NERGC Hartford 2007: New England CONNECTions

INFORMATION ABOUT NERGC 2009

2007-06-15T09:54:00.000-04:00

NERGC’s tradition of excellence in providing genealogical lectures, seminars and workshops as well as exhibitors’ booths, the Ancestors Road Show, a Society Fair, and luncheons and banquets continues in April 2009 in Manchester, New Hampshire.

The Tenth New England Regional Genealogical Conference, Discovering Family Treasures, will be held April 22-26, 2009 at the Expo Center of New Hampshire and Radisson Hotel in Manchester. National speakers will be Thomas W. Jones, James Hansen, and Megan S. Smolenyak.

Pauline Cusson, Melinde Sanborn, and Allison Ryall will Co-Chair the 2009 Conference, and Program Co-Chairs will be Christine Sweet-Hart and Barbara Mathews.
Watch the NERGC website www.nergc.org ( http://www.nergc.org/ )for updates as they become available.

VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION DRAWINGS AT NERGC 2007

2007-06-15T09:48:00.000-04:00

Cheryl Patten’s daily appreciation drawing for volunteers drew much interest. Daily winners included Joe Hoefflinger (CAS) who took away the L.L. Bean Flashlight, Bonnie Sweatman (CMGS) who won the L.L. Bean Passport Organizer, Linda Pelletier and Oti Wyatt who won Dunkin Donut Gift Cards, and Cindy Knight-Palazzo who won the L.L. Bean Personal Organizer.

MANY THANKS TO ALL THOSE WHO PUT IN HUNDREDS OF HOURS PRIOR TO, DURING AND EVEN NOW IN WRAPPING UP THE CONFERENCE!

SPECIAL RECOGNITIONS AT THE CONFERENCE

2007-06-15T09:35:00.002-04:00

During the Conference, the following individuals were recognized for their special contributions to the New England genealogical community:

Rosalie Godfrey
Our special guest, Rosalie Godfrey, was a solid, moving force from the first NERGC planning meeting in 1986 through the initial planning stages of our NGS-NERGC meeting in Providence. She was among the original delegates who conceived, designed, and created NERGC. She performed numerous jobs for NERGC with efficiency, skill, and forethought. Her leadership in helping create NERGC will not be forgotten.

Cherry Fletcher Bamberg
Cherry Bamberg was the recipient of the 2006 Donna Holt Siemiatkoski Volunteer of the Year Award. Since joining the editorial staff of Rhode Island Roots and subsequently becoming its chief editor, Cherry has steadily improved the quality of the publication to the point where today it is among the finest journals published by a genealogical society. Her work to strengthen and grow the Rhode Island Genealogical Society and genealogy in Rhode Island exemplify the very best in volunteer service.

Cheryl Willis Patten
Cheryl Patten was the recipient of the 2005 Donna Holt Siemiatkoski Volunteer of the Year Award. Her efforts on behalf of the Maine Genealogical Society, the New England Regional Genealogical Conference, and genealogy in general have been prodigious. Over a period of many years, she has time and again gone beyond the call of duty to promote and otherwise advocate for genealogical concerns in the state of Maine. Cheryl Patten's life has been dedicated to promoting genealogy in Maine and in every aspect of her career she has symbolized the ideal volunteer.

Joseph V. Camposeo, CMC
Joe Camposeo, the newly elected President of the Connecticut Town Clerks Association, has been the Town Clerk of Manchester, Connecticut eleven years and in 1999 became a Certified Municipal Clerk (CMC). His Family History Days in Manchester were popular with the public and genealogists and have evolved into annual Genealogy Road Shows. He responded to a genealogists’ initiative for better communication between Town Clerks and genealogists by Co-Chairing an Action Group that has served both communities.

SOME COMMENTS FROM COMMITTEE CHAIRS

2007-06-15T09:35:00.001-04:00

From Janet Wallace, Hospitality and Queries Chair:
WASN'T IT GREAT????? We are definitely now in the Big League! That Conference was a mighty big mountain to come down from!

From Nancy Pexa, Society Fair Chair:
Everyone deserves a huge thank you for a job well done - Hartford was actually a shining star. All the sessions were appropriate to the setting and occasion. I thank you for letting me be a part of the event. I want to thank everyone who helped make the conference so great. I did not know what to expect, and it was everything I hoped it would be.

From Melinde Sanborn, Distinguished Service Awards Chair:
Although it was part of the Special Award that Rosalie Godfrey didn't have to speak at the banquet where she was our guest (all pleasure, no work), she did spend some time with me reminiscing about the early days of NERGC. It was wonderful to see how much we've grown and prospered through her eyes!

COMMENTS FROM ATTENDEES (TAKEN FROM FULL CONFERENCE EVALUATION FORMS)

2007-06-15T09:33:00.000-04:00

Some of the things "liked best":

"This is one of the best conferences that I have attended."
"Excellent job by committee. Well done!"
"Great presentations"
"So many great sessions/topics to choose from."
"Location - easy to do in a day"
"The great facility"
"Easy parking"
"Excellent Convention Center food and staff"
"Chance to visit with old friends"
"Meeting people"
"Friendly volunteers"
"Friendly people, interesting lectures, and lots to look at."
"Syllabus is wonderful"
"Bags are great! I love the square bottom & place for a water bottle."
"It was excellently run. Thanks for all your hard work."

Some of the things "liked least"
"The price of parking"
"Meeting room layout"
"Cold rooms"
"Too much walking"
"Some sessions were crowded."
"Thursday was too long with no break."
"No time for lunch or supper on Thursday."
"Little dedicated vendor time outside sessions"

The 2007 Evaluation Chair and Conference Co-Chairs appreciate all the feedback we received. Summaries and analyses will contribute to a comprehensive report for NERGC’s Annual Meeting. Conference committees and participating societies will get summaries. NERGC will use the feedback to improve the variety of programming, vendors, and resources available; the quality and expertise of its speakers; and the usefulness of the networking and sharing opportunities to make our next conference even better than this one.

CONFERENCE EVALUATIONS UPDATE

2007-06-15T09:31:00.002-04:00

Pam Roberts, our Evaluation Chair, reports that this year NERGC expanded its program evaluation model to include individual session evaluation feedback forms for each speaker in addition to the overall conference evaluation. New England CONNECTions drew a diverse audience in age, experience, professional background and interests, and the evaluations have a wealth of comments that will assist us in meeting these diverse needs in the future.

The data from each individual session as well as the data from the full conference evaluation will contribute to an overall conference evaluation report for use not only by NERCG 2007 Chairpersons and Committees but for future planning by NERGC 2009 Chairpersons and Committees.

Preliminary data shows that our NERGC attendees participated in session evaluations at a higher rate than the 25-30% voluntary expected return rate for most audiences. In nearly all sessions, over 50% of attendees filled out at least a portion of the evaluation form and in some cases over 80% of attendees returned forms.

This high representation of opinion increases the likelihood that the data summary for each session is truly representative of the audience attending each presentation. Overall, hour-long speaker sessions were rated "very good" to excellent" with strong agreement that participants learned something new and that expectations and needs were met.

PRELININARY REGISTRATION STATISTICS

2007-06-15T09:31:00.001-04:00

Mary Choppa, who did an outstanding job as Registration Chair, has provided an initial breakdown on where attendees came from. While the majority were from New England (including over 300 from Connecticut and 180 from Massachusetts), the conference also attracted attendees from the:

Middle Atlantic States: 65
Southern States: 24
Midwest: 12
Far West: 20
Canada: 4
England: 2

New EnglandCONNECTionsWRAP-UP

2007-06-15T09:28:00.000-04:00

Although the final tally isn’t in, preliminary figures indicate over 720
were on hand at the Connecticut Convention Center and Hartford
Marriott Downtown April 25-29 for New England CONNECTions.

The evaluation forms completed by attendees indicate that the quality
of the speakers was among the most highly rated features of
New England CONNECTions, and the Conference Co-Chairs Tom Howard
and Dick Roberts and Program Chairs Allison Ryall and Christine Sweet-Hart
wish to thank each and every one of them for their wonderful performance.

The Co-Chairs also want to publicly acknowledge the tremendous job done
by our hardworking Committee Chairs. To say that you are the greatest would
be an understatement. Without your enormous effort and on-going participation,
Hartford 2007 would have not been the success it turned out to be. We also thank
the many, many volunteers from many organizations (as well as a number
who were unaffiliated with any NERGC society) who contributed countless
hours of volunteer time.

Very special thanks also go to Dick Eastman for making it possible to
check e-mail and perform other tasks on the Web from the Exhibitors' Hall as
well as his special report on the conference, complete with pictures, in his Online
Genealogy Newsletter of April 29, 2007.

He wrote in part, "I just returned from the New England Regional Genealogical
Conference in Hartford, Connecticut. As expected, this was a great conference.
I believe the total attendance was more than 700, not bad for a regional conference
covering only six small states. The event featured presentations by top national and
regional genealogical experts. The Connecticut Conference Center is a first-class facility
although the attendees, lecture rooms and exhibitors' hall only filled a small part of
the available space.

The convention opened under sunny skies on Thursday although I think that was
the last time the sun was seen. The remaining days were overcast with frequent showers.
Those of us who stayed at the nearby Marriott Hotel didn't mind because we didn't need
to go outside. The hotel, restaurant, coffee shops, convention center, and parking garage
were all connected."

For the full story, see http://blog.eogn.com/eastmans_online_genealogy/2007/04/nergc
_2007_wrap.html#more

SUNDAY MORNING SPECIAL SESSION

2007-04-28T22:35:00.000-04:00

“Sinners at the Hands of an Angry God” A Portrayal of Reverend Jonathan Edwardswith Rev. Adam Söderberg
Sunday, April 29, 2007 9:00 - 10:00 a.m.

Sponsored by the Descendants of the Founders of Ancient Windsor

In 1733, a religious revival began in Northampton, Massachusetts and was followed in 1739-1740 by the Great Awakening. During this time, Jonathan Edwards, a Connecticut native—father of twelve, preacher, scholar, missionary, and President of Princeton University—preached his most famous sermon, “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God.”
Following in the tradition of recent NERGC conferences, Rev. Söderberg will begin the session with a short introduction to Jonathan Edwards and this very famous sermon, and then deliver the sermon in period costume.

UPS SHIPPING AVAILABLE AT CONFERENCE

2007-04-23T20:10:00.000-04:00

Need a convenient way to get all your Conference purchases home? The UPS Store is located across from Starbucks coffee shop in the Marriott hotel. Hours: M-F 7:00 A.M. - 6:30 PM and Saturday 8:00 A.M. - 3:00 P.M. They offer packing, shipping, receiving, printing and more. Telephone: (860) 656-7386

HELP WANTED!

2007-04-23T20:06:00.000-04:00

Occasional help manning a book-selling booth in the Exhibit Hall.

Coverage needed for Thursday afternoon move-in 1PM-3PM and 6PM-7:30PM opening; Friday afternoon 3PM-5PM; and Saturday 1:30PM-3PM.

Duties include set-up, assistance, drawing up sales slips, taking money, helping customers.

PAY - a free registration to the full conference and a discount on almost all books purchased from the booth. Contact Melinde at melinde44@comcast.net
or 603-247-4775.

Slavic Research Special Interest Group Added!

2007-04-23T20:02:00.000-04:00

Slavic Research hosted by Matthew Bielawa and Jonathan Shea

"If your family has roots in Eastern Europe then this is the special interest group for you. We will discuss ways to track down and locate your Eastern European ancestors. Join us, make new friends, and exchange tips with other people who share the same interesting heritage as you do."
Special Interest Groups will meet on Thursday, April 26, 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm. Room locations will be posted at the conference.

CONNECTICUT HISTORICAL SOCIETY HOURS DURING THE CONFERENCE

2007-04-21T10:25:00.002-04:00

The Connecticut Historical Society Library will be open extra hours until 8:00 P.M. on Thursday, April 26th. The Society officially closes at 5:00 P.M., so visitors coming to use the library after 5:00 will have to ring the doorbell. There will be no admission fee.

April 28th is Connecticut History Day and the Connecticut Historical Society is the site for the day's activities, so the CHS Library will be closed to the public that day.

EVALUATE NERGC 2007 – SHARE WHAT YOU THINK.

2007-04-21T10:25:00.001-04:00

Ever wonder if the time filling out an evaluation makes a difference? Who looks at it and what is it used for?

Well, for NERGC 2007, feedback will be summarized and reported at the Annual Meeting and program speakers, conference committees and participating societies will get summaries. NERGC uses feedback to improve the variety of programming, vendors and resources available, the quality and expertise of its speakers, as well as the usefulness of the networking and sharing at special events, in the hallways and while browsing thru the Exhibit Hall. The “Ancestors Road Show”, “Queries”, the “Message Board”, Luncheons and Banquets with speakers all exist partially because of feedback.

Want to see a speaker of your choice in 2009? Do you have ideas for ways the conference could be more family friendly? What caught your eye, why did you come? How can NERGC improve for 2009? THE NERGC 2007 EVALUATION will give each of you a chance to tell us what you thought of the 2007 experience and what you would like to see in the future. Fill out the forms to assure that your opinion will be considered. Watch for the general conference evaluation feedback form distributed in your bag when you register. Fill out the program session forms available in each meeting room and return anywhere you see the NERGC 2007 Evaluation signs.

EXTRA ANCIENT BURYING GROUND CEMETERY TOUR ADDED

2007-04-21T10:23:00.002-04:00

Ruth Shapleigh Brown, Executive Director of the Connecticut Gravestone Network, has generously offered to lead NERGC attendees on informal guided tours of Hartford’s Ancient Burying Ground.

