Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Holiday Travel Tips

The Holiday season not only brings thanks and joy, it also brings backed up traffic and frustrated travelers.  Remember to stay calm and do not stress out while driving.  Avoid distractions and always keep your focus on the road.
Furthermore, we all know that the roads are not the only place to get caught up.  Air travel can be a nightmare, so take a look at these great tips below from ABC News to help your Thanksgiving travel plans run as smoothly as possible.

Seven Tips for Smooth Thanksgiving Travel
By SCOTT MAYEROWITZ
Nov. 22, 2010

Traveling this Thanksgiving? Expect the roads and airports to be significantly more crowded than last year, thanks in part to an improving economy.

Roughly 42.2 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles from their home this holiday, according to AAA. That's 11.4 percent more than last year.

To help avoid car trouble and unnecessary delays during holiday travel, AAA recommends drivers check their tire treads, tire pressure, wiper blades and battery connections.

While the vast majority of those travelers will be driving, it's those who take to the skies that often deal with the most headaches and heartache. Sure, nobody likes bumper-to-bumper traffic, but would you rather be stuck in traffic in your car or having airport security do a thorough pat-down of your privates?

Besides, it seems that every year the rules of the airport change ever so slightly. (Most people drive every day and the rules of the road really don't change.)

And for fliers, there is some good news: the government is once again opening up some military air space to help speed commercial flights.

Stay Up to Date on the Latest Travel Trends from ABC News on Twitter

So with all that in mind, we reached out to Genevieve Shaw Brown, senior editor at Travelocity to answer seven commonly-asked questions about flying during Thanksgiving.

#1: May I Bring My Turkey?

The short answer here is yes, though you might get some strange looks at security. Keep in mind, however, your turkey (or whatever other food you bring on the aircraft) must be part of your carry-on luggage and must not take up more than the free one bag and one carry-on item allotted by every domestic airline except Spirit (which charges for carry-on luggage). Remember, though, that the TSA still allows no more than 3 ounces of liquid in any one container, so your turkey cannot be soaking in brine, getting itself ready for dinner at grandma's house.


#2: How Long Do I Really Need to Get Though Security?


Provided you have checked in online before your flight (see question three), you can arrive at security one hour before your domestic flight and most likely be just fine. But, just to be on the safe side, you might want to leave yourself an extra half-hour during a busy travel weekend like Thanksgiving. If you choose not to check in online, arrive at the airport at least two hours before your departure time to be ready for long lines at the check-in counter, which are in addition to the lines at security. Arrive at the airport two hours before all international flights.


#3: How Do I Make Sure I Don't Get Bumped From My Flight?


There is no guaranteed way to avoid getting bumped, but there are certainly ways to minimize your chances. First and foremost, reserve a seat when you purchase your flight online, rather than letting one be randomly assigned to you at a later date. Next, check in online on your carrier's website up to 24 hours before your flight. Often, when a flight is oversold and no one is willing to give up their seat, the airline will bump the person or people who checked in last. Finally, get to the gate as early as possible (see question two; this is when that extra half-hour might come in handy) and reconfirm your seat with the gate agent.


#4: What If I Miss My Connection?


Typically when you miss a connection, the airline just puts you on the next flight to your destination. During a peak travel period like Thanksgiving, however, that might not be so simple because planes are flying very full and you'll have to wait for a flight with an available seat. The easiest way to not miss a connection is to book a direct flight in the first place. If that's not possible, leave a minimum of two hours to make your connecting flight to protect against any delays on the first leg of your trip.

If you've already purchased your flight and you're worried the connecting time is too tight, visit your airport's website to see a map of the airport to get a lay of the land. Then ask your flight attendant on your first flight to tell you what gate your next flight is using. This can save you several minutes of searching for your gate. Finally, if you do miss your connection and it looks as if it is going to be a while before the airline finds you an empty seat to your destination, it's time to be flexible. Be willing to travel to airports near your destination -- for example, Fort Lauderdale instead of Miami, or Charleston instead of Savannah -- if there are empty seats.


#5: What Should I Keep With Me in Case We Get Stranded on the Tarmac?


