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Pierre Bennett Global Vacations | Best Places to Visit in Spain

In Travel on May 17, 2012 at 10:54 am
Pierre Bennett Global Vacations


Pierre Bennett Global Vacations

When visiting historic and beautiful Spain, Pierre Bennett Global Vacations has several recommendations for travel club members. From the sunny Costa del Sol to the largest urban areas, Spain is endlessly fascinating. And Pierre Bennett Global Vacations wants members to see it all.

Catalonia is located in the north and has a very marked culture of its own. Pierre Bennett Global Vacations notes that it might be because it’s one of the most cosmopolitan places in Spain, and is a hub of international commerce. But, when members get the lowest price available at time of booking,  Pierre Bennett Global Vacations believes that Catalonia should be their first stop.

Madrid is a stunning capital city with numerous interesting attractions, says the team at Pierre Bennett Global Vacations. The most important things to see in the city are “Old Madrid,” The Prado and the Royal Palace. A small day trip from Madrid is to El Escorial, the magnificent palace of King Phillip II, and because Pierre Bennett Global Vacations members can purchase condo inventory up to a year in advance, they can daydream about the sights in the magnificent Madrid area before visiting.

Pierre Bennett Global Vacations also suggests that members visit Andalusia. It is a beautiful area in the country that is synonymous with “Moorish Spain.” The culture of the area has been influenced by ancient Greece, the Roman Empire, as well as the other invaders of Iberia. And because Pierre Bennett Global Vacations has club resorts available all over the world, members can enjoy staying in Andalusia safe in the knowledge that they have excellent accommodations.

Granada is located at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, explains Pierre Bennett Global Vacations. It is heavily influenced by the Moors. Pierre Bennett Global Vacations suggests that visitors tour The Alhambra, an old Moorish Palace. Pierre Bennett Global Vacations offers deals that aren’t a timeshare, so members are not tied down to one location, or forced to work around another vacationer’s schedule. That leaves more time for eating Granada’s famed tapas while enjoying cocktails.

The quaint city of Valencia is renowned for the world’s biggest tomato fight (La Tomatina), notes the travel team at Pierre Bennett Global Vacations. But this charming city also has the Fallas festival and The Silk Exchange. And with Pierre Bennett Global Vacations club savings, members are able to travel much more often. This seaside city is teeming with culture, history, nightlife and fine dining options. Pierre Bennett Global Vacations also highly recommends that visitors to Valencia venture to The Cathedral and Ciudad de las Artes y Ciencias.

To contact the travel professionals at Pierre Bennett Global Vacations, call (703) 395-1430.

A More Direct Way to Give Aid

In Professionals, Relationships on May 15, 2012 at 11:48 pm

Do you consider yourself someone who wants to help unfortunate people in need? You are not alone. Furthermore, you are a very valuable commodity. Religious organizations all over the country, galvanized by recent developments worldwide and natural disasters like the earthquake in Haiti, are organizing as much aid as they possibly can. Even if you cannot volunteer your time, you may be able to provide valuable assistance with donations of food, money and clothing.

If you doubt that donating to a sprawling bureaucracy like the American Red Cross is your best option, take just a moment to consider how effective a local religious organization can be. Many local religious groups are tireless distributors of aid, support, and service to the needy and tragedy stricken citizens of your community and the world. And volunteering or donating to a local religious organization is simpler, easier, and may be more effective than writing a check to an agency that spends a lot of money on overhead and administrative costs.

Often, religious organizations are more directly linked with their communities and can deliver aid directly to those who need it, without mediators in between. Hurricane Katrina was a good example, as local southern churches were much faster and more effective in delivering aid than FEMA.

Your help, be it with personal volunteer work or a financial donation, can make a very real difference in the life of an individual or family who has fallen on hard times. Next time you feel like giving back to your community, why not look up your preferred local religious organization and take the next step by offering them your help.

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Success Isn’t Easy | Douglas Battista Explains the Value of Hard Work

In Information, Personal, Professionals on May 15, 2012 at 4:06 pm
Douglas Battista

Douglas Battista

Growing up in southeastern Pennsylvania, Douglas Battista was taught the value of hard work by his father. Today, he is the Vice President of Human Resources for Jenny Craig in Carlsbad, California. Douglas Battista says that his climb up the corporate ladder was not without bumps in the road, and believes that his father’s influence provided him the tools needed to focus on his goals.

