Lake tahoe article

2007 Chevrolet Tahoe: Leaning Towards Safety

Thu, 21 Aug 2008 05:51:30 +0000

2007 Chevrolet Tahoe: Leaning Towards Safety

by: Joe Thompson

The 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe has been designed and crafted by Chevrolet the automobile manufacturer with family safety in mind. Just like any other vehicle from Chevrolet, the 2007 Tahoe has made it a point to be able to perform well as well as provide safety before a crash, during a crash, as well as after a crash. This vehicle comes in three trim levels that comprise of the LS, the LT, and the LTZ.

The 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe is one of the first creations of General Motors as per new full size sport utility vehicles. The interior layout of this vehicle is quite symmetrical and very engaging. It also incorporates a build quality that is vastly superior to any other previous vehicles crafted by the company. The vehicle had dropped off the hard plastic trim framing controls and put in its place modern and cohesive construction that provides and exudes a more European look. The new interior holds beautiful import materials thus providing a premium-touch surface and a tasteful element in styling. As per noise, this hubbub from the road and the wind is well hidden and kept away from its passengers. It holds the capacity to absorb persistent surface degradation. The whole vehicle is very rattle-free.

As per the company?s leaning towards safety, they have included several features so as to showcase their efforts in providing extreme safety during inevitable accidents, crashes, and collisions. Antilock brake systems, or also known as ABS, has been designed so as to assist in maintaining steering control. This system does this by reducing wheel lockup during hard braking on slippery surfaces. The StabiliTrak Electronic Stability Control System has been added in so as to improve vehicle stability especially on slick surfaces. When this feature senses that the 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe is not responding to steering input, it automatically adjusts the engine torque and brake pressure at each wheel so as to assist the driver in getting the Tahoe back on track. Other safety features include Daytime Running Lamps, the OnStar system, the Lower Anchors and Top tethers for Children, or LATCH, system, frontal air bags, side-impact airbags, head-curtain side air bags, and front air bags with passenger sensing system.

Other features of the 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe include bumpers, power doors, black door handles, halogen fog lamps, a luggage rack with center rails, heated mirrors, a rear parking assist, 17-inch aluminum wheels, cargo mats, cargo shades for the third row, a cruise control, climate controls, an electric defogger, a remote keyless entry, an adjusted and tilt wheel steering column, a sunroof, sun visors, temperature control and a theft-deterrent system among many others.

Whether having a journey on extreme conditions or on sleepy town roads, the 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe deserves excellent maintenance so as to be able for this vehicle to continuously offer the best functionality and longevity. Maintenance involves taking care of its parts as well as involving replace worn out parts. Worn out parts could jeopardize the health of the 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe and could pose to be a danger for its driver and passengers. Excellent and quality Chevrolet Tahoe and Chevrolet car parts could be found at Auto Parts Discount?s online store. http://www.carpartswholesale.com is one of the leading online stores where owners can get guaranteed high quality parts at low prices.

About The Author

Joe Thompson is the owner of a successful auto body shop in Ferndale, California. This 38 year old is also a prolific writer, contributing automotive related articles to various publications.

Auto Parts Discount http://www.carpartswholesale.com/cpw/chevrolet-car-parts.html

Joe@carpartswholesale.com

Beautiful Lake Garda Italy

Thu, 21 Aug 2008 05:51:15 +0000

Beautiful Lake Garda Italy

by: Christopher Panduro

The crystal clear waters of Lake Garda are perfect for swimming and many popular sports such as windsurfing and sailing. The local climate is softened by the presence of this large body of water, which makes it comfortable for exploring the towns and villages on and close to the lake towns such as Garda, Lazise, Sirmione, Torri del Benaco Bardolino, Limone and Peschiera which are wonderful places to visit with a great choice of hotels, villas and Holiday homes or just for wandering around the cobbled streets filled with shops, hotels and restaurants and are home to bustling lakeside markets.

Do visit the old port of Torbole, the charming old streets of Limone and the castle and Roman Villa in Sirmione.From Malcesine you can take a cable car onto Monte Baldo for some mountain walking and superb views. Walks on the lake shore from Lazie or Bardolino also help to work up an appetite.On the southern shore, jutting into lake garda, lays Sirmione with its quiet cobblestone streets, thermal baths, fairytale castle, olive groves and quaint hotels. Gazing across Lake Garda from the town of Desenzano on its southwest bank, the view is quite spectacular. Lake Garda?s has more in common with southern Italy. The Veronese east bank of the Lake produces olive oil and famous wines, such as Valpolicella and Bardolino.