It is very unlikely that you'll get stranded on the tarmac. However, make sure you're prepared for the worst-case scenario over Thanksgiving weekend and every other time you fly. Keep on your person at all times a fully charged cell phone, all medications, water (purchased post-security) and a snack. If you're traveling with children, make sure they have formula (this is an exception to the TSA liquid rule), diapers and activities to keep them amused. Bottom line -- if you can't live without it, don't put it in your checked luggage, because once it's checked you're not going to see it again until you get to your destination.

#6: Can I Bring Gifts Along?

Yes, but be aware that wrapped gifts may be opened at security. Use gift bags or wait until you arrive at your destination before wrapping presents. And of course, anything you carry on the plane counts towards your allotted one carry-on bag and one personal item.

#7: How Much Will It Cost My Family to Check Our Bags?

That, of course, depends on how many bags you check. Most airlines charge $25 for the first checked bag and $35 for the second on domestic flights. Exceptions are JetBlue, which allows one free checked bag, and Southwest, which allows two. Generally speaking, a family of four, each checking one bag, will pay a total of $200 round-trip in bag charges. Some airlines offer small discounts -- usually $3 per bag -- if you pay online before your flight.

Your bag must not weigh more than 50 pounds or measure more than 62 inches. Otherwise, it will be subject to overweight and/or oversized bag fees. On international flights, you're often allowed to check one bag free of charge, but check your carrier's website for specifics.

Keep in mind that every ticketed passenger (including a small child) is entitled to one regulation-size carry-on bag and one personal item for free, except on Spirit. Regulation size is generally 45 linear inches or less; you can figure this number out by adding the width plus the length plus the height.

http://abcnews.go.com/Travel/thanksgiving-holiday-travel-tips-traffic-flight-delays-ruin/story?id=12195296

Friday, November 12, 2010

Preparing For Winter Weather Driving

Via MattarMedia - The morning frost on your windshield, the air turning crisp, the sky becoming darker on your drive home from work... like it or not, winter is on its way.  Shivering cold weather is just around the corner which means it is time to start preparing your car for winter driving.

From tire inspection to battery checks, the below list of tips from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration will help you keep track of what needs to be done before Old Man Winter comes to town.
  • Get your car serviced to check for any leaks, bad hoses or other needed part repairs or replacements that could leave you stranded in bad weather. If you plan on using snow tires, install them now.
  • Make sure your battery has enough power to start your car in cold weather. When the temperature drops, so does battery power.
  • Check your cooling system for leaks and for the proper amount of coolant to avoid freezing. If your system hasn't been flushed for several years, have it done to ensure effectiveness. Fill up on wiper fluid and inspect your windshield wipers and defrosters to maintain the best visibility possible.
  • Inspect your tires for cracks and tread that is worn below 1/16 of an inch. Make sure your tire pressure is at recommended PSI (pounds per square inch) levels, which is listed in your owner's manual and on the inside of the driver's door.
  • Know your car and how it handles on wet, icy or snowy roads. Take the time to learn how to best drive it during winter weather.
  • Plan your travel and route by checking weather, road conditions and traffic. Allow extra driving time in bad weather, and keep your gas tank full.
  •  Stock your vehicle with emergency items like a shovel, broom, blankets, sand, ice scraper and jumper cables. Make sure you have your cell phone, water, food and any necessary medicine for longer trips.
For more information, visit safercar.gov

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

Get Some "Sweet" Deals in the Buffalo Area

NEWS BUSINESS REPORTER
Updated: November 10, 2010, 6:46 AM

The Buffalo News has launched a new Web site that provides a different deal each day at local restaurants, stores and events. 

Each morning, SweetFind.com e-mails those registered with the site an offer of discounts of 50 percent to 90 percent off the regular prices. Tuesday, the inaugural deal from SweetFind.com offered $20 in vouchers for Paula’s Donuts on Kenmore Avenue in Buffalo for $9. The site accepts payment only by credit card. 

With the launch, Sweet- Find.com joins a fast-growing segment of Internet marketing that already includes sites such as Groupon.com, Livingocial. com and SocialBuy.com in the Buffalo Niagara region. 

The daily deal site also is a way for The News to broaden the advertising and marketing services it offers clients, both through the newspaper and the Internet, said Emily Lowrey, The News’ director of online operations. 

“Newspapers, obviously, are looking for ways to diversify,” she said. “This is one component of a complete media mix we can offer our customers.” 

Daily deal sites are a relatively new phenomenon, but they have succeeded in attracting millions of consumers across the country. Groupon, for instance, has 20 million subscribers in the 230 markets where it operates and this week was reported to be seeking venture capital funding that would value the 2-year-old business at $3 billion. 

