Personal Historian 2 Software Released

SPRINGVILLE, Utah. — September 28, 2011 — RootsMagic, Inc. today announced the official release of Personal Historian 2, the latest version of the ground-breaking computer software which helps you write the story of your life and of other individuals.  Personal Historian breaks this seemingly monumental task into small, manageable pieces and then reconstructs it into a complete, publishable document.  With the release comes a free “Essentials” version of the software as well as a discount offer for new users and previous owners of the software.

Bring Life to Your Life Stories

“Many people want to write a personal history about themselves or family members but get lost or overwhelmed,” said Michael Booth, vice-president and lead developer of the software.  “It’s very gratifying to hear people tell us that they are finally able to write their life stories thanks to Personal Historian.”

Personal Historian creates an interactive timeline of a person’s life to keep the stories organized, give context to life events, and to allow users to write stories in any order they wish. When ready, Personal Historian will compile the stories into a finished book complete with table of contents, chapters, pictures, indexes, and more.  The book may then be printed at home, edited in a word processor, published professionally, or shared with friends and family.

New Features

“The new features in Personal Historian 2 have been worth the wait,” said Bruce Buzbee, president. “While we’ve added many new and powerful features, we’ve worked hard to make the software even easier to use than before.”

Personal Historian 2 boasts an impressive list of over 40 features including streamlined step-by-step wizards; expanded timelines and memory trigger questions; easy filtering and searching of stories; management of categories, people, and places; improved outlining and writing analysis; wrapping of text around pictures; fonts and text styles; and more-powerful publishing and output options.

Free “Personal Historian Essentials”

RootsMagic is also releasing a new, free edition of Personal Historian named, “Personal Historian Essentials”.  Personal Historian Essentials contains many core features from the Personal Historian software and the two products are fully-compatible with one another.  “We wanted to give everyone a risk-free option,” said Booth.  “Personal Historian Essentials is perfect for someone who wants to start writing a personal history but doesn’t know where to begin.”  Personal Historian Essentials is available for download athttp://www.personalhistorian.com.

Discount Offer

To celebrate it’s release, RootsMagic, Inc. is pleased to offer a special introductory offer for Personal Historian 2. Through October 31, 2011, Personal Historian 2 is available for a special introductory price of only $19.95, saving $10 off of the regular price.  The discount is available only on the Personal Historian website at http://www.personalhistorian.com or by calling 1-800-766-8762.

About 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”, our award-winning genealogy software which makes researching, organizing, and sharing your family history fun and easy. “Personal Historian” will help you easily write and preserve your life stories. “Family Reunion Organizer” takes the headaches out of planning those important get-togethers. And “Family Atlas” creates beautiful and educational geographic maps of your family history.

For more information, visit www.rootsmagic.com.

Source: RootsMagic, Inc.

Reasons for Not Attending RootsTech 2012

RootsTech 2012 is still several months out, but it continues to generate buzz around the blogisphere and throughout most major social media channels. The researcher in me is always monitoring the conversation, studying the market and checking the pulse of the genealogy field.

I love reading about what others think of RootsTech. The vast majority of feedback is positive, but there is a small hesitation that exists in the corner of the discussion. Here are some of the reasons I've encountered for why some folks won't be coming to RootsTech 2012.

"I'm not a techie."
RootsTECH: the name alone is enough to scare off folks who feel their technological expertise is not adequate for the event. But look at the banner above. It says "family history and technology conference." It is a mix of these glorious things. If you're not a techie, this is the best place to get an introductory look at these tools that can help with your family history. The RootsTech "user" crowd is not a group of experts who speak a strange language. They are all regular people like you and me who enjoy family history and want to learn how to improve the experience.

"I don't want to deal with the snow."
Who does? When it comes to cold weather, I'm quite the sissy. Last year's RootsTech was surprisingly warm. The days were in the 40+ degree range, but the sun made it feel warmer. On the chance that it does snow, it generally doesn't stay down long, and the kind folks of Salt Lake City have the sidewalks cleaned asap. This I learned from another trip to town. While it is possible for a snow shower, the chances of an all-out multi-day blizzard are slim. Don't miss out on the opportunities in life because you're worried about what *might* happen.

