Jewish Genealogical Society of Illinois June 29 hybrid meeting to feature short “Kvell and Tell” family history talks by several members

The Jewish Genealogical Society of Illinois will hold a “Kvell and Tell” session on Sunday, June 29, 2025, in a hybrid meeting at Temple Beth-El in Northbrook, Illinois. Several JGSI members will take turns sharing family history discoveries and research tips.

Do you like to talk about genealogy? We want to listen! The JGSI “Kvell and Tell” meeting is built around you—our members. If you have uncovered a fascinating family story, used a unique research strategy, or solved a brick wall, then this is your chance to share it! We are looking for speakers to give a 5- to 20-minute presentation on a topic related to their Jewish genealogy journey. No need to be an expert—just bring your enthusiasm and experience!

Interested? Email Debbie at dkroopkin@gmail.com

A registration/RSVP link will be available in the near future.

Those who wish to share their family history discoveries and genealogy tips in the “Kvell and Tell” session as presenters should send an email explaining their presentation topic idea and estimated time of presentation. Each presentation is to be between 5 and 20 minutes to allow more members to share their discoveries, experiences and suggestions. PowerPoint presentations are suggested but not required. Informative handouts for those in attendance or viewing online are also encouraged.

As a hybrid meeting, the talks may be given in person at Temple Beth-El, 3610 Dundee Road, Northbrook, Illinois, OR from home via Zoom.

“Kvell and Tell” presentation topics should relate to Jewish genealogy, or family history research methods, anecdotes or discoveries in general. Possible “Kvell and Tell” topics might include (but are not limited to) the following examples:

• A notable event in your family history and how you discovered it
• The creative way you are sharing your family history with relatives
• A research tool that has been most helpful in learning about your family history
• How taking a DNA test has added new perspectives about your genealogy
• What family history mystery, puzzle or quandary you are still trying to solve
• How to plan for a family reunion or other genealogy themed gathering
• How to publish or otherwise share your family history
• What did you learn about your family from the 1950 U.S. Census or other specific source
• How has a recent family history discovery or tool added previously unknown relatives to your family tree

The most relevant presentation proposals will be accepted as time allows, and preference will be given to shorter talks. Presentations will be recorded and later made available in the members-only section of the JGSI website.

The JGSI meeting facilities at Temple Beth-El will open at 12:30 p.m. CDT for those who want to use genealogy library materials, including our collection of maps; get help with family history websites, ask genealogical questions, or just chat, before the main program begins at 1:45 p.m. CDT. Walk-ins are welcome; however, registration is strongly encouraged.

For more information about JGSI, visit our website. For more information about membership benefits, click here.