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TALLAHASSEE – Family history, or genealogy, is the second most popular hobby in the U.S. (after gardening) and the second most visited category of websites (after adult content), according to ABC News.
Which is why RootsTech, an annual family history conference, has emerged as the leading gathering of family history experts in the world. This year, due to the global pandemic, RootsTech will be virtual and free to the public.
Scheduled for Feb. 25-27, RootsTech Connect will bring national experts on searching ancestry to the comfort of your home via personal computer, laptop, or phone.
Shari and Charles Watson of Tallahassee, who serve as directors of the Tallahassee Stake Family History Center,
Charles & Shari Watson
say having a virtual conference will open the audience for family history.
“Normally, RootsTech is in Utah, with travel and expenses involved, so this is a big deal,” said Charles Watson. “Now everyone can attend and learn about their ancestry. There are classes for different levels of knowledge and experience, and people can research all parts of the world. RootsTech will give them contacts so they can receive more personalized and extensive guidance. And you don’t have to travel through the snow,” he added.
Shari Watson said she welcomes the convenience of a virtual conference.
“Now we’ll have access to all the online classes from the comfort of our couch. So, this is an awesome opportunity,” she said. “There are so many special guest speakers who are impressive and cool in RootsTech this year, you’re getting a premium experience.”
For a listing of RootsTech Connect sessions, click here.
Keynote speakers for the event include the following:
- Professional golfer Lorena Ochoa
- Pianist and composer Francesco Lotoro
- Writer and genealogist Sharon Leslie Morgan
- Motivational speaker and author Nick Vugicic
- British television star Sunetra
- Former Uruguayan soccer star Diego Alfredo Lugano
- University president Dr. Astrid S. Tuminez
- Actor Erick Avari
To register for RootsTech Connect, click here. There is no cost.
