Marketing and PR Handout

Taking a Masters in Business Administration degree means that you need to understand each and every aspect of the organization you work in.  Ã‚  Ã‚   Knowledge in Marketing and PR will equip you with the essential tools to make your own business or organization survive the competition.   Below are my insights from taking Marketing and PR course:1. Brand equity, which is the position that a product or company holds in the minds of the consumers is primary to creating the character and personality of your product.2. Branding integrates the overall strategies of your company or brand – advertising, marketing programs, customer service, public relations (Ochman, n.d.).   Make sure you give your brand a consistent positioning approach.3. Marketing is not just about offering discounts on coupons or giving away prizes in raffles.   It is about integrating effective tools to communicate with your market.4. Four Ps of marketing stand for Product, Price, Place and Promotion.   These determine the direction of your product, and integrate your programs to ensure consistency and synergy in your efforts (Arens, W., 2005).5. Market penetration strategies determine the total market potential, then divide that potential by the amount of product that is already sold or purchased (Berry, T., 2007).   If not done right, you may end up picking yourself on the wrong side of the road, with unjustifiable expenses and wasted efforts.6. Rewarding your loyal customers is a powerful tool nowadays to keep them coming back (Marketing Tricks for the Frugal Budget, 2003).   This gives rise to Relationship Marketing, ensuring that everything from customer service to after-sales service is going smoothly (Arens, W., 2005).7. Use discounts and promos sparingly.   Otherwise, people may think that your product is not good enough because they are always on sale (Marketing Tricks for the Frugal Budget, 2003).8. In Public Relations, you need to take care of your image to the pu blic, and equally important, to the media.   Otherwise, you risk yourself of being cast in the shadows of darkness, because media create the buzz for your product or company.9. The media coverage that you get through recommendations of editors, write-ups in columns and mentions in press releases is more powerful than advertising.   Utilize this as often and as effective as you can.10. Advertising is an effective tool to promote your product, which is why it does not come cheap (Arens, W., 2005).   You have to make sure that you pick the right medium for your product to reach the right market.ReferencesArens, W.   (2005).   Contemporary Advertising.   McGraw Hill, pp. 325-328.Berry, T. (2007).   Market Penetration Opportunity.   Retrieved May 8, 2007.Marketing Tricks for the Frugal Budget.   (2003).   Retrieved May 8, 2007 from https://businesstown.com/articles/cheap-marketing-tricks-that-work/Ochman, B.L. (n.d.).   Branding:   The Most Misunderstood Word in M arketing.   Retrieved May 8, 2007.

Food Web Case Study Essay

A food web is a type of graph that depicts the relationship between the prey and the predators, also known as a system of food chains and how one another are related. This can be better explained as a connection in a community. Food webs are important because it is a direct illustration of the relationships among certain species within a certain community. Right away the graph will reveal the type of species, what they interact with, the structure in which the environment they are located, and show the relations between each species. Because it is called a food web, the name has already shown that the relationship that will be represented will be a relationship concerning food. Within any given food web, there can very possibly be more than one food chain located inside of the actual food web itself. The different types of food webs will pertain specifically to that environment only. Ecological interactions determine flow of the food web. Food webs will vary from simple to complex dependent on the type of food web being viewed. Competition â€Å"Animals need air to breathe as a source of food, to eat to provide certain minerals to provide some of the body’s needs and to drink (BioTopic.com, 2014).† Because the needs vary from one species to another, there comes the need to compete for many things for the need to survive. Even if this means that the species themselves are considered part of the food web as a meal for a larger species. With not only the competition to survive to make it out alive through another day, there is the need to create a family and also find a safe place to live (BioTopic.com, 2014). Because these animals have mates to take care of, children to feed, and the need to protect what is theirs comes a whole new definition of the word competition. Many competitors within the food chain can at times be after the same types of food, searching for the same type of shelter can cause  issues between not only species, but the living organisms that thrive within these eco systems like plants. Plants are also in need of resources (BioTopic.com, 2014). Although their needs will differ from most animals, they are constantly in need of oxygen during daylight hours. Oxygen for plants is a source of nutrients and energy that allow them to grow and thrive. Resources that animals compete for (BioTopic.com, 2014) 1.Food 2.Water 3.Space 4.The opportunity to mate Resources that plants compete for (BioTopic.com, 2014) 1.The food that animals waste 2.Some plants are pollinated by animals 3.Water, Light, Minerals Food Webs Source web is a type of food web in which one or more types of prey are eaten by their predators and so forth up the food web. A community web will reveal a connection of who eats who. Energy flow web is a type of food web that will depict the energy amongst the consumer of the energy, and the source in which the energy is coming from. A Sink web is a type of web that illustrates this prey eating another prey, and this prey eating the next prey, and the next prey eating the next prey. Paleecological web will visualize the ecosystem showing pictures that depict all the way back to fossil. A functional web will resemble in look to that of the community web. It will show the relations between connections of predator/prey, energy flows, the smaller food web within the web, and a predictable pattern for what type of species need what types of food and natural resources. The most common of the food web are the community web and the functional web. They are the types of webs that most users are more familiar with in terms of what they are called and what they entail. Boxicity Tropic Status Trophic levels depict how the producers, carnivores, and the herbivore have similar yet different types of feeding positions. The First level consist of the plants, the second level consist of the herbivores, carnivores are definitely in the third level and sometimes the fourth. When one species or organism is located in the food web, they are ultimately participating in food transfers. Which is food chain going from species to species, or organism to organism. Rose Plant > Aphids > Beetle > Chameleon > Hawk (Bcb.com, 2014). The example listed here is a great example to use because it shows one organism eating another. Real Life Applications †¢Animals that fertilize the grass. †¢Grass that uses sunlight to grow †¢Animals that eat grass, and in turn produce milk, meat, or their fur coat. †¢I use myself for my last example. I am a human being, located within my own food web. I eat food that come animals. I need the oxygen that omits from trees and plants to survive. I go to work every day to provide for my family so that I can feed them. When I am applying for a job I am in competition with others that are looking to take care of their families, therefore we are in competition with each other. I consume the natural resources that my eco system has to offer. I eat animals that in turn may eat other animals. The image above is also a real world depiction that relates a directed multi graph that is the food web to a real world scenario to better understand the relations in a mathematical way. References Bcb.com. Tropic levels. Retrieved on April 14. 2014. Retrieved from: http://www.bcb.uwc.ac.za/sci_ed/grade10/ecology/trophics/troph.htm Biotopics.com. Competition. Retrieved on April 14, 2014. Retrieved From: http://www.biotopics.co.uk/newgcse/Competition.html Figures Retrieved From: www.googleimages.com file:///C:/Users/Green/Downloads/mth221_r2_food_webs_case_study.pdf McGuigan, Robert A. 13 Food Webs. Retrieved on April 14, 2014. Retrieved from: http://highered.mcgraw-hill.com/sites/dl/free/0073383090/299355/Apps_Ch13.pdf

