​FAQs
Why was the JERK Conference cancelled?
Many factors went into this difficult decision. Our conference planning actually starts about  year in advance. Many things have to be in place months before the conference. Unfortunately, the  the uncertainty of the future containment of Covid19 and future travel and meeting restrictions meant we could not make any definite future in-person conference plans. With members travelling from all over the country and Canada, we also had to consider the effects of Covid on a large geographic area. Additionally, we not only considered the physical well-being of our members, but the financial well-being of our members, too. We understand that this time has been difficult for many with Covid-related work changes.
 
Why not do a virtual conference?
The conference committee discussed this idea at length. Not only within the committee, but with speakers who had already committed to the 2020 conference. In the end, we concluded what is really the most special about JERK conferences is our members. There is really something magical when we all get together. No other conference has ever been able to capture it. We could not think of a way to capture that unique aspect of the JERK conference in the virtual world, or really compensate for the networking and connections that is such a vital part of the JERK Conference for attendees and speakers alike.
 
JERK LNC will be hosting some virtual events later in the year. If you have a suggestion for a speaker or topic you would like to hear, you can let us know on our Contacts page.   
 
Will there be a conference next year?
Yes! Mark your calendar for October 13-16, 2021. The conference will be held in Raleigh at the Hilton Garden Inn, Crabtree. We are already working hard behind the scenes on JERKCON 11 and have some terrific speakers lined up for you. If you have a great idea for conference topics or speakers, let us know!
 
What is the current state of Covid19 in NC
As of late June 2020, Covid19 continues to increase in NC. The Raleigh area has the 2nd highest number of Covid19 cases, after Charlotte. For current NC COVID-19 information and current guidelines, you can check here, with the Raleigh News & Observer, or here, with NC DHHS.