Earthquake that hit Hawaii on Sunday, October 15, 2006

Dear Friends,

I am overwhelmed by everyone’s concerns regarding the earthquake that hit the Hawaiian Islands on Sunday, October 15th. My wife, Lori, and I have been inundated with phone calls and e-mails from around the world. It's very heart warming. Your thoughtfulness is very appreciated.

I am currently on the mainland. I just did a big fund raiser on Saturday evening for a wonderful organization called “Just For Kids.”

Lori called me Sunday morning after the quake hit. It was her first earthquake and she doesn't want to go through another one. I was in two different earthquakes in California a few years ago.
Thankfully everyone and everything is fine. Lori was a little shook up (no pun intended). We lost power at the house and a few things fell off the shelves and walls but other than that, no major damage. We called friends on the Big Island (which is closer to the epicenter) and fortunately they are fine, too.

I guess this was scarier than damaging. My concern was that this could have trigger a tsunami but all reports are that it shouldn't happen.

Here is a report and a few thoughts from Lori:

The news media makes it sound worse than what it is. And since all news comes out of Honolulu, Oahu, they act like they had the major brunt of the quake when in reality we on Maui are closer to the Big Island (i.e. Hawaii) where the epicenter was. Our friends on the Big Island are fine other than being shaken up (still no pun intended). Fortunately there were no casualties and damage was minimal. Any evacuations are merely precautionary.

A reference to the epicenter to Maui would be like the distance from Chicago to Detroit. I was in the bathroom getting ready for church when the entire condo started shaking violently. It sounded and felt like a freight train coming thru the wall. I could hear knickknacks falling off the walls and shelves. My cupboards held up well so no broken dishes or what not. Being a midwest girl and observing windy and overcast weather, my initial thought was tornado and thus ducked down in the bathtub all the while thinking the upstairs condo was going to crash in on me.

In a minute or two it ended. I ran outside and asked my neighbors, "What the HELL was that?!" "That--" they declared, "was an earthquake!" We were without power for about 4 hours. We learned that the quake was 6.6 and the epicenter located approx 6 miles south of the Big Island (Hawai'i). Thankfully, I did not feel the 2-3 aftershocks that followed. Everyone's main concern was tsunami but radio reports quickly assured us there was no threat of one.

Oh and if anyone viewed the AOL news pictures -- that chicken stand in Kihei (here on the South shore of Maui about 30 minutes from us) with all the people lined up -- had nothing to do with the earthquake but everything to do with just being good grinds. (That’s local talk for good food.)

News people!?$!!

Hope that was the first and last quake I'll ever experience. Thanks for caring.

Well that’s the update from Lori who was there. I’m here on the mainland for two more shows before I return home on October 25th.

The phone is ringing with shows being booked for 2007. I still have a couple dates open for your company holiday parties. Call me if I can help you. You probably know my number by heart now, 1-800-tricky1 (1-800-874-2591).

Mahalo for you caring,

Al The Only
www.tricky1.com

PS I'm not just selling entertainment, I provide wonderful memories of your party for your guests!

My 26th year, full time, of providing magic for corporate meetings, trade shows, banquets and conventions - worldwide. Over a quarter century of adding laughter and amazement to people's lives and making memories.

PPS It’s still not too late to call Al The Only for your entertainment of magic, comedy and good clean fun at your Holiday or Christmas Party.

For more information, dates and availability call today:
1-800-tricky1 (1-800-874-2591)

Al The Only blogs
http://altheonly.blogspot.com

Important Passport Information Beginning December 31, 2006

Beginning December 31, 2006, US citizens will need a valid passport to travel to and from Bermuda, Canada, Mexico, Central & South America and the Caribbean (excluding Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands). If any portion of your trip will take place after December 31, you'll need a valid passport to re-enter the U.S.

When I travel, which is frequently, I always carry my passport. It’s just a good practice. That way it’s always with me and I never need to go looking for it when the occasion arises and I need it. I’m a magician who lives on Maui and you can see me performing magic and comedy at a convention, company banquet, luncheon or welcome reception that is held here in Hawaii. My magic has taken me all over the world: Canada, Mexico, England, Italy, Switzerland, Germany, France, Portugal, Spain, Israel, Belgium, the Netherlands and Poland. Most of my work is still back in Michigan where I’m originally from.