"It's just not for me."
Yes it is. I've heard this statement in several discussion venues and to each and every one of you I say "yes it is." If you use a computer in any way, shape or form (even just barely), this conference is for you. Do you use family tree software? Do you have opinions on this software? Do you ever wish the developer would fix or improve certain features of the genealogy tools you use? RootsTech gives you the chance to interact with these people face-to-face. You don't have to understand the code or fancy language, just give them your feedback and suggestions. What other event allows you to do this?

Are you a professional genealogist (or on the path to being one)? Then RootsTech is for you. Part of being a researcher is being aware of the latest tools and technology available to you and your clients. Researchers in other fields understand that staying current is necessary to remain relevant and competitive in the industry. The same goes for professional genealogists.

"I can't afford it."
I get this one. When money is tight, conference attendance is but a dream. However, you can accomplish this goal with patience and determination. If RootsTech 2012 is out of the question, get out a coin jar and label it RootsTech 2013.  Start putting your spare change in there now. Next year at this time, count that change. If you have enough, then you're good to go. If not, re-label the jar RootsTech 2014. You will get there, trust me. Recently, I rolled over $200 worth of coins.

The RootsTech Early Bird rate is $129. Loyal readers of my blog know at one point, the rate was $99. That's $33 per day for a national genealogy conference! They even have a sharply discounted $35 student pass. You can't beat that, folks. Time to get out the jar.

One last thought:
I really believe in the RootsTech concept. It emphasizes discussion and exploration in a field that is ready for the mainstream spotlight. You don't just *attend* RootsTech, you participate in it and your input is greatly desired. You're presence makes it better.


[Disclosure: I am a RootsTech 2012 Official Blogger. However, this post is not influenced by the fact. These opinions are my own.  --Amy]

Busy Genealogy Weekend

My oh my this weekend went quickly.

Friday afternoon, I received my obituaries that I ordered online from Western Michigan Genealogical Society. I ordered five of them to pursue my husband's mother's line. These documents mark the beginning of my research on this branch. My husband's family history exists in states and countries that differ completely from my own ancestry. It's fun to look in places that are new to me.

On Friday evening, my family pursued our nearly weekly ritual of going to dinner and playing trivia. The game pits us against each other, as well as other bars and restaurants around the county. What made this night different was that my partner in genealogy crime, Caroline Pointer, stopped by to say hi. It's nice to have friends in all the right places. And she met Mr. Amy Coffin and can verify he is real.

After the late Friday antics, I got up early to make it to the Chaparral Genealogical Society meeting. Every seat was full and I had to sit in the back. I didn't mind it though because 1) it's good to see strong meeting attendance and 2) someone brought Shipley's donut holes and I was sitting right by them. Chaparral always has a good snack. The speaker talked about migration patterns and I learned that the society's Christmas party will be December 3. More on that later.

Sunday was rather quiet. It involved chores and a headache. In the afternoon, I began another client project. I really tried not to do any work stuff on Sunday, but when you enjoy what you do, it's difficult to say no.

What is missing from this weekend recap is any developments in my own family tree. I need to make time for my own research this week.

Tomorrow is already full with genealogy-related emails, research and the beginning of a new venture for me. I don't think I can talk about it yet, but it's very exciting. I promise to spill the beans when I get the all clear.

Tribute to the 1925 Iowa State Census

The world is full of beautiful things! Autumn leaves, rainbows, waterfalls and more. Guess what else is beautiful?

The 1925 Iowa census.

Why the appreciation all of a sudden? Well, my own ancestors came to Iowa from Luxembourg in the 1850's. Apparently, they weren't cold enough in the winter so they bailed for Minnesota after a few years. That's all the Iowa research I got to explore until now.

I am doing a project for another person that's all Iowa all the time. Iowa censuses play a prominent role in all lines of the family tree.

If you've never explored the 1925 Iowa census, here's why it's so special:

1. It's a bridge between the 1920 and 1930 federal censuses. I love all states that have their own censuses for this reason. Minnesota gets a nod here, too. The extra information can help narrow down a death date for someone who passed, or include a child who lived and died between federal censuses. The mid-decade census also narrows down location and marriage timelines for ancestors.

2. It provides detailed information on a subject's education. You will know if an adult attended a rural school, grade school, high school or college--and the highest grade completed. Details like these help shape portraits of your ancestors' lives.

