This week at CGS! (October 2-8)

by Jennifer Dix (9/30/2023)

To register or for more information, click the link for each event. All times are Pacific Time.

It’s here! Our 125th Anniversary Celebration!

Two wine glassesMonday, October 2, is the last day to buy tickets to the 125th Anniversary Celebration! Join us Sunday, October 8, noon-3 p.m., as we celebrate 125 years of history. The bulk of the tickets are sold, but there are still some available–if you act fast!

We’re so happy to be gathering in person again. Join us for a party at the Lake Temescal Beach House in Oakland. This beautiful spot offers indoor and outdoor seating. Enjoy a luncheon buffet with California wines, live music, games, and more! Each guest receives a commemorative wine glass and a chance to win a gift basket filled with genealogical goodies. There will also be a raffle of other themed gift baskets. Full details HERE.

Also this week:

Wednesday, Oct. 4, 11 AM: “Tips & Talk at the Oakland FamilySearch Center. This week: “Intro to Genealogy: Getting Started Part 2 – Basic Research Strategies.” Jane Lindsey, CGS member & OFSC volunteer, will explain the proper methods used to compile a genealogy, how to verify and record information, and what records can easily be found to expand your tree. NOTE: This class is also a good review for people getting back into genealogy. BYO lunch to chat with others and then stay to receive additional assistance. Free; held in person at the Oakland FamilySearch Center.

Saturday, Oct. 7, 10 AM: Intro to Genealogy. A series of 4 rotating classes covering the basics of genealogical research. This month: “The Census.” Free. Via Zoom.

Library hours: Thursday and Friday 10 AM-2 PM and Saturday 10 AM-4 PM

Helpful Links
Events: https://www.californiaancestors.org/events-and-education/
Special Interest Groups: https://www.californiaancestors.org/special-interest-groups-for-members/
Calendar: Google calendar

Let’s connect!

by Jennifer Dix (9/27/2023)

Logo with Member ConnectionsHave you seen Member Connections? It’s a database where CGS members can share their interests and connect with others with similar interests. You don’t have to be a professional genealogist or an expert; just someone who’s willing to engage with other society members!

Over 120 members have signed up so far, but we’d love more! If you haven’t already submitted your profile to Member Connections, it’s easy to do. You can find complete instructions on our website.

Thank you for being a member of CGS!

Link: https://www.californiaancestors.org/member-connections/

This week at CGS (September 25-October 1)

by Jennifer Dix (9/24/2023)

To register or for more information, click the link for each event. All times are Pacific Time.

*Special presentation*

picture of Jill Morelli

Saturday, September 30: We are excited to host Seattle-based genealogist Jill Morelli, CG, CGL, in a Zoom presentation! In her talk, “Be A Super Sleuth! Accessing and Using Image Records,” Jill will share her insights about accessing digitized but not-yet indexed records on the FamilySearch website. She will help orient us to the vast collection of imaged documents (more than 5 billion) to be found on FamilySearch and give tips on how to find your ancestors in these records. Jill is a very popular lecturer and teacher.

Special Interest Groups meeting this week:

Monday, September 25, 7 PM: Advanced DNA SIG. Mark McLaren leads this group where members can further develop their understanding of DNA techniques, review new developments in DNA testing and tools, and discuss members’ research problems and case studies.

Wednesday, September 27, 11 AM: “Tips & Talk at the Oakland FamilySearch Center. This week: Denise Plaskett continues her series on things you may not know about the FamilySearch website. Limited to 14 hands-on students; registration via Eventbrite is encouraged. Today’s topics include how to easily find a relative on FamilySearch, different tree views, and an introduction to the TreeFind site.

Wednesday, September 27, 6:30 PM – RootsMagic Special Interest Group. Keith Montgomery leads a discussion of helpful hints for users of this popular genealogy platform. Via Zoom.

Almost here!

Two wine glassesSunday, October 8: Grab your tickets for our gala 125th Anniversary Celebration, held at Lake Temescal! A chance to mix and mingle with fellow family-history enthusiasts in a beautiful lakeside setting. (Outdoor seating will be available.) The party features live music, a delicious buffet with California wines, some terrific door prizes, and a raffle! Free commemorative wine glass for each guest.

Click HERE to buy tickets.

Helpful information

Library hours: Thursday and Friday 10 AM – 2 PM and Saturday 10 AM – 4 PM

Helpful Links
Events: https://www.californiaancestors.org/events-and-education/
Special Interest Groups: https://www.californiaancestors.org/special-interest-groups-for-members/
Calendar: Google calendar