Here’s an extra little travel tip. I have made xerox copies of my passport. One copy is in my office, an other is at home where my wife can find it and the third is in my carry on bag. In the event I lose my passport or it gets stolen, I have a copy with me or I’m a phone call away of getting a copy or at least I can get the number to get a replacement. This is a small precaution that I haven’t needed to use but it’s there. Another idea is to scan your passport and have it in your laptop computer.

For more information on how to get a passport, prices and requirements go to www.travel.state.gov.

I wish you safe and happy travels.

Aloha,

Al The Only
www.tricky1.com

Please tell your friends and invite them to check out my blogs at

Al The Only blogs

http://altheonly.blogspot.com

and please leave a comment, I’d love to hear from you.

Protect Your Digital Gear While On Vacation

Many of us travel for business and carry our office with us. There are a few of you who get to break away on a vacation but are still tied to your laptop, PDA and cell phone.

I use Trend Micro PC-cillin as virus protection on my laptop / notebook computer and am extremely happy with their product and upgrades.

In the July edition of their new monthly newsletter “Security Brief” the fine folks at Trend Micro offer some sound advice.

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Protect your Digital Gear while on Vacation

Planning to take your laptop, PDA, cell phone with you on vacation? Remember some basic travel and vacation protection tips.

Make sure your computer has the latest Internet Security software for protection from viruses, spyware, Trojans, hackers and SPAM. Before you depart on your vacation, back up all critical files and information and leave your backup(s) in a secure location at home or work.

Remove unnecessary information from your laptop and USB drive, in case the device(s) are compromised or stolen. Also, password protect your computer, PDA and other digital equipment.

Be wary when accessing wireless hot-spots; free does not mean safe.

Don't pack your digital computer or other valuables in checked luggage.

Do not put or leave your laptop computer, PDA, cell phone or camera visible in the car; store it out of sight in the trunk prior to arriving at your final destination.

Keep a watchful eye on your computer, digital equipment, and other valuables, as they pass through security checkpoints. Retrieve all of your belongings after passing through security.

If lost or stolen, put a hold or cancel all of your online accounts as soon as possible - including your computer account(s), to minimize the chances of identity and information theft.

Most of all, remember to enjoy your vacation and your time away from the office.

Click here to learn more about PC-cillin and Trend Micro.

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I would like to thank Trend Micro for their advice and I’d like to add the following suggestions.

Have your data backed up on a travel disk and keep it separate from your computer or PDA. I keep my updated data information on a back up disk so that in the event my laptop crashes, or just as bad gets stolen, I can access my information from another computer.

Bolt your computer down in your hotel room. I carry a cable wire with lock to secure my laptop in my hotel room. This connects to your computer and wraps around a table leg. I’ve never had any problems with hotel maids or staff but this does add a little extra security when I’m out of the room for the day. Cable locks can be purchased from you favorite computer retailer.

Personalize your equipment. It’s not a bad idea to engrave your name and phone number onto the bottom of you equipment. This may not help you find it in case of robbery but it certainly will help you identify the item if recovered.

You can’t enter without the secret word. I totally agree to have password protection on all your programs especially on your bios booth system. That way, even if anyone turns your computer on, it makes it more difficult for them to easily access your information. It’s better that they trash your machine rather then get your person or business data.

I’m in Montreal working a conference. Whether you’re on vacation or on the road for business, I wish you safe and happy travels.

Aloha,

Al The Only
www.tricky1.com

SPECIAL TRAVEL ADVISORY - August 11, 2006

I fly over 100,000 miles a year around the country performing at company parties, corporate functions and association events. That’s a lot of time in airports and on airplanes. Like many, I was glued to the news as reports came out of the UK regarding the latest terrorism attempt. You have to compliment and appreciate the fine work the UK government displayed to thwart off a potentially disastrous day.

