simplebookmarks.com is live!

A while back, I said I was working on an online bookmarking application. Today, I would like to announce that it has been completed (beta version) and is called simplebookmarks.com. I created this site so that I can easily save bookmarks online. I hope you like it. Internet Explorer is still giving me problems because of its aggressive pop up blocker. But it will work if you hold down the CTRL button and then click on the bookmarklet.

Check out the demo!

New California Hands Free Cell Phone Laws

As of today, July 1st, the new California Driving Cell Phone Law is in effect. Basically, its saying that you cant talk on your cell phone while driving without using some type of hands free device. What I didnt know was that if you are under 18, you cant talk on the cell phone, even with a hands free device...period! I think thats a good thing. In any case, if you are over 18, what will exactly prompt a police officer to pull you over. You can dial on a cell phone and you can use speaker phone, so my guess is that you cannot put your cell phone next to your ear. That will be the key indicator for an officer to cite you. Here are some of my recommendations to avoid getting a cell phone ticket:

1. Car Bluetooth - If your car has it, use it. Its simple and easy. Sound will come through your car speakers. You can even manage your calls using the stereo system or using the GPS touchscreen.
   
   
2. Portable GPS - If you have a portable GPS, it might support your bluetooth phone. Once you connect your phone to the GPS unit, it will act like a speakerphone. But I would only use this option if you use your portable GPS in your car all the time. If you only use your GPS unit sometimes, then I dont think it would be worth it to always have to mount your GPS every single time you want to use it to answer/make phone calls.
   
   
3. Bluetooth Hands Free speaker - Motorola makes this nice hands-free speaker that you strap to your car's visor.
   
   
4. Bluetooth Hands Free earpiece - This is most common nowadays. I tried using one, but mine didnt work very well.
   
   
5. Cell phone speaker - Most cell phones have a speakerphone option, but it doesnt work very well in the car because of surrounding noise.
   
   
6. Keep it simple - Last but certainly not the least. Whichever method you decide, choose one that works best for you. Technology should work for you and not against you. If you find yourself fidgeting around and leaning over to grab the earpiece from your glove compartment everytime someone calls you, it might not be worth it. Let's try to remember why these laws have been passed in the first place. SAFETY! Talking on the cell phone in your car is a convenience. But by talking on the phone, you are sacrificing safety, not only for yourself but others around you.

Official DMV announcement