Show Me the Nation's Records -- A Great Success

Can you believe it? NGS 2008 - Show Me the Nation's Records is over already. The conference was a great success with interesting sessions, the latest genealogical products on display at the vendor booths and stimulating speakers at the luncheons and banquet. The Mid-Continent Genealogy Center and Ancestry both hosted wonderful receptions too.

There were approximately 1600 attendees, hundreds of vendor exhibits and sessions covering topics such as researching your German ancestors, using maps in genealogical research, various sessions on military research, an entire day on using DNA in genealogy and a Board for Certification of Genealogists Skillbuilding track that covered citing sources, preparing kinship determinations, making research plans, indexing, writing, abstracting records and applying genealogical standards.

We hope everyone made it home safely and that you are already making plans to attend next year's NGS Conference which will be held in Raleigh, NC. The dates for next year's conference are May 13-16.

Thanks to all who made the 2008 NGS Conference a GREAT SUCCESS!!

Last Blog --- Conference Starts Tomorrow!!

It is finally here -----Hope to see you at the 2008 NGS Conference in Kansas City: Show Me the Nation's Records!!

Have a safe trip.

Have fun.

Learn lots.

Visit with old friends and make new ones!!

Signing off for 2008!

Conference Tip #5: Bring some cash for odds and ends

Carry plenty of $1 bills. It’s customary to tip the baggage handlers at the airport, the taxi or shuttle bus driver, the doorman, and the bellman – and that’s all before you get to your room!

Also remember to bring some smaller currency for purchases at vendor exhibits. They may not be able or willing to use all their extra currency to make change for smaller purchases. If you are planning to do research while in Kansas City you will also want to bring coins and small bills for making photocopies.

If you plan to make purchases make sure to have room in luggage to take it home with you. An extra suitcase or tote bag may come in handy.

Conference Tip #4: Leave itinerary and contact information with family / friends

Prepare an itinerary with contact numbers and major locations where you will be staying to leave with your family or loved ones. They may need to get in touch with you for some reason.

Conference Tip #3: Bring an umbrella and light jacket

This spring in Kansas City has been cool and wet. It would be a good idea to bring a small umbrella. Hopefully you won’t need it, but if you don’t have one, it’s a “sure thing” it will rain.

Also, a lightweight jacket is advisable if you plan to be going out in the evenings.

Conference Attendees to be Welcomed by Special Guest

Harry S. Truman, portrayed by local re-enactor Niel Johnson, will welcome the nation's genealogists at a Wine and Cheese Reception Tuesday evening, May 13, 2008 at the Hyatt Regency Crown Center. Open to the public, the reception is from 5:00-7:00pm and costs $15.00 per person.

"Show Me Missouri Wines" is sponsored by the Missouri State Genealogical Association and precedes the opening of the National Genealogical Society's Conference in the States and Family History Fair at the Hyatt Regency Crown Center, May 14-17. Genealogists and family historians from across the nation will gather in Kansas City for four days of lectures, workshops and networking opportunities.
Truman impersonator Niel Johnson is a retired archivist and historian at the Truman Presidential Library & Museum. He began portraying Truman following his retirement in 1993. Johnson has portrayed Truman for service organizations, veterans and school groups. In 1994 he portrayed Truman at a re-enactment of the Democratic convention of 1944 in Chicago and in 1996 he participated at a banquet preceding the christening of the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman.

For information about attending please contact David Sapp dsapp88@mchsi.com.

Speaker Spotlight: Victor S. Dunn, CG℠

Victor S. “Vic” Dunn, CG, is a full time professional genealogist researching Virginia, West Virginia and Maryland families. Vic specializes in land records and platting and brick-wall problem resolution. He is currently serving as the treasurer of the National Genealogical Society (NGS) and is the immediate past vice-president of the Shenandoah Valley Genealogical Society. Vic is a contributor to numerous publications including feature articles in NGS Quarterly plus Magazine of Virginia Genealogy, NGS News Magazine, Northern Virginia Genealogy, and the Virginia Genealogical Society Newsletter.

Speaker Spotlight: Paula Stuart-Warren, CG℠

Paula is an internationally known popular lecturer, writer, and researcher who works full-time in genealogy. She is a graduate of the National Institute of Genealogical Research held at the U.S. National Archives. She is certified by the Board for Certification of Genealogists and is a firm believer in continuing education in genealogy. She is comfortable with her audiences and enjoys discussing genealogy with participants. Her seminar presentations have taken her to most states in the U.S. and to Canada. Since 1997 she has been a Course Coordinator for the Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy's American Genealogy Records and Resources intermediate course.

She is a columnist for Ancestry Weekly Journal and has written articles for many genealogical publications including, NGS NewsMagazine, NGS Quarterly, NewEnglandAncestors.org, FGS Forum and Ancestry Magazine. She co-authored Your Guide to the Family History Library. Paula has been a national officer of the Association of Professional Genealogists, a board member of the Minnesota Genealogical Society, and an active volunteer for both NGS and FGS.

Her ancestors represent eight different countries. These ancestors, descendants, and the cousins resided in many Midwestern and Western states and in several Canadian provinces. She has also researched her children’s paternal southern ancestors. Her other specialties include the U.S. National Archives, other major repositories, American Indians, problem solving, railroads, and the WPA.

Day Trips from Kansas City

While you are in the area why not stay an extra day or two and visit some of the other interesting places in close proximity to Kansas City. The links below will give you more information about sites of interest that are easily traveled to within a day.

Aeronautics
Atchison, KS -- Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum - http://www.ameliaearhartmuseum.org/
Kansas City, MO – Airline History Museum -- http://www.airlinehistorymuseum.com/
Topeka, KS – Combat Air Museum -- http://www.combatairmuseum.org/

Black History
Kansas City, MO – Negro Leagues Baseball Museum -- http://www.nlbm.com/
Kansas City, MO – Black Archives of Mid-America -- http://www.blackarchives.org/
Kansas City, MO – American Jazz Museum -- http://www.americanjazzmuseum.com/

Ethnic Destinations
Kansas City, KS – Strawberry Hill Museum and Cultural Center http://www.strawberryhillmuseum.org/html/exhibits.html
Kansas City, KS – Shawnee Indian Mission State Historic Site -- http://www.kshs.org/places/shawnee/
Kansas City, MO – Black Archives of Mid-America -- http://www.blackarchives.org/
Kansas City, MO – Irish Museum and Cultural Center - http://www.irishmuseum.org/

Harry S. Truman
Independence, MO - Truman Presidential Museum & Library -- http://www.trumanlibrary.org/
Independence, MO – Harry S. Truman Home -- http://harrystruman.areaparks.com/

Jazz
Kansas City, MO – American Jazz Museum -- http://www.americanjazzmuseum.com/

Military
Frontier Military Scenic Byway -- http://ksbyways.org/Pages/Frontier/frontier1.html
Fort Leavenworth, KS -- http://www.kansastravel.org/fortleavenworth.htm
http://garrison.leavenworth.army.mil/sites/about/history.asp
http://usacac.army.mil/CAC/csi/museum.asp
Topeka, KS – Combat Air Museum -- http://www.combatairmuseum.org/
Kansas City, MO - National WWI Memorial Museum -- http://www.libertymemorialmuseum.org/

Frontier and Pioneer Life
Bonner Springs, KS – National Agricultural Hall of Fame -- http://www.aghalloffame.com/
Kansas City, MO - Arabia Steamboat Museum -- http://www.1856.com/
Independence, MO – National Frontier Trails Museum -- http://www.ci.independence.mo.us/NFTM/
Kansas City, MO - Kansas City Rail Experience @ Union Station - http://www.unionstation.org/exhibitDetail.cfm?listingID=150
Leavenworth, KS – National Fred Harvey Museum -- http://www.firstcitymuseums.org/1harvey.html
St. Joseph, MO - Pony Express National Museum -- http://www.ponyexpress.org/
Kansas City, KS – Grintner Place State Historic Site -- http://www.kshs.org/places/grinter/index.htm
Lawson, MO – Watkins Woolen Mill State Park and State Historic Site -- http://www.mostateparks.com/wwmill/
Independence, MO - Bingham-Waggoner Estate - http://www.bwestate.org/
Kansas City, MO - Garment District Museum - http://www.visitkc.com/visitor_info/art_basic.cfm?ID=32935
Beatrice, NE – National Homestead Museum - http://www.beatricene.com/homestead/infopage.html
Beatrice, NE – Homestead National Monument of America - http://www.nps.gov/home/
Edgerton, KS – Lanesfield School Historic Site - http://www.jocomuseum.org/lanesfield.htm

