The Fundamentals of Microbiology Essay Topics You Can Benefit From Starting Today

The Fundamentals of Microbiology Essay Topics You Can Benefit From Starting Today The Number One Question You Must Ask for Microbiology Essay Topics In school, essay writing has been made to be part of our learning activity. Before you begin composing your essay it may be wise to look though a number of the legal articles to be able to obtain the understating of current legal controversies and certainly to explore the way your essay can be finished. Be that as it could, the topic for your essay is a vital thing that has to be chosen carefully and with higher precision. Finding out how to compose an essay is something which will help students not just in their school and college career, but throughout their life too. Essay writing is definitely thought to be part of academic life and essay writing demands certain abilities or the area of the writer. Our essay writing system utilizes the current writing technology in order to make sure that writings that are provided to clients are of top quality. Essay plans can be useful in reminding you of important points that may be used to cover in your essay. The writers in the custom writing company should have the ability to compose persuasive speech utilizing formal language. Biology essay topics ought to be detailed so they can be differentiated from other kinds of papers. When the essay on biology was written, a revision is vital to guarantee the content is in order. Biology research paper topics need a lot of research, analytical abilities, exemplary formatting abilities and appropriate mastery of the appropriate content taught in a usual classroom setting. To aid you in finding a topic with the ideal balance I have listed 10 of the ideal micr obiology research topics for you to pick from. Fallacies happen when the writer doesn't have strong support for those arguments to be stated. Sum up the primary points and main arguments that you're going to support or refute. Each argument needs to be stated in a different paragraph starting from the strongest one. Anyway, you should also study different writers arguments for and against the exact same or similar topics. Thus, the above told six position essay topics will allow you to compose a great piece to position essay, but be sure whatever topic you're selecting is not difficult to understand and on which you get a good expertise, otherwise you won't be in a position to create sturdy arguments. Among other requirements for the prolonged essay, there's a point about topics. Last words of advice are to ask your teacher after deciding the subject of analogy essays since they might would like you to write on something else or claim you haven't crafted the ideal topic etc.. Writing persuasive speech is a difficult job for many students. The writers don't have the proper qualifications. Writing sections, it's very vital for you in the event you write your own words. Don't just pick a topic since it's the dilemma of the moment. Offer some suggestions on how best to lower the range of men and women who fall sick with flu each year. Since picking out a topic isn't a kid's play, it is going to be useful if you're likely to think about a number of the subsequent topics you may rather research on. When picking a biology topic, ensure you know what's happening. Microbiology Essay Topics and Microbiology Essay Topics - The Perfect Combination Protozoa is genuinely a surviving organism. Biology is a significant science that interests many men and women. If you're in demand of philosophy papers, our online writing system is the ideal spot to put your order. Principal source refers to any work that could be retrieved originally. Since biology needs a lot of research, give us the chance to work for your benefit and help you save time for different activities. You're a student free of access or liberty to do experiments and neither have the essential resources to achieve that. Indeed, it's also fundamental to understand what sort of people are likely to read your essay. You are able to ask people that you understand about related interests. You may also listen to peo ple and what they're speaking about you might secure some cool ideas from them. It's recommendable to compose issues which are presently affecting the lives of a lot of people.

Racism in Song of Solomon, Push and Life of Olaudah...

Expressing Racism in Song of Solomon, Push and The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano African-Americans often are discriminated against, suffer from a barrage of racial remarks, and even endure racially based acts of violence. Unfortunately, this crime against humanity goes both ways. Those being oppressed may retaliate as a matter of self-defense, sometimes becoming that which they despise most. In many cases the Black man is forced into developing racist mores against the White man due to past history and to the fact that Whites discriminate against them. The victim of oppression can become the oppressor and, in fact, this reverse racism may easily develop into a feeling of superiority for Black people.†¦show more content†¦In comparing the cultural aspects of his home country of Africa he says, We are almost a nation of dancers, musicians, and poets. All joyful occasions are celebrated with great ceremonies of dancing, feasting, and music. The women wear golden jewelry (14), both men and women perfume themselves, and cleanliness is of the utmost importance (15). Neighbors help one another build homes and there are plenty of all natural resources. Equiano states, we live in a country where nature is prodigal of her favours, our wants are few, and easily supplied (16). Our land is uncommonly rich and fruitful, and produces all kinds of vegetable in great abundance (17). Equianos opinion of America is not as positive. In America he must deal with the frustration of not being able to speak the same language as fellow slaves. He is introduced to many new, frightening and curious contraptions. For example, he witnesses a female slave in an iron muzzle, he sees a picture of a man on a wall that frightens him, and he discovers a clock for the first time. Equiano, who was fanning his master while he slept, kept a watchful eye on the clock and was afraid it would tell the gentleman anything [he] might do amiss. Equiano also must suffer the disrespect of not being able to keep his own name. During his time en route to Virginia, and once there, he bears the name of Michael, Jacob, and finally Gustavus Vassa (39-40). But it is the

Agile Methodology And Pmbok Samples †MyAssignmenthelp.com

Question: Discuss about the Agile Methodology And Pmbok. Answer: Project Management Methodology Project management methodology provides different tools for the project managers in order to complete the project efficiently. The methodologies are the well-defined logicalprocesses, which contains orderly steps (Snyder, 2014). Those steps are needed to be followed in the compilation phase of the project in order to get the desired result. There are different methodologies for the project compilation .Choosing of the methodology depends on the type of project. All the methodologies generally follow the guidelines mentioned in the PMBOK. The project methodologies help the project managers to follow the tasks sequentially so that the execution of the project can be done in time maintaining the estimated cost. Role of Project Management Methodology: It helps the project managers to develop and execute the project within the defined time. Maintaining the methodology also helps the project to meet every details mentioned in the requirement. The general guidelines help achieve desired attributes of the project. PMBOK: Project ManagementBody of Knowledge is the general guideline which defines the desired attributes of a project methodology and it also mentions the basic stages of compilation of the project. The guidelines of PMBOK is globally accepted. The first two chapters of the PMBOK guideline consists of the general definitions of different components of project management. The necessary tools and methods for the management of the project has been described from chapter 4 to chapter 12. The application of PMBOK for evaluation of the management methodology includes five steps. These steps are- initialization of the project or the starting of the project, planning of the project compilation, execution of the plan, controlling and monitoring the status of the project and the last step is closing of the project. All these steps are inter-related to each other. Agile Project Management Methodology: Agile project management methodology is considered the modern methodology for the project management. It is the form that can be derived from merging SDLC with the iteration. In case of project methodology there are many conventional models like waterfall model which were followed before (Sverrisdottir, IngasonJonasson, 2014). The advancement of technology has increased and changed the requirement of the project. In this case applying agile methodology is helpful. In Agile methodology the end users and the developers work together in order to determine the priority of the required feature of the project (Tsai et al., 2016). The main focus of this methodology is the progress of the project and this methodology encourages face to face communication in order to get a clearer view of the requirement of the project. The agile methodology defines the combination of various methodology under one name. Agile system development has four categories- Product Customer Performance Team of the project Mainly there are two agile methods, they are-scrum and extreme programming (XP). In case of extreme programming the user requirements re documented as the user stories (Abrahamsson et al.,2017). User stories are then transferred into object oriented modelling environment called class diagram. The whole system is then transferred into a series of versions called releases. In scrum methods there are three important roles available- Scrum master- This role is similar to the role of project manager Product Owner- The role of this part is to ensure that the project has met all the requirements. Development team- The development team is responsible for delivering the quality project in time. There are few terms, which are related to the scrum method of agile methodology. Product Blockage: The team decides the priority of the features in the project. Sprint- It defines the iteration that is presents for a timespan and after that the delivery of the complete project is done. Daily Scrum- It defines the short meetings between the stakeholders of the project in order to understand the requirement more clearly. Advantages of Agile method: Agile methodology ensures high product quality as there are several methodology is used in the agile method. Using agile method in project development, higher customer satisfaction can be received as the requirement of the project is discussed between the users and the developers. It reduces the risk involved in the project and increases control over the project. Comparison between Agile methodology and PMBOK Stages Agile PMBOK Starting of project This step is known as the vision statement. In this stage determination of timeline of the iteration, goals and the formation of team are decided. In PMBOK this stage is known as initialization stage(Ghosh,2015). In this stage the goal and objective of the project is determined. Planning Release plan for the particular version is done in the beginning of the project and the sprint planning is done throughout the project. Plans to execute the project are created at the initial stage of the project and updating of the plans happens throughout the project running phase. Execution of the project This stage is known as team driven development in agile methodology (Ahimbisibwe, Cavana Daellenbach,2015). Team development works on the product blockage and the product owner determines the user story on which the sprint needs to be done. In this case the tools used are- story prioritization and sprint blockage. In the execution phase of PMBOK the plans, which were determined at the beginning of the project are executes in the execution phase. Controlling and monitoring of the project In agile methodology time and cost of the project are fixed. Only the changes in the project is monitored and controlled. There are four constrains- cost,time,risk and quality are monitored and controlled throughout the time span. Closing of the project There is no formal closing and feedback taking process in agile model. Instead of that retrospective meeting is organized in order to determine the further modification on the project. Formal closing of the project is done in the PMBOK (Landry McDaniel, 2016). The feedbacks about the project are taken after the evaluation of the project. Identification of Agile method with PLC: Figure 1: Agile methodology and PLC (Source: Landry McDaniel,2015) The Determination of preferable approach: The discussion and the comparative study between agile and PMBOK indicate that the application of agile methodology in order to develop a project is more beneficial (LandryMcDaniel,2015). PMBOK contains the traditional framework of project management, whereas the advancement of technology has changed the requirement of the project and there are changes happening in the way of developing a project. Agile methodology is the improved and modernized version of the project management which enables the new methodology of completing the project, which is realistic and easy to follow. References Abrahamsson, P., Salo, O., Ronkainen, J., Warsta, J. (2017). Agile software development methods: Review and analysis.arXiv preprint arXiv:1709.08439. Ahimbisibwe, A., Cavana, R. Y., Daellenbach, U. (2015). A contingency fit model of critical success factors for software development projects: A comparison of agile and traditional plan-based methodologies.Journal of Enterprise Information Management,28(1), 7-33. Ghosh, S. (2015). Systemic Comparison of the Application of EVM in Traditional and Agile Software Project.Integration,5, 3. Landry, J. P., McDaniel, R. (2015). Agile Preparation Within a Traditional Project Management Course. InProceedings of the EDSIG Conference(p. n3429). Landry, J., McDaniel, R. (2016). Agile Preparation Within a Traditional Project Management Course.Information Systems Education Journal,14(6), 27. Snyder, C. S. (2014). A guide to the project management body of knowledge: PMBOK () guide.Project Management Institute: Newtown Square, PA, USA. Sverrisdottir, H. S., Ingason, H. T., Jonasson, H. I. (2014). The role of the product owner in scrum-comparison between theory and practices.Procedia-Social and Behavioral Sciences,119, 257-267. Tsai, J., Ho, C. Y., Chang, J., Jiang, J. (2016). The Role of Agile Methodology Use and Feedback Attributes in Game Development Projects: Implications for Game Project Quality.

