Tuesday, December 31, 2019
Butler Lumber Case - 952 Words
BUTLER LUMBER CASE REPORT The Butler Lumber company is facing cash difficulties due to the buyout of Henry Starkââ¬â¢s share and because it is operating a high growth rate. Thus, it is imperative to analyze the various options available to Mark Butler in order to meet the cash needs of the Butler Lumber Company. In order to support the reasoning for our recommendation, we constructed a ratio analysis (Appendix I; Exhibit 1). Even though the firm has realized increasing sales and decreased its operating and cash cycle, other factors were found to have contributed to the shortage of funds. From the analysis, we were able to conclude that the main reasons for the firmââ¬â¢s insufficient funds were due to its slower collection of accountsâ⬠¦show more contentâ⬠¦In addition to the requirements stated above, Butler will have to put up collateral to obtain the loan. We are not worried of his capability to do so because he can put up his house (assuming he convince his wife) at a market value of $110. As well, he can put up his life insurance which is worth $70. In order to maintain the sustainable growth rate Butler must adopt more conservative policies. For example, more conservative marketing, restrict credit terms to clients, and reduce the amount of employees. Lastly there are few restrictions to the recommendation provided. To begin, it would hinder the potential growth of the firm and it would not be sustainable in the future years because the firm will lack the ability to factor accounts receivables once they are completely depleted. On the contrary, the benefits largely outweigh the cons. Firstly Butler will foster greater relationships with his suppliers as he pays them within the discount period. Furthermore, the new loan comes with a number of covenants that would considerably affect the growth of the company such as limits on investments in fixed assets and net working capital. Finally, Butler would not need to sever its loan agreement with Suburban national Bank and break this long term relationship. Thus, for the reasons mentioned in this report, the decision to factor accounts receivables and keep the Suburban loan isShow MoreRelatedButler Lumber Case1404 Words à |à 6 PagesButler Lumber Company Case ââ¬Æ' Butler Lumber Company Case Summary of facts: In 1981 by Mark Butler and his brother-in-law Henry Stark founded the Butler Lumber Company. In 1988 Mr. Butler bought Mr. Starkââ¬â¢s share for $105,000 to be paid of in 1989 out of which $70,000 was raised by a loan carrying an interest rate of 11% and repayable at the rate of $7,000 over the next 10 years. Over the past five years, Butler Lumber Company has experienced rapid growth in its business. It derives its businessRead MoreCase Study Butler Lumber3374 Words à |à 14 PagesCase Study: Capital Budgeting Butler Lumber Company Abstract Butler Lumber Company, a lumber retailer with a rapid growth rate, is faced with the problem of cash flow shortage. In order to support this profitable business, BLC needs a great amount of cash. The loan of $250,000 from Suburban National and a line of credit of up to $465,000 from Northrop National Bank are the two choices provided. After a brief review of the operation and financial conditions of BLC, we first make analysis ofRead MoreButler Lumber Case Analysis1807 Words à |à 8 PagesButler Lumber Case Analysis Question 1 Butler Lumber, a retailer of lumber products in the Pacific Northwest area, experienced a time of growth in the spring of 1991 (Harvard College, 2002, p.1). The company looked to take out a loan to grow business operations. The maximum loan offer from Suburban National Bank was $250,000 (Harvard College, 2002, p.1). This loan also required a pledge of property from company owner, Mr. Butler, to secure it. However, Northrop Bank would offer a loanRead MoreButler Lumber Company Case Study1644 Words à |à 7 PagesButler Lumber Company Case Study Hoffmeister M-W 4:30 ââ¬â 5:45 Group #3 Sam Rosenbaum Joel Valenti Meg Lee Stephanie Grob Butler Lumber Company Summary of Facts. Butler Lumber Company is a Pacific Northwest based lumber distributor that sells plywood, moldings, and sash and door products. à The sole owner of Butler Lumber is Mark Butler, accompanied by one administrative assistant and ten employees who focus on repairs and labor intensive work. à Because of Butler Lumberââ¬â¢s competitive pricingRead MoreButler Lumber Company (Case Study)1788 Words à |à 8 PagesBUTLER LUMBER COMPANY CASE REPORT Francis Davidson Tanguay Paula Zalba Dounia Tazimezalek Carl Helou Applied Corporate Finance Larbi Hammami McGill University, Montreal Tuesday, May 14th, 2013 1. Problem 1.1 Why was sales growth so robust, but net income growth anemic at best? 1.2 Does Mr.Butler need additional funding to fuel his growth? 1.3 Why does butler lumber have a cash shortage problem to begin with? 1.4 Could the cash flows of Butler Lumber support additional debt? 1.5 Should butler lumberRead MoreButler Lumber Case Study Analysis Essay1444 Words à |à 6 PagesSubject: Butler Lumber Company Problem: Whether Mr. Mark Butler should go ahead with financing from Northrop National Bank or should stay with Suburban National Bank. Options: 1) Enter into a loan agreement with Northrop National Bank for USD 465,000 (Assumption: The condition to sever the relationship with Suburban National Bank applies to Short Term Loan only) Read MoreCase 13-6 Butler Lumber Company695 Words à |à 3 PagesCASE 13-6 BUTLER LUMBER COMPANY* Question 1 How well is Butler Lumber doing? Despite recording a tremendous growth in revenue as follows: 2009: 18.62% 2010: 33.83% 2011: 6.61% (on annualised basis) The profitability of Butler Lumber is on declining trend. | |2008 |2009 |2010 |1Q 2011 | |Gross Profit Margin |27.99% |28.61% |27.62% |27.30%Read MoreButler Lumber Company Case Study Report6120 Words à |à 25 Pages| Corporate Finance Case Study Report â⦠| Butler Lumber Company | | | 2010-3-17 | | éâ¢Ëæ⬠¡ 1091209054 ä ¸ ¥Ã¤ ¼Å¸Ã¦ ´ 1091209036 Ã¥ §Å"Ã¥ ¸â 1091209052 æâ¢â"ç ¿â 1091209024 Abstract In this report, we study the case of Butler Lumber Company and analyze the financing problem it was facing. First, we give a brief review of the background information of the company. Then we diagnose the business by examining its financial statistics and discover that company was seriously lacking of cashRead MoreButler Lumber Case Discussion Fathuddin Hamid Academia1338 Words à |à 6 Pages4/1/2015 Butlerà Lumberà Caseà Discussionà |à Fathuddinà Hamidà à à Academia.edu ïâ¬â Search... Log In Sign Up Butler Lumber Case Discussion à 1)à Is Butler Lumber Case just a bank lending / finance case? Butler Lumber Case is not just a bank lending / finance case. Though this case requires the financial analysis of the company, we should also consider other factors such as the establishing the long-term relationship between the bank and Butler Lumber Company. Through thiscross long-term relationship,Read MoreEssay about Butler Lumber Case Study Solution644 Words à |à 3 PagesButler Lumber Case Study Solution Options: The Butler Lumber Company (BLC) could obtain from Suburban National Bank maximum loan of $250,000 in which his property would be used to secure the loan. à Northrop National Bank is considering BLC a line of credit (LOC) of up to $465,000. à BLC would have to sever ties with Suburban National if they were to have this LOC extended to them. à à | 1988 | 1989 | 1990 | 1991Q1 | EBITDA coverage (times) | 2.5 | 2.26 | 2.15 | 2.1 | Debt Equity Ratio
Monday, December 23, 2019
Free Argumentative Essays Police Brutality - 738 Words
J Free Argumentative Essays: Police Brutality 777 Words 4 Pages Police Brutality Police work is dangerous. Sometimes police put in situations that excessive force is needed. But, because some officers use these extreme measures in situations when it is not, police brutality should be addressed. The use of excessive force may or may not be large problem, but it should be looked into by both the police and the public. For those people who feel racism is not a factor in causing the use of excessive force, here is a startling fact. In Tampa Bay, Florida, five men died while in the custody of the Tampa Bay police Department (C.C. 27). The thing is, the Tampa Bay Police Department is made upâ⬠¦show more contentâ⬠¦Ã¢â¬Å"The number of people killed by police has gone down from the middle 1970 s to the middle 1980 s in major cities,â⬠says Patrick V. Murphy, former head of police commissions in Detroit, New York, and Washington, D.C. (C.C. 17). Also, in Kansas City, Missouri, a police department there has 1,110 officers. Amazingly, the only received approximately 108 complaints from the public about those 1,100 officers. Adding to the belief that police brutality isn t a very big problem, most legal authorities and officials agree that the use of excessive force by police officers is going down. In fact, they say that they see brutality declining from twenty years ago (C.C. 57). Police brutality is defined as involving the unnecessary and unjustified use of force be that either physical or verbal. Gerald Williams, president of the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF) commented, ââ¬Å"Let me assure you we are committed to a professional level of policing with an emphasis on fairness, humanity, and integrityâ⬠(C.C. 168). Other than the police stopping brutality internally, the use of civilian review boards can be used. These boards must be able to receive all the evidence in a case, including the police audio tapes, in order to make fair judgment if excessive force was used or not. If excessive force is presentShow MoreRelatedMedia Violence9754 Words à |à 40 Pagesnormalization of aggression and the lack of empathy in our society. Study after study has shown that viewing encourages aggression and desensitization in children. The debate is over. Media violence causes violence among those who are exposed to it. This essay describes how the depiction of violence is evolving in a number of media formats. It analyzes how, and why, violence is used by entertainment and information industries. It offers an overview of research findings, an outline of government responsesRead MoreLogical Reasoning189930 Words à |à 760 PagesSacramento, CA 95819 USA ii iii Preface Copyright à © 2011-14 by Bradley H. Dowden This book Logical Reasoning by Bradley H. Dowden is licensed under a Creative Commons AttributionNonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License. That is, you are free to share, copy, distribute, store, and transmit all or any part of the work under the following conditions: (1) Attribution You must attribute the work in the manner specified by the author, namely by citing his name, the book title, and the relevantRead MoreDeveloping Management Skills404131 Words à |à 1617 Pagesshooting baskets). Management skills are: (1) linked to a more complex knowledge base than other types of skills and (2) inherently connected to interaction with other (frequently unpredictable) individuals. A standardized approach to welding or shooting free throws may be feasible, but no standardized approach to managing human beings is possible. On the other hand, what all skills do have in common is the potential for improvement through practice. Any approach to developing management skills, therefore
Sunday, December 15, 2019
Job Hunting Free Essays
ââ¬Å"The United States economy seems to be at its lowest at the moment,â⬠can be found headlining The Los Angeles Times. The unemployment rate has been at its highest since the Great Depression and statistics have shown that for over a year now the unemployment rate in the Inland Empire has been at 12 percent. As our society continues to stumble, America continues to decrease the number of job openings available. We will write a custom essay sample on Job Hunting or any similar topic only for you Order Now Because of this job hunting today is a very difficult process. To begin with due to a staggering economy there are fewer job openings available but more people trying to look for jobs. People all over the country are being laid off due to budget cuts. For example it is said that three hundred teachers are to be laid off this year all over San Bernardino Unified School District, Rialto Unified School District, and Riverside Unified School District. Teachers being laid off will cause a struggle for those on the hunt for a job because those who are currently looking for work will now be competing not only with the ones already on the hunt but also with three hundred others who have just been added to the statistics. For example a friend of mine, ten years ago was a business man working for a large corporation receiving great pay. Now my friend, the same one who was once a businessman can be found working at McDonalds as a cook, getting paid minimum wage because the corporation he worked for went bankrupt. He didnââ¬â¢t have any other options open for him and he had to settle with whatever it was that he could find at the time. The elderly have families to support at home and the young have their own bills to pay as well. Competition increases day by day and to be able to find a job just gets harder and harder. Furthermore, many people donââ¬â¢t have much education and with not much education the situation becomes harder on them to find a job. Education now plays a great role when applying for a job. In our society there are those people with AA degrees and/or BA degrees that are applying while others have nothing at hand. For example I recently applied at a hotel for a desk front clerk. At my group interview I was competing against a lady who held an accounting degree and who previously had experience. I, on the other hand, only held a high school diploma and had fast food experience. I was turned down because I had neither a degree nor experience. Being able to attain a job becomes harder on those who are just entering the workforce. With budget cuts all around the state and cities there arenââ¬â¢t many options open to civilians. For example my best friend who is at an academy to become a cop has just been told that there will be no job openings available for him once heââ¬â¢s graduated. His situation is due to the fact that the County of San Bernardino will be cutting 50 percent of the countyââ¬â¢s work force such as paramedics, police, and firefighters. Situations like this slow down the process and make it harder on one to be able to attain a job. Lastly due to the advancement in technology companies/corporations are cutting down on workers. Our society now needs less manual labor than what it once used to. A robot can do the job that a hundred people used to perform, in less amounts of time and with no pay. For example America once had manual labor being performed at car factories but with the invention of robots manual labor is not needed anymore. Car parts are now being made by robots and having robots benefits the company because the company can now produce more quickly and save millions of dollars on labor. Computers are another example of automation competing against human kind. For example over the course of the next three years Foxconn, the worldââ¬â¢s largest electronic manufacturer, will be adding a total of one million robots and computers to the corporation. The only meaning this holds is that over the next three years there will be thousands and thousands of people left unemployed. With robots and computers taking over, hundreds are left without a job and by the looks of it our society will continue to become more computerized and programmed. There are thousands of people who are unemployed today. Job hunting today is affected by a staggering economy, education, and the advancement in technology. Under the circumstances it becomes crucial for one to be able to find some kind of job. Day by day job hunting becomes more competitive with fewer chances to a new opportunity. How to cite Job Hunting, Essay examples
