Christmas Myths Essays - Christmas Traditions, Christmas

Christmas Myths Essays - Christmas Traditions, Christmas Christmas Myths Romie Walker English/147 January 27, 2016 Irene Blundell Christmas the Myth versus Fact Even though millions of people believe Christmas should be celebrated on December 25th, this originated as a pagan holiday because Jesus was not born on this day. Why do People Celebrate Christmas on December 25th Why millions of people celebrate Christmas on December 25t? Most people no matter their cultural background do things based on tradition, what their parents and their parents, parents did before them. The Bible offers few clues about the celebrations of Jesus Nativity, they are not mentioned in the Gospels or Acts, the date is not given, not even the time of year. (McGowen, 2002.) However Millions of people have adopted December 25th, as Jesus birthday. Snyder (2014 p.3) "In 2014 The National Retail Federation said that 90% of Americans would be celebrating Christmas and projected some 600 Billion Dollars been spent just on Christmas.". All in the name of Jesus! John 2:15 Brings out the account of Jesus driving men out his father's temple for using his name for financial gain using a whip he made out of cords, and over turning the tables of money. We can clearly see the way views the misuse of his name for profit. The date of Jesus Birth has been a question for centuries. There are no records of Jesus birthday. However, let's take a look at the some of the clues that's given in recorded account. "And she gave birth to her first to her first born and wrapped him in a manger because there was no place for them in the inn. And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night." (Luke 2:78). In the book of Luke it states that during the time conception, herder were out on in the court yard looking over the heard. December is the month known for its freezing temperatures, which is literally the time of year that a herders would be seeking shelter to keep him and his flock warm. Would you consider December 25th to be a pagans Holiday? After further research it was noted that this day was created by the Christians to convert pagans who don't believe in Jesus to Christians. Let's see how! Originally December 25th was a holiday celebrated in many homes, a time for feasting good will, generosity to the poor, the exchange of gifts and decorating of trees. However it was not Christmas that was a festival call saturnalia, the uncaptured. A pagan Roman winter solstice festival (Salisbury, 2009). Pagan and Christianity had always had their differences in beliefs. Do the fact that Jesus is not part of a pagan's faith, and being Christian. To be a Christian you have to accept Jesus and your savior and Christ a compromise that created to convert pagans to Jesus Christ thus December a pagan holiday celebrated by pagans already also created by Christmas as the original date of Jesus birth. December 25th the comprise with Paganism". (Walsh, 1970, p.62) References Mcgowan, a. (2015). How December 25 Became Christmas. Retrieved from biblicalarchaeology.org/daily/biblical-topics/new- testament/how-december-25-became-christmas Salusbury, M. (2009). Did the Romans Invent Christmas?. Retrieved from historytoday.com/matt-salusbury/did-romans-invent-christmas Snyder, M. M. (2014). GUESS HOW MUCH AMERICANS PLAN TO SPEND ON CHRISTMAS AND HALLOWEEN THIS YEAR.... Retrieved from infowars.com/guess-how-much-americans-plan-to-spend-on- christmas-and-halloween-this-year/ Walsh, w. (190, P.62). STORY OF SANTA KLAUS. Retrieved from alephbet.com/pages/books/29175/william-walsh/story-of-santa- klaus

Best Places to Find Gifts for Geologists

Best Places to Find Gifts for Geologists Stumped on what to get the geologist in your life for the upcoming holiday, birthday, or anniversary? Heres a short list of places to shop and gifts to get for that person who loves all things geological. The gift ideas in this geologic gift guide range from serious to wacky, plus a few items to make your jaw drop! Not on the list are all of our favorite books for geologists - for those, visit our  book reviews. Geological Tool Gifts   The Brunton Co. The Brunton Company is the maker of world-standard field tools for geologists, starting with their famous compasses many of us know simply as Bruntons. Forestry Suppliers For everything from hammers to sieves, Forestry Suppliers has a great inventory of tools your geologist will enjoy. Amateur Geologist Amateur Geologist boasts all sorts of gifts for geologists from the tools they’ll need in the field to books, geological maps, and even fun, educational items for kids. One can never have too many 10X magnifiers – at least a geologist can’t! Here are our picks for the best magnifiers on the market. Magazine and Guide Gifts for Geologists Bobs Rock ShopWhile Bob doesnt sell rocks at his rock shop (Bob’s Rock Shop is actually an online publication and community for rock enthusiasts), but this great Web destination has advertisers who do- or you can get a subscription to  Rock Gem  magazine here. Earth MagazineEarth Magazine is one of the best and most popular magazines for those who take geology seriously (the publication was formerly  titled Geotimes). You can buy gift subscriptions for your geologist on their site. Mountain Press PublishingMountain Press Publishing’s online bookstore is home to the highly regarded Roadside Guide and Geology Underfoot series of books. U.S. Geological Survey Maps and MoreYes, the USGS has a store, and it’s full of great gifts for geologists! Find maps, posters, passes, products and more from the worlds coolest government agency. Desert GuidesDesert Guides host an assortment of books about getting around, and even finding wealth, in the desert. Your geologist will get lost in the fascinating information and stories! Minerals, Rocks, and Collectibles Gifts Science Stuff Science Stuff, formerly known as Earth Stuff, has gifts for any young scientist. We especially like their Earth science section with rocks, minerals, tools, fossils, and books for smart kids interested in all things geology. The Mineral GalleryThere are hundreds of mineral shops on the Web, but the Mineral Gallery probably has the best selection of minerals for sale for your geology enthusiast. FulguritesWhen lightning strikes the ground, sediments are fused together by the energy creating beautiful and unique crystal-like structures. Various mineral dealers sell the melted results as collectibles, you can find them at the link above. Top Stone Rolling FountainsThese fountains feature large stone spheres spinning miraculously suspended on water. Uniquely beautiful, these gifts are perfect for the geologist or rock enthusiast who has everything. We love this site. Spheres To YouThey call themselves the biggest seller of stone spheres in the world, and we believe them. Their selection is incredible. The Soft EarthPottery artist, Joan Lederman, uses pedigreed seafloor mud from Woods Holes oceanographers to make wonderful objects and collectibles. U.S. Geological Survey Bench Mark ReplicasFull-size reproductions in pewter of those cool brass benchmarkers from all around the world from the most famous summits to the South Pole. They even make earrings, pins, pendants, and more.

