March Newsletter

 St. Patrick's Day Heritage

Honoring Irish Heritage

St. Patrick's Day, celebrated on March 17th, is more than just a day for parades, green attire, and festive gatherings—it's an opportunity to connect with family history and honor Irish heritage. Whether you have Irish ancestry or simply appreciate the shamrock-loving, tartan-wearing culture, the holiday provides an entire day to delve into the past and celebrate your roots.

Exploring Family Lineage

For many, St. Patrick's Day sparks curiosity about family lineage. Approximately 9.5% of the United States population is of Irish descent, making it one of the most common ancestries in the country. It's the perfect time to research genealogy, uncover family stories, and explore connections to Ireland. Resources like Ancestry.com or FamilySearch, DNA testing services, and local historical societies (hint, hint...the FamilySearch Center in Burley) can help trace family roots back to Irish ancestors. Understanding where your family comes from adds a personal significance to the holiday and fosters a sense of belonging.

Preserving Family Recipes

Family traditions play a vital role in celebrating St. Patrick's Day. Cooking traditional Irish meals, such as corned beef and cabbage or Irish soda bread, can be a way to honor the culinary heritage passed down through generations. Sharing these recipes with younger family members not only keeps traditions alive but also strengthens family bonds. And if baking Irish foods is out of your skillset, adding some green food coloring to pancakes or cake frosting can be another fun way to celebrate as a family. 

Storytelling Across Generations

Irish people are known for their storytelling and legends (the gift of the blarney). Storytelling is another powerful way to bridge the gap between past and present. Take time to share family legends, anecdotes, or letters from ancestors. These stories connect generations, helping children and grandchildren understand their heritage and the sacrifices made by those who came before them.

Embracing Cultural Heritage

Even if your family doesn't have Irish roots, celebrating St. Patrick's Day can inspire a deeper appreciation for cultural heritage. Use the day as an opportunity to learn about Irish history, music, and traditions. Encourage family members to create online or literal family trees, document memories by taking pictures of your celebrations, and maybe even invite other families to join you as well. 

A Legacy Worth Celebrating

St. Patrick's Day reminds us that our family stories are worth celebrating. Whether through food, stories, or research, connecting with your family's history can make the holiday even more special and strengthen the ties that bind generations together.

Song of the Month

CONSULTANT LESSONS

Consultant Lessons are  held weekly on Thursdays at 6:00 pm taught by Shelley Miles. She will be using Zoom Class Replays as taught by the Los Angeles Family Search Center. It may be geared for ward and stake temple and family history consultants, but all are welcome to come learn more about FamilySearch. 

Classes Include:

- Consultant’s Best Resources

-The Basics/Descendency Tree

-Blue Dots and Source Linker

-Family Search Catalog

-Family Tree Apps

-Fan Charts

-Memories

 

CALENDAR

Check the calendar for classes and other opportunities! 

Important Dates

March 5th-8th Roots Tech

 

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February Newsletter

 Love Through Generations: A Family-Centered Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is often seen as a celebration of corny movies, a gazillion valentines, and romantic love, but at its core, it is about all the simple type of love—including the deep, spiritual love shared within families across generations. Our ancestors carried stories of love, sacrifice, and resilience that shaped who we are today. This Valentine’s Day, take time to honor those connections and create meaningful memories with your family.

Honoring Love from the Past

One beautiful way to celebrate is by exploring the love within your very own family history. Love letters, wedding photos, or stories passed down through generations can remind us of the enduring power of love. Visit with grandparents or older relatives, asking about their most cherished memories of love and marriage, perhaps even asking about past traditions. 

Spiritual Connection Through Family Traditions

Consider holding a small family gathering centered around gratitude and love. Light a candle in remembrance of ancestors who paved the way for your family. Share family blessings or prayers, reflecting on how love has been a guiding force through generations. A gratitude journal, where each family member writes a note of appreciation for another, can also be a powerful tradition.

Valentine’s Day Activities Ideas with Family

1. Create a Family Love Tree – Write down ancestors’ names and stories on heart-shaped notes and hang them on a decorative branch or old jewelry tree.
2. Cook a Heritage-Inspired Meal – Prepare a dish that reflects your cultural heritage (but make it heart-shaped) and enjoy it together.
3. Make Handmade Valentine’s for Family – Include family history tidbits or favorite memories in each card.
4. Story Night – Share love stories from your family’s past and discuss what love means across generations.

This Valentine’s Day, let love be more than a fleeting moment. Let it be a bridge between the past, present, and future.