The first tour will be on Wednesday, April 25 at 4:30 P.M., just after the Librarian’s Day closes, the second on Thursday, April 26 at 10:00 A.M. To accommodate those unable to attend either pre-conference tour, Ruth has agreed to do a third tour of on Sunday following the conclusion of the Conference.

The Cemetery is located just a couple of blocks from the Convention Center at the corner of Gold and Main Streets, behind the Center Church (First Church of Christ, UCC). Tours will gather at the front gate of the cemetery near the statue of Rev. Stone. Maps, directions, and information about volunteer escorts to the cemetery will be available at the Hospitality table Wednesday (at the Marriott) and Thursday (at the Convention Center).

Those interested in these tours should email Ruth at shapbrown@cox.net (please insert NERGC Cem. Tour on the subject line) indicating which tour they wish to join. Or, for the Sunday tour, stop by Booth #8 in the Exhibit Hall to sign up. Ruth’s knowledge and expertise should not be missed. For more information about the Ancient Burying Ground see www.theancientburyingground.org.

For those needing to drive or wanting to visit the Burying Ground on their own, there is limited metered 2-hour parking on both sides of Gold St. from 8:00 A.M. – 6:00 P.M. Nickel – 2 minutes. Dime – 4 minutes. Quarter – 10 minutes.

ARE YOU ATTENDING NERGC 2007?

2007-04-21T10:23:00.001-04:00

Complete your New England CONNECTions by networking through volunteering.

There is a job for everyone. NERGC is known for quality conferences with low registration fees. In order to keep costs down, increase the services and supports for participants, and to be a warm and welcoming conference, volunteers play a big role. Want to know more about it? Contact Pam Roberts, pamela.roberts@uconn.edu , for all tasks except Ancestor Road Show Support Team, where you should contact Fred Hart at hartfc@aol.com. But don’t delay, the count down is on! There are only a few select opportunities left.

Even when you get to conference and see all the fun had by volunteers, go ahead and stop by the Volunteer Table to chat. There just may be a way for you to get in on the action!

Attention Conference VOLUNTEERS!

2007-04-21T10:22:00.000-04:00

Are you signed up to Volunteer? GREAT….

On arrival in Hartford please stop by the Volunteer Table located:
Wednesday in the Marriot Meeting Room Hallway near the Capitol Room
Thursday-Saturday in the “Town Square” Gathering Place on the Ballroom Level of the Convention Center.

Pick up your volunteer packet and check in. Packets will contain your personal volunteer schedule, general instructions, information and resources, specific instructions for tasks, VOLUNTEER IDENTIFICATION (which should be worn anytime you are on “assignment”) and a little thank you.

WI-FI AT THE CONFERENCE

2007-04-21T10:21:00.000-04:00

If you have a Wi-Fi equipped laptop or PDA, bring it along. There is free Wi-Fi Internet access available at Starbucks at the Marriott and at Seattle’s Best (formerly Starbucks) at the Convention Center.

In addition, thanks to Dick Eastman’s Online Genealogy Newsletter, you should be able to check your e-mail or perform other tasks on the Web from the Exhibitors' Hall. Dick writes:

“The wireless networking signal should be strongest near booths 55 and 56 although I expect it will cover the entire hall. Look for a wireless network that is broadcasting an SSID of "eogn." You should be able to connect and start using the Internet without entering any user name or password. This free network access is being provided by Eastman's Online Genealogy Newsletter.”

He adds, “The eogn network is shared so please use it wisely. I encourage you to use the wireless network to check your e-mail and similar tasks. However, please do not start downloading huge files or otherwise saturating the connection. If you are a vendor, please do not use it for customer-facing use but feel free to check your own e-mail whenever you wish. If the connection gets overloaded, I'll be forced to turn it off. If we all use it wisely, more people can benefit.”

For Dick Eastman’s entire blog entry about the conference, see
http://blog.eogn.com/eastmans_online_genealogy/2007/04/
nergc_2007.html

MORE FOOD OPTIONS IN THE AREA

2007-04-21T10:10:00.000-04:00

A Dunkin Donuts is located inside the Central Row Cafe, 20 Central Row.

Another Dunkin Donuts, 487 Main St. , is open daily from 5:00 A.M. – 7:00 P.M. and Saturday from 6:00 A.M. – 4:00 P.M. Closed Sunday.

Subway, also located at 487 Main St. , is open daily 8:00 A.M. – 9:00 P.M. and Saturday from 10:00 A.M. – 6:00 P.M. Closed Sunday.

Burger King, is at 811 Main St. (corner of Asylum).

The Cornerstone, 529 Main St. Delicatessen, Italian.

Cappucino’s, 427 Main St. , is open weekdays from 7:00 A.M. – 4:00 P.M. and Saturday from 8:00 A.M. – 3:00 P.M. It offers breakfast items, soups, and sandwiches.

Peppercorn’s Grill, 367 Main St., is an Italian restaurant open for Lunch Monday - Friday 11:30 A.M. - 4:00 P.M. and for Dinner Monday – Wednesday 4:00 P.M. – 10:00 P.M.; Thursday 4:00 P.M. – 11 P.M., and Friday & Saturday 4:00 P.M. – 12:00 A.M.

Emperor at the Linden, an upscale restaurant on the corner of Main St. and Capitol Ave., with the entrance at 2 Capitol Ave. , is open for lunch 11:30 A.M. – 2:30 P.M. Monday – Friday and dinner 5:00 P.M. – 11:00 P.M.

WHAT’S FOR BREAKFAST?

2007-04-21T10:09:00.000-04:00

Here are some food options for those not signed up for the Conference’s luncheons and banquets. Here are some breakfast options.

ALL Conference attendees staying at the Marriott will receive a Discount Breakfast Coupon when they register and for each day they are staying at the hotel. It will save six dollars on the buffet breakfast in the hotel restaurant. With the coupon, the buffet is $12.00 person – fast, complete, and a reasonable price. For those without a coupon, the buffet will be available at the regular price of $18.

The Marriott also features a Starbucks. The former Starbucks at the Convention Center recently was converted to a Seattle’s Best.

UPS SHIPPING AVAILABLE AT CONFERENCE

2007-04-21T10:06:00.002-04:00

REMINDER FOR SOCIETY FAIR ORGANIZATIONS

2007-04-21T10:06:00.001-04:00

Society Fair move-in time is scheduled from 3:00 P.M. - 4:30 P.M. Societies needing to use the loading dock should plan to bring materials in through the dock area between 3:00 and 4:00, the same time as the single-booth Exhibitors, as that is when the dock and elevator will be available. Materials may also be brought through the Convention Center on small 2-wheel airport-style luggage carriers but not on large 4-wheel dollies, etc. Please bring a table cloth or something to cover your materials between the time you finish your setup and shortly before 5:00. The Society Fair will run from 5:00 to 7:00, and break-down is scheduled from 7:00 P.M. – 7:30 P.M.

FOR EXHIBITORS PLANNING BOOK SIGNINGS

2007-04-21T09:56:00.002-04:00

If you're an exhibitor or author of a book and have plans for book signings during the conference, please email Jimholms@cs.com with time, book title, and author. Table 1 in the Exhibit Hall has been set aside for book signings, and we’ll be publicizing the schedule during the Conference

REMINDERS FOR EXHIBITORS

2007-04-21T09:56:00.001-04:00

Move-in time for exhibitors with multiple booths is Thursday from 1:00 P.M. – 3:00 P.M. Move-in time for exhibitors with single booths is Thursday from 3:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M.

All exhibitors selling materials much have a valid Connecticut sales tax number before making any sales, regardless of the number of sales that may be made or the amount of tax that will be collected. Connecticut does not issue temporary permits to vendors.

The Sales and Use Tax Permit must be prominently displayed at your booth during the show. For further information, see the Department of Revenue Services Web page, which describes the tax requirements and provides options for registering, including registering online or contact the Department at 800-382-9463.

REMINDER ABOUT THE FAMILY PHOTOS WORKSHOP

2007-04-21T09:55:00.000-04:00

If you are registered for "Identifying and Preserving Family Photographs" with Maureen Taylor and David Mishkin (Session F-218, 1:45 P.M. – 3:45 P.M. on Friday), please remember to bring with you any photograph you would like to discus and/or any questions you have about any of your photographs.

SOME BOOKS BY CONFERENCE SPEAKERS

2007-04-21T09:51:00.000-04:00

Diane Rapaport’s first book, New England Court Records: A Research Guide for Genealogists and Historians, was published February 2006 by Quill Pen Press. Her next book, The Naked Quaker: True Crimes and Controversies from the Courts of Colonial New England, will be published in November by Commonwealth Editions.

At New England CONNECTions, Diane will speak on "Tales from the Courthouse in Colonial New England" on April 27, 3:15 pm, and on April 28 she speaks on "Law Library Resources for Genealogists" at 1:45 pm. In addition on April 26 Diane hosts a “Special Interest Group” about Scottish research 7:30 – 9:00 pm.

On 2 July 1663, Elizabeth Seger (sic. ) was indicted for having “entertained familiarity wth Sathan the Grand enemie of God”, and for having “Comitted adultery & hast spoken Blasphemy against God”. In 1679, Samuel Burr brought an action against Martin Moore or slandering “his the Sd Burrs wife in saying she was a witch or words to that effect.” These are among the hundreds of cases transcribed and indexed by Helen Schatvet Ullmann in Hartford County, Connecticut, County Court Minutes Volumes 3 and 4, 1663-1687, 1697.

The book’s index includes subjects such as Card playing, Divorce, Fornication, Lascicious practices, Nightwalking, and Quarreling. Helen will present a lecture "Early Connecticut Court Records Illustrated: Locate Relationships and Local Color in Session" F-217, Friday from 1:45-2:45 P.M.

Vicki S. Welsh’s new book, And They Were Related, Too , traces the ancestry and relates the legacy of Native American slave Cuff Congdon or Condol and his brood, a family of inter-ethnic ancestry whose modern-day representatives are spread across Connecticut, New York and Ohio.

Not merely a scientific presentation of an obscure family tree, the book also chronicles the family’s fight for liberty, citizenship, and respect through centuries amidst the ever-changing face of America. Vicki invites you to discuss Native and African American Genealogy in New England at a Special Interest Group Thursday evening. Bring your Native and African American research problems to discuss and get help with finding sources to pursue the facts of their lives.

FOCUS ON THE ETHNIC TRACK

2007-04-21T09:50:00.000-04:00

New England CONNECTions will provide many opportunities for you to discover more about your ancestors who moved to New England, including the following lecture sessions:

General
Janis P. Duffy, A Journey Through Time: Finding Your Ancestral Home (T-104), Thurs. 1:30 P.M. – 2:30 P.M.

African Americans and Native Americans
Eric G. Grundset, African American and American Indian Patriots of the Revolutionary War from New England S-310, 10:00 A.M. – 11:00 A.M.

Walter V. Hickey, African-American Research: Records of the Freedman’s Bureau 1865-1872 F-205, 8:30 A.M. – 9:30 A.M.

Asian
Edward Isamu Shibata, Ph.D. An Asian-American’s Journey into Asian Genealogy, T-115, 4:00 P.M. -5:00 P.M.

English
Henry B. Hoff, CG, FASG Methods for Identifying the English Origins of American Colonists. F-209, 10:00 A.M. – 11:00 A.M.

Kathryn Smith Black, Using the British Census, S-317, 1:45 P.M. – 2:45 P.M.

French Canadian
Patty Vigeant Locke, How to Begin to Research Your French Canadian Family, T-109, 2:45 P.M. -3:45 P.M.

Michael J. Leclerk, The Goldmine in Quebec’s Notarial Records, F-104, 8:30 A.M. – 9:30 A.M.

Irish
Donna M. Moughty, Applying for Your Irish Passport: An Introduction to Irish Records S-304, 8:30 A.M. – 9:30 A.M.

Donna M. Moughty, From Rubble and Ruin: Locating Famine Immigrants S-323, 3:15 P.M. – 4:15 P.M.

Dennis J. Ahern, Researching Genealogy in Irish Newspapers, F-221, 3:15 P.M. – 4:15 P.M.

Vincent E. Feeney, The Forgotten Irish of Nineteenth Century Vermont, F-225, 3:15 P.M. – 4:15 P.M.

Palatine
Henry Z “Hank” Jones, Jr. Tracing the Origins of Early 18th Century Palatine & Other Emigrants. F-215, 1:45 P.M. – 2:45 P.M.

Poland, Lithuania, and Ukraine
Matthew Bielawa and Jonathan D. Shea, AG Exploring Your Eastern European Roots in New England and Europe, S-329, 4:45 P.M. – 5:45 P.M.

Russian
Allison L. Ryall, Russian Family Research: Basic Tips and Tricks to Locate Them in American Sources. F-226, 4:45 P.M. – 5:45 P.M.

And don’t forget the Special Interest Groups Thursday evening beginning at 7:30 P.M. They include French Canadian Genealogy with Patti Locke, German Research with Leslie Albrecht Huber, Irish Research with Donna Moughty, and Native and African American Research with Vicki S. Welch, and Scottish Research with Diane Rapaport.