Decolonizing Pacific Studies Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Decolonizing Pacific Studies - Essay Example Imperialism vividly describes all the events that occurred during colonialism, and during the entire period that this process occurred, there are many historical accounts written to express the emotions of the local people during this critical period. The process of imperialism began with historical figures such as Christopher Columbus a long time ago, and these people were the ancestors of colonization. Indeed, colonialism and imperialism are synonymous, and they both had similar goals in the systematic areas that they were adopted.The primary aim of imperialism was to cater for the expansion of Europe, as the lands that were under these powerful countries had abundant raw materials that would help boost the industrial sector in the developed and more advanced nations (Smith, 1999).Colonization was the immediate result of imperialism, and it helped the countries that ruled over the others to attain raw materials, the best agricultural products and ready labor for the colonizer. Late r on the indigenous people of this era began to fill the pinch of colonization, they understood what was occurring and began studying various concepts concerning imperialism.The native population put up their structures and had particular systems of order in place as they started enlightening themselves on the rule of law. Imperialism had at that time destabilized the fabric of many indigenous communities, and it had disconnected them from much of their life including their home, people, culture, language and beliefs.

Case reading 'Power as Domination' Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Reading 'Power as Domination' - Case Study Example This essay aims to provide more insight on the communication practices that were employed by TWA to dominate Ozark airlines employees, during and after the acquisition of the airline back in 1986. Primarily it is imperative to acknowledge the fact that effective communication plays a significant role in ensuring that an acquisition accomplishes the expected results. Overtime, surveys have pointed towards the fact that organizations that have embraced effective communication in the course of and after acquiring other businesses have often realized their objectives and stayed in the market for a considerable duration. On the other hand, those that have failed to embrace effective communication have always ended up with failed ventures. Taking the TWA acquisition of Ozark airlines for example, there is no doubt that during the acquisition process, there was bad blood between Ozark and TWA employees, this resulted in tension and created an inefficient environment in which the employees could not bring the best out of themselves (Tamyra et.al 17-21). At the beginning of the venture, there was less employee satisfaction. Employee commitment was similarly lacking from the Ozark empl oyees and the perception of them staying with the organization for a considerable duration of time was similarly lacking. Nevertheless, the management of TWA did not despair, they came up with structures of power and embraced effective communication and these practices played a significant role in the acquisition being a success. To dominate Ozark airlines employees, the TWA management team resorted to being clear in the course of all their communications. This is to imply that they took into account the perspectives held by employees of Ozark airlines. This was achieved by reducing the technical terms in their communication, implying that they employed the use of

Deluxe Corporation Essay Example for Free

Deluxe Corporation Essay What should Singh recommend regarding: * Target bond rating * Level of flexibility * Mix of debt and equity * Other Issue As for what should Rajat Singh recommend regarding target bond rating, level of flexibility or reserves, mix of debt and equity and lastly any other issues. So, firstly look into the target bond rating, in our opinion DC needs to position itself to obtain a AAA rating. At AAA grade bond rating shows that AAA bond rating is higher in unused debt capacity so at AAA bonds rating Deluxe company has a lower unused debt capacity. So, that means if the shareholders start to sell, this company may not rebound since it is in a dying industry. The company will be an acquisition target by growing electronic payment companies because of the drops out of the premium ratings. For your information, for the level of flexibility is the amount of debt DC can take on before you lose the investment-grade bond rating. Based on the financial analysis, the B level is where the cost jumps the most. There is a 26% increase in costs from a level BBB rating to a level BB. As for mix of debt and equity, DC is targeting an aggressive share buyback plan. They are increasing their equity in the company by reducing shares. But because of the future of the company, they will also need to take on debt. Based on the financial analysis, they are better off taking on debt. Debt is cheaper for DC. Cost of debt ranges between 5. 47% to 12%, and that does not even include the 38% tax shield. Cost of equity is more expensive, it ranges from 10. 25% to 14. 25%, and there is no tax shield. Cost of debt after the tax change ranges between 3. 39% to 7. 44%. Lastly, for other issue knows today is 12 years after the case, and DC is still in business. CONCLUSION As we know, prior to the 1990s, the  Deluxe  Corporation  (DC), the world’s largest printer of checks as well as a provider of electronic products and services to financial institutions and retail companies, was characterized as a generally stable, family oriented business. This relatively calm situation was unsettled in the 1980s by deregulation of the banking industry and changes in technology. Deluxe is forced to adopt a business model and implement strategic objectives to stay alive. Therefore, based on the all the calculation and explanations, we have finally fulfilled all the statement of problems. As for the foreseen financial requirement for the coming years, which back then was the year after 2001, it shows that DC needs additional financing for working capital, capital asset purchases, possible corporate acquisitions, repayment of short-term debt, interest payments on long-term debt, dividend payments to shareholders and possible stock buybacks depending on the state of the stock they own. Moving on as for the financial flexibility of Deluxe Corporation, it can be concluded that the debt level of DC seems to be not appropriate which is only 5. 71% from the total capital. As what it stated in Ehibit 8, DC could borrow more debt since it cost of debt (Kd) is lower than its cost of equity (Ke). Besides, the minimum WACC is obtained at bond rating AAA (9. 86%) and the same goes the optimum debt level for Deluxe would borrow which is USD 807. 50M again at bond rating AAA. From there, by maintaining bond rating AAA, it can be seen that the minimum interest or total cost that DC need to bear is only USD 83. 81M. In a nutshell, again, it shows that DC can generate its fund in its lowest cost if it maintains AAA bond rating because through that type of bond rating, DC can generate funds by paying minimum cost of capital, quickly reach the breakeven point and can easily gain profit after that. However, this company has to diversify its business in order to stay around in this business world.

