Effect of Coffee Bean Prices on Starbucks Essays

Effect of Coffee Bean Prices on Starbucks Essays Effect of Coffee Bean Prices on Starbucks Essay Effect of Coffee Bean Prices on Starbucks Essay GM599 Course Project Problem Statement: February 2011, coffee prices hit a 14-year high at $2. This trend is likely to continue for some time as this rising prices according to analysts is primarily due to a combination of the growing demand for different types of coffee and the poor harvests we have had in past years. How should the company position itself against the continuous increase and/or fluctuations in the price of its main raw material? Background: Starbucks is almost synonymous with coffee, although the company offers other beverages and products. The organization prides itself as the premier roaster and retailer of specialty coffee in the world with about 17,000 stores and operating in more than 50 countries worldwide. Coffee is its major raw material and like the competition, the recent price increases have been passed on to an extent to the consumers. Concern: According to the NewYork times, â€Å"In 2008, Starbucks found itself in an economic climate that had most people reassessing their daily spending habits on luxury items. The company’s revenues and profit tumbled as a result. Starbucks was hurt by rising costs, the cannibalizing effects of years of overexpansion, and stiff competition in espresso drinks from the likes of McDonald’s and Dunkin’ Donuts. In the summer of 2007, its customer traffic declined for the first time since the company went public, sending the stock tumbling. By the end of its fiscal 2008, Starbucks stock, once seemingly invincible, had declined by over 50 percent† In other words the company may not be invincible and continuous price increases of its products coupled with stiff competition can affect the company. With 17,000 stores worldwide, growing number of partners (as their employees are referred to ) and stockholders, the failure of the company will have a huge impact on many families and economies. Plan of Study: This paper seeks to recommend ways the company can maintain its consumer base and profitability in the face of these price fluctuations. To achieve this, the research will involve an examination of the coffee industry, major sources of coffee, how prices are determined and factors that drive the process. In addition, the effect of price increases and how it affects Starbucks and its consumers will be examined. Furthermore, the effectiveness of Starbuck’s current strategy on the issue will be considered before recommendations for the future are provided. References http://money. cnn. com/2011/02/18/markets/coffee_price/index. htm http://topics. nytimes. com/top/news/business/companies/starbucks_corporation/index. html http://assets. starbucks. com/assets/aboutuscompanyprofileq12011final13111. pdf

Maggie Lena Walker

Maggie Lena Walker Overview Maggie Lena Walker once said, I am of the opinion [that] if we can catch the vision, in a few years we shall be able to enjoy the fruits from this effort and its attendant responsibilities, through untold benefits reaped by the youth of the race. Walker was the first American womanof any raceto be a bank president and inspired African-Americans to become   self-sufficient entrepreneurs. As a follower of Booker T. Washington’s philosophy of cast down your bucket where you are, Walker was a lifelong resident of Richmond, working to bring change to African-Americans throughout Virginia. Achievements   First American woman to establish and be appointed as a bank president.  Established the St. Luke Herald, a local African-American newspaper.   Early Life In 1867, Walker was born Maggie Lena Mitchell in Richmond, Va. Her parents, Elizabeth Draper Mitchell and father, William Mitchell, were both former slaves who were emancipated through the thirteenth amendment. Walkers mother was an assistant cook and her father was a butler in a mansion owned by the abolitionist Elizabeth Van Lew. Following the death of her father, Walker took on a number of jobs to help support her family.   By 1883, Walker graduated at the top of her class. That same year, she began teaching at the Lancaster School. Walker also attended the school, taking classes in accounting and business. Walker taught at the Lancaster School for three years before accepting a job as a secretary of the Independent Order of St. Luke in Richmond, an organization that assisted sick and elderly members of the community. Entrepreneur   While working for the Order of St. Luke, Walker was appointed secretary-treasurer of the organization. Under Walkers leadership, the organizations membership increased tremendously by encouraging African-American women to save their money. Under Walkers tutelage, the organization purchased an office building for $100,000 and increased the staff to more than fifty employees. In 1902, Walker established the St. Luke Herald, an African-American newspaper in Richmond. Following the successes of the St. Luke Herald, Walker established the St. Luke Penny Savings Bank. By doing so, Walker became the first women in the United States to found a bank. The goal of the St. Luke Penny Savings Bank was to provide loans to members of the community. In 1920, the bank helped members of the community purchase an estimated 600 houses. The success of the bank helped the Independent Order of St. Luke continue to grow. In 1924, it was reported that the order had 50,000 members, 1500 local chapters, and estimated assets of at least $400,000. During the Great Depression, St. Luke Penny Savings merged with two other banks in Richmond to become The Consolidated Bank and Trust Company. Walker served as chairperson of the board. Community Activist   Walker was an avid fighter for the rights of not only African-Americans, but women as well. In 1912, Walker helped establish the Richmond Council of Colored Women and was elected as the organizations president. Under Walkers leadership, the organization raised money to support Janie Porter Barretts Virginia Industrial School for Colored Girls as well as other philanthropic endeavors. Walker was also a member of the National Association of Colored Women (NACW), the International Council of Women of the Darker Races, the National Association of Wage Earners, National Urban League, the Virginia Interracial Committee and the Richmond chapter of National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). Honors and Awards Throughout Walkers life, she was honored for her efforts as a community builder. In 1923, Walker was the recipient of an honorary Masters degree from Virginia Union University. Walker was inducted in to the Junior Achievement U.S. Business Hall of Fame in 2002. In addition, the City of Richmond named a street, theatre and high school in Walkers honor. Family and Marriage In 1886, Walker married her husband, Armistead, an African-American contractor. The Walkers had two sons named Russell and Melvin.

