The art of gift giving: it's time to give a gift to another person who has everything. You could leave it to an assistant or personal shopper, of course, and take your chances. Or, you can read our foolproof guide and find the perfect gift with a personal touch.FOR THE SPORTS FANATIC IN YOUR LIFE Let's start with the obvious: golf. Although golf may be the #1 sport of corporate executives, it can be tricky when it comes to giving gifts. Golf preferences tend to be very personal, especially when it comes to clubs. If you are set on giving clubs, stick with putters or wedges, or a hybrid such as the one used by British Open champ Todd Hamilton William Todd Hamilton (born October 18, 1965) is an American professional golfer. Hamilton was born in the small west-central Illinois city of Galesburg. He grew up in an even smaller Henderson County town on the Mississippi called Oquawka. . But there are plenty of other options that are sure to please your duffer pals. The most innovative products to hit the golf market this year are not clubs, but golf bags and covers, according to according to prep. 1. As stated or indicated by; on the authority of: according to historians. 2. In keeping with: according to instructions. 3. Nina Renaud, principle of Corporate Golf, a pro shop based in Durham, N.C., that caters to corporate clients. Her top picks include Ogio's new Stinger II cart bag. It's designed to hook securely to the back of the golf cart, tipping the bag at a slight angle so that clubs are more accessible--no more yanking or struggling to get your clubs--without sacrificing the cutting-edge style that Ogio is known for. The Stinger II retails for about $280. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] She also singles out Sun Mountain's new Atlas travel cover, which combines the protection of a hard cover with the convenience of a soft cover. The Atlas, which retails for about $200, has a hard top and bottom, and a telescoping rod that prevents compression that might damage club shafts. Its soft sides allow it to be folded up for easy storage. "It's a wonderful gift for someone who travels," says Renaud. Do you know someone who's less Tiger Woods  Editing of this page by unregistered or newly registered users is currently disabled. and more, well, in the woods? For that special pal, consider Hammacher Schlemmer's glasses designed especially for finding balls in tall grass or shaded woods. The stylish frames have special lenses that block out greens and browns, while letting whites and yellows shine through, so golf balls pop in the visual field. Available for $39.95 at Hammacher Schlemmer stores or by calling 800-321-1484. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] Whether or not you're a novice or an ace on the greens, Ken Venturi Ken Venturi (born May 15, 1931) was a prominent PGA Tour professional during the late 1950s and early 1960s. Venturi was born in San Francisco, California. Venturi first gained national attention in 1956 when, as an amateur, he finished second in that year's Masters after Golf Academies is always something really special. Learn Venturi's famous "fundamental swing system" while building trusted relationships with your clients. It's an experience you or a lucky client won't forget. Venturi venturi a tube with a decrease in the inside diameter that is used to increase the flow velocity of the fluid and thereby cause a pressure drop; used to measure the flow velocity (a venturimeter) or to draw another fluid into the stream. operates several schools across the country. Call 800-543-7084 for information or check out the website at www.kenventuri.com. Then, seal the deal with style with the Fujiyama 2 ceramic pen from Haverhills. This sleek writing instrument is made of polished, high-lacquer resin over a brass shell. Its cushioned TurboGrip[TM] and ceramic tip make writing a pleasure. Go to www.haverhills.com. Of course, there's more to life than golf (isn't there?). For those who prefer their adventures on two wheels, there are terrific bicycles these days. Why settle for a ho-hum bike when you can ride the same model that 6-time Tour de France Tour de France World's most prestigious and difficult bicycle race. Staged for three weeks each July—usually in some 20 daylong stages—the Tour typically comprises 20 professional teams of nine riders each and covers some 3,600 km (2,235 miles) of flat and champion Lance Armstrong Lance Armstrong (born Lance Edward Gunderson on September 18, 1971) is a retired American professional road racing cyclist. He won the Tour de France—cycling's most prestigious race—seven consecutive times, from 1999 to 2005. rides? The Trek Madone SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) The leading security protocol on the Internet. Developed by Netscape, SSL is widely used to do two things: to validate the identity of a Web site and to create an encrypted connection for sending credit card and other personal data. 5.9 is available from Trek at www.trekbikes.com. Whether it's serious biking or just the tour de le neighborhood, this is a gift that will thrill any cyclist. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] Or how about a politically correct politically correct Politically sensitive adjective Referring to language reflecting awareness and sensitivity to another person's physical, mental, cultural, or other disadvantages or deviations from a norm; a person is not mentally retarded, but Hummer? Yes, there is such a thing. The Hummer Tactical Mountain Bike is a 24-speed bike the combines durability with portability--it folds up into a compact shape not much larger than its wheel in less than 30 seconds, without requiring a single tool. Like its bigger counterpart, the H2, the Hummer Mountain Bike springs from the U.S. military--its patented folding system was developed for use by paratroopers needing ground transportation. The frame is constructed of sturdy but lightweight aluminum, keeping it at a svelte 29 pounds. Even weekend warriors can appreciate its convenience, rugged good looks and smooth ride. It's available for $795 at Hummer dealers or at www.hummerstuff.com. For the skiers and snowboarders on your list, check out the Suunto S6 computer on a watch. This wrist-top computer tracks downhill performance in three dimensions: sensors record information on altitude, speed and barometric readings. A barometer and thermometer monitor weather conditions and can warn of impending im·pend intr.v. im·pend·ed, im·pend·ing, im·pends 1. To be about to occur: Her retirement is impending. 2. changes, while a compass keeps you on the right track. You can even download your slope statistics to your PC. The battery-operated and water-resistant watch is available for $369 at REI stores. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] Then there are more leisurely pursuits. For the gourmet with a sweet tooth, try MarieBelle's artisenal chocolates. Handmade from the finest cocoa and ingredients, the chocolates are tiny works of art: Each is adorned with an edible silk-screened image. The chocolates are packaged in MarieBelle's distinctive blue boxes. Available at MarieBelle Fine Treats and Chocolates in New York New York, state, United States New York, Middle Atlantic state of the United States. It is bordered by Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and the Atlantic Ocean (E), New Jersey and Pennsylvania (S), Lakes Erie and Ontario and the Canadian province of , or online at www.mariebelle.com. Or, give a gift of high-end style. Ackourey Clothiers creates custom apparel for men and women from exclusive fabrics sourced from around the world. His clientele includes senior executives, athletes and several heirs to great American fortunes. Ackourey will design everything from hats to shoes (although suits are popular). The company also offers wardrobe consultation as well as gift certificates. Contact Rick Ackourey at 215-884-5590. SOME OF THE BEST GIFTS DON'T COME IN A BOX That's especially true if you know an adrenaline junkie junkie Popular health A popular term for a person, usually an IV narcotic abusing addict, whose life is disorganized vis-á-vis family and societal structure, whose existence revolves around obtaining–often through theft, prostitution or other illicit who can't experience enough of life's thrills. For that special category of adventure-seeker, you might want to consider a once-in-a-lifetime experience such as race car driving or guiding the controls of a top-of-the-line personal jet. Or, opt for a more meditative experience, such as fly fishing. These indulgences and more are not hard to come by, if you know where to look. You don't have to be a NASCAR dad In North American social, cultural and political discourse, NASCAR dad refers broadly to a demographic group of white, usually middle-aged, working-class or lower-middle-class men. to thrill at the chance to play Mario Andretti Mario Gabriele Andretti (born February 28, 1940 in Montona d'Istria, Italy, now Motovun, Croatia) is an Italian American racecar driver, and one of the