Saturday, December 7, 2019
Comm Chapter Outline free essay sample
When reading these chapters I felt like theres a lot of useful things I need to be using not only for this class but other classes as well. In the last presentation there were things I lagged on. For example in one of the sections it said using more than one examples are crucial to when making a point or presenting something. I did not use enough examples in my presentation which made not only my presentation less on time but less informative to my audience. Another problem I tend to have trying to organize things I brainstorm.When I write them out but I usually end up having my Information in all types of places. I also Like the advice the book gave on how using note cards Instead of lined paper would be more effective and easier. One section I found that want as helpful was the statistics part. We will write a custom essay sample on Comm Chapter Outline or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page I havent had many assignments In any of my classes that had me use visual lad for statistics. I felt they should have cut down on the Information on the statistics and elaborated more on the comparison and contrast.I wanted to know what other ways I can use comparisons and contrasting when vying my speech and what benefits can be used as well. I havent used compare and contrast in a while and I forgot most of the benefits it gives. Were things I lagged on. For example, in one of the sections it said using more than one example is crucial to when making a point or presenting something. I did not use enough examples in my presentation which made not only my presentation less on time but less informative to my audience. Another problem I tend to have trying to information in all types of places. I also like the advice the book gave on how using tot cards instead of lined paper would be more effective and easier. Assignments in any of my classes that had me use visual aid for statistics. I felt they should have cut down on the information on the statistics and elaborated more on contrast In a while and I forgot most of the benefits It gives. Com 122 Chapter 5 6 Outline By stay_bountiful One section I found that want as helpful was the statistics part. I havent had many giving my speech and what benefits can be used as well.
Saturday, November 30, 2019
Maritime Port Security free essay sample
Prompted by the US, the IMO agreed to make security amendments to he Safety of Life at Sea Convention 1974 (SOLAS). Parties to the IMO and SOLAS convention finalized these amendments at a diplomatic held at the IMO in December 2002 in London. In the diplomatic conference, it was agreed upon that maritime security measures will be accepted internationally by January 1, 2004, and in force six months later by July 1, 2004 worldwide. As a result of this agreement, the International Ship and Port Facility Code (ISPS) was drafted containing the amendments and complimentary provisions to the SOLAS. The ISPS was included as an Annex to Chapter Xl-2 of the SOLAS Convention. The new security code is the first multilateral ship and port security standard ever created. It requires nations to develop port and ship security plans primarily as a safeguard against the threat of terrorist attacks. It also provides for a standard framework in helping governments to evaluate risks in case of threat to ship and port facilities. We will write a custom essay sample on Maritime Port Security or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page The ISPS applies to all passenger ships on international voyages, to all other ships over 500 G on international voyages, and all port facilities serving ships on international voyages (Peppinck, 2003; US Department of Homeland Security, 2003). The Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002 (MTSA) is considered as the US equivalent of the ISPS. It is the US response to the security amendments required by the SOLAS and its complementary ISPS. The purpose of the Bill is to strengthen and add additional defense to the United States (US) port security. The Bill was designed primarily to protect the US ports and waterways from terrorist attacks. MTSA was signed on November 25, 2002. In July 1, 2003, the temporary interim rules for the Act was published, as well as the effective date of regulations. In the same month, a ublic meeting was held in Washington, D. C. , and the deadline for submission of written comments on MTSA was set. On October 22, 2003, the publication of the final on November 22, 2003. The Act was finally fully implemented on July 1, 2004 (US Department of Homeland Security, 2003; United States Coast Guards, 2006). . Review of Previous Legislation: The Need for MTSA MTSA was enacted pursuant to the ISPS Code, which is considered as the first multilateral ship and port security standard created. Since MTSA complies with the standards and requirements of the ISPS, the ACT is considered as the first specific egislation addressing port and maritime security in the US. Apart from the MTSA, however, Section 89, Title 14 o f the United States Code authorizes the US Coast Guard to board any vessel subject to Jurisdiction of the US, or subject to US Jurisdiction by operation of any law. The Coast Guards have the right to make inquiries, examinations, searches and seizures on board vessels if in violation of US laws. The Coast Guards are likewise allowed to engage in land, water, and air patrols, as well as to order any vessel to stop if it falls within their Jurisdiction. However, what federal law provides is control over the anchorage and movement of vessels in navigable waters of the US. Ship and port security standards were not expressly specified as within the power of the Coast Guard (The Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, 2001). The Secretary of Transportation also has the broad authority to regulate the movement and operation of vessels subject to US Jurisdiction, as provided in the Ports and Waterway Safety Act (PWSA). The Act also authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to respond to terrorist acts against vessels and waterfront facilities, as ell as to investigate any incident that causes damage to waterfront facilities or affects the safety of US ports. Under the Secretarys authority, a vessels clearance to entry in the US may be refused or revoked upon violation of the PWSA (The Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, 2001). The Omnibus Diplomatic Security and Antiterrorism Act of 1986 expanded the authority of the Coast Guard. This law was enacted in response to an incident wherein a US citizen was killed when a passenger vessel, Achille Lauro, was seized by terrorists in 1985. To protect passenger vessels and passenger terminals from errorist attacks, the US Congress constituted Title Xl of the Omnibus Diplomatic Security and Antiterrorism Act as the International Maritime and Port Security Act. Title Xl requires the Coast Guard to establish measures to prevent and respond to terrorist attacks, as well as to establish security and safety zones. Passenger vessels and passenger terminal operators are also required under this Act to develop contingency plans for security measures against terrorist acts, subject to examination and approval by the Coast Guard. However, this Act does not cover cargo vessels and erminals. The foreign port assessments are coordinated between the Department of State and the cruise ship industry. In 2000, only two assessments for safety and security plans were conducted (The Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, 2001 The National Infrastructure Security Committee (NISC) of the US Department of Transportation was created after September 1 1, and is charged with the responsibility of focusing on intermodal security issues and to ensure coordination of the Departments security work across all modes of transportation. Direct Action egulatory and diplomatic initiatives for each mode of transportation. S. 214, The Port, Maritime, and Rail Security Act of 2001 , was introduced by Senator Hollings of South Carolina, as a new paradigm in maritime and port security in the US. In discussing these initiatives, then Secretary of Transportation, Norman Mineta, in a Statement before the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, discussed that focusing exclusively on security at ports is not enough. A comprehensive approach that looks beyond ports and port f acilities, embracing the entire marine transportation system, is crucial. It should involve not only large seaports but smaller ports as well as ports of all sizes handling bulk cargoes, and the security of coastal waters and inland waterways (Mineta, 2001). Admiral James M. Loy, on the same occasion before the Subcommittee on the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, had this to say on the US port and maritime security strategy: While effective homeland security is built upon the principles of awareness, prevention, response, and consequence management, the primary objectives are awareness and prevention. Awareness helps focus resources and provides efficiency to prevention. Prevention places a premium on awareness, detecting, identifying, and tracking threats to our homeland security. However, once terrorists or the means of terrorism are on the move towards or within the United States, the nation must have the means to detect and intercept them before they reach our borders and our transportation system. While there are no guarantees, there is good reason to believe that we can improve our national ability to detect potential threats in or to transportation through effective use of information that is, toa great extent, already available. (Loy, 2001). Admiral Loy further stresses that, maritime trade, which is critical to this countrys economic strength, continues to move through ports with minimal interruption. It is no surprise that sustaining mobility will come at a higher cost to all of us. But the reality is that we live in a country that prides itself on the openness of its democracy, so we remain at risk to attacks of terrorism. It is incumbent upon our government to minimize this risk (Loy, 2001). MTSA fills in the gaps of these other past legislations and responds to the need for a more comprehensive approach towards port and maritime security in the US. Based on S. 1214 as earlier introduced by Senator Hollings, MTSA requires vessels and port facilities to conduct vulnerability assessments and to develop security plans that cover passenger, vehicle, and baggage screening procedures. The powers of the Coast Guard under PWSA, involving establishing security patrols, establishing security and safety areas, and to access control measures were deemed incorporated into the MTSA. Unlike the International Maritime and Port Security Act however, the MTSA is not limited to passenger vessels and passenger operator terminals. Its cope and security regulations cover sectors of maritime industry with higher risk of involvement in transportation security incident, and includes not only large passenger vessels, but also various tank vessels, barges, large passenger vessels, cargo vessels, towing vessels, offshore oil and gas platforms, and port facilities handling certain kinds of dangerous cargo or service. MTSA, incorporating the role of NISC, also requires the establishment of committees in all the nations ports in order local and state agencies and industries, as well as the boating public. These ommittees, called the Area Maritime Security Committees, performs much of the same tasks as NISC, with the primary responsibility of developing plans so that resources in the committees particular area are best equipped and utilized to prevent and respond to terrorist threats and attacks (United States Coast Guards, 2006). 