Archive for August, 2009
An important key to high productivity and effective leadership, not to mention sales and marketing success, is to have and maintain a positive attitude. Nothing else will have a greater effect on you than your attitude. Remember the saying, “Your Attitude Determines Your Altitude”? It’s true.
Having a negative attitude or even a neutral, apathetic one will undermine and sabotage your efforts. There is nothing more frustrating than putting in lots of effort and getting no results. When you have a less then positive attitude it becomes difficult (if not impossible) to be the kind of person others want to do business with. You know how, when you REALLY need to make a sale, it’s almost impossible? Or when you REALLY need to be persuasive, the other person just won’t listen? People seem to sense desperation and it drives them off. The same thing happens when you have a negative attitude. You exude negativity. It causes people to avoid you. When a person is negative, they tend to focus on the obstacles rather than the opportunities and solutions. A negative mind is mired in problems, while a positive mind looks for solutions. A positive person is creative and makes the best of every situation. When a person is negative, they tend only to see the obstacles. And when someone only sees obstacles or problems, they tend to feel stress – sometimes a lot of it. In fact, when a person is feeling lots of stress, they can’t be creative (it’s one of those biochemical things). Therefore, a negative attitude thwarts creativity, progress, productivity, and leadership.
In contrast, a positive attitude allows you to deal with the inevitable challenges with creativity and resourcefulness. A positive attitude helps you experience less stress. Your attitude determines how you experience life. It either pulls you down or lifts you up. Your choice…
How does one turn a negative attitude into a positive one? The same way someone with a positive attitude maintains it. You need to eliminate the negative inputs, influences, and factors in your life and introduce positive ones. We’re bombarded with messages throughout the day and night. Some of them are good and some of them are just plain bad for you. We get “messages” from family, friends, co-workers, radio, newspaper, TV, music, the internet, billboards, books, magazines, and any number of other sources. If you don’t decide what goes into your head, then someone else will. You need to take control of what you feed your mind.
Eliminate the Negatives
Stop reading the newspaper! Everyone acknowledges that the newspaper is mostly filled with negativity – murder, fire, war, disasters, etc. Stop feeding yourself with it! Believe me, you can’t help but be informed about major stories one way or another. We’re bombarded. There’s no need to go looking for it.
Stop watching TV news! The same issues that apply to newspapers apply to TV news. And there’s one more caution in addition… When you go to sleep ay night, the mind starts processing the last things it was exposed to. So, what’s the dumbest thing a person can do just before they go to sleep? WATCH THE TV NEWS!!! Stop watching it.
Stop seeking the negative on the internet! Ever hear the expression, “You get what you focus on”? If you seek out negativity, you find it and it becomes your reality. I had a friend who, as Y2K approached, was absolutely convinced that the world would come to an end (almost literally). Every night, he would spend hours on the internet reading about all the terrible things that were sure to happen at the stroke of midnight. He pleaded with me to stockpile food and water. He never spoke to me again after January 1, 2000. He really believed all his fears would come to fruition. He had sought out and focused on the negatives and came to believe them. Don’t dwell on seeking out and reading about negatives.
Stop hanging around negative people! Ever notice that all the folks with negative, small-minded attitudes always hang out together and all the successful, big-minded people hang out together as well? Coincidence? NO! Remove yourself from the negative crowd. Avoid negative people as much as possible.
Introduce Positives
Start hanging around positive people! Positive association is one of the keys to success. Positive association leads to creativity, partnerships, solutions, and bigger dreams. Mark Twain once said, “”Keep away from people who belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but the really great make you feel that you, too, can become great.”
Start reading! It’s often said that the books you read and the people you associate with determine where you’ll be in five years. Where do you want to be? Start reading books about people you admire. Read personal growth books, books on success principles, books about others who overcame challenges, and motivational books.
Start listening! Start using your windshield time as a time to learn and grow. Instead of mindlessly listening to music or talk on the radio, pop in a tape or CD. Listen to audio books, motivational CD’s, or even music that lifts and energizes you. Create a mix of music on tape or CD that gets you and your attitude fired up for that next meeting, presentation, or prospect.
