Ancestry.com and the DNA Business - Oil and Water?

I am beginning to think I have this title correct...

Oil being the slippery Ancestry.com, and their jumping into the Gene Pool is the water.

Obviously, whatever the analogy, the two are not mixing well, at all!

When Ancestry.com first tested Y-DNA there were errors in predicting haplogroups.  It was discovered that they did not do the proper SNP testing and were using some online guides to predicting a person's haplogroup or twig on the world family tree (Phylogenetic Tree).  I had several people in different audiences who told me of this delimma as well.  Two first cousins were predicted as R1b and G haplogroups.  Later testing determined they were indeed first cousins, but as any person, even those new to DNA, knows you have to have the same haplogroup to be closely related.

So, fast forward...Ancestry.com has decided it is in their best interest to offer autosomal testing.  Previously, I mentioned a few issues in this blog with their attempt to join the other companies in this field and the issues that have surfaced.

The following post from Debbie Kennett, with her kind permission, is an update on some of the problems. After reading her post, I urge all of you to read my criteria on choosing a genetic testing company.

I also might add that in my post for the 2012 WDYTYA (Who Do You Think You Are?) Conference in London, Ken Chahine was in the audience of a Family Tree DNA presentation....obviously he was there to learn like the others...or checking out the competition!  Too bad he didn't take better notes!

AncestryDNA's response to my request for my raw genetic data

As discussed in my previous blog post one of the major drawbacks of AncestryDNA's new autosomal DNA test is that they do not currently allow their customers access to their raw genetic data. Ken Chahine,the Senior Vice President and General Manager, DNA, at Ancestry.com has publicly stated at a meeting of the Presidential Committee for Bioethical Issues in Washington, D.C., his belief that "the customer retains ownership of their DNA and their data" [my italics]. Thegenetic genealogy blogger CeCe Moore has been told by John Pereira, the Vice President of Business Development at Ancestry.com, that Ancestry "are genuinely considering the best way to deliver this data to us". However, Ancestry are also taking into consideration the feedback from other customers and it appears that allowing customers access to their raw genetic data is not currently a priority.

Family Tree DNA and 23andMe, the other two companies that offer autosomal DNA tests for genetic genealogists, both allow their customers to download their DNA data files from their personal accounts. If Ancestry are intending to introduce such a feature it will inevitably take time to implement the necessary IT infrastructure. In the meantime I decided to contact Ancestry.com about the possibility of obtaining a copy of my autosomal DNA raw data file as it would surely be a simple matter for them to e-mail this file to me. I contacted Ancestry through their CustomerServices Department. They replied very promptly apologising for the "frustration" regarding my raw DNA data. I was told that the "DNA project is still very new and in the beta testing stage. Our developers are currently in discussions regarding adding a feature that will allow members to download their DNA data." In the meantime Ancestry are encouraging members to send them feedback by clicking on the "Beta Send Feedback" button that appears in the top right corner of your DNA page. They advised me that their "developers are going through this feedback and basing a lot of their decisions on what we are hearing from our members".

However, Ancestry did not reply to my question about receiving my genetic data so I replied asking once more if they could send me my file. They again replied very promptly but I was told "Currently we are unable to send you a file with your raw DNA data. We apologize for any frustration this issue may have caused and appreciate your feedback. We have forwarded your message on to our feedback department." I was also given a telephone number in the US that I could ring, but as I am in the UK a transatlantic telephone call is not a realistic proposition. Ancestry do have a UK telephone number but as their DNA test is not being actively marketed in the UK, I do not imagine that I will be able to get any answers from them.

I can appreciate that logistically it might be difficult for Ancestry's customer services reps to arrange for customers to receive data files as the files are probably held elsewhere. It is, however, very disappointing that they are unable to fulfil their promise and I hope the issue will be addressed as soon as possible. I cannot recommend anyone testing at AncestryDNA for the present unless and until this problem is fixed.

As AncestryDNA clearly do not think that allowing customers access to their own genetic data is a top priority I would urge everyone who has tested with them to submit feedback requesting access to their personal raw data files. Ancestry do not appear to be replying to comments that are submitted through the Feedback button. A question I submitted last week asking for information about the British reference populations used for their admixture predictions has not been answered. I would therefore suggest that, in addition to submitting feedback, everyone also writes to Customer Services asking for a copy of their raw genetic data file. If enough requests are received then perhaps Ancestry might consider implementing this basic and essential feature.

