Upcoming Events

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• CAGGNI September 2026 Newsletter Deadline

  • When
    23 Aug 2026
  • Location
    email to newsletter @ caggni.org

  

  We would love to have you write an article for our newsletter!

  Members are invited and encouraged to submit material to newsletter @ caggni.org. You can write up whatever you think would be of interest to the group in 500-1,000 words (roughly) for the average-sized composition. Or send us smaller items, websites or tips. 

  We would especially welcome:

  • Research findings (how you broke a brick wall, solved a mystery, etc.).
  • Family stories.
  • Preparation for library or archive research trips.
  • Research methodology and techniques.
    
  • How to request documents from the National Archives or other repositories.
    
  • Updates on commercial genealogical data sites.
    
  • Tips from the SIGs: RootsMagic + The Master Genealogist, Family Tree Maker, Reunion, DNA, Historical and Technology. 
  • What’s ahead in computer technology.
  • Genealogy apps and practices for the iPhone, Android, etc.
    
  • Suggestions of blog sites or other genealogy sites of interest.
    
  • Submit a favorite ancestral or cemetery photograph.

   Send all submissions to newsletter @ caggni.org.

  (Note: CAGGNI does not claim copyright for photographs submitted by members; copyright belongs to the photographer.)

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• Board Meeting - 31 Aug 2026

  • When
    31 Aug 2026
  •  
    7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Location
    Zoom

  Board Meeting - 31 Aug 2026

  All members of the Board of Directors are requested to be present for this meeting. 
  

  CAGGNI members are welcome to attend.

  Meeting Style: Virtual (Zoom)

  Link see caggni.org/Zoom-links. Access to this page requires a CAGGNI member login. Please ensure your full name is visible. You may need to use the Rename function (at the upper right of the window where your face appears) if your full name is not shown. Zoomers not presenting their full name as known to CAGGNI will be de-admitted.

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• Family Tree Maker Special Interest Group - 5 Sep 2026

  • When
    05 Sep 2026
  •  
    10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Location
    Zoom

  Family Tree Maker SIG - 5 Sep 2026

  This interest group was originally formed to provide a forum for Family Tree Maker users to share their knowledge and build their expertise with Ancestry's FTM desktop software.

  This group continues to explore old and new features of Family Tree Maker software, now with developer MacKiev.

  SIG Lead: Alvin Holtzman

  Meeting Style: Virtual (Zoom)

  Link see caggni.org/Zoom-links. Access to this page requires a CAGGNI member login. Please ensure your full name is visible. You may need to use the Rename function (at the upper right of the window where your face appears) if your full name is not shown. 

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• The Journey: Mapping Your Ancestors

  • When
    19 Sep 2026
  •  
    10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Location
    Hybrid: Arlington Heights Memorial Library or Zoom

  Register

  The Journey: Mapping Your Ancestors

  by Carla Zimowsk
  

  Come trace your ancestors’ journeys across oceans, rivers, or along city streets using modern mapping tools like Google Earth, ArcGIS, and genealogy software. This talk explores powerful mapping resources—including Chicago-specific collections—and demonstrates how to overlay historical and current maps to visualize ancestral neighborhoods, migrations, and the landscapes that shaped your family’s story.

  Carla Zimowsk, a native Chicagoan, has been researching family history for over 20 years. A graduate of Rutgers University, she holds a certificate in Genealogical Research from Boston University. Carla has 25 years as technology manager for the history department at Princeton and is published in the Chicago Genealogist.

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• CAGGNI October 2026 Newsletter Deadline

  • When
    23 Sep 2026
  • Location
    email to newsletter @ caggni.org

  

  We would love to have you write an article for our newsletter!

  Members are invited and encouraged to submit material to newsletter @ caggni.org. You can write up whatever you think would be of interest to the group in 500-1,000 words (roughly) for the average-sized composition. Or send us smaller items, websites or tips. 

  We would especially welcome:

  • Research findings (how you broke a brick wall, solved a mystery, etc.).
  • Family stories.
  • Preparation for library or archive research trips.
  • Research methodology and techniques.
    
  • How to request documents from the National Archives or other repositories.
    
  • Updates on commercial genealogical data sites.
    
  • Tips from the SIGs: RootsMagic + The Master Genealogist, Family Tree Maker, Reunion, DNA, Historical and Technology. 
  • What’s ahead in computer technology.
  • Genealogy apps and practices for the iPhone, Android, etc.
    
  • Suggestions of blog sites or other genealogy sites of interest.
    
  • Submit a favorite ancestral or cemetery photograph.

   Send all submissions to newsletter @ caggni.org.

  (Note: CAGGNI does not claim copyright for photographs submitted by members; copyright belongs to the photographer.)

  Show details
• Technology Special Interest Group - 8 Oct 2026

  • When
    08 Oct 2026
  •  
    7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
  • Location
    Zoom

  Technology Special Interest Group - 8 Oct 2026

  2026 marks the inaugural year for CAGGNI's new Technology SIG. This will carry on with some of the topics formerly featured in last year's internet SIG, such as Internet-based genealogical services (Ancestry, WikiTree...) and new topics such as applying Artificial Intelligence to genealogical applications.  
  

