Analysis on Blackfish Essay

Introduction: Sea World is a place for people to get a splash of happiness and amusement watching whales do intricate tricks but is the fact that the Orcas are held in captivity and unhappy worth that splash of amusment. The case of â€Å"Blackfish† deals with the captivity of Orca Whales in Sea World and the bill being put up in California to ban the captivity and breeding of Orcas called the California Captive Orca Welfare and Safety Act (Sanchez, 2014). A documentary produced by Magnolia Films about the â€Å"Blackfish† case and the danger of Orcas being in captivity lead to a menacing effect on the image of Sea World. Description: In 2010, a trainer who worked for Sea World, Dawn Brancheau was killed by one of the show whales in Sea World [Tilikum] which set off this controversy and the realization that Orcas should not be kept in captivity (Zurko, 2014). In the documentary â€Å"Blackfish† that was released in July of 2013, it expresses that when Orcas are h eld in detention and bred within such confinement they grow unhappy and aggressive. Orcas are used to living in open waters and that’s where they are happiest, being so detained makes them unhappy to the point where they get aggressive towards those trainers who they know have a part in keeping them imprisoned. They lash out towards the trainers, not because they are dangerous creatures, because they are desperate for a normal healthy life back in the open waters. Because Tili attacked Brancheau, it lead to the beliefs that the title of killer whales was a literal title, when in reality their anger is due to the face they are in captive in the park. Animals are adapted to the environment they were intended, Orcas are used to living free in open waters being able to communicate with other animals in the ocean (Sanchez, 2014). The captivity of the orcas has shortened their lifespan because they are unable to live the way that they should. Interpretation: The image of Sea World has been totally turned around since the â€Å"Blackfish† case has escalated into the media forming a new image for the company. Identity is when a company’s reality is exposed through evidence, such as the services they provide, from the company, whereas image is a tangent of identity where it is the refl ection of the organization’s identity. In  relation to â€Å"Blackfish† the way the trainers and the company of Sea World treat the orcas has been exposed to the public altering the image of the company. Sea World used to be viewed as a place for families to go and enjoy watching trained Orcas do awesome tricks and entertain their audiences, where now it is seen as a place where animals are mistreated and held captive. Evaluation: This captivity is a huge controversy building up to protests against Sea World and leading to the bill put up by California to ban the act of keeping Orcas that were caught from the wild and keep them in captivity. Though there are Sea Worlds in Texas and Florida, the bill will immediately affect the California Sea World (Rohenkohl, 2014). If the bill were to pass, California would have to find a new way to entertain their guests or breed orcas that are not wildly caught (Martinez, 2014). The documentary, â€Å"Blackfish† caused much controversy and threatened the image of the Sea World Company. Conclusion: It would make a person wonder, if Brancheau was not attacked, would the true identity of Sea World been exposed? The image of Sea World being a happy escape has been reformed due to the fact that Orca’s being detained was proven to be a problem and a danger to not only to the trainers, but to the Orcas themselves. Orcas deserve to live in the open waters, free, and live the life span they are intended and not be confined within the tiny pools of Sea World. California may be the first to make a difference in Orca’s lives, now the rest of the world can be a part of the change. Annotation of Information Sources Martinez, Michael. (2014, March 8). Seaworld ‘Blackfish’ backlash: Richard Bloom calls for banning orca shows. Retrieved from http://www.wptv.com/news/state/seaworld-blackfish-backlash-richard-bloom-calls-for-banning-orca-shows

Current Event Fashion Ysl

Paige Restivo Fashion Fundamentals Assignment #2 Current Event Yvan Mispelaere Out as DVF Creative Director September 12, 2012 â€Å"After two-and-a-half years as creative director at Diane von Furstenberg, Yvan Mispelaere is out the door. † (Rosemary Feitelberg) The article I haven chosen was published during fashion week shortly after the DVF spring 2013 runway show. It grabbed my attention because the title claiming creative director Yvan was gone and I knew that the show had just went on. His departure was announced 48 hours after the show.Mispelaere had worked with many designers before DVF, such as Yves Saint Laurent, Chloe, Valentino, Luis Feraud and Gucci just before DVF in march. He was very talented but never known for sticking to one project. Mispelaere was in for the challenge of it, he said earlier in the week, â€Å"I came to DVF to help further the brand’s mission and create a world-class design team. I am confident we have been able to achieve that duri ng my time with the company. I can’t thank Diane enough for the opportunity to work with her and such talented people. The group is now well-positioned for even greater success, and I am eager to take on my next challenge. . I noticed a significant up bringing in Diane von Furstenberg's line shortly after Yvan had joined the team, in past years DVF had been known but not the way it is now. Yvan Mispelaere felt his job was done and it was time for time next. I think the most propionate points of this article was when press had asked von Furstenberg to comment on behalf of his departure nothing but kind words were said. Von Furstenberg thinks he added â€Å"enormous value†, and is more than thankful to have had him join the team to help further them in each direction.Even though Yvan Mispealere had left DVF without a creative director, they are not eager to replace him just yet. Thankfully shortly before Yvan leaving DVF, they had just signed on Joel Horowitz as co-chair man. Down one man, but still have another to help run things smoothly. They are determined to keep DVF growing and becoming more of a world class brand. I enjoyed reading this article because I think drama in the fashion world is interesting, but shortly after analyzing this article I realized there actually wasn't any major drama.Yvan would move on to his next big project, and Diane von Furstenberg was just happy to have had him to help. Closing this article was a comment by von Furstenberg – â€Å"I hope Yvan will immediately put his signature on the collection, I’m curious to see his slant. But it will still be DVF. † Rosemary Feitelberg (2012). Yvan Mispelaere Out as DVF Creative Director. [ONLINE] Available at: http://www. wwd. com/fashion-news/designer-luxury/yvan-mispelaere-out-as-dvf-creative-director-6274810. [Last Accessed September 14, 2012].

Country of origin labeling Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Country of origin labeling - Research Paper Example On September 2008, The United States Congress expanded the provisions of the COOL law and added more food items like fresh fruits and vegetables under the jurisdiction of this law. This paper will discuss the Country of Origin Labeling law, its advantages, and disadvantages. Country of Origin Labeling (COOL) Although this rule was proposed several years before, it went into effect in the country on 30th September 2008. The Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946 was amended by ‘the 2002 and 2008 Farm Bills’ as part of providing source country information to customers (National Archives and Records Administration, 2009). The 2008 Farm Bill includes a set of provisions such as addition of new commodities and requirement for labeling products of multiple origins. This framework also requires a supplier to share country of origin and other production information with the retailer. Retail firms which are functioning under the Perishable Agricultural Marketing Act (PACA) are legall y liable to comply with the provisions of the COOL. A person selling any type of perishable goods at retail comes under the jurisdiction of PACA. As per PACA requirements, retailers must be licensed when their invoiced purchase costs of perishable agricultural commodities exceed a limit of $230,000 during a calendar year (Rynn & Janowdky, LLP, 2010). According to this Act, perishable agricultural commodities include fresh fruits and vegetables. Since exporters are excluded in the definition, they do not need to adhere to COOL requirements. Similarly, other food service establishments such as restaurants, lunchrooms, bars, lounges, taverns are also exempt from this rule in addition to salad bars and delicatessens that supply fast food. In addition, processed foods- which refer to food items undergone several processing changes- like chocolate, bagged salad, mixed nuts, breading, and orange juice need to comply with COOL requirements (cited in GPO Access, 2012). However, it must be no ted that this law covers some additional items such as canned roasted peanuts although they are considered as a processed food. The origin of country labeling statute clearly directs that if the covered commodity undergoes the processes like frying, boiling, roasting, broiling, steaming, curing, grilling, baking, smoked, or restructuring, the item does not need to be labeled (Third Party Written Submission of Australia, 2010). As Johnecheck (2010) points out, the COOL rule clearly states that the labeling has to be specific and accurate. According to this statute, the labeling option may include sticker, label, sign, placard, twist tie, pin tag, stamp, or band. It is allowable for the retailer to give the information on the package, holding unit, display material, or the bin placed at the end point of the sale. The country of origin information must be displayed in a conspicuous place so that customer can easily read and understand the information during the course of purchase proce ss. The rule also specifically mentions that the country of origin information printed or handwritten should not overlay other labeling information mandated by the Federal regulation. Sometimes, retailers may use bulk containers to display a large number of products, including covered commodities from different countries. Under such circumstances, retailers are required to list all possible origins and other product information. Nowadays, the concept of e-commerce has attained

Landscape Painting Description Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Landscape Painting Description - Essay Example The paper "Describe the landscape painting" aims to analyze the two drawings by two different artists, Chen Guan and Mi Wazhong. Seemingly, the artist was making an attempt to depict a connection between mountains and trees; this also indicates that the artist had proper environmental knowledge in the sense that: Mountainous regions are characterized by heavy rainfall; in these areas there tend to be excessive growth of trees especially at the foot of the mountain. Additionally, it is apparent that the artist is aware that the growth of trees cannot be supported by the steep slopes of any mountain. The artist did not draw tree on the steep slopes of the mountain; a scenario which may also indicate that the slopes are characterized by excessive soil erosion hence lack of tree. Consequently, the drawing depicts an attractive natural scenario that appeals to the viewers; sceneries of trees have usually been ascribed to a sense of relaxation to human mind. It also exposes the viewer to a situation of mental activity whereby; Apart from the trees and the mountains, there are also signs of fog that are evident on the mountain top as well as at the foot of the mountain around the tree tops. The fog might have been used by the artists to indicate that the region is characterized by very cold temperatures. Moreover, the fog may be an indication of high level of humidity experienced in the region. In order to provide his viewers with more detailed information, Mi Wazhong indicated shallow.

