Joy To My World...

Joy Loo - New Website and Blog

2010-09-01T10:56:00.000-07:00

I finally have a new website. It has been a long time coming and I would like to invite you all to come take a look and leave me a comment on the design and new blog. Visit me at www.JoyLoo.me

Flash Cookies Explained

2010-05-25T19:22:00.000-07:00

Flash cookies are a new way of tracing your movement and storing a lot more information about you than with normal cookies. One major disadvantage of flash cookies is that you can’t locate them in your browser. They are not shown in the list of cookies that you can see when you take a look at the cookies that are currently saved in your web browser. Normal HTTP cookies can’t save more than 4 Kilobyte of data while Flash cookies can save up to 100 Kilobyte. If you want to try out how they work you could do the following.

Go to Youtube, increase or decrease the volume of the videos and delete all cookies afterwards. You will notice that the volume level is still at the same level when you close your browser and open it again. This is done with so called Local Shared Objects, better known as Flash cookies. The main question is of course how a computer can be checked for Flash cookies and how it would be possible to delete those cookies again.

This is actually a very tricky thing. I was searching for a way to check them on my computer but could not find it. After reading some information on the Adobe Flash Player website I was able to realize that the only possibility to check them was to open a page on the Adobe site which would show them.

The so called Settings Manager can be accessed from the Adobe website but is running locally on your computer. The Website Storage Settings display all Flash cookies that are currently saved on your computer. You can delete flash cookies from individual sites or all at once. It is also possible to increase or decrease the Kilobyte size of all information that are stored on your computer.

Adobe does not have access to the settings that you see in the Settings Manager or to personal information on your computer.

No Flash Cookies will be saved if you go into Global Storage Settings and disable the option “Allow third-party Flash content to store data on your computer”.

107 websites did store Flash cookies on my computer and I decided to delete all of them and disable the feature to be on the safe site. Did you know about Flash cookies ? How many did you find on your pc ?

Lamborghini Club America OC Run

2010-04-22T20:02:00.000-07:00

CLICK HERE TO SEE ALL PHOTOS

How To Import a Blog Into Facebook - Step by Step Guide

2010-04-06T00:57:00.000-07:00

This tip is for those that actually update their blogs and spend time calling themselves "bloggers"! Facebook has seemed to do away with the "notes" import function. Not really sure why... maybe to ensure that we all now use the applications provided by paying developers! One of the many caveats of using third party applications on Facebook are you could be releasing email accounts and other personal information, indexing your website visits, or phishing login information. And for most of us, disruption of any application is a big headache. So for those still interested in using Facebook to pull your blog in here's the way Facebook has hidden:

Log into Facebook account, go to the bottom of your home page and click on "Help Center"

Next click on the "Notes" under Facebook Applications and Features

click on the "Importing and exporting notes"

click on the "How do I import entries from an external blog?" then the Import A Blog link

Lastly, you just need to input your blog url into the window and click on "Start Importing" Your blog feed will automatically be pulled onto your Wall for you to share with your friends. To do this with a fan page is a little different. Will be my next post for those that are interested.

Lamborghini Club America OC Bull Run

2010-03-01T10:07:00.000-08:00

SUCCESS!!! The Lamborghini Club America and Joy Loo had its first run of the year yesterday which was met with great success in Orange County. We had perfect weather and a great variety of Lamborghinis, from Versace and LP670 Murcielagos to a twin turbo'd Gallardo - the brand was strongly represented with a total Lambo count of 59 (60 if you count the Reventon on display at the start of the run!). Along with creating an opportunity for Lambo owners to have a run fitting their requests, this run laid the ground work for other events to come this year. Please stay tuned for a full story with plenty of photos in the next issue of La Vita Lamborghini Magazine!

In the past week since the run, I have received hundreds of emails and dozens of phone calls from Lamborghini owners in California and other states asking about the next run, and when full details will be released on the Los Angeles to Monterey run in August www.ItalianStampede.com. A full press release is coming VERY soon, both are being planned as we speak! I am very proud of all of the buzz around the Lamborghini brand this past week, thank you again for supporting the Lamborghini Club America. Videos below from the day!

San Diego Personailty, and Lamborghini racer Bill Wu talks with Gordon "Lug Nutzz" Stewart Sunday before the OC Lamborghini Club run to Javier's Mexican Cantina in Newport Beach California! Bill's

Roy L. Cats talks Exotic Lamborghini's with Gordon "Lug Nutzz" Stewart. Listen to what Roy, and the late Great Frank Sinatra think of "Living the Lambo lifestyle...on "Lug Nutzz TV"!

Lamborghini Newport Beach Mgr, Grant Johnson & Gordon "Lug Nutzz" Stewart. OC and Southern California Lamborghini owners see Grant Johnson at Lamborghini Newport Beach the next time your lambo is in for scheduled or custom maintenance, 1470 Dale Way, Costa Mesa Ca, 92626, 714.881.4575 , or www.lambonb.com

Allan Fiedler at the LCA OC Run

Key Video From The World Economic Forum’s Social Networking Powerhouse Panel

2010-01-27T09:11:00.000-08:00

by Michael Arrington on January 27, 2010

Each year the World Economic Forum at Davos holds number of technology focused sessions. Last year I moderated a high profile discussion about the next digital experience. This year, Loic Le Meur is hosting a discussion on the growth of social networks.

Participants include Reid Hoffman (LinkedIn, Greylock), Owen Van Natta (MySpace), Gina Bianchini (Ning), Evan Williams (Twitter) and George Colony (Forrester Research) and Don Tapscott (nGenera). Randi Zuckerberg, Jeff Jarvis, Russian super-investor Yuri Milner and others also dropped by to participate.

The room is packed, standing room only, and bursting at the seams. These guys are popular in Silicon Valley. Bring them to Davos, Switzerland and everyone wants to hear what they have to say.

Each panelist is giving a short 3-4 minute talk on how they frame the interesting issues around social networking (Hoffman says, for example, that privacy is only an issue for old people, young people don’t care.). We have videos of most of these comments and will embed them below as we process them..

Seven of the 15 most traffic sites in the world are social sites, Colony says in his intro. Only 17% of online users will visit a social site each day, though, including mobile usage. This varies widely by age – 27% of those 25 and under will visit a social site each day.

Below are clips from Hoffman, Van Natta, Bianchini, Williams and Zuckerberg:

Jason Calacanis (possibly) spoils Apple tablet event, drops major details

2010-01-27T01:24:00.000-08:00

by Serkan Toto on January 27, 2010

Jason Calacanis isn’t a a nobody. He’s a serial web entrepreneur, founder of Weblogs, Inc., co-founder of TechCrunch50 and CEO of search engine Mahalo (amongst others). And just a few minutes ago, via his Twitter account, he (possibly) dropped some major hints on the Apple tablet that’s going to be presented tomorrow. Calacanis claims he has been given a tablet by Apple ten days ago, adding “For background: apple asked me to do press tomorrow on cnbc, cnn, etc.”.

If he isn’t pulling a major PR stunt (I think he isn’t), Calacanis is stoked. Here’s the gist of what he says about the device. I know many of you are sick of hearing about it, and this may turn out to be totally false info tomorrow – but what he said seemed just too interesting.

Calacanis’ impressions:

it’s “the most amazing device ever”
it’s “really amazing for newspapers”
video conferencing is “super stable”
battery life is “great” when it comes to reading ebooks but not so great (2-3 hours) in Wi-Fi mode or when playing games
tailor-made games are “sick”, on Wii level
the customized Farmville app (which Jobs is going to demo tomorrow with the CEO of the company behind it) is “insane”

Functions and features:

OLED screen
solar pad for recharging on the back (the device is mainly battery-powered)
the tablet is running on an iPhone OS variation
it can run multiple apps at the same time
it has thumb pads on each side (for mouse gestures)
fingerprint verification (up to 5 profiles can be registered on one device)
HDTV tuner, a PVR and a chess game built-in
back camera and front camera (quote: “u shoot what’s in front of you + yourself. Augmented video conferncing!”)
wireless keyboard + monitor connection for external monitors

Availability and price:

the tablet will be offered by Verizon and ATT
it will cost $599, $699 or $799, depending on the screen size and internal memory

Calacanis says he can’t reveal the name and can’t show pictures of the device (for two possible spy shots, see here). We know in a couple of hours if he was joking or not (he says he isn’t).

Social Net"work"ing Takes "Work" - The Art of Rerrerals

2010-01-21T12:30:00.000-08:00

Stand Out in Your Networks

Ever wonder why some people get a ton of referrals, business and results with Social Networking and others don’t? If you think about it, it is quite simple. People stink at building relationships. Let’s face it….the majority of professionals today are chasing money. They are so focused on “conquering” and are all about “what is in it for me” instead of thinking “What can I do for you?”.

The concept of giving to get seems to have been lost for many. Let’s take a look at traditional networking. They say the difference between regular folks and regular folks who are millionaires is one thing….networking. If you aren’t networking, then you aren’t serious about your business.

Is it enough to just network? NO! For just a moment think about the last networking opportunity you attended. Here is what a typical situation looks like…..people show up (for the most part), they have their business cards ready, they start chatting with whomever they come across, they immediately find ways to talk about their business, they might ask the other person a few questions (just to be polite), they force their business card on them and then go onto the next person. Most professionals are more concerned about what is being served for lunch versus the people they are meeting.

So let’s try this again…..imagine this….

You call the organizer of the networking group ahead of time to find out who are the top professionals they recommend you connect with.
You show up with the intention of meeting 2-3 of these highly recommend professionals.
When you find these 2-3 people, you let them know you specifically came to meet them and ask if you can learn more about their business.
You then ask them 5-6 on point and targeted questions all geared around understanding how you might be able to assist them.
You then let them know (only if you can) that you would like to refer business to them. Could you schedule a one on one so you have more time to learn about them.
You schedule that appointment on the spot.
You thank them for their time, ask them for their card and let them know you will be confirming the appointment with them.
You move to find the next person.
After the meeting, you send a handwritten thank you card (or email) telling them why you're glad you met them and what you are most looking forward to in your meeting.
A day before you send them a reminder email along with your cell phone number.
You meet with the person and use the agenda you created to learn about their ideal client, what a good referral looks like and to generate a list of 2-3 possible connections you can make for them.
You send a follow up email thanking them for the meeting and provide a list of the 2-3 people you plan on connecting them to.
You then send an email to the person and the person you want to connect them to. In the email you give a brief introduction for each person and the reason why you are connecting them. You then designate one person to make it their responsibility to set up a meeting. You state what you feel the purpose of their meeting.
You then follow up with the person you originally met with and schedule another meeting to talk about what happened for them.

This may sound like a lot of steps for networking. For me, if I am going to do something then I am going to maximize my time and money. If you don’t plan on generating results and don’t care about referrals then don’t follow the 14 steps.

I am continually amazed at just how “careless” and ineffective business professionals are at networking. Time is money. It takes about 3-5 hours to attend a networking event. (You have to include drive time, preparation and the actual meeting – this does NOT include follow up – most professionals skip the follow up) For me, every professional I meet is another person for a great relationship. It is about the quality of your meeting not the quantity. Most will tell you, they never forget me if they met me at a networking event.

Social Networking is NO different than traditional networking…..it is just done online. You can do the exact same 14 steps with Social Networking. Imagine what would happen if you did.

So what are you planning on doing right now to make a difference in ALL of your networking efforts? Online and Offline. I would love to hear your thoughts.

How To Promote Your Facebook Fan Page

2010-01-20T09:37:00.000-08:00

One of the most frequent questions is about the most effective ways to promote a Facebook fan page. There are differences between a Facebook Group and Facebook Fan Page.

Today we're discussing the most effective ways to implement and ways to promote your fan page:

Tip 1: Create fresh content for people to want to join:

Aggregate your blog feed. There are two (2) ways to import your blog feed into Facebook: Simply RSS allows to automatically update your fan page wall with your blog RSS. You may also want to import your blog feed to your fan page notes (for that go: “Edit page“, find “Notes” under “Application” and click “Edit“, then “Edit import settings” and at last provide your feed URL).

Try Static FBML is another app to keep in mind: it adds advanced functionality to your Page using the Facebook Static FBML application. This application will add a box to your Page in which you can render HTML or FBML (Facebook Markup Language) for enhanced Page customization.

Add a personal note: Add your personal photos, personal welcome-videos are also great (create a short video welcoming your fans and describing what they can do on your page)

Provide a place for interaction/self promotion: Start a thread on your Discussion Board that allows your fans to promote their sites or inviting to share Twitter IDs and to follow each other.

Round 2: Invite your friends to join

There’s no way to invite all your friends in bulk but you can spend a few minutes to select (all) your friends and send an invitation to them; Now, once you are done, go ahead and ask your best friends to invite people as well

Round 3: Try social ads

The best thing about Facebook advertising (well actually there are two: one is that you can pay as little as $1 per day to test it and the second one…) is that it can be very well-targeted (still, it won’t work for all niches and campaign types but sometimes it works quite well). The Facebook ad campaign can be targeted to:

Location
Age group
Sex
Education
Keywords
Work place
Relationship status
Language
Connections (fan page, event or group) – this means you can for example target fans of your competitor
Friends’ connections

Round 4: Promote on Twitter

If you (or your friends) have solid following on Twitter, promote your Facebook fan page there.

Besides, you can link your page to your Twitter account by simply clicking this link:

There you can select to share status updates, links, photos, notes, and events with your followers on Twitter, directly from your Facebook Page thus promoting it to your Twitter followers.

Round 5: Leverage your email contacts

Doing business and networking on the Internet, you are likely to have a huge number of contacts in your email address book, import that into Facebook.

Include your page URL in your email signature for business correspondence;
Include your page URL in your email signature for Customer support, customer status updates
Leverage Gtalk status: let your facebook fan page URL display whenever your IM contact hovers over your profile name

10 Reasons Why Businesses Need Facebook

2010-01-17T23:39:00.000-08:00

Everyone seems to be using Facebook to connect with old friends, but do you realize what this huge network could mean for your business? In the past 3 years, Facebook has surged past MySpace and businesses are catching on.

Interesting research shows just how influential Facebook has become in our daily lives. Combined with several critical adjustments to how Facebook publishes “news” and intersects with other sites, the state of Facebook is emerging and that’s a big deal for your business.

Here are 11 vital reasons your business needs to be involved with Facebook:

1. 350 Million Global Users and Counting

Facebook announced recently that they had passed 350 million members, making Facebook the third-largest country in the world, if it was a country. (Perhaps that’s their end-game, joining the UN and raising an army?)

2. 100 Million U.S. Users

Sure, Facebook is strong around the world (Canada has the highest penetration rate), but nearly 1/3 of all Facebookers are here in the U.S. You may have heard of a TV show called American Idol. On a good night, it averages 20 million viewers. Facebook has 100 million American members.

3. Average Facebook User Spends 55 Minutes Per Day

Nearly 1 hour per day, per user. That’s a lot of Facebook time. How can your company grab a bit of consumer attention? This data is based on Facebook’s own published stats, covered by Inside Facebook.

4. Nearly 80,000 Sites Using Facebook Connect

Connect is the Facebook initiative that has the greatest long-range impact. By integrating Facebook closely, sites are making our personal social graphs truly portable. Instead of having to go to Facebook and other sites to visit our friends, they travel with us online (and in our pockets via mobile devices), always there to provide advice or commentary. Even Yahoo! and MySpace are rolling out deep Facebook integrations. This of course makes Facebook the central hub of not just social media, but the web as well (which is why Google is scrambling to catch up after their competing Google Connect fell flat).

5. Facebook Fan Box Becoming Pervasive

Perhaps the least powerful, but most prevalent, flavor of Facebook Connect is Facebook Fan Box, a simple tool for enabling your website visitors, YouTube video watchers, or email newsletter recipients to become a fan of your brand—without even having to go to Facebook.

6. Average Facebook User Has 130 Friends

Will Facebook users continue to add more friends at a rapid pace? It depends upon how they view their Facebook connections. 130 friends almost bumps up against Dunbar’s Number of 150—the theoretical maximum number of actual friend relationships you can sustain, according to British scientist Robin Dunbar.

If Facebook continues to revolve around relationships that you actually possess in three dimensions—people you “actually” know—then the addition of bunches of new friends may slow considerably. But, if Facebook makes the leap to tie people together more casually (like Twitter), average friend counts could rise dramatically.

7. Average Facebook User “Fans” 2 Pages per Month

If you think tons of your customers should become fans of your company’s Facebook page, you might want to recalibrate your expectations. The average Facebook user “fans” only 2 new pages per month. That’s not a lot, considering how many brands, causes, and organizations we come into contact with on a regular basis.

If you’re going to make growth of your Facebook fan base a key part of your social media strategy, you must create a clear rationale for why consumers should participate with you.

You also might consider a robust, organized approach for promoting your Facebook fan page. (This case study from Souplantation/Sweet Tomatoes has some good advice.)

8. Only 4% of Pages Have 10,000 or More Fans

If your Facebook fan page is a bit of a ghost town, you’re not alone. A fantastic study by Sysomos of 600,000 Facebook fan pages shows that only 4% of pages have 10,000 or more fans—and only .76% have 100,000 or more.

That’s why it is so critical to focus your Facebook strategy on activating the fans you have, not just collecting fans like baseball cards.

