Creating a Group in Society

Group Population Students at risk are those vulnerable to expulsion owing to their weak academic performance. In the recent past, scholars have been engaging in constant research to establish some of the factors that predispose students to poor academic performance, which dispose them to risks of being expelled from school.Advertising We will write a custom proposal sample on Creating a Group in Society specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More It is established that some conditions expose new college students from high school to poor results, making college life more difficult. Some of these factors are related to the school environment while others are directly associated with the peer group. The peer group influences the performance of an individual even in their social life. Peer pressure may force a student to engage in activities that are parallel to the academic standards. These factors cause a major drop in grades while in extreme cases, student’s think of dropping out of school. For the group that I intend to work with, the major problem is to help them avoid academic probation and possible expulsion from college due to ongoing poor academic performance. York College City University of New York administration puts SEEK (Search for Education, Elevation, and Knowledge) students whose grade point average is below a 2.4 on academic probation. Therefore, the main challenge is to ensure that students achieve the desired grade point average of 2.5 or above. Since students are disinterested in attending the mandated workshops, I intend to come up with strategies that would help in encouraging the students to join The SEEK Academic Challenge for Excellence (ACE) group. The group will be aiming at recruiting freshmen, sophomores, and juniors who are in the SEEK Program, and their performance is not satisfactory. The main challenge for these students is that they are first-generation college students. They have little skills as regards to academic life in college (Oldfield, 2012). I chose to form a group that would benefit students academically because students attain low grades not because they are mentally weak, but because of some factors that predispose them to poor performance. Some of the issues that the group seeks to address include time management, study skills, encouragement/empowerment, recognizing strengths, and goals.Advertising Looking for proposal on social sciences? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The school environment has a role to play as far as improvement of grades is concerned. Lecturers should come up with advanced or refined instructional plans in case they realize that some students need special attention (Yalom, Leszcz, 2005). In a class set up, not all students are in a position to comprehend the course material at the same pace. It is upon the school administration to ensure that the lesson plans cater to the needs of all students, including the disabled and the vulnerable. Tutors should understand the problems facing students and come up with adequate measures to resolve the problems. This would be another area of focus since the group will come up with ways through which instructional plans and pedagogical strategies would be adjusted. Benefits of Using Group Approach In modern society, issues affecting individuals are resolved inside groups mainly because of the efficiency and effectiveness of the group. People organize meetings and informal discussions whereby they express their views and ideas in an attempt to resolve the issue at hand. In the group that I am just to form, members share similar problems because they are all at risk of being sent to academic probation owing to poor performance. Their main concern is to improve their academic grades to prevent being put on probation. If utilized fully, groups can address the issues affecting the population. In this case, groups s hould be used in the right place and at the right time. It should be noted that groups are not always successful in all scenarios. Groups are only used under special circumstances. In this regard, some factors must be considered before deciding whether to use group intervention. For instance, the social worker must consider whether the issue that affects students could be explained in various ways. In the case given, the issue can be defined variously meaning that the group approach would be applied successfully (Weisman, 2000).Advertising We will write a custom proposal sample on Creating a Group in Society specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Moreover, the issue at hand needs information from various sources because a single problem does not cause the underperformance of students. Since information is to be sourced from various places, group approach is the perfect model. The problem under scrutiny is a special problem implying tha t the services of an expert would not be enough to explain it. Indeed, the expert could be biased because he or she may have a narrower understanding, which means the solutions reached would be restricted. Finally, the group approach would be productive for students because the problem affects all of them. Some of the benefits of group approach include greater output and cross-fertilization. Students will give various opinions on how to improve academically. Each student has his or her own experiences, views, values, and knowledge regarding the problem. Therefore, the contribution of many students would be necessary to understand the problem from various viewpoints. Cross-fertilization means that the views of another person could be used to generate an idea. In other words, it would give members an opportunity to brainstorm ideas. Another benefit is that the group approach does not have biases as compared to an expert approach. In case biases come about, Swifach and Heft-LaPorte (20 07) observed that the group could easily counter them. The pressure of the group forces an individual to embrace change. In a group setting, members are willing to take risks as compared to an expert or other approaches. Members are more realistic in a group approach because they are aware that their ideas would be assessed and would be analyzed so carefully. The group approach is beneficial because members are highly committed to the exercise as compared to the expert approach whereby an individual believes the expert has a solution to his or her problem.Advertising Looking for proposal on social sciences? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Since members would be suffering from similar problems, they would be willing to communicate freely as compared to an expert approach whereby an individual would be reluctant to give all details in fear of retribution. Finally, the group approach facilitates the designing of better solutions. Preferred Type of Group Approach The type of social group to be established is secondary because the emotional ties between students are very weak. Students would be forming the group to address the main problem, which is avoiding academic probation and improving academic performance. However, the approach would take social identification approach (Social Goals Model) as compared to social cohesion approach. The group would not be defined based on expressions, but instead, the definition would be based on perceptual or cognitive processes. Under the model, it is assumed that students would be keen to act or work together generally because of the existence of a regular type of membership. A grou p, in this case, would have conceptualized some of the values that would act as a guiding principle towards the attainment of common goals and values. The group would be aiming at improving its performance other than strengthening emotional ties. In other words, a group member would be aiming at answering the question ‘who am I’ instead of ‘who am I attracted to.’ The main purpose of the group would be to cultivate necessary skills that would help members to develop academically (Cohen, Doel, Quirke, Ring, Ruwaida, 2012). The above approach is derived from the social identity theory, which states that an individual’s self-concept is obtained from the supposed membership in an appropriate social group. The theory explains the behavior of individuals in intergroup behavior. The group to be formed would be an intergroup because members would be drawn from various groups. The students were faced with expulsion could be members of other groups, which mig ht even be primary groups that social cohesion approach would be used to understand them. The theory explains the differences that could emerge within the group owing to the differences in status. The theory posits that the in-group member would pursue a goal that fulfills his or her interest instead of the interests of the whole group. In this regard, the individual may decide to be a member of an intergroup mainly to fulfill his or her interests. In the group that I intend to form, members would be drawn from various social classes and categories from freshmen to juniors because underperformance is not restricted to class or category. A member from any in-group, irrespective of gender, class, and status, would join freely. Challenges Associated with Group Intervention Leading a group is one of the most challenging tasks that a social worker can come across. This is mainly because members of the group come from different backgrounds, with varying values, beliefs, experiences, and p rinciples. The main role of the social worker is to ensure that the group comes together to accomplish the main task. For this kind of group, finding a common ground that would enable each student to express his or her ideas freely is a major problem. Students come from different backgrounds meaning that the causes of their academic underperformance are not similar. Therefore, the social worker should come up with a common strategy aiming at improving the performance of the student, irrespective of the ethnic or racial background. This would demand that each student compromises to suit into the common strategy (Birnbaum, Cicchetti, 2005). It is established that challenges would vary from motivating students, encouraging them to pursue the common goals, and ensuring that they are managed well. These are serious challenges that may overpower the social worker if adequate strategies are not adopted.   Students should be encouraged to work together to achieve the main goal. Without m otivation, it would be difficult to achieve the desired results because students would even be reluctant to attend the meetings and discussions. The group would not go far in case members lack interest.   Only interested members would be willing to pursue a common goal. The social worker must work so closely with students to achieve the desired results. The social worker should first ensure that students are satisfied in the group by providing an enabling environment.  