Memorandum Essay Example

Memorandum Essay This is to request your approval to distribute the Depression Handout prepared for the institution’s entire population. The handouts are support materials to the powerpoint presentation to be used during our regular learning session at the end of the month where we scheduled the topic on depression. They are worded and formatted for easy understanding of the inmates and induce support and cooperation. Depression may be experienced by a number of inmates especially that a growing number of them are resorting to alcoholism and drugs. It is important that knowledge of this condition be known to everybody so that whoever may be in having depression will be understood and provided treatment. It is the objective of this project to identify who among the inmates are experiencing depression and may be encouraged to subject themselves to treatment. With this humble project, Michael and many others may be saved from further sufferings and at least make their stay in this institution worthwhile living. For your approval, please. We will write a custom essay sample on Memorandum specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Memorandum specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Memorandum specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer Handling Depression â€Å"I am now the most miserable man living. If what I feel were equally distributed to the whole human family, there would be not one cheerful face on earth. Whether I shall ever be better, I cannot tell. I awfully forebode I shall not. To remain as I am is impossible. I must die or be better it appears to me.† Abhraham Lincoln (who suffered from depression in his adult life) We are one community in this institution. We have among us, those that suffer from depression. It may be them, it may be you. What is important is that you know the circumstances, what it is and how to go about it. 1. What is depression? When you feel an extremely deep sadness and lose the interest in any thing you do, a feeling of worthlessness and hopelessness, and when you cannot eat and sleep well and have problems in concentrating and physical complaints, chances are, you have depression. 2. If you are depressed, then you are not alone. One out of five people will have depression at some time in their life. One in 2o Americans suffer from depression severe enough to require medical treatment. (Bloomfield 1996) 3. You do not have to suffer, depression can be treated. Statistics say that more than 80% of people with depression can be successfully treated. Treatments are usually short term and through medication or counseling therapy. (Bloomfield 1996) Treatment of the illness is usually inexpensive but there is no price for better health, efficiency, improved relationship and enjoyable life. 4. Alcohol and drugs will not help. Resorting to alcohol and drug abuse will not help the situation. It will only worsen and there will be no relief. Many inmates tried to get drunk just to get over the emotional low, but they never felt relieved of it, worse, some tried even suicide which is very dangerous. 5. If you know that you need help then do not hesitate. Let the doctor know. Going through depression on your own does not make you brave. Asking for help is brave. There is no price for better health, efficiency, improved relationship and enjoyable life. References 1. Bloomfield, Harold H. and Peter McWilliams (1996) â€Å"How to Deal with Depression† About.com. Retrieved 12 October 2007 from http://alcoholism.about.com/gi/dynamic/offsite.htm?zi=1/XJ/Yasdn=alcoholismcdn=healthtm=49gps=61_12_788_419f=20su=p247.3.140.ip_p284.8.150.ip_tt=14bt=0bts=0zu=http%3A//www.hypericum.com/dep/dep1a.htm 2. â€Å"Depression† (2007) Psychiatry24x7.com Jannsen Pharmaceutica NV. Retrieved 12 October 2007 from http://www.psychiatry24x7.com/homes/depression.jhtml

Amistad essays

Amistad essays Amistad is a recreation of the true story about an 1839 slave revolt on a small Spanish schooner, La Amistad, ironically the Spanish word for "friendship." Spielberg does a great job in recreating the Amistad revolt that spurred a series of trials beginning in the lower courts of Connecticut and ultimately ending in the Supreme Court. Events following the revolt raise controversial questions about slavery and freedom. This case not only marks a milestone for Abolitionists in their fight against slavery but it also questioned the natural laws of our Constitution. Leading up to the trial of the Africans, Spielberg illustrates the horrors the slaves endured as they were captured and taken from their homes. It is very distressing to see the cruelty that was imposed on the slaves as they were captured. The slaves were shackled and chained, then packed in an unsanitary, overcrowded slave ship, and exposed to inhuman treatment, on the Portuguese slaver Tecora as it makes its way through the Middle Passage towards Cuba. Although a third of the slaves died aboard the Tecora before it reached its destination, those that survived the trip were eventually auctioned into slavery in Havanna, Cuba. The revolt on the slave ship Amistad resulted in the deaths of the captain and cook of the ship. The Africans did spared the lives of two Spaniards who were needed to help navigate the ship back to Africa. The Africans had control of the Amistad for only a short time before it was seized by the U.S. Army, capturing the Africans and forcing them to face a trial, on charges of murder and mutiny. This trial marked the beginning of a court case that dramatically challenged our judicial system. The Abolitionists play a big part in the outcome of this trial. Abolitionists to enhance strong public emotion against slavery begin publicizing the horror stories and brutalities of slavery. They felt sorry for the slaves and with the he ...

Gendered Pronouns

Gendered Pronouns Gendered Pronouns Gendered Pronouns By Maeve Maddox When I began writing about language several decades ago, the pronoun errors that concerned my readers related to number and case. I never imagined that gender would ever become a source of confusion. Nowadays, however, journalists are faced with the question of which pronouns to use when writing about transgender people. The recommendation of the Associated Press and other style authorities is to use whichever pronouns the subject prefers: Use the pronoun preferred by the individuals who have acquired the physical characteristics (by hormone therapy, body modification, or surgery) of the opposite sex and present themselves in a way that does not correspond with their sex at birth. If that preference is not expressed, use the pronoun consistent with the way the individuals live publicly. The recommendation is easy to follow when writing about events that take place after the subject’s transition. Problems arise when a writer wishes to deal with events that preceded the change. For example, the following sentences from a Wikipedia article illustrate the disconcerting effect of making the new pronouns retroactive: Born Bradley Edward Manning in 1987 in  Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, she was the second child of Susan Fox, originally from  Wales, and Brian Manning, an American.   By then, Manning was living as an openly gay man. Her relationship with her father was apparently good. The Wikipedia article on the former Bruce Jenner deals with the problem by avoiding pronouns altogether: After Olympic success, Jenner decided to cash in on celebrity status, which required forgoing any future Olympic competition. Jenners agent George Wallach felt at the time that Jenner had a four-year window to capitalize upon. Wallach reported that Jenner was being considered for the role of  Superman,  which ultimately went to  Christopher Reeve. Journalists are not the only ones struggling with the question of gendered pronouns. University authorities, sensitive to the question of assumptions relating to gender, are rethinking the traditional Male/Female designations on registration forms. According to an article at AP The Big Story, students registering at Harvard are allowed to indicate the pronouns they prefer and are offered the gender-neutral options ze and they. The State University of New York is â€Å"working on a data-collection tool to let students choose among seven gender identities, including trans man, questioning, and genderqueer.† An article in Slate reports that Facebook now offers a drop-down gender menu containing more than fifty designations. Some of the options are cis female, gender fluid, transfeminine, neutrois, and two-spirit. Facebook also provides pronoun options for the feature that alerts users to a friend’s upcoming birthday: wish him a happy birthday wish her a happy birthday wish them a happy birthday Perhaps the day is not too far off when English speakers drop the singular third-person personal pronouns altogether in favor of plural, gender-neutral they and them. Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Style category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:How to spell "in lieu of"Conversational Email

Observing .... ( write observing whom it depends who you are Essay

Observing .... ( write observing whom it depends who you are interviewing ) - Essay Example Introduction Over the weekend, I decided to attend a musical event hosted the Samba Reggae School of Michigan. The event was held on November 17, 2013 along the famous Grand Haven beach of Lake Michigan. It was organized by the Samba Reggae School in collaboration with local fans. It was a daytime event taking place between 12pm to 7pm in the evening. Since I had no opportunity of purchasing advanced tickets, I decided to get rush tickets at the beach, which were retailing at a price of $11.50. This event was a Samba Reggae concert meant for ceremonial and entertainment purposes. The guest artist was Luis Vieira, one of the most popular Samba Reggae artists in South America. The ceremonial event started with a rehearsal by a local percussion team followed by dances and major performance by the guest artist. The entire program for the concert was available at the gate free of charge. Samba Reggae Music At this juncture, we will evaluate integral aspects of Samba Reggae music as used w ithin the context of Brazilian traditional practices. First, it is worth acknowledging the fact that Samba Reggae derives its roots from a combination of Brazilian Samba genre and the Jamaican Reggae music (Pessanha and McGowan 23). A proportional blend between these two distinct genres gave birth to Samba Reggae, a music characterized by moderate tempo instrumentals with frequency ranging from 90-120 beats per minute. Samba Reggae is known for its close association with Carnival ceremony in Brazil, which involves dancers parading through residential villages while dressed in artifacts representing society’s values. It was originally an African ceremony brought into South America by slaves from West Africa. Currently, Samba Reggae is one of the most popular musical genres in Brazil and other Southern nations like Colombia. Personal Experience on the Event Prior to attending the music concert, I was not thoroughly conversant with events taking place in a Samba Reggae concert. I was used to seeing street dancers in television dressed in colorful attire and making magnificent patterns in their dancing formations. Therefore, this concert was my perfect opportunity to experience a Brazilian ceremonial event marked by musical performances. Chronological happenings in the beach were initiated by entrance by the two hosts carrying Samba Reggae flags followed by a short rehearsal performance by two local Samba bands. After the rehearsal, the drum session started preparing for the eagerly awaited Samba parade. The colorful parade which featured approximately 100 dancers of both genders lasted for about 2 hours. Finally, the guest artist, Luis Vieira, was invited to give his 1-hour energetic performance featuring top ten of his best tunes. After experiencing a Samba Reggae concert in person, I developed a high-spirited attitude towards involvement in such colorful events. In the past, I was used to experience Samba Reggae music in recorded videos or audio versions . However, attending an actual concert inspired me to start learning detailed concepts about Brazilian traditional ceremonies, especially the role of music in those ceremonies. In conventional context, I used to lose interest after listening to tunes from this genre for a consecutive 20 minutes. However, the concert was not only fun but also thrilling. Watching real people performing dancing moves

