Recently, at a smaller event than a family reunion, we have used SKPYE or Microsoft Communicator or Microsoft Messenger to enable friends and family at a distance to virtually attend our special occasions. I linked my television screen (so they appeared on a larger screen than a computer screen and could be seen by more people at once) to a webcam and a laptop to have a video chat with family who were unable to otherwise attend. A friend used the same technology to allow his mother in hospital attend a special event. However with all technology it is important to test the system before use, that both parties use the same software program, and to make a pre-appointed time for the call to avoid disappointment on both sides. Regards, Chris --Forwarded Message Attachment-- From: colleenmdunk@gmail.com To: AUS-SAGEN@rootsweb.com Date: Fri, 14 Jan 2011 01:59:56 +1030 Subject: [AUS-SAGEN] Family reunions ideas ? Hi all A cousin has organised a family reunion - she knows ( as well as everyone else in the family does ) that I am the main one in the family that is passionate about our family history & have been researching out family for over 20 years.. The get together is at her brothers house & I have offered to take my lap top along that has my Gedcom program on & her brother has access to a big screen that he said can be displayed on for everyone to look at. A few family members are in their late 80's & in ill health & this will very likely be the last time the extended family ever gets together with the last remaining oldies - who were the children of our family who immigrated to Australia in the late 1800's. It may also be the very last time many of this side of my family ever sees each other as it's mainly been the oldies who have been the motivation for to get together s over the years ! Over the years I have collected heaps of info on this line of my family back to the mid 1700's . Has anyone got any ideas of the best way to make it interesting & pass information on to family members who may like to know more ? None of the extended family know that after 132 years of our line of the family totally losing touch with the family back in Ireland that I have found / been found by 2 directly connected lines in Ireland & 1 directly connected lines in USA & become friends with them all & shared lots of research & information. I am hoping that after this family reunion that at least one of the younger generation will show some at least some interest so that in years to come that our family will keep in touch. with the family in Australia & the cousins I now know in Ireland & USA. I suppose that is what we would all wish for under these circumstances. All ideas or input will be appreciated. Many Thanks Colleen