How To Find A Missing Person The Methods Investigators Use in Their Work

It is not always necessary to hire a private investigator to search for a missing person. In fact, the time consuming task of investigating a missing person can be done by almost anyone.

As long as a person understands and follows the procedure provided herein, they can do the job of searching for a missing person as well as a hired detective.

Before beginning, realize that you must maintain a detailed record of your investigation. Keep this and copies of any correspondence in a file.

Begin your investigation at the point where the subject was last seen and radiate in ever-growing circles. When you come up with a solid lead, your search will then go only in one direction.

Contact the subject's immediate family very early in your investigation. See if they have any ideas. From there you should contact your subject's closest friends and then the neighbors.

Now widen your search further by questioning other associates of the subject, like the hairdresser, bartender, gas station attendant or newspaper boy. These people must not be overlooked as they are all sources of possible information.

More than likely, when you have completed the task of speaking to all these people, you will have some good leads. But if you wish to further the investigation, use as many of the ten following sources as you need.

POST OFFICE

How To Cash In With Simple Formulas (Mostly 1 & 2 Ingredients Available in Drugstores)

You can copy any of these Formulas and sell to other Agents, or put them together in packages - under your own name - and sell to Agents.

The specialty formulas presented within the pages of this report were carefully selected for the explicit purpose of placing the beginner with limited capital in a position to manufacture quick-sell products. Every one of them represents a popular product of wide appeal and genuine merit. No expensive equipment is needed to prepare these products. In most cases, you do the mixing, compounding and packaging from your kitchen table. If directions are adhered to faithfully, results are sure to be satisfactory.

Borated Talcum Powder - Gradually rub 1/2 part Perfume Oil into 5 parts Magnesium Carbonate. Add to this 90 parts Talc and 5 parts Boracic Acid. Mix thoroughly and sieve. Put up in 12-ounce shaker boxes and sell .

Solid Perfume - Melt together 33 parts Paraffin and 66 parts White Petrolatum. Stir until cool, and then add 1 part Perfume Oil. Allow to settle. Cut into 1-inch blocks, wrap in tin foil and sell.

Suntan Oil - Mix together thoroughly 25 parts Olive Oil with 24-1/2 parts Peanut Oil refined. If desired, 1/2 part Perfume Oil can be added for scent. Put up in 6-ounce bottles and sell.

Powder Fire Extinguisher - Mix together 5 parts Common Salt, 1/2 part Sulphate of Soda, 1/2 part Silicate of Soda, 1/4 part Chloride of Calcium,. 2 parts Baking Soda and 6 parts Ground Rice. Pack in one-pound long tin tubes with pull-off caps and sell. To use simply scatter the powder on the blaze.

How To Analyze A Rip-Off Scheme

This review is taken DIRECTLY from a piece of "junk mail." It is or the program that starts out with the heading: "Before You Decide To Throw This Away, Please Read The Enclosed At Least Once - Then Decide. This is Not a Chain Letter! I Threw The Program in The Trash."

The first paragraph reads: "I had received this program before and threw it away, but later I wondered if I shouldn't have given it a try. Of course, I had no idea who to contact to get a copy, so I had to wait until I was mailed another copy of the program - eleven months passed, then it came. I DIDN'T throw this one away. I made $41,000 on the first try!!" Signed by D. Wilburn, Muncie IN.

In order to get your attention quick, Mr. or Ms Wilburn shares their experience of making the mistake of throwing the letter away. A normal person will say to themselves: "I don't want to make the same mistake Wilburn did. He had to wait another 11 months before he had the chance, so I better really read this thing." But in reality you'll find out that this piece of garbage has been floating around for years and if you miss this copy, you'll get another one tomorrow or the day after.

The next thing you see is a bold headline reading: "You are about to make at least $50,000 in less than 90 days - in the comfort of your own home. Read the enclosed program, then read it again." The average person is skeptical but the idea of money has been planted in your mind right up front. This will cause you to read a little while longer.

How Pawn Shops Work

A pawnbroker makes loans on personal property left as collateral. The property can be redeemed when the loan plus interest is repaid.

The interest rates for pawnshops, which may be regulated by state or local laws, may range from 5% to 6% a month. Loans can usually be renewed, but only if the interest for the original period has been paid.

Pawnbrokers will accept a variety of personal property as collateral. Usually, items that are small or of modest value (jewelry, clocks, computers, camcorders, silverware, etc.) Brokers won't lend more money than they think they can get if the pledged item is not redeemed and has to be sold.

When a pledged item is not redeemed, brokers are required to notify pawners that the loan period has expired and to give them a final opportunity to redeem their personal property before the broker has the right to sell the item. In some jurisdictions, brokers may keep all the money received from the sale of the unredeemed pledge. In other cases, the broker may only keep the original loan and any interest due, but must turn any excess over to the pawner.