For the agency context (the school), the students should be given learning strategies that are consistent with the provisions of the school rules and regulations. Motivation should be conducted in a way that would be beneficial to the school. Members of the group should be encouraged to liaise with their professors and other school administrators whenever they have an issue that threatens their academic life. The school administration has a critical role to play as far as the academic improvement of students is co ncerned. A solution cannot be reached without involving the school administration in discussions. The teaching staff should be consulted to give their views on the possible direction that the social worker should take to ensure that students improve. Lecturers know their students because they interact with them weekly. Regarding the community, the specific unit to be involved in the formulation of policies is the peer group. The peer group should be made to understand that supporting each other is the only way that would help them in achieving success. Some peer groups rarely support each other, yet they expect strong results in their academic performance. The student needs to be motivated by all stakeholders, including the peer group and the school. For the clients, the challenges related to motivation and encouragement is better resolved by providing role models. The challenges are better addressed through encouraging communication among key stakeholders, as well as motivating mem bers to take action whenever they feel that something is wrong. Eight Headings The social context in this sense represents the environment in which the interactions between group members would take place. The social environment has a significant impact on the behavior of members because it shapes their aspirations and objectives. One of the social contexts in my group is the mission of the institution. The main mission of the college is to achieve academic excellence by eliminating poor performance. The school shapes the behavior of students because it makes them work harder. Another social factor to be considered is the attitude of the school towards the group. The attitude of the school is already negative since it perceives that these students are academically challenged who should be sent home or they need to join other institutions. One role of the social worker is to change the attitude of the school (Berger, 2009). The school needs to develop a positive attitude towards the g roup. One other factor to consider is the specific needs of students meaning that each student’s aspirations and objectives should be put into consideration when forming the ACE group. Client Needs This refers to the problems, issues, wants, and major concerns of group members. In this case, the needs of the group to be formed include emotional support and academic skills that would help them achieve high grades in various subjects. It should be noted that both individual and group needs must be evaluated carefully before coming up with some of the strategies to mitigate the problems. The role of the worker would be to identify the needs of students, the current strategies being applied to resolve the problems, and establish effective strategies to enable students to improve academically. It is suggested that the needs of the client should always be prioritized, as opposed to individual aspirations (Berger, 2009)). The group is under a serious threat of being disbanded from t he school; hence all efforts should be towards preventing probation. Group Purpose The purpose refers to the specific and general objectives of the group. Without the purpose, the group would not do not have a specific agenda. The group would be put up specifically to improve academic performance. However, other general objectives such as strengthening each other emotionally and talking about other issues that affect youths in modern society, including social relationships would be of the essence. It is factual that many young adults in the institutions of higher learning are faced with numerous problems, which leads to poor performance. Therefore, it is the role of the social worker to establish some of these problems and incorporate them into the main objectives of the group (Berger, 2009). The social worker will work hard to ensure that personal differences do not affect the group. In other words, the social worker will come up with a collective objective for all members. Group C omposition Apart from establishing the major purpose for the group, the social worker has a role of ensuring that the group is accepted both socially and legally by keeping in mind the required composition of the group. The group should include both genders for it to be accepted. When forming the group, I will ensure that the number is reasonable meaning that it is manageable. A group with an extensive membership is sometimes difficult to control meaning that it would be difficult for it to achieve some of the missions. I will also ensure that ethnicity and issues related to race are taken into consideration since forming a group consisting only one race or ethnic group would be unlawful. As earlier noted, the group will be an open group because it would be disbanded after the accomplishment of the major objective. Those targeted are students at risk who are between 18-25 years. However, only those students with perceived similar goals and objectives would be encouraged to join the group. Group Structure The structures of the group entail the organization of members into units for management purposes. The group would have a specified time limit whereby it would be in place until the time when each student will attain the required grade to prevent him or her from being subjected to probation. Moreover, the group will decide on the number of times that it will be meeting each week. This is upon the realization that the performance of students can only improve if they frequently meet to share their achievements and some of the challenges that might arise as they continue with their program. In terms of the sitting arrangement, the group will adopt the classroom setting whereby the social worker will be acting as a teacher, and the students will express their issue of concern one after the other. In other words, the sessions will be very interactive. Group Content The content refers to some of the materials that the social worker will employ in ensuring that stude nts receive the best service. The group will utilize discussions on the importance of attendance and share other critical information on academics. At times worker will provide handouts on time/stress management, study skills, and information on how to be successful in college. Students are welcome to share other problems that may be affecting their academic success. Formation Strategy Formation strategy refers to the process of recruiting members to the group. In this regard, members will be allowed to join the group without necessarily subscribing. However, a critical assessment will be conducted to establish whether the interested individual is affected by academically. The main aim of the group is to improve the performance of students meaning that only those with grade point averages below a 2.5 and considered â€Å"At Risk† would be encouraged to join. The worker will reach out to students through flyers, emails, and phone calls. The worker will arrange an appointment t o meet with students individually and have them fill out a questionnaire that asks open-ended questions. Based on the data from the questionnaire, the worker will conduct her discussions. Questionnaires are anonymous. However, they are required to identify their category as a freshman, sophomore, junior or senior. Evaluation strategy For any group to prosper, a thorough evaluation should be conducted. This entails analyzing the performance of the group to ensure that the goals and the set objectives are achieved within the stipulated time. In case it is found out that the group is performing as initially intended, the strategies are adjusted to ensure that desired results are achieved. The group can as well be disbanded if the main objective is not being achieved. The evaluation takes place before, during, and after the program. The worker will evaluate the student’s progress by reviewing their grades at the end of the semester. Readings I utilized three materials to understa nd the process of group formation in social work. The book by Yalom and Leszcz gave some of the basic skills needed in establishing a strong group, which would indeed achieve its objectives. One of the three readings was a book while the other was a peer-reviewed journal article. The book by Yalom and Leszcz gave the theoretical basis while the journal served as an example in forming the group. Theoretically, the formation of a group entails the understanding of the dynamics of various forms of groups such as primary and secondary groups. Each form of a group has a general purpose, which is always similar in all categories of social groups. However, it is the role of the social worker to ensure that the group attains the desired goals at the right time and within the stipulated time. I realized that my group would be a secondary type because students do not know each other emotionally. They come from various social backgrounds, but they have to work together to achieve their academi c dreams. The article by Marsiglia, Pena, Nieri, and Nagoshi (2010) gave me the real steps that are to be followed in establishing a group. The article by Weisman (2000) was also of value because it talks about the programs that are always utilized in the field of social work. The scholar gives some of the social work curriculums in social work, which include group intervention strategies. First Meeting In the first meeting with the members of the group, the main agenda would be to introduce myself to the members. The members will also introduce themselves, as well as their academic problems. This comes upon the realization that students underperform because of various problems. Some students do not engage in private studies while others have problems concentrating in class. Others lack encouragement because of peer issues and issues related to socialization (Bergel, Clements, 2010). Understanding the issues affecting each student would be critical in designing intervention strateg ies. In the first session, students will be encouraged to give their views without the fear of intimidation. They will be informed that their problems will only be resolved if they describe them in detail. As earlier noted, the first session will be interactive whereby each person is given a considerable time to express him or herself in detail. The social worker will play the role of the moderator whereby all views will be recorded, and further clarifications will be sought from students. The main goal in the first session would be to understand the real problems affecting the students, which lead to underperformance in class. It should be understood that underperformance is attributed to several factors. Others perform poorly because they lack support, while others have serious time management and study skills issues. Three Major Critical Skills The three major critical skills include storming, forming, and adjourning. These three skills have been proved to work effectively in the formation of groups, especially in the first stages. Forming stage refers to directing the group and ascertaining objectives in a clear manner. This would be executed through the establishment of the group charter whereby each member would be given his or her role. Storming is another critical skill that is very important in the formation of the group. It includes establishing a process and the structure through which membership would be based. The social worker would remain firm and straight to control the behavior of members. At this stage, conflicts would emerge because some members may give views that are not in line with the group’s interests. As a leader, I will be ready to handle the conflicts through the application of conflict resolution strategies, such as negotiation (Marsiglia, Pena, Nieri, Nagoshi, 2010). The third critical skill is adjourning whereby each member will be informed of the next meeting and what to expect before closing the meeting. The meeting wil l not be closed unless each member has contributed by giving his or her view. The Challenge The challenge that is expected is bringing together various members belonging to different classes, ethnicities, and races. This is a challenge because members from a certain ethnic group or social class would be unwilling to cooperate with other members perceived to be from an inferior group. At this stage, the social worker will make all members understand that all human beings are equal, irrespective of their skin color, social status, and ethnic groupings. The group is expected to achieve its objectives in the shortest time possible. Time is of the essence in this group since students are in the risk of being put under academic probation. References Bergel, B., D Clements, J. (2010). Supporting ourselves: Group work interventions for compassion fatigue. Group work, 20(2), 7-23. Berger, R. (2009). Encounter of a racially mixed group with stressful situations. Group work, 19(3), 57-76. Bir nbaum, M.L., Cicchetti, A. (2005). A model for working with the group life cycle in each group session across the life span of the group. Group work, 15(3), 23-43. Cohen, C.S., Doel, M., Quirke, D., Ring, K.A., Ruwaida, S. (2012). Global group work: Honoring processes and outcomes. Group work, 22(1), 78-98. Marsiglia, F.F., Pena, V., Nieri, T., Nagoshi, J.L. (2010). Real groups: The design and immediate effects of a prevention intervention for Latino children. Social Work with Group, 33(3), 103-121. Oldfield, K. (2012). Still humble and hopeful: Two more recommendations on welcoming first-generation poor and working-class students to college. About Campus, 17(5), 2-13. Swifach, J., Heft-LaPorte, H. (2007). A model for group work practice with Ultra-Orthodox Jewish victims of domestic violence: A qualitative study. Social Work with Groups, 30(3), 29-45. Weisman, C. (2000). Reminiscence: group work principles withstanding time-from the settlement house to the United Nations. Socia l Work with Groups, 23(3), 5-19. Yalom, I. D., Leszcz, M. (2005). The theory and practice of group psychotherapy (5th ed.). New York: Basic Books. This proposal on Creating a Group in Society was written and submitted by user Giada Prince to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Free sample - The Wal-Mart Organization. translation missing

