Business law Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Business law - Assignment Example t, that certain evidence be not presented or considered legal at the trial because it is believed by the defendant that the evidence has been obtained by the illegal means, generally in  violation  of the  Fourth Amendment  (search and seizure), Fifth Amendment  (privilege  against self incrimination). Advice/Conclusion: If the evidence with regard to bribery has been obtained by illegal means in violation of Fourth/Fifth Amendment, there is a case for suppression of subpoena and the judge may hear and decide a motion to suppress. â€Å"At a hearing on a motion to suppress, the judge may receive evidence on any fact related to the motion. Hearsay is admissible. Evidence Rules 11-1101(D)(1) and 11-104(A).† (JEC, Institute of Public Law) Analysis: Its compulsory to take third party insurance in most of the states in US. Innocent victims who are not responsible for accidents would be covered under third party insurance. The driver of the vehicle pays for the medical expenses with his third party insurance. Question – 3: Rebeccas complaint also alleges that in Rebeccas state there is a law forbidding commercial truck drivers from using cell phones while driving and that Coastal Constructions driver was using a cell phone at the time of the accident. What cause of action does this describe? Analysis: Apart from duty of care arising out of contractual obligations, individuals owe duty of care to strangers as well. An individual or group on performing any activity that harm another, either physically, mentally, or economically, ‘negligence in duty of care’ comes into picture. Taking reasonable care to avoid acts or omissions which a person can reasonably foresee would likely to injure others is the underlying point.   When a person is not responsible for the situation that warranted any incident which resulted into injury to others the person is not liable.   This general principle was established in the land mark case of Donoghue v Stevenson.in the

Mr S Ndzimba at Uj Essay Example for Free

Mr S Ndzimba at Uj Essay Redemption Song Analysis â€Å"Redemption Song,† a magnificently composed song by Bob Marley relates to oppression and deliverance of African slaves, who were brought from Africa to Jamaica. The general theme of this song is the beauty of the redemption of people after oppression. Support of this theme is found in Bob Marley’s connotation and tone. Connotation, the diction of words, is the most significant aspect of this song that supports the theme. Bob Marley’s terminology is responsible for creating a truly entrancing song. Bob initiates the song on a delicate level by describing the obliteration of the African people by slavery; â€Å"Oh pirates yes they rob I; / Sold I to the merchant ships, / Minutes after they took I / From the bottomless pit. (Marley 1-4). These very lines portray the appalling technique used to take Africans from their homeland to toil for others. The next line, â€Å"But my hand was made strong / By the hand of the Almighty. / We forward in this generation/ Triumphantly,† (Marley 5-8) illustrates the authority given to the slaves by God. Through His hand, the present generation has been capable of moving onward and prospering. The most eminent lines of the song, â€Å"Emancipate yourself from mental slavery / None but ourselves can free our minds† sustains thought that it is not the responsibility of the oppressors to free the oppressed; this assignment can only be completed by the oppressed themselves. Through the complete song, Bob Marley maintains an optimistic tone. He appears to believe that through all the pain and agony of slaves his generation will be able to formulate a difference. Evidence of this is found in the lines â€Å"We forward in the generation / Triumphantly† (Marley 3-4). This strictly means that descendents of Africans have been given an opportunity to right and improve the prospects their ancestors never had. Overall, â€Å"Redemption Song† is a incredibly stunning song that relates to not only African slaves but all others that have been oppressed. Bob Marley’s main purpose of this song is that, in the end, it is up to the oppressed to determine their freedom and destiny.

Selecting Channel Members

Selecting Channel Members Distribution plays an important role in the implementation of the international marketing program as it enables the products and services to reach the ultimate customer. And international marketing firm has the option of managing its distribution function either directly or indirectly through middleman or a suitable combination of the two. Due to physical distance, and also the differences in geographical, cultural and market characteristics of the trading countries, use of middlemen is found quite prevalent in international marketing. In fact, distribution is one such primary functions of marketing which makes use of the services of external independent agencies that bind the firm in a long term relationship. International Distribution Channels:- Distribution has two elements, the institutional and the physical. Physical distribution aspects cover transport and warehousing. The longer the channel, the more likely that producers profits will be indirectly reduced. This is because the end products price may be too expensive to sell in volume, sufficient for the producer to cover costs. Yet cutting channel length may be impossible, as country infrastructure requirements may dictate them being there. As already mentioned international marketers have the options of organizing distribution of their goods in foreign markets through the use of indirect channels, i.e. Using intermediaries, direct channels or a combination of the two in the same or different markets. Indirect Distribution Indirect channels are further classified based on whether the international marketer makes use of domestic intermediaries. An international marketer therefore, can make use of the following types of intermediaries for distribution in foreign markets. Domestic Overseas Intermediaries Commission buying agents Country-controlled buying agents Export management companies (EMCs) Export merchants Export agents Piggy backing Foreign Intermediaries Foreign Sales Representatives Foreign Sales Agents Foreign Stocking and Non-Stocking Agents State Controlled Trading Companies Direct Distribution The options available to international marketer in organizing direct distribution include sending missionary skies representatives abroad from the headquarter, setting up of local sales/branch office in the foreign country or for a region, establishing a subsidiary abroad, entering into a joint venture or franchising agreement. Companies having long-term interest in international marketing find it expedient to deploy their own sales force in foreign markets. This helps them in increasing their sales volume through committed market development activities, better control and motivation of foreign intermediaries being used, and paving the way for smoother transition to direct distribution and marketing. International Distribution Policy:- The international distribution policy of a firm according to Cateora, should cover the following factors: Question of control, size of margins, length of channels, terms of sale and channel ownership. Resource (money and personnel) commitment plans for the distribution function management keeping profit goals in a foremost position. Specific market goals expressed in terms of volume, market share and margin requirements, to be accomplished. Return on investment, sales volume and long run potential as well as guidelines for solving routine distribution problems, and The relationship between long-and short-term goals, the extent of the companys involvement in the distribution system as well as the extent of its ownership of middlemen. Adapting to distribution patterns Notwithstanding, the international distribution policy of the company, the factor of flexibility to adapt the distribution policy to local conditions of the foreign markets is very crucial for effective results. A clear understanding of the target market characteristics covering aspects such as traditions and conventions in the wholesaling and retail distribution patterns shopping habits of customers including customers reliance on channel members for product information and servicing; commercial terms; and legal requirements help define the selection of channel. The following trends help to illustrate the need to the above analysis for suitable adaptation of the distribution patterns: In the US, there has been a rapid expansion of large supermarkets and other retail chains, and also the deep-vertical integration into wholesale and manufacturing by large retail houses: In Sweden, a powerful consumer-oriented cooperative movement handles a substantial business in food, petroleum, etc. In Mexico, there is a modern retail distribution for the urban people, and traditional outlets and public distribution system exists for the poor. In China, wholesalers mainly control the Chinese distribution system. In Japan, large trading companies, handle half of Japanese trade while a large number of wholesale and retail outlets help products to penetrate in its market. In Saudi Arabia, a small number of hands approved by the royal family control its manufacturer-wholesaler retailer distribution system. Agents in Foreign Markets Agents, known by different names and performing varying functions in different foreign markets, have a historically established place in international distribution. While agents do not take the title to the goods, their importance stems from: local language proficiency, access to important policy and decision-makers, overcoming business culture differences, short circuiting the buying-selling process, and performing the cumbersome formalities and complying with routines and procedures of the foreign market. Selecting Distribution Channels and Channel Members:- Channels are an integrative part of the marketers activities and as such are very important. They also give a very vital information flow to the exporter. A channel is an institution through which goods and services are marketed. Channels give place and time utilities to consumers. In order to provide these and other services, channels charge a margin. The, longer the channel the more margins are added. Within the overall international distribution policy of the firm, the factors of: capital requirements; level of distribution costs; desired extent of control over distribution channel; depth of market coverage; product-market distribution pattern characteristics; competitive practices; legal requirements; and Short-term versus long-term involvement of the firm in international marketing govern the choice of distribution channels. Basically the choice comes down to two alternatives, the producer /seller selling direct or through an international merchant or agent. This is followed by the development of criteria for the selection of specific intermediaries. The criteria generally includes factors as financial soundness, local government contacts, business reputation, distribution network, technical support and infrastructural facilities (esp. relating to heavy industrial goods), business experience and managerial expertise, commercial terms, and extent of exclusivity to the international marketer. As the selection of the channel members commit the marketer to them for a relatively long period of time, their selection involves a cautious process and a careful analysis and referencing. Some international marketers make us of an elaborate process in this regard which begins with relative rating of candidate firms on pre-determined criteria. After the channel member is selected it is a prudent business practice to enter into a written agreement spelling out the scope of commitment to each other and thus minimizing the possibility of disputes and misunderstandings, 5 lists the items that should be included in a typical agreement with the foreign channel members. Items to include in an Agreement with Foreign Channel Members Name and address of both parties Date when the agreement goes into effect Duration of the agreement Provisions for extending or terminating the agreement Description of sales territory Establishment of discount and/or commission schedules and determination of when and how paid. Provisions for revising the commission or discount schedules Establishment of a policy governing resale prices Maintenance of appropriate service facilities Restrictions to prohibit the manufacture and sale of similar and competitive products Designation of responsibility for patent and trademark negotiations and/or pricing The assign ability or non-assign ability of the agreement and any limiting factors Designation of the country and state of contract jurisdiction in the case of dispute Motivation of Channel Members In order to get the best out of the international marketer and channel member relationship it is necessary that economic and non-economic incentives be used for the purpose. It may be emphasized that channel members being independent business entities, their key consideration for relationship is economic. If the channel member does not get an adequate economic return it is unlikely that he will put in his best in the business. In addition, regularity of contact, involvement in goal setting, better understanding of the international marketers business, and provision of assistance in market development or other areas of deficiency of the channel members capability prove useful for getting the channel members more than what they are generally expected to contribute. Robert Douglas Stuart suggests the following ways for strengthening the channel members loyalty: Build your distributor with your company: bring him into your picture; discuss future plans as they affect his area with him, seek his advice. Give your distributor an effective profit margin; try to keep in mind that you want to be in business with him for several years; make him want to continue the relationship. Be sure he has credit terms which make him competitive, or more so, in amount and length of payment. Maintain regular correspondence, and make sure he can clearly understand what you have to say. Make a point of commenting on successful distributors in whatever communication you use in his area (advertising, publicity, sales bulletins, and so on) Control of Channel Members Control of channel members in international distribution though difficult yet is an important aspect of its management. Accomplishment of sales targets, market coverage and development goals, payment schedules, and profit contribution made are some of the factors on which the performance of channel members is appraised and controlled. Constant monitoring, periodic reviews, regular communications and intermittent suggestions help a marketer to control its channel members and keep the marketer-channel member power balance in its favor. Legal requirements and adverse impact on reputation must be given their due weight age if and when the unavoidable decision of termination of channel member is to be taken. International Physical Distribution Management (IPDM):- Ever since globalization transformed the transport sector, national boundaries have become permeable to penetration by trade, creating the need for flexible transport solutions. Intermodalism and containerization were the by-products of this era and were poised to metamorphosis transport of general cargo, moving it `seamlessly through sea and land arteries. Forty years ago, the physical process of exporting or importing goods was arduous. Goods needed to be transported by lorry to the port, unloaded into a warehouse and then reloaded into the ship `piece by piece. The management of physical distribution of goods includes the functions as well as costs associated with packing, order taking and processing, and inventory control. Given the geographical distance, the associated business risks and the variety of transportation modes available, the management of this function poses a difficult challenge so far as the objectives of ensuring ready and regular supply of goods, in foreign markets at the most optimal costs are concerned. Physical Distribution Management, known as the dark continent of marketing offers tremendous potential in cost cutting and improving profitability. It requires the use of a systems approach and the management of the transportation, warehousing and inventory functions in an integrated manner. Containerization `Containerization, the term very familiar to present day shipping industry was a completely unknown concept a few decades back. It was Malcom McLean, owner of a huge trucking company in USA, who first conceived the idea of containerization by transporting. Containers through `Ideal X in 1956 and initiated a revolution in the history of shipping industry. Over the years, the industry has created a separate identity within the shipping world through continuous development and Maersk Lines, PO Nediloyd, Sealand Services (CSX), APL and others have come up as international majors serving customers all over the globe. The growth of containerization in India has been slow and steady. The formation of Container Corporation of India (Concor) as an autonomous body under the Ministry of Railways in 1988 boosted the efforts at increasing containerized traffic in the country. Over the years, volume of container traffic has experienced continuous growth and registered a volume of2.22 million TEUs in 1999-2000 at the major ports of India. A significant number of international container lines are active in India making business through their own office or through selected agents. Amongst the Indian shipping companies, only `The Shipping Corporation of India is active in the international liner business. It has tied up with Zim Navigation of Israel and Yang Ming Line of Taiwan to provide services on international routes. Of the 11 major ports of the country, Jawaharlal NehruPort (JNP) and Mumbai Port have. Established as the gateway ports for container traffic to India having a combined market share of around 60% of the total container traffic. Lack of adequate infrastructure in form of container handling equipment, CFS network and rail network in other ports have led to concentration of container traffic at Mumbai and JNP. Liberalization and privatization policy taken up by the Government of India has resulted into the commissioning of new ports like Adani and Pipavav. The various advantages offered by containerization include: Containers can be loaded and sealed at the consignors premises or at nearby container depot, minimizing the risk of theft. Since the goods are not directly handled during voyage, the risk of damage is minimized. Cargo can be loaded in a matter of hours rather than days the reduction in handling time at ports results in increasing berth capacity. The faster turn-round enables ships to make a higher number of annual voyages and reduces the number of necessary ships. Because of the numerous advantages, both air and water carriers encourage the use of containers by charging lower rates for containerized shipments. Conclusion:- International distribution and sales policy decision is one of the most complex aspect of international marketing management. Along with price and promotion decisions, a decision has to be made on the distribution system. There are two components to this the physical (order processing storage/warehousing and transport) and the institutional aspects. The latter involves the choice of agents, distributors, wholesalers, retailers, direct sales or sales forces. Again, each has its own advantages and disadvantages. However, it is in the channel of distribution that the international marketer can encounter many risks and dangers. These involve many transaction costs both apparent and hidden. Risks include loss in transit, destruction, negligence, nonpayment and so on. So careful choice and evaluation of channel partner is a necessity. Regular report on foreign markets, foreign visits, and deployment of sales force abroad and, an in-depth analysis of physical distribution cost and obstacles help a firm to streamline its international distribution, offer superior customer service, and keep distribution cost within reasonable limits. Since distribution decisions bind the marketers with their channels for long-term, its implications in terms of costs, flexibility, control and reputation must be examined carefully before committing the decision.

