“Maid in Manhattan” Film Analysis Essay

Think its safe to say that everyone going to see J.Lo’s latest release, â€Å"Maid in Manhattan†, pretty much knows what to expect: Single, working-class mom from the Bronx gets mixed up in Cinderella circumstances with charming (even prince-like) politician. Dressed up in someone else’s wardrobe, at first he takes her for a princess, but loves her anyway when the time comes to rescue her from her drudgery. As fluffy and formulaic as it is, sometimes this is all we ladies want—a romantic little fairy-tale to share with our girlfriends or the husband who owes us for sitting through the latest Steven Segal debacle. Unfortunately, as much as I wanted to enjoy this movie under said criteria, the story line was just too 1950s for me to take seriously. Don’t get me wrong, I firmly believe that a good Cinderella story, ala â€Å"Working Girl† and â€Å"Pretty Woman† (both of which this film is being compared to), can always be updated for a n ew audience. But the operative word here is update, something screenwriter Kevin Wade doesn’t bother with at all. Jennifer Lopez plays Marisa Ventura, a maid in a ritzy New York hotel who dreams of management, but fears her ethnic background will keep her from ever realizing her ambitions. Ralph Fiennes is the Republican Senatorial candidate who must overcome the prejudices of his campaign manager (Stanley Tucci) to win his blue-collar dream girl. Honestly, this reliance on ethnicity as both a professional and personal obstacle for Marisa comes off not only as lazy, but also inappropriate for today’s political and romantic world. It seems to me that if a woman as smart as Marisa were passed over simply because of her race or housekeeping status, she would certainly know who to contact in the HR department to file a complaint. Similarly, if Fiennes’s campaign manager really can’t see what a political boon it would be for a Republican to fall for a struggling, single mom , then he needs to be fired and immediately sent back to whatever publicity playpen he toddled out of. Anyone with even the least bit of political savvy would surely know how to spin such a situation into a PR goldmine. These may not be issues that would trouble everyone, but for me, this silly, outdated plot translated to an hour and a half of almost straight boredom (pretty clothes and Harry Winston jewels not withstanding). Also, while both Lopez and Fiennes turn in adequate performances, very few sparks build between them,  so, of course, the obligatory sex scene is thrown in to convince us they really are falling in love. It goes without saying this is not the kind of lie our teenagers once again need reinforced to them. So moms, if you do take a Christmas shopping break with your daughters to see this one, I would make sure to point out how drastically this worldly version of love differs from our Christian one. For a far more entertaining afternoon out, you might consider â€Å"Sweet Home Alabama†. It too has some moral problems with its endorsement of homosexuality, but the main characters’ relationship relies on a much deeper foundation, and Reese Witherspoon experiences some growing pains that could provide good lessons for young women. Overall, â€Å"Maid in Manhattan† is simply your average, run of the mill romantic comedy, with very little to make it more than a renter on a slow Saturday night.

Festival and Events

Executive Summary The charity sector is large and growing, and has substantial assets at its disposal. Sport charities today form an increasingly important part for the local economy and also promoting healthy living at the same time (Fill, Groan and Fairly, 2012). Serve your racquets! A racquet sports charity event organized by Starry Family. It is a unique sport charity event as it only focuses on racquet based sports, organized to raise funds to help and support single parent's in the State of Victoria, Australia. Serve your racquets! S to be held at major sporting venues in and around the City of Melbourne on the last two weeks of November 2013 with local celebrities taking part in the games to promote the noble cause aimed at promoting family wellness and healthy living. While sport participation continues to represent a prominent aspect of leisure and recreation, there has also been a pronounced shift toward support of charitable causes for both individual consumers and corpora tions (King, 2001). Giving to charity is a complex decision driven by a variety of motives.Research has shown that reciprocity is an important motivating factor for charitable donations among young professionals today (Fill, Funk and O'brien, 2010). Reciprocity involves an individual giving to charity because he or she has benefited from, or anticipates benefiting from, the charity's central activities. Research has also suggested motives related to inherent needs of donors such as self-esteem and the need to help others (Ruthenium, 2000, as cited in Fill, Funk and O'brien, 2010). 1 . Serve your racquets!The idea/theme of this sports charity is that it only focuses on racquet sports such as tennis, badminton, squash and table tennis and etc to raise funds for single parent's facing difficulties in their everyday life. It is a unique charity event which is open to he public over a period of the last 2 weeks in the month of November 2013, allowing more participation from the public. W hat makes it exciting is that participants of the event is allowed to wear any costumes they like as long it is not revealing or indecent clothing. The principle of Serve your racquets!The aim of Serve your racquets! Is to educate the greater community in order to increase their awareness of everyday problems/challenges faced by single parent's. To do this, sports is involved as it is the most common activities in the world, with participation in very country and at all levels of society. Sports have a strong history all levels of society which in turn allows both the participants and the public at large to help those in need by meaner of education and awareness and living a healthy lifestyle at the same time (Fill, Groan and Fairly, 2012).Here is the general outline of the purpose of the sports charity event concept: The purpose of this concept is so that once completed, evaluations can be done to see if the event can be delivered successfully within the available timeshare and res ources. This process is known as the feasibility study (Allen, Harris and McDonnell, 2008). There are three steps in the feasibility study related to events. 1 . The marketing screen 2. The operations screen 3. The financial screen The marketing screen involves examining how the target audience of the event is likely to respond to the event concept (All et al. 008). This meaner that the event managers will need to pay a great deal of attention to media responses and the responses (feedbacks) of those who hear about the event concept. Event successfully, and whether the event managers have these skills and resources or have access to them (Allen et al. 2002). In this case any resources or skills required or the event are generously available, such as security, medical standby services and food stalls. This screen examines whether the event organization has the sufficient financial commitment, sponsorship and revenue to undertake the event (Allen et al. 008). Optimistically the event will have some form of sponsorship support as described in the stakeholder section, and if objectives are reached there will be a profit of over hundred thousand dollars. The key target of the event The goals of the Serve your racquets! Event is to: 1. To raise funds to help and support single parent's. 2. To attract at least ten thousand attendees during the 2 weakling events. 3. Raise over two hundred and fifty thousand dollars in participation fees alone. 4.To earn recognition from all stakeholders (including the public) during the event to formulate it into a major event. 2. The stakeholders of Serve your racquets! Event. L. The organizer Starry Family as the main organizer that will be running the event. II. Internal staff (or Volunteers) The event will require area managers who coordinate the activities in each area (in and around the City of Melbourne), guidance staff who inform and direct attendees and participants, medics for health and emergency services and security in ca se of any unwanted activities and disturbances.Ill. Event planner/manager Event planner and general manager who coordinates and provides logistics for the event. The people who signed up for the event or attending to watch the events. There will be those that come to the event for purely for entertainment reasons, and those who will get involved in buying and selling merchandise. V. Sponsors In the recent decades, sponsorship is no longer seen as a measure of goodwill, but a primary promotional tool in the market mix (Conway, 2004). Therefore it is very likely that this event will receive some benefits from sponsors.VI. Media The many forms of media that will be used to promote and advertise the event is through social media websites, radio along with newspaper advertisements with details such as date, venue, participant fees and other important event details that participants may be interested in. 3. Marketing/Promotion With technology growing at a fast pace, marketing/promoting th e â€Å"Serve your racquets! † event through certain media sources can result in positive revenue and create more attention to the not only fans of the sports but the broader audience.With the rapid growth in social media websites and the easy-to-access ideal through smart phone APS, this form of marketing can become very beneficial in the long run (Wolf, Here, and Walker, 2013). The most commonly used websites to promote a sport charity event through social media are Faceable and Twitter. Besides that, advertisement will be made on newspapers with announcements on the radio. Marketing this event through social media websites can be a very handy way to create awareness and recognition as Faceable has received more than 1. Billion visits a week and twitter receives more than 400 million visits a month (Sullivan, 012). A website linked by social media application will provide the event details such as date, venue, fees and other important event details that participants may be interested in. 4. Contested Meaning Other important decisions that need to be made whilst developing an event concept is the duration of the event and the season, days and times when the event will be held (Allen et al. 2002). The event will be held on the last two weeks of November.Reason being that though it is an outdoor and indoor event the good weather conditions are beneficial as more people would be willing to go out as often as possible. The two weakling events will start on Sunday the seventeenth of November and it will end on Saturday the thirtieth of November. The event times are: Weekdays, am – pm Weekend, loam – pm The weekdays are predicted to attract the seniors and non workers, while the weekend is predicted to attract families and young adults who work on weekdays.The event is expected to be held at the Rod Lever Arena and at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. The reason of the choice of venues is that both host venues has very good access to public transportation and both venues as ample of space to host various racquet games. 6. Community Benefit At least 40% of the collected fees will be used to cover necessary expenses incurred during the event. Meanwhile, the rest of the 60% of the collected fees along all personal and pledged donations will go 100% directly to Starry Family for the benefits of single parent's in the State of Victoria.This will help improve and provide a sustainable path for thousands of single parent's. Besides that, the local community has the opportunity to take part in the events to exercise further boosting the image 7. Estimated Economic Impact Starry Family as the organizer will have to rent booths, and tents on venues, generating income for the host of the respective sporting venues. Starry Family will also be setting up booths for sport retailers to sell their sport equipment and merchandise as well as souvenirs for the event.Attendees and/or participants will likely spend money both at the event and in the surrounding community (those traveling to the sporting venues). This will surely boost revenue for businesses located in and round the city as well as making full use of the public transport. 9. List of sponsors Request for sponsorship has been made to the Commonwealth Bank (Australia's largest bank), Rebel Sport (sporting and leisure equipment retailer), Mercer (global leader in HER and related financial advice), The City of Melbourne (as the venue partner) and Woolworth (Australia's largest food retailer). 0. Media and broadcast coverage There will be media coverage by Channel Ten, BBC local radio as well as the Herald Sun newspaper to report on the highlights and latest happenings during the event. 1 1 . Seeking Government funding Request has been made to the State Government of Victoria for funds to partially over the cost of organizing the event if 100% of all personal and pledged donations are to be made to Singleness (Australia's biggest charity for sing le parent's).The contribution of recreation and charity motives in the development of attachment demonstrates motives related to leisure including escape, social, competency, and intellectual. With motives related to charitable giving such as reciprocity, self-esteem, need to help others, and desire to improve the charity play a part in a sport event taking on enhanced importance and greater meaning for participants (Wolf, Here, and walker, 2013).

