Our First MCGG Friday Meeting of 2019 is: Exploring MyHeritage Library Edition

On Friday, January 4, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. in the Auditorium of the Mount Clemens Public Library, MCGG member Lisa Eschenburg will present Exploring MyHeritage Library Edition on MeL.org which is a free resource for all Michigan residents.

If you are in the Mt. Clemens area, PLEASE JOIN US.

See you soon at the Mt. Clemens Public Library!
LE

Lots of Genealogy-Related Sales End at Midnight Tonight -- Don't Drop the Ball

Just a reminder that a lot of genealogy-related sales end tonight at midnight. 

So if you've been holding off buying that DNA kit, those genealogy books that caught your eye, renewing a magazine subscription or two, or getting that electronic device to aid your work today might be the day to check those prices before you head out to celebrate and see if anything on your genealogy wish list can be fulfilled.

Have a Safe and Happy New Year!

See you soon at Mt. Clemens Public Library!
LE

BMD Certificate and PDF Pricing for England and Wales Records at GRO Website will Rise on February 16, 2019

We spotted on another blog site who spotted from an electronic newsletter, LostCousins Newsletter, that the cost of the Birth, Marriage and Death Certificates for England and Wales from the General Records Office (GRO) are going up in price on February 16, 2019.

The cost will rise from £9.25 to £11 for a certificate (an 18.9% increase) and from £6 to £7 for a PDF copy of a register entry (16.7% more.) Currency rates fluctuate so as of today this means in U.S. dollars from $11.70 to $13.92 for a certificate and $7.59 to $8.86 for a PDF.

These are the civil registration certificates that began in 1837. You can find out more information on ordering a certificate or a PDF from the Extended PDF Pilot program on the BMD page of the GRO site. (Only birth and death records along with certain time frames for each are available as a PDF.) A GRO Index reference must be included in the application order form. Be sure to check out the "Most Customers Want to Know" for more information on problems with passwords or emails, the indexes and the order form.

See you soon at Mt. Clemens Public Library!
LE

Family Book Creator Plugin for Family Tree Maker is on Sale until Year End

We were not going to resume posting yet BUT since most of our members use some version of Family Tree Maker as their genealogy program ...

Software MacKiev announced on its Family Tree Maker Facebook page in its December 24th post that from now until the end of the year the plugin Family Book Creator is on sale in its Software MacKiev store for 25% off which reduces the price to $39.95 from its $55 regular price.

Currently this plug-in is only for the PC version of Family Tree Maker. You can find the country specific links that take you directly to the item in the Software MacKiev website store towards the bottom of the Facebook post. Don't worry you do not have be on Facebook to see the Family Tree Maker Facebook page. Here is the link for US customers to the store.

The Family Book Creator plugin by Stefan Harm is rarely on sale though it had been discounted by $5 in the Software MacKiev store lately. The software plugin is distributed by download but you can purchase it on CD for an extra $10 plus $5.95 shipping. [Note: you can just as easily copy the download-distributed software installation file to a USB drive as an external back-up of the installation program.]

This plugin has many features and can seem a bit complicated. It does, however, create an editable Microsoft Word document file unlike the Family Tree Maker 2017 built-in Publish workspace though the documents differ. The Family Book Creator plugin does not have a stand-alone version (like Charting Companion does) but it does have its own website where you can learn more about the plugin. Be aware on its own website the software plugin is only 20 percent off ($43.96) until the end of the year. There is a trial version if you want to investigate the plugin further but it has limitations.

Though we have not found a tutorial video for this plugin to see it in action, there is a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) list under the Support tab on the Family Book Creator website. Under question number 8, there is a link to the FBC2017 User Guide which appears to be the information in the plugin program's built-in Help and would be an good way to learn about the plugin's capabilities.

If you have been wondering about the Family Book Creator plugin or thinking about getting it, now is a good time to investigate and learn more about it so you can take advantage of the sale price.

See you soon at Mt. Clemens Public Library!
LE

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and Happy New Year 2019 to Everyone!

There are cookies to bake, gifts to wrap among other things. We'll be back posting late next week about our January meetings.

Until then, we hope you and your family near and far have a safe and happy holiday season.

See you soon at Mt. Clemens Public Library!
LE

Are You a FamilyTree Maker 2017 Owner? You Can Now Gift FTM2017 at 50% Off

Software MacKiev announced in it's mailing list a new privilege for Family Tree Maker 2017 owners: FTM2017 owners can use a special gift store to gift FTM2017 at 50% off ($39.95) to family and friends who do not already own FTM2017.

Use the gift link, pick the version (download, download with DVD, download with USB) you want, decide if you want to include any add-ons (two plug-ins and various gifts some at discounted prices) then after you click the order button provide the gift recipient's email and mailing address and your billing information to make the purchase.
Note shipped items DVD or USB (which have additional shipping costs) will not arrive in time for Christmas but a download of the program comes with both the DVD and USB option so the recipient does not have to wait to access the program. An email gift notice with download links is sent out to the recipient as soon as you order, so if you want it to arrive on Christmas Eve then wait to place the order on December 24.

