Seattle: Successful reunions, April 14

Family reunions are a great way to put your research to work and involve many more people.

"Successful Family Reunions: The Important Role of You, the Family Genealogist," with Brad Fanta, is the focus of the Jewish Genealogical Society of Washington State's meeting at 7pm Monday, April 14, at the Mercer Island JCC.

A genealogist can transform a family reunion from a social gathering into a powerful connection of past and present. Whatever your skill level, you can find relatives, create marketing strategies, generate medical histories, coordinate effective photo displays, develop interactive websites, and maximize use of oral histories.

These methodologies and more will be covered in an engaging format that demonstrates the potential for reunion experiences. Examples from a variety of family reunions will be shared to inspire and help any attendee, no matter what size reunion you may be planning.

Fanta - a genealogist for more than 25 years - is JGSWS secretary. His family history research has led to a specialization in 19th century U.S. Southern and Western Jewish experiences. In 2004, he was co-chair for his family's first-ever three-day family reunion; 90 participants from 15 states and Panama were in New Orleans for the event. A marketing manager for Mithun, an architectural and planning firm, he also holds a Masters of Music from the University of Washington and performs throughout Puget Sound.

If you don't live in the Seattle area, don't worry. Fanta will also present this talk at the 28th IAJGS International Conference on Jewish Genealogy, in Chicago.

For more information, click here.