3. Summary of Pertinent Provisions of the MTSA The MTSA was intended with the primary purpose of establishing a program to ensure greater security for US seaports. It requires the Secretary of Transportation to establish a vessel identification plan wherein vessel types and US port facilities hat pose a high risk of being involved in a transportation security incident must be identified. The incident as covered by this Act pertains to one that involves significant loss of life, environmental damage, transportation system disruption, or economic disruption in a particular area. The Secretary is likewise responsible for assessing the vulnerability of US port facilities and vessels that may be involved in any of the abovementioned transportation security incidents. In addition to vessel identification and vulnerability assessment, the Secretary of Transportation is equired to develop a plan called the National Maritime Transportation Security Plan, which should prevent and respond to any transportation security incident. The plan requires for the coordination of federal, state, and local government agencies. Consistent with the National Maritime Transportation Security Plan, owner and operators of vessels or facilities are likewise required to submit their own vessel or facility security plan to prevent and respond to transportation security incidents. These plans are subject to the examination and approval of the Secretary of Transportation. The Secretary likewise needs to establish security incident response plans for vessels and facilities involved in transportation security incidents. The Secretary of Transportation is also required to assess the effectiveness of antiterrorism measures in specified foreign ports (MTSA, S 102) The Secretary of Transportation may also deny admission, or removal, of an individual from the US if the individual poses as terrorism security risk to the nation. Otherwise, a qualified individual may be issued a transportation security card for entry into secured areas for vessels or facilities. The Secretary can also establish criteria for denial of admission to the US and can direct the Attorney General to perform background checks on individuals seeking entry into the US. Likewise, the Secretary is authorized to deny entry of vessels from foreign ports with ineffective antiterrorism measures or not maintaining effective antiterrorism measures (MTSA, S 102). In addition, the Secretary is tasked with coordinating with the US Coast Guard in developing an international agreement that provides for a uniform, comprehensive, international system for identification of seafarers that will allow the US and another country to establish the identity of any seafarer on a vessel within the US waters or such other country involved (MTSA, S 103). To help in implementation, the Secretary of Transportation is tasked with the establishment of maritime safety and security teams. The scope for these teams is protection of vessels, harbors, ports, facilities, and cargo in US waters. The Secretary is also tasked with implementing a system to collect and analyze information on relating to the vessels crew, passengers, cargo and intermodal shipments. Specified vessels operating in the navigable waters of the US are also required to be equipped ith Automatic Identification Systems (AS) (MTSA, S 102). In summary, pursuant to the MTSA, the Secretary of Transportation is required to implement measures for vessel identification, information collection, vulnerability assessment and to establish security plans for the nations ports and specified foreign ports. Violations of the requirements in this section gives the secretary authority to set forth civil penalties. The MTSA also served to amend past legislation. Section 104 of the Act provides that MTSA amends federal law to extend the Jurisdiction of the US to include all aters of the territorial sea as described in Presidential Proclamation 5928. The Ports and Waterways Safety Act (PWSA), which was earlier discussed in this paper, was also amended to authorize the use of qualified armed Coast Guard personnel to serve as sea marshal on vessel and public or commercial structures which are on or are adjacent to the US. These sea marshals have the duty of preventing or responding to terrorist acts or transportation security incidents (MTSA, S 107). The International Maritime and Port Security Act, which was also earlier discussed as Title Xl of the Omnibus Diplomatic Security and Antiterrorism Act, was also amended to require an annual report to be submitted to Congress on threats of terrorism to US ports and vessels. Such an annual report is also supposed to contain an analysis of the effectiveness of maritime transportation security activities under MTSA regarding port security against terrorist attacks (MTSA, S 110). The MTSA has also touched on the authority of the Coast Guard. They are now authorized to conduct marine casualty investigations involving foreign vessels in areas outside US territorial waters. Such authority is consistent with practices and procedures of international law (MTSA, 423). The Act also amends the Maritime Drug Law Enforcement Act to permit the Coast Guards drug interdiction Jurisdiction to extend to 24 nautical miles from US shores. This constitutes the outer limit of the US contiguous zone. The MTSA also provides for circumstances under which the US Government may legally seize a vessel involved in illicit drug smuggling (MTSA, S 418). One major strength of the MTSA is that, as landmark legislation, it provides for a standard for US ship and port security which is pursuant to one world standard for hip and port security as pursuant to the ISPS Code. The US no longer has to rely on a patchwork of security procedures since there is a comprehensive set of standards that the international community must adhere to (Ridge, 2004). In his Remarks delivered at the Port of Los Angeles, Secretary Tom Ridge stated: This will help create a culture of security at ports around the world and mandate specific improvements (2004). The vessel identification system required by MTSA will allow the US to regulate the entry of vessels, as well as its passengers, crew, and cargo before allowing their ntry into the US. Vulnerability assessment should also help port facilities and vessel owners and operators to evaluate their risks to transportation security incidents and terrorist attacks. The gathering of maritime information will allow the US to analysis make a port vulnerable to such incidents. The action plans required by the MTSA also calls for harbor areas to take affirmative steps in ensuring they comply with security and safety requirements, as well as to coordinate among federal and local agencies, as well as other maritime stakeholders. There is thus a Joint, nationwide ffort to fortify our ports and to protect the nation from potential terrorist attack. Basically, the obvious strength of the MTSA is that it calls for verification in the entry of vessels, foreign or domestic, into US ports. This allows the US to prevent and regulate terrorist threats to the country. Another important strength of the MTSA is that it calls for security plans and assessments which are pertinent per port or harbor area. US ports are not required to follow one strict security plan. Assessments and action plans are designed according to meet the unique security and safety needs for each specific port (Ridge, 004). Critiques of the legislation in related literature have identified three weaknesses of MTSA which relate primarily to security issues. The three weaknesses are as follows: 1) the limited number of ports that will be covered by the MTSA vessel identification system requirement; 2) the scope and quality of the port security assessments pertaining to vulnerability assessments; 3) Coast Guards intention of not individually approving security plans for foreign vessels (Wrightson, 2003). The AS, or automatic identification system, to be developed for vessel dentification system (MTSA, S 102) requires the Coast Guard to implement a process that allows port officials and other vessels to identify the identity and position of vessels entering or operating within their respective harbor area, as an early warning of unidentified vessels or vessels which are not in a location. The problem with implementing such a system is that it requires considerable land-based equipment and infrastructure which are not currently available in many ports across the US. Studies forecast that the AIS will be available in less than half of the 25 busiest ports in the nation (Wrightson, 2003, p. ). The second weakness in MTSA, which was apparent after examination and review by United States General Accounting Office (GAO), pertains to the scope and quality of the vulnerability assessments required by the Act for every port facility and vessel owners and operators regarding transportation security incidents (MTSA, S 102). In a Testimony before the Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation on September 9, 2003, Margaret Wrightson, Director for Homeland Security and Justice Issues, said: As part our work, we have interviewed port stakeholders to obtain their views on the process. At one port, where the assessment has been completed and the report issued, stakeholders said they had not been given an opportunity to comment on the report, which contained factual errors and did not include an assessment of railroads and the local power generating plant. At the other port, where the assessment was still in process, local Coast Guard personnel and port stakeholders noted that a survey instrument referred to the wrong port, asked questions they regarded as not pertaining to security, and was conducted in ways that raised concerns about credibility. Many of these stakeholders saw little sefulness in the assessments, believing that they added little to what the reviews of individual facilities or installations. They said the assessments focused on the same systems that had already been reviewed and would have greater value if they were focused on matters that had not already been thoroughly studied, such as the potential for waterborne assault (Wrightson, 2003, pp. 9-10). The usefulness and accuracy of such vulnerability assessments have been criticized extensively by those required to participate in such assessments. In addition to quality of such assessments, according to Wrightson, the costs for these ssessments are also extremely high. Most assessments have been conducted only at medium-sized ports in the US, and even at each port the costs per assessment is estimated at $ 1 million or more (Wrightson, 2003, p. 10). Given the cost and the questions as to the usefulness of such assessments, implementing this requirement of the MTSA continues to be a struggle and ineffective today. The third issue pertains to the vessel security plans required for all vessels operating in US waters. These security plans, subject to review and approval by the Secretary of Transportation, must comply with MTSA requirements. According to Wrightson, to implement this requirement, the US Coast Guard has stated that it does not have the intent to individually approve vessel security plans for foreign vessels. The Coast Guard provides that flag state approval of a vessel security plan constitutes compliance with the MTSA requirement of MTSA vessel security plans. Unfortunately, MTSA does not mention any role or participation of foreign countries with respect to the US Secretary of Transportations require approval of such vessel security plans. The problem with this is that ISPS provides for an international equirement for a security plan, which provides that a vessels flag state is responsible for reviewing and certifying the vessels security plan. The concern here is that a vessel may belong to a flag state which does not have a strong safety requirement standard. A foreign vessel belonging toa flag state is subject to the review and certification of such states safety requirements of that vessels security plan. According to Wrightson (2003), the Coast Guard implemented rules to address this issue by verifying that foreign vessels have approved, fully implemented security plans (Wrightson, 2003, pp. 0-11). Unfortunately, the US Coast Guard admits that its security effort is modeled after the US safety program, which may differ from a flag states safety requirements. The Coast Guard is reported to not have contingency plans in place in the event that stronger safety measures than those called for in their current plans are required in order to verify a foreign vessel. These concerns however pertain mainly to foreign flag vessels. us-registered vessels and their corresponding security plans will be reviewed and approved by the Coast Guard. Such review and approval also comes at high costs. In the 2004 budget for the US Coast Guard, the review and approval of the security plans as required by MTSA for domestic vessels alone were set for $ 70 million, with 150 full time personnel required to conduct the review and approval (wrtghtson, 2003, pp. 0-11). Lastly, there is a fourth weakness that can be identified in the MTSA. Although it was discussed that the fact that MTSA does not require for a specific security or action plan for each part, and that action plans are tailored to fit the safety needs of drawbacks. Congress has identified the issue of determining what elements of port ecurity might be best addressed through establishing across-the-board or standard measures applicable to all seaports in the US. These common standards and practices is naturally contradictory to the tailored, site specific approach that MTSA encourages in order to meet the safety needs and specific circumstances of each particular port in the US. For instance, the MTSA does not provide for a specific percentage of cargo which Customs Service should physically inspect at US seaports (Fritelli, 2003, p. 6). 5. Final Assessment and Recommendations to Strengthen MTSA Despite its flaws, the MTSA is still landmark legislation as it took a huge step in allowing the US to prevent and deal with terrorist attacks on the nations maritime ports. Of the 46 key areas identified to implement the requirements of MTSA, 43 of these ports or harbors have already transmitted maritime information which is a preliminary step in helping to establish security systems and action plans (Wrightson, 2003, p. 1). Due to the requirements in MTSA, the Coast Guard has also published its six interim rules on the provisions in the ACT wherein it has lead responsibility ertaining to national maritime security initiatives, area maritime security, vessel security, facility security, outer continental shelf facility security, and AS. The rules also provided for a comprehensive description of industry-related maritime security requirements and cost-benefit assessments for US ports (Wrightson, 2003, pp. 4-6). A careful analysis of strategies and issues identified by the US Department of Homeland Security calls for the following recommendations relating to the issues and weaknesses of MTSA identified in this paper (US Department of Homeland Security, 005): Development of an Infrastructure Recovery Plan which sets standards and procedures for recovery of maritime infrastructure following an attack or similar disruption. This should go hand in hand with vulnerability assessment, in order to respond to the criticism as to lack of usefulness of vulnerability assessments in ports. Vulnerability assessment should thus include assessment as to the costs and extent of recovery needed for an area after a transportation security incident or terrorist attack. Development of an International Outreach and Coordination Strategy. This should allow a framework for the US and foreign governments to coordinate regarding security measures and standards. This will address the issue regarding the Coast Guard verification of foreign flag vessels which may have different security measures and standards as the US. The other issues identified as weaknesses of the MTSA costs of putting AIS in place, costs of conducting assessments in ports, and the lack of a standard measure for all ports versus specific area standards per port have been addressed in the 108th Congress, 1st Session, in HR 2193. The Bill, cited as the Port Security Improvements Act of 2003, provides for funding of port security enhancements pursuant to MTSA. The House Bill provides for standardization of security requirements for ports, vessels and facilities, requiring the Coast Guard to issue regulations under Section 70103, Title 46 of the United States Code, to establish national minimum standards for security requirements for each port, facility in a port in the US, and each vessel entering a US port.
