Never Ever Give Up on Life Essay

Never ever give up on life! No matter how hard life gets. Everyday one is faced with problems, some are worse than others. Just because one thing in life goes wrong doesn’t mean you are to stop and just shut the book. One is supposed to use that as a lesson and keep flipping pages on the book. God put us all on this Earth for a reason. Everyone was made to do a little or major change in this world. Throughout those obstacles we face everyday is how people will insult us and try to bring our self-esteem down to the ground. But no don’t let that happen, we are beautiful so don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Relationships! That’s another thing that can mess up a lot of people’s brain. Just because your boyfriend/girlfriend left you, doesn’t give you the right to take your life away. You are worth much more than that. Trust me! God created a soulmate for all of us, but it’s on us to go out and search for it. Don’t literally mean go flirt with a thousand people but talk to others get to know them better and determine what they really mean to you and where they stand at. But like I said giving up on life because your partner left you is not a great idea for he/she is happpily going on with their life. Don’t you think if they actually felt a little remorse or something they would’ve maybe came back to you or even considered to apologize or something. So my only word of advice is never ever ever give up on life regardless of how bad the circumstance is.

An overview of Qantas Group Business Practices Essay

Executive Summary This report is commission to analyse the activities of the Qantas Group and main risks that Qantas has to face. Through analysing the factors that may affect the profit of the corporation, different derivatives that Qantas Group can use to hedge the risks are discussed and the advantages and disadvantages of these derivatives are given. As a listed company, Qantas Group focuses on providing airline services both in domestic and international markets. During daily operations, input price risk, foreign exchange risk and stock price risk are the main risks that the company has to use different derivatives to control. Based on analysis, it is suggested that these risks could be hedged by using options and forward contracts respectively and specific reasons are provided to demonstrate the feasibility of these derivatives. Through hedging, it is believed that the risks of Qantas facing today could be better controlled in the future. 1.1 Activity Description Qantas Airways Limited is Austra lia’s number one airline, which connects Australia to 81 destinations in 40 other countries worldwide and operates extensive domestic services in both Australia and New Zealand (Qantas Airways Limited 2011). Its main business is the ‘transportation of passengers using two complementary airlines, Qantas and Jetstar, operating international, domestic and regional services’ (Qantas Airways Limited 2011). In addition to airline brands, the Qantas Group operates a number of related activities to broaden its portfolio of businesses and investments, such as Qantas Frequent Flyer and Qantas Freight Enterprises. With the increasing competition in the airline industry, Qantas Group continues to manage its strategic, financial and operational risks, respect the rights of shareholders, introduce new technology that enhance the customer experience and provide more safety service (Qantas Airways Limited 2011). According to the 2011 annual report, Qantas had suffered several significant weather events and natural disasters during the year. Hence, Qantas now tries to control the potential risks and recover the airfreight market through improving its joint venture agreements with both domestic and international airfreight network. 1.2 Main risks As a listed national airline company which occupies approximate 65% Australian domestic market share and 18% international market share (Qantas review 201 2), Qantas faces various risks during its daily operations, mainly including input  price risks, foreign exchange risk and stock price risk. The input price risk refers to the volatile in the prices of inputs which may impact a company’s financial result (Harper 2010). As an airline company, Qantas heavily depends on the jet fuel to support its normal business operation. For instance, it incurred 3,684 and 4,329 million dollars of fuel costs in 2011 and 2012, separately (Qantas Airways Limited 2012), which leads the company to be significantly sensitive to the price fluctuations in the jet fuels. As a rise in the fuel price might largely increase the costs of flight services while a decline in input price would save costs in contrast, it may further influence the ticket prices and sales volume in its business. In other words, it exposes Qantas to the input price risk to a relative high level. The foreign exchange risk is the financial risk of an exposure to unexpected exchange rates between currencies, which may have either a positive or negative impact to a company’s financial position and performance (Harper 2010). Besides the domestic destinations, Qantas also serves international flights and has developed codeshare relationships and joint service agreements with many foreign airline companies all over the world (Ports and Relationships 201 2). It indicates that Qantas has to face the financial risk in the unanticipated currency exchange rates between Australian dollar and various foreign currencies in terms of sales, costs, expenses and investments. As a listed company on the ASX, Qantas also confronts the stock price risk, as the changes and fluctuations in its stock price may significantly impact the entity’s financial position and shareholders’ wealth. Generally the stock price is influenced by both the macroeconomic trends and the corporation-specific factors. For instance, the global economy recession may impact the financial situation in all industries including airlines, which would result in the decline in all stock prices in the stock market; while some company-specific factors only influence the certain company’s stock price, such as the weather factors suffered by Qantas which affect its services and financial performance may specifically impact the stoke price of Qantas. As explained by Harper (2010), many companies develop strategies to hedge risks by adopting certain derivatives. Qantas can choose proper derivatives such as futures and options to assist in reducing the risks mentioned above to a reasonable level. Hedging input price risk by using options Hedging through options  could reduce the risk from potential future market movements (Hull 2011). Because of the great deal of jet fuel consuming, the price changes in inputs (fuel) are of significant importance to Qantas (Investopedia 2012). Qantas hedges against the price increase of jet fuel (crude oil and jet kerosene) to eliminate the potential risk. Qantas held the hedging using options, which is traded on the Australian securities exchange, of future aviation fuel purchases by crude oil and jet kerosene derivative contracts in 2012 (Qantas Airways Limited 2012). Qantas uses options on crude oil and jet kerosene to hedge exposure to fuel price movements. According to Qantas policy, up to 80% of the estimated fuel consumption out to 12 months and up to 40% in the subsequent 12 months could be hedged. Any other hedging outside the parameters must be approved by the Qantas Board. 58% (2012) and 53% (2011) of the estimated fuel exposure less than one year have been hedged. Also, 6% (2012) and 9% (2011) of the estimated fuel exposures more than one year but less than three years have been hedged. The net gain from future aviation fuel payments less than one year is minus $11 million (2012) and $130 million (2011) (See Appendix 2.1.1) (Qantas Airways Limited 2012). Advantages and disadvantages: The advantage associated with the hedging strategy is that it reduces the potential fuel price movement risks. Qantas airway, which provides airline services to customers, has no particular skills in predicting changes, fuel price for example (Hull 2011). Hedging the risks associated with these potential increasing variables could be beneficial. Qantas could place more focus on the main business activities by avoiding unpleasant risks through hedging (Hull 2011). However, there are several limitations within the hedging strategy. First, competitive pressures within the airline industry could result in the fluctuation of costs of raw materials. As a result, companies without hedging strategy can have constant profit margins, and companies which have adopted hedging strategies to reduce potential risks may have fluctuating profit margins (Hull 2011). Second, Bakshi and Kapadia (2003) argued that there could be a market price for the exposure to volatility uncertainties when the expected volatility is not constant. The fuel price could experience increasing or decreasing in the estimated period of time, so the hedging using options could bring a loss of the upfront payment.2.2 Hedging foreign exchange risk by using forward contracts The basic principle of hedging foreign exchange  risk is to exchange the currency when exchange rate is favourable, and then invest currency which is native to the country of origin. The purpose of this approach is to prevent a monetary loss by safeguarding the investor against currency exchange rate fluctuation (Sayali Bedekar Patil 2012). Forward contracts are usually used to lock the receipts and payments in a fixed exchange rate. It offers stability to both the receipts and payments. In Australia many banks provide forward rate as a service to customers. By entering into a forward contract with a bank, the Qantas can simply transfer the risk to the bank, which will now have to bear. In this case, Qantas forecasts the exchange rate could fluctuate and end with a possible depreciation of USD. Qantas then can enter into a short forwards contract with a bank to fix the exchange rate reduce the foreign currency risk. FXStreet website (2012) contains information on spot and forward quotes for the AUD/USD exchange rate, Dec 24, 2012. (See Appendix 2.2.1) By entering into the forwards contract using forwards, Qantas is guaranteed of an exchange rate of AUD 1.0375 per USD in the future irrespective of the spot exchange rate in three months. If USD were actually depreciated in three months, Qantas would hedge the risk. However, if it were to appreciate, then Qantas would have to forego favourable movement and hence bear implied losses. Advantages and disadvantages: Forward contract is a management technique to reduce, mitigate and eliminate risks. The transactions are over the counter without regulation, so the two parties (buyer and seller) can negotiate that they mutual ly agree in any terms, such as the underlying asset, timing, location, amount and type of trade. The contracts are characterized in flexibility, they are not settled until the specified date so there is no initial upfront payment required, moreover, there is no commission paid on the trade (Khalid, Mohammed, Abdul and Hisham 2011). On the other hand, the contracts are often illiquid, because a forward contract is usually designed to meet specific needs. The buyer may find it difficult to sell the position to a third party because of its specificity. Moreover, the credit risk exists as the clearinghouse does not guarantee the amount. Finally, it is unregulated that a formal body has the responsibility for setting regulations and procedures to protect their transition (Khalid, Mohammed, Abdul and Hisham 2011). 2.3 Hedge stock price risk by using options Stock price risk refers to the company performing under its  expectation, i.e. a decrease in its stock price (Moazeni and Foroghy 2012). Greater returns should be in relation with higher stock risks (Koslowsky 2009), and to pursu e a higher return in stock market, Qantas has to face a higher level of stock risks, i.e. a larger possibility that the company may suffer loss when stock price decrease. To hedge the stock risk, i.e. to hedge stock price from decreasing, we found that Qantas has a number of call and put options in market, with underlying assets of Qantas Airways, of different expiry date, either in American or in European style, which is in turn effectively in manage its exposure to risk in stock market. Call option refers to the right to buy while put option refers to the right to sell. As an option seller, Qantas uses call options for the Airways stock in expectation that the stock price will decrease in the future whereas use put options for the Airways in expectations that the stock price will increase in the future. First of all, as a call option seller, Qantas will get benefit when the market price is below the exercise price as their exercise price is locked. This is because their counterparty will not exercise the option when market price is below the exercise price, so Qantas will benefit from the premium their counterparties paid. Similarly, as a put option seller, Qantas will benefit when stock price increases. In addition, as we found that Qantas has a number of options with different expiry date up to 17/12/2015 (ASX 2012), we could say that Qantas will be effective in managing its stock risk by using options in a time horizon. Advantages and disadvantages: The advantage of shorting options is the option seller will get benefit, i.e. premium paid by their counterparties, in shorting calls when stock price increases, and in shorting puts when stock price decreases, and it is quite flexible, as their counterparties can exercise the option before the expiry date, depending on the volatility of the share price. However, the disadvantage of selling option is the loss from stock price volatility, that is, the loss is unlimited in selling call options when stock price increases and in selling put options when stock price decreases. Reference List: ASX. 2012, viewed 28 December 2012, Bakshi, G. and Kapadia, N. 2003, ‘Delta-Hedged Gains and the Negative Market Volatility Risk Premium’, Review of Financial Studies, vol. 16, pp. 527-566. FXStreet, 2012, FXStreet, viewed 24 December 2012,  Harper, D. 2010, How Companies Use Derivatives To Hedge Risk, Investopedia, viewed 19 December 2012, Hull, J. C. 2011, Fundamentals of Futures and Options Markets, 7th ed., Prentice Hall, London. Investopedia, 2012, How Companies Use Derivatives To Hedge Risk, Investopedia US, A Division of ValueClick, Inc., viewed 20 December 2012, Kameel, A. and Meera, M. 2001, Hedging Foreign Exchange Risk with Forwards, Futures, Options and the Gold Dinar: A Comparison Note, Department of Business Administration International Islamic University Malaysia, Malaysia, viewed 24 December 2012, Khalid, Z. and Mohammed, J. and Mohammed, L. and Hisham, K. and Abdul, K. 2011, Islamic Derivatives in Saudi Arabia: Types of Forward Contracts, A l-Yamamah U niversity, viewed 24 December 2012, Koslowsky, D. 2009, ‘The Relationship between capital structure and expected returns’, University of Monitoba, viewed 28 December 2012, Moazeni, G. and Foroghy, D. 2012, ‘Stock Risk’s Management Applying Market Risk Premium in Tehran Stock Exchange’, International Conference on Accounting and Finance (AT), pp. 194-199. Ports and Relationships 2012, Qantas Airways Limited, Sydney, viewed 19 December 2012, Qantas Airways Limited 2011, Qantas Annual Report 2011, Qantas Airways Limited, Sydney, viewed 22 December 2012, Qantas Airways Limited 2012, Qantas Annual Report 2012, Qantas Airways Limited, Sydney, viewed 20 December 2012, Qantas reviews 2012, Air Review, viewed 19 December 2012, Sayali Bedekar Patil, 2012, Foreign Currency Hedging, viewed 24 December 2012,