Looming above the area is Mount Baldo with its three peaks. Projecting through the last glacial sheet, its unique flora is a throwback to pre-glacial times.The rich soil and mild climate of the lake area encourages an abundance of wildlife and flora. Cedars, olives, lemon and palm trees flourish and the Gorgeous shoreline offers pristine beaches. Numerous ancient castles dot the hillsides. The cablecar ride to Monte Baldo provides magnificent views of Lake Garda and the mountains beyond.

www.lakegarda.biz hopes you will enjoy your visit and will find our web site useful, please feel free to contact us if you have any more questions regarding the lake.

About The Author

Christopher Panduro

Moved to Lake Garda from the UK 13 Years ago. I fell in love with the Lake and decided to create a website www.lakegarda.biz about it.

Choose The Perfect Fishing Trip Destination

Thu, 21 Aug 2008 01:11:37 +0000

Choose The Perfect Fishing Trip Destination

by: Sintilia Miecevole

One of the first things you must do to plan a great fishing trip is to identify your priorities. You need to be more specific than just saying you want great fishing. Great fishing may mean different things to each person in your fishing party.

One person might be happy with catching 20 fish per day, while another might be expecting 30 fish per hour. So, you need to decide this up front.

Let's take a look at some of the most important things to consider when deciding where to go on your fishing trip.

What type of fish do you want to catch?

While this may seem obvious, it is something that needs to be discussed. One person may want to fish for walleye and northern pike, while others may want to go bass fishing. Since many northern lakes have water too cold for bass, you may end up at a lake that would really disappoint the bass fisherman.

Do you want tons of action? Or trophy fish?

Some anglers simply enjoy catching lots of fish (most any size) with the hope of getting a few big ones. Other fishermen would rather give up catching a large quantity of fish for a better chance at catching the biggest fish they can find. You need to decide which is more important to your fishing group... lots of fish that maybe aren't the biggest or fewer fish but a greater chance of a really big one.

It should be noted that there are many places where you can do both... catch lots of fish and get some big ones. But, these tend to be at the more remote and pricey lodges and are not always feasible for many fishing groups.

How are you going to catch your fish?

Do you like to troll? Or drift? Fish in streams? Deep water fish?

We've seen people trolling in 60 feet of water thinking the fish were only a few feet from the surface. Not much chance of catching anything this way. Be sure you know the type of fishing your group prefers and that the lake will offer it.

What do you want to spend for this fishing trip?

The price you're willing to pay will have a great impact on the type of fishing trip you'll have.

Be realistic. How much do you really want to spend? Are you comfortable in a tent or tar-paper shack on a lake with great fishing?

Or would you prefer staying at a more upscale fishing lodge?

Do you want to cook for yourself... or do you want the fishing camp to do the cooking?

And what about shower facilities? Are you willing to use a community shower or do you want a private shower and bath in your own cabin. Gentlemen, if you're taking your spouse on this trip, make absolutely sure you consider this one! If you don't, it could spoil an otherwise great trip.

Other considerations are how long the trip will be and the type of fish you are looking to catch. A trip to a fishing lodge on a lake with pan fish and bass will likely be much cheaper that a trip to Alaska or Northern Canada for arctic char.

So, if you really want a great fishing trip, start by planning just exactly what you want out of the trip and how much you are willing to spend. Do it right and you can have the fishing trip of a lifetime.

About The Author

Sintilia Miecevole

Visit http://www.fishingyarns.com with host, Sintilia Miecevole, a site which reveals the thrills of outdoors and the pleasure of fishing. Information from Alaska fishing, deep sea, tackle, boats and trips to ice fishing, gear, lake fishing and more. Visit http://www.fishingyarns.com for great resource material on fishing.

All New Tahoe Soon to Drive By

Wed, 20 Aug 2008 23:24:14 +0000

All New Tahoe Soon to Drive By

by: Joe Thompson

Soon to be driving on the roads would be the 2007 Chevy Tahoe which is the Chevrolet?s next generation of the automobile industry?s best-selling full-size SUV. This new sport-utility vehicle has been comprehensively redesigned and guarantees a sharper, an increased interior refinement, an improved quietness, and a more precise driving feel. Promised for this vehicle also is the capacity for more power because of its improved, segment-leading fuel economy. Since the year 2001, the Chevrolet Tahoe has been the best-selling full-size SUV. The new vehicle is bound to take over the top of the segment in its sales, quality, and comfort.

The outgoing model for this vehicle has found its way to be able to rank first in the J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Survey for five years, thus topping all other import and luxury models in its rank. The Chevrolet Tahoe through the years has been able to establish credentials for itself with its ?no compromises? mantra ? all due to its carrying out of improvements in the different areas of performance, quality, and comfort. This has made the Chevrolet Tahoe a vehicle that lives up to its name.

