National Geographic Launches Local-Language Edition in Iran

WASHINGTON (Nov. 20, 2012)—The National Geographic Society, one of the world’s largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations, has launched a local-language edition of its official journal, National Geographic magazine, in Iran. This is the first time National Geographic has published in Iran. The local-language edition will be published in Farsi under the title “Gita Nama.” Babak Nikkhah Bahrami is the publisher.

Gita Nama will give readers access to the original content of the publication that has set the standard for excellence in reporting and photography for nearly 125 years. The magazine will be published as a monthly and will be available at popular newsstand kiosks and bookstores throughout Tehran. The single-issue newsstand price is 150,000 rials ($5.30 USD).

“We’re proud to offer the Iranian people a magazine that speaks to them in their language. The new edition will offer the people of Iran content, features and images in furtherance of our educational and scientific mission,” said Terry Adamson, executive vice president for the National Geographic Society. “With each monthly publication we hope to grow our audience and replicate the success we have seen with our other local-language editions.”

“Our launch of the magazine has received a tremendous amount of positive feedback from the readers and the media in Iran,” said Nikkah Bahrami. “The initial response indicates that Iranian readers have a strong affinity for the National Geographic Society and its publications. We are proud to introduce the first local-language edition of the magazine in Farsi, and we look forward to extending our reach in Iran as we move forward.”

Published in English since 1888, National Geographic magazine provides in-depth editorial coverage of cultures, nature, science and technology. The magazine reaches more than 60 million readers worldwide every month. In addition to its English edition, the magazine now appears in 37 local-language editions: Japanese, Spanish (separate editions for Spain and Latin America), Italian, Hebrew, Greek, French, German, Polish, Korean, Portuguese (separate editions for Portugal and Brazil), Danish, Swedish, Norwegian, Dutch, Chinese (traditional characters), Chinese (simple characters), Finnish, Turkish, Thai, Czech, Hungarian, Romanian, Russian, Croatian, Bahasa, Bulgarian, Slovenian, Serbian, Lithuanian, Arabic, Estonian, Latvian, Georgian, Mongolian and Iranian.

About the National Geographic Society

The National Geographic Society is one of the world’s largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations. Founded in 1888 to “increase and diffuse geographic knowledge,” the Society works to inspire people to care about the planet. National Geographic reflects the world through its magazines, television programs, films, music and radio, books, DVDs, maps, exhibitions, live events, expeditions, interactive media and merchandise. National Geographic magazine, the Society’s official journal, is read by more than 60 million people each month. The National Geographic Channel reaches 440 million households in 171 countries in 38 languages. National Geographic Digital Media receives more than 20 million visitors a month. National Geographic has funded more than 10,000 scientific research, conservation and exploration projects and supports an education program promoting geography literacy. For more information, visit www.nationalgeographic.com. Facebook: www.facebook.com/natgeo

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National Geographic Names Award-Winning Industry Veteran Brooke Runnette As President, National Geographic Television

WASHINGTON (Nov. 26, 2012)—Brooke Runnette has been named president of National Geographic Television (NGT), it was announced today by John Fahey, National Geographic Society chairman and CEO, to whom Runnette will report. She succeeds Maryanne Culpepper, whose departure was announced earlier this year.

Runnette is an Emmy- and Peabody Award-winning producer who recently joined the National Geographic Channels from Discovery Channel, where she was executive producer and director of development for specials, including Shark Week. She will transition over the next month from her current position as vice president, development and special projects, at the Channels into the role at NGT.

“Our top priority at National Geographic Television is finding and producing the best content and original programming to support the international growth and influence of our cable channels around the world,” said Fahey. “Brooke joined the National Geographic Channels just as we were searching for the right executive to lead our television production group, and we quickly realized that she was the perfect fit for that key role — with the passion, drive, experience and industry knowledge that can continue and build the National Geographic Television franchise. Brooke’s track record speaks for itself, and we are excited to have her on our team.”

“We were thrilled to have Brooke join National Geographic Channels, and this next step will further our important partnership with National Geographic Television,” added David Lyle, CEO, National Geographic Channels. “The role of NGT in expanding upon our recent success will be critical, and Brooke is exactly the partner we will need to make this happen.”

“I am beyond excited at this incredible opportunity,” said Runnette. “The power of the National Geographic brand is unparalleled, and I look forward to working with the team at NGT in producing relevant, entertaining and powerful programming that becomes part of the television zeitgeist.”

One of Runnette’s first assignments at the National Geographic Channels was related to the network’s key spring 2013 series “The 80’s: The Decade That Made Us,” from Jane Root’s Nutopia, and she will continue to executive produce this important series as she transitions to NGT.