Medical Marijuana

Dustin Flynn Assn# 5 Example/Comparison/Argumentative Inductive TREAT THE SYMPTOMS, NOT THE INJURY For centuries marijuana has been used by the top doctors of their time. And until recently, the past thirty years, the actual physical effects were unknown. Over the past three decades Science and Medicine have been researching what useful and healing effects this herb has, if any. Through my research I have found what I had only thought to be true. Marijuana does have great medicinal use. It is currently being used for an array of illnesses and injuries. But its most effective uses are focused in treating the onsets of AIDS and the symptoms from chemotherapy in the treatment of cancer. Those onsets and symptoms are anxiety, declining appetite, nausea, and general pain. These ailments bare a strong resemblance of the symptoms of Traumatic Brain Injury, or TBI. It is because of these resemblances that I have come to the conclusion that marijuana could be the best treatment for the symptoms associated with TBI. In this article I am going to explain the historical uses of marijuana, the symptoms of TBI, the current treatments for TBI, how marijuana works, and the valued effects that marijuana can provide for persons diagnosed with TBI. As I said before, marijuana has been used for centuries for medicinal use. The first uses are dated back before 4000 BCE, (Before Common Era), as a food source because of its protein and omega 3 content. â€Å"The first recorded medicinal use was in 2737 BCE. Emperor Shen-Nung of China suggested it be used for the treatment of constipation, menstruation cramps, rheumatism, malaria, gout, and absentmindedness. †(Sanna, 18) Now if we look at some of these ailments and diseases and take some of the symptoms that are associated with them. We can see that they are similar to symptoms associated with TBI. Take rheumatism for example, most people associate rheumatism with rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis. But in its most simple diagnosis it is described as general pain and weakness, which is a common symptom with a major diagnosis of TBI. Patients with a major diagnosis can be in, sometimes, constant pain, because the receptors in the brain that regulate pain are damaged due to their TBI. So centuries before things were the way they are now, there was a suitable prescription for one major symptom associated with TBI. Now lets look at absentmindedness, we cannot be sure what the exact definition of this could have been in 2737 BCE. But what we can take from this is that even back then it was acknowledged that marijuana was a suitable prescription for issues concerning the brain. The Emperor was able to see a beneficial change in mood, memory, or thought process. Something made a significant change for him to recommend marijuana. Marijuana became very popular medically in China and eventually made its way to Europe. Around 500 BCE marijuana reached Europe, and with its long reputation as a medicating plant, the Europeans immediately put it into personal testing. â€Å"Doctors of that time separated marijuana into two groups, weedy, and cultivated. †(Sanna 18) The weedy marijuana was best used for curing hard tumors. And the cultivated marijuana was best used for soothing and curing coughs. Now that might seem like a big difference in the severity of symptoms, but the Doctors of that time tested marijuana with almost every ailment and disease that was brought to their attention. Again as before, if we look at one of these symptoms and compare it with symptoms of TBI we can see the benefits. As a patient with any severity of TBI there is a higher risk of developing cancerous and malignant tumors in the brain. â€Å"Doctors and Scientists are unsure of why this is associated with TBI†(Chew 851-878), but their research shows that the risks are there. Marijuana has certain properties called â€Å"Cannabinoids† (Richmond) that actually convince tumors anywhere in the body to commit suicide. The reason this is so beneficial for patients with TBI, patients who are at higher risk of developing tumors in the brain, is because the â€Å"Cannabinoids† in marijuana link up with our bodies own â€Å"Endocannabinoid System†, (Richmond) a system which naturally produces cannabis in our bodies, and fight tumors in the brain. â€Å"Tumors in the brain are the hardest forms of tumors in the body to cure, because they are so hard to treat. (Chew 851-878) It is extremely dangerous for Doctors to operate on the the brain, and normal chemotherapy will usually kill the patient before it kills the tumor due to what is called the â€Å"blood/brain barrier†. (Chew 851-878) â€Å"The blood/brain barrier† is a filter of sorts, the brain has to have whole blood and oxygen to operate properly. The â€Å"blood/brain barr ier† filters out toxins such as the ones used in chemotherapy, and is very selective in what it lets in the brain. The â€Å"Cannabinoids† found in marijuana are able to pass through that â€Å"blood/brain barrier† freely which allows it to do its job and destroy tumors, naturally. Let us skip ahead to around the ninth century. Marijuana has gained popularity as a medicine everywhere east of the Atlantic. And in â€Å"India it was claimed to cure dandruff, Sexually Transmitted Diseases, leprosy, insomnia, and tuberculosis. † (Sanna 18) As far as these ailments and diseases go, insomnia is the one symptom that is shared with patients of TBI. Many patients with any severity of TBI experience insomnia, or other sleeping disorders. Research today supports the Indians theories that marijuana can and does treat insomnia. Now to bring it home, in the United States from 1850 to 1942 marijuana was actually listed in the U. S. Pharmacopeia, which is the list of government approved and recommended drugs for use in treatment of patients. At that time marijuana was stilled called cannabis and was being used in the treatment of labor pains and nausea. But in 1942 the United States Government declared cannabis, (marijuana), a level one narcotic and was made illegal to prescribe, posses, or cultivate. Out of the two ailments that marijuana was being used for at that time, nausea, is a direct symptom of TBI. Patients with any severity of TBI can have chronic nausea brought on by a injured equilibrium. This injury can have the affects of severe motion sickness even when a patient is standing or sitting still. Finally in 2003, â€Å"Canada became the first country in the world to offer medical marijuana to patients† (Sanna 18), initially if was for the treatments of symptoms associated with cancer and AIDS. Since 2003 some states in the United States have followed that example, California being the first, but since medical marijuana is still Federally illegal patients, Doctors, and pharmacies can be arrested, closed, and have their licenses removed. Which makes the freedom of prescribing and receiving medication difficult. â€Å"More than 5. 3 million people, or approximately two percent of the U. S. Population, are living with disabilities resulting from Traumatic Brain Injury. † (Chew 851-878) Here is a list of some of the difficult symptoms, both mentally and physically, that these patients could be facing on a daily basis. Mentally; Attention Deficit Disorder, memory loss, depression, easily agitated, irritability, unprovoked acts of aggression and violence, mania, psychoses, and mood swings. These are just the main mental struggles these patients possibly face suffering from TBI. Physically; Random loss of consciousness, disorientation, headaches, general pain, loss of balance, nausea and vomiting, blurred vision, ringing in the ears, bad taste in the mouth, sensitivity to light and sound, sleeping disorders, seizures, and loss of bladder and bowel control. With all of these symptoms these patients could be facing it is hard to think of the cocktail of medicine that these patients could be forced to take on a daily basis. Currently pharmaceutical companies try only to treat one symptom at a time, it makes for a bigger business and more profits, which leaves the patient, especially in this case, on the long road to recovery. Currently there are over thirty one different drugs being used just to treat the mental symptoms associated with TBI, with no one drug being able to treat multiple symptoms. So that means in most cases these patients are using at least two drugs on a trial basis at any given time, and if there is no change in symptoms they are simply switched to another medication until they achieve satisfactory effects. Just imagine the strain these patients are putting on their livers just to ease the symptoms of a Traumatic Brain Injury. And this is how it is for every patient, Doctors are still unable to come up with what works best for certain symptoms. With that uncertainty, patients become human test subjects, and each Doctor becomes a researcher. And in some cases of mild TBI, the medication that is prescribed has side effects that out weigh the patients initial symptoms. Why would anyone want to take medicine to stop vomiting if the outcome was constipation; and if someone has loss of balance, the medicine prescribed could make them extremely drowsy and have them sleep all day. The world of pharmaceuticals is expensive, representatives from these companies turn Doctors in to salesmen and spokesman. And the outcome is high cost prescriptions that cost the patient and the insurance companies millions of dollars every year, not to mention the huge amount of money that these companies receive from the government every year to research and produce new â€Å"miracle† drugs. Marijuana is made up of over 421 natural chemicals, of which over sixty are Cannabinoids†. (Richmond) Now as I mentioned earlier, we all have what is called a â€Å"Endocannabinoid System†, which regulates the â€Å"Cannabinoids† that are body naturally produces, that is right our bodies produce cannabis. The natural â€Å"Cannabinoids† in our body are used almost like our immune system. When there is something wrong in our bodies an alarm goes off, like when we get a cold, and our immune system rushes in and attacks that bad thing trying to kill it. Our â€Å"Endocannabinoid System† works almost the same way but it is able to fight many bad things at once, while also protecting our good cells, regulating proper brain function, and leveling our anxiety. Our â€Å"Endocannabinoids System† is very advanced, it is mostly gathered in the brain, but it spans through the liver, the bones and the nervous system. There are four main â€Å"Cannabinoids† that Doctors and Scientists have been able to focus on because of there over all medicinal uses. The first and most recognizable is Delta 9-Tetraydrocannabinol or THC. THC is a psychoactive component that mimics and enhances the bodies own Endocannabinoids System† (Richmond); which widely effects mood, appetite, sleep, and good cell protection. So for patients who have been diagnosed with TBI that have appetite loss, sleeping disorders, and mood swings, this component of marijuana can greatly help. The