Puerto Rico Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Puerto Rico - Essay Example Through my research, I gained information on some places around the world which tourists categorize to be the most breathtaking amazing sites. My academic course incorporates the subject of tourism; the event enriched my understanding of Puerto Rico as a tourist location. The event is also related to my academic course in the sense that, it has served as a learning resource to me. This event, relates to the holidays we are currently having, in that, it will be a destination site during the holiday. Watching the event is more like watching Puerto Rico being advertised as a tourist destination site. This program relates to both international and global issue since people all around the world are interested with phenomenal tourist site such as Puerto Rico. Since the program acts like an advertisement tool, it influences global tourism (Dietz 87). Watching the event, made me remember, the first experience I had when I was touring the Caribbean Islands. I reminisced over the thrilling feelings I had some years back when I walked on white sandy beaches for the first time. In particular, I appreciate the fact that I got first hand and detailed information on Puerto Rico. The program, showed spectacular features on the landscape, such as different kinds of coral reefs, which I had never come through when researching on tourist sites. Through the program, I gained more knowledge on Puerto Rico’s history. The information on the landscape made me appreciate and understand some geography, because it talked of how the various physical features on the island came to be formed. (Dietz

Regions Chart and Written Response Essay Example for Free

Regions Chart and Written Response Essay Continued to treat the African Americans poorly. Paid poorly wages just cared about having a name and the money. Social reform movement. Farmers were politically active. Social Growth of industries caused a gap between rich and poor in this region. Political views clashed. Labor union formed first here. Still had race issues. Segregation and discrimination continued. The Chinese immigrants and the white settlers had cultural differences that led to friction. Riots and discrimination laws. Gap between rich and poor. A lot of friction. Active labor unions Economic or Type of Economy Center of the industrialization during the first and second industrial revolution. Producing more than 85% of the United States industrial products. Very low on industrial output. Had textile mills and ironwork industries. Agriculture included timber, coal, iron and steel. Little industrial development. Natural Resources was their main thing such as limber and metals. Agriculture as well. Farming and manufacturing. Steel and automotive. Upper states we center of industry, a hub for shipping and transportation. Population Change  Many immigrants began to come. 1 out of 5 industrial workers was an immigrant. Very high population. African Americans leaving to new factories in the North and Midwest for a better chance at good wages and improve their  economic and social standings. Immigrants from China came to the West looking for jobs on expanding the railroads. Sparse Population. Cities grew rapidly. Large numbers of immigrants. Transportation 200,000 miles of railroads connected cities by the 1900. The necessity of coal led to mining. Great transportation systems. New railroads stretched as far as Florida. Major railroads connected the West to the East.  Railroads and Trains contained livestock and grain. Part 2 – Respond to the prompt in a well- developed paragraph of your own. Be sure to include social, political and economic factors in your response and fully address all parts of the prompt. Explain how the Second Industrial Revolution affected the North, South, West, and Midwest. Which region would you have preferred to live in during this period? Why? The Second Industrial Revolution affected the North, South, West and Midwest mostly by population, economy, and social changes. Many immigrants came to these regions searching for a better life or founding out information on new technology because of this, it led to a lot of social friction between the immigrants and the settlers of the region. Political views clashed, segregation, riots and discrimination laws were happening while immigrants were coming in. These regions had to work with what they had and what they can use, this created the different types of economy such as industrial, manufacturing, farming, agriculture, etc. I would’ve preferred to live in the northern region because it was more developed in industries and technology.

Study of Genotype X Environment Intraction in Asiatic Cotton Gossypium

Cotton is known as â€Å"White Gold†. Gossypium arboreum belongs to family Malvaecae with diploid set of genome have 13 chromosome number. Genotype Ãâ€" environment (GE) interactions have major role in development of improved cultivars. A cultivar is said to be commercially successful, if it performs well across the range of environments in which it grows. The differential response of a genotype or cultivar for a given trait across environments is defined as the genotype Ãâ€" environment interaction (G Ãâ€" E). Bilbro and Ray (1976) indicated that a successful breeding program should focus efforts on genotype yield level (average yield compared to standards), adaptation (what environment does the genotype best perform in), and stability (how consistent does the genotype yield compared to others). Genotype refers to the set of genes possessed by individual that is important for the expression of traits under investigation. The environment is defined as all non-genetic factor s that influence the expression of the trait and influence the growth and development of individuals. G Ãâ€" E interaction is a differential genotypic expression across environments (Basford and Cooper, 1998). According to Romagosa and Fox (1993), G x E interaction reduces association between phenotypic and genotypic values of a genotype. This may cause promising selections from one environment to perform poorly in one and better in another environment, forcing plant breeders to examine genotypic adaptation (Sharma et al., 1987). Varieties are tested in many environments due to changing their performance and adaptation ability. However, important G Ãâ€" E interactions decreases relationship between phenotype and genotype and also genetics improvements in breeding programmes (Comst... ... (1963) Genotype x environment interactions statistical genetics and plant breeding. Eds. Hanson, W. D. and Robinson H. F. National Academy of Science, National Research Council Publication, 982 : 164-196. Eberhart, S A and Russell R A (1966) Stability parameters for comparing varieties. Crop Science, 6 : 36-40. Lukonge E P (2005) Characterisation and diallel analysis of commercially planted cotton (Gossypium hirsutum l.) germplasm in Tanzania. Phd Thesis, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa Myers G O (2004) Estimation of potential breeding value and genotype stability of cotton strains and varieties. http://www.cottoninc.com. Romagosa I and Fox, P N (1993) Genotype x environmental interaction and adaptation. In: M.D Hayward, N.O. Bosemark and I. Romagosa (Eds.), Plant breeding: Principles and Prospects pp 373-390. Chapman and Hall, London.

Filipinization Essay Essay

Explain the impact brought about by the rise of Ilustrados and the Filipino Clergy in the Philippine Nationalist Movement and their influence to Rizal. The most prominent Ilustrados were Graciano Là ³pez Jaena, Marcelo H. del Pilar, Mariano Ponce, Antonio Luna and Josà © Rizal, the Philippine national hero. Rizal’s novels Noli Me Tangere (â€Å"Touch Me Not†) and El filibusterismo (â€Å"The Subversive†) â€Å"exposed to the world the injustices imposed on Filipinos under the Spanish colonial regime†. In the beginning, Rizal and his fellow Ilustrados preferred not to win independence from Spain, instead they yearned legal equality for bothPeninsulares and natives—Indios, Insulares, and mestizos, among others—in the colony. Among the political, religious and economic reforms demanded by the Ilustrados were that â€Å"the Philippines be represented in the Cortes and be considered as a province of Spain† and â€Å"the secularization of the parishes.† However, in 1872, nationalist sentiment grew strongest, when three Filipino priests, â€Å"charged with leading a military mutiny at an arsenal inCavite, near Manila†, were executed by the Spanish authorities. The event and â€Å"other repressive acts outraged the Ilustrados. Because of his anti-clerical writings and activities, Rizal was executed on December 30, 1896. His execution propelled the Ilustrados . This also prompted unity among the Ilustrados and Andrà ©s Bonifacio’s radical Katipunan. Philippine policies by the United States reinforced the dominant position of the Ilustrados within Filipino society. Friar estates were sold to the Ilustrados and most government positions were offered to them. The Cavite Mutiny of 1872 was an uprising of military personnel of Fort San Felipe, the Spanish arsenal in Cavite, Philippines on January 20, 1872. Around 200 soldiers and laborers rose up in the belief that it would elevate to a national uprising. The mutiny was unsuccessful, and government soldiers executed many of the participants and began to crack down on a burgeoning nationalist movement. Many scholars believe that the Cavite Mutiny of 1872 was the beginning of Filipino nationalism that would eventually lead to the  Philippine Revolution of 1896. The primary cause of the mutiny is believed to be an order from Governor-General Rafael de Izquierdo to subject the soldiers of the Engineering and Artillery Corps to personal taxes, from which they were previously exempt. The taxes required them to pay a monetary sum as well as to perform forced labor called, â€Å"polo y servicio.† The mutiny was sparked on January 20, when the laborers received their pay and realized the taxes as well as the falla, the fine one paid to be exempt from forced labor, had been deducted from their salaries. Secularization is a process by which the society is slowly transforming from that having close identification with the religious institution to a more separated relationship. This was considered to be the dawn of Philippine Nationalism, particularly after the execution of Gomburza. The Gomburza headed the secularization movement. They advocated the right of the Filipino secular clergy over the assignment of parishes rather than giving them to the newly arrived Spanish friars in the country. The seculars were those who were not bound by monastic vows or rules. They were discriminated by the Dominicans, Jesuits, Franciscans and Recollects. The Filipino priests then were assigned as assistants to Spanish friars. Secularism began in 1861 when the parishes of Mindanao originally managed by the Recollect friars were handed to the Jesuits. The Jesuits were expelled from the Philippines in 1768 because of the conflict they had between the European leaders. However, they returned to the country in 1861 and regain power over the Mindanao parishes from the Recollects who took over during their absence. The Recollects were bestowed the parishes of Manila and Cavite by the colonial government to appeased their loss. The original administrators of the parishes, the Filipino secular priests, naturally protested. Sources: http://en.wikipilipinas.org/index.php?title=Secularization http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ilustrado http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1872_Cavite_mutiny http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Filipino_nationalism http://www.megaessays.com/viewpaper/28063.html http://en.wikipilipinas.org/index.php?title=History_of_the_Philippines_(1521-1898)

