Tuesday, October 13, 2009

How to Choose the Most Convenient Auto Club

Choosing an auto club is a very important choice. It isn’t enough to simply choose whatever auto club program comes your way. That is because each auto club is different in that they have their own set of benefits and price ranges. It is important to explore all of these options in order to find the program that is the right program. The wrong program is going to provide you with things you don’t need and those things you do need won’t be available to you. To make sure this doesn’t happen to you, make sure you do your research.

The pros and cons

There are certain pros and cons that must be evaluated when choosing the most convenient auto club. This includes cost, whether or not roadside assistance is included, if travel discounts are offered, and if any other discounts are provided to members. When it comes to cost, the cost of an auto club membership can exceed that of your regular roadside assistance. However, the auto club is going to provide you with more benefits.

As mentioned before, there are possible discounts included for when you travel. There are also discounts possibly included when you’re not traveling. For example, you can eat at a restaurant that honors your auto club card and receive 10% off of your meal total. You can also find discounts at retail outlets and outlets on the internet.

In regards to how the discounts work, a travel discount is going to provide you with savings on vacation packages, rental cars, hotels, cruises, and so much more. The discount is only relevant to traveling and nothing else. Other discounts include the restaurants and the retail outlets. A discount program is very important because that means you’re going to save some money while traveling. That is money that can be used to do something extra or eat at that extra special restaurant. Those discounts can also be the difference between staying in a 3 star hotel and staying in a 4 star hotel.

Roadside assistance

Saving money through auto club discounts is great, but roadside assistance is actually the most important part of an auto club membership. This is because roadside assistance is what is going to assist you if you’re stranded without help. It is very important to learn everything possible about the roadside assistance contained within auto club memberships. Here are the specifics that a good roadside assistance program should possess:

- Towing service – This can pay for the cost of the auto club membership since one towing can cost around $75.

- Tire change service – This is important because a flat tire can occur at anytime. Roadside assistance will summon help to put on your spare tire for you.

- Lockout service – Everyone locks their keys in their car at one time or another. Having a locksmith get the keys out of your car can cost around $30 to $40. Having this assistance provided by your auto club’s roadside assistance is included in your membership.

- Gas and battery service – If you run out of gas, roadside assistance includes gas to be brought to you so that you can get to the next gas station and fill up. They should also give your battery a jump if your battery dies.

All of these services should be included in roadside assistance, so make sure that they are. These services will ensure that you do not become stranded in an unfamiliar or dangerous place.

Do your research

So make sure you do your research before choosing an auto club. Make sure that you can use all of the services provided and that you’re not paying for services you can’t use. Everyone needs to have an auto club membership. Everyone just doesn’t need the same package.



October 14, 2009
By Amy Nutt
Auto club offering emergency roadside assistance, travel packages and insurance in Ontario. Visit us at: http://caaneo.ca

Auto Club

Sunday, October 11, 2009

The Relationship Between Sports Organizations and Community Service

The relationship between sports organizations and community service exists on at least two different levels: team activities and individual activities. The players may be asked to take part in various activities as a club; such activities would typically be accompanied by extensive publicity with cameras rolling. In addition, players may be asked to individually participate in activities to benefit the community as a whole. In each of these situations, the players may be pressured to be part of the community service, or they may choose to truly volunteer, either as a group or as individuals. In this instance, there may be less publicity.

Team Participation

Team participation in a particular community service project usually involves lots of publicity and may even be undertaken with the intent of convincing other members of the community to participate in the project. The team may appear at a rally to raise funds for a community center, or may take part in a drive to collect funds for Christmas gifts. Usually, the community service activity is a project that will benefit either the entire community or some segment of the community. The star power of the team is utilized to persuade others to join in physically or financially. During a fund raising drive for a community playground, for example, the players of a team may man the telephones to collect pledges, or sign autographs for fans in return for a donation. Although it is a team sanctioned event, the entire team may not always appear at every event.

Individual participation

Another type of relationship between sports organizations and community services is less formal. A team member may choose to participate individually in a particular community service project, simply because he or she believes in the project. This participation may be a matter of spending a few hours each week as a basketball coach at the local community center or Boys and Girls Club. The team member may choose to volunteer at a Blind Camp or as a Big Brother or Big Sister. In this instance, there is likely to be less publicity. In fact, the player may shun publicity for the project. This type of assistance can be either physical or financial. It can even be a matter of anonymous assistance, simply because the need is there and the player wants the attention focused on the need rather than on him or herself.