As president of NGT, Runnette will oversee innovative series, big special events and live programming that bring the stories of National Geographic’s scientists, explorers and unique storytellers to the National Geographic Channels. Her vast experience and reputation with the best nonfiction producers and production companies worldwide will enable her to deliver creative, groundbreaking content.

While at Discovery, Runnette put greater emphasis on natural history as part of Shark Week and increased Shark Week ratings. Under her direction, the 2010 Shark Week was the highest rated in the 23-year history of the annual event. She also led efforts within Discovery to work more closely with scientists and conservation organizations such as Oceana and the Pew Charitable Trust’s Global Shark Conservation group.

Other landmark specials Runnette oversaw while at Discovery included “The Kennedy Detail” (nominated for a News & Documentary Emmy Award), Discovery Channel’s 25th Anniversary Week, the Amelia Earhart expeditions and current affairs programming such as “Secrets of Seal Team 6.”

Prior to joining Discovery Channel, she worked at TLC as executive director of programming, where she was executive producer of the hit series “Little People, Big World.”

Runnette was a producer for ABC News’ “Nightline,” and also produced for “Frontline,” CBS’s “60 Minutes II” and for Peter Jennings at ABC News, among others.

About National Geographic Television

National Geographic Television (NGT) is the documentary TV production arm of the National Geographic Society (NGS), known around the world for its remarkable visuals and compelling stories. NGS is one of the largest global scientific and educational organizations, supporting field science on every continent. In 1963 NGT broke ground by broadcasting on American network television the first moving pictures from the summit of Everest. Since then, NGT has continued to push technology to its limits to bring great stories to television audiences worldwide. With more than 138 Emmy Awards and nearly 1,000 other industry accolades, including recognition from the Peabody Awards, DuPont Columbia Awards and highest honors from natural history film festivals, NGT programming can be seen globally on the National Geographic Channels, as well as terrestrial and other cable and satellite broadcasters worldwide, and also on PBS in the United States. Globally, National Geographic Channels are received by more than 440 million households in 38 languages in 171 countries.

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Youth in Bahamas Win Chance to Learn from National Geographic Photographer During National Geographic Photo Camp

NASSAU, The Bahamas (Nov. 21, 2012)—A group of talented Bahamian youth have won the opportunity to learn about photography from the best in the business during National Geographic Photo Camp in Cape Eleuthera, the Bahamas. From Tuesday, Nov. 27, to Saturday, Dec. 1, 20 students will learn the basics of photography from National Geographic photographer Raul Touzon and National Geographic photo editor Todd James. Photo Camp is presented by the National Geographic Society, the Bahamas National Drug Council (BNDC) and the United States Embassy, Nassau.

During the workshop, Touzon, James and Photo Camp staff will mentor the students on the basics of photography, photographic vision, equipment and technique. They will lead them through the process of creating a story through photography and writing.

The youth who will participate were picked as finalists in the first “Youth Expression Against Drugs” Essay, Rap and Poetry Competition, held by the U.S. Embassy and the  BNDC. The contest encouraged students in the Bahamas to consider the harmful impact of illegal drugs, how to resist negative peer pressure and act as leaders against drugs in their community, and to express that through essays, poems and raps. The program is part of a continuing partnership between the U.S. Embassy and the  BNDC to reduce the demand for illegal drugs and foster the development of young leaders in the Bahamas.

Following the theme of the BNDC’s campaign, “Drugs and Crime Are a Waste of Time,” Photo Camp will discover, document and reflect on the natural beauty of the Bahamas and the importance of preserving the islands and their people.

The Photo Camp will take place at the Island School in Cape Eleuthera, a destination for high school students from around the world who spend a semester or summer with a community of teachers and learners seeking to transcend traditional education models. The campus and surrounding ocean serve as the school’s laboratories. Some school staff members are volunteering to assist with Photo Camp.

“We hope that Photo Camp will provide an opportunity for these young people to discover their home and environment in a new way while also fostering positive attitudes and leadership skills,” said Terry Garcia, National Geographic’s executive vice president for Mission Programs. “We’ve seen Photo Camp activities give new voice to youth, and supporting Photo Camp allows National Geographic to further its mission to inspire people to care about the planet.”

Participants, their families and community members are invited to a final presentation of the students’ work at the conclusion of the workshop at 7 p.m. at the Eleuthera Arts and Cultural Centre.

Olympus Imaging America Inc. has provided cameras for the Photo Camp.

