Growing Up in I Stand Here Ironing Essay -- American Literature Tillie

Growing upThe oppression of women by society has never been a secret. Many times it has been documented in works of literature, and atomic number 53 classical example of this occurrence is I Stand Here Ironing by Tillie Olsen. This story illustrates the consequences of oppression in womens lives.The story leads the lector on an alpha journey to witness the neglect by Emilys extremely guilty mother. This is described by the childrens cry when they are left with strangers, lacking attention and love out-of-pocket to the fact she is a single parent at a time where this was not commonly accepted in the community, causing a lot of stirred distress. The mothers pain and torment is apparent from the very beginning of the story. Her realization that she could have been a better mother, had it not been for the circumstances and life events which occurred following Emilys birth, such as the father who dealt with his parental responsibility by leaving - Her father left me before she was a year old. I had to work her first six geezerhood when there was work, or I sent her home and to his relatives (Olsen, 373). The mother does, however, continually shift cover and forth, as the metaphor of ironing implies, to invoke pity from the reader and explain that there were other people, and factors which played a significant role in Emilys upbringing. Purposely organized in a non chronological way, it illustrates the shifting, which is the passing back and forth of Emily emotionally (allowing the nursery, school teacher, and hospital staff play the primary care giver) and physically (the baby-sitter, the fathers family, etc) distress. Emilys mother seems to be constantly blaming her troubles and circumstances for the less than decorous ... ...one or more of the five senses of the reader. In this short story, the author uses literal language to call up a mental picture in the readers mind. In the last line of Emilys story her mother says, Only help Emily to know... that she is more than this dress on the ironing board, helpless before the iron (Olsen, 373). The image, ironing a dress, compares to actually raising a child. The dress represents the child, the iron is the childs parents and society, and the ironing board is their expectations. The theme this image conveys is that children grow up to become individuals as a exit of their interaction with their parents and society, their experiences, and their own insight, not simply being ironed in to societys preconceived model.Work CitedOlsen, Tillie. I Stand Here Ironing. The Story and Its Writer. Ed. Ann Charters. capital of Massachusetts Bedford, 1999.

Persecution of Hispanics Exposed in David Hernandez’s Pigeons Essay

Persecution of Hispanics Exposed in David Hernandezs PigeonsThe word foreigner is typically used when describing someone or something that just does not fit in. An outsider is different and distinct, but not always valued or appreciated for its diversities. instead the opposite of being appreciated, the outsider is usually castrated from whatever society it might have appe bed in, and looked down upon for its differences. Sadly, outsiders are frequent in humanity. Whether the purpose for their outsider status relates to gender, race, religion or level off economical standing, the fact is that there are outsiders in todays society. When one is made into an outsider, the bias they mother is terrible and unjust, and they are unable to prosper where most so-called insiders would be more likely to flourish. When people are made into outsiders, their metaphorical wings are clipped, and they are unable to take flight and honestly reach their true potential as human beings. David Hernand ez, a poet from Chicago, wrote Pigeons, a poem that addresses this issue of discrimination, and I tot with all of his various claims about insiders and how they are prejudiced against outsiders. In the poem, Hernandez uses the imagery of pigeons and doves to compare and contrast the treatment of ethnic outsiders (Hispanics in particular) and Caucasians in American society. Hernandez expand the many struggles that pigeons must deal with in order to function in their society, calling pigeons the spiks of Birdland (1023). Why are the pigeons labeled as spiks, though? Spik is a derogatory term used when addressing people of Latin American descent. Spik is also one of the many labels that American s... ...discrimination, but it is not the outsiders who need to change. It is the insiders who molest the outsiders for their differences that need a transformation. The insiders need a lesson in acceptance and tolerance. The doves should take a look at the pigeons and see a race that is pr oud of its heritage, even though they are oppressed because of it. The pigeons, in spite of being deemed the spiks of Birdland, should always celebrate who they are and be dancing in the streets (Hernandez 1023). To dance is to fly, and as want as the pigeons keep on dancing, their wings will forever be intact and they will always be able to fly, in spite of their persecution. plant CitedHernandez, David. Pigeons. Making Literature Matter An Anthology for Readers and Writers. Ed. John Schilb and John Clifford. Boston Bedford/St. Martins, 2000.1023-24.

Ambrose Bierces’ An Occurence At Owl Creek Bridge Essay -- Occurence O

Ambrose Bierces Story An Occurrence at schnoz creek coupleAmbrose Bierces story An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge tells the story of a confederate secessionist, who is being hanged by Union troops. At the time of the hanging, the soldiers barf him from the bridge. Luckily, just as he falls the rope snaps and the man dives into the sluggish stream. He miraculously takes off his ropes and swims away. When he reaches the bank of the creek, he runs for what seems care forever. He finally reaches home, where his family is waiting so anxiously for him. However, Bierce chooses to surround this intriguing tell with elements that carry visual, concrete, and intangible symbolism. The symbolic elements of An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge imply that the protagonist, Peyton Fahrquhar, is out of touch with reality, which evidently leads to the added twist at the end of the story. Many of the symbols in the story have to do with visual representation. For example, Bierce foc employments on on e specific color, which is fair-haired(a). Gray is the color of the Confederate soldiers uniforms. It is the also the color the Union soldier wears to deceive Fahrquhar. Gray is the color of the figures he sees in the distance in his delusion. It is also the color of the sharpshooter that misses him. Since canescent is bear oned so often, the reader can assume that it has a meaning outside its visual representation. First, the color gray is used to expose the mood of the story. Generally, when one think of the color gray, a poignant feeling arouses. Linking the two, the mood of the story is therefore also distressing. Secondly, the color gray is used to symbolize Fahrquhars role a middle man without much sense or direction. In the story, the first mention of the color is used to describe him. He wore a moustache and pointer beard, but no whiskers his eyes were large and dark grey The reader should also notice that Fahrquar is the totally one who sees gray, which means the col or, represents him. Gray is the intermediate in character and position. Like Fahrquar, who is considered to be in the middle of the situation, only trying to do what he believes is right. Bierce use of symbolism is far great than the very concept of the story. He also uses solid or concrete objects to convey his hidden messages. For example his constant mention of the Bridge. Obviously it... ...ot so bad but I do not wish to be blastoff. No I will not be shot that is not fair. In Fahrquars hallucination, he gets mad at the thought of being shot after he managed to escape his hanging. Depression kicks in when Bierce says By decline he was fatigued, footsore, and famished. He knew it (his neck) had a circle of black where the rope had bruised it. Fahrquar is tired and confused. This is a clear sign that death is near, leading him into depression, which sheds light on his unsurmountable endurance. Acceptance occurs when Bierce says, he has merely recovered from a delirium and sees home all bright and beautiful This clearly shows that Fahrquar has accepted what is happening, almost as if he has given up. He finally enters the last stage of his symbolic dying process. Bierce says, then all is dark and silentPeyton Fahrquar was dead An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge is riddled with symbolic meaning. Bierce creates a realistic disguise of events until the very end of the story, where he allows the reader to realize that Fahrquars escape did not actually occur. He uses symbols to convey the true meaning of this breathtaking story Perception is Reality.

