Causes and Cures of College dropouts Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Causes and Cures of College dropouts - Essay Example They make umpteen numbers of visits to campuses, spend long hours preparing for standardized tests, and prepare well-knit admission essays that leave no chance for rejection. After all these efforts, it these students leave the colleges they have long been trying to reach, one can easily identify that the reason lies not in the attitude or interest of the students, but in some other factors that result in the loss of interest. In my opinion, there are various factors which are economic, cultural, and social in nature. The economic factors Many scholars have acknowledged the fact that lack of funds or financial burden still remains as the first and foremost reason behind college dropout. The main reason behind this issue is the lack of long term vision in students. They prepare their funds well in advance, but only sufficient for the first semester or the first year. Such students soon face financial crisis and start looking for part-time jobs or grants. Most of them get frustrated so on and eventually decide to give up their studies. However, though not ultimate, there are various solutions that students can try before reaching the decision to quit. First of all, they can try to get a job in the college, for example, a position in library or canteen. This will enable them to give adequate attention to their studies. In addition, by improving their communication with other students and professors, they can come to know about the financial resources other such students depend on. Along with this, they might be able to find out possibilities of grants and scholarships. However, if someone believes that financial crisis is the only economic problem, it is too early to reach such a conclusion. There is certainly a category of students who believe that money making is, in no way, connected to education. According to the proponents of this class of thought, the founder of Microsoft, Bill Gates, was a Harvard dropout. The list is long; the cofounder of Oracle, Larry Ell ison, and the inventor of frozen French Fry, John Simplot, to mention but few. In addition, it is pointed out that professional education has nothing to do with professions like journalism, software engineering, and stock trading. So, it cannot be termed irrational if someone claims that ‘on-the-job’ experience at that age is much better than the highly expensive ‘university experience’. Social and psychological factors For many students, the transition from school to college is a difficult task. It involves forgetting the old friends and making new contacts, staying away from family and friends, and being totally responsible for ones own time, money, and performance. In fact, studies have shown that some students find the college life totally different from what they expected. They may not get the kind of close attention they used to enjoy at school. In addition, as the study at college is totally different from that at school, there may be a decline in th e scores they get. In addition, for those who move from a rural setting to a city, getting familiar with the lifestyle of city and college is a tough task. While some students take these challenges positively, some may not be able to cope up with the situation, and decide to stop. For those who are not used to staying away from family, homesickness and isolation are two important factors that make them take the wrong decision. However, not all are so homesick that they cannot adjust coming to an urban setting.

HRM SCENARIOS ASSIGMENT Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

HRM SCENARIOS ASSIGMENT - Essay Example Since then, Tesco has come a long way and has faced many changes in its corporate strategy. There are certain features of Tesco PLC which help in its differentiation from other retail giants. First is its 'inclusive offer' which has helped Tesco to appeal to all segments of markets thereby attracting customers from all groups of incomes- upper, medium and low and hence make it a one-stop shop for a an array of commodities. Second, Tesco has propagated use of its 'own-brand products' and thereby made the best of efforts to overcome reluctance faced by customer in purchasing own-brands, as they are considered to garner more profits for a supermarket. Thirdly, one of the key features of Tesco's policy is 'Customer Focus' which is put into effect by shifting focus from 'maximization of shareholder value' to have an unambiguous focus on customer service as the top aim of the company, thereby also making higher profits. Home Market- Tesco focuses on the core UK business which involves grocery retailing in its home market. It is also looking at expanding by making a move into the convenience-store sector which is an idea otherwise shunned by supermarkets. Non-food business- In 2006, Tesco had successfully managed to become the largest non-food retailer in the UK. ... Retailing services- Going one step further, Tesco is also into services like personal finance, telecoms, and other utilities. It has managed to fight competition in these fields by entering into joint ventures with the big players thereby increasing its customer base and brand strength. International - In 1994, Tesco started to expand internationally and by February 2006 nearly a quarter of its sales were a result of its international operations. Its major developing markets are present in Central Europe, Far East and the United States. Future Scenario-1 The centre point of this future scenario is based on the assumption that Asda, the second biggest retail store in U.K. and a subsidiary of Wal-Mart, the world's biggest retail store, takes over Tesco. At present Tesco is the lading retail store in U.K. with a market share of about 30.6%, more than double as that of its closest competitor Asda. Supermarket Market Share (%) Tesco 30.6 Asda 16.6 Sainsbury's 16.3 Morrison's 11.1 Somerfield 5.4 Waitrose 3.7 Iceland 1.8 Source: TNS (2006) If Tesco looses out its market share to Asda ,owing to critical policy changes by Asda then in the face of such competition, Tesco would have to critically examine its priorities and hold on to its customer base. According to extrapolation of the current scenario, the probability of such a case to take place is very less. However, if Wal-mart focuses more on the functioning of Asda giving out its necessary skills and experience, this could happen in a matter of 5-7 years. HRM implications This would mean critical changes in the HR management of Tesco. It would have to undertake various measures in order to fight the

Water Treatment for Contaminated Water | Experiment

Water Treatment for Contaminated Water | Experiment Water Contamination Melissa Butler Abstract In the experiments that we have conducted, we used oil, vinegar, laundry soap, and soil to simulate polluted groundwater. Most of the contaminants are occurs naturally, aluminum, iron, and manganese. We then created a variety of filters to attempt to clean the ground water and make it drinkable. We also did experiments will prove that there is really no difference between the two. While doing my experiment we find out that bottle water and tap water have just about the same levels of contaminants as tap water. Introduction Some areas have water-containing contaminations from natural or non-natural sources. These impurities can cause health problems like rashes, diarrhea, and maybe even cancer. Contaminates can also damage equipment, plumbing, or make the water undrinkable, due to flavor, smell, appearance, or discoloration. Water that contain harmful contaminates need to be fixed immediately. â€Å"According to the EPA, exposure to lead in drinking water can result in delayed physical or neurologic development in infants and children, and can cause high blood pressure, kidney problems, and cancer in adults. Moreover, a growing body of evidence suggests adverse health effects result even at blood levels below the 10 ÃŽ ¼g/dL â€Å"level of concern† at which the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend intervention.† (Renner, 2009. A544). â€Å"Before beginning any treatment plan, have water tested by an independent laboratory to determine the specific impurities and leve l of contamination. This will help you select the most effective and economical treatment method†. (Ross, Parrott, Woods, 2009). The effects of exposure to some contaminants in our water supply are not known, but not all of them are health threats. The National Water Quality Inventory 1994 Report to Congress states â€Å"that 40% of flowing river and stream miles can be used for drinking water after conventional water treatment, and 37% of lake and reservoir acres meet the designated use criteria for drinking water† (EPA). The reason why we conducted this experiment is to test the filtration to remove oil, vinegar, and laundry detergent has on soil before it reaches groundwater. These substances go to our local water supply, and into our soil. While the things that we have tested are relatively are no very dangerous, but we have to think of the thing that can get through and cause harm. Materials and Methods Experiment 1: Effects of Groundwater Contamination In this experiment, we tested ground water for impurities. The materials that were used was eight 250mL beakers, three wooden stir sticks, 10mL of vegetable oil, 10mL of vinegar, 100mL graduated cylinder, 10mL of liquid laundry detergent, 100mL beaker, 240mL of soil, cheesecloth, funnel and water. With a marker, the eight 250mL beakers were labeled number one through eight. Putting five through eight to the side, fill with beakers one through four with 100mL of water using the 100mL graduated cylinder to help measure the water. In beaker number two 10mL of vegetable oil was put in and with a wooded stir stick was stirred thoroughly. In beaker number three 10mL of vinegar was added and with a wooded stir stick was stirred thoroughly. In beaker number four 10mL of liquid laundry detergent was added and with a wooden stir stick was stirred thoroughly. At this time, I wrote down my observations of beakers one through four in Table 1. I cut the cheesecloth into four pieces and folded them so that it was four layers thick. I placed one piece of cheesecloth into the funnel, measured 60mL of soil using the 100mL to help measure the soil, and poured that into the funnel. Taking beaker number one, I poured the contents into the funnel and let that filter into beaker number five. Using the same technique as above I repeated the same thing to beakers number two through four and poured them into beakers number six through eight. Once this was done I observed beakers five through eight and wrote down my observations into the Table. Experiment 2: Water Treatment We add 100 mL of soil to the 250 mL beaker, and fill to the 200 mL mark with water. Then we move the soil solution back and forth between the two 250 mL beakers a total of 15 times. We will use10 mL of the contaminated water into a clean 100 mL beaker, and compare it to the â€Å"treated† water at the end of the filtration process. We 10 grams of alum to the 250 mL beaker containing the â€Å"contaminated† water and slowly stir the mixture with a wooden stir stick for 1-2 minutes and let the solution sit for 15 minutes. Then rinse out the empty 250 mL beaker and place the funnel into the beaker. Use four layers of cheesecloth that can line the funnel. Put cheesecloth inside funnel. Pour 40 mL of sand into the cheesecloth-lined funnel, 20 mL activated charcoal, and 40 mL gravel. Use a 100 mL beaker to measure these amounts. To set the filter, slowly pour clean tap water through the filter until the funnel is full. Remove the clean water from the beaker and repeat four more times. Return the funnel to the top of the beaker and let sit for 5 minutes befor e emptying the beaker and continuing the experiment. Without mixing up the current sediment in the â€Å"contaminated† water jar, pour about 3/4 of the â€Å"contaminated† water into the funnel. Let it filter through the funnel into the beaker for 5 minutes. Note the smell of the filtered water, comparing it to the 10 mL sample taken from the mixture in Step 3. Remove the filter and add a few drops of bleach solution to the filtered water within the beaker. Stir the water and bleach combination slowly for about 1 minute. Experiment 3: Drinking Water Quality Label three 250 mL beakers Tap Water, and bottle water (Fiji and Dasani). Pour 100 mL of the each type of water into the corresponding beakers. Ammonia, Chloride, Four in one, Phosphate, and Iron Test Strip test Find the ammonia test strips. Begin by placing the test strip into the tap water sample and briskly moving the strip up and down in the water for 30 seconds, making sure that the pads on the test strip are always immersed. Remove the test strip from the water and shake off the extra water. Hold the test strip level, with the pad side up, for 30 seconds. 6. Read the results by turning the test strip so the pads are facing away from you. Compare the color of the small pad to the color chart at the end of the lab. Record your results in the table Repeat the procedure for both bottled water. Results Experiment 1: Effects of Groundwater Contamination Table 1: Water Observations (Smell, Color, Etc.) Beaker | Observations | Beaker 1: Water is clear, no smell Beaker 2: No smell, color is almost clear. Water did not mix well, created small bubbles. Oil separated from the water. Beaker 3: No color and water is clear. It also has a smell of vinegar. Beaker 4: Has a smell of perfume and the water turned green. Beaker 5: Water turned brown in color some soil residue at the bottom. Has a smell of wet dirt. Beaker 6: The water change to a light brown color. The soil has filtered out some of the oil, because some of the oil was left behind. Some residue of soil was at the bottom. Smells like wet dirt. Beaker 7: Water still smell like vinegar and smell like dirt, brown in color and residue of soil is at the bottom. Beaker 8: Water has a perfume smell, the water is brown and light green mixed. Made light suds and bubbles, with the residue of dirt at the bottom. Discussion Why do we buy bottle water when tap water is the same thing? People buy more bottler water now than ever before. Do we really think that it is safer to drink? The answer is no. Doing this experiment has proven that there is really not much of a difference between the two. While doing my experiment if find out that bottle water and tap water have just about the same levels of iron, ammonia, chloride, phosphate, and etc. I found that everyday chemicals that we use can contaminant our water supply and could have potential to be harmful if the water is not treated for human consumption. According to the results, only beaker with the vinegar came out to where you will be able to potential drink the water. Conclusions What I found to be the most interesting thing in this experiment is that vinegar helped purify the water so that it could be drinkable. All the contaminants that were used were found to make the filtered water dirty and did not help in purifying the water. I concluded that we need to find a way to get the contaminants out of the water , even bottle water so that our children do not have to deal with the health problems that could be associated with drinking contaminated water. References: Basic Information about E. coli O157:H7 in Drinking Water. (n.d.). Retrieved May 8, 2015, from http://water.epa.gov/drink/contaminants/basicinformation/ecoli.cfm Renner, R. (2009). Out of Plumb, Environmental Health Perspectives. 117(12), A542-A547. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2799485/ Ross, B., Parrott, K., Woods, J. (2009, May 1) Household Water Quality: Water Quality Problems Causes and Treatments. Retrieved May 7, 2015. http://pubs.ext.vt.edu/356/356-482/356-482.html Skip Menu. (n.d.). Retrieved May 9, 2015, from http://pubs.ext.vt.edu/356/356-482/356-482.html Water contamination. (n.d.). Retrieved May 8, 2015, from http://extoxnet.orst.edu/faqs/safedrink/watercon.htm