A DNA project administrator in the US who is on the ISOGG project adminsmailing list has advised that he has received good support when talking to Ancestry on the phone. If anyone in the US is able to ring Ancestry I would be very interested to hear what they have to say about this issue.

© 2012 Debbie Kennett

 AND, besides Debbie's blog, please read Roberta J. Estes' blog DNA Explain for her post entitled:  Is History Repeating Itself at Ancestry?  Roberta's blog is very much to the point referring to quesitonable ethics, and the issues with Sorenson, GeneTree, Relative Geneics and Ancestry (who still doesn't do SNP testing).  She hits all the points that are troubling those of us in the Genetic Genealogy world.  She writes about how Ancestry boldly lied to the blogger who discovered an adoption-sibling error, and how they failed to tell testers that they must have a subscription to Ancestry to see their matches in the future.  There is so much more.

Roberta's blog is a MUST READ!

Since Ancestry is still not doing SNP testing, it appears they never learned from their first attempt at playing in the gene pool.  Well, there is the shallow end for the babies who haven't learned to swim, and from Ancestry's past history, they may never get to play with the big boys if quality is involved!

As genealogists you want to do quality reesarch, and you want the same quality in DNA testing. 

Choose wisely!

Emily

30 Aug 2012

Autosomal Testing: Genetic Genealogy's Current Buzz-Word

A Buzz-Word; Don't Get Stung

The BUZZ around genetic genealogy circles is that autosomal testing is GREAT for genealogy, but with one company, you could get STUNG!

A few years ago I posted on how to choose a company for DNA testing.  That was before autosomal testing arrived on the scene, but the guideline are still very useful.

Thousands have already tested their autosomal DNA and more companies are seeing a profit in offering this type of test.  Until recently the major players were 23andMe and Family Tree DNA.  Now Ancestry.com's DNA testing arm (AncestryDNA) is offering autosomal testing.

Autosomal DNA (atDNA) is found throughout our genome and in all 23 pairs of chromosomes.  It is recombined at every conception and gives us, among other things, our physical features so that we look like our relatives, but not exactly unless someone is an identical twin.  The test for this type of DNA allows males to match females and helps determine relationships.  You can learn if your matches are likely to be 1st cousins or 4th cousins or aunts and uncles, if your 2nd cousin is really related to you (one of mine was not!), if you have half-siblings, etc.  This gives you more relatives to help on your genealogy, and it can straighten out your family tree.  It is great for adoptees as matches are usually within six generations on your pedigree chart.

Those who have tested several relatives have become interested in determining which sections of their DNA came from which ancestors.  This is a growing trend and makes it much easier to find a common ancestor with a complete stranger who is related to you.  This is called Chromosome Mapping.  Others wish to phase their data to know which allele (Adenine, Cytosine, Guanine, or Thymine) came from each parent on each SNP.  There are many citizen scientists in the field of genetic genealogy who are recognized by some of these companies and these companies listen to them.

After all, the educated public knows what it wants when it comes to genetic genealogy and those companies that listen will benefit.  Members of the community of genetic genealogists have big voices and do speak to hundreds and hundreds of people.  (Personally, I have given presentations to many hundred just this year.)  The genealogy public turns to the genetic genealogist whenever possible to understand DNA testing.  We know what works and let our followers know.

That brings me to today's subject.  With the three major companies now doing autosomal testing for genealogists, only AncestryDNA will not let you see your raw data.  For some that may be of no interest, but later many from the general public may wish to do the chromosome mapping or phasing I previously mentioned.  For others that is a major factor in their choice to test or not to test with AncestryDNA; hence, those who aren't interested in chromosome mapping right now will be deprived of some matches as many of us are doing chromosome mapping and phasing.

You cannot see your own raw data even though AncestryDNA states that it is YOUR DNA. BUT, their consent form requires that you allow THEM to use it for research which could mean profits to them.  At this point, there is no way to opt out of allowing them to use it for their research, other studies, or anything else they choose.  So...it's OUR DNA, but we can't see it, but they can use it?  Hummm....that bee stings!