Check out the Web page at http://www.nergc.org/2007/specialinterestgroups.htm to see all the Special Interest Groups already scheduled. Have an interest in a topic that’s not there? If you’d like to form your own group – Italian, Russian, Polish, Hispanic, -- it’s not too late. Contact Allison Ryall at allison@allisonryall.com.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

2007-04-21T09:47:00.000-04:00

CONNECT TO THE HOLOGRAMS OF YOUR ANCESTORS
Beau Sharbrough will kick off the conference with his vision of Genealogy in 2020 – A Report from the Future , predicting a time when you might get answers from the holograms of your ancestors. Later in the Conference, on Friday from 4:45 P.M. – 5:45 P.M., Beau will speak on Automation Research Assistants: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly as part of the Conference’s Technology track. Beau is a Houston native and received a Philosophy BA from Texas A&M in 1977. His programming career began in 1980. He is presently director of content acquisition at Footnote.com and maintains the RootsWorks.com website. Beau was a product manager at Ancestry.com, and is a former president of GENTECH. He writes regularly on technical topics in family history, with an occasional overdose of humor.

CONNECT TO A NEW TECHNIQUE
Irene P. Lambert, MGA , presents Flushing Out the Inner Character Using Graphoanalysis at Session S-320, Saturday from 1:45 P.M. – 2:45 P.M. Irene, a Master Graphoanalyst, has been analyzing handwriting, teaching, giving seminars, and writing articles since 1987. She has specialized in Genealogy Handwriting Analysis for the past ten years, assisting clients in understanding the personality of their ancestors through the analysis of their handwriting. Irene was named Graphoanalyst of the Year in 2005 by the International Graphoanalysis Society.

CONNECT TO PERSONALITIES FROM THE PAST
John McNiff will do a living history portrayal of Roger Williams (Session T-106, Thursday from 1:30 P.M. – 2:30). John was raised in Warwick, Rhode Island . After college he joined the National Park Service. Presently he is a ranger at the Roger Williams Memorial National Park . His presentations on various historical personalities have always been well-received and appreciated by those in attendance.

Kevin Johnson will be presenting a portrayal of “William Webb: An African-American Civil War Soldier Saturday, April 28 (Session S-330).

Reverend Adam Söderberg concludes the conference with Sunday Morning Special Session S-401, "'Sinners at the Hands of an Angry God': A Portrayal of Reverend Jonathan Edwards."

PROGRAM CHANGES

2007-04-21T09:46:00.000-04:00

The workshop Locating Digitized Images Online with Laura G. Prescott (S-301) has been cancelled, due to an insufficient number of registrants. Refunds will be issued to those who had signed up.

Elissa Scalise Powell, CG will now be speaking at session F-213 on Friday from 1:45 - 2:45 PM. Her lecture is entitled "Eating an Elephant: Organizing Large Projects.” Facing a large project is not so intimidating with good planning, the right tools, and thoughtful analysis. Organizational tips for paper and computer will also be discussed. Elissa will be filling in for Christine Sweet-Hart, CG who is unable to attend the conference due to personal reasons.

Christine’s Special Interest Group on newsletters/memory books scheduled for Thursday evening has been cancelled.

The Lady Katharine cruise mentioned in previous posts and E-Zine 14 will not take place.

CONNECT AT THE SOCIALS

2007-04-21T09:45:00.000-04:00

The cash bars scheduled during regular conference activities Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings will be extended from 9:00 P.M. – 11:00 P.M. through the courtesy of several Participating Societies.

Thursday’s social will begin at 5:00 P.M. as part of the Exhibit Hall opening and the Society Fair and will continue through the Special Interest Group meetings, concluding with the social by the Central Massachusetts Genealogical Society from 9:00 P.M. – 11:00 P.M.

The Friday and Saturday socials will start with as a pre-dinner event at 6:00 P.M. and after the banquet will go from 9:00 P.M. to 11:00 P.M. The Cape Cod Genealogical Society will host the after dinner social Friday night, and Saturday’s after dinner social will be co-sponsored by the Connecticut Professional Genealogists Council, Inc. and the Connecticut Society of Genealogists, Inc.

Buy some drinks at the cash bar and relax, meet, network and CONNECT with your fellow genealogists as we celebrate the end of each day in the common area of the Conference Center.

ANCESTORS ROAD SHOW HOURS ANNOUNCED

2007-04-21T09:44:00.002-04:00

If you're looking for help with a sticky research problem or for a foothold on resources in a new geographical area, or with almost any genealogical question at all, the Ancestors Road Show at the Hartford Conference might be just what you need. The Road Show is one of the many benefits of your Conference participation (see page 3 of the Registration Brochure ) and will be open in the rear of the Exhibit Hall from 9:00 A.M. -12:00 noon and from 1:45 P.M. -4:45 P.M. on both Friday and Saturday for advance registration and walk-in appointments as available.

Advance registration for Road Show consultations will also be held on Thursday afternoon from 1:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M. at our “Town Square” Gathering Place on the Ballroom Level of the Convention Center, not far from the main Conference registration booths.

AN ALTERNATIVE TO A HOTEL

2007-04-21T09:44:00.001-04:00

An E-zine reader writes, “I don't know if it's too late to mention, but for anyone who can't afford a hotel, there is a youth hostel in Hartford. It's part of the Hostelling International USA network. A bed for a member is something like $23 a night and for non-members a few dollars more. I'm booked in there myself as I have been a member for forty years and always stay in hostels when I am on a research trip.

See http://hiusa.org and select CONNECTICUT and the Hartford from the menu options. The hostel is a couple of miles from the conference center.”

HOTEL UPDATE

2007-04-21T09:43:00.002-04:00

Some rooms at the Marriott are available but not at conference discounts. Other hotels mentioned in E zines 11 and 12 and are located in and around Hartford.

A NOTE ON PROGRAM LOCATIONS

2007-04-21T09:43:00.001-04:00

Librarians Day, Workshops, and Sunday morning’s Special Session S-401, "'Sinners at the Hands of an Angry God': A Portrayal of Reverend Jonathan Edwards," will be held IN THE CAPITOL ROOM OF THE MARRIOTT.

Lectures, the Exhibit Hall, the Ancestors Road Show, and the Society Fair will be held on the “Ballroom Level” of the adjacent Connecticut Convention Center.

Thursday’s Special Interest Groups will be held in the Convention Center Meeting Rooms and in Marriot Conference Rooms.

WHEN AND WHERE TO PICK UP REGISTRATION MATERIALS

2007-04-21T09:42:00.000-04:00

Those pre-registered for Librarians Day should check in for Librarians Day only between 8:45 A.M. – 9:30 A.M. at the registration table just outside the Marriott’s Capital Room.

On Wednesday, those pre-registered for the Conference (including Librarians so registered) may pick up registration materials between 3:00 P.M. - 7:00 P.M. at registration tables near the Marriott’s Capital Room.

On Thursday, those pre-registered for Session T-101, Family History 101 Workshop, may pick up registration materials between 7:00 A.M. - 9:00 A.M. at registration tables near the Marriott’s Capital Room.

Full registration activities, including walk-in registration, begin Thursday at 10:00 A.M. in our “Town Square” Gathering Place on the Ballroom Level of the Connecticut Convention Center. The schedule is:

Thursday: 10:00 A.M. - 6:30 P.M.
Friday: 7:15 A.M. - 6:00 P.M.
Saturday: 7:15 A.M. - 1:30 P.M

COMMUTER PARKING LOTS

2007-04-21T09:39:00.002-04:00

Parking opportunities away from Hartford for NERGC attendees on a day-by-day basis abound in Connecticut. The Connecticut Department of Transportation (DOT) has a system of 185 lots throughout the state.The Connecticut Department of Transportation’s Web page, www.ct.gov/dot , includes a Guide to Connecticut Park and Ride Locations at http://www.ct.gov/dot/cwp/view.asp?a=1390&Q=259406 .

It seems a little awkward to work with, but is worth your while if this topic interests you. It includes a list of all 185 lots in Connecticut, alphabetical by town, a description as to type of each lot and its connecting services, and interactive maps. While some overnight parking is permitted, "long-term" is not (they do not specify their meaning of long-term) and certain vehicles are not permitted in the lot.The DOT Web page also includes links to Express Bus Service, http://www.ct.gov/dot/cwp/view.asp?a=1390&q=305320 and Local Bus Service, http://www.ct.gov/dot/cwp/view.asp?a=1390&q=305318 .

Contact the State Department of Transportation (2800 Berlin Turnpike, Newington CT) at 860-594-2141 for additional information, including bus fares and your "landing place" in Hartford, in relation to the Convention Center (you may have to tie in with the free Star Shuttle in downtown Hartford).And another reminder that the "Star Shuttle", a free bus that connects several points within the city, runs every 12 minutes, from 7am to 11pm. This provides ready access from NERGC conference area to nearly all of the highlights in town, without moving your car or trying to hail a cab.

GETTING TO THE HOTEL/CONVENTION CENTER FROM THE GARAGE

2007-04-21T09:39:00.001-04:00

If there’s space, a good place to park is on Level 1 (Purple) of the garage. Otherwise, park anywhere, follow the signs to the nearest elevator, and take the elevator to Level 1. Follow the signs to “HOTEL AND CONVENTION CENTER”. The first set of doors you come to (on the left) takes you into a Convention Center foyer.

To get to the Conference functions at the Convention Center, follow signs for “Ballroom” and/or “Meeting Rooms” and take the escalators or elevator to the Ballroom Level.

To get to the hotel, bear to the right, following signs to the Marriott.

The Convention Center’s main lobby is accessible from Level P1 of the parking garage. Level P5 of the garage tower provides an alternate entrance, along an outdoor walkway, to the Convention Center’s riverside entrance.

STILL MORE ON THE HOTEL/CONVENTION CENTER GARAGE

2007-04-21T09:38:00.000-04:00

Driving directions to the Conference are included on page 2 of the Registration Brochure, http://www.nergc.org/2007/program/page2.htm, and additional information was provided in E-zine 15. Here’s some updated/revised information.

Note that one parking garage services both the Connecticut Convention Center and the Hartford Marriott Downtown and that it has two entrances.

HOTEL PARKING
If you’re registered at the Marriott, note that there are two entrances to the hotel lobby, each with its own vehicle “circle”. Check-in time is 4:00 P.M., but if you’re arriving earlier, pull into either of these areas and ask that your bags be held for you until your room is available.

The Grove Street Entrance is closest to the Marriott, to the LEFT of the hotel, and is the best option if you’re a hotel guest. However, it’s not well marked.

If you’re coming over the Founders Bridge, get into the left lane. Turn LEFT onto Columbus Boulevard and stay in the left lane. (You’ll see construction of the new Science Center on the left.) At the stoplight turn LEFT onto Grove St. There is currently no street sign identifying the name of the street, but follow the signs for I-91 North and I-84 West (on the right side of the street) and/or the small signs that say “Parking” and “UPS Store” (on the left side of the street). After the turn, be sure you’re in the right lane.

If you’re coming from the Whitehead Highway, via I-91 North or South, follow Columbus Boulevard past the Convention Center. You then have two options. Between the main parking entrance and Grove Street is a small circular pull-in area for hotel valet parking and an entrance into the hotel’s main lobby.

Or, drive past the Marriott (on your right). Just past the hotel, but not marked, is Grove St. (watch for the “Parking” and “UPS Store” signs). Take a RIGHT onto Grove St.

On Grove St. , at the light, turn RIGHT, following the “Parking” and “UPS Store” signs. You’ll quickly come to the back entrance to the Marriott on your right, where there’s space to pull over and unload bags and/or arrange for valet parking. A revolving door takes you into the hotel’s main lobby.

For self-parking, continue straight ahead and into the parking garage (which has a sign, “Connecticut Convention Center”).

CONVENTION CENTER PARKING FOR OTHER ATTENDEES
If you’re not staying at the Marriott, look for the main entrance to the parking garage, the COLUMBUS BOULEVARD ENTRANCE, (which is near the large Connecticut Convention Center animated sign, to the RIGHT of the hotel). Proceed up the ramp to the ticket gate.

CONFERENCE PARKING OPTIONS

2007-04-21T09:37:00.001-04:00

The most convenient parking for the Conference is in the parking garage shared by the Convention Center Convention Center and the Marriott Hartford Downtown.

Hotel Parking Rates
Self-park: $ 3.00 hourly or $18.00 daily
Valet parking: $20.00 daily
Note that valet parking allows you in-out privileges and that in some cases it may be a cheaper option overall than exiting and re-entering under the hourly rate.
Parking fees may be added to your hotel bill.

Connecticut Convention Center Parking Rates
$3.00 first hour
$2.00 each additional hour
$19.00 Daily Maximum
$10.00 early bird special (in before 8:00 AM, out before 6:00 PM)

Alternative Parking
The City of Hartford owns other parking facilities in the area, including parking garages on Morgan Street or Constitution Plaza to the north that are cheaper but less convenient. The Hartford Parking Authority Web page includes a map showing locations of many parking facilities.

And another reminder that the “Star Shuttle ”, a free bus that connects several points within the city, runs every 12 minutes, from 7:00 A.M. to 11:00 P.M. This provides ready access from NERGC conference area to nearly all of the highlights in town, without moving your car or trying to hail a cab.

PRE-REGISTRATION IS OVER, BUT WALK-INS ARE WELCOME

2007-04-21T09:32:00.000-04:00

Pre-registration for New England CONNECTions has closed, but even if you didn’t pre-register, it’s not too late to join us for most parts of the conference.

Walk-in registrations for lectures (but not meals, workshops, or registrations for Librarians Day) will be available at the Conference (full conference $125 or single day $85). And remember that the Exhibit Hall and many Thursday evening activities including the Society Fair and Special Interest Groups are open to the public without charge!

PROGRAM CHANGE FOR SESSION F-213 ON FRIDAY

2007-04-11T14:17:00.000-04:00

Elissa Scalise Powell, CG, will now be speaking at session F-213 on Friday from 1:45 - 2:45 PM.