The Wal-Mart Organization. The Wal-Mart OrganizationTraining evaluation and its effectiveness There are many types of training evaluation used but the Wal-Mart Organization adopted the input evaluation method because it was relevant to the organization. Input evaluation is used to assess all the elements associated with the training based on the selection of trainers, trainees, materials, venue, curriculum plan, and the cost (Tessaring Descy, 2004). The training evaluation method is effective because it met all what I expected from the training. The training was helpful because I learnt many new things, which will assist me, improve on my performance in the organization. According to the participant’s views and comments after the training, they were satisfied that the training was helpful. Most of them recommended that such training sessions should be organized regularly to equip them with new skills and knowledge (Tessaring Descy, 2004). The effectiveness of the training evaluation would be determined by the on how the participants answer the question and how they will conduct themselves at the work place. Evaluation design Evaluation design is a conceptual framework or a logical model that is used to come up with a conclusion (Tessaring Descy, 2004). The following the evaluation design I adopted. Who are the primary audience? The primary audience in this case is the employees of the Wal-Mart Organization. What is the primary purpose? The main aim or the purpose is to train them on how evaluation is done and its importance to them and to the organization in general. What is the best method of collecting information? Using questionnaires was the most appropriate method because it will be detailed and the respondents will be free to provide the required information in accordance to the questions asked and the information needed. How will the information be analyzed? The information will be analyzed based on the questions and information in the questionnaires. For example, graphs may be used if it contains a lot of figures and a summary if it contains only some comments and explanations (Tessaring Descy, 2004). How will the information be reported? It can be in form of a written report or a presentation is done to the employees if there is enough time and all employees will be available during presentation. Since I will the one reporting the findings, I would prefer to do a presentation so that all employees can participate fully and ask questions for further clarification (Tessaring Descy, 2004). It is important for an organization to have a clear evaluation design because this is the only way of providing a solution to the problems affecting the organization and the employees as well. Lack of clear understanding by the employees of what evaluation is, may lead to problems when the results are out on an individual employee on his or her performance (Tessaring Descy, 2004). The hypothetical evaluation To that, the evaluation was effective; the audience who are the employees of Wal-Mart Organization had a session of debriefing, warm up, presentation and the time to cover the presentation materials (Tessaring Descy, 2004). I found time to ask the employees and all those who attended the training on what they gained from the whole session. The employee’s perspective towards the organization changed for the good because of how the employees conducted themselves at the work place. All the sessions were fully utilized by trainees because it was evidenced even when they were on break, there were discussions, and posing many questions on various issues (Tessaring Descy, 2004). From the period allocated for each activity, many issues were discussed. Though it has not been practically proved, I believe that, employees will apply what they learnt in the training session at the organization. Reference: Tessaring, M. and Descy, P. (2004). The foundations of evaluation and impact research: third  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   report on vocational training research in Europe: background report. Luxembourg:  Ã‚   Office for Official Publications of the European Communities.

Teaching, Reading and Writing for Students Who are Deaf and Hard of Case Study

Teaching, Reading and Writing for Students Who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) - Case Study Example According to Cornish (2011, p.20), high numbers of children in remote areas develop hearing loss, with some having no eardrums. It is however certain that children with hearing loss perform poorly academically. The basics of learning in kindergarten involve repeating what the teacher has said, however, for DHH students, this mission is close to impossible. The author adds that these children have a high chance of dropping out in school as they feel stupid, therefore developing behavioral problems, and hence at risk of being arrested or imprisoned. Nevertheless, there exist several forms of languages and communication used by deaf or hard hearing students. Forms of Communication Used by Instructors and DHH Students Teaching, Reading and Writing fluency American Sign Language (ASL) is a widely used language among the deaf in United States of America and in Canada; this sign language relies mostly on English. ASL is regarded as the first language for the deaf or hard of hearing students ; whereby, these students are expected to acquire this sign language first. It is a visual English language that has no written components, and involves symbolic terms; therefore, students must be capable of translating texts into an understandable format (White, 2011, p.21). It is considered an easier first language since it is mostly used at an early age for those born with DHH. Manually Encoded English is another communication system used by those with DHH; this system represents words in English sentences by signs from the American Sign Language. Cued speech use mouth movement to differentiate the sounds of the spoken language from one another, with an aim... This paper stresses that DHH students experience social difficulties especially around their hearing peers, however, when these two groups of students participated in similar activities, the level of interaction increased. Family involvement in DHH student’s social lives can influence the social outcomes, since parents act like coaches for their children. Therefore, they are able to discuss challenging issues that are facing their children, thus encouraging them to developing social interactions with their peers. This report makes a conclusion that there is limited research on oral reading fluency of DHH students; nevertheless, measures to improve reading skills for these particular students should be implemented. This research proves that DHH students continue to drag behind compared to their hearing peers academically. However, with the involvement of parents, DHH students are able to achieve confidence. Therefore, parents of such students should take the first step towards learning sign language in order to be effective in communication, hence capable of motivating their children. DHH students are affected by the challenge of achievements academically; however, graphic novels among other learning approaches have proved to be efficient in communicating to DHH students. Students who are deaf or hard of hearing may encounter challenging issues that they cannot address because of the nature of their disability.