Planets and Solar System Essay -- Science Astronomy Astronomical Essay

Planets and Solar System "A planet is a celestial body that revolves around a central star and does not shine by its own light " (Grolier, 1992). The only planetary system that is known to man is our solar system. It is made up of nine planets which range in size and make-up. The nine major planets in our solar system are Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto. There are also many other minor planets which are also in our solar system, but they are unimportant compared to the nine major planets. In this paper I will discuss the planets and how they are each unique. Mercury which is the planet that is closest to the sun is the first planet I will discuss. Mercury is the smallest of the inner planets. It is speculated that the heat from the sun made it impossible for the gases present to become part of the planetary formation. The surface of Mercury is extremely hot. It is approximately 470 degrees celsius on the surface and is thought to be even hotter at the two " hot spots." These " hot spots " are on opposite ends of the equator. It is the heat of the surface that makes it impossible for Mercury to have any type of atmosphere. Mercury orbits the sun once every 88 days and has a true rotation period of 58.6 days. " It is the closest planet to the sun and therefore orbits faster than any other planet " (Thompson/Turk, 542, 1993). It is said that Mercury rotates three times for every two trips around the sun, so that during every alternate perihelon passage the same face points directly at the sun. " Geologically, the most remarkable features of Mercury are compressional cliffs or faults, just the sort of wrinkles that might form in the crust if the interior of the planet shrank slightly " (Morrison, 74, 1993). It is speculated that it was the solidification of Mercury's metallic core that caused this global shrinkage. Mercury is also " . . . enriched in metal or depleted of rock " (Morrison, 74, 1993). It is also believed that some of the inner core of Mercury is still in a fluid state. Scientists also believe that Mercury's surface is made partially of silicate rock. The best way to describe Mercury is, " . . . small, heavily cratered and airless " (Morrison, 71, 1993). Venus is the second closest planet to the sun and is said to " . . . most closely resemble Earth in size, density, and... ...n see the planets of most importance are the ones closest to the sun and Earth. Little is known about the far off planets therefore it is hard to give them full recognition. Much is known about Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn. The other three planets are not as well known as these six are. Whether more planetary systems exist doesn't really matter. There are still plenty of things we don't understand about our own solar system. Scientists will have their work cut out for them in the future. Each and every planet has distinct differences and that helps show us how truly great God is. The planets will never fully be understood and will always be a great topic of discussion. Works Sited Cattermole, P. (1995). Earth and Other Planets. New York: Oxford University Press. Grolier Electronic Publishing, Inc. (1992). Hunt, G. & Moore, P. (1983). Atlas of the Solar System. Chicago: Rand Mc Nally & Company. Morrison, D. (1993). Exploring Planetary Worlds. New York: Scientific American Library. Thompson, G. & Turk, J. (1993). Earth Science and the Environment. New York: Saunders College Publishing & Harcourt Brace College Publishers.