Her lecture is entitled "Eating an Elephant: Organizing Large Projects." Facing a large project is not so intimidating with good planning, the right tools, and thoughtful analysis. Organizational
tips for paper and computer will also be discussed. Elissa will be filling in for Christine Sweet-Hart, CG who is unable to attend the conference due to personal reasons.

MAINE GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY ANNOUNCES 2007 CONFERENCE

2007-04-11T14:16:00.000-04:00

"Footprints in Time: Discovering Your Ancestors’ Lives" will be held on Saturday, September 22, 2007, at the Bangor Civic Center, Bangor, Maine.

This one-day conference features nationally-acclaimed speakers: author and "Genealogy Guys" podcaster George G. Morgan and photo expert Maureen A. Taylor. The day includes a wide variety of sessions for all levels of experience, as well as a research room with a wide variety of resources. For all the details, check out the conference website at www.maineroots.org or stop by Booth 20 and pick up a brochure at Maine Genealogical Society’s table in the Exhibit Hall.

STILL MORE ON WHAT TO DO AND WHERE

2007-04-11T14:14:00.002-04:00

For a "what to do, and where" during your non-conference hours, please visit the web site of GREATER HARTFORD CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU (GHCVB). Here you will also find opportunities for exploration by those who are in Hartford with you, yet not attending the conference. Their Web site has a myriad of things to consider.

See: http://www.enjoyhartford.com/index.cfm

A CELEBRATION AT THE OLIVER ELLSWORTH HOMESTEAD APRIL 29

2007-04-11T14:14:00.001-04:00

The Abigail Wolcott Ellsworth Chapter, NSDAR invites you to visit the home of one of Windsor’s notable 18th century sons, Oliver Ellsworth and his wife Abigail Wolcott.

Elmwood, built for Ellsworth by Samuel Denslow and later expanded by Thomas Hayden, has furnishings from the Ellsworth and Wolcott families as well as wonderful antiques period to Oliver’s life there.

Located at 778 Palisado Avenue in Windsor, Connecticut, it will be open on Sunday, April 29, 2007 to celebrate the 262nd anniversary of Oliver Ellsworth’s birth. Tours, special exhibits, and refreshments will be available from 10:00 A.M. until 3:00 P.M. All are welcome to celebrate the life of this remarkable American. For additional information and directions, stop by the CT DAR booth, Booth 6, in the Exhibit Hall.

OPEN HOUSE AT WINDSOR HISTORICAL SOCIETY APRIL 29

2007-04-11T14:13:00.000-04:00

The Windsor Historical Society will hold a special Open House on Sunday April 29, 2007 from 1 until 4 pm. The Society is particularly inviting the attendees of the NERGC Conference to visit and become acquainted with the resources in the research library.

The collections include books, manuscript collections, cemetery records, regional and state histories, town reports, local newspapers, school yearbooks, city directories, and maps which relate to the town of Windsor and its people.

Visit Connecticut’s oldest English settlement, tour two historic homes, and explore the exhibition gallery.

The Windsor Historical Society, located at 96 Palisado Ave., Windsor, CT, preserves and interprets over 370 years of Windsor’s history. For more information and directions please visit the WHS website at http://windsorhistoricalsociety.org or stop by their table at the Society Fair between 5:00 and 7:00 on Thursday, April 26.

SPECIAL HOURS AT GODFREY LIBRARY IN MIDDLETOWN

2007-04-11T14:12:00.001-04:00

We are happy to inform you that Godfrey Memorial Library will also have extended hours for researchers! The library will be open from 9:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. on April 25, 26, and 27 and from 9:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. on April 28th. Please stop by and visit!

For more information about Godfrey, including directions, visit Booth 1 and 20 in the exhibit hall or go to www.godfrey.org

STATE LIBRARY ANNOUNCES SPECIAL HOURS

2007-04-11T14:11:00.001-04:00

For coming to Hartford early for the New England Regional Genealogical Conference (April 26-29 at the Connecticut Convention Center and the Marriott Hartford Downtown) and others wanting extra research time, the State Library’s History and Genealogy Unit will remain open until 8:00 P.M. on Wednesday, April 25th.

There will be an extra retrieval of archival and special collections material at 6:00 P.M. And to sustain researchers in their endeavors, light refreshments will be served from 5:30 -6:30 P.M. in Memorial Hall of the Museum of Connecticut History. For those not familiar with the History and Genealogy Unit, orientation tours will be held on the same day at 10:00 A.M. and 2:00 and 5:30 P.M.

The Library will be open regular hours Thursday and Friday, April 26th and 27th from 9:00 A.M. until 5:00 P.M. and on Saturday, April 28th from 9:00 A.M. until 2:00 P.M.

For more information about the History and Genealogy Unit’s resources and services, see the History and Genealogy Web page www.cslib.org/handg.htm and the State Library’s Research Resources page www.cslib.org/faq.htm

OTHER THINGS TO DO IN AND NEAR HARTFORD

2007-04-11T14:07:00.000-04:00

A visit to Connecticut would be incomplete without exploring the historic sites that it has to offer. To read about featured sites within walking distance of the Convention Center and Marriott Hotel, see the New England Regional Genealogical Conference E-zine at http://www.nergc.org

Here is a sampling of other institutions and activities you can "CONNECT" to in and near of Hartford.

STORYCORPS ORAL HISTORY PROJECT IS IN HARTFORD
At Hartford’s historic Old State House, just one block away from our conference site, you will find a most appropriate event being held. A nationwide oral history project called StoryCorps will be holding personal interviews where participants tell about important personal events in their lives April 5 through Saturday, April 28. You can be a part of America’s largest oral history project ever. Interview a relative, a co-worker, a mentor - and capture voices, memories, and stories. StoryCorps facilitators work with you to record your conversation for the Library of Congress and future generations, for public radio, and for yourself. Reservations are being accepted on a first come, first-serve basis starting March 22.

At the end of this project, all sessions will be archived and housed at the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress. For further details, please visit www.courant.com for the April 4th article, page D-1 (or search StoryCorps to see several recent articles). For booth hours and more information, go to http://www.wnpr.org/storycorps.asp

SIGHTSEEING TOUR COMPANY ALTERNATIVE
Besides the Connecticut River Cruise tentatively scheduled for Friday April 27 (See the last E-zine for details) NERGC visitors might be interested in a tour run by the Heritage Trails Sightseeing Tours Company. Each of their tours has a historical theme and folks with ancestors in the Hartford/Farmington area might find a tour a wonderful addition to their NERGC experience and family research activities. Those interested should visit the company website http://www.charteroaktree.com and make arrangements directly with them.

HARTFORD’S ANCIENT BURYING GROUND CEMETERY TOURS

2007-04-11T14:05:00.002-04:00

NERGC is pleased to announce that Ruth Shapleigh Brown, Executive Director of the Connecticut Gravestone Network, has generously offered to lead early NERGC attendees on two informal guided tours of Hartford’s Ancient Burying Ground!

This venerable cemetery is the oldest landmark left in Hartford. It is the center of where the first settlers gathered to plan their community, build their church and bury their dead. A connection with practically all colonial families that lived in or came to Connecticut can be found in the history of this oldest burial ground.

Ruth’s tour will acquaint you with some highlights of Hartford’s history, the people and their genealogies as well as introducing some of the colonial stone carvers. If you are wondering why there are no gravestones for people who died in 1632, you need to join one of the tours!

The first tour will be on Wednesday, April 25 at 4:30 P.M., just after the Librarian’s Day closes, the second on Thursday, April 26 at 10:00 A.M. The Cemetery is located just a couple of blocks from the Convention Center at the corner of Gold and Main Streets. Tours will gather at the front gate of the cemetery near the statue of Rev. Stone.

Maps and directions will be available at the Hospitality table Wednesday (at the Marriott) and Thursday (at the Convention Center).

Persons interested in these tours should email Ruth at shapbrown@cox.net (please insert NERGC Cem. Tour on the subject line) indicating which tour they wish to join. Ruth’s knowledge and expertise should not be missed.

For more information about the Ancient Burying Ground (Gold Street and Main Street) see www.theancientburyingground.org

TRAVEL ALERT FOR THOSE FROM OUTSIDE THE U.S.

2007-04-11T14:05:00.001-04:00

Don’t get stuck halfway to NERGC! Conference attendees traveling by air to/from United States to attend NERGC are advised to double check what documentation they must carry to be admitted into U.S. under the new passport regulations, effective 23 January 2007.

Please check with your travel agent, or the U. S. Dept. of State.

HOSPITALITY LOOKS AT COMMUTER PARKING LOTS IN CONNECTICUT

2007-04-11T14:01:00.000-04:00

Parking opportunities away from Hartford for NERGC attendees on a day-by-day basis abound in Connecticut. The Connecticut Department of Transportation (DOT) has a system of 185 lots throughout the state.

The Connecticut Department of Transportation’s Web page, www.ct.gov/dot , includes a Guide to Connecticut Park and Ride Locations at http://www.ct.gov/dot/cwp/view.asp?a=1390&Q=259406 . It seems a little awkward to work with, but is worth your while if this topic interests you. It includes a list of all 185 lots in Connecticut, alphabetical by town, a description as to type of each lot and its connecting services, and interactive maps. While some overnight parking is permitted, "long-term" is not (they do not specify their meaning of long-term) and certain vehicles are not permitted in the lot.

The DOT Web page also includes links to Express Bus Service, http://www.ct.gov/dot/cwp/view.asp?a=1390&q=305320 and Local Bus Service, http://www.ct.gov/dot/cwp/view.asp?a=1390&q=305318 . Contact the State Department of Transportation (2800 Berlin Turnpike, Newington CT) at 860-594-2141 for additional information, including bus fares and your "landing place" in Hartford, in relation to the Convention Center (you may have to tie in with the free Star Shuttle in downtown Hartford).

And another reminder that the "Star Shuttle", a free bus that connects several points within the city, runs every 12 minutes, from 7am to 11pm. This provides ready access from NERGC conference area to nearly all of the highlights in town, without moving your car or trying to hail a cab.

MORE ON THE HOTEL/CONVENTION CENTER GARAGE

2007-04-11T11:56:00.000-04:00

Driving directions to the Conference are included on page 2 of the Registration Brochure, http://www.nergc.org/2007/program/page2.htm , and parking options were included in the New England Regional Genealogical Conference E-zine 14. See: http://www.nergc.org

Note that one parking garage services both the Connecticut Convention Center and the Hartford Marriott Downtown and that it has two entrances.

The GROVE STREET ENTRANCE is closest to the Marriott, to the LEFT of the hotel. If you’re registered at the Marriott, you can pull into the hotel registration area before proceeding to the garage. Check-in time is 4:00 P.M., but if you’re arriving earlier, you can ask that bags be held for you until your room is available. After dropping off any bags, proceed to ticket gate and follow signs to the hotel end of the parking garage.

If you’re not staying at the Marriott, look for the main entrance to the parking garage, the COLUMBUS BOULEVARD ENTRANCE, (which is to the RIGHT of the hotel). Proceed up the ramp to the ticket gate.

The Convention Center’s main lobby is accessible from Level P1 of the parking garage. Level P5 of the garage tower provides an alternate entrance, along an outdoor walkway, to the Convention Center’s riverside entrance.

DO YOU WANT TO HELP?

2007-04-11T11:55:00.002-04:00

There are still some unmet needs for volunteers! But it is not too late for you to help us fill those needs. The tasks are well defined, with easy directions: some involve sitting, some involve standing, and some involve walking to guide others or to deliver or collect things. Take a break, sit a spell, or fit into your schedule a walking break.

Contact Pam Roberts (Pamela.roberts@uconn.edu ) for up to date information about ways you could help with general volunteering tasks or contact Fred Hart (hartfc@aol.com ) to inquire about existing volunteer needs for the Ancestors Road Show.

ATTENTION PRE-SCHEDULED VOLUNTEERS

2007-04-11T11:55:00.001-04:00

Are you one of the more than one hundred volunteers scheduled to help make NERGC 2007 the best conference yet? Don’t forget to stop by the Volunteer Welcoming Table on Wednesday, located in the Marriott Meeting Room hallway outside of the Capital 1, 2, and 3 space, and on Thursday through Saturday on the "balcony" pre-function area outside the Exhibit Hall on the Convention Center’s Ballroom Level.

Pick up your volunteer packet with all the information needed to make your volunteer time fun and easy. As conference time nears, don’t hesitate to contact Pam Roberts, Volunteer Committee, Pamela.roberts@uconn.edu or 860 429-8751 (evening best) with questions or concerns.

NERGC VOLUNTEERS: A TRADITION OF “HELPING”

2007-04-11T11:54:00.001-04:00

Every one of the participants at NERGC 2007 in Hartford is likely to interact at some point with one of the over one hundred volunteers scheduled to assist. Volunteers will point the way to rooms, getting you going in the right direction, greet you at luncheons and banquets, help you mix and network during socials, host sessions including introducing speakers, encourage your participation in session and conference evaluations, get you efficiently through registration, help you with local resources, answer your questions, and assist you in multiple ways.

So, watch for the NERGC 2007 Volunteers - we’ll be there to help you!

UPS SHIPPING AVAILABLE AT CONFERENCE

2007-04-11T11:53:00.000-04:00

DON’T HAVE TIME FOR THE ENTIRE CONFERENCE?

2007-04-11T11:52:00.000-04:00

If you (or a friend) don’t have time for the entire conference ($125), single day registrations are available at $85 per day.

