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DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260326T190000
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DTSTAMP:20260630T014057
CREATED:20260210T033206Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260307T203832Z
UID:10468-1774551600-1774557000@jgstoronto.ca
SUMMARY:Artificial Intelligence Special Interest Group
DESCRIPTION:Discover the Magic of the AI SIG: Bringing Our History into the Future\nHave you heard the buzz about artificial intelligence (AI) but aren’t sure what it means for your family tree? The AI special interest group (SIG) is a new collaborative hub where we demystify the latest technology together. \nWe bridge the gap between “high-tech” ideas and the practical ways they can help you find your family. We skip the technical jargon and focus on knowledge exchange—sharing how tools like Large Language Models (LLMs) [often called “smart assistants” or “chatbots”] can breathe new life into your research. \nThis AI SIG meeting may include discussions on: \n\nHands-on Demos: See real-world showcases of how AI reads difficult handwriting (paleography) in English\, Yiddish\, Hebrew\, or the multiple other languages of Europe and the Middle East.\nPrivacy & Security: Learn the “golden rules” of AI privacy—how to use these tools safely without compromising your family’s private data or DNA results.\nProblem Solving: Participate in peer-to-peer troubleshooting to move past technical hurdles.\nAdvanced Techniques: Learn about meta-prompting (the art of giving the AI a specialized “role” or “expert persona”) to get much more accurate research results.\nEnhancing Memories: Learn how to clear up blurry family photos or organize decades of notes in seconds.\n\nLead instructor Arthur Sissman acts as your personal “guide on the side” while our AI chatbot serves as the “sage on the stage.” \n\nCelebrate Successes: Show the group what worked! Your breakthroughs provide a blueprint for others to follow.\nTroubleshoot Failures: Hit a wall? Bring your “stuck” prompts and let Arthur and the Chatbot analyze the “why” to find a solution in real-time.\nInteractive Growth: Move from a passive observer to an active participant in the future of genealogy.\n\nAI SIG lecture presentations are open and free to the public; this workshop\, however\, is designed for in-depth\, hands-on interaction among participants and is\, therefore\, reserved for JGS Toronto members only. \nOn Zoom only \nRegister for this Program (members only)\n \n  \nFAQ for this program: \n\nWho may register for this program?  Members only\nIs it being recorded?  Yes\nWho may view the recording?  Members only
URL:https://jgstoronto.ca/event/artificial-intelligence-special-interest-group-2/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Special Interest Groups
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://jgstoronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Copilot_20251102_220744-e1762141447341.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260318T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260318T210000
DTSTAMP:20260630T014057
CREATED:20250911T004539Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260211T230309Z
UID:9622-1773862200-1773867600@jgstoronto.ca
SUMMARY:How Did They Get From There to Here? Bradshaw’s Railway Guide and Other Tools of Discovery
DESCRIPTION:Emily Garber will take a deep dive into reconstructing the overland journeys that emigrants took from their communities to the ports of departure. Join us to see if you can piece together your family’s travels and understand the reasons why they took the passages they did. \nEmily Garber is a researcher\, writer\, and speaker who has been doing family research since 2007. She holds a certificate in Jewish genealogical research from Boston University. \nOn Zoom only \nRegister for this Program\n\n  \nFAQs for this program: \n\nWho may register for this program?  Public\nIs it being recorded?  Yes\nWho may view the recording?  Members only
URL:https://jgstoronto.ca/event/how-did-they-get-from-there-to-here-bradshaws-railway-guide-and-other-tools-of-discovery/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:General Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jgstoronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/E3B978F4-B88D-4222-81CC-751795574415-e1770242543422.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260311T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260311T203000
DTSTAMP:20260630T014057
CREATED:20251016T193748Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260215T125729Z
UID:9881-1773255600-1773261000@jgstoronto.ca
SUMMARY:Unlock the Power of AI in Jewish Genealogy - class 5 of 5
DESCRIPTION:Discover how artificial intelligence can transform the way you research and share your family history. \nJoin the Jewish Genealogical Society of Toronto for an exciting five-session online series designed to help you use AI tools\, such as ChatGPT\, Bing Copilot\, and Perplexity AI\, to take your genealogy research to the next level. \nIn this engaging\, hands-on online course\, you will: \n\nLearn how to organize\, analyze\, and document your family tree using AI\nExplore AI-assisted search techniques for JewishGen\, Ancestry\, MyHeritage\, and other genealogy databases\nSee how AI can help interpret DNA results and uncover hidden family connections\nGain practical tips on writing and sharing your family story with AI support\n\nTaught by Jerry Scherer and Arthur Sissman\, with their AI assistants ChatGPT\, Copilot\, and Perplexity AI \nSchedule: ​​Five 60-minute classes on Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. Eastern time REVISED 7:00 p.m. Eastern time \n\n\n\nDate\nSession\nSubject\n\n\n\n\n19 Nov 2025\n1\nGetting started with AI in Jewish genealogy\n\n\n03 Dec 2025\n2\nSmart organizations of your genealogy\n\n\n14 Jan 2026\n3\nAI in action in the real world\n\n\n11 Feb 2026\n4\nDecoding DNA insights with AI\n\n\n11 Mar 2026\n5\nDocumenting and sharing your family story using AI\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\nJGS Toronto member registration:\nno additional charge\nNon-member registration:\nincluded with your CDN$40 membership fee (through December 2026)\n\n\n\n\nRegister for this Course\n\n(Note: you must be logged in to the website)\n\n\nJoin JGS Toronto as a member: Complete Membership Application\n\nRemit payment for the membership fee\nSend an e-mail message to: membership@JGSToronto.ca\nsubject: AI Course\nbody: Your full name and email address\nShortly thereafter (typically within 36 hours) you’ll receive your login credentials for our website.\n\n(Note: you do not need a website userid or login to register)\n\n\n\nTo review sessions 1 through 4 of the course: \n\nLogin to the members-only page of our website\nSelect Past Presentations and Workshops from the menu on the right side of the page\nReview the session recording and other materials. Links to these materials can be found in the teal highlighted box to the right of the page; on a mobile device\, the teal highlighted box may appear lower on the page
URL:https://jgstoronto.ca/event/unlock-the-power-of-ai-5/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Education
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://jgstoronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Website-Announcement-Unlock-the-Power-of-AI-11-Mar-2026.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260226T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260226T203000
DTSTAMP:20260630T014057
CREATED:20260210T032408Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260222T024129Z
UID:10461-1772132400-1772137800@jgstoronto.ca
SUMMARY:Artificial Intelligence Special Interest Group