Apple Unveils Its Offline Strategy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Apple Unveils Its Offline Strategy - Essay Example As losses mounted Jobs was brought back as the CEO who realized that licensing Mac operating system had contracted the market by taking away the customers (Bryson et al., 2006). The strategy was changed immediately and Apple began to sell directly by phone and internet. This strategy did bring about better sales but the market was saturated and there were miscalculations on the consumer demand. Since they were performing poorly and the sales were shrinking as competition had set in, the company changed their strategy and business objectives. Having performed poorly in the traditional computer market they decided to integrate the product development strategies with the digital technologies in the consumer electronics market. Their strategy was to innovate. Based on the new direction provided under the new CEO, the company was steering towards growth and it was subsequently ranked number one as Fortune’s most admired company for innovation. Apple was no more seen â€Å"in a battle for PC market share -- instead, as the platform becoming a premium PC, capturing selective demand† (Bryson et al., 2006). The objective of the company was to position Apple products as an integrating platform for a range of household products like cameras, vide o recorders, and music players. Apple’s strategic business units now include personal computers, software, iTunes, QuickTime, iMac, and support as per the chart below: With the changed strategy, the company was operating in an environment that provided several opportunities but competition and its own damaged reputation posed threat to its existence. Nevertheless, the strengths of the company saw it through the threats. The main strengths of the company were the vision of the CEO, Steve Jobs, the iPod, and the brand loyalty.  

The Age of Innocence Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

The Age of Innocence - Essay Example He applies the brakes at the last minute. Among the early indications given that Archer may just defy social conventions and give in to the dictates of his heart are the kind of thoughts that run through his mind in New York as he prepares for the meeting with Ellen Olenska in Paris. This is a pivotal scene in the story, which puts Archer on a crossroad: Should he continue to live according to the strict moral code of his society, alone and unloved? Or will he dare these social tenets and be united and happy with his one true love, never mind if the tongue of society which looks down on Ellen as â€Å"different† keep wagging? Anyway, they could live in Paris if the situation calls for it. Part of Archer’s heart says the latter is the better option, since the thoughts of Ellen has persistently troubled him for most of the past 30 years and prevented him from forming liaison with any other women since his wife May died. The conditions now seem right for this decision, too. Archer’s son Dallas, who brings him to Paris for the meeting with Ellen, encourages his father to do it. Dallas confesses that before his mother May died, she told him how she knew that Archer married her with a broken heart and suggested that Dallas help his father reunite with Ellen when she is gone. This revelation only makes a renewed relationship with Ellen more attractive because Archer knows then that in so doing he would not be violating the memory of his wife May. In short, everything is set for Archer and Ellen to end up in each other’s arms. When at last Archer is in Paris about to meet Ellen, he is thus described as feeling â€Å"his heart beating with the confusion and eagerness of youth.† Meanwhile, Ellen herself is shown to be receptive to the love-is-lovelier-the-second-time-around idea as she waits â€Å"a few streets away, a few hours away,† thinking: â€Å"There was nothing now to keep her and her Archer

