The History of the International Road Transport Union

While the International Road Transport Union was originally launched in order to fast track the reconstruction of Europe after World War II left much of Europe in ruins.

The history of the International Road Transport Union:

1. The International Road Transport Union was launched in Geneva, Switzerland

Boris Blanche believes the International Raod Transport Union was founded on the 23rd of March, 1948, which was just one year after the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe voted to expedite the reconstruction of war-torn Europe. As a large proportion of Europe was damaged by powerful bombs, with some entire towns and cities needing to be rebuilt from scratch!

It was the hope of the United Nations Economic Commission that launching a transport union, would fast-track the reconstruction of all of Europe’s major transportation routes. Which could then be used to transport the necessary building materials across war-torn Europe.

2. Although the International Road Transport Union sounds like a world-wide organization, originally it only featured western European countries

You may be surprised to read that the International Road Transport Union originally only featured 8 western European countries. Switzerland, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Sweden, Denmark, Belgium, France, and Norway. At the time each country was represented in the International Road Transport Union by their national road transport association.

While the International Road Transport Union may have had humble beginnings, it has since grown from strength to strength and now boasts over 73 countries.

Another noticeable change in the union is that each country also has representation from large transportation corporations as well as smaller owner-operators as well as national transport associations. Whilst in 1948, each country was only represented by a national road transport association. Whereas in its current form, the International Road Transport Union also allows corporate representatives.

3. Today the International Road Transport Union represents the interests of a diverse group of international transport operators

Today the International Road Transport represents the interests of bus drivers, coach drivers, cab drivers and truck drivers as well as other types of professional transport operators.

4. The International Road Transport Union forms both public and private sector partnerships, worldwide

The International Road Transport Union successfully organized the reopening of the Great Silk Road, which was a noticeable achievement as it involved multiple member nations as well as public sector organizations and private sector organizations.

5. The International Road Transport Union is looking to the advancement and development of new technology in order to transform the transportation industry

The International Road Transport Union now invests a large amount of money into developing new technology such as digital systems, which can help automate a large part of the transportation system. So while the International Road Transport Union may have been founded in 1948, it has definitely evolved as time has passed and has its sights firmly set on the future of worldwide transportation.

In conclusion, the International Road Transport Union has come a long way and has grown from an 8 member organization, which only featured European members, to an organization with boasts over 73 members from 5 continents!

Ron Ozer On The Advantages Of Being An Attorney

The job of attorney is one of the most respected in the entire country. For Ron Ozer, who works in New York, it is a way of life. He loves not just the many advantaged that are on offer with this job, but also what the actual job entails. Whether it is dealing with the contractual obligations of a hedgefund or arranging fair child support, he has seen it all and he loves it all. In a recent email, Ron Ozer revealed what he perceives to be the greatest benefits associated with being a lawyer.

The Benefits of Being an Attorney According to Ron Ozer

1. Lawyers make a lot of money. In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics has reported that the average lawyer earns a six figure income, with many exceeding $100,000 by a lot. How much someone makes depends on their experience, where in the country they work, and who they work for. This with the least experience can still expect to make a lot of money if the work for the right law firm. Others, however, don’t do it for the money and prefer to take on as many pro bono cases as possible.
2. No two days are the same. It is impossible for an attorney to get bored. They often have to travel to investigate their cases or to complete further training. They have work opportunities all over the country and each case they take on brings with it a range of new experiences.
3. The role comes with a lot of job satisfaction and prestige. In fact, anyone who is able to become a lawyer is seen as successful. The pay is high, as explained, but it also leaves people in positions of influence, propelling them to the elite levels of society. Lawyers command recognition and respect. The media plays a role in this, as they still promote this glamorous image.
4. It is an opportunity to help others. For all the excitement, money, and prestige, lawyers become lawyers because they want to uphold the law and believe everybody has the right to a fair trial. Each situation is different, with some cases being civil and others being criminal, but it is always about finding justice and doing what is right. Sometimes, this goes so far as being able to spare someone’s life, for instance by helping them avoid the death penalty.
5. Lawyers know the law. This makes sense, of course, but it is a benefit that transcends the profession itself. Knowing the law benefits people in doing business, buying property, doing taxes, and so on. It is also an opportunity to network and make connections, because others will want to take advantage of this knowledge.
6. Attorneys can start their own businesses. Some join existing firms, others start their own. A lawyer has the freedom to decide what they feel is right for them. This is a degree of flexibility that few other professions offer.