Please note that if you go to the Software MacKiev website shopping area directly, you will see FTM 2017 for sale at its normal price of $79.95 for the download only PC/Mac. So Family Tree Maker 2017 owners wanting to make the gift of FTM2017 to someone need to use the special gift store set up for this offer.

The FTM mail list email sent recently also has links for FTM 2017 owners to purchase the Companion Guide and the two plug-ins for FTM. The Charting Companion 7 plug-in is 25 percent off and you can save $5 off of Family Book Creator plug-in.

Didn't get the FTM email with the announcement? Then go to the Software MacKiev website's Family Tree Maker page and sign up for the mailing list. When you sign-up you are asked which version of FTM you own. MacKiev appears to use that information to tailor the mail list to the subscribers.

Next year Family Tree Maker will turn 30. The recent email hinted that the next mailing list email will have information on a 30th Anniversary celebration.

See you soon at Mt. Clemens Public Library!
LE

Haven't Upgraded to Family Tree Maker 2017 Yet? Software MacKiev Offers Discount But There is Not Much Time Left

note: originally posted Wednesday, December 19, 2018 at 12:55 pm ET

Software MacKiev announced on its Facebook page late on Sunday, December 16, 2018, that it is offering a discount up to 50 percent off on upgrade pricing to Family Tree Maker 2017 from ANY version of Family Tree Maker sold prior to Software MacKiev's FTM 2017 which is the current version.

That means any version of Family Tree Maker: FTM 2014.1 sold by Software MacKiev; FTM 2014 and earlier sold by Ancestry.com; or any prior publisher of earlier versions.
This was announced as a 3-day sale on Software MacKiev's Family Tree Maker Support page which was posted on Sunday, December 16. However as of this morning the links to the upgrade and gift sale listed on the Family Tree Maker Facebook page and the Support page post are still working. So this sale's exact end day or time in not sure. If/when we learn this, we'll let you know.

Added in Note: We asked Software MacKiev for clarification on the sale end date because the Sunday, Dec. 16 post on the support page said a 3-day sale and the Sunday, Dec. 16 post on Family Tree Maker's Facebook page said the sale was thru Monday. If you count Sunday as the first day that would mean the sale end was Tuesday, Dec. 18, which conflicts with the Facebook post that said Monday. The Facebook post did not specify which Monday -- Dec. 17, Dec. 24 or Dec. 31. After contacting Software MacKiev we learned this sale was to end Tuesday, December 18 2018. However as we noted earlier today the links to the sales (on the Facebook page and Support page are still working. The LiveChat representative suggested trying the links and signing up for the FTM mail list (even if you have not upgraded to Family Tree Maker 2017 yet) so you get the offers in the future if you are not ready yet to upgrade now. Just to note, we did sign up for the mail list and the purchase link in that first email sent out took us to the website store with the regular prices. When we signed up we said we did not currently own a FTM version and that may be why so make sure to enter your current version of FTM when you sign up for the mail list.  Remember if you have a prior FTM version there usually is upgrade pricing which varies depending upon which previous version you own.

Those FTM users on Software MacKievs' mailing list who have not registered an upgrade to FTM 2017 with the company were sent an email with this offer. If you are on the mailing list and have registered a FTM 2017 then you were not sent the email because you already have the latest version.

Information and a FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) List can be found on Software MacKiev's Facebook page (you don't have to be a Facebook member to see it) or on the FTM Support page. The post has different links to the sale upgrade pricing depending upon where you live. Here is the link for US customers.

From a question on the post, we learned that you can give the gift of Family Tree Maker 2017 at sale prices even to those that do not currently have any version of FTM. Use the gift link, pick the version (download, download with DVD, download with USB) you want, decide if you want to include any add-ons (two plug-ins and various gifts) then after you click the order button provide the gift recipient's email and mailing address and your billing information to make the purchase.

Note shipped items DVD or USB (which have additional shipping costs) may not arrive in time for Christmas depending on when you place the order and where it has to go. But a download of the program comes with both the DVD and USB option so the recipient does not have to wait to access the program.

Please note that if you go to the Software MacKiev website shopping area directly, you will see FTM 2017 for sale at its normal price of $79.95 for the download only PC/Mac. So you need to use the links from the email, Facebook post, FTM support page post, or above (US customers) that we've provided for your convenience.

See you soon at Mt. Clemens Public Library!
LE

The Macomb County Genealogy Group Reveals Its Meeting Topics for 2019

Hi Everyone!

We have released MCGG's 2019 Winter/Spring meeting schedules for our MCGG Friday Group and our Let's Talk...Genealogy discussion group on Wednesday. 