My Immigration Research Paper Essay

In this paper I will use the ethical theories of utilitarianism and deontology, as well as the perspective of ethical egoism, as they pertain to the issue of immigration. Living in a state bordering Mexico [New Mexico], this is indeed becoming a pressing issue as tens of thousands of illegal immigrants flood my state and neighboring states. This issue brings up many questions such as: 1 – What is our moral obligation to these immigrants? 2- What is our moral obligation to U.S. citizens that are affected by this influx? 3- Is it morally right for smugglers to profit from the pain of those seeking safety, security, and a better life? 4- Is it morally/ethically right for parents to subject their children to the long, lonely, dangerous journey to the United States. By applying the theories and perspective noted above, I will show that if this issue is not handled immediately, the consequences will be detrimental to both U.S. citizens and the immigrants as well. The desire of the immigrants to obtain a better life does not preclude them from following current laws and processes. While they act from a position of self -interest, their actions impact many others in the process. From October 2012 through September 2013, the Border Patrol has apprehended about 24,000 unaccompanied children at the border. Between October 2013 and the end of June 2014, the number rose to 57,000. It is estimated this number could reach 90,000 by the end of September 2014. Most are coming from El Salvador, Honduras, and Guatemala. Once the immigrants arrive in the United States, what is our moral obligation to them? Under current law, these children are placed under the custody of the Department of Health and Human Services which works to place them with family members in the U.S. while awaiting a court date. The influx has created the largest backlog in immigration courts. â€Å"In the first half of the year there were 366,724 pending cases. As of March the average wait time for  a case was 578 days, according to the Justice Department records.† Experience has shown many immigrants never show up to these hearings.† Deontology claims an act is to be evaluated in terms of its accordance with a set of rules. Consequently, it is clear that these immigrants have broken the immigration laws of the U.S. both in the way they entered the country and in their refusal to attend court hearings. Their flight to this country clearly is done for the person’s self- interest. They hope to flee the dangers and poverty of their home countries to seek a better life in the United States. However, does the actions of the immigrant outweigh the effect of this influx on the population of the United States? Once here, national, state, local and charitable organizations are being used to house, feed, provide medical care, and other assistance to these immigrants. Meanwhile, United States veterans, homeless, mentally ill, and the elderly go without needed services. Should our own citizens not be our main focus? In my state of New Mexico, one of the poorest in the nation, we are currently housing and processing hundreds, if not thousands of these immigrants. My town of Las Cruces has opened its churches to house and care for the immigrants, even though many of the children here do not have enough to eat or a proper living environment themselves. Once the immigrants arrive at our local shelter, they are given a cot, clean clothes, a shower, hot meals and health checks. After eating, they file into rooms to collect hygiene supplies, diapers, clothes, and suitcases. Children can choose one toy from a large box of donated stuffed animals. Down the hall, volunteers assist the immigrants to call their families across the country and book train, bus, and plane tickets, depending on how much the families can spare. With the system the church shelter has developed, most immigrants will be on their way to relatives within 2 days. President Obama is seeking billions of dollars to increase the number of facilities for these immigrants, to tighten border security, and expand the number of U.S. immigration judges. Should huge amounts of U.S. money be expended to deal with illegal activity or more properly used to alleviate problems of legal U.S. citizens? Governor Rick Perry of Texas has ordered the National Guard to help protect the border because of Congress’s inability to act on this issue. Again, this is taking resources that might be needed elsewhere. While most Americans understand and empathize with the reasons for this influx,  the cost to the American public is substantial. One of the less publicized sides of this immigration issue is the smuggler’s profiting from the distress/fear of others. The smugglers are referred to as ‘coyote’ smugglers. One smuggler described â€Å"shipments of thousands of dollars in human cargo from slums of Honduras and highlands of Guatemala to cities across the United States. It is business; sometimes business is very good.† The vast majority of immigrants who enter the U.S. illegally do so with the help of a network of smugglers. It is a high risk, high yield business estimated to generate $6.6 billion a year. The immigrants pay $4,000 to $10,000 each for this illegal journey. The smugglers in turn pay off government officials, gangs operating on trains, and drug cartels. The experts estimate a profit of $3,500- $4,000 per person if the journey goes as planned. The smugglers are profiting from the rising violence in gang-ridden cities of Central America. Many of the immigrants travel to the U.S. because they believe they will be allowed to stay. The U.S. generally releases children to parents, relatives, or family friends. Their cases take years to go through the immigration courts. This gives rise to rumors of a new law or amnesty for children. The coyote smugglers spread those rumors to drum up business. In a July 23, 2014 issue of the Las Cruces Sun-News it was reported that the Homeland Security Department arrested 192 people along the Mexico border in South Texas on immigration smuggling charges and seized more than $625,000. A crackdown called â€Å"Operation Coyote† took place over the last month, part of the 90 day effort to target smuggling groups. The White House stated that smugglers are exploiting U.S. policies and the crackdown was a message to the smugglers that â€Å"our borders are not open to illegal immigration.† Analyzing this issue from the perspective of ethical egoism, the immigrants and the smugglers are both looking out for themselves, one to seek freedom and a better life, the other to procure as much money as possible. From a deontology perspective, clearly both the immigrants and smugglers are not following the law. The immigrants are entering the U.S. illegally while the smugglers are giving payoffs to drug cartels, gangs, and government leaders. Finally from a utilitarian standpoint the course of action of both the illegal immigrants and the smugglers certainly does not maximize the greatest good for the greatest amount of people. The illegal immigrants may benefit in the short run, but  if eventually returned to their countries may indeed be subject to even greater hardship. The corruption supported/used by the smugglers does nothing to create a better life for the majority of people. And once again the financial and emotional effect on the U.S. is wide spread. Another question/ concern raised by this influx of mostly unaccompanied children is related to their safety, both in their home countries and related to their long journey to the United States. Homicide, extortion, rape, and gang recruitment have risen to epidemic levels in Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador. â€Å"Immigrants’ rights advocates in the U.S. say they are seeing more children from Central America who are not only fleeing gang recruitment and random violence, but who have been targeted themselves.† This violence is seen as the key reason for driving immigrants north. But let’s look at the very imminent danger of death these immigrants face by not only placing themselves in the hands of smugglers [whose only concern is money] and the desert journey they face. The smugglers receive money from the immigrants and their families [both in their home country and in the U.S.] This in turn places more of a financial burden on these families, while a successful outcome is not assured. Along the journey, these immigrants are still subjected to the threats of gangs, drug cartels, and corrupt government officials. They are subjected to the extreme heat of the desert with little food or water and often just the clothes on their backs. Recent news reports put a face to this crisis when Texas authorities identified a decomposed body found recently near the border with Mexico as that of an 11 year old Guatemalan boy, Gilberto Francisco Ramos Juarez. He was identified by calling a phone number etched into his belt buckle and by family members describing the clothes he was wearing when he left home. A recent interview of a rancher in Brownsville Texas reported him also finding a body on his ranch. He reports having to keep a constant vigil all day and night as illegal immigrants enter his land, approach his house and car, and seek aid. Hector Espinal, the Honduras spokesman for UNICEF, stated â€Å"The message is that governments should do what they need to do to stop the violent conditions that are making these children leave.† How to stop violence in Honduras is a subject of much debate. Two major gangs- The Mara Salvatrucha and Barrio 18, have grown into transnational criminal organizations. Drug cartels use Honduras as a point to move cocaine into the United States.  First Lady Garcia of Honduras says her country needs its own U.S. funded anticrime program similar to Plan Colombia or Mexico’s Merida Initiative to fight the gangs and cartels. Vice President Joe Biden recently visited Guatemala. To coincide with that trip, President Obama has pledged $93 million in new programs to reduce violence in Central America. This includes $40 million to reduce gang membership in Guatemala, $25 million to build 77 youth outreach centers in El Salvador and $18.5 million to build 77 outreach centers in Honduras. The White House is currently requesting approximately $3.7 billion in emergency funding with $300 million for international programs to aid Central America. However, the House Republicans recently passed legislation to address the crisis. The new $694 million version would send migrant youths back home without hearings, and contained a companion bill that could lead to deporting more than a half a million immigrants to whom the Obama administration granted temporary work permits. This companion bill could prevent more than 700,000 people who’ve already gotten work permits, from renewing them. Lawmakers objected to sending any more money to President Obama without a strong stance against the two-year-old deportation relief program that they blame for causing the current border crisis by creating the perception that once here, young migrants would be allowed to stay. The new GOP border bill adds $35 million more for the National Guard, reimbursing states for guard deployment. It would increase spending for overwhelmed border agencies, add more immigration judges and detention centers, and alter a 2008 anti-trafficking law. We can apply the theories of utilitarianism and deontology and the perspective of ethical egoism to the above question much in the same way as we did before. Once again the immigrants, but also the smugglers, are acting in their own self-interest. One wants freedom, the other seeks money. Both the illegal immigrants and the smugglers are breaking the law, both in their home countries as well as the United States. By focusing on their own interests, the illegal immigrants forget the bigger picture. Would it not benefit the greater number of people to focus on the root problems in Central America? No one doubts the dangerous conditions in these countries. However, other dangerous conditions face the immigrants on the journey to the United States. Is one danger greater than the other? If these immigrants indeed make it to the United States, most will be returned to their home countries  to be placed in the same conditions, disillusioned from the loss of their hopes and dreams. Only by a concerted effort to improve conditions in their home countries, can the greatest benefit result for the greatest number of people. The issue of immigration is perhaps one of the hottest issues facing our country today. As tens of thousands of illegal immigrants make their way into the U nited States, many moral and ethical issues arise. Do the individual rights of the immigrant to seek a better life, outweigh the negative effect their actions place on their own families as well as the citizens of the United States? Do the immigrants have a right to break laws, both in their home countries, as well as the United States, in order to obtain their dream? Is it the ethical/moral responsibility of the United States to care for the illegal immigrants once they arrive? And lastly, is it morally /ethically correct to send children from one dangerous situation into another one, rather than trying to fix the core issues precipitating their illegal journey to the United States? By applying the theories of utilitarianism and deontology, as well as the perspective of ethical egoism, I have attempted to answer these questions. Utilitarianism stresses the greatest good for the greatest amount of people. In the case of illegal immigration that would seem to be that more effort should be aimed at correcting the core issues in Central America. Deontology stresses evaluating an issue in terms of its accordance with a specified set of rules. Obviously, in the case of illegal immigration, the laws are not being followed. And lastly, ethical egoism argues that acts should be done out of a person’s own self –interest. Clearly, this is what drives the immigrants. But the impact in the long run, both to the immigrants, their families, and the citizens of the United States, may be too big a price to pay. References 1 Exporting Mayhem across the Border. [2014]. Bloomberg Businessweek, [4379], 10. [Permalink]:http://search.ebscohost.com.prox-library.ashford.edu/login.aspx?direct=true&db=bsh&AN=96077008&site=eds-live 2 Grillo, Ioan [2014]. Honduran Children Deported From U.S. Back to World’s ‘Most Violent City. Time.Com, p1-1. 1p. [Permalink]:http://search.ebscohost.com.proxy-library.ashford.edu/login.aspx?direct=true&db=bsh&AN=97074587&site=eds.-live. 3 LaFranchi, H. [2014July]. Border crisis: Kerry asks Central America to help combat ‘false information’. Christian Science Monitor. P.1. [Permalink]: http:// search.ebscohost.com.proxy-library.ashford.edu/login.aspx?direct=true&db=crh&AN=96897036&site=eds-live 4 Preston, Julia. The New York Times. U.S. looks to tide illegal border crossings-Biden goes to Central America to discourage illegal immigration- deportations of central americans will be accelerated. Accelerated by the Lexington- Herald [Ky.] [June 2014]. [Permalink]: http:// search.ebscohost.com.proxy-library.ashford.edu/login.aspx?direct=true&db=edsnbk&An=14E97D7C018E48F0&site=eds-live 5 Schearer, M. [2014]. Obama in Political Bind over Unaccompanied Immigrant Minors. Time. Com, 1.[Permalink]: http:// search.ebscohost.com.proxy-library.ashford.edu/login.aspx?direct=true&db=bsh&AN=97059415 &site=eds-live 6 Micheal,Shear, W.[2014 July 10]. Obama seeks $4 b for border crisis- United States- Immigration- 150,000 children projected to flee Central America. The Sydney Morning Herald [Australia]. P 17. [Permalink]: http:// search.ebscohost.com.proxy-library.ashford.edu/login.aspx?direct=true&db=edsnb&AN=14EF984EBA4C6788&site=eds-live 7 E. Edurado Castillo and Christopher Sherman of the Associated Press. Migration spotlights Mexican ‘coyote’ smugglers retrieved from The Las Cruces Sun – News [2014 July 22]. 8 Christopher Sherman and Will Weissert of the Associated Press. Gov. Rick Perry will send National Guard to border. Retrieved from The Las Cruces Sun –News [2014 July 22]. 9 Kuhnman, Jim The Associated Press. How a flood of kids upended immigration debate. Retrieved from The Las Cruces Sun –News [2014 July 21]. 10 Anderson, Lindsey The Las Cruces Sun News. Cots, Clothes and Compassion [2014 July21]. 11 The Associated Press. Gov’t arrests 192 for smuggling. Retrieved from The Las Cruces Sun –News [2014 July 23]. 12 Werner, Erica The Associated Press. Hose Oks border crisis bill. Retrieved from The Las Cruces Sun-News [2014 August 2].