9. Wall Posts Don’t Impact Popularity

The Sysomos study also found very little correlation between how frequently the Facebook page admin posted to the Wall and total number of fans. However—and this is important—there is a strong correlation between amount of other content (notes, links, photos, videos) and number of fans.

Thus, if you want to grow your Facebook fan base, it is imperative that you move beyond simple Wall posts and add photos, videos, links and other content.

10. Customized News Feed

Facebook’s recent move to an algorithm-driven news feed means that just because someone is your fan does not mean he will see your Wall posts or status updates (true for both individuals and brands). Instead, the default news feed is now comprised of content that Facebook thinks you’ll like, based on your interactions with content from that author in the past, and interactions by your friends with that content.

This puts a tremendous premium on posting engaging content that will get comments and likes and shares. If you’re not paying attention to your content engagement scores within your Facebook analytics, start doing so now, and testing content types to see what works best for your brand.

11. Real-time Search Changes the Game

Facebook is now making most content available publicly, unless you tell them not to via your privacy settings. Twitter opened their data stream to anyone (not just big developers). Google and Bing are incorporating this data into search results, in real time.

This has tremendous implications for search engine optimization and reputation management, because a negative status update about your brand might now show up on the first page of Google search results for your company name (at least temporarily). The shakeout is still happening, but someone in your company needs to be on top of real-time search. Today.

Facebook may not be the ideal environment for every social media initiative, but its huge size forces you to at least consider participating—regardless of what type of business you run. Everyone from the ultra-small business to the Fortune 500 corporation are placing bets on Facebook.

Is your business taking advantage of Facebook? How important is it to your social media efforts? What advice do you have for creating content and managing Facebook fan pages? Please comment below.

Is Ford Repositioning Itself as a "Tech Company" instead of a Car Company??

2010-01-04T09:15:00.000-08:00

8 Tech Trends To Watch This Week at CES

(CNN) -- If you like bold predictions, here's one, courtesy of the president and CEO of the Consumer Electronics Association, which hosts the massive Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Nevada, this week:

"In my 28 years of attending the CES and participating in it and being a part of it and running it for most of that time, I can honestly say there will be more innovation at this show than any one in history," Gary Shapiro said.

This from the head of the yearly show that has launched such big tech ideas as compact disc players, high-definition television and Blu-ray.

CES is the year's largest consumer technology trade show and one of the best chances to see new technologies before they hit the market.

Despite Shapiro's enthusiasm, though, this week's CES buzz may be dampened by the lingering economic recession and the fact that big announcements from Google and Apple are likely to bookend the show this month.

On Tuesday, Google is expected to launch its own mobile phone called Nexus One, and rumors are flying that Apple will unveil a touch-screen tablet computer January 26. Neither of the tech giants is scheduled to exhibit at CES, although Google said in an e-mail to CNN that it will attend a CES media event.

Watch a video about what to expect from CES

Attendance at CES 2009 plunged 20 percent compared with 2008 numbers, largely because of the economic recession, Shapiro said. The number of people at CES this week is estimated to hold flat at about 110,000 people.

Still, after a slump in 2009, some market analysts predict a brighter future for consumer electronics this year -- and the innovative CES that Shapiro predicts could blossom from this preliminary optimism.

Here is our take on eight of the hottest consumer tech trends to watch at CES. Add your ideas in the comments below. And reply to this CNN iReport assignment with questions you would like CNN to answer at CES this week or cool gadgets you want to see.

We will do our best to report back with answers.

Tablets and midsize screens

Size is everything in computing these days. Netbooks -- those 8- to 10-inch dumbed-down laptops -- were big news in 2009. This year, they may be eclipsed by an abundance of other midsize computing devices.
Video: Gadgets, gizmos galore
RELATED TOPICS

* International Consumer Electronics Show
* Consumer Electronics Association
* Technology

"There's the large screen, which is the television. There's the small screen, which is the wireless phone or the smartphone," Shapiro said. "Then there's a middle category, where there's a tremendous opportunity for growth.

"That's the netbook, the smartbook, the dualbook, the nettop, the desktop, the laptop -- tablets. There's a lot going on in that middle screen-size space."

Toteable "tablet" computers ditch keyboards in favor of touch-screen interfaces. Apple's rumored tablet is getting all of the buzz from tech blogs, but Shapiro said CES will debut tablet computers that run on the Android operating system that Google produces.

Bloggers expect Dell to be among the companies introducing an Android tablet.

E-books and e-readers

Heard of the Amazon Kindle? The Barnes & Noble Nook? The Sony Reader?

All of these e-readers -- portable devices that let readers consume digital books without the eye strain caused by computer monitors -- will face new competition at CES this year.

Look for an ultralight e-reader from Plastic Logic that's big enough to display a standard sheet of letter paper. It's called the QUE.

Futurist Ray Kurzweil tells Wired magazine that he will debut a color e-reader interface at CES called Blio. The software is expected to work on a number of devices, from e-readers to tablets and phones.

Look for new e-readers with color screens at CES as well.

TV + Internet, or "Smart TV"

TVs will continue to morph into living room-based computers in 2010. The industry calls the new generation of televisions "Smart TVs" or "Connected TVs," and they do things like download Netflix films, stream Pandora music, check e-mail and communicate with other electronic devices in the home.

The idea isn't especially new, but the interfaces are changing. Plus, Shapiro said, Internet-connected TVs stand to shake up the cable industry.

"You may need the cable company to get broadband, but you may not need it to get cable services" when more TVs connect to the Internet, he said.

One spinoff trend to watch: Several new services, like Boxee, offer interfaces to help couch potatoes surf Internet video without having to jump from one TV network's Web site to another.

The software side of Internet-enabled-television trend is likely to be hot at CES as well. Boxee is expected to offer hardware that connects TVs to Internet content, too.

Mobile TV

In June, the U.S. switched from analog to digital television (goodbye, rabbit ears!). A quiet side effect of that change: U.S. television signals now can be viewed on mobile devices like smartphones and portable media players.

Shapiro said mobile television will be a major focus of CES, and products that play live TV on the go should hit the market in 2010.

Cydle, a South Korean company, says it will debut mobile TV products for cars. And iMovee announced that it will unveil several mobile TV products.

Look for South Korean mobile phone and electronics maker LG to get in the U.S. mobile TV market as well, as is rumored by tech blogs.

3-D TV, games and laptops

In the wake of hit 3-D movies like "Avatar" and "Up," several TV makers including Sony and Panasonic have announced plans to sell 3-D television to consumers in 2010. Most of the products demonstrated so far require viewers to wear clunky 3-D glasses in order for images to jump off of the screen.

New at CES, Shapiro said, will be 3-D technology from 3M that does not require glasses for viewing -- as well as laptops and video games that display three-dimensional images.

AMD and Blu-ray also say they will demonstrate high-definition 3-D home entertainment at CES. In December, Blu-ray announced that it had arrived at a technology standard for producing content in three dimensions.

Connected cars

Cars are turning into computers. Ford and other automakers have announced in-car wireless Internet. Ford will offer one of the keynote addresses at CES, which emphasizes the growing importance of the in-car technology industry, Shapiro said.

"We expect them to say something fairly significant," he said, adding: "They are also positioning themselves as a tech company rather than a car company."

The emergence of mobile television also probably means live TV will come to automobile consoles and headrests soon.

Once that happens, Shapiro said, a whole new avenue for the advertising industry will open up. A family watching TV in their car while driving through North Dakota, for instance, might see TV ads about local attractions and eateries. A trip to New York might yield entirely different ads.

Android everywhere

Despite the recession, smartphones -- those mobile devices like the BlackBerry and iPhone that work almost like computers -- were hot buys in 2009.

Expect a fair bit of mobile-phone buzz at CES, although Google's rumored announcement of its Android phone on Tuesday -- and the absence of Apple, maker of the iPhone -- could dampen some of the intrigue.

But Shapiro said new phones using the Android platform will be unveiled at CES.

The Android platform, which runs on phones like the Droid and myTouch, also is expected to extend its reach from smartphones into other electronics like televisions.

Apps and accessories

With consumer spending down, cheap buys like mobile phone applications and accessory electronics may take center stage at CES.

Apple's iPhone is the dominant device for using mobile applications. The iTunes app store has sold more than 2 billion apps since it opened in July 2008.

An iLounge at CES will feature 100 exhibitors with Apple-related products, including new mobile phone applications, Shapiro said. Expect that to be a big draw as iPhone owners look for the next big games and app functions.

In addition to the apps, touch-screen cameras, a third generation of USB data cables and GPS add-ons for phones all could be big CES finds.

Full Specs of Google's NexusOne Revealed

2009-12-28T22:50:00.000-08:00

Details we've all been waiting for... the Google Nexus One phone. We posted a Nexus One Android 2.1 walkthrough video earlier this month and today Engadget has managed to score a full spec sheet for the phone, as well as some details about its release date.

According to Engadget’s source, the phone will initially be available by “invitation only.” It looks like Google will be deciding who gets invites (hey, Google, call me), but the specifications also indicate that T-Mobile will be able to sell the phone directly to the customers in the future.

The Breakdown

Here are some highlights from the screenshots that Engadget posted:

- 512MB RAM, 512MB ROM, included 4GB microSD card, expandable to 32GB

- 5 megapixel camera with LED flash and mechanical autofocus

- 3.7″ WVGA AMOLED screen — in other words, as big as the Droid and brighter

- Worldwide GSM/EDGE, but 3G only on T-Mobile in the US (supports 2100, 1700 and 900 frequencies, meaning Europe should be covered)

- 1GHz Qualcomm chip — if accurate, that would make the Nexus One one of the fastest — if not the fastest — smartphones on the market.

- Wi-Fi A/B//G/N

- Bluetooth 2.1

- GPS

- Accelerometer

The specs look solid, the phone matches or beats every competing Android phone on the market (aside from having no physical keyboard) and also compares quite favorably to the iPhone (faster processor, nicer screen, wireless-N).

The only caveat for potential U.S. buyers is that, barring some sort of firmware upgrade (assuming the 1900 band is just disabled), this phone will only work in 3G in T-Mobile’s network. If you live in a large city, that might not be a problem, but T-Mobile does have the smallest 3G footprint of any of the major U.S. wireless carriers.

For international users, this is really enticing, because the phone should be compatible with all UMTS bands in Europe, Asia, South America and Australia/New Zealand.

Now all we need is a solid release date and a price. My friends are ready to buy this sight-unseen. What about you? What do you think of the Nexus One?

Private Tour of General William Lyon Collection

2009-12-14T21:42:00.000-08:00

Last month General William Lyon opened up his home for a private collection tour for a fundraising campaign benefiting Congressman John Campbell. I have never seen so many absolutely amazing vehicles under one roof! See the picture slide show below of The General's one of a kind collection.

OC Icon William Lyon Opens Air Museum

2009-12-14T20:36:00.000-08:00

Lyon Air Museum, next to John Wayne Airport, features aircraft and automobiles from the 1930s and 1940s.

Major General William Lyon never fails to enter an event in grand style. At the Grand Opening on Thursdady, December 10th, he may have made the biggest entrance of his long — and celebrated — life.

The former head of the Air Force Reserve, 85 year old man who's met six presidents, built 100,000 homes and once cracked the Forbes 400 list of richest Americans, and one of the magnates of Orange County development, Lyon chose to arrive at the grand opening ceremony of his new Lyon Air Museum in the cockpit of a Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress “Fuddy Duddy.”

The museum sits adjacent to John Wayne Airport and features 1930s and 1940s aircraft and automobiles, and is docented by military veterans, including many who served during World War II.

The shiny chrome and yellow Fuddy Duddy pulled up to an open hangar door directly in front of a blue ribbon, which Lyon cut with his wife, Willa Dean Lyon, after exiting the aircraft. Lyon was suited in his vintage uniform, as did many guests in attendance at the 30,000-square-foot facility.

Local news anchor Ed Arnold emceed the event, which also featured an honor guard from the Los Angeles Air Force Base.

“This is a really special day for myself, and of course my family,” Lyon said. “This is kind of the fulfillment of a dream that I had a long time ago.”

He said he was proud that the museum will offer its services to local school districts, to give children a first-hand view of the most important event of the 20th century.

It was a humbling feeling to actually get to meet the brave men who battle Pearl Harbor attack. One of its docents, 89-year-old Jack Hammett of Costa Mesa, was in Pearl Harbor on the day it was bombed; he also took part in D-Day and served in North America.

The Lyon Air Museum broke ground in 2007, after the retired Air Force general realized a way to fulfill his dual passions for aviation history and for educating today’s youth about the “Greatest Generation of Aviation.” (The museum also makes for a handy place to stash his significant collection of aircraft and vehicles.)

Lyon served in Europe, the Pacific and North Africa during World War II; he went on to fly combat missions in Korea before becoming Chief of the Air Force Reserve from 1975 to 1979.

Highlights at the new museum include an authentic Helms Bakery truck, which used to make the rounds throughout the Southland in the 1940s, and a 1939 Mercedes-Benz Model G4 Offener Touring Wagon that was personally used by Adolph Hitler during World War II, until it was seized by the French army.

Bedecking the walls alongside an on-site movie theater are two large-scale maps of the European and Pacific Theaters of Operations.

If you are ever in the area, I would recommend stopping in for a tour. The docent's are cute older men with a wealth of knowledge that will have you at "ears" for hours. For more information on the Lyon Air Museum, call (714) 210-4585 or visit lyonairmuseum.org.

Here's to the crazy ones.. "Think Different"

2009-12-09T22:30:00.000-08:00

"Here's to the crazy ones, the misfits, the rebels, the troublemakers, the round pegs in a square hole, the ones who see things differently. They're not fond of rules, and they have no respect for status quo. You can quote them, disagree with them, glorify or vilify them.

About the only thing you can't do is ignore them, because they change things. They push the human race forward, and while some may see them as the crazy ones, we see genius, because the people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world, are the ones who'll do it."

Apple Computer 9.27.97

6th Annual Gerhard Schnuerer Toys for Tots Drive

2009-12-09T11:00:00.000-08:00

From Gerhard Schnuerer Toy Drive

This past Sunday I attended the Toys for Tot drive held by Gerhard in Huntington Beach. The event was highlighted by the surprise appearance of the 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. Even parked amidst two classic gullwing SLS and beside a new SL65 Black Series, the neo-gullwing drew the lion's share of the attention from the crowd. The car sounded fantastic and we had to admit we'd be hard pressed to choose between it, the Black Series, the nearby CLK DTM cabrio, the SLR or SLR Roadster as our favorite modern Mercedes.

Gerhard and Rosemarie Schnuerer once again hosted this annual toy drive and car show co-sponsored by Mercedes-Benz USA. The food served to all attendees was off the chain... yummy homemade Bratwurst, Sauerkraut, and Goulash. The Schnuerer collection of classic and new Mercedes, sidecar motorcycles and WWII military craft was quite spectacular. The couple regularly participates in local Concours events and they've won more than a few trophies with these rides. All of their vehicles are restored and in good running order. Some say the Mercedes Classic Center was built in Irvine so they would be close to Gerhard, their best customer.

As cool as the Schnuerer collection is to see in person, our favorite part of this event is the fact that they fire up several of the vehicles and take people for rides in them. I got to take a ride in the 1886 Benz Patent Motor-Wagen. It's a terrific event with about 550 guests enjoying holiday cheer along with some great German food served up WWII-Style in a Gulaschkanone Military Field Kitchen. This year's event also featured live music, silent and live auctions and a series of raffles.

The live auction was emceed by TV automotive reporter, Dave Kunz, to raise money for Toys for Tots among other charities. Several prizes were auctioned ranging from pedal cars to a weekend rental of an AMG Mercedes-Benz SL63. Le Mans winner Justin Bell was even on hand to donate a special experience at the Jay Leno Show, where he serves as driving coach to the stars in the Green Car Challenge. Several thousand dollars were raised and approximately 1500 toys collected this year, easily surpassing last year's total. While we're glad there will be hundreds more kids getting gifts this year, we got ours just by being there.

click here to see more photos : JoyToMyWorld

Manfred Fitzgerald - Lamborghini - The importance of brand, brand diversification - MeettheBoss

2009-12-02T18:02:00.000-08:00

Manfred Fitzgerald - Lamborghini - The importance of brand, brand diversification - MeettheBoss

Like it or not, social media is becoming a business necessity

2009-11-23T17:40:00.000-08:00

Consider this: if Facebook were a country, it would be the eighth largest in the world by population, ahead of both Japan and Russia.

When I talk to people about using social media to market their business, I usually get one of two responses. Either they love using Facebook and Twitter or they really don't see what all the fuss is about. Unfortunately, both are missing the point.

Social media is probably one of the biggest developments in business since e-mail. Never before has the communications playing field been so level. Social media allows for a single-person, sole proprietorship to have the same potential consumer impact as a Fortune 100 company, without the million-dollar advertising budget.

And yet people still misunderstand social media or, even worse, ignore it completely as a fad.

Take my two earlier examples of responses. The first guy thinks social media is all about Facebook pages and Twitter statuses. The fact is, there are literally hundreds of options in the social media pantheon. The trick is figuring out which ones work best for communicating with your target audience and focusing your attention on those.