Competition in Health Care Essay

Competition in health care is becoming a major issue, because health care organizations are fighting for the best doctors, patients are fighting for the best treatments, and insurance companies are raising their premiums. Competition is a serious problem due to bad choices being made by hospitals, health plans, and businesses. This paper will explore in more detail the reason why there is so much competition in health care and why health care is steadily rising. Describe the different forms of competition that take place among various types of health care organizations. The different forms of competition for health care organizations would be price, quality, service and convenience. Doctors are willing to take on patients who can pay for their treatments instead of patients that have way of paying. â€Å"Physicians may compete for patients who are able to pay for services and do not health insurance, or for patients who have their expenditures paid for by third party insurers so phy sicians compete on a non-price basis, based on location, colleagues’ referrals, and reputation.† (Rivers & Glover, 2010). Hospitals compete for the best doctors offering better equipment or highly trained employees. Hospitals compete also for patients where they offer better services and cheaper prices. Insurance companies compete to have the best premiums, benefits and access to great health care insurance. There is a lot of competition in health care, but what this really boils down to is how well patients are being taken care of and if they are satisfied with their choices of doctors, hospitals and health insurance. Evaluate the benefits and pitfalls of competition in health care and suggest alternatives if competition was not the primary driver of operations in the U. S. health care system. Some of the benefits of competition would be Patient’s bill of rights, insurance companies taking pre-existing conditions, wealthier people paying taxes on health insurance, medical devices, and Medicare. Other  benefits would be for those individuals who cannot afford health insurance to not be penalize d for not having insurance, and children being able to stay on their parent’s health insurance until age 26. The pitfalls of competition would be hospitals will have to be punished if a patient is readmitted after being discharged from their facility within a certain number of days. Some physicians will have to sell their practices to hospitals because of overhead. The quality of health care has decreased while the cost has increased. Another pitfall would be employers cutting their employees hours from full-time to part-time so they do not have to pay for their employee’s health insurance. â€Å"Health care reform takes small steps toward addressing this problem but trends toward pay performance and bundled payment could worsen this mismatch if they fail to account for the needs of underserved patients and practices serving them.† (Fiscella, 2011). An alternative if competition was not the primary driver would be hospitals and doctors seeing patients free of charge. Patients would not have to worry about paying co-pays or medical bills, because there would be more free clinic s offering medications for cancer treatments, diabetes and other conditions. Explain the elements of successful competition and the use of competitive intelligence. A successful competition would be hospitals and doctors coming together to perform care for patients. Competitive intelligence in health care is observing other health care organizations to see if they are alike and to figure out what their next move is. â€Å"Competitive intelligence or business intelligence is a tool of business leader, a competent central vision resulting from an extensive report about a competitor company that continually seeks to exploit its weak points, everything to avoid surprises competitive.† (Bucur & Pribac, 2010). In order for competition to be successful between hospitals, drug companies, and physicians they all need to provide cheaper prices, quality care, and discounts. Describe the influence competition has on the services offered by health care organizations and the choices patients have. The influence competition has on services from health care organizations is that every organization is different some offer certain services like MRI’s, CT scans, and lab work. While other organizations offer other types of services like rehabilitation, prenatal care, and HIV classes. Patients should always be a part of their treatment plans and they should know all the information about  the procedures that are being done on them. Patients should be allowed to choice what doctor or hospital they want to go with. Patients would like to have accessibility to doctors or specialists without having to go far away from their homes. Conclusion Health care competition is becoming the most talked about issue with hospitals and doctors. If hospitals and doctors worked together there would be fewer problems, because patients would not have to go too far to see their doctors, and they could go to the hospital of their choice. Every day there is something new being invented or used in the medical field which can be competition for all health care systems. There has to be better way to deal with all the competition that is going on in this field. References Bucur, O. N., & Pribac, L. I. (2010). Intelligence key Weapon Competitiveness. Annals of DAAAM & Proceedings, 1473-1474. Web.b.ebschost.com.proxy-library.ashford.edu. Fiscella, K. (2011). Health Care Reform and Equity: Promise, Pitfalls, and Prescriptions. Annals of Family Medicine, 9 (1), 78-84. Doi: 10.1370/afm.1213 Rivers, A. P., & Glover, H. S. (2010). Health Care Competition, Strategic mission, and patient satisfaction: research model and propositions. NCBI. www.ncbi.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC28656781

Contextualise an artwork (or a series of artworks) made from 1980 Essay

Contextualise an artwork (or a series of artworks) made from 1980 onwards. Discuss how this work relates to the ideas presented in three critical texts - Essay Example The most significant meaning of this piece therefore is the theme of death, shows that the death breathe to communicate (Preziosi 2009). However like any other art work the meaning of this piece depends entirely on the viewer, so it may have varying meanings Witkin is an American born 1939 in Brooklyn of a catholic mother and a Jewish father. It is assumed that his art work is attributed to the accident he witnessed at a tender age; hence the graphic and not so appealing photographs (Witkin 1985). A child was knocked down by a car and her head was swept to the feet of Witkin, this left him traumatized and freaked out, hence his inspiration in art to link the dead and the living. He has studied sculpture and worked as a photographer for the better part of his life, but never done commercial photography. He currently resides in the New Mexico (Preziosi 2009). Witkin argues that his work is aimed at making him a better person, loving, and unselfish (Witkin 1985). He goes further in explaining that he goes for the outcasts in society who are his main inspiration. Critics however have found more immorality in the work of Joel peter arguing that is work is not for the faint hearted (Witkin 1985). This is true as most of his pieces of art are horrific, frightening and too graphic making them more horrendous that beautiful. Most of viewers refer to his pieces of art as pornographic material. The photographs of Witkin not only show a single moment but they capture a series of events of these unusual people in the society. Most of the work done by Witkin represents death and or torture. The work of Witkin is based on transforming body parts of the outcasts into portraits, lustrous and glowing in which the strange variations of people and animals to him is beauty. However the interpretation of his portraits on whether they’re

SABMIller Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

SABMIller - Case Study Example It has got into tie-ups with local producers to leverage their skills and also got into joint ventures with some of them as in case of India, Angola and Zambia. It has got into distribution alliances with entities in Vietnam. It has also followed organic growth, but after evaluation it is evident that SABMiller has relied significantly on inorganic strategies in its path of development. The company's current strategic position of expansion and spreading of risks would augur well for the company, specially in the prevailing environment of economic slowdown in the western economies. The Asian economies are relatively in a better shape and this provides better growth opportunities for the brand. Strength: SABMiller global presence, which is spread across different regions of the world, is a major strength. From economically developed markets like US or UK, or economically attractive markets like the rapidly developing nations like China or India, SABMiller has a presence everywhere. Being a South African origin company it is very strong in various African countries also. One of its prime strengths has been to grow and function amidst unfavourable conditions. ... Strength: SABMiller global presence, which is spread across different regions of the world, is a major strength. From economically developed markets like US or UK, or economically attractive markets like the rapidly developing nations like China or India, SABMiller has a presence everywhere. Being a South African origin company it is very strong in various African countries also. One of its prime strengths has been to grow and function amidst unfavourable conditions. During the apartheid era in South Africa, the company did not give up in face of hostile trade sanctions by the international community; instead it focussed on growing its business in South Africa itself for the forty years following the 1950s. The training and practice the company management received during this long period stayed with them and has been a major plus point in their portfolio, whenever they have expanded their operations later on in different parts of the world, to manage unhelpful situations and realitie s. Weakness: SABMiller till recently was a successful brand which had its base in Africa or to be specific in South Africa. This fact was not considered to be a positive by the business analysts, specially those form the established powers of the western part of the world namely, UK, USA. It was always pointed out that for the brand to be well accepted even in the West it had o acquire an established brand in that part of the world. In other words it was made clear that just basing upon its competence and products the South African breweries won't taste much success in the western market, instead it had to market itself hard in that region in order to gain respect and command. As a result of this in 2003 the company had to acquire US based Miller and rebranded itself as SABMiller,

Persuasive Speech Assignment on seat belt Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Persuasive Speech Assignment on seat belt - Essay Example I also referred to my speaker notes occasionally and glance at the presentation regularly to ensure that I was presenting the right content for each slide. So as to make the presentation more interesting, I ensured that I gesticulated. I also made use of my other body parts in application of whatever I have previously learnt about non-verbal communication. One of the things that make the audience get bored during a presentation is monotony. However good the content of the presentation may be, the audience will be distracted by a monotonous voice. In order to ensure that my presentation overcame monotony, I varied my tone and volume. My presentation was well organized. Each slide was not overcrowded with words. Also, each slide was dedicated to a subtopic. Essentially, this was done to ensure that my presentation and speech was well organized and flowed seamlessly. I believe that my presentation was a great

Katherine Mansfield Pastiche Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Katherine Mansfield Pastiche - Essay Example Through this, there is dramatic irony, which makes understanding the character easier because of the isolation of the character. In addition, the representation of other characters is in an unbiased manner that enables one to have a better understanding of the region. In the prequel, the narration mostly focuses on Miss Brills insights on what she hears and sees. The modernist tone helps highlight the theme of aloneness, rejection, and illusion. The narrator pleasantly presents the nostalgic nature of the variation of youthfulness and old age. Miss Brill is sentimental and emotional about her youth, and this now develops into fantasy and senility. The ermine fur largely characterizes the three stages that she undergoes: youthfulness, adulthood, and old age. Her fantasy world begins in her old age, where her world dwells on judging others. The season for social engagements has begun, and young women debuting their latest fashions often characterize the period. Normally, there have been a lot of bustle and social interactions in this perceptible tourist season. Miss Brill adorns her most prized possession, the ermine fur, as she reflects on her youthful life in which she looked forward to dating. Delightfully referring to her ermine fur as her "Lit tle Rogue"(182) evidences her ageing reminiscence. Through third-person narration, it is evident that the day is brilliantly fine and there is a lot of laughter and chirping. However, Miss Brill is perceptibly a lonesome woman on a park bench despite the happiness that surrounds her. Miss Brill does not know the people who are at the park, and only use appearances and clothes to provide descriptions. For example, there is "a fine old man in a velvet coat," an Englishman "wearing a dreadful Panama hat," and "little boys with big white silk bows under their chins". It is evident that she was a wardrobe mistress in her earlier life and still maintains the same judgment

Health care marketing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 4

Health care marketing - Essay Example Once the research design is finalized, collecting data, analyzing it, and making the report is easier. In the past few decades, numerous techniques of birth control have surfaced as a result of advancement in medical sciences and technology. These techniques include but are not limited to contraception, injections, tablets, and operations. However, every technique does not suit every woman because the bodies of different women respond to these techniques differently. Moreover, women tend to be very selective about the techniques of birth control because of their cultural, religious, and ethical concerns. No technique can be generalized as the best or the worst for all. The best solution can be identified only after trying various techniques and comparing the results. This necessitates continued marketing of new techniques and products of birth control through the pharmaceutical reps because they spread awareness about the new ways of birth

FIN Unit1 - Individual Project Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

