Election Results

      Thanks to all of those who volunteered to help in setting up our meeting room and cleaning up afterwards. The greeters will help make visitors feel welcome. Rodney has volunteered to be a backup as newsletter editor or Web Master when needed.

Best Electronic Stores

     The December issue of Consumer Reports rated various electronic stores on a number of factors. The best overall for on-line stores are: Vanns.com, Amazon.com, Newegg.com, Beachcamera.com, Costco.com, JR.com, Buy.com, TigerDirect.com. Last on the list are Walmart.com and BestBuy.com.

      Check-rated walk-in stores: Independents, Apple, Costco, and Ritz Camera. Not checked but rated: Sam's Club, HH Gregg, Sears, Staples, Office Depot, Radio Shack, and Best Buy. Walmart was listed last.
     The library subscribes to Consumer Reports
     I have never heard of some of the stores listed and may be regional. I have ordered from Tiger Direct and visited their store. I was satisfied.
     HH Gregg (Hickory and Gastonia) is small compared to Best Buy, but you can get a good deal on sale items. Walmart has good prices, but know what you're looking for. You can rarely find a knowledgeable clerk. Best Buy is pricy but has sales people who know their products. I have found that they have some prominently displayed name brand items selling for a high price but a cheaper version on a back shelf.
     I have had good luck with customer support at both Staples and Best Buy.
     Before buying, check for reviews online.

Birthdays for January

Sue Brooks, Bill Brooks, Rodney Eaker, Russell Hull, Gerry Leonhardt, Linda Motz, Peggy Norcutt and Maureen Tull.

President's Notes

     Time sure flies. It has been ten years
since our biggest concern was "Will everything crash on New Year's Day, 2000?"
     CUGOL had a good year in 2009. We now have 55 active members. Our meetings have been interesting, and we have learned a lot. I look forward to 2010.
     Thanks to Sue Brooks for cooking the ham and all members who brought special items for the Christmas Party.
     Every one took home a door prize and a 2010 calendar mouse pad.

The Data Byte is the official publication of CUGOL, the Computer Users Group of Lincolnton., Direct comments to:Charles F. Mize   4797 Asbury Church Rd. Lincolnton, NC 28092 Phone 704-735-6433 = Fax 704-735-1899 E-mail editor: charlesfrank2@gmail.com E-mail CUGOL: welcome2cugol@gmail.com Web page: www.cugol.org (CUGOL welcomes anyone with an interest in computers.)