San Diego Genealogical Society

This week at the Library January 30- February 4, 2012

2012-01-29T13:55:00.000-08:00

Wednesday 1 February 10 A.M.-Class-Organizing Your Records

Thursday 2 February 10 A.M.-Library open to the public

Saturday 4 February 10 A.M.-Family Tree Maker User Group

SDGS at Jamboree

2011-06-09T16:10:00.000-07:00

Our Jamboree crew is in Burbank setting up the SDGS booth. When Jamboree starts tomorrow 10 June we will have over 40 boxes of books for sale.

Bring a pocket full of cash or, for the first time, you credit card. SDGS is finally able to take plastic for our book sales.

This Week at the Library June 6 - 11, 2011

2011-06-06T09:40:00.000-07:00

Monday 6 June 10 A.M. - SDGS Writers Group at the library

Wednesday 8 June 10 A.M. - Computer Basics: Browsers at the library
6:30 P.M. - Board of Directors meeting at the library

Thursday 9 June 10 A.M. - Library open to the public

Saturday 11 June 10 A.M. - Monthly Meeting at St. Andrews Lutheran Church
1. 12 Step Program to Find that Elusive Ancestor
2. Organizing Your Family History

The SCGS Jamboree is in Burbank June 10 - 12. SDGS will have a booth selling genealogy books and periodicals. This is our sale of duplicate titles. All are in very good condition and excellent research material. Exceptional prices.

This week at the library 30 May - Jun 4, 2011

2011-05-30T06:23:00.000-07:00

Kind of a slow week ahead.

Wed June 1 10 A.M. Class: Bibliographies and Indexes by Miriam Gitchoff

Thu June 2 10 A.M. The library is open to the general public

Sat June 4 10 A.M. Family Treemaker users group

Members have 24 hour access.

This week at the library

2011-05-23T08:58:00.000-07:00

Lot of good stuff at the library this week.

Wed 25 May 10 A.M. Brickwalls! Get help figuring out how to find great grandad.

Thur 26 May 10 A.M. Open to the public until P.M.

Fri 27 May 10 A.M. The San Diego Special Interest Group meets. If you have ancestors from San Diego city or county this is the place for you.

Sat 28 May 9 A.M. until 1 P.M. Open to the public. If you are not a member, come on down and get acquainted. Even if you are a member come on in.

Sat 28 May 10 A.M. Rootsmagic users group.

Annual Genealogy Jamboree

2011-04-25T07:39:00.000-07:00

The Annual Genealogy Jamboree in Burbank is June 10-12. This is sponsored by Southern California Genealogical Society and is a great event. Their Jamboree Page is located here.

The San Diego Genealogical Society has a special deal with a train trip to Burbank and back to San Diego. There is a special deal on hotel reservations in Burbank. You can get the application form here. Hurry because pre-registration ends this Saturday, April 30.

SDGS is going to have a booth at Jamboree. We will have genealogy related used books for sale. This has been a very successful event for SDGS in past years. I have seen some of the titles that are going to be available for sale and they look good. I will post some of the titles later.

Who Do You Think You Are - Season 2

2011-01-28T13:56:00.000-08:00

The NBC program Who Do You Think You Are is returning for its second season on Friday February 4 at 8 P.M. The first episode researches Vanessa Williams' family.

You can learn more at NBC.com.

SDGS Library Catalog Online

2011-01-27T20:08:00.000-08:00

We finally have our San Diego Genealogical Society Library catalog online! It was a lot of work on Miriam's and her volunteers part but it is now ready for use. Go to the SDGS web site at casdgs.org and click on the Library link. That takes you to the description page and opens a link to the catalog.

Currently there are 9992 titles available for searching. The database has already sorted 123 categories and 159 locations. The user is also able to do specific searched on all or part of titles, author or call number.

This is an excellent addition to the society and is available to members and non-members alike.

Danish Archives

2011-01-20T06:27:00.000-08:00

I just saw a message on the Danish message list at Rootsweb that the Danish Archives no longer requires a log in.

In the past a user had to create an account and log in each time you accessed the site. No More!

The Danish Archives Online, arkivalieronline.dk, offers images of the parish record books and national censuses. An excellent resource for research.

Of course it helps to be able to sort of read the old Danish text and script.

SDGS Board of Directors

2011-01-12T07:31:00.000-08:00

One of the prime functions of our annual meeting is the installation of our board of directors. A complete list of board members and committee heads is on our webpage at casdgs.org.

Most of the members still have time to serve on their ~~sentences~~ terms. However, the following are new board members or they are in different positions.

Second Vice President: Nancy Quandt
Secretary: Anne Alves
Historian: Kristeen McCollough
Special Events: Diane Lott

Welcome to the Board of Directors and thank you for your service.

Happy New Year

2011-01-01T00:01:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone has a happy and successful 2011. May all of your brick walls tumble before your eyes.

Buy an external hard drive and donate $1.11 to the SDGS

2010-11-28T08:46:00.000-08:00

Staples.com is having a 2 day Cyber Monday sale. One of the items is a Western Digital 2 TB external hard drive for only $69.99! Two terabytes is the equivalent of 1,388,888 3.5 inch floppy disks! Since the purchase is over $50 the shipping is free.

I took a look at the flier and read the specs on the hard drive and it's pre-formatted for a PC so all you have to do is plug in the power block and the usb connection. Your computer should recognize it and you are good to go. Mac users will have to format the drive for Mac use.

Sixty Nine dollars and Ninety Nine cents is an excellent price for a drive this size. But the nifty thing is that Staples.com is one of the Igive.com partners. If you create an Igive account then log on to the Staples.com site your purchase will generate a $1.11 donation to SDGS.

This sale is only good November 28 and 29, 2010.

This has been another shameless plug.

A Shameless Plea

2010-11-22T19:58:00.000-08:00

This is probably getting a little bit late in the season but it is worth a shot.

The Society is affiliated with igive.com as a means to help us raise money for the Society. We have talked about igive.com in the past so I will just mention that if you sign up with I-Give then do your online shopping from their list of stores, the Society will get a small kickback for everything you purchase.

A quick sampling of stores and the percentage of rebate to the Society:

Barnes & Noble or Borders 2.4%, Cabela's 1.6%, Dell Business or Dell Home .8%, Harry & David 4.8%. If you use Turbo Tax buy it online through I-Give and the Society will get 6% of your purchase price. If you just get the free version through your I-Give account the society will get $0.40! If you don't have an online back-up system yet, subscribe to Carbonite.com and they will kickback 12%.

For you out of towners who will be coming to the Annual Meeting and Seminar on 8 January, 2011 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, book your reservation through I-Give and the Society will get 3.2% of your cost.

The nice thing is that by going through igive.com the Society raises needed money but it does not add anything to your bill. It's an easy way to donate to the society.

Just go to www.igive.com and look around. If you want to sign up in the "Find a Cause" form search on California, All Cause Types and the keyword Genealogical. Our society is the first one listed.

Important Meeting on November 13

2010-11-10T20:29:00.000-08:00

Our monthly meeting on November 13, at St. Andrews Lutheran Church, is really important for a couple of reasons.

Number one is that it is time to vote for next years board of directors. If you don't come and vote for the board of directors you don't have any room to complain about them. Of course that is just my opinion.

Number two reason is the announcement of our monthly meeting hours for 2011. There are going to be some changes made and it would behoove you to show up for the announcement. This will also affect the beginning genealogy classes and the RootsMagic Users group.

See the previous blog entry about our speaker.

Our speaker at the November 13 Meeting

2010-11-10T20:25:00.000-08:00

Monthly Meeting
November 13, 2010
St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church
Speaker: Hal Horrocks
Preserving Your Heirlooms and Cemeteries: What They Tell Us

How does one decide what to save, give away, or toss? Learn how to develop a preservation strategy and which methods and tools to use.

Have you ever wandered through a cemetery and wondered about the meanings for the designs carved on the old gravestones? Learn the proper etiquette when exploring and conducting research in a cemetery.

I'd better get back to work

2010-11-04T16:47:00.000-07:00

I am back from my summer in Nebraska. I had only planned on being gone for two months but that dragged on to almost four months. My online time was limited to only about 2 hours a day so I certainly didn't spend much of it doing SDGS stuff.

A lot has happened at SDGS during my stay in the hinterlands.

There is a major change coming concerning the people who come to the Rootsmagic Users Group before each monthly meeting.

I don't know if the change in the monthly meeting schedule has been promulgated, but you will get it, unofficially, right here.

Effective with the February meeting we will start the regular meetings at 10 A.M. and be finished by 1 P.M.

That means that the RootsMagic Users Group will not be held before each meeting. We are going to have to come up with some other time and place.

I am considering changing to meeting at the SDGS library at 7347 Ronson Rd, Suite O. That will be a pain for you folks that live in the East County. However it is pretty easy to get to the library.

