If you are a current or former member of the United States military you should take advantage of the available tax benefits.  Benefits include exemptions due to military service.  In addition, like other citizens, you have the ability to appeal your real property assessments within a certain amount of time under the law in your area.  Consider consulting professionals to assist you with an appeal.

Do not let the tax code intimidate you into not claiming certain service related benefits and exclusions.  You can access the links to all of the states at http://www.military.com/benefits/content/veteran-state-benefits/state-veterans-benefits-directory.html.  Also look for the link to your State's department of veteran affairs.  A real property tax exemption is one type of military service related tax benefit.  For instance, North Carolina provides an exclusion for "$45,000 of the appraised value of the permanent residence of an honorably discharged veteran who has a total and permanent disability that is service-connected..."  Law students and/or legal professionals are available to assist service members and veterans, and you can find their contact information under Clinics & Resources at www.forloveofcountry.net/links.

In some locations it is a straightforward process to appeal your property assessment while in others the process will challenge a person's ability and patience.  Remember that you are actually appealing your property assessments.  When you decide to start the process, get a copy of the government's documentation on which it based your property taxes (i.e. assessments).  Next, perform research and document your research.  Identify comparable property sales in your area for the previous 3 years, which date range could vary depending on your location.  Include printouts from sales you plan to use to persuade the government representative(s).  Study and summarize the sales research before your negotiation with the local government representative.  Additional information is available online for some areas, such as Cook County Illinois at http://www.ehow.com/how_6982515_do-assessment-cook-county_-illinois.  Whether your initial appeal is successful, there are sometimes additional ways to appeal, but identify the deadlines. 

As with any legal process a professional's advice might prove highly beneficial.  You should consider consulting a realtor friend to assist with the research.  If in doubt, consult a licensed real property/tax attorney in your area.  Prior to consulting an attorney, attempt to get legal assistance through ABA Home Front and contact the veteran's legal clinic in your area (See Clinics & Resources at www.forloveofcountry.net/links).  Even if you are not eligible for help from a clinic, some private attorneys will not charge more than their consultation fee if the attorney is unsuccessful in lowering your taxes.  An attorney might find an appeal will likely increase your taxes.  Finally, consider an appeal every year because a property owner could make successful appeals on an annual basis depending on the real estate market.

Do not procrastinate if you believe you qualify for the benefits and programs mentioned above.  You could save significant amounts of money.

Disclaimer: This article is not intended to endorse the services of any vendor mentioned herein.  It is intended to make readers aware of available government benefits and resources.  Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for legal advice.

Fall is here and winter is around the corner.  The change in seasons is no excuse to stay inside.  Take the time to read this short article because manufacturers have recently made great strides in their offerings of active apparel and accessories. 

1. MP3 players and headphones designed for active use are easier than ever to implement into your workout.  Of course the Ipod nano is one of the most popular players, but Sandisk, Sony and Coby also produce different models of MP3 players, generally available at a lower price than Ipods.  See the retailers websites for refurbished models if you want to purchase the high end players at a discount price, but read the warranties carefully.  Also read the product description to determine whether the item includes an arm band and/or headphones.  Universal arm bands are widely available on the internet, generally at a lower price than in retail stores.  Sony and Koss make headphones for use during workouts, but do your research and consumer reviews because some models stay in the ears better than others.  I used the Sony active headphones for years and they have even survived the wash on several occasions, but I suggest hanging the headphones on a hook after workouts to avoid this issue.

2. Golf apparel has also undergone some changes in recent years.  The youth movement has spurred manufacturers to innovate in design and performance of golf apparel.  Women golfers will also benefit from new apparel features including Hydrowick fabric treatments, anti-microbial protection, UV protection, and fitted golf outfits.  Manufacturers have responded to one of my frequent problems with golf apparel, stains as a result of hitting out of the rough often, and so scotch guard treated apparel is also available. (Source: Alissa Zito, Lily's of Beverly Hills)

3. Hiking poles and lightweight gear are useful to nearly everyone on a hike because these items provide stability and relief from unnecessary pain.   Contrast humps with heavy gear in the military in which the equipment is not optimized for the individual and their needs.  The major manufacturers have caught on to the demand for lightweight items, specifically designed for the needs of the individual hiker.  However, beginners should consult an experienced professional when setting out on hiking trips to ensure they have necessary items in a backpack.  Furthermore, a professional will be able to ensure you purchase the hiking/trekking poles made to fit your needs.  Find more information on "How to get your kids along on your next hike" at www.thebackpacker.com.