FIN Unit1 - Individual Project - Research Paper Example The proposal will consider each country’s trade policies, currencies and culture. Turkey and Italy: Review This part of the assignment will discuss about the currency, trade policy and culture of a turkey and Italy. Currency of two countries: Advantages and Disadvantages Italy is the member of European Union. Euro is the currency of Italy. This currency has both advantages and disadvantages. The advantages of this currency outweigh the disadvantages. Euro is the single currency between the members of European Union. It eradicates the need of currency exchanging between Economic and monetary members. Economic and Monetary members saved an average of 30 billion US dollar in a year by switching to this currency. Elimination of volatility of currency exchange rate between the members of European Union is another advantage of Euro. On the other hand, switching to a single currency forced the members of European Union to give up their rights to the change of monetary and economic po licies. It is the major disadvantage of Euro. Despite the disadvantage, the members of European Union made it easy to sell and purchase the goods cross borders. Moreover, the lending and borrowing become easy through the concept of this single currency. In addition, fixed exchange rate of 2.25% provides significant benefits to the members of European Nation. This benefit includes the promotion of international investment and trade. In developing countries this benefit can enhance economic growth. Recent financial crisis is the major concern for Italy. On the other hand, Turkey is not the member of European Union. The country uses Turkish Lira as their major currency. The currency of Turkey has several bilateral tax treaties and investment with US that can ensure the elimination of double taxation. Moreover, this currency gives guarantee repatriation of capital in the convertible currencies. The central bank of Turkey has tightened the monetary policy after the inflation rate increas ed to 10.5% in the year 2011. The central bank of the Republic of Turkey provides several flexible policies, such as foreign exchange auctions, interest rate corridor, and adjustments to the repo auctions and requirements. These policies will help to stabilize the Turkish Lira. The currency recently has depreciated by 25%. EU and Turkey: Trade Policies Europe is considered as the leading global trading block. It accounts for one-fifth of the global trade. Each and every trade policy is developed for the 27 member states among the European Union. These members generally share a single market and border. It helps to empower European Commission when it talks with all the partners of European Union. The commission effectively acts as the negotiator for a specific negotiation process. This commission represents the members of European Union in the World Trade Organization. The European Commission provides unity to mould a key open for global trading process that offers fair rule. However , the trade policy of Europe helps several European organizations to generate employment and significant investment opportunities. Several new markets for the European E\exports are effectively open through the trade policy of Europe. The European Commission works on daily basis to remove unwanted export barriers. Moreover, effective and potential opportunities in European investment are motivating several

Geography Resource Question Essay Example for Free

Geography Resource Question Essay Study figure 4 – what evidence is there to suggest Wem needs re-branding? Using figure 4, it is very apparent to me that Wem needs re-branding. The statement â€Å"the town hall is vacant† means that important council meetings can be held so no changes can be decided on. The fact that it is vacant shows a lack of interest in the community, which makes it not a very desirable place to live. The next statement from a local businessperson â€Å"Too many shops are shut-it’s like a dying place†, is an example of de-population as there aren’t enough people in the area to spend money locally. This creates a lack of jobs which eventually leads to deprivation. People have a low income and usually poor health and housing conditions, so the younger, more qualified people move to where there are jobs (brain drain). Another indicator from figure 4 that suggests Wem needs re-branding is the fact that North Shropshire District Council are asking how they can better market Wem’s market town image. This implies that it has a bad image – or they would not need to better it. Places only usually have a bad image when they show signs of deindustrialisation, depopulation, dereliction or deprivation and therefore need re-branding. Also, elderly resident states how the swimming pool was nearly closed in 2004 and that it is only open ‘on a shoestring’. The fact that it nearly closed and is still in danger of doing so is a sign of deprivation and shows that the town lacks stability. If it did close there would be an even larger lack of jobs and it would reduce Wem’s sphere of influence. A mother of two shows that Wem has a low sphere of influence already. She says â€Å"I prefer to shop in Shrewsbury which is only 6 miles away†. It also shows that Wem lacks chain stores, which drives people away from the town centre meaning less money spent there causing shops to close like previously mentioned. Even people that say positive things about Wem still suggests indirectly that it needs re-branding. â€Å"It’s a wonderful place to retire to†, creates an ageing population which puts pressure on services such as health care and creates a need for more care workers. Elderly people have a low income and are not able to spend much in shops, therefore less money is put back into Wem’s economy. This is called Grey Pounds. It also creates a de-multiplier effect. â€Å"Good High School here-100% A-Level passes† is also a negative thing because it means a lot of people with good qualifications have to move away to get jobs – the brain drain. This creates de-population and also an even larger ageing population. The last statement from a business commuter talks about reasonable house prices. They are reasonable because Wem is in a spiral of decline and shows signs of depreciation so very few people want to move there, meaning owners have to lower house prices.