Miscellaneous
Kansas City, MO - Hallmark Visitor’s Center – http://www.hallmarkvisitorscenter.com/findUs/index.htm
Shawnee, KS - 1950s All Electric House - http://www.jocomuseum.org/electrichouse.htm
Kansas City, MO - Kansas City Fire Museum -
http://www.visitkc.com/visitor_info/attraction_basic.cfm?ID=35073
Kansas City, MO - Toy and Miniature Museum of Kansas City - http://www.umkc.edu/tmm/

Mormon Sites
Independence, MO – Independence Visitors’ Center - http://www.lds.org/placestovisit/location/0,10634,1812-1-1-1,00.html
Far West, MO - http://www.lds.org/placestovisit/location/0,10634,1808-1-1-1,00.html
Liberty, MO – Liberty Jail Historic Site
http://www.lds.org/placestovisit/location/0,10634,1811-1-1-1,00.html
Omaha, NE – Mormon Trail Center at Historic Winter Quarters - http://www.lds.org/placestovisit/location/0,10634,1837-1-1-1,00.html

Native Americans
Kansas City, KS – Shawnee Indian Mission State Historic Site -- http://www.kshs.org/places/shawnee/
Lawrence, KS – Haskell Indian Nations University Cultural Center & Museum -- http://www.haskell.edu/archive/haskell_archive.htm

Wild, Wild West
Multiple – Jesse James sites in Missouri -- http://www.legendsofamerica.com/WE-JesseJames9.html

Check this out – there’s even more to do in Kansas City!
History/Education - http://www.jchs.org/education/jacomo_bookmark.htm

Conference Tip #2

Be sure to bring clothes that are comfortable and professional. Don't forget to bring a good pair of walking shoes too. There is often a lot of walking at conferences!

Speaker Spotlight: Traci Wilson-Kleekamp

Traci Wilson-Kleekamp, Family History Research Consultant, explores the resources available online and in local, state and national historical repositories that help family historians discover more about their African-American heritage. She is currently featured on the Missouri State Archives website African-American Genealogy: Putting Together the Pieces of Your Past: A Five-Part Series with Traci L. Wilson-Kleekamp.

This five-part series provides helpful tips on accessing the best websites, which records are most beneficial, and how to get the most out of original records. Together, “What’s Out There?;” “What’s Your Story?: Finding It on the Web;” “How Do I Find Out More?;” “What Happened During the Wars?;” and “How Do I Put All the Information Together?” teach researchers to use all the pieces they find to gain a better understanding of those who came before them.

Wilson-Kleekamp is a graduate of California State University, Long Beach and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism, Public Relations. She is the web-mistress of African Americans in MO.

Contact information:

573/441-0043 (home)

573/441-0221 (fax)

and 573/239-0858 (cell) twilsonklee@earthlink.net

Speaker Spotlight: Bruce Buzbee

Bruce Buzbee is the founder and president of RootsMagic, Inc., and the author of RootsMagic genealogy software. For over 18 years Bruce has been writing genealogy software, having originally written the very popular Family Origins genealogy software. Bruce has taught thousands of users the ins and outs of RootsMagic, from the basics for beginners to advanced topics for the genealogy professional. Bruce is also the webmaster of Family-Reunion.com, the world's most popular family reunion planning site, as well as the author of Family Reunion Organizer software.

Conference Tip #1

The NGS Conference 2008 is just days away. The conference opens next Wednesday, May 14 and runs through May 17. A conference tip from members of the Heartland Chapter of the Association of Professional Genealogists will be posted over the next week to give you hints to make your conference experience enjoyable.

Tip #1: If you’re planning to take any electronics (cell phones, laptops, etc) don’t forget to bring your chargers, backup batteries, and other paraphernalia to keep everything going.

Speaker Spotlight: Kenneth W. Heger

Kenneth W. Heger is the Chief of the Archives I Research Support Branch at the National Archives and Records Administration, where he manages NARA's Family History Program. He has published on a broad range of historical and genealogical topics in state, local and national periodicals. He has also made presentations at the annual conferences of the National Genealogical Society and Federation of Genealogical Society, and is a regular speaker at the National Institute on Genealogical Research. He has a doctorate in history from the University of Maryland.

Exhibitor Spotlight: Wolf's Head Books, Inc.

About Us: "A real class act with some vintage treasures and books covering most subject areas. The books are nicely displayed, attractively priced..." Quote from - The Used Book Lovers Guide to the South Atlantic States, p.58.

Specialties:
Wolf's Head Books, Inc., ABAA is a General Antiquarian Bookseller with an emphasis on the following:
• Americana
• Military
• Juvenile Series
• Signed fiction
• Floridiana
• Genealogy
• Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings
• Marjory Stoneman Douglas
• Clair Bee
• Hendrik Willem Van Loon (for all "Loony" collectors)
• Mrs. E. D. E. N. Southworth

Books & Ephemera in most other fields:
• Appraisals
• Book Search
• Collection Development

Corporate History:
As happens to so many people who eventually become booksellers, we began collecting books and then buying so many more that our house began to lean! It was so much fun being book wholesalers that we decided to open our store.

Barbara left her teaching career to become a fulltime bookseller. Our first location was in the basement of the water department building right next to the post office in downtown Morgantown, WV. We opened our doors in 1980, knowing of course, that in a few months we would have the whole two floors when the water company moved. Harvey continued to teach at WVU.

We always knew that we wanted to live near a warm water ocean, and while on vacation to Florida we found the perfect location and building in St. Augustine. One month later Barbara had up-and-moved here and in October 1988 our second store opened. Harvey continued to profess at WVU. It was pretty rough having two stores 850 miles apart, so in 1992 we sold the Morgantown store.

Harvey retired early from WVU in 1995 and we now devote our time to the St. Augustine store, walking the beach and swimming in the ocean when the water temperature reaches eighty degrees. Like we said, we wanted a warm water ocean!

Our principle staff person is Michael Theeke, a native of Adrian, Michigan. In fact, he was an early supporter of our dream, as he help paint the store and organize books just before we opened in Morgantown, WV. The hour before we had our grand opening, he handed us a sign for the wall after the book titled: "In God We Trust, All Others Pay Cash". Mike's special knowledge areas are Russia and Eastern European history. However, after seven years as our assistant, he's pretty well-versed in most of the subjects we carry.

We really love being booksellers in St. Augustine, as we've made some wonderful book-friends in the area. In addition, lots of tourists take their annual vacations in St. Augustine. And not to be left out are the book friends we've made over the internet who someday we'd like to meet in person.

Affiliations:
• ABAA: Antiquarian Booksellers Association of America.
• ILAB: International League of Antiquarian Booksellers
• FABA: Florida Antiquarian Booksellers Association.
• ADASTA: Antique Dealers of St. Augustine.
• UACC: Universal Autograph Collectors Club.
• ACDA: Antiques and Collectables Dealer Association.


Wolf's Head Books, Inc. is owned & operated by Dr. Barbara Nailler and Dr. Harvey J. Wolf.

Harvey Wolf has been a book collector since his teens. Two years of his early adulthood were spent at West Point. For many years he was a physicist in the aerospace industry; then started second and third careers as a professor of Public Administration, and antiquarian bookseller.

As a young girl, Barbara E. Nailler got hooked on books by her grandmother, Bernice Furbush, who started her reading Gene Stratton-Porter and Mrs. E.D.E.N. Southworth. Barbara was a junior high school teacher in Michigan and Professor of Educational Psychology in West Virginia prior to becoming an antiquarian bookseller.

Hours
11am - 7pm, Monday - Friday
11am - 5pm, Saturday
12.30pm - 5pm, Sunday

Other hours by appointment or chance. Find us here.

