Articles written by James Raia

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About me - James Raia

A sports, travel and business writer for more than 30 years, I contribute to numerous print and online publications and news services, Associated Press to the Portland Oregonian, Reuters to several specialty lifestyle magazines and web sites. I also own and

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Autos > Buying New Cars Car reviews: 2010 Toyota Prius: 1 of 7
The Prius, which means "to go before" in Latin, has come a long way since 1997 when Toyota introduced it as the world's first mass-produced hybrid. But with several more manufacturers now offering quality hybrids, Toyota redesigned and upgraded the hybrid industry-leading Prius for its third generation in 2010. The standard a... More..
Sports & Recreation > Running Running tips: How to avoid a burnout: 1 of 6
It's not uncommon for an athlete to achieve a goal and then have difficulty staying motivated. The predicament is one variety of athlete burnout, and it doesn't discriminate whether you thrive on walking, swimming, cycling or running marathons.Athlete burnout can also occur as a result of stale training habits, over racing an... More..
Sports & Recreation > Running Tips for running at night: 1 of 6
During the season when nightfall comes early and the inclement weather makes roads slick, runners need to take extra precautions that they're exercising safely.Fred Kaiser and Pam Cantelmi, two veteran long-distance runners, know winter's running hazards all too well. While training on a rainy December night several years ago... More..
Sports & Recreation > Running Marathon training guide: 1 of 6
Compared to many recreational sports, skiing and cycling, for example, training for a marathon is inexpensive.For runners who live where severe winter conditions aren't a problem, the only equipment necessary is running attire - shorts, tops and a quality pair of running shoes.For runners who train in cold-weather environment... More..
Sports & Recreation > Running The risks of running with headphones: 1 of 5
Sometimes even the most dedicated fitness enthusiasts have difficulty getting motivated for a workout. On these occasions, the music provided by portable headphones can provide a welcomed boost.But the user must beware. Whether you're an avid runner, walker, aerobics participate or even ride a stationary bicycle, prolonged us... More..
Sports & Recreation > Running How to select the right marathon: 1 of 4
With more 400 marathons yearly in North America, runners have myriad choices - road to trail marathons, marathons in major metropolitan cities to marathons in quaint, rural communities.In September, for example, more than 30 marathons are listed on the comprehensive Runner's World magazine's calendar. In October, the busiest ... More..
Autos > Car Reviews Car reviews: 2009 Toyota Venza: 1 of 4
The Toyota Venza debuted in late 2008 as a 2009 model and as a new approach to the dreaded two words, station wagon. The Venza has a keen exterior and interior design. The Japanese manufacturer introduced the vehicle with hopes of attracting customers who want the comforts of a passenger car (Camry) with the versatility of a ... More..
Autos > Car Reviews Car reviews: 2007 Mini Cooper: 1 of 4
Six years after its return to United States distribution, the Mini Cooper is no longer a novelty retro. Yet until the Smart, the Daimler-Chrysler mini-car, arrives next year, the Mini Cooper is still the shortest car available in the United States.As such, the English-built sports car garners more than its share of comments. ... More..
Travel > Travel Planning & Advice Tips for a biking vacation in Holland: 1 of 4
The Netherlands may be known for its windmills, meandering canals, tulips, clogs and remarkable artwork. But for those with cycling interests, the country features an elaborately intertwined transportation system of waterways and bicycle paths.As many residents choose to view as daily commuters, touring the country on two whe... More..
Autos > Car Reviews Car reviews: 2006 Hyundai Sonata: 1 of 4
The television commercial touting the 2006 Hyundai Sonata matches it confidently against the Honda Accord. That's a brash move, considering the immense popularity of the country's best-selling midsize car.But after the driving the redesigned Hyundai for a week, the Sonata represents itself well. The Accord and other well-esta... More..