As for meeting time I am looking at the 4th Saturday of the month. Our monthly meeting is on the 2nd Saturday and several of us go to the CGSSD meeting on the 3rd Saturday. There is a Senior Computer Users group that meets in Mission Beach on the 1st Saturday, I think. I don't know of anything on the 4th Saturday.

I chose Saturday as there is not a lot happening at the SDGS library on Saturday and the freeway traffic is usually lighter than during the week.

Go ahead and post any comments here. I will also discuss this at our November 13 monthly meeting.

This Week at the Library 8 August - 14 August 2010

2010-08-07T12:03:00.000-07:00

Wednesday 11 August 10 A.M. - Noon - Computer Basics - Mac Users
6:30 P.M. - 8 P.M. - Board of Directors Meeting

Thursday 12 August 10 A.M. - 3 P.M. - Library Open to the Public

Saturday 14 August 10 A.M. - 11:30 A.M. - Basic Genealogy Class - Census Records
10 A.M. - 11:30 A.M. - RootsMagic Users Group
Noon - 2 P.M. - Monthly Meeting - Speaker Chris Hansen - Topics 1. U.S. Military Records and Uniforms, 2. U.S. Migration Patterns from Colonial Times through WW II

This Week at the Library 1 August - 7 August 2010

2010-07-31T15:27:00.000-07:00

Monday 2 August 10 A.M. - Noon - Writer's Group

Wednesday 4 August 10 A.M. - Noon - Class - Land/Homestead Act

Thursday 5 August 10 A.M. - 3 P.M. - Library Open to the Public

Saturday 7 August 10 A.M. - Noon - Family Treemaker Users Group

Roommates Needed for SLC Trip

2010-07-16T18:14:00.000-07:00

Are you thinking of going to the SDGS Research trip in Salt Lake City this October, but hesitate because you don't have a roommate to share the costs?
Two members, one a man and the other a woman, have asked to be matched up with a roommate for the trip. If you are interested in signing on as a roommate, please let Kristeen McCollough know as soon as possible. She can be reached by email at kristeenealogy@cox.net or call 619.820.2552.

This Week at the Library 11 July - 17 July 2010

2010-07-10T10:36:00.000-07:00

Wednesday 14 July 10 A.M. to Noon - Computer Basics - Printer controls

Thursday 15 July 10 A.M. to 3 P.M. - Library Open to the Public

This Week at the Library 4 July - 10 July 2010

2010-07-03T11:01:00.000-07:00

Sunday 4 July - HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY

Monday 5 July 10 A.M. - Noon - Writer's Group

Wednesday 7 July 10 A.M. - Noon - Basic Genealogy Class - County Histories
6:30 P.M. - 8 P.M. - Board of Directors Meeting

Thursday 8 July 10 A.M. - 3 P.M. - Library Open to the Public

Saturday 10 July 10 A.M. - 11:30 A.M. - Genealogy Basics Class
10 A.M. - 11:30 A.M. - Rootsmagic Users Group
Noon - 2 P.M. - Monthly Meeting - Speaker - Gena Philibert Ortega: Copyright, Plagiarism and Privacy

Salt Lake City Research Trip - Flyer is out!

2010-06-30T19:29:00.000-07:00

The latest San Diego Genealogical Society newsletter contains the flyer to sign up for the SDGS's research trip to Salt Lake City. For those who went last year, the trip should look pretty familiar as it is based on a tried and true itinerary. For those who are thinking of going, be sure to read the article in the next newsletter to be better prepared. If you have any questions, get in touch with Kris at kristeenealogy@cox.net.

July History Mystery Tour full

2010-06-30T19:17:00.000-07:00

Anyone who was thinking about going on the July History Mystery and did not get on the list will be disappointed to learn that we are already full. Ten members will be carpooling to the new NARA facility in Perris, Ca. on July 20 for a guided tour and orientation. This is NOT a research trip, but those going are looking forward to seeing the facility and having a special understanding of what it is like when our speaker from NARA talks about it at the October seminar. There is a waiting list for any member who might want to go in place of someone if they have to drop out. Contact Kris at kristeenealogy@cox.net if you want to be put on the waiting list.

This Week at the Library 27 June - 3 July 2010

2010-06-26T13:54:00.000-07:00

Thursday 1 July 10 A.M. to 3 P.M. - Library open to the public

Saturday 3 July 10 A.M. to Noon - Family Tree Maker Users Group

June History Mystery Tour

2010-06-25T10:52:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, June 26 at 10am SDGS members will meet at the William Heath Davis House, the oldest wooden structure in downtown San Diego that now serves as a museum. All peices in the house are from the mid to late 1800's. Each room is an exhibit of the house's different residents, one e of which was Alonzo Horton. Following the self-guided tour of the house, we will go on a guided walking tour of the Gaslamp Quarter. There are small admission fees for both tours. After the tours we will meet at a Gaslamp Quarter restaurant for lunch. Carpooling is available. If you are an SDGS member and interested in attending, please call Kris at 619.820.2552 or email at kristeenealogy@cox.net.

This Week at the Library - 20 June - 26 June 2010

2010-06-20T07:18:00.000-07:00

Monday 21 June 10 A.M. to Noon - Writer's Group

Wednesday 23 June 10 A.M. to Noon - Brick Walls

Thursday 24 June 10 A.M. to 3 P.M. - Open to the Public

Saturday 26 June 9 A.M. to 1 P.M. - Open to the Public

This Week at the Library - 13 June - 19 June 2010

2010-06-12T16:15:00.000-07:00

Wednesday 16 June 10 A.M. - Noon - Genealogy Class - Mexico/Spain/Hispanic research

Thursday 17 June 10 A.M. - 3 P.M. - Library Open to the Public

Saturday 19 June 9 A.M. - Noon - Computer Genealogy Society of San Diego Meeting
Not a SDGS library event.

This Week at the Library - 6 June - 12 June 2010

2010-06-05T09:35:00.000-07:00

Monday 7 June 10 A.M. to Noon - SDGS Writer's Group

Wednesday 9 June 10 A.M. to Noon - Basic Computer - Browsers/e-mail
6:30 P.M. to 8 P.M. - Board of Directors Meeting

Thursday 10 June 10 A.M. to 3 P.M. - Library open to the public

Saturday 12 June 10 A.M. to 11:30 A.M. - Basic Genealogy Class - Computer Resources
10 A.M. to 11:30 A.M. - RootsMagic Users Group
12 A.M. to 2 P.M. - SDGS Monthly Meeting

The Saturday 12 June events are at St. Andrews Lutheran Church.
The speaker for the monthly meeting is Robert Brenner. His topics are 1. Sailing to America, 2. Castle Garden, 1855-1890.

Also just a note that the Southern California Genealogical Society 41st Annual Genealogy Jamboree is June 11 through June 13 in Burbank.

This Week at the Library - 30 May - 5 June 2010

2010-05-30T16:01:00.000-07:00

Wednesday 2 June 10 A.M. to Noon - Basic Genealogy Class - Passenger Lists

Thursday 3 June 10 A.M. to 3 P.M. - Library Open to the Public

Saturday 5 June 10 A.M. to Noon - FamilyTreemaker Users Group

All events at the library at 7343 Ronson Rd, Ste. O, San Diego

History Mystery Tour 29 May

2010-05-24T20:14:00.000-07:00

I just got the following from Kris announcing this weeks History Mystery Tour. There is a limit to the number of people who can attend, so if you want to go you have to contact Kris.

Saturday May 29 at 11am
Leo Carrillo Ranch Tour
6200 Flying Leo Carrillo Lane
Carlsbad

The tour starts promptly at 11am so it would be a good idea to arrive a little early. If you need directions or would like to carpool, please reply to this message ASAP!

Remember to bring your $5.00 donation to SDGS and any donation you might want to make to the Friends of Leo Carrillo Ranch

Lunch following at Casa De Bandini Restaurant 1901 Calle Barcelona Carlsbad

Optional Additional Event Carlsbad Library Visit Until 5pm 1250 Carlsbad Village Drive Carlsbad

This Week at the Library - 23 May - 29 May 2010

2010-05-23T15:17:00.000-07:00

Wednesday 26 May 10 a.m. to Noon - Brickwalls

Thursday 27 May 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. - Library Open to the Public

Saturday 29 May 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. - History Mystery Tour

This Week at the Library - 16 May - 22 May 2010

2010-05-16T13:55:00.000-07:00

Monday 17 May 10 a.m. to noon - Writer's Group

Wednesday 19 May 10 a.m. to noon - Genealogy Class - Danish and Scandinavian Research

Thursday 20 May 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. - Library Open to the Public

Saturday 22 May 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. - Library Open to the Public

This Week at the Library - 9 May - 15 May 2010

2010-05-09T06:31:00.000-07:00

Tuesday 11 May 11:30 A.M. to 1 P.M. - Jamboree Info Session - for people who have signed up for SDGS event

Wednesday 12 May 10 A.M. to Noon - Computer Basics - Moving Data

Thursday 13 May 10 A.M. to 3 P.M. - Library Open to the Public

Saturday 15 May 9 A.M. to Noon - CGSSD Meeting

1890 US Census

2010-05-03T17:52:00.000-07:00

I was at the San Diego Public Library this afternoon and spoke with Rick Crawford the director of the California Room and the Genealogy Room.