Wolf's Head Books, Inc. ABAA
67-B San Marco Ave.
St. Augustine, FL 32084
(904) 824-9357
(904) 824-2212 (fax)
Fax: (904) 824-2212
www.wolfsheadbooks.com

Speaker Spotlight: Lyle Gibson

Career:

• History Professor; Metropolitan Community College—Penn Valley
• Adjunct Professor for the Social Science department at Kansas City Kansas Community College, 1998-present
  

Education:

• Master’s Degree in History from the University of Missouri Kansas City, 1999
• Bachelor’s Degree in History from the University of Arkansas Pine Bluff, 1996
  

Affiliations:>

• National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution
• Midwest Afro American Genealogical Interest Coalition
• Eye of Ra—African Fraternity & Sorority
• Kansas Institute for African American and Native American Family History
• Co-Advisor for the Black Student Association; MCC-Penn Valley
• Co-Advisor for the Advocates of Better Government; MCC-Penn Valley
  

Military:

• U.S. Air Force 1986-1990
• Texas—Strategic Air Command (SAC)
• Greece—NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization)

Awards/Recognitions:

• Selected as one of the influential faculty members of the Metropolitan Community Colleges—Penn Valley, 2006
• Inducted into the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution—first African American in the Kansas Delaware Crossing Chapter
• Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers; 2006, 2005 and 2002
• Academy for Leadership and Development; 2002 & 2003
• Fulbright Hays GPA Scholar; 1999, Senegal, West Africa
• Minority Master’s Fellowship; 1997 & 1998 University of Missouri Kansas City
  

Publications: Recent

• We Are the American People: Our Nation’s History Through Its Documents (2005) used as a text at the Metropolitan Community Colleges
• Black Tie White Tie: Chronicle of an American Family 1739-1940 (2003; Revised Edition 2006) used as a text at the Metropolitan Community Colleges-Penn Valley

Travel:

• Fulbright Hays Group Projects Abroad Participant Summer 1999
• Senegal, West Africa (Mauritania) 1999
• Greece; Crete; Zachintos; Patras; Achaia; Athens; Olympia; Delphi 1988-1990
  

Interests:

• History
• Genealogy
• Travel
• Music
• Family time

Exhibitor Spotlight: Fun Stuff For Genealogists, Inc.

Fun Stuff for Genealogists, Inc. began ten years ago by Bev Petersen, a genealogist, of Mishawaka, Indiana in 1998 selling charts out of the back of her car and the rest was history. Realizing there were a lot of genealogists out there who needed (and wanted!) her items, she started selling at genealogy seminars and on the internet at her site http://www.FunStuffForGenealogists.com . Today, Bev has hundreds of fun and useful items including T-shirts, embroidered shirts and bags, mugs, bumper stickers, jewelry, pedigree charts, magnifiers, the new "Tag-Alongs" and the famous "Cite Your Sources", clip-art, maps, scrapbooking items, rubber stamps, counted cross stitch and quilt patterns and books and a lot of smaller novelty items. Bev refers to her booth as the candy at the check out counter!

Visit Bev's Fun Stuff for Genealogists, Inc. web site to get your list ready for the show or order on her secured web site today!

Exhibitor Spotlight: Samford Institute of Genealogy & Historical Research

The Samford Institute of Genealogy and Historical Research (IGHR) provides an educational forum for the discovery, critical evaluation, and use of genealogical sources and methodology through a week of intensive study. Students may choose one of the ten or more courses that range from a course for beginners to courses on specialized topics.

The objectives of the Institute are:

1. To teach the fundamentals of genealogical research and methodology.
2. To teach research skills using a variety of resources and facilities.
3. To provide broad and in-depth historical and genealogical subject content.
4. To teach the evaluation of resources, proficiency in bibliographic citation, and critical analysis of documentation.
5. To provide instruction for those wishing to pursue careers in genealogy and related disciplines.
   

The institute is academically and professionally oriented and is cosponsored by the Board for Certification of Genealogists. The faculty is composed of outstanding, nationally prominent, genealogy educators. The institute regularly enrolls over 200 students from around the country.

Projected dates for the institute are: June 8-13, 2008; June 14-19, 2009; June 13-18, 2010; and June 12-17, 2011.

For more information, please visit our web site:

http://www.samford.edu/schools/ighr/

Speaker Spotlight: Barbara Renick

Barbara is a nationally known genealogy lecturer. She frequently lectures at the national conferences of such organizations as the National Genealogical Society, Brigham Young University, and the Federation of Genealogical Societies. She currently serves on staff and teaches at the Regional Family History Center in Orange, California. Barbara writes for several genealogy publications, including the NGS NewsMagazine, and co-authored the book The Internet for Genealogists: A Beginner’s Guide (now out of publication). Her most recent book titled Genealogy 101: How to Trace Your Family’s History and Heritage was sponsored by the National Genealogical Society for their 100th Anniversary. She is also well known for the 'Z' Links page at her ZRoots.com Web site which is a favorite tool for many of her students. Barbara also has authored several instructional videos on how to trace your family tree on-line.

Mrs. Barbara Ann Renick nee Zuknick was born in Maryland to a German immigrant father and a Tennessee hillbilly mother. She grew up on a small farm surrounded by the forks of the Patuxent River. Even as a child, she was interested in stories about what life was like when her parents and grandparents were children. Barbara had her first exposure to computers during high school while studying at Southern Illinois University on a summer scholarship from the National Science Foundation.

In college, Barbara had a four-year scholarship in electrical engineering with an eye toward designing computers. She earnestly began to trace her family tree shortly after her marriage in 1970 when she changed her college major to nursing. Over the next few years, she took a beginning genealogy class three times before she felt she had begun to grasp the intricate methods involved in researching her family tree through Germany, Polish Russia and the hills of Tennessee. She graduated from Brigham Young University with a B.S. in Nursing in 1974.

From 1974 to 1979, Barbara attended many genealogical conferences, took more genealogy classes, and avidly pursued her ancestry. During this era B.C. (Before Children and personal Computers), Barbara took many research trips and attended family reunions in Maryland, Tennessee and the Great Smoky Mountains of North Carolina. When the “Roots” phenomenon hit (thanks to Alex Haley), she was called upon to teach others what she had studied and learned.

From 1979 to 1983, Barbara had and adopted four special needs children. This curtailed her genealogical trips for a few years. However, in 1983 she purchased her first personal computer and began converting her paper genealogy filing system. Shortly thereafter, she was asked to train and supervise a crew of data entry workers for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Her small crew did data entry for the International Genealogical Index and the Ancestral File. She did this for ten years.

In 1985, she began working as a beta tester for a computer training company. Today, she is frequently asked to alpha and beta test software programs and Internet sites. From 1987 to 1999, she trained family history and genealogy consultants for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the areas of Brea, Placentia, and Yorba Linda, California. During those years, she published a free newsletter on current developments in the field of genealogy as an adjunct to her training of these family history consultants. Upon request, her newsletter was sent to others across the country filling similar positions. She began teaching Personal Ancestral File courses in 1985 and today is known in the U.S. for her many published articles about this free genealogy software program.

Contact Information:
Barbara Ann Renick,

311 Copa De Oro Drive,
Brea, CA 92823-7018
phone (714) 524-0364
cell phone (714) 273-0364
e-mail Barb@ZRoots.com
additional e-mail address barbz@earthlink.net
Barbara’s Web site is at: www.zroots.com/

Research Day at Mid-Continent Public Library's Genealogy Branch

Good news for researchers during the NGS 2008 Conference. Monday, May 12, will be a Research Day at Mid-Continent Public Library's Genealogy Branch. We will be open from 9am to 11pm for your research pleasure. Buses will be running continually throughout the day from the Hyatt Crown Center, beginning at 9 am. The last bus will run from the library at 11 pm, arriving at the Hyatt about 11:30 pm. Delicatessen lunches will be available for purchase (expect to pay between $5 and $10). Just let us know when you arrive if you would like lunch or dinner and we will let you know your options. If you want lunch, please let us know by 10am.

The library will also be open late for research on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings until 11:00 pm. Buses will run from the Hyatt Crown Center to the library from 4:30 pm - 11:30 pm.

On Wednesday evening there will be a special reception at the new Midwest Genealogy Center for those who have preregistered for the event. Buses will run from 4:30-8:00 pm making three stops - the Hyatt, the Midwest Genealogy Center, and the current library location. Come and be the first to see our new facility! We regret that we will not be open for research in our new location, but all of our materials will be available to you in the current location.


Contact information:
Janice Schultz
Genealogy Librarian
e-mail: jschultz@mcpl.lib.mo.us
Mid-Continent Public Library, Genealogy Branch
317 W. 24 Highway
Independence MO 64050
http://www.mcpl.lib.mo.us
Phone: (816) 252-7228;
Fax: (816) 254-7114

Genealogy Branch closing for move May 19-26. Reopening May 27, 2008.

Exhibitor Spotlight: The Gregath Publishing Company

Since 1970, The Gregath Publishing Company has had a two-fold goal: First, to provide quality service and products at affordable rates; Second, to assist each client in every way possible to ensure his or her book is a success. We have been involved in genealogical research, writing and teaching for over 50 years. We have enjoyed our affiliation with the original publishing and commercial printing industry for over 30 of those years. Four generations of our family have been active in the Gregath Publishing Company.

