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Matthew C. Keegan's Articles Display Category|Title|Newest|Oldest Find a Good Family Law Attorney If you are in need of locating a good attorney, one who specializes in family law, then you need someone who can look after your interests as well as the interests of your children. I have listed five options to help you find the attorney who is right for you. 1. Check with Friends, Family – People you know can be an excellent resource to help you locate a family law attorney. Somebody you know probably has been through a similar experience; their advice and support can be useful to you. Fujifilm FinePix A303 Digital Camera Two years ago I purchased my first digital camera. At that time, prices for a 3.0 and higher mega pixel camera were around $350. Since then, as with all electronic gadgets, prices have dropped significantly while the mega pixels have gone up. I chose the Fujifilm's A303 digital camera, which has fared well for me, so permit me the opportunity to tell you why. I desperately needed a digital camera when my web business took off. On many different occasions I found myself wanting to take a picture of a person, place or thing and having to rely on a 35mm camera. Trouble was I wasn't very good at taking pictures. Usually my subject came out blurry or the picture needed cropping. Yes, getting pictures developed on disk would have resolved the latter problem, but it was the former problem -- blurry pictures -- that was causing me the most grief. If only I could see "on the spot" how my picture turned out. If it turned out poorly, I could reshoot. Naturally, a digital camera presented to me something that no 35mm camera could offer; I made the purchase of a 3.2 mega pixel camera by Fujifilm after considerable shopping around and reading product reviews online. Texas Instruments TI-83 Plus Calculator Calculators have shrunk in size and increased in price as consumers have sought out devices that do much more than simple arithmetic. Texas Instruments has their TI-83 Plus model which helps students with their Physics, Biology, Algebra, and Pre-Calculus classes. We'll examine why this model is so popular with today's classroom students. Back in the 1970s, the slide rule gave way to calculators in many classrooms across the nation. Texas Instruments led the way as almost every student owned one of their models. Today, Texas Instruments [or, TI] continues to produce calculators and their TI-83 Plus calculator leads the way. Toshiba Qosmio G15-av501 Notebook Computer Purchasing a notebook computer can be a mind boggling experience with all the different makes and models out there. Toshiba has a strong entry in their Toshiba Qosmio G15-AV501 notebook computer. Let's examine why this particular model is certain to be an effective competitor. Unlike most laptops the Qosmio takes computing to the next level. You can watch your favorite TV programs, play DVDs, or listen to music by way of its Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005 operating system. Sporting a 17" screen the Qosmio offers a nifty 1440 x 900 pixels resolution perfect for TV or video watching. Other key features of the Qosmio include: Toshiba Qosmio G15-av501 Notebook Computer Purchasing a notebook computer can be a mind boggling experience with all the different makes and models out there. Toshiba has a strong entry in their Toshiba Qosmio G15-AV501 notebook computer. Let's examine why this particular model is certain to be an effective competitor. Unlike most laptops the Qosmio takes computing to the next level. You can watch your favorite TV programs, play DVDs, or listen to music by way of its Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005 operating system. Sporting a 17" screen the Qosmio offers a nifty 1440 x 900 pixels resolution perfect for TV or video watching. Other key features of the Qosmio include: Kodak Cx7300 Digital Camera Quality digital cameras are becoming affordable for just about everyone these days. Kodak's entry into the low cost end of the market is their CX7300 3.2 mega pixel model. You just may be surprised at what a terrific value it is. Please read on. As recently as two years ago, if you were shopping for a 3.0 mega pixel or greater camera, you would have paid approximately $249. for one. Today, prices have tumbled and it isn't uncommon to find cameras in this category going for $150 or less. Recents sale prices I have observed have brought this price down further with one retailer selling the Kodak CX7300 for just under $100. Nokia 6255i Cell Phone Nokia continues to provide a high quality and much desired product in their cell phone offerings and their 6255i flip top model does not disappoint. If you want a cell phone that is lightweight, attractive, and comes with scads of features, then this baby is for you. Amongst flip phones, the Nokia 6255i is certain to be noticed by cell phone afficionados. No bare bones model, the 6255i comes loaded with the following standard features: Alpine Living Air Classic – Taking A Closer Look For more than a decade, Americans have been becoming increasingly aware that the air that they breathe in their homes is generally not of good quality. Between cooking and pet odors, mold, mildew, the widespread use of plastic materials, and carcinogenic cleaning products, many feel that their inside air has been compromised. What do consumers do? Purchase an air purifier. In 1998 I was given the gift of an Alpine Living Air Classic machine. It has been touted as an ideal solution for problem air. Let’s see if the product lives up to its billing. As far as air purifiers go, the Alpine Living Air Classic [now sold by EcoQuest International] is neither cheap nor does it look cheap. Weighing 19 pounds, the “Classic” is housed in a wooden cabinet available to consumers in four colors: dark walnut, light oak, putty, and black. It is a solid unit with a thick six foot electrical cord. Claiming coverage of up to 3,000 square feet most homes could operate with just one unit although a second one might be needed if your house is large, indoor air pollution is high, or you have high humidity. Prices currently start at $549 so it is no cheap investment. 3 Hot Selling Notebook Computers The laptop market is an overcrowded field with literally hundreds of offerings available to consumers. Some laptops are very basic models with Celeron processors while others are full blown multimedia powerhouses. Featured here are three top models from the “plain Jane” to the middle of the road, to the fully loaded. Dell Inspiron 1200 – It is possible to purchase a notebook computer for considerably less than $1000 and Dell offers several models below this threshold including the Inspiron 1200. This particular model is the price leader amongst laptops especially when rebates are figured in. A recent Dell advertisement has been touting the Inspiron 1200 for just $499 after a $150For rebate is received. What do you get with this model? Not a whole lot: an Intel Celeron M Processor 350 (1.30 GHz/1MB Cache/400MHz FSB); Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition; 30GB Ultra ATA Hard Drive; and 24X CD Burner/DVD Combo Drive. Surprisingly, Dell does include wireless capabilities in the form of a networking card. Dell Inspiron 600m Notebook Computer After twelve years of owning desktop computers, I finally opted for a laptop so I would no longer be chained to my desk. After months of research and weighing various makes and models, I settled on the Dell Inspiron 600m Notebook Computer. This particular model has exceeded all of my expectations and at a price that is hundreds of dollars lower than many competing brands. For several months I agonized over my next computer purchase. I knew I needed to be more mobile and only a notebook computer would permit me to take my "show on the road." Still, the decision making process was not easy as the number of different makes and models out there is mind boggling. Ultimately, I settled on a Dell in part because of previous good experience with the company as well as affordability of their product line. The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe It has taken me decades – literally – to finally pick up another C.S. Lewis book and read it. In high school I read Lewis’ book, “That Hideous Strength” and completely missed Lewis’ message. One decade later I read Lewis’ “Mere Christianity” and fully understood what Lewis was saying. With The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, part of C.S. Lewis’ Chronicles of Narnia series, the gospel message is clearly made evident in an allegorical/mystical style. Lewis used the Narnia series to explain Christ’s love for humankind to children, who are the series’ principal readers. This first novel in a series of seven books is currently a major motion picture now completing a successful run on theatre screens across the U.S. I have yet to see the movie, a Disney production, but I understand that it holds very true to Lewis’ storyline. I expect to see the movie before it leaves theatres later this month; it will become available on DVD this April. Condi: The Condoleeza Rice Story I had the satisfaction the other day of having finished a book. Yes, you would think that those of us who write for a living would be great readers. Some of us are, some of us aren’t. I probably am fairly well read overall, but that covers magazines, newspapers, articles, and the like for the most part…especially if they can be found online! My wife picked up a book for me this past Christmas and she hit it right on the mark — Condi: The Condoleeza Rice Story. Written by Antonia Felix, the book traces the remarkable life of now Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice from her days living in highly segregated Birmingham, Alabama during the 1950s and 1960s through her years as an academic scholar, college professor, and university provost, all the way up to her present work with the Bush Administration. Written in 2003, the book still has Condi as National Security Advisor to the president, but in 2004 Condi replaced Colin Powell as the Secretary of State. Grier's Almanac: 200 Years Of Service One of my favorite "reads" are almanacs. From the formerly named Information Please almanac to the Old Farmer's Almanac, these handy paperback books contain a wealth of information on virtually any subject, particularly the more generalized tomes such as Information Please. In November 2005, I visited my locally owned drugstore and found that they had free copies of Grier's Almanac available for customers. Similar in design to the Old Farmer's Almanac, I took a copy home with me. Life Lines Joyce Meyers has been inspiring Christians for decades with the pearls of inspirational wisdom which she has faithfully shared via her radio program and books. Now, her husband Dave shares a powerful devotional crafted from a strong, personal walk with the Lord. Let's take a look at the book that will certainly capture the attention of those drawn to Christian devotionals. Dave Meyers is one of those rare men who works quietly in the shadow of their wife's ministry. Joyce Meyers, who has been inspiring and motivating Christians for decades is a strong inspirational and motivational speaker in her own right. Still, Joyce credits the quiet, strong leadership of her husband in keeping her ministry on track as well as debt free. In reading Life Lines you will fully appreciate the saying, "still waters run deep" and quickly understand that Dave's relationship with his Savior is a strong one. Your Flight Questions Answered Whether you are an experienced air traveler or a novice, John Cronin's book, "Your Flight Questions Answered," has a little bit of something for everyone. Written more as a reference guide, Cronin's book covers the many questions the flying public can have before, during, and after flight. Cronin divides his book into seven sections each containing several questions with detailed answers: flight cancellations and delays, baggage handling, weather, air traffic control, airports, airliners, and pilots. His questions are written in basic form, much like the questions a concerned passenger would ask who is unfamiliar with flying. For example, one question he covers: what are those tiny pieces of metal sticking straight up from the wing? He details his answer with the explanation that they are vortex generators, which create a vortex that prevents air from separating from the wing or other surface area on an aircraft. Cronin breaks down his explanations further with additional details and often includes a supporting picture or graph to visually stress the answer. Land Rover's Resilient, But Absent Defender Tracing its routes back to postwar Britain, Land Rover has been one of the most recognized names on the Australian outback, the African savannah, and in many other far flung places around the world. Since 1948, Land Rover has rivaled Jeep and Toyota in providing the most versatile 4x4 vehicles on the planet. Today, the Defender model continues to trudge on with important updates scheduled for the 2007 model year. Please read on to capture the essence of a brand that has admirably served driver and passenger for nearly six full decades. Straight from the rubble of the Second World War, Britain was in need of a vehicle that could serve farmers, the military, government officials, and the like. Particularly in the hilly midlands of central England, not just any car would do in a bid to carry doctors, veterinarians, and military personnel on their rounds. If a road became impassable, no motorcar could be trusted to do the job. Enter Land Rover. Dodge SRT8 Charger: Not Just Another Family Sedan When the smart folks at DaimlerChrysler were looking to beef up the Dodge line, they had to look no further than the Chrysler 300C, the Mercedes derived sedan that was turning heads from the moment it was introduced. What surprised many Mopar fans was that the vaunted Charger name would be affixed not to a coupe, but to a sedan. To this day, purists grumble at that decision but one look at the Charger tells you that this is not some ordinary family sedan. Thanks to the original Chrysler Group design team the Charger received plenty of notice, even better with the later involvement of the SRT group, Dodge has turned everything up a notch yet again. Street and Racing Technology {SRT} is the name of the performance group within Chrysler that is tasked with taking already potent vehicles and turning them into class leading, road dominating muscle cars. In its earlier day the team transformed the Dodge Neon and most recently this same team did its work on the Jeep Grand Cherokee SUV. When the 2006 Charger was given its opportunity to shine, the SRT team immediately decided to plant a 6.1L V8 Hemi-powered engine underneath the car’s hood producing an amazing 425 horses along with 420 lbs-feet of torque peaking at 4800 rpm. Clearly, no car in its class matches the Charger’s competence with the exception of the 300C. Tricking Out Your Dodge Ram Srt-10 There are pick up trucks on the road and then there is the Dodge Ram SRT-10. Take one already powerful truck and add in a Viper engine and you come away with a vehicle that is truly the king of its class. DaimlerChrysler got it right when they decided to morph its popular Ram into a true road warrior able to haul people, stuff, and beat just about any car on the road. If you own a Ram SRT-10 you already know what I mean as you spend your time tricking out your truck for even more performance and enhanced looks. Before we go on, please note that there are two versions of the Ram SRT-10: one is the “standard” two door cab and the other is the quad cab. For argument’s sake, we’ll look at both Ram SRT-10 models as one. Without exception the 510 horsepower 8.3L V10 is one powerful engine. For the faint of heart, the Ram SRT-10 just isn’t for you, but for the Dodge aficionado this steroid enhanced Ram more than meets your every fantasy. Or does it? The Toyota Fj Cruiser: Breaking The Styling Mold Toyota’s growing popularity hasn’t been without controversy. No, the automaker doesn’t have much of a quality issue to contend with and, no Toyota isn’t likely to begin losing market share anytime soon. Yet, there is one area where the Japanese automaker has a bit of a perception problem and that has to do with styling. Of course Toyota vehicles aren’t ugly but there are few models being built today that are truly exciting. All that is now beginning to change as Toyota releases several head turning models including the latest rendition of its popular Camry sedan and one of its newest models, the FJ Cruiser. Keep reading and we’ll take a glance at just how Toyota is breaking one mold by breaking new ground. Maybe it was the success of the Nissan Xterra or perhaps it was the desire to recapture past glory [or something in between] but Toyota’s decision to build the FJ Cruiser may not have been an easy one. With a line up filled with various trucks and SUVs, the proposed FJ Cruiser would not only be competing against the Jeeps and Land Rovers of the world, but with some of its own models including the car based Highlander and the versatile, truck based 4Runner. Still, the model was thought to stand a chance for two reasons: the FJ Cruiser is a retro-styled vehicle taking its design cues from the FJ40 of the 1960s/1970s and for its 5 passenger seating capacity: just the right sized vehicle that consumers would want to take off roading. The Highly Refined And Capable Bmw X5 Sav The Highly Refined And Capable Bmw X5 Sav Sport utility vehicle sales continue to plummet in the face of surging gasoline prices now topping the three dollar per gallon mark. Indeed, this segment of the vehicle market has produced some of the largest profits for automakers globally and this loss of sales is impacting manufacturer bottom lines the world over. Yet, demand hasn’t dried up altogether and a rebound is possible once gas prices stabilize. For BMW owners, a larger vehicle such as the BMW X5 SAV is almost a necessity no matter what gas prices may be. Yes, the BMW X5 SAV is big topping out at just over 5,000 lbs. Are you in the market for a luxury sport utility vehicle? If so, BMW’s largest model may just have something to offer to you. For the record, BMW calls their SUVs an SAV: a sport activity vehicle. BMW’s marketing arm felt that customers should know that beyond it’s off road prowess, the BMW X5 SAV can tow as much as 6,000 pounds; carry bicycles with an optional bike rack; hold a canoe on top of its roof; and stow camping or other activity gear in its generous sized rear quarter. 2007 Chevy Tahoe: Selling Like Gangbusters The jury is in regarding the recently released big SUVs from General Motors: they are an overwhelming success story. The Chevy Tahoe along with its GMC Yukon and Cadillac Escalade siblings are bringing in big gains for GM. Just in time too as the automaker pares excess capacity, closes plants, and lays off tens of thousands of workers. So, what is it about the Tahoe that is stimulating sales? Everything! Just what is it about the new Tahoe that is bringing in the customers? With sales up nearly 50% over the previous year’s model there has to be something that sets the big SUV apart from its predecessor. In fact, everything has changed with the Tahoe as it is an all new model: 2007 Hyundai Entourage: The Minivan Wars Heat Up It was only a matter of time before they entered the minivan fray and after several false starts the on again and off again Hyundai minivan appears to be on once again. Hyundai is targeting a market it has long sidestepped and it appears that a long wheelbase version of the Kia Sedona will soon be sold in the US as a Hyundai Entourage. The minivan wars are heating up again even as one competitor exits the market and another also gives serious consideration to abandoning the minivan segment. Is there an Entourage in your future? Read on for all the details and then decide. Two decades ago, Hyundai entered the North American market with its $3600 Excel Pony. This cheaply priced, cheaply built model set the tone for the new importer and it wasn’t a good one at that. Low quality went arm and arm with the low price, but consumers still bought Hyundais anyway as a new Excel compared favorably with prices for late model used cars of that era. Many owners shrugged off the cheap plastics and quality problems, citing that the Pony gave them something they never had before: a brand new car. Ford To Exit The Minivan Market? All the car blogs lately have been speculating on the direction that the Ford Motor Company is going to take in the wake of declining sales and stiff competition. We know that Ford has too much capacity and we know that the company will be closing some key plants and laying off an as yet to be determined number of employees. What hadn’t been clear is which models would be cut from the line up. Now, it appears that Ford will exit the lucrative minivan market. That’s right, Ford apparently will stick with building cars, trucks, and SUVs, and leave the minivan market to the other players. Ever since the Chrysler Corporation invented the minivan market back in the early 1980s with its line of “K-car” derived minivans – the Dodge Caravan, Plymouth Voyager, and the Chrysler Town & Country – Ford has been playing catch up. Indeed, a series of forgettable “star” named minivans were served up by Ford and summarily rejected by consumers: the Aerostar, Windstar, and the Freestar. Later, both Honda and Toyota brought out their own entries and Ford, along with Chevrolet found themselves trailing badly in an overcrowded segment. Indeed, several GM divisions sell minivans, as does Kia and Nissan, making the market especially tight. 