The meeting dates and topics can be found on the respective pages of this blog site or in our Southeast Michigan Genealogy Events calendar on the Calendar page. (In the coming weeks we will be updating the SouthEast Michigan Genealogy calendar for the area's other societies and groups.)

On both the MCGG Friday Meetings and Let's Talk Meetings pages, you will now find the PDF file link of our current meetings flyer which can be viewed and downloaded. (Please note the image of the flyer in this post is just a low-res image. To see/download the flyer PDF you need to go to either of the meeting pages.)

We hope you enjoy the coming genealogy season. 

See you soon at the Mt Clemens Public Library!
LE

This Wednesday's Let's Talk...Genealogy Meeting Topic is the Fold3 website

This Wednesday, December 12, at 7 p.m. in the Local History and Genealogy Room of the Mount Clemens Public Library is this month's MCGG Let's Talk...Genealogy discussion group meeting. Our topic for the night is ... Fold3: Pensions and Other Military Records.
 
Let's share and learn about the military records on the Fold3 website. 

New attendees are always welcome.

See you soon at the Mt. Clemens Public Library!
LE

Who Do You Think You Are? on Air Again, Continues with Four Additional Episodes

We just learned that Who Do You Think You Are?  resumed airing with four additional episodes. (There appears to be some question of whether it is Season 10 continued or a very, very short Season 11 with just four episodes.) The first episode aired on Monday, Dec. 3, at 10 p.m. ET on the cable television channel, The Learning Channel aka TLC.

This past Monday's episode featured celebrity guest Mandy Moore and was followed at 11 p.m. by an episode from a prior season. The three remaining episodes feature:

• Josh Duhamel airing Monday, Dec. 10 at 10 p.m., followed by an episode from a prior season; and
• Regina King and Matthew Morrison both episodes airing Monday, Dec. 17, starting at 9 p.m.

The Season 10's six episodes (which first aired in May 2018) were: Hillary Duff, Jean Smart, John Cryer, Laverne Cox, Megan Mullally, and Molly Shannon.

Everyone has different television delivery/provider systems. Use your television provider's schedule system to find the TLC channel number on your provider system and to learn when the show will be re-aired again.

Also, the episodes are usually available on the TLC website page sometime after they have aired. So if you don't have TLC you should be able to watch the show on your computer over the internet. You can keep up with the show in its Facebook page even if you are not on FaceBook.

See you soon at Mt. Clemens Public Library!
LE

Free DNA Transfers to MyHeritageDNA Now Extended to December 15, 2018

According to the MyHeritage Blog, MyHeritageDNA has extended its FREE DNA transfers until December 15, 2018, so if you already tested at another DNA testing company you can still download your RAW DNA data from that site and upload it to MyHeritage for free. This is a great way to get your tests into a different "pool" of potential DNA matches. Why? Because you never know where someone tested. We suggest if you are going to do a transfer make sure you do so by December 15 to ensure your tests qualify to be grandfathered in. As of December 16, the new rules, what ever they are, will go into effect.

MyHeritageDNA accepts raw DNA data from Family Tree DNA, AncestryDNA (V1 and V2 version chips), and 23andMe (V2, V3 and V4 chips.) Very recently MyHeritage began supporting uploads of 23andMe (v5) and LivingDNA data files which are on the GSA chip.

Users that upload their DNA data files prior to December 15, 2018, receive full access to DNA Matching, Ethnicity Estimates, chromosome browser and more for free. This free access for all DNA data that is uploaded to MyHeritage before December 15, 2018, will continue to enjoy full access to all DNA features for free because these uploads will be grandfathered in and will remain free.

For DNA data files uploaded December 16, 2018, or after, DNA matching will remain free for uploaded DNA data but unlocking additional DNA features (like ethnicity estimate, chromosome browser and some others) will require an extra payment.

Not sure how to download your raw DNA data from the site you tested on and how to upload it? Check this MyHeritage help page.

See you soon at Mt. Clemens Public Library! 
LE

Just 3 Days until Free Autosomal DNA Transfers to MyHeritageDNA End

MyHeritageDNA is still offering FREE DNA transfers until December 1, 2018, so if you already tested at another DNA testing company you can download your RAW DNA data from that site and upload it to MyHeritage for free. This is a great way to get your tests into a different "pool" of potential DNA matches. You never know where someone tested. We suggest if you are going to do a transfer make sure you do so by November 30 to ensure your tests qualify to be grandfathered in.

MyHeritageDNA accepts raw DNA data from Family Tree DNA, AncestryDNA (V1 and V2 version chips), and 23andMe (V2, V3 and V4 chips.) Very recently MyHeritage began supporting uploads of 23andMe (v5) and LivingDNA data files which are on the GSA chip.

