Policy Analysis Paper/CJA/464 Essay

Policy is a large part of policing in the United States. Policy helps set law, and law helps keep order amid the chaos if enforced properly. But every policy must be looked at carefully before, during and after enforcement to make sure that policy is and continues to be the best fit for the issues at hand. Sometimes looking at two policies and comparing them can help find a solution in the middle. It is important to give a policy a realistic goal, to accomplish in a realistic time in order to find out if it was truly effective or not. Crime Control Model/ Due Process Model: Crime control model places emphasis on using more police and harder court sentences to help deter and hopefully reduce crime. It utilizes the powers held by the government to protect the people, with limited regards to their rights (Sociology Index, 2013). It favors tougher punishment to crimes and on the criminals that perform them. Crime Control model argues that sometimes, persons should give up their rights, to protect and benefit society as a whole. Often people are assumed to be guilty until proven innocent. Due Process tries to focus on the rights of the individuals and limiting the power held by the government. People that wish to limit government tend to favor the due process model over the crime control model. In the due process model, people are innocent until proven guilty, and are not adequately punished until their guilt is well established through the criminal justice system. Each model has their place in our criminal justice system, having both strengths and weaknesses. As society changes, the models must be willing to trade off to adapt to the crime conditions for that time. Both embrace some aspects of the core values of the constitution, and while the ways they can work together are few, they do have their moments. Policies/ Opinion: The Border Search of Information Policy is a policy set forth in 2008 which allows Border Patrol agents the ability to search and seize both printed and electronic materials and devices without needing a warrant or probable cause (CPB, 2008). If an individual is going through a check point or any Border Patrol station, the officers may choose to pull them aside for a random inspection. During the course of that inspection they may go through any and all electronic and printed items (ACLU, 2013). ICE and Department of Homeland Security have similar policies. These policies all seem to throw out the fourth amendment which states â€Å"The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized†. (Fourth Amendment, 1789) Some argue that this is a necessary right to forgo, to stop such things as child pornography, or links to terrorism (DHS, 2014). I have even heard the excuse of â€Å"If you have nothing to hide, it shouldn’t be a problem. † I respectfully have to disagree, quoting Benjamin Franklin â€Å"They who would give up essential Liberty, to purchase a little temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety. † (Franklin). Currently this policy seems to favor crime control, and not due process, violating people’s rights without just cause. Roles of the Courts: The courts play a few roles in this policy. One role is as they are prosecuting the violations several cases might get thrown out due to the constitutionality of the search. Courts have the power to look at this policy, and try to find a way to fix the constitutional rights that are being violated within before people that deserve to get punished, get set free to continue their illegal activities. If this does not change, many more innocent people maybe hurt as their rights are violated trying to attempt to catch people that will try to get away with a crime any way they can. Some may think they have nothing to hide, that they’ve done nothing wrong, only to be caught because in a text message they talk about something private that may raise questions in the eyes of the officer. Conclusion: . The people need to know that they are going to be innocent until proven guilty and they have to trust that the government always has their best interest in mind. This includes keeping their essential constitutional rights in mind, and protecting them from possible abuse of power by officers who feel above the law. Due process and Crime control models do have their place, and the country’s courts must attempt to find a balance between the rights of the individuals and the protection of society. By analyzing the policies at hand, and establishing clear boundaries ensures that the criminals are caught the correct way, and the rights of the innocent people are left undamaged.

