The crowning took place at Plattduetsche Park in Franklin Square, NY on Sunday, May 17th, 2026 in front of family, friends and supporters of the German-American Steuben Parade and the German-American Committee of Greater New York. Miss German-America 2026 will receive a $5,000 scholarship, each princess will receive a $2,500 scholarship.

In addition to crowning Miss German-America 2026, a Junior General von Steuben, and 2 Junior Princesses were introduced. Ishir Osius Singh, of NYC, NY was named Junior General von Steuben. The Junior Princesses are: Emma Ressel, of Lebanon, NJ, and Lisa Marie Kury, from Whitehouse Station, NJ.

Over 110 guests were in attendance, including the Parade’s General Chairman Robert Radske, numerous Steuben Parade Committee members, members of the German-American Committee of Greater New York and other various Club Presidents and Representatives from throughout the German-American community in the tri-state area.

Miss German-America and her Court have an extensive list of appearances scheduled in and around the Greater NY Metropolitan area throughout the summer months leading up to the 69th German-American Steuben Parade. The Court is also looking forward to the Steuben Parade Gala & Silent Auction to be held the evening before the Parade, on Friday, Sept. 18th , 2026, at Current at Chelsea Piers in NYC.

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Raised in a deeply proud German-American household, Denise’s connection to Germany began at home. With both of her parents originating directly from Germany, her upbringing was immersed in language, culture, and tradition. Her mother worked tirelessly to preserve those customs, ensuring Denise could read, write, and speak German fluently so she could remain close to family overseas and connected to her roots.

“Becoming the Queen of the parade was a natural bucket list item,” Denise shared. “The Germans have contributed so much to America and the world as a whole, and I am extremely honored to be a part of this culture.”

As Queen in 2011, Denise had the opportunity to represent the parade during a memorable year led by Grand Marshal Erik Bettermann. One of the greatest highlights of her reign was discovering the broader German-American community throughout the New York area.

“Going to all the various functions around the area that I hadn’t been familiar with and meeting so many wonderful, proud German-Americans was incredible,” she recalled. “And flying to Germany for Karneval in my home city of Cologne was unforgettable.”

Her love for Cologne remains strong to this day. In fact, if she could design a parade float herself, it would be centered entirely around the city she calls her favorite in the world.

While Denise entered the role already confident and outgoing, her time on the court strengthened her ability to speak publicly and lead with poise.

“This experience taught me to become confident speaking at large events and staying calm throughout it all,” she said.

Today, Denise works as an Executive Director of Client Business Leadership at a media agency while also balancing life as a mother of two young children. Though family life has understandably made it harder to stay deeply involved with the Parade Committee in recent years, her connection to the organization and her heritage remains strong.

And nowhere is that more evident than in the traditions she continues to practice at home.

“We practice all of them,” Denise said with a smile.

From Advent calendars and St. Nicholas Day celebrations to Christmas Eve customs and beautifully decorated Easter trees, German traditions are woven into daily life in the Marchitto household. She regularly bakes Zopf, the traditional sweet bread, and makes trips out to Long Island for authentic German deli meats, spreads, and baked goods that remind her family of home.

Most importantly, Denise is now passing those traditions on to the next generation.

“I have two small children who I can’t wait to get more involved in the German culture,” she shared. “We’ve already been to Germany with them and they love it there just as much as we do.”

When asked what advice she would give to future courts, Denise emphasized authenticity and responsibility.

“Enjoy every minute of it and stay genuine,” she said. “The goal is to continue inspiring future generations to keep these traditions alive. The older generations will soon be handing the baton over to us, and it is our duty and honor to take it forward.”

And while her reign may have ended 15 years ago, Denise still remembers one funny milestone that came immediately afterward:

“As soon as my reign as Queen was over, I couldn’t wait to cut my hair super short because I didn’t have to worry about how the crown would look!”

Through her pride, warmth, and dedication to preserving German culture within her own family, Denise represents exactly what the German-American Steuben Parade has celebrated for generations — heritage carried proudly into the future.

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Being a member of the Miss German-America Court as a Princess was an experience that felt both deeply meaningful and personally fulfilling. From the very beginning, it meant so much to me to be able to connect with my grandmother’s heritage. As an immigrant from Germany, she passed down a love for our culture that has always been close to my heart. Representing that heritage in such a visible and celebratory way made every moment even more special.