Users that upload their DNA data files prior to December 1, 2018, receive full access to DNA Matching, Ethnicity Estimates, chromosome browser and more for free. This free access for all DNA data that is uploaded to MyHeritage before December 1, 2018, will continue to enjoy full access to all DNA features for free because these uploads will be grandfathered in and will remain free.

For DNA data files uploaded after December 1, 2018, DNA matching will remain free for uploaded DNA data but unlocking additional DNA features (like ethnicity estimate, chromosome browser and some others) will require an extra payment.

Not sure how to download your raw DNA data from the site you tested on and how to upload it? Check this MyHeritage help page.

See you soon at Mt. Clemens Public Library! 
LE

Family Tree DNA Continues Sale as Holiday Sale until December 31, 2018

The Thanksgiving Offer has continued at the Holiday Sale at Family Tree DNA until December 31, 2018. A large variety of DNA tests are on sale similar to what has been seen prior in its annual holiday sales. Shipping and taxes are extra which vary depending on where the test is being shipped. Shipping to Michigan was $12.95 (the last we know of) which covers receiving and sending the test.

The new Family Tree DNA test kit box.

Also new this year, Family Tree DNA tests will come in a box suitable for gift wrapping and presentation. While all the other DNA testing companies have used printed boxes for shipping their tests to customers, Family Tree DNA continued to ship their tests simply in poly-shipping bags with just the test kit items and the padded envelope used to send the completed test back to FTDNA. As a "gift" it was not that fantastic looking despite all the cool and helpful information and access to tools one would receive with the results.

So which tests are on sale? 

On its DNA test pages of the website, you can see a variety of DNA tests on sale.

Individual Tests
Autosomal Test (male or female) 
Family Finder is now $49, regularly $79 save $30 
This is a great sale price that does not happen often. The test briefly went down to $39 for the Black Friday/Cyber Monday weekend (a new lowest price) but we don't if it will happen again.

Y-DNA Test (male-only, father's direct male line) 
Y37 test is now $99, regularly $169 save $70

Y67 test is now $179, regularly $268 save $89

Y111 test is now $219, regularly $359 save $140

Big Y-500 test is now $499, regularly $649 save $150
Expert Level. Note: the Big Y500 includes the Y111 test which gets added to your cart as part of buying the Big Y-500.

mtDNA Test (male or female, mother's direct female line)
mtFull Sequence test is now $139, regularly $199 save $60
 
But that is not all that is on sale ...

If you sign into one of your Family Tree DNA tests, click on upgrades and at the top click on original pricing you will see the complete list of items on sale for the Thanksgiving Sale. The bundled test prices are good for new customers and current customers. The upgrade pricing applies to those existing kits that already have their results. We have included a list of the rest of the sale items below.

If you need help or have questions, customer service is available during the regular business hours of the company which is in the Central Time Zone. Check the FTDNA website for details.

Bundled Tests (for one individual)
Autosomal Test with Y-DNA Test (multiple tests "packaged" as one test kit for one male)
Family Finder with Y37 test package is now $143, regularly $238 save $95
 
Family Finder with Y67 test package is now $223, regularly $337 save $114

Family Finder with Y67 test and mtFull Squence test package is now $362, regularly $536 save $174

Family Finder with Y111 test and mtFull Squence test package is now $402, regularly $637 save $235

Autosomal Test with mtFull Sequence Test (multiple tests "packaged" as one test kit for one person who can be male or female) 
Family Finder with mtFull Sequence package is now $183, regularly $268 save $85

Upgrades for Existing Y-DNA and mtDNA Test Holders 
mtPlus to mtFull Sequence upgrade is now $109, reg. $159
y12 to y37 upgrade is now $69, reg. $109
y25 to y37 upgrade is now $35, reg. $59
y37 to y67 upgrade is now $69, reg. $109
y37 to y111 upgrade is now $148, reg. $228
y67 to y111 upgrade is now $89, reg. $129

y12 to Big Y-500 upgrade is now $489, reg. $629
y25 to Big Y-500 upgrade is now $489, reg. $599
y37 to Big Y-500 upgrade is now $459, reg. $569
y67 to Big Y-500 upgrade is now $399, reg. $499
y111 to Big Y-500 upgrade is now $349, reg. $449


You can compare these sale prices to those of the previous years' holiday sales by clicking on the FamilyTreeDNA label of this blog to see all posts about Family Tree DNA. Look for posts in November of the previous years for holiday pricing. As an example, last year a Y-37 DNA test was on sale for $129 (reg. $169) but with one of the weekly holiday rewards (often seen was a $20 off Y37, Y67 or Y111 test) that price dropped to $109. So this year's sale price of $99 is even better than last year's holiday sale pricing with a weekly holiday reward if you were lucky to get one you wanted.

If you (and the test you manage) belong to an FTDNA Project such as a Y-DNA surname project or geographical project, check if additional pricing discounts are offered with this sale. Normally, FTDNA project members receive pricing discounts on test prices.