He mentioned that he had an article in the 1 May 2010 San Diego Union concerning the 1890 census. It seems that there were people then who didn't want the census people interfering and snooping. Today is nothing new!

It is an interesting read if you still have Saturdays paper. If you don't have the paper here is a link to the article. 1890-census-raised-ruckus-in-sd

This Week at the Library - 2 May - 8 May 2010

2010-05-01T17:17:00.000-07:00

Monday 3 May 10 a.m. - noon - Writers Group

Wednesday 5 May 10 a.m. - noon - Genealogy Class - Church records/Cemeteries
6:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. - Board of Directors Monthly Meeting

Thursday 6 May 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. - Library Open to the Public

Saturday 8 May - Saint Andrews Lutheran Church, 8350 Lake Murray Blvd.
10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. - Basic Genealogy - Vital Records
10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. - RootsMagic Users Group
12 a.m. - 2 p.m. - Monthly Meeting - Wendy Elliott, presenter

Wendy's topics are: "Tracking our Fore-Mothers" and "Writing and Publishing Your Work"

This Week at the Library 26 April 2010 to 1 May 2010

2010-04-24T18:00:00.000-07:00

Wednesday 28 April 10 a.m. to Noon - Brick Walls

Thursday 29 April 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. - Library open to the public

Saturday 1 May 10 a.m. to Noon - Family Treemaker Users Group

This Week at the Library 18 April - 24 April

2010-04-18T17:32:00.000-07:00

Monday 19 April 10 a.m. to Noon - Writer's Group

Wednesday at the Library 21 April 10 a.m. to Noon - Class - Canadian Research

Thursday 22 April 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. - Library Open to the Public

Friday 23 April 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. - History/No Mystery - Historical Doll Presentation

Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. - Library Open to the Public

Jamboree

2010-04-16T15:04:00.001-07:00

Attending Jamboree? If so, be sure to look for us this year in the Exhibit Hall! We'll have books to sell, membership information available, and familiar faces! Be sure to stop by to say "Hi" and let us know what you're learning and enjoying at Jamboree!

Jamboree 2010

2010-04-14T18:22:00.000-07:00

For anyone interested in signing up for Jamboree and who want a one-on-one session for registration, meet with SDGS Special Events Director Kris McCollough at the SDGS Library on Saturday, April 17, 12:30pm - 2pm.

Don't forget to take advantage of the Early Bird Special which ends April 30!

Jamboree Pre-registration will continue May 1-31.

Tuesday, May 11 will be our info session - past Jamboree attendees will fill you in on all you need to know while you fill in on lunch (or whatever else you bring to munch on). Highly recommended if you have never been and recommended to all for getting acquainted with fellow attendees. At the library from 11:30am to 1pm.

This Week at the Library 11 April 2010 to 17 April 2010

2010-04-11T11:27:00.000-07:00

Tuesday 13 April 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. - Reunion Users Group (Mac computers)

Wednesday 14 April 10 a.m. to noon - Computer Basics - Microsoft File Extensions

Thursday 15 April 10 a.m. to 3 p..m. - Library open to the public

This Week at the Library 4 April 2010 to 10 April 2010

2010-04-03T17:14:00.000-07:00

Monday 5 April 10 a.m. to Noon: Writers Group

Wednesday 7 April 10 a.m. to Noon: Basic Genealogy Class - Bibliographies and Indexes
6:30 - 7:30 p.m.: Board of Directors Meeting

Thursday 8 April 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.: Library Open to the Public

Saturday 10 April 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.: Basic Genealogy - Census Records
10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.: RootsMagic Users Group
Noon to 2 p.m.: Monthly Meeting - Speaker Barbara Renick

The Saturday events are at St. Andrews Lutheran Church, 8350 Lake Murray Blvd., San Diego

Who Do You Think You Are 2 April

2010-04-02T09:36:00.000-07:00

Tonight's episode highlights the genealogy of Brooke Shields. I saw a teaser on NBC.com that showed her touching King Henry IV's heart.

Don't know how much I'd want to touch my grandpa's heart, but...

The show airs at 8 p.m. on NBC

Hello Dolly! April 23 at 11am

2010-03-28T14:52:00.000-07:00

Instead of a History-Mystery tour in April, SDGS member and former President Gloria Osborn will share her wealth of knowledge about dolls - their place in history and their value as collectibles today. She will open her home to a limited number of members, where she has her own large and varied collection. You are invited you to bring your own dolls for her to evaluate.

Following our visit with Gloria we will be having lunch at nearby Guadalajara's Mexican Restaurant.

If you are interested in attending, please call Kris at 619-820-2552 or email kristeenealogy@cox.net

March History Mystery - REVEALED

2010-03-28T14:48:00.000-07:00

Our March History-Mystery Tour will be in Old Town San Diego where we will enjoy a guided tour and lunch at El Fandango.

Wednesday is a Living History Day with staff dressed in period costume and demonstrations of carpentry, quilting, etc.

Some spots left - if you are inteested call Kris at 619-820-2552 or email kristeenealogy@cox.net.

This Week at the Library 21 March to 3 April 2010

2010-03-27T19:27:00.000-07:00

Wednesday 31 March 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. - History Mystery - It's a secret. Attendance limited.

Thursday 1 April 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. - Don't be an April Fool. The library is open to the public.

Saturday 3 April 10a.m. to Noon - The FamilyTreemaker users group discusses, what else, FamilyTreemaker.

This week at the library

2010-03-21T08:37:00.000-07:00

It's a slow week.

Wednesday, 24 March 2010
10 a.m. to Noon Class: Brick Walls

Thursday, 25 March 2010
10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Library open to the public

Saturday, 27 March 2010
9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Library open to the public

KPBS interview of Pam Journey

2010-03-18T15:21:00.000-07:00

As a filler before one of the "Faces of America', with Henry Louis Gates, Jr. San Diego's KPBS interviewed our librarian, Pam Journey.

A producer and videographer were at the library for about three hours videotaping the interview and our facility. The attached video clip is about a minute and a half.

KPBS generously allowed us to post the video clip on our blog.

"Who Do You Think You Are"

2010-03-17T16:54:00.000-07:00

I am on an Ancestry.com mailing list that is promoting "Who Do You Think You Are". I will just cut and paste the synopsis of this weeks episode and include a link to a teaser at NBC. The teaser is on NBC's page that is all about the series. If you missed episodes 1 and 2 there are links for you to watch them on your computer.

This Week’s Episode

You won’t want to miss this week’s episode. Lisa Kudrow sets out to learn the hard truth about what really happened to her Jewish ancestors who remained behind in Belarus during World War II. Despite the cold details of how the Holocaust impacted her family, Lisa’s episode ends with a silver lining.

Check out the teaser featuring Lisa Kudrow, and tune into NBC for the full episode on Friday at 8/7c.

Tell Your Friends!

2010-03-16T08:44:00.000-07:00

Just like those featured on the NBC series "Who Do You Think You Are?" your friends can find their ancestors, too! Tell them to call (858) 279-SDGS (7347) and we'll help them get started. Free!

This Week at the Library 14 - 20 March 2010

2010-03-14T09:43:00.000-07:00

Monday 15 March: Writer's Group 10 a.m. to noon

Wednesday 17 March: Class - England/Wales 10 a.m. to noon

Thursday 18 March: Library open to the public 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Saturday 20 March: SDGS bus trip to Los Angeles Public Library

igive.com for SDGS

2010-03-12T17:08:00.000-08:00

I challenge anyone else to sign up for SDGS on igive.com and do some searches/shopping to contribute donations to our Society. Let' shoot for $25.00 total by the end of March.

I'll buy one Snicker's bar for every member who signs up and uses this site!

Spring Ahead, Fall Back

2010-03-12T06:36:00.000-08:00

If you have to get up on time on Sunday 14 March don't forget to set your clocks ahead one hour before you go to bed on Saturday.

Daylight Savings Time begins on Sunday 14 March 2010.

Los Angeles Public Library bus trip

2010-03-10T22:09:00.000-08:00

The bus trip to the Los Angeles Public Library on 20 March needs more riders!