John Sayles Men With Guns (Hombres Armados) :: Film Movies Analysis

John Sayles Men With Guns (Hombres Armados)In Men with Guns, John Sayles depicts a feudalistic economical system in an plain South American setting. Using the travels of Dr. Fuentes, a concerned doctor from the city, to reveal numerous aspects of peasant life, Sayles shows the economic whirlwind in which these peasants are caught. Men With Guns demonstrates how the feudal economic system operates by revealing the economic and political power the rich plantation owners possess and lord over their lessers.A cruel round of drinks in which the rich people maintain control and the despicable people are trapped with no way to rescue themselves, feudalism is a hierarchic foodstuff system. The people with money in Men With Guns are the landlords, the owners of the plantations. These people obviously control the land that they own as well as the profits from the sidetrack their land produces, but they also control the government, the soldiery, and consequently, the common people. Th is near omnipotent control forces the common people into a feudal relationship. Unless the peasants work on the feudal plantations, they will starve. The army ensures their reliance on the plantations by kicking them off of all arable land, leaving them with no food and no employment. Committing themselves to the yet employers in the region, the peasants are forced into a feudal relationship. They are held in this relationship by the army, which goes to extreme measures to maintain control of the peasants. Maintaining feudal conditions through craze and intimidation, the army holds the populace in a constant state of veneration. Guaranteeing that the peasants stay ill and in sine qua non furthers the necessity that they work to stay alive, but prevents them from doing so. This is the problem of the poor worker, but one the army does not see. The army blindly kills anyone who tries to help the peasants, murdering all the doctors and priests that enter the villages. They do so to keep the peasants in need and in ignorance, to prevent them from learning another way of life. Lacking knowledge of the outside world ensures that the peasants will remain in the plantations, because fear of the unknown is stronger than fear of the known. playacting as feudal knights, the army forces people into the feudal plantation relationship using fear and intimidation.Because the peasants do not make money or sit food according to the amount of time they work or the amount of labor they produce, the managerial role of the army becomes a necessity for the need of the workers.John Sayles Men With Guns (Hombres Armados) Film Movies AnalysisJohn Sayles Men With Guns (Hombres Armados)In Men with Guns, John Sayles depicts a feudal economic system in an agricultural South American setting. Using the travels of Dr. Fuentes, a concerned doctor from the city, to reveal numerous aspects of peasant life, Sayles shows the economic whirlwind in which these peasants are caught. Men Wi th Guns demonstrates how the feudal economic system operates by revealing the economic and political power the rich plantation owners possess and lord over their lessers.A cruel cycle in which the rich people maintain control and the poor people are trapped with no way to rescue themselves, feudalism is a hierarchical market system. The people with money in Men With Guns are the landlords, the owners of the plantations. These people obviously control the land that they own as well as the profit from the output their land produces, but they also control the government, the army, and consequently, the common people. This near omnipotent control forces the common people into a feudal relationship. Unless the peasants work on the feudal plantations, they will starve. The army ensures their reliance on the plantations by kicking them off of all arable land, leaving them with no food and no employment. Committing themselves to the only employers in the region, the peasants are forced into a feudal relationship. They are held in this relationship by the army, which goes to extreme measures to maintain control of the peasants. Maintaining feudal conditions through violence and intimidation, the army holds the populace in a constant state of fear. Guaranteeing that the peasants stay ill and in need furthers the necessity that they work to stay alive, but prevents them from doing so. This is the paradox of the poor worker, but one the army does not see. The army blindly kills anyone who tries to help the peasants, murdering all the doctors and priests that enter the villages. They do so to keep the peasants in need and in ignorance, to prevent them from learning another way of life. Lacking knowledge of the outside world ensures that the peasants will remain in the plantations, because fear of the unknown is stronger than fear of the known. Acting as feudal knights, the army forces people into the feudal plantation relationship using fear and intimidation.Because the pe asants do not make money or get food according to the amount of time they work or the amount of labor they produce, the managerial role of the army becomes a necessity for the motivation of the workers.

Human Trafficking Essay -- Crime

piece Trafficking is the unlawful trade of human beings for various purposes such as reproductive slavery or wake slavery. consort to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime UNODC protocol on trafficking, Trafficking in Persons is the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harbouring or receipt of persons, by means of the threat or drug abuse of force or other forms of coercion, of abduction, of fraud, of deception, of the abuse of power or of a position of vulnerability or of the giving or receiving of payments or benefits to achieve the take of a person having control over another person, for the purpose of exploitation (UNODC).Human Trafficking is a growing phenomenon. It is one of the fastest growing types of transnational villainy worldwide. According to the US State departments 2009 Trafficking in Persons Report, at least 12.3 million adults and children fall victim to human traffickers every year (qtd in Haerens 17). Human Trafficking occurs on every continent and h as been booming. One reason for the increase in human trafficking is because of globalization. When competing in the global marketplace companies and corporations need cheap labor, and they dresst care where it comes from. This in turn, causes the employment recruiters (the traffickers) to go after their prey (the trafficked).Human Trafficking can be thought of as a national pledge implication. One case of involuntary or forced servitude, standing alone, does not constitute a breach in national security. When viewed as a whole, in relation to human trafficking, this is considered as a major breach in National Security and should be treated as a serious crime. According to Rizer and Glaser the crime of trafficking in persons has recently been added... ...demic Search Complete. Web. 21 Mar. 2012.Haerens, Margaret. Human Trafficking. New York Greenhaven Press, 2012. Print.Human Trafficking. United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. UNODC, 2012. Web. 4 April. 2012.Kloer, Amanda. Sex Trafficking and HIV/AIDS. Human Rights 37.2 (2010) 8-25. Academic Search Complete. Web. 24 Mar. 2012.Ojeda, Auriana. Slavery Today. New York Greenhaven Press, 2004. Print.Pati, Roza. States Positive Obligations with Respect to Human Trafficking The European Court of Human Rights Breaks New Ground in Rantsev V. Cyprus and Russia. capital of Massachusetts University International Law Journal 29.1 (2011) 79-142. Academic Search Complete. Web. 23 Mar. 2012.Rizer, Arthur and Sheri R. Glaser. Breach The National Security Implications of Human Trafficking. Widener Law Review 17.1 (2011) 69-94. Academic Search Complete. Web. 21 Mar. 2012.

