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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Online Florists Could Save Day

Compiled By Bill Sallquist

If Valentine’s Day has snuck up on you and you haven’t gotten your sweetheart an appropriate expression of your true feelings, don’t panic.

There’s still time before the big day on Sunday to duck into the florist shop or candy store or pick out a card with just the right message.

Or you could take the online approach.

Several florists specialize in online orders. But don’t wait too long.

Vendors recommend that you place your order early — today or tomorrow — for the best chance at the rose color of your choice. In fact, sites are likely to quit taking orders guaranteed for holiday delivery several days ahead of the big day.

Here are a few florists who take online orders:

http://www.freshflowersource.com

http://www.1-800-flowers.com

http://www.proflowers.com

http://www.flowerstop.com

* Virtual mechanic: Yahoo has introduced a new feature that uses its unique, hierarchical way of organizing information to create a troubleshooting tool for diagnosing car problems.

Yahoo Autos begins by asking you to choose a symptom — something you hear, see, smell or feel about the car. Then, as you click through the steps, you can find suggestions for what it might be.

For example, a buzzing noise coming from the transmission may mean that your fluid and filter need changing.

http://www.autos.yahoo.com/repair/tree/0.html

* High notes: Can you name an all-time favorite black opera star? How about your favorite country or classical performer who’s African-American? Stumped? Amazon.com can help.

To honor Black History Month, the company is featuring influential, timeless artists, both in traditionally popular categories, like R&B, Rock, Jazz and Gospel, as well as in categories ripe for learning and exploration.

The online retailer’s Black History Month celebration page features 75 key recordings selected in six categories: R&B/Rock; Blues/Gospel; Jazz; Folk/Country; Classical Opera; and Hip Hop. Additionally, one artist will be highlighted on the Amazon.com music home page each day during the month of February.

http://www.amazon.com/black-history

* Forget Resolutions!: Learn how to set goals and stick to them with the help of PHYS, an online personal health service created by CondeNet.

PHYS has tips, solutions and an array of expert information for people who are on a quest for better health.

Web site visitors also may join on-going discussions in the PHYS forums with a health-conscious community.

http://www.phys.com