The Emirate Airlines And Its Products Tourism Essay

The Emirate Airlines And Its Products Tourism Essay The Emirate Airlines and Its Products Emirate Airlines is the largest airlines in the Middle Eastern region and has been operating over 2,500 flights in a week. It has been operating for 122 cities and over 74 countries in all the six continents. The company has been operating four longest non-stop commercial flights of the top 10 flights. It has also been operating cargo activities for the emirates group under the name of Emirates sky cargo division. The airlines has been a subsidiary of the emirates group which is wholly an organization owned by the government of Dubai having over 50,000 employees and controlled directly by the investment corporation of Dubai. Gulf Air started to decrease their services in Dubai during the mid-80s and resulted in the emergence of the Emirate airlines. It was conceived in the year of 1985 in March and has been financed by the royal family of Dubai. The Dubai Royal Air Wing of the Dubai Royal Family provided two aircraft to the airlines as their first aircrafts. The government provided an initial start-up capital of $10 million and the airlines was to operate independent of government subsidies. The airlines present chairman Ahmed Din Saeed Al Maktoum headed the organization. The Airlines is one of the only nine airlines in the world that are operating an all-wide body fleet of aircrafts, operating a mixture of aircrafts like Boeing and Airbus having a centerpiece as Boeing 777. An order of 90 Airbus A380s has already been ordered by the emirates of which 20 aircrafts has been already delivered and are in service and also after the Singapore airlines is the second Airlines to have the Airbus A380-800 to be in operation after the delivery of their first aircraft on 28 July 2008. The Airline has been one of the largest buyers of the Aircrafts and has purchased over 130 aircrafts in the year of 2007 alone. They has been the largest carrier in the Middle East in terms of fleet size, Passengers carried and revenue and has been ranked amongst the top 10 carriers worldwide as per the passengers and revenue generated by the airlines till 2007. The company was the largest in terms of number of scheduled passenger kilometers flown in the world internationally and has been the fourth largest airline in the world. Also they have been the third largest as per the scheduled freight tonne-kilometers flown. Environmental forces Demographic Environment Dubai being the fastest growing emirates has around 300,000 people that are added to the population of UAE every year (Uaeinteract.com, 2009). The airline sector of UAE has been ever growing as a result of this growth rate and the wide spread geographical area and the densely populated cites of UAE. This has resulted in a larger market compared to smaller countries. It has been observed that most of the population of UAE is comprised of young people and which will result in providing a base for the aviation industry in the coming years. Most of the people that travel through flights are aged 50 or above as they have more time to meet their friends and family as compared to young people who are mostly busy with their life and are working. As a result of large young population there is scope of larger number of older people in the near future. Educated people can afford to travel by air as they have made their earnings. Employees of multinational corporations have to frequently travel to other countries and are very important customers for the Emirate Airlines (Sardone, 2012). As per a survey conducted about 70% of the decisions related to vacation planning are made by women. In Dubai most families so not consult the women in the decision making but in the changing times, women has been influencing the decisions made which are concerned with the safety of the families. In percept of travelling the safety of the family has been a major concern for the women in the family rather than money hence the cost and other travelling opinions are second. The women are more likely to go for a trip that is both economical and safe so the company has to highlight major perspective and add attractive points in order for the women to choose their airlines such that the company can have a safe journey at a minimal cost. Airlines tend to decrease the cost of the tickets of the flight for the destinations which are le ss safe but for a matter of fact women tend to choose safety over cost of the trip (Dragon, 2009). Economic Environment The economic environment is related to the economic policies, economic systems and economic conditions of the country that have a direct effect on the economy and the functioning of the industry as a whole and also on the organization. A country with liberal economic policies has a positive effect on the industry as a result of the indirect influence of the bilateral trade agreements. As the increase in the rate of inflation, cost of fare, cost of fuel and other factors, people tend to avoid travelling by airlines and only travel for unavoidable issues, and also they tend to use cheaper means of travelling. The Global financial crisis did not have much impact on the airlines industry as a result of which currently the airlines industry is booming and Emirates airlines also took a benefit from this. In 2009 the inflation rate of UAE was 3% 4% which was predicted to fall even more, before that it was around 11% which has resulted in less frequent travels around the globe (Uaeinteract.com, 2009). Now as there has been a drop in inflation and the value of currency in the country is high, people have more purchasing power and hence they will intend to travel more and most frequently by air. As a result the airline companies decreases there prices while recession and in boom they tend to increase their fare charges. Socio-Cultural factors UAE has coasts among the Indian Ocean as well as the Persian Gulf hence fishing is an important part of the Arab peopleà ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚ ¢s life. Islam is officially the religion of the people of UAE but still alcohol is available to the non-Muslim people living there and in hotels. The tourism is an important part of the country hence the airline services are also to be modified as per the tourists who come from other countries for the culture of the country and its tourism spots. The cultural and social aspects of environment plays an important role in the success of an organization and company like the Emirate airlines also have to comply to these as they have to work in this society. Keeping all these factors in mind, Emirate airlines frames customized services, promotion techniques and prices. The price product strategy is to be devised such that the cost to those destinations that are being travelled less frequently should be low (AMEInfo, 2012). Political Legal Factors As we are aware the Emirate airlines was very much under political influence during 2000s, the situation was in favor of the airlines. There were many for performing their general operations. Both the national and international laws had to be followed for successful operation in different companies. The prime problems that came to the mind of travelers included instability in international market and relationship between two countries. Emirate airlines fulfilled the NATO standards despite of high oil prices and high regional instability. (Emirates.com, 2012) Technological Environment The prime issues faced by the Emirate Airlines in such an environment include dynamic change in technology, countless opportunities for innovations, varying research and budgets for development. There has been introduction of Airbus A380-880 which provides better comfort to the passengers and due to its lightweight the fuel consumption is also less. Also the introduction of Boeing 777 was another great step in technological advancement as it enables to carry greater number of passengers and is also more fuel efficient. Another important advancement was use of bio-fuels which are more efficient and eco-friendly. For accomplishing this task Emirate Airlines is closely working with the RD division in order to inspire market-oriented research. A lot of other technological changes have been made like;use of internet based technologies to provide proper and easy record keeping of customers and hence provides better services, complaint mechanisms etc. (Emirates, 2012) The Cultural Web Following are the elements of cultural web given by Gerry Johnson (1988) in context to Emirate Airlines Invalid source specified.: Stories Emirate Airlines has been one of the most regarded companies not only in UAE but all over the world. Common external people have always been satisfied with the corporate behavior of Emirate Airlines. People always remark that company has been able to adhere to the needs of community and society. Also, the values of the company are able to meet the needs of environment. The employees also carry high morale while working in the Emirate Airlines due to effective leadership of high level management. Employees always talk about how the management has been able to make sure that employees adhere to the needs of other employees as well as to the internal and external environment. The new joiners are always told about the competencies and excellence of executive level management and motivated to learn many skills for acting effectively in the corporate world. Employees talks about the establishment of Emirate Airlines from just two aircrafts wet-leased from Pakistan International Airport. Th e current top story of Emirate Airlines among employees and stakeholders include the record profit of AED 5.9 billion last year. The heroes of these stories include the names like His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum who has been a pioneer figure in spearheading successful expansion of aviation industry, Sir Maurice Flanagan who is the executive vice chairman of the company, etc. Moreover, the communities belonging to over 100 cities have a great relationship with Emirate Airlines who admirably talk about the community initiatives like Emirate Airline Foundation, Emirate Friendship Hospital Group, Emirate CHES Home, etc. Overall, the company has been successful enough in generating a distinctive organizational behavior that is going to be a role model for rest of the airline industry. Rituals and Routines Customers expect the very diligence in the quality of service that Emirate Airlines has maintained over past several numbers of decades. Also, they like to be served in a standard way without compromising with the cultural variances in the different nations where Emirate Airlines offers services. They always remain satisfied with the companyà ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚ ¢s diversity management approaches by which Emirate Airlines ensures the fulfillment of needs and demands of services of clients in global market. However, due to recessions and global economy slowdown customers expects the cutting down of prices of tickets. Furthermore, they always expect yearly newsletters and brochures with updated offers and schemes about tour packages that Emirate Airlines offers. Employees are also very enthusiastic about the benefit programs that companyà ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚ ¢s management plan from them. They also expect their positive performance cards examined carefully by the m anagement. They always show enough amount of zeal in participating in the execution of strategic plans meant for improving the performance of company in the market. They seek learning in a friendly environment with their managers, sub-ordinates, and peers. These routines and rituals represent fairly pleasant organizational culture in Emirate Airlines with both customers as well as employees acting considerably in an agreeable manner. Moreover, any change if decided by the management could be easily entertained by the employees as they have an effective leadership to guide them through the change however the company may be required to give higher efforts to get immediate positive response from the customers. Symbols The company carries a symbol of high dignity and decorum with its name representing the matchless quality of products and services. The employees working client-side wears a disciplined and standard uniform while offering the most elegant aviation services to every customer they serve. Inside the organization, employees may find their bosses dressed up in the western corporate formal dresses as well as traditional Emirati dress representing the respect for cultural diversity by the company. The famous logo of the company can be easily found at numerous international airports all around the world along with the numerous cabs, vans, and other vehicles associated with Emirate Airlines. Company also sponsors a number of sport events where players can be seen carrying the logo of the company. These symbols represent high status of company in the airline industry with its unparallel leadership in the aviation services. Staff working in the company is extremely proud of these symbols and ta ke them as a pride while at the same time customers like to be served by the company as well as wearing the caps or t-shirts carrying the logo of Emirate Airlines. Organizational Structure The organizational structure of Emirate Airlines is highly hierarchical right from His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoumas chairman and chief executive of company to the executive level management, senior managers, managers, and lower level employees. All 62,000 employees working in 50 different business units of Emirate Airlines work in a hierarchy for smooth functioning of the company. The employees at the same level of hierarchy work with extreme coordination along with their managers and sub-ordinates in executing the planned work and making miscellaneous decisions during the work. This coordination is quite healthy and favorable for execution of complex strategies related with different aspects of the business. Control Systems Emirate Airlines has a strong control over the costs and quality of services and products that they offer. The customers are optimally charged for the cost of production of services delivered to them. Also, a major emphasis is laid over the cost incurred in getting the work done to have a better control over the expenses. However, quality is the top most priority which is controlled through several checks at the strategic as well as the operational level. The employees are also guided strictly to make no compromise in terms of quality especially when they are dealing with the customers. Moreover, employees are sometimes penalized for poor work if quality is compromised anywhere in the work. Thus, Emirate Airlines is quite particular with its employees when it is dealing with quality and costs. Moreover, every team has adequate number of skillful employees who are headed by the competent managers which are further responsible to the executive level staff. A great emphasis is made that control is executed through a hierarchy of leaders till the ground level employees. The level of bureaucracy is fairly less in the company. Power Structures The power in Emirate Airlines is fairly decentralized with the work being strategically divided among different departments at higher levels. However, at the lower level of management, there are only limited powers bestowed upon the managers. The key decisions are made only at the top level while managers at middle and lower levels have the only responsibility to execute them. The departments such as the service, human resource, passenger sales, etc are solely headed by their respective vice presidents who make the key decisions without much participation from lower levels. But at the same time, these key people have played a great role in the history of Emirate Airlines. They have a great influence over employees as well which help the company quickly and effectively act to different situations. Nevertheless, Emirate Airlines has a considerable power distance in its hierarchy. The Paradigm The summation of all the six elements of cultural web suggests quite an optimistic environment for the work in Emirate Airlines. Although some of the required aspects may be missing from the work culture of Emirate Airlines yet overall ingredients seems to be quite close to the taste of success in the coming future. The motivated employees and satisfied customers are always two targetable goals for any big business set-up and Emirate Airlines seems to have both in the current date. The advantage of such a culture in Emirate Airlines is the easy implementation of framed strategies without much internal resistance however the only disadvantage is less origination of ideas from lower hierarchy and possible dissatisfaction of employees in future that can be harmful for that company as competition increases in the market. An important value in Emirate Airlines is that a sub-ordinate has to blindly follow his/her senior and thus one thing that cannot be done in this company is questioning the senior regarding the procedure of execution of some planned work or advising them to accomplish some task in a different way. This particular aspect is somewhat contrary to that of Boeingà ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚ ¢s work where greater amount of freedom is given to the employees to give their inputs is strategy building. Therefore, I would like the culture at Emirate Airlines changed a bit in order to involve greater participation of employees and lower level managers. Recommendation for change Following are some of the recommendations for change Invalid source specified.: Lower level managers and employees should be provided greater powers to make strategic decisions in the company. An advisory board may be built to take suggestions from the employees and further discuss them before recommending those suggestions to upper level management. Employees should be trained enough to make key decisions on behalf of their managers to make quick operations if managers are absent.