Negative Effects of Mining in Palawan

Thesis Statement: The continuous mining in Palawan will cause degradation of the soil, denuding of the forests and extinction of animal and plant species thus lowering its’ biodiversity. Biological diversity, or biodiversity, encompasses the variety and abundance of plants, animals, and microorganisms as well as the ecosystems and ecological processes to which they belong. (Braatz, 1992) The word came from the Latin â€Å"bios† which means life and â€Å"diversitas† which means variety or differences which therefore means variety of life. Catibog-Sinha, C. , Heaney, L. 2006) Biodiversity plays a large role on what the society is possessing today. Its’ significance can be divided into two main aspects: the economic benefits and the services it gives to humanities. The most politically appealing and economically attractive argument in favour of maintaining biodiversity is that it provides enormous direct economic benefits in the form of food, medicines, indu strial raw materials and has the potential for generating many more. Ehrlich and Wilson, 1991; McNeely, 1988 as cited in Braatz, 1992) In addition to this, there are three main factors of biodiversity loss and these are the continuous changing of land use, the ongoing expansion, emergence and integration of markets and states, and the movement of species into the areas inhabited by others. (Konteleon, A. , Pascual, U. , Swanson, T. , 2007) In an article in the Philippine Star newspaper, it was said that â€Å"The Philippines ranks fifth globally in the number of plant species, and it hosts about 5% of the world’s flora. † (Paje, R. 2012) The Philippines has been named one of the world’s â€Å"megadiverse† countries, and it has been ranked one of the countries with the highest rates of discovery in the world. (Yap, D. , 2012) Also, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has revealed that more than 270 wildlife species endemic to the Phi lippines have been found in the past 25 years. In a statement given by DENR Secretary Ramon Paje (2012) â€Å"These discoveries of sorts are a testament that the Philippines is richly endowed with unique biodiversity that only underscores the need for stepped up protection.These endemic species are our living jewels. They are irreplaceable and unique components of our awesome environmental heritage. † (Villanueva, R. 2012) Fortunately, there is a province here in the Philippines that is so much blessed in biological diversity. This province is referred to as the â€Å"Last Ecological Frontier† of the country due to the number of endangered species of birds, mammals, amphibians and reptiles that are found only in this province. Thus, the name Palawan enters. Palawan is the largest province in the country with an area of 1,489,655 hectares or equivalent to 5% of the country’s local territory.It comprises of the following biodiversity: 15 lakes, 42 ponds, 44 waterf alls, 72 natural springs, 9 mineral springs, 28 principal rivers, 43 streams and 165 creeks identified as potential sources of water for domestic consumption and irrigation, 690,000 hectares of terrestrial forest, 42,500 hectares of mangrove forests- having 31 species and 90% of the known mangrove species in the country, 8 of the 11 amphibians endemic to the Philippines, 279 species of birds- 27 are endemic, 15 out of 25 marine mammals, 58 species of terrestrial mammals- 19 endemic to the country and 16 are restricted to Mantalingahan Mountain Range, 24 endemic reptiles and 69 species found in the corridor, 4 of the 5marine turtles and 379 species of corals and 82% of the total coral species recorded in the country.Aside from having the title of the â€Å"Last Ecological Frontier†, the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) declared it as a â€Å"Man and Biosphere Reserve† because of its’ uniqueness like having a vast land area and topography which is divided by tall mountain ranges such as Mt. Mantalingahan, Mt. Gantung in the southern part and Cleopatra’s Needle in the northern part of the province with an average elevation of approximately 1,100 meters. Palawan is also a home of three major indigenous communities namely: Batak which can be located in the central and northern part, Tagbanua in the central, northern and southern part and Pala’wan in the southern part of the province. (http://pnni. wordpress. com) Because of the natural resources endowed upon Palawan and the local and global appreciation it gathered, the Senate Bill No. 1358 was created.This declares Palawan as the â€Å"Ecological Tourism Capital of the Philippines† and thus needs ample â€Å"government support† and â€Å"grant of autonomy† for its ecological projects. The said bill banks on the â€Å"right of the people to a balanced and healthful ecology† and protects Palawan from attacks on its natural resources. (Estropia, E. J. , 2012) Palawan does not only have distinct species but it also possesses beautiful sceneries that have gathered titles and are well-known around the globe. One of these is the Tubbataha Reef which covers 33,200 hectares and a home to lots of marine life such as manta rays, sea turtles, sharks, tuna, dolphins, jackfish, coral reefs with 300 coral species and 379 species of fish.It is also the one of the most desirable scuba-diving destination in the Philippines. Another is the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River which was chosen as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature. However, the biodiversity of Palawan is under very high threat. Conservation International has identified Palawan as a site for threatened amphibians, mammals, birds, reptiles, and freshwater fish, as well as for restricted-range and congregatory birds, using confirmed locality data for each target species. (Impact Asian Magazine for Human Transformation 45(7), 2011) As of today, Palawan has been experiencing a serious problem that could lower its biodiversity and this is mining.Mining is the extraction of minerals down the earth’s crust. In mining, land excavation will always be performed whether it is an open-cast mining or an underground mining. Both types will cause significant effects on the environment and to all living organisms around the area. It cannot be hide that the province of Palawan is not only rich in biodiversity but also rich in mineral deposits that lie under its virgin forests. This made many mining industries to capitalize in the province and extract minerals. The mineral resources that can be found in the province are nickel, copper, manganese, chromite and gold. However, nickel ranks first in terms of the province’s mineral production value.Even though the mining industry contributes on raising the status of Philippine economy, as anticipated, it is causing disruptive activities that harm the people and the environment o f Palawan specifically lowering its biodiversity level. â€Å"According to Impact, Asian Magazine for Human Transformation in their special edition on July 2011entitled â€Å"Palawan: A Clash Between Mining and Biodiversity†, mining operations have been active in Palawan since 1970. It was revealed that mining tenements are found in core protected zones in Palawan. † (Estropia, E. J. , 2012) Also, according to statistics, there are 429 mining claims and applications currently present in Palawan which covered up a total area of 850,000 hectares. The numbers of mining firms are alarming since most of these are prominent in the north and south part of Palawan where the biodiversity level is high.Geo-tagging data from Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Mines and Geosciences Bureau (DENR-MGB) as of March 2011, has also found the province and its biodiversity under threat due to some 354 mining tenements encroached in almost 50% of its total land area, covering forest ranges of Mt. Bulanjao which is a protected area and falls under ‘core zones’ which should not be open to any development activity, and 90% of ancestral lands. (Impact Asian Magazine for Human Transformation 45(7), 2011) There are laws concerning on the preservation of Palawan’s biodiversity. One of these is the Republic Act No. 7942 otherwise known as the Philippine Mining Act of 1995. This act declares that all mineral resources in public and private lands within the territory and exclusive economic zone of the Republic of the Philippines are owned by the State.It shall be the responsibility of the State to promote their rational exploration, development, utilization and conservation through the combined efforts of government and the private sector in order to enhance national growth in a way that effectively safeguards the environment and protect the rights of affected communities. It sought to arrest the slump of the mining industry by providi ng a framework by which investments in mineral exploitation must operate, so as not to repeat the mistakes of the past which caused many of the mines to close shop. (Ballesteros, 1997) On the other side, the law was opposed by environmentalists, social activists and indigenous people organizations.The law is based on Article XII of the Philippine Constitution and thus mandates the State to manage the country’s mineral resources as owner and administrator, and to control and supervise exploration, development and utilization of mineral resources. The law reiterates the Constitutional provision that only the government may grant mining rights to individuals and corporations. (http://www. forestpeoples. org) In addition to this, the government has approved 180 Mineral Production Sharing Agreements (MPPAs), 70 exploration permits, 126 industrial sand and gravel permits, and five special mineral extraction permits including two Financial and Technical Assistance Agreements (FTAAs) under previous mining laws. (Estropia, E. J. , 2012) Another is the Republic Act 7661 or Strategic Environmental Plan (SEP Law).It is known as a comprehensive frame-work for the sustainable development of Palawan compatible with protecting and enhancing the natural resources and endangered environment of the province. It shall serve to guide the local government of Palawan and the government agencies concerned in the formulation and implementation of plans, programs affecting the environment and natural resources of Palawan. SEP has established a graded system of protection and development control over the whole of Palawan, including its tribal lands, forests, mines, agricultural areas, settlement areas, small islands, mangroves, coral reefs, sea grass beds and the surrounding sea which is known as the Environmental Critical Areas Network (ECAN) and shall serve as the main strategy of the SEP. (http://pnni. wordpress. om) Despite of the presence of these laws, companies are still b eing granted authorization to mine in core protected areas and mining corporations have been able to grab massive land areas for mining metal ores through this act. Mining is a very destructive activity to all forms of life. The fact that it will casts vast excavation of land which mining corporations perform not in lowland areas but in the location where dense forests exist on various mountain and mountain ranges shows how big the total damage it may cause in the environment. The main thing that is being affected by mining is the nature encompassing all the biotic and abiotic organisms that exist in the surrounding area where mining is being held. In mining, it cannot be conducted without affecting the land, water, and air surrounding the site, as well as the various natural resources found in them.It involves the extraction of minerals and because of this then there is destruction of wildlife which may also result in health problems. Then there are the disasters that can happen fr om the cutting of trees, erosion, and other accidents from mining structures. Thus, it is important for mining companies to practice the concept of â€Å"Responsible Mining†. In a statement given by Godfrey Oliphant, Deputy Minister of Mineral Resources of South Africa, 2012, â€Å"Responsible mining is something that develops the economy and its people and recognizes the delicate balance between mining and the environment. Responsibility in mining gives priority to the health and safety of workers and surrounding communities. † (Malanes, M. , Caluza, D. , Cimatu, F. 2012) In responsible mining there must be a positive effect on the Philippine economy. Whatever environmental problems that mining companies are facing must be remediated. Moreover, there must be progress seen in the surrounding community like construction of schools and hospitals. However, most mining companies do not apply these concepts that is why adverse effects in the ecosystem are being felt by the present species of animals, plants and as well as humans. First and foremost, mining affects the land that is being converted to a mining site. Since mining companies perform mining in the virgin forests of Palawan, the trees are being cut down.Cutting down trees would cause destruction of the whole forests. Without trees, the area is prone to erosion and when heavy rain strikes, there will be flash floods which could cause death to the residents living near the mine site. Thus, there will be deforestation and loss of wildlife habitat. Given that most animal and plant species are living in the forests, devastating their habitat will cause them to leave and change the way they live. Animals will try to find new ways in order to survive in the new environment that they are encountering. However, soon enough and they will not be able to cope with the changes, they will die. Their number will decrease and soon only few will be alive.This causes endemism. Ecologically speaking, the flora and fauna of Palawan will decline, thus contributing on decreasing its level of biodiversity. In order to recover some ores located within and beneath the layers of soil and rocks, miners use huge machineries that destroy the big rock deposits. In doing this, dust is produced within the process which contributes on air pollution. The dust greatly affects the quality of the air being inhaled by humans. The dust which was released may contain greenhouse gases like methane. Also, other toxins that were released like sulphur dioxide will combine into the air and when it precipitates, the rain will be acidic.Another is smog. Smog when inhale can cause shortness of breath and serious coughing. Another effect of mining in land is that it causes declination in agricultural production. The main livelihood of the people in Palawan is through agricultural crops specifically rice production. However, when mining started to strike in their land, there has been a decrease in their total harvest due to the mine tailings that have scattered throughout their plantation. The laterite that came from mining waste was deposited in their field which caused the rice to grow smaller than the usual. One example of mineral which is commonly subject for mining in Palawan is nickel.Nickel, above the natural tolerable level in soil caused reduction in yield of shoots of rye grass (Khalid and Tinsley, 1980). The species of Rice belongs to the family of grasses which is supposed to composed of sturdy plants. Nickel also reduced the growth of corn (Huillier et al. 1996) and higher concentration of Nickel in the germinating seeds of cabbage, lettuce, millet, radish, turnips and wheat cause reductions in root elongation (Carlson et al. 1991). Similarly, elevated levels of nickel in higher forms of flowering plants such as rice for instance, blocks cell division in the pericycle of roots, resulting in the inhibition of root branching (Seregin and Kozhevnikova 2005).Likewise, the toxic effects of Cr on plant growth and development are in the germination and growth of roots, stems and leaves, hence, its yield. In addition, Cr causes harmful effects on photosynthesis, water relations and mineral nutrition by direct effects on enzymes and anti-oxidants (Shanker et al. 2005). Hence, the abovementioned effects would definitely impact on plant growth and productivity. (Regis, E. , 2011) Aside from the effects of mining in land, it also affects the bodies of water near it and the aquatic ecosystems were the marine species are living. When mining disturbs the layers of soil and rocks, the process scatters toxic heavy metals contained in these layers and become mixed with loosened soil and tailings.Through mining, these metals become concentrated in surface soil and brought downslope by heavy rains and typhoons in tropical environments. In island ecosystem with steep slopes, these toxics reach the sea and kill marine organisms in marine habitats. (Regis, E. , 2011) Due to the late rite that flows through rivers and to the seas, it covered the natural habitat of fishes and other marine organisms and these are the coral reefs. Coral reefs serve as the breeding ground for most fishes and food for various fishery resources. After the invasive flow of laterite to the seas, the coral reefs look like a rusty piece of metal which means that it is already dead and useless.And because the corals were already dead due to the polluted water, species of fishes as well as other marine animals living in that area will have no habitat. They will not be able to reproduce since there are no more breeding grounds. The water will not be suitable for these organisms and light will not be able to pass through and the sea grasses which are covered with laterite will not be able to propagate. Laterite will also fill the gills of the fishes which is the main cause of fill kills. Not only sees but also rivers were victims of mining. Other mine wastes flow in the rivers thus making it a dead river. Severe outcomes will be encountered by humans and other forms of life when mining in Palawan continues. However, the most adverse effect is the destruction of the environment.Because of this, there will be a decrease in the flora and fauna of Palawan. The once known to be the most diverse province in the Philippines might lost its title due to the impact of mining on the forested areas, social community and aquatic ecosystem. If mining operations will continue, pollution whether in air, land or water will get worse. The endemic species in Palawan might soon be vanished, and the numerous species of today will be classified as extinct tomorrow. Also, the biodiversity sites like the Tubbataha Reef National Park and the Puerto Princesa Underground River which are known around the world will be destroyed. With all of this, the biodiversity level of Palawan will decline.The people who are benefiting on the natural resources of the province will also be affected. There will b e a change in the food and services they acquired. Since their primary source of livelihood is farming, pollution of the soil will produce no crops. There will also be less employment. The water that they are taking will not be potable due to chemical deposits that pollute the water. The fishes recovered by the fishermen will not be enough to supply the food of the people and if there is fill kill then sea foods will be inedible. There will be diseases due to pollution like skin diseases. If the people were able to eat any crops containing metal minerals from mine waste then they will be sick.In addition to this, there will also be geological vulnerability. Philippines lies near the Pacific Ring of Fire, if mining will continue then there will be more and more excavation of land and conversion of mountainous areas to plains, when this happens the formation of the plates will be destructed. Any time, there will movements of plates that could cause high intensity earthquakes and could cause a tsunami since Palawan is surrounded with water. Admittedly, the Philippines is below par when it comes to international practice of water and toxic waste management at mining sites. The already disastrous legacy of mining in the Philippines will, it is feared, worsen.The international community should take stronger action in order to regulate mining particularly, near sea level mining that might be easily inundated as sea level rises and all mining in monsoon/typhoon /hurricane affected zones. (Impact Asian Magazine for Human Transformation 45(7), 2011) The continuous mining in Palawan will cause degradation of the soil, denuding of the forests and extinction of animal and plant species thus lowering its’ biodiversity. Hence, mining should be stopped in order to avoid the possible effects above which can be experience by the whole province. Another is in order to conserve the natural species of Palawan including all the animal and plant species that are found only in the province.The rules and regulations which are being implemented must be revised in order to inspect every mining application that tends to build a mining site in the province and the current mining tenements as well. Further land excavation must be put to an end and the mine wastes that mining companies created must be cleaned. The mountains that they cleared must be replaced with new trees. Also, the wastes on the rivers and on the seas must be removed. What else must the environment have to experience in order to stop the mining in Palawan? Would it be okay to let the numerous species of today be classified as extinct tomorrow? Is it just to take the risk of having a progressive economy than to preserve the treasures of the country? Should mining be stopped or just wait for nature to hit back?