Also, while admission to most conference activities requires a fee, some activities will be open to the general public without charge. On Thursday, April 26 from 5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M., there will be a "Society Fair" showcasing genealogical and historical organizations from all over New England will provide information about their organizations. Participating societies include the Middlesex Genealogical Society of Darien, the Jewish Genealogical Society of Connecticut, and the Naugatuck Valley Genealogy Club among many others.

Open Thursday, April 26 from 6:00 to 7:00 P.M. and on Friday, April 27 and Saturday, April 28 from 8:20 A.M. until 5:00, the Exhibit Hall will be open to the public without charge. Exhibitors from across the U.S. and Canada will offer a wide array of genealogical products and services. Folks will be able to purchase books and resources, chat with exhibitors, including the Connecticut Ancestry Society, with expertise they’re willing to share, and find out more about genealogical and lineage societies. To see a floor plan of the Exhibit Hall and a complete list of exhibitors, go to: http://www.nergc.org/2007/exhibithall.htm

CONFERENCE FINISHERS: SATURDAY NIGHT & SUNDAY MORNING

2007-04-11T11:51:00.000-04:00

If you're not already signed up, please note: there is still room at the Connecticut Society of Genealogists’ Banquet on Saturday evening, with Henry "Hank" Jones as our speaker.

At the 9:00 A.M. program Sunday morning, the Rev. Adam Söderberg portrays Rev. Jonathan Edwards during the 1700's Great Awakening period in New England.

Staying for these "conference finishers" allows you to begin your return home in the daylight hours, having completed the full conference program. As is normal, please contact NERGC Registration for the Banquet, and your choice of hotels directly for your room.

LIBRARIANS’ DAY

2007-04-11T11:50:00.000-04:00

There is still room in our special pre-conference program for librarians, library trustees, and friends of libraries on Wednesday, 25 April 2007, at the Hartford Marriott Downtown. The cost is $35 and includes lunch compliments of ProQuest Information and Learning.

See the schedule at http://nergc.org/2007/librariansday.htm for additional information.

HANDS-ON WORKSHOPS TO IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS

2007-04-11T11:46:00.000-04:00

In addition to the lecture sessions, a variety of special workshops are being offered at the Conference. Each workshop is 2-3 hours in length and requires an additional fee. Please read the descriptions to understand additional requirements. Workshop space is limited. Make your choices on the NERGC registration form.

Family History 101
On Thursday, April 26, Marcia Melnyk will present Family History 101, a Beginner’s Primer to Genealogy. After outlining ways to get started, she’ll provide information on recording data, separating fact from fiction, and accessing places to locate records. Cost of the workshop is $35 and includes a copy of Marcia’s book, Family History 101.

Hands-On Workshops to Take Your Computer Skills to the Next Level
Digital images, whether of photographs or documents, are increasingly useful and important to compiling and preserving any family history. Two workshops planned for this NERGC conference should help a wide range of computer-using genealogists take their skills to the next level.

Capturing images worthy of archiving is the first step in the process. The first of these, Working with Digital Images from Scanning and Storing to Basic Editing by Emery Roth on Thursday afternoon from 3:00 P.M. - 5:00 P.M. (Session T-113, $30) is designed to demystify issues related to resolution, file format, and the scanning process so that participants will be certain that the images they capture today will be useful for their needs tomorrow. Participants will work with their own images and scanners so light and portable that they can easily become part of every researcher's travel kit when they visit libraries or relatives' homes. After learning how to get the most from these scanners, participants will take their scanned images into Photoshop Elements for a bit of basic image editing. Finally, they will learn about several software programs designed to help in organizing and cataloging images.

Once captured, there is much one can do to enhance the quality of old (or new) images. The second workshop Enhancing and Repairing Digital Images in Photoshop Elements, presents Enhancing and Repairing Digital Images in Photoshop Elements on Friday morning from 8:00 A.M. - 11:00 A.M. (Session F-201, $35). This is designed to get you started in Photoshop Elements or to take basic Photoshop skills to the next level. Do you have old photographs that have become badly faded? Are some of your images disfigured by scratches, tears, folds, or mold? Do you have old metal images or daguerreotypes with tones that look unnatural? Is there an insignia, locket, or other detail in an image that you want to see more clearly? Are those 1950s color photos looking a little too yellow? Photoshop Elements is a powerful tool that can draw more out of an old photo than you knew was there, and it can enable you to make repairs that you might previously paid hundreds of dollars to have a professional do. You will practice using a wide range of Photoshop tools of special value for genealogists. Those who are already using Photoshop but have not yet worked with "levels" will appreciate the flexibility and control offered by this valuable feature of the software. Those who are new to Photoshop may benefit from the two-day experience of taking both workshops.

Participants must bring their own USB equipped laptop with CD drive and with a copy of Photoshop Elements installed. Though the conference program calls for participants to have Photoshop Elements version 4, Photoshop Elements version 5 will also work.

Identifying and Preserving Family Photographs
David Mishkin and Maureen Taylor's Photography Workshop Identifying and Preserving Family Photographs (Friday afternoon 27 April from 1:45-3:45 PM) is limited to 30 participants and is filling quickly. Learn to identify family photographs by researching photographers, dating costume clues, and comparing facial characteristics. Cost of the workshop is $30.

MORE CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS

2007-04-11T11:45:00.000-04:00

New England CONNECTions features something for everyone, with eight separate lecture tracks available during the Conference:

o Ethnic Genealogy
o Federal Records at the National Archives
o Genealogical Techniques
o New England Research
o Records & Sources
o Skills & Methodology
o Technology
o Writing & Documents

See the full conference brochure at http://www.nergc.org/2007/program2007.htm

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

2007-04-11T11:43:00.000-04:00

Patricia Law Hatcher, FASG, is a professional genealogist specializing in problem solving, whose articles have appeared in over a dozen publications. She is the editor of the New York Genealogical & Biographical Record, editor of The Pennsylvania Genealogical Magazine; and consulting or contributing editor to Newbury Street Press, The New England Historical and Genealogical Register, and the Maine Genealogist. Pat is the author of Researching Your Colonial New England Ancestor, Locating Your Roots: Discover Your Ancestors Using Land Records, and Producing a Quality Family History. She is a former trustee of the Association of Professional Genealogists and in 2000 was elected a Fellow of the American Society of Genealogists. A popular lecturer and instructor, she has spoken at many national conferences and institutes.

At New England CONNECTions, Pat will do presentations on Friday morning, Session F-202 (8:30 A.M. - 9:30 A.M.), on The Language of Land and Saturday morning, Session S-309 (10:00 A.M. -11:00 A.M.), on Producing a Quality Family History. At the Friday evening’s banquet, F-230, sponsored by the New England Historic Genealogical Society, she presents Pat Tells All: Who Did What for Whom, sharing the hidden secrets of genealogical successes.

HOTEL UPDATE

2007-04-11T11:39:00.000-04:00

Some rooms at the Marriott are available but not at conference discounts.
See: http://marriott.com/hotels/travel/bdldt-hartford-marriott-downtown/

Other hotels mentioned in New England Regional Genealogical Conference E-zines 11 and 12 are located in and around Hartford. See: http://www.nergc.org

CONFERENCE REGISTRATION UPDATE

2007-04-11T11:37:00.000-04:00

Registration Chair Mary Choppa reports that nearly 600 have already registered for New England CONNECTions, exclusive of speakers and exhibitors.

Although pre-registrations for the conference after 1 April are considered walk-ins, if you have yet to register, we anticipate no problems in registering for the conference, meals, or workshops if you act right away. However, it is possible you will not receive a printed syllabus, conference pin, or bag if you delay much longer. For registration information, go to http://www.nergc.org/2007/program2007.htm.

Also a reminder that cancellations postmarked before 10 April are subject to a $15.00 processing fee. No refunds are available after 10 April 2007.

Extended Hours at Godfrey Library!

2007-03-31T09:41:00.000-04:00

The Godfrey Memorial Library will be open from 9 AM to 8 PM on Wednesday, April 25, Thursday, April 26, and Friday, April 27; and on Saturday, April 28, from 9 AM to 1 PM.

More things to do in Hartford

2007-03-31T09:08:00.000-04:00

Guided tours of the Ancient Burying Ground will be offered for those attending the Conference. Meet inside the Main Gate: Thursday at 10AM, Sunday per RSVP. Wednesday hours to be announced.

Contact Ruth Shapleigh-Brown: shapbrown@cox.net

The Ancient Burying Ground, Gold Street and Main Street, Hartford.
Hartford's oldest historic site, and final resting place of many Founders. View gravestone art and history from the mid-1600's to the early 1800's. For more information see:
http://www.theancientburyingground.org

DOING GENEALOGICAL WORK IN CONNECTICUT: FACTS AND REALITIES

2007-03-23T00:02:00.000-04:00

In conjunction with your trip to Hartford for the Conference, you may find opportunities to visit repositories where a great many family records are located.

To get to vital records for the 19th century, think of the Connecticut State Library first. (http://www.cslib.org ) They have probate, land, church and vital records and much more for all of the towns in Connecticut. The Library is only a mile away from the hotel.

The Vital Records Office at the Connecticut Department of Public Health, 410 Capitol Ave., ( http://www.dph.state.ct.us/PB/HISR/Vital_Records.htm ) maintains a statewide registry of all births, marriages, civil unions, deaths and fetal deaths which have occurred in Connecticut since July 1, 1897.

The Hartford Bureau of Vital Statistics , in City Hall, is within walking distance of the hotel and Convention Center. (http://www.hartford.gov/health/vitalrecords/vitalrecs.htm )They do not do searches but will provide documents.

If you plan to go to cities or towns for 20th century vital records, only birth records access is restricted by law to members of one of the incorporated genealogical organizations listed on the Connecticut State Library website ( http://www.cslib.org/list.htm ). Several of these groups will be exhibitors at the Conference. However, note that even though the law does not require it, some Town Clerks expect a membership card from one of these organizations for ALL vital records access.

HARTFORD EATERIES AND NIGHTSPOTS FOR YOUR OFF-CONFERENCE HOURS PLEASURE

2007-03-23T00:00:00.000-04:00

There are Starbucks cafes in both the Convention Center and the Marriott. The Starbucks in the Marriott Lobby is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and offers gourmet coffees, a full pantry with retail shop, and wi-fi.

The Marriott is also home to Vivo, also open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and offering meals with an Italian & Mediterranean theme featuring fresh foods, open kitchen & Italian wine bar.

The Arch Street Tavern, 85 Arch Street, is open Monday - Thursday from 11:30 AM to 1 AM, Friday from noon to 2 AM, and Saturday from noon to 2 AM. Close to the Convention Center, it offers soups, salads, and sandwiches as well as a selected dinner menu.

There are a number of fast food restaurants, including Burger King, near the Old State House and a Museum Cafe at the Wadsworth Atheneum, 600 Main Street.

For a more detailed list of just about every restaurant in downtown Hartford and its wider area, please go to the NERGC web site , www.NERGC.org, where we will have posted the GHCVB’s “Hartford Dining and Entertainment Guide”.

We’ll also have copies at the Hospitality Area of the Conference, along with sample menus from several of the restaurants. Once you get to the Conference, your NERGC registration packet will contain many of the pamphlets and lists offered on the Bureau’s web site, one of which will be the full "Visitors Guide”.

MORE ON WHAT TO DO AND WHERE

2007-03-22T23:58:00.000-04:00

For a “what to do, and where” during your non-conference hours, please visit the web site of GREATER HARTFORD CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU (GHCVB).
(http://www.enjoyhartford.com ).

Here you will also find opportunities for exploration by those who are in Hartford with you, yet not attending the conference. Their web site has a myriad of things to consider. Please note that Hartford has a Convention Center - where NERGC is located - plus a Civic Center, which is across town. Just to the north of town is an Expo Center. Please be mindful of these various site names when reading maps and/or descriptions and coordinating your plans. Do pay particular attention to the “Star Shuttle ”, a free bus that connects several points within the city, and runs every 12 minutes, from 7am to 11pm. This provides ready access from NERGC conference area to nearly all of the highlights in town, without moving your car or trying to hail a cab.

CONSIDER A SCENIC CONNECTICUT RIVER CRUISE

2007-03-22T23:57:00.000-04:00

While at NERGC, you just might want to take a break from lectures and research. Why not enjoy a ride on the Lady Katharine for an all weather scenic cruise of the Connecticut River?

This narrated two hour cruise will take you south to Wethersfield Cove, where one of Connecticut ’s first settlements was established and then north under Hartford’s several historic bridges. The boat is fully enclosed and climate controlled for creature comfort!

The cruise will depart Riverfront Plaza , a short walk from the Convention Center, at 11:30 AM Friday, and will return in time for the 1:45 PM presentations. The cost for the cruise will not exceed $40.00 per person which includes a full buffet luncheon of assorted salads, wraps and desserts. A cash bar will also be available.

Check out the trip at www.ladykatecruises.com.

In order to arrange the charter, we need to know of your interest in the cruise. If you are registered for NERGC and you think you’d like to participate, please email Ralph Wadleigh at whplar@comcast.net by April 6 indicating your interest in this excursion. We need at least 60 people to sail. Once we have enough people to book the charter, we will ask you to reserve your ticket with a check!

THINGS TO DO IN HARTFORD

2007-03-22T23:49:00.000-04:00

A visit to Hartford would be incomplete without exploring the historic sites that it has to offer. Many of these sites are within walking distance of the Convention Center and Marriott Hotel. Visit famous people’s homes, government buildings from the Early Republic , ancient burying grounds, and art museums. The following list is a sample of what you can “CONNECT” to in Hartford.