A Reflection on My Writing Essay -- Personal Narrative Education Writi

A Reflection on My Writing The journey through language and literature has always been an intriguing one for me. It is for this reason that I chose English as my major. It seems that every teacher or professor that I have had, has always been able to pinpoint one specific element in my writing that I need to work on. This has not been a negative thing by any stretch, because with each passing semester there is an element of my literature that will be perfected for the next. This is the wonder that is English, and the reason for my passion in this subject area. In this class I have really learned to use a different level of thinking in my papers. Teachers often have complemented my ability to prove a point with the spoken word, but always offer advice when referencing my ability to compel by the written word. My first lesson in Literature was to bring myself down a level. I used to have an opinion, and write it, never citing or backing it up. My teachers taught me to incorporate others opinions into my own, explaining that until there is a credit to my name, no one is concerned about my opinion without someone credible backing it up. I took that knowledge and used it, learning to be an aggressive researcher, never resting until I have exhausted all sources. Then I entered introduction to literature 132, and this is where I had to learn to take that ability to the next level. There would be no more leaving quotes wandering, never introduced, or turning my paper into a commentary on someone else’s quotes. I learned to effectively use quotations and research, and still keep my Identity as a writer. This was a prodigious step, and one I will ever be purifying. â€Å"Write a Thesis driven paper,† this was by far... ...t express the wealth of knowledge that I feel that I have learned from this class. There seems to be so much more to learn, so many places we never had the chance to go; so much so, that I have opted to take your class again next semester. In the meantime, I will continue my passion for writing and literature in my life. I have been offered an editor position for the New Morning next year, and I am going to take that. I especially enjoy journalism; it is short and clever, full of rhetoric, and a pleasure for me to write. I will enjoy my time at school while no one else is there, and after swim practice, when no one else is around, I will most likely read a plethora of books. Maybe I will even get a jump start on American Literature. Until my next literature class, I will practice the concepts that I have learned every day, until they embody my very nature.

Nursing mania patients

The article â€Å"Nursing interventions for the management of patients with mania† by McColm et al. (2005) gives details concerning the definition, diagnosis, and treatment of patients who suffer with the psychological disorder of mania. The problem is one concerning the mood of the patient, which is often much more elevated than is safe and wholesome for the healthy individual. Because the disorder has to do with a person’s perception of reality and the behaviors exhibited as a result of this, the article relates well to the issues examined within the Psychiatric Nursing arena. The ideas of reason and madness are closely tied to the manic disorder, and the article gives a distinctly nursing perspective on the treatment, as it outlines precise ways in which the nursing professional should deal with such a patient. These methods include efforts at maintaining and preserving the patient’s physical health by minimizing the adverse effects of the mental disorder on his/her actions. The nursing methods presented in this article also indicate the importance of providing psychological and emotional support to the patient. Overall, the fact that psychological reasons behind the disorder are highlighted and treatments given from that perspective indicate the relevance of this article to the Psychiatric Nursing class. Despite the fact that diagnosis is not the predominant role of the nurse, information given within the article concerning the signs, symptoms and prognosis of manic disorder provides information that allow the nurse to recognize and understand such a disorder. The nursing interventions indicated for patients suffering from mania range from mild to acute measures—from counseling and support to â€Å"rapid tranquillisation† (McColm et al., 2005). The psychological support to be give by the nurse includes the development of a relationship of trust between the patient and nursing professional. The nurse is urged to show consideration for the emotional and psychological needs of the patient, while also taking care to monitor the impact of the patient on others within the environment. The nurse is also encouraged to seek an understanding of the physical risk the patient poses to himself and others. This highlights the need for research into the behavioral history of the patient through developing relationships with family and friends. Once the nurse has gained such information, continued monitoring and observation should provide knowledge of behavioral changes that might prove harmful to the patient. Such information includes the patient’s attitude toward nourishment, aggression, harmful or addictive substances, and even sexual activity. In treating these, nurses are encouraged to offer food and drink in manageable form and on a regular basis if the patient is observed to neglect such care of him-/herself. For example, drinks low in caffeine and food low in sugar would help control the patient’s hyperactivity. The nurse should also make sure that the atmosphere in which the patient is housed is one that promotes tranquility and discourages aggression. Yet this should be balanced with the patient’s need for intellectual, emotional and physical stimulation, which should be regulated by the nurse to help him/her get rid of extra energy or stress. The empathic nature of nursing is also stressed by this article, as nurses are often in the position of becoming confidant to the psychologically ailing patient. This addresses the relationship of trust and respect that nurses are challenged to build between themselves and their patients. The nature of the manic disorder dictates that patients might sometimes become embarrassed about their behavior. Nurses should provide patients with the appropriate level of confidentiality, encouragement and support that derives from their understanding of the patient’s situation. Furthermore, nurses should be so aware of the patient’s current and previous emotional states so that the descent from mania beyond optimal recovery and into depression will be quickly identified and prevented. Finally, nurses should be concerned with preventing the patient’s relapse, and this involves the education of the patient and his/her family regarding the causes and dangers of mania. Reference McColm, R. et al., (2006). â€Å"Nursing interventions for the management of patients with mania.†   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Nursing Standard. 20(17), 46-49.

