Fast Food Industry

I Source: Food and Agro Business Monitor, October 2001; Company websites; News articles One testament to the windows of opportunity and growth in the industry is the rise of Mango ‘nasal, the country's fastest growing barbecue fast food chain, which after only eight years, is already 390 stores strong as of July 2011. Despite the presence of industry giants and having been established first in the Visas, Mango ‘nasal has shown that there is enough room for new players given the right product at the right price. As in the past, Jollied sensed an opportunity and acquired a controlling share of Mango ‘nasal.On the other hand, Jollied sold its Deliverance business unit and stopped operations of its carrier-inspired food chain Mango Epee stores, which will eventually be converted to its other brands. Owing to the popularity of coffee hops and the Filipinos growing penchant for drinking coffee, Jollied also entered the coffee shop business through a Korean-based restauran t brand, Cafe It-ammo. It was launched in 2010 and has already three branches offering Goleta and coffee in a business as a strategy to gain market share and offer a less expensive but quality coffee experience.Most of the other major players in the industry have also expanded led by Pizza Hut, McDonald's, and Shakes. Some Jollied mandolin's stores in Metro Manila are undergoing renovation to improve store appearance/image and better serve its customers. Chicken many KEF slowed down partially due to the effects of the Asian financial crisis to the Armco Group but it has since recovered. In 2008, Armco acquired Tokyo Tokyo, the country's leading Japanese fast food chain. Armco also owns the master franchise of Mister Donuts in the country which has over a thousand shops nationwide.Products, Variety, and Value-addition The major traditional types of fast food chains are still the hamburger chains, chicken houses, pizza/pasta parlors and Chinese food chains. However, other fast food ch ains are catching up like the donuts chains, coffee shops, barbecue houses, bakeshops and Filipino food chains. While the food offerings in fast food stores are essentially within the type for which the chain was established, the available products are already a mix of food items wherein the banner product may not be the most popular. Jolliness's Chicken]oh, for instance, may be as popular if not more popular than its Hamburger.It also has Filipino dishes like beef tap (smoked beef),longhairs (local pork sausage), and crispy Bangui (militias). Chocking, a Chinese fast food, has also Filipino food like benevolentness, kangaroo (water spinach), longhairs, beef tap and halo-halo. McDonald's, a burger chain, also has longhairs in its menu. Roasted chicken chain Kenny Rogers, for its part, offers other food items for the health conscious like roast chicken, healthy plate, high protein meal, high fiber meal, low calorie meal, grilled chicken/sausage/fish meals, and vegetable salads.KEF, P izza Hut,Shakes, and Wend's also have vegetable salads in their menu. Wend's was first to offer a salad bar and the first fast food to enter into a memorandum of agreement with the Department of Health in support of its Healthy Lifestyle Campaign. There is also continuous new product development eke Cuff's Double Down (all-meat, no-bun sandwich), Wend's shrimp sandwich and abstractor, Showing's Chinese-style fried chicken, and Jolliness's crunchy chicken burger, sweet and sour meatballs and chicken nugget crunchers.Part of product development is seasonal offerings especially during Lent, when people try to fast and abstain from meat. Some products that come out at this time are tuna pie and fish twister. Other than the product mix and variety, fast food chains also offer affordable alternatives for the budget-conscious. The price of the budget items can range from a low of POP. O for a Burger McCoy or apple pie, POP. O for Jolliness's beef with mushrooms and rice to a high of POP. O for Cuff's Wow Slit Meal of I-piece chicken, rice, and regular drink (Table 3). Table 3.Value for Money Food Items, July 2011 | Company I Budget Food Items I Price (PH) I Jollied I Rice Meal errs, Value Meals | 39. 00 – 55. 001 Chocking I Value Kings, combo Kings 1 29. 00-87. 001 Mango ‘nasal I Slit Meals, Built Meals | 49. 00 | McDonald's I Value Meals, Massacre Meals, Everyday Massacres | 25. 00 – 55. 00 | KEF I wow Burger, wow slit Meals 1 30. 00-89. 001 Wend's I super value Menu | 37. 0 – 62. 001 Source: Company websites; internet search Over the years, fast food chains have also added a new value to their relationship with loyal customers with the use of patronage cards.Some of these cards include Shakes Pizzicato Supercargo, Pizza Hut's Palm card, Angel Pizza's Privilege card, mandolin's Midnight card. For the pizza chains, the card allows the customer to buy one box of pizza and take one box for free. On the other hand, the Midnight card allows cus tomers to get free items on orders from 12:01 am to 3:59 am. The promotions are valid only within a prescribed period. A Still Growing Industry A number of factors and strategies, both external and internal to the fast food industry, are contributing to its continuing growth.Boos The growth of the business process outsourcing (BOO) industry has enhanced the eating out habits in the country as Episcopalian have a 2417 work schedule. Major fast food chains have adapted to this changing lifestyle with a 2417 restaurant business hours in strategic locations close to the Boos. McDonald's and Wend's were one of the pioneers in the 2417 delivery service. Given the company websites, there is also the facility of ordering on line and allowing fast foods in Backbone and Twitter.Locations expansion of malls and supermarkets around the country is another plus factor for the fast food industry. The on-going and planned Allay, Purebred, Robinsons, Shoppers and SMS establishments will be providing the space and foot traffic for the fast food chains' expansion. Pricing Value pricing or value meals will continue to be a strategy for fast food chains, as surveys still indicate low prices as a reason for choosing a fast food restaurant. Another price proposition is the unlimited rice promotion of some stores like Mango nasal, Tokyo Tokyo, and recently, Tropical Hut.Movie tie-ins Another strategy to stimulate frequent store visits is the fast food tie-in promotion of hit movies with the offering of limited edition gadgets, collectibles, and food items like Captain America in Jollied and Dunking' Donuts and Transformers in KEF. McDonald's is also offering Coca Cola can glass collectibles. Branding Fast foods also use a sort of â€Å"multiple-branding† to draw more customers by offering a large number of items whereby several fast food chains are located side by side. This is the case of Jollied beside Chocking, Greenwich, and Red Ribbon.Chains like the Armco group have also started co-branding where a Mister Donuts kiosk is in a KEF store. Bank tie-ups As a meaner to increase patronage of credit cards, companies like the Bank of the Philippine Islands, Banc De ROR, and Metronome have tied-up with some fast food stores where customers can redeem promotional freebies based on amount charged to their credit card. The fast food stores include Jollied, Chocking, Mango ‘nasal, Backlog ‘nasal, Goldbricks, Greenwich, and Pizza Hut. This win-win scheme is expected to enhance repeat usage for credit card companies as well as increased sat food store visits.Value propositions some fast food stores provide newspapers and free Wi-If internet connection. Many chains are also remodeling their facilities; expanding their selection of desserts, beverages, snacks and breakfast items; adding grilled items; reducing fat and sodium; and catering to customers with diabetes or gluten intolerance. Some chains, particularly in developed countries, are also caterin g to a broader range of customers with hall-only or kosher food in their menu. Major companies have also set up foundations which implement their corporate social responsibility initiatives.Prospects There is a lot of optimism and positive outlook as expressed by major players. Jollied Foods Corporation has revised its target upwards in 2011, and plans to open 160 stores in the country across all its brands. The company is looking at a 12-15 percent growth for the year with expected brisk sales and lower raw materials cost, and provided there will be no major spikes in inflation and petroleum prices. Mango ‘nasal for its part is targeting to hit 500 stores by 2012. McDonald's is planning to build 20-30 stores every year in the next five years.For instance, artificial strawberry flavor food The regular consumption of Junk food is the leading factor in obesity and excess weight. Obesity is second only to smoking as a cause of death in America. 46 percent of Canadian adults are e ither overweight or obese, with obesity in children increasing threefold over the past two decades. Consumption of soft drinks containing sugar has been linked to weight gain and an increased risk for development of Type 2 diabetes. Studies have revealed that obese people have wick the rate of chronic health problems as people of normal weight.This includes 100-percent greater chance of developing Type 2 diabetes, 50-percent increased likelihood of developing heart disease. Obese men are nearly 90 percent more likely to get colon cancer. Junk food diet is a major cause of heart diseases. High cholesterol resulting from Junk food puts undue strain on the liver, causing long-term damage to this essential organ. Research has suggested that diets high in fat may also impair essential brain functions, like concentration and memory. The nun food facts about soft drinks alone are alarming. Fast Food Industry Sharp makes use of illustration in â€Å"Berger Queen† in several body paragraphs.   Her overall thesis is that McDonald’s really isn’t that bad of a job and she’s actually enjoyed it, so when she went from a pre-med major to an English major, her life did not get any worse.   In paragraph two, she again uses narration, as in paragraph three.   In paragraph four is where Sharp begins to utilize Illustration to back up her points.   The topic sentence, â€Å"†¦respect for the workers of the fast food industry is lost among most adults†¦Ã¢â‚¬  is supported by several examples, one being, â€Å"†¦grown men driving Lincoln Town cars have bickered with me for five minutes over a measly ten cent increase in the price of an egg mcmuffin.†Paragraph five goes into further illustration of the point made in paragraph four.   Paragraph six also uses illustration.   The topic sentence, â€Å"A small portion of our patrons are so con fused that there is really nothing to do but wait for them to leave† is supported by, â€Å"my most prominent example†¦is the infamous snack attack lady, who ordered hotcakes and sausage during our 90-second- guaranteed-service hour and then ate her breakfast right outside the drive-thru window.†Ã‚   Paragraph seven also incorporates illustration.   The topic sentence, â€Å"there are some great customers out there† is supported by the explanation of those great customers and what they do, â€Å"If I missed a day of work, I would return to inquiries about my health and concern that all was well.†Ã‚  The first paragraph is a narrative and uses dialog to express her point and to draw the reader into the story