Community Health Nursing Assessment

Community Health Assessment of 78382 Chamberlain College of Nursing NR-443 Fall Session, November 2012 Audrey L. Hendrix Community Health Assessment of 78382 Introduction In an effort to promote the health needs within a community, a successful community health nurse (CHN) must focus on the entire population. In order to accomplish this task, the CHN utilizes a scientific approach to determine the priority population focused health needs for the community.According to Nies & McEwen (2011), a population focus involving an assessment of the community is a primary tool utilized in order to develop planning, interventions, and evaluations for the community at large. The purpose of this paper is to determine a priority health problem of a specific community based on demographic data, epidemiological data, and a windshield survey of the community. Community Data Zip code 78382 is the official postal identification for the city of Rockport, Texas. Rockport is the county seat of Aransas Coun ty.Rockport is a Texas Gulf Coast community located on Live Oak Peninsula between Copano and Aransas Bay on State Highway 35. Named for the rock ledge that lies underneath the coastal shore, Rockport was founded after the Civil War as a cattle slaughtering, packing, and shipping port. This industry continued until the late 1800’s when boatbuilding and fishing began to develop into important industries. After the railroad came to Rockport, tourism and the resort business began to thrive (Shukalo, 2005). After the turn of the century, a major hurricane almost destroyed the entire community.Recovery from this devastating natural disaster was slow but by the late 1920’s the community once again began to thrive. At that time, shrimping became a major industry within the community. Throughout the next four decades, the community continued to grow with the main sources of commerce remaining in the areas of fishing, shrimping, and tourism. Today Rockport is a favorite vacation spot known as the Texas Riviera. Major sources of commercial life today in Rockport are the restaurant and motel industries (Shukalo, 2005). Demographic and Epidemiological DataThe estimated population of Rockport is 8,846 compared to 25,674,681 for the state of Texas. The age breakdown for the population is 5% under the age of 5, 17. 9% under the age of 18, 28. 3% over the age of 65 and 51. 7% female. The state of Texas is 7. 7% under the age of 5, 27. 3% under the age of 18, 10. 3% over the age of 65 and 50. 4% female (U. S. Census Bureau, 2012). Caucasian is the largest ethnic group in Rockport at 88. 7%, African-American at 1. 5%, American Indians at 0. 7%, Asian at 2. 4%, Native Hawaiian at 0. 1% and Hispanics at 20. 8%. The state of Texas lists Caucasians at 70. %, African-Americans at 11. 8%, American Indians at 0. 7%, Native Hawaiian at 0. 1% and Hispanics at 45. 3% (U. S. Census Bureau, 2012). Currently 14. 7% of the population over the age of five in Rockport does not spe ak English in the home setting, 87% of the population over the age of 25 is a high school graduate, and 32. 3% over the age of 25 has a bachelor’s degree. In comparison, the state of Texas lists 34. 2% over the age of five that do not speak English in the home, 80% over the age of 25 with a high school diploma, and 25. 8% over the age of 25 with a bachelor’s degree (U. S. Census Bureau, 2012).Per capita income in Rockport is $30,513 compared to $24,870 for the state of Texas. The median income per household is $44,487 and the state of Texas is $49,646. Individuals living below the poverty level in Rockport are 17. 6% of the population compared to 16. 89% for the state of Texas (U. S. Census Bureau, 2012). Current infant mortality in Rockport is 4. 2 per 1000 live births compared to six per 1000 live births for the state of Texas. Adult obesity is 26. 6% of the population in Rockport and 10. 7% of the population is diabetic. Childhood obesity is 23. 3% of the Rockport p opulation compared to 32. % in the state of Texas (Kaiser Health News, 2012). In 2002, Aransas County was listed as one of the top 10 dirtiest counties in Texas due to air pollution from a local chemical plant (Scorecard, 2012). Windshield Survey Within the community, a large amount of individuals are visible. Many are entering convenience stores and some are standing in the parking lot areas talking. A variety of ages is noted and the two major ethnic groups in the community, Caucasian and Hispanic, are the two that are the most visible. Many of the individual are overweight or obese. Some are well dressed while others are disheveled in appearance.Pregnant women are visible as well as women with small children. The general condition of the homes in Rockport is diverse. Many of the homes are multi-million dollar structures while others are dilapidated and in need of serious repair. People seen in the downtown area are walking but away from that area, most people are travelling in ca rs. Some people are travelling on bicycles or golf carts in designated areas. Three areas of public housing are noted but there are no visible signs of public transportation. Numerous campaign signs are visible throughout the entire community.One adult day care and two child day centers are noted during the survey. Two grade schools, one middle school, two private church schools, and one high school are seen during the survey. Many of the homes in the neighborhoods in the area are dirty and in need of repair. The yards are full of garbage and items such as old appliances, empty beer cans, and cars on blocks. Some of the roads are in need of repair and almost too narrow for two cars to traverse safely. Most of the business buildings have handicapped ramps leading up the sidewalks. Parking lots have handicapped parking and the doors have handicapped buttons.One large park is noted during the survey but the park was sparsely populated during the survey. Very few children are visible du ring the survey. Numerous full service restaurants as well as fast food facilities are seen throughout the community. Rockport has no hospital but there is one emergency care clinic. Two dialysis centers, one assisted living facility, and three long-term care centers are noted. Two physical therapy facilities are also seen during the survey as well as three dentist offices. While driving throughout the neighborhoods, very few children are seen outside playing.No neighborhood watch signs are visible in any of the neighborhoods. Numerous churches are seen throughout the entire community. No evidence of gang activity, drug abuse or alcohol abuse is visible during the survey. One herbal shop is located in the downtown area. Next door to the herbal store, there is an advertisement for massage therapy sessions. Signs advertising health clinics, lectures, or health fairs are not visible during the survey. Problem Assessment data clearly defines obesity as a focus health area. The combined percentage totals for the adults and children within the Rockport community that suffer from obesity is 49. %. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (2012) obesity is one of the most common and most expensive health problems facing the United States. One of the objectives of Healthy People 2020 is to improve nutritional status and promote weight loss. When individual are overweight or obese, they are also at a high risk for numerous other medical complications such as hypertension, Type II diabetes, cardiovascular disease, dyslipidemia, osteoporosis, and many more diseases (U. S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2012). Historical SignificanceBefore the 1900’s being overweight was considered a hallmark symbol of wealth and health. The additional weight indicated that the individual had the financial resources to obtain a vast amount of food. Today, however, obesity is indicative of current and future medical problems. Prior to the many modern day c onveniences that most individuals use today, people toiled at intense labor to make a living. Meals were prepared from scratch and microwave meals were not available. In addition, food was expensive and difficult to acquire. Walking was common and until the late 1980’s obesity was not a problem in the United States (Wiley, 2012).Summary Obesity is a medical health problem that has becoming an increasing health care dilemma for minorities, low-income populations, and immigrants. These populations are vulnerable to these health care issues due to a variety of factors such as cultural diet choices, genetics, lack of funds to resource more nutritious foods and lifestyle choices. Throughout the United States, obesity and diabetes are reaching epidemic levels (Candib, 2007). Individuals today live a more sedentary lifestyle. They eat more fast foods, fried food and consume drinks high in sugar content.Children in the public school system consume meals high in carbohydrates and ofte n engage in little or no physical activity. Lack of income reduces consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables and parents often purchase cheaper luncheon meats such as hot dogs rather than the more expensive cuts of meat. When the fast food giants introduced the super sizing concept to the world, thus began the super sizing of the population. References Candib, L. (2007) Obesity and diabetes in vulnerable population: Reflections on proximal and distal causes. Retrieved online from: http://annfammed. org/content/5/6/547. ull Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2012) Obesity. Retrieved online from: http://www. cdc. gov/obesity Kaiser Health News (2012) Texas. Retrieved online from: http://www. statehealthfacts. org Nies, M. A. , & McEwen, M. (2011) Community public health nursing: Promoting the health of populations (5th ed. ). St. Louis, MO: Saunders/Elsevier Onboard Informatics (2010) Aransas County, Texas (TX). Retrieved online from: http://www. city-data. com/county/Aransa s-County-Tx. html Scorecard (2012) Pollution report card. Retrieved online from: http://scorecard. goodguide. com Shukalo, A. 2005) Handbook of Texas online. Retrieved online from: http://tshaonline. org/handbook/online/articles/hgr05 U. S. Census Bureau (2012) QuickFacts. Retrieved online from: http://www. census. gov/ U. S. Department of Health and Human Services (2012) Healthy people 2020: Nutrition and weight status. Retrieved online from: http://www. healthypeople. gov/2020/topicobjectives2020/overview. aspx? topicid=29 Wiley, S. (2012) Obesity history in the America. Retrieved online from: http://www. livestrong. com/article/359624-obesity-in-america/ Community Health Assessment of Rockport, Texas Introduction

Suicide Essay Example

Suicide Essay Example Suicide Essay Suicide Essay I would like to start this speech by asking what you think of suicide. Has it ever been an option to deal with your struggles in life? Have you ever thought about leaving this world because you don’t think it understands you? Have you ever imagined yourself cutting a vein, jumping off from a 20-storey building, overdosing yourself with drugs or simply just stop breathing? I mean, seriously, have you? According to the statistics conducted by the World Health Organization, one person commits suicide every 40 seconds counting to millions of suicide deaths at the end of the year. That is why, it is considered as one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Furthermore, suicide rates have increased to 40% from the last 50 years (. So, why do people commit suicide? Kurt Cobain said it was drugs. Vincent Van Gogh said it was the feeling of worthlessness. Virginia Woolf said it was mental illness. Marilyn Monroe said nothing. Nonetheless, most suicides are committed by highly-creative people. Does this mean passion in music, art and literature can drive people to their deaths? Absolutely not! There are different causes of suicides. According to Wikipedia, the common causes of suicides are obviously mental disorders, suffering, unrequited love, stress, guilt, self-sacrifice, catastrophic injuries, financial loss, loneliness, drugs, so on and so forth. However, there can be a lot of reasons behind a suicide attempt of a person. One of the sad truths is most of the time, their reasons are incomprehensible. Famous people who have committed suicide include Vincent Van Gogh, a mentally disturbed Dutch painter who shot himself in the chest; Kurt Cobain, lead vocalist of Nirvana who was believed to have died due to drug overdose; Virginia Woolf, a feminist writer who drowned herself in a river near their house; Sylvia Plath, a notable poet who gassed herself in a microwave oven while her children were sleeping on the other room. Some people take their lives for heroic causes. For example, Mahatma Gandhi protested against the war between the Hindus and Muslim by means of starving himself to death which was successfully stopped before he died. In Japan during World War II, soldiers kill themselves first rather than falling in the hands of the Nazis. Moreover, Japanese pilots also volunteered to sacrifice their lives by crashing their aircrafts to an enemy’s base. Indeed, people have different views about life. Some even denounce life and believe there is a much better world after it. We cannot always blame mental disorders as the cause of suicide rates. Highly creative people can be sane and appreciative of their life. No matter how troublesome life is, suicide is not always an option to solve problems. Escaping it would only produce more for the ones left behind. Suicide may have been one of the most famous resorts in escaping a problem or a life that is believed to be not worth living. However, environment can also affect a person who is tempted to it. If only we can all be sensitive to the people around us, sometimes a simple smile and good conversation can save someone’s life. Suicide. Wikipedia, the free Encyclopedia. 21 October 2008 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suicide

