2001/01/03
Dear Family and Friends:
Hallo! Hello! ¡Saludos!
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!
For all the purists out there, welcome to the new millennium! The 21st century is finally here. And for the Riefkohl family and friends, this means lots of more research, information sharing, and hopefully many family reunions.
But first, lets greet the newest members of our family. Francesco Salvatore Larata-Riefkohl was born on July 20, 2000. His parents are Claudie M. Riefkohl and Salvatore Larata, who reside in Miami, Florida. Claudie was born in Puerto Rico and is the daughter of Rafael J. Riefkohl. On December 22, 2000, at 2:45 PM, Hans Ernesto(Johann Ernst) Riefkohl was born at the Pavía Hospital in Santurce, Puerto Rico. Hans Ernesto is the grandson of none other than our genealogical guru, Ernesto Riefkohl. Congratulations!
As the new year opens, many of you may be planning family reunions. Large or small, these gatherings are always lots of fun and help us keep in touch with our dear ones. As you begin to make plans for these events, please let us know in advance so that we can share the information on our website. We know that there are many who would love to travel and meet new family members. We had a family reunion in Phoenix, Arizona last October. Hopefully we'll have another this year. We'll let you know so that you can start making your plans to visit us in the Valley of the Sun!
Our genealogical research continues. Tobi has been very active pursuing various leads. He has made contact with a member of the von Schnehen family. In addition, he has located information about Riefkohls in Goettingen who precede Georg Daniel. He is also pursuing research on the Riepkogel surname, that is believed to be a variation of the Riefkohl surname. As Tobi finds information, Ernesto is busy trying to put all this information in perspective. As soon as we have information that can be shared with all, we will post it on our website.
And speaking about research, please take a moment to look at any information or documents you may have about your family. If you find something unusual/interesting/exciting, please share with us. Send us an email and we will share with all.
For those of you (most of you) who still have not sent Tobi your biographical data and photo, please try do it this year!!! We have a wonderful section on our website were we can put your picture (individual or family), and information about you and your family.
Finally, for those of you who celebrate the Three Kings Day (Epiphany), a very happy one! I know that the children in Puerto Rico will be very excited the morning of January 6 as they look under their beds for the presents that the Three Kings brought.
Have a great week!
Raúl