Learning Visual Basic Essay

Visual Basic was a learning challenge for me. After my first assignment, I started learning from my mistakes and eventually started understanding a little more at a time. Having already learned a few basics in Web Development coding, Visual Basic was quite a bit different in programming language. Visual Basic is an Integrated Development Environment (IDE), which uses a Graphical User Interface (GUI) to create and modify code that is written in a basic programming language. There are different ways to use code in Visual Basic to make time more manageable by using less lines of code. During Class we learned how to convert algorithms to programs using input, output, variables, and looping. By reading flowcharts, hierarchy charts, and pseudo code a person can analyze and process the steps on how a program is to run. There was also a discussion on the different data types and how to use them. There are 11 data types used in Visual Basic and they are:* Boolean * Byte * Currency * Data * Double * Integer * Long * Object * Single * String * Variant Using Windows Form Applications, various input/output boxes were designed and rogrammed to run by setting up variables using expressions and operators. Visual Basic could be an asset in the future as I pursue a career in Computer Science or programming. I believe this course will help by adding to the accumulating skills and could be used to open many opportunities in the Information Technology field. Learning to analyze and make decisions on various programs and their creation, Visual Basic could aid in understanding different coding concepts that may be familiar or similar.

Positive Risk Taking Essay

Explain ways in which risk is an integral part of everyday life, Risk for most people is an accepted part of everyday life e.g. catching a bus or walking to the shop etc†¦ will carry some element of risk. Risk is associated with our health, safety, security, well being, employment, education, daily activities, using resources and equipment and community participation. Some adults such as those who are disabled or who are older are usually discouraged from taking risks with their budgeting, planning, employment and their daily living skills usually because people fear for their limitations or that they might hurt themselves or others. Everyone has the right to take risks and make decisions about their own lives, a balance should be found between service users participation in everyday activities and the carers duty of care. Social care and health policies are encouraging residents to increase their independence by being involved in the wider society such as leisure and work. It should be noted that it is impossible to eliminate risk completely , however minimising and being prepared for risk by preventative action. Supporting people to live independently by taking part of their lives means accepting that there are risks that cant be avoided but can be prepared for. Explain why individuals may have been discouraged or prevented from taking risks, see more:explain ways in which risk is an integral part of everyday life For some services, approaches to risk have been a problem because they have been concerned with avoiding potentially harmful situations for the service user and staff. People need to take risk to achieve things on their own merit, but there are people who should support them but will discourage them from taking risks because of perceived perceptions of the persons limitations. Risk taking can have benefits for the individual as it will enable them to do things most people take for granted. Risk is beneficial, balancing levels or protection and preserving levels of choice and control. A balance will need to be achieved between the wishes of the individual and the law duty of care. Described the links between risk taking and responsibilities, empowerment and social inclusion, Personalised care is a right for everyone, however some people will need more support than others in helping to make choices of their own lives. Effective personalisation of care comes the need to manage risk for people to make decisions as safely as humanly possible. Making risks clear and understood is crucial to empowering residents and the carers, risk management does not eliminate risks. managing risk to maximise peoples choice and control of their own lives. If the outcomes are part of the support plan and all risks have been discussed and understood, this will lead to real choice and control and will offer a better quality of life for the individual. Positive risk taking will help the resident to gain self confidence, develop new skills knowledge and hopefully allow them take an active part within their community so that they don’t feel included. Explain the process of developing a positive person centered approach to risk assessment, The person centered approach will focus on the individuals rights to choose their own lifestyle, even if that includes making bad decisions. A person centered approach is about helping people and those involved, think in a positive way to achieve the changes they want whilst keeping risk at bay. Risk management is about finding the balance been positive risk taking based on autonomy and independence and a policy of protection for the person and the community based on reducing harm. Its been stated that for a positive person centered approach to a risk assessment should consist of the following, involvement of the service user and relatives in the risk assessment, positive and informed risk taking, proportionality, contextualising behavior, defensible decision making, a learning culture and tolerable risks. Explain how to apply the principles and method of a person centered approach to each of the different stages of the process of risk assessment, Working in a personalised way and developing a positive person centered approach means to know that risks cannot be avoided but however can be prepared for. Reasonable risk is about balancing empowering people who need help to make their own decisions, once they have all the information, that is tailored to their needs so that they make their best decisions. Involvement of service users and relatives in risk assessment, to involve the resident, nearest and dearest is one of the most important parts of the person centered approach. The people involved with the resident will help gather information in framing of what the risk actually is, in thinking, generating ideas and solutions, by evaluating the solutions, in decisions making around the risk, in implementing the actions and by the learning that takes place during these actions. Staff must make note of the residents and others wants, their views on their owns risk and what responsibilities each person has in managing their own risk effectively. The person Centered Approach will meet this by asking for a clear picture of what the person is wanting to achieve, why it is important, what the outcome would look like, a history of the risk, the decision making agreement tools to look at staff roles and responsibilities and who will be responsible for the different decisions relating to the r isk. Positive and informed risk raking, This particular process is formed around the positive view of the person. This process is based on finding creative solutions rather than just saying no. Informed and positive risk taking is about quality of life being lived to the full whilst people in the community are kept safe, by meeting what is important to them, how they would keep themselves and others safe. Remember that positive and informed risk taking needs to touch on what the law says and allows i.e. legislation within The Human Rights Act. Proportionality, The management of risk must match the potential harm that could be caused. Using a person centered approach means flexibility. The more serious the task the more time you would consider it in greater detail. Centered approach looks at the consequences of not doing the task that could have potential risks for the resident, family member etc†¦ and being able to balance against the consequences that could happen of taking the risk. Contextualising Behavior, asks why did the person behaved in a certain way? at this time? in this situation? Part of this process involves getting information regarding previous information about the person, including the history of the resident of the risk they are wanting to undertake from their own perspective, historical data from a variety of sources to look at what has worked in particular situations, and communication charts will help with a persons words and behaviors, seeking their meaning and what the best response should be. This will help to get a understanding of the persons behavior in different context, but also to build a picture of what has been learned about how to best support the resident. Defensible Decision making, Following the person centered approach generates a clear trail of written and recorded records of what has been discussed, the different perspectives, the problems and solutions that have been considered, alongside any legal issues, such as the Human rights act or that of the mental health act that could effect the risk decision. All paperwork generated during the process provides a clear rationale for the decisions that will emerge during the processes that have been taken, and why other options have been declined. The rationale for decision making is also more clearly expounded and recorded than in traditional risk assessment forms in common usage. A learning Culture, The positive and productive approach to risk has a deep emphasis within its on going learning, using learning and reflective tools such as questions such as whats working? whats not working etc†¦ by defining staff their core duties and their own judgement and creativity in relation to the risk. Tolerable Risks is a key aspect for the Person Centred Approach in using this process it enables participants to have a more balanced and rational approach to risk, finding ways to enable the person to achieve what is important to them while considering what keeps that person and the community safe in a way the individual understands. Explain how a service focused approach to risk assessment would differ from a person centred approach A risk assessment only identifies the probability of harm, assess the impact on the individual, and interventions that will help to diminish the risk or to reduce the harm. Assessments cannot prevent risk. Risk is a normal and enables learning and understanding. Risk assessments are full of charts and scoring systems. A service focused approach seeks to avoid all risks. Risk assessments have no flexibility and is not a responsive approach to meet peoples changing circumstances. A service centred approach to risk assessment would be guided by a standard procedure and can compromise individuals rights to make choices and take risks. A person centred approach to risk taking will find the balance between what is important to the person, their aspirations and the supports that they require. Identify the consequences for individuals of a service focused approach to risk-assessment. Risk taking will usually often have positive benefits for individuals, enabling them to do things that most will take for granted. The problem with a service focused approach to risk assessment, is that it reduces the individual’s independence which in turn could reduce the positive benefits for the individual in question. A service focused approach to risk taking usually tends to have a negative focus on what the individual is not able to do or what they cannot achieve and has a limited outlook on identifying the benefits of positive, person-centred risk assessment. It does not empower the individual or encourage independence. Explain how legislation, national and local policies and guidance provide a framework for decision making which can support an individual to have control over their own lives, There are many different legislations and policies in place to promote human rights, in relation to support the individuals right to make up his or her own mind and to take risk. The equality Act 2010, is a law that bans any unfair treatment and help to get equal opportunities in the workplace and society. This Act covers nine protected characteristics, which cannot be used as a reason to treat people unfairly they are, Age Disability gender reassignment marriage and civil partnership pregnancy and maternity race religion or belief sex sexual orientation The Human rights Act 1998, This Act states that are able to seek help from courts if their Human rights have been infringed. The Human Right Act guarantees the following rights; The Right to life The right to freedom from torture and inhuman or degrading punishment The right to freedom from slavery, servitude and forced or compulsory labour The right to liberty and security of person The right to a fair and public trial within a reasonable time The right to freedom from retrospective criminal law and no punishment without law The right to respect for private and family life, home and correspondence The right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion The right to freedom of expression The right to freedom of assembly and association The right to marry and found a family The prohibition of discrimination in the enjoyment of convention rights The right to peaceful enjoyment of possessions and protection of property The right to access to an education The right to free elections The right not to be subjected to the death penalty Mental Capacity Act 2005, is to promote and safeguard decision making within a legal framework. It does this in two ways: By empowering people to make decisions for themselves wherever possible and by protecting people who lack capacity by providing a flexible framework that allows them to be part of the decision making process By allowing people to plan ahead for a time in the future when they might lack the capacity for any number of reasons Mental Health Act 2007 – amends the Mental Health Act 1983 and the Mental Capacity Act 2005. It introduces significant changes which include: Introduction of Supervised Community Treatment. This replaced supervised discharge with a power to return the patient to hospital, where the person may be forcibly medicated, if the medication regime is not being complied with in the community. Redefining professional roles: broadening the range of mental health professionals who can be responsible for the treatment of patients without their consent. Nearest relative: making it possible for some patients to appoint a civil partner as nearest relative. Definition of mental disorder: introduce a new definition of mental disorder throughout the Act. Criteria for Involuntary commitment: introduce a requirement that someone cannot be detained for treatment unless appropriate treatment is available. Introduction of independent mental health advocates for qualifying patients. Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 This act is intended to prevent unsuitable people from working with vulnerable people and to reform current vetting and barring practices. The act sets out a legal framework for the Independent Safeguarding Authority. Valuing People (Department of Health, 2001) This states the importance of Person Centred Planning can play in helping people with learning difficulties take charge of their own lives. The Guidance (Department of Health, 2002) stressed that Person Centred Planning is not a professional activity done to people; instead people themselves and their friends, families or other allies, must lead it. Putting People First, stated that person centred planning must become mainstream. Putting People First recognises that person-centred planning and self-directed support are central to delivering personalisation and maximising choice and control. It recognises that to achieve real change, users and carers must participate at every stage. These areas are: universal services – transport, leisure, health, education, housing and access to information and advice; choice and control – shaping services to meet people’s needs, rather than shaping people to fit in with the services on offer; social capital – care and support that individuals and their carers can get from their local community (friends, family, neighbours or community groups); and early intervention and prevention – support that is available for people who need help to stay independent for as long as possible, to keep their home or garden tidy, or to start taking regular exercise. Describe how a human rights based approach supports an individual to make decisions and take risks; A human rights based approach to risk management means to make sure individuals know their rights and that they are being supported to participate in making their own choices and decisions. A human rights based approach to risk assessment will balance the human rights of service users, carers, and other members of their communities. This is done so risks can be managed more positively and effectively. A human rights based approach looks at risk with ‘Human Rights’ in mind, it identifies the relevant equality and diversity issues, and maximises service user participation and empowerment. A human rights based approach to risk, means ensuring service users are as involved as they can possibly be in their own risk assessment process. support an individual to recognise potential risk in different areas of their life, and support the individual to balance choices with their own and others’ health, safety and Wellbeing; Positive risk taking is the process which will identify the potential benefit or harm. Positive Risk taking is to encourage and support people in positive risk taking so that they can achieve personal change or growth. Risks can be in many different areas of their life including, risks relating to their own health, their social life and also their finances and it is important to support the individual to recognise all of these potential risks. The risk assessment looks at four areas of risk; risks to self, risks to others and risks from other and risks to property. It is important that whilst improving on their quality of life they need to maintain their safety, responsibilities to themselves and others. Supporting an individual to recognise potential risks whilst balancing the choices with their own and others health, safety and well-being involves: Empowering people to access opportunities and take worthwhile chances. Understanding the person’s perspective of what they will gain from taking risks and understanding what they will lose if they are not allowed to take the risk. Ensuring the individual understanding the consequences of different actions to understand what the reasonably expected consequences may be of making that choice. Helping the individual to make decisions based on all the choices available and accurate information. Being positive about risk taking. Understanding a person’s strengths and finding creative ways for people to be able to do things rather than ruling them out. Knowing what has worked or not in the past and where problems have arisen, understanding why supporting people who use services to learn from their experiences. ensuring support and advocacy is available sometimes supporting short term risks for long-term gains. ensuring that services provided promote independence not dependence assuming that people can make their own decisions (in line with the Mental Capacity Act) and supporting people to do so working in partnership with adults who use services, family carers and advocates and recognise their different perspectives and views developing an understanding of the responsibilities of each party promoting trusting working relationships. Describe how own values, belief systems and experiences may affect working practice when supporting an individual to take risks Encouraging risk taking can put people in a difficult position as trying to balance someones own personalisation through risk taking with your own values and beliefs and the duty to keep people safe. Peoples past experiences may make them feel that the risks involved, will result in problems, however they should not let this interfere with the individual’s wishes. At some point everyone will have had a bad experience following a course of action this does not necessarily mean this will happen to other people. Your beliefs and experiences should not cloud the issue. It is key that you feel confident and equipped to support people to assess and evaluate their own risks. Advice is readily available when facing difficult cases in the form of risk enablement panels. Record all discussions and decisions made relating to supporting the individual to take risks, It is very important to ensure that all discussions and decisions made relating to supporting the individual to take risks are recorded within their support plan. Records will need to be eligible and understandable to all the members that work with the individual. The aim of record keeping is to ensure that the right people have the right information at the right time to provide the best care for the person in question. Recording information will provide a record of what has been discussed and decided in regards of risk taking. The records should also record any incidents which have taken place. The reason for keeping the records are: To show that you have offered the individual choices To show that you have agreed the desired outcomes To show that the individual has given their consent. complete a risk assessment with an individual following agreed ways of working, Risk assessment is the activity of collecting information through observation, communication and investigation. It is an ongoing process that involves considerable persistence and skill to assemble and manage relevant information in ways that become meaningful for the users of services (and significant other people) as well as the practitioners involved in delivering services and support. An effective risk assessment will need the person in question, their families, carers, advocates and practitioners to speak with one another to decide on decision and course of action. communicate the content of the risk assessment to others It is important to communicate and work in a consistent way with all those whom are supporting the individual. Gathering information and sharing is important. It is not just an essential part of risk assessment and management, but also key in identifying risks. Its important to communicate the relevant information of the risk assessment to all relevant staff. It will also be important to discuss and explain the risk assessment with the individual’s carer and family, so that they are kept in the loop. The individual’s goals and targets should be discussed too, so that they can aid understanding regarding the risk assessment and to ensure all those involved are aware of the desired outcomes. support the individual to take the risk for which the assessment has been completed; One way of supporting the individual to take the risk, could involve having a trial run. An example could be where the individual wants to make an independent trip in to town using public transport. On the first trip you could accompany the individual on each step of the journey. On the second trip, you could accompany them to the town and then arrange to meet with them later in the day. On the third trip, you may just accompany them to the bus stop. Gradually you can reduce the amount of support you provide. It is also important that the individual knows what to do if things do go wrong. You can support them to take risks by ensuring they have clear information and advice about what to do if they have any concerns. Review and revise the risk assessment with the individual; After each risk assessment has been agreed it will be important that to monitor and review in case any revisions are necessary. Risks may change as circumstances change, so they should be reviewed regularly. Risk assessments should be reviewed periodically and whenever circumstances change to ensure they remain current. i.e. Resident Baths on the own accord, but due to a fall now need assistance getting in and out of the bath. evaluate with the individual how taking the identified risk has contributed to their well-being. Well-being describes the way we think and feel about ourselves and others, our confidence, and our ability to control things in our life. When evaluating you will need to speak, with the individual, how taking the identified risks has helped their well-being and their quality of life. This will involve looking at the positive /negative consequences and outcomes of their choices they have made. Looking at whether taking the risks have met the individual’s needs and achieved their desired outcome. Taking an identified risk will hopefully make the individual feel empowered and to have a greater feel of independence, control and normality. In supporting the individual to take positive risks, it should help them to evaluate other courses of action and can build confidence. The experience of failure, as a result of risk taking in a safe environment, can help to manage the identified risk better in the future. explain how the principle of duty of care can be maintained while supporting individuals to take risks, Everyone has a duty of care and a responsibility not to agree to a support plan if there are any serious concerns that it will not meet the individual’s needs or if it places an individual in a dangerous situation. Whilst an individual can choose to live with a level of risk and is allowed to do so through law, the local authority does not have to fund it. When you support individuals so that they can have more choice and control within their lives through positive risk taking, things may go wrong from time to time. A defensible decision is one where those involved in the risk assessing process: Used reliable assessment methods Acted responsibly in relation to their duty of care Were not negligent Assessed and took steps to manage and minimise foreseeable risks Recorded decisions and subsequently checked they were carried out Followed policies, procedures and guidance Involved the person and other relevant people in the process Supported people to make informed decisions Identification of positive and negative risks Involvement of people who use services and those who are important to them – this includes people who form the individual’s informal ‘circle of support’, who are involved from the beginning to gather information, define what the risks are from the individual’s point of view and to discuss ways to enable and manage these risks. Positive and informed risk-taking – this is built on a strengths-based approach to the person and looks at creative ways for people to be able to do things rather than ruling them out. Proportionality – this means that the time and effort spent on managing a risk should match the severity of that risk. The approach should also explore the consequence of not taking the risk in question, such as loss of autonomy or restriction of choice. Contextualising behaviour – this means knowing about the person’s history and social environment, their previous experience of risk, what has and has not worked in previous situations. Defensible decision making – this means recording a clear rationale for all the decisions made and the discussions that led to the decisions, including reference to relevant legislation such as the Mental Capacity Act or the Human Rights Act. A learning culture – this require a commitment to ongoing learning and the use of reflective practice for people working at the frontline. Tolerable risks – this involves negotiating and balancing issues of risk and safety to identify what is acceptable for everyone concerned (the individual and others including the community) on a case by case basis. Describe what action to take if an individual decides to take an unplanned risk that places him/herself or others in immediate or imminent danger, When looking after someone if you believe that he or she is about to take an unplanned risk which could potentially place them or others in immediate or imminent danger it is very important to take appropriate corrective and preventative action and stop the activity immediately. Risk assessments should include contingency plans that address risks from unplanned events. Physical intervention may only be the course of action. Staff should be trained with a range of skills to deal with any potentially violent situations, as well as a range of restraint techniques that will help them use the minimum level of force possible. Physical intervention is only used in response to challenging behaviour.

