Owners Review 2008 Lexus LS 460

The last time I wrote a review about a car was back in 2012. It was my black on black 2012 Hyundai Sonata 2.0T. In most ways, that was a very good car. But I grew bored of it, mostly the lack of steering feel. Great power, looks and value, but not a drivers car. What was a drivers car, was the Honda s2000 that I bought after selling the Sonata.

Adams black Sonata 2.0t
Adams black Sonata 2.0t

The Honda s2000 will always have a special place in my heart. And since writing this, I had to sell it to get the Lexus. But fear not, I have plans to purchase another one, one that someone poured a good $15,000 into to unlock that cars full race potential.

2005 Honda S2000 Silverline
2005 Honda S2000 Silverline
2005 Honda S2000 Silverline
2005 Honda S2000 Silverline

So now I own a 2008 Lexus 460LS. Its black on tan, and has 80,450 miles. It is in very good condition. Well, take a look.

2008 Lexus LS460 2015-01-15 18.04.12

This car is very, very good. In fact, I am really struggling to find a fault. You see, I wanted a luxury car that had some style, but was also reliable. I read into Mercedes, BMW, Audi, Porsche and Infinity. I really liked the Mercedes CLS500, and the E39/E40 BMW M5. But, unfortunately, they both require at times major maintenance as they age, and apart from some exceptions like the E39 BMW, they don’t hold their value. A good 15-20% less then a comparable year and model Lexus.

So once I settled on Lexus I started looking. It was between the IS350 and the LS 460. But once I found a local LS460 car available that was in good shape and had low mileage, I really started to dig into the car. From the YouTube videos to the other car reviews, everyone said positive things. And they are holding their value.

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I have put about 1,000 miles on the car now and I have to say it is very smooth, quiet, and one comfortable car. Its also very fast, and believe it or not, it would destroy my S2000 in 0 to 60 times and highway runs. Also most surprising, considering the 8 cylinders making 390 pounds of torque, and 340 horses, I am getting 24 miles to the gallon.

The remarkable reason that it can get that kind of fuel economy is one, I drive it smooth, and two, it has an 8 speed automatic transmission. That’s one more gear than even a Mercedes S class. And wow its been hard to go from an S2000 that would do 4,000 rpms at 80 to this Lexus, that does it at 1,900 and is whisper quiet.

The interior is exceptional. Everything its laid out well, and is powered. Bluetooth for photo, key-less start and entry and seat adjustments take the cake with me.

2008 Lexus LS 460 Interior
2008 Lexus LS 460 Interior

I am impressed with Lexus. And I am impressed with this car. I have to recommend this car to anyone looking to get into the Luxury market. I did not pay all that much either, less than a new Honda Accord.

The few plans I have for this car are wheels and front LED light additions. That is really all this car needs. A set of 22’s on these Convex wheels would do it for me.

Lexus LS 460 Convex Wheels

This car is also great for business. It says yes I am successful, but I am not screaming it. So far so good.

To more good things in 2015…

Adam Faragalli

 

 

Why I Ride Motorcycles | plus My Picture Timeline Experiences Thus Far

I think when it comes to riding a motorcycle, you either loved it or hated it.  If you have tried, you quickly learned to deal with an army of naysayers, bad drivers and road conditions, so best learn to love riding quickly. And in this hobby, there is no room for error. After all, “motorcycling is not, of itself, inherently dangerous. It is, however, extremely unforgiving of inattention, ignorance, incompetence, or stupidity.”

Doing what you like is freedom, liking what you do is happiness.” Motorcylce Ignorance or stupidty quote

When I was 25, I got the bug to ride. It would be a lie to say that my father was not a large factor, but in the end it was my decision to start. Among many reasons, I heard a quote that inspired me; and while I don’t quite remember that quote word for word, it went something like this: “Am I afraid of dying on a motorcycle, well, in the end, I am more afraid of not truly living.”

They say, “Four wheels moves the body, two wheels moves the soul.”

Continue reading Why I Ride Motorcycles | plus My Picture Timeline Experiences Thus Far

Real Advice About Improving Your Businesses Web Presence

Over the past many years I have written thoughts about so many topics. This blog started as a college blog for social media and digital marketing and then added some of the web’s best financial articles and information.

Recently, making my Tennessee based internet marketing business Titan Web Marketing Solutions thrive has been top priority. I’m proud to say that we are now working with some powerful businesses and have tackled some real challenges in web design, search engine optimization,  graphic design and social media.