National Geographic Photo Camp has provided programs for more than 1,000 young people in more than 60 locations since 2003. Photo Camp venues earlier this year were Baltimore, Md.; Pakistan; Qatar; and Haiti. Visit nationalgeographic.com/photocamp for more information.

The National Geographic Society is one of the world’s largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations. Founded in 1888 to “increase and diffuse geographic knowledge,” the Society works to inspire people to care about the planet. It reaches more than 400 million people worldwide each month through its official journal, National Geographic, and other magazines; National Geographic Channel; television documentaries; music; radio; films; books; DVDs; maps; exhibitions; live events; expeditions; interactive media; and merchandise. National Geographic has funded more than 10,000 scientific research, conservation and exploration projects and supports an education program promoting geographic literacy. For more information, visit www.nationalgeographic.com.

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Cesar Millan’s Short Guide to a Happy Dog: 98 Essential Tips and Techniques

Book Release Timed to Cesar’s New Nat Geo WILD Series

‘Cesar Millan’s Leader of the Pack,’ Premiering Saturday, Jan. 5, 2013

WASHINGTON (Nov. 26, 2012)—Not everyone can be a dog whisperer, but everyone can be the leader of their dog pack. Cesar Millan returns to television and bookstores in January with a new book, CESAR MILLAN’S SHORT GUIDE TO A HAPPY DOG: 98 Essential Tips and Techniques (National Geographic Books; ISBN 978-1-4262-1190-4; on sale Jan. 1, 2013; $21.95; hardcover), and a new Nat Geo WILD series, “Cesar Millan’s Leader of the Pack,” premiering Saturday, Jan. 5, at 10 p.m. ET/11 p.m. PT.

In CESAR MILLAN’S SHORT GUIDE TO A HAPPY DOG, Millan shows us how we can take charge and have a healthy, balanced dog. Moving beyond obedience-school basics, the book delves into important topics, such as picking the right dog for you, understanding the nature of your dog and identifying the causes of some of the most prevalent misbehaviors — and how to correct them. The chapter “Nine Simple Principles for a Balanced Dog” lays out core lessons based on Millan’s uncanny understanding of dog psychology. Drawing on his own struggles and life experiences, Millan shows how dogs are influenced by their owners’ stressors and joys.

CESAR MILLAN’S SHORT GUIDE TO A HAPPY DOG has advice on issues such as:

Putting an end to excessive barking;Introducing a new puppy to your home or another dog;Addressing separation anxiety;Establishing boundaries and the proper way to enforce them;Dealing with overexcitement through holistic methods such as smell;Re-establishing your place as pack leader to eliminate aggression.

The book is more than a training guide; it is also an intimate look into Millan’s own life. He discusses his journey to the United States and his early life here as an illegal immigrant; his child’s difficulties with ADHD; the death of his beloved pit bull, Daddy; his recent and unexpected divorce; and even his own depression and attempted suicide. While he and his family were dealing with these changes, he noticed the effect on his dog. Millan found that life changes dramatically impact dogs, and in this book he shares ways to manage those changes.

Easy to follow and packed with Millan’s remarkable insights into human and dog behavior, CESAR MILLAN’S SHORT GUIDE TO A HAPPY DOG is an inspiring tool to help people live a better life with a canine family member.

In each episode of “Cesar Millan’s Leader of the Pack,” premiering Jan. 5 on Nat Geo WILD, Millan combats the global issue of canine abandonment, giving “unadoptable” dogs a second chance and coaching families across Europe who are vying for the opportunity to adopt these lucky pups.

About the Author

Cesar Millan is a best-selling author, a much-in-demand public speaker, a branded pet care product designer/entrepreneur and, not least of all, international star of Nat Geo WILD’s “Cesar Millan’s Leader of the Pack” and the iconic TV series “Dog Whisperer with Cesar Millan.” In addition to “Cesar Millan’s Short Guide to a Happy Dog,” Millan has co-authored six books: the New York Times No. 1 best-seller “Cesar’s Way,” the New York Times best-seller “Be the Pack Leader,” “Dog Whisperer with Cesar Millan: The Ultimate Episode Guide,” “A Member of the Family,” “How to Raise the Perfect Dog” and “Cesar’s Rules.” He also has generated numerous instructional DVDs and CDs, and continues to host a popular series of seminars where attendees learn how to apply his extensive knowledge of dog psychology and rehabilitation techniques. In 2007, Cesar officially launched The Cesar Millan Foundation, a national nonprofit organization designed to aid and support the rescue, rehabilitation and placement of abused and abandoned dogs. For more information, visit www.cesarsway.com.