Airline Customer Relationship Management Tool

Existing System b. proposed System 3. Feasibility Report a. Technical Feasibility b. Operational Feasibility c. Economical Feasibility 4. System Requirement Specification Document a. Overview b. Modules Description c. Process Flow d. SDLC Methodology e. Software Requirements f. Hardware Requirements 5. System Design a. DFD b. E-R diagram c. UML d. Data Dictionary 6. Technology Description 7. Coding 8. Testing Debugging Techniques 9. Output Screens 10. Reports 11. Future Enhancements 2. Conclusion 13. Bibliography * INTRODUCTION The Main Objective of this System is to design a system to accommodate the needs of customers. This application helps a customer to know about the flight’s information and can reserve seats throughout the globe irrespective of the location. This is a computerized system to make seats reservations, keep ticket bookings and availability details up-to-date. This web based system provides all flight’s information, availability of flights, availabili ty of seats. It contains information about pilots, air hostess and airport information. It also provides time schedules for different flights and source, destination details. It provides cost of tickets and enquiry details. Features of the project Reduces the complexity present in the manual system and saves time. 1. Users can access the required data easily. 2. It maintains accurate information. 3. Provides instantaneous updated information to all users. 4. Communication is fast and clear and avoids misunderstandings. It is a computerized system to make room reservations and keep room bookings and availability of details up-to-date System Analysis Purpose of the System This web based system provides all flight’s information, availability of flights, availability of seats. It contains information about pilots, air hostess and airport information. It also provides time schedules for different flights and source, destination details. It provides cost of tickets and enquiry details. Existing System * This system doesn’t provide register the multiple Flights * This system doesn’t provide online help to the public Proposed System The development of this new system contains the following activities, which try to develop on-line application by keeping the entire process in the view of database integration approach. * This system provide online help to the public * This system provide agents registration and book the bulk tickets * This system provide late running flights information before 3 hours * Online status of the tickets must be provided in real time Feasibility Study TECHNICAL FEASIBILITY Evaluating the technical feasibility is the trickiest part of a feasibility study. This is because, at this point in time, not too many detailed design of the system, making it difficult to access issues like performance, costs on (on account of the kind of technology to be deployed) etc. A number of issues have to be considered while doing a technical analysis. i) Understand the different technologies involved in the proposed system Before commencing the project, we have to be very clear about what are the technologies that are to be required for the development of the new system. i) Find out whether the organization currently possesses the required technologies * Is the required technology available with the organization? * If so is the capacity sufficient? For instance – â€Å"Will the current printer be able to handle the new reports and forms required for the new system? † OPERATIONAL FEASIBILITY Proposed projects are beneficial only if they can be turned into information systems that will meet the organizations operating requirements. Simply sta ted, this test of feasibility asks if the system will work when it is developed and installed. Are there major barriers to Implementation? Here are questions that will help test the operational feasibility of a project: * Is there sufficient support for the project from management from users? If the current system is well liked and used to the extent that persons will not be able to see reasons for change, there may be resistance. * Are the current business methods acceptable to the user? If they are not, Users may welcome a change that will bring about a more operational and useful systems. * Have the user been involved in the planning and development of the project? Early involvement reduces the chances of resistance to the system and in * General and increases the likelihood of successful project. Since the proposed system was to help reduce the hardships encountered. In the existing manual system, the new system was considered to be operational feasible. ECONOMICAL FEASIBILITY Economic feasibility attempts 2 weigh the costs of developing and implementing a new system, agai nst the benefits that would accrue from having the new system in place. This feasibility study gives the top management the economic justification for the new system. A simple economic analysis which gives the actual comparison of costs and benefits are much more meaningful in this case. In addition, this proves to be a useful point of reference to compare actual costs as the project progresses. There could be various types of intangible benefits on account of automation. These could include increased customer satisfaction, improvement in product quality better decision making timeliness of information, expediting activities, improved accuracy of operations, better documentation and record keeping, faster retrieval of information, better employee morale. System Requirement Specification Modules Description No of Modules The system after careful analysis has been identified to be presented with the following modules: The Modules involved are 1. Admin 2. Flight 3. Reservation SDLC METHDOLOGIES This document play a vital role in the development of life cycle (SDLC) as it describes the complete requirement of the system. It means for use by developers and will be the basic during testing phase. Any changes made to the requirements in the future will have to go through formal change approval process. SPIRAL MODEL was defined by Barry Boehm in his 1988 article, â€Å"A spiral Model of Software Development and Enhancement. This model was not the first model to discuss iterative development, but it was the first model to explain why the iteration models. As originally envisioned, the iterations were typically 6 months to 2 years long. Each phase starts with a design goal and ends with a client reviewing the progress thus far. Analysis and engineering efforts are applied at each phase of the project, with an eye toward the end goal of the project. The steps for Spiral Model can be generalized as follows: * The new system requirements are defined in as much details as possible. This usually involves interviewing a number of users representing all the external or internal users and other aspects of the existing system. * A preliminary design is created for the new system. * A first prototype of the new system is constructed from the preliminary design. This is usually a scaled-down system, and represents an approximation of the characteristics of the final product. A second prototype is evolved by a fourfold procedure: 1. Evaluating the first prototype in terms of its strengths, weakness, and risks. 2. Defining the requirements of the second prototype. 3. Planning an designing the second prototype. 4. Constructing and testing the second prototype. * At the customer option, the entire project can be aborted if the risk is deemed too great. Risk factors might involved development cost overruns, operating-cost miscalculation, or an y other factor that could, in the customer’s judgment, result in a less-than-satisfactory final product. * The existing prototype is evaluated in the same manner as was the previous prototype, and if necessary, another prototype is developed from it according to the fourfold procedure outlined above. * The preceding steps are iterated until the customer is satisfied that the refined prototype represents the final product desired. * The final system is constructed, based on the refined prototype. * The final system is thoroughly evaluated and tested. Routine maintenance is carried on a continuing basis to prevent large scale failures and to minimize down time. The following diagram shows how a spiral model acts like: Fig 1. 0-Spiral Model ADVANTAGES * Estimates(i. e. budget, schedule etc . ) become more relistic as work progresses, because important issues discoved earlier. * It is more able to cope with the changes that are software development generally entails. * Software engineers can get their hands in and start woring on the core of a project earlier. SOFTWARE REQUIREMENT AND HARDWARE REQUIREMENT Software Requirements Operating System:Windows XP Professional or Above. Languages:C#. NET, ASP. NET Data Base:SQL Server. Web Server: IIS 5. 0 OR Above. Hardware Requirements Processor:Pentium IV Hard Disk:40GB RAM:512MB or more

Problem Solving Activities Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Problem Solving Activities - Essay Example ESPN is the largest source of money for Disney and  is believed to be the worlds most valuable media asset. According to www.forbes.com , the company is worth more than $40 billion as of 2012. Therefore one may beg to ask where all this money for ESPN comes from. According to bloomberg.com, the companys revenue hit a $9 billion in 2012 above any other cable network in the world and was projected to hit $11 billion as of the end of 2013 due to increased subscriber charges. Apart from being a sports channel, the company also broadcasts news relating to sporting events and its websites gives fixtures for the next sporting events. This ensures that its customers do not miss scheduled sporting events. One of the major sources for ESPNs money is the customer subscriptions. This is executed worldwide where the moment cable TV customers access the channel, the provider gets revenue which is paid by the customer. For example, many DSTV subscribers are able to watch ESPN at different channels through customer subscriptions, the company gets substantial revenue which enables it manage its day to day operations. Monthly subscriptions make up the largest source of revenue for ESPN standing at almost 60% of the total revenue for the company. In 2012, the company charged the cable TVs the largest amount of money per subscriber regardless of whether the subscriber watched the channel or not. At 4.6 dollars per subscriber, it was the highest in US and the charges continued to increase by up to 17.9% in 2013 meaning that the money generated will continue to increase for 2013. The other source of money for ESPN comes from advertising. In advertising, the company has up to three avenues for making advertising money. These are digital advertising, magazine advertising and television advertising. Of these, television advertising is expected to net up to $4 billion in 2013 the largest share, followed by digital adverts at 700

Followership Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Followership - Essay Example The author points out that leaders and followers have a symbiotic relationship. According to the author, â€Å"Today’s followers are tomorrow’s leaders† (Frisina 2005) Leaders ought to practice democratic leadership that strengthens the relationship with the followers. The author distinguishes the value of communication to the four types of generations (veterans, baby boomers, Generation X, and Generation Y). According to the author, employees in Generation Y thrive on extrinsic motivation. For example, a young nurse would most likely be tensed and have minimal experience in attending to her duties. If the supervisor provides instant gratification and rewards the nurse, she would be extrinsically motivated to work. This is unlike the veteran and baby boomers that have the experience and have achieved job satisfaction. This category of employees thrives on intrinsic motivation and job security. Different generations have different characteristics. For example, a veteran may find it easier to work in the office for the entire working hours. On the other hand, an employee from generation Y would prefer doing field work for the entire working hours. It is important to delegate jobs depending on the general characteristics of the respective generation. The most important aspect of communication is the mode of delivering information. All the four generations prefer different modes of communication. Veterans would be more comfortable with face-to-face interactions while employees from both Generations X and Y would prefer communication backed by technology. For example, a healthcare facility would open up a page on social media to reach out to the younger generation. On the other hand, veterans would prefer to visit the facility physically for

Innovative Approaches to Corporate Management Essay

Innovative Approaches to Corporate Management - Essay Example Innovative approaches are assessed based on its impact upon its profitability. Through implementing strategic management approaches in ones company, the need for customer satisfaction will be met, not only locally but world wide. Globalization of corporations evolved and exist for many reasons. There could be a need to follow the buying trends of consumers. Another is to meet the demand of customers. In todays business field,there is a rapid emergence of global buyers and sellers. Through the help of the latest technologies, communications, wire and money transfers, receiving of payments and any other activities are made possible regardless of distance, race, and currency. devising, implementing and improving a quality management system (QMS). (PCL - Petts Consulting Ltd) This model of a quality management system approach acknowledge the facts that quality results are achieved by producing a company manual, complete with work procedures and work instructions, proper recording and keeping of quality records and tracking of inputs and outputs. The HACCP System is a systematic approach to the identification, assessment of risk and severity, and control of biological, chemical and physical hazards associated with a particular food production process or practice. (Cianci, 2000) When speaking of HACCP, it is always associated with food safety. By using and by being certified with this system, the customers of the company are always assured of the safe processing of food. Corporate Social Responsibility CSR is about how companies manage the business processes to produce an overall positive impact on society. (Baker, 2006) It is the balance between the

Assignment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 80

Assignment - Essay Example The disease is also causes fever, and red skin-spots that later turn black, thus the name â€Å"Black Death†. The disease reached Europe through The Black Sea in October 1347 when 12 Genoese trade ships arrived at Messina’s Sicilian port. The Genoese ships’ passengers on board were already plague-infected. The strategic location of China as one of the world’s significant trading nations facilitated the spread of the Black Death into Europe and Western Asia. The Black Death rapidly spread in â€Å"Europe from Italy, France, Spain, Portugal, England, Germany, Scandinavia, Norway, Bergen, Iceland, to northwestern Russia.†3 The medieval society was tremendously influenced by the Black Death. To begin with, there was starvation in the villages because the laborers died. The men who were supposed to plough fields died. The lack of labor also affected the harvesting, and livestock farming. In the urban areas, the effects of the Black Death were directly proportional to the impacts in the rural areas. A number of people migrated from the urban areas to the rural areas because it was believed that the fleas causing the Black Death was common in the urban areas. The urban areas suffered lack of food because the primary suppliers of food, who were the surrounding villages, could not supply adequate food. The loss of labor through deaths led to the lords resorting to sheep farming, as opposed to earlier grain farming. There was also shortage of commodities like bread because of the decline in grain farming. The prices of food in the urban areas skyrocketed because of the inflation. The inflation resulted into workers demanding for better pay, leading to the 1381’s Peasants Revolt in Europe when the landlords were hesitant to heed to the peasants’ demands.4 There were huge disruptions in the medieval world because of the Black Death. The Black Death led to the establishment of Feudal law restricting the movement of peasants, unless authorized by