In many states, pawnbrokers are required by law to file with the local police a daily list of items that have been pledged. They must report and give a description of the object along with serial number and other points of identification.

This gives the police an opportunity to check these pledge items against any list of reported stolen items. In somebody buys a stolen item from a pawnbroker, it must be returned, and the broker must refund the purchase price to the customer.

DEBT LIMIT. Installment debt should not exceed 10% of take-home pay. A debt ratio of 20% indicates trouble ahead. However, when computing for your debt ratio, you must not include mortgage payments in the amount of debt.

HOW INFORMATION OVERLOADING WORKS

There are many schools of thought on how to write a successful direct-response ad, letter or brochure. Some say you need to be subtle, some say be harsh, some say be round-about, some say be direct. There is one technique, though, that is coming to the forefront as one of the most successful to employ.

Info-Loading is the style of overloading an advertsement with information about your product or service. The theory is, you give the customer more information than they'd ever want on your product/service, and they'll feel more confident about you and what you offer. Also, the customer that actually reads through it all is the one who's interested enough to buy what you offer. The good news is, it works!

Here's how to do it. Say you're planning a quarter-page display ad in a magazine. Instead of leaving a lot of white space, so it looks open, and instead of putting pictures in to catch the eye, fill the whole space with text! Load it with as much information as you can fit in, without making it unreadable. To prevent it from looking like a grey blur when the reader's eyes scan through the page, put a bold, black box around the ad, a bold headline, and emphasize important words and phrases with bold print.

You can do the same thing with a mailing. Put together a four-page sales letter loaded with copy, then add a brochure/flyer that re-emphasizes the important points in even greater detail.

A few cautions with this technique. First, make sure you actually have something to say! We are so conditioned to being economical with our words in advertising that it'll be hard to info-load without feeling repetitious. Instead of rambling on about features, tell customers every single benefit they'll get from your product/service. BENEFIT is the important word.

Give Info-Loading a try. Depending on your audience and what you're trying to sell, you may find that info-loading can load more sales into your bank account!

HOW DO DIRECTORIES AND SUBDIRECTORIES WORK ON MY COMPUTER?

The subject of directories and subdirectories is one of the hardest concepts for people to understand but a very necessary part of automating your day-to-day business operations with your computer.

Regardless of whether you work in DOS or Windows - you need to group similar files together so you can find them easier and for your computer to function more properly. It's kind of like moving into a new neighborhood only to find your favorite supermarket on the east side of town, your barber shop on the west side, your post office in the north end and your babysitter in the south end. You would be spending more time commuting back and forth between all these places than if they were all grouped together just a few miles from your house.

The easiest way to help you understand how subdirectories and directories work, is best understood by anyone who has worked in an office environment before. Every office contained a file cabinet with separate folders for letters of the alphabet. Normally, each letter of the alphabet was also separated into manila folders, each continuing information on a certain person or company. Your telephone directory is even organized in this similar manner.

Directories and subdirectories on a computer system is EXACTLY the same thing. Your computer hard drive is the main file cabinet. A directory is similar to every letter of the alphabet. A subdirectory is similar to the separate manila folders that go inside the particular directory. But the great thing about a computer system is that there is NO LIMIT to the subdirectories you can make. Your file cabinet would get too big if you did this.

That's why, when you purchase a new software program, you make one directory for it - then copy the files to make the program work "into" it. (If your software comes with a self-installing program, it will automatically do this for you.) For example, I have a main directory called "Graphics" on my hard drive. Then I have several subdirectories "inside" this main "Graphics" directory called "People," "Animals," "Office," etc. This way, when I want a graphic of a person, I will know to look for it in the main "Graphics" directory, inside the "People" subdirectory.

Getting Your Vehicle Ready for Winter

Mechanical failure--an inconvenience any time it occurs--can be deadly in the winter. Preventive maintenance is a must. Besides, a well maintained vehicle is more enjoyable to drive, will last longer, and could command a higher resale price.

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Some of the following tips can be performed by any do-it-yourselfer; others require the skilled hands of an auto technician.

First things first. Read your owner's manual and follow the manufacturer's recommended service schedules.

• Engine Performance--Get engine driveability problems (hard starts, rough idling, stalling, diminished power, etc.) corrected at a good repairshop. Cold weather makes existing problems worse. Replace dirty filters--air, fuel, PCV, etc.

• Fuel--Put a bottle of fuel de-icer in your tank once a month to help keep moisture from freezing in the fuel line. Note that a gas tank which is kept filled helps keep moisture from forming.

• Oil--Change your oil and oil filter as specified in your manual--more often (every 3,000 miles) if your driving is mostly stop-and-go or consists of frequent short trips.

• Cooling Systems--The cooling system should be completely flushed and refilled about every 24 months. The level, condition, and concentration of the coolant should be checked periodically. (A 50/50 mix of anti- freeze and water is usually recommended.)

