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Since October 1995, Vesta Stevenson and Terry Baker have been issuing an email newsletter for those ex Air Canada types who have provided us with their email addresses. The Newsletter was created by Vesta, who gave the name 'NetLetter' and added 'Between Ourselves' - a TCA periodical with which you are probably familiar with from the 50's and 60's. It was then changed to "Between Yourselves" to avoid confusion when "Horizons" resurrected the name. Then finally simplified to just "The NetLetter".

We believe that our NetLetter, which originates from Vancouver Island, was the FIRST to use this medium to disperse information for retirees of Air Canada.

The NetLetter contains airline related information such as anecdotes or stories supplied by some of the recipients, Internet tips, travel news, cheap... excuse me, "inexpensive" accommodations, tours, interline travel, and, in some small way, we help keep our Air Canada family together and in touch.

Our 'NetLetter' is NOT sponsored by any Pionair group, nor are we seeking any financial support, only the Internet email addresses of those who would like to receive our 'NetLetter'. Please forward this to other retirees who can then subscribe right from the forwarded link at the bottom of this email.

Sorry, we're late this week! (or early for next week).

For our new readers

We now estimate that the NetLetter is read by over 2700 retirees when counting our email distribution and those that print the NetLetter and give them out to their friends.

To get in touch with either the Editor/Pilot or Co- Pilot our email address is still This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

To make changes to your e-mail address or to unsubscribe, please see the links at the bottom of the page for "Update Profile/Email address" and SafeUnsubscribe. This is now automated so that you can remove yourself from the list or change your email address (or name) without our assistance. We will still do this manually if you have any difficulties.

Many of our members are having difficulty finding these links. You will need to scroll to the bottom of the page, the link in similar to the following image. (The image below doesn't work but your links at the bottom will).

Thank you

Alan Rust - ACFamily Administrator

How You Can Keep Your Laptop and Its Contents Secure

A laptop computer is an essential tool, but it also creates all kinds of security problems. Here is what you need to know to set up basic laptop security.

There Are Two Levels of Laptop Security

First, we'll discuss securing your actual laptop hardware against theft. Second, we will talk about making sure the information on your laptop is more secure. We'll also give you three tips to increase your chances of getting a stolen laptop back.

Five Keys to Preventing Laptop Theft

Imagine: One minute it's there, and the next minute it's gone. In the blink of an eye, your laptop has been stolen.

Think of your laptop as $1,000 in cash. Would you leave that much cash sitting on a table unprotected? In the front seat of a car? In an unattended office or hotel room?

A few weeks ago, a colleague had his laptop stolen in church! In addition to the laptop itself, he lost a lot of work that hadn't yet been properly backed up.

Five Ways to Prevent Your Laptop From Being Stolen

1. Get a cable lock. Almost all laptops come equipped with a Universal Security Slot that allows you to attach the laptop to a heavy or unbreakable object. Cables cost less than $50 and can be found in any technology supply store. Use it in places like hotel rooms, conference rooms, airport waiting areas, and libraries.

2. Use a docking station. If you have a lot of visitors, contractors, or housekeeping staff coming through your office, locking your laptop into a docking station is a good idea.

3. Lock the laptop in a filing cabinet or other secure, out-of-sight location when you leave the office.

4. When traveling with your laptop, don't carry it in a computer case. This makes you an obvious target for laptop thieves. Get a padded sleeve and carry your laptop in a regular briefcase or a backpack instead.

5. Be especially cautious in airports. Don't put your laptop down or let it out of your sight through security checkpoints.

There are many two-person scams involving one person creating a distraction while another calmly walks away with your laptop. Use a buddy system whenever possible, so one person can go through security, and then receive both laptops while you go through security.

Eight Keys to Prevent Data Theft

Now, let's talk about keeping the data on your laptop secure. Besides the financial cost of getting a laptop stolen, this can be the real blow for many people.

Imagine losing all your contacts, your calendar, your Word and Excel documents, years of digital photos -- whatever you value on your computer. And if you have confidential information or trade secrets on your laptop, then you have even greater security concerns.

