Thanksgiving is a perfect time to get together with friends and family, and for those of us who live far from home, that can often involve the stress of traveling long distances to get there. But don't worry. With a little planning (and some good information), you can make your Thanksgiving travel as smooth as Pumpkin Pie. Check out this page for vacation ideas and tips for traveling over the Thanksgiving holiday.

Fast Facts

1. Thanksgiving is the fourth Thursday in November in the United States
2. Thanksgiving 2008: November 27
3. Best 2008 departure days: November 22, 25, 27
4. Best 2008 return days: November 27, 29, December 2
5. Tends to be one of the busiest travel days of the year

Thanksgiving Travel Tips

It is recommended to book Thanksgiving flights early, since it is one of the busiest travel periods of the year. In 2008, USA Today reported that there would be 3,000 fewer flights offered during the season, resulting in "fuller planes and higher fares."

To avoid paying higher costs, Fodor's recommended planning a Thanksgiving trip outside the "normal date range." For example, consider flying in on Thanksgiving and leaving on the following Monday. Fodor's also suggested taking a bus instead of a plane for shorter trips.

Thanksgiving Events

Thanksgiving festivities range from parades (like the popular Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade) to theme parks. Travel + Leisure also listed the top 25 destinations for the holiday, with Honolulu, Charleston, San Diego, New York City and Phoenix rounding out the top five for 2008.

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Cheap Thanksgiving Flights | Thanksgiving | How to Fly During the Holidays | Holiday Travel Tips | Christmas Travel | Halloween Travel | When Is Thanksgiving Day | How to Thaw a Turkey

Creating a vegan Thanksgiving feast is a lot easier than you think. For some delicious and nutritious ideas that also happen to be animal-cruelty free, check out the links on the right.

Fast Facts

1. Thanksgiving is the fourth Thursday in November in the U.S.
2. Celebrated the second Monday in October in Canada
3. Turkey is commonly replaced by stuffed Tofurkey roast
4. Between 3-10% of U.S. American adults claim to be vegetarian
5. Unturkey Seitan Roast is a turkey alternative made from wheat gluten

Turkey Alternatives

The traditional staple of Thanksgiving dinner has always been the turkey, but vegan families do not consume any meat or animal byproducts. Many companies specialize in faux turkey alternatives like Tofurkey, Field Roast's Celebration Roast and Garden Protein's Veggie Turkey Breast With Wild Rice and Cranberry Stuffing. There are also a number of recipes available so you can make your own turkey-seitan roasts.

Related Pages on Mahalo

How to Have a Vegetarian Thanksgiving | Best Vegetarian Thanksgiving | Thanksgiving Recipes | Thanksgiving Desserts | Thanksgiving Dinner | Best Thanksgiving Stuffing | Best Thanksgiving Pies | Vegetarian Food | Vegan Food | Tofurkey | Turkey Cupcakes | Thanksgiving Pie Recipes | Easy Thanksgiving Recipes | Fun Thanksgiving Recipes | How to Make Mashed Potatoes | How to Make Pumpkin Pie | How to Make Stuffing

Make a treat that everyone will want to gobble up this Thanksgiving. For a bountiful supply of turkey-themed Thanksgiving cupcake recipes check out the information on this page as well as How to Decorate Thanksgiving Cupcakes.

Fast Facts

1. Celebrate Canadian Thanksgiving the second Monday of October
2. American Thanksgiving traditionally celebrated the fourth Thursday of November
3. Thanksgiving 2008: November 27th
4. Great treat for classroom parties
5. Fun activity for kids to decorate

Turkey Cupcake Tips

Turkey cupcakes come in many different shapes and styles. Chocolate, vanilla, carrot and yellow cake will all work well for the body, especially since you'll be covering it with icing. Tail feathers can be made from candy corn or red and yellow Swedish fish candies, and to create a feathered body, try dipping iced cupcakes into colored coconut flakes. Add almond or Nutter Butter cookie wings. Heads can be made from many different items, including mini-cupcakes, cookies or candies. Don't forget to add the turkey's waddle, by clipping a thin strip off of a red Fruit Rollup.

Delightful Thanksgiving Dishes

Learn how to thaw, brine, roast, and carve your Thanksgiving turkey for a delicious Thanksgiving dinner

Find the perfect wine to pair with your turkey

What are the best side dishes to serve on Thanksgiving?

Give yourself a break with a few fun and easy recipes

Don't stop at pie: Themed cupcakes, cookies, and cakes can top off your feast!