DIYers, never remove the radiator cap until the engine has thoroughly cooled!

Getting Your Vehicle Ready for Summer

Summer's heat, dust, and stop-and-go traffic will take their toll on your vehicle. Add the effects of last winter, and you could be poised for a breakdown. You can lessen the odds of mechanical failure through periodic maintenance...Your vehicle should last longer and command a higher resale price, too!

Some of the following tips are easy to do; others require a skilled auto technician.

Getting Started--The best planninG guide is your owner's manual. Read it; and follow the manufacturer's recommended service schedules.

• Air Conditioning--A Marginally operating system will fail in hot weather. Have the system examined by a qualified technician.

• Cooling System--The greatest cause of summer breakdowns is overheating. The cooling system should be completely flushed and refilled about every 24 months. The level, condition, and concentration of the coolant should be checked periodically. (A 50/50 mix of anti-freeze and water is usually recommended.)

DIYers, Never remove the radiator cap until the engine has thoroughly cooled! The tightness and condition of drive belts, clamps, and hoses should be checked by a pro.

FREE ADVERTISING FOR YOUR BUSINESS

There are many legitimate ways to get discount advertising, and many ways to get so-called "free" advertising.

This report is about a way to get the cost of your ADS 100% covered, so that your advertising costs you nothing. If done right, you'll even profit from it. There is some work involved, but it's easy, enjoyable work.

First, you need to have your own display ads ready to use. These can be one column inch, two column inch, 3" x 6" or whatever size. What you are going to do is to create your own ad sheet. In other words, you will put your ads on a page, then sell the rest of the space to other advertisers who want to reach the same market as you. Their payments will cover the cost of YOUR ads reaching that market.

Ideally, you will have some small ads on one side of the page, with other advertisers taking the rest of that side, then you can have either more ads or a full page flyer on the back side, with all costs covered, INCLUDING your mailing expenses.

Here's a short course in creating an ad sheet. First, create a heading on a piece of paper. Don't make it too big, because you'll take up valuable ad space. Try to keep it to one inch tall. Leave room for your ad rates, which we'll figure out later. Next, divide the rest of the page the long way into three columns.

If you use a one inch heading, and leave a quarter-inch margin on the top and bottom, you'll have three columns that are seven inches tall, or 21 column inches (3 columns x 7 inches). If you figure your ad rates at $5 per inch, going to 1,000 opportunity seekers, you can get a maximum of $105 from a one-sided ad sheet. If you use both sides, you can get a maximum of $225 (you get an extra inch of advertising per column on the back side, since you don't need the heading).

How do you get other advertisers? Buy inexpensive ads in the ad sheets you receive in the mail. You can use the least expensive, one column inch ads. Tell the name of your ad sheet, the circulation, the ad rates, and, of course, your name and address. This is all you have to do.

If your rates are competitive with the other ad sheets, you'll get the advertisers. Don't worry. When you receive their to reach 1,000 people. Printing them will be $20 - $30. First class postage, which costs $.29 at this time, would be $290 alone. How can you cover that, along with printing expenses, with only $225 or less? There are a few different ways. First, you can advertise a "big mail."

Do this with one inch ad sheet ads. Tell people they can receive a collection of your best offers free by sending postage. Put together a selection of your advertising flyers, along with your ad sheet, and the envelope you will be sending them in. Weigh them to get the number of ounces, and find out the required postage. Put that amount in your ad ("send three first class stamps to:"). You will get a lot of orders that way.

Another way is to use a circular mailing service. These are usually run by people who have their own offers that they want to mail for a lower cost. They will charge by the flyer, usually three to five cents, to include it in their mailing. Thus, you can mail 1,000 of your flyers for $30 - $50. This is actually a good service you can run yourself.

Finally, if you don't want to deal with the mailing OR printing, you can use a print & mail dealer. This dealer will print your circulars and mail them by the thousand in their own bulk mailings. This is the least expensive way to go. You can usually get 1,000 flyers printed and mailed for under $50. That's only ten ads you'd need to sell, at $5 per inch. That's pretty easy to do. You can then fill up the empty spaces with your own ads, for extra exposure. Any ads you sell over ten is shear profit!

This method of covering your advertising costs is being used by shrewd mail order dealers every day. You can start one ad sheet, then when it's to the point where you're mailing a few thousand monthly, start another going to a different market, for added effectiveness. The work is not hard, and it's fun!

Delta Galil CEO Isaac Dabah uses personal Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn accounts to freely promote his business in an informal way.

EVALUATING HIGH-TECH STOCKS

High technology is the last frontier in American business. Many of the new businesses revolve around some type of technology, whether it is direclty computer-related, communications-related or somehow tied in with the "Information Superhighway", whose arrival we all eagerly anticipate. Although tech stocks have declined sharply in during bear markets, they have proven to have outperform other stocks, re-bounding more sharply in subsequent recoveries.