Cause and effect of divorce Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Cause and effect of divorce - Essay Example ons in life, which affect the longevity of marriage unions especially because different individuals have different capacities to withstand such challenges. This paper is a critical evaluation of the causes and effects of divorce. There are various reasons as to why a couple may decide to get a divorce. For example, it is true to say that once a person has decided to get married, he will have made an important choice to be loyal and faithful to the person he or she is going to marry. However, infidelity and adultery have continued to be a major threat to the institution of marriage especially in the contemporary society (Stewart 28). Cheating on a person is absurd and disrespectful and not many people can withstand the pain and agony associated with this shameful act. If proven, infidelity is a justifiable reason for any person to want to terminate a marriage especially in this era of HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases. Domestic violence is an evil, which has continued to ruin marriages throughout the world. 2004 statistics indicate that 17% of divorce cases in the UK were because of one partner abusing the other either physically or emotionally (Lewis 44). Couples are supposed to love and protect each other. However, if a partner becomes a threat then divorce becomes a necessity to avoid complications, which may include disability or death. Every person has weaknesses and it is usually important for a couple to study each other in order to discover them before entering into a lifetime commitment. However, some couples get married without putting this into much thought or thinking that they would eventually help their partners to overcome their shortcomings only to end up being frustrated. Alcoholism and drug abuse are examples of such weaknesses, which have contributed to numerous cases of divorce around the world. Money is important but current trends have proved that it is a major source of conflicts between married couples (Stewart 47). The lack

Operations Management Assignment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3500 words

Operations Management Assignment - Essay Example The range of technologies used in the modern retail industries have been from softwares to hardwares. The new technologies require that they become fully integrated into the retail operations of the business for their benefits to be maximized. According to McGrane (2007, p. 50-53), some of the key technologies or technological areas within the range are as follows (McGrane 2007, p. 50-53; EPoS 2007; and Prater et al. 2005): Bar-coding/scanning technology/labelling. Bar-coding, scanning, and labelling technologies have been invented years ago but not all of the retail business operations are using them. Nevertheless, the technologies are expected to be available to business operators in the coming years and there are widespread expectations that the technologies will be improved further and will become in more popular use as we go through current decade (McGrane 2007, p. 52). â€Å"Scanners are getting smarter† and â€Å"self-scanning will continue to grow† (McGrane 2007 , p. 52). The new technologies include a touch screen display, barcode scanner, weighing scales, credit card reader, cash reader and deposit unit. Wireless technologies are even being developed for bar-coding and scanning, making possible for inventory and sales monitoring and sales transaction remotely from the goods that are the subject of a transaction. Epos software & hardware. EPoS systems or Electronic Point of Sale Systems provide a way of dealing with customers that is fast and efficient because they can do calculations or total, issue receipts, keep track of inventories, and monitor sales as the sales transaction is being completed (EPoS 2010). Further, the EPoS systems can also keep track of customer information thereby enhancing the seller’s capabilities to execute customer relation management (EPoS 2010). Moreover, the EPoS systems can also directly interface with the credit card system thereby accessing more information on customers and enhancing the ability of t he firm to conduct follow-up sales and strengthen its relationship with customers (EPoS 2010). Simultaneously, the EPoS system can also identify which products are not doing well in the market (EPoS 2010) thereby enhancing a business firm’s ability to make crucial business decisions on what products lines and brands to carry. EPoS systems can make transactions faster and they can be customized to a specific business environment (EPoS 2010). Changing prices, data, quantity and other variables are easy (EPoS 2010). EPoS systems can be operated through keyboards or PDAs or personal digital assistant (EPoS 2010). The systems were designed to be powerful and yet very simple for the business staff to learn and use (EPoS 2010). On the other hand, the EPoS system requires maintenance and backups (EPoS 2010). Data can be backed up off site using another party or service company (EPoS 2010). The backup system must cover â€Å"historical backups† in that one can go back to an old er backup if the most recent backup is corrupted (EPoS 2010). Periodic updates are necessary and businesses using the latest retail technologies may want to have in-house capabilities to do backups. This also implies that somebody in business must focus himself or herself in data security. Wireless hardwares,

Is Competition Necessary Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Is Competition Necessary - Essay Example Therefore, competition determines who is to undertake a certain duty and assigns people their respective status or place in the social realm. For instance, some people compete with others with the aim of retaining their social status while others compete in order to attain new social status. Competition is necessary in society in that outperforming others is healthy since the person who is smart manages to get the best. Competition is really necessary because it acts a motivation in that it challenges people to have an objective and a goal that encourages or motivates them to attain more that the other person. This in turn makes the person to explore different ways available in order to beat others. In addition, competition brings more imaginative and creative thinking since a person is inspired where there is a challenge to overcome certain issues. Additionally, it offers the determination to continue without interference or undeterred. With this in mind, a person is able to recogni ze others in that he or she respects that different people have distinct abilities and skills (Fullick 36-7). Therefore, people ought to compete in a manner that motivates them positively not negatively even if it means against themselves and their own past successes. For instance, in classroom setting, some children posses’ different potentials and ways of learning, therefore, finding an good way to motivate them may involve a competitive aspect but it has be chosen wisely or else it can have negative effect and de-motivate students. In addition, competition brings people of different levels, aspirations, ages, and desired objectives or goals. Due to this, some individuals may be in a competition for social purposes. Competition is significant in that presents some life lessons. This is based on the argument that life can be hard and tough at times. For example, applying for jobs or participating in marathon or any discipline where there are many losers than winners. People are able to learn from it in that they relish chance or opportunity to do their best and find ways to enhance and improve in order to emerge winner the next time. More so, people will learn to cope with disappointment by congratulating the winner for outperforming him or her and candidly appreciating the abilities and talents of others while looking forward for the next chance (Porter 32-3). For instance, competition can make an individual enjoy freedom and mobility in that the spirit of competition assists individuals to enhance and improve their social status. On the same threshold, competition offers an individual good opportunity to satisfy their needs for new experience and better recognition in the society. Competition is also necessary in that it challenges an individual to go an extra mile when competing with other people. For instance, when people set their eyes on the price, they are able to put in more energy and enthusiasm which motivates them to carry on. Individuals ar e often ready to look for an extra reserve of determination and stamina to work through and carry on with the competition (Fullick 23). Competition has proved to be helpful in that it helps people to find resources they never had. In this case, competition requires critical thinking by exploring ways that can help one succeed. More so, it regularly

The Two Dominant Political Parties in the United States of America Essay

The Two Dominant Political Parties in the United States of America - Essay Example The federalist also insisted that the government should be run by "best people" or the elite and not by the common people. They supported the executive branch of the government. The Republicans wanted strict and inflexible interpretation of the institution and opposed central government. They proposed that the government lessen its intervention to economy and give the power to the state because they desired more involvement of the people. They also support legislature to formulate laws in governing the populace. Federalists admired the British and wanted to copy the aristocracy of Great Britain. The Republicans favored France. The Federalists' suppression of freedom of press and speech was strongly opposed by the Republicans. There were some similarities of these two political parties. To promote their policies and ideologies, the Federalists created Gazette of the United States and the Republican set up the National Gazette. This increased the involvement of the people, dividing further the Americans. Both parties supported foreign countries: the Federalist for Great Britain and the Republican for France.

Why global warming is considered to be a threat to the ecological Assignment

Why global warming is considered to be a threat to the ecological balance in our planet - Assignment Example This leads to global warming which is responsible for the creation of extreme climatic conditions in different areas. These extreme climatic conditions pose a big threat to the ecological balance in our planet in many ways. According to Gosden, some species would face extinction since they may not be able to sustain the extreme climatic conditions caused by global warming. For instance, animals like penguins that can only survive in Polar Regions characterised by snow may face extinction due to the melting of snow in those areas due to global warming. On the other hand, global warming may cause food insecurity in different parts of the globe as a result of extreme weather conditions like flooding or droughts. The normal human activities can also be impacted by global warming. Overall, global warming is likely to impact on the entire ecosystem as a result of the disturbances likely to be caused by extreme climatic changes that may take place in the environment. warming.† The Telegraph. http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/earth/environment/climatechange/11202987/UN-climate-change-report-to-warn-of-severe-pervasive-effects-of-global-warming.html 01 November 2015. Web. 26 May