Absolute Poverty

POVERTY What is poverty? Poverty is the economic condition in which people lack sufficient income to obtain certain minimal levels of health services, food, housing, clothing, and education generally recognized as necessary to ensure an adequate standard of living. What is considered adequate, however, depends on the average standard of living in a particular society. Relative poverty is that experienced by those whose income falls considerably below the average for their particular society. Absolute poverty is that experienced by those who do not have enough food to remain healthy. However, estimating poverty on an income basis may not measure essential elements that also contribute to a healthy life. People without access to education or health services should be considered poor even if they have adequate food. CAUSES OF POVERTY One of the greatest challenges facing many least developed countries especially in the African continent is the worsening scourge of poverty with its attendant effects of unemployment, malnutrition, illiteracy, HIV/AIDS and destitution. There are many causes of poverty complex and multi-dimensional in nature. They involve among many others gender inequality, economical, political and social exclusion. Therefore any intervention measures designed to respond to the challenges above should be judged by their ability to positively make a significant dent on poverty at a micro level (lower levels of society such as the households or individual levels). There should be a clear linkage between macro level policies and micro level impacts in terms of reducing poverty or at least providing an environment for poverty reduction. Such a policy should be able to facilitate the delivery of basic needs to ordinary citizens and these include access to affordable food, health, education, shelter, water and sanitation, public information among many others. No one should be alienated from these basic and fundamental human rights on account of one’s poor economic status. IMPACT OF POVERTY ON BUSINESS OPERATIONS When a person doesn’t have disposable income he/she make purchases of commodities, goods and services. Therefore many cannot increase their sales. Production output drops. Some companies put their staff on short time. This further reduces disposable income. Financial sectors do not grant credit to low- income earners therefore the financial market suffers. Inflation rises. The GDP of the country drops. The price of goods and services increase. The people with low income and those that receive social grants do not have enough many to but commodities. Companies that do not make high turnovers cannot plough moneys back into communities for social upliftment. ALLEVIATION OF POVERTY BY THE GOVERNMENT Aid refers to the net flow of official development assistance provide by governments, international agencies, and public institutions of the industrialized countries. The term is also used to encompass help (both material and technical) provided by non- governmental organizations (NGOs) and voluntary agencies to countries and people in need, particularly for disaster or emergency relief. The overall portfolio of assistance of a donor, or the range of aid I provides to a particular country, is often referred to as its aid programme. The various recognized categories of aid such as: Bilateral aid * Project aid * Grant aid * Technical assistance * Emergency aid/Disaster relief * Food aid * Voluntary aid GLOBAL POVERTY! IS BUSINESS THE ANSWER? When activists discuss the way less developed countries have missed out on the benefits of globalization, Multinational Corporations are often portrayed as the villains. But to some, they are the solution and the only one. CONCLUTION In conclusion I would just like to say that we, as South Africans, need to show the world that we are strong and we are better prepared for global turmoil than we previously were. WE ARE HERE TO STAY!! Absolute Poverty POVERTY What is poverty? Poverty is the economic condition in which people lack sufficient income to obtain certain minimal levels of health services, food, housing, clothing, and education generally recognized as necessary to ensure an adequate standard of living. What is considered adequate, however, depends on the average standard of living in a particular society. Relative poverty is that experienced by those whose income falls considerably below the average for their particular society. Absolute poverty is that experienced by those who do not have enough food to remain healthy. However, estimating poverty on an income basis may not measure essential elements that also contribute to a healthy life. People without access to education or health services should be considered poor even if they have adequate food. CAUSES OF POVERTY One of the greatest challenges facing many least developed countries especially in the African continent is the worsening scourge of poverty with its attendant effects of unemployment, malnutrition, illiteracy, HIV/AIDS and destitution. There are many causes of poverty complex and multi-dimensional in nature. They involve among many others gender inequality, economical, political and social exclusion. Therefore any intervention measures designed to respond to the challenges above should be judged by their ability to positively make a significant dent on poverty at a micro level (lower levels of society such as the households or individual levels). There should be a clear linkage between macro level policies and micro level impacts in terms of reducing poverty or at least providing an environment for poverty reduction. Such a policy should be able to facilitate the delivery of basic needs to ordinary citizens and these include access to affordable food, health, education, shelter, water and sanitation, public information among many others. No one should be alienated from these basic and fundamental human rights on account of one’s poor economic status. IMPACT OF POVERTY ON BUSINESS OPERATIONS When a person doesn’t have disposable income he/she make purchases of commodities, goods and services. Therefore many cannot increase their sales. Production output drops. Some companies put their staff on short time. This further reduces disposable income. Financial sectors do not grant credit to low- income earners therefore the financial market suffers. Inflation rises. The GDP of the country drops. The price of goods and services increase. The people with low income and those that receive social grants do not have enough many to but commodities. Companies that do not make high turnovers cannot plough moneys back into communities for social upliftment. ALLEVIATION OF POVERTY BY THE GOVERNMENT Aid refers to the net flow of official development assistance provide by governments, international agencies, and public institutions of the industrialized countries. The term is also used to encompass help (both material and technical) provided by non- governmental organizations (NGOs) and voluntary agencies to countries and people in need, particularly for disaster or emergency relief. The overall portfolio of assistance of a donor, or the range of aid I provides to a particular country, is often referred to as its aid programme. The various recognized categories of aid such as: Bilateral aid * Project aid * Grant aid * Technical assistance * Emergency aid/Disaster relief * Food aid * Voluntary aid GLOBAL POVERTY! IS BUSINESS THE ANSWER? When activists discuss the way less developed countries have missed out on the benefits of globalization, Multinational Corporations are often portrayed as the villains. But to some, they are the solution and the only one. CONCLUTION In conclusion I would just like to say that we, as South Africans, need to show the world that we are strong and we are better prepared for global turmoil than we previously were. WE ARE HERE TO STAY!!

China and India Essay

Classical China and India had differences and similarities in religion, society, and technology/ inventions. In China, there were 3 major religions while in India there were only two. China had three social groups in which the people were placed. India had the Caste system that included five levels. The people of Classical China invented some important items while in India, major advances in astronomy, medicine, and math were being made. China’s religious and philosophical views were different from India’s because they had distinct faiths. China’s major religions/ philosophies were Confucianism, Daoism, and Legalism which focused on peace with the world and worship of ancestors. India’s major religions, Hinduism and Buddhism emphasized reincarnation. Although different religions, both Chinese and Indian lives were the same in that religion formed a big part of their day, whether Confucianism, Legalism, Daoism, Hinduism, or Buddhism, a lot of time was devoted to worshiping their faith. India and China both used a system of grouping people socially. Even though different methods, the people lived according to their group. Most of the religions like Hinduism, Confucianism, and Legalism accepted these social groups. India’s Caste system consisted of five levels. Moving up in a social class was nearly impossible in both China and India. In the Caste system, the people were arranged in hierarchical and patriarchal levels. On the other hand, the three social classes of China were: the landowners, the peasants, and at the bottom were the mean people. When it comes to advances in intellectuality and inventions that influenced our world today, China and India were very different. China and India were different in intellectual advances because they gradually made a move forward, but in different fields. China invented paper, a major item still used today. To help make the production of crops easier, the Chinese invented the water powered mill. Another grand advance of classical China was an accurate calendar still used in China today. While in India, they were making life changing discoveries. In astronomy, they determined the length of our solar year, they identified the seven planets, and they calculated the circumference of our planet earth. Because of infections and diseases, they developed vaccines to immunize and protect their population. Classical India also learned to sterilize wounds. India and China had different levels of thinking, but both made important discoveries that impacted the world. In conclusion, China and India were very different, yet alike in many aspects. They were different in religion, society, technology, and inventions. These differences and similarities made up the classical civilizations of India and China.

Arguing that restrictive state abortion law DO NOT violate the right Essay

Arguing that restrictive state abortion law DO NOT violate the right to privacy set in ROE v. WADE - Essay Example The right of privacy is broad enough to encompass a woman’s decision on whether to terminate pregnancy or not. According to UN there are set committees created to ensure governments’’ compliance with their treaty obligations. The committee on the elimination of discrimination against women (CEDW) states that it is the duty of states parties to ‘respect, protect and fulfill women’s right to health care. The committee also raised concerns to unsafe abortion particularly in cases of rape. Such incidence also has raised the mortality rates in the world. When the case of Roe v. Wade was decided in January 1973, abortion except to save a woman’s life was banned in nearly two thirds of the state (Payment, 2004). The banned made women’s organizations to fight for the right to access safe and legal abortion, and surprisingly international human rights law support their claims. Since 1973, in the decision of Roe v. Wade by the Supreme Court, states have constructed a lattice work of abortion law, codifying, regulating and limiting whether, when and under what circumstances should a woman abort. The denial of a pregnant woman’s right to make an independent decision regarding abortion violates or poses a threat to a wide range of human rights. The CEDAW committee has consistently criticized restrictive abortion laws that endanger a woman’s life. The UN committees suggested that women have a right to decide independently in all matters related to reproduction, including the issue of abortion. Roe a single woman in Texas sought a declaratory judgment that the Texas criminal abortion statutes were unconstitutional on their face, and an injunction restraining the defendant from enforcing the statute. She alleged that she was unmarried and pregnant and she wished to terminate her pregnancy by abortion. The abortion was to be performed by a competent

Best Companies to work for Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Best Companies to work for - Essay Example uch as ‘Shrek,’ ‘Madagascar’ and ‘Kung Fu Panda,’ including other popular animated films like ‘Shark Tale’ and ‘Chicken Run’ to name a few. DreamWorks Animation SKG did a great job of communicating the work philosophy of the company. They in fact included a comprehensive statement on the website where a link was provided titled careers on the bottom part of the main page. â€Å"We are committed to fostering a culture that embraces innovation, creativity, collaboration, and a solid dose of fun† (DreamWorks Animation SKG, par.1). The company provides a very flamboyant take on attracting potential employees. The website also has a link to a picture gallery of the office grounds which has landscaped gardens, a basketball court, lobby with a huge replica of Po from ‘Kung Fu Panda,’ snapshots of employees happily at work, a lounge equipped with a pool table and outdoor eating area, its total area amounting to six acres. There were also testimonies from employees on what their job entails and how it affects the films the company makes. The company does follow through with a number of perks they offer to employees including free breakfast and lunch, exclusive movie screenings and other complimentary facilities like yoga classes, company parties and art classes to nurture creativity where everyone is encouraged to join, at times even personally by the company’s CEO Jefferey Katzenberg (Fortune, pars.1-2). The company puts emphasis on the diversity of their employees where there is a multitude of nationalities from all over the globe. DreamWorks maintains that they â€Å"are constantly searching for experienced leaders and enthusiastic emerging talent who share a passion for telling stories and making movies to join our ever growing DreamWorks family† (par.3). The company is the kind of employer that allows its employees to explore their creativity and would be an ideal place to work in and a company to work for. I would definitely consider working

Your father runs a small auto body shop. He has decided to computerize Essay

Your father runs a small auto body shop. He has decided to computerize his records and has asked you to explain the basics of accounting - Essay Example Assets in the balance sheets include money, financial records, notes receivable, catalog, prepaid operating cost, office materials, equipment, apparatus, vehicles, structures, and real estate. The law for asset accounts shows that they ought to augment with a debit entry and reduce with a credit entry. The standard balance for an asset account is debit. The standard balance of any financial credit is the entry type, debit, or credit. This augments the account when saving transactions in the periodicals and redistributing to the ledger. Liabilities, on the other hand, include debts and obligations, which may include accrued expenses, salaries payable and sales tax payable in the balance sheet. For the equation to balance, recording of the liability account increases in an opposite way of the assets. Stakeholders’ equity is the net assets after deductions have been made. The deductions depend on the company. Depending on spending, the stakeholders’ equity either increases or decreases. Income statements reflect on revenue expense activity. In the balance sheet, retained earnings make part of the stakeholders’ equity. These earnings remain after deductions have been made on all the expenses and net income. Journal entries that would affect the balance sheet are any item that is related to assets, owner’s income, and liability. Examples are machinery, creditors, and stakeholders income. Journal entries that would affect the income statement are any expenses, and revenues. Assumptions that have done include entity concepts, principle of reliability, principle of cost, principle of going-concern and the concept of stable-monetary unit (Agtarap-San,