second main â€Å"Cannabinoid† is Cannabidol or CBD. à ¢â‚¬Å"CBD is a non-psychoactive component that enhances the sedative effect† (Richmond), which is good for patients diagnosed with TBI specifically dealing with insomnia. It also is an excellent anti-inflammatory, and bone growth stimulant. It has anti-diabetic and anti-bacterial capabilities, it also has anti-proliferative anti-cancerous capabilities, which means it helps to kill malignant tumors. It is a anti-spasmodic, which fights against muscle spasms and seizures. It is a neuroprotectant that helps regulate pain due to nerve damage, and it is a anti-psychotic, which helps in the fight against schizophrenia, these last three symptoms are directly associated with TBI. The third main â€Å"Cannabinoid† is Tetrahydrocannabivarin or THCV. THCV is a non-psychoactive component† (Richmond) that helps the other main â€Å"Cannabinoids† to be delivered faster, and to the correct spots where the â€Å"Endocannabinoid System† is possibly running low on ammunition. This component could extremely help patients diagnosed with TBI to get the correct â€Å"Cannabinoids† where they are needed quicker. But its downfall can be that if there is to much THCV in the certain strain of marijuana, that the effects of the other â€Å"Cannabinoids† will be short lived. It is also a very effective protective/preventive against type two diabetes. The last main â€Å"Cannabinoid† is Cannabichromene or CBC. â€Å"CBC is a psychoactive component that is a lower strength Cannabinoid† (Richmond) which is a excellent anti-depressant, anti-inflammatory, bone growth stimulant, that strongly prohibits tumor growth in Leukemia and breast cancer. There are few solid arguments against the evidence that has been shown in today's scientific research. The most popular argument about using marijuana medicinally is that when smoked we are actually introducing tar and other cancer causing agents into our body. But research shows that there is absolutely, one hundred percent, no evidence to support the theory of that. In fact it is quite the opposite. Also to help against that argument, there are now ways of ingesting marijuana without smoking it, it can be made into a butter and cooked into everyday foods. It can be made into a spray form that is applied directly under the tongue, and it also comes in a very low dosage pill form which is currently used only for nausea and vomiting associated with cancer and AIDS treatments. Another argument is that there is no way to regulate the dosage on marijuana because there is such a difference between strains of the marijuana plant, someone could overdose. Scientist have proven that if someone was to overdose on marijuana that the initial reaction the body will put off is to just go to sleep, that is it. The patient would just sleep it off as if it were a hangover, minus the headache in the morning. Also the longest possible side effects will last with marijuana is only a few hours, even if there is a overdose situation. In the thousands of recorded years of marijuana use, for recreation or medically, there has not been one recorded death, no one has died just from using marijuana. In fact scientists have come up with what it would take for a person to actually die from smoking marijuana. â€Å"A person would have to smoke 1500 pounds of marijuana in about fifteen minuets, and they would probably die of asphyxiation. † (Richmond) The only other argument that has any solid ground is that, at least in the United States, marijuana is still federally illegal to posses, cultivate, and distribute. And to that argument, the only thing I can say is that it will take the states themselves to stand up and take care of their own people, and provide them with the medicines they need, then eventually the federal government will have to fall in line. In seeing this evidence of marijuana and its scientifically proven medicinal uses, most people can not believe it is true. People cannot believe that there is one drug that is able to treat so many things at once. The truth is that for thousands of years our body has produced this drug on its own, and with the growth of humans not only intellectually but physically, and industrially. We have created a world that has taken our â€Å"Endocannabinoid System† and made it in some cases useless. We are introduced to so many toxins in our food, in our air, and even in our medications that we have not been able to upgrade our â€Å"Endocannabinoid System†, like we have with our immune system ,with the introduction of vaccines and certain pollutants. Thousands of years ago, before we created most of the toxins of today's world, our â€Å"Endocannabinoid System† was perfectly able to combat along with our immune system against most of the ailments and everyday aches and pains. We have not steadily increased our intake of â€Å"Cannabinoids† like we have with other things. We are still operating at a level suitable for life thousands of years ago. With the introduction of marijuana into our bodies we will not only be able to fight against these tough symptoms associated with TBI, but we could possibly be able to prevent and possibly cure diseases like cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, and many other everyday symptoms that we are all faced with in our life. Thesis Statement: marijuana could be the best treatment for the symptoms associated with Traumatic Brain Injury. OUTLINE I-TREAT THE SYMPTOMS; NOT THE INJURY A-Historical uses of marijuana B-Symptoms of TBI C-Current treatments of TBI D-How marijuana works E-The valued affects that marijuana can provide for persons diagnosed with TBI II-Historical uses of Marijuana A-Before 4000 BCE a-used as a food source B-First recorded medical use in 2737 BCE a-Emperor Shen-Nung of China makes suggested uses C-Marijuana in Europe around 500 BCE D-Marijuana in India around the Ninth Century E-U. S. Between 1850 and 1942 a-Marijuana is listed in U. S. Pharmacopeia F-2003, Canada become first country to legalize Marijuana for Medical use III-Symptoms of TBI A-Mental Symptoms B-Physical Symptoms IV-How Marijuana Works A-A brief description of the Endocannabinoid System B-The affects of marijuana on the Endocannabinoid System C-Four main Cannabinoids found in marijuana V-The valued affects that marijuana can provide for persons diagnosed with TBI A-The four main Cannabinoids and there healing powers VI-Arguments against the use of medical marijuana A-Marijuana smoke is bad for you B-No way to regulate dosage, possible overdose C-In the U. S. It is still federally illegal to posses, cultivate, and distribute VII-Marijuana and its overall affect on our body A-Marijuana is a great natural substance that cannot only heal us but prevent us from acquiring new ailments B-Marijuana is the best treatment for the symptoms associated with TBI REFERENCES Fogarty, A; Rowstone, P; Prestag, G; Crawford, J; Grierson, J; Kippax, S. â€Å"Marijuana as a Therapy for People Living with HIV/AIDS: Social and Health Aspects. AIDS Care February/19(2) 2007: 295-301 WEB August 15, 2011 www. cinahl. com/cgi-bin/refsvc? jid=914&accno=2009490500 Cotter, J. â€Å"Efficiency of Crude Marijuana and Synthetic Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol as Treatment for Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting: A Systematic Literature Review† Oncology Nursing Forum May/36(3) 2009: 345-352 WEB August 15, 20011 www. cinahl. com/cgi-bin/refsvc? jid=293&accno=2010421156 Chew, E; Zafonte, R. â€Å"Pharma cological Management of Neurobehavioral Disorders following Traumatic Brain Injury-A State-of-the-Art Review†¦ Research to Improve the Lives of Veterans: Approaches to Traumatic Brain Injury; Screening, Treatment, Management, and Rehabilitation in Arlington, Virginia, April 30 to May 2, 2008. † Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development June/46(6) 2009: 851-878 WEB August 15, 2011 www. cinahl. com/cgi-bin/refsvc? jid=1009&accno=2010544758 Sanna, E. J. Mind Altering Weed Broomall: Mason Crest, 2008 Print What if Cannabis could Cure Cancer. Dir. Lee Richmond. Lee Richmond Films LLC 2010 Film Medical Marijuana Marijuana is the most commonly used drug in the United States. However, it has singular distinction of being both a commonly used illegal substance and also a legally prescribed medical substance. Marijuana will always be used for private reasons or for medical purposes. Isn’t it a good thing that children not even four years of age are offered medical marijuana to cure diseases such as epilepsy? Seth Ammerman and Courtney Williams are writers for New’s Digital weekly. These articles were published in December of 2012. Courtney and Seth state their point of view about medical marijuana.Should medical marijuana be prescribed to children? People who are against medical marijuana say that there is not enough scientific research to support prescribing cannabis. Medical Marijuana is only legalized in some states because everyone has their own right to state their own opinion. Not every state agrees. In every cannabis plant there are cannabinoids, which are the THC and CBD ch emicals. THC is the chemical that drug cartels use illegally. Cannabidol is the chemical that is put into medical marijuana. Most dispensaries do not get tested for there cannabinoid content.The chemical is usually unknown. One of the major issues to prescribing a child medical marijuana is the cause of addiction. Marijuana can alter the brain into wanting the drug all the time. The younger a child starts to use cannabis, the child may never want to stop. (Ammerman 2) Of course there are side effects that may give you a negative feeling about using medical marijuana, such as anxiety, paranoia, and depression. While some people say what if. There are others who take a risk and take a chance. Parents who have chosen cannabis to treat their child have raised their eyebrows.A two year old had to go through 39 hours of surgery, while under anesthesia for 42 days. The doctor sent the child home on hospice and morphine. The child’s pediatrician suggested cannabis. The two year old i s now alive and free of cancer. (Williams 2) Marijuana contains of Vitamin C and Vitamin D. Vitamin F is also found in medical marijuana that contains a cannabinoid acid, which allows the cells in your brain to treat the disorder. (Williams 2) In my own opinion, I’m for medical cannabis. Children can always stop themselves from becoming addicted if they use the drug correctly and they do not abuse it.There are millions of people today using cannabis as medicine. While children are throwing a million and one pills down their throat and nothing is working. You can never doubt medical marijuana. Medical marijuana will be able to cure anything. Should medical marijuana be prescribed to children? Yes, it should. Medical marijuana is a touchy subject. There may not be enough scientific evidence, but who needs evidence when there is proof. All you have to do is take one look at a child who is free of cancer from using medical marijuana. That child is the proof.