DESCRIPTION:Discover the Magic of the AI SIG: Bringing Our History into the Future\nHave you heard the buzz about artificial intelligence (AI) but aren’t sure what it means for your family tree? The AI special interest group (SIG) is a new collaborative hub where we demystify the latest technology together. \nWe bridge the gap between “high-tech” ideas and the practical ways they can help you find your family. We skip the technical jargon and focus on knowledge exchange—sharing how tools like Large Language Models (LLMs) [often called “smart assistants” or “chatbots”] can breathe new life into your research. \nThis AI SIG meeting may include discussions on: \n\nHands-on Demos: See real-world showcases of how AI reads difficult handwriting (paleography) in English\, Yiddish\, Hebrew\, or the multiple other languages of Europe and the Middle East.\nPrivacy & Security: Learn the “golden rules” of AI privacy—how to use these tools safely without compromising your family’s private data or DNA results.\nProblem Solving: Participate in peer-to-peer troubleshooting to move past technical hurdles.\nAdvanced Techniques: Learn about meta-prompting (the art of giving the AI a specialized “role” or “expert persona”) to get much more accurate research results.\nEnhancing Memories: Learn how to clear up blurry family photos or organize decades of notes in seconds.\n\nWhether you are an AI-curious researcher or just getting started with a tablet\, you are welcome at the AI SIG. \nOn Zoom only \nRegister for this Program (members only)\n\n  \nFAQs for this program: \n\nWho may register for this program?  Members only\nIs it being recorded?  Yes\nWho may view the recording?  Members only
URL:https://jgstoronto.ca/event/artificial-intelligence-special-interest-group/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Special Interest Groups
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://jgstoronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Copilot_20251102_220744-e1762141447341.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260225T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260225T203000
DTSTAMP:20260630T014057
CREATED:20260104T011438Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260206T041528Z
UID:10273-1772047800-1772051400@jgstoronto.ca
SUMMARY:Family Tree Maker SIG Workshop: Setting Up Family Tree Maker
DESCRIPTION:Join us for a virtual Family Tree Maker (FTM) workshop intended to help you build and manage your family tree on your home desktop computer while deepening your understanding of your family history. Family Tree Maker is a powerful desktop-based genealogy tool that interfaces seamlessly with both Ancestry and FamilySearch. \nWhether you are just getting started or looking to strengthen your existing skills\, this session will provide practical guidance and useful insights. \nIn addition\, we will highlight the exclusive FTM SIG member discount available to JGS Toronto members\, along with a curated set of recommended links and resources to support you as you continue your Family Tree Maker journey. \nOn Zoom only \nRegister for this Program (members only)\n\n  \nFAQs for this program: \n\nWho may register for this program?  Members only\nIs it being recorded?  Yes\nWho may view the recording?  Members only
URL:https://jgstoronto.ca/event/family-tree-maker-sig-setting-up-family-tree-maker/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Special Interest Groups
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jgstoronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/FTM-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260222T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260222T120000
DTSTAMP:20260630T014057
CREATED:20250930T151223Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260206T035606Z
UID:9750-1771756200-1771761600@jgstoronto.ca
SUMMARY:DNA Special Interest Group
DESCRIPTION:Our DNA Special Interest Group (SIG) offers an interactive forum where participants can learn how to use DNA as a tool for Jewish genealogy. Each session is self-contained and focuses on real case studies\, practical tips\, and guidance from our experts. Whether you’re just getting started with DNA testing or have been working with your matches for years\, you’ll gain valuable insights you can apply directly to your own research. \nYou are welcome to join any or all of the sessions. No prior attendance is required\, and every program is designed so that both new and returning participants can benefit fully. \nOur DNA SIG Leaders:\nGil Bardige (Chicago\, Illinois) has been a genealogist for over 40 years and a genetic genealogist since 2007. He has tested at the four major testing companies and is the co-administrator of three projects at FTDNA\, including Jewish R1B and R-A11711 Subclade Projects. Gil is chair of the Columbus Ohio JGS\, a volunteer at IAJGS Conferences (including the Program Committee)\, and director of the mentoring program. Over the last five years\, he has regularly helped people navigate their DNA matches by speaking at dozens of Jewish genealogical societies. After his presentations\, people often say: “Thank you\, Gil\, I am no longer confused!”\nArthur Sissman (Naples\, Florida) has been engaged in family history genealogy since 1999 and genetic genealogy (DNA) since 2015. Arthur has built over 60 family history trees for his various family surname lines. In addition\, he has tested his autosomal DNA at all the major DNA testing companies\, and his Y-DNA and MtDNA at FamilyTreeDNA. Using his “3-Legged Stool Protocol” — focusing on surname\, place\, and DNA — Arthur has found previously unknown relatives and built a tree out to 1500 from Galicia/Romania\, with over 50+ DNA matches across all branches. For information on Arthur’s Jewish Genealogy SIG monthly meetings and scheduled workshops\, email genresearch13@yahoo.com. \nSubmit Your DNA Questions\nHere’s your chance to send in your DNA-related inquiries to our experts\, who are here to aid your research. When you submit your questions\, there might be a request for consent to potentially share your screen\, DNA match names\, and family tree members. This sharing enables others to learn from the techniques used by our experts.\nPlease be sure to include comprehensive details with your question\, highlighting your previous research. You’ll find the questionnaire form available on the registration page — please send your submissions in advance. This deadline ensures that our maven can contact you for any extra information\, if required. \nOn Zoom only \nRegister for this Program\n\n  \nFAQs for this program: \n\nWho may register for this program?  Public\nIs it being recorded?  Yes\nWho may view the recording?  Members only
URL:https://jgstoronto.ca/event/dna-special-interest-group-4/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Special Interest Groups
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jgstoronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/DNA-Double-Helix-3.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260215T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260215T120000
DTSTAMP:20260630T014057
CREATED:20250911T003720Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260209T203245Z
UID:9619-1771151400-1771156800@jgstoronto.ca
SUMMARY:Kingston-Upon-Hull: A Forgotten Way-Station on the Road to Canada and the USA
DESCRIPTION:speaker: Dr. Marne Platt \nFind out more about this important\, often untold story of the passage of families from Eastern Europe as they headed to Kingston-Upon-Hull on their way to North America. Learn more about this transition point in the story of many Jewish emigrants! \nMarne Platt is an American genealogist and researcher\, living in Switzerland. She is well-versed in the trials and tribulations of the immigration process that occurred as our ancestors landed in Hull\, England. \nOn Zoom only \nRegister for this Program\n\n  \nFAQs for this program: \n\nWho may register for this program?  Public\nIs it being recorded?  Yes\nWho may view the recording?  Members only