Douglas Battista attended Niagara University in Niagara Falls, New York earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Travel Tourism/Hospitality Administration in 1994. Shortly after college he took a job as the Food Service Director for the ARAMARK Corporation in Hartford, Connecticut. During his time at ARAMARK, Douglas Battista enrolled at the University of Hartford to focus on a graduate degree. He earned a Masters of Science in Organizational Behavior in 1998, one year after being promoted to Regional Recruiter.

According to Douglas Battista, many people thought that working a full-time/high-stress job while living so far from home would make it difficult to complete his degree. What they didn’t understand, says Douglas Battista, was that he understood that to find his place in the world he had to make his own breaks. No one was going to do that for him. In 1999, with five years of experience, a college degree, and a passion for human resources, Douglas Battista relocated to Irving, Texas, where he continued to serve ARAMARK as the HR Manager. This position set into motion events that would eventually lead him to work for the Walt Disney Company, and finally to his current appointment.

It seems, reflects Douglas Battista, that the values instilled in him during his youth are becoming less important with each successive generation. Many people believe that if they want something bad enough, they’ll get it, but often aren’t willing to put much effort into achieving their goals, observes Douglas Battista. In fact, many of these dreamers are disappointed when they reach their 30s and are still waiting for their adult life to begin, laments Douglas Battista.

According to Douglas Battista, creating your own successes isn’t just financially rewarding. He reports that people who set goals for themselves and take the steps to achieve them tend to be happier overall, even if they encounter obstacles along the way. And, points out Douglas Battista, the emotional benefit of looking back and seeing what you’ve accomplished is the most rewarding part life.

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Steven Delarge: Achieving the Edge in Your Next Job Interview

In Finance, Information on May 15, 2012 at 2:13 pm
Steven Delarge

Steven Delarge

Steven Delarge is one of many executives in this country who have been on both sides of the desk when it comes to job interviewing. At the beginning of his career, he found himself in the position of interviewee, answering questions about his skills and career goals. As he progressed in management, Steven Delarge found himself in the position of interviewer, facing off with nervous applicants.

It was actually through this experience that Steven Delarge learned the most about the interview process. Steven Delarge saw many common mistakes and observed behaviors that made certain candidates stand out from the rest. Recently Steven Delarge spoke with Presentation Solutions about his thoughts on what gives certain employees an edge during the employment process.

Presentation Solutions: We all think we know the basics, but the more I learn about the job interview process, the more I realize I don’t know. What are some of the basics we need to know when starting a job search?

Steven Delarge: Tardiness is a no-no. Employers often see tardiness to the interview as a sign of poor punctuality in general. I recommend showing up early just in case.

Presentation Solutions: What about dress? I know that’s a big issue for many job seekers.

Steven Delarge: It can be tough, knowing what to wear to a job interview. It does depend on the position but in the business world, you can rarely go wrong with a suit. Even if you’re interviewing in an office that’s business casual, save the khakis for after you’ve landed the job.

Presentation Solutions: Can someone prepare for answering questions ahead of time?

Steven Delarge: Sure. Sadly, many of the questions asked in job interviews today are the same questions that have been asked for years. There are quite a few websites that list out typical interview questions. Prepare your responses to those, but make sure your answers in the actual interview don’t sound canned.

Presentation Solutions: Today’s interviewers tend to ask more behavioral questions, right?

Steven Delarge: Yes, but even those have become pretty predictable. “Describe a time you thought outside the box,” that sort of thing. The key to answering all of these questions is to make your answers unique. That can be a challenge.

Presentation Solutions: Any suggestions on how to do this?

Steven Delarge: Giving examples of things you’ve done can really help. As in, “I was the top salesperson in the company for three years straight.” Or, “I was promoted seven times in the six years I was with my last company.”

Presentation Solutions: What about those tricky questions, like “Name your biggest weakness?”

Steven Delarge: I’m often asked about that one and the truth is, there’s no easy answer. The best tip is to take a negative trait and explain how you’ve turned it around. For instance, “I tend to be very impatient, but I’ve learned that keeping a to-do list helps me stay focused.”

Presentation Solutions: Thank you for speaking to us today. Steven Delarge is an Albany, New York business executive with decades of experience in the business industry.

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James Stuckey | Growing Populations Equals Diminished Resources

In Real Estate on May 9, 2012 at 6:25 am

 

James Stuckey

James Stuckey

James Stuckey, former NYU Schack Institute of Real Estate Dean, says that as the world’s population increases, so does our use of natural resources. Stuckey says it’s up to world leaders to plan effectively.

