Special Interest Groups

The enthusiasm continues to grow for these informal mini-gatherings that will be held on the first night of the Conference — Thursday, 27 April 2007 from 7:30 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. — on a wide range of topics. These get-togethers provide a great opportunity to meet conference participants and speakers with similar interests.

If you are interested in hosting a Special Interest Group on Thursday evening please contact Allison Ryall at allison@allisonryall.com.

These are the Special Interest Groups, their hosts, and a brief description where available that have been organized so far:

BCG Certification hosted by Elissa Scalise Powell, CG
Learn about the nature and purpose of certification, the application process and requirements for Board certification, and how to prepare if you are interested in applying for certification.

Scottish Research hosted by Diane Rapaport
If Scottish heritage is one of your special interests, come join this group on Scottish Research (hosted by Diane Rapaport, “Scottish Genealogy” columnist for The Highlander magazine). Make new friends, share research tips and genealogical resources with other people tracing Scottish ancestors, and enjoy Scottish music at this casual gathering.

Memory Books and Family Newsletters hosted by Christine Sweet-Hart, CG
Come discuss alternative ways to involve your family members in your family's history such as creating a memory book or by creating a family newsletter to share your research, showcase heirlooms, and share photographs with others in your family. Additionally, we will talk about ways to save and share your unusual family history such as crafts, recipes, and textiles.

Irish Research hosted by Donna Moughty
Learn about and share your experiences doing Irish research. We will discuss various records and sources as well as tips and tricks that can help you find your Irish ancestors.

Connecticut Research hosted by Richard Roberts
Do you have ancestors that were from Connecticut or perhaps passed through Connecticut? If so, then this is the discussion group for you. We will discuss all aspects of conducting genealogical research in Connecticut.

DNA Research and Developments hosted by Melinde Lutz Sanborn
If you want to learn more about DNA research and how it can help you in your family research, then this is the research group for you. We will discuss some of the latest developments in this unique and interesting field.

Eastern Woodland Indian Group hosted by Sherry Gould
If you have an ancestor who was a member of one of the tribes of the Eastern Woodland Indians, or if you are interested in learning more about Northern Indian groups, then this is the special interest group for you.

French Canadian Genealogy by Patti Locke
Come discuss French Canadian genealogy. We will discuss available resources and go over some tips to help you find your ancestors. Enjoy some French Canadian music during our informal discussion period.

Be sure to check the Conference web site http://www.nergc.org/ often for updates to this list.