Changes for the new 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe include capabilities that are segment leaders in its field. It is promised to provide a superior ride plus superior handling and quietness in one vehicle. Improved efficiency, a refined interior with convenience built into it, a distinctive and sporty exterior fa?ade, plus an enhanced safety and security system all adds up to contribute to the changes for this new vehicle.

Added features for comfort and luxury of the 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe includes a power-release fold-and-tumble second-row seats, a remote vehicle starting system, first- and second-row heated seats, an ultrasonic rear parking assist, a rearview camera system, a touch-screen navigation system, power-articulating running boards, and a DVD rear-seat entertainment system with a larger, 8-inch screen. As per the amenities and performance features, the new vehicle is wrapped in a stylish new package that exudes the sporty, ready-for-anything look that is constant in each and every Chevrolet Tahoe. The design of its exterior is leaner and is found to be more agile looking comprising of large wheels that enhances the vehicle?s powerful and capable stance. Aerodynamics had also been improved that adds up to the Chevrolet Tahoe?s sleek look, and a more steeply raked windshield and a smoother roofline.

Locating Chevrolet Parts has been tremendously easy through the usage of the easy-to-navigate site provided by the trusted and leading replacement, OEM, and aftermarket parts factory that does its business online. A hassle-free and convenient shopping experience is very well catered to by http://www.carpartswholesale.com.

Ed Peper, the Chevrolet general manager, asserts, ?Tahoe is known for delivering whatever its customers want, whenever they want to do it ? a hard-earned reputation reflection in countless independent quality studies, buying guide recommendations and customers who have returned to buy another vehicle. The ?07 model enhances the attributes that have made Chevrolet Tahoe the industry?s best-selling full-size SUV and improves them with dramatically increased attention to detail in smoothness, quietness and refinement. We believe it is simply the best Tahoe yet.?

About The Author

Joe Thompson is the owner of a successful auto body shop in Ferndale, California. This 48 year old is also a prolific writer, contributing automotive related articles to various publications.

Auto Parts Discount http://www.carpartswholesale.com/cpw/chevrolet-car-parts.html

Joe@carpartswholesale.com

Austria ? Vienna, Salzburg, Halstatt and Sound of Music

Wed, 20 Aug 2008 23:08:11 +0000

Austria ? Vienna, Salzburg, Halstatt and Sound of Music

by: Rick Chapo

Austria simply can?t be beat when it comes to beauty. You?ve seen the country in the Sound of Music, but the cities of Vienna, Salzburg and the alpine town of Halstatt are just as nice.

Vienna

Vienna is a city with a ridiculous amount of history. The home of the waltz, Habsburg Palaces and an unrivaled musical past. Walk for an evening through the cobblestone streets in the center city and you can almost hear a famous composer at work. In fact, many of the walking areas are lined with small orchestral ensembles playing their way through the evening. Elbowing in on their act, of course, are those unique artist who dress in a period piece and then stand in one position for what seems time eternal. Buddhist monks would be envious if they believed in envy.

The only downside to Vienna is the expense. It is very expensive. If you are going to spend some time in the city, be ready to pay for the privilege.

Salzburg

Salzburg is one of my favorite cities and I always try to hit it when I am traveling through Europe. The real home of Mozart, Salzburg is Vienna without less of the hustle and bustle. A walk through the shopping district will leave you breathless and, sometimes, penniless, but it is a worthwhile go. Salzburg is a city where you can drink bear with monks, take in an opera or just walk through exquisite rose gardens. Unfortunately, it gives Vienna a run for its money when it comes to being expensive. Yes, pun intended.

Halstatt

Halstatt is the little town in the Alps that puts the Sound of Music to shame. Located roughly an hour outside of Salzburg, the easiest way to reach it is by train. The train travels well up into the Alps and drops you off by the side of a lake. You plop down in a little hut and wait for the ferry from Halstatt to appear. The ferry then halls you across the lake to a Alpine town with no cars ? Halstatt. It is like stepping into the past. People are friendly, prices are reasonable and romance is on the hoof. Swans swim along the outdoor cafes dotting the lake and, well, it is pretty dang nice. If you are looking for a little romance, Halstatt is definitely worth your consideration.

For many travelers, Austria gets scratched off the ?must visit? list because it is so expensive. Still, you should try to visit it at least once in your life to take in the splendor.

About The Author

Rick Chapo is with http://www.nomadjournals.com - makers of travel journals. Writing journals are the perfect travel accessories. Visit http://www.nomadjournaltrips.com to read more travel articles and travelogues.

2006 Ford Expedition: A Whole New Way to Travel

Wed, 20 Aug 2008 20:44:42 +0000

2006 Ford Expedition: A Whole New Way to Travel

by: Tracy Dawson

The 2006 Ford Expedition is a full-size SUV segment with a combination of interior versatility and adaptability, driving control, and, of course, safety. In two years in a row, it has continuously won the Polk Automotive Loyalty Award in its own segment.