Bush vs. Kerry essays

Bush vs. Kerry essays Bush is parading around in the southwest saying that things are going really well, while the democratic challenge points out that there are President Bush and senator John Kerry debated recently over a serious issue that could decide the whole election and economy. The president says that there are going to be low interest rates, and strong business growth but Kerry is arguing that in fact this is not true that many jobs will be lost, and poverty will increase. Kerry says that the economy is weak and he plans to cut corporate taxes by 5 percent. He says that this will encourage companies to add jobs overseas. Bush says that rates of homeownership are rising, and its a trend he hopes to continue in his second term and its a trend he hopes to continue in his second term, especially amongst Latino minorities. Kelly although insists that Bush has a record of negative job growth and stagnant income. He is to blame for not fixing long term unemployment. 3 million more Americans have fallen into poverty under Bush's presidency, not to mention that 4 million more have lost health insurance. Bush's focus on homeownership is part of his strategy to build a vision of the nation as an ownership society. Also, social security and other programs might be replaced by stock/bond accounts. and more housing means more jobs for carpenters. Kerry is focused on jobs first to create Kerry is calling for taxing U.S company's overseas profits at the same rate as its profits are earned. Many are surprised at his call for lower corporate tax rates but its to get the job done. Kerry is the better choice over all. We can't let government take away social security and healthcare and other programs. Also, as a nation job opportunities need to increase, then we can worry about homeownership. ...

French Pluperfect or Past Subjunctive Tense

French Pluperfect or Past Subjunctive Tense The French pluperfect subjunctive is the least common literary tense - its the literary equivalent of the past subjunctive.Like all literary tenses, the pluperfect subjunctive is used only in literature, historical writings, and other very formal writing, so it is important to be able to recognize it but chances are that you will never in your life need to conjugate it.The pluperfect subjunctive has an identical twin, the second form of the conditional perfect, which is used in literary si clauses. The French pluperfect subjunctive is a  compound conjugation, which means it has two parts: imperfect subjunctive  of the  auxiliary verb  (either  avoir  or  Ãƒ ªtre)past participle  of the main verb Note:  Like all French compound conjugations, the pluperfect subjunctive may be subject to  grammatical  agreement: When the auxiliary verb is  Ãƒ ªtre, the past participle must agree with the subjectWhen the auxiliary verb is  avoir, the past participle may have to agree with its direct object French Pluperfect Subjunctive Conjugations   AIMER  (auxiliary verb is  avoir) j eusse aim nous eussions aim tu eusses aim vous eussiez aim il,elle et aim ils,elles eussent aim DEVENIR  (à ªtre verb) je fusse devenu(e) nous fussions devenu(e)s tu fusses devenu(e) vous fussiez devenu(e)(s) il ft devenu ils fussent devenus elle ft devenue elles fussent devenues SE LAVER  (pronominal verb) je me fusse lav(e) nous nous fussions lav(e)s tu te fusses lav(e) vous vous fussiez lav(e)(s) il se ft lav ils se fussent lavs elle se ft lave elles se fussent laves

Astro All Asia Networks ( DBA CONSULTANCY ) Assignment

Astro All Asia Networks ( DBA CONSULTANCY ) - Assignment Example Astro also runs production of films and its business ranges from commissioning and distribution of films. Its subsidiary Celestial Pictures own the largest film library in China. At present, Astro All Asia Networks is looking to expand its business in entertainment and media markets of the growing markets in Asia where there are ample scope of market penetration. Astro have invested in a joint venture of DTH services in India where the company envisages opportunity for growth. Apart from the opportunities, the threat to the company and concerns over its current positions are also important to study. Rationale of Study The rationale of the study is to examine the strategies of the Astro All Asia Networks in promoting its prospects of short term and long term growth. The current position of the company and the strategic methods of alliance for entering the foreign markets could be discovered with the help of this study. The study also provides an insight on the political, environmental , social, technological, economic and legal risk to which the company is exposed in its current business position. The strength, weakness, opportunities and threats to Astro could be analyzed with the help of this study. Significance of Study The significance of the study on Astro All Asia Networks and its current business position is that the performance of the company and its current position could be used to get an understanding of the position of media and entertainment industry. The threat of substitute products and services of the Astro could be analyzed with the help of this study. The emerging trends in the media and entertainment industry of Astro would provide information on the competitive market scenario. The current situation of Astro’s business could be analyzed to find the potential threats of the new market in the under-penetrated markets of Asia. Apart from this information on the bargaining power of the suppliers and the customers could also be obtained. Obj ectives of Study The objective of this study is to provide an insight to the managers of the concerns of the company, the emerging risks and threats to the business of the company. The study is aimed at investigating the threats of Astro’s business like the probabilities of convergence its businesses of digital media and entertainment with the business of computers, laptops and note books. The threats of World Wide Web to the business of Astro are also examined. The threats of mobile networks on the business of Astro are also examined with the help of this study. The study is also aimed at exploring possible weakness in terms of political, social and environmental exposure in the foreign markets for expansion activity. The technological, economic and legal challenges for Astro in its current situation are also investigated with the help of this study. Scope and Limitation of Study The scope of this study is that it provides an insight on the opportunities of expansion of Astr o All Asia Networks in Malaysia as well as in the under-penetrated markets of Asia. The possibilities for stabilization of acquisition cost of subscriber through its quality of services helps to judge the prospects of profitability of the company. T

The movie style of David Fincher Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

The movie style of David Fincher - Essay Example Quotations from the film have been cited independently in the bibliography. Fincher’s choice and portrayal of protagonists merit some attention. Frequently, his lead characters are men in a stressful or otherwise unfulfilling job, at odds with the world they inhabit, and with complex and unstable psychologies. Detective William Somerset in Seven is on the verge of retiring from a long career in the police. He repeatedly speaks about the oppressive nature of the city he lives in and how he would like to travel ‘far [a]way from here’. In Fight Club, the unnamed protagonist suffers from insomnia and has to join a slew of support groups to feel like a victim and find his emotional release. He is later revealed to be suffering from Split Personality Disorder as well. In Zodiac, the cartoonist-detective becomes obsessed with trying to solve the Zodiac’s codes and can think of nothing else, leading his second wife to leave him. The Game features millionaire Nicholas Van Orton, who, in his brother’s words, was ‘becoming such an asshole’ that he needed an extraordinarily complex and dangerous prank played on him for him to be able to feel again. The Social Network also fictionalises its real-life lead Mark Zuckerberg as someone not really ‘likeable’. Film critic James Lewis Hoberman, in his review of The Social Network, describes the character as ‘a sort of mildly autistic Sammy Glick with a grim 1,000-yard glare’. In the movie itself, the final lines are also directed at Zuckerberg’s character: ‘Youre not an asshole, Mark. Youre just trying so hard to be one’. The social and psychological alienation of his protagonists then, are a recurrent feature in Fincher’s films. Another thematic concern that pervades Fincher’s oeuvre is contemporary society as a locus of apathy and emotional numbness. In Seven, Somerset repeatedly expresses his dissatisfaction with the society he inhabits