Leading up to the 68th Steuben Parade, I had so many opportunities to grow, learn, and connect. Throughout the summer, attending events allowed me to immerse myself more fully in German traditions. Spending time at cultural gatherings, especially at Plattduetsche Park, was incredibly rewarding. Whether we were engaging with visitors, sharing traditions, or simply enjoying the atmosphere, I loved being able to promote and celebrate our heritage. One of my favorite parts was learning and participating in traditional dances, which made me feel even more connected to the culture and its history.

Beyond the events themselves, the connections I made truly defined my experience. Being alongside such inspiring and kind individuals on the court created friendships I will always value. Sharing laughs, traditions, and new experiences brought us closer together, and I am so grateful for those bonds. It was meaningful to be surrounded by others who shared the same pride in being German American.

Parade weekend was unforgettable. From the excitement leading up to the day to the moment we stepped onto the float, it all felt surreal. Riding down Fifth Avenue, waving to the crowd, and celebrating alongside so many others who cherish this culture was something I will never forget. As a little girl, I had the opportunity to ride on floats within the Little Miss Schuetzen Park organization, and being able to compare my experiences is truly a privilege. It was a moment where I felt both proud to represent my heritage and grateful for the opportunity to do so.

Above all, I am thankful for my family, especially knowing how much this experience would have meant to my grandmother. My parents, sister, and boyfriend’s support made every event even more special, driving me all the way to New York from New Jersey, dancing with me, and accompanying me every time, and I carried that love with me throughout the entire journey. This experience has given me memories, friendships, and a deeper connection to my roots that I will always hold onto. My deepest love goes to Michelle and Sabine, and I wish them all the best! I look forward to continuing to celebrate and represent my heritage in the years to come.

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German heritage has always been woven into the fabric of who I am. Growing up, it showed up in small, wonderful ways — the language spoken at family gatherings, the recipes passed down through generations, the music, the traditions, the quiet pride of knowing where you come from. But nothing could have prepared me for just how deeply that heritage would come alive during my year as a German-American Steuben Parade Princess.

When I was chosen as a Princess, I knew it would be a meaningful experience. What I did not expect was how profoundly it would expand my world — through the festivals, the friendships, the faces of people who carry the same traditions in their hearts, and the
extraordinary honor of standing alongside women who had worn this title before me.

The events and festivals throughout the year were nothing short of magical. From the first gathering to the grandeur of the Steuben Parade weekend, every occasion was a celebration of something larger than any one of us — a shared identity that stretches
back generations and crosses an ocean.

There is something deeply moving about standing in a crowd of people who understand, without needing to explain it, why these traditions matter. The music, the costumes, the food, the laughter — every festival felt like a homecoming, even when I was somewhere
entirely new. I found myself not just participating in the culture, but actively sharing it with others who were discovering it for the first time. That role — of being a bridge between heritage and community — was one I grew to cherish.

If there is one gift this year gave me above all others, it is the friendships. I could not have imagined, at the outset, the bonds that would form so naturally and so quickly among women who had come together through a shared love of their heritage.

Whether we were preparing for an appearance together, catching up at a cultural event, or simply sharing a meal after a long day, I found in my fellow royalty a sisterhood I had not anticipated. We came from different backgrounds and different corners of the German-American community, yet there was an immediate sense of understanding between us — a recognition that we were all here for the same reason, holding something precious and wanting to honor it.

One of the most humbling and inspiring aspects of this year was the opportunity to meet past Miss German America royalty. These women — each of whom had carried this title with grace in their own time — brought with them a sense of living history. Speaking with them, hearing their stories, and seeing their continued dedication to the German-American community long after their reign had ended was a reminder of what this title truly represents.

There is a particular kind of inspiration that comes from meeting someone who walked the same path before you and chose, even years later, to remain. Their commitment to preserving and celebrating our shared culture spoke volumes. I left every such encounter feeling more grounded in my own role and more grateful for the community
that has kept these traditions alive.

As my year as a Miss German America Princess draws to a close, I find myself reflecting not on the events themselves, but on what they revealed — about my heritage, about community, and about myself. This experience deepened my pride in my German-American roots in ways I did not expect. It showed me that culture is not a static thing preserved behind glass, but something alive and breathing, carried forward by the people who love it.

I am grateful beyond words — to the organization that welcomed me, to the friends I made along the way, to the remarkable women of past courts who inspired me, and to every person I met at every event who reminded me why this all matters. German-American heritage is rich, it is joyful, and it belongs to all of us who carry it forward together.

Auf Wiedersehen — until we meet again.