National Netball Coach Essay Example for Free

National Netball Coach Essay The national England Netball coach Lesley Dixon does not have to organise matches or transport because the league it self sorts them details out. Mrs Hyams on the other hand has to contact other local teams and sort out matches and tournaments, and means of transport for hers players, which can be stressful and time consuming. When Lesley Dixon has picked her team for a match from her squad she then tells the Netball associate, who then inform the players and provide them with information. When Mrs Hyams has picked the team, she then has to go and find them to tell them. She then has to provide them with fixtures that she has done herself. Lesley Dixon has to has alot netball coaching experience having spent 8 years with Hertfordshire County and later as manager for the England FENA U17 team. This much experience has enabled Lesley to teach netball at a national standard. Where as Mrs Hyams has a level one coaching qualification and no other netball coaching experience. Lesley Dixon represents the netball association she has a lot of pressure because if the national team is not winning matches they will not be bale to qualify for matches against other national teams in a well publicized tournament such as the qualify stages of a manger up coming tournament. This will look bad and the England team will lose support if they do not compete in major matches or tournaments. When Mrs Hyams prepares the netball teams for matches, there is not as much pressure because all netballs teams are entered in to tournaments. So there is no need for qualifying matches. There is also less pressure on Mrs Hyams because there is limited interest in the results of the Barclay netball team, so no one hears if they do well or not. School netball league is competitive but not as competitive as national games. Lesley Dixon gets paid every month for coaching the national England netball team, where as Mrs Hyams who coaches the school team out of school hours, does not get paid for doing so. When one of Lesley Dixon players is injured on court or suffers from injuries during training, she has the medical staff available to treat her players. So she doesnt have to have a medical or first aid qualification. Mrs Hyams has to have a first aid qualification, so when a member of the netball teams is injured, she has to treat them or escort them of court. Ways in which Mrs Hyams can improve her netball coaching ability is to go on level 2 netball coaching course at Bedfordshire Time Venue TBA. This will enable to teach netball at a higher standard and have more knowledge of the game. Mrs Hyams could also go on an beginner umpiring course at Eaton CNS School Easton Road Norwich, so when she umpires her netball teams matches and other netball teams; she can be more competent and confident in her decisions when umpiring. Most of netball team see Mrs Hyams more as a friend than a netball coach. This can sometime lead to a lack of concentration from the players, because we do not see her as an authoritive figure. To improve this Mrs Hyams could be disciplined, which would inevitable cause the team to be more focused. Although Mrs Hyams netball team, who she has coached since year seven have gone on to win the district tournament four years running. This shows Mrs Hyams dedication and hard work as well as the teams. There are not a lot of things Lesley Dixon could do to improve her netball coaching ability. One thing she could do is make netball more publicised so more people start to take notice of netball. This is because to be at a national coaching standard you need to be fully focused and qualified. These qualities are what makes a good coach and cant be faulted. Although Lesley Dixons team have recently failed to pass the test matches against Jamaica. Both types of netball coaches from national standard to school standard have to be knowledgeable about the game in order to lead and coach it to members of the team. The two different coaches have the same principle of coaching which is to teach the game, but have very different responsibilities.