Electoral college Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Electoral college - Coursework Example The government of the United States is comprised of three branches. The separation of power is provided by the constitution. The three branches are executive, judiciary and the legislature (Campbell, 2004). The executive is comprised on the President, Vice President and the Departments. The body makes up the most superior governmental position. In addition, the branch implements the laws created and stated in the constitution. The legislature is comprised of the House and the Senate. The two bodies are less superior to the executive. However, there are responsible for the creation of laws. Additionally, the two bodies act as supervisors to the functions of the executive (Campbell, 2004). They analyze the effectiveness at which the executive implements the provision of the constitution. The judiciary contains the court system and the Supreme Court. The branch is provided with the responsibility of interpreting the provision of the constitution. The branch also oversees the function of the executive and the legislature as provided by the constitution. The separation of power allows for the effective operation and completion of duties by the three branches. In addition, the separation of power allows for the measurement of the effectiveness of the three branches. Regardless of separation of power, there is the need to create a mechanism that would enable the control and restriction of excessive dominance by one body. Specifically, the dominance of one branch of government should not be allowed. In most cases, the executive may implement policies that depict dictatorship. To avoid such occurrences, the constitution provides for checks and balances (Kilman & Costello, 2000). The provisions are aimed at increasing the ability of each body of the government to effectively carry out its functions. In addition, checks and balances minimize the occurrence of one body having greater power and

Analysis Of Britannia Industries Limited Marketing Essay

Analysis Of Britannia Industries Limited Marketing Essay An Analysis On The External Factors Affecting The Company And The Role And Importance Of Stakeholders Britannia Industries Limited (BIL), formerly known as Britannia, was established in the year 1892. Britannias business was flourishing. In 1910, Britannia mechanized its operations, and in 1921, it became the first company east of the Suez Canal to use gas ovens. In 1979 it was renamed to Britannia Industries Limited, with an Indian shareholding of more than 60%. After few years, in 1997, Britannia made its debut in the dairy products market. Britannia is not only known for the quality of its products but also for the innovative approach towards them and the marketing. In 2002, Britannias New Business Division formed a joint venture with Fonterra, the worlds second largest Dairy Company, and Britannia New Zealand Foods Pvt. Ltd. was born. Britannia was rated One amongst the Top 200 Small Companies in the World (200 Companies for 2002 (2002) Forbes.com) and was awarded The Economic Times as The Second Most Indias Trusted Brands (Dettol is most trusted brand (2002) The Times of India ). Britannias market is not only limited to India but also extends to few countries in Middle East, Seychelles, Singapore, Ghana and USA. Today, the company is operations extend from manufacturing bakery products like biscuits and breads to the production of dairy products like cheese and butter. Aim of the Report To analyse the macro and micro external environment with the help of tools like PESTEL and Porters Five Forces respectively. To role of stakeholders and the importance of stakeholders in influencing the strategies with reference to Corporate Social Responsibilities. Macro External Environment Analysis Macro external environment here includes the factors such as issues related to politics, economical reforms and achievements, social behaviour, technological enhancements and inventions, environmental changes and environmental concerns and legislation and legislative changes. All these factors bear a significant effect on any industry and business. A business has take into consideration all such effects and then formulate its strategies and policies to work along with them and prosper. PESTEL analysis tool helps in determining the effect of all such factors on an industry and businesses. With the help of PESTEL analysis we will be seeing the affects of such factors on Indian Bakery and Dairy Industry. PESTEL analysis is a technique for identifying and listing the political, economic, social, technological, environmental and legal factors in the general environment most relevant to an organisation. (Boddy, D (2005). Management An Intoduction. 3rd ed. UK: Pearson Education. 88.) Type of Factors Effecting Factors Political Economical Social Technological Environmental Exemption on Customs on Sugar Raw Material Import Shortage of Milk Need for Healthy Eating Habits Cloning of Livestock Change in the Climatic Conditions VAT on Biscuits Rise in Sugar Production and Duty Free Sugar Imports Problems with Cloned Livestock New Age Packaging Removal of Import Duty on Dairy Products Globalization Incentives to Build Cold Storage Facilities Requirement for Logistics Political Exemption on Customs Duty on Sugar Raw Material Import Due to the shortage in the production of sugar the deadline for the exemption on customs duty on raw sugar imports has been extended by the government to April 1, 2011 (Dey, A Jha, Dilip K (2010) Duty-free sugar imports extended till April 2011, Business Standard). Since sugar is a major input in the bakery, the price of sugar highly influences the price of inputs of the bakery industry. Exemption on customs duty will help in purchasing sugar at lower cost, which in turn will control the cost of production. VAT on Biscuits The VAT of 12.5% on Biscuits, being the only processed food item to attract such high VAT rates, will affect the pricing of the product (Bhushan, R (2009) Biscuit prices to rise by 10%, The Economic Times). Price of the biscuits might need to be increased due to the high VAT rates which may result in switch of brands due to the highly competitive market. Removal of Import Duty on Dairy Products The whole-sale price based inflation indicates that the milk prices have moved up by 14.73% over the last year. Worried about the rising prices government announced the removal of duty on Skimmed Milk Powder (SMP) and other dairy products (Govt removes import duty on dairy products (2010), Business Standard). The imports at cheaper rate would help in reduce the cost factor for dairy products. Incentives to Build Cold Storage Facilities Wastage of food items due to lack of cold storage facilities lead to a loss of Rs. 500 billion every year. The government announces schemes and incentives to attract investments in cold storage warehousing (Union Budget 2010: Cold-storage incentives to attract fresh funds (2010), The Economic Times). Increase in the number of cold storage facilities would help in preserving products better and reduce the wastage cost. Economical Shortage of Milk Even though the milk production has risen by 4.6% compound annual average growth rate, it still cannot match up with the increasing demand. The demand for milk has been growing at a faster rate than the growth rate of milk production resulting in the shortage of milk supply (Milk output would stagnate (2010) The Economic Times).   India cannot meet its expected demand if the demand and supply rise at the same rate. For the same the reason, the milk prices are on a constant rise. Price of milk increased by 12.6% to 13.6% (Goyal, K (2010) Indias Food-Price Inflation Holds Near 11-Year High- Business Week). This can cause an increase in the input cost for the dairy products and which in turn can lead to hike in price or lower profit margins. If the company increases the price of its products, it may affect the sales as it might lose on consumers. Rise in Sugar Production and Duty Free Sugar Imports The total sugar production in the first six months ending September 2010 is expected to be 22% more than the output in the unchanged phase last season, the total production expected is at 16.7 million (Press Trust India (PTI) (2010) Sugar output rises 22% in first half of 2009-10, Business Standard). Due to the shortage in the production of sugar the deadline for the exemption on customs duty on raw sugar imports has been extended by the government to April 1, 2011 (Dey, A Jha, Dilip K (2010) Duty-free sugar imports extended till April 2011, Business Standard). The increase in sugar production and the duty exemption on raw sugar can help in purchasing sugar at lower prices and this in turn can help in producing goods at lower prices. Globalization Globalization a universal phenomenon is affecting each and every industry. The world is coming closer, the communication gap is closing and the businesses are going global. This can serve as an opportunity to expand the business to a global level but on the other hand there is a threat of new entrants from international market. Requirements for Logistics Logistics in India suffer due to the poor infrastructure and other limitations. There is a high demand for sophisticated third party logistics so the domestic logistics service providers are trying to improve their service. International participation is also expected in the logistics industry (Pandey, S Basu, A (2010) Logistics cos ramp up supply chain to meet rising demand, The Economic Times). Sophiscticated logistics system will help in proper supply chain management and on time delivery of goods, which help in maintaining the shelf life of goods on meeting the demand on time. Social Need for Healthy Eating Habits Studies say that Indians are more prone to Coronary Artery Disease (CAD), which is the major independent risk factor causing Cardiovascular diseases, due to the smaller calibred arteries found in Indians (Isalkar, U (2009) Indians more prone to heart disease, The Times of India). This suggests that Indians should move towards more healthy food and diet. This could be a new area to explore for Britannia with its new health associated products like Nuti-Choice biscuits and Actimind flavoured milk. Problems with Cloned Livestock Cloned animals are supposed to be suffering from large-offspring syndrome. The mother cows face a problem in giving birth to the cloned animals as they are larger than normal. Also these cloned animals suffer from health issues (Gogoi, P (2007) The case against cloning, BusinessWeek). It is morally wrong to clone animals as they cause problems to the mother during the birth and moreover the cloned livestock suffer from health issues which might make unsafe to consume the produce from them. Technological Cloning of Livestock India, a late entrant in cloning research, is now moving with a great pace in cloning technology. Hand guided cloning technique, a technique very different from the conservative cloning practice has been a successful venture (Mahalakshmi, BV Chowdhary, S (2009) Cloning Glory, The Financial Express). New Age Packaging The new packaging systems help in protecting food from micro-organisms by creating shelter layer. It uses new technologies like oxygen scavenging function, atmosphere control, biodegrability etc. and is low cost (Han, J Packaging Innovations, Bakers Journal). The packaging technology helps in preserving food for longer by protecting them from micro-organisms with the help of new technologies, thus resulting in longer shelf life of the food. The advantage of low cost packing and longer shelf life could be very beneficial for the company in increasing its profit margin. Environmental Change in the Climatic Conditions Climate plays an important role in the agriculture process. The change in the rainfall pattern has been a matter of concern now in India. The agriculture sector in areas which are monsoon dependent suffered badly due to the change in the rainfall pattern. The sector suffered a huge loss in terms of total output (Bhosale, J (2009) Farmers worried over climate disturbances, The Economic Times). The loss in crop will affect the input supply and this might delay or cause problems in the production. So the industry might not be able to meet the demands resulting in the loss of customers. Legal Raising the Norms for the Probiotic Food There is a need for setting the standards for probiotic food. Clinical tests should be conducted on the probiotic foods before they could reach the market for sale. The Indian Council of Medical and Research has submitted the proposal for the same to the government (Das, S (2009) Probiotic food likely to come under clinical trial ambit, The Financial Express).  Strict norms will help in raising the quality standards but on the other hand the cost and time of production might subsequently increase. Micro External Environment Analysis Factors that influence the micro external environment are Competitor Rivalry, Threat of New Entrants, Threat of Substitutes, Buyers Power and Suppliers Power. These factors play a vital role in determining the current situation of the business and to plan strategies accordingly. With the help Porters Five Forces we will be analysing these factors and their immediate effect on the company. Five forces analysis is a technique for identifying and listing those aspects of the five forces most relevant to the profitability of an organisation at that time. (Boddy, D (2005). Management An Intoduction. 3rd ed. UK: Pearson Education. 83.) Competitor Rivalry: BIL has a market share of 38% and has been growing at 27%, compared to the industry growth rate of 20% (Saxena, R (2007) Battle-scarred Britannia on expansion spree, Business Standard) and has many competitors based on the nature of product. Parle and ITC (Sunfeast) pose a great competition to BIL (Biscuit Industry: India (2010), Market Research India). BIL earning major of its income from the biscuits (Britannia Annual Report 2007-08 (2008)), and Parle and ITC are the other major players in biscuit market. BIL is also into the production of dairy products, where the two major players in market are Amul and Nestle. Amul is the leader in the dairy industry. There is also a high level of competition from the unorganised baking sector. Overall rivalry is high. Threat of New Entrants: The entry on a small scale dairy industry and in the unorganised baking sector is easy. But on the other hand to enter the large scale dairy industry and organised baking sector a huge amount of investment is required in terms acquiring assets and to establish supply and distribution chains. Government regulations pertaining to food norms and others may also seem to be unattractive. Looking at the latest trends, the bakery industry is expected to earn huge revenues which might attract new entrants (Vijay, N (2008) Indian Bakery sector foresees high growth and increasing interest in product offering, FnBNews.com). So the threat of new entrants is moderate. Threat of Substitutes: Savoury snacks, crisps, cereals, fruits and other fast food can be substituted for biscuits. Dairy products are dubious to be replacing with other products as they key ingredients of majority of peoples diet. So the threat is a very moderate threat of substitutes. Buyers Power: The buyers of these products could be a retailer or the consumer. Both the dairy and bakery industry are price sensitive, so a little increase in price might lead the consumer to shift other brand or product. So the buyers power is calculated to be very strong. Suppliers Power: The major supplies for a bakery industry include wheat, sugar and other agriculture products. And the major supplies for dairy products are milk. Its difficult to bargain with the suppliers of the above mentioned inputs as the price of these inputs is majorly influenced by the production of these inputs. The prices tend to be high as the demand for these products is rising at much faster rate than supply. The secondary supplies include the packaging material. The secondary supplies can be easily substituted with the low-cost ones to save on cost. Overall the suppliers power is assessed to be moderate. Conclusion of Five Forces Analysis: There is an existence of major players in the market with a moderate level of threat of new entrants and substitutes. The suppliers power is moderate but the buyers power is measured to be strong. So the rivalry is suggested to be high. Stakeholders and Corporate Social Responsibilities (CSR) Freedman (1984) defines a stakeholder as any individual or group who can affect, or is affected by, the achievement of the organisations objectives. Further in addition to that, Clarkson (1995), stated that the government and the other communities that effect the working of the business and the market also form as a part of stakeholders. Stakeholders, except the employees, have a high power over the strategic change ideas (Hayes, J (2007). The Theory and Practice of Change Management. 2nd ed. UK: Palgrave Macmillan. 153). Internal Stakeholders The internal stakeholders are the ones associated with the company internally. For BIL its internal stakeholders would be: The Shareholders The Board of Directors, and The Employees Currently, nearly 51% of shares are held by Corporate Bodies and the rest 49% is held by the public (Statement showing shareholding pattern (2009), Britannia Industries Limited). The board consists of 11 members (Company Overview, Britannia Industries Limited) and employees nearly 2000 people (Britannia Industries Ltd. Overview, MarketLine). External Stakeholders The external stakeholders are the ones who are not immediately associated with company but influence the decision making of the company. To BIL the external stakeholders are as follows: Customers Suppliers Contractors Government Regulatory Agenices (like Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, etc.), and Society Britannia being the leader in the baker industry of India has a huge amount of customers to cater. Britannia has to keep up the tastes and quality preferences of its customers. The government plays an important in influencing the market by creating and changing the policies. BIL has to adhere to the rules and regulations formulated by the regulatory agencies. The suppliers and contractors form an important part of a business. Britannia completely relies on its suppliers and contractors for its raw materials. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) For years corporate entities followed the practice of providing goods and services and maximizing wealth. But the trends have changed over the period of years. The companies are now expected to be more socially responsible. The company now has to be responsible to the stakeholders, society and environment. They are expected to pay back to the environment and society for all the affects that are caused due to its operations (Idowu, S Filho, W (2009) Global Practices of Corporate Social Responsibility. Berlin: Springer. 1-2). BIL believes in working with the society and the culture. It gives a premier importance to the nation and its policies. It believes in being a good corporate citizen by not just adhering to the rules and regulations but also by helping the community to improve the quality of life. BIL involves itself in initiating and providing support to community health and family welfare, water management, vocational training, educating people and encouraging the application of modern techniques and technologies. BIL believes in ethical behaviour (Code of Conduct, Britannia Industries Limited). BIL is taking steps toward conserving the environment by employing new process and upgrading the technology. It is trying to reduce its carbon footprints by recycling the waste heat. It has now filed for carbon reduction benefits (Britannia Annual Report 2007-08 (2008)). BIL has taken steps towards helping the society by joining the nutrition program with Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN) and the Nandi Foundation. Along with these organisations BIL will is providing mid-day meals in schools and provide nutrition to the deprived (Britannia Annual Report 2007-08 (2008)).