Environmental Health and Safety

1) Discuss what may constitute improper practices for the disposal of trash (solid wastes), particularly hazardous wastes. 2) Describe the human health problems that could occur if trash (solid wastes), particularly hazardous waste, is improperly disposed off in your community. Municipal Solid Waste (MSW)—more commonly known as trash or garbage—consists of everyday items we use and then throw away, such as product packaging, grass clippings, furniture, clothing, bottles, food scraps, newspapers, appliances, paint, and batteries.This comes from our homes, schools, hospitals, and businesses (Municipal Solid Waste, 2013). There are many ways that constitute improper practices for the disposal of trash (solid waste). Some of the ways include: throwing it on the street, flushing down the toilet, sink or drain and in some cases throwing it directly into a body of water. When flushed down a toilet, sink or drain, household hazardous waste goes through the sewage system to trea tment plants not equipped to handle hazardous waste.At treatment plants, hazardous waste interferes with the biological treatment process by killing bacteria and contaminating the effluent that runs into the ocean. When hazardous waste is thrown on the street, it goes down storm drains leading into our area waterways, impacting the Pacific Ocean, our lakes, and our local beaches. Improper use, storage and disposal of household hazardous products can potentially harm our families, children, and pets, pollute our neighborhoods and contaminate our ground, water and air. When thrown in with the regular trash, household hazardous waste can injure sanitation workers.In addition, the hazardous waste may end up in landfills not intended or permitted for those types of wastes which could in turn impact groundwater. When poured on the ground, household hazardous waste may seep into and contaminate our groundwater or the ocean we swim in. Chemicals affect our everyday lives. They are used to p roduce almost everything we use, from paper and plastics to medicines and food to gasoline, steel, and electronic equipment. More than 70,000 chemicals are used regularly around the world. Some occur naturally in the earth or atmosphere; others are synthetic, or human-made.When we use and dispose of them properly, they may enhance our quality of life. But when we use or dispose of them improperly, they can have harmful effects on humans, plants, and animals. (Hazardous Substances and Hazardous Waste, 2011). When hazardous wastes are released in the air, water, or on the land they can spread, contaminating even more of the environment and posing greater threats to our health. For example, when rain falls on soil at a waste site, it can carry hazardous waste deeper into the ground and the underlying groundwater. Environmental Health and Safety 1) Discuss what may constitute improper practices for the disposal of trash (solid wastes), particularly hazardous wastes. 2) Describe the human health problems that could occur if trash (solid wastes), particularly hazardous waste, is improperly disposed off in your community.Municipal Solid Waste (MSW)—more commonly known as trash or garbage—consists of everyday items we use and then throw away, such as product packaging, grass clippings, furniture, clothing, bottles, food scraps, newspapers, appliances, paint, and batteries. This comes from our homes, schools, hospitals, and businesses (Municipal Solid Waste, 2013). There are many ways that constitute improper practices for the disposal of trash (solid waste). Some of the ways include: throwing it on the street, flushing down the toilet, sink or drain and in some cases throwing it directly into a body of water.When flushed down a toilet, sink or drain, household hazardous waste goes through the sewage system to treat ment plants not equipped to handle hazardous waste. At treatment plants, hazardous waste interferes with the biological treatment process by killing bacteria and contaminating the effluent that runs into the ocean. When hazardous waste is thrown on the street, it goes down storm drains leading into our area waterways, impacting the Pacific Ocean, our lakes, and our local beaches.Improper use, storage and disposal of household hazardous products can potentially harm our families, children, and pets, pollute our neighborhoods and contaminate our ground, water and air. When thrown in with the regular trash, household hazardous waste can injure sanitation workers. In addition, the hazardous waste may end up in landfills not intended or permitted for those types of wastes which could in turn impact groundwater. When poured on the ground, household hazardous waste may seep into and contaminate our groundwater or the ocean we swim in.Chemicals affect our everyday lives. They are used to pr oduce almost everything we use, from paper and plastics to medicines and food to gasoline, steel, and electronic equipment. More than 70,000 chemicals are used regularly around the world. Some occur naturally in the earth or atmosphere; others are synthetic, or human-made. When we use and dispose of them properly, they may enhance our quality of life.But when we use or  dispose of them improperly, they can have harmful effects on humans, plants, and animals. (Hazardous Substances and Hazardous Waste, 2011). When hazardous wastes are released in the air, water, or on the land they can spread, contaminating even more of the environment and posing greater threats to our health. For example, when rain falls on soil at a waste site, it can carry hazardous waste deeper into the ground and the underlying groundwater.

The Fugitive Slave Law Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

The Fugitive Slave Law - Essay Example The rights of the citizen especially freedom should be upheld by such legislation in Massachusetts. However, there is higher prevalence of slavery ever since the beginning of the 19th century. The law is supreme and south Massachusetts is a free state. As a citizen, human being and a free member of the American society, just like Jim, therefore, has a right to fare trial and treatment as a human being and not as a property that someone can claim and possess without considering his own personal feelings. This is the quandary (Baker, 167). The Legal Defense Fund Based on the later relationship and existence of Jim among the free members of the state, He has enjoyed better living conditions where, his fundamental rights were upheld. He has thus realized himself, appreciated the role of the society more positively and has come to contribute positively and effectively to the development of the society in the state and America without fear of oppression (Baker, 146). The person claimed to be a property to someone has been enjoying this freedom and rights for over three years now and is happy to remain in this state. As a citizen, the law should allow him to make rightful choices of whether to get back to his original master, where he was the slave or live with his new employers as a free person of rights. The Hearing I have this case due to the fact that much is at stake with the previous ruling already delivered. We realize the supreme nature of the law and we also appreciate that human beings have their rights which the law should strive to protect in whatever circumstances. During the hearing of this case, we note that there was no jury as one of the legislations requirement for this country require. Further, we should note that North Massachusetts is a free state with specific legislations and principles on slavery though most of the time we have never had such complications to call on our state laws in regard to this matter but there is always precedence and thi s is one such circumstance (Baker, 210). It is therefore, highly significant that the above elements are considered in determining this case so as to ensure the slave, as we can not prove otherwise here in Massachusetts, can testify and make rightful propositions. The Procedures The procedures and legislations established by congress are legal and supreme as they form part of our constitution. We therefore realize that the Fugitive Slaves Act established by 1850 belongs to superlative laws, which this State must abide. As a free state, Massachusetts has established its own procedures aimed at ensuring that the rights of its citizenry towards fair legal processes are consistent. Though the Fugitive Slaves act govern the matters of slavery, the Massachusetts procedures should have been used to offer Jim a fair trial. We ask ourselves whether the rights of Jim to a jury trial were upheld and whether he was subjected to fair and due legal process. It is based on this that we can give a final verdict or ruling on this matter. Massachusetts is a free state and by purely abiding to the procedures outlined in the Fugitive Slaves Act, we undermine our own procedures and thus should reconsider this. The Fugitive Slave Laws Though the fugitive slaves Act only requires a hearing, which has been held so far, we should appreciate that this was not done according to the proced

Gone With The Wind Research Proposal Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Gone With The Wind - Research Proposal Example A good example of copyright issue that raised much debate is the relationship between Gone With The Wind (GWTW) and The Wind Done Gone (TWDG). Hence, this research will evaluate the copyright issues surrounding the conflict between GWTW and TWDG with reference to fair use and transformative elements. Research Question Does the re-write GWTW in the form of TWDG amounts to infringement of the copyright laws, and if so, does it violate the freedom of speech? Significance/ Discussion The significance of this research is to evaluate, and eventually understand the issues surrounding copyright laws. This is because copyright laws have certain exceptions, such as if the re-write of a given literary text is a satire or parody. No doubt, there are inadequate copyright laws that are effective in protecting the rights and creativity of the original authors. The big argument is that if the laws were stricter then they would violate the right to freedom of speech. According to Thampapillai in the article, The Novel as Social Satire: 60 Years Later, the Wind done Gone and the Limitations of Fair Use, the exceptions that parody or satire based re-writes do not amount to infringement promotes the freedom of speech that allows individuals to write what they think (Thampapillai). However, in some cases the copyright and freedom of speech may conflict, begging the question of which one should take precedence. This may take into account the utilitarian theory, which would advocate for the side that results in maximum benefits. For instance, it supports protection because it preserves the creativity of the authors. In the case of GWTW, Randall’s TWDG delivers the slavery story airbrushed by GWTW whereby it brings the accounts through a slave’s perspectives. Furthermore, the text draws some information from GWTW, which makes it re-write the GWTW story in a better way. Therefore, the aim of this research is to evaluate the relationship between GWTW and TWDG with regard t o copyright laws and all its related issues. The research will use several factors to evaluate in order to prove infringement or not. These factors include nature of the copyrighted work, effect on the potential market, and amount of suitability and finally use is for nonprofit educational nature or for commercial nature. These will help in evaluating whether the re-write in the case of GWTW amounts to infringement. Literature review In this research, I will present my arguments about copyright laws and issues surrounding using six texts or sources. In the first source, An Empirical Study of US Copyright Fair Use Opinions, Beebe explores the public perceptions on fair use and the copyright law in general. I will use this source to in my research to draw information on the status of copyright law of fair use with regard to the perspective of the public (Beebe 584). The main point of research will be whether fair use is beneficial of harmful to the literary industry, and how it can be regulated. This source will also provide information that I will use to compare the copyright law in the United States and that of Australia. The second source that I will use in the research is, â€Å"Free Speech and Intellectual Value†, an article by Bollinger, in which he explores the issue of free speech in relation to copyright law that my limit free speech (438). It will help me in understanding how promotion of free

