The Consumer Journal
consumer information, reviews and news
Consumer Information and News
Which Domestic Airline Earns an "A" in Flight Delays?
As for determining which airline is committed to assuring customer satisfaction, no other airline in America delivers the type of quality service, economical prices and customer support that Southwest Airlines does.
Despite the February 2010 incident whereby an overweight film director, Kevin Smith was expelled from a flight due to a "safety concern," United, American and Delta do not compare in customer satisfaction. In fact, the non-profit foundation, Flyer's Rights.org gave Southwest Airlines, a resounding "A" for how the major carrier manages flight delays.
Instead of conceiving methods to bleed every cent from their passengers, the company is all about nurturing loyalty. At least once a month, Southwest emails its members the latest travel deals and destination promotions. In a recent, story, a retired passenger, who had not flown in 30-years was not only treated with complete professionalism, but was obliged to take a senior discount.
This morning, the customer-focused airline sent out an announcement promoting deals to Denver, Las Vegas and Chicago to name a few.
Upon a Web site visit to the airline lauded for not charging baggage fees, it is quite apparent that Southwest is so driven to cultivate consumer relations that their site features an interactive tool for sharing and exchanging vacation photos.
In recent news, Delta, American and JetBlue are seeking exemption of the FAA's hefty new tarmac delay penalty. Meanwhile, given the negative press surrounding United, American and Delta, it's quite doubtful that they will be encouraging their passengers to post their vacation time spent on the tarmac.
Additional Flight Delay Resource: Flyer's Rights
Holly Bentz (c) 2010 fruitionMedia
Cherry Tart Oatmeal Cookies - A Healthy Oatmeal Cookie Recipe
...searching for a
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Does the Compact Fluorescent Bulb Have a Bright Future?
...searching for a
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Consumer Alert: Google, Facebook and Linked In Are NOT Free
Ever ponder why Facebook, LinkedIn, and Google are so generous, providing free, convenient and resourceful tools? These digital-aged entities monetize consumer information. It's called data mining. The questionnaire about your favorite likes, dislikes, profession and other personal information are not posed to mail a gift, connect you with a new client, or ensure that your Internet experience is euphoric.
These perspicacious profiling tools are designed to help advertisers, marketers, and in certain cases, the United States government (aka your "big brother"), look out for you -- as in profile your very existence.
With cookies tracking search engine queries, instant messages and a slew of other online activities, Facebook, Google and LinkedIn are gleaning an arsenal of consumer data. For example, Facebook's privacy policy consists of several amicable rationalizations for aggregating user data. Below are a few compelling excerpts from Facebook's privacy policy:
Facebook privacy policy excerpts:
To serve social ads. We occasionally pair advertisements we serve with relevant information we have about you and your friends to make advertisements more interesting and more tailored to you and your friends. For example, if you become a fan of a Page, we may display your name and profile photo next to an advertisement for that Page that is displayed to your friends. We only share the personally identifiable information visible in the social ad with the friend who can see the ad. You can opt out of having your information used in social ads on this help page.
We do not own or run the applications and websites that you interact with through Facebook Platform, and while we try to enforce standards to protect your information, we cannot guarantee that they will follow our rules.
Examples of the types of information that applications and websites may have access to include...on Facebook: your name, your profile picture, your gender, your birthday, your hometown location (city/state/country), your current location (city/state/country), your political view, your activities, your interests, your musical preferences, television shows in which you are interested, movies in which you are interested, books in which you are interested, your favorite quotes, your relationship status, your dating interests, your relationship interests, your network affiliations, your education history, your work history, your course information, copies of photos in your photo albums, metadata associated with your photo albums (e.g., time of upload, album name, comments on your photos, etc.), the total number of messages sent and/or received by you, the total number of unread messages in your in-box, the total number of "pokes" you have sent and/or received, the total number of wall posts on your Wall, a list of user IDs mapped to your friends, your social timeline, notifications that you have received from other applications, and events associated with your profile.
In other words, Facebook's privacy policy conveys that any information posted on the site becomes the property of Facebook. Linked In has a similar 'privacy policy.'
Two year's ago, The Consumer Journal compared Google's privacy policy to its competitors: Yahoo, and AOL. Please click "Where to Search Online in Privacy" to read the article.
As more consumers become equipped with Google's mobile technology, Google will have the ability to track a decent percentage of the American population's virtual and real world moves.