Performance Management Initiative

Performance Management Initiative Significance of Performance Management Initiatives It is known that the performance management is having importance for the both, the employers and the employees. In relevance, employers having the implementation of the performance management system results in having the adequate understanding regarding the effectiveness of the employees contribution to the achievement of the organizational objectives. Kuvaas, Dysvik, Buch (2014), stated that the presence of the effective performance management system enables the HR managers to evaluate the levels of the employee contribution, based on which the changes are considered, either through training and learning development, or analyzing the gaps, in the performances, which can be filled with motivational practices. The integration of the performance management initiatives is perceived as the influential practice. It is mainly because the presence of either of the initiatives reflects the presence of the transparency in the working environment for the employees and the organization contrib ution for their betterment and increasing their value, serves as the motivational attributes Belogolovsky Bamberger (2014). Therefore, through employee performance management, the organizations not only sustain the employees productivity but also structure the directional paths for their future growth. Performance Management System and the Initiatives In concerned with the MiningCo, isolated location and circumstances of working, also involving the frequent traveling, will consecutively result in the de-motivation of the employees or might result in growing number of the employee quitting, overall resulting in the decrease of the organizational productivity. Thus, it is perceived that MiningCo is having the critical need for implementing the performance management and initiative program. According to He, Zhu, Zheng (2014), in order to achieve the superior organizational performance, the major role is played by the employee engagement and devotion, towards the task performance. Therefore, the presence of the performance management system will support in improving the employee productivity, which is reflected in the outcome generated. Also, the improvement of the employee morale, which is built through time to time performance feedback and appraisals, or the rewards employees received based on their contributions. It is also percei ved that the consideration of the performance initiatives, also effectively contributes to the retention of the loyal and skillful employees, efficient for the mining operations, resulting in the increased profitability. Further, the performance management in the isolated mining location can also be sustained through the effective communication. Pulakos, et al (2015), explained that the performance management is a significant communication, which occurs between the managers and the employees, arriving together at the objective point, through engaging the participative behavior. It is perceived that in order to sustain the morale of the employees participative leadership will be required, which indulges motivational gains, through welcoming the inputs of the employees in the decision-making levels. Further, in accordance with the Maslows Hierarchy of Needs theory and pyramid, the presence of the participative communication among the managers, achieves the belongingness and the love s tage (Jerome 2013). However, perceiving the criticality and distinctiveness of the human behaviors, the major issue is that all the employees are not having the similar intrinsic or extrinsic motivational grounds (Ajmal et al. 2015). The level of the physiological needs, such as the water, food, shelter, etc are often covered through the income distribution, but in the case of retention and achieving the strengths for the future growth additional initiatives are significant, while taking into account the employee behavior identification and understanding is mandatory. Hence, it is perceived that apart from the positive feedback, effective communication, and participative leadership, employees working at the isolated mining location, also requires the achievement of the safety and security, the self-esteem development, and the self-actualization levels. Iverson Zatzick (2011), asserted the frequent feedback from the manager within teamwork, delivers the perception to the employees of being valued, consi dered as the morale-raising investment. Moreover, either the intangible or the tangible, such as the appreciations through certificates, medals, or the financial rewards, also develops the valuable perspective for the employees, motivating them to invest more of their hidden and polished skills. However, considering the critical work description in the mining field, the employees might prefer the financial incentive, as the major motivational initiative. Belogolovsky Bamberger (2014), based on the financial incentives, suggested the use of the direct cash bonuses, medical insurances, or the initiation of the retirement plan, or the profit sharing plans, which provides the employees with the future stability. However, it is critiqued that the financial initiatives only work, when combined with the verbal appreciation and the recognition value. Recommendations Under the developed perspectives, generated through the theoretical implications and based on the practical environment analysis of the working at the isolated mining location, it is recommended that the location requires the integration of the motivational performance management system. It is because of the frequent traveling and the criticality of working in the mining fields results in the stressful conditions, which might decrease the intrinsic motivational circumstances of the employees, resulting in increased efforts to be invested in the employee retentions. Further, in regards to the performance initiatives, it significant to sustain the employee interest, based on which the financial initiatives, such as the quarterly or the annual bonuses, the medical insurance, profit sharing or the retirement plan is highly required. The major rationale behind the integration of these initiatives is to enhance the employee morale, through maintaining their intrinsic and extrinsic motivati onal factors, which is supportive for the organization productivity. It is mainly beneficial for the organizational performance, while on the other hand, it will not only enhance the employees skills and their future career growth but will also support in positive decision making for moving forward. Case Two: Staff Rotation Retention Issues Criticality in Single Entity Operations Leisenring et al (2012), defined single entity business operations, as the separate out departments, subsidiaries, or any of the business unit, for which the financial information is reported to the parent company and to the operational legal agencies. However, in the current era, in which the businesses are widely expanded, the single entity exposed to the major issues of external threats, and requires, adequate environmental management. The similar are the circumstances, reflected by the provided case. Iossa Martimort (2012), explained the rationale behind corporate perceiving the use of single entity operations, stating that through the single entity business structure, the risk allocations are effective, the operation costs remain low, and also include certain legal benefits. Nevertheless, in relevance to the Economic Theory, it is also reflected that the engaging of the single entity, in the present initiates the controlling and decision-making issues, for the managers; while o n the other hand, it makes the responsibilities of the managers, difficult for protecting the business assets (Foss, Foss, Nell 2012); (Ellis 2016). Therefore, it is perceived that although having certain benefits, the single entity business operations are comparatively having the critical issues, such as the protection of the operations and the business assets, the control management, the less staff rotation, and the criticality of decision making. Under similar consequences, the single entity operations at the isolated locations are also having the external threats, which are pressurizing the internal management of the skilled workers. The major issue at the MiningCo. single entity regions is the presence of the limited number of employees, which is mostly managed through the number of fly-in and fly-out, however, overall increasing the complexity in the staff rotations. Further, another complication is the growing exposure to the terrorist threats, such as the presence of the ISIS in the Middle East regions. In addition, the economic crisis of Greece, are further acting as the major de-motivational consequences, which are potentially provoking the senior executives to quit from the company. Altogether, for the MiningCo, it will create the drastic impact, as the continuous threatening will result in the inefficient decision making, loss of the control, and the emergence of the retention complexities. Nevertheless, under such c ritical circumstances, the corporate is not having the significant control on the external threat reductions, however, the motivational rationales and the employee retentions can be considered at the prior level. The Motivational Attributes Retention Policies Van De Voorde, Paauwe Van Veldhoven (2012), stated that the considering the significant concept of motivation is associated with the number of factors, which the companies considers and integrates, in order to either obtain the satisfactory levels of the organizational performances or in order to manage the critical issue occurred. It is evaluated that for integration of the motivational options, the development of the motivational strategies and its planning is critical, as the human behavior and understanding of the motivational aspects are distinctive. Further, if the company is previously having financial incentives, as the major motivational factor, the major issue will be satisfying the employees on the new motivational grounds (Kehoe Wright 2013). In the light of the Maslows Hierarchy of needs, the major issue at the MiningCo is related to the ineffective management at the isolated location, that is reflecting the absence of the physiological and the safety motivational fact ors, which are having the potential impact of the external threats and the absence of fundamental employee retention policies. Under such circumstances, the corporate can consider the initiation and distribution of the potential security plans, not only provide the monetary safety for the employees, such as the profitability share or the retirement plan but the environmental security, which can develop the perspective of working in the secure environment. In accordance to the Hawthorne Effect, the change in the physical working environment, such as through lightening effects, the safety and security systems, or the comfortable working and break hours, results in increased employee productivity (Miller Cockrell 2015). In addition, Twemlow (2012), revealed that generally in the economic crisis the leaders or the managers, get engaged with the one-sided focus, taking organizational pressures. However, it is more effective to actively engage with the employees, involving the support and feedback mechanism, which results in the positive impact on the employees, signifying the attribute of value, and hence, resulting in increased productivity. Similarly, perceiving the financial motivation critical during economic crisis, employees motivation and their retention can be practiced by rewarding the individual contributions, increasing the attribute of recognition in the working environment. Recommendations For the MiningCo, the two of the major issues, faced by the entity, mainly include the isolated workplace environment and the outside security threats. In order to overcome this, the recommended option is given in the light of the Maslows hierarchy of needs, whereby, the entity needs to focus on the physiological needs of employees. It is the second most important need of employees, that they want security at their workplace, and in their job, from the inside, as well as, the outside threats. Otherwise, such the security threats disrupt employees, in fulfilling their duties, and put unnecessary pressure on them, leads decline in the level of productivity. The second recommendation is provided to MiningCo, in the light of the Hawthorne Effect, that suggests that employees want the attractive working environment, group involvement, appreciation and attention of the management. Such the factors have importance, more than the financial incentives, provided to the workers, mainly in the times of economic crisis. However, while making isolated sites of the company, it causes separate the workers, through the other sites, as well as, the head office. Hence, it needs to develop the innovative working environment, through installing hi-tech lightening and the safety and security systems. Further, the communication and coordination, and the feedback, among the different sites, are required, which will not only result in the requirement of the staff rotation but will develop the integration of the activities of the members of different sites, generating efficient productivity. Last, in regards of considering the economic crisis in Greece, it is recommended that the MiningCo, isolated fields, should implement the individual reward perspective, along with the above-articulated recommendations. In case, the workers can be provided with the monetary rewards, such as discount vouchers, a gift or the complementary box, etc. However, the major criticality, which is to be considered, is the behavioral perceptions of the senior executives, analyzing the factors of their motivation, and hence, designs the motivational and the retention packages. Case Three: Crisis Management Team According to Vaiman Collings (2013), the Crisis Management Team is structured, in order to provide the support to the organizational management through reducing the level of the issues, which may reflect during the crisis time frames. Hence, below is the description for the need of structuring the CMT at the MiningCo, covering the increasing risk of talent management, knowledge transfer, and the employee retention. The Substantial Talent Gap Under my evaluation, the MiningCo, individual site, has impacted by the major talent gap, prevailing in the industry. It is identified that the employee retention is becoming difficult, while on the other hand, the workers talent pool, is shrinking in number and the productive skills, as the older generation, is either retiring or leaving the organization, taking the profound pool of knowledge and experience. Hence, it is perceived that within no time, the transfer of the adequate knowledge and the learning of skills will become non-existent. In addition, forming the collaboration, with the external learning and training schools of the mining industry, will require the additional investment and the long time durations, hence, making the worker shifts adjustments difficult. Therefore, in concerned with the substantially growing talent gap, I consider the development of the Crisis Management Team is the appropriate option, as for certain time, it will control the employee retention and the sustains the motivational grounds, based on which the talent gap generated will be recovered. Team Structure and Function The team structure of the Crisis Management Team (CMT), will be similar to the organizational structure of the MiningCo, under such circumstances, the employees will be having the adequate understating of the knowledge inflow and transfer and communication, exhibiting effective familiarity. Moreover, the structured team will act as, or resembles the structure and the functionality of the Regional Emergency Management Team. The selected members of the team will act as the knowledge and the support provider at the emergency sites, sharing their experience and the skills with the less experienced or the newly employed workers. The team will also be responsible for managing the specific region issues and the overall impacts, through effective communication with the workers, analyzing and discussing their concerns. It will also function, as the training personnel for the specific site region, developing the training agenda, the scheduling of the groups, and analyzing the aftereffects of t he training sessions, while also providing the active and spontaneous participative feedbacks. In addition, the leader of the team will be elected through the mutual consent of the potential stakeholders, generated through voting practice, and the leader, referred as the Regional Crisis Manager, is entitled to integrate the transformational and the participative behavior. Selection Criteria Referring to the selection criteria for the CMT, the most appropriate and the skilled members will be considered, comparatively having the valid and the significant experience. The skilled criteria will be developed, including the qualification bar, the presence of all the skills required, and the years of experience, additionally taking into account the past evaluations of the members of the crisis management. Further, the current employees, having the critical thinking ability, for analyzing the coming challenge and the ability of spontaneous decision making will be selected. However, it is considered that most of the senior executives will be positioned in the CMT, as it will act as the value for them, proving them with the substantial responsibility, while also covering the effectiveness of retention. Further, the member will be appointed through different regions, in order to perform the effective mechanism of the staff rotation, providing the opportunity to the members for revi talizing their skills and the motivational level. Team Format The positions within the CMT includes, the CMT (Regional Crisis) Manager, the Human Resource Advisor, and the two of the immediate HR training, retention, and strategic reporting officers, the Environmental Evaluator and the Advisor, responsible for analyzing the chances for the emerging crisis, through evaluating the internal and external environment. The position will also contribute to planning and decision making, coordinating the planned implementations, training needs, and scheduling, and updating the incident plans, in order to mitigate the threat of the uncertain or certain challenges. The Crisis Management Advisor will support the functions, through approving the decisions and the changes required, by taking into consideration, the legal, financial, and employee productivity and concerns. The CM Advisor will also be responsible for assigning the tasks or the changes in the regional operations. In addition, the Subject Matter Experts will be selected, for assisting the CMT Ma nager, the CM Advisor, and the HR training personnel, as needed. Reward Strategies The crisis management is the crucial responsibility for the employees, as it requires highly attentive behavior and the adequate and spontaneous decision making, which also results in the increase of the workload and the stress. However, under such circumstances, I perceived that major role will be played by the CMT leadership, that is the CMT Manager, high responsible for initiating and encouraging the effective communication. Hence, the employees will understand the value of their presence, resulting in holding of the motivational impact. Further, the feedback generation on the certain intervals will also exhibit the sense of recognition and responsibilities. In addition, as discussed earlier, small monetary rewards shall be provided to all the team members, such as participating bonuses, additional paid leaves, or either the certification for CMT skills, etc. In regards of overcoming the crisis of the continuous decline in the presence and the transfer of the adequate knowledge an d the learning of skills, the HR managers can be provided with the technological systems, for managing their responsibilities, resulting in decreased workload, through presence of hi-tech systems, under the influences of the innovative technology strategies. Further, the senior executives, considering leaving the organization should be hired in the CMT, exhibiting the staff rotation, and assigning them the role of the training leader, will provide them with the additional recognitions, as their service and experience will be transferred and recognized.

Zora Neale Hurston Essay -- Zora Neale Hurston

  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Throughout the history of our great nation, we have been blessed with many great writers those black and white. Some of these writers have left profoundly inspirational impressions on our lives, touching us in a way that will never be forgotten. During the â€Å" â€Å"Roaring 20’s,† many new aspects of life were introduced to American society, forever changing our lives. Along with the â€Å"Roaring 20’s,† came the Harlem Renaissance, a cultural movement during which black art, literature, and music received much deserved credit. It originated in New York City's Harlem district and was also called the Black Renaissance, or New Negro Movement. It was quite common in African-American society for people to exchange tales and folklores that stemmed as far back as their ancestor’s days in Africa. One of the most accomplished writers of this time was a beautiful, young and extremely intelligent woman. This young woman took this comm on practice and used them in her novels and tales. It was this simple yet intriguing idea for writing stories that helped launch Zora into the forefront of the Harlem Renaissance. Regardless, of her trying and discouraging lifestyle as a child, Zora chose to press onward and upward throughout her life. Zora had more than her fair share of hardships from her early childhood up until her last days on this earth. Though tough times were all too frequent, Zora continuously worked tirelessly towards her destiny. In her lifetime she was acknowledged as a leading force for the Harlem Renaissance, forever revolutionizing America’s views of African-American’s as well as the great intelligence and creative capability of women. Through her short stories, poems, and novels Zora was able to reach many people nation wide and therefore further express her views and beliefs to those black and white.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  On January 7, 1891 in Notasulga, Alabama Lucy Ann Potts Hurston gave birth to the sixth of her eight children. This child was given the name Zora or â€Å"light of dawn,† little did her parents know, she would certainly live up to her meaningful name. Lucy Ann Potts Hurston was an elementary school teacher until she later married John Hurston, a mulatto pastor of Zion Hope Baptist Church and the Macedonia Baptist church, farmer, carpenter and later Mayor of Eatonville of 1897 serving three terms. When she was th... ... using blacks as a means of buying votes. In 1954 she criticized the desegregation ruling in Brown vs. Board of Education of Topeka, Ks. In this article she stated that she believed that black children and white children should not attend the same schools.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Zora went on writing many publications that separated her from blacks; she was marked as a traitor. For this reason she spent her last days alone and in poverty working as a domestic until falling ill and dying of a stroke in 1960. However controversial, Zora will be remembered for her great contributions to the Harlem Renaissance and fine literary works. She has been a very influential and a true inspirational figure to many writers of today. One that comes to mind is a local playwright by the name of Mari Evans, who recently did a rendition of Hurston’s novel Their Eyes Were Watching God, titled â€Å"Eyes† Zora had a different outlook on life than most African Americans of her time but has remained the cornerstone of the Harlem Renaissance making black culture known and felt by all. That is why Zora will remain an outstanding and successful pillar in the literary world for many years to come.