Related Pages on Mahalo

How to Decorate Thanksgiving Cupcakes | How to Make Vanilla Cupcakes | How to Make Chocolate Cupcakes | Thanksgiving Cake Recipes | Thanksgiving Cupcakes | Thanksgiving Cookie Recipes | Thanksgiving Desserts | Halloween Cupcakes | Thanksgiving Fruit Salad Recipes | Pumpkin Pie | Pumpkin Roll | Best Thanksgiving Pies | Pumpkin Cookies | Vampire Cupcakes | How to Decorate Halloween Cupcakes | How to Frost Cupcakes | Thanksgiving Coloring Pages

Thanksgiving is a holiday overflowing with imagery and photo opportunities. As families gather, the cameras come out to capture keepsake moments forever. Here are some links to the best Thanksgiving pictures on the internet, as well as some tips on how you can capture your own memories this holiday season.

Fast Facts

1. Thanksgiving falls annually on the fourth Thursday in November in the U.S.
2. Canadian Thanksgiving is the second Monday of October every year
3. Thanksgiving 2008: November 27
4. Memorialize photos from Thanksgiving gatherings with a holiday scrapbook
5. Many families gather together and feast on Thanksgiving
6. Traditional Thanksgiving imagery includes family, turkey, Autumn foliage, pilgrims, Indians, parades, Thanksgiving dinner

Thanksgiving Photo Tips

Before you snap a shot, know exactly what the subject of your photo is going to be.

Since many families don't get to gather very often try to get everyone together for a formal style photo. Set up your tripod, check the shot and get into the photo with your family.

If you live in an area with a great parade, don't be shy. Get out there and snap shots of the Thanksgiving floats.

Every picture is an opportunity for humor, and you can create your own funny Thanksgiving photos with photo editing software. For example, try blowing up a picture of a turkey to three times its size, then carefully cut it out and transpose it onto a table full of people with wide-eyed and amazed expressions.

Related Topics on Mahalo

Thanksgiving | Thanksgiving Screensavers | Thanksgiving Wallpaper | Thanksgiving MySpace Layouts | Thanksgiving Coloring Pages | Thanksgiving Cupcakes | Thanksgiving Recipes | Thanksgiving Clip Art | Funny Thanksgiving Pictures | Thanksgiving Graphics | Thanksgiving Humor and Jokes | Thanksgiving Word Search | Thanksgiving Quotes | Thanksgiving Facts | Thanksgiving Poems | Thanksgiving Dinner | Turkey Cupcakes | Thanksgiving eCards | Thanksgiving Games | Thanksgiving Crafts for Kids

This page includes a schedule of professional and college football games being played on Thanksgiving Day, November 27, 2008. The tradition of pro football being played on Thanksgiving started in 1920. The Detroit Lions have been playing on Thanksgiving since 1925. This year's match-ups include: Detroit Lions versus the Tennessee Titans, the Seattle Seahawks versus the Dallas Cowboys and the Arizona Cardinals versus the Philadelphia Eagles. The NFL currently holds three regular-season games on Thanksgiving Day. A third game was added in 2006 and is aired on the NFL Network.

Fast Facts

1. Pro football games on Thanksgiving began in 1920
2. Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys host games on Thanksgiving every year.
3. Dallas Cowboys have played every Thanksgiving since 1966
4. A third game was added in 2006 which airs on the NFL Network

Related Pages on Mahalo

Green Bay Packers | Detroit Lions | New York Jets | Dallas Cowboys | Indianapolis Colts; | Atlanta Falcons | Thanksgiving | Thanksgiving Football

Dessert is often one of the most anticipated courses of Thanksgiving dinner. Delicious cakes, tarts, pies and fruit salads lie at the end of the table just waiting to be tasted. For some of the best Thanksgiving dessert recipes on the net, take a look at the links on this page.

Fast Facts

1. Canada celebrates Thanksgiving on the second Monday in October each year
2. The United States celebrates Thanksgiving the fourth Thursday in November
3. Popular desserts include pies, cake, fruit and gelatin salads, pastries, tarts, cupcakes, cookies
4. Apple and pumpkin are two of the most popular Thanksgiving dessert flavors
5. Many Thanksgiving desserts are high in carbohydrates and sugar

Thanksgiving Dessert Ideas

Here are just a few popular dessert ideas to make your guests' mouths water:

• Pumpkin Pie
• Cookies and cupcakes
• Spiced Rum Cake
• Cheesecake
• Pumpkin Roll
• Apple Gingerbread Cake
• Pecan Pie
• Cranberry Bread Pudding

Delightful Thanksgiving Dishes

Learn how to thaw, brine, roast, and carve your Thanksgiving turkey for a delicious Thanksgiving dinner

Find the perfect wine to pair with your turkey

What are the best side dishes to serve on Thanksgiving?