Financial Statement Analysis of Hilton Worldwide Holdings

Financial Statement Analysis of Hilton Worldwide Holdings Company Overview HiltonWorldwide Holdings Inc.is one of the largest and fastest growing hospitality companies in the world. The company is correctly positioned in the industry. We expect Hilton to grow at about 6.92% the same rate as its competitor and to maintain the median returns it currently generates. Hilton has relatively high profit margins while operating with median asset turns. Hiltons year-to-year change in revenues and earnings are better than that of its competitor. Hiltons revenue growth in recent years and current P/E ratio are both around their respective peer medians suggesting that historical performance and long-term growth expectations for the company are largely in sync. Analytical Conclusion Although the hospitality industry can get volatile Hilton Worldwide will continue to make strides as the company has a dedicated team coupled with an award winning portfolio and tailor made strategies for each hotel. Hence, the company will continue its operations for years to come. While Hilton has little control over external shocks, the company has the ability to adapt to its competitors, both old and new in all 104 countries and regions. Hilton worldwide is fairly valued. The company is currently valued at $19.07 billion with an anticipated value of $19.70-20B. Summary Financials Price (Sale):2.63(BV):3.21Float: 192.69M Debt to Equity: 184.85 52 Week Trading Range: 41.55 60.40Insider Holdings: N/A Current Ratio: 1.33 Cash: 1.42B Equity: 5.89 B P/E trailing: 54.77 Exchange: NYSEProfit Margin: 4.82% P/E forward: 27.65 Market Cap: 19.18BOperating Margin: 28.07% Shares Outstanding: 329.73MROE: 6.17% Selected Financials FY 12/31 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 Revenue 9.66B 8.88B 11. 66B 11. 27B 10.50B 9.74B 9.28B Net Income 743M 571 M 348M 1.4B 673M 415M 352M EPS (Basic) 2.06 1.74 1.06 4.26 2.04 1.35 1.14 EPS (Diluted) 2.06 1.74 1.05 4.26 2.04 1.35 1.14 P/E 28.22 33.25 21.59 30.65 34.40 33.82 35.98 Company Highlights Net loss for the fourth quarter was $382 million, and net income for the full year was $364 million. Diluted loss per share was $1.17 for the fourth quarter, largely driven by $513 million of non-cash corporate restructuring charges incurred prior to the spin-offs, and diluted EPS was $1.05 for the full year. Added 354 hotels to its system in 2016, opening nearly one hotel per day in the year. Completed spins-offs of Hilton Grand Vacations (HGV) and Park Hotels and Resorts (PK) Hilton launched its newest brand the Tapestry Collection by Hilton. Description Hilton is one of the largest and fastest growing hospitality companies in the world, with a portfolio of 14 world class brands comprising over 4,900 properties with more than 800,000 rooms in 104 countries and regions. Hilton is committed to fulfilling its mission to be the worlds most hospitable company by delivering exceptional experiences at every hotel, to every guest, every time. Hilton was founded in 1919 by Conrad Hilton when he purchased his first hotel in Texas, Hiltons is the most recognized hotel brand in the world. Hiltons operate its business across three segments: ownership; management and franchise; and timeshare. Hiltons strategy focuses on providing service and cost models tailored to each hotel, reflecting size, business complexity, and market environment. Hilton provide appropriate levels of engagement depending on each hotels needs, by ensuring hotel owners are fully engaged in decision-making. This consolidated approach means Hilton maximize cost and scale effici encies, by sharing best practice, market and trend intelligence and ensuring appropriate affordability to each hotel. For example: Hilton refine its luxury brands to deliver products and service standards that are relevant to each region. Hiltons operations are mainly concentrated in the United States, however, it has its presence in the international markets such as in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, and in the Asia Pacific region. Operations Hilton operates its business across three segments namely; ownership, management and franchise, and timeshare. Ownership Hilton is one of the largest hotel owners in the world based on the number of rooms at the companys leased, owned and joint venture properties. Hiltons diverse global portfolio of owned and leased properties includes a number of prominent hotels in major cities such as New York City, San Francisco, London, Chicago, SÃ £o Paolo and Tokyo. Hiltons portfolio includes renowned hotels with significant underlying real estate value, by the end of 2016, the ownership segment had 141 hotels with 57,716 rooms. In recent years Hilton has expanded its hotel system less through real estate investment and more by increasing the number of management and franchise agreements the company has with third-party hotel owners. Hilton focuses on maximizing profitability and cost efficiency of all its portfolios by, reducing fixed costs and implementing new labor management practices and systems. For instance, Hilton has developed and executed strategic plans for each of its hotels to enhance the market po sition of each property. At many of its hotels Hilton has renovated guest rooms and public spaces and added or enhanced meeting and retail space to improve profitability. At certain of its hotels, Hilton is evaluating options for the adaptive reuse of all or a portion of the property to residential, retail or timeshare uses. Management and Franchise Hiltons management and franchise segment enables the company to manage timeshare properties and hotels and license its trademarks to franchisees. Hilton currently manages 4,734 hotels with 738,724 rooms. Therefore, this segment generates its revenue primarily from fees charged to homeowners, hotel owners and associations at timeshare properties. Hilton grows its management and franchise business by attracting owners to become a part of its system and participate in its brands and commercial services to support their hotel. On Hiltons part, these contracts require little or no capital investment to initiate and provide substantial return on investment for Hiltons. Hiltons primary management services consist of operating hotels under management contracts for the benefit of third parties, who either own or lease the hotels. Hilton earns an incentive fee based on gross operating profits and a management fee based on a percentage of the hotels gross revenue. For a fee Hilton franchise its trade, brand names, operating systems and service marks to hotel owners. Hilton does not directly participate in the daily operation or management of franchised hotels but its conducts periodic inspections to ensure that brand standards are maintained. Hilton approves certain aspects of development and the location for new construction of franchised hotels, in some cases, Hilton also provides the franchise with product improvement plans that must be completed in accordance with brand standards to remain in Hiltons hotel system. Timeshare Hiltons timeshare segment generates revenue from three primary sources: Resort Operations, Timeshare Sales, and Financing. Hilton market and sell timeshare interests owned by Hilton and third parties. The company sells timeshare intervals on behalf of third-party developers using the Hilton Grand Vacations brand. Through resort operations Hilton manages the Hilton Grand Vacations (HGV) Club, receiving annual dues, enrollment fees, and transaction fees from members. Hiltons also provides consumer financing, which includes interest income generated from the origination of consumer loans to customers to finance their purchase of timeshare intervals and revenue from servicing the loans. Strategy Since Hilton Worldwide was founded, the company has been among the top hospitality companies in the industry. In fact, after almost 100 years it is considered one of the largest and fastest growing corporations with the goal to deliver outstanding customer experiences and excellent operating performance. Hiltons business strategy is based on its service differentiation, the company distinguishes itself from its competitors by providing high quality service combining it with IT systems. According to Dudovki, (2016), Hilton has been focusing its strategy on digitalizing mobile services, booking channels, loyalty and data driven-personalization, and also improving guest experience and privacy. Enhanced service offering is at the forefront of Hilton strategy. In order to allocate more of customers travel spending to Hilton hotels, and consequently to enhance customer loyalty for the entire system of hotels and timeshare properties, the team created Hilton Honors Loyalty Program. The program rewards guests with points for each stay at any of Hiltons more than 4,900 hotels worldwide. Members can use the points earned for free hotel nights and other goods and services; moreover, it is possible to spend the points with 130 partners, among which car rental, rail, and airlines companies, credit card providers and others. The loyalty program contributed over $17 billion in terms of revenues as reported at the end of the year 2016. Another strategy employed by Hilton is premium pricing. Hilton utilizes the premium pricing policies for its upscale services and hotels. The pricing strategy is established to emphasize, among customers, the sense of status and luxury rather than the sense of stay and dining. Through the analysis of previous performance and strategies they provide to manage future profitability. For instance, they engage with sales teams for hotels with significant group/corporate business, to ensure corporate pricing structure is maximized throughout the RFP process. The management of Hilton believe every Hilton Worldwide property has its own unique strengths and challenges. As such they provide service and cost models tailored to each hotel, reflecting business complexity, size, and market environment. Hilton matches its service to the needs of the clients hotel, Hilton management believes that one size fits all. This consolidated approach means that Hilton maximize cost and scale efficiencies, rapidly sharing best practice, market and trend intelligence and ensuring appropriate affordability to each hotel. Hilton have focused on optimizing hotels market share and delivering market-beating revenue per available room (RevPAR) results. Hiltons team provides thorough analysis of previous performance and strategies to drive future profitability. Management Hilton Executive Committee is characterized by key personnel with diverse backgrounds who were able to bring the company to the prominence it now enjoys in the hospitality industry. Among those executive are Hiltons President and Chief Executive Officer, Christopher J. Nassetta. Nassetta has been one of the most important figure in the Hilton family since 2007. With a degree in finance, Nassetta has always been close to the hospitality industry and real estate market. In fact, he worked as President and Chief Executive Officer at Host Hotels Resorts, Inc. since 2000, and before he was Chief Development Officer for The Oliver Carr Company, one of the largest commercial real estate company in the Mid-Atlantic region. He is also involved in several non-profit organizations and volunteering. Another central leader in this profitable company is its Executive Vice President Chief Financial Officer, Kevin Jacobs. He began his experience at Hilton in 2008 covering various positions. He is now responsible of the companys global finance, information technology and real estate functions. As his President, Jacobs has a background in the hospitality industry working for other Hotels and Resorts corporations. Jim Holthouser joined Hilton board as Vice President of Global Brands in 1979. He directs the brand management and customer marketing across nine consumer brands for more than 4,000 hotels. With over 20 years of experience in the restaurant, lodging, and gaming industries, Holthouser has held a series of senior management positions within Hilton in the franchising, branding, and marketing arenas. The above mentioned key personnel are veterans in their own right with experience in hospitality and related industries, Hiltons executive team is well-positioned to accelerate its momentum. Hiltons executives collectively make a holistic team because they are from diverse background and shares common interests and values as such they all able to contribute to the holistic growth and development of Hilton Worldwide. Markets The hospitality industry is seasonal. It is common for Hilton and the other competitors to expect lower revenues in the first quarter of each year. According to Statista the global hotel industry in 2016 was valued at $490.06 billion. Reports by Financial Morningstar.com indicate that Hilton Worldwide is ranked among the largest player in the global hotel industry, Hilton and Marriott have the highest market share. They are followed by Wyndhams, Choice Hotels and International Hotels Groups. The global hotel industry is fragmented. There is no single company in a position to influence or dominate the industry as no company holds more than 5% of the global market shares. Hilton is growing quickly, as it has the highest global market share by room supply of approximately 4.7%. Hiltons operations are mainly concentrated in the United States, but it has started to increase its presence in the international market. Hilton has a higher market share of 9.3 % in the United States, it has a r elatively small share of 3% in other regions in the Middle East and Africa, 1.6 % in Europe, and 1.2 % in the Asia Pacific region. Hilton faces a strong competition as a hotel, resort, residential, and timeshare manager, franchisor, developer and owner. The hotel and lodging industry inspects several elements in terms of competition, such as the attractiveness of the facility, location, quality of accommodations, amenities, level of service, room rate, public and meeting spaces and other guest services, consistency of service, brand reputation and the ability to earn and redeem loyalty program points through a global system. Hilton principal competitors on a global scale are Marriott International, Accor S.A., Carlson Rezidor Group, MÃ ¶venpick Hotels and Resorts Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels, Hyatt Hotels Corporation, Intercontinental Hotel Group, and Wyndham Worldwide Corporation. Financial Analysis and Projections Financial History 2014-2015 Hilton Worldwide generates revenue from three business segments namely ownership, management and franchise and timeshare which accounts for the companys strong financial results. For fiscal year ending 2015 total revenue increased from $10,505,000,000 in 2014 to 1$1,272,000,000 in 2015, showing a growth of 6%. This positive revenue is attributed to recovery in the economy. Likewise, cost of revenue also increased from $4,029,000,000 in 2014 to $4,065,000,000. These cost of revenue are consistent with the companys portfolio expansion. However as a percentage revenues, cost of revenues decreased by 2% in 2015 which is a reflection of the companys extensive cost reducing strategy, meanwhile the companys gross profit margins increased by 2.27% in 2015. The companys selling and administrative, non-recurring, and other expenses as a percentage of revenues has shown slight increases over the past two years, which is consistent with expansions. However, the company was able to compress the cost of expenses so that these cost did not increase by more than the increase in revenues. On a per share basis, earnings showed a significant increase from $2.04 in 2014 to $4.26 in 2015, this represented an increase in performance. The companys net profit increased by 5.59% to 1,404,000,000 up from 673,000, 000, as Hilton launched its 13th brand, Tru by Hilton. Hiltons performance was as a result of the increase in revenues from owned and leased hotels in all segments and regions, with occupancy and rate increases in all regions except Middle East and Africa. Hiltons economic growth continued to drive performance, as global RevPAR increased from 3 to 5 percent. Hilton achieved record expansion and financial results in 2015 and continues to lead th e industry as the largest, best-performing and fastest-growing hospitality company. Fiscal Year ended 2016 The fiscal year ended 2016 was a record-breaking year for Hilton as the company increased its system size by 6.6% with 52,000 gross rooms opened, nearly one hotel per day was opened a total 354 hotels and started construction on nearly 77,000 rooms. The first quarter of the fiscal year 2016, was the slowest quarter for Hilton as they reported revenues of $2,750,000, 000, a 5% decrease over the corresponding period for 2015. The second quarter was the strongest quarter of the entire year, with a 9.9% revenue growth over the previous quarter. Revenues saw a consistent decline over the two last quarters. Net income for the first quarters of the 2016 was $ 309,000,000, a 48.5% increase over the corresponding period the previous year. However the company saw a significant reduction in net income over the three last quarters, and even posted a net loss in fourth quarter of 2016, the net loss was $382 million compared to net income of $816 million for the previous period in, 2015. During the fourth quarter of 2016, Hilton incurred a tax charge of $513 million related to a corporate restructuring executed before the spin-offs, resulting in a net loss for the period. For the fourth quarter of 2016, diluted loss per share was $1.17 compared to diluted earnings per share of $2.47 for the fourth quarter of 2015. For the fiscal year 2016, diluted EPS was $1.05 compared to $4.26 for the previous year. Net income was $364 million for the full year 2016 compared to $1,416 million for the fiscal year 2015, a 74% reduction. The companys performance for fiscal year 2016 reflect the effects of the spin-off of Park Hotels Resorts Inc. and Hilton Grand Vacations Inc. which was completed in January 2017. Consolidated Income Statement and Projections Common Size Expected Common Size Expected Common Size Actual Actual Actual All numbers in thousands Revenue 12/31/2018 12/31/2017 12/31/2016 12/31/2015 12/31/2014 Total Revenue 100% 9,661,440 100% 8,880,000 100% 11,663,000 11,272,000 10,502,000 Cost of Revenue 35.00% 3,381,504 35% 3,108,000 34.71% 4,048,000 4,065,000 4,019,000 Gross Profit 65.00% 6,279,936 65.00% 5,772,000 65.29% 7,615,000 7,207,000 6,483,000 Operating Expenses Selling General and Administrative 42.00% 4,057,805 40.00% 3,552,000 43.40% 5,062,000 4,741,000 4,182,000 Non-Recurring 0.09% 9,000 0.17% 15,000 0.13% 15,000 9,000 9,000 Others 5.88% 568,093 6.00% 532,800 5.88% 686,000 692,000 628,000 Total Operating Expenses Operating Income or Loss 1,645,039 1,672,200 1,861,000 2,071,000 1,673,000 Income from Continuing Operations Total Other Income/Expenses Net 4.50% 434,764.8 1.00% 88,800 0.15% -18,000 283,000 73,000 Earnings Before Interest and Taxes 21.53% 2,079,803 19.83% 1,761,000 15.79% 1,842,000 2,071,000 1,765,000 Interest Expense 5.00% 483072 5.00% 444,000 5.03% 587,000 575,000 618,000 Income Before Tax 13.00% 1,255,987.2 11.83% 1,050,600 10.76% 1,255,000 1,496,000 1,147,000 Income Tax Expense 5.00% 483072 5.00% 444,000 7.64% 891,000 80,000 465,000 Minority Interest 0.40% 38645.76 0.40% 35,520 0.43% 50,000 34,000 38,000 Net Income From Continuing Ops 8.00% 772,915.2 6.00% 532,800 3.05% 356,000 1,427,000 692,000 Net Income 7.60% 734269.44 6.43% 571,080 2.98% 348,000 1,404,000 673,000 Net Income Applicable To Common Shares 734,269.44 571,080 348,000 1,404,000 673,000 EPS Diluted 2.09 1.74 1.06 1.35 1.14 Average Share 350,000 329,000 329,730 1,040,000 590,350 Projections for Next Two years Current Fiscal year ending December 2017 As Hilton separate into three distinct, publicly traded company, in order to unlock growth opportunities and to take advantage of the capital market and tax efficiencies, there seems to be a dim outlook for the upcoming year. Experts project that revenues growth will decrease by 23.80% to 8.88 billion down from 11.66 billion in 2016. This expected decline in growth is not expected to translate in a reduction in overall EPS, as EPS, are expected to increase from $1.06 to $1.74. In fiscal 2017 the company plans to roll out its new simplified business model: A market leading fee-based business as over 90% of Hiltons revenue comes from franchise fee and management fee. This new business model is expected to generate significant revenues as the company continues to lead the industry in net unit growth without significant use of capital. Hilton intends to aggressively invest to drive revenues and manage risk. With the enhanced capabilities developed through the 354 hotels added in 2016 and the completion of a further 77,000 rooms. In addition, the company is expected to drive per unit growth due to the launch of its newest brand, Tapestry Collection by Hilton and extensive management contracts with large luxury hotels in countries such as China. However, general and administrative expense, non-recurring expenses and other expenses are projected to be flat compared to fiscal year 2016. Net profit is project to increase by 3.45% to 571,080 million. For the fiscal year ending December 2017, Hilton expects total revenue from continuing operations to increase by more than 20% up 88 million compared to the $18 million loss in 2016. Net unit growth is expected to be roughly 50,000 to 55,000 rooms as such system-wide RevPAR is projected to increase anywhere from 1 to 3 percent compared to 2016. For the fiscal year 2017 cash available for capital return and debt prepayments is projected to be between $900 million and $1 billion. Likewise, capital expenditures for the year, excluding amounts reimbursed by hotel owners, are estimated to be between $150 million and $200 million. Fiscal Year Ending December 2018 For the fiscal year ending December 2018, revenue are projected to increase by an average of 8.80 %, up to $9.67 billion, while earnings are expected to grow to an average of 2% to roughly $2.08 billion, showing positive prospects of continued growth. The earnings per shares are expected to show a corresponding increase from $1.74 to $2.08. Hilton is expected to drive leading investment returns to hotel owners, as hotel owners continue to invest in Hiltons system growth. Hilton is also expecting its market-leading growth to be amplified by its new brands that will bring new customers into its system and offers more opportunities for its existing customers to stay with the company. Capitalization and Other Asset and Liability Analysis During fiscal year 2016, in preparation for the spin-offs, Hilton entered into a series of financing transactions, of which the debt incurred by HGV and Park is the sole obligation of those entities after the spin-offs. Hilton entered into a $200 million senior secured term loan facility for HGV, the company also entered into a $750 million senior unsecured term loan facility for Park and issued two new commercial mortgage-backed securities (CMBS) loans for Park totaling $2 billion. The company also repaid $250 million on the senior secured term loan facility entered into in 2013. Finally the company borrowed $300 million on the revolving non-recourse timeshare financing receivables credit facility entered into in 2013 for HGV. Also during the fourth quarter of 2016, Hilton repaid the outstanding balance of $3,418 million on a CMBS loan entered into in 2013 and a $450 million mortgage loan, using net proceeds from 2016 borrowings and available cash. As of December 31, 2016, Hilton had $10.2 billion of long-term debt outstanding, of which $3.0 billion is transferred to Park and $0.5 billion is transferred to HGV in connection with the spin-offs. As of December 31, 2016, total cash and cash equivalents was $1,684 million, net receivables was $1.15 billion, inventory amounted to 541 million and other current assets was 176 million. In December 2016, Hilton paid a quarterly cash dividend of $0.07 per share on outstanding common shares, a total of $70 million, bringing total cash dividends paid in 2016 to $277 million. Hilton ended 2016 with property plant and equipment valued $8,930 million, goodwill of $5,822 million, intangible asset of $6,374 million, and other assets of $334 million the company also had deferred long term asset charge of 117 million. Hiltons total asset increased by 495 million to $26,211 million up from $25, 716 million in 2015. At the end of the 2016 the Hiltons had a working capital of $873 million, this indicates that the company has the ability to pay its short term liabilities. The current ratio is 1.33:1, which is also an indication of the companys ability to honor its short term obligations as they fall dues. Hiltons has $2,684 in total current liabilities, $20,312 million in total liabilities and total stockholders equity of $5,899 million and decrease of 52 million over the same pe riod in 2015. Projections indicate that along with Hilton s new simplifies business model and the separation of the three companies, the current capitalization structure Hilton should be profitable without the need for excess borrowing. Balance Sheet for year ended 31, December 2016 All numbers in thousands Current Assets $ Current Liabilities $ Cash And Cash Equivalents 1,684,000 Accounts Payable 2,513,000 Net Receivables 1,156,000 Short/Current Long Term Debt 171,000