Human Trafficking Essay -- Crime

tender-hearted Trafficking is the unlawful trade of human beings for various purposes much(prenominal) as reproductive slavery or sex slavery. According to the United Nations chest of drawers on Drugs and Crime UNODC protocol on trafficking, Trafficking in Persons is the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harbouring or receipt of persons, by means of the threat or use of force or other forms of coercion, of abduction, of fraud, of deception, of the abuse of power or of a position of vulnerability or of the giving or receiving of payments or benefits to achieve the consent of a person having control over another person, for the purpose of exploitation (UNODC).Human Trafficking is a ontogenesis phenomenon. It is one of the fastest growing types of transnational crime worldwide. According to the US State departments 2009 Trafficking in Persons Report, at least 12.3 million adults and children kick the bucket victim to human traffickers every year (qtd in Haerens 17). Human Tra fficking occurs on every continent and has been booming. One reason for the increase in human trafficking is because of globalization. When competing in the global marketplace companies and corporations need cheap labor, and they dont care where it comes from. This in turn, causes the employment recruiters (the traffickers) to go after their prey (the trafficked).Human Trafficking can be thought of as a national security implication. One case of involuntary or forced servitude, standing alone, does not constitute a give away in national security. When viewed as a whole, in relation to human trafficking, this is considered as a major breach in National Security and should be treated as a serious crime. According to Rizer and Glaser the crime of trafficking in persons has recently been added... ...demic Search Complete. Web. 21 Mar. 2012.Haerens, Margaret. Human Trafficking. New York Greenhaven Press, 2012. Print.Human Trafficking. United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. UNODC, 20 12. Web. 4 April. 2012.Kloer, Amanda. Sex Trafficking and HIV/AIDS. Human Rights 37.2 (2010) 8-25. Academic Search Complete. Web. 24 Mar. 2012.Ojeda, Auriana. Slavery Today. New York Greenhaven Press, 2004. Print.Pati, Roza. States Positive Obligations with Respect to Human Trafficking The European judiciary of Human Rights Breaks New Ground in Rantsev V. Cyprus and Russia. Boston University International Law Journal 29.1 (2011) 79-142. Academic Search Complete. Web. 23 Mar. 2012.Rizer, Arthur and Sheri R. Glaser. Breach The National Security Implications of Human Trafficking. Widener Law Review 17.1 (2011) 69-94. Academic Search Complete. Web. 21 Mar. 2012.

Is Poetry Dead Essay

Yes, poetry is dead to more or less extent. Poetry in the classical sense is dead anyway, but at that place is still poetry in todays society. We may not look at it in the same way we did years ago because it has changed. We as a society do not take the era to select as we once did, to understand and enjoy literary text. I agree with Wexlers statements we have become unoccupied and lack the knowledge, commitment, and patience to understand and enjoy poetry. I myself do not understand poetry and do not want to take the time to strike enough of it to understand it.According to Wexler It is difficult to speak up a world without movies, plays, novels and music, but a world without poems doesnt have to be imagined. It is difficult to imagine such a thing but if we look closely we might find poetry in all of those places. Todays society is a fast-paced one and the entertainers have adapted to this way of life. They make novels into short stories on film, leaving out critical p cr afts in the novel, to appease our appetites for sport on a tight schedule. My interest waned, writes Wexler.On the surface, I suppose it was because I had other interests that demanded my time and attention I got married, had children, pursued my career, bought a house. With apologies to Frost, I began to find more relevance in articles about interest rates than essays on the sprung rhythm of Hopkins. With the computer age comes less time to sit and read for pure entertainment. There are video games, internet and such that replace the enjoyment of a good book. People do not sit and demonstrate a good book as they once did we discuss the latest movie or play instead, because we feel that these things take up less of our time than reading.I myself only read when I need to and even then I usually skim through to get the highlights. But as to the art of poetry being dead all together as Wexlers states I disagree. We can find poetry everywhere if we look. Look at some of the modern mu sic of todays society it is there form of poetry. According to Kay Day, I have a theory about that, one that rests on the incident that poetry has splintered into a number of different factions. There is poetry for the page, a type of poetry that appeals to those who enjoy scholarship and intellectual challenges.Then theres slam poetry, popular among youth, that relies on thumping rhythm and aggressive rhyme. Formal poets espouse rhythm and meter based on traditional forms such as the sonnet. Personal poetry, also known as journal poetry, serves up stockroom emotions in a variety of forms, and this poetry usually reflects the writers emotional state in a familiar way. I agree with this statement the world has changed and evolved to view poetry in many different lights. virtually food for thought, in doing research I also found a couple of articles that I found interesting and another reason that poetry could not be dead.Victor Infante, If Wexler had made one iota of effort, hed h ave noticed a few things like thousands upon thousands of people attending upstart poetry festivals in locales as diverse as Orange County, California, and Austin, Texas Or the 10,000 people who attend the National Poetry Slam Finals annually Or the fact that poetry sales have been rising for years now, even through the bad economy. Poetry has actually transformed over the years, and its quite viable that Wexler has missed the boat. So, Bruce, heres the crash course Poetry is no longer insular its a living, growing, vibrant art form.Poetry is no longer the province of the white middle class its been embraced by youths and minorities. Poetry is not uncool why else would teenage black kids in upcountry cities so proudly proclaim themselves poets? Justin Barrett, We have done away with the oral tradition and our culture morphed into a televised tradition. Poetry doesnt work well in the televised world, and it all but disappeared. But, with the advent and spread of the internet, p oetry is once again given the space to flourish.As of right this second, Googling the word poetry yields 19,700,000 separate hits. whole works Cited Day, Kay. Why Poetry First publication, Uncommon Ground, at Jacksonville. com, the Florida Times-Union Net site, July 15, 2003 http//kayday. com/why_poetry. htm Infante, Victor. Once Again, Poetry Is Dead? It must be true, because Newsweek said it 2004-2005 Atlanticrock. com http//www. atlanticrock. com/OpenMic001. html Barrett, Justin. Poetry Isnt Cool http//www. myfavoritebullet. com/ESSAY_barrett_POETRY_isnt_COOL. html.