Give yourself a break with a few fun and easy recipes

Don't stop at pie: Themed cupcakes, cookies, and cakes can top off your feast!

Related Pages on Mahalo

Thanksgiving | Thanksgiving Recipes | Best Thanksgiving Movies | Pumpkin Pie | Sweet Potato Recipes | Cranberry Sauce Recipe | Mashed Potatoes | Thanksgiving Cupcakes | Thanksgiving Cookie Recipes | Cute Thanksgiving Recipes | Thanksgiving Desserts | Thanksgiving Gelatin Salad Recipes | Fun Thanksgiving Recipes | Thanksgiving Recipes for Kids | How to Decorate Thanksgiving Cupcakes

As part of the regular season schedule, the National Football League plays games on Thursday nights in addition to the normal Sunday and Monday games.

The Pittsburgh Steelers hosted the Cincinnati Bengals on November 20, 2008. The Steelers won the game by the final score of 27 - 10. Wide receiver Chad Ocho Cinco was deactivated for the game after violating an unspecified team rule.

Fast Facts

1. Introduced in 2006
2. Also called the "Run to the Playoffs"
3. 2008 regular season opened with Giants vs. Redskins on Thursday, September 4
4. Remaining Thursday night games held from Week 10 to Week 16
5. Thursday night TV networks include NBC, FOX, CBS and the NFL Network
6. Most Thursday night games will air on the NFL Network, as well as on over-the-air channels in the local markets of the two teams
7. Games broadcast on the NFL Network are also streamed live on NFL.com
8. Many games played annually on Thanksgiving

2008 Thursday Night Football Schedule

• September 4: Giants 16 - Redskins 7
• November 6: Broncos 34 - Browns 30
• November 13: Jets 34 - Patriots 31 OT
• November 20: Bengals at Steelers
• November 27: Titans at Lions
• November 27: Seahawks at Cowboys
• November 27: Cardinals at Eagles
• December 4: Raiders at Chargers
• December 11: Saints at Bears
• December 18: Colts at Jaguars

Thursday Night Recap

On November 6, 2008, the Denver Broncos defeated the Cleveland Browns 34-30. The game marked the NFL starting debut of Browns quarterback Brady Quinn. Quinn threw for 239 yards with two touchdowns, while completing 23 of 35 attempts. Broncos QB Jay Cutler had 3 Touchdowns with 1 interception and 447 yards passing. Cutler completed 24 of 42 passes.

Related Pages on Mahalo

NFL Schedule | National Football League | NFL Picks | NFL Playoffs | NFL Draft | NFL Season Opener | Giants Redskins

Republican Michael Mukasey is the U.S. Attorney General. He replaced Alberto Gonzales, who left the office amidst the United States Attorney Firings scandal, on September 17, 2007.

Mukasey collapsed while giving a speech at a Federalist Society dinner in Washington D.C. on November 20, 2008. Though reports on blogs and through Twitter claimed that Mukasey had died, the Department of Justice says he is in good condition and will remain in the hospital overnight.

Department of Justice Statement

• "The Attorney General is conscious, conversant and alert. His vital statistics are strong and he is in good spirits. He is receiving excellent care and appreciates all of the good wishes and prayers he has received. The doctors will keep him overnight for further observations."

Fast Facts

1. Full name: Michael Bernard Mukasey
2. Born: July 28, 1941
3. Birth place: Bronx, New York
4. Alma maters: Columbia University and Yale Law School
5. Party: Republican
6. Spouse: Susan Mukasey
7. Children: Two, Marc and Jessica
8. Appointed to District Court by Ronald Reagan
9. Clashed with The Bush Administration on allowing Jose Padilla access to attorneys
10. Son Marc Mukasey is a partner at Bracewell & Giuliani LLP

Judgeship

Mukasey previously spent 18 years as a judge in the District Court of Southern New York. He retired from the position in 2006 and is a partner at the New York City law firm of Patterson Belknap Webb & Tyler.

Attorney General Appointment

On November 8, 2007, Mukasey was confirmed by the Senate by a vote of 53–40, the narrowest margin to appoint an Attorney General in 50 years. Much of his confirmation hearing surrounded the Bush Administration's policy on "enhanced interrogation techniques," including waterboarding. Several senators, including future Democratic primary candidates Christopher Dodd and Joe Biden, refused to support Mukasey's nomination, because he would not unequivocally call the practice illegal.