Monday, November 25, 2019
Occupational Injuries in the Construction Industry
Occupational Injuries in the Construction Industry Although occupational injuries and fatalities are common in the construction industry, a number of factors mediate their occurrence. Richardson, Loomis, Bena, and Bailer (2004) assert that empirical evidence continues to support the notion that division of labor across the United States remains grounded on ethnicity and race, as minority groups experience discrimination (Richardson et al.,2004).Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Occupational Injuries in the Construction Industry specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Research about occupational injuries and accidents indicates that the construction industry in the United States is the most hazardous; however, it is a low-paying industry that utilizes human resources from ethnic minorities (Menzel Gutierrez, 2010). Generally, the construction industry in the United States is among the largest industries, the largest employer, and the most hazardous industries, which contrib ute to approximately 20% of the annual occupational fatalities reported across the United States (Brunette, 2004). The Latino community is one of the immigrant communities in the United States that provide essential labor to the construction industry but often considered vulnerable to injuries and fatalities than other ethnicities. A body of evidence indicates that Latino men, who work in the construction industry, continue to experience higher rates of occupational injuries and related fatalities than other workers do in the United States. In a specific contemporary study, Roelofs et al. (2011) undertook a qualitative investigation about the perspectives of Hispanic workers in the construction industry regarding factors influencing occupational hazards and safety. Consecutively, using two focus group interviews with Hispanic construction workers, Roelofs et al. . (2011) reveal that Hispanic workers usually have higher risks of occupational injuries than other ethnicities, as 3.7, 3.4, and 3.0 are incidents of injuries per 100,000 workers among the Hispanics, the Whites, and the Blacks respectively. Moreover, according to Brunette (2014), the Hispanics generally constitute the highest population of the workforce in the construction, which is estimated at 18% of workforce with evidence indicating that Hispanic constructors are steadily rising disproportionately when compared to other ethnicities in the construction industry. Similar investigations have persisted in several studies to justify the claims of vulnerability of Hispanic construction workers to injuries and fatalities. By using the national census surveillance system to determine workforce fatalities, Richardson et al. (2004, p. 1756) ââ¬Å"investigated fatal occupational injury rates in the United States by race and Hispanic ethnicity during the period 1990-1996.â⬠In the Southern parts of the United States, 7.9 cases of fatal injuries in every 100,000 worker-years associated with the Hispanic construction workers, while only 6.9 cases of fatal injuries in every 100,000 worker-years associated with the White construction workers.Advertising Looking for report on engineering? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Hispanic construction workers do not choose to engage in risky activities of the construction industry as research has investigated the predisposing factors that expose these constructors to such conditions. According to Roelofs et al. (2011), several interrelated factors contribute to a predisposition of Hispanic construction workers to injuries and fatalities in the construction industry. As the immigrant community in the United States, Hispanics are among the marginalized communities. Researchers have established numerous factors that predispose the Latino male constructors to occupational injuries and accidents. Roelofs et al. (2011) postulate that ââ¬Å"language barriers, cultural differences, lac k of safety training, economic disadvantage, lack of construction experience, and relegated to the most dangerous jobs within construction are major predisposing factorsâ⬠(p. 1). Concerning language barrier as a predisposing factor to occupational injuries and fatalities, Latino men akin to other immigrant communities have little linguistic skills in the use of English (Ochsner et al., 2012). Due to their inability to communicate fluently in English and master safety workplace precautions, their chances of incurring injuries remain relatively high. Menzel and Gutierrez (2010) confirm such notions in an investigation of 30 Latino constructors. Even though companies sometimes provide employees with safety training and some required materials, the translation of language is ordinarily poor and thus Latino constructors hardly comprehend instructions (Menzel Gutierrez, 2010). Out of the 30 participants, seven mentioned that they felt ashamed of their accent. Culturally, Latino wor kers are very industrious, an attribute that make employers in the construction industry to target them. The notion that Latino workers value and embrace hard work puts them in an intolerable environment in the construction industry that is prone to accidents (Ochsner et al., 2012). Traditional values of Latinos embrace hard work and thus predispose Latinos to hazardous work, which is the economic activity of supporting their families. Apart from language barriers and cultural differences, construction industries have little concern for the welfare of the Latino constructors. According to Brunette (2004), low education and lack of appropriate and effective safety training are significant issues that dispose Latino male constructors to occupational injuries and fatalities. Socioeconomic inequalities are among the significant factors that force the Latino male constructors to engage in risky undertakings solely to provide for their families (Richardson et al., 2004). Competence and sk ills determine the effectiveness and alertness of workers in the construction industry. Since Latino workers lack expertise in the construction industry, their chances of causing accidents are relatively high. Latino men rarely hold top management positions in the construction industry and therefore compel them to perform menial jobs, which are not only hazardous but also unproductive. References Brunette, M. (2004). Construction safety research in the United States: targeting the Hispanic workforce. Injury Prevention, 10(4), 244ââ¬â248.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Occupational Injuries in the Construction Industry specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Menzel, N., Gutierrez, A. (2010). Latino Worker Perceptions of Construction Risks. American Journal of Industrial Medicine, 53(2), 179ââ¬â187. Ochsner, M., Marshall, E., Martino, C., Pabelon, M., Kimmel, L., Rostran, D. (2012). Beyond the classroom-a case st udy of immigrant safety liaisons in residential construction. New Solutions, 22(3), 365-386. Richardson, D., Loomis, D., Bena, J., Bailer, J. (2004). Fatal Occupational Injury Rates in Southern and Non-Southern States, by Race and Hispanic Ethnicity. American Journal of Public Health, 94(10), 1756-1761. Roelofs, C., Martinez, L., Brunette, M., Azaroff, L. (2011). A qualitative investigation of Hispanic construction worker perspectives on factors impacting worksite safety and risk. Environmental Health, 10(84), 1-9.
Friday, November 22, 2019
An Essay About Orbits Communications Essay
An Essay About Orbits Communications Essay The word orbit we hear it very often, whenever the space shuttle launched or it meets up ISS (International Space Station) or when a rocket launches a payload, we always come across the word ââ¬Ëorbitââ¬â¢. But what actually the orbit is? An orbit is a specific path on which an artificial satellite revolves/travels around another body or planet .This path is regular and repeating .Satellite can be natural and artificial, like Moon .Moon itself acts like a satellite which travels around the Earth in a particular path. In the solar system , nine planets including Earth ,revolves around the sun in an orbit .Satellite that travels around the Earth are not in a constant distance from Earth, it varies .Sometimes its closer and sometimes far away. The closest orbit of satellite around the Earth is called ââ¬Å"perigeeâ⬠and farthest orbit called ââ¬Å"apogeeâ⬠. The time required for a satellite to complete full orbit is called a ââ¬Å"periodâ⬠. According to Isaac Newtonââ¬â¢s first law of motion, a moving object will remain in motion unless something pulls it or push it, and that is gravity. Without Earthââ¬â¢s gravity, satellite would go off in the space along a straight path .With Earthââ¬â¢s gravity it keep on pulled satellite back to Earth. To maintain the orbit, the gravitational force and the momentum of moving object have to be balanced. Another factor is Escape velocity. It is the speed of an object (satellite) to break free from the gravity of the planet and enters into a certain orbit. It depends on the mass of the planet and varies from planets to planets and the distance from the centre of the planet to the object (satellite) is also important. The escape velocity of Earth is approx. 11.3 km (7 miles)/hr. Orbital Velocity: Orbital velocity is the required speed needed for an object (satellite) to stay in an orbit. It is about and altitude of 242 km, approx 17,000 miles /hr. [4] SATELLITE ORBITS There are three differ ent types of orbits High Earth orbit (Geostationary orbit), Medium Earth orbit (MEO), and Low Earth orbit (LEO).The orbit selected for satellite is depend on its usage and application. Direct Broadcast Programmes and weather communication satellites use Geostationary Orbit, as they are far away from the Earth and they travel in the Earthââ¬â¢s direction therefore looks stationary .Satellite navigation systems (NAVSTAR or GPS [global positioning system] ),designed to navigate a particular region or area and satellite phones are in MEO(Medium Earth Orbit). NASAââ¬â¢s Earth Observing System and other scientific satellites uses LEO (Lower Earth Orbit). [5] [6] Earth orbits. [7] ORBITAL DISTANCES [8] , [9] Orbits Orbit Initials Miles Km 1-way Delay Orbit altitude (KM above earthââ¬â¢s surface) Low Earth Orbit (LEO) 100-500 160 ââ¬â 1,400 50ms 200 ââ¬â 1200 Medium Earth Orbi t (MEO) 6,000 ââ¬â 12,000 10-15,000 100ms 1200 ââ¬â 35790 Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) ~22,300 36,000 250 ms 35790 Circular and Elliptical Paths There are two types of orbit paths, in which satellite travels around the Earth, circular and elliptical. In circular orbits, the distance between the earth and satellite remains same all the time. When a satellite orbit around the Earth, it creates a plane, which goes across the geo -centre or centre of gravity of Earth. If the satellite orbit with Earthââ¬â¢s rotation, it is called ââ¬Å"posigradeâ⬠and if it is in opposite direction, it is ââ¬Å"retrogradeâ⬠.