Like the other such bargain sites, SweetFind each weekday will offer one deal that will expire at midnight, or possibly earlier if the limited-quantity offer sells out, Lowrey said. Friday deals will be available throughout the weekend or until they sell out. 

While the deals are available only for 24 hours, the vouchers purchased through the Sweet- Find site typically don’t expire for six months to a year. 

The daily deal site allows advertisers to reach out to new consumers, attracting them to their businesses with deep discounts in hopes that they then will become regular customers, Lowrey said.
Consumers can sign up to receive SweetFind’s exclusive coupon at SweetFind.com.

drobinson@buffnews.com

Friday, November 5, 2010

WNY Is On the Rise!

Who doesn't love hearing great success stories about Western New York?  Local WNY companies are making it big according to Forbes' list of the top private companies in the United States.

Check out this article from Buffalo Business First! -


WNY companies rise on Forbes list 
Business First 
Date: Friday, November 5, 2010, 8:04am EDT
 
A list of the country’s top private companies published by Forbes has a Western New York flavor. Four companies based in Buffalo and Rochester made the list — Wegmans, Rich Products Corp., Bausch & Lomb and Delaware North Cos. — and each improved their standing from last year.

Wegmans, at No. 55, placed highest among the locals, rising from 74th in 2009. The Rochester grocer, which has a prominent business in Buffalo, had revenue of $5.15 billion, up 7.2 percent and an employment roll of nearly 38,700, Forbes said.

Rich Products Corp. climbed to No. 137 from 161 on revenues of $2.9 billion, an increase of 3.5 percent. The Buffalo-based food manufacturer employs some 7,500 workers.

Another Buffalo company, Delaware North Cos., was ranked at No. 204, up from No. 219. The publication said revenue declined 2.2 percent to $2.15 billion. The concessions’ company has 50,000 workers.

In between Rich Products and Delaware North was Bausch & Lomb, the medical appliances and equipment of Rochester. B&L placed at No. 171, compared to No. 189 last year, on revenue of $250 million and 11,000 employees.

The full list can be found here.
Read more: WNY companies rise on Forbes list | Business First

LINK to article:
http://www.bizjournals.com/buffalo/news/2010/11/05/wny-companies-rise-on-forbes-list.html 

Monday, November 1, 2010

William Mattar Law Offices Holds Food Drive for Clarence Food Pantry

Here at William Mattar Law Offices not only do we enjoy working hard for those injured in car accidents, we also love giving back to our local community.  We will be holding a food drive to benefit the Clarence Food Pantry beginning this Wednesday, November 3rd.  Items will be collected up until 5:00pm on Friday, November 12th.

Every little bit helps, so please stop by our office at 6720 Main Street in Williamsville to donate.  Below is a list of items that are needed most:
  • Paper products (plates, towels, napkins, tissues)
  • Laundry detergent
  • Cleaning products
  • Pasta sauce
  • Canned frosting
  • Canned corn
  • Spaghetti O's and Chef Boyardee
  • Frozen turkeys*
*If you would like to donate a frozen turkey please do so on November 12th, the last day of the food drive.
ATTORNEY ADVERTISING

Disclaimer / Terms and Conditions

This website is designed to provide general information. The information provided is not intended to offer legal, medical, or insurance advice, nor should any legal or other action be taken based on the information contained on these Web pages, or any of its links. Laws, rules, and regulations vary widely among different states, and even within states exceptions may exist. Contact an attorney, medical professional, or insurance professional licensed in your state before taking any legal or other action.

Neither the viewing of nor the transmitting from this website constitutes an attorney-client relationship, nor does it constitute legal advice to any person viewing the information therein. Any communications, including confidential information sent via the Internet or e-mail, could be intercepted, read, or redirected by persons other than the intended recipient. If you communicate through this website, be advised that the communications may not be considered privileged and confidential.

You should not act or rely on any information in this site. Each person’s legal needs are unique, and you should ask an attorney directly to assess your specific needs. You should also be aware that there are time limitations and notice requirements that may affect any potential claim you have.

While reasonable steps have been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information on this website, our firm does not make any express or implied representations or warranties about the accuracy or completeness of the information contained on the site nor any of the supplied links.

The content of this website or of the website links is not guaranteed to be up and available at all times.