9/11 Wiretap Comment

During a March 27, 2008, address, Mukasey tearfully commented that the ability to wiretap a key phone call coming from Afghanistan to the United States, prior to the 9/11 terrorist attacks, could have prevented the tragedy. There are no records of a critical phone call having been made. Critics have also pointed out that the call, if it existed and could be identified, could have been legally wiretapped under existing orders. The Justice Department is still trying to understand the exact meaning of Mukasey's statements under increasing scrutiny from a congressional inquiry.

After an impostor claiming to be NBA superstar Shaquille O'Neal began posting on Twitter, the real Shaq created an account to set the record straight and reclaim his identity on the popular social media site.

Fast Facts

1. Name of legitimate Twitter account is The_Real_Shaq
2. Fake Twitter account was created by fan claiming to be the NBA superstar
3. Fake Twitter account was named Shaquille O'Neal
4. The name of the twitter impostor is Ward Andrews
5. Impostor claimed the account was for humor and felt most "followers" of his account knew it was fake

The Fake Twitter Account

A fake twitter account was created under the name of Shaquille O'Neal. The fraudulent poster went so far as to make several references to VitaminWater, which Shaq sponsors. The fake account holder even used phrasing which resembled the speech pattern of the NBA star.

The imposter also took the opportunity to talk trash about other NBA players such as Andrew Bogut. In a post, the twitter impostor tweeted, "On the plane back to #PHX, another Suns W. Bogut is Erika Dampier with a beard." Other tweets made by the impostor include the observation that the Phoenix Suns offense was "like the Pythagorean Theorem. There is no answer." and "Guys know if they need an instant bucket, they can come to me. As the son of Jor-El, it's in my nature to help others and save the universe."

After Shaq received the news that an impostor was using his name on the social website, the superstar responded by creating a legitimate account. In an interview discussing the decision to join Twitter Shaq stated, "Somebody out there was trying to use my language and trying to speak for me. Rather than have that happen, I thought I'd do it myself. It's a fun thing. It's a way for fans to connect."

The impostor was revealed as Ward Andrews. Andrews explained his actions by stating, "All the longtime followers, over 500 followers, they know it’s a joke. I really didn’t have any intent to pull people’s leg. It was just to entertain."

Related Pages on Mahalo

• Shaquille O'Neal | Andrew Bogut | Erick Dampier | Phoenix Suns | Los Angeles Lakers | Miami Heat | Orlando Magic | Kobe Bryant | Tim Duncan | Kevin Garnett | Charles Barkley | Magic Johnson | Phil Jackson | Jerry Buss | Steve Nash | Grant Hill | Dwyane Wade | Alonzo Mourning | Sacramento Kings

Hillary Clinton was reportedly offered the post of secretary of state in the Obama administration at a November 13, 2008, meeting. Clinton had reportedly left a meeting with Obama believing that the job was hers if she wanted it. Senator Clinton has referred all questions about the rumor to the Obama Transition Team. Obama spokesperson Tommy Vietor has declined to comment on any speculation.

The Guardian reported on November 17, 2008, that Clinton plans to accept Obama's offer of the post. However, the following day, several sources close to Clinton maintained that she might reject the offer.

Fast Facts

1. Sen. Clinton flew to Chicago, reportedly for personal business on November 13, 2008
2. Clinton ran against Obama for the Democratic presidential nomination during the 2008 elections
3. Clinton's spokespeople comment that the decision is in President-elect Obama's hands
4. An anonymous source within the Democratic Party said Clinton met with Obama on November 13, 2008 in Chicago
5. Clinton's motorcade was seen leaving Obama's Chicago office on November 13, 2008

Other Candidates

There are several names in the running for the secretary of state post. The short list includes Democrats Sen. John Kerry of Massachusetts and Gov. Bill Richardson of New Mexico, Republican Sen. Chuck Hagel of Nebraska, and former Democratic Georgia senator Sam Nunn. Former Majority Leader Tom Daschle is also seen as a possibility.

Quotes

"I think so. What would you rather do, be senator or secretary of state?"—former Bill Clinton administration official on whether Hillary Clinton would take the position were it offered

"Any speculation about cabinet or other administration appointments is really for President-elect Obama's transition team to address."—senior Clinton adviser Philippe Reines

"Hillary would make a fine secretary of state -- a very important and powerful job. Moreover, making a clear commitment to choose her for this position would add much to Obama's appeal, given that his experience in foreign policy is particularly short."—Amitai Etzioni, Huffington Post

"To appoint a very strong personality with an independent constituency into a Cabinet position requires a lot of courage"—Henry Kissinger, former secretary of state to Presidents Gerald Ford and Richard Nixon

Pvt. Ronald A. Gray, a former cook in the U.S. Army, was convicted in 1988 of committing two murders, an attempted murder and three rapes in North Carolina between 1986 and 1987. He is scheduled to be executed by lethal injection on December 10, 2008, in the Federal Correctional Complex in Terre Haute, Indiana. President George W. Bush, whose authorization is mandatory before the military can engage in capital punishment, approved the military court's sentence in July of 2008. Gray is scheduled for execution on December 10, 2008, the first military execution since 1961.