A Brief History of the Cheesecake Factory Essay

The Cheesecake Factory was founded by Oscar and Evelyn Overton. Evelyn first decided to open a business after qualification a cheesecake for her husbands employer in 1949. Evelyn open a sm whole cheesecake shop in Detroit, Michigan, in the late 1950s, save later gave it up in order to raise her two children. She continued to supply cakes to several local eating houses through a kitchen in her basement. In 1972, Oscar and Evelyn Overton moved to the Woodland Hills ara of Los Angeles where they opened a wholesale bakery in which they produced cheesecakes and another(prenominal) desserts for local estaurants.In 1983, the Overtons opened a second eating house in Marina del Rey. By 1987 the Beverly Hills location had spread out into a 78-seat restaurant and was experiencing great financial success. This led to the opening of a third, larger location in Redondo Beach, which was eventually renovated into a 300-seat, 21 ,OOO squ be tooshie location. By the end of the 1980s, The Che esecake Factorys one-page visiting card had expanded and the restaurant offered additional fast- intellectual nourishment and short-order items. On January 25, 2011, the familiarity expanded into the Middle East in a partnership ith Kuwaiti retail franchising keep association M.H. Alshaya Co.. The 300-seat restaurant opened on August 16, 2012, at the Dubai substance. This is the first location for The Cheesecake Factory outside of the unite States. As of March 4, 2013, the Cheesecake Factory Inc. has four restaurants operating in the Middle East, one being located at the Dubai Mall and another at the Mall of the Emirates (both in the UAE), the third in The Avenues Mall, Kuwait, and the fourth in Beirut. 6 Plaza Las Americas in San Juan, Puerto Rico opened its first Cheesecake Factory in the Caribbean on August 28, 2013 go with Mission Statement Mission To create an environment where absolute guest satisfaction is our highest propriety Vision Through a shared commitment to exce llence, we are dedicated to the uncompromising quality of our food, aid, bulk and profit, while taking exceptional care of our guests and staff, we will continuously strive to surpass our own accomplishments and be recognized as a leader in our industry David Overton Chairman and gaffer executive military officer David Overton has served as our Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer since our incorporation in February, 1992.He co-founded the ships partnership with his parents, Evelyn and Oscar Overton. Mr. Overton crea ed t the Companys namesake restaurant and opened the first The Cheesecake Factory restaurant in 1978 in Beverly Hills, California. He grew The Cheesecake Factory into a national chain and created two other concepts, Grand Lux Cafe and RockSugar Pan Asian Kitchen. Under Mr. Overtons leadership, the Companys revenues increased to $1. 8 billion in 2011, with The Cheesecake Factory leading the casual dining industry in average annual sales per restaurant of $10. 2 million. Mr.Overtons professional honors include the International Foodservice Manufacturers Association Silver Plate Award, recognizing the most outstanding and innovative talent in foodservice operations the Executive of the Year Award from Restaurants & Institutions Magazine and the MenuMasters Hall of Fame Award from Nations Restaurant News, for his outstanding contributions to menu design and foodservice research and development, among many others. In 2012, Mr. Overton was named enterpriser of the Year in the Food Services category for the Los Angeles region by Ernst Young. This honor recognizes Mr.Overton for his demonstrated excellence and extraordinary success in innovation, performance and person-to-person commitment to The Cheesecake Factory and the communities our restaurants serve. David M. Gordon PresidentDavid Gordon was appointed President in February 2013. Mr. Gordon Joined our Company in 1993 as a Manager and during his 20 years with The Cheesecake Fac tory, he held the positions of Chief Operating Officer, Regional wrong-doing President, Area Director of Operations and world-wide Manager. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for the California Restaurant Association. W. Douglas BennExecutive misdeed President and Chief Financial OfficerW. Douglas Benn was appointed Chief Financial Officer in January 2009. Mr. Benn is a veteran of the restaurant industry having spent more than 20 years in management roles with restaurant companies. He most recently served as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of high-minded Hospitality International, which owned LongHorn Steakhouse and The Capital Grille prior to the companys sale to Darden Restaurants in October 2007. During his ten years with RARE, Mr. Benn helped grow the company to over 300 units and over $1 billion in nnual revenues.Debby R. Zurzolo Executive Vice President, writing table and General Counsel Debby Zurzolo was appointed Executive Vice President, Secretary and General Counsel in declination 2003. Ms. Zurzolo Joined our Company as Senior Vice President and General Counsel in April 1999. From 1982 until Joining the Company, she near law at Greenberg Glusker Fields Claman & Machtinger LLP in Los Angeles, California. As a partner with that firm, Ms. Zurzolo represented our Company on various real estate matters and negotiated several of our restaurant leases. S Bytuglin President, The Cheesecake FactoryBakery Incorporated Max Byfuglin was appointed President of our bakery subsidiary in January 2006. He previously served as Executive Vice President of The Cheesecake Factory Bakery Incorporated. Mr. Byfuglin Joined our bakery operations in 1982 and worked closely with our founders, serving in nearly every capacity in our bakery over the past 20 years. Joshua Spears General manager at dolphin mall location, been with the company for 20 years, started as a server/bartender, in Las Vegas Nevada, has a wife and 4 kids, currently do esnt have any plans to move anywhere but always up to the change disco biscuit Kaytes Assistant General Manager, been with the company with 20 years, previously worked at 8 different locations, started as a server/bartender, single so always up to any change, currently my interenship supervisor. Gilberto Rodriguez Server, its way out to be 1 year that I been with the company on November 10, currently a server, I will finish school on December so my plans are to find a manager Job after that, previously worked at olive garden and BJs as a assist manager, certified trainer, bartender and server. Location of the property Address 11401 NW 12th st, Miami, FL 33172Description The Cheesecake Factory serves much more than scarce cheesecake The Cheesecake Factory is a unique, upscale casual dining restaurant offering more than 200 menu selections including appetizers, pizza, pasta, seafood, steaks, salads, sandwiches and more. The menu to a fault features specialty dishes like Chicken Mad eira, Miso Salmon, Cajun Jambalaya Pasta and The Factory Burger. economize room for dessert Try one of The Cheesecake Factorys 50 delicious cheesecakes and desserts such as their White Chocolate Raspberry Truffle Cheesecake or their Godiva Chocolate Cheesecake, with a cappuccino or espresso.Products Menu items include appetizers, cheesecake, pizza, pasta, salads, sandwiches, seafood, steaks and more Competition The primary disputation for the cheesecake factory at dolphin mall will be Texas de Brazil, mainly because its across and its the only other fine dinning restaurant at dolphin mall, I privately would not consider pf changs directly competition because that is a completely ditterent style ot t and its not directly across the cheesecake building, honestly there is no directly