The Environment and the Hospitality Industry Essay

The Environment and the Hospitality Industry - Essay Example In the current global economic crisis, there are however various issues which are threats and which have threatened the hospitality industry. These issues mostly impact on the profitability of the industry and its related businesses. This paper shall consider environmental issues, including global warming and pollution – issues which are impacting on the hospitality industry. It shall also present a critique of appropriate literature which relates to this issue. This paper is being carried out in order to establish a clear and comprehensive understanding of the subject matter, as well as the pertinent issues which relate to its application. There are various issues which are impacting on the hospitality industry. One such issue relates to the environment and the call for sustainable development and environmentally viable hospitality design. Going green is one of the clamors in the current hospitality industry, and such clamor has become more than an isolated demand, it has now become part of the mainstream demand (Wang and Wang, 2009, p. 53). Environmentalists are pressuring the hospitality industry to implement more sustainable and environmentally friendly processes in their business processes. In a report by hotelier Hasek (2007), he mentions about 10 issues which the hospitality industry is currently faced with in relation to the environment. One issue is based on the fact that it is difficult to avoid rising energy costs with such costs increasing to a significant degree each year. Another issue pointed out by Hasek (2007) is the need to design and build new hotels which meet environmental standards. This would aga in cost the industry a significant amount of money. Still another environmental issue threatening the hospitality industry is global warming itself. Some of the effects of global warming include extreme weather conditions – drought and floods – and other weather disturbances.

Project Learning Plan Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 5250 words

Project Learning Plan - Essay Example Additionally, the decisive factor gained from my own personal and professional experiences are by establishing parameters and determination to learn initiatives within those boundaries at being the most effective as a professional in my career. Furthermore, my Master of Professional Studies will be based on my studies that I achieved throughout my career along with my reflections from those experiences. â€Å"With these skills† I am able to relate to projects that are endeavoured to undertake in my business as a Safety Professional with Qld/NT BCM Boral Ltd. The Company operates as a Global and National Construction and Materials company. I am responsible for ensuring that all Queensland sites include the effective safe management and support mechanisms in regard to safety of employees throughout the organisation. My role increasingly places me as an internal leader with my peers. By providing the use of effective interpersonal skills in the provision of leadership, advice and support, I maintain the standards of the principles in performance and standards that I have established as a role model within the safety team. In order to continue my inclinations to succeed, I must essentially set my own conclusions of focus settings within my organisation and externally. Additionally, I must continue to be adaptable in all situations of this position and everyday life experiences. Therefore, by employing and utilising my strategies of project management within the Company and researching the best practices outside the industry, my planned learning methodology will align with the Company’s business objectives and be an active role model of the team. In my Professional Masters, I will be directing my studies into all aspects of my Company: 1) Researching methods and techniques, while drawing on comparisons within the industry; 2) Utilising frameworks and structured approaches to solving project orientated areas; 3) Develop and implement the best practices and procedures within the industry; 4) Work towards managing risks of my organisation to function effectively with these projects. Furthermore, my Professional Masters studies will forward my professional standings within the industry and grading as a Fellow of the Safety Institute of Australia as a proven leader in my profession. In summary, of my Masters, the remaining subjects to finalise this qualification include: WBL 8000: Learning Plan: 1 Unit WBL 8020: OHS Safety Management System National Implementation Project – two Units (submitted). I am currently self-sponsoring my degree in my Masters. However, early indications that these projects have the full support of the Company in regard to time and resources for project completion are assured. Moreover, my mentor in the company has considerable expertise learning in all aspects of my projects, which will greatly expand my existing knowledge to his standard. As I extend my journey, my University lecturer will lead me thro ugh the system by having extensive

