By: mattie

I see so many folks when I fly that do not turn off their
cell phones. And, I am annoyed by it that someone decides to take
my safety into their hands. Why does Alex think that he did not
have to follow the rules? And to then create this huge whirlwind of
twitter messages? You made a mistake in a moment and are now adding
to it. Unfotunately, flying today is stressful enough without
adding more inconvenience to other passengers with undue delays
etc.

Aero Mexico

Aeromexico Airlines, operating 496 daily flights to 49
destinations, is the largest domestic airline in Mexico that. Being
a member of SkyTeam Alliance has helped Aeromexico Airlines of
Mexico fly to 728 destinations in 149 countries.

By: Melsie Monroe

This stunt is by far the most sexiest thing any celebrity has
ever done this year! Bravo Alec: Sexiest of 2011 ;) LOL!

By: terry

I don't think any air traveler likes nor understands the
arbitrary, bizarre and clearly outdated FAA rules regarding
electronic devices. Nevertheless, like it or not, the rules are the
rules and we agree to them whenever we step on an airline....read
the terms of your ticket, it's all on there. Here's what I have to
say about Baldwin: He's a hot head and regardless of what an
obnoxious flight attendant may or may not have said to him, it does
not justify his concomitant abuse of her, nor does it justify
delaying the flight and subjecting other passengers to his tirades.
Finally, his publicist is an idiot: tweeting "how come ok..." (sic)
I mean really? That's not even a sentence. Finally, his publicist
misuses the word hypocrisy. Baldwin needs to work on his temper and
get a new publicist. Someone who is fluent in English, articulate
and has a dictionary. Terry

Virgin Atlantic Airways

Virgin Atlantic Airlines has a smaller base at Manchester
Airport and operates flights to USA and the Caribbean islands. The
main hub includes London Heathrow Airport, London Gatwick
Airport.

International Airlines

International airlines enable easy transportation to
different parts of the globe. At present there are innumerable
airline companies that operate international airlines apart from
domestic ones.

Panama Canal Cruises

The Luxurious liners, which take you in a Panama Canal
Cruise, are well equipped to handle all your needs.

Star Alliance

One of the largest airline alliances of the world, Star
Alliance was founded on May 14, 1997, by a group of five
international airlines. The alliance achieved huge success in the
following years and in recent times the number of Star Alliance
Partners has been increased to 20.

Ata Airlines

The ATA Airlines was established in the year 1973 and was
accredited the common-Air carrier certificate in the month of
March, 1981.

American Airlines

American Airlines is considered as the largest airline of the
world with respect to the total passenger-miles transported. Its
mammoth fleet size of 655 reaches to as many destinations as
158.

Airline Jobs

The number of airline jobs have proliferated over the years,
due to the establishment of numerous airline companies. Attractive
renumeration packages are offered by the air services job
providers.

Book Flights

Book Flights online has made flight booking quite easy
nowadays. The flyers can also book flights directly from online
booking engine along with hotel and custom trip booking all at the
same place. Book Flights now and save yourself the hassle of travel
agents or standing in long queues.

Sama Airlines

Sama Airlines serves a number of destinations in Saudi Arabia
and the Middle East. This short-haul carrier has won the hearts of
the flyers by providing low-cost flight service.

Police chief off Georgia safety board

A veteran police chief says he was taken off the Georgia
Board of Public Safety after questioning whether Gov.

Caribbean Airlines

Caribbean Airlines has been operational since 2007. The
flights operated by Caribbean Airways connect various domestic,
regional and international destinations.

Saudi Arabian Airlines

Saudi Arabian Airlines sends domestic and international
flights to more than 70 international destinations with its main
hubs at Jeddah-King Abdulaziz International Airport, Riyadh-King
Khalid International Airport, Dammam-King Fahad International
Airport.

Air Canada

Air Canada is the largest airline in this part of the globe.
Its popularity can be estimated from the number of passengers that
it carries each year. It offers domestic and international flight
services.

Iberia Airlines

Iberia Airlines is one of the premium airlines, based in
Spain, Iberia as an Airline provides transportation to the
passengers and freight to different parts of the world. Iberia
operates their flights to an excess of 39 countries

Delta Airlines

Delta Air lines is based in Atlanta, Georgia. One of the most
important American airlines, Delta air lines is also the second
largest airline of the world in terms of passenger carried, third
largest in terms of revenue passenger and sixth in terms of
operating revenues.

By: Marissa

Alec Baldwin displays the classic example of narcissistic
jerk! For him to think that he is in the right, and blasting
American Airlines for following Federal Safety guidelines is
absurd. The job of a flight attendant is to ensure that ALL
passengers adhere to these guidelines. If he has a problem with
this rule, he should direct his frustrations to the FAA, not the
poor flight attendant that is essentially "the messenger." Also, to
know that other celebrities and news outlets are taking his side is
so frustrating!

