Subject: [OHIO] Professional researchers on the internet Date: Fri, 22 May 1998 11:48:02 -0500 From: John Lannom <jtlannom@one.net> To: OHIO-ROOTS-L@LISTSERV.INDIANA.EDU I just noted a query for someone looking for a professional researcher on the internet. I responded privately, but think I should let the OHIO newsgroup know my experience. Last January, 1998, I e-mailed Diana Hanson for information on doing some research for me. Diana is connected with WorldGenWeb, IrelandGenWeb, is a list owner of an Irish newsgroup, has an online school and I believe teaches genealogy online also. She lists herself as a 'professional' genealogist. My first hint of a problem began after I hired her, sent her my money along with my ancestor information only to discover she had switched internet servers without notifying the people who hired her. I was finally able to locate her and she apologized. At this time I have not received any correspondence from her, e-mail or otherwise. Any contact is on my part only. I recently discovered the group WATCHDOG ran an article about her credentials in question, etc. I contacted WATCHDOG and they advised me to make an online fraud complaint which I, and others have done. Diana Hanson charged $50.00 for five hours work and was going to send back to me what she discovered and then I could decide to go further in $50.00 increments. Sounds good, right? Not so! I have requested return of my money and her response was she would return it when she got some money together. My cousin in NE hired her, too, and we both are waiting, waiting, waiting for our money returned. I have now hired an Irish genealogist in County Cork, Ireland named Thomas O'Leary. I recommend him highly. He sent me his resume and list of places he would do research, etc. He has corresponded with me several times outlining his progess, sending copies, etc. Very professional and honest. Just remember - BUYER BEWARE! ----------------------------------------------- Have you had an experience like this with the alledged. Write us. Fraud Detection inc _____________________________________________________________________ You don't need to buy Internet access to use free Internet e-mail. Get completely free e-mail from Juno at http://www.juno.com Or call Juno at (800) 654-JUNO [654-5866]