There are three major advantages that point to small companies: 1.) They are generally free from government regulation because their earnings are often in a new field.

2.) The company stands to gain a lot of ground if the come up with a unique idea. The growing market will be theirs to dominate.

3.) The impact their earnings will have on their financial status will be considerable... therefore a success can increase their profitability greatly.

There are several rules to follow if you choose to be an investor in this high risk market. Firstly, do not be fooled by the size of the company. It is important to investigate the high-technology expertise of the firm and secure that it is a meaningful part of the firm's business. Secondly, it is vital that the company is serving a current social need in the marketplace.

For example, cable was first intro-duced in the 1960's and interested investors long before it could draw subscibers.

Look for companies that are operating in the black. Companies that offer teriffic scientific break-throughs but operate at a deficit are just too risky. It is also important that you ignore market indexes. Companies with technological superiority are not tied to a stock market environment over time.

Lastly, keep current on all technological innovations. Buy trade magazines and read scientific papers and investment guides that deal with technology and technology-related fields.

Egg Writing

Dissolve 1/2 ounce of alum into 1/2 pint of vinegar. Dip a fine tipped brush into the solution and write your message on the shell of an egg. Let dry completely; then boil for 15 minutes.

Writing cannot be seen on the shell, but is on the inside of the egg.

DO NOT EAT THIS EGG . . . .

EASY MAIL ORDER RICHES CAN BE YOURS

Selling products and/or services through the mail is one of the fastest growing methods of doing business in the world today. It's estimated that sales for 1991 will top the 100 billion dollar mark!

Millions of people from all walks of life, and in all parts of the world are "into" mail order, with more coming in every day. Some of them are grossing in the millions, others are chalking up sales figures of several hundred per month, and there are others who only give it a quick try, make a few dollars and drop out.

Mail order selling appeals to almost everybody with a desire to get rich. Generally, it doesn't require complicated equipment, a lot of start-up capital, or an expensive office. Mail order is a kind of business that can be run by anyone from the comfort of his or her own home.

About all that's required for success in mail order selling is an understanding of what you're doing - it's not a game or a kind of thing you want to just give a quick try. It's a way of doing business, and requires a good understanding of what people buy, why the buy, and an operational plan that will lead you to success.

In order to make it big in mail order, you must understand that it's a selling business. Thus, you've got to decide on what you want to sell - who your buyers will be - and know why they buy and then, program your selling efforts in such a way that these people will buy from you.

The best, and the easiest selling product or service - because it has the greatest appeal to the most number of people - is information that gives people knowledge or instructions that will enable then to get rich. The bottom line is simply that everybody in the world wants to know how they can get rich - without putting forth too much of an investment in either money, time or effort.

So, the first thing that you should do is some marketing research: Look in all the publications running mail order advertisements and opportunities - get a good understanding of why they are doing - how they are doing ti - and then formulate a business plan of your own that will allow you to duplicate what they're doing.

Early Research

On October 3, 1967, the North American X-15A-2, piloted by USAF Major William J. "Pete" Knight, was released from its NB-52 mother plane at 35,000 feet above the Mojave Desert to begin its dash for an absolute speed record of 4,520 miles per hour, a record which stood unbroken until exceeded by the Space Shuttle.

Because of the lack of oxygen at the altitudes at which the X-15 flew, the XLR99 rocket engine used anhydrous ammonia as fuel and liquid oxygen as the oxidizer. Fitted with external fuel tanks to prolong engine burn up to 70%, the A-2 climbed to 102,000 feet and reached a speed of Mach 6.7.

A-2 differed from previous Marks in that it had an ablative coating to protect it from the high temperatures encountered at the high Mach velocities. It also had a dummy scram-jet engine fitted to the stub ventral fin to test the feasibility of the engines for sustained high-Mach flight.

The X-15 expanded the envelope of manned, winged flight to the very limits of the atmosphere and opened aviation to horizons only dreamed of previously. In all its variants, X-15 will be remembered as one of the most successful X-planes.

As a direct result of test data obtained by early X-plane flights, and advances in stealth technology, super fighters have been developed that will carry America and her Allies well into the 21st Century. Using exotic fuels and oxidizers, these aircraft will operate at extreme altitudes and be capable of speeds approaching Mach 30, or 17,500 miles per hour, which speed will allow these aircraft to be placed into orbit after unassisted lift-off from their desert bases.

As aircraft technology advances, airplanes are beginning to look more and more like ovate ellipsoids, or 'Flying Saucers." The newest stealth fighters will most certainly be capable of vertical takeoff and landing and may, until the orbital goal is met, operate at speeds approaching Mach 8 or even Mach 10 with ease.