Mango Airlines

Mango Airlines is a next generation Airline depending on the
internet for most of its operations. Its centre of operations is in
South Africa. Presently, Mango Airlines has taken 4 Boeing 737-800
aircrafts from South African Airways.

Southwest airlines

Southwestairlines is one of the most successful budget
airlines of the USA. Southwest airlines is the main leading
domestic carriers of the United States of America connects 64
cities of 32 American states.

Mexicana Airlines

Established on July 12, 1921, as the Compania Mexicana de
Transportacion Aerea, Mexicana Airlines is the national airlines of
Mexico since 1924.

Cathay Pacific Airlines

Cathay Pacific Airways was the joint endeavor of Roy C
Farrell, an American, and Sydney H de Kantzow, an Australian. In
its initial stages, Cathay Pacific Airlines operated scheduled
passenger flights to destinations like Bangkok, Manila, Shanghai
and Singapore.

Suspect identified in Dollar General robbery

Athens-Clarke County Police have identified a suspect in a
Friday robbery of a Dollar General store on Atlanta Highway.

Emirates Airlines

Emirates Airlines is a premier airline company in the United
Arab Emirates. It began its operations about a couple of decades
back in 1985. Back then it had only a couple of aircrafts in its
line up. Emirates airlines online booking option also available at
mapsofworld.com.

Airline tickets

At present, airline tickets can be booked through the travel
agencies, airline counters and through the Internet. Flight
passengers can avail of the on line air ticket. Discounted air
tickets are offered by most of the flight operators.

Tiger Airways

A part of Singapore Airlines, Tiger Airways is a cheap
airline operating from Singapore. The Singapore Changi Airport
serves as its main hub. Started on December 12, 2003, Tiger Airways
is at present the largest low-cost airline operating abroad in
terms of the total passengers carried.

Korean Airlines

Korean Air is the chief passenger carrier in Korea. Korean
Airlines flight schedule offers valuable information about flight
timings. This airline company was established in 1962. At present
Korean Air operates chiefly from its global headquarters in
Seoul.

Regional transit unity on agenda

Legislation being drawn up at the Capitol could play a key
role in determining the fate of the $6.14 billion transportation
referendum scheduled for this summer.

Northwest Airlines

Book air tickets in Northwest Airlines, NSW / KLM Airlines.
Northwest Airlines is a Skyteam member partnering with Aeroflot,
Alitalia, Air France, Delta Airlines, Continental Airlines,
AeroMexico, Korean Air, CSA Czech Airlines.

Cargo Airlines

Cargo airlines are also known as airfreight carriers. Since
1911, aircrafts have been carrying goods ranging from mails to
heavyweight machineries to different parts of the world.

Frequent Flyer Programs

Airline frequent flyer programs are set up to attract more
travelers. Those travelers, who fly frequently, usually avail these
programs and save lots of money on their journey expenses.

Philippine Airlines

Philippine Airlines, also known as PAL, is the most popular
commercial airlines of Philippines. Philippine airline is also
Asia's first commercial airline.

Malaysia Airlines

Malaysia Airlines is the national airline of Malaysia and
flies across 100 destinations in the world. The destinations of the
airlines of Malaysia include both national and international
regions and it operates charter services also. The Malaysia
Airlines have been internationally recognized and was awarded a 5-
star rating by Skytrax.

United Airlines Ticket

United airlines ticket is an electronic or paper receipt
issued by United airlines to confirm that an individual has
purchased a United airlines flight. The regular features of United
airlines ticket includes Child fares, Senior fares discounts, Pet
travel.

China Airlines

China Airlines section gives the information about all the
major airlines in China. Major airlines in China are China Airline,
China Southern Airline and Air China.

Royal Jordanian Airlines

Royal Jordanian Airlines has its services operating over four
continents, with its main hub located at Queen Alia International
Airport (AMM) in Amman. A member of the Arab Air Carriers
Organization, the airline became functional on.

Gulf Air

Gulf Airways was founded in 1950. It is the flag carrier
airline of the Kingdom of Bahrain. The airline has its headquarter
in Manama, Bahrain. The main hub of Gulf Airways is Bahrain
International Airport. It has an alliance with Jet Airways and Oman
Air.

Aero Contractors

Aero Contractors Company of Nigeria Ltd. also known as Aero
Contractors or 'Aero' is an airline based in Lagos, Nigeria.

Airline Flight Status

Airline Flight Schedule provides information about the
flights and their timings to the passengers. It helps passengers to
know about the availability of flights and timings of various
airlines, international as well as domestic.

Lufthansa Airlines

Lufthansa Airlines, the flag carrier of Germany, is the
largest airline in Europe, and the fifth largest airline in the
world in terms of passengers carried.

Turkish Airlines

Turkish Airlines is the national airline of Turkey. A partner
in Star Alliance, it has contributed significantly to the Turkish
aviation industry.

Allegiant Air

Allegiant Airlines is a very popular low-cost domestic
airline in the US. Allegiant air has a fleet size of 46 and moves
to 71 destinations within the country.