Lab 2 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Lab 2 - Essay Example Bases cause the litmus to turn blue. Strength of a base is dependent on concentration of OH- ions produced. On the pH scale, basicity of a substance increases from 7 to 14: 7 being neutral and 14 being strongest base (one that generates maximum OH- ions when dissolved). Name two acid and bases that you often use. Acids: Milk, Orange Juice Bases: Soap, Tooth paste Cube Dimensions Surface Area (cm2) Volume (cm3) Surface Area : Volume Time Required for Complete Color Change Distance of Diffusion 1 cm X 1 cm X 1 cm 6 1 6:1 3 min 0.50 cm 1 cm X 2 cm X 2 cm 16 4 4:1 2 min 50 sec 0.30 cm 1 cm X 1 cm X 6 cm 36 6 6:1 2 min 42 sec 0.48 cm How did the surface area effect the diffusion of the cube? What about the volume? What about the surface area to volume ratio? Which of these had the greatest effect on the diffusion of the cube? Time required for complete color change is found to be approximately same for all three cubes (average time: 2 minutes 50 seconds) which concludes that rate of diffu sion of vinegar into the agar is same irrespective of shape and size. Further, volume had no impact on the time required for color change. No regular trend has been observed for distance of diffusion of vinegar inside the agar with respect to surface area or volume, when each is considered alone. Ideally, greater distance of diffusion should have been found in Cube B ( 1 cm X 2 cm X 2 cm) as compared to Cube A ( 1 cm X 1 cm X 1 cm) as it has the greater surface area (larger surface area enhances amount of diffusion); however, the irregular pattern reveals that there is a third factor that has a direct bearing on the distance of diffusion. Studying the results of the experiment, it becomes evident that surface area to volume ratio is the single parameter that majorly affects the amount of diffusion of vinegar into the agar. Cube A ( 1 cm X 1 cm X 1 cm) and Cube C (1 cm X 1 cm X 6 cm) having same surface area to volume ratio yield the same distance of diffusion. On the other hand, cub e B ( 1 cm x 2 cm x 2cm) tails at 0.3 cm. Even though greater amount of vinegar diffuses in to cube B than in cube A due to greater surface area, a larger time period is required for it to reach the center. In conclusion, the experiment demonstrates that depth of diffusion is lesser for materials having smaller surface areas to volume ratio than that with higher surface area to volume ratio. How does this experiment demonstrate the need for larger cells to divide? A cell meets its requirements for growth, repair and removal of waste materials through its cell membrane, the amount of transfer directly relating to its surface area. More so, the extent of movement of substances into a cell-towards its center- depends upon its size and volume. An increase in cell size is accompanied with an increase in requirements of the cell. More nutrients need to be diffused in and a greater amount of waste materials require to be diffused out. Consequently, a mechanism needs to be established that would allow a rapid transfer of substances through the cell membrane. As the cell is grows uncontrollably without division, the surface area to volume ratio decreases. This limits the distance to which substances diffuse into the cell, posing a restriction to the functionality of various components of the cell-especially those located towards the center. To counter this, it

Measuring Cancer Cost Behaviour under Prospective Payment System in Essay

Measuring Cancer Cost Behaviour under Prospective Payment System in Clinical Coding - Essay Example Either way, the increased economic disparities and healthcare challenges have necessitated a rational management of financial resources allocated for healthcare service provision. This paper looks at the role of managers in healthcare financing with respect to the functions of the National Healthcare Service. Besides, the paper provides a succinct discussion on the importance of clinical coding in promoting proper channelling of finances for purchasing healthcare services. In particular, this paper examines the role of clinical coding in measuring the cost of cancer care and how such data promotes evidence based decision making for equitable allocation of healthcare resources. According to Berger (2008), healthcare systems are organized in a manned that allows strategic achievement of three specific objectives. The first objective relates to collection of revenue from various sources including government, donors and individuals. The second objective of healthcare system is to enhance pooling of resources from all stakeholders such that the risk of ill health is shared among every member of the pool. Lastly, every healthcare system aims to provide an affordable and accessible platform of purchasing healthcare services that suits the best expectations of individual members of the society. With these objectives in mind, financial management of healthcare resources becomes a central focus at every stage in order to strike a balance between quality services and scarcity of resources as argued by Bodenheimer and Fernandez (2005, p.27). In the hierarchy of the National Healthcare Service, there are several healthcare trusts and public hospitals that work together to deliver health services to clients. Through the NHS, healthcare managers and commissioners are delegated the main duty of ensuring that various service providers deliver quality healthcare within the available financial resources allocated

American History Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

American History - Essay Example The technological advancement during the period gave rise to industrialization and modernization. Political change during this period is yet another major aspect of western society modernization, where different nations discovered the need and suitability of democracy, notably after the French revolution of 1848 (30). Following this political advancement, other countries such as Italy, Germany and Britain sought political unification. This period also saw the rise of socialism, which was opposed to aristocratic and dictatorial rules (46). To avert such political revolts, the western countries worked towards enhancing human rights, abolishing slavery and establishing parliamentary and political party systems, which protected liberties (65). Social-cultural developments also occurred, sparked by the need for the society to adapt to the industrial economy (18). The life styles and standards of living improved, coupled with a decreased death rate due to advancement in the medical technology. Labor movements emerged, seeking better working conditions and wages for workers. Thus, the housing, diet and nutrition as well as leisure for such workers and their families improved (72). In conclusion therefore, the period between the 18th and the 19th century saw great changes in various aspects of the western society take place. These changes occurred in various fronts such as the technological, political and social-cultural, paving way for modernization of the

Learning Styles Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Learning Styles - Essay Example I consider myself as a very critical thinker and talented problem solver and as such, I can build on this to improve my training skills since I will be able to think and train objectively. I approve the message in the ASTD video in regard to the fact that employee training is a vital part of business and enterprise growth; furthermore, training inspires innovation which is critical in today’s competitive business world. I am more of a reflective learner although at times my learning style is often influenced by prevailing circumstances, I believe identifying ones learning technique/s is imperative in helping them improve their self-perception as leaners and trainers and boost their chances of success in both. Student one intends to acquire the necessary knowledge to enable her develop training skills as well as improve communication skills in day to day life. She has considerable background knowledge and experience training and she supports the message in the ASTD video. She believes that employee training is a vital part of business growth and considers herself to be a reflective learner. Student two is interested in learning about the technical aspects of the training in areas like design and developments. He is experienced in using technological tools to facilitate training and has also taken part in face to face technical training session. Moreover, he believes he has developed a knack for deconstructing and explaining complex concepts as a result of working in an industry that allows him to combing his technological and communication

From the book Complete Office Handbook Third Edition for todays office Essay

From the book Complete Office Handbook Third Edition for todays office by susan jaderstrom chapter 2 - Essay Example Career advancement is quite relative. Darrel (2010) explains that â€Å"advancement means climbing the corporate ladder until you reach the executive suite.† People wish for advancement to improve their professional standing. It is however necessary to emphasize that the level one may want to reach is relative. Career advancement is not an automatic phenomenon in the corporate world. It actually takes the application of laid down strategies. It also take procedures to attain career advancement. One needs constant professional upgrading to be able to climb higher on the corporate ladder. Jaderstrom et al (2002) note that employers are giving premium to the professional competence rather than academic competence. This is indeed in the right sense. This is because the office is a place for the exhibition of one’s professionalism. Professionals who want to better their corporate standing must upgrade themselves. Those who want to secure their careers must do same. Professional seminars, workshops and furthering of one’s education improve career advancement. Jaderstrom et al (2002) laments that some employees only want to be ‘gainers’ not ‘losers’. Such employees only look at what their jobs can offer them. They do not think of what they can offer their companies. Employees must show positive organizational belongingness. Some of these are commitment, punctuality, promptness and organizational ethics. Showing this belongingness will improve their chances of building their career advancement. Such employees will not to fumble when they eventually take higher positions. If you do not know where you are going, any road leads you there. This axiom emphasizes the need for career people to have goals. One must have a goal of where one wants to reach. This must be marked with time. This is a good way of ensuring career advancement. For example an employee must know where to be by a certain time. This way, such an employee

The Workplace Challenge Essay Example for Free

The Workplace Challenge Essay Unit 5 serves students ages 14-21. The program matches suitable jobs for every adolescent through evaluation of their interests and developing skills for future jobs. (Shafallah 2007) Aside from these major programs, the school also offers clinical and therapeutic services as well as school health and nutrition oversights. The Students The population of students in Shafallah is 426 who are between ages three to twenty-one years. The students are with mild, moderate, and severe learning challenges. These are children, adolescents, and young adults with Down Syndrome, cerebral palsy accompanied by intellectual or developmental disabilities, and autism spectrum disorders and they make up the majority of our student population. Class size ratio of teachers to students is 1:3 in all school programs except the Autism Unit, where the ratio is 1:2. The Teachers There are currently 125 employed by the school. These are all professionals with varied expertise. Due to the limited professionals who have specific expertise in the fields needed by the school, many, about 25% of the teaching force are foreign nationals from the United States, Canada and other European countries, to serve for at least two (2) years in the school. The remaining 75% are from the different provinces in Qatar. All teachers in the academic unit are degree holders, mostly with masters and doctorate diploma with corresponding licenses in the fields of education, medicine and psychology. The age range is wide, from 25 years to 60. This includes teachers who are at the same time in the management level. The Management Policies and legislations in the school are made by the school board headed by Her Highness Sheikha Moza Bint Nasser Bin Abdullah Al-Missned, the Chairperson of the Supreme Council of Family Affairs. The executive functions are performed by the management team composed of 20 experienced professionals organized in the form of a Management Committee. The head is the Managing Director who is from the United States, followed by an Assistant Managing Director who is from Qatar. 75% or majority of the members of the ManCom are foreign nationals while 25% are from Qatar. The academic and service units are fully manned with leaders but it is noticeable though that in the backhouse, the school has not installed a department that will handle the concerns of human resource or a human resource department. In its absence, the public relations department handles the processing of teachers and other admin staff recruitment. On the surface, observing the transactions in the offices and the other facilities, the movements in the school campus, the school was seemingly operating normally. But as we dig deeper, we would find some areas of major concerns which should be cause for immediate and decisive actions by the school. The school has been experiencing high turnover of teachers for the past two years. Because resignations were frequent, recruitment which is done regularly by the Public Relations Department. The massive tasks in recruitment have eaten up much of the time of the PR staff, so that major functions of the department are de-prioritized. The ManCom with its American Managing Director concentrated on sourcing funds to augment to the schools facilities. The proceeds from the students’ tuition were not sufficient to finance the expansion programs and the upgrading of facilities of the school. The ManCom had to source for international funding agencies for additional support including the schools benefactor and strong advocate, Her Highness Sheikha Moza Bint Nasser Bin Abdullah Al-Missned, the Chairperson of the Supreme Council of Family Affairs, who is also the Chairperson of the school board. In the first quarter of 2007, the ManCom’s attention was called by the school board to solve complaints by the parents and the community about the declining quality of services provided by the school. This resulted to the ManCom’s creation of an adhoc committee to investigate the facts, study the causes of the problems and recommend solutions to the findings. The adhoc committee reported the major findings of their investigation. The complaints of the parents and the community were due to overcrowding of students in classes, where instead of 1:3 ratio, there were 10 students already being handled by each teacher. This was due to the lack of teachers handling specific subjects.