Ford Motor Company first introduced the Ford Expedition in the year 1996. It was introduced as a rival to the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon, which were full-size SUVs. The Ford Expedition surely has evolved through the years and it was in the year 2003 when it received a major redesign that integrated an independent rear suspension that even the 2006 Tahoe and Yukon avoided. The 2006 Ford Expedition is a capable truck, with decent power, plenty of room, and includes lots of safety features.

Its features are leaders and milestone breakers in its class. And these features include fold-flat-to-the-floor second- and third-row seating, class-exclusive PowerFold? third-row seat, second-row CenterSlide? section, heated and cooled front seats, keyless entry pad, AdvanceTrac? with Roll Stability Control?, Safety Canopy? system, reverse sensing system and power-adjustable pedals. The 2006 Ford Expedition also has 110.5 cubic feet of cargo volume, which is the most hip room in all three rows and most third-row legroom, making it the best offer for the best-in-class interior space. Another highlight of this vehicle is that it also offers independent rear suspension for improved ride and handling which is the first for an SUV in its class. For this vehicle, two new exterior colors are offered: pewter clearcoat metallic, and dark copper clearcoat metallic. A medium flint grey interior has also been added to this series.

http://www.autopartscorner.com gives owners a great collection of 2006 Ford Expedition replacement parts like bumpers, spoilers, wheels, header panels, headlights, hoods, and radiator support. Unlike other online stores, Auto Parts corner gives each and every client excellent customer service and the finest quality 2006 Ford Expedition parts that only a Ford deserves.

About The Author

Tracy Dawson is a 29 year old researcher and writer from Dallas, Texas with extensive experience in writing auto-related articles and covering automotive related events. She is currently a contributing writer for a leading automotive e-zine.

Auto Parts Corner http://www.autopartscorner.com/ford/ford_expedition_parts.html

tracy@autopartscorner.com

Alien landings in the Lake District?

Wed, 20 Aug 2008 18:55:26 +0000

Alien landings in the Lake District?

by: Peter Scott

News that the latest space probe has discovered a discarded Kendal Mint Cake wrapper on the surface of Mars, and, what appears to be an alien space-craft seen landing on Skiddaw and discharging small people armed with cameras, confirms once and for all that Cumbria and the Lake District is probably the most popular visitor location in the Universe.

Not only is the spectacular scenery and hospitality a tourist attraction, but an added allure is the sense of mystery, secrecy and maybe a touch of disbelief surrounding many of the region?s venues. A century or so ago, travelers wishing to cross Lake Windermere between Ferry Nab and Sawrey on the opposite shore used the services of a boatman and his small rowing-boat. One particularly stormy night, a voice was heard to call for transport from the wooded slopes of Claiffe Heights on the Sawrey side of the water. The boatman duly set off to collect what he assumed was a passenger, but, disappeared en-route. Later on the following day, the boatman was found laying on the lake shore, incoherent and in deep shock. He died shortly afterwards. Thus was established the legend of the ?Crier of Claiffe?.

Moving a few miles south to the village of Natland, near Kendal, the visitor is faced by the sticky problem of unraveling the riddle of the Treacle Mines whose exact location, has, over the centuries, remained a closely guarded secret known only to a few of the village elders.

Sadly, researchers can no longer enlist the assistance of the notable, but long dead Scots born wizard, Michael Scott. Scott is credited with casting a spell on a coven of witches and turning them into the stones which now constitute the circle of ?Long Meg? near Penrith. Folklore states that if a visitor can count the number of stones twice, and arrive at the same total each time, then the spell will be broken. However, be warned; any attempt to dislodge the stones will invoke a weather storm of cataclysmic power.

This area is rich in Arthurian Legend. One account recounts the episode where Arthur and his nephew joined forces to outwit the scheming Grim Baron. Their quest, set by the Baron, to search the true answer to the question ?what does a woman desire? makes entertaining reading. And, what of the mystery of the Giants Grave found in the churchyard of Penrith?s St. Andrews Church?

Leaving Penrith behind and continuing north to the region?s capital, Carlisle, we find the ?Cursing Stone? standing in the entrance of a pedestrian underpass not too far from the ancient castle. This 14 tons of recently sculpted stone bears the 1069 words of a 16thC curse chiseled into the surface. The curse concludes by condemning the marauding Border Reivers of the age to ?the deep pit of Hell?. Recently, there have been calls for the stone?s removal from the city by some who believe that its presence brings ill-fortune.

On a lighter note, a visit to the beautiful but uncompromising stretch of Wastwater may reveal the position of the underwater gnome garden. This is an area where, with a little imagination, the inspiring setting will transport you on any journey of your choice to a world of magic and mystery.