The question for each consumer is how much is your personal information worth to you?
Holly Bentz (c) 2010 fruitionMedia
How to Handle the Toyota Recall
Toyota Recall - Due to a sticking accelerator pedal, Toyota issued a recall for an estimated $1.7 million vehicles. It is documented as the greatest vehicle recall in history. The proceeding list of models are affected by the recall:- 2009-2010 Matrix
- 2005-2010 Avalon
- 2007-2010 Tundra
- 2008-2010 Sequoia
- Certain 2007-2010 Camrys
- Certain 2010 Highlanders
- Certain 2009-2010 RAV4
- Certain 2009-2010 Corolla
Eleven other Toyota models have not been impacted by the recall, including:
- 4Runner
- Camry hybrids
- Highlander hybrids
- FJ Cruiser
- Land Cruiser
- Sienna
- Solara
- Tacoma
- Toyota Prius
- Venza
- Yaris
A source from Cars.com, says an investigation will determine how long the company has been aware of the problem. Individuals, familiar with the recall suggest the glitch maybe traceable to 2005.
Drivers, who experience the acceleration glitch, are advised to place both feet on the pedal, and shift the transmission gear into the neutral position. If the gear will not shift into neutral the engine should be powered off.
Although, Toyota has announced the "recall," the company is in the process of resolving the situation. Vehicle owners, who have not experienced the aforementioned hazard need not take any action. However, Toyota owners, who have noticed the sticky accelerator situation, should consult their local Toyota dealer.
Click on Toyota recall to read more information.
- 2009-2010 Matrix
- 2005-2010 Avalon
- 2007-2010 Tundra
- 2008-2010 Sequoia
- Certain 2007-2010 Camrys
- Certain 2010 Highlanders
- Certain 2009-2010 RAV4
- Certain 2009-2010 Corolla
- 4Runner
- Camry hybrids
- Highlander hybrids
- FJ Cruiser
- Land Cruiser
- Sienna
- Solara
- Tacoma
- Toyota Prius
- Venza
- Yaris
Holly Bentz (c) 2009 fruitionMedia
Consumer Information: How to find a good doctor
...How to find a good doctor and make the ...
<< MORE >>Procrastinating Consumer Tips
How procrastinators can defer their Christmas shopping and save more money in the long run?
Procrastinators need not change their languid, indolent ways. There are six ways to defer the shopping frenzy of Christmas. Besides, it’s after Christmas when goods are on real price reductions. In the meantime, use these Christmas deferral-shopping tips:
1) Purchase a box of Christmas cards
2) Visit the retailer Web site or grab the store catalog of where you plan to do your shopping
3) Print or cut photos of your gift list
4) Remove a holiday greeting card from the box
5) Write a message
6) Place the photo of the gift item in the card
And voilà, revisit your Christmas shopping obligations when the prices are on clearance.
Holly Bentz (c) 2009 fruitionMedia
Bargain Shoppers Beware of Consumer Scams for Electronic Deals
Holiday shoppers in quest of electronic deals should beware of unbelievable discounts that are too good to be true. The inability to see and touch products on the Internet makes it hard to detect consumer scams. Bogus Web sites lure bargain shoppers in with amazingly, low-priced electronic deals. The consumer scam not only charges the shopper for the non-delivered goods, but--also absconds the consumer’s credit card information.
Use these consumer smart tactics to avoid falling prey to a holiday bargain scam:
Review the site’s “FAQ,” “Contact us,” and “Terms of Service” pages. Look for an abundance of grammatical errors. Since, many holiday bargain scams originate from other countries, misspelled words are a common telltale sign.
Compare the same product prices to other sites. If there is more than a $50 discrepancy for popular consumer electronics, proceed with caution.
Check the bargain site’s reputation. Go to Google. Enter the name of the company, followed by a comma, and the word “complaint.” Also, visit the Better Business Bureau, RipOffReports.com and Complaints.com, on each site, enter the organization’s name.
If you decide to buy:
Make sure the site has the proper security measures in place. As you head to the check out page, and before entering your credit card information, look for the icon of a padlock in the upper right corner of the browser. If the site is unsecured, abandon the check out, as it places credit card information at risk.
Also, verify that the Web site’s name matches the company identity in the payment center or check out page. If the names are not the same, be sure to run a check on the alias before completing the transaction. Unscrupulous companies will change their name to avoid exposure.