Project Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words - 5

Project Management - Essay Example d like a good idea at the time.† In fact, says Mike Peterson, Executive Manager of PriceWaterHouse, many organisations have difficulty turning their business ideas into reality. So, project management is the art of directing and coordinating human and material resources throughout the life of a project by using modern management techniques to achieve predetermined objectives of scope, cost, time, quality, and participation satisfaction. This topic â€Å"Project management† considers practices in project management within local Government, and Conceptual Model of Organisation, Organisation’s measures are provided with project management. Project management helps to develop various applications for local Government, Banking system, helps to provide IT services including operating a large wide area network, generating government statistic, helps to plan and draft various Government initiatives and policy. This project provides conceptual Model of Organisation with the descriptions of two models Price Water House. These days, the traditional measures of a project’s success extend well beyond â€Å"On time, on budget, and to specifications† to include such criteria as â€Å"Delivery of anticipated benefits, engagement of stakeholders, and organizational adoption.† Easy to say, of course, but it is hard to do in practice. In project management, the metrics of on time, on budget, fit for purpose, and they are dependent variables. For example: a decision to cut cost (budget) will shorten the work (time) allowed to complete the project and (potentially) reduce the quality of the work. It may seem obvious, but any project undertaken by a company should be driven by business objectives; projects that do not clearly advance the aims of the company should simply not be undertaken. Many organisations review their business aims on a regular basis and adjust them for a variety of reasons. The review and approval of projects should be fully integrated into this process. The

Personal Reflection Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Personal Reflection - Coursework Example Therefore, having been fully equipped with theoretical knowledge on this aspect, I will put to task this knowledge in my career, as well as in everyday life when faced with situations that might require the application of such knowledge. This course has enabled me to experience significant personal growth and helped me to gain important skills that regard to the program. This is important for me in my professional as well as everyday personal life. I have had access to and read different reading material which bear important knowledge on health promotion and disease prevention, as well as development of programs for various target populations. In addition, the various assignments that I have been subjected to throughout the course have been instrumental in helping master and acquire new information on the area of disease prevention and health promotion. Therefore, I will be able to utilise this knowledge in developing programs that aim at disease prevention and health promotion at different levels in society. Apart from the knowledge imparted in me, different activities that I have undertaken in this course have helped me develop various important skills. First, I have improved on my researching skills. The various assignments I have done in this course have required me to do wide research in order to come up with a good paper. Researching on the internet as well as other literature in the print form has highly sharpened my research skills. This is important in my profession. There is wide knowledge and information on various topics today, either in the internet or physical library. Therefore, it is important for one to have good research skills, so that they can choose and utilise only the relevant and valid knowledge. Therefore, this remains an important skill that I will utilise even in future. The course

No topic Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 5

No topic - Essay Example Further, John is found to have a good knowledge of the issue of locally grown and ecologically grown products. In the case of the former, he explains his concerns over the use of pesticides in products that are locally produced and also tries to compare it with the latter in terms of a number of issues such as refrigeration, pesticide use, irradiation, antibiotics etc. further, his extensive use of results from various research studies clearly highlights the depth of knowledge and insight that the writer possess in the subject. John starts the discussion with the simple expression – ‘who wants to pesticide residue?’. By doing so, he has also taken into account the issue of resources such as oil and also the time gap between production and supply to the department store. The central point of the discussion does however not limit itself to the issue of pesticides alone. Additionally, it also tries to convince the user that another aspect that consumers look for when buying the product is the value for ‘taste’. John has clearly put forward his findings of food being ecologically rich but deprived of essential taste on account of being refrigerated and transported across long distances. John has further appealed to the audience to not judge ecologically grown products on the basis of the process that they undergo during production, but to also think move ahead from thinking from a consumer perspective to a more closer look from the health aspect. He argues that despite the high preference for the way products are grown, it is also important to consider its freshness and the extent to which it works well for the body upon consumption. John has clearly pointed out the difficult position faced by huge departmental chains such as Wal-Mart that has been facing a backlash since its decision to offer a higher proportion of organic products. John uses the information obtained from several researchers such as Joan

Solitary Confinement and what it does to Your Mind Essay Example for Free

Solitary Confinement and what it does to Your Mind Essay Try picturing this; you are locked in this cell for 23 hours a day. The cell is small about 6 feet by 8 feet. In the cell there is a steel toilet, a sink built in the top. There is also a steel bed with a very thin matress.There is small shelf for some of your personal items, and a desk hanging off the wall without a chair. There is a window that is about 5 inches wide and about 4 feet tall, but you cant see out of it. Its made of fog clouded glass. The window is also covered with steel with little holes. What Im describing is a cell in a section of a prison called solitary confinement. While prisoners are in solitary confinement they are forced to be in this tiny cell for 23 hours a day. They are only allowed to come out for recreation five times a week for one hour. Their rec in a cage. They are allowed to take three showers a week, and it can only be for five minutes. Solitary confinement is the confinement of a prisoner in a cell or other place in which he or she is completely isolated from others. In my opinion Solitary confinement is barbaric, and does more harm than it does justice. These criminals are being released back into their neighborhoods after being locked up with no human contact for years. Solitary confinement has been around since the 19th century and mental instability has been linked to solitary confinement since the 1860s. Prison records from the Denmark institute during 1870-1920 shows that staff noticed inmates were showing signs of mental illness while in isolation, revealing that this persistent problem has been around for decades. Solitary confinement was developed as a humane alternative. In 1970, the Quackers built Walnut Street Jail in Philidelphia with a, â€Å"Revolutionary and too many humane purpose. The jail was meant to punish and reform. Walnut Street is known as the Birthplace of the modern prison system. There are two types of solitary confinement that are commonly used today. One type is called disciplinary segregation. This is when youre in solitary for a week or two for doing something like stealing a cellmate’s radio. Another type of solitary confinement is known as admistrative segregation. This segregation is used when inmates are deemed a risk to the safety of other inmates or even prison staff. When youre in administrative segregation you can be isolated for month’s even years. In my opinion Solitary Confinement can ruin someone’s mental and their life. Solitary confinement used to be when prisoners would get thrown in the whole, and stay there for a couple of days. Now prisoners are in solitary confinement for years. Just imagine yourself locked in a room with just a bed for years. Would you still be sane? I dont think anyone would come out of that the same person they were before they entered into solitary confinement. Solitary confinement has been recognized as difficult to withstand. Psychological stressors such as isolation can be as clinically distressing as physical torture. But ironically U.S prisons have increasingly embraced solitary confinement to punish and control difficult or dangerous prisoners. The prisoners live with extensive surveillance and security controls, the absence of ordinary social interaction, abnormal environmental stimuli, with sometimes just three to five hours a week of recreation alone in caged enclosure. They only have little, if any educational, vocational, or other activities. Isolation can be psychologically harmful to anybody, and any prisoner. The effects of solitary confinement can have a very strong impact on prisoners that already have a mental disorder. Suicides occur more often in the isolation sections of the jails. Being isolated for a long period of time takes a toll on your mental state. Many prisoners have said they dont know how to interact with other human beings after being in isolation. In 2007, researchers at the University of Washington reported that prisoners released directly from super max prisons into the community have committed new crimes sooner than prisoners who have been released from segregation back into general population for several months before being released. After being locked up in solitary confinement some prisoners find I hard to socialize and suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder. Some have said they can be around people and still feel alone. Some inmates have reported that have emotional breakdowns, and don’t know why. One prisoner I read about named Anthony Graves said, â€Å"That solitary confinement is the worst inhumane treatment to a man.† After someone has been locked away in a tiny cell for 23 hours I don’t know how people can think that wouldn’t have a negative effect on someone. Previously healthy prisoners have developed clinical symptoms usually associated with psychosis or severe affective disorders â€Å"including all types of psychiatric morbidity† Many have committed suicide. Individuals do vary in how well they can deal with living in isolation, however. For prisoners with pre-existing mental or emotional disorders, living without normal human interaction, physical and mental activity and stimulation can aggravate their symptoms to levels equivalent to torture. In one complaint filed against the Connecticut Department of Correction in August 2003, social isolation and sensory deprivation drove some prisoners to lash out by swallowing razors, smashing their heads into walls or cutting their flesh. I read an article about Mississippi prison. In this article it talked about how at one point in time the inmates kept in solitary confinement for up to 23 hours each day, allowed out only in shackles and escorted by guards, they were restless and angry made more so by the excrement-smeared walls, the insects, the dirty food trays and the mentally ill inmates who screamed in the night, conditions that a judge had already ruled unacceptable. So it was not really surprising when violence increased in 2007: an inmate stabbed to death with a homemade spear that May; in June, a suicide; in July, another stabbing; in August, a prisoner killed by a member of a rival gang. After all of this happened instead of the prison tightening stricter restrictions the y loosened them. They allowed the prisoners out longer. They built a basketball court, and a group dining area. They set up rehabilitation programs, and allowed the prisoners to work towards greater privileges. In response to these changes the Mississippi prison atmosphere changed. The prisoners were better behaved, and the violence went down. I read an article about a man named Daud Tulam, who spent 18 years in isolation at the New Jersey State prison. He spent 23 hours a day alone in in a cell no bigger than a bathroom, and he had one hour in a concrete exercise yard. Tulman was sent to isolation because prison officers caught him trying to attack another prison officer. After being in isolation for 18 years Tulman has trouble making small talk. Tulman doesn’t engage in conversation even after being out of jail. Tulman is taking a welding class, and he often hides in the back of the class. When the teacher looks at his work, he doesn’t even make eye contact, but just looks at the floor. Tulman has lost all his social skills. I read another article about a correctional officer named Gary Harkins, who worked in a prisons isolation unit for 25 years. Before reading this article I never even considered the effect isolation could have on the workers. Gary worked for Oregon State Penitentiary. In the article he states that he didnt really understand how much stress he was under. At night Harkins would dream about his work, he felt like he couldnt get away from his job. He worked in giant, windowless, gray prisons, and it would be months until he would get to see the sun. He was in the isolation unit for 12 hours a day. The prisoners and officers didn’t interact like they interact if they were in general population. Harkins began to feel trapped as if he were one of the prisoners. I watched documentary called Lockup, and it featured an inmate named Bobby Ray Gilbert known as snake who spent 19 years in admistrative segregation. Gilbert was convicted of robbery, assault, escape and two counts of murder. Gilbert expressed in the documentary that being in isolation changes the way you think. He said he day dreams about blowing the prison up and killing everybody in it. During the documentary Gilbert attempted to starve himself to death after he found out he was going to be transferred to a prison close to home. I watched another documentary about Solitary Confinement. In this documentary it featured an Inmate by the name of Jusue Gonzales. In this documentary you can see how all Gonzales does is walk back and forth. He said that he can actually see imprints in the floor, where another inmate was doing the same things he’s doing. In this documentary Gonzales expresses that it hurts being locked up in that cell. He said sometimes he just cries. In this documentary the prison guards say that the prisoners are so desperate for human contact that they will do something negative just to get a reaction. These inmates will go to extremes just to get some human contact. Humans depend on other humans for survival. So when there is no type of human contact, these prisoners feel all alone. They start to feel helpless. As I stated before I think that solitary confinement is UN lawful and doesnt do any good. I think that solitary confinement should be banned, or at least be used for up to 2 days. When I hear of inmates being in solitary confinement for years just sound crazy. I know I couldnt last being locked in my room for an hour. When someone is locked away in a tiny cell for 23 hours out of the day, it’s really rare they come out sane. I think as a society we need to find other alternatives to really rehabilitate these individuals. Solitary Confinement is no longer working. The conditions are way too inhumane. In my opinion solitary confinement is just creating animals. You are leaving these angry men and woman in a tiny cell with little to no human contact for 23 hours out of a day. Do you really expect someone to come out rehabilitated and ready to do well? No, they are just going to come out of jail angry and bitter, and most likely end back up in Solitary Confinement. Work Cited Ball, B. (2012, Oct 31).What life is like in solitary confinement at north carolina’s central prison. McClatchy-Tribune Business News. 1-10 21 Oct 2012. Website. Solitary Confinement. Wikipedia 1-6. 10 Oct 2012. Website Sullivan, Laura. (2006). In U.S Prisons Thousands Spend Years in Isolation. 1-3. 21 Oct 2012. Website. Sullivan, Laura. (2006). Making it on the outside after decades in solitary. 1-6. 21 Oct 2012. Website. Sullivan, Laura. (2006). Hear Harkins Tell his story. 1-3. 21 Oct 2012 Website. Weir, Kirsten. (2012). Alone in the hole, Vol 43, No.5, page 54. 21 Oct 2012. Website.