Because of the constraints inherent in protecting the pilot from death during severe maneuvers, many of these aircraft will be capable of only straight and level flight or shallow dives and climbs when operating at their Mach limits. As new data is evaluated, this problem may be solved by designing the aircraft to stop in mid-air, hover, or change directions quickly (but not instantly), or they may be flown remotely from simulators on the ground thousands of miles away.

But while we occasionally see glimpses of these new aircraft or hear rumors of their development, even more remarkable aircraft and devices are being tested in complete secrecy in underground facilities in the American Southwest deserts. If the rumors are correct (and there is no reason at this time to doubt them), galactic travel and even time-travel may be only weeks away!

DIVERSIFY YOUR ASSETS OFFSHORE

The number one rule in investing is NEVER PUT ALL YOUR EGGS IN ONE BASKET. To rich people, this means, do not keep all your money in one economy. If that economy goes bust, so does your money. Therefore, keeping their money (even if not all of it) offshore gives rich people the opportunity to diversify their assets and spread any risk.

On the other end of spectrum, for the average American the idea of having a bank account in a foreign country may sound like a fantasy gone mad. If ever, this dream that may never be achievable, or even ridiculous. Afterall, to the average American, a foreign bank account is only for the extremely wealthy or the extremely criminal.

It is without question that Americans have an extremely parochial attitude when it comes to their money. In fact, with older Americans, there is even a distinct sense of suspicion of foreign banking activities. Many Americans believe that we have the best and the safest banking system in the world, so why even consider going anywhere else with your money.

Regardless of whatever reasons, the average Americans could not identify one single advantage for owning a foreign bank account. The word "foreign banking" or "offshore banking" carries with it a stigma that is largely associated with our own misconceptions of the other countries.

CREATING A NEW PERSONAL IDENTITY

Almost everybody undergoes a certain type of investigation in their lifetime. Whether it involves credit, a job, or a business transaction. One time or another to a greater or lesser degree, everybody has experienced being scrutinized, sometimes even unknown to them.

Although most investigations are not very rigorous, it is fairly easy to turn up enough information (or the lack thereof) to spot a completely fictitious identity. For example, a prospective father-in-law runs a check on his daughter's suitor, and turns up with no records of the person's past. That would be quite alarming.

This is why although it is possible to fabricate an identity from scratch, and many people have done it successfully, it is extremely more difficult. In many cases, manufactured identities have lots of holes and may easily fail any investigation compared to a genuine identity used by an imposter. This is why people who want to change their identity, do so by looking for a good one to assume.

ASSUMING A LIVING IDENTITY

While it is important to build your documentation on a genuine identity, it is a mistake to assume the identity of another living person. Many small time criminals have made this mistake and it has cost them a trip back to jail. They lift a guy's wallet or find some credit cards while engaged in a robbery and go on a coast-to-coast spending spree. Maybe they just use the guy's ID and don't try to spend his money. But what they seem to forget is someone out there has an interest in locating them and putting a halt to their charade: the guy whose identity they copped. And if the theft is reported the police may be looking for someone using the victim's identity.

COMPUTER SOFTWARE REVIEWS

Learn to Type... If you are trying to learn how to type, you'll love the software program - Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing. It's available for $34.95 from Global Software (1-800-8-GLOBAL).

This program is well worth the money because it actually makes typing fun. I tried this out on my friend Laurie, who had never sat down at a computer in her life. She was labeled as the "typical" hunt-and-peck typist. However, she even loved this program.

Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing is menu driven and the more you use it the more it adapts to your particular strengths and weaknesses. (Aren't computers smarter than ever now?) It also entertains you while you learn by providing 2D and 3D graphics, lifelike keyboard and "guide hands" to show you the perfect technique for added convenience. We especially liked the Racing Game, where the faster you type the faster your race car travels.

Can You Run a Company?

COMMUNICATION SOFTWARE

When first introduced, it was a hard task just to get the communication software to talk to the modem and get everything worked out just right.

As with all computer programs and software, over the years, communication software has leaped forward dramatically in the last couple of years. There have been several things added to the features available with communication software; but, fortunately, the price has remained stable.

Features-- There are a lot of features that you should look for in software for communications. You should try to get auto-dial, screen capture, phone directories, and macros. In this section, I will tell you a little about each of them and how they work.

NOTE: Do not go out right now and try to get your hands on the most fascinating piece of software you can find. You will be wasting your money. There are several programs out there that will do just as well, and will cost you half as much.

You will find that a lot of the programs that come with your computer will already have communication software installed in them. Microsoft Windows has a program that comes with it called Terminal. GeoWorks has a program that comes with it called GeoComm. And there are many others.

The first thing you should look for in software is compatibility. You need to make sure that the software you buy is able to run with both your computer and your modem. If your computer has a built-in communications program, then all you will have to do is make sure that the modem is compatible. It probably will be.