Gay Marriages Essay -- Same Sex Marriage Essays

In today’s society there are many factors that contribute to the ever-continuing social inequality of people through out Canada. It is no wonder as to why there are so many stereotypes of what is socially ‘acceptable’ and what isn’t when the media is forcing these ‘norms’ into our minds. What is ‘ideal’ with in today’s expectations isn’t always attainable due the fact that everyone is different. One of the most controversial topics being discussed today is view on same sex marriage. This notorious topic is nothing new, however, there is an ongoing debate as to whether or not make it legal for couples of the same sex to engage in a marital status. Although the bond between two homosexuals is ‘different’ from two heterosexuals, the idea is the same: a union between two people. This is just one of the ways in which society is continuously participating in the failure to establish equality.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Gay and lesbian activist are hoping for legalized same-sex marriages so that both of the partners can receive federal benefits as those of heterosexuals with in their marriage. As of right now, homosexual couples do no receive social security. According to Hector Vargas â€Å"Separate is not equal and same-sex couples deserve the same as heterosexual couples†. Many people fear that if same sex couples are granted the same rights to unite under the term â€Å"marriage† there will be nothing distinguishing the difference between the two marriages and for many, there is a hu... Gay Marriages Essay -- Same Sex Marriage Essays In today’s society there are many factors that contribute to the ever-continuing social inequality of people through out Canada. It is no wonder as to why there are so many stereotypes of what is socially ‘acceptable’ and what isn’t when the media is forcing these ‘norms’ into our minds. What is ‘ideal’ with in today’s expectations isn’t always attainable due the fact that everyone is different. One of the most controversial topics being discussed today is view on same sex marriage. This notorious topic is nothing new, however, there is an ongoing debate as to whether or not make it legal for couples of the same sex to engage in a marital status. Although the bond between two homosexuals is ‘different’ from two heterosexuals, the idea is the same: a union between two people. This is just one of the ways in which society is continuously participating in the failure to establish equality.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Gay and lesbian activist are hoping for legalized same-sex marriages so that both of the partners can receive federal benefits as those of heterosexuals with in their marriage. As of right now, homosexual couples do no receive social security. According to Hector Vargas â€Å"Separate is not equal and same-sex couples deserve the same as heterosexual couples†. Many people fear that if same sex couples are granted the same rights to unite under the term â€Å"marriage† there will be nothing distinguishing the difference between the two marriages and for many, there is a hu...