Philosophy of Human Nature Essay Example for Free

Philosophy of Human Nature Essay Evil can be used in two ways- when someone has done evil and when someone has suffered evil. Since God is good, God does no moral evil; however, because God is just, God punishes the wicked and thus causes the evil of punishment. People are the cause of their own evildoing. Furthermore, because learning is good a thing, we do not learn evil. It is people’s inordinate desires that drive their evildoings. There are two laws- eternal law and temporal law. Both laws are good and guarantee people to live perfectly. To live perfectly and well, we need to know that we are alive, that we live with reason and understanding. And when the impulses of the soul are guided by reason, a person is perfectly ordered- eternal law. However, it is possible that the reason or mind does not rule. According to Augustine, this can only happens if a person’s own will and free choice make the mind a companion of cupidity. It is up to us to decide whether we want out will to be good or bad, and whether we desire things we can lose or we can’t lose. Thesis (What is the central point of the reading? Use no more than three sentences. ): Augustine claims that people do evil by the free choice of our will. Your questions So if God is all good and omnipotent, then why will God allow anyone to do evil by the free choice of their will? If we are images of God, and God is all good and omnipotent, shouldn’t we be all good and not act in ways that conflicts with God’s image?

The Abc Service Agency Tourism Essay

The Abc Service Agency Tourism Essay This plan was developed with broad involvement and guidance from the Board of Directors and staff. The Strategic Planning Committee included seven board members and four staff on the management team. This Committee including several past presidents of the board met twice to reflect on the mission, vision, core operating values and assumptions underlying the organizations approach to its work. These meetings set the stage for a work session of the full board during which the organizations strategic direction was defined. The staff helped coordinate the planning process and provided important support and analysis to complete this plan. The ABC Service Agency began in 1961 as a volunteer parent support group. Today the organization provides supports and services annually to nearly 2,000 children and adults with disabilities and their families, and is one of the countys largest employers. Its assistance is designed to support individuals and their families from birth through the senior years. The Agency services include residential services and support job placement and support, planned relief for the caregivers of children and adults with disabilities, social activities, and vocational training. The Agency also offers information and referral services, and works to educate community. 3 Direction and Results The Agency strategic direction and goals included in this plan are The Agencys response to its understanding of what its customers value most about the organization, and current opportunities and challenges for offering a high quality system of support in the community for people with disabilities. The five-year period of this strategic plan will be a time of assessing and deepening With a fresh perspective on its mission, understanding what it does well, and the environment in which it operates, The Agency will pursue the following strategic direction: 1. Agency will review and deepen its existing direct supports and services over time to ensure that they are state-of-the art for working effectively with children and adults with disabilities. 2. Agency will further assess consumer and community needs to identify gaps or needed shifts in service delivery. 3. Agency will take a leadership role in working with a range of providers to identify and meet the needs of children and adults with disabilities. 4. Agency will explore the feasibility of expanding the organizations visibility in the community and making greater use of volunteers. 5. The Agency will emphasize building its discretionary financial resources to invest in providing quality services. 4 Set goals The following goals for The Agency over the next five years are the organizations response to the important issues identified in the environmental scan that was completed as part of the strategic planning process. These goals provide a roadmap for fulfilling the strategic direction. 5 Delivery of services The Agency will provide model supports for people with disabilities and their families, either directly or through partnerships with or referrals to other service providers in the following areas: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ work week opportunities (e.g. employment and day supports) à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Recreation and leisure activity à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Residential support (e.g. community living and participation) à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Family support and education Note this is a sample plan and is not intended to refer to any particular organization. 6 Human Resources The Agency will develop a stable, highly qualified and motivated workforce that actively delivers the organizations mission. 7 Resource Development The Agency will be a highly visible, well-respected, non-profit organization that attracts increased numbers of volunteers and higher levels of contributions to support operations and the endowment fund. Successful implementation of this strategic plan will result in more quality supports and services delivered to consumers, The ultimate result It is about changing community conditions that make full community life possible for every person. 8 Organization of the Strategic Plan This plan has two purposes. First, it presents the most comprehensive compilation of the plan and its component parts. Second, it is a reference guide for strategic planning. At the beginning of each section a box includes a definition of the component part. There are a few footnotes with additional helpful tips about how The Agency can use the information in the plan. In the future 8.1 Company Vision Vision statement describes the organization in the somewhat distant future twenty to 30 years. Components of the vision statement may include: 1) how big is the reach or scope of the work? 2) What is the organization doing? What is its role? 3) What does the organization itself look like? 4) Who are biggest partners? 5) What are the major sources of funding? It may also include major external context or assumptions that will influence this vision. 9 20-Year Vision for the Agency 9.1 In The Context In the year 2025, greater acceptance and full inclusion by the community, improved services and support and more prevalent and helpful technology will add to the quality of life for children and adults with disabilities. At the same time, because of population growth, the aging of the population, and higher incidences of multiple diagnoses, the needs of people with disabilities and their families will remain extensive and varied. Finally, people with disabilities and their families will control more of the resources and decisions about who provides them with help and support. 10 Role and Program Services The Agency is the leader in identifying needs and bringing together all kinds of resources and services for all children and adults with disabilities and their families in the county to support full long-term community inclusion and participation. Specifically The Agency: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Leads a collaboration of providers and community organizations and programs à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Directly provides cutting-edge, model services that meet identified gaps à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Collaborates with and makes referrals to other high-quality service providers à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Leads many advocacy efforts to ensure services are provided either by The Agency or other providers. Note this is a sample plan and is not intended to refer to any particular organization. 11 Funding Sources While government contracts are still a significant source of funding, The Agency has a robust and innovative fundraising program earning resources from private sources including individuals and businesses. 12 Company Mission Achieving full community life for children and adults with disabilities one person at a time. The Agency introduces a new sharper mission statement in this strategic plan. This statement reflects two dimensions, they are: Achieving means insuring that individuals with disabilities have the right combination of support and opportunity to experience their own individual potential. Full community life means the opportunity for every individual with disabilities to actively participate with their family, friends, co-workers and other valued relationships in creating a life that is joyful and fulfilled. 13 Core Operating Values Core Operating Values are the fundamental values or ideals at the heart of the organization. They articulate ideals that the organization aspires to hold itself accountable for and offer guidance about how the organization behaves in carrying out its mission. The following core operating values influence the culture and public image of The Agency Caring Attitude The Agency demonstrates compassionate support and concern for people with disabilities and their families Note this is a sample plan and is not intended to refer to any particular organization. Responsiveness The Agency finds solutions that meet the needs and preferences of people with disabilities and their families through direct service or referrals to other providers. Respectfulness The Agency honours the choices of people with disabilities, encouraging each person to take control over his/her own life, and helps to shape these based on what is important to each consumer. Individualized Support -Agency knows that peoples needs vary significantly and can change over time; Diversity The Agency understands that people with disabilities are part of all races, ethnicities and religions; Integrity and Accountability The Agency has the highest level of integrity in its administrative, service, and outreach activities; we tie these activities directly to our mission, and we maintain and report our records accurately. State of the Art Practices -The Agency aims for excellent, high quality, state-of the-art approaches that people with disabilities and their families can always count on to be there. Partnerships The Agency works with a wide variety of partners and advocates for quality service by all partners. Advocacy The Agency educates the public and advocates for the long-term bests interests of people with disabilities and their families. Financial Sustainability The Agency believes its work as an advocate and service provider will be needed for many years into the future. 14 Underlying Service Assumptions This is a set of beliefs about the world that frame an organizations work. Directors and staff believe that the actions they will take will have the desired results. All of The Agencys services and the way it goes about its work are based on fundamental beliefs best way to support people with disabilities. The Agency believes: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ All people have equal rights. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ All people have strengths and assets. Note this is a sample plan and is not intended to refer to any particular organization. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ It is possible to make a positive difference in the lives of children and adults with disabilities. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ People thrive when they make their own choices and people with disabilities are capable of and have the right to make their own decisions; à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ People with disabilities deserve the same opportunity to participate in their community. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Engaging and participating in community life has a positive impact on people with disabilities. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ People with disabilities are valuable members of their communities. Note this is a sample plan and is not intended to refer to any particular organization. 15 Summary of Most Important Points in the Environment An environmental scan, called the e-scan for short, is a process for discovering and documenting facts and trends in the operating environment of an organization that are likely to affect the organization in its future work. E-scan findings are used to orient strategic planning participants on the context in which the organizations mission is carried out. The e-scan can also include a summary of internal information about the organization and its history including who has been served, results it has achieved, its current structure, and financial data. It is often put in the framework of a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) analysis Threats are external activities or trends that threaten the current and future success of the organization. Strengths The Agencys key strengths include the organizations demonstrated ability to provide high quality, necessary services, which help people with disabilities live a fuller life in the community. Staffs are committed, and the services and programs offered are monitored for quality. When there is a challenge, the organization meets it through innovation. The Agency has an excellent reputation and is looked to by other service providers as a leader. Weaknesses Some believe that The Agencys significant growth has led to challenges to human resources, difficulty with supervision, lack of structure for coordination among departments, and inconsistent administrative and clerical support. There is a perceived need for improved management practices, use of technology, and increased use of volunteers. Issues with the employment program were mentioned, including tracking, matching people to jobs, training, and finding more opportunities. Opportunities The opportunities considered most important included: Increasing community acceptance and opportunity for further inclusion through employment. There appears to be increased emphasis on inclusion at schools and increased openness by employers to hire people with disabilities. These changes make The Agencys philosophy more prevalent and may increase demand for its services and opportunities for employment and inclusion. Government Agency Waiver. Government will now provide the person with disabilities with a check to buy services. . Threats The threats considered most important included: Dependence on government funding. Funding, particularly the residential funding stream, doesnt keep up with needs. Implications: The Agency needs to assess the real demand for its services, increase private pay options, and be prepared to explore other opportunities for generating revenue. The question of what happens when private money is gone needs to be addressed. Other threats mentioned included: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The aging population, which means aging caregivers and aging people with disabilities. The improvements in medicine mean people are living longer. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ There are a lot of nonprofits in the county, and volunteers and donors may not be engaged forever with a single service provider. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Employment for persons with disabilities, especially in bad economic times, gets very difficult. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Rising housing prices make affordable housing increasingly difficult to find and maintain. 16 Strategic Direction The strategic direction is a succinct statement about the strategy or approach an organization will take toward its work over a specific period of time. The statement is based on a combination of both the current environment (the opportunities and threats facing the organization) and the mission and competencies of the organization. It is often a direct response to the strategic questions asked by an organization. Based on the Board of Directors understanding of The Agencys mission, primary customer, core values, and the opportunities and threats in the current environment, the next three to five years will be a time of assessing and deepening its approaches to its work. Concurrently, The Agency will take more of a leadership role in working with a broader array of community resources, and it will explore the feasibility of actively engaging volunteers. The Agency will review and deepen its existing direct supports and services over time to ensure that they are they are state-of-the art for working effectively with children and adults with disabilities. They will further assess consumer and community needs to identify gaps or opportunities for shifts in service delivery. 17 Goals Areas Goals and objectives set out the broad results that the organization hopes to achieve within a specific time period (goals) and statements of shorter term results and collections of activities (objectives) which if achieved will constitute and achievement of the goals. In order to pursue the strategic direction described above, The Agency will fulfil the following goals and objectives. Note this is a sample plan and is not intended to refer to any particular organization. 18 Delivery of Service The Agency will provide model supports for people with disabilities and their families, either directly or through partnerships with or referrals to other service providers in the following areas: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ work week opportunities (e.g. employment and day supports) à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Recreation and leisure activity à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Residential support (e.g. community living and participation) à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Family support and education 19 Main Objectives: A. Employment Support 1. More people with disabilities find and keep jobs in the community that pay a living wage and are satisfying. 2. The number of referrals for jobs and the amount of available training support increases. 3. There is an increase in the number of businesses in the county that employ people with disabilities. 4. Local public policy continues to create favourable conditions for supported employment. 1. Increase in the number of consumers in all programs over 5 years with disabilities who are using community resources in the county. 2. Consumers have greater choices and opportunities in social, recreational and civic activities in the community. 3. Consumers are more socially interactive and are better integrated into the community. Note this is a sample plan and is not intended to refer to any particular organization. C. Family Support and Education 1. More families with young children use The Agency as their go to resource for early information and guidance. 2. Consumers and their families have a structured approach for planning for all phases of life cycle transitions (e.g. children to youth, youth to young adulthood, adulthood to senior years, end of life). 19.1 Human Resources The Agency will develop a stable, highly qualified and motivated workforce that actively delivers the organizations mission. 19.2 Objectives: 1. The Agency improves its capacity to attract and retain qualified direct care staff. 2. All staff thoroughly understands the meaning of the mission and how their job contributes to achieving it. 3. A professional development program is implemented to strengthen and expand the supervisory and management capacity and opportunities among mid-level managers. 4. A professional development program is implemented to strengthen and expand the capacity of direct support staff to be community liaisons and successfully integrate the consumers they support into the community. 19.3 Resource Development The Agency will be a highly visible, well-respected nonprofits organization that attracts increased numbers of volunteers and higher levels of contributions to support operations and the endowment fund. 19.4 Objectives: A. Visibility 1. Update the communication plan to align with the strategic plan. 2. Use strategic communication to facilitate volunteer recruitment. B. Volunteers 1. Increase by 50% volunteers who are involved in all activities of The Agency. 2. Establish a volunteer development program, including selection, training, leadership development and recognition. 3. There is an increase in the number of family members and other volunteers who are actively involved in advocacy on behalf of people with disabilities. C. Fundraising 1. The Endowment Fund reaches $1 million in assets. 2. There is an increase by 25% in the amount of contributions that support the operating budget. 3. A maintenance fund is established and dollars are raised annually to sustain it. (Amount to be determined with additional research.) 20 Strategic Action Plan Focus by Year The following is a summary of the anticipated major focus of activities by goal (in addition to on-going operations) for The ABC Service Agency Board of Directors and Staff in each year of the strategic plan. 20.1 Year Summary of Activity 1 Service Delivery à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Shift from strategic planning to plan implementation à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Administrative department and staff reorganization; new Administration, Finance and Facilities Department Resource Development à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ New Development Specialist position à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Update the communication plan to align with the strategic plan 2 Service Delivery à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Fully develop capacity of the new administrative support team and strengthen program delivery with new practices using existing resources à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Program Directors working to strengthen program integration à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Employment support triage to strengthen training and placement à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Partnership with business in The County à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Increase advocacy efforts with HCPSS and DORS à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Work on communication skills to support people with disabilities accessing and using community resources à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Develop agency-wide interest inventory à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Pilot typical after work activities à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Reorganize family support for increased capacity for meeting needs of families with young children. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Management Team focus on best practices Human Resources à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Update training curriculum for direct support staff Note this is a sample plan and is not intended to refer to any particular organization. 20.2 Year Summary of Activity à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Creation of professional development program for direct support staff Resource Development à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Plan for expanded use of volunteers à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Establishment of Volunteer Leadership Development program à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Build capacity of resource development efforts including technology and tracking giving trends à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Information/funding raising breakfast events à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Begin seeking support for endowment fund à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Develop maintenance fund and secure initial funding 3 Service Delivery à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Continue work to strengthen service delivery à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Formalize system of professional development for direct support staff à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Implement processes for assessing satisfaction with employee supports and tracking participation with community resources and expanded family support and education support à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Expand internship initiative with businesses à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Community Access Specialist position à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Meet the Agency events for families children à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Strengthen supports and approaches for managing life cycle transitions Human Resources à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Implement new staff committee structure Resource Development à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Begin to implement volunteer services plan, including hiring a Volunteer Coordinator à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Implement a fall fundraising event 4 All Goals à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Develop expanded action plan Service Delivery à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Continue developing and stabilizing all new activities and initiatives Expand marketing for employment services to expand the number of people who are supported à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Dedicate portion of rolling access funds to support access to community resources à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Community Access Specialist focuses on relationship skill building for people with disabilities to further support community integration Human Resources à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Continue focus on staff development including developing a supervisory and management curriculum for mid-level staff Resource Development à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Continue to grow volunteer program à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Continue strengthening resource development efforts 5 All Goals à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Continue developing and stabilizing all new activities and initiatives; begin increasing numbers of consumers supported across program areas à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Take broad look at lessons learned in terms of successes and obstacles in implementing all new activities and initiatives à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Plan for new strategic plan

Age of Renassaince Essay -- essays research papers

The Renaissance, which began in Italy in the fourteenth century, was a period of great change in art, culture, and science. The word Renaissance means rebirth. Many of the greatest artists in history, such as Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci, lived during this period, but did not follow the trends of society. Great artist like Michelangelo and da Vinci began their own trends based on personal experience and beliefs. Renaissance's society was very different from feudal society of the Middle Ages. There are many contrasts in the ideals and values of the Renaissance and of the Middle Ages. The Middle Ages was a time of great suffering, including famine and wide spread disease. The Renaissance, however, was a revival of art, learning, and literature. The purpose of life was viewed differently during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. During "The Age of Faith," or the Middle Ages, man's purpose was to serve God. Life was a journey. The life of highest value was the contemplative life, a life devoted to God. In sharp contrast, man's purpose during the Renaissance was to exercise virtue, or the excellence as a man. During the Renaissance, towns in southern Europe had grown greatly in size. The wealthy people who lived in Renaissance society had more leisure time and money than did those of the Middle Ages. This meant they could spend more time studying new ideas and had could afford to patronize the arts. During the Renaissance, people ...