competition to cheesecake at dolphin mall, but there is a restaurant called bJs brewer house that is relatively close and they have a retty similar menu to ours, this will be the only director competit or we will have in the zone. -Texas de Brazil. -Pf Changs. -BJs Brewer house. Outside dolphin mall the Cheesecake Factorys top competitors are Brinker International, OSI Restaurant Partners, Inc. , and Dine Equity, Inc. Brinker International is a U. S. found company, with over1800 restaurants in 24 countries and has a presence in the Middle East already. Subsidiaries include long peppers, Romanos Macaroni Grill, Maggiands Little Italy and On the Border Mexican Cantina and Grill. contradictory The Cheesecake Factory, Brinker International keeps its company active through cquisitions and partnerships for restaurant locations. A poorly performing Bennigans restaurant might become a new Chilis restaurant. Brinkers does not appear to be operating at a level of stability across its subsidiaries, either. The most recent Datamonitorreport on the company highlights much selling off of their brands (Datamonitor, 2010).The constant activity leads one to believe the company is less viable th an its competitors in spite of staggering revenues and operating wampum Company Culture The Cheesecake Factory created the upscale casual dining segment in 1978 with the pening of our first restaurant in Beverly Hills, CA. And even with over 160 restaurant locations now in the U. S. , were Just as original today as we were when we first opened In addition to The Cheesecake Factory restaurants, the company also operates two bakery production facilities that produce over 60 varieties of quality cheesecakes and other baked products. We know that outstanding people make it all happen. to each one individuals efforts and skills are necessary to the success of our company as a whole.As a staff member, we will invite you to share our company ission, To Create an Environment Where Absolute Guest Satisfaction is our Highest Priority. And our company values will guide your daily actions and ensure that the work environment and company culture is filled with memorable moments. Manager Style There are a few types of manager styles, I think Adam is the perfect manager, he has a perfect balance for everything, here is a perfect description of him The Perfect Manager This manager is popular with both staff and guests. This manager whole shebang hard to create solid relationships with staff members without becoming too close. Understands the disputes of the daily show of making sure that all the parts come together mightily to insure a quality guest experience.Master of the task related issues and can get them done in a quarter of the time of other managers. This management type keeps a light demeanor on the tloor while at the same time working to insure staff compliance to service standards and quality presentation of the food. Has a great knowledge of regulars and would be regulars and spends time cultivating relationships with the guests in order to insure their return visit. This anager can operate almost respectively because their goals are aligned with the company objectives and directives from senior management. Perfect managers can become frustrated when the demands of the Job exceed their ability to complete the objectives in a seasonably manner.This can cause frustration for the manager and periods of unproductive performance. As a manager on a daily basis, it is tough to work long hours and cover innumerable problems without having it affect the quality of your work. You try to do the best you can and work to make the restaurant the best that it can be. Sometimes you sacrifice your personal well-being for the sake of the Job. Managers as a rule have a hard time separating themselves from what they do. A good management style of any contour begins with a manager that can take care of their emotional and physical needs outside the restaurant. They are emotionally healthy and happy with a domineering attitude toward the Job and people they work with.Operational Controls At every Cheesecake Factory restaurant, a kitchen manager is stati oned at the counter where the food comes off the line, and he rates the food on a scale of one to en. A nine is near-perfect. An eight requires one or two corrections before going out to a guest. A seven needs three. A six is unacceptable and has to be redone. The whole chain restaurant industry not Just the Cheesecake Factory uses an interesting system for minimizing food waste, which can easily become a burdensome cost The chain-restaurant industry has produced a field of computer analytics cognise as guest forecasting. We have forecasting models based on historical datathe trend of the past six weeks and also the trend of the previous year, Adam told me. The predictability of the business has become astounding. The company has even learned how to make adjustments for the weather or for scheduled events like playoff games that keep people at home.The Cheesecake Factorys ability to add menu items across its restaurants is similarly impressive. The company rolls out a new menu eve ry six months that can feature upward of a dozen new items. Regional and kitchen managers head to California for intense training that shows them not Just how to make the new dishes but how to train others digest at the restaurants in their region. After observing the whole process, its rate of successful and scaled innovation, Gawande writes, would be enviable in medicine, where innovations commonly spread at a glacial pace. Strengths and weaknesses Their strengths include award winning customer service, an interactive website, fantastic desserts and an extensive menu of over 200items that evolves every six months to keep it fresh and enkindle to customers. A significant opportunity in moving into an emerging market such as the unite Arab Emirates is the prospect for increased revenue and profits for a restaurant of this caliber entering in this new arket. One aspect that distinguished The Cheesecake Factory is how they specialized on their dessert product line and thus built and drink product lines around it. By making abase, the company was able to add items and test recipes for success.Now they have a solid food line that is changed every six months to ensure the customers are satisfied. Diversity also ensures return visits because people want to try something new each time it prevents people from getting bored with the food . When updating their menu, the Cheesecake Factory is also indful of health-conscious customers and has a very high-quality line of health- conscious foods Weaknesses The Cheesecake Factory must(prenominal) consider how the companys values, ideals, vision admission, and goals will align with the new country. Cultural issues can be a major challenge when moving into a new country.The company must be 100% prepared to take on the culture, the cuisine, and any other conflicts such as dress codes or dietary customs. ome countries such as the United Arab Emirates older generations may be slow to embrace change or new cultures they may be opposed to new restaurants or ven new menu items at a restaurant. This could pose a problem for the constant menu changes The Cheesecake Factory offers. The differences in tastes, beliefs and culture could potentially be a major challenge for this restaurant moving to the Middle East. The lack of nutritional information may also be problematic for this region, as people in different areas are sensitive to different foods and what are in the foods needs to be known as well as the caloric content of the food. As with the United States, all developed countries have become more aware of what they are eating and their health in general

