Los Angeles: Planning family reunions

You've been talking about a reunion for years - I know I have - and now you really want to get it organized, but the details need some attention.

Los Angeles-area readers may find this program at the San Fernando Valley Genealogical Society of interest.

Donna Cuillard will present "Home Again - Family Reunions That Live Forever" at 7.30pm on July 18, at the Balboa Mission Town Hall, 16916 San Fernando Mission Blvd., Granada Hills.

According to Cuillard,"There is nothing like getting the whole clan together to rekindle family ties and to form new ones. It is a special and sacred opportunity to catch up on everyone’s life, marvel at the children, share fond memories and explore your family history. A family reunion stirs warm feelings, increases appreciation and love for family members living and also for those who have gone before. It is a time to strengthen family as you gather together to celebrate the generations of your incredible family."

She believes that successful family reunions require planning, organization and communication.

Cuillard has been involved in family history research on her own family for 36 years - her roots include Slovenian, Pennsylvania German, Scotch-Irish, English - and has lectured and taught for 34 years, including NGS and FEEFHS conferences.

A member of the boards of directors of the Brady Family Heritage Association (current) and the Slovenian Genealogy Society; Family History Center librarian and trainer (29 years), etc., she has chaired annual Simi Valley Stake Family History Seminars for 15 years and family reunions in several states.

SFVGS programs are free. Come early if you have brick walls or research problems to talk to society experts.