Understanding “Rule of the Bone” Novel Essay Example for Free

Understanding â€Å"Rule of the Bone† Novel Essay â€Å"Rule of the Bone† is one of the widely read coming-of-age novels is written by Russell Banks. The novel is written in a striking way as sad tones about the drama of living a life far from one’s family. â€Å"Rules of Bones† shows themes of weakness, failure, and the intricacy of leading an honest life associated to gaining total independence as a teenager. Readers of the novel are left with a lesson on the positive wisdom that comes along with optimism in every experience. Wisdom is said to be the quality of being wise and having the knowledge and the capacity to derive benefits from such knowledge. There are many accounts on how and where wisdom can be taken or learned from. Wisdom can largely be attributed from learning from lessons and practices initially taught to children and developed through aging. Experience is also considered to be the greatest teacher. People easily believe when experiences showed them the consequences of their actions, regardless if the outcome is a failure or a success. The main character Chappie (or Bone) faces a series of distinct events that has taught him to be wise and take an active and independent role. His transformation is also depicted on how his name evolved from Chappie, to a mix of Chappie and Bone, to totally Bone. The events gradually molded Chappie from being totally dependent to his parents, â€Å"semi dependent† on I-Man and to totally independent. The period of adolescence is marked by a conflict between self-identity and role confusion. Chappie is seen as an adolescent who started out as having to resort to illegal drugs and more crimes to sustain his dangerous habit. Chappie and his addiction to drugs is an example of how some people cope with a dysfunctional family. His family is composed of a nagging mother, abusive stepfather, and friends who are bad influences to him. I would say that Bones gained wisdom from knowing himself through the hardships and trials that came his way. The first few chapters of the novel showed an immature and rebellious character of Bones. Given the circumstances of his family and situation, the reader has their sentiments on Bones at the same time questions why Bones abandons his troubles and opted the wrong way out. At this point, Chappie or Bones turns to his friend for support. When Russ eventually abandoned Chappie, Chappie showed the readers that he has good intentions and not a bad kid after all. It showed how Chappie gained wisdom when he was partly independent. The self-discovery of the protagonist was reinforced when Chappie or Bones grew closer to I-Man. I-Man was instrumental to the self-discovery of Bones. He shared his insights on being independent most of his life. Bones loses his desire to take drugs when he learned from I-Man’s wisdom. The novel showed a change of attitude of Bones depending who he was with. When he was with Russ, he was very greedy and would take as much drugs as he can. When he goes to live with I-Man, he slowly loses his addiction and smoked only at certain times of the day. The newfound wisdom of taking drugs out of addiction from taking drugs for relaxation is similar to his friendship with Russ. Their friendship seemed to die when Bones lost contact with Russ and was influenced by I-Man. All of these experiences shaped and developed the wisdom of Bones on life and how he should lead his life. The type of wisdom that Bones attained is from his experiences wherein mistakes and blunders shaped him into a wiser and independent man. I believe that Bone ends the novel as a wiser and mature person. The concept of teacher and the student is exemplified in the novel. It is therefore important for adolescent to develop friendships having good influence on their lives. The sad and dramatic story of Bones offers a moral lesson to the youth about wisdom and courage. His friends namely Russ and I-Man have contributed to bone’s character and outlook in life. Russ served as a bad influence that encouraged Bone to smoke pot and go after pleasure. On the other hand, I-Man taught how independent really means by doing something with oneself. Bone defined his life when he was in Jamaica. He became an adult who knows that life is more than getting pleasures. The substantial evidence that Bone grew up to be a mature adult was when he decided to go back to America and finish school. His newfound independence made him a better, wiser person.

Literature Review of US Foreign Policy

Literature Review of US Foreign Policy Background America’s 1930s foreign policy was based on the realist school of thought. It emphasised international trade in order to achieve economic rejuvenation, whilst its security strategy demonstrated the practical restraints of Hans Morgenthau’s classical doctrine of realism through withdrawing its military’s international presence. Post-WW2 America’s role within the world hierarchy altered significantly as a direct result of internal structural and technological developments that led it to being a world superpower. American foreign policy encompassed both realism and liberal internationalism in its attempt to defeat communism. The 1970s signified a dramatic change in the foreign policy decision-making process; no longer were Presidents able to operate imperialistically making policy decisions without consulting Congress. Despite being internationally recognised as the victor of the Cold War, America lost its international footing somewhat. Political analyst Kenneth Waltz supports this assertion and argues in the article ‘Is Anybody Still a Realist?’ that foreign policy in a pre-9/11though post-Cold War era, aside from the widely accepted notion that States â€Å"at a minimum, seek their own preservation,† (Waltz, Kenneth. 1999: P.14), realism no longer played a leading role in foreign policy and national security decision-making. Roger Burbach and Jim Tarbell argue that US foreign policy and National Security Strategy since 9/11 has mirrored that of former powers on a colonisation mission. A key example used to demonstrate this was Bush’s desire to install a National Missile Defence (NMD) system in Europe. They ascertain that it was part of the regimes neoconservative, imperialistic agenda to impress upon the world American exceptionalism through attempting to colonise the globe by having a military capability world-wide under the notion of ‘national security.’ (Burbach, Roger Tarbell, Jim. 2004). The US government opposes such a claim maintaining that its actions are part of an assertive-realist security strategy seen previously within the Cold War era which confronts threats to America. They argue that like America’s proactive response to the attack on Pearl Harbour, the last time America had suffered such devastation on US soil, that 9/11 warranted a similarly aggressive response. Benjamin Frankel supports this and argues in ‘Realism: Restatements and Renewal,’ that it is neo-realism, not neo-conservatism which recognises â€Å"the ultimate concern of states is not for power but for security†¦states seek maximum security not maximum power.† (Waltz, Kenneth. 1988. in Frankel, Benjamin.1996: P.91). President Roosevelt’s description of the attack on Pearl Harbour as a â€Å"date which will live in infamy,† (Roosevelt, Franklin D.A Date which will live in infamy: FDR ask for a Declaration of War), have been echoed since 9/11. Bush proclaimed the â€Å"world has changed† (Cramer,Jane K. Thrall, A. Trevor. 2012: P.30) as a direct result of 9/11 and therefore had to adapt his leadership style and policies accordingly. Literature Review This dissertation has used many sources to gain valuable information such as facts, figures, diagrams and the opinion and analysis of distinguished politicians, historians and authors. US foreign policy is a broad and complex subject which can be approached from multiple angles. Due to the restrictive word limit, this thesis has confined itself within certain boundaries which specify what direction this thesis is going to approach the title. Through critically analysing these sources, it has been possible to develop a deeper understanding of the topics examined and have helped greatly in contextualising the arguments found within the background and contemporary research. This has played a crucial role in the final conclusion reached. These boundaries are that the time scale used will be between the 1930s to the end of the George W Bush presidency. This time frame has been selected because of the opposing military policies that were used and the economic, social and international implications that such directions were to have; one being isolationist and the other being expansive. Chapters two and three have also been divided in a two-part manner. Chapter two addresses the mentality behind the decision-making process as well as the actions taken in the years preceding Bush’s presidency. Chapter three examines the mentality and actions taken during Bush’s reign. These boundaries have been drawn up in such a wa y that allows for analysis of events in a chronological order. Additionally, the ‘mentality’ has been chosen because it allows for the thesis to address multiple arguments and through thorough analysis determine if the mentality behind the decision-process has been altered and if so, has this affected the actions taken. These boundaries provide a clear sense of structure which is augmented with the aid of the many sources examined. There are a select few sources which will now be addressed due to their crucial role in initiating key arguments and theories throughout the thesis. In his article ‘The Stability of a Unipolar World,’ William Wohlforth provides an important analysis regarding the impact of the structural and technological advancements experienced in the US. Wohlforth argues that it is’ because of â€Å"a decades-old policy of harnessing technology to the generation of military power†¦The US combination of quantitative and qualitative material advantages is unprecedented, and it translates into a unique geopolitical position.† (Wohlforth, William C. 1999: P.17-18). This thesis supports this assertion and uses it as a key argument throughout to provide explanation behind America’s actions and the mentality with which such actions were conducted with. This dissertation comprises a variety of theoretical debates, all attempting to provide clarity and reasoning behind America’s actions both pre and post 9/11. Richard Rose’s ‘The Postmodern President: The White House Meets the World’ is used to provide support and elaborate on this thesis’ suggestion that after 1991 the â€Å"United States has lost its former position of dominance in the international system.† (Rose, Richard.1988:P.237). This was primarily because it could no longer justify having an expansive foreign and security policy to develop its sphere of influence through either hard or soft means as there was no longer an apparent enemy. Craig Snyder provides support for this assertion and further adds a theoretical argument in his book ‘Contemporary Security and Strategy’ that the influence of realism endured a significant decline during this period of relative peace in its use in international relations as well as national foreign policies. (Snyder, Craig A. 1999: P.65). No thesis which incorporates political theories and realism in particular, would be academically justifiable without the thoughts of world-wide acclaimed political analysts Kenneth Waltz and Hans Morgenthau being examined. Morgenthau’s work has been used when analysing the traits of classical realism to see how, if at all they relate to Bush’s actions. This thesis has paid particular attention to the work of Waltz, the founder of the concept of neo-realism, to argue that as opposed to the realist based expansive foreign policy agenda that existed during the Cold War era, States have since pursued neo-realist policies in which they aim to achieve: a sense of continuity in long-term goals, policies which are compatible with the ever-globalising international arena, clear objectives with simple directions to achieve them whilst maintaining a certain degree of flexibility to allow for adaptation to the fluid nature of the international stage. (Waltz, Kenneth.1999). Post-9/11, US foreign policy has often been interpreted as some of the most controversial around the globe. This is because they have been perceived as part of America’s apparent neoconservative agenda devoted to establishing an Imperial America. Roger Burbach and Jim Tarbell are two academics who support such a notion and argue in their ‘Imperial Overstretch: George W Bush the Hubris of Empire’ that the impact of 9/11 provided Bush’s regime with the fuel to pursue his extreme neo-conservative goal of creating a US Empire. The critical and negative wording of the title is such that even without reading any of the actual book, Bush is already portrayed as a leader who has been corrupted by the desire to create an empire. Therefore, in order to maintain academic legitimacy, this thesis recognised that Burbach and Tarbell are obviously biased against the Bush administration. This is not to say that their work should be dismissed, because it shouldn’t, but rather caution should be – and has been – applied when selecting what information to use from their book in this dissertation. Particular attention has been given to George C. Herring’s ‘From Colony to Superpower: US Foreign Relations since 1776.’ This is because this book provides a great insight into US foreign policy history and does so whilst exhibiting thorough analysis of events throughout this time. It has helped this writer significantly in developing a deeper understanding of events that have occurred and placing them in the relevant context. Articles, quotes, resolutions and speeches by Bush’s administration and even himself are all examined in this thesis. This is because they provide raw clarity and reasoning behind the decisions made post 9/11.As president of the world super-power, the American people looked to Bush to act and respond to this terrorist assault. In an address to the nation on 9/11th he stated that America â€Å"will make no distinction between the terrorists who committed these acts and those who harbour them.† (Bush, George W. quoted in Kean, Thomas H. 2004. P.326. The National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States.). Such a statement sets the rigid and uncompromising tone with which Bush was to significantly adjust his foreign and security policies to deal with the situation. Understanding the mentality behind Bush’s decisions is of vital importance to this thesis because if the mentality is proven to have affected the manner in which foreign policy was decided a nd implemented, and if this is different to the various American administrations, then this will playing a determining role in answering the dissertation question. It is for this reason that Bush and his teams’ speeches, articles and resolutions are analysed in great depth throughout this thesis.