Biblical Women in Popular Culture

In todays culture where individualism is emphasized and especially that women are encouraged to assume follow roles as men would normally take, two or three decades ago, it is genuinely difficult to see eye to eye with how women are portrayed in the Bible during scriptural times. Girl power or women empowerment is the rule of the day for women nowadays. Although, of course, all women as all men have the right to lead in the perceive that they have the same intrinsic capacity to influence, the role of leadership has been blown out of proportion by feminist groups as they apply it to women.The result of this oer blown leadership role of women has been the constant battle between members of opposite sexes in many significant areas deep down society. It has affected the homes, government and non-government institutions, down to the smallest entity that has within its membership men and women. The aim of this paper is to draw a comparison between scriptural projection of women (as por trayed in the Bible and the movie one Night With The King) and todays universal cultures endeavour to depict the function of women (McMurray, 2007).While at the moment, the common cry of women is equality to some(prenominal) genders as it is reflected in womens roles in the family, in public places, and the obliteration of the stereotyped designation of females in past times decades which until now has its bearing in the minds of the oecumenic public the consequent outcome of this campaign is prevalent in almost every area where function is concerned. In the late 1960s, womens movement began to blossom.It was emotional by the then sentiment of repulsion to the tasks being typecasted among women. Womens movement of the 60s aimed to question the menial duties relegated to women such as getting married, becoming a woman of the house and afterwards attending to household chores (including raising children), and when outside opportunity comes for them to work, theyre consigned to a nswering phones, photocopying, etc (Encarta, 2006). The scenery has been changed and is no longer the same as in the past 30 or 40 years.The typical woman today is one that is among the operative class no longer confined to house premises, but working and providing as frequently as her male counterparts. She can be the manager or an executive of an established firm where most of the male employees are to a lower place her command. Equality in roles has now been achieved. Whereas this status and depiction of women in itself is not outright negative, the undercurrent force that it has created is the programming of the minds of todays women to be wicked to the biblical description of their role as they are teamed with men.Instead of seeing male and female partnership as complimentary to both sexes, the danger of too much emphasis on equality especially when it is defined merely in domestic and public functions is the threat that masculinity poses to womanhood. It is good for women to fight for their basic equal rights with men as members of this global community, but if it results in certain im eternal rests because the aim has become the dethronement of the opposite gender, then the battle for equality has now dour into fight for superiority of the female sex.Biblical Women in Biblical Text The movie One Night with the King has successfully showed to modern world the right balance when it comes to understanding the womans role. In the film, the first of these lessons on womanhood could be derived from the poser of fairy Vashti, King Xerxes dethroned fay. Vashtis removal as Queen was hastened by her attitude towards her King as she turned down King Xerxes request to show her beauty to the people and the officials (Esther 111, NKJV The Holy Bible 1982).At the very outset of this biblical narrative, there was already a sort of struggle as to whether the King should be obeyed in whatever demands he make or not. The whole picture of the Persian Kingdoms cele bration included not only King Xerxes feasting with people and officials but also Queen Vashtis party which she arranged for the women in the royal palace (Ibid). In biblical times, kings command absolute obedience to their subjects. They could do everything at whim nevertheless the execution of their citizens.However, to what extent should Queen Vashti needed to show her beauty to the people at the Kings bidding, one cannot determine for sure. If it meant the exposure of the beauty of her tender body before the expectant public, it was wise and courageous for her to refuse point if it was a direct violation of the royal protocol. She was submissive to the King until this floor of their relationship. Esther, however, as she is the main protagonist in the story, much of the lessons on women can be extracted from her lifes example. The first is her courage to risk her life for others.When she was finally increase to the high position of a Queen, she did not forget but rather rema ined committed to the preservation and welfare of her people. Until today, this virtue of selfless courage is admired in the world. It is one of the sought after virtues of leadership which unfortunately is lacking in many of those occupying leadership positions. The courage that the life of Esther showed in the story was not single-handed courage which resulted from a stubborn will. It was a courage constantly tempered by another life, the life of her cousin and mentor, Mordecai.She allowed herself to be constantly advised and influenced by the one who helped her reached her current high position. She remained as humble as she was in spite of the great changes and promotion that happened to her. She did not forget where she came from and did not abandon her people. It was Esthers submissive attitude that brought her to the high position of being Queen to King Xerxes in stead of Vashti. Contrary to what is being promoted today by our culture, Esther continued liveliness her life (e ven as Queen) in a responsible manner.It is the dream of many young women today to wade their way through life to reach the point where there will be no one to hold them accountable anymore or have somebody to check them. Example after example of young celebrities have been the focus of media and news headlines that project the common outcry of many which hailed them to be the representations of American dream. Most of these modern-day models are strong-willed, carefree, and want to accept that life can be lived irresponsibly with no accountability. Esthers example, on the other hand, stands in stark contrast to common perception of women in popular culture.Effects of Non-Biblical Portrayal of Womanhood Because of this non-biblical depicting of women in our society, a lot of damaged has been inflicted on the minds of the majority of people. For one thing, the current trend of thinking is resistant to the Biblical teachings regarding women. The common minds have been preconditioned to reject and to not understand the Biblical ideals of what females should be. As a result, when femininity is the question, people would rather look to non-biblical sources as trust than the Bible.Non-biblical portrayal of women has pre-programmed people to reject biblical standards. When that happens, society begins to have problems because the standards have become different. Its negative effects include the entertainment of a different considerate of criteria by which we look at what qualities should our average women possess. This is reflected in the womens attempt to pursue what are not beneficial to them, simply because they have adopted rules or guidelines that are to them may put them in better position in this very competitive society.Other things that are currently occurring include the perversion of the role that women typify before the eyes of the greater public. Roles that actually begin to evolve and never to bring the women to healthier assessment of themselves b ut either a view that makes them as simply objects of perversions or whimsical creation of a role that is not only sickening but also in reality, harder than the real, and more biblical portrayal of women.Femininity then, is very important to be defined and assessed according to real thing the biblical benchmarks. Women will begin to see themselves the way God sees them then. As partners in the fulfilment of Gods grand design and when women start to accept the roles as defined by the bible, they then develop into healthy organisms capable of even settling into times when to be in the background is still very acceptable. Reference1. Encarta Dictionary 2006. (DVD) 2. Maxwell, John, 2000. Commentary on Esther. P. 600. The Maxwell Leadership Bible. 3. McMurray, Sheri. One nighttime with the King review. Christian Spotlight. Accessed Sept. 24, 2007. 3. New King James Version, 2000. Maxwell Leadership Bible. Maxwell Motivation , Inc. (Thomas Nelson Publishing).

John and Mable Ringling Review

China Now De Voss Banners Expressive Bodies Works from the Ringing Permanent Collection and Appalachia LISA. Some of the artwork displayed here are created by major(ip) artists like Diego Veilsqueeze, II Greece, Anthony van Deck, Paolo Everyone, Giovanni Battista Topple, Thomas Johannesburg, and Peter Paul Rueben. The collections that this museum illustrates provide particular themes and highlight particular time periods. The most celebrated items minify under the collection of European and American Art.However, according to the museum, the collections are ever changing and not both pieces are available for viewing at all times. The Ringing museum is built around the styles of classical, medieval, renaissance, and baroque, and features rare antiquities as well as creations from various old and modern artists. Because museum collections and exhibitions display a variety of ethnic heritages and integrate multicultural media, they allow society to understand history and how art has c hanged as well as learn more or less culture diversity.It is important to study the creativity of different periods because the rough time, mans view of the world and human existence has changed. Obtaining information on the artistic legacy of he past gives knowledge and value about the complexity of art and its relationship with history, religion, philosophy, and sociology. Furthermore, preserving creative works of art in museums also display the connections of different cultures and how they influence one another, changing, and shaping art into what it is today. Particularly, an artist known by the name Rueben was a master of Renaissance, Flemish, and churrigueresque style.His art became famous in a time period known as the Baroque Period which occurred through the sass and sass. In one of his characterizations, The Triumph of Divine Love, the baroque heartsickness are obvious with the use of vivid color, physicality, and overlapping figures. This painting is one of many, foun d in the premier collection Of European and American Art featured in the Ringing museum. Currently of Rueben, there is The Triumph of the service Series, which is a set of cartoons for tapestries that was commissioned by Isabella Clara Eugenia in 1625.Isabella was a member of the royal Spanish family and wanted Rueben to paint 21 tapestries for her, 1 1 consisting of oil paintings on canvas so she could hang them in her palace. This series relates to the elaboration of the Eucharist, explores scenes from the lives of the saints, and promotes the beliefs held by the Counter-Reformation throughout Europe. Providing that, Martin Luther set off a movement called the Protestant Reformation because of his criticisms of the Catholic Church.As a result of this, the church service attempted to clean up the corruption and clarify its teachings and beliefs. By doing so, the Counter-Reformation was established which then led to the Council of Trend. concord to Brett and Kate McKay, The Counc il of Trend declared that art should be used to explain principles by Ewing direct, emotionally persuasive, and powerfully designed to fire the spiritual imagination and inspire the watchman to greater piety (n. P. ). Moving on, this section of the paper will discuss two particular pieces in The Triumph of the Eucharist series.The first work of art is The intravenous feeding Evangelists. Related to the painting discussed in the following paragraph, this painting represents figures in motion. Furthermore, to gain an understanding of this painting and the time period around it, it is imperative to understand that the Catholic Church believed bread and wine represented Christi body and blood. In the painting to the far left is Saint Luke with his symbol, the ox. This beast symbolizes turn over because in the beginning of his Gospel, is the sacrifice of Zachary.Next to Luke is Saint Mark, featured retentivity his Gospel under his arm and next to him, the lion that represents the res urrection of Christ. Saint Matthew in the green cloth and the angel are in the center of the piece where the angel points towards heaven, like Saint Thomas Aquinas in The Defenders of the Eucharist. To the far right is Saint John who appears to be the youngest of the group, and is looking up towards the eagle. His mannerism is supposed to capture his vision of the apocalypse. The cup he is belongings in his hand with the snake refers to poison that John drank, in order to turn off his faith.While in the bottom of the painting are various symbolic objects that relate to the Gospels such as the cockleshell, cornucopia of fruit, and the dolphin. The second painting is The Defenders of the Eucharist do in 1625 by Rueben was done with oil on canvas. In this companion piece to The Four Evangelists, Rueben incorporated six doctors and a woman, all figures from early church history. On the far right is Saint Jerome dressed in a red robe, eating his translation of the Bible into Latin bec ause that is what he is famous for.In bm of Jerome is a great, German philosophical figure named Norte, dressed in a cream colored robe. Then, in the center stands the Dominican monk, Saint Thomas Aquinas, holding a book of his writings and pointing towards heaven this gesture can be compared to Saint Matthews in The Four Evangelists. While next to Saint Thomas, is Saint Clare who is seen holding a great monstrance. It is important to understand that women were not allowed to touch the monstrance. Furthermore, the features of Saint Clare are actually those of Isabella, the woman paying for the painting.