Ancient Burying Ground, Gold Street and Main Street, Hartford
Hartford ’s oldest historic site, and final resting place of many Founders. View gravestone art and history from the mid 1600s to the early 1800s. ( http://www.theancientburyingground.org/ ).

Butler-McCook Home & Garden, Main Street, Hartford
This 1782 home contains a collection of original furnishings from the 18th and 19th centuries. A restored Victorian garden is behind the home. www.hartnet.org/als/alsprop.htm.

Christ Church Cathedral, Main and Church Streets, Hartford
Erected in 1828, one of the oldest Gothic churches in the United States. Beautifully restored.( http://www.ccathedral.org/ ).

HarrietBeecher Stowe Center, 77 Forest Street, Hartford
1871 Victorian cottage, home to the author of Uncle Tom’s Cabin. Includes Victorian gardens.( http://www.harrietbeecherstowe.org/ ).

Mark Twain House and Museum, 351 Farmington Avenue, Hartford
Built in 1873-74, the unusual 19 room Victorian Gothic home was occupied by Twain for 17 years. The mansion features designs by Tiffany, as well as elaborate stencil work and carved woodwork. ( http://www.marktwainhouse.org/ ).

OldState House, 800 Main Street, Hartford
Begin your visit to Hartford with a tour of this 1796 National Historic Landmark, one of the nation's oldest state houses. Tour the magnificently restored historic rooms, experience the interactive audio tour, visit the immersive Education Center , see the exciting new exhibition, shop in the Museum Store, attend a program, and so much more! ( http://www.ctosh.org/ ).

State Capitol, 210 Capitol Avenue, Hartford
Gold-domed High Victorian Gothic building, complete in 1878. National historic landmark. State executive offices and legislative chambers. ( www.cga.ct.gov/capitoltours ).

Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, 600 Main Street, Hartford
World renowned collections of Hudson River School and Old Master paintings, rare European porcelains, costumes and textiles. American decorative arts and contemporary art. Special exhibits during the Conference include Picasso to Pop: Aspects of Modern Art; Faith & Fortune: Five Centuries of European Masterworks; and Connecticut Contemporary. ( www.wadsworthatheneum.org ).

COMING INTO HARTFORD AS A DAY-TRIPPER

2007-03-22T23:47:00.000-04:00

While cheaper than in cities such as Boston or New York , it can still be expensive to bring your car and park it for a few days, especially if you are not going to use it. You are urged to car pool to save on gas and parking charges. In the next issue of the NERGC 2007 Hartford Conference E-Zine, (http://www.nergc.org )

Hospitality will address the matter of transporting yourself into Hartford as a day-tripper from outlying areas, i.e. the use of commuter parking lots.

CONFERENCE PARKING OPTIONS

2007-03-22T23:46:00.000-04:00

The most convenient parking for the Conference is in the parking garage shared by the Convention Center Convention Center and the Marriott Hartford Downtown.

Hotel Parking Rates
Self-park: $ 3.00 hourly or $18.00 daily
Valet parking: $20.00 daily

ConnecticutConvention CenterParking Rates
$3.00 first hour
$2.00 each additional hour
$19.00 Daily Maximum
$10.00 early bird special (in before 8:00 AM, out before 6:00 PM)

Alternative Parking
The hotel/Convention Center garage is owned by the State of Connecticut , not those facilities, so they have limited control over the rates. The City of Hartford owns other parking facilities in the area, including parking garages on Morgan Street or Constitution Plaza to the north that are cheaper but less convenient. The Hartford Parking Authority ( http://www.hartfordparking.com/map.htm ) Web page includes a map showing locations of many parking facilities.

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION IN AND AROUND HARTFORD

2007-03-22T23:45:00.000-04:00

Arriving for the conference by air? Bradley International Airport’s Web page includes transportation options between the airport and downtown Hartford ( http://www.bradleyairport.com/transport/transport.php ), including taxis and major bus service.

Hartford’s train and bus station is a mile from the hotel and is on the route of the “Star Shuttle ( http://new.cttransit.com/content/pdfs/starshuttle_FINAL.pdf ) ”, a FREE shuttle bus service to the hotels in the city every 15 minutes.

The Star Shuttle operates from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Monday - Friday and from 3:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. on Saturdays. This provides service approximately every 12 minutes along the circular route. The shuttle route has been designed to connect the Convention Center, the Riverfront, the Arts and Entertainment District, various restaurants, and downtown hotels.

UPS SHIPPING AVAILABLE AT CONFERENCE

2007-03-22T23:44:00.001-04:00

The UPS Store is located downstairs from the convention center, across from Starbucks coffee shop in the Marriott hotel. Hours: M-F 7:00-6:30 PM and Saturday 8:00-3:00. They offer packing, shipping, receiving, printing and more. Telephone: (203) 589-5571.

SOME REMINDERS FOR EXHIBITORS

2007-03-22T23:41:00.000-04:00

NERGC provides ten foot by ten foot exhibition space(s) with each space consisting of an 8’ high back wall, 3’ high rails, one eight foot skirted table, two folding chairs, one wastebasket with liner and one 7” by 44”, and an exhibitor sign with booth number(s).

If you need additional booth accessories, see the information packet sent out by SER Exposition Services in February. Neither the Convention Center nor the Marriott Hartford Downtown accepts conference-bound shipments. If you are not able to handle your own display items, contact our contractor, SER Exposition Services, at 508-757-3397.

If you need electrical connections, complete the form included in the SER packet or download the form online ( http://www.ctconventions.com/images/customer-files/CTCC%20Electrical%20Order%20Form.pdf ) from the Convention Center Web page.

Exhibitors needing Internet connections should also download that ONLINE ORDER FORM ( http://www.ctconventions.com/images/customer-files/CTCC%20Telecommunications%20Order%20Form.pdf ) and fax it to Exhibitor Services at (860) 728-2641, or mail it to the Connecticut Convention Center, Attn: Exhibitor Services, 100 Columbus Boulevard, Hartford, CT 06103.

All exhibitors selling materials much have a valid Connecticut sales tax number before making any sales, regardless of the number of sales that may be made or the amount of tax that will be collected. Connecticut does not issue temporary permits to vendors. The Sales and Use Tax Permit must be prominently displayed at your booth during the show. For further information, see the Department of Revenue Services Web page ( http://www.ct.gov/drs/cwp/view.asp?a=1477&Q=269922&drsPNavCtr= ), which describes the tax requirements and provides options for registering, including registering online ( http://www.ct.gov/drs/cwp/view.asp?a=1433&q=265880 ) or contact the Department at 800-382-9463.

EXHIBIT HALL UPDATE

2007-03-22T17:02:00.000-04:00

Open Thursday, April 26 from 6:00 to 7:00 P.M. and on Friday, April 27 and Saturday, April 28 from 8:20 A.M. until 5:00 P.M., exhibitors from across the U.S. and Canada will offer genealogical products and services in the Exhibit Hall, open to all without charge.

You’ll be able to purchase books and resources from vendors (such as David Brown Book Company, Heritage Books, Jonathan Shepard books); chat with exhibitors with expertise they’re willing to share, and find out more about genealogical and lineage societies ranging from the New England Historic Genealogical society to The Irish Ancestral Research Association, American French Genealogical Society, The Polish Genealogical Society of Connecticut and the Northeast and The Puerto Rican Hispanic Genealogical Society, Inc. There are also specialized exhibitors such as Family Tree DNA, Legacy Crafts, and The Photo Detective. To see a floor plan of the Exhibit Hall and a complete list of exhibitors, go to: http://www.nergc.org/2007/exhibithall.htm .

SOCIETY FAIR UPDATE

2007-03-22T16:54:00.000-04:00

Nancy Pexa, Society Fair Chair, reminds us that this year's Society Fair on
Thursday evening, April 26 from 5:00 until 7:00 is a great opportunity to pick up the
trail of a lost ancestor or discover a crack in one of those brick walls.

Since this year's conference is in Connecticut , we’ll begin with a listing of the
organizations from the host state. Genealogical societies represented are the
Connecticut Society of Genealogists, Inc. ( http://csginc.org/ ), Genealogy Club
of Newtown ( http://www.rootsweb.com/~ctgcnc/ ), Jewish Genealogical
Society of CT ( http://www.bh.org.il/Genealogy/jewgensocs.aspx#Connecticut ),
Middlesex Genealogical Society ( http://mgs.darien.org/ ), and the Naugatuck Valley Genealogy Club ( http://www.nvgcweb.org/ ).

Historical organizations are the Coventry Historical Society ( http://www.coventrycthistoricalsociety.org/ ), Governor Jonathan Trumbull House ( http://www.geocities.com/govtrumbullmuseum/ ), Indian & Colonial Research Center ( http://www.theicrc.org/index.htm ), Oliver Ellsworth Homestead ( http://www.ctdar.org/OEH/index.html ), Windham Textile & History Museum ( http://www.millmuseum.org/ ), and the Windsor Historical Society ( http://www.windsorhistoricalsociety.org/ ).

Also represented will be the Greater Hartford Association of Historic Houses
and Museums, National Society Daughters Colonial Wars ( http://nsdcw.org/ ),
National Society United States Daughters of 1812 ( http://www.usdaughters1812.org/ ), National Society of New England Women ( http://www.newenglandwomen.org/ ),
Women Descendants of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery, and Women Descendants
of the Founders and Patriots of America - Connecticut.

Organizations from Massachusetts are the Falmouth Genealogical Society ( http://www.falgen.org/ ), Jewish Genealogical Society of Greater Boston ( http://home.comcast.net/~jgsgb/ ), Massachusetts Archives ( http://www.sec.state.ma.us/arc/arcidx.htm ), Plymouth Public Library ( http://www.plymouthpubliclibrary.org/ ), and the Southwick Historical Society
http://www.southwickma.org/ )
Representing New York is the Genealogical Society of Rockland County ( http://rocklandgenealogy.org/ ), New City, New York.

In addition, look for the Avery Memorial Association ( http://www.averymemorialassociation.com/ ), The Harriman Family Association ( http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.com/~harrimanfamassoc/ ), Roberts Reunion Association ( http://www.robertsreunion.org/ ), and Welles Family Association ( http://www.wellesfamily.com/ ).

Remember, the Society Fair is open to the general public at no cost so that anyone can "CONNECT" with society representatives, pick up brochures and registration material, or perhaps even make a more permanent connection by joining the group.

THERE’S STILL ROOM IN THE HANDS-ON WORKSHOPS

2007-03-22T16:46:00.000-04:00

In addition to the Conference lecture sessions, a variety of special workshops are being offered. Each workshop is 2-3 hours in length and requires an additional fee. Please read the descriptions to understand additional requirements. Workshop space is limited. Make your choices on the NERGC registration form ( http://nergc.org/2007/program2007.htm ).

Family History 101
On Thursday, April 26, Marcia Melnyk will present Family History 101, a Beginner’s Primer to Genealogy. After outlining ways to get started, she’ll provide information on recording data, separating fact from fiction, and accessing places to locate records. Cost of the workshop is $35 and includes a copy of Marcia’s book, Family History 101.

Hands-On Workshops to Take Your Computer Skills to the Next Level
Digital images, whether of photographs or documents, are increasingly useful and important to compiling and preserving any family history. Two workshops planned for this NERGC conference should help a wide range of computer-using genealogists take their skills to the next level.

Capturing images worthy of archiving is the first step in the process. The first of these, Working with Digital Images from Scanning and Storing to Basic Editing by Emery Roth on Thursday afternoon from 3:00 P.M. - 5:00 P.M. (Session T-113, $30) is designed to demystify issues related to resolution, file format, and the scanning process so that participants will be certain that the images they capture today will be useful for their needs tomorrow. Participants will work with their own images and scanners so light and portable that they can easily become part of every researcher's travel kit when they visit libraries or relatives' homes. After learning how to get the most from these scanners, participants will take their scanned images into Photoshop Elements for a bit of basic image editing. Finally, they will learn about several software programs designed to help in organizing and cataloging images.

Once captured, there is much one can do to enhance the quality of old (or new) images. The second workshop "Enhancing and Repairing Digital Images in Photoshop Elements," presents Enhancing and Repairing Digital Images in Photoshop Elementson Friday morning from 8:00 A.M. - 11:00 A.M. (Session F-201, $35). is designed to get you started in Photoshop Elements or to take basic Photoshop skills to the next level. Do you have old photographs that have become badly faded? Are some of your images disfigured by scratches, tears, folds, or mold? Do you have old metal images or daguerreotypes with tones that look unnatural? Is there an insignia, locket, or other detail in an image that you want to see more clearly? Are those 1950s color photos looking a little too yellow? Photoshop Elements is a powerful tool that can draw more out of an old photo than you knew was there, and it can enable you to make repairs that you might previously paid hundreds of dollars to have a professional do. You will practice using a wide range of Photoshop tools of special value for genealogists. Those who are already using Photoshop but have not yet worked with "levels" will appreciate the flexibility and control offered by this valuable feature of the software. Those who are new to Photoshop may benefit from the two-day experience of taking both workshops.

Participants must bring their own USB equipped laptop with CD drive and with a copy of Photoshop Elements installed. Though the conference program calls for participants to have Photoshop Elements version 4, Photoshop Elements version 5 will also work.

Identifying and Preserving Family Photographs
David Mishkinand Maureen Taylor's Photography Workshop Identifying and Preserving Family Photographs(Friday afternoon 27 April from 1:45-3:45 PM) is limited to 30 participants and is filling quickly. Learn to identify family photographs by researching photographers, dating costume clues, and comparing facial characteristics. Cost of the workshop is $30.