Years 1515-1525 Henry Viii Essay Example for Free

Years 1515-1525 Henry Viii Essay Do you agree with the view that in the years 1515-1525 Henry VIII wholly surrendered power in government to Cardinal Wolsey? To a certain extent within †¨Source 4 (by J.J. Scarisbrick 1968) supports the idea that possibly Henry VIII actually did surrender power over to Wolsey. The evidence within the source that suggests this possibly for being the truth is ‘a self-indulgent King had wholly surrendered the cares of the state into the Cardinals hands’. To further support this case, it is clear that Wolsey was extremely powerful, he had vast amounts of bishoprics (Archbishop of Canterbury, Tournai, Durham just to name a few) and was the head of things such as the Star Chamber where Wolsey got himself heavily involved with. This is shown when you compared the number of cases Wolsey took on (120) compared to that of Henry VII who dealt with only 12. Also Wolsey had control of all of the state finances and could make large changes to things such as the taxation system he was able to introduce a new form of tax known as the ‘Subsidy’ which was more popular since it meant the poor payed far less tax than previously than with the old 15’s and 10’s taxation method. This new taxation method allowed Wolsey to pay for king’s foreign affairs. As well as this ‘subsidy’, since Wolsey had such significant power he was able to also raise considerable amounts of capital through other means, such as through ‘benevolences’ and enforced loans from the nobility, which raised  £200,000 in 1522. This shows that Wolsey was especially powerful as ‘benevolences’ was money disguised as a gift and was only ever done by monarchs, possibly suggesting that Wolsey could be classed as an Alter Rex. Despite the positivity and great power J.J. Scarisbrick gives to Wolsey within the source we also learn that George Cavendish influences this source significantly even right from the beginning ‘Cavendishtells us’. Cavendish was Wolsey’s friend and servant, meaning he would be more than likely faithful to his master and try and write as positively about him as possible. This means that potentially the source might not be so reliable. However, Source 5 written in 1994 by John Lotherington, appears to disagree with that of the view of source 4. In parts it appears to actually agree with source 4, ‘Wolsey held a dominant position in government and controlled the distribution of patronage’ but then the source continues to say, ‘And of course the ultimate source of all power was the King’. This quote can be proven true with examples of Henry preventing Wolsey from doing something, such as in 1523 when Wolsey launched a sea attack upon the French without the kings permission, this led to Wolsey having to apologize for his actions. This shows that Henry still had control over Wolsey and that he couldn’t get away with something so easily. Also even though source 4 claims that Wolsey had very strong control, that even with this power he couldn’t prevent such things like The Amicable Grant of 1525 from being a disaster, and without aids from The Dukes of Norfolk and Suffolk it could have been an even more disastrous, this proves Henry was more in control than Wolsey because the Dukes only subdued the rebellions on Henry’s behalf, not Wolsey’s. This is showing how Henry had not wholly surrendered his government power, and could still contest Wolsey’s decisions and problems. The source was also written in 1994, therefore the historians view is likely to be more factual rather than written in the period and being more biased, as can be the case, especially if that figure in question is still alive or has close descendants. Source 6 appears to agree with the opinions of Source 5 in that Henry VIII had not wholly surrendered power in government to Wolsey. Source 6 is a letter from Henry to Wolsey in 1520, it says, ‘I desire you to keep a watch on the Duke of Suffolk, the Duke of Buckingham, my lord of Northumberland, my lord Derby, my lord of Wiltshire and on any others of whom you are suspicious’ The source shows Henry giving orders to Wolsey, suggesting that Wolsey did not have all of the governmental power, I also know this from my own knowledge. For example Wolsey’s fall from grace on the 9th October 1529 (when he is charged with praemunire, which is exercising his legatine power to the detriment of the King) because he was unable to secure the divorce for Henry. The fact that the King was able to remove Wolsey’s power so quickly again illustrates how Henry had no wholly surrendered his government power to Wolsey, as his decisions overruled any of Wolsey’s. The source is also fairly reliable, as it was written by Henry himself and is clearly giving Wolsey orders, even before he has fallen from grace. In conclusion, I do not agree with the view that in the year’s 155-1525 Henry VIII wholly surrendered power in government to Cardinal Wolsey. This is because both sources 5 and 6 corroborate the idea that although Wolsey does have a large amount of government power, Henry still makes overruling decisions and exercises government power over Wolsey. This is also backed up with my own knowledge. Therefore, Henry did not wholly surrender his government power to Wolsey.