A Game of Thrones Chapter Nine

Tyrion Somewhere in the great stone maze of Winterfell, a wolf howled. The sound hung over the castle like a flag of mourning. Tyrion Lannister looked up from his books and shivered, though the library was snug and warm. Something about the howling of a wolf took a man right out of his here and now and left him in a dark forest of the mind, running naked before the pack. When the direwolf howled again, Tyrion shut the heavy leatherbound cover on the book he was reading, a hundred-year-old discourse on the changing of the seasons by a long-dead maester. He covered a yawn with the back of his hand. His reading lamp was flickering, its oil all but gone, as dawn light leaked through the high windows. He had been at it all night, but that was nothing new. Tyrion Lannister was not much a one for sleeping. His legs were stiff and sore as he eased down off the bench. He massaged some life back into them and limped heavily to the table where the septon was snoring softly, his head pillowed on an open book in front of him. Tyrion glanced at the title. A life of the Grand Maester Aethelmure, no wonder. â€Å"Chayle,† he said softly. The young man jerked up, blinking, confused, the crystal of his order swinging wildly on its silver chain. â€Å"I'm off to break my fast. See that you return the books to the shelves. Be gentle with the Valyrian scrolls, the parchment is very dry. Ayrmidon's Engines of War is quite rare, and yours is the only complete copy I've ever seen.† Chayle gaped at him, still half-asleep. Patiently, Tyrion repeated his instructions, then clapped the septon on the shoulder and left him to his tasks. Outside, Tyrion swallowed a lungful of the cold morning air and began his laborious descent of the steep stone steps that corkscrewed around the exterior of the library tower. It was slow going; the steps were cut high and narrow, while his legs were short and twisted. The rising sun had not yet cleared the walls of Winterfell, but the men were already hard at it in the yard below. Sandor Clegane's rasping voice drifted up to him. â€Å"The boy is a long time dying. I wish he would be quicker about it.† Tyrion glanced down and saw the Hound standing with young Joffrey as squires swarmed around them. â€Å"At least he dies quietly,† the prince replied. â€Å"It's the wolf that makes the noise. I could scarce sleep last night.† Clegane cast a long shadow across the hard-packed earth as his squire lowered the black helm over his head. â€Å"I could silence the creature, if it please you,† he said through his open visor. His boy placed a longsword in his hand. He tested the weight of it, slicing at the cold morning air. Behind him, the yard rang to the clangor of steel on steel. The notion seemed to delight the prince. â€Å"Send a dog to kill a dog!† he exclaimed. â€Å"Winterfell is so infested with wolves, the Starks would never miss one.† Tyrion hopped off the last step onto the yard. â€Å"I beg to differ, nephew,† he said. â€Å"The Starks can count past six. Unlike some princes I might name.† Joffrey had the grace at least to blush. â€Å"A voice from nowhere,† Sandor said. He peered through his helm, looking this way and that. â€Å"Spirits of the air!† The prince laughed, as he always laughed when his bodyguard did this mummer's farce. Tyrion was used to it. â€Å"Down here.† The tall man peered down at the ground, and pretended to notice him. â€Å"The little lord Tyrion,† he said. â€Å"My pardons. I did not see you standing there.† â€Å"I am in no mood for your insolence today.† Tyrion turned to his nephew. â€Å"Joffrey, it is past time you called on Lord Eddard and his lady, to offer them your comfort.† Joffrey looked as petulant as only a boy prince can look. â€Å"What good will my comfort do them?† â€Å"None,† Tyrion said. â€Å"Yet it is expected of you. Your absence has been noted.† â€Å"The Stark boy is nothing to me,† Joffrey said. â€Å"I cannot abide the wailing of women.† Tyrion Lannister reached up and slapped his nephew hard across the face. The boy's cheek began to redden. â€Å"One word,† Tyrion said, â€Å"and I will hit you again.† â€Å"I'm going to tell Mother!† Joffrey exclaimed. Tyrion hit him again. Now both cheeks flamed. â€Å"You tell your mother,† Tyrion told him. â€Å"But first you get yourself to Lord and Lady Stark, and you fall to your knees in front of them, and you tell them how very sorry you are, and that you are at their service if there is the slightest thing you can do for them or theirs in this desperate hour, and that all your prayers go with them. Do you understand? Do you?† The boy looked as though he was going to cry. Instead, he managed a weak nod. Then he turned and fled headlong from the yard, holding his cheek. Tyrion watched him run. A shadow fell across his face. He turned to find Clegane looming overhead like a cliff. His soot-dark armor seemed to blot out the sun. He had lowered the visor on his helm. It was fashioned in the likeness of a snarling black hound, fearsome to behold, but Tyrion had always thought it a great improvement over Clegane's hideously burned face. â€Å"The prince will remember that, little lord,† the Hound warned him. The helm turned his laugh into a hollow rumble. â€Å"I pray he does,† Tyrion Lannister replied. â€Å"If he forgets, be a good dog and remind him.† He glanced around the courtyard. â€Å"Do you know where I might find my brother?† â€Å"Breaking fast with the queen.† â€Å"Ah,† Tyrion said. He gave Sandor Clegane a perfunctory nod and walked away as briskly as his stunted legs would carry him, whistling. He pitied the first knight to try the Hound today. The man did have a temper. A cold, cheerless meal had been laid out in the morning room of the Guest House. Jaime sat at table with Cersei and the children, talking in low, hushed voices. â€Å"Is Robert still abed?† Tyrion asked as he seated himself, uninvited, at the table. His sister peered at him with the same expression of faint distaste she had worn since the day he was born. â€Å"The king has not slept at all,† she told him. â€Å"He is with Lord Eddard. He has taken their sorrow deeply to heart.† â€Å"He has a large heart, our Robert,† Jaime said with a lazy smile. There was very little that Jaime took seriously. Tyrion knew that about his brother, and forgave it. During all the terrible long years of his childhood, only Jaime had ever shown him the smallest measure of affection or respect, and for that Tyrion was willing to forgive him most anything. A servant approached. â€Å"Bread,† Tyrion told him, â€Å"and two of those little fish, and a mug of that good dark beer to wash them down. Oh, and some bacon. Burn it until it turns black.† The man bowed and moved off. Tyrion turned back to his siblings. Twins, male and female. They looked very much the part this morning. Both had chosen a deep green that matched their eyes. Their blond curls were all a fashionable tumble, and gold ornaments shone at wrists and fingers and throats. Tyrion wondered what it would be like to have a twin, and decided that he would rather not know. Bad enough to face himself in a looking glass every day. Another him was a thought too dreadful to contemplate. Prince Tommen spoke up. â€Å"Do you have news of Bran, Uncle?† â€Å"I stopped by the sickroom last night,† Tyrion announced. â€Å"There was no change. The maester thought that a hopeful sign.† â€Å"I don't want Brandon to die,† Tommen said timorously. He was a sweet boy. Not like his brother, but then Jaime and Tyrion were somewhat less than peas in a pod themselves. â€Å"Lord Eddard had a brother named Brandon as well,† Jaime mused. â€Å"One of the hostages murdered by Targaryen. It seems to be an unlucky name.† â€Å"Oh, not so unlucky as all that, surely,† Tyrion said. The servant brought his plate. He ripped off a chunk of black bread. Cersei was studying him warily. â€Å"What do you mean?† Tyrion gave her a crooked smile. â€Å"Why, only that Tommen may get his wish. The maester thinks the boy may yet live.† He took a sip of beer. Myrcella gave a happy gasp, and Tommen smiled nervously, but it was not the children Tyrion was watching. The glance that passed between Jaime and Cersei lasted no more than a second, but he did not miss it. Then his sister dropped her gaze to the table. â€Å"That is no mercy. These northern gods are cruel to let the child linger in such pain.† â€Å"What were the maester's words?† Jaime asked. The bacon crunched when he bit into it. Tyrion chewed thoughtfully for a moment and said, â€Å"He thinks that if the boy were going to die, he would have done so already. It has been four days with no change.† â€Å"Will Bran get better, Uncle?† little Myrcella asked. She had all of her mother's beauty, and none of her nature. â€Å"His back is broken, little one,† Tyrion told her. â€Å"The fall shattered his legs as well. They keep him alive with honey and water, or he would starve to death. Perhaps, if he wakes, he will be able to eat real food, but he will never walk again.† â€Å"If he wakes,† Cersei repeated. â€Å"Is that likely?† â€Å"The gods alone know,† Tyrion told her. â€Å"The maester only hopes.† He chewed some more bread. â€Å"I would swear that wolf of his is keeping the boy alive. The creature is outside his window day and night, howling. Every time they chase it away, it returns. The maester said they closed the window once, to shut out the noise, and Bran seemed to weaken. When they opened it again, his heart beat stronger.† The queen shuddered. â€Å"There is something unnatural about those animals,† she said. â€Å"They are dangerous. I will not have any of them coming south with us.† Jaime said, â€Å"You'll have a hard time stopping them, sister. They follow those girls everywhere.† Tyrion started on his fish. â€Å"Are you leaving soon, then?† â€Å"Not near soon enough,† Cersei said. Then she frowned. â€Å"Are we leaving?† she echoed. â€Å"What about you? Gods, don't tell me you are staying here?† Tyrion shrugged. â€Å"Benjen Stark is returning to the Night's Watch with his brother's bastard. I have a mind to go with them and see this Wall we have all heard so much of.† Jaime smiled. â€Å"I hope you're not thinking of taking the black on us, sweet brother.† Tyrion laughed. â€Å"What, me, celibate? The whores would go begging from Dorne to Casterly Rock. No, I just want to stand on top of the Wall and piss off the edge of the world.† Cersei stood abruptly. â€Å"The children don't need to hear this filth. Tommen, Myrcella, come.† She strode briskly from the morning room, her train and her pups trailing behind her. Jaime Lannister regarded his brother thoughtfully with those cool green eyes. â€Å"Stark will never consent to leave Winterfell with his son lingering in the shadow of death.† â€Å"He will if Robert commands it,† Tyrion said. â€Å"And Robert will command it. There is nothing Lord Eddard can do for the boy in any case.† â€Å"He could end his torment,† Jaime said. â€Å"I would, if it were my son. It would be a mercy.† â€Å"I advise against putting that suggestion to Lord Eddard, sweet brother,† Tyrion said. â€Å"He would not take it kindly.† â€Å"Even if the boy does live, he will be a cripple. Worse than a cripple. A grotesque. Give me a good clean death.† Tyrion replied with a shrug that accentuated the twist of his shoulders. â€Å"Speaking for the grotesques,† he said, â€Å"I beg to differ. Death is so terribly final, while life is full of possibilities.† Jaime smiled. â€Å"You are a perverse little imp, aren't you?† â€Å"Oh, yes,† Tyrion admitted. â€Å"I hope the boy does wake. I would be most interested to hear what he might have to say.† His brother's smile curdled like sour milk. â€Å"Tyrion, my sweet brother,† he said darkly, â€Å"there are times when you give me cause to wonder whose side you are on.† Tyrion's mouth was full of bread and fish. He took a swallow of strong black beer to wash it all down, and grinned up wolfishly at Jaime, â€Å"Why, Jaime, my sweet brother,† he said, â€Å"you wound me. You know how much I love my family.†

