Back in 2003 I ventured to Providence, RI to visit the final resting place of my favorite writer, HP Lovecraft, and I too faced a similar result. I used a disposable camera to snap a few quick shots for friends who couldn't make the trip, and quickly met with the grounds keeper. He walked over and started yelling immediately, telling me I couldn't take photographs (I never saw signs and would have respected them if I did). I explained to him I meant no harm and was only paying my respects, and he explained numerous people deface the site every year. I went to leave but walked to him with a map seeking directions--which was when he told me I couldn't do "that" either (apparently he believed I would take a rubbing). Eventually the man's wife(!) showed up, followed by a security guard he'd called. There I am, explaining I meant no harm and telling these three individuals about the greatness of Lovecraft. In the end it was a friendly atmosphere and they saw what a great inspiration Lovecraft was to me, so no harm no foul. I left with my camera, apologized again, and the grounds keeper assured me it was all right because I didn't know the rules.

I respect these people for protecting the site, but think the idea of no photography is ridiculous. The hot sun, wind, rain, and sleet are all sure to do far more damage than my little camera (at least I'm assuming, I'm no expert).

B.S. nd L.B.

Tw rsns why try (kywrd "try") t nt vst bngbng nymr.

Six grand for replacement parts? Five grand for labor? Nearly another grand for taxes? With only the video to go by, a part of me wants to scream out there must be a cheaper way. And honestly, 51 hours for labor? Maybe if you were rebuilding an engine...but simply fixing up a few wires and the dash? Twelve grand is more than half what an SI is even worth!