As popular as Facebook is, it might not be your best choice. This takes time and attention that not every small business owner might have. This is where outsourcing or contract work comes in handy. A good consultant will help you research your market and decide on the best course of action, while leaving you free to run your business.

Even worse is the second response - indifference. These are the people with their proverbial heads in the sand, assuming all of this social media hooplah will fade away.

Social media is not a fad, and it is not just for kids. Businesses small and large are making lots of money using this social media stuff. Look at upstart blender maker BlendTec, for example. They struck marketing gold with their popular "Will It Blend?" videos on YouTube and saw their sales increase five times as a result.

Now before you grab a digital camera and try your hand at becoming a viral video director, you should know that BlendTec invested a lot of time (if not money) in producing their video series. This is key. You must be prepared for the real cost of social media marketing. What you don't spend in dollars, you will spend in sweat equity.

But at the end of the day, if it's done right, the return on your investment could be legendary...and profitable

SOCIAL NETWORKING GOD: 350+ Social Networking Sites

2009-11-23T12:56:00.000-08:00

One of the main topics buzzing around is social networking. We got an extensive list from Mashable.com and posted them below. Enjoy.

Feel free to add more apps in the comments.

Books

Americabookshelf.com – One of the largest book exchange clubs across the US.

BooksConnect – A book sharing community site connecting readers, authors, publishers, librarians and booksellers.

BookCrossing.com – A community of users from over 130 countries who exchange books with each other at public places like cafes, parks etc.

Bookhopper.co.uk – Free community for UK residents to share used books with each other.

Bookins.com – Book sharing website that enables members to exchange used books with each other in real time.

BookMooch.com – An interesting concept where users can exchange books with others through points. Users gain points when they give books to others.

Booksalescout.com – Online community of users allowing them to sell books in the US.

Bookswim.com – Book borrowing service with free shipping for registered website.

ConnectViaBooks – A social networking site connecting book lovers and enabling them to discover other similar interests.

GoodReads – GoodReads is a book reader’s community enabling members to review, share books they have been reading.

PaperBackSwap.com – Users can share books amongst each other and only pay for the delivery charges.

Pazap.com – A book trade engine for students to buy and sell old books.

Read It Swap It – A free service that allows users to exchange books with others.

Revish – Revish is another community for book lovers, letting them review their favorite books, group up, or simply tell the world what they’re currently reading.

Shelfari () – Shelfari is a popular social networking service for book lovers.

Socialbib – Book swapping network between students.

Business Networking & Professionals

AdvisorGarage – It is an online directory of advisers who are willing to assist budding entrepreneurs.

ArtBreak – ArtBreak is an artist community for sharing and selling artwork.

Blogtronix – Blogtronix promotes corporate social networking, enterprise 2.0 and wikis.

Commutal – Commutal is an online sharing platform for businesses to create media rooms, participate in domestic groups and share event happenings with each other.

CompanyLoop – An online co-working community for global businesses.

ConnectBeam – Connectbeam offers social networking specially designed for corporate users.

Decorati – An interior designer community enabling users to post items for sale and for exchange.

DoMyStuff – A good site for working professionals looking to find online assistants.

Doostang – An invite only career community for professionals.

Fast Pitch – It is a quickly growing business networking community in corporate world. Its online provides users with a one-stop shop network to market their business.

iKarma Inc. – iKarma is a specialist in providing customer feedback for organizations and professionals.

ImageKind – ImageKind is a community and marketplace for professional artists.

Jambo – Jambo lets you connect with your neighborhood friends.

Jigsaw – An online business card networking directory for users to establish contacts with each other. Each business card is listed with an email id and a contact number.

Konnects – Konnects enables members to create their own professional networking communities.

Lawyrs – A professional social networking community for lawyers.

Linkedin () – LinkedIn is a professional social networking website for business users, one of the most popular such sites out there. Some aspects of it are free, but many are paid.

mediabistro.com – mediabistro.com is for professionals in content or creative industry.

Pairup.com – Pairup connects business travelers assisting them to travel together.

Ryze.com – A site for establishing new connections and growing networks. Connections for jobs, building career and making sales.

Spoke.com – Spoke offers access to business network of over 40 million people worldwide.

Visible Path – Visible Path helps organizations to integrate social networking into their existing tools.

WebCrossing Neighbors – It provides a private label social network with personal spaces and user groups.

XING () – XING is a networking directory of business contacts powering relationships between business professionals allowing users to connect with each other.

Family

Amiglia – A family networking service enabling users to connect to family members by publishing and sharing family trees, photos etc.

CafeMom – CafeMom is a social networking site for mothers to connect and share thoughts with each other.

Cingo – Cingo users connect with each other to organize their family life.

CommonGate – A social networking platform that enables users to create their own social network for their friends, family or organization.

Family 2.0 – Family 2.0 helps you create your own family social network, you can add family members, send personalized emails and create event alerts.

Famiva – A premier social network to connect with family members and relatives in a secure environment.

Famster – A private secure social network for family members.

Geni.com – An exciting social networking site enabling members to create their family tree. Although it’s a relatively new site, it has grown tremendously fast, and has hundreds of thousands of users.

Genoom – Genoom creates a meeting place for its site users. They can create a family network by inviting their relatives and discover their past memories.

Kincafe – An ideal social network for families to connect with their beloved ones.

Kinzin – Kinzin is an online meeting place for families to share family events, photos, stories and recipes.

MayasMoM – A family networking site for parents.

Minti – A collaborative parenting site.

MomJunction – MomJunction allows mothers to find reliable answers to questions, create private spaces with friends and build communities.

MothersClick – MothersClick connects mothers in a neighborhood with each and provides parenting advice to them.

myfamily.com – An excellent way to connect with your family members.

OneGreatFamily.com – An online shared database with combined knowledge and data at a single place.

OurStory.com – OurStory enables users to share stories of their families with others.

Parentography – A social network offering advice and advice for families.

The Family Post – A sharing network for communication with family members.

Friends

43 Things – A tagging based social networking site. Users create accounts and list a number of goals or hopes and these are parsed based on similarity to goals of other users.

Amitize.com – Amitize is a worldwide friendship network.

aSmallWorld – aSmallWorld is a private online community designed for individuals who would like to connect, re-connect to share similar thoughts with each other.

Badoo.Com – Badoo is a dynamic multi-lingual social networking site with innovative photo and video features that allows its users worldwide to gain an instant mass audience and interact both locally and globally.

Bebo () – Bebo is a hugely popular site (especially in the UK), and similar in philosophy to MySpace (). It allows users to communicate with their friends in multiple ways including blogging, sending messages and posting pictures.

Eons – An online gathering place for the elderly; most of the users are over the age of 50 years.

Facebook.com – Facebook () is a social networking phenomenon connection people with their friends, family and other users with similar interests.

Faceparty – A UK based community social networking website. It started for youngsters but has now risen to popularity among all age groups.

Flingr – Flingr allows users to connect with all categories of friends – colleagues, college mates and school buddies.

Friendster () – It is a popular global social network for finding new friends and developing friendships as well as searching old friends.

hi5 () – Hi5 is a prominent social networking service in India with over 40 million users. However, Hi5 has recently experienced an upsurge beyond India and has shown increasing popularity in EU too.

Lovento – Lovento allows you to discover news friends and also find information about latest events.

Multiply.com – Multiply () is a social networking website providing easy way to share digital media which includes photos, videos and music.

Mycool – Mycool enables members to find and share their interests with special groups.

MySpace.com () – MySpace is an interactive social networking website consisting of personal profiles, blogs, groups, photos, music and videos. It’s currently the biggest social networking site out there, and while it might not be the most advanced one, the users seem to love its simplicity.

NetFriendships.com – A comprehensive social networking site enabling users to make new online friends and discover old ones.

Netlog – A social community of more than 20 million young Europeans.

Orkut () – Orkut is a social networking service owned by Google (). It enables users to meet new friends and create communities.

Passado – Passado is Europe’s no.1 re-union website connecting members with friends from school to workplace.

Piczo – Piczo offers safe social networking environment to youngster around the world. Piczo users can design their personal website with photos, videos etc. and share it with their friends.

Plazes – A social networking website for connecting with local users.

Pownce.com – Pownce is a mix of social networking and microblogging. It enables users to send messages, files, events and links with each other.

ProfileHeaven.com – A UK based social networking site for teenagers.

reunion.com – A leading online service for discovering old friends, classmates and family members.

Vox.com – Vox () is a social blogging service where users share their ideas, photos, videos with family and friends.

Xanga () – Xanga is one of the biggest social networking platforms with features of sharing photos, photos and videos.

XuQa – An online college social networking site with poker gaming features.

Hobbies & Interests

ActionProfiles.com – It is social networking community for sports and action. The features of the website are profiles of users with photographs and videos, reviews of products and job discussion boards.

Arts community – Arts community provides a dynamic community experience by providing extensive listing of exhibitions, events and openings.

BeGreen – BeGreen is a community that aims to generate environmental awareness for users.

beRecruited – beRecruited is a dedicated online community for sportpersons and coaches.

BottleTalk – BottleTalk is a wine lover’s community making it easy for members to share their drinking experiences.

CarGurus – An automobile community website enabling users to post car reviews, photos and share opinions.

Change – Change is a nonprofit social networking website that connects like minded users and allows them to exchange information.

ChangingThePresent – A nonprofit fund raising community with membership of over 400 nonprofits.

ChickAdvisor – ChickAdvisor is a sharing community for women users.

CircleUp – CircleUp is one of the best community website connecting users to groups, clubs for knowledge sharing, information exchange.

Coastr () – Coastr connects beer lovers with each other.

ColShare – ColShare is a community for people who have hobby of collecting items like coins, stamps etc.

coRank – A rating community for users to share interesting information on internet.

DailyStrength – A huge community of over 500 groups dealing with health issues and various medical challenges.

Dundoo – Dundoo enables users to create image collages out of social networking profile. A big amount of ads on the site somewhat diminishes the overall impression.

Flixster () – Flixster is a community for movie lovers.

FuelEmpire – FuelEmpire brings automobile enthusiasts together at one place.

GirlSense – A community for girls to promote their fashion designs & creations.

Greenvoice – An online networking platform for people who are conscious about the environment, who want to inform each other on environmental issues and create a difference.

iYomu – iYomu is an adult social networking website and it allows users to search for site members who have similar interests or for business needs.

Motortopia – Motortopia is community for automobile lovers. It consists of passionate lovers of bikes, planes, cars and boats etc.

MyCatSpace – MyCatSpace is a community for lovers of cats passionate to share experiences of their cats with others.

MyDogSpace – MyDogSpace users can share their dog pictures, write blog posts about dogs and communicate with other dog lovers, all in a very lovely community.

Uniteddogs – A social networking website for dog owners. The dog owners can creae profiles of their dogs, create blogs and share their thoughts.

vSocial – vSocial is a video based social networking platform allowing content owners, site operators to deliver the message online with video.

Language

15+ Language Communities

Media (Photo, Video () & Audio)

25+ Video Sharing Services

30+ Photo Sharing Services

20+ Music Sharing Services

Buzdeo – Buzdeo provides secure video sharing service with friends and family.

Fotki – A photo sharing service enabling users to connect with friends.

Fotolog – A big online photo sharing community.

Music

Asoboo – Asoboo is a sharing network for cultural artists from around the world.

BandChemistry – A network for musicians uniting music bands all over.

BandWagon – BandWagon is a music community website for music fans to manage their web pages, profiles, videos and music.

CrackSpace – A common place for fans of hip-hop music.

Moob – A dedicated community of hip-hop fans.

MOG – An online community powering site members to discover music and music lovers.

Mobile

CrackBerry – A community dedicated to BlackBerry users.

Dodgeball – A New York based service facilitating social interactions through mobile phones.

Friendstribe.com – A mobile phone based social networking site.

GotZapp – A mobile social network for sharing images, audio and graphics with your friends’ mobile phones.

Groovr – An ultimate mobile social networking site for staying connected with friends. It is compatible with iPhone.

Jaiku () – Jaiku is essentially a microblogging service with an SMS gateway, very similar to Twitter (). They’ve recently been acquired by Google.

Loopt – Loopt is a cool mobile based friend locator website. It uses GPS to show its users the location of friends by updating maps on mobile handset.

Mixxer – Mixxer enables users to content on their mobile with site members.

Mobango – A mobile community service powering users to search for user generated music content, videos and other data.

Mozes – Mozes enables members to connect & socialize with each other through mobile phones.

Partysync – Partysync helps users to interact with people using mobiles.

Peepsnation – Peepsnation allows users with similar interests to connect with each other on location basis.

Rabble – A location based social networking service for mobile phone users.

Socialight – Socialight is a mobile based social networking site where users share their travel experiences with other mobile users.

Wattpad () – A mobile phone social networking platform allowing users to discover, read and share their stories with each others.

Shopping

18 Sites for Social Shopping and Deals

3LUXE – A community generated product research site.

AgentB – A common place to find out the best shopping deals on internet.

bringsome.com – A global goods delivery platform enabling community members to assist each other with access to best items from across the world.

boxedup.com – Boxedup.com users add their favorite products to their list and share it with others.

CoWorkersAds – An online marketplace listing allowing site members to discover and sell items among coworkers community.

iliketotallyloveit.com – A user generated marketplace where users submit cool products.

MyItThings.com – A user generated magazine for shopping.

MyStore.com – A social market place for buyers and sellers.

Productwiki.com – ProductWiki is a common place for users to share information about consumer products.

RedFlagDeals.com – RedFlagDeals.com is Canada’s most popular shopping community which offers huge discounts to site users.

Sale Grab – SaleGrab is a social shopping site for best sales and discount deals.

Shoppero – Shoppero offers profit sharing to site users for writing product reviews.

Smashing Darling – A collaborative market place connecting buyers and sellers at one place.

Social BookMarking

50+ Social Bookmarking Sites

Students

AlumWire – AlumWire has been created to assist college students, alumni with professional opportunities.

B4Class – A social network for high school and college students.

Campusbug – A college student social networking website.

CampusRank – CampusRank members select and rate their old school friends and group them into various categories.

College.com – An online community for college students.

CollegeMedium.com – A student classifieds website for buying and selling items, jobs search etc.

College Tonight – A great place to meet fellow college students and alumni.

DormItem.com – A local classifieds listings for schools in various cities.

Graduates.com – A social networking site assisting graduate school students to stay in touch post completion of course.

Half.com – A leading student market place for buying and selling textbooks at discounted prices.

iHipo – An international community for college students and business professionals looking for networking opportunities.

LocalSchools – A networking site connecting students with local US colleges and universities.

Pazap.com – A student trading site for buying and selling on-campus books with other students.

Quizilla – Quizilla is a social network for young teens.

RateMyProfessor.com – RateMyProfessor connects students aspiring to study similar courses by assisting each other.

Student.com – Student.com is a big online community for college students, high school students and teens with around 1,000,000 members.

Studentbid.com – Studentbid.com is a student market place for sales and purchase of items without any fees.

StudentSN.com – A social network allowing users to create home pages with contact information, personal information and photo albums.

Uloop.com – Uloop allows students to trade textbooks, promote community events and do host of other activities.

Travel & Locals

Amicoz.com – Amicoz is slightly different from conventional social networking sites; it doesn’t have some of the common features found on socnets. It is dedicated to assist users in sharing their travel experiences, nothing more, nothing less.

Citizenbay – Citizenbay is a user community for discovering local information.

CityTherapy – CityTherapy is an easy way to find and share places of interest (restaurant, bars) in Europe.

CouchSurfing – A global travel network connecting travelers with local communities.

fatdoor.com – A fun and an interactive way to connect with the folks from your neighborhood online.

Going.com – A fun way to interact with people locally.

iloho – An online travel community with similarity to social bookmarking services like digg.

MatchActivity – A site connecting people on the basis of their activities. Users can find things to do and join people in their area.

Matador – A travel based social network with an integrated blogging service.

myTripbook.com – myTripbook.com is a place for people who want to share their travel experiences through photos, videos and blogging with others.

OurFaves – OurFaves is a community of urban savvy folks who enjoy the Toronto city and find out cool places to hang out at.

Outside.in – A nice way to explore local communities to keep track with neighborhood news.

Rummble – Rummble enables users to discover as well as share places of interest in your neighborhood.

TravBuddy – TravBuddy is a cool site for sharing travel experiences, finding new travel friends or reading travel reviews of fellow friends.

Travellerspoint – An international meeting point for worldwide travelers.

TravelTogether – A travel based social networking service enabling users to share travel plans, travel deals and experiences.

tribe.net – Tribe.net is one of the easiest ways to connect with people for finding a restaurant, a killer apartment, a gentle dentist or a hiking friend.

TripUp – A travel community site for finding travel information and planning for trips.

Triporama- Triporama provides an easy way to plan and collaborate on group trips.

VibeAgent – VibeAgent is a site about hotel reviews, travel meta-search and social networking.

WAYN – A social networking website uniting world wide travelers.

WeExplore – WeExplore provides an online platform for volunteers and travelers from all over the globe.

Wikitravel – Wikitravel is dedicated project for creating a trusted, up-to-date travel guide. It has over 16,641 travel destination guides maintained and written by Wikitravellers from around the world.

Zoodango – Zoodango is a website enabling users to connect with urban professionals either online or face-to-face at local venues.