Developing a Conservation Plan for Pinery Park in Ontario, Canada Essay

Developing a Conservation Plan for Pinery Park in Ontario, Canada - Essay Example The management plan of the park should consider the region that surround the park in general. The overall effort of the management will be of future benefit to the parks and the surrounding environment as a whole. Proper management of the park will highly contribute to the increase in the social tact among the local programs. The realization of conservation goals for Pinery Park requires strategic plans for easier management of the whole landscape that includes the areas that are set aside for either production or protection. Reserves alone are not sufficient for life conservation but they are the real basis mostly on which national plans are constructed on. Reserves have two main roles. They should be the real sample or either they should represent the biodiversity of every section. On the other hand they should detach this biodiversity from any of the processes that intimidate its diligence. Existing reserve systems like the PINERY Park contains prejudiced sample of biodiversity, u sually that of remote places and other areas that are unsuitable for viable activities. A more systematic approach to locating and designing reserves has been evolving and this approach will need to be implemented if a large proportion of today's biodiversity is to exist in a future of increasing numbers of people and their demands on natural resources. The extent to which the park will achieve and fulfill its goals is when they meet two main objectives that will lead them to their success the objectives are a long-lasting goal and representativeness these are the two main keys that are needed for full variety of biodiversity. The Pinery park management needs to set 1.2million dollars. The money should be allocated to a control program that will see different species in the park that require different amounts of space to complete their life cycle. A finding of the most reserves in the world clearly indicates that most of the worlds well known reserves contain very rear species. that would not persevere as inhabitants even for a single generation if in any case or to some extent they became secluded like for the oak tree that is found in the park. This tree is not found in most parts of the world the demand of the products is endangering the species making it rear in the forests. Many other reserves, without supplementation by unreserved habitat, would be likely to lose species in the long term through a variety of chance events. Thus, the long-term persistence of some taxa requires sustainable populations across entire landscapes or regions as predicted. Many species exploit chronological dissimilarity by moving between dissimilar habitats, requiring targets to distinguish key habitat combinations where these can be identified. The focal species approach attempts to amalgamate patterns and processes by identifying those species in a landscape that are most demanding of resources and then targeting them for organization. The kinds of resources needed by crucial species may be, for example, big areas, connectivity flanked by environment patches and multifaceted assorted habitats. However the other confronts that the park need to look at is the protection of river Ausable. The area around the river is currently being occupied slowly making the shows to deteriorating since the occupants are using the land for housing. This river is the

Biome(biogeography) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Biome(biogeography) - Essay Example The savanna includes a variety of soil types that include sands, loam and clay. Laterization is the dominant soil- forming process. Herbivory has important effects on soil nitrogen cycling. Grazer induced increases in N mineralization have generally been observed resulting in increased N availability to plants. Elephant population at high densities can have significant impact on the dynamics and functioning of savanna ecosystems. They have the capacity to transform habitats which results in consequences like reduced population of some species of mammals, birds and plants. Importance: They can sustain long periods of drought and grow in sandy places where there is only between 12 to 15 inches of rain a year. In addition these provide shade for animals, its leaves are edible and are consumed by the animals and its branches are used to make nests and are also used as perches. Importance: These are herbivores, and feed on grasses, fruits, tree leaves, bark, shrubs, and vines. They help to keep the savannas clear by eating shrubs and trees which helps the grass grow. This in turn helps in the survival of other grazing

Issues of Freedom and Power Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Issues of Freedom and Power - Essay Example Economic freedom- Knights of labor Knights of labor, a major labor union during the 1860 hold a significant role in the evolution of economic rights in the United States. The formation of Knights of labor was the first efforts in the national labor organization because it was among the first labor unions to rally its members behind a goal. Nonetheless, the Knights of labor were a secret union characterized with less political pressure on its members. Uriah Stevens was the founder of the Knights of Labor, with many of his followers being Irish immigrant who were mainly Catholics. As a labor union, the Knights of labors enrolled members in various states to champion for improved rights of workers. Formed at a time when the United States repressed freedom of expression, the Knights of Labor worked in secrecy often recruiting its members using oaths and rituals. The main thrust of Knights of labor was to advocate for better economic reforms in their industries. At a time, when most of the immigrant received little pay and poor working conditions, the Knight of Labor became the ultimate vehicle to push for meaningful economic reforms. While the Knights of Labor avoided using industrial action, some of its members in states like Chicago were ready to strike. In 1886, about 80,000 people marched through Chicago supporting an eight-hour work shift. The long working hours were one of the main reasons that prompted the demonstration by members of Knight of Labor. This ignited confrontations between the Knights of Labor and the police who wanted to maintain law and order. In a social perspective, the Knight of Labor represented a growing awareness of rights among the workers. For instance, the call for an eight-hour work shift displayed a growing interest in social welfare among the workers.ii Most important, the meeting and demonstration among the workers guild indicated that rising level of social empowerment among the workers. Largely, the Knight of Labor has achieved many social gains because of its transformation from a secret labor to expressing its interest in various cities. Knight of Labor also championed for an end to child labor, a phenomenon that had characterized the American Labor environment. The political manifestation of 1960 would be incomplete without mention Knight of labor. Within the Knight Labor, there were some groups with interest to take control of the union. After leading a series of strikes, the government sentenced Albert Parson to death. This event made Lucy Parson seek ways of saving men that the government had convicted for deaths during strike. After visiting Europe in 1888, Lucy returned back American expressing new optimism in labor movements as she addressed workers and pressurized the state to create more projects in order to employ people. Political freedom (Progressivism- muckrakers and reform) The political freedom in the United States is a product of struggles that defined and helped create meaningful political reforms. With growing interest for political reforms, a group of Journalist joined hands to highlight on the wrongs of government through the literary works, which they published in magazines such as The Saturday Evening post McClure’

Issues in gglobal development Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4500 words

Issues in gglobal development - Essay Example The bags look very elegant and girlie. The range also includes make-up bags, umbrellas, lamp shades and stationery. Nowadays in big posh markets Clippy kits are being sold including Selfridges, Harrods and John Lewis. The Clippy products are also being sold at plenty of boutique-type shops across the UK and a growing number of stores in Europe. There have been celebrities also such as Jools, Jamie Oliver and Helena Bonham Carter who were seen with such Clippy bags. At the start of the business, they had to develop their product and brand but after the recession they concentrated on more sales. Most of the independent shops were lowering their orders so that they can again reassess the company. They enjoyed the way the product started getting developed but it got to the stage where they focused on increasing their sales, thereby targeting the Japan market. This paper will try to analyse how clippy bags can expand its global presence. In this age of globalization, it is very necessary to go global. Clippy Bags has itself recognised this need and has tried to take into account global expansion strategy. But till now it has concentrated its business mainly in europran markets and Japan. A significant potential markets is still unexplored. This paper will first look into the current exporting strategy of Clippy bags, then it will move on to analysing the internatioanl business strategy that it can consider for its global development. For this purpose, this paper will consider theoratical perspectives a s well as preactical considerations. 2. Strategies for global expansion: 2.1 Exporting and importing: The business woman Calypso Rose has run the stationary and accessories business since when she was just 23 years of age. The brand name Clippy has become a successful international venture across six different markets thereby strengthening its base in UK with the help of London International Trade Team of UK Trade and Investment (UKTI). (GLE, 2010) The company which w as owned by the mother-daughter team has doubled their export turnover in the year 2009-10, and during the first half of 2010, they have secured new international deals worth of 45000 dollar, which was a direct impact after a market visit of Japan. The entrepreneur Calypso Rose explained that she began by making one bag on the kitchen table for herself only. The bags became very popular among the masses. At that time she was on the first rung of a TV career, but it was a matter of weeks before she decided to change direction and start up a new venture on business. (GLE, 2010) Clippy established a strong foothold in the UK market before their potential for international success was recognized in 2007 by Gail Williams, UKTI London International Trade Adviser (ITA). Gail encountered the firm at a home, giftware and fashion trade show, and saw that the innovative, customizable, design-led, product range of handbags, makeup bags, umbrellas and stationery accessories of Clippy were highly suitable for overseas markets. It was not long before the company was benefiting from expert UKTI advice about the giftware sector in the UK and around the world. (GLE, 2010) Calypso said that the strategic advice of Gail Williams at the early stage of their export journey was really useful, which in turn enabled them to put Clippy in an international

Hills Like White Elephants Essay Essay Example for Free

Hills Like White Elephants Essay Essay 1. I believe â€Å"the American and the girl with him† were talking about having an abortion, and how it would change their relationship if they were to have a baby. He was saying that it is the only thing â€Å"bothering† them and making them â€Å"unhappy.† The girl appears undecided, and scared of losing the man. 2. Nothing really happens, except a rehashing of their relationship, which seems to consist of looking â€Å"at things and try[ing] new drinks.† 3. Their relationship is not about communication, but about the girl following everything the man says   because she doesn’t care about herself. She just wants him to love her. He tries to manipulate the girl to agree to the abortion, saying that things between them will not have to change, and that â€Å"things will be like they were,† when she felt he loved her.   He keeps speaking about â€Å"letting the air in,† which makes me think that he wants there to be â€Å"air† in the relationship, and that the non-operation would make him—not them happy again. He feels stifled, and this pressure is reflected in the hot day. The relationship is â€Å"airy† and superficial, without direct communication, because the man does not truly care about her and is concerned only with his interests, and the girl doesn’t care about herself, so she decides to want to do what he thinks is best. 4. The conflict of the story is resolved when the girl decides to have the abortion. The climax is when Hemmingway uses the adjective â€Å"reasonably,† when describing the people waiting for the train. It is a commentary that the man was thinking â€Å"reasonably,† but not from love, even though he says he is. He made his decision out of reason, and she out of emotion. 5. The hills are described as very fertile and the opposite landscape as very barren, and it seems to represent the barrenness of their relationship, as well as the discussion about abortion. 6. I would like to know why the girl said, â€Å"’I’ll scream.’†