The special events chairperson said that the trip is in jeopardy because there have not been enough people sign up. If you are considering going, contact Kris immediately. There is a flier application at LA Public Library trip. The flier also has contact information for Kris. She needs to know by Friday 12 March!

The Los Angeles Public Library has one of the largest collections of City Directories in Southern California. If you had ancestors in a city between censuses that published a City Directory you need to go to LA. The library also has extensive collection of county histories that could be of use.

Even if the two items I mentioned don't excite you, just go along for an enjoyable day and support SDGS.

This week at the library

2010-03-06T14:41:00.000-08:00

Wednesday 10 March:
10 a.m. to noon: Computer Basics Class: Scanner Help

6:30 p.m.: Board of Directors meeting

Thursday 11 March:
10 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.: Library open to the public

Saturday 13 March:
10 to 11:30 a.m.: Basic Genealogy class at St. Andrew's Lutheran Church

10 to 11:30 a.m.: Rootsmagic Users Group at St. Andrew's Lutheran Church

12 noon to 2:00 p.m.: Monthly Meeting at St. Andrew's Lutheran Church
Guest Speaker: Wayne Anderson
1. When the absence of information was a clue
2. What we learned on the way to proving something was not true

2010 Census

2010-03-03T10:52:00.000-08:00

The 2010 Federal Census is about to commence so it is time to start putting out the scam alerts.

The US Code, Title 13, Section 221 states that everyone is required to answer the census questions truthfully.

However there are scammers out there who try to exploit this. Here are a few things to be aware of:

1. The Census Bureau does NOT conduct the census over the internet.
2. The Census Bureau does NOT send emails concerning the census.
3. The Census Bureau NEVER asks for your social security number, ask for money, represent a political organization or ask for PINS, account numbers, etcetera.

If a person purports to be from the Census Bureau you can request to see their ID and they must show it to you. They will have a Census Badge and you can ask for a second ID.

The following link is to a Census Bureau web page explaining who to contact if you think you are being scammed. Census Bureau Scam page.

"Who Do You Think You Are"

2010-03-02T20:04:00.000-08:00

While I am on the subject of television I was sent some more promotional material on the NBC series that starts on Friday 5 March. See my earlier entry for more information.

The email I got today lists the celebrity and the date of their episode.

March 5 – Sarah Jessica Parker
March 12 – Emmitt Smith
March 19 – Lisa Kudrow
March 26 – Matthew Broderick
April 2 – Brooke Shields
April 9 – Susan Sarandon
April 23 – Spike Lee

Final episode of "Faces of America"

2010-03-02T19:58:00.000-08:00

The fourth and final episode of Faces of America airs tomorrow 3 March at 8 p.m. on PBS.

This episode concerns DNA genealogy. I am going to just cut and paste from PBS's website for the synopsis.

Know Thyself – Episode Four takes up the search for the guests’ ancestries where the historical record leaves off and links their distinctive family histories to the broader history of “the family of man.” Combining the documented stories of some of the guests’ last known ancestors with DNA evidence, the series travel backward through time to reveal both distant relatives and surprising shared ancestral connections. Elizabeth Alexander learns that she is a direct descendent of Charlemagne, and that her paternal roots are not only European, but Jewish. Meryl Streep and Mike Nichols discover that they are distant cousins, as do Yo-Yo Ma and Eva Longoria. Interwoven with these stories and others is the journey of the host, Henry Louis Gates, Jr. as he and his father and brother undertake an historic project to have their entire genomes mapped, and thereby to learn everything they possibly can about their own family. This episode offers a compelling and thought-provoking meditation on the importance of ancestry, the meaning of family and the role of both in creating identity.

Sounds interesting.

Eastman blog on Dumpster Diving

2010-02-28T09:05:00.000-08:00

I was looking at Dick Eastman's blog this morning and saw this post about dumpster diving and identity theft. It's a good post with some very good comments.

If you are not shredding your documents you're playing with matches at the gas pump. If you ever have your identity stolen it can cost you tons of money and is a lot of work to fix.

Eastman's Online Genealogy Newsletter on Dumpster Diving for identity theft.

This week at the library

2010-02-27T07:37:00.000-08:00

Monday 1 March: SDGS Writers Group 10 a.m. - noon.
Wednesday 3 March: Wednesday at the Library class: Record keeping/Organizing 10 a.m. - noon.
Thursday 4 March: Library open to the public 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Saturday 6 March: Family Tree Maker Users Group 10 a.m. - noon.

"Who Do You Think You Are"

2010-02-26T17:40:00.000-08:00

This Friday, 5 March 2010, at 8 p.m. NBC will premier their version of the British series Who Do You Think You Are. The series is seven episodes featuring the genealogy and genealogical research of seven well known celebrities. There are five actors, a director and a retired professional football player. The series is produced by Lisa Kudrow.

NBC and Ancestry.com have collaborated in the production and research of the genealogies. Both entities have interesting web pages about the series and brief biographies about the families they researched.

Below are some links to the main pages promoting the series and a link to a 3:41 minute preview done by Lisa Kudrow.

The first link is to the main NBC site about the series, "Who Do You Think You Are"

One of the pages at that site has the Lisa Kudrow video but I will give you the direct link because I liked it. Lisa Kudrow preview

Ancestry.com's link is aimed at getting people like me to plug the series but, once again, I found it interesting. Spread the Word

I plan on watching.

Faces of America with Louis Henry Gates, Jr. on PBS

2010-02-24T05:45:00.000-08:00

Just a reminder that the third of four episode of Faces of America is on tonight at 8:00 p.m. In San Diego it is on KPBS Cox channel 11. The over the air channel is 15.

I mention this because their will be a 2 minute locally produced segment on genealogy. KPBS sent a crew to the SDGS library in February and did an interview with our librarian, Pam Journey.

That segment will air at 7:57 p.m. so don't be late.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Genealogy Program

2010-02-01T14:27:00.000-08:00

This information might be a little bit dated, but as long as the govt. is providing a useful service it might as well be publicized.

In August of 2008 the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, formerly INS, established a Genealogy Program. Genealogists can request records of genealogical interest to be searched for and copied. The service is dedicated to genealogists, historians and other researchers seeking records that generally do not require FOIA expertise. This is a fee for service program. A genealogy index search is $20, copy of a file on microfilm is $20 and a copy of a textual file is $35.

The USCIS Genealogy Program offers two services:

Index Search: Using biographical information provided by the researcher, USCIS searches its historical immigration and naturalization record indices for citations related to a specific immigrant. Search results (record citations) are returned to the researcher, along with instructions on how to request the file(s) from USCIS or the National Archives. Fee: $20.00.

Record Copy Request: Researchers with valid record citations (USCIS file numbers), gained through a USCIS Genealogy Program index search or through independent research, may request copies of historical immigration and naturalization records. Fee: $20.00/$35.00 (depending on the record type).

Records available through the USCIS Genealogy Program:

Naturalization Certificate Files (C-files) from September 27, 1906 to April 1, 1956
Alien Registration Forms from August 1, 1940 to March 31, 1944
Visa files from July 1, 1924 to March 31, 1944
Registry Files from March 2, 1929 to March 31, 1944
Alien Files (A-files) numbered below 8 million (A8000000) and documents therein dated prior to May 1, 1951

When their website was last updated on 30 Oct 2009 they were answering requests from early Oct 2009. With the current events in Haiti there might be a greater delay.

If you are interested in seeing what they have available the main website is at www.uscis.gov. On their Home page the link for Genealogy is at the bottom of the left hand column. If you are not interested in seeing what else USCIS has to offer use this link to go directly to Genealogy.

Wednesday at the Library

2010-01-26T09:43:00.000-08:00

From the mailbag:

‘Wednesday at the Library,’ a new series of ongoing genealogy classes, begin February 3rd ( 10 am -12 pm ) at the San Diego Genealogical Society Library, 7343 Ronson Road , Suite O. All members are invited to attend. There is no charge for any of the classes. Donations to help cover the cost of handouts will be accepted.

The following lists of topics are tentative. The SDGS Newsletter and online calendar will have the up-to-date list of class topics.

1st Wednesday of each month – genealogy research topics

1. Making a plan (Feb 3)
2. Record keeping / Organizing (Mar)
3. Bibliographies / Indexes (Apr)
4. Church records / cemeteries (May)
5. Passenger lists (June)
6. County History books (July)
7. Land / Homestead Act (Aug)
8. Probate records (Sept)
9. Military records (Oct)
10. Newspaper research (Nov)

Other possible topics: Genealogy research libraries, PERSI / Periodicals, timelines, Patriotic Societies

2nd Wednesday of each month – general computer use topics (led by Dave Tooley, assisted by Lance Dohe )

1. Computer file management (Feb 10)
2. Scanner help
3. Moving data to CDs
4. Backup systems
5. Browser basics / e-mail
6. Printer controls
7. Mac users
8. Image keeping
9. Understanding Microsoft basics
10. How to deal with Tech help

3rd Wednesday of each month – location specific genealogy research (how to get started with genealogical research in this area)

1. Germanic peoples (Feb 17)
2. English / Wales
3. Canada
4. America Indian
5. Czech-Slovakia
6. Spain / Mexico / Hispanic
7. Denmark / Sweden / Norway
8. Ireland/Scotland
9. San Diego County
10. Poland / Russia / Hungry

4th Wednesday of each month – tearing down ‘brick walls’ together

Attendees are encouraged to bring one ‘brick wall’ they want help with. After a ‘round robin’ of describing the research problems, a facilitator will lead a discussion, with suggestions for solving specific problems. Time for using the SDGS library materials will be available. People with similar problems can work together. Hopefully, some problems will be on their way to being solved.

