The CAR conference is quickly approaching. Register TODAY!

Gain the skills you need to become an essential part of any newsroom at the 2009 Computer-Assisted Reporting Conference in Indianapolis on March 19-22.  Register today as early bird registration ends on March 6.

From the beginner to advanced CAR specialist, you’ll sharpen your skills in data analysis, Web programming and reporting on dozens of topics.  And this year’s conference will offer several panels focused on covering the financial crisis, including how to dig into the TARP funds and to analyze the recession’s impact locally.  Other highlights include:

* Mapping, from creative uses of Google maps to more sophisticated analysis - all interactive for your Web audience
* Creating interactive Web sites that profile a community down to the neighborhood level, from experts like the creators of Everyblock
* Scraping data from government Web sites and making it your own
* Analyzing data to probe more deeply on crucial issues such as crime, housing and schools.
* Exploring the latest frontiers of CAR, from text mining to advanced programming
* Searching for information and data on the Web, using the latest tips and sites
* And there will be plenty for those just getting started with CAR, including hands-on classes to bring you up to speed on using spreadsheets and database managers.

You can view the preliminary schedule including hands-on sessions at data.nicar.org/conference/schedule.  Please check back frequently as this is updated on a regular basis.  Expected speakers at this year’s conference can be found at data.nicar.org/conference/list/speaker.

Last year, participants were scrambling to find a hotel room after the room block had filled.  To get the discounted rate of $139 plus tax, please make your hotel reservation by Tuesday, February 24.  There are two ways to make a reservation: To make a reservation online, visit the hotel Web site and enter your arrival and departure dates.  To make your reservation by phone, please call 1-888-627-8186 and ask to make a reservation in the “2009 CAR Conference” room block.  If you are interested in finding a roommate to share hotel expenses, please check our roommate forum.

This year we are excited to offer an Amtrak discount to CAR participants arriving in Indianapolis.  Please visit the conference Web site for the convention code which will save you 10% off the lowest available fare.

For more information and a time line of important dates, please visit the CAR conference Web site.

As you complete your registration don’t forget about the Jazz Bash that will take place on Friday evening, March 20th at Indianapolis’s famous Jazz Kitchen.  Don’t miss this great event! It’s a great opportunity to hear jazz music and network with some of the best reporters in the nation. The Jazz Kitchen has become a hot spot in Indy and offers a mix of local and national talent. They also have a great menu ranging from steaks and seafood to vegetarian and pasta creations. View the menu at www.thejazzkitchen.com. A ticket gets you free admission and buys your first two drinks (wine and beer). And if that’s not enough, you’ll be helping IRE and NICAR raise money. Advance tickets for this event are now on sale for $15. Buy yours early so you don’t miss this great event. Advance tickets will be available until Friday, March 6. Any remaining tickets will be sold at the conference for $20.

IRE would like to thank the following organizations for their support of the 2009 CAR Conference:
Hosts: Gannett Foundation and The Indianapolis Star
Primary Sponsor: Lumina Foundation for Education
Sponsors: The Journal Gazette and Ice Miller LLP

If you have questions about the conference, please contact Stephanie Sinn, Conference Coordinator, at stephanie@ire.org  or 573-882-8969.