Homosexuality in the Christian Church Essay Example for Free

Homosexuality in the Christian Church Essay Homosexuality is defined as consistent fantasy, interest and arousal toward a person of the same sex. Disagreement exists about the explanation of homosexuality. On the other hand, evidence supports the fact that homosexuality has existed throughout the history of humankind and is not just a development of the 20th century. Early psychoanalytic theory concluded that homosexuality developed from conflicts derived from early developmental disturbances. Investigators more in recent times have explored neuroendocrine explanations as a cause of homosexual development. The results of these studies have been controversial. On the other hand, a lot of experts believe that sexual orientation, whether heterosexual or homosexual, is the consequence of a multifaceted interface flanked by anatomic and hormonal influences during fetal growth. As investigators attempt to reply the question of etiology, others have worked to further define the incidence of homosexuality. Cognitive and communal expansion throughout adolescence is an intricate progression characterized by the acquisition of a sense of self-separate from family, a sexual independence, the capacity for intimacy and the ability to be autonomous. (The Christian Science Monitor) For those young people who grow a homosexual orientation in a society based on heterosexuality, the changeover all the way through adolescence is expanded and expressed to some extent in a different way throughout the stage of acquiring a sexual uniqueness. Interviews with gay and lesbian youth specify a general pattern in which an adolescent accepts his or her own homosexuality. It is the sexual orientation toward people of the same sex. Homosexuality contrasts with heterosexuality, sexual orientation toward people of the opposite sex. People with a sexual orientation toward members of both sexes are called bisexuals. Female homosexuals are often called lesbians. In modern years, the word gay has been applied to both homosexual men and women. Homosexuality appears in almost all societal contexts within unlike community settings, socioeconomic levels, and cultural and dutiful groups. The number of homosexuals in the inhabitants is not easy to find out, and dependable data do not subsist. Nevertheless, current estimates propose that the term homosexual may relate to 2 to 4 percent of men. Estimates for lesbians are lesser. Not all people who slot in homosexual commotion essentially classify themselves as homosexual. (Zgourides, G. ) The move toward greater unity among Protestant denominations has continued in the 21st century; however, within denominations there is still conflict between conservatives and moderates or liberals. One for the most part divisive issue is homosexuality. Denominations debate whether to ordain practicing homosexuals and whether to bar clergy from performing same-sex marriage ceremonies. Some churches condemn all homosexual activity, while others refuse to do so. Consequently, according to the same religious law that many of them use when religiously citing the gay and lesbian community, countless, reputable Christian leaders today, especially within African America, are in a word adulterers. However, you will not readily read of religious leaders publicly denouncing the social and spiritual validity of their fellow divorced clergy who have married more than once, like you will their `cry loud and spare not public cries relating to gay and lesbians desiring the equal choice and right to marry only once. There exists no evidence that suggests Jesus ever discussed same-sex anything, publicly or privately, during his ministry. However, Christ, the bedrock of modern-day Christianity, did publicly condemn religious leaders of his age for granting bills of divorcement. However, wading through all the hype in the media these days one might just conclude the opposite. (Knutson, D. C. ) It is considered an act of unconditional grace to say that the immeasurable, unmerited grace available from God stops only at the sin of adultery. Does Gods amazing grace cover only those sins of Old Testament law that are socially comfortable by todays standards? Let me put it another way: Is divorce (absent of unfaithfulness) a sin? Many Christians might respond, and there is plenty of scripture to back that up. Then will God consider the bed of that remarried person defiled? Most would probably respond, No, absolutely not, because of the New Testament law of grace, and there is plenty of scripture to support this. Christian churches historically have discriminated, excluded, and persecuted homosexuals on the basis of their sexuality. The emergence of new social attitudes and modernization has contributed to the easing of such taboos. However, the role of the church to defend minorities has led to serious conflicts between the gay community and the churchs prohibition of homosexuality. Within the Christian churches, homosexually oriented people have been excluded, marginalized and persecuted in the great majority of cases. The relatively few exceptions, which are known, are seldom taken into account. John Boswell, from whom the most important studies in this area have come, has found examples of liturgical forms for the union of same-sex partners from the churches of Asia Minor. Nevertheless, it must be said in general that in societies, which have morally proscribed homosexual relations, treated them as taboo or legally forbidden them, the sexual ethic upheld by the churches has not represented a divergent position. (Bauserman, R. ) New reflection by the churches in this area began only under the influence of a shift in social attitudes towards sexuality. The processes of modernization and secularization were accompanied by a removal of sexuality from the realm of taboo and a new respect for the private sphere. Furthermore, since the end of the 19th century modern sexual research has brought new insights into how the sexual identity of persons is formed. In addition, constitutional provisions guaranteeing the rule of law have made it possible for the first time for homosexual people to organize and struggle publicly for the abolition of discriminatory laws and regulations. For the most part the churches have supported the decriminalization of homosexuality only hesitantly. Nor was this new orientation primarily the consequence of new biblical insights or spiritual experiences; rather, the reconsideration was touched off by other factors. In the first place, personal encounter with gay or lesbian people, once they no longer had to conceal themselves but could begin to speak for themselves, was certainly important. As a rule, living alongside homosexual persons on the job, in the neighborhood, within the circle of friends or relatives leads to a reconsideration of traditional social or individual prejudices. A second factor was the exposure of individuals or groups in a good number of churches and congregations to the investigations and findings of modern empirical research on sexuality. However, this research is academically institutionalized (usually in connection with faculties of medicine) in only a few countries; and church declarations on sexual ethics draw explicitly on scientific sexological research only rarely and usually in passing. Finally, it should be noted that quite a few churches have accepted the decriminalization of homosexuality and the principle of non-discrimination against people because of sexual orientation through decisions by their competent governing bodies without however immediately reconsidering their own moral convictions and reservations on the issue. Churches time and again have a great deal of freedom for autonomous structuring of their ordinances and especially their offices. They should work at abolishing any remaining discrimination because of individual sexual orientation in the right to hold office and accept homosexual persons as office-bearers of course, as in the case of all office-bearers, according to the measure of their suitability for the growth of the community. (Boswell, J)

The significance of management information systems

The significance of management information systems Introduction: It is said that Modern economy is economy of knowledge the one who are advance in specific information and communication technology continue to transform the competitive goals into reality. Information technology has completely changed the position of business now the ways are completely changed from traditional to internet based information systems. It included the information required during communications, transactions, production of goods, provision of services and operational management. Organizations resources must be quite efficient and effective to meet the needs for competition. All the management of organizational and business processes, required level of knowledge about customers needs, and it should be capable to put that information to right department with organization on time that can produce quick response to changes in business environment. It is issue that the manager should have deep understanding of how to use information and technology to support and then to mana ge the organizational and business processes accordingly to meet get the competitive advantages. This assignment makes discussion over the role of information technology in supporting organization strategy, application of information systems, use of this information system to support business processes. It also discuses role of information system in the process of operations, manufacturing, cost management, quality. It will also cover the activities to build effective information system. In this assignment we will also examine the alternative information system; we will look into current technologies and their use in marketing. At and before making conclusion we will make a analysis about the use of data base for marketing by e-marketing and e-Commerce. Later we will make a link between the use of all new modern information systems and marketing techniques to the planning of business especially the developing business. Because it is all about adopting a solid practical approach while adopting new information systems so that business could grow and it can bring profits to the investors. 1: Significance of Traditional and internet based information system. Information system can be defined as information system,  an integrated set of components for collecting, storing, processing, and communicating information. (Encyclopedia Britannica, 2010) It further says that Business firms, other organizations, and individuals in contemporary society rely on information systems to manage their operations, compete in the marketplace, supply services, and augment personal lives. For instance, modern corporations rely on computerized information systems to process financial accounts and manage human resources; municipal governments rely on information systems to provide basic services to its citizens; and individuals use information systems to study, shop, bank, and invest. (Encyclopedia Britannica, 2010) It is very clear that all kind of human activities these days rely on information and it is perfectly said as age of information. The existing information system can be easily divided into two main groups one is traditional way of information and other is internet based information system. We can put following ways of information into traditional information system: Direct Books Letters Newspapers Gazettes Journals Reports While the internet based information includes Websites Blogs E-newspapers and journals Emails Both the traditional and internet based systems have different and unique importance in business. Both have advantages and disadvantages over each other. They can not be put into same level of importance while we see into their different use according to needs of the business. They both can be placed on equal importance level that varies from one situation to other. There are situations where one can be preferred over the other easily. Traditional system is effective where in-formations are required for all time anywhere in all circumstances without facing the problem of electricity cuts and internet availability. While internet based system is effective where the issue of time is important factor and there is requirement of fastest delivery of information. 2: Use of Information system in operations, manufacturing, cost management, quality. Now a days information system is more important and integral part of business. Information system is a greatest tool for acquiring competitive advantage over the market competitors. If it is use effectively during all the business process from planning to quality assessment it can bring amazing fruits to the organizations. A successful organization requires understanding of organization behavior, leadership and management, societal, ethical and legal issues, relationship management, and strategic management. Operations management focuses on managing the processes of production and distribution of products and services. Major, overall activities often include product creation, development, production and distribution. Related activities include managing purchases, inventory control, quality control, storage, logistics and evaluations. An effective information flow on time is a key in all the operation process if one thing is delayed all can go into waste or delays in production which can bring cost to the organization. A great deal of focus is on efficiency and effectiveness of processes. Therefore, operations management often includes substantial measurement and analysis of internal processes. Information system always plays key role in all operations and without continuous flow of right information at right time one can not complete operation effectively. There should be always a focus on flow of information through effective information system or systems while conducting operations for successful businesses. Manufacturing is another important issue in a business the perfect information systems brings quality and accuracy in manufacturing its noticed that all business organization always take great care during manufacturing because when dealing products its the product at end which bring profits to the investors. What are the details of product being manufactured and what processes will be followed play important role the information system of the organizations decide the right move at right time and try to win the advantages. Quality is always the advantage that can be crucial in markets. The issue of quality also depends on the flow of right information at right time for an organization. If there is problem with right information or its delivery to related people on right time it can bring problems for organization. Overall what the process is being implemented the role of information and its right time delivery play vital role in business success and should be taken seriously whether its the process of operations, manufacturing or its about the quality concern. 3: Information System Role in competitive advantage and management. Information system is deciding factor in the business success for any company or organization. Whether it is providing product or it is giving services. If an organization has effective flow or right information with in organization that is right at right time and managers are abele to control it properly that brings the advantage to that business in the competition with other competitors. But if that system of information fails at any stage it brings decline in profits and earnings. Similarly a good management is always equipped with quality of information and it knows how to in place that information while doing their job from planning phase to making overview at end of year about the business performance. 4: Activities to build information system. The activities include in a building of an effective information system are inputting data, processing of that data into information, storage of data and information, then the production of outputs such as management reports. This needs a proper system which consists of following systems Decision Support System, implementation system and monitoring system. A manager should keep closer monitoring and liaison with his colleagues during all the process and activities so that he could control the flow of information according to needs. These activates can be arranged as following:- Problem recognition and specification Information gathering Requirements specification for the new system System design System construction System implementation Review and maintenance 5: Alternative systems of information. Alternative system for information are all those new and innovative fast systems of information delivery and safety which are replacing the traditional systems of information like direct information, newspapers, books documents etc. In modern world these alternative systems include systems which are based on new technologies like internet, phones, computing gadgets (i-phone, i-pad, multi media and data books). These systems can be categories according to their effectiveness and advancement. 6: Current technology and their use in marketing and data mining. Due to the explosion of information systems, businesses progressively have the ability to attract higher numbers of customer data in large databases. However, much of the useful marketing insights into customer characteristics and their purchase patterns are largely hidden and untapped. Current emphasis on customer relationship management makes the marketing function an ideal application area to greatly benefit from the use of data mining tools for decision support. A systematic methodology with use of new technologies can be used to manage the marketing and data mining. This methodology can be the basis for enhancing customer relationship management. This technology includes internet, telecommunication, and computing. In modern time there is growing and expanded use of these three tools in marketing and data mining. As we can found many ways of advertising and marketing as websites, advertisement on different websites, similarly there are is different software for data mining which making things more easy. 7: Use of data base for marketing by e-marketing and eCommerce. Internet marketing is Achieving marketing objectives through applying digital technologies. These digital technologies include Internet media such as web sites and e-mail as well as other digital media such as wireless or mobile and media for delivering digital Television like cable and satellite. E-Marketing is gaining more influence on consumers buying decisions and televisions influence on awareness is decreasing. E-Marketing gets you closer to customers by creating a dialogue, asking questions and learning about customers preferences. E-Marketing is about people and making sure that the process, like all marketing, is people orientated far too many times it is producer or technology orientated and businesses wonder why it doesnt work. Before the internet, consumer purchases were restricted by time, geography, location, and physical store space. In the digital economy, buying is unlimited by these constrictions. But internet brought the revolution and it brought market in the rooms. On other hand Electronic commerce or E-Commerce is buying and selling products or services over the Internet. The meaning of electronic commerce has changed over the last three decades. Originally, electronic commerce meant technology such as Electronic Data Interchange and Electronic Funds Transfer. E-Commerce has lowered barriers to entry in the selling of many types of goods and services as it allows small and medium sized businesses to compete the web is not the high street. Data is central thing in both the e-marketing and e-commerce because it is the tool that connects buyer and sellers. Data base is the availability of specific data which required operating the process of e-marketing and e-commerce. There is a systematic way to organize that data on networking and internet. This required latest computer technology which could fast and effectively handle all the data flow and processing so that all marketing, buying selling could be made profitable. Conclusion: During the past two decades, business managers and scholastic researchers have shown significant curiosity in understanding how information technologies can help to create competitive advantage for a business. Recently idea of competitive differentiation through IT has become a challenge. Specifically, it is argued that by demarcating specific types of capabilities, we can put in to better understanding of the sources of IT-based competitive advantage. Theoretically, we distinguish here between value, competitive, and dynamic capabilities as three distinct types of capabilities. The study tells that information system play vital role in the process of management and planning and developing business can grow only bye the adaptation of effective use of these modern technologies which shape these systems. Whether its about the business or marketing of that business planning is key factor that makes a business success or failure. So it is very important for firms to adopt such policy whi le planning the business that they could effectively benefit from these modern technologies and methods of information systems. At the end its all about the good planning through effective and suitable information system that bring a business into success or failure.