How Indian Cinema Evolved over the Years Essay

A hundred years ago on this date, India’s first film Raja Harishchandra was released. Over the past hundred years, our cinema and its facets have evolved and how!! The hero From mooch to macho From a bulky mustached Raj Kapoor in the 40s to a six-pack flaunting, butt-baring John Abraham now, the Bollywood hero has had quite a makeover. The 50s was the era of method-acting with the likes of Dilip Kumar, while in the 60s, Rajesh Khanna and Dev Anand epitomised romance on screen. After Khanna’s guru kurtas and fluffy hairtop, Amitabh Bachchan brought the angry young man into the picture in the 70s and 80s with Zanjeer, Deewar and Agneepath, also bringing to the fore, bell bottoms and side burns. The 90s was the time of the lover boys Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan and Salman Khan dancing in exotic foreign locales. Now, the Bollywood hero is not restricted by genre or style and fits into every mould. He is a looker, chocolatey, experimental and total paisa vasool, read Ranbir Kapoor and Imran Khan. The heroine From feeble to fabulous In the early decades, the heroine in Indian cinema had only one objective in life, that of being a sati-savitri, who never looked beyond her family and husband. The kitchen was her cocoon, and she epitomised all things good. Through the 1940s, 50s and 60s, heroines such as Mala Sinha, Meena Kumari, Madhubala, Nanda and Asha Parekh ruled these roles. It was only in the 80s and 90s that she evolved as a strong character (Rekha in Khoon Bhari Mang, 1988), (Meenakshi Sheshadri in Damini, 1993). While in the early 2000s, she was still the demure girl, she managed to live her life on her terms like Rani Mukerji in Kabhie Alvida Naa Kehna. And the heroine today is the sexy, uber cool woman who cares for little more than her own life. Way to go girl! The villain From scary to suave From the usual lot of wicked village zamindars, smugglers, murderers, rapists, dacoits and terrorists, the larger-than-life Bollywood villains have become rare in new age cinema. Thus the traditional villain, Loin, Shakal, Mogambo, Dr Dang and Badman, has died a natural death. The wigged, cigar-smoking avatars played by the likes of Pran, Prem Chopra, Amrish Puri, have made way for smart and sometimes more-adorable-than-the-hero kind of villains. Exhibit A- Saif Ali Khan (Omkara) and Shah Rukh Khan (Don). No lines are drawn now and black characters have became grey with lead actors playing antagonists in films, almost replacing the dedicated villains. This marked the end of ever reverberating iconic one liners like â€Å"Kitne aadmi the?† and â€Å"Saara sheher mujhe Loin ke naam se jaanta hain.† The maa Rona-dhona to supercool From the God fearing and homely mum to a party freak, mothers in Bollywood have come a long way since 1930s. While Nargis in Mother India (1957) played a mother who went through hardships and struggled to bring up her offsprings, Nirupa Roy in the 70s became synonymous with white saris and a melancholic look. Then came Reema Lagoo, with her bindi and sindoor, an ideal middle class Indian mother in Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak (1988) and Maine Pyar Kiya (1989), who tried to be a friend to her son. But now, mothers are the uber cool women who are ready to accept even same-sex couples, case in point, Kirron Kher in Dostana (2008). And now there are mom who drink and dance at weddings, ala Dolly Walia in Vicky Donor (2012). The item girl Taboo to must-haves The dancing girl evolved from the Cabaret seductress, the free-spirited banjaran, the sensuous courtesan to dancing temptresses in half-saris. In the 40s and 50s, Cuckoo Moray, hotted up the screen with her innocent charm. The 50s saw Vyjayanthimala woo the audience in songs such as Chad Gayo Papi Bichua in Madhumati (1958) in ghagra cholis, and junk silver jewellery. Helen ruled the 60s and 70s, emerging in a bold avatar with dramatic ensembles. The 80s saw the trend of heroines appear in item numbers with Zeenat Aman in Qurbani (1980). Madhuri Dixit’s Choli Ke Peeche Kya Hai became the ultimate tease in the 90s. The item girls of 2000s are sexy, not afraid to show skin and love to play hard to get, be it Malaika Arora Khan in a mid-riff baring choli dancing atop a train or Katrina in Sheila Ki Jawani. The comedian Funny face to frontman The comedian in the 40s, was the fat man with funny facial expressions, whose mere presence made audiences laugh. In the 1950s, the lean Johnny Walker broke that trend and managed to win hearts with his slapstick humour. Kishore Kumar, essentially a singer, redefined comedy by using his songs like Meri Pyari Bindu (Padosan 1968) as elements of fun in films. But it was Mehmood, with his fringed hair and impeccable dialogue delivery who became the king of comedy in the 1970s. The next big thing in comedy was Johnny Lever, who left audiences in splits with his body language and dialogues in films like Raja Hindustani (1996) and Dulhe Raja (1998). Now, it’s the heroes — Akshay Kumar (Hera Pheri), Ajay Devgn (Golmaal) who are doubling as comedians. The friend Sidekick to the right-hand man The side kick or hero’s best friend, every Bollywood film has had one. The role could be that of a fun buddy who provides comic relief to the film or that one jigari dost who stays with the hero through thick and thin (in other words, fights for the hero and often dies in the end). From the days of Mukri and Mehmood, who played the hero’s good friend in the 1950s and 60s to the current time where actors like Arshad Warsi and Sharman Joshi play as powerful characters as the hero himself, this portrayal has had a sea change. Mehmood in Humjoli (1970), for instance, played a sidekick who brought the house down with his antics, but Arshad Warsi in the Munnabhai series (2003/06) played the ideal Robin to Sanjay Dutt’s Batman, and got some of the best lines in the films. The romance Touch-me-not to pre-marital sex Romance in Bollywood turned from bold to coy and back to racy and bold. The silent film, ‘A Throw of Dice’ (1929) saw actor Seeta Devi kiss actor Charu Roy. Post-independence, in the 1940s, romance became conservative. The Cinematograph Act in 1952, called kissing on screen indecent and romance became associated with clasping hand and staring into each other’s eyes. Kissing was shown with two flowers coming together or honey bees sucking nectar from flowers. 1970s was Raj Kapoor’s era that brought a passion back to romance with movies such as Bobby (1973), Satyam Shivam Sundaram (1978). It was the 90s that romance took a pure and sweet form the two blockbuster hits Hum Aapke Hain Kaun (1994) Dilwale Duhaniya Le Jayenge (1995). Now, in the 2000s, pre-marital sex shown in films like Salaam Namaste (2005) and Rockstar (2011), is considered cool. The music Melodies to racy tracks The 1930 and 40s, were defined by nasal renditions by the likes of KL Saigal (Jab Dil Hi Tooth Gaya, Shahjahan, 1946) and Noorjehan. The 50s were all about soul-soothing melodies. Songs like it Pyaar Huya Ekraar Huya (Shree 420 1952) or Jaane Woh Kaise Log The (Pyaasa 1957) became epics. However, it was R D Burman, who single-handedly changed the course of Bollywood film music, and introduced westernised tunes in songs in the 60s. While 70s remained the decade of a mix of soft and fast numbers, the 80s turned Bollywood music on its head, as Bappi Lahiri brought in disco music. Disco Dancer (1982) marked the beginning of a range of high-on-noise, low-on-lyrics songs. The 1990s churned out several hugely forgettable numbers, except for musical hits like 1942 a Love Story (1994), Saajan (1991). The 2000s have been the decade of experimenting – thus Sonu Nigam and Yo Yo Honey Singh both find place in the same film. The dialogues Melodrama to quirky Power-packed dialogues get the maximum seetis from the audience, and why not. A film is often remembered for its iconic dialogues. Kaun kambakth bardasht karne ke liye peeta hai, from Devdas that’s a favourite even with the ‘daarubaaz’ of today. However, dialogues like Kitne aadmi the, and â€Å"Kuttey main tera khoon pi jaunga† from Sholay, â€Å"Pushpa, I hate tears† from Amar Prem and â€Å"Mere paas maa hai† from Deewar; have gone on to become epic. In the 1990s, heroes impressed their lady love with dialogues. Thus came, â€Å"I love you Kkk†¦ Kiran† (Darr), â€Å"Bade bade shehron mein aisi chhoti chhoti baatein hoti rehti hain.† (DDLJ 1995). In 2000, quirky dialogues such as, Main apni favourite hoon (Jab We Met), Picture Abhi Baki Hai Dost (Om Shanti Om) are the big hits among film buffs.

A Child in Pre-Revolutionary America

Perhaps I am too young to be on the right side, my mother told me.   As a five year old in Pre-Revolutionary America, I am unable to understand the true meaning of the â€Å"writs of assistance† or the â€Å"Sugar Act.†However, I feel enough for my family and the people I love to want nonviolence to prevail.   In other words, I would not want bloodshed to enter my home, nor affect the friends I have got here, including the few British friends I have recently made and who are honestly good to me.   I know about the Indian clashes against the British.While they were happening – as they still do from time to time – my mother was silent most of the time.   Yet, my father, who is a prominent lawyer and the owner of a large estate, which is referred to as a Colonial home, told me everything possible about a bigger war that may or may not be started, depending upon the conditions between the British Empire and the people of the Colonies.My father is a gre at man.   My mother tells me that Dad is visited by some of the brightest people in the Colonies.   And yet, I cannot force myself to believe in him when he tells me that the people are generally unhappy with the British Empire.When I was born, the British Empire was my so-called ruler anyway.   I did not care that they formed my government.   Neither do I care now.   I would rather allow the British Empire to stay on and pursue their goals in the Colonies, than to see war kill my family and all of my friends.   My mother, who writes poetry, tells me that my father might have to go to some of the most influential people of America and advise them in the event of a big war.   I do not want to believe her.More importantly, I fear for her more than anything else, perhaps, in the event that my father goes away during the big war that is expected and not expected at the same time.   At one time when my father became seriously ill, my mother nearly died of sadness.   She wrote and published a beautiful, sad poem in the New York Mercury at the time.   When she read the poem to me and told me how appreciated the poem was by all the people who knew her, I informed her that she need not be sad anymore because she has succeeded.She reminded me, however, that it is perfectly appropriate to be sad in the event of one’s husband’s illness.   I changed the topic then.   But I somehow gathered that at the back of her mind was the fear that my father might lose his life during a big war with the British Empire that the people in the Colonies were about ready to wage.   Perhaps a poem would not be able to alleviate her suffering at a time like that!The other day when some so-called intellectuals were visiting my home, my mother told me that they were asking all the women at the gathering, including herself, to consider working on the fashions of the times that would have nothing whatsoever to do with the British imported fashions.   Mom explained to me later that even my clothing was British most of the time.   Dad said that that was not true.Perhaps it is only in part true that I wear the kinds of clothes that British children wear in America.   And so, Mom was asked along with many other women to start thinking of new fashions that could be introduced in the absence of the British after the big expected and unexpected war.Although I do not know yet what the new fashions may or may not be, I would be interested in seeing my mother act creatively while designing the new clothes, and stop thinking about war while she is at it.   Maybe she does not think about war all of the time.   But I feel that she does.