Maxim: Not all electronic deals are worth the bargain of becoming a consumer scam victim.
Holly Bentz (c) 2009 fruitionMedia
Safe Holiday Shopping Tips
As a thawing economy motivates shoppers to open their wallets, cyber crooks have several techniques to commander personal identities and consumer credit account information. Follow these suggestions to ensure safe online holiday shopping.
- Don’t click email links.
Unless you personally know the sender, don't click on links that are embedded in the contents of emails. Hackers transmit email “phishing” messages to motivate unsuspecting recipients to click on links, enabling an operating system to be violated and subjected to malware and other online invasions. Even if the offer has a killer deal, rather then click the link, use a different browser window to access the site. Also, be sure to redeem any coupon codes by cutting and pasting them into the proper field.
The aforementioned online safety tip includes merchant emails links, too. Unfortunately, cyber crooks are so enterprising that they have been known to replicate company logos, luring t their victims to counterfeit sites to acquire their account information. So, if you receive an email, if possible — contact the company by phone to confirm that the communication is genuine.
- No public shopping.
Never do holiday shopping via public, unsecured Wi-Fi networks.
- Check the security certificate.
Since, Internet pirates are so artistic at replicating major brand Web sites, misleading consumers to make a purchase, always check the security certificate, by double clicking the padlock icon, in the top-right corner of the browser.
Holly Bentz (c) 2009 fruitionMedia
Consumer Information Christmas Scams
HAVE A HOLLY, JOLLY SCAM-FREE CHRISTMAS. As retailers hope for a prosperous shopping season, cyber criminals expect to bilk as many consumers as possible out of credit card numbers and their personal identities. According to Consumer Reports` 2009 State of the Net Survey, cyber criminals have racked up more than $8 billion over the last two years from Internet shoppers.
Forrester Research forecasts an active online buying season. It is one where hackers, Internet thieves and other online fraudsters are busy deploying malicious, tactics to abscond consumer's private confidential information. Here are three online scams to avoid:
Charity
Hackers are using the season of holiday generosity to exploit consumers' goodwill, sending email requests for contributions for well-known charities. Meanwhile, the ploy is designed to commandeer credit card information, personal identities, and of course donations.
Social Networks
Don't be socially bamboozled by the "be my friend" request. Programmers are pirating personal information via social networking sites through emails.
Here's how the scam works: Web criminals email authentic appearing emails from (Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn) with the ulterior motive to configure malware for the purpose of stealing personal information. Once the recipient clicks the link, they have virtually relinquished their identity, providing social security numbers, addresses, bank accounts, credit card numbers as well as passwords,
Shipments
Submitting fake invoices from UPS, Federal Express and U.S. Customs Service, online offenders send email counterfeit notifications, installing malware to intercept credit card and other personal information.
Additional Consumer fraud articles:
Holly Bentz (c) 2009 fruitionMedia
A Duality of Fashion
The Olsen twins, Mary Kate and Ashley are the clothiers of two bipolar styles.
There’s the Olsenboy label. Dubbed after the Olsen’s ancestral surname, the label
will be available at JCPenney in February 2010, showcasing, jeans, belts, bags,
and such for only $20 – $50.
At Neiman Marcus, the relative brand, named after their siblings, Elizabeth and James
is a high-end collection of sweaters, dresses, pants and so forth ($200+).
Check out this stunning mini-dress in blue velvet, called the Luna Dress.
Holly Bentz (c) 2009 fruitionMedia
Best Toys for Toddlers - Under $20
Three Toys Top Toddler Play-list
Most parents find that the more expensive the toy, the less the appeal. This year, The Consumer Journal went shopping at Target for valuable toys for children under the age of three. Toy selections were based on the following criteria:
• Learning and cerebral engagement
• Safety
• Priced Under $20
• Age
As it turns out, few toys offer the same overall entertainment and educational value that we found with the following best toys for toddlers.
___________________________________________________________________
Fisher-Price See' n Say The Farmer Says
How it works:
Remember the old Fisher-Price See' n Say The Farmer Says toy. The Farmer Says used to require the pull of a string. These days, the toy works by turning a dial. It sings nursery rhymes, makes animal noises and tests a child's intelligence with little quiz vignettes.
Safety:
There are no worries of lead poisoning, bodily harm or swallowing a magnet.