Leaked Video: Swyping Versus iPhone Typing. (Swype For Android Is Next).

2009-11-23T12:34:00.000-08:00

A year ago, Swype launched a new way to type on a touchscreen phone at TechCrunch50. Swype was created by the inventor of the T9 predictive typing system used on most phones today because he felt that new text input methods for small touchscreens are sorely needed. Today, the startup announced the first phone to use the technology will be the Samsung Omnia II on Verizon.

As you can see in the video above, which shows a side-by-side comparison of typing on the Omnia II versus on an iPhone, the way you type with Swype is you literally swipe your finger from one letter to the next as fast as you can. In the video, the Swypist beats the iPhone typist hands down, so to speak. But the comparison is more illustrative than definitive. A practiced iPhone typer can bang out a few sentences just as fast. I tried it myself and was able to basically tie the Swype user on the video. Still, I’ll withhold judgment until I can actually try a Swype phone myself.

More phones with Swype built in will be launched next year. The Omnia II is a Windows Mobile phone. But Swype will be included in a new Android phone in the first quarter of 2010.

Will Swype give Android an edge over the iPhone?

Website:
swypeinc.com
Location: Seattle, Washington, United States
Founded: 2003

Swype creates text input technology for screens.

The patented interface enables users to create words with one continuous finger motion across an on-screen keyboard. This approach provides a faster and easier way to write.

Google Android Smashes Apple iPhone in Mashable Reader Vote

2009-11-20T12:49:00.000-08:00

We’ve been matching up popular web services, applications and mobile apps against each other in heated one-on-one battles here in our weekly Faceoff Series. Last week Microsoft Office bested Google Docs in a head to head race for the title of office suite champion.

This week we turned our attention to a rather timely battle being waged on the mobile front, between Apple’s still wildly-selling iPhone platform and Google’s slower to boil Android mobile operating system. Apparently the latter has been gaining some ground, resulting in our first unexpected upset victory in the Faceoff series.

… Google Android is the winning platform by a more than 2:1 margin. Out of 5045 total votes, Android walked away with 3323 of them or 66%, while the iPhone platform only netted 1494 or 30%. The tie vote included 228 or 5% who just couldn’t choose between them. Many people cited the openness of the platform and third-party development process as well as Android’s versatility, being able to be put to use not just on phones but also netbooks, tablet devices, eReaders and more.

Still, given the popularity of the iPhone we were a little surprised by these results. Are you? Let us know in the comments.
android-tops-iphone
Web Faceoff: Overall Results

Week 1:
- Mozilla Firefox vs. Google Chrome
- WINNER: Firefox , 4600 votes (Chrome: 3310 votes, Tie: 911 votes)

Week 2:
- Tumblr vs. Posterous
- WINNER: Tumblr, 1809 votes (Posterous: 1496 votes, Tie: 256 votes)

Week 3:
- Pandora vs. Last.fm
- WINNER: Last.fm, 1187 votes (Pandora: 1156 votes, Tie: 122 votes)

Week 4:
- Twitter vs. Facebook
- WINNER: Facebook, 2484 votes (Twitter: 2061 votes, Tie: 588 votes)

Week 5:
- WordPress vs. Typepad
- WINNER: WordPress, 2714 votes (Typepad: 267 votes, Tie: 357 votes)

Week 6:
- Windows 7 vs. Snow Leopard
- WINNER: Windows 7, 3632 votes (Snow Leopard: 3278 votes, Tie: 121 votes)

Week 7:
- TweetDeck vs. Seesmic Desktop
- WINNER: TweetDeck, 3294 votes (Seesmic Desktop: 1055 votes, Tie: 260 votes)

Week 8:
- Microsoft Office vs. Google Docs
- WINNER: Microsoft Office, 1365 votes (Google Docs: 994 votes, Tie: 315 votes)

Week 9:
- Apple iPhone vs. Google Android
- WINNER: Google Android, 3323 votes (Apple iPhone: 1494 votes, Tie: 228 votes)

20 Twitter Hashtags for Social Entrepreneurs, Nonprofits and Activists

2009-11-09T21:55:00.000-08:00

One of the best (and worst) features on Twitter is the hashtag. It allows you to find interesting topics, intellectual tweeters and real-time information. It also subjects you to multiple spammings everyday (#RIPKanye anyone?). And with the recent (okay, a couple months ago) integration of the search tool on your Twitter homepage, hashtags are easier to use than ever.

So in order to dig through the clutter and get to the worthwhile tweets, I have compiled a list of 20 hashtags you change-makers will be sure to enjoy. Follow ‘em, use ‘em, search and share ‘em.

#SocEnt: The ultimate tag for social entrepreneurship. Original founder unknown.

#SocEntChat: A Twitter conversation presented by Tom Dawkins (@AshokaTweets) and Nathaniel Whittemore (@SocialEntrprnr) that takes place on the first Wednesday of each month (also supported by me, @writerpollock).

#Nonprofit: Can’t get any more self explanatory than this! Use this tag to show those NGO good works.

#4Change: A Twitter chat and hashtag, #4Change profiles online technology, like social media, used for good.

#NPTech: Use this tag to promote and follow nonprofit technology.

#CharityTuesday: Spread the good word every Tuesday with this Twitter tag.

#MiFiMon: A Twitter chat that focuses on microfinance.

#v4change: Video for Change, simple as that.

#m4change: Just as video can be an important part to spreading awareness of a cause, so can mobile technology. This tag stands for Mobile for Change and is complemented by social entrepreneurs like The Extraordinaries.

#CSR: Use this tag for corporate social responsibility tweets.

#Environment: Use this tag for eco-friendly tweets, along with #green and #sustainable.

#Solar: Clean alternative energy! Also, use #wind, #EV (electric vehicle) and #energy, when applicable.

#SocialGood: Created by Mashable and the Summer of Social Good, this tag works for any socially conscious tweets.

#Microfinance: Like #MiFiMon, but this isn’t a chat, so use it on a daily basis.

#Philanthropy: Want to find out, or spread awareness of, someone who’s doing good? #Philanthropy it is.

#Charity: Similar to philanthropy, but charity focuses more on organizational work.

#Fundraising: Need ideas and help growing donors and funding? Check out this hashtag (and this story on using Twitter to raise funds).

#Poverty: Use this tag to call awareness to, and monitor, stories of those in need.

#ClimateChange: Concerned over the upcoming United Nations climate meeting in Copenhagen? Show your support for climate action by using and following this tag (#GlobalWarming works too).

#Health: Into helping medicinal causes? Make sure to put the #health tag on your list.

Facebook Reveals Its Next Six Months of Platform Features

2009-10-29T15:18:00.000-07:00

Facebook has just published a detailed roadmap of the features it expects to add to its Platform over the next six months, along with projected launch dates.

While the roadmap is intended largely for developers of applications – both on Facebook and on third-party sites and mobile apps using Facebook Connect – it gives users an idea of how we might interact with these apps in the future.

Some pieces that sound intriguing:

The Open Graph API will allow any page on the web to have all the features of a Facebook Page – users will be able to become a Fan of the page, it will show up on that user’s profile and in search results, and that page will be able to publish stories to the stream of its fans.

Email: Developers will be able to ask users to share their primary email addresses (for example, firstname.lastname@domain.com).

Notifications: Application-to-user and user-to-user notifications will be removed, and instead developers will use stream, Inbox, and Email.

We’re still digesting the roadmap and will update with details, but in the meantime, you can check it out for yourself on Facebook’s developer wiki.

2009 Formula DRIFT Champion Crowned

2009-10-19T11:05:00.000-07:00

Formula DRIFT 2009 Champion Crowned

Ryan Tuerck takes the event victory and Chris Forsberg wins the championship title

Long Beach, Calif. – October 17, 2009 – Formula DRIFT entered the Toyota Speedway at Irwindale for the final event of the season.

The sold out crowd was not disappointed as the drivers provided non-stop action throughout the event weekend. The event also provided plenty of additional entertainment for the fans including the Jtuned Auto Gallery, Famous Stars and Straps stunt bike demo, and a performance by the “Far East Movement.”

The final event of the season lived up to all the high expectations with the drivers putting it all on the line to win the coveted championship. 2-time Formula DRIFT champion Tanner Foust met rookie and privateer Matt Powers with his Nissan 240 in the consolation round for third place. Foust outmatched the rookie and secured his third place finish. The finals came down to and Ryan Tuerck in the Gardella Racing / Mobil 1Pontiac Solstice and Tyler McQuarrie in the Falken Tire Nissan 350Z. McQuarrie tapped the wall and spun on the 2nd run giving Tuerck the victory and 2nd place overall in the final championship standings. McQuarrie finished the season overall in 3rd place for the highest finish of his career.

Top Ten Formula DRIFT Professional Championship 2009 Point Standings
1. Forsberg, Chris	NOS Energy Drink / Maxxis Nissan 350Z	527 Points
2. Tuerck, Ryan	Gardella Racing / Mobil 1 Pontiac Solstice	521 Points
3. McQuarrie, Tyler	Falken Nissan 350Z	485 Points
4. Hubinette, Samuel	NuFormz Dodge Viper	462.25 Points
5. Gittin, Vaughn	Falken Tire Ford Racing Mustang GT	451.50 Points
6. Foust, Tanner	Rockstar / Hankook Scion Racing tC	447.50 Points
7. McNamara, Darren	Falken / Sears Auto Center Saturn Sky	426.50 Points
8. Nishida, Robbie	Hankook Tires / Dynamic Autosports Nissan 350Z	425.25 Points
9. Pawlak, Justin	Bergenholtz Racing / Nitto Mazda RX-8	416 Points
10. Gushi, Ken	RS*R Scion Racing TC	388.50 Points

Are You A New Blogger?? Where To Start...

2009-10-15T22:08:00.001-07:00

What is the best blogging platform???

When first starting a blog, choosing which blogging platform to use is one of the most important decisions that you can make as a new blogger. The right platform can make blogging a breeze, and the wrong platform can make blogging a chore.

Because the platform that you use to blog with is such a powerful part of your blogging experience, it is well worth putting in the time to find a platform that provides your ideal balance between a user-friendly interface and a flexible framework that allows you to make your blog look and feel unique. If you are planning on blogging for profit, then I would recommend getting a hosted account at someplace like godaddy.

Finding the right platform isn’t always easy, but with a little bit of contemplation and a little bit of research, you will be on your way to finding the perfect blogging platform. I am currently using Blogger, which is powered by Googgle but am in the process of moving my blog over to Wordpress, which will run on a hosted server.

If you are new to blogs and to internet technology, you might want to sacrifice the ability to create a custom background design or to integrate a unique font into your template in order to find a program that will be easy for you to use. On the other hand, if you are a veteran web designer with knowledge of html or javascript, you will probably find the limitations of a user-friendly platform to be frustrating.

Blogging Platforms

There is no such thing as a blogging platform that is objectively the best platform, because every blogger has unique needs. The blogging movement is very much about individuality, so it makes plenty of sense that there would be many different platforms available that are designed to meet the needs of different kinds of individuals undertaking different kinds of projects. This diversity is a good thing, because it means that you will almost certainly be able to find a program that suits your level of technical aptitude. However, the fact that no two bloggers need the same thing from a blogging platform can make your search for the right platform a bit tricky.

Here are some blog platforms to consider:

There is no such thing as the perfect platform for everybody, so instead of looking for the "best" platform, look for the best platform for your specific criteria.

Orange County Auto Show Packs Excitement and Entertainment

2009-10-15T14:53:00.000-07:00

Randi O'Mara and Joy Loo previewing the Exotics, Concept Cars, Alternative Fuel Vehicles, Ride & Drives, Miss Hawaiian Tropic Model Search and More

Randi O'Mari and I hit the OC Auto Show for preview media day. There were hundreds of new cars, trucks, sport/utility vehicles and crossovers that will pack the Anaheim Convention Center Thursday, October 15 through Sunday, October 18, for the 2010-Model OC Auto Show. This exciting event is more than an auto show and will offer ultra high-end exotics, concept cars, Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), Miss Hawaiian Tropic^® Model Search and more. There is something for everyone at the OC Auto Show!

We peeked the new Chevrolet Corvette Stingray concept car, recently featured in the movie Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen. The Stingray combines styling cues from current Corvettes, the 1959. Stingray racecar and the 1963 Stingray split-window coupe. We also saw a collection of dazzling exotic vehicles from Ferrari and Maserati of Newport Beach. Vehicles including the Maserati Quattroporte, GranTurismo and GranTurismo S, and the Ferrari California, F430, 599 GTB Fiorano and 612 Scaglietti.

Further down the isle, we ran into the black/gray $1.2 million Bugatti Veyron presented by The RPM Lounge^™. The RPM Lounge features a red carpet, RPM Lounge promo girls, The Millionaires Lounge, live Web feed, live radio station feed and even a chance to win an invitation to an exclusive event at the legendary Playboy Mansion.

And you can't miss the huge DUB^® Magazine Celebrity Car display. This is where attendees can check out the customized cars owned by music and sports celebrities.

Lunch w Beverly Hills Lambo & owner of Al & Eds

2009-10-09T18:32:00.000-07:00

Lunch w BH lambo & Ellie from Al & Eds almost made me late for lax flight... I did however fall in luv w this all black veyron w peanut butter interior! So money!

Take a look @ the new California gut'd @ Ellie's shop in BH... A mom brought it in for a full customization... Even to fit a baby seat and customized stroller in the trunk... So funny!

Warmest Regards,

Joy Loo
714.932.0396
http://www.JoyLoo.me

Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

FTC Released New Rules for Bloggers

2009-10-09T07:29:00.000-07:00

On Monday, The Federal Trade Commission took steps to make product information and online reviews more accurate for consumers, regulating blogging for the first time and mandating that testimonials reflect typical results.

What does this mean for all bloggers??? Means that the "FTC will require that writers on the Web clearly disclose any freebies or payments they get from companies for reviewing their products. The commission also said advertisers featuring testimonials that claim dramatic results cannot hide behind disclaimers that the results aren't typical."

The FTC also said "its commissioners voted 4-0 to approve the final guidelines, which had been expected. The guides are not binding law, but rather interpretations of law that hope to help advertisers comply with regulations. Violating the rules, which take effect Dec. 1, could result in various sanctions including a lawsuit."

For the full article see MSNBC FTC Bloggers Must Disclose Freebies on Review

MAC pre holiday release party!

2009-10-07T21:25:00.000-07:00

Was held at the Bloomingdale's @ South Coast Mall. Lots of interesting people...

Warmest Regards,

Joy Loo
714.932.0396
http://www.JoyLoo.me

Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

October is Think Pink Month!!!!

2009-10-06T11:58:00.001-07:00

October is breast cancer awareness month. So feel your boobies women... and all you fathers, brothers, husbands, boyfriends, etc. get your loved ones to get their boobies checked (or give them a hand, tell 'em you're glad to help).

I didn't get a chance to do the 40 mile breast cancer walk this year but some of my friends did it for the 2nd, 3rd, and even 4th year in a row. It was one of the most rewarding things I've ever accomplished... 40 miles within two days gives you whole lot of time to think about what it important... family, friends, and enjoying life...

I dedicate my walk to my friend Sandy Chang survived by her mother, father, and sister.

Rare, Exotic ’Super Cars’ Headline Concours d’Elegance

2009-10-05T17:54:00.000-07:00

October 4th, 2009, 4:56 pm · written by Matt Degen

Millions of dollars’ worth of world-class cars sat in an equally breathtaking setting today during the annual Concours d’Elegance at the St. Regis Resort in Dana Point.

The car show, now in its 27th year and second at the Monarch Beach location, drew an estimated 330 cars and 3,000 attendees, said Bruce Junor, president of the volunteer-run event.

“It’s just fabulous,” he said while overlooking a sea of pristine metal that in turn overlooked the Pacific. “The turnout is more than we expected.”

The nonprofit show benefited the Assessment and Treatment Services Center and the Mary and Dick Allen Diabetes Center at Hoag Hospital.

Among the highlights of the event were a 1907 Panhard & Levassor towncar, a 1915 Ford Model T Depot Hack and an ultra-rare 1941 Chrysler Thunderbolt.

In addition to the vintage vehicles, dozens of exotic “super cars” also joined this year’s event, including two Bugatti Veyrons and a Lamborghini Reventon, one of only 20 made. The Concours also saw two Southern California debuts that attracted crowds throughout the day: 2010 versions of the four-door Porsche Panamera and the $455,000 Maybach 57 Zeppelin, which sat aside a pristine 1932 model.

See the pictures I took below... enjoy and see you all next year at the Concours d'Elegance St. Regis

5th Annual Japanese Classic Car Show

2009-10-03T20:29:00.000-07:00

The 5th Japanese Classic Car Show was held on Saturday, October 3, 2009. This wasn't really an event I would normally attend but "HagertyLaura" was attending and had extra tickets for me... It was local so I ventured to the Hidden Valley Park in Irvine (by the Verizon Theater) where all rare Japanese classic vehicles were displayed - on a large, green, beautiful park.

The exhibit was open to all Japanese brand manufactured pre-1985 Toyota, Datsun/Nissan, Mazda, Honda, Mitsubishi and etc. The show started at 9AM and ended at 3PM.