Nazi Labour Camps and Capitalism Essay -- Comparative, Borowski

Throughout the communist era in Central and Eastern Europe, but especially in the first half of that era, capitalism was seen as immoral and inhumane. Capitalism, as discussed by Karl Marx in The Communist Manifesto, was the cause of many social ills in society and needed to be overthrown (Marx 221-222). In â€Å"This Way for the Gas, Ladies and Gentlemen,† Tadeusz Borowski uses imagery and characters to compare and contrast the Nazi labor camp to capitalism. Although the ideology of capitalism is not as cruel as the Nazi labor camps, when put in practice it does have some similarities to these camps. Of course, Borowski wrote this story while he was a member of the communist party, which suggests that his opinion of capitalism may be skewed. Nevertheless, in the discussion that follows, I will argue that Borowski’s use of imagery in â€Å"This Way for the Gas, Ladies and Gentlemen† was intended to portray the structure, motivations, and social interactions within the camp as similar to those of capitalist society. In order to compare the Nazi labor camps to capitalism, Borowski begins to discuss the structure of the camp. Borowski stresses that the Nazi’s have the camp well organized and designed for efficiency. â€Å"The crews are being divided into those who will open and unload†¦and those who will be posted by the wooden steps. They receive instructions on how to proceed most efficiently† (Borowski 15). However, not only are the camp laborers divided into different positions among themselves, but the type of jobs performed by the Schutzstaffel (S.S. officers) and camp laborers are different. This is a portrayal of capitalist society because it was Henry Ford who developed the assembly line in 1913, which began the practice of the ... ...after the war. This is mainly because he was pro-communist when he wrote this story. Due to this fact, it is unlikely that Borowski would compare communism to the labor camp, but highly likely that he would believe that capitalism and the labor camps are similar. However, Borowski portrays the similarities between the labor camps and capitalist society in a negative light, which is most likely done because he may have wanted to promote communist ideas. Borowski compares capitalist society to labor camps through the interactions and imagery presented in the story. Much of the interactions that take place and the imagery described relates to the way society is organized, which is one of the main complaints in The Communist Manifesto. Although there is no proof that Borowski read The Communist Manifesto, much of the story is relatable to what is presented in it. Nazi Labour Camps and Capitalism Essay -- Comparative, Borowski Throughout the communist era in Central and Eastern Europe, but especially in the first half of that era, capitalism was seen as immoral and inhumane. Capitalism, as discussed by Karl Marx in The Communist Manifesto, was the cause of many social ills in society and needed to be overthrown (Marx 221-222). In â€Å"This Way for the Gas, Ladies and Gentlemen,† Tadeusz Borowski uses imagery and characters to compare and contrast the Nazi labor camp to capitalism. Although the ideology of capitalism is not as cruel as the Nazi labor camps, when put in practice it does have some similarities to these camps. Of course, Borowski wrote this story while he was a member of the communist party, which suggests that his opinion of capitalism may be skewed. Nevertheless, in the discussion that follows, I will argue that Borowski’s use of imagery in â€Å"This Way for the Gas, Ladies and Gentlemen† was intended to portray the structure, motivations, and social interactions within the camp as similar to those of capitalist society. In order to compare the Nazi labor camps to capitalism, Borowski begins to discuss the structure of the camp. Borowski stresses that the Nazi’s have the camp well organized and designed for efficiency. â€Å"The crews are being divided into those who will open and unload†¦and those who will be posted by the wooden steps. They receive instructions on how to proceed most efficiently† (Borowski 15). However, not only are the camp laborers divided into different positions among themselves, but the type of jobs performed by the Schutzstaffel (S.S. officers) and camp laborers are different. This is a portrayal of capitalist society because it was Henry Ford who developed the assembly line in 1913, which began the practice of the ... ...after the war. This is mainly because he was pro-communist when he wrote this story. Due to this fact, it is unlikely that Borowski would compare communism to the labor camp, but highly likely that he would believe that capitalism and the labor camps are similar. However, Borowski portrays the similarities between the labor camps and capitalist society in a negative light, which is most likely done because he may have wanted to promote communist ideas. Borowski compares capitalist society to labor camps through the interactions and imagery presented in the story. Much of the interactions that take place and the imagery described relates to the way society is organized, which is one of the main complaints in The Communist Manifesto. Although there is no proof that Borowski read The Communist Manifesto, much of the story is relatable to what is presented in it.

Essay --

â€Å"The only thing we have to fear is fear itself†(Franklin D. Roosevelt). On October 29, 1929 The United States stock market crashed. Not long after, everything took a turn for the worse. Three point two million people lost their jobs and had no money to spare. Shock soon effected everyone and people rushed to put their money in the banks ("Stock Market Crash of 1929"). Many did what they felt they should do and they turned to their president, Herbert Hoover and asked for some guidance during this terrible event. So Herbert ordered the banks to close down, so the money that was in the banks was not returned. That turned everyone against him and they saw him as the creator of the Great Depression. The great depression had adverse effects on education and healthcare but it created a favorable government leader. During the great depression education was at a minimum, children hardly ever attended school. Many parents would homeschool their children due to the lack of teachers and school buildings. Unlike the ones who choose to educate their children many chose to not worry about educating their children and allowed them to stay at home and help with the chores and family. Unlike today children enjoyed going to school to get a little time having a normal life again Many people wonder what started the great depression. On October 29, 1929 the US stock market crashed. The stock market crashed because during the 1900s many things were being invented. Many people invested in these products but some chose to invest in the stock market. When people would invest in the stock market the prices went up. Investing in the stockmarket soon became very popular and everyone soon began to do it. The only thing bad about investing into the stock market... ... only has to stand for a couple minutes. This usually did not end very well , many people got in fights and the police always had to break it up. If you would cut you would either be kicked from the line or you would have to go to the back. Policemen usually where in the higher class at the time and had little to no trouble when it came to money so all they had to worry about was making sure everyone followed the rules. In 1933 President Franklin D. Roosevelt was elected. He was the sign that the great depression was coming to the end according to the people who believed that Hoover was the cause of the great Depression. The first thing President Franklin did was reopen the bank and allow people to withdraw money. For many that was the first thing they did. Soon everything started to get back on track. â€Å" The only thing to fear is fear itself† was no longer needed.

Essay on Abuse of Power in Catch-22 -- Catch-22

The Abuse of Power Exposed in Catch-22    In 1955, Joseph Heller wrote Catch-22. The story takes place on a small island in the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Italy. As the story progresses, it follows the actions of a man named Yosarrian and his companions in his squadron. Many of the men begin with high rank and others are promoted throughout the novel. As these men come into power, one of Heller's themes is explicitly shown; as men achieve power, they become compelled to abuse it.    The story begins with Yosarrian in a hospital. He is there "with a pain in his liver that fell just short of being jaundice. The doctors were puzzled by the fact that it wasn't quite jaundice. If it became jaundice they could treat it. If it didn't become jaundice and went away they could discharge him. But this just short of being jaundice all the time confused them" (7). Yosarrian is clever about how he fakes his condition and is able to stay in the hospital for as long as he wishes. The doctors in the hospital are blind to the deception and allow Yosarrian to stay. After Yosarrian realizes that he can deceive the doctors, he returns whenever he wishes to relax and escape from the war. He even kicks other patients with real conditions out of their beds. "The startled patient jumped down to the floor at Yosarrian's command and ran away. Yosarrian climbed up into his bed and became Warrant Officer Homer Lumley, who felt like vomiting and was covered suddenly with clammy sweat" (286). Yosarrian likes the way it feels to move into someone else's bed and continues to do abuse this power when at the hospital.    Another hospital episode is rather frightening. Yosarrian has been wounded and is semi-conscious as he listens to two ... ...operating, so he allows Milo to take credit for the flights of others. Milo is an example of the worst of the human spirit. His desire to make a quick buck makes him one to easily abuse his power for his own gain.    To a certain extent, all men desire power. Yet how much power any man craves depends on his surroundings. In World War II, men were put into a survival of the fittest environment. For many, survival meant obtaining power in order to control their destiny. In Catch-22, Joseph Heller captured that feeling in his characters. From the absurdity of Lieutenant Scheisskopf to Milo's syndicate, Heller shows how easily men are able to abuse their power. To this day that feeling lurks somewhere inside of all of us. It is just a matter of what it takes for that need to emerge. Works Cited   Heller, Joseph. Catch-22, Simon and Schuster, 1955

Axis Bank

Due to the radical changes brought up in the new era of Banking, General Public is becoming more and more conscious of the services and facilities the different banks are providing. Banks have also started tieing up with insurance companies and other allied services companies to fulfil the needs of their customers. The delivery channels have also been shifted from branches to net banking etc. Sales promotion have also been used to position the product correctly in the eyes of the customers and for product awareness to the customers.Several tools are being used like day-to-day promotional activities like discounts, offers, loans, trade promotion, other promotional activities and so on. The project in so designed as to find out the potential customers and also bring to the knowledge about the various products and services provided by the bank. In the successive chapters we will be talking about organization. . We will also be discussing about the various products and services providedS ection 7 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949 makes it essential for every company carrying on the business of banking in India to use as part of its name at least one of the word- bank, banker, banking or banking company. Ancient Hindu scriptures provide enough evidence of the existence of money lending business in India. Mahajans, Shroff, Sahukars, etc. were enjoyed in banking business. In the beginning of the 18th century, the East India Company set up a few commercial banks on moderns lines. In 1770, first Indian bank known as the Bank of Hindustan was started and was closed down twenty years later.Later, the East India Company started three Presidency banks with Government participation. These were: the Bank of Calcutta (1806), the Bank of Bombay (1840) and the Bank of Madras (1843). These banks had the financial participation by the Government also. During the 18th century, some other banks were also opened by Agency Houses in Madras and Calcutta. All these banks failed. Since all the banks emerged due to Agency Houses failed, the need of banking regulation in India was seriously felt. As a result, Companies Act, 1833 was brought into force.The impact of the Agency Houses got slowly reduced. Allahabad Bank came into existence in 1865 and Alliance Bank of Simla in 1875. The first purely Indian joint stock bank known as the Oudh Commercial Bank was set up in 1880 and the Punjab National Bank was launched in 1894. The Swadeshi movement in the country in 1906 encouraged the Indian entrepreneurs to start many new banks. There were as many as 648 commercial banks in India by the end of 1947. As many as 161 banks failed in quick succession during 1913-1914 and the people’s faith in the baking system was shaken.