2009 Buick Enclave: From Concept To Reality General Motors has been taking a beating for over a year now due to sales dips, make/model image problems, and labor and legacy issues. Truly, if there was a better time to jumpstart the company, I don’t know what it would be. Fortunately, someone in GM’s walnut-trimmed boardroom is getting the message: build what we want and we will buy it. The Buick Enclave, a luxury SUV making the rounds of the U.S. auto shows, appears to be one such winner. I realize that I am in the minority of car critics, but I think that Buick is on the right track. The Lucerne, a full sized car based on the Cadillac DTS, is a beauty and Buick’s next newest model, the mid sized Lacrosse, is another attractive looking car. Still, Buick’s remaining fleet has been scaled back with only two SUVs and one crossover vehicle, the Terraza, left. At times it isn’t clear what plans GM has for its “near luxury” division, but if the Enclave is one example, then Buick has a promising future. Gmc To Launch All New Pick Ups Early Published reports are indicating that General Motors will move up the production of their updated line of GMC and Chevrolet pick up trucks by three months with the new models making their debut in October 2006. Some are calling this move an act of desperation on the part of GM which has been socked by extensive criticism over its product line, while others are hailing it as a bold, strategic initiative. Regardless, this is an unusual move for the world’s number one automaker, one that could help the company get back on its feet. Let’s take a look at the new trucks and what they will offer to you, the consumer. High gas prices, quality problems, and a perception that the company offers products that no one wants has been plaguing General Motors for much of the past year. With plant closures coming, layoffs pending, and market share decreasing, little good news has been focused on “the general” by the automobile press. Fortunately, GM is battling back with fresh models set to be released including SUVs and trucks, which are the “bread and butter” vehicles of the company. Here is what you can expect to see when the new trucks enter the market in Autumn 2006: Selecting Your Tonneau Truck Cover You’ve seen them on pick up trucks everywhere: specially designed truck covers that are all the rage. In times past sporting a custom fitted cap over your truck’s bed was where it was the thing to do. Today, a truck tonneau cover is the way to go for many truck owners. The choices of covers are varied, the retailers who sell them are many. Selecting your tonneau truck cover isn’t rocket science but it pays to “go with what you know” when selecting yours. Let’s take a look at the different types of truck tonneau covers on the market. The most popular selling trucks in the USA for nearly three straight decades are Ford’s “F” series line of full size pick up trucks. Selling twice as many trucks as the nearest car, which is the Toyota Camry, this sales level clearly shows us that pick up trucks remain an important and vital part of the automotive landscape. Indeed, trucks from Ford, Chevrolet, GMC, Dodge, Toyota, Honda, Nissan, and many other manufacturers have filled our roads. Unlike trucks in the past which exclusively emphasized their towing and hauling attributes, trucks of today incorporate a third factor, passenger comfort, in the mix. Still, if you ask mostly anyone exactly what they do with their truck bed you are likely to gain a variety of answers. Most truck beds are used expressly for hauling stuff and depending on what is being hauled that typically determines how the bed is protected and or covered. Chevy Equinox And Land Rover Freelander The sport utility market continues to expand despite higher than normal gas prices. The reason? Because, these do-almost-everything-vehicles provide just what consumers want. Sure, sales are down right now, but they will recover as more economical vehicles enter the mix. SUVs carry people, haul stuff, pull stuff, can go off-roading [okay, maybe not the Equinox], provide superior handling than many cars, etc. Fortunately, not all are gas guzzlers either. Chevrolet’s Equinox and the Land Rover Freelander are two that come to mind. Let’s take a look at these two compact SUVs. Chevrolet Equinox – I like the looks of the Equinox, Chevy’s car-based SUV that is only slightly smaller than the mid-size TrailBlazer. By car-based I mean a vehicle that handles and drives more like a car and is actually built on a car platform [like the Ford Escape and Toyota RAV4, for example]. This means that the Equinox is built chiefly for the road, so if you want an off road experience you would need to opt for the TrailBlazer or get the Freelander. Okay, I digress. How To Install Truck Running Boards If you are a pick up truck or SUV owner, one of the most popular accessories for these types of vehicles are running boards. Running boards are particularly useful as they allow easier access to your truck’s cabin in addition to simply “lookin’ good”. You can outfit your vehicle yourself with running boards by following three simple steps. Depending on the brand of running board you purchase, the procedures involved may vary somewhat. Lund running boards are industry hot sellers and the company helps make installation a breeze by outlining how to get the job done: Exhaust Systems For The Hobbyist There are exhaust systems and then there are exhaust systems. Your vehicle’s exhaust system does everything that it needs to do to keep your car performing properly as well as to protect the environment safe from harmful pollutants. When it is working properly, that is. Not every owner is satisfied with stock exhaust systems, particularly the hobbyist or recreationalist who uses his or her vehicle for leisurely pursuits. If you are a hobbyist and you want a system that performs well beyond what a stock exhaust system has to offer, then please read on for some important information. So, what is your sound preference? Say, what?! Yes, one of the attributes of a high quality performance exhaust system is finding one that brings out the sound that you want it to make. Generally, there are three types of exhaust systems sounds you can choose from. Gibson Exhaust, a popular manufacturer of performance exhaust systems breaks it down as follows: Truck Covers For A Snug Fit Much like car covers, a high quality custom fitted truck cover can protect your pick up truck from a whole cluster of nasty insults to your truck’s body. Even if you park your truck in a garage and give it regular washes and polishes, your finish can soon diminish and your truck quickly show its age without the added benefit of using a truck cover. Let’s take a look at some of the advantages of owning a truck cover and what you need to look for when considering purchasing a high quality product. When you choose your truck cover, you will soon discover that even just one manufacturer can make several assorted covers for the same truck model. Simple covers offer partial protection from the elements while first-rate truck covers offer far-reaching protection. 2007 Gmc Yukon: Still Too Much? I realize I may be stepping on some toes, but please hear me out. The upcoming, new from the ground up, GMC Yukon is certain to be perceived by some as being too much…in size, that is. With fuel prices at an all time high and consumer sentiment shifting to smaller vehicles will the GMC Yukon be considered outdated even before it hits showroom floors in Spring 2006? Let’s take a look at many of the changes planned for the all new Yukon and then you can decide for yourself. General Motors has been itching to release the Yukon and a host of other full sized GMC/Chevrolet models to the public as soon as possible. Some find this odd, particularly since fuel prices are high and demand for large vehicles is on the decline. Still, there is good reason why GM wants you to take a closer look at upcoming offerings including the 2007 GMC Yukon, their big SUV: 2006 Jeep Commander: 7 Passenger Trail Trekker Jeep has finally done it. A 7 passenger trail rated Jeep is now available at a dealer near you. Long a maker of manly SUVs, the Commander holds true to form as it can easily be taken off road as well as down the highway. Unlike more pedestrian models, the Commander looks every bit the rugged vehicle that it is. For Jeep fans who need the extra room the Commander offers space not available in any Jeep since the Wagoneer was retired a generation ago. Let’s take a look at the 2006 Jeep Commander, the focus of this review. So, why build a seven passenger Jeep? To give customers a choice, that’s why. With existing models able to carry only five passengers or less, the Commander meets the demand for a larger model. Instead of losing sales to GM or Ford, Jeep is now able to offer a vehicle that will keep customers from leaving for bigger and roomier models. 2006 Acura Mdx: Luxury With A View You have to love the marketing guys. After all of the work of the design team, a new vehicle must pass through several rigorous channels including engineering, safety, performance, quality, durability, craftsmanship, government inspections, and management clearance, before even the first rivet is drilled or body panel painted. After all is said and done, the marketers get their chance to pitch the final product. In one word the MDX has been defined by these very same marketers: benchmark. Does the MDX live up to this all important designation? Acura would like for you to think so. Let’s take a look at Acura’s 7 passenger luxury SUV to see if it truly does rise to the level of category leader. The marketplace is flooded with SUVs. Despite high gas prices, the demand for high profile vehicles continues to remain strong, particularly in the sub-behemoth category which is anything smaller than an Expedition or a Tahoe. Still, some of these less imposing models are fuel eaters too, equipped with V8 engines and all the latest gadgetry. If you want to realize fuel savings in an SUV a compact Ford Escape Hybrid is just about your only choice, plus a new Lexus model just now hitting showrooms. 2006 Subaru B9 Tribeca: Ugly Or Not? Okay, Subaru fans…listen up! Do you think that the all new B9 Tribeca is a beautiful vehicle or is it an ugly duckling? As for me, I have mixed feelings. This particular SUV certainly doesn’t look like any other Subaru, nor does it easily get confused with any other SUV on the market. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder; let’s take a look at what sets the B9 Tribeca apart from the pack. The first time I saw Subaru’s new entry up close I first thought it was Porsche’s Cayenne. No, the vehicles don’t look alike, but the B9 Tribeca evoked a similar response for me: like the Cayenne, it represents a major departure from all other models. For example, the B9 Tribeca offers the following: 2006 Honda Element: Unique Freak? I admit it. When I saw my first Honda Element a few years back I thought it was one of the most hideous looking vehicles on the planet. Then I saw the Scion xA and Scion xB, so I quickly relegated the Element to third place. I confess that my earlier feelings about the Element have changed, possibly because I see so many of them on the road these days and perhaps because I see its usefulness. No matter, the Honda Element is a unique looking vehicle and it is a lot less freakish than what you or I may think. Freedom from convention. That is the saying on Honda’s web site when it comes to labeling the Element. In many ways, this marketing slogan is true. Who says that any vehicle has to conform to what you expect? True, past radical models failed miserably. The Ford Edsel and VW Thing are two that come to mind. Yet, the times are different and a truly “rad” look is in. Real in, if you know what I mean. France’s Troubles: Learning from US I know that there are some people who are celebrating France’s recent troubles with delicious glee. I guess I can understand how they feel, given France’s ongoing hypocrisy concerning the Iraq War [hmmm…whose hand is in that oil-for-food cookie jar?] and the all too common and world renowned snooty attitude displayed by many Francophiles toward outsiders. Time for you to eat some humble pie, France. Your troubles are upon you but they can be resolved. Guess what? You have to look at America’s example for your solution. I am not smiling…okay, maybe just a bit. So, there you have it. France is in a pickle and they aren’t quite sure why. I have three Latin words for the French to consider: Muhammad Cartoon & Free Speech Many in the Muslim community are in an uproar over a Muhammad cartoon appearing in newspapers across Europe. One such Muhammad cartoon depicts the Islamic prophet wearing a turban containing a bomb. If you write for a living, you probably have made judgment calls regarding what you will write and how that information will be conveyed. Definitely, I am of the “free speech” mind, but I must tell you that there are enough fanatics in this world who would seek the death of others in the name of their beliefs. While I enjoy covering information of a religious nature I am loathe to printing or republishing anything that offends someone’s religion, no matter how much I may disagree with it. Traveling Abroad: Heeding U.S. Travel Warnings Traveling abroad presents certain risks for Americans, especially in light of the recent bombings in London, England. For the most part, terrorists are the problem, although drug, gang, and criminal activities can also be a factor. In addition, local health conditions can be a separate problem. Thankfully, the U.S. State Department regularly issues and updates Consular Information Sheets for every country in the world. These sheets give valuable information to travelers, information you must know before you take your next trip. As mentioned, the Consular Information Sheets provide important information for travelers. You can also check the State Department's Current Travel Warning list to see which nations the U.S. government encourages Americans to avoid altogether. Currently, the following countries are listed: Assorted Tips For Business Travelers Our web community of business flight attendants is always thinking of ways to make traveling easier. You have to when your job takes you away from home base for several weeks at a time! The following tips are for business as well as leisure travelers. 1. Ring Around the Collar Dirty neck rings around shirt or blouse collars can be removed by putting shampoo on them. Rub the shampoo in as if you were washing your hair. Shampoo is specifically made to remove body oils the "ingredient" of neck rings. Old Barney -- A Visit to Barnegat Light, New Jersey Barnegat Light, NJ is the home to "Old Barney" a historic lighthouse located at the northern tip of Long Beach Island. Long Beach Island, or "LBI" as the vacationing folks like to say, is a narrow island nearly twenty miles long and six miles at sea off the coast of Ocean County, NJ. The lighthouse is a destination in and of itself, if lighthouses are something that you like. Like all lighthouses, this one has distinctive markings: the top half is red and the bottom half is white. Built in 1859, the current lighthouse is the second one for that site. The original, constructed in 1824, was in disrepair and sorely in need of being replaced. Thus, the present lighthouse -- fondly called Old Barney -- was constructed. Teterboro, New Jersey: A General Aviation Town Tiny Teterboro, New Jersey is situated just south of Hackensack at the edge of the Meadowlands only twelve miles from midtown Manhattan. This Bergen County borough is mostly known for its airport, as the residential properties in the town are few. Indeed, recent census figures put the town’s population at just 18 souls! Meanwhile, business dominates the town and the airport, named for the town, is the chief job generator in the town as well as in surrounding communities. At just over one square mile, Teterboro certainly is easily missed. Bordered by state highways 46 to the north and 17 to the west, the town would certainly be overlooked unless you failed to notice the regular flow of general aviation traffic entering and leaving the airport. Indeed, Teterboro Airport {TEB} ranks as one of the busiest general aviation airports in the country serving Piper and Cessna owners all the way up to Gulfstream V charter operators. Nc Railroad Museum Enthralls Kids Young & Old Alike Situated in the heart of central North Carolina along the border of Wake and Chatham counties, just thirty minutes south of Raleigh, is the North Carolina Railroad Museum / New Hope Valley Railway. Featuring steam and diesel locomotives as well as various boxcars, flatcars, and the like, the museum / railway has been entertaining train fans at its rural Bonsal location since 1981. Take a trip down the old railroad line with me and experience a little bit of American train history! Since I was a boy I have been enamored by trains -- steam engines, diesels, bullet trains and even subways. My family feels the same way; we marvel at the sight of a steam locomotive hissing and wheezing its way clackety-clack down the tracks, imagining that we, too, are taking a trip across this great nation of our's. New Bern, Nc: History At Its Finest When traveling through the South, certain destinations such as Charleston and Savannah have strong appeal to many as they are rich in history and warmth. In North Carolina, New Bern has a similar appeal and it is just now being "discovered" by visitors as a terrific destination in itself. See why this birthplace of North Carolina holds such a strong interest for visitors. In 1710, New Bern was settled by German and Swiss adventurers from Bern, Switzerland. During colonial times, the city acted as the first capitol for the North Carolina colony. Thus, much of what is of strong historical significance for the city can be found within three districts dotting New Bern. Indeed, over 150 sites are listed with the National Register of Historic Places including many homes, stores, and churches. North Carolina's Outer Banks Jutting into the Atlantic Ocean, North Carolina's Outer Banks offer visitors plenty of sand, history, and recreational activities. This 100 mile long group of islands welcomed the first European settlers, witnessed mankind's first winged flight, and is often the first place that hurricanes visit as they run up the east coast of the United States. Read on to see what makes the Outer Banks the first rate resort that it is. As barrier islands, the Outer Banks are exposed to the whims of the Atlantic Ocean. Sand is pulled out and tossed away while the islands make a gradual westward move of approximately one to two feet per year. Indeed, many of the shipwrecks that took place several hundred years ago right off shore would be as much as a mile further out into the Atlantic today if they happened in the same spot. Pennsylvania Dutch Country Traveling to Pennsylania Dutch Country in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, is somewhat like taking a trip back in time. Long inhabited by the Amish who are actually Germans, the area is checkered by family farms where the men still work with horse and plow, the women bake everything from scratch, and families get around by horse drawn carriage. While there, you can purchase homemade goods including jellies and jams; blankets and pillows; wood carvings; handmade furniture; outdoor items including birdhouses; and so much more. Try the fudge... YUM! Sit down for a traditional Amish meal served family style. You will share a long table with complete strangers while being waited upon by pretty maidens. Savor the tender meats, homemade noodles, gravy laden mashed potatoes, and breads and pies that will be part of your dining experience. Nj Towns: What's In A Name? When you think of "Paramus" do you automatically think, "shopping malls?" If you do, you are not alone. On a recent trip to the west coast, I was asked, "where in New Jersey do you live?" When I mentioned near Paramus, the person nodded her head in recognition. She knew that the town was a shopping mecca on the east coast. Paramus' origins and even recent history, belie the shopping mecca label. As recently as the 1960s, the borough was dotted with farmland; indeed Paramus is derived from the Lenni Lenape name Perampsus, meaning: "where there is worthwhile or fertile land." Where there was fertile land, maize or corn was grown and wild turkeys were also found in abundance. Thus, the meaning of Paramus . . . "A fertile land where corn was grown attracting wild turkeys". For kicks, go to the Paramus Park Mall and observe the Indian riding the turkey [Route 17 entrance near Macy's]. It looks odd to the visitor, but with your new knowledge of Paramus' name origin, it explains much. Paramus, New Jersey: Retailing Paradise! Situated in the heart of Bergen County, New Jersey at the crossroads of state highways 4 and 17 is the town of Paramus, home to some 30,000 residents, but also home to one of the largest retail meccas in the world. Let’s take a look at Paramus and what has made this town such a popular destination for shoppers. Convenience – Nearly one million people live in Bergen County, but draw a 75 mile radius with Paramus at the center of it and the figure mushrooms to over 20 million people! Yes, all of northern and central New Jersey, New York City, southern New York State and parts of Long Island and Connecticut fall within this circle. That makes for a lot of potential shoppers in such a compact area. Go To Guatemala! Does Mayan culture pique your interest? Do you want to see a live volcano? Does visiting a place called the Land of Eternal Spring interest you? If so, go to Guatemala! Nestled in Central America, Guatemala is a land with an ancient history and an intriguing present. Long ruled by the Mayans, this people group suddenly died off well before the Spaniards conquered the land. Still, you see the "Mayan look" in the faces of many of the people. Haledon, New Jersey: A Renaissance In The Making? Not every small town in America can live up to a realtor’s dream of providing top notch schools, new housing, well kept streets, and abundant recreational opportunities. Where Haledon, New Jersey currently lacks in refinement, it offsets some of this with its sense of history as well as opportunity. Read on to find out more about this small Passaic County borough. On the western border of the city of Paterson in northern New Jersey lies a gritty town, Haledon, home to more than 8400 residents compacted into an aging one square mile borough. As a working class community, the town has long served as a bedroom community for blue collar workers who skillfully manned the textile mills that dotted the town and surrounding communities for well over a century. Hackensack, New Jersey: 300 Years Of Modern History The county seat for Bergen County, New Jersey is the small, bustling city of Hackensack. Nearly 43,000 people call the 4.6 square mile city their home and, in addition to being a seat of government, it is also an important retailing and business center. The region of New Jersey that Hackensack occupies today was long the home of the Lenni Lenape native peoples. The Achkinheshcky or Hackensack tribe populated the area and coexisted peacefully with Dutch settlers who arrived in 1639 and established a trading post there. By 1688, the area came under the control of the British who established the town of New Barbadoes. At one point during the Revolutionary War, General Washington had his