This blog is about some of the critical areas of knowledge I have learned in developing a businesses local web presence. 

Please note* “NY Pie” in Nashville, TN was used for specific examples because the owners Greg and Jessica are wonderful people and were great to work with last year.

As of the end of 2012, the business of helping market businesses on the web has boomed. It is so very important to get your business on the web. At the least, it is important to understand where your business is on the web and what, if any, feedback people have provided about your business. And while this guide does not do everything, it will sure help you get started on the right path!

 

The following is a step by step guide to exactly what any business owner needs to do to start their web presence.

 

  • Step number 1   |   Build a Local Web Presence

Continue reading Real Advice About Improving Your Businesses Web Presence

Owners Review 2012 Hyundai Sonata 2.0 Turbo

Dear friends,

Welcome to the 2012 Sonata 2.0 T. I like the Sonata 2.0T so much I am going to share it with you in this post. Although not a perfect car in every regard, for the money, it is the best value on the market. Style, trim, performance and technology all in a new class of “seriously this is how much”? So I bought a black on black 2.0T back in January. And I have never been more pleased with a car.

Adams black Sonata 2.0t
Adams black Sonata 2.0t

I liked it the first time I saw it. It is a good looking car. The designer of the 2012 Hyundai Sonata was the same guy who designed the Mercedes C Series. And yes, if you look at a Mercedes C Series it is pretty obvious the similarities.

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The Powertrain

Continue reading Owners Review 2012 Hyundai Sonata 2.0 Turbo

Republic of Moldova & Camp Delet: A Personal Time-Stamped Journey

July 2nd. 8:00 p.m.

Thoughts on our recent arrival in Chisinau, Moldova.

First Look, Airport at Chisinau
Moldova Countryside
Chisinau Apartments

This is a story about cultural differences between people of The Republic of Moldova and the Americans. Two different cultures, one collective in nature, one individualistic. Two ways of life, one is about survival, another about prosperity.

Yet, the power of the human condition has proven to conquer all. Friendships have evolved, bonds created and memories made; a lasting mark on myself, the American team and the Moldovan people of Belsty that will last a lifetime.

Continue reading Republic of Moldova & Camp Delet: A Personal Time-Stamped Journey

How Electric Cars May Change the Landscape of the Automobile Industry

I am happy to introduce a guest writer Angela Brown from London, an alumni of Oxford. Need more proof that this site attracts visits from all over the world?

Angela contacted me to write an article about financial matters. I though a bit about what may interest my readers. I suggested an article focused around the new Chevy Volt and Nissan Leaf and ultimately how these innovations will change the automobile industry, the financial markets and any other thoughts. Here is what she came back with with some  thoughts of mine interjected. May you too find it interesting. In any case, I’m very excited about these electric/hybrid cars and the changes  they may bring. (changes desperately needed)

How Electric Cars May Change the Landscape of the Automobile Industry.

The introduction of the new electric and plug-in cars is definitely going to have a great impact on the whole of the automobile industry, the associated economy and the stock market. For example, Chevrolet’s Volt and Nissan’s Leaf electric car are the most discussed about cars. The city governments too are bringing in the battery chargers and Obama too has promoted the technology.

Nissan Leaf Plug In Charger Picture
Nissan Leaf Interior Picture
Chevy Volt with Chevy Logo
Chevy Volt Interior Picture
Chevy Volt Interior Picture

Impact of the electric cars

Electric cars can save you money on gasoline. But can they save you money in the big picture? Today’s electric cars are more subsidized and so buyers may be able to get enough tax breaks. For example, the Nissan Leaf – a four-door hatchback car has the base price of around $32,780. However, it is eligible for $7,500 federal tax credit. The Chevy Volt, coming in just over $40,000 also qualifies for this discount. This makes the car cheaper than other vehicles. It is also cheaper than any other electric vehicles in the market. But lets be realistic, $40,000 buys you a nice luxury car from Lexus, Infinity or BMW too. In any case, it is nice to know you may be able to save thousands of dollars from the federal government if you buy an electric car.

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According to Mark Duvall, the director of electric transportation for the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), the price of gas is $4 a gallon but a plug-in hybrid car can save a person about $15,000 to $18,000 over his life, on the assumption that people drive 1,000 to 1,200 miles per month.

