of control that he had to be relieved of his command by a magistrate summoned to the scene by one of his own men, despite a record of incompetence and illegality, of falsified warrants and prisoners shot in jail cells, we will now be asked to believe that the entire blame for the destruction and violence of the last few days belongs to a drunken, dimwitted taxi driver and a slogan chanting, smoke bomb tossing, diminutive female anarchist. There is little doubt that both these individuals are on the wrong side of the law and have a sentence to pay, and doubtless this will soon play out in court. But to lay the blame for the entire affair at the feet of these two buffoons is like blaming the nails for the crucifixion of Christ.

The Police could have ended the "riot" any time they chose. They were the only rioters. They chose not to.

What we have in jail are a pair of scapegoats. Two conveniently involved minor characters. Rosencrantz and Guildenstern. And in our haste to put the past few days behind us, in our eagerness to avoid the unpleasant task of holding those really responsible for events to account, we are all to ready to uncritically accept the sacrificial goat. But make no mistake. Choices have consequences. If you allow the Police to get away with murder this time, if you accept the unacceptable behavior this time, it will not be long before you no longer have a choice. You get what you accept.

At the very least, the criminal behavior of certain (by no means all) members of the Police, who's actions stand in stark contrast to the professionalism of the Naval security forces, should be investigated by the State's Attorney. Civil suits against the City, the Police and their Commander should also be considered. The real Heroes of Mayday were the ordinary citizens of Berlin who stood up and said "No! Enough!", and those who will not now accept a scapegoat in place of justice being done.

Auto Rally Set for Saturday

Berlin will stage an automobile rally this Saturday, May 7th, at 13:00 local time. Depending on the number and type of entrants, up to two races may be held: a race for owners of the Dixie automobiles, and an Open event for autos of any make. A course has been laid out through the city, and the first driver to cross the finish line in each event will claim the winner's trophy and a L$250 prize. Spotters are expected to line the course to keep everyone honest and avoid any "short cuts".

Drivers wishing to enter their automobiles in the events should assemble shortly before 13:00 on the Unter den Linden. The race is open to all entrants.

Local Business Owners Explore Forming Berlin Chamber

Several local business owners have been discussing the formation of a Greater Berlin Chamber of Commerce. The proposed organization would be comprised of Berlin businesses and would promote mutual prosperity through advertising, events, sponsorships and representation of business interests to city government. The group's members would also subscribe to a "Code of Ethics" that binds them to selling quality products at fair prices, and to dealing with customer issues promptly and fairly. The formation of the organization is only in the initial discussion stage, but interested business are encouraged to get involved.

For further information, contact either the BAZ, at Unter den Linden #16, S2, or Morganic Clarrington, at Mittelstrasse #5.

"State of Emergency" Suspended

Das Berliner Polizeipräsidium has announced that as of 14:00 hours today, Tuesday, 3 May, the State of Emergency imposed Sunday is cancelled. Two arrests have been made, and the ringleaders of the unrest are said to be in police custody. Police stated that Frau Heru Menna had been apprehended following a brief gun-battle and that they now considered the city to be secure.

Damage and debris continue to litter the side streets, and several corpses remained to be collected. But everything seemed otherwise calm.

KPD Sniper Felicci in Police Custody

Ellis Felicci
(Photo by Sabriel Warwillow)

Ellis Felicci, the KPD sniper who briefly terrorized the southwest sections of the city on Sunday by firing randomly from balconies and rooftops, was captured just before 18:00 hours local time Monday by Naval security personnel. He was discovered hiding in a coffin among the real victims of the Sunday rioting in the undertakers establishment on Alexanderplatz. Felicci had been sought throughout the city since his escape from the hospital Sunday night, where he was being treated for gunshot wounds sustained during the rioting. He was transferred to Police custody and incarcerated in the jail at the Main Police barracks at the west end of Friedrichstrasse. This is the third time in 2 days Felicci has been in Police custody.

Morganic Clarington after examining the damage to
his Mittelstrasse bakery.
(BAZ Staff Photo)

In other riot related news today, Police reported the detonation of a small bomb on the Unter den Linden near the now unmanned checkpoint at Friedrickstrasse that was the scene of so much violence yesterday. There were no injuries and only minor street level damage. Two hours earlier, on Mittelstrasse, Clarrington's Bakery, a local landmark in the Jewish quarter, was severely vandalized. Wood planks put up to protect the glass were torn off, the windows broken, and the furnishings and inventory inside largely destroyed. Nothing was reported stolen. Clarrington, well known for his artistic and philanthropic activities, was visibly upset by the loss, but vowed to reopen as soon as calm was restored.

Magdelenenkirche Bombed Four Times

The Magdelenenkirch was the target of an armed intruder and two bombing attacks last night, bringing to four the number of bombings at the church since the start of the present unrest. Only light damage was done, and no one was injured. Pending an easing of citywide tensions, the church will remain locked and occupied. Parishioners or others desiring entry should make arrangements with Father Hellendale.

"I was in the church when I thought I heard a movement in the tower," said Hellendale, describing the events leading to the bombings. "We've had four bombs now. I was in the church (last night) when I thought I heard a movement in the tower, so, naturally I went up to investigate. I found a man up there wearing a red armband. I asked what he was doing and he didn't reply, so I asked him to leave." Instead the intruder, who the priest could not positively identify, pulled a gun. "So I slipped down the ladder and set the bells ringing," Hellendale continued. (Detective) Sonnenkern and one of the sailors came running but when we went back up the man had gone."
 
It turns out that the armed intrusion was only the precursor to an even worse assault. While locking the building's heavy front doors as a precaution, Father Hellendale had a second visitor. "Just as I was about to close the doors a woman arrived," he said. "Haru Menna. Goodness knows what I was thinking but I let her in briefly. I didn't like her attitude at all so I asked her to leave after a minute and she did. I shut the door after her, turned the lock and came back into the church, and then I heard a tremendous blast."

The first explosion was apparently detonated outside the front doors, which bore the brunt of the force, although the tremors did cause some damage to the organ loft. The explosion was reported to the police. "About an hour or so later there was a second blast, right outside the rectory," Hellendale continued. "And this evening we've had two more blasts, mainly outside the doors and beside the tower. Since the second pair of blasts Sister Perpetua and I have been securing the church. We've heard shots too, close by, but I don't think they were directed at the church."

No arrests have been made in the case.

Anarchists Threaten Further Violence

The BAZ has learned from a reliable source that anarchist groups loosely allied with the KPD have plans to launch additional attacks within the city tomorrow, Monday, 2 May, using a cache of weapons and explosives said to already be stored within the city. Unconfirmed information suggests that the attacks may be made at random or against citizens staying in their homes. Among the weapons thought to be in the anarchists' arsenal is the Mauser C96 semi-automatic pistol, a weapon with a longer barrel and considerably higher muzzle velocity than most handguns, giving it superior range and penetration and making it a particularly deadly weapon. Citizens are urged to take precautions to defend themselves and to immediately report any suspicious activity to the Police or Naval personnel.