headquarters in Hackensack and the region was at times the epicenter between battling British and American forces. The name Hackensack meaning -- mouth of water -- was not officially chartered until 1921. Will Delta Sell AirElite? Not many people outside of the airline industry know this, but Delta Airline owns and operates a lucrative division of private jets. Delta AirElite, as it is known, is the single bright spot in an otherwise dark business environment for this U.S. legacy carrier. Some are speculating that Delta should sell its AirElite business to raise funds and turn around the carrier, but I have another more radical take on things that I believe should be considered instead. Established in 1984, Delta AirElite has been steadily growing and making money for Delta. While the airline part of the company is rapidly and continually hemorrhaging cash, AirElite continues to make money and grow. Indeed, with a fleet of sought after business jets in its portfolio including the Challenger 300, Gulfstream IV-SP, and Learjet 31A, AirElite is an attractive company for any potential suitor. Airlines of North America The airline industry is in a constant state of flux. In 2005, Trans Meridian Airlines quit doing business while EOS Airlines and Maxjet Airways took to the skies. By early 2006, Independence Air quit flying and Virgin America announced that they were seeking U.S. government approval in hopes of taking their first flight. Beyond the U.S. borders, the Mexican airline industry is in the process of being revolutionized as the Mexican government divests itself of interest in two leading carriers. With this particular decision a handful of new carriers are set to take off south of the U.S. border. To keep track of the all the changes involves a ton of work, but I've done the hard work for you. The following list contains all of the current airlines serving the Canada, the United States, and Mexico. Stay tuned…more air carriers are certain to follow while some existing carriers may call it quits! How many names do you recognize? Some carriers are strictly charter operators while others fly regionally. Still others are very small operators of Cessna aircraft, not what you might consider “airline” aircraft, but in the eyes of the Federal Aviation Administration they are: Remember Peoplexpress? I got my start working in the flying industry while attending Ramapo College of New Jersey in the early 1980s. At that school, they had posted an opportunity to work as a "co-op" student for an airline based at EWR. PEOPLExpress Airlines was the name and they needed students to handle reservations at their Haynes Avenue facility, which was really the UAL building. For $5.00 per hour I took the bait and worked from February to August 1984. The job was tedious, the phone system antiquated, the company was a calamity. Still, it was fun and I enjoyed my occassional trips over to the old hangar to watch aircraft take off. Bad Airline Food - Now This?! Airline food has long been the scourge of the industry. Literally! With customer expectations low, few expect that the meal they are served onboard an airliner will rise to the level of even a family style restaurant. On the other hand, corporate jet catering is a whole different animal. With delectable entrees, delightful soups, outstanding appetizers and snacks, and the most decadent desserts imaginable, the passenger on a private jet expects [and pays for!] food akin to a five star performance. Additional Start Up Airlines Are Looming Several months ago, in a related article, I made mention of two start up air carriers for the US market. Since then, both EOS Airlines and Maxjet Airways have taken flight and are successfully serving their passengers and making plans for future expansion. Beyond these two carriers, additional carriers are waiting to take their first flights. Let's take a look at some leading contenders. Fly First Class -- This Florida based air carrier is planning to use Wilmington, NC as its base. With flights to Bermuda and London planned, the airline -- true to its name -- will offer only one level of service, first class. Expected first flight is sometime during the second quarter of 2006. Leading Private Jet Charter Operators Flying with the airlines can be a time consuming as well as risky proposition for businessmen as well as for people of wealth. If you absolutely, positively must get somewhere fast you are putting your trust in a system that is overcrowded, inconvenient, and failing when you fly with the airlines. What are your options? Rent or lease a private jet. The following list features some of the leading private jet charter operators in the U.S. Atlantic Aviation Flight Services Jet Aviation Sold To Permira Funds Jet Aviation has announced that they have been sold, pending antitrust clearance, to the Permira Funds a leading international private equity specialist. Ending several years of speculation, the Zurich based operator of business jet services has finally accomplished what had long been expected: the sale of the Hirschmann family business to outsiders. As early as 2000 the sale of Jet Aviation had been expected by employees as well as by industry insiders. Indeed, Jet Aviation management had been marketed openly throughout 2001 by Goldman Sachs, but the sale was cancelled when a suitable buyer was not found and the terrorist attacks put a further drag on an already downturning economy. Still, rumors of the sale of the company persisted and heated up recently with speculation that one of Warren Buffet's companies, i.e., Gulfstream Aerospace, may have been interested in the company's maintenance facilities. Flight Safety: Ensuring That Your Next Flight Is A Safe One If you have ever flown you likely are aware of several government organizations dedicated to the oversight of the aviation industry. Alphabet soup sounding names such as the FAA, DOT, and NSTB are often mentioned, but each organization has a distinct role in ensuring passenger safety. Let’s take a look at three federal agencies tasked with ensuring that your next flight is a safe one. Federal Aviation Administration – The Federal Aviation Administration, or FAA, is responsible for the safety of civil aviation. According to their web site [1], the FAA is tasked with the following responsibilities: Flight Coordinator Job Sites Finding work as an aircraft flight coordinator typically involves submitting your resume directly to companies that may be hiring. Still, it can be a laborious process trying to track down and find those companies that are hiring. On the other hand, there are several web sites on the internet that list flight coordinator jobs from time to time. No, there aren’t an abundance of jobs available, but if you know where to look, you can make the process easier on yourself. Aviation Employment Board – A free site, this board lists job opportunities across the spectrum of business and commercial aviation. Registration is free and you can post your resume for free as well. Visit www.aviationemploymentboard.net for more information. Eos Airlines’ $6500 Roundtrip Airfare This just in: EOS Airlines, an upstart air carrier operating flights between New York’s JFK Airport and London’s Stanstead Airport has slashed their fares. For just $5000 round trip passengers can now fly the premium jet carrier and save a bundle. It gets even better than this: purchase one round trip ticket and a companion can fly for free; restrictions apply. Has the airline world gone crazy, or is EOS onto something? Read on for all the amazing details. On October 25, 2005, EOS Airlines’ “official” inaugural flight took off one week after a series of pre-inaugural flights. Directed toward the business traveler, EOS operates custom outfitted Boeing 757 aircraft with seating for just 48 passengers. EOS, which means “Greek goddess of the dawn”, is offering a level of service unlike any other in the industry. Corporate Jets: Taking Flight! Flying on a 40 million dollar corporate jet is an experience like none other. Being attended to by a skilled corporate flight attendant in the opulent splendor of your luxuriously appointed cabin is something that you will not soon forget. Are you interested in leasing or renting a private jet? If so, the following information will help you in your quest. Safe flying! Most people get their first taste of private jet flying by chartering a flight. Businesses, celebrities, and private individuals and families all peruse this service. You can too and the following list features some of the companies willing and able to provide this type of service for you: Wonderful Wildwood, New Jersey The Jersey Shore boasts some of the most crowded vacation destinations going. However, one popular resort, The Wildwoods, is truly a happening place and well worth the trip despite the crowds. Much of this venerable beach community took off in the 1950s with the opening up of the Garden State Parkway and the Atlantic City Expressway. Many of the hotels still gracing the area still reflect that fifties look: tail fins, big hair, Elvis, and more. Old hotels with a bit of tackiness to be sure, but still a fun place to check out. 9 North Carolina Beach Destinations! Summer brings with it warmth and high humidity. The season also offers the opportunity for heat weary folks to escape to the mountains or beaches for a well deserved rest. In North Carolina, there are several beach destinations worth visiting; nine top sites are featured here. 1. The Outer Banks -- Perhaps the most well known of all the beaches in the Carolinas, the Outer Banks offers much history as well as attractive beaches. You can visit the spot where the Wright Brothers first took flight in Kill Devil Hills as well as the first European settlement on Roanoke Island. Welcome to Cyber Monday! Well, I learned something new this past weekend. Specifically, the Monday following Thanksgiving weekend is one of the busiest days for online retailers. Dubbed “Cyber Monday” by some, online merchants track one of the largest one day spikes in sales on this particular day much like “brick and mortar” purveyors experience with “Black Friday” the day that follows Thanksgiving. It is the Christmas shopping season…happy Cyber Monday to you! According to Shop.org, an association of online retailers, more than 75% of their members reported a significant surge in traffic on the Monday following the extended Thanksgiving weekend in 2004. Shop.org gives the following reasons for the surge: Black Friday Is Coming! A day is soon coming that some folks are looking at with dread, for others in eager anticipation, while the rest of us are scratching our heads not knowing what to make of it. So, what am I talking about? Why, Black Friday, the day immediately following Thanksgiving Day in the US. So, why so black and why on a Friday? Traditionally, the day after Thanksgiving used to mean one thing for retailers: it was the first day in the lengthy retailing calendar where a store could make enough money [move merchandise] to see yearly losses [for bookkeeping purposes represented by the color red] turn into gains [represented by the color black]. Supposedly, all the sales completed throughout the year were done at a loss until that one big day, Black Friday, whereby enough merchandise is sold to reverse course and to begin to turn a profit for the year. What Gramps Really Wants For Christmas! Trying to find that perfect gift for Grandpa can certainly be a difficult task. Your Gramps has seen it all, tried everything, and is long past the age of following his youthful pursuits. Still, the old man has a life and one that can certainly be enriched by one of the following gift ideas I have listed for you. Go ahead and make an old man happy. Goodness knows he has been grumpy for way too long! 1. Hearing Aid -- That’s right, Gramps hasn’t been able to hear much lately and what he does hear he changes around. Give the gift that keeps on hearing and he’ll be very grateful. Opt for the fashionable model that sticks outside of his ear canal and comes in your choice of invigorating colors: rad red, bionic blue, glittery green, or psychedelic orange. What Gals Really Want For Christmas! Okay, guys: listen up! I am here to tell you what women want for Christmas. You probably already know it, but you don’t understand it. What am I saying? Well, those little ads that have been mysteriously popping up on your dresser, on your workbench, or plastered to the windshield of your truck did not get there by accident. Somebody who wants you to pay close attention to what she really wants put it there. You don’t think the wind blew it there do you? Oh, please! Let’s go down the list and find out what your lady really wants for Christmas. I abbreviated everything for clarity and to be concise. That means the 27 items she really wants are condensed to just five. Get it? 1. Jewelry – You had to ask? What woman doesn’t want something shiny to wear on her fingers, around her neck, her wrist, her anklet, her belly button…Okay, I’m not talking custom jewelry either. I’m talking about something that will retain its shine in all weather conditions and can be counted in the number of karats it possesses. You can count on it setting you back at least through the following June, probably as late as Thanksgiving… Christmas Shopping: Bargains For You! This Christmas season promises to be one filled with exceptional sales and across the board bargains for eager shoppers. With fuel prices running high, interest rates climbing, and consumer sentiment mixed, merchants know that they must slash prices in order to move merchandise. Let’s take a look at some of the types of sales certain to greet price conscious shoppers this holiday season. Early Bird/Late Night Bargains – Well before Thanksgiving some retailers are already opening early or staying open late in order to accommodate shoppers. A big lure: Get ten percent back/off of select purchases over $50. Depending on the details of the offer, you can either apply savings to your current purchase or as credit toward future purchases. Variations of this lure include incremental rewards, i.e. $15 off of purchases of $75 or more, $20 off of purchases of $100 or more, etc. Read the fine print as exceptions do apply! Combating Christmas Shopping Stress Anne Gadsden handles Christmas shopping the "new fashioned" way. She puts on a CD of classical music such as Pachelbel's Canon in D, logs on to the internet, and starts surfing. The Newark mother of three says, "I've already done the store thing and now its time for me to get gifts for family members who don't live in New Jersey. I visit Amazon and Buy.com; between the two companies I usually find something that I need. Besides, shipping is free if I spend at least $25 and that isn't hard to do!" Tasha Crimson shops early. Very early. "I shop all summer long starting when we go to the shore after July 4th all the way up to Labor Day. That's when I'm done. I don't have to put up with the hassles, I shop at my own speed, and I don't have to freeze as I run from my car to the store!," the East Orange grandmother of eight chuckled. What Guys Really Want For Christmas! Okay, ladies: listen up! I am here to tell you what men want for Christmas. It isn’t cologne and it isn’t some awful looking tie. Please! It could be NFL playoff tickets, but we know that prices for them are through the roof. Instead, us guys want stuff that is both useful and practical something we won’t pretend to like and hide away in our closets, but stuff that we will use all the time. I’ve made a list to make it easy on you as I know how hard it can be for us guys to communicate to our gals. 1. NFL Tickets!!! No, wait! You can go to eBay and get “discounted” tickets for a mid-January meeting between the Giants and some other team for a lot less than what you’ll pay through a neighborhood scalper. How many fans do you think will put up with ten degree Meadowlands cold on a January day to see the Giants. Oh, yeah, I forgot: plenty. Tickets are likely to go for one or two thousand a piece! Mauled At The Mall! I love shopping. Online, that is. No crowds at the malls and certainly no jostling for a parking space. Why would anyone want to traverse crowded New Jersey streets only to go to an equally crowded mall staffed by rude sales staff? Okay, I'm exaggerating. There are plenty of nice people working at the malls and the internet doesn't give you the "touchy-feely" you can get at a store by examining a product up close and personal, but with so many nice downtown shopping areas in New Jersey why not visit one of these instead? The Perfect Christmas Gift I suppose there is no such thing as the imperfect Christmas gift, but I am sure that there are some gifts that are less desirably received than others. Let's take a look at the "Personal Trimmer." Every time I hear of one of these items or see it in the store I think, "nose hair trimmer." Hey, there is no way of getting around it: if you give this gift you are telling the recipient that the strand of hair hanging out of their left nostril is unsightly. Or, since the product is also marketed for the ears, you've noticed a bit 'o fuzz on their earlobes. How to Attract Birds to Your Backyard Paradise For Less Than $100 Like many Americans, you may find bird watching to be a fascinating hobby. At the same time, perhaps you wonder how you can attract regular visitors to your yard without busting the bank by purchasing expensive foliage, feeders, and food. Here are some tips toward helping you establish a backyard paradise that is certain to welcome birds without draining your wallet. 1. Purchase a Birdbath. Prices for birdbaths can run anywhere from 10 dollars for the plastic model to well into the hundreds of dollars for the sculpted concrete model with lights and a waterfall. Birds are attracted to water, the glitter of sunlight will catch their eyes and bring them flying in. So, the plastic one works as well as the expensive one. If you must have a better model, check out the yard sales in your neighborhood for a good used birdbath. Amount budgeted: $10. Relentless Internet Marketing The internet is a fantastic place to promote your skills and accomplishments. You can pay a large sum of money by coming up with banner ad or pay per click plans to “get the word out” or you can go the budget way and market yourself smartly without spending nary a dime. I’ll leave the money plans for another article, instead let’s take a look at smart ways for you to promote you or your product online for little or no money! Who said you have to have a marketing budget to promote yourself? Well, many companies do, but they are in the business to sell you something [namely, their marketing plan]. If you have the money to spend on marketing then go for it. If not, then you must examine cost effective ways to get your name out there. Here are some of my personal favorites: PHPBB: You Can Simplify the Set Up Process! In several previous articles I mentioned my having downloaded and installed the fantastic PHPBB open source forum. I shared with readers the lengthy and tedious process of selecting the right mirror, downloading the files to my computer, and following all the long, drawn out, and complicated set up steps. Fortunately, what was once a procedure that took the better part of a day can now take 30 minutes or less to complete! Let’s take a look how you can shorten the entire set up process and start benefiting from this free, popular program. When I set up my first two PHPBB forums in June 2005, I did so under duress. Just days earlier, my then message board host – EZBoard – had their entire system shut down by hackers. Or so they claimed. My two popular sites, the Aviation Employment Board and the Corporate Flight Attendant Community were left in the dark as EZBoard’s system rendered the sites virtually inoperable. With a repair promised, but several weeks away, I decided that I needed to quickly move away from EZBoard and over to a forum where I could exercise full control. Enter PHPBB. PHPBB2: Selecting the Correct Update In my previous articles about PHPBB2 I shared with readers my experience in shifting over to this type of software and I also listed some of my favorite mods and styles. If you already have downloaded PHPBB2 and are running it on your computer you have a great piece of open source software at your finger tips. As with any program you must keep it up to date. Let’s take a look at some important things to consider in keeping your program current. First of all, the best thing you can do is to subscribe to the opt-in mailing list for notification of any updates. You must subscribe as no one will automatically tell you your site is out of date although your administration panel will give that information to you. To opt-in please visit www.phpbb.com to subscribe. Phpbb2: A Tapestry Of World Languages Several of my related articles about PHPBB2, the open source program that helps webmasters create and maintain internet forums, touched on many of the technical aspects of the program. What you may not know is that PHPBB2 has a worldwide audience with the potential to reach more than half of the world’s population in their native language. Chalk it up to a combination of expert programmers and wonderful translators who have made this feat a reality. Without their hard work, the software’s reach would be quite limited. Let’s take a look at how translators have expanded PHPBB2 to the far corners of our world. As with any software program, expanding it beyond one’s native language presents its own special challenges. Not only must you write the code correctly, but you must translate it into various world languages, many of which are distinctly different from others. Phpbb2: My Favorite Mods I mentioned in a previous article about all the ins and outs of using PHPBB2, an open source forum. Although it does have some quirks about it, the program is free and with a little help from the PHPBB community, not impossible to install even for the novice. The program you will upload, however, is fairly basic in nature therefore modifications [or, mods as some prefer to call them] can be useful to install. I have found several favorites that have worked rather well for me. Now, I am plan on sharing that information with you! Chat – What forum isn’t complete without a chat room. PHPBB2, for one. Yes, you have to install one yourself but the IRQ chat add-on is certainly worth it and it works much better than some that I have seen on sites that contain this feature. EZBoard is one such site that comes to mind. Phpbb2: All It Can Be? Please allow me to start off and say that I am very happy to run PHP