2008 Storytelling Contest

Even the marvels of high definition television can't compare with the theatre of the mind when great stories are told!

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Storytelling remains an important way for us to preserve our heritage, even as aging buildings in the old country deteriorate and "unser Leute" become more assimilated into cultures around the world. Last year at the Hays convention, many of our AHSGR members were mesmerized by the stories shared by the Storytelling Contest winners -- and now it's your turn!

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Not only is this a wonderful way to help preserve our heritage, the best storytellers will take home some cash! The First Place winner in the Adult Division will receive $100, Second Place receives $75, and Third Place wins $50. In the Youth Division for those 14 years old and younger, First Place is worth $50, Second Place is $30, and Third Place is $20. Additionally, all winners are awarded an AHSGR Youth Membership.

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Here's a link to the AHSGR 2008 Storytelling Contest Entry Form and Rules. Please note that all entry materials are to be sent to:

Ken Koehler

7831 Lewis Court

Arvada, CO 80005

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Entries must be received by April 15, 2008!

Coupled with the GRHS Youth Essay Contest, this competition is another splendid way of "Celebrating our Common Heritage" -- the theme of our 2008 joint convention in Casper, where the winners will be announced. It's also an opportunity to reach out and capture the interest and imagination of our young people -- a vital element in the future of both AHSGR and GRHS!

Froehliche Weihnachten!

We extend to you and your loved ones best wishes for a very

MERRY CHRISTMAS and a HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Governor Freudenthal Invited!

Wyoming Governor Dave Freudenthal has been invited to welcome attendees to the International Convention of Germans from Russia next summer in Casper.

While the Governor’s office is not yet able to confirm his participation, he has expressed a willingness to do so, as his schedule may allow.

In January, Freudenthal begins his sixth year as Governor. A native of Thermopolis, the 57-year-old Freudenthal grew up on a family farm – one of eight children. He graduated from Amherst College in 1973 and returned to Wyoming to work for the state. He was appointed State Planning Coordinator in 1975. While working for the state, Freudenthal simultaneously earned a law degree from the University of Wyoming. While his ancestry is definitely German, there appears to be no direct ties with Germans from Russia.

The Governor and his wife, Nancy, have four children.

The Governor has been invited to speak at the Thursday morning, July 31st opening ceremonies of the conference. Several other conference-related events will begin on Monday, July 28th. The week-long conference runs through Sunday, August 3rd at the Parkway Plaza Hotel & Convention Center in Casper.

To learn more about Dave Freudenthal and his family, visit the Governor’s official web site.