Currently, the AncestryDNA company isn't listening, so I'm urging all of you who pick a company just because they have a nice sale that week, because they have extensive ads, or because they tell you how easy everything is, beware.

A good genetic genealogy company provides the following:

1.  A large database
2.  A variety of products to meet a variety of needs
3.  Sales several times a year
4.  Excellent customer service by email and by phone
5.  Wonderful webpages to help you find out about your DNA test
6.  Matches on your DNA that you can contact directly
7.  Excellent FAQs (frequently asked questions) to help you understand everything
8.  Project managers who, even though they are volunteers, understand testing and can help you
9.  Storage for your unused DNA sample so you can upgrade or order a new test as needed
10.  A stable company with a solid business policy
11.  A method preventing your data from being used for anything other than your personal use.  If the company wants to use it, they need to contact you regarding the study and have you sign papers allowing it.
12.  An ear to the customer, listening to what is needed and what more is desired to help their genealogy

Please read the following blogs from two very fine genetic genealogists. Follow their blogs, you'll learn a lot! Each blog hits upon one of the current issues at AncestryDNA.  Do not be mistaken that these issues aren't widespread among the genetic genealogy community and it reaches beyond US borders.  From that community (thousands strong), I have not read one positive comment regarding these issues.

Robert J. Estes, scientist and genetic genealogist

Ancestry’s ConsentForm for Ancestry DNA Autosomal Test, posted 16 Aug 2012

CeCe Moore, genetic genealogist

AncestryDNA: Confusing Relationship Predictions and Adoptees, posted 21 Aug 2012

Scroll down to the post, if needed.

Choose wisely and do not get stung!  These are not the only issues with AncestryDNA.  If you do not have a subscription you can access your matches, but cannot see the "trees" that connect.  ALSO, the admixture they are doing is wrong in some cases:  See Debbie's post (from the UK) entitled:  My Ancestry autosomal DNA Test

Sorry to omit your blog Debbie!

If any of you have questions, please contact me directly.

Emily
24 Aug 2012

Geno 2.0 – Q&A with Bennett Greenspan

Roberta J. Estes has graciously allowed me to re-post her interview with Bennett Greenspan, President of Family Tree DNA, regarding his company's partnership with the Genographic Project and their new Geno 2.0 chip.

Roberta has been a professional scientist and business owner for over twenty-five year, and is highly respected in genetic genealogy world. In 2005, with an interest and expertise in genetics for genealogy, she formed DNAeXplain,which provides individual analysis of DNA results and genealogical assistance. In 2009 she teamed with Family Tree DNA to jointly offer Personalized DNA Reports for customers.  She manages over twenty DNA projects including the Cumberland Gap Yline DNA and mitochondrial DNA projects and is the founder of the Lost Colony DNA research projects.  She also co-administers several Native American and African DNA projects and is an adviser for the Melungeon project.

The following is her interview posted on July 26, 2012 at DNAeXplained - Genetic Genealogy.

Bennett Greenspan was gracious enough to call me with the answers to several questions and responses to comments and speculation on blogs and lists today. He wants to thank everyone for their interest and personal support for the ongoing research and the new product.  I am putting these in a question and answer format.

Q:  Can I purchase the Geno 2.0 kit elsewhere?

A:  The Geno 2.0 product can only be purchased through the National Geographic Society.  This product cannot be ordered from Family Tree DNA..  

Q:  Will there be a way to move my Geno 2.0 results to the Family Tree DNA database?

A: As with the original National Geographic product, we plan to have a link on the Geno 2.0 personal page to allow people to upload their results.  With the Geno 2.0 deep SNP results, they will be able to enter their Family Tree DNA account number, if they have an existing account at Family Tree DNA, and their deep SNP results will be included with their other tests results on their personal page.

Q:  Does Family Tree DNA plan to offer a test that will be more extensive then the new Genographic test for the Y chromosome?

A:  No. The most extensive test for obtaining YDNA SNP data is available on the Geno 2.0 chip and Family Tree DNA has no plans to compete with its partner.  STR results will not be supplied by Geno 2.0 and all regular genealogical marker tests should be ordered through Family Tree DNA.  These two tests go hand in hand.