Song of the Month

ACCESSING ZOOM CLASSES

Some of our classes at the center are being offered via Zoom. This includes the Basic Spanish class by Cameron and Wednesday morning classes by Tammy. To verify the Zoom class, go to the blog at burleyfamilyhistorycenter.blogspot.com and click on the Calendar option. When clicking on the class name, a pop up window will give more information, including the Zoom link.   

To access the Zoom link directly, click "more details" to open the calendar in another tab. Click on the name of the class and this time the pop up window will have the direct zoom link shown as a clickable link. The passcode is also listed, in case it is needed. This is also the way to access the handouts from the classes. 

You can also select "click here to open the calendar in a new window" from the first page and get the zoom links and handouts from there. 

CONSULTANT LESSONS

Consultant Lessons are  held weekly on Thursdays at 6:00 pm taught by Shelley Miles. She will be using Zoom Class Replays as taught by the Los Angeles Family Search Center. It may be geared for ward and stake temple and family history consultants, but all are welcome to come learn more about FamilySearch. 

Classes Include:

- Consultant’s Best Resources

-The Basics/Descendency Tree

-Blue Dots and Source Linker

-Family Search Catalog

-Family Tree Apps

-Fan Charts

-Memories

 

CALENDAR

Check the calendar for classes and other opportunities! 

Important Dates

February 7  Burley Family Search Center 6th Annual Expo at the Burley West Stake Center, 5-9 pm

February 8  Burley Family Search Center 6th Annual Expo at the CSI Mini-Cassia Campus, 8 am- 5 pm

 

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 January Newsletter

New Year’s Resolutions: Setting Meaningful Goals Rooted in Family History

The New Year brings a sense of renewal and hope, inspiring millions to set resolutions that shape the months ahead. While popular goals often center on fitness, finances, or self-improvement, tying your resolutions to your family history can add a deeply personal and motivating layer.

Why Family History Matters
Your family’s story is more than a collection of names and dates—it’s a living legacy of resilience, culture, and values. Incorporating this into your New Year’s resolutions connects you to your roots and inspire meaningful growth. For example, if a grandparent overcame hardships to pursue education, you might commit to a learning goal in their honor. If your family emigrated from another country, you could explore their native language or traditions on holidays.

Setting Goals with Purpose
A meaningful resolution begins with clarity. Use the SMART method—set goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For instance, rather than simply vowing to “exercise more,” you might aim to train for a charity run inspired by a cause your family supports.

Engaging Loved Ones
Resolutions can be an opportunity to strengthen family bonds. Consider setting collective goals, like preserving old photographs, documenting family recipes, or creating a genealogy project. These efforts foster connection and ensure that family stories are passed down to future generations.

Embracing the Journey
Goals tied to family history carry profound significance, but they require patience and flexibility. Mistakes happen. Minds forget goals after a while, and we simply have to start again. Still, celebrate small milestones and remember that progress, not perfection, is the ultimate aim.

This New Year, look to your past to guide your future. By weaving your family’s story into your resolutions, you’ll create goals that are both heartfelt and enduring, ensuring that 2025 is not only a year of personal growth but also a celebration of your shared legacy.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

SONG OF THE MONTH

ACCESSING ZOOM CLASSES

Some of our classes at the center are being offered via Zoom. This includes the Basic Spanish class by Cameron and Wednesday morning classes by Tammy. To verify the Zoom class, go to the blog at burleyfamilyhistorycenter.blogspot.com and click on the Calendar option. When clicking on the class name, a pop up window will give more information, including the Zoom link.   

To access the Zoom link directly, click "more details" to open the calendar in another tab. Click on the name of the class and this time the pop up window will have the direct zoom link shown as a clickable link. The passcode is also listed, in case it is needed. This is also the way to access the handouts from the classes. 

You can also select "click here to open the calendar in a new window" from the first page and get the zoom links and handouts from there. 

CONSULTANT LESSONS

Consultant Lessons are starting again on January 16th. They are held weekly on Thursdays at 6:00 pm taught by Shelley Miles. She will be using Zoom Class Replays as taught by the Los Angeles Family Search Center. It may be geared for ward and stake temple and family history consultants, but all are welcome to come learn more about FamilySearch. 

Classes Include:

- Consultant’s Best Resources

-The Basics/Descendency Tree

-Blue Dots and Source Linker

-Family Search Catalog

-Family Tree Apps

-Fan Charts

-Memories 

CALENDAR

Check the calendar for classes and other opportunities! 