Asiana Airlines

Asiana Airlines is growing fast in terms of air routes and
network. Asiana Airlines flies to Peoples Republic of China, Japan,
India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Canada, USA,
Germany, Australia, Republic of Korea.

By: georgia

Alec is being discriminated against because of his celebrity
status. I'm with Alec! Flew AA three weeks ago. DFW to LAX a woman
couldn't turn her phone off and NOT ONE flight attendant seemed
concerned, walking past her several times, even when I asked
someone to help her turn it off. Either it matters or it doesn't.
And the rudest attendants...when I asked for a blanket which one of
the elderly former parochial schoolgirls was holding in her hands I
was told "there's a very sick person in the back and if I give you
one I'll have to give one to everybody... WTF? Return flight DFW to
KC a guy was playing his game while we were held up about 40
minutes after the announcement to turn devices off...all the way
till the plane lifted off and he turned it off for maybe 20 seconds
and back on again. Row 7 aisle, so not like he was hiding. Alec has
this one right. AA attendants suck

By: Mike

This nitwit should be ashamed and SNL will make a big deal of
it in HIS favor!!! ALEC and SNL should be ashamed!!!! Hope he gets
kicked out of all flights!!!! He thinks he can walk on water!!!
Think again fool (spelled ALEC FOOL BALDWIN!!!! Got no use for
idiots like this !!! Hope he loses everthing befor he
dies!!!

By: James Brown

Is this the same nitwit that promised to leave the U.S. if G.
Bush was elected? Why in the hell is still here?

Gwinnett woman's flushed $4,000 diamond bracelet fished from sewer

Using a fiber-optic camera and hundreds of gentle
nudges, Roto-Rooter serviceman Andrew Cook saved a Loganville woman
from the anguish of an especially expensive flush.

Mark Arum: Gridlock Guy

This is a traffic and transportation column, not a political
column. But, after hearing a story on Friday night, I feel the need
to single out a politician today for a well deserved pat on the
back.

Mortgage Rates Today: Current Mortgage Rates on 30 Year Home Loans at 3.97%

Mortgage rates today on 30 year home mortgage loans increased
to3.97%, upfrom yesterdays average 30 year mortgage
rate of 3.89%. 30 year mortgage rates bounced off of yesterdays
all-time low but rates probably wont go much higher this week since
10 year bond yields are trading in a tight range.Mortgage
rates today on 15 year

Mortgage Rates Hit Record Low This Week: 30 Year Mortgage Rates at 3.89%

Mortgage rates are lower again this week as 30 year mortgage
rates hit an all-time record low on Monitor Bank Ratesweekly
average mortgageratessurvey.Mortgage rates today
on 30 year home loans are averaging 3.89%, down from last weeks
average 30 year mortgage rate of 4.05%. We started 2012 with a
record low rate on 30 year

Mortgage Rates Mixed Week: 30 Year Mortgage Rate at 4.05%

Mortgage rates are mixed this week, fixed conforming mortgage
rates are higher while fixedjumbo mortgage interest rates are
lower. Current mortgagerateson 30 year home loans are
averaging 4.05%,up from lastweeks average 30 year
mortgage rate of 3.91%. Todays Mortgage rates on 15 year mortgage
loans areaveraging 3.31%,up from last weeks average 15
year rate of

Mortgage Rates Hit All Time Record Low: 30 Year Mortgage Rates at 3.91%

Mortgage rates have hit yet another record low in the most
recent mortgage survey released this morning. In Freddie Macs
Primary Mortgage Market Survey 30 year mortgage rates hit an all
time record low of 3.91% for the week ending December 22, 2011.
Average 30 year mortgage rates dropped from last weeks average of
3.94%.Current

Mortgage Rates This Week: 30 Year Mortgage Rates at 3.91%

Mortgage rates aremixedthis week as fixed
conforming 30 year mortgage rates stayed under 4.00% for the third
consecutive week. Current mortgage rateson 30 year home loans
are averaging 3.91%, a slight decreasefrom last weeks average
30 year mortgage rate of 3.92%. Mortgage rates on 15 year mortgage
loans areaveraging 3.24%,down from last weeks average
15

Around the World Airfares

International air travel can be expensive. Prices for
traveling across the Atlantic can top $500, and trans-Pacific
flights often top $1,000. Less-visited destinations can be
even more pricy. Strategies like using frequent flier miles
or buying tickets from consolidators can sometimes lessen the
price. But not always. Multiple-city ticket Read
More...

7 Best Social Media Travel Sites

You cant go very far on the Internet without running into a
social media site. And travel lends itself better than almost any
other industry to social networking. Videos, reviews, photos,
suggestions, travel tales what better avenue for research and the
telling of your travel stories? If youre Read More...

Top 35 Travel Blogs

There are plenty of lists out there of popular travel sites
and interesting travel blogs, but our list pretty much covers it
all. Use this as a resource for all your travel needs. Almost
Fearless General Almost Fearless is a blog about a new mother who
decided to drop Read More...

