Samples of Wedding Jokes

The wedding is considered to be a bright event. There are guests and a happy bride couple that notices only each other. Though, there is a way to turn everything even better. Wedding jokes actually reveal the hidden spirit of the marriage content. Is there a life after the wedding? No one knows; however, the wedding jokes enable to share the sad experience with the optimistic and humorous view. The wedding ceremony and celebration are the idyllic events that launch the further lives of the groom and the bride. There is a lot of fun, activities, and toasts pronounced by the guests. Many of them are the so-called wedding jokes. The mood is cheerful and everybody laughs. However, the objects of jokes are not really pleasant aspects. Nevertheless, they signify the inevitable challenges of our life and the optimism that is needed to pass them as they are. The couple mainly believes that they will manage to omit all these unpleasant issues. However, they are getting acquainted with them beforehand. Among the major topics for the wedding jokes are, actually, the loss of love after the marriage, disgust to the person of own choice, mother-in-law nasty behavior, adultery and greed. These themes aim to laugh about the case that there is nothing good after the marriage – only troubles and disappointment. The first topic is the loss of love. It is widely seen that after the honeymoon the married life becomes a hell: â€Å"When a newly married man looks happy, we know why. But when a ten-year married man looks happy, we wonder why.† â€Å"There was this lover who said that he would go through hell for her. They got married, and now he is going through hell†. â€Å"At the cocktail party, one woman said to another, Arent you wearing your wedding ring on the wrong finger? The other replied, Its because I married the wrong man†. â€Å"Man is incomplete until he’s married. Then he’s finished.† Other jokes concern the greed that emerges when the wedding gifts are considered. The newly-wed had to spend a lot of money for the wedding, so they wait for the worthy presents. Other jokes may concern the financial reasons for the marriage instead of love: â€Å"Married for many years, Paul had been ignored by his wife, Liz, for some days, so eventually he confronted her with what he perceived as the problem. Come on Liz, admit it, he ranted, You only married me because my granddad left me $7 million, didnt you? You really are silly, Paul, retorted Liz loudly, I couldnt care less who left it to you,†. Therefore, there is a plenty of wedding jokes that may be found. Even though they raise laughter, they are written under the real stories – at least, there is an impression that it is so. Every couple has a chance to build the joint life in accordance with the own will and the sense of purpose and love. If people would be aware of the possible mistakes and contribute to their relationships, they would gladly accept that there is no truth for them in the wedding jokes, but more reasons to express love, respect, and caring.

Graduation Speech At St Francis Parish - 917 Words

For as long as I can remember, my parents, brother, and I woke up extremely early every Sunday morning to attend the 8am mass at Saint Francis Parish. During my formative years, I was diligent about going to church, but it was not just my parents ‘forcing’ me to regularly attend. I enjoyed going and looked forward to the experience each week. Until I made my confirmation during my sophomore year in high school, my brother and I were active in the youth ministry, attending weekly meetings for the teens who attended our church. However, things started to change from that point on, especially once I reached college. My first two years living on campus, I made friends with many people who are also practicing Catholics. Each week we would gather for the evening mass offered on campus. I was extremely proud of myself; I was not sure that I would have the diligence to attend mass without my parents’ gentle prodding. This continued until my junior year, when I decided to move off campus. Not having a place of worship two minutes from wherever I was making it all that more difficult to make the weekly trip to mass. Now, I only regularly attend mass whenever I go home for winter and summer break. Unfortunately I am still extremely conflicted in regards to my lessening enthusiasm in the Catholic Church. Over the past few months, I have been drifting further away from organized religion and more into my own spirituality. While I still agree with many of the ideals taught by theShow MoreRelatedEducation And Enlightenment Of The Handicap Essay1652 Words   |  7 Pageswent to the public school that was close to home. Our other brothers enrolled at Holy Redeemer parish school. While attending the Home School, I participated in first communion classes, learning the Baltimore Catechism, and school activities. Both Bobby and Rick attended St. Francis HS. Terry and Tom went to public high school near our home. Upon graduating from St. Francis, Bobby was accepted at St. Mary s College, a teaching order of the Christian Brothers near San Francisco. Bobby s took

Effect of External Factors on Treasury Wine Estates

Question: Discuss about the Effect of External Factors on Treasury Wine Estates. Answer: Introduction Treasury Wine Estates (TWE) is a wine making company headquartered in Southbank, Melbourne it was the wine making division of Fosters Group until a demerger in 2011. It principally operates in four regions globally; Australia and New Zealand, the Americas, Asia and Europe with over 3500 employees and 70 plus wine brands. The company posted a net profit tax of $179.4 million for the year 2016 this was more than double for the previous year (Treasury Wine Estate, 2017). External factors such as politics, economics, social, technology, environmental and legal cases (PESTEL) affect business operations. Political Factors Political factors arise from how the government is involved in the economy, government policy, trade deals, tax policy are some of the political issues that lead businesses to adjust their business strategies to stay profitable. A free trade agreement(FTA) between China and Australia will see tariffs of between 14%-30% on Australian bottled and bulk wine be phased out in four years (ABC News, 2014). The FTA deal boosted TWEs sales and profits in China and their profits have been growing steadily, US$20.6 million in 2014 jumping to US$46.5 million in 2015 and growing by 75.6 % in 2016 (Reuters, 2017, ABC, 2016). Social Factors Social factors are the shared beliefs and attitudes of people. They include population growth, age groups, health consciousness and career attitudes. Marketing departments need to have a good understanding of the social factors to understand consumer behaviors and trends. TWE through the launch of Blossom Hill, 19 Crimes and the Gentlemans collection are targeting male and female millennials aged 18-34 years. Millennials have high disposable incomes and their Friday night drinking culture makes them a lucrative target. TWE group believes this age group to have a potential of about 76million and about 16 million in impulse buying (The Australian, 2016, off license News, 2015). Technological Factors Technology in the 21st century is a must have for any business that wants to be profitable. Technological advances are important in improving quality of goods, reducing costs and improving work conditions of employees. In their Napa Valley vineyards TWE has employed an array of high tech devices to help in managing their crops. The vineyard has weather and plant sensors; a pulse pod can measure precise rainfall, color of the grapes these data is collected and is used to make accurate predictions about plants on the ground. Another great innovation used at these vine yards is the use of drones fitted with high definition cameras that allow farmers to clearly identify pests and sick plants. Early identification gives enough time to take measures that reduce losses (Kolodny, 2017). Environmental Factors Environmental factors in business started being of great concern during the last 15 years. Climate change is a global phenomenon and TWE had to change its business model to accommodate these changes. Viticulture practices were modified such as delaying ripening times to protect the vines from damage (The Weekly Times, 2016). Conclusion External business factors are important in shaping the business model of a business to attain profitability. References ABC News. 2016. Treasury Wine Estate calls on better government cooperation to boost exports to China. [ONLINE] Available at: https://www.abc.net.au/news/rural/rural-news/2016-02-19/treasury-wine-interim-profits/7183520. [Accessed 22 April 2017]. ABC News. 2014. How the China free trade agreement will affect Australian farmers. [ONLINE] Available at: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-11-18/nrn-faces-of-the-china-free-trade-agreement/5896412. [Accessed 22 April 2017]. Lora Kolodony. 2017. Uncorking innovation with Treasury Wine Estate in Napa. [ONLINE] Available at: https://techcrunch.com/2017/02/10/uncorking-innovation-with-treasury-wine-estates-in-napa. [Accessed 22 April 2017]. Off license News. 2015. Treasury Wine Estates target male millennials with Gentlemans collection launch. [ONLINE] Available at: https://offlicencenews.co.uk/news/fullstory.php/aid/15270/Treasury_Wine_Estates_targets_male_millenials_with_Gentleman_s_Collection_launch.html. [Accesses 22 April 2017]. Reuters. 2017. Australias Treasury wine posts record half-year profits in US, China demand. [ONLINE] Available at: https://www.reuters.com/article/us-twe-au-results-idUSKBN15S2IK. [Accessed 22 April 2017]. The Australian. 2016. Treasury Wine Estate Targets young women. [ONLINE] Available at: https://www.theaustralian.com.au/business/companies/treasury-wine-estates-targets-young-women/news-story/9543200c929d841b527d0eb34c4cd69d. [Accessed 22 April 2017]. The Weekly Times. 2016. Treasury Wines has changed its business to manage the risks of climate change. [ONLINE] Available at: https://www.weeklytimesnow.com.au/agribusiness/horticulture/treasury-wines-has-changed-its-business-to-manage-the-risks-of-climate-change/news-story/96fae8195a2fba4cf0602eabbf82cbf3. [Accessed 22 April 2017]. Treasury Wine Estates. 2017. About. [ONLINE] Available at: https://www.tweglobal.com/. [Accessed 22 April 2017].

Kuoni Travel free essay sample

Kuoni Travel Kuoni travel was founded in 1906 by Alfred Kuoni in Switzerland and it has been a long haul tour operator since 1966. Kuoni travel offers dream holidays to over 70 countries in the world. These holidays are luxurious and tailor made to fit the needs and wants of the customers. They offer a range of holidays such as secluded tropical island getaways, once in a life time safari trips and amazing city breaks. They also offer family holidays, all inclusive, beach, golf, spa and wedding packages. Kuoni Travel has gained competitive advantage in the travel services sector using a wide variety of ways. KUONI TRAVEL LTD has grown into not only the largest travel company in Switzerland, but also one of the leading travel organizations in the world†. This statement shows that Kuoni must have a large base of customers who are likely to be loyal and keep returning to enjoy the excellent service and products that Kuoni offers. We will write a custom essay sample on Kuoni Travel or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Despite the economic downturn, the demand for holidays is still very high and in order for Kuoni to compete with the large range of travel agents available to customers they have â€Å"extended and improved their service to customers by increasing the number of tailor made package holidays available on their website. An example of how they have done this is by improving their website. Their website searches the market for flights and accommodations which then combine to form a package holiday and this service was available for departure dates up to 90 days ahead. However they have now increased this period to 150 days to give customers more flexibility which has lead to a significant increase in the amount of holidays being sold. Another way in which they have gained a competitive advantage is by investing in and upgrading to the new Power6 550 power system. This resulted in Kuoni becoming the first business in the UK and Europe which uses this system. The system means they have more storage and CPW on their machines which can process holidays quicker online. Patrick Beagles, IT Support Manager for Kuoni states â€Å"We’ve already achieved our ROI at least 3 times over, going through our Power i system every day during our busy period in January 2009. These are amazing figures in the current economic climate and not many people can say that† In 2008, Kuoni also rebranded their UK brochures to feature the new corporate identity. Award-winning designer Herbert Winkler created the World Class design brochure which would increase business for Kuoni as a stylish and interesting looking brochure is likely to increase customer interest. In April 2008, they opened their first Kuoni Flagship store in Kensington closely followed by a store in Manchester which opened in September 2008. By opening the stylish and smart retail outlets they exceeded expectations and by opening stores in more locations they are improving their brand image as well as making it easier and more convenient for customers to go in and book a holiday. Kuoni also redesigned its internet webpage with an updated look and feel that makes the online booking process easier. Kuoni have specialized sales teams for different holiday categories such as honeymoons, group travellers and the selling of last minute travel offers. This improves the customer service as they have a good knowledge of the particular customer they are dealing with and what they are looking for. If they are able to offer customers a high value of customer service they are increasing their competitive advantage. http://www.kuoni.co.uk/en/services/about_kuoni/Pages/about_kuoni. aspx http://www.kuoni.co.uk/EN/Services/about_kuoni/news/press_releases/Pages/IBM.aspx

