Is this you? I understand! And if you are a member but aren't quite sure what to do with the Ning, this post is for you.

For the past few months, I have been the gatekeeper of all information: email addresses, names, phone numbers, and the woman who can answer your question, "Who's that mom with the red double BOB and brown hair?"
I don't know if the Photo Directory will be able to answer that final question for you, but for everything else, the Ning will get you started. By scrolling through the list of members, you'll be able to locate one another and then get in touch through your Page on the site. Anything posted on your Page will be forwarded to your (non-public) email address, and if you are Friends with another member, you will be able to email them privately.
There's no need to check in at the Ning regularly. It's not meant to be a huge black hole of your time like Facebook. But if you want to find someone and get in touch, you ought to be able to get started with the Photo Directory.