About National Geographic Books

National Geographic Books is a global publisher of 125 new books annually in Adult and

Children’s combined, as well as a publisher of digital content and services with more than 50 partners who translate our books.

The National Geographic Society is one of the world’s largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations. Founded in 1888 to “increase and diffuse geographic knowledge,” the Society’s mission is to inspire people to care about the planet. It reaches more than 400 million people worldwide each month through its official journal, National Geographic, and other magazines; National Geographic Channel; television documentaries; music; radio; films; books; DVDs; maps; school publishing programs; live events; interactive media; merchandise; and travel programs. For more information on National Geographic Books, visit facebook.com/NatGeoBooks and nationalgeographic.com/books.

About Nat Geo WILD

For more than 30 years, National Geographic has been the leader in wildlife programming.  The networks Nat Geo WILD and Nat Geo WILD HD, launched in 2010, offer intimate encounters with nature’s ferocious fighters and gentle creatures of land, sea and air that draw upon the cutting-edge work of the many explorers, filmmakers and scientists of the National Geographic Society. Part of the National Geographic Channels US, based in Washington, D.C., the networks are a joint venture between National Geographic and Fox Cable Networks.  In 2001, National Geographic Channel (NGC) debuted, and 10 years later, Spanish-language network Nat Geo Mundo was unveiled. The Channels have carriage with all of the nation’s major cable, telco and satellite television providers, with Nat Geo WILD currently available in 56 million U.S. homes. Globally, Nat Geo WILD is available in more than 100 million homes in 90 countries and 28 languages. For more information, visit www.natgeowild.com.

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National Geographic Store Offers Explorer-Inspired Holiday Items For Unique Gift Giving

WASHINGTON (Nov. 20, 2012)—Founded nearly 125 years ago, National Geographic is synonymous with exploration and discovery. For holiday 2012, the National Geographic Store (www.ngstore.com, 800-437-5221) offers a selection of gifts to appeal to the explorer in all of us.

The Store’s unique collection of beautiful, handmade clothing and home decorative items from around the world is supplemented by National Geographic’s award-winning DVDs, books, maps and more. Shoppers should also check the store regularly for limited-time-only sales, including on Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

These holiday gifts make a difference by supporting National Geographic’s ongoing mission of research, education, conservation and exploration. Follow @NGStore on Twitter for the latest deals and visit our blog to learn the stories behind our artisanal items: http://blog.store.nationalgeographic.com/.

The National Geographic Store’s top picks for 2012 include:

Genographic 2.0 Public Participation Kit

Join more than a half million people who have participated in our Genographic Project, with the new Geno 2.0 kit that uses powerful cutting-edge technology and advanced DNA analysis to provide the richest ancestry information available. Your participation is essential to further explore and document the history and pathways of the human journey. Shipping to U.S. addresses is free on Geno 2.0 kits.  $199.95

Complete National Geographic

Browse 123 years of National Geographic magazine — the articles, photographs and maps published exactly as they appeared in print. Now updated to include 2011 issues, the definitive collection of every issue of National Geographic magazine is digitally reproduced in high resolution. Use the visual interface to explore a topic, find photographs, browse the globe or wander on your own expedition.  $49.95

Personalized Framed “Your Year” NGM

Who doesn’t recall National Geographic magazine being part of their lives when growing up? Now you can commemorate an important year or a milestone event with a framed copy of the magazine. We have limited copies of most issues from 1913 through 2009, presented in a black or walnut frame with a unique accessible back panel that allows you to remove and page through the issue. The frame can be personalized with an engraved brass plaque with up to 22 letters.  $99.00

National Geographic Travel Clock

Small enough to pack in a pocket, this solid timepiece is a precision marvel of miniaturization built to travel. A cover etched with the National Geographic Society seal folds back to create a stand for the full-service, quartz-movement alarm clock that features easy-to-read luminescent hands and numbers and a mineral glass crystal face.   $34.95

National Geographic “My World” Personalized Map

Chart your past explorations, your travel destinations or the roots of your family tree with this personalized, earth-toned world map. National Geographic’s award-winning cartography is available as a map that is yours to customize. Specify up to 70 characters of your choice for the map title — The Wells Family Travels or The Hill-Brown Family’s Genealogy, for example. Also included are 100 map pins to mark locations that inspire memories and spark your imagination.  $159.00

125th Anniversary Book

From the top of Mount Everest to the bottom of the Mariana Trench, the National Geographic Society has been spreading the spirit of discovery and exploration around the world for 125 years. To celebrate this milestone anniversary, author and historian Mark Jenkins tells the rich history of the Society as never before in “National Geographic 125 Years: Legendary Photographs, Discoveries, and Adventures that Changed the World.”  $50.00

