Conference FAQs
When will registration open for the conference?
Online registration for the NGS 2012 Family History Conference opens on Thursday, 1 December 2011. Registration brochures will be mailed to members with their December 2011 NGS Quarterly. E-mail Veronica Tran to request a brochure to be mailed to you when it is available.
What is the proper attire for the conferences?
Most attendees dress casually throughout the day and dress up more for social events. Wear good walking shoes, as you will need to walk between sessions and in the exhibit hall. Dress appropriately. It's also a good idea to bring layers; lecture rooms can be slightly warm or slightly chilly.
Are conference sessions being taped this year?
Yes. JAMB, Inc., will be recording sessions, and the audio CDs can be purchased on-site during the conference and afterward from the JAMB, Inc. website. Please note that only the sessions of speakers who gave permission will be recorded. The sessions not being taped are identified with the "notes" symbol in the conference program distributed during registration.
I am a complete beginner. Are NGS conferences suitable for me?
Absolutely. Complete beginners are very welcome, and encouraged, at NGS conferences. The beginner will find numerous educational and illuminating sessions. Each session is labeled with the audience level. The exhibit hall will also be of much interest to the beginner. It features exhibits of genealogical software, books, research aids, genealogical and historical societies, and much more.
Click here for "Tips for First Time Conference Attendees."
I do more than just Ohio research. Will this conference benefit me?
Yes, all NGS Family History Conferences are geared towards all researchers, wherever their interests lie. Each year the conference is held in a different city and state for the convenience of our members throughout the United States, and each year the main focus is on a certain geographical area and research in that area. However, all our conference programs contain sessions on many different research locations and records, including ethnic research, methodology, new technology such as DNA, and a variety of record groups.
Where are the sessions and all events held?
All sessions and exhibits will be held at the Duke Energy Convention Center, 525 Elm St., Cincinnati, Ohio. Some evening events will be held at other venues. See the Conference Registration Brochure for specific details.
What does my conference registration include?
The full conference registration includes admission to all sessions and lectures. Single-day registrations include admission to all sessions and lectures on that particular day. Luncheons, social events such as the NGS Luncheon, and workshops require an additional fee.
Must I be a librarian to sign up for Librarian's Day?
No, it is not a requirement. However, the program is tailored for genealogical librarians and those that serve genealogists.
Do I have to pay for a conference registration if I just want to attend a workshop?
Yes and no. Conference registration is not required for the BCG Education Fund Workshop, Genealogy 201, or Youth Kamp. Registration is required for all other workshops.
I only want to attend a luncheon or dinner at the conference. Do I have to register for the conference?
No, you may choose the "Meals Only" registration type and then pay to attend the social event.
Can I purchase luncheon and dinner tickets on-site?
Unfortunately not. All meal tickets must be purchased prior to 24 April 2012.
I have registered for the conference and need to make changes. How can I do that?
To add luncheons, dinners, or workshops to your existing registration, log on at http://www.ngsgenealogy.org, click on My Account, and then My Events. You can print a copy of your Agenda, add workshops and meal events, and also add the event to your calendar. If you are asked to select a registration type, please choose Meals Only. For cancellations and trouble with your registration, please e-mail our conference registrar, Veronica Tran to make changes.
Where can I rent a scooter?
Scooters and wheelchairs can be rented from Lance Sizemore with Rollin' On The River by calling 513-582-6526. We recommend that reservations be made by 1 March 2012. Rented equipment will be delivered to and picked up from the conference hotels. Visit the Mobility Impaired page for further information..
I would like to Volunteer at the upcoming conference, whom should I contact?
Contact Jean Nathan, Volunteer Chair, at gnealogist@cinci.rr.com.
I would like to make a special request. Whom should I contact?
Contact the NGS Conference Manager at conference@ngsgenealogy.org.
Questions? Contact the NGS Conference Manager at conference@ngsgenealogy.org.