The Adventures Of Huckleberry :: essays research papers

When you first open the book of The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn you'll notice a notice and an explanatory written by the one and only Mark Twain himself. The explanatory explains how Mark Twain uses language and dialect to differentiate between certain characters. "I make this explanation for the reason that without it many readers would suppose that all these characters were trying to talk alike and not succeeding." The notice basically says that for anyone who attempts to find a meaning, moral, plot, and or motive, will be shot. So shoot Mr. Brovsky, his first hour class, and myself. It's surprising to see that this book went by so quickly for me. The more I enjoy a book, the faster it goes by for me. Now back to finding a plot. What I liked especially about this book was it's linear time line. There wasn't that much jumping around in time. Everything came after everything else. The book is divided into three basic sections: Life before the river, life on the river, and life after the river. The river has it's crooks and bends and the plot following them. The river as a symbol in the book is great. Life's ups and life's down are well represented in the river. The point of view of this book was also one of the very best aspects of this book. Huck Finn was written in the first person point of view with Huckleberry Finn telling the story. Even in the beginning, Huckleberry reminds the reader of what happens at the end of The Adventures of Tom Sawyer. "You don't know about me without you have read a book by the name of The Adventures of Tom Sawyer; but that ain't no matter." (page 3) Huckleberry exclaims himself. Mark Twain writes with such flavor and detail that you feel like you're right there with Huck. While Huckleberry is in the cabin at night and his dad is having a nightmare, Mark Twain paints a wonderful picture of how Huck if feeling. "He chased me round and round the place with a clasp-knife, calling me the Angel of Death, and saying he would kill me,…I begged, and told him I was only Huck; but he laughed such a screechy laugh, and roared and cussed, and kept on chasing me up." (page 29) Mark Twain has been labeled by critics as a funny man and not a great writer, yet I believe that he is a great writer because he can incorporate his humor into a 13 year old boy's way of life.

Decoding Apple’s Balance Sheet Apa Format Essay

Decoding Apple’s Balance Sheet In March of 2009, Apple had its best March quarter revenue and earnings in Apple history (Apple). In order to see how this occurred, it is important to look over the financial statements of Apple. There is a lot of information available to investors who are interested in investing in a company. By looking specifically at the balance sheet of Apple I am going to determine if investing in Apple is a good idea or a bad idea. Some things I am going to consider are Apple’s assets, liabilities, and shareholder’s equity. These areas should give me insight to how the best quarter in Apple history came to be. Looking at the current assets of Apple, cash and cash equivalents went down from 11. 8 billion dollars to 4. 4 billion dollars. This may look bad at first, but all of the other assets must be added to this in order to get an overall picture of the assets. Short-term marketable securities went up from 10. 2 billion dollars to 20. 5 billion dollars. This helped Apple’s assets grow tremendously. Accounts receivable fell to 1. 9 billion dollars from 2. 4 billion dollars. With the rest of the current assets figured in, inventories, deferred tax assets, and other current assets, the total current assets rose to 33. billion dollars from 32. 3 billion dollars. That was a rise of 1. 5 billion dollars (Apple). It is important to take into account the rest of the assets. For example, long-term marketable securities rose 1. 5 billion dollars, property, plant and equipment rose 0. 91 billion dollars, goodwill stayed the same, acquired intangible assets fell 0. 017 billion dollars, and othe r assets rose 0. 56 billion dollars. Now that we know how each asset was affected during this quarter, we come to the final numbers, which are total assets rose 3. 6 billion dollars. Apple grew its assets substantially during this quarter. I would think Apple would be a good company to invest in. Before I made any decisions I would investigate the balance sheet further in order to compare liabilities and shareholder’s equity with the previous quarter. This will give me a better understanding of the financial situation of the company (Apple). Current liabilities are in the first section of liabilities and shareholder’s equity. The following accounts are current liabilities and how they fared. Accounts payable went down from 5. 5 billion dollars to 3. 9 billion dollars. Accrued expenses went down 1 billion dollars. Deferred revenue went up from 4. 8 billion dollars to 7 billion dollars. The total change in current liabilities was a decrease of 0. 4 billion dollars. The other two liabilities categories, deferred revenue (non-current) and other non-current liabilities, rose collectively 0. 7 billion dollars. This gives the total liabilities a rise of 0. 3 billion dollars. This amount compared to current assets is not as significant. So far Apple is still looking like a good investment because the assets of Apple rose 1. 5 billion dollars whereas their liabilities only rose 0. 4 billion dollars. It is now time to take a look at the final category of the balance sheet, the shareholder’s equity (Apple). The value of shareholders equity, common stock, rose from 7. 1 billion dollars to 7. 6 billion dollars. Retained earnings also rose; it rose from 13. 8 billion dollars to 16. 6 billion dollars. Accumulated other comprehensive income rose . 07 billion dollars. Total shareholder’s equity rose 3. 3 billion dollars. So adding together the rise of 0. 4 billion dollars in liabilities with the 3. 3 billion dollar rise of the shareholder’s equity, we get the same amount, 3. 7 billion dollars, as we got for the rise in total assets.

Teen Suicide and Bullying

Bullying is a worldwide problem that can be linked to teen suicide. The third leading cause of death in youth is suicide, which results in nearly 4,400 deaths per year (Centers for Disease Control, 2012). At least half of these deaths are caused by bullying. Although bullying is still seen by many to be a normal part of growing up, it is a severe problem that leads to many negative effects, including suicide. Unfortunately, there is not a definitive solution to this problem.However, there are multiple ways to help teens who are contemplating suicide due to bullying: seeking immediate medical help, encouraging teens to talk, parents keeping communication open, and by parents communicating with school authorities. Bullying is a form of abuse that is displayed toward the victim which forms an unhealthy relationship. This relationship consists of the bully having continual control of the victim’s life for an extended period of time. It gives the bully a sense of empowerment that t hey continue to feed off of.This is much different from school aged aggression that typically has a one-time occurrence, such as fighting or teasing between friends. Conversely, bullying can lead to suicide. Bully related suicide can be connected to any type of bullying, whether it is physical bullying, emotional bullying, cyber bullying, sexting, or even the circulating of suggestive photos of a person. Sadly, over 14 percent of high school students have considered suicide and almost seven percent have actually attempted it. The power obtained by the bully over the victim can be devastating and can lead to many negative effects.Bullying can lead to poor mental health such as depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. Nearly 160,000 children stay home from school every day due to fear of torment by other students. This causes the students grades to drop and adds to the victim’s sense of failure. These effects can become so debilitating that the victim may turn to suicide as their way of ending the internal pain. Emotional pain felt by the victim can become so overwhelming that they believe the only way out is through suicide. They may feel as if no one cares or that it would be pointless to reach out to someone because it might even make things worse.Sadly, many times victims feel that they are alone and no one could possibly understand what they are going through. In the case of Amanda Todd, she was bullied and ridiculed at school and online to the point where she felt she could no longer live. Unfortunately, she experienced verbal, physical, and emotional pain at the hands of her peers including people she believed liked her. She was tortured on a daily basis and felt there was no way out. Amanda changed schools as an attempt to end the torment. Unfortunately, as in many cases, the bullying followed her.Amanda attempted suicide on a couple of occasions. She tried reaching out by posting a video on YouTube telling her story. Sadly, a week later she co mmitted suicide. Amanda Todd was a victim to one of the cruelest forms of abuse that is happening today all over the world. Could her suicide have been prevented? According to reports, many of Amanda’s peers did not notice any signs of this struggle. However, she cried out for help not only through her video posted on the internet, but well before that by her multiple attempts of suicide.It may have been possible to save her life if there were more awareness brought to her community on bullying and suicide. If people knew what signs to look for and would have noticed the red flags just from sheer knowledge, Amanda Todd may have received the help she wanted and so badly needed. Although there is no definitive solution to the problem of teen suicide from bullying, there are several ways to prevent a majority of this from happening. One extremely important way to help a teen who is suicidal is to immediately seek medical attention.Doctors and medical professionals are able to fi nd problems that others cannot see. They provide hope for teens contemplating ending their lives. Medical professionals are able to diagnose underlying conditions that are typically found in youth who are at risk for suicidal tendencies. Most mental health disorders, such as depression, can be treated. Not only can these professionals diagnose and treat illnesses but they can also provide teens and parents with resources and useful information. Another great way to prevent teen suicide is to encourage them to talk.Suppressing thoughts and feelings, typically makes things worse. Therefore, getting teens to open up and talk is a great way for them to relieve their burdened hearts. Having them verbalize their thoughts and feelings helps them and others to have a better understanding of what they are going through. Likewise, when a teen is being bullied it is important that they express how they have been hurt. It creates an awareness of the problem which can lead to finding a solution. Sometimes, when a teen is thinking about suicide, what they really want is someone to listen to them.They just want to know that they are not alone. One of the best things a parent can do is keep the lines of communication open with their children. It becomes increasingly important throughout the teen years as they experience many changes such as emotional, physical and hormonal. Communication between parent and child is crucial for the child to feel comfortable opening up to them and discussing any problem they may be having. Being involved allows this team to identify the existence of bullying and suicidal thoughts along with other problems.Connor and Rueter (2006) found that a warm and supportive relationship, especially with the father, shielded a teen from emotional distress and suicidal tendencies. Most importantly, communication and openness can be a deterrent to suicide. When a teen communicates that they are being bullied it is helpful for parents to discuss it with school authorities stop existing problems. This is another way to help prevent teen suicide due to bullying. Since a majority of bullying takes place on or near school campuses, it is the school’s responsibility along with the parents to take action in addressing situations as such.School authorities can help monitor a teen that is in distress and offer great resources to help solve the issues they may facing. By parents communicating with the teen’s school, they can share their ideas and find what works best for the community and their students to stop bullying and prevent teen suicide. Bullying is a major problem happening to teens all over the world. Although there is not a definitive solution to bullying and the connection to teen suicide, there are many preventive measures that can be taken. Seeking immediate medical help for teens who want to commit suicide can be life changing.Encouraging teens to talk will allow them to express their thoughts and feelings instead of internalizing them. Likewise, parents can help prevent teen suicide by keeping the lines of communication open. It lets teens take comfort in knowing they have someone to talk to. When bullying and thoughts of suicide become a part of a teen’s life, it is important that the parent speaks to school authorities. This enables the school and parents to team up against the problems. Anyone can play a part in saving a life by working together to prevent teen suicide from bullying.