These are but a few of the many tales, fanciful or otherwise, which have enchanted generations over the centuries. There is nothing to compare (in my opinion) to a good yarn told over a drink in a log-fired pub amongst friends, old and new.

Incidentally, did I really see a 3 legged dog, wearing a life-jacket on the shores of Lake Windermere one morning, and was it wearing a space-helmet?

About The Author

Peter Scott was born and bred in The English Lake District.

After a successful career as an aircraft engineer, Peter and his son, David, run a website promoting all aspects of The Lake District with their new website: http://www.wordsworthcountry.com.

Banff - Lake Louise: Stunning Beauty and Nature At Its Best in the Canadian Rockies

Wed, 20 Aug 2008 16:52:15 +0000

Banff - Lake Louise: Stunning Beauty and Nature At Its Best in the Canadian Rockies

by: Susanne Pacher

For the first time ever, my husband and I are going to go skiing in the majestic Rocky Mountains: in March of 2006 we are going to go to stay a week in Banff, Alberta and we are also going to explore Lake Louise, the turquoise jewel of the Canadian Rockies. As we have never been to this region, I have started to do some research and contacted the official visitor information website for the communities of Banff and Lake Louise in Banff National Park.

I had a chance to speak with Quintin Winks, Manager of Media Relations for

Banff Lake Louise Tourism, who was able to provide me with excellent background information about the Banff / Lake Louise Region.

1. Please provide us with some general information about Banff/Lake Louise. Where is it located, what is the weather like?

Banff is located within Banff National Park, in the Canadian Rockies of Western Alberta. The town of Banff is famous for its spectacular setting, but it is more than just a pretty place. As Canada's first incorporated municipality in a national park, Banff is a very special community. It is environmentally-conscious, balanced, rich with character and culture and a friendly and open community. The elevation of Banff townsite is 1,383 m (4,537 feet), the highest town in Canada. The elevation of Lake Louise is 1,536 m (5,039 feet), the highest permanent settlement in Canada.

Summer (July - August):

The summer season usually has low humidity, warm temperatures and daylight hours lasting until 11:00 p.m. at the height of the summer equinox.

Autumn (Sept - Oct):

Fall sees diminishing daylight hours and warm days with cooling evening winds.

Winter (Nov - March):

Although it can and does snow at any time of the year, the first snows generally begin to fall in November. The average temperature during the winter months is around -12? C (6? F); however it is not unusual to have a two-week cold snap during December or January where temperatures plummet into the -30 degree C/F range. Fortunately Banff and areas west and south, regularly receive a welcome weather phenomenon called Chinooks, warm winds that produce spring-like temperatures in a matter of hours.

Spring (April - June):

Rain and warming temperatures begin to melt winter away from the valleys in April, however snow does not leave the mountain passes until mid-summer. While the average precipitation is relatively low during this time, snowmelt pushes the rivers to their crests.

2. How can one get to Banff/Lake Louise and what is the best way of getting around locally?

Situated in the Rocky Mountains of Alberta, the town of Banff is located inside the boundaries of Banff National Park. It is situated 128 kilometres (80 miles) west of Calgary, 401 kilometres (250 miles) southwest of Edmonton and 850 kilometres (530 miles) east of Vancouver. Commercial airlines service each of these three Canadian cities, and buses to Banff and Lake Louise run year round.

Banff is easily accessed by bus or car using the Trans-Canada Highway. Calgary to Banff driving time is about 2 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. Speed limits inside the national park are 90km/hour.

The closest major airport is the Calgary International Airport. Scheduled van and motorcoach shuttle services connect Banff with Calgary Airport. Departures are limited (usually 3 or 4 per day).

3. What are some of the major sights in and around Banff/ Lake Louise?

Banff is famous first and foremost for its spectacular natural scenery, but also for its museums, national historic sites and heritage buildings.

Architectural and heritage guidelines ensure the town retains its mountain culture and charm. Banff also has three historic sites (Cave & Basin, Banff Park Museum and Bankhead) and numerous heritage buildings, one of the best performing art schools in the country (The Banff Centre), top-notch art galleries (The Walter Phillips Gallery and Canada House Gallery among others) and a world-renown museum specializing in the art and history of the Canadian Rockies (the Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies).

Wildlife is also abundant within Banff National Park and many visitors return home with memorable photographs of species that make use of the park.

>From bridge to biking, there is so much to do in the Banff area including airplane tours, barbecues, billiards, boat tours, bowling, dogsledding, downhill and cross-country skiing, fishing, golf, hiking, snowshoeing, nature tours, horseback riding, carriage and sleigh rides, mountaineering and climbing, hiking, hot springs and spas, museums and art galleries, gondolas, snocoach tours, sightseeing, whitewater rafting, kayaking and float trips.