National Geographic Eaton Tripod Globe

This new globe features the latest National Geographic cartography in colors reminiscent of parchment globes from centuries past. More than 4,000 place-names give an accurate view of contemporary political boundaries. Raised relief helps distinguish topographic features around the world. The die-cast meridian and brass knobs add to the classic look.  $379.00

Circumnavigation of Iceland Trip

For the trip of a lifetime, gift a National Geographic Expedition. New for 2013 is a circumnavigation of Iceland with National Geographic photographer Chris Rainier to experience an enchanting land of geological extremes. Encounter vast volcanic landscapes, soak in hot springs and get up close to spectacular sculptures in ice.  $7,990 and up

Doomsday Preppers Season One DVD

Follow a group of people as they obsessively prepare for the apocalypse — each expecting the world to end in a different way, for a different reason, at a different time. From bunkers to fortified, off-the-grid homesteads, see how these Doomsday Preppers go to extremes to make sure they are ready for just about anything. The DVD includes every episode of season one of the hit TV show plus the bonus program “American Doomsday.”   $29.9

Nat Geo WILD Anteater Bug Vac

Have fun with an anteater vac that has an appetite for collecting all kinds of insects and bugs. With the touch of a button, you can quickly and safely gather up bugs to observe in the anteater’s removable belly chamber. The slide-out belly viewing area contains a flip-top magnifier to view bugs up close. After you’re done viewing the bugs, release them back into their habitats unharmed. Fun for ages 5 and up.   $27.00

The National Geographic Society is one of the world’s largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations. Founded in 1888 to “increase and diffuse geographic knowledge,” the Society’s mission is to inspire people to care about the planet. It reaches more than 400 million people worldwide each month through its official journal, National Geographic, and other magazines; National Geographic Channel; television documentaries; music; radio; films; books; DVDs; maps; exhibitions; live events; school publishing programs; interactive media; and merchandise. National Geographic has funded more than 10,000 scientific research, conservation and exploration projects and supports an education program promoting geographic literacy. For more information, visit www.nationalgeographic.com.

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National Geographic Announces 2012 Travelers of the Year

WASHINGTON (Nov. 26, 2012)—National Geographic Traveler magazine today announces its new Travelers of the Year initiative. The honorees for 2012 are boundary breakers, who explore the world with passion and purpose, inspiring others to expand their horizons, ask big questions and seek new answers. The Travelers of the Year are featured in the December 2012/January 2013 issue of National Geographic Traveler magazine and online at http://travel.nationalgeographic.com/travel/travelers-of-the-year/.

This year’s honorees include a high school librarian and a Maasai warrior who teamed up to bring the Serengeti to schoolchildren in Denver; a modern nomad who is documenting the oral histories of everyday Americans; a 29-year-old grad student who has established the Bread Houses Network in 12 countries, where people from all cultures and walks of life can bake bread together, share stories and form friendships; and a 15-year-old online travel host who scripts and stars in a video series that reveals the world through the eyes and experiences of young people.

The 2012 Travelers of the Year are:

Paula Busey and Samwel Melami Langidare Mollel, who teamed up to bring the Maasai culture to kids in Colorado;Heather Greenwood Davis; husband, Ishmael; and sons, Ethan, 10, and Cameron, 8, who chronicled their yearlong, round-the-world adventure on globetrottingmama.com;Diana Gross, a teacher whose globe-spanning goal is to digitally connect students and teachers by bringing technical education and video training to underserved communities;Theron Humphrey, who took a year to see America and record the story of one person on film and video every day;Mary Jean Jecklin and Kelley Rea, who, through their website PACforkids.com, help travelers to developing countries identify how, why, where and what to give to needy children living there;Booker Mitchell, a Manhattan high-schooler who brings off-the-rails adventures to a new generation;Robert Pennicott, who led the first-ever circumnavigation of Australia by rubber dinghy to raise funds for conservation and polio eradication;Amy Russell, who is walking the length of Africa to raise funds for clean water;Nadezhda Savova, who bakes up cross-cultural connections;Linda Yuen, an 85-year-old who travels the world, continually seeking new destinations and experiences.

“We sifted through hundreds of nominations to pick world-shaking people on innovative missions,” said George Stone, contributing editor of National Geographic Traveler. “Each of these dedicated voluntourists, green-minded adventurers and culture-embracing pilgrims reminds us that we have the power to reach beyond the bubble of our daily lives, learn from locals in far-flung places and make a difference both around the world and in our own neighborhoods.”

