[ale] Good Linux-friendly laptop

[Bob Toxen]

What is a good Linux-friendly Laptop these days in the $300-940 range
available locally?

I want something good; for me that means no HP (IMO).

Want DVD burner, a fair amount of memory and reasonable speed.

I need USB ports, WiFi would be nice but I have a Linux-compatibile WiFi
PCMCIA card.

I'm looking to buy at MicroCenter tonight (big hurry, long story).

Thanks,
Bob