Wednesday, November 20, 2019
Policing and Penal Services Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words
Policing and Penal Services - Essay Example Although this may sound an ideal way to deal with criminals, the ground realities are quite different from the expected results. As no solution is perfect and without flaws, the same goes with this problem of handling criminal behaviour and controlling uncivil citizens, thus increasing problems inside the prisons and penitentiaries. Imprisonment and jailing has been an effective way to protect the society from corrupt people and individuals with criminal tendencies (Baker, 2002). Prisons hold a complete new world inside them as the most dangerous people from all over the country or province/state are collected in a single space, the chances of different mishaps and unwanted happenings are increased a hundred fold (Baker, 2002). Therefore, the prison service or probation service should be capable of handling such situations. Furthermore, the prison service should competent enough to prevent any incidents from happening at all. Containing any undesirable situations, preventing jailbrea ks, controlling prisoner riots, thwarting murder attempts and violent attacks, halting drug trafficking, preventing any sexual harassment or assaults and frustrating any prison gangs from causing any harms are the primary tasks of a prison service. Further duties include the training of convicts to become a better citizen of society, provide them with adult education (if required), providing proper healthcare without any discrimination of race, class, colour, religion or creed and building the capacity of inmates to integrate with the society after they have completed their sentence (Great Britain Home Office, 1979). Education can be used for rehabilitation of prisoners. It is important to make them stand back on their feet and help them become a productive member of the society. Prisons serve this essential function in the society as well. This essay will attempt to shed a light on the present prison services, their current state, the methodologies which are used, and their compete ncy and provide further alternatives and recommendations to increase their performance and capabilities. It will also comment on education and how it can play a role in rehabilitation of prisoners. Theory behind Imprisonment: Bjerregaard and Lizotte (1995) concluded that there are actually four theories that formed the idea of incarcerating certain citizens. These can be listed as under: Punishment Deter Specifically Deter Generally Rehabilitation. Punishment: This is a very basic idea which follows the concept of punishing an individual for his/her wrong doing and preventing him/her from repeating the crime. Deter Specifically: Also known as incapacitation, the idea behind specific deterrence is to remove the criminal individual from the society, relying simply on the idea that if such a person would not be a part of the society, his/her criminal actions would not affect the society in any way whatsoever and population in general will stay safe (Cao, Zhao, & Van Dine, 1997). Deter Generally: This involves making someone an example for a serious crimes (Carlson, 2001). For instance, if there is death penalty for intentional homicide, then lesser people will do any such act. This idea has given way to many harsh punishments such as life imprisonments and capital punishments. Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation involves guiding the offenders and making them better citizens of the society (Jiang & Fisher-Giorlando, 2002). They are given education and awareness about being a productive member of the community and participating in building the society instead of tearing it down. Although this is the most productive
Monday, November 18, 2019
Discussion questions Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 3
Discussion questions - Assignment Example This can be configured for the home setting so that it can include easy access to different personal files. The same can be done at school setting. It can be configured to include access to student records, for instance. The differences are in the actual content and security access measures. â⬠¢ Internet Explorer is often updated. Imagine you need to explain to a CIO what needs to be explored before deciding whether he / she would need to adopt the new version or stay with the old version and why. The CIO must explore the benefits and drawbacks of IE 8 and to consider how they will affect the business. For instance, the advantages of IE 8 are security because of Smart Screen filter and other built-in security features, reliability, such as through Automatic Crash Recovery, manageability through manageability features, and accurately displaying Web content. Its drawbacks are: 1) as a closed-source system, to have add-ons means paying for a license and 2) it still has security issues. The CIO must think about the time and costs for the adoption of IE 8. â⬠¢ The text implies that restricting the applications users can run on their computers creates a consistent workstation environment and provides increased security. As a CIO, take a position on this topic and support your position with supporting examples. How would your response differ if you were an end user? This is good if only one group of people accesses the computers. What if aside from IT, engineers also need access to the system? Should engineers ask for permission and access every time they need these computers? These restrictions will affect overall productivity. Security should not sacrifice the efficiency and effectiveness of the company as a whole. Restrictions must not be too limited, especially to those who need to use the computers for their various workplace needs. Employees should be able to use these computers according to their functions and security
Saturday, November 16, 2019
The Story of an Hour by Kate Chopin Essay Example for Free
The Story of an Hour by Kate Chopin Essay The Story of an Hour by Kate Chopin explores the sense of liberation for social forces that holds the character down and focuses on the feminine genderââ¬â¢s side of such struggle. Caged in a patriarchal society, women have been rightfully fighting for a life worth living. Born in such a society, women are often aware of their right to happiness. In this story, it takes an accident, particularly her husbandââ¬â¢s death, for Mrs. Mallard to realize her self-worth. Mrs. Mallard symbolizes womenââ¬â¢s situation with respect to her role in society. Her husband represents the patriarchal mindset of culture and society and it is in a sense ironic, that Mrs. Mallardââ¬â¢s sense of awakening, her ââ¬Å"birth,â⬠was made possible by the death of her husband. In the same way, that her new-found freedom is cut short by her demise. Writers are known to apply aspects of their life into their writings and works. Some literary critics may view such process as insignificant, citing that any analysis of such works in literature must concentrate mainly on the work body rather than any external consideration outside the work. The mention of Mrs. Mallardââ¬â¢s health condition at the very onset of the short story paves the way for the consistency of the storyââ¬â¢s ending. The simplicity of the setting indicates less the material sense of the story. For everything is much a personal sensing and contradiction of the main protagonist. In fact this particular part in the story is significant. She writes, ââ¬Å"She could see in the open square before her house the tops of trees that were all aquiver with the new spring life.â⬠Sensory images flood her being and all of a sudden the vision of the window means a lot to her. These nostalgic sensory images are an onset of Mrs. Mallardââ¬â¢s new sense of liberation. The vision through the open windows means a fresh perspective into her life. The husband may have treated her wife fairly as dictated by social norms of the time. Mrs. Mallard utterance of those words was not an implication of an unhealthy and brutal marriage but was more a declaration of Mrs. Mallard new found sense of independence, a sort of unbinding from the social chains of familial duty. The closing of the door and the opening of the window was very much symbolic to Mrs. Mallardââ¬â¢s closing of one aspect of her life, her marriage, and an advent of life of new possibilities. In a sense, it was a certain kind of freedom from a socially-imposed ââ¬Å"prison.â⬠As she imagines life without her husband, she embraces visions of the future. She realizes that whether or not she had loved him was less important than this possession of self-assertion she now feels. Marriage for women at those times was more of a one-sided arrangement in favor for the male species. Although one might argue that, at present, this is less prevalent. But the fact remains that gender bias is still incorporated into society in much subtle ways. This is very much how Mrs. Mallard felt towards her marriage. Her happiness was much subordinated by her sense of duty. Duty was highly regarded in Victorian view of morality. The symbolic travel is Mrs. Mallardââ¬â¢s personal journey of liberation paved by a sense of foreboding and tinge of sweet joy. Chopin uses parallelisms between her real life and that of her character Mrs. Mallard in the story. These are the death of her husband, the train wreck and issues on personal freedom. As recorded in her biography, the author Kate meets a Louisiana native, Oscar Chopin, a cotton broker. We see glimpses of her relationship with him by the way she follows her husband wherever he hauls their family from one place to another. At some time during their marriage, they establish a new home in New Orleans while waiting for their first child. However, her husbandââ¬â¢s brokerage business fails in 1879 and again he decides to move north to his family plantations in Natchitoches Parish. We see Kate here, subservient as any woman of her time, following her husband wherever he summons herto follow. Author Wyatt posits that Oscar was ââ¬Å"by all accounts, he adored his wife, admired her independence and intelligence, and allowed her unheard of freedomâ⬠(Wyatt). However, one is not sure if this was a real freedom she experiences from her husband because it is also told that ââ¬Å"After their marriage they lived in New Orleans where she had five boys and two girls, all before she was twenty-eight.â⬠(Wyatt). Having five children before one is twenty-eight years of age means that she bore these children practically one after another. Thus, how could a woman who possesses a freedom of her own give birth one after the other? In much the same way, The Story of an Hour tells of Mrs. Mallard as she learns of the death of her husband from people who even exercise great caution not to tell the bad news to her right on since ââ¬Å"Mrs. Mallard was afflicted with a heart trouble, great care was taken to break to her as gently as possible the news of her husbands death.â⬠It is the next few scenes that give us an inkling as to how she really views this death because she retreats to her room and instead of grieving, ponders on her life now that she had all the freedom in the world. Even the train wreck is replete with vignettes from her own story. Kate has her own share of ââ¬Å"train wrecksâ⬠in life. The deaths of her loved ones within a short period of time prove disastrous for her and derail her life. In a similar vein, for Chopin ââ¬Ës character, Mrs. Mallard, the train wreck her husband figures in signifies not so much as a tragedy but as the beginning of freedom for her. Chopin points out that Mrs. Mallard actually disdained her husband as she pens, ââ¬Å"And yet she had loved himsometimes. Often she had not. What did it matter! What could love the unsolved mystery, count for in face of this possession of self-assertion which she suddenly recognized as the strongest impulse of her being!â⬠The character was portrayed in an understated state of joy amidst the apparently bad news of her husbandââ¬â¢s death. Reading Kate Chopinââ¬â¢s The Story of an Hour inspires driven women to write many literary pieces on the issues at that time. Change is highly valued by women today who feel that they are incorporating the best of the modern world into their lives. Open to ideas and innovation, women are receptive to those who can explain how change will benefit them, just like Louise in Kate Chopinââ¬â¢s work. They now walk a narrow bridge between the past and the future. They will reject visions of the future that only repeats the past. Indeed, the theme, the setting and the characters and some events of this story may well derive more from her own set of personal experiences translated poignantly in a short yet memorable story. WORKS CITED Henry, S. The Deep Divide, Why American Women Resist Equality. The Macmillan Publishing Co: New York. 1994. Kate Chopin The Story of an Hour The Norton Introduction to Literature (eight edition) Real Life: Katherine Chopin. Encyclopedia of World Biography, 2nd ed. 17 Vols. Gale Research, 1998. Wyatt, Neal. ââ¬Å"Biography of Kate Chopin.â⬠Retrieved March 8, 2007 at: http://www.vcu.edu/engweb/eng384/katebio.htm
Thursday, November 14, 2019
The Movie Bugsy :: essays research papers
BUGSY Benjamin Segal was an infamous mobster during the World War II era, a time when America was experiencing national unity. The world war was in the back of everyoneââ¬â¢s mind. In the middle of all this madness the daily trials of being American were harder than the easier times of today. Benjamin Seigal was a big part of the mob. He was the mastermind behind the great town of Las Vegas. His borderline genius was shown throughout the movie, as well as his borderline madness. Ben Seigal aka bugsy was confronted by many problems throughout his life both the one that set him back was his love for the ladies, which led to his demise. à à à à à Main Characters include Bugsy-Warren Beatty ââ¬âthe main character Virginia Hall-Annette Benning ââ¬âBugsyââ¬â¢s love interest Mickey Cohen-Harvey Keitel ââ¬âBugsyââ¬â¢s right hand Harry Greenberg-Elliot Gould ââ¬âBugsyââ¬â¢s friend from NY Meyer Lansky-Ben Kingsley ââ¬âBugsyââ¬â¢s boss Warren Beatty was the main character in this film. Virginia Hill was Bugsyââ¬â¢s love interest. These two actors did a wonderful job of acting in a manner congruent with the times of the 40ââ¬â¢s. The cast was sprinkled with tremendous talent such as Harvey Keitel, Ben Kingsley, and Elliot Gould. As a whole I think the cast did a magnificent job taking the viewers to an era of America, which is not easily forgotten by those who lived through it. A time when the world was being destroyed by the Nazi Germans was over shadowed by Americaââ¬â¢s self-involvement. A time when Americans were beginning to be proud of their little world power was accented by the world war. à à à à à The wardrobe and setting were excellent. The clothes the actor wore were so authentic and representative of the times. I had a conversation with my grandmother and she reminisced with me about the times in which this movie took place. She told me stories of her youthful days. She raised her nine children on Long Island in the state of New York. She witnessed the power of the mafia in the time when the mob ruled. While watching the movie she pointed out several things she had remembered from her youth. There were signs on restaurants and businesses that read, ââ¬Å"we have air conditioningâ⬠a sign of the times. Signs that advertised things that are either not available today or completely obsolete filled the background. Air conditioning was in its early stages of development. Today I donââ¬â¢t think anyone would patronize a place of business that did not have air conditioning.