10 Bizarre Hotels

For many vacations, its more about where youre staying, not
what hotel youre staying at. But just as a new city opens up
new experiences, a new, unique type of lodging could introduce you
to a one-of-a kind experience. Heres a list of 10 bizarre
hotels around the Read More...

Winter Vacation Ideas in the Southwest

The Southwestern US is more than a dry desert with a few
cities surrounded by cactus trees. It is even more than a
wintertime golf destination, a place for retirees or a destination
for counter-culture aficionados. Some of the countrys best
cultural attractions, ski resorts and shopping venues Read
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Traveling with a Disability

In 2002, individuals with disabilities took 32 million trips
and spent more than $3.3 billion on air travel. This surge in
travel may be due in part to the passage of the Air Carrier Access
Act of 1986. The law requires airlines by the Department of
Transportation to Read More...

Handy Tips for International Travelers

Handy Tips for International Travelers The key to becoming a
successful world traveler is flexibility. Theres no way to prepare
for every predicament youll encounter when youre on the road, far
away from home, but you can prepare for how to handle unpredictable
situations it usually starts Read More...

Can I Move Frequent Flyer Miles Among Programs?

For consumers, the ability to exchange miles and points
between their various airline and hotel loyalty accounts is an
obvious plus. Airlines and hotels see the matter very
differently.

American's Flex Awards: Good, Bad, or Ugly?

Our reader thinks American's Flex Awards are a scam
masquerading as frequent flyer salvation. Is he right? Tim Winship
thinks not, and explains why.

Why Does a British Airways Award Ticket Cost $500?

Ingrid was quoted more than $500 in fees to use her British
Airways miles for an award trip. Tim Winship explains the how, the
why, and the options.

Plan, Pack, and Pick Your Way to Simple Thanksgiving Travel

Thanksgiving is the most popular day for travel of the year.
And when it comes to airports, which have already cut back on
staffing and flights offerings, high traffic days mean more
congestion, longer lines, and heightened security a deadly trio
particularly when traveling with family. So Read More...

The High Costs of Airline Industry Mistakes

The airline industry is a giant in the global economy and,
just like any other market, it has ups and downs, losses and gains.
In an industry full of high operating costs and plenty of outside
scrutiny, airlines are under enormous pressure. If theyre going to
encounter a Read More...

Tips for Getting the Best Airfare

The convenience and accessibility of the Web has opened a
world of possibilities for numerous industries, few of which have
been more affected than airlines. Anyone with access to a computer
and an Ethernet connection can book a flight to anywhere in the
world. But accessibility doesnt always Read More...

Unlimited Free Upgrades on United? Really?

Erica wonders whether United's promise of unlimited upgrades
is heaven or hype. Tim Winship puts the new policy into
perspective.

The Airline Industry vs. The Environment: Let the Battle Begin

One of the biggest issues globally is no doubt the
environment. No industry gets a pass card on their contribution to
the degradation of the earth, particularly the airline industry,
and no single topic is trendier lately than saving the earth.
Lately, the nations airlines have come under Read More...

Getting There is Half the Battle: Options for Getting to and From the Airport

Sometimes the most important details about planning a trip
can get neglected, like how youre actually going to get to and from
the airport for your flight. Depending on where you live or where
youre staying this may be a simple problem to solve or a more Read
More...

Airline or Hotel Programs ... Which Are Better?

A reader wonders whether he was right to ignore hotel
programs in favor of airline schemes for 25 years. Tim Winship
suggests he may have missed out on some worthwhile perks.

Can I Just Pay a Travel Agent to Book My Award Trip?

Finding frequent flyer award seats is a hassle. It'll cost
you, but the fee charged by a travel agent might be worth
it.

The Ins and Outs of Travel Insurance

Like any other type of insurance; you take travel insurance
for granted until you really need it. While the last thing you want
to dwell on when planning a vacation is some sort of disaster
situation ruining your trip, the fact is that, in addition to
flights, hotels, Read More...

Weirdest Things You Can Buy In Flight

Once you get over the initial entertainment (or horror) of
takeoff, airline travel is pretty mundane: seatbelt, tray table,
peanuts. Luckily, if youre willing to throw down, there are still a
few cool and kooky things for sale at 30,000 feet to keep you
amused. Food People tend to rate Read More...

Should I Get a JetBlue Credit Card?

Do 10,000 bonus TrueBlue points make the JetBlue credit card
a good buy? Maybe. But there might be better deals to be had,
according to Tim Winship.

12 Tips for Getting Through Airport Security

September 11, 2001 changed everything for the air travel
industry. Its hard to remember the days when taking off your shoes
in a public place wasnt common place or when liquids didnt need to
be housed in plastic bags. Seasoned travelers are experts at
navigating airport security relatively Read More...