Influences of Socio-Economic Status of Married Males on Their Reproductive Health in Tehsil Summandri

Influences of Socio-Economic Status of Married Males on Their Reproductive Health in Tehsil Summandri Free Online Research Papers ABSTRACT Reproductive health is a basic human right which refers that a state of complete physical, social, and mental well being. The basic objectives of the research were to know the influences socio-economic status of married males on their reproductive health. The universe of the present study was (Tehsil Summandri) Faisalabad city. A simple random sampling technique was used for the selection of areas. The sample for present study was 180 respondents (Males who was married). An interview schedule was developed in the light of objectives of the study. Before collecting the actual data, in order to check the workability, validity of the interviewing schedule, pre- testing was necessary in the same universe. The data collected was statistically analyzed by using computer application software Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Gamma statistics was applied to ascertain the relationship between certain independent and dependent variables. On the basis of the present research/ some measures were suggested to slow down the high fertility rate in the country and to improve the reproductive health status of the individuals. INTRODUCTION The fundamental problem that the world is facing today is a substantial increase in population. It is particularly important for the developing countries which are striving hard for improving the socio economic conditions of their people. Gender is socio economic determined, it is it refers to masculine and feminine qualities, behavior patterns, roles and responsibilities etc. It is variable and not constant and changes from time to time, culture to culture and society to society and even family to family. Many other practices like early marriage, sexual and domestic violence contribute to all ill reproductive health (Mussarat, 2003). Reproductive health therefore implies that people are able to have safe and satisfying sex life and they have the capability to reproduce and freedom to decide if, when and how often to do so. It has got major boost since the time it has been illustrated in the international conference on population and development (ICPD) in Cairo in 1994. The issue was also discussed in Beijing that reproductive and the sexuality are the basic human right (Mir, 2003). The Ministry of Population Welfare has been mainly responsible for family planning services. However, the ministry of Health with its lager service delivery network has a greater share of responsibility of providing reproductive health services. In particular, the national programme for FP and PHC represents the largest scale intervention for the delivery of FP and RH services in the form of the Lady Health Workers (LHW) now integrated with the Village based family planning workers. Another indicator of increasing integration of reproductive health services is the jointly formulated National Reproductive Health Services Package, which clearly defines the priority areas for intervention and training. (Akmam, 2002). The health status of women in Pakistan is directly linked to womens low social status. Pakistans poor position internationally is seen in UNDPs Gender related Development Index (GDI) 2000, where Pakistan currently ranks 135 out of 174 countries. On the Gender Empowerment Measurement (GEM) 1999, Pakistan ranked 100 out of the 102 countries measured. Consequently, improving womens reproductive health through the use of contraceptives and spacing of children will not only improve womens health but also reduce population growth and allow women more time to pursue economic activities (Womens Health Project, 1999). According to data from Demographic and Health Surveys from nine Latin American countries, women with no education have large families of 6-7 children, whereas better educated women have family sizes of 2-3 children, analogous to those of women in the developed world. Despite these wide differentials in actual fertility, desired fam ily size is surprisingly homogeneous throughout the educational spectrum. While the least educated and the best educated women share the small family norm, the gap in contraceptive prevalence between the two groups ranges from 20-50 percentage points. Better educated women have broader knowledge, higher socioeconomic status and less fatalistic attitudes toward reproduction than do less educated women. Results of a regression analysis indicate that these cognitive, economic and attitudinal assets mediate the influence of schooling on reproductive behavior and partly explain the wide fertility gap between educational strata (Juarez, 2004). OBJECTIVES 1) To find out the influences of socio economic status of individuals upon their reproductive health. 2) To find out the reasons because of which people do not avail the health services regarding reproduction even they are available. 3) To suggest measures to the policy makers for designing an appropriate policy to enhance the reproductive health status for both males. REVIEW Amin et al (2002) reported that the demographic literature has always emphasized that the changes in attitude and behavior of population, which influence demographic outcomes, depends on the socio economic and cultural setup of a population and the changes in the circumstances. It is true that in the socio economic change is conceivably related to ones nation of residence, especially because of so much socio economic change is driven by or at least by the changes in ones more immediate environment. Khan (2003) reported that in Punjab male needs and attitudes regarding reproductive health found that men and service providers all feel that men lack awareness and knowledge of reproductive problems and hold certain misconceptions about sexuality. These issues include infertility, weakness/ sexual â€Å"debility† and masturbation. Ahmad (2004) reported that the levels of fertility are strongly associated with level of education. Men who have some education have a TFR at least one and half child lower than those with no education. Rashida (2004) found that family planning services need to be improved/ with the aim of weakening the obstacles that prevent Pakistani couples from practicing effective contraception. The priority that must be given to improving family planning services. Awareness of contraception is almost universal among Pakistani women who have induced abortions, and a strikingly large fraction of these women have past experience with contraception. Juarez (2004) reported that the family planning programs have played an important role in providing modern contraceptive methods to women wanting to stop or delay childbearing but whole are not practicing contraception. Ranjani, (2005) reported that the governments (Pakistan, China, Sri-Lanka, Indonesia) seek