A Tragic Hero :: Character, Brutus, Cassius, Caesar

A tragic hero is defined as a person of high social rank, who has a tragic flaw or flaws that lead to their downfall. These heroes’ downfalls are usually either complete ruin or death. Tragic heroes face their downfall with courage and dignity. While many characters in Julius Caesar could fit these conditions, the person who fits the role of a tragic hero the best is Marcus Brutus. Brutus develops into a tragic hero throughout the play, and this is shown though his qualifications of a tragic hero, his high status, his tragic flaws, and his courage in the face of his death. Brutus has high social status in Rome. Brutus is a senator, and a popular one at that. Cassius says that â€Å"many of the best respect in Rome... have wished that noble Brutus had his eyes† (1103). Many people look up to Brutus, and wish he would help with their problems. Brutus has enough social status and wealth to hire six servants (1097). Brutus’s wife, Portia, is â€Å"Cato’s daughter†, a highly respected man (1124). IT would take someone of high status to marry a daughter of Cato’s. Portia asks if Brutus thinks she is â€Å"no stronger than [her] sex, being so fathered and so husbanded† (1124). This implies that Brutus is a man on a near caliber to that of her father. Even after Brutus is run out of Rome, he keeps his high status by becoming a general. One of the qualities of being a tragic hero is high social status, and Brutus has this quality. Brutus has several tragic flaws. One of these tragic flaws is how he trusts people a lot. Brutus says that he â€Å"know[s] that we shall have [Antony] well to a friend† (1140). He trusts Antony will be a friend of the conspirators, yet he seems to not realize that Antony is obliviously against them, because they killed his friend. Brutus trusts Antony so much, that he lets Antony speak to the public alone. Antony turns the people against Brutus and the conspirators, leading to the wars where Brutus takes his own life. Brutus also receives letters, supposedly from the people of Rome. As he reads the letter out loud, Brutus remarks â€Å"‘Speak, strike, redress!’ Am I entreated to speak and strike? O Rome, I make thee promise, if thy redress will follow, thy receivest thy full petition at the hand of Brutus† (1118).

Indian Suffrage Essay examples -- essays research papers

Indian Suffrage   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Before the English arrived in the New world and began creating colonies, the American Indians lived in harmony and peace with natures. The American Indians were skilled hunters, farmers and used everything in their environment for survival or for essential necessities. They shared the land together and moved about freely in search of food. The American Indians never considered the lands their property because it's belong to God and no one have the right to buy, sell, nor own it. However, Europeans has an opposite view of Indians beliefs, cultures, and use of lands. They viewed Indians as children, savage- uncivilized people in need of their protection and salvation (Carroll and Noble: 30). Therefore, they felt it is their responsibility to civilize the Indian and put their lands into good uses. Hence, American Indians suffrages and nightmares began. The impact of American expansion has turned upon the Indians and confronted them with social and economic crises never before experienced. As a result, many tribes torn apart, in many cases extinct, and their identity was lost. Indians also lost their original lands as a result of direct and indirect contact with the Europeans. The whites wanted more lands for their developments, and because of this greed, they created direct policies to clear the Indians off their lands. For example, one form of direct policy that the whites used to rob Indians of their lands was by signing treaties. Then later the whites broke these treaties and forced Indian off their lands by the Removal policy and claimed the lands as their property (Lowy: Lecture 11/96). There were many indirect methods that white used to rob Indians' lands. They use bribery, threats, and among countless other things to trick Indians into giving up their lands. They were often tricked into signing the land cession treaties that they did not understand the negotiation and the language (Lowy: Lecture 11/6).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In many ways, the United States policy toward Indian has been schizophrenic because the laws never completely nor attempted to give Indians an opportunity to progress and assimilate into American mainstream as an individual. From time to time, whites creates many policies, such as the reservation, relocation, and termination in an effort to assimilate the Indians into the Americ... ...using their own lands, while the whites over exploited the lands for profits. Whites also passed laws restricting Indians trading opportunities. Also, Indians lives were greatly affected by the extermination of buffalo. Yet, while Indians dependent greatly on buffalo for their main source of food, clothing, and many inedible by-products, the white destroyed them in massive number as hunting sport. A final form, cultural genocide, it explains how Indians' languages, religions, values, and cultures was lost or drastically swapped.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Thanks to the Red Power Movement and many other Indians movements, their efforts have strengthened the prospects for Indian self-determination in the political, economic, education and religious realm. They have helped to make Indian people more visible to the whites and whites began to realize that Indian was our first and natural citizen. However, the government in particular, owns it to the Indians to give them an opportunity to be a full participant in economic, political, and education. They need to put into practice and to bring to fruition some of the reforms and treaties with the American Indians that are long overdue.

