by Herwig Wandschneider

Some 50 Region of Waterloo High School and University students, who competed for German Language Excellence Awards earlier this year, will receive their certificates and monetary awards at the Wilfred L. Bitzer Event to be held Tuesday September 27, 2005 at 7:30 pm at the Maureen Forrester Recital Hall of Wilfrid Laurier University, 75 University Ave West in Waterloo.

Businesses and individuals have contributed significant funds in support of the awards, which are organized through the German Canadian Education Fund (GCEF), a registered charity and division of the German-Canadian Business and Professional Association of Kitchener-Waterloo, in cooperation with the School Board and the Universities.

President of the GCEF, Dr. Marga Weigel, and co-champions of the cause on the Executive and Board have been able to raise ever-increasing funds for the awards. Participants are expected to include K-W University Presidents, academics and area politicians, consuls of Germany, Austria and Switzerland, in addition to executives of major companies, who will present awards in person.

In past years, in excess of $20K have been awarded to deserving students. This year, for the first time, $7K alone will be awarded to the 7 best students in their respective categories.

Keynote speaker this year will be President and CEO of Mercedes Benz Canada, Mr. Marcus W. Breitschwerdt.

Last year, some 300 people attended the ceremonies and subsequent reception. The public and media are invited.