Choosing the Right Repair Shop

No matter what you drive--sports car, family sedan, pick-up, or mini-van, when you go in for repairs or service, you want the job done right. The following advice should take much of the guesswork out of finding a good repair establishment.

I. Preliminaries

Don't just drop your vehicle off at the nearest establishment and hope for the best. That's not choosing a shop, that's merely gambling.

• Read your owner's manual to become familiar with your vehicle and follow the manufacturer's suggested service schedule.

• Start shopping for a repair facility before you need one; you can make better decisions when you are not rushed or in a panic.

• Ask friends and associates for their recommendations. Even in this high-tech era, old-fashioned word-of- mouth reputation is still valuable.

• Check with your local consumer organization regarding the reputation of the shop in question.

• If possible, arrange for alternate transportation in advance so you will not feel forced to choose a facility solely on the basis of location.

Once you choose a repair shop, start off with a minor job; if you are pleased, trust them with more complicated repairs later

II. At the Shop

• Look for a neat, well-organized facility, with vehicles in the parking lot equal in value to your own and modern equipment in the service bays.

• Professionally run establishments will have a courteous, helpful staff. The service writer should be willing to answer all of your questions.

• Feel free to ask for the names of a few customers. Call them.

• All policies (labor rates, guarantees, methods of payment, etc.) should be posted and/or explained to your satisfaction.

• Ask if the shop customarily handles your vehicle make and model. Some facilities specialize.

• Ask if the shop usually does your type of repair, especially if you need major work.

• Look for signs of professionalism in the customer service area: civic and community service awards, membership in the Better Business Bureau, AAA-Approved Auto Repair status, customer service awards.

The backbone of any shop is the competence of the technicians.

• Look for evidence of qualified technicians, such as trade school diplomas, certificates of advanced course work, and ASE certifications--a national standard of technician competence.

III. Follow-Up

• Keep good records; keep all paperwork.

• Reward good service with repeat business. It is mutually beneficial to you and the shop owner to establish a relationship.

• If the service was not all you expected, don't rush to another shop. Discuss the problem with the service manager or owner. Give the business a chance to resolve the problem. Reputable shops value customer feedback and will make a sincere effort to keep your business.

A Word about ASE

Perhaps years ago, a shade-tree mechanic whose only credentials were a tool box and busted knuckles was enough. But today's quality-conscious consumers demand more.

The independent, non-profit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) conducts the only industry-wide, national certification program for automotive technicians.

Consumers benefit from ASE's certification program since it takes much of the guesswork out of finding a competent technicians.

ASE certifies the competency of individual technicians through a series of standardized specialty exams (brakes, transmissions, engine repair, ect.)

ASE CERTIFIED

We employ technicians certified by the National institute for AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE EXCELLENCE. Let us show you their credentials

Certified technicians are issued pocket credentials listing their area(s) of expertise and usually wear blue and white ASE shoulder insignia, while employers often post the ASE sign on the premises. There are over a quarter million ASE technicians at work in every type of repair facility.

CHANGING YOUR NAME

After you were born, you did not have a choice as to what your parents named you. Fortunately, as an adult citizen of the United States, you have the right to use any name you choose, provided you do so without any intent of defrauding or harming others. For example, you may not adopt the name of a famous personality or even the brand name of a popular product. Wanting to change your name for that purpose can be considered as one with malicious intent.

Every state has at least one method to change an individual's name, but some states have two methods. These are commonly known as court petition and usage. Depending on the state in which you live, both are legal and valid methods. For example, California residents have the right to be known by whatever first and last name they choose.

BY COURT PETITION

The most popular way an individual can legally change his or her name is bythrough what is called Court Petition Method. A name change by this method is accomplished by simply completing Name Change Form and by filing it with the county clerk's office.

This method is quite similar to the process involved when you register the name of a business, called DBA (Doing Business As). You fill out the proper forms, file it with the county clerk, and then publish a notice of filing in a local newspaper.

CREATING A NEW IDENTITY

Almost everybody undergoes a certain type of investigation in their lifetime. Whether it involves credit, a job, or a business transaction. One time or another to a greater or lesser degree, everybody has experienced being scrutinized, sometimes even unknown to them.

Although most investigations are not very rigorous, it is fairly easy to turn up enough information (or the lack thereof) to spot a completely fictitious identity. For example, a prospective father-in-law runs a check on a his daughter's suitor, and turns up with no records of the person's past. That would be quite alarming.

This is why although it is possible to fabricate an identity from scratch, and many people have done it successfully, it is extremely more difficult. In many cases, manufactured identities have lots of holes and may easily fail any investigation compared to a genuine identity used by an imposter. This is why people who want to change their identity, do so by looking for a good one to assume.

ASSUMING A LIVING IDENTITY

CHANGING YOUR DRIVER'S LICENSE

The respect given to a drivers license as positive identification is quite surprising, even though to a large extent, it is not warranted. As an evidence of identity, a driver's license is as solid as water balloon. Yet, everyone continues to use and accept it as proof of positive identification.