3. It includes the names and birthplaces of a subject's parents, including women's maiden names. Oh, it's a lovely thing I tell ya. In doing this genealogy project, I've become very spoiled by the ease with which I can move back generations and use these details to secure birth, marriage, death records and more.

4. It includes the birthplaces and marriage location of a subject's parents. Not only do you get the names, you also learn where they were born. If it says Iowa in that column, you're free to look in the 1925 Iowa census for the subject's parents. If you find them, then the parents' parents will be listed as well.

My most magical experience so far with the 1925 census was the location of a 96 year-old woman in it. You bet it had her parents' names right there. Happy dances all around.

Montgomery County Library System October Family History Events

October is Family History Month. The Montgomery County (TX) Memorial Library System has a full slate of planned genealogy events throughout the month:

October 1 - Civil War research: 10 a.m. (Central Branch)

October 4 - Montgomery County Genealogical and Historical Society Meeting: 6:30 p.m. (Central Branch)

October 8 - Beginning genealogy: 10 a.m. (Central Branch)

October 15 - Montgomery County Heritage: 1 p.m. (Central Branch)

October 19 - Ancestry Library Edition: 2 p.m. (Tullis Branch)

October 22 - Lineage Day (Central Branch)

October 27 - Ancestry Library Edition: 2 p.m. (West Branch)

For more information, check out the Montgomery County Memorial Library System web page and join in the family history fun.

Fun with Search Terms

It's time for another round of "Fun with Search Terms!" People type certain words or phrases into search engines. If the combination is right, my blog turns up in the search results. Sometimes the searches are funny. Sometimes I can provide more information to users, if only they'd comment on my blog. Either way, I enjoy the process. Please note that these searches are anonymous so I don't know who is stumbling on my blog. I just comment in the hope that they find it again.

Now on with the show. Actual search phrases are in bold.

View from the Ontario Airtport (ONT)

ontario california mall
You're probably looking for Ontario Mills, but landed here because I once took and published the above picture on my blog.

"getting the most out of rootsmagic" worth it
Yes.

"joshua taylor" genealogy speaker fees
It's just a matter of going to his website and clicking the Booking and Fees page.

1920 census san pedro ca
You can find this on FamilySearch, but they don't make it easy to browse your way there. Here is the 1920 census. To get there, go to FamilySearch.org > Browse by location (USA) > Collections (Census & Lists) > United States Census, 1920. 

baerecke milwaukee

john b. lenertz from le sueur, mn

john robert williamson/sarah tate
Yet more examples of blog visitors searching for my exact ancestors without making contact. It never gets easier to see this happen. 


rootstech +vendor
According to the official RootsTech website, it looks like a current vendor list is not in the website yet, but they do have an exhibitor page. Last year, the detailed vendor information was not part of the website and I didn't know who was in the exhibit hall until I got there. At FGS2011, I asked a FamilySearch person if the vendor information could be released earlier so bloggers could make pre-conference contact and set up interviews. We'll see if that happens or not.

genealogy blobs ohio
Looks like I am the foremost authority on "genealogy blobs" now. This time, they're taking over Ohio. You can run, but you can't hide. I think Genealogy Blobs of Ohio would make a great title for a horror novel. Someone make that happen.


a deal you could refuse
A cross-country road trip with Andy Rooney where he drives, controls the radio and makes me stop at Shoney's for the early-bird discount.


Thanks for playing! 

I am an Official RootsTech 2012 Blogger

Great news! (Or unfortunate news, depending on your outlook on life) I have been named as an Official Blogger for RootsTech 2012.

What does this mean, Amy?
It means that I will periodically inform you about the happenings at the upcoming RootsTech conference, February 2-4 in Salt Lake City. This might include news, schedule updates, attendee perks and events, and more. I will also report from the conference for those at home.

How can I find out more about RootsTech?
Go to the RootsTech website and browse to your heart's content. The early-bird registration rate is $129 until November 30, 2011. That's quite a bargain for 3 whole days of top-notch presentations and exhibits.

What makes RootsTech different from other genealogy conferences?
The interaction and collaboration between tech developers and users. This may sound scary, but it's not. If you use any sort of technology (which is everyone who is reading this blog), then you and your opinions and preferences can influence this event. Take a look at the schedule, and be sure to attend the panel led by Jill Ball, because I'm on it along with some of my favorite bloggers.