Fast Facts

1. Convicted of two murders and five rapes in 1988
2. Gray pleaded guilty to the crimes
3. Civilian court sentenced him to three consecutive and five concurrent life sentences in prison
4. A military court-martial sentenced Gray to death
5. Scheduled execution date: December 10, 2008
6. Gray is one of six people currently on the military's death row
7. Gray is expected to appeal the decision

Historical Precedent

Throughout its history, the U.S. Military has administered executions and utilized the death penalty. However, since the Uniform Code of Military Justice was passed by Congress in 1951, only 10 executions have been carried out.

The last was approved by Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1957. John F. Kennedy commuted a death sentence in 1962.

The Bella Twins are female professional tag-team wrestlers with World Wrestling Entertainment's SmackDown Diva Division. Both Nikki Bella and Brie Bella are former actresses, models and soccer players. Nikki says she is more of a "tom boy".

On November 20, 2008, Brie of the Bella Twins hosted the "pre-grand opening" of the ECCO Ultra Lounge, an environmentally friendly lounge club in Holllywood, California.

Fast Facts

1. Name: Brie and Nicole aka "Nikki"
2. Real names: Brianna and Nicole Garcia
3. Hometown: San Diego, California, and grew up in Arizona
4. Nationality: Half-Mexican and half-Italian
5. Debut: September 15, 2007
6. Trainer: Tom Prichard

Brie Bella

Brie Bella debuted on SmackDown in the summer of 2008. In her debut fight, she defeated the former Women's Champion Victoria. Brie is 5'6" and weights 125 pounds.

Nikki Bella

Nikki Bella, whose real name is Nicole, is a former actress, model an soccer player like her twin sister. She says she is a "tom boy" with a feminine side. She is also 5'6 and weighs 125 pounds.

WWE

Brianna and Nicole competed in the WWE Diva Search in 2006, but were not selected to be in the final 8. They were signed to contracts in 2007 and were sent to Florida Championship Wrestling to train. The made their debut as the Bella twins and have competed in singles and tag team matches. Brie Bella debuted on SmackDown on August 29, 2008.

Related Pages on Mahalo

Nikki Bella | Brie Bella

The Los Angeles Auto Show is an annual auto show held at the Los Angeles Convention Center in Los Angeles, California. The 2008 show features production models and concept cars from Buick, Cadillac, Ford, Toyota, Hyundai and Volkswagen, among others. The Los Angeles Auto Show is the first major North American auto show of the season, giving the press and the public a preview of the latest vehicles that may define the future of the automobile industry.

Fast Facts

1. Show dates: Friday, November 21, 2008 - Sunday, November 30, 2008
2. Press dates: November 19-20, 2008
3. Sneak Preview Night: November 20, 2008
4. Location: Los Angeles Convention Center
5. Tickets: Adults $10.00, Seniors (65+) $7.00, Children 12 and under free when accompanied by an adult
6. Held annually since 1907
7. Moved from January to November so as not to compete with the North American International Auto Show
8. The second International Auto Show in the United States to be officially recognized by the Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d'Automobiles
9. Over 1,000 of the 2009 makes and models of import and domestic cars

Sneak Preview

The Los Angeles Auto Show will be throwing a sneak preview party the evening before the show officially starts. On November 20, 2008, partygoers can be among the first to see the latest in new auto design, including the 2010 Ford Mustang. The party costs an extra $125 - $250 per guest and requires festive attire.

The Ford Mustang gets an update for 2010. Ford has been releasing details about the 2010 Mustang in the form of photos and teasers, with full details to be held until the official unveiling. The new Mustang design will be unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show on November 19, 2008.

Fast Facts

1. Official North American debut: November 19, 2008 at the Los Angeles Auto Show
2. Estimated cost: $20,000 to over $30,000
3. Coupe, convertible, and glass-roof models
4. All-new front and rear fascias
5. Same overall length and width as the current model
6. Prototype version made an appearance at the 2008 Road America under heavy camouflage

Essay Contest

To promote the 2010 Mustang, Ford ran an essay contest calling for "Mustang Stories." On November 3, 2008, Kory Chesher of the 101st Airborne Division won the contest with an essay he entitled "A Life Obsession." The 242 word essay details Chesher's lifelong love affair with the Mustang, dating from the first time he set eyes on one at age six. Chesher, a soldier serving in Iraq, wins a 2010 Ford Mustang and a trip to the LA Auto Show.