We are not a huge, automated clearinghouse where every book is just a job number. Every author is valued for his or her individuality and vision. With two generations of our family currently working in the business, we put a lot of family in the books we publish.

Our base of operations, was the first office to begin in-house production, has continued to grow in scope, equipment and size, while maintaining its one to one family business philosophy. The Eastern Division (Cullman, Alabama) formally closed January 26, 2001, making the Mid-West Division the only current Gregath Publishing Company office.

The Gregath Publishing Company deals primarily in printing and publishing, in the fields of genealogy and history. This includes books (original and reprint hardbound, softbound, electronic, etc.), monthly and quarterly publications, newsletters as well as more standard magazine formats. We require each employee to be knowledgeable in genealogy and history, as well as printing and reprint and original publishing, to insure the correctness and quality of the product and the satisfaction of our clients.

As a full service printer/publisher, the Gregath Publishing Company offers a wide variety of services and products to our clients. Many of these are included in our web site. We like to remind the public that there are numerous grades and colors of paper, inks, and cover materials available to them, from simple black and white to the more exotic combinations. Many of our staff is available as exhibitors, speakers or to consult on projects face-to-face. Additionally, the company offers hosted research travel packages, monthly online free magazine, as well as hosting an annual genealogy event to assist the genealogist. We look forward to serving you in every way that we can. We are anxious to help you in every way, to complete a successful project.

The Gregath Publishing Company

Printer, Publisher and Bookseller

918-542-4148

Speaker Spotlight: Kimberlee Ried

Kimberlee Ried is an Archives & Education Specialist for the Central Plains Region; she has been with the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) since 2003. She works in all aspects of the Regional Archives program including education, outreach, and development, as well as, answering reference inquiries. She is active in the local Federal Executive Board as a co-chair for the Federal Information Council and has served as coordinator for the region's Combined Federal Campaign program. Prior to joining NARA she was a Youth Services librarian at an urban public library. She holds a BA in History and Anthropology from the University of Missouri and a MA in Library Science from Emporia State University. Through her professional association activities Ms. Ried was selected to serve on the National Council on Social Studies-Archives Committee and is president-elect of the Missouri Library Association.

Additionally, within her extensive community volunteer work she is an active member of the Junior League of Kansas City, MO; volunteers for the Children's Center for Visually Impaired; the Kansas City Ballet; Truman Medical Center; Jackson County CASA; and maintains boardmanships on the following: Historic Kansas City Foundation; Heritage League and Wonderscope Children's Museum. She was born and raised in Kansas City and has canine children, Gracie and Wallis

Contact information:

Kimberlee N. Ried,

Archives & Education Specialist National Archives & Records Administration

Central Plains Region

2312 E. Bannister Road

Kansas City, MO 64131

Phone: 816.268.8072

www.archives.gov/central-plains

www.linkedin.com/pub/4/431/315

Kansas City has many great shopping areas!!

If you like to shop Kansas City won't disappoint you. For details about the areas listed below be sure to visit the websites indicated for each shopping area. Most also have a great selection of fine restaurants too.

• The Crown Center -This is the most conveniently located shopping area for conference attendees. It is connected via an enclosed walkway to both the Hyatt Regency Crown Center and the Westin Crown Center. It is of interest to note that Crown Center surrounds the worldwide headquarters of Hallmark Cards, Inc. Map.
• Country Club Plaza - Another very popular shopping area. It was established in 1922. It is comprised of a 15 blocks with more that 150 shops and dozens of restaurants. Map
• Legends at Village West in Kansas City, Kansas - across the river is a new shopping area with more than 90 shops. Map
• Zona Rosa - this area is on the north side of Kansas City - Click here for driving directions.

These are just a few of the popular shopping areas in Kansas City.

Exhibitor Spotlight: St. Louis Genealogical Society

The St. Louis Genealogical Society is a not-for-profit, all volunteer organization with more than 2,000 members in almost every state and several foreign countries. Begun in 1967, it is now the largest local genealogical society in the United States, renowned for its excellence in programs, resources, classes, and membership services. More than 20,000 books of the StLGS collection are housed in the Special Collections Department at the St. Louis County Library Headquarters.

Speaker Spotlight: Mary Clement Douglass

Mary Clement Douglass, Certified Genealogist, is owner of Historical Matters - Historical and Genealogical Research in Kansas. She is a researcher, teacher, author, architectural historian, and curator. She is past chair of the Salina Heritage Commission, former Architectural Historian for the City of Salina, and author of Historic Resources Survey, Part II Salina, KS 1984-85. She is a former board member of the Association of Professional Genealogists, the Genealogical Speakers Guild, and the Kansas Council of Genealogical Societies.

Mary lectures nationally on genealogical methodology. Mary revised the "Kansas" chapter in Ancestry's Red Book, Third Edition, 2004. Her article, "Genealogical Research in Kansas," was published in the National Genealogical Society Quarterly, June 2004. Her articles have appeared in Ancestry, Everton's Genealogical Helper, and Family Chronicle magazines.

Less than 30 days to the NGS 2008 Conference -- Conference Tips

By now you should be registered for the conference, you should have your hotel reservations and your travel arrangements made. Now is the time to start thinking seriously about what you want to do during that conference week. Here are some tips to help make your conference experience GREAT!

• Check your schedule again to make sure you have the registered for sessions you want.
• Be sure to use the online planner availabe at: https://www.eshow2000.com/ngs/networking_login.cfm
• Check meals you have registered for -- you may want to think about adding meals.
• Check your genealogy records -- do you need to do some research while in Kansas City?
• Check the official conference website for the latest announcements: http://www.eshow2000.com/ngs/
• Make sure you have some cards with your contact information to hand out to those who may want to contact you after the conference. This tip is not just for those that are in business!
• Prepare some pedigree charts or family groups sheets to share with others you meet at the conference.
• Check the web for restaurants near the Hyatt -- this link may help: http://crowncenter.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/services/local/dining/index.jsp
• If you are looking for other activities for after the conference check this webpage: http://crowncenter.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/services/local/attractions/listings.jsp
• Do you like to shop -- you will want to visit: http://www.crowncenter.com/
• Do you have any friends who live in the area -- make plans to see them!
• Plan what you are going to wear to the conference. Dressing in layers is best for a variety of conditions. Plan to wear comfortable shoes.
• Read the conference Syllabus as soon as it is available. The Conference Syllabus is available on CD only. Access to the syllabus in pdf format will be made available online to all pre-registered attendees at least 3 weeks prior to the conference. You will be notified via e-mail when access is available.

Readers -- Do you know of restaurants, activities, good ideas that made your conference experience enjoyable? If you have other conference tips please send them to me at smiller@stjoelive.com. They will be added to future Conference Tips postings.

Speaker Spotlight: Angela McComas

Angela McComas started working in family research about twelve years ago, researching for herself and friends. She is now a full-time researcher and program developer at the Genealogy & Local History Branch of Mid-Continent Public Library in Independence, MO, one of the top ten genealogy libraries in the nation. Angela teaches genealogy classes through out the Midwest and has been published in several venues. She can be contacted through her website at http://www.kcgenealogy.com/

Speaker Spotlight: John Philip Colletta

John Philip Colletta is a Washington-based genealogist whose interest in family history goes back to his boyhood in Buffalo. His father's family was Sicilian, his mother's Bavarian, Alsatian and Swiss, and John was curious to learn how all these ancestors happened to converge in western New York. His research began in U.S. records. Then, while a graduate student in Paris, he ventured into the primary sources of Italy, Germany and France.

After serving in the U.S. Army, John completed his Doctorate in Medieval French Literature at the Catholic University of America. From 1984 through 2005 he conducting workshops for the National Archives and taught courses for the Smithsonian Institution. Now he lectures nationally to genealogical, historical and ethnic societies. He is a faculty member of the Institute of Genealogy and Historical Research at Samford University in Birmingham, AL, and the Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy in Salt Lake City, UT. He has also coordinated and taught courses for the National Institute on Genealogical Research at the National Archives (Washington, DC), the Institute of Genealogical Research (Dallas, TX), and the Genealogical Institute of Mid-America (Springfield, IL). His areas of expertise include: tracing families of continental European origin, especially nineteenth century; federal records; and writing a narrative family history that is both a reliable document and a readable story.