Use Our Top Tips For Creating Your Best Exemplification Essay

Use Our Top Tips For Creating Your Best Exemplification Essay Exemplification Essay Writing Tips: Full Guide An exemplification essay is one of the favorite professors’ tasks and sometimes students are really terrified with that assignment. And the reason for that is that professors really enjoy testing your knowledge. In fact, that type of writing isn’t that complicated as it may seem, though one of the rarest and most specific. It’s fair to say that it is a more accurate argumentative essay. More About an Exemplification Essay The definition of an exemplification essay is pretty short and clear, while it requires you to prove your main argument or thesis, provide the reasons and support those arguments by examples. Some professors call it even an illustrative essay since the examples you provide illustrate your point of view. However, almost all argumentative essays are about examples to prove the thesis. So what’s the difference? When creating your classic argumentative essay, you use the evidence to support your main argument or thesis. For that purpose, you use real-life examples, various data or statistics to support your thesis. You can cite various professors or scientists, for example, when writing your argumentative essay and it will be enough. However, it is not enough for an exemplification essay, while such shreds of evidence affirm the thesis but do not support it as a real-life example. So, exemplification essays can be truly considered more precise variations of the argumentative essays. Their aim is to show why a certain opinion is correct through an understandable life example. It is a bit easier to write an exemplification essay than other types of essay, while you have to think of your reader first. Once you make a point, you should have evidence not supporting, but illustrating it. Good evidence for an essay telling about the social media dangers on the young girls’ self-image, for example, could be telling about the girls who rank lower on self-esteem evaluation. This evidence would be very helpful. If you note that social media sometimes is addictive, the example won’t be understandable enough to support your thesis, as well as showing that there are higher amounts of disorders after using social media for pretty long timeframes among girls. It would be better to provide research showing that younger girls are more focused on their appearance as they spend more time on social media networks, for example. Why is this example better? If someone is focused on his or her appearance, it is one of the signs of a damaged self-image. Also, it is possible to provide an example showing how competitive girls are with each other on social media, which also shows their low self-image. In your exemplification essay, you should support the validity of the tota l thesis. How to Create a Good Exemplification Essay: Step-By-Step Guide In order to write a good exemplification essay, you should have a strong plan and outline. Try to have all the points in your mind and work them out to create a tight essay. How to start: Choose a position/argument. Think of at least five reasons to prove the correctness of your position. Point out the strongest ones. Do some research and find evidence (example) for three of the reasons. Your evidence has to be very specific. Read the reasons and examples once again. Now use just once sentence to connect them to the bigger life picture. Format If you have written other types of essays previously, you won’t have any difficulties with your exemplification essay, while it has the same format as all other essays’ types. Introduction and conclusion are mandatory, as well as three body paragraphs. The only difference is about the content of the body paragraphs, while you will have to focus on the evidence and make each piece directly illustrating your point. Outline Introduction: Here you can discuss the social media appearance and some of its advantages. Then softly go to the discussion of its negative aspects. For example: Using social media influences the self-image of young females in a negative way. Young girls are taught to be more competitive by society and that sense of competition among young women is only increased by social media. For example: According to research, young females more actively participate in the â€Å"compare and despair† aspects that develop in social media. There are more accounts of girls having high followings rates in social media in the result of their beauty. For example: according to the studies, when using social media, young females are inundated with unrealistic beauty standards. They claim that it influences negatively their self-image. There are lots of promotions of make-up hacks, products, and tutorials for young ladies in social media. Females are all the time reminded that their appearance is crucial. For example: according to research, young females feel pressured to buy cosmetic products on social media. Conclusion: Social media brings a sense of comparison and competition all the time, it highlights unrealistic beauty standards, and thus, is being toxic for young females. Outline Pattern Introduction A â€Å"hook† sentence that catches attention. Three subject sentences. The thesis statement in the argument. Second paragraph The first reason to support the thesis. An example supporting the reason. Discussion of that example’s importance. Third paragraph The second reason to support the argument. An example supporting the reason. Discussion of that example’s importance. Fourth paragraph The third reason to support the argument. An example supporting the reason. Discussion of that example’s importance. Conclusion State your thesis once again. Summarize three main claims of yours. Connect the thesis to the bigger picture of the future, life, history, society, etc. Topics for Your Exemplification Essay Easy Topics Is it better for students to have rich parents who don’t participate much in his life? Is it better for students to have poor parents who can participate actively in the life of their child? Is it necessary to cancel the SAT exam? Do most people reflect their friends they spend most of their time with? Should smartphone usage be illegal for children under 18? Good topics Is college degree less important today than fifteen years ago? Should population control be enforced by the government to ensure some of the species and planet survival? Do modern technologies or social media cause more incidents of social anxiety? Should children with obesity get mandatory nutritional assistance from the government dieticians? Should smoking become illegal in all public places? Is the young generation damaged by celebrity culture? Topics for college students Should the US army be sent abroad for foreign nations? Should religious organizations pay taxes? Should junk and fast food items be taxed at a higher rate? Should political campaigns accept donations from big corporations? Should the drugs be legalized to make the economy more stable? Should immigration policies in the States be stricter? Topics for high school students Is it necessary to ban politicians from spending high amounts on their campaigns? Should farm animals have more legal protections? Is marriage institution becoming outdated? Should social and religious cults be more regulated by the government? Is spanking children acceptable as a punishment form? Exemplification Essay Example What is Friendship Once two people establish a bond between them, friendship occurs. A healthy friendship includes mutual respect. Both people should care for each other’s fate, as well as physical and emotional well-being. Friendship contains some acts of kindness, for example, which do not require anything in return. People should act in the best interest of the other person. As an example, I want to tell about a young man dumped by his girlfriend. They started relationships when they both were in school and in college already they started to live together. The friend of this man helped him to move out of the hours into a house of his family member, after he discovered his friend was moving out of the house he shared together with his girlfriend. He didn’t require anything in return. A young woman saw her friend’s boyfriend flirt with other women very often. This woman decided not to tell her friend anything just because she didn’t want to harm their relationship. Instead of it, she talked to one of the girls this guy flirted with and asked her to show his girlfriend the text messages he sent her. Thus, her friend found out everything about her boyfriend but this didn’t damage the relationship between two girls. Students in my college often are with their friends when they were ill or had times of grief and didn’t ask anything in return. They might never get the same support back (maybe because it was not necessary) but the friendship remained strong. There are so many real-life examples of friendship in which people do various things without getting rewards in return. The acts of kindness or looking out for the interests of another person happen just because of friendship. The friendship itself is a reward, otherwise caring and kindness of people would be caused only by their self-interest. Conclusion Now you know that exemplification essays can be considered a more precise type of argumentative essay. It is more understandable to the reader while it contains the real-life examples illustrating the thesis or argument so well. Its aim is to show why a certain viewpoint is correct or not. Even an average reader can perceive the information well. But in case you have problems with writing your exemplification essay, our top writers are always ready to help. Our experts can cope with any task, can write an essay from scratch, edit your own essay, or give you fruitful recommendations to improve it and get your best mark!