I have a list of books that I’ve read and highly recommend for anyone wanting to maintain a positive attitude and wanting to grow as a person and a leader. You can find the list on my website by clicking the Recommended Reading link: www.TheInsuranceCoach.com
By acquiring, maintaining, and protecting a positive attitude, you will see your success grow and your enjoyment of life improve. You’ll become more attractive (in every way) and will increasingly find other like-minded people to be around.
Michael J. Beck
http://www.articlesbase.com/law-articles/protect-your-attitude-100736.html
Over the course of George Bush’s six years in office it has become abundantly clear that Mr. Bush and his cronies are in a state of “willful denial” about the worsening situation in Iraq….and so is a large chunk of the American public, willingly or due to misleading partisan information.
As the temperature rises and with less than 5 weeks left to the mid-term elections, some of the most zealous backers of this administration in the Republican Party are running scared leaving Mr. Bush trapped holding the “hot plate.”
With the on-going “Sex & Pedophilia” scandal involving now resigned Republican Congressman, Mark Foley (R – FL), the focus on this administration has switched gears mid-stream—from a wanton catastrophe to a circus of “Catastrophilia.”
A homosexual Republican Congressman with Pedophilic tendencies is like “manna from heaven” for the Democrats. They can’t ask for a better gift so close to the elections—an opportunity to expose Republican hypocrisy. You can bet that mothers of all political persuasions will get an earful of this.
These revelations of the activities of Mr. Foley has prompted an all out “Circular Panic Shootout” amongst Republicans, with each and every one facing the electorate this November distancing himself/herself from Foley.
This “October Surprise” could be the final nail in the coffin for the Republican Party. The “chickens have come home to roost,” and the “Values” and “Faith” Party is in deep trouble.
“I will not withdraw even if Laura and Barney are the only ones supporting me,”—George Bush, speaking to a group of Republicans in the White House, according to Bob Woodward (Award Winning Journalist) in his new book: State of Denial. Barney is one of the Bush’s two dogs.
In May 2003, Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld while speaking to a cheering congregation of U.S. troops in Qatar said, “So when people are writing the history books, you’re going to be in it. Thank you very much.”
The Vice President Mr. Dick Cheney in an appearance on September 14, 2003 in a “Meet the Press” weekly show with NBC’s Tim Russert said, “My belief is we will, in fact, be greeted as liberators.”
House Speaker Dennis Hastert (R-IL) recently, sounding much like CNN’s Lou Dobbs, linked immigrants to terrorist and criminal gangs by saying: “Illegal’s crossing our borders are gang members who cross to injure our citizens. This is a daily struggle in some towns.”
These four statements and many others I have not listed here sum up the dysfunctional, hypocritical and deceitful “Republican Mentality” that readily permeates the party from top to bottom.
If you read in between the lines, the intimation is that Bush, Rumsfeld and Cheney have been fighting this war for the sake of “history,” ….and that “illegal immigrants” and by extension “legal immigrants” are just a bunch of criminals and terrorists—dangerous and deceitful rhetoric expressly intended drive an “immigration wedge” to divide America, and instill fear all the way to the November ballot box.
Like seasoned predators Republicans have in the last couple of years skillfully capitalized on a basic human instinct of “fear of the unknown” to weave a national security policy of “fear” into the psyche of the American public, with incredible effectiveness.
A few weeks to the mid-term elections, the “Kings” of “Wedge Issues” and partisan smears are at it again, even though they are clearly on the ropes this time around.
While Bush has been choreographing the “Terrorist Fear Branch,” the right wing of the Republican party led by xenophobes like Duncan Hunter, Tom Tancredo, George Allen and James Sensenbrenner among many others have been “stroking” the locals by holding anti-immigrant town-hall style hate meetings to “rally the base” of the Republican party, a base comprising of maniacal extremists still hanging on to America’s bloody and racially intolerant past.