Iago and Honesty in Shakespeares Othello Essay -- Othello essays Shak

Iago and Honesty in Othello    Iago uses the word "honest" in act three of Othello in three primary ways.   The first way he uses it is to mean honourable, about Cassio.   He uses this meaning of the word to force Othello to doubt Cassio's honesty, and question his hounorablility.   The second way is to mean faithful, both about Desdemona and Cassio.   Iago uses it in the context that the two may be "truthful," again to make Othello doubt.   The third way is Iago's most effective use, which is to use honest in the context to mean truthful, as in, he has told Othello the truth.   However, Shakespeare has created tremendous dramatic irony, for we know that Iago is being anything except truthful.   The three uses of the word honest are used largely in the subtext of the act, they are used by Iago to force Othello to question his wife's integrity, and honesty.   Shakespeare uses the word by Iago to plant tremendous doubt in Othello's mind.   The word is also used by Iago in the action line.   His objective is constantly to make Othello think things without actually being told them, and Iago's parroting of the word and constant useage do this quite nicely.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Iago initially uses the word honest to mean honourable, in reference to Cassio.   Othello has asked him if "he [Cassio] is not honest?"   To which Iago parrots back "Honest my lord?"   This usage is constant with what Othello means, whether Cassio is honourable or not.   However, Iago uses the word to cast doubt on Othello.   By parroting it back, he is making it seem to Othello that he does not want to answer the question, that he doesn't want to tell Othello something.   This is seen in the subtext that Iago wishes to create.   This use of it also contributes to Iago's objective, to... ...o uses the word almost laughingly behind Othello's back, telling him that he has been driven to honesty, when he know that Iago is only telling Othello half truths.   Shakespeare uses the word effectively to create dramatic irony.    Works Cited Barthelemy, Anthony G. "Introduction" Critical Essays on Shakespeare's Othello. Ed. Anthony G. Barthelemy Pub. Macmillan New York, NY 1994. (page 1-19) Jones, Eldred. "Othello- An Interpretation" Critical Essays on Shakespeare's Othello. Ed. Anthony G. Barthelemy Pub. Macmillan New York, NY 1994. Shakespeare, William. Othello. In The Electric Shakespeare. Princeton University. 1996. http://www.eiu.edu/~multilit/studyabroad/othello/othello_all.html No line nos. Snyder, Susan. "Beyond the Comedy: Othello" Modern Critical Interpretations, Othello Ed. Harold Bloom, Pub. Chelsea House New Haven CT 1987.   

Thomas Jefferson Essay -- essays research papers

Introduction Thomas Jefferson spent most of his career in public office and made his greatest contributions to his country in the field of politics. He loved liberty in every form, and he worked for freedom of speech, press, religion, and other civil liberties. Jefferson was the 3rd president of the United States and best remembered as a great president and as the author of the Declaration of Independence. Jefferson's interests and talents covered an amazing range. He became one of the leading American architects of his time and designed the Virginia Capital, the University of Virginia, and his own home, Monticello. He greatly appreciated art and music and tried to encourage their advancement in the United States. He also won lasting fame as a diplomat, a political thinker, and a founder of the Democratic Party. Early Life Jefferson was born on April 13, 1743, at Shadwell, the family farm in Goochland County, Virginia. He was the third child in the family and grew up with six sisters and one brother. Two other brothers died in infancy. His father, Peter Jefferson, had served as surveyor, sheriff, colonel of militia, and member of House of Burgesses. Thomas' mother, Jane Randolph Jefferson, came from one of the oldest families in Virginia. 	Thomas developed the normal interests of a country boy, such as hunting, fishing, horseback riding, and canoeing. He also learned to play the violin and to love music. When Jefferson was fourteen, his father died. Since he was the oldest son he became the head of the family. He inherited more than 2,500 acres of land and 20 slaves. His guardian, John Hairvie managed the estate until Jefferson was twenty-one. 	At the age of nine, Jefferson began studies under a tutor. He learned Latin, Greek, and French. In 1760, at the age of sixteen, he entered the college St. William and Mary at Williamsburg. There, young Jefferson met two men, William Small and Judge George Wythe, who would have a great influence on him. Small was a professor of mathematics at the college. Small introduced his "...eager young disciple...(Worldbook)" to Wythe, one of the most experienced lawyers in the province. Through Small and Wythe, Jefferson became friendly with Governor Francis Fauquier. These four spent countless evenings at the governor's mansion, talking and playing chamber music. 	Jefferson spent two yea... ... Jefferson prepared a written vocabulary of Indian language. He arranged for the French sculptor Jean Houdon to come to America to make a statue of George Washington. Jefferson also posed for Houdon and for the famous American portrait painter Gilbert Stuart. He enjoyed playing the violin in chamber music concerts. Jefferson also founded the University of Virginia, "Of which he was very proud (Internet)". He died in 1826, and left his family deep in debt. The Executor's Sale in the winter of 1827 put up for sale 130 of his slaves. They sold all of his possession's in three years. Conclusion 	Thomas Jefferson was a great and powerful leader who led a full and successful life in America. Even as a young boy, Jefferson was an independent thinker, which led him into a career in politics. Jefferson also was a great writer and inventor. Some of his writings include the Declaration of Independence and the Bill for Establishing Religious Freedom, both which shaped the nation into what it is today. Jefferson helped set a standard for the United States as well as the rest of the world. Without him, the United States would not be the land of justice, liberty and the free.

Swot Analysis of Network Rail

SWOT Analysis Strengths: Network Rail took over ownership by buying Railtrack plc, which was in railway administration, from the Railtrack Group plc for ? 500 million in 2002. Railtrack had become subject to broad-based and persistent criticism, notably over cost escalations and delays with the West Coast Main Line modernisation and the circumstances surrounding accidents at Southall (1997), Ladbroke Grove (1999) and Hatfield (2000). After these incidents Railtrack’s cost spiralled out of control, to remedy this situation which would ultimately lend to the company collapsing and being purchased by the government. By purchasing Railtrack when the company was being heavily criticised and by renaming it Network Rail it was seen as a favourable action because Railrack was in such a bad state it could only improve by being taken over. Network Rail are currently investing ? 800 million into the railway tracks every to improve and maintain the tracks, in 2006 alone the company spent ? billion on engineering projects improving stations, track and the efficiency of the railway industry. The company has also used this money to acquire state-of-the-art technology and invest large amounts of money in machinery such as ballast cleaners, the high-output train and track-relaying train. Spending this amount of money on the railway shows current and potential passengers that the company is very dedicated to maintaining and improving the railway and the services they provide. Weaknesses: During the Christmas period of 2007 Network Rail planned maintenance to take place whilst passenger levels would be low with the expectation of the work being complete by New Years Eve. However this maintenance work got delayed and passengers were advised to check travelling schedules before attempting the go to their destination. The delays lasted for a total of 3 days and the service resumed to normal on 2nd January 2008. These delays heavily affected passengers as well as operating companies such as Virgin trains as 50,000 people had booked tickets to travel on 31st January. By not informing the operating companies of the maintenance work they had planned for the holiday period they have damaged their relationship with the operating companies. They have also damaged their relationship with passengers as the delays hindered them from getting to spend the holiday period with their families. The derailments which occurred at Grayrigg, Potters Bar and Epsom have affected the reputation of Network Rail as they have accepted responsibility for the incidents. As a result of this the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) are currently conducting an investigation in to the incident and criminal charges may be brought. In the eyes of the public these incidents may bring back memories of the accidents at Southall, Ladbroke Grove and Hatfield and the public may begin to question the maintenance work which is being carried out on the railways. Network Rail announced at the beginning of 2008 that they would be raising train ticket fares. The regulated fares which included season tickets increased by an average of 4. % and many unregulated fares were set to rise by much more. The increase in ticket prices did not go down well with consumer groups who said the rises were unjustified, but train operators claimed the rises were needed to improve the railway and its services. Opportunities: Network Rail has the opportunity to transform Britain’s railway. They are trying to do this with their current projects such as: †¢Providing faste r journeys between London, Manchester and Glasgow – Investing into the UK’s busiest railway line, the West Coast. In the last two years the London-Manchester journey time has come down by over 30 minutes. Vital work continues in 2008 to reduce the bottleneck at Trent Valley and to improve capacity through Rugby and Nuneaton. †¢Improving communications between train drivers and signallers – Investing ? 1. 2 billion in building a nationwide system which enables train drivers and signallers to communicate securely at all times. This is an important safety improvement for the railway. Upgrading London’s transport network – Plans to upgrade the Thameslink route – A vital north-south artery through London – are progressing and the company plans to build world class stations in the UK’s capital. †¢Changing the face of Scotland's railway – Plans to re-introduce the railway line between Airdrie and Bathgate. This is in addition to the redevelopment of Edinburgh Waverley station which is already underway Network Rail is also planning to have a lar ge programme of investment for the London 2012 Olympic Games. By raising the fares on train tickets Network rail have the potential to have an increased net profit at the end of 2008. If the company figures show more profit than the previous this means the company has more money to invest into the railways. Threats: The threats that Network Rail face are fines from the Office of Rail Regulation (ORR) for the delays to train services over the Christmas period. Network Rail have already incurred 2 fines from the ORR ? 2. 4m during Christmas in 2006 following signalling problems at Portsmouth and a record ? 4m for engineering overrunning during the New Year of 2008. By not meeting the standards of the ORR Network Rail will continue to incur fines, by having to pay fines costing millions of pounds they are losing money which they could use to invest back into the railways. Another threat which Network Rail faces is the threat of passengers deciding to travel by car and also companies wanting to use Lorries to transport goods (road haulage). Road ha ulage is the use of heavy goods vehicle’s to transport products and materials from place to place. This could happen if railway lines get congested or routes are closed due to maintenance work or lack of use. PESTLE Analysis Political: Network Rail has to follow the rules of the Office of Rail Regulation (ORR). If they do not adhere to the rules and regulations of the ORR, they could face a fine which could result in the company paying millions of pounds. With England being part of the European Union (EU) Network Rail can buy and sell materials from any country in the EU because the has lowered the trade barriers. Economic The railways can be used to transport goods all over the country. Some of the benefits of using a train to transport goods are: †¢Faster than lorries/trucks †¢Trains have multiple carriages so a number of goods can be delivered at once †¢It’s cheaper than using lorries/trucks As well as being part of the EU, Britain can trade materials with countries outside of the EU. Being able trade goods with a number of countries allows Network Rail to negotiate better deals on goods. The inflated price of fuel and the introduction of the low emission zone may increase the demand for railway industry. As the inflation arise the costs of living increases therefore the price of using the railway must be at the price that the country can afford. Often delays to the passengers and delivering goods may costs the individuals and businesses, which may impact on the UK economy. Social With Network Rail increasing the prices of train tickets at the beginning of the year consumers were not happy with the unjustified price increase, however operators said that the price increase would mean that more money would be spent on the trains, railways and other services. The railway system is a system that will always be needed in England because the trains reduce journey times and some trains produce lower emission fumes than cars. Having fast trains means passengers can get from place to place within 3 hours. Since network Rail has been investing money over the last 2 year the journey time from London to Manchester as decreased by over 30 minutes Technological Network Rail have used large sums of money to purchase state of the art echnology to help improve the communication between train drivers and signallers to communicate securely at all times, which is very an important part of railway safety. They have also invested money in machinery such as ballast cleaner, the high-output train and track-relaying train. Spending large sums of money to improve communication and improve the railway shows that Network Rail are trying to the railways and other components up to date. Legal Network Rail need to follow the rules and regulations of transport or rai lway acts which have been set by the government. The modern railway statutes are: †¢Railways Act 1993 †¢Competition Act 1998 (insofar as it confers competition powers on the Office of Rail Regulation) †¢Transport Act 2000 †¢Railways and Transport Safety Act 2003 †¢Railways Act 2005 The company is accountable to a body of Members through its corporate constitution, to its commercial train operator customers through its contracts with them (the contracts are subject to regulatory oversight), and to the public interest through the statutory powers of the Office of Rail Regulation. The Office of Rail Regulation in turn operates within the overall transport policy set by the UK Department for Transport Environmental Being a company which is governed Network Rail need to be seen as acting environmentally friendly. In an article written by The Times Newspaper (2007) the title for the article reads â€Å"Rail industry admits that it’s often greener for families to travel by car†. This statement means that travelling by car is less harm to the environment then travelling by train. Network Rail has a social responsibility to keep pollution emissions low as the government is currently working towards reducing the carbon emissions in the UK to slow down global warming. â€Å"Modern diesel-powered trains are so polluting that a family of three or more would be responsible for at least double the carbon dioxide emissions on many routes when travelling by rail compared with driving in a typical medium-sized car. † Source: http://travel. timesonline. co. uk/tol/life_and_style/travel/article2067255. ece