Dr. Colletta has published many articles in both popular and scholarly magazines. He contributed the chart "How to Find Your Immigrant Ancestr's Ship" to a permanent exhibit on Ellis Island and his related book They Came in Ships: A Guide to Finding Your Immigrant Ancestor's Arrival Record, first published in 1989 by Ancestry, Inc. is not available in an updated and expanded 3rd edition. His book, Finding Italian Roots: The Complete Guide for Americans, first published in 1993 by Genealogical Publishing Co. is now available in an updated and expanded 2nd edition. Only a Few Bones: A True Account of the Rolling Fork Tragedy and Its Aftermath, published in 2000. This book is a narrative history that reads like a murder mystery that recounts the mysterious disappearance of a Mississippi ancestor during Reconstruction.

Dr. Colletta has been interviewed on Voice of America--Europe, National Public Radio, and has appeared on local and national television, including NBC's "Today" show. He is featured in Episode Four of "Ancestors," the ten-part KBYU-TV series that aired in 1997 and its sequel that aired in 2000. His national popularity as a speaker may be attributed to the warmth and wit, humor and humanity, which characterize his approach to the adventure of discovering ancestors.

Civil War Reenactment: Stand of Colors

We know you won't want to miss a single session at the NGS 2008, however, you might want to plan an extra day in Kansas City if you are a Civil War buff. "Stand of Colors" a Civil War Reenactment of the Missouri / Kansas of 1864 is happening the same weekend as the NGS conference. For more information see their website: http://www.standofcolors.com/.

Exhibitor Spotlight: RootsMagic, Inc.

For over 20 years, RootsMagic, Inc. has been creating computer software with a special purpose - to unite families. One of our earliest products - the popular "Family Origins" software, introduced thousands of people to the joy and excitement of family history. That tradition continues today with RootsMagic 4, the new version of our award-winning genealogy software for Windows. Don't miss this chance to see the most exciting version of RootsMagic ever as we teach classes and do in-booth demonstrations. Come see why beginners and professional genealogists alike call RootsMagic the best genealogy software they've ever seen. Visit us at http://www.RootsMagic.com or visit us in booth 403.

New To Genealogy?

The conference offers a great way for beginners to get off to the right start in genealogy. Sign up for the Beginner Genealogy Workshop on Saturday morning from 8:00 - 11:00 a.m. Register as late as 7:00 - 8:00 a.m. Saturday just before the workshop. Conducted by Connie Lenzen and Lynda Childers Suffridge, attendees will learn how to organize what they know and to search for what they don't know. They will learn about many sources available with or without a computer. This workshop is limited to 50 participants, and registration for the rest of the conference is not required.

Exhibitor Spotlight: New England Historic Genealogical Society

The New England Historic Genealogical Society, founded in 1845, is the country's oldest and largest non-profit genealogical organization. With more than 20,000 members nationally, NEHGS collects, preserves, and interprets materials to help make accessible the histories of families in America. Located in Boston, the NEHGS research library houses more than 12 million books, journals, photographs, documents, records, and microfilms, and boasts one of the largest manuscript collections in the country, covering more than four centuries of local and family history.

Speaker Spotlight: Craig H. Miller

Craig H. Miller currently serves as Director of Product Management for FamilySearch. He is responsible for the research, development, introduction, and maintenance of family history products and services worldwide. Prior to working for FamilySearch, Craig was the Vice President and General Manager of the Net Management Division for Novell, Inc. In this position he was responsible for all aspects of the business interests of this division, including strategy, research and development, product positioning, pricing, and product marketing for twelve product lines that shipped in twenty-three different languages.

During his tenure at Novell, Craig also served as Vice President of Engineering, Director of Engineering, program manager, engineering manager, and senior software engineer.

Mr. Miller graduated from the University of Utah with a degree in electrical engineering.

Exhibitor Spotlight: ACCLAIM Press

Acclaim Press was established in 2005 when long-time history publishers Doug Sikes and Keith Steele joined forces to become a leading publisher of collectors quality county and city histories, American history, and military history in addition to specialty titles ranging from sports to travel.

Acclaim Press has published history books for numerous counties throughout Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee and Arkansas. The books are usually published in cooperation with the local county historical or genealogical society. They contain the county, community, business, church, school, club/organization, and especially family histories, each section accompanied by many historical pictures to document the foundation, growth and change of the community. These history books record the lineage of families along with treasured family photos. They are large, luxurious, coffee-table books, and many have already become collector’s items upon publication.

Military history and biography titles covering the Civil War, WWII, and the Vietnam War include titles such as Lloyd Tilghman, As You Were, and Mobile Riverine Operations. With the Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial beginning in 2008, Acclaim Press is releasing Through the Eyes of Lincoln and Lincoln and the Speeds. Upcoming specialty histories include that of the Baltimore County Maryland Police, Sons of the American Revolution, and Louisville Police Department.

Some biographies are A Beautiful Journey by Lucille Carloftis, The Butcher Burbridge by Bryan S. Bush, Born Amish by Ruth Irene Garrett, Gene Bess, by N.H. Roberts and C.A. Richardson. Nature is at its best in glorious color in Red River Gorge and Kentucky Unbridled Spirit and Beauty. The best-selling Eating Your Way Across Kentucky- 101 Must Places to Eat with its sequel Eating Your Way Across Kentucky-THE RECIPES have led hungry travelers to culinary delight.

A new history about the lost silver mines of Kentucky and their uncanny similarities to the famous pirate Long John Silver from Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island is creating a remarkable stir in historians and treasure hunters across the country.
Acclaim Press is actively looking at many more subjects and communities of which to create its Next Great Book. Yours could be next. Inquiries are welcome, 1-877-4 AP Book.

Speaker Spotlight: Roberta "Bobbi" King

Roberta "Bobbi" King is the descendant of three Nebraska homesteaders. Her homestead research, articles, and lectures reflect her avid interest in the settlers who took advantage of the federal government's idea of providing yeoman farmers a permanent home within the great American landscape.

She lectures locally and nationally on federal land records, and is the author of the NGS Nebraska Researching in the States research guide. She is a regular contributor to the quarterly of the Association of Professional Genealogists. Bobbi is a member of the board of directors for the Federation of Genealogical Societies, where she serves as FGS parliamentarian and editor of the Society Strategies Series papers. She has served as a volunteer and officer for numerous local Colorado genealogical organizations.

Bobbi is a career medical technologist working for Kaiser Permanente in Denver. She lives in Lakewood where she shares a home with her Better Half, Will. She is a mother and grandmother, dividing her time among grandchildren, genealogy, and career.

Roberta "Bobbi" King

3161 S. Indiana St.

Lakewood CO 80228

720.839.4952

Rking24600@aol.com

Transportation to Hotels

Taxis:

Taxis are available from the airport. If no taxis are lined up when you arrive at the airport, there is a telephone just outside the airport that you can place a call through to order a taxi. The wait is usually very short. Taxi fares are around $35 - $40.

Cars/Ride Services:

Quicksilver Airport Service913-262-0905 or 1-800-888-8294reservations@kcquicksilver.comwww.kcquicksilver.comTo make reservations online go to: http://kcquicksilver.hudsonltd.net/res?USERIDENTRY=4044@LOGON=GO (ID number is 4044)From Kansas City International Airport to the Hyatt Regency Crown Center the fare is $26.50 for one passenger. Another passenger (from the same flight only), is an additional $7.50.Van rental for 6 passengers arriving together is also available.


Shuttle Bus Service:

KCI SHUTTLE (Hours 5:50am-11:25pm)$16.00 per person - $27.00 round trip per person. Leaves from Baggage Claim area at 5 minutes to the hour and 25 minutes after the hour. Reservations are not required. For additional info, please call KCI Shuttle service at 800-243-6383. SHUTTLE SERVICE IS WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE WITH CHAIR LIFTS* (Maroon vans and buses with yellow lettering that says KCI Shuttle.)


Train Travel:

AMTRAK SPECIAL RATES FOR NGS ATTENDEES:Amtrak is offering a 10% discount off the lowest available rail fare to Kansas City, between 8 May to 21 May 2008. To book your reservation call Amtrak at 1 800 872-7245 or contact Nancy Mettes, NGS conference official travel agent, at nancy.mettes@damartravel.com. Please refer to Conventino Fare Code XO7S-933. See Information for Passenger and Convention Fare Request Form for further information.

Taxis from Union Station to othe hotel are approximately $2.00 fare.

Update from Mid-Continent Public Library - Genealogy Branch

The Genealogy Branch of Mid-Continent Public Library will be staying open in its current location through the NGS conference. We had hoped to be moved before then, but the construction is taking longer than anticipated.