Important Dates

• January 16
• Consultant Lessons
• Burley Family Search Center 6th Annual Expo
• February 7 at the Burley West Stake Center, 5-9 pm
• February 8 at the CSI Mini-Cassia Campus, 8 am- 5 pm

 Closed Dates

• December 22-January 2
• Christmas
• New Year's

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December Newsletter

 Family History at Christmas: A Season of Connection and Discovery

Christmas is a time for snowball fights, pajama parties, family gatherings, food traditions, and silly memories, making it the perfect opportunity to explore and celebrate your family history. The festive season naturally brings loved ones together, offering moments to share never told before stories, uncover hidden connections with cousins and friends, and deepen the sense of Christ and kindness that makes the holiday special.

One way to start is with recipes. Finding them in dusty cookbooks or in faded handwriting is a treasure hunt in its own right. Perhaps a traditional tamale recipe or a pie crust making method can be the centerpiece of Christmas dinner. Christmas cookies alone can cover several days with experimentation and remembering how Grandma used to bake them "back in the good old days." Preparing and enjoying these dishes together allows family members to honor and connect with those they remember and those they never knew, while creating new memories. Encourage everyone to share stories about where these recipes came from and the unique people who first brought them to the table.

Storytelling is another rich avenue for family history involvement. Gather around the sparkly tree or popping fireplace and invite older relatives to share their memories of Christmases past. What was Christmas parties like during the disco era or even ten years ago? When did ugly Christmas sweaters start? Why is there an obsession with peppermint candy? These moments can reveal surprising anecdotes about your individual family’s journey, despite different cultures or regions.

Last, but not least is an interesting one: nativities. Many families have harbored and protected these timeless decorations of Christ's birth--passing them down, collecting, or simply giving them as gifts. Whether made of wood, stone, clay, or other materials, these remind families of the true meaning of Christmas and bring together the generations of those who have set out nativities and those who will continue to do so. Comparing and discussing family nativity sets is a surprisingly great way to discuss relatives, former traditions, and enrich the present Christmas spirit. 

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Song of the Month

Accessing Zoom Classes

Some of our classes at the center are being offered via Zoom. This includes the Basic Spanish class by Cameron and Wednesday morning classes by Tammy. To verify the Zoom class, go to the blog at burleyfamilyhistorycenter.blogspot.com and click on the Calendar option. When clicking on the class name, a pop up window will give more information, including the Zoom link.   

To access the Zoom link directly, click "more details" to open the calendar in another tab. Click on the name of the class and this time the pop up window will have the direct zoom link shown as a clickable link. The passcode is also listed, in case it is needed. This is also the way to access the handouts from the classes. 

You can also select "click here to open the calendar in a new window" from the first page and get the zoom links and handouts from there. 

Calendar

Check the calendar for classes and other opportunities! 

Important Dates

• TBD

 Closed Dates

• December 22-January 2
• Christmas
• New Year's

LINKS TO THE BURLEY FAMILY HISTORY CENTER'S MEDIA PAGES

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November Newsletter

 Family, Thanksgiving, and Gratitude

Gratitude is a powerful sentiment, especially during Thanksgiving, when we take opportunities more often to appreciate the blessings that family, extended family, and life in general provide. Thanksgiving is more than a holiday; it’s an opportunity to pause and reflect on what we have and who we share our lives with. President Thomas S. Monson said, "Sincerely giving thanks not only helps us recognize our blessings, but it also unlocks the doors of heaven and helps us feel God’s love" ("The Divine Gift of Gratitude," 2010). This unlocking the door to heaven can even apply to our family that have passed on. Family, in all its forms, is at the heart of these blessings. Each family member contributes something unique, whether it’s a sense of comfort, memories, support, laughter, or love.

Being grateful for family means recognizing and valuing the moments together, from shared meals and silly, ridiculous traditions to simple, everyday conversations around the table. It’s easy to take these blissful, easy moments for granted, especially in the rush of work, social demands, and familial expectations and needs. Regardless, when we put the phone down, focus on what really matters, enable time to reflect--we realize how precious these connections are and even recall those moments of long ago with those we cannot physically be with at this time. Thanksgiving is a reminder that family, despite its flaws and seemingly endless imperfections, is really a foundation of support, growth, and unconditional love. 

In showing gratitude, we also bring warmth and understanding to these relationships. Thankfulness doesn’t erase challenges or misunderstandings, but it brings kindness and patience to how we relate to each other. Gratitude encourages us to acknowledge the effort each family member makes, whether it’s through mashing a batch of potatoes for the table, lending an ear to a particularly difficult situation, or simply being present and showing up even when exhausted. Expressing this gratitude is an opportunity to deepen these bonds, making the connections we have with our family more meaningful. It can shape the memories of tomorrow. 