A Feminist Perspective of A Dolls House Essay -- Feminism Feminist Wo

A Feminist Perspective of A Doll's House In "A Doll's House", Ibsen portrays the bleak picture of a role held by women of all economic classes that is sacrificial. The female characters in the play back-up Nora's assertion that even though men are unable to sacrifice their integrity, "hundreds of thousands of woman have." Mrs. Linde found it necessary to abandon Krogstad, her true but poor love, and marry a richer man in order to support her mother and two brothers. The nanny has to abandon her children to support herself by working for Nora. Though Nora is economically advantaged, in comparison to the other female characters, she leads a hard life because society dictates that Torvald be the marriages dominant member. Torvald condescends Nora and inadvertently forces Nora to hide the loan from him. Nora knows that Torvald could never accept the idea that his wife, or any other woman, could aid in saving his life. At the beginning of "A Doll's House", Nora seems completely happy. She responds to Torvald's teasing, relishes in the excitement of his new job, and takes pleasure in the company of her children and friends. Nora never appears to disagree with her doll-like existence, in which she is cuddled, pampered and patronized. As the play progresses, Nora's true character appears and proves that she is more than just a "silly girl" as Torvald calls her. Her understanding of the business details related to the dept she incurred in taking out a loan to help Torvald's health shows her intelligence and her abilities beyond being merely a wife. The secret labor she undertakes to pay off her dept demonstrates her determination and ambition. In addition, her willingness to break the law in order to aid her... ...dlike mentality and needs to grow before she can raise her own children. Her defiance of Torvald, when he refuses to let her leave, reflects her epiphany that she isn't obligated to let Torvald dictate her actions. The height of Nora's realization comes when she tells Torvald that her duty to herself is as strong as her duty as a wife and mother. She now sees that she is a human being before she is a wife and mother and she owes herself to explore her personality, ambitions, and beliefs. Works Consulted Clurman, Harold. Ibsen. New York: Macmillan. 1977 Ibsen, Henrik. Four Major Plays. New York: Oxford University Press, 1998 Shaw, Bernard. "A Doll's House Again."   Twentieth-Century Literary Criticism.   Detroit: Gale Research Inc., 1979. Templeton, Joan. "The Doll House Backlash: Criticism, Feminism, and Ibsen." PMLA (January 1989): 28-40. A Feminist Perspective of A Doll's House Essay -- Feminism Feminist Wo A Feminist Perspective of A Doll's House In "A Doll's House", Ibsen portrays the bleak picture of a role held by women of all economic classes that is sacrificial. The female characters in the play back-up Nora's assertion that even though men are unable to sacrifice their integrity, "hundreds of thousands of woman have." Mrs. Linde found it necessary to abandon Krogstad, her true but poor love, and marry a richer man in order to support her mother and two brothers. The nanny has to abandon her children to support herself by working for Nora. Though Nora is economically advantaged, in comparison to the other female characters, she leads a hard life because society dictates that Torvald be the marriages dominant member. Torvald condescends Nora and inadvertently forces Nora to hide the loan from him. Nora knows that Torvald could never accept the idea that his wife, or any other woman, could aid in saving his life. At the beginning of "A Doll's House", Nora seems completely happy. She responds to Torvald's teasing, relishes in the excitement of his new job, and takes pleasure in the company of her children and friends. Nora never appears to disagree with her doll-like existence, in which she is cuddled, pampered and patronized. As the play progresses, Nora's true character appears and proves that she is more than just a "silly girl" as Torvald calls her. Her understanding of the business details related to the dept she incurred in taking out a loan to help Torvald's health shows her intelligence and her abilities beyond being merely a wife. The secret labor she undertakes to pay off her dept demonstrates her determination and ambition. In addition, her willingness to break the law in order to aid her... ...dlike mentality and needs to grow before she can raise her own children. Her defiance of Torvald, when he refuses to let her leave, reflects her epiphany that she isn't obligated to let Torvald dictate her actions. The height of Nora's realization comes when she tells Torvald that her duty to herself is as strong as her duty as a wife and mother. She now sees that she is a human being before she is a wife and mother and she owes herself to explore her personality, ambitions, and beliefs. Works Consulted Clurman, Harold. Ibsen. New York: Macmillan. 1977 Ibsen, Henrik. Four Major Plays. New York: Oxford University Press, 1998 Shaw, Bernard. "A Doll's House Again."   Twentieth-Century Literary Criticism.   Detroit: Gale Research Inc., 1979. Templeton, Joan. "The Doll House Backlash: Criticism, Feminism, and Ibsen." PMLA (January 1989): 28-40.

