Meeting, Tuesday, October 14, 2025

7 p.m., Zoom Only

“Are You Searching for Your Biological Family?

Presented by Kate Penney Howard

 

This lecture explores the intersection of adoption and genetic testing, covering how DNA analysis is changing the landscape of adoption and family relationships. Key topics include the rise of direct-to-consumer genetic testing, its impact on adoptees searching for biological relatives, and the ethical considerations surrounding genetic privacy and unexpected discoveries.

The lecture also discusses how DNA testing is influencing adoption practices, including its use in international adoptions and in identifying genetic health risks. Additionally, it examines the psychological and emotional effects on adoptees, birth parents, and adoptive families when previously unknown genetic connections are revealed.

Kate Penney Howard is a genetic genealogist and speaker specializing in endogamy and breaking down challenging research barriers with DNA. She brings decades of experience in family research and hundreds of successfully solved genetic genealogy cases.

 

NOTE:  LCIGS AND Zion Genealogical Society Members will receive the Zoom link and handout.

Non-members need to register by email at LCIGS1170@gmail.com and pay a fee of $10 to receive the Zoom link and handout.  Payments may be made via PayPal here:  www.PayPal.Me/LakeCountyGenealogy

Thursday, August 14, 2025

ZOOM and In Person, Cook Memorial Library, 7:00 PM
413 N. Milwaukee Ave. Libertyville, IL

“A Genealogist’s Primer on Fraternal Organizations”

Presented by Katherine Andrew

 

So, your ancestor was buried in an I.O.O.F. cemetery, had a masonic symbol on their tombstone, or you were given a bunch of buttons and pins that you do not know the meaning behind? In this class we will talk about some of the most popular fraternal organizations that our ancestors were members of, the records that they left behind, and dispel the rumors and myths behind them.

Katharine Korte Andrew is a professional genealogist, author, and educator. She holds a BA in Germanic Studies and Political Science, and a Master of Library and Information Science. She specializes in German-speaking, Midwestern USA, Quaker, women’s history, and institutional genealogy. She is the owner of KKA Genealogy LLC, Executive Director of the Hinsdale Historical Society in Hinsdale, Illinois, and Managing Editor of the National Genealogy Societies’ NGS Monthly. Based in Chicagoland, but at home anywhere, Katharine helps people from all over the world and from all walks of life connect with their heritage.

Registration is required:  https://cooklib.org/event12608352

 

 

Tuesday, March 11, 2025

7 p.m., ZOOM Only

“Voting Records: Genealogy’s Best Kept Secret”

Presented by Pam Vestal

Looking for a date of birth or death?  The date and court of naturalization? Where your ancestor disappeared to, or where he came from?  His political outlook?  Even what kind of house he lived in?  Voting records may have the answer.  These often-overlooked gems can be packed with genealogical information, and you won’t believe what they can tell us about our ancestors!

Pam Vestal is a full-time genealogist and lecturer in Oregon whose research extends far beyond the Pacific Northwest, with clients all over the U.S. and research that reaches beyond our borders. From family histories to house histories, she tailors her work to the unique needs of each client, but as a professional writer, she specializes in digging into the genealogical facts to tell the ancestors’ stories. An illustrated genealogical biography makes a wonderfully personal way to honor them. Whether lecturing to professionals or newcomers to the field, she welcomes the opportunity to share what she has learned through genealogical coursework, conferences and years of on-site and online research.

Note:  Registration is required.  To register and get Zoom settings,
email LCIGS1170@gmail.com.    Members will also will be emailed a handout.