Clearly, being a lawyer offers fantastic advantages and opportunities. It is no surprise, therefore, that Ron Ozer loves his profession so much.

 

Sono Bello Looks At The Financial Contribution Of Plastic Surgery to Scottsdale, AZ

Scottsdale, AZ is home to many plastic surgery clinics, including Sono Bello. The work that these clinics do injects a great deal of money into the local economy and they are actually one of the most helpful contributors of all. Indeed, people from all over the country, if not the world, have read reviews on the amp about Sono Bello and other clinics and they decided to come here. Best of all, they dont just come for the procedure itself, they stay for a while.

How Sono Bello Helps the Economy

Anyone who reads a review on a plastic surgery will likely read about the recovery period associated with it. This is a huge economic contributor. Those who come to Scottsdale for surgery generally arrive a few days before and stay for a few days after, generally staying in classy resorts, spending their money on a range of local activities, including dining and shopping. For many, having plastic surgery is something the combine with a vacation.

The figures don’t lie:

• 2013 saw $14.5 million raised in bed taxes, a 9.5% increase year on year.
• Total sales-tax revenues for hotels was over $7.8 million, an 11.3% increase year on year.

Naturally, not all these bed taxes were raised by people having plastic surgery, but much of it was. Consider, for instance, that the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) has listed the five most popular procedures as being:

1. Liposuction
2. Nose surgery
3. Breast augmentation
4. Tummy tuck
5. Cosmetic eyelid surgery

Most of these procedures require a day or two of rest afterwards. The ASAPS has also reported that plastic surgery clientele now varies from people flying in on private jets, to those who inject their life savings.

What is of particular interest to the Scottsdale economy, however, is that clinics like Sono Bello report that they perform around twice as many procedures as what the ASAPS reports are average. This is in part due to the fantastic weather in Arizona, making it a prime destination for those who want to relax and recuperate. Meanwhile, the city is also known for the fact that the prices for their procedures are generally 10% to 15% lower than in areas such as Manhattan or Beverly Hills.

Meanwhile, realtors have noticed that many people who purchase homes in Scottsdale, are people who visited before to have procedures. Those people then often go on to have more procedures, while they have their own place to recover in.

Clearly, the contributions clinics like Sono Bello make to the overall economy, even if it is as a byproduct of their procedures, is significant. For those who still feel as if plastic surgery is nothing but spending money on vanity, it may be worth considering that it pumps money into a community, meaning it benefits many other people as well. If ever there was an excuse to have plastic surgery, there is one: it helps the world as a whole.

Bob Mims CPA Talks About The Best Golf Equipment Advice For Beginners In Memphis

From the outside, golf is regarded as a hugely expensive sport. This is a stereotype that has stuck for many years, although over recent times it could be argued that it has become a little more accessible.

For today’s post, we’re not going to talk about how to combat the high golf course costs, but instead take a look at the other side of the coin. Today is all about golf equipment for beginners, and the tips that Bob Mims CPA has up his sleeve to save you a small fortune as you begin your quest in the sport.

In truth, it’s absolutely essential to keep these equipment cost down if you live in Memphis. The likes of Louisville have some of the most expensive golf courses around, meaning that the community as a whole really has to hunt high and low in a bid to save money on other areas of the game. Bearing this in mind, whether you are starting to play this month or next August, here are some of the best golf equipment steps you can take.

Some golf clubs are more designed for beginners than others

Particularly in Memphis, where the fairways can be very hard in the summer, it’s crucially important to use clubs which are designed for beginners. These clubs have wider soles, meaning that there is far more margin for error. If you catch the grass before the ball, it’s not going to “dig” in and cause you to hit a heavy shot. Instead, it’s more likely to slide and still catch the ball relatively well, and disguise that potentially bad outcome.

Don’t fall into the golf ball trap

Golf ball manufacturers must be some of the best marketers around. After all, as soon as we see those “soft” balls advertised in the pro shop, we’re all desperately pining over them.

It’s at this point that few people reveal that these balls probably aren’t going to make much of a difference to the beginner. Sure, they might feel a little different of the face of the club, but in terms of the end results they won’t lower your score.

For the pros out there, it’s much different. But don’t be tricked by the marketing spiel for everyone else – it’s just trying to steal your money.

The more loft, the easier the shot

Whether it’s woods or irons, the same rules apply. Again, the pros might use drivers with barely any loft, but this doesn’t mean to say it’s the right strategy for you. On the contrary, as a beginner you should be looking for a driver with at least 10 degrees of loft. Any less than this and the club becomes much harder to hit. It’s harder to elevate the ball and ultimately, keep it on the fairway.