Monday, November 11, 2019
Scene paragraph
The scene Is when Maroon arrives at the hotel. After checking In she Is Invited to have dinner with Norman. While she is getting settled Norman goes back into the house and Marion overhears He and his ââ¬Å"Motherâ⬠arguing about Marion eating dinner there. He instead brings the dinner down to her where they begin to talk. While talking she gives her opinion of what he should do with his mother because she is ââ¬Å"very illâ⬠. Throughout this scene you get an idea of how Norman feels about his mother, and why he feels like he need to be there for her.This scene to me relates to the movie as a whole because all of the things that the viewer was told during this part of the movie Is later explained at the end. How Normal's mother dies 10 years ago but to customers, and to himself, he acts as If she Is still living. He also says that his mother couldn't deal with the death of her boyfriend and Is having a hard time dealing with his death as well as Normal's father. When In f act, Norman poisoned both the boyfriend and the mother.We also believe the mother to be doing the murdering but it has been Norman dressed in women clothes and a wig. The anatomy of the film I feel is in this scene but is slowly broken down and explained more in depth throughout the remainder of the movie. Taxi Driver The scene begins at the diner where the scabies meet usually meet for coffee while on shift. Travis follows the Wizard outside as he leaves and sparks a conversation with him eluding to the fact that he has thoughts In his head that he wants to act on. These thoughts are to kill someone.This scene plays a large part to me In this film because this Is where I believe the turning point for Travis Is. Throughout the entire vie he feels uneasy because he is searching for something, searching for his place in this world. His major issues lie with the scum that pollute his city and the fact that no one is doing anything about it. This scene is where Travis begins to come to the realization of what his purpose and that purpose is to fight those that are polluting the city. He can not and does not fight everyone but his finds a way he can combat this and takes advantage of this.All in the name of helping another person become a better person by convincing Iris to go back to her parents as well as getting rid of a ewe gangsters and pimps who help pollute the city. The Wizard of Oz This scene Is towards the closing of the film. The Wizard has granted all wishes he has promised to Scarecrow, Tin Man, and The Lion and now Dorothy is awaiting to where the all of the townspeople of Emerald City are gathered. Toto Jumps out his basket to chase a cat and Dorothy chases after which in turn causes her to miss the ride home.She begins to get distraught because she does not know how she is going to get home until The Witch Of The North appears and informs her on how to get home. I believe this scene relates to rest of the movie because it culminates everything that has happened in a few minutes. At this point Dorothy realizes she had the power all along to go home. The entire story was about characters going to see the Wizard to get something that each of them possessed all along. Dorothy possessed the power to go home whenever she chose to.Scarecrow wanted a brain but was intelligent already and was on display throughout the film especially when they battled the witch. Tin Man wanted a heart, but showed characteristics of having a heart all throughout the film. Showing love, caring, and being compassionate. And the Lion wanted courage, but didn't realize that it took courage to take the Journey to the wizard, and courage to save Dorothy. Dances With Wolves The scene is where Let. Dunbar is and the Indian arrive at their living area at night and he tells him that he is full.The Indian begins to check out Let. Dunbar Jackets and he asks if he would like to wear it. The Indian puts the Jacket on and as a gesture of goodness exchanges with him a tribal necklace. Let. Dunbar replies ââ¬Å"this is a good tradeâ⬠. They enter the tent where they all eat, Joke and laugh. Let. Dunbar see's one of he tribesman wearing his hat that he wants back. The Indian does want to give it back but in turn is convinced to give something to Let. Dunbar as a gestured of goodness. The previous Indian who Let.Dunbar exchanged his Jacket with replies ââ¬Å"good tradeâ⬠after the exchange as a sign of comedy. This scene is where I feel Let. Dunbar begins to feel comfortable in his new place in life and begins to really feel comfortable with the tribe that he is around. One characteristic of this movie is transitioning and I feel this particular scene shows a piece that contributes to Let. Dunbar transition. Raiders of The Lost Ark The scene begins when Indiana and Marion are trapped in the area where they have found the ark to be.They are in a below ground tomb area that is filled with thousands of snakes. Indiana seems to have met his d oom by being trapped in this tomb when the concrete cover is put back on top of the entrance traps he and Marion inside with the snakes. The rope Indy used to lower himself has been removed and the entrance seems to be over 50 feet high. With the fire from their stakes dwindling they are having a hard time keeping the snakes away. Indy notices that more snakes are entering their area from a wall that has drawings carved into t. They are entering through the eyes of the carvings.Indy believes that their must be something that is allowing more and more snakes to enter on the other side. He then devises a plan which has him tip over a giant statue that is in the tomb to crush escape from their demise. This scene to is one example of the reoccurring action throughout the entire film. Indiana seems to always find himself in sticky situations and it does not look promising for him to prevail. Somehow though, Indy always uses his tools or what's around him to escape any situation, even tho se that seem like their s no way to prevail.This is what make the movie interesting because you are rooting for Indy and hate to see him not prevail, and then somehow he does which in turn allows him to continue on his quest of securing the Ark. Pearl Harbor This scene begins at the hula lounge where men and women stationed at Pearl Harbor occasionally attend to catch a drink with their buddies. This time is different thought because Raff is now in attendance. Everyone within the Reef's unit, including his best friend Danny, believed him to be dead after he volunteered for an overseas mission and his plane was shot down.No word on Reef's status or his whereabouts were given for over 3 months. During this time while Danny was attempting to console Evelyn, Reef's girlfriend (or ex- girlfriend since he was believed to be dead), but during this time they both began to fall in love with each other. The situation has now became extremely complicated due to the fact that Raff is now ââ¬Ë back from the deadâ⬠and is having to deal with Danny and Evelyn relationship. Words are exchanged and the two break out into a fight that causes a large brawl at the lounge. The Amp's show up and the two set aside their difference and Danny pullsRaff away from the crowd so they both can get to safety. This is a small portion of a longer and more major scene but this small portion acts as an indicator for me throughout the entire film. The attack came as a surprise to everyone. A lot of casualties were witnessed. But the reason more casualties were not suffered because individuals were able to put issues aside and come together for a greater purpose. So many different people came together to aid the injured, to help the war effort by firing weapons first hand or flying planes to subdue the attack that could've gotten worse than it already was.
Saturday, November 9, 2019
In This Essay the Myth of Equality Between Men and Women Will Be Discussed and Progress Made by Women so Far, for the Fight of Equality Will Be Examined.
Year 10 ENGLISH Assessment 1:3 ââ¬â Using Language to Persuade Unit 1 Outcome 3: Analyse the use of language in texts that present a point of view on a current issue. TASK: Produce writing that analyses the use of language in persuasive texts. You will have two class periods to complete this assessment task. The prior two periods will be to prepare. Test conditions will apply throughout the writing of the assessment.. You must analyse 2 written texts, which will be provided at the beginning of your first preparation lesson.You may use a dictionary (bring your own). You may also bring in one sheet of notes to the assessment writing classes. On the reverse of this sheet there is a copy of the Assessment Criteria for this task. You should produce a minimum of one page per text to be analysed. Each text should have a minimum of one page analytical essay. Your opinion on the issue in the persuasive text, SHOULD NOT be included as a part of your analytic essay.English Assessment ââ¬â 1:3 Using Language to Persuade Nature of task: Produce writing that analyses the use of language in two persuasive texts. Studentââ¬â¢s Name: _______________________________________________________________________ |à |5 |4 |3 |2 |1 | |Criterion 1: Knowledge Analysis and omparison of ways in which language is|à |à |à |à |à | |used to position readers. (10 marks) | | | | | | |1. Analysis of language |Sophisticated |Detailed |Analysis |Some |Little | |2.Expression of the ways in which language of selected persuasive texts is|Insightful |Careful |Some |Limited |Little | |used to position readers in a particular way | | | | | | |Criterion 2: Expressive and coherent writing, with appropriate use of |à |à |à |à |à | |metalanguage (10 marks) | | | | | | |1.Expressive and coherent |High |Expressive |General |Clear |Simple | |2. Appropriate metalanguage |High |Relevant |Mostly |Some |Limited | Marks_____/20 Teacher comments/areas for improvement_________ _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Thursday, November 7, 2019
buy custom Homeland Security essay
buy custom Homeland Security essay The primary purpose of this paper is to look at communication and organization challenges facing homeland security. First, the essay will outline the context of the problem or challenge, including the history and any policy decisions that have contributed to the situation. Secondly, it will highlight the importance of the problem, and then identify who is impacted internally and externally. Lastly, an explanation why the problem has not already been solved will be provided (Nakaya, 2005). Homeland security was conceived in 2003 after the 9/11 terrorist attacks that hit the United States. The main purpose of the organization was to protect the citizens of America form terrorism through responding to natural disasters and securing its borders. As such, the organization has grown to be one of the largest U. S. government arm. The organization is large in size since its operations range from national disaster response to airport security and border monitoring. As such, the organization needs qualified personnel and good communication channels in order to meet its prime objectives. Basically, homeland security faces the challenge of lack of communication and organization. In 2006, there was Hurricane Katrina in Louisiana and the organization was responsible for the disaster handling. In this case, the organization was criticized, because they lacked the right personnel to handle such disasters and had poor management effectiveness. The destruction that resulted from the Hurricane Katrina was attributed to communication failure. The lack of proper communication caused destruction in Louisiana and a huge loss of lives. The responding personnel failed to coordinate search and rescue operations effectively due to a poor communication. There was also lack of immediate assistance and supplies from other states. The organization also had not enough state-of-the art communication equipment. With advancement in technologies there has been an increase in depedence and expectations on communication. Organizations should implement complex processes that seek to enhance efficiency of communication network. Nowadays, organizations rely on websites, social sites, and emails to improve communication, and such technological tools are regarded as an organizational way of life. Lack of communication affects all American citizens and government since they feel insecure and frustrated. In the Department of Homeland Security, lack of proper communication affects the reaction time, control and command, as well as efficiency of organizations for the period of a significant event. The government of the United States works tirelessly in order to overcome the challenge of lack of communication and organization. The effort is shown with a legislation of Communication Act in 2002. The legislation facilitates the establishment of a temporary radio station that is owned and run by the federal agency during significant disaster. The Act also empowers NCS to take on an emergency response, reinstallation, and revitalization of telecommunication infrastructure. Communication outages have been prevalent due to lack of equipment and incompatibility of the equipments (Smith Messina, 2004). The problem of lack of communication and organization should be addressed, because it is the prime avenue that ensures efficiency of response and rescue operations. The public is regarded as a credible source of information that aids the organization in conducting its operations. Communication will guide respondents on the exact areas that are facing the significant event. Furthermore, proper communication is essential in efficient functioning of the organization. The organization will ensure that right personnel are available, and that information flows through the right channels. It will also stipulate the right response and command chain, which will facilitate easier transfer of information. The prevalence of poor communication and organization in the Departtment of Homeland Security impacts people and departments, both internally and externally. For instance, the discrepancy is associated with other federal agencies such as CIA and FBI. American citizens feel insecure due to lack of communication and organization in federal agency they trust. As such, they are frustrated, anxious, and feel insecure. The government is also accountable in ensuring security of its citizens through DHS and other federal agencies. As a result, any deficiency in the department will impact negatively on the performance track of the present administration. The challenge can be overcome through structural changes, which will ensure effectiveness of the organization. The organization servers as an umbrella of other agencies and as such, federal agencies that perform different functions should not merge; this will ensure that the organizations perform their obligations effectively. The government of the United States through legislations has tried to counter the deficiencies that are being experienced by federal agencies, especially the Department of Homeland Security. The legislations seek to ensure that communication instruments are compatible, and that in case of a significant event there is an immediate response and recovery of telecommunication infrastructure. In conclusion, it is extremely important for federal agencies to have efficient communication network. The Department of Homeland Security should ensure that the challenge is improved in order to enhance terrorism attacks protection. Credible information in public domain can also be accessed through efficient communication channels. The organization can track the movements and plans of terrorist using intelligence that can be sourced easily from public domain. As such, adoption of technological tools in different aspects of management and communication is crucial in ensuring that the challenge is averted. It is the responsibility of the government and management of the federal agencies to ensure that the problem is prevented. Buy custom Homeland Security essay
Monday, November 4, 2019
Qualitative Research Analysis Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words
Qualitative Research Analysis - Assignment Example The assignment "Qualitative Research Analysis" talks about the effective analytic tools that can be used for the identification of features that are necessary for qualitative analysis. The interview conducted revealed that education standards are reliant on the ability of university administration to promote higher performance, in education, as well as students input in the process of education. Key issues, which featured here, were university administrators and students. As such, students have to ensure that they improve their individual performance levels to lead to the attainment of better standards in a university. This is necessary for the admission process of students in the university is diversified such that students are admitted from low-grade scores to higher grade scorers. However, both students and university administration have to collaborate in order to ensure that university standards are improved. One of the studentââ¬â¢s responses in support of this was: Student: The performance of the university is determined by the individual performance of all students. However, I can argue that the standard of the university is a collaboration of both the administration and the students. The quality of education, which is attained in a university, is also reliant on studentsââ¬â¢ performance. However, it is complex for one to determine whether one contributes towards the attainment of quality standards in a university. This is because universities tend to associate quality with students performance.