Continue reading How Electric Cars May Change the Landscape of the Automobile Industry

All Natural Diet & Supplements that Changed My Life

This is a post that has been some time in the making. On the one account, I could say I have suffered from a case of writers block. I have been writing for over three years on just this site alone. On the other hand, offline life has been really demanding. Call it lack of time, lack of energy, lack of inspiration, it really does not matter what you call it, but lets just say I am trying to write again.

With such a demanding life, realized I needed to make a change in my diet. I also wanted to impact my appearance, but my main goal was to have more energy and been all around healthier. So I went on an all encompassing diet plan and workout program. Please understand, this is not a post where I introduce a brand new workout or diet program. No, this is about what has worked for me from what is already been created by nutrition, supplement, and exercise professionals.

For about the past five years, I have remained a very workout centered individual. I actively attended a gym, lifted weights, did cardio, avoided fast food, and related things. In fact, I actually got into lifting weights, put on about 20 pounds of muscle when the time I graduated college. Still, I’m an endomorph, so for me, it is easier to put on muscle, much harder to burn fat and look lean. An endomorph is someone who is genetically prone to store fat easily due to a slow metabolism. Endomorph body types are usually, but not always, large-framed with medium to large joints.

Naturally, especially for those that know me, I love a challenge. When it suddenly struck me that I desired to take my body to the “next level” of fitness, I knew I needed to make some serious changes. That is exactly what this post is all about.

Continue reading All Natural Diet & Supplements that Changed My Life

2010 Devastating Nashville Flood

I live in Nashville in an area that has been severly hit by some of the worst storms to ever hit the United States. Believe it or not, my area was drenched in 18 1/2 inches of rain over the course of just a few days. I was not even aware this was possible. Nashville is now left with the effects of such extreme weather.

For the past many days, the national media has ignored Nashville for the most part. This is not right! We are in need of assistance and support. I think this interview sums this disaster up very well as well as sharing the media’s ignorance. Please watch the video by clicking on the link below. I tried my best to embed the video but CNN’s program pretty much sucks with wordpress.

Kenny Chesney Talks About the Flood In Nashville

This article on We Are Nashville Section 303 said it well, “The Cumberland River crested at its highest level in over 80 years. Nashville had its highest rainfall totals since records began. People drowned. Billions of dollars in damage occurred. It is the single largest disaster to hit Middle Tennessee since the Civil War. And yet…no one knows about it.

Does it really matter? Eventually, it will…as I mentioned, there are billions of dollars in damage. It seems bizarre that no one seems to be aware that we just experienced what is quite possibly the costliest non-hurricane disaster in American history. The funds to rebuild will have to come from somewhere, which is why people need to know. It’s hard to believe that we will receive much relief if there isn’t a perception that we need it.”

Here is a video that is of a Kroger that I normally shop at, just minutes down the road from me.

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I volunteered my time on Monday where I caught something that had me in bed most of Tuesday and Wednesday. Who knows what it was when you walk through nasty water and get bumps and scraps all over. In addition, I was saddened by the sheer loss many individuals are now faced with.Nightmares and strange dreams happened throughout the week. I helped empty offices, garages, living rooms and kitchens where there was five feet of standing water just hours before I arrived. The fact that this was just a few miles from my place is hard to believe.

Here are some pictures on Flickr of the 2010 Nashville Flood. Have a look and if you are at all familiar with the Nashville area you might be shocked by the flood.

If you would like to donate some of your time here locally, or some funds for the cause, please visit Hands On Nashville.

May god bless this great city I call home. Everyone here knows that we will recover and prosper. Nashville truly is one of America’s best cities because of its people.

An Account of the Worst American Financial Collapse in History

Message from the editor: “Before I officially begin, this is my best attempt at breaking down a very complex financial meltdown with a bi-partisan approach. In other words, the facts are facts and are presented accordingly. It has taken me hours and hours to piece it all together. Conflicting opinions and views are everywhere. I poured through books, videos, articles and contacted individuals first hand. I wanted to learn the truth and share it with my readers, but I had no idea just how complex and surprising my search would eventually reveal. I wanted this to be short enough to read in one sitting but long enough to explain the full story. Thus, I believe all the elements of the big picture of what happened to the American financial system is here. This piece was created and dedicated to those out their who are still unsure what happened and distrust Wall Street. In many ways, I wrote this because there many good individuals working in the financial industry right now. Lastly, I have the highest hopes for America and believe, without a doubt, that this country has a fantastic future ahead. Please enjoy, and comment accordingly.”