The so called “House Republican Immigration Field Hearings” conducted in the recent months supposedly explored the “societal and governmental costs of illegal immigrants,” use of health-care facilities, welfare and “the criminal consequences of illegal immigration.” These meetings turned out to be “Distortion Dens” in which immigrants were mercilessly vilified. Manufactured videos of immigrants crossing in from Mexico superimposed with images of Osama bin Laden and Zacharias Moussaoui were played to “fearful” Town-Hall congregants, and are still appearing on TV screens in numerous family living rooms across America.
Needless to say that the “positive” contributions of immigrants (illegal & legal) have been totally blanked out in favor of blood-letting, high-stakes demonizing, irrational and rampant xenophobia aimed at “the disease carrying homeland invaders.” Also, totally swept aside is the Senate bill that would have been a workable starting point from which to work on this complex issue, in order to reach a rational and comprehensive solution.
In order to placate their “base,” the Republican dominated U.S. government has been conducting sweeping immigration raids across the country, inhumanely separating children born in The United States, who are constitutionally American citizens, from their immigrant mothers and fathers …. well meaning “Economic Refugees,” from third world nations racked with incompetent and thieving governments…..some with the assistance of greedy U.S. multi-national corporations whose “colonial” and corrupt profit motive is legendary.
Even Tom Kean, former Republican Governor of New Jersey and a respected ex-911 commissioner has joined the fray for the sake of “Dear Party,” pulling a “Michael Moorer” on Democrats. Sources indicate that Mr. Kean was hired as a pre-production consultant for the movie “The path to 9-11″ a TV miniseries which grossly misrepresents the facts in the 9/11 Commission report and portrays the Clinton administration in bad light.
Clearly, a desperate attempt by Republican operatives in collaboration with a “ratings hungry” media powerhouse (ABC/Disney) to influence the electorate.
If this movie were not a sneaky political move why was an advance copy of the film given to right wing extremist radio talk show host Rush Limbaugh – a self-serving demagogue who has a penchant for monstrous distortions and extremist hyperbole.
Other reports from Washington indicate that the Republicans are planning to unload their significantly superior financial war chest on Democrats in the form of negative TV and Radio ads over personal issues and local controversies. According to these reports, the Republican Congressional committee has dispatched operatives to comb through personal records to find damaging information on their Democratic opponents.
Even though mud-flinging is a political staple for both parties and in-fact almost everywhere else in the world, the Republicans are masters at this game and can ratchet it up to ludicrous levels.
Look out for Republican candidates to become meaner and more twisted in the coming few weeks.
But will the moderate “swing” voters in both parties buy into this charade this time around?
According to a CNN Poll conducted on September 6, 57% of Americans without a high school education believe that Saddam Hussein was involved in the 911 attacks (a fact most recently denied in a news conference August 21, when President Bush said Hussein had “nothing” to do with the attacks), 54% of High School graduates believe likewise. Only 39% of college graduates believe the same. The number dwindles dramatically to 19% for postgraduates.
Are Americans that ill informed? If so then we should expect another Republican win this November.
Will red baiting terror, using politics of deceit, fear and hate work this time?
Will the Republican party successfully energize their “intolerant” right wing base and also scare the pants off moderate Republicans, Independents and even some Democrats….again?
Is the Republican Party running on fumes?
Cheap political scores that violate the core of internationally revered American values like hurriedly establishing military commissions that will utilize “alternative forms of torture” in order to claim the mantle as the “toughest in the war on terror” are very troubling, notwithstanding the fact that these measures have been implemented in other countries before with little or no success.
Piecemeal measures that are politically targeted and principally bankrupt, without any long-term solutions is not the way to govern this great nation.
Coercion, “bribery,” and scare tactics have destroyed the good standing of America in the eyes of the rest of the world during this administration’s tenure.
On moral, political and pragmatic grounds the Democratic Party or even better non-aligned independents should wake up and right the American ship, for the Republicans have failed miserably….they have bamboozled the citizenry, betrayed their trust and misappropriated their hard earned tax money in an unnecessary “imperialist” war.
Another Republican majority in both houses will be a disaster. America’s standing as measuring rod for the rest of the world has been severely compromised and stands to diminish even further if Republicans are given a blank check to continue with their “pillaging sham.”