Of Gods And Romans Essay -- essays research papers

Of Gods and Romans The Romans during the time of their Republic relied on their advanced technology, social structure, leadership and politics to achieve as much as they did. To these people, their gods affected all of these factors and the relationships mankind had with them. The contractual relationship between mankind and the gods involved each party in giving, and in return receiving services. The Romans believed that spirits residing in natural and physical objects had the power to control the processes of nature, and that man could influence these processes by symbolic action. The first is a primitive form of religious creed; the second a type of magic. The services by which the Romans hoped to influence the forces that guided their lives were firmly established in ritual - the ritual of prayer and the ritual of offering. In either case, the exact performance of the rite was essential. One slip, and you had to go back to the beginning and start again. The very multiplicity of deities caused problems, as did the gender of some of them: 'wether you be god or goddess' was a common formula in Roman prayers. The motivations of the sacrifices are what of interest. Most of the time, sacrifices took place for purification, supplication, or celebration. The purification ritual was one that was performed before battle (285). Asking for a deed to be done was very popular as well. One usually asked for victory and good fortune in battle (20). Celebration is the event that seems to be the most spectacular of all. Whether it is in joy of an enemies’ death, such as Mithridates (201), the end of illness of a leader like Pompey (218), or simply the merriment that comes after large victory, we see this in Caesar’s winnings in Gaul (264). Some sacrificial events took place in order to ask forgiveness and appeasement for defeat of a religious enemy (90 – 91). Any sacrificial routine was elaborate and messy. The head of the victim was sprinkled with wine and bits of sacred cake made from flour and salt. Then its throat was cut and it was disemboweled to ensure there was nothing untoward about its entrails. If there was, it was not only a bad omen, but the whole process had to be repeated with a fresh animal until it came out right. The vital organs were burnt upon the altar and the carcass cut into pieces and eaten on the spot, or else laid aside. Then the priest, we... ...als to changes in social conditions and attitudes. To the Romans, the observance of religious rites was a public duty rather than a private impulse. Their beliefs were founded on a variety of unconnected and often inconsistent mythological traditions, many of them derived from the Greek rather than Italian models (90 – 91). Without any basic creed to counter them, foreign religions easily made inroads into a society whose class-structure was being blurred and whose constitution was being changed by social change. The brilliance of some of the major foreign cults had considerable attraction for those brought up on homespun deities of the hearth and fields. Compare to modern society, the Romans seem extremely superstitious. But then today's major religions have all throughout their past discouraged, even combated, superstitions. Also present-day sciences and technological world allow little room for superstition. The Romans lived in an era previous to this. Their world was full of unexplained phenomena, darkness and fear. These characteristics affected every aspect of Roman life. To Romans, these superstitions were a perfectly natural part in the relationship between gods and men.

Media regs

Though freedom of the press is protected and guaranteed by the First Amendment, there have virtually always been laws limiting and defining that freedom.   These restricts stem from English common law regarding libel and defamation and from the attempts of the United States government to keep up with ever changing modern times.The initial restrictions on the freedom of the press were only in regards to libel and defamation. These concepts, dating to before the adoption of the American Constitution, were inherited restriction of the freedom of the press. Ultimately though, in American law at least, they   come down to a singular defense. It’s not libel or defamation if it is true.Libel laws require that the victim be identified, that the thing being written damages them in the eyes of a significant minority and that the accusation not be true. Under American law, truth is the ultimate libel defense. However, the American court system has also long held that the freedom does not extend to the press the right to deliberately and with malice harm a person or group by reporting fiction.   If the issue being reported is true, then there is no libel. This differs from other countries around the world, including Australia, where libel simply involves damaging another person’s reputation and the claim can be made whether or not the facts in evidence support the accusations made.The important distinctions of American libel law in lie in identification and the concept of a significant minority.   In the part, American courts have ruled that identification does not necessarily mean by name. Identification can be implied, so that a significant number of people can figure out who the individual is that is being discussed or it can be as a member of a group. For example, even if Bob Jones is never identified by name as a member of the library board, he is a part of that group.If the press then accuses all library board members of being tax cheats, and Jo nes is not, then he has been libeled as part of an identifiable group. The other interesting caveat of the law and the administration of libel law is that the victim must only prove that their reputation was damaged within a significant minority.   This wording leaves a great deal up to the discretion of the court, both in determining what is a significant minority and when that minority might believe the things that are published about an individual. Ultimately though, all journalism students in the U.S. are taught that truth is the ultimate defense. If the issue being reported is true, there is no libel.Further restricting the freedom of the press is the concept of defamation of character.   This is the statute under which most lawsuits against tabloid magazines were brought before the more modern move to accuse them of invasion of privacy. Libel requires that a person suffer actual damage as a result of the insult to their reputation, i.e. the loss of a job, relationship or s ome tangible asset. Defamation simples requires that a person was injured by the falsehoods spoken or written about them.This was well and good until 1964 when the Supreme Court ruled that public persons, politicians and others who earn their living via being in the limelight, could only sue for defamation when they could prove actual malice. This meant that unless the public figure, say the president, for example, could prove that the news organization concocted false stories knowingly for the sole purpose of harming him, he would have no right to sue. If the story was true, then he definitely had no grounds to stand on.In 1798, the U.S. Congress further restricted the freedom of the press with the Sedition Act of 1798. The sedition act said, among other things, that any â€Å"false, scandalous or malicious writings† that bring damage to the U.S. Congress, the President, or any branch of the government were illegal (Wisconsin Journalism 2005). The laws regarding seditious li bel were used to keep the press from criticizing the government and to restrict the freedom of the press. Furthermore, the government has always seen fit to regulate â€Å"adult content† in print and has in recent years also restricted the types of advertising allowed in some form of media.However, with the advent of and expansion of radio and television, the U.S. government determined it necessary to create an entirely new arm of the government to regulate the media, the Federal Communications Commission. The FCC was begun as a means of controlling the airwaves with a lot of lofty goals in place. Allegedly, there was a concern about air space.The frequency the broadcast media was using had to be apportioned so that radio stations were not stepping on each other’s signals, preventing anyone from receiving clear reception. Furthermore, by regulating the size and power of the broadcast tower, the FCC claimed it was preventing the rcih stations from dominating the airwave s with might instead of talent or desire. The plan then, was to increase competition by making sure than everyone was on a level playing field.As time progressed, the FCC also worried about the influence that the broadcast media held and installed limitations on the number of television stations and radio stations that could be controlled by a single company or person. The idea was to again promote competition and prevent one faction from having superior control over the information accessible to the average citizen.   In further support of this, in 1949, the FCC instituted the Fairness Doctrine, a rule that said if a broadcast media gave a specific amount of time to one side of an issue, it was required to give the same amount of time to the other side.This was done theoretically to promote fair and balanced reporting of issues so that the public could make informed decision regarding political issues, rather than being completely influenced by hearing only one side of an issue. Paid advertising was exempted, except that the media had to charge the same price to whatever person wanted to buy advertising space rather than offering special deals to the side of an issue supported by the editorial staff of the station.The fairness doctrine was later withdrawn as unnecessary, but there have been some efforts recently to bring it back. Largely, these efforts come in the form of diatribes against right-wing talk radio, saying that because the talk show hows do not present fair and balanced reporting of the issues, the stations which air them should be forced to offer a show with a counter point. Opponents of this argue that free market competition has made the right-wing talk shows profitable and that commerce, not politics, has dictated the content of most broadcast stations.Because of the differing availability of broadcast television and radio, the FCC has also felt more comfortable with restricting the types of advertising that these stations may accept and wh en they may air it.   The FCC banned some alcohol commercials and all cigarette advertising from the broadcast media in an attempt to legislate a healthier country. Proponents of the restrictions say that manufacturers were unfairly using the psychological impact of broadcasting to influence people of an inappropriate age range to drink or smoke. Further restrictions have run the gamit from requiring alcohol manufacturers to encourage responsible drinking to forcing tobacco companies to rethink and redesign trademark logos.In short, the FCC has tried to regulate the broadcast media at any turn that it appears the American public is likely to accept. They have been able to do this by differentiating between the press and the mass media when it suits them. And, the FCC has tried to regulate the print media as well, from suing Hustler for its publication of pornography to creating and overseeing joint operating agreements between major metropolitan newspapers, forcing the papers, onc e owned by the same company, to maintain separate editorial boards to preserve the appearance of competition and diversity in news.The FCC has also tried to regulate even more modern media forms with attacks on the internet and attempts to regulate how Americans access the world wide web.   This over regulation has led to a backlash with many people believing that the industry needs to be de-regulated and the FCC in a precarious position. In recent years it has fined broadcast networks for the language and behavior of shock jocks, for â€Å"wardrobe malfunctions† at the Super Bowl, and for language used during prime time television.But an increasingly media savvy nation is demanding that they back off. Yes, some people were offended with the sight of Janet Jackson’s breast in a time when people believed the programming to be â€Å"family-friendly†, but at the same time, people are also calling on the offended to regulate themselves and turn off the programs th ey find offensive. Many people no longer believe in the government’s right or need to protect people. After all, what tech savvy child can’t find his way to much more gratuitous sites on the internet?The relaxing of the regulations on the broadcast media is long overdue.   The broadcast media has been ham strung for years by the overregulation by the FCC. It has suffered through undue restrictions and made to compete with cable television which did not suffer from the same sort of restrictions. They have been subjected to the whims of the FCC and have had restricted advertising revenues due to FCC regulations. The reality is that Americans are tech savvy enough now to restrict themselves. If they want to keep their families from viewing in appropriate materials, they can do so via parental controls or a v-chip.   It should not be the government’s responsibility to legislate morality.Furthermore, the regulations either need to be applied across the board or n ot at all. The FCC has not kept pace with technology in the modern era, and has thus not had Congress give it jurisdiction over newer forms of communication including cable television and satellite radio. As these things become commonplace, by regulating the broadcast media that uses the free airwaves and not the pay-for-use broadcast media,   the FCC places the free media at a distinct disadvantage and should not do so.While some restrictions on the freedom of the press, such as libel and defamation laws are appropriate, laws aimed at â€Å"protecting society† from itself, including advertising and pornography restrictions should be lifted. Once again, the government should trust the free market to decide as it did in the Imus’ case. No FCC interference was needed to get the bigoted talk show host off the air. The fair market did its job, demanding that he be removed or th station face lost revenue. That should be the way the media is regulated.WORKS CONSULTED †Å"America’s Battle over Media Ownership† The Economist, Sep. 11, 2003. , June 29, 2007.Hendrickson, Chris T and Francis Clay McMichael. â€Å"Controlling Contraditctions among Regulations†   The American Economic Review, Vo. 75, No. 4. Sep., 1985, pp. 876-877.â€Å"Media Regulation†, PBS,, June 29, 2007.