Is there anything else?
Yes. I hope to see you in Salt Lake City, February 2-4, 2012.


[Disclosure: Official Blogger means that I received a complimentary registration to RootsTech. In return, I will publicize the event and share my observations. The over-enthusiasm is my own, as I wholeheartedly drink the RootsTech Kool-Aid.]

FGS2011: My Genspiration Session

I hosted a Genspiration session at the 2011 FGS conference and lived to tell about it.

It's not scary when you sign up to talk about something you love. I decided on blogs. Best practices, content, affiliates, layout, etc. Basically anything anyone wanted to talk about in regard to established blogs. There are several sessions and webinars out there dedicated to helping people start blogs, but not much help for succeeding at the next step. Why not start a dialogue?

I reserved a slot on the big poster board placed prominently at the entrance of the exhibit hall. Then I waited to see who would show up. Caroline Pointer promised to be there, so at the very least we could sit there and talk about blogs to each other.

About 15 people made the trek down to room B-9 (dubbed the "meat locker" due to its overactive A/C unit), which is pretty good given that this session started at 5pm on a Friday.

Before the session, I wrote down several discussion topics. That way, if the conversation lulled I could introduce a new subject. Luckily this was a great crowd and everything just flowed.

We talked about affiliate programs (no one in the crowd really makes any *big* money, but some are able to make decent change), dedicated blog pages (for surnames, disclosures, etc.), publicity (using other social media tools to market blogs) and content.

Fifty minutes went by very fast. I thought the session was successful. People showed up and I learned something from them. That's all I was hoping to get out of it. Hopefully the others in attendance benefited as well.

Special thanks to FGS for including these Genspiration session slots in the line-up. I hope they do it again next year.

FGS2011 - Engaging a New Generation of Genealogists with D. Joshua Taylor

I attended "Engaging a New Generation of Genealogists" with D. Joshua Taylor as part of the society-day track at the FGS conference.

Genealogists often think that "new generation" automatically means younger members, but Taylor described the next generation as being those who will eventually replace current genealogy officers and board members. He referred to this group as the "21sters" (twenty-firsters).

Who are the 21sters? They are tech-oriented. They know about genealogy through an online presence. They're attracted to the stories we uncover in genealogy. They are looking for a fun organization to join--and their idea of fun isn't filling out a 5-generation pedigree chart at a society meeting.

Taylor also talked about the need for societies to think outside the box in terms of all society aspects. No one thinks they are beginners (even if they are) so don't title your events as such. Rename them. Seek different meeting locations and explore new methods of learning. Taylor also emphasized the need for societies to partner with other businesses in the community.

Assess your society. What is your social media presence? Your social media policy? What are your current projects? Publications? Other activities? How do 21sters fit into this combination? Or do they at all?

Taylor's session was spot on, in my opinion. Like it or not, the next generation of genealogy society members approaches family history from a different angle. Forward-thinking groups will capitalize on that fact and use these fresh faces to their advantage.

FGS2011 - Affordable Member Benefits with George Morgan

On Society Day at the 2011 FGS conference, George Morgan led a session on affordable member benefits for genealogy societies. He reiterated the fact that people want to be involved in active genealogical societies. What better way to meet that need than with member benefits.

Morgan offered many suggestions of benefits in several major categories including education, communication, genealogy help and special projects. Active society participation was the common thread in all of these ideas. "Members are your key strength," said Morgan.

All of the Society Day sessions perceive societies as businesses and they should be operated as such. Morgan advised the audience to re-evaluate their societies and examine costs. Perhaps a blog can replace your newsletter. Morgan also shared ideas for publicity and new member recruitment. My favorite idea was a membership drive where current members are rewarded (with prizes, discounts, etc.) for bringing in new members.

FGS2011 - Introducing HistoryGeo.com

In the FGS2011 exhibit hall, I had a chat with Greg Boyd of Arphax Publishers, the makers of the Family Maps wit which genealogists are so familiar. On September 8, Arphax unveiled a new online genealogy tool: HistoryGeo.com.

Boyd was kind enough to give me a demonstration. In short, HistoryGeo.com combines the detailed maps genealogists appreciate in the Family Map books with social networking components.

