Techniques for ancestor searches at workshop

BRADENTON -- Manatee Genealogical Society will present internationally-known publisher and speaker Richard Eastman for their 2013 Winter Seminar at Bethel Baptist Church, 1805 30th Ave. W., 8 a.m.- 3 p.m. Saturday.

Topics scheduled: The nature of genealogy in 10 years, effective use of Google in research, analyzing and using DNA in genealogy investigations, and a mystery lecture that could prove invaluable for individual family ancestor research.

Eastman is writer and publisher of Eastman's Online Genealogy Newsletter with a free circulation of 60,000 amateur and professional family research enthusiasts worldwide and the deeper subscription-based Plus Edition. He combines 40 years in the computer industry with 30 years involvement in genealogy to conduct highly popular, informative and entertaining presentations.

Seminar cost is $40, including morning coffee and lunch for pre-registered attendees. Checks payable to Manatee Genealogical Society should be sent to PO Box 1194, Bradenton, FL 34206. Detailed information and registration form can be found at http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~flmgs/. Further information is available from seminar Chair Phyllis Doucette at 941-744-0522.

Six heritage water tours to be offered in March

MANATEE -- Manatee County Department of Historical Resources in partnership with Island Pearl Excursions will host six heritage water tours in March. A portion of proceeds will benefit four historic organizations including Manatee Village Historical Park, Florida Maritime Museum, the Palmetto Historical Park, and the Manatee Agricultural Museum.

The tours are a part of March Manatee Heritage Days, a month long focus on the county's history. The historical narrative will be given by county historian Cathy Slusser and includes stories about the communities along the river and its significance to the development of our area.

All tours will leave from Pier 22, 1200 First Avenue W., at the end of 12th Street West or Old Main Street in Downtown Bradenton. First Avenue West is also known as Barcarrota Boulevard. Parking should be along Barcarrota Boulevard and not on the approach to Pier 22.

There will be two tours each on March 2, March 5, and March 29. Tours leave at 10 a.m. or 1 p.m.

Tickets will be $30 per tour. The Island Pearl has limited seating and last year's boat trips sold out so make your reservations today by calling 941-780-8010 and speaking to Captain Jeff or visit (http://www.amishuttleservice.com/) for more information.

-- Herald staff reports