Learning and cerebral engagement:
The multi-sensory object serves as an auditory and visual stimulus. For the price, value and edification qualities, Fisher Price's nursery rhyme toy makes for a smart choice.
Value
For only $12.99, this safe, educational tool remains a priceless classic.
Age:
6 months +
___________________________________________________________________
E- Z ABC
How it works:
E- Z ABC simplifies letter identification and makes alphabet sequencing a snap. Players aged 3 and up match pictures to sounds, and the first letter of each image to the alphabet. With so many game options, requiring one to four players, E – Z ABC assures fun, interactive and competitive learning.
Safety:
puzzle pieces are large enough to deter choking and free of lead and magnetic materials.
Learning and cerebral engagement:
E- Z ABC is an interactive learning tool, which simplifies letter identification and makes alphabet sequencing a snap.
Price Value:
The included puzzle, game and learning variations make the nominal $19.99 investment well worth the price value.
Age:
3+ years up
___________________________________________________________________
Lego DUPLO SET DUPLO SET
How it works:
Children transform plastic geometric shaped pegs into the architecture inspired by their imagination.
Safety:
Free of toxins and magnets, remind Lego players to keep pieces out of the mouth.
Learning and cerebral engagement:
Although LEGO is not a new toy; it continues to rank high for kids, promoting cerebral and creative thought processes. Legos build on a child’s creativity, enabling them to apply reasoning to their ideas.
Price value:
For $12.99, this temporary price cut is a real steal at Target.
Age:
Generally, Legos are not intended for children under the age of 4; however this set is made for toddlers age 1 and up.
Holly Bentz (c) 2009 fruitionMedia
Eco Paints and Primers Set to Meet New Green Standards
Paints and Primers Set to Meet New Green Standards
What is the distinction between eco-paints and traditional wall paint finishes?
Starting January 2010, paints, primers and other sealants are slated to adhere to new eco-friendly guidelines
Although top brand paint manufacturers have been touting paints and primers as eco-friendly with low to no volatile organic compounds (VOCs), there were not any standards to substantiate the marketing claims. For the last three years, industry insiders have been blaming the low to no VOC “green washing” conundrum on a lack of standardization.
In the past, paint, primer and varnish manufacturers hyperbolized “eco-friendly,” solutions. When in fact, many of these products during the point-of-purchase endured a whopping injection of VOC colorants.
Effective January 2010, paint manufacturers and stores will be accountable for measuring the level of VOC added during the point of purchase. For example, any flat topcoat, with a colorant of more than 100 grams of VOC added at the point-of-sale, would not be deemed a low VOC, eco-paint.
Associated with creating a new paint smell, when paints dry, volatile organic compounds emit carcinogenic solvents into the air. Environmental experts attribute the smell of VOCs to hindering the ozone, and triggering a myriad of adverse effects, including headaches, dizziness, respiratory distress and watery eyes.
For more tips regarding eco-paints visit
Holly Bentz (c) 2009 fruitionMedia
Tire Inflation Facts
Inflatable Tire Facts
How Much Air Should I Put in My Tires? Do you know what your car's proper tire pressure is?
- Market research shows that a little over 50 percent of drivers are unaware of what the proper tire inflation is for their vehicle.
- Underrated amongst American drivers, proper tire inflation is a paramount issue. Most cars describe the appropriate tire pressure on the driver’s doorjamb.
- Less than 20 percent of motorists know how to correctly check their tire pressure.
- The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration NHTSA says that 1 of every 3 vehicles has a minimum of one under-inflated tire.
- During the chilly temperatures of December through March, winter tires remain supple, providing better traction to accommodate snow. But winter tires are not conducive for warmer temperature, where they are vulnerable to the wear and tear of hot roads.
- With adequately inflated tires, the average vehicle saves a minimum of three percent on gas mileage.
Holly Bentz (c) 2009 fruitionMedia
Consumers Choose Between Sex and Cell phones
Which is more important to you --- tinkering with your cell phone or doing the wild thing?
In Chicago, a recent consumer research study polled 300 participants, whether they would select their cell phone over sex. The survey results showed that three out of 10 would give up sex for their cell phone.
However, if one analyzes the numbers, 179 respondents were female; 121 were men; and more than 50 percent of the participants were married.
So, the validity of the results is questionable if one considers:
- How many of those people actually enjoy sex?
- Aside from texting, conversing and exchanging photos, what else do those cell phone-loving respondents do with their communication devices?