When it comes to irons, don’t be tempted to hit a Tiger-like 3-iron stinger. Instead, play sensible, 7-irons are much easier to hit and while they don’t carry the distance, they will keep you safe.

Why People Love American Football

American football is definitely America’s number one sport, with most American’s being able to name a favorite football team. Ryan Grigson has tips to discover why so many individuals enjoy following American football, simply continue reading to discover a few major reasons why American football is so popular.

Why People Love American Football:

1. American football is a physical, high-contact sport, which most individuals find entertaining to watch

Most individuals find watching American football entertaining as it’s a highly physical, high-contact sport, which most individuals find more thrilling to watch than non-contact sports such as golf, baseball and tennis.

Part of the thrill of watching football is seeing whether your favorite players is able to complete a touch down or whether one of the opposition will tackle them to the ground, before they’re able to complete a touch down.

If both teams have scored equal points with a few minutes left on the clock, spectators will end up on the edge of their seats as each and every play could be the play which decides the final outcome of the game.

2. Most supporters of American football teams are extremely passionate about their team

Most supporters of American football teams are extremely passionate about their favorite team and will attend every home team, dressed head to toin their favorite team’s official colors.

Even if you’re not a huge fan of football, if you attend a home game and sit with the home team’s fans, you’re sure to get swept up in the excitement around you and may end up becoming a die hard fan of the team, which you watch.

3. American football supporters love to track the career progress of their favorite players

Not only do football fans enjoy following the progress of their favorite teams but American football supporters also enjoy picking talented players who play for their favorite college teams and then following their career progress as they get drafted into the NFL.

As it’s incredibly satisfying to see a rookie player develop in talent and perhaps one day win a Superbowl or two.

4. American football is a major American past time

Throughout their lives, Americans spend a great deal of time watching football games over any other sports. Just think, in high school attending pep rallies, homecoming games and weekly clashes are a huge part of the American high school experience.

Then when students move on to college, nothing really changes as most colleges rally around their football team. Especially if their football team, is known for recruiting up and coming football stars, who are highly likely to be drafted into the NFL.

Even when students graduate from college, most individuals will still spend a great deal of time attending local college games as well as local NFL games! In fact, many adults continue to use watching NFL games with their family members and friends as a regular opportunity to socialize with their loved ones.

Hopefully after reading the list above, you’ll have a better understanding of why so many people love American football and why it’s well worth watching an American football game in person.

Jack Elway Talks About His Best Fitness Tips

 

It would be fair to say that Jack Elway, and his father for that matter, have enjoyed a very successful time in sport. They’ve played at the top of the game – and become household names in the process.

As anyone who has ever watched or played NFL will testify, this isn’t a sport for someone who doesn’t take their fitness seriously. It’s something that puts immense strain on the body, and there’s a reason why all of the guys have such an incredible physique.

Following on from the above, we have spoken to Elway about his best suggestions for staying in shape. As such, whether you are a bodybuilder or someone who is just starting their fitness journey, let’s take a look at the best ways to keep on top of your body.

Weight lifting doesn’t just give you bulging muscles

There’s no doubt that there are a lot of misconceptions when it comes to weightlifting. Many people believe that this is something which is only worthwhile for bodybuilders, or at least those people who want to benefit from the bulging biceps and famous six pack.

Well, this isn’t necessarily true. Sure, all of the above will happen if you train seriously, but there are further benefits to weight lifting.

This is a practice which can boost your metabolism emphatically. The result is that through the course of the day, your body will be burning a lot more calories. The end result of this is that weight lifting can be a key tool in helping you lose weight. In fact, some people will only rely on this – and ditch cardio completely. This in itself should highlight just how powerful it is.

Don’t underestimate the power of resting

This is a heading that is certainly going to appeal to a lot of you. After all, staying in shape is all about pumping iron and running miles upon miles, right?

Well, while all of the above can help you, you also shouldn’t forget just how important it is to give your body a break. If you’re in the mood to train every day of the week, we take our hats off to you. At the same time, this is giving your body too much.

Every time you work your muscles, they need time to recover. Without this recovery time, it means that they aren’t able to rebuild and ultimately get stronger. Not only is this going to hinder your development, but it can also increase the chances of incurring an injury substantially.

