What an amazing 3 days we had of fun, feasting and family connections! Over 200 Roederers and Roederer descendants gathered in Louisville, including family from 22 states, 23 different immigrant branches and the 4 main places of origin – Diersburg, Friesenheim, Oberschopfheim and the French connection, Strasbourg! We had 9 from Germany, several who were visiting the US for the very first time!
I would first like to thank all who contributed with the sponsorship which covered the unexpected cost associated with the change of venue for the Friday night Meet and Greet. With so many generous contributions and a successful auction, we were able to meet our goal! There were several more sponsors who came forward after our sponsorship board was printed. I want to thank the many volunteers of whom there are too many to name.
The planning began well over a year ago and I am amazed and honored that so many people wanted to be a part of putting on this event. The key instigator was our Oberschopfheim cousin, Linda Pennington. She was with me every step of the way and did countless tasks behind the scenes – many were special surprises for everyone. Every time I heard her say “I have an idea”, I would get even more energized with the endless possibilities. All those extra little details… yes, much of that was Linda’s touch!
I want to share with you all a recap of the highlights of the weekend. When reviewing the event, I quickly realized that there is far too much to report in one newsletter. So we will have a multi-part recap over the next few weeks which will include some of our favorite pictures.
Now for a few important announcements regarding 1) merchandise, 2) photo access, 3) family stories, 4) lines of descent, and 5) an unfortunate loss.
Since some items were sell outs and requests for others are still coming in, we have decided to reopen the store for a limited time. Stay tuned for the announcement of when the store is open for business once again.
We appreciate Anita and Gary Terry being with us to capture those special moments all 3 days! They did a fantastic job!
Here’s a message from Anita and Gary with the photo gallery links…
Be sure to look through all the photographs to select printing choices or for digital downloads.
Anyone who would like for GJT Photography to custom print any of your selections, please contact us at the contact points listed below. We were thrilled to meet all of you and thoroughly enjoyed being with you all.
Friday, November, 2, 2018 – https://gjtphotoandvideo.
Saturday, November 3, 2018 – https://gjtphotoandvideo.
Sunday, November 4, 2018 – https://gjtphotoandvideo.
GJT Photography & Videography
Gary & Anita Terry
Contact Anita at: dja84@me.com or (502) 938-1925
Contact Gary at: gwterry1946@gmail.com or (502) 718-0255
During the 3 days together, we heard a lot of incredible family stories! Others would love to hear these stories, as well. Everyone received a memory tickler sheet with their registration packet. While gathering for the holidays, get out those family pictures and take a stroll down memory lane. Capture those wonderful memories and send them in to rhonda@roedererreunion.com, so that we can include them in the next publication. Feel free to include pictures and bring those memories to life!
Many of you received a little personalized surprise from Linda in your registration packets – your Line of Descent (LOD) starting from your immigrant ancestor. Please look them over for any obvious errors. Linda will be happy to make the corrections and email it back to you. Contact her at lrpenn@yahoo.com or call 636-227-7001.
Shortly after our Saturday night German Feast event at the German American Club, one of our cousins received word that her husband back home had suddenly passed away. This is a harsh reminder to us all of how important it is to not let time pass us by. Spend more time with loved ones, put aside any family differences, and make family time a priority.
By the way, I just have to share a little news flash… www.Ancestry.com has their DNA test kits 40% off until November 21st. This price of $59.00 is the lowest that I have ever seen and would make a perfect Christmas gift.
Stay tuned for the next edition of the Reunion Recap coming soon. We have lots of incredible news to share. Wishing everyone a safe and Happy Thanksgiving.
Cousin Rhonda
Rhonda@RoedererReunion.com
504-452-4370