Crazy Things People Bring on Airplanes

However arbitrary and invasive airport security measures are,
they do serve to communicate the fact that threats to airline
safety do exist. People do try (and some succeed) at bringing very
inappropriate items on board aircrafts. The following is a sampling
of some of the outrageous, funny, and Read More...

The Best Non-Airline Credit Card for Travel Rewards?

A reader asks about switching from an airline-specific credit
card to American Express. Tim Winship replies.

8 Most Luxurious Ways to Travel

As the old saying goes, getting there is half the battle;
and, most certainly, choices in transit can heavily influence how
enjoyable a vacation pans out. When it comes to luxury
vacations, they must be accompanied by modes of transit that live
up to the elegance of their Read More...

10 Best iPhone Travel Apps

With the exception of being able to physically fly you to
your destination, you iPhone can pretty much fill any travel need
pre, post or during flight. From memory-making, to navigation, to
language translation, iPhone apps have got you covered. In fact,
were so confident with our list Read More...

How Airlines Make Money

Its no secret that airlines have been struggling to stay
profitable over the last few years layoffs, mergers, fees, after
fees, after fees. But for the average traveler who seems to be
shelling out more and more dough for an airline ticket and who
seems to be Read More...

Must Have Travel Items

Travelers these days have by and large have resigned
themselves to the fact that they will have the typical nightmarish
experience in their journey. This just doesnt have to be;
there are a plethora of new gadgets and innovations out there to
make your experience as convenient, safe Read More...

Best Airlines for Business Travelers

The growing interconnectivity of the world has led to an
increasing demand for business to be conducted on a national,
continental, and even global scale. As the fate of businesses
becomes more and more reliant on air travel, its important to know
what options are most beneficial to Read More...

5 Shortest and Longest Airplane Flights

For anyone whos taken a transcontinental flight, you know the
agony that can go along with hours upon hours of stifling
claustrophobia, stiffening limbs, and insomnia. But whats worse, a
19-hour flight from the other side of the world or all the hassle
that goes into just a Read More...

What are You Flying In?: The Types of Airplanes Airlines Use

They dot the sky and constantly remind us were in the modern
age: Airplanes fly millions of people to countless destinations in
every corner of the globe. But just who is behind all these winged
beasts hurling through the air up there? You might be surprised to
learn Read More...

Oh, the Flight Attendants Youll See

Many elements play into how your air travel experience turns
out. Your traveling attitude can be directed by something such as
the intent (business vs. pleasure) or who your fellow passengers
happen to be (family vs. boys/girls weekend). And finally, at the
end of the line, as you Read More...

100 Travel Hacks to Simplify Your Trips

The better you are at planning and organizing your vacations,
the simpler your travel will be. The following 100 travel hacks
will help you save time, save money and enjoy better trips. Travel
Hacks for Booking Travel Save time and money on booking travel with
the following ten hacks: 1. Use Read More...

7 Ways to Entertain Yourself at the Airport

Youre traveling alone. Maybe youre flying for business, maybe
youre meeting a friend half way across the country. Your flight
gets delayed significantly. Now what do you do with yourself? Youve
come to the right place because weve got the answers for you. Make
a friend. In our Read More...

50 Blogs to Read Before Going on a Golf Vacation

Golf vacations are an amazing experience whether its your
first time or your hundredth. Golf travel allows you to see new
places while improving your game and enjoying some relaxation. All
of these things are good for your mental wellbeing, making you a
more well-rounded person with a Read More...

New Face of the Airline Industry: The Continuing Trend of Mergers Acquisitions

Theyre common in almost every industry, but mergers and huge
industry structure shakeups seem to be a recurring trend in the
airline industry. From 1978, the beginning of the period now known
as deregulation, up until the mid-to-late 2000s, when the airlines
experienced a resurgence in profitability, legacy Read
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Whats Behind the Transportation Security Administration?

Whats Behind the Transportation Security Administration? They
are 50,000 strong and responsible for one of the most important
tasks necessary to keep Americans safe. They are the Transportation
Security Administration (TSA), a league of security agents,
inspectors, air marshals and more who keep our transportation
infrastructure safe presumably. Unfortunately, Read More...

Best Thanksgiving Destinations

Thanksgiving is traditionally a time for people to stay at
home and mingle with friends and family. However, it is also
an attractive time for travel, with cheap fares to some highly
popular destinations and major events taking place at cities around
the country. Here are some of Read More...

10 Best Travel Apps for the iPad

With new innovation comes new behavior. The explosion of the
iPad has beenno exception. No longer just a convenient and
uber-portable new computing device, the iPad is becoming the new
must-have gaget for travelers. Here is a list of the best
applications for traveling with an iPad. GPSed $1.99 Read
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Ways to Stretch Your Travel Budget

Ah, vacation time, the treasured reward for toiling away at
ones day-to-day life. It represents the time to put work aside and
focus on you/family/friends/significant others. With all the rest
and relaxation youll be undertaking you may still need to be
considerate of your spending. Peruse these helpful Read
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Making Holiday Travel Work for You

Theres no way to put this lightly the holidays are hectic.
Between social gatherings, family drama, shopping, cooking, and,
especially, traveling the responsibilities never end. The only way
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Well try to arm you with Read More...