Gender and Coming of Age in Shakespeare’s As You Like It Essay

Gender and Coming of Age in Shakespeare’s As You Like It Shakespeare introduces the protagonists of his comedy, As You Like It, as youths mourning the absence of their fathers: Orlando remarks on the consequences of his father’s death and Rosalind first appears despairing over her father’s exile. He closes the play with the marriage of these youths. The absence of their respective fathers centrally figures into their courtship and preparation for marriage. Even more noticeable is the absence of all mothers—not a single mother or older wife appears in the play. The young women, Rosalind and Celia, enter adulthood, seemingly without any female role models. Such responses impact the development of the young protagonists, causing the two friends, Rosalind and Celia, to be remarkably independent of gender conventions and the constraints of older generations. The absence of elder influences allows Rosalind and Celia to shape their adult lives, particularly as they forge their own unique approaches towards marriage and realiz ations of the institution. In the absence of natural fathers, different characters volunteer as surrogate fathers for Orlando, but not for Rosalind. Without soliciting it, Orlando receives help and guidance from Duke Senior and Adam. For example, the ravenous Orlando interrupts Duke Senior’s banquet and orders them to stop eating, demanding food for Adam and himself. Duke Senior asks him why he so rudely demands food and then advises Orlando that â€Å"gentleness shall force / More than your force move us to gentleness† (2.7.101-102).* Warmly inviting the embarrassed Orlando to his table, the Duke offers him his friendship as he takes Orlando aside to speak privately. Orlando receives such unsolicited help from ... ...ns emotional maturity. Orlando finally achieves social adulthood and Rosalind achieves personal maturity. While the Shakespearean era certainly structured gender roles quite differently from our own, many women today find themselves, like Rosalind and Celia, in a forest of men without female role models. Though decrying the lack of female role models has become trendy, it is important to remember that the leadership of the older generation comes with its own constraints. As each generation forges its own identity, perhaps it is the very absence of such role models and the freedom to wear a man’s hat or a beggar’s cloak that allow the most independent expressions of adulthood to emerge. Work Cited *Shakespeare, As You Like It, in The Complete Works of Shakespeare, ed. David Bevington, 4th ed. (New York: Longman, Addison-Wesley Educational Publishers, 1997).