The American people need to wake up too and send a strong message to both Parties, that partisan politicking without principle is damaging to all and sundry, party faithful or no party.
Perhaps we need a “rational” third party?
James Opiko
http://www.articlesbase.com/advertising-articles/decision-2006-is-the-republican-cut-run-and-scare-strategy-running-on-fumes-62372.html
Sexy Halloween costumes for a fun night out can mean a variety of things from having a fun night out for just you girls, couples acting out and simply having a good time to being something different for one night a year. Now, when we think of Halloween Costumes, we think of only wearing them for one night – October 31st. Yet this is simply not true. Many not only put on their costumes for more than trick or treating, but for masquerade balls, holiday festivals and to simply role-play for the day.
Getting dressed up is not only about wearing a scary mask or haunted houses full of Witches, Mummies, Bats, and Skeletons but about having fun. Halloween is a celebration of All Hallow’s day, All Saints Day and the Celtic Samhain all rolled into one night of revelry and fun. You can dress in your favorite Theatrical costumes, like vampires, a pirate, fairy, angel, and even a werewolf. Both men and women can have fun on this Holiday wearing fashions they never thought to wear. It doesn’t matter if you choose a Sexy Halloween Costume or a silly one, you will have fun dressing up.
Sexy Costumes can allow a couple that has an attraction to each other to simply dress up in something they would normally not wear. It is not about being scandalous but about having fun. You can pretend you are a historical hero or heroine right out of the history books, or choose something more modern, like your favorite mascot. Many Halloween costumes are a way to mimic a supernatural creature, or someone seen on TV.
While at your costume or Halloween party, you could bob for apples, have contest on which Costume is the best, Carve jack-o’-lanterns, go to a Bonfire and in some places like Ireland see Fireworks. It is not only about the sweets though that is a major part, it can also be another way to give gifts and have fun. Imagine you and your friends dressing as the same characters and not only be the bells of the ball but have a great laugh as well.
Halloween was originally called Samhain and was a Pagan Festival among the Celts of Ireland and Great Britain. This tradition spread to North America and Scottish immigrants brought their customs with them. Halloween is celebrated in many parts of the Western World and though the most common is the United States, places like Canada, Australia, Ireland and New Zealand celebrate it as well.
This time honored tradition of dressing up and having fun can be a trying time for some. The boom of online costume stores has changed this, however, and many can be bought worldwide. If you are worried that something does not fit, then you might like to know that there are charts and even customer service specialists to help you find just the right size and look.
These stores carry everything from 20s, 40s, 50s, 60s, 70s and the 80s clothing to Egyptian, Medieval & Renaissance, which are also great for the Renaissance Fairs popping up all around. They also have fairytale legends, military and uniforms, maids, and of course, the belly dancer as well. Belly dancing has become a popular exercise and what better way to show off all your hard work than with a sexy belly dancing costume.
Susan G West
http://www.articlesbase.com/women’s-issues-articles/dress-in-a-sexy-halloween-costume-for-a-fun-night-out-523798.html
Many people are confused as to why the war in Iraq never comes to an end. They want the war on terror to be fought, but they don’t like to sacrifice American soldiers’ lives.
It is time to look at this war in a Biblical sense. Separate from the modern day prophets who say this war fulfills the end of times.
I would like to look at Iraq and the Arab people in a different spiritual light. Where did they come from and why are they such a threat to the democratic way of life.
The Bible states that Abraham had two sons. Ishmael was the son born through Sarah’s Egyptian maid servant. Ishmael became the father of the Arabs and the forefather of the Islam religion. While Isaac was a result of a promise. He became the father of Israel, who would bring us the Laws of Moses and later Jesus Christ the Son of God.
The Jewish faith brought a completely different concept to living in this world. It revealed God’s heart towards people. A Father who loved people and wished to teach people the right path to walk in this world with integrity and moral convictions.
The Laws of Moses gave the world a sense of order. Many of these laws became the very platform that Democracy was built from. Giving our world a guide in which to establish justice and to give people individual rights that lead to living in peace with their neighbors.