Free Essays on Democratic Fallacies

that tell the audience to get involved. I found a small box in the corner of the first page. â€Å"Your involvement now counts more than ever. This is a time to stand firm on critical principles. Sign up today and we will send you the latest updates and action items.† That is a pandering fallacy. When I read that, I thought they used an emotional appeal. â€Å"Your involvement now counts more than ever†¦Ã¢â‚¬  can they pressure us anymore? They make the audience feel that they have to â€Å"stand firm on critical principles.† Kerry and his team want us to get involve today. That’s my reason for thinking that was a pandering fallacy. When someone commits a mistake people usually criticize and attack their character based on a few mistakes, which anyone could have made. When it is someone else other than you, it is easier to criticize. I think it is not fair. A Kerry supporter wrote â€Å"His record of failure and his inability to play it straight with the American people and our troops oversees make him unfit to serve as secretary of defense for one more day, never mind four more years.† That’s a personal attack on Donald Rumsfeld. Why attack his character and credibility based on a few mistakes. ... Free Essays on Democratic Fallacies Free Essays on Democratic Fallacies Democratic Fallacies My first essay is based on the fallacies that I found on the Democratic website of Kerry. I read and learned to spot fallacies while reading. The Kerry website is intended for the older audience. As a twenty three year old I felt I could have read something that could have been more tailored for my age. Unfortunately I did not feel the Kerry website addressed the younger generation. I did know that presidents used fallacies as a way to attract voters to vote for their political party. However, I was not aware how manipulators candidates can be. Candidates use fallacies successfully on speeches, writings, etc. to lure people to their side and achieve votes in high numbers. In the website, I found a few words that tell the audience to get involved. I found a small box in the corner of the first page. â€Å"Your involvement now counts more than ever. This is a time to stand firm on critical principles. Sign up today and we will send you the latest updates and action items.† That is a pandering fallacy. When I read that, I thought they used an emotional appeal. â€Å"Your involvement now counts more than ever†¦Ã¢â‚¬  can they pressure us anymore? They make the audience feel that they have to â€Å"stand firm on critical principles.† Kerry and his team want us to get involve today. That’s my reason for thinking that was a pandering fallacy. When someone commits a mistake people usually criticize and attack their character based on a few mistakes, which anyone could have made. When it is someone else other than you, it is easier to criticize. I think it is not fair. A Kerry supporter wrote â€Å"His record of failure and his inability to play it straight with the American people and our troops oversees make him unfit to serve as secretary of defense for one more day, never mind four more years.† That’s a personal attack on Donald Rumsfeld. Why attack his character and credibility based on a few mistakes. ...

Popular Street Artists

Popular Street Artists During a walk along the streets of most urban centers, one may encounter various artworks displayed on walls. The government does not sanction a sizeable percentage of these artworks. Street art refers to the illegal visual artwork. Street artists usually undertake their work despite the risk of arrest.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Popular Street Artists specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Various street artists have gained worldwide popularity due to their street artworks. Some of the street artists include Alexandre Farto , Christian Guà ©my, Banksy, Shepard Fairey, and Brian Donnelly. Banksy is a controversial street artist whose works are in walls in London, Brighton, and Bristol. Banksy has even exhibited his artworks on the walls of West Bank. Banksy’s real identity is still unknown. However, various sources claim to know his real identity. Banksy has many fans due to his exquisite works of art. Banksy has several celebrity fans who include Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie and Christina Aguirela (Joseph para 3). Banksy has satirical artworks that use dark humor to express their message. Banksy began his career as a graffiti artist during the early 1990s. Initially, he was a member of the DryBreadZ Crew (BDZ). During the turn of the millennium, Bansky ventured into stenciling due to the less time that it takes to stencil. The shift to stenciling enabled Banksy to gain popularity in Bristol and London. Most of Banksy’s artworks have anti-establishment messages. He uses police officers, children, soldiers, and the elderly as subjects that enable him to express himself. In 2004, Banksy made a sizeable number of fake  £10 notes that had the portrait of Princess Diana instead of Queen Elizabeth. In an effort to discredit the Bank of England, Banksy satirically replaced the words ‘Bank of England’ with ‘Banksy of England.’ During the Notting Hill Carnival, a c ertain individual dished out the fake money to the crowd.Advertising Looking for essay on art? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The notes fetched  £200 on e-Bay. Banksy uses street art to express his political views. Some of the views may be controversial. Banksy also helps in the development of other artists. He hosts various exhibitions that provide other artists with a platform to exhibit their work. In 2008, he hosted the Cans Festival in London. The festival provided a platform for various graffiti artists to display their skills. This has enabled Banksy to become one of the most famous and influential street artists. Alexandre Farto is one of the most famous Portuguese street artists. He uses the pseudonym Vhils. Vhils has been a street artist since the tender age of 13 years. He started his career by painting on trains. Vhils is a graduate of arts from the University of Arts London. Vhils credits his current popularity to the platform that Banksy provides other artists to enable them portray their skills. There are artworks of Vhils in Moscow, London, Lisbon, and New York. Alexandre Farto adopted the name Vhils, since he liked spraying the letters (Jones para 3). Vhils started doing street art at the tender age of 13 years. When he was 17 years old, he started having a different picture of walls. Walls told the history of his country. This motivated Vhils to start carving into walls to reflect the changing times. Vhils has various street artworks of everyday heroes (Jones para 6). These artworks are in various countries across the globe. Vhils tries to use street art to chronicle the changing times. Therefore, his artworks help in social development. The Cans Festival provided Vhils with a platform that enabled him to attain his current popularity. During the festival, his work appeared alongside that of Banksy. Since then, Vhils has done several shows on his own.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Popular Street Artists specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Vhils has held various shows in Lisbon, Paris, and New York. These shows have enabled Vhils to display his skills. In addition, the shows have enabled him to express his ideas. The shows also fetch Vhils a considerable amount of money. Another famous street artist is Christian Guà ©my. Guà ©my uses the pseudonym C215. C215 is a 38-year-old French street artist who hails from Paris. The countryside background of C215 made him lack any connection to graffiti or stenciling work until he was 15 years old. However, upon doing some graffiti at the young age he became bored with graffiti. He only returned to do graffiti work in his adulthood. The wish to create a souvenir by painting her daughter’s face on the streets was the main factor that motivated C215 to venture into street art. However, his street artworks gained huge popularity prompting him to become a professional artist. Therefore, C215 did not set out to become a professional artist. He became a street artist by chance. C215 grew outside the street art culture that influences most of the modern street artwork. C215 is opposed to the repetition, overconsumption, hype, and cynicism, which characterize most modern street artwork. C215 uses his artwork to give hope and dignity to the society. In so doing, he uses his artwork to shape a new civilization. Most of the artwork of C215 consists of portraits of people. He uses beggars, homeless, and refugees as some of his subjects. These subjects enable C215 to use art to express himself. These subjects help in refocusing the society on forgotten people. C215 uses artworks in various cities around the world. Some of the cities include Barcelona, Rome, and London. C215 is also involved in other commercial artwork activities.Advertising Looking for essay on art? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Shepard Fairey is one of the most popular American street artists. Fairey, 43, hails from Charleston, North Carolina. Fairey’s involvement in art started in 1984 when he was 14 years old. The quest to hone his skills motivated Fahey to join the Rhode Island School of Design from where he obtained a degree in Fine Arts in 1988. One of the earliest works of Fairey is ‘Andre the Giant Has a Posse.’ Fairey created this piece of art while he was still studying at the Rhode Island School of Design. Soon after graduation, Fairey ventured into professional artwork by creating a small printing company. The company specialized in silkscreens and artworks on various clothing. This enabled Fairey to develop his art skills. Later on, Fairey helped in the formation of various companies that were involved in professional artwork activities. One of Fairey’s most famous pieces of artwork is the Barrack Obama ‘Hope’ poster. Fairey also has various street artwor ks. However, these artworks have landed him in problems several times. The risks involved in street artwork require artists to do street artwork discreetly. Street artists may face litigation from various parties due to vandalism of their property. This is because street artists work on other people’s property. However, this does not prevent street artists from portraying their artworks in various public places. On February 2009, police arrested Fairey due to his graffiti. Fairey uses street artwork as an avenue that enables him to express his ideas. In addition, Fairey has murals in several countries. Some of the murals are in London and Copenhagen (Bofkin para 1). Brian Donnelly is another popular American street artist. The artist uses the pseudonym KAWS. KAWS hails from Jersey City, New Jersey. KAWS began doing his artwork by doing graffiti in Jersey City. In the 1990s, he relocated to New York City. In New York City, KAWS began his career by subverting the imagery on var ious billboards and advertisements within the city. In so doing, he created attractive pieces of art. These advertisements remained in their reworked form for several months. This increased the popularity of the artist. KAWS has been involved in various commercial artwork activities. During the late 1990s, he designed vinyl toys, which were popular in various countries. The success of the toys prompted him to form partnerships with various companies for the manufacture of clothing. KAWS also designed the bottle of Dos Equis, a Mexican beer. Some of the artworks of KAWS include several acrylic paintings and sculptures. KAWS has remodeled various popular iconic figures. These figures include Mickey Mouse and the Smurfs. The artworks of KAWS have enabled him to use his artwork in mass-produced merchandise. KAWS has produced various artworks that have been commercially successful as mass-produced merchandise. However, KAWS continues to engage in various fine art activities that do not i nvolve mass production. KAWS shows how artists can take advantage of existing commercial opportunities while remaining true to their profession. Bofkin, Lee. â€Å"Street artist Shepard Fairey unveils largest mural in the UK.† The Guardian. 2012. Web. Jones, Alice. â€Å"Vhils: The art of urban decay.† The independent, 2012. Web. Joseph, Claudia. â€Å"Graffiti artist Banksy unmasked as a former public schoolboy from middle-class suburbia.† MailOnline. 2008. Web.