Input from members about other desired class topics is welcome and solicited.

To sign up for any class, call the SDGS library, (858) 279-7347, or e-mail sdgs@att.net . Please include your name, telephone number, e-mail, and the class you are interested in attending. Enrollment is limited to 15 people per class.

Members with expertise in any of the subject areas are encouraged to share their knowledge by teaching one of the classes. Please contact me about this if you are interested.

We encourage your participation in these ‘Wednesday at the Library’ classes. Please feel free to sign up for all of the classes that interest you, bring a friend, make use of the San Diego Genealogical Society ’s wonderful library and resources, and have fun!

See you on ‘Wednesday at the Library.’

Sincerely,

Pam Journey
Library Director

William R. Kinney, R.I.P.

2010-01-25T06:20:00.000-08:00

William R. Kinney, a life member since 1991, passed away on 20 Jan 2010. Graveside services will be on Thursday 28 Jan 2010, 2:30 p.m. at Glen Abbey, 3838 Bonita Rd., Bonita, CA.

Special Events News for February 2010

2010-01-24T17:08:00.000-08:00

Coming in March:

Los Angeles Public Library Research Bus Trip

We will be revisiting the Los Angeles Public Library on Saturday, March 20, 2010 (previously scheduled for March 6) If you could not make the December 2009 trip or want to return for more research see the flyer that came with this newsletter or our website to sign up.

San Diego History Mystery Tours Update

January: Since the deadline date for the February newsletter came before the date of our January tour, we will review our January adventure in the next newsletter.

February: We will be visiting a location in the South Central area of San Diego (not to be confused with the infamous South Central L.A.!), followed by lunch at a local American-style restaurant. The event will be from 10:30am until end of lunch (approximately 1pm).To sign up or make any questions/suggestions email Special Events Director Kristeen McCollough at kristeenealogy@cox.net or call 619.820.2552.

Jamboree and Salt Lake City in 2010: Now On-Line

Information about the Southern California Genealogical Society’s Jamboree at the Los Angeles Marriott Burbank Airport Hotel, June 11- 13, can be viewed at www.scgsgenealogy.com. Like past years, the San Diego Genealogical Society will be travelling as a group by train and staying at the hotel. Be sure to mark your calendars and look for the sign-up flyers in the March newsletter and on our website.

Family History Library in Salt Lake City Research Trip: New Dates

The SDGS Research trip to the Family History Library in Salt Lake City, Utah, previously scheduled for Oct. 10-17, has been moved to Oct. 17-24. Please make a note on your calendars.

Check the SDGS website, library and future newsletters for more information.

Photocopying at SDGS

2010-01-18T17:29:00.000-08:00

The SDGS has our photo-copying easel assembled and the software installed on a computer. Now we need a solid list of volunteers for copying duties.

To refresh your memory, Ancestry.com loaned us a photo-copying easel, camera and software after their seminar in November. The SDGS is to scan items that can be used for genealogical research for Ancestry to make available on the net. If we can come up with enough suitable documents we can keep the equipment. If we don't produce, we will have to return the easel and camera.

To familiarize myself with using the equipment I have scanned a book of mortuary records and one of two books of burial permits. These items are part of the library's collection. We will send the images to Ancestry and they will index them and make the images and index part of their online databases. I am not familiar with the partnership agreement but I think Ancestry will also provide us with a copy of the index when it is done. Of course we also have all of the images.

If all of the people who scanned images at the Ancestry.com seminar will send an email to the SDGS blog email I would appreciate it. If you want to volunteer to help with scanning let us know. I will schedule some equipment and software familiarization before we get to work.

If you know of any databases we can create we need to know. The easiest information to scan is card file information. If we can access large card file databases we can get a lot of ground covered. I've only used the device for a few hours and photographed over 2500 documents.

Presentation by Jean Wilcox Hibben

2010-01-10T16:24:00.000-08:00

Our annual seminar and meeting had a very interesting daylong presentation. The speaker was Jean Wilcox Hibben a board-certified genealogist who has recently earned her Ph.D. in Folklore. Her dissertation project on "Family Folklore" can be found on her website at circlemending.org.

The first of the four sessions led us through various stages of her research in "Tracking a Family over Time and Miles". Jean walked us through the steps of working from what we know of our families back to our unknowns. She described the various libraries and websites that might prove usefull in our research. From several lesser known locations she found genealogical gems that are found nowhere else.

Which brings me to a personal comment - I grind my teeth when I hear "newbies" to genealogy bemoaning that they cannot find everything on the net. Jean told about smaller genealogical societies that have only one or two volunteers available who have collected local information for decades. These small repositories don't have the money, time or expertise to put it on the web. Pardon me, "newbies" is a derogatory term. I meant "less experienced".

Her second session was an interesting description of "Deliveries in the Rear! Getting Family History Information through the Back Door." It is amazing the seemingly minor tidbits of family information that is stumbled upon in unrelated research. A search of a pension application can contain facts concerning a different family member. Wills and probates will often mention children and spouses that were previously unknown. Census records might have a surprising relative living in the research targets home. Jean described several of the backdoor items that significantly aided her research.

After lunch we had a discussion on "Communicating in Your Ancestors' Homeland: Understanding Other Cultures can Make or Break Overseas Research". The audience discussed the various definitions of Culture, Intercultural communication and Ethnocentrism. There were numerous examples by the audience of verbal and nonverbal communications and examples of how a person can unconsciously offend someone from a different culture.

The final session of the day drew the most interaction from the attendees. I'm speculating, but I think this was probably Jeans favorite session too. She spent the hour discussing the music and effects of the music on the lives of our ancestors. She concentrated on the music lore from our "Appalachian Ancestors: Their Lives, Legends, & Lyrics". Along with an interesting presentation, Jean and her husband Butch presented a number of songs from the Applachian areas. Many of these songs had morals and warnings incorporated into the lyrics. These songs have been passed down over generations and our audience joined in on most of them.

If you weren't able to attend the meeting, you missed a very enjoyable day! There are some photos of the meeting at SDGS Photo Albums

64th Annual Seminar & Luncheon

2010-01-10T08:13:00.000-08:00

We had our annual meeting and installation of new board and committee members yesterday, Jan 9, 2010. The day long affair was at the Crowne Plaza Hotel & Resort. I'm sure a good time was had by all. I will have another entry about the day long seminar.

President Marna Clemons presented the Societies Presidents Recognition award to Peter Steelquist. Peter is a past president, past newsletter editor, does the society taxes, and handles the genealogical queries. The queries job is one of the big "money makers" for the society. Good choice Marna and thanks Peter for all you do for the society.

The society officers and board members were announced and their new jobs began. I will list all that were on the meeting flier. Not all of the positions are listed here. There is a complete list on the SDGS Website on the About Us page.

Officers:
President	Marna Clemons
1st Vice President	Penny McBride
2nd Vice President	Carol Ulrey
Secretary	Diane McClure-Lott
Treasurer	Dwight Edwards
Directors:
Program Director	Suzette Aprea
Special Events	Kristeen McCollough
Membership	Marie Boozel
Librarian	Pam Journey
Director at Large	Terry Mahaffey
Historian	Mary Card
Publications and Committees
Leaves & Saplings	Marna Clemons
Circulation	Pat Allen
Hospitality	Adeline & Larry Shaw
Queries	Peter Steelquist
Nominating	Kristeen McCollough, Jean Jones, Jackie McMasters, Donna Swink (alternate)
Honors & Recognition	Marna Clemons

Happy New Year

2009-12-31T17:17:00.000-08:00

May everyone have a Happy New Year's eve and may 2010 be good for your genealogy research. I hope everyone makes it past the brick wall or at least knocks a few blocks out of it.

Merry Christmas

2009-12-25T10:17:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas to all.

I just noticed that my last post was in anticipation of a winter storm. Today we are in the middle of a winter storm. The temperature is only about 10 deg. F at noon and the wind is blowing about 30 mph. Fortunately we are having very little snow but what is on the ground is causing ground blizzards.