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This past February, I had the opportunity to go to Köln during Karneval, also known as their 5th season, along with my sister and mom. The 5th season involves candy, costumes and camaraderie. My trip started at the Mayor’s reception with the Bürgermeister of Hürth, Dirk Breuer, where we got to meet and learn more about the city of Hürth and Dirk’s experience as a Grand Marshall of the Steuben Parade in 2022. We also got to eat Berliners (a jelly donut) which are a common treat during Karneval.

The next day, we got to celebrate the official opening of Köln Karneval at the Historical City Hall, where I got to meet the Oberbürgermeister of Köln, Torsten Burmester. The City Hall turned into a party to kick off Karneval where there was a DJ that played music and Karneval groups that performed. A huge thank you to Laura Lupinski for providing my family and I with such a warm welcome. From 11:11am,Thursday until Tuesday of the following week, it was parties,costumes and Karneval songs 24/7.

We then got to experience a “Sitzung” hosted by KG Kölsche Grielächer vun 1927 e. V. I would describe this event as a night of continuous performances ranging from musicians to comedians. Everybody was schunkeling, dancing, singing and laughing all night long. It was a fantastic night.

Over the weekend, I had the pleasure to participate in Hürth’s parade where I was invited to join the float of Grosse Knapsacker Karnevalsgesellschaft 19355 e. V. I was accompanied by the Vorstand and the Dancing Couple of the group. As we were riding along the streets of Hürth, we threw candy and flowers to the viewers of the parade while singing and dancing to Karneval music. After the parade, I got invited back to their clubhouse for food and drinks. The Knapsacker’s were such a welcoming and great group to be with.They truly made me feel like I was a part of their group for the day. It was such a unique and cool experience to be in a local parade. The next day, I got to view the Hürth- Efferen parade and experience getting candy thrown at me. It was a fun family filled weekend.

My last full day in Köln was Rosenmontag where I got to view the Rosenmontag parade from the Tribune of RheinEnergie. The parade brings in almost a million people each year from all over the world and lasts around 5 hours. As soon as the parade started, it was full of energy and everyone was having fun, even the EMTs were dancing along to the music! We were given a special “Kamellebüggel” (Tote bag specifically for candy) and by the end of the parade, the Kamellebüggel was overflowing with candy. It was cool to see all the floats and different costumes. I even saw some Karneval groups that marched in the Steuben Parade march in the Rosenmontag parade!

I would like to express my sincerest gratitude to Bürgermeister Dirk Breuer of Hürth and his team (Tobias Pullen, Martina Thiele-Effertz, Ingo Muller and Giuseppe Piliero), for creating a wonderful itinerary and the great hospitality. I also want to thank the President of Grosse Knapsacker Karnevalsgesellschaft 19355 e. V., Thomas Georg and everyone else that made my trip an unforgettable experience with memories that will last a lifetime. Kolle Alaaf!

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Before we crown the 69th Miss German America and my reign as Miss German-America comes to an end, I wanted to reflect upon my experience this past year. Last May was truly a full circle moment when I was crowned as Miss German America Steuben Parade Queen 2025 as my connections with the parade started over 18 years ago. In 2008, I was a Junior Princess for the parade with Miss German America, Melissa Keller (Gratzl). One of the reasons I wanted to be Queen was to be a role model for my juniors like Melissa was for me. I was also the Plattduetsche Volksfest Verein Queen in 2023 and I am an active dancer of GTEV Schlierachtaler Stamm. So, German American Culture has always been a part of my identity.

My summer was filled with Oompah music, dancing and many laughs as I went to various events to promote the parade. Through the events I have met many people that were proud of their culture and would tell me about their connections that they have with the parade. I also got to know my amazing court, Princess Sabine, Princess Kirsten, Junior Princess Michaela, Junior Princess Charlotte, and Junior General William. Each of them brought their unique personality to the court. However, one thing we all have in common is that we are proud to be representing the German American Steuben Parade and our heritage.

The 3rd weekend of September 2025 will forever hold a special place in my heart as it was the parade weekend. The weekend was filled with celebrations. Starting on Friday afternoon at Foley Square, we attended the Greeting of the Groups, where the groups from abroad performed for us. Later that evening, we danced the night away at the Gala with music by the Heimat Klange. Then it was parade day on Saturday. Saturday started with Mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral (an iconic landmark in NY). At noon the parade officially began and we were riding along 5th avenue on the Miss German America float. Since we were one of the initial floats, we finished the parade route first and then got to cheer on the rest of the marchers. At the conclusion of the parade, there was an Oktoberfest celebration in Central Park. I was able to get to know many of the groups that participated in the parade during the celebration. To close out the weekend, we spent Sunday at Plattduetsche Park’s Ompahfest. During Ompahfest, a band from Germany performed. I even got to conduct the band for a song! It is hard to pick my favorite moment from the weekend because each event was special in its own way. However, I loved that I got to meet so many people that were happy to celebrate the German American friendship. I also loved laughing and dancing with our Grand Marshalls; Till Knorn and Gerard Rossbach. It was definitely a weekend that I will never forget!