software on my computer. Specifically, the bulletin boards developed by PHPBB2 [an open source program] works head and shoulders above the EZBoard system I gave up on several months earlier. Still, it has its own special challenges that only a regular user or administrator can appreciate. If you are considering starting your own message board community please read on for some homespun advice on how to make PHPBB2 work best for you. On Memorial Day 2005 I had a rude awakening. Although a national holiday here in the U.S. I was taking advantage of that day to catch up on some much needed behind the scenes work. You see, when you work for yourself a holiday just isn’t the same thing. It ends up being a day where your phone isn’t likely to ring all that much, thereby making it a better opportunity to catch up on all the little niggling details of operating a business, like paying bills and bookkeeping. Okay, I digress. The Demise Of Ezboard For years, EZBoard was a community that offered relatively cheap and easy to maintain forums for managers. Virtually anyone could register, design, and layout a site and invite their friends to participate. Indeed, some of the largest forums on the internet are built upon EZBoard. Unfortunately, a recent system-wide hacking attack has destroyed the company's reputation and sent many managers packing. Let's look at the venerable community and the fatal flaw that has toppled the company from its perch. At one time EZBoard boasted over 14,000 web communities. Many were started by individuals seeking a discussion forum for their favorite topics, while others were started by business people such as myself. The reasons businesses were attracted to EZBoard were two-fold: Forum Essentials: Dress Up Your Site For The Holidays If you manage a message board community, a key to your site's success is the lively banter between members. Without conversation, your site will quickly die off. You can't police your forum and respond to every post, but there are a few things you can do as an administrator to get things moving again. Hold a contest. Yes, who doesn't like to win something, anything? You don't have to spend a lot of money and the prize can be as simple as a magazine subscription, free membership for one year to your site, or an electronic gift card for the lucky winner. Want to go big time? Find a merchant to sponsor a gift; in exchange for their donation give them free advertising on your site for an agreed period of time. 25 Fat, Juicy Keywords With the holiday season fast approaching and the all important new year sales blitz just around the corner, webmasters are preparing to cash in like never before to capture the greater part of the pay per click revenue spoils. AdSense has some new competition in Chitika and Yahoo’s Publishing Network is really taking off. The following 25 keywords I have identified as giving exceptionally larger than life payouts; adjust your site accordingly to pull in the greatest amount of cash over the next few months. Don’t expect me to share with you actual pay out amounts [they vary, anyway]; I did my homework so now do yours too! The following are 25 words followed by my comments: 99 High Paying Keywords: The Secret Is Out! Incorporating high paying keywords into your site is critical to maximizing your income. Who has the time to figure it all out? How much are you willing to pay for this type of information? The secret is out: Here are 99 keywords you can use with payouts averaging $2-$100 per click: 1. Structured settlements High Paying Lateral Keywords If you run AdSense on your site you know that some words pay more than others, much more in fact. More than likely you have also learned that terms like "structured settlements" and "mesothelioma" can produce incredibly high PPC revenue, if they show up on your site at all. Unfortunately hundreds of thousands of other webmasters are "on" to this practice judging by the number of sites created regularly to capitalize on the phenomenom. So, where does this leave you? Out in the cold? No, by going after "lateral" keywords and terms you can produce a site that is even more profitable than these other sites. I will show you how you can do just that. What do I mean by "high paying lateral keywords?" Essentially, these are words, or terms, that webmasters dismiss as not being relevant or are unrelated to certain high paying keywords. For instance, you know that the term "free adware" has a nice payout. You gear your article or page accordingly to have AdSense produce the lucrative ads and, instead, you come up with ads that are relevant but not big payers. Should you give up? No, of course not. Instead, research similar terms that can also serve up high paying ads and go with them. In this case the following could be considered: Search Engine Wars: Google Thumps Yahoo, Msn Well the score is in: Google has resoundingly thumped Yahoo and MSN in the ongoing search engine wars. I wouldn’t have believed it if I hadn’t read it myself; Google continues to grow in size and popularity while Yahoo and MSN continue to firm up their “also ran” positions. What does this mean for you? Plenty, especially if you are wasting your time with the other search engines. Yes, I am surprised. My previous statistics were evidently a bit outdated as I had the search engine war between the Big 3 Providers -- Google, Yahoo, and MSN -- running a tight 1-2-3. Indeed, it must have been early in 2005 the last time I bothered to look at the statistics, but at that time my stats showed that Google controlled 36% while Yahoo and MSN were running at 33% and 32% respectively. Yes, the statistics total to more than 100% since they include those people who use more than one search engine [in this case they are counted twice]. Domain Names: Still Paying Too Much? Are you still paying $25, $35, or more for a new domain name? If so, you are paying too much as domain name prices continue to drop. You can save money on new domain names; please read on to learn how you can find big savings. Avoid the Big Registrars – The priciest domain names are sold through the legendary and established domain name registries. Many have been charging their customers $25 or more for years, but you don’t have to pay that much! They want you to think they are “it” when it comes to registering your domain names; quite frankly, they aren’t “it!” Identity Theft: Stop It Now! You may be a victim of identity theft and not even know it. Thieves may have secured important information about you and are using it without you knowing what they are doing. By the time you discover their nasty deeds, much damage may have already been done. While you may not be held responsible for their antics, the aggravation and recurring pain you will go through in restoring your good name can be intense. Let’s take a look at some ways you can stop identity theft now. Protect your social security number. There are very few people in life who really need to know your social security number. Besides government entities and certain creditors, no one should be asking you for that information. If they do, politely refuse or instruct them to mail their request to you in writing. A Little Something Extra For Your Clients As a writer, editor, web designer, forum maven, etc. [boy, I sound multi-talented!] I try to give my clients a/k/a customers a little something extra whenever or wherever possible. No, not so that they take advantage of my kindness, rather to show that I go the extra mile for them. Hey, it is a competitive market out there and I don't want to grow complacent! So, exactly what am I talking about? Blogs. That's right, I enjoy blogging so much that I have decided to include a "blog option" as part of my web package for clients [new and existing] who want one during 2006. It doesn't cost me any money for the software, but it will cost me approximately one hour's time to set up each blog. Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8: On and Off Road Exhilaration Call it MOPAR madness or call it sheer, ingenious automotive marketing and engineering, but whatever you decide to call the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8, you must realize one thing: no production vehicle has effectively combined off road ruggedness with on road durability. Until the Grand Cherokee SRT8 came along that is. Yes, not since the GMC Typhoon has an SUV proven to be a highway dominator as well as an off road maven. However, the Jeep Cherokee SRT8 goes well beyond any 4x4 vehicle by delivering a versatile, pavement pounding, all-around SUV. The folks at Chrysler’s Street and Racing Technology (SRT) group could not leave well enough alone. From the Neon to the Viper and from the 300C to the Ram pickup truck, no model has been too sacred to receive a proper work over from the team. First it was a bevy of Dodge models, then it was the Chrysler 300C, but no Jeep model had yet been targeted for the group’s overhaul. The Grand Cherokee however was past due as fond memories of the GMC Typhoon likely played a part in the decision to inject “SRT steroids” into a widely acclaimed Jeep model. Indeed, the SRT group knew that 0 to 60 in five seconds with the Grand Cherokee would beat the Typhoon’s numbers by about four tenths of a second, easily making the Jeep model the all time leader on the road as it is already off the road. The Heart Pounding, Road Ripping Dodge Magnum SRT8 Thanks to the Chrysler Group’s relationship with Mercedes – both companies are owned by DaimlerChrysler – the automaker markets a successful group of full size, rear wheel drive cars powering the Dodge and Chrysler brands. Tapping Mercedes technology in the form of their suspensions, rear differentials, and automatic transmissions three vehicles, including the Dodge Magnum, are now gracing North American highways with their “can’t miss” presence. The Dodge Magnum wagon, as the first vehicle based on the LX platform, has successfully erased most people’s concept of what a “station wagon” should be. With its menacing front end, rakish body lines, and abundant hauling capacity the Magnum is no mere “mom mobile” instead, the car is a true sport wagon. Taking that theme to the extreme is the Magnum SRT8, the ultimate fusion of sport wagon and muscle car. When it comes to engines, Magnum owners have plenty of choices. From the 2.7L V6 powering the SE, to the 3.5L V6 found underneath the hood of the SXT, to the explosive intensity generated by the 5.7L Hemi V8 that comes with the sporty R/T, Magnum owners have a variety of choices not found in many vehicle’s of its class. Thinking that some Dodge fanatics would want even something more powerful than the R/T, the brand released the SRT8 in 2005 which features a 6.1L Hemi V8 that bangs out an extraordinary 425 horses and 420 lb.-ft of torque. Add on the 20 inch aluminum wheels, firm up the suspension, and equip the model with bigger brakes and you have one untamable Magnum! Chrysler 300c Srt8: The Fusion Of Luxury And Performance Full sized, rear wheel drive luxury is back in vogue. Thanks to the introduction of the Chrysler 300C, consumers have a choice that goes beyond the dated Lincoln Town Car or the expensive BMW 7 Series. With the release of the 300C, Chrysler is doing its part in revolutionizing full size car performance as the 300C is edgy, luxurious, and in the case of the SRT8 model, extremely fast. Read on to learn how you can maximize the performance of your Chrysler 300C SRT8 with a pair of trusty, potent aftermarket enhancements. Three decades after the 300 designation was retired, Chrysler resurrected the 300 name and placed it on a shortened version of its big LH sedan. The 300M – as it was called -- was praised for its smooth style and luxurious appointments, however the V6 powered, front wheel drive model failed to live up to the vaunted ancestry of the original 300 series built by Chrysler. Thus, the car was considered only a 300 in name, not in substance. Chrysler's Rip Roaring Srt Family Of Vehicles Step back in time some fifty years ago and you would see that the American automotive market was much different than it is today. Three companies dominated the scene: GM, Ford, and Chrysler with the newly formed American Motors making up the bulk of the sales. Volkswagen was new to the U.S. market with its legendary Beetle while Toyota was still a few years away from marketing its very first cars. Although the term “muscle car” wasn’t used until the 1960s, a series of “Hemi powered” vehicles from the Chrysler Corporation began to hit the streets. These particular models influenced this unique segment for several years until market changes in the early 1970s effectively eliminated that category. Today, muscle cars are back and the Chrysler Group is leading the way with its expansive line up of SRT vehicles. Although consumer tastes have changed as has the overall automotive market, Chrysler’s SRT family of vehicles remains a popular choice for performance enthusiasts everywhere. Read on and we’ll explore the vehicles that are shaping the new muscle car era. Several years before Daimler-Benz and the Chrysler Corporation merged to form DaimlerChrysler, a team of Chrysler employees was tasked to invigorate the automaker’s line up with bold and exciting models. The first vehicle produced by “Team Viper” was the Dodge Viper, Mopar’s answer to the Chevy Corvette; a few years later it was followed by the Plymouth Prowler, a limited production retro-style roadster produced by a parallel group, “Team Prowler”. Clearly, Chrysler was attempting to erase its uninspiring K-car image with the production of these two models and although production was very limited, the vehicles managed to positively impact the Dodge and Plymouth brands. Mercedes Blue: New Diesels Miss The Mark Mercedes-Benz has long been an expert builder of diesel engines, producing hundreds of thousands of the alternate-fuel driven power plants every year. Indeed, in Europe alone, a significant portion of the vehicles destined for continental homes are diesel aspirated models. In the U.S., however, Mercedes is having a bit of a problem with its line of diesel engines as more stringent emission control standards makes the marketing of diesel powered cars more difficult. Starting this fall Mercedes will be introducing its all new E320 Bluetec diesel powered car that meets EPA standards; unfortunately, five states will not permit the sale of these models leaving parent DaimlerChrysler feeling a little bit blue. You have to hand it to Mercedes and to other automakers that are trying to produce fuel efficient cars but are facing increasingly more difficult emissions restrictions in the U.S. It is one thing when the Environmental Protection Agency {EPA} raises pollution standards, but a whole ‘nuther thing when individual states seek to raise that standard higher. California, for instance, has long stood on its own requiring automakers to produce cars that met pollution standards that are tougher than the other 49 states’ requirements. Recently, New York, Vermont, Maine, and Massachusetts joined in and now require the same tough standards as the Golden State. The Race Car Inspired Bmw M3 German premier automotive maker BMW continues to maintain its hold as the top selling luxury auto brand in the world. Battling with archrival Mercedes-Benz year in and year out for the highest laurels, BMW continues to constantly tweak its existing line and add new vehicles to its line in a bid to stimulate and strengthen customer interest. One area where BMW has found much of its recent success is with its race car inspired line of vehicles, the M Series. Since 1979 various Motorsports [M} tags have been affixed to vehicles that have been developed by the BMW Motorsports division, including the BMW M3 a car based on BMW’s popular 3 Series. Today, BMW engineers are hard at work on developing an all new BMW M3 and, if all of the auto buzz is correct, very few cars will be able to keep up with this 400 hp road commander. Please keep reading for a closer look at the all new, soon to be released, BMW M3. A pitched battle in autodom continues to gather force pitting German automaker against German automaker. Legendary Mercedes-Benz is taking on heralded BMW for the right to call themselves the top selling luxury brand in the world. For years, the honor belonged exclusively to Mercedes-Benz, but a recent stumble on Mercedes’ part coupled with a surge of new products from BMW has placed BMW in first place. Not far behind the two is Lexus, the luxury division of Toyota, but for now the battle remains a fight between these two German automakers. 2007 Saturn Aura: The Wait Is Over! When Saturn exited the midsize car market a few years ago they left with a promise: we’ll be back. After several years of lackluster sales, GM’s Saturn division dropped the unpopular L Series in 2004 with no immediate replacement waiting. Thanks in part to the company’s German division, Opel, Saturn has a new car to capture the imagination of sedan enthusiasts everywhere. The AURA, a five passenger Euro style sedan, is now on display at your local Saturn dealership. Please read on to see what the AURA has in store for buyers just like you. The L Series wasn’t a bad car, it just got lost in a sea of competition dominated by popular Camrys, versatile Accords, and dependable Taurus’s. Bland styling didn’t help matters either as the car never approached General Motors’ expectations, therefore the automaker decided to drop the model from Saturn’s then spartan line up. Saturn: That Was Then, This Is Now Step back in time with me if you would, about 20 years to be precise, to an era when automaker General Motors was busy making plans for their all new company, Saturn. This wasn’t to be just another GM division mind you as Saturn was created as a separate import fighting company meant to take on the likes of Toyota and Honda. By 1990, the first Saturn cars rolled off a bucolic Tennessee countryside assembly line signaling a new cooperation between workers and management. Immediately, the funky little “S Series” of sedans, wagons, and coupes were a hit and GM was soon lauded for taking a bold initiative. Today, Saturn is much different from the brand that took on Japan’s top automakers. Instead of being a separate, wholly owned car company the make is now one of General Motors’ many automotive divisions. The S Series sold well and the introduction of subsequent models helped the brand, but ultimately parent GM decided to pull the company within the General’s fold as it chose to close down Oldsmobile instead. Current models being sold by Saturn are much different from what was originally offered, but the company has managed to keep one huge attribute that originally propelled the brand forward: people are first. Let’s take a look at Saturn’s current line up and the vehicles soon to be introduced. Audi A8: Mercedes, Bmw Beware! When you think of German automotive excellence, Mercedes and BMW are two brands that easily come to mind. Audi, too, has been making a name for itself and is poised to cause a lot of trouble for its Bavarian cousins with its current line of cars and planned models. The cream of the crop Audi is the A8, a true champion and a terrific alternative to BMW and Mercedes. Let’s take a closer look at Audi’s top-of-the-line sedan and what it has to offer to you, the European sedan enthusiast. Back in 1994 Audi decided to take on Mercedes and BMW by introducing an all new car the full size Audi A8. As the first car built on an entirely aluminum platform [for weight savings optimization] the Audi A8 has been constantly redefining the German luxury car market ever since. Way back in 1997, the Audi A8 became the first car in the world to offer six air bags. Later, more powerful diesel and gasoline powered engines were introduced to further separate the brand from its competitors. Audi A4: From Passat And Back Sometimes an automaker will introduce a vehicle based upon the platform of a “lesser” model. Typically, this plan is employed when costs need to be cut to realize real savings. The theory is that the shared platform can be tweaked enough to distinguish the upscale model from the ordinary one. Add in leather, a taut suspension, and upgraded powerplant options and you can probably pull it off. For Audi, the introduction of the all-new Audi A4 during the mid1990s allowed the German automaker to capitalize on the success of the Volkswagen Passat, a midsize car from its European cousin. The plan worked, but it was only a temporary move. Let’s take a look at the Audi A4 and its surge to the top of German automotive excellence. For years, the Audi 80 defined the smaller cars in Audi’s line up. By the early 1990s, the aging model was in need of updating and the name itself would need to be changed with the two digit alphanumeric model designation recently adopted by Audi. Cost pressures, however, made the development of an all-new from-the-ground-up model impossible. Instead, Audi tapped Volkswagen and based the original Audi A4 upon the successful VW Passat. All About Audi German sport luxury brand Audi has played a strong role in helping to shape consumer tastes and influence the entire European touring market. For nearly 100 years, the Audi brand has been synonymous with producing high quality, reliable, and well engineered vehicles. An odd start almost scuttled the company’s plans, yet today Audi has risen above adversity and is producing cars that are world renowned in quality and engineering. August Horch founded Horch Automotive in Cologne, Germany in 1899, and began manufacturing cars in 1901 which featured a horizontal engine producing upwards of 5 horsepower. Demand for these models propelled Horch to expand production and move to a larger manufacturing facility where a newer, more powerful model cranking out a then-amazing 10 horsepower was released. Acura Integra: The Car, The Legend Released as a 1987 model, the very first Acura Integra started what was to become a strong following of owners who were drawn in by the car’s sports appeal and reasonable prices. Based on the Honda Civic, the Integra successfully brought customers over to the Acura brand and has been widely credited with spurring Honda’s luxury division to its “legendary” success. In 2002, Acura renamed the car the “RSX” to bring the name in line with the alphabet soup designation of each of its models. Whatever you call the car, the Integra has lived up to all of the hype surrounding the model. Let’s take a closer look a vehicle that has an interesting, if not a bit strange, legacy. [1] [2] [3] [4] [5]