By way of example, in haplogroup R-M222 – the new Geno chip includes discoveries of at least three unique SNP’s downstream of R-M222.

These 10,000 new SNPs will provide, for almost everyone, one or two additional clades (subhaplogroups) down the tree from where they are located today.  For some people, these will reach into a genealogical timeframe, connecting their SNPs and their STR data.  The STR tests will then be used to further augment the Geno 2.0 SNP tests for genealogical comparisons within families.

Q:  When will the new Y tree be available?

A:  FTDNA is vetting the Y tree in conjunction with the Genographic Project and prior to the release of these data.  This won’t occur until they will have had enough samples to fully vet the 12,000 tree SNPs, confirming the positions on the tree and that all SNP’s are working correctly.

Q:  What is the difference between the full mitochondrial sequence (FMS) test and the Geno 2.0 test for mitochondria?

A:  Chips can only tell you what is programmed on them.  The Geno 2.0 test is not as complete as the FMS.  Geno 2.0 includes all mtdna SNPs approved for research purposes at Family Tree DNA plus all known mutations found in Genbank.  The Geno 2.0 chip includes a total of about 3,100 locations, more than any other product using this same technology.

This test is very complete for European-centric haplogroups, such as H.  However the test is anthropological in nature, not genealogical.  This means that while you will receive your haplogroup assignment to the same level as a full sequence test, you will not receive other genealogical information that could be critically important to your research.  (Private SNP’s that are unknown will not be ‘discovered’ via chip testing).

If you want your anthropological information, meaning haplogroup information only, then the Geno 2.0 kit is the way to go. 

Geno 2.0 has 50% more mtDNA SNP’s than the next best chip technology for mtDNA.  The only thing better is the full sequence test.  The full sequence test is the only test that can be universally used for scientific research as well.

Q:  There seems to be some confusion surrounding what products to order for what purposes.

Geno 2.0

Product                                                                                                      Purchase?

Y DNA – 12,000 SNPS – Deep Ancestry – Haplogroup identification         Yes

Mitochondrial DNA – Anthropology – Deep Ancestry – Haplogroup

 Identification                                                                                               Yes

Ethnicity – Worldwide Populations – Ancestral Informative Markers –

Deep Ancestry – 137,000 total SNP locations – covers many

SNPS not in Family Finder                                                                           Yes

FTDNA Products

Product                                                                                                        Purchase?

Y- DNA Regular STR tests, 12, 25, 37, 67 and 111 markers                         Yes

Mitochondrial DNA tests for genealogical comparisons                                 Yes

Family Finder –for genealogical matching – cousin matching

provided from Family Tree DNA data base                                                    Yes

Y DNA deep clade test                                                                 Order Geno 2.0 unless

                                                                                                     time is of the essence

Y DNA WTY – after running Geno 2.0 on kit, discuss with Family Tree DNA

                                                                                                                    Case by case

Thank you Roberta for being so kind to allow me to post your interview.

To order the new Genographic test click on Geno 2.0

Emily, 26 Jul 2012

National Geographic Announces New DNA Test

Geno 2.0:  A Step Forward to the Past

Now that the Genetic Genealogy World has grown accustomed to the recent autosomal DNA testing from such companies as Family Tree DNA and 23andMe, along comes another exciting test from The National Geographic Society.

Ever exploring our past, The National Geographic Society established the Genographic Project  in April 2005 which tested indigenous populations around the world to gain more knowledge about human migration.  This study allowed the general public to become a part of that scientific research, and it created the Legacy Fund to give back to the indigenous populations for their assistance.  These three core components will continue as National Genographic takes us into the next arena of DNA testing.

Building on its world-wide testing, the Genographic Project introduces the Geno 2.0 Test which will revolutionize what we know currently regarding our ancient ancestors.

Geno 2.0 Chip

Since “off-the-shelf” chips were not adequate for Geno 2.0, Genographic designed their own chip. The autosomal and X-Chromosome SNPs (Single Nucleotide Polymorphism*) were selected by Eran Elhaik, PhD at John Hopkins, who picked Ancestry Informative Markers (AIMs) from approximately 450 worldwide population groups. Medical and trait SNPs were omitted. This means you cannot determine such characterizes as hair color or diseases from this test, thus not allowing medical or political studies of the results.  

