Free web site from Microsoft

As part of Microsoft Live, Microsoft is offering Microsoft Office Live Basics, which includes a free web site (with your own domain name, not a " microsoft.com" site) to anyone. You get 30MB of file space, 5 POP email accounts, and unlimited files (within the 30MB limit). You also get easy drag and drop web page templates plus reports.

Some down sides -- the current version gives you very little choices.

• You have to accept the Microsoft menu navigation scheme
• The color schemes are currently limited and seem to come in only two flavors -- poor contrast or gaudy colors.
• You can't really touch the HTML code, unlike Google, which at least lets you get at the code within the editable regions of the web page.

Of course, Microsoft obviously hopes you'll outgrow this Basic version and want to upgrade to one of the other fee-based versions.

If your church wants to get its feet wet and create a web presence, this is the time. No excuses. Sign up for Microsoft Office Live Basics -- the price is right!