4. Please tell us about the skiing opportunities in Banff/Lake Louise and other winter activities on offer in your area.

Three outstanding ski resorts, Ski Banff@Norquay, Sunshine Village and Lake Louise provide more than 7,700 acres and 240 trails offering countless options to skiers and snowboarders of any ability. From wide-open bowls and tree-lined glades covered with fresh dry champagne powder, to meticulous groomed slopes and state-of-the-art snowmaking, visitors enjoy unspoiled scenery, short lift lines, and guaranteed friendly local hospitality. The last major snowstorm through this area was less than one week ago and the snow conditions are powder, powder, powder. More snow is forecast in the coming days.

There are over 80km of cross-country trails within a short drive of the Banff townsite alone. The vast network of track-set and untracked trails, and telemark slopes throughout Banff National Park calls nordic skiers of all abilities. The Banff National Park Service keeps up to date trail conditions and weather forecasts.

Banff also offers guided snow-shoeing tours, ice walks, dog sledding and ice climbing, not to mention heli-skiing.

5. What about activities during the summer time?

Ride through a pine forest hearing only hoof beats, zoom down waterslides, or come face to face with a grizzly bear while exploring an interpretive museum. Banff Lake Louise offers something for everyone.

Enjoy the spectacular views from the Brewster Gondola, explore the Columbia Icefield from aboard the enormous snocoach, rent a bike and ride around the park or get up early and enjoy a bird walk in the spring. There?s also guided tours through Johnston Canyon, nature walks, a skateboard park and several fine patios for enjoying a cool refreshment after hours of exploration in the summer sun. That?s just the tip of the iceberg.

6. Banff / Lake Louise's history is connected to the expansion of railways across Canada. Please give us a brief historical overview of the area.

1883

The railway passes through the Banff area and reaches Laggan Station (Lake Louise). Three railway workers, Frank McCabe, Tom McCardell, and William McCardell, stake claim to the natural hot springs on the side of Sulphur Mountain.

- 1884: Lord Steven, a former CPR director, christens the area "Banff" after his birthplace, Banffshire, Scotland.

- 1885: The federal government sets aside a 26 km? reserve surrounding the hot springs discovered two years earlier. Two years later, that area is increased to 670 sq. km. The Canadian Pacific Railway Company and the federal government cooperate in promoting the area as an international resort and spa as a way to support the new railway and ease the financial pressures on Confederation.

- 1888: The Canadian Pacific Railway Company builds the area's first large tourist accommodation, The Banff Springs Hotel.

- 1911: Automobile access to Banff is made possible by the construction of the Banff/Calgary Coach Road.

- 1917: The park's area is increased to 7 125 km?. The Canadian government passes the first National Parks Act.

- 1930: Rocky Mountains Park is renamed Banff National Park and its size becomes fixed at 6641 km?.

- 1933: The Banff Centre for Continuing Education is founded.

- 1985: Banff, Jasper, Yoho and Kootenay National Parks along with four adjacent provincial parks are declared a World Heritage Site by the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

- 1990: Through a joint agreement between the local citizens and the federal and provincial governments, the town of Banff becomes the only incorporated municipality within a Canadian national park.

7. Our readers would like to find out about the festivals and special events in Banff/Lake Louise.

Festivals and special events are many in Banff and Lake Louise. The most immediate two are Ice Magic and Winterfest. Ice Magic involves artists from all over the world converging on Lake Louise and carving 300 kilogram blocks of ice into spectacular sculptures (January 27-29). Winterfest is a series of fun activities. The most up-to-date information on all festivals and special events can be found at http://www.banfflakelouise.com/

8. What about restaurants and entertainment in Banff / Lake Louise?

With inventive panache, chefs relentlessly reach new culinary heights. Recipes change according to the seasons and make use of the freshest local ingredients. During the fall and winter, this means game, squash and legumes, while spring features asparagus and mushrooms and summer highlights edible flowers and fresh fruits.

The town has a wide variety of tourism-related businesses including over 118 restaurants with food to suit every palette. There?s Indian cuisine, sushi, Korean, Chinese, Western, Pasta, Thai, Greek and just about every other variation.

Banff is also home to The Banff Centre. This institution is host to many forms of entertainment, including art galleries and installations, theatre productions and concerts ranging in variety from string quartets, blues, jazz, ethnic and rock ?n? roll. There is something happening virtually every week of the year. Banff also has a cinema, bowling lanes, water slides and indoor pool and billiards hall. There?s an indoor rock-climbing wall, skating rink, tennis courts and myriad other things to do for entertainment regardless of the weather.

