I should probably add this in as well.
The red thing is this: http://www.sparkfun.com/products/8745
To step 5v(UNO serial) down to 3.3v(iPod serial)
And this is the breakout kit for the iPod dock connector: http://www.sparkfun.com/products/8295
and the Ping sensor: http://www.parallax.com/tabid/768/ProductID/92/Default.aspx
Thanks!