Business Model Assignment Essay

Had been very busy lately finishing up on all the marking and a host of other stuff. Why is it that everything has to come together at the same time? Now I have to advise my students on completing their Business Model Assignment. My advise to them: â€Å"Do a little bit every day. Don’t wait until the week of submission and then try to cramp everything in one week. You will go haywire if you do that.† There are four parts to the business model as required in the coursework brief: core strategy, strategic resources, partnership network, and customer interface. Now, we are in Week 4. Try to cover one part in one week, and you will be able to complete your assignment by Week 7. Of course, you would have to compromise on your CNY celebrations. Never mind, you still have many more CNYs to come. :)) In this post, I will touch on the first part – i.e. core strategy. Let me start with business model. A business model is just a simplified description of how a business makes money. Usually, it is the precursor to the business plan. The objective of having a business plan is to â€Å"sell† your project to external financiers or internally to top management. If you have a well-thought out business model, then it forms the basis for writing a good business plan. A business plan may consist of the management team, the business model, the implementation plan, the financial plan, an analysis of the external environments, and maybe also a part on risk analysis. So you see, the business model is actually just a part of the business plan. Okay, now let’s look at core strategy. What exactly do we mean by â€Å"core†? It simply refers to our most valuable customers – who we are selling to. It also refers to our most important product – what we are selling. Also refers to our most important channels – how we are selling. Strategy? It’s just the art and science of today’s business environment i.e. how we differentiate ourselves from others. It refers to us finding our very own space in an over-crowded market. In the marking scheme, marks for this part is allocated for three areas of discussion: the mission statement (3 marks), product and/or market scope (4 marks) and basis for differentiation (4 marks). Let us move to the first of these: the mission statement. The mission statement simply defines what we sell and who we sell to. Having a mission statement provides us and our employees the framework and purpose of the existence of our business. The mission statement can be stated in one sentence or several sentences. Get your group’s members to sit down together and brainstorm on a mission statement for your group’s business venture. If you put your brains together, you will be able to come up with a reasonably good mission statement. Google for examples of mission statements. Learn from the mission statements of others and try formulate a good one for yourself. After your group has come up with the mission statement, then explain your mission statement. So, in this area, two things you need to do: State and explain your mission statement. The next area of discussion is your product and/or market scope. Product scope refers to the number of products you carry for sale in your business. You may build a successful business based on a single product strategy or you may have different lines of product to cater to a larger variety of customers. Your product scope will determine your future marketing strategy, your profit goals, and market saturation. With a single product scope, you build your business around one primary product. You become a specialist and often can build a niche market for your product, especially if you can develop territories over which you have complete control. Management is simple and inventory is easily monitored. A multiple product scope can include selling two or three or hundreds of products. Market scope is similar to product scope. It defines the number of customers you sell to and who they are. Yeah, you are right – it’s akin to market segmentation. You should have studied about market segmentation in your Fundamentals of Marketing course. If you have forgotten, well, just Google and find out. So, in this area, what you need to do is to describe your product/s and/or your customer segments. What’s next? Oh yeah, basis for differentiation. Meaning how you differentiate your product or service with those offered by your competitors. Differentiating your product makes you stand out from the crowd. It represents the X-factor that sways the customer’s preference in your favor. In other words, successful product differentiation creates a  competitive advantage for you because customers will tend to perceive that your product is unique or one of a kind. Product differentiation may be as simple as just changing the way that a product is packaged. It may also be as elaborate as introducing new functionalities to the product. So, in this area, what you need to do is to explain how your product/service is differentiated from those of your competitors.