Do Rental Car Companies Charge Extra for Frequent Flyer Miles?

Tim Winship explains that it's standard practice for rental
car companies to charge for frequent flyer miles, and advises it
may not be worth the expense.

Best Credit Cards for Earning Free Travel

Ready, set, charge your way to a free trip! Tim Winship
reviews the "best" cards around, and explains how to make them work
for you.

Can I Get My Elite Miles Back? Please!

When Delta changed our reader's schedule, he realized he
would earn fewer elite-qualifying miles. Should Delta award him the
original miles, or is he out of luck?

Credit Card Benefits -- Denied!

Kat's husband has a SkyMiles credit card, but Delta and
American Express are denying him a standard cardholder benefit. Tim
Winship reads the fine print.

Can I Transfer My Iberia Frequent Flyer Miles to American?

Since American and Iberia are frequent flyer partners, I
should be able to transfer miles from one program to the other,
right? Wrong, according to Tim Winship.

Help, Fuel Surcharges Are Making My 'Free' Ticket Unaffordable!

Not all airlines impose phony "extra" surcharges, writes Tim
Winship. Here's how to make sure your free ticket stays
free.

Help, My Frequent Flyer Miles Expired!

Sarah's 60,000 United miles suddenly disappeared, victim of
the airline's expiration policy. Can they be recovered? Tim Winship
explains the options, and the fees.

Georgia State wins school-record 11th in row

Richmond, Va.--Jihad Ali scored 17 points and grabbed 11
rebounds to lead Georgia State to its school-record 11th straight
victory, 55-53, at VCU Wednesday at the Siegel Center.

Today's Mike Luckovich cartoon 01/05

Mike Luckovich's take on Mitt Romney's bandwagon.

Neighbors worried about fate of mansion

A 180-year-old mansion in Athens Cobbham neighborhood is for
sale, and neighbors are worried about what might be built
there.

Ga. ag chief: Congress must fix immigration system

Congress must make a national guest worker program that's
easier for farmers to use now that states including Georgia have
passed laws targeting illegal immigrants that threaten possible
labor shortages in the fields, Georgia's agriculture commissioner
said Tuesday.

Temps in the teens in parts of metro Atlanta

The coldest air since last winter sent the mercury plummeting
into the teens across parts of metro Atlanta early Wednesday, but
temperatures are expected to warm into the 60s by week's
end.

Price of gasoline up 20 cents since Christmas

Gasoline prices are on the rise, and Atlanta motorists are
paying about 20 cents more per gallon than two weeks ago.

Emory bans use of tobacco on campus

Emory University's campus and hospitals are going
tobacco-free. The new policy at the private university in Atlanta
began Sunday and applies to all university and Emory Healthcare
properties.

Beware of DOL-related phishing schemes

TheDepartment of Licensing's bloghas a warning
about a phishing scheme.

Attorneys general rewind movie rental late-fees for customers nationwide

It was a bad Hollywood ending. After Hollywood Video and
Movie Gallery stores closed their doors, former customers
throughout the nation began complaining of collection notices added
to their credit files without any warning.

Bogus debt collectors seeking personal info

The Olympia Police Department is warning the public not to
give information to callers posing as debt collection companies who
attempt to collect personal information.

The Wrong Help Can Hurt

Federal and state officials banded together yesterday in
Seattle to expose immigration services scams and direct immigrants
to real help.

DOJ files antitrust suit to block the ATT and T-Mobile merger

At the end of todays Backpage.com news conference, Attorney
General Rob McKenna spoke about the civil antitrust lawsuit filed
by the US Department of Justice to block ATT Inc.s proposed
acquisition of T-Mobile USA Inc.

Happy birthday! Please sign our card.

Kristin's musings on signing coworker birthday cards. ...
And, oh yeah, it's All Consumings 4th birthday. Will you be so kind
as to sign our virtual cardby leavinga comment?

Protect Your ID Week: Shred to Protect

A great way to help protect your identity is to shred
anything that contains sensitive personal information, including
account numbers, birth dates, passwords or PINs, signatures, or
Social Security numbers.

Advance-fee loan scams: dont pay an up-front fee for a credit card

You shouldnt have to pay an up-front fee for a lower interest
rate credit card offer. In advance-fee loan scams, the lender
guarantees a credit card in advance for a fee before you even apply
and regardless of your credit rating. These offers are illegal and
often target people with credit problems.

My first order of business: Clean out the backlog of comments

Hello All Consuming blog readers. I am your new Blog
Moderator,Sarah Lane. As you know, Kristin Alexander has left
the office to pursue her theatrical dreams. So, I will be taking
over as the main contributor to the blog and the comment
reviewer.