In this exclusive one-on-one with James Stuckey, the real estate developer answers questions about the rapid population increases seen globally and how green and sustainable building practices can help preserve what resources are left.

Presentation Solutions: Good evening, James Stuckey. We appreciate your time today.

James Stuckey: I am certainly glad to be here.

Presentation Solutions: Let’s begin, shall we? How fast is the world’s population growing?

James Stuckey: Right now we’re seeing an increase of about 1 billion people every 13 years. By 2025, the earth is expected to have a population that exceeds over 8 billion people; currently, there are about 6 billion people across the globe.

Presentation Solutions: Why is this information of interest to developers like yourself?

James Stuckey: Think about it: these people will need homes, jobs, schools, hospitals, libraries…

Presentation Solutions: Yes, that’s true. But what impact will building all of these new structures have on the environment?

James Stuckey: Unless it is done responsibly, it will have a huge negative impact. That is why there has been such a push lately for green and sustainable development.

Presentation Solutions: Like reusing materials, utilizing natural heating and cooling cycles, and improving indoor air quality, correct?

James Stuckey: Yes, that’s right, but there are also many other components such as increasing energy efficiency and building in a way that works with the land instead of against it.

Presentation Solutions: What impact does an increasing population have on the Earth?

James Stuckey: First, humankind is using our resources at an alarming rate.

Presentation Solutions: But aren’t certain resources like water infinite?

James Stuckey: Most people mistakenly believe so but there actually is a limited amount of freshwater available. Clean water is a very serious problem in many nations around the world.  Using green building practices can help slow our consumption rate.

Presentation Solutions: What about naturally replenishing resources like trees?

James Stuckey: Demand for lumber is increasing more quickly than newly planted trees can grow into maturity.  Types of trees are a significant factor.  For example, bamboo replenishes quickly.

Presentation Solutions: Do the buildings and infrastructure that we create affect wildlife?

James Stuckey: Absolutely.

Presentation Solutions: How so?

James Stuckey: The more land we develop for human use, the less that is available for other species.

Presentation Solutions: Is that really a big issue?

James Stuckey: Yes, it is. Having proper biodiversity – that is, varied plant and animal life – is important to humans because we use these resources in agriculture and even medicine.

Presentation Solutions: What effect does an increasing population have on food supply?

James Stuckey: That is a whole other issue but as far as real estate development goes, there becomes a shortage of agriculture areas when cities overbuild residential, commercial, and industrial areas.  Fortunately, there are advances in greenhouse technologies, hydroponics, and urban farming.

Presentation Solutions: Changing topics for a bit here: What can a real estate developer do to help ease issues of public health associated with a growing country?

James Stuckey: If you look at the global picture, we can start by creating developments in undeveloped countries that would offer suitable shelter, and things that westernized society takes for granted like running water. We can also put forth efforts at creating educational facilities.

Presentation Solutions: What steps do you suggest are taken globally to help ensure that the Earth is available for these future generations to enjoy?

James Stuckey: The people responsible for the health and safety of their constituencies need to ensure that our cities are planned appropriately.

Presentation Solutions: Anything else?

James Stuckey: There are many, many things that leaders across the globe can do to help combat the impacts of overpopulation. Again, specific to real estate development, I think that the areas of the world with the best infrastructure and most accommodating overall design will have the best chance at sustaining their growing numbers.

Presentation Solutions: Well, James Stuckey, we appreciate you time and again thank you for chatting with us today.

James Stuckey: It was my pleasure.


The Art of Cold Reading a Script

In Professionals on May 8, 2012 at 9:55 am

Cold reading a script is an essential skill for any hopeful actor, but there is much more to cold reading a script than quick, short-term memorization. As an auditioning actor, talent must also show that he or she is listening to fellow actors. Rather than being tempted to peek at the lines during an audition, it’s helpful to practice cold reading before the audition. With enough practice, you will be able to cold read without peeking.

During an audition, confine your memorizing to brief glances. Then return to eye contact with your reading partner. Never let yourself look at your lines for longer than a quick glance. With practice, you will be surprised by how much you can absorb in that glance. Make an effort not to utter a line while looking at the script. Reading a line directly off your script is a great way to blow the audition. During a cold read, the only time you should be looking at your script is during quick silences between lines.

