This post includes updates from several members on topics of recent interests:

From Kevin Mittge:  More on DNA – view an article on Genealogy and Ethnicity Testing 3 Legitimate Companies

From Mike Allen: At Wednesday’s SGS meeting Mike recommended watching the PBS series Mercy Street. “Based on real events, Mercy Street takes viewers beyond the battlefield and into the lives of Americans on the Civil War home front as they face the unprecedented challenges of one of the most turbulent times in our nation’s history.’  Episode 2 of the series airs Sunday at 10:00 P.M. on OPB.  View episode 1 HERE.

From Pat Rongey:  Ellis Island Simulation at Siuslaw Middle School, 8th graders. The program is scheduled for Monday, February 1st from 2:10-3:10.  Also performing will be Rachel McClintock (from Living Voices).  She will perform at 8:30, 9:50 and 11:08 a.m. Anyone interested in helping with the presentation can obtain the volunteer paperwork online HERE. Contact Pat Rongey for further information. 541-603-5730.

Also from Pat Rongey: The Scary Truth About The Future of Your Genealogy Data and How You Can Preserve It.  View the article HERE.