Aim for form, not the big weights

This is something that Elway is a particular advocate about. While it might be tempting to grab the biggest weights in the room, try to resist the urge. If you’re not strong enough to lift said weights, you will just be risking injury. Instead, make sure that you are doing the exercise properly – this will allow you to progress much faster and actually make more efficient strength gains.

7 Of The Best Reasons To Give People Flowers

If you love giving and receiving flowers, simply continue reading to discover 7 of the best reasons to give people you care about flowers.

7 Of the best reasons to give people flowers:

1. To surprise a loved one

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to wait for a special occasion such as a loved one’s birthday or Valentine’s Day in order to surprise someone you love with a gorgeous bouquet of flowers. As you’ll be sure to make your family member or friend’s day if you surprise them with flowers, in order to show them just how special they are to you.

2. To say thank you

If you want to show your appreciation for an individual who has gone out of their way in order to help you, you may want to consider gifting them with fresh flowers as a way of expressing your gratitude. As an example, you may want to gift a friend with a bouquet of flowers for helping you move to your new house or to present a bouquet of beautiful flowers to your mother on Mother’s Day.

3. To celebrate a special occasion

If you’re looking for the perfect gift to celebrate a special occasion such as a wedding anniversary, a graduation or a milestone birthday, it’s well worth picking up a stunning bouquet of fresh flowers, to gift your special friend or family member with.

4. To brighten the day of an ill friend or family member

Whether you have a friend who is recovering from an illness at home or have a family member who is currently in hospital recovering from a procedure, it’s well worth purchasing fresh flowers for your loved one in order to help brighten their day.

After all, if an individual is so ill that they’re unable to leave their home or hospital room, being able to look at a gorgeous bunch of flowers, will be sure to brighten up their day.

5. To decorate their home or office

If one of your friends or family members takes great pride in presenting a gorgeous home or office, they’ll definitely appreciate receiving a bouquet of fresh flowers which they can use to decorate their workspace or bedroom.

6. To present to the host of a dinner party

If you were raised not to turn up to a friend’s house without purchasing a gift for the host, you can’t go wrong purchasing fresh flowers for the host of the event to proudly display in their home.

7. To gift an individual who you don’t know well

If you ever find yourself shopping for a present for an individual who you don’t know all that well, you can’t go wrong purchasing flowers. As while not everyone likes chocolate, you’ll be hard-pressed to find an individual who doesn’t appreciate a gorgeous bunch of flowers.

You can give fresh flowers for everyone as they are the perfect gift for every occasion. So if you’re ever looking for the perfect present for a new acquaintance such as a new partner’s mom or your closest friend, it’s well worth purchasing a beautiful bouquet of flowers.

Golden State Financial Group Explains the Concept of Home Loan Modifications

A home loan modification is a financial construction in which an existing mortgage is changed to make it more comfortable for borrowers, ensuring they can continue to make their repayments. Essentially, borrowers ask their lenders, often through a company like Golden State Financial Group, to make changes to the existing loan terms because they are facing some sort of hardship. In so doing, they ensure that they don’t have to go through foreclosure, and the lender ensures they still get their money.

Golden State Financial Group on What Home Loan Modifications Are

These plans are part of the Home Affordable Modification Program, which was developed in February 2009, at the height of the foreclosure crisis. The aim was to ensure people who struggled to make their repayments would be able to come to a more affordable arrangement. The standards have been federally set under this program.

Someone who is struggling to make their home repayments because of hardship can use these programs to avoid foreclosure. Their home loan is restructured by lowering interest rates, extending the loan term, and even writing off some of the principal. The aim is to make sure that what the borrower pays stays below 31% of their gross monthly income.

Qualifying for a Home Loan Modification

Not everybody qualifies for these types of programs. Lenders do have their own in-house modification programs, but if someone applies through the federal arrangements, they must:

Have taken out their mortgage before January 2009. This stops opportunists from taking advantage.

Be the home’s owner-occupant.

Be in negative equity.

Be in significant financial hardship as a result of reduced income, medical bills, increased mortgage repayments, and so on.

Currently make payments towards a mortgage that are more than 31% of their monthly gross income.

Prove they can make the new repayments.

The goal of a home loan modification is to ensure you can repay a loan, not to stop you from having to pay it at all. If you are in such financial distress that you cannot make any repayments, then other solutions will have to be found.

During the application, people need to provide a wealth of information, including:

Proof of gross income.

Proof of assets.

Tax returns.

Account balances.

Proof of monthly payments.

Proof of any other outstanding debt and payments made towards that.