Should Mobile Phones Be Allowed in Schools

Children should be allowed to use their mobile phones in class because they can serve as ‘learning aids', a study claims today. Academics are calling on schools to rethink bans on phone handsets after trials suggested that functions such as calculators, stopwatches and email can be ‘educational'. However, the call is certain to infuriate many teachers and parents, who will be concerned that pupils will be unable to resist the temptation to put the devices to less productive uses, such as cyber-bullying or cheating in tests.During a nine-month experiment involving classes aged 14 to 16, pupils either used their own mobiles in lessons or the new generation of ‘ smartphones' which allow internet connection. They were used to create short films, set homework reminders, record a teacher reading a poem and time experiments with the phones' stopwatches. The smartphones also allowed pupils to access revision websites, log into the school email system, or transfer electronic files between school and home.The study by researchers at Nottingham University involved 331 pupils in schools in Cambridgeshire, West Berkshire and Nottingham. ‘At the start of the study, even pupils were often surprised at the thought that mobile phones could be used for learning,' Dr Elizabeth Hartnell-Young will tell the annual conference of the British Educational Research Association in Edinburgh later today. ‘After their hands-on experience, almost all pupils said they had enjoyed the project and felt more motivated. One teacher told researchers that students like mobiles and they know how to use them. ‘Using this technology gives them more freedom to express themselves without needing to be constantly supervised,' the teacher said. However, the report admits that some teachers think greater use of mobile phones in schools could prove problematic. Increased temptation to steal phones belonging to the school was one worry. ‘I thought, well, four of the se smartphones†¦ Should Mobile Phones Be Allowed in Schools Mobile phones are extremely helpful after school when you’re travelling home. Your parent/ guardian can contact you regarding family matters and also after school if you have to walk your parent can phone you to make sure you’re secure. Likewise Mobile phones also provide safety and protection in times of need. If for example you are in danger of some sort you can phone someone quickly and inconspicuously. In addition if the child goes missing the police can track the mobile and parents can check in on the Childs location.Also mobiles can help if there is an emergency; your parents can phone you direct instead of phoning the office which would take longer. This would be more effective because your parent can tell you exactly what’s going on instead of having a message passed to you. If for example your Gran was ill in hospital your mum or dad etc. could phone or text you updates through out the day. Mobiles also brings families together –They don’t seem to have much time to spend together anymore due to overtime and after-school activities, having the ability to communicate with any one of your family member helps bringing families together.Similarly if you forget something important like homework or your lunch you can contact your parent /guardian and they can drop it off. This would help when you have an important essay, for example, due but you forgot it at home. This would help make sure that all your homework is on time and would help teachers when they have to mark homework. Likewise if you are unwell in school, you can phone your parent to let them know. This would be helpful because your parent would be able to pick you up or can tell you what to do.Moreover mobile phones could save money because they could be used as calculators and can be used to record/ write notes. This would save a lot of money on paper which would make the school more eco friendly and money could be used on other equipment instead of just calcula tors which can be found on all phones, although teachers would have to supervise and trust pupils not to stray from the task. Another benefit would be that pupils can record important dates in their phone to help with important deadlines and exams.A final reason is that mobiles could be used for a wide range of educational purposes, including creating short movies, setting homework reminders, recording a teacher reading a poem and timing science experiments. Mobiles which can connect to the internet, also allowed pupils to access revision websites, log into the school email system, or transfer electronic files between school and home. Experts have claimed that using a mobile gains children’s confidence because the technology is familiar to them.

Aspects of love †Romeo and Juliet Essay

Now Juliet’s father has a leading role in Juliet’s â€Å"love life†. In Verona the people were catholic and it was to have arranged marriages. With Juliet as a young teenager, Capulet thought she might have been too young to get married; Capulet- â€Å"My child is yet a stranger in the world; She hath not seen the change of fourteen years, Let two more summers wither in their pride, Ere we may think her ripe to be a bride. † He was telling this to Paris. He was close to the Capulets and he seemed to impress Lady Capulet more then he did Juliet. In the story, Capulet had a few children, with Juliet as the youngest, but all part from Juliet had died through child hood. Death was very common in Elizabethan times, with the plague about and not very good medication, at least 1 in three children would most probably die through their child hood. With Juliet being his only child left, he would have liked her to have a happy life with a decent man and a decent living. He chose Paris to be more then suitable, Capulet-â€Å"And too soon marr’d are those so early made. The earth hath swallow’d all my hopes but she, She is the hopeful lady of my earth: But woo her, gentle Paris, get her heart† But maybe he didn’t want to let her go just as yet. Capulets had a reputation to live up to, and the father wanted to keep it that way. Lady Capulet wasn’t really much of a motherly figure in the story to Juliet. She never seemed to talk to her much, and when she did they were more like commands. Juliet must have been use to this as she would address her politely; Juliet- â€Å"Madam, I am here. What is your will? † Was their any family love such as the hugs, stories and giving motherly advice between Lady Capulet and Juliet? From what it seems Lady Capulet, being the Lady of the house hold is more being busy around else where rather then ever being with her daughter. The nurse played a bigger part in Juliet’s life. She gave advice, and wanted Juliet to be happy, she was not into the ‘keeping the Capulets dignity’, she didn’t seem to be the kind of person to judge but she only told Juliet what she thought would be best for her. They talk of Juliet getting married, but Lady Capulet only asks if she would and not how she feels about the whole situation, alike Lord Capulet she is soon is suggesting of her marrying Paris. Lady Capulet- â€Å"Marry, that ‘marry’ is the very theme I came to talk of. Tell me, daughter Juliet, How stands your disposition to be married? † Juliet- â€Å"It is an honour that I dream not of. † In a respectful way, Juliet has already sorted her way of getting married. She is telling her mother that although she’s honoured to be in such a position in which her family would be proud of, it’s not her ideal way of living with someone for the rest of her life. Maybe she knew what she was looking for in love, that’s if she was looking for love at that time. Paris says he loves Juliet, and wants to marry her. But from what we see, he hardly knows Juliet, not like Romeo. They don’t have the chemistry. Juliet is charmed, and he is very gentlemen like. But what is love to Paris. Paris-This is that banish’d haughty Montague, That murder’d my love’s cousin, with which grief†¦ To Paris, he wants to marry a girl who will have his children and look good, so to speak. Like the Capulets or Montague way of raising a family, not through caring love but through pride and dignity. Paris- â€Å"younger than she are happy mothers made. † Through Juliets aspect of love, before she even meet Romeo, we see that there was no other interest in men, not even when Lady Capulet asked her what she though about marrying Paris. She just replied that she is something she would not dream of. When she met Romeo she instantly clicked with him. She was impressed by the way he spoke to her, and the words he used. No one had probably talked to her in such a way before. Romeo- Romeo’s mother and father aren’t really mentioned much in the play. Lord Capulet says he is confused about his son, that he is withdrawn and he doesn’t really know him. Although he see’s him withdrawn to himself he wants him to â€Å"dedicate his beauty to the sun†, share his thoughts. Lady Capulet seem to care about Romeo as much, Lady Capulet- â€Å"O where is Romeo? Saw you him today? Right glad I am he was not at this fray. † It looks as though his parents are concerned about him very much, they look out for their son, try to know where he is, as they know he is a sensitive and gentle person. It’s very common for parent to be protective over their children in a family. Within the Montague’s, their family is based around such care of each other, and not so much about dignity, even though he was brought up to think about the families pride and dignity. Romeo and his Cousin Benvolio hang about together; he is out most of the time with him and his best friend Mercutio. He talks to both of them about love, with Juliet and with Rosaline. Now with Rosaline, Romeo thought he was in love when in fact he was just infatuated by her class, beauty and plain hard to get. He soon gets over her when he meets Juliet. Romeo and Juliet both fell for each other at the party at the Capulets house party. The first time they spoke, they both talked with holy language, and Juliet (who was quite a religious person) was taken by his flattering words, the first time they spoke. Romeo- â€Å"If I profane with my unworthiest hand This holy shrine, the gentle sin is this, my lips, two blushing pilgrims, ready stand to smooth that rough touch with a tender kiss. † Juliet- â€Å"Good pilgrim, you do wrong your hand too much, which mannerly devotion shows in this, for saints have hands that pilgrims’ hands do touch, and palm to palm is holy palmers’ kiss. † They only speak like this to each other, Juliet who has never been spoken to like this before is fascinated. By him by the end of the night, she does not want to leave him and he does not want to leave her. She warns him of the dangers he would be in if he got caught but he still risks all that just to see her that one night. At this point their views of love for each other begin. This is where they want to get to know each other, as they have never meet anyone like each other before. They probably felt that no-one has ever understood them before as they did in this one night. Juliet starts to believe in love, and Romeo finds that Rosaline was not true love after all, and these guys wouldn’t want to loose contact after this night. Friar Lawrence finds that these too are meant to be. Being a Friar, it does not refer to him believing in arranged marriages. But he thought that bringing Romeo and Juliet together would solve and bury the conflict between the too rival families, Montagues and Capulets. That they would find to love each other through Romeo and Juliets love for each other. He knew that Romeo and Juliet loved each other deeply so he risked this to solve the family feud as he believed that they wouldn’t part because of there families, because they had stayed together this far.