SIGN UP FOR FREE   Sign Up for a free account or learn more. Submit Articles Member Login Top Authors Most Popular Articles Submission Guidelines Ezine Notifications Article RSS Feeds About Us Link to Us Contact Us Privacy Policy Terms of Service   Most Recent Articles Find a Good Family Law Attorney If you are in need of locating a good attorney, one who specializes in family law, then you need someone who can look after your interests as well as the interests of your children. I have listed five options to help you find the attorney who is right for you. 1. Check with Friends, Family – People you know can be an excellent resource to help you locate a family law attorney. Somebody you know probably has been through a similar experience; their advice and support can be useful to you. Fujifilm FinePix A303 Digital Camera Two years ago I purchased my first digital camera. At that time, prices for a 3.0 and higher mega pixel camera were around $350. Since then, as with all electronic gadgets, prices have dropped significantly while the mega pixels have gone up. I chose the Fujifilm's A303 digital camera, which has fared well for me, so permit me the opportunity to tell you why. I desperately needed a digital camera when my web business took off. On many different occasions I found myself wanting to take a picture of a person, place or thing and having to rely on a 35mm camera. Trouble was I wasn't very good at taking pictures. Usually my subject came out blurry or the picture needed cropping. Yes, getting pictures developed on disk would have resolved the latter problem, but it was the former problem -- blurry pictures -- that was causing me the most grief. If only I could see "on the spot" how my picture turned out. If it turned out poorly, I could reshoot. Naturally, a digital camera presented to me something that no 35mm camera could offer; I made the purchase of a 3.2 mega pixel camera by Fujifilm after considerable shopping around and reading product reviews online. Texas Instruments TI-83 Plus Calculator Calculators have shrunk in size and increased in price as consumers have sought out devices that do much more than simple arithmetic. Texas Instruments has their TI-83 Plus model which helps students with their Physics, Biology, Algebra, and Pre-Calculus classes. We'll examine why this model is so popular with today's classroom students. Back in the 1970s, the slide rule gave way to calculators in many classrooms across the nation. Texas Instruments led the way as almost every student owned one of their models. Today, Texas Instruments [or, TI] continues to produce calculators and their TI-83 Plus calculator leads the way. Toshiba Qosmio G15-av501 Notebook Computer Purchasing a notebook computer can be a mind boggling experience with all the different makes and models out there. Toshiba has a strong entry in their Toshiba Qosmio G15-AV501 notebook computer. Let's examine why this particular model is certain to be an effective competitor. Unlike most laptops the Qosmio takes computing to the next level. You can watch your favorite TV programs, play DVDs, or listen to music by way of its Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005 operating system. Sporting a 17" screen the Qosmio offers a nifty 1440 x 900 pixels resolution perfect for TV or video watching. Other key features of the Qosmio include: Toshiba Qosmio G15-av501 Notebook Computer Purchasing a notebook computer can be a mind boggling experience with all the different makes and models out there. Toshiba has a strong entry in their Toshiba Qosmio G15-AV501 notebook computer. Let's examine why this particular model is certain to be an effective competitor. Unlike most laptops the Qosmio takes computing to the next level. You can watch your favorite TV programs, play DVDs, or listen to music by way of its Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005 operating system. Sporting a 17" screen the Qosmio offers a nifty 1440 x 900 pixels resolution perfect for TV or video watching. Other key features of the Qosmio include: Kodak Cx7300 Digital Camera Quality digital cameras are becoming affordable for just about everyone these days. Kodak's entry into the low cost end of the market is their CX7300 3.2 mega pixel model. You just may be surprised at what a terrific value it is. Please read on. As recently as two years ago, if you were shopping for a 3.0 mega pixel or greater camera, you would have paid approximately $249. for one. Today, prices have tumbled and it isn't uncommon to find cameras in this category going for $150 or less. Recents sale prices I have observed have brought this price down further with one retailer selling the Kodak CX7300 for just under $100. Nokia 6255i Cell Phone Nokia continues to provide a high quality and much desired product in their cell phone offerings and their 6255i flip top model does not disappoint. If you want a cell phone that is lightweight, attractive, and comes with scads of features, then this baby is for you. Amongst flip phones, the Nokia 6255i is certain to be noticed by cell phone afficionados. No bare bones model, the 6255i comes loaded with the following standard features: Alpine Living Air Classic – Taking A Closer Look For more than a decade, Americans have been becoming increasingly aware that the air that they breathe in their homes is generally not of good quality. Between cooking and pet odors, mold, mildew, the widespread use of plastic materials, and carcinogenic cleaning products, many feel that their inside air has been compromised. What do consumers do? Purchase an air purifier. In 1998 I was given the gift of an Alpine Living Air Classic machine. It has been touted as an ideal solution for problem air. Let’s see if the product lives up to its billing. As far as air purifiers go, the Alpine Living Air Classic [now sold by EcoQuest International] is neither cheap nor does it look cheap. Weighing 19 pounds, the “Classic” is housed in a wooden cabinet available to consumers in four colors: dark walnut, light oak, putty, and black. It is a solid unit with a thick six foot electrical cord. Claiming coverage of up to 3,000 square feet most homes could operate with just one unit although a second one might be needed if your house is large, indoor air pollution is high, or you have high humidity. Prices currently start at $549 so it is no cheap investment. 3 Hot Selling Notebook Computers The laptop market is an overcrowded field with literally hundreds of offerings available to consumers. Some laptops are very basic models with Celeron processors while others are full blown multimedia powerhouses. Featured here are three top models from the “plain Jane” to the middle of the road, to the fully loaded. Dell Inspiron 1200 – It is possible to purchase a notebook computer for considerably less than $1000 and Dell offers several models below this threshold including the Inspiron 1200. This particular model is the price leader amongst laptops especially when rebates are figured in. A recent Dell advertisement has been touting the Inspiron 1200 for just $499 after a $150For rebate is received. What do you get with this model? Not a whole lot: an Intel Celeron M Processor 350 (1.30 GHz/1MB Cache/400MHz FSB); Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition; 30GB Ultra ATA Hard Drive; and 24X CD Burner/DVD Combo Drive. Surprisingly, Dell does include wireless capabilities in the form of a networking card. Dell Inspiron 600m Notebook Computer After twelve years of owning desktop computers, I finally opted for a laptop so I would no longer be chained to my desk. After months of research and weighing various makes and models, I settled on the Dell Inspiron 600m Notebook Computer. This particular model has exceeded all of my expectations and at a price that is hundreds of dollars lower than many competing brands. For several months I agonized over my next computer purchase. I knew I needed to be more mobile and only a notebook computer would permit me to take my "show on the road." Still, the decision making process was not easy as the number of different makes and models out there is mind boggling. Ultimately, I settled on a Dell in part because of previous good experience with the company as well as affordability of their product line. The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe It has taken me decades – literally – to finally pick up another C.S. Lewis book and read it. In high school I read Lewis’ book, “That Hideous Strength” and completely missed Lewis’ message. One decade later I read Lewis’ “Mere Christianity” and fully understood what Lewis was saying. With The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, part of C.S. Lewis’ Chronicles of Narnia series, the gospel message is clearly made evident in an allegorical/mystical style. Lewis used the Narnia series to explain Christ’s love for humankind to children, who are the series’ principal readers. This first novel in a series of seven books is currently a major motion picture now completing a successful run on theatre screens across the U.S. I have yet to see the movie, a Disney production, but I understand that it holds very true to Lewis’ storyline. I expect to see the movie before it leaves theatres later this month; it will become available on DVD this April. Condi: The Condoleeza Rice Story I had the satisfaction the other day of having finished a book. Yes, you would think that those of us who write for a living would be great readers. Some of us are, some of us aren’t. I probably am fairly well read overall, but that covers magazines, newspapers, articles, and the like for the most part…especially if they can be found online! My wife picked up a book for me this past Christmas and she hit it right on the mark — Condi: The Condoleeza Rice Story. Written by Antonia Felix, the book traces the remarkable life of now Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice from her days living in highly segregated Birmingham, Alabama during the 1950s and 1960s through her years as an academic scholar, college professor, and university provost, all the way up to her present work with the Bush Administration. Written in 2003, the book still has Condi as National Security Advisor to the president, but in 2004 Condi replaced Colin Powell as the Secretary of State. Grier's Almanac: 200 Years Of Service One of my favorite "reads" are almanacs. From the formerly named Information Please almanac to the Old Farmer's Almanac, these handy paperback books contain a wealth of information on virtually any subject, particularly the more generalized tomes such as Information Please. In November 2005, I visited my locally owned drugstore and found that they had free copies of Grier's Almanac available for customers. Similar in design to the Old Farmer's Almanac, I took a copy home with me. Life Lines Joyce Meyers has been inspiring Christians for decades with the pearls of inspirational wisdom which she has faithfully shared via her radio program and books. Now, her husband Dave shares a powerful devotional crafted from a strong, personal walk with the Lord. Let's take a look at the book that will certainly capture the attention of those drawn to Christian devotionals. Dave Meyers is one of those rare men who works quietly in the shadow of their wife's ministry. Joyce Meyers, who has been inspiring and motivating Christians for decades is a strong inspirational and motivational speaker in her own right. Still, Joyce credits the quiet, strong leadership of her husband in keeping her ministry on track as well as debt free. In reading Life Lines you will fully appreciate the saying, "still waters run deep" and quickly understand that Dave's relationship with his Savior is a strong one. Your Flight Questions Answered Whether you are an experienced air traveler or a novice, John Cronin's book, "Your Flight Questions Answered," has a little bit of something for everyone. Written more as a reference guide, Cronin's book covers the many questions the flying public can have before, during, and after flight. Cronin divides his book into seven sections each containing several questions with detailed answers: flight cancellations and delays, baggage handling, weather, air traffic control, airports, airliners, and pilots. His questions are written in basic form, much like the questions a concerned passenger would ask who is unfamiliar with flying. For example, one question he covers: what are those tiny pieces of metal sticking straight up from the wing? He details his answer with the explanation that they are vortex generators, which create a vortex that prevents air from separating from the wing or other surface area on an aircraft. Cronin breaks down his explanations further with additional details and often includes a supporting picture or graph to visually stress the answer. Land Rover's Resilient, But Absent Defender Tracing its routes back to postwar Britain, Land Rover has been one of the most recognized names on the Australian outback, the African savannah, and in many other far flung places around the world. Since 1948, Land Rover has rivaled Jeep and Toyota in providing the most versatile 4x4 vehicles on the planet. Today, the Defender model continues to trudge on with important updates scheduled for the 2007 model year. Please read on to capture the essence of a brand that has admirably served driver and passenger for nearly six full decades. Straight from the rubble of the Second World War, Britain was in need of a vehicle that could serve farmers, the military, government officials, and the like. Particularly in the hilly midlands of central England, not just any car would do in a bid to carry doctors, veterinarians, and military personnel on their rounds. If a road became impassable, no motorcar could be trusted to do the job. Enter Land Rover. Dodge SRT8 Charger: Not Just Another Family Sedan When the smart folks at DaimlerChrysler were looking to beef up the Dodge line, they had to look no further than the Chrysler 300C, the Mercedes derived sedan that was turning heads from the moment it was introduced. What surprised many Mopar fans was that the vaunted Charger name would be affixed not to a coupe, but to a sedan. To this day, purists grumble at that decision but one look at the Charger tells you that this is not some ordinary family sedan. Thanks to the original Chrysler Group design team the Charger received plenty of notice, even better with the later involvement of the SRT group, Dodge has turned everything up a notch yet again. Street and Racing Technology {SRT} is the name of the performance group within Chrysler that is tasked with taking already potent vehicles and turning them into class leading, road dominating muscle cars. In its earlier day the team transformed the Dodge Neon and most recently this same team did its work on the Jeep Grand Cherokee SUV. When the 2006 Charger was given its opportunity to shine, the SRT team immediately decided to plant a 6.1L V8 Hemi-powered engine underneath the car’s hood producing an amazing 425 horses along with 420 lbs-feet of torque peaking at 4800 rpm. Clearly, no car in its class matches the Charger’s competence with the exception of the 300C. Tricking Out Your Dodge Ram Srt-10 There are pick up trucks on the road and then there is the Dodge Ram SRT-10. Take one already powerful truck and add in a Viper engine and you come away with a vehicle that is truly the king of its class. DaimlerChrysler got it right when they decided to morph its popular Ram into a true road warrior able to haul people, stuff, and beat just about any car on the road. If you own a Ram SRT-10 you already know what I mean as you spend your time tricking out your truck for even more performance and enhanced looks. Before we go on, please note that there are two versions of the Ram SRT-10: one is the “standard” two door cab and the other is the quad cab. For argument’s sake, we’ll look at both Ram SRT-10 models as one. Without exception the 510 horsepower 8.3L V10 is one powerful engine. For the faint of heart, the Ram SRT-10 just isn’t for you, but for the Dodge aficionado this steroid enhanced Ram more than meets your every fantasy. Or does it? The Toyota Fj Cruiser: Breaking The Styling Mold Toyota’s growing popularity hasn’t been without controversy. No, the automaker doesn’t have much of a quality issue to contend with and, no Toyota isn’t likely to begin losing market share anytime soon. Yet, there is one area where the Japanese automaker has a bit of a perception problem and that has to do with styling. Of course Toyota vehicles aren’t ugly but there are few models being built today that are truly exciting. All that is now beginning to change as Toyota releases several head turning models including the latest rendition of its popular Camry sedan and one of its newest models, the FJ Cruiser. Keep reading and we’ll take a glance at just how Toyota is breaking one mold by breaking new ground. Maybe it was the success of the Nissan Xterra or perhaps it was the desire to recapture past glory [or something in between] but Toyota’s decision to build the FJ Cruiser may not have been an easy one. With a line up filled with various trucks and SUVs, the proposed FJ Cruiser would not only be competing against the Jeeps and Land Rovers of the world, but with some of its own models including the car based Highlander and the versatile, truck based 4Runner. Still, the model was thought to stand a chance for two reasons: the FJ Cruiser is a retro-styled vehicle taking its design cues from the FJ40 of the 1960s/1970s and for its 5 passenger seating capacity: just the right sized vehicle that consumers would want to take off roading. The Highly Refined And Capable Bmw X5 Sav The Highly Refined And Capable Bmw X5 Sav Sport utility vehicle sales continue to plummet in the face of surging gasoline prices now topping the three dollar per gallon mark. Indeed, this segment of the vehicle market has produced some of the largest profits for automakers globally and this loss of sales is impacting manufacturer bottom lines the world over. Yet, demand hasn’t dried up altogether and a rebound is possible once gas prices stabilize. For BMW owners, a larger vehicle such as the BMW X5 SAV is almost a necessity no matter what gas prices may be. Yes, the BMW X5 SAV is big topping out at just over 5,000 lbs. Are you in the market for a luxury sport utility vehicle? If so, BMW’s largest model may just have something to offer to you. For the record, BMW calls their SUVs an SAV: a sport activity vehicle. BMW’s marketing arm felt that customers should know that beyond it’s off road prowess, the BMW X5 SAV can tow as much as 6,000 pounds; carry bicycles with an optional bike rack; hold a canoe on top of its roof; and stow camping or other activity gear in its generous sized rear quarter. 2007 Chevy Tahoe: Selling Like Gangbusters The jury is in regarding the recently released big SUVs from General Motors: they are an overwhelming success story. The Chevy Tahoe along with its GMC Yukon and Cadillac Escalade siblings are bringing in big gains for GM. Just in time too as the automaker pares excess capacity, closes plants, and lays off tens of thousands of workers. So, what is it about the Tahoe that is stimulating sales? Everything! Just what is it about the new Tahoe that is bringing in the customers? With sales up nearly 50% over the previous year’s model there has to be something that sets the big SUV apart from its predecessor. In fact, everything has changed with the Tahoe as it is an all new model: 2007 Hyundai Entourage: The Minivan Wars Heat Up It was only a matter of time before they entered the minivan fray and after several false starts the on again and off again Hyundai minivan appears to be on once again. Hyundai is targeting a market it has long sidestepped and it appears that a long wheelbase version of the Kia Sedona will soon be sold in the US as a Hyundai Entourage. The minivan wars are heating up again even as one competitor exits the market and another also gives serious consideration to abandoning the minivan segment. Is there an Entourage in your future? Read on for all the details and then decide. Two decades ago, Hyundai entered the North American market with its $3600 Excel Pony. This cheaply priced, cheaply built model set the tone for the new importer and it wasn’t a good one at that. Low quality went arm and arm with the low price, but consumers still bought Hyundais anyway as a new Excel compared favorably with prices for late model used cars of that era. Many owners shrugged off the cheap plastics and quality problems, citing that the Pony gave them something they never had before: a brand new car. Ford To Exit The Minivan Market? All the car blogs lately have been speculating on the direction that the Ford Motor Company is going to take in the wake of declining sales and stiff competition. We know that Ford has too much capacity and we know that the company will be closing some key plants and laying off an as yet to be determined number of employees. What hadn’t been clear is which models would be cut from the line up. Now, it appears that Ford will exit the lucrative minivan market. That’s right, Ford apparently will stick with building cars, trucks, and SUVs, and leave the minivan market to the other players. Ever since the Chrysler Corporation invented the minivan market back in the early 1980s with its line of “K-car” derived minivans – the Dodge Caravan, Plymouth Voyager, and the Chrysler Town & Country – Ford has been playing catch up. Indeed, a series of forgettable “star” named minivans were served up by Ford and summarily rejected by consumers: the Aerostar, Windstar, and the Freestar. Later, both Honda and Toyota brought out their own entries and Ford, along with Chevrolet found themselves trailing badly in an overcrowded segment. Indeed, several GM divisions sell minivans, as does Kia and Nissan, making the market especially tight. 