Unique genealogy workshop aboard Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady. Cruise the North Atlantic Coast out of NYC with stops in Boston, Eastport, ME, St. John, New Brunswick and Halifax, Nova Scotia.

Horse thief, scandal, or a brush with the law lurking in your family tree? Don’t let stigma bury their stories.

Through three compelling case studies, you’ll gain practical tools to replace judgment with understanding, uncover moments of redemption, and transform flaws into meaningful legacies. Become the family storyteller who brings light to the shadows—and leaves others inspired by the journey.

Unique genealogy workshop aboard Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady. Cruise the North Atlantic Coast out of NYC with stops in Boston, Eastport, ME, St. John, New Brunswick and Halifax, Nova Scotia.

Grief turned to shock when an unexpected clue exposed a hidden chapter in my family’s past.

Over 27 years, determination, creativity, and a touch of luck uncovered a truth that was meant to be buried forever.

Discover the tools that brought this secret to light—and how its revelation profoundly shaped the researcher’s life in ways no one could have imagined.

What hidden stories are you waiting to discover?

Unique genealogy workshop aboard Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady. Cruise the North Atlantic Coast out of NYC with stops in Boston, Eastport, ME, St. John, New Brunswick and Halifax, Nova Scotia.

What happens when DNA reveals secrets long kept hidden? DNA testing can connect you to the truth, your past, and people you never knew existed.

Follow one adoptee’s emotional journey to uncover his birth parents and trace his German roots. Armed with a DNA kit and determination, he not only transforms his own life but also changes the life of a newfound cousin forever.

Are you ready to discover your life-changing connections?

Only $60 for 4-week Workshop

(Register by calling 504-452-4370 or email Rhonda@HeritageWithHeart.com)

Week 4: Heirlooms & Stories - 5 Easy Ways to Create Your Legacy Box

Your memories matter!

Learn how to turn them into a lasting gift for your family. Walk through 5 easy ideas to build a Legacy Box filled with photos, keepsakes and personal stories that reflect your life, values and family history.

It’s a simple, meaningful way to share who you are and what matters most with the next generation.

Only $60 for 4-week Workshop

(Register by calling 504-452-4370 or email Rhonda@HeritageWithHeart.com)

Week 3: The Art of Grieving - The Victorian Way

Travel back to 1880 and immerse yourself in a grand Victorian funeral. Uncover the era’s mysterious rituals as you play a vital role in honoring a loved one, just as they did 145 years ago.

Join us for an unforgettable journey through the haunting echoes of the past! Dare to discover your place in this mournful masquerade?

Only $60 for 4-week Workshop

(Register by calling 504-452-4370 or email Rhonda@HeritageWithHeart.com)

Week 2: Where Were You in 1950: Discoveries in the 1950 Census and Beyond

Why is the 1950 Census so special? Maybe because YOU are in it!

Dive into your family’s post-WWII life, uncovering their fascinating stories. Discover vivid details to enrich your family narrative and explore 230 years of US Census history. Watch your past come to life with one remarkable source.

Only $60 for 4-week Workshop

(Register by calling 504-452-4370 or email Rhonda@HeritageWithHeart.com)

Week 1: Following in Her Footsteps: How Women in Your Ancestry Shaped You

Dive into the rich tapestry of your maternal lineage. Explore how the women in your family tree have shaped your identity.

Discover tales of resilience, courage, tenacity and faithfulness. Embark on a journey to uncover the hidden narratives waiting to be unearthed.

Who is YOUR family's heroine? Join us in celebrating the power of HERstory!"

Special guest author Rebecca Shamblin will guide you through the process of transforming your research into a book in her presentation, Leaving a Legacy - Turn Your Family Tree into a Family Book. Rebecca will simplify the process, helping you organize, print, and share your family research, making it an enjoyable and rewarding experience.

Leading off the event, join Rhonda Roederer for an inspiring presentation, Preserving Your Family Stories. Discover the unique value of your family’s history and learn how to uncover and share the fascinating stories that define your heritage. Rhonda will motivate and guide you through the process, ensuring that your family's legacy is preserved for future generations.

This event is FREE and open to the public and sponsored by Hickory Landmarks Society.

Noted New Orleans author, Judge Jay Wilkinson, will discuss his new book, A Lie Will Suffice, the DiGiovanni Family History. Learn how he uncovers long-buried, family mysteries, baring a tapestry of deceit, murder, kidnapping and connections to the underworld.

Family historian, Rhonda Roederer, will present Dare to Air Your Ancestors Dirty Laundry, offering insights into the art of navigating family mysteries.

Registration Required via Mitchell CC

Contact Diane Pritchard at 704-978-5486 or dpritchard@mitchellcc.edu

Beginners Genealogy - Con. Ed. Session #4

A trip of self-discovery starts with looking for just one grave – in my case, a great-grandfather who had passed away over 14 years before I was born. I never dreamed that first walk in my ancestor’s footsteps would lead me across the country and across the globe. This life-changing adventure will inspire you to see the incredible power of connection with “strangers”. A trip of self-discovery starts with looking for just one grave – in my case, a great-grandfather who had passed away over 14 years before I was born. I never dreamed that first walk in my ancestor’s footsteps would lead me across the country and across the globe. This life-changing adventure will inspire you to see the incredible power of connection with “strangers”.

Registration Required via Mitchell CC

Contact Diane Pritchard at 704-978-5486 or dpritchard@mitchellcc.edu

Beginners Genealogy - Con. Ed. Session #3

What may seem like an obstacle, might just be an incredible opportunity. Could YOU be the obstacle? Fearful of reaching out to a stranger? Is that fear physical or emotional? This seminar looks at carefully assessing Risk vs. Reward, exploring how you can enhance your research experience and lead you on a path to those genealogy TREASURES!

You have a fascinating tale to tell! Recognize the value of your story and those of your ancestors. The key to bringing your ancestors to life is in your treasured family pictures. Gather ideas for sharing your family’s stories with future generations. Discover the hidden clues in your old photographs. Everyone’s family has fascinating stories… if you know where to look!

Every day, DNA is unlocking secrets that some have tried to ensure would never be uncovered. An adoptee, armed with a DNA test and the burning desire for the truth, takes a wild ride on an emotional rollercoaster. He feels compelled to not only search for his birth parents, but also the immigrant ancestors who are responsible for his German ancestry. This journey ends with a powerful impact on the adoptee and a life-changing revelation for his new-found cousin.

Cemeteries are some of the most beautiful places to visit. Not only do you have the opportunity to “meet” your ancestors, but so many clues abound just waiting to be discovered to further your research. Learn the keys to decipher those clues and how to plan your personal tombstone tour. Your ancestors eagerly await your visit!