The Jewish Genealogical Society of the Conejo Valley and Ventura County will celebrate its first anniversary with light refreshments and a gift for all attendees during its next meeting from 1:30 to 4 p.m. Sun., Sept. 17 at Temple Adat Elohim, 2420 E. Hillcrest Drive, Thousand Oaks. The temple co-sponsors the events.

The topic of discussion will be "Our Heritage and Our Health: Genealogy, DNA and Genetic Conditions among the Ashkenazi Jews." Guest speaker Gary Frohlich, a patient care liaison/ certified genetic counselor at Genzyme Therapeutics will discuss the importance of knowing one's family health history-an integral part of genealogy-and the increased risks of inherited diseases of Ashkenazi (Eastern European) Jews. Details taken from interviews and family documents can create a medical history of the family.

Frohlich will explain why some diseases such as Tay-Sachs, Gaucher, Familial Dysautonomia and others are more common in Jewish families. Guests will learn why some Jewish families would benefit from education, screening and testing for certain disorders. In addition, members will be reporting on the International Association of Jewish Genealogical Societies conference in New York.

The Jewish Genealogical Society of the Conejo Valley and Ventura County is dedicated to sharing genealogical information, techniques and research tools with anyone interested in Jewish genealogy and family history.

There is no charge to attend the meeting. Anyone may join the group. Annual dues are $25 for an individual and $30 for a family.

For more information email publicity@jgscv.org or call Agoura Hills resident Jan Meisels Allen at (818) 889-6616.