HistoryGeo.com includes a viewer that allows you to examine land maps by location or surname (of the original owner of the land). From the view perspective, subscribers can “tag” the land with custom markers that include photos, links, and pertinent details of your ancestors. You can make this information private or public. Sharing it with others increases the chances of connecting with potential cousins and others who descend from the families near your ancestors.

Right now, Boyd is looking for charter members to subscribe to their service. Though the site is new, it continues to grow. It has the potential to be a very cool genealogy tool.

I’ll play around with HistoryGeo.com some more and let you know how it goes. I just wanted to share about it with you because it’s a new toy and I know how much genealogists love new toys.


[I wasn't compensated for this blog post. I just like maps.  --Amy]

FGS2011 - The Dollars and Cents of Fundraising with Curt Witcher

“The Dollars and Cents of Fundraising” was the title of Curt Witcher’s session.  The takeaways from his talk were simple yet powerful:

1.       Do good things. As a society, do good deeds and provide good service. Then be ready to share about your group’s accomplishments. Examples include assisting 20 scouts in getting their merit badges or documenting the headstones in a local cemetery. Donors gravitate toward positivity, so alwas do good things.

2.       Ask. Many societies who need funding do not take the basic step of asking for assistance. Witcher was clear to point out that donors do not like to pay for a society’s basic operating costs, but like to support projects that support their own preferences and missions. Two issues that arise from this circumstance are that a.) you need to know your society’s mission and b.) you need to be aware of when the donor’s intent overshadows the funded project’s purpose.

3.       Fundraising is friendraising. Witcher states that fundraising is a continuous process, and the responsibility of more than one person in the society. We all know people through local business relationships, college alumni groups, sports teams, etc. Donors do not give to strangers, so we as societies must continually build and foster relationships.

Witcher’s very informative session used these three main themes and they all built on each other. You must know your society’s financial situation, do good things, and be prepared to share about those good things when you seek donations.

RootsTech 2012 Registration Discount at FGS2011

Did you hear the news? RootsTech 2012 registration is open!

But wait...there's more!

FamilySearch and the RootsTech crew are offering a special $99 rate if FGS conference attendees register at the RootsTech booth. So if you're at FGS in Springfield, mosey on over there and save $30 on the regular early-bird rate.

But wait...there's more!

RootsTech has generously extended this offer to everyone else at home, too. Use the registration code FGS99 when you sign up. This offer is only good through the end of the conference (Saturday, Sept. 10), so register now!

Just released: Insider's Guide to Illinois Genealogy

[FYI: this announcement was released this morning by the Illinois State Genealogical Society at the Federation of Genealogical Societies conference. See below and direct all questions to ISGS. --Amy]


Illinois State Genealogical Society Debuts New Guide for Family Historians with Prairie State Ancestors


September 8, 2011 – Springfield, IL. The Illinois State Genealogical Society (ISGS) proudly announces the debut of the Insider’s Guide To Illinois Genealogy – a handy reference guide for family historians and genealogists. With the Insider’s Guide researchers will find everything they need to get started to find Prairie State ancestors.
The Insider’s Guide To Illinois Genealogy laminated “quick card” contains:

·         An overview of Illinois history in a timeline format

·         A section on migration patterns related to how Illinois was settled

·         Helpful research strategy tips for the beginning genealogist

·         Over 130 different links to websites covering different aspects of Illinois genealogy over 26 subject sections including Census Records, Vital Records, Obituaries, Military Records, and more.

The Insider’s Guide will be available in limited quantities during the Federation of Genealogical Societies’ 2011 Conference in Springfield, Illinois. Visit the Illinois State Genealogical Society at Booths 205/207 in the Exhibit Hall at the Prairie Capital Convention Center to purchase your copy or to join ISGS. The guide will be given away FREE to the first 100 members who join ISGS.


With a conference special price of $5 each, the guide is expected to sell quickly. The guidecan also be purchased online at http://bit.ly/ISGSguide for $7 which includes shipping and handling.
ISGS Publicity Chair and Webmaster Thomas MacEntee notes: “ISGS is one of the first large genealogy societies to publish a research guide in this popular format. The ‘quick card’ is laminated, light-weight and can be slipped into a backpack or laptop bag for genealogy research trips.”


The Insider’s Guide To Illinois Genealogy was produced with the help of several ISGS board members who collected links to many online resources. In addition, attention has also been given to archives, libraries and repositories for “in person” research.