The 2011 Chevrolet Volt is a plug-in hybrid car developed by General Motors. The Volt is said to drive 40 miles on a single electric charge before reverting to a gas tank that features an increased fuel efficiency. The 2011 Chevrolet Volt should begin appearing in U.S. dealerships in late 2010.

Fast Facts

1. Class: Compact car
2. Passengers: 4
3. Engine: Plug-in series hybrid
4. Transmission: Direct
5. Electric range: 40 miles
6. 0-60: 8.5 seconds
7. MSRP: $30,000 - $40,000
8. First production vehicle from GM's E-Flex Systems Design Studio
9. Features an E-Flex propulsion system
10. On-board engine extends driving range to 434 miles
11. Volt can be charged in 6 hours using a 110-volt electrical outlet
12. Developed to complete in the alternative fuel market
13. Expected to appear in U.S. dealerships at the end of 2010

Chevrolet Volt Battery

The 2011 Chevrolet Volt will use lithium-ion battery to achieve its forty mile per charge driving range. Though an official announcement has yet to be made, Automobile Magazine suggests that General Motors will choose battery manufacturer LG Chem to supply the lithium-ion batteries for the 2011 Chevrolet Volt.

Competitors

• Toyota Prius
• Toyota Camry Hybrid
• Saturn Aura Hybrid
• Saturn VUE Hybrid

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Chevrolet Volt | Chevy Volt Photos | Los Angeles Auto Show | 2010 Ford Mustang | General Motors | Toyota Prius | Toyota Camry Hybrid | Saturn Aura | Saturn VUE | Jeep EV | Dodge EV

Toyota is set to unveil the concept for a new Camry hybrid vehicle powered with compressed natural gas at the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show in November. Toyota plans to explore the concept within their research and development department and have stated that they currently have no plans to produce the vehicle for consumers.

Fast Facts

1. Toyota CNG Camry Hybrid concept to be unveiled at the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show
2. Los Angeles Auto Show held annually at the Los Angeles Convention Center
3. Toyota released a CNG powered four-cylinder Camry in 1999
4. 1999 CNG Camrys lacked the hybrid component
5. Program discontinued in 2000 due to consumer disinterest and lack of fueling infrastructure
6. Program being revisited due to rising fuel prices and interest in alternative fuel sources

Toyota CNG Quotes

Customers were not attracted to a vehicle that required special refueling technologies and a limited refueling infrastructure,—2000 Toyota statement announcing the discontinuation of their CNG vehicle program.

With this concept, we are confirming our interest in pursuing CNG within our broad and comprehensive R&D scope. Natural gas and an expanded retail-friendly CNG infrastructure could be seen as a model for future hydrogen infrastructure,—Toyota spokesman Irv Miller in a recent statement.

Competitors

• Honda Civic GX
• Chevrolet Volt
• Chrysler EV
• Dodge EV
• Jeep EV
• Saturn VUE hybrid
• Saturn Aura hybrid

Related Pages on Mahalo

Toyota | Los Angeles Auto Show | Toyota Camry Hybrid | CNG Vehicles | CNG Conversion | 2010 Ford Mustang | Alternative Fuel | Chevrolet Volt | Honda Civic GX

The Hyundai Sonata Hybrid is a gas-electric hybrid automobile that will make its United States debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November 2008. It will be Hyundai's first gas-electric hybrid automobile, and the first Korean hybrid vehicle to arrive for sale in the United States. The Hyundai Sonata Hybrid should be available for purchase in 2010.

Fast Facts

1. Passengers: 4
2. Engine: gas-electric
3. Fuel Efficiency: over 30 mpg
4. 0-60: Currently unknown
5. MSRP: Approximately $30,000

Trend Toward Hybrids

Hybrid and electric vehicles are popular at the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show, due in part to the price of oil and gas coupled with the economic recession. In addition to financial concerns, the public is becoming more aware of the environment and the impact of fossil fuel consumptions. Whatever the reason, manufacturers like BMW, Chrysler, and Dodge are all debuting electric or gas-electric hybrid vehicles and prototypes at the Los Angeles Car Show, reflecting a public desire for fuel efficient, green automobiles.