Here are eight ideas to help prevent data loss or theft:

1. The most basic advice is to regularly back up all of the important data on your laptop hard drive. DVD burners make this easy to fit on one disc, so get in the habit of doing it regularly. Use a thumb drive in between for backups.

2. Disable the Guest account in Windows. It's also a good idea to assign it a long string of random numbers as a password, just for good measure.

3. Many hackers will try to log in to a Windows laptop using the Administrator account. Rename this account with something that does not look obvious. Some have even set up a dummy Administrator account as well.

4. Modify your laptop so that the last username used to log on is not displayed in the logon dialog box.

5. Don't set your laptop to automatically log into websites, and don't save passwords on your laptop to make login easier. Otherwise, a thief who has stolen your laptop can easily log into your accounts.

6. It's possible for someone to access your files even without touching your computer. One way to stop this is to disable the infrared port on your computer.

In addition, be careful about using Wi-Fi access. If you don't know what Wi-Fi is (or you are unclear about W-Fi Internet hotspots which we discuss below), we've created a page that briefly explains Wi- Fi and hotspots:
==} www.scambusters.org/wifi.html

With unencrypted Wi-Fi, every password, email message, and Web page can be read by any other user on that Wi-Fi network. That means you should only use secure (encrypted) email and should never enter a password or confidential information on a webpage over Wi-Fi unless it is a secure connection. (If you don't know what that means, then don't use email and don't enter private information from your browser when using Wi-Fi.)

For more info on the problems with using Wi-Fi Internet access, visit our article on evil twin problems:
==} www.scambusters.org/eviltwin.html

7. Add Spoofstick to your browser. It helps you identify bogus websites. For more info, visit:
==} www.scambusters.org/spoofstick.html

8. Use data encryption whenever possible. This is for more advanced users. For more info, here's an interesting article:
==} http://ask- leo.com/how_can_i_keep_d...top_secure.html

For Mac Powerbook users: consider setting your Powerbook's Open Firmware Password. For more info, visit:
==} www.apple.com/support/downlo...repassword.html

You Can Increase Your Chances of Getting Your Stolen Laptop Back

If your laptop is stolen, there are three simple things you can do to help increase the odds (at least a little) that you get it back.

1. Record your serial number in a separate location. You will need this to prove ownership of any recovered laptop. This is also important if you file an insurance claim.

2. Register your hardware with the manufacturer. You can contact them if your laptop is stolen, so if the thief ever sends it in for repair, you will be notified.

3. Put a tamper resistant metal asset tag on your computer. This will help police track down the legal owner.

In closing, a laptop computer is certainly an important -- and often mission critical -- asset. Be sure to protect yours by following these tips. In fact, we recommend you take action right now to improve your computer laptop security.

Some North Stars operated by Trans-Canada Air Lines were named. Some of the names were - Jacques Cartier, Samuel de Champlain (CF-TFC), Edward Cornwallis (CF-TFB), Probisher (CF-TFE), and Alexander Selkirk.

Eleven North Stars were sold to Overseas Aviation (UK) and five sold to Lineas Aeras Unidas of Mexico.

--> CIA RELEASES ITS LATEST FACTBOOK UPDATE

The Central Intelligence Agency's World Factbook has been updated. This book includes a lot of information about individual countries.

Each entry includes a map and short description of the country's background. There are seemingly endless details on each country's economy, geography, demography, etc. Really, if you need a quick refresher on a particular country, this is the place to look.

The Factbook is intended for government use. But it is available to everyone. Check it out at: www.cia.gov/cia/publications/factbook/index.html

.

Help!
Going to England in July--Can anyone suggest a reasonable priced accommodation in the Heathrow (LHR) area. Thanks This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The US government on Thursday took over pension plans covering flight attendants and other workers at United Airlines, a move that may trigger a strike by the flight attendants.