Faneuil Hall essays

Faneuil Hall essays In the early eighteenth century Boston did not have a central area to participate in commerce and civic duty. Street vendors who roamed the city with their pushcarts sold food and other items. Boston was the center of trade at this point in time and the need for a central marketplace was profound. The city was growing at a rapid pace and was running out of land. Businessmen from the outskirts of Boston brought trash and dirt to the harbor. The men dumped the dirt off of the piers and eventually created piles large enough to cover with fill and build on. Many say that parts of Boston were stolen from the sea. The CAS building is a prime example of an area that was built on a dump. If Boston were to ever be hit with an earthquake many of its structures would fall into the Charles River or the harbor. In 1742, Faneuil hall was constructed on the soft sediment fill. Peter Faneuil, a wealthy Bostonian, donated the citys first market place. Faneuil hall is one of the most promi nent open spaces in Boston. The site is only open to pedestrians and is characterized by its unique cobblestone streets. There are three markets (North, South, Quincy) that define the barriers of the marketplace. The area is alive with the characteristics of both the old world and the new. The most remarkable and identifiable aspect of Faneuil hall in 1762 was its usage. Originally constructed in 1742 by Smibert, it burnt to the ground nineteen years later. In 1762 the hall was used as a meeting place for the men who organized the American Revolution. In 1805 Charles Bullfinch was chosen to renovate the hall so that it could better serve the expanding city. Faneuil hall was originally three-barrel tunnel rows wide and constructed of a brick. Bullfinch and his team expanded it to seven and incorporated the existing structure of the hall into the renovation. He also added a third floor, which was pr ...

Private Prisons in Texas Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Private Prisons in Texas - Research Paper Example The aim of the creation of private prisons has been for the purpose of making a profit by private entities through the taking over the tasks of convict rehabilitation that were conducted by the government. While this has been the case, the fact remains that there has been a lot of concern about the shifting of legal punishment from the public to the private sector, the logic being that governments, being accountable to the public, are more concerned about the welfare of those imprisoned than private institutions, which have no real interests in the inmates except for the economic benefits that they receive. Therefore, the concerns raised are based on the fact that private prisons may be lax in their establishment of a corrections system that is effective as compared to government held prisons, which have such guarantees. Private prisons in the state of Texas have been criticized to be business institutions whose main aim is to ensure that they maximize their profits, since their driv ing incentive is to make as much money as possible. Plenty of skepticism in such prisons have been raised because of the fact that prisons have now become profit yielding institutions through the imprisoning of individuals caught committing crimes and sentenced. Despite the concerns that have been raised above about the establishment of private prisons, the government of Texas has continued to be adamant that private corporations can run prisons as well as the government itself and that there is no need to worry about these institutions’ doing a bad job. The state of Texas has attempted to delegate the functions of punishment to private companies with the intention of relieving itself of the burden, but also ensuring that these companies remain accountable to the public. While this has been the case, there has developed the need to ensure that these private entities are indeed performing the functions that have been delegated to them with as much diligence as would have the g overnment.1 This has created a situation where studies have to be conducted so that it can be established how the contractual relationship between private prisons and the government, relating to how the formation, maintenance and other aspects of the prisons are worked out between them. When dealing with the formation, the expectations of the private institution as well as those of the government concerning what the prison’s management will require are considered so that it is known how the prison will be developed as well as how it will be staffed. The maintenance of the prison has been outlined as the affairs which will be involved in the daily running of the prison as well as the establishment of the definitions of how the prisoners will relate to each other as well as how they will relate with the members of the prison staff.2 When one considers liability in private prisons, it basically deals with the failure of the parties involved, either the government or the private entity, to fulfill their obligations as stated in the contract between them and the consequences that are likely to follow. Through the insistence of these obligations, it becomes an obligation for both the government and the private entities running the prison to ensure that there is accountability to the public in the process. Thus, accountability can be enforced, whereby there is the protection of the various social groups within the

Geographical Information System Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Geographical Information System - Research Paper Example GIS supports spatial analysis and modeling within the discipline of geography (e.g. location, proximity and spatial distribution), so that it becomes a vital tool for modern geography. (Molenaar, 1992) The data that will be used for this project for the project is available for an upland area of North-eastern United States. This area chosen for analysis and the beginner ski school is known as Browns Pond in the United States. Upon completion of the analysis the ed to use appropriate GIS will be used for such an analysis. The first problem that had to be analyzed was locating a Beginners' Ski School and finding the best location for a ski school catering for young children. The beginners ski mountain will have a consistent grade within a given ability level to provide an interesting ski experience for beginners. Comfortable Carrying Capacity (CCC) is defined as an optimal level of utilization for the ski area (the number of visitors that can be accommodated at any given time) which guarantees a pleasant recreational experience, while at the same time preserving the quality of the environment. The accurate estimation of the CCC of a mountain is a complex issue and is the single most important planning criterion for the beginners ski maintain. Given proper identification of the mountain's true capacity, all other related skier service facilities can be planned, such as base lodge seating, mountain restaurant requirements, sanitary facilities, parking, and other skier services. The CCC figure is based on a comparison of the uphill hourly capacity of the lift system to the downhill capacity of the trail (beginners) system, taking into account the typical amount of vertical terrain desired by skiers of beginner ability. Particular consideration should be given to the relationship of the base area to the beginner mountain facilities. Upon arrival at the ski area, skiers should be able to move directly from parking or other arrival points, through ticketing or rental locations, to the base of the lifts. Walking distance and vertical differential between the base area facilities and lifts should be minimized in an effort to move skiers directly onto the mountain. Vehicle, pedestrian, and skier circulation should be coordinated to create a safe and pleasant base area environment. The beginner skiers will not drive themselves to the mountain so this premise applies to their parents or whoever is supplying transportation to the beginning skier. The mountain master planning process emphasizes the importance of balancing recreational facility development. The size of the skier service functions must be adequate for the CCC of the mountain. The true capacity of the overall ski area is determined by the lowest of the limiting factors. The limiting factor of the ski area can either be trail capacity, lift capacity, support facility capacity, or parking capacity. The future development of a ski area should be designed and coordinated to maintain a balance between skier demand, ski area capacity (lifts and trails), and the supporting equipment and facilities (e.g., grooming machines, day lodge services and facilities, utility infrastructure, access, and parking). GIS calculations using an ArcView should be used to assess the following: Top Elevation - This is the elevation