Experience essay Essay

It all started ten years ago, an event that would change my life forever.I had my first known seizure and it was perhaps the scariest moment in my life. It wasn’t the seizure that scared me, mostly because i was asleep when it happened, but it was the way my mother and father reacted. It was as if they had just seen a ghost. They were in disbelief. I could tell by the way they were looking at me that something terrible had just happened and nobody, including the paramedics was telling me what happened. All i know is that it had felt like I had ran a marathon in my sleep and could barely move, my whole right side of my body numb and discombobulated. Even though this was one of the worst days in my life I also consider it to be one of the best days too, because thats the day I realized I was destined for greatness. I say I’m destined for greatness because i believe one hundred percent that I am, plain and simple. As a kid I was constantly told I wouldn’t amount to anything and that I couldn’t overcome my disability. For instance, at a young age I went to go get some testing done by Alexian Brothers, their test told me that i wouldn’t succeed in pretty much every subject needed to achieve my goals in real life, yet here I am. Even though I had some hiccups my first two years because of medical issues, I persevered and graduated High school and have now set my goals on getting my associates degree because i’m a fighter. I have to fight, grind, and push my way through everyday just so I can understand some of the most simplest things, but its worth it because it makes me stronger and stronger. i can honestly say that im proud to be epileptic because it has allowed me to grow in ways that might not have been possible if I were a regular teenage kid. I’ve matured much quicker than I should have by having to take care of myself when my parents aren’t around. I’ve been taking myself to doctors appointments and having to get blood drawn for as long as i can remember, and as far as I’m concerned no teenager should go through this because not only is it physically straining but it is ten times worse mentally and I think it goes to show how well and extremely lucky i am. I’ve come a long ways from that little eight year old kid ten years ago. I went from a frightened, scared kid who had no idea what epilepsy was or what it did, to a extremely confident young man who works harder than anyone else just to prove he’s worthy, and I believe I am because ever since I realized i was destined for greatness I haven’t let anything get in my way and I don’t  intend to in the future.

Call a Patient Regarding an Overdue Account Essay

Call a Patient Regarding an Overdue Account - Essay Example The role of MA is to resolve the issue without hurting patient’s feeling. Attitude has three components. The three components are; affective, behavioral and cognitive (McLeod, 2009). Affective component deals with feeling, behavioral component deals with behavior, and cognitive component deals with belief and knowledge. The MA needs to realize that he or she will face patient’s three attitude components. At the same time, the MA has his or her own three attitude components. The role of the MA is to provide privilege to patient’s attitude components. The MA needs to remember attitude can express both positive and negative views over an event. The event in this case is past due hospital charges. The MA needs to remember that people can also be conflicted or ambivalent (McLeod, 2009) toward an object. The object in this case is the call itself. Answer 1: The MA demonstrates professionalism at stages 2b, 2e and 3. At the stage 2 b, the MA will face all three above-described attitude components. The MA in no way should mention to the patient about avoiding the payment. At the stage 2e, MA should express that hospital understands patient’s current inability in making payment, but it will help the hospital to know when the patient can make the payment. At stage 3 MA should be extremely professional in leaving the message so the patient returns the call. Answer: The MA demonstrates sensitivity to the situation at stage 2b. This is a make or break point for further discussion. Depending on the approach, the MA will face either positive or negative attitude of the patient towards the issue. Q3. If the patient gets really angry about this call, and yells and gets rude, how would you demonstrate professionalism and sensitivity? Write some things you could say in this situation that would be professional and sensitive? Answer: This is when the patient will use

Biology Blog Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Biology Blog - Essay Example I would ask about his family history to establish whether there have been other members who have been victims of atherosclerosis. Apart from the apparent smoking, I would I would strive to establish other risk factors that are predisposing this patient to worsen his health by carrying out diagnostic tests e.g. ECG, exercising for stress test, or CT scan. This will determine the extent of this condition in order to advice on treatment. Treatment would include first discussing with the patient about his symptoms and the dangers that they pose to him and those around him. He should begin by taking charge of his smoking and recommend that he should eventually quit the habit. Other lifestyle habits to avoid are getting rid of foods high in cholesterol and alternatively adopt low fat and low salt diets. Exercises should begin if he has not been active before as this helps to increase the flow of blood throughout his body system and burns out fats. In addition to lifestyle changes, I would recommend certain medication that will aid the heart in working more effectively. This will depend on the condition of his heart at that moment. Aspirin can be taken as soon as he experiences shortness of breath to aid in breaking up any possible blood clot. 2. An important quality that makes organisms living things is their ability to maintain homeostasis. Describe an example where animals or humans (again, you may or may not choose to use personal experiences) have gone through either a negative or positive feedback mechanism to maintain homeostasis. The maintenance of a relatively constant internal environment despite external environmental changes is homeostasis. One example of a positive feedback mechanism in Homeostasis in seen in the sweating activity. The activity of the sweat glands in our bodies is an important process through which we strive to conserve or release body heat. Just like the way we

Analysis Of The Sir Gawain And The Green Knight Essay

Analysis Of The Sir Gawain And The Green Knight - Essay Example The story of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight is based on the challenges that are made against his ethics in terms of being a knight and the changes that come with age that refine those ethical considerations. The heart of the tale begins as Arthur asks for a story to be told that would inspire him to eat his dinner. At this point, the Green Knight appears and wants to talk to Arthur. He comes to challenge the court because he wants to know whether or not the court and its knights can live up to their legend. The challenge is that one of the knights can take one swing of his giant ax and in exactly a year the Green Knight can return that swing. Sir Gawain uses the ax to cut off the Green Knight’s head when the Knight has offered his neck for the blow. For most people, this would be the end of the game, but the Green knight speaks and reminds the assembly of the deal they have struck before taking his head and riding out of the celebration. Use of the word covenant appears frequently throughout the book, creating a sense of obligation between characters in the story. When the Green Knight first faces Sir Gawain who is to be the person with whom he exchanges strokes of the ax he says â€Å"Make we our covenant ere we go further†, suggesting that the agreement is the lynchpin on which the entire ‘game’ is based (Weston 14). This creates a foundation of ethics on which the events that unfold can be examined. It is the ethical and moral character of Sir Gawain, as well as that of Arthurs court, which is being examined through honoring the idea of a covenant. There is a description of the changing of seasons that occurs within the poem. The changing of the seasons can be equated with the idea of the change that occurs over time as a person begins to mature. The seasonal changes are reflective of the cycle of life in which Sir Gawain believes he has come to an end.

Construction Economics Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Construction Economics - Assignment Example These economic cycles form an important feature of a market driven economy. When the economy is booming the industrial sector achieves maximum growth and is said to be achieving its maximum potential. The total market value of all commodities and services that are provided within a country during a set financial period is defined as the country’s GDP or gross domestic product. (Best Aaron, 2007) Economic activities of the Government and the construction industry It is not always the policies followed by the government that affect economic activity. There might be several impediments happening in the international front affecting the construction industry. Recession is a key index that needs to be keeps a tab regarding the performance of an economy and how the economic activities of the government are affecting the industry as a whole. Some of these Recessions’ that the government needs to keep a tab on are (Blake et al, 2004) 1. Inventory Recession- Too much optimism re garding the future growth and potential of the market can cause an increase of production foreseeing future market prices of raw materials. This can lead to overstocking of both raw materials and finished items. However if the markets are not expanding with the same potential it leads to accumulation of stock leading to recession. 2. Rolling Recession- Due to an economic slowdown several sections of an economy are hit each to a certain degree which varies according to the nature of each sector. This dip in activity in one sector can severely hamper the prospects of another sector since all industrial processes follow close synergy of activities. Recovery in one sector might not lead to the same taking place in another sector. (Blake et al, 2004) 3. Unexpected political events, elections, wars, coups, natural and manmade disasters can also cause severe impediments in economic activity. 4. Wrong Government Policies- Every government follows a monetary and fiscal policy that it deems i s best suited for that country. However mistakes on this front cause the government in incorrect borrowing and lending of money. This leads to extremely large fiscal deficit making the economy severely handicapped.( Verick Sher and Islam Iyanatul, 2010) 5. All banks operating in the public and private domain are assessed and regulated by institutions under the government. Inefficiency of these institutions leads to banks lending without assessing the paying capacity of customers. This can cause huge liability to the banks if the loans are not fully recovered. Instability in banks leads to capital shortage for industrial and construction development. 6. The vagaries of oil production in the OPEC countries can cause fuel price to shoot up severely. These activities directly affect the cost of construction raw materials since a large part of construction activity deals with transportation of raw materials to site. This therefore adversely affects all construction related activities. 7. Seasonal variations are inevitable and are beyond the realm of government control since there would be months during a financial periods which experiences hectic activity usually during festival seasons followed by moths of dullness. This can cause seasonal variations in economic cycles. However, how much of this dip would affect the general economy of a country depends on the policies followed by the government and the robustness of the industrial sector at that given point of time. (Blake et al, 20

News Paper article Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

News Paper - Article Example l honors and awards this year which include: Honor Student, Outstanding Student Council Service, National Junior Honor Society, Million Word Reader for the 2008-2009 School Year, an excellent overall result on her 2009 CRCT test and now, the recipient of the Stephen Foundation Essay Contest. Alicia Hampton is the daughter of Kevin T. and Sonya Hampton and her proud grandparents are Arnett and Mary Ann Williams of Whigham Georgia. Alicia is also an outstanding student, attending Whigham Elementary School and maintaining her name on the Honor Roll List. She has been an outstanding student and has now contributed to her awards with the 2009 Stephen Foundation Essay Contest. The Foundation is proud of the accomplishments of these two outstanding students and applaud their efforts for researching their work well and for closely following the instructions for the essay. The two students will not only be honored with the award, but will each receive a mini-laptop, a $500 check, and a backpack full of school supplies that will last throughout the