9. What are some of the shopping opportunities in Banff / Lake Louise?

Enjoy strolling alongside locals and world-travellers as you discover a cosmopolitan collection of galleries, boutiques and caf?s. Shops range from internationally recognized clothiers or independently-owned establishments to Canada's oldest department store.

10. What type of accommodations options are available in Banff / Lake Louise?

>From five-star elegance to the cozy comfort of cabins or chalets, Banff Lake Louise has more than 100 hotels, motels, condominiums resorts, lodges and bed & breakfasts that will make you feel at home whatever your tastes.

11. What are some of the major events and big news stories coming up in 2006 and beyond in Banff/Lake Louise?

Banff looks poised to host a skins golf game this summer that will attract some of the biggest names in golf.

Also big in the news is the commencement of Banff Refreshing, a sidewalk expansion program and greening that will make downtown Banff much more pedestrian friendly and reduce the amount of traffic using the downtown core.

The first phase of the Trans-Canada Highway twinning project will also swing into high gear this summer, making transit through Banff National Park faster and safer than ever. Of note with this project are state-of-the-art wildlife crossing structures to keep animals off the highway.

Passing of a recent lighting bylaw means that Banff?s night sky will become more and more clear as time passes.

Thank you, Quintin, for your time to provide us with more information about the beautiful Banff/Lake Louise area. We look forward to exploring your area first-hand in March!

For further information about Banff/Lake Louise please contact:

Banff Lake Louise Tourism

P.O. Box 1298, Banff, Alberta, T1L 1B3, Canada

Phone:403-762-8421 Fax: 403-762-8163

Email: info@banfflakelouise.com

Web: www.BanffLakeLouise.com

About The Author

Susanne Pacher is the publisher of a website called Travel and Transitions (www.travelandtransitions.com). Travel and Transitions deals with unconventional travel and is chock full of advice, tips, real life travel experiences, interviews with travellers and travel experts, insights and reflections, cross-cultural issues, contests and many other features. You will also find stories about life and the transitions that we face as we go through our own personal life-long journeys.

Submit your own travel stories in our first travel story contest (http://www.travelandtransitions.com/contests.htm) and have a chance to win an amazing adventure cruise on the Amazon River.

"Life is a Journey Explore New Horizons".

The story with photos is published at Stories and Photos (http://www.travelandtransitions.com/stories_photos/orlando_regional_history_center.htm)

Susanne Pacher sq@travelandtransitions.com

Are You Ready to Get Wet? An Explanation of the Canoe-Over-Canoe Rescue Technique

Wed, 20 Aug 2008 16:36:06 +0000

Are You Ready to Get Wet? An Explanation of the Canoe-Over-Canoe Rescue Technique

by: Joseph J. Breunig 3rd

Maneuvering a canoe does take a certain level of skill. Although one can easily maintain a sense of balance, a canoeist consciously needs to be aware of his surroundings at all time. On occasion, other boaters have been known to (either intentionally or unintentionally) create sets of waves that can topple the most experienced paddlers, in addition to the challenges that Mother Nature contributes.

Developing that experience of oaring proficiency can only occur when taking to the water. As a suggestion, plan your canoe outing with other canoeists. Besides the camaraderie of quality time spent with friends, traveling in small groups provides you with opportunities to perfect the "Cane-Over-Canoe" Rescue Technique. This technique is best performed when on any body of water. Once having mastered this procedure, an experienced canoe veteran not only has greater confidence in his environment, but has the added advantage of being able assist others with a capsized canoe.

So you're enjoying a wonderful day on the lake; suddenly and unexpectedly, you find yourself in the water with a swamped canoe. What do you do next?

1. Hopefully you've kept your composure - you make sure your companions (that were) sharing your canoe are okay - no one is drowning and no one is hurt.

2. Retrieve your paddles and other floating items. (For the sake of this discussion, I am assuming that the occupants know how to swim and that they are wearing their life jackets (PFDs) and not watching them drift away, aided by the wind and water currents.)

3. Transfer the contents of your submerged boat to a nearby and upright canoe. During this time, either a former passenger or the rescuing boat is hanging onto the overturned canoe (so that it doesn't also drift away).

4. Position the upside-down, swamped canoe so that one end is perpendicular (at right angles) to the center of the rescuing canoe (forming a "T"). The rescuing canoeists will need to slide towards the center of their watercraft.

5. Once they are ready to receive the upset canoe, the people in the water will push down the end of the canoe (located at the bottom of the "T"). This motion forces the opposite end of the canoe to lift, enabling the rescuers to pull and drag the (upside-down) canoe across its gunnels and maintain the right angles.

6. After both ends of the overturned canoe are above the water, the rescuers wait for gravity to drain the water from the capsized vessel.

7. Once sufficient water has been emptied, the rescuers will then turn the canoe right-side-up and carefully slide the back into the water and return to their seats.