2009 Buick Enclave: From Concept To Reality General Motors has been taking a beating for over a year now due to sales dips, make/model image problems, and labor and legacy issues. Truly, if there was a better time to jumpstart the company, I don’t know what it would be. Fortunately, someone in GM’s walnut-trimmed boardroom is getting the message: build what we want and we will buy it. The Buick Enclave, a luxury SUV making the rounds of the U.S. auto shows, appears to be one such winner. I realize that I am in the minority of car critics, but I think that Buick is on the right track. The Lucerne, a full sized car based on the Cadillac DTS, is a beauty and Buick’s next newest model, the mid sized Lacrosse, is another attractive looking car. Still, Buick’s remaining fleet has been scaled back with only two SUVs and one crossover vehicle, the Terraza, left. At times it isn’t clear what plans GM has for its “near luxury” division, but if the Enclave is one example, then Buick has a promising future. Gmc To Launch All New Pick Ups Early Published reports are indicating that General Motors will move up the production of their updated line of GMC and Chevrolet pick up trucks by three months with the new models making their debut in October 2006. Some are calling this move an act of desperation on the part of GM which has been socked by extensive criticism over its product line, while others are hailing it as a bold, strategic initiative. Regardless, this is an unusual move for the world’s number one automaker, one that could help the company get back on its feet. Let’s take a look at the new trucks and what they will offer to you, the consumer. High gas prices, quality problems, and a perception that the company offers products that no one wants has been plaguing General Motors for much of the past year. With plant closures coming, layoffs pending, and market share decreasing, little good news has been focused on “the general” by the automobile press. Fortunately, GM is battling back with fresh models set to be released including SUVs and trucks, which are the “bread and butter” vehicles of the company. Here is what you can expect to see when the new trucks enter the market in Autumn 2006: Selecting Your Tonneau Truck Cover You’ve seen them on pick up trucks everywhere: specially designed truck covers that are all the rage. In times past sporting a custom fitted cap over your truck’s bed was where it was the thing to do. Today, a truck tonneau cover is the way to go for many truck owners. The choices of covers are varied, the retailers who sell them are many. Selecting your tonneau truck cover isn’t rocket science but it pays to “go with what you know” when selecting yours. Let’s take a look at the different types of truck tonneau covers on the market. The most popular selling trucks in the USA for nearly three straight decades are Ford’s “F” series line of full size pick up trucks. Selling twice as many trucks as the nearest car, which is the Toyota Camry, this sales level clearly shows us that pick up trucks remain an important and vital part of the automotive landscape. Indeed, trucks from Ford, Chevrolet, GMC, Dodge, Toyota, Honda, Nissan, and many other manufacturers have filled our roads. Unlike trucks in the past which exclusively emphasized their towing and hauling attributes, trucks of today incorporate a third factor, passenger comfort, in the mix. Still, if you ask mostly anyone exactly what they do with their truck bed you are likely to gain a variety of answers. Most truck beds are used expressly for hauling stuff and depending on what is being hauled that typically determines how the bed is protected and or covered. Chevy Equinox And Land Rover Freelander The sport utility market continues to expand despite higher than normal gas prices. The reason? Because, these do-almost-everything-vehicles provide just what consumers want. Sure, sales are down right now, but they will recover as more economical vehicles enter the mix. SUVs carry people, haul stuff, pull stuff, can go off-roading [okay, maybe not the Equinox], provide superior handling than many cars, etc. Fortunately, not all are gas guzzlers either. Chevrolet’s Equinox and the Land Rover Freelander are two that come to mind. Let’s take a look at these two compact SUVs. Chevrolet Equinox – I like the looks of the Equinox, Chevy’s car-based SUV that is only slightly smaller than the mid-size TrailBlazer. By car-based I mean a vehicle that handles and drives more like a car and is actually built on a car platform [like the Ford Escape and Toyota RAV4, for example]. This means that the Equinox is built chiefly for the road, so if you want an off road experience you would need to opt for the TrailBlazer or get the Freelander. Okay, I digress. How To Install Truck Running Boards If you are a pick up truck or SUV owner, one of the most popular accessories for these types of vehicles are running boards. Running boards are particularly useful as they allow easier access to your truck’s cabin in addition to simply “lookin’ good”. You can outfit your vehicle yourself with running boards by following three simple steps. Depending on the brand of running board you purchase, the procedures involved may vary somewhat. Lund running boards are industry hot sellers and the company helps make installation a breeze by outlining how to get the job done: Exhaust Systems For The Hobbyist There are exhaust systems and then there are exhaust systems. Your vehicle’s exhaust system does everything that it needs to do to keep your car performing properly as well as to protect the environment safe from harmful pollutants. When it is working properly, that is. Not every owner is satisfied with stock exhaust systems, particularly the hobbyist or recreationalist who uses his or her vehicle for leisurely pursuits. If you are a hobbyist and you want a system that performs well beyond what a stock exhaust system has to offer, then please read on for some important information. So, what is your sound preference? Say, what?! Yes, one of the attributes of a high quality performance exhaust system is finding one that brings out the sound that you want it to make. Generally, there are three types of exhaust systems sounds you can choose from. Gibson Exhaust, a popular manufacturer of performance exhaust systems breaks it down as follows: Truck Covers For A Snug Fit Much like car covers, a high quality custom fitted truck cover can protect your pick up truck from a whole cluster of nasty insults to your truck’s body. Even if you park your truck in a garage and give it regular washes and polishes, your finish can soon diminish and your truck quickly show its age without the added benefit of using a truck cover. Let’s take a look at some of the advantages of owning a truck cover and what you need to look for when considering purchasing a high quality product. When you choose your truck cover, you will soon discover that even just one manufacturer can make several assorted covers for the same truck model. Simple covers offer partial protection from the elements while first-rate truck covers offer far-reaching protection. 2007 Gmc Yukon: Still Too Much? I realize I may be stepping on some toes, but please hear me out. The upcoming, new from the ground up, GMC Yukon is certain to be perceived by some as being too much…in size, that is. With fuel prices at an all time high and consumer sentiment shifting to smaller vehicles will the GMC Yukon be considered outdated even before it hits showroom floors in Spring 2006? Let’s take a look at many of the changes planned for the all new Yukon and then you can decide for yourself. General Motors has been itching to release the Yukon and a host of other full sized GMC/Chevrolet models to the public as soon as possible. Some find this odd, particularly since fuel prices are high and demand for large vehicles is on the decline. Still, there is good reason why GM wants you to take a closer look at upcoming offerings including the 2007 GMC Yukon, their big SUV: 2006 Jeep Commander: 7 Passenger Trail Trekker Jeep has finally done it. A 7 passenger trail rated Jeep is now available at a dealer near you. Long a maker of manly SUVs, the Commander holds true to form as it can easily be taken off road as well as down the highway. Unlike more pedestrian models, the Commander looks every bit the rugged vehicle that it is. For Jeep fans who need the extra room the Commander offers space not available in any Jeep since the Wagoneer was retired a generation ago. Let’s take a look at the 2006 Jeep Commander, the focus of this review. So, why build a seven passenger Jeep? To give customers a choice, that’s why. With existing models able to carry only five passengers or less, the Commander meets the demand for a larger model. Instead of losing sales to GM or Ford, Jeep is now able to offer a vehicle that will keep customers from leaving for bigger and roomier models. 2006 Acura Mdx: Luxury With A View You have to love the marketing guys. After all of the work of the design team, a new vehicle must pass through several rigorous channels including engineering, safety, performance, quality, durability, craftsmanship, government inspections, and management clearance, before even the first rivet is drilled or body panel painted. After all is said and done, the marketers get their chance to pitch the final product. In one word the MDX has been defined by these very same marketers: benchmark. Does the MDX live up to this all important designation? Acura would like for you to think so. Let’s take a look at Acura’s 7 passenger luxury SUV to see if it truly does rise to the level of category leader. The marketplace is flooded with SUVs. Despite high gas prices, the demand for high profile vehicles continues to remain strong, particularly in the sub-behemoth category which is anything smaller than an Expedition or a Tahoe. Still, some of these less imposing models are fuel eaters too, equipped with V8 engines and all the latest gadgetry. If you want to realize fuel savings in an SUV a compact Ford Escape Hybrid is just about your only choice, plus a new Lexus model just now hitting showrooms. 2006 Subaru B9 Tribeca: Ugly Or Not? Okay, Subaru fans…listen up! Do you think that the all new B9 Tribeca is a beautiful vehicle or is it an ugly duckling? As for me, I have mixed feelings. This particular SUV certainly doesn’t look like any other Subaru, nor does it easily get confused with any other SUV on the market. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder; let’s take a look at what sets the B9 Tribeca apart from the pack. The first time I saw Subaru’s new entry up close I first thought it was Porsche’s Cayenne. No, the vehicles don’t look alike, but the B9 Tribeca evoked a similar response for me: like the Cayenne, it represents a major departure from all other models. For example, the B9 Tribeca offers the following: 2006 Honda Element: Unique Freak? I admit it. When I saw my first Honda Element a few years back I thought it was one of the most hideous looking vehicles on the planet. Then I saw the Scion xA and Scion xB, so I quickly relegated the Element to third place. I confess that my earlier feelings about the Element have changed, possibly because I see so many of them on the road these days and perhaps because I see its usefulness. No matter, the Honda Element is a unique looking vehicle and it is a lot less freakish than what you or I may think. Freedom from convention. That is the saying on Honda’s web site when it comes to labeling the Element. In many ways, this marketing slogan is true. Who says that any vehicle has to conform to what you expect? True, past radical models failed miserably. The Ford Edsel and VW Thing are two that come to mind. Yet, the times are different and a truly “rad” look is in. Real in, if you know what I mean. France’s Troubles: Learning from US I know that there are some people who are celebrating France’s recent troubles with delicious glee. I guess I can understand how they feel, given France’s ongoing hypocrisy concerning the Iraq War [hmmm…whose hand is in that oil-for-food cookie jar?] and the all too common and world renowned snooty attitude displayed by many Francophiles toward outsiders. Time for you to eat some humble pie, France. Your troubles are upon you but they can be resolved. Guess what? You have to look at America’s example for your solution. I am not smiling…okay, maybe just a bit. So, there you have it. France is in a pickle and they aren’t quite sure why. I have three Latin words for the French to consider: Muhammad Cartoon & Free Speech Many in the Muslim community are in an uproar over a Muhammad cartoon appearing in newspapers across Europe. One such Muhammad cartoon depicts the Islamic prophet wearing a turban containing a bomb. If you write for a living, you probably have made judgment calls regarding what you will write and how that information will be conveyed. Definitely, I am of the “free speech” mind, but I must tell you that there are enough fanatics in this world who would seek the death of others in the name of their beliefs. While I enjoy covering information of a religious nature I am loathe to printing or republishing anything that offends someone’s religion, no matter how much I may disagree with it. Traveling Abroad: Heeding U.S. Travel Warnings Traveling abroad presents certain risks for Americans, especially in light of the recent bombings in London, England. For the most part, terrorists are the problem, although drug, gang, and criminal activities can also be a factor. In addition, local health conditions can be a separate problem. Thankfully, the U.S. State Department regularly issues and updates Consular Information Sheets for every country in the world. These sheets give valuable information to travelers, information you must know before you take your next trip. As mentioned, the Consular Information Sheets provide important information for travelers. You can also check the State Department's Current Travel Warning list to see which nations the U.S. government encourages Americans to avoid altogether. Currently, the following countries are listed: Assorted Tips For Business Travelers Our web community of business flight attendants is always thinking of ways to make traveling easier. You have to when your job takes you away from home base for several weeks at a time! The following tips are for business as well as leisure travelers. 1. Ring Around the Collar Dirty neck rings around shirt or blouse collars can be removed by putting shampoo on them. Rub the shampoo in as if you were washing your hair. Shampoo is specifically made to remove body oils the "ingredient" of neck rings. Old Barney -- A Visit to Barnegat Light, New Jersey Barnegat Light, NJ is the home to "Old Barney" a historic lighthouse located at the northern tip of Long Beach Island. Long Beach Island, or "LBI" as the vacationing folks like to say, is a narrow island nearly twenty miles long and six miles at sea off the coast of Ocean County, NJ. The lighthouse is a destination in and of itself, if lighthouses are something that you like. Like all lighthouses, this one has distinctive markings: the top half is red and the bottom half is white. Built in 1859, the current lighthouse is the second one for that site. The original, constructed in 1824, was in disrepair and sorely in need of being replaced. Thus, the present lighthouse -- fondly called Old Barney -- was constructed. Teterboro, New Jersey: A General Aviation Town Tiny Teterboro, New Jersey is situated just south of Hackensack at the edge of the Meadowlands only twelve miles from midtown Manhattan. This Bergen County borough is mostly known for its airport, as the residential properties in the town are few. Indeed, recent census figures put the town’s population at just 18 souls! Meanwhile, business dominates the town and the airport, named for the town, is the chief job generator in the town as well as in surrounding communities. At just over one square mile, Teterboro certainly is easily missed. Bordered by state highways 46 to the north and 17 to the west, the town would certainly be overlooked unless you failed to notice the regular flow of general aviation traffic entering and leaving the airport. Indeed, Teterboro Airport {TEB} ranks as one of the busiest general aviation airports in the country serving Piper and Cessna owners all the way up to Gulfstream V charter operators. Nc Railroad Museum Enthralls Kids Young & Old Alike Situated in the heart of central North Carolina along the border of Wake and Chatham counties, just thirty minutes south of Raleigh, is the North Carolina Railroad Museum / New Hope Valley Railway. Featuring steam and diesel locomotives as well as various boxcars, flatcars, and the like, the museum / railway has been entertaining train fans at its rural Bonsal location since 1981. Take a trip down the old railroad line with me and experience a little bit of American train history! Since I was a boy I have been enamored by trains -- steam engines, diesels, bullet trains and even subways. My family feels the same way; we marvel at the sight of a steam locomotive hissing and wheezing its way clackety-clack down the tracks, imagining that we, too, are taking a trip across this great nation of our's. New Bern, Nc: History At Its Finest When traveling through the South, certain destinations such as Charleston and Savannah have strong appeal to many as they are rich in history and warmth. In North Carolina, New Bern has a similar appeal and it is just now being "discovered" by visitors as a terrific destination in itself. See why this birthplace of North Carolina holds such a strong interest for visitors. In 1710, New Bern was settled by German and Swiss adventurers from Bern, Switzerland. During colonial times, the city acted as the first capitol for the North Carolina colony. Thus, much of what is of strong historical significance for the city can be found within three districts dotting New Bern. Indeed, over 150 sites are listed with the National Register of Historic Places including many homes, stores, and churches. North Carolina's Outer Banks Jutting into the Atlantic Ocean, North Carolina's Outer Banks offer visitors plenty of sand, history, and recreational activities. This 100 mile long group of islands welcomed the first European settlers, witnessed mankind's first winged flight, and is often the first place that hurricanes visit as they run up the east coast of the United States. Read on to see what makes the Outer Banks the first rate resort that it is. As barrier islands, the Outer Banks are exposed to the whims of the Atlantic Ocean. Sand is pulled out and tossed away while the islands make a gradual westward move of approximately one to two feet per year. Indeed, many of the shipwrecks that took place several hundred years ago right off shore would be as much as a mile further out into the Atlantic today if they happened in the same spot. Pennsylvania Dutch Country Traveling to Pennsylania Dutch Country in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, is somewhat like taking a trip back in time. Long inhabited by the Amish who are actually Germans, the area is checkered by family farms where the men still work with horse and plow, the women bake everything from scratch, and families get around by horse drawn carriage. While there, you can purchase homemade goods including jellies and jams; blankets and pillows; wood carvings; handmade furniture; outdoor items including birdhouses; and so much more. Try the fudge... YUM! Sit down for a traditional Amish meal served family style. You will share a long table with complete strangers while being waited upon by pretty maidens. Savor the tender meats, homemade noodles, gravy laden mashed potatoes, and breads and pies that will be part of your dining experience. Nj Towns: What's In A Name? When you think of "Paramus" do you automatically think, "shopping malls?" If you do, you are not alone. On a recent trip to the west coast, I was asked, "where in New Jersey do you live?" When I mentioned near Paramus, the person nodded her head in recognition. She knew that the town was a shopping mecca on the east coast. Paramus' origins and even recent history, belie the shopping mecca label. As recently as the 1960s, the borough was dotted with farmland; indeed Paramus is derived from the Lenni Lenape name Perampsus, meaning: "where there is worthwhile or fertile land." Where there was fertile land, maize or corn was grown and wild turkeys were also found in abundance. Thus, the meaning of Paramus . . . "A fertile land where corn was grown attracting wild turkeys". For kicks, go to the Paramus Park Mall and observe the Indian riding the turkey [Route 17 entrance near Macy's]. It looks odd to the visitor, but with your new knowledge of Paramus' name origin, it explains much. Paramus, New Jersey: Retailing Paradise! Situated in the heart of Bergen County, New Jersey at the crossroads of state highways 4 and 17 is the town of Paramus, home to some 30,000 residents, but also home to one of the largest retail meccas in the world. Let’s take a look at Paramus and what has made this town such a popular destination for shoppers. Convenience – Nearly one million people live in Bergen County, but draw a 75 mile radius with Paramus at the center of it and the figure mushrooms to over 20 million people! Yes, all of northern and central New Jersey, New York City, southern New York State and parts of Long Island and Connecticut fall within this circle. That makes for a lot of potential shoppers in such a compact area. Go To Guatemala! Does Mayan culture pique your interest? Do you want to see a live volcano? Does visiting a place called the Land of Eternal Spring interest you? If so, go to Guatemala! Nestled in Central America, Guatemala is a land with an ancient history and an intriguing present. Long ruled by the Mayans, this people group suddenly died off well before the Spaniards conquered the land. Still, you see the "Mayan look" in the faces of many of the people. Haledon, New Jersey: A Renaissance In The Making? Not every small town in America can live up to a realtor’s dream of providing top notch schools, new housing, well kept streets, and abundant recreational opportunities. Where Haledon, New Jersey currently lacks in refinement, it offsets some of this with its sense of history as well as opportunity. Read on to find out more about this small Passaic County borough. On the western border of the city of Paterson in northern New Jersey lies a gritty town, Haledon, home to more than 8400 residents compacted into an aging one square mile borough. As a working class community, the town has long served as a bedroom community for blue collar workers who skillfully manned the textile mills that dotted the town and surrounding communities for well over a century. Hackensack, New Jersey: 300 Years Of Modern History The county seat for Bergen County, New Jersey is the small, bustling city of Hackensack. Nearly 43,000 people call the 4.6 square mile city their home and, in addition to being a seat of government, it is also an important retailing and business center. The region of New Jersey that Hackensack occupies today was long the home of the Lenni Lenape native peoples. The Achkinheshcky or Hackensack tribe populated the area and coexisted peacefully with Dutch settlers who arrived in 1639 and established a trading post there. By 1688, the area came under the control of the British who established the town of New Barbadoes. At one point