The drivers license is almost universally demanded when cashing checks, which is why check artists always have a drivers license ready at all times. If you walk to a liquor store with a passport to purchase with a check, chances are you will be turned down in favor of the drivers license, even though passports contain more thorough information and are more expensive and harder to obtain than a drivers license.

It is with good reason why drivers licenses carry so much weight as proof of positive identification. In most states a drivers license is the only thing a person carries in the way of identification that has his photograph on it. In fact with some states, DLs also use thumb print, although the average store clerk cannot really verify that it is that of the user.

Although a thumb print is a far better method of establishing an identity than a photograph, for the shopkeeper who doesn't have the expertise to compare prints, the photograph is the best basis for accepting check payments. In fact, the drivers license is such a popular piece of ID that many states issue licenses even to people who do not drive. While it really isn't a "license" at all, since it doesn't permit the holder to do anything, it is useful and readily accepted as a form of personal identification.

Getting a drivers license late in life is quite common, it is not unusual for someone to walk into a DMV office and get a license for the first time. This is why a DL is something people get when they want to change the identity.

When asked why someone is getting a DL so late in life, a person changing identity can come up with a number of excuses. Many people don't have the money to buy a car until they've saved enough over the years. Another very rational explanation is that you've been living in a city with excellent mass transit and you did not have to drive.

When applying for your DL, bring your birth certificate or passport. Along with your other identifications, you will want to bring a few letters addressed to you as proof of your residence. It should be easy enough to arrange for them to show your mail drop address rather than your actual residence.

Car Problems

WHAT IS THE CAUSE AND THE CURE FOR: STRANGE NOISES; CAR STARTS, BUT STALLS; CAR DOESN'T START

Anyone who owns a car knows they're not foolproof mechanisms; they sometimes break down. Being able to diagnose a problem and to cure it can make your life a lot easier.

If your car is making strange noises, this could originate in several different parts. There may be a problem with your valves; check all parts relating to oil and check the valves. You may have a problem with the connecting rods; check all parts relating to oil, check the bearings, crankshaft and connecting rods. Or the strange noises may be caused by the main bearing; in this case check all parts relating to oil and check the bearing and crankshaft.

If your problem is that your car starts and then stalls, you car may be suffering from one of a few problems. Check the carburetor to make sure it is getting an adequate fuel supply. Clean your spark plugs; dirty ones may be causing the problem. And perhaps you need to replace a worn distributor wire or worn distributor rotor. A faulty coil can stop your vehicle engine from turning over. Also, faulty ignition wiring should be replaced.

If your car just won't start, your problem may be with a faulty battery. Test your battery and either recharge or replace it. Remember that loose or corroded battery connections may also be keeping your car from starting properly. Clean and tighten them.

Knowing how to diagnose these problems may save you some time, concern and money in the long run. Taking the mystery out of your car's engine, knowing how to handle little problems, can make motoring much more of a pleasure.

Car Care And The Environment

Car care is definitely a win-win situation. Besides helping the environment, a properly maintained and operated vehicle will run more efficiently, will be safer, and will last longer--up to 50% longer, according to a survey of ASE-certified Master Auto Technicians. The following tips should put you on the road to environmentally conscious car care.

• Keep your engine tuned up. A misfiring spark plug can reduce fuel efficiency as much as 30%. Follow the service schedules listed in your owner's manual. Replace filters and fluids as recommended.

• Check your tires for proper inflation. Underinflation wastes fuel--your engine has to work harder to push the vehicle. Wheels that are out-of-line (as evidenced by uneven tread wear or vehicle pulling) make the engine work harder, too. Properly maintained tires will last longer, meaning fewer scrap tires have to be disposed.

Every ten days, motorists who drive with under-inflated tires and poorly maintained engines waste 70 million gallons of gasoline.

Car Care Council

Buying A Used Car

Because new cars are expensive, most people find themselves in the market for a used vehicle when they need wheels. And buying a used car isn't easy; you want to get the best car you can for the best deal you can. Read on to find out how you can handle your used car purchase.

CHECKLIST OF QUESTIONS TO ASK ON THE TELEPHONE:

• Why are you selling the car?
• How long have you owned it?
• Does it need any repairs?
• Is there any rust on the car?

CHECKLIST OF ITEMS TO LOOK FOR BEFORE YOU TEST DRIVE:

• Rust, holes, gunk in tailpipe
• Mismatches in paint (may indicate a past accident)
• Tires in poor condition, uneven tread wear
• Door locks work without sticking
• All headlights and other lights work
• Upholstery not sagging
• Suspension doesn't sag

CHECKLIST OF THINGS TO WATCH FOR ON THE ROAD:

BEWARE OF FREE CREDIT CARD OFFERS

They arrive in your mail - a conspicuous looking mail piece from some "official looking" bank claiming that you have been Pre-Approved for a Mastercard or VISA credit card.