URL:https://jgstoronto.ca/event/kingston-upon-hull-a-forgotten-waystation-on-the-road-to-north-america/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:General Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jgstoronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Marne-Platt.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260211T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260211T190000
DTSTAMP:20260630T014057
CREATED:20251016T192128Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260215T125852Z
UID:9874-1770836400-1770836400@jgstoronto.ca
SUMMARY:Unlock the Power of AI in Jewish Genealogy - class 4 of 5
DESCRIPTION:Discover how artificial intelligence can transform the way you research and share your family history. \nJoin the Jewish Genealogical Society of Toronto for an exciting five-session online series designed to help you use AI tools\, such as ChatGPT\, Bing Copilot\, and Perplexity AI\, to take your genealogy research to the next level. \nIn this engaging\, hands-on online course\, you will: \n\nLearn how to organize\, analyze\, and document your family tree using AI\nExplore AI-assisted search techniques for JewishGen\, Ancestry\, MyHeritage\, and other genealogy databases\nSee how AI can help interpret DNA results and uncover hidden family connections\nGain practical tips on writing and sharing your family story with AI support\n\nTaught by Jerry Scherer and Arthur Sissman\, with their AI assistants ChatGPT\, Copilot\, and Perplexity AI \nSchedule: ​​Five 60-minute classes on Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. Eastern time REVISED 7:00 p.m. ET \n\n\n\nDate\nSession\nSubject\n\n\n\n\n19 Nov 2025\n1\nGetting started with AI in Jewish genealogy\n\n\n03 Dec 2025\n2\nSmart organizations of your genealogy\n\n\n14 Jan 2026\n3\nAI in action in the real world\n\n\n11 Feb 2026\n4\nDecoding DNA insights with AI\n\n\n11 Mar 2026\n5\nDocumenting and sharing your family story using AI\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\nJGS Toronto member registration:\nno additional charge\nNon-member registration:\nincluded with your CDN$40 membership fee (through December 2026)\n\n\n\n\nRegister for this Course\n\n(Note: you must be logged in to the website)\n\n\nJoin JGS Toronto as a member: Complete Membership Application\n\nRemit payment for the membership fee\nSend an e-mail message to: membership@JGSToronto.ca\nsubject: AI Course\nbody: Your full name and email address\nShortly thereafter (typically within 36 hours) you’ll receive your login credentials for our website.\n\n(Note: you do not need a website userid or login to register)\n\n\n\nTo review sessions 1 through 3 of the course: \n\nLogin to the members-only page of our website\nSelect Past Presentations and Workshops from the menu on the right side of the page\nReview the session recording and other materials. Links to these materials can be found in the teal highlighted box to the right of the page; on a mobile device\, the teal highlighted box may appear lower on the page
URL:https://jgstoronto.ca/event/unlock-the-power-of-ai-4/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Education
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://jgstoronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Website-Announcement-Unlock-the-Power-of-AI-11-Mar-2026.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260129T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260129T203000
DTSTAMP:20260630T014057
CREATED:20260129T175559Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260129T181707Z
UID:10340-1769713200-1769718600@jgstoronto.ca
SUMMARY:Seeing the Past More Clearly with AI
DESCRIPTION:This practical\, hands-on clinic is suitable for beginners and experienced researchers alike. No prior AI experience is required. We will focus on how to write clear\, effective prompts to help AI analyze genealogical materials. \nDuring the session\, we will demonstrate participant-developed prompts for: \n\nTranslating foreign-language records\nAnalyzing headstones and photographs\nExtracting information from obituaries and documents\n\nOur goal is to build a shared library of prompts that members can reuse to overcome research brick walls. \nOn Zoom only \nRegister for this Program\n\n  \nFAQs for this program: \n\nWho may register for this program?  Members only\nIs it being recorded?  TBD\nWho may view the recording?  Members only
URL:https://jgstoronto.ca/event/seeing-the-past-more-clearly-with-ai/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Education
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://jgstoronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Copilot_20251102_220744-e1762141447341.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260121T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260121T210000
DTSTAMP:20260630T014057
CREATED:20250911T003159Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251219T004404Z
UID:9616-1769023800-1769029200@jgstoronto.ca
SUMMARY:Researching the Jewish Story in Soviet-Occupied Poland\, 1939-41 - Latest Available Resources
DESCRIPTION:speaker: Steven Turner\, genealogist and president of Gesher Galicia\, a town leader for JRI-Poland\, and a member of the board of the Jewish Genealogical Society of Long Island. \nIn 1939\, at the beginning of WWII\, Germany and the Soviet Union divided Poland into Occupation Zones. Many Jews fled into the  Soviet zone trying to stay a step ahead of the Germans. Life though was not easy. Many Jews were arrested and deported to labor camps in the East. Many hastily got married for various reasons and had children. Gesher Galicia has two projects\, one of vital records and one of criminal files from the NKVD\, the Soviet secret police\, relating to this period. These are some of the most amazing genealogical records one will ever see with pictures\, correspondence to overseas relatives\, and much genealogical data. Dr. Turner will demonstrate these records and show the researcher how to access and work with them to find precious information on their ancestors. \nOn Zoom only \nFAQs for this program: \n\nWho may register for this program?  Public\nIs it being recorded?  Yes\nWho may view the recording?  Members only
URL:https://jgstoronto.ca/event/researching-the-jewish-story-in-soviet-occupied-poland/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:General Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jgstoronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Steven-Turner-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260114T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260114T203000
DTSTAMP:20260630T014057
CREATED:20251016T191955Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260110T043324Z
UID:9872-1768419000-1768422600@jgstoronto.ca
SUMMARY:Unlock the Power of AI in Jewish Genealogy - class 3 of 5