Furthermore, applying for a loan modification means writing a financial hardship letter. This letter needs to explain, in a short and concise manner, why the individual is in financial distress and what has caused this. Once all this information has been collected, it must be sent to the lender with a request for loan modification, which they will then review. Asking for the help of a company like Golden State Financial Group is often a good idea, as it means they can check whether all the necessary documentation is present and whether it is offered in the right way. This avoid being rejected and having to start to process again.

Patrick Dwyer Merrill Lynch – What Skills Are Required to be a Financial Advisor

I have always felt that the best way to choose your career is not only by doing something which you are passionate about, but also something which you are naturally gifted at doing. As part f our careers focus, we are aware that there are many different abilities which people possess and it is important that you choose a career which matches that natural gift which you have.

There are many different types of people from creative types to caring types but today we are going to focus on those who love finance and numbers like Patrick Dwyer Merrill Lynch financial advisor, and it is his career that we are going to look at today. The role of financial advisor is a great career choice and aside from being naturally gifted with numbers, here are the skills that are required to fulfil this role.

Confidence

In your role as a financial advisor you must have confidence in yourself that you can tell people, or at least advise them on what they should do with their money. The reason why you should be confident is because you need your clients to feel confident enough to take your advice on board, if you are not confident, you cannot expect them to take your word.

Hard Working

Financial advisors need to be experts in a wide range of financial markets and movements and it is up to your to work incredibly hard so that you can stay on track of what is happening in all of the different aspects of the financial worlds. This is about being far more than a jack of all trades, you must be a master of all trades so that you can give sound advice and in order to do this, you must be willing to work hard.

Salesmanship

The world of financial advice, much like many industries, is highly competitive and in order to attract and keep clients, you need to be able to sell them your advice. Many forget this aspect of financial advice but it is in fact one of the most important skills which a financial professional needs to possess.

Relationship Building

Having clients is about more than just offering them sound advice, it is also about building relationships with them so that they feel comfortable with you when talking about their money. You could be highly successful and offer the very best advice but if you can not be likable, you are unlikely to keep clients for a very long time.

Tenacious

Financial advisors do not always get it right and you must be able to possess the ability to bounce back from things when they do not go your way. Financial advisors often live and die by the advice which they give and this is very much a results driven industry, in order to stay on top of your game, you need to be able to overcome the set backs and win more than you lose.

Why Location Is So Important For Your Business

If you’re currently searching for the ideal location for your business, it’s well worth continuing reading in order to discover why it’s crucial to choose the perfect location for your business.

Why Location is So Important for Your Business:

1. It’s crucial to choose a location which boasts plenty of foot traffic

When searching for a prime location for your business, it’s crucial to choose a location which boasts plenty of foot traffic as while some of your customers or clients may travel specifically to visit your business, a large proportion of your customers will choose to pop into your business as a result of walking past your business.

2. In general, most potential customers are drawn to businesses which appear to be popular

If you choose a popular location, which boasts regular foot traffic and your business manages to attract pedestrians to enter your business, you’re very likely to attract further customers. As in general, individuals are far more likely to check out a business, if it appears to be popular. As if a business is empty, individuals will start to wonder whether there is a good reason for the business in question being empty.

3. Your choice of location will influence your customers’ perception of your business

Another reason why it’s important to choose a great location for your business’ premises is that the neighborhood or area which you choose to base your business in will reflect on your customers’ perception of your business’ brand.

As an example, if you choose to purchase or rent a storefront which is located in an artsy neighborhood, your business may be perceived as being fresh and creative. Whereas if you set up shop in an exclusive, luxurious neighborhood, your business and its products may be perceived as being high end or luxurious. If you are looking for the best possible location for your business you can find commercial property for rent from Pall Mall Estates.

4. It’s extremely important that your customers are able to easily access your business’ premises

One of the worst mistakes which you can make when it comes to choosing a location for your business is to choose a location, which is hard for your customers to access. As an example, never choose a location, which lacks ample parking or which is difficult for pedestrians to access!

As well as choosing a location, which boasts plenty of carparks, it’s also worth choosing a location which is easy for your clients to access via public transport. As not all of your customers may have access to a private car.

5. It’s important not to set up shop in an area which features too much competition for your business

As an example, if you plan on opening up an organic cafe, it may not be a wise idea to open up an organic cafe in a block which already boasts a couple of organic cafes. Instead, your business will generate a higher turnover, if you set up shop in an area where your organic cafe, is the only organic cafe in the area, you should expect to generate a huge profit.

So it’s definitely well worth carefully choosing the right location for your business!