Kristin Alexander takes her curtain call

As she departs her job topursue a dream,All
Consuming blog moderator Kristin Alexander touts a career in public
service.

Be a smart and safe shopper

Shopping during the holiday season can be exhilarating if you
find a treasured item for a bargain price, but it can also be a
nightmare if the gift never arrives, youre mugged on the way to the
car or your bank account is drained by a phishing scam. Here are a
few tips and resources to help keep you, your purchases and your
finances safe.

Beware, anyone can fall victim to a skimming scam

We have warned you before about skimming scams, and how hard
it is to detect the small bits of plastic on ATMs. Anyone can fall
victim and not realize it until after the thieves have racked up
large purchases using the stolen card information. This is includes
our states top law enforcer, U.S. Attorney Jenny Durkan.

Foreclosure prevention event this Saturday in Renton

The Korean Community Service Center and Northwest Justice
Project will host a free foreclosure prevention workshop this
Saturday, June 18, in Renton. Korean language interpreters will be
provided.

Driving fair car ads through settlements with dealers

The Washington Attorney Generals Office says too many car ads
violate consumer protection laws. The office announced eight
settlements today that are part of its ongoing work to steer
dealers towardfair business practices.

Tips to avoid becoming a victim of identity theft

You can reduce your likelihood of becoming an identity theft
victim, as well as cut down on unwanted sales pitches, by following
these guidelines.

Reebok will atone with refunds for deceptive advertising of EasyTone shoes

According to the Federal Trade Commission complaint, Reebok
made unsupported claims in advertisements that walking in its
EasyTone shoes and running in its RunTone running shoes strengthen
and tone key leg and buttock muscles more than regular
shoes.

Keys to avoiding locksmith fraud

Locking yourself out of your car or home is frustrating
enough. But imagine calling a locksmith then being charged double
or even more the quoted fee.

Too much of a good thing: Julia Roberts airbrushed face banned in the UK

The UK Advertising Standards Authority determined two
airbrushed magazine ads are "misleading."

Consumer Safety Tips to Guard against Online Counterfeiting and Piracy

Today, many consumers arent shopping til they drop. Rather,
theyre clicking on online deals until they getcarpal tunnel
syndrome. Beyond the tingling, weakness and finger or hand-muscle
damage that comes with the syndrome, there are other dangers,
too.

Protect Your ID Week: Child Identity Theft

Children, as well as adults, are at risk of being victims of
identity theft. It is a growing problem that can go on undetected
longer and is harder to recover from. Unlike adults, who should be
checking their bank and credit card statements and credit reports
regularly, children often dont know they have become a victim until
they grow up and are denied a student loan or credit card. By then,
the damage has been done and can be extensive.

Everett mover ordered to cease operations, pay fine

Today the Utilities and Transportation Commission ordered
Everett-based residential moving company A R Moving to cease and
desist. The mover was also fined $10,000 for refusing to obtain a
permit to legally operate a residential moving company within
Washington state.

Beware of bin Laden spam and computer viruses

Malware purporting to contain information on Osama bin Laden
is all over the Internet. This malicious software or "malware" can
embed itself in computers and spread to users' contact lists,
infecting the systems of associates, friends and family members,
the FBI warned today.

Bank of America home loan assistance events in May

Bank of America home loan customers experiencing financial
hardship are encouraged to attend upcoming customer events in
Bellevue and Spokane May 19-21.

Don't be stabbed by a spear-phisher

Traditional phishing scams have taken many consumers hook,
line and sinker. But even those who are sure they can sniff out the
bait may fall prey to spear-phishers.

Tips for data breach victims

If you shop, play video games or blog, your information may
have been compromised as part of a recent pile-up of data breaches.
We tell you what to do to minimize the chance that thieves make off
with your money or destroy your credit.

Cheney High School students show off their LifeSmarts

Congratulations to Cheney High School students, who
clungto pole position for two days during thenational
LifeSmarts championshipbefore ultimately taking eighth place
out of 33 teams. The competition tests students' wits about
finances, technology, health, government and the
environment.

Countering skimming scams

Skimming scamsare on the rise in Western Washington,
according to local cops, and you may not realize youve been taken
until long after thieves have stolen your credit card or debit card
information. Here's how to protect yourself ...

Sole, Inc., footing the bill for undelivered massage chairs

Consumers who bought massage chairs, bath tubs and range
hoods from a Bellevue-based company were left waiting and waiting
for their simulated shiatsu, soaks and steam ventilation, said the
Washington Attorney Generals Office.

Free credit monitoring for Sony PlayStation breach victims

Sony is promising a year of identity theft protection
services for PlayStation Network and Qriocity users, following its
recentdata breach.

Revamped car stickers incorporate smartphone technology

Want to know which new car is "greenest" or will really drive
down your cost at the pump? The Environmental Protection Agency and
the U.S. Department of Transportation unveiled the next generation
of fuel economy stickers required for new cars and trucks starting
with 2013 models. Automakers also have the option to start using
the labels for 2012 models.