to provide integrated RH services through multiple delivery points (PHC clinics, FP/MCH clinics, RTI clinics), with the implementation varying across the kind of clinics. Anonymous (2005) stated that Pakistan is one of the few Asian countries that, despite a long history of donor support and organized family planning programs, has had a relatively low level of contraceptive use. It is believed that social and cultural factors have mitigated against greater contraceptive use in Pakistan. METHODOLOGY: Methodological techniques are very important for analyzing sociological pursuits and empirical research. The universe of the present study was comprised of males who were married. Tehsil Summandri was selected conveniently from Faisalabad city as a universe. The data was collected in (20) days, by the researchers in a face to face interview. Interviewing schedule was devised and data was collected through personal interviews with males. The interviewing schedule consisted of structured and unstructured questions, prepared in English, but at the time of interview, Urdu and Punjabi were used depending on the convenience of the respondents. Pre-testing of the interviewing schedule was conducted on 10 respondents. After pre-testing, necessary changes were introduced in the interviewing schedule. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Percentage distribution of the respondents according to their economically active male member Economically active Frequency Percentage 00 10 5.6 1-2 135 75.0 3-4 29 16.1 6+ 6 3.3 Total 180 100 Percentage distribution of the respondents according to number of currently alive children. Currently alive children Frequency Percentage 00 11 6.1 1-4 143 79.4 5+ 26 14.4 Percentage distribution of the respondents according to their died children Name of children Frequency Percentage 00 165 91.7 1-2 15 8.3 Total 180 100 Percentage distribution of the respondents according to any problem during reproductive life Any problem Frequency Percentage Yes 50 27.8 No 127 70.6 NA 3 1.7 Total 180 100 Percentage distribution of the respondents according to use of any form of Contraception Use of contraception Frequency Percentage Yes 51 28.3 No 129 71.7 Total 180 100 Percentage distribution of the respondents according to currently using Any method of contraception Currently using Frequency Percentage Yes 59 32.8 No 121 67.2 Total 180 100 Higher the educational attainment lower will be the number of children. Association between education of the respondents and their number of children. Total No Wedu Total Children Nil Primary Middle Secondary Graduation Master Nil 00 0 0 4 0 1 1 6 .0% .0% 66.7% .0% 16.7% 16.7% 100.0% 1-4 34 34 11 38 19 11 147 23.1% 23.1% 7.5% 25.9% 12.9% 7.5% 100.0% 5+ 22 1 2 1 1 0 27 81.5% 3.7% 7.4% 3.7% 3.7% .0% 100.0% Total 56 35 17 39 21 12 180 31.1% 19.4% 9.4% 21.7% 11.7% 6.7% 100.0% Lower the age at the time of marriage higher will be the number of children. Association between age at the time of marriage of the respondents and their number of children. No Of Total Age mar Total Children 14-23 24-35 14-23 00 4 2 6 66.7% 33.3% 100.0% 1-4 37 110 147 25.2% 74.8% 100.0% 5+ 13 14 27 48.1% 51.9% 100.0% Total 54 126 180 30.0% 70.0% 100.0% N Chil * Age mar Crosstabulation MAIN FINDINGS A large number of the respondents i.e. 75.0 percent male members were 1-2 economically active. A large number of the respondents i.e. 79.4 percent had 1-4 alive children. A very small number of the respondents i.e. 8.3 percent had died children which were 1-2. Majority of the respondents i.e. 70.6 percent were not facing any problem during reproductive life. A large number of respondents i.e. 71.7 percents were not using any form of contraception. A large number of respondents i.e. 67.2 percents were not currently using any form of contraception. A large number of the respondents i.e. 66.7 percents were middle. Education play important role. Education creates awareness. A large number of respondents i.e. 66.5 percents were married at the age of 14-23. Early age marriages also creates number of problems. SUGGESTIONS: The present study has clearly emphasized the importance of education in ones life and in the attitude formation of an individual towards fertility and family size. In order to make the family planning program a success/ the government has to put more effective measures for promoting family planning program in the country. More family planning motivational cum health center should be established in urban areas where the provision of cheaper and more effective contraceptives should be ensured. Enhancing age at marriage should also be included in agenda of population strategies for achieving reduced population growth. The family program should be brought to the door steps of those who need the services. We have very conservative society and many couples are shy to visit clinics. Therefore/ they should be approached privately. Late marriage should be encouraged. LITERATURE CITED: Ahmad, I. 2004. Pakistan Voluntary Health and Nutrition Association (PVHNA). Akmam W, 2002. Womens Education and Fertility Rates in Developing Countries, With Special Reference to Bangladesh EJAIB 138-143. Lecturer in Sociology, University of Rajshahi/ Bangladesh; Amin, S., A.M. Basu, and R. Stephenson, 2002. Sapatial variation in contraceptive use in Bangladesh: Looking beyond the borders. Demography 39(2): 251-267. Anonymous, S.2005. â€Å"Economics and financing of reproductive health† who.int/reproductive-health/economics/contact.en. html Juarez, F. 2004. â€Å"Health service utilization and its determinants prenatal care in Ecuador Poverty, Fertility and Family Planning Ed: CICRED Paris. Khan, A. 2003. Adolescent and youth reproductive health in Pakistan. Status/issues/ polices and programs. Population Council of Pakistan. Mir, A. 2003, Provision of Reproductive Health Services in Pakistan. Population Association of Pakistan/ Islamabad Mussarat, R. 2003. Community Medicine. Pakistan Institute of Development, Islamabad. Nachmias, C. 1992 Research Methods in the social sciences published by Edwards Arnold. A Division of Hodder Stoughton/ London. RanJani. K. 2005. Health sector reforms and sexual reproductive health services. Lessons and Research Gaps Emerging from the Initiative for Sexual and Reproductive Rights in Health Reforms. Rashida, G, 2003, Unwanted pregnancies and post abortion complications in Pakistan/ report from health care professionals and health facilities. Research Report No 20. Research Papers on Influences of Socio-Economic Status of Married Males on Their Reproductive Health in Tehsil SummandriResearch Process Part OnePETSTEL analysis of IndiaThe Relationship Between Delinquency and Drug UseMarketing of Lifeboy Soap A Unilever ProductThe Project Managment Office SystemMoral and Ethical Issues in Hiring New EmployeesGenetic Engineering19 Century Society: A Deeply Divided EraDefinition of Export QuotasTwilight of the UAW