Financial Assistance

There is little doubt that sports figures are paid some of the highest salaries in the world today. It is for that reason that many in society assume that because players earn more money, they should also be more willing to contribute money toward the general welfare. The difficulty with this way of thinking is that each supplicant looking for help for a community or personal project believes that their pet project is of highest importance. Rarely is there any recognition that the player may have their own schedule of priorities that may not include financial assistance to individuals or community service projects. For sports stars and movie stars alike, there is some perception that since the public is responsible for the stardom, the public has the right to demand financial assistance from the sports star.

Training and educational volunteer

Often a player may feel they get more personal satisfaction from volunteering their own time for a community service activity. They may be fully capable of hiring someone to do the physical part project for them, but choose instead to actively, physically and emotionally participate in the planning or implementation of the project. In this instance, the only reason publicity is sought is for the good it will do the project itself. A surprising number of sports personalities choose to volunteer their time and energy in this way for the good of the community.

Publicity

Among those sports organizations that value the importance of publicity for the team, there can be a great deal of pressure upon team members to take part in publicity type community service projects. This can be to publicize the good citizen aspects of the team, or can even be a pet project of the team administration, owner or manager. Although the organizers of the community service project are usually happy to get any possible publicity for their project, in fact, the sports organization may be just as interested in fostering good publicity for the team because of the community service activities. The more fans that are happy with the team means more attendance at games which in turn can mean more revenue for the team.



October 12, 2009
By Grant Eckert
Grant Eckert is a freelance writer who writes about sports and leisure activities, similar to what consumers read in SLAM Magazine

Community Service

Thursday, October 8, 2009

Getting the Most Out of Government Employment

As with any career, you want to get the most out of your government career and knowing how to boost your government career is essential to the success of your life. Getting the most out of your government career is not unlike any other career; you simply need to know what to do and where to look for any answers you seek.

When it comes to boosting your government career, you can start before you even begin and continue on thereafter by:

• Negotiating: This starts before you begin your first day of work. What most people don’t understand is that a government job, just like a private sector job, is negotiable when it comes to salary. Most government employees will low-ball you when it comes to the salary they offer you. This is where the negotiations begin. Once they shoot their low-ball figure at you, then you shoot your highball figure back. Then after some “figure throwing” you will more than likely meet in the middle, or somewhere close to it and you will realize an instant boost in your government career. This tactic may not always work, but if you don’t ask it definitely won’t work.

• Showing initiative: Once your salary has been negotiated and you begin your work, waste no time in finding out what you need to accomplish for advancement. As with any entry-level position, there is almost always room for advancement and that advancement is going to go to the individuals that take the initiative to meet certain criteria. In other words, don’t just meet the expectations of your government job exceed them.

• Learning: This begins with asking questions. Ask your supervisor and co-workers anything and everything about your current position and what it takes to move up. But don’t stop there. Many times in a government job there are courses you can take to help you to get to the next level in your career. These courses can range from special training classes to college classes. The great thing about a government job is that many times the government will pay for these courses. All you have to do is ask what assistance is available and take full advantage of any extra schooling offered. All it will cost you is time and the rewards can be limitless.

If you are getting ready for a government job then chances are you have beat out possibly hundreds of candidates to get where you are, so why stop there? It all begins with the negotiation, which no one will do for you. You have to speak up and give it a shot. You owe it to yourself to get the most buck for your bang so to speak. There is a reason you were chosen over the other candidates and you deserve to get what you are worth. After that work hard, be diligent, and learn all that you can. The government loves efficiency and will reward those who show they have what it takes to boost themselves to great heights.



October 9, 2009
By Jason Kay
Jason Kay recommends visiting http://www.KSADoctor.com to learn lots more information relating to federal government job applications. They can assist with federal resume writing, KSA writing, and more.

Government Agencies

Tuesday, October 6, 2009

Business Groups - the Way of the Future

It seems like everyone is talking about business groups these days. What exactly is a business group? To put it simply, a business group, which usually online, is a group that people will sign up to in order to find jobs, clients and contacts. What kind of group a person signs up to will depend on what area of business they are involved in, as well as what it is that they are looking for. There are many different kinds of business groups out there that cater to the different areas of business that people are involved in.