Please remember, if you already have a DNA test at Family Tree DNA and want to upgrade that test to include another type of DNA test that is on sale (buy an upgrade to your existing test,) simply sign into that particular DNA test kit and then place the order. You will need to do this for each test separately if you plan to upgrade multiple tests. 

Also, remember that Family Tree DNA also has a DNA Automsomal Transfer option. Autosomal DNA Transfers can be done with 23andMe V3 or V4 tests; AncestryDNA V1 and V2 tests; and MyHeritageDNA tests. The initial transfer is free for a look at your matches and when it is complete it is just $19 to unlock the test to see more and be able to contact matches. We have two posts here and here that explain DNA Autosomal Transfers. An autosomal transfer is a data upload only so no physical test kit is mailed.

One genetic genealogist's advice for autosomal transfers is this: If you tested at MyHeritageDNA or on AncestryDNA v1 chip (with results back before May 2016) then do a transfer. If you tested at 23andMe, LivingDNA or on AncestryDNA v2 chip (with results back May 2016 and after) then purchase a FamilyFinder (autosomal) DNA test. DNA tests on the newer chips share less tested/sampled locations with the Family Tree DNA chip so you will get your closer DNA matches but not as many more distant matches.

Family Tree DNA does not require an annual subscription. Each test kit has its own login/password. You can manage your own test or allow (give access) to someone else to do so for you. Inside the test kit is a release form the tested person signs and sends with the samples so the DNA can be tested. There is also an option to indicate Beneficiary Information (who gets access to your DNA after you are gone) in the test kit account settings.

Unlike many of the other DNA/Genealogy testing companies, Family Tree DNA uses swabs to collect the sample not a spit tube. Swab collection makes it easier for elderly family members who often generate less spit to take a test. Family Tree DNA also is one of the few DNA testing companies that stores the DNA samples so upgrades (other test types) can be added later. And at just $49, the Family Finder (autosomal) DNA test is a great way to get started. 

See you soon at Mt. Clemens Public Library!
LE

Black Friday / Cyber Monday are Here! Even Better Deals can be Found!

note: originally posted at Friday, November 23, 2018, at 12:58 p.m. ET
It's Black Friday! There are lots of savings to be found around the internet and, of course, outside at the stores near home. Here is a run down of some newly announced savings.

Family Tree DNA
Just this morning Family Tree DNA announced its Family Finder (autosomal) DNA test is now on sale for its LOWEST PRICE EVER -- Just $39.

This offer at Family Tree DNA is good until November 26, 2018. Shipping and taxes are extra which vary depending on where the test is being shipped BUT for this sale there is reduced shipping costs on all test kits. Shipping to Michigan was $12.95 (the last we know of) which covers receiving and sending (domestic only) the test so it should be less than that.

Individual Tests
Autosomal Test (male or female) 
Family Finder is now $39, regularly $79 save $40 
This is now the test's lowest price offer ever.

ALSO the large variety of DNA tests that were on sale until yesterday, are still on sale today. See are previous post on the Thanksgiving offer but remember that the FamilyFinder test is now only $39. So if you thought you missed the Thanksgiving Offer you are in luck.

23andMe 
23andMe is having a Black Friday Sale too. At its website, you will find the 23andMe Ancestry Service (autosomal DNA) test on sale for $69 (regularly $99) and the 23andMe Ancestry + Health Service test on sale for $129 (regularly $199) with taxes and shipping extra. If you are interested in the 23andMe Ancestry + Health service test keeping reading this post under Amazon.

Amazon 
There are wide variety of items on sale at Amazon today and over the weekend thru Cyber Monday. Some sales are today only, some run thru Monday, some will be Monday only. 

One to note is that there is a $5 off any PRINT book order of $20 (code NOVBOOK18) that is sold and shipped by Amazon. The coupon code (see offer for other restrictions) is good until November 25, 2018, at 11:59 p.m. (PT).

Look for the above before buying.

Also the 23andMe Ancestry + Health Service is on sale for half-off only at Amazon. Regularly $199, now just $99. Remember to make sure to look for the Sold by 23andMe, Inc and Fulfilled by Amazon to be sure you are buying from 23andMe and not some other third-party seller.

Family Tree Magazine 
Family Tree Magazine is having a 50% off storewide sale from today until Monday, November 26, 2018. Note: there are few items not included in the sale. How-to Genealogy Videos are also 50% off. You can check shipping rates here if you are trying to decide where the best deals are for the books you are seeking.

Other 
According to GenealogyBargains Holiday Gift Guide, Ancestry.com Gift Memberships are 50 percent off too.

This are some of the many different genealogy-related websites that are offering Black Friday and Cyber Monday savings. We will highlight some of them that we know interest our members. See some of our more recent posts on the sales that started early. But rather than recreate the wheel, remember to visit Genealogy Bargains website often over the next several days to keep an eye on Thomas MacEntee's list of all the genealogy bargains he has found.