Assess the view that ethnic differences Essay

?An Ethnic minority background increases your chances of arrest and conviction, some people argue that police racism in itself results in higher suspicion against black people in general. According to official statistics there are significant ethnic differences in the likelihood of being involved in the criminal justice system. Black and Asians are overrepresented in the system. For example black people make up 2. 8% of the population, but 11% of the prison population. Contrastingly whites are underrepresented. However such statistics do not tell us whether members of one ethnic group are more likely than members of another ethnic group to commit an offence in the first place; they just tell us about involvement in the criminal justice system. For example differences in stop and search or arrest rates may be due to police racism, while differences in rates of imprisonment may be the result of courts handing down harsher sentences on minorities. There are other sources of statistics to reveal link of ethnicity and offending. Victim surveys ask individuals to say what crimes they have been victims of. We can get information on ethnicity and offending from surveys when we ask what ethnicity of the person who committed the crime against them. For example in the case of mugging blacks are overly represented among those indentified by victims as offenders. Victim surveys show much crime is intra-ethnic; it takes place within rather than between ethnic groups. For example the British crime survey (2007) found 90% of where the victim was white; at least one of the offenders was also white. However while victim surveys are useful in identifying ethnic patterns of offending, they have several limitations. They rely on a victim’s memory of events. Ben Bowling and Coretta Phillips (2002) found whites may over identify blacks, saying the offender was black even when not sure. They only cover personal crimes, which make up 20% of all crimes. They exclude under 16s; minority ethnic groups contain a higher proportion of young people. They exclude crimes by big business; thus tell us nothing of ethnicity of white collar criminals. Thus victim surveys only tell us about the ethnicity of a small proportion of offenders, which may not be representative of offenders in general. Self report studies ask individuals to disclose their own dishonest and violent behaviour. Graham and Bowling (1995) found that blacks and whites had similar rates of offending, while Indians, Pakistanis and Bangladeshis had lower rates. Similarly Sharp and Budd (2005) note that the 2003 offending, crime and justice survey of 12,000 people found whites and mixed ethnic origin groups were more likely than blacks and Asians to say they had committed offences. The Home Office have conducted nine self report studies on drugs since the early 1990s, all with similar findings. Sharp and Budd (2005) found 27% of mixed ethnicity individuals said they had used drugs in the last year, compared to 16% of blacks and whites, and 5% of Asians. Use of class a drugs, such as heroin or cocaine was 3 times higher among whites than blacks and Asians. The findings of self report studies challenge stereotypes of blacks more likely than whites to offend, though they support the widely held view Asians are less likely to offend, however self report studies have their limitations in relation to ethnicity and offending. Overall the evidence of ethnicity and offending is inconsistent. For example while official statistics and victim surveys point to the likelihood of higher rates of offending by blacks; this is generally not the results of self report studies. There are ethnic differences at each stage of the criminal justice process. To explain them we need to look at main stages of the process that an individual may go through, possibly culminating in a custodial sentence. Phillips and Bowling (2007) argue since the 70s there have been many allegations of oppressive policing of minorities, including stop and search, deaths in custody, police violence and failure to respond effectively to racist violence. Minorities are more likely to be stopped and searched by police. Statistics show Asians were three times more likely to be searched under this act. Its thus unsurprising minorities are less likely to think police acted politely when stopped, or think they were stopped fairly. Phillips and Bowling (2007) argue these communities feel over policed and over protected and have limited faith in the police. There are three possible reasons for the disproportionate use of stop and search against minorities. Police racism; the Macpherson Report (1999) on the police investigation of the racist murder of black teenager Stephen Lawrence concluded there was institutional racism in the Metropolitan police. Other have found deeply ingrained racist attitudes among individual officers. For example Phillips and Bowling point out that many officers hold negative stereotypes about ethnic minorities as criminals, leading to deliberate targeting for stop and search. Such stereotypes are endorsed and upheld by the canteen culture of rank and file officers. Ethnic differences in offending; an alternative explanation is that the disproportionality in stop and searches simply reflects ethnic differences in levels of offending. However it’s useful to distinguish between low discretion and high discretion stops. In low discretion stops police act on relevant information about a specific offence, for example a victim’s description of the offender. In high discretion stops police act without specific intelligence. It is in these stops police can use stereotypes that disproportionality and discrimination are more likely. Demographic factors; ethnic minorities are over represented in the population groups who are most likely to be stopped such as the young, the unemployed, manual workers and urban dwellers. These groups are all more likely to be stopped, regardless of their ethnicity, but they are also groups who have a higher proportion of ethnic minorities in them, so minorities get stopped more. Figures in England and Wales show that in 2006/07, the arrest rates for blacks was 3. 6 times higher than for whites. Contrastingly once arrested blacks and Asians were less likely to receive a police caution. One reason for this may be more likely to deny the offence and likely to exercise their right to legal advice. However not admitting the offence means they cannot be let off with a caution and are more likely to be charged instead. The crown prosecution service is the body responsible for deciding whether a case brought by the police should be prosecuted in court. In doing so CPS must decide whether there is a realistic prospect of conviction and whether the prosecution is in the public’s interest. Studies suggest the CPS is more likely to drop cases against minorities. Bowling and Phillips (2002) argue this may be because the evidence presented to the CPS by the police is often weaker and based on stereotyping of ethnic minorities as criminals. When cases do go ahead minorities are more likely to elect trial before a jury in the Crown Court rather than the magistrates court, perhaps due to mistrust of magistrates impartiality. However crown courts can impose more severe sentences if convicted. Thus is interesting to note minorities are less likely to be found guilty. This suggests discrimination, in that the police and CPS may be bringing weaker or less serious cases against ethnic minorities that are thrown out by the courts. In 2006/7 custodial sentences were given to a greater proportion of black offenders (68%) than white (55%) or Asian offenders (59%), whereas whites and Asians were more likely than blacks to receive community sentences. This may be due to differences in seriousness of the offences or defendants previous convictions. However a study of 5 crown courts by roger Hood (1992) found even when such factors were taken into account, black men were 5% more likely to receive a custodial sentence, and were given sentences of an average of 3 months longer than whites. Another reason for harsher sentences id pre sentence reports (PRs) written by probation officers. A PRs is intended as a risk assessment to assist magistrates in deciding on the appropriate sentence for a given offender. However Hudson and Bramhall (2005) argue that PRs allow for unwitting discrimination. They found reports on Asian offenders were less comprehensive and suggested that they were less remorseful than white offenders. They place this bias in the context of demonising Muslims in the wake of 9/11 attacks. In 2007, one quarter of the male prison population was minorities. Blacks were five times more likely to be in prison than whites. Black and Asians were more likely to be serving longer sentences. Within the total prison population all minorities had a higher than average proportion of prisoners on remand. This is because minorities are less likely to be granted bail whilst awaiting trial. There are similar patterns in other countries, for example in USA two fifths of prison population is black. There was large scale migration from the Caribbean and Indian subcontinent in the 50s, at this time it was agreed minorities had lower crime rates. However by the 70s there was conflict between blacks and the police meaning â€Å"black criminality† became more of a problem. Contrastingly by the 90s Asian crime also became viewed as a problem. Events e. g. 9/11 cemented the idea that Asians were a threat to public order. There are two main explanations for ethnic differences in crime; left realism and neo-Marxism. Left realists Lea and Young (1993) argue ethnic differences in statistics reflect real differences in the levels of offending by different ethnic groups. Left realists see crime the product of relative deprivation, subculture and marginalisation. They argue racism had led to economic exclusion of ethnic minorities who face higher unemployment, poverty and poor housing. At the same time the Medias emphasis on consumerism promotes a sense of relative deprivation by setting materialistic goals that many minorities are unable to reach by legitimate means. One response is formation of delinquent subcultures, especially by young unemployed blacks. It produces higher utilitarian crime to cope with relative deprivation. Furthermore as these groups are marginalised and have no groups to represent their interests their frustration is liable to produce non utilitarian crime such as rioting. Lea and Young acknowledge police often act in racist ways and results in unjustified criminalisation of some members of minorities. However they don’t believe discriminatory policing fully explains the statistics. For example over 90% of crimes known to the police are reported by the public rather than discovered themselves. Under these circumstances even if police act discriminatory it’s unlikely it can account for ethnic differences in statistics. Similarly Lea and Young argue we cannot explain differences in minorities in terms of police racism. For example blacks are more criminalised than Asians. The police would have to be selective in their racism for racism to cause these differences. Lea and Young thus conclude that the statistics represent real differences in levels of offending between ethnic groups and these are caused by real differences in levels of relative deprivation and marginalisation. However Lea and Young can be criticised for their views on the role of police racism. For example arrest rates may be lower for Asians because police stereotype them differently. Stereotypes may have changed since 9/11, explaining rising criminalisation of this group. While left realists see official statistics reflecting real differences in offending between ethnic groups, other sociologists have argued differences in statistics do not reflect reality. These differences are the outcome of a process of social construction that stereotypes ethnic minorities as inherently more criminal than the majority of the population. The work of neo Marxists Paul Gilroy (1982) and Stuart Hall (1979) illustrates this view. Gilroy argues the idea of black criminality is a myth created by racist stereotypes of African Caribbean’s and Asians. In reality these groups are no more criminal than any other. However as a result of the police and criminal justice system acting on these racist stereotypes, ethnic minorities came to be criminalised and thus to appear in greater numbers in official statistics. Gilroy argues ethnic minority crime can be seen as a form of political resistance against a racist society, and this struggle has roots in earlier struggle against British imperialism. Gilroy holds a similar view to that of critical criminology which argues working class crime is a political act against capitalism. Most blacks and Asians in the UK originated from former colonies where their anti imperialist struggles taught them how to resist oppression, for example through riots and demonstrations. When they found themselves facing racism in Britain they adopted the same form of struggles to defend themselves, but their political struggle was criminalised by the British state. However Lea, Young and Gilroy are criticised on several grounds. First generation immigrants were very law abiding, so it’s unlikely they passed their anti colonialist struggle onto their children. Most crime is interethnic, criminals and victims usually have similar ethnic backgrounds, so it can’t be seen as anti colonial struggle against racism. Lea and Young argue Gilroy romanticises street crime as revolutionary. Asian crime rates are similar to or lower than whites. If Gilroy were right then the police are only racist towards black and not Asians, which seems unlikely. Stuart Hall et al adopt a neo Marxist perspective. They argue the 70s saw a moral panic over black muggers that served the interests of capitalism. Hall et all argues the ruling class can normally rule the subordinate classes through consent. However in times of crisis this becomes more difficult. In the early 70s British capitalism faced a crisis. High inflation and rising unemployment provoked widespread industrial unrest and strikes. When opposition to capitalism was growing the ruling class may need to use force to keep control. However the use of force needs to be legitimated or provoke more resistance. The 70s also saw a media driven panic of the growth of mugging. In reality mugging was a new name for street robbery and Hall et al suggest there was no significant increase of this crime at the time. Mugging was soon to be associated by the media, police and politicians with black youth. Hall et al argues that the emergence of the moral panic about mugging as a specifically black crime at the same time as crisis of capitalism was no coincidence; the moral panic and crisis were linked. The myth of the black mugger served as a scapegoat to distract attention from the true cause of problems of unemployment, namely the crisis of capitalism. The black mugger symbolised disintegration of social order. By presenting black youth as a threat to the fabric of society the moral panic served to divide the working class on racial grounds and weaken opposition to capitalism as well as winning popular consent to authoritarian forms of rule to suppress opposition. However Hall et al do not argue that black crime was solely a product of media and police labelling. The crisis of capitalism was increasingly marginalising black youth through unemployment and drove them to a lifestyle of hustling and petty crime to survive. However Hall et al have been criticised on several grounds. Downes and Rock (2003) argue that Hall et al are inconsistent in claiming that black street crime was not rising, but also that it was rising because of unemployment. They do not show how a capitalist crisis led to a moral panic, nor do they provide evidence that the public were in fact panicking or blaming crime on blacks. Left realists argue inner city residents fears about mugging are not panicky but realistic. Until recently the focus of the ethnicity and crime debate was largely about the over representation of blacks in the criminal justice system. However recently sociologists have studied racist victimisation of ethnic minorities. Racist victimisation occurs when an individual is selected as a target because of their race, gender or religion. Racist victimisation is nothing new, but brought into public view with the racist murder of Stephen Lawrence in 1993 and the subsequent Macpherson inquiry into the police investigation. Information of victimisation comes from two main sources; the British crime survey and police recorded statistics. These generally cover racist incidents, any incident perceived to be racist by the victim or another person. They also cover racially or religiously aggravated offences where the offender is motivated by hostility towards members of a racial or religious group. The police recorded 60,000 racist incidents in England and Wales in 2006/7, mostly damage to property and verbal harassment. However most incidents go unreported; the British crime survey estimates there were 184,000 racially motivated incidents in 2006/7. The police recorded 42,600 racially or religiously aggravated offences on 06/7, mostly harassment. 10,600 people were prosecuted or cautioned for racially aggravated offences in 2006. The risk of being a victim of any sort of crime varies by ethnic group. The 2006/7 British crime survey shows people of mixed ethnic background had a higher risk of becoming a victim of crime than blacks, Asians or whites. The differences may be partly the result of factors other than ethnicity. For example for violent crime factors such as being young, male and unemployed are strongly linked to victimisation. Ethnic groups with a high proportion of young males are thus likely to have higher rates of victimisation. However some of these factors such as unemployment are themselves partly due to discrimination while the statistics record the instances of victimisation they don’t capture the victim’s experience of it. As Sampson and Phillips (1992) note racist victimisation tends to be over time with repeated minor instances of abuse with periodic physical violence. The resulting long term psychological impact needs to be added to the physical injury and damage to property caused by offenders. Members of minority ethnic communities have often been active in responding to victimisation. Responses range from situational crime prevention measures such as fireproof doors to organised self defence campaigns. Such responses need to be understood in the context of accusations of under protection by the police who often ignore the racist dimension in victimisation and fail to investigate incidents properly. For example the Macpherson enquiry (1999) concluded the police investigation into the death of black teenager Stephen Lawrence was marred by incompetence, institutional racism and failure of leadership by senior officers. Others have found deeply ingrained racist attitudes among individual officers.