As we sit around the Thanksgiving table this autumn, savoring turkey, yams, and green bean casseroles or whatever it is your family deems worthy of the Thanksgiving table, along with the company of those we hold dear, we’re reminded that gratitude turns what we have into enough. Family is always enough. 

Accessing Zoom Classes

Some of our classes at the center are being offered via Zoom. This includes the Basic Spanish class by Cameron and Wednesday morning classes by Tammy. To verify the Zoom class, go to the blog at burleyfamilyhistorycenter.blogspot.com and click on the Calendar option. When clicking on the class name, a pop up window will give more information, including the Zoom link.   

• To access the Zoom link directly, click "more details" to open the calendar in another tab. Click on the name of the class and this time the pop up window will have the direct zoom link shown as a clickable link. The passcode is also listed, in case it is needed. This is also the way to access the handouts from the classes. 

• You can also select "click here to open the calendar in a new window" from the first page and get the zoom links and handouts from there. 

Veteran's Day 

Military Records Class | Monday, November 11th | 2:00 P.M. | Refreshments

We will be open on Veterans Day and celebrating at the center. Come join us for a special class  all about what military records are available and where to find them. Refreshments will follow at 3:00 P.M. Celebrate this great holiday with us at the center. 

Spotlight Class of the Month

Exploring FS Activities | Wednesday, November 20th | 10:30 A.M. | Upstairs Classroom

 Marilyn Moncur will be presenting a new class about all of the activities options on FamilySearch. Several of these would be great activities to share with your family during the upcoming holidays. Come join the fun! We will be in the upstairs classroom. 

Check the calendar for classes and other opportunities! 

Important Dates

• November 2
• Day of the Dead Activity
• November 11
• Veteran's Day : YES, WE ARE OPEN!

 Closed Dates

• November 25-28
• Thanksgiving

LINKS TO THE BURLEY FAMILY HISTORY CENTER'S MEDIA PAGES

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October Newsletter

Ofrendas and Family History

One beautiful way to remember family is by creating an ofrenda, much like in the movie Coco, inspired by Día de los Muertos. Set up a space with photos, favorite belongings, and items that remind you of your loved ones, lighting candles to symbolize their presence. Incorporate marigold flowers, which are believed to guide spirits back to the living world. Share stories, play their favorite music, and prepare their favorite foods, inviting their memory to live on through traditions and celebrations. By honoring their legacy in these special ways, you keep their spirit alive in your heart. 

Or create your own version of the ofrenda using the culture and traditions of your family such as favorite flowers, beloved memorabilia and objects, and more.  

Also, don't forget to take your own pictures of the memories for future generations.

In addition to creating an ofrenda, another meaningful way to remember family is through storytelling. Just like Coco highlights the importance of passing down memories, take time to sit with family members and share tales of your loved ones. These stories not only keep their legacy alive but also help the younger generation connect with their roots. You could even create a family memory book, where each member writes down their favorite memories, creating a lasting treasure that can be passed down.

Another idea is to commemorate your loved ones by celebrating their favorite traditions or hobbies. If your grandfather loved gardening, you could plant a tree or tend to a garden in his honor, symbolizing the growth and nurturing of the family. If your aunt enjoyed baking, you could gather everyone for a family baking day, using her favorite recipes. These acts not only keep their passions alive but also create new memories in their honor, much like Miguel's journey of rediscovery in Coco.

Whether it's through an altar of memories, the power of storytelling, or honoring family traditions, these actions help connect us to the past, ensuring that the love we shared continues to bloom across generations. 

Check the calendar for classes and other opportunities! 

Important Dates

• October 5 and 6
• General Conference
• November 2
• Day of the Dead Activity

 Closed Dates

• October 6
• General Conference
• October 17
• Carpet Cleaning

LINKS TO THE BURLEY FAMILY HISTORY CENTER'S MEDIA PAGES

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September Newsletter

 

Bloom Where You are Planted!

How are you growing and flourishing?  What unique talents and skills have you been blessed with?  Do they need a bit more nurturing and development?  Does your journey include exploring family history?

The start of a new school year is much like the beginning of a new calendar year - a perfect time to reflect on your life, your direction, and your goals.  Take a moment to seriously think about this: What impact are you making in the world around you?  How are you blooming?  Who can you support by teaching a new skill, offering a helping hand, or sending an encouraging message?

