Posted: September 1, 2011

The 2011 NFDA International Convention & Expo, being held in conjunction with the Cremation Association of North America, will take place October 23-26 in Chicago.

Up-to-date information about the 2011 NFDA International Convention & Expo can be found by visiting www.nfda.org/chicago2011.

ACT NOW! Early Bird Registration Deadline is THIS Thursday, September 1

The NFDA Convention is the premier event for funeral service professionals like you! Bringing together thousands of funeral service professionals from throughout the United States and around the world, the Convention is the place to share best practices, improve your skills and network. The NFDA Convention provides the perfect opportunity to learn from recognized experts in funeral service. Don't miss out on this opportunity to find proven solutions to the issues you face every day!

Register by this Thursday and save $100. Register online using discount code CV11W20 at checkout to save an additional $20!

Deep Dive: Preconvention Seminars

NFDA will offer four preconvention seminars on Saturday, October 22. These half-day and full-day programs offer in-depth analyses of key issues impacting the profession.

• Introduction to Alkaline Hydrolysis: Understanding the Process and Procedures: This seminar will provide critical information, including a history of alkaline hydrolysis, an overview of the process and chemicals used, safety considerations, processing of bone remains and more. Presented by Dean Fisher, director of the UCLA Donated Body Program at the David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, Calif. Cost: $195 for before September 1; $220 after September 1.
• Reconstructive Techniques for Facial Repair Resulting From Trauma: Learn a wide variety of techniques to transform the most severe trauma case into an acceptable and identifiable condition. Presented by Vernie Fountain, Fountain National Academy, Springfield, Mo. Cost: $495 CANA and NFDA members; $595 non-members.
• NFDA Certified Preplanning Consultant Program: Promote exceptional standards in the field of advance planning by becoming an NFDA Certified Preplanning Consultant (CPC). You must be eligible to participate in this program; please call an NFDA member services representative at 800-228-6332 to apply. Presented by Colleen Murphy Klein, NFDA, Brookfield, Wis. Cost: $395 NFDA and CANA members; $540 non-members
• CANA Crematory Operator Certification Program: With increased cremation-related litigation, a simple mistake could cost a firm hundreds of thousands of dollars. Crematory owners, managers and operators all must understand proper operating procedures to ensure quality and protect their firm. Presented by: Michael Nicodemus, COCP chair; Chris Farmer, CANA legal counsel; Steven Schaal, Matthews Cremation; and Tony Lombardi, Matthews Cremation. Cost: $99 before September 1; $125 after September 1.

Make Plans to Attend Worsham College's Centennial Celebration

On March 17, 1911, Worsham College of Mortuary Science opened its doors on Lincoln Avenue in Chicago. Worsham will celebrate its 100-year legacy of educating funeral service professionals on Saturday, October 22, the day before the NFDA International Convention & Expo opens. The Worsham Centennial Celebration is open to all funeral service professionals. The cost to attend is $20. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Bruno B. Bak Memorial Scholarship Fund. Visit the NFDA website for more information about the event and how to register.

NFDA and CANA are generously supported by Federated Insurance Company, Batesville Casket Company, Facultatieve Technologies, Frazer Consultants, Madelyn Company, Matthews International, Memories by Design, Nomis Publications, American Crematory Equipment, American Funeral Financial, Deaton-Kennedy Company, Director's Select Retirement Plan (DSRP), Doric Products Inc., Funeral Call, Homesteaders Life Company and Messenger.