Federal Government Essay

To what extent did the Federalist administrations of George Washington and John Adams promote national unity and advance the authority of the federal government? George Washington and John Adams were the first two presidents of the United States. As they had just fought a civil war against their oppressive mother country, it was only fitting that they were federalists. Federalists believed in national unity and a strong central government. They knew that in order for the country to succeed, a strong central government was needed. As a result, their administrations were built around promotion of national unity and advancements of the authority of the federal government. However, there was a limit to what extent they were successful. In my opinion, Washington was highly successful in promoting national unity. Starting from his first inaugural address into his second term, Washington set a tone and example in all his actions that advanced the authority of the federal government. In his first inaugural address, he said that the federal government would not be exceeding its limits and it will be respected by all others. This gives the rest of the country a feeling of unity and authority. Then, Washington’s secretary, Alexander Hamilton, goes against Thomas Jefferson to say and back up his view that the National Bank was constitutional. Washington, along with Adams, stood by this notion throughout their respective terms. This also increased the idea that the federal government had authority. Since Jefferson was preaching that the constitution should be interpreted strictly and therefore, the bank was not constitutional, and both Washington and Adams went against him openly on this idea, this showed the country that the federal government had power and it gave them more authority. In addition, The Sedition Act of July 1798 went ahead and increased the  authority of the government. It stopped anyone and everyone from talking, writing, and publishing anything false and malicious about the government. This way, the media could no longer talk bad about anyone associated with the federal government. This act did not unify the nation, but it advanced the authority of the federal government. As you can see, this is why I believe that George Washington and John Adams, and their administrations, promoted national unity and advanced the authority of the federal government. They were strict federalists, who believed in loose interpretation of the constitution and a strong federal government. Heeding well to their ideals, they built a strong federal government that possessed powerful authority. In addition, their administrations promoted nation unity and did in fact unify citizens all around the country, save a few radicals. In conclusion, I believe both Washington and Adams went to great extents to follow their federalists ideals and as a result, they were successful.