DESCRIPTION:Discover how artificial intelligence can transform the way you research and share your family history. \nJoin the Jewish Genealogical Society of Toronto for an exciting five-session online series designed to help you use AI tools\, such as ChatGPT\, Bing Copilot\, and Perplexity AI\, to take your genealogy research to the next level. \nIn this engaging\, hands-on online course\, you will: \n\nLearn how to organize\, analyze\, and document your family tree using AI\nExplore AI-assisted search techniques for JewishGen\, Ancestry\, MyHeritage\, and other genealogy databases\nSee how AI can help interpret DNA results and uncover hidden family connections\nGain practical tips on writing and sharing your family story with AI support\n\nTaught by Jerry Scherer and Arthur Sissman\, with their AI assistants ChatGPT\, Copilot\, and Perplexity AI \nSchedule: ​​Five 60-minute classes on Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. Eastern time \n\n\n\nDate\nSession\nSubject\n\n\n\n\n19 Nov 2025\n1\nGetting started with AI in Jewish genealogy\n\n\n03 Dec 2025\n2\nSmart organizations of your genealogy\n\n\n14 Jan 2026\n3\nExploring genealogy databases and tools with AI\n\n\n11 Feb 2026\n4\nDecoding DNA insights with AI\n\n\n11 Mar 2026\n5\nDocumenting and sharing your family story using AI\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\nJGS Toronto member registration:\nno additional charge\nNon-member registration:\nincluded with your CDN$40 membership fee (through December 2026)\n\n\n\n\nRegister for this Course\n\n(Note: you must be logged in to the website)\n\n\nJoin JGS Toronto as a member: Complete Membership Application\n\nRemit payment for the membership fee\nSend an e-mail message to: membership@JGSToronto.ca\nsubject: AI Course\nbody: Your full name and email address\nShortly thereafter (typically within 36 hours) you’ll receive your login credentials for our website.\n\n(Note: you do not need a website userid or login to register)\n\n\n\nTo review sessions 1 and 2 of the course: \n\nLogin to the members-only page of our website\nSelect Past Presentations and Workshops from the menu on the right side of the page\nReview the session recording and other materials. Links to these materials can be found in the teal highlighted box to the right of the page; on a mobile device\, the teal highlighted box may appear lower on the page
URL:https://jgstoronto.ca/event/unlock-the-power-of-ai-3/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Education
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://jgstoronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Website-Announcement-Unlock-the-Power-of-AI-19-Nov-2025.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260104T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260104T120000
DTSTAMP:20260630T014057
CREATED:20250930T151126Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251217T035110Z
UID:9748-1767522600-1767528000@jgstoronto.ca
SUMMARY:DNA Special Interest Group
DESCRIPTION:Our DNA Special Interest Group (SIG) offers an interactive forum where participants can learn how to use DNA as a tool for Jewish genealogy. Each session is self-contained and focuses on real case studies\, practical tips\, and guidance from our experts. Whether you’re just getting started with DNA testing or have been working with your matches for years\, you’ll gain valuable insights you can apply directly to your own research. \nYou are welcome to join any or all of the sessions. No prior attendance is required\, and every program is designed so that both new and returning participants can benefit fully. \nOur DNA SIG Leaders:\nGil Bardige (Chicago\, Illinois) has been a genealogist for over 40 years and a genetic genealogist since 2007. He has tested at the four major testing companies and is the co-administrator of three projects at FTDNA\, including Jewish R1B and R-A11711 Subclade Projects. Gil is chair of the Columbus Ohio JGS\, a volunteer at IAJGS Conferences (including the Program Committee)\, and director of the mentoring program. Over the last five years\, he has regularly helped people navigate their DNA matches by speaking at dozens of Jewish genealogical societies. After his presentations\, people often say: “Thank you\, Gil\, I am no longer confused!”\nArthur Sissman (Naples\, Florida) has been engaged in family history genealogy since 1999 and genetic genealogy (DNA) since 2015. Arthur has built over 60 family history trees for his various family surname lines. In addition\, he has tested his autosomal DNA at all the major DNA testing companies\, and his Y-DNA and MtDNA at FamilyTreeDNA. Using his “3-Legged Stool Protocol” — focusing on surname\, place\, and DNA — Arthur has found previously unknown relatives and built a tree out to 1500 from Galicia/Romania\, with over 50+ DNA matches across all branches. For information on Arthur’s Jewish Genealogy SIG monthly meetings and scheduled workshops\, email genresearch13@yahoo.com. \nSubmit Your DNA Questions\nHere’s your chance to send in your DNA-related inquiries to our experts\, who are here to aid your research. When you submit your questions\, there might be a request for consent to potentially share your screen\, DNA match names\, and family tree members. This sharing enables others to learn from the techniques used by our experts.\nPlease be sure to include comprehensive details with your question\, highlighting your previous research. You’ll find the questionnaire form available on the registration page — please send your submissions in advance. This deadline ensures that our maven can contact you for any extra information\, if required. \nOn Zoom only \nRegister for this Program\n\n \nFAQs for this program: \n\nWho may register for this program?  Public\nIs it being recorded?  Yes\nWho may view the recording?  Members only
URL:https://jgstoronto.ca/event/dna-special-interest-group-3/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Special Interest Groups
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jgstoronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/DNA-Double-Helix-3.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251221T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251221T120000
DTSTAMP:20260630T014057
CREATED:20250911T002311Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251124T193015Z
UID:9612-1766313000-1766318400@jgstoronto.ca
SUMMARY:The History of the South African Jews - Part 2
DESCRIPTION:From The Pale to Pretoria … Carrying a Small Suitcase Filled with Courage\, Faith and Hope – Part 2 \nIn partnership with Classi Lectures \nIn this continuation of Ralph Cilevitz‘s presentation of 01 June 2025\, he tells the story of Jewish immigrants who journeyed from the cities and shtetls of the Pale of Settlement to the cities and dorpies at the southern tip of Africa. Most arrived young\, alone\, and with little more than their determination and quiet strength. Ralph explores how thousands of Jewish families built new lives and preserved their faith and hope while adapting to unfamiliar places and languages. He offers a vivid look at courage\, migration\, resilience\, and community. Whether you’re interested in genealogy\, Jewish history\, or human endurance\, this presentation brings the past to life in a way that is deeply personal and richly human. \nRalph Cilevitz was born in South Africa and studied electronic and mechanical engineering before emigrating to Canada in 1979. Based in Toronto\, he is a board member of the Jewish Genealogical Society of Toronto. With over 50 years of genealogical research\, Ralph combines historical insight with a passion for storytelling. When he’s not digging through archives\, you’ll find him competing on the track in multi-event athletics\, playing field hockey or pickleball\, or strumming the guitar. \nOn Zoom only \nRegister for this Program\n\n  \nFAQs for this program: \n\nWho may register for this program?  Public\nIs it being recorded?  Yes\nIs the recording available to members?  Yes\nIs the recording available to non-members?  Yes\, for 2 weeks
URL:https://jgstoronto.ca/event/the-history-of-the-south-african-jews-part-2/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:General Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jgstoronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Ralph-Cilevitz-e1762971352745.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251203T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251203T203000
DTSTAMP:20260630T014057
CREATED:20251016T191821Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251120T174144Z
UID:9870-1764790200-1764793800@jgstoronto.ca
SUMMARY:Unlock the Power of AI in Jewish Genealogy - class 2 of 5