  Today's Topic: TBA

  More about today's topic will be posted prior to the event.

  SIG Leads: John Stryker and Eric Vavra

  CAGGNI SIGs are for members only. 

  Meeting Style: The Technology SIG is Zoom only. For the Zoom Link see caggni.org/Zoom-links. Access to this page requires a CAGGNI member login. Please ensure your full name is visible. You may need to use the Rename function (at the upper right of the window where your face appears) if your full name is not shown. 

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• CANCELED – Roots Magic / The Master Genealogist SIG - 10 Oct 2026

  • When
    10 Oct 2026
  •  
    10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Location
    Zoom

  CANCELED – Roots Magic / The Master Genealogist Special Interest Group - 10 Oct 2026

  The RM + TMG SIG will resume in 2027.

  This SIGs for members interested in the operation and features of the computer programs for genealogy databases RootsMagic and The Master Genealogist.  

  This CAGGNI Group meets to discuss and share knowledge and experience in using computer programs to research, record, display and share genealogical data.  Also helping each other gain a better understanding of the programs and other useful related computer software.  Users of all levels are welcome to join this group.

  SIG Lead: Larry Olson

  CAGGNI SIGs are for members only. 

  Meeting Style: Virtual (Zoom)
  

  Zoom Attendees: For the Zoom Link see caggni.org/Zoom-links. Access to this page requires a CAGGNI member login. Please ensure your full name is visible. You may need to use the Rename function (at the upper right of the window where your face appears) if your full name is not shown. 

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• Threads of Green: Chicago’s Irish Immigrants

  • When
    17 Oct 2026
  •  
    10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Location
    Hybrid: Arlington Heights Memorial Library or Zoom

  Threads of Green: Chicago’s Irish Immigrants

  by Meghan Moran

  The Irish have emigrated to Chicago since its inception. We will discuss the waves of Irish immigrants, what drew them to Chicago, and tips to trace your Chicago Irish ancestors back to the homeland.

  Meghan Moran is a librarian and genealogist. She has been studying genealogy and family history for nearly 20 years. She is a member of the Association of Professional Genealogists.
  

  
  

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• DNA Special Interest Group - 17 Oct 2026

  • When
    17 Oct 2026
  •  
    12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
  • Location
    Hybrid: Arlington Heights Memorial Library or Zoom

  DNA Special Interest Group - 17 Oct 2026

  Topic: DNA Case Study (Title To Be Announced)

  Presenter: Eric Vavra

  Description To Be Announced

  
  

  About the DNA SIG
  

  This group focuses on learning the methods for analyzing DNA test results. We study topics such as autosomal DNA, mitochondrial DNA, Y-DNA and surname projects, X-DNA and ancestral admixture results. We'll also investigate third-party tools for analyzing your raw data and comparing DNA and gedcom data with test kit results from companies besides the one you tested with.

  DNA can break down genealogical brick walls once thought impenetrable – but only if you know how.

  This SIG endeavors to be interactive and welcomes your questions. Get ready to put your DNA results to work for you!

  SIG Lead: Michelle Wilson

  Future Topics: If you have a topic you would like to present or see presented, please reach out to Michelle at DNA @ caggni.org.

  Today's Venue: TBA

  Meeting Style: This SIG is typically hybrid. For the optimal experience, join us live at the live venue. Remote joiners can join using the link for the DNA SIG on the Zoom Links page. You will need to be logged in. When Zooming, please ensure your full name is visible. You may need to use the Rename function (at the upper right of the window where your face appears) if your full name is not shown. 

  Show details
• CAGGNI November 2026 Newsletter Deadline

  • When
    23 Oct 2026
  • Location
    email to newsletter @ caggni.org

  

  We would love to have you write an article for our newsletter!

  Members are invited and encouraged to submit material to newsletter @ caggni.org. You can write up whatever you think would be of interest to the group in 500-1,000 words (roughly) for the average-sized composition. Or send us smaller items, websites or tips. 

  We would especially welcome:

  • Research findings (how you broke a brick wall, solved a mystery, etc.).
  • Family stories.
  • Preparation for library or archive research trips.
  • Research methodology and techniques.
    
  • How to request documents from the National Archives or other repositories.
    
  • Updates on commercial genealogical data sites.
    
  • Tips from the SIGs: RootsMagic + The Master Genealogist, Family Tree Maker, Reunion, DNA, Historical and Technology. 
  • What’s ahead in computer technology.
  • Genealogy apps and practices for the iPhone, Android, etc.
    
  • Suggestions of blog sites or other genealogy sites of interest.
    
  • Submit a favorite ancestral or cemetery photograph.

   Send all submissions to newsletter @ caggni.org.

  (Note: CAGGNI does not claim copyright for photographs submitted by members; copyright belongs to the photographer.)