I would say that they had about 400 cars and dozens of different vendors and special displays. I got there around noon just in time for lunch I thought... wrong! They food vendor ran out of food and were only serving baked potatoes and popcorn. Yuck! For more photos of the event, please visit http://joyloo.blogspot.com

VIDEO OC Lamborghini Cruise & Chat

2009-10-03T14:08:00.000-07:00

Video from Streetfire.net

OC+Lamborghini+Cruise+%26+Chat

by Matt Degen - full story

Lamborghini owners from around the country descended on Orange County this weekend for a ride and Q&A session with executives of the Italian super-car company. Event was hosted by Tom Nault and Joy Loo, SnapBuzz Media.

Owners came from as far as Chicago — many of them trailering their cars vs. driving them. Rapper Sir-Mix-a-Lot was among the attendees, and Lamborghini showed off some exceptional vehicles, including a bright yellow, 2010 Murcielago LP 670-4 SV, which packs V12 engine that makes 670 horsepower.

Another company car that got just as much attention was a Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo racer.

Most owners brought new models — primarily Murcs and Gallardos — but there was at least one Countach in the crowd, along with a Ferrari and an Aston Martin.

The half-day event began for several dozen Lamborghini owners with a drive from Crystal Cove Promenade, up through Silverado Canyon and finishing at the Fairmont Hotel in Newport Beach, where the Q&A session took place. The drive was led by professional drifter and Newport Coast resident Samuel Hubinette.

Tom Nault said he first thought up the event while visiting Lamborghini’s headquarters in Italy.

“I thought it’d be neat, and that it would be cool if this discussion could happen,” said Nault, who lives in Seattle but bought his bright-green Murc at Lamborghini OC.

One of the biggest questions on the minds of owners and enthusiasts was, “When will Orange County get another Lamborghini dealership?”(Lamborghini OC closed abruptly last year and its owner, Vik Keuylian pleaded guilty to a wire-fraud scheme.

Supercars Make Their Debut at the Concours d'Elegance St. Regis

2009-10-02T08:46:00.000-07:00

Dana Point, Calif – October 1, 2009 – The Concours d’ Elegance at the St. Regis Monarch Beach in Dana Point
(www.NBConcours.com) will feature a Supercar class this year to attract spectators who wanted to see the cars that they had dreamed of owning when they were kids – and adults. Some of the the display’s highlights are an a 1990 Ferrari F40, a 1995 Ferrari F50, a 2003 Enzo Ferrari, a Lamborghini Reventón, a Bugatti Veyron, a 1980 BMW M1, a 1984 Lamborghini Diablo SE30, a 2008 Mercedes-Benz McLaren SLR Roadster Saks Fifth Avenue Edition, and a 1965 Shelby Cobra.

Tony Salerno, who organized the Supercar display, explained “While most enthusiasts appreciate the heritage, pedigree and sheer beauty of the pre-1948 cars, the Concours d’Elegance directors wanted to also make a place for ultra-high-end exotics of the 1970’s through current day, which appeal to a slightly different demographic than the other classes.” The 27th Annual Concours d' Elegance will take place the weekend of October 3 - 4, at the prestigious St. Regis Monarch Beach in Dana Point, California. The Concours is operated as a Classic Car Club of America (CCCA) Concours, primarily showcasing automobiles produced prior to 1948, with additional sports car, and elegant touring, classes to 1975.

The Concours is a volunteer run, not-for-profit organization, with all excess proceeds supporting Assessment & Treatment Services Center (ATSC) and the Mary and Dick Allen Diabetes Center at Hoag Hospital. Southern California is the automotive culture capital of the world with a deep history in design, customization and motorsports. The Concours organizing committee aspires to create a premier celebration of the automobile event that showcases this rich heritage.

Event Schedule:

Saturday, October 3rd: 8am - Private Collection Tour
Saturday, October 3rd: Evening - Exhibitor Reception
Sunday, October 4th: 10am - 4pm - Concours at St. Regis Monarch Beach, Dana Point

Tickets are $30 in advance and $35 the day of the event. Children 12 and under have free
admission. For a complete list of all exhibitor classes, event entry forms, and ticket information please visit www.NBConcours.com.

Sentencing delayed for O.C. Lamborghini dealer

2009-09-30T10:08:00.000-07:00

September 28th, 2009, 1:54 pm · posted by Matt Degen

A sentencing for former Lamborghini dealer Vik Keuylian that was scheduled for today has been postponed until March, according to a U.S. Attorney’s Office spokesman and Keuylian’s defense attorney.

Keuylian, who owned Lamborghini dealerships in Santa Ana and Calabasas, pleaded guilty in May to a wire-fraud scheme in which he bilked $12 million from Volkswagen Credit Inc., the finance company that fronted him the money to sell the cars.

(See full press release from March detailing the case.)

“There was a stipulation filed between us and the defense filed back in July,” said Thom Mrozek, public affairs officer with the U.S. Attorney’s Office. “It just got delayed, and that’s a pretty common occurrence.”

Keuylian’s new sentencing date is March 29, 2010. He faces up to 30 years in prison, plus a $1 million fine.

Keuylian, left, of Laguna Hills, is currently free on bail. His attorney, Craig Wilke, declined to comment on what his client is currently doing, the reason for the delay, or what is happening to the defunct Lamborghini dealerships.

At an Orange County gathering of Lamborghini enthusiasts two weeks ago, Pietro Frigerio, Chief Operating Officer of Automobili Lamborghini America LLC, said the company is “doing everything possible to bring (an O.C. Lamborghini dealership) back,” but cited “interesting and challenging legal proceedings” regarding Keuylian’s case.

Also see:

Lamborghini dealer pleads guilty to fraud

On top of everything...

2009-09-28T19:25:00.001-07:00

What a day... On top of everything else that went wrong today my wifi @ home is not work'n!!! I am sitting @ the pool area work'n in front of the fire because its cold outside.

It just so happens that I desperately need to use the comp tonight to finish projects... Murphy's law and such is life! Hope the internet starts work'n soon cause the pool area closes @ 10PM.

Warmest Regards,

Joy Loo
714.932.0396
http://www.JoyLoo.me

Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

Business 2.0 / Web 2.0

2009-09-24T13:27:00.000-07:00

It's here... Tonight is the event where I'm on the panel of "experts" to talk about how web 2.0 is relating to businesses AND try'n to get more of them to use those social media tools. I know, I know, we don't have the time but yet we have time dedicated to our favorite shows, working on hobbies... Etc.

One of the many key components to a great social media campaign is to foster communication with your niche customers online. The internet is open 24/7 for fostering new business relationships. We all spend so much time networking face-to-face and disregard how valuable social media networking can be... The internet has made it a lot easier to conduct and meet interested business associates... All from the comforts of your living room... No more put'n on that suit to go shake 100's of hands only to catch a cold.

So, hopefully through my demonstration and talk tonight I can turn on some people to start using social media to help promote their business. Because we all know that the advertising and marketing world is constantly changing... Adapt or be left behind!

Warmest Regards,

Joy Loo
714.932.0396
http://www.JoyLoo.me

Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

No More Quail Lodge Resort for Pebble Beach Next Year???

2009-09-21T12:21:00.000-07:00

What the news is saying about it:

MONTEREY, CA- Hong Kong and Shanghai Hotels Ltd. said this week it will close Quail Lodge, a 97-room hotel in Carmel Valley that the
company says has been unprofitable since the dot-com bubble burst in 2000. The hotel will close in mid-November, most likely permanently,
the company said, and 199 employees will be cut loose.

The golf club, which has 300 members, likely will remain open and will service events, albeit with reduced services.

The Quail Lodge news comes less than a month after the owners of the new 130 room Homewood Suites in La Quinta decided to shut down the hotel. “We are now starting to see owners and lender's closing down hotels as it is less expensive for them to do this,” Alan Reay, president of the hotel brokerage firm Atlas Hospitality tells GlobeSt.com. “This is a trend that we expect to see a lot more of in the coming months.”

Hong Kong and Shanghai Hotels Ltd. acquired the hotel indirectly in 1997 as a wholly-owned subsidiary. Neil Galloway, the company’s chief financial officer said on a conference call that despite funding “tens of millions of dollars” in cap ex and operating losses to maintain the property as a AAA/Four Diamond property for the past decade it “has suffered a net loss every single year for the past eight years of operation…even in 2007, generally a record year for the hospitality industry.”

“The closure is expected to be permanent,” he added. “We see no realistic chance of turning around the financial fortunes of quail lodge with all future financial projections showing continued losses.”

The board of directors also issued a printed announcement in accordance with the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act, which requires that employers of more than 100 give notice 60 days in advance of mass layoffs. “With the amount of revenue that Quail Lodge can generate, as compared to its current operating costs, fixed overheads and capital expenditure requirements, the Board has come to the conclusion that it is not possible to operate Quail Lodge on a financially viable basis,” it said.

There are no plans for the sale or redevelopment of the property, either, Galloway said.
http://www.hshgroup.com/uploadedfiles/Investor_Relations/Corporate_Announcements/Announcements/pdf/E045QL.pdf

2009-09-20T01:06:00.000-07:00

From 11-99 Run

My sweet ride on Sunday for the 11-99 run!!! Click above to see more photos.

Video during the OC Lamborghini Run

2009-09-12T09:01:00.000-07:00

Video during the OC Lamborghini Run

2009-09-12T07:30:00.000-07:00

Lamborghini Traffic Jam at The Fairmont - After Run

2009-09-12T00:56:00.000-07:00

OC Bull Run

2009-09-12T00:41:00.000-07:00

From OC Lambo Run

Success!!! Worked hard to make this event happen! Look forward to more runs to come...

Lamborghini owners from around the country descended on Orange County this weekend for a ride and Q&A session with executives of the Italian super-car company.

Owners came from as far as Chicago---> click here to read more
Lamborghini returning to OC?? ----> click here to read more

Concours d'Elegance at the St. Regis

2009-08-27T15:56:00.000-07:00

Letter to our Concours Supporters

Several of our supporters have expressed concerns about the future of the Concours at the St Regis Resort, our site for the October 4^th 2009 Concours d’Elegance. The Concours volunteer team felt it important to remove any confusion and clarify the program for the 2009 event. As reported in the press, the mortgage holder Citicorp has repossessed the property. However, the property continues to be managed by Starwood, the entity that the Concours has always worked with. Since the only feasible use for the property is a luxury hotel, we do not foresee any threat to the long-term viability of our event.

Since this time in 2008, the Concours has been working with the City of Dana Point and Starwood to create a truly world-class event. That work has continued during the most recent confusing times. In fact, the City has granted us access to Sea Terrace Park, which is immediately adjacent to the golf course. This 20-acre addition has enabled the expansion in the focus of the event to include great cars from 1950’s through to the present.

The Concours has been expanded to include added cars for the judged classes. In addition, the program will include a display of approximately 30 “Super” cars, displayed in Sea Terrace Park. We have also invited local car clubs to join us in separate corrals where cars will compete for awards conducted by peer judging.

The 2009 event on October 4, promises to be an event with wider interest, more and varied displays, with the traditional, grand classic cars, some of the new, very exciting and marvelous cars of automobile engineering and arts, and a chance for club members to bring their very best cars to show to their friends and enthusiasts.

Finally in order to encourage attendance we have created a VIP ticket ($150 in advance-$175 at the gate), which includes access to the Committee Tent and brunch in the St. Regis. General admission is $30 in advance-$35 at the gate. Full information is available at nbconcours.com.

We look forward to seeing you on October 4, 2009 between 10am-4pm

Bruce Junor, President

Dick Waitneigh, Chairman

Joy Loo play'n with Mike Harrah's Toys

2009-08-11T00:14:00.001-07:00

Stopped by Robert Escalantes' Packard shop this pasy Monday and who was there?? None other than Mike Harrah himself getting ready for Pebble Beach at Monterey. He rolled up on this crazy chopper bike and said "Hey Joy, wanna ride?"

He came to watch his '29 Packard Towncar get loaded onto the truck. The '29 Towncar was a definite beauty sure to take first in it's class.

Didn't have time but I got a rain check to take a spin with Mike in his "Beast" of a car! Chrome/Stainless steel car with a Packard PT boat engine. Open, 2-seater, fire breathing race car, powered by a 12 cylinder Packard, and sits at a whopping 31 feet.

Beautiful Sunday in OC - Enderle Center Million Dollar Car Show

2009-07-27T00:41:00.000-07:00

Laura Jacobsen & Joy Loo

do you think this person is patriotic?

NO Cars and Coffee - 7-25-09

2009-07-27T00:17:00.000-07:00

Is this the way it's going to be from now on?? Please say no... Where are all the cool cars hiding on early Saturday morning. It used to be that all the rare, luxury, and exotics showed up at the Irvine Ford Motor Company. Well, the last times I've been there it's been looking pretty bleak...

Do you think he drives this often??

I think someone needs to add this to his collection.... hehhehe...

Nick Alexander's Woodie Collection

2009-07-22T11:16:00.000-07:00

Saturday, July 18th, HagertyLaura and I had the distinct pleasure of seeing for the last time Nick Alexander's Woodie collection in one place. Nick is a well known automobile dealer in LA. Also known for his Woodie restoration business and of course a major Woodie collector. Now that he's achieved his classic car goals, Nick wants to share his collection with other enthusiasts that will cherish his Woodies as he has, which is why he is putting them up for the RM Auction at Monterey this year.

The collection was housed in a huge warehouse tucked away in the industrial part of Hungtington Park. A bit out of the way from OC, but cars guys seem to sniff stuff like this out... they came from all over the place... saw so many familiar faces which was nice. One of the guys I bumped into was none other than Pieter Dwinger, head judge at the Concours d'Elegance at the St. Regis and committee member. I spent quite a bit of time with Pieter soaking up his knowledge like a sponge. He was a wealth of knowledge and knew so much about each and every car. He pointed out all the little details that he would look for when judging such beauties.

Seems like I run into Dave Lindsay Mr. "SoCalCarCulture.com" every where... he tries to keep a low profile at events but seems to get pulled into different conversations. I know because I get talking to him for hours and he doesn't get to do what he came to do... which is take pictures. Thanks Dave! We love what you do for the car enthusiasts!

For more pictures view: My Picture Photo Album

Updated Project List

2009-07-16T20:05:00.000-07:00

Updated "current projects"... come check out the new things I'm working on... www.joyloo.me

Interesting Statistics on Social Media Marketing

2009-06-30T09:12:00.000-07:00

Author and WebProNews Blog Partner Michael Stelzner, has put together an interesting report based on a survey of 900 marketers. The report looks at the state of social media marketing. Interesting stats from the report include:

- 88% indicated they were employing social media for marketing purposes

- 72% have only been using social media marketing for a few months

- 64% of marketers are using social media for 5 hours or more each week

- 39% are using it for 10 hours a week

- 81% say the number-one benefit is generating exposure, followed by increasing traffic and building new business relationships

- Over half saw a rise in search engine rankings

Marketers and business owners still have a lot of questions about social media marketing. The report looks at the top ten questions they have:

1. What are the best tactics to use?

2. How do I measure the effectiveness of social media?

3. Where do I start?

4. How do I manage the social balance?

5. What are the best sites and tools out there?

6. How do I make the most of my available time?

7. How do I find and focus my efforts on my target audience?

8. How do I convert my social media marketing efforts into tangible results?

9. How do I cohesively tie different social media efforts together?

10. Does social media marketing work, and if so, how effective is it?

The medium is still in its youth, yet continues to evolve rapidly. Some questions don't have any concrete answers, and are perhaps best answered by the marketers/business owners themselves. Not every business is going to find success through social media marketing in the same manner. That's one of the greatest appeals of the medium though. There are so many possibilities.

You can see Stelzner's full report as well as a video narrated by Stelzner himself here.

Love At First Sight....

2009-06-22T23:28:00.000-07:00

1967 Shelby GT500 Re-Creation

Only has 1,100 miles, Roush 427 IR crate engine (generating 552 horsepower and 535 lb.-ft. torque), pepper gray interior/exterior color, sport seats, power windows, and is only $135k... I'll add this to my Christmas list... I promise to be a good little girl!!!

Not for the faint of hearts.... An Original 1967 Shelby GT500
A Whopping $450K

Automotive Pilot Taping for Speed Channel

2009-06-16T22:20:00.000-07:00

Kathy Marino and Joy Loo's adventure at an
automotive pilot taping for the Speed Channel

Joy Loo says "now that's
what you call a Woodie"

Damsel in distress...

Knowing how to handle a
gas pump can be very tricky...

Hang'n with the boy's from Cars and Coffee

Hitting the Right Crowd.

2009-06-11T16:38:00.000-07:00

Wines, Wheels, and Wishes

2009-06-08T11:24:00.000-07:00

Saturday, June 13th, from 1 - 4pm I'll be attending the 1st annual car enthusiasts vintage experience. Presented by Art Salazar of the Slogo Entertainment Group. He has selectively invited wine lovers and car enthusiasts to gather at the Newport Harbor Drivers Club, 729 Farad St., Costa Mesa, 92627.

The event benefits the Share Our Wine Foundation. Activities are from 1pm - 4pm. Car enthusiasts will the opportunity to enjoy wine tasting blindly. Paired hors d'oeuvres will be served next to classic automobiles and modern supercars making the tasting competition more exciting to the taste buds. A silent auction, prizes and raffles. Attendance is invite only and limited to 150 specially invited wine lovers and car enthusiasts. See you there!

