According to Newsweek magazine, Bonita High School in La Verne ranks in the top 3% of high schools across the country.

This is good news. Hopefully this trend will continue by the time Michelle and Aidan start attending.

Ranking was determined by the number of Advanced Placement, Intl. Baccalaureate and/or Cambridge tests taken by all students divided by the number of graduating seniors.

• Top California Schools
• Top U.S. Schools

No kidding!

I've had individuals track me down at the oddest times of day for either direct computer help or answers to very "Googlible" questions. I've since learned not to tell people that I know either how to fix computers or build them.

I've said it before, I do enjoy helping family members or close friends with their computers. I recall a time not too long ago when 90% of the people I knew did not even own a computer, so for me it's definitely something to appreciate.

In the past, I've encountered problems with referral-type situations or people I barely knew coming to me for help. My main pet-peeve was meeting someone, establishing that I "knew computers", and immediately getting back a "well then, you simply must help me with my computer sometime" remark. Imagine meeting a mechanic at a gathering and immediately asking him to tune-up your car's engine. It's ridiculous. I think people simply aren't willing to pay, or accustomed to paying, for computer troubleshooting or repairs.

Still, the absolute worst type of moocher has got to be the individual who assumes that you're willing to share all your software with them. Sure, why not. "While I'm at it, how about I borrow your truck next time I feel like going on vacation?"

Computer repair can be a very time consuming effort and time is money. Next time someone helps you with your computer remember to return the favor with either a gift certificate, a nice meal, a small gift, etc. You'll be needing their help again very soon. Especially if you don't own a Mac.