Boa Constrictor Facts

Boa Constrictor Facts Boa constrictors are reptiles and reside mainly in Central and South America. Their scientific name, Boa constrictor, is derived from the Greek words meaning type of snake (boa) and to grasp (constrictor). They are known for their gigantic size and for killing their prey by squeezing them to death with their muscular bodies. Fast Facts: Boa Constrictor Scientific Name: Boa constrictorCommon Names: Red tailed boa, boasOrder: SquamataBasic Animal Group: ReptilesDistinguishing Characteristics: Large, heavy-bodied, beige blotches on brown bodySize: 8-13 feet in lengthWeight: 20-100 poundsLife Span: 20-40 yearsDiet: CarnivoreHabitat: Tropical forests, grasslandsConservation Status: Least concernFun Fact: Boas are excellent swimmers, but they avoid water as much as possible Description Boa constrictors are non-venomous snakes best known for their large size and for squeezing their prey to death. They can climb surfaces well, swim, and travel up to speeds of one mile per hour. These reptiles have a life span of roughly 30 years, but the oldest ones have lived to 40 years. They can grow up to 13 feet in length and weigh from 20 to 100 pounds. The colors of their skin, such as pinkish-tan with patterns of brown and red, help to camouflage them well in their environment. Habitat and Distribution Boa constrictors live in Central and South America in habitats such as tropical forests, savannas, and semi-deserts.  Boas hide in the burrows of rodents at ground level during the day to rest. They are also semi-arboreal and spend time in the trees to bask in the sun. Diet and Behavior The tail of a rat hangs from the mouth of a boa constrictor as it ingests the body of the rat.   Joe McDonald/Corbis Documentary / Getty Images Boas are carnivores, and their diet consists mainly of mice, small birds, lizards, and frogs when they are young. As they mature, they eat larger mammals, such as rodents, birds, marmosets, monkeys, opossums, bats, and even wild pigs.   At night, boas hunt using sensing pits on their face that allow them to detect their preys body heat. Because they move slowly, boas rely on ambushing their prey; for instance, they may attack bats as they sleep in trees or as they fly by. They kill by using their powerful muscles to squeeze their victims body. Scientists thought this squeezing suffocates their prey, but recent findings show that the powerful pressure from the snakes actually constricts blood flow in the animal. The pressure is so powerful that the prey’s heart is not able to overcome it and it dies within seconds. Once the animal is dead, these snakes swallow their prey whole. They have special tubes in the bottom of their mouth that allow them to breath as they eat their meal. Boa constrictors digest their food with their powerful stomach acids. After a large meal, they will not need to eat for several weeks. Since they are nocturnal and solitary creatures, boas hide in rodent burrows during the day to rest, but may spend several hours in trees basking in the sun. During colder weather, they can become almost completely inactive. Reproduction and Offspring Boa constrictors reach mating age at around 3-4 years. The breeding period for them is during the rainy season. Males slither across the female’s body to stimulate the cloaca with his vestigial legs. Females produce anywhere from 20 to 60 young. These reptiles are ovoviviparous, which means that they give birth to young that are fully formed. The female eats very little during the gestation period, which lasts roughly 100 days. When the eggs are ready to be born, they push out the cloaca and must break open the protective membrane they are still encapsulated in. At birth, the young are about 20 inches and can grow to 3 feet during the first several months of life. They can survive on their own and demonstrate natural instincts for hunting and hiding from predators. Conservation Status Boa constrictors are designated as least concern under CITES Appendix II, but they have not been assessed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The biggest threat to boas comes from humans who harvest them for their skin as part of the leather trade. In tropical parts of the Americas, people may bring boas into their homes to manage rodent infestations. Species There are over 40 species of boas. A few examples of species are the rubber boa (Charina bottae), the rosy boa (Charina trivirgata), and the red-tailed boa (Boa constrictor constrictor). Rubber boas live in western North America. As their name suggests, these boas have rubbery skin, and they burrow into the ground. The rosy boa’s habitat ranges from California and Arizona to Mexico. The red-tailed boa is the species of boa constrictor that is most commonly used as a pet. Boa Constrictors and Humans Workers displaying yellow boa constrictor at a festival in Bowie, Maryland.   Tom Carter/Photolibrary/Getty Images Plus In the U.S., boa constrictors are often imported as pets and sometimes bred to produce more colorful snakes. While this pet trade may not pose a threat to boas, an unfortunate risk is that some owners simply release their pets into the environment because they do not realize how quickly these animals grow. This is particularly dangerous because boas can adapt well to new environments so long as the temperatures are conducive to them thriving. As a result, they can become an invasive species and pose serious threats to the new environment, which could lead to the disappearance of other indigenous species. Sources â€Å"Boa Constrictor.† Boa Constrictor, www.woburnsafari.co.uk/discover/meet-the-animals/reptiles/boa-constrictor/.â€Å"Boa Constrictor.† Kids National Geographic, 1 Mar. 2014, kids.nationalgeographic.com/animals/boa-constrictor/.  Ã¢â‚¬Å"Boa Constrictor.† Smithsonians National Zoo, 28 Nov. 2018, nationalzoo.si.edu/animals/boa-constrictor.  Boa Constrictor Facts and Information. SeaWorld Parks, seaworld.org/animals/facts/reptiles/boa-constrictor/.  Britannica, The Editors of Encyclopaedia. â€Å"Boa.† Encyclopà ¦dia Britannica, Encyclopà ¦dia Britannica, Inc., 14 May 2019, www.britannica.com/animal/boa-snake-family.

Fibromyalgia Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 2

Fibromyalgia - Research Paper Example In the United States, more than six million people are likely to suffer from this disorder. This paper will provide details of the disorder including symptoms, diagnosis and the available treatment. Although research has been done in a bid to identify the causes of Fibromyalgia, there is still limited success; therefore, the causes of Fibromyalgia have remained unknown to many specialists. However, the findings from the recent research have associated Fibromyalgia with certain factors; for example, individuals who come from a family with an evident history of the disorder are likely to develop Fibromyalgia in their life (Elrod 76). This suggests that there is a genetic susceptibility to the disorder. Additional research has also associated the development of Fibromyalgia with the exposure to traumatic events such as involvement in car accidents, repetitive injuries, different types of illnesses or even participating in a war. Moreover, having certain diseases make an individual more prone to developing Fibromyalgia. Such diseases include, lupus diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, and other types of arthritis. Prior to the diagnosis of Fibromyalgia, an individual may be compelled to seek the help of different specialists because of the persistent pain and fatigue which are the primary symptoms of the disorder. In the past, these symptoms have been confused with the symptoms of other diseases. This served to place a difficulty in the efforts to diagnose the condition. Many doctors have remained unaware of the condition and its symptoms a factor that hindered positive diagnosis. Therefore, many patients suffered without specialized treatment for the condition. However, in the modern day there is increased understanding of the characteristics of the disorder a factor that has led to a possible diagnosis (Ostalecki 56). Many doctors usually consider the patient history

Ireland is ready to import automobiles Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Ireland is ready to import automobiles - Essay Example Conclusions can be drawn from this: Fiscal policy was tight and yet the crisis happened, and ironically, entry into the eurozone can be harmful. â€Å"Again, the debt overhang would be huge, under any plausible assumptions. Ireland is doomed to fiscal stringency for decades, given its poor growth prospects, at least in comparison with its Tiger years† (Wolf, 2011). But, despite the dire straits, Ireland is exiting the recession (Fottrell, 2010). And, since Ireland is unlikely to keep up with the need to produce automobiles, it will need to import them. Ireland is ready to import automobiles, or at least as ready as it ever will be. 2.1. Dire financial straits Ireland's crisis is of an immense magnitude. 50,000 people could leave the country in 2011, yet another wave in a series of exoduses stretching from early Irish settlers in North America to the Irish potato famine to the 1980s (McDonald, 2011). And unlike other generations of exodus, it is professionals and graduates leav ing the country. Jobs for graduates and professionals are scarce. The economy has shrunk by a tenth and unemployment is in the double digits (MacDonald, 2011). Yet the economy was host to, and still does have, Microsoft, Apple, Intel and Pfizer. The middle-class was expanded and grew upwards, almost all Irish sharing in the growth. Aside from the slowly turning upswing out of the recession, there are many other macro-economic indicators that point to the need to import cars. In 2010, the Irish auto market grew (Leggett, 2010). People who need to physically get places, industrial and service sector workers, are not the ones leaving the country. Industrial production is likely to slow, and Ireland's native car market will not be able to keep up with demand, even with the declining Irish population from the eventual exodus. It is clear, then, that Ireland is going to need to import cars. 2.2. Car finance options Despite the bad economy, British firms like Close Motor Finance are seeing a gap in the Irish market. â€Å"A UK-BASED MOTOR finance company, Close Motor Finance, is entering the Irish car finance market this week in an attempt to fill the gap it perceives to have been left after the withdrawal by some lenders and the tighter restrictions imposed by the remaining Irish finance houses† (Comyn, 2011). This is vital for the growth of the Irish car market because it allows consumers access to credit even when the native banks are facing serious risk. It also shows that external observers view the growth potential in the car market as palpable. This announcement is much-needed news for the Irish car market. â€Å"66 per cent of all sales in 2007 were financed by loans organised through the dealership with its favoured lending institution. By last year that had fallen to 44 per cent and from January to October of this year that had fallen to just 26 per cent of all its car sales† (Comyn, 2011). The vast majority of Irish consumers are being forced to seek out their own finance options. 2.3. Growing market for imports in Ireland The imported car market in Ireland is generally growing, albeit with mixed signals. Hispano Cars, â€Å"[t]he Irish firm that imported and distributed Seat vehicles†, lost the lucrative Seat contract, but this is because Volkswagen itself is deciding to push into the Irish market (Daly, 2011). Hispano Cars

Are Energy Drinks Bad for You or Good Essay Example for Free

Are Energy Drinks Bad for You or Good Essay When people ask you, â€Å"What are energy drinks?† Everybody say drinks that give you energy. They are wrong. Energy drinks are beverages that claim to give an extra boost of energy from caffeine. Energy drinks such as Red Bull or Rock star are good and bad for your bodies. Red Bull (Energy Drink) Good qualities that energy drinks have are that there non-alcoholic. This means that the more teens that buy this, the less chance of accidents and situations to do with the law the teens have to go through. Sometimes Energy Drinks keep you awake from times you can’t/don’t want to be asleep. There are many bad qualities when it comes to Energy drinks. If a person of some kind consumed to many energy drinks, it can lead to heart problems or possibly death, as the caffeine rates in these drinks are jaw-droopingly gigantic. Caffeine can also cause Tremor / shaking, chest pains, and lots of headaches. Some teenagers mix alcohol with energy drinks at parties, which is a deathly and dangerous mixture. Questions you can ask yourself is: 1. Do I want to have a body with a lot of caffeine? 2. Do I want to ruin my life? 3. Alcohol or Non-alcoholic? 4. Do I need to suffer? Overall energy drinks are bad and not good for athletes. There are times to use energy drinks and times not too. But before you make your decision, think of the questions I asked you. And see if you want a good body or bad body. Make your mind up ? Energy drinks Water.

Historical development of the atom :: essays research papers fc

The notion of the atom all stared about 450 BC when a Greek scholar starting think when can something break on more, when are the pieces at their smallest, this mans name was Leucippus. Leucippus also had pupil who also thought the same way as Leucippus, his name was Democritus. They developed there ideas and when Democritus died his theory summed up briefly was that everything in the world was made of tiny pieced that could not be broken up any more. That how the word atom was derived from the Greek work â€Å"atomos† meaning â€Å"unbreakable†. This was the start of the theory of atoms. The first time this theory was taught at a school was by Epicurus 306 BC which he established himself.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The theory laid dormant for about 2 millenniums this was basically because it was all but forgotten, this was because it had no evidence, and it was only logic. One of the first people to show some evidence was Robert Boyle, an English chemist. In 1662 he conducted ‘Boyle’s experiment and compressed air in a ‘J’ tube with mercury, this opened up a whole new window.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  This lead to new and old thought about different types of atoms, elements. The Greeks thought simular to this but only divided it up into four groups. Their theory was close to Boyle’s but Boyle had a more concise idea of these elements and by the end of the 1700’s they had discovered about 30 elements.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In 1972 Frenchman Antoine Laurent Lavoisier discover the no mater what happens a substance always has the same weight. In the late 1700’s another Frenchman, Proust, discovert that elements can be combined to make different compounds, and that certain proportions had to be used. This became know as â€Å"law of definite proportions†.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  A few years later an English chemist, John Dalton, a fan of Boyle worked on Proust’s theory and came up with â€Å"the law of multiple proportions†. Dalton soon came up with ‘weight’ theories of the atom a discovered that hydrogen was the lightest.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In 1813 Jons Jakob Berzelius created a system using the Latin words for the element to represent that element.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In 1860 the chemist of Europe had their first international Chemical Congress to discuss the matter. They theory that prevailed was Cannizzaro theory. John Thomson was born in 1856, and is recognised as the British scientist who discovered and identified the electron.