Theme of Self-discovery in The Awakening and A Dolls House Essay

The Theme of Self-discovery in The Awakening and A Doll House      Ã‚  Ã‚   In Chopin's The Awakening and Ibsen's A Doll House, the main characters each experience an awakening. Although they lead different lives, Nora Helmer and Edna Pontellier's respective awakenings are caused by similar factors. From the beginning, neither character fits the standard stereotype of women in the society in which they lived. Another factor that influences Nora and Edna's awakenings is their marital relationship. Neither Nora nor Edna are treated as an equal by their husband. When each woman realizes that she is unhappy, she understands that she must leave her position and role in life in order to fully find herself.    Nora and Edna are not perfect models of the late nineteenth century woman. Women in this time period were under the control of either a father or a husband. Each woman was expected to become a wife and mother. Both Edna and Nora have nurses to care for their children, taking over the role of mother. In The Awakening, Edna is described as a woman who is "not a mother-woman" (Chopin 10). During the summer at Grand Isle, the other mother-women watch their children carefully, clothe them, bathe them, and take care of them. Unlike the others, Edna walks the beach while her children are being protected by their nurse. Edna's sentiments toward her children are best described in Chopin's narrative: "She was fond of her children in an uneven impulsive way. She would sometimes gather them passionately to her heart; she would sometimes forget them" (24).    In A Doll House, Anne-Marie is the nurse who watches over Nora and Torvald's three children. Anne-Marie is more of a mother to the children than Nora is. For example, when the... ...ad to their respective awakenings. Edna and Nora are not typical nineteenth century women in respect to their roles as mother and wife. They both have marriages in which true love does not exist. Later, each must leave her life to discover the woman who lies hidden inside.    Works Cited and Consulted: Chopin, Kate. The Awakening. The Norton Anthology of American Literature. Ed. Nina Baym et al. 2nd ed. Vol. 2. New York: W. W. Norton & Co., 1985. Durbach, Errol. A Doll's House: Ibsen's Myth of Transformation. Boston: Twayne, 1991. Ewell, Barbara C. Kate Chopin. New York: Ungar, 1986 Henrik Ibsen, A Doll's House. Dover Thrift Edition, 1992 Martin, Wendy, ed. "Introduction." New Essays on The (Awakening. New York, NY: Cambridge UP, 1988. Templeton, Joan. "The Doll House Backlash: Criticism, Feminism, and Ibsen." PMLA (January 1989): 28-40.

Liquid Diets Essay -- Dieting Obesity Papers

Liquid Diets Obesity is one of the most common problems faced by people today. Since thirty-four million Americans are estimated to be obese, one out of every three Americans must live with this disorder. Obesity is defined as a body weight consisting of 20% or more above the standard ideal weight (http://www-med.stanford.edu/school/DGIM/Teaching/Modules/obesity.html#RTFToC12). In order to reduce obesity, most invest in diet and exercise programs. Recently, liquid diets have been positively modified, thus rising in popularity since their fall out during the late 1970’s. Out of the twenty million dieters, about one billion dollars will be spent this year on either medically sponsored liquid diets or over-the-counter liquid diet products (http://www.thriveonline.com/@@uwUQ@wQAMB†¦ve/health/Library/CAD/abstract13110.html). Even though many companies claim their diet produces safe and effective weight loss, many medical researches express their concern for various health risk conseq uences. PURPOSE OF TREATMENT The main purpose of liquid diets is weight loss. Many people have a low self-esteem concerning their looks and feel that weight loss would improve their outer appearance. Losing weight tends to boost self confidence by giving a feeling of accomplishment which is an incentive to lose more. Most of the over the counter liquid diets are invested by people who are not necessarily obese, but interested in taking off the excess weight. Liquid diets are also widely used to improve health conditions. Dieting results in weight loss which indirectly can decrease health risks. "If all Americans were to achieve a normal body weight, it has been estimated that there would be a 3 year increase in life expectancy... ...Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 60(2):249-54, 1994 Aug. Kretsch, MJ., MW Green, AK Fong, NA Elliman, and HL Johnson. "Cognitive effects of a long-term weight reducing diet." International Journal of Obesity & Related Metabolic Disorders. 21(1):14-21, 1997 Jan. Seim, HC., JE. Mitchell, C. Pomeroy, and M. de Zwaan. "Electrocardiographic findings associated with very low calorie dieting." International Journal of Obesity & Related Metabolic Disorders. 19(11):817-9, 1995 Nov. Shovic, Anne Caprio, PhD, Susan Adams, Jane Dubitzky, and Melody Anacker. "Effectiveness and dropout rate of a very low calorie diet program." Journal of the American Dietetic Association. 93(5):583-4, 1993 May. Walsh, MF and TJ Flynn. "A 54-month evaluation of a popular very low calorie diet program." Journal of Family Practice. 41(3):231-6, 1995 Sep.

Euthanasia Devalues Human Life Essay -- Arguments Against Euthanasia

â€Å"Euthanasia is the practice of ending the life of a patient to limit the patient’s suffering. The patient in question would typically be terminally ill or experiencing great pain and suffering. The word â€Å"euthanasia† itself comes from the Greek words â€Å"eu† (good) and â€Å"thanatos† (death). The idea is that instead of condemning someone to a slow, painful, and undignified death, euthanasia would allow the patient to experience a relatively good death.† The technical definition of euthanasia is the act of ending life painlessly, often someone suffering from an incurable illness. However it is impossible for any life to end free from pain. The actual killing may be peaceful, but the suffering endured throughout the disease will never be forgotten and the heartbreak felt by the family due to the untimely death of a loved one will live on forever. Euthanasia is an extremely controversial issue dividing professionals in both the medical and legal fields. Some argue that individuals have a right to die and death is a choice. Those against euthanasia argue that, â€Å"Death occurs because a fatal pathological condition is allowed to take its natural course, not because those who have removed life support intended to kill the patient. Rather, their intention is to stop doing something useless or to stop imposing a burden on the patient.† (Yount 23) The Netherlands, Belgium, and the Northern Territories in Australia are among some of the countries that recognize Euthanasia as legal. In the Netherlands, euthanasia accounts for over five percent of the nations deaths (â€Å"Facts and Statistics on Eutanasia†1). In 1997, the United States Supreme Court passed the Death with Dignity Act in Oregon, which stated that physician assisted suicide is ... ... more efficient and safe ways to prevent more intense suffering. The minds of those committing suicide are often insane, therefore those making the decision to euthanize are not in the proper mental state. Euthanasia is also not completely safe and effective. In many cases complications occur such as vomiting and intense muscle spasms. Also in a significant number of cases the drugs provided did not result in the desired outcome, meaning then the physician has to inject other fatal concoctions by hand, breaking their Hippocratic Oath. If euthanasia becomes completely legal it will allow a price to be placed on human life, and provide the mentally ill with a legal outlet to give into their disease. Even though a life stolen by euthanasia is supposedly painless, the pain endured by a premature death will live on in the hearts of their loved ones forever.

Do Schools Kill Creativity?