Vaccinations Autism Spectrum and Asd Essay

Vaccinations Autism Spectrum and Asd Essay Vaccinations: Autism Spectrum and Asd Essay Exposure to environmental toxins in developing human brains has strong implications to the cause and development of Autism Spectrum Disorders especially if when a genetic vulnerability is present. An Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is an incurable neurological disorder that impacts social connectedness, impairs communication and can exhibit repetitive patterns of behavior. The frequency of ASD has been on the rise since the 1970’s. In 1970 Autism was diagnosed for 3 in every 10,000, increasing to 66 in every 10,000 to about 1 in 88 children in 2008. The dramatic increase over the past 20 years has brought this disorder to national attention which has aided in awareness. This awareness helps parents learn the signs of an ASD so that they may achieve the help for their child that comes from a proper diagnosis at an earlier age. However, awareness and an increase in diagnosis alone can’t explain the huge increase and so doctors have tried to find other explanations. A deve loping brain being exposed to environmental toxins is greatly attributed to the development of Autism. The way the toxins weaken the developing immune system, toxins in food, gut dsybiosis, and excessive vaccinations that contain toxins like mercury all play a major role in whether or not a child develops Autism. Skeptics may say that it is genetics alone that cause Autism; however, genetics, like awareness, doesn’t explain the dramatic increase in cases seen over the past 20 years. Regardless, the risk is too high and the effects of these toxins are devastating for those individuals whose bodies can’t process it. Gastrointestinal involvement to ASD has been

Free Essays on Panic Attacks

Panic Attacks It rises, seemingly, out of nowhere. It is sudden, yet discrete... an intense feeling of terror. You cannot breathe, and are nearly unable to stand as you tremble with chills. Most frighteningly, your heart races, it seems that it will explode from your chest. Before you know it, though... this attack has vanished... leaving you only with the fear that you will soon be struck with another. This, contrary to what you may believe is not a heart attack, nor are you losing your mind. You have been hit by a panic attack. Frightening as this is, it is not uncommon. Ten percent of the American population will, at one time in their lives, experience a panic attack. (1). One in every 75 Americans will be afflicted with Panic Disorder in their lifetimes. (3). When you are faced with more stress than you know how to deal with, your body becomes aroused because it is being bombarded with anxiety producing stimuli. Your body is, in essence, preparing to protect itself against sudden danger, making you physically ready to react by either fighting the stressor, or fleeing from it. The brain releases powerful hormones that constrict the blood vessels in the peripheral parts of the body in order to force blood into the brain and deeper into the large muscles for added strength. In turn, your heart pounds, digestive system shuts down, breathing increases, and muscles tighten. (5). This rush of changes in your body is the cause of the intense physical discomfort experienced during a panic attack. The criteria for a panic attack is specific, to discern an attack from general affects of fear or stress. When under attack, you experience some of the following symptoms all within a very short period of time, and without warning or apparent reason. Generally, the level of fear is drastically out of proportion to the situation, or even unrelated. Panic attacks can even occur in your sleep. (3). You may experience heart palpitations, sweatin... Free Essays on Panic Attacks Free Essays on Panic Attacks Panic Attacks There are many opinions and theries concerning anxiety and panic attacks. Some believe panic attacks are caused by a person's inability to live the life they dream of, while others believe they are caused by deep rooted fear based memories that we don't want to deal with. There are as many opinions as there are "experts". I believe the true experts are the people who experience this dread called panic attacks. Everyone experiences some form of anxiety in their life, however, not everyone experiences this intense feeling of a life threating anxiety called panic attacks. In the Oxford Dictionary of Psychology, panic attacks are described as a period during which there is a sudden onset of intense terror, fear, or apprehension, accompanied by signs and symptoms such as a feeling of impending doom, a fear of going insane, shortness of breath, a choking sensation, increased heart rate and palpitations, chest pain or discomfort, dizziness, trembling, sweating, and nauseas. This description is right on target because it includes most if not all the symptoms that people have described to their doctors over the years. I chose this topic because I have first hand experience of panic attacks which are for the most part under control. I have also had family and friends that have suffered with them for years, so I can vouch for the Oxford definition. Robert Gerzon, author of " Finding Serenity in the age of anxiety". claims that we all should be anxious because it is a good thing. Gerzon feels that the problem is not anxiety, but that we're just not anxious about the right things. For example, we are anxious about finding a parking space but not that anxious about finding solutions for social injustice. This is among the more radical viewpoints. A more mainstream viewpoint is that of Joseph LeDoux. In hi... Free Essays on Panic Attacks Panic Attacks It rises, seemingly, out of nowhere. It is sudden, yet discrete... an intense feeling of terror. You cannot breathe, and are nearly unable to stand as you tremble with chills. Most frighteningly, your heart races, it seems that it will explode from your chest. Before you know it, though... this attack has vanished... leaving you only with the fear that you will soon be struck with another. This, contrary to what you may believe is not a heart attack, nor are you losing your mind. You have been hit by a panic attack. Frightening as this is, it is not uncommon. Ten percent of the American population will, at one time in their lives, experience a panic attack. (1). One in every 75 Americans will be afflicted with Panic Disorder in their lifetimes. (3). When you are faced with more stress than you know how to deal with, your body becomes aroused because it is being bombarded with anxiety producing stimuli. Your body is, in essence, preparing to protect itself against sudden danger, making you physically ready to react by either fighting the stressor, or fleeing from it. The brain releases powerful hormones that constrict the blood vessels in the peripheral parts of the body in order to force blood into the brain and deeper into the large muscles for added strength. In turn, your heart pounds, digestive system shuts down, breathing increases, and muscles tighten. (5). This rush of changes in your body is the cause of the intense physical discomfort experienced during a panic attack. The criteria for a panic attack is specific, to discern an attack from general affects of fear or stress. When under attack, you experience some of the following symptoms all within a very short period of time, and without warning or apparent reason. Generally, the level of fear is drastically out of proportion to the situation, or even unrelated. Panic attacks can even occur in your sleep. (3). You may experience heart palpitations, sweatin...