Jarok As A Traitor :: Star Trek Defector Essays Papers

Jarok As A Traitor Betrayer. Renegade. Mutineer. Defector. No matter how you say it, it all means the same thing: a traitor. I believe that Admiral Jarok from the episode "The Defector" from the third season of Star Trek the Next Generation is indeed a traitor. He betrayed his country and his family, disclosed secret information, and I intend to prove that he fits the definition of a traitor. The definition of a traitor according to Webster's New World Dictionary from 1994 is: a person who betrays his or her country, cause, or friends (1418). This definition is pretty vague, so to understand the concept of a traitor one must know the definition of betray. To betray is: to help the enemy of one's country or cause; to break faith with; fail to meet the hopes of; to disclose secret information or confidential plans (133). In the following paragraphs, I will analyze this definition and show how Admiral Jarok is a traitor. Jarok is a traitor in the political sense, regardless of his motives (to stop a war). By political I mean having to do with the Romulan government or empire. To betray one's country is to be a traitor, and Jarok betrayed the Romulan government by giving away top secret information. According to the storyline of Star Trek the Next Generation, the Romulans and the Federation are enemies. Picard and his crew are members of the Federation, and Jarok is a Romulan; therefore, Jarok and Picard are enemies. Jarok claims that he has discovered a plot for a new Romulan offensive, and he wants to help the Federation stop a possible war. By coming to the Federation to help them, he betrays the Romulans and is a traitor by "helping the enemy of one's country or cause." Jarok elaborates by telling Picard that the Romulans are building a base on Nelvana III, a planet in the Neutral Zone, and there are 21 Warbirds in orbit around her, just waiting to make a first strike. (Lynch 1995) Jarok announces that the Romulans will shortly launch a major offensive against the Federation. (Kernick 1993) At first he wouldn't give Picard the coordinates of the base, but Picard demanded proof. Jarok, beaten, gives all the information he can, including the location of the Romulan fleet and information about cloaking technology. (Tong 1994) Jarok betrays the Romulans by disclosing secret information or confidential plans. Jarok also breaks the faith with and fails to meet the hopes of the Romulans.

Evita: Saint Or Sinner? :: essays research papers

Evita: Saint or Sinner?   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The story of Eva Peron is a fascinating one . Evita, as she is known, enjoyed a rise to power like no other. The details of this ascension are often disputed, making Santa Evita's tale all the more intriguing. . .   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Maria Eva Duarte was born on May 7, 1919,1 the fifth and youngest illegitimate child of Juan Duarte and his mistress, Juan Ibarguen. The week of her birth was known as Tragic Week, when the army massacred striking workers, perhaps a foreshadow of what was to come in her life.2   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Eva spent her childhood in an adobe farmhouse, with farm animals and earthen floors. In the farming trade, Juan Duarte incurred many debts, eventually leaving him with nothing. Thus, early in her life, Eva learnt the humiliation of poverty.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The Duartes were further put down by the stiff Argentine caste system, which divided the poor from the wealthy. Being a bastard child, Eva and her four sisters were seen as 'brats,' and were stopped from associating with the other village children. Rejection, thrown upon young Eva through no fault of her own, would not be forgotten nor forgiven.3   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  At age fifteen, Eva Duarte set out to become a radio actress. She knew she could be like the women in the movie magazines she either stole or borrowed from her friends. Eva met singer Agustin Magaldi, and, packed her bags and sneaked out of her mother's boarding house to the city of Buenos Aires.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Once Eva learned the rules of the 'casting couch,' she dropped Magaldi and began her ascent to stardom. For years she wandered the streets, auditioned, and did whatever she had to do, no matter how distasteful. Eva gained modeling work and small parts in radio plays, frequenting nightclubs, and began to find better work.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  After several jobs in theatres, she was interviewed by the magazine Sintonia. After Eva started an affair with the magazine's owner, he began to give her good exposure. This led to jobs in the film industry. Though she made several, she had no talent to be seen in any of her films.4   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Eva's body was what sold her to the masses. She could have any man that she wanted, and soon set her sights on Colonel Juan Peron, who had political ruthlessness, a passion for younger women (especially good-looking actresses), and was a 48-year-old widower.5   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  On January 15, 1944, San Juan Argentina was hit by a terrible earthquake. A gala benefit show was held to support the relief effort, where Eva and Colonel Peron first met. They were seen leaving the gala together.