Saturday, November 2, 2019
Iraq Christian Immigration Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words
Iraq Christian Immigration - Assignment Example It is important to denote that in the current century, the social media is an important method of expressing oneself, and it has the capability of reaching a wide range of people. On this basis, the government and other religious organizations need to use the social media in preaching the message of peace, and discouraging sectarian as well religious violence. One of the long term methods of solving the immigration issue in Iraq is through education. That is educating children in primary, secondary and university institutions on the need of maintaining religious tolerance. It is essential for the government to revise the laws that promote religious intolerance, For instance, the constitution of Iraq provides that the official religion of Iraq is Islam, and therefore no law shall contradict the provisions and laws of Islam. This constitution is therefore discriminative to other religions such as Christianity in Iraq. However, Kerr (635) disagrees on this notion, and explains that in as much as the constitution of Iraq provides for an Islamic state; it also allows freedom of practicing religious beliefs, conscious, as well as freedom of thought. However, due to violence in the Iraq provinces it has been difficult to protect this right of Iraq, and hence leading to immigration of Christians from Iraq, to other neighboring countries. It is therefore essential for the government to seek the assistance of the international community in restoring law and order in areas where there is violence.
Thursday, October 31, 2019
International Marketing ..Rococo Chocolates Research Paper - 3
International Marketing ..Rococo Chocolates - Research Paper Example The primary objective of this study is to find out the value of the concept of expanding the business of Rococo Chocolates in France. The other objectives are to find out the market potential of the Rococo Chocolates in France and the way of promoting the product to achieve a sustainable position in the French market. The integrated marketing communications and branding strategies are discussed to find out the optimum path of success in the new market. The international marketing aspects have become a great opportunity for many companies. The Rococo Chocolates which is originated from London is now looking for great business opportunities in France. It is always very much challenging for any business entity to go global or to setup new business in other country. However, in this case the market is very much challenging as the growth level of the chocolate sales is not too high in the projected market, but with the help of out of the box thinking process the hidden path of the success can be achieved. To have a sustainable position in the French chocolate market, Rococo has to go through many changes accordingly. The strength and weakness from the inside and the opportunity and threat from the market must be analyzed properly to put step into the new market. Rococo Chocolates was founded in March 1983 by its owner Chantal Coady (Rococo Chocolates). For the last two decades the company has grown steadily. It has the great product line of different flavors of chocolates, and it also has different accessories related to chocolates. However, after catering the London with the flagship store in Motcomb St, in the center of Belgravia in London and with other two in London the Rococo has gain a great reputation within the London for selling rich and high quality chocolates. The founder and owner Coady is also the head of the chocolate society in London (Coe & Coe, 2007). With the vast experience of
Tuesday, October 29, 2019
A Framework for Thinking Ethically Essay Example for Free
A Framework for Thinking Ethically Essay The article ââ¬Å"A Framework for Thinking Ethicallyâ⬠analyzes the main concept of ethics. The authors explores the arguments of what ethics is and what ethic is not, why ethics is important, five sources of ethical standards, and advises a 10-step framework for making ethical decisions. First, this article helps identify what ethics is not. It points out that ethics is not based on the law and culturally accepted norms; it is neither religion nor a science; and it is not the same as peoplesââ¬â¢ feelings. Moreover, the authors describe that many philosophers and ethicists around the world proposed five sources of ethical standards to help understand what ethics are based on. Secondly, the article identified the following five sources of ethical standards: the Utilitarian Approach, the Rights Approach, the Fairness or Justice Approach, the Common Good Approach, and the Virtue Approach. The authors state that using these five approaches helps peoples define what standards of behavior can be considered ethical. Once one puts all these approaches together, there are still problems to be solved. One of the problems is that it is almost impossible to agree to the same set of human and civil rights, and another is that the approaches to ethical behavior do not have the same explanation for particularly difficult situations. Finally, the authors recommend a 10-step process for making the ethical decision. This 10-step process include five activities; 1) Recognize the Ethical Issue, 2) Get the Facts, 3) Evaluate Alternative Actions, 4) Make a Decision and Test it, and 5) Act and Reflect on the outcome. Step 1 and 2 ask to consider the impact and repercussions of the decision. Step 3-5 stress getting all relevant information. Step 6 asks to evaluate the dilemma based on the different approaches. Step 7-8 forces to choose the best approach, and look at it objectively. Finally, Steps 9-10 urge the carefulness needed to implement the decision, and the honest reflection that must follow upon putting the decision to action. This 10 step process gives the decision maker a pragmatic way to debate, mull over, and thoughtfully consider when making ethical decisions.
Sunday, October 27, 2019
Climate Change Problems For The Fiji Islands
Climate Change Problems For The Fiji Islands This paper explores the risks that climate change poses to the tourism development in Fiji islands. It shows the adverse effects of the changing climate and the dangers pose by the tourism activities and also pose a major hazard for the local people in the region. It also deals with the dangerous carbon emissions and CO2 effect on the landscape, food, water, energy. Key words: pacific, climate change, carbon and CO2 emissions. Introduction The pacific is the world`s largest ocean with a surface area of 175 million sq km and constitutes for 40% of the planet`s waters. Located in the tropical latitudes, it covers more than half the globe`s circumference. Temperature of the surface water in the western tropical regions is always more than 28 ÃÅ'Ã
C over a depth of several hundred meters. This makes up the world`s storage of thermal energy for exchange with atmosphere. Here the interaction between atmosphere and ocean is most extreme and influences the climate not only regionally but planet-wide. The nations of the pacific are obscured human settlements absorbed in this vast fluid universe. The ocean is the most important factor controlling the environment and life. Hence any change in oceanic conditions and climatic changes are important for environment and life (Philander, 1990). The mean climate of a region is defined by the average conditions observed over 3 decades or more, considering all characteristics that makes weather felt by everyone and predicted by meteorologists. The main characteristics are temperature, wind conditions, atmospheric pressure, cloud cover and rainfall. The south pacific is bounded by an area of low pressure near the equator and high pressure around 30 S parallel. North-south pressure creates the regular winds in these two areas known as the south-east trades (Philander, 1990). Any change in earth`s climate has an impact on mankind, biodiversity, health and services provided by ecosystems worldwide. For adapting to such climate changes it is necessary to understand variation of climate, why and how the climate changes, and how it impacts the earth`s ecosystems. Climate mode is an important way of understanding climate variability, changes and impacts. Earth`s climate is changing and such changes tend to take place with different patterns which may be characterised by one or many modes of the climate systems (Philander, 1990). Fiji is the largest tourism destination in the south pacific but international arrivals are unstable over the last 5 years because of harmful events like political coup in Fiji in 2000, terrorist attacks in United States on 11th September 2001, the Bali attack in 2002, and severe acute respiratory syndrome outbreak in Asia in 2003. Tourism is endangered to natural hazards and disasters like earthquakes, tsunamis, flood, droughts, and cyclones. Climate change is an important characteristic in disaster management as it is likely to affect Fiji through sea level rise and storm surge, changing temperature and extreme weather events (Wilbanks, 2003). About 400,000 tourist visited Fiji in 2002 with an average length of stay of 8 days. While most visitors come for rest and relaxation linked to beach environments, current marketing campaigns aim to shift the image from pure beach promotion to a wider experience (Ministry of tourism-Fiji, 2003). The main aim of this journal paper is to analyse effects of climate change in Fiji islands and adapting and minimizing climate change by the tourist resorts. The reason for behind this is that surveys and interviews were undertaken resulting in many operators already prepared for climate related changes and adapt to potential impacts resulting in climate change. Method Tourism in Fiji is largely based on resorts therefore accommodation sector is prominent tourism sub-sector. Tourists spend most of their time at the resorts. For the above reasons it was appropriate to focus on this analysis of accommodation. Effects of climate change on tourism in Fiji Tourism operators are familiar with ecological factors like strong reefs and plain water crucial for tourism in Fiji. Operators were conscious of the climate change associated impacts like cyclones, the thrashing of coral reefs and flooding. Polluted water was related to mounting water temperature and climate change. Increasing sea levels were mentioned by three businesses, two of which lie in low lying Mamanuca Islands. Generally accommodation business had experienced at least one of the climate related impact. The most common impacts were erosion, water availability, and interruption of electricity. Many resorts were affected by cyclones resulting in coral bleaching and property harm (Short, 2004). Climate related impacts previously experienced Frequency out of 25 Comments by respondents Shore line/beach erosion 9 Banks on edge property/beach give way Reduced water availability 9 In recent droughts Interrupted supply chain 8 Power cuts Coral bleaching 8 Noticed by tourists, snorkelling affected Damage to property 5 From sea surge Sea level rise 3 Storm frequency and intensity 3 Maintenance of gardens (Short, 2004). Eight businesses said that they were not affected by any of the factors listed. There are five areas located in the Mamanuca Islands, which are relatively exposed to climate change due to the risk of cyclones, sea level rise, poor water quality, disappearing corals, and inadequate water availability. There is need of understanding of climate change problems and the managers do not share the problems faced by climate change (Short, 2004). Tourist accommodation uses large variety of energy resources with electrical energy created from hydropower or diesel generator being most important for energy use. Petrol and diesel is use for business vehicles and other purposes. Also liquefied petroleum gas is used by most businesses mostly for cooking, hot water and in laundry. Energy utilization and greenhouse gas emissions differ broadly for diverse businesses. The standard of accommodation and geographical location are the two factors that have major influence on energy consumption and carbon-dioxide emissions (Becken, 2002). Tourist accommodation in the Mamanuca Islands is around 2-3 times asà carbon-intensive as that inà Vitià Levu. The key cause for this is in electricity generation, which is to a great extent lessà carbon-intensive inà Vitià Levu. Because of the high quantity of renewable energy sources (hydro and bagasse) compared with diesel production on islands with its natural inadequacy (about 65-70% of e nergy input is lost during the process of generation). Resorts on remote islands run more or less self-sufficiently, and hence have supplementary energy needs (e.g., sewage treatment, freezing rubbish). Transport energy utilization is also high given that not only do tourists have to be transported to and from the resort, but so also do food supplies, energy (diesel and gas), water and other devices required for operating the resort (Becken, 2002). The rough feasible estimate is obtained of energy use and carbon monoxide emissions related with tourism for the Fiji. The total number of visitor nights spent in Fiji was 2,891,295 in 2002 (Department of energy, 2003). 82% of visitor-nights were spent in hotels, 13% in backpacker/budget accommodation, and the remaining nights were being spent in motels, on boats or in other forms of commercial and non-commercial accommodation. Total energy used due to tourist accommodation was calculated at 1,078,373,475 MJ per annum which is equivalent to national energy use of 6.5%. in terms of carbon monoxide the accommodation industry emits 68,219 tonnes per annum.