The Bingeman family and the late Rev. Michael Kraus are the newest members of the German Pioneers Day club.

They were honoured at a ceremony at the Concordia Club on Tuesday, as Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest celebrated the 26th annual German Pioneers Day, recognizing the entrepreneurial spirit and dedication that helped build the region.

The annual event has been a local cornerstone since 1999, when former MPP Wayne Wettlaufer created it to formally acknowledge the achievements of German individuals, families and organizations in shaping Ontario. The day is mandated by a provincial act to be held every year on the day after Thanksgiving.

Committee chair Dave Mendler explained that the Bingeman family was an obvious choice for recognition, noting the depth of their community ties.

“Whe

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