Over 130,000 X-DNA and Autosomal DNA SNPs were collected to study gene flow between hominids and modern humans.  SNPs from hominids used to design the GenoChip included Paleo-Eskimo Saqqaq, Aboriginal Australian, Neanderthal, Denisovan, and Chimpanzee.

As AIMs show differences in allele frequencies across population groups, and as these markers are honed over time, the ability to distinguish between populations will be increasingly more detailed.

Autosomal and X-DNA

Geno 2.0 uses 130,000 autosomal and X-chromosomal SNPs including 30,000 SNPs from regions of interbreeding between extinct hominids and modern humans.  This Geno 2.0 test compares your result with several of these populations including the Neanderthals and the Denisovan.

Recently, DNA evidence has shown that modern humans inbred with the Neanderthal who populated Western Eurasia. Neanderthal DNA is 99.7 percent identical to humans, and scientists believe that many humans may have inherited 1-4% of their DNA from Neanderthals.  Scientists also believe some modern humans inbred with the Denisovans who populated Eastern Eurasia.  It is thought that islanders in Papua New Guinea may be distant cousins of the Denisovan.  With the discovery in 2008 of a 40,000-year-old finger bone found in Siberian Russia’s Denisova cave of a young girl, referred to as X-Woman, and a tooth of a Denisovan adult, the entire Denisovan genome has been extracted. 

Besides the X-DNA and autosomal DNA, the Geno 2.0 test uses an extensive number of SNP markers from Mitochondria DNA and Y-DNA which also will improve the scientific geographic origins of our ancient ancestry by delineating between populations and narrowing the geographic areas where our ancient ancestors were located. This means breaking down a European haplogroup into smaller locations, a wonderful advantage for studying your ancient ancestry and its migration.

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA)

Geno 2.0 will use the new Phylogentic Tree** from Dr. Doron Behar’s paper A Uniquely Anthropological Approach to Human Origins and Dispersals. Dr. Behar and his colleagues have revolutionized the mtDNA Phylogentic tree so that instead of comparing your mtDNA to the rCRS (Revised Cambridge Reference Sequince), the new RSRS (Reconstructed Sapiens Reference Sequence) will be implemented. The RSRS is a proposed system comparing mitochondrial markers which includes the known Neanderthal sequences. This system gives a more accurate view in that haplogroups closer to our origins will have fewer mutations than those haplogroups which are more recent, thus displaying the haplogroups in a better time-oriented sequence.  In the past the rCRS showed fewer mutations for Haplogroup H (the CRS contributor’s haplogroup) with many for haplogroups that are more ancient and closer to Mitochondria Eve, the oldest-known female haplogroup, thus displaying mutations in a better time-oriented sequence.

Y-DNA

About 15,000 SNPs with both new SNPs and SNPs from the established Y-DNA Phylogentic Tree will be included in this test.  With these new SNPs, we can expect the Phylogentic Tree for Y-DNA to explode! There will be more Haplogroup subclades than ever before, thus helping testers determine in detail who is more closely related as well as providing younger and more geographically relevant Y-DNA branches.  It not only refines the twigs (subclades) on the Y-DNA tree, but will define the relationships between those twigs (subclades).  This level of SNP testing will provide a much more accurate age for Y-SNP-based lineage to better clarify Bronze Age migrations from late Neolithic migrations which is important in understanding early history and pre-history.

Your Personal Webpages

Results Page

Your Story Page

Besides your results page, the new Genographic webpages for testers provide a section entitled “Your Story” where you learn more about your branch of the human tree.  It gives you a map of the journey your ancestors took thousands of years ago from Africa.  You will be able to view the migration map step by step with anecdotal information at each step.  As your reach a more recent time, you will be able to add your story to the migration map and 
connect with others who have done the same.  Thus, if you know your ancestor came from Krefeld, Germany in 1683, you can add that fact and see if others who have tested came from the same area.  Another section entitled “Who Am I” provides your ancestral make-up, including your percentage of various populations, including Neanderthal and Denisovan.