Mental Retardation and Child Abuse

Sling Blade is a film about a mentally retarded individual by the name of Karl, who murders his mother and her lover – Karl’s classmate – at the age of twelve.   Subsequently, Karl is institutionalized.   Upon release, Karl returns to his hometown where he befriends a young boy, Frank.   The boy’s father had committed suicide, and his mother is dating Doyle, who abuses both Frank and his mother.   Eventually, Karl is responsible for the murder of Doyle as well, as he must put an end to the abuse that he is witnessing in the lives of Frank and his mother. The story of the film is atypical seeing that Karl is a mentally retarded individual who takes action against child abuse.   Scientific research, on the other hand, has revealed that it is usually the mentally retarded individual who must suffer abuse simply because he cannot take care of himself. As an example, Morse, Sahler, and Friedman studied twenty five children who had been abused, out of which forty two percent were mentally retarded.   All except one of the mentally retarded children in the study had already been diagnosed as mentally retarded before they were abused.   Hence, it is obvious that the abusers knew that the mentally retarded children are vulnerable to abuse. According to Morse, Sahler, and Friedman, people who spend time with mentally retarded children are usually aware that these children are not always able to physically or verbally defend themselves.   Moreover, these children are not always able to describe their abuse to others.   Typically, they are also unable to differentiate between proper and improper verbal communication and/or physical contact, regardless of whether the physical contact is sexual or violent in nature. Lastly, mentally retarded children are truly dependent on other people for all manners of assistance.   This makes them more trusting toward their caretakers as well as others.   Also according to the authors, passivity as well as compliance stem from the trust and dependency of the mentally retarded child.   Those who abuse mentally retarded children are, therefore, taking undue advantage of the trust shown by these children. Sandgrund, Gaines, and Green have also conducted a study on children.   Out of one hundred and twenty children studied by the authors, sixty had been abused, thirty had been neglected, and another thirty had not been abused at all.   The authors reported that twenty five percent of the abused children in their study had been diagnosed as mentally retarded. Twenty percent of the neglected children had similarly been recognized as mentally retarded, while only three percent of the children who had never been abused were mentally retarded.   The findings of this study reveal that mentally retarded children are quite likely to be abused.   The fact that Karl of Sling Blade was never abused – rather, he had the intelligence to differentiate between proper and improper verbal communication and/or physical contact – shows that the film is about an unusual mentally retarded individual.   Sandgrund, Gaines, and Green write that mentally retarded children are normally hesitant to report instances of abuse because they fear losing the essential relationships with their caretakers. Furthermore, these children are not always believed if they manage to report abuse.   Seeing that Karl was not afraid to lose his caretaker at the time he killed his mother reveals that this mentally retarded child was definitely not a typical one. McFadden has also written about the abuse of mentally ill children, including those who are mentally retarded.   Reporting a study conducted by the New York State Commission on Quality of Care for the Mentally Disabled, McFadden writes that abuse in institutions for mentally retarded children is higher than abuse in institutions for children who are mentally fit.   Also according to the author: In analyzing those cases, the commission found that abuse most often occurred in leisure-  time areas, such as recreation rooms and sleeping quarters, where children congregate without  structured activities.   It also found that boys over 12 years of age and children who exhibited  disturbing conduct were at the highest risk of abuse. In 16 percent of the cases, the study said, a finding of abuse or neglect was made by the  reporting facility.   In another 18 percent, the facility found misconduct by an employee but no  evidence of abuse.   In 66 percent, some corrective action was taken and in nearly 20 percent  disciplinary action was taken against at least one employee. Most of those responsible for the abuse or neglect were not new employees.   The study said  80 percent of them had worked at the facility at least one year and 50 percent had been  employed more than three years (McFadden). Karl was fortunate because his mother did not abuse him.   He was not abused in an institution either.   All the same, research evidence suggests that mentally retarded children are highly vulnerable to abuse.   In unusual cases, perhaps mentally retarded individuals like Karl may be able to struggle against child abuse.   Then again, they might have to take drastic actions such as those of Karl in order to end child abuse.   After all, mentally retarded individuals are not considered credible if they simply manage to report abuse. Works Cited McFadden, Robert D. â€Å"Child Abuse High in New York Mental Centers.† New York Times. 1 Dec 1987. 17 Nov 2007. . Morse, C.W., O.Z. Sahler, and S.B. Friedman. â€Å"A Three-Year Follow-Up Study of Abused and Neglected Children.† American Journal of Diseases of Children. Vol. 120 (1970): pp. 439-446. Sandgrund, H., R. Gaines, and A. Green. â€Å"Child Abuse and Mental Retardation: A Problem of Cause and Effect.† American Journal of Mental Deficiency. Vol. 79 (1974): pp. 327-330. Sling Blade. Dir. Billy Bob Thorton. 1996.            