Bcom275 Legalization of Marijuana

Debate Paper Legalization of Marijuana Cannabis, also referred to as marijuana, is the third most popular recreational drug, behind only tobacco and alcohol, in the United States (Whitehouse. gov, 2013). Efforts to legalize marijuana as medicine and recreational use in the United States have grown exponentially in recent years. According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) marijuana may help decrease nausea, stimulate appetite, and decrease pain (2006). Alternately, the American Medical Association (AMA) does not support smoked marijuana as medicine (1995-2013).With such conflicting opinions around this highly controversial drug, there are many questions to be answered in order to decide the steps the federal government can/should be made for a final resolution. Argument For Nearly one in ten Americans used marijuana in 2010; however, our nation spends over seven billion per year to enforce the illegalization of this natural substance. A recent poll taken in 2011 shows marijuan a has increasingly become the preferred drug for Americans. Overall, 6. 9 percent, or 17. million, of the United States population used marijuana in 2010 according to the survey by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (Increase Use of Marijuana, 2011, para. 2). Dr. Jeffrey Miron, an economics professor at Harvard University, completed a study which determined the approximate cost of enforcing the illegalization of marijuana. The report estimates legalizing marijuana would save, â€Å"$7. 7 billion per year in government expenditure on enforcement of prohibition. $5. 3 billion of this savings would accrue to state and local governments, while $2. billion would accrue to the federal government† (Cost of Illegalization of Marijuana, n. d. ). The United States has been engaged in a losing battle against marijuana since the implementation of the Uniform Narcotic Act in the 1930's (Bonnie & Whitbread, n. d). We are not only wasting $7. 7 billion per year, b ut losing potential revenue. Americans could stand to profit a substantial amount of income if marijuana were to be legalized and regulated by the Department of Agriculture. â€Å"Revenue from taxation of marijuana sales would range from $2. billion per year if marijuana were taxed like ordinary consumer goods to $6. 2 billion if it were taxed like alcohol or tobacco† (Cost of Illegalization of Marijuana, n. d. ). Marijuana is not addictive and has a stark contrast of addictive properties when pitted against the addictive characteristics of legalized tobacco and alcohol. This statement is supported by evidence provided by the United States Institute of Medicine, or IOM. The IOM states â€Å"fewer than one in 10 marijuana smokers become regular users of the drug, and most voluntary cease their use after 34 years of age.By comparison, 15 percent of alcohol consumers and 32 percent of tobacco smokers exhibit symptoms of drug dependence† (Supporting evidence, n. d. , para. 2). The IOM also observed cannabis withdrawal symptoms are rare and do not require substitution medicine to stop usage. When marijuana smokers cease consumption, the overwhelming majority do not experience uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms demanding re-initiating use of marijuana according to the IOM. President Richard Nixon commissioned the National Commission on Marijuana and Drug Abuse in 1972.The primary objective the commission was to expose dangers of drug use and provide a detailed report on marijuana. Nixon's commission issued a report titled, â€Å"Marijuana: A Signal of Misunderstanding,† which reviewed existing marijuana studies and determined marijuana does not cause physical addiction (National Commission on Marijuana, 1974). Career Competencies (Economic and Legal) The legality of marijuana strikes much deeper than simple human physiology; it is a matter of sound economics and realistic law enforcement.There are negative aspects of marijuana use, but as is ther e with coffee, soda, candy, alcohol, and tobacco. Americans need to revaluate old rhetoric where marijuana was deemed evil and a gateway drug. The only reason marijuana could be considered a gateway drug is because often time’s consumers are exposed to shady drug dealers on a substance deemed as illegal. If Americans opened their eyes and minds to see how much money and effort is wasted to fight a losing battle become aware of how much could be profited from the legalization of marijuana the decision is straightforward; marijuana should be legalized.Argument Against Contrary to popular belief, marijuana is addictive, and can lead to other health problems such as; lung cancer, low sexual drive (libido), and of utmost importance is to address the concern of marijuana as a â€Å"gateway† drug. Addiction has been redefined and continually evolving for decades. Whether a given substance is defined as â€Å"addictive† in a given society or culture, has to do largely w ith social custom and political convenience. Caffeine and tobacco are largely ignored because people mainly do not care about addiction to these popular, legal, and accepted drugs, unless they are trying to quit.According to the American Psychological Association, APA, addiction â€Å"is a condition in which the body must have a drug to avoid physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms† (2013). Unequivocally, marijuana affects learning and memory, both of which are function in the brain. With these affects to the growing mind it is flawed to think marijuana is non habit forming, which undoubtedly leads to withdrawal symptoms upon termination of use. Marijuana is sex-inhibiting. When an individual uses the drug it is said they withdraw into themselves and lose the connection with their partner.Research into this phenomenon dates back to the 1970’s in which one report showed it reduces testosterone enough to impair the libido in many women and in some men. According t o this research, some of the responses included: â€Å"My boyfriend and I have smoked (fairly heavily) for the past year and I would say that it 100% has a terrible effect on our sex life. It’s been a huge libido killer for our relationship†; â€Å"As I’ve continued to use marijuana (been almost five years smoking now) it’s inhibited sex for me more and more† (Castleman, 2012).Furthermore, there is scientific evidence to support that long-term marijuana smoking alters the reproductive system. The gateway theory postulates the use of less harmful drugs (such as marijuana) may lead to future risk of using more dangerous hard drugs. To test this theory a group of researchers in Sweden administered rats the equivalent of the THC (the chemical found in marijuana delivering the â€Å"high†) in one joint to lab rats.After this administration of THC the rats were allowed access to heroin by pressing a lever. According to this study, the rats who wer e administered the THC took larger doses of heroin than the rats who did not receive the THC injection (Ellgren, 2007). Upon inspection of the rat’s brain, it was discovered the brain cells associated with positive emotions were altered by the THC dosage, thus lending the need for higher drive for more heroin than those without the THC.Ethical Issues More research is needed in order to legislate the use of marijuana. Contemporary medicine and pharmacology are based upon the application of scientific principles and extensive clinical research to determine the safety and efficacy of a drug. Marinol, a synthetic version of the naturally occurring component of marijuana, is a well accepted, well researched, and more effective treatment than marijuana (Kraus, 2007).This approved drug, like marijuana, helps alleviate chronic pain, reduces chemotherapy-related nausea, and with HIV/AIDS treatment it helps with symptoms known as â€Å"wasting syndrome†. Many proponents of legal izing marijuana for these specific illnesses have not looked into marinol as a safe alternative. As a matter of fact the only difference between marinol and marijuana is that marinol does not stimulate the â€Å"high† associated with marijuana. Career Competencies (Psychology) Psychologists from all over the United States attest to the negative effects of cannabis.According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) a cannabis user can develop; cannabis intoxication- development of maladaptive behavior that developed shortly after or during cannabis use; cannabis intoxication delirium- a disturbance of consciousness with reduced ability to focus, sustain, or shift attention; cannabis-induced psychotic disorder, with delusions- prominent hallucinations or delusions in excess of those usually associated with the intoxication; and cannabis-induced anxiety disorder- prominent anxiety, panic attacks, or obsessions or compulsions that causes significant dist ress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning American Psychiatric Association, (2000).The DSM has other classifications for cannabis use; however the mental disturbances highlighted promote the more severe effects of continued marijuana use. Conclusion Marijuana has the reputation of being a gateway drug, although not every heroin addict started out smoking marijuana. Marijuana is prohibited and it puts individuals in circumstances where they are exposed to harder drugs, therefore if the FDA had regulations on marijuana, those individuals would never have to be exposed to those situations. In regards to the effects of marijuana, like a low sex drive, just like every medication whether it is over the counter or prescribed, there will be side effects which will affect everyone differently. Marijuana has the ability to alleviate aliments such as nausea, and other types of pain.Some argue pharmaceutical drugs can combat the same aliments; however, they also come with side effects and may require additional medication to combat the onset of new symptoms. Taxation of marijuana alone would help the economy. The fact the U. S. is wasting 7. 7 billion dollars enforcing the prohibition of the substance is persuasive enough in its self, as well as the potential revenue brought in by taxing the substance like tobacco or alcohol. Keeping marijuana illegal is only keeping drug dealers in business. While law enforcement continues to chase these petty drug dealers it is costing our taxpayers millions of dollars to put and keep drug dealers behind bars.The legalizing of marijuana would benefit the economy greatly, therefor marijuana should be legalized. The use of Marijuana and Cultural difference between Japan and The United States The history of Cannabis in the country of Japan can be traced back to 300 – 500 BC. Cannabis was a widely used plant for the majority of Japanese culture and daily lives. Cannabis fibers were used to no t only create baskets and fishing tools, but were also used in creating divine clothing for the Emperor’s. Burning of cannabis was also used for old traditions, for example rooms of worship were purified by burning cannabis leave by the entrance. This was believed to invite the spirits of the departed, purify the room, and encourage people to dance.Japan’s cultivation of Cannabis came to a halt at the end of World War II when allied forces occupied and began to help rebuild Japan. It was America General Douglas MacArthur and his colleagues who re-wrote the Japanese constitution in 1948 and mirrored many of the United States laws. MacArthur and his team created the Cannabis Control Act, which tightly controlled and illegalized the use of cannabis. Due to the extreme cultivating of cannabis and its widely uses in daily lives, Western companies found a market with providing synthetic products to replace cannabis. Today, cannabis is a drug guarded and considered taboo amon g the Japanese culture.The use and history of cannabis is all but forgotten within today’s Japanese society, and when it is discovered people have, or are using it recreationally, they are shunned and casted as â€Å"stone-cold drug addicts† (Uno, 2011). Many Japanese people consider marijuana and other ‘hard drugs’ to be the exact same and believe all drugs have the same effect. This ideal thinking of marijuana has lead Japan to be one of the strictest laws and punishments compared to other developed countries. In 1993 a Disc Jockey from New York, Christopher Lavinger, was arrested and was sentenced to 16 months in prison and 35 days in solitary confinement after Japanese police found 1. 5 grams of marijuana, 3. 5 grams of cocaine, and some LSD (Hays, 2009). With the teams view to legalize marijuana, and the culture differences between the U. S. nd Japan, the first step to move towards a ‘Pro-Marijuana’ Japanese country would be to educate th e people on the benefits cannabis can provide. As described above, the financial profit gained would be tremendous and can go back to the people in various ways. The people would also need education on their history of using cannabis within their ancient traditions and target many high-profile figures to support the use of marijuana. Because of the strict laws and taboo views Japan has of cannabis, it would be a hard road, but the understanding and education used properly, Japan could create legislation that would override, or amend their constitution and current laws banning its use. References American Medical Association (AMA). (1995-2013). Retrieved from http://www. ama-assn. rg/ American Psychiatric Association, (2000). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorder (4th ed. ). American Psychological Association (APA). (2013). Retrieved from http://www. apa. org/topics/addiction/index. aspx Argument: Marijuana is not addictive. (n. d. ). Retrieved March 24, 2013, from htt p://dbp. idebate. org/en/index. php/Argument:_Marijuana_is_not_addictive Bonnie, R. , & Whitbread, C. (n. d). The Forbidden Fruit and the Tree of Knowledge: An Inquiry into the Legal History of Historian of American Marijuana Prohibition. Schaffer Library of Drug Policy. Retrieved from http://www. druglibrary. org/schaffer/Library/studies/vlr/vlr3. htm Castleman, Michael. Marijuana's Effects on Sex Vary with Individuals. † Marijuana. Ed. Noah Berlatsky. Detroit: Greenhaven Press, 2012. Opposing Viewpoints. Rpt. from â€Å"Marijuana and Sex: Surprising Results of This Blogger's Informal Survey. † Psychology Today (1 May 2011). Opposing Viewpoints In Context. Web. 8 Mar. 2013. Ellgren, Maria. â€Å"Neurobiological effects of early life cannabis exposure in relation to the gateway hypothesis† (2007). Retrieved from http://publications. ki. se/xmlui/handle/10616/38245? locale-attribute=en Food and Drug Administration (FDA). (2006). Retrieved from http://www. fda. gov /NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/2006/ucm108643. htm Hays, J. (2009).Marijuana, Legal Highs and Illegal drugs in Japan. Retrieved from http://factsanddetails. com/japan. php? itemid=664 Kraus, Mark L. â€Å"Legalizing Medical Marijuana Is Not a Good Idea. † Medical Marijuana. Ed. Noel Merino. Detroit: Greenhaven Press, 2011. Current Controversies. Rpt. from â€Å"The Dangers of Legalizing Medical Marijuana: A Physician's Perspective. † 2007. Opposing Viewpoints In Context. Web. 22 Mar. 2013. Marijuana use rising in U. S. , national survey shows. (2011). Retrieved March 24, 2013, from http://www. reuters. com/article/2011/09/08/usa-drugs-idUSN1E7870N520110908 Olson, D. (1998). Hempen cultrue in Japan. Retrieved from http://www. cannabisculture. om/articles/101. html/ Stirring the Pot: Could Legalizing Marijuana Save the Economy?. (2013). Retrieved from http://www. forbes. com/sites/kellyphillipserb/2012/04/20/stirring-the-pot-could-legalizing-marijuana-save-the-e conomy/ The first report of the National Commission on marihuana (1972): signal of misunderstanding or exercise in ambiguity. (1974). Retrieved from http://www. ncbi. nlm. nih. gov/pmc/articles/PMC1749335/ The White House President Barak Obama. (2013). Retrieved from http://m. whitehouse. gov/ondcp/marijuana Uno, M. (2011). WEED CRISIS: Enter Japan's Void. Retrieved from http://www. thestarklife. com/2011/06/17/weed-in-japan/