most successful Americans in the history of auto racing. for a day. That can be arranged at one of the many race car driving schools and academies. An appropriate place to start might be the Mario Andretti Racing School, owned by the famed racing champ. The Las Vegas-based school offers programs for novices, as well as more experienced racers, at various tracks around the country, including California Speedway The California Speedway is a two-mile, low-banked, D-shaped oval superspeedway in Fontana, California, similar to that of "sister track" Michigan International Speedway. It is located approximately 40 miles east of Los Angeles on the site of the former Kaiser Steel mill. and Indianapolis Raceway Park Raceway Park (1938–2000) was 1/4 mile stock car race track located in Blue Island, Illinois, on 130th Street between Western Avenue and Halsted Avenue, used for stock car races from the mid 1930's until the year 2000. . The Qualifier program includes orientation and safety instruction followed by six laps in a 600-horsepower Indie-style open wheel race car at speeds up to 145 mph for $399. Or splurge on Victory Lane, a program that includes technical instruction, one-on-one driver training and 34 laps at speeds up to 170 mph for around $2,000. For details and schedules, see www.andrettiracing.com or 877-Andretti. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] You might want to give a gift certificate from RaceSchools.com, which can be used at more than a dozen participating race schools around the country. For those who like their thrills a mile high, how about flight school? SkyVentures, run by Doug Stewart--the FAA's Certified Flight Instructor A flight instructor is a person who teaches others to fly aircraft. Specific privileges granted to holders of a flight instructor certificate vary from country to country, but very generally, a flight instructor serves to enhance or evaluate the knowledge and skill level of an of the year for 2004--offers one hour "Discovery Flights" out of Columbia County Columbia County is the name of eight counties in the United States:
In the Seattle area, try Wings Aloft. The company offers an hour-long introductory lesson for $99, which includes preflight pre·flight adj. Preparing for or occurring before flight. tr.v. pre·flight·ed, pre·flight·ing, pre·flights To check (an aircraft) for airworthiness before flight. briefing, aircraft rental, an FAA-certified flight instructor and a commemorative log book. Call 206-763-2113 or go to www.wingsaloft.com. Back down on earth, fly fishing is an ideal gift for discerning tastes. Popularized by the film "A River Runs Through It" a decade ago, fly fishing has caught on with such luminaries as Ted Turner For other persons named Ted Turner, see Ted Turner (disambiguation). Robert Edward Turner III (born November 19 1938 and Tom Brokow, and is an attractive alternative to golf and other traditional "bonding" sports. "It's a really personal way to create a relationship with a client," says Jim Wilson There are a number of notable people named Jim Wilson. These include:
A company or a location that offers a multitude of services to a client or a customer. The idea is to provide convenient and efficient service and also to create the opportunity for the company to sell more products to clients and customers. for gear, lessons and outings. Located off of Bay Street, Canada's Wall Street, Wilson's caters to finance potentates and professionals from all walks (Paul Quantrill [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] The draw of fly fishing has much to do with myth and romance. "It's the grace of the cast, the sense of tradition," and the immersion in nature, says Wilson. It doesn't hurt, he adds, that "trout line in incredibly beautiful places." The accommodations for humans aren't bad either. Whether they're after salmon or trout, fly fishers can choose from dozens of exclusive "camps," from Maine up through the northern reaches of Canada or in the Pacific Northwest. Camps such as Nimmo Bay in British Columbia British Columbia, province (2001 pop. 3,907,738), 366,255 sq mi (948,600 sq km), including 6,976 sq mi (18,068 sq km) of water surface, W Canada. Geography and Glendorn in Bradford, Pa., offer the kind of luxurious service you'd expect at a 5-star establishment. Wilson's offers a range of options, from one-hour lessons and full-day lessons and fishing packages, to three-day outings at exclusive camps. The rods and reels favored by hardcore fishermen are made by Orvis and Sage, and can