In summary:

•        The Geno 2.0 test is $199.95 with free shipping in the US

•        Results are expected to take 4-6 weeks after the initial beta testing is completed

•        The Family Tree DNA lab in Houston will do the testing

•        All data can be downloaded for your genotype

•        Reference populations being used will be downloadable

•        For men, the test uses Y-DNA, mtDNA, X-DNA, and Autosomal DNA SNPs

•        For women, the test uses mtDNA, X-DNA, and Autosomal DNA SNPs

•        The test yields both paternal and maternal haplogroup results for males and maternal haplogroup results for females. Details of the haplogroups are provided

•        This test esentually replaces the DeepClade test and takes the haplogroup designation to greater detail, allowing a more specific geographic association with the terminal SNP

•        A Migration map and a frequency distribution map for your genotype gives you specifics about your haplogroup and helps you understand the results

•        The new website will allow you to enter information about your lineage and see the same from your matches

•        You can e-mail those near matches who are related to you through the site, but know that these matches are on an anthropological time frame and not a genealogical one

•        You can share your information on various social media such as Facebook and Twitter

•        You can transfer your test results from National Genographic to Family Tree DNA (FTDNA) at no charge

•        Genographic will e-mail everyone who has transferred their original test to FTDNA to notify them of Geno 2.0

•        Existing consents with FTDNA to manage testers’ results will not be useful for this test as a new DNA sample must be taken

Some features will not be available at launch, and many others will be introduced in the coming months.  Besides, the emphasis on DNA, Genographic will announce a new structure for funding their Legacy Project and place a greater emphasis on educational initiatives, called GenoThreads.  

Geno 2.0 kit

Be among the first to order you Geno 2.0 kit!

Website:  www.genographic.com

Footnotes:

* SNP.  Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms are special markers geneticists use to determine a person’s twig on the world family tree.

**  Phylogenetic Tree. The Phylogenetic Tree is the world’s family tree and is expressed in an alternating series of letters and numbers, such as U5a1a1.  The letter U is the branch and each consecutive number or letter is a twig branching from the previous twig.  Both Y-DNA and mtDNA have Phylogenetic Trees.


Enjoy,
Emily, 25 Jul 2012

Family Tree DNA Webinar Schedule

Family Tree DNA announces some great Webinars.  I personal know Elise who has written and who conducts them.

Family Tree DNA partners with Relative Roots to offer quality, convenient and affordable Genetic Genealogy education to Family Tree DNA customers!  Webinars (web-based seminars) are an option for our customers to learn more about our tests and your own results.

How it Works
Attend our live or on-demand webinars (web-based seminars) from the comfort of your own home! You’ll view the presentation using your own computer and listen to the presenter using your computer speakers or telephone. Attendees of our live webinars are able to ask questions just as if you were attending a presentation in-person. Registrants of our on-demand webinars can access a recording of our live webinars at a time that is convenient for you. Each webinar session lasts 60-90 minutes.

Topics
We're launching our webinars with four topics:

Beginner:

• Introduction to Genetic Genealogy at Family Tree DNA

Intermediate:

• Genetic Genealogy Demystified: Reading and Understanding Your Family Tree DNA Results, Part 1: Y-DNA
• Genetic Genealogy Demystified: Reading and Understanding Your Family Tree DNA Results, Part 2: mtDNA
• Genetic Genealogy Demystified: Reading and Understanding Your Family Tree DNA Results, Part 3: Family Finder

Stay tuned for more topics to be added to the schedule in the coming months!

Cost
Introduction to Genetic Genealogy - FREE!
Demystified series is - $10 each, or 3 for $25
Starting and Managing an FTDNA DNA Project is $10

Family Tree DNA Discount
Webinar attendees will receive a limited-time discount on select new tests and upgrades to help offset the cost of attending the webinar. A coupon code will be provided at the end of each live webinar and will also be available to those who view the on-demand recordings.