Hours during the conference week are as follows:

9a-11pm Monday May 12, Tuesday May 13, and Wednesday May 14
9am-9pm Thursday May 15
9a-6pm Friday May 16
9a-5pm Saturday May 17

Shuttle buses will be available free of charge on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday from the Hyatt Crown Center to MCPL. We hope to have a reception at our new building the evening of May 14, if we have possession of it by that time. Watch the conference blog for further updates.

For more information please contact:

Janice Schultz
Genealogy Librarian
jschultz@mcpl.lib.mo.us

Mid-Continent Public Library, Genealogy Branch http://www.mcpl.lib.mo.us/
317 W. 24 Highway
Independence MO 64050

Phone: (816) 252-7228; Fax: (816) 254-7114

Genealogy Branch closing for move in Spring 2008 - Call before scheduling a visit.

AMTRAK Convention Fare Request Form

AMTRAK

NATIONAL RAILROAD PASSENGER CORPORATION7920 Lindbergh Drive
Riverside, CA 92508

CONVENTION FARE REQUEST FORM

Please note: Requests for Convention Fares may not be accepted more than 11 months in advance or less than 14 “business days” prior to the convention.

Attn: Convention Sales
FAX number: 800-872-3298
E-mail: ConventionFareDesk@Amtrak.com

ALL REQUESTS MUST BE IN WRITINGand forwarded by E-mail, Fax or US Mail
(Please TAB to each field and complete requested information)

Today’s Date:

NAME OF ORGANIZER:



NAME OF ORGANIZATION:



STREET ADDRESS:

SUITE, APT, ROOM #:

CITY, STATE ZIP CODE:



CONTACT PHONE #:

CONTACT E-MAIL:



NAME OF CONVENTION:



CONVENTION START DATE:

CONVENTION END DATE:



DESTINATION AMTRAK CITY:



ESTIMATED CONVENTION ATTENDANCE:


REMARKS:

REQUESTED BY:

APPROVAL USE ONLY

TRAVEL DATES: _____________________________
APPROVED BY: ______________________________
DATE APPROVED: ____________________________
PHONE NUMBER:

E-MAIL:







If approved, the Convention Fare Authorization will be forwarded by either E-mail or US Mail to the Organizer/Marketing with the date of activation.

Afraid of Flying ~~ Take the Train!

AMTRAK
Group Sales Department
7920 Lindbergh Drive, Riverside, CA 92508

CONVENTION FARE DISCOUNT INFORMATION FOR PASSENGER

You may present this information to the Amtrak Ticket Agent or your
Travel Agent to assist them in providing you with this discount


Fare Code Number: X07S-933
Valid For Travel: May 8, 2008 – May 21, 2008

Amtrak Agents please refer to: (G/TAR/TA9/P33) -Arrow
~F12, Option 2, TAR, TA9, Page 33- Rail Res



NGS Convention & Conference

Amtrak offers a 10% discount off the lowest available rail fare to Kansas City,MO between the above dates. Includes travel up to three days prior to the convention start date and three days following the last day of the meeting. To book your reservation call Amtrak at 1 (800) 872-7245 or contact your local travel agent. Please refer to Convention Fare Code X07S-933 when making your reservation a 10% discount has been approved. Conventions cannot be booked via Internet. This offer is not valid on the Auto Train. Offer valid with Sleepers, Business Class or First Class seats with payment of the full applicable accommodation charges. Fare is valid on Amtrak Regional and Acela service for all departures seven days a week, except for holiday blackouts.

If you have any questions or need any further assistance, please feel free to contact us at 1-800-USA-1GRP (1-800-872-1477) Monday through Friday, 6:00am-4:30pm Pacific Time.

We look forward to having your group travel with Amtrak.

Respectfully,
Dolores Zamora
Group Sales Representative

Researching for your ancestors in the Kansas City Area

In one of the earlier blogs, I told you about historical societies and state archives in the Midwest. If you don’t have that much time you might want to research in the Kansas City area. There are lots of libraries and genealogical societies in the area that have great resources.

1. Midwest Genealogy Center: Although it is not yet open, this brand new state of the art genealogy facility is slated to open during the 2008 NGS conference. It is part of the Mid-Continent Public Library, which has had a genealogy collection for over 35 years. For more information about the types of materials available at the Mid-Continent Library visit their website.

2. National Archives and Records Administration – Central Plains Branch: This branch of NARA contains lots of information that is helpful to genealogists. They have a complete set of the U.S. census records on microfilm, military records and the Freedman’s Bureau records, censuses of the Northern Plains Indians and the Five Civilized Tribes, passenger arrival lists and naturalization records and much more. You can learn more about their holdings by reading their brochure.

3. Kansas City, Missouri Public Library located in downtown Kansas City has a large reference and genealogy collection. For information about their holdings visit their website.

4. Kansas City, Kansas Public Library houses the Kansas Collection. For information about the Kansas Collection check the website.

5. Northwest Missouri Genealogical Society in St. Joseph, Missouri: Less than 60 miles from the conference venue you will find the NWMGS library. This repository houses resources for the 9 Platte Purchase Counties in Missouri and adjacent Kansas Counties: Atchison, Nodaway, Worth, Gentry, Holt, Andrew, DeKalb, Clinton and Buchanan Counties in Missouri and Brown and Doniphan Counties in Kansas. They are also the official archive of Buchanan County, Missouri and have original court and marriage records.

6. Johnson County Genealogical Society – the society’s holdings are located at the Johnson County Public Library located in Shawnee Mission, Kansas.

7. University of Missouri at Kansas City houses some of the Western Historical Manuscript Collection. See this website too!

8. Jackson County, Missouri Historical Society in Independence: Be sure to contact them in advance to arrange time for a visit.

9. Church of the Nazarene World Headquarters Archive is located in Kansas City. For more information about their holdings check their website and it may be advisable to contact them in advance to make the best use of your time.

10. Don’t forget the local county courthouses. You will be in close proximity to the following courthouses in Missouri: Jackson, Johnson, Cass, Clay, Lafayette, Ray, Clinton, Platte and Buchanan and in Kansas: Doniphan, Atchison, Leavenworth, Wyandotte, Johnson and Miami.

These are only some of the places where you might find your Missouri / Kansas ancestors.

Kansas City Public Library - Missouri Valley Room (Local History & Genealogy)

Kansas City Public Library's Missouri Valley Room (Local History & Genealogy) invites you to come visit, use our collections, and see our beautiful new/old Central Library at 10th and Baltimore, downtown. The MAX (express) bus leaves from Crown Center every fifteen minutes. Get off at 12th and Main and you will be two blocks from the Library. The Library is a five minute taxi or car ride from Crown Center. For more information or to arrange for a tour call: 816-701-3427 or e-mail lhistory@kclibrary.org.

New Midwest Genealogy Center in Independence, Missouri

I have been getting some questions about the new facility that is part of the Mid-Continent Public Library system-----

It is going to be a fantastic place to do genealogical / historical research. The new facility will have over 50,000 square feet of space devoted to genealogical records.

The plans are that the facility will be opening for the 2008 NGS conference and the old facility will be closing this spring to move the materials at the present location to the new facility. For more information it is best to contact the staff at Midcontinent. The contact information and more details about the new facility are on their website:

http://www.mcpl.lib.mo.us/genlh/mgc.htm

Be sure to check all the links listed on the Midcontent Public Library site regarding the new facility.

Exhibitor Spotlight: New England Historic Genealogical Society

The New England Historic Genealogical Society, founded in 1845, is the country's oldest and largest non-profit genealogical organization. With more than 20,000 members nationally, NEHGS collects, preserves, and interprets materials to help make accessible the histories of families in America. Located in Boston, the NEHGS research library houses more than 12 million books, journals, photographs, documents, records, and microfilms, and boasts one of the largest manuscript collections in the country, covering more than four centuries of local and family history.

2008 BCG Education Fund Workshop at Kansas City

Evidence Evaluation -Barbara J. Mathews, CG

Students in the Hands-on workshop on evidence evaluation will have the opportunity to support different points-of-view based on analysis of documents supplied in the syllabus. We will investigate situations in which all evidence is in agreement, in which some evidence is in conflict, and for which only indirect evidence is available. After supporting their points of view in small group discussions, students will plan proof summaries.

Genealogical Documentation: What, Why, and How - Thomas W. Jones, Ph.D, CG, CGL

Participants in this hands-on workshop will learn the principles of documenting compiled genealogies, reports, lineages, and other written genealogical products. The session will cover when and what to document and the formats for documenting different kinds of sources.

