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Fair war in Cologne: charges against showman boss Otto Weber!
In Lindenthal, a dispute over the Deutz fair escalates: charges against showman boss Otto Weber for threats and violence.
Fair war in Cologne: charges against showman boss Otto Weber!
A shadow lies over the Cologne fair scene, and the conflict between the showmen takes on increasingly bizarre features. Otto Ernst Weber, a key player, has been criticized for alleged threats and violence. Loud Express Weber is accused of trying to intimidate his competitor Wilfried Hoffmann on February 23, 2024 at Wiener Platz. A companion of Weber stood in front of Hoffmann's car and made threats, which prompted him to call the police.
An hour later, Weber appeared with his wife and other people at the bumper car of Gilbert Hoffmann, Wilfried's son. His wife is said to have put pressure on Gilbert to withdraw his application for the Deutz fair, otherwise there would be violence. Gilbert stood his ground, which escalated the situation. A conflict that ended with a punch and one of Gilbert's friends injured leaves a bloody trail. The charges against Weber, which include insults, attempted coercion, threats and grievous bodily harm, were approved by a judge. The trial will begin in December.
A long-standing dispute
However, the incident is just the tip of the iceberg. The disputes between Weber and the Hoffmann family have been known for years. The Hoffmanns have now won the Deutzer Kirmes for 2024 after Weber previously acted as the responsible showman. But the hope for peace is suddenly ended for the time being, because the Deutz fair attracts around 100,000 visitors every year and is a financial magnet. Competition is fierce and ongoing conflicts could have a negative impact on the fair.
“We can do it!” is what you might be thinking in the city's head as the uncertainty surrounding the upcoming folk festivals weighs on you. Loud Photho The license for the Cologne Spring Festival 2024 was awarded to a private organizer, which was heavily criticized by the Cologne showmen community. They filed a lawsuit against the city of Cologne in November 2023, which caused additional trouble.
Prospects and challenges
Preparation for the upcoming festivities is complicated by disputes over the venue's power infrastructure, and a procurement order ensures uncertainty remains for the upcoming fair season. The city plans to reassign the hosting of the Deutz folk festivals from 2025 to 2029, with the focus on a transparent process. But the success of these plans is in jeopardy. In an article by Rhenish advertising papers The impending cancellation of the Easter fair in 2024 is even mentioned because an unsuccessful applicant is seeking a review of the award process.
The festival planned for April 19, 2024 could be in serious jeopardy, and the city must take urgent measures to prevent an empty Deutzer Werft during the Easter holidays. Quick action is required because Cologne showmen in particular are dependent on good business. The clock is ticking and nerves are on edge – both among the organizers and the showmen.