Architectural Classification of Memorials

Categorization OF MEMORIALS Memorials can be classified into assorted ways. Significant points that form the footing of categorization can be identifies as:Scope of audiencePermanence of the stuffEvocationArchitectureScope OF ARCHITECTUREMemorials can be classified based on range of audience in the followers:Public MemorialPrivate MemorialMemory is of import to all human existences. All human existences preserve commemorations in assorted signifiers. Human existences member their family in the signifier of sedate narratives or Samadhi, etc. Persons of broad acclamation and known for of import workss are society commemorated by the society. This gives u two signifiers of commemorations depending on the audience the memorial references.Private Memorialsare limited to the smaller communities or smaller parts of the society, e.g. Thayillam household tower. Thayillam household tower is a tower recollection erected by the household at Ayroor small town in cardinal Travancore, Kerla. The 32-foot tower has the names of 268 ascendants of the household crossing nine coevalss get downing from 1600AD. Such commemorations are rare as media other than architecture for continuing private memory are more popular and widespread. THE Devising OF A MEMORIAL What does really do a commemoration? By the virtuousness of which qualities do we name a construction a memorial? Are these qualities a step of a construction being a commemoration and operation as one? There are two chief factors that go into the devising of a memorial. These are the emotional factors and the architectural factors. Apart from the emotional facets, it is the assorted architectural facets, which are of import in rendering a construction. If the audience is straight hit by the event or is straight related to the individual that the memorial commemorates the emotional factor becomes stronger than the architectural factor. However, the emotional factor diminishes or dies out with clip ( as coevalss pass ) whereas the architectural characteristics remain more lasting through clip. In public commemoration, the full society is the audience. Ideally, the commemoration should show the position of the full society and therefore should turn to the whole society. Besides the commemoration has to be dateless i.e. to state it should be able to arouse the feeling in all the coevalss that it survives and unrecorded beyond its’ epoch. This is where architecture plays its portion. Architecture becomes the medium of arousing the emotions attached to the event/person that the memorial commemorates. Though commemorations have a intent, they frequently play certain different or added functions excessively. They may non be merely a ocular statement in the urbanscape but besides a political and a historical statement. The undermentioned subdivision throws some visible radiation on the maps, functions, symbolism, and the architectural rules the commemorations are based on.FUNCTION OF A MEMORIALThe premier map of a commemoration is to mark an event or a individual. This can be done through assorted mediums – architecture, art, sculpture, Hagiographas, talks, etc. Commemoration of an event or a individual is a really big term and the Functions of assorted commemorations can be farther broken up into inside informations.Memorials are shapers of memoryMemorials celebrate triumphMemorials mourn deceaseMemorials pay testimonial or honorMemorials express feelingsMemorials maintan historyMemorials display powerMemorials symbolizeMemorials are frequently national symbolsLife of a memorial can frequently be divided into stages. The impact of the memorial diminishes with clip. When the commemoration is made to mark an event, which has occurred late it has the greatest impact possible. The impact of the memorial alterations ( diminishes normally ) with progressing clip, newer coevalss, alteration in sociopolitical order, civilization, and other facets. Over a period of clip commemorations become inert going more memorials, meager reminders of what happened in the yesteryear. The three basic sorts of commemorations are:Memorials marking a individualMemorials marking an eventMemorials marking an emotionThese classs can be farther divided identifiable types. These are:SITINGLocating w.r.t the metropolis cloth could be:Away FROM THE CITY FABRICOn the main road ( en path )In the natural milieus ( remote )WITHIN THE CITY FABRICEn path Junctional Termination PointApproachApproach could be evaluated based on:EntranceWell definedNot so good definedNot definedPATH CONFIGUARTIONAxialBi-axialCoilingIndirectRadialPositionDirectObliqueCoilingSequence of positionsPATH OBJECT – REALTIONPath object relationPath-goal relation ( Termination of way w.r.t end )SpaceORGANIZATION OF SPACESLinearCentralizedRadialClusteredSequence of SpacesBased on:Hierarchy of infinitesFlow of infinitesTransitional infinites and elementsSPATIAL RELATIONSHIPSpace within a infiniteInter-locking infinitesAdjacent infinitesSpaces linked by a common infiniteFormForm could be evaluated based on:COMPOSITION OF FORMAgreement of the basic signifiersNature of the signifier ( linear or subtractive )Configuration OF THE FORMRegular ( centroidal or linear )IrregularFORM SPACE RELATIONKind of enclosureImpact of signifier on infiniteSCALE & A ; PROPORTIONEvaluated on the footing of:COMPREHENSIBILITY OF THE SCALEHuman graduated tableMonumental graduated tablePROPORTIO NING SystemBeing of proportioning system and deduction if anySymbolismSymbolism IN MEMORIALSymbolic contentSymbolism OF MEMORIALSAssociated valuesCHANGING ValuessAssociated values at the clip of construct, when built, and in clipMeans OF CONVEYING MEANINGSIndicationExemplificationMetaphorical lookMediated MentionsROLES OF A MEMORIALMemorials play assorted functions in the society or the urbanscape. These assorted functions played by commemorations can be identified as:Memorials as a political statementMemorials as a historical statementMemorials as a landmarkMEMORIALS AS A POLITIICAL STATEMENTAcommemoration has ever been and is the first and the first mark of power. History is a informant to the fact that merely the mighty and rich have been commemorated in a large manner and have been the 1s behind those brilliant architectural manifestations. Memorials of any sort are an attempt to commemorate man- to be celebrated by the future coevalss as a cultural testimony. Anything – an object, an event of sheer religion – that is larger than life and has surer opportunities of endurance has ever fascinated human being and adult male has ever tried to tie in himself with such an object, event etc. in a monumental manner.–Miki Desai Man has ever tried to tie in himself with something ‘that is larger than life’ and therefore his attempts have been directed towards making lasting architecture. This is one of the implicit in causes of many commemorations that have been erected all throughout history. Memorials are more or less governed by their demand to be lasting. This fact has led to the huge usage of rock, which is arguably one of the long permanent stuffs available, for commemorations or for that affair of fact for any other signifier of architecture required being lasting. Frequently commemorations have been a agency of self-propagation. WhenBartolomeo Colleonidied, he left money to hold a statue of himself erected in the chief square at Venice. Apparently, unable to throw out the petition wholly, the swayers of Venice decreed that Thursday statue be placed in the second-best square.MEMORIAL AS A HISTORICAL STATEMENTMemorial grade history, are the mileposts of history. Therefore, history can ne'er melt off. As said earlier commemorations over a period become inert one time the epoch has passed. After this point of clip, the memorial becomes a mere historical milepost reminding the undermentioned coevalss. Often commemorations were made with the purpose of go forthing a grade behind for the approaching coevalss, to be remembered longer than merely the life-time – an effort to commemorate the individual. Memorials serve as reminder of history and the present and assist the new coevalss to larn from it.SITINGAny memorial demands to be decently sited. If the commemoration is non decently sited ( decently located and has an appropriate context ) it may be unable to hold any impact on its audience. Siting is adjusted with regard to the metropolis cloth. The commemoration may be sitedoff from the metropolis clothorwithin the metropolis clothwith each holding it’s the ain giving up. One of the all right illustrations of good siting is the great Sanchi Stupa. King Ashoka really strategically and intelligently sited this whole composite ( monasteries, temples, and tope ) . Sanchi hill was located on an of import crossing of route and river paths. Vidisha the ancient capital was merely 7 kilometres off and was strategically situated along a major trade path fall ining the Patliputra and the western coastal ports. Locating can be evaluated based on:Locating w.r.t City FabricWhich could be:Away from the metropolis clothWithin the metropolis clothAway FROM THE CITY FABRICThe memorial sited off from the metropolis cloth could be either of the followers:On the main road ( en path )In the natural milieus ( remote )Rajiv Gandhi commemoration which has been sited off from the metropolis cloth lies on the main road and therefore could be described en path. Devals of Badabagh ( Jaisalmer country ) could be described as a distant location, off in the natural milieus.WITHIN THE CTY FABRICThe commemoration sited within the metropolis cloth could be:En pathJunctionalTermination PointTheDandi Yatra Statuecould be described as a memorial sited en path within the metropolis cloth. India gate is a good illustration of a junctional siting while, the Jaipur column is a good illustration of expiration point.SymbolismSymbolism in commemorations can be explained as the symbolic content of the commemorations. The si gnifier, graduated table, stuff, motive or the entire agreement of signifier, infinite, attacks, landscape etc. in unison could be symbolic. Symbolism of commemorations on the other manus would be the perceptual experience of the commemoration in entirety by the audience it addresses. Every commemoration will stand for an thought or an emotion and could be associated with certain values and significances. Though significances may fluctuate from individual to individual, the indispensable value would stay reasonably much invariable. Valuess and significances of a commemoration of a commemoration could alter with passing of clip or with a displacement of power. Thus the commemoration may non be associated with same significances and values as it may hold been when it was built. For illustration, the Jaipur Column in New Delhi ( located inRashtrapati Bhawan forecourt )could be associated with Imperial regulation, but today with a displacement of power it stands simply as a commemoration which marked the edifice of New Delhi. It evokes a feeling of regard from the multitudes alternatively of a feeling of bitterness ( towards the British regulation ) , as it would hold been in the times when it was built.HOW DO MEMORIALS CONVEY MANINGSThere are different ways in which the commemorations may convey significances, which depends on the pick made by the interior decorator. The four different ways in which this can be done is:Denotation ( direct )Exemplification ( architecturally exemplifying )Metaphorical ExpressionMedi ated refrencesMemorials or parts of it may be frequently read literally or denoted straight. In the instance of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C. for illustration significances are denoted by infusions from Lincoln’s Speeches Lincoln carved into its walls and by the presence of a big statue of Lincoln himself. Memorials frequently play up certain belongingss to derive attending. The method relies upon architectural techniques and rules. Uses of strong axis, monumental graduated table, making a sense of wonder utilizing the disposed media are some of the methods that could be used. Lincoln memorial uses a solid-void beat on its E fascade pulling attending to its centre and to the statue placed inside the edifice. A more common agencies of conveying the significance is its metaphoric look. Most of the commemorations make usage of this means. The Lincoln commemoration is treated as a sort of parallel temple, with Lincoln taking the topographic point of a classical divinity. In this instance the metaphor is missed, the method is rather literally carved onto the wall above the statue: IN THIS TEMPLE AS IN THE HEARTS OF THE PEOPLE†¦SymbolismSymbolism IN MEMORIALSBased on:Evaluation of the symbolic contentSymbolism OF MEMORIALSbased on:Interpretation of the commemoration in entiretyIdentifiable associated valuesCHANGING ValuessBased on:Associated values at the clip of construct ( interior decorators purpose )Associated values after the building has been builtAssociated values at the period of clipMeans OF CONVEYING MEANINGSIndicationExemplificationMetaphorical lookMediated mentionsDecision Memorials are an of import portion of a man’s society and urbanscape. They play an of import function architecturally, politically, historically and society. The premier map is to show and they do it subtly yet really efficaciously. Architecture plays an of import function in the look of the commemoration. The chief characteristics of the design of the commemoration are:LocatingApproachSpaceFormScaleSymbolismHow and where the commemoration is located is of import for the design of the commemoration. A commemoration is a strong ocular statement and therefore demands to pull attending so that it can convey what it stands for. This can be done in two possible ways – either bylocatingthe commemoration at astrategic locationwhere it is possibleforit to derive that attending or holding amonumental Scalupus erythematosussuch that the memorial makes a powerful ocular statement or in other words attains that character of monumentality. Ideally, it would be best for a commemorati on to hold a strategic location and have a expansive graduated table, but both scale neodymium siting can be used to complement each other. Often monumentality is attained ina a memorial by clearly insulating it from other options. Scaleis besides s DeviCeof meaning, a agency of denoting domination, power, or simpleness. Monumental graduated tables attempt tooverpower the visitantthrough the consequence can be underplayed by utilizing certain stuffs and other characteristics such as the landscape depending on the purpose. A simple human graduated table is more comprehensible for the visitant enabling him to associate to the commemoration. Passageis of import for the commemorations to do an impact on the visitore totals’ head and to deduce entire attending. This is done through attack, which act as transitional infinites that would let the visiotr to alter the frame of head. Often te whole infinite has a certainsequence of visual aspectwith identifiablepassage elements and infinites. Often commemorations are marked by apparent hierarchy and a gradual flow of infinites. Formsused for commemorations aresymbolic. Most of them over a period have been imbibed with certain significances,while there is besides an on-going procedure of introducing newer signifiers vested with significances. Forms like obelisks, triumphal arches, columns, statues are celebrated signifiers of commemorations. Architectural and art motions consequence in newer signifiers for commemorations. Abstract sculptures a newer signifier of commemorations came in usage after their usage in art since early 20Thursdaycentury. Most important factor of the design of a commemoration is itssymbolism,the really factor that makes it distinguishable from other pieces of architecture, symbolism is used to convey the emotions or other non-physical facets, which form the beginning of that peculiar commemoration. Symbolism is the unseeable synergistic portion of the commemoration. Symbolism in commemorations can be identified as built-in symbolism, which comes through the usage of signifier, graduated table, stuffs, location, orientation, etc. and non-inherent symbolism, which appears in signifier of messages on plaques or other media and are uually imbibed into the interior decorator. A memorial utilizations certain symbolswhich are frequently common and hold same significances for everyone e.g. the inveted rifle capped with a soldier’s hemet in the war commemorations indicates the unknown soldier. The commemoration may expose its symbolic facets in assorted ways. These could be adirect indication, architect urally illustratedor ametaphorical look. Design of the memorial reflects THvitamin Epurposeof te commemoration. Often commemorations are delusory and the seeable purpose of the commemoration is non its existent purpose. Sepulchral monumnets or commemorations honouringthe dead are frequently made by the succecors, bespeaking more frequently their authorization than the ritual to honour the dead predecessor. Memorials, in the yearss of the point of view and authorization of those in power on their multitudes. Today with democracy as the prevailing signifier of the political order in the universe and strong emotions of nantionalism among citizens, th commemorations excessively have changed their behaviour. They are frequently vested with involvements refering the whole the whole society than those few in the power. This is non to state that commemorations are non a agency of exposing authorization, but that there is a important alteration in their usage. In additon, there is a important relation between commemorations and poli tical relations. Th altering times have besides had an impact on commemorations. With the rapid urban agglomerations, commemorations have been made to come out and decorateour route intersections. This could be rated as a sight’degradation’ in the design of the memorialson one manus and as a agency to make up one's mind the importance of the commemorations on the other. As has been already discussed how of import it is for commemorations excessively have transitional infinites and elements, which create the certain atmosphere and the visitants, undergo an experience. The siting of te commemorations on traffic circles deficiencies this belongings. The experince is uncomplete as the passage clip is cut down phenomenally. Therefore, these commemorations become mere decorations of our urbanscpae devoid of their basic belongingss, which their opposite numbers possess. This tendency could be argued as a agencies of make up one's minding the importance of the commemorations, but that would be prejudiced and can non be entertained. Arguably, this tendency is non new in the urban design and has been followed throughout history, but it must be pointed out that th manners of tranport wer besides slower than todays’ .