Register for the workshops at the NGS website, www.ngsgenealogy.org. Attendance is limited to 60.

Special Guest to Welcome Conference Attendees

Harry S. Truman, portrayed by Niel Johnson, will be on hand to welcome conference attendees at the Tuesday evening, May 13, Wine & Cheese Reception sponsored by the Missouri State Genealogical Association [MoSGA]. You can register for the reception at http://www.ngsgenealogy.org/

Niel M. Johnson is a retired archivist and historian at the Truman Presidential Library & Museum and a Truman re-enactor. He has re-released his book "Power, Money and Women: Words to the Wise from Harry S. Truman," published by Leathers Publishing.

Niel began portraying Truman following his retirement in 1993. Since then he has portrayed Harry S. Truman for service organizations, and veterans, church, school and social groups. In 1994 Niel portrayed Truman at a re-enactment of the Democratic convention of 1944 in Chicago and in 1996 he participated at a banquet preceding the christening of the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman at the Newport News shipyard in Virginia.

Make plans now to attend the MoSGA Wine & Cheese Reception where you can speak with 'Harry Truman' and learn his views on women in politics and how he might view the current political arena. The event runs from 5:00pm to 7:00pm.

Martha Henderson
MoSGA President

Speaker Spotlight: David W. Jackson

David W. Jackson's childhood hobby of genealogy became the catalyst for his career path. He was graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science degree in historic preservation in 1993. He is director and archivist of "The Orderly Pack Rat," an historical research and consulting service he founded in 1996 (www.orderlypackrat.com).

Since 2000, he has served as Archives and Education Director for the Jackson County (Mo.) Historical Society, in Independence, Missouri (www.jchs.org). David is also author and publisher of, "Direct Your Letters to San Jose: The California Gold Rush Letters of James and David Lee Campbell, 1849-1852;" and, "Recipes of Our Past: Morsels from Our Grandmothers' Recipe Boxes."

Don't want to fly to Kansas City -- Take the Train!!

For anyone who would rather take the train to NGS 2008 --- A special discount is available!!

Our travel agent, Nancy Mettes, has arranged a special discount on Amtrak for our conference attendees to travel to Kansas City, MO. Anybody interested should contact Nancy Mettes at Nancy.Mettes@damartravel.com.


The discount is for 10% on Amtrak to Kansas City, Valid for travel 8 -21 May 2008.

Speaker Spotlight: Jeanne Bloom

Jeanne Larzalere Bloom, CG(SM) is a full-time professional researcher specializing in Illinois (particularly Cook County), problem solving, and compiling multi-generational family histories. As a case manager for the American History Company, she works for the Repatriation and Family Affairs Division of the Army Casualty and Memorial Affairs Operation to determine the Primary Next of Kin on to identify eligible family members that can provide Family Reference Samples (mtDNA) to aid in the possible identification of unaccounted for soldiers from World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War of the soldier. Her other clients include authors, professional genealogists, heir-search firms, and family researchers in the United States and internationally. She is a member of NGS, BCG, APG, GSG, ISFHWE, is a multi-year alumnus of IGHS at Samford, and an alumnus of NIGR.

Contact information: Jeanne Bloom, CG;2666 East 73rd Street; Apartment 11-W; Chicago, IL 60649-2732; 773-221-4545; fax 773-768-8034; jl-bloom@mindspring.com

Exhibitor Spotlight: Jamestowne Society Kansas-Missouri Company

The purpose of the Jamestowne Society is to honor the early settlers, who have been documented as having lived on Jamestowne Island between 1607 and 1699, either as land owners or as members of the House of Burgesses or as other officials.

The objects of the Kansas-Missouri Company along with all the other Jamestowne Companies are: "To discover and record the names of all living descendants of those early settlers who made great sacrifices to establish our English speaking nation; and to unite these descendants to honor the memory of their settler ancestors, to record their deeds, and to do homage to the birthplace of Virginia and the Nation."

Jane Burrell - Past GovernorJamestowne Society - Kansas-Missouri Company

What is there to do in KC ???

Is there anything else to do in Kansas City? The answer to that question is YES!!!! There is so much else for those of you, who want to spend time doing something other than genealogy. In case you are not familiar with the area here are some ideas that might not come to mind.

· Powell Gardens – a perfect place for those of you who love flowers, trees and other plants
· Nelson – Atkins Art Museum – you should not miss this if you are an art enthusiast
· Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art – new and unique art
· Kansas City Blues and Jazz – for evening entertainment you may want to find a local night spot to listen to some great music. There is an article in Wikipedia that lists some of the favorite spots http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kansas_City_blues_(music)
· For those bringing children
o Science City – this is a fun place for children and adults
o Kansas City Zoo
o Oceans of Fun and Worlds of Fun
· History Buffs - the National Agricultural Hall of Fame is in the Kansas City metro area and has interesting things for adults and children or how about a drive 75 miles NE to historic Jamesport, Missouri and visit the Amish. If you don’t have time to drive that far, St. Joseph, Missouri is only 45 miles from Kansas City and has several interesting museums including the Pony Express Stable, the Patee House Museum and the Jesse James home as well as the Robidoux Row Museum.
· Antiquing – if you like to shop for antiques there are many great stores in the area. One of the best places to go is the historic town of Weston. Much of this historic town has been turned in to antique stores. Another great place is the River Market Antique Mall.
· Sports – If you are interested in sporting events you might consider checking schedules for the Kansas City Royals, Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, Woodlands Racetrack, NASCAR or spend some time at one of Missouri’s lakes for fishing and water sports.
· Theater / Concerts – The Broadway musical Wicked will be playing in Kansas City, MO or check out the schedules at some of the other local theaters including Starlight Theater, Kansas City Repertory Theater, New Theater Restaurant or the Unicorn Theater.

Watch the blog for information about places to eat and shop in Kansas City.

Speaker Spotlight: Edwin F. Bailey, Jr.

Edwin F. Bailey Jr. began his professional career as an elementary teacher in the St. Louis Public Schools. After seven years of teaching, Bailey moved into the higher education arena, first with the University of Missouri-St. Louis where he served for four years as a financial aid administrator, and later with St. Louis Community College where he continued his career in financial aid administration. In 1991, Bailey became Dean for Student Development Services at the Meramec Campus of the College where he served until his retirement in June of 2006.

Bailey’s interest in the Buffalo Soldiers spans over two decades. Since first learning about their legacy, he has been on a continuing quest to engage in research, and to share with others the richness of the African-American presence in U.S. military history. Over the last fifteen years, Bailey has presented for elementary, high school and college classes, church groups, civic and community groups, military organizations and the Missouri History Museum. He holds a Bachelors Degree in Education from Harris Teachers’ College, a Master’s Degree in Guidance and Counseling from the University of Missouri-St. Louis and a Ph.D. in Public Policy Analysis and Administration from Saint Louis University.

Exhibitor Spotlight: Generation Maps

Be sure to bring your computer file!! Generation Maps, your comprehensive genealogy chart printers, will be printing charts at the NGS conference in Kansas City. No need to process your information any special way, just bring any genealogy data file and tell us how you want your chart to look, and it will be printed while you wait. A chart is a wonderful, easy way to explain to your family members the research that has been accomplished. Generation Maps will also be selling their easy to use kits for beautiful decorative charts and Canvas Giclee fine art photo reproductions. The kits make great gifts and allow the user to work with the design professionals at Generation Maps to make a one of a kind expression of their family. Let Generation Maps help you get your research out where you can see it and surround your family with a sense of their heritage.

NGS 2008 Checklist - Planning for a Great Time at NGS 2008!!

Just a little advance planning can make the difference between a just so – so experience and a GREAT experience. The NGS 2008 conference is just 5 months away. Now is the time to spend a little effort to plan a GREAT experience in Kansas City. Use the Checklist provided below to make your plans.

1. Make your Hotel Reservations - Now!!!!!

2. Register for the Conference – Now!!! Early bird discount ends 31 March 2008.

3. Plan your travel – will you fly, drive, take the train -- yes AMTRAK goes to Kansas City! You may be able to find bargains on airfare with early planning.