- Are some of the people who have an affliction for their cell phone capable of interacting with others one-on-one, sans technology?
- Were any of the respondents sex workers, who might be worn out from their day job?
- Given the almost 2+ million people who reside in Chicago, is a survey of 300 participants an accurate assessment of the population's cell phone preferences.
Holly Bentz (c) 2009 fruitionMedia
Which would you choose: Sex or your cell phone?
Add your two cents.
Read more about this topic: Chicago Breaking News
Chocolatier Rewards Loyalty
Godiva lures chocolate addicts in with a legitimate excuse to consume chocolate: the Godiva Chocolate Rewards Club. The loyalty program is so tempting that it includes a free piece of chocolate each month. With some 270 boutiques across America, members are welcomed to attend exclusive in-store dipping events. From now, through the end of October, Godiva rewards members may sample the fall truffles collection, caramel apple bark and pumpkin spice truffles on select dates.
To learn more or join the self-indulgent program, click on Godiva Rewards.
Holly Bentz (c) 2009 fruitionMedia
6-Train Rides Afford Natural Exploration
6-Train Rides Afford Natural Exploration
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Fashion Wise: Sorting Through the Keepers and the Cast-Offs
Carbohydrate Intake Meal Recommendations
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Investment Fraud Detection
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The Mortgage Process and Consumer Rights
Since the great home foreclosure conundrum, legislators passed a series of protective consumer-friendly guidelines for the mortgage process. These rules offer consumers the opportunity to evaluate every aspect of their financial transactions, alleviating any last minute, unforeseen, out-of-pocket closing costs. The newly instated Federal Reserve regulations assure home buyers and borrowers the following rights, stipulations and requirements during the mortgage process:
- With the exception of the credit check, financial and lending institutions are unauthorized to collect astronomical fees, until the borrower receives the mortgage cost disclosures.
- Within three-days of the loan application, initial mortgage disclosures must be presented to the borrower. Consumers have the right to cancel an application if they do not receive a loan fee itemization -- three-business days subsequent to the application.
- Until the borrower receives a truth-in-lending disclosure and an annual percentage rate (APR) calculation, out-of-pocket, upfront application charges are unauthorized.
- Three days prior to the scheduled closing, lenders must issue a copy of the real estate appraisal.
- During the mortgage process, borrowers are entitled to an additional seven day rescinding period, if the APR of the loan increases by .125. or an eighth of a percentage point.
Holly Bentz (c) 2009 fruitionMedia
Lipodissolve Information
What is lipodissolve and is it a safe solution for weight loss? << MORE >>
Refund Returns Policies
A week ago, I purchased a pair of pants from Macy's. Four days later, my girlfriend bought the same pair of pants at Macy's for 40 percent off the price that I paid. Am I entitled to a refund on the price difference?
As long as you have a receipt, many major retailers will reimburse or credit consumers on the difference for sales items discounted within a specific time of the original purchase date. Macy's has such a return refund policy, as long as the item is claimed within 10-days from the original purchase date. Bloomingdale's does too. At Nordstrom and Saks Fifth Avenue, consumers can claim a refund on the price difference within two weeks of the purchase date. Unfortunately, the same rule is not applicable to purchases made online.
Holly Bentz (c) 2009 fruitionMedia
Fall Fashion 2009 Trends
...<< MORE >>
Reminiscent of the 80s, fall fashion 2009 revisits some gaudy couture. Here are
seven fashion trends to add to your style file this autumn.
Military Jacket - Trench Coat
The military jacket and trench coat are in full swing for a tailored look.
Accessories to Fashion
Studs punctuate boots, shoes, purses, belts and even dresses. With tassels, sequins and lace,
embellishments walk a fine line between overbearing and stylish.
Muted Metallics
Pewter, copper and iron are the metallic hues of the season.
Jeans/Pants
Leggings and skinny jeans appear sleek with a loose-fitting tunic or blazer.
Fabrics/Materials
Leather and tweed make a modest comeback.
Topsy Turvy
In terms of the top or dress, bustiers define femininity, circa 2009.
The Thigh Bootie
Boots scale new limits, the thigh that is. Beware, thigh booties are not intended
for all body sizes, shapes and ages.