International Marketing Tervis Tumbler product

International Marketing Tervis Tumbler product Product Description Tervis Tumblers, a family owned company produces the ultra sonically sealed indestructible tumblers, which come in six different sizes together with a 2.5qt ice bucket.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on International Marketing Tervis Tumbler product specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The company makes use of double walled technology in producing the tumblers as well as the ice buckets and this greatly aids in insulation properties as well as personalized design. The fact that Tervis tumblers bear specific logos, words, or pictures as per the customer’s request has greatly promoted the products. It is also worth noting that customers get a lifetime guarantee on the Tervis tumblers that they buy; this means that if the products are damaged during normal usage, a replacement is guaranteed. In the year 2006, the company’s sales grew by 38% through September, and in the same year, Te rvis Tumblers was named the company of the year by the Sarasota County Economic Development Corporation in the United States (Anon Para 1). Tervis Tumblers currently has the headquarters in North Venice, Florida and most of its products are sold in the United States. Bearing in mind the quality of the products it is imperative to think of how well the product would sell internationally. Moreover, according to Lynn (Para. 3), most of the tervis tumblers cost between US $10 and US $14 whereas the ice buckets go for US $40 in the market. Cultural Influences Tervis tumblers have been widely marketed in many parts of the world but hardly in Africa. In Africa, one of the countries with the most stable economies and very high purchasing power is South Africa. In 2009, the country had an annual GDP purchasing power parity of US $ 488.6 and its Per capita GDP is US$ 10000; and according to UNICEF (2008) statistics, South Africa has an adult literacy rate of 88%. Due to these reasons, South A frica is an ideal candidate for international marketing of Tervis tumblers. In addition, South Africa has one of the most diverse and culturally rich societies in the world. Moreover, South Africans are very hospitable and the country is actually home a variety of cultures including the black people, whites, colored, and Indians among others (South Africa Language, Culture, Customs and Etiquette Para 1). South Africans have very close family ties and they largely operate on mutual trust in their relationships. Those who live in rural regions are more culturally conservative than the urban dwellers and as such, city dwellers are often materialistic and live on the fast lane. Therefore, the immediate target market for the products should be the city dwellers.Advertising Looking for research paper on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More However, this will greatly depend on the specific ethnic group the company will be dealing with putting in mind that each of the three main ethnic communities – British, Boers, and native Africans – has unique cultural heritage and purchasing behavior (Ahlstrom and Bruton 228). South Africans highly value the creative arts, with many musicians, movie stars, and authors being highly acclaimed all over the world. Arts galleries are held all over the country, most of which cater for tourists. The South Africans’ love for arts is one aspect that would highly be exploited for Tervin tumblers’ marketing purposes considering that the tumblers are embossed with the customer’s design/artwork of choice. South Africans also love the national colors, especially because they value their cultural heritage. Indeed, a product containing or colored in the national colors would be highly marketable. Product and promotional emphasis This being a new product in South Africa, importing it from the United States to cut down on the colo ssal costs of setting up a manufacturing plant will be more appealing. In South Africa, many goods, especially industrial inputs are imported duty free and where duty is applied, the rates are always competitive (Guide to importing into South Africa Para. 5). Moreover, the country has become one of the prime market targets for many global producers of various products in the recent years, thus Tervis Tumblers will have to move fast to exploit this attractive market (Wilson, Abiola and World Bank 248). This therefore means that the product will not end up being too expensive because of transport costs, taxes, and customs duty. Through proper correspondence with the Tervis Tumblers headquarters in Florida, some of the products will be embossed with artworks that show South African heritage. This will enable South Africans to identify with the tumblers. The company will need to engage an agent to help with the distribution as the study of the market and the strategies used by the compe titors continues. The agent will also help in selling to the established wholesalers and dealers as well as departmental stores and retailers such as Abtech, Corporate Gifts, and Glow Sticks among others.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on International Marketing Tervis Tumbler product specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The most populous cities in the country that include Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, East Rand and Pretoria will be the primary target markets because they offer a higher probability of reaching the masses. in addition, the rich mass media industry will provide a ample avenue for advertising, thus making it easier to market the products. Moreover, considering that South Africa has a high adult literacy rate, the company will have to market the product by placing advertisements in the popular Newspapers as well as websites such as www.alibaba.com. As a good marketing strategy, there will be need to carefully cultivate good customer relations, learning of the changing demographic and buyer patterns as well as getting to know the emerging, neglected and poorly served markets for tumblers in the country (Parley 10). In order to counter the challenges that arise from marketing through the traditional media, the company will also do conversation marketing, which involves dialoguing with the target markets and getting feedback from potential customers (Lurie 9). The internet is a very good means of conversation marketing as it allows a marketer to respond to comments posted by customers or interested buyers in the particular website. Ahlstrom, David and Bruton, Garry D. International Management: Strategy and Culture in the Emerging World. Cengage Learning. 2009. Anon. Tervis Tumbler marks 60 years with strong sales, awards and recognitions. 2010. 11 October 2010. casualliving.com/article/468430-Tervis_Tumbler_marks_60_years_with_strong_sales_awards_and_recognitions.php. Lynn, Ja net. Tervis No Sweat Tumblers Lifetime Guarantee. 13 May 2010. 11 October 2010. http://sharedreviews.com/review/tervis-no-sweat-tumblers-lifetime-guarantee.Advertising Looking for research paper on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More â€Å"South Africa Language, Culture, Customs and Etiquette.† kwintessential. 2010. 11 October 2010. kwintessential.co.uk/resources/global-etiquette/south-africa-country-profile.html. â€Å"Guide to Importing into South Africa.† Guide to Importing into South Africa. 2010. 11 October 2010. mbendi.com/import/sa/customs_tariffs.htm. Parley Norton. The Manager’s Guide to Competitive Marketing Strategies. London, Thorogood.2005. 11 October 2010. https://books.google.com/books?id=KpLtp4puJUsCprintsec=frontcoverdq=marketing+strategieshl=enei=1B-zTLiqCMSK4QbTgY2zBgsa=Xoi=book_resultct=resultresnum=3ved=0CDoQ6AEwAg#v=onepageqf=false. Lurie Ian. Conversation Marketing; Internet Marketing Strategies. Washington, Potent Interactive Inc. 2006. 11 October 2010. https://books.google.com/books?id=89i3qYcm-58Cprintsec=frontcoverdq=marketing+strategieshl=enei=1B-zTLiqCMSK4QbTgY2zBgsa=Xoi=book_resultct=resultresnum=10ved=0CFsQ6AEwCQ#v=onepageqf=false. UNICEF. Statistics: South Af rica. 2008. 11 October 2010. unicef.org/infobycountry/southafrica_statistics.html. Wilson, John S., Abiola, Victor O. and World Bank. Standards and global trade: a voice for Africa. World Bank Publications. 2003. 11 October 2010. https://books.google.com/books?id=UZjwAsHJvo8Cpg=PA248dq=South+African+Products+importhl=enei=rgu0TPeJNtm5jAf9lrDhDAsa=Xoi=book_resultct=resultresnum=2ved=0CDgQ6AEwAQ#v=onepageq=South%20African%20Products%20importf=false.