To learn more about each Traveler of the Year through photos and interviews, go to http://travel.nationalgeographic.com/travel/travelers-of-the-year/, or check out the December 2012/January 2013 issue of National Geographic Traveler magazine, on newsstands Tuesday, Dec. 4.

About National Geographic Traveler Magazine

National Geographic Traveler: Nobody Knows This World Better. National Geographic Traveler is the world’s most widely read travel magazine. Published eight times a year, Traveler is available by subscription, on newsstands in the United States and Canada and digitally for tablets like the iPad (on Zinio) and Nook (at BN.com). Its website (www.nationalgeographic.com/traveler) offers inspiring and authoritative digital content including trip ideas, photo galleries and blogs. It also houses travel apps, including 50 Places of a Lifetime that showcases the world’s greatest destinations handpicked by National Geographic’s family of globe-trotting contributors, and the award-winning National Parks app, filled with stunning pictures, maps and tips to explore America’s national parks.

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Southern India’s Caste System Predates Arrival of Indo-Europeans, Genographic Project Reveals

WASHINGTON (Nov. 28, 2012)—A study by the Genographic Project has given new insight into how demographic factors have shaped genetic diversity in Indian populations. Among the most surprising findings was that genetic differences between tribal and caste groups in Tamil Nadu seem to pre-date the arrival of the Indo-Europeans in the region by approximately 2,000 years.

Published today in the journal PLOS ONE, the study was led by principal investigator Ramasamy Pitchappan of the Genographic Project’s Indian Regional Center at Chettinad Academy of Research & Education in Chennai.

Contemporary Indian populations exhibit great cultural, morphological and linguistic diversity. The study sought to answer the contentious question of whether India’s contemporary genetic patterns are a result of long-term occupation, perhaps dating to just after humans left Africa about 60,000 years ago, or if they have been substantially impacted by more recent migration into the region.

“Our conclusions provide a new framework to better understand the relative impacts of demographic events and other cultural, social and economic factors that might have influenced modern genetic diversity in India,” Pitchappan, the senior author, said.

Indian populations can be broadly divided into “tribal” and “non-tribal.” Tribal groups constitute 8 percent of the Indian population and are characterized by traditional modes of subsistence such as hunting and gathering. In contrast, the majority of the non-tribal populations are classified as castes under the Hindu Varna (color caste) system, which groups the population based primarily on occupation. The system embodies strict marital rules preventing marriage among different castes.

The study applied a novel analytical strategy to unravel the population structure and genetic history of the southernmost state of India, Tamil Nadu, which is known for its rigid caste system. One of the aims of the study was to explore whether genetic differences observed among Tamil Nadu populations could be attributed to the establishment of the Hindu Varna system approximately 2,000 years ago by Indo-Europeans from northern India. The genetic data were also interpreted in reference to the paleoclimatic, archaeological and historical evidence from this region.

A total of 1,680 men from 12 tribal and 19 non-tribal (caste) Tamil Nadu populations were analyzed for markers on the paternally inherited Y-chromosome. Overall, the populations were characterized by Y-chromosome lineages (81 percent) that likely originated within India. The results suggest a minimal genetic influence in Tamil Nadu from the main western Eurasian migrations reported in the last 10,000 years, including the spread of agricultural populations from the Fertile Crescent during the Neolithic period. Although non-tribal groups exhibited a slightly higher proportion of non-Indian paternal lineages than tribal populations, the common paternal lineages shared among them are likely drawn from the same ancestral genetic pool that emerged in India during the late Pleistocene and early Holocene (10,000-30,000 years ago).

The genetic data also revealed that genetic differentiation among populations in Tamil Nadu began as early as 6,000 years ago, with no significant genetic admixture among them for at least the last 3,000 years. These results indicate a minimal genetic impact from the Indo-European migrations into the region over the past 2,000 years. These results are consistent with the earliest historical records of the region that document a highly structured society prior to the establishment of the Hindu Varna system. Rather, the timing of the Y-chromosomal differentiation among Tamil Nadu populations seems to fit better with the emergence of agricultural technology in South India and the resulting demographic shifts during the Neolithic period.

Genographic Project manager and one of the lead authors of the study David Soria-Hernanz explains that “the rigorous sampling and analytical approach used in the study allowed us to dissect the confounding relationships among multiple socio-cultural factors in Tamil Nadu, allowing us to further explore and test in detail the relationships between social structure and genetics.”