8. Align and hold the two canoes aide-by-side, allowing the swimmers an opportunity to climb back into their watercraft. (Special Note: Do not transfer the retrieved items back into the righted canoe until everyone is re-positioned within their original boat. Sometimes people swamp the canoe when attempting to re-enter it.)

9. Once the swimmers are seated, the rescuers may hand over the paddles and belongings to the soaking, wet canoeists.

Practicing the aforementioned directions is an excellent method to re-enforce the lesson presented. Please feel free to share this information with others. If there is enough of an interest (at Bunganut Lake), then during my stay at the lake I could provide a "hands on" demonstration of this procedure with others having a canoe.

Special Note: In July 2004, my brother-in-law Mike Stunes and his brother Kevin, assisted me in the creation of a small video. The clip can be viewed by clicking on any of the graphics below. The video, (taken by my wife Joyce) demonstrates the crucial steps, starting at instruction #4. Enjoy! See the video at the bottom of the following page: http://www.bunganutlake.org/canoes.htm and click on one of the canoe graphics.

P.S. Special thanks go out to Karen, for the use of her yellow canoe. For without it, no rescue was possible.

P.P.S. No humans or wildlife were harmed in the making of this video! ;-D

About The Author

Joseph J. Breunig 3rd is the webmaster of Bunganut Lake Online.

Visit Bunganut Lake Online at: http://www.bunganutlake.org

Auto Sales Training in the 21st Century

Wed, 20 Aug 2008 16:31:10 +0000

Auto Sales Training in the 21st Century

by: Tim Davis

Auto sales training is definitely not what it used to be.

In the 70's, you could walk onto an auto dealers showroom floor, ask for a job and be selling a car that afternoon. No experience, no background to speak of, as well as (generally) no character.

The 80's changed little; however, technology began to take hold. Software began making its first entry into the world of auto sales. Consequently, auto sales training moved in a completely new direction with the first introduction and integration of technology.

Things were on the move.

The 90's introduced many changes. The market became extremely competitive, as technology continued to advance. Dealerships in the 90's began to embrace technology, albeit slowly.

Websites were being developed by every type of market. More and more dealers began realizing that having a website was no longer a luxury, but a necessity. With technology really beginning to take off, dealers were able to integrate many of their core processes, including auto sales training, creating a more cohesive dealership.

Then came the year 2000, ushering in the 21st century.

Dealers in this century have realized that in order to remain not only competitive, but just to remain on the map, they have to set themselves apart from the rest of their competition. They must take their auto sales training to the next level.

Just over 30 years ago, a guy could get a job and begin making sales that afternoon?now there are comprehensive auto sales training programs that manufacturers are making mandatory. Sales certification is on the rise and becoming a major incentive for the actual sales representatives in order to earn more income directly from the manufacturers themselves.

Technology has changed the way we train our staff.

Once upon a time, the computer was just a neat piece of equipment that took up space and required a ton of time just to learn how to operate. Today, with the ease of use, and vast array of applications, it has become a core aspect of every part of every business in the world.

Dealerships can engage distance programs in some of the best auto sales training programs available. By simply logging into a web application, sales reps of dealerships all around the country can engage in timely and informative sales strategies, no longer limited to what their individual sales managers can teach.

Today, in addition to technology, many other aspects of auto sales training have changed. Customer service, client retention, relationship building, prospecting, negotiation strategies, etc, are all huge aspects that dealerships today focus on in the auto sales training process.

Gone are the days where a guy/gal can simply go to a dealership, apply for a job?and within hours find themselves standing in front of a prospect wanting to buy the latest 2006 model. It just doesn't work like that any longer.

Dealers need to ensure that they not only have a professionally trained staff, but also one that has an incredible amount of character. Although many areas of sales have been criticized for years as being "shysters" and "unscrupulous," fortunately this is an area that the majority of dealers in the US have shed nicely.

By implementing new and technologically innovative methods in the auto sales training process, dealers have enabled their organizations to not only have a well informed staff, but also a more informed and receptive audience.

Auto dealers in the US have used technology to their advantage, and in the end we have all benefited. By creating an auto sales training process that takes advantage of these advances addressed above, dealerships have begun to really connect with their buying public. This has enabled respectable dealerships to really become a huge part of their local communities, which in the end is good for us all. Better relationships equal better prices.

Sign up for Tim?s 7 part mini-course to see how AutomatorPlus can help either you as a salesperson or you as a manager. Click here: http://www.automatorplus.com

About The Author

Tim Davis is the Marketing Director for Breiter Strom, an international marketing company based out of Lake Tahoe, Nevada. Tim has been a major contributor to the newest Breiter Strom product ?AutomatorPlus,? the product that has more dealerships buzzing than imaginable.

articles@automatorplus.com