( Department of energy, 2003) Tourism in Fiji is extremely exposed to climate change related hazards such as cyclones, flooding and storms, sea level rise, erosion, transport and communication interruption, and momentarily less water availability. Another most important apprehension for the tourism industry is the deprivation of natural systems, such as coral reefs and forest ecosystems, further exasperated by climate change. Tourism businesses in common are affected in the form of physical damage from aà cycloneà or storm surge, erosion, and coral bleaching. In spite of the high risk linked with tourist facilities built on the waterfront, most new developments spotlight on coastal areas. Mangroves are been cut down in large scale who in turn acts like a protection against climate related changes (Jones, 2003). Tourist accommodation providers adapt to climatic conditions that may affect their business, and in doing so they are also prepared for impacts that may result from a changing climate. Typically, operators focus on relatively concrete and foreseeable high-risk impacts, such as cyclones and storm surges, for example byà cyclone-proofing their structures and erecting seawalls. A number of accommodation providers have insurance cover against cyclones and storm surges. Generally, it seems that the risk of accumulative impacts or more abstract impacts are less recognised and addressed. Pollution control, sewage treatment, and water management are examples of this. The vulnerability to extreme climate-related events can be reduced when climate change adaptation is integrated in the development process from the earliest stages (Jones, 2003). The exact location of the development and design such as building material, orientation, structures and landscaping helps in reducing the vulnerability. There is a opportunity to change tourism development in at destinations less vulnerable to climate change, with current attempts to diversifying Fiji`s tourism product in relation to ecotourism. New and unique tourism products can be developed in Fiji on high land areas using Japanese concept of shakkei (borrowed landscape), where hotel layout, garden landscaping and scenery are mixed together into an overall experience of ecosystem that is different from the typical beachfront (Ayala, 1995). A number of greenhouse gas moderation procedures are in place such as adapting generator sizes, switching off lights, energy efficient light bulbs and solar hot water. There is a huge potential for solar energy and wind-generated power especially on the Coral Coast, the Mamanuca Islands, and Sonasavu, these technologies are taken up slowly, inhibited by lack of knowledge, capital, capacity and government incentives. Often, the energy demand of a single tourist resort is too small to justify investment in a wind turbine. The policy focus and interests of resort operators in Fiji are development-driven, although there is a strong recognition of the concept of sustainable development. Climate change is mainly seen from the perspective of tourisms vulnerability and adaptation. Mitigation seems to be less pressing, although in the medium term increasing greenhouse gas emissions (e.g., as a result of increasing tourist arrivals) could undermine Fijis credibility in international negotiatio ns on climate change. The above order of Government and industry priorities has to be recognised when trying to implement any climate-change-related measures (Ayala, 1995). Climate change can be mixed with sustainable development by identifying key problems and then linking those to climate change. In the case of Fiji tourism these major local problems are land use issues, old stock accommodation, lack of new capital and investment, limited air capacity, dependence on air travel, economic leakage, lack of unique selling point, environment degradation and political instability (Narayan, 2000). Environmental problems like pollution, deforestation and excessive use of resources are to be considered. Potential issues in addition to these problems are more likely to be funded by donor agencies, stakeholders and industry members (Hay et al., 2003). Recognizing co-benefits of climate change policies is as important as its effect, for example, heavy use of air conditioning leads to increase in greenhouse gas emissions or the relocation of sand adds to local environmental impacts. Future work would need to take into account technological and economic aspects, as well as the expected amount of reduced or increased greenhouse gas emissions (Dang et al., 2003). Energy is a major cost driver for the operation of a tourism accommodation business, especially when energy is derived from fossil fuels either for transport or electricity generation. The operation of diesel generators is costly, because of inefficiencies, transportation costs (diesel shipment), maintenance, and salaries for powerhouse staff. Thus, managers have an economic interest in keeping electricity consumption low. The crux with diesel generators, however, is that once a generator is purchased, the optimum range of electricity generation is determined at about 80% of the maximum performance. Mini hydropower schemes are less relevant for coastal resorts, but could be an option for tourism ventures operated in inland communities (referred to as ecotourism operators by the Fiji Ministry of Tourism and Visitor Bureau). The capital costs are very high, however, and consequently the uptake is minimal. The Department of Energy currently assesses potential sites for mini hydropower s chemes, and it is also exploring potential for geothermal electricity generation on Vanua Levu, the second largest island of Fiji. Wind energy is not widely used in Fiji, but the Coral Coast, Mamanuca Islands, and Sonasavu are promising locations for wind-powered generation. Wind energy systems are available at different scales, ranging from small 1-kW ones to 100-700à kW schemes (medium scale), or even larger ones (UNEP, 2003). Tourist resorts would need small- to medium-scale wind systems if they want to meet their whole electricity demand by wind power. Small islands are unlikely to erect wind turbines because of lack of space and noise pollution. Resorts on larger areas are in a better position to pursue wind energy. No renewable energy sources are currently seriously discussed for transport, although one resort looked into wind-driven boats, and there are explorations into replacing fossil fuel with bio-fuel, for example derived fromà coconutà (copra) oil (Sopac, 2004). Steps to minimize the effect of climate change in Fiji Reforestation is the most important means of reducing climate change. Trees minimizes vulnerable nature of cyclones, improve microclimate and enhances landscapes which are used in tourism activities. Trees reduce carbon content in the air and are useful in adaptive measures like erosion control and watershed management. Forest protection and plantation should be done under adaption policies. Developing small scale technologies for wind and solar energy on the remote island would help reduce the dependency on imported fossil fuel and economic leakage (Dang et al., 2003). Adaptation Impact on mitigation Impact on environment Tree plantation Reduces net CO2 emissions through carbon sinks Benefits biodiversity, water management, soils Water conservation Reduces energy costs for supplying water Positive in areas where water is limited Renewable natural resources Reduces CO2 emissions Overall, less polluting than fossil fuels Natural building materials Small carbon footprint for locally produced materials Depends on sustainability of plantations Reducing water pollution Increased energy used for sewage treatment Positive for coral reefs and marine life Marine protection Neutral Positive for marine biodiversity Rain water collection Saves transport energy for supplying water Possibly interrupts the natural water cycle Guest education Neutral Increases awareness Setting back structures Neutral Positive when structures built away from beachfront Diversifying markets Positive if markets are eco-efficient Depends on environmental impacts of new markets Weather proofing tourist activities Depends on the type of activities Depends on the type of activities Water desalinisation High energy costs Takes pressure off freshwater resources Increasing beach conditioning Increases CO2 emissions Air pollution in case of diesel generation Beach nourishment Energy use for mining and transportation Disturbs eco systems Reducing beach erosion with sea walls Neutral Disturbs natural currents and cause erosion (Dang et al., 2003). There is no common strategy to address interactions between climate change and tourism in Fiji, nor is there a sector-wide industry association that could promote any climate-change-related initiatives. However, there are isolated examples among industry members that reveal a high understanding and advanced use of technology and management to address climatically unfavourable conditions. Those operators are also best prepared for increased risks resulting from climate change. Also, a number of operators engage in wider environmental management, energy conservation, and therefore climate change mitigation, although the greenhouse gas emission aspect is rarely the reason for the mitigating measures undertaken Overall, there is a need for tourism-specific information on what climate change is, how it will affect tourism, and what operators could do to adapt and mitigate. In the medium term it would also be important to include climate change in the curricula of tertiary education for students in the field of tourism, resource management engineering and architecture. Since the scope and costs for many adaptation and mitigation measures are largely determined by the design of tourist facilities, the incorporation of these aspects into architectural courses is particularly important. Alongside information and education initiatives, the Government could assist businesses in undertaking energy audits, facilitating the implementation of Environmental Management Systems (e.g., Green Globe 21), and providing incentives, for example for the uptake of renewable energy sources. Climate change could form part of a wider risk management plan for tourism. Such an initiative is currently being discussed between the Ministry of Tourism and the Disaster Management Office. A two-level approach could be possible, where guidelines are provided for tourism operators to develop their own risk or disaster management plan at the business level, while Government covers wider issues beyond individual businesses, such as tourism infrastructure and larger evacuation plans. The current attempt by the Fiji Visitor Bureau to diversify the product could be seen as part of national-level risk management, as they attempt to spread risk across different markets (e.g., event tourism, sport tourism, nature tourism) and seasons. Fewer initiatives exist to weather-proof tourism, as suggested for tourism in Phuket, Thailand (Raksakulthai, 2003). Another important step towards implementing a nation-wide risk management strategy for tourism and climate change would be the mapping of all tourism infrastructure, as well as the risk of various hazards in different locations. The Department of Environment in their climate change policy or the Ministry of Tourism in their risk management plan are best advised to pursue measures that offer win-win situations, namely for adaptation, mitigation, wider environmental management and development. Examples of such measures are reforestation, water conservation, and the use of renewable energy sources. It is recommended that the synergies between adaptation, mitigation, and sustainable development be explored further and that the effects be quantified where possible; i.e., how muchà carbonà can be saved as a result of a particular measure and what costs are involved. This is even more important given the lack of resources in Fiji, which requires maximising benefits from any implemented measure (Dang et al., 2003). Reducing the consumption of hot water for laundry and showers and reducing the water temperature are saving measures. Other energy use reductions measures in accommodation are lighting, including energy efficient light bulbs, sensor lighting in the garden, solar panel lights, and room keys used to operate lights inside the room. Although energy efficient bulbs are good option they are expensive and do not last long because of the fluctuating supply of power from generators. In the smaller islands the energy costs of shipping are higher, so the managers tend to increase the ship load with passengers on board with food, waste or water. One way of saving fuel is to minimize shipping trips. The increase in global mean temperature to 2 degrees above pre-industrial levels is necessary to keep the risk of dangerous climate change at an acceptable level and to limit climate impacts. Temperatures increase certain level of atmospheric concentration. The results indicate that in order to have a good chance of limiting global average temperature in the long run to 2 degrees atmospheric concentration of all greenhouse gases needs to be stabilised. Intergovernmental policy on climate change i.e. IPCC indicates that keeping concentration in the range of 445-490 ppm requires global emissions to peak by 2015, and to fall by between 50-85% by 2050. Current trends would result in much higher concentrations and high risks of catastrophic climate change. The clean development mechanism means to make compliance with easier target commitments , the Kyoto Protocol allows using offset credits from emissions reduction projects in developing countries, under the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM). Governments can propose and implement emissions reductions on a project-by-project basis under CDM. The resulting credits are bought by governments that are under emissions reduction obligations. Large projects categories are renewable energy mainly using hydropower instead of fossil fuels, reduction of methane emissions from landfills and coal mines, emissions from cement production, and destruction of potent industrial gases. There were over three thousand CDM projects underway in may 2008, which, is implemented and approved, would yield expected emissions reductions of 2.5 billion tons of carbon dioxide. The Asian Pacific region accounts for 80 per cent of the CDM credits that expected to be generated. The World Bank cites supply estimates of 1 .4 to 2.2 billion credits by 2012 Conclusions and recommendations Global concern over climate change impacts and risks has increased greatly in recent times, and climate change is recognised not only an environmental challenge but also an economic challenge. The Pacific region is home to the fast growing, large economies in the world and the dominant source of growth in greenhouse gas emissions. To limit and reduce emissions action is required in developing countries. There is large number of opportunities to reduce emissions but most of these are expensive and cannot be implemented unless policy settings change. More ambitious policies will be needed to turn emission trends around in developing and developed countries. The international dynamics are of the mutually reinforcing type: one country`s action depends on other countries doing their bit. The more countries commit to significant policies, the easier it will become to draw others in. In contrast, if some countries refuse to take part in collective action, others will also refuse to do so. A n effective response to global climate change will need to involve bilateral deal or multilateral agreement. Large and medium sized economies will need to be a part of it. For an agreement to succeed, the door must be kept wide open for developing countries to engage fully in policies, with the support of high income countries. Climate change analysts predict that within the coming decades, sea level will rise gradually. So the affecting nation might have begun identifying the effects of climate change on tourism activities and overall people living in that region. Small islands are at risk to adapt to the adverse affects of climate change because of high costs as well as benefits. Not only just people but unique human cultures are also at high risk. Migration is another option for local people but again the cost factor is crucial, as most of these people are illiterate and unemployed. They will have to relocate unwillingly. Survival is the main concern in this case. It is also highly impossible for any recipient nation to grant asylum to an entire country. The larger impact of climate change will challenge the capacity of the country. The secondary impacts will be water scarcity, food security, health services, land scarcity. At some point many land areas will become incapable of sustaining life and people will be forced to migrate.
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