Letter of Reconsideration for Employment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Letter of Reconsideration for Employment - Essay Example My training was an educative experience where I grew to be a more dependable and hardworking employee. In my two months as a temporary employee, I have never missed a day of work nor have I been late. I was also always willing to take on overtime work without hesitation. My supervisor and co-workers have given me great feedbacks for my job. I was able to implement a ‘process improvement’ plan that increases production line efficiency. This only improved my confidence that allowed me to realize my potentials and creativity. For these reasons alone, I wish to continue on to be an asset to the company. Each of us has done something we are not proud of but I refuse to accept that my future should be determined by a juvenile mistake I earnestly regret. There is nothing else I could do to change the past except to be able to grow from it to be better. Please reconsider my application base on what I was able to accomplish and what I will be able to put in as part of the dynamic

Use of Local Extract Ventilation (LEV) to Help Draw Welding Fume Away Case Study

Use of Local Extract Ventilation (LEV) to Help Draw Welding Fume Away From the Breathing Zone of Welders - Case Study Example In this regard, implementation of Local Extract Ventilation (LEV) is regarded as one of such steps, which possesses the ability to enhance the quality of the work environment. A qualitative research has been conducted for this study in order to increase its credibility. This is mainly because the research approach will help in attaining the desired objectives relevant to the subject matter of the research. With the speculation of the different available resources, it is observed that the implementation of LEV is going to impose the positive impact on the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) management practices of the organizations at large. Organisations are presently developing their entities and credibility in the market by enhancing its sustainability. To develop health and safety measures, the organizations in this present day context attempt to incorporate different measures. It is mandatory for the organizations to maintain safety needs in the workplace and promote different safety requirements of the workers with the aim of conducting operational functions effectively. The governmental organizations are integrating strict laws that develop a proper system and enhance the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) management to implement a healthy environment in the workplace. It is mandatory for every organization to manage health and safety at workplace and enhance the organizational ability to comply with diverse health needs. The strategic implementation of different health measures is quite indispensable for designing a proper environment to enhance the different needs of health and safety at the workplace. Specifi cally for the people working in hazardous areas and companies operating within hazardous elements, maintaining OSH is mandatory.  

Human Biological Systems, Co-ordination & Control Essay

Human Biological Systems, Co-ordination & Control - Essay Example Different Parts of the Nervous System The human nervous system includes three main parts. These are central nervous system, peripheral nervous system and the autonomic nervous system. The CNS consists of brain and spinal cord while the other two are formed by neurons clusters known as ganglia. The brain is comprised of three major parts. The cerebrum controlling the human senses of touch etc, the cerebellum which controls coordination and balance and the brain stem that provides the linkage between brain and spinal cord as well as controls breathing, heartbeat and digestion. Spinal Cord is a tube consisting of neurons that move up the spine and links to the brain stem. The signals from the body parts are first conveyed to the spinal cord, from where they are either responded in case of autonomic responses or else are conveyed to the brain. 2. Types of Neurons The neurons or nerve cells are classified on the basis of their function as motor neurons, sensory neurons and inter- neurons. Motor neurons dispatch signals from the CNS to the other body parts. Thus carries a message that has been send by the CNS to generate an appropriate response, sensory neurons convey the external stimuli that triggered the nerve impulse to the CNS. These stimuli may be sense of taste, hearing, sight, smell, touch and pain. While inter neurons relay information among groups of neurons or neurons for information processing to occur within the brain in a similar way as computer’s logic circuits. They also convey information within the CNS. 3. Nerve Impulse Initiation Animals have various kinds of mechanical stimuli receptors. Each receptor begins nerve impulses within the sensory neurons on going thru a physical deformation introduced by an external stimulus like pressure, touch, stretching, sound waves and motion. A nerve impulse starts within a living cell by receptor cells. These all possess exceptional voltage-gated sodium channels, but are gated instead by the suitable stim ulus either directly or indirectly. For instance: In tongue the sodium channels are chemical-gated which opens the taste receptors on coming in contact with a particular food chemical while sodium channels in the inner ear hair cells are mechanically-gated that are disturbed by sound vibrations. In either case the right stimulus leads to the opening of sodium channel, leading the flow of sodium ions into the cell, causing membrane potential depolarization and ultimately influences the voltage-gated channels of sodium located nearby and initiates an action potential. Nerve impulses transmission Electrical transmission Neurons receive and send messages from and to one another and the body. This communication takes place via

Conflict Management in the Restaurants Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Conflict Management in the Restaurants - Essay Example Conflicts and disagreements that arise in the restaurant and hospitality industry can differ from those in the corporate sector, said a general manager of an establishment that generates tens of thousands of dollars in sales in week. In the restaurant industry, the hours an employee works are often long and varied and some workers may find themselves spending more time with their colleagues than with their own families, which can lead to conflicts, outbursts and clashes, said the assistant general manager of the same establishment. "Everyone is here more than their with their families," he said. "It's not like you're at a sit down job where you're in front of computer all day or at a press where you can't hear anybody. There's down time, and they are going to talk to each other." "Operators/ managers turn a blind eye to conflict at their own peril-customer loyalty is at stake, says Cathy Greenberg, managing partner of h2c consulting company, with offices in Tuscon and Philadelphia. "Customers will return to restaurants where they feel they're known, she explains. "Ongoing and unresolved staff conflict will lead to high turnover, which in turn will lead your customers feeling disconnected from your business." "Communicating with employees is essentialThe manager has to have an ongoing dialogue with all the staff. Managers need to diffuse and stay on top of situations. How you get there is that ongoing, daily dialogue." (http://pizzatoday.com/features_articles.shtmlarticle=NzE4MXN1cGvyNzE3OHN1Y3J1d....) While handling an issue as it arises is urgent, the manner in which conflicts are resolved have changed over the years. While an employee can be terminated on the spot depending on the severity of the incident, most companies and organizations now have steps that must be followed to resolve issues. "In the last ten years it's really been different," the general manager said. "Ten years ago you could tell them 'if you can't see it my way you can just leave.' Now you have to try and understand what they're thinking and where they're coming from." Procedures today now include verbal warnings, documentation/ write-ups, a three-day suspension and then, finally, termination. The gender of the management dealing with a conflict can also play a role in how the situation is handled. Men and women differ widely on their emotions, reactions to situations and stress levels. This all plays a part in how a situation can be resolved. "Being a female, I

Discussion Forum Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Discussion Forum - Coursework Example The contemporary curriculum provides a greater range of subjects; moreover, students of both sexes are given the same chances. Integrated Co-Teaching – ICT teaching has been introduced and is now considered to be an important part of daily life with a huge influence on future job prospects (PeÃŒ rez, 2013). In the past years, a teacher’s equipment entailed a chalk, a blackboard, and their subject knowledge. The students’ equipment usually consisted of a pencil/pen and paper/workbook (Arai, 2007). A current education system offers a variety of equipment that is largely influenced by technology. Items like whiteboard, projectors, tablets, and computers are commonplace and have expanded learning opportunities for students with different abilities. Many learning and teaching strategies incorporated in education system enhances learning to students with different capabilities (PeÃŒ rez, 2013). Online learning is also a major change in the education system that has evolved with technology. Elite schools and community colleges alike are currently offering online options, and these programs can be particularly attractive to mature students who have families and jobs. The students can access materials and do exams while far away from the learning institution. This has enhanced the efficiency as well as the effectiveness of learning (Conrad, 2005). Modern education system reveals more effectual teaching practices, better responsiveness to student needs, as well as adaptation to a fast-changing society that prepares students to utilize technology together with information as consumers, workers, and citizens is