Project director and National Geographic Explorer-in-Residence Spencer Wells noted, “This study is a wonderful example of how human culture, and particularly the shift to an agricultural mode of subsistence during the Neolithic period, has had a profound impact on modern patterns of genetic diversity.”

Background: The Genographic Project seeks to chart new knowledge about the migratory history of the human species and answer age-old questions surrounding the genetic diversity of humanity. The project is a nonprofit, multi-year, global research initiative. At the core of the project is a global consortium following an ethical and scientific framework and responsible for sample collection and analysis in their respective regions. Members of the public can participate in the Genographic Project by purchasing a Genographic Participation Kit — Geno 2.0 — from the Genographic website (www.genographic.com), where they can also choose to donate their genetic results to the research effort. A portion of the proceeds of the kits help further research and support a Legacy Fund for indigenous and traditional peoples’ community-led language revitalization and cultural projects.

NOTES: To view the PLOS ONE article, visit: http://dx.plos.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0050269.

Images are available at http://press2.nationalgeographic.com/downloads/geno/.

Username: Press / Password: Press

Full press kit, including details on the Geno 2.0 kits, is available at https://genographic.nationalgeographic.com/press/.

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National Geographic’s ‘Digital Nomad’ Andrew Evans Embarks on Tanzanian Adventure

WASHINGTON (Nov. 19, 2012)—Andrew Evans, National Geographic Traveler magazine’s “Digital Nomad,” has embarked on an adventure to explore Tanzania. For the next four weeks, Evans will tweet, blog, vlog and “Instagram” on NationalGeographic.com’s Digital Nomad blog (http://digitalnomad.nationalgeographic.com/), his Twitter feed @WheresAndrew and his Where’s Andrew Facebook page.

“I can’t wait to explore the wild side of Tanzania, far off the beaten path, in the heart of the African wilderness,” said Evans “National Geographic’s very own history lies in the forests, plains and shores of Tanzania, and I am honored to be a part of this great legacy.”

With followers in tow, Evans plans to dive the Indian Ocean coral reefs of Zanzibar island; explore Tanzania’s largest national park, Ruaha; and visit the chimpanzees of Gombe Stream National Park, where Jane Goodall performed her groundbreaking research on primates for National Geographic. Also on the itinerary are the ancient markets of Zanzibar; a climb of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa; and a visit to Katavi, one of the least-accessible regions of Tanzania.

“Andrew continues to push the boundaries of travel and exploration with his latest trip to Tanzania,” said Keith Bellows, National Geographic Traveler magazine editor in chief. “National Geographic is approaching its 125th anniversary in January, and it’s exciting to see how far travel has come in that time. With the help of social media, people all across the world can follow Andrew from the coral reefs of Zanzibar to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro.”

Evans is a veteran travel writer for National Geographic Traveler magazine and National Geographic’s Intelligent Travel blog. His most recent assignments have taken him Around the World by Private Jet with National Geographic Expeditions and to Switzerland and Norway.

These trips came on the heels of a journey through South Africa and Malawi, where he was one of the first people to report the death of Malawian President Bingu wa Mutharika. In February he visited Maya sites in Mexico. Last year he explored the best of Ontario, Canada; tweeted and blogged around Japan; and wined and dined his way through Louisiana, experiencing the best of the bayou and New Orleans. He finished the year skiing, snow-shoeing and trekking through western Canada’s ski country with renowned mountaineers, ski instructors and naturalists.

In 2010 Evans journeyed from Washington, D.C., to Antarctica — a 10,000-mile trip through 14 countries — using public transportation as far as he could go. He rode buses to Ushuaia in Argentina, the southernmost city in the world, and then boarded the National Geographic Explorer to Antarctica.

About National Geographic Traveler Magazine

National Geographic Traveler: Nobody Knows This World Better. National Geographic Traveler is the world’s most widely read travel magazine. Published eight times a year, Traveler is available by subscription, on newsstands in the United States and Canada and digitally for tablets like the iPad (on Zinio) and Nook (at BN.com). Its website (www.nationalgeographic.com/traveler) offers inspiring and authoritative digital content including trip ideas, photo galleries and blogs. It also houses travel apps, including 50 Places of a Lifetime that showcases the world’s greatest destinations handpicked by National Geographic’s family of globe-trotting contributors, and the award-winning National Parks app, filled with stunning pictures, maps and tips to explore America’s national parks.