Handwashing Related Literature

There are grave consequences when people do not wash their hands or wash them improperly. It is known that hands are the main media for contaminants getting to people, whether the infections are airborne, oral or tactile. Infectious diseases that are commonly spread through hand to hand contact include the common cold, and several gastrointestinal disorders such as diarrhoea (WaterAid, 2006). Human hands usually harbour microorganisms both as part of a person’snormal microbial flora as well as transient microbes acquired from the environment (Lindberg et al, 2004).According to Kartha (200! ), many people consider handwashing a waste of time. However, they are unaware that hands are hosts to many bacteria and viruses that can cause infectious diseases. Every human being comes in contact with germs and bacteria in their daily life. These harmful microorganisms are present all around – on door knobs, faucets, light switches, tables, and railings. People touch these things during the day while doing their routine work without much thought, and then touch their face, eyes, nose, and sometimes eat food too.Through these acts, the microorganisms get into the body, causing several diseases. People, who are careless at washing hands, risk catching flu, or cold, or any gastrointestinal illness (Kartha, 2001). Mayo Clinic (2009) also asserted that as people touch one another, surfaces and objects throughout the day, they accumulate germs on their hands. In turn, they can infect themselves with these germs by touching their eyes, nose or mouth. Hands serve as vectors transmitting pathogens to foodstuffs and drinks and to the mouths of susceptible hosts (Huttly, 1997).Many food borne diseases and pathogenic microorganisms are spread by contaminated hands. If pathogens from human faeces enter a person’s mouth, they will cause diarrhoea. School going children are exposed to greater risks of diarrhoeal disease by consuming contaminated water and food (Dasg upta, 2005). Students in schools or colleges are more likely to take meal and water without washing hands and may be exposed to risk of infection (Tambekar et al, 2007). If proper treatment is not given, this can prove fatal, particularly to children (WHO, 2006).In Ghana, funeral celebrations are very important social functions at which hundreds of people gather. From experience, one important activity during such gatherings is handshaking. Indeed, it is considered offensive and disrespectful for cultural values when one does not proffer his hand for shaking. It is however unfortunate that when people are served snacks and food during such occasions, handwashing facilities are not made available. People therefore eat with unwashed hands.The advent of some serious gastrointestinal illnesses (for example, cholera) had been traced to such gatherings. Handwashing defined Handwashing is defined as the act of cleansing the hands with water or other liquid, with or without the inclusion of soap or other detergent, for the purpose of removing soil or microorganisms (Biology-online, 2011; Medconditions, 2011). 2. 6. 1 Attitudes of handwashing Handwashing has been an age old practice globally. It is carried out for varied reasons, including religious, cultural, health and moral reasons.Attitudes towards handwashing are very important. They go a long way to determine the practice of handwashing and its effect on health. In a study by Hoque et al (1995), 90 women from randomly selected households in rural Bangladesh were observed washing their hands after defaecation. Thirty-eight percent of the women used mud, 2% used ash, 19% used soap, and 41% used water only without a rubbing agent. A total of 44% of women washed both hands, while 56% washed only their left hands.About 78% of the women dried or wiped their hand on their clothes and the rest let them air dry. According to SHEWA-B (2007), in Bangladesh (and in some regions of the sub-continent), observations on handwash ing practices identified that handwashing with water alone before food preparation and eating was quite common (47 – 76%), but washing hands with soap or ash was observed =2% of the time. Washing of both hands with soap or ash was more common after defaecation (17 – 18 %), after cleaning a child’s anus (22 – 24%) or after handling cow dung (12 – 20%).Findings also showed that availability of handwashing materials such as soap, ash or mud at the site of handwashing was low, with approximately 30%, and =1% of households having the specified material. Water availability was high. Hand drying was observed to take place before preparing food, after defaecation, after eating and before serving food. A high proportion of females did not dry their hands after handwashing. A staggering one out of three Americans skips handwashing after going to the bathroom.Only 30% of people who have coughed or sneezed into their hands wash their hands afterwards. Kids are even worse. In a survey of junior high and high school boys and girls, only 58% of girls and 48% of boys washed up after using the rest room (Wisegeek. com, 2011). Worldwide rates of handwashing with soap are very low. While many wash their hands with water, only a small percent use soap at critical times. In Ghana, for example, the rates for handwashing with soap after defaecation is 3% and after cleaning up a child is also 3% each (PPPHW, 2010). 2. 6. Economic considerations Efforts to modify human behaviour are complex. People can only expect to be successful if there is an understanding of what motivates, facilitates, and hinders adequate handwashing behaviour (Curtis et al, 1997; O’Boyle et al, 2001). Curtis et al (2001) noted that modern methods of promoting handwashing can be effective and cost-effective on a large scale. Studies suggest that soap is widely available, even in poor households in developing countries, although it is mostly used for bathing and washing c lothes (Borghi et al, 2002).In rural India and Bangladesh, soap is often considered a beautifying agent or for the physical feeling of cleanliness which it gives, rather than being associated with the removal of microorganisms or health benefits (Hoque and Briend, 1991; Hoque et al, 1995). In low income communities, soil, mud or ash may be used as a zero cost alternative to soap for handwashing (Zeitlyn and Islam, 1991). Hoque et al (1995) again reported that altogether, 81% of non-soap users stated that they might use soap, but were unable to afford it. Critical times for handwashingA defensive strategy is important when trying to avoid infecting oneself with an illness lying in wait (Wisegeek. com, 2011). According to Mayo Clinic (2009), frequent handwashing is one of the best ways to avoid getting sick and spreading illness. Although it is impossible to keep hands germ-free, washing hands frequently can help limit the transfer of bacteria, viruses and other microbes. It is possib le that people do not wash their hands as often as they should. Handwashing prevents both diarrhoea and respiratory infections effectively whendone properly and at critical times.The critical times must be observed and conscious efforts made to clean hands at such times. A number of sources (Mayo Clinic, 2009; ASH, 2011, All Family Resources, 1999 and CDC, 2010) agree on a number of critical times when hands must be washed. The critical times include: ? Before preparing food; ? Before eating; ? Before treating wounds or giving medicine; ? Before touching a sick or injured person; ? Before inserting or removing contact lenses; ? After preparing food, especially raw meat or poultry; ? After using the toilet/bathroom; ? After changing a diaper; After touching an animal, or animal toys, leashes or waste; ? After blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing into your hands; ? After touching a sick or injured person; ?After handling garbage or something that could be contaminated, such as a cl eaning cloth or soiled shoes; ? Whenever hands look dirty. Some include also washing hands after handling money (ASH, 2011), before going home, immediately one gets home, on arrival at the workplace (All Family Resources, 1999), after combing hair (USDA, 2011) and after smoking (Earth’s kids, 2011). . 6. 4 Process of handwashing Though people know the importance of handwashing, not many know how to do it properly. Handwashing does not mean just running water over your palms. It has to be done very carefully and in detail (Kartha, 2001). Mayo Clinic (2009) suggests the following steps: ? Wet hands with (running) water; ?Apply cleansing agent; ? Lather well; ? Rub hands vigorously for at least 10 to 20 seconds, remembering to scrub all surfaces, including the backs of hands, wrists, between fingers and under fingernails; ? Rinse well; Dry hands with a clean or disposable towel or dryer. The above steps have been advocated by several sources as well. These include ASH (2011); Al l Family Resources (1999); CDC (2010); Kartha (2001); Wisegeek. com (2011) and Gavin (2011). 2. 6. 5 Correct length of time Equally important is the length of time that hands are to be washed. The key is to lather up hands and rub vigorously for at least 15 to 20 seconds. Some suggest singing ‘Happy Birthday’ or the ABCs to keep a child washing hands for the correct amount of time (Wisegeek. com, 2011).Earth’s Kids (2011) suggested that children sing a fun song while washing hands to mark the time of 15 – 20 seconds, so that they know how long they wash. Gavin ((2011) said to use soap and lather up for 20 seconds. Mayo Clinic (2009) noted that wet, soapy hands should be rubbed together outside the stream of running water for at least 20 seconds. CDC (2010) suggested scrubbing hands for 20 seconds, and while singing ‘Happy Birthday’ twice to get to 20 seconds. PPPHW (2008) also suggested singing any local fun song that would make up to 20 secon ds while hands are being rubbed together after applying cleansing agent.According to ASH (2011), hands must be rubbed together for at least 10 seconds while singing ‘Happy Birthday’ once for a perfect length of time. Rub hands vigorously until a soapy lather appears and continue for at least 15 seconds (All Family Resources, 1999). Mohave County Information Technology (2001) also recommends rubbing hands briskly for at least 20 seconds. From the foregone discussions it can be seen that rubbing hands together vigorously for anytime between 10 to 20 seconds or more should be adequate for pathogen reduction on the hands. Quantity of water needed for rinsing handsAccessible and plentiful water has been shown to encourage better hygiene, particularly handwashing (Curtis and Cairncross, 2000). Also, interventions to improve water quality at the source along with treatment of household water and safe storage systems have been shown to reduce diarrhoea incidence by as much as 4 7% (WHO, 2008). Hoque et al (1995), in a study, observed that as many as 74% of the 90 women rinsed their hands with 0. 