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