Intro:

Sometimes we find ourselves caught in a full blown paradox of beliefs, questions and ultimately change brought on by some need. This is America right now, going through painful change brought by fear. Change is heading into the unknown, the dark abyss. No ones enjoys the painful process of real change. What feels familiar feels good.

Societies since Rome have thrived on the concepts brought by rules. However, like Rome and countless empires the world has known, all have failed. But why? A solid question would be what separates where we are now from where they were then?

The American Dream?

Fact or Opinion- The average middle class American loves the idea of the free market, of pure Capitalism, of the ability to have the America dream? This “dream” has been drilled into our psyche. Many believe it is our right to own land, a home, to raise a family, own a business and give our children a better life than we had. And, if fact, it is.

Is this the real definition of Capitalism? Better yet, could you please point out in the United States Constitution where it states, “America shall have a pure-free-market Capitalistic economy?” Please find where it states capitalism once, because it ain’t there. But, are we finding out the American dream is unattainable, or even worse, unsustainable?

The 1 %

This is also a piece inspired by the wealthiest 1% in America, for whom control the other 95% of America’s wealth combined, and ultimately, the ability to control power on Capitol Hill. This a post that was inspired by greed and the powerful inside individuals in banks, top government regulation committees and law.

However, the fundamental fact here, my main point, is that because we the people can vote, thus we the people have the ultimate power to change who runs our democratic society. Please let me try to explain.

Knowledge, Capitalism and Democracy

Knowledge has forever changed how humans perceive their world and themselves. Knowledge truly is power. Knowledge is the fact or state of knowing; the perception of fact or truth; clear and certain mental apprehension. When one travels down the road of knowledge, especially specific knowledge in specific areas, one can eventually become an expert. Now I am no expert, but I have laid the foundation for sound financial knowledge apprehension.

It is with this foundation I get to my point, our current democracy vs. capitalism.

Like any lawyer, one could argue two sides of this story. For example, most everyone loves the concepts of socialism, of social programs like welfare, social security, medicare, public schools, law enforcement, military protection, etc.

Then there is the other side, with pure capitalism’s free-market financial industry, privatized health care and social services, health insurance and pharmaceuticals, private banking, etc. I can go on.

Greed and Mankind

Gordon Gekko states in “Wall Street” words that practically sum up my two points of this debate. This quote is from Oliver Stone’s 1987 “Wall Street”, “The richest one percent of this country owns half (today more than 95%) our country’s wealth, five trillion dollars. One third of that comes from hard work, two thirds comes from inheritance, interest on interest accumulating to widows and idiot sons and what I do, stock and real estate speculation. It’s bullshit. You got ninety percent of the American public out there with little or no net worth. I create nothing. I own. We make the rules, pal. The news, war, peace, famine, upheaval, the price per paper clip. We pick that rabbit out of the hat while everybody sits out there wondering how the hell we did it. Now you’re not naive enough to think we’re living in a democracy, are you buddy? It’s the free market. And you’re a part of it. You’ve got that killer instinct. Stick around pal, I’ve still got a lot to teach you.”

Gekko is also famous for saying greed is good. “greed, for lack of a better word, is good. Greed is right, greed works. Greed clarifies, cuts through, and captures the essence of the evolutionary spirit. Greed, in all of its forms; greed for life, for money, for love, knowledge has marked the upward surge of mankind. And greed, you mark my words, will not only save Teldar Paper, but that other malfunctioning corporation called the USA.”

I illustrate that quote because in too many ways greed has caused the markets to implode. Yes, it is true that greed in the financial markets has always existed. The market always runs in a sicklicle cycle, bull markets (up) give to bear markets (down), good years turn to poor years. To truly understand how we got to where we are, one really has to go back years and years.

The American Financial Story Begins- years and years ago.

In all honestly, having spoken to a number of people and reading a number of books, I am even hard pressed to say what was the defining element. Truth is, there are several large factors. One could say things like going off the gold standard, complex technology entering into the trading system, quantitative financial theory’s, sub-prime CDO mortgages backed by insurance, Fed Reserve policies, derivatives, deregulation of the banking industry, etc. That about covers it.

Continue reading An Account of the Worst American Financial Collapse in History