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The October Mailbag: Naval Veteran Research and Heritage Month
Journey through the National Archives with us as we highlight the distinctions between researching Navy records and other branches.

Let's celebrate in October: Family History Month, Hispanic Heritage Month and Naval Research.

Family History Month Resources

1. Family Search 31 October celebrations ideas
2. National Genealogical Society and Brain Health
3. Library of Congress

September / October Newsletter

• Hispanic Heritage Month
• 8 Tips: Puerto Rican Research
• FamilySearch Wiki

This episode promises a blend of history, humor, and celebrations.

Be sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: Off the Wall with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials.

Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org.
Thanks to MyHeritage for their generous support to Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen! Follow us on social media and subscribe to HTB with Kathleen in order to enter your name in our monthly MyHeritage Complete Package giveaway starting Jan 2024!

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Join us as we sit down with Sofia Stewart, a remarkable intern from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Sofia's journey began in a Russian orphanage and led her to Arkansas, where her deep-seated passion for sociology and understanding societal dynamics took root. Through her work at Tracing Ancestors, backed by the Mellon Grant program, Sofia channels her background into grant writing and creatively designing promotional content, all while unveiling the profound importance of genealogy in shaping our stories.

Ever wondered about the hidden narratives within your family tree? This episode promises a captivating exploration of Romani ancestry and the complexities of adoption. Sophia shares personal and historical insights, from the deportation of Romani people to Siberia to the traditional Russian naming patterns that link her to her roots. We dive into her family history, including the lives of her parents, Alex and Faina, and the significance of DNA in uncovering close relatives and piecing together her adoption story. Tune in for a rich tapestry of identity, history, and the power of storytelling in genealogy.

Be sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: Off the Wall with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials.

Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org.
Thanks to MyHeritage for their generous support to Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen! Follow us on social media and subscribe to HTB with Kathleen in order to enter your name in our monthly MyHeritage Complete Package giveaway starting Jan 2024!

Let us know what you think!

How would you feel if your loved one's ashes were left forgotten on a dusty shelf or found on the side of the road? In this episode of Hittin’ the Bricks with Kathleen, we unravel the journey of Lanae Strovers, a dedicated funeral director and trainer, who has found over 300 unclaimed urns. With great compassion and determination, Lanae is committed to giving these forgotten souls dignified burials. Joined by Dennis Allen a retired firefighter, and Cris Nagla, this trio has organized mass burials with overwhelming community support. Dennis and Cris run Avon Cementery of Des Moines, IA.

Lanae has also partnered with the Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Adel, IA. In this episode she shines a light on the powerful ceremonies held to honor unclaimed veterans in Iowa. Host Kathleen Brandt, will be participating in the upcoming Final Salute 27 ceremony Sep 2024. Learn more about this public event at The Final Salute (FB page).

The movie based on a live story can be found on Tubi or Prime Video. Use link below: Chasing the Dead Requiem

Can't make it in person: Feed Event
We invite you to stay connected for more inspiring stories and submit your genealogical questions. Subscribe at linktr.ee/hittinthebricks

Be sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: Off the Wall with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials.

Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org.
Thanks to MyHeritage for their generous support to Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen! Follow us on social media and subscribe to HTB with Kathleen in order to enter your name in our monthly MyHeritage Complete Package giveaway starting Jan 2024!