DESCRIPTION:Discover how artificial intelligence can transform the way you research and share your family history. \nJoin the Jewish Genealogical Society of Toronto for an exciting five-session online series designed to help you use AI tools\, such as ChatGPT\, Bing Copilot\, and Perplexity AI\, to take your genealogy research to the next level. \nIn this engaging\, hands-on online course\, you will: \n\nLearn how to organize\, analyze\, and document your family tree using AI\nExplore AI-assisted search techniques for JewishGen\, Ancestry\, MyHeritage\, and other genealogy databases\nSee how AI can help interpret DNA results and uncover hidden family connections\nGain practical tips on writing and sharing your family story with AI support\n\nTaught by Jerry Scherer and Arthur Sissman\, with their AI assistants ChatGPT\, Copilot\, and Perplexity AI \nSchedule: ​​Five 60-minute classes on Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. Eastern time \n\n\n\nDate\nSession\nSubject\n\n\n\n\n19 Nov 2025\n1\nGetting started with AI in Jewish genealogy\n\n\n03 Dec 2025\n2\nOrganize your genealogy files with AI\n\n\n14 Jan 2026\n3\nExploring genealogy databases and tools with AI\n\n\n11 Feb 2026\n4\nDecoding DNA insights with AI\n\n\n11 Mar 2026\n5\nDocumenting and sharing your family story using AI\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\nJGS Toronto member registration:\nno additional charge\nNon-member registration:\nincluded with your CDN$40 membership fee (through December 2026)\n\n\n\n\nRegister for this Course\n\n(Note: you must be logged in to the website)\n\n\nJoin JGS Toronto as a member: Complete Membership Application\n\nRemit payment for the membership fee\nSend an e-mail message to: membership@JGSToronto.ca\nsubject: AI Course\nbody: Your full name and email address\nShortly thereafter (typically within 36 hours) you’ll receive your login credentials for our website.\n\n(Note: you do not need a website userid or login to register)\n\n\n\nTo review session 1 of the course: \n\nLogin to the members-only page of our website\nSelect Past Presentations and Workshops from the menu on the right side of the page\nReview the session recording and other materials. Links to these materials can be found in the teal highlighted box to the right of the page; on a mobile device\, the teal highlighted box may appear lower on the page
URL:https://jgstoronto.ca/event/unlock-the-power-of-ai-2/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Education
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://jgstoronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Website-Announcement-Unlock-the-Power-of-AI-19-Nov-2025.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251124T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251124T210000
DTSTAMP:20260630T014057
CREATED:20251001T175913Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251029T215315Z
UID:9762-1764012600-1764018000@jgstoronto.ca
SUMMARY:Family Tree Maker SIG: Discover FTM 2024
DESCRIPTION:Mark Olsen\, Family Tree Maker ambassador\, will introduce the brand-new Family Tree Maker 2024 Edition\, highlighting its exciting new features and enhancements. Whether you are a long-time FTM user or just getting started\, this is a great opportunity to see what’s new and ask questions directly from the expert. \nOn Zoom only \nRegister for this Program\n\nFAQs for this program: \n\nWho may register for this program?  Public\nIs it being recorded?  Yes\nIs the recording available to members?  Yes\nIs the recording available to non-members?  No
URL:https://jgstoronto.ca/event/family-tree-maker-special-interest-group/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Special Interest Groups
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jgstoronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/FTM-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251123T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251123T120000
DTSTAMP:20260630T014057
CREATED:20250911T000848Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251112T181754Z
UID:9609-1763893800-1763899200@jgstoronto.ca
SUMMARY:Finding the Facts of My Family’s Stories
DESCRIPTION:speaker: John Lorinc\, a Toronto journalist and editor \nFrom pre-war Budapest to post-war Toronto\, No Jews Live Here\, John Lorinc’s 2024 book\, unspools four generations of a Hungarian Jewish family’s journey through the Holocaust\, the 1956 Revolution\, and finally exodus from a country that cannot rid itself of its antisemitic demons. John Lorinc will focus on his eccentric and defiant grandmother\, a consummate survivor with a love of flashy jewelry and a vicious tongue. He will also trace the stories of his grandfathers and his father\, all of whom fell victim\, in diverse ways\, to the Nazis’ genocidal campaign to cleanse Europe of Jews. \nIn person at Shaarei Shomayim Congregation\, 470 Glencairn Avenue\, North York and on Zoom. \nRegister for this Program\n\n  \nFAQs for this program: \n\nWho may register for this program?  Public\nIs it being recorded?  Yes\nIs the recording available to members?  Yes\nIs the recording available to non-members?  Yes\, for 2 weeks
URL:https://jgstoronto.ca/event/finding-the-facts-of-my-familys-stories/
LOCATION:Shaarei Shomayim Congregation\, 470 Glencairn Ave.\, Toronto\, Ontario\, M5N 1V8\, Canada
CATEGORIES:General Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jgstoronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/No-Jews-Live-Here-cover-small-e1762971463894.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251119T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251119T203000
DTSTAMP:20260630T014057
CREATED:20251016T191330Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251119T042605Z
UID:9866-1763580600-1763584200@jgstoronto.ca
SUMMARY:Unlock the Power of AI in Jewish Genealogy - class 1 of 5
DESCRIPTION:Discover how artificial intelligence can transform the way you research and share your family history. \nJoin the Jewish Genealogical Society of Toronto for an exciting five-session online series designed to help you use AI tools\, such as ChatGPT\, Bing Copilot\, and Perplexity AI\, to take your genealogy research to the next level. \nIn this engaging\, hands-on course\, you will: \n\nLearn how to organize\, analyze\, and document your family tree using AI\nExplore AI-assisted search techniques for JewishGen\, Ancestry\, MyHeritage\, and other genealogy databases\nSee how AI can help interpret DNA results and uncover hidden family connections\nGain practical tips on writing and sharing your family story with AI support\n\nTaught by Jerry Scherer and Arthur Sissman\, with their AI assistants ChatGPT\, Copilot\, and Perplexity AI \nSchedule: ​​Five 60-minute classes on Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. Eastern time \n\n\n\nDate\nSession\nSubject\n\n\n\n\n19 Nov 2025\n1\nGetting started with AI in Jewish genealogy\n\n\n03 Dec 2025\n2\nOrganize your genealogy files with AI\n\n\n14 Jan 2026\n3\nExploring genealogy databases and tools with AI\n\n\n11 Feb 2026\n4\nDecoding DNA insights with AI\n\n\n11 Mar 2026\n5\nDocumenting and sharing your family story using AI\n\n\n\n  \n\nRegistration: \n\nCDN$40 (less than US$30)\nIncludes JGS Toronto membership through December 2026\nIncludes a one-month complimentary access to Ancestry and MyHeritage databases\nRecorded sessions and course handouts available on the members-only website\nJGS Toronto members can register for the course at no additional cost\n\n\n\nMembership Benefits: \n\nAccess to all JGS Toronto programs and special interest group\nQuarterly Shem Tov newsletter\, weekly e-mails\, and member discounts\nA vibrant community of Jewish genealogists and access to expert-led learning\n\n  \n\n\n\n\nJGS Toronto member registration:\nNon-member registration:\n\n\n\n\nRegister for this Course\n\n(Note: you must be logged in to the website)\n\n\nJoin JGS Toronto as a member: Complete Membership Application\n\nRemit your payment\nSend an e-mail message to: membership@JGSToronto.ca\nsubject: AI Course\nbody: Your full name and email address\n(You do not need a website userid or login to register.)