‘Educating Rita’ by Willy Russell Essay

Rita, Frank and their relationship change throughout the play. Rita’s education and confidence both grow as the story progresses. Frank’s attitude towards life declines dramatically en route for the middle of the play but there is hint of improvement at the end. Their relationship undergoes many changes during the play. They grow apart, slowly and eventually reach a point where their separation is much needed and inevitable, although their feelings towards each other are of affection once again. At the beginning of the play Rita is a stereotypical working class girl, with little education and a lot of determination. She uses a lot of slang and colloquial language, ‘stupid bleedin† handle’ and ‘off me cake’, which shows her lack of education and her class. Rita appears ro be a confident girl, but she uses humour to cover up her nerves, ‘that’s what I do. Y’ know when I’m nervous.’ Rita is also a lively, talkative person and very blunt and forthright. She shows this when she ‘takes the pencil from Frank and scribbles out the letter ‘S’.’ Rita has a particularly determined character. At the start of the play she knows that she wants an improved life, with choices and she knows an education will give her that. So she is making sure she is going to get it, even at the cost of her marriage. When Rita leaves Denny she still wants to learn and discuss her ‘Macbeth’ essay immediately. At the beginning of ‘Act 2 Scene 2’ Rita is seen oiling Frank’s door. This shows her determination and that she follows through her word, does what she says she will. Russell uses stage directions to show Rita’s energy, ‘the door bursts open and Rita flies in.’ The words ‘flies’ and ‘burst’ convey bubbly, lively movements and therefore her energetic character. At the start of this play Frank is a stereotypical upper-middle-class man. He is apathetic sarcastic and relatively independent. Frank uses Standard English and Received Pronunciation, showing his high class and good  education. He asks ‘pardon?’ instead of ‘what?’ and explains that the Open University is ‘supposed to embrace a more comprehensive studentship.’ Frank is not dependant on anyone, but he drinks a lot and I think that he relies on alcohol a great deal. Therefore I would not say he is totally independent. Frank is very sarcastic and quick witted. He uses his sarcasm as a defence mechanism, or to make a point. He doesn’t use it nastily or to hurt anyone. ‘I sometimes get an urge to throw something through it†¦a student usually.’ This shows him using sarcasm for humour but it also shows his disinterested, lazy attitude to life. Frank is bored of his life but, unlike Rita, he cannot be bothered to change it. He finds himself dull and tells Rita that she is ‘the first breath of air that’s been in this room for years.’ He does not want Rita as a student as he sees her as a lot of work, this shows his lazy attitude. However, the audience could also see this as a selfless and considerate moment. He does not want to take Rita on as a student as he does not think he is capable of teaching her. Frank is extremely clever and refers to high culture, such as ‘T.S Elliot’ and ‘Yeats’, showing his high education and understanding. At the start of the play Frank is bored, funny, sarcastic, clever and shrewd. Frank and Rita get to know each other well and are very close, at the beginning of the play. They flirt and compliment each other, ‘he doesn’t half get on my tits/Frank: Good. You’ll have to show me some evidence/Rita: Y’ dirty sod.’ And ‘Right now there’s a thousand things I’d rather do than teach, most of them with you my dear.’ They trust one another and show this through discussion of their personal issues, ‘I live with a girl. Ex-student. She’s very caring, very tolerant, admires me tremendously and spends a great deal of time putting her head in the oven.’ They then go on to discuss Julia and Franks relationship. Their ability to talk freely to each other shows that they are at ease in each  other’s company, relaxed and confident around one another. Nevertheless, their relationship is not always easy. It is hampered by their different frames of reference. At one point Frank thinks Rita is joking about T.S Elliot the poet, when in fact she is referring to Elliot Ness, ‘y’ know, the famous Chicago copper who caught Al Capone.’ At another point Rita is calling Frank a ‘Flora man’ from the advert for the butter: flora. Frank assumes she means flora as in flowers. However, Frank and Rita have a mutual understanding of each other, which helps them work through and get beyond their misunderstandings. Their differences intrigue and fascinate one another. This helps keep their relationship alive and fresh. In the middle of the play we see dramatic changes in Rita. Right at the beginning of ‘Act 2’ Russell indicates a change by Rita entering wearing ‘new second hand clothes.’ Rita is at a very difficult point in her change. She has come so far and cannot go back to where she used to be, but she is finding it difficult to carry on, she is half way and stuck in between two worlds. Rita chooses to persevere. Rita has much more confidence and is using humour to hide behind less. She is more educated and has been influenced by lots of people over the summer. Her confidence shows when she tells Frank about summer school. She explains how she asked a question even though everyone was looking at her and ‘two thousand people had seen me stand up.’ She then goes on to say, ‘after that I was askin’ questions all week.’ Before summer school Rita wouldn’t have dared do something like that. As well as her confidence improving she is now using more Standard English, although still using colloquial language. Summer has had some less positive effects on Rita, too. She has been very influenced by Trish and although she has now got a better understanding of literature she still does not have her own views. She has merely swapped Frank’s opinions for Trish’s opinions. Frank comes back from holiday even more fed-up with life than before. Rita asks him what France was like, marvelling at the opportunity to go abroad. Frank gives an uninterested answer of ‘well – it was rather hot.’ He is very dismissive, taking for granted the occasion of going abroad and his answer is slightly hostile and cold. He seems to be more apathetic and very low, not recognising that he has got so much going for him. ‘it is indeed because I have got so much going for me that I do it†¦I need the drink to help me step delicately through life.’ This comment shows that he is still using sarcasm, it shows his sad view on his life and he tells us that he ‘needs’ drink. This informs us that he has become very reliant on drink. He is worse than he was before, turning up to lectures drunk and not taking anything seriously. He does not even bother to hide the drink anymore. He carries it, in his briefcase, to lectures. The briefcase symbolises work, so to carry alcohol in it shows just how little he cares. Frank now chooses to ignore his education; †Rubyfruit Jungle† is excellent.’ He is reverting to how Rita was. Whereas, Rita now has a view, shows her understanding and expresses it formally. They have echoed each other. Frank’s language has also changed. He is reiterating phrases from Rita, ‘completely off me cake,’ and he has picked up some of her slang. He is still sarcastic, but sometimes in a hostile, jeering way, like when he shouts names at Rita ‘Charlotte? Or Jane? Or Emily?’ At the mid-point in the play Frank is hopeless, he challenges Rita saying ‘and we’ll all live happily ever after?’ Saying this squashes dreams, is sarcastic and apathetic and takes a completely pessimistic outlook on life,  his decline is continuous. Their relationship dwindles when they meet again after summer. The changes in Rita have a big role to play in the downward spiral of their relationship. Rita is becoming more independent, She needs Frank less, he begrudges her this and it causes tension. ‘Don’t y’ like me now that the little girl’s grown up, now that y’ can no longer bounce me on daddy’s knee an’ watch me stare back in wide eyed wonder at everything he has to say?’ They understand each other less and know little about each other’s lives. ‘It struck me there was a time you told me everything,’ Frank is wistful and shows a sense of longing. He feels Rita slipping away, ‘I can’t bear you anymore,’ he tells her, ‘you don’t have to put in a visit out of sentimentality.’ They no longer have a close relationship and Frank misses and feels bitter about that. They become increasingly resentful towards each other. Frank start to get jealous and resentful of Trish, this feeling fuels further conflict. ‘Will you kindly tell Trish that I am not giving a tutorial to a Dalek.’ This remark shows coldness in their relationship, the warmth, flirting and friendly banter has gone. At the end of the play Rita has more choices than before, she is educated, confident and able to think for herself. Rita is undecided what the next step in her life should be, but she now has a choice and this is what she set out for: to be able to choose. ‘I might go to France. I might go to my mother’s. I might even have a baby. I dunno. I’ll make a decision, I’ll choose. I dunno.’ She is educated now and has passed her exam. Arguably more important is that she is no wise. She can think for herself, think logically and develop her own opinions. ‘You woulda loved it if I’d written Frank knows all the answers across me paper, wouldn’t y’?’ However, Rita did not and this shows  her education and thinking skills. She uses Standard English more now, such as ‘scholarly neckline.’ Again showing her education. Rita is no longer hiding behind humour, but she is genuinely confident and still funny. Probably the biggest change in Rita from beginning to end is that she now understands Frank’s views and realises he was and is on her side. ‘She places a Christmas card with the others already there.’ The card is a token of friendship and signifies her realisation that what she had was not all that valuable. Her realisation shows how she has matured, changed her way of thinking and now feels more kindly for Frank. Frank is now sober and hints that he will make a change in his life. There is now some optimism. He is trying to think well of his move to Australia, ‘things are just beginning there’ this implies he will take this as an opportunity to start fresh, ‘it’d be good for us to leave a place that’s just finishing for one that’s just beginning.’ Frank accepts the changes in Rita and shows his thoughtful side when he gives her the dress. He also has a realistic moment and says, ‘I was rather pissed when I bought it.’ He is not pretending to be a reformed character and he is reminding the audience of his drinking and old habits. Frank is now using Standard English again, ‘metaphorically. And as it was metaphorically the sentence was reduced from the sack to two years in Australia.’ He is still humorous, ‘Forsters lager they call it,’ and is sarcasm is still there, but it is no longer hostile. Although Frank is in a worse position than at the start of the play there is hint of improvement and a better life. Rita’s response to Trish’s suicide and Frank’s realisation of the need to change has resulted in a greater mutual understanding and a friendlier relationship. ‘I knew how much it had come to mean to you.’ Frank did not like Rita in the middle of the play but understands why she was like that. They both accept the changes in each other. Rita now appreciates all the help Frank gave her, ‘ I came to tell you you’re a good teacher.’ Frank realises her learnt a lot from Rita, too, ‘all I’ve ever done is taken from you. I’ve never given anything/Frank: that’s not true. You’ve†¦Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ They understand that they have got to go their separate ways now, and move their lives on, but they part on good terms. Rita begins as a stereotypical working-class girl, with a poor education, who hid behind humour. She goes through a series of changes and ends the play as a confident, wise, educated young lady, ready to make her own choices and get on with her life. Frank begin as a upper-middle-class man, he was very sarcastic, had a poor attitude towards life and relied on drink. As the book progressed he developed a serious drinking problem, became more and more apathetic and finally reached a point where he was on the verge of being sack. He eventually starts to get things into perspective and hints at a brighter future. The relationship between Rita and Frank began well, they complimented and trusted one another. They drifted apart and argued in the middle, but reconciled their relationship and parted on good terms. I think the main change in Rita was that she started with no choices, she had a hunger for more and great determination, which resulted in her gaining the ability to choose, and to choose wisely. I think this change in Rita was conveyed very well because as the story progresses we saw her make many decisions along the way. We saw how the choices she had to make got bigger  and bigger and how her ability to deal with the choices got better and better. The book finished with her thinking about the biggest choice; whether to have a baby or not. I think Frank’s character was portrayed well via his language and through his drinking habits. I really enjoyed the book and thought Russell kept me interested by adding new details along the way, we learnt more about the character’s private lives as the story continued and this was an added interest. I think that the book had a good ending, as it was realistic. It showed how what they had done throughout the book and what choices they had made affected their position at the end of the book. This emphasised the theme of choice again.