Family Classic Cars - Grand Opening Showroom for World Class Motoring

2009-06-05T22:38:00.000-07:00

Friday, June 5th, Family Classic Cars unveiled the new showroom for World Class Motoring. The new store front is an addition to their Agoura Hills location. World Class Motoring specializes in fine automotive gifts and accessories.

Artwork displayed along the top is work from Peter Aylett, Car Art, Inc. Auto Aficionado says "Perhaps the best automotive art gallery in existence."

Check out the cool racing simulator at the new location.
Gotta try this! So much fun!

Sunday Driver

2009-06-05T15:08:00.000-07:00

1953 300S Roadster... Maybe someday... Don't have $475k laying around!

Warmest Regards,

Joy Loo
714.932.0396
http://www.JoyLoo.me

Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

Salish Lodge After Party...

2009-05-31T01:36:00.000-07:00

Good times had by all... even Mathilda the dog! For more photos see my photo diary.

Brought the Sunshine From OC with Me

2009-05-30T22:38:00.000-07:00

Where am I? Woke up Kirkland, WA with the sun shining bright and the temp at about late-70's. Not a cloud in the sky! Dragged my ass out of one of the most comfortable beds I've ever slept in around 7:30ish. Went for a run on the treadmill for half and hour... got in the shower, got dressed and went downstairs to greet my hosts! Tiff made me the worlds most expensive cappuccino!!! =)

Had a small bite to eat then Tom and I were off to downtown Seattle. Walked around the farmers market (saw the famous fish throwing place), did some shopping, walked the downtown area, and then we went down by the bay area. Met up with Tiff and Kim (Tom's assistants) to have lunch... yum yum Mexican food. From there, the girls and I went to run errands before my big night out with the boys and sushi. Made it an early night as we all had to be up at the crack of dawn... 4:30 am to be exact.

Saturday is finally here... after a month of planning Tom and his team can see the fruits of their labor. I had the best time there.... and felt very lucky to have been invited to the whole thing. The breakfast was with Stephan Winkelman, CEO, Manfried Fitzgerald, Director of Branding and Design, Dominik Hoberg, Director of Communications, Maurizio Reggiani, Director of R&D, and Pietro Frigerio, US President and COO.

A ton of exotics filled the center court of Redmond Town Center early Saturday, May 30th morning. At 10 AM there was a caravan with four (4) police escorts and 40 exotics including the new Murcielago LP-670 SV and Gallardo LP-560 Roadster. From Redmond Town Center the police risked their lives zipping and zooming to get in front of the exotics pulling cars over so that all the exotics could stay together. The cars caravanned to Salish Lodge at Snoqualmie Falls. As if the cars weren't breathtaking enough, the backdrop had amazingly beautiful waterfalls.

After walking around the grounds and seeing all the cars everyone retired into Salish Lodge to have breakfast served buffet style. Meaning you didn't pay to attend and get just bagels, juice and toast. You served up a plate filled to brim if your heart desires.

The format was very casual.... starting out with Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO talking about the history, current, and future of Lamborghini. After that, Stephan Winkelmann, Manfred Fitzgerald, and Maurizio Reggiani were put on the "HOT" seat. Q&A was open to all!!! And if I might say so... they handled all questions honestly and straight forward. There were definitely some interesting questions coming from the Ferrari table. But all in all, the entire management team did a great job connecting with not only the Lamborghini customers but ALL exotic car enthusiasts as well.

Immediately following the grilling and hot seat questions was a wrap-up where they all stayed to personally greet and take photos will anyone that wanted to... If anyone missed this event not to fear. Tom will be bringing this event to OC soon.

Heading to Seattle Washington

2009-05-28T18:31:00.000-07:00

Flight left OC, SNA at 12pm. I was totally running really late because I last minute packed the morning of… good thing I live 10 mins away from the airport. I got to the gate just as they were boarding the plane. Yes, I was the last to board. Thinking the entire time… please don’t leave without me… good thing for degree deodorant cause it turns up the heat when you need it most! When we were about to land I looked out the window and saw this gorgeous image. Oooh, Mt. Saint Helen...

Yippy, got my luggage and off to cause some trouble in Seattle. Called Tom to let him know which door I was coming out of…. I was excited to see him… I hadn’t seen Tom since the last Lamborghini OC event last year. As we left the airport we headed straight over to Lamborghini of Bellevue. He was excited to see the three cars that were going to be on display. The star of the show, LP 670 SV was not there… someone forgot to have it transported from LA to WA.. uh oh… but not to fear Tom saved the day! Had someone pull an all nighter transporting that sucker by Friday afternoon. It was a great 1st day in Bellevue, WA. Cruised around in the Lambo, went to dinner at one of Tom's fav restaurant and had is fav pasta dish there... so sinful, sauce was made from blue cheese and port wine. Forgot what it was called. Then we finished the evening with a cruise in the H2 all around Seattle. Got to see Seattle's space needle... boy what a clear night it was..

What Did People Do Before Technology?!?

2009-05-21T23:17:00.000-07:00

Finally had a breakthrough... was in a bit of a squeeze tonight! I was having trouble sending emails from my blackberry. What is a girl to do?? And on top of that, every email I was sending from my Gmail account was duplicating in my Inbox... both on my cell phone and desktop. So weird how our computer friends can be so fickle. Working perfect one second and giving us a headache the next... hmm, kinda like men. hahha!

Google to the rescue! You can literally google any question and guarantee someone somewhere around the world has asked it in google at least 100 times. So I googled my question and sure enough it was in forums all over the place... using a little bit of computer common sense and new knowledge, I solved the issue.

To solve the duplicate email sent to me in my Inbox after I emailed someone, I had to set a filter through my T-mobile provider and then I had to do something with my Gmail POP/IMAP thing. And to send emails from my blackberry I had to reset the default to my Gmail address.

Don't really know how it all got messed up because one day it was working fine and the next day it was screwy.

Warmest Regards,

Joy Loo
714.932.0396
http://www.JoyLoo.me

Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

Just Another Saturday @ Cars and Coffee

2009-05-19T21:44:00.000-07:00

It's been so long since my last visit to Cars and Coffee. Well, I must say, it was bitter sweet. It was great seeing all the old faces and beautiful cars but a little heart breaking to not be promoting Velocity there.

On May 16th, Laura and I went to Cars and Coffee to rekindle ourselves with the passionate OC car world. It's so funny how we both had different agendas... Laura was going to promote Hagerty, bringing awareness to the OC car enthusiasts. Since Velocity, she has landed a sweet gig. She attends all the car shows, meets and greets all that attend, and lets them know about Hagerty. And I went to Cars and Coffee to promote the Concours d'Elegance held at the St. Regis.

It turned out to be a great Saturday. We ran into so many old faces and was quickly reminded on how much we were loved!!!! One of the early morning patrons was Samuel Hubinette, aka "The Crazy Swede", a professional race car driver and Hollywood stunt driver. We stopped and chatted about how well his new Performance Driving Academy was doing. I think I might take him up on his offer to get behind the wheel and feel the hunk of metal pushed to the limits. Next classes are set for June 13th and 14th...

Every week there is a theme... as you can see it was Porsche weekend.

Tesla Worth More Than Half A Billion Dollars After Daimler Investment

2009-05-18T01:14:00.000-07:00

From techcrunch on May 19, 2009

10% stake in Tesla that was announced today for $50 million, says a source with knowledge of the deal. They’ve actually taken 9% (they announced “nearly 10 percent” and the post money valuation is $550 million. Our source also says that Tesla’s application for $350 million in federal loans has been informally approved and will also be announced shortly.

That’s not too shabby for a company that was down to just $9 million in cash late last year. The company has also recently said that 1,000 preorders for the new Model S sedan have been received. Over 500 were reserved in the first week after it was unveiled.

65 Indispensable Websites for Business Owners

2009-05-12T15:01:00.000-07:00

Get your business going, keep it going strong or take it in a new direction with this compilation of web sites for entrepreneurs.

Accounting Terminology Guide
http://nysscpa.org/prof_library/guide.htm
If you need to know what a specific accounting term means, no matter how obscure, this is the site for you. Hosted and maintained by the New York State Society of CPAs, nearly 500 accounting terms are defined on this site, all sorted in an easy-to-use alphabetical list.

Adweek Online
www.adweek.com
This is the online edition of Adweek, a popular print magazine focusing on all things advertising and marketing. This site features the inside scoop on what's going on in the marketing departments of high-profile companies and corporations.

American Association of Franchisees and Dealers
www.aafd.org
This organization represents the rights of both franchisees and dealers. Here you can learn about upcoming events, read some free publications online, order other publications from the bookstore, and become a member.

Backpack
www.backpackit.com
Backpack is a web-based service that makes organizing your company's information easy. Backpack lets you make pages that can contain any combination of notes, to-dos, images, files and so on.

Better Business Bureau
http://us.bbb.org
Browse or search for a business or charity's reputation. Included are instructions for how to file a consumer or B2B complaint.

BizBuySell
www.bizbuysell.com
Looking to buy a franchise? There's a good chance you'll find one here. From restaurants in California to auto shops in Florida, you can search more than 25,000 businesses currently for sale, many of which are franchised.

Bizwomen
www.bizwomen.com
Bizwomen is an online community for women business executives and entrepreneurs to connect, support one another, learn and grow. You can share and explore ideas with women across the United States or in your neighborhood to help grow your business.

Business Owner's Tool Kit
www.toolkit.com
With an emphasis on problem solving, this site features more than 5,000 pages of free cost-cutting tips, step-by-step checklists, real-life case studies, startup advice, and business templates to small-business owners and entrepreneurs.

Business Owners Idea Cafe
www.businessownersideacafe.com
Managed by successful entrepreneurs and the authors of several guides on forming and running a business, this site includes numerous award-winning resources, along with practical advice, business news and humor.

BrandChannel.com
www.brandchannel.com
Run by internationally acclaimed brand consultancy Interbrand, BrandChannel.com provides a global perspective on brands and the art of branding. Site features include in-depth feature articles, conference announcements, career resources and access to white papers.

Brandweek
www.brandweek.com
A leading source of news and information for the branding industry, it's also the only online trade magazine to offer saturation coverage at all levels of the brand-activation process.

Catalyst
www.catalystwomen.org
Catalyst is a leading corporate research and advisory organization that works with businesses to build inclusive environments and expand professional opportunities for women.

Chief Marketer
www.chiefmarketer.com
A content-rich website, Chief Marketer provides marketing executives with insights into key marketing issues, innovations and practical solutions.

CPAdirectory
www.cpadirectory.com
When April rolls around and you find yourself scrambling to find a CPA, this site will help. Billed as “the largest online database of Certified Public Accountants,” here you can search for CPAs by ZIP code, name, industry or area of specialty.

Customer Service Group
www.customerservicegroup.com
New Jersey-based Alexander Communications Group (ACG) uses this site to provide practical information free of charge to customer service professionals. If you work in the customer service industry, be sure to sign up for Service Starters, ACG's free customer service industry eNewsletter.

Customer Service Manager
www.customerservicemanager.com
If you work in customer service, this website is for you. Here you will find an active community of customer service professionals, along with daily news, reviews, articles and resources aimed at improving customer service.

Customer Service Zone
www.customerservicezone.com
Customer service expert Robert Bacal's website for customer service professionals, The Zone offers information to help businesses of all sizes and their employees provide efficient and effective customer service.

Direct Marketing Association
www.the-dma.org
The Direct Marketing Association is the largest trade association for businesses that are interested and involved in direct, database and interactive global marketing. Here you can learn more about the DMA, become a member and access its services.

Electronic Frontier Foundation: Intellectual Property
www.eff.org/issues/intellectual-property
EFF works to preserve balance and ensure that the internet and digital technologies empower consumers, creators, innovators, scholars, and average citizens. This section of the EFF website spotlights current challenges and solutions facing the intellectual property rights of everyone.

Entrepreneur.com / WomenEntrepreneur.com
www.entrepreneur.com/ womenentrepreneur.com
Published by the same people who bring you Entrepreneur magazine, this is an excellent site for entrepreneurs, featuring a solid collection of articles and tips from experts, plus hundreds of links to other entrepreneurial resources on the web. WomenEntrepreneur.com offers additional articles, blogs and resources specific to women for starting and growing their businesses.

Entrepreneur Connect
econnect.entrepreneur.com
Entrepreneur's social networking site is a gathering place for thousands of business owners. Take part in discussions, join like-minded business owners in groups, and give and receive valuable advice from the trenches.

Entrepreneur.com's Trade Publication Directory
www.entrepreneur.com/tradepublication/category/index.html
Don't miss one of the internet's largest searchable databases of trade publications. From agriculture and biotech to purchasing and procurement, Entrepreneur.com has your industry's trade publication listed here.

Fambiz.com
www.fambiz.com
Fambiz.com is the internet's leading website for owners and employees of family controlled companies. Managed by Northeastern University's Center for Family Business, here you will find insight on every family run business topic imaginable.

Federal Trade Commission: Franchise and Business Opportunities
www.ftc.gov/bcp/franchise/netfran.htm
This site has lots of information, including an FAQ section, Guide to the FTC Franchise Rule, consumer alerts, Before You Buy pamphlets, and state disclosure requirements.

Franchise.com
www.franchise.com
Learn more about available franchise opportunities or advertise your franchise to potential buyers at this site, which aims to connect franchise buyers and sellers, as well as anyone thinking of starting one.

Franchise Expo
www.franchiseexpo.com
If you're thinking about buying a franchise, do your research here; you'll find detailed information on nearly every franchising opportunity known to man.

Franchise Zone by Entrepreneur.com
http://www.entrepreneur.com/franchises
Dedicated to linking enthusiastic entrepreneurs with the top franchises, this site provides all the information you need to find the best franchises and become a successful franchisee. How-to articles, advice from experts and lists of the top franchises in various categories make this the first site to turn to for those considering the purchase of a franchise.

FreshBooks
www.freshbooks.com
FreshBooks is an online invoicing and time-tracking service that helps businesses of all sizes save time, get paid faster and look professional.

Fundability
www.fundability.com
Fundability is a marketplace where entrepreneurs and investors can find funding success. Founded by entrepreneurs and investors, Fundability's Company SnapShot, Deal Search Engine, and DiligenceRoom provide intelligent online tools for the savvy entrepreneur.

Glide
www.glidedigital.com
Glide is a complete mobile desktop providing a secure and scalable platform for personal and collaborative computing.

Google Checkout
www.googlecheckout.com
This online payment system works alone or as an alternative to systems already in place. Customers don't have to share credit card information with merchants that use the system, and identity protection is increased.

Google Docs
www.google.com/docs
The folks at Google deliver a free web-based word processor and spreadsheet, which allow you to share and collaborate online. Google Docs accepts most popular file formats, including DOC, XLS, ODT, ODS, RTF, CSV, PPT, and more.

Hoover's
www.hoovers.com
Hoover's gives you access to up-to-date information about industries, companies and key decision makers. Great for professionals working in sales, marketing, business development, and others who need intelligence on U.S. and global companies, industries, and the people who lead them.

Idea Locker
www.bkfk.com
One of the best invention/patent sites on the Web for novice innovators of all ages, this site is specifically designed for kids. It provides information on how to invent, famous inventors and discoveries.

Internal Revenue Service
www.irs.gov
Business owners can get all of their federal and business tax information--not to mention forms--directly from the source. It's also a good place to stay current on tax laws that affect business owners.

Jobfox
www.jobfox.com
Started by the former CEO of CareerBuilder.com, Jobfox walks you through creating a skills inventory and then tells you which employers are looking for people with those exact skills. The Jobfox site also provides a free trackable resume and career web page to showcase your skills, experience and work samples.

Kauffman Foundation
www.kauffman.org
The Kauffman Foundation delivers an up-to-date and relevant website dedicated to furthering our understanding of the phenomenon of entrepreneurship and to advancing entrepreneurship education and training. Check out the Resource Center for getting started information on business operations, sales and marketing, human resources, finance and accounting, and the like.

LinkedIn Jobs
www.linkedin.com/jobs
Whether you're looking for a new job or trying to help someone else find the perfect job, LinkedIn can help you find and get in touch with the people you need to contact. Create a profile and click the Jobs tab to get started.

Microsoft Small Business Center
www.microsoft.com/smallbusiness
A vehicle for selling various Microsoft small-business products, this site also provides plenty of excellent information and advice entirely for free. If you're starting or running your own small business, Microsoft's Small Business Center is an excellent place to learn from the experts.

Mint
www.mint.com
Entrepreneurs can get help with the personal finances, money management and budget planning. In addition, Mint offers free financial planning software.

National Association for the Self-Employed
www.nase.org
The NASE provides its self-employed members with support, education and training. The organization conducts surveys relevant to the needs of the self-employed and posts articles business owners can use.

National Association of Women Business Owners
www.nawbo.org
NAWBO is a fierce advocate for women business owners, providing resources and support. It can help women get access to government contracts that most business owners don't know about.

PayPal
www.paypal.com
Perhaps the best-known payment system, PayPal allows web sites to receive and send money electronically. Business owners and customers find PayPal easy to use--and secure.

Salesforce.com
www.salesforce.com
Easy-to-use web-based customer relation management tools for your entire company, including online solutions for sales, service, marketing, and call center operations.

