Chula Vista Genealogy Society General Meeting

"Mixing DNA and the Paper Trail"

Presented by: Dr Penny Walters

Due to concern about the corona virus, the city of Chula Vista has closed all libraries.

All CVGS meetings are cancelled at these facilities until further notice. As soon as we have any updates, our members will be notified.

So, join us this month for our general meeting on virtual meeting with Penny Walters presenting.

If you are not already receiving invitations to our ZOOM meetings please contact Randy Seaver at: randy.seaver@gmail.com and request your invitation.

Dr Penny Walters will explain in this session how to merge established paper trails with DNA results. The biology and jargon of DNA can be overwhelming and people have had to learn this new branch of genealogy quickly. Through DNA testing, people receive ethnicity estimates, a heritage map, a list of people that DNA ‘matches’ (overlaps) with, and the opportunity to contact them and collaborate if both parties want to.

The advantages and disadvantages of different DNA tests will be explored; a consanguinity chart will be provided; useful information for adopted people will be given; uploading to GEDmatch and utilising the MRCA (most recent common ancestor) information, and triangulation, will be explained. Attendees will be shown how to add ‘useful’ DNA matches to their tree to inform a re-structured paper trail. A variety of ethical dilemmas will be outlined.

Dr. Penny Walters has been a University lecturer for 30 years in Psychology and Business Studies. Penny’s interest in genealogy started after having her first child and then wondering about her biological parents, as she was adopted. DNA testing has revealed 94% Irish heritage; and fascinating insights into her children’s heritage. Penny lectures internationally in-person, presents webinars, and writes articles about a variety of genealogy topics. Penny has authored the books: Ethical Dilemmas in Genealogy and The Psychology of Searching, both available in paperback or Kindle on Amazon. See Penny’s website at: Home | www.searchmypast.co.uk

Attendance is free but only 100 seat are available so please register soon.