Recent incidences of corporate or banking scandals Essay

Recent incidences of corporate or banking scandals - Essay Example The stakeholder and societal implications were all negatively reflected towards that corporation and Mozilo himself. This is because the stakeholders of the company both primary and secondary lost faith in its operation. The secondary stakeholders were bitter and castigated the role of Mozilo in the subprime mortgage crisis. The stakeholder lost the trust they had in the corporation as the next few days the Country Financial was on the national spotlight concerning the friends of Angelo. The societal implications are that the Country Financial lost its entire business acumen in a single fault. It was now associated with many fraud and corruption on a large scale. Mozilo compensation had earlier come under scrutiny. Angelo Mozilo was charged by the U.S. Exchange and Securities Commission with securities fraud and insider trading. This made the societal implication on the corporation lead to tarnishing of the company’s name. Also, it led to the nationwide problem with the mortga ge crisis and this had adverse societal implications. It negatively affected the mortgage sector. The source of those scandals The source of the scandal can be termed as improper assessment on the part of the auditors. Additionally, there has been separation of ownership and management for corporations. This is strategically seen in that the management that was supposed to oversee the actions of the chief executive officer Angelo Mozilo was not working. This management is obviously the United States government that was actually working with the culprits in establishment of these particular noncompetitive rates at the well known Countrywide Financial. There...This has gone on to be a major problem since the level of control by politicians on leaders and presidents of large companies is overwhelming. This in the end of the day makes the managers, CEOs and the chief executives like Angelo seem weaker and puppet to these politicians. This makes them to go cahoots with them since they do not have a choice or the deals are very sweet. This should be limited thoroughly by the use of legislation and policies that are relevant and applicable with this particular matter. The degree of this fraud crime was very colossal. Angelo Mozilo was charged fines that amounted to $67.5 million and was forced to accept a lifetime ban. This ban was implemented so that he will never serve as a director or officer of any public or private company. This is a meager settlement with the Securities and Exchange Commission since he is one of the people responsible directly for the 2008 financial crisis. He should have been jailed without any chances of parole so as to teach the rest of the CEOs and the directors of public companies not to repeat the same mistake again. Civil settlements should not have been applied in this scenario. This is because the event of the $67.5 million settlement saw to it that $20 million was paid by Countrywide Financial. This is because there was an indemnification agreement that existed between Countrywide Financial and Angelo’s employment contract.