Small Business Administration
www.sba.gov
Here you can learn how to start your own business and finance it. The site also provides information on business opportunities, local SBA offices, laws and regulations, and much more.

Survey of Current Business
www.bea.gov/scb
The monthly Survey of Current Business is the definitive source of information by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis about its economic accounts. Monthly updates present the latest national, international, regional, and industry estimates, and keep business leaders up to date on relevant BEA issues and initiatives.

Survey Monkey
www.surveymonkey.com
Put your finger on the pulse of your customers with this free basic service. Create and publish custom online surveys to gather data you can use.

TradePub.com
www.tradepub.com
If you're looking for a trade publication, you're likely to find it here. This site features an extensive list of free business, computer, and engineering trade newsletters and magazines, all of which you can subscribe to for free.

U.S. Chamber of Commerce
www.uschamber.com
Find your local branch, figure out how to start, learn about new taxes and much more at the national Chamber of Commerce site.

U.S. Copyright Office
www.copyright.gov
Find all of the forms, publications and information you need to copyright your original work.

U.S. Department of Labor: Office of Small Business Programs
www.dol.gov/osbp
The OSBP promotes opportunities for small businesses, especially disadvantaged businesses, women-owned businesses, HUBZone businesses and businesses owned by disabled veterans.

U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
www.uspto.gov
Official site for searching the U.S. patent database. Includes international treaties, statutes and patent news.

VentureDeal
www.venturedeal.com
Easy-to-use database with the latest information on U.S.-based venture-backed technology companies, senior management, company financings, and M&A transactions. Updated daily, this site offers a convenient way of accessing critical information related to business development, funding searches and venture capital investment goals.

VisualCV
www.visualcv.com
VisualCV reinvents your resume using technologies that transform the way in which resume data is presented, accessed and shared. VisualCV allows you to easily build and manage online career portfolios that come alive with informational keyword pop-ups, video, pictures and professional networking.

Wesabe
www.wesabe.com
The site offers financial advice, analysis and planning for business owners.

Word of Mouth Marketing Association
www.womma.org
Official website of WOMMA, where you can find the latest thinking on a variety of Web 2.0 marketing strategies, including word of mouth marketing.

Work.com
www.work.com
The small-business owner's manual on where to go, what to know, and how to get the most value from the ever-growing array of web resources for business. The site features more than 2,000 how-to guides written by business experts and organized by common business tasks and challenges.

Women's Work
www.wwork.com
Women's Work is dedicated to helping women move from standard 9-to-5 jobs to flex careers--telecommuting, small business and other options. This site is packed with articles, advice, how-to guides, flexible career choices, and success stories to inspire and motivate.

Wufoo
www.wufoo.com
Wufoo is a web-based application that removes inefficiency and tediousness from the form-building process. Wufoo reduces what used to take trained professionals days (if not weeks) into something that can be done by anyone in minutes.

Yelp
www.yelp.com
Yelp provides a fun and engaging website for “passionate and opinionated influencers to share the experiences they've had with local businesses and services.” Watch out because “yelping” can be quite addictive.

Zimdesk
www.zimdesk.com
Zimdesk provides all the features and functionality you would expect from a standard desktop PC. The difference is that Zimdesk runs from an internet browser, allowing you to access all your applications, files, games and accessories from any computer.

Zoho
www.zoho.com
Zoho offers a suite of office productivity tools online, including a word processor, spreadsheet program, invoicing tool, presentation creator, web-conferencing functions and calendar organizers.

How to Advertise Now - Recession Advertising - Entrepreneur.com

2009-04-11T14:46:00.001-07:00

How to Advertise Now - Recession Advertising - Entrepreneur.com

When money's tight, the knee-jerk reaction for many entrepreneurs is to cut back on advertising. Unfortunately, the businesses that stop advertising simply drop out of sight, taking these entrepreneurs from slow sales to no sales--fast. It's a risky move many may not recover from. Rather than eliminate your advertising in a recession, cut the fat from your campaign, and focus on the right media choices for the highest ROI.

To figure out what to cut and what to keep, use this checklist to choose the right media for your business in this challenging economy.

1. Advertise where prospects look first.
Where will your customers look when they've decided to buy what you sell? A vast majority of Americans research purchases on the internet before buying online or in a brick-and-mortar store. Placing advertising on search engines may be an important part of your scaled down campaign. Other search media include trade and industrial directories, both online and in print, newspaper circulars, classified ads, and shopper sections of specialty magazines. By advertising where prospective customers look, you'll shorten your sales cycle and lower your cost per sale.

2. Use media that touch prospects often.
Even when your customers aren't in search mode, they still interact with other important media. Discover which media touch your best prospects throughout the day. Do they read a particular newspaper? Which TV and radio programs do they enjoy and at what times of the day? If you're targeting B2B prospects, zero in on the industry publications they rely on for information. Both business and consumer prospects have favorite websites they frequent. Armed with this vital information, you can strategically place ads in media you know play central roles in their daily lives.

3. Put your ads in context.
Not all media that touch your prospects will be smart advertising choices. The issue of appropriate context is critical when making this evaluation. Choose media that reach your prospects when they're in the right frame of mind to be receptive to your message. For example, your best prospects may dine out frequently and be exposed to the ads inside the restroom stalls of popular restaurants. But the location of this media may be an inappropriate context for advertising your type of business. It all depends on when and how you want your customers to think of your business. Pare down your campaign to the media that put your message in the right context, and your response rates will climb.

4. Advertise for maximum memorability.
The very best use of limited advertising dollars is to spend your money where your campaign can be a standout. That requires sufficient ad size and frequency. With the abundance of clutter in all major media, it can be challenging to stand out with small-size, fractional-page ads. Larger ads will give you more bang for your buck because they're more likely to be seen and remembered. Rather than run small-space ads in many publications or websites, reduce your media choices to those in which you can afford to buy larger ads and advertise frequently. Narrow your broadcast selections to fewer radio stations or TV programs, and advertise to your core audience with frequency so your message is sure to penetrate. By the time the marketplace rebounds, you'll be in a solid position to expand your campaign once again.

by: Kim T. Gordon

Viral Marketing & Advertising Strategies for Social Networks

2009-03-31T00:53:00.001-07:00

Check out this SlideShare Presentation:

Viral Marketing & Advertising Strategies for Social Networks

View more presentations from barenblat.

Here's what Orange County businesses are saying about Joy Loo:

2009-03-09T14:20:00.000-07:00

“I have enjoyed working with Joy very much. She is extremely professional yet allows for a kind and gracious demeanor. Joy is diligent in her work, and has a wonderful attention to detail. Joy has an innate ability to anticipate ones needs and therefore exceed expectations. I highly recommend Joy and congratulate any organization that selects her to become a team member. I look forward to being able to collaborate with Joy on future business endeavors.”

Best,

Stuart Winston
Vice President Marketing & Development
Lugano Diamonds
---------------------------------------------------------------

“I’ve known Joy Loo in her capacity with Velocity Magazine in Orange County for the past two years. She really is true to her name…Joy has been a complete pleasure to work with, efficient, knowledgeable, enthusiastic about her work and the industry, and unfailingly professional in her dealings with our company. If you are looking for someone who always goes the extra mile, Joy Loo is the perfect choice. We were sorry to see the demise of Velocity magazine. I would enthusiastically recommend Joy for any position that calls for excellence and commitment. “

Jerra Morris, Owner
Spring Mountain Motorsports Ranch
---------------------------------------------------------------

“Joy has a natural ability to transcend the social norm and build solid relations, and in PR, the mileage behind that is exponential. She has been an absolute pleasure to work with on several launch events and her unwavering support has made a rock solid impact, particularly at the Inaugural Mercedes-Benz Taste of Laguna Niguel launch, Concours Motorcars Ipanema Exotic Car Event, and Genesis Audio Little Black Book event. She is genuine, hard-working, and net-wise technically savvy. Joy Loo - "Rockstar" in my book, and a gem large.”

Kathryn Marino
Event Producer
CDJV
---------------------------------------------------------------

“I have had the pleasure of working with Joy throughout the past several years on industry related projects. Joy makes a great impression on people with her outgoing personality and her ability to network with a variety of diverse people. Joy seems to build lasting relationships with people quickly and has the knack for PR and marketing.”

Linda Leonhard
President
CORONA DEL MAR CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
A Strategic Business & Community Resource

Interesting Marketing and Advertising Statistics

2009-02-28T18:09:00.001-08:00

79% of marketers are unfamiliar with the phrase web 2.0.
--Zoomerang, November 2006

Internet advertising revenues jumped 33% in the third quarter of 2006 compared to 2005; totaling $4 billion. --Interactive Advertising Bureau/PricewaterhouseCoopers, November 2006

Telephone and e-mail produce the highest response rate at 2.60% and 2.45% for direct marketing media channels for generating leads.
--Direct Marketing Association, November 2006

Viral video marketing campaigns increase clickthrough rates by 750%.
--MarketingExperiments.com, November 2006

Viral marketing campaigns produce 750% more clickthroughs than traditional banner ads.
--MarketingExperiments.com, November 2006

The average 1970s city dweller was exposed to 500 to 2,000 ad messages a day; today it's up to 3,000 to 5,000.
--Yankelovich, October 2006

Companies are expected to spend $26 billion on internet classifieds by 2011.
--JupiterResearch, October 2006

Roughly 71% of computers use pop-up ad blockers.
--Arbitron/Edison Media, October 2006

It's estimated that click fraud wastes $1.3 billion.
--Outsell Inc., October 2006

27% of advertisers have slowed or stopped their pay-per-click advertising.
--Outsell Inc., October 2006

On average, advertisers estimate that 14.6% of the clicks they're for billed are fraudulent.
--Outsell Inc., October 2006

Only 7% of mobile users in the US respond to SMS-based marketing.
--M:Metrics, October 2006

57% of retailers have opt-in lists of fewer than 50,000 names.
--WebSurveyor Corp, October 2006

63.8% of retailers conduct up to three e-mail campaigns per month.
--WebSurveyor Corp, October 2006

E-mail marketing consultants consider an open rate of about 20% and a click-through rate of 4% to 5% to be a highly effective e-mail campaign.
--WebSurveyor Corp, October 2006

41.6% of retailers spend less than 1% of their total annual marketing budget on e-mail.
--WebSurveyor Corp, October 2006

Total advertiser spending on mobile messaging and display ads will grow from $1.4 billion in 2006 to $2.9 billion in 2011.
--JupiterResearch, October 2006

Direct marketing spending is expected to reach $175.2 billion in 2007; up 5.2% from 2006.
--The Direct Marketing Association, October 2006

It's expected that advertiser spending for online video will grow 71% this year.
--eMarketer, September 2006

By 2010, online video ad spending is expected to garner 8% of the $29.4 billion spent on online advertising.
--eMarketer, September 2006

The use of local search jumped 20% in 2006 from the same time the previous year.
--comScore Networks, August 2006

Large, diversified food companies are expected to spend $27.2 billion on advertising in 2007; up 5.5% from last year.
--Schonfeld & Associates, Inc., July 2006

US local online advertising spending was $1.6 billion in 2006; it's estimated to reach $2.8 billion by 2008.
--eMarketer, June 2006

Only 46% of small businesses use Google AdWords, versus 66% of large companies.
--Outsell, Inc., May 2006

24% of businesses that have been in operation 10 years or less use e-mail marketing; only 12% of older businesses do so.
--Kelsey Group, May 2006

66% of businesses that have been in operation 10 years or less use their company website for marketing; 51% of older businesses do so.
--Kelsey Group, May 2006

47% of small business owners use the internet to market or advertise their business.
--Open from American Express, May 2006

58% of adult internet users receive marketing e-mail that is appropriately targeted toward them in 2006; an increase from 53% in 2005.
--GfK NOP, March 2006

Nearly 1 in 5 consumers say they use their work e-mail address to receive personal marketing offers.
--Epsilon Interactive, March 2006

43% of cell phone users say they would be willing to pay more for a cell phone that prohibits marketing or advertising messages.
--Royal Bank of Canada's RBC Capital Markets, March 2006

11% of search engine marketing is spent on search engine optimization; 83% is spent on pay-per-click advertising.
--SEMPO, February 2006

The online channel is used by 80% of advertisers; and 90% adoption is expected by 2008.
--Outsell, Inc., February 2006

Total online marketing spending will grow 19% in 2006.
--Outsell, Inc., February 2006

Spending on search engine advertising will grow 26% in 2006.
--Outsell, Inc., February 2006

76.1% of consumers say they can remember the brand name of a promotional item they've received within the past yea.
--MarketingSherpa, February 2006

North American advertisers spent $5.75 billion on search engine marketing in 2005, a 44% increase compared to 2004.
--Search Engine Marketing Professional Organization, January 2006

Search engine marketing spending is projected to reach $11 billion in 2010.
--Search Engine Marketing Professional Organization, January 2006

88% of moms do no want companies marketing unhealthy foods to their kids.
--BSM Media, January 2006

75% of consumers planned to purchase at least one gift card in 2005.
--National Retail Federation, December 2005

31% of small business say their biggest barrier to marketing online is the cost of buying ads; 18% don't know enough about how to do it.
--Affinity Internet, November 2005

During the 2004-05 TV season, more than 100,000 product placements appeared on the six broadcast networks--a 28% increase from the previous season.
--Nielsen Media Research, October 2005

In 2004, the value of TV product placements rose 46.4% to $1.88 billion.
--PQ Media, October 2005

U.S. consumers primary source of coupons: 58.4% newspapers/magazines, 26.9% circulars/inserts, 5.7% websites, 4.4% e-mail offers/newsletter, 4.2% direct mail, 0.4% online banner ads.
--Prospevtiv/ClickZ, October 2005

U.S. spending on online local advertising will grow 26% to $3.2 billion in 2005 and is expected to reach $5.3 billion by 2010.
--Jupiter Research, September 2005

Small businesses were asked how much of their overall marketing they estimate is currently conducted online--including sales, e-commerce, leads generated through their website, and e-mail contact with customers: 75-100% of marketing efforts? 22%; 50-75% of marketing efforts? 17%; 25-50% of marketing efforts? 17%; 10-25% of marketing efforts? 21%; and less than 10%? 23%
--Affinity Internet, October 2005

Most consumers say they prefer to receive information about advertisements or promotions via snail mail. How would thye prefer marketers communicate? 51% say mail, 19% say bill inserts, 17% request no communication, 5% say e-mail, and 1% say telephone.
--Cable & Telecommunications Association for Marketing, September 2005

52% of consumers would be much more or somewhat more likely to purchase a product seen in a commercial versus one featured in a product placement (23%).
--FIND/SVP, August 2005

Product placement inside video games and advergaming is expected to reach $260 million by 2008, up from $79 million in 2003.
--The Yankee Group, August 2005

Marketing, Small business - Marketing and Advertising Statistics

Posted using ShareThis

Stop The Tax On Golf in California

2009-01-16T14:00:00.000-08:00

Did you know that lawmakers in Sacramento may soon TAX GOLF? That's a tax on greens fees, driving range fees, cart rentals, lessons, club memberships and dues . . . on and on it goes! This unfair tax -- which will average about 10% statewide -- singles out golf for taxation. Other sports and recreational activities are not being similarly taxed.This is a REAL threat to the golf industry and to golfers in California. Without action now, this tax could become law on April 1, 2009.

The California Alliance for Golf is working to mobilize Golfers in California to stop this tax now. Please visit www.forecalifornia.com today to learn more about this threat and the many ways you can get involved to stop this unfair tax.

There is still time. California needs a budget fix – but it should not come at the expense of California's golfers and the golf industry. There are other solutions, and the lawmakers need to hear from California's golfers today.

To get involved and to make your voice heard, visit www.forecalifornia.com today.

Join OC Music Scene

2009-01-15T17:05:00.001-08:00

An Evening of Celebration - Baja 1000, Velocity, Blue C Advertising

2008-12-15T19:16:00.000-08:00

Click below to see pictures from a the Baja 1000 co-sponsored Velocity event.

Velocity Magazine Ceases Publishing

2008-12-11T20:04:00.000-08:00

December 11th, 2008, 5:29 pm

Velocity magazine, a bi-monthly magazine for Orange County auto aficionados, will stop printing after just seven issues because of the current economic troubles, publisher David Threshie said today.

The glossy magazine debuted in October 2007 and was flush with ads for high-cost watches, alcohol, auto accessories and collector cars.

It was one of the only magazines in the region to target and reach affluent male readers. But it arrived as the economy — and auto industry in particular — struggled with everything from gas price spikes to the housing bubble bursting to the credit crunch to the collapse of print media.

“It was on its way to being profitable but the severe economic downturn slowed its trajectory to the point where we had to make a decision: Suspend it until the economy rebounds or weather the storm,” Threshie said. “Our ramp up essentially stalled right after the mortgage and banking industries collapsed.”

The magazine’s Web site — www.velocitymag.com — will continue to appear. Threshie said he also plans to develop a national cable show that features the Orange County car culture.

“We are talking to several networks with the hope of getting a show together to air sometime after the first of the year,” Threshie said.

Threshie said he plans to revive the magazine when the economy recovers, but for now he will cut his advertising and editorial staff.

