President's Message

FGS Website Has Valuable Information

Last issue's President's Message suggested that we all make decisions about sharing the genealogical research and materials that we've collected over the past years or decades. So I'd like to being this columns with a report that I am working steadfastly to do as I say and am making three copies of my records to share with others. Although my progress is slow, so far it seems steady, and I remain dedicated to the task.

Since last quarter's message, I've also accomplished one more task along these lines. I made arrangements with our attorney so that my repository of choice is actually listed in my will and will receive my history and genealogical books without question.

On another totally different issue, I do hope that you have noticed the new Federation website (www.fgs.org). In September, Amy Johnson Crow agreed to serve as the new webmaster for the Federation of Genealogical Societies; she started out with a bang and began posting new items before the ink dried on the contract.

Most of the Federation's website is revamped, but several tasks remain to be completed. Amy works hard to mee the many demands of an organization as large as FGS, and we know she'll complete the current assignments in the near future. When those jobs are completed, then we will focus on one or two others that fell through the cracks.

Sharon Lass Field won this year's competition for the Ruth C. Bishop Volunteer of the Year. Her picture and biographical sketch will be found in this issue of FORUM and are posted online for you to view. I know you will all agree that Sharon represents a stellar volunteer for her genealogical society, and her accomplishments certainly merit the award. You can find find information about other awards here.

Check out all the different parts of the website. Begin at the Records Preservation and Access section. If your state doesn't have a liaison, perhaps you can recommend someone. View the Rabbi Malcolm Stern National Archives Gift Fund page. Is your society donating one dollar per member per year for this worthwhile cause? Maybe this is something your society can do in 2008. Check these and the many more features on the FGS website.

Has your society had its bylaws reviewed by the Bylaws Review Committee volunteers from the Federation board? Take a look. Go to all the links. Learn the history of the Federation, read about the award winners for every award over the years, and note the money-earning projects that several companies are offering through partnerships with FGS.

There are so many other site features to bring to your attention, I could continue indefinitely. But, just please, review the new and improved FGS website. Try it; you'll like it. I promise.

Wendy Bebout Elliott, PhD.,
FGS President