10 Threats to Monarch Migration

10 Threats to Monarch Migration Though monarch butterflies as a species are not in danger of extinction in the near future, their unique North American migration may cease without intervention. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) calls the monarch migration an endangered biological phenomenon. Migrating monarchs face threats throughout their journey, from their overwintering sites to their breeding grounds. Here are 10 threats to monarch migration, all of them the result of human activities. Until we change our ways, monarchs will likely continue to decline throughout their North American migration route. 1. Roundup-Resistant Crops American corn and soybean growers now plant mostly genetically-modified crops that are resistant to the herbicide Roundup. Rather than till the soil to control weeds in their fields, farmers can now plant their crops first, and then spray their fields with Roundup to kill the weeds. The weeds, including milkweed, die back, while the corn or soybeans continue to grow. Common milkweed (Asclepias syriaca), perhaps the most important monarch host plant of all the milkweeds, can still thrive in a tilled field. Ask any gardener who has planted a patch of it about how quickly it spreads, and how hard it is to keep from resprouting. But common milkweed (or any milkweed species, for that matter) cannot tolerate these repeated applications of Roundup on farm fields. Milkweed in agricultural fields is believed to have been a food source for up to 70% of monarchs in the past; the loss of these plants could seriously impact the population. Roundup doesnt discriminate, either, so nectar plants tha t once bloomed between crops have disappeared in these areas, too. 2. Insecticide Use This might seem like a no-brainer (and perhaps it is), but monarch populations can be impacted by exposure to insecticides, even those intended for controlling other insects. In some cases, the insecticide in question may be deemed safe to other, non-targeted wildlife, but often no studies exist to prove the product wont harm monarch butterflies. Fear of West Nile virus leads many communities to conduct aerial spraying programs of pesticides intended to kill mosquitoes, to the possible detriment of monarchs. Permethrin, for example, is used to control adult mosquitoes, but one study done by the Monarch Lab at the University of Minnesota showed that permethrin residue on milkweed foliage is highly lethal to monarch caterpillars, particularly in the early instars. Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis)is a bacteria that specifically targets caterpillars. It is applied aerially to forests, to combat pests like the gypsy moth, and inserted into genetically modified corn, to help the plants repel pe sts like the corn borer. Studies show that windblown pollen from GM corn can kill monarch larvae if the toxic pollen lands on milkweed foliage. Fortunately, recent research suggests Bt-laden corn pollen may not pose a serious threat to the overall monarch population. 3. Roadside Maintenance Activities Milkweed grows well in disturbed habitats like roadsides. It could be said that most monarch enthusiasts can spot a milkweed patch while driving 60 miles per hour down the highway! One would think such an easy growing host plant would give monarchs an edge, but unfortunately, the people who maintain our right-of-ways usually view milkweed as a weed, and nothing more. In many places, the roadside vegetation is mowed, often right when milkweed is at its peak and crawling with caterpillars. In some cases, roadside vegetation is treated with herbicides. As farmers eliminate milkweed from their fields with Roundup, roadside milkweed stands will be more important to migrating monarchs. 4. Ozone Pollution Ozone, a major component of smog, is highly toxic to plants. Some plants are more sensitive to ozone pollution than others. Milkweed is highly sensitive to ozone at ground level, so much so that it is considered a reliable bio-indicator of ozone pollution. Milkweed plants affected by ozone develop dark lesions on their foliage, a symptom known as stippling. While we know the quality of milkweed suffers in areas of high ground-level ozone, we know little about how this may impact monarch larvae that feed on milkweed plants in smoggy areas. 5. Deforestation Overwintering monarchs need forests for protection from the elements, and they need very specific forests at that. The population that breeds east of the Rocky Mountains migrates to mountains in central Mexico, where they can roost in dense stands of oyamel fir trees. Unfortunately, those trees are a valuable resource, and even after the monarch wintering site was designated as a preserve, logging activities continued illegally. In the 20 years from 1986 to 2006, an estimated 10,500 hectares of forest were either lost entirely or disturbed to a degree that they no longer provided suitable winter cover for the butterflies. Since 2006, the Mexican government has been more vigilant in enforcing the logging ban within the preserve, and thankfully, deforestation has decreased significantly in recent years. 6. Water Diversion Since long before the monarchs were found clinging to trees by the millions in Mexico, Mexican families have subsisted off the land in and around the oyamel forests. Local residents need water, both for their homes and for their cattle and crops. In recent years, villagers have started diverting water from mountain streams, using plastic pipes to intercept and direct it to their homes and farms. Not only does this leave streambeds dry, but it also requires the overwintering monarchs to fly longer distances in search of water. And the farther they fly, the more energy the butterflies require to survive until spring. 7. Real Estate Development California boasts some of the countrys highest property values, so its no surprise that monarchs on the west coast might get squeezed out by land developers. Both breeding habitat and wintering sites are at risk. Remember, the monarch butterfly is not an endangered species, so it isnt afforded the protections of the Endangered Species Act. So far, butterfly enthusiasts and monarch lovers have done a good job of pleading for the conservation of overwintering sites, which are scattered from San Diego County to Marin County along the California coastline. But vigilance must be maintained to make sure the monarchs keep this prime real estate. 8. Removal of Non-Native Eucalyptus Trees Why would the removal of non-native trees impact the monarch butterfly, a native species? In the mid-to-late 19th century, Californians imported and planted no less than 100 species of eucalyptus from Australia. These hardy trees grew like weeds along the California coast. Western monarch butterflies found the groves of eucalyptus trees provided ideal protection in the winter, even better than the stands of native pines where they roosted in the past. The western population of North American monarchs now relies heavily on these stands of introduced trees to see them through the winter. Unfortunately, eucalyptus is known for its propensity to fuel wildfires, so these forests are not so beloved by land managers. We may see a decline in monarch numbers where the non-native trees are removed. 9. Climate Change Monarchs need very specific climate conditions to survive the winter, and this is why their overwintering sites are limited to just 12 mountains in Mexico and a handful of eucalyptus groves in California. It doesnt matter whether you believe climate change is caused by humans (it is) or not, climate change is real and it is happening now. So what will that mean for the migrating monarchs? Scientists used climate change models to predict what conditions at the overwintering sites will be in the near future, and the models paint a gloomy picture for the monarchs. By 2055, climate change models predict the oyamel forests of Mexico will see precipitation similar to what the area experienced in 2002 when an estimated 70-80% of the monarchs in the two largest overwintering sites died. Why is wet weather so detrimental to the monarchs? In a drier climate, the butterflies can adjust to the cold by a process known as supercooling. Wet butterflies freeze to death. 10. Tourism The very people who care the most about monarchs may be contributing to their demise. We didnt even know where the monarchs spent their winters until 1975, but in the decades since, millions of tourists have made the pilgrimage to central Mexico to see this mass gathering of butterflies. Each winter, up to 150,000 visitors travel to the remote oyamel forests. The impact of 300,000 feet on the steep mountain trails causes considerable soil erosion. Many tourists travel by horseback, kicking up dust that blocks spiracles and literally suffocates the butterflies. And each year, more businesses pop up to cater to butterfly tourists, requiring more resources and creating more waste. Even in the U.S., tourism has sometimes hurt more than help the monarchs. A motel built at one of the California overwintering locations degraded the forest and caused the butterflies to abandon the site. Sources North American Monarch Conservation Plan (PDF), prepared by the Secretariat of the Commission for Environmental Cooperation (CEC).Conservation Initiative in North America to Protect Monarch Butterfly, Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS).Monarch Butterfly Conservation in North America, U.S. Forest Service.Migrating Monarch Butterflies in Monterey County, Ventana Wildlife Society.Species Profile (Monarch), Species at Risk Public Registry, Government of Canada.The Effects of Mosquito-Control Applications of Permethrin on Monarch Butterfly (Danaus plexippus) Larvae, Sara Brinda, 2004.Lethal and Sublethal Effects of Resmethrin on Nontargeted Species, Meredith Blank, 2006.