The Worlds Most Ethical Companies Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 2

The Worlds Most Ethical Companies - Essay Example It also merged with the Quaker Oats Company in 2001. Currently, the company is distributing and providing food and beverages in more than 200 countries in the World. The PepsiCo Company produces several products that gain a large market share in the market compared to other products. Their main product categories include soft drinks, snacks, side dishes, rice snacks, cereals, energy drinks, coffee drinks and breakfast bars. PepsiCo’s business success is as a result of their moral responsibility and treatment to customers, employees and the environment. The company has appropriate and perfect treatment strategies to customers and employees. In addition, it is sensitive to environmental conservation and prevention of environmental pollution (PepsiCo, 2014). First, PepsiCo Company relates well with its customers. This enhances increased sales and improved relations with the customers. The company is socially responsible and sustainable and has a sound advertising strategy with more than forty slogans and songs. These slogans and songs are keys advertising strategy that the company incorporates. Secondly, the company offers promotion to its customers. This is a good strategy of improving customer relations. Late in 2003, Pepsi joined hands with Apple computers and announced promotion that would give one hundred million songs to Pepsi consumers. These free songs were from Apple’s iTunes music store which is a digital music download provider. The promotion initiative places specific codes in one litre bottles of Pepsi, Diet Pepsi, and Sierra Mist. The winning codes get free songs in the iTunes music store. The promotion is an example of PepsiCo’s strategy of capturing young customers. PepsiCo has three Pepsi zone lounge in California, Florida and Illinois. These lounges feature plasma TVs screens, couches, video games and computer stations. Everything in the lounge is free except the Pepsi vending machine which carries a variety of Pepsi

Google Case Study Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Google Case Study - Essay Example Employees at Google work in teams, and are rarely assigned to an independent office.   In fact, even cubicles are frowned upon.   Teams are encourage to work together in what is dubbed ‘cubes, yurts, and huddle rooms’ where each person can share ideas with one another.   There is no competition to do better than the next person, as the teams success is what really matters.   To engage employees, the atmosphere is pleasant and conducive to discussions and conversations taking place everywhere.   Even going from one place to another within the same facility is made a bit entertaining, and time efficient, as bicycles or scooters are provided throughout.   In addi-tion, there are items such as lava lamps, massage chairs, and large inflatable balls to help em-ployees feel comfortable in whatever work environment they may find themselves in.   Google is also different from many large companies in that all levels of staff are really treated equally.   In fact, e ven new employees are encouraged to make decisions that even upper management will buy into.   Upper managers are approachable and do not use titles.   In essence, Google is naturally like any other company in that they have a hierarchy and system of seniority, but it is not utilised in the daily decision making process.   If one individual needs assistance, they will engage the employee that they feel can provide them with the best possible assistance, without considering one’s actual job title or time of service with the company.   This has worked to fully engage em-ployees that work for Google.

Initial Public Offering Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Initial Public Offering - Research Paper Example Underwriting firms assist the issuer in the IPO process by determining what type of security to sell to the public, how much to sell, and at what price to sell. One example of a large, strong private company that sought to become public is Google, which first sold shares to the public on August 19, 2004 at a price of $1.67 billion, fewer than ten percent of the total shares of the company, which made employees at Google instant millionaires (Webb, 2004). Like Google, Twitter is another successful, new internet company that faces the choice of whether to go public. However, the decision to go public is complicated by the issue of the method of selling those first shares to the public: whether in an auction, online format like Google, or in a traditional format like other kinds of new companies. Twitter is a microblogging service that allows users to post updates. It was founded by Evan Williams under the banner of â€Å"Odeo† (Carlson, 2011). When Apple’s new iTunes made the new product worthless, Evans and his friends Biz Stone and Jack Dorsey created the concept for Twitter. Together with Noah Glass, who developed the idea for Odeo, development began on the new concept, which meant more employees, a new office, and investors. Glass developed the name â€Å"Twttr† that eventually evolved into â€Å"Twitter†. Five years after Odeo’s initial founding, $5 million in investments had increased in value by one thousand percent, to nearly $5 billion. Given Odeo’s (and now Twitter’s) original context, it seems that the investor class most interested in the company are the kinds of analysts who were initially attracted to the promise of Google. Today, the investor class that might be interested in the public promise of Twitter may not be so different from those who were originally interested in the concept of Odeo. Nevertheless, Evan Williams bought back most of the ownership in Odeo before its share prices skyrocketed, w hich narrowed the original investment pool considerably. Some of those original investors, knowing they missed a one thousand percent spike in prices, were part of the Silicon Valley demographic that invest in the early stages of hot new internet companies with the next great idea. Considering the progress that a privately held Twitter has made in its young history, it seems that the investors who might be interested in holding the company as public shareholders may belong to larger funds and investment bankers, rather than the relatively minor, private shareholders that Twitter was accustomed to appealing to in its younger days. Clearly, an IPO of a company such a Twitter, which has substantial private assets, would create a large splash in the worldwide markets. Although the company may not be in critical need of financing for its short-term projects, an IPO would dramatically increase the market share of the company relative to its competitors. In the traditional IPO, an investme nt bank underwrites the issuance of shares to the public by determining the price and amount of shares to be dealt. The underwriter then shops the shares around to wealthy institutional investors; based on their reception, the underwriter will allocate shares and collect a percentage of the IPO. This method is incredibly effective because it happens primarily behind closed doors with entities that handle a considerable

1. Will Social Media Democratize the Arab World What role if any do Essay

1. Will Social Media Democratize the Arab World What role if any do social media play in the current social unrest in many Arab countries - Essay Example Internet has created an outlet where the young people can interact and even organize themselves around a specific cause (Ghannam 14). Besides it is easier for the dissenting groups and organizations to target the young people via internet (Ghannam 15). Internet has broadened the horizons of the Arab youth that was till now methodically managed and constrained by the more co-opted traditional media. Internet has created a space where dissent can get registered without invoking a direct threat. 3. The US indeed supports the Arab social media in the sense that it extensively politicizes the digital activism in the Arab world, thereby bolstering the zeal of the political activists, without making way for the commensurate safety measures and provisions (Ghannam 18). Though the US professes the internet freedom to be central to its foreign policy, the entire initiative appears to be a sham and double faced in the sense that the US in no way intends to destabilize the political status quo in the friendly Arab dictatorships and monarchies (Ghannam 18). 4. The social media is still at a very nascent stage in the Arab world. However, in a long term context, the social media could be positively expected to have a significant and discernible impact on the masses in the Arab world. Social media has not only increased the magnitude and frequency of people’s access to the divergent view points and possibilities, it has also changed the form and manner in which the people engage with these view points (Ghannam 23). Though social media on its own could not be expected to bring out an immediate political change, it will certainly make way for the emergence of a popular mindset and the requisite institutions, which will facilitate political change in the long run. 5. The internet in the Arab world is indeed acting as a catalyst of change in the sense that it has extended a space to the voices and agents of change, where they can express

The developments of the laptops Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

The developments of the laptops - Essay Example Nobody can think in terms of carrying a desktop with them while travelling for business purposes. â€Å"Of course, the main benefit of a laptop is the portability. This can be a huge benefit, allowing you to take your computer to and from work, on planes, on camping trips, and practically anywhere else† (Laptop vs. Desktop, 2010). Laptops can be accommodated in a suit case or carry bag easily and because of superior battery power, it can be used at places where electricity is not available. â€Å"Laptop and the social network have become very essential to our teenagers. Internet makes it possible to connect them with their interest. Many of them like to spend their time in front of a laptop, having an internet connection† (Laptops, Internet, Social Networking And Their Influence On Teenagers, 2010). The increasing popularity of social networking sites will increase the popularity of laptops further in future. This paper briefly analyses the possible future developments which can take place in laptop market. The Future of Laptops The future of laptops is unpredictable. Many people believe that a pocket sized laptop with all the computer facilities and communication technologies may evolve in near future itself. Moreover, pocket sized laptops are going to conquer the lives of the people because of the huge developments in computer technologies and nano technologies. Nano technology is developing rapidly and many people are of the view that the processing power of the microprocessor chips is going to increase as a result of that. Moreover, the size of the laptops may also be considerably reduced. Even a small chip can handle thousands of gigabyte data if nano technology developed properly. Under such circumstances, the sizes of the storage devices used in laptops are going to be reduced. â€Å"One of the most recent trends in laptop technology is the touch screen. These laptop companies are vastly producing a good majority of their laptops now integ rated with touch screens† (Helphrey, 2011). Touch screen mobile phones are already in the market. Touch screen technology is going to capture the laptop industry as well. New operating systems are supporting touch screen technology which is a blessing for the laptop manufacturers. â€Å"All of the major semiconductor companies are trying to create powerful processors that use very low-voltage†(Bajarin, 2011). In other words, laptops with higher battery life are possible. Current laptops are offering maximum 6 to 8 hours battery life. However, with the introduction of new technologies laptops which may work even up to 24 hours with the help of battery alone are possible. It is not necessary that the designs or the shapes of the future laptops would be the same as that of the current ones. Revolutionary changes in design, functionality and performances are waiting for the future laptop users. Laptops with the size of a mobile phone are going to enter the market very soon. Thickens, weight, length, breadth etc of the current laptops are going to be reduced very much. Dell recently unveiled one of their interesting netbooks recently. â€Å"At first look, you might think that this is just a tablet device, but you'll be surprised to know it is also a netbook. Flipping the screen from within the frame will display the keyboard and turns this device into a netbook† (Tuvie: Design of the future, 2011). Rolltop design is another interesting model proposed for future laptops. Some of the proposed future laptop designs are given below. (How Laptops May