Succubus on Top CHAPTER 6

One thing about working in a bookstore is you have immediate access to print media: Nocturnal Admission is a treat for the senses, one of those rare jewels that emerges from the dark obscurity of small clubs and restaurants. Of course, after last night's performance at the Verona, it's unlikely they'll be playing shoddy venues again. Nocturnal Admission is well on its way to becoming a household name – not only at the local level, but the national one as well. The opening staff and I oohed and aahed over the concert review in the Seattle Times, all of us clustering around the information desk, rereading our favorite quotes over and over. The writer had even provided a few words of Doug's bio – after several other lines praising his voice and onstage persona – adding that he worked at a â€Å"local bookstore.† We loved that; the nondescript reference almost made us feel like celebrities too. I let them chat on a bit longer, reveling in my own pride and pleasure for Doug, before finally breaking things up. â€Å"All right, kids, I hate to crack the whip, but I see customers at the door. â€Å" They dispersed reluctantly, but I saw Andy smirking when he thought I didn't notice him whispering something to Casey. The only word I caught was â€Å"whip.† Charming. One would think having a dominatrix reputation would at least make me a more formidable authority figure, rather than a source of ridicule. And today, I was the only authority figure. Paige was out sick again, so I had to unofficially work both her job and my own. At least the staff was in good form despite the late night, which made things easier. Casey seemed unaffected by last night, which I found remarkable. Maybe it was the resilience of youth. After drinking and smoking that much, I doubted I'd have been in as good a shape as she was – and I had the advantage of supernatural healing and recovery. My misgivings about Alec must have been premature, I decided, considering what a good mood she appeared to be in. She smiled every time I saw her during the day and was always ready with a friendly comment to customers and coworkers alike. When I stopped by to take something from a neighboring register, I heard a customer ask her if she knew offhand whether his books would total under twenty-five dollars or not. She flipped through the stack expertly and had an answer within ten seconds. â€Å"With tax, $26.57. Put this one back, and you'll be at $22.88. Closest you can get without going over.† â€Å"Did you do that all in your head?† I asked her later. Dimples showed in her pretty cheeks. â€Å"I'm an accounting major.† â€Å"Yeah, but my accountant sure as hell doesn't do my taxes in his head.† â€Å"Of course not. But this stuff's easy.† Doug came in at noon, much to the delight of the others. Practically strutting, he couldn't stop crowing about the review and kept asking me if I'd read such-and-such in the article. I had to assure him repeatedly that I'd read it all. Like Casey, he too acted untouched by last night's partying. He worked and bounced around with what was becoming his trademark energy. Compared to the two of them, I felt downright curmudgeonly, not to mention inadequate. Sheesh. What were immortality and shape-shifting next to superhuman computations and dazzling stage performances? When I returned from my lunch break, he practically sprinted up to me. â€Å"Kincaid, Kincaid – you gotta help me out.† â€Å"What's wrong?† He inclined his head toward one of the registers. Alec stood leaning against it, flirting with Casey. She smiled and nodded enthusiastically at something he said. â€Å"Alec came by to tell me he got us a major audition over at the Blue Gallery. We have got to go practice. Stat.† â€Å"Good grief. Slow down on the italics.† â€Å"Kincaid, I mean it! You have to cover for me. No one,ll know I left. These guys don't care, and Paige and Warren won't be in.† â€Å"How long do you need?† â€Å"The rest of the day.† â€Å"The rest of the – that's going to be over twelve hours for me! Besides, I can't close. I'm going to a play downtown.† Seth had just secured us some last minute tickets. â€Å"Then†¦stay as late as you can. Janice,ll handle closing.† I hesitated. Warren preferred that the manager or one of the assistant managers close, but Doug was right. Janice could handle it. â€Å"Kin -caid,† he begged. â€Å"Please. I need this. You know I do.† Doug had always been charming and irresistible. Something about him today particularly appealed to me. A master working another master, apparently. When I gave in to his pleas, he picked me up and spun me around in a most undignified way. Two minutes later, he and Alec left, and I settled in for a long day. When it finally neared its end, I felt certain the store would burn to the ground in my absence. Dragging myself away at last, I drove downtown, found parking, and sprinted into the theatre just as the lights were going down. Breathless, I slid into a seat between Seth and his thirteen-year-old niece Brandy. On the other side of him, Seth's brother and sister-in-law waved to me. Brandy grinned. She'd been shy the first time we met but now seemed to regard me as the older sister she didn't have. I adored her too. If Seth and I ever split up, I wasn't sure I was going to be able to handle keeping away from his family. â€Å"I didn't think you'd make it,† she told me, her features faintly discernible in the dim lighting. In days long past, people would have said she and her mother had â€Å"flaxen† hair, but no one really used that term anymore. Still, I always thought it appropriate when I saw that pale shade of gold. â€Å"Just making a fashionably late entrance,† I whispered back. â€Å"Remember that when you're older. It keeps men guessing. Once they start presuming anything, there's no living with them.† Brandy giggled. Seth only smiled, but his eyes radiated approval, as he assessed me. I wore wine-colored silk and had my hair in a French twist. His eyes, I'd long since discovered, could be as eloquent and expressive as his pen. The messages they sent me now hardly seemed decent for a public setting. He moved his hand over to cover mine, so that both rested on my thigh, and as the night progressed, I found myself thinking more about that hand placement than the excellent play. Afterward, he and I stood with his family in the lobby for a while, catching up. Terry and Andrea Mortensen were great people who always treated me with genuine kindness. From what I'd learned of Seth's antisocial habits, I think they regarded me as some sort of last hope for him. Brandy affirmed as much when she and I dashed to the restroom together. â€Å"Dad told Uncle Seth not to screw things up,† she informed me as we washed our hands. â€Å"He said even if Uncle Seth is famous, him getting a woman like you defies belief.† I laughed and smoothed down the skirt of my dress. â€Å"I don't know about that. I don't think your dad gives your uncle enough credit. â€Å" Brandy gave me a sage look, worthy of someone much older. â€Å"Uncle Seth spent last Valentine's Day at a library.† We returned to the lobby and spoke a bit more before Terry declared they needed to rescue the babysitter who'd been left with their other four daughters. Andrea touched my arm as they prepared to leave. â€Å"You're coming to Seth's birthday party, aren't you?† I looked at all of them in surprise. â€Å"When is it?† â€Å"Thanksgiving. They fall on the same day every once in a while.† â€Å"It's a good ploy to get turkey and presents,† remarked Terry. He was shorter and more clean-shaven than Seth but otherwise bore a fair resemblance to his older brother. â€Å"I didn't even know it was coming up.† I shot Seth an accusing look. â€Å"I forgot.† For anyone else, that would probably have been a lie, but I believed him. â€Å"So you'll be there?† Andrea again gave me the impression they were desperate to foster Seth's love life. I could have probably negotiated a stipend for showing up. â€Å"With bells on.† Seth and I went back to his place this time. I shape-shifted into my favorite pajamas – flannel pants and a cami – and crawled into bed with him. His bed was bigger than mine and had a feather duvet, as well as a teddy bear named Damocles who wore a University of Chicago T-shirt. Still a little wound up, we talked in the dark about Emerald City for a while, then moved on to books in general. We had a vast array of familiar literature in our repertoire, and we jumped around authors and genres. We both admired Toni Morrison and Tennessee Williams. Neither of us could get through Anna Karenina. Seth hated Jane Austen, whom I adored. As we debated back and forth, I was relieved to be reminded we truly did have a lot in common. Sex was not the only thing between us, even if it was the only thing that stood between us. At some point in the literary discussion, I began to drift off. The long day had worn me out, and sleep felt luxurious. Seth seemed tired too. He and I drew close, lying on our sides, legs touching. Random thoughts whispered in my head as unconsciousness tugged at me. How Aubrey was doing. Whether Paige's baby would be a boy or a girl. If Bastien was any closer to bedding Dana. How in the world Doug's band had become so amazing so quickly. I opened my eyes a couple hours later, uncertain what had woken me. One of those weird, unseen things that suddenly break you out of sleep, I guessed. Quiet darkness still enveloped us with no sign of morning in sight. A little moonlight filtered inside, casting funny shadows around the desk and other bedroom furniture. Unlike my place in Queen Anne, car traffic here dropped off at night, so I heard only the sound of breathing and electrical humming. Then I noticed that Seth and I had moved our bodies even nearer than before. Our legs wrapped around each other pretzel-style, our arms kept us close together. His scent flooded my nose. As my eyes adjusted, I noticed his were open as well. Intense pools of darkness. He was watching me. Still a little sleepy, I moved my hand up to his neck, twining my fingers in his hair, drawing my face closer to his. His hand rested on the small of my back where the tank top rose away from my flannel pajama bottoms. He touched the skin there just as he had at the concert, his hand sliding toward my side, tracing the curve of my hip before running toward my thigh. The fingers that beat such a steady tattoo on computer keys were as delicate as feathers on me. My eyes never left his as we touched each other, and I swore I could hear my heart thundering in my ears. Then, despite some screaming voice in the back of my foggy brain, I pushed my mouth toward his and kissed him. Our lips were tentative at first, as though surprised they had gotten this far. We tasted each other, slowly and gently. His hand on the back of my thigh slid upward, and something about shy Seth Mortensen stroking my ass sent a thrill through me. A soft exhalation lodged in my throat, and as my tongue explored past his lips, seeking more, he suddenly pushed me onto my back with an urgency that I think astonished both of us. His other hand slid up under my shirt and cupped the bottom of a breast, and through his boxers, I could tell that more than just his hands and lips wanted this to progress. Then, ever so slightly, I felt something else. A slight tingling. Angel-fine tendrils of prickly bliss slowly snaking through me, wrapping around me. Exhilarating. Better than any intoxicant I'd ever experienced. Pure life, pure energy. It was delicious and tantalizing, another dimension of the physical pleasure we stood on the brink of. The fact that it was Seth's was even more alluring. It had his unique essence written all over it. I wanted to dive into it, close my eyes and forget all about being responsible while that sweetness filled me. But I couldn't. My resolve was weakening by the second, true, but I was still holding on. Barely. I broke the kiss reluctantly, trying to muster my strength and move away from him. At the first sign of my struggle, he immediately let me go. â€Å"I – I'm sorry,† I said, sitting up and putting my face in my hands. I rubbed my eyes as though waking from a dream, which in a manner of speaking, I was. â€Å"We can't. It†¦it started†¦Ã¢â‚¬  â€Å"Just from kissing.† It was a statement, his voice coming out husky with desire and sleepiness†¦and regret. He knew better than most how lethal a passionate kiss could be; I'd almost killed him the last time. Of course, that had been an exceptional situation, and my near-death state had sucked away much more than a deep kiss normally would. â€Å"Just from kissing,† I repeated bleakly. It didn't take intercourse for one person to give themselves up to another. There were no loopholes in this game. Tense silence crept in around us until Seth sat up as well and shifted his body away from mine. I could hear genuine pain and guilt when he spoke again. â€Å"I'm sorry about that. I don't know†¦meant to have better control. But I just sort of woke up†¦and I was half-asleep†¦and then†¦Ã¢â‚¬  â€Å"I know,† I whispered into the darkness. â€Å"I know. And I'm sorry too.† More silence. â€Å"I guess,† he finally said, â€Å"I should go sleep on the couch†¦Ã¢â‚¬  I closed my eyes, feeling terrible but knowing he was right. We'd been playing with fire by fooling around with this chaste-sleeping thing. It was a wonder something bad hadn't happened sooner. The more it sunk in, the more I realized how much damage I could have caused. Hell, how much damage had I caused already by taking those few drops of life from him? A week off his lifespan? A few days? Even one minute would have been too much. Bitterness – at the world, not him – dripped from my voice when I spoke. â€Å"No. I'll take the couch. We're at your place.† â€Å"Whatever. Leave me some remnant of chivalry.† I didn't say anything, and we sat once more in awkward silence. A hundred questions hung in the air between us, but neither of us could broach them. Both our faults. When an emotional situation turned uncomfortable, I had a tendency to run from it or pretend it wasn't happening. And while Seth wouldn't exactly run away, he wouldn't initiate the dialogue needed to explore something like this. So we continued sitting there. At last, he stood up. â€Å"I'm sorry. Sorry for what I did.† He blamed himself, which was typical of him but not fair, especially since I had technically touched him first. I should have said something then, told him it wasn't all his fault. But the words stuck on my tongue, held up by my own confused feelings. After a few more moments, he left for the living room. I lay back down, Damocles in my arms, but slept badly the rest of the night. When morning came, Seth and I ate breakfast in more tense silence – he'd finally made my pancakes – broken only occasionally by stiff small talk. We then went to the bookstore together, parting ways quickly. I hardly saw him the rest of the day. Bastien was in the city for some reason or another that night, so he picked me up later and drove me over to his place for the ridiculous heist at Dana's. When I saw the post-sex energy wreathing him, I knew what had brought him downtown. â€Å"Don't you get tired of getting laid every day?† I asked him, wishing I could have gotten laid last night. â€Å"I'm going to pretend you didn't actually just ask that, Fleur .†He then proceeded to ramble on about his various Dana sightings in the last few days, how chummy they were getting, how it could only be a matter of time before the inevitable. When I didn't really respond, he cut me a sidelong glance. â€Å"What's the matter with you? You look miserable.† I sighed. â€Å"I kissed Seth last night.† â€Å"And?† â€Å"And what?† â€Å"What else happened?† â€Å"Well†¦nothing. I mean, a little groping here and there, but that's it.† â€Å"So?† â€Å"So, I shouldn't have done it.† A dismissive look crossed his face. â€Å"A kiss is nothing. It's not like you gave him a blow job or anything.† â€Å"Good lord, you're crass.† â€Å"Don't act like I offended your delicate sensibilities. And you know what I'm talking about.† â€Å"Doesn't matter. I was weak. I got some of his energy from that.† † Fleur , I love you as much as I've ever managed to love anybody, but this whole thing is absurd. You're never going to be happy until you've fucked this guy, so just get it over with. It'll take away the whole forbidden attraction and allow both of you to get on with your lives. â€Å" â€Å"‘Get on with our lives?' What's that supposed to mean?† I asked sharply. â€Å"I mean half the reason you guys are so infatuated with each other is because you can't have each other. It's not love, but it is a normal human reaction, a catalyst for physical attraction.† He paused and considered. â€Å"Your maniacal obsession with his books might also be a factor.† â€Å"That's not true. None of that's true at all. Well, I mean, those books are good enough to be the basis of a religion, but that's not the same thing. That's not why I†¦Ã¢â‚¬  Love him? Hell. I still didn't know if I did or not. I wasn't even sure what love was after all this time. Bastien shook his head, not believing me but not wanting to argue either. â€Å"Fine. Keep going with this. I still think you should fuck him, though. Even if it doesn't make you both realize you're better off apart, it'll at least remove one source of tension between you and maybe let you attempt some sort of normal dysfunctional relationship.† I stared bleakly into space. â€Å"I can't. Not even one night. It'd take years off his life. I couldn't live with myself.† â€Å"Bah. Only a handful of years at most. What's that? Besides, men have done stupider things for sex – with women they don't even really like. If he really does love you, he might think it's a fair trade.† I shuddered. I didn't think it was fair at all, but he was right about the silly things men would do for sex. I'd seen and initiated plenty of them. We finally gave up both sides of the argument when we pulled into his driveway. The clock was ticking, and we had to start this operation. Bastien had watched Dana and Bill drive off earlier, and their teenage son had gone down the street to stay at a friend's house. Shifting to be invisible to mortal eyes, Bastien and I crept out the back of his house and scaled the fence into Dana's yard. It sort of made me feel like I was in a spy movie; I half wished we could crawl under some motion-detecting lasers. â€Å"They have a security system,† I whispered to Bastien as I watched him pick the back door's lock. More useful skills gleaned from long centuries. â€Å"Being invisible isn't going to deactivate it. â€Å" â€Å"No problem. I've done some invisible reconnaissance. I know the code.† Sure enough, he punched it into the console once we were in the house, and the readout's red light turned green. We started in the Dailey office, as that seemed like the most logical place to stash paperwork. Dana had a meticulous sense of organization that creeped me out, and we had to make sure we left everything the way we found it. Unfortunately, most of the stuff was completely useless. Memos. Efficient – and honest – budget reports. Invoices. Press releases. She had a lot of pictures too, which were at least more fun to look at than the papers. Most of them showed family or CPFV events. A number of the shots had Jody in them, which saddened me. I recalled the other woman's sly wit and passion for art. Why would someone with any sort of intelligence want to get involved in all this? â€Å"I didn't realize how active Jody was in this group,† I remarked to Bastien. â€Å"She wasn't so bad. Dana's corrupted her.† â€Å"Dana's a persuasive woman. Hey, did you know Jody's last name is Daniels? And her husband's name is Jack?† We giggled over that and continued searching a while longer before finally abandoning the office. We then ransacked – neatly, of course – any other cupboards or drawers we could find on the main floor. Nothing. â€Å"Maybe there are secret panels behind paintings,† suggested Bastien. â€Å"Or maybe the pool-boy thing was a fraud, Dana's honest with her business dealings, and there's really nothing else to get on her except that she's a prejudiced bitch.† He rolled his eyes. â€Å"One place left. The true sanctuary. The bedroom.† I grimaced. Going into someone's bedroom freaked me out. The ultimate violation of privacy. But Bastien charged on, still confident this wild goose chase would yield results. Fortunately, the bedroom had the neat, sterile look of a hotel, not the warm and sensual air of one's most intimate space. It made searching easier, like I was breaking into a vacant room. We sifted through drawers and closets, again finding little to go on. â€Å"Eek!† I suddenly cried, staring into an open drawer. Bastien flew to me. â€Å"What? What is it?† I held up what had to be the most wholesome pair of granny panties I'd ever seen. They were like great-granny panties. They were even white. You would have thought she could at least go out on a limb and get them in blue or green or something. Bastien elbowed me for my overreaction. â€Å"How can you even act surprised after hearing her rants about modest clothing?† â€Å"Modest is one thing, but Jesus†¦how high do these things go? Up to her neck?† â€Å"Put them back. We've got to – â€Å" Click. We'd both heard. I shot Bastien a panicked look and shoved the underwear back in the drawer. â€Å"I thought you said – † His tone was grim. â€Å"I know, I know.† Someone had just entered the house.