4. Soccer shoes have evolved over the years to perform better on the new types of field surfaces.  Turf fields are more common because of maintenance advantages.   Instead of getting molded or interchangeable cleats or indoor shoes, purchase a pair of turf shoes like I did last season.  Even if your field operators still allow cleats on turf, the cleats are not optimal or comfortable on turf fields.  Many field operators even prohibit cleats because the cleats wear down the surface faster.  When purchasing turf shoes look for a pair of leather shoes because these tend to fit better.  Making the update to turf shoes has greatly improved my soccer experience. (Source: http://www.livestrong.com/article/414295-what-type-of-soccer-shoe-should-be-worn-on-turf/#ixzz1Yntg60Gl)

5. The following are a few suggestions to make your next run your best ever.  Before your next shoe purchase, have your feet evaluated so that you can purchase the proper running shoes to fit your individual feet.  Types of shoes include neutral, stability and cushioning.  If your salesperson does not know the difference, go to another store.  Proper running shoes are essential to your comfort, health and performance.  For general descriptions of the types of shoes go to the shoes & gear section of  www.runnersworld.com or visit your local running store. 

Other new items to improve your running experience are the Bex Runner and water bottle carriers.  The Bex Runner is held in the palm of one hand to cool your body to "minimize the effects of heat stress..."  Hydration packs are a staple in the military these days, but for other options like bottle belts see http://running.about.com/od/hydrationcarriers/tp/tophydrationcarriers.

Fall and winter activities are some of my favorites because I prefer cooler weather.  Based upon the additions of active apparel and some of the above accessories, I enjoy being active outside for more of the year than ever before.  I hope these suggestions help you stay active during the upcoming seasons.  For additional suggestions of activities, go to http://www.menshealth.com/adventureguide.  As always, feel free to make comments about these products or suggest your favorite items.  Thanks for reading!

Disclaimer: This article is not intended to endorse any of the items mentioned.  It is intended to provide general information about fitness.  Consult your doctor before beginning a diet or workout.

Regardless of whether the American Jobs Act is passed, seasonal employment applications should be submitted now.  Experts predict that dollar and discount stores will increase hiring of seasonal workers in 2011.  Some employers are waiting to hire seasonal employees until "Black Friday."  However, many employers will use their existing applications on file to fill the seasonal positions.  Manpower and Kelly Services provide searchable databases of temporary positions.  Remember that stores will also hire more security guards for the holidays.  Service members and veterans likely possess the required skills, but the cover letter and resume should explain how your skills are relevant to the specific position.  In interviews maintain a positive attitude and respect the retail profession.  As a service member or veteran, landing a seasonal position is a great start and it may also benefit the employer. 

If passed in its current form, the American Jobs Act provides incentives for employers to hire qualified unemployed workers.  Veterans are one of the groups specifically mentioned in this Act, specifically in SEC. 201. "RETURNING HEROES AND WOUNDED WARRIORS WORK OPPORTUNITY TAX CREDITS."  Based on reviewing some retail job applications, stores are requesting information about whether an applicant is a Veteran.  These same stores have questionnaires in which they ask whether an applicant is employed, and if not, when the applicant was last employed.  It appears these employers plan to take advantage of existing and/or future tax benefits as a result of hiring qualified veterans. (Check back for an upcoming article on property tax benefits for service members and veterans)

Service members and veterans definitely offer benefits to seasonal employers.  Think outside the box store because distribution centers and grocery stores also hire seasonal employees.  Highlight your relevant skills in the applications.  Be flexible to get your foot in the door.  Start applying now.  Good luck!

Disclaimers: This article is not intended to endorse any specific employers.  It is intended to provide general information to the reader.  Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for legal advice. 