Lastly, keep an eye out over the weekend or on Monday for sales at the different genealogy software companies.  

• Legacy Family Tree has announced its Black Friday sale, just click on the Black Friday listing to see what is included in the 50% off sale. See our prior post on Legacy Family Tree and Family Tree Webinars
• Heredis is being sold for up to 80% off thru GenealogyBargains through Sunday, November 25, 2018. (If you go to the Heredis software website it is showing regular price. But if you already own an older version of Heredis you likely have an email with the offer direct from the company.) 
• RootsMagic via Genealogy Bargains just announced this afternoon a bundled sale of three of its products and books with a free upgrade to RootsMagic 8 when it is released in 2019 for 67 percent off. The download and ebooks bundle is just $29.95 with no shipping costs rather than $89.80 regular price. The download with printed books is just $39.95 with shipping costs rather than the $89.80 regular price.

Hopefully more genealogy software companies will be having sale too.

See you soon at Mt. Clemens Public Library!
LE

AncestryDNA Test Now $49 Until Nov. 26, Lowest Price Happens A Few Times a Year

As one sale ends, another begins. Ancestry.com is giving us an extra sale on AncestryDNA at an even better price than the one that just ended last night. This lowest pricing only happens a few times a year.

The AncestryDNA (autosomal) DNA test is now on sale for the lowest price it is ever sold at the Ancestry.com website for $49 plus taxes and shipping. Regular price is $99 so you now save almost 50 percent. This sale ends on November 26, 2018, at 11:59 p.m. ET. This lowest sale pricing is only happening at the Ancestry.com website and not at third-party websites.

AncestryDNA without a data/records membership subscription provides an ethnicity estimate, migrations, DNA matches, contacting matches, automatic updates to results, and shared matches.

AncestryDNA with a data/records membership subscription also gives you New Ancestor Discoveries, DNA Circles, Shared Ancestor Hints, Full access to matches' public trees, List of surnames in matches' trees, and list of birth locations in matches' trees. AncestryDNA does not provide a chromosome browser tool. Don't have an Ancestry data/records subscription? Ancestry offers an AncestryDNA Insights subscription for about $59/year which would give access to all of the DNA tools but not any data/records but you must call customer support for this option.

We are pretty sure the FREESHIPDNA code will not work with this sale on the Ancestry.com website but it does not hurt to try it especially if you are buying more than one test kit.

See you soon at Mt. Clemens Public Library!
LE

Black Friday / Cyber Monday Savings Now Legacy & Family Tree Webinars 50% Off

note: originally posted on November 20, 2018 at 12:20 p.m. Eastern Time.

Legacy Family Tree and Family Tree Webinars has started its Black Friday / Cyber Monday Sale for 2018. The sale runs from today, Nov. 20, 2018, until 11:59 p.m. MT tonight (Monday, November 26.) That's 1:59 a.m. EST.

The sale this year is 50 percent off various Legacy Family Tree 9.0 Deluxe software bundles and 50 percent off a Family Tree Webinars yearly membership. Legacy has set up a special Black Friday Sale catalog page for the sale.

Legacy Family Tree software has "two versions" built inside its genealogy software. The standard version is free. Just supply an email and download the software to start using it. The deluxe version is a pay version which gets you a code that unlocks many more features of the software. (Note: If you make a purchase do not select the upgrade pricing link as it will take you to the catalog entry that costs more than this special pricing. So just click the add to cart for the bundle or not bundled version you desire.)

Family Tree Webinars Membership gets you 24/7 access to over 800 full-length webinars/classes covering a very wide variety of genealogy-related subjects and the handouts/syllabus to those webinars/classes. This sale also works for existing membership renewals. Just be sure to sign in to your membership account before placing the order. If it is like last year, you will also get your added membership savings discount on top of the sale price.

This is just one of the many different genealogy-related websites that will be offering Black Friday and Cyber Monday savings. We will highlight some of them that we know interest our members. See some of our more recent posts on the sales that started early. But rather than recreate the wheel, remember to visit Genealogy Bargains website often over the next several days to keep an eye on Thomas MacEntee's list of all the genealogy bargains he has found.

See you soon at Mt. Clemens Public Library!
LE

MyHeritageDNA 2018 Black Friday Sale: Tests Now Just $49 with Free Ship Code

MyHeritage is having Black Friday Sale ... starting now. MyHeritageDNA (autosomal) tests regularly $79 each are on sale for $49 each until November 23, 2018, at 11:59 p.m. As a bonus use the code FREE18 for free shipping but remember taxes are extra.