Janice Fritsch, ISGS President, states: “One of the purposes of ISGS is to disseminate information about Illinois.  The Insider's Guide to Illinois Genealogy not only helps ISGS in accomplishing its purpose, but also provides genealogists with an easy-to-use, ‘hands-on’ tool for finding Illinois ancestors. It is a must-have and will make a great gift for relatives, friends, your society or your library.”


About Illinois State Genealogical Society:
The Illinois State Genealogical Society (ISGS) was formed in 1968 through the cooperative effort and forward thinking of Illinois genealogical society representatives, who envisioned a statewide genealogical organization. ISGS is a not-for-profit, nonsectarian, educational organization. ISGS was established for the following purposes:

·         To stimulate an interest in the people who contributed to the establishment and development of the State of Illinois.

·         To seek, preserve, and make available data pertaining to individuals, families, and groups who lived in Illinois and to events which took place therein.

·         To inform people of the value of, and need for, preserving family and local history for posterity.

·         To encourage the formation of local genealogical societies and to coordinate and disseminate information.

Follow us on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/ILgensoc), Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/ILgensoc) and on our blog at http://ilgensoc.blogspot.com.




[Disclosure: I am an official blogger for the FGS conference, co-hosted by ISGS. I was given a complimentary copy of this reference guide.]

FGS2011: Plenary Session with David Rencher

Hello again from the FGS conference in Springfield. Wednesday was society day, where the events covered topics pertinent to society management and growth.

David Rencher of FamilySearch kicked off the day in the Plenary Session. He shared the statistic that 1/3 of the 35 charter FGS societies are no longer in existence. He then posed questions for our own genealogy societies. Do you know why your society exists? Would anyone notice if your society ceased operations? The common theme in Rencher's discussion was the necessity that genealogy societies be run as businesses, which is hard for some to do. However, it needs to be done. We need to know our costs per member and cut costs in all areas. This may mean moving to electronic publications or something else. All facets of a society need to be examined for ways to cut costs. There was also talk on staying relevant and providing value to the public. This theme was carried out through the day.

FGS2011: FamilySearch Bloggers Reception

Greetings from Springfield! Tonight was the bloggers' reception graciously hosted by FamilySearch. It was the first chance for most of the bloggers to see each other and catch up as we all arrived for the FGS conference.

Many of the familiar names behind FamilySearch were present at this event to mingle and share news about their respective departments within the organization.

There was extensive mention of RootsTech, which is coming February 2-4, 2012. FGS attendees can get big savings if they register for RootsTech at this conference. Stop by the FamilySearch booth for details.

Jim Ericson talked about the 1940 census, and the FamilySearch intent to get it indexed. Ancestry.com is also making the 1940 census available, doing so for free for a set amount of time. It is FamilySearch's intent to make it free forever. Jake Gehring also discussed the 1940 census during his presentation. FamilySearch is looking to partner with genealogy societies, friends of libraries, and other types of groups who may be interested in assisting in the indexing of this census.

David Rencher talked about some of the exciting developments with Civil War records in the FamilySearch collection. New collections pertinent to Illinois include the 1865 census, Illinois naturalizations and many more.

FamilySearch continues to increase the drive and speed with which they make records available for free to the public. They are dependent on volunteer support from the community and truly grateful to have it. There are volunteer opportunities available for individuals or groups. Consider partnering with them if you don't do so already.


[Disclosure: FamilySearch extended an invitation to their blogger reception and I accepted. I was not compensated. I am attending the FGS conference as an Official Blogger and will report on events throughout the week. --A]

If Genealogists Were In the Tabloids

Nobody cares about actual news anymore. It's the antics of celebrities that get network attention at the top of the hour.

What if genealogists were the celebrities? Here's a look at the gossip tidbits you might see if genealogists were in the tabloids:


Which enthusiastic family historian is slated for the debut edition of Dr. Drew's Genealogy Rehab? She was booked on the show after a week-long courthouse record bender during the middle of her family's vacation.


This genealogy brat pack is back to their conference partying ways. They spend so many late nights at the hotel bar, it's a wonder they can get up for classes!


Guess is pays to talk genealogy at national conferences. This well-known speaker was seen dropping the entire speaker's fee on books at a vendor's booth, yet vehemently denies there is a shopping addiction.