Make eye contact with your partner while reading your lines. This shows the casting director that you have a professional demeanor and a commitment to the craft of acting. Stay in character while reciting your lines.

Begin scanning the script as soon as it is handed out. Do not waste any time socializing or switching seats or looking around. As soon as the cold script hits your hand, make every effort to read the entire scene before anyone begins his or her audition. Give attention to memorizing the first and last lines, so you can have a strong start and finish. Following these guidelines will make your first impression the best it can be!

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Ian Woodman, Idaho Tax Relief Business Owner, Discusses Common Tax Issues

In Finance on May 4, 2012 at 12:17 pm
Ian Woodman Idaho

Ian Woodman Idaho

Ian Woodman, Idaho co-founder of Instant Tax Solutions, often hears questions from taxpayers about tax issues. Pages and pages of regulations overwhelm most taxpayers, many of whom simply want an expert to explain the laws in plain English, says Ian Woodman. Idaho residents interested in tax resolution know that co-founders Byron Pedersen and Ian Woodman of Idaho stand ready to serve.

In this brief article, Ian Woodman of Idaho ’s Instant Tax Solutions describes some of the most common tax issues the company encounters in their work with taxpayers. The team at Instant Tax Solutions regularly works with the IRS to resolve tax issues that Ian Woodman says Idaho clients encounter.

One of the most common issues encountered by taxpayers, according to Ian Woodman, Idaho tax relief business owner, is past due taxes. Many taxpayers come to Instant Tax Solutions with a debt they cannot pay, says Ian Woodman. Idaho company Instant Tax Solutions can help taxpayers work out a payment plan that the taxpayer can afford while still satisfying the IRS, says Woodman.

Another issue, according to Ian Woodman of Idaho, is a fear of being audited. This fear, says Woodman, causes business owners and other self-employed individuals to avoid claiming deductions that could save them perhaps hundreds or thousands of dollars a year. The truth is, audits aren’t as common as you think, Ian Woodman of Idaho says, especially for those who are honest.

Tax liens are another common concern at Ian Woodman’s Idaho Instant Tax Solutions office. If a taxpayer has an outstanding debt to the IRS that has been left unpaid for a long time, the IRS may assess a lien on that taxpayer’s property. Ian Woodman, Idaho co-founder of Instant Tax Solutions, says that the IRS will usually work with these taxpayers to come to an agreement to pay the tax debt off.

Ian Woodman’s Idaho Instant Tax Solutions has helped clients worldwide recover from some of the most complex tax issues. The company’s stated mission is to provide fair tax representation by providing easy-to-understand explanations of IRS tax laws. For more information, visit www.instanttaxsolutions.com


Finding the Right Volunteer Opportunity

In Health and Beauty, Professionals on April 30, 2012 at 5:47 pm

Charitable volunteering has always been an element of human society. Long ago, monasteries and convents were places where people could go to find social services like counseling, basic medical care, and caring for abandoned children. As our society has grown and changed, religious organizations adapted to take on more charitable roles and social needs.

As medicine has evolved and improved, religious organizations like churches and nunneries have become less responsible for medical services in society and have been able to turn their energies toward other needy people. However, these religious organizations need volunteers and donations as much as ever – in some cases more than ever. For those of you that would like to volunteer, but don’t know where to begin, here is a brief description of some modern avenues for volunteering and donation.

Religiously based weight loss programs are becoming more popular. A spiritually based weight loss program uses community resources to help people improve their health and lose weight, including education in exercise, nutrition, and recipes. If you have knowledge or experience with these subjects, this may be a possible way to serve your community.

Another modern social service being administered through religious channels is debt relief. In these trying economic times debt relief can be as important as a food drive. Also available through various religious organizations are volunteer and donation opportunities in the areas of marriage counseling and youth programs. All of these forms of service, are great community building endeavors for someone inspired to give back to their community.

Presentation Solutions urges you to volunteer your time to an organization in need of helpers. You will find that volunteering and giving back to your community infinitely rewarding. Find a cause you believe in and see what you can do to help!

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Apostle Pierre Bennett: A Little Boy Defeats the Giant

In Information on April 27, 2012 at 5:17 pm

 

Apostle Pierre Bennett

Apostle Pierre Bennett

Apostle Pierre Bennett has learned something about courage over the years. A former United States Army serviceman, Apostle Pierre Bennett worked his way up the sales ladder, eventually founding his own resort travel club business. Today Apostle Pierre Bennett leads God’s Luv International Ministries.