URL:https://jgstoronto.ca/event/unlock-the-power-of-ai-1/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Education
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://jgstoronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Website-Announcement-Unlock-the-Power-of-AI-19-Nov-2025.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251109T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251109T120000
DTSTAMP:20260630T014057
CREATED:20250930T150332Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251003T171604Z
UID:9742-1762684200-1762689600@jgstoronto.ca
SUMMARY:DNA Special Interest Group
DESCRIPTION:Our DNA Special Interest Group (SIG) offers an interactive forum where participants can learn how to use DNA as a tool for Jewish genealogy. Each session is self-contained and focuses on real case studies\, practical tips\, and guidance from our experts. Whether you’re just getting started with DNA testing or have been working with your matches for years\, you’ll gain valuable insights you can apply directly to your own research. \nYou are welcome to join any or all of the sessions. No prior attendance is required\, and every program is designed so that both new and returning participants can benefit fully. \nOur DNA SIG Leaders:\nGil Bardige (Chicago\, Illinois) has been a genealogist for over 40 years and a genetic genealogist since 2007. He has tested at the four major testing companies and is the co-administrator of three projects at FTDNA\, including Jewish R1B and R-A11711 Subclade Projects. Gil is chair of the Columbus Ohio JGS\, a volunteer at IAJGS Conferences (including the Program Committee)\, and director of the mentoring program. Over the last five years\, he has regularly helped people navigate their DNA matches by speaking at dozens of Jewish genealogical societies. After his presentations\, people often say: “Thank you\, Gil\, I am no longer confused!”\nArthur Sissman (Naples\, Florida) has been engaged in family history genealogy since 1999 and genetic genealogy (DNA) since 2015. Arthur has built over 60 family history trees for his various family surname lines. In addition\, he has tested his autosomal DNA at all the major DNA testing companies\, and his Y-DNA and MtDNA at FamilyTreeDNA. Using his “3-Legged Stool Protocol” — focusing on surname\, place\, and DNA — Arthur has found previously unknown relatives and built a tree out to 1500 from Galicia/Romania\, with over 50+ DNA matches across all branches. For information on Arthur’s Jewish Genealogy SIG monthly meetings and scheduled workshops\, email genresearch13@yahoo.com. \nSubmit Your DNA Questions\nHere’s your chance to send in your DNA-related inquiries to our experts\, who are here to aid your research. When you submit your questions\, there might be a request for consent to potentially share your screen\, DNA match names\, and family tree members. This sharing enables others to learn from the techniques used by our experts.\nPlease be sure to include comprehensive details with your question\, highlighting your previous research. You’ll find the questionnaire form available on the registration page — please send your submissions by Sunday\, 02 November 2025. This deadline ensures that our maven can contact you for any extra information\, if required. \nOn Zoom only \nRegister for this Program\n\n \nFAQs for this program: \n\nWho may register for this program?  Public\nIs it being recorded?  Yes\nIs the recording available to members?  Yes\nIs the recording available to non-members?  No
URL:https://jgstoronto.ca/event/dna-sig-3/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Special Interest Groups
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jgstoronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/DNA-Double-Helix-3.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251026T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251026T120000
DTSTAMP:20260630T014057
CREATED:20250829T192411Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250919T214329Z
UID:9469-1761474600-1761480000@jgstoronto.ca
SUMMARY:From Roots to Resolutions: A Journey into Investigative Genetic Genealogy
DESCRIPTION:Please join us as JGS Toronto member Lauren Robilliard takes us on her journey into investigative genetic genealogy. In this talk\, Lauren shares the unexpected path that started from a cemetery assignment while at university. What began as a personal quest to uncover biological roots evolved into a career solving real-world mysteries with Toronto Police Service’s cold-case unit. She chronicles the twists and turns of a personal quest that turned into a professional calling\, offering insights into the power of genetic genealogy for both personal discovery and public good. Attendees will also learn what they can do to help solve a cold case. \nIn person at Shaarei Shomayim Congregation\, 470 Glencairn Avenue\, North York and on Zoom. \nRegister for this Program\n\n \nFAQs for this program: \n\nWho may register for this program?  Public\nIs it being recorded?  Yes\nIs the recording available to members?  Yes\nIs the recording available to non-members?  Yes\, for 2 weeks
URL:https://jgstoronto.ca/event/from-roots-to-resolutions-a-journey-into-investigative-genetic-genealogy/
LOCATION:Shaarei Shomayim Congregation\, 470 Glencairn Ave.\, Toronto\, Ontario\, M5N 1V8\, Canada
CATEGORIES:General Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jgstoronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Screen-Shot-2025-08-29-at-12.22.27-PM-copy.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251019T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251019T120000
DTSTAMP:20260630T014057
CREATED:20251001T181129Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251010T022128Z
UID:9765-1760869800-1760875200@jgstoronto.ca
SUMMARY:MyHeritage SIG: What's New with Daniel Horowitz
DESCRIPTION:Daniel Horowitz\, genealogy expert at MyHeritage\, joins us to discuss what’s new at MyHeritage. \nDaniel will showcase the latest MyHeritage features and enhancements\, demonstrating how they can help you discover\, research\, and share your family history more effectively. This is an excellent opportunity to learn tips and tricks from a leading expert and get answers to your questions about using MyHeritage. \nOn Zoom only \nRegister for this Program\n\n  \nFAQs for this program: \n\nWho may register for this program?  Public\nIs it being recorded?  Yes\nIs the recording available to members?  Yes\nIs the recording available to non-members?  No
URL:https://jgstoronto.ca/event/myheritage-special-interest-group/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Special Interest Groups
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jgstoronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/MyHeritage-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250914T133000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250914T163000
DTSTAMP:20260630T014057
CREATED:20241115T000111Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250930T013938Z
UID:8954-1757856600-1757867400@jgstoronto.ca
SUMMARY:40th Anniversary Gala
DESCRIPTION:  \n \n \nTicket price is $30\nBook price is $40. If the book is to be mailed\, and not picked up at the Gala\, there will be a $25 mailing charge.\nPurchase Tickets or Pre-order Books\n\n\n 
URL:https://jgstoronto.ca/event/40th-anniversary-gala/
LOCATION:Leah Posluns Theatre\, 4588 Bathurst St\, North York\, Ontario\, M2R 3V2\, Canada
CATEGORIES:General Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jgstoronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/JGS-Toronto-Logo-40th-Anniversary-tight.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250810T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250814T170000
DTSTAMP:20260630T014057
CREATED:20240903T004149Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250416T163308Z
UID:8801-1754812800-1755190800@jgstoronto.ca
SUMMARY:45th IAJGS International Conference on Jewish Genealogy
DESCRIPTION:Fort Wayne\, Indiana \nwww://iajgs.org/conference/iajgs2025/ \n\n\n\n\nJoin the International Association of Jewish Genealogical Societies (IAJGS) and the Northeast Indiana Jewish Genealogy Society August 10-14\, 2025 in Fort Wayne\, Indiana\, for an exceptional and unique Conference experience! \n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhy Fort Wayne?\n\n\nMedia Collection\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Call for Proposals is now open!   Click here for more information. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHere’s how to learn more about the Conference: \n\nView a video of our 2025 IAJGS Conference Information Session (31:23)\nCheck out the IAJGS 2025 Conference Discussion Facebook Group\nJoin our mailing list to receive more information.\nContact info@iajgs2025.org with questions
URL:https://jgstoronto.ca/event/45th-iajgs-international-conference-on-jewish-genealogy/
CATEGORIES:General Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250618T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250618T210000
DTSTAMP:20260630T014057
CREATED:20250502T213000Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250502T214256Z
UID:9402-1750275000-1750280400@jgstoronto.ca
SUMMARY:JGS Toronto Hybrid Event: AGM and Brickwalls and Breakthroughs
DESCRIPTION:This will be virtual via Zoom and an in-person meeting.   Our Annual JGS Toronto Meeting will be followed by “Brickwalls and Breakthroughs”.  Click on this link to see the full outline of this event. \nAGM: 7:30 to 8:00 pm \nBrickwalls and Breakthroughs: 8:00 pm to 9:30 pm \n 
URL:https://jgstoronto.ca/event/brickwalls-and-annual-general-meeting-hybrid-jgs-event/
LOCATION:Shaarei Shomayim Congregation\, 470 Glencairn Ave.\, Toronto\, Ontario\, M5N 1V8\, Canada
CATEGORIES:General Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jgstoronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/blog-placeholder.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250601T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250601T120000
DTSTAMP:20260630T014057
CREATED:20250317T222802Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250331T215309Z
UID:9207-1748773800-1748779200@jgstoronto.ca
SUMMARY:JGS Toronto Event in Partnership with Classi Lectures: The History of the Jews of South Africa
DESCRIPTION:This will be a Zoom Event Only: \nGo to the JGS Toronto website Members page to register. \nSpeaker: Ralph Cilevitz \nJEWISH GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY OF TORONTO\nA History of the South African Jews: From The Pale to Pretoria\n…Carrying a Small Suitcase Filled with Courage\, Faith and Hope \nSunday\, 01 June 2025 at 10:30 a.m. \nZOOM ONLY \nIn this powerful presentation\, Ralph Cilevitz tells the story of Jewish immigrants who journeyed\nfrom the cities and shtetls of the Pale of Settlement to the cities and dorpies at the southern tip\nof Africa. Most arrived young\, alone\, and with little more than their determination and quiet\nstrength. Ralph explores how thousands of Jewish families built new lives and preserved their\nfaith and hope while adapting to unfamiliar places and languages. He offers a vivid look at\ncourage\, migration\, resilience\, and community. Whether you’re interested in genealogy\, Jewish\nhistory\, or human endurance\, this presentation brings the past to life in a way that is deeply\npersonal and richly human.\nRalph Cilevitz was born in South Africa and studied electronic and mechanical engineering\nbefore emigrating to Canada in 1979. Based in Toronto\, he is a board member of the Jewish\nGenealogical Society of Toronto. With over 50 years of genealogical research\, Ralph combines\nhistorical insight with a passion for storytelling. When he’s not digging through archives\, you’ll\nfind him competing on the track in multi-event athletics\, playing field hockey or pickleball\, or\nstrumming the guitar.