Velocity is independent of the Orange County Register, although Threshie is the son of the newspaper’s former publisher and is a former member of the board of Freedom Communications Inc., the Register’s parent company.

Jay Leno's Garage Tour

2008-12-10T12:28:00.000-08:00

Tuesday, December 9th, the Velocity team, writers, TV spokeswoman, and friends battled their way deep into Burbank to visit Jay Leno's Garage. We had the great opportunity to see his personal collection... WOW! About 125 of the finest automobiles around! Pictures and video were not allowed but at the end of the tour, the ever so sweet Rosalie let us take this group photo.

John Force Holiday Car Show

2008-12-10T12:12:00.001-08:00

Check out some photos from this Saturday's John Force Holiday Car Show.

Baja 1000 Ride

2008-11-17T21:57:00.000-08:00

Friday, November 14th Sarah, David and I ventured to Barstow to test run the "Team Wahoo's" Baja 1000 class 1 ride. Fricken awesome time!!! Jim Riley (VP Marketing Kettle One) and Eric Morley (Blue C) were great hosts.

Red Bull Drifting World Championship

2008-11-15T18:08:00.000-08:00

In Long Beach on November 11, 2008, Laura Jacobsen, Genevieve Chappell & filming crew, and I attended for the inaugural Red Bull Drifting World Championship. The city of Long Beach hosted the parade of cars through the downtown area and a draw party at the local establishment, “Smooth’s Sports Grill”.

The special drifting track was at the Port of Long Beach and featured six (6) turns, a high speed right-hand entry that pushed the drivers into the 100+ mph range. Awesome to watch by the way... The course definitely pushed the drivers to their limits for the ultimate drifting competition.

32 of the world’s best drifters gathered on Saturday and Sunday at the Port of Long Beach to compete for the largest prize purse in drifting history. We caught up with Samuel Hubinette for a VelocityTV interview and to wish him good luck on the competition.

Unfortunately, Samuel, (2 time world champion) didn't take home the gold this time... first place went to Rhys Millen, $25,000; Teammate Daijiro Yoshihara and his Bridgestone / RMR Pontiac GTO took home the 2nd place prize of $15,000 and the 2007 and 2008 Formula DRIFT champion, Tanner Foust and the Rockstar / AEM Nissan 350Z took home 3rd place overall and $10,000.

A fun time was had by all!!! Until next time... drift on baby!

JDRF Walk To Cure Diabetes 2008

2008-11-09T18:06:00.000-08:00

Yolande, Spencer, Alycia, and I joined Sabrina on Sunday, November 9th for her annual JDRF walk at UCI. It was my first time joining their walk... and I'm glad I did it. One of the newest things I'm trying to do is lots of charity work. It not only feels good to help others but raises awareness for the causes.

I recruited yet another person for the 40 mile Avon walk next year. Alycia said she would join... YEAY! We'll start training soon.

Lost - 75 miles out of the way

2008-11-08T09:46:00.000-08:00

What a way to start the morning... Genevieve Chappell and I are on way to willow springs for the VARA vintage racing and missed the exit.

We stopped at a gas station and found out we 75 miles out of the way!!! Shiz!

Warmest Regards!
Joy Loo
714.932.0396

Sent from my Blackberry

Donna Karan / Harper's Bazaar Event

2008-11-06T15:20:00.000-08:00

Genevieve Chappell, Joy Loo, Kathy Marino, Melissa

On Wednesday, November 12th we joined Kathy Marino (CEO/Executive Producer of Corporate Development For Joint Ventures) and Avril Graham (Executive Fashion & Beauty Editor, Harper's Bazaar Magazine) for an exclusive brunch and guilt-free shopping. Celebrating Donna Karan's new modern astrology handbag collection.

I arrived with Genevieve armed with my business cards and ready to schmooze. We worked the room meeting and greeting... we met some really great women and have since joined them for their monthly OC business meetings.

Time came for the store to do the many different drawings... 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th name was called... I never win any of those things. Oh wait, there's one final drawing... the grand prize. VIP Donna Karan discount card for one year... drum roll please..... JOY LOO. What?!? Yes, I won! So, I couldn't have it go to waste! And it was for charity... benefiting the Orangewood Children's Foundation. Scored a hot pair of shoes!!!

I Feel Sick!!!

2008-11-06T12:28:00.001-08:00

How many calories do you think is on these three trays? A healthy lunch outing turned into this nasty fast food run.

Warmest Regards!
Joy Loo
714.932.0396

Sent from my Blackberry

Reese's Overload

2008-11-05T15:58:00.000-08:00

Want to see what happens when Reese's cups make it into our office....

Velocity TV - 4th Episode

2008-11-02T20:03:00.000-08:00

Velocity TV - Episode 4 from Velocity Magazine on Vimeo.

Check out Genevieve Chappell at the OC Auto Show.

Sacro's Halloween Party '08

2008-10-26T21:55:00.000-07:00

We had a fun night at our '08 Halloween party. Halloween party was at Mark Sacro's in the LBC. Actually, the entire complex was having a party... not sure what to call this type of living... it was an industrial loft type place. It had a common area with horror movies playing on the walls, pool table, full keg, couches, and storage space. From what I saw, out of the 7 or so rooms 3 were occupied as residence and the others were an artist studio, sound proofed band rehearsal studio, and a full recording studio. Most of the rooms were open for roaming which was good as the place was packed. I estimated about 250 - 300 people... surprising the cops only came once and that was to tell everyone to get back inside.

See below for some pictures from the Halloween party!

Velocity Office Joke

2008-10-22T16:54:00.001-07:00

In our office going on vacation is not something to look forward to... Laura went to Florida for 10 glorious days... basking in the sun and frolicking in the sand with her honey bunny! While she was out we decided to fully decorate her entire cube with wedding decorations... balloons, streamers, wedding bells hanging from the ceiling, reversing everything on her desk to the opposite side, changing everything to her NEW last name, and to top it off... an email went out to 60+ people we share an office with... congratulating her wedding nuptials upon her arrival.

She got SEVERAL emails and visits congratulating her on her new beginnings. This is not the first time this has happened in our office... there are still reminisce of foil and suran wrap on two other people's desk.

sent via blackberry

2008 Packard International Show

2008-10-19T19:09:00.000-07:00

With Robert Escalante's invitation, I had the pleasure of attending the 45th annual Packard Grand Salon event today. For the past two years it's been held at The Island Hotel in Newport Beach. The Pageant of Packard's were presented on the upper deck of The Island Hotel... and I have to say, what a sight of beauty that was.

From Packard International Show

Judging began at 10 am for the all the categories in the pre-war and post-war divisions. I strolled through all the cars with last years post-war Best in Show winner, Mark Beythoun. He was giving me pointers on each one-of-a-kind Packard. I had my choice for Best in Show and couldn't wait to see if it was the judges pick too. My pick of course was chosen based on aesthetics and beauty instead of the typical point system. I wouldn't even know what to take points away for anyway... Wanna see my pick??

From Packard International Show

As everyone trickled down to the ballroom for lunch, Lugano Diamonds was on site wetting our visual appetite with two models adorned with beautiful diamonds, precious colored stones, and yards and yards of pearls. The models walked around each table showcasing all the jewelry and giving a mini bio for each piece. My favorites were the 6 carat antique pave setting $47k ring, the 130 something carat aquamarine diamond crusted necklace, and 13 carat solitaire round cut ring for an obscene amount of money. Wishful thinking...

After lunch, everyone anxiously anticipating the announcement of the winners... yeay, my choice won Best in Show post-war.

For those of you that are not familiar with the Packard's beauty see below video for a tour. Robert Escalante had an interview with NBC whipnotic several months ago. Enjoy!!!

Velocity Magazine Reunion at Cars and Coffee

2008-10-18T11:30:00.000-07:00

On October 18th 2008 Velocity invited our extended family to Cars and Coffee. As we debuted our 7th issue we showcased all the featured stories that graced the pages of Velocity Magazine. The early morning gathering at the Ford Motor Company in Irvine draws about 200 cars every Saturday. It was different this past Saturday... it was as if the cars drove off the pages of Velocity Magazine.

Since Laura was on vacation, Sarah and I manned the Velocity area selling subscriptions. Steve Emmert owner of Corporate Image Mobile Detail donated a Cilajet exterior polish for our contest drawing. Thanks Steve!

We normally leave around 8ish and the crowd starts to pack things up around 8:30 or 9:00. When I was getting ready to leave Jan Tarazkiewicz, owner of the Pinnacle Pantera (issue 7) asked if I could help him out by jump starting his 1972 Ultra Hall Pantera GT5S. I was driving the HHR Velocity Panel (company car) and thought sure I hope nothing goes wrong cause it's not my car. Well I must have foreseen the future...

We (about 5 of us standing there) open up the hood of the car and didn't see a battery... oh, there it is said Jan... he hooked up the cables to his car first then the Velocity Panel... was that supposed to happen I ask... a yes response from Jan. hmmm, I thought to myself, my Dad used to do this to my first car all the time and that never happened. Moving along, to make a long story short, Jan tried to start the car multiple times and nothing. So, he called his wife, said thanks for the help, and I was about to be on my way... I started the HHR Velocity Panel up and backed up... WHOA I can't turn the steering wheel.

I told the three guys there about the wheel not turning and they didn't know what could have happened. 20 mins later... looks like we blew the ABS fuse which handles the power steering. We kinda did a quick fix so that I could drive it. Genevieve Chappell was on hand filming, check it out below.

Velocity TV - 3rd Episode

2008-10-17T09:58:00.000-07:00

Velocity TV - 2nd Episode

2008-10-15T15:42:00.000-07:00

Velocity TV - Episode 2 from Velocity Magazine on Vimeo.

Original Mike's - Gasoline Alley

2008-10-12T21:28:00.000-07:00

If you haven't been to Original Mike's yet... you gotta go! The food is yummy, the people are friendly, and the portions put Claim Jumper to shame.

Twice a month Original Mike's has a Custom and Classics Car Show. Six different categories are judged and awarded trophies!!! BEST: Hot Rod, Classic, Truck, Muscle Car, Most Unique, and Best of Show.The large shaded patio is perfect for the BBQ lunch, live music, and appetizer menu. Oh, and did I mention FREE coffee and donuts!

Sunday show schedule:
October 12th & 26th
November 9th & 23rd
December 7th & 21st

We cruised over there on Sunday, October 12th to check things out... we shot our 4th Velocity webisode there and picked out a hot Velocity's choice winner. You can catch the webisode on Velocity's website.

Original Mike's
100 South Main Street
Santa Ana, CA. 92701

Velocity TV - 1st Episode

2008-10-11T12:00:00.000-07:00

Velocity TV - Episode 1 from Velocity Magazine on Vimeo.

Check out Velocity's 1st webisode. Sunday, September 7th Velocity shot their 1st Velocity TV webisode with TV Host Genevieve Chappell. It couldn't have been a better day... beautiful weather, seaside location, extraordinary automobiles, and great friends.

Held in the world-class seaside location of Big Corona del Mar State Beach, thousands of family, friends and extreme car enthusiasts spent the day viewing over 200 vintage & dealer select automobiles in 14 classes at this judged event. Festivities included live entertainment, food & beverages, unique vendor exhibits, VIP hospitality overlooking the entire show and awards ceremony emceed by Automotive Commentators Dave Kunz (KABC) & Art Gould (KPFK).

All benefiting The Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation. See you next year at Coastline Car Classic... definitely a show we love to attend!

2008 Pre Party - OC Auto Show

2008-10-01T02:00:00.000-07:00

Laura and I sip'n on champagne as we
preview the 2009 rides.

Click Here to see more pics

cruisn 4 a cure

2008-09-27T16:15:00.000-07:00

cruis'n 4 a cure

HOT HOT HOT!!! The heat sure didn't keep spectators away from the world's largest one day charity car show! This year's Cruis'n For a Cure show was one of the largest in history! 3600 vehicles and 15,000 spectators came from all over to support the CITY of HOPE for Prostate Cancer Research.

To see more pics CLICK HERE

To watch our Velocity webisode CLICK HERE

Me and Genevieve Chappell

My 40 Mile Feat

2008-09-17T16:02:00.000-07:00

First Annual Ambrosia Wine Fest

2008-07-20T21:46:00.000-07:00

This sweet ride is a street legal Formula F1. Yeah you guessed it! I didn't get to drive this bad boy but I'm think'n it wouldn't have been a good idea anyway... Wine Fest and Formula F1 don't mix really well.

Art Salazar showcased his cool ride and donated wine's from his vineyard to Ambrosia. The event turned out really nice and all monies raised went to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and the International Bacchus Society.

The First Annual Ambrosia Wine Fest was an international soiree, with more than seventy-five different wineries from Australia, Chile, France, Italy, and, of course, our own California backyards all at Ambrosia (upstairs from OC Pavilion). Champagne tasting was held in the basement. Schramsberg, Piper Heidseck, Moet, Ruinart, Veuve, Etoile, Bruno Paillard, Perrier Jouet and Mumm were some of the champagneries present. Guests relaxed inside the vault-turned-plush lounge with leather sofas and a fireplace.

Wine might’ve initially attracted people here, but after a few tastings, the attention turned on each other. A slurred, “Hi, what was your name?” and “Where were you from,” were common greetings heard throughout the night. All you can drink alcohol, an elaborate meal, beautiful décor, and an impeccable staff that wined and dine you. For those who missed last night’s event, not to worry. They hope to make this wine fest an annual event.

Joy To My World...

Joy Loo - New Website and Blog

Flash Cookies Explained

Lamborghini Club America OC Run

How To Import a Blog Into Facebook - Step by Step Guide

Lamborghini Club America OC Bull Run

Key Video From The World Economic Forum’s Social Networking Powerhouse Panel

Jason Calacanis (possibly) spoils Apple tablet event, drops major details

Social Net"work"ing Takes "Work" - The Art of Rerrerals

How To Promote Your Facebook Fan Page

Tip 1: Create fresh content for people to want to join:

Round 2: Invite your friends to join

Round 3: Try social ads

Round 4: Promote on Twitter

Round 5: Leverage your email contacts

10 Reasons Why Businesses Need Facebook

1. 350 Million Global Users and Counting

2. 100 Million U.S. Users

3. Average Facebook User Spends 55 Minutes Per Day

4. Nearly 80,000 Sites Using Facebook Connect

5. Facebook Fan Box Becoming Pervasive

6. Average Facebook User Has 130 Friends

7. Average Facebook User “Fans” 2 Pages per Month

8. Only 4% of Pages Have 10,000 or More Fans

9. Wall Posts Don’t Impact Popularity

10. Customized News Feed

11. Real-time Search Changes the Game

Is Ford Repositioning Itself as a "Tech Company" instead of a Car Company??

Full Specs of Google's NexusOne Revealed

Private Tour of General William Lyon Collection

OC Icon William Lyon Opens Air Museum

Here's to the crazy ones.. "Think Different"

6th Annual Gerhard Schnuerer Toys for Tots Drive

Manfred Fitzgerald - Lamborghini - The importance of brand, brand diversification - MeettheBoss

Like it or not, social media is becoming a business necessity

SOCIAL NETWORKING GOD: 350+ Social Networking Sites

Leaked Video: Swyping Versus iPhone Typing. (Swype For Android Is Next).

Google Android Smashes Apple iPhone in Mashable Reader Vote

20 Twitter Hashtags for Social Entrepreneurs, Nonprofits and Activists

Facebook Reveals Its Next Six Months of Platform Features

2009 Formula DRIFT Champion Crowned

Are You A New Blogger?? Where To Start...

Orange County Auto Show Packs Excitement and Entertainment

Lunch w Beverly Hills Lambo & owner of Al & Eds

FTC Released New Rules for Bloggers

MAC pre holiday release party!

October is Think Pink Month!!!!

Rare, Exotic ’Super Cars’ Headline Concours d’Elegance

October 4th, 2009, 4:56 pm · written by Matt Degen

5th Annual Japanese Classic Car Show

***VIDEO*** OC Lamborghini Cruise & Chat

Supercars Make Their Debut at the Concours d'Elegance St. Regis

Sentencing delayed for O.C. Lamborghini dealer

September 28th, 2009, 1:54 pm · posted by Matt Degen

On top of everything...

Business 2.0 / Web 2.0

No More Quail Lodge Resort for Pebble Beach Next Year???

Video during the OC Lamborghini Run

Video during the OC Lamborghini Run

Lamborghini Traffic Jam at The Fairmont - After Run

OC Bull Run

Concours d'Elegance at the St. Regis

Joy Loo play'n with Mike Harrah's Toys

Beautiful Sunday in OC - Enderle Center Million Dollar Car Show

NO Cars and Coffee - 7-25-09

Nick Alexander's Woodie Collection

Updated Project List

Interesting Statistics on Social Media Marketing

Love At First Sight....

Automotive Pilot Taping for Speed Channel

Hitting the Right Crowd.

Wines, Wheels, and Wishes

Family Classic Cars - Grand Opening Showroom for World Class Motoring

Sunday Driver

Salish Lodge After Party...

Brought the Sunshine From OC with Me

Heading to Seattle Washington

What Did People Do Before Technology?!?

Just Another Saturday @ Cars and Coffee

Tesla Worth More Than Half A Billion Dollars After Daimler Investment

VIDEO OC Lamborghini Cruise & Chat