Tis not fit for man nor beast today.

Once again, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Not about genealogy

2009-12-07T05:43:00.000-08:00

This nothing about genealogy, but I just have to vent.

I mentioned a couple of weeks ago that postings would be sparse as I would be in Nebraska.

Well, here I am trying to get the corn harvested. Except that yesterday it started snowing. Fortunately it only snowed about an inch. Unfortunately, last night it decided to get cold! This morning it is -10 degrees F! That is just a little bit too cold for most Nebraskan let alone this southern California boy.

The snow yesterday was just a precursor of tonights predicted storm. We are supposed to get more snow tonight and tomorrow, Tuesday, with amounts up to 6 inches. That will put a bigger damper on the corn harvest. If we don't get a lot of snow and the temperature stays below freezing we should be able to get back in the field to continue the harvest.

Oh, I also have to be a pall bearer tomorrow. I certainly am not looking forward to that for a number of reasons.

Brrrr!

I just heard on the radio there is a winter storm warning from 6 p.m. today until 6 a.m. WEDNESDAY! The high temps are only supposed 15 deg. The normal low is 17 deg.

More ugh!

The SDGS Newsletter is on the streets

2009-12-03T17:14:00.001-08:00

I got the electronic version of the December 2009 newsletter yesterday. Most of you should have received your hard copy by now. If you are reading this blog, and are a member of SDGS, why not consider getting just the electronic version of the newsletter. Marna sends the pdf to her mailing list when she get the e-newsletter. Getting it by email saves the society postage.

I might be walking on thin ice mentioning the electronic version. If half of our members were reading this and decided to go electronic, the society might lose its ability to get a discounted postage rate. It seems I overheard that once. (Not that I am listening where I am not supposed to.) (There is also another "stretch" in this para. I know half of our members are not reading this blog!)

Getting back to the newsletter. On page one there is an article about the opening of the new library. If you haven't seen it yet run out to 7343 Ronson Road, Suite O and take a look. Your door code there is the same as in El Cajon. The coded door is at the rear of the library. (Makes one wonder why we have to use the "back door".) There is an article and synopsis about the speaker at our Annual meeting on 9 Jan 2010. The meeting is at the Crowne Plaza Hotel and Resort, 2270 Hotel Circle North. The Taylor Street exit from I-8 is the closest exit. There is a meeting reservation form attached to the newsletter if you haven't signed up yet. We are at the Crowne Plaza this year because the Handlery Hotel is under going renovation.

Page two has the board of directors listed and the Presidents Message.

On page three the librarian, Pam Journey, has an article about the library move and names some of the members who helped with that evolution. Randy Seaver did a bang up job of reviewing the November Ancestry.com seminar at the Handlery Hotel.

Page four has an article explaining the changes in the Ralph's Community Contribution Program. In short, you have to re-register your Ralph's card in order for the Society to continue getting the big bucks from our members grocery shopping. The article explains the registration in detail. I have already done it, so it must be easy. There are also articles on Free Online Queries, how to register at Google for your own FREE website space and an article about a free online backup service. If you don't have some kind of backup plan, you're playing with fire. You will probably need a backup eventually.

Page five has a short article I wrote about the Societies different sites on the net. The "From Our Members" column has the advice our members would offer to new genealogists. An article from "How Green Was My Valley" called "The Meaning of Life" and the Library's Holiday Hours.

Page six lists coming events and new members to the society. Randy's meeting review continues. Page seven is the list of new books at the library.

I guess I am going to have to read this one.

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T05:07:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving from the great central United States. I am in southwestern Nebraska at my Dad's farm. My two sisters and a nephew are here too. This is the first Thanksgiving we have all been together for years, probably decades.

There certainly won't be much activity on this blog, that much is for sure.

I hope everyone who reads this has a bountiful repast and good things to be thankful for.

Sparse Posting

2009-11-19T10:11:00.000-08:00

New entries on the blog will be rather sparse for the next month or so. I am going to Nebraska to harvest corn and will only have dial up access. Ugh!

If you come up with anything you'd like to see posted, send me an email with the text in the message and I'll see what I can do.

Chris

A shameless plug

2009-11-17T07:42:00.000-08:00

On Monday Randy Seaver over at Genea-Musings was kind enough to make a blog entry about our new venture into the blogosphere. He has an international following of his excellent blog and I noticed an immediate increase in our visitor numbers.

So I figured I had better take a look at all of the blogs that Randy runs. I read Genea-Musings daily and look at his busy life for the jokes. I must admit that I'm lax in visiting the others.

If you are one of the half dozen or so genealogists who isn't familiar with Randy's blog here's a list of all them. I just cut and pasted his own description of each blog, my comments will be in brackets.

Genea-Musings

Genealogy research tips and techniques, genealogy news items and commentary, genealogy humor, San Diego genealogy society news, family history research and some family history stories from the keyboard of Randy Seaver (of Chula Vista CA), who thinks that Genealogy Research Is really FUN! Copyright (c) Randall J. Seaver, 2006-2009.

[This is a really interesting blog. Last spring and summer he wrote a really good series of 24 articles about using Rootsmagic 4. I'm a Rootsmagic user so these were of particular interest.]

Randy's Busy Life - He's a Chargers and Padres fan.

This is a personal life blog - I will post family pictures as I get them, and make comments on current events and San Diego sports. I will also post "good" jokes and trivia quizzes occasionally. Go Chargers! Go Padres!

[I primarily read this one for his jokes. If he's not showing his political side, he is showing that he is still slightly askew. Good qualities.]

The Geneaholic - Randy's personal genealogy blog,

Genealogy and family research are an obsession for me. Yea, verily, I am a Geneaholic!

[Randy's daily genealogy diary.]

Chula Vista Genealogy Cafe - Official blog for the Chula Vista Genealogical Society.

This blog is sponsored by the Chula Vista Genealogical Society, located in southern San Diego County in California. The purpose of the Genealogy Cafe is to serve our members and other San Diego genealogy researchers - to answer questions, provide research information, provide notices of programs, etc.

[Has everything you will ever need to know about the CVGS.]

Randy Seaver's Ancestry and Family History - His personal website.

About the only thing that reduces his genealogy output is when he is with his grandkids. But he keeps us informed about "grandkid stuff".

Check'em out.

Library Grand Opening

2009-11-15T16:58:00.000-08:00

The San Diego Genealogical Society had its members only Grand Opening today. We had about 120 members and guests come out to check out our new digs. There were library volunteers available to show everyone the layout and introduce them to the layout. A few of the members weren't aware of our computer capabilities or the web access.

Refreshments were available for the event. Just a note: All refreshments were consumed outside! When the library is fully operational patrons will be limited to eating at the tables in the rear of the library. Absolutely no food or drinks in the book stacks or computer work stations. Orders of the librarian.

Marna, the society president, and Pam, the librarian, along with all the volunteers who are doing the grunt work are looking forward to the public Grand Opening on Saturday, 21 Nov 2009, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.

There are a few photos at SDGS Web Albums. (If you look at the pictures, ignore the created date. For some reason it is listed as 4 Nov instead of 15 Nov.)

A good time was had by all

2009-11-14T19:02:00.000-08:00

A great turnout for the Ancestry.com Seminar today at the Handlery Hotel. Over 300 people interested in genealogy attended the event.

Suzanne Russo Adams from Ancestry.com presented four sessions on different areas available. The first session was on the best strategies to do research, with primary attention to the new search. The second session was an overview of Rootsweb and Ancestry's collaboration functions. These included the mailing lists and message boards at Rootsweb and family tree sharing at Ancestry.

A pretty decent box lunch was provided at the noon break.

In the afternoon she explained the Ancesry World Archives Project. This is an effort to attract volunteers to digital images of records that Ancestry.com has created. As the documents are indexed our genealogical research is made considerably easier. The final session was on using a new service of Ancestry called "My Canvas". My Canvas is an online publishing function which helps you construct the books you want to publish. You can create family history books from your Ancestry.com family tree or other photo books. My Canvas has numerous ideas and guides to help you create your book. The finished product can be printed on your computer or you can have them print and bind your work.

Randy Seaver will present his views on the seminar later this evening, he will probably have a more thorough synopsis as he attended each session. If you want to check out his entry hop on over to www.geneamusings.com and take a look.

I spent my time helping scan pictures for the attendees. We had one high speed scanner that copied about 1000 images. There were two stations that took digital images of family photos. Our attendees brought old tintype photos, diplomas, funeral guest books, high school annuals and even family snapshots. There were a few glitches in the scanning but we were able to create over 2500 images.

You can view some pictures at SDGS Picasa Web Albums

All in all it was a very good day.

SDGS Library Grand Opening 15 Nov 2009

2009-11-13T16:16:00.000-08:00

Don't forget the new Library Grand Opening on Nov 14, 2009. This event is for SDGS members only and is from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m. The location is 7343 Ronson Rd, Suite O, San Diego.