Holly Bentz (c) 2009 fruitionMedia
Home Buyer Tax Credit Alert
For the would be, first-time home buyer, the expiration date to purchase a new abode to qualify for the Obama administration's federal tax credit is rapidly approaching. In order to claim the credit on their 2009 tax return, new home real estate purchases must be closed by November 30, 2009. Additional qualifications, benefits specific guidelines include the following:
- The tax credit includes up to 10 percent of the property's purchase price, or a maximum of $8,000.
- American home buyers, who have not owned a residential property over the last three years, are eligible for the tax credit.
- Income influences the amount of eligibility. For example, married citizens, earning an adjusted gross income of $150,000 or less are entitled to the full credit; whereas, a couple with an income of $170,000 or more would be approved for a reduced tax credit.
- If the buyer does not reside in the home for a minimum of three-years, the credit requires reimbursement.
For additional information, visit :
- FHA.gov
- Federal Housing Tax Credit
How-to Identify Green Restaurants
As going green rapidly becomes ingrained in the American ethos, restaurants across the United States are embracing the eco-friendly movement to curtail costs, market their offerings, and help save the planet. For savvy foodies, there are 10-indications of an authentically green eatery.
- Menu is comprised of predominantly organic produce from local harvesters or even their own garden. The critically renowned French Laundry cultivates their own vegetables.
- Recycles all bottles and aluminum materials.
- Minimizes the use of paper, promoting the restaurant online.
- Most of the employees bike, walk or drive a hybrid to work.
- Supports a community agriculture program. Many Chicago restaurants, including renowned Rick Bayless' Topolabampo, endorse various Midwestern farmer affiliations.
- Conserves energy, when the restaurant is closed.
- The design exhibits sustainable furnishings.
- Never serves plastic-bottled water. (Preferably makes their own).
- Illuminates space with LED lighting and/or adorns tables with soy candles.
- Doggie bags are fashioned from recyclable materials.
How-to go Green at Home
Use these three easy tips for living green...
Clean the air vents. Central heating and air conditioning systems are dust collectors. To prevent dust molecules from recirculating, clean vents with a moist dust cloth. Then, take another cloth to wipe the vents completely dry.
Sanitize the sponges. Household sponges harbor microbes. After washing the dishes, sink and tub, place sponges in the microwave for 35-45 seconds. The radiation eliminates any bacteria and germs.
Discard plastic or silk plants. Since plastic plants and silk floral arrangements are dust magnets, replace them with real houseplants. Consider indoor plants that do not necessitate full sunlight. For instance, red leaf caladium, cacti and aloe vera plants serve as natural air filters, absorbing negative air molecules.
Holly Bentz (c) 2009 fruitionMedia
Why the Internet is Different for Chinese Consumers
Does Yahoo spy for the Chinese government? Is Google rigging the search engine results in China?
Chinese online consumers experience the Internet differently from Americans. With a population of approximately 1,330,044,544 billion [Source: GeoHive.com], the Chinese government feels a need to monitor and control citizen’s online activities and Internet experience.
It appears as though Yahoo has found a profitable new segment of advertising: Cyber-spying. Anytime, a Chinese citizen passes or disseminates information that the regime deems a "conflict of interest," Yahoo submits the details of the transmission to the government (in example: the IP address and time of communication).
To compete in the Chinese marketplace, Google filters search engine results. For example, an image or photo search of the phrase, “Tiananmen Square” returns results unlike the ones rendered in America. Since certain acts of violence and human rights are reminiscent of Tiananmen Square, Google filters any negative associations (per the government’s regulations). The three-minute Google video, titled: “Tiananmen Square Massacre” is filtered out of the Chinese version of Google. Instead, the same Google search in China returns a depiction of happy families, tourists and the expansive landmark.
Meanwhile, if Yahoo is spying for the government and Google is cooking the search results, it makes one wonder how authentic our Internet experience is.
Related articles: What Happened to Google's Transparency?
Holly Bentz (c) 2009 fruitionMedia
Reducing the Summer Energy Bill
Three tactics lower the cost of keeping home cool...MORE
Is there an energy efficient tactic for reducing the electric bill without compromising staying cool and comfortable?
Three simple tactics lower the summer electric bill. Starting with the air conditioner or central air unit, the replacement of dirty filters lightens the power load of any heating or cooling system. According to energy efficiency reports published by the Environmental Protection Agency, 78 degrees is the optimal atmospheric setting to reduce energy costs by 2 to 10 percent. For maximum energy efficiency, place the cooling system on auto, allowing the system to power up anytime the temperature rises above the designated setting.