MyHeritageDNA is one of the newer players in the DNA and genealogy testing niche. Its customer base is more international. As of earlier this year, the company has added a chromosome browser feature and has made its internal member messaging feature free. It also offers an ethnicity/admixture report and a list of DNA matches. No data subscription is needed to see/use all the DNA matching features. There are hints around the internet that additional features are in the works.

Take note that the FREE DNA Transfers to MyHeritage DNA End December 1, 2018 
MyHeritageDNA is still offering FREE DNA transfers until December 1, 2018, so if you already tested at another DNA testing company you can download your RAW DNA data from that site and upload it to MyHeritage. MyHeritageDNA accepts raw DNA data from Family Tree DNA, AncestryDNA (V1 and V2 version chips), and 23andMe (V2, V3 and V4 chips.) Very recently MyHeritage began supporting uploads of 23andMe (v5) and LivingDNA data files which are on the GSA chip.

Users that upload their DNA data files prior to December 1, 2018, receive full access to DNA Matching, Ethnicity Estimates, chromosome browser and more for free. This free access for all DNA data that is uploaded to MyHeritage before December 1, 2018, will continue to enjoy full access to all DNA features for free because these uploads will be grandfathered in and will remain free.

For DNA data files uploaded after December 1, 2018, DNA matching will remain free for uploaded DNA data but unlocking additional DNA features (like ethnicity estimate, chromosome browser and some others) will require an extra payment.

MyHeritageDNA can also be found on Amazon.com sold and shipped by Amazon. But at this time the current price (as of today) is similar to the regular price ($20 more) and not the sale price. Non-AmazonPrime members get free shipping due to the total cost and because it is fulfilled by Amazon; prime members just get quicker 2-day shipping for free. So for this sale it is cheaper to buy it directly from MyHeritage and not thru Amazon.

See you soon at Mt. Clemens Public Library! 
LE

At Tomorrow's MCGG Friday Meeting Learn About Enhancing Images & Records

Tomorrow, Friday, November 16, at 1:00 p.m. in the Auditorium of the Mount Clemens Public Library, MCGG member Robert McGarry will present Enhancing Images and Records using Scanning Techniques and Imaging Software.

If you are in the Mt. Clemens area, PLEASE JOIN US.

See you soon at the Mt. Clemens Public Library!
LE

Our Let's Talk...Genealogy Meeting is Tonight, Nov. 14, at 7 p.m. at MCPL

Today, Wednesday, November 14, at 7 p.m. in the Local History and Genealogy Room of the Mount Clemens Public Library is this month's MCGG Let's Talk...Genealogy discussion group meeting. Our topic for the night is ... Oral History: Capturing those Memories!
 
Let's share and learn how (and what) to interview our elders/family members to capture their memories before they are lost. There are a various ways to accomplish this. 

New attendees are always welcome.

See you soon at the Mt. Clemens Public Library!
LE

It's a Family Tree DNA Thanksgiving Offer, A Variety of Tests on Sale until Nov. 22

Normally, Family Tree DNA starts its annual holiday sale around this date each year and that sale runs through December 31 along with added mystery holiday rewards each week for test kit owners but it appears the company is mixing things up this year.

This year it is a Thanksgiving Offer sale at Family Tree DNA until November 22, 2018. A large variety of DNA tests are on sale similar to what has been seen prior in its annual holiday sales. Shipping and taxes are extra which vary depending on where the test is being shipped. Shipping to Michigan was $12.95 (the last we know of) which covers receiving and sending the test.

The new Family Tree DNA test kit box.

Also new this year, Family Tree DNA tests will come in a box suitable for gift wrapping and presentation. While all the other DNA testing companies have used printed boxes for shipping their tests to customers, Family Tree DNA continued to ship their tests simply in poly-shipping bags with just the test kit items and the padded envelope used to send the completed test back to FTDNA. As a "gift" it was not that fantastic looking despite all the cool and helpful information and access to tools one would receive with the results.

So which tests are on sale? 

On its DNA test pages of the website, you can see a variety of DNA tests on sale.

Individual Tests
Autosomal Test (male or female) 
Family Finder is now $49, regularly $79 save $30 
This is the test's lowest price offer and it does not happen often.

Y-DNA Test (male-only, father's direct male line) 
Y37 test is now $99, regularly $169 save $70

Y67 test is now $179, regularly $268 save $89

Y111 test is now $219, regularly $359 save $140

Big Y-500 test is now $499, regularly $649 save $150
Expert Level. Note: the Big Y500 includes the Y111 test which gets added to your cart as part of buying the Big Y-500.

mtDNA Test (male or female, mother's direct female line)
mtFull Sequence test is now $139, regularly $199 save $60
 
But that is not all that is on sale ...

If you sign into one of your Family Tree DNA tests, click on upgrades and at the top click on original pricing you will see the complete list of items on sale for the Thanksgiving Sale. The bundled test prices are good for new customers and current customers. The upgrade pricing applies to those existing kits that already have their results. We have included a list of the rest of the sale items below.