20 Very Important Things To Do Before 30

20 Very Important Things To Do Before 30 The Big Three-Oh is a milestone in anybody’s life. But your 20s are a fertile decade for getting things done- especially things you might not have the time or energy to do when you get your life and career on lockdown in your 30s. Here are 20 important things to do before 30.1. TravelYou’ll never be freer than you are in your 20s. Take every opportunity you can to go new places and experience new parts of the world. Let each new thing you see inform your worldview as you widen your horizons.2. Put money awayIt is never too early to start a 401k or other retirement account, but it can become too late. Just remember: the more you put away early (and the earlier you start), the better off you’ll be.3. Learn to cookLearn to make a few simple dishes from scratch. Learn to follow a recipe. Stock your kitchen and your repertoire with a few basics and signature items, and you’ll be in good shape for growing up.4. Learn to take care of yourselfThis is the only body you’ll ever have. Make sure you’re taking care of yourself and that you can tell the difference between good health and poor health- then start making choices that will keep you in good health as you get older. If something’s off, go to the doctor. Don’t wait until it becomes a major problem.5. Make a budgetThe time for overdrawing your checking account is over. Figure out what you can afford to spend after you’ve paid your bills and stick within that range each month. Don’t miss payments on credit cards or bills or risk your financial future.6. Live aloneIt can be scary being on your own. But you also learn valuable skills and get to know yourself. You’ll develop an independence that will make you a much better partner or family member in the long run- and you’ll have fewer resentments and regrets when you do settle down.7. Get a credit cardDon’t abuse it; pay your bill completely every month. It is vital to build good credit and you should start as early as you can. Be sure only to use it for purchases you’re certain you can pay off immediately as you establish your borrowing history.8. Be with someoneSerial dating and casual hook-ups are great, and yeah, you don’t want to settle down for a long time †¦ but having a real relationship, even and especially one that probably won’t lead to marriage, is an important step in personal development. You’ll learn a huge amount about yourself and how to live and love with other people.9. Finish schoolNot everyone is lucky enough to graduate in their 20s. Take advantage of the opportunity if you have it. It’s never too late to go back and finish, but it’s a great idea to get it out of the way as early as possible. The future will be yours.10. Learn about your carDon’t just play dumb every time your car breaks down. Get to know its anatomy and needs so that you can take good care of it- much like your own body- and maybe then it won’t break down and cost you tons of money!11. Save for emergenciesHave an emergency savings fund for unforeseen catastrophes and unexpected expenses. You’ll never know when you might need it. Hopefully you won’t! Worst case scenario: you’ll have saved extra for something great later down the road.12. Read moreJust because most people are glued to their smart phones and televisions doesn’t mean you can’t read an actual book now and then. It’s both relaxing and educational and will make you a better and more interesting human being.13. Learn to say ‘no’Set and maintain boundaries for yourself. Don’t just run off in every direction you are pushed. Learn what you want and what is best for you and try to keep that in mind when new opportunities are offered to you.14. Build your valuesFigure out who you want to be. What are your beliefs, what do you want, and what is your moral code? Figuring o ut your values can be a great way of making sure you’re solid in them when you really need to rely on something essential in yourself in a crisis.15. Learn who your real friends areWho can you call at 3 a.m. when you’re sad or scared? Who do you know that will bail on you at the last minute? Get a strong grip on who your real friends are and which people are just fun acquaintances. Then nurture your friendships carefully and hold onto them for dear life.16. Go to the doctorThere’s a reason preventative care is now fully covered by insurance. Get your annual wellness exam. And your well woman exam- if that applies to you. Get your teeth cleaned twice a year. It’s always a better idea to be proactive. Err on the side of good health always.17. Learn to make yourself happyNo one can make you happy but yourself. It is a skill that comes from inside. Learn to find a bit of inner peace and be happy with and in yourself. The rest will fall into place.18. Take pic turesMost young people are constantly snapping photos to share on social media. This isn’t always a bad thing. When you’re old and grey you’ll treasure the memories.19. Love yourselfAccept yourself for who you are- strengths and weaknesses- and learn to love yourself. You cannot love anyone else truly until you can do this. This is the key to success and happiness in life. Hold fast to it.20. Do moreThese goals are just the bare minimum. Set other goals for yourself. Then set more! Make sure to keep setting short and long term goals and constantly pushing yourself to be and do better. You’ll never regret the progress you will make.

German singer in jail after ex-lover claims she infected him with HIV Article

German singer in jail after ex-lover claims she infected him with HIV - Article Example Benaissa, who became a celebrity overnight when together with the other members of her band shot to fame by winning the first series of the Pop stars German talent show in 2000, is accused of having slept with three men without telling them that she was HIV positive. Avishek says that the revelations came after an ex-lover found out about the disease of this star after their affair and pressed charges against her in 2008 when he tested positive for HIV. Benaissa was therefore put in custody due to the risk of recidivism or to prevent her from infecting anyone else with the HIV. On Wednesday 15 April 2009, Connolly, a reporter of guardian.co.uk, reported that prosecutors confirmed that because of her involvement in affairs without using a condom, one of the men is believed to have become infected with the HIV. This very man also told BILD how he was intimate with Benaissa without using a condom. According to Khalid Schroeder, the band manager, Benaissa’s arrest is the result of a witch-hunt against her. She adds that Benaissa is being prejudged as there are no facts yet since the investigation is still going on. To her, this is unfair and Benaissa should be released as soon as possible. The other members of the band did not react on the accusations but revealed that they will continue performing as a group under the same name. On Thursday April 16, 2009, Moore reported that Benaissa’s legal team successfully filed an injunction on April 15 against the Springer publishing group, owners of newspapers WELT and BILD. They banned publication of the circumstances and the enquiry of Benaissa’s detention. Plainclothes police arrested Benaissa at a Frankfurt nightclub on Saturday evening where she was ready to give a solo concert. They handcuffed her backstage and took her away in an unmarked car. A judge issued a custody order the same evening and held her in a one-person cell in a womens prison near Frankfurt. In a statement, a spokesperson for the state

Old Elevators Research Proposal Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Old Elevators - Research Proposal Example s old elevators; this proposal is made taking into consideration the potential financial support of the state – especially if eco-friendly technology will be used (see the example of the ECO-Space EB technology supported by KONE, 2010). In the Canada’s economic Action Plan published recently by the government (see the website of the Department of Finance but also the Canada News Centre – government of Canada – where a similar initiative is promoted) it is made clear that a significant amount of money will be invested on the modernization and the update of the federal infrastructure – the University could be included in the specific program. It is proposed that the new elevators are of eco-friendly technology in order to guarantee the financial support of the state in their replacement; at the next level, a detailed project of the tasks required for the completion of this project will be submitted so that all funds necessary will be easily estimated in advance. Through this study the following benefits are expected to result: a) modernization of the University’s infrastructure without having to cover all expenses – since the state is expected to support the project, b) implementation of technology that is more friendly to the environment – this initiative could also urge other institutions and organizations across the country to proceed to a similar project. In order to complete this study, the following questions need to be answered: a) which will be the most appropriate technology for the specific organizational sector, i.e. which elevators would be appropriate for the specific environment – the needs of the University but also the market trends would be taking into consideration for replying to this question, b) which is the average cost of the new elevators – a market research should be developed for replying to this question, c) which would be the financial support of the state – i.e. would the state cover the whole cost or just part of

Obesity Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 9

Obesity - Essay Example Children and teenagers who are obese face a veer of probable health complications, as they grow older, as well as an amplified menace of diabetes, heart diseases, and some cancers. As if that is not adequate, obesity may negatively affect young people's long-term college and profession prospects, also. In the past few years, an irregular yet emergent body of research has recommended that obesity be coupled with poorer academic performance starting as early as kindergarten. Studies have variously discovered that obese pupils and especially girls tend to have poorer test scores as compared to their slimmer classmates, are more probable to be held back a grade, and are less expected to go on to higher learning levels like college. The most recent such research, put in print recently in the journal of Child Development, followed several kids from kindergarten in the course of fifth grade and discovered that those who were obese all the way through that episode scored poor on math tests t han their non-obese peers.

Finance- Global Stock Markets Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Finance- Global Stock Markets - Essay Example The Dow Jones low point was USD10,608 and its high point was USD 11,439 a fluctuation of only USD 831, or slightly less than 1%. The change from the first point (September 20) to the last date charted (November 22) was even lower. The Israeli stock exchange rose from USD 34,361 to USD 35, 348, an increase of USD 987. At the same time the Dow Jones rose from USD 10,608 to USD 11,083.75, an increase of only USD 475.75. This means that if an individual had invested USD 100,000 across the board in each stock exchange at the end of the period their Israeli investment would be worth USD 104,597.90 while their Dow Jones investment would have increased to USD 104, 484.80. Over a period of less than three months this is not an inconsiderable profit, particularly if it were to be increased by a factor of five to make it roughly equivalent to one year (as opposed to ten weeks). On the other hand, it demonstrates a remarkable disconnect between the markets and current events. This was no ordinary period in either the United States or Israel yet, viewed over two months, the stock exchanges slowly, but reasonably steadily, increased in value. In the United States a mid-term election campaign was waged, that included cataclysmic predictions of a Democrat debacle and featured the wild card of the tea partiers. In fact the Dow Jones increased steadily from September until the election: The campaign uncertainty and predictions of disaster for the Presidents party had no negative impact on the stock market. On October 28, 2010, only days before the election New York Times columnist Paul Krugman wrote, â€Å"future historians will probably look back at the 2010 election as a catastrophe for America, one that condemned the nation to years of political chaos and economic weakness.† His piece concluded with this warning: â€Å"So if the elections go as expected next week, here’s my advice: Be

Moral Development Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Moral Development - Essay Example Indeed, transparency is very significant in professional and working ethics where it reveals all actions, plans, motives, and data of individuals and organizations to the relevant stakeholders (Learn Well Resources, 2012, p.1). Where stakeholders may include shareholders of certain organizations the directors and management of such organizations should avail all information pertaining to the status of the organizations to enable the shareholders to make necessary decisions on the same. Additionally, transparency is a legal requirement that all organizations should adhere to enable the government make a financial follow up on public organizations. Lawrence Kohlberg is a scholar that concentrated on both psychology and philosophy. He put much emphasis on moral development and proposed a 6-stage theory of moral thinking that advances the Piaget’s theory on moral development. He relevantly interviewed both children and adolescents about moral dilemmas to deduce three levels of mor al development classified in six stages. The three Kohlberg’s levels of moral development include pre-conventional morality, conventional morality, and post-conventional morality levels (Crain, 2010, p.18-20). Level1. Pre-Conventional Morality The first stage of this level is the obedience and punishment orientation stage. According to Kohlberg, this stage is common with young children though adults can also express their reasoning at this stage. Children in this case obey rules in response to consequences of punishment involved. They do not do things because they are right but only obeys what the authorities’ permits. They do not have a societal voice but term morality as an external command from the adults. The second stage of this level is the individualism and exchange stage. At this stage, children value actions in relation to how they satisfy individual interests and not necessarily their morality. They recognize that there are varieties of right things permitted by the authorities with the best option serving one's own interests. Again, they realize that punishment from authorities or adults is just a natural risk that one needs to avoid. As such, their voice is still isolated from that of the society, as they do not identify with members of society (Crain, 2010, p.19-22). Level 2. Conventional Morality This level entails stage three of moral development that is interpersonal relationships. At this level, individuals seek to live up to social expectations and roles. This clearly affects the interpersonal relationship in a society depending on the choices different people make. At this stage, teens see morality as the way people should live and behave as expected by the family and society. They regard morality as having good motives and interpersonal feelings like compassion, kindness, love, and trust. Stage 4 involves maintaining social order. At this stage, individuals tend to consider the entire society while making personal judgments. T hey aim at being responsible, following set rules, and respecting the authorities with an aim of maintaining social order. This stage boils down to one-to one relationship where one considers the others feelings and offers help where they can (Crain, 2010, p.22-27). Level 3. Post conventional Morality This level entails stage five of moral development that involves social contract and individual rights. At this stage, individuals seek to accommodate others different opinions, values, and beliefs. They agree on rational standards to apply in the society. They adopt the common belief where all are entitled to benefit from what they do. Universal Principles is the last stage of moral development according to Kohlberg. He based it on universal ethical principles and abstract reasoning. This stage defines the