Walt Disney World and Its Organizations Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Walt Disney World and Its Organizations - Essay Example Since its formation, the company has produced many movies that have topped the US as well as UK charts (The Walt Disney Company, ‘Company Overview’). The paper includes the company’s mission and vision along with the company’s different subsidiaries. Mission and Vision of The Walt Disney Company The Walt Disney Company is an America based multinational company. Originally, the mission of The Walt Disney Company was to ‘nurture the imaginations of children around the world as well as to celebrate American values’ (Reocities, ‘The Walt Disney Company-a Case Study’). The mission itself states the company’s operations. Most of the company’s operations are children oriented. As it has been stated in their mission, the children are the main center of the organizational operations and even the various subsidiary activities organized by the company are entertainment as well as children oriented (The Walt Disney Company, ‘Company Overview’). However, the mission of the company has changed stating to be â€Å"one of the world’s leading producers and providers of entertainment and information. Using our portfolio of brands to differentiate our content, services and consumer products, we seek to develop the most creative, innovative and profitable entertainment experiences and related products in the world† (Duran & Et. Al., â€Å"The Walt Disney†).... The Walt Disney Studios The Walt Disney Studios can be considered as the foundation of Disney. This legendary company started its journey from this milestone. The Walt Disney Studios is renowned for its ‘animated features and live motion pictures’ (The Walt Disney Company, ‘Company Overview’). The characters it created include Mickey Mouse and friends, which are the animation legends. The company is considered to be the world’s very first full length animation creator with its created character Mickey Mouse and Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (The Walt Disney Company, ‘Company Overview’). Distribution of motion pictures is done by The Walt Disney Studios under its allied organization, Walt Disney Pictures. Walt Disney Pictures includes its other allied companies such as DisneyToon Studios, Walt Disney Animation Studios, Touchstone Pictures, Hollywood Pictures and Pixar Animation Studios. The company had acquired the company, Pixar, in May of the year 2006. Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures International is another segment of the company which operates in international distribution of the motion pictures. Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment is the segment of the company which deals in distribution of the motion pictures of Disney as well as other movies through the means of rental and sells by home entertainment markets such as DVDs (The Walt Disney Company, ‘Company Overview’). The presence of The Walt Disney Company also can be marked in the theaters. The company owns Disney Theatrical Productions House which is also considered to be among the leading producers of the famous Broadway musicals. This also consists of

Conflict Management in the Restaurants Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Conflict Management in the Restaurants - Essay Example Conflicts and disagreements that arise in the restaurant and hospitality industry can differ from those in the corporate sector, said a general manager of an establishment that generates tens of thousands of dollars in sales in week. In the restaurant industry, the hours an employee works are often long and varied and some workers may find themselves spending more time with their colleagues than with their own families, which can lead to conflicts, outbursts and clashes, said the assistant general manager of the same establishment. "Everyone is here more than their with their families," he said. "It's not like you're at a sit down job where you're in front of computer all day or at a press where you can't hear anybody. There's down time, and they are going to talk to each other." "Operators/ managers turn a blind eye to conflict at their own peril-customer loyalty is at stake, says Cathy Greenberg, managing partner of h2c consulting company, with offices in Tuscon and Philadelphia. "Customers will return to restaurants where they feel they're known, she explains. "Ongoing and unresolved staff conflict will lead to high turnover, which in turn will lead your customers feeling disconnected from your business." "Communicating with employees is essentialThe manager has to have an ongoing dialogue with all the staff. Managers need to diffuse and stay on top of situations. How you get there is that ongoing, daily dialogue." (http://pizzatoday.com/features_articles.shtmlarticle=NzE4MXN1cGvyNzE3OHN1Y3J1d....) While handling an issue as it arises is urgent, the manner in which conflicts are resolved have changed over the years. While an employee can be terminated on the spot depending on the severity of the incident, most companies and organizations now have steps that must be followed to resolve issues. "In the last ten years it's really been different," the general manager said. "Ten years ago you could tell them 'if you can't see it my way you can just leave.' Now you have to try and understand what they're thinking and where they're coming from." Procedures today now include verbal warnings, documentation/ write-ups, a three-day suspension and then, finally, termination. The gender of the management dealing with a conflict can also play a role in how the situation is handled. Men and women differ widely on their emotions, reactions to situations and stress levels. This all plays a part in how a situation can be resolved. "Being a female, I

Walt Disney World and Its Organizations Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Walt Disney World and Its Organizations - Essay Example Since its formation, the company has produced many movies that have topped the US as well as UK charts (The Walt Disney Company, ‘Company Overview’). The paper includes the company’s mission and vision along with the company’s different subsidiaries. Mission and Vision of The Walt Disney Company The Walt Disney Company is an America based multinational company. Originally, the mission of The Walt Disney Company was to ‘nurture the imaginations of children around the world as well as to celebrate American values’ (Reocities, ‘The Walt Disney Company-a Case Study’). The mission itself states the company’s operations. Most of the company’s operations are children oriented. As it has been stated in their mission, the children are the main center of the organizational operations and even the various subsidiary activities organized by the company are entertainment as well as children oriented (The Walt Disney Company, ‘Company Overview’). However, the mission of the company has changed stating to be â€Å"one of the world’s leading producers and providers of entertainment and information. Using our portfolio of brands to differentiate our content, services and consumer products, we seek to develop the most creative, innovative and profitable entertainment experiences and related products in the world† (Duran & Et. Al., â€Å"The Walt Disney†).... The Walt Disney Studios The Walt Disney Studios can be considered as the foundation of Disney. This legendary company started its journey from this milestone. The Walt Disney Studios is renowned for its ‘animated features and live motion pictures’ (The Walt Disney Company, ‘Company Overview’). The characters it created include Mickey Mouse and friends, which are the animation legends. The company is considered to be the world’s very first full length animation creator with its created character Mickey Mouse and Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (The Walt Disney Company, ‘Company Overview’). Distribution of motion pictures is done by The Walt Disney Studios under its allied organization, Walt Disney Pictures. Walt Disney Pictures includes its other allied companies such as DisneyToon Studios, Walt Disney Animation Studios, Touchstone Pictures, Hollywood Pictures and Pixar Animation Studios. The company had acquired the company, Pixar, in May of the year 2006. Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures International is another segment of the company which operates in international distribution of the motion pictures. Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment is the segment of the company which deals in distribution of the motion pictures of Disney as well as other movies through the means of rental and sells by home entertainment markets such as DVDs (The Walt Disney Company, ‘Company Overview’). The presence of The Walt Disney Company also can be marked in the theaters. The company owns Disney Theatrical Productions House which is also considered to be among the leading producers of the famous Broadway musicals. This also consists of

Physiological Psychology and Ocd Essay Example for Free

Physiological Psychology and Ocd Essay Physiological Psychology is as described by Kalat (1998) as the study of the physiological, evolutionary, and developmental mechanisms of behaviour and experience. It is devoted to the study of brain functioning, how Neurons and Glia convey messages to one another and other parts of the body for it to function and work accordingly. Future studies of physiological psychology will help predict behavioural patterns in society and how brain functions can be â€Å"rewritten† through cognitive therapies .e.g. alcoholism, drug addictions. Kalat (1998) further goes onto explain that a Biological psychologist (physiological psychologist) try to answer four types of questions about any given behaviour, how it relates to the physiology of the brain (what parts of the brain are active) and other organs, how it develops within the individual, how did the capacity for this behaviour evolve and why did this behaviour evolve. Without the physiological understanding of how brain process work in relation to behaviour it is difficult to correctly diagnose a behaviour pattern and its cause. Kalat (1998) describes that â€Å"having a little anxiety can be useful†, however OCD is a condition in which there is excessive anxiety. OCD can be explained to a patient in simple physiological terms explaining the behaviour of the brain, for example: OCD patients often have a broken mechanism (being a synapse interaction) in their brain that would usually stop a thought once you have it. In an OCD patient it does not (stop the thought) – so the thought is allowed to revolve. This seems in description that it would sound more like a broken record than OCD really does, but that isn’t what really happens. OCD can be genetic but is most certainly physiological in nature. Without an understanding of brain functioning and how these neurons interact, how can psychologists work to alleviate the symptoms of the disorder? Research into the biological causes and effects of OCD has revealed a link between OCD and insufficient levels of the brain chemical, serotonin. Serotonin is one of the brains chemical messengers that transmit signals between brain cells. Serotonin plays a role in the regulation of mood, aggression, impulse control, sleep, appetite, body temperature and pain. For example persons with unregulated serotonin lead to destructive antisocial behaviour patterns, which society commonly experiences on a growing scale. All of the medicines used to treat OCD raise the levels of serotonin available to transmit messages. Without physiological psychological research into the effects that these medicines have on the brain society would lack the knowledge and understanding of how to diagnose and appropriately treat disorders such as OCD. Modern brain imaging techniques have allowed researchers to study the activity of specific areas of the brain. Such studies have shown that people with OCD have more than usual activity in three areas of the brain. These are: The caudate nucleus, specific brain cells in the basal ganglia, located deep in the centre of the brain this area of the brain acts as a filter for thoughts coming in from other areas. The caudate nucleus is also considered to be important in managing habitual and repetitive behaviours. When OCD is successfully treated with drugs or therapy, the activity in this area of the brain usually decreases. This shows that both drugs and a change in thinking can alter the physical functioning of the brain. The prefrontal orbital cortex, located in the front area of the brain the level of activity in the prefrontal orbital cortex is believed to affect appropriate social behaviour. Lowered activity or damage in this region is linked to feeling uninhibited, making bad judgments and feeling a lack of guilt. More activity may therefore cause more worry about social concerns. Such concerns include: being meticulous, neat and preoccupied with cleanliness, and being afraid of acting inappropriately. All of these concerns are symptoms of OCD. The cingulate gyrus, in the centre of the brain the cingulate gyrus is believed to contribute the emotional response to obsessive thoughts. This area of the brain tells you to perform compulsions to relieve anxiety. This region is highly interconnected to the prefrontal orbital cortex and the basal ganglia via a number of brain cell pathways. The basal ganglia, the prefrontal orbital cortex and the cingulate gyrus all have many brain cells affected by serotonin. Researchers believe that medicines that raise the levels of serotonin available to transmit messages may change the level of activity in these areas of the brain. Kalat (1998) offers the idea that drugs intended to control anxiety alter activity at amygdale synapses. â€Å"One of the amygdala’s main excitatory neuromodulators is CCK (cholecystokinin), which increases anxiety, and the main inhibitory transmitter is GABA, which inhibits anxiety.† Without physiological research into the how and why of brain function, people with disorders such as OCD would not be able to function â€Å"normally† within society. However this type of research and study is not limited just too diagnosing disorders in those with suspected behavioural problems but also allows insight into society as a whole and its interaction socially, emotionally and habitually. New and innovative studies through physiological research have shown that cognitive behavioural therapy can change activity in certain areas of the brain. The discovery could have important clinical implications on how talk therapies improve brain function and advance mental health. Researchers discovered significant changes in activity in certain regions of the brain can be produced with as little as four weeks of daily therapy in patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder as published in the journal Molecular Psychiatry. â€Å"The study is exciting because it tells us more about how cognitive-behavioural therapy works for OCD and shows that both robust clinical improvements and changes in brain activity occur after only four weeks of intensive treatment,† said Saxena. Past studies using functional brain imaging studies of patients with OCD have demonstrated that elevated activity along the frontal-sub cortical circuits of the brain decreases in response to treatment with serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SRI) medications or cognitive-behavioural therapy. However, clinical improvement of OCD symptoms was expected to require up to 12 weeks of behavioural therapy or medication treatment, the standard treatments for OCD. Only a handful of studies have looked at how therapy affects brain function, and all previous studies had examined changes over several months of treatment. Continual studies into physiological psychology will enhance clinical practises and provide a platform for more effective treatment of the symptoms related to this disorder. Saxena and colleagues at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA made two novel discoveries in their study of 10 OCD patients and 12 control subjects. â€Å"First of all, we discovered significant changes in brain activity solely as the result of four weeks of intensive cognitive-behavioural therapy,† said Saxena. â€Å"Secondly, these changes were different than those seen in past studies after a standard 12-week therapeutic approach using SRI medications or weekly behavioural therapy.† The researchers obtained positron emission tomography (PET) scans of the ten OCD patients both before and after they received four weeks of a therapy known as â€Å"exposure and response prevention,† which gradually desensitizes patients to things that provoke obsession fears or worries. However, the PET scans in this study also showed a significant increase in activity in an area of the brain called the right dorsal anterior cingulate cortex, a region involved in reappraisal and suppression of negative emotions. Increasing activity in this region corresponded to the OCD patients’ improvement in clinical symptoms after the four-week course of intensive therapy. It is possible to see the huge amount of information that physiological research has bought forth to society through just these examples alone. Physiological psychology is the study of the physiological basis of how we think, connecting the physical operation of the brain with what we actually say and do. It is thus concerned with brain cells, brain structures and components, brain chemistry, and how all this leads to speech and action. Further research as to how growing debilitating disorders such as OCD could be eliminated or drastically reduced in severity has weight in its importance. The research however does not stop with OCD diagnosis but has relevant importance to understand how we take in information in general from our five senses. Future studies based on OCD research could be more relevant than we think to other major issues facing society such as depression, drug addiction and mental health. It is imperative for governing bodies to fund education and research into the study of physiological psychology for this very reason. References: Kalat 1998 Biological Psychology Molecular Psychiatry Molecular Psychiatry 14, 197-205 (February 2009) | doi:10.1038/sj.mp.400213