Analysis of poem: Half Caste (1996) by John Agard Essay

Question: Analyse the poem ‘Half Caste’ (1996) written by poet – John Agard, about his perspective on the addressing of biracial individuals. In your answer, you should consider: * Influence of context in which the poem was written * The ideas brought out of the poem * The structure and rhyme maintained Answer: John Agard gives painful and poetic expression to the mixed race experience. He was of Portuguese-Caribbean descent and lived in British Guyana (now Guyana), before he moved to Britain. The reference is to half-caste from the Spanish word ‘casta’ (origin, group) and being made to feel half a human being. The poem begins in an apologetic tone, and the strangeness of his situation is shown by him standing on one leg as he does not feel a complete man. The poet uses various examples from the world of art and music and the world of nature to challenge this stereotyping. The repetition of the words ‘explain yurself’ shows the poet’s frustration. He wonders if inanimate objects can become half-caste – Picasso’s painting in which colours are mixed to create a half-caste canvas, Tchaikovsky’s music on a piano with black and white key create a half caste symphony. The world of nature provides striking examples. Light and shadow mix in the sky to create half-caste weather. England always has ‘half caste weather’. Even the clouds are half-caste – so thick and dark and mean that they block the rays of the sun. The clouds are personified to show the negative impact they have on the earth, preventing the sun rays from reaching. The mixing of contradictory features contributes to their beauty, and this implicitly implies that only in human beings, the mixing is negative. The second part of the poem is increasingly sarcastic. Even looks and actions, dreams and shadows can be half caste. The poet listens with half an ear, looks with half an eye, and offers half a hand. This means that his reaction to life and other people is half hearted. This half-life, half identity has even affected his dreams. This could symbolise goals, ambitions that are limited or restricted. He does not have any impact on the world or other lives because he is only a half-caste human being (as per his perspective). The final suggestion is for society is to look and hear deeply and sensitively, to look at a half-caste human being’s sorrow with critical, evaluative judgement. The result of such an approach will increase understanding because the poet will tell him the other half of his story that is now hidden. The poem is built of short lines of uneven length. The first three lines introduces the subject in an apologetic tone – â€Å"Excuse me† and concludes with a small stanza of three lines promising to communicate. The middle of the poem is dominated by enjambment because the poet’s pain overflows in one unbroken recital. The word ‘half-caste’ is repeated 10 times. The title is used as an adjective, a certain condition in which a person is made to feel inferior. The absence of an article in the title shows this. The music of the poem depends on the repetition of words. Towards the end, the word ‘half-caste’ is juxtaposed with the whole. The poet moves from physical sensation – eye, ear to the idea of deep thought and feeling. There is a greater assertion in the last stanza, suggested by the words ‘I will’. The poet speaks English with overtones of a Caribbean dialect called Patois (mainly spoken in Jamaica and Barbados) – â€Å"wha ya mean† repeated 4 times, de (the), dat (that), dem (them) etc. to show that he has half a language and is incomplete even in that area. The half caste has a vivid imagination and uses a variety of examples to prove Agard’s point. The style of the poem is a question – wha yu mean and this is followed by the explanation – you mean. Various symbols are used in the poem – keen half of mih ear, keen half of mih eye implies a desire to ignore the stereotyping and yet keenly be conscious of it. The ‘half-caste’ offers only half a hand to show how deep the resentment is. Turning people into half-caste is one of the greatest of social predicaments the world faces. The need is for equality, dignity and respect to be given to each human being, bringing the marginalised to the centre. The poem ‘Half-Caste’ depicts the anger, pain and fluctuation of emotion felt by Agard, when (rude) comments were addressed to him, directed at his mix of nationality. It also validates that addressing a person as ‘half-caste’ is cretinous and in the conclusion, the lines ‘But yu must come back tomorrow, wid de whole of yu eye, wid de whole of yu ear, wid de whole of yu mind, and I will tell yu de other half of my story’ shows he is willing to make amends with the commentators, if they only cease to treat him as half a human being.

A Complete Fall Color and Autumn Leaf Viewing Guide

A Complete Fall Color and Autumn Leaf Viewing Guide One of natures grandest color displays - the autumn tree leaf color change - will develop as early as mid-September in the northern latitudes of North America. This annual autumn tree leaf change will manifest itself in living fall color through most of October, then wane toward the end of November in the southern part of the United States. You will have at least two months of quality autumn leaf viewing somewhere in North America. The best part about viewing the fall color is, it wont cost one red cent to enjoy - that is if you are lucky enough to live in or near a deciduous forest or have trees in your yard that express fall color. All others better get ready to pay for the experience. City escapees spend over one billion dollars each season taking in what many consider the splashiest show in nature. Autumn leaf viewing is a major vacation attraction - especially throughout New England, the central Northwoods and the Appalachian Mountains of the Eastern United States.  No forestry site would be complete without some mention of the October tree viewing pilgrimage - and how people can better enjoy viewing the autumn foliage. This quick leaf-viewing reference includes some basic tree leaf science and leaf viewing tips, along with enough information to enhance your next autumn leaf viewing trip. Use this guide as a starting point for your next leaf-viewing vacation. Starting Tips for Viewing Leaves Review the most beautiful trees naturally on display during fall leaf viewing season.Review these leaf silhouettes of common tree species.Get a recommended field guide to enhance the trip.Learn how to organize, build and display an autumn leaf collection.Use this field guide and key  to identify an autumn leaf by tree species. The Science of Leaf Change Fall leaf color change starts very subtly late in September and early October in temperate North America. Trees respond to such factors as autumn drying conditions, temperature change, altered sun position, and light. It takes approximately two weeks to begin and complete the fall color change so timing and a little luck are essential for the perfect view. Fall color change and flow take place as three primary waves in mixed hardwood forests. A simple flow and wave model was designed at the University of Georgia to illustrate what leaf experts call the fall color wave.   Autumn Leaf Color Change, The Anatomy of a Fall Leaf The major factor influencing autumn leaf color change is the lack of water. Not a lack of water to the entire tree, but a purposeful weaning of water from each leaf. Every leaf is affected by colder, drier, and breezy conditions and begins a process which results in its own demise and removal from the tree. The ultimate sacrifice of a leaf-bearing tree is the ultimate in visual pleasure for us. The broadleaf tree goes through a process of sealing off the leaves from the stem (called abscission). This halts the flow of all internal water to the leaf and causes a color change. It also seals the spot of leaf attachment and prevents precious moisture from escaping during winter dormancy. Fall Leaf Color Change Follows a Predictable Process of Chemical Leaf Change This lack of water to each leaf causes a very important chemical reaction to stop.  Photosynthesis, or the food-producing combination of sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide, is eliminated. Chlorophyll must be renewed (by photosynthesis) or be taken in by the tree along with photosynthetic sugar. Thus chlorophyll disappears from the leaves. Chlorophyll is the green you see in the leaf. Once the overwhelming chlorophyll color is removed, true leaf colors will dominate over the receding green pigment. True leaf pigments vary with the species of tree and thus the different characteristic leaf colors. And because true leaf colors are water-soluble, that makes the color disappear very quickly after drying out. Carotene (the pigment found in carrots and corn) causes maples, birches, and poplars to turn yellow. The brilliant reds and oranges in this fall landscape are due to  anthocyanins. Tannins give the oak a distinctively brown color and are the final persistent color most leaves turn before becoming part of the forest floor.   The  Virginia Tech Dendrology  department has two fascinating time-lapse films, one on a leaf turning color and one on a forest turning into autumn gold.   Viewing the Autumn Leaves University of Georgia silvics professor, Dr. Kim Coder, suggests there are ways you can predict how  beautiful a fall leaf color display will be. These simple predictors use known information and apply some common sense to forecast a season with surprising accuracy. By reviewing Dr. Coders key predictors, you will increase your chances of seeing the best leaves at just the right time.   TheFall Color Hotline Probably one of the best resources available online for leaf viewing information is the National Forest Fall Foliage Hotline, though you shouldnt expect to find up to date information until late September of the current leaf season. This federal phone hotline offers you information on viewing leaves in and around the U.S. National Forests and Parks. It is brought to you by the USDA Forest Service and is updated every year to reflect changing conditions and new sites.