Dallin Bringhurst February 12, 2013 1st Persuasive Essay There is much anonymity when it comes to knowing who is an Eagle Scout. I feel that an Eagle Scout conducts a life style that represents a good person. The scout law states: â€Å"A scout is trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent. † John Proctor holds many traits that are similar to an Eagle Scout. I will focus on three basic aspects of the scout law and how John Proctor relates to them. First, I will relate how John Proctor shows bravery in the face of death. Then, I will argue how he is loyal to his family.Finally, I will demonstrate that he is helpful. These three basic traits are taught inculcation by many leaders in our community. I will now go into further detail on my topics. First, bravery is a rare trait, especially when faced with death. John Proctor demonstrated bravery by standing before a Judge and taking blame for the girls’ bla sphemy behavior. John Proctor says, â€Å"I speak my own sins; I cannot judge another. I have no tongue for it. † (page 131) John Proctor remained brave throughout the trail as he testified before Judge Danforth. He says, â€Å"Because it is my name! Because I cannot have another in my life!Because I lie and sign myself to lies! Because I am not worth the dust on the feet of them that hang! How may I live without my name? I have given you my soul; leave me my name! †Ã‚  (page 138) His bravery ultimately led to his fateful death as he was sentenced to be hung. Second, loyalty is something that bonds relationships. Being a loyal person is having high values. I see it as giving up something that can offer immediate happiness for something that has lasting happiness. John Proctor struggled with being loyal to his wife because he had an affair with another woman; he was licentious in his behavior.John becomes more loyal to his wife when she was accused of being a witch. The following quote by John Proctor proves that he is loyal to his wife. He says, â€Å"‘I'll tell you what's walking Salem – vengeance is walking Salem. We are what we always were in Salem, but now the little crazy children are jangling the keys of the kingdom, and common vengeance writes the law! This warrant's vengeance! I'll not give my wife to vengeance! ‘† Act 2, Scene 4, pg. 73. He also says, â€Å"Life, woman, life is God's most precious gift; no principle, however glorious, may justify the taking of it. † (Act IV).To be loyal is a great attribute in life because it will show how good a person really is. John was a good person for remaining loyal to his wife throughout the trails. Finally, I will talk about being helpful to others by starting off with a quote by Clarence Darrow: â€Å"The best that we can do is to be kindly and helpful toward our friends and fellow passengers†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (â€Å"Clarence S. Darrow quotes 1998-2005†). We must be helpful to others who are in need of out help. John Proctor is seen as a very helpful man. In the book he is being found helping his neighbors out with their farms or cutting wood.In conclusion, I have just gone over the three basic attributes that I believe makes a good person. I related how John Proctor continued to be brave when faced with death. Then, I argued how he remained loyal to his wife. Finally, I demonstrated that he is helpful. These three attributes relate to John Proctor in many ways as he uses these life style choices in his life throughout The Crucible. John Proctor is a good man in a world plagued with evil. This final quote sums up the man that was John Proctor, â€Å"It is rare for people to be asked the question which puts them squarely in front of themselves†.

Prominent Philadelphia lawyer Essay

1. Thomas Abraham Clark, the son of a prominent Philadelphia lawyer, was born to extreme wealth. He was educated at home by private tutors, and entered local politics at a very early age. He soon rose to the top of his state in politics. Having traveled extensively in Europe, he is obsessed with the tyranny of European governments. He has corresponded with Samuel Adams, Richard Henry Lee, Patrick Henry, and Thomas Jefferson. He is convinced that a strong government headed by a king is and has been, the curse of mankind throughout history. Under the Articles of Confederation, Thomas’s law practice has prospered, but he is concerned over the inflated value of some colonial currency. †¨Ã¢â‚¬ ¨Thomas Abraham Clark is a †¦ A.Federalist B.Anti-Federalist C.Undecided Thomas Abraham Clark is best categorized as an Anti-Federalist. He is fearful of the tyranny of strong, centralized government. Thomas is also established as a political leader at the state level. He has corresponded with, aligned with prominent anti-federalists of his time. He is satisfied with the Articles of Confederation (anti-federalist agreement). His only concern that links him to Federalism is that of inflated value of some colonial currency (i.e., a federally regulated monetary system would address this issue). 2. Josiah Bartlett was born the son of a farmer. He has little formal schooling, but has read extensively. At twelve, Josiah left home to serve an apprenticeship as a cooper. By the age of eighteen, Josiah set out to make his mark in his state. Working as an overseer on small plantations, he soon saved enough money to begin buying land of his own, and by 1775 he owned half the land in his state. Rather than operating large scale and exclusively slave plantations, Josiah invested in smaller farms operated by indentured servants. He ships a great deal of cotton to Europe. His economic interests are threatened not only by unstable currency, but by high tariffs and taxes imposed by neighboring states. †¨Ã¢â‚¬ ¨Josiah Bartlett is a †¦ A.Federalist B.Anti-Federalist C.Undecided Josiah Bartlett would be viewed as a Federalist. Although he is a self-made made man from humble beginnings—not the typical profile of the Federalists—he has financial concerns about the unstable and inconsistent economic structure of a loose confederacy that may affect his overseas exporting business. A more stable national economic system, afforded by Federalism, would be in his best interest. 3. Edward Heyward is a member of the landed aristocracy of Georgia, his substantial wealth came from the inheritance of large tracts of land. Heyward, like most of the people in his state, is extremely provincial in his outlook, having had little contact with foreigners outside his state, other than slave traders. His lack of contact with the outside world and his relative wealth have convinced Edward that things have gone splendidly after independence from Britain. His concerns are the Indian tribes of Western Georgia. They are well organized and ably led. Since he has considerable money invested in western land, he would like to see a united effort against the Indians. †¨Ã¢â‚¬ ¨Edward Heyward is a †¦ A.Federalist B.Anti-Federalist C.Undecided Edward Heyward may best be classified as undecided. He is satisfied with the governance of the Articles of Confederation. Edward doesn’t deal in interstate or overseas commerce, so the economic/monetary regulations possible through Federalism are not a concern of his. He is concerned about the possibility of an Indian uprising in his home of Georgia and how that might affect him financially. His support for a united stand for control of Indian aggression would be indicative of Federalism, as the U.S. Army would come to be the force used against such aggression. 4. Patrick O’Neil was born in Hanover County, Virginia. He was largely self-educated. From 1751 until 1760 he was an unsuccessful storekeeper and farmer. Notoriously indifferent to his private fortunes and ineffectual in his own business, he has made the public his main concern. He is a great orator and by some is called the â€Å"voice of the common man.† During the Revolution he served in the House of Burgesses and as governor of Virginia. He was a member of the radical faction which opposed the King before the revolution, and on a number of occasions swore he would give up his life before his freedom. †¨He has always thought of himself as a common man. He feels the rights of the people must be protected from all privileged classes, and he has always been a champion of popular rights.†¨ A.Federalist B.Anti-Federalist C.Undecided Patrick O’Neil is an Anti-Federalist. He is a vehement supporter of popular rights and the interests of the common man. O’Neil is not concerned with business in general, nor the practical economic benefits that might be afforded under Federalism. He was vocally opposed to the Monarchy before this was a popular stance, and would logically be against any form of centralized power in government. He has been a prominent leader in Virginia’s government and would be seen as favoring more authority for state governments as provided by the Articles of Confederation. 5. Tom McKaan, like other lads of sixteen, ran away from home in 1776 to serve in the Continental Army. He was with Washington’s troops at Valley Forge. A slight limp–he lost two toes from frost bite–serves to remind him of that long, hard winter. But his time in the hospital changed his life. An officer in the next bed, in more peaceful times a professor of English, taught Tom to read, as a means of whiling away the time. Tom was an apt pupil. His first primer, Thomas Paine’s Common Sense, was the only book the professor had with him. Tom continued his own education when he was mustered out of the army. In the last ten years he has traveled and spent time in every state, making his living as a journalist. He is well aware of the problems facing the American colonies. He sees the â€Å"Spanish-Indian Conspiracy† as a great threat to American growth and the revolt of Daniel Shays as the beginning of the end for stable government.†¨ A.Federalist B.Anti-Federalist C.Undecided Tom McKaan would best be termed undecided. He was indoctrinated in Anti-Federalism by the writing of Thomas Paine. He continued his education, became a journalist, traveled the country and broadened his horizons. He became concerned with the â€Å"Spanish-Indian Conspiracy† and Shays rebellion. This indicated that he perceived the need for a national standing army and that he questioned the ability of the present government to deal with foreign and domestic threats and protect the citizenry. He was seemingly beginning to lean toward Federalism. 6. Francis Whipple was born to wealth in the colony of Massachusetts. During the war years his family sent him to England to be educated in the ministry. After his return from his studies abroad, Charles decided that the economic survival of his state depended upon the acquisition of more land, and that political survival depends upon a strong central government to protect Whipple and his class from the increasing restlessness of the masses. Charles is forever preaching that man’s instincts can never be trusted, that only strong government offers security. He feels that property rights must be protected and that the â€Å"masses† must be kept in their place. After seeing the results of Shays Rebellion, he feels the common people should have little or no voice in government.†¨ A.Federalist B.Anti-Federalist C.Undecided Francis Whipple is Federalist. He believes the privileged few should largely control politics and that they need protection from impulsive uprisings of the uneducated masses. He believes a central government should be empowered to purchase and annex territory for the state. Whipple believes a strong federal government should protect the property rights of the landed gentry. These are primary tenets of Federalism. 7. Clymer Fitzsimmons is a frontiersman from the Northwest. He lives in a sparsely populated area. His father and mother were killed by the Indians during Pontiac’s Rebellion. He has little formal education, but he has no equal in the woods. He was wounded at the Battle of Saratoga, and still carries an English â€Å"ball† in his right lung. He was captured later in the war and spent two years as a British prisoner. He is sure that the British government intends to suppress the colonies newly won independence. He believes in a well armed population and a large, well organized militia. Clymer has been little affected by the Articles of Confederation and he is basically satisfied with the present economic situation. He is suspicious of those colonial gentlemen of wealth and English custom. He resents the present state government because he is not allowed to vote, since he owns no property. A.Federalist B.Anti-Federalist Undecided Clymer Fittsimmons is best classified as an Anti-Federalist. He is suspicious of the elite aristocracy and doesn’t entrust them to handle the governance of the new country. Clymer believes a citizen militia is the answer for protection from potential enemies of the new nation. The main objection he has with the government is that his state denies him the right to vote because he is not a landowner. This probably intensives his distrust for the elite and promotes the idea that they would gain more power through Federalism.