Why There Would Be No People Without Plants Essay

Why There Would Be No People Without Plants - Essay Example Both the plants and human beings are said to be living in a balanced state together. The plants use the carbon dioxide released by the human beings to their advantage and release oxygen. The plants have leaves which have a structure known as stomata. This stomata is a microscopic structure which helps in taking carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen in the environment. Stomata ensure that the needs of the plants are fulfilled by taking in the necessary amount of gases and elements. These stomata are also referred to as the mouth of the plants because it helps in the intake of water, carbon dioxide and oxygen as necessary. It also helps in serving food to the plants by converting carbon dioxide into sugar via the process of photosynthesis. This essay would revolve around the significance of plants in the lives of the human beings (Smith 2010; Corner 1966). Plants undergo different processes to produce oxygen and these processes also help to make food for the plants themselves. While carbon dioxide is converted into sugar by the plants the process of transpiration also takes place simultaneously to release water vapors. Transpiration helps the plant to breathe in carbon dioxide because of the water that it releases. Light is also necessary for plants to produce food and oxygen. In the world today different gases exist together in the atmosphere including oxygen and carbon dioxide. It is necessary that these gases are balanced together so that human beings can exist. Plants balance these gases in the environment by the process of photosynthesis and respiration. In night when the plants do not have enough light they start producing carbon dioxide and take in oxygen. This helps to balance the gases in the environment and thus help the human beings to exist (Corner 1966). At many instances people tend to ask as to why do human beings really need oxygen for life. The answer for it can be found in the basic physiology of the human body. As human beings inhale

Modern Workplace Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Modern Workplace - Essay Example (Take from presentation and paper work on work stress and health. Scheduled in 2003 in Toronto) We have now more racially diverse work force, older and has larger number of women. More over the workforce is being reshaped by new ways of dependent work , contract labor, and employment practices. But we haven't understood yet that what will be the effect of this on the worker health and safety in today's changing workplace. Another major problem is sexual harassment. The women's lobby in Europe states that around 40 to 50% of the women have experienced some form of sexual harassment or unwanted sexual behavior in the workplace.( Taken from Dziech et al 1990, Boland 2002). In United States Of America around 15000 cases of sexual harrasment have been brought to U.S Equal Employment Opportunity Commision (EEOC) each year. Where as a study from Hong Kong states that one third of sexual harassment victims are males who are being targeted by female supervisors at the work place. The chair person of Equal Opportunity Commission, Jenny Watson, says that: ' it affects both women and men, causing stress, health problems and financial penalties when they leave their jobs to avoid it'. (Dziech, 1990) and (Dziech et al 1990, Boland 2002) Technology is the commanding force in todays work place , technologically literate people uses tools, materials, systems,

Business Plan Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Business Plan - Assignment Example 2. Statement of purpose. 3. Table of contents. I. The BusinessA. Description of business. B. Marketing. C. Competition in the market. D. Ways of operating procedures. E. Personnel. F. Insurance of Business. II. Financial Information A. Loan applications. B. Capital. C. Balance sheet. D. Breakeven analysisE. Pro-forma income projections (profit & loss statements)F. Pro-forma cash flowIII. Supporting Documents 1. Tax returns for last three years Personal financial statement. 2. A copy of franchise contract and all supporting documents provided by the franchiser for franchised business. Copies of the following: a. Lease or purchase agreement. b. Licenses and other legal documents. c. Resumes, that of all the principals. d. Letters of intent and other relevant material. Using The Plan A business plan is considered to be a tool comprising of three basic purposes, which are communication, management and planning. A business plans serves as a communication tool that helps in attracting investment capital, attainment of loans, hiring workers and convinces them to work for the company and importantly plays a part in attracting strategic alliances and business partners. A business plan is said to be successful if the outcome of the business is profitable, a business plan that cannot help in attain profits is said to be an incompetent business plan. A realistic approach is required at almost every stage of business and allows an entrepreneur to workout all the potential problems and all the alternatives before launching the actual business. A business plan helps as... This assignment answers on many common questions on the topic of developing a successful business plan. In any marketing sector business plan is considered to be very important and a thoughtful business plan cannot be overemphasises because much hinges on it: financial support, management of the available resources like operation and finances, credit from suppliers, promotion and marketing and last but not the least company’s goals and achievements. The researcher mostly focuses on the successful writing of the business plan. It includes many steps, most significant that were mentioned in the assignment are: Description of business, Marketing, Insurance of Business, Financial Information on loan applications and capital, Breakeven analysis, Pro-forma income projections (profit & loss statements) and Pro-forma cash flow. It is also important to prepare Supporting Documents, such as Tax returns for last three years, Personal financial statement and copy of franchise for franchis ed business. This assignment also describes ways of Using The Plan in real-life situations. Usually, a business plan is considered to be a tool comprising of three basic purposes, which are communication, management and planning. In conclusion, the researcher also states that having good financing is not enough in attaining profits and proper knowledge and planning are required to manage it well. These help in strengthening the management of financing and avoid common mistakes like miscalculating or underestimating the cost of yout future business.

Multicultural Education Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Multicultural Education - Research Paper Example This definition is a way of adding prospective and diverse material to make it more inclusive in traditionally underrepresented groups. Other people talk about classroom teaching styles or climatic issues that serve certain people while presenting obstacles for them. Still, others insist on education change as part of the larger societal transformation, in which humans closely explore and criticize the oppressive foundations of the society and how education serves in maintaining the status quo foundations, such as capitalism, white supremacy, exploitation and global socioeconomic situations. Despite the existence of multiple conceptualization of multicultural education, shared ideals provided a basis for its understanding. Some shared ideals focus on individual teachers or students while some are much more macro in scope and are about transformation. Multicultural education is a progressive approach that transforms education that holistically critiques and addresses current failings, short comings, and practices in education that are discriminatory (Nieto 67). It is brought up in ideals of, social justice, education equality and dedication to facilitating educational experiences, in which all students participate to their fullest potential as learners and as socially aware and active beings, nationally, locally and globally. Multicultural education agrees to the fact that that schooling is essential in laying the foundation for the transformation of society and elimination of injustice and oppression. Every child goes to school with an ethnic identity (Arel and Ruble 77). The ethnic identity might be conscious or unconscious. The identification must be recognized and respected by the teacher since it forms the basis for learning activities in the classroom. The point is to acknowledge differences rather than ignoring them. It is equally critical that the students recognize and show appreciation to their own ethnicity and also learn to appreciate those of the ot her students in the class. The recognition of individual ethnic identities forms the beginning point of learning (Draper 211). It is the connector of both student to student and teacher to student. Ethnicity appreciation is the basic building block in the learning process, which requires knowing where the student id relative to him/herself and content to be put under consideration. Ethnic identification forms are continual points of focus throughout the process of education and it is also the basis for developing the next level of identification. The next level understanding is the national identification. The national identity of a people requires their understanding and commitment to the democratic ideals such as human equality, justice and dignity. In the national identity of an individual, the focus is put on becoming effective members of the demographic society. The strong national identification of an individual is essential to his/ her development of global identification. Mu lticultural education has had five dimensions, which include; the knowledge construction process, content integration, prejudice reduction, empowering school culture and social structure and equality pedagogy. The dimensions are widely used by schools in conceptualizing and developing programs, course and projects in multicultural education. The dimensions are interrelated. Content integration explains the acts in which accidents examples and content from a variety of groups and cultures to demonstrate key

The Voting of Many But Not All Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

The Voting of Many But Not All - Essay Example After 9/11, the United States found itself at that point more than ever needing the elected officials in Washington to come together and work towards protecting the needs of the citizens at a time of the greatest uncertainty. With that being said, when it comes down for election time, the levels at which people come out and vote are not still at maximum capacity. As this is an election year, the statistics for this year will not be available until later on, but with all things considered, 2008 is appearing to be a year of stronger voting numbers. The question is how come voting numbers in recent elections have not been as strong as they may be now According to the US Census report from March 2006 in regards to the voting numbers for the 2004 general election, "In the Presidential election of November 2004, the sixty-four percent of voting-age citizens who voted was higher than the sixty percent who turned out in 2000. This was the highest turnout in a presidential election year since 1992, when sixty-eight percent of voting age citizens voted. The overall number of people who voted in the November 2004 election was 126 million, a record high for a presidential election year," Adding that, "Voter turnout increased by 15 million voters from the election in 2000. During this same 4-year period, the voting-age citizen population increased by eleven million people," ("Registration" p.1). In the same report, the Census shows that based on the 2004 reported totals, it appears that both males and females had roughly the same percentage of registration to vote. That would serve to put a hole in the idea that one gender votes more than the other, but not quite in that registering to vote, while it does show intent, cannot guarantee follow-through. The '06 report also details the statistics that native citizens are more inclined to vote than those who are foreigners, as well as that the older population does tend to vote at a higher rate than the younger population does. As it gets closer to election time, there are countless pushes made to get out the vote, especially the vote of the ever desirable 18-24 demographic. With organizations like Rock the Vote, young people are given countless opportunities to reach out and flex their civic muscle for the greater good. Their website states that, "Rock the Vote mobilizes young people to create positive social and political change in their lives and communities. The goal of Rock the Vote's media campaigns and street team activities is to increase youth voter turnout," ("Rock p.1). Assessing the information, the question could be asked that when it comes time to vote, do people even have all of the information which they need to make a responsible voting decision when they reach the polls The online website Wikipedia says that, "Modern political science has questioned whether average citizens have sufficient political information to cast meaningful votes," ("Voting" p.1). This is a question that in itself is the root of the final voting levels which are seen on Election Day. Many reasons can be given as to why this occurs. Voter apathy, lack of education, or even in the worst case scenario, voter intimidation which unfortunately has been accused of happening in recent years. A good example provided of how this can be true is the article by the website CommonDreams.org. In their article