Competitors

• Chrysler EV
• Dodge EV
• Mini E
• Chevrolet Volt
• Toyota Prius
• Toyota Camry Hybrid
• Saturn VUE hybrid
• Saturn Aura hybrid

Related Pages on Mahalo

Chrysler EV | Dodge EV | Mini E | Chevrolet Volt | Toyota Prius | Toyota Camry Hybrid | Saturn VUE | Saturn Aura | Los Angeles Auto Show

The Lamborghini Estoque is a concept car that made its debut at the Paris Motor Show and will make its United States debut at the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show. It is the first four-door sedan in Lamborghini's history. Not much information is available, but sales for the vehicle could begin as early as 2009. Hybrid and high-performance diesel versions are also in the works.

Fast Facts

1. Class: Sedan
2. Passengers: 4
3. Engine: V10
4. MSRP: Not available

Bullfighting and the Lamborghini

Lamborghini's trademark bull crest was inspired by creator Ferruccio Lamborghini's Taurus zodiac sign. Almost every Lamborghini has been named after some aspect of bullfighting. The Miura was named after bull breeder Eduardo Miura. The Islero was named after a Miura bull that killed matador Manolete. Espada is a sword, and Jarama is an area known for bullfighting. The Diablo and Murciélago were both famous bulls, and the Gallardo is a type of bull. An estoque is a type of sword traditionally used by matadors. In fact, the most famous Lamborghini which did not follow the bullfighting naming tradition is the Countach, which translates loosely to "wolf-whistle."

Competitors

• Maserati
• Alfa Romeo
• Ferrari
• Porsche

Related Pages on Mahalo

Ferrari | Los Angeles Auto Show | Maserati | Alfa Romeo | Sports Cars | Porsche | Lamborghini

The Ferrari California is a folding hardtop convertible that made its debut at the Paris Motor Show and will make an appearance at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November of 2008. The California has a 7-speed dual clutch transmission, F1-Trac traction control system, and a 0 to 60 time of under 4 seconds. It will retail at around $200,000.

Fast Facts

1. Class: Grand tourer
2. Passengers: 2
3. Engine: 4,300 cc /V8
4. Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch automated, manual 6-speed
5. Power: 460.00 BHP (338.6 KW) @ 7500.00 RPM
6. 0-100: under 4 seconds
7. MSRP: $200,000

Car And Driver Review

1. Pros: Beauty, power, speed. "The California aims to sate the desires of the ultrarich who crave both open-air and Grand Tourer experiences."
2. Cons: Price. The Ferrari California will run roughly $200,000, though as Car And Driver notes "we're going to go ahead and say it'll be worth whatever they ask."

What's In A Name?

The Ferrari California takes its name from the late-1950s Ferrari 250 GT Spyder California. The Spyder California was the last of the dual-purpose open-air Ferraris. Only about 100 were made available, and production ended in 1963, making them a sought-after sports car for collectors.

Competitors

• Maserati
• Alfa Romeo

Related Pages on Mahalo

Ferrari | Los Angeles Auto Show | Maserati | Alfa Romeo | Sports Cars

The Chrysler EV is an all-electric minivan based on the design of the popular Chrysler Town and Country minivan. The Chrysler EV is said to drive 40 miles on a single electric charge with a top speed of over 100 miles per hour. Chrysler is releasing the Chrysler EV as part of a series of new Chrysler-developed electric vehicles which include electric models of the Jeep Wrangler and the Dodge Viper.

Fast Facts

1. Class: Minivan
2. Category: Range-extended electric minivan
3. Drivetrain: Electric propulsion, front wheel drive
4. Passengers: seats 7
5. Electric range: 40 miles
6. Power: 190 kW (268 hp)
7. Torque: 650 N m (480 lbs.-ft.)
8. 0-60: 8.7 seconds
9. Top speed: More than 100 miles per hour
10. Energy recovery: Regenerative braking
11. Engine: small gasoline engine extends range to 400 miles
12. Based on the Chrysler Town and Country minivan
13. Powered at all times by electricity
14. Produces half the emission of a standard gas-powered car
15. Expected in dealerships as early as late 2010
16. Release date planned to coincide with the release of the 2011 Chevrolet Volt

Chrysler EV Battery System

• Type: Lithium-ion
• Energy: 22 kWh
• Peak power: 200 kW
• Voltage: 370 to 410
• Charging: Onboard charger, dual voltage

Competitors

• Chevrolet Volt
• Toyota Prius
• Toyota Camry Hybrid
• Saturn VUE hybrid
• Saturn Aura hybrid

Related Pages on Mahalo

Chevrolet Volt | Los Angeles Auto Show | 2010 Ford Mustang | Toyota Prius | Toyota Camry Hybrid | Saturn VUE | Saturn Aura | Mini E | Jeep EV | Dodge EV | Nissan 370Z | Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

The Dodge EV is one of three electric concept cars from Chrysler, which are set to debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The Dodge EV is an all-electric sports car similar to the Tesla Roadster but with a 200 kilowatt electric motor versus the Roadster's 184. Production models of the Dodge EV could be released as early as 2010.