Understanding Vocabulary Words in Context

Understanding Vocabulary Words in Context Reading comprehension is one of the most difficult things to master on a standardized test. The test-makers evaluate skills like finding the main idea, making  inferences, determining  the authors purpose, and understanding vocabulary words, some of which you may have never been introduced to you before. The good news? You can understand vocabulary words based on the context of the passage - the words, clauses, and phrases around the unknown vocabulary word. You don’t have to memorize all the vocabulary words in the dictionary! Vocabulary Words in Context Example You might not understand the word, acerbity, by itself, but this sentence, â€Å"The acerbity of the lemon caused the little girl to spit out the bite she had just taken† helps you understand that the general meaning of acerbity must be â€Å"bitter or sour†. The context clues lemon and spitting out the bite, which provide more information in the sentence, help you understand what the vocabulary word means. Vocabulary Words In Context on a Test A question on a standardized test may look something like this: After the first day on the job, the bank’s new manager realized he would be busier than he had been led to believe. Not only was he assisting the bank tellers with their work, but his new boss had decided to inundate him with other tasks like creating security systems, managing the bank’s deposits and refunds, securing loans, and maintaining the daily operations. The new manager was exhausted as he locked the bank up for the night. The word â€Å"inundate† from the passage is closest in meaning to: overloadprovideassaultunderwhelm Hint: A way to figure out if your choice is correct is by putting the answer choice in the sentence in place of the vocabulary word. Which one fits the intended meaning the best? Youre right. Its overload. The first choice is the best pick, although assault is a close second. The only way that one would work is if the tone of the passage had been more negative. Understanding Vocabulary Words in Context Exercise Try to determine the meanings of the following italicized vocabulary words, based on the context clues in the sentences.Skill level: Easy Pablo always showed animosity toward his teachers by throwing spitballs and mouthing off, but his sister Mary was kind and sweet.The little girl was showing signs of ocular problems - she squinted to read the blackboard and complained of headaches after working on the computer for too long.The crowd rewarded the singer with plaudits, or extreme praise, by clapping and cheering during a standing ovation.Elena’s repudiation of Jerry’s bad table manners was obvious to everyone at dinner as she dropped her napkin and left the table.From the far past to the present day, the moon has been thought to cause lunacy. Some studies have shown that this momentary insanity does have some association to the moons phases.The old man’s hair was sparse rather than thick and full like it was when he was young.Janie was as devout as the Pope himself.My sister Kimmy shows a great abhorrence for crowds, whereas my little brother Michael loves to be the center of attention.When you adm onish someone, you point out his or her errors; an example would be scolding a child for misbehaving. The sorcerer’s minions, or devoted followers, were willing to perform any sorcery he could conjure.Ninety-seven pairs is a superfluous number of shoes.The spy was hung at the gallows of his homeland for his perfidious deeds.â€Å"Busy as a bee† and â€Å"quiet as a mouse† are hackneyed phrases – they’re used all the time.Amelia was as pretentious as a princess when she arrived at the party. She tossed her coat to the hostess and grabbed a drink out of a nearby guest’s hand.We always listen to my great-aunt because she is venerable, but we ignore my niece’s advice because she’s only six. Understanding Vocabulary Words in Context Answers hatred; extreme dislikerelated to the eyeextreme praise (the definition was right in the sentence)denial; refutation; negationinsanity; madness; psychosisthin; spare; light; meagerpious; religious; sincerehatred; loathing; disgustreprove; caution; reprimandcrony; underling; followerextra; surplus; redundantdisloyal; treacherous; deceitfultrite; clichà ©d; worn outshowy; pompous; exaggeratedrespected; esteemed; revered

Seismic Base Isolation Technology From Okumura Corporation Research Proposal

Seismic Base Isolation Technology From Okumura Corporation - Research Proposal Example Construction companies are required to meet building specifications by authorities to ensure safety in times of seismic activity. This threat to business may be transformed into an opportunity to achieve and maintain market leadership by Platinum Builders Inc.  through importation of the best technology against seismic activity; base isolation devices, from Okumura Corporation in Japan. The challenges that exist in international trade especially in terms of communication and legal considerations are all surmountable. Base isolation devices from Okumura Corporation are of high quality and meet the accreditation standards in Japan hence they are safe for import. They assure safety, low insurance charges and continuity in businesses and livelihoods; qualities that a construction company should aim to be associated with. It is recommended therefore that Platinum Builders Inc. seizes this opportunity to develop into an industry leader in construction. Introduction Leading companies strategically position themselves to achieve and maintain market leadership through SWOT analyses. Spotting opportunities for growth in the environment is an important aspect of business strategy especially in the construction industry where differentiation and overall cost leadership may be difficult to achieve in the bid to generate and maintain the competitive advantage. Platinum Builders Inc. may, however, find that an analysis of its threats presents an opportunity for growth when an international perspective is drawn into consideration. Background: Platinum Builders Inc. and the California Constructions Industry Outlook The outlook of the building  construction industry in California tends to incline towards considerations of seismic activity in the construction of structures. This is understandable considering the fact that the State of California lies in a region that is earthquake prone.

HOW CAN PAIN BE ASSESSED EFFECTIVELY IN SEVERE DEMENTIA PATIENTS IN Literature review - 1

HOW CAN PAIN BE ASSESSED EFFECTIVELY IN SEVERE DEMENTIA PATIENTS IN HOSPITALS - Literature review Example Dementia is associated with significant cognitive impairment. Most of the patients with dementia have a longer stay at hospitals which is associated with the development of complications. Pain is commonly under diagnosed and undertreated in patients with dementia (Buffum and Haberfelde 2007), as the dementia patients cannot communicate properly. A pilot study was conducted by Buffum and Haberfelde 2007 to assess families and care givers perception on pain management in patients with dementia. The study was conducted among 34 family caregivers and the study concluded various strategies for assessment of pain that include regular observation and assessment. Even though there are several methods in the management and assessment of pain, still the identification of appropriate tool remains a concern in all care settings. Most of the studies report self report as the most effective tool for pain assessment. In a study conducted by Shega et al (2005) among 115 dyads, 37 patients with demen tia and 57 caregivers reported that direct self report of pain is the most appropriate tool for assessment of pain and the treatment should be done accordingly. The study suggested that the clinicians should routinely assess the pain, caregiver depression and patient agitation, as the study has reported caregiver reported pain during caregiver depression. A study by Pautex et al 2005, also supports the use of self assessment report for pain management. The prospective clinical study was conducted among 160 patients, where 97%, 90% and 40% of patients with mild, moderate and severe dementia understood the use of the self assessment scale. The study concluded that self assessment works well among patients with mild and moderate dementia. The study also suggests the use of observational pain rating scales, along with the use of self assessment reports in pains with advanced dementia. Observational scale along with self-assessment correlates

Product Report Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Product Report - Essay Example Apple has designed the latest model of an iPod with video capability. This makes it stand out for it does not only serve the purpose of listening to music but also watch videos. However, it would be better if this gadget contains a digital camera incorporated into it. This will make life even better, and people will not have to carry a digital camera. (Ireland et al, 2008) For this reason, am marketing a new design of an iPod by the name iPod Camera/ Video. This iPod has an added advantage for it contains a three in one service. Despite its nature, the price is very considerate which makes the gadget affordable. This is because from a range of $ 165 dollars a customer can obtain one depending on its disk space. Additionally, this product is very competitive in the market for it offers a twenty-four hour of music play back. Moreover, it has a huge storage capacity enabling individuals to store more than two thousand song, eight thousand images, and nine hours of video recording. (Irel and et al, 2008) To be able to buy iPod Camera/ Video a person has to visit the Apples customer care shops around the country. In these shops, the marketers will be able to sell the product and explain all the necessary information to customers. Such information will include how to use and maintain the iPod. Moreover, the sales and marketing agents in the Apple Company will be holding an outside market every weekend in the town center. The iPod Camera/ Video will be beneficial to all people irrespective of age and classes. However, it will be even more advantageous to the young people thus the sales and marketing agents will be going round in the institutions of learning to market the product. The iPod has three months guarantee, clear product description and a unique logo to help the customers distinguish the real iPod Camera/ Video from the counterfeits. This will enable the iPod to reach a hundred million marks in sales. This stems from referring back to other market analysis con ducted by the Apple Company that clearly manifests high rate of sales in other brands of iPod. Therefore, iPod Camera/ Video by being a new and modified product in the market will record even more market sales within a very short duration of time. However, this does not mean it will be the last brand of the iPod since the iPod family has been evolving since the first original launch in the year 2001. (Ireland et al, 2008) Lastly, the SWOT analysis of iPod Camera/ Video comprises of its brand perception, price, better quality control implementation, strong competition and major competitors among others. Brand perception clearly manifests the Apple Company as being very innovative when it comes to selling and manufacturing of their products. This makes it give a wider access to a series of brands that they continue to invent occasionally. Their brand stands out against all the other companies hence, it has registered in peoples mind that all their iPod brands are the best quality prod uct. (Ireland et al, 2008) Secondly, better quality control implementation reveals that Apple Inc. device quality control procedures to enable them to provide magical and revolutionary quality products to its consumers. However, the Apple Company that produces the iPod faces a huge competition in the current globe oligopoly from other companies such as Samsung, Nokia and dell among others. In addition, the political and financial crisis also adds to the apples challenges. This