If you need help or have questions, customer service is available during the regular business hours of the company which is in the Central Time Zone. Check the FTDNA website for details.

Bundled Tests (for one individual)
Autosomal Test with Y-DNA Test (multiple tests "packaged" as one test kit for one male)
Family Finder with Y37 test package is now $143, regularly $238 save $95
 
Family Finder with Y67 test package is now $223, regularly $337 save $114

Family Finder with Y67 test and mtFull Squence test package is now $362, regularly $536 save $174

Family Finder with Y111 test and mtFull Squence test package is now $402, regularly $637 save $235

Autosomal Test with mtFull Sequence Test (multiple tests "packaged" as one test kit for one person who can be male or female) 
Family Finder with mtFull Sequence package is now $183, regularly $268 save $85

Upgrades for Existing Y-DNA and mtDNA Test Holders 
mtPlus to mtFull Sequence upgrade is now $109, reg. $159
y12 to y37 upgrade is now $69, reg. $109
y25 to y37 upgrade is now $35, reg. $59
y37 to y67 upgrade is now $69, reg. $109
y37 to y111 upgrade is now $148, reg. $228
y67 to y111 upgrade is now $89, reg. $129

y12 to Big Y-500 upgrade is now $489, reg. $629
y25 to Big Y-500 upgrade is now $489, reg. $599
y37 to Big Y-500 upgrade is now $459, reg. $569
y67 to Big Y-500 upgrade is now $399, reg. $499
y111 to Big Y-500 upgrade is now $349, reg. $449


You can compare these sale prices to those of the previous years' holiday sales by clicking on the FamilyTreeDNA label of this blog to see all posts about Family Tree DNA. Look for posts in November of the previous years for holiday pricing. As an example, last year a Y-37 DNA test was on sale for $129 (reg. $169) but with one of the weekly holiday rewards (often seen was a $20 off Y37, Y67 or Y111 test) that price dropped to $109. So this year's sale price of $99 is even better than last year's holiday sale pricing with a weekly holiday reward if you were lucky to get one you wanted.

If you (and the test you manage) belong to an FTDNA Project such as a Y-DNA surname project or geographical project, check if additional pricing discounts are offered with this sale. Normally, FTDNA project members receive pricing discounts on test prices.

Please remember, if you already have a DNA test at Family Tree DNA and want to upgrade that test to include another type of DNA test that is on sale (buy an upgrade to your existing test,) simply sign into that particular DNA test kit and then place the order. You will need to do this for each test separately if you plan to upgrade multiple tests. 

Also, remember that Family Tree DNA also has a DNA Automsomal Transfer option. Autosomal DNA Transfers can be done with 23andMe V3 or V4 tests; AncestryDNA V1 and V2 tests; and MyHeritageDNA tests. The initial transfer is free for a look at your matches and when it is complete it is just $19 to unlock the test to see more and be able to contact matches. We have two posts here and here that explain DNA Autosomal Transfers. An autosomal transfer is a data upload only so no physical test kit is mailed.

One genetic genealogist's advice for autosomal transfers is this: If you tested at MyHeritageDNA or on AncestryDNA v1 chip (with results back before May 2016) then do a transfer. If you tested at 23andMe, LivingDNA or on AncestryDNA v2 chip (with results back May 2016 and after) then purchase a FamilyFinder (autosomal) DNA test. DNA tests on the newer chips share less tested/sampled locations with the Family Tree DNA chip so you will get your closer DNA matches but not as many more distant matches.

Family Tree DNA does not require an annual subscription. Each test kit has its own login/password. You can manage your own test or allow (give access) to someone else to do so for you. Inside the test kit is a release form the tested person signs and sends with the samples so the DNA can be tested. There is also an option to indicate Beneficiary Information (who gets access to your DNA after you are gone) in the test kit account settings.

Unlike many of the other DNA/Genealogy testing companies, Family Tree DNA uses swabs to collect the sample not a spit tube. Swab collection makes it easier for elderly family members who often generate less spit to take a test. Family Tree DNA also is one of the few DNA testing companies that stores the DNA samples so upgrades (other test types) can be added later. And at just $49, the Family Finder (autosomal) DNA test is a great way to get started. 

See you soon at Mt. Clemens Public Library!
LE

The Next Let's Talk...Genealogy Meeting is this Wednesday, November 14, 2018!

This Wednesday, November 14, at 7 p.m. in the Local History and Genealogy Room of the Mount Clemens Public Library is this month's MCGG Let's Talk...Genealogy discussion group meeting. Our topic for the night is ... Oral History: Capturing those Memories!
 
Let's share and learn how (and what) to interview our elders/family members to capture their memories before they are lost. There are a various ways to accomplish this. 

New attendees are always welcome.

See you soon at the Mt. Clemens Public Library!
LE