The material supplied or linked to does not necessarily reflect the opinions of this firm or any of its attorneys, staff, or clients. Each person’s needs are unique and these materials may not be appropriate for your or anyone’s specific situation.

Our principal office is located in Williamsville, New York. We have satellite locations throughout the state of New York to meet with clients and potential clients. File management and case work may be prepared at the principal office or at other locations.

Our lawyers are licensed in New York state. We also have lawyers who can practice in Federal Courts, including the United States Supreme Court. We have access to lawyers who are licensed to practice law in other states. In some other jurisdiction, this website may be considered advertising. The hiring of an attorney is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisement. Before you decide to retain us, obtain free information about our firm by visiting our website or call us at 1-800-317-2424. Our attorneys do not wish to represent anyone desiring representation based on viewing this site or any of its material in a state or location where this website fails to comply with the ethical or professional responsibility rules and/or laws of that state or location.

This site’s contact form and other electronic communication may be sent by Internet e-mail, which is not secure. You should not send sensitive or confidential information via this site or by e-mail unless you are aware that it is adequately encrypted.

By submitting a contact form, you understand and agree to the following: your case may be evaluated by an attorney; You may be contacted by a represenative of the firm about this matter and the submission of your information in no way constitutes an attorney-client relationship.

By contacting this firm by telephone, text message, submitting a quick contact or free consultation form, you consent to being called at the telephone number provided, to speak with the person that answers the telephone or leave a voice message, and provide information including identifying that we are responding to a contact to this firm and you agree that we may leave a return telephone number to call. You also, consent to this firm contacting you by other means in response to your contact and such communication may include promotional information.

Not all inquiries are responded to or accepted as cases. This law firm can not serve you as attorney in any matter unless you and our firm expressly agree in writing to the extent of the representation. Therefore, you should assume that this firm does not represent you and is taking no action on your behalf to protect your case or your rights unless you have signed a retainer with this firm AND, thereafter, receive written communication from this law firm specifying that we are handling your matter.

Some prior significant results were obtained by using a team of attorneys, including of counsel, other counsel, and/or staff attorneys. Each case rests on its own facts, including liability, damages, and means of recovery, making million dollar results atypical. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Any results and/or experience mentioned pertains to the law firm as a whole and not to any one of the firm’s lawyers, unless one of the lawyers is specified.

Any reference to William Mattar, William K. Mattar, Office of William Mattar, Law Office of William Mattar, the William Mattar Law Firm, or any like or similar reference should be construed to mean and make reference to William K. Mattar, P.C. and not to the individual lawyer William K. Mattar, Esq., unless the specific context of the text or reference specifies William K. Mattar, Esq.

William K. Mattar, P.C. designates the attorney and principal officer responsible for this website as William K. Mattar, Esq., William K. Mattar, P.C., 6720 Main Street, Suite 100, Buffalo, NY 14221, 716-633-3535.

Videos, graphics and / or photographs on this site are, or may, contain dramatizations.

The law firm is designed to have lawyers, staff or representatives on call 24 hours a day, yet, from time to time for planned or unplanned reasons this firm or it's representatives may not be available.

COPYRIGHT All copyright text and graphics, the original selection, arrangement, and presentation of all materials (including in the public domain), and the overall design of this website are Copyright 2007 William K. Mattar, P.C. reserved.

Permission is granted to download and print materials from the website for the purpose of viewing, reading, and retaining for personal reference. Any other copying, distribution, retransmission, or modification of information or material on site, whether in electronic or hard copy form, without the express prior written permission of William K. Mattar, P.C. is strictly prohibited.

PRIVACY STATEMENT William K. Mattar, P.C. has created the following privacy statement to demonstrate our commitment to informed disclosure and to accurately communicate our use of your personally identifiable information. Information Gathered/Use of Information The William K. Mattar, P.C. website uses online forms for visitors to request information or a contact form from William K. Mattar, P.C. When you fill out one of these online contact forms on the website, you may be asked to provide certain personal information, including your name, home or other address, e-mail address, and phone numbers. After you fill out and submit this form, your message is automatically forwarded to William K. Mattar, P.C., attorneys, or legal assistants, and your contact information may be saved in a database. By submitting your contact information to William K. Mattar, P.C., you are authorizing this law firm and personnel on staff to use this information to contact you and/or to send you promotional information.