Foreclosure mediation training

TheWashington Department of Commerceis offering
aforeclosure mediation training program on June 28 and June
29, 2011, at the Lynnwood Convention Center.

Phone scam targets Medicare participants

Illuminating tips for cutting your electric bill

A light bulb just went off above someones head at the Federal
Trade Commission. The agency had the bright idea to launch a
campaign to educate consumers about newer light bulbs. Halogen
incandescent, CFLs and LEDs last longer and use less energy than
traditional incandescent bulbs.

Math disorder may make consumers victims

Do you joke that youre not a numbers person? If so, you may
be among the estimated 1 in 20 adults impacted by dyscalculia, a
sort of math dyslexia.

Credit-card scammer wakes hotel guests

ThePuget Sound Business Journal reportedthat
scammers somehow hacked the phone system at a Seattle hotel in an
effort to obtain credit card numbers. Reports out of Texas prove
this isn't an isolated incident.

Will your Facebook photos destroy your job search?

Human resources professionals have rejected job applicants
based on what they found online. Weve told you that. But now theres
a company that creates a file of your online photos and posts for
employers.

Credit check company fined for selling consumer info

Teletrack, Inc,. has agreed to pay $1.8 million to
settleFederal Trade Commission allegationsthat the
company sold credit reports for marketing purposes, in violation of
the Fair Credit Reporting Act. According to the FTCs complaint,
Teletrack sells credit reports and other services to businesses
that mainly serve money-strapped consumers.

Attorneys general: Banks regulator still blocking our way

The federal regulator of the largest U.S. banks wants too
much power, state attorneys general complained this week in a
6-pageletterto the Office of the Comptroller of the
Currency. ...

Feds host child identity theft forum

TheFederal Trade CommissionandDepartment of
Justice Office for Victims of Crimearehosting a public
forum on child identity theft today in Washington, DC. The program
iswebcast live.

Voice mail snooping: how to protect yourself

Thephone hacking scandalthat led to the shutdown
of a British tabloid has many wondering whether the same thing
could happen in the U.S. The answer, apparently, is yes. Quite
easily, in fact, if you have never set a password on your mobile
phones voicemail.

New programs to help save your home

Facing foreclosure? New help is available.

WSBA Foreclosure Legal Aid Project gets $1 million boost

TheWashington Bar Association's Home Foreclosure Legal
Aid Projectwill continue helping homeowners, thanks to a $1.1
million grant from the Attorney General's Office. Since the program
began in June 2009,the WSBA, Northwest Justice Project and
hundreds of volunteer lawyers have helped Washington families in
crisis.

Google warns users infected by malware

Yesterday, Google started putting a yellow box with a warning
at the top of search results pages for users who may have been
infected with a certain kind of malware.

Dont get burned by summer scams

Its summer, and the sun is finally out! Unfortunately, so are
summer scammers, looking to make quick money by cheating you. To
help you stop them, the New York Attorney Generals Office has
published a brochure about how to identify and avoid summer scams.
And even though the information comes from across the country,
scammers operate the same way in Washington, and its a good idea to
be aware of the dangers out there this summer.

Be careful about what you carry in your wallet

Lots of Americans carry wallets around every day. Its a great
way to keep your cash, cards, and IDs organized. But wallets are
also easily lost or stolen, and if that happens to you when youre
carrying around the wrong kinds of information, it could make you
an easy target for identity theft. Fortunately,Mellody Hobson
and ABC Newshave some great tips on what to putand what not
to putin your wallet.

AG sues ReconTrust for illegal foreclosures

The Attorney General's Office is suing ReconTrust Company, a
subsidiary of Bank of America, for conducting illegal foreclosures
on thousands of Washington homeowners.

FBI, eBay warn of car sales scam

Thinking of buying a car online? Read this first.

California authorities sue law firms for mortgage fraud

California authorities sued multiple lawyers and others last
week for allegedly taking millions of dollars from homeowners in
states including Washingtonwho were promised mortgage
relief.

Protect Your ID Week: What to do if youre a victim of ID theft

As a victim of identity theft or fraud, you should take the
following steps as soon as possible.
Report the crime to the police or
sheriff's office.Place a fraud alert and/or security freeze on your
credit reports.Report the crime to your bank, creditors and credit
reporting agencies.Ask businesses to provide info about
transactions made in your name.Contact the Federal Trade
Commissions Identity Theft Hotline 1-877-IDTHEFT.

Its National Protect Your Identity Week

I will be sharing tips all week on how to guard against
identity theft and what to do if you are a victim of identity
theft. Identity theft is one of the fastest growing consumer scams
in America. Its difficult to know exactly how many victims exist,
but the numbers are staggering. Anationwide survey by Javelin
Researchestimates that 8.1 million adult Americans were
victims of identity fraud in 2010. Identity theft topped the FTC's
list of consumer complaints again in 2010, accounting for 19
percent of the 6.1 million complaints.