URL:https://jgstoronto.ca/event/jgs-toronto-event-the-history-of-the-south-african-jews/
CATEGORIES:General Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://jgstoronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/IMG_0523.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250504T102000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250504T120000
DTSTAMP:20260630T014057
CREATED:20241021T131926Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241021T131926Z
UID:8901-1746354000-1746360000@jgstoronto.ca
SUMMARY:JGS Toronto Virtual Event: DNA Special Interest Group
DESCRIPTION:JEWISH GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY OF TORONTO \n  \nDNA SPECIAL INTEREST GROUP (SIG)\nQ&A WORKSHOP \nFeaturing our JGS Toronto members\,\nGil Bardige and Arthur Sissman \n  \nSunday\, 3 November 2024 at 10:30 am. ET \nVIRTUAL MEETING: Join from Home\nVirtual doors open at 10:20 a.m. ET \nWe are pleased to announce the return of our DNA Special Interest Group (SIG) program this year\, featuring our esteemed members Gil Bardige and Arthur Sissman\, both recognized as experts in Jewish DNA.\nAll are invited to participate in our 4-part DNA Q&A Special Interest Group (SIG) meeting! Our DNA experts will commence the session with a brief educational presentation covering the basics of DNA or strategies for interpreting test results. \n4-part DNA Q&A series on Sundays at 10:30 am ET. \n4 May 2025  \n\nHere’s your chance to send in your DNA-related inquiries to our experts\, who are here to aid your research. When you submit your questions\, there might be a request for consent to potentially share your screen\, DNA match names\, and family tree members. This sharing enables others to learn from the techniques used by our experts. Please be sure to include comprehensive details with your question\, highlighting your previous research. You’ll find the questionnaire form available on the registration page – please send your submissions before Monday\, 28 Oct 2024. This deadline ensures that our maven can contact you for any extra information\, if required. \n\nGil Bardige\, originally from Chicago\, has been a genealogist for over 40 years and a genetic genealogist since 2007.  He has tested at the 4 major testing companies and is the Co-Administrator of 3 projects at FTDNA including Jewish R1B and R-A11711 Subclade Projects.  He is Chair of the Columbus Ohio JGS\, a volunteer at IAJGS Conferences (including the Program Committee)\, and Director of the Mentoring Program.  Gil is a firm believer that you can use DNA results as a tool in your genealogy research.  Over the last five years\, he has regularly helped people navigate their DNA matches by speaking at dozens of Jewish genealogical societies. After his presentations\, people say: “Thank you\, Gil\, I am no longer confused!”\n\nArthur Sissman\, from Naples FL\, has been engaged in family history genealogy since 1999 and genetic genealogy (DNA) since 2015. Arthur has built over 60 family history trees for his various family surname lines. In addition\, he has tested his autosomal DNA at all the major DNA testing companies\, and his Y-DNA and MtDNA at FamilyTreeDNA.  Using his 3 Legged Stool Protocol – focusing on Surname\, Place and DNA\, Arthur has found relatives previously unknown to him and has built a current tree out to 1500 people\, from Galicia/Romania\, with over 50+ DNA matches across all branches. For information on Arthur’s Jewish Genealogy SIG monthly meetings and scheduled workshops\, email genresearch13@yahoo.com.\n\n \nTo register for the DNA SIG event \, please go to jgstoronto.ca/register. The questionnaire form can be found below the registration link. \nYou will then receive an immediate acknowledgement plus the link to access the event.
URL:https://jgstoronto.ca/event/jgs-toronto-virtual-event-dna-special-interest-group-6/
CATEGORIES:General Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://jgstoronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/101px-DNA_simple.svg1_.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250427T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250427T120000
DTSTAMP:20260630T014057
CREATED:20250317T222217Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250318T221054Z
UID:9203-1745749800-1745755200@jgstoronto.ca
SUMMARY:JGS Toronto Event:  The Jewish Immigrant Aid Society (JIAS) Archives
DESCRIPTION:This will be a hybrid event. \nSunday\, 27 April 2025\, 10:30 a.m. \nTHE ROLE OF JEWISH IMMIGRANT AID SERVICES IN FAMILY HISTORIES \nIn person at Shaarei Shomayim and on ZOOM \nSpeaker: JODI BLOCK \nJodi Block will outline the history of JIAS\, including some of the gems in the Ontario Jewish Archives about JIAS\, and people featured in its history. Over the years\, it was possible to help people understand the circumstances around their family’s arrival in Canada. Information about when they arrived\, where they originated\, and via what route they took is often available. And in some cases\, also details such as their first address\, their host family\, etc. \nJODI BLOCK is the Manager of Community Engagement at JIAS Toronto\, which is a Sponsorship Agreement Holder that works with Canadians to sponsor refugees\, as well as a settlement agency that welcomes and supports diverse newcomers to Canada. As of January 2025\, Jodi’s focus is on volunteerism\, community engagement\, and strategic partnerships.