This is a group work. The part which I am doing is about HP.com. Look Essay

This is a group work. The part which I am doing is about HP.com. Look at Assignment criteria, and write in the form of 12 sub - Essay Example The company’s global operations have been said to e directed from California’s Palo Alto in the US, which is its headquarters. On the other hand, its US operations have often been directed from special facility within Texas’ unincorporated Harris County near Houston. The Latin American offices to this company are situated within Florida’s unincorporated Miami-Dade County, in Medellin Columbia near Miami (Hennessey and Jeannette, 2004). In Europe, its offices are in Switzerland’s Meyrin close to Geneva. In Asia-Pacific, its offices are located in Singapore. Moreover, it possesses large operations within Plano, Texas, San Diego, Colorado, Fort Collins, California, Roseville, Idaho and Boise. Within the United Kingdom, HP bases itself on a considerably large site within Bracknell, Berkshire with the offices having been located within several locations including a landmark tower office within London’s 88 Wood Street. The company’s websites is created to be accessed by every individual within the globe without any issues, with the delivery services being executed upon order from consumers. Overall Strategy HP’s recent strategic move might be referred to have been out rightly outstanding. Its decision to do away with the hardware systems and lay focus upon enterprise software, appropriately waved the white flag, as well as ceded the dramatically changing personal computing business into Apple when it made public its intentions of jettisoning its customer hardware division together with scrapping its poorly selling mobile product line so as to concentrate on business services (Dorfler & Heuveline, 2007). According to a variety of analysts, HP’s move seems to have been an original idea of an outsourcing powerhouse IBM, having continuously bundled the hardware that it no longer owns to its outsourcing deals. This has been considered HP’s ‘appropriate correction’ within the industry, exiti ng the markets where it could be attaining a hiding and concentrating on the enterprise clients that desire for alternatives to the giant powerhouse, IBM. In case it technically rids itself off the computer business, it might offer the customers who might be wary of outsourcer, thus pushing its own hardware an impression that it is vendor-agnostic (2007). Marketing Strategy The company seems to be taking transformative, bold steps in order to drive the creation of long term value of shareholders through a concentration of fewer fronts, thus improving its capability of executing, investing in innovation and driving a higher margin business mix. However, it is clear that actual transformation within the outsourcing industry calls for more than just shifting the dollars from hardware devices to software devices. Although laying focus on software and other services might not necessarily enhance those sectors in the future, but it enables the company to concentrate on a particular consum er base and fully satisfy their desires within an industry that is less saturated and less competitive; the outsourcing industry (Burkett, 2002). However, the move to outsource its business cannot guarantee that the company would not be faced any competition. In fact, stiff competition might be posed by the Indian based companies like Cognizant, Infosys and may others. In order to fight back, the company possesses a majority stake within Mphasis, the Indian IT service provider and could

Moral Development Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Moral Development - Essay Example Indeed, transparency is very significant in professional and working ethics where it reveals all actions, plans, motives, and data of individuals and organizations to the relevant stakeholders (Learn Well Resources, 2012, p.1). Where stakeholders may include shareholders of certain organizations the directors and management of such organizations should avail all information pertaining to the status of the organizations to enable the shareholders to make necessary decisions on the same. Additionally, transparency is a legal requirement that all organizations should adhere to enable the government make a financial follow up on public organizations. Lawrence Kohlberg is a scholar that concentrated on both psychology and philosophy. He put much emphasis on moral development and proposed a 6-stage theory of moral thinking that advances the Piaget’s theory on moral development. He relevantly interviewed both children and adolescents about moral dilemmas to deduce three levels of mor al development classified in six stages. The three Kohlberg’s levels of moral development include pre-conventional morality, conventional morality, and post-conventional morality levels (Crain, 2010, p.18-20). Level1. Pre-Conventional Morality The first stage of this level is the obedience and punishment orientation stage. According to Kohlberg, this stage is common with young children though adults can also express their reasoning at this stage. Children in this case obey rules in response to consequences of punishment involved. They do not do things because they are right but only obeys what the authorities’ permits. They do not have a societal voice but term morality as an external command from the adults. The second stage of this level is the individualism and exchange stage. At this stage, children value actions in relation to how they satisfy individual interests and not necessarily their morality. They recognize that there are varieties of right things permitted by the authorities with the best option serving one's own interests. Again, they realize that punishment from authorities or adults is just a natural risk that one needs to avoid. As such, their voice is still isolated from that of the society, as they do not identify with members of society (Crain, 2010, p.19-22). Level 2. Conventional Morality This level entails stage three of moral development that is interpersonal relationships. At this level, individuals seek to live up to social expectations and roles. This clearly affects the interpersonal relationship in a society depending on the choices different people make. At this stage, teens see morality as the way people should live and behave as expected by the family and society. They regard morality as having good motives and interpersonal feelings like compassion, kindness, love, and trust. Stage 4 involves maintaining social order. At this stage, individuals tend to consider the entire society while making personal judgments. T hey aim at being responsible, following set rules, and respecting the authorities with an aim of maintaining social order. This stage boils down to one-to one relationship where one considers the others feelings and offers help where they can (Crain, 2010, p.22-27). Level 3. Post conventional Morality This level entails stage five of moral development that involves social contract and individual rights. At this stage, individuals seek to accommodate others different opinions, values, and beliefs. They agree on rational standards to apply in the society. They adopt the common belief where all are entitled to benefit from what they do. Universal Principles is the last stage of moral development according to Kohlberg. He based it on universal ethical principles and abstract reasoning. This stage defines the

Boethius’ Consolation of Philosophy Essay Example for Free

Boethius’ Consolation of Philosophy Essay Hundreds of philosophers existed thousands of years ago. It was a time when the only leisure you could probably do was think, theorize, analyze and discover things. Obviously, two thousand years can change the habit of people and these days, thinking would take a lot of effort. The discovery of new things never stop as people have that urge to continue improves lives. In history and philosophy classes, great thinkers and philosophers were often studied. It is pretty amazing to read their works and come up with such incredible thoughts at that time. Often, they talk about leadership and politics. It was a time when countries are still developed and lands are yet to be discovered so a great leadership was very important. Although we would still analyze and review the philosophers’ works, more often their teachings cannot be applied to the current times. Sometimes change does not only involve technology and advancement, it can also apply to leadership and certain philosophical views. A great factor would involve the changing times. The lifestyle and the culture of the people are much different thousands of years ago. It was a time that women were limited to do domestic chores. Philosophers like Plato and Aristotle, wrote about what they of women during that time. It was probably a time when the role of women in the society is not defined. Of course, women nowadays are powerful and strong. They have created their mark in the society and gender bias in a lot of major industries is non-existent. That is why a lot of rules and laws cannot be applied to the world today. However, there are still some teachings that can be used up to now. These are the teachings that involve a great perspective in life. Sometimes, an illustrious perspective on life makes a person great. Anyway, the brain is the most powerful organ that is why the mind should take control of one’s lives. Teachings about life are very important that is why some philosophers and great thinkers are idolized and people formed a religion to continue preaching their teachings. One of the members of the long list of philosophers is Boethius. Although not as familiar as Aristotle and Plato, Anicius Manlius Severinus is the real name of this Roman philosopher but he was more famously known as Boethius. Boethius was born from a wealthy and educated family and like any other kids during that time; he studied poetry, mathematics and philosophy. Theodoric, the Gothic King ruling from Italy to Rome, appointed him court minister. Soon, his two sons became court ministers as well. He was a bold and brave man, with thoughts envied by a lot of people. His boldness is what brought him down as he became the object of vengeance of those oppressed. Boethius was known to check in the oppressions of some leaders. He was then accused of treason and was stripped of his dignities. In 524, he was executed in Pavia. While in prison, Boethius immersed himself in writing and there he wrote his greatest work. His masterpiece, The Consolation of Philosophy, talks about random thoughts about nature, justice and evil doings. The Consolation of Philosophy is a work mixed of prose and verse. It is a copy of Boethius conversation with Philosophy during the lonely years of the prisoners’ life. The work was theistic overall but it did not indicate whether the writer was Christian or not. In the Consolation of Philosophy, Philosophy showed Boethius how uncertain earthly fortune is and there is nothing more secure than virtue. Boethius was the last great Roman writer who translated Aristotle’s work. His translations were the sole means of studying Greek philosophy for a long time. His manuals on geometry, music, philosophy, arithmetic and astronomy were used in medieval schools. It may seem that Boethius may be having apparitions in his prison, but these visions came with a great message and a deeper insight. Boethius saw the reason behind his imprisonment and his conversations with Philosophy ended his misery and opened his eyes to better things, better perception. There was more to a great fortune and earthly things. It was probably some of the great things that Philosophy advised him that can still be applied up to the modern times. The first part of the book opens with Boethius having some afternoon thinking and writing when all of a sudden a woman appears in front of her. He described the woman as very beautiful and having a very powerful presence. He distinctively described her dress having embroidered the Greek letter Pi at the bottom and on the top hem, Theta. There was a ladder in between the two letters. She was holding books to her right hand and a scepter in the left. She was the Muse of Poetry. Boethius was currently having one of his many melancholy moments. Tears were trickling down Boethius’ eyes when the Muse of Poetry became angry. She was questioning the existence of sluts in Boethius’ place. She says that they only provide him temporary happiness that will not help him in his condition but instead will worsen it. The Muse of Poetry then pushed away the girls and they left in dismay. Boethius was teary-eyed as they left but eventually the Muse will explain why she did such thing (O’Donnell 21). The first part of the book shows how deserted Boethius feelings was in the prison that he tries to enjoy his self from getting temporary happiness. Apparitions or not, the Muse of Poetry shooed away the cause of all these but Boethius couldn’t help but feel terrible of her act he even questioned her authority. This lesson can still be applied to modern times. Often, when people have problems they are pushed to do band-aid solutions that will give them a short term solution to their problem. It is such an emotional thing to do that people do not even think of the long term effect or even the long term solution to their problem. A concrete example would be poverty. It is a sad fact that poor people are often pushed to do the bad thing. When a person is desperate to get food, he often steals. This solution just makes things more complicated as that person ends up ruining his life by spending it in jail. It is one of the many things that emotions take over and the mind stays behind. People often think of short-term solutions to their problems without considering the long-term consequences of these short-term solutions. The next stanza talks about how the Muse of Poetry consoled Boethius grieving soul. It was very well written with descriptions of how miserable Boethius has been. She assured Boethius that everything was going to be okay and that it was a time of healing not grieving. The Muse narrated how he brought up Boethius—being the great man that he is now. And although his situation may seem to be not bright, these too shall pass for the Muse is there to protect him and assure him that his virtues will prevail in this hardship (O’Donnell 24). This stanza was definitely was of the most touching part of the book. Really, this was the consolation of philosophy and one can’t help but feel for Boethius suffering. He was deprived of the life he deserved yet his imprisonment didn’t stop him from writing wonderful works. The second stanza also hints on the probable religion of the Philosopher—Christianity. The Muse somehow reminds me of Mother Mary and how she would protect her son from danger. It also signifies that the philosopher believes in a supernatural being that is more powerful than the earthly soul. Like any other human being, Boethius was going through probably the toughest battle in his life. And every human goes through that. No matter how driven or optimistic we are in our lives, there will always come a point that we want to give up. What the Muse was trying to communicate was that Boethius was born and made greater than his problems. And that does not exempt us. This made be theistic, but God won’t give us a problem that we could not bear. It is just normal that we feel like giving up at times especially when all hope’s lost but all we have to do is to stick to that goal and the universe will conspire to make life better for us. The next stanza talks about how the night ended and the day started with Boethius describing his physician examining him. The physician turned out to be Philosophy and she narrated how she has been with Boethius all along. She narrated how she started with Plato and Socrates and how she has turned out to be what she is now. She explained to Boethius how she has been taking care of him all throughout his life. The next stanza narrates his conversation with Philosophy. She tested him of the things he knew and welcomed him of her questions. The first thing that Philosophy asked him was if believed that life is full of chances. And he bluntly answered that God governs his creations and everything happens for a reason and he will never abandon His creation. The Philosophy then asked him why he was in such grief when he believes that God knows the best for him. By then, the writer was dumbstruck for he did not know the answer. The Philosophy knew something was missing and she was right. Boethius soon confessed that he was overpowered by grief. He knew the answer but he was just miserable to realize that the answer was just right in front of him. Philosophy then declared that the reason of his sickness is his grief and it was he who created all of those (O’Donnell 28). The following lines were so powerful that one cannot help but relate to Boethius’ situation. Pretty sure every one has gone through that pain. It was a feeling of emptiness and pity. It was as if the world has gone against us and everything is so not going our way. At the back of our minds, we know that something great is lurking around. We just have to be patient as good things come to those who wait. It was also just a matter of believing and working for whatever it that we want. It was a matter of realizing that we are in control of our lives—through God’s guidance that is. In general, the teachings of Philosophy can definitely still be applied to modern times. We all go through trials no matter what time or age we may be. It is just a matter of perspective. And although Boethius didn’t have any material thing left for him, it was his virtue that was more important than anything else. And that applies to all of us as well. Work Cited O’Donell, J. Life of Boethius. Pennsylvania: University of Pennsylvania. Pages, 1996.