Rights that freed all of the citizens of the United States of America from the control of England and established our Declaration of Independence. “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”
These words became the beginning to living in a Democratic Nation that gave people the freedom to worship the way they wanted to and to live how they wanted to live. Our freedoms prevented Kings and Dictators from telling us how to live.
While Democracy used the Laws of Moses to establish laws in the United States. The Arabs became the descendants of the Muslims who established Islam.
Both believed in one God. Yet many differences in how they worship arise when we look closely at the teachings as handed down by Muhammad.
The Judeo-Christian Bible teaches people to love our neighbors as ourselves. To do good to our enemies and to pray for those who persecute us. They value and respect all human life.
Islam teaches that they are the only right religion and they are taught to hate Jews and anyone that teaches another god separate from their god.
The war in Iraq has illustrated a sharp contrast in cultural and religious differences. Giving revelation to why God states that the descendant’s of Ishmael will be in constant conflict with Israel and all other countries.
Genesis 16:11&12, “‘You are going to have a son, and you will name him Ishmael, because the Lord has heard your cry of distress. But your son will live like a wild donkey; he will be against everyone, and everyone will be against him. He will live apart from all his relatives.’”
To fight against a Muslim nation is to put ourselves in a no win situation. Yes, we can set up democratic governments, but we can’t change their religious belief system which is at the very core of their existences.
This is the very reason why a civil war is taking place in the middle of the Iraq war. Factions are fighting each other according to how they interpret their Islamic religion and according to the power they want over each other.
God chose Israel to proclaim how to follow Him. While Islam proclaims a god of revenge. A god that demands human sacrifice, and a one dimensional god that kills anyone that tries to make it change.
Islam justifies even using a person as a human bomb to attack any people including their own brothers that comes up against their religion or way of life. You cannot win against an enemy that does not respect human life.
The United States entered the war for the sole purpose of fighting terrorism and stopping the production of chemical weapons of mass production. Now we are trying to establish a government based on democracy.
When the war stops being about protecting our country and changes to a war about which Islamic Religion should governor the country, we can’t win!
Linda Dipman
http://www.articlesbase.com/religion-articles/is-it-possible-to-win-the-war-in-iraq-79587.html
I started writing when I was 16 years old. To this day I love writing; I love the fact that we can translate words into images. It is incredible when I think about it. Everyone should write, writing is a way to express your feelings, what you want, what you are.
There is no excuse. With word processors, which are a godsend by the way, you can just start writing and you don’t have to worry about spelling mistakes, having to retype anything, and many other things. If you are reading this is probably because you want to write, but for some reason you haven’t done so.
If you think that writing will only take time away from you, you are wrong. Writing improves you in every way you can imagine. So what are you waiting for? Grab your copy of Microsoft Word, and start writing!
Before you do that, there is something you must ask yourself. Would you write even if nobody read it? If you answered yes to that question, you can be a great author. It is true that writing doesn’t become real until you have an audience, but remember that at first no one will want to read what you have to say. Perseverance is the key. If you want to write well, you have to practice, practice, and practice.
For your writing to be successful, you also need to read a lot. Reading is great. I’m sure you know what I’m talking about. If you are deciding whether you want to be an author or not, keep reading.
I’m sure you’ve heard a lot about authors such as Stephen King and Dan Brown. You probably think that they are the only authors that really make $$$, well that’s simply not true. When you go to a bookstore, you see thousands of books. That means that there must be at least a few thousand successful authors out there. That’s without counting e-books, online articles, newspapers, etc. And you can be part of that! The internet is growing like never before, people from all over the world are starting to read whatever you write. It’s just an incredible opportunity.
So what do you think now? Writing is not only good for making money. Writing is also good for advertising purposes. A teacher of mine once told me “There are only two useful skills in life; to read and to write.” That’s one of the smartest things I’ve ever heard.
You are probably thinking that if you want to write, then you will have to put aside other activities. That’s completely wrong. This day I write, I work, I have a beautiful wife, I study and I’m as happy as anyone can be. You tell me if you can’t do anything other than writing. I consider writing a hobby.