Perhaps it’s time to set new goals and move forward.

As you consider your talents and aspirations, remember the Burley FamilySearch Center.  We offer incredible resources on our blog, full of ideas for activities both at the Center and at home.  There’s something for everyone to explore and enjoy!

A Quick Guide to Using Our Blog

Below the title and disclaimer you’ll find several tabs that lead to different pages with more information.  Let’s explore each of these options:

• Home:  Clicking here will always bring you back to the home page where all the latest posts are displayed.

• Calendar:  This tab takes you to our Google Calendar which is updated with new classes, group reservations, cancellations, and center closures.  If you click on a class title, you’ll find more details, including Zoom links for online classes.  You can also view and print any handouts attached to the class by selecting "more details," which will open the calendar in a new window.

• Group Visits: Click here for information on organizing a group visit.  We accommodate families, clubs, youth groups, and more.

• Staff Specialties:  We have over 90 consultants at the Center, each with unique specialties.  Click here to see the range of expertise available.

• Training Guide:  This guide is a resource for our consultants, containing links to websites, articles, and videos on family history.  It’s not only for consultants; anyone interested in enhancing their family history skills can use it.  It’s also a great refresher for those who may need a reminder on certain tasks.

• Temple and Family History Consultant Training:  In The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, wards and stakes ask individuals to serve as consultants to help others with family history. This page contains training specific to those roles, along with some general family history tips.

• Community Projects:  Occasionally, the Center participates in community projects involving local records, photos, or databases.  Click here for more information, including how-to videos, if you’d like to get involved.

• Digitizing Options:  We have a variety of digitizing equipment available at the center.  Whether you have old photos, documents, or other items that need to be preserved, bring them in and make a digital copy.  Just bring your items and a flash drive.  This tab includes links to instructions for the machines if you want to familiarize yourself with their capabilities.

• Zoom Class Replays:  Currently, only Cameron’s classes are recorded, but we hope to add more in the future.  Check this tab to see what recordings are available.

• Activities:  If you’re looking for family history activities to do with your family, friends, or groups, this is the place for you.  Click on this tab for various options, including links to other websites with plenty of ideas to keep you busy.

• Opciones en Español:  This tab provides resources in Spanish, including links to other websites and help with translating websites and YouTube videos.

Center Announcements

Exciting New Class Option  - LA FamilySearch Library has agreed to share their Ward Consultant Lessons with us.  Shelley Miles has agreed to be our presenter for the classes.  These classes are intended to assist Ward and Stake Consultants to feel more comfortable in helping members use FamilySearch.  This will be an 8 week class, each Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. from September 5th to October 31st.  It is not necessary to attend all classes, as each one is an independent topic.  These classes will be a great supplement to the two-part trainings Tammy offers about specifics of Ward and Stake Consultants responsibilities.  Check the calendar for specific topics.  

Wednesday AM classes  - Our Thursday morning classes have become a regular for many.  We have decided to begin offering regularly scheduled classes on Wednesday mornings at 10:30 a.m. as well.  Hoping to establish a habit for family history enthusiasts to come each week for classes.  September classes will be taught by Tammy and include: Memories, Descendancy Research, Using Ancestry's Options, and Using AI (Artificial Intelligence) for Family History Part 1 of 2.  If you have a request for classes, please contact her.  These will be offered via zoom for this month - not recorded at this time. 

Happy Birthday to President Nelson.  We are having a party.  Come watch the special presentation with us and enjoy some cake and ice cream.  September 9th at 4:00 p.m.

Saturday Zoom Class - Tracing Your German Roots.  Thanks to Teresa Carter for sharing this with us. LA FamilySearch Center is having a special presentation by John Schmal.  This presentation will discuss certain research techniques for locating your German ancestors.  John will discuss certain tools for LOCATING A PLACE OF ORIGIN (which is essential to even beginning your search in Germany). He will also show the attendees how to use some of the German databases available on the web (including FamilySearch, Archion and Matricula Online).  Be prepared to do searches for cities and towns that you are interested in.  Handouts will be included. 

Link: https://churchofjesuschrist.zoom.us/j/95462341725?pwd=dmxZaWNGR1hpWVlCM1lYaHBENERLdz09#success 

Be sure to check the calendar for all classes!  

The Burley FamilySearch Center will be closed on

September 1st and 2nd for Labor Day!

LINKS TO THE BURLEY FAMILY HISTORY CENTER'S MEDIA PAGES

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