Gang Violence in American Schools Essay Example for Free

Gang Violence in American Schools Essay Did you ever have to move because your kids were bullied at school? Is the community you are living in is unsafe with gang violence and you were afraid your kids will grow up to be a notorious gangster? You believe the ideal place to raise a family is in a higher income suburban area where the school system is better and your kids will be free from violence. You might want to think again. In fact, youth â€Å"gangs, now more violent than ever, are spreading to new locations† (Gaustad, 1 ) all across the country, including public schools. Gangs are moving suburban areas to recruit more members to expand their gang group. They are using new members to distribute drugs because it is appealing to young children and profitable. It is causing an increase in violence in schools because other gang group does not get along with another set of gang. Kids are scared to go to school because they are afraid they might get bullied and attack. The dropout rates has increase, more weapons are being brought to school endangering lives. School properties are being vandalized with school logos and teachers are getting injured from trying to intervene (Capozzoli and McVey, 81). Gang violence in school are getting worse that school officials, community members, and law enforcements are coming together to figure out solutions. The three solutions that seems to be showing a great impact in reducing gang violence in American schools are school uniforms, peer mediation programs, and after school programs. School uniforms are the first solution that will help cut back gang violence in American schools. Gangs use colors, certain types of clothing, and bandanas to symbolize what group they are from or associate themselves with. Students that are not involved in gangs are unable to walk down the school hallway without being accuse they are involve with a rival gang due to the color shirt he or she may be wearing. School uniforms are typically seen in private or foreign country’s schools to indicate a business-like atmosphere ( Skiba, 10). Now it is becoming more common in public schools because it keeps pupils in similar clothing. The typical school uniforms usually consist of khaki pants and collar shirts. Female pupils are sometimes in a skirt that goes down past their knees. The colors of the collar shirts vary depending on what schools students attend. School uniforms will end gang members from wearing clothing indicating what group they are from. This will help reduce violence between rival gangs because it will be difficult to point out what gang another student associate themselves with. Students will be able to concentrate more on learning than worrying about getting attack. Not only does uniform help reduce the violence but it also help schools bring unity together and help pupils who come from a family with financial difficulty feel less pressure to dress a certain way to fit in (Lopez, 4). The Long Beach Unified School District decided to establish a school uniform policy during the 1990’s to help pupils further their education in an elementary school. The school district had supports from parents who feared for their child’s safety while they were walking to school and mistaken to be a rival gang member due to the color clothing they were wearing. Violence has dropped 86% after the school uniform policy been established for 5 years (Lopez, 4). Murray states,† higher student ratings of the quality of school climate in schools with a uniform policy† after studies was done on two North Carolina schools (qtd. in Zero Tolerance, Zero Evidence, 10). The second solution are peer mediation programs. Peer mediation is a program that involves people who are chosen and educated to resolves issues between individuals that has dispute with one another. The program is used in schools, youth centers, and juvenile justice setting to help young people learn how to solve their conflict through talking it out instead of using violence. Peer mediation programs are used to help decrease lockdowns, suspensions, detentions, and to bring positive atmosphere. Instead of adults trying to diffuse the conflict between young people, the program gives students the ability to help their peer s figure out a solution to their conflict with one another. It also allows the disputers to be more open and able to express why they are conflicting with the other student. Young people tend to feel more comfortable and connect better with people their own age because they feel they won’t be judged. Students are the initiator of confrontations among other students. They have to be neutral and must go through training so they can understand the process. The process of peer mediation are broken down into six steps where the facilitator has to come up with rules that must be followed, hear both sides of the story, determine if it is the same issue causing the problem, suggest solutions that will fix the problem, make sure solution fits the goal of the outcome, and help dispute agree on a solution (Crawford and Bodine, 23). Classical high school in Lynn, Massachusetts has been using peer mediation program for 14 years now and feel that the program will help decrease violence in schools. The program is very important to the school that students have to put an application in and go through an interview process by the coordinator of the program, Miriam Markowitz to become a mediator. Student who have conflict dispute with one another are brought into a private room where the student mediator tries to resolve their issues by easing the pressure off the disputers to act a certain way if they were around their friends. Classical high school reported a â€Å"90 percent success rate† (Weber, 9). When school is out; kids can keep themselves occupied and out of trouble by going to an after school program. After school program is a safe place where kids are supervised, kept busy to drift them away from negative behaviors like gangs and drugs. A lot of the kids who goes to the after school programs lacks adult guidance, or come from a low income family that the parents are working a 12 hour shift and cannot be around to supervise their every move. The staffs at after school programs don’t just help kids with their homework but they build relationships with them and try to guide them in the right direction (after – school activities and clubs). After school programs are not just programs where kids come to do home works and activities, it is also a place where they learn about gang violence, how to prevent involvement. Council for Unity is an after school program located in Riverhead, New York that was developed by Riverhead high school. The program consist of students from different ethnic backgrounds that come together every Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays to talk about what issues are going on in the community, ways to prevent the violence in their schools and to learn about gang violence prevention. The coordinator, Mr. Desenna ask special guest to come by to talk and educate the kids (Council for Unity). Another after school program that is a major success and has been around since 1988 is Roca located in Chelsea, Massachusetts. Roca is a nonprofit organization that works with young people from ages 14 to 24 to help them stay away from gang, teen pregnancy, being incarcerated and graduate high schools. Roca work very closely with young people who are involved in gangs. Staffs from Roca have a program that they call outreach that consist of them walking the streets and trying to build relationships with the gang members. Most of the staffs have gone through incarceration or is an ex-gang member that has turned their lives around and using their experience to influence youths in a positive way. The program â€Å"helped more than 15,000 young people make positive, profound changes in their lives† (rocain.org) Gang violence in American schools is not going to go away overnight but if efforts are put in like: establishing school uniforms, peer mediation programs and providing more free after school programs, it soon will not be an issue facing the school systems. Having positive young people trying to influence their peers will help tremendously. Works Cited Capozzoli, Thomas, and R. Steve. McVey. Gangs and Schools. Kids Killing Kids: Managing Violence and Gangs in Schools. Boca Raton, FL: St. Lucie, 2000. 81-82. Print. Council For Unity. Riverhead.net. Web. 5 Apr. 2011. http://www.riverhead.net/html/RHSnewscouncilunity.html. Crawford, Donna, and Richard Bodine. Conflict Resolution Education. Rep. Champaign,IL: Research, 1996. Print. Gaustad, Joan. Gangs.ERIC Digest. Ericdigests.org. 2005. Web. 29 Mar. 2011. http://www.ericdigests.org/pre-9216/gangs.htm. Lopez, Rebecca A. The Long Beach Unified School District Uniform Initiative: A Prevention-Strategy for Urban Schools. The Journal of Negro Education 72.4 (2003). The Long Beach Unified School District Uniform Initiative: A Prevention-Strategy for Urban Schools. Web. 31 Mar. 2011. http://elibrary.bigchalk.com.proxy6.noblenet.org/elibweb/elib/do/document. Project, – Key. Roca : Who We Are. Welcome to Roca. Web. 12 Apr. 2011. http://www.rocainc.org/about.php. Skiba, Russel J. Zero To lerance, Zero Evidence. Rep. 2000. Print. Weber, Gretchen. Peace among Peers. The Lynn Educator 2008. Print.