Bullying In the Schools

In the past, these actions could be better controlled because they were limited to face-to-face interactions. In recent years, this passe conflict has matched the pace of technological evolutions making it more dangerous and harder to contain. Cell phones, social media sites, chat rooms, and other forms of technology have allowed determent to expand into cyberspace. This sunrise(prenominal) form of bullying is known as accessibility. The word bully can be traced back as far as the sasss (Hindu & Patching, 2009). In its most basic form, bullying involves two people, a bully or intimidator and a victim.The bully abuses the victim through physical, verbal, or other means in order to gain a sense of superiority or power. These actions may be direct (I. E. Hitting, verbally assaulting face-to-face, etc. ) or indirect (I. E. Rumors, gossip). There is no clear cut campaign why children become a bully, but some evidence shows that they tend to be tangled in alcohol consumption and smok ing, have poorer academic records than involved students, display a solid need for dominance, and show little empathy for their victims (Roberts & Imports, 2000).Bullying may be means of increasing ones own social status (Pipelining, 2001). A strong correlation appears to exist between bullying other students during the school years and experiencing legal or criminal troubles as adults (Pigskin, 2002). Bullying tends to peak in substance school because this is when kids start to physically develop and become more aware of their differences (Pomeranian Beer, 2013). Cliques begin to take shape and a social system develops that lays heavily on the desire of adolescents to fit in.Bullying usually occurs in the presence of peers, who can adopt a variety of roles, such as remaining neutral during a bullying incident, assisting and encouraging the bully, or aiding or consoling the victim (unfortunately the latter role is rarely adopted by children). The action of peers in the vicinity of bullying incidents typically support the bullying behavior rather than stop it (Sutton & Smith, 1999). Most children do not want to intervene, being afraid they might be the next take aim Pigskin, 2002).The impact of being bullied can perish a devastating affect lasting into adulthood. Children and adolescents being bullied tend to have lower academic grades and low self-esteem. The positive scones ounces are suicidal thoughts or thoughts of violent revenge. While grade school children tend to rely on parents and teachers for support, junior and high school children tend to leave them out and rely more of the support of their friends (Subtotals, 180). This makes it especially difficult to intervene, not knowing here is such an incident. Usually intervention comes too later when a child has decided to take his/her own life or take a weapon to school to prove they are a victim no more. Media attention has made this epidemic a national crisis. Parents and school officials are calli ng for law-makers to take action to deter or punish bullying. In order to control and prevent this in schools or in cyberspace, bullying should first be acknowledged as a significant and pervasive problem, and secondly school-based intervention programs need to be developed.

Why a President Must Persuade

According to Richard E. Neustadt, The situation of the American president is to take. I am going to crumble this statement in my essay, by answering why a president must persuade, looking at the relationship between the president and judicature, giving examples of when suasion has worked and when it hasnt, focusing on other ways the president can influence and fin onlyy ending with a conclusion. Firstly, why is it important for the president to persuade? The power to persuade is seen as an informal power as it is not clearly expressed in the constitution.It is important as presidents need to persuade other branches of government to influence policy they even birth to do this in their own branch (the executive) e. g. influencing cabinet secretaries. Due to all the branches of government, it means that power is dispersed and operose in different places this can make it complex for the president to exert his own influence especially if there are opponents. Without the support o f the Senate or the accommodate of Representatives the president has only slight power, due to the checks and balances imposed on the president, power is reduced.Persuasion needs to take place in order to influence all sectors of the government so they can facilitate their policies, this supports the conception that the power of the American president is to persuade. Where has persuasion worked? When Bush was justifying the Iraq war, Colin Powell spoke in his favour and he furthered bi-partisanship with Democrats, who was the opposing party at the time. By showing this alliance, it meant that policies would have no problem going through Congress (reducing deadlock), this supports Neustadt.Where persuasion has not worked? An example was when President Eisenhower failed to persuade a governor. At the time were African-American students were not allowed in a school, which lead to a Supreme Court case (Brown vs. The Board of Education) and it resulted to the students being allowed to attend. Sadly, the governor did not agree and so Eisenhower had a meeting with him and failed to persuade him to allow them to attend, this showed that Eisenhower was not even good at persuading those in his own government, showing he was a weak president.If persuasion is not acquired, it means that power is reduced, which reflects how the president is portrayed. For the president to be persuasive they must be charismatic and have the cleverness to influence the voters and those who can make their legislative goals happen. If a president has the ability to influence then it shows great leadership. Neustadt focuses on three traits a president must have to be successful having the power to persuade, a good professional reputation and public prestige, with all these components put together they would be seen as a strong president.Professional representation, the term Neustadt used was Washingtonians who are people in government (governors, military leaders, congress etc). The better the reputation of the president, the easier they will find it to negotiate, cover legislation and implement policy. I mentioned earlier that power is dispersed everywhere due to the separation of powers, meaning that it could be possible that someone may have great power and influence other than the president, which can be a problem for the president this means he must always be advised of them.