Corrections Trend Evaluation (Indi) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Corrections Trend Evaluation (Indi) - Essay Example A new theory came up, which comprised of humane ways of dealing with law breakers. It was from 1787, that hard labor, total abstinence and solitary confinement started proving to be the most effective means in re- forming law breakers, thus the course of penal history was changed and the platform for operation of institutional and community based corrections systems born (Carlson & Garrett, 1999). However, the concept of solitary confinement in review of correctional practice reveals that the emphasis on the isolation, punishment and segregation of the offender from the community, is being outdated by emerging standards of human civilization. The prevailing innovations in correctional facilities are based on the recognition that they have been effective in the goals of justice and penalty, but failed in performing the function of rehabilitation and offender reform. New models of imprisonment and corrections are being searched for, in order to protect the fundamental principles of jus tice in a democratic society. Provision for genuine implementation of society’s power over the law breakers are also being looked into (Diiulio, 1990). The reasons for this extensive trend reversal are numerous. Philosophically, the return to the simple ways regarding disciplinary action against law breakers is politically attractive, thus gaining rapid recognition. Within and without the criminal justice system, there is a large number of people who prefer the uncomplicated processes of justice. If you look at our institutions and communities from a practical perspective, you will clearly see that the prevailing criminal justice system has yielded very poor results. The rate which prisoners return to institutions due to new convictions is alarmingly high. It is the inability of the prevailing criminal justice system to curb crime and the failure of correctional facilities to correct, that has led to the failure of the corrections. The main inhibitor however is the way in whi ch the criminal justice system has been perceived in its work and mission. The definition of correction in a societal view point does not state nor imply what corrections should try to achieve. Correction institutions have many purposes, rehabilitation being only one. Although if the correctional processes were truly rehabilitative, then it should not be restricted to the convicted individual, but rather be extended to all who need them. Corrections can contribute more than it does to crime reduction, but it is sad to note the fact that in the prevailing era, the pursuit of a single purpose for corrections be it rehabilitation or punishment, is doomed to failure (Harnsberger, 2011). It is natural for human beings to resist coercion. It is evident in our institutions and communities that correctional coercion success rate is basically none existent. We can observe the concept of total system planning, which is a process that comes up with feedback from specific service area after ana lyzing and defining its problems. The total system planning process describes the mode and level of interactions between activities of one system like corrections, and those of others like law enforcement or courts. A change in any single component however small it may be, will ripple through and affect all the other components. When this concept example and consideration is applied to

Psychodrama Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Psychodrama - Essay Example 9). Through this, it can be said that psychodrama is deeply rooted in group therapy as the dramatic act involves the support of group members (Haworth, 1998, p. 15). It is a form of therapy that, through the undelrying concept of ‘what if’, aims to for the individual to realize what his past mistakes are, his attitude problems and develop and integrate solutions to these problems in real life (Djuric, Tomić and Veljković, 2006, p. 9). â€Å"Psychodrama not only explores one’s unspoken thoughts and feelings, but also the situations that never really happened but could have, the encounters of those who are really absent, the projections for the future, and different perceptions of the past and present† (Djuric, Tomić and Veljković, 2006, p. 9). To examine the roots of psychodrama is to examine the roots of Jacob L. Moreno, MD. He is the father of psychodrama in that he developed the method â€Å"along with sociometry, socio drama and group psychotherapy†¦ to tackle the problems of the world, of society and of human interactions rather just the individual† (Haworth, 1998, p. 16). Here, it can be seen how Moreno visualized psychodrama as a part of a triadic system in that each is linked with the other (Lipman, 2003, p. 3). Moreno lived during the First World War, at a time when people are beginning to take serious notice of the revolutionary ideas of Karl Marx and Sigmund Freud and hence, his experiences urged him to make the world a better place and this started with addressing the problems and issues of individuals (Haworth, 1998, p. 16). Aside from the influence of the times, Moreno was also inspired by Socrates in that he used Socrates’ method of observing and talking to ordinary citizens in order to a rrive at the meaning of self when he first conceived of psychodrama (Haworth, 1998, p. 17). For him, â€Å"the self emerges from the roles we play† (Psychodramatic

Will business save the planet Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3250 words

Will business save the planet - Essay Example In the recent decade, energy requirements have risen considerably (Economic Intelligence Unit). More important is the conservation of energy to secure the safety and energy sustainability of its future generation. This entails utilizing renewable energy sources that do not contribute to pollution (reasons for using renewable resources). Complete utilization of renewable energy sources, as opposed to non-renewable sources will ensure pollution emissions are reduced to minimum levels thereby conserving the ozone layer (HAVC System). One of the development objectives of China is to foster the growth of wind and solar companies (ACORE). Non-renewable energy is bound to get depleted in the near future. Investing in the non-renewable energy is an appropriate method to alleviate the risk of running out of non-renewable energy. Hence China has secured its place as the world leader in growing its green energy. Approximately a quarter of the world green energy is found in China. Between 2005 a nd 2010, wind turbines have been constructed at a fast rate in China (Economic Intelligence Unit). China has established itself as an â€Å"economic superpower† and is also striving to be the world leader in utilizing green energy. China is no doubt becoming the world’s leader in the exploitation of green energy sources. While, the USA, which is the current leader in green energy investment, is losing momentum in investing in green energy, China is making big strides in exploiting green energy. Hence China is bound to be ranked number one in tapping and exploiting green energy resources. These vibrant efforts made by China have caught the attention of investors like Bloomerg New Energy Finance and Germany among other investors, which contribute to China’s green energy capital (Silverstein 1). China’s efforts to strive to be a leader in utilizing green energy have been become apparent to international stakeholders who can assist China to achieve its energy goals. This assistance could be in the form of financial support or technological research on how to convert green energy to a usable form. In a bid to further its green energy agenda, China is getting rid of companies that utilize non-renewable energy resources. Between 2005 and 2010, China decommissioned power companies that were inefficient in terms of power consumption and this trend is also set to continue. China is also abolishing those companies that contribute to air pollutant emissions (â€Å"China’s action on climate change,† 1). Abolishing companies that utilize non-renewable energy sources is a sure way to minimize pollution emissions and attain total green energy dependence. Among the green energy conversion technologies that have gained the most recognition in terms of financing include solar power technologies with the top markets being China, Europe and the United States. However, the United States is losing its grip as the world leader in attracting i nvestments for green energy due to lack of governmental commitment in green energy efforts (Silverstein 1). This shows that China is committed to converting to green energy exploitation. This is shown by the enormous financial investments it is the direction towards green energy. Such is the commitment that will set at the top of the list of the world’s leaders in green energy investment. Other countries that have shown considerable efforts in investing in green energy include Italy, Brazil and India (Silverstein 1). The future of Green Energy in China In China’s 12th 5 year plan, the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions was given priority, showing China’s change in attitude towards green ene

Jane Ms Lynch Essay Example for Free

Jane Ms Lynch Essay Jane Ms. Lynch was born and raised in Dolton, Illinois, the daughter of a housewife mother and a banker father. She was raised in an Irish Catholic family and attended Thornridge High School. She received her bachelor’s degree in theatre from Illinois State University and her MFA from Cornell University, also in theatre. She lived in Chelsea for a year and a half. Ms. Lynch began her career in the theatre but quickly moved on to TV. She starred with MDs, and has made guest appearances in numerous television series, including L.   A. Law, Judging Amy, The West Wing, 7th Heaven, Friends, Felicity, Arrested Development, the cult hit Lovespring International, Two and a Half Men, Weeds, Boston Legal, The L Word, Help Me Help You, Gilmore Girls, The New Adventures of Old Christine, Psych, Monk and Party Down, among others. She also appeared in the crime drama Criminal Minds as Spencer Reid’s schizophrenic mother. As of 2009, Ms. Lynch currently appears on the Fox series Glee. GLEE is a musical comedy-drama television series that airs on Fox. It focuses on a high school show choir (a modern GLEE club) called â€Å"New Directions,† at the fictional William McKinley High School in Lima, Ohio. Ms. Lynch has won glowing reviews for her role as the aggressive cheerleading coach Sue Sylvester. Sue is part of the William McKinley High School staff and is the coach of the cheerleading squad, the â€Å"Cheerios†. She detests the Glee Club and their teacher, and attempts to bring them down at any cost. She is jealous of the GLEE club’s talent and also holds grudges to unhealthy, almost super-villain levels, particularly her desire to destroy the Glee Club for getting money that had once been promised to her â€Å"Cheerios†. However, Sue is not completely without her soft-side. She is very loving towards her sister Jean, who suffers from Down Syndrome and who Sue visits as often as she can. This love for her sister caused Sue to donate money to the school to help disabled kids, and to allow a student with Down Syndrome to join the â€Å"Cheerios†. Mary McNamara of the LA Times wrote, â€Å"Ms. Lynch alone makes GLEE worth watching. † On August 29, 2010, Ms. Lynch won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress – Comedy Series. Ms. Lynch recently helped unveil a wax figure of her famous character Sue Sylvester from the Fox hit series at Madame Tussaud’s in Hollywood. While Ms. Lynch commented that it was an amazing honor, she also compared the experience to seeing herself in a coffin.

