It's okay to "copy GEDCOMS" etc., as long as one uses it as clues and goes to the trouble to double check the sources and look up the data given on the Ged... It still comes back to being responsible for the data you have, and the sources you have; and especially what one passes on. Sounds like you (Marie) have a good handle on the value of research. Good Hunting! Doris....A Texan in Georgia..... still shaking the family tree and dodging the nuts after 30+ years!!! ----- Original Message ----- From: "Marie McKinney" <[log in to unmask]> To: <[log in to unmask]> Sent: Tuesday, February 03, 2004 10:56 AM Subject: "Newbies" I am new to this list but I can't help to see the words "newcomers" or "newbies" mentioned in a context that they do not search anywhere except from their computer. I have been interested in genealogy for just 2 years and I do not rely on only the computer for answers. I spend endless hours at the library, courthouse and have spent a fortune on records from States that I can't go research for myself. In fact I have seen just the oppisite which is people who claim to be doing genealogy for 30 years and do nothing more than sit at their computer and copy GEDCOMS from other incompetent "researchers". Encouragement and constructive criticism will go much further in promoting solid and factual genealogy than comments and attitudes which discourage questions raised by "newbies". Marie McKinney To subscribe, change options, or unsubscribe please see the instructions at http://listlva.lib.va.us/archives/va-roots.html --- Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com). Version: 6.0.576 / Virus Database: 365 - Release Date: 1/30/2004 To subscribe, change options, or unsubscribe please see the instructions at http://listlva.lib.va.us/archives/va-roots.html