Forming a business group is not an overly difficult thing to do. Many continue to form online communities that are unique to a particular area of business. All one has to do is decide on what area of business they would like their business group to focus on, as well as whether they are simply looking for business owners, employers, employees or all three who deal with that particular area of business to sign up to the group. They then get a hold of the software they need and build the business group online, while making sure to include all the features that will help to make the group attractive and useful to those who will sign up to it.

Why would someone build such a community online? Besides the fact that online communities are easily accessible online to just about anyone, a business group that has to do with their area is a great way for people to network, share information and get inspired. The sharing of information, such as what products and services they offer, how they can help others and what they need from others, are all bits of information that people can easily exchange in one of these communities.

People looking for work or business opportunities can also use the sharing of information in such a community by communicating with other members who may be able to help them find what they are looking for. Others may even get inspired in a business group from learning about what other members in the group are involved in. Some will get inspired to learn more about a certain topic that someone had posted on, or may get inspired to delve into another niche that someone else in the group might already be involved in. Above all, the networking is probably the best part of business groups.

It is through networking that people will find clients, work, helpful tips and new information that could help them improve on their own work and business, or even find inspiration to jump into a new career that is of more interest than the old one. No matter how one looks at it, business groups are an easy and accessible way to climb up the ladder to success in the fast paced business world.



October 7, 2009
By Louise Decker
I am a professional networker, keen to spread my expertise online. I work with ZaaBiz.com.au - a leading business networking site.
Join business groups now with ZaaBiz!

Monday, October 5, 2009

Dog Breeding – What To Consider

Good temperament is a vital consideration when it comes to dog breeding. According to expert breeders it is not a good idea to breed dogs with temperament issues because it can cause lead to the temperament degeneration of a whole breed. This is an important point to remember when you’re dealing with Doberman Pinschers and Rottweilers, as well as many other breeds.

Observe your dog’s behavior. If your dog is aggressive to humans, a fear-biter, or excitable, it will not be a good candidate for a breeding program. Shy and submissive dogs are also not suitable for breeding. Choose dogs that are happy, confident, and obedient. When you decide to breed a dog you need to meet the temperament requirements for that breed.

So how do you determine the temperament of your dog? Every breed has its own temperament test; for example, a Doberman should undertake the Doberman WAC test. There is also a general temperament test open to all breeds; the Canine Good Citizen test by AKC. Dog clubs also offer these tests.

Some dog breeds are issued with ‘obedience titles’. Just because your dog has this title it doesn’t necessarily mean your dog has a good temperament.

As well as issues of temperament, you also need to consider compatibility. In order to breed a compatible stud and bitch you will need to check their pedigrees. By carefully selecting their strengths any weaknesses can be offset. If you have a bitch try to find a suitable stud for her, and vice versa if you have a stud. This stage requires a lot of careful research; and if you can’t do it alone you should look for expert advice.

Even if the two dogs look good physically it doesn’t necessarily follow that they must be compatible. You need to look into the history of both dogs. Do they display the same qualities? Do they have any disqualifying faults? Do they overbite? These are just a few of the many questions you need to ask before you start breeding dogs.

You know your dog better than anyone else; and you should know if it’s an excellent example of its breed. If you are aware of any disqualifying faults in your dog you should not be allowing it to breed. If on the other hand your dog has a few minor faults these can be counteracted by finding a good partner. However, the situation is different if you have a dog that is simply mediocre. Always check the standards required in each breed. If in doubt ask an expert to evaluate your dog properly.

There is much more to breeding than just checking the temperament and compatibility of dogs. There are plenty of other things to consider too.

When you breed dogs you need a facility which is safe and secure. If you’re going to breed dogs in your own home you will need to designate a particular room. You will also need to maintain a high standard of cleanliness. By providing excellent facilities, and keeping in regular contact with your vet, you will soon be producing beautiful pups. Always remember to check the temperament and compatibility of your dogs.

If you want to be a good dog breeder you will need to be well-equipped. Knowledge is the key to success.