Fast Facts

1. Engine: 200 kilowatt
2. Fuel Efficiency: Maximum of 220 miles between charges
3. Power: 268 horsepower
4. Torque: 480 foot-pounds
5. 0-60: 5 seconds
6. MSRP: not released, but will probably be less than $109,000

Electric Trip

Chrysler's trio of electric cars includes the Dodge EV, Chrysler EV and Jeep EV. Part of Chrysler's ENVI program, the models would compete with other hybrid cars on the market. "You're looking at a full line of electric vehicles, so one has to believe, has to understand that we've made huge commitments both from a resource standpoint and a financial standpoint," says Chrysler chief executive Bob Nardelli. Of the trio, only the Dodge EV is slated for a definite 2010 release, with the other two remaining in prototype status pending further commitment by Chrysler.

Related Pages on Mahalo

Chrysler EV | Dodge | Chrysler | Los Angeles Auto Show | Mini E | Chrysler EV | Jeep EV | Nissan 370Z | Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

The Jeep EV is part of a series of Chrysler-developed electric vehicles designed to compete in the fuel efficient vehicle market. The Jeep EV is said to drive 40 miles on a single electric charge and uses a small gasoline engine to power its battery to increase the Jeep EV's driving range to 400 miles. Based on the design of the popular Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, the Jeep EV is expected to appear in dealerships as early as late 2010.

Fast Facts

1. Class: SUV
2. Category: Range-extended electric vehicle
3. Drivetrain: Electric propulsion, two wheel drive and four wheel drive
4. Passengers: 4
5. Electric range: 40 miles on a single charge
6. Engine: small electric engine extends range to 400 miles
7. Power: 200 kW (268 hp)
8. Torque: 400 N m (295 lbs.-ft.)
9. Energy recovery: Regenerative braking
10. 0-60: 9 seconds
11. Top speed: More than 90 miles per hour
12. Based on the design of the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited
13. Produces half the emissions of a comparable gas-powered vehicle
14. Expected to appear in dealerships as soon as late 2010
15. Release expected to coincide with the release of the 2011 Chevrolet Volt

Jeep EV Battery System

• Type: Lithium-ion
• Energy: 27 kWh
• Peak power: 200 kW
• Voltage: 370 to 410
• Charging: Onboard charging, dual voltage

Competitors

• Chevrolet Volt
• Toyota Prius
• Toyota Camry Hybrid
• Saturn Aura hybrid
• Saturn VUE hybrid

Related Pages on Mahalo

Chevrolet Volt | 2011 Chevrolet Volt | 2010 Ford Mustang | Los Angeles Auto Show | Chrysler EV | Dodge EV | Toyota Prius | Toyota Camry Hybrid | Saturn Aura | Saturn VUE | Mini E | Nissan 370Z

The Daily Mail reported on November 20, 2008, that Madonna and ex-husband Guy Ritchie have reached a settlement in their divorce case. In the settlement, Ritchie has forgone his rights to any share of Madonna's fortune. The couple have agreed to share custody of their two children, Rocco and David, splitting their time between New York, with their mother, and London, with their father.

Fast Facts

1. Couple's pending divorce was confirmed on October 15, 2008
2. Madonna is said to be worth approximately $521.4 million
3. Divorce settlement was announced on November 20, 2008
4. Ritchie was said to have refused to take any of Madonna's fortune
5. Couple have agreed to share the custody of their children
6. Madonna's daugher, Lourdes, will stay with her mother in New York
7. Ritchie reportedly agreed not to disclose information concerning his marriage to Madonna
8. Couple did not have a prenuptual agreement

Quotes

"It will be all over by the end of the month. The priority for him has always been the children. Ritchie has not wanted her money. He has done exactly what Billie Piper did when she divorced Chris Evans. She walked away without any of his money, much to her credit. Guy Ritchie has done the same."—A source according to the Daily Mail

"Ritchie could have taken her to the cleaners. He is a very honourable man to have walked away."—A second source according to the Daily Mail

Breaking Celebrity News

Photos leaked of Prince William relieving himself at a polo match

Robert Pattinson death rumors take flight

Brittany McKey Sullivan wins Top Model

Brad Pitt refuses to talk about his tattoos

Jennifer Garner is granted a permanent restraining order against Steven Burky

Meet Eugene Osment, Haley Joel Osment's father

Britney Spears seen having dinner with model Marco D'Angelo

Natalie Imbruglia spotted kissing Will.i.am

Is Chris Martin retiring?

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Madonna | Guy