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TRUE LOVE: 24 Surprising Stories of Animal Affection

WASHINGTON (Nov. 30, 2012)—Forget Romeo and Juliet. This Valentine’s Day, celebrate love with National Geographic’s new book TRUE LOVE: 24 Surprising Stories of Animal Affection (National Geographic Books; ISBN 978-1-4262-1036-5; Jan. 2, 2013; $9.95 hardcover). Filled with heartwarming tales and adorable photographs, this book is the perfect gift for that special someone.

Author and National Geographic Kids magazine executive editor Rachel Buchholz has been collecting inspiring stories of love in the animal kingdom for the last decade. TRUE LOVE is the compilation of her 24 favorites, including the flamingo who sat on a stone in hopes it would hatch into a baby; the surprising bond between a gorilla and rabbit at Erie Zoo; and the lovesick dog who snuck out in the middle of the night to track down his lady love.

The stories are divided into different sections to showcase the full gamut of love and devotion throughout the animal world: Brothers & Sisters; Parents & Caregivers; Best Friends; and Real Romantics. In addition to touching tales such as the dolphin that jumped into his killer whale best friend’s tank for an overnight play date and the hen that acted as a surrogate mother to a litter of puppies, TRUE LOVE contains inspirational quotes on the importance of love, family and friendship from Bill Cosby, Aristotle, Robert Frost, Agatha Christie and more.

“As executive editor of National Geographic Kids magazine, I constantly read stories of amazing animal devotion,” Buchholz writes in the book’s introduction. “These tales are extremely popular, and it’s easy to see why: If animals can show kindness and love, surely humans can as well.”

An affordable and adorable gift this Valentine’s Day — or any day — TRUE LOVE is the perfect way to spread a little love to those you care about most.

About the Author

Rachel Buchholz is the executive editor of National Geographic Kids and National Geographic Little Kids magazines. In her nearly 20 years of editing for the tween market, she has learned that dogs love to skateboard, that ghosts live in the White House, and that if you’re in doubt, run a story about Harry Potter. Buchholz has helped National Geographic Kids’ 1.2 million readers set five Guinness World Records. She is the author of “How to Survive Anything: Shark Attack, Lightning, Embarrassing Parents, Pop Quizzes, and Other Perilous Situations.” Buchholz is a former editor at Boys’ Life magazine in Dallas.

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National Geographic Magazine Reporter Dan Stone Embarks on Environmental Road Trip Through California

WASHINGTON (Nov. 28, 2012)—Dan Stone, National Geographic magazine’s newest reporter, embarks today on an environmental road trip through California in search of new ideas, big thinkers and innovations that will power the planet’s future. For the next two weeks, Stone will tweet, blog and “Instagram” on NationalGeographic.com’s Change Reaction blog (NationalGeographic.com/changereaction) and his Twitter feed @NatGeoDan.

“California is a real hotbed of innovation and new ideas, some of which will change how we get around and others will affect what we eat,” said Stone. “I’m excited to get on the road to explore the best ones and to share them with my followers.”

Along the way, Stone plans to cover such concepts as the tiny house movement, car sharing and water-saving landscapes. He’ll take story suggestions from fans through his blog, his Twitter feed and the hashtag #CAroadtrip. The trip, sponsored by Volkswagen, will kick off at San Diego State University. Stone will drive a 2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid, which won’t be available to the public until next month.

“Our magazine has never done anything like this before,” said Margaret Zackowitz, a National Geographic senior editor. “We know Dan will find some great stories on the road, and thanks to social media, we can all go along for the ride.”

Stone covers energy and environmental science for National Geographic magazine. A former White House correspondent for Newsweek and The Daily Beast, he joined National Geographic to report on innovation and the people powering the future. His work has appeared in Scientific American, E (the environmental magazine) and on CBS’s “60 Minutes.” He lives in Washington, D.C., and, back in college, he spent two summers in California’s central valley as a sniffer and taster on the hunt for the perfect strawberry.

National Geographic magazine has a long tradition of combining on-the-ground reporting with award-winning photography to inform people about life on our planet. It has won 12 National Magazine Awards in the past five years: for Best Tablet Edition in 2012; Magazine of the Year and Single-Topic Issue in 2011; for General Excellence, Photojournalism and Essays, plus two Digital Media Awards for Best Photography and Best Community, in 2010; for Photojournalism in 2009; and for General Excellence, Photojournalism and Reporting in 2008. The magazine is the official journal of the National Geographic Society, one of the world’s largest nonprofit education and scientific organizations. Published in English and 36 local-language editions, the magazine has a global circulation of around 8 million. It is sent each month to National Geographic members and is available on newsstands for $5.99 a copy. Single copies can be ordered by calling (800) NGS-LINE, also the number to call for membership to the Society.

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