Astronomy, Astrophysics and Astrology

Astronomy, Astrophysics and Astrology Astronomy and astrology are two distinct subjects: one is a science, and one is a parlor game. However, the two topics are frequently confused. Astronomy, as well as the related field of astrophysics, covers the science of stargazing and the physics that explains how stars and galaxies work. Astrology is a non-scientific practice that draws connections between star positions to make predictions about the future. The work of ancient astrologers formed the basis for the star and navigational charts used by the ancients, as well as some of the constellations we know today. However, there is no scientific basis in todays practice of astrology. Key Takeaways: Astronomy vs. Astrology Astronomy is the scientific study of the stars, planets, and galaxies, and their motions.Astrophysics uses principles and laws of physics to explain how stars, planets, and galaxies form and function. Astrology is a non-scientific form of entertainment that draws connections between human behavior and the alignment of the stars and planets. Astronomy and Astrophysics The difference between astronomy (literally law of the stars in Greek) and astrophysics (derived from the words Greek words for star and physics) comes from what the two disciplines are trying to accomplish. In both cases, the goal is to understand how objects in the universe function.   Astronomy describes the motions and origins of the heavenly bodies (stars, planets, galaxies, etc.). It also refers to the subject that you study when you want to learn about those objects and become an astronomer.  Astronomers study the light emanating or reflected from distant objects.   in astronomy, the bright star Alpha Centauri and its surrounding stars are studied by both astronomers and in astrophysics in order to understand their characteristics. . This is a main sequence star, just as the Sun is. NASA/DSS Astrophysics is literally the physics of the many different types of stars, galaxies, and nebulae. It applies the principles of physics to describe the processes involved in the creation of the stars and galaxies, as well as learning what drives their evolutionary changes. Astronomy and astrophysics are definitely interrelated but are clearly trying to answer different questions about the objects they study. Think of astronomy as saying, Heres what all these objects are and astrophysics as describing heres how all these objects work.   Astrophysics tells scientists about how stars, such as the Sun, work. Astrophysicists may also study how the solar wind interacts with the planets, as shown here. NASAs Goddard Space Flight Center Despite their differences, the two terms have become somewhat synonymous in recent years. Most astronomers receive the same training as astrophysicists, including the completion of a graduate program in physics (although there are many very good pure astronomy programs being offered). Others begin in mathematics and gravitate to astrophysics in graduate school. Much of the work done in the field of astronomy requires the application of astrophysical principles and theories. So while there are differences in definitions of the two terms, in application it is difficult to distinguish between them. When someone studies astronomy in high school or college, they first learn purely astronomy topics: motions of celestial objects, their distances, and their classifications. A deeper study of how they work requires physics and eventually astrophysics. Astrology Astrology (literally star study in Greek) is largely regarded as a pseudoscience. It does not study the physical characteristics of stars, planets, and galaxies. It is not concerned with applying principles of physics to the objects it uses, and it has no physical laws that help explain its findings. In fact, theres very little science in astrology. Its practitioners, called astrologers, simply use the positions of stars and planets and the Sun, as seen from Earth, to predict  people’s individual characteristics, affairs and future. Its largely akin to fortune-telling, but with a scientific gloss to give it some kind of legitimacy. In truth, theres no way to use stars and planets to tell anything about a give persons life or loves. Its all very imaginary and fanciful, but some people do derive a lot of satisfaction from fiddling with it. The Ancient Role Astrology Played in Astronomy While astrology has no scientific basis, it did play a preliminary role in the development of astronomy. This is because early astrologers were also systematic stargazers who charted the positions and motions of celestial objects. Those charts and motions are of great interest when it comes to understanding how stars and planets move through space. Astrology diverges from astronomy when astrologers attempt to use their knowledge of the sky to predict future happenings in peoples lives. In ancient times, they did this mostly for political and religious reasons. If an astrologer could predict some wonderful thing for his or her patron or king or queen, they might get to eat again. Or get a nice house. Or score some gold.   The IAU constellation designation for Pisces includes the main pattern plus numerous other stars. The early astrologers used the green outline of the stars as a way to divide the sky up into houses, through which the planets would wander. Pisces is a Zodiac constellation, meaning a region of the sky that the Sun and planets appear to wander through. To astrologers, where a planet or the Sun was on the day of a persons birth had some meaning. But, today, there is NO measurable link between those objects and the person being born. IAU/Sky Telescope   Astrology diverged from astronomy as a scientific practice during the years of the Enlightenment in the Eighteenth Century, when scientific studies became more rigorous. It became clear to scientists of that time (and ever since then) that no physical forces could be measured emanating from stars or planets that could account for the claims of astrology. In other words, the position of the Sun, Moon and planets at a persons birth have no effect on that persons future or personality. In fact, the effect of the doctor assisting with the birth is stronger than any distant planet or star.   Most people today know that astrology is little more than a parlor game. Except for astrologers who make money off of their art, educated people know that the so-called mystical effects of astrology have no actual scientific basis, and have never been detected by astronomers and astrophysicists. Edited by Carolyn Collins Petersen.

What causes structural unemployment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

What causes structural unemployment - Essay Example In most cases, unemployment occurs when the economy in the recession. Globally, more than 200 million people are unemployed which is equivalent to 6% of the global workforce. There are different types of unemployment. These include classical unemployment, cyclical unemployment, structural unemployment, frictional unemployment and hidden unemployment. This paper seeks to discuss about the causes of structural unemployment as well as the ways of dealing with this kind of unemployment. Structural unemployment is defined as a type of unemployment whereby at a given wage level, the labour demanded is lower that the labor supplied. This happens when there is a mismatch between the number of jobs available in the economy and the number of people who are willing to work (Romer, 2011). The mismatch may occur if the unemployed individuals lack the necessary skills as needed by the organizations or they may be residing in different parts of the country far from where the job opportunities are available. Being one of the permanent types of unemployment, most economists argue that improvement on causes of structural unemployment can only take place in the long run. Based on the changing level of technology and obsolescence of certain technology, some experts and systems become of less importance (Ford, 2009). For example, with the emergence of modern forms of printing by use of computers, the use typesetters became insignificance. Another scenario of structural unemployment can be indicated when the economy experience an increase in the level efficiency. In most cases, when any of the economy sectors has high level of efficiency, the number of workers required goes down. For example, by mechanizing the work in the agricultural sector, few employees are needed to carry out the duties in the sector. This implies that some individuals who have qualification in agricultural related