A Thousand Splendid Suns: Analysis

Create questions you would ask the author and at least one of the people in the book. Include why you would ask each particular question, and connect the question to a specific event (quote with page #) in the book. If I were to ask questions to the author and characters, they would be about their experiences. The one question I would ask Khaled Hosseini is, All the characters in this book were granted poetic justice, but why not Mariam? Mariam did nothing monstrous to deserve execution; her act of killing Rasheed was done in self-defense and the defense of Laila. Nonetheless, she suffered the shame and punishment from the government under which she lived in. â€Å"Like a compass needle that points north, a man’s accusing finger always finds a woman. Always. You remember that, Mariam. †pg. 364 Even though Mariam’s execution was injustice in my eyes I believe that for Mariam her death sentence was an legitimate end to her life which had legitimate beginnings. Before her death sentence, she recites lines from the Koran asking for mercy and forgiveness which portrays her humbleness and her dedication to loved ones in her life. I would like to ask Mariam why she refused to call witnesses at her trial. Why did she not try to escape with Tariq and Laila? Calling witnesses to her trial could have proved to be beneficial to Mariam; she might not have been sentenced to death but she didn’t even try. â€Å"Remembering the last time she’d signed her name to a document, twenty- seven years before, at Jalil’s table, beneath the watchful gaze of another mullah. pg. 364 There was still a little hope left her, her dreams were to see Laila and Tariq happy and to watch Aziza and Zalmai grow but just like that she gave it all up. Her life had not ended but she still acted as if there was nothing that could be done; she herself gave up her hopes which contrasted her character at the beginning of the book. Lastly, I would like to ask Kh aled why was Laila not given a chance to attend university and complete her secondary education? It is obvious in the early stages of the book that her dream is be educated and educate others so that she can play a women’s worthy role in their society. Her young self is contradicting to what her character becomes. I wonder why after building her family and living in peace she didn’t have the desire to attend university. She had a good opportunity and I feel it would have benefited her and her family a lot. One question I would ask Laila is why she wanted to move back to Kabul? Wasn’t she done with all the suffering and painful memories she endured there? â€Å"†¦Where do we go from here, Tariq? How long do we stay here? This isn’t home. Kabul is†¦Ã¢â‚¬ pg. 390 I realize it was her homeland, she grew up there and the Kabul they left during the war was now half restored; though why would she risk the lives of her family members and their freedom they obtained in Murree. â€Å"It’s a good life, Laila tells herself, a life to be thankful for. It is, in fact, precisely the sort of life she used to dream for herself in her darkest days with Rasheed. †

How to Get Prepared and Start My Own Business Essay

All of us have a lot of ideas about the things that we think about; most of the time we do not even recognize how millions of ideas got through our brains. Even now, when I typed this sentence, it took a while for me to come up with an idea and put it into words, so that all the readers get exactly what I want them to understand after reading my writing. We use our ideas everywhere, since it is something that lets us process and understand the information that we already own and get the best result that is possible. People use ideas as their tool to make a right decision, and as we all know, we have a lot of decisions to make in our life. For me, the right idea is a treasure surrounded by many other ideas that are not the ones that will lead me to a right choice, which I have to make in certain amount of time. Examples of leading companies that came up with good ideas in business are: Facebook, Microsoft, Google, and AT&T. These worldwide well-known organizations started their business like any other person – from idea, but somehow they have achieved a better result, which means they had a better idea, better team, or better preparation and hard work with luck. Now, after having 17 years of experience in finding a right idea, I am on my way to find my own treasure, so that I will be able to realize my ideas in business world. That idea is one in a million. For now, I came up with a lot of ideas that will possibly bring me a wanted amount of profit after realizing them. Since I am on the right track, I should get prepared to start realizing my ideas and start my own business. There are a lot of people in the world who want to start and run their own business. Some of these people who start their business will get a satisfying sense of accomplishment after providing a service or a product that is enjoyed or used by customers. Most of them will be disappointed in their business, since the percentage of those who fail is higher than those who succeed. Feeling of a business executive after coming to work differs from the feeling that people meet when they work for someone else. Person who runs the business and person who assists and works for that person experience different emotions and work to do, but both of these jobs have their own cons and pros. Person who assists to run the business cares only about the wage that he or she gets in the end of the month, while the businessman cares about the whole organization, including staff, all the property, wages of his workers, working environment, advertisement, and else. The more power and opportunity you have, the more responsibility and problems you get. That one person who runs the company should make a perfect environment to work, including people who work for him, because they are a big part of his business that manage to realize his ideas, and make them work properly. More than one million people create their own business every year. All of them have an idea that they believe in, because idea plays a huge role, but it is not the only thing. Business is more than just an idea, and some people forget it and start without even being prepared. It needs a lot of time to plan, and also it requires certain people. Furthermore, it needs financial funding. Before even starting to prepare to be a business executive, person should ask himself if he is ready for that. Do I have that personality and skills to be successful in business? Do I have what it takes? I am sure that I do, so do my parents. That is the reason why I am continuing to make researches about business and reading news about politics in my country. That is the reason why I came to America, to a country that is far from mine. Before starting to prepare the environment I will be working in, I should prepare myself. I should have enough knowledge and information to understand everything me and my team will do. To do so, I should read news and articles about business. All businessmen have to be in that world, which is a world of business. There is always something that we do not know. That something might make business work better. People do not even know when they miss their chance to build a better business. People just lose their chances to get better, and that opportunity sometimes comes only once in the whole life. Since there are plenty of those who try to run their business, it is a competition, where you, as a businessman, should prove that you are capable of more than other businessmen around you. There is only one winner, and it should be you. That is why it is better to spend enough time preparing and have more chance to succeed, than start with unsafe steps. Since I am the person who will continue the family business, not start from the very beginning, I have more opportunity and chance than I would have had if I was the one who started the business. That person who worked hard is my father. What he did, is called a huge step. He brought his family from nothing to something in a short period of time, which usually takes more. Some people achieve their goal, but my father is one of those who achieved a goal that he did not even expect. He already reached a goal that should be reached in two generation. That is why, as the only son in our family, I should succeed at least like him, even though he, as a father, thinks I can do better. I have people who will help me to understand business, and how it works, because it is not something that you can understand by reading some rules on the paper. It is something that you understand by experiencing, something that we should feel. Business is about the team. Successful business based on products, and services that are made or provided by people. I should create a company that inspires faith and productivity. In order to make revenue, I should understand people’s way of thinking; understand what their needs are, and how to provide them in the best way. How did such companies as Apple and Microsoft get so big and successful? These companies found a product that best responds to real human needs and desires. This problem is important to all the people who want to start their own business. It is related to business. This question is being discussed everywhere on internet, on the forums, by experts, and by people who have failed in starting a business, or by people who succeeded. They share their experience and give tips that can help to people like me, people who are getting prepared to start a business. This subject is interesting for me, because it determines my future. It helps me to understand what exactly I am going to do, in order to be prepared to start business, which is what I am going to do for living. There are many ways of getting prepared, choosing the right one, and choosing the right idea is one of the most important steps. Even though I am sure that I will succeed with the help of my family, I still have to make research and be one of those who try hard to be closer to business. Business is like a big house. In order to build a big and beautiful one, we should have an idea of how to make, and be prepared. If the foundation is strong, then are on the right way. There are basic steps to start my business. First of all I should research and plan my business. It will help me to understand what it takes to realize my plans. After researching and planning, I should get business assistance. That step will help me prepare a business plan and expanding my business. After that, I should choose a business location and finance my business. To do, depending on my business type, I should find a place that will work out the best for my business. If it is, for example, a hotel, it should in a place that is easy to reach for tourists, but is not noisy, so that customers can enjoy their time in the hotel. After doing these four steps, I should determine the legal structure of my business. It could be sole partnership, partnership, corporation, etc. If I am not ready to do my business alone, I can find a partner or partners that believe in my idea and ready to finance. Having more people is always better, which means that you will have more resources and more ideas. If a company has more than one holder, it always causes problems, because of disagreement and revenue that should be divided. Next step in order to start business is registration of a business name, and getting a local license. After these steps, everything is ready to work, including the workers that you should hire.

Medical Marijuana: Good or Bad?

On April 14, 2011, I read an article in the New York Times that read Pat Robertson Questions Prison for Pot Convictions. (Shear) The article had caught my eye because of who Pat Robertson is and how you wouldn’t think he would be for the legalization of Marijuana. I would have to agree with what Pat goes on to say and how I feel a lot of it makes sense. â€Å"I’m not exactly for the use of drugs, don’t get me wrong, but I just believe that criminalizing marijuana, criminalizing the possession of a few ounces of pot, that kind of thing, it’s just, it’s costing us a fortune and it’s ruining young people,† Mr. Robertson said. Young people go into prisons; they go in as youths and come out as hardened criminals. That’s not a good thing. † That is what Pat Robertson, the televangelist who once ran for president, said on his show â€Å"The 700 Club† while mentioning how thought marijuana being legalized can be a good thin g. I am a 41 year old wife and mother who has had her fair share of life experiences. My past experiences include using marijuana from time to time when I was younger. I never became an avid user and only remember having a good time when I used. I distinctively remember how its effects relaxed me more and put me more at ease. Unfortunately, prison and jail are also in my past experiences and that’s where I have to agree with Mr. Robertson and what he says in this article. I do believe that people being put in jail and prisons for minor marijuana charges is doing nothing but costing us millions in dollars in prosecuting them and subjecting these people to offenders who are there for much more dangerous offenses. My marijuana use and jail time had nothing to do with one another. I was sentenced for something wrong that I had done and was rightfully sentenced for that crime. I took it very serious and did what needed to be done to get back home and start over. If it’s not taken seriously and it’s not used as a positive stepping stone it can be very easy to get caught up with the wrong people and negative drama that jail brings and the bad things good people can learn and take with them when released. Each year, some 750,000 Americans are arrested for possession of small amounts of marijuana. Is that really what we want our police force to focus on? I am not a Cannabis activist, but the real truth is, I would much rather have pot in bars than alcohol any day. I am so tired of the fights that break out or all the DUI’s that people get all the time. In most my research, I haven’t found any real statistics on how marijuana poses the same result? Alcohol, which can cause one to become violent and even cause death does not compare with marijuana, where one can’t OD or cause death by over-intoxication. A spokesperson for Mr. Robertson goes on to say that Mr. Robertson did not intend to suggest support for the legalization of marijuana, but rather to question the severity of how our government punishes those who use or possess a small amount of the drug. Sarah Palin, who is against the legalization of marijuana, has said how she feels that our police force shouldn’t spend a lot of time hunting down these offenders. The drug policy that our government currently holds also plays a significant role in creating crime and empowering gangs. â€Å"The only groups that benefit from continuing to keep marijuana illegal are the violent gangs and cartels that control its distribution and reap immense profits from it through the black market†. That is what a group of current and former police officers, judges, and prosecutors wrote last month in an open letter to voters in California. Kristof) I would have to agree with that statement wholeheartedly. I strongly feel that if marijuana was legalized it would cease some of the violent and criminal activity in society. Legalizing marijuana for medical use is a huge debate within Americans and our government here in the United States. There are 15 states that allow medical marijuana to be distributed legally to its consumers. Here is a list of some of the medical issues that can be helped by the use of marijuana: * Pain Relief ( all types of Pain one might have) * Increases appetite (Cancer) * Decreased Nausea (AIDS/Cancer) Muscle relaxation (Multiple Sclerosis/Epileptic Seizures) * Enhances mood and senses (Depression and anxiety) * Encourages drowsiness and sleep (Multiple Sclerosis, Depression, Cancer and more) These are only some of the many medical issues that can be improved and benefited by the medicinal use of Marijuana. (Uddin/Hurd) After reading all the great ways marijuana can help someone when suffering from a medical problem makes you wonder why more states haven’t joined in on legalizing it. There is more evidence in backing up the pro than the con side of this litigation. I now want to introduce to you, Don Lisk, 57, and Sarah Baugh, both from Montana and both being prescribed medical marijuana for medicinal purposes, tell us of their experiences. In short, Don suffers from chronic back pain he has had for 20 years and tells us marijuana dulls the back pain enough to let him sleep better at night. He also says how pot takes the edge off the pain and he doesn’t suffer the withdrawal he experiences with the opiates such as Lortab. Sarah Baugh, 25, of Billings suffered 12 seizures a day while taking 14 medications that cost $2,000 a month. By using marijuana, she weaned herself off most of her medications and now takes just a small dose of anti-seizure medication. Baugh trimmed her drug costs from $2,000 to less than $600 a month. She dropped 150 pounds, lost the tremors and seizures. (weedblog. com) I have come to find out that marijuana can be used to produce green fuel for autos. How, because of its root structure, it makes the best erosion control. The oils from the seeds can be great for cooking. Just some other ways that marijuana can benefit within our society. I strongly agree that medical marijuana should be legalized and I also agree that marijuana use can be made safe and profitable for all parties involved. The economy would benefit by adding revenue and tax money. By providing it in a safe and regulated way it benefits those who need medical relief, and last but not least it would benefit society by allowing police to concentrate on more violent crimes and criminal activity. The only true losers to the legalization and decriminalization of marijuana are those who stand to make great deals of money from the illegal sales of pot and the transportation of it into the United States.

Turn around a plant of an engineering company thats losing money Literature review

Turn around a plant of an engineering company thats losing money - Literature review Example The engineering plant in Plymouth is currently losing out money which has been accounted to major areas of difficulty that have been identified in the operation of the engineering plant in Plymouth. The company manufactures chemical pumps for use in pumping a wide range of fluids like the oils, industrial fluids, chemicals, petrol, diesel, etc. The chemical pumps manufactured by the engineering plant of the company in Plymouth have been of poorer quality and a large number of pumps are being sent back by the customers for repairing. This has been eating up productivity time for the engineering plant in Plymouth and the company has been engaging into repetitive work that involved wastage of time and money required for scaling up the production levels. The relationship with the suppliers is also an area of problem (Kozami 46). The suppliers of the Plymouth engineering unit are frequently late in delivering the components and parts of the chemical pump. There have been increasing reluct ance of the suppliers in dealing with the company and supplying the parts required to assemble, manufacture and repair the chemical pumps. The third area of problem increases with the dissatisfaction of the customer as they tend to move away due to the extended time required for repairing of the products and the lower quality of products. The machineries and equipments used in the plant have become old and are subject to frequent breakdown. The replacement parts for repairing the machineries have also become difficult to obtain. Although the workforce of the Plymouth plant is skilled, their morale have been down due to the risk of closure of the plant and few workers fear that the management trainee has been sent to the plant for hastening the process of shut down (Bechet 78). All these are major problems that have been identified for the engineering plant in Plymouth. Review of literature: ways to handle problems in short term and long term A review of the literature provides the w ays to handle problems in the engineering plant in the short term and long term considering the situational problems due to which the company has been facing major difficulties in its operation with the internal and external stakeholders. The literature review suggests that every engineering plant faces the challenge of maintaining its equipments and machineries with time as they grow older. The engineering plants have also struggled to maintain the quality of its product due to several challenges of finance, relationships with the suppliers, etc. The ability to manufacture high quality products on a sustainable basis, provide repairing services to the customers, maintaining strong relationships with the customers and keeping high morale of the workforce of the engineering plants have determined the success level of the engineering plants (Sekhar 56). The engineering firms have adopted effective ways to ensure that they are able to handle the problems in their manufacturing units in the short term without moving to a position where they could easily run out of funds. In cases where the companies have faced situations in which the workforce have been down in morale, the managers of the engineering plants have held meetings with the workforce where it has explained that there is

Nike and Adidas Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Nike and Adidas - Essay Example Umbro, Hurley as well as Cole Haan are owned by Nike whereas Reebok, Tylor and Rockport are owned by Adidas. As introduced above, Nike and Adidas are the most popular companies in the world that produce sportswear. Both of their popularity is so significant in the world that they are perceived as household names. Both companies have also the same targets; their target involves people who love sports. Just like Nike, Adidas has also an international awareness because of its sponsorship to professional athletes as well as athletic teams. Adidas cuts its production cost by using low wage labor. The strategies used by the two sports giants in order to win more customers are very similar. For instance, it is evident that both are working extensively towards reducing their costs of production. It is also evident that they both take part in sponsoring different professionals and sports. Additionally, it is also evident that they produced different designs of sportswear so as to capture the interest of their customers. Nike is widely known in the world of not only their sponsorship, but also because of their expansion of their target market to individuals who participate in basketball as well as running. This is evidenced by the contract it signed with a famous basket ball player, Michael Jordan so that he can be its spokesperson. Additionally, it also signed a seven year contract with tennis player Serena Wiulliams so that he can market it in the world. Unlike in the past in which their market was solely domestic (the U.S.), their market has expanded internationally. In addition to changing shoe designs frequently, Nike has also created new appearance of shoes to capture the attention of the bored customers so as to stay ahead of its competitors. In addition to Nike using oversees factories in producing its products; it also maintains a close relationship with its suppliers so as to minimize costs as much as

Case report Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

Case report - Essay Example One issue facing the Chatime Company is in the product life cycle planning in which the product must go through some stages to enhance its marketability. The company’s head wants to open more branches to sell their tea in the Asian market. Introducing the brand in the new market will require a lot of market research and promotions to determine the likes of the new customers (Aladwani, 2001). The management is against the idea as they feel that it will be a difficult task to undertake since their market is composed of the Chinese. The product life cycles stages are its development, introduction, growth, maturity, and its decline. Products in the first three stages will require an intensive market research to establish them in the market. The product also requires a lot of development and advertisement to enable the consumers know that they exist in the market (Strategic Management, 2015). Focused leadership is very important in establishing a successful market for the product. Decision-making in this company is an issue owing to the fact that Zhao and the other Franchise are not in agreement as to where to open the new outlet. There are other tea stores such as Gongcha, which will offer stiff competition to Chatime products. Bore they see any substantial benefits from the new outlet, the company will spend a lot of money and other resources to convince their new client that they are offering the best product. Another reason that makes the decision a problem is due to the competition that already exist in the beverage market, which will require strong leadership and creativity to enable them capture as many customers as possible. The challenge is that all the leaders of the company do not support the idea although Zhao has the support of a few of them. The company will therefore, need to focus on product differentiation and leadership to win the market. The product life cycle planning will

Bio Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Bio - Assignment Example ADP is made up of two phosphate molecules while AMP is made up of a single phosphate molecule. Combination of two molecules of results in the production of AMP. As shown here 2ADP→ATP + AMP viii. Coenzymes refers to specific organic compounds that must be present for certain enzymes to do catalysis process e.g. nicotine adenine dinucleotide. Cofactor are specific organic compounds that are only requited to change the rate of catalysis i.e. to increase the rate of catalysis. Step 1 - In the first step, there is conversion of glucose to fructo-1, 6-biophosphate using ATP. At the same time, there is trapping of glucose inside the cell which is then converted to an unstable form that can easily be cleaved to 3 – carbon units. The formed fructo-1, 6-biophosphateis then cleaved into glycerladehyde-3-phosphate. x. Organisms respire without oxygen through incomplete breakdown of glucose in the absence of Oxygen. There causes a reduced oxidation of NADH to NAD+ and the process of glycolysis become ineffective. Instead, reduction of pyruvate to lactate generates NAD+, leading to production of only two ATPs of energy. i. Autotrophs are organisms that use inorganic materials and basic energy sources to manufacture organic molecules that contain energy. A prime example is plants. Plants use oxygen and sunlight to manufacture food through the process of photosynthesis. xi. The reaction centre is the site on which chemical reactions take place. It is a complex of numerous pigments, proteins and other co-factors that act together to perform the main energy conversin reaction processes of photosynthesis. xiii. Photosystem 2 appears before and produces ATP while photosystem 1 occurs after Photosystem 2 and it produces NADPH. Photosystem 1 is more sensitive to 700 nm of light wavelengths while photosystem 2 is sensitive to 680 nm of light wavelengths. xxi. The type of reactions used in the Calvin cycle are fixation of Carbon dioxide into RuBP

The analysis of Eminems lyrics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

The analysis of Eminems lyrics - Essay Example The essay "The analysis of Eminem’s lyrics" analyzes the reasons that in Eminem's lyrics he talks about taking care or protecting them like they are objects. Eminem was raised in Detroit with a mother who according to him was an alcoholic. He had a daughter, Hailie with his girlfriend, Kim, who later became his wife. These three women affected Eminem’s lyrics immensely. Toward his mother, Eminem is very bitter. On one CD he sings, â€Å"You selfish bitch; I hope you fuckin burn in hell for this shit† in the song Cleaning out My Closet. Eminem cannot prevent his mother’s addiction to prescription pills, so he talks about her using profanities and death wishes. Another example of Eminem’s disrespect for his wife appears on the 8 Mile soundtrack. In his lyrics, Eminem puts Kim in a traditional role as a mother of his child or a piece of property as his wife. Eminem even wrote a song (not playable on the radio stations) about Kim on the Marshall Mathers LP detailing how he would torture and kill her. The last lines were â€Å"NOW BLEED! BITCH BLEED!BLEED! BITCH BLEED! BLEED†. Kim’s offense was to cheat on him. In his album The Eminem Show, Eminem raps, â€Å"But the smartest shit I did was take the bullets outta that gun Cuz I'da killed him; shit I woulda shot Kim and them both†. Eminem is not coming out and saying that he wishes the laws of the middle ages were in effect concerning women, but his songs show that if Kim Mathers had cheated on him a couple of centuries ago, she would have been dead.

Hotel industry Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Hotel industry - Assignment Example In my case, I intend to add value to my hotel service industry by picking my raw foodstuffs from distributors who are recommended by the public health organization in the United States. My hotel service targets all customers, fixing desired prices on the foodstuffs while making quality and service to customers as the main aim as opposed to mincing money from the public. Moreover, the staff employed in my hotel should have adequate training in catering bearing in mind health and safety standards of the organization. However, I do not intend to run the hotel for my entire life. I intend to make it pick and gain popularity within its location then sell it to a new management at a higher price when business hits peak. This, I intend to implement through ample customer relations, providing safe products as well as placing customer preference and quality as my main aim. Service to humanity is service for money.The chart above shows the organization of my hotel service industry. Moreover au dit ought to be done every end of the financial year to assess the employees as well as the milestones achieved by the organization. Any product that aims to be brought to the hotel must be taken through health and quality checks to ensure that safety and health standards are adhered to.Reputable hotels are very successful in both their businesses and expansion. The most challenging task in the hotel industry is the handling of competition which comes about with providing quality services as well as fixing prices that are desirable to the target customers.

Going Green in the Hospitality Industry Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Going Green in the Hospitality Industry - Essay Example As such, the environment and its conservation have become a selling point for even airlines, where green airlines are even getting the bulk of passengers in air travel as can be seen in Continental airlines that has gone a step further to use biofuels. Consequently, hotels and other allied industries have taken competition a notch higher in order to make a kill in terms of revenue as has been seen with the Orchid Mumbai that is eco-certified making it highly competitive as compared to other five star hotels like itself (Ernst and Young 6). This is also because clients and other allied parties demand green programs, as well as their sense of corporate responsibility, where the industry, especially hotels do not intend to harm the environment with waste products. Hotels, as part of the hospitality industry could apply a number of measures that see to it that environmental conservation is enhanced and maintained. With this in mind, attempts at energy conservation are seen as the most si gnificant means through which the industry can go green, which serves both institutions and the environment, from which angle it can be viewed as humans being part of the environment. Hotels have gone green with genius ways of saving on energy both financially and best of all consumption, where their lighting systems consume just a fraction of conventional systems found at home and at non-green hotels. Energy conservations involves energy saving bulbs and other lighting systems consuming minimum energy for best results coupled with other solutions. The other solutions entail bright coloring that allows for large amounts of reflection, which requires lesser lighting than rooms with dark colors. From this perspective, some hotels are using LED (light emitting diodes) lighting, which consumes low power, as can be seen in the case of Econo Lodge hotels in the US ("LED Lighting Helps..."). Going green has also been achieved through tier systems that work as a bundle such as infrared sens ors that monitor brightness and switching lights on and off. The concept saves the industry more than 12 kilowatts of electricity produced and wasted by production and consumption. Other green initiatives in hospitality can be seen in air conditioning as seen in Japanese institutions, where there is a unique system of harvesting snow during winter and storing it up for use during summer, when it is hot. This works by cooling hotels and apartments using Japanese All-Air-Systems (Skogsberg 7). In waste management, the industry has the potential to improve its green imitative due certain aspects that involve recycling, reusing and reducing production of waste. On the production of waste, manufacturers of packaging items and materials are aware that what they produce ends up as waste. As a result, it the responsibility of hotels, travel agencies and other institutions in the hospitality industry to save the environment by choosing wisely and keeping of too much wrap on items. With this in mind, certain institutions have managed to do this by coming up with genius policies such as introduction of the hospitality and food service agreement that serves to ensure that there is not much waste in packaging by reducing, reusing and recycling ("Small Hotel makes..." 2). A

The Impact of Substance Abuse on the Adolescent Population Essay Example for Free

The Impact of Substance Abuse on the Adolescent Population Essay Introduction Understanding the scope of drug use and addiction in the world includes knowing the prevalence among various populations and researching the many health and social consequences. The United States is both the largest producer of drug research in the world and the world’s only â€Å"drug-control superpower.† The simultaneous leadership in social science and world agenda setting is not the result of a symbiotic relationship between American research and policy making.During adolescence, friends and peers become far more influential than before, and intimate dating relationships become primary interests (Laursen Williams, 1997). Along with these important developmental changes, however, come increased risks of pregnancy, sexually transmitted disease, and abuse by and toward dating partners (Leaper Anderson, 1997). As well, alcohol and drug use and abuse enters the picture, which may contribute to the occurrence of the other risk behaviors (Milgram, 1993; National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse, 1999). Although some of these developments are harmless, there is a growing awareness of the importance of education and prevention to increase teens personal safety and responsibility. Not surprisingly, prominent adolescent risk behaviors are alcohol and drug abuse, unsafe sexual behavior, and dating violence-share many of the same contributing risk factors, although to important and differing degrees. These include problems related to the family, such as family conflict and violence, poor relationship attachment, early and persistent behavior problems, as well as peer and academic problems, such as school failure, peer rejection, and exposure to community violence. In addition to the above, teen pregnancy, early sexual intercourse, and risky sexual behaviors are associated with early onset of puberty, truancy, and delinquency (Kilpatrick, Acierno, Saunders, Resnick, Best, 2000). In the absence of compensatory factors, such as education and social competence, these varied risk factors can contribute to or become risk behaviors (e.g., alcohol use is associated with teen pregnancy and violence). Common Elements A common family element found among teens who engage in these high risk behaviors is the amount of time spent without proper adult involvement or supervision (Dishion, Capaldi, Spracklen, Li, 2005). Not surprisingly, children who grow up in caring and supportive homes are more likely to resist risky behaviors, while children who have grown up witnessing or experiencing alcohol abuse or violence in their homes, having poor family structure and insecure attachment-related experiences are more likely to be less resistant to these same risky, unhealthy behaviors. A description of the age, gender, and ethnic identities of youth who engage in high risk behavior is provided by the Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance, which tracks data regarding many health risk behaviors for adolescents in the United States. According to this data, black youth, for example, report significantly higher rates of sexual intercourse before age 13 than do Whites and Hispanics, while White youth report the highest levels of forced sexual intercourse. Black youth also report less alcohol consumption at last sexual intercourse and higher condom use than do White and Hispanic youth. Not surprisingly, males report more alcohol use before the age of 13 than females, across all ethnic groups (YRBSS). However, these data on prevalence of self-reported adolescent risk behaviors is descriptive only, and tells little about the contextual factors contributing to such risk. While looking closer at some of the factors that may contribute to the mentioned risk behaviors, the one can see that alcohol use among teenagers remains prevalent in todays society. A national probability sample of 4,023 adolescents between the ages of 12 and 17 found that 15% of the sample used alcohol, 10% used marijuana, and 2% reported hard drug use in the past year (Kilpatrick et al. 2000). Although some alcohol consumption among adolescents is considered normative, there is great concern for the number of teens who are exhibiting signs of alcohol abuse or dependence with 7% of the above sample meeting diagnostic criteria for alcohol, marijuana, or hard drug abuse or dependence. Trends in alcohol use reported in the Youth Risk Behavior Survey indicate that binge drinking (five or more drinks on one occasion during the 30 days prior to the survey) has shown little variation over the past several years, ranging from 31.3% in 1991 to 33.4% in 1997 to 31.5% in 1999 (Centers for Disease Control, 2000). Binge drinking continues to be a problem among youth and needs to be targeted specifically. Importantly, studies have found that alcohol use influenced the practice or involvement in a number of other high-risk behaviors. Sexual activity, smoking, and drinking and driving were significantly related to heavy drinking. Another study examining trauma experiences among adolescents found that those who reported alcohol abuse or dependence were 6-12 times more likely to have a history of childhood physical abuse, and 18-21 times more likely to have a sexual abuse history (Clark, Lesnick, Hegedus, 2001). The continued increase in alcohol consumption among teenagers is cause for concern, particularly as it relates to and influences other risk factors and behaviors. Teen Addiction, Recovery and Relapse   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   These three (3) aspects are critical elements of this discussion because they are more closely related to reach other than originally recognized.   Teen addiction has often been linked to the risk factors that will be discussed in the later segments of this paper (Kilpatrick et al. 2000).   Teen addiction is often correlated to exposure to risk factors.   The causal link that has been found is that the risk activities that teens are exposed to often lead to drug addiction and dependency.   Alternatively, those that find themselves in drug related problems are often also found to take part in risk activities. The second element, teen recovery is also connected to all of these factors in that the success of recovery treatment depends highly not solely on the teen’s non-exposure to drugs but also with the withdrawal from all of those risk factors such as drinking, smoking and healthier dating relationships.   Finally, this section will also shed light on the relapse rate which has also been found to be closely related to alcohol and smoking problems.   As found in most studies, continued use of non-drug addictive substances also increases the relapse rate especially among teens.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   As previously mentioned, teen addiction is often attributed to many different factors.   The foremost among these factors remain peer pressure, troubled childhood and lack of parental and substitute parental guidance (e.g. teachers).   These are well documented causes of teen drug addiction which will only be briefly discussed.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   While there are theories that suggest it may not be just one single element that promotes teen drug addiction, it cannot be denied that the aforementioned factors when taken together do increase the chances of teen drug addiction.   Given this fact, once these factors are added with the risk factors such as social acceptance which leads to increased sexual activity, drug addiction not only becomes guaranteed but continued substance abuse well into the late teens is also certified. In the book entitled, â€Å"Care of Drug Users in General Practice: a harm reduction approach†, it has been found that addiction to drugs is not always the primary addictive element and that in certain cases the addiction is to the other benefits derived from drug addiction that individuals find more appealing such as social acceptance and increased sexual activity (Phillips 2004).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The issue of recovery, as discussed in â€Å"Care of Drug Users in General Practice: a harm reduction approach† often cites that recovery is based on the same factors that caused the addiction but to a varying extent (Phillips 2004).   This basically means that in order for one to enter voluntarily, which has been found to have to lowest relapse rate, into drug rehabilitation programs, there is a need for the external aid.   The cause which began the substance abuse must also be willing to aid the individual in the rehabilitation stage.   An example of this would be sexually active teenagers who attempt rehabilitation but fail due to one of the partner’s refusal to enter the same program.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Teens are at a very impressionable stage and in order to be able to reach out to them one must be able to reach out to their peers.   This is easier said than done, however, since the clannish nature of most teenagers makes it almost impossible to be able to get on a more comfortable personal level with any of them (Phillips 2004).   Most drug rehabilitation programs have begun implementing peer outreach programs where the former successful teen patients volunteer to help the centers in reaching out to the troubled youth.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Finally, the problem of relapse must also be discussed.   Relapse is often a greater problem than getting the addict to rehabilitation.   The reason for this is that maintaining the dissociation with drugs and the related elements requires constant vigilance without outside intervention (Phillips 2004).   Most of the problems that teen addicts face after rehabilitation lies in breaking away from comfortable and familiar ties who are often still exposed to the drug elements to which the teen seeks to break ties from.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   There is a lot of literature on this matter which suggests that drug rehabilitation programs should equally pay attention to the â€Å"check out† stage of most recovered addicts.   While there is success in getting the addict to quit, for the time being, success can only be measured in its entirety.   In this dangerous and socially important aspect, partial success does not count as a victory (Phillips 2004).   What truly matters is getting the teen to totally isolate himself or herself from any factor which may bring about a relapse.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In order to tackle this problem, it is important to maintain peer programs such as the AA and the like that have constant monitors on their members.   There are programs that have already instituted these types of programs but most have failed due to the lack of commitment by most of its members (Phillips 2004).   Teen drug addiction is not an easy problem to admit as most teens often find themselves in denial of their addiction and take it instead as a growing pain that everyone goes through (Phillips 2004).   Yet, as revealed earlier, the teen drug abuse rates reveal a different story.   Therefore, in order to address the problem of drug relapse, most teenagers must be able to realize that the addiction was not just a part of growing up but rather an experience that is avoidable and must not be repeated. Teen Treatment Systems   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   This section will briefly tackle the issue on treatment systems such as counseling or outpatient services and its effects on the adolescent population whether it is helpful or only helpful when combined.   At the onset, it must be stated that as a part of the rehabilitation system, the issue on counseling and/or outpatient services is critical.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   As previously mentioned in the prior section, many of the treatment systems that have been implemented do not focus solely on counseling alone but also include other treatments such as outpatient services and extracurricular activities (Philips 2004).   Counseling, as discussed in a number of studies, is only effective up to a certain extent.   While generally considered as a more passive approach to treatment, newer and more dynamic systems have also been added to the treatment (Botvin 2005).   It has been found that counseling is only the initial step in teen substance abuse rehabilitation.   It must be complemented by more dynamic systems as teen outreach programs.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The value of an addict for his or her life is greatly increased when seen in the context of aiding the community.   These new treatment systems have been developed specifically to target teens.   The reason for this is that it allows for the effective isolation from the harmful and detrimental substance abuse elements and allows the addict or individual to be â€Å"reintroduced† as a productive member of society and the community (Botvin 2005).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The second step in this process is the outpatient service that is offered.   The problem of relapse is common among teenagers and as such effective outpatient services to monitor the teens is necessary.   The greatest danger comes from not being able to maintain the positive and productive environment for the adolescent.   This is perhaps the single most important step in keeping the teens from relapsing into substance abuse (Botvin 2005). Teen Addiction and Risk Factors As such, it is also relevant to discuss how addiction manifests itself in relation to certain aspects such as risky behavior because certain studies have shown that drug addiction is intensified by these elements as well. Dating Relationships Teens generally begin dating, either singly or in small groups, between 13 and 18 years of age, with a range of variability regarding frequency, level of intimacy, seriousness, and importance of these relationships. An illustration of dating, intimacy, and sexual experiences and expectations is provided by an in-depth survey conducted by the Kaiser Family Foundation and YM Magazine, involving 650 boys and girls ages 13-18 years (Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation and YM Magazine, 1999). They discovered levels or stages of intimacy that developed by age of the youth; that is, intimacy progressed as the youth developed in age chronologically, not as the relationship progressed in length. Most 13-14-year-old teens (72%) reported that it is typical for dating couples their age to kiss, with 45% reporting that French kissing, petting (15%), and intercourse (4%) are expected. Adolescents 15-16 years of age expected an increased level of sexual activity, with 93% reporting kissing, and slightly higher rates of French kissing (71%), petting (48%), and intercourse (28%) as normative. Couples at this age typically spend more time alone together. Older teens (ages 17-18 years) have significantly more sexual experience, with 57% reporting petting to be typical and slightly more than half (52%) reporting intercourse to be typical of their dating relationships. Just as intimacy becomes more involved and prevalent in older teens relationships, so does the significance of the relationship. Although teens continue to value relationships with parents, siblings, other family members, and nonrelated adults, relationships with dating partners begin to gain in importance. Gender differences emerge in how relationships develop in significance and closeness during the adolescent years. A study of the network of relationships among younger adolescents found that dating partners were ranked 6th out of 7 in terms of support received (i.e., companionship, intimacy, instrumental help, affection, enhancement of worth, nurturance of the other, and reliable alliance). By mid-adolescence, dating partners were tied for second place with mothers and, in college, males rated their dating partner as the most supportive person in their network, while females gave equally high ratings to partners, same sex friends, siblings, and mothers (Furman Buhrmester, 2002). A similar study comparing dating and non-dating adolescents found older adolescents and males interacted more frequently with romantic Clinical Issues in Intervention dating partners, whereas younger adolescents and females divided their social interaction time among several relationships (Laursen Williams, 1997). What is not clearly understood, however, is how these relationships emerge in early adolescence, and how these relationships transform over the course of adolescence. Gender differences in expectations and closeness may lead to conflict and tension in dating relationships, if these expectations are not clearly understood or reciprocated. Patterns for more high-risk youth (e.g., those involved in dropout prevention and alternative school programs) stand in contrast to these normative patterns. Of high-risk youth, 35% report being 13 years or younger at first intercourse, 33% were 14-15 years old, and 13% were 16 years or older (OHara et al., 2003). Obviously, youth with other risk behaviors (such as alcohol abuse or school problems) are more likely to also engage in high-risk sexual behavior. Monitoring dating abuse and violence among adolescents is fairly new. Surveys of high school students report 36%-45% of students experience any form of violence in the relationship as a victim or perpetrator (OKeefe Treister, 2003). Recently, a measure of physical abuse in dating relationships has been added to the Youth Risk Behavior Survey. Intentional physical violence, including being hit, slapped, or physically hurt on purpose by a boyfriend or girlfriend, was reported by 8.8% of youth in the 2005 Youth Risk Behavior survey (YRBSS, 2005). A series of focus group studies with adolescent males and females ages 14-19 years regarding teen dating relationships revealed many disturbing attributions regarding harassment and abuse in dating relationships. Factors that caused violence as reported by the teens were grouped into individual, couple, and social levels (Lavoie, Robitaille, Hebert, 2000). Individual factors attributed to the aggressor included jealousy, the boys need for power, and alcohol and drug use. During focus group discussions, youth identified factors attributed to the victim including provocation by the girl, previous experience with violence, a victim personality type (i.e., one who is easily preyed upon), and a strong need for affiliation. Factors attributed to the couple included communication problems and sadomasochism. There was endorsement for consensual violent sex, meaning that a little force during intimacy was considered acceptable as long as both partners agreed. Although consensual, the youth did regard this as sometimes being problematic because partners have agreed to the violence, but may not be sure when one or the other has then crossed the line. Teens in this study frequently attributed blame for violence in the relationship to the victim. Importantly, physical violence in a dating relationship has different ramifications for males and females. While there is a trend to believe that males and females are equally violent, there is evidence that females perpetrate more violence than males out of self-defense. There are also differences in the severity of violence experienced, as well as the impact it has on the victim (Foshee, 2006). A study of high school dating violence revealed that girls experienced significantly more severe physical violence than boys (Jackson, Cram, Seymour, 2000). Females were more likely to be punched and to be forced into sexual activity, whereas males were more likely to be pinched, slapped, scratched, and kicked. The physical effects of the violence were more severe for females, with 48% reporting that it â€Å"hurt a lot† or caused bruises (29%). Males (56%) more frequently reported that it did not hurt at all. Reaction to the worst incident of violence in the relationship also was assessed. Males most frequently reported that they laughed (54%) in reaction to the situation, while females reported a number of other responses: crying (40%), running away (11%), and fighting back (36%); 12% reported that they obeyed their partner. Sexual assault and forced sexual intercourse also occur at an alarming rate during adolescence (9-10% of first sexual intercourse experiences were forced). Males perpetrate more sexual dating violence than females, and females sustain more sexual violence than males (Foshee, 2006). Sexual Activity among Adolescents While it is easy to track female pregnancy rates, adolescent males are typically not researched or surveyed regarding their histories of fathering pregnancies. A study of urban African-American male youth regarding pregnancy history and other health-risk behaviors indicated that 24.2% reported a pregnancy history. These males were 14 times more likely to report three or more sex partners in the last year, more than five times as likely to report a sexually transmitted disease history, and more than three times more likely to test positive for drugs than males without a pregnancy history. Safe sex practices also seem to be of little concern to these males, as they were 2.5 times as likely to be inconsistent or nonusers of condoms during sexual intercourse (Guagliardo, Huang, DAngelo, 2006). Disturbingly, a study of youth in dropout prevention and alternative school programs assessed for risk of HIV/AIDS prevention found that use of alcohol and drugs and age of sexual initiation were significantly associated with a high risk profile ile for AIDS/HIV (OHara et al., 2003). Males (29%) were more likely than females (14%) to use alcohol and drugs before having sex and were more than likely to have had sex with two or more partners (males, 78%; females, 22%). Early onset of sexual intercourse is cause for concern, particularly as it increases the likelihood of increased numbers of sexual partners and condom nonuse during the adolescent. Increased numbers of sexual intercourse partners has been correlated with risk behaviors such as unintended pregnancy, HIV/AIDS, and other sexually transmitted diseases. Connections between dating violence and alcohol use were found to be among the strongest predictors for an increased number of sexual intercourse partners for Black and White adolescent males and females (Valois, Oeltmann, Waller, Hussey, 2003). Younger dating youth who have older partners may be at greater risk of experiencing dating violence. Not including cases where physical force was threatened or used at first sexual intercourse, 34% of male partners of 11-12 year old females were five or more years older; 12% of male partners of 13-15 year old females were five or more years older; and 7% of male dating partners of 16-18 year olds were five years or more older (Leitenberg Saltzman, 2000). Although the disparity in age range between the male and female partners seems to decrease as females get older, such disparity has important prevention implications. Information about onset of sexual intercourse is available, but information is scarce about feelings regarding the experience, planning for the event, and discussion regarding birth control or safe sex practices before intercourse has occurred (Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation and YM Magazine, 1999). Females tend to feel more pressure to participate in some form of sexual activity and are more concerned about what friends, peers, and the dating partner think of them. Motivation for initiation of sexual intercourse has not been significantly examined. Predictors for early initiation of sexual intercourse include a belief that they are more mature than their peers, early physical maturity, a tendency to use hard drugs, and a desire for earlier autonomy from parents (Rosenthal, Smith, de Visser, 1999). Research regarding individual risk factors and risk behaviors has been conducted primarily in isolation. Recently, research into how these many behaviors are related has begun to take place. Making the links between these factors and behaviors may have important consideration when designing prevention programs. Making the Links The links between adolescent risk behaviors described above merit careful investigation. While it is understood that these behaviors do not usually occur in isolation, there seems to be no clear understanding of how they operate together, and what the ramifications might be for adolescent dating relationships. The survey data presented earlier shows that some adolescents begin drinking at an early age, and many begin to experience sexual intercourse at an early age. Undoubtedly, there are serious health ramifications to these issues (i.e., potential for pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, alcohol and other drug dependence, and increased aggression). Typically, researchers have considered these ramifications in the context of the individual, a lot depends on the occurrence of these behaviors in peer and dating relationships, and the possible impact on individuals and relationships. Linking Alcohol and Sexual Activity A report written by the Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse used data from two prominent surveys in the United States: the 1997 Youth Risk Behavior Survey; and the 1995 National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health, regarding adolescent risk behaviors to develop a comprehensive and in-depth analysis of the connections among alcohol, drug use, and all aspects of sexual activity and violence (National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse, 1999). Again, the links among dating violence and alcohol and sex are not explicit. However, significant findings from this report reveal that teens who use alcohol and drugs are more likely to have sexual intercourse, initiate sexual intercourse at an earlier age, have multiple sex partners, and be at greater risk for sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancy. Early onset of drug use and number of years of sexual intercourse has been found to be associated with increased numbers of sex partners. In addition, students with more partners are more likely to be heavier drug users. The Kaiser Family Foundation study found that almost two in ten (17%) teens, aged 13-18, who have had an intimate encounter, admit having done something sexual while under the influence of drugs or alcohol that they otherwise might not have done. One in three (32%) girls, 17-18 years of age, have had this experience. Linking Alcohol and Intimate Violence The links between alcohol use and marital aggression have been documented, but the same attention has not been shown to adolescent dating relationships. Only recently have questions regarding dating violence been added to the Youth Risk Behavior Survey (Centers for Disease Control, 2000). Substance abuse is frequently linked with sexual violence. Alcohol has been named the primary culprit for date rape on college campuses (National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse, 1999). A study of college men and women found that 78% of undergraduate women experienced sexual aggression, and 57% of men reported being sexually aggressive. Dates that included sexual aggression were more likely to include heavy drinking or drug use, in comparison to the last date that did not include sexual aggression. Among high school students, experiencing dating violence has been identified as a salient risk factor for females for using alcohol or street drugs, and increases the odds 20-fold for alcohol and drug use (Wekerle, Hawkins, Wolfe, 2001). There is a move toward establishing a better understanding of the significance and links among adolescent risk behaviors. With this understanding comes a need to develop new prevention programs that deal with these risk behaviors in a broader sense, rather than in isolation. Adolescent Risk Behavior and Drug Prevention Programs Prevention programs developed over the past decade have been targeted specifically at adolescents for a number of risk behaviors: dating violence, alcohol abuse, drug abuse, pregnancy prevention, safe sex programs, and prevention of sexually transmitted diseases, to name a few. Literature reviews and program evaluation studies point to the conclusion that programs may be successful at providing information and delaying onset of the risk activity, but long-term prevention of the focused risk behavior is seldom achieved. Evaluation of prevention programs in all of these areas has been limited due to methodological problems, such as inadequate standardized measures, ambiguity of terms (e.g., defining dating relationships), lack of multiple informants and control groups, lack of trained facilitators, and long-term follow-up issues. Some programs are developed for universal prevention, while others are targeted at groups considered to be at greater risk based on presence of known risk factors. Undoubtedly, good prevention programs are derived from theory, input from youth, and practice. There are several theories that have contributed to the creation of prevention programs for dating violence, substance abuse, and pregnancy or safe sex education. Social learning theory postulates that youth are vulnerable as a result of the social environment in which they are raised. Negative family, peer, and community influences will contribute to risk for adapting to negative behaviors. Problem behavior theory relies on the belief that some youth may have a natural tendency for deviance or nonconformity and, therefore, may be more likely to engage in problem behaviors. Adolescents may engage in alcohol consumption or early onset of sexual intercourse because they perceive it as a means to achieve a goal, that is, peer acceptance, or to cope with boredom, unhappiness, anxiety, or rejection (Botvin Botvin, 2002) Theory and model testing of problem behaviors in a recent study of early adolescents found support for a model that included specific factors related to aggression, drug use, and delinquent behaviors, and a higher order problem behavior factor (Farrell, Kung, White, Valois, 2006). Life-skills training programs that have been developed based on problem behavior theory are built on the philosophy that targeting the underlying determinants (such as personal and social competence skills) will affect the factors that cause the risk behavior. Similarly, social bonding theory links healthy attachments to family and school as factors that protect youth from deviant behavior; unhealthy attachments are regarded as risk factors (Farrell, Kung, White, Valois, 2006). Instead of focusing on preventing something negative from happening to youth, some recent programs emphasize youth involvement and empowerment, which shifts the focus to promoting positive youth development. In this approach, youth are considered as assets and resources rather than problems or â€Å"targets.† Prevention programs, such as the Youth Relationships Program have expanded the role of theory to include youth empowerment as a central theme in educating youth about positive, healthy relationships program and the avoidance of violence and abuse. Several factors have been identified as being essential components of prevention programs among adolescents, regardless of the topic. The location of the program is often debated as to whether schools or other community service agencies are better. In the case of sexuality and education prevention programs, there is no question that these programs should be offered in schools; however, what programs should be taught remain a concern (Kirby Coyle, 1997). Some groups favor teaching abstinence until marriage only, while others favor education regarding contraception and sexuality. Similarly, dating violence prevention programs have been offered in schools and in community service agencies with varying degrees of success. These programs may be most effective when embedded in a declared school context of â€Å"zero tolerance† for any type of school violence. The advantages of school-based programs include access to youth, space, and time, and staffing support. The disadvantages include concerns that truant youth, who may need the program most, are not available in the schools; disclosures of abuse in the classroom may not be handled well in a large classroom situation; a large group may not be a safe place to discuss personal beliefs and attitudes; and learning may be limited to only the school context of the individuals life. These concerns notwithstanding, the main advantage of community-based programs has been the development of community partnerships. Although the advantages may not be inherently evident in the results of the prevention program itself (i.e., preventing something bad is hard to prove), such programs appear to reduce duplication of services, increase cooperation and efficiency among service providers, and help integrate services into the community. In turn, communities that have a â€Å"face†-a reputation for cooperative and active prevention-have significantly reduced the perceived and actual levels of violence, even in the poorest neighborhoods (Sampson Morenoff, 1997). Advocates of prevention programs favor sustained, long-term efforts in education to make prevention successful. Programs should be on-going from kindergarten to the final year of high school, and should be especially intensive just prior to the age of initiation of substance use or similar risk behaviors. Unfortunately, it seems that this does not transfer readily into practice. In the case of sexuality education in Canada, a report by the Council of Ministers of Education indicates that curriculum time in schools available for sexuality education has been reduced as health education becomes combined with physical and career education. Fewer public health nurses in schools also severely reduced the quality and availability of preventive sexual health education services to adolescents (Council of Ministers of Education of Canada, 1999). Pregnancy prevention and sexuality education programs, while deemed extremely important in reducing teen pregnancy rates and incidence of sexually transmitted disease, are critically received by a number of groups and agencies when being implemented in communities. Differing views regarding how to handle this issue conflict with effective program implementation. For example, some religious and moral beliefs dictate that youth should remain abstinent during adolescence, that parents are responsible for protecting their children from negative influences, and that education will positively influence knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs. Programs that focus on abstinence or pregnancy prevention have typically been delivered to females only. While females need to take responsibility for their choices and actions, males also need to be educated about the same issues in order to make responsible choices as well. Males who have unprotected sex are also at risk of becoming fathers and contracting sexually transmitted diseases (Pierre, Shrier, Emans, DuRant, 2006). Substance abuse prevention programs have typically been school-based and education focused (Botvin Botvin, 2002). Evaluations of earlier programs have consistently found them to be ineffective. One school-based intervention was able to show significant reductions in drug use enduring for six years after implementation of the program. The success of this program was attributed to teaching a combination of resistance and social competence skills, the proper implementation of the program, and sufficient length for program with at least two years of booster implementations (Botvin, Schinke, Epstein, Diaz, Borvin, 2005). The Center for Substance Abuse Prevention (Brounstein Zweig, 2000) has identified six prevention strategies that can be used in combination to develop prevention programs that focus on risk and protective factors for substance abuse, including: information dis semination, prevention education, alternatives, problem identification and referral, community-based process, and environmental approaches. The Center for Substance Abuse Prevention has recently completed an analysis of substance abuse prevention programs that have been evaluated. Rigorous statistical criteria for evaluation were adopted, resulting in the definition of eight model programs which have adopted a combination of these prevention strategies, representing a number of age groups, as well as universal, selective, and indicated prevention for children and youth (Brounstein Zweig, 2000). Of all these programs, only one included information regarding sex or health education, and one provided information and skills for violence and gang prevention and conflict resolution. Although these programs were successful in reducing risk factors and increasing protective factors, they did not demonstrate alcohol and drug use prevention. Unfortunately, there are no existing programs that address alcohol and dating violence prevention together. Although some alcohol abuse prevention programs do discuss or deal with aggression, it is usually in the context of community violence not intimate interpersonal violence. A review of prevention programs that focus on teenage sexual risk behavior indicated that they also were narrowly focused to one aspect of this behavior, that is, abstinence only, contraception programs, and HIV/AIDS awareness programs (Kirby Coyle, 2007). It is time to begin linking these risk behaviors together in universal and targeted prevention efforts, focusing on the intimate and personal effects of these risk behaviors on teenage dating relationships. Adolescence provides an opportunity to enter into discussions regarding the impact, consequence, and prevalence of these behaviors and explore the perceived benefits and drawbacks of these risk behaviors. Prevention programs can offer an opportunity for youth and adults to engage in discussions regarding the motivators for initiating these behaviors and relevant information regarding short term effects. Prevention of specific risk behaviors requires community coordination and varied input. Parents, teachers, school officials, health care workers, and community workers need to be part of strategies to prevent risk behaviors. Community organizations and resources have learned to work collaboratively on a number of issues, including violence, alcohol, drug use, and the prevention of pregnancy. Collaboration and coordination helps to reduce costs and improve efficiency as well as build community. The growing research provides evidence that youth may possess a number of concurrent risk factors for any of the behaviors that are outlined in this chapter. There is overlap among the risk factors and behaviors and, therefore, prevention programs need to better consider the clustering of these components and develop programs that will address a number of these issues simultaneously (Saner Ellickson, 2006). However, intervention and prevention programs have been weak in helping youth to manage risk and anticipate risky situations in advance. Because all risks cannot be eliminated, youth need to learn how to manage them. 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Traumas and other life events in adolescents with alcohol use and dependence. Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry,36(12), 1744-1751. Council of Ministers of Education of Canada. (1999). Schools, public health, sexuality and HIV: A status report. Toronto: Author. Dishion, T.J., Capaldi, D., Spracklen, K.M., Li, F. (2005). Peer ecology of male adolescent drug use. Development and Psychopathology, 7, 803-824. Farrell, A.D., Kung, E.M., White, K.S., Valois, R.F. (2006). The structure of selfreported aggression, drug use and delinquent behaviors during early adolescence. Journal of Clinical Child Psychology, 29(2), 282-292. Foshee, V.A. (2006). Gender differences in adolescent dating abuse prevalence, types and injuries. Health Education Research,11(3), 275-286. Furman, W., Buhrmester, D. (1992). Age and sex in perceptions of networks of personal relationships. Child Development, 63, 103-115. Guagliardo, M.F., Huang, Z., DAngelo, L.J. (1999). Fathering Pregnancies: Marking health-risk behaviors in urban adolescents. Journal of Adolescent Health, 24, 10-15. Jackson, S.M., Cram, F., Seymour, F.W. (2000). Violence and sexual coercion in high school students dating relationships. Journal of Family Violence, 15, 23-26. Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation and YM Magazine. (1999). 1998 National Survey of Teens: Teens talk about dating, intimacy, and their sexual experiences. Menlo Park, CA: Kaiser Family Foundation. Kilpatrick, D.G., Acierno, R., Saunders, B., Resnick, H.S., Best, C.L. (2000). Risk factors for adolescent substance abuse and dependence: Data from a national sample. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 68(1), 19-30. Kirby, D., Coyle, K. (2007). School-based programs to reduce sexual risk-taking behavior. Children and Youth Services Review,19(5/6), 415-436. Laursen, B., Williams, V. (1997). Perceptions of interdependence and closeness in family and peer relationships among adolescents with and without romantic partners. New Directions for Child Development, 78, 3-20. Lavoie, F., Robitaille, L., Hebert, M. (2000). Teen dating relationships and aggression. Violence against Women,6(1), 6-36. Leitenberg, H., Saltzman, H. (2000). A statewide survey of age at first intercourse for adolescent females and age of their male partners: Relation to other risk behaviors and statutory rape implications. Archives of Sexual Behavior, 29, 203-215. National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse. (1999). Dangerous liaisons: Substance abuse and sex. New York: Author. OHara, P., Parris, D., Fichtner, R.R., Oster, R. (2003). Influence of alcohol and drug use on AIDS risk behavior among youth in dropout prevention. Journal of Drug Education, 28(2) 159-168. OKeefe, M. (2003). Factors mediating the link between witnessing interparental violence and dating violence. Journal of Family Violence,13(1), 39-57. Pierre, N., Shrier, L.A., Emans, S.J., DuRant, R.H. (2006). Adolescent males involved in pregnancy: Associations of forced sexual contact and risk behaviors. Journal of Adolescent Health,23(6), 364-369. Rosenthal, D.A., Smith, A.M., de Visser, R. (1999). Personal and social factors influencing age at first sexual intercourse. Archives of Sexual Behavior,28(4), 319-333. Saner, H., Ellickson, P. (2006). Concurrent risk factors for adolescent violence. Journal of Adolescent Health, 19, 94-103. Sampson, R.J., Morenoff, J. (1997). Ecological perspectives on the neighborhood context of urban poverty: Past and present. In J. Brooks-Gunn, G.J. Duncan, J.L. Aber (Eds.), Neighborhood poverty: Vol. 2. Policy implications in studying neighborhoods (pp.1-22). New York: Russell Sage Foundation. Valois, R.F., Oeltmann, J.E., Waller, J., Hussey, J.R. (203). Relationship between number of sexual intercourse partners and selected health risk behaviors among public high school adolescents. Journal of Adolescent Health, 25(5), 328-335. Wekerle, C., Hawkins, D.L., Wolfe, D.A. (2001). Adolescent substance use: The contribution of child maltreatment and violence in teen partnerships. Development and Psychopathology, 34, 571-586. YRBSS: Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (2005). Retrieved October 27th from:   http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/ss5505a1.htm

It 210 Week 3 Checkpoint Tax Calculation Essay Example for Free

It 210 Week 3 Checkpoint Tax Calculation Essay NetSalary = GrossSalary – BaseTax – (GrossSalary – BaseSalary * AddlTax) If GrossSalary 0.00 1,500.00 Then BaseTax = 0.00 BaseSalary = 0.00 AddlTax = (Gross Salary – BaseSalary) * 0. 15 End if If GrossSalary 1,500.00 3,000.00 Then BaseTax = 225.00 BaseSalary = 1,500.00 AddlTax = (Gross Salary – BaseSalary) * 0.16 End if If GrossSalary 3,000.00 5,000.00 Then BaseTax = 465.00 BaseSalary = 3,000.00 AddlTax = (Gross Salary – BaseSalary) * 0.18 End if If GrossSalary 5,000.00 8,000.00 Then BaseTax = 825.00 BaseSalary = 5,000.00 AddlTax = (Gross Salary – BaseSalary) * 0.20 End if If GrossSalary 8,000.00 15,000.00 Then BaseTax = 1,425.00 BaseSalary = 8,000.00 AddlTax = (Gross Salary – BaseSalary) * 0.25 End if If GrossSalary 15,000.00 Then BaseTax = 1,425.00 BaseSalary = 8,000.00 AddlTax = (Gross Salary – BaseSalary) * 0..25 End if GrossSalary – BaseTax – (GrossSalary – BaseSalary * AddlTax) End CaclulateNetSalary Module DisplayGrossSalaryBaseTaxAddlTaxNetSalary Module Print â€Å"Employee Gross Pay, Tax and Net Pay Breakdown† Print â€Å"Gross Salary† GrossSalary Print â€Å"Base Tax† BaseTax Print â€Å"Additional Tax† AddlTax Print â€Å"Net Salary† * NetSalary End DisplayGrossSalaryBaseTaxAddlTaxNetSalary Module Test Values Input Expected Output Comments Salary = 0.00 Tax = 0.00 Lowest salary in salary range 1 Salary = -1,000.00 Error Message Out of range condition Salary = 1,000.00 Tax = 150.00 Midrange salary in salary range 1 Salary= 1,499.99 Tax = 225.00 Highest salary in salary range 1 Salary = 1,500.00 Tax = 225.00 Lowest salary in salary range 2 Salary = 2,250.00 Tax = 345.00 Midrange salary in salary range 2 Salary = 2,999.99 Tax = 465.00 Highest salary in salary range 2 Salary = 3,000.00 Tax = 465.00 Lowest salary in salary range 3 Salary = 4,000.00 Tax = 645.00 Midrange salary in salary range 3 Salary = 4,999.99 Tax = 825.00 Highest salary in salary range 3 Salary = 5,000.00 Tax = 825.00 Lowest salary in salary range 4 Salary = 6,500.00 Tax = 1,095.00 Midrange salary in salary range 4 Salary = 7,999.99 Tax = 1,425.00 Highest salary in salary range 4 Salary = 8,000.00 Tax = 1,425.00 Lowest salary in salary range 5 Salary = 11,500.00 Tax = 2,300.00 Midrange salary in salary range 5 Salary = 14,999.99 Tax = 3,175.00 Highest salary in salary range 5 Salary = 15,000.00 Tax = 3,175.00 Salary that exceeds the highest salary in salary range 5 by 0.01 Salary = 100,000.00 Tax = 24,425.00 Salary that exceeds the highest salary in salary range 5

PESTEL analysis of the global coffee industry

PESTEL analysis of the global coffee industry Corporate strategy is the way a company or organization creates values through the configuration and co-ordination of its multi-market activities (Collis, 1997). Coffee is the most widespread drink in the world with approximately half-a-trillion cups consumed every year. There are two fundamental types of coffee: espresso and regular, or non-espresso. Espresso is the variety of coffee available in cafà ©s and restaurants, whilst regular coffee is generally meant for the home. Nearly 70% of the worlds coffee is produced by the Americas of which Brazil contributes 30% to the global production. The coffee industry of the world employs nearly 25 million people while approximately 5 million people work in the coffee industry in Brazil. Brazil has in excess of 3 billion coffee plants. The three major kinds of commercially produced coffee bean are Arabica, Robusta in addition to Liberia. Brazilian Coffee production figures rose by more than 12 million (60kg) bags to an amazing 46 million during 2008 making the country streets ahead of the other two top world coffee producers of Vietnam (19.5 million bags) and Colombia (13 1 million bags). PORTERS FIVE FORCES : Threat of substitution: Other beverages apart from coffee the substitutes are tea, soda, fruit juice, water, beer and other alcoholic drinks, other quickà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ grab foods apart from pastries, muffins, doughnuts, etc. Lowerà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ end or less luxurious coffee places. Places that offer people a place to hang out, chat, relax or even work include tea houses, fast food places, iceà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ cream parlors, sideà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ walk cafes, and bars and pubs. Accordingly when there are so many substitutes available, the threat is high and seems to be increasing by day to day. Threat of new entrants: Some of the more current and ongoing threats of new entrants include fast food chains such as McDonalds, Burger King and Dunkin Donuts. The entry barrier for the coffee industry is relatively moderate. Any large and wellà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ funded company where capital is not a problem could be potential entrants, since they have a strong brand image over the industry. Rivalry: There are many big players in the Brazil retail coffee market and with large no of small scale coffee shops big players have to fight out with small shops across different regions in US. With most of the customers taking coffee to home and provides convenience which is the major factor for them. There is an intense competition among the players to build up their customer base. Bargaining power of suppliers: There is more bargaining power for suppliers since the advancement in technological innovations such as automated coffee machines, latte and espresso machines, etc has made them to bargain over the industry. These changes, has made the supplier power high. Bargaining power of buyers: Buyers do not have the power to bargain in the market, considering Starbucks. The sheer scale of Starbucks business reduces the bargaining power of any single group of buyers. McDonalds who claim to offer premium roast coffee of reasonable quality at a lower price, so buyers need not bargain their needs. PESTEL Political/Legal: High standards relating particularly to coffee producing methods are becoming more important in the industry and may gain political prominence. There is increasing pressure for businesses to trade ethically, that is, socially, environmentally, and economically responsible. This is reflected in the coffee industry by an increased demand and rising market value for sustainable coffees such as certified coffee and fair trade coffee, which guarantees a fair price to producers. The fair trade market which is now worth  £100 million, is growing with developments such as Tescos launch of their own Fair trade range. Fair trade is also a means by which the coffee shop industry can differentiate their products and gain a socially responsible reputation; Starbucks customers now have the option to buy fair trade coffee. Oxfam have claimed there is a niche in the coffee shop market and have responded by launching their own brand of Fair trade coffee Progresso which is sold on already established premises such as bookstores. Economical: The impact of coffee on Brazilian economy was much stronger. The greater difficulty of coffee production and trade established important sectorial linkeages within the Brazilian economy. Coffee was the foundation of the economy, accounting for 63% of the countrys exports. Brazilian economy went through periods of growth but also difficulties and increasing trends towards coffee overproduction. The economic performances and development prospects of many developing countries are largely dependent on commodity issues. (Photius.com, 2004) Social: The coffee market must adapt to a change in consumer attitudes or else it may be threatened by health and lifestyle issues. In 2003 the hot drinks market declined by an estimated 2.3%. Consumers, especially young people, are becoming more health conscious which makes coffee a less attractive choice; the increasing number of alternatives available such as health and energy drinks are becoming competitors in the coffee industry. Research carried out by Mintel shows that there is an increased diversification of tea, with a trend towards premium and herbal teas. The coffee industry are responded to this change in attitude by provision of de-caf drinks, options such as soy milk, and alternative drinks such as freshly squeezed fruit juices, chai lattes and herbal teas. Technological: Consumers are less inclined to buy coffees and teas in supermarkets due to the wide variety of coffees that are available in coffee shops today. Hi-tech equipment and premium ingredients are now easily accessible and are used to make a variety of hot and cold beverages that are sold in coffee shops; from cappucinos to the ice blended coffees. As a result consumers are becoming more knowledgeable about the ranges of specialised fresh coffees and premium teas that are available, and their tastes are changing to accompany them. Environmental: The environmental impact is almost always positive and it is important that coffee production and processing should be taken into account for environmental needs to make sure optimal physical sustainability. Even more necessary is that the economic environment should be such as to encourage stability and reasonable living standards for the populations involved with coffee and to make sure the sufficient care should be given to make sure the maintenance of the quality. (Change the environment.) http://www.ico.org/sustainable_coffee.asp STRUCTURAL DRIVERS OF CHANGE: Product Innovation: Product innovation is a driving force that has allowed the coffee industry to grow. Coffee drinks were developed as an anytime coffee drink. Such drinks are Espressos, Cappuccinos, Frappaccinos, Lattes, and Mochas. Whether a consumer likes it hot or cold is no difference now; iced coffee is for those that do not feel like a hot cup. Black, White, Irish, Turkish and Americano are also other types of coffee to choose from. Flavored coffee is a pillar innovation to this product category allowing different consumers taste buds to run wild. Chocolate covered coffee beans are another innovation to the coffee industry. This industry growth has also allowed companies the opportunity to promote to different consumer markets. Young and old purchasers, people that like hot or cold coffee, and those that like a coffee drink in the morning or evening are all targeted now that the product lines have broadened the scope of the industry. Product innovation has helped consumers differentiation issues, along with allowing them to drink it anytime of day they need an extra tasty boost of energy. Pricing: Prices of coffee are relatively inelastic, with consumers becoming more aware of the quality of their coffee, where it is derived from, and the atmosphere in the branded coffee shops. As a result consumers will regard a high priced quality branded product as good value; more than two-thirds (70%) of coffee drinkers will pay more for a good cup of coffee. This was evident when Coffee Nation increased sales by moving from a cheap instant coffee to an espresso coffee with improved packaging. Consumers life style: Consumers lifestyle is the other driving force that ties in with the customer base and usage. Society is changing, with the new generations being a huge influence. Parents, a huge factor in the lifestyle, attitudes, and opinions of their children, drink coffee and are, thus, promoting coffee to the offspring. These young persons are looking for caffeine to keep them going through their increasingly busy days. At age 13, who knew that coffee was needed to add to their ever-so hyper lives? Coffee is established as a drink older people consume. Young people are always aspiring to be older than they are, so coffee is marketed in a different way to the younger generations as specialty coffee and gourmet beverages. Establishing loyalty early while coffee drinkers are young will ensure a prospective future for this industry. http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/05_41/b3954201.htm Industry life cycle model: Introduction stage: In the introduction stage the profit will be low and the cost will be very much expensive. The market growth starts with the introduction stage with low competition and high prices and the demand will be comparatively low. Growth stage: Profits start with the growth in the sales. Varieties of coffee with added flavors being focused during growth stage to get the brand image, value and growing market share. Maturity stage: During maturity stage the profit of the industry increases and the demand also increases. Competition will be very high and customer satisfaction will increase. Saturation takes place due to brand value. Decline stage: It is very difficult to survive in the market if the industry wont be innovative and introduce new products. By analyzing the life cycle model we can implicate that the coffee industry should come up with new innovative product. The coffee industry lies between the maturity stage and decline stage. Coffee has some advantages in health regards which decreases the diabetes and makes brain alert. Coffee consumers due to raising health concerns they can go for alternatives such as green tea which is good for health more than coffee. Therefore I conclude coffee industry will lies between the maturity and decline stage and it may decline if there is any serious health issues occurs around the world. Scenarios Substitute product: Energy drinks may all together substitute the coffee in future. The countries like china and India being the worlds largest producers of tea. They can come up with new innovative products and it will be created in the retail industry. Considering the health concerns people may prefer green tea than coffee. The Chinese have known about the medicinal benefits of green tea from ancient times. Today scientific research in Asia and in West is providing hard evidence for the health benefits long associated with drinking green tea. There is also a research representing that drinking green tea reduces high cholesterol, cancer, impaired immune function. http://chinesefood.about.com/library/weekly/aa011400a.htm Climate change: Climate change is just one of numerous factors that may affect global coffee production. The international coffee organization considers it one of the most important ones. Temperature and rainfall conditions are the two main drivers when its come to yield, i.e. production. As temperature increases coffee ripens more quickly leading to a fall in inherent quality. According to Brazil Rising temperatures suggest coffee production will become viable in areas formerly considered too prone to frosts. Meteorological agencies report temperatures consistently above the historical average since the 1990s. However, too high temperatures will reduce the overall acreage with climatic potential for coffee production. www.thecoffeeguide.org Demand for quality: Since the industry has already passed the maturity stage the players were try to increase the quality by analyzing their brewing systems, and by trying to bring different flavours in the coffee. Following the recommendations of the committee, the international coffee council adopted resolution in February 2002 to implement the coffee quality program. The CQP is designed to improve the balance supply and demand of coffee by stimulating demand through the provision of the better overall standard of quality to the market. http://www.ico.org/improving_quality.asp

The Demise of Dick and Nicole in Tender is the Night :: Tender is the Night Essays

The Demise of Dick and Nicole in Tender is the Night      Ã‚     When referring to the demise of Dick in Fitzgerald's Tender is the Night, I think it is impossible that we not consider the demise of Dick and Nicole as a couple. They begin the book as a unit rather like a Chinese dragon with Dick at the head and Nicole following behind, both covered by the decorative cloak of the appearances they maintained. There are several transitions that they go through that upset the balance that allowed them to maintain a functioning marriage. I believe that while there were several factors impacting their relationship, it is the increasing independence and strength of Nicole that ultimately ends the marriage, and severs the tie that allows Dick to maintain his identity.    In Italy, after he begins his affair with Rosemary, Dick is disillusioned with her. He finds that Rosemary belongs to other people. In his disillusionment, his thoughts turn to Nicole, and how she is still "his girl - too often he was sick at heart about her, yet she was his girl" (213). Rosemary is no longer his possession solely and this cracks his surface. He returns to his love for Nicole like a guard, because he is weak without it. He refers to it as "an obscuring dye" (217). He is Nicole, and Nicole is he, and at this point the line between them has been blurred to bring them together. Dick does not realize that as much as he believes Nicole depends on him, he is dependent on her. He depends on her neediness to define him. Dick knows, however, that Nicole is important to him and that the thought "that she should die, sink into mental darkness, love another man, made him physically sick"(217). Not only is this excellent foreshadowing on Fitzgerald's part, but it gives us a measu re just how dependent Dick is. Physical illness is uncontrollable. If even the thought makes causes him to have psychosomatic symptoms, it is imaginable what the actuality would bring. Dick needs Nicole badly, more so than ever at this point.    Nicole on the other hand begins to become stronger within herself at this point. Nicole acts on her own to go to her father when she believes he is dying. Franz says to her "I must first talk on the phone to Dick" (250).

Harry S Truman-The Early Years :: essays research papers

Discuss Truman’s early life, including early business, his army service and his political life up through his career in the Senate. Harry S. Truman was born on May 8, 1884, in Lamar, MO. He was the son of John Anderson and Martha Ellen Young Truman. A family compromise between grandfathers middle names, Shipp and Solomon resulted giving him only the middle initial S. Sometimes he used a period (.), sometimes he didn’t. In his early childhood, he moved yearly from farm to farm. In 1890 the family moved to Independence, MO where they remained until 1902. After graduating from High School, Truman worked at several odd jobs until landing a position as a clerk at The Union National Bank. Eventually in 1906, Truman moved back to his grandmother’s farm with his parents and took over running the family farm. Truman had an interest in a zinc and lead mine in Oklahoma—the venture failed with a loss of $2,000. He also invested in oil leases in Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas. Truman and two partners had a well drilled on property in Eureka, Kansas, but Truman gave it up when he joined the Army. Had he stayed back and run the drilling company, he probably would have become a millionaire. Truman took an interest in the Masons and was appointed presiding overseer of a Masonic Lodge and was later elected the lodge Grand Master in 1940. Harry Truman met Elizabeth Virginia (Bess) Wallace in Sunday school when they were both very young, but went through school, graduating together. The two were friendly all through school, although their friendship lapsed when Truman was living and working in Kansas City. When a plate had to be returned to Mrs. Wallace, Bess’ mother, Truman returned the plate and started courting Bess. By early 1917 they were engaged. When the US entered WWII, Truman was sent to Oklahoma as part of the National Guard. He and an advance contingent of the 129th Field Artillery Regiment sailed for France aboard the ‘George Washington.’ Shortly after arriving, Truman was promoted to the rank of Captain and was given command of Battery â€Å"D†, the most unruly group in the regiment. Truman was forthright with the men and it was later recounted that the men ‘idolized’ their captain, referring to him as â€Å"Captain Harry† for the rest of their lives. After the war, Truman and an Army buddy, Ed Jacobson, opened a haberdashery—the shop failed after a few years.

Are sports stars grossly overpaid? :: essays research papers

Sport has always entertained and influenced our lives. It creates dreams for children and goals for adults. However, many fans are oblivious to the millions they pocket each year. It is without doubt that our sports stars are grossly overpaid. Their annual earnings exceed those we make in a lifetime, even when compared to highly qualified professions. Despite the money factor, we sometimes question the values that are emphasized. Sports stars earn substantial incomes compared to an average Australian worker. The official benchmark of average Australian earnings is just above AUS$50,000. However, compared to Layton Hewitt, who receives millions in endorsements and prize money each year, this figure is diminutive. Another example is Venus Williams, 20, is the highest-paid woman athlete in the world. She has a contract with sportswear manufacturer Reebok International Inc. that pays her $40 million over five years. This may seem as a step forward for womankind but others view it as a business deal for more money than one will ever need. The disparity between hard working citizens and sporting legends leads us to question their contribution to society. Many ‘heroes’ are created and mostly because of sporting prowess. Yet, there are some things that are more significant that Olympic glory, contract negotiations and the score of the game. Professions that benefit mankind do not receive nearly as much attention or money but remain essential to society. Through a different perspective, it is becomes obvious that doctors and teachers are in fact underpaid. People who can hit or kick a ball are idolised while others who save lives struggle to gain recognition. What values are we teaching? Or more importantly, not teaching? Sports stars exhibit their talent through winning and rank. However, through success many values are taught. Values such as personal responsibility, integrity and respect for one’s self and others are replaced with greed, selfishness and ‘I win-you lose’ mentality. It is sad to think that sport and brilliant sport stars will become emblems of greed and selfishness.