So now you are probably thinking what kind of author you want to be. That’s totally up to you. Remember that you must write about a subject that is familiar to you. Ideas will just flow through your mind if you write about something you like. If you decide that you want to write a book, do so. Perhaps write about something that happened to you, or about something that you thought about at some point in your life. The things you can write about are endless! If you write a good war book, be sure to tell me, because I’m going to buy it.
Remember that success is achieved by 99% of failure. So if you were to fall, remember this and keep writing. Never stop writing. One thing that the world lacks of are good authors, there are so many open positions. If you start now, who knows, in a few years you could be making more money than Bill Gates can count. There are more and more people every day that like to read. Not because of the TV, which doesn’t help at all, but because education is greatly increasing all around the world. And since you are reading this you know how to read English and therefore, you can take advantage of this revolution.
Robin Kumar Khumukcham
http://www.articlesbase.com/publishing-articles/you-could-be-an-author-357305.html
Tucson, Arizona has a way of making other parts of the country seem less than stellar, especially during the winter months. Sunny days, ample outdoor opportunities and a vibrant community make this desert oasis worth a visit, so don’t feel bad as you temporarily replace your homeland with a climate and backdrop that are a little easier on the senses.
Nothing is better than chasing down some fine weather after having been shoveling snow, bundling up, and scraping your car for the past few weeks or months. As you step into the realm of the 60’s and 70’s, your mood will lift as your temperature does, and you’ll gladly shed your layers as you grab your flip flops and sunglasses. All seasons are desirable in their own way (summers are pretty steamy but some people like that) but Tucson definitely tends to attract its fair share of snowbirds.
The best way to immerse yourself in Tucson’s gifts is to put on your sturdiest shoes and hit take advantage of the great outdoors. From golf courses to Botanical Gardens, Zoos to hiking trails, everyone will be inundated with opportunities to get some exercise while reconnecting with Mother Nature. Coronado National Forest is great for hiking, biking, picnicking and fishing, among other things. Mt. Lemmon looms above, reaching an altitude of over 6,000 feet and even accumulates enough snow to ski on during the winter.
Bicycle enthusiasts will feel right at home in Tucson, as many cyclists tend to both travel and live here. Paths and off-road opportunities accommodate every style and skill level, and frequent races, including the Tour de Tucson that is held each November, nurture a competitive yet friendly spirit. Whether you want to fit your regular bicycle workout into your vacation or try something new while you have the chance, this is the place to pedal your little heart out.
Culture mavens will also find ways to satisfy their urge to engage in a few enriching activities thanks to the rich history and pulsating arts community of Tucson. The University of Arizona Art Museum has an impressive collection and several smaller galleries illustrate talented local creative spirits. Military forts and adobe homes reflect the stories of days gone by, as do the artifacts, books and letter preserved by the state Historical Society. Basically, there’s a way to keep your brain alive while you’re here, so balance your outdoor pursuits with those that are mentally nourishing.
There’s plenty of time for pure fun and frivolity, too, including eye-popping retail stores, sporting events, theatre and music, and many yearly festivals and special events. One of the largest gem and mineral shows in the world is held here each February, and takes place at various locations across the city. Street fairs with merchants and yummy food, a huge folk festival, and rodeo week are further examples of Tucson’s sense of revelry, so plan a trip to coincide with at least one of these to get a true picture of the town’s personality.
Tucson residents are proud of their home; from the giant A that represents the University’s influence to the well-kept parks, this is a busy little place that makes a perfect haven for vacationers seeking relief from any number of things; bad weather, a hectic and stressful schedule, or the simple monotony of being in one place for too long. Most people know when it’s time for a break, and are wise to do something about it.
A wonderful way to squeeze every drop of enjoyment from this trip would be to rent a vacation home just off the beaten path so as to enjoy a healthy dose of privacy and comfort in addition to all the stimulating activities that the city will offer you. Imagine unpacking your suitcase into a spacious house as opposed to a boxy hotel room, and experiencing the option of cooking a meal in your kitchen, kicking back on the patio, or soaking for a bit in your hot tub. Hopefully you’ll have time for each of these simple luxuries, so clear a good block of time from your schedule today so as to give Tucson it’s due.