October 6, 2009
By Steve Griffin
To learn more about Dog Breeding and to discover what you need to know to get started today! Please Visit: www.dogbreedingsuccess.com

Sunday, October 4, 2009

An Art Club Can Open Doors For Your Neighborhood

If you want to do something to make your neighborhood better, you are not alone. There is a lot that needs to be done and the city budget is looking slim. That is why raising your own community money is a great idea. If you can do something that makes your neighborhood better and safer for kids then that's a good idea. An art club is something positive to do. It is a good idea especially for those older neighborhoods that people are moving into and fixing up.

Adding an art club would be a boon to the resurgence effort. If you start small the investment will be minimal. Eventually you can apply for city, state, or even federal funds. By being a non-profit there are benefits to be had financially. That does not mean there are not going to be paid positions. That will be part of the budget once you get rolling. That is a good way to get a new job. You create one for yourself. An art club could have art classes that are informal and it would have a space that people could work on ongoing projects.

The need for space is paramount. Many neighborhoods have community centers that are pretty empty. You may have some vacant buildings in your are as well. There are ways to sort of borrow these. You can contact the owner of a building and ask to use it. You may find someone willing to loan space for a new non-profit community oriented group. They could use it as a tax right off. If you become successful you could look into renting the same space later.

Your next thought ought to be sponsors. Corporate or otherwise, they can be very helpful. Giving support to the arts is high on the list for some companies. Many large businesses have money set aside just for such an occasion. All you have to do is apply. You will need to thank your sponsor in a way that everyone will notice. That is where the promotional products come in so handy. There are all sorts if different items that can be used. Shirts are a good idea because you will need them for your participants too. Your community art logo goes on the front and the sponsors names go on the back.

So much good can come to your neighborhood through your new art club organization. You will have interest, energy, and money coming in. You can put on a show and sell what the students have created. One great idea that I have seen is having kids paint a piece of furniture. People will come to the show and buy because it is a good cause.



October 5, 2009
By Kris Ann
Nice promotional hats can be sold at your arts organization. You have to get custom shirts for your awesome students to wear.

Thursday, October 1, 2009

Pet Training Troubles with Multiple Pets

Training your pet is by far one of the best things you can do to keep your pets happy, healthy, and out of trouble. Training takes consistent amounts of time, effort and patience on your part. Because of these requirements, one of the most frustrating issues for many people, is how to train multiple pets in the same household.

When you have more then one pet in your house, especially dogs, they often have a desire to play with each other. This is quite naturally common in dogs as they like to play for several reasons, including establishing dominance. This will cause problems for the beginning trainer or the earlier stages of the dogs training, such as a puppy. Let's take a look at some things you can do to ease the stress of training when you have more then one pet.

The one aspect of pet training that is the same, is that pets will do the behavior they find the most rewarding. And they find playtime to be very rewarding. The trick here is not to eliminate playtime, but to establish playtime and training time as separate and distinct experiences for your dog.

In the beginning it will be necessary to separate the dogs during their training sessions. This is not a matter of simply placing one in the other room. You need to work with only one dog at a time. This gives the one dog your undivided attention. If you have to stop training to corral or control the other dog you will lose much of the benefit of that training session.

When you separate your pets, they most likely will whine a bit at first. It may be a good idea to take your pet for a walk to another field for that training session. Try to go at least far enough away to not here the other pets, as the whining will be a distraction for both you and your pet. You will not want to hear it, and the other pet will want to investigate. This also will cause a loss of benefit.

If you cannot go away from the house, then try to enlist a friend or family member to play or watch the other pet. This comforts the other pet and will decrease the chance of whining, and actually has the benefit of distracting the pet so they do not consider the missing co-pet as a bad thing.

As your pets get to more advanced training techniques, where distractions a re actually needed, then you can bring them both with you. Have one sit, practice their staying power, and train them one after the other.

Once you get them accustomed to some alone time with the trainer, you should see a remarkable increase in their training success. The one on one time will always progress better then trying to control a mob of pets.



October 1, 2009
By Derek Wood
Derek Wood breeds and trains large breed dogs through the use of healthy and humane techniques. He is a life-long pet advocate and animal friend. Get free">Http://German-Shepherd-Obedience.com">free pet training tips by visiting: Http://German-Shepherd-Obedience.com