Macbeth And Jay Gatsby | Evaluation

Macbeth And Jay Gatsby | Evaluation Jay Gatsby and Macbeth are in many ways responsible for their own downfalls, though I believe that Macbeth contributes more directly to his downfall than the comparatively indirect actions of Gatsby. Both characters are in some ways also to blame for the demise of other characters and their unrealistic hopes, dreams and ambitions bring about their untimely death. Moreover, the influence of key characters, especially women, whom are associated with Macbeth and Gatsby contribute to some extent to the two protagonists downfalls. By records, Macbeth is thought to have been written by William Shakespeare around 1603 and 1607, during the reign of James I, who became king in 1603. James was one of Shakespeares playing companys patrons, The Lord Chamberlains Men, and this play shows Shakespeares thoughts towards the king. Fitzgerald began The Great Gatsby in June 1922. It was written and takes place during the Roaring Twenties in a post World War One America, described as a time when gin was the national drink and sex was the national obsession. The novel was finally finished and published in 1925. The presentation of Gatsby and Macbeth at the start of their stories to the reader are contrasting to that at the end. The fist mention of Macbeth at the start of the play is by witches. To the audience, this automatically associates Macbeth with evil and witchcraft. To amplify this connection, Macbeth is given similar lines to the witches, Fair is foul, and foul is fair (1:1:10) from the witches and So foul and fair a day I have not seen from Macbeth to Banquo. Yet Macbeth is described by the bloody captain as a valiant and brave soldier on the battlefield, like Valours minion (1:2:19) and whose sword smoked with bloody execution (1:2:18); showing that Macbeth is worthy of the name brave Macbeth (1:2:16). But through the play, the character of Macbeth gradually deteriorates into a frail, cowardly man who is profoundly disillusioned, totally in contrast to the portrayal of him by the bloody captain. A similar change occurs during The Great Gatsby, where initially the character of Jay Gatsby is portrayed by Fitzgerald as mysterious, and who represented to Nick everything for which I have an unaffected scorn. Throughout the novel, Gatsby comes across as forlorn and lonely, and this feeling of isolation is emphasised during Gatsbys party at the beginning of chapter three in which he invites other lonely aristocrats, in the off chance that Daisy might appear. Nick feels as though there is more to this man than the stories Gatsby tells him of a gallant war hero, saying that every Allied government gave him a decoration even Montenegro, whom earned millions in the liquor business. But Gatsby is only cheating himself as he lies about his past, his family and his travels around the world. As the story goes on, Gatsbys goal becomes ever clearer, eventually reaching a point in which is similar to that of Macbeth; pathetic, dishonest, and desperate. The influence of women in the characters lives contributes towards the initial rise and then breakdown of their hopes, dreams and ambitions. During The Great Gatsby, the influence of Daisy plays on Gatsbys mind until his death. In a past life, Gatsby and Daisy had very strong feelings for each other before she and Tom became married. These feelings have long since left Daisy yet she still has a strong influence in Gatsbys life bringing to light the ultimate reason for his downfall. Fitzgerald uses Gatsby waiting at his phone and lurking outside his house as a metaphor for his and Daisys relationship. Gatsbys feelings for her are not realistic or worthy but this is what drives him on through life and it comes across that he would do anything to have her love him again. Nick observes He wanted nothing less of Daisy than that she should go to Tom and say: I never loved you'. Nick states that Gatsby found what a grotesque thing a rose is, a rose usually being relating to beauty, which de spite Gatsby telling Daisy that he loved her for other reasons, would have effected Gatsbys thoughts towards Daisy. Macbeth, though initially worthy of his title of Thane of Cawdor, is ironically overwhelmed by the great power that his wife, Lady Macbeth, has upon him. She comes across as a very influential woman of great strength and determination as of act three scene two in which the viscous plan of convincing Macbeth to kill Duncan is masterminded. But around act three, scene two, Lady Macbeth undertakes a dramatic change to take the appearance of a friendlier character towards Macbeth. Her level of influence over Macbeth gradually deteriorates and the guilt manifests inside her, turning her mad, eventually leading to a break down when she commits suicide. To ensure and emphasise the hopes and ambitions of Macbeth, the witches also play a direct role in influencing Macbeth by creating a prediction of the future. An example of these predictions is the title of Thane of Cawdor that Macbeth is to receive All hail, Macbeth! hail to thee Thane of Cawdor! at which Macbeth replies in disbelief But ho w of Cawdor? The Thane of Cawdor lives. The witches also foresee Macbeth becoming king, which Macbeth uses to convince himself to make this happen. Ultimately the gradual decline of the characters leads directly onto their deaths. The way in which Macbeth falls is crucial to his isolation in the castle during the attack. The most significant factor to which contributed to Macbeths downfall was paranoia. The fact that Macbeth had committed treason by killing Duncan fed his paranoia and could only ensure his safety by more action. Macbeth was aware that Banquo could suspect him of committing this crime and could not afford to let him be which lead only to one conclusion, the death of him and his family. In this way Macbeth takes on a more tyrannical view towards those he believes might succeed or even kill him. By the attack of the castle near the end of the play, there are few who would stand for Macbeth during the battle. Shakespeare then gives the reader a sense for Macbeths situation using very poetic language in the unlikely situation of combat, I have livd long enough. My way of life is falln into the sere, the yellow leaf, and that which should accompany old age. This shows that Macbeth realises that he has brought about his own downfall, and realises that there is little or no point in trying to redeem himself of his sins other than being killed and therefore almost allows Macduff to kill him. But he is proud at death. In some ways, the way in which Gatsby falls is similar to that of Macbeth in the sense of dishonesty. Yet the most significant aspect of it is the continuing build up of lie upon lie by Gatsby to those around him and himself. His life and livelihood are based upon his hopes and ambitions of once again being together with Daisy. Gatsby does not really see Daisy for who she is, but has rather built up an idealistic image of her. This build up of lies leads Mr Wilson to believe that Gatsby is the one that is having an affair with Myrtle and to Tom implying that he ran her down in the street, and therefore these rumours lead Mr Wilson to kill Gatsby for what he thinks Gatsby has done. Gatsbys romantic feelings are lost for Daisy by her rejection, and so death is more or less accepted by Gatsby. For Macbeth, Banquo is another influence, but in contrast to the influence of the witches and Lady Macbeth. In act one, scene three, after the predictions of Macbeths future are made, the witches foresee the future for Banquo as well, comparing it to that of Macbeth Lesser than Macbeth, and greater, Not so happy, yet much happier and Thou shalt get kings, though thou be none Later in the play Macbeth portrays these predictions as a danger to his power, foreseeing them as a betrayal by Banquo. This fuels Macbeths paranoia and leads to the slaughter of Banquo and his family And the right-valiant Banquo walked too late; whom, you may say, ift please you, Fleance killed, for Fleance fled. This paranoia eventually leads to Macbeths downfall. Another influence in Gatsbys life is the mysterious character of Meyer Wolfsheim. The reader is not presented much about this character, but from Nicks observations we see that he has had business relations with Gatsby. From what we do know, he is involved in the liquor business, of which Gatsby also seems to be a part of. To Gatsby, Meyer Wolfsheim is his apparent mentor, who could possibly have influenced Gatsby into his business. But it becomes apparent that Meyer Wolfsheim is involved in illegal businesses, taking fixing the World Series for example, which brings to light the possible truth behind Gatsbys fortune. In summary, the similar effects of the characters allowing themselves be influenced by women, and the characters unrealistic and unworthy hopes, dreams, and ambitions are the ways in which they are responsible for and gradually lead to the deaths of other characters around them and to the downfall and eventual untimely demise of the characters themselves.