Transportation And Communication In Pakistan Economics Essay

Transportation And Communication In Pakistan Economics Essay In Pakistan there are 96 roads of inland freight and 92 of passenger traffic and undoubtedly the backbone of Pakistans economy. Current road network of Pakistan is about 2,60,000 km which caters services to 11 million vehicles of all type and also NHA roads network is around 12,000 km, which is merely 4% of the overall road network but takes 80% of Pakistans commercial traffic. In Pakistan NHA has completed 12 projects of flyovers, bridges, interchanges and road up gradation during the last one year at a cost of Rs. 19.6 billion. At present, 46 development projects having length of 2,985 km are ongoing at a cost Rs. 245 billion in different sections/packages. All the 46 development projects include construction of roads, river Bridger, tunnels, flyovers, interchanges. In Pakistan during the current financial year, NHA has launched/awarded 16 new development projects covering a length of above 500 km inclusive construction of a number of bridges, flyovers and interchanges costing Rs. 70,951 million. NHA is simultaneously constructing 12 Bridges across the rivers. These are; on rivers Chenab 4, on rivers Sutlej 2, on river swan 1 and 5 on river Indus. Heavy rains and floods severely damaged the transport and communication system during last 2 years and preliminary estimates indicate that road approximately 8,385 km and 190 km railway lines were damaged including bridges and allied structures. In Pakistan Telecommunication infrastructure includes damages to cellular sites, exchange centres, equipment, power system and supporting civil works is amounting to $1.9 million. Ministry of Railways has also adopted a Track Access Policy for private sector participation to operate freight and passenger trains on Pakistan infrastructure and they also created a Real Estate Development and Marketing Company as subsidiary of Ministry of Railways. There are six factories including Locomotive Factory Risalpur, Carriage Factory Islamabad, and four concrete Sleeper Factories in Kohat, khanewal, sukkur, are Kotri, are being corporatized for eventual privatization subject to approval of the government. Pakistan cabinet committee of restructuring has approved a restructuring framework for their Railways and also during the last financial year, 16 kms of track was rehabilitated on Pakistan Railways network besides doubling more than 15 kms of track. There are 52 new design passenger coaches were imported from China at a cost of Rs. 4.1 billion. Remaining 150 passengers coaches will be manufactured at Pakistan railways carriage factory Islamabad by June 30, 2013. 22 passengers coaches have been rehabilitated at Pakistan Railway Carriage Factory Islamabad during last year. There is a new dry port was set up at Prem Nagar near Raiwind industrial area, Lahore through public private partnership at a cost of Rs. 494.0 million. International Airlines Corporation of Pakistan earned increased revenue amounting to Rs. 116.02 billion in year 2011 as compared to 107 billion last year. A purchase agreement of 5 Boeings 777 has been signed. In Pakistan two new destinations have been introduced during the year 2011: Karachi Madina and Quetta Zahedan and also there are three new routes were introduced during the year 2011: Peshawar Kaula Lumpur, Sialkot-Riyadh and Sialkot-Dammam. In Pakistan Karachi port trust handled cargo 27.8 million tonnes during the first 9 months current fiscal year. In Pakistan consolidated revenues of PNSC group during July-March 2011-12 were Rs. 6,640 million as compared to Rs. 6772 million last year and also the corporation intends to acquire four vessels through commercial loan/joint venture basis. In Pakistan acquisition of two vessels in process, while two more vessels will be acquired in next financial year. In Pakistan the Total cargo handled on Gawadar port up till now is 4.1 million tones while Gawadar Portearned total revenue since its start of operation amounting to Rs. 53.4 million and also in the Port Qasim Authority handled a cargo volume 19.7 million tones during July-March 2011-12. The volume of cargo importduring July-March 2011-12 stood at 14.7 million tones, and alsoexports handled 4.9 million tones during July-March 2011-12. Pakistan Ministry of Communications has prepared a draft National Transport Policy which coversall modes of transport sectors i.e. (i) Roads, (ii) Railways, (iii) Ports Shipping and this policy also includes the National Transport Corridor Improvement Program(NTCIP). This programme has been launched in the country to revamp the whole transportsector including ports, roads, railway etc. and provides a frame work to developand improve the North South corridor. In Pakistan mobile penetration rose 64.9percent in 2011-12 against 60.4percent in 2010-11 whichshows an improvement of 4.3 percentage points in total teledensity. So due to mobile substitution in pakistan, Fixed Local Loop teledensity has been declining over the yearsand it stands now at 1.93 percent compared to 2.1 percent last year showing a decrease of 0.17%. There is the total mobile subscribers reached 118.3 million by the end of March 2012 as compared to 108.9 million last year in pakistan and subscribers of Local Loop (FLL + WLL) reached at 5.93 million, out of which 3.10 million belong to FLL and 2.83 million belong to WLLin these nation. The broadband subscribers reached 1.9 million at the end of February 2012 in pakistan because of that the revenues of the telecom sector during the 2011-12, standing at Rs. 363 billion compared to the last year 344.2 billion show an increase of 5.4 percent. In the last year 2011, telecom sector invested US$ 495.8 million with cellular mobile sector being the major contributor.and also telecom sector attracted over US$ 79 million Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the country which is about 5 percent of the total FDI landed in Pakistan in 2011. In pakistan the Auction of 3G licenses is expected which will bring more FDI in the country. Telecommunication Authority and the State Bank of Pakistan have signed a memorandum of Understanding (MoU) both the institutions have shown their interest and commitment in stimulating mobile banking services in the country. In pakistan cumulative investment of approximately US $ 2.5 billion in the electronic media industry. Because of cumulative invesment new jobs to more than 200,000 people of diversified skills and qualifications have been provided. In addition, over seven million people have been accommodated through indirect employment. In pakistan with the current growth rate of more than seven percent per annum, it is estimated that the cumulative investment in the electronicmedia industry will reach above $ 3.0 billion by the end of the current financial year. There is also a PBC External Services, broadcast programmes for 08 hrs daily in 11 foreign languagescovering Afghanistan, Iran, China, India, Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka in pakistan. The total Central Production Units (CPU) produce music, drama, features, documentaries and programmes for special occasions. CPU has over 2 million minutes recording in itsarchives which are being digitized in the country. In these country the PBC News is putting on air 117 News bulletins daily.it includes National, Regional, External and Local News bulletins besides resume of National Assembly and Senate. These PBC news launched broadcast FATA News, special news bulletins from PBC Hyderabad onrain/ flood situation and ongoing rescue and relief activities in Urdu and Sindhi languages. These countrys Post provides services through a network of 12,035 (1,797 urban and 10,238 rural)post offices across the country. The total money orders of Benazir Income Support Programme amounting to Rs.16,642.0 millionhave been paid within prescribed period of time. There is also 55 Small and Smart Express Centres have been set up in the urban areas. In Pakistan during the period July-March 2011-12 an amount of Rs. 160,266.9 million has been Collected through National Savings Schemes and earned commission amounting to Rs. 801.3 million During this period. Energy In these country of pakistan the primary energy supply during current year is 64.52 million TOE compared to 63.09 million TOE last year thus showing an increase of 2.3 percent. The availability of energy per capita in 2011 remained 0.372 Tone Oil Equivalent TOE compared to 0.371 Tone Oil Equivalent (TOE) in 2010 posting a positive growth rate of 0.16%. In Pakistan the average crude oil production during July-March 2011-12 remained 66,032 barrels per day as against 65997 barrels per day during the corresponding period of last year, showing an increase of 0.05%. In Pakistan the industrial sector had shown positive growth of 24.2% in the consumption of petroleum products during July-March 2011-12 when compared with last year. The Transport sector in this country surprisingly showed a relative small growth of 3.5 percent in the consumption of petroleum products as consumption of petroleum product in transport sector remained 6,832.9 million tones during July-March 2011-12 compared to 6,599.1 million tones during corresponding period last year in Pakistan. The total consumption of petroleum products in the power sector was 8,139 million tons compared to 8,814 million tones last year which hampered the growth in this sector, thus posting negative growth of 5.2 percent in this sector in this country. In the gas sector of Pakistan supply increased by 4.9 percent in July-March 2011-12 as the average production of natural gas was 4236.06 million cubic feet per day during this period while it was 4,050.83 million cubic feet per day in corresponding period last year. In Pakistan the natural gas in the form of CNG posted a positive growth 10.8% during July-March 2011-12. There is a total contribution of Hydel in electricity generation increased to 33.6% in 2010-11 in this country. In Pakistan Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) remained the main contributor to electricity generation with 48.7% coming from this source. Karachi Electricity Supply Corporation (KESC), Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC), Kot Addu Power Company (KAPCO) and the Hub Power Company (HUBCO) have 8.3, 3.6, 6.2 and 9.1%, respectively. In Pakistan the Independent Power Producers (IPPs) have contributed almost 25%. Water and Power Development Authority is executing, on priority basis, the projects such as 969 MW-Neelum Jhelum, 1410 MW-Tarbela 4th Extension, 7100 MW-Bunji, 4320 MW-Dasu, 740-MW Munda Dam and most mentionable 4500 MW-Diamer Bhasha Dam projects, to cope with the increasing demand of power in this country. There is almost 96% work on the main dam at Mangla, spillway and allied facilities