during the Revolutionary War, General Washington had his headquarters in Hackensack and the region was at times the epicenter between battling British and American forces. The name Hackensack meaning -- mouth of water -- was not officially chartered until 1921. Will Delta Sell AirElite? Not many people outside of the airline industry know this, but Delta Airline owns and operates a lucrative division of private jets. Delta AirElite, as it is known, is the single bright spot in an otherwise dark business environment for this U.S. legacy carrier. Some are speculating that Delta should sell its AirElite business to raise funds and turn around the carrier, but I have another more radical take on things that I believe should be considered instead. Established in 1984, Delta AirElite has been steadily growing and making money for Delta. While the airline part of the company is rapidly and continually hemorrhaging cash, AirElite continues to make money and grow. Indeed, with a fleet of sought after business jets in its portfolio including the Challenger 300, Gulfstream IV-SP, and Learjet 31A, AirElite is an attractive company for any potential suitor. Airlines of North America The airline industry is in a constant state of flux. In 2005, Trans Meridian Airlines quit doing business while EOS Airlines and Maxjet Airways took to the skies. By early 2006, Independence Air quit flying and Virgin America announced that they were seeking U.S. government approval in hopes of taking their first flight. Beyond the U.S. borders, the Mexican airline industry is in the process of being revolutionized as the Mexican government divests itself of interest in two leading carriers. With this particular decision a handful of new carriers are set to take off south of the U.S. border. To keep track of the all the changes involves a ton of work, but I've done the hard work for you. The following list contains all of the current airlines serving the Canada, the United States, and Mexico. Stay tuned…more air carriers are certain to follow while some existing carriers may call it quits! How many names do you recognize? Some carriers are strictly charter operators while others fly regionally. Still others are very small operators of Cessna aircraft, not what you might consider “airline” aircraft, but in the eyes of the Federal Aviation Administration they are: Remember Peoplexpress? I got my start working in the flying industry while attending Ramapo College of New Jersey in the early 1980s. At that school, they had posted an opportunity to work as a "co-op" student for an airline based at EWR. PEOPLExpress Airlines was the name and they needed students to handle reservations at their Haynes Avenue facility, which was really the UAL building. For $5.00 per hour I took the bait and worked from February to August 1984. The job was tedious, the phone system antiquated, the company was a calamity. Still, it was fun and I enjoyed my occassional trips over to the old hangar to watch aircraft take off. Bad Airline Food - Now This?! Airline food has long been the scourge of the industry. Literally! With customer expectations low, few expect that the meal they are served onboard an airliner will rise to the level of even a family style restaurant. On the other hand, corporate jet catering is a whole different animal. With delectable entrees, delightful soups, outstanding appetizers and snacks, and the most decadent desserts imaginable, the passenger on a private jet expects [and pays for!] food akin to a five star performance. Additional Start Up Airlines Are Looming Several months ago, in a related article, I made mention of two start up air carriers for the US market. Since then, both EOS Airlines and Maxjet Airways have taken flight and are successfully serving their passengers and making plans for future expansion. Beyond these two carriers, additional carriers are waiting to take their first flights. Let's take a look at some leading contenders. Fly First Class -- This Florida based air carrier is planning to use Wilmington, NC as its base. With flights to Bermuda and London planned, the airline -- true to its name -- will offer only one level of service, first class. Expected first flight is sometime during the second quarter of 2006. Leading Private Jet Charter Operators Flying with the airlines can be a time consuming as well as risky proposition for businessmen as well as for people of wealth. If you absolutely, positively must get somewhere fast you are putting your trust in a system that is overcrowded, inconvenient, and failing when you fly with the airlines. What are your options? Rent or lease a private jet. The following list features some of the leading private jet charter operators in the U.S. Atlantic Aviation Flight Services Jet Aviation Sold To Permira Funds Jet Aviation has announced that they have been sold, pending antitrust clearance, to the Permira Funds a leading international private equity specialist. Ending several years of speculation, the Zurich based operator of business jet services has finally accomplished what had long been expected: the sale of the Hirschmann family business to outsiders. As early as 2000 the sale of Jet Aviation had been expected by employees as well as by industry insiders. Indeed, Jet Aviation management had been marketed openly throughout 2001 by Goldman Sachs, but the sale was cancelled when a suitable buyer was not found and the terrorist attacks put a further drag on an already downturning economy. Still, rumors of the sale of the company persisted and heated up recently with speculation that one of Warren Buffet's companies, i.e., Gulfstream Aerospace, may have been interested in the company's maintenance facilities. Flight Safety: Ensuring That Your Next Flight Is A Safe One If you have ever flown you likely are aware of several government organizations dedicated to the oversight of the aviation industry. Alphabet soup sounding names such as the FAA, DOT, and NSTB are often mentioned, but each organization has a distinct role in ensuring passenger safety. Let’s take a look at three federal agencies tasked with ensuring that your next flight is a safe one. Federal Aviation Administration – The Federal Aviation Administration, or FAA, is responsible for the safety of civil aviation. According to their web site [1], the FAA is tasked with the following responsibilities: Flight Coordinator Job Sites Finding work as an aircraft flight coordinator typically involves submitting your resume directly to companies that may be hiring. Still, it can be a laborious process trying to track down and find those companies that are hiring. On the other hand, there are several web sites on the internet that list flight coordinator jobs from time to time. No, there aren’t an abundance of jobs available, but if you know where to look, you can make the process easier on yourself. Aviation Employment Board – A free site, this board lists job opportunities across the spectrum of business and commercial aviation. Registration is free and you can post your resume for free as well. Visit www.aviationemploymentboard.net for more information. Eos Airlines’ $6500 Roundtrip Airfare This just in: EOS Airlines, an upstart air carrier operating flights between New York’s JFK Airport and London’s Stanstead Airport has slashed their fares. For just $5000 round trip passengers can now fly the premium jet carrier and save a bundle. It gets even better than this: purchase one round trip ticket and a companion can fly for free; restrictions apply. Has the airline world gone crazy, or is EOS onto something? Read on for all the amazing details. On October 25, 2005, EOS Airlines’ “official” inaugural flight took off one week after a series of pre-inaugural flights. Directed toward the business traveler, EOS operates custom outfitted Boeing 757 aircraft with seating for just 48 passengers. EOS, which means “Greek goddess of the dawn”, is offering a level of service unlike any other in the industry. Corporate Jets: Taking Flight! Flying on a 40 million dollar corporate jet is an experience like none other. Being attended to by a skilled corporate flight attendant in the opulent splendor of your luxuriously appointed cabin is something that you will not soon forget. Are you interested in leasing or renting a private jet? If so, the following information will help you in your quest. Safe flying! Most people get their first taste of private jet flying by chartering a flight. Businesses, celebrities, and private individuals and families all peruse this service. You can too and the following list features some of the companies willing and able to provide this type of service for you: Wonderful Wildwood, New Jersey The Jersey Shore boasts some of the most crowded vacation destinations going. However, one popular resort, The Wildwoods, is truly a happening place and well worth the trip despite the crowds. Much of this venerable beach community took off in the 1950s with the opening up of the Garden State Parkway and the Atlantic City Expressway. Many of the hotels still gracing the area still reflect that fifties look: tail fins, big hair, Elvis, and more. Old hotels with a bit of tackiness to be sure, but still a fun place to check out. 9 North Carolina Beach Destinations! Summer brings with it warmth and high humidity. The season also offers the opportunity for heat weary folks to escape to the mountains or beaches for a well deserved rest. In North Carolina, there are several beach destinations worth visiting; nine top sites are featured here. 1. The Outer Banks -- Perhaps the most well known of all the beaches in the Carolinas, the Outer Banks offers much history as well as attractive beaches. You can visit the spot where the Wright Brothers first took flight in Kill Devil Hills as well as the first European settlement on Roanoke Island. Welcome to Cyber Monday! Well, I learned something new this past weekend. Specifically, the Monday following Thanksgiving weekend is one of the busiest days for online retailers. Dubbed “Cyber Monday” by some, online merchants track one of the largest one day spikes in sales on this particular day much like “brick and mortar” purveyors experience with “Black Friday” the day that follows Thanksgiving. It is the Christmas shopping season…happy Cyber Monday to you! According to Shop.org, an association of online retailers, more than 75% of their members reported a significant surge in traffic on the Monday following the extended Thanksgiving weekend in 2004. Shop.org gives the following reasons for the surge: Black Friday Is Coming! A day is soon coming that some folks are looking at with dread, for others in eager anticipation, while the rest of us are scratching our heads not knowing what to make of it. So, what am I talking about? Why, Black Friday, the day immediately following Thanksgiving Day in the US. So, why so black and why on a Friday? Traditionally, the day after Thanksgiving used to mean one thing for retailers: it was the first day in the lengthy retailing calendar where a store could make enough money [move merchandise] to see yearly losses [for bookkeeping purposes represented by the color red] turn into gains [represented by the color black]. Supposedly, all the sales completed throughout the year were done at a loss until that one big day, Black Friday, whereby enough merchandise is sold to reverse course and to begin to turn a profit for the year. What Gramps Really Wants For Christmas! Trying to find that perfect gift for Grandpa can certainly be a difficult task. Your Gramps has seen it all, tried everything, and is long past the age of following his youthful pursuits. Still, the old man has a life and one that can certainly be enriched by one of the following gift ideas I have listed for you. Go ahead and make an old man happy. Goodness knows he has been grumpy for way too long! 1. Hearing Aid -- That’s right, Gramps hasn’t been able to hear much lately and what he does hear he changes around. Give the gift that keeps on hearing and he’ll be very grateful. Opt for the fashionable model that sticks outside of his ear canal and comes in your choice of invigorating colors: rad red, bionic blue, glittery green, or psychedelic orange. What Gals Really Want For Christmas! Okay, guys: listen up! I am here to tell you what women want for Christmas. You probably already know it, but you don’t understand it. What am I saying? Well, those little ads that have been mysteriously popping up on your dresser, on your workbench, or plastered to the windshield of your truck did not get there by accident. Somebody who wants you to pay close attention to what she really wants put it there. You don’t think the wind blew it there do you? Oh, please! Let’s go down the list and find out what your lady really wants for Christmas. I abbreviated everything for clarity and to be concise. That means the 27 items she really wants are condensed to just five. Get it? 1. Jewelry – You had to ask? What woman doesn’t want something shiny to wear on her fingers, around her neck, her wrist, her anklet, her belly button…Okay, I’m not talking custom jewelry either. I’m talking about something that will retain its shine in all weather conditions and can be counted in the number of karats it possesses. You can count on it setting you back at least through the following June, probably as late as Thanksgiving… Christmas Shopping: Bargains For You! This Christmas season promises to be one filled with exceptional sales and across the board bargains for eager shoppers. With fuel prices running high, interest rates climbing, and consumer sentiment mixed, merchants know that they must slash prices in order to move merchandise. Let’s take a look at some of the types of sales certain to greet price conscious shoppers this holiday season. Early Bird/Late Night Bargains – Well before Thanksgiving some retailers are already opening early or staying open late in order to accommodate shoppers. A big lure: Get ten percent back/off of select purchases over $50. Depending on the details of the offer, you can either apply savings to your current purchase or as credit toward future purchases. Variations of this lure include incremental rewards, i.e. $15 off of purchases of $75 or more, $20 off of purchases of $100 or more, etc. Read the fine print as exceptions do apply! Combating Christmas Shopping Stress Anne Gadsden handles Christmas shopping the "new fashioned" way. She puts on a CD of classical music such as Pachelbel's Canon in D, logs on to the internet, and starts surfing. The Newark mother of three says, "I've already done the store thing and now its time for me to get gifts for family members who don't live in New Jersey. I visit Amazon and Buy.com; between the two companies I usually find something that I need. Besides, shipping is free if I spend at least $25 and that isn't hard to do!" Tasha Crimson shops early. Very early. "I shop all summer long starting when we go to the shore after July 4th all the way up to Labor Day. That's when I'm done. I don't have to put up with the hassles, I shop at my own speed, and I don't have to freeze as I run from my car to the store!," the East Orange grandmother of eight chuckled. What Guys Really Want For Christmas! Okay, ladies: listen up! I am here to tell you what men want for Christmas. It isn’t cologne and it isn’t some awful looking tie. Please! It could be NFL playoff tickets, but we know that prices for them are through the roof. Instead, us guys want stuff that is both useful and practical something we won’t pretend to like and hide away in our closets, but stuff that we will use all the time. I’ve made a list to make it easy on you as I know how hard it can be for us guys to communicate to our gals. 1. NFL Tickets!!! No, wait! You can go to eBay and get “discounted” tickets for a mid-January meeting between the Giants and some other team for a lot less than what you’ll pay through a neighborhood scalper. How many fans do you think will put up with ten degree Meadowlands cold on a January day to see the Giants. Oh, yeah, I forgot: plenty. Tickets are likely to go for one or two thousand a piece! Mauled At The Mall! I love shopping. Online, that is. No crowds at the malls and certainly no jostling for a parking space. Why would anyone want to traverse crowded New Jersey streets only to go to an equally crowded mall staffed by rude sales staff? Okay, I'm exaggerating. There are plenty of nice people working at the malls and the internet doesn't give you the "touchy-feely" you can get at a store by examining a product up close and personal, but with so many nice downtown shopping areas in New Jersey why not visit one of these instead? The Perfect Christmas Gift I suppose there is no such thing as the imperfect Christmas gift, but I am sure that there are some gifts that are less desirably received than others. Let's take a look at the "Personal Trimmer." Every time I hear of one of these items or see it in the store I think, "nose hair trimmer." Hey, there is no way of getting around it: if you give this gift you are telling the recipient that the strand of hair hanging out of their left nostril is unsightly. Or, since the product is also marketed for the ears, you've noticed a bit 'o fuzz on their earlobes. How to Attract Birds to Your Backyard Paradise For Less Than $100 Like many Americans, you may find bird watching to be a fascinating hobby. At the same time, perhaps you wonder how you can attract regular visitors to your yard without busting the bank by purchasing expensive foliage, feeders, and food. Here are some tips toward helping you establish a backyard paradise that is certain to welcome birds without draining your wallet. 1. Purchase a Birdbath. Prices for birdbaths can run anywhere from 10 dollars for the plastic model to well into the hundreds of dollars for the sculpted concrete model with lights and a waterfall. Birds are attracted to water, the glitter of sunlight will catch their eyes and bring them flying in. So, the plastic one works as well as the expensive one. If you must have a better model, check out the yard sales in your neighborhood for a good used birdbath. Amount budgeted: $10. Relentless Internet Marketing The internet is a fantastic place to promote your skills and accomplishments. You can pay a large sum of money by coming up with banner ad or pay per click plans to “get the word out” or you can go the budget way and market yourself smartly without spending nary a dime. I’ll leave the money plans for another article, instead let’s take a look at smart ways for you to promote you or your product online for little or no money! Who said you have to have a marketing budget to promote yourself? Well, many companies do, but they are in the business to sell you something [namely, their marketing plan]. If you have the money to spend on marketing then go for it. If not, then you must examine cost effective ways to get your name out there. Here are some of my personal favorites: PHPBB: You Can Simplify the Set Up Process! In several previous articles I mentioned my having downloaded and installed the fantastic PHPBB open source forum. I shared with readers the lengthy and tedious process of selecting the right mirror, downloading the files to my computer, and following all the long, drawn out, and complicated set up steps. Fortunately, what was once a procedure that took the better part of a day can now take 30 minutes or less to complete! Let’s take a look how you can shorten the entire set up process and start benefiting from this free, popular program. When I set up my first two PHPBB forums in June 2005, I did so under duress. Just days earlier, my then message board host – EZBoard – had their entire system shut down by hackers. Or so they claimed. My two popular sites, the Aviation Employment Board and the Corporate Flight Attendant Community were left in the dark as EZBoard’s system rendered the sites virtually inoperable. With a repair promised, but several weeks away, I decided that I needed to quickly move away from EZBoard and over to a forum where I could exercise full control. Enter PHPBB. PHPBB2: Selecting the Correct Update In my previous articles about PHPBB2 I shared with readers my experience in shifting over to this type of software and I also listed some of my favorite mods and styles. If you already have downloaded PHPBB2 and are running it on your computer you have a great piece of open source software at your finger tips. As with any program you must keep it up to date. Let’s take a look at some important things to consider in keeping your program current. First of all, the best thing you can do is to subscribe to the opt-in mailing list for notification of any updates. You must subscribe as no one will automatically tell you your site is out of date although your administration panel will give that information to you. To opt-in please visit www.phpbb.com to subscribe. Phpbb2: A Tapestry Of World Languages Several of my related articles about PHPBB2, the open source program that helps webmasters create and maintain internet forums, touched on many of the technical aspects of the program. What you may not know is that PHPBB2 has a worldwide audience with the potential to reach more than half of the world’s population in their native language. Chalk it up to a combination of expert programmers and wonderful translators who have made this feat a reality. Without their hard work, the software’s reach would be quite limited. Let’s take a look at how translators have expanded PHPBB2 to the far corners of our world. As with any software program, expanding it beyond one’s native language presents its own special challenges. Not only must you write the code correctly, but you must translate it into various world languages, many of which are distinctly different from others. Phpbb2: My Favorite Mods I mentioned in a previous article about all the ins and outs of using PHPBB2, an open source forum. Although it does have some quirks about it, the program is free and with a little help from the PHPBB community, not impossible to install even for the novice. The program you will upload, however, is fairly basic in nature therefore modifications [or, mods as some prefer to call them] can be useful to install. I have found several favorites that have worked rather well for me. Now, I am plan on sharing that information with you! Chat – What forum isn’t complete without a chat room. PHPBB2, for one. Yes, you have to install one yourself but the IRQ chat add-on is certainly worth it and it works much better than some that I have seen on sites that contain this feature. EZBoard is one such site that comes to mind. Phpbb2: All It Can Be? Please allow