The warm air, wide open spaces, laid-back vibe and impressive number of Tucson Vacation Rentals have convinced scores of travelers to head south for a bit, and you could be next. Start checking out the situation, and let Tucson give you a sweet reprieve.
Caitlin Moore
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/traveling-to-tucson-67481.html
By now, undergraduates are making their final preparations for school: deciding on class schedules, arranging housing and finalizing financial aid awards. While some lucky students have received enough aid and grants to see them through the semester or maybe even the school year, others may be taking on additional work hours to help pay for their college expenses.
Some undergraduate students who have already used all their available resources like grants, student loans, scholarships and federal work-study may still find themselves falling short on their college expenses. These students may want to ask mom or dad to consider taking out a credit-based Federal Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students, otherwise known as PLUS loans.
A PLUS loan may be a good way for parents to meet their child’s educational financing needs, according to NextStudent, a leading Phoenix-based education funding company.�
The Ins and Outs for Mom and Dad
With a PLUS loan, parents can borrow money for dependent children who are undergraduates enrolled in college at least half time. Either parent can apply, and because the PLUS program isn’t a need-based aid program, it doesn’t matter how much mom and dad make. But parents do have to fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Creditworthy
- Not in default on any federal student loans
- U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Have a valid Social Security number
The Ins and Outs for Students
For their parents to be able to take out a parent PLUS loan with NextStudent, students must also meet certain guidelines. Children of parent PLUS applicants need to be undergraduates attending a Federal Family Education Loan Program (FFELP) school, have their Student Aid Report and meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Under 24 years old
- Single with no dependents
- Not in the military or a military veteran
- Not a ward of the court
- U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Have a valid Social Security number
One of the great things about PLUS loans is that the amount a parent qualifies for is based on the entire cost of attendance, which isn’t just tuition and room and board, but also includes a reasonable allowance for other education-related expenses, like student fees, books and educational supplies. Each year, qualifying parents can take out up to the PLUS limit, which is the cost of attendance minus any other financial aid their child receives.
Some parents who take out PLUS loans may find there’s money left over after tuition and on-campus housing payments are met, which they can use to cover their children’s other educational expenses. With a Federal PLUS Loan from NextStudent, both parents and children can have the peace of mind that comes from knowing that college, plus those extra college-related expenses, are taken care of.
NextStudent believes that getting an education is the best investment you can make, and we are dedicated to helping you pursue your education dreams by making college funding simple. Learn more about Student Loans, Private Student Loans and Student Loan Consolidation at NextStudent.com.
Jeff Mictabor
http://www.articlesbase.com/college-and-university-articles/plus-loans-may-help-parents-offset-college-costs-196677.html
From World War Two Days in Rockford Illinois September 2008. The 1 and 3 o clock battles worked into one all out battle.
Music by unleadedlogic.com "dash to the lifeboats" from the 04 album "the unseen"
Thanks for the invite darren and ted – it was very cool indeed.
Here's what the rockford star had to say – The Midway Village Museum, 6799 Guilford Road, will host World War II Days this weekend.
The weekend features more than 700 re-enactors with tanks and other vintage military equipment.
There will be two battles Saturday, one battle Sunday, and numerous skirmishes in the village throughout the weekend.
The public is invited to visit campsites in the woods and see displays in the village buildings. The event runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Food and souvenirs will be available for purchase.
Duration : 4 min 57 sec
Audio books, sometimes called audiobooks, are growing in popularity. Students, commuters, holidaymakers, find that audio books are a very convenient way to catch up with their favourite author. Audio books are also great for learning a foreign language.
Duration : 1 min 5 sec
New Pak gov against extreme US military action
Aijaz Ahmad: Coalition government for negotiations with Islamist militants; Pak military highly corrupt
Thursday February 21st, 2008
Based in New Delhi, Aijaz Ahmad is The Real News Network Senior News Analyst, Senior Editorial Consultant, and political commentator for the Indian newsmagazine, Frontline. He has taught Political Science, and has written widely on South Asia and the Middle East.
Duration : 4 min 9 sec