Apostle Pierre Bennett relates the story of David taking on the giant Goliath. David was just a child, no match for the giant Goliath, Apostle Pierre Bennett tells us, but through faith alone, David was sure he could take on any rival. “The Lord, who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear, He will deliver me from the hands of this Philistine,” Apostle Pierre Bennett quotes from 1 Samuel.

When the giant saw David, he was insulted. He began taunting him, Apostle Pierre Bennett relates, until David was annoyed. Apostle Pierre Bennett says Goliath didn’t even go after David at first. He was too busy ridiculing him.

Apostle Pierre Bennett points out that many people will treat you that way as you begin to walk with God—especially people who have known you for a while. Those people will seem disbelieving that there might be anything special about you, Apostle Pierre Bennett advises, as if you aren’t deserving of being anointed.

But according to Apostle Pierre Bennett, God loves to elevate the least likely people. The underdogs may seem unlikely to be channels for God’s messages, but just as David faced Goliath with the full power of God behind him, you face your friends and enemies with that same power, Apostle Pierre Bennett informs us.

As Apostle Pierre Bennett points out, when David faced Goliath he was well aware that while Goliath might be a giant in his realm, David was a spiritual giant. Goliath’s weapons were no match against David’s spiritual power. As David approached Goliath with nothing more than five smooth stones and a slingshot, he wasn’t even wearing armor. Physically, he was no match for the ten-foot-tall Goliath.

Even though Goliath was fully armed, David was able to take him down with one small rock to the head. Apostle Pierre Bennett saw this recreated on television once and the shot proved challenging for the world’s best slingshot artist. There would have only been a one-inch opening in Goliath’s helmet, Apostle Pierre Bennett emphasizes, and he was ten feet tall. So David would have had to be at least thirty feet away to hit him at that height with a slingshot. Even the best slingshot artist would have a tough time accomplishing that. Unless he had the power of God behind him…

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Instant Tax Solutions | Ratings and Reviews of Common Tax Problems

In Finance on April 26, 2012 at 1:28 pm
Instant Tax Solutions Ratings

Instant Tax Solutions Ratings

Instant Tax Solutions Ratings and Reviews Team says U.S. taxpayers with problems now have more options.

The IRS, says the Instant Tax Solutions Ratings and Reviews Team, can be confusing and intimidating. It doesn’t have to be, however, as there are solutions to common problem. The Instant Tax Solutions Ratings and Reviews Team points out that, while the IRS can and does act swiftly in cases of delinquency, they do have provisions that allow for unexpected circumstances.

When a taxpayer simply does not have all of their supporting documentation in order, the Instant Tax Solutions Ratings and Reviews Team advises that an extension of up to four months may be requested – however payment of any owed taxes is still due. If money is the issue, such as when a medical emergency has all available funds tied up, a taxpayer may request to delay their liability by up to 6 months, says the Instant Tax Solutions Ratings and Reviews Team.

The Instant Tax Solutions Ratings and Reviews Team points out that filing or paying late can result in heavy fines and penalties. Taxpayers may request that these fees be removed if extenuating circumstanced can be substantiated; for instance, the Instant Tax Solutions Ratings and Reviews Team notes that personal tragedy such as a major illness or auto accident may be forgivable delays. In these situations, penalties abatement may be requested. The Instant Tax Solutions Ratings and Reviews Team encourages taxpayers to ensure that they have proper documentation to support their request, and to always send copies – never release an original document.

According to the Instant Tax Solutions Ratings and Reviews Team, even old debt may be considered for penalties abatement. If the taxpayer can show reasonable cause for the delay and can prove they acted in good faith to pay, the Instant Tax Solutions Ratings and Reviews Team notes that having some of the penalties canceled can be a great start at getting their debt under control.

There are even provisions in the IRS tax code that allow for deductions to be considered when the IRS denies them, notes the Instant Tax Solutions Ratings and Reviews Team. For taxpayers who should be entitled to certain deductions but have misplaced records, the Instant Tax Solutions Ratings and Reviews Team points out that having an affidavit, that is the written testimony of the taxpayer claiming the deductions are legit, is often a sufficient replacement to an original receipt.

These are just a few situations where a tax bill can be reduced. Instant Tax Solutions offers ratings of taxpayers’ economic status to help them determine if any of the IRS programs are a good match. For more information on the firm, or for Instant Tax Solutions ratings, reviews, and services offered, please visit www.instanttaxsolutions.com

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