had been completed and resettlement work is in progress. Likewise 99.7 percent work on Satpara and 72.1% on Gomal Zam dam has been completed. In this country there is one of the beneficiaries of Tetra-partner power import project under the head of Central Asia-South Asia (CASA-1000) electricity trade. In Pakistan the household sector consumed 44% of the total electricity generated followed by industrial (26%), government (12.3%), agriculture (10.4%) and commercial (6.8%) during July-March 2011-12. In Pakistan the major users of coal are the cement sector and brick kilns; about 60% of total coal is consumed by cement while 39 percent is consumed by the brick kiln industry during current year as compared to 62% consumption of coal in cement industry and 37% in brick kiln industry last year. Safety In Pakistan Health situations at household level has registered an improvement, in terms of 66% of population using flush toilets compared to 63% in 2008-09, because of that it creates a good and healthy environment. In this country Benazir Income Support Program launched by the government with the primary objective of providing immediate relief to poor people. Benazir Income Support Program has made remarkable progress by providing much needed relief to over 4 million recipients including Internally Displaced Persons and bomb blast victims all over Pakistan. In this country Rs. 122 billion up to March, 2012 have been disbursed to its beneficiaries. Benazir Income Support Program has an allocation of Rs 50 billion for the financial year 2011-12. Benazir Income Support Program recipients are expected to be increased to 7 million once the on-going processing of data collection during the nation-wide poverty scorecard targeting survey is finished. Benazir Income Support Program has launched a number of programs of society safety including (i) Payment to Recipients, (ii) Graduation Initiatives, (iii) Waseela-e-Haq, (iv) Waseela-e-Rozgar, (v) Waseela-e-Sehat and (vi) Waseela-e-Taleem. This countrys poverty Alleviation Fund is dedicated for micro credit, enterprise growth, community based infrastructure and energy projects, maintenance enhancement and protection, social mobilization, and capacity building. The overall disbursements for core operations during the period of July- December 2012 are Rs. 8,490 million. Pakistan Bait-ul-Mal is making a important contribution in poverty decrease by providing support to destitute, Widows, Orphans, and other needy. Rs. 1777.50 million has been utilized up to Feb. 2012 on many schemes. Zakat funds have been utilized for assistance to the needy, indigent, poor, orphans, widows and handicapped. Up to March, 2012 Rs. 7800.27 million have been spread in bulk amongst the provinces. In this country Peoples Works program (PWP) I II are providing electricity, gas, farm to market roads and other services to the rural poor. PWP-I II incurred expenditures of Rs. 5 billion and Rs 21.30 billion during 2010-11 respectively whereas Rs 2.20 billion expenses have been incurred between July-December 2011-12 on Peoples Works program -I and Rs 2.90 billion expenditures on Peoples Works program -II. In Pakistan Employees Old Age Benefits Institution provided profits to the old age workers through Old Age Pension, Inaccuracy Pension, Stayers Pension and Old Age Grants and Rs. 7961.20 million has been developed during July- March 2011-12. In this country Workers Welfare Fund utilized Rs. 2539 million during July-March 2011-12 for housing services and Marriage Grant, Death Grant and Scholarships etc. for the industrial workers. In Pakistan Government has also taken various micro-finance initiatives in collaboration with all stakeholders to create employment occasions and to eliminate poverty. Environment In Pakistan a number of projects have been funded by the government to deal with growing environmental degradation and also there are number of projects funded by the donors in which the government is a partner. All these projects are being currently implemented to develop overall atmosphere in the country. In Pakistan climate change is a zone that has become progressively important in recent years. In this regard, the National Climate Change Policy 2011 provides a outline for addressing the issues that Pakistan faces or will face in future due to the changing climate. The goal of the National Climate Change Policy is to ensure that climate change is mainstreamed in the economically and socially helpless sectors of the economy and to steer Pakistan towards climate resilient development. In Pakistan Urban air pollution remains one of the most important environmental problems, facing the cities. In Pakistan extensive body of research exhibits that high attentions of suspended particulate matter adversely affect human health; prolong a wide range of respiratory infections and increased the probability of heart diseases. In this country the higher attention of suspended particulate matter (SPM) in the air is a major issue. In Pakistan the main sources of suspended particulate matter are vehicular emission, industrial emissions, burning of Solid waste, pollens and natural dust. Motorcycles and rickshaws, due to their two stroke (2-strokes) engines, are the most ineffective in burning fuel and contribute most to productions. In this country the situation of access to drinking water is quite extraordinary. In this country according to Pakistan Bureau of Statistics report (PBS) Pakistan Social and Living Standards Measurement (PSLM) Survey 2010-11, access to drinking water to urban and rural population of Pakistan is 94 and 84%, with an average of 87 % in 2011. In Pakistan hygiene facilities are improving. However, much improvement is needed for rural areas hygiene facilities. According to Pakistan Social and Living Standards Measurement Survey 2007-08,the garbage collection facilities to the population is only 14% done through municipalities, 7% through confidentially managed and remaining 79% have no system. In Pakistan according to a report released by the WHO/UNICEF Joint Monitoring Program (JMP) 2012, 92% people had enlarged access to drinking water by 2010 while this ratio was 85% and 89% in 1990 and 2000 respectively. In Pakistan the MDG aim is to achieve the ratio of 93% by 2015. Moreover, 48% people have been using better sanitation by 2010 while this ratio was 27% and 37% in 1990 and 2000 respectively and also the MDG target for access to sanitation is 90% by 2015. In Pakistan damage and need assessment report jointly prepared by the Asian Development Bank and the World Bank regarding overflows 2011, it has been pointed out that in addition to beginning loss of life, movement of millions, and huge losses to the economy, the floods in 2011 have also resulted in environmental harms, heightened environmental health risks and affected forests, swamps and other natural systems. In this country the Environmental damage caused by floods has been estimated at Rs. 2763 million (US $ 31.8 million) and Green reconstruction needs has been estimated at Rs. 2874 million (US $ 33.02 million). Flood Impact Assessment In this nation Simple monsoon rains triggered floods in Southern Pakistan at an extraordinary scale, both in terms of size and strength, swamping all 23 districts of Sindh Province and connecting areas of northern Baluchistan Province. In Pakistan Approximately, 9.6 million people were affected in Sindh and Baluchistan as a result of the floods; 520 people died and more than 1180 people were injured and also according to World Bank and Asian Development Bank report, 27,000 sq. km. area damaged in Sindh province out of the total 27,370 sq. km. There is also the flood caused total or partial damages to an estimated 998,376 housing units in Sindh and Baluchistan so that it causes the overall economy of the country. In Pakistan the highest cause occurred in the agriculture, livestock and fisheries sector, has been estimated at Rs.160 billion because of the flood and also the total damage caused by 2011 floods has been expected amounting to Rs.324.50 billion. In Pakistan the total cost of recovery and re-establishment needs has been estimated at Rs.239 billion.

Turns and Twists in Flannery OConnors A Good Man Is Hard to Find Essa

Turns and Twists in Flannery O'Connor's A Good Man Is Hard to Find Irony is a useful tool for giving stories unexpected turns and twists. In Flannery O'Connor's "A Good Man Is Hard to Find," irony is used as a very effective literary tool; to guide the story in and out of what we think will happen. O'Connor uses irony in this story to contradict statements and situations to expose a truth very much different from what "we" the reader would think to be true. O'Connor use irony in several different forms, situational irony, dramatic irony and verbal irony to make the story unpredictable and interesting to read. In most every aspect of the story from beginning to end there is some type of ironic twist. The title itself is some what ironic, where in a normal society a "good man" would be seen as a man that obeys laws and is kind to fellow humans not as a murderer and an escaped convict like the Misfit. But the grandmother in the story while her family is being taken way to be killed says, using verbal irony, "I know you're a good man ... You're not a bit common (335)." The main character in the story is the grandmother in which O'Connor uses her for almost every ironic situation. In the beginning of the story O'Connor uses the idea that "we" the reader have of what a grandmother would be like to unfold a story that is nothing like what "we" would perceive a grandmother to be like. This type of irony is situational irony; this is used throughout the story and literature. It is the contrast between what happens and what was expected to happen or what would seem appropriate to have happen, or an appropriate way for a character to act versus the way they do act. If a story started out using a character that's a professiona... ... She uses cosmic irony; a type of irony that goes beyond being unfair and is morally tragic, as the main setting for the story, you may not be able to see it right away but the undertone are there. Such irony is often so harsh that it causes people to question God, like the grandmother does near the end of the story, "'That's when you should have started to pray...If you would pray,' the old lady said, `Jesus would help you. (336-337)" The irony in this story reaches such a tragic state that as expected it may suggest to the characters in the story and even the reader that people could just be pawns in the hands of mysterious forces or fate. Works Cited: O'Connor, Flannery "A Good Man Is Hard to Find." Making Literature Matter: An Anthology for Readers and Writers. Ed. John Schilb and John Clifford. 2nd ed. Boston: Bedford/ St. Martin's. 2003. 1379-1391.

