History is so much more than dates and the names of people deemed important by those who write it down and publish their works. “Do you know your great-grandmother? What was her name and how many children did she bear? What was your great-grandmother’s occupation?” These questions form the beginning of the “From the Author”…
Tis the season! The end of October through the beginning of January can sometimes seem like one long stretch of celebrations full of treats, rich food and festivities. “Happy Holidays!” sing out between friends, acquaintances, and complete strangers. Have you ever paused to wonder what holiday the greeter celebrates and why? Do you pace…
“I am Hutterite: The Fascinating True Story of a Young Woman’s Journey to Reclaim Her Heritage” provides a personal window into this little known ethnic group. While the author shares some of the challenges that come with living in such a community, she also shares the supportive nature, nurturing environment, and her appreciation…
Holidays are past. A new year and a new decade have begun. The end of January is approaching. Did you make New Year’s Resolutions or set goals for this year? How is that working out for you? Each day, each hour, each minute actually provides the opportunity to start again. However, it is the…
“The Last Bridge: Her Own True Story, Elvera Ziebart Reuer” is the story of the journey and evolution of a young woman caught up in the events of history. Forces beyond her control tear her life apart again and again. It is her courage, faith and tenacity that carry her and her family through…
Traditions are customs handed down through the generations by word of mouth or example. They start in memory or honor of an event, time, and/or person. Traditions enrich our lives by providing meaning and cultural continuity. They divide time into meaningful segments. Like the guard rails on the Autobahn, they can allow us to…
Did you know that a variety of German ethnic groups settled in Russia between the 16th and 19th Centuries at the invitation of the Tzars? Do you know why they immigrated to Russia? Where and how they lived? What precipitated their diaspora to the rest of the world? Did you know that some remain? A…