Tracing the Tribe: Roots Television: Telly Awards

RootsTelevision.com's co-founders - producer Marcy Brown and professional genealogist Megan Smolenyak Smolenyak - frequently refer to themselves as "two chicks and a channel." As I've watched the progress of the site, I've worked with Marcy on several segments as she filmed at Jewish genealogy conferences and I've even appeared in a few! 

It is great to report that the genealogy and family history site has garnered awards for four original productions, and that one was for Jewish genealogy's own gen-comedian Jordan Auslander of New York.

Congratulations to Marcy, Megan, Jordan and all honorees.

Provo, UT, March 28, 2008 --(PR.com)-- RootsTelevision.com, an online channel dedicated to all aspects of genealogy and family history, has been recognized in the 29th Annual Telly Awards for four of its original productions. Selected from more than 14,000 shows were "DNA Stories: A Tale of Two Fathers" (documentary), "Heir Jordan: Extreme Genealogy" (entertainment), "Roots Books: Psychic Roots" (talk show), and "Flat Stanley's Family Tree" (children's audience)

"We're delighted," said RootsTelevision.com co-founder, Marcy Brown. "To receive this kind of recognition during our first year of existence is remarkable, and winning in four different categories is even more astonishing. We take this as an indication that our decision to pioneer online programming for the substantial but neglected niche of millions of genealogists was a risk worth taking."

The four winning shows include an episode of "DNA Stories," a series that focuses on the exploding hobby of genetic genealogy and shows how avid roots-seekers are using DNA testing to solve family history riddles. The award-winning "Tale of Two Fathers" episode features Bob Zins and his efforts to determine whether the man who raised him was really his father. "Heir Jordan: Extreme Genealogy" showcases the unexpected twin talents of Jordan Auslander, who’s both a professional genealogist and stand-up comic.

"Roots Books," a talk show hosted by Sharon DeBartolo Carmack, received its award for the especially popular "Psychic Roots" episode that centers on a discussion of the role of serendipity in genealogy between Sharon and popular speaker and author, Hank Jones. And "Flat Stanley’s Family Tree" follows the beloved children’s character as he explores his colonial roots in Williamsburg, Virginia and his gold rush roots in California.

Founded in 1978, The Telly is the premier award honoring outstanding local, regional and cable TV programs, as well as the finest video and film productions. The Telly Awards, a highly respected international competition, annually showcases the best work of the most respected production companies in the world.

RootsTelevision.com was launched in 2006 and provides more than 1,000 videos for global enthusiasts.

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