Harlington Hotel Business Plan Tourism Essay

Harlington Hotel Business Plan Tourism Essay Critically review the hotel industry, apply strategies, to research and listen to consumers needs and wants. This would have a specific focus on retaining consumers, and providing a strategy of overcoming predicted challenges and to develop realistic financial assumptions and financial plans. The business is to be a new medium size hotel of modern services and facilities. The design of the hotel is to have 60 rooms, reception, waiting lounge, one restaurant, two function rooms, two state of the art conference rooms, one bar, and an indoor swimming pool with a gym. The other side of the business is also having links with the local theatres and as a promotion, those of which stay with us can get tickets to see different shows at half price. The hotel industry is worth just over $30 billion within the UK and has been on the up since 2003. Majority of the people who stay within the hotels is domestic tourists. According to Data Monitor (2007) The UK hotels and motels industry generated total revenues of $34.1 in 2007, this representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.7% for the period spanning 2003-2007. Under the market research conducted 54% of the people asked would stay at a hotel with the offer of 50% per cent discount on theatre tickets, , this shows there is a market and a need for this kind of business as being innovating and new. Two types of research will be conducted. A qualitative and quantitative approach. This will build a foundation and gain an in-depth study of consumers needs and wants for the business. According to Gummesson (2000) an organisation acts in the reality and consists of people. This suggests when gaining a study of consumers needs and wants the business needs to see that people are not just statistics but also they are the ones whose information, can help change the operation of the business in real-time. The two forms of research is Interviews and questionnaires. Research helps to give a variable, and variety of sources to analyse, helping the decision process. Research is the systematic and objective process of gathering, recording and analysing data for aid in making business decisions (Zekmund, 1991). It is essential to have a clear understanding of the philosophical basis for the research strategy selected and this helps to provide the researcher with clarification, focus and consistency of research design. this will be dependent on the research design and the types of evidence we collect (Hines, 2000). Questionnaires and interviews are effective because Studies depended on interviews and questionnaires for their data .. Using questionnaires and interviews obtained statements about opinions and feelings.. Interview behaviour is a form of social interaction and should be analysed accordingly. Verbal data has been made the keystone of contemporary social science (Foddy, 1996) Interviews and questionnaires are highly relevant because it will help identify, if the business will be viable and this type of research is non-expensive. Small firms can benefit from low cost qualitative market research techniques to determine achievable advantageous marketing strategies (Goodman, 1999). Confidentiality of data is important; ensuring persons taking part are aware of what the project is. Researchers have a moral obligation to maintain the confidentiality of the data. In this respect the anonymity of the respondent is crucial and should be respected, by the researchers prior to the collection of the data (McKenna, 2006). 4.0 Industry Analysis Market size The market the business is entering is extremely large as the business is not only going have to compete with hotels, but also other venues of accommodation. This would include campsites, B Bs, holiday centres i.e. Centre Parks and theme parks accommodation e.g. Alton Towers. The data provided by Visit Britain (see appendix 1) there is still a variable market for the hotel industry, as it is showing 23% per cent of tourists staying in hotels within the UK compared to the other forms of accommodation. This percent shows hotels are second choice as 48% would prefer to stay at a friends or relatives house. The business needs to reach out and to be different in order to boost the percentage for the hotel market and lower the FR (friends and relatives) percentage, by providing a high quality level of service and amenities which will outperform the comfort of FRs. Trends within the market The trends of the consumers staying within the UK, the largest amount was mainly for a holiday. According to Visit Britain (2009) it was the largest since 2000 with a 33% increase in 2007. But there has been a decline as in 1995 the numbers of visitors has dropped from 44% to 33%. For VFR there has been an increase since 1995 from 20% to 30% (Visit Britain, 2009). VFR is the only one showing growth within the market, since 1999 it has had an increase of 30% in total but they are not contributing to the accommodation sector (Visit Britain, 2009). Visit Britain (2009) states Business visitors are generally a lucrative target- spending on average  £126 per night,  £514 per visit, and staying largely in paid accommodation (68% in hotels/Guesthouses) Market analysis SWOT analysis This technique provides a framework that enables an organization to assess their position within a market in relation to the competition (Page and Connell, 2006). Strengths of the business is having a variety of rooms, several conference rooms, which are hi-tec, high quality service, training programmes for staff and effective strategies in place. This will help to retain consumers and with research on consumers and competitors, the business will be able to enhance finances. Firms that generate disseminate and meaningfully respond to market intelligence and planning inputs are likely to enjoy enhanced financial performance. (Jaworski and Kohli, 1993). Weakness of the business is mainly signage, as it is not cheap and processes though the council can take time. Other weaknesses are finance. The business will be seeking finance from banks and investors, to help start the business. Such firms, which generate valuable knowledge about both customer preferences and competitor intents by integrating planning and intelligence inputs/views, can optimize the fit between their capabilities and external opportunities and thus achieve superior performance (Novicevic et al, 2004) Opportunities for the business is developing links with other attractions, to help out in further projects within the town especially with the lead up of the 2012 Olympics as this will help to bring in more custom an dalso benefit the local attractions. The Euro is becoming stronger against the Pound forming an era of an affordable England for international tourists, which helps to have the opportunity of develop a good financial stance within the market. According to Day and Nedungadi (1994) the opportunities are intended to provide options for the firms to exercise in order to maximize the fit between its capabilities and future opportunities. Threats for the business are the competition as they will up their game to ensure that a new business does not succeed, especially within a recession. The local authority will be a threat via planning permission may not be given for certain development plans. The idea of these threats is to acknowledge them until resources allows them to be minimised. According to Liedtke (2000) synthesizing process creates value, not only in aligning components, but also in creatively re-arranging them. PEST analysis Political issues for the business is ensuring all licences required are put into place, this includes selling of alcohol, health and safety fire exits, supervision of swimming pool, CBR checks, hygiene certificates, different licences for opening and closing times of facilities. Grants and funding is also an issue as government have made several ways to get a hold of funding for businesses, via the banks. For example, executives evaluating potential mergers or acquisitions must consider antitrust suits and other legal matters, and political issues in addition to financial aspects (Keeney, 1982). Economical issues for the business getting a hold of loans from the banks, but a main concern would be interest and inflation rates, after the current economic climate of the recession, causing unnecessary leakages within the finance budgets of the business. Future implications of alter- natives now being considered should be accounted for in the decision-making process (Keeney, 1982). Sociological issues for the business is more people are staying at FRs more and cheaper holidays are making it harder, therefore gathering and analysing data is imperative to success, for the business. In any case, the process of obtaining and combining the available information is a difficult task that requires balancing all the pros and cons (Keeney, 1982). Technological issues for the business are costly when technology advances are made, and systems have to be updated. This involves changing all computer systems, reprogramming, and retraining of staff. Different individuals, however, have expertise in disciplines such as economics, engineering, and other professions which should be incorporated (Keeney, 1982). This can be offered by having use of the internet, and having a website for bookings, and information about the company and what the business is about, and use information systems within the business. 5.0 Presentation of findings 5.1 Interview overview (To view full analysis see appendix 6) Both of the hotels use different strategies, the Royal hotel uses Revenue management and the Walton park hotel uses a Blue ocean strategy. This is defined as untapped market space, demand, creation and the opportunity for highly profitable growth (Kim and Mauborgne, 2005). The hotels agree, the hotel market has changed, as consumers are becoming lazy and are booking rooms later and later. Customer loyalty is no longer a priority for the market, but the internet has also made this change as it is easier to compare prices, and standards. The Royal hotel has large functions and weddings occurring they have to be able to plan about three months in advance especially with the strategy of RM. Both of the management from the hotels attend conferences to help with new suggestions and the running of the business. For gathering information they use questionnaires which helps to have target market information updated and services can be improved, but Royal hotel says if even though they use questionnaires they are very short answered, and some will give exceptional on very thing which does not help the improvement of the business as they need to have constructive criticism. (Royal Hotel and Walton Park Hotel, 2009) 6.0 Consumer analysis 6.1 Target market identification The research conduct uncovered the target market being C1, C2 and Ds using demographic profiling. The reason for this is because they are more incline to stay in a non-expensive hotel, with a variety of facilities offered, and also due to Weston-super-mare being central, via the motorway and different transport systems available. We are well-served by the M5, mainline railway and Bristol International Airport (BIA) and have an efficient and comprehensive public transport network (North Somerset, 2009). 6.2 Consumer needs assessment Within the business the consumer continuously needs to have the highest level of service. For service organisations the interaction between front-line personnel and the customer is crucial as they aim to create high quality service encounters (Nickson et al, 2005). When providing a high level service for the target market, everyone is different; therefore the needs are not going to be the same, for each person, delivering superior customer value and satisfaction are crucial to the competitive edge of a firm (Kotler and Armstrong, 2000 Weitz and Jap, 1995). For example certain aspects will need to be in place within the business for those who have disabilities, young families with baby changing facilities, those who are diabetic. Many different concepts need to be taken into consideration, for different consumers, the more efficient of establishing customers needs then a good reputation can be established very quickly for the business. Deng (2008) states Customer satisfaction increases customer loyalty, reduces price sensitivity, increases cross-buying and increases positive word of mouth. 7.0 Strategic implementation 7.1 Blue Ocean and Focus strategy A Blue ocean strategy is a way of breaking away from the industry boundaries, going beyond the known and entering the unknown. Kim and Mauborgne (2005) state Blue oceans, in contrast, are defined by untapped market space, demand creation, and the opportunities for highly profitable growth . Most are created from within red oceans by expanding existing industry boundaries. This is applied to the business as having a link with the local theatres is a new and innervating idea, as no other hotel provides this type of service. The business is going into an area which has not been explored before. With this strategy in place for the business, profitability will be more inclined, as the research conducted showed there is a market for it. Companies that create blue oceans usually reap the benefits without credible challenges for ten to 15 years, as was the case with, Southwest Airlines and CNN. Creators immediately attract customers in large volumes (Kim and Mauborgne, 2004). Using Porter generics strategies of a focus strategy this interlinks as the blue ocean strategy for the business needs to focus on its consumers and adapt the products and services to meet the target markets requirements. Using the focus strategy not all consumers are going to want to go to the theatre, therefore using the focus strategy, and opportunities available the business will be able to develop further links with other attractions. An organisations knowledge capabilities determine its effectiveness. As the underlying knowledge processes are highly dynamic, the capabilities used in performing those processes must also be dynamic (Dawson, 2000). 8.0 Management and frameworks 8.1 Management Within the business there will be three sets of management and one general manager. (See appendix 8 for structure). Each manager is to an effect to manage, delegate and organise the department they are in charge of. Meetings will take place every morning for a, debrief followed by an official monthly one. 8.2 TQM framework applied TQM is not an easy process to be applied to an organisation as it can be quite complex. Most business organizations start the implementation TQM programmes with lots of vigour, enthusiasm and perhaps even excitement. The more they move forward with their attempts to change the culture of business thought TQM, the more they realize that it is a hard and very painful process (Zairi, 1994). TQM is a philosophy, as consumers demand it in different ways. This includes the following: Quality of products/services; speed and reliability of delivery; price; innovation and differentiation; and professionalism (Zairi, 1994). For TQM to work, the business is going to ensure all staff having training sessions, and three month appraisals to ensure the service being provided by the staff are to high quality standards. Ensuring there is always a member of staff available for information about the hotel and the surrounding areas, and the reliability to speak to management to sort any issues quickly, effectively and efficiently. Having the opportunity to develop connections with other attractions, as returning consumers may get bored of the same thing, therefore a variety of connections is required to be able to retain custom. Finally all staff members are to act in a professional manner at all times, when dealing with consumers, if any problem occurs, management will be involved and if serious then disciplinarians and taking part in skill develop programs. Customers focus as a basic principle at the heat of and underlying TQM is among the most generally accepted precepts in the work of all quality management (Soltani et al, 2004). 9.0 Financial Sources Within the finance sector there are several ways to be able to set up a business and to gain capital, which can result in long term and short term funding. This involves the following: capital and venture capital; profit retention; borrowing; leasing, hiring and factoring; government assistance; overdraft; and trade credit (Needham and Dransfield, 1992) There are a variety of ways to gain capital; most organisations will use banks where you can gain up to 60% per cent of value and investment plans, depending on how much money and profit available, this is depending on evidence given of the business plan, and proven it is worth investing (Owen, 2009) For the business there will be four types of financial sources to be used, this will be investment from investors, borrowing from the bank, these are going to be long term financing for the business. The short term financing will be a private equity loan, which will be paid back within the first year and also a business overdraft, which is for emergency use only. From appendix 9 of the balance sheets, the profit made will be divided into four sectors this will be reinvestment back into the business itself, separate loan account so the borrowed money gets paid back, payments to investors and finally Inland Revenue corporation tax. This way the business is able to run smoothly and efficiently and have also analysed the finance from 100% full down to 25% per cent full. For buying the hotel itself excluding refurbishment estimation of about  £2.5M  £3M with design and size of the hotel as this is on a basis of the Royal hotel and Walton Park hotel. If looking at buying the Royal Hotel or Walton park hotel then you will be looking at about  £2.5M  £3M without anything done to it, this is an estimation with the current economic climate (Owen,2009) Bibliography Connexions (2009) Job descriptions and salarie. [online] Available from: URL:http://www.connexions-direct.com [accessed 01.05.209]. Datamonitor. (2007) Hotels and motels in the United Kingdom. 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Appendices Amount of visitors staying in different types of accommodation within the U.K. Trends purpose of visit and length of stay Questionnaire Questionnaire results Interview questions Full analysis of interview SWOT and PEST Analysis Management and staffing structure Finances and forecasting Appendix 1 % of Nights Spent by Visitors from all countries by Type of Accommodation, 2007 (Visitbritian, 2009) Appendix 2 Purpose of visit (Visit Britain, 2009) Length of stay (Visit Britain, 2009) Harlington Hotels Appendix 3 Questionnaire for development plans of a new hotel in Weston-super-mare Harlington HotelsThe information about to be given is confidential and will remain anonymous; the questionnaire is designed to help research into a hotel business and to find out about consumer needs and wants to help it become a more realistic approach within customer satisfaction. Male female (please tick the appropriate answer) How old are you? (please tick the appropriate answer) 18 25 26 30 31 40 41 50 51 + What is your occupation? (If unemployed please go to question 4) Please state: If student and employed please state.. How often do you go to W-S-M? (please tick the appropriate answer) Every day Twice a week Once a month Once a year If other please state: How do you get to W-S-M? (please tick the appropriate answer) By car By bus By train By airline via other transport If other please state: . Thank you for your time What sources do you use when looking for a hotel? (please tick the appropriate answer) The internet Media Guide books National/international travel agents Go by word of mouth If other please state: .. (Please tick the appropriate answer) How long do you normally stay at a hotel within the UK for? One night Weekend Fri Sun or Sat Sun (please circle ) 5 10 days 11 15 days One month If longer please state: .. What would your main reason be for visiting? (Please tick the appropriate answers) Rest and relaxation VFR (friends and relatives) Business Education (conference, congress, seminar, study, other) Culture Fun Health Religious reasons If other please state: Thank you for your time Below is listed some elements which may be considered when choosing a hotel. Please indicate the IMPORTANCE of each element it is to you when choosing a hotel. Please rate them on a scale 1 being unimportant and 5 being very important. ELEMENTS WHEN CHOOSING A HOTEL How Important is This Element Unimportant very Important I Dont Know Clean and tidy hotel (reception, restaurant etc.) 1 2 3 4 5 Clean and tidy rooms 1 2 3 4 5 Information accessibility 1 2 3 4 5 Information clear and concise 1 2 3 4 5 Catering facilities offered 1 2 3 4 5 Knowledge from staff 1 2 3 4 5 The willingness of staff to help 1 2 3 4 5 Trusted staff 1 2 3 4 5 Friendliness of staff 1 2 3 4 5 The understanding of guests needs 1 2 3 4 5 Additional activities offered by the hotel (sports facilities, entertainment etc.) 1 2 3 4 5 Activities offered within the local area i.e. excursions, trips, theatre shows etc. 1 2 3 4 5 Please rate the general quality when choosing a hotel 1 being low quality and 5 being high quality? Low quality High quality I Dont Know General quality of the hotel and service provided 1 2 3 4 5 Thank you for your time (Please tick the appropriate answer)What services/ facilities would you want/ require from a hotel? Staff who can help and sit down with you if any problems or queries Knowledge of area / other areas Activities to do outside the complex Activities sports, walks, excursions etc Variety of restaurants with different foods Links with local transport operations Pool Gym Variety of evening activities If other please state: . What type of room would you prefer standard or luxury? Please state: What facilities would you expect to have in the room? (Please tick the appropriate answers) En-suite Kitchen Lounge Balcony / terrace If other please state: . How much would you spend per night at a hotel? (Please tick the appropriate answer)  £20  £21  £40  £41 - £ 60  £61-  £80  £80 + Would you stay at a hotel which offered half price theatre tickets? Yes Thank you for your time No Maybe Appendix 4 Questionnaire results Appendix 5 Interview questions What form of custom do you receive? What is the main strategy used for this business i.e. focus, cost leadership, or differentiation? For the hotel industry and for your business do you think loyalty has decreased or increased? What benefits do your loyal consumers receive if any? Has the hotel market changed in recent years? Why? What do you think consumers look for when booking a hotel? The consumers you receive are majority of them returning consumers or different all the time? How important is your target market to the business? W