Native Son: analysis of rhetorical strategies Essay

Max concludes his argument for Bigger’s life with a speech in a final attempt to persuade people to see the greater good in letting him live. His purpose is to convince that public as well as the judge that Bigger’s violent nature is spawned from the oppressive society that keeps him and other African Americans in constant fear and poverty. He achieves success in articulating his points by employing various rhetorical strategies: similes, cause and effect, and comparison. The speech is punctuated with similes. He uses them to relate Bigger and society to other parts of life. â€Å"The complex forces of society have isolated here for us a symbol, a test symbol. The prejudices of men have stained this symbol, like a germ stained for examination under the microscope.† This simile shows how the white public looks down upon the African American population as a â€Å"germ† or plague of society, under constant interrogation and examination. Max extends this simile by relating society to a â€Å"sick social organism†. He describes the â€Å"new form of life†, the African American oppressed as â€Å"like a weed growing from under a stone†, which expresses the immense burden of the white public. Max also illustrates the African American lifestyle as â€Å"gliding through our complex civilization like wailing ghosts; they spin like fiery planets lost from their orbits; they wither and die like trees ripped from native soil.† This shows the aura of distress and hardship of the African Americans. Max tries to explain that Bigger is the product of a racially oppressive society in which all African Americans must live by using the strategy of cause and effect. â€Å"What Bigger did†¦ was but a tiny aspect of what he had been doing all his life long! He was living, only as he knew how, and as we have forced him to live.† He describes Bigger’s offenses as results of their own actions. In reference to the hardships that the white society consciously forces upon the African American population, Max states: â€Å"We know this evidence for we helped create it.† After stating all the oppressive and dominative actions taken upon the African American society, he speaks of the murders as being obvious end products, which should have been expected. â€Å"We planned the murder or Mary Dalton.† In order for Max to eliminate the obvious racial bias that was present in the minds of the public, he employs comparison. He highlights the fact that because he is black, his crimes are completely indefensible and horrible. Max dismisses Bigger’s villainous persona by comparing him to the freedom-fighting patriots that founded America. â€Å"These twelve million Negroes, conditioned broadly by our own notions as we were by European ones when we first came here, are struggling within unbelievably narrow limits to achieve that feeling of at-home-ness for which we once strove so ardently.† Max’s speech combines the rhetorical strategies of similes, cause and effect, and comparison to convey his views on racial maltreatment and persecution. He effectively illustrates the very parts of society that caused Bigger’s actions, and makes an notably moving case for Bigger’s life.

Cmr Enterprises Essay

CMR, originally Mike’s Cabinets, is an architectural millwork business that competes in two different market segments: commercial and residential. In order to effectively compete in both markets, the nature of CMR’s business varies slightly between them. Commercial business provides two-thirds of the company’s projects as well as 80% of its sales. Due to the higher volume in demand, the commercial sales force is larger than the residential sales team, which relies heavily on CMR’s showroom. The market for commercial business is larger than residential market with projections of its value at upwards of $5 billion. Commercial contracts are also harder to secure than their residential counterparts. They must be bid on and won. Due to the heavy competition for these larger commercial contracts, the â€Å"got rate† for them is around 32%, whereas the residential â€Å"got rate† is around 69%. CMR’s residential department has to operate some what differently than the commercial facet of the company. First of all, project management requires a different degree of flexibility in order to meet ever-changing customer requests. Cash flow cycles are about four to six weeks, which is significantly shorter than the 6 months or more it takes for a commercial cycle. With less indirect labor and lower material costs, residential work actually boasts a higher net margin as well. The main difference between CMR’s nature of business between segments is the customer relationship factor. Residential customers require a softer approach with more face-to-face exposure. Commercial customers are primarily concerned with finding the lowest bid. However, CMR is building relationships with many contractors in attempt to make their jobs easier and potentially work with them in the future. Although CMR treats every customer as equally important, the commercial customers are arguably more valuable. 35 of the top 50 contractor prospects for 1999 were commercial contractors. Furthermore, commercial business typically achieves higher revenues and is likely the only means of meeting CMR’s aggressive growth goals. When Sam Marcus and William Walters bought Mike’s Cabinets in early 1997 they knew they were going to need to change some things abou t the way their business operated. Mike’s Cabinets was running very well as a small town cabinet shop that worked on projects for homeowners as well as large commercial buildings, and had a very good reputation with the people of Lincoln,Nebraska. Although things were running smoothly with the business, Sam and William wanted to produce more profits, and increase cash flows. Blackstone Homes was a homebuilding company that started only two years before Marcus bought Mike’s Cabinets. By the time Marcus was in charge of CMR, Blackstone was one of the largest homebuilders in the area. The president of Blackstone Homes approached Marcus in the fall of 1997, with the idea of starting a partnership. Blackstone was having problems with their current supplier because they couldn’t seem to deliver the cabinets when promised. Marcus was initially intrigued by the sheer volume of work they would be doing with Blackstone, but he thought it would be a great fit with where he was planning for his company to go, and seemed like a great way to make progress towards his profit and cash flow goals. Marcus had to work with his employees and overall business plan, but decided that the residential side of the business was worth expan ding, so he signed a contract with Blackstone Homes. Marcus’s decision to sign with Blackstone Homes was a very good idea for CMR Enterprises. Blackstone had great potential to become one of CMR’s largest accounts, and promised to have continual yearly growth. Blackstone agreed to specify only CMR’s cabinets in all their homes, and CMR assigned a project manager to work exclusively with their new partner. Both companies could see that they would both be benefiting from this partnership from the very beginning, and they were correct. Throughout the first year, Blackstone contributed heavily to CMR’s success, and eventually grew to be about 25% of the residential side of the business. Marcus saw that the residential side of the business had great potential for future growth, and he knew that this was a great way to get his company involved. The additional emphasis on residential work used more of the company’s resources, but it proved to be worth it with the increased revenue and cash flows. CMR Enterprises is confronting an issue with one of its most valuable clients, Blackstone. Blackstone as one of the biggest customers in the area, giving CMR an opportunity for immediate market share and his volume supported its goals to standardize its processes into flexible cells. They approached CMR looking for a new partner to work on a business that represented 25% of CMR’s residential business during the first year of this relationship. Sam Marcus was counting on further growth with his customer to pay his debt and fund expansion efforts. But relationshipswith Blackstone had become increasingly intense on residential construction. Marcus had aggressive goals of reaching $70 million in sales by 2007 by creating a scalable and replicable business model. Moreover, build close relationship with the Blackstone will gave CMR an opportunity to standardize its business processes to be able to benefit from improved operational efficiencies that comes because of scale of operations. However, the relationship between two companies had evolved unpleasantly over time. When Blackstone sells a house, it does come with a pre-finished and installed kitchen, which is included in the price. But if customers want to check CMR’s showroom, they would build these w oodworks according to their new specifications. So the added cost will then be charged to the contractor. After an increase in CMR prices, Blackstone transferred this increase to subcontractors, so impacting considerably their margins and making CMR looked as a too expensive product. This issue to some extent contributed to the clash with Blackstone. Also, internal miscommunication had played a part in this episode. Marcus had implemented a software system for the company, called InfoCentral, and insisted that the residential team use InfoCentral for all internal communications. But it did not work out the way he expected. The system is not frequently updated as required by the employees. The business relations between the two companies started well and was fulfilling for both part. Revenues from Blackstone represent a significant part of revenue growth of the year. However, when the business expended, so did the problems. What was more disappointing was that CMR had shown a weak ma nagement of its relationship with this big client and several operational failures that need to be controlled. Within CMR Enterprises, revenue is generated at different rates in the different segments. Commercial business is responsible for 82% of the revenues generated by the firm, leaving just 18% to residential. Not only do they generate revenue at different rates, but profit is generated at different rates as well. According to the CMR Enterprises Factsheet, SG&A Costs were $2,900,000. If we distribute these costs according to percent of revenue generated across the CMR’s business segments, we see that the commercial segment provided a Net Profit of $1,124,152 for a Net Margin of 15.5%, while the residential segment provided a Net Profit of $87,632 for a Net Margin of 5.4%. Blackstone’s Net margin of 5.7% is actually greater than the Net Margin for the residentialsegment without Blackstone. Net Profit from Blackstone for the year was $17,235. In the second scenario, SG&A costs were assigned in a different way. Indirect labor was assigned to the corresponding segment. SG&A expenses besides indirect labor were then distributed to the segments according to percent of revenue generated. This tells a different story. Whereas in the first scenario the commercial segment was responsible for almost 10% more Net Margin; in the second scenario, residential Net Profit was $274,632 for a Net Margin of 17.2%, while commercial Net Profit was $937,152 for a Net Margin of 13.9%. In this scenario Net Margin from Blackstone is only 13.3% of revenue, which is below the average for residential. The cause of the difference between the scenarios is the high number of administrative personnel assigned to commercial work. From the CMR Enterprises Factsheet, we see that there are 43 administrative personnel, of which only 4 are dedicated to residential work. This leaves 39 employees working on commercial work at an average of $50,000 per year, a total of $1.9 million dollars. Scenario 2 captures this more fully, placing a more realistic percentage of SG&A costs onto the commercial segment. Blackstone’s profitability is slightly less than that of the commercial business, and nearly 4% less than the residential business. Terminating the relationship with Blackstone would be a good choice in the situation for CMR Enterprises. It is obvious that Blackstone provides a significant amount of residential business, which means a substantial cash contribution to support CMR’s other business like commercial work. Especially in the initial partnership, CMR first grabbed residential market share and earned 25% more of its residential business and Blackstone benefited from CMR’s expertise and correction. However, some potential loss shows the general trend that CMR benefit less and less in the partnership with Blackstone. First, CMR acquires more profit per shop hour in commercial business than residential work. According to Exhibit 7b, the highest residential revenue per shop hour of $48.13 is less profitable than the lowest commercial revenue per shop hour. Even though we recommend letting Blackstone go as a client, the residential business on a whole is profitable and should be kept. It is integral to the companies’ core values, and provides a valuable link to the community. Moving forward with franchising efforts, however, we would advise sticking to commercial business. If CMR is to attempt to make headway into new markets, it would be advantageous to proceed with a strategy that is more singular in focus. CMR has had success implementing their InfoCentral tool in their commercial business, and it seems that they have a good business model going forward. Trying to replicate the success that they’ve had with the residential business would add unwanted complexity to their business model. CMR’s current residential customer base is there as a result of years of loyalty and good service from Mike’s Cabinets. This loyalty would not exist in a new market.