  Show details
• Reunion Special Interest Group - 7 Nov 2026

  • When
    07 Nov 2026
  •  
    10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Location
    Zoom

  Reunion Special Interest Group - 7 Nov 2026

  Calling all Apple users!  Reunion is a genealogy software designed specifically for Macintosh and also available as an app for iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad.  Learn the tips and tricks that will have you utilizing this highly regarded program to its fullest.

  Today's Topic: TBA

  More about today's topic will be posted prior to the event.

  SIG Lead: Bruce Christopher

  CAGGNI SIGs are for members only. 

  Meeting Style: The Reunion SIG is Zoom only. For the Zoom Link see caggni.org/Zoom-links. Access to this page requires a CAGGNI member login. Please ensure your full name is visible. You may need to use the Rename function (at the upper right of the window where your face appears) if your full name is not shown. 

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• Historical Special Interest Group - 12 Nov 2026

  • When
    12 Nov 2026
  •  
    7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
  • Location
    Zoom

  Historical Special Interest Group - 12 Nov 2026

  The Historical SIG, new in 2026, explores historical events and their impacts on our genealogy. Our ancestors' lives were shaped by history, influencing where and how they lived and worked. This historical context also affected their religious practices, military service, commercial success, and political affiliations.

  The CAGGNI Historical SIG will explore these important topics.
  

  Today's Topic: TBA

  More about today's topic will be posted prior to the event.

  SIG Lead: Alan Wilson.

  Alan is a CAGGNI past president and SIG leader.

  CAGGNI SIGs are for members only. 

  Meeting Style: The Historical SIG is Zoom only. Remote joiners can join using the link for the Historical SIG on the Zoom Links page. You will need to be logged in. When Zooming, please ensure your full name is visible. You may need to use the Rename function (at the upper right of the window where your face appears) if your full name is not shown. 

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• Introduction to Genograms

  • When
    21 Nov 2026
  •  
    10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Location
    Hybrid: Venue TBA or Zoom

  Introduction to Genograms

  by Jennifer Holik
  

  Curious why you are who you are—and why your family carries certain beliefs, behaviors, and patterns? In this interactive workshop, you’ll learn how to create a basic genogram, a family-tree style tool that uses symbols to reveal inherited themes. Discover how to identify generational patterns and gain deeper insight into your family story and yourself.

  
  

  Jennifer Holik has the rare ability to uncover lost or silenced family history or military stories and see how those experiences shaped family patterns across generations. She bridges rigorous research with deep ancestral and trauma-informed insight, helping people transform inherited pain into understanding, healing, and reclaimed story.

  Show details
• CAGGNI December 2026 Newsletter Deadline

  • When
    23 Nov 2026
  • Location
    email to newsletter @ caggni.org

  

  We would love to have you write an article for our newsletter!

  Members are invited and encouraged to submit material to newsletter @ caggni.org. You can write up whatever you think would be of interest to the group in 500-1,000 words (roughly) for the average-sized composition. Or send us smaller items, websites or tips. 

  We would especially welcome:

  • Research findings (how you broke a brick wall, solved a mystery, etc.).
  • Family stories.
  • Preparation for library or archive research trips.
  • Research methodology and techniques.
    
  • How to request documents from the National Archives or other repositories.
    
  • Updates on commercial genealogical data sites.
    
  • Tips from the SIGs: RootsMagic + The Master Genealogist, Family Tree Maker, Reunion, DNA, Historical and Technology. 
  • What’s ahead in computer technology.
  • Genealogy apps and practices for the iPhone, Android, etc.
    
  • Suggestions of blog sites or other genealogy sites of interest.
    
  • Submit a favorite ancestral or cemetery photograph.

   Send all submissions to newsletter @ caggni.org.

  (Note: CAGGNI does not claim copyright for photographs submitted by members; copyright belongs to the photographer.)

  Show details
• Board Meeting - 30 Nov 2026

  • When
    30 Nov 2026
  •  
    7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Location
    Zoom

  Board Meeting - 30 Nov 2026

  All members of the Board of Directors are requested to be present for this meeting. 
  

  CAGGNI members are welcome to attend.

  Meeting Style: Virtual (Zoom)

  Link see caggni.org/Zoom-links. Access to this page requires a CAGGNI member login. Please ensure your full name is visible. You may need to use the Rename function (at the upper right of the window where your face appears) if your full name is not shown. Zoomers not presenting their full name as known to CAGGNI will be de-admitted.

  Show details
• Family Tree Maker Special Interest Group - 5 Dec 2026

  • When
    05 Dec 2026
  •  
    10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Location
    Zoom

  Family Tree Maker SIG - 5 Dec 2026

  This interest group was originally formed to provide a forum for Family Tree Maker users to share their knowledge and build their expertise with Ancestry's FTM desktop software.

  This group continues to explore old and new features of Family Tree Maker software, now with developer MacKiev.

  SIG Lead: Alvin Holtzman

  Meeting Style: Virtual (Zoom)

  Link see caggni.org/Zoom-links. Access to this page requires a CAGGNI member login. Please ensure your full name is visible. You may need to use the Rename function (at the upper right of the window where your face appears) if your full name is not shown. 

  Show details