Disney Case Analysis Essay

It is 1984, and Disney is the target of a potential takeover by notorious greenmailer Sual Steinberg. Disney is faced with the option of fighting the takeover through the courts and media, or to repurchase Steinberg’s shares, in effect, giving in to his greenmail attempt. However, there are many other important issues which are facing Disney. These range from Disney’s abysmal return on investment in recent theme park investments, to the complete failure of Disney’s motion picture division, to Disney’s alarmingly high dividend payout rate. In the following four sections, we will address these four issues Disney faces and recommend solutions to improve the financial health of Disney. Theme Parks Issue Recently, Disney has been following a bad investment policy. Disney invested a total of $1. 9 Billion in Epcot over a 6 year period and has increased its capital expenditures on theme parks by a total of $1. 277 Billion from 1981 to 1983. Despite these massive investments in its theme parks, Disney has only earned a return of 4% on Epcot and an overall return on Theme Park assets of 6% in 1983. Disney needs to find a way to more efficiently invest its capital and produce greater returns on its investments. Analysis In order to understand why Disney’s Theme Park investments have been so unsuccessful, we must analyze a number of different contributing factors. Why Disney is investing in Theme Parks? In order to understand why Disney is investing in Theme Parks, we need to take a look at the financial results of Disney’s different segments. Out of Disney’s 3 segments, Entertainment and Recreation (or theme parks) is Disney’s only segment which is nicely growing its profits in addition to attaining a healthy profit margin. Motion pictures is currently suffering, and actually losing money. Whereas, Consumer Products is producing profits and holding the greatest profit margin, however profits are not growing significantly. After looking at this analysis and nothing else, it appears as though Entertainment and Recreation is Disney’s most profitable segment and the one which they should be investing in. This is exactly what Disney is doing. Why are additional Theme Parks are the Wrong Investment? Before the expansion on new theme parks, Disney’s older theme parks had enjoyed much success. As recently as 1978, Disney’s Entertainment and Recreation segment had experienced a return on assets of 15. 7%. However, as Disney introduced new theme parks, they reached a point where the optimal supply of theme parks had surpassed the demand. This â€Å"oversupply† of theme parks can be seen by taking a look at the United States Demographic data provided in the case. First, it must be understood that Theme Park attendance, and in turn revenues, are driven by the younger demographic. According to the information above, the population group that drives Theme Park revenues (0 to 14 years old) is actually shrinking from 1970 to 1995. This represents a decrease in demand for Disney’s Theme Parks. Yet, at the same time, Disney is investing in and opening new theme parks. Essentially, Disney is increasing the supply despite a decrease in demand. This is counter intuitive by any economic standard. To further back the claims that Disney’s increased investment in theme parks is a bad move; let’s quickly analyze some measures of financial performance for their theme park segment. Clearly, the Entertainment and Recreation segment has experienced an abysmal return on assets recently. These numbers are even more disappointing when considering the Entertainment and Recreation segment produced an ROA 15. 7% as recently as 1978. Disney has made the wrong move in investing heavily in additional theme parks despite the population decrease in its main customer segment. In order to improve Disney’s position, it must make some changes. Suggested Changes Overseas Theme Parks The demand for additional theme parks does not exist in the United States, as can be seen from looking at the demographic data above. Therefore, there is no reason for Disney to continue expanding and investing in additional United States theme parks. Disney needs to immediately stop United States theme park expansion. However, this does not mean that Disney must stop investing in theme parks altogether. Disney should look to other countries where there is a demand for theme parks. By looking for countries where the demographics are in their favor and there is sufficient demand without oversupply, Disney can begin to earn sufficient returns on their theme park investments. Management Change Disney’s management should have foreseen the downside of overexpansion. It’s even possible that management did realize the lack of demand, however they may have wanted to extract us much demand as possible by building more theme parks. Either way, the decision to invest so heavily in theme parks despite their main market segment shrinking for the foreseeable future is incomprehensible. Earning a ROA of 6% in 1983 on theme parks assets when a 1983 T-Bill earns 8. 86% shows an abysmal utilization of assets. Management responsible for the decision to invest so heavily in theme parks needs to be fired from the company. Implementation How to Expand Overseas First, Disney needs to conduct market research in numerous modernized foreign countries. The focus of this research needs to be on the demand levels for a theme park, and whether the demand outweighs the current supply of theme parks in each country. Once Disney chooses the country with the most favorable supply and demand situation, it can begin analysis to determine whether or not they should actually construct a theme park in that country. They will estimate costs and future cash flows in order to conduct a NPV analysis in order to determine whether or not Disney should actually construct a theme park in that country. How to Implement Management Change Ask around management, and conduct interviews with high level managers in order to determine who was responsible for the decision to invest more heavily in theme parks. Once you have identified the main individual or individuals responsible for the decision, you let them know that they are being let go for their ineptitude. Then, search for top management at other similar companies (or any promising prospects within Disney) to fill the open positions. Motion Pictures Issue The motion pictures business has been historically one of Disney’s strongest segments since the company was founded. Over the years, classic films like Snow White and Cinderella have provided valuable revenue streams for the company. Films have accounted for a significant amount of Disney’s earnings and had a large impact on the performance of the company. However, in recent years the motion picture segment’s performance has been lackluster and recording an operating loss of $33. 3M in 1983. The recent failures in the motion picture segment had a profound ripple effect on Disney’s financial performance. Just two years ago the same division boasted a 17. 59% profit margin and operating income of $34. M. Analysis The recent missteps can be attributed to a failed TV channel startup, lack of a blockbuster movie hit, and the cancelation of a new Disney TV show on CBS. Although the film industry in general was suffering in 1983, the performance of Disney’s motion pictures division was abysmal. Suggested Changes New Management Performance in this division has steadily declined over the past three years. New talent needs to be brought in to help revitalize this division. Disney has been a household name since the advent of cinema and should not be lagging behind their rivals. Management needs to be held accountable for these failures. Increased Investment in Film Disney has arguably been one of the most successful film companies in the world since it was started in 1923. Creating, distributing, and selling films have been a core competency of Disney for many years. Disney needs to invest more money into creating innovative films and future blockbusters. For the past several years, there has been a disparate amount of funds invested into their park business compared to the motion picture segment. Disney needs to focus on their core competency of film and invest into motion pictures. Historically, this business has proved to be lucrative and these additional resources will help finance future blockbuster movies. Implementation How to Acquire New Management Currently, many of the Disney executives worked under Walt Disney, himself, and often won’t accept projects due to the reasoning that â€Å"Walt wouldn’t do that†. It is hard for creative talent to come up with great ideas and have them put down without any reasoning, other than a dead man wouldn’t have approved their ideas or projects. The current executive’s ties are too strong to the late Walt Disney and at least some of them need to be replaced with fresh blood. Fire the executives who are the most repeat offenders of the above mentioned offense. In order to replace them, we suggest that Disney looks to other top movie studies for executive talent. How to Increase Investment in Film While Disney is halting its theme park expansion in the United States and conducting market research overseas for new sites, a lot of additional capital will be lying around waiting to be invested. Once the new executives are in place, we suggest that Disney allocates a considerable amount of its free capital to motion pictures and see what kind of results that its newly hired executives can produce. Dividend Policy Issue One of the many vital points of interest that Ron Miller must address as Disney moves into the future is making a decision on its dividend policy. When looking at the dividend policy of the company, it is critical to conduct a financial ratio analysis of the company. Upon doing so, certain trends can be noticed. One of these noticeable trends happens to fall within the dividend payout rate. For over a decade, the dividend payout rate fluctuated only slightly staying in the range of 4% to 8%. Then beginning in 1978, the dividends began to increase exponentially arriving at a rate of 44. 4% only five years later in 1983. This five year spike in the dividend payout rate has come at the same time as the earnings per share continue to fall. This immediately should raise concerns for the financial security of the company. Analysis In deciding on a dividend policy, it is crucial for the company to decide how growth oriented it would like to be. Speaking simply, the mor e dividends Disney decides to pay out, the less retained earnings it has to put into future positively valued projects. This can be seen in the company’s sustainable growth rate. Calculating for 1883, the growth rate is only 3. 70% Given the large dividend payout rate of 44. 44%, Disney cannot grow with retained earnings at anything more than a modest 3. 70%. If Disney wanted to grow more than that, it could consider taking on more debt. The company has historically been averse to taking on too much debt and will most likely want to continue that trend into the future. If Disney wants to continue to grow without taking on debt, the company will need to consider lowering the dividend payout rate. Suggested Change Lower Dividends To align the dividend payout rate more closely with earnings per share along with setting the company up for more future growth projects, it is crucial in Disney’s financial planning that they cut back the dividend rate. It is our suggestion that Disney reduces its dividend so that its dividend payout ratio is in line with its historic payout of about 7. 50%. This will require Disney to cut its dividend down to $. 20 per share (based on 1983 EPS of $2. 70 per share). Decreasing the dividend to $. 20 per share would nearly double Disney’s sustainable growth rate, increasing it to 6. 16%. As a result, Disney would be able to finance more projects through retained earnings and continue to keep its leverage down. Implementation How to Lower Dividends Obviously, shareholders are not going to be happy to hear that you want to cut the dividend by 83%. This is why you have to issue a press release for general shareholders and at least a conference call or meeting with major shareholders to inform them of your intentions. During the conversation with shareholders, you are going to have to explain how it was a mistake in the past to increase dividends as earnings per share continued to slide. Let the shareholders know that you are going to correct this mistake now, rather than letting it continue to slide. Finally, mention that decreasing dividends will also help Disney remain a financially healthy company by keeping its debt low. Corporate Takeover Attempt Issue Possibly the most important issue faced by Ron Miller and the leadership of Walt Disney Productions is the imposing takeover attempt by well-known corporate raider, Saul Steinberg. This attempt has been sparked by Walt Disney’s current financial situation and performance. Currently, Disney seems to be an ideal target for a takeover. Disney has a great amount of cash on hand, totaling about $18 million. This, along with Disney’s underperformance and inefficiencies, are strong motivating factors for Steinberg’s attempt. It is likely that Saul Steinberg believes Walt Disney Productions to be undervalued. This is a conclusion shared by most raiders about the targets in takeover attempts. Disney is currently trading at $50 per share. Steinberg just initiated a tender offer for 49 percent of the company for $67. 50 per share. This is where Ron Miller must face a difficult decision by giving in to the greenmailing attempt by agreeing to purchase back Steinberg’s shares at a premium, or letting Walt Disney Productions fall victim to a takeover. Analysis It is essential for the future of Disney for us to examine the value of the company. From there, Disney must decide at what price, if any, should they buy back Steinberg’s shares. As stated earlier, Disney’s stock has been recently trading at $50 per share. (Graph) For our analysis of valuing the company, we calculated a WACC of 16. 6%, as well as three different possible growth rates of 8%, 11%, and 13%. From these calculations we were able to surmise an estimated company value of $68. 12 per share. This would lead us, as well as Saul Steinberg, to believe Disney to be undervalued. Recommendation Don’t Buy Steinberg’s Shares To successfully ward of Steinberg and his attempted takeover, Disney must offer him a hefty premium for the purchase of his shares. With his ownership of 12% of the company and his recent attempt for 49 percent of it, a pivotal decision must be made. However, after valuing the company and weighing possible options, we have come to a recommendation. For the sake of both the shareholders and stakeholders of the company, it would be not be wise to buy the shares owned by Saul Steinberg. A decision to succumb to Steinberg’s greenmail would greatly cripple the company from a financial standpoint. If Disney were to buy his share of the company, investors would experience a huge decline in their shares. Such a decision would be made solely to preserve the jobs and welfare of top managers of the company. Disney would be failing to maximize shareholder value, thus weakening Disney’s position in the market. We concluded that in order to avoid the takeover attempt, Disney would have to pay Steinberg $69 per share. This is $0. 88 more than our estimated value of the company and a 38% premium with respect to the current share price. This would leave Saul Steinberg with $289. 8 million, or a profit of $24 million at the expense of Disney’s shareholders. Implementation Don’t Buy Shares, Improve Company Instead of buying the shares, Disney should focus on cleaning up its act as a financially sound company, as well as a leader in its respective industries. With the likely replacement of Ron Miller and top executives, Disney would find itself in a position to change its current business policies. Disney is already highly capital intensive, with the recent increased spending on theme parks. The company should not be acquiring more debt by purchasing two new companies with no apparent synergies. Disney should immediately dump these unwisely obtained businesses. The money from these sales would enable Disney to invest in new business ventures, like expanding abroad and tapping into new markets.