Financial Crisis The Great Depression Coursework

Financial Crisis The Great Depression - Coursework Example They perceived to have transferred the risks by practising dependency on unregulated investors through mechanisms like Special Purpose Vehicles and Special Investment Vehicles (SPVs & SIVs). The current economic crisis thus occurred as the result of exposure to Market Risks due to such risk transfer mechanisms that caused many loopholes in the Credit & Liquidity Risk Management. The entire disaster happened in the lending to Sub-Prime customers in home mortgage markets, which are individuals or companies not having clean credit history or regular source of income. The banks lend loans to Sub-Prime customers to avail the benefits of higher interest rates and used the mechanism of "Securitization" to secure themselves that essentially is the mechanism of distributing the risk of the lending to the investors outside the Banking system through a process called "Conduiting". The process of "Securitization" gave confidence to banks in this risky business and hence resulted in the boom of C redit Derivative Market. The money was believed to be flowing through these "conduits" directly from "investors to the borrowers" through the SPV and SIV system. The risk assessors never imagined that the underlying collaterals (houses) will face a crash in prices to a global level that would be uncontrollable by even the governments. Even the external rating agencies couldn't predict the Sub-Prime crisis because the Securitization Process was extremely complex and the dependency of valuations was upon scattered and unreliable data inside as well as outside the core banking system. This system expanded uncontrollably and the market competitiveness increasing exponentially resulting in banks sanctioning loans bypassing essential procedures as if there was "no time for risk management". The actual risks got covered under hyped data and fair valuation became a matter of joke to be cracked. [Schmitz, Michael. C and Forray, Susan J. pp28-30; Clerc, Laurent. 2008. pp1-7] Objective of the Research The following are the main objectives of my research: 1. Find out what the cause/s of the current financial crisis is/are; 2. Find out what effect the crisis is having on the United Kingdom, for example in terms of monetary power, and; 3. How individuals and businesses are affected; 4. Conclude what is being done, and what can be done about our current

Strategic hospitality management Literature review

Strategic hospitality management - Literature review Example In discussing about the hospitality brands, that are owned, managed or franchised by the group, it can be said that the brands has a presence in almost every category like luxury, full service, select service, extended stay suites as well as timeshare. The Hilton Worldwide in the year 2011 was credited as the fastest growing major hotel company. As of the year 2011, the hospitality chain accumulated around 30 million HHonors members out of which 3.5 million members joined in the year 2011 itself. The hotel brand has presence in various continents around the world like the Americas, Europe, Middle East, Africa as well as Asia. Vital information about the company is given below in a summarised format: In 2011, the hotel company had an inventory of over 630,000 rooms all over the globe. The company is the owner of multiple popular brands which are present in around 90 countries. In the year 2006, the annual revenue of the hospitality company was around 7.44 billion USD. Journalistic Art icle While performing a strategic performance analysis for the Hilton Worldwide from the investors’ point of view, it is important to focus on conducting an overview of the global hospitality industry along with estimating the growth of the company in the recent times. Focus also needs to be given on the prospects of growth for the company in markets around the world. Overview of the global hospitality industry In discussing about the global hospitality industry, it is important to highlight that the global macro factors are bound to have a strong influence in this particular industry. Talking on this note, it needs to be stated that in the current years, the global hospitality industry has been affected in a significant manner by the political and economic factors around the world. In the year 2012, the global hospitality industry suffered the impacts that generated from US presidential election, sovereign debt crisis of the Euro zone, political disturbances and tension in v arious regions of the Middle East along with slowing down of Asian economies. Talking on this note, it can be stated that in the year 2012, the hospitality sector of the US, especially in the locations of New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco as well as Chicago displayed indications of growth and expansion. A report by the globally popular consulting firm Ernst and Young revealed that the average revenue per available room as of the year 2012 touched the levels of 2007. A deeper analysis revealed that the growth in the average revenue per room happened mainly because of the increase in occupancy levels as well as average daily rate (ADR). It was also found that the influence of the factors like high barriers to entry, longer and extended periods of development of hotel property as well as reduced dependence on wholesalers has greatly helped the upscale, upper upscale as well as luxury segment players of the hospitality industry of the region to attain an increase the revenue per avai lable room (RevPAR) in the recent times. The RevPAR for the Asia Pacific region, barring countries like India and New Zealand also recorded an increase in the year 2012. The prolonged political disturbances in some of the major markets of Middle East regions resulted in generation of mixed performance for this particular