Locating Digitized Images Online
On Saturday, April 28 Laura G. Prescott will present Locating Digitized Images Online. From maps to personal documents, you'll explore how and where to find digitized images and hidden treasures on websites across the Internet. You'll have a hands-on opportunity to locate images of headstones, family photographs, newspaper pages, and personal documents relating to some of your ancestors. You will learn not only how to search for and locate these images, but also how to save them on your computer, print them for your family's "archive," and cite them properly with copyright considerations in mind. The workshop is limited to a maximum of 40 people and requires advance registration. Participants are required to bring their own laptop computer with a wireless card. Windows and Macintosh computers are both welcome. Cost of the workshop is $30.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

2007-03-22T16:44:00.000-04:00

Cyndi Howells, one of our featured speakers, is owner and webmaster of
Cyndi’s List of Genealogy Sites on the Internet, www.CyndisList.com ( http://www.cyndislist.com/ ), a categorized index to over 209,500 online resources.
It has three times been voted the best genealogy site on the Web and receives more
than 3.2 million visits each month. Cyndi will be presenting "A Guided Tour of Cyndi’s List"
(F-208) Friday, April 27 from 10:00 - 11:00 A.M., "Planting Your Family Tree Online"
(F-220) Friday afternoon from 3:15 - 4:15 P.M., and "Evaluating Web Sites"
(S-315) Saturday afternoon from 1:45 - 2:45 P.M.

Cyndi, a genealogist for more than 24 years, is a member of the board of directors for the National Genealogical Society. She is the author of three books for genealogical research
on the Internet titled, Netting Your Ancestors, Cyndi's List, and Planting Your Family
Tree Online: How To Create Your Own Family History Web Site.

Megan Smolenyak Smolenyak, chief family historian for Ancestry.com, has recently
been in the national news in conjunction with the announcement of the Rev. Al Sharpton
- Strom Thurmond slavery link. Megan will be speaking on "Cases That Made My
Brain Hurt" at Friday’s luncheon, sponsored by the Connecticut Professional
Genealogists Council. On Saturday morning from 10:00 A.M. - 11:00 A.M. she’ll
present "Trace Your Roots with DNA," (S-313) explaining how genetic genealogy
can be used to further your genealogical endeavors and Saturday afternoon from
3:15 P.M. - 4:15 P.M. she’ll discuss "Beyond Y-DNA: Your Genetic Genealogy
Options (S-326).

Colleen Fitzpatrick is an expert on Forensic Genealogywhose experience as a
rocket scientist developing innovative technologies for NASA, the National Science
Foundation, and the Department of Defense has taught her never to throw away any
scrap of data. In her presentations at our conference, she’ll demonstrate that you don't
have to be a rocket scientist to get the most from your genealogical materials. On
Saturday morning from 8:30 A.M. - 9:30 A.M. Colleen will present "Forensic Genealogy
- An Overview" (S-307) explaining how to use photographs, databases, and DNA to solve
your genealogical mysteries. On Saturday afternoon from 4:45 P.M. - 5:45 P.M. she presents "Forensic Genealogy - Photographic Analysis" (S-332), providing innovative approaches to analyzing old photographs.

VOLUNTEER COMMITTEE SETS GOAL AT 100%

2007-03-22T16:42:00.000-04:00

Can you help the Volunteer Committee reach the 100% GOAL? Let’s fill 100%
of the identified volunteer needs in the next few weeks, assuring that we will be
ready for NERGC 2007. Planning ahead makes sense. We know that smooth,
successful activities at a conference of this size depends on people -- people to
give out name tags and syllabi, people to share resources on where to eat and
what to do, people to give directions, to set things up. We are making progress
toward out goal, but, we need YOU.

There is still room for YOU in the schedule. Plan to "set a spell, assist and chat"
work the registration booth, hospitality or volunteer tables in the busy
gathering place just outside the meeting room hallway and the Exhibit Hall.
Be "in the know" and serve as a hallway guide between sessions, helping crowds
get to their next activity. Join the "bustling, creative crew" to assemble, place,
and pick up the signs that will welcome participants and get them from here to
there efficiently. A "smiling face at the door " for luncheons and banquets might be
just the job for you. Or, "need to stretch"; walk room to room to pick up
evaluations between sessions. Orientation and instructions packets for volunteers
will make the job easy for you.

If you are registered for the conference, you are eligible to serve as a Session Host.
Those opportunities are going fast. There are only 2 out of 15 left to fill on Thursday
and 3 out of 25 to fill on Friday and Saturday. We are at 88% and reaching.
Additionally, we are especially looking for someone already registered for
Workshops T-101 or S-301 to step forward to serve as Workshop Hosts.

For more information, or to step forward and help reach the 100% Goal,
contact Pam Roberts by email at pamela.roberts@uconn.edu or phone evenings
at 860 429-8751.

THERE ARE STILL ROOMS AT THE MARRIOTT!

2007-03-22T16:37:00.000-04:00

Our initial block of $125 rooms and a second block of $140 rooms are now sold out.
However, the Marriott has released another block at $155.
(Rooms outside the NERGC block are significantly higher.)
If you have not yet booked your room, don’t delay! Make your reservations
either on-line or by telephone today! AFTER MARCH 26, 2007, the hotel may release unreserved rooms for general sale.

Hartford Marriott Downtown
200 Columbus Blvd.
Hartford, CT 06103-2807
Phone: 1-860-249-8000
Fax: 1-860-249-8181
Toll-free reservations: 1-866-373-9806
Hotel Web site: http://www.hartfordmarriott.com
Check-in time: 4:00 P.M.
Check-out time: 11:00 A.M.
Group code: NGCNGCA

Please remember that when making reservations on-line to be sure to enter the
Group Code above to get the NERGC rate. When making reservations via phone,
call Marriott Reservations at 1-866-373-9806 and ask to make reservations for the
New England Regional Genealogical Conference.

For other hotel options, see the NERGC 2007 Hartford Conference E-zine 11 (http://www.nergc.org/2007/ezine11.htm ) and E-zine 12 (http://www.nergc.org/2007/ezine12.htm )

REMINDER - PRE-REGISTRATION ENDS APRIL 1

2007-03-22T16:35:00.000-04:00

Pre-registration for New EnglandCONNECTions ends April 1.
Registrations postmarked after 1 April are considered walk-ins and may encounter
difficulty in registering for meals, workshops, or in receiving a printed syllabus.
Also a reminder that cancellations postmarked before 10 April will be subject to a
$15.00 processing fee. No refunds are available after 10 April 2007.

Tonight! March 22, 2007 8:00 PM

2007-03-22T08:38:00.000-04:00

New England Regional Conference (NERGC) April 26-29 Hartford CT Information Session
Join us Thursday March 22 at 8PM ET for an informational teleconference
about the NERGC conference

Register for this free teleconference session
http://ancestralmanor.com/?tabid=140

Learn what to bring, where to stay, what the program and speakers have to offer at the 9th annual New England Regional Conference!

NERGC features include:

Librarian's Day - pre-conference warmup, featuring topics on building a genealogy collection, creating online digital resources, and Connecticut resources.

Society Fair - information about many New England libraries, societies and organization resources in the vendor hall with exhibitors.

Space is limited for workshops on family history, photograph identification and digital image creation Thursday through Saturday!

Special Interest groups for will meeting Thursday evening for BCG certification, DNA, Family Reunion, Memory Book, Newsletter, Federal records, Connecticut, Maine, French Canadian, German, Irish, Scottish, and Mac user topics.

Speakers from all over the country will present topics in 7 different tracks:

Federal Records (immigrant, Revolutionary War, CT history, African American, research techniques, mariners and vessels, correspondence, migrations )

Ethnic research (ancestral homes, French Canadian, Asian, Quebec, English origins, Palatine, Irish, Russian, research in Ireland, African American & American Indian Patriots, British census, Famine immigrants, Eastern Europe)

Records and sources (government, family artifacts, records access, paupers, cemeteries, law libraries, Ellis Island, Civil War)

New England (Roger Williams, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New Hampshire, DAR, CT court records, Vermont Irish, Maine Popham colony CT probate, Maine history, CT State Library, Massachusetts State Archives, African American Civil War soldier)

Skills & Methodology (ancestral homes, timelines, lineage societies, land records, women, large projects, colonial court records, War of 1812, source errors, photographs, combining source analysis, communities) Technology (PDAs, Cyndi's List, Internet genealogy, family trees online,
automated research assistants, websites, handwriting analysis, DNA, photo analysis )

Writing & Documents (register style, family history, narratives, local records, document preservation), Genealogical Techniques (Forensic, DNA) Luncheons, a Friday night banquet and Sunday morning special program are also available.

ANCESTORS ROAD SHOW CORRECTION

2007-02-27T14:29:00.000-05:00

The Ancestors Road Show will take place until 5 P.M. on both Friday and Saturday during the conference, not until 6 P.M. as previously reported.

NOW IS THE TIME FOR NEWSPAPER PUBLICITY!

2007-02-27T14:28:00.000-05:00

Right about now is the ideal time for newspapers and other media to start giving the Conference some publicity -- through feature articles, interviews with the Conference speakers and publicity pieces throughout our area, particularly in the "hometowns" of the Participating Societies. We have an informative Press Kit to give editors the background they need to give the Conference some "ink" in their publications. Can you help us by contacting editors and other media people in your area? The Press Kit is available in hard copy from KSB832@verizon.netKSB832@verizon.net and is coming to the Conference website (http://www.nergc.org/) soon.

GOT WINDSOR CONNECTions?

2007-02-27T14:26:00.000-05:00

OPEN HOUSE AT WINDSOR HISTORICAL SOCIETY APRIL 29
The Windsor Historical Society will hold a special Open House on Sunday April 29, 2007 from 1 until 4 pm. The Society is particularly inviting the attendees of the NERGC Conference to visit and become acquainted with the resources in the research library. The collections include books, manuscript collections, cemetery records, regional and state histories, town reports, local newspapers, school yearbooks, city directories, and maps which relate to the town of Windsor and its people. Visit Connecticut’s oldest English settlement, tour two historic homes, and explore the exhibition gallery. The Windsor Historical Society, located at 96 Palisado Ave., Windsor, CT, preserves and interprets over 370 years of Windsor’s history. For more information and directions please visit the WHS website at http://windsorhistoricalsociety.org/ or stop by their table at the Society Fair between 5:00 and 7:00 on Thursday, April 26.

A CELEBRATION AT THE OLIVER ELLSWORTH HOMESTEAD APRIL 29
The Abigail Wolcott Ellsworth Chapter, NSDAR invites you to visit the home of one of Windsor’s notable 18th century sons, Oliver Ellsworth and his wife Abigail Wolcott. Elmwood, built for Ellsworth by Samuel Denslow and later expanded by Thomas Hayden, has furnishings from the Ellsworth and Wolcott families as well as wonderful antiques period to Oliver’s life there. Located at 778 Palisado Avenue in Windsor, Connecticut, it will be open on Sunday, April 29, 2007 to celebrate the 262nd anniversary of Oliver Ellsworth’s birth. Tours, special exhibits, and refreshments will be available from 10:00 A.M. until 3:00 P.M. All are welcome to celebrate the life of this remarkable American. For additional information and directions, stop by the CT DAR booth, Booth 6, in the Exhibit Hall.

THE DESCENDANTS OF THE FOUNDERS OF ANCIENT WINDSOR will be among the many other exhibitors in the Exhibit Hall. Open Thursday, April 26 from 6:00 to 7:00 P.M. and on Friday, April 27 and Saturday, April 28 from 8:20 A.M. until 5:00 P.M., the Exhibit Hall will be filled with exhibitors from across the U.S. and Canada offering genealogical products and services. The Exhibit Hall, like the Society Fair, is open to the general public without charge.

EXTENDED HOURS AT CT STATE LIBRARY ON APRIL 25

2007-02-27T14:24:00.000-05:00

To accommodate those coming to town early for the conference – as well as others wanting to spend some extra time in conducting family history research -- the Connecticut State Library’s History and Genealogy Unit will remain open until 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 25, with light refreshments served from 5:30-6:30 in the Library’s Museum of Connecticut History.

The Library will be open regular hours Thursday and Friday, April 26 and 27 from 9:00 until 5:00 and on Saturday, April 28 from 9:00 until 2:00.

CT STATE LIBRARY ACTIVELY INVOLVED IN CONFERENCE

2007-02-27T14:18:00.000-05:00

Members of the Connecticut State Library staff are playing key roles in organizing the conference, with Richard Roberts, Unit Head of the History and Genealogy Unit serving as Conference Co-Chair.

Speakers representing the State Library are: Nancy Peluso of the State Library’s Government Information Services Unit, and Carol Ganz, Kevin Johnson, and Richard Roberts of the History and Genealogy Unit.

On Thursday morning, Nancy Peluso will present “Government Secrets: Discovering Genealogical Resources in Federal, State, and Town Documents,” providing tips on how to find information about ancestors.

On Thursday afternoon, Richard Roberts presents “Connecticut Connections: Genealogical Research in the Constitution State,” providing an overview of state and local records, printed and electronic resources, and repositories.

On Saturday afternoon, Carol Ganz presents “Genealogical Revelations in Church and Related Records at the Connecticut State Library,” providing information on how to locate and interpret information in church membership and vital records and techniques and resources to track clergy and their congregations through church, ecclesiastical society, and related records.

Also on Saturday afternoon, Kevin Johnson performs “William Webb, An African-American Civil War Soldier, presenting the struggle for freedom through the eyes of a soldier in the 29th Connecticut Colored Infantry.