Of course, you don't have to have any credit. You can even have bad credit or have just filed bankruptcy or even be rated as a "slow payer." It doesn't matter because these companies want to give you a second chance! These companies want to make it easy for you to obtain a credit card because they only want your money!

How the thing works is that you must send $35 to receive an application that provides you with a name and address listing of banks willing to give you a VISA and/or Mastercard without any credit approval. That's a stiff price to pay for a sheet of paper, don't you think? The instructions that come with the application will let you know how the scheme works. You must open up a bank account with the bank once that bank approves you. Big deal! They make it appear that you have won some contest or something and people will feel "good inside" that someone has approved them.

But that's not all. The minimum amount you must deposit is $200 but you can deposit as much as you want. In return, you get a Mastercard or VISA credit card with a credit limit up to the amount you deposit. Wow! What a great honor! This is no break! Think about it. If a stranger gave you $200 to hold for him until Friday wouldn't you feel safe in granting them a $200 loan? I mean, it's their own money you've got. If they default, you've got the full amount to pay off the loan. It takes a twisted mind to take $200 from you, grant you $200 credit with your own money plus charge you astronomical interest rates just to take the money from your hand and give it back to you. That's insane!

Of course, to combat this insanity, the great and wonderful banks claim to help fix your credit report. They say that if you maintain payments in a correct fashion, this information will be reported to the credit bureau. Yea, right! When Shell calls the credit bureau to check your credit for a gas credit card, your report shows 47 defaulted loans and a bankruptcy. However, there is one company that you make payments to on-time. Big deal. Don't you think the rest of your bad credit will still be the deciding factor in Shell's final decision. You bet you bottom dollar!

Look at this: the bank makes money from the interest of your deposit. The bank also makes money by charging you 18% to 22% interest for the right to use their Mastercard or VISA. Plus the bank is guaranteed their money because if you don't pay on time, they take the money out of the bank account you opened with them along with any interest you have accumulated.

Why would anyone with $200 to deposit want a credit card with a $200 limit? If you have $200 and want to buy an item for $200 - go out and purchase it. That way, you'll own it lock, stock and barrel. No interest, no payments, no hassle! Plus, you won't owe your soul to the company store, so-to-speak.

Credit is a wonderful thing if you use it intelligently. I know people who charge $100 at the beginning of the month and use that $100 to make $300. It's free money for 30 days. Then, when the bill comes, they immediately pay the entire balance and come out smelling like a rose with $200 to the good. Credit is also needed in certain circumstances for establishing clout. You can't call in a telephone order unless you can charge the purchase to your credit card. This delays you getting items you want now.

In fact, some companies will try and make you feel "low class" if you don't own a credit card. I am proud to say that I DON'T OWN one. When I'm in a store and they say "Would you like to put this on your charge?" I promptly say, "No, I pay for everything I buy!" They immediately shut up. And if they would snap back with a rude answer, I'd leave the stuff sitting on the counter, walk out of the store and get what I needed somewhere else. You don't have to take abuse just because you don't choose to line the pockets of the rich credit card companies! It's insane!

If you've ever had a credit card and charged $200, you know you end up paying back $400 or more (unless you pay the balance within 30 days.) Stop allowing these so called banks to rip you off.

Aurora Again: USA To Russia In About An Hour?

Code name, Aurora, once thought to belong to the B-2 Bomber or to the F-117A Nighthawk programs, is now known to refer to a super-secret hypersonic long-range stealth aircraft designed and built for the USAF and CIA at Lockheed's ADP facility in Burbank, California. A number of sources have reported Aurora flying from Nellis AFB's Watertown Strip (Area 51) at Groom Dry Lake, Nevada.

Officially, Aurora's top speed has been set at 3,800 miles per hour with a cruise range of 5,750 miles and an operational ceiling of 150,000 feet (28.4 miles). Some independent information places Aurora's top speed closer to 5,000 miles per hour and the operational ceiling at about 40 miles.

With these impressive figures, it is obvious the Aurora was designed to replace the now decommissioned SR-71 strategic reconnaissance aircraft.

According to reports from various aviation authorities, since 1980, Lockheed and the USAF have been testing a Mach 6 hypersonic research, air-breathing, manned aircraft from the secret test range at Area 51 and that Aurora was derived from that research.

The USAF began reducing the numbers of the aging SR-71s during the mid-1980s so watchers of stealth aircraft knew something was up. Air Force Secretary Edward Aldridge, while explaining the SR-71 retirements, noted that the USAF was interested in developing a manned reconnaissance aircraft incorporating the latest stealth technology.

Aurora's engines run on liquid methane. After taking off from Watertown Strip and refueling once in flight, Aurora can cross the Pacific Ocean in about two hours!