Television And Child development Essay -- Communication, Media, TV

â€Å"Television† is. An electronic device that receives television signals and displays them on a screen. Is it impossible for any late night TV viewer to miss the infomercials for the numerous DVDs and television programs to help make their child into a genius? I doubt it, if parents were to let their voices be herd I know something will be done because I was taught that I live in a country that was built by the people for the people television has gradually become the most influential media in the development of different patterns of behavior of the viewers, children and adolescents worldwide have grown together with the evolution of the television market. Various studies indicate that the relationship between television and behavior exists, but it has been difficult to identify any causal link. the effects are many and mostly negative. Much of the research has been conducted to test the relationship between television and aggressive behavior, because in some studies on social learning summits conducted by Bandura, Ross and Ross (1963) found that when children were exposed to aggressive models, imitate this kind of behavior in later game situations, especially when involving toys similar to those that were in the televised scenes. Most agree that further research there is a high correlation between exposure to the environment and the aggressive and violent behavior, so does the acceptance of violence of others ( Bandura, 2002). Laboratory studies also indicate that when children are exposed to violent programs later act more aggressively (Paik & Comstock, 1994), it raises blood pressure (Huesmann et al., 1994) and fight more with playmates . In this direction, a study by Boyatzis and Matilla (1995) focused on the effects of a popul... ...es issued an average of 23 commercials per hour, suggesting cereal, cookies, snack foods, soft drinks and candy. That too many food commercials suggest, is partly related to childhood obesity. Moreover, the over-representation of ideal body images may contribute to the problem of anorexia nervosa, especially in adolescents, because of the anxiety it causes. If an overweight child learns how important TV is to maintain the shape of an exaggerated way, will continue to develop complex and consequently diet tips and they say on TV, besides the error values that will be assimilated. More than half of the advertising contains inaccurate information, misleading, or both, but the children believe to be true. So that the TV not only offers but requires experience, conditioning our children as they are the main target towards which led most of the commercials.