In Hawaii, I fly Aloha Airlines Inter-island to perform at conventions with my “Al Loha - The tourist who missed his flight home and stayed by popular demand” magic and comedy show. I belong to several frequent flier clubs. I want to compliment Aloha Airlines. They were the first airline to send a public notice to help us travelers understand the new travel advisory (reprinted, with permission, below).

When visiting Hawaii check out Aloha Airlines for great rates and wonderful service to fly between the islands.

Aloha,

Al The Only
www.tricky1.com


SPECIAL TRAVEL ADVISORY - August 11, 2006

Aloha,

You may have a trip planned in the near future, and we'd like to inform you about some new security measures that have been implemented effective today.
Due to the heightened security levels recently enacted at our airports, Aloha Airlines has been advised by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) that effective immediately, any liquids or gel-like substances will not be allowed as a carry-on aboard any aircraft. Screening and disposal of such items will take place at the security checkpoints and at the departure gates. Examples of prohibited items include but are not limited to: bottled water, all beverages such as juice and milk, shampoos, toothpaste, perfumes, aerosols, hair gels, oils, lotions and creams.

NO LIQUIDS OR GELS OF ANY KIND WILL BE PERMITTED IN CARRY-ON BAGGAGE. ITEMS MUST BE IN CHECKED BAGGAGE.

Items that fall within this category include:

All beverages of any type in any size container, including:

Bottled water

Shampoo

Suntan lotion

Creams

Toothpaste

Hair gel

Contact lens solution

Other items of similar consistency

Such items may be transported in checked baggage. Exceptions include:

Baby formula or breast milk, only if a baby or small child is traveling

Prescription medicine with a name that matches the passenger's ticket

Insulin and essential other non-prescription medications

Beverages purchased in the sterile area must be consumed before boarding because they will not be permitted onboard the aircraft.

Any item that is liquid or gel-like in form, will only be allowed in the passenger's checked baggage.

Travelers should anticipate longer lines and slower processing by the TSA at the security checkpoints as a result of the additional security measures. Please plan accordingly to assure that you have sufficient time to get to your departure gate to board your flight on time. Passengers are advised to arrive at the airport at least three hours prior to departure for Trans-Pacific flights and two hours prior to departure for Inter-island flights.

Aloha Airlines would also like to advise our customers on steps you can take to ease your travel experience during this period:

Pack lightly, without clutter to facilitate easier screening.

Please arrive three hours prior to scheduled departure time for Trans-Pacific flights and two hours prior for Inter-island flights within Hawaii.

Cooperate with TSA personnel at all checkpoints and gates. TSA Security Officers will also be checking carry-on baggage at the gate.

Be attentive and vigilant to any suspicious activity.

Do not leave luggage or personal items unattended.

Due to these heightened security measures, we ask for your patience and understanding as we work closely with the TSA and our airport authorities to assure your flight's safety.

Further information is available on our website at AlohaAirlines.com/TravelAdvisory or from the TSA's own advisory page found here: TSA Travel Advisory.

Maui Magician for Executive and Corporate Events

Aloha!

This site gives you top resources for magic and comedy entertainment on Maui, Hawaii for corporate events, banquets, welcome receptions, luncheons and executive parties. Whether you're having a cocktail reception on the ocean front or pool side or a dinner party in a hotel ballroom, we have shows to fit your needs.

Island Magic, Incorporated can supply strolling, up-close, close-up sleight-of-hand magic in situations where your party cannot stop for a show. Need a show to add some levity to your after dinner presentation? Island Magic, Inc. has world class magicians, comedians and stage hypnotists ready to entertain you and make your event a successful memory.

We're island wide: Makena, Wailea, Kihei, Kahului, Pukalani, Haiku, Kula, Makawao, Lahaina, Kaanapali, Kapalua and all the way down the road to Hana. The island of Maui is magic in itself. Let us help you make your meeting, convention or retreat fun, exciting and magical.

http://www.al-loha.com

Coming soon, links for Destination Management Companies (DMCs), Party Planners, booking agents, talent agencies, production companies, production houses, concierge services, island activities and incentive travel companies on Maui and all islands of Hawai'i.