me to start off and say that I am very happy to run PHP software on my computer. Specifically, the bulletin boards developed by PHPBB2 [an open source program] works head and shoulders above the EZBoard system I gave up on several months earlier. Still, it has its own special challenges that only a regular user or administrator can appreciate. If you are considering starting your own message board community please read on for some homespun advice on how to make PHPBB2 work best for you. On Memorial Day 2005 I had a rude awakening. Although a national holiday here in the U.S. I was taking advantage of that day to catch up on some much needed behind the scenes work. You see, when you work for yourself a holiday just isn’t the same thing. It ends up being a day where your phone isn’t likely to ring all that much, thereby making it a better opportunity to catch up on all the little niggling details of operating a business, like paying bills and bookkeeping. Okay, I digress. The Demise Of Ezboard For years, EZBoard was a community that offered relatively cheap and easy to maintain forums for managers. Virtually anyone could register, design, and layout a site and invite their friends to participate. Indeed, some of the largest forums on the internet are built upon EZBoard. Unfortunately, a recent system-wide hacking attack has destroyed the company's reputation and sent many managers packing. Let's look at the venerable community and the fatal flaw that has toppled the company from its perch. At one time EZBoard boasted over 14,000 web communities. Many were started by individuals seeking a discussion forum for their favorite topics, while others were started by business people such as myself. The reasons businesses were attracted to EZBoard were two-fold: Forum Essentials: Dress Up Your Site For The Holidays If you manage a message board community, a key to your site's success is the lively banter between members. Without conversation, your site will quickly die off. You can't police your forum and respond to every post, but there are a few things you can do as an administrator to get things moving again. Hold a contest. Yes, who doesn't like to win something, anything? You don't have to spend a lot of money and the prize can be as simple as a magazine subscription, free membership for one year to your site, or an electronic gift card for the lucky winner. Want to go big time? Find a merchant to sponsor a gift; in exchange for their donation give them free advertising on your site for an agreed period of time. 25 Fat, Juicy Keywords With the holiday season fast approaching and the all important new year sales blitz just around the corner, webmasters are preparing to cash in like never before to capture the greater part of the pay per click revenue spoils. AdSense has some new competition in Chitika and Yahoo’s Publishing Network is really taking off. The following 25 keywords I have identified as giving exceptionally larger than life payouts; adjust your site accordingly to pull in the greatest amount of cash over the next few months. Don’t expect me to share with you actual pay out amounts [they vary, anyway]; I did my homework so now do yours too! The following are 25 words followed by my comments: 99 High Paying Keywords: The Secret Is Out! Incorporating high paying keywords into your site is critical to maximizing your income. Who has the time to figure it all out? How much are you willing to pay for this type of information? The secret is out: Here are 99 keywords you can use with payouts averaging $2-$100 per click: 1. Structured settlements High Paying Lateral Keywords If you run AdSense on your site you know that some words pay more than others, much more in fact. More than likely you have also learned that terms like "structured settlements" and "mesothelioma" can produce incredibly high PPC revenue, if they show up on your site at all. Unfortunately hundreds of thousands of other webmasters are "on" to this practice judging by the number of sites created regularly to capitalize on the phenomenom. So, where does this leave you? Out in the cold? No, by going after "lateral" keywords and terms you can produce a site that is even more profitable than these other sites. I will show you how you can do just that. What do I mean by "high paying lateral keywords?" Essentially, these are words, or terms, that webmasters dismiss as not being relevant or are unrelated to certain high paying keywords. For instance, you know that the term "free adware" has a nice payout. You gear your article or page accordingly to have AdSense produce the lucrative ads and, instead, you come up with ads that are relevant but not big payers. Should you give up? No, of course not. Instead, research similar terms that can also serve up high paying ads and go with them. In this case the following could be considered: Search Engine Wars: Google Thumps Yahoo, Msn Well the score is in: Google has resoundingly thumped Yahoo and MSN in the ongoing search engine wars. I wouldn’t have believed it if I hadn’t read it myself; Google continues to grow in size and popularity while Yahoo and MSN continue to firm up their “also ran” positions. What does this mean for you? Plenty, especially if you are wasting your time with the other search engines. Yes, I am surprised. My previous statistics were evidently a bit outdated as I had the search engine war between the Big 3 Providers -- Google, Yahoo, and MSN -- running a tight 1-2-3. Indeed, it must have been early in 2005 the last time I bothered to look at the statistics, but at that time my stats showed that Google controlled 36% while Yahoo and MSN were running at 33% and 32% respectively. Yes, the statistics total to more than 100% since they include those people who use more than one search engine [in this case they are counted twice]. Domain Names: Still Paying Too Much? Are you still paying $25, $35, or more for a new domain name? If so, you are paying too much as domain name prices continue to drop. You can save money on new domain names; please read on to learn how you can find big savings. Avoid the Big Registrars – The priciest domain names are sold through the legendary and established domain name registries. Many have been charging their customers $25 or more for years, but you don’t have to pay that much! They want you to think they are “it” when it comes to registering your domain names; quite frankly, they aren’t “it!” Identity Theft: Stop It Now! You may be a victim of identity theft and not even know it. Thieves may have secured important information about you and are using it without you knowing what they are doing. By the time you discover their nasty deeds, much damage may have already been done. While you may not be held responsible for their antics, the aggravation and recurring pain you will go through in restoring your good name can be intense. Let’s take a look at some ways you can stop identity theft now. Protect your social security number. There are very few people in life who really need to know your social security number. Besides government entities and certain creditors, no one should be asking you for that information. If they do, politely refuse or instruct them to mail their request to you in writing. A Little Something Extra For Your Clients As a writer, editor, web designer, forum maven, etc. [boy, I sound multi-talented!] I try to give my clients a/k/a customers a little something extra whenever or wherever possible. No, not so that they take advantage of my kindness, rather to show that I go the extra mile for them. Hey, it is a competitive market out there and I don't want to grow complacent! So, exactly what am I talking about? Blogs. That's right, I enjoy blogging so much that I have decided to include a "blog option" as part of my web package for clients [new and existing] who want one during 2006. It doesn't cost me any money for the software, but it will cost me approximately one hour's time to set up each blog. Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8: On and Off Road Exhilaration Call it MOPAR madness or call it sheer, ingenious automotive marketing and engineering, but whatever you decide to call the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8, you must realize one thing: no production vehicle has effectively combined off road ruggedness with on road durability. Until the Grand Cherokee SRT8 came along that is. Yes, not since the GMC Typhoon has an SUV proven to be a highway dominator as well as an off road maven. However, the Jeep Cherokee SRT8 goes well beyond any 4x4 vehicle by delivering a versatile, pavement pounding, all-around SUV. The folks at Chrysler’s Street and Racing Technology (SRT) group could not leave well enough alone. From the Neon to the Viper and from the 300C to the Ram pickup truck, no model has been too sacred to receive a proper work over from the team. First it was a bevy of Dodge models, then it was the Chrysler 300C, but no Jeep model had yet been targeted for the group’s overhaul. The Grand Cherokee however was past due as fond memories of the GMC Typhoon likely played a part in the decision to inject “SRT steroids” into a widely acclaimed Jeep model. Indeed, the SRT group knew that 0 to 60 in five seconds with the Grand Cherokee would beat the Typhoon’s numbers by about four tenths of a second, easily making the Jeep model the all time leader on the road as it is already off the road. The Heart Pounding, Road Ripping Dodge Magnum SRT8 Thanks to the Chrysler Group’s relationship with Mercedes – both companies are owned by DaimlerChrysler – the automaker markets a successful group of full size, rear wheel drive cars powering the Dodge and Chrysler brands. Tapping Mercedes technology in the form of their suspensions, rear differentials, and automatic transmissions three vehicles, including the Dodge Magnum, are now gracing North American highways with their “can’t miss” presence. The Dodge Magnum wagon, as the first vehicle based on the LX platform, has successfully erased most people’s concept of what a “station wagon” should be. With its menacing front end, rakish body lines, and abundant hauling capacity the Magnum is no mere “mom mobile” instead, the car is a true sport wagon. Taking that theme to the extreme is the Magnum SRT8, the ultimate fusion of sport wagon and muscle car. When it comes to engines, Magnum owners have plenty of choices. From the 2.7L V6 powering the SE, to the 3.5L V6 found underneath the hood of the SXT, to the explosive intensity generated by the 5.7L Hemi V8 that comes with the sporty R/T, Magnum owners have a variety of choices not found in many vehicle’s of its class. Thinking that some Dodge fanatics would want even something more powerful than the R/T, the brand released the SRT8 in 2005 which features a 6.1L Hemi V8 that bangs out an extraordinary 425 horses and 420 lb.-ft of torque. Add on the 20 inch aluminum wheels, firm up the suspension, and equip the model with bigger brakes and you have one untamable Magnum! Chrysler 300c Srt8: The Fusion Of Luxury And Performance Full sized, rear wheel drive luxury is back in vogue. Thanks to the introduction of the Chrysler 300C, consumers have a choice that goes beyond the dated Lincoln Town Car or the expensive BMW 7 Series. With the release of the 300C, Chrysler is doing its part in revolutionizing full size car performance as the 300C is edgy, luxurious, and in the case of the SRT8 model, extremely fast. Read on to learn how you can maximize the performance of your Chrysler 300C SRT8 with a pair of trusty, potent aftermarket enhancements. Three decades after the 300 designation was retired, Chrysler resurrected the 300 name and placed it on a shortened version of its big LH sedan. The 300M – as it was called -- was praised for its smooth style and luxurious appointments, however the V6 powered, front wheel drive model failed to live up to the vaunted ancestry of the original 300 series built by Chrysler. Thus, the car was considered only a 300 in name, not in substance. Chrysler's Rip Roaring Srt Family Of Vehicles Step back in time some fifty years ago and you would see that the American automotive market was much different than it is today. Three companies dominated the scene: GM, Ford, and Chrysler with the newly formed American Motors making up the bulk of the sales. Volkswagen was new to the U.S. market with its legendary Beetle while Toyota was still a few years away from marketing its very first cars. Although the term “muscle car” wasn’t used until the 1960s, a series of “Hemi powered” vehicles from the Chrysler Corporation began to hit the streets. These particular models influenced this unique segment for several years until market changes in the early 1970s effectively eliminated that category. Today, muscle cars are back and the Chrysler Group is leading the way with its expansive line up of SRT vehicles. Although consumer tastes have changed as has the overall automotive market, Chrysler’s SRT family of vehicles remains a popular choice for performance enthusiasts everywhere. Read on and we’ll explore the vehicles that are shaping the new muscle car era. Several years before Daimler-Benz and the Chrysler Corporation merged to form DaimlerChrysler, a team of Chrysler employees was tasked to invigorate the automaker’s line up with bold and exciting models. The first vehicle produced by “Team Viper” was the Dodge Viper, Mopar’s answer to the Chevy Corvette; a few years later it was followed by the Plymouth Prowler, a limited production retro-style roadster produced by a parallel group, “Team Prowler”. Clearly, Chrysler was attempting to erase its uninspiring K-car image with the production of these two models and although production was very limited, the vehicles managed to positively impact the Dodge and Plymouth brands. Mercedes Blue: New Diesels Miss The Mark Mercedes-Benz has long been an expert builder of diesel engines, producing hundreds of thousands of the alternate-fuel driven power plants every year. Indeed, in Europe alone, a significant portion of the vehicles destined for continental homes are diesel aspirated models. In the U.S., however, Mercedes is having a bit of a problem with its line of diesel engines as more stringent emission control standards makes the marketing of diesel powered cars more difficult. Starting this fall Mercedes will be introducing its all new E320 Bluetec diesel powered car that meets EPA standards; unfortunately, five states will not permit the sale of these models leaving parent DaimlerChrysler feeling a little bit blue. You have to hand it to Mercedes and to other automakers that are trying to produce fuel efficient cars but are facing increasingly more difficult emissions restrictions in the U.S. It is one thing when the Environmental Protection Agency {EPA} raises pollution standards, but a whole ‘nuther thing when individual states seek to raise that standard higher. California, for instance, has long stood on its own requiring automakers to produce cars that met pollution standards that are tougher than the other 49 states’ requirements. Recently, New York, Vermont, Maine, and Massachusetts joined in and now require the same tough standards as the Golden State. The Race Car Inspired Bmw M3 German premier automotive maker BMW continues to maintain its hold as the top selling luxury auto brand in the world. Battling with archrival Mercedes-Benz year in and year out for the highest laurels, BMW continues to constantly tweak its existing line and add new vehicles to its line in a bid to stimulate and strengthen customer interest. One area where BMW has found much of its recent success is with its race car inspired line of vehicles, the M Series. Since 1979 various Motorsports [M} tags have been affixed to vehicles that have been developed by the BMW Motorsports division, including the BMW M3 a car based on BMW’s popular 3 Series. Today, BMW engineers are hard at work on developing an all new BMW M3 and, if all of the auto buzz is correct, very few cars will be able to keep up with this 400 hp road commander. Please keep reading for a closer look at the all new, soon to be released, BMW M3. A pitched battle in autodom continues to gather force pitting German automaker against German automaker. Legendary Mercedes-Benz is taking on heralded BMW for the right to call themselves the top selling luxury brand in the world. For years, the honor belonged exclusively to Mercedes-Benz, but a recent stumble on Mercedes’ part coupled with a surge of new products from BMW has placed BMW in first place. Not far behind the two is Lexus, the luxury division of Toyota, but for now the battle remains a fight between these two German automakers. 2007 Saturn Aura: The Wait Is Over! When Saturn exited the midsize car market a few years ago they left with a promise: we’ll be back. After several years of lackluster sales, GM’s Saturn division dropped the unpopular L Series in 2004 with no immediate replacement waiting. Thanks in part to the company’s German division, Opel, Saturn has a new car to capture the imagination of sedan enthusiasts everywhere. The AURA, a five passenger Euro style sedan, is now on display at your local Saturn dealership. Please read on to see what the AURA has in store for buyers just like you. The L Series wasn’t a bad car, it just got lost in a sea of competition dominated by popular Camrys, versatile Accords, and dependable Taurus’s. Bland styling didn’t help matters either as the car never approached General Motors’ expectations, therefore the automaker decided to drop the model from Saturn’s then spartan line up. Saturn: That Was Then, This Is Now Step back in time with me if you would, about 20 years to be precise, to an era when automaker General Motors was busy making plans for their all new company, Saturn. This wasn’t to be just another GM division mind you as Saturn was created as a separate import fighting company meant to take on the likes of Toyota and Honda. By 1990, the first Saturn cars rolled off a bucolic Tennessee countryside assembly line signaling a new cooperation between workers and management. Immediately, the funky little “S Series” of sedans, wagons, and coupes were a hit and GM was soon lauded for taking a bold initiative. Today, Saturn is much different from the brand that took on Japan’s top automakers. Instead of being a separate, wholly owned car company the make is now one of General Motors’ many automotive divisions. The S Series sold well and the introduction of subsequent models helped the brand, but ultimately parent GM decided to pull the company within the General’s fold as it chose to close down Oldsmobile instead. Current models being sold by Saturn are much different from what was originally offered, but the company has managed to keep one huge attribute that originally propelled the brand forward: people are first. Let’s take a look at Saturn’s current line up and the vehicles soon to be introduced. Audi A8: Mercedes, Bmw Beware! When you think of German automotive excellence, Mercedes and BMW are two brands that easily come to mind. Audi, too, has been making a name for itself and is poised to cause a lot of trouble for its Bavarian cousins with its current line of cars and planned models. The cream of the crop Audi is the A8, a true champion and a terrific alternative to BMW and Mercedes. Let’s take a closer look at Audi’s top-of-the-line sedan and what it has to offer to you, the European sedan enthusiast. Back in 1994 Audi decided to take on Mercedes and BMW by introducing an all new car the full size Audi A8. As the first car built on an entirely aluminum platform [for weight savings optimization] the Audi A8 has been constantly redefining the German luxury car market ever since. Way back in 1997, the Audi A8 became the first car in the world to offer six air bags. Later, more powerful diesel and gasoline powered engines were introduced to further separate the brand from its competitors. Audi A4: From Passat And Back Sometimes an automaker will introduce a vehicle based upon the platform of a “lesser” model. Typically, this plan is employed when costs need to be cut to realize real savings. The theory is that the shared platform can be tweaked enough to distinguish the upscale model from the ordinary one. Add in leather, a taut suspension, and upgraded powerplant options and you can probably pull it off. For Audi, the introduction of the all-new Audi A4 during the mid1990s allowed the German automaker to capitalize on the success of the Volkswagen Passat, a midsize car from its European cousin. The plan worked, but it was only a temporary move. Let’s take a look at the Audi A4 and its surge to the top of German automotive excellence. For years, the Audi 80 defined the smaller cars in Audi’s line up. By the early 1990s, the aging model was in need of updating and the name itself would need to be changed with the two digit alphanumeric model designation recently adopted by Audi. Cost pressures, however, made the development of an all-new from-the-ground-up model impossible. Instead, Audi tapped Volkswagen and based the original Audi A4 upon the successful VW Passat. All About Audi German sport luxury brand Audi has played a strong role in helping to shape consumer tastes and influence the entire European touring market. For nearly 100 years, the Audi brand has been synonymous with producing high quality, reliable, and well engineered vehicles. An odd start almost scuttled the company’s plans, yet today Audi has risen above adversity and is producing cars that are world renowned in quality and engineering. August Horch founded Horch Automotive in Cologne, Germany in 1899, and began manufacturing cars in 1901 which featured a horizontal engine producing upwards of 5 horsepower. Demand for these models propelled Horch to expand production and move to a larger manufacturing facility where a newer, more powerful model cranking out a then-amazing 10 horsepower was released. Acura Integra: The Car, The Legend Released as a 1987 model, the very first Acura Integra started what was to become a strong following of owners who were drawn in by the car’s sports appeal and reasonable prices. Based on the Honda Civic, the Integra successfully brought customers over to the Acura brand and has been widely credited with spurring Honda’s luxury division to its “legendary” success. In 2002, Acura renamed the car the “RSX” to bring the name in line with the alphabet soup designation of each of its models. Whatever you call the car, the Integra has lived up to all of the hype surrounding the model. Let’s take a closer look a vehicle that has an interesting, if not a bit strange, legacy.

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