Driving Forces Of The Jamaican Economy

Driving Forces Of The Jamaican Economy The purpose of this research is to do an analysis of the investment setting of the local economy . This will be done through an analysis of the macro economy, industry analysis and company analysis. This research seeks to identify the three industries which have the greatest potential for growth for the period 2013- 2016. From the three industries identified, the industry with the greatest growth potential will be analysed further and a company chosen from this industry for fundamental analysis. The results presented from the research should be treated as conclusive but rather as an hypothesis or best guess for the direction of the economy during the period 2013- 2016. Economic Analysis is the study of general economic conditions that is used in the valuation of common stock. The macro economy is the environment in which all firms operate and it has a great influence on profits and the firms relative performance within the industry. Driving Forces of the Jamaican Economy Jamaica is a small developing economy with a lot of potential for growth if resources are used more effectively. Over the years it is evident that the economy has been growing, however, there are areas that seem to be crippling. The major drivers of growth in the economy are agriculture, forestry and fishing. On the other hand it is expected that mining, quarrying, hotels, restaurants and electricity will expand. Over the past years the contribution of agriculture to GDP ranges from 6.5% 8.5%. If this number is to grow the economy would have to get in the frame of mind of eating what we grow which will help to decrease imports, however exports would have to increase since it would not be beneficial to stop importing but do nothing about exporting. Industries make up 29.5 % and services makes up 64.7% of GDP. The economy depends mostly on services which include restaurants and hotels which make up the greater portion of GDP. However the country generates most of its foreign exchange from tourism and bauxite. Although the economy is growing it would be better if there were not so many hindering factors. These factors include crime and corruption, large-scale unemployment and underemployment. Instead of seeing a decline, the economy is experiencing growth in those factors, and these affect the economy negatively. According to a paper on national security it stated Jamaica has a culture of crime, this high crime rate in the economy causes there to be fewer investments which results in a slow growth of the economy. As a small economy with so much potential to grow but little resources and few modern technology there are some corrective measures that should be in place if the economy should grow. According to Paul Allen a business reporter these measures include: embracing competitiveness and taking the necessary measures to achieve and maintain it, companies need to move away from targeting the local market and focus more internationally, make better uses of resources invested in economic activities and adopting policies that encourage innovation and cohesion. In implementing these measures the economy will be sure to see growth. It may not show currently but it will show over a period of time if implemented at the right time and with the right precautions. Unemployment Unemployment rate is the percentage of the total labour force that is unemployed but actively seeking employment and willing to work. Decreasing unemployment in Jamaica has always been one of the major economic factors that the Jamaican government have always tried to solve. The graph  [1]  shows the movement of unemployment rates between the years 2009-2013. The figures show a gradual increase in unemployment over a three year period and also a forecasted increase over a two year period. According to the PIOJ in an article in the Jamaican Observer dated August 22, 2012 the economy is going through a transformation in which sectors growing the fastest are the ones shedding jobs due to modernisation taking place. Compared to other Caribbean countries Jamaica has been experiencing the slowest economic growth and the country will continue to face challenges for years to come. To combat this problem the current government will be maintaining a broadly market friendly policy stance and reducing Jamaicas high unemployment rate a priority. They have found $4 billion funding for the Jamaican Emergency Employment Programme (JEEP) in the efforts to solve this problem and as such the projections for unemployment for 2012 and 2013 are 13% and 14% respectively. Interest Rates Interest rate is a rate which is charged or paid for the use of money and is often expressed as an annual percentage of the principal. The lending interest rates for Jamaica over three years are graphically represented  [2]  . These figures show a gradual decrease in interest rates which can have both negative and positive effects. Low interest rates increases borrowing by consumers and thus increase consumer spending, it will prompt investors to invest more in equities and businesses will be able to finance expansions and so on at cheaper rates all of which will help to expand the economy and increase GDP as they can borrow for less money to finance these activities. On the other hand lower interest rates also indicates that persons will begin to save less as they will not be receiving much return and it can also weaken the dollar. According to Bryan Wynter the Governor of The Bank of Jamaica, He stated in an article dated June 14, 2012 Jamaica will sustain low levels of interest rates. Jamaica is expected to continue stable/decreasing levels of interest rates. Interest rate for Jamaica is currently 17.55% as of August 2012. GDP Gross Domestic Product is the measure of the economys total production of goods and services. Rapidly growing GDP indicates an expanding economy with ample opportunity for a firm to increase sales. The Jamaican economy is heavily dependent on services which accounts for about 60% of GDP. GDP in Jamaica 2009 was reported at -2.6 % this shows that the level of production in the economy was declining compared to -1.7 % in 2008. In 2010 GDP was -0.6% this contraction was reflected in low economic demand, job losses and reduced disposable income. In 2011 however GDP increased to 1.3 % this was due to improved international economic conditions, particularly in the first half of the year. Domestic demand for goods and services, although weak, continued to improve throughout the year, it was also influenced by sustained growth in remittance inflows to Jamaica. According to the Bank of Jamaica, GDP is projected to be within the range of -0.5% to 0.5%. Inflation According to Mankiw inflation is the overall increase in price levels. Inflation may cause the value of investments to fall. Government deficit and rising cost of productive inputs are causes of inflation in Jamaica. When the governments expenditure exceeds its revenue, the government is said to be running a fiscal deficit. In order to finance this deficit, the government has the option of either borrowing from the Bank of Jamaica or borrowing from local or international financial institutions or from the general public. If the government borrows heavily from the local sources outside the Bank of Jamaica, it may lead to an increase in domestic interest rates. If the government decides to borrow funds from the Bank of Jamaica to finance its deficit, the process of printing money may have to be done. This is not a preferred option as the process usually leads to inflation because it represents an increase in money balances without a corresponding increase in the quantity of goods in th e economy, that is, more money chasing too few goods. Inflation also arises out of increases in the cost of production inputs. The price of any final good or service will depend upon the cost of the inputs used to produce that good. The more expensive the inputs are to the producer, the higher the cost of the product to the consumer. This therefore means that continued increases in the cost of productive inputs would result in continued increases in the price of the good and hence causes inflation.  [3]   According to the Bank of Jamaica the inflation rate in 2009 was 10.2 % which decreased from 16.8% in 2008. This decline was a result of the declining in prices of import commodities and an increase in productivity and output in the agricultural sector. In 2010 however inflation increased to 11.7%, this was a result of domestic weather shocks this included drought conditions and a tropical storm which affected food supplies. In 2011 inflation decreased to 6.0% this was influenced by the impact of excess supply on agricultural prices which means there was a high supply of agricultural produce. Domestic demand also was remained low during this period. Projected inflation for year the years 2012 to 2013 is estimated to range from 10% to 12 %. National Debt Debt to GDP According to Ken Chaplin in an article dated Tuesday November 15, 2011, the country is not doing well when a lot of its economic and financial activities are measured against the GDP for instance the debt. In 2008 Jamaica had a debt to GDP ratio of 128 percent. Total debt for 2010 was 128.3% of GDP compared with 129.3% of GDP in 2009. The projection for 2011/12 is 122.8% of debt to GDP and the projection for 2015/16 is 95.1 percent of debt to GDP.  [4]   Total debt stock for 2009 was $1,434,755.8 million compared with $1,570,368.30 in 2010 and a projected $1,639,502.5 in 2011. All of these figures broke the debt ceiling of l00 percent. In 2009 the domestic debt ratio to GDP was 68.4%, in 2010 66.1%, and for 2011the projection is 65%. As far as external debt is concerned, the debt to GDP ratio was 60.9% in 2009, 62.2% in 2010 and the projection for 2011is 57.7%. The government projects that by the year 2015/16 the debt to GDP ratio will be 95.1%, but this is not sufficient. In every respect the extent of the debt is a heavy burden with which the country is struggling to maintain. Industry Analysis An industry analysis is an analytical tool used to identify various attributes within an industry. In Jamaica we have many industries, and there success and growth are often dependent on a number of factors. The more common factors considered for an industry include the level and type of technology employed, type of labour force employed, government regulations and the like. The three industries identified in this research paper, are the three industries that the authors of this paper felt had a better chance to do better than all other industries during the period 2013- 2016. These industries are the financial industry, manufacturing industry and the telecommunications industry. These three industries have shown the greatest potential for sustained growth over the projected horizon. Financial Industry The finance sector is regulated by the Financial Regulations Division (FRD) this division deals with the development of the regulatory framework, which influences the operations of the countrys financial sector. Jamaicas financial sector is made up of merchant banks, commercial banks, credit unions, building societies that are license under the financial institution act. The sector also includes non-deposit taking institutions including insurance companies, development bank and securities dealers. The Bank of Jamaica Financial Stability Report for 2011, states that the general financial stability environment in 2011, although remaining stable, was dominated by higher credit risks. The credit risk conditions permeating the financial markets in 2011 were affected by domestic economic conditions pertaining to uncertainty surrounding the status of the Stand By Arrangement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), deteriorating debt indicators, the delay of other key economic reforms and the less than favourable strength of economic recovery. It further stated that the annual change in Jamaicas gross domestic product (GDP) returned to positive growth rates at end 2011. In addition, economic activity appeared to be trending to levels recorded prior to the international financial crisis that started in 2007. Improved performance was reflected within the financial sector for 2011. Compared to 2010, profitability rose for financial institutions. Increased profits were mainly due to: activities in the banking sector which realized accelerated growth in the asset base; continued reduction in risks related to the cost of financing in 2011, despite low aggregate demand and unfavorable performance on interest bearing assets; and lower market interest rates during 2011, thus generating lower interest expense relative to 2010. Despite several risks identified for the period under review, the financial sector was adequately capitalized. Two of the major risks were the protracted uncertainty due to the status of reviews of the countrys medium term programme by the International Monetary Fund; and the evident increase in Non-Performing Loans, specifically to corporations. This industry is driven by technology, as is evident from the various machines utilized by the various financial institutions to ensure the continued operations of its business. This technology includes internet banking and telebanking facilities which allow customers to shop and pay bills from the comfort of their own home. Manufacturing Industry The manufacturing industry is comprised of any and all organizations that engage in production activities. In view of this definition, this industry would include organizations involved in food processing such as Grace Foods and Lasco Manufacturing, outdoor signage companies such as National Outdoor, furniture making companies and the like. The manufacturing industry, also known as the secondary industry, employs a lot of labour especially unskilled labour which is used to produce the wide variety of manufactured goods found within our local economy. Technology is also employed to this sector to aid in production but, the industry remains very labour intensive and is the main source of income for many within the local economy. The contributions made by the manufacturing industry as showed steady declines since 1990 at 21.3% to 8% in 2011. The importance of this industry is however underscored by the president of the Jamaica Manufacturing Association as the largest contributor to GDP of all the goods producing sector. This industry is regulated by the Jamaica Manufacturers Association, which is responsible for ensuring that companies within this industry are properly licensed to do business and also acting as an agent of the government on behalf of the stakeholders of this industry. Since the Jamaica debt exchange in 2009, businesses and individuals who formerly depended on earnings from government debentures have had to shift their focus as they desire to gain greater returns on capital. The industry has benefitted from this has some manufacturing businesses have sought to increase their capacity, and in so doing generate more income. (Edwards, 2010) The major players in this industry enjoy greater market share and economies of scale. Nevertheless the industry is not yet saturated and more and more players are entering the market with a view to earning income and gaining greater market share. There are little barriers to entry