set you back $1,500-$1,800 (U.S.). For information on Wilson's, contact 416-869-3474 or go to www.wilsonstoronto.com. If you want to surprise someone special with a true VIP experience, check out World Events. The well-connected group can obtain hard-to-get tickets, whether for Broadway or the Super Bowl. But the real fun comes from the special events and access they arrange, including opportunities to mingle with professional athletes before or after a game. For more information, contact World Events at 888-838-8499. RELATED ARTICLE: Got Gadgets? Some people just can't have enough high-tech toys. And it seems there's a new must-have on the market every day, as digital convergence In the days of the first computers, transaction and company data were the first types of information digitized. Then came text, opening the world to word processing, followed by audio CDs and finally video. continues to transform everyday objects into multipurpose mul·ti·pur·pose adj. Designed or used for several purposes: a multipurpose room; multipurpose software. multipurpose Adjective marvels. The latest example is the portable video player A handheld device that plays videos. The term may refer to lightweight flash-based or hard disk-based MP4 players that download video content from a computer or to heavier, but still very portable, devices that play DVDs. See portable DVD player, Portable Media Center and portable media player. ; think of it as a Walkman that plays movies. Except, in the case of a new crop of PVPs, there are no bulky disks. Instead, you can transfer content from your PC, TV or VCR VCR: see videocassette recorder. VCR in full videocassette recorder Electromechanical device that records, stores on a videotape cassette, and plays back on a TV set recorded images and sound. , and then watch it on the battery-powered player's 3.5-inch screen. Check out the offerings from Samsung, Creative Labs and RCA See RCA connector and video/TV history. , which are priced at around $400. Or, have you looked at binoculars recently? They're not just for bird-watching anymore. Bushnell's new Instant Replay combines high-powered lenses with the ability to capture 30-second video clips for easy playback--great for sporting events or wildlife adventures. The Instant Replay comes with 16 megabytes of internal memory, removable flash storage, and the software needed to download and edit your movie clips. Pentax offers a different twist: digital camera binoculars. The DigiBino DB100 allows you to view distant images at 7X magnification, and then capture them as high-quality digital images that can be stored or downloaded to a PC. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] For a gift that blends prestige, style and function, consider BMW's MP3 watch. The sporty watch contains 256 megabytes of flash memory, enough to store digital computer files or hours worth of music. Or, use the integrated microphone to record voice memos. It comes with a built-in MP3 player and earphones, as well as a USB port (it's Mac or PC compatible). The watch comes with a black band and features the BMW BMW in full Bayerische Motoren Werke AG German automaker. Founded as an aircraft engine manufacturer in 1916, the company assumed the name Bayerische Motoren Werke and became known for its high-speed motorcycles in the 1920s. logo on its face. James Bond never had so much fun! [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] The MP3 watch is available at BMW dealerships or www.BMW-online.com for $275. RELATED ARTICLE: Product Guide Ackourey Clothiers www.ackourey.com 215-884-5590 BMW www.BMW-online.com 888-269-6654 Bushnell www.bushnell.com 800-423-3537 Hammacher Schlemmer www.hammacher.com 800-321-1484 Haverhills www.haverhills.com 800-797-7367 Hummer www.hummerstuff.com 800-653-1375 Ken Venturi Golf Academies www.kenventuri.com 800-543-7084 MarieBelle Fine Treats and Chocolates www.mariebelle.com 212-925-6999 Mario Andretti Racing School www.andrettiracing.com 877-ANDRETTI Ogio www.ogio.com for local dealers Pentax www.pentaxusa.com 800-877-0155 Pro Performance Inc. www.properformance.com 888-tix-plus RaceSchools.com SkyVentures www.info@flycirrus.com 866-618-1623 Sun Mountain www.sunmountain.com 800-227-9224 Suunto Available at REI stores, www.rei.com 800-426-4840 Trek www.trekbikes.com 920-478-4683 Wilson's Fly Fishing Centre www.wilsonstoronto.com 416-869-3474 Wings Aloft www.wingsaloft.com 206-763-2113 World Events www.worldeventsic.com 888-838-8499 |
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