Converting Text to Outlines - Illustrator CS5

STEP 1:  To convert text to outlines, go to: Select - All

 

 

 

STEP 2:  Select Type - Create Outlines from the menu.

The text will become outlined and can't be edited as text.

Final Outcome:  Now that the line beneath the text has gone, the text characters have editable paths, or outlines, around them - they are no longer text, but vector graphics, and can be edited.