Employment Law Compensation Plan Essay

In response to your request to have an employment law compliance plan for our client, Bradley Stonefiled who plans on starting a limousine service called Landslide Limousine, I have developed an employment plan which covers both State and Federal employment laws. Being in compliance with the Texas state employment laws, as well as Federal employment laws will greatly help out client in avoiding and penalties. The employment plan is based on Texas employment laws, which is where our client’s base of operations will be. The employment plan will also include Federal employment laws which are relevant to our client’s needs in helping him start his limousine service. I have also included the consequences for not being compliant with State and Federal employment laws. Texas Employment Laws Texas is a right-to-work State. This means that a person cannot be denied employment based on the fact that they are or are not a member of a labor union or other labor organization. The Texas Labor Code has five titles: General Provisions, Protection of Laborers, Employer-Employee Relations, Employment Services and Unemployment, and Workers’ Compensation (Texas Statue, 2013). The Texas Labor Code covers all aspects of employment. Title II (Protection of Labors) covers wages and discrimination. Being noncompliant can result in a civil action being brought by the employee, which can result in a monetary award that is determined by the courts (Texas Statue, Chapter1). Title IV (Employment Services & Unemployment) covers unemployment benefits and insurance which our client will be responsible. Failing to make unemployment contribution can result in a class â€Å"A† misdemeanor (Texas Statue, Chapter2). Title V (Workers’ Compensation) covers workers’ compensat ion insurance coverage, workers’ health and safety, and workers’ compensation benefits. The penalty for noncompliance is sanction, criminal prosecution, fines and restitution (Texas Statue, Chapter 4). Texas Payday Law covers how employees are to be paid, either monthly or bi-weekly. The law also states that companies are not required to compensate  their employees for vacation time, breaks, and lunches. However, they are required to pay employees for attending company meetings. Failing to pay employees’ can result in administrative cost equal to the wages in the claim plus 25% per employee. In addition to the wages which have not been paid ((Texas Workforce Commission, 2014) Federal Employment Laws States have their own employment laws which strengthen Federal employment laws. However, the Federal employment laws set the standard by which the States follow and or strengthen by adding new protections. Since our client is only looking to hire 25 employees, this would be considered a small privately owned business. Our client should also be made aware of the federal laws that he must comply to. The Fair Standards Act (FLSA) which requires employers to pay overtime to employees working more than 40 hours per week, at a rate of one-and-a-half times their regular hourly rate. The FLSA also includes the Equal Pay Act, which is an amendment to FLSA, which establishes the same rate of pay for both women and men (Cascio, p.82, 2013). Since our client is going to start Landslide Limousine in Austin Texas, the Immigration Reform and Control Act (IRCA) should also be included in this employment plan. The IRCA explicitly states that employers’ cannot hire someone that is not legally authorized to work in this country. The employer must exercise his due diligence by verifying all documents supplied by a potential employee as verification of who they are. The penalties for noncompliance can vary from $100 to $1,000 per employee; furthermore criminal sanctions can be imposed if a pattern of hiring unauthorized employees (Cascio, p.88, 2013). The Civil Rights Act of 1964 and its amendments, which is the forerunner to the Texas Labor Code, protects employees from discrimination based on their race, color, religion, gender, and national origin as it pertains to employment and promotions. This law was expanded in 1972 to include public and private employers with 15 or more employees. The penalty for an employer who is in violation of the Civil Rights Act can be responsible for compensatory and punitive damages (Cascio, p.82, 2013). The compliance plan stated here is a necessary start to get our client, Landslide Limousine, in compliance with Texas employment laws, as well as Federal employment laws. The goal here is not only to educate our client but to ensure that he is aware and understands all employment laws  which pertain to him and his company. Reference Attorney General of Texas. (2013, February 20). Right-to-Work Laws in Texas. Retrieved from Texas Constitution and Statutes: https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/agency/righttowork.shtml Cascio, W. F. (2013). Managing Human Resources. New York.McGraw-Hill. Statutes. (2013). Retrieved from http://www.statutes.legis.state.tx.us/?link=LA Texas Workforce Commission. (2014, June 02). Texas Payday Law. Texas. Retrieved fromhttp://www.twc.state.tx.us/ui/lablaw/texas-payday-law.html#payPeriods

Russia Superstitions

Customs that are more often regarded as superstition Mothers typically do not show their baby to anyone except the father, the midwife and other close relatives for forty days after the baby is born. Many nationalities have a set of rituals for the guests that they have to follow to see the baby for the first time. [1] Before leaving for a long journey travelers, and all those who are seeing them off, must sit for a moment in silence before leaving the house. It is often conveniently written off as a time to sit and think of anything one may have forgotten. 2] After someone has left the house on a long journey, their room and/or their things should not be cleaned up until they have arrived, or at least a day has passed if they are guests in a house. [2] Knocking on wood is practiced in Russia as in other countries. However Russians tend to add a symbolic three spits over one's left shoulder (or simply with the head turned to the left), and Russians will often knock three times as wel l. Traditionally one was spitting on the devil (who is always on the left). 3] Breaking a mirror is considered bad luck in Russia, as is looking at one's reflection in a broken mirror. The effect is also more severe than 7 years of bad luck (as in American culture). [4] On examination day, it is bad luck to make your bed, wear anything new, or cut your fingernails. [3] It is bad luck to use physical hand gestures to demonstrate something negative using oneself or someone else as the object. For example, when describing a scar you saw on someone's face you should not gesture on your own face or someone else's. If you must, you can demonstrate in mid-air.If one does it without realizing, it can be countered by making a hand motion towards the body part used and then an abrupt motion away (as if to pick up the bad energy and throw it away). [3] If one person accidentally steps on another person's foot, it is common for the person who was stepped on to lightly step on the foot of the pe rson who stepped first. It is said that they thus avoid a future conflict. [3] Birthday parties should be celebrated on or after one's birthday, not before. So when one's birthday falls during the week, it's best to celebrate the following weekend. And never give someone birthday wishes before their birthday. 3] Talking about future success, especially boasting about it, is considered bad luck. It is considered better to be silent until the success has been achieved or to even sound pessimistic. [3] Returning home for forgotten things is a bad omen. It is better to leave it behind, but if returning is necessary, one should look in the mirror before leaving the house again. Otherwise the journey will be bad. [4] Many Russians consider giving sharp objects, like knives or scissors, as gifts, to be taboo. You can avoid this taboo taking symbolic little money, for example one Russian ruble, in exchange as if it is a trade, not a gift. 4] Birds that land on a windowsill should be chased away. If they tap on the window, or fly into it (open or closed) it is considered a very bad omen (often of death). [5] If a chicken crows at you three times before noon, the death of a close family member can be expected within a fortnight. The chicken should be killed, but not eaten, as consuming it will bring about further misfortune. [5] Things bought for a newborn baby (such as clothes, toys, furniture, etc. ) should only be purchased after the baby is born. This is usually done in a big hurry. 1] It is often considered taboo to step over people, or parts of their body, who are on the ground. It is often said that it will prevent the person from growing (if they are not fully grown already). It is better to politely ask the person to move or to find a way around them. If one accidentally steps over a person (or people), it is sometimes standard to step backwards over them. [3] Unmarried people should not sit at the corner of the table. Otherwise they will not marry. This mostly applies to girls, and often only young girls. Sometimes it is said that you will not marry for 7 years, making it all right for young children to sit there. 6] When giving an animal as a gift (a cat, dog, bird, etc. ), the receiver should give the giver a symbolic sum of money, for example one Russian ruble. [5] A purse (or any other money holder) as a gift requires a little money inside. Given empty it causes bad financial luck. [4] A funeral procession brings good luck. But one should never cross its path or it is bad luck. [7] A woman with empty water buckets coming towards you is considered a bad omen. [3] A group of two or more people should not talk on different sides of a tree. They should all keep to one side or the other. [3] Bread should only be cut with a knife, not with your hands.Otherwise, it is said, that your life will be broken. The opposite is held true by some people. [4] Two or more people should never use one towel at the same time to dry their hands or bodies, or it is said to bring conflict. [4] A stranger should not look at a newborn baby before it is a certain age (between two months and one year). If one looks at the baby it is considered bad luck to compliment it. Instead, one could say, â€Å"Oh, what an ugly child! â€Å". [1] It's good luck to trip on your left foot. [3] One should never hand a knife directly to another person, as it is said that the two will get into a fight.Instead a person should always place the knife down on a surface, and only then can the other person pick it up. In several cases you can give it directly, but only pointing the sharp end to yourself and making the knife's handle accessible for the opposite person. [4] If one feels that he or she may have been cursed by someone (had the â€Å"evil eye† put on them) or just has the feeling of a hostile presence, it is recommended to remove one's coat and then put it back on starting with the hand opposing the usually used one. It is also recommended to pin a French Pin inside your clothing to avoid the curse of the evil eye in the first place. 3] One should not to shake hands or give something through a threshold. [3] Whistling in a house would bring misfortune to that household (see origins below). It is considered taboo to give something that is broken or has a defect as a gift. Before one takes an exam, someone else would say, â€Å" ! † which roughly translates to â€Å"neither fur, nor feather! † which means good luck. To this, the one taking the exam would reply, â€Å"? ! † which means, â€Å"Go to the Devil! † or â€Å"To the Devil! † which is a way of securing good luck