Prior to vacating the house for two or more hours, raise the temperature's automatic setting by two to three degrees.
Holly Bentz (c) 2009 fruitionMedia
Dining Guide Reveals Chicago's Best Restaurants
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Backyard Party Theme Ideas
Is there a recipe for hosting an unforgettable summer backyard bash?
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Airlines Shrink Seating to Maximize Capacity
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PC Virus Report
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Migraine Headaches: What Sufferers Should Know
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Dental Specialist IQ
Need braces, cosmetic dental surgery or your teeth cleaned? Refer to this dental specialist resource... << MORE >>
Where to Find Nutritional Info?
Looking for unbiased nutritional information? Here are several nutritional resources for keeping good health<< MORE >>
Consumer Review: Service Live
Service Live review -- how Sear's new online contracting service rates...<< MORE >>
Are Onions Healthy?
Do onions contain antioxidants? Are onions linked to well-being?
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International Travel Crime Prevention
Traveling Abroad: How-to reduce the chances of being mugged, scammed or the next crime victim...<< MORE >>
Shopping for Fashion Flattery
How to shop for fashion that flatters your figure...<< MORE >>
Which Sheds Faster Weight Loss: Cutting Calories or More Exercise?
Find out if pizza and French fries are conducive for your diet and if it's really necessary to exercise...<< MORE >>
Is Travel Insurance Vacation Wise?
Is travel insurance really a feasible vacation option or a waste of money?<< MORE >>
Google Latitude Reveals Your Geolocation
Find out how Google enables consumers to track their friends, family and lovers...<< MORE >>
Loan Qualifications for 'Making Home Affordable'
Do you qualify for Obama's New Making Home Affordable program? Check out the loan qualifications...<< MORE >>
Energy Appliances Qualify for Energy Tax Credit
Find out what buying and using energy efficient household appliances means for your money...<< MORE >>
Consumer Trends: Identity Theft
Find out who's the most vulnerable to identity theft...<< MORE >>
Retailers Send Designer Bargain Warnings
Learn which retailers send out early fashion deal notifications...<< MORE >>
Luxury Retailer Opens Designer Bargain Outlets
Which retailer is opening new discount stores? Find out if a new designer bargain outlet is scheduled to open in your neighborhood...<< MORE >>
Are Portobello Mushrooms Good for Weight Loss Nutrition?
Are portobello mushrooms really nutritional? Check out these interesting facts about this popularly grown fungus... << MORE >>
Mortgage Tips: Loan Qualifications
How to qualify for a mortgage? What are the down-payment minimums?...<< MORE >>
Reducing Auto Insurance Premiums
Review these cost-saving strategies for lowering car insurance premiums.<< MORE >>
Consumer Advice: Repairing Credit Report Errors
Which credit reporting errors can consumers dispute on their credit report?<< MORE >>
Deconstructing the Contents of a Bad Email Scam
Read between the lines of an email scheme. Check out the latest in online fraud...<< MORE >>
Who Signals the Best Cell Phone Service?
Cell phone reviews: Which provider has the best cell phone service: T-Mobile, AT & T, Verizon or Sprint/Nextel?<< MORE >>
Credit Bureau Report Reviews
Learn which credit bureau report features the most comprehensive information about the your credit history<< MORE >>
Find a Contractor: The Easy Way
How to hire the right general contractor...<< MORE >>
How-to Claim a Free Credit Check
There are four to five cases in which consumers are eligible for a free credit check. Find out if you qualify...<< MORE >>
Eco-Friendly Valentine's Day Ideas
Try these green, recession-proof Valentine's day tactics on for a passionate, but eco-friendly, February 14th...<< MORE >>
Airline Performance Report
Learn which airlines have the best on-time record. Discover where airline passengers can complain for satisfaction...<< MORE >>
Designer Bargain Hunting Tips
How-to shop for designer bargains like a fashionista...<< MORE >>
Prepackaged Weight Loss 101
Which is better: Weight loss with Jenny, Weight Watchers or Nutri-System?<< MORE >>
Where to Compare Credit Cards
Compare credit cards, learn about hidden fees and find the best credit card rewards' program<< MORE >>
Is It Eco-Friendly Fashion or Greenwashing?
Eco-friendly fashion and greenwashing are subject to cynicism...<< MORE >>