The ribbon cutting will be at 1:00 p.m. so don't show up at 1:05 expecting to see the big event.

A big gala with ribbons, balloons and cookies is planned. (Well ok, maybe not a big gala event, but gala anyway.)

If you haven't been to the library in a while come see the new one. We have lots of books and periodicals, over 10,000, microfilm, microfiche, and data on CDROM. There are two computer work stations with net access. Hopefully in the near future we will have an account with Ancestry.com for the library. If you have your own account you can access that at the library.

Looking forward to seeing a lot of people.

Oh dear, Another time waster!

2009-11-12T14:58:00.000-08:00

I just added a small photo album to the Picasa Web Albums site. This first album is very small because I was just testing to see if it was easy enough for me to do.

Since I am mentioning it, I was able to create the account and upload some images. I hope to be able to upload pictures from upcoming SDGS events. Since I don't attend every event I will need our members to help by sending me pictures.

All of this is just to make you, dear reader, waste more time.

Check the album SDGS Library at Picasa Web Albums

Catalog Update

2009-11-12T12:43:00.000-08:00

Just a quick note to let you know that I just uploaded the latest and greatest edition of our library catalog.

I'm sure that every reader of this blog has used or regularly uses the catalog on the SDGS Website. The link to the catalog is in the left hand column. ( Oh heck, here's the direct link to the Catalog Page.)

For our readers who have just found us, the catalog is several, fourteen for you nitpickers, pdf files. Each file primarily covers a section of the United States, based on the Dewey Decimal Classification. There are also files for patriotic associations, U.S. history, Canada/Mexico, genealogy books and the rest of the world. The only reason it is split in this manner was to keep the file sizes fairly manageable. The catalog is a static series of files. We do not have a searcheable database.

Take a look and spend a few minutes looking for the specific source you haven't been able to find. We just might have it!

Free meal at Applebee's

2009-11-09T17:14:00.000-08:00

I realize this entry has nothing to do with the San Diego Genealogical Society or even genealogy, but I'm a veteran and think this is a good deal for all hands.

On Veteran's Day, Wednesday, 11 Nov 2009, Applebee's is giving a free meal to all active duty military and veterans. The proof of prior military duty is pretty light too. One way to prove military duty is to bring a photo of yourself in uniform!

I couldn't find a list of specific locations that are offering the freebie, but since the free menu is limited to one of six entrees I assume most stores are offering it.

Take a look at the Applebee's - Veterans Eat Free webpage.

Update: I just called an Applebee's in San Diego to inquire about the freebie. The manager at the location I called said that all of the San Diego Applebee's are honoring the promotion.

Leaves and Saplings

2009-11-08T08:18:00.000-08:00

If you are doing San Diego research, the San Diego Genealogical Society has scanned every issue of our quarterly publication “Leaves and Saplings.” Leaves and Saplings has been published since 1972 and provides original source material concerning San Diego City and County.

Our website, SDGS Website, has Volume and Record Type indexes available.

The scanned images are on CD at the SDGS Library, 7343 Ronson Rd, Suite O, San Diego. Each annual volume has its index on the CD.

The library also has the paper edition of every issue.

Scanning Services at Ancestry.com Seminar

2009-11-06T15:26:00.000-08:00

Just a short note to let you know that the offer to scan documents and photographs is now extended to all participants of the Ancestry.com Seminar. There are some appointments left so please contact me to schedule an appointment if interested. Please ignore this message if you have already scheduled your scanning appointment.

Document types accepted:

We can scan any document type, but the maximum size supported is 36 inches. Any type of photograph (including tintypes) are accepted. We can not scan slides.

More recent photographs or stable documents can be scanned at a much quicker rate on our high speed scanner. Fragile or historical documents will be photographed. Copyright and re-publishing rights for the material is strictly the responsibility of the customer, but we reserve the right to reject any document for any reason.

Document preparation:

All staples, pins, and fasteners must be removed as well as any tape or sticky material. If photos remain mounted in an album, all photos will scanned as a single image. Bound books do not need to be disassembled, but can be quite slow to scan. If material is stored in sleeves, it needs to be removed prior to the scanning session or it will be scanned with the sleeves in place. Please have all of your documents and pictures sorted by size, largest to smallest, before entering your session. This will enable our scanners to more effectively finish you documents in the time allotted.

Scheduling:

Each person will be booked for a single 15 minute time slot. This includes any document preparation that was not done prior to the scanning session. Generally this allows us to scan about

50 documents per person, more if they are newer.

We hope you take advantage of this opportunity.

See you there!

Suzette Aprea

San Diego Genealogical Society - Programs

http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~casdgs/

SDGS@cox.net

Ancestry.com Seminar SOLD OUT

2009-11-05T13:43:00.000-08:00

If you didn't register to attend the SDGS sponsored Ancestry.com Seminar, you missed a great opportunity. I have just received notice that the event is sold out. The early birds got the worms.

At the library

2009-11-02T09:43:00.000-08:00

If you don't want to hassle with driving to the downtown San Diego Public Library but need to do research in the San Diego City and County directories, consider using the volumes at our library.

We hold the following volumes: 1908-9, 1911-12, 1916, 1924-25, 1931-32, 1934-36, 1939, 1942, 1952-58, 1960-65, 1968, 1971-74, 1976-79. We also have a 1929 San Diego City Telephone Directory that helps fill that blank.

If you are a society member you have 24 hour access to the library. If you are a non-member consider joining the society, or use our library when it is open to the public. In January 2010 we will have the library open to the general public on Thursdays. That gives us a couple of months to get things fully organized.

Daylight Savings Time Ends November 1, 2009

2009-10-30T16:17:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder that Daylight Savings Time ends at 02:00 on Sunday November 1, 2009. If you are still up at that time turn your clock back to 01:00.

If you aren't up at that time of the morning make sure you set your alarm clock before going to bed on Saturday night. Only if you have to be somewhere early Sunday Morning.

An easy mnemonic for setting the clock is: Spring ahead, Fall back.

Don't forget to change the battery in your smoke alarm.

14 November Ancestry.com Seminar

2009-10-28T17:10:00.000-07:00

There are only 16 days until the Ancestry.com Seminar. This is an excellent opportunity to learn the best strategies for doing research at Ancestry.com. The event is a full day of presentations by representatives from the company.

The event is at the Handlery Hotel and Resort at 950 Hotel Circle North, San Diego. Presentations begin at 8:30 a.m. and will end at 3:00 p.m. Registration forms are available at the SDGS Website. Cost is $30 per person for SDGS members, $35 per person for non-members. A box lunch is provided with admission.

The seminar is divided into 4 sessions:

1. The best strategies for getting the most out of Ancestry.com
2. Tapping into the Ancestry.com and Rootsweb community
3. The Ancestry World Archives Project
4. Publishing and printing using "My Canvas"

There is an added benefit for SDGS Members! The Ancestry.com personnel, along with SDGS volunteers will provide document/photograph scanning services for free. There will be two high speed scanners available. All kinds of photographs can be scanned including old tintypes. If the document is relatively new and in good condition a scanner will be used. If the document is in a frame or fragile a digital photo will be taken. It's recommended that you bring a flash drive of your own, but usb flash drives will be available at the event.

Scanning services will be assigned in 15 minute increments and scheduled at the start of the event. The 15 minute period generally allows for the scanning of about 50 images. The images scanned are NOT retained by Ancestry.com.

The Handlery Hotel & Resort charges $3 for all day parking so make sure you have 3 bucks when you arrive.

Get your registration form and check in now.

New Bookshelf

2009-10-27T11:26:00.000-07:00

The new library is having more bookshelves installed today, this is an additional 432 feet of bookshelf. We will now have over 1512 linear feet of bookshelf at our library at 7343 Ronson Rd. Suite O.

This additional bookshelf puts our bookshelf length to over 1/4 mile if laid end to end.

The library has 11,000 books, over 1,000 periodical titles and a large collection of various data cd's. We have 16 four drawer filing cabinets with various items. There are 9 cabinets of cataloged material, 5 cabinets of researchers raw notes and 2 cabinets with Society members pedigree charts. These pedigree charts go back to our original membership in 1946.

A wealth of research material.

Members Open House Event

2009-10-26T14:43:00.000-07:00

Our new library will have a grand opening for Society Members on Sunday 15 November. The event will be officially announced at the Ancestry.com seminar on 14 November.

All members are invited to come to 7343 Ronson Rd, Suite O between 1 and 4 p.m. Check out the new "digs" and improvements. We now have wireless internet connections available if you bring your laptop.

Public Open House

2009-10-23T14:48:00.000-07:00

The San Diego Genealogical Society has moved to our new library at 7343 Ronson Rd, Ste. O, San Diego.