7 litre of water or less. They however recommend that rinsing with 2 litres of clean water was protective, although such volumes may be difficult tosustain in the absence of on-plot access to water.Since pathogens removed during handrubbing have to be rinsed away, there must be a reasonable flow of water (Standard Operating Procedures, 1997). Mayo Clinic (2009) suggested the use of running water for rinsing hands. Water scarcity has an impact on hygiene practices such as handwashing. It could lead to person-to-person transmission due to inadequate personal and domestic hygiene. Water scarcity can therefore result in faecal-oral, skin and eye infections (Cairncross, 2011). Temperature of waterContrary to popular belief, scientific studies by Michaels et al (2002), and Laestadius and Dimberg (2005), have shown that using warm water has no effect on reducing the micro bial load on hands. Hot water that is comfortable for washing hands is not hot enough to kill bacteria. Microorganisms proliferate much faster at body temperature (37 degrees C). However, warm, soapy water is more effective than cold, soapy water at removing the natural oils which hold soils and bacteria (US Food and Drugs Administration, 2006). All Family Resources (1999) indicated that warm water should always be used for handwashing.ASH (2011), Kartha (2001), Wisegeek. com (2011) and Gavin (2011) also suggested the use of warm water for handwashing. CDC (2010) said that clean running water that was warm or cold could be used. The temperature of water has not been shown to be important in handwashing (Standard Operating Procedures, 1997). Efficacy of cleansing agents in microbial reduction Esrey et al (1991) have suggested that reducing the rate of pathogen ingestion causes the incidence of severe infections to begin to fall before that of mild ones. The reduction in the severity of infection is the ultimate purpose of handwashing.Therefore microbial reduction on hands would reduce the ingestion of pathogens since the hands have been proved to be the main transport route for gastrointestinal diseases, respiratory tract infections, skin infections (eg. impetigo) as well as eye infections (eg. conjunctivitis). This makes the agent employed in handwashing a necessary factor. Water only Pure water has a pH of seven, which makes it neutral. It is also known as a universal solvent. A number of studies (Cairncross, 1993; Ghosh et al, 1995; Khan, 1982; Oo et al, 2000) suggested that handwashing with water only provides little or no benefit.The application of water alone is inefficient for cleaning skin because water is often unable to remove fats, oils and proteins, which are components of organic soil (Standard Operating Procedure, 1997). Kalanke (Mali) (2011) noted that handwashing with water alone does not remove many germs. Hoque and Briend (1991), on the contra ry, showed that whilst less effective than when using a rubbing agent such as soap, mud or ash, some reductions in contamination were found when washing with water alone.Data on the effectiveness of handwashing with soap-based formulations, compared with water alone, in the removal of bacteria and viruses (Ansari et al, 1989; Mbithi et al, 1993) suggest that, in most (but not all) cases, liquid soap-based formulations were more effective than water only. However, the authors concluded that the differences were not statistically significant. Ash Hoque and Briend (1991) indicated that the use of alternative rubbing agents (mud or ash) provided the same benefits as soap.Again, Hoque et al (1995) also found that the use of ash and soap all achieved the same level of cleanliness. Ash, however, is considered less pleasant on the hands compared with soap or soil (Hoque and Briend, 1991). Despite the positive lifesaving potential of handwashing with soap (ash), proper handwashing is not bei ng practiced regularly by children in schools and homes (WASH United, 2010). Citrus lime fruit Scientifically known as Citrus aurantifolia, there are two natural groups of the citrus lime fruit – acid (sour) limes, and acidless (sweet) limes.The ‘West Indian’ lime, also called Mexican and Key lime is round, small-fruited, moderately seedy and highly polyembryonic; it has a thin, smooth rind, greenish flesh and a citric acid content ranging from 7% to 8%. It is usually grown as a seedling, as no satisfactory rootstock is known, but in Ghana it is grown on Rough lemon stock (Samson, 1986). Soap A number of studies indicate that washing hands with soap is the critical component of the handwashing behaviour (Cairncross, 1993; Ghosh et al, 1997; Khan, 1982; Oo et al, 2000). Kartha (2001) noted that the most essential thing required to wash hands is soap.Again, studies have shown that hands can carry faeces to surfaces, to foods, and to future hosts, and handwashing wi th soap is effective in removing pathogens (Han et a. , 1986; Kaltenthaler et al, 1991; Ansari et al, 1991). Improvements in access to safe water and adequate sanitation, along with the promotion of good hygiene practices (particularly handwashing with soap), can help prevent diarrhoea (Black et al, 2003). PPPHW (2011) affirmed that promoted on a wide enough scale, handwashing with soap can be thought of as a ‘do- it-yourself’ vaccine. Choice of soapDebate has been ongoing about the best type of soap to be used in handwashing. A study by Aiello (2007) indicated that plain soaps are as effective as consumer-grade antibacterial soaps in preventing illness and removing bacteria from the hands. Mayo Clinic (2009) admonished people to keep in mind that antibacterial soap is no more effective at killing germs than is regular soap. Using antibacterial soap may even lead to the development of bacteria that are resistant to the products’ antimicrobial agents – maki ng it harder to kill these germs in the future.Commenting on favoured features for soap, women in Ghana cited a range of attributes – smell, cost, texture and durability, and its capacity to be used for multiple purposes. For the women, the most important attribute was the smell of the soap, andthe most popular scents were mild lime and lemon. Concerning cost, cheaper soaps were preferred, although women were sometimes willing to pay more if the soap was larger or they thought it would last longer. Commenting on texture / durability, associated with cost, women preferred harder bar soaps or liquid varieties as they thought they lasted longer.So strong was the preference for hard soaps that many stored soap in cool or sunny or airy places to harden them before use. Some women thought liquid soap more economical since only a peanut size was adequate for each hand wash. Many women preferred laundry bar soap because it could be used as a multipurpose soap such as for laundering, bathing and washing dishes at the same time (PPPHW, 2010). The act of handrubbing It has been suggested by Hoque et al, (1995) that the key component of the handwashing process is the mechanical rubbing of the hands.They noted that the trend towards better results from handwashing with both hands, increased frequency of rubbing and an increased volume of rinsing water all support the prime importance of scrubbing / frictional motion and consequent washing out of loose bacteria with water. Although results of studies carried out suggest that the use of a rubbing agent is important, the authors suggested that the nature of the rubbing agent is a less important factor. Soap, they indicated, was more effective than soil and ash because soap users tend to rub their hands more and use more water to rinse away the soapy feeling on them.CDC (2011) advised people to rub hands together vigorously to make a lather and to continue scrubbing for 20 seconds because it takes that long for the soap and scrubbing action to dislodge and remove stubborn germs. Beneficial effects of handwashing Handwashing has been regarded as a key infection-control practice since Semmelweis suggested its introduction in health care settings (Semmelweis, 1847 in Koo, 2008). The handwashing behaviour has been shown to cut the number of child deaths from diarrhoea (the second leading cause of child deaths) by almost half and from pneumonia (the leading cause of child deaths) by one-quarter (WHO, 2008).The strong causal relationship between hand hygiene and gastro-intestinal disease risk has also been demonstrated by meta-analysis of community based interventions. Curtis and Cairncross (2003) estimated a reduction of 42 – 47% in diarrhoeal diseases associated with handwashing. Fewtrell et al (2005) showed a 44% reduction in diarrhoeal illness associated with handwashing. In a study, Aiello et al (2008) estimated that handwashing with soap combined with education could produce a 39% reduction in gastrointestinal illness. All the three meta-analyses were carried out using data from studies conducted in both developed and developing countries.In a review of hand hygiene studies involving respiratory tract infections, Rabie and Curtis (2006) reported that hand hygiene (handwashing, education and waterless hand sanitizers) can reduce the risk of respiratory infections by 16%. Aiello et al. (2008) also estimated that the reduction in respiratory illness associated with the pooled effects of hand hygiene (handwashing with soap, use of alcohol handrubs) was 21%. A study conducted by Luby et al (2005) reported the impact of handwashing with soap on pneumonia in children under five, in squatter settlements in Karachi, Pakistan.The results indicated a 50% reduction in pneumonia in the intervention compared with the control group. Luby et al noted that a link between handwashingand the prevention of pneumonia in developing countries is plausible on the basis that, in developing co untries it is known that viruses cause pneumonia. Another study found that children under 15 years living in households that received handwashing promotion and soap had half the diarrhoeal rates of children living in control neighbourhoods (Luby et al, 2004).Because handwashing can prevent the transmission of a variety of pathogens, it may be more effective than any single vaccine. Handwashing can also prevent skin infections (eg. impetigo), eye infections (eg. conjunctivitis), intestinal worms, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), and Avian Flu. It benefits the health of people living with HIV/AIDS. Handwashing is effective in preventing the spread of disease even in overcrowded, highly contaminated slum environments (PPPHW, 2008).