How Is Readability Important To Writability?

How Is Readability Important To Writability? User-defined operator overloading can harm the readability of a program if the user doesnt take into account differences in operands and possible confusion between the function of an operator. Consider if a user defined to mean the logical AND statement in Boolean logic. Someone else might believe to be the address of a variable such as the case in a language like C. It would make the code difficult to understand for a reader as well as make it difficult for a compiler to catch potential errors when the two functions of the get mixed up. What is aliasing? Aliasing is having two or more distinct names that can be used to access the same memory cell. It is useful in that it allows a programmer more freedom to access data but it also can be dangerous in that aliasing can lead to a lot of errors especially if a programmer doesnt do a good job of keeping track of these names or pointers to a memory cells. How is readability important to writability? Readability is important to writability because if a programming language is difficult to read and understand then it can be difficult for a programmer to create new code that might need to interact or use other code. Often times code needs to be modified and if a program is difficult to read then it is difficult to add new code to it. What are the three fundamental features of an object-oriented programming language? The three fundamental features of object-oriented programming are encapsulation, inheritance and polymorphism. Encapsulation promotes the concept of information hiding, which is useful because it protects information from being changed or altered by other parts of a program. Inheritance allows one to reuse existing software so it allows significant improvement in productivity. Polymorphism allows data types and function to belong to more generic classes thus allowing for different data types to be processed in a uniform manner. What are three general methods of implementing a programming language? One method is compiler implementation in which programs are translated into machine language. Another method is called pure interpretation in which programs are interpreted by an interpreter. A third implementation method is called a hybrid implementation in which high-level language programs and translated to an intermediate language for easier interpretation. What arguments can you make for the idea of a single language for all programming domains? If there is only a single language for all programming domains this simplifies code and increases readability because everyone would learn the same language and have a common understanding of symbols and functions. There are no additional costs of having to train programmers in multiple languages and software would be easier to integrate since everything would be written in the same language. What arguments can you make against the idea of a single language for all programming domains? Different programming languages have different strengths and weaknesses and using a single language for all programming domains can make things more difficult especially when programming in a different language might be easier and more suitable. For example a functional programming language would be ideal for applying functions to given parameters but not a very good way of representing objects in the real world as opposed to object oriented programming. Some programs are more reliable in that they catch errors but at the cost of execution time and run time speed. Others run quickly and efficiently but are more prone to errors. Having a choice of languages makes accomplishing a certain task easier. What common programming language statement, in your opinion, is most detrimental to readability? One of the most common programming language statements that is detrimental to readability is the conditional statement such as an if, while, etcà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ especially if it involves compound statements and or nested conditionals. I believe this is detrimental because often times conditional statements involve the reader of a code having to scroll up and down to follow what goes next. This is especially true with older languages that use the goto statement or ones that use the break command to leap out of a given conditional statement to a line further down or up. I personally find it even more difficult with nested loop statements because one has to recognize layers of conditionals and even more so in languages like C or Java that use brace marks to end compound statements. Sometimes a reader will forget which loop is running or will have a difficult time debugging when forgets to use a brace mark and the conditional statements overlap. Java uses a right brace to mark the end of all compound statements. What are the arguments for and against this design? One of the arguments for the usage of a right brace mark to end all compound statements is that it keep the syntax simple for compound statements and it saves a programmer time for not having to write extra characters to denote the end of a compound statement. One of the arguments against using braces to end all compound statements in Java is that its more detrimental to readability. Its more difficult to determine which different compound statement (while loop, for loop, à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦) is ending if you use a right brace mark to end all of those statements. This can be especially troublesome if you use many different types of multiple compound statements. Languages like Ada dont use right brace marks to end compound statements and that language has greater readability in this case. For example in Ada end if determines the ending of an if statement, and end loop determines the end of a loop. Many languages distinguish between uppercase and lowercase letters in user-defined names. What are the pros and cons of this design decision? One of the arguments in favor of distinguishing between upper and lowercase letters in user-defined names is that it helps maintain code readability. For example if POINTER, Pointer, and pointer were distinct names that denoted different entities, then it might confuse someone reading the code. One of the cons of languages distinguishing between uppercase and lowercase letters is that it could hurt writability by making it harder for a programmer to code. For example if a programmer used MyString as a user name, then that programmer would have to remember that special case usage since Mystring, and mystring would not be recognized. 10) What are the arguments for writing efficient programs even though hardware is relatively inexpensive? As hardware costs decreased the major cost of computing shifted to programmer costs in software. Programs were being used more and more for larger and more complex tasks and thus having efficiently written programs saved on computing costs. Companies found out that programming language deficiencies such as incomplete type checking and poorly designed control statements led to lower programmer productivity. Write an evaluation of some programming language you know, using the criteria described in this chapter. Readability In terms of readability, Java has some issues with simplicity with respect to readability. There is feature multiplicity in Java as shown in the textbook with the example of count = count + 1, count++, count +=1 and ++count being 4 different ways to increment an integer by 1. Another problem is operator overloading since java allows some operators such as the + sign to add integers, floats, and other number types. One of the good things about Javas overall simplicity is that the basic constructs follows that of the C and C++ family, thus its relatively similar for people who know those languages. Control statements in java have higher readability than old BASIC and Fortran programs because they can use more complex conditionals like for loops. There is no need for goto statements that have the reader leaping to other lines of code that could be far away or out of order. However, the use of braces to designate the starting and stopping points of all compound statements can lead to som e confusion. Java has 8 primitive data types: Boolean, char, byte, short, int, long, float and double and has no pointer types. Data types and structures can be specified to a high degree. Writablity Java has a fair bit of orthogonality in that its primitive constructs can be used in various different ways. Because Java is an imperative language that supports object oriented programming, it can be fairly complex. Java supports data abstraction so it would be easier to create a binary tree in java with its dynamic storage and pointers than in a language like Fortran 77. Java also has a for statement which is easier than using a typical while statement. Java is a high level programming language so specifying details like memory allocation are unnecessary due to javas dynamic array system. Reliablity Java uses a type checker at compile time which virtually eliminates most of the type errors during run time. Its much improved over a program like C especially with respect to allocation and de-allocation of memory. It might be a little more cumbersome to get around the errors of Java but this insures that programmers dont screw up the code and possibly computer like what could happen with an inexperienced programmer in C. Java also has extensive exception handling and can check for and throw for several different documented exceptions. Java restricts the amount of aliasing from its predecessor C to allow for greater reliability. With respect to cost, Java has a fairly extensive library so it can be difficult for people to learn all the aspects of the language. Writing a simple program in Java is rather difficult due to the declaration of the public class and the execution statement public static void main (String[] args) {à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦}. However Javas support of encapsulation allo ws multiple programmers working on a project to collaborate without messing up each others code. Different parts can be designated as public, private, protectedà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ and thus access can be regulated. Java also has a free complier/interpreter system thus it is more widely used than an expensive compiler. Some programming languages, for example, Pascal have used the semicolon to separate statements, while Java uses it to terminate statement. Which of these, in your opinion, is most natural and least likely to result in syntax errors? Support your answer. Personally I feel that Pascals usage of the semicolon to separate statements is rather counterintuitive but possibly its because I learned the usage of the semicolon to terminate statements in C before I learned Pascal. In Pascal one needs to look ahead and identify whether or not the next line is a statement before putting a semicolon. This can be a hassle because requires a programmer to go back and change code before adding new code. For example if use had a program in Pascal that had a simple if statement If x = 0 then Answer:=1; Then in Pascal if you wanted to add an else clause you would have to go back and delete the semicolon because an else clause is not considered a new statement. If x = 0 then Answer:=1 Else Answer:=2; Some Pascal compilers will catch wrongly placed semicolons and declare them as errors. It also means that a programmer needs to be able to recognize what is and what is not a statement thus it hurts writablity. Of course, other requirements in Java such as the usage of parenthesis around the conditional or the usage of braces around the compound statements can also be confusing. However I think its easier to remember not to put a semi-colon after a right brace than it is to have to watch out for not putting it after each statement. The relative consistency of Java is more intuitive than the structure of Pascal.