Reorganization :: essays research papers

Reorganization A Company which have 100 people, has just gone into liquidation, being unable to manufacture furniture of sufficient quality and provide enough to satisfy the demand for it. In order to solve the problem, we have already thought up a plan. The bank manager have already accepts the financial and marketing aspects of the plan, but he is unsure of my management ability and how I would improve the organisation and management of the collectively brought about the company's downfall. So I am now have to reassure him and persuade him that I know not only how to manage people, but also how to set up and organise appropriate business processes. For the business problem that we are working with. It is require a range of skilful and craft workers, So that the aim of the plan is to provide a good quality and sufficient amount of products. Satisfy the demand for it. Show that plan to the bank manager, give him a confidence. So that we can borrow this budget form him then we can put the company on track again. These are all internal problems within the company; management of workers, suppliers, costs and budget. THE OBJECTIVE. FIRST the workers. Due to the fact that it must have the following problem in suppliers area. The quality of the raw material must have not reach the standard that is aimed. For examples: the may ordered some cheap materials or expensive raw materials where they can have poor quality of work done with the expensive materials and good quality of materials done by poor quality of work or it could be the other way round. So it need to reorganise and have real thought about it. For the problem which just mention can be relayed to the workers. The workers also have problem in; not happy with their salary, relationship problems between all workers themselves (neighbour trouble), also not happy with their raw materials where they are working with. To solve the problem above I must monitor in depth on the suppliers. Look at their raw material that they are provided and communicate with the craft workers and see if the materials are what they really want and what really keen on working with e.g. a worker may not be happy working with pine wood because he thing pine wood is not the right raw material e.g. too light or not met specification for the furniture or some other strange reason and where I must really consider about his thought rather than just do what I wanted to do. In other words if I've ordered some expensive raw materials, but it still end up

Figuring Out My World: Alison May Essay -- Disease/Disorders

Figuring Out My World: Alison May Alison’s story is the perfect example of what many families must go through when faced with the possibility of having a child diagnosed with a learning disability. Alison was not diagnosed with visual and auditory dyslexia until the summer before entering college. However, while still a toddler, her symptoms had been brought to her mother’s attention by her sister’s teacher. Alison’s mother then noticed her habits in repeating words incorrectly and how Alison would need tactile clues to follow directions. At the recommendation of her kindergarten teacher, Alison was tested for learning disabilities and the results from the school psychologists were that she was acting stubborn or disobedient. Her family did not stop with the school’s diagnosis. They had private testing completed that confirmed Alison did not have a specific learning disability. The final word came from a relative that happened to be a psychologist. He insisted Alison would grow out of her difficulties. So Alison continued on with her entire elementary, middle and high school journey as a student and daughter with an undiagnosed learning disability. Alison spent 12 years of her life learning how to learn. She was comfortable with conversation, but could not understand directions. This caused her a lot of self-esteem issues as a young child trying to fit in with all the other kids. She felt an enormous amount of pressure at both school and home. At age seven, she finally came to the realization that she just did not understand. That is when she began to develop coping mechanisms like asking others to repeat and clarify directions, spoken or written. She used the cues of those around her, and observed her classmates and reactions... ...yslexia http://www.tsrhc.org/dyslexia-take-flight.htm †¢ Intel Reader from Intel-GE Care Innovation http://www.careinnovations.com/assistive-reading-technology Agencies for Dyslexia †¢ Catapult Learning http://www.catapultlearning.com/ †¢ Children’s Dyslexia Centers of New Jersey http://www.mlcnj.org/ †¢ Dyslexia My Life http://dyslexiamylife.org/resour3.html †¢ Bridges4Kids http://www.bridges4kids.org/states/nj.htm †¢ National Disability Rights Network http://www.ndrn.org/ Organizations for Dyslexia †¢ Dyslexia International http://www.dyslexia-international.org/index.html †¢ The International Dyslexia Association http://www.interdys.org/ †¢ American Dyslexia Association http://www.american-dyslexia-association.com/ †¢ Davis Dyslexia Association International http://www.dyslexia.com/ †¢ National Center for Learning Disabilities http://www.ncld.org/

The Council for Exceptional Children

The Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) is a professional organization that was established with the aim of improving educational outcomes for individuals with various exceptionalities and disabilities, and for the gifted.CEC functions as: an advocate in seeking for appropriate governmental policies and setting professional standards; a supporter for the underserved individuals with exceptionalities and for the professionals who are in need of resources for their professional practice; a provider of various programs, conventions and conferences for professional development; and a publisher of journals, newsletters, and other educational resources for administrators, teachers, students, parents, paraprofessionals, and support service providers (CEC, 2008). CEC WebsiteThe Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) website is filled with an array of information that will benefit special education professionals and parents who are involved in the care and education of exceptional individu als. At an initial glance, the website appears to be overwhelming for readers who may be technologically challenged or those who do not use the internet often. The headline news and information that is located at the center of the webpage may attract the attention of the readers who may not be familiar with CEC and those who may want to keep tract of the latest news.Using colorful shades of blocks to group related information together, e. g. CEC Communities, Teaching & Learning Center, CEC Smartbrief, CEC Events and Regional Workshops, makes it convenient for the readers to locate the topic that they need to search. In addition, having a search box is an added feature that researchers may use in getting any information related to special education, exceptional students and individuals with special needs. The inclusion of a multimedia player to enable the user to view a short segment of the â€Å"Yes I Can!† awards is not only inspiring but also informative for the parents and students with disabilities. For individuals who do not have a bachelor’s degree, the career center provides guidelines in finding degree programs in special education and the preparations needed to become a licensed special educator. For those who have earned a bachelor’s degree, the career center also provides options on how to obtain a license through the university programs such as graduate degrees or alternative programs. Some local districts may provide evaluation of the teachers’ school transcripts to determine their eligibility.For those who would like to earn a degree in special education, the CEC website is a one stop career information center with database, resources, and links on financial aids and educational grants given by various foundations. For the educators who would like to make a difference in the lives of people with special needs, the website offers information on how to write a resume and prepare a professional portfolio. It also provides tips on how to prepare for a job interview and makes the applicants aware about the crucial questions that may be asked in a job interview.Furthermore, the career center provides details regarding career paths related to special education that people may choose to specialize in, other than being a classroom teacher. Some career paths may include art therapist, educational audiologist, educational diagnostician, rehabilitation counselor, school psychologist, speech language pathologist, and therapeutic recreation specialist among others. Information on the occupational outlook and average salary of public school teachers taken from the U. S. Bureau of Labor Statistics may be viewed in the webpage.The CEC website is also an online job board for employers who are looking for qualified special educators and for the job seekers who are looking for new positions or opportunities to work as special education teachers. An in-depth look into the website would give the special education stud ents and educators a knowledge that CEC adheres to strict professional ethics and standard as it provides resources for the highly qualified requirements for special education teachers as set forth in the 2004 Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) and No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB).The comprehensive, easy to use resource will assist educators in determining the background special educators need to be deemed high qualified as it covers all aspects of the issue to make it easy for educators to understand the law, terminology, the requirements special educators must meet, and how IDEA and NCLB intersect.There are several research papers that can be downloaded and read online with regards to evidence-based practice, current issues, instructional strategies, CEC articles, topics related to professional practice, instruction and curriculum in subject areas such as arts, reading, language, math, writing, science, foreign language, physical education, speech and language, self-discrimin ation, and social skills.To keep abreast on the latest news, technology advancement, and topics related to special education, readers may subscribe to the CEC Smartbrief or to some CEC publications, e. g. Exceptional Children, Teaching Exceptional Children, CEC Today, Teaching Exceptional Children Plus (TEC Plus), and Life Centered Career Education (LCCE). There are online courses for continuing education, web seminars, and regional workshops for SPED practitioners.Special education professionals and students from different countries may join the CEC blog, interact and share information related to teaching strategies, classroom management, behavior modification, and individual educational program. Conclusion The Council for Exceptional Children website has a wealth of information for parents of children with exceptionalities, special education teachers, students and paraprofessionals.The website is filled with resources for individuals who intend to become special educators as well as practitioners who would like to enhance their knowledge and skills through the online professional development courses, web seminars, regional workshops or customize training. The blog offered by CEC is a site where special education teachers can share their expertise and contribute to improve the quality of life and education for persons with exceptionalities. Reference Council for Exceptional Children (2008). About CEC. Retrieved on June 20, 2008 from http://www. cec. sped. org/AM/Template. cfm? Section=About_CEC.