within this industry and it has become a worthwhile alternative employment for those who did not benefit from an acceptable level of secular education. In recent times the financial stability of Jamaica seems to be hinging on an IMF deal. As a result vision 2030 which is a mandate of sorts for growth in the manufacturing industry has taken on greater meaning. It is the desire of the government to see this industry expand it capacity and export more and import less. (Edwards, 2010) Telecommunications Industry In 1986 LIME then known had Cable and Wireless Jamaica enjoyed a monopoly position within the industry. This was however sanctioned by an act of parliament, and in 1999, CWJ was asked to give up their monopoly status and liberalize the market. (Country Profile Jamaica, 2007) By the end of 2005 Jamaica was described by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) as having the highest usage of cell phones than any other country within the American region. The Jamaican mobile sector which includes companies such LIME and Digicel are credited with the extensive growth in the telecommunications industry, despite the global recession during the periods 2007-2011. According to (Business Wire, 2011) the mobile sector is poised for strong growth during the periods 2011- 2016. Factors contributing to this projected sustained growth are the 3G and 4G deployments by the mobile sector. As noted by (Country Profile. Jamaica, 2007), in 2007, Digicel was market leader with a customer base of 1.7 million Jamaicans and LIME followed with a customer base of 700,000. In the ensuing years there have been slight fluctuations, but Digicel remains as market leader. The telecoms industry in Jamaica is regulated by the Fair Trading Commission (FTC) and the Office of Utilities Regulation (OUR). The fair trading commission asses the market and ensures that as companies within this industry interacts fairness exists and that no entity is able to cause negative impacts to other players in the market. The Office of Utilities Regulation focuses on the interaction between industry players and the consumer society. At times they may set rates for service providers or approve rate increases. However, as a result of the competitive nature of this industry, there is not much if any interference from the regulator in this regard. As mentioned before there is a high level of competition within this industry with the major competitors being, LIME vs. Digicel, LIME vs. Flow, LIME vs. Digicel vs. Flow, and offcourse the list goes on. Success in this industry is however dependent on technology employed and the corporation with the greatest investment in technology is poised to see the greatest return on investments. In Depth Analysis of chosen Industry (Manufacturing) In the view of the members of this group, the manufacturing industry is positioned to do better than the other two industries assessed during the periods 2013- 2016. Our decision was drawn from past and present activities within the economy and we hypothesize that the manufacturing industry will be the leading industry at the end of the projected period. Manufacturing in Jamaica has grown from small beginnings to the well oiled machinery that now exists. In times past it was about trial and error. Bringing things to the market and hoping that sales would be made. This industry is however faced with the reality that it does not have unlimited resources for trial and error. As a result, corporations within this industry have diversified to gain greater economies of scale. Within this industry we have food processors. Leading in this area are companies such as Jamaica producers, Grace Foods, Lasco Manufacturing, Polyfoods and offcourse the list goes on. We have beverage companies such as Pepsi, Jamaica Beverage, Wysinco, Grace and still others. Not to be outdone is the industrial giant Tankweld Metals which produces all type of steel to be used in the construction industry. Time would not allow us to go into every sub sector within this vast and expanding industry. This industry benefits from various government concessions as an inducement to ensure sustained growth of the sector. In the vision 2030 that was drafted, the manufacturing industry was viewed as a critical area that the government would be looking to make investments in to ensure growth of the sector, through its manufacturing task force (vision 2030, 2009). As noted by (Country Profile Jamaica, 2005), the manufacturing industry is the second largest contributor to GDP growth. Despite this second place status on the issue of GDP growth, the industry is still growing and there are incentives available for growth which underlay the potential for it to become an industry leader during the projected period. A recent occurrence that has had a negative impact on the manufacturing industry includes the recent passing of hurricane Sandy. Hurricane Sandy has washed away crops, blown down structures and damaged parts of some factories. This has caused setbacks within the industry and may inevitably lead to increases in cost of products produced. However in times past, these situations have levelled off and normalcy returned. Similarly the effects of Sandy will be a thing of the past. Social Influences The manufacturing industry is impacted by the need of many to have employment in order to support their families. Many secondary school graduates first job is in the manufacturing industry as unskilled labourers. There they have an opportunity to learn industry relevant skills that will benefit them in later years. The Manufacturing industry however is not to be viewed as a day-care centre for the nations youth. It is in fact a very well paying industry for those who have qualified themselves in that area through skills training or tertiary learning. The success of this industry will inevitably depend on those individuals with new knowledge and innovative ideas to keep it moving forward. A very important part of the economy is growth in gross domestic product. The more developed this industry becomes, the greater will be GDP. Of special note also is the fact that the manufacturing is the single largest employer of human labour. Technology Employed Like other industries, the manufacturing industry is aware of the benefits derived from the use of technology in its operations. The use of technology in this area is complemented by human labour, the two works hand in hand. In times of long ago, the adage many hands make work light had real meaning. It took many hands to get things done at that time. In this modern economy, the usage of technology has increased capacity within the various companies within the manufacturing industry. As a consequence many have had to learn how to operate and maintain these machines in order to secure their employment within the industry. Others have left to find their place in other industries such has the service industry. It is with the aid of technology that firms within this industry can gain economies of scale. These include industry giants such as Grace Kennedy, Lascelles, Lasco and much more. Regulatory Environment In Jamaica, there are incentives to be gained from the government if the thing being produced is deemed to be in the national interest (Chen-Young). Government officials have on numerous occasions spoken about the need for Jamaicans to capitalize on the benefits that can be gained from producing more and importing less. Linked to its national policy, we are admonished to be self sufficient to the extent possible. On a more serious note we have the Bureau of Standards, This institutions sets the standards that must be met for goods that are to be used by the public (bsj.org.jm). In the case of building blocks built by Carib Cement, there is a certain level of pressure that each block should be able to withstand before it breaks. The standards set by the Bureau are in the best interest of the nation and they are not burdensome to implement. Forces Driving Competition Mr Porter identified five forces which drive competition within an industry, these are also known as Porters five forces. These are the; bargaining power of buyers, bargaining power of suppliers, threat from potential entrants, threat from substitutes of products or services, and intense competition among existing companies within an industry. Bargaining Power of Buyers As a result of the buyers knowledge of the market and the competitors thereof, the buyer is able to make demands on the business. Buyers are more sensitised to the various facets of the manufacturing industry and the many niche markets that have sprung. The buyer therefore has the option to shop around and get the best deals. Bargaining Power of Suppliers Suppliers are aware that they do not have a monopoly market on raw materials needed by companies within the manufacturing industry. As such suppliers seek to form partnerships with companies in order to secure further business. As such the bargaining power of suppliers is moderate. Threat from Potential Entrants Threat from potential entrant is low. This is because a sizable investment is needed to enter this market and not everyone can afford to set up shop and manufacture their own goods to be sold to consumers. Threat from Substitute Products There is a high level of threat from substitute products. As a result the consumer can go elsewhere if not satisfied with what is being offered for sale. This forces the company to be sensitive to the needs of consumers since there needs can be filled elsewhere which would result in a loss of revenue. Intense competition among existing companies within the industry There is intense competition within the industry, with the exception of those that operate as monopolies. In every subsector of this industry, there is intense rivalry and the consumer only stands to benefit. Those that have however established themselves within the industry see favourable returns despite the intense rivalry. These companies include Pepsi and Wysinco from the beverage sector. Company Analysis The company chosen from the industry that is believed to outperform the other two industries is Lasco Manufacturing. This company exists as a major player within the food manufacturing sector of the manufacturing industry despite being quite young when compared to its major competitors. It has as its vision, to become a global corporate leader through innovation and entrepreneurship. Lasco Manufacturing came into existence as a consequence of a decision that was made to reorganize the Lasco companies in the year 2010. The board of directors entered into and amalgamation agreement which in effect led to Lasco Foods being made responsible for its own activities the name was thereafter changed to Lasco Manufacturing. The chairman for the Lasco manufacturing company is Mr. Lascelles Chin; he is also the founder of the Lasco Affiliated Companies. A recipient of the Order of Jamaica for the work he did in the development of commerce in Jamaica. This man along with his qualified team of directors and committed staff are positioned to take this company to new heights during the projected period of 2013- 2016. Economic and Industry Influences Lasco Manufacturing, like all other business are affected by the economic climate. The countries inability to secure an IMF deal will result negatively on its operations as it relates to its importation of raw materials for its business. The countries net international reserves are getting low and this may lead to further downgrades in on Jamaica as a place for doing business and Lasco Manufacturing will be affected. The recent passage of hurricane Sandy left damages that the government is still paying some of which will remain unchanged. Many manufacturing companies including Lasco Manufacturing were affected by Sandy. Food prices are expected to rise and this company will not escape this reality if it comes to fuition. The economy has been in worst state before and was revived, the authors of this paper are confident that normality will return to Jamaica and this company will continue to thrive. There has been an influx of brands which are rival to our company under consideration. However the Lasco brand is an household name and as a result still enjoys a favourable position within the market. The company however has to maintain a strategic focus because not all consumers will be loyal to a brand and as the consuming public become more educated and aware they will make greater demand on the producers of goods and services. Structural Influences Firms Competitive Strategies SWOT Analysis A SWOT analysis is a tool used to make an assessment of the strategic position of an organization. This assessment is used as a guide to position or reposition the organization in a profitable direction, taking into consideration availability of resources. Strengths Dominates the powered milk market. Well recognized brand locally. Company is more distribution oriented; this is positive considering the high manufacturing cost in Jamaica Weaknesses Products have a stigma of being low ended. Concentration in one product type; milk powder. Low regional diversification, revenues are concentrated in Jamaica. Alliance between chairman and managing director. Opportunities Tax break from listing on the JSE for the next 10 years. Stronger profit growth to fund retooling and business expansion. Threats Though Lasco benefits from weak demand, continued weakness in the Jamaican economy could impact them. Favourable Attributes of the Firm Generally, the favourable attributes of a company look at its unique qualities or characteristic that makes it the preferred choice for its customers and it is this same uniqueness that lures its potential customers. The major qualities or characteristics that contribute to a companys favourable attributes are its competitive advantage, exceeding management styles and market leadership. Competitive advantage can be further subdivided into differentiation advantage and cost advantage. Differentiation advantage is when the company offers superior product and services at the same price in the market. In contrast, cost advantage is when the company offers the same goods and services like its competitors but for a lower price. Above average management speaks to the level of managerial approach which is used within the company and it also looks at the level of mentorship that the existing managers can provide to the next generation of managers. The attribute of market leadership gives an o verview of the overall marketing styles which the company uses to builds its reputation and thus making it a priceless entity. ( Annonymous, 2008) Now when we use the definition of favorable attribute to scan Lasco manufacturing limited it was observed that it portrays numerous qualities which contributed to its uniqueness. In the first place, it can be seen that Lascos attribute of competitive advantage exemplifies a cost differentiation style in which it offers a variety of low price products on the market. The majority of these products which they offer are a part of the food basket of the average Jamaican consumers and so they have created a guaranteed market in that spectrum. This attribute has branded Lasco products as cheap and therefore gives them a huge competitive advantage among some of the major manufactures in Jamaica such as Seprod Ltd, Nestle and Grace Kennedy