Strategic Audit Of Carnival Corporation

Strategic Audit Of Carnival Corporation Carnival Corporation plc is a global cruise company, with a portfolio of 12 brands. It is one of the leading cruise operators in both North America and Europe. The company primarily operates in the US, the UK, Continental Europe and Canada. The company recorded revenues of $11,839 million during the fiscal year ended November 2006, an increase of 6.7% over 2005. The operating profit of the company was $2,613 million during fiscal year 2006, a decrease of 1% as compared to 2005. The net profit was $2,279 million in fiscal year 2006, an increase of 1.2% over 2005. Carnivals mission statements reads, Our mission is to deliver exceptional vacation experiences through the worlds best-known cruise brands that cater to a variety of different lifestyles and budgets, all at an outstanding value unrivaled on land or at sea. To be the leading cruise operator in all segments entered and to maintain the most up-to-date fleet of cruise ships in the world To develop new cruise segments and innovative cruise packages to reach a larger number of potential and past cruisers Employ sophisticated promotional efforts to achieve a greater awareness by the public concerning the availability and affordability of cruise travel Attract the first-time and younger cruisers (Carnival), experienced cruisers (Holland America), upscale cruisers (Seaborne), and cruisers wanting a sailing vacation (Windstar) Promote cruises as an alternative to land-based vacations Provide a variety of activities as well as ports of call Be innovative in all respects of operations of the ship 3. Strategies: Global growth through concentric diversification via acquisition of cruise lines and building new ships, particularly in the Asia and European markets. High quality of the service towards the customer resulting in high customer satisfaction, leading to new and repeat customers. Economies of scale by increasing the size of the company resulting in the lowest break-even point in the cruise industry. Horizontal growth financed through internal funds. 4. Policies: Sophisticated promotional efforts to gain loyalty from former customers and new customers Remodel its ships, varying offered activities, and being innovative through RD in all aspects of ship operations. Strategic Managers Board of Directors Although information is not available about most of the board members, we do know that at least two members of top management are also insiders on the Board: Micky Arison (Chairman of the Board) and Howard Frank (Vice Chairman). The stock of Carnival Corporation is publicly traded and at least 20% of privately held stock of the Arison family has been sold to fund expansion. Arison probably controls the board. Top Management Members of top management are as follows: Micky Arison, Chairman, CEO, (Carnival Corporation) Robert Dickinson, President and COO (Carnival Cruise Lines) Kirk Lanterman, President and CEO (Holland America Lines) Howard Frank, Vice Chairman and COO (Carnival Corporation) Gerald Cahill, Senior VP Finance and CFO (Carnival Corporation) Lowell Zemnick, VP Treasurer (Carnival Corporation) Peter T. McHugh, President and COO (Holland America Lines) Meshulam Zonis, Senior VP of Operations (Carnival Corporation) Carnival Corporation is a family tradition passed down from Ted Arison (founder) to his son Micky (current CEO and Chairman). Micky Arison and Bob Dickinson seem to be the main driving force behind strategic decisions in the company. III. EXTERNAL ENVIRONMENT (EFAS Table; see Exhibit 1) A. Natural Environment Environmental groups Stringent regulations on ships Environmental and health and safety regulations Could increase costs of compliance Instituted Safety and Environment position EPA studies on waste water Annual award program Financially supporting ocean conservation groups B. Societal Environment 1. Economic Unstable economy 2. Technological Computer and information technology extremely important 3. Political-Legal Increased regulations are issued by the Coast Guard, U.S. Department of Health and Federal Maritime Commission. 4. Sociocultural: Growth is slowing in the cruise travel industry (2% from 1991 1995). It is also estimated that only 5-7% of the North American market has ever taken a cruise. Two-income families have more disposable income to apply towards vacations. The aging of America means more potential customers for the Holland America Line, which serves an older, more established clientele. Increased emphasis on family vacations and a growing family cruise segment. Periodic political tensions which occur in cruise an area (such as the Mideast or Mediterranean) causes cruise competition to intensify in safe waters until the tensions cease. B. Task Environment Threat of new entrants is low, given the recent rash of cruise line failures, mergers, and buyouts. The competitive nature of the industry makes it unattractive to enter, and high start-up costs serve as a barrier to entry. Rivalry between competitors is high, with six major competitors (including Princess and Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines) and eight minor competitors. With berth capacity increasing, rivalry may grow more intense if demand doesnt rebound. Bargaining power of suppliers (shipbuilders) is moderate since shipbuilding is a very money- and time-intensive process. If a shipbuilder cant deliver on a contract, Carnival cant easily obtain a replacement ship. Bargaining power of customers may grow in the future due to the combination of increased berth capacity and decreased demand. The combination of these factors would lead cruise operators to offer deep discounts, and customers would have more affordable options in choosing the cruise they want. Threat of substitutes is escalating with the introduction of all-inclusive combination cruise/land packages such as Disneys Big Red Boat vacations. Other stakeholders such as the American Maritime Union pose a threat, with their continued charges against Carnival (and other operators) concerning exploitation of cruise employees. IV. INTERNAL ENVIRONMENT (IFAS see Exhibit 2) A. Corporate Structure Carnival Corporation serves major market segments through Carnival, Holland America, and Seaborne (joint venture). Decision-making is centralized, with top management and the Board of Directors controlling all strategic decisions. The corporation attempts to reduce routine decision-making by standardizing shipboard operations when possible. B. Corporate Culture Carnival Corporations culture seems to internalize the concept of providing guests with the highest service standards while keeping a firm grip on operating costs. There is significant corporate pride regarding Carnivals position as the leader and innovator in the cruise industry. C. Corporate Resources 1. Marketing Carnival Corporations main marketing objective is to hold on to its 44% market share in the cruise industry. It plans to retain the leadership position through aggressive promotional campaigns by gaining loyalty from former cruisers and by being innovative in shipboard activities and operations. Carnivals cruise product is well-defined and positioned to serve three major markets: contemporary, premium, and luxury. Carnival Cruise Lines (contemporary) targets young and first-time cruisers with moderately priced packages which include airfare and a variety of shipboard amenities. Prices are competitive with those of other similar cruise and land-based packages. The Fun Ship cruise theme markets the ship itself as the primary vacation destination, with ports-of-call being of secondary importance. Holland America Lines (premium) is positioned to attract higher income travelers with cruise prices averaging 25-35% higher than Carnival Cruises. HAL serves an older, more established clientele. Carnival provides additional vacation opportunities through Westmark Hotels, Westours, Gray Line Tours, and the McKinley Explorer railroad coaches in Alaska. These auxiliary tours and hotels are marketed primarily to satisfy growing demand for Alaskan land vacations in conjunction with Carnivals Alaskan cruises. Seaborne serves the luxury market with South American, Mediterranean, Southeast Asian, and Baltic cruise destinations. Seaborne serves very wealthy clientele with worldwide cruises up to 98 days duration. Windstar Sail Cruises serves a specialty cruise niche with ships that have small capacity (fewer than 150 guests) and can approach smaller, less traveled ports-of-call. Carnival Corp. was the first cruise operator to advertise on television. Carnival books 99% of its cruises through travel agents and has implemented an incentive program to reward travel agents who suggest a Carnival cruise before other vacations. 2. Finance Currently Carnival Corporations primary financial consideration is the control of costs in order to maintain a healthy profit margin (greater than 20%). Another main concern is the current expansion plan funded by internal growth. The financial ratios show several areas that need to be addressed in the company. Carnival has very low liquid assets, as evidenced by the low current and quick ratio, and has negative working capital, which may cause creditors to doubt whether Carnival can meet its current obligations. Overall, the liquidity of the company is very poor but may be common to the industry since so much money is tied up in the fixed assets portion of the balance sheets. In other areas, Carnival is doing much better with a profit margin of 22%, ROI of 11%, and ROE of 19%. The company isnt overburdened by debt and has two revolving credit agreements for a total of $1 billion, $815 million of which is still available for the refurbishing and building of ships. In the past five years the corporation has experienced losses due to the discontinuation of the Fiestamarina Line and two of its hotels. Carnival recently purchased $101 million of secured notes issued by Kloster Cruise Lid. (Norwegian Cruise Lines). Kloster has experienced financial difficulties, and if the company fails, Carnival will be in position to claim a portion of Klosters assets. A financial strength of Carnival Corp. is that it is registered as a Controlled Foreign Corporation and thus is exempt from U.S. Federal income taxes at the corporate level. 3. Research and Development Carnival relies on RD on the part of its shipbuilders to produce faster, more fuel efficient, technologically advanced ships. Carnival also uses service RD to implement and improve shipboard entertainment and activities to serve the disparate needs of the three market segments they serve. 4. Operations Main operations consist of the twelve cruise lines and the auxiliary tours and hotels mentioned in the analysis of marketing. The company expects to take delivery of ten new ships (including several superliners) in the next four years; seven for the Carnival Line, two for the Holland America Line, and one for Windstar. These ships will result in a 20,484 passenger increase over Carnival Corp.s current capacity and cost $3.3 billion. This expansion will enable Carnival to stay competitive with its rivals, who are also expanding, but if future demand remains depressed, the extra capacity could negatively affect future profitability. The major strength of Carnivals operations is that they are very efficient; it has the lowest break-even point of any organization in the cruise industry. It has also been able to achieve significant economies of scale by standardizing layout and shipboard operations on its ships. Carnivals fixed costs make up 33% of the companys operating expenses, and they cant be reduced in proportion to decreases in passenger loads and revenues. Major variable costs as a percent of operating expense are as follows: airfare (25-30%), travel agent fees (10%), and labor (13-15%). Shipboard operations are very labor-intensive, which results in high labor costs. Carnival Corporations cruises are also subject to general threats in the environment such as political conflicts and natural disasters in areas where they cruise. Human Resource Management Cruises are labor-intensive, requiring extensive screening and hiring of employees. Employees work on contracts of 3-9 months and are recruited mostly from third-world countries. Carnival has employees from 51 nations Carnival has been cited by the American Maritime Union for exploitation of employees, but the average employment period is approximately eight years, and supply exceeds demand for all cruise employee positions. Information Systems Although it is not mentioned in the case, Carnival Corporations information system is assumed to be quite extensive, in order to record passenger reservations taken from hundreds of travel agents and to orchestrate the daily operations of this large company. The information system also appears to give very detailed breakdowns of expenses between cruise divisions and within cost categories. Analysis of Strategic Factors Situational Analysis (SWOT) (SFAS Matrix; see Exhibit 3) 1. Strengths Largest cruise operator Strong brand portfolio Strong geographic presence 2. Weakness High debt burden in FY 2006 3. Opportunities Expansion of cruise operations growing travel and tourism in China reopening of cruise centers 4. Threats Economic slowdown in the US Increased minimum wages in the US Intense Competition VI. Strategic Alternatives and Recommended Strategy A. Strategic Alternatives 1. Growth Strategies: Move more aggressively into the family cruise market segment. Pros: Taps a new, growing market with fewer competitors than the traditional cruise industry. It allows alternate use of ships that arent being used if future demand remains depressed. This strategy allows Carnival to keep ahead of its competitors, and the companys low break-even point puts it at an advantage over competitors who are pursuing a similar expansion plan. Pursuing moderate expansion allows Carnival to maintain its position as the market leader. This seems to be the strategy that the company wants to pursue, and management has been successful in bucking negative industry trends in the past. Cons: This strategy requires a new way of thinking to be successful in satisfying family needs. In addition, a lower price may be necessary to attract families who are looking for affordable vacations. Competitor Disney is a major force in the vacation industry. If demand doesnt rebound, the industry may face price wars and deep discounts. This effect will be compounded by Carnivals inability to cut fixed costs in the face of decreasing demand, and profitability may be sharply reduced. 2. Pause Strategy: Considering the possibility of decreased demand and the uncertainty of future demand, it may be prudent to delay contracting for any additional ships until it is apparent whether cruise demand will rebound. Pros: The company wouldnt be tying up capital in additional ships when demand may not merit it. This would allow the company to concentrate on refining its current operations and marketing strategy. It may also lead to an improvement in the liquidity ratios. Cons: If demand does rebound and Carnival hasnt ordered additional ships, there will be a time lag until it receives new ships. In addition, if Carnivals competitors continue expansion, then the company runs the risk of losing its leadership position in the industry. 3. Retrenchment Strategy: Carnival currently isnt in a position where retrenchment is recommended. However, if demand doesnt rebound, retrenchment could become a necessity in the future. B. Recommended Strategy Recommend that the company continue to pursue its current growth plan. This strategy allows Carnival to stay current with its competitors. If demand remains depressed in future years, there will still be ample time for Carnival to reassess its corporate strategy as long as they dont delay indefinitely. IMPLEMENTATION The recommended strategy doesnt require any extensive changes in current programs. Top management should closely monitor the industry and general economic trends to determine whether demand will rebound as expected. If not, management should formulate alternate strategies that adjust to these conditions. EVALUATION CONTROL Carnivals management needs to address the poor state of the companys working capital and current ratio. These are of concern since a low current ratio may cause the company to default on certain debt covenants. However, the state of the working capital and current ratio may be normal when compared with industry standards, since a large portion of the balance sheet assets is concentrated in fixed assets. The companys information systems are sufficient to evaluate the performance of the recommended strategy and to separate costs associated with the expansion. Carefully monitors future demand and makes necessary adjustments, I think it is in a good position to maintain its leadership position in the industry and continue to be financially successful. IX. EFAS, IFAS, and SFAS EXHIBITS Exhibit 1 EFAS (External Factor Analysis Summary) Key External Factors Weight Rating Weighted Score Comments Opportunities Only 5-7% of N. American market has cruised .12 5 .60 Great number of potential customers More emphasis on family vacations .08 3 .24 Developing market segment Two-income family more disposable income .08 3 .24 Cruises are an option Changing industry .13 4 .42 Threats 000000.0000 00000 Slowing growth in the cruise industry .10 5 .50 2% in 1991-1995 Very competitive industry .20 4 .80 Six major competitors Demographic changes .08 4 .32 Aging population Strong economic conditions .15 5 .75 Threat of substitutes .06 3 .18 air, car TOTAL SCORES 1.00 4.05 IX. IFAS, EFAS, and SFAS EXHIBITS Exhibit 2 IFAS (Internal Factor Analysis Summary) Key Internal Factors Weight Rating Weighted Score Comments New larger ships .05 4 .20 Future over capacity 104% capacity .10 4 .50 #1 Fun Ship cruise theme .05 4 .20 Effective Clients only tap 5% .05 4 .20 Hard to get rest Strong management team .15 5 .75 Best in industry Marketing/travel agents .12 5 .60 strong team Corporate culture .10 5 .50 Strong Acquisitions concentric diversification .14 4 .56 Great acquisition HRM exploiting employees .05 4 .20 Stay 8 years Financially strong .10 4 .40 Low B/E and cash for new ships Market share 26% .10 5 .50 #1 Healthy profit margins .04 4 .16 TOTAL SCORES 1.05 4.77 IX. SFAS, EFAS, and IFAS EXHIBITS Exhibit 3 SFAS (Strategic Factor Analysis Summary) Key Strategic Factors Weight Rating Weighted Score Duration S I L Comments Only 5-7% of Americans have taken a cruise .15 4 .60 X Potential customers Growing family vacation market segment .10 3 .30 X Potential customers Very competitive industry .15 4 .60 X Six competitors Escalating threat of substitutes .10 3 .30 X Disney 26% market share .15 5 .75 X Industry leader Lowest break-even point .15 4 .60 X Efficient High fixed costs .10 4 .40 X Standardization Poor liquidity ratios .10 2 .20 X Cash-poor TOTAL SCORES 1.00 3.75