United Airlines is said to be on track to emerge from Chapter 11 in the autumn even as it faces a potentially crippling strike going into a heavily traveled holiday weekend

Singapore Airlines will raise its fuel surcharge to USD$45 from USD$30 per ticket on some flights effective July 20, 2005 to cover higher operating costs as a result of a sharp rise in the price of jet fuel.

Holy Cow!
Recently, an Air France passenger jet with more than 190 people on board struck a cow shortly after landing at the coastal city of Port Harcourt in Nigeria,

This magnificent tour includes one night in Johannesburg, two nights Mpumalanga and one night back in Johannesburg. The Open Safari Vehicle with extra high seating will provide an excellent view. Most meals are included.
Arrivals are on Sundays, Wednesdays or Fridays. This tour is limited to a maximum of ten people for a more personalized experience.
Our Price: from $649 pp dbl
Don't miss the chance to go to Africa on this small intimate tour. Three weeks advice notice is required for reservations.
Sincerely,
Aero-Marine Interline
email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
phone: 800-255-2376
web: www.aero-marine.com
The African Rand can change dramatically. This price is subject to change according to the exchange rate. Rates do not change after payment is made.

Caesar Hotels Airway Vacations Cruise Specials - Absolutely No Service Charges! As of July 1, 2005

Carnival Imagination Aug. 25 4 Day Miami Western Caribbean From $130*

Carnival Triumph Sept. 1 4 Day New York Canada/N. England From $170*

Carnival Fascination Aug. 12 3 Day Miami Bahamas From $170*

Carnival Elation Oct. 30 7 Day Galveston Western Caribbean From $200*

Carnival Inspiration Aug. 29 5 Day Tampa Western Caribbean From $210*

NCL Dream Sept. 22 7 Day Seattle/LA Pacific Coastal From $229*

Carnival Sensation Sept. 5 5 Day New Orleans Western Caribbean From $233*

RCCL Majesty of the Seas Sept. 23 3 Day Miami Bahamas From $170*

Carnival Paradise Aug. 26 3 Day Long Beach Baja Mexico From $260*

Carnival Glory Sept. 3 7 Day Pt. Canaveral Eastern Caribbean From $368*

Carnival Legend Aug. 25 8 Day New York Eastern Caribbean From $460*

Carnival Conquest Aug. 21 7 Day New Orleans Western Caribbean From $470*

RCCL Vision of the Seas Sept. 9 7 Day Seward Southbound Alaska From $499*

Carnival Liberty Oct. 24 16 Day Rome/FLL Transatlantic From $550*

Carnival Liberty April 23, 06 14 Day FLL/Rome Transatlantic From $550*

RCCL Voyager of the Seas Sept. 4 5 Day New Jersey Bermuda From $649*

RCCL Grandeur of the Seas Sept. 2 9 Day Baltimore Caribbean From $699*

RCCL Jewel of the Seas Sept. 12/22 10 Day Boston Bermuda/Caribbean From $799*

Sydney, Australia 6 Days/ 4 Nights with interline air from $560*
Companion eligible!

Stay in the heart of Sydney and discover this world class city as the locals do. Add an excursion to the Outback, the Great Barrier Reef and so much more. Our Shoestring Package includes rt space available air, 4 nights hotel accommodations and hotel taxes. Ask about confirmed space options and tours. Airline taxes are additional. *per person based on double occupancy
Additional nights and tours in and around Sydney also available!

Ireland Castle Package Special! The Emerald Castle Package for only $399* per person.
Land Only Nov. 1 through March 31, 2006 Includes:
1st Night pre booked hotel
4 Nights Farmhouse B&B's
1 Night Adare Manor, 5* Luxury Castle, Co. Limerick Full Irish Breakfast daily
Standard 3 door economy car with unlimited mileage Waterford Crystal Factory Guided Tour & 10% discount on purchases
Need Airfare? Call today.
Enjoy freedom and flexibility in the Emerald Isle with a final night in ultimate luxury
800 422 3727 Call today


Interline World Vacations - -
---- NO PROCESSING/BOOKING FEE ----

Interline Specials - July 1, 2005
Holland America has introduced reduced rates on Panama Canal cabins including new inside cabins on their Panama Canal/Amazon cruises. New this week you will find interline Hawaii, Mexican Riviera and Western Caribbean cruises. Uniworld has also introduced new Grand European River Cruise pricing.