4. Plan a few extra days for researching in nearby State repositories ---Just to start your planning, the mileage to 10 great repositories is listed below :

• Missouri State Archives – Jefferson City, MO <>
• Missouri State Historical Society – Columbia, MO <>
• Kansas State Historical Society and Archives – Topeka, KS <>
• Nebraska State Historical Society – Lincoln, NE <>
• Iowa - State Historical Society of Iowa – Des Moines, IA <>
• The National Genealogical Society collection is housed in St. Louis at the St. Louis County, Library <>
• Illinois State Archives – Springfield, IL <>
• Oklahoma State Archives - Oklahoma City, OK <>
• Arkansas History Commission – Little Rock, AR <325>
• Minnesota Historical Society – St. Paul, MN <>
• Colorado State Archives – Denver, CO <>

5. Check out tour guides for other things to do – shopping, jazz, great restaurants, history, art, other conventions, visit friends / relatives, resorts, visit Branson and so much more.

6. If you plan to do some research – organize your work and make a list of documents you want to find. Find out when various libraries, courthouses and other repositories are open.

7. Study maps of the area to plan your side trips.

8. Plan your conference wardrobe – be sure to dress comfortably and in layers. The weather can be variable in May so you will want to bring some clothes for both warm and cool days. Bring comfortable shoes.

9. Some other things you might want to bring with you if you are going to be doing any research --- research checklist, magnifying glass, laptop or genealogy forms / charts to record information, maps

10. Bring your camera, batteries, charger, film, etc.

Most important -- Rest before you leave so you are in top shape for four great days at NGS 2008!!

Speaker Spotlight: John Humphrey

John Humphrey is a professional genealogist who is an entertaining and knowledgeable speaker. He has lectured nationally for many years.


Mr. Humphrey's research specialties include eighteenth-century Palatines and Pennsylvania as well as nineteenth-century Germans. He has authored numerous books and articles. Humphrey specializes in German research at the Library of Congress, the National Archives, and record repositories in eastern Pennsylvania and southwestern Germany. He is a member of the National Genealogical Society and the Association of Professional Genealogists. In 2001 he lead an NGS research trip to Northern Germany. Currently he is working on records created prior to the Second World War of interest to genealogists in the United States and Germany.


This award winning author has managed several, local and regional conferences. He is president of the Mid-Atlantic Germanic Society and a past vice president of the Genealogical Society of Pennsylvania. He was manager of the National Genealogical Society Learning Center in Arlington, Virginia and he has appeared on national television and public radio where he discussed various aspects of genealogy.

Pre-conference programs – Something for Everyone

We hope you plan to come early and take advantage of one of the other programs offered the day before the NGS conference starts. There are three programs for your choice.

· Option 1: See some local historical sites in the Kansas City area. This tour is on Tuesday, 13 May 2008. You will visit the Truman Presidential Museum and see his nearby home. From there you will visit the National Frontier Trails Museum. Then after lunch (on your own) you will tour the Arabia Steamboat Museum.

· Option 2: Librarian Day will also take place on Tuesday, 13 May 2008. Open to all librarians and library volunteers. The program will offer ideas for librarians working with limited resources; ideas for providing information for genealogists and online resources available to libraries for genealogy. Lunch will be provided.

· Option 3: If you would like to make use of your time to improve your skills, why not sign up for a day long workshop hosted by the Board of Certification of Genealogists (BCG). Dr. Thomas Jones, CG, CGL, FASG and Barbara Mathews, CG have a great session planned for you. You will work through hands on exercises to practice evaluating evidence and learn proper documentation of genealogical research. Lunch will be provided. For more information check the website at: www.bcgcertification.org/educationfund/index/htm


For your convenience you may register for these events by checking the official NGS 2008 conference website at:
http://www.eshow2000.com/ngs/conf_program.cfm.

Exhibitor Spotlight: GenealogyBank.com

Offering easy access to 200 million U.S. genealogical records from 1690 to the present, GenealogyBank.com helps researchers uncover fascinating details about their ancestors’ lives. Genealogists can find, browse, copy and email digital images from over 2,200 newspapers and a wide variety of military and government documents, including obituaries, marriage notices, birth announcements and more. Go to:

www.GenealogyBank.com <http://www.GenealogyBank.com> for more information, or visit booth #212.

Speaker Spotlight: Kelvin Hulet

Kelvin Hulet is the Product Manager for Ancestry Press and was also a Product Manager at Ancestry.com for image-based content such as ship photos, postcards, maps, yearbooks and more. Prior to working at Ancestry.com he owned a digital printing business that specialized in printing for the genealogy industry.

Speaker Spotlight: Thomas W. Jones

Thomas W. Jones, Ph.D., CG, CGL, is joint editor of the National Genealogical Society Quarterly, former trustee and a past president of the Board for Certification of Genealogists, board member of the Association of Professional Genealogists, and recipient of its 2004 Grahame T. Smallwood Jr. Award of Merit. An active genealogist since his teens, Tom’s research has encompassed records of every state east of the Mississippi, as well as Iowa, Missouri, Texas, France, Germany, Italy, and Ireland. He specializes, however, in Georgia and Virginia research. Tom writes and speaks frequently on genealogical methods that have broad application across geographic areas, time periods, and levels of expertise. He recently retired from a career in higher education.

Vendors – Everything you ever wanted for Family History Research

You may still be undecided about attending NGS 2008. You may think you can read the abstracts and purchase the tapes, but one thing you can’t do from home ~~ you can’t visit the booths sponsored by the vendors at NGS 2008. The vendor display itself is like a Genealogy Show!! This year there will be about 100 vendor booths and thousands of great products on display at this year’s conference. The exhibits will be in Exhibit Hall A at the Hyatt with many hours for your viewing pleasure.

For your convenience a schedule, listing of vendors and map of vendor locations is available at the following websites:

· Schedule: http://www.eshow2000.com/ngs/exhibits.cfm
· List of Exhibitors: http://www.eshow2000.com/ngs/exhibitor_list.cfm
· Map of Exhibits: http://www.eshow2000.com/ngs/booth_locator.cfm

Why not take some time now in the comfort of your home and plan which booths you will need to visit while attending the conference. Watch the 2008 NGS Conference Blog for features about some of the exhibitors who will be in Kansas City.

Speakers, Speakers, Speakers ---- Just to name a few!!

We have many well known speakers you won’t want to miss hearing. Be sure to check the 2008 NGS Blog often for features about some of the speakers. Our keynote speaker opening “Show me the Nation’s Records” is Dr. Robert Sandfort, President of the Friends of the Missouri State Archives. He will set the stage for this year’s conference with his talk about history of the settlement of the Missouri Valley. You will want to hear him tell about the arrival of the early pioneers and their influence on the settlement along both sides of the Missouri River from St. Louis to Kansas City.

If you have German ancestry you won’t want to miss at least one of Dr. Roger P. Minert’s presentations. Improve your skills by attending sessions presented by Dr. Thomas Jones, CG, CGL, FASG; Connie Lenzen, CG; Barbara Vines Little, CG; Elizabeth Shown Mills, CG,CGL, FNGS, FAS; Paula Stewart-Warren, CG; and others. For more about Midwest research you will want to hear Robert de Beradinis; Evie Bresette, CG; Mary Clement Douglass, CG; Ann Fleming, CG; Kathy Hinckley, CG; and others.

Increase your computer / software skills by attending sessions by these experts –
· Suzanne Russo Adams, AG, (Ancestry.com)
· Pamela Boyer, CG, CGL and Robert Sayre, CG (Google Earth)
· Bruce Buzbee (RootsMagic)
· Geoff Rasmussen (Legacy)
· Barbara Renick – learn about scanning, downloading, using PowerPoint,
· Jeanne Bloom, CG – learn to put MS Excel to work for your genealogical studies
· David Humphreys (Family Tree Maker)
· Thomas Jay Kemp (GenealogyBank)
· Elizabeth Kelly Kerstens, CG – using effective internet searches in your genealogy
· Debra Mieszala, CG – using MS WORD to present your genealogical research
· Patricia Walls Stamm, CG, CGL – presentation about more computer tips for working smart
· Aaron Underwood (GenSmarts)
· Bob Velke (The Master Genealogist)

This is only a few of the experts we have lined up to speak to you at “Show Me the Nation’s Records” in Kansas City, 14-18 May 2008. For a complete listing of the programs visit: http://www.eshow2000.com/ngs/conf_program.cfm.

Keep checking our Blog for Speaker Spotlights.

For Love, Not Money

Every genealogy conference—local, state or national—depends on the generosity of volunteers who give up a few hours to help. Please consider giving a little of your time while at the conference to assure that everyone has a great experience in Kansas City. We are assembling a group of wonderful people to help with hospitality, room monitoring, and registration tasks. Please send a note to Barbara Dale, Volunteers Co-chair, at bjpdale@sbcglobal.net to let us know of your interest and we will provide more detailed information and work with you to schedule times that suit.