Essay on Satire and Black Humor in Catch-22 -- Catch-22 Essays

Satire and Black Humor in Catch-22      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The only thing going on was a war, and no one seemed to notice but Yossarian and Dunbar. Yossarian is one of the few "normal" characters found in the books, or at least he thinks he is. As the story progresses, it appears that no one is "normal." Values either no longer apply, or do in reverse. In this backwards world of Catch-22, where everyone is crazy, Heller uses black humor and satire to make light of an otherwise dismal situation.    Satire in the book mainly attacks three general things: senior military officers, professional and business interests, and society's remarkable reliance on forms, papers, rules and regulations. The senior officers are generally trying to intimidate and persecute the soldiers, most obviously by raising the number of missions, endangering the men's lives even more (Young 2). They are very selfish and have warped ideas about what they can do and what they can make the squadron do. They only do what they have been told to do, and have very few if any original thoughts. General Dreedle, for example, tries to have Danby shot for moaning during a mission briefing while in his presence. Another example of their warped beliefs is when Lieutenant Schisskopf comes up with the idea that they could stick pegs into each man's thighs and hook them together with copper wire so that the men would march better. Captain Black starts the Loyalty Oath Crusade, in which the men have to sign loyalty oaths for practically every task they need to perform throughout the day. They have to sign oaths to get their map cases, obtaining flak suits, being driven to their planes, and even eat or get their hair cut. His theory is that the more loyalty oaths the men sign, th... ...found in all parts of the book, they play crucial roles in making Catch-22 more enjoyable to read, and depicting the conditions felt by soldiers. Without the humor, it seems like a very disturbing and depressing tale. The characters are crazy, but we do get a good laugh at their expense. Catch-22 can be interpreted in many different ways though. What may be humorous to one person may be disturbing to another. Like any book, there is no wrong interpretation.    Works Cited Heller, Joseph. Catch 22. New York: Simon & Schuster Inc., 1989. Merrill, Robert. Joseph Heller. Boston: Twayne Publishers, 1987. Young, Robert M. "Deadly Unconscious Logics in Joseph Heller's Catch-22."   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   <http://www.human-nature.com/rmyoung/papers/des3.html> Magill, Frank N. "Catch-22." Masterplots. Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Salem Press, 1976.      

michael jordan Essay -- essays research papers fc

Michael Jordan was one of five children born to James and Delores Jordan. He was born February 17, 1963 in Brooklyn. His parents felt that the streets of Brooklyn were unsafe to raise a young family. So instead of trying to endure the streets of Brooklyn, the Jordan family moved to Wilmington, North Carolina. Michael’s father, James, got a job in Wilmington as a mechanic and his mother Delores got a job as a teller at United Carolina Bank. Michael always had an eye for baseball. He played as an outfielder and as a pitcher. When he was twelve, he was the top player in his league. By the age of fifteen, he wasn't the star in baseball as he once was. He was still very good, but he had lost some of his focus. Later, in his high school career, he dropped baseball to pursue another interest. Soon Michael adopted the game of basketball. When Michael reached the ninth grade, he tried out for the basketball team. Coach Lynch, Michael's coach, cut Michael, which in turn may have made the best player alive today. Michael then took practicing basketball to another level. He played his brother Larry whenever he could. Michael never expected what would come in the near future. Michael Jordan went to the University of North Carolina as a basketball recruit. Even though Jordan at 6'5" was a man with potential, he still studied very hard in an attempt to get a good education, while competing in sports. Mike wasn't expected to be a star of the Tar Heels, since they had players such as ...

Capital investment Essay

Capital investment:regardless of whether they involve a tangible or intangiable asset. The incestment creates wealth if the discounted value of the future cash flow exceeds the up front cost. The problem is what to discount- stick to these rules: 1. Only cash flow is relevant. Net present value depends on future cash flows it’s the difference between cash received and cash paid out. Cash should be recorded only when they occur and not when work is undertaken or a liability is incurred. Ex: taxes should be discounted from their actual payment date. 2. Estimate cash flows on an incremental basis. The value of a project depends on all the additional cash flows that follow from project acceptance. Some things to watch for when you are deciding which cash flows to include: a. Do not confuse average with incremental payoffs. you will sometimes encounter turnaround opportunities in which incremental NPV from investing in a loser is strongly positive. These benefits should be net of all other cost. b. Include all incidental effects. Sometimes a new project will help the firms existing business. c. Forecast sales today and recognize after-sales cash flows to come later. Many manufacturing companies depend on the revenues that come after their products are sold. d. Do not forget working capital requirements. Net working capital aka working capital is the difference between a company short term assets and liabilities. Most projects entail an additional investment in working capital, which should be recognized in your cash flow forecasts. e. Include opportunity costs. Is the cash it could generate for the company if the project were rejected and the resource were sold or put to some other productive use, which prompts us to warn you against judging project on the basis of before vs after or with or without. f. Forget sunk costs. They are past and irreversible outflows, cannot be affected by the decision to accept or reject the project and so they should be ignored. g. Beware of allocated overhead costs. We should include only the extra expenses that would result from the project. h. Remember salvage value. The salvage value represents a positive cash flow to the firm, but some have shut down costs in which case the final cash flows may be – 3. Treat inflation consistently investors that inflation into account when they decide what is an acceptable rate of interest, tax saving from depreciation do not increase with inflation. Discount nominal cash flows at a nominal discount rate. Discount real cash flows at a real rate. Never mix real cash flows with nominal discount rates or nominal flows with real rates. Operating cash flow= revenues-cash expenses-taxes Separating investment and financing decisions: we analyze the project as if it were all equity financed, treating payments as cash outflows as coming from stockholders and all cash inflows as going to them, we do this to separate the investment decision from the financing decision. Investments in working capital: working capital increases in the early middile yearps of the project. working capital summarizes the net investment in short term assets associated with a firm, business, or project- the most important components are inventory, AR,AP. Working capital= inventory+ ar-ap Working capital increases for several reasons: 1. Sales are increasing and customers are slow to pay their bills, A/R ^ 2. Age properly. As projected sales increase, larger inventories have to be held in the aging sheds. 3. Payments are delayed, which ^ A/P Additional investment in working capital=increase in inventory+ increase in A/R – increase in A/P