Webinar Schedule
Our core webinars are currently repeated every month.  Following is the webinar schedule for July & August:

• Jul 26 - Genetic Genealogy Demystified: Reading and Understanding Your Family Tree DNA Results, Part 2: mtDNA
• Jul 31 - Genetic Genealogy Demystified: Reading and Understanding Your Family Tree DNA Results, Part 3: Family Finder
• Aug 5 - Introduction to Genetic Genealogy at Family Tree DNA
• Aug 9 - Genetic Genealogy Demystified: Reading and Understanding Your Family Tree DNA Results, Part 1: Y-DNA
• Aug 14 - Genetic Genealogy Demystified: Reading and Understanding Your Family Tree DNA Results, Part 2: mtDNA
• Aug 21 - Genetic Genealogy Demystified: Reading and Understanding Your Family Tree DNA Results, Part 3: Family Finder
• Aug 23 – Starting and Managing a Family Tree DNA Project

Register Today!
For registration, more details about each of the webinars and schedule updates, please visit:
http://www.relativeroots.net/webinars/ftdna/

About Relative Roots

Relative Roots is a Florida-based genealogy consulting and education company, owned and operated by Elise Friedman.  Elise became a Family Tree DNA customer in 2005 while working on her own genealogy brick walls.  She quickly became a proponent of genetic genealogy as a tool for genealogists, and today she's a volunteer administrator for several surname, geographical and haplogroup projects at Family Tree DNA.  Over the years, she has given presentations on genetic genealogy at a variety of genealogy society meetings and genealogy conferences.  Then earlier this year, Elise took her presentations online and began offering genetic genealogy webinars through her company, Relative Roots.  Family Tree DNA is very pleased to now have Elise as our education partner so we can offer this new educational opportunity to our customers.

Enjoy,

Emily

Family Tree DNA Sale - Ends July 15th

Family Tree DNA has just announced a short, but WONDERFUL, sale!

This is a grand opportunity to upgrade your test, buy a new one, get tests for a family reunion, or to hold for the future when you find a relative to test or someone you suspect could be related.

Special Summer Prices

NEW KITS

Y-DNA 12..............................$59..........was $99
Y-DNA 37............................$129..........was $149
Y-DNA 67............................$199..........was $239
Family Finder.......................$199..........was $289
mtFullSequence (FMS)........$219..........was $299
FF+Y-DNA 37.....................$328..........was $438
Comprehensive (FF-FMS+Y-DNA 67)......$617..........was $797
Super DNA..................................................$428..........was $518

UPGRADES

12 to 37 Y-DNA......................$70..........was $109
25 to 37 Y-DNA......................$35..........was $59
25 to 67 Y-DNA.....................$114.........was $159
37 to 67 Y-DNA.......................$79.........was $109
37 to 111 Y-DNA....................$188........was $220
67 to 111 Y-DNA....................$109........was $129
mtHVR1 to Mega....................$209........was $269
mtHVR2 to Mega....................$199........was $139

Order msut be in and paid by 11:59 PM on Sudnay July 15th to reeive this offer. 
Credit cards are considered paid.

To Order A Upgrade

To Order a New Kit


Enjoy,
Emily

Family Tree DNA SALE for Family Finder Test

Family Tree DNA is offering a sale on the Family Finder autosomal test. 

The regular price is $289, but until June 10th, you can get this test for $179.  This is the lowest price it has ever been!

To order it you need a code and that code is only good for one test.  These codes were distibuted to those who have taken the Family Finder test.  I have twenty codes left, and you can email me for one of them if you are going to test.  That email is:  aulicino at hevanet.com

Both males and females can take this test and it gives the tester matches on his or her six-generation pedigree chart. You have 64 fourth-great-grandparents, and all of the people who descend from them could potentially be your matches. Granted not everyone has tested (thank goodness in some ways!), but this still can net you a hundred matches or more. As you receive their name and email, you contact them and compare lineages.

As the match could be anywhere on that six-generation pedigree chart, you can test yourself and a few cousins to determine on what branch the match and you have a common ancestor.  For example, I have tested my paternal first cousin, Doug, and my paternal grandmother's nephew (my first cousin once removed), Dan.  If Dan and I match the same unknown person in my Family Finder list, I know that that unknown match is related to my paternal grandmother.  If Doug and I match, but Dan doesn't, it is highly likely that the unknown match is on my father's father's line. If all three of us match an unknown person, the common ancestor is on my paternal grandmother's line.  This process can be done with examples of your cousins from your four grandparents as well as from various second and third cousins.

It is always wonderful to find matches as they could have more information on your family than you do, and it gives you another person with whom you can research.

Email me for a code and get the Family Finder test at the lowest price it has ever been! 

I hope we are cousins!

Enjoy
Emily
30 May 2012