From the moment I begin an activity I expect my shirt to improve my experience in some way.  With new technology in fitness apparel we all have options no matter the type, time or location of the activity.  Most of these shirts incorporate moisture wicking technology to lift sweat from your skin so that it evaporates to keep you comfortable.  Read on for specific shirt suggestions, including an explanation of compression garments, and learn where to find the best deals.

Tip: Before purchasing shirts online try on some in a store because fit and size vary depending on type and manufacturer.  If a store near you does not carry the shirt read online reviews.

One option for an active shirt is the loose fitting moisture wicking shirt.  You may have a drawer of traditional tee shirts, but tee shirts do not include the benefits of moisture wicking, antimicrobial properties, and added sun protection.  In contrast with traditional shirts, moisture wicking shirts are certainly more comfortable when worn on 70 degree or warmer days.  Manufacturers of these shirts include Adidas, Champion, Nike, Under Armour and many more.  In its September 2011 issue, after its team performed a test under different conditions, a Men's Health article concluded the best overall shirt was the Adidas Clima365 Fading Tee, which is available on shopadidas.com for approximately $40.  One of my personal favorite wicking shirts is the affordable Champion Double Dry Training long-sleeve shirt, which is available to purchase for approximately $12-$20 on www.amazon.com.  

The fitted shirt serves a different purpose than loose fitting shirts and compression shirts.  A fitted shirt is usually a heavier material than the loose fitting shirts because it is designed to trap heat.  Fitted turtle neck shirts serve as a good option to layer under a fleece or coat during winter sports.  These shirts also reduce chafing if designed well.  Old Navy has released an affordable line of moisture wicking and compression shirts, priced at approximately $13-$25.  My most recent experience with Old Navy's active apparel line has been largely positive. 

Compression garments are touted as a way to reduce recovery times and perform your personal best.   Traditionally, compression technology has benefitted persons suffering from a range of health conditions, including persons with blood clots.  Athletes have also found compression technology to be helpful during play and at rest.  It is important to purchase a compression shirt with sufficient surface pressure on your skin to ensure you receive its full benefits, because a major benefit of compression shirts is they keep the muscles warm to prevent muscle strain and fatigue.  Some compression shirts are designed for the heat while others are designed for cold weather use.  Skins is one manufacturer of compression gear for use by amateur and professional athletes, and it even makes compression gear especially for plane trips.  Under Armour (UA) is also known for making compression gear, including UA tactical gear, which is widely available on retail websites and in retail stores (Also see www.underarmour.com for information about its work with Wounded Warrior Project).  Based upon reading hundreds of reviews and my own experience, Under Armour apparel has performed well for years.

Stay tuned for future articles that will include more useful information on apparel designed to ensure you enjoy your active experience and perform your best.

Disclaimers: The above article is not intended to endorse any of the merchants mentioned.  Consult your doctor before beginning a diet or workout routine.

The cooler weather of fall is rolling into the United States so your workout gear may be in need of an update.  It's a great time of the year to be active outside.  What types of items are available to stay warm during your hike or run?  Where can you find good deals on these items?  During the next few weeks we will attempt to answer these questions, and we will ensure you know the options from head to toe.  For example, compression garments have been used in healthcare settings for awhile, but recently both amateur and professional athletes are using compression garments more often.  Find out why in our next blog article.

Disclaimer: Consult your doctor before beginning a new diet or workout routine. 

On 9/8/2011 President Obama addressed the nation.  In this anticipated speech the President introduced the American Jobs Act.  He plans to provide specific details in the week after his speech, but he did provide some insight on its intended beneficiaries.  According to President Obama, his proposed legislation includes provisions for creating jobs.  He took a moment to specifically address Veterans, saying "the last thing they [Veterans] should have to do is fight for a job when they come home.  President Obama went on to describe tax benefits for middle class Americans, including mention of $1,500 in tax savings.  This proposal, like the past stimulus efforts, includes incentives for businesses to hire the unemployed.  Initial reactions seem to be skeptical about whether congress members can agree on some or all of the proposal.  Stay tuned for updates on its progress or lack thereof.

We plan to blog on recent case law, new legislation, and much more.  Check back next week for the first blog article.  Thanks for visiting www.forloveofcountry.net!