In addition, members of the Library staff will be staffing Booths 4 and 5 in the Exhibit Hall. Be sure to stop by to find out more about the Library’s resources and services.

SOCIETY FAIR UPDATE

2007-02-27T14:17:00.000-05:00

Society Fair Chair Nancy Pexa reports that the list of organizations booked for the Society Fair (Thursday, April 26, 5:00 – 7:00 P.M.) continues to grow!

The Coventry (Connecticut) Historical Society, Lebanon (Connecticut) Historical Society, Middlesex (Connecticut) Genealogical Society, Indian & Colonial Research Center (Old Mystic, Connecticut), and the Genealogical Society of Rockland, County, New York will all be represented. Also, look for tables hosted by the Avery Family Association, the Harriman Family Association, the Welles Family Association, and the Roberts Reunion Association [Descendants of William Watson and Nancy Hoyt (Bean) Roberts].

Remember, the Society Fair is open to the general public at no cost so that anyone can “CONNECT” with society representatives, pick up brochures and registration material, or perhaps even make a more permanent connection by joining the group.

WEIIIFM? ("WHAT ELSE IS IN IT FOR ME?”)

2007-02-27T14:15:00.000-05:00

Lots more is happening during the conference. The full program is available online at the Conference website (http://www.nergc.org/). In addition to the lectures and workshops, the luncheons and banquets; Exhibit Hall; Special Interest Group meetings; and Society Fair offer great opportunities for learning and “CONNECTing” with other genealogists with similar interests.

WORKSHOP SLOTS STILL AVAILABLE BUT GOING FAST

2007-02-27T14:13:00.000-05:00

There are still openings in all our specialized workshops, but don’t delay – space is going fast. In the last E-zine, we mentioned Emery Roth’s Photoshop Elements workshops. Here are two more to consider.

Family History 101
On Thursday, April 26, Marcia Melnyk will present Family History 101, a beginner’s primer to genealogy. After outlining ways to get started, she’ll provide information on recording data, separating fact from fiction, and accessing places to locate records. Cost of the workshop is $35 and includes a copy of Marcia’s book, Family History 101.

Marcia is no stranger to the genealogical community – in New England and around the country. In recognition of her many accomplishments, in 2004 she was awarded NERGC’s Donna Holt Siemiatkoski Genealogy Volunteer of the Year Award, and the citation read in part, “Marcia Melnyk lucidly and enthusiastically shares her tremendous genealogical knowledge and expertise with beginners and experts alike. She has presented her extraordinary lectures to many organizations” and “Marcia Melnyk has made outstanding contributions to the field of genealogy through lectures, writing, and participation in and devotion to the organizations in which she has been involved.”

Locating Digitized Images Online
On Saturday, April 28 Laura G. Prescott will present Locating Digitized Images Online, an exploration of how and where to find digitized images and hidden treasures on websites across the Internet. Cost of the workshop is $30. Participants are required to bring their own laptop computer (either Windows or Macintosh) with a wireless internet card.

Laura will also be presenting “Timelines: Placing Your Heritage in Historical Perspective on Thursday, April 26 (Session T-113)

Laura is a professional researcher, writer, and speaker who speaks to national audiences on the use of manuscripts in genealogical research, genealogy on the Internet, and computerized genealogy for Mac users. She writes for Ancestry and New England Ancestors magazines and is NERGC’s Webmaster and chair of the conference’s Librarians Day.

DON’T MISS SUNDAY’S SESSION ON JONATHAN EDWARDS

2007-02-27T14:11:00.000-05:00

In addition to the outstanding sessions that will be presented by our nationally known speakers, there are many others you won’t want to miss, including Special Session, S-401 on Sunday, 29 April 2007 sponsored by the Descendants of the Founders of Ancient Windsor.

In 1733, a religious revival began in Northampton, Massachusetts and was followed in 1739-1740 by the Great Awakening. During this time, Jonathan Edwards, a Connecticut native – father of twelve, preacher, scholar, missionary, and President of Princeton University -- preached his most famous sermon, “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God.” Rev. Söderberg will begin the session with a short introduction to Jonathan Edwards and this very famous sermon and then deliver the sermon in period costume.

Reverend Söderberg is a native New Englander, born in Worcester, Massachusetts. He graduated Triton Regional High School in Byfield, Massachusetts in 1980 and was a drummer/songwriter for the next sixteen years. During this time, he was also employed by the United States Postal Service, ending up as a postmaster in Salisbury, Massachusetts. In 1997, he answered the call to pastoral ministry and entered seminary. He graduated from the Congregational Foundation for Theological Studies; American Christian College and Seminary with a bachelor's degree (Magna Cum Laude) in Religious Studies; and Bangor Theological Seminary where he received his Master of Divinity degree. He served the Congregational Christian Council of Maine on the State Youth Ministries Committee 1998-2000; as a Summer Youth Camp Co-Director 1999, 2000, 2001, 2006; and as Vice Moderator 2004-2005. He has also served on the Nominating Committee of the National Association of Congregational Christian Churches 2001-2003. After a nine year pastorate in Maine, on December 4, 2005 he was installed as the 17th Senior Minister of South Congregational Church, Hartford, Connecticut.

PROGRAM SPEAKER HIGHLIGHTS

2007-02-27T14:08:00.000-05:00

Henry Z “Hank” Jones, Jr., FASG, one of our three featured speakers, was a film actor for 25 years, and his credits include eight Disney movies and many television shows. His background as an entertainer makes him a captivating lecturer. But beyond that, he has been a professional genealogist since 1965 and is a respected Fellow of the American Society of Genealogists. He specializes in tracing 18th century German emigrants and is the author of The Palatine Families of Ireland, The Palatine Families of New York, More Palatine Families, Weesterwald to America, and Even More Palatine Families and his popular books, Psychic Roots and More Psychic Roots.

Hank’s lecture topics are “Tracing the Origins of Early 18th Century Palatine and Other Emigrants” (Session F-215) and “When The Sources Are Wrong!” (Session S-302). At Saturday evening’s banquet, sponsored by the Connecticut Society of Genealogists, he’ll share his adventures behind the NBC-TV dramatization of his ground-breaking bestseller Psychic Roots and even more amazing serendipitous experiences contributed by genealogists worldwide for his sequel More Psychic Roots. You won’t want to miss this entertaining presentation!

Read more about Hank Jones on our featured speakers Web page, http://www.nergc.org/2007/featuredspeakers2007.htm. And check out Hank’s own Web page at http://www.hankjones.com/

Horace Waters, one of the speakers on the NARA track, will be presenting “Beyond the Census” (Session T-114) and “19th and Early 20th Century Crew Lists” (Session F-216). He has worked for the National Archives and Records Administration, Northeast Region, Waltham, MA, for four years. He holds a B.S. degree in Electrical Engineering and a B.S. degree in Life Sciences, both from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. A ninth-generation New Englander, he has 15 years experience with New England genealogical and historical records. He is a member of the NEHGS, NGS, and the Society of American Archivists. Our deep apologies to Horace for previous misspellings of his name.

A WARM WELCOME (AND AN INVITATION) FROM THE VOLUNTEER CO-CHAIRS

2007-02-27T14:05:00.000-05:00

Welcome to CT.
Welcome to Hartford.
Welcome to NERGC’s Hartford Conference, “New England CONNECTions”

Want to help folks feel connected, welcomed, appreciated?

A good place to start is by helping at the volunteer table.

Volunteers are critical to the success of our conferences and we need flexible, “can do” individuals to staff the Volunteer Table. The conference Information/Hospitality table will not be manned until Thursday, so on Wednesday, in addition to welcoming and orienting volunteers, the Volunteer Table will be the general everything table.

Janet Wallace, the Hospitality Chair, will provide some materials to assist with Wednesday’s hospitality/information component of the task, and the volunteer co-chairs will provide volunteer information and materials, but it is the PERSON, the PEOPLE, who will make this work. During less busy times the volunteer table host will be assisting with registration or other nearby tasks. Are you flexible? Are you a “can do” person? Do you have some time to volunteer for this critical opportunity?

Are you willing to be a host at the volunteer table? Help is needed Wednesday 8:00 A.M. - 7:00 P.M.; Thursday 11:00 A.M. - 2:15 P.M. and 3:45 - 9:00 P.M.; Friday 7:30 A.M. - 11:30 P.M. and 1:30 - 7:30 P.M.; and Saturday 7:00 A.M. - 7:30 P.M. These hours have been tentatively broken down into two hours or less per time slot, but we’re flexible. Just tell us when you would like to volunteer and we’ll take it from there.

Contact the volunteer co-chairs:

Cheryl Willis Patten: cwpatten@localnet.com Tel. (207) 634-2156 1161 East Pond Road, Smithfield, ME 04978

Pam Roberts: pamela.roberts@uconn.edu Tel. (860) 429-8751 596 Gurleyville Rd., Storrs, CT 06268-1408

AN UPDATE FROM THE REGISTRATION CHAIR

2007-02-27T14:01:00.000-05:00

With two months still to go, we're up to over 450 registrations for the Conference! Also, we've received 23 Librarian's Day registrations to date. Still, there’s plenty of room for more!

Although the early registration deadline has passed, at $125 New England CONNECTions remains a bargain when compared to the registration fees for other conferences. Review the Registration Brochure and other information about the conference at http://www.nergc.org/ and send off your registration today!

Already registered for the conference but thinking about joining in on another luncheon, banquet or workshop? It’s not too late! Just send in a registration form with the words "ALREADY REGISTERED" at the top. Check off the meals, meal choices, and workshops you would like to add and send it to me, Mary Choppa, with your check or money order to the address indicated on the form. You'll receive an additional confirmation of added items.

The registration form is available online at: http://www.nergc.org/2007/program/page12.htm

-- Mary Choppa

PUBLICIZING THE CONFERENCE

2007-02-07T21:32:00.000-05:00

We have a continuing need for volunteers to help distribute publicity material to local libraries, archives and Family History Centers – and to check back at these facilities periodically to re-stock them if necessary.

Please send an e-mail to ksb832@verizon.net or harold.odiorne@the-spa.com and include “NERGC Publicity” in the subject line.

AND: Can you help us gain a wider circulation for the Conference e-zines by forwarding each issue to friends, family, members of your Society, and to any others who you think will be interested in attending the Conference?

NERGC 2007 STILL NEEDS VOLUNTEERS!

2007-02-07T21:28:00.000-05:00

With many thanks to those of you who have let us know you ability to help out, here are some high priority areas for which we still have high needs.

Registration Booth Volunteers: We badly need to get assignments for the 6-8 volunteers needed to "man" the Registration area to assure that no long lines occur and all of our registrants efficiently receive the information they need. Wed 3 - 7 pm, Thursday 10-1:30 and 5-6:30 as well as starting at 7 on both Friday and Saturday are PRIME TIMES when we will need volunteers to efficiently manage those arriving. Mary Choppa, Chairperson of Registration will have all well organized for you to help out comfortably.

Ancestry Road Show: Triage Volunteers are needed 8 - 12 and 1:30 - 6 on Friday and 7:30 to 11:30 on Friday. Ancestry Road Show Timers/Hosts are needed 9-12 and 2-5 in hourly slots on both Friday and Saturday. Don't forget if you wish to volunteer as an expert, the Ancestry Road Show chairpersons Fred Hart mailto:hartfc@aol.com?subject=NERGC%202007 and Christine Sweet-Hart mailto:massroots@comcast.net?subject=NERGC%202007 would love to hear directly from you.

Special Interest Group Session Hosts: Are you going to one of the Thursday Special Interest Groups? Would you be willing to assist with some logistics at the group session? We'd like to identify one volunteer for each of the approximately 10 sessions.

Many other volunteer opportunities exist. Contact the Volunteer Committee Co-Chairs with your preferences for assignments in the above high need areas as well as in helping with AV/Signage, Hospitality, meal ticket takers, and many other tasks. Session Hosts introduce speakers and wrap up the session on time letting you volunteer without sacrificing your program priorities. Get your requests for assignments in now. You will receive confirmation ahead of time and packets with all the specific instructions and resources you need to carry out your tasks when you arrive at the conference.

Contact:
Cheryl Willis Patten: cwpatten@localnet.com <cwpatten@localnet.com> Tel.
(207) 634-2156 1161 East Pond Road, Smithfield, ME 04978

Pam Roberts: pamela.roberts@uconn.edu <pamela.roberts@uconn.edu> Tel.
(860) 429-8751 596 Gurleyville Rd., Storrs, CT 06268-1408

SOCIETY FAIR TABLES STILL AVAILABLE

2007-02-07T21:26:00.000-05:00

Attention genealogical and historical societies, libraries, and other organizations!

Be a part of the Society Fair - Thursday, April 26, 2007. 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Display brochures, publications, membership information, take orders but no on-site sales. We provide signage, table/chair. The deadline for societies to register has been extended on a space available basis until March 1, 2007.

Just download the Society Fair invitation and form from http://www.nergc.org/images/societyfair.pdf or contact Nancy Pexa, nanpexa@sbcglobal.net.

WATCH THIS SPACE! (MORE NEWS FROM YOUR HOSPITALITY CHAIR)

2007-02-07T21:24:00.000-05:00

We’ll suggest “Things to Do” around Connecticut for those family members traveling with a genealogist but not attending the conference. Our Trips & Tours Chair is planning something special along these lines.

We’ll also point out some favorite and noted restaurants for your dining pleasure, should you wish to eat off-site. And we’ll have an update on parking options.
It’s almost time to start packing your suitcase – and be preparing for your trip to Hartford!

See you “here”!

Janet Wallace, NERGC Hospitality Chair