Essay --

While the so-called religious issue is necessarily and properly the chief topic here tonight, I want to emphasize from the outset that we have far more critical issues to face in the 1960 election; the spread of Communist influence, until it now festers 90 miles off the coast of Florida--the humiliating treatment of our President and Vice President by those who no longer respect our power--the hungry children I saw in West Virginia, the old people who cannot pay their doctor bills, the families forced to give up their farms--an America with too many slums, with too few schools, and too late to the moon and outer space. These are the real issues which should decide this campaign. And they are not religious issues--for war and hunger and ignorance and despair know no religious barriers. But because I am a Catholic, and no Catholic has ever been elected President, the real issues in this campaign have been obscured--perhaps deliberately, in some quarters less responsible than this. So it is apparently necessary for me to state once again--not what kind of church I believe in, for that should be important only to me--but what kind of America I believe in. I believe in an America where the separation of church and state is absolute--where no Catholic prelate would tell the President (should he be Catholic) how to act, and no Protestant minister would tell his parishoners for whom to vote--where no church or church school is granted any public funds or political preference--and where no man is denied public office merely because his religion differs from the President who might appoint him or the people who might elect him. I believe in an America that is officially neither Catholic, Protestant nor Jewish--where no public offici... ...h favor upon those who would work to subvert Article VI of the Constitution by requiring a religious test--even by indirection--for it. If they disagree with that safeguard they should be out openly working to repeal it. I want a Chief Executive whose public acts are responsible to all groups and obligated to none--who can attend any ceremony, service or dinner his office may appropriately require of him--and whose fulfillment of his Presidential oath is not limited or conditioned by any religious oath, ritual or obligation. This is the kind of America I believe in--and this is the kind I fought for in the South Pacific, and the kind my brother died for in Europe. No one suggested then that we may have a "divided loyalty," that we did "not believe in liberty," or that we belonged to a disloyal group that threatened the "freedoms for which our forefathers died." Essay -- While the so-called religious issue is necessarily and properly the chief topic here tonight, I want to emphasize from the outset that we have far more critical issues to face in the 1960 election; the spread of Communist influence, until it now festers 90 miles off the coast of Florida--the humiliating treatment of our President and Vice President by those who no longer respect our power--the hungry children I saw in West Virginia, the old people who cannot pay their doctor bills, the families forced to give up their farms--an America with too many slums, with too few schools, and too late to the moon and outer space. These are the real issues which should decide this campaign. And they are not religious issues--for war and hunger and ignorance and despair know no religious barriers. But because I am a Catholic, and no Catholic has ever been elected President, the real issues in this campaign have been obscured--perhaps deliberately, in some quarters less responsible than this. So it is apparently necessary for me to state once again--not what kind of church I believe in, for that should be important only to me--but what kind of America I believe in. I believe in an America where the separation of church and state is absolute--where no Catholic prelate would tell the President (should he be Catholic) how to act, and no Protestant minister would tell his parishoners for whom to vote--where no church or church school is granted any public funds or political preference--and where no man is denied public office merely because his religion differs from the President who might appoint him or the people who might elect him. I believe in an America that is officially neither Catholic, Protestant nor Jewish--where no public offici... ...h favor upon those who would work to subvert Article VI of the Constitution by requiring a religious test--even by indirection--for it. If they disagree with that safeguard they should be out openly working to repeal it. I want a Chief Executive whose public acts are responsible to all groups and obligated to none--who can attend any ceremony, service or dinner his office may appropriately require of him--and whose fulfillment of his Presidential oath is not limited or conditioned by any religious oath, ritual or obligation. This is the kind of America I believe in--and this is the kind I fought for in the South Pacific, and the kind my brother died for in Europe. No one suggested then that we may have a "divided loyalty," that we did "not believe in liberty," or that we belonged to a disloyal group that threatened the "freedoms for which our forefathers died."

“That’s Not My Job” †Learning Delegation at Cin-Made

â€Å"THAT'S NOT MY JOB† – LEARNING DELEGATION AT CIN-MADE When Robert Frey purchased Cin – Made in 1984, the company was near ruin. The Cincinnati, Ohi-based manufacturer of paper packaging had not altered its product line in 20 years. Labor costs had hit the ceiling, while profits were falling through the floor. A solid quarter of the company's shipments were late and absenteeism was high. Management and workers were at each other's throats. Ten years later, Cin – Made is producing a new assortment of highly differentiated composite cans, and pre-tax profits have increased more than five times. The Cin – Made workforce is both flexible and deeply committed to the success of the company. On-time delivery of products has reached 98 percent, and absenteeism has virtually disappeared. There are even plans to form two spin – off companies to be owned and operated by Cin-Made employees. In fact, at the one day â€Å"Future of the American Workforce† conference held in July 1993, Cin-Made was recognized by President Clinton as one of the best – run companies in the United States. â€Å"How did we achieve this startling turnaround? †    Mused Frey. â€Å"Employee empowerment is one part of the answer. Profit sharing is another. †   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In the late spring of 1986, relations between management and labor had reached rock bottom. Having recently suffered a pay cut, employees at Cin- Made came to work each day, performed the duties required of their particular positions, and returned home-nothing more. Frey could see that his company was suffering. â€Å"To survive we needed to stop being worthy adversaries and start being worthy partners,† he realized. Toward this end, Frey decided to call a meeting with the union. He offered to restore worker pay to its previous level by the end of the year. On top of that, he offered  something no one expected: a 15 percent share of Cin-Made's pre-tax profits. † I do not choose to own a company that has an adversarial relationship with its employees. † Frey proclaimed at the meeting. He therefore proposed a new arrangement that would encourage a collaborative employee-management relationship â€Å"Employee participation will play an essential role in management. †   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Managers within the company were among the first people to oppose Frey's new idea of employee involvement. â€Å"My three managers felt they were paid to be worthy adversaries of the unions.    Frey recalled. It's what they'd been trained for. It's what made them good managers. Moreover, they were not used to participation in any form, certainly not in decision making. †    The workers also resisted the idea of extending themselves beyond the written requirements of their jobs. † (Employees) wan ted generous wages and benefits, of course, but they did not want to take responsibility for anything more than doing their own jobs the way they had always done them,† Frey noted. Employees were therefore skeptical of Frey's overtures toward â€Å"employee participation.   Ã‚   â€Å"We thought he was trying to rip us off and shaft us,† explained Ocelia Williams, one of many Cin-Made employees who distrusted Frey's plans. Frey, however, did not give up, and he eventually convinced the union to agree to his terms. † I wouldn't take no for an answer,† he asserted. â€Å"Once I had made my two grand pronouncements, I was determined to press ahead and make them come true. †    But still ahead lay the considerable challenge of convincing employees to take charge   :   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   I made people meet with me, then instead   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Of telling them what to do, I asked them. They resisted. † How can we cut the waste on his run ? † I'd   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   say, or â€Å"How are we going to allocate the overtime on this order ? † â€Å"That's not my job,† they'd say. â€Å"But I need your input,† I'd say. â€Å"How in the   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   World can we have participative management   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   If you won't participate? â€Å"I don't know,† they'd say. â€Å"Because that's   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   not my job either. That's your job. ?† Gradually, Frey made progress. Managers began sharing more information with employees. Frey was able slowly to expand the responsibilities workers would carry. Managers who were unable to work with employees left, and union relations began to improve. Empowerment began to happen. By 1993, Cin Made employees were taking responsibility for numerous tasks. Williams, for example, used to operate a tin-slitting machine on the company's factory floor. She still runs that same machine, but now is also responsible for ordering almost $ 100,000 in supplies. Williams is just one example of how job roles and duties have been redefined throughout Cin-Made. Joyce Bell, president of the local union, still runs the punch press she always has, but now also serves as Cin- Made's corporate safety director. The company's scheduling team, composed of one manager and five lead workers from various plant areas, is charged with setting hours, designating layoffs, and deciding when temporary help is needed. The hiring review team, staffed by three hourly employees and two managers, is responsible for interviewing applicants and deciding whom to hire. An employee committee performs both short – and long – term planning of labor, materials, equipment, production runs, packing, and delivery. Employees even meet daily in order to set their own production schedules. â€Å"We empower employees to make decisions, not just have input,† Frey remarked. â€Å"I just coach. †   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Under Frey's new management regime, company secrets have virtually disappeared. All Cin-Made employees, from entry-level employees all the way to the top, take part in running the company. In fact, Frey has delegated so much of the company's operations to its workers that he now feels little in the dark. â€Å"I now know very little about what's going on, on a day-to-day basis,† he confessed. At Cin-Made, empowerment and delegation are more than mere buzzwords; they are the way of doing business – good business. â€Å"We, as workers, have a lot of opportunities,† said Williams. â€Å"If we want to take leadership, it's offered to us. † Questions and answers: Q. 1   How were principles of delegation and decentralization incorporated into Cine – Made operations? Answer :- a. The employee participation was made an integral part of the company's management practices. b. Establishing Participative Management c. Centralized hiring process which was independent in itself and managed by esignated managers. Q. 2  Ã‚   What are the sources and uses of power at Cin – Made? Answer : Collaboration, Innovation, Participative management Empowerment through delegation and decentralization Deriving more output through employees' sense of ownership for their actions Improving flexibility of the companies' employees. Giving a free hand to their imagina tion rather than reining it in. Q. 3. What were some of the barriers to delegation and empowerment at Cin –Made? Answer : Our perceptions about work and the way we are part of it need to change. These are the lessons in management that can be learnt from the Cin-Made experience. a. Transparent management policies are the call of the day b. Managers must lead by example rather than simply lecturing and ordering the employees. c. Any status quo achieved or stagnation point reached by way of policies being in place for long term must be challenged and remedied with cautious efforts; that to while taking care of sentimentalities and emotional attachments of old employees of company – all leading to change for the better.