Tragedy in Waco Texas

Many people in this world tend to belong to a religious group. People feel that religion is a way to fill an emptiness they may be feeling inside. It is a way to comfort those who may have lost loved ones knowing that they are now in a â€Å"better place† and we too will join them there once it is our time. However, some people belong to either a religious sect or cult. These groups are not considered meet the standards of what it means to be a religion or they simply do not have enough people following them. In the early 90s, many people had a narrow-minded vision of what exactly the Branch Davidians were in Waco Texas.Stuart A. Wright presented an unbiased opinion in his book Armageddon in Waco so everyone could question what really happened and whether or not the government was justified in their actions. There are several differences between a religion, a sect, and a cult. According to our notes worldly religions meet a certain criteria to be known mainstream. Each religio n has a long history of existence and ancient texts. The religion has many people who follow it and elites that adhere and accept it (i. e. Emperor Constantine).The religion is normalized an influential; no one questions the faith. Finally, there is a cultural/social integration of the religion; for example, when someone new is being initiated into the presidency they must swear on the Bible. Some major religions are Christianity containing 2. 1 billion followers, Islam containing 1. 5 billion followers, and Judaism containing 14 million followers (class slide show dated 11/18). A religious sect has similar qualities of a religion, but they feel they have made improvements to older established religious.According to our notes, sects are a branch of previously existing religions; the group uses old ancient texts (like the Bible or the Qur’an) and mix new interpretations of that text. An example of this would be the book of Mormon. These sects are not fully accepted in mainstre am society and are considered to be â€Å"weird† by major religions. The sect usually contained a small number of followers who have a disdain for mainstream religions. Elites are not usually members of religious sects, but rather choose to attack them claiming they are blasphemers. Finally, many sects started to reform a much larger church.Some examples of religious sects would be the Mormons, Jehovah’s Witnesses, and Scientologists (class slide show dated 11/18). Although, I would argue that Scientology has more cult like qualities than sect like qualities; it is only labeled a sect because its members are people like Tom Cruise and John Travolta. A group that is considered a cult usually does not have many members all of which are not dependent on orthodox religious beliefs. According to our notes, cults usually have many different ideas, a lot of which are about the end of the world.These groups are often hostile, but at the same time provide members with everythin g the group needs. Outsiders often view these groups as threats; this is why they are labeled a cult. Cults have deviant beliefs about sex, drug use, and other acceptable behavior (class slide show dated 11/18). Myths are also associated with cults and the media plays on these myths to present these cults as a threat to society. According to our notes from the slideshow, some cult myths are that members are brainwashed, they are sexual deviants, there is abuse among members, and there are strange acts like sacrificing animals etc.An example of a cult would be Jim Jones and the People’s Temple mass suicide. Jim Jones managed to create one of the largest mass suicides in history convincing 900 people to kill themselves by drinking poisonous Kool-Aid. In my opinion, the Branch Davidians in Waco Texas could be classified as a sect with cult-like characteristics. According to the documentary, â€Å"The Final Report: Waco Tragedy,† the Branch Davidian group is a branch of th e Seven Day Adventist Church. Their leader, David Koresh, taught his follows of many end time prophecies.Koresh was following the teachings of the founding Davidian named Victor Tasho Houteff. According to Stuart A. Wright, who edited the book Armageddon in Waco, â€Å"Houteff interpreted the Bible in terms of prophecy fulfillment†¦he reconstructed a history on the basis of mysterious and arcane passages recorded in Daniel, and interpreted signs in current events which suggested fulfillment of end times† (pg. 23). Many myths circling cults are about end times and the end of the world itself. Since that is the basis of the Branch Davidian group it is obvious why they were view as â€Å"different† or â€Å"crazy† when thinking the world will end.During the early 1990’s, the Davidians were a very closed off group living in their compound called Mt. Carmel; this played right into cult like myths presented by the media. It brought about questions like â⠂¬Å"What are they doing it there? † or â€Å"Why is everything secretive? It must be illegal. † It didn’t help that the Davidians had their own money system and educational system in order to design the culture for future generations (Wright pg. 27). According to the documentary â€Å"Waco: Rules of Engagement,† David Koresh had several children with various different â€Å"wives. All of said â€Å"wives† were in actuality the legal wives of his followers. This played right into another cult myth; the myth that the Branch Davidians had deviant beliefs toward sex. Although the Davidians have many cult-like myths circling them, the fact remains they are just myths not proof. The group did not meet any other of the criteria for being considered a cult. It was obvious that the government wanted to pose this little branch of the Seven Day Adventist Church as a threat because they did not meet social norms.Cults are said to be their own group entirely wi th new thoughts, beliefs, and ideas. The Branch Davidians share the beliefs of the Seven Day Adventists since that is the religion they stem from. This makes the groups more of a sect with some cult-like characteristics. David Koresh was also look upon as a threat because he was housing illegal firearms. According to the documentary â€Å"Waco: The Rules of Engagement,† Koresh was presented to the people as an insane cult leader who was in possession of illegal weapons.The media, BTAF, and FBI construed people into believing Koresh would use these weapons on people thus making Koresh a threat to the public. The ATF warrants against Koresh accused him of holding these illegal weapons as well as sexually abusing children (which still cannot be proven). To make the Waco group more of a threat to the public the media, former Davidians, and the government all make certain claims about the group and play into people’s fears. â€Å"Claims-making is more effective if the part icular issues target problems that reflect pre-existing or widespread social fears and apprehensions† (Wright 79).Claims making allows a small window for what they consider to be outside of the social norm; in other words you can be â€Å"weird,† but not â€Å"too weird. † The media presented David Koresh with the nickname â€Å"The Sinful Messiah. † The name itself sends out an alert in people’s minds; anyone who hears this derogatory name is now well aware this man must be a â€Å"weirdo. † On March 3, 1993, Mark England and Darlene McCormick released an article in the Waco Tribune-Herald Series called â€Å"The Sinful Messiah,† calling David Koresh by his birth name (Vernon Howell) and spreading rumors about various things he was accused of in the Mt.Carmel compound. England and McCormick claim they have interviewed several former Davidian members who said Koresh was guilty of abusing children physically and psychologically, having sex with underage girls, and had at least 15 â€Å"wives. † England and McCormick also make claims that Koresh (or Howell as they refer to him) fathered many children from his various â€Å"wives† while living in the compound. It says in the article, â€Å"County records show no birth certificates for many children whom former cult members said have been born to Branch Davidian women since the late 1980's.A former cult member once registered as a midwife in McLennan County said she delivered twin girls in 1991 to a young Branch Davidian woman living at Mount Carmel. The midwife said Howell ordered her not to register the babies with local officials, a violation of state law. † The problem with these accusations however, is that they are all from â€Å"anonymous† sources. It is almost like reading a tabloid magazine. If a tabloid is trying to make it seem like two people in Hollywood are dating they will write in the article quotes from these â€Å"anonym ous† sources that are proven false majority of the time.When I read this article I had the same feeling as if I were reading a bogus article in Star Magazine. I also feel the way England and McCormick refused to call him David Koresh seemed derogatory. The fact that the writers purposely called him Vernon Howell gave the article an air of sarcasm. It was as if they were saying, â€Å"Look at this crazy guy who thinks he’s the messiah; his name is Vernon Howell. † However, the article fails to mention Vernon Howell did in fact change his name legally to David Koresh. I do not think by any means that David Koresh was the messiah, but I think it was wrong to mock the fact that he changed his name.The media wanted to present him as some crazy man from Texas; the writers were clearly mocking him and wanted to let the public know it was allowed and encouraged to look at David Koresh as if he were insane. The only real source in the article seemed to be from a girl by t he name of Kiri Jewell. Kiri’s father and mother were divorced and had joint custody of her. However, her father rarely saw her when Kiri and her mother went to live in the compound. However, the child abuse thing was blown completely out of proportion.After the massacre occurred and the hearings were going on in congress in 1995, Kiri Jewell testified against David Koresh claiming he sexually abused her. According to footage shown in the documentary â€Å"Waco: Rules of Engagement,† Kiri went on record saying that when she was just 10 years old she was sexually assaulted by Koresh. However, Kiri Jewell is not a reliable source as well. In the documentary, after Kiri makes her statement, the Davidians defense attorneys show that Jewell has made several contradictory statements in the past. The documentary then flashes to an interview with the Sherriff of Waco.He explains that they are yet to charge Koresh of any form of abuse, but if there was anything like that going on with girls that were at least fourteen and had parental consent then it is not illegal. It may be morally wrong to outsiders looking in, but to them it was perfectly natural and acceptable (not saying I agree with that, but I’m not a Branch Davidian). However, I do think the media took one girl’s accusations and made a mountain out of a molehill. They knew people would respond poorly after hearing any form of abuse toward children, thus justifying the military actions towards the Waco group.In class we watched two documentaries; one was titled â€Å"The Final Report: Tragedy at Waco† the other titled â€Å"Waco: Rules of Engagement. † Both documentaries gave viewers extremely different feelings toward them same event in Waco, Texas. When watching â€Å"The Final Report: Tragedy at Waco,† the producers of the documentary purposely make the Branch Davidian group seem alien and obviously cannot be trusted since they were so closed off from everyone else. The documentary starts off by asking a series of questions like â€Å"Who are the Branch Davidians? and â€Å"Who is David Koresh? † There is music playing in the background almost comparable to that someone would hear in a horror movie. It is clear from the start the purpose of this documentary is to make the Branch Davidians seem like a menacing crazy cult from the Boondocks of Texas. This documentary also only seemed to present one side of the story. The made it seem like it was the most obvious thing in the world that the Davidians wanted to kill themselves in a mass suicide and therefore, when under attack by the FBI, started a fire.This documentary was shorter and did not present a fair amount of details from both sides of the story. This documentary even has the world â€Å"tragedy† in the title; right away people will play into the idea that the fire was just another mass suicide by some insane religious â€Å"cult† in the middle of no where Texa s. It played right into what the media stereotyped the group to look like. The second documentary we watched was titled â€Å"Waco: Rules of Engagement. † In my opinion this documentary was much more fair and presented both sides as best as it could.This documentary was done with a more unbiased eye, unlike the first one. However, this documentary did do a successful job of making the FBI look like screw-ups and this whole thing was just a big government cover-up. Maybe it just showed the incident at Mount Carmel for exactly what it was. Technically in the documentary the FBI did a good job of making themselves look like screw-ups because the documentary simply showed footage of thing various agents said. On some level this documentary did manipulate viewers; for example when they showed the dead bodies that were burned it gave the Davidians a sympathy vote.However, this documentary did not alter anything, but rather presented it as it was. I felt it allowed the people to get a clearer look at what happen and maybe see the media altered people’s perception of what really happened. It is difficult to say who started the fire. In my opinion this whole raid was a complete screw up. In the book Armageddon in Waco it says, â€Å"The BATF raid was a monumental failure. Subsequently, the April 19, 1993, FBI CS gas assault on the compound and the ensuing fire (whatever its cause) fulfilled only one stated objective—that of suppressing an armed group.The children who were to be saved from abuse died instead† (Wright pg. 229). There is no accurate cause of what started the fire. However, according to the documentary â€Å"Waco: Rules of Engagement† I have reason to believe it was started by accident from the FBI tanks. After the FBI released the gas that was supposed to be harmless and â€Å"nonflammable† into the compound it was shown by the person who invented infrared cameras and readings that several shots were fired from FB I tanks even though they went on record saying no shots were fired that day.During the trials they tried to present it like those flashes were light being reflected, however, these cameras only pick up heat so it would be virtually impossible to pick up a reflection; needless to say Congress and everyone in the courtroom were obviously stunned. In my own personal opinion I feel the shots from the FBI tanks mixed with the gas released into the compound were the cause of the fire. After seeing interviews with various Branch Davidian members who died on that day it was obvious they had no intention of this mass suicide.It doesn’t even coincide with their beliefs; they believed that there would be a final battle, which they would come out victorious. Although on some levels this was a battle I do not believe they would have given up and killed themselves. If there who belief system was based on this battle wouldn’t they fight back? When the fire started it looked like seve ral explosions were going off. That could only have occurred when the shots mixed with the gas that was spread throughout the building. The FBI did not want to admit they messed up big time so they formed an alliance with the media presenting a completely different story.If someone were to see a headline about the Branch Davidians they would see words like â€Å"cult† and â€Å"mass suicide. † The media presented the story as if the group started the fire themselves. Media groups claimed to have phone conversations indicating they had planned these actions; however, the phone conversations so no indication that the Branch Davidians had any intention of starting a fire to kill all its members. Most people even tried to escape the compound when it was in flames. If a mass suicide were really the planned course of action why would people be trying to escape?Although the media presents that the fire was entirely the Branch Davidians’ fault, other evidence can prove otherwise. We discussed in class that this incident at Waco was indirectly to the Oklahoma City bombing. Timothy McVeigh felt it would send a clear message to attack the groups involved in the trials of the Branch Davidians because of their greatest mistake and cover-up. McVeigh was so angered by this government cover up that he felt he should bomb the federal buildings where people like FBI and ATF agents worked.He realized after it was wrong to kill innocent people and said he should have only gone after those involved in the incident at Waco. Although very different, religions, sects, cults have lots in common. They each have a group of lost souls who are looking beyond this life in hopes of a better afterlife. The Davidian’s beliefs may have been questionable, but it is what they believed. This is America where in our first amendment we have freedom of religion. The Davidians were nice people and did not deserve they fate they were delt.