URL:https://jgstoronto.ca/event/jgs-toronto-event-the-jewish-immigrant-aid-society-jias-archives/
LOCATION:Shaarei Shomayim Congregation\, 470 Glencairn Ave.\, Toronto\, Ontario\, M5N 1V8\, Canada
CATEGORIES:General Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://jgstoronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/IMG_0522.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250319T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250319T213000
DTSTAMP:20260630T014057
CREATED:20241114T235055Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250201T153744Z
UID:8948-1742412600-1742419800@jgstoronto.ca
SUMMARY:JGS Toronto: Zoom Only Event: A Case Study Using the "One-Step Webpages"
DESCRIPTION:JEWISH GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY OF TORONTO\nWednesday\, 19 March 2025\, 7:30 p.m \nON ZOOM ONLY \nCase Study: The Genealogy of Renee Kaufman \nSpeaker: Steven Morse \nThe lecture will present a case study using the One-Step Webpages as well as\nother websites to develop a family history. It illustrates how\, with a minimal\namount of initial information\, an entire genealogy can be obtained. It also shows\nhow to find records despite name misspellings\, and how to avoid accepting\nmistaken information.\nStephen Morse is the creator of the One-Step Website for which he has\nreceived the Lifetime Achievement Award and the Outstanding Contribution\nAward from the International Association of Jewish Genealogical Societies\, as\nwell as other awards.\nIn his other life Stephen is a computer professional with a doctoral degree in\nelectrical engineering. He has held various research\, development\, and teaching\npositions; authored many technical papers; written four textbooks; and holds\nfour patents. He is best known as the architect of the Intel 8086 (the granddaddy\nof today’s Pentium processor)\, which sparked the PC revolution 45 years ago. \nTHE PRESENTATION WILL NOT BE RECORDED.\nTo register please visit jgstoronto.ca/register \nRegister:  https://jgstoronto.ca/programs/ \nzoom
URL:https://jgstoronto.ca/event/a-case-study/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:General Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250309T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250309T120000
DTSTAMP:20260630T014057
CREATED:20241021T131614Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241021T131614Z
UID:8899-1741516200-1741521600@jgstoronto.ca
SUMMARY:JGS Toronto Virtual Event: DNA Special Interest Group
DESCRIPTION:JEWISH GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY OF TORONTO \n  \nDNA SPECIAL INTEREST GROUP (SIG)\nQ&A WORKSHOP \nFeaturing our JGS Toronto members\,\nGil Bardige and Arthur Sissman \n  \nSunday\, 3 November 2024 at 10:30 am. ET \nVIRTUAL MEETING: Join from Home\nVirtual doors open at 10:20 a.m. ET \nWe are pleased to announce the return of our DNA Special Interest Group (SIG) program this year\, featuring our esteemed members Gil Bardige and Arthur Sissman\, both recognized as experts in Jewish DNA.\nAll are invited to participate in our 4-part DNA Q&A Special Interest Group (SIG) meeting! Our DNA experts will commence the session with a brief educational presentation covering the basics of DNA or strategies for interpreting test results. \n4-part DNA Q&A series on Sundays at 10:30 am ET. \n9 March 2025  \n4 May 2025  \n\nHere’s your chance to send in your DNA-related inquiries to our experts\, who are here to aid your research. When you submit your questions\, there might be a request for consent to potentially share your screen\, DNA match names\, and family tree members. This sharing enables others to learn from the techniques used by our experts. Please be sure to include comprehensive details with your question\, highlighting your previous research. You’ll find the questionnaire form available on the registration page – please send your submissions before Monday\, 28 Oct 2024. This deadline ensures that our maven can contact you for any extra information\, if required. \n\nGil Bardige\, originally from Chicago\, has been a genealogist for over 40 years and a genetic genealogist since 2007.  He has tested at the 4 major testing companies and is the Co-Administrator of 3 projects at FTDNA including Jewish R1B and R-A11711 Subclade Projects.  He is Chair of the Columbus Ohio JGS\, a volunteer at IAJGS Conferences (including the Program Committee)\, and Director of the Mentoring Program.  Gil is a firm believer that you can use DNA results as a tool in your genealogy research.  Over the last five years\, he has regularly helped people navigate their DNA matches by speaking at dozens of Jewish genealogical societies. After his presentations\, people say: “Thank you\, Gil\, I am no longer confused!”\n\nArthur Sissman\, from Naples FL\, has been engaged in family history genealogy since 1999 and genetic genealogy (DNA) since 2015. Arthur has built over 60 family history trees for his various family surname lines. In addition\, he has tested his autosomal DNA at all the major DNA testing companies\, and his Y-DNA and MtDNA at FamilyTreeDNA.  Using his 3 Legged Stool Protocol – focusing on Surname\, Place and DNA\, Arthur has found relatives previously unknown to him and has built a current tree out to 1500 people\, from Galicia/Romania\, with over 50+ DNA matches across all branches. For information on Arthur’s Jewish Genealogy SIG monthly meetings and scheduled workshops\, email genresearch13@yahoo.com.\n\n \nTo register for the DNA SIG event \, please go to jgstoronto.ca/register. The questionnaire form can be found below the registration link. \nYou will then receive an immediate acknowledgement plus the link to access the event.
URL:https://jgstoronto.ca/event/jgs-toronto-virtual-event-dna-special-interest-group-5/
CATEGORIES:General Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://jgstoronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/101px-DNA_simple.svg1_.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250219T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250219T210000
DTSTAMP:20260630T014057
CREATED:20241014T193955Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250106T002621Z
UID:8884-1739993400-1739998800@jgstoronto.ca
SUMMARY:JGS Toronto Virtual Event: Vienna Austria Jewish Emigration Applications 1938-39: A Treasure Trove of Genealogical Information
DESCRIPTION:Speaker: Dr. Steve Turner \nMembers Only Event:  A link will be emailed to all members in good standing 2 days before the event. \nDate: Wednesday Feb. 19th \nTime: 7:30 pm Eastern Time \nClick on this link to see the full description of Dr. Turner’s presentation.
URL:https://jgstoronto.ca/event/vienna-austria-jewish-emigration-applications-1938-39-a-treasure-trove-of-genealogical-information/
CATEGORIES:General Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jgstoronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/pexels-pierre-blache-651604-2351414-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20250205T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20250205T160000
DTSTAMP:20260630T014057
CREATED:20241112T142330Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241114T234030Z
UID:8936-1738764000-1738771200@jgstoronto.ca
SUMMARY:JGS Toronto: Educational Event - Introduction to Genealogy
DESCRIPTION:Speaker: Jerry Scherer \nVenue: Beth Avraham Yoseph of Toronto (BAYT) \n613 Clark Ave\, \nThornhill\, ON
URL:https://jgstoronto.ca/event/jgs-toronto-educational-event-introduction-to-genealogy-4/
LOCATION:“Beth Avraham Yoseph of Toronto (BAYT)” \,   613 Clarke St. Thornhill Ontario\, 613 Clarke St.\, Thornhill\, Ontario\, Canada
CATEGORIES:General Events
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR