Thursday, December 26, 2019

Dr. Pratt s Theory Of Multicultural Affairs And...

Dr. Charleyse Pratt serves as the assistant vice president of multicultural affairs and engagement of Cleveland state university. In this role her primary responsibilities include coordinating Learning Communities Programs and Partnerships at Cleveland State as well as directing initiatives for the Cleveland Transfer Connection. The transfer connection partnership is with Cuyahoga county Community College’s where students are able to begin associate or undergraduate studies to earn a degree and then transfer to Cleveland State to complete the four-year baccalaureate degree. The Cleveland Transfer Connection (CTC) at Tri-C and Cleveland State University is a Learning Communities program unique to Cleveland because it provides services from two institutions and offers two degrees (an Associate’s and a Bachelor’s) in one community of students. Dr Pratt’s driving philosophy is to create opportunities while disarming challenges for students who have a desire t o gain an education but now need the preparation to be successful in a classroom. Her approach is student-centered support, leadership training and resource management to better navigate the academic journey toward graduation. In the past Dr. Pratt served Cleveland State University as president of the Black Faculty and Staff organization for the 2012-2014 academic school years. She participates annually as a member of the President’s Advisory Committee on the Role and Status of Women and the University’s Retention andShow MoreRelatedStephen P. Robbins Timothy A. Judge (2011) Organizational Behaviour 15th Edition New Jersey: Prentice Hall393164 Words   |  1573 Pages Organizational Behavior This page intentionally left blank Organizational Behavior EDITION 15 Stephen P. Robbins —San Diego State University Timothy A. Judge —University of Notre Dame i3iEi35Bj! Boston Columbus Indianapolis New York San Francisco Upper Saddle River Amsterdam Cape Town Dubai London Madrid Milan Munich Paris Montreal Toronto Delhi Mexico City Sao Paulo Sydney Hong Kong Seoul Singapore Taipei Tokyo Editorial Director: Sally Yagan Director of Editorial Services:Read MoreDeveloping Management Skills404131 Words   |  1617 Pagesbuilt-in pretests and posttests, focus on what you need to learn and to review in order to succeed. Visit www.mymanagementlab.com to learn more. DEVELOPING MANAGEMENT SKILLS EIGHTH EDITION David A. Whetten BRIGHAM YOUNG UNIVERSITY Kim S. Cameron UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN Prentice Hall Boston Columbus Indianapolis New York San Francisco Upper Saddle River Amsterdam Cape Town Dubai London Madrid Milan Munich Paris Montreal Toronto Delhi Mexico City Sao Paulo Sydney Hong Kong Seoul Singapore

Tuesday, December 17, 2019

The Monsters Of Miami. - 1700 Words

Monsters Of Miami I have always found it fascinating how creatures of certain species can blend into their environments as if they were apart of it. Some do it to protect themselves and others, the predators of the food chain, do it pick off unaware victims. They prey on the weak and the foolish using their cryptic camouflage. It is hard to spot them unless you are one of them and I can see them all. There is something about the Miami heat that you come to accommodate to. The food and culture is so alive and active, all through the day and night. People dance and sing to the rhythmic Cuban Jazz. Tonight I will not be participating in the local festivities though. This night is a special night. I am hunting. My sights have been set on†¦show more content†¦A little research and some discreet tailing led me to his hideout. Manuel was a younger guy, no wife or kids. Not really any family at all so it seemed. That is the case often with my kind though. We often find ourselves isolated from the world. I have seen how he operates. First he waits his prey out. Then he follows them until they are alone. To prevent from startling the target, he uses his badge to make the person settle down. His weapon of choice is a knife. He goes to place them under arrest and claims back up is on the way. As soon as their back is turned to him, with one quick movement in which he has perfected h e slits the jugular vein. Although he is quick and clean he has one flaw that I have noticed. No matter who the victim is, he always takes the heart†¦ I am carrying my bags up the garage. Level by level, the higher up it seems to be, the quieter it gets. Miami city this time of night can be a beautiful thing. The sounds of distant cars and loud drunken conversation. Drums beating and maracas shaking. Even in the night time the city s veins are pumping with the blood of human life. Soon I am on the top level. After scoping out the place I observe something peculiar. There are four cars lined up one by one. Very nice black SUVs, side by side. Those must be Jorge’s. Yet once I scan the area again, I spot a little grey car. #%@! He was not supposed to be here yet. I was supposed to have time! What did IShow MoreRelatedThe Mind of Monsters1390 Words   |  6 PagesMorgan. Prado was a Miami cop who started with smaller crime and worked his way up to becoming a serial killer. †Prosecutor David Waksman told the Miami Herald: He was very cold. He was doing robberies and went home and slept like a baby. He was proud of what he did.† (International, 2012) Real life serial killers do not have any empathy. They kill their victims and then return to their â€Å"normal† lives. Nothing about it phases them but the question is why do these monsters kill? In this paper IRead More All Drugs Should be Legal for Personal Use Essay946 Words   |  4 PagesAll Drugs Should be Legal for Personal Use The war on drugs is costing us over 100 billion dollars to fight each year, and we’re only fighting a monster which we are making bigger with each punch. It’s not drugs, but drug laws themselves that have created this monster. Drug use is part of human nature, but the unimaginable wealth involved leads to the corruption of the police, judges, and elected officials. There is no reason to have the government regulating what goes into an individual’sRead MorePsychoanalyzing Victor Frankenstein Essay example1619 Words   |  7 Pagesbe seen as Shelley placing a type of Oedipus complex in his career pursuits. This led Victor to creating the monster to have someone he could be with. After working for 2 years, Victor finished his creation and said, â€Å"Now that I had finished, the beauty of the dream vanished, and breathless horror and disgust filled my heart† (Shelley 57). Freud would tell us that he was creating the monster solely for the purpose of being able to create his mother again and never lose her, but either way, somewhereRead More Jim Morrison Essay examples1441 Words   |  6 Pagesintended to harm another soul on his downward spiral through life. He would often saturate his mind wi th liquor, but consciously close the flood gates just as he was to plummet from the edge of sanity. The same quot;loud-mouthed, insane, drug-induced monsterquot; who once sang with a straight face of killing his father and having sexual intercourse with his mother would ink words of sensitivity and sentiment, as well. The series of love songs dedicated to his longtime girlfriend and soul mate, PamelaRead MoreEssay on Dexter: The Dark Passenger1752 Words   |  8 Pageswithout being under someone’s radar. Dexter’s character arch is symbolic of the human struggle to move from the primitive monster to the noble and compassionate messiah. The Dexter T.V. show is about a blood splatter pattern analyst for Miami Metro Police Department who also accompany of an undisclosed serial killer. Hunting down criminals who slip past the Miami Metro Police Department. The person Dexter is quite different from a â€Å"normal† person’s life. He is very intellig ent person;Read MoreIs Technology a Boost to Life or an Obstacle? Essay examples1352 Words   |  6 Pages Heller, Peter B. Frankenstein’s Monster: The Downsides of Technology. Manhattan (2012). Academic OneFile. Miami Dade College. Web. 3 Apr. 2014. John Nworie and Noela Haughton. The Unintended Consequences of the Application of Mason, John Edwin. Technology and its consequences. Technology Studies 9.4 (2010). Print. Scott A. Peterson, Tun Aye, and Padao Yang Wheeler. â€Å"Internet Use and Romantic Relationships Among†. (2013): (47-72). Academy OneFile. Miami Dade Collge. Web. 3 Apr. 2014. TechnologyRead MoreThe Rights Of American Citizens1217 Words   |  5 Pagesconditions, but it has produced considerable amount of rancor among adults who identify as intersex†. Hermaphroditism, an older word that can still be found in medical writings, is vague, degrading, and melodramatic, constructing mythic images of monsters and freaks into the minds of modern day society. Intersex people would most likely be enraged at such vulgar propaganda. It belittles them as human beings and causes embarrassment to them throughout their social lives. As a result there have beenRead MoreLinkedin. Com : Website Analysis772 Words   |  4 Pagessearch for positions of that source. Recruiters post their job posting on the site and due to the SEO when a prospective candidate Google’s a position within that field the company will be the first one on the list. Such as Human Resource Assistant in Miami, when investing in SEO, the company will be first on the list. Lastly, metrics that are useful in measuring success is a difficult question to answer due to every business being unique to their metrics. Five key elements an employer should take intoRead MoreThe Machinery Behind The Magic At Walt Disney World 1323 Words   |  6 PagesIrma. Life’s storms blow strong. Even after monsters like Harvey and Irma, the water recedes, the power returns, and the roads are cleared. From impact to aftermath to recovery, Kappa offers the safety of sisterhood in times of crisis. In the end, Kappa can only be a better way to stumble up the back steps and walk gracefully out the front door— even if you’re trudging through thigh-high water. —Kristin Sangid, Editor Pinned When Olga Byrne Fryer, Miami (Ohio), moved into an assisted living apartmentRead MoreThe Prowess Of The Rock Of Hollywood1954 Words   |  8 Pageswere the weakest of mind and I used my powerful eyebrow of doom to wear them down. Allow me to tell you about my eyebrow. Yes, I have the biceps and the abs, but my eyebrow is my ultimate power. I am able to use this eyebrow to defeat any of the monsters and beasts that comes my way. My posse of partners knows that the eyebrow is the one true defeater of men. In my earliest days, The Nation of Dominion helped me to hone my skills and we faced the triple threats of men who came at us on foot, on the

Monday, December 9, 2019

Application of Linear Algebra in Solving Real Life Problem

Question: Discuss about theApplication of Linear Algebra in Solving Real Life Problem. Answer: Introduction Linear algebra has a wide variety of applications in solving real-life problems such as Image compression, Markov chains, Estimating page relevance for search engines, Computer graphics, Machine learning, Least squares fitting in statistics, and linear programming. This paper examines how linear algebra can be applied to solve a real problem in the production setup of a factory. The particular problem solved in this paper involves the determination of linear programming constraints and variables by the use of linear algebra. In order to solve the linear programming problems, linear algebra is used to formulate the various variables and constraints with the view of simplifying the word problem into mathematical representation that is easy to solve. Application of Linear Programming in the Industry Linear programming can be employed by the personnel management to work out the problems related to employee recruitment, training, selection, and deployment. The concept helps in determining the minimum number of workers that can work in a shift to ensure the production schedule is met within the stipulated time (Anieting, 2013). In addition, linear programming can assist in the management of an inventory in a factory in relation to the finished products and the raw materials. Linear programming thus, helps in determining the minimum cost of inventory in relation to the constraints of space and cost. In the current problem, linear programming is used in solving a blending problem in the process of production. Blending involves the mixing of different raw materials in a ratio that minimises the cost of production and maximises the revenue or profit. In this particular problem, linear algebra is employed in the formulation of the various variables and constraints to help in simplifying the problem by converting it into a mathematical representation that is easy to solve by assigning letters to the unknown variables. The variables are then converted into linear inequalities that can easily be solved using graphical method. Detailed Mathematical Description of the Problem Description of the Problem This is a real life problem that majorly affect producers in working out the best mix in coming up with a blend of a product. In this problem, a producer of candies intends to produce chocolate coated with either cherries or mints. The decision to come up with the best blend that minimises the production cost and maximises the revenue depend on the cost of the individual components and the most probable mixing ratio that takes care of the cost of the raw materials. In order to solve the problem, variables must be established from the constraints provided by the producer. Statement of the Problem A toffee producing company has 130 kilograms of chocolate coated with cherries and 170 kilograms of chocolate coated with mints in to distribute. The company sells these products in the form of two separate mixtures. The first mixture is intended to contain half mints and half cherries by mass and is intended to be sold at $2 per kilogram. The second mixture is intended to contain two thirds of mints and a third of cherries by mass and is intended to be sold at $1.25 per kilogram. Determine the mass of each mixture that the company should sell maximise their profit. Discussion of the use of the Mathematical Analysis in Solving the Problem In order to simplify the problem, letters will be used to represent the variables. The variables will then be used to formulate linear algebraic equations. A dependent variable will then be established to formulate a linear programming equation that will optimise the variables to maximise sales. The constraints and variables will be related to one another using linear inequalities. Once the problem has been reduced into a mathematical representation, graphical method will be used to optimise the value of the objective equation. In the graphical method, coordinates arising from the linear inequalities derived will be plotted on a Cartesian plane and the maximum value of the objective function will determine the solution to the linear inequalities formulated. Formulation of the Constraints and Variables This problem requires the knowledge of linear algebra to come up with its solution. Linear algebra combines linear functions and vectors to solve complicated problems (Wilkinson, Reinsch, Bauer, 2013). To simplify the problem, Let A represent the blend of half cherries and half mints. Let B represent the blend of a third of cherries and two thirds of mints. Letxbe the number of kilograms of A to be manufactured Let y be the number of kilograms of B to be manufactured Let the he profit function be represented as Z = 2x + 1.25 y Since each kilogram of A contains half kilograms of cherries and each kilogram of B contains a third kilogram of cherries, the total number of kilograms of cherries used in both blend is represented as 1/2 x + 1/3 y In a similar manner, the total number of kilograms of mints used in both blend is: 1/2 x + 2/3 y Therefore, since the company can utilise at most 130 kilograms of cherries and 170 kilograms of mints, the other constraints can be formulated as: 1/2 x + 1/3 y 130 1/2 x + 2/3 y170 In addition, we there should be other basic constraints as follows; x 0 y 0 For that reason, the problem can be formulated as indicated below so solve for x and y that maximise the profit using the subject Z = 2x + 1.25 y 1/2 x + 1/3 y 130 1/2 x + 2/3 y170 x 0 y 0 Using Linear Programming to Solve the Problem In order to solve the problem, the technique of linear programming is used. Step 1: We begin by indicating the feasible region of the problem and locating the resultant extreme points: Vertex Lines Through Vertex Value of Objective (180,120) 1/2x +1/3y = 130; 1/2x + 2/3y = 170 510 (260,0) 1/2x + 1/3y = 130; y = 0 520 Maximum (0,255) 1/2x + 2/3y = 170; x = 0 318.75 (0,0) x = 0; y = 0 0 The four points in the table will be plotted on a Cartesian plane to find out where the value of z is a maximum. The plotting is done in the next section followed by an explanation of the solution. Graphical Representation of the Solution to the Problem The coordinates above can be plotted on a Cartesian plane to come up with the probable maximum value of Z. The graph below shows the solution of the linear programming problem. Figure 1 A graphical solution of the Linear Programming problem Once the graph is plotted and the values obtained, the values of the objective function that gives the maximum value of the variables are established. From the graph, the highest value of z is 520 and this corresponds to the point (260, 0). This point gives the optimal solution to the problem. Therefore, the manufacturer of the toffee is likely to maximise his profits of $520 when he manufactures 260 kilograms of option A and 0 kilograms of option B. Since each kilogram of option A contains half kilograms of cherries and each kilogram of B contains a third kilogram of cherries, the manufacturer maximises profit by selling half kilograms of cherries. The implication of this solution is that for the manufacturer to maximise his revenue, he should not sell or produces option B of the candies since it will not fetch any profit. This means the company may is likely to run at a loss should it venture into this option. Conclusion In conclusion, linear algebra has a number of applications in real life including Image compression, Markov chains, Estimating page relevance for search engines, Computer graphics, Machine learning, Least squares fitting in statistics, and linear programming. The particular problem solved in the paper demonstrates how linear algebra can be used to solve problems related to linear programming. In the industry, linear programming thus, helps in determining the minimum cost of inventory in relation to the constraints of space and cost. It can also be employed in determining the minimum number of workers that can work in a shift to ensure the production schedule is met within the stipulated time. In addition, to solve the problems related to employee recruitment, training, selection, and deployment, the concept of linear programming becomes important for the personnel management. In order to solve all these problems, linear algebra is used to formulate the various variables and constrain ts with the view of simplifying the word problem into mathematical representation that is easy to solve. References Nahmias, S., Cheng, Y. (2009).Production and operations analysis(Vol. 6). New York: McGraw-Hill. A.E. Anieting, A. (2013). Application of Linear Programming Technique in the Determination of Optimum Production Capacity.IOSR Journal Of Mathematics,5(6), 62-65. https://dx.doi.org/10.9790/5728-0566265 Wilkinson, J., Reinsch, C., Bauer, F. (2013).Linear algebra(2nd ed.). Berlin: Springer-Verlag.

Monday, December 2, 2019

Privacy Inthe 21st Century free essay sample

Privacy is the ability of a person to control the availability of information about and exposure of him or her; it is an individual’s or group’s right to have freedom from unauthorized intrusions (Hacker, 2013). With so many social and media communication outlets, does privacy actually exist in the 21st century? Does the government have the right to dictate what is private or what is public? As Americans in the 21st century, living amidst Facebook, Twitter, internet technology, satellite surveillance, GPS tracking and chips, the lack of privacy regarding the ability to provide acceptable and appropriate protection to individual identity and personal information have risen. Despite advancements in current security configuration, users of these products are still not receiving the privacy they deserve. Some views state that privacy is a right guaranteed to citizens by the United States Privacy Act of 1974, limiting the use of personal data by Federal agencies. We will write a custom essay sample on Privacy Inthe 21st Century or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Education is a solution to the online social networkers and the dangers behind sharing our personal information with the public. According to Carolan (2012), Americans’ expectations of privacy in the 21st century is to be treated fairly under the right to privacy law; this law is made to protect their personal information such as social security numbers, credit card information, and medical information. Therefore, according the Fourth Amendment, Americans have the right to be protected under the United States Constitution (Zdziarski, 2013). Nonetheless, individuals find themselves in a society where the internet and online communication is taking over how they do business, privacy rights and communication, bringing into question their Fourth Amendment right to protect their privacy. Consequently, individuals have hopes that their rights will be protected under the Fourth Amendment in a day and time where smart phones and social networking are controlling the waves of communication and how Americans conduct day-to-day business (Carolan, 2012). In today’s society of advanced technology, I Phones, tablets, insta-gram, social media, and online networking individuals have become almost totally dependent on these advanced communication technologies. They are constantly plugged-in for the duration of their day, to the point where doctors have come to term the behavior: nomophobia, the anxiety one feels when they do not have access to their cellular telephone; technoholism, an addiction to surfing the internet; and mousewrist, repetitive strain injury caused by excessive use of a computer mouse (Rauhofer, 2008). This drastic change in how individuals communicate with one another has allowed others to have immediate access to vast amounts of personal information about an individual, their activities, opinions and habits which are being generated and stored in the databases for the purposes of selling, distributing and advertising. Database companies provide services to various organizations and companies in hopes of retrieving personal information about the cliental without their approval or knowledge, which is a direct violation of their right to privacy (Rauhofer, 2008). There are several invasions of privacy and communication such as email addresses and information, global positioning satellites (GPS), and loyalty cards. Nonetheless, there are laws in place to combat the invasion of privacy such as the health information portability accountability act (HIPPA). In today’s society email is a fast and convenient way to communicate on the go. There is email at work, on mobile devices and in the home. In an article written by Samoriski And, (1996), questions are still being raised on whether or not the Electronic Communication Privacy Act of 1986 covers true privacy. Gaps are still present in the current Electronic Communication Privacy Act (ECPA), therefore leaving room for abusive electronic surveillance and monitoring, email and cell phone interception. Therefore, technology is creating new and unforeseen boundaries in the laws of privacy. Public and private privacy is almost nonexistent as it relates to online communication or transactions, and what little is available is being destroyed. For example, the IRS has recently ome under fire for spying on Americans’ email under the guise that using email surrenders one’s expectation of privacy. Emails were not originally designed to be shared or hacked into by individuals that were not authorized to send or receive the particular email; they are private. Nonetheless, it has been known that unauthorized users have invaded personal privacy laws and retrieved individual’s emails and information concerning their private life. Simply because email exists in a public environment does not invalidate one’s expectation of privacy (Zdziarski, 2013). Laws have been established to protect the freedom of speech and print it does not specifically define the domain in which electronic communication occurs, which includes computers, telecommunication, software, data, and electronic networks (Samoriski And, 1996). As technology is transformed, the advancement in options for preventing a person from getting lost and wandering without supervision has assisted care providers in assuring their safety. Medical devices have made it possible for long-term care residents to be easily located. Medical technology has created a device that helps protect Alzheimer’s patients from wandering from the facility without medical personnel. This device is commonly called wanderguard; it will sound an alarm and notify staff that a patient is near the door or has left the building. This is another unique system and advancement in technology that stores an individual’s personal information (N. A, Wandering, 2007). Additionally, the automotive industry has used technology to create a device that allows car owners to simply unlock and lock their car doors when approaching or standing next to the vehicle. The theory is it was a new safety feature that used GPS technology to track missing persons or allow easy and safe entry into the car. Although these methods are aids in locating a lost person, these devices contain specific private information that provides personal information and their identity (N. A. , Wandering, 2007). Even though these devices have medical and safety benefits, it is another unique system which shows diminished privacy. Computer technology has advanced to the point of 1) storing bits of information about individuals over long periods of time, 2) separate databases of information that may contain pictures, tracing an individual’s physical location without their knowledge and increasing the power to use during surveillance situations. For example, social and professional networking cites, global positioning tracking systems are all used to provide information on individuals and their whereabouts. Many people voluntarily provided specific information without knowing or understanding that they are giving out private information concerning themselves, family and friends. Computers have the ability to be tracked and computer hackers can break security codes and gain access to private and secret information that one may store on their computer’s hard drive (Rauhofer, 2008). Ever been to a grocery store, pharmacy chain or a retail outlet and upon completing the purchase transaction the question is posed â€Å"do you have your loyalty/bonus card? Many people are not aware that reward, bonus and discount cards are an intrusion of one’s privacy. These ‘rewards cards’ and ‘points cards’ have encrypted information on them about the individual card holder (Albrecht, n. d. ). Abuse of information is likely. According to Elgin Community Reward (2013) more than 60% of U. S. households said that loyalty card programs were important in their shopping d ecisions, but they did not know companies were using them and their information to increase sales and revenue. These cards are structured for marketing to encourage, reward and reveal the loyal buying behavior to the store of the card holder. These cards looks like credit cards and/or have smaller versions to attach to key fobs. They contain pertinent information which the customer has furnished through the application process to identify types of merchandise purchased, the likes and dislikes of the consumer. While the Fourth Amendment protects people against unreasonable searches and seizures of government officials, The Health Information Portability Accountability Act (HIPAA) attempts to protect individual private medical information and ensure that it will remain safe and secure in storage or transit via the internet (Malcolm, 2005). According to Malcolm (2005) as technology moves into the twenty-second century and the distribution of information widens via the internet individuals information is going to become less private and more apt to become public (Malcolm, 2005). HIPAA of 1996 provides legal protection for a patient’s medical records and ways to file complaints. It is normally one of the first documents given to a patient completing paperwork. In a society where technology is the way of communication, doing business and functioning on a daily basis, privacy is not in the front of he technology movement. As Americans in the 21st century living amidst social webbing, internet technology, electronic communication, GPS tracking and laws of privacy, many issues still surface regarding the ability to provide acceptable and appropriate privacy. Despite technology advancements and current security configurations, online users still feel their personal data and privacy is vanishing. Privacy in the 21st Cent ury is possible with the advancement of technology but at the hands of those who created technology for the consumer. Privacy has taken a new meaning and redrawn the boundaries of the right to privacy from where they have been traditionally outlined. Politicians have helped reshaped society rather than society itself. Zdziarski (2013) suggest that when politicians and lawyers begin to control how society views privacy, it can only lead down the path to an unavoidable authoritarian government, with surveillance, constant monitoring and the mindset that Big Brother is always watching. Many Americans cherish their privacy, and it is essential to a free country, so much that the framers of our Constitution made it an exclusive item in our Bill of Rights (Zdziarski, 2013). Individuals’ right to privacy should be protected. They have the right to use computers, email, social cites and handle day-to-day business without the fear of their privacy being invaded. As a country that holds democracy in high esteem, individuals cannot survive without any of their constitutional rights or freedoms: free speech, the right to keep and bear arms, or the right to protect ourselves from an overstepping government. Privacy was never meant to be taken for granted and it was not meant to be taken away from Americans. In conclusion, privacy is almost impossible in the 21st century. Entities like credit reporting agencies, the internet, debt collectors, human services departments has given so many companies and individuals’ access to others’ information without questioning why it is being obtained or the purpose of housing one’s personal and private information. Although computers, organizations and companies have passwords and protective policies in place to discourage and keep one’s personal information protected, a lot of Americans are finding out that their personal information, bank and credit accounts are being sold from one company to another, to obtain intelligent about who you are and your interests. In doing this, companies use this approach to deliver personal advertisement to you of offers, goods and services directly connected to your happiness. Payments are other common reasons for information being sold.

Wednesday, November 27, 2019

Short Mothers Day Quotes for Emails or Cards

Short Mothers Day Quotes for Emails or Cards The mother-child bond is too strong to be dulled by distance. Even if you are miles away from your dear mother, reach out to her with a thoughtful message. If you have something more elaborate in mind, here are some ideas. Why Use Mothers Day Quotes Usually, it is not too difficult to pick a gift for mothers. Mothers are not fussy creatures. Youd hardly meet a mother who would tell her son, Honey, Id really like the exquisite silver cutlery I saw at Macys. On the contrary, she would mostly say something like, Oh, sweetie, dont bother with these expensive gifts. All I want is to spend time with you. So heres the hint: Your mother needs you. Your mother, though she deserves a lot more, needs just a little bit of your time. If you want to be thoughtful, scribble her a few Mothers Day quotes to make her feel special. Share some happy moments with her, reading these wonderful quotes about mothers. Talk about your beautiful childhood memories, and watch her eyes go misty with those memories. Thats how you can make your mother the happiest woman in the world. Jane SellmanThe phrase working mother is redundant.Spanish ProverbAn ounce of mother is worth a pound of clergy.Bill WattersonMothers are the necessity of invention.Harriet Beecher StoweMothers are instinctive philosophers.Jewish proverbA mother understands what a child does not say.James Russell LowellThat best academy, a mothers knee.D. W. WinnicottThe precursor of the mirror is the mothers face.Henry Ward BeecherThe mothers heart is the childs school-room.Jill ChurchillThere is no way to be a perfect mother and a million ways to be a good one.William Makepeace ThackerayMother is the name for God in the lips and hearts of little children.George WashingtonAll I am I owe to my mother.Lisa AltherAny mother could perform the jobs of several air-traffic controllers with ease.Ian NelsonMommy brain: when your grey matter turns into grey hair.Moorish ProverbEvery beetle is a gazelle in the eyes of its mother.Abraham LincolnAll that I am or ever hope to be, I owe to my angel Mother.The Gold en GirlsIts not easy being a mother. If it were easy, fathers would do it. J. D. SalingerMothers are all slightly insane.Ed AsnerRaising a kid is part joy and part guerilla warfare.Lin YutangOf all the rights of women, the greatest is to be a mother.

Saturday, November 23, 2019

Malcolm X, Black Nationalist and Civil Rights Activist

Malcolm X, Black Nationalist and Civil Rights Activist Malcolm X (May 19, 1925–February 21, 1965) was a prominent figure during the Civil Rights era. Offering an alternative view to the mainstream Civil Rights movement, Malcolm X advocated for both the establishment of a separate black community (rather than integration) and the use of violence in self-defense (rather than non-violence). His forceful, uncompromising belief in the evils of the white man frightened the white community. After Malcolm X left the black Muslim Nation of Islam organization, for which he had been both a spokesperson and a leader, his views toward white people softened, but his core message of black pride endured. After Malcolm X was assassinated in 1965, his autobiography continued to spread his thoughts and passion. Fast Facts: Malcolm X Known For: Major figure in the African American Civil Rights movementAlso Known As: el-Hajj Malik el-Shabazz, Malcolm LittleBorn: May 19, 1925 in Omaha, NebraskaParents: Rev. Earl Little, Louise LittleDied: February 21, 1965 in New York, New YorkEducation: Through grade eightPublished Works: The Autobiography of Malcolm  XAwards and Honors:  Multiple historic markers and plaques; streets and schools named in his honor; stamp produced with his likenessSpouse: Betty SandersChildren: Attallah, Qubilah, Ilyasah, Gamilah, Malikah, MalaaknNotable Quote: â€Å"The white man is afraid of truth†¦ I’m the only black man they’ve ever been close to who they know speaks the truth to them. Its their guilt that upsets them, not me.† Early Life of Malcolm X Malcolm X was born as Malcolm Little in Omaha, Nebraska to Earl and Louise Little (neà © Norton). Earl was a Baptist minister and also worked for Marcus Garveys Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA), a pan-African movement in the 1920s. Louise, who had grown up in Grenada, was Earls second wife. Malcolm was the fourth of the six children Louise and Earl shared. (Earl also had three children from his first marriage.) As a kid, Malcolm would often attend UNIA meetings with his father, who was president of the Omaha chapter at one point, absorbing Garveys argument that the African-American community had the tools and resources to blossom without dependence on the white man. Earl Little challenged the social standards of the time. When he began to attract the attention of the Ku Klux Klan, he moved his family to a white neighborhood in Lansing, Michigan. Neighbors protested. On November 8, 1929, a group of white supremacists known as the Black Legion set fire to the Littles home with Malcolm and his family inside. Luckily, the Littles managed to escape but then watched their house burn to the ground while firemen did nothing to put out the flames. Despite the seriousness of the threats against him, Earl did not let intimidation silence his beliefs- and this almost certainly cost him his life. Malcolm X’s Father Is Murdered While the details of his death remain uncertain, what is known is that Earl was murdered on September 28, 1931 (Malcolm was only 6 years old). Earl had been savagely beaten and then left on trolley tracks, where he was run over by a trolley. Although those responsible were never found, the Littles always believed the Black Legion was responsible. Realizing he was likely to meet a violent end, Earl had purchased life insurance; however, the life insurance company ruled his death a suicide and refused to pay. These events plunged Malcolms family into poverty. Louise tried to work, but this was during the Great Depression and there weren’t many jobs for the widow of a black activist. Welfare was available, but Louise didn’t want to take charity. Things were tough in the Little home. There were six children and very little money or food. The strain of taking care of everyone by herself started to take its toll on Louise and by 1937, she was showing signs of becoming mentally ill. In January 1939, Louise was committed to the State Mental Hospital in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Malcolm and his siblings were divided up. Malcolm was one of the first to go, even before his mother was institutionalized. In October 1938, 13-year-old Malcolm was sent to a foster home, which was soon followed by a detention home. Despite his unstable home life, Malcolm was a success at school. Unlike the other kids at the detention home who were sent to a reform school, Malcolm was allowed to attend Mason Junior High School, the only regular junior high in town. While at junior high, Malcolm earned top grades even against his white classmates. However, when a white teacher told Malcolm that he couldn’t become a lawyer but should instead consider becoming a carpenter, Malcolm was so disturbed by the comment that he began withdrawing from those around him. When Malcolm met his half-sister Ella for the first time, he was ready for a change. Drugs and Crime Ella was a confident, successful young woman living in Boston at the time. When Malcolm asked to go live with her, she agreed. In 1941, having just finished the eighth grade, Malcolm moved from Lansing to Boston. While exploring the city, he befriended a hustler named â€Å"Shorty† Jarvis, who also happened to come from Lansing. Shorty got Malcolm a job shining shoes at the Roseland Ballroom, where top bands of the day played. Malcolm soon learned that his customers also hoped he could supply them with marijuana. It wasn’t long before Malcolm was selling drugs as well as shining shoes. He also personally started to smoke cigarettes, drink liquor, gamble, and do drugs. Dressing in zoot suits and â€Å"conking† (straightening) his hair, Malcolm loved the fast life. He then moved to Harlem in New York and began getting involved in petty crimes and selling drugs. Soon, Malcolm himself developed a drug habit (cocaine) and his criminal behavior escalated. After several run-ins with the law, Malcolm was arrested in February 1946 for burglary and sentenced to 10 years in prison. He was sent to the Charlestown State Prison in Boston. Prison Time and the Nation of Islam In late 1948, Malcolm was transferred to the Norfolk, Massachusetts Prison Colony. It was there that Malcolms brother Reginald introduced him to the Nation of Islam (NOI). Originally founded in 1930 by Wallace D. Fard, the Nation of Islam was a black Muslim organization that believed blacks were inherently superior to whites and predicted the destruction of the white race. After Fard mysteriously disappeared in 1934, Elijah Muhammad took over the organization, calling himself the â€Å"Messenger of Allah.† Malcolm believed in what his brother Reginald told him. Through personal visits and many letters from Malcolm’s siblings, Malcolm began to learn more about the NOI. Using Norfolk Prison Colony’s extensive library, Malcolm rediscovered education and began reading extensively. With his ever increasing knowledge, Malcolm began writing to Elijah Muhammad daily. By 1949, Malcolm had converted to the NOI, which required purity of body- eliminating Malcolms drug habit. In 1952, Malcolm emerged from prison a devoted follower of the NOI and a proficient writer, two essential factors in changing his life. Becoming an Activist Once out of prison, Malcolm moved to Detroit and began recruiting for the NOI. Elijah Muhammad, the leader of the NOI, became Malcolms mentor and hero, filling the void Earls death had left. In 1953, Malcolm adopted the NOI’s tradition of replacing one’s last name (which was thought to have been forced upon an ancestor by their white slave-owner) with the letter X, a reference to the unknown heritage complicating African-American identity. Charismatic and passionate, Malcolm X rose quickly in the NOI, becoming the minister of the groups Temple Seven in Harlem in June 1954. Malcolm X simultaneously was becoming an accomplished journalist; he wrote for several publications before he founded the NOIs newspaper, Muhammad Speaks. While working as the minister of Temple Seven, Malcolm X noticed that a young nurse named Betty Sanders had started attending his lectures. Without ever having gone on an individual date, Malcolm and Betty got married on January 14, 1958. The couple went on to have six daughters; the last two were twins who were born after Malcolm X’s assassination. America Encounters Malcolm X Malcolm X soon became a visible figure in the NOI, but it was the wonder of television that brought him national attention. When CBS aired the documentary Nation of Islam: The Hate That Hate Produced, in July of 1959, Malcolm Xs dynamic speech and obvious charm reached a national audience. Malcolm Xs radical claims of black superiority and refusal to accept non-violent strategies got him interviews across the social spectrum. Malcolm X had become a national figure and the de facto face of the NOI. While Malcolm X became well-known, he was not necessarily liked. His views unsettled much of America. Many in the white community feared that Malcolm Xs doctrine would incite mass violence against whites. Many in the black community were concerned that Malcolm X’s militancy would destroy the growing effectiveness of the non-violent, mainstream Civil Rights Movement. Malcolm X’s newfound fame also attracted the attention of the FBI, which soon began tapping his phone over concerns that some kind of racially based revolution was brewing. Malcolm Xs meetings with Cuban Communist leader Fidel Castro did little to alleviate these fears. Trouble Within the NOI By 1961, Malcolm Xs meteoric rise within the organization as well as his new celebrity status had become a problem within the NOI. Simply stated, other ministers and members of the NOI had become jealous. Many began insinuating that Malcolm X was financially profiting from his position and that he intended to take over the NOI from Muhammad. This jealousy and envy bothered Malcolm X, but he tried to put it out of his mind. In 1962, rumors about improprieties by Muhammad began to reach Malcolm X. To Malcolm X, Muhammad was not only a spiritual leader but also a moral example for all to follow. It was this moral example that had helped Malcolm X escape his drug addiction and keep him abstinent for 12 years (from the time of his prison sentence to his marriage). Thus, when it became obvious that Muhammad had engaged in immoral behavior, including fathering four illegitimate children, Malcolm X was devastated by his mentors deception. Things Get Worse After President John F. Kennedy was assassinated on November 22, 1963, Malcolm X, never one to shy away from conflict, publicly interpreted the event as the chickens coming home to roost. Malcolm X claimed that he meant the feelings of hate within America were so great that they had spilled over from the conflict between black and white and ended up causing the killing of the president. However, his comments were interpreted as support for the death of the  beloved Kennedy, a Democrat from Massachusetts. Muhammad, who had specifically ordered all his ministers to remain silent regarding Kennedy’s assassination, was very unhappy over the negative publicity. As punishment, Muhammad ordered Malcolm X to be â€Å"silenced† for 90 days. Malcolm X accepted this punishment, but he soon discovered that Muhammad intended to push him out of the NOI. In March 1964, the internal and external pressure became too much and Malcolm X announced that he was leaving the Nation of Islam, an organization he had worked so hard to grow. Returning to Islam After leaving the NOI in 1964, Malcolm decided to found his own religious organization, Muslim Mosque, Inc. (MMI), which catered to former NOI members. Malcolm X turned to traditional Islam to inform his path. In April 1964, he began a pilgrimage (or hajj) to Mecca in Saudi Arabia. While in the Middle East, Malcolm X was amazed by the diversity of complexions represented there. Even before returning home, he began to rethink his earlier divisive positions and decided to prioritize faith over skin color. Malcolm X symbolized this shift by changing his name once again, becoming El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz. Malcolm X then toured Africa, where the early influence of Marcus Garvey reemerged. In May 1964, Malcolm X began his own pan-African movement with the Organization of Afro-American Unity (OAAU), a secular organization that advocated for human rights for all those of African descent. As head of the OAAU, Malcolm X met with world leaders to forward this mission, generating a far more diverse following than the NOI. Whereas once he had shunned all of white society, he now encouraged interested whites to teach about oppression. Running both the MMI and the OAAU exhausted Malcolm, but both spoke to passions that defined him- faith and advocacy. Death Malcolm Xs philosophies had changed dramatically, bringing him more in line with the mainstream Civil Rights movement. However, he still had enemies. Many in the NOI felt he had betrayed the movement when he publicly discussed Muhammads adultery. On February 14, 1965, Malcolm Xs New York home was firebombed. He believed the NOI was responsible. Still ever defiant, Malcolm X did not let this attack interrupt his schedule. He traveled to Selma, Alabama and returned to New York for a speaking engagement at the Audubon Ballroom in Harlem on February 21, 1965. This was Malcolm Xs last speech. Once Malcolm was at the podium, a commotion in the middle of the crowd drew attention. While everyone was focused on the commotion, Talmadge Hayer and two other NOI members stood up and shot Malcolm X. Fifteen bullets hit their target, killing Malcolm X. He was dead before he reached the hospital. The chaos that broke out at the scene spilled into the streets of Harlem as mob violence and the firebombing of a Black Muslim mosque followed. Malcolms critics, including Elijah Muhammad, maintained that he died by the very violence he defended in his early career. Talmadge Hayer was arrested at the scene and two other men were taken into custody shortly after. All three would be convicted of the murder; however, many believe the other two men were not guilty. Many questions remain about the assassination; specifically, who really carried out the shooting and who ordered the assassination in the first place? Legacy In the month prior to his death, Malcolm X had been dictating his biography to noted African-American author Alex Haley. The Autobiography of Malcolm X was published in 1965, just months after Malcolm Xs murder. Through his autobiography, Malcolm X’s powerful voice continued to inspire the black community to advocate for their rights. The Black Panthers, for example, used Malcolm X’s teachings to found their own organization in 1966. Today, Malcolm X remains one of the more controversial figures of the Civil Rights era. He is generally respected for his passionate demand for change in one of historys most trying (and deadly) times for black leaders. Sources The Autobiography of Malcolm  X. With the assistance of Alex Haley. New York: Grove Press, 1965. Mamiya, Lawrence. XMalcom. Encyclopà ¦dia Britannica, 1 February 2019. Remnick, David. â€Å"This American Life: The making and remaking of Malcolm X.† The New Yorker, The New Yorker, 19 June 2017.

Thursday, November 21, 2019

An American Prisoner of War, World War II, Held by the Japanese Research Paper

An American Prisoner of War, World War II, Held by the Japanese - Research Paper Example Even I had been getting letters quite frequently from my family in Wisconsin, but circumstances, kept me from going back even after United States had declared war on the Japanese. The canons were now faced in the direction of the seas and the British Navy were ready for the Japanese onslaught – or at least, they thought they were, until the day of reckoning for a thousand Singaporeans came on 8th February, 2942. The British troops were outsmarted by the Japanese as their troops made their way into Singapore on bicycles and after making their way through the heavy marshes and swamps of the Malay Peninsula, the Japanese took the British army by surprise. There were many stories going on about the barbarity of the Japanese army and word got around that the Japanese were not interested in taking prisoners any more. i A pamphlet was distributed amongst the Japanese that I also got to see for myself, which apparently was an ominous command that specifically told them to see their victims as the murderers of their fathers and not hold themselves back from killing them, which will lighten their hearts. ii I only understood the real meaning of the text after I was forced to learn Japanese in the camps, but these were just the tip of the ice berg of the blatant savagery that they had inflicted on the people there. This spelled a disaster for everyone in the peninsula and being on the outskirts of Bukit Timah, I had become accustomed to the sounds of gun shots and explosion in the distance. The violence was rapidly expanding. The Singaporeans put up a final stand against Japan in the battle of Bukit Chandu headed by General Adnan, where the Japanese disguised themselves as Punjabi troops and were compromised. Despite the fact that the Punjabi troops launched an excellent defensive attack, they outmaneuvered by the Japanese and then their

Tuesday, November 19, 2019

It's a personal statement to apply a graduate or phd of economics

It's a to apply a graduate or phd of economics major. (2 pages, around 750) - Personal Statement Example Being an international student, I want to learn more and study in an international university to be successful. I read â€Å"The Wealth of Nations† when I was in high school in Shanghai, China. From that time, I have studied a number of other books and have realized the importance of economics not only in our daily life but in the overall system. By studying this book, I analyzed why some people are poor and some are rich and several other secrets of life. This was just the first book that I read on the subject of Economics and from then, I have read a number of books related to economics, Macroeconomics, Microeconomics, Econometrics, Environmental Economics, Economic Issues in China, Developmental of economics and several others. I love economics but this does not mean I have not valued other subjects. I like different subjects such as Mathematics, Philosophy, Law, Politics, Arts, History, Aesthetics and Sociology. I have studied different subjects throughout my academic career such as Western Art, History, Eastern and Western Civilization, Psychology, Music Appreciation and Theatre Appreciation. I am very good with subjects related to mathematics as well. When it comes to calculations I believe I am a champion. I have also studied different subjects in the domain of mathematics such as; Probability, Statics, Linear Algebra, Real Analysis and Geometry. Besides my academic career and studies, I have been a very popular and social person. I have been involved with different clubs and groups and this has helped in increasing my confidence and communication skills. I am an Executive Board Officer of KU Chinese Student’s Book Club. The aim of our club is to create awareness and enhance the knowledge regarding international affairs, western civilization and other important international issues that can help students in their professional life. The club focuses a

Sunday, November 17, 2019

The Pullman Strike Essay Example for Free

The Pullman Strike Essay Populism, an agrarian backlash against industrialism, fed on the economic problems of the era and created new urgency in labor activism. Toward the end of the Harrison administration, growing labor discontent led to several strikes, including a violent steel strike in Homestead, Pennsylvania, in July of 1892. Cleveland inherited the challenge of maintaining peace in a time when the patience and endurance of both labor and management were under severe strain. His leadership was especially tested during the Pullman Strike of 1894. Financial crisis and severe economic depression, known in short as the Panic of 1893, placed hardship on industries that already faced significant problems over the last two decades. The Pullman Palace Car Company, which serviced the railroad industry, cut wages by nearly one fourth. Employees who lived in the company-controlled town of Pullman, outside of Chicago, found that rent and other expenses did not decrease in relation to incomes, however, so families spent the same although they earned far less than they had earlier. Members of the American Railway Union in Pullman went on strike in Pullman on May 11, 1894, to protest the situation. The company president, George M. Pullman, refused to discuss the matter or seek arbitration of the dispute. In response to Pullman’s unwillingness to compromise, the union’s national council president, Eugene V. Debs, called for a national boycott of   Pullman cars. The spark ignited a wildfire: soon sympathy strikes broke out in twenty-seven different U.S. states and territories. Chicago in particular became the center of unprecedented violent demonstrations. Despite the bloodshed, the governor of Illinois, John P. Altgeld, refused to call the militia to impose order, because he was sympathetic to the strikers and the difficulties they faced. The U.S. attorney general, Richard Olney, had no such qualms. He secured an injunction against the strikers for impeding mail service and interstate commerce through their actions. Cleveland backed this with force, ordering 2,500 federal troops to Chicago on July 4 despite Governor Altgeld’s wishes. Within a week the strike ended and by July 20, Cleveland felt satisfied that order was restored and withdrew the troops. Union national president Debs was convicted of contempt of court and conspiring against interstate commerce, proving that the Sherman Anti-Trust Act could be used against union officials and activity as well as industry leaders and practices. Debs continued to pen letters and treatises from prison, arguing on behalf of labor concerns and attacking the decision to turn U.S. troops against strikers. Cleveland, however, was satisfied that he had done the right thing by ending violence and putting down the â€Å"riotous mob.† Debs viewed the workers as the victims of management’s greed and the economy’s downturn; Cleveland saw the bystanding people of Chicago who encountered the violence created by the strike situation as the innocents. If Cleveland’s hard money, pro-gold standard position already suggested to populists that he sympathized with business over labor, the president’s actions regarding the Pullman Strike confirmed this assessment. Cleveland’s choice earned the gratitude of industry leaders but severed any final links he might have had with labor. Economists, ministers and other shapers of public opinion joined in the hue and cry against the strikers, their union and its president, Eugene Debs. They called openly for force and violence against the strikers, quoting approvingly Napolean Bonapartes statement: Shooting down one at the right time is saving the lives of tens of thousands in the future. Said Dr. Herrick Johnson, professor at the Presbyterian Theological Seminary in Chicago. The soldiers must use their guns. They must shoot to kill. The soldiers did use their guns and they did shoot to kill25 workers were killed and 60 badly injuredyet the strike remained unbroken. Thus the Associated Press reported: Despite the presence of United States troops and the mobilization of five regiments of state militia; despite threats of martial law and bullet and bayonet, the great strike inaugurated by the American Railway Union holds three-fourths of the roads running out of Chicago in its strong fetters, and last night traffic was more fully paralyzed than at any time since the inception of the tie-up. The intervention of federal troops did not halt the spread of the strike; Troops cannot move trains, Debs wired the striking locals. Nor did the sabotage of the strike by the officials of the railroad brotherhoods. The Pullman strike was broken, not by the U.S. troops, not by the opposition of the leadership of the brotherhoods, but by the action taken by the federal courts. The sweeping injunction made the very command of the union leaders to their striking men . . . an open defiance of the courts. As a result of the injunction, it became literally impossible for the strike leaders, centered in Chicago, to coordinate the striking groups scattered from Michigan to California. When the leadership of the strikers even urged workers to join the struggle, they were cited for contempt and arrested. Moreover, throughout the country, grand juries, hastily impaneled by the government, indicted hundreds of strikers and their leaders for conspiracy. On July 10, the federal grand jury at Chicago returned indictments against the officers of the union, charging them with complicity in obstructing the mails and hindering interstate commerce. Debs and his fellow officers were arrested on the same day and were released on bail. While Debs and his associates were in the custody of the court, the union headquarters were raided and ransacked by a squad of deputy marshals and deputy postoffice inspectors. With the strike leaders removed from the scene of action, the strike headquarters in Chicago ransacked and abandoned, with all contact among the various local organizations of the union cut off, with the newspapers printing false reports of a sweeping back-to-work movement, it is not surprising that most of the strikers became confused and uncertain as how to act. Frantic telegrams poured into the strike headquarters in Chicago, but there was no one there to reply. Small wonder that demoralization spread rapidly among the strikers. Although some workers, especially in Chicago, wrested gains from their employers during the great labor upheaval accompanying the Pullman strike, all of organized labor, along with the A.R.U. suffered an overwhelming defeat. Nevertheless, many American workers gained rich experience and more valuable lessons from the struggle about the underlying wrongs of modern society than all the lectures and publications could secure in a decade. Many workers now saw clearly that the government was the tool of corporate interests, a conviction that wasto intensify the feeling for independent political action in labor circles.They also saw that only through powerfully organized unions and the utmost of solidarity could labor effectively challenge the might of corporate monopolies. As Debs pointed out in a letter to American workers, from Woodstock jail: The recent upheaval has demonstrated the necessity for the solidarity of labor. Divided and cross purposes, labor becomes the sport and prey of its exploiters, but united, harmonious and intelligently directed it rules the world. Yet there were elements in the labor movement who drew precisely the opposite conclusion from the recent upheaval. Many craft union leaders of the A. F. of L. and the railroad brotherhoods saw in the defeat of the strike a justification of their own conservative policies. The ferocity with which the corporate monopolies, the government, and the judiciary struck back at the railroad workers convinced these craft union leaders that any attempt to build trade unions along the lines of the A.R.U.-the lines of industrial unionismwould bring forth similar opposition from this alliance of big business and the government. The only type of unionism that would be tolerated was a unionism which did not seriously threaten the absolute control of the corporate monopolies over the economic and political machinery. To attempt to unite the workers into powerful industrial unions, the craft union leaders argued, was to court the destruction of the existing labor organizations and to doom the trade unions to the fate of the A.R.U. The essence of this trade union strategy can be stated simply: Labor must never seriously challenge big business and the government. Avoid head-on collisions with big corporations and with government. Team up with these industrialists and politicians who seem inclined toward a live-and-let-live policy with the craft unions. Make peace with the employers on certain terms which would keep the craft unions alive even if this meant increased victimization of the unskilled and semiskilled workers. This policy was soon institutionalized in the National Civic Federation. The progressive forces in the labor movement challenged the conclusions the conservative, craft union leaders drew from the Pullman strike. Had all organized labor been united and active in the support of the strikers from the beginning of the boycott, they argued, had it sought militantly to keep the courts and the federal government from entering the dispute, had it tried to restrain the strikebreaking activities of the leaders of the brotherhoods, the final outcome might have been different. At any rate, the lesson of the Pullman strike, as Debs so cogently pointed out, was the crying need for greater not less unity and solidarity in labors ranks. From 1894 on the progressive forces in the American labor movement strove diligently to apply this lesson. The odds against them were great. The corporate monopolies fought tooth and nail to prevent the rise of a labor movement that would unite all of labor in struggle against its exploiters. The monopolists had the ready assistance of the leaders of the craft unions, the press, large sections of the clergy, and, of course, the government, local, state, and federal. But the progressive forces persisted, keeping alive the policy pioneered by the A.R.U.the policy of working class solidarity and for a new organizational form that led toward industrial unionism. In 1905, a delegate to the founding convention of the Industrial Workers of the World characterized the great Pullman Strike as a battle that in spite of the fact that it apparently ended in Woodstock jail, is not ended yet, but is going on today. That battle continued until the cause for which so many workers had sacrificed in 1894 was crowned with success. The ultimate victory, it is significant to note, was predicted in the course of the great strike itself; indeed, at the very point when it appeared almost certain that labors struggle was lost. On a large canvas strip, prominently displayed in Cooper Union Hall, New York City, on the evening of July 12, 1894, where a mass meeting of workers in support of the Pullman strikers was being held, was the following legend: They hanged and quartered John Ball But Feudalism passed away. They hanged John Brown, but Chattel Slaverypassed away. They arrested Eugene Debs, and may kill him, but White Slaverywill pass away. Such souls go marching on. The strike was marked by the precipitate use of Federal troops, which led to rioting, property destruction, and a long casualty list. The strike was reported by conservative journals as an anarchist plot designed to destroy the nation. By suppressing such a black-mailing conspiracy as the boycott of the Pullman cars by the American Railway Union, asserted the New York Herald, the nation is fighting for its own existence just as truly as in suppressing the great rebellion.    Typical of the Pullman Strike, as of other struggles, was the liberal-conservative split. William H. Garwardine, a pastor who had ministered to the strikers, warned that we as a nation are dividing ourselves, like ancient Rome into two classes, the rich and the poor, the oppressor and the oppressed. Unless the government enforced justice he predicted, the nation would not prosper . . . [nor] long perpetuate itself and its institutions. Those who supported, as well as those who despised, labor thought the events of the Nineties were pushing the republic to the brink of chaos, but reformers blamed class oppression rather than radicalism and proposed to do away with poverty rather than to discipline it. Despite all these forebodings, the dismal future never dawned. The workers and farmers did not rise, and the lives and property of the middle class were never touched. If Americans had not been misled by their own fears, they would perhaps have realized that these conflicts, though violent, would never be revolutionary. The industrial armies, the workers, and the Populists did not want to destroy the system; they simply wanted to secure a place within it or at least to change it back to what it had been in 1860. The strikes were defensive, aimed at very practical ends like preventing wage cuts. They were not the class-conscious assaults imagined by the left and feared by the bourgeoisie. Populism took its menacing tone, not from radical aims like nationalizing wealth, but from outraged conservatism. A stubborn clinging to the past, an attempt to regain lost virtuesthese forces lay behind the agrarian crusades embittered idealism. Too often, in their fear, people accepted the slogans of socialists, unions, and Populists as accurate descriptions of reality. They mistook programs for philosophies, and what they saw as the death throes of our civilization were really its growth pangs.

Thursday, November 14, 2019

Starbucks International - Foreign Market Entry Strategy Essay -- GCSE

Starbucks International - Foreign Market Entry Strategy Starbucks International has gone beyond the normal philosophy of Starbucks, to create a re-birth of their product line in foreign countries. Typically in the United States, Starbucks owns its entire line of coffee-bar stores outright with no franchise investments or partnerships. However, their international operations are quite the opposite. Starbucks International has adopted a strategy of partnerships to create its line of international coffee-bar stores. These joint ventures create an increased ease of entry into the foreign market. Starbucks International choose to be involved with partnerships for the benefits these relationships offered over their typical wholly owned subsidiary philosophy. However, choosing the right partner, poses a potential problem for the company. Although Starbucks uses multiple lines of distribution to saturate to US coffee market, its international operations consist only of coffee-bar restaurants. Therefore, they only have one channel of distribution internationally. Through this, Starbucks had to choose a partner that would facilitate their creation and expansion of coffee bars in the international arena, specifically Asia and Japan their primary target. Starbucks developed a series of criteria to which they evaluated different potential partnerships in Japan and other foreign countries. First, they sought to implement the idea of ?partnership first, county second,? as a means of developing partnerships that focuses on the companies goals, and not the countries goals. Second Starbucks noted six additional criteria they used to narrow and conclude their partnership search. (1) They looked for companies with similar ideas a... ...common ground. With a more casual atmosphere, Starbucks offer patrons ample seating areas and dine in or carry out services. However, there was originally some worry about the profitability and future growth of the Italian-style coffees in Japan. Japanese had never been exposed to this type of coffee before, so the taste of espresso drinks was as foreign to them as the name Starbucks. However, Starbucks? managers were confident that Japan was ready to indulge in the fine taste of Italian espresso. All in all, the partnership between Sazaby and Starbucks provided a moderately high benefit for local adaptation. Starbucks plan of a partnership is the best choice for an entry strategy into the international market. Their increased insight into the market, and the other benefits provided by this relationship, will propel Starbucks International into the future.

Tuesday, November 12, 2019

Accounting Cycle Paper

When making decisions, businesses must provide and be able to gather relevant and accurate financial information. Being able to gather and understand this information helps companies make the best informed decisions for business operations, which can only benefit the company. When it comes to gathering the information needed, it is pertinent that companies fully understand each step of the accounting cycle. Averkamp (2010) defines the accounting cycle as: â€Å"a process that includes the following steps: identifying, collecting and analyzing documents and transactions, recording the transactions in journals, posting the journalized amounts to accounts in the general and subsidiary ledgers, preparing an unadjusted trial balance, perhaps preparing a worksheet, determining and recording adjusting entries, preparing an adjusted trial balance, preparing the financial statements, recording and posting closing entries, preparing a post-closing trial balance, and perhaps recording reversing entries† (p. ). The accounting cycle is made op of eight basic steps witch include The basic steps in the accounting cycle are (1) identifying and measuring transactions and other events; (2) journalizing; (3) posting; (4) preparing an unadjusted trial balance; (5) making adjusting entries; (6) preparing an adjusted trial balance; (7) preparing financial statements; and (8) closing. Identifying and measuring transactions and other events The first step in the accounting cycle is determining what information that should be recorded. Kieso, Weygandt & Warfield (2007) explain that items should be recognized if, â€Å"it is an element, is measurable, and is relevant and reliable† (p 68). Companies are able to recognize as many dealings as they wish, especially if they feel that these dealings will affect the financial position of the company. Journalizing Journalizing includes entering the financial transactions and events into a journal. As part of the journalizing process general ledger, t-accounts, and general journals are used. Kieso, Weygandt & Warfield (2007) explain that the general ledger â€Å"contains all the assets, liability, stockholders’ equity, revenue, and expense accounts† (p 69). T-accounts are used to visualize the affects of the debit and credit on more then one account. A â€Å"general journal chronologically lists transactions and other events, expressed in terms of debits and credits to accounts† (Kieso, Weygandt & Warfield, 2007, p 69). Posting Posting, defined by Kieso, Weygandt & Warfield (2007) is the process of transferring journal entries to the ledger accounts. The general ledger provides information for the Balance Sheet . Trial Balance The trial balance step in the accounting cycle is the process of totaling the debits and credits and making sure that the sum of all debits equals the sum of all credits. Kieso, Weygandt & Warfield (2007), state that the procedures for preparing a trial balance includes, â€Å"listing the account titles and their balances; totaling the debit and credit columns; and providing the equality of the two columns† (p. 74). Adjusting Entries Adjusting Entries are journal entries that are made at the end of the accounting period, to adjust expenses and revenues to the accounting period where they actually occurred† (Cram, 2011, p 1). Adjusting entries are required every time the company prepares financial statements. Adjusting entries can be classified as prepayments or accruals. The purpose for this step in the accounting cycle is to determine the net income for the current period and to achieve an accurate statement of the end-of-the-period balance in assets, liabilities, and owners’ equity (Kieso, Weygandt & Warfield, 2007). Adjusted trial balance The next step in the accounting cycle is the step adjusted trial balance. This step is important because it is where companies make sure that the debits still equal the credits after making the adjustments in the previous step. Kieso, Weygandt & Warfield (2007) explain that, â€Å"It shows the balance of all accounts, including those adjusted, at the end of the accounting period† (p. 84). Preparing Financial Statements The seventh step in the accounting cycle is where the company would prepare the financial statements from the second trial balance. Closing The last step in the accounting cycle is closing entries. This is where companies prepare and post closing entries in order to transfer balances from temporary accounts to owner’s equity on the balance sheet. This step reduces the balance of normal accounts to zero to prepare the accounts for the next period’s transactions (Kieso, Weygandt & Warfield, 2007). References http://www.college-cram.com/study/accounting/accounting-cycle/adjusting-entries-in-accounting/

Sunday, November 10, 2019

Minor setback for a major comeback

All of my family members and friends are counting on me that I will make It that far, all the supporters that eave cheered me on since I could remember. Making my family proud has always been a goal of mines and to make them happy Is my goal. Taking a deep breath, I try to relax as I begin with testing. It felt Like some of the longest hours of my life, and over thinking really affected me hard. Being careful on each question I found myself going pretty quickly, and surprisingly ended faster than I thought.I walked out with heavy confidence that I would pass. Weeks went by and I finally received my test scores. I received a 1270 and wasn't too happy about it, but I was glad that I improved by 50 points since the last time aging the test. I didn't think anything of it until during the beginning of summer my mother told me that I would have to take a summer course for also not doing so well on my placement test. At this point I am feeling stressed out and wondering if will still even b e able to attend college.My head was filled with thoughts that I would be taking some tough courses and struggle with Juggling school and volleyball. I just wanted to succeed in everything that I did. The classes were long and dreadful, and with hopes of having a fun filled summer with no worries at all, there I was taking not only a math class but an English class as well. â€Å"What have I gotten myself into† are the words that replayed in my head each day. My confidence was in the dumps. I had at least two classes each week, rushing from volleyball each time.I could hang out with family or friends but not for long, this truly sucked. It was clear that I didn't belong in there because I did very well. Although, in my math class, we took a test in the end that determined if we were to be placed in either a Math 98 or Math 99 course, and again, I did not pass yet another important test. Feeling even more dressed I eventually found the positive In everything. I told myself tha t I could only move on from there and make things better, that If I wanted to succeed as bad as I wanted to then I would put forth the effort Into doing so.After all of the chaos and hardships It was time to move Into my dorm! The excitement of college was In the air, leaving my house to be on my own gave me a sense of Independence and freedom. My roommates are my team mates which I was very excited about because we could bond and become closer. Meeting so many people from all over the world made me even more anxious for what the year has In tore for me. Double days kicked our butts, waking up at 6 AM to get ready and be to practice thirty minutes early to set up and get our gear on was rough at first.Practicing from 7-10, eating lunch at 1 1 :30, going back to the gym for the last session 1-4 followed by dinner at 5. It was tough to adjust to in the beginning but it slowly made me anxious for our upcoming season. I wanted to work my butt off and show everyone that I could handle it all. Volleyball has been my passion ever since I was 8 years old and I have been waiting for this opportunity nearly all of my life. To play at he collegiate level and compete against teams from all over and ultimately show what I am made of.I cannot get enough of this game! Something that has given me a harder drive is the fact that I am the first in my family to attend college straight out of high school as an athlete. This accomplishment has all of my family supporting and depending on me to do the right things and get through these next four years successfully. As I am sitting in my dorm room I receive a call, and when I look down its my Mom. She starts with asking me how I'm doing and begins to get into news that changes everything.I fall into my chair when she explains how this year I might not be participating on the court, and that a situation has caused me to possibly redstart. Tears fall down my eyes and I am immediately shocked and don't know how to react. My SAT score w as too short of points in my math section and the academic counselors are now realizing it. How stupid I thought, how hard is it to check if everything is all right with my academics, to make sure that I am eligible. I think about how much harder I could've studied, the long nights where my parents would ask me to get my work done.The school days where we had SAT prep and the times where I really focused on passing the SAT. I begin to think about my uncle and how he brought me up into the sport. My family, friends and supporters all were anxious to watch me participate this year and for me to have to think that I have to red shirt now began to cause a lot of tension. This situation has showed me that nothing is ever guaranteed, and the SAT has become my biggest downfall as a student. It has affected me and in the long run I am being held accountable for it. I have nobody else but to blame but myself.On a costive note, I am still allowed to practice with the team but not allowed to t ravel. I will be on the sidelines cheering my team members on and have faith that they will do great things this year. My academics are now a first priority but volleyball is still in the picture. This a blessing in disguise because now I have an opportunity to work on myself and be even more prepared for next year. My scholarship is still going and I am still receiving a free education which I am beyond thankful for. Next year I will be at my best and I will be ready to dominate at the collegiate level.

Thursday, November 7, 2019

Free Essays on Descartes Explains It All

While I am normally opposed to tedious labor, I found that reading Descartes’ Discourse on Method much less of a chore than I had anticipated. I hesitate to say that I enjoyed it; perhaps it would be best to say that I found it interesting. I was unable to materialize a singular argument encompassing to the entire work. Although, I was able to compose three separate opinions, each pertaining to different parts of the work: there is error with his thoughts about the reason people have; Descartes shares some ground with Richelieu; and the advice Descartes offers is for a much different end than that of Machiavelli of Richelieu. I immediately find myself in opposition to Descartes as he implies that all people are endowed with the same ability of reason. Being a Darwinist myself, in that I truly believe that some individuals possess an innate advantage over others, I am unable to relate to his assertions. This is partly due to the juxtaposition of Descartes’ optimism as a result of experience and religious devotion and my own juvenile cynicism as a result of inexperience and religious ambiguity. It could be argued that Descartes addresses my opinions by referring to the different ways people apply their reason. I am skeptical that this is an adequate explanation, though. Individuals have unique ways of interpreting images: some of us have to wear glasses, some of us suffer from a form of colorblindness, while still others are completely blind. In this same way, I am sure that different people have different ways of reasoning things, but that does not mean there are those devoid of such a faculty. Those individuals, in my opinion, are those individuals engaging in chronic self-destructive behaviors (e.g.: chemical dependence, abusive relationships, crime, etc.). Descartes goes on to sound much like Richelieu in his Political Testament. Descartes insists that single individuals making laws and designing systems is much ... Free Essays on Descartes Explains It All Free Essays on Descartes Explains It All While I am normally opposed to tedious labor, I found that reading Descartes’ Discourse on Method much less of a chore than I had anticipated. I hesitate to say that I enjoyed it; perhaps it would be best to say that I found it interesting. I was unable to materialize a singular argument encompassing to the entire work. Although, I was able to compose three separate opinions, each pertaining to different parts of the work: there is error with his thoughts about the reason people have; Descartes shares some ground with Richelieu; and the advice Descartes offers is for a much different end than that of Machiavelli of Richelieu. I immediately find myself in opposition to Descartes as he implies that all people are endowed with the same ability of reason. Being a Darwinist myself, in that I truly believe that some individuals possess an innate advantage over others, I am unable to relate to his assertions. This is partly due to the juxtaposition of Descartes’ optimism as a result of experience and religious devotion and my own juvenile cynicism as a result of inexperience and religious ambiguity. It could be argued that Descartes addresses my opinions by referring to the different ways people apply their reason. I am skeptical that this is an adequate explanation, though. Individuals have unique ways of interpreting images: some of us have to wear glasses, some of us suffer from a form of colorblindness, while still others are completely blind. In this same way, I am sure that different people have different ways of reasoning things, but that does not mean there are those devoid of such a faculty. Those individuals, in my opinion, are those individuals engaging in chronic self-destructive behaviors (e.g.: chemical dependence, abusive relationships, crime, etc.). Descartes goes on to sound much like Richelieu in his Political Testament. Descartes insists that single individuals making laws and designing systems is much ...

Tuesday, November 5, 2019

Quality Assurance and Software Testing Certifications

Quality Assurance and Software Testing Certifications When we think of IT (information technology) we tend to focus on development, network, and database issues. Its easy to forget that before sending work out to the user, there is a crucial middleman. That person or team is quality assurance (QA). QA comes in many forms, from the developer who tests her own code, to the testing gurus who work with automated testing tools. Many vendors and groups have recognized testing as an integral part of the development and maintenance process and have developed certifications to standardize and demonstrate knowledge of the QA process and testing tools. Vendors That Offer Testing Certifications Rational Empirix Vendor-Neutral Testing Certifications ISTQB Certified Tester, Foundation Level (CTFL) -   The Foundation Level qualification is aimed at professionals who need to demonstrate practical knowledge of the fundamental concepts of software testing. This includes people in roles such as test designers, test analysts, test engineers, test consultants, test managers, user acceptance testers and IT Professionals.The Foundation Level qualification is also appropriate for anyone who needs a basic understanding of software testing, such as project managers, quality managers, software development managers, business analysts, IT directors, and management consultants.Quality Improvement Associate Certification (CQIA)  -   The Certified Quality Improvement Associate has a basic knowledge of quality tools and their uses and is involved in quality improvement projects, but doesnt necessarily come from a traditional quality area.Certified Test Manager (CTM)  -   The CTM Certification was developed based on the Test Management Bod y of Knowledge (TMBOK) to fill the gap in the management skills required by test managers and test leads to effectively manage the test process, the test project and the test organization.   Certified Software Test Professional (CSTP)  -   CSTP is the short form for â€Å"Certified Software Test Professional. This was initiated by International Institute for Software Testing (IIST) in 1991, and so far has been successful in enhancing the career of thousands of aspirants by providing the professional skill set for software application testing. This certification program could be taken by any newcomer in the testing field as well as for the managers and leaders in the testing field.Six Sigma Black Belt Certification (CSSBB)  -   The Certified Six Sigma Black Belt is a professional who can explain Six Sigma philosophies and principles, including supporting systems and tools. A Black Belt should demonstrate team leadership, understand team dynamics and assign team member roles and responsibilities. Black Belts have a thorough understanding of all aspects of the DMAIC model in accordance with Six Sigma principles. They have basic knowledge of Lean enterprise concepts , are able to identify non-value-added elements and activities and are able to use specific tools. Certified Software Quality Analyst (CSQA) - Prove your level proficiency as a manager or advisor when it comes to IT principles and practices of quality assurance when you become Certified Software Quality Analyst certified. Although this list is short, the links above go to sites that offer more niche certifications for you to research. Those listed here are respected in IT and are a must-have for anyone considering an entry into the world of testing and Quality Assurance.

Sunday, November 3, 2019

Intellectual property Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 5000 words

Intellectual property - Essay Example In order to accomplish this fair balance, especially with the Internet as a tool that can facilitate both objectives, the international framework attempts to foster harmony among national laws for the protection and enforcement of intellectual property rights. This research study examines the international framework for intellectual property rights protection and how those laws are reflected in national framework by reference to the UAE. Table of Contents Abstract 2 Introduction 4 The International Regulation of Intellectual Property Rights 5 The Berne Convention 6 The Paris Convention 8 Trade Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) 11 WIPO Copyright Treaty 14 Intellectual Property Rights Protection and the Internet in the UAE 17 Analysis and Conclusion 19 Bibliography 22 Introduction Intellectual property is described as assets created via invention, innovation or hard work with a right of the author to forbid use of these assets as prescribed by law. Thus intellectu al property rights are formalised methods through which proprietary interests in â€Å"intellectual assets† are established (Maskus, 1998, p. 187). ... In addition, companies that develop software for use via the Internet are at a substantial risk of having this software copied by their competitors (Thurow, 1997). National legislation and judiciaries confront new challenges in protecting intellectual property rights within the realm of the Internet especially because of its global â€Å"reach† and â€Å"relatively unregulated growth† (Salbu, 1998, p. 434). The main problem for the holder of intellectual property rights is establishing jurisdiction over a party who infringes intellectual property rights via the Internet. When an infringer operates away from the jurisdiction in which the intellectual property rights are registered, the holder of those rights will usually have to cover the cost of litigating in a foreign venue (Rieder & Pappas, 1998). International intellectual property rights regulations are intended to establish harmony among nations in terms of minimum standards of protection and for the purpose of reg ulating questions relating to jurisdiction. The two main international regimes are the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) which host several multinational agreements and the Trade Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) under the auspices of the World Trade Organization (WTO) (Drahoa, 2005). The question for consideration however, is whether or not international conventions on intellectual property rights protection are sufficient for dealing with the complex issues associated with infringement via the Internet. For example, the United Arab Emirates is a party to both WIPO Convention and TRIPS and earlier international Conventions, and yet its national legislation which is bound by the international

Friday, November 1, 2019

Informative Speech on Current Marketing or Presentation

Informative on Current Marketing - Speech or Presentation Example Researchers have found that shopping habits are ingrained in consumers and they are often characterized by collecting certain items from one store and other items from a different store, that is, consumers will go to a toy store to get toys and go to a supermarket to get basic household commodities. Retailers must therefore place themselves in a position that allows them to take advantage of this complex environment (Krafft and Mantrala 7). Having been in existence for over a century, the Target Corporation an American retailing company has proved to be up to the challenge and has subsequently thrived in the retail industry. Through one of its employees, Target was able to create a model that allows the store to predict human behavior and thus preempt their competitors by meeting the individual needs of their customers. The challenge the store was facing was convincing their customers that they could shop for all they need at their store as opposed to getting specific items only wher e mostly it has been toiletries, cleaning supplies and socks. The biggest constraint was that consumers’ having their shopping habits ingrained which makes it difficult to convince them to adopt new ones. This restraint was presented by the marketers to one of the employees at the store that is a statistician. They explained that in every person’s life time there was a point at which their loyalties could be shifted. One such point is when expecting a baby where expectant mothers will look to brands offering them the best deals and in the past companies had caught up on this and resulted to sending them coupons. This was because companies can access birth records as they are made public. The challenge was now to preempt these companies by identifying a way to reach the expectant mothers while still in their early stages of pregnancy (Duhigg). The company already had a medium for collecting information but what they needed now was a way of predicting behavior. These two would then be integrated to allow the store capture customers as the data collected would be analyzed and be used to establish patterns that dictate shopping habits. This trend has been identified as predictive analytics and has been supported by a study that showed our thinking on issues such as dieting are influenced by habits rather than conscious decision-making which has allowed doctors to conjure up treatments for addictions, depression among other illnesses. Target tasked Andrew Pole the statistician employee with identifying when their customers’ shopping habits are particularly flexible so as to design suitable advertisements or coupons, which would lead the customers to have new, large spending habits. In essence, the store was striving to push psychological buttons after establishing a cue-routine-reward loop using a calculator designed by Pole. However, the issue of privacy came up as customers were bound to become worried about how Target was finding out such in formation. The company then decided to camouflage their intentions by sending ads for items that expectant mothers would need alongside other unrelated items so as to eliminate the fear of intrusion on privacy. Their most impressive story was where the company was able to determine a girl was pregnant even before her own father knew, leading them to send her coupons for expectant mothers (Duhigg). Predictive analytics raises the concept of shopper marketing as opposed to

Wednesday, October 30, 2019

ROLE OF VIRTUAL ORGANIZATIONS Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

ROLE OF VIRTUAL ORGANIZATIONS - Research Paper Example Results were as expected and the findings implied that virtual organizations offer a fashionable way of carrying out virtual businesses guaranteeing proper communication between the employees and e-consumers, ensuring low cost management, promising time-saving transactions and assuring a well collaborative environment with safe conduction of e-commerce, all based on some pixels on the computer screen. Current theories focus on the virtual world which is an online imaginary world or cyberspace world where people live imaginary lives, also called the Second Life, in which they establish and maintain businesses and make real money. The business in a virtual world is referred to as virtual business, the product produced is called virtual product, but the money made is real. In a virtual organization (VO), nothing really exists, or exists â€Å"as pixels dancing on the computer screens of people who inhabit the online virtual world† (Hof). Businesses are carried out on personal computers. Businessmen log into their accounts, interact with their employees, get updated about their performances, carry out commerce online, pay salaries using online payment websites, shop online and make sales online. A VO is a complete world in itself, having virtual products, goods and services. It has its own virtual economy which can even let one own a piece of land. The virtual currency can eve n be converted in to real dollars. VOs have made business possible that only exists in somebody’s brains without the need of tables, desks, chairs, offices, buildings, and cups of tea over meetings. Research has shown that VOs also play a major role in carrying out e-commerce, very much similar to real world. There are auction sites where one can place bids or sell something that one owns. One makes payments and gets paid online. There are shopping websites that let you shop whatever you want while sitting in the comfort of

Sunday, October 27, 2019

Effect of Policy on the UK Commercial Property Sector

Effect of Policy on the UK Commercial Property Sector This research project intends to assess and critically analyse what the impact, whether positive or negative. The Code for Leasing Business Premises in England and Wales 2007, has had on the commercial property sector from the standpoint of both the landlords and the tenants. It is designed, using primary research to aid the Government in assessing the level of success the Code has had and whether legislation is required to further enforce the protection of small business tenants. It is an interesting topic as the Government has sought to promote greater choice and flexibility in the property and leasing market for some time, but has been unsuccessful, also due to the fact that there are still very few reviews on the topic. The research, undertaken in July 2009 involves an investigation into leasing practice by small business tenants and their landlords, accompanied by secondary research. Structure of the Dissertation: Chapter 1: Introduction to the subject matter; containing the hypothesis, as well as the goals and objectives of the research. Chapter 2: Literature Review; sets out to critically analyse the current literature published on the subject and understand currently established views on the topic. A gap in the knowledge is also identified in the existing published literature. Chapter 3: Research Methodology; provides the methods and an explanation of them, that were used for primary and secondary research in this dissertation. Chapter 4:Research and Analysis; questionnaires and surveys presented in tables and graphs along with their analysis. Interviews unable to be quantified are scrutinized and compared in full. Chapter 5: Conclusion; compares the research with the hypothesis. Deducing its limitations and reliability, as well as whom these conclusions will impact, and any potential additional research that could be carried out. Hypothesis: The introduction of The Code for Leasing Business Premises in England and Wales 2007 has had no influence upon small business properties and their tenants and as a result was unjustifiable. Context and Background information: The Code for Leasing Business Premises in England and Wales 2007 was launched by Yvette Cooper, then Minister for Housing and Planning, on the 28th of March 2007. It set out some key recommendations to those taking or granting new or renewed leases. The code itself comprises of three sections: For the Landlord; a 10 point requirement guide in order for their lease to be compliant. For the Tenant; an explanation of the terms and 37 specific tips. A Model Heads of Terms, made available online. The Code for Leasing Business Premises in England and Wales 2007 is the result of collaboration between commercial property professionals and industry bodies representing both owners (Landlords) and occupiers (Tenants). These include such members as the Association of British Insurers, the British council for offices, the British Property Federation (BPF), the British Retail Consortium, the Federation of small Businesses, The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), The Law Society of England and Wales, and the Department for Communities and Local Government. It replaced the previous embodiment of the Code, published in April 2002. The Code is voluntary so occupiers should be aware that not all Landlords will choose to offer Code-compliant leases. The Government has felt the need to promote the Code with a continual threat of legislation if it is not adopted this time by the property industry. However the Government takes a keen interest in ensuring the property industry complies with this voluntary Code. Larger business operators are expected to conform to the Code as they have the resources to employ property professionals to act on their behalf. The Code appears to be more aimed at small business tenants seeking to offer guidelines, promoting fairness in commercial leases and aiming to protect small businesses, by ensuring they have the information available to negotiate the most suitable deal. Goals and objectives: Objective One: To investigate small business tenants. A number of questions will be put forward in order to gain information into areas such as, lease terms, tenant satisfaction, and tenant awareness of The Code for Leasing Business Premises in England and Wales 2007. Objective Two: To investigate landlords, how they operate with regard to small business tenants, and what is their view is on The Code for Leasing Business Premises in England and Wales 2007. Objective Three: To gain extensive knowledge into the views of the Chartered Surveyors of The Code, and how The Code for Leasing Business Premises in England and Wales 2007 affects their decisions when advising a client. Objective Four: To assess the primary research gained in objectives One, Two and Three, and discover how, or if decisions made by a chartered surveyor could indirectly affect a small business tenant. Ultimately the aim of this research is to establish that the introduction of The Code for Leasing Business Premises in England and Wales 2007 has had no influence upon small business properties and their tenants and as a result was unjustifiable. While the existing literature discusses the changes in the relatively new Code, there is little information regarding its actual impact upon the industry. Due to the little research done on the new 2007 lease code, this document is intended to gain background information and research on lease practice in the UK, using the Island of Portsea and surrounding areas to determine the amount of business properties and their tenants that have been affected. The only published document comparable to this research is applied to the previous 2002 code and is therefore now outdated. By gathering data using interviews, questionnaires, and exploring further information written on the topic in journals and articles, my aim is to gather sufficient evidence to establish whether my hypothesis is true or false. It is hoped that the research methodology set out in chapter three is adequate enough so as to create valuable research, which until now has not been documented. Chapter 2.Literature Review: Introduction A literature review sets out to critically analyse the current literature published on the subject and understand currently established views on the topic. Secondary research also provides direction to the primary research helping to identify further any unanswered questions. In order to understand the subject, one must first acquire an understanding of the historical nature of business leases in the UK, and why there appears to be a need for market intervention through lease codes. Lease Structure within the UK and its progression. Historical Lease Length: For the purpose of this dissertation, it is necessary to understand the historical nature of a business lease, how they are changing, and what normality in the current marketplace is. The institutional lease also known as the 25 year FRI (full repairing and insuring) lease with upward only rent reviews was standard issue through the 1970s and 1980s. The introduction of more volatile economic conditions led to a change as the longevity of the leases was deemed unrealistic (Lizieri, C., Gibson, V., Crosby, N., Ward, C., 1998). This type of lease has also been described as the backbone of property investment (Hamilton, M. Cheng Lim, L. McCluskey, W., 2006). Whilst the economic climate began to recover in 1995, the expectation would have been that a recovery in the economy and the property market would precipitate a return to the bargaining strengths of landlords and tenants prior to the recession and a return to the terms of occupation which prevailed at that time (Hamilton, M. Cheng Lim, L. McCluskey, W., 2006). However there was a contrasting view to this expectation and a number of reasons are given (Crosby, N., Gibson, V., Murdoch, S., 2002). Firstly, tenants who, after being introduced to more flexible terms were unwilling to return to the institutional lease. Secondly, new accounts procedures forced tenants to show leases on their balance sheet as a liability and therefore highlighted the fact that longer leases financially burdened the tenant in many cases. Research was conducted in 2006 that showed that occupiers are still shifting toward shorter leases in order to prevent themselves from being overexposed to risk. Shorter leases tend to meet the needs of occupiers functioning in a rapidly changing economic environment (Hamilton, M. Cheng Lim, L. McCluskey, W., 2006). 10.93 years was found to be the average lease length from January 2001 to March 2004, among 106 office leases taken in Birmingham, London, Manchester and Belfast. This would appear to prove a large departure from the institutional lease. However, this research does have its limitations. It remains unclear how large the offices used for the survey are. Larger offices are more likely to have tenants that require longer leases, mainly to justify for writing off fit-out and relocation costs (Dickenson, March 2007). If this is applied to this dissertation for example, the focus of the Code for Leasing Business Premises in England and Wales 2007 is upon small business properties and their tenants who are unlikely to have large fit-out costs. Upwards-Only Rent Reviews (UORRs): The UORR is A clause in a lease wherein at a defined given point a rent review will occur. When this arises the rent will either be fixed at either the current rent passing or the open market value, whichever is the highest. As a lease becomes shorter in length, any fluctuations in market conditions are less likely to affect corporate liability. Therefore the lease rent review clauses become increasingly insignificant. A survey conducted in June 2005 by the ODPM (Office of the Deputy Prime Minister) came to conclusion that they had strongly polarised views about whether or not the Government should legislate against UORRs. (Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, June 2005) The government has been considering a ban on UORRs for some time but has still not felt the need to act. A further survey conducted in 2007 by GVA Grimley and the CBI focused on the opinions of corporate tenants. The survey returned only a small majority (57%) in favour of banning them (Cooke, July 2007). Cooke conti nues to comment that firstly this is not a large enough majority to consider a ban, and secondly, the size and sector spread of the survey was significant and there is a recommendation of further research. Any moves to remove UORRs will have a major effect on the security as property as an investment. Cookes view is that as any legislation is unlikely to be retrospective, and therefore a two stage system will be in place, corporate occupiers would not reap any benefit for some time. (Cooke, July 2007). Contingent Liability: There was a strong vote in favour of removing contingent liability, with 83% voting for its abolition (Cooke, July 2007). This high figure suggests that many business occupiers are despondent with their current leases; however they are not forced to sign a lease with this agreement and as the research shows tenants are aware of the liability but appear to do nothing about it. It should be noted that the size of corporate tenants questioned in the research conducted by GVA Grimley is unknown and therefore may offer a poor sample of information for what is required in my research. The Code is positioned to aid smaller tenants who often are unable to afford professional property services. Cooke describes his opinion that corporate occupiers regard it as inequitable that, having assigned a lease to a third party and having received the landlords approval to the transaction, they are required to step back in because of the failure of the assignee several years later. (Cooke, July 2007) If this is a commonplace problem in the market, then this certainly gives good grounds for a new code. 2002 Code of Practice for Commercial Leases (E2): The second edition of the Code of Practice for Leases in England and Wales was published in 2002. Philip Freedman, one of the co-contributors to the 2007 code commented that Although it was felt there had been a significant move toward shorter leases, and lease terms had become more flexible, small business tenants were still poorly informed about property matters and landlords were not offering tenants sufficiently flexible lease terms to match their business needs(Freedman, 2006). Freedman continues to mention that the government was unsatisfied with the continued prominence of upward only rent reviews (UORRs) in longer leases, and was considering outlawing them. The Code introduced in 2002 was very different from its predecessor from 1995 that it replaced. There were no objectives or aims set out in the Code, instead, ten key recommendations to business leases were listed. The first three were to promote open negotiation between parties, and to recommend financial advice on costs of occupation. The other seven points cover particular aspects of a commercial lease (Neil Crosby et al. (2005). The paper Monitoring the 2002 Code of Practice for Commercial Leases, co-written by Neil Crosby at Reading University for the UK government was designed to measure in detail the impact of the 2002 Code. It is similar to my piece of research, although it is now outdated and obsolete for professional consultation. It does however show key research that provides evidence that the 2002 Code was unsuccessful and therefore required change. An interview survey was carried out with an extensive number of chartered surveyors, and also with solicitors involved with conveyance and lease contract negotiation. The perception of property professionals acting for clients in 2005 was noted as follows. Firstly, virtually all interviewees were aware of the 2002 code. Secondly it is clear that larger and institutional landlords are more likely to have knowledge of the code and smaller landlords may not. Thirdly, tenants are perceived to have no knowledge of the code unless they are large tenants with direct access to professional property services advice. The conclusion is that Most consider that the Code is having no influence at all on lease negotiations, although some of the agent interviewees regard it as having some small, indirect, influence. Only two interviewees, one surveyor and one solicitor, are actively and regularly using the Code when negotiating on behalf of tenants. The paper concludes that there is the perception among large commercial tenants that the lease structure system is unsatisfactory in the UK, even if they are unaware of the Code. International tenants appear to be more dissatisfied than their UK counterparts. The main reasons cited for dissatisfaction are the lease lengths, and the tenants lack of break clauses. The research methods used in this paper hold credit as the results were a catalyst for a code reform. It is highlighted that the Code is underperforming, and holds no or very little influence. The paper has been useful in developing my hypothesis as it gives a benchmark for success for the 2007 Code. The Last Chance to Get Things Right: The article titled the last chance to get things right written by Philip Freedman, comments on the shortcomings of the 2002 Code and gives specific direction as to changes that should be implemented in the new Code. The shortcomings are extremely valuable to my research because it shows direct areas in which the 2002 Code has been considered to fail and these areas should be focused upon when analysing the level of success of the 2007 Code. Firstly, Freedman sights that restrictions on subletting and assignments have not been relaxed in accordance with the Code. Landlords, familiar with the landlord and tenant act 1995, had in recent years been imposing detailed restrictions on assignments, most notable with the introduction of required authorised guarantee agreements (AGAs). Tenants under such agreements are limited in their possibilities for assignment as it is difficult to find a sufficient tenant. Furthermore, the liability still remains in an event that an assignee defaults on the lease payments. His views are backed up by the research by the 2005 report conducted at Reading University. This research found that most leases that had the option for assignment automatically required the tenant to enter into an AGA. Secondly, between the period of 2002 and 2005, the courts upheld a number of landlords rights to impose strict enforcement on lease clauses that require subletting to conform to specific requirements on rent or other terms(Freedman,2006). Freedman sights the case Allied Dunbar Assurance PLC V Homebase LTD [2002]. This would suggest that the courts are not working in unison with the views held by the Government that businesses require further protection from landlords. Freedman concludes, indicating that this is the last chance for the industry. A study into whether the new Code has influence or not would seem wholly relevant as it would provide knowledge on whether this last chance has been successful or not. Code for Leasing Business Premises in England and Wales 2007: After Yvette Cooper introduced the Code in March 2007, Geoff Le Pard considered the contents of the new Code. The new Code is more concise than the 2002 version. It is written in plain English and provides more authoritative guidance on lease terms (Le Pard (2007). The article, from which the quote above is taken, was released 3 days after the Code was introduced. While this is time to provide commentary on the new aspects of the Code, it is unable to provide any reliable prediction as to how this will affect the market in the long run. New aspects of interest that are assessed include firstly pricing options and rent reviews. Under the 2007 Code, landlords must state whether a choice of lease terms is available and propose rents for different lease terms (Le Pard (2007). Secondly, restrictions on assignment are discussed. One of the governments principle concerns is the inflexible assignment and subletting provisions in leases (Le Pard (2007). The article continues by commenting that the Code only allows the provision of an AGA agreement, established problem of the 2002 Code, when the assigned tenant is of a lower financial standing than the outgoing tenant. Thirdly Le Pard comments that the new Code insists Break Clauses should not be prevented by conditions that effectively make the break inoperable (Le Pard (2007). Certainly the three features of the 2007 Code that are described by Geoff Le Pard can be tested using primary research as to their influence. A Code that Lacks Strength: The reach of the new commercial lease code will be limited by the ability of landlords to opt out selectively (Martin, 2007). In this article, John Martin explains that the government and BPF believe that landlords who subscribe to the Commercial Landlords Accreditation Scheme (CLAS) will gain marketing benefits. Part of the scheme involves the landlords abiding by the 2007 commercial lease code (landlord code). If rules are broken then private and public reprimand can occur however, the landlord code value is watered down in the fact that landlords can opt out of any specific requirements of the Code (subject to explanation). The extent to which landlords sign to the CLAS is not described, however is supports the view that landlords do not want to adopt the Code. Martin also has an interesting view that the new guidance on assignments appears to be an attempt to revert to the pre-1996 position, without re-instating the concept of privity of contract (Martin 2007). The article is however written with an assumption that the Code will be endorsed by property professional and therefore will spread throughout the market quickly. Gap in the Knowledge: As previously mentioned, there is a wealth of information published commenting on the Code for Leasing Business Premises in England and Wales 2007. What is unknown is the influence this code is having on the industry if at all. Considering the Code is thought to be the last chance for reform prior to legislation, its performance should be reviewed to show whether legislation is necessary or not. After reviewing the literature in this chapter, a conclusion has been drawn that the Code is unnecessary. There is not sufficient research to prove this and there is therefore a gap in the knowledge. The next chapter sets out the methods in which the hypothesis in Chapter 1 will be tested. Introduction: This research was designed to test this hypothesis; The introduction of The Code for Leasing Business Premises in England and Wales 2007 has improved the position of a tenant when negotiating a new lease. This chapter discusses the research methods applied and ultimately lead to a comprehensive conclusion that will either reject or confirm the hypothesis. Research Methods: Traditionally, there are two different types of research. These are Quantitative research and qualitative research. Miles Huberman (1994). Quantitative Research: Quantitative Research is normally presented in Data, usually in the form of numbers and statistics. Theres no such thing as qualitative data. Everything is either 1 or 0 (Fred Kerlinger). The aim is to classify what statistics are important, count them and construct statistical models. One can then explain what is observed. Fred Kerlinger considers all research can be ultimately defined as quantitative as one could argue that all information can be displayed through binary (yes or no) questions and answers. Qualitative Research: Qualitative research is based upon alternatives to statistical data such as values and opinions. Donald Campbell holds the view that all research must stem from an initial qualitative theory. All research ultimately has a qualitative grounding (Donald Campbell) It can be extremely useful when there is little or no previous research on a topic, as it can unearth new views and theories on a subject. Donald Campbell considers all research stems from an initial qualitative study. Research Strategy: Secondary Research: This type of research relies on the information and research submitted by others. The advantages and disadvantages are shown in table 3.1 above. Before writing this report, many books, internet articles, journals magazine articles were consulted so a thorough understanding of the subject was known. It should be noted that as the Code in question, The Code for Leasing Business Premises in England and Wales 2007, was only introduced at the end of April in 2007 there is therefore limited published material on the subject. Literature Review: The literature used in Chapter 2 for the review is a form of secondary research, and while it shows the current knowledge on a topic, much of it is outdated and therefore unreliable. The literature review also highlighted the lack of material published regarding the lease codes in the UK. There are a number of magazine articles but there is only one academic report (Crosby et al. (2005)) that holds any significant value, but as stated it is outdated. Once the gap in the knowledge was identified from the literature review, it gave direction for a number of research questions to use in my primary research. Primary Research: This is research that compounds new information. The following two types of primary research were used by my study:- Small Business Tenant Questionnaire. Landlord Questionnaire. Semi-structured Interview with Chartered Surveyors. Tenant and Landlord Questionnaires: Target Audience: The first stage of primary research involved two separate questionnaire studies firstly to tenants, and secondly to landlords. The questions aimed at the subjects were influenced by the report from Reading University Monitoring the 2002 Code of Practice for Commercial Leases (Crosby et al. (2005)). Questions were asked with a final goal of contributing to the objectives and aims of the report and testing the validity of the hypothesis. The questionnaire provides an opportunity to understand the direct influence of the Code for Leasing Business Premises in England and Wales 2007 on tenants and landlords. Questionnaires were completed in either of two ways. It was established that it would be far easier to gain responses from landlords if it was via email and therefore this is how the 20 landlords were contacted and how they gave response. With regard to the tenant questionnaire, it was decided that a questionnaire would be delivered to a number of tenants. After two days, these would be collected and any uncompleted questionnaires would not be counted. A total of 30 business tenants were visited. Due to the data protection act, names of tenants or landlords remain anonymous and cover notes were addressed to the Manager. Sample: Due to the large number of tenants and landlords in England and Wales, it is necessary to sample the respondents. The sample method used is a form of random and cluster sampling combined. Normal cluster samples are used when the subject research matter is too large to measure. Normally certain areas would be subject to research instead of the whole country for example. Often in cluster sampling, the total population is divided into these groups (or clusters) and a sample of the groups is selected (Wikipedia, 2008). In my research, this was further randomised down into sample of particular clusters. Areas used for the research were Windsor, Bracknell and Reading. It was considered that 30 tenants and 12 landlords would be a sufficient sample to gain the required information without mak ng the research excessively impractical. Design and Content: Each of the two questionnaires were designed to be as clear as possible for the target individuals, and they also incorporate layman wording as to ensure each question is understood fully. The majority of questions asked utilised a multiple choice answer system. This enabled each paper to be completed with ease and also provide comparable data between different questionnaires. Copies of both Questionnaires including a covering letter for each questionnaire are included in Appendix B and C respectively. Pilot: It was felt necessary for a pilot copy of each questionnaire to be reviewed by a property professional prior to conduction of the survey. This was done for a number of reasons. Firstly the design of the questionnaire is reviewed to ensure it is easy to comprehend. Secondly, the wording is reviewed and changed if necessary. Thirdly organisation and the number of questions are reviewed. The pilot questionnaires were sent to a property professional Nigel Dight (Leslie G. Dight and Partners). It was decided after the pilot that a universal do you have any other comments to add, would be incorporated as a final question. This gives the opportunity for landlords or tenants in the subject research to add any qualitative information they feel important to the subject. Response Rate: Before each email was sent to landlords, a telephone call was made to ensure they were comfortable with the questionnaire. This ensured a high response rate. A covering letter (viewable in Appendix B) was also sent to emphasise the importance of the answers and how they help the research project. A response rate of 75% was achieved which was viewed as a success. A much lower response rate was expected from the tenant questionnaires; however, the 60% achieved was largely viewed as a success. It was expected to that ten respondents from each questionnaire would be achieved however this was exceeded. After this initial response it was decided therefore that no new respondents needed to be found as both questionnaires had exceeded response rate expectancy. Semi-structured Interview: Target Audience: Interviews were carried out with chartered surveyors who have extensive current and previous experience in both tenant and landlord representation during lease negotiations. It is important that each interviewee has experience of the market over the last twenty years in order to have a comprehensive view of how the market has changed, and how this has affected tenants. Appendix D gives a list of interview candidates. A semi-structured interview technique was used to gather information from chartered surveyors because they are likely to have a wealth of experience and knowledge on the topic. The interview provides the opportunity to show the indirect impact of the Code for Leasing Business Premises in England and Wales 2007 because, unlike the questionnaires, the interviewed surveyors are more likely to have a broader understanding of the mechanisms within the market. If the code is found to indirectly affect a business lease tenant, the surveyor is far more likely indicate this than the tenant themselves. Sample: Due to the large number of chartered surveyors in the UK it is not possible to interview them all. A random sample method is used to find suitable candidates for the interview process. It is also important the prospective candidates are vetted prior to the interview to ensure they have the relevant experience to answer the questions. Although only a small number of interviews took place, an attempt to provide a full spectrum of surveyors from the marketplace was achieved. One of the interviewees acts on behalf of large corporate clients, while another acts on behalf of smaller clients for example. It was viewed that only a small number of samples would be required as a predicted response rate was a high percentage. Design and Content: Appendix D includes a list of outline questions that should be posted to interviewees. Although only a guideline, these questions were designed to gain the core information required from the interview. In practice, further questions and discussions took place during the interview. Compared with the questionnaires, this provides further in depth answers and opinions. The estimated time of each interview was intended to be around 15 minutes. This was firstly conceived to be enough time to gain the required information. Secondly it was not so long as to discourage any prospective interviewees from taking part. In practice the interviews lasted for around 25 minutes, due to the expansion of the core questions, however this did not cause a problem. A full transcript of each interview can be viewed in appendix E. Two of the interviews were carried out via telephone interview as this provided the easiest was to lease with surveyors at some distance. One interview was carried out in person d ue to the close proximity of their office. The interview in person proved to be more successful as the interviewee seemed more focused on the questions. Response Rate: The response rate was 60% which was considered poor under the circumstances. A small number of surveyors were contacted with the initial view that all would provide an interview. The response rate did however fall between 60% and 100% which wa