A highlight of my year was going to Germany to celebrate Karneval in Köln. I participated in a parade in Hürth, went to a Sitzung and watched the Rosenmontag Parade. I am incredibly fortunate that I was able to continue the German American connections abroad and meet  with the Grand Marshall of the 2022 Steuben Parade, Dirk Breuer. It was a once in a lifetime trip and I am so grateful I was able to experience Karneval while being Queen.

I would like to thank my family for being part of all my adventures this past year and making sure I was at all the events on time! I also would like to extend my gratitude to Miss German American Chairlady, Connie Rom, for all her guidance throughout the year.

I will never forget my time as Miss German America and I feel so honored to be the 68th Queen. The memories and connections I have made this year have made a lasting impact on my life. To the next court, I hope you have an amazing experience as I have had and make sure you cherish every moment because being part of the Miss German American court is such a special opportunity.

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Responsibilities include:

Parade Weekend – the 69th Steuben Parade Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026 and weekend events

• Friday, Sept. 18th
  • Greeting at City Hall Park, 11:30 am
  • Gala and Silent Auction the evening on the 18th
• Saturday, Sept. 19th
  • St. Patrick’s Cathedral Church Service 9:00 am with breakfast to follow.
  • The Parade steps off at noon immediately followed by an Oktoberfest
• Sunday, Sept. 20th
  • Oompahfest at Plattduetsche Park, Franklin Square, NY)

Criteria:

• Must be a female 18-25 years of age, single, and an American citizen with a German-American Background
• General knowledge and speaking ability of the German language is preferred
• Must be able to participate in the events
• Must be able to attend the Crowning Ceremony events on Sunday, May 17, 2026 at Plattdeutsche Park Restaurant in Franklin Square, NY.

Application and Deadlines:

• Submit application, resume, cover letter, and recent photo by April 20, 2026 via email to: romco.MGA@gmail.com
  *Documents submitted per email should be separate attachments with the applicant’s
  lastname_firstname in the title of the document
  (e.g. LastnameFirstname-MGAapplication, LastnameFirstname-resume,
  LastnameFirstname-photo, RomConnie-MGAapplication, RomConnie-resume, etc.)
• Candidates must participate in person in an interview from 10am-noon on the day of the crowning event. Location to be finalized.
• The Queen and her Court will be presented at the crowning on Sunday, May 17 at Plattdeutsche Park Restaurant in Franklin Square, NY.

The Finalists will Receive:

• $5000 College Scholarship for Miss German-America
• $2500 College Scholarship for each Princess
• A Place of Honor on the Parade Float in New York City
• Special Honors at the Parade Gala & Silent Auction in NYC

The committee is encouraging all eligible candidates to apply!

Here are the applications:

2026 Applicant Letter

2026 Junior Application Interactive

2026 MGA Application Interactive

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All three talented and accomplished young ladies are extraordinary representatives of the rich German-
American heritage and culture that exists in the Greater NY Metropolitan area. They are proud to honor their German and Austrian ancestors and the traditions passed down to them through the years.
The crowning took place at Plattduetsche Park in Franklin Square, NY on Sunday, May 18th, 2025 in front of family, friends and supporters of the German-American Steuben Parade and the German-American Committee of Greater New York. Miss German-America 2025 receives a $5,000 scholarship, each princess will receive a $2,500 scholarship.

In addition to crowning Miss German-America 2025, a Junior General von Steuben, and 2 Junior Princesses were introduced. William Brand-Gikas, of Floral Park, NY is Junior General von Steuben. The Junior Princesses are: Charlotte Brand-Gikas, of Floral Park , NY, and Michaela Miskiewicz from North Bellmore, NY.

Over 110 guests were in attendance, including the Parade’s General Chairman Robert Radske, numerous
Steuben Parade Committee members, members of the German-American Committee of Greater New York and other various Club Presidents and Representatives from throughout the German-American community in the tri-state area.

Miss German-America and her Court have an extensive list of appearances scheduled in and around the
Greater NY Metropolitan area throughout the summer months leading up to the 68th German-American
Steuben Parade. The Court is also looking forward to the Steuben Parade Gala & Silent Auction to be held the evening before the Parade, on Friday, Sept. 19th , 2025, at Current at Chelsea Piers in NYC.

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