There will be a Public Open House on Saturday, November 21 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Of course all of our members are welcome to come too.

Anybody who is interested in researching their family history and roots are invited to come visit our library. There is a flyer and directions to the library on the SDGS Website: http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~casdgs/

Our New Address

2009-10-23T13:29:00.001-07:00

It has come to our attention that the complete address must be used on our mail. That means the suite letter has to be used with the street address. Unfortunately one of our correspondents had a letter returned and he had to call us.

The proper address for all Society mail is:

San Diego Genealogical Society
7343 Ronson Rd, Suite O
San Diego, CA 92111-1430

FamilyTreeMaker Users Group

2009-10-20T12:54:00.000-07:00

The monthly FamilyTreeMaker User Group will meet at the library, 7343 Ronson Rd, Suite O, on Saturday 7 November from 10 a.m. to Noon.

The link below has directions

http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~casdgs/directions.shtml

Monthly Computer Basics Class

2009-10-20T10:47:00.000-07:00

Don't forget the monthly computer basics class. Even with the societies move to our new library the computer class will be held in November.

The class will meet on Wednesday, November, 11, 2009 from 10:00 to 12:00 at 7343 Ronson Rd, Suite O in San Diego.

If you haven't been to the new library, the link below has directions and links to a map.

http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~casdgs/directions.shtml

Moving and Volunteerism

2009-10-17T14:52:00.000-07:00

Here's a note that was sent to us.

The last couple of weeks or so I observed something interesting!

Maybe you will get some thoughts from it also!

Being involved in Genealogy research and finding many interesting stories of how our forefathers lived, suffered, and fought for existence and in many cases died just to be able to pass on something better to later generations, I belong to some Genealogical societies where I get help and resources to find these long ago interesting enlightening events!

Members of these genealogy organizations go out of their way to help others find things from the past and pass on the knowledge they have gained during years of research to newcomers, free of charge and with enthusiasm!

One of these organizations, the San Diego Genealogical Society I belong to, operates out of a small commercial location and in addition to doing the things described above, they have a library consisting of donated books (history, statistical informational, biographical), periodicals, digital media, etc.

Well as time passes and space and other things dictate the need for it, they are moving to an other location!

I just mentioned books didn't I? Would you believe somewhere between 11 and 15 thousand items?

Like most small organizations, there is a budget, the present economy to consider,and many many restrictions and decisions to make things happen. In this case great leadership and planning certainly was an asset and it showed, but what could be a great help to get things done at least cost?

This is where I observed that" something interesting" I mentioned!

VOLUNTEERS!

Seeing some young, many middle aged and elderly individuals load 41 special carts with books from shelves and from carts back to shelves later after pushing-pulling these carts weighing many hundreds of pounds around to line them up for professional movers, it made me realize what a relative small group of people can accomplish!

Just think, put those electronic gadgets that are being stared at all day aside for a bit and do something like these many ladies (and men) did..., help someone to accomplish something that otherwise would be difficult, and do so as a volunteer!

On weekends everybody seemed to want to help young and old, male and female but on this week-work day I witnessed 15 to 20 Ladies accomplish an impossible job that had to be finished so the 41 carts could be returned that day! They all looked very tired but with satisfied smiles on their face!

Just think, what several million people could accomplish, doing something for somebody else for a few hours?

Jack Van Wingerden

A First Timers Trip to Salt Lake City

2009-10-17T07:33:00.001-07:00

A FIRST TIMERS TRIP TO SALT LAKE by Diane McClure-Lott

Salt Lake City Trip to Family History Library? You gotta go in 2010!

The September 2009 Salt Lake City Family History Library Trip was my FIRST trip to Salt Lake City and the FHLibrary. I had so many unanswered questions. Although Pam and Phyllis answered many questions I still didn’t know what to expect and was apprehensive. It’s like your first time jumping into a pool or first time behind the wheel of a car. It’s that first step.

I was very lucky to meet up with Donna Swink and Nancy Nichols. I called them my big sisters. I met them at the airport and one of the first things I said was “This was my first trip and I didn’t know where to go or what to do.”

“Don’t worry, we’ll show you,” they said. And they did. But not only were Nancy and Donna helpful, so were many other members and Family History Library staff. Really !! Just ask.

The following are some suggestions:

** Get a member to team up with you. I will be your partner/guide if you would like because I am going again. If you have questions call/email me anytime. Diane Lott 619-263-5394 or jefflott01@cox.net.

1.Narrow your search to something specific but bring lots of files/data. ( I was researching my grandmother and surname Bender but needed her half sister’s information and my husband had to FED EX it to me $$$)
2.Allow for “weight” of these files in your luggage.
3.Wear your badge. And wear your badge that Chris will make for you. Convenient for carrying things like copy card and hotel room card.
4.Pack light. Depending on the weather wear layers. On some floors of the library the air conditioning really works, others not so much.
5.The request from researchers is to submit a brief statement. What I sent wasn’t enough for my researcher. Send a small paragraph but send only facts (dates, places, names) no “I believes….”
6.Bring some other files so you have some other research in case you hit a dead end on your main search.
7.If you have a laptop bring it. I brought mine but did not use it. Bring a memory card for saving data. I did and didn’t use it.
8.Arrive on an early flight, early enough to take the tour if you can. It gives you a great orientation to the city and the Salt Lake. When leaving Salt Lake City, book a “noonish” flight.
9.Attend the library orientation the first day and listen carefully.
10.Start your research with the first floor in the books of surnames.
11.Next, use the library computers. Ask at any desk or any library volunteer wandering around wearing a badge. Ask to see all the new things on the computers and in the library.
12.If you bring a backpack or computer case keep it about the size of your computer as the lockers will not hold larger computer backpack on wheels. You WILL WANT to use the lockers as you leave the library for lunch. A small, wheeled computer briefcase is a good idea. Files get heavy and cumbersome. The lockers use dimes.
13.LEAVE THE LIBRARY for lunch at the cafeteria or Nauvoo Café or other Temple Square restaurant.
14.Take time to smell the roses. Actually I didn’t see roses but you will see the most beautiful array of flowers and plants you will ever want to see. You will see a team of gardeners getting the trees ready with Christmas lights. You will see brides and grooms and wedding parties. So stand and watch and take pictures.
15.If it is nice weather take an evening stroll after dinner on the Temple grounds or around the area of the hotel. It is clean and safe. The trolley is free within a certain number of blocks.
16.Speaking of food JB’s restaurant is close but the only “deal” is the buffet breakfast.
17.The day you arrive, the hotel shuttle will take you to the Albertson’s market if you ask. You have a refrigerator and microwave in your room so buy breakfast (cereal, fruit, milk and juice) and have it with hotel coffee in your room.
18.All other meals eat out if you can.
19.When you first go to the library go to the main desk and get a restaurant card (free). Eat in the cafeteria. Good $ deal on meals
20.Second thing to do is get a copy card. Someone will help you. You will need one-dollar bills. It is a bit tricky but you will get the hang of it. As you pay for lunch or dinner get one-dollar bills in change if you can.
21.See the gift shop in the Family History Museum next door to the library. It is expensive and aimed toward the Mormon religion but I bought wooden toys for my great nieces and nephews.
22.See the Mormon Tabernacle Choir Thursday evening and on Sunday morning (9:00 am). Each day is a different program. Get there early and sit upstairs in the middle looking straight at the choir.
23.Ask. Ask anyone in the library or hotel or members.
24.As you enter Temple Square there are tour guide who will try to engage you in conversation for tours. Just smile and walk on.
25.No smoking or alcohol on Temple grounds but off Temple grounds you can get a great meal and a nice glass of wine or mixed drink.

Things I will do next trip:
1.Bring more and different files
2.Buy a small, wheeled computer case
3.Buy/bring a magnifying glass
4.Ask more questions about recent technology
5.Eat evening meals in great Salt Lake City restaurants
6.Pack lighter as airlines charge per suitcase and for overweight
7.Leave Salt Lake for home earlier in the day

For the 2010 Salt Lake City Family History Library Trip, if it helps I will hold a “First Timer’s Meeting” prior to our trip in October. Consider going on the Trip. You gotta go.

Ancestry.com Seminar

2009-10-16T17:15:00.000-07:00

The San Diego Genealogical Society is sponsoring Ancestry.com for an all day seminar on 14 Nov 2009.The seminar is being held at the Handlery Hotel, 950 Hotel Circle North, San Diego.

There are 4 sessions scheduled from 8:30 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. The sessions are:

The best strategies for getting the most out of Ancestry.com
Tapping into the Ancestry.com and Rootsweb community
The Ancestry World Archives Project
Publishing and printing using ‘My Canvas’

The cost is $30 for SDGS members or $35 for non-members. Attendance is limited so register today!

Seminar Registration Form