This first lady of genealogy caused quite a conference stir last week by admitting that some of the facts in her family tree are sourceless. The confession caused several audience members to get the vapors and ambulances were called.


Which amusing A-lister is rumored to be giving up family history to launch a line of sexy genealogist t-shirts? His wife sure is an angel to put up with his folly. Look for his clothing line to debut at the NGS conference this spring.


This couple who found love in the archives is raising eyebrows with their wedding registry. The least expensive item on the list is a $75 Civil War pension file!


So you think you can dance? This mild-mannered genealogist recently busted a major brick wall at the Family History Library and celebrated with a victory dance when she thought no one was watching. Look for the video to go viral soon.


This bejeweled blogger has gone to great lengths to hide his real age. Unfortunately, the latest additions to Ancestry.com's yearbook collection include the stone tablets that bear the truth.




Deny it all you want, but I know you'd sneak a peek at the tabloids if they covered genealogy gossip. Perhaps someday when family history goes mainstream. I heard a rumor that we're headed that way...

Get the Latest News About FGS2011

The FGS conference is approaching fast, and news about the event is continuously being generated. 

Here are some blog posts that will keep you up to date, whether you're coming to Springfield or playing along from home:

What if you can't go to FGS 2011? Gena of Gena's Genealogy shows us how gain the most from the conference from the comfort of our homes.

Linda of Documenting the Details shows us how to keep up with the bloggers who are attending the conference. She generously shares her links that will give you a front-row seat to the action.

FGS VIP and awesome lady Paula Stuart Warren issued a set of conference challenges to attendees. Are you up to it? 

1000memories has extended an invite to conference attendees to attend their breakfast panel "Engaging Your Family in Genealogy." You must RSVP. See link for details.

And of course, follow the FGS conference blog for the latest updates and announcements.

[Disclosure: I am an Official Blogger.  -A]

Hotels for RootsTech 2012

[Here's the official press release detailing the official hotels for RootsTech 2012. The conference registration begins next week. After that, the flood gates will open and these hotels will fill up very quickly. Reserve your room(s) now!


The Radisson is next to the Salt Palace Convention Center. The Salt Lake Plaza is next to the Family History Library. Both are within walking distance of each other.  ----Amy]


[Update: Randy Seaver says the Radisson is sold out, but Salt Lake Plaza still has rooms. This conference is going to be one hot ticket!]


RootsTech 2012 Official Hotels Announced

Conference Attendees Can Make Hotel Reservations Now

RootsTech 2012 is happy to announce its two official conference hotels: theRadisson and the Salt Lake Plaza. The hotels will offer reduced rates and attractive benefits for conference attendees. Both hotels were very popular with conference goers in 2011. The two facilities are conveniently located near the Salt Palace Convention Center and are offering an attractive $89 per night conference rate to RootsTech 2012 attendees. However, the special conference rate rooms are limited. Attendees are encouraged to book now to guarantee availability for RootsTech 2012, which will be held February 2–4, 2012, in Salt Lake City, Utah. Registration for attending the RootsTech 2012 conference itself will open shortly in September 2011.

Radisson Hotel



215 West South Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84101
Rate: $89 per night

Every room has extra value added for the convenience of our guests. Each room has a coffeemaker with complimentary coffee, hair dryer, bathroom amenities by ASiRA, iron and full-size ironing board, complimentary high-speed Internet access, and voice mail. USA Today and the Salt Lake Tribune, offering local news and information, are available upon request. RootsTech guests will also receive complimentary parking and a free breakfast buffet for one per single-rate room, two per double-rate room, three per triple-rate room, or four per quad–rate room.

Salt Lake Plaza Hotel



122 West South Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84101
Rate: $89 per night

Conveniently located adjacent to the Family History Library and across the street from the conference center. Every room has free coffee as well as a refrigerator, microwave, and coffeemaker that guests may use. RootsTech guests will enjoy free wireless Internet and airport shuttle ($30 value). Parking is only $5 per night.

About RootsTech

RootsTech is a new conference designed to bring technologists together with genealogists to learn from each other and find solutions to the challenges faced in family history research today. The conference’s activities and offerings are focused on content that will help genealogists and family historians discover exciting new research tools while enabling technology creators to learn the latest development techniques from industry leaders and pioneers.