====================================
FEATURE - HOLLAND AMERICA CRUISING
====================================
Holland - America - Zaandam - Sep 24 for 18 Nights Fall Panama Canal from Vancouver Starting in Vancouver with stops in Seattle, Pacific Ocean, San Diego, Cabo San Lucas, Perto Vallarta, Santa Cruz Huatulco, Puntarenas, Cruising Golfo Dulce, Panama Canal, Cartagena, Caribbean Sea, George Town, Fort Lauderdale.
Inside: $1599 USD, Oceanview: $1799 USD

Holland - America Veendam - Sep 25 for 34 Nights Panama Canal & Amazon River from Vancouver Starting in Vancouver with stops in Seattle, Pacific Ocean, Los Angeles, Cabo San Lucas, Acapulco, Santa Cruz Huatulco, Puerto Caldera, Cruising Golfo Dulce, Panama Canal, Caribbean Sea, Oranjestad, St George's, Atlantic Ocean, Crossing The Equator, Santarem, Boca Da Valeria, Manaus, Parintins, Bridgetown, Half Moon Cay, Gulf Of Mexico, Tampa. Inside: $2799 USD,Oceanview: $4299 USD

Volendam - Sep 28 for 18 Nights
Fall Panama Canal from Vancouver
Starting in Vancouver with stops in Seattle, Pacific Ocean, San Francisco, Cabo San Lucas, Acapulco, Santa Cruz Huatulco, Puntarenas, Cruising Golfo Dulce, Panama Canal, Cartagena, Caribbean Sea, Half Moon Cay, Fort Lauderdale.
Inside: $1499 USD, Oceanview: $1699 USD

For information and reservations, please call 1-866- 279-8480

The mailing and formating of the NetLetter for HTML format is provided by the ACFamily Network and Nerds On Site. Content is researched and submitted by Vesta Stevenson and Terry Baker. Thank you for letting us into your homes!

(From the ACFamily Network)

I have found in talking to many retirees recently that some feel that they are "too old" to worry about data backup, or that this tool is used only for businesses. Hogwash!

As retirees (and baby boomers) you now belong to one of the biggest growing numbers of Internet and computer users. You've heard about the two inevitable things that you can count on is "death and taxes". Well you can also add "Hard Drive Failure".

I work with a company, (Nerds On Site), that regularly encounter people, every day, from all walks of life, who have the misfortune of losing their precious data, and it's not always businesses, it's people like you and me. They lose pictures of their children and grandchildren taken with digital cameras that are stored on their computer. Email addresses and email from their loved ones, tax information from Quicken or Simply Accounting, their "favorites" for surfing the net. etc.

There is no longer an excuse for losing all this data. Please take a minute and check out the "Nerds Data Deposit Box" at the link below, it's easy, it's dependable and it's very affordable. (30 day free trial)

Sincerely,

Alan Rust
The ACFamily Network

Most Internet users are familiar with Adobe Acrobat Reader. When web sites (and email lists) wish to share files with their readers it is not practical to have them download files that they are not able to open or which could be infected by viruses.

To solve this problem, Adobe Software provides a "Free" reader to allow anyone that downloads their viewer to read these files.

Click on the "Adobe Reader 7.0" image to download your free copy of Adobe Reader. Instructions for installing it are found using the link below. (The NetLetter does not provide support for installing the reader, but Nerds On Site do.) See the links to them on the left panel.

The archives of the NetLetter are kept on the ACFamily Network Forums area. They are in plain text format so you can print them from there if desired. If you are not a member of the ACFamily Network yet, we encourage you to join us there. Non members can Register here. (It's Free!)