Ethical Analysis of Gumdrop Northern

At the conclusion of this audit, the following honourable Issues were identified emergence to International law of nature and treaties by exporting manufactured landmines to Afghanistan and Iran use of insufficient materials used to construct body armor disclosing Information from the military that would prevent Injuries and the formulated plan to send taboo nonices under the actor Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act, and severing ties to the collective bargaining agreement which resulted in 100+ employees out of work.Despite the several issues that fix been identified, we argon optimistic that we disregard implement events that can correct these incidents and prevent future issues from happening. Due to the magnitude of the issues that were found it is essential to get a basic intellect of line of work in morality. Ethics can be perceived differently among people because it has several nuances. According to Frederica, Farrell and Farrell, The American Heritage Dictionary defines ethics as, The learning of the general nature of morals and of specific moral choices, moral philosophy, and the rules or standards governing the conduct of the members of a profession. (p. 7). This Is a good starting point to admirer us further understand the importance of honorable compliance. For the take of this memorandum, the definition that pull up stakes be used is the principles, values, and standards that businesses should adhere to, to ensure it is acting within honest standards. Furthermore, studying ethics in business is very pregnant because honorable misconduct is a considerable concern in business throughout the world. My ethics charge and I shoot referenced this definition and statement through the duration of our audit, and is the foundation of our findings.Now that we have discussed the definition and importance of ethics in business, we will discuss ACH ethical Issue that was discovered in Gumdrop Northerner operations. After each ethi cal Issue has been addressed, we will discuss electric potential solutions and our reasoning for the betterment In your short and foresighted-term goals. Ethical Issue 1 Ignorance to International Law and Treaties by exporting manufactured landmines to Afghanistan and Iran. This is a very dynamic issue because in that respect is conflict of interest.This conflicts with your parent alliance, the Department of Defense because you are a long-term military contractor that manufactures munitions, body armor and armored vehicles for the coupled States military. The U. S. Litany is currently trash in a decade-long war in the Middle East, and landmines have been leafy vegetable amongst the fatalities since the beginning of the war. Improvised volatile devices ( full treatment) have continued to be the number genius killer of United States armed forces in Afghanistan, and 60 percent of all combat- related deaths in 2011 alone were caused by Deeds (Moral, 2011).Deeds are the most co mmon method used by insurgent groups and rebels who wage non-traditional warfare, and are designed to kill or cause serious bodily harm. The conflict of interest that my committee and I are most concerned with is the simple fact that you are opposed to supply effective body armor to the coalition forces to protect them from explosive blasts, but you are also supplying the enemy with the essential tools that cause these aforementioned explosive blasts.This conflict of interest not only violates international law and treaty, but you are potentially responsible for deaths of render personnel serving in the armed forces. It is your responsibility to behave ethically, and this has not happened by your ignorance to the law, and the endangerment you have caused to uniformed personnel. In addition, the landmines hat you sell to the Taliban and Iranian government are defective, and many of who attempted to plant the mines was killed in the process due to the faulty switches.It should also b e noted that many of these deaths were children and soldiers of each respective country. This ignorance on every angle is unethical by all counts. The basis of this ethical issue can have a wide range of effects legally, and can have severe repercussions on corporate stakeholders. The legal effects are very straightforward. The company can potentially be taken to court to file the violation of international law, and the consequences can be severe.For example, Department of Justice lawyers are rumored to be involved where families of hurt or killed service members can consult attorneys to investigate Gumdrop Northerner contributions. Furthermore, the stakeholders are also potentially at risk. Anyone who has a stake or claim in your business can be directly affected because of your negligence to law, and this can damage your reputation, which is important in keeping your contract with the Department of Defense. In addition, it can be the future of your company.Ethical Issue 2 The Us e of Substandard Materials Used in the Companys Manufacturing and Failure to Disclose to Stakeholders It has also been brought to our attention that Gumdrop Northern has utilized substandard materials in their manufacturing. Given the nature of your business, the United States military needs state of the art body armor that has the sophistication to stop penetrating shrapnel aimed for the body. The use of substandard materials is inconceivable because the safety of our soldiers is paramount in todays war.The body armor is the primary mode of protection that protects Americas sons and daughters, and the armor you are providing the U. S. Litany does not protect them to Afghanistan and Iran. The substandard material is not only limited to the personnel body armor, but it also is connected to the armored vehicles used to transport military personnel throughout the theater. It has been revealed that there is a thin sheet of steel on the underside of the vehicle that makes them extremely vulnerable to improvised explosive device explosions.This is alarming because, as previously mentioned, Deeds are among the chief causes of death of soldiers. You have structured a vehicle that is protective on the sides and top, but have ignored arguably the most important part of up-armored vehicles used in the Middle East. This also leads to the negligence of the company to go against this information to its primary and secondary stakeholders, and failure to understand the stakeholder orientation. The failure to disclose information can cause the rescission of an agreement.In your case, the Department of Defense can void the agreement with your company and also pursue a money settlement. Also, the purpose of the stakeholder orientation is for you to understand and address the demands of a stakeholder. The U. S. Litany is your primary stakeholder and you have failed to meet their demands and standards by using substandard materials and failing to disclose this information to the m. It is your responsibility on with other top managers in Gumdrop to act in a responsible manner by providing truthful information to all stakeholders.We have found in our audit that you have failed in this field, and you have not complied with ethical standards. Ethical Issue 3 The formulated plan to send out notices under the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act, and severing ties to the collective arraigning agreement, which resulted in 100+ employees out of work. We have found that your actions under the WARN Act are wholly legal because you have acted within all the guidelines underlined in the act. Also, your plan to file for bankruptcy to reject the collective bargaining agreement is another area of concern.However, we swear it is unethical to do so because of the circumstances that you have found yourself in the aforementioned ethical issues. This issue is controversial because you are middling between the lines of ethical and legal issues. We believe that this is an unnecessary approach, and there are other venues to pursue to resolve the issues at hand. I believe you should place significant value on your shareholders because they are primarily responsible for the day-to-day operations and ensuring your company is bringing in profit.Therefore, you should treat your people right and you can accomplish this by boastful them a fair shot. If you trade seats at the table, it would seem unfair to dump them so quickly because they have families to feed, bills to pay and priorities to maintain so we hypothesise you should do the right thing and patron them in any way possible. The ethical issues hat we have identified are substantial and they can have serious potential effects on the reputation of your company and its future. With that said, we have outlined a detailed plan that we have formulated as the beat out for the business.Resolving the Ethical Issues All of the issues have been put on the table and addressing possible solu tions is statement of Gumdrop because this is where we believe you have failed. We suggest that a meeting is held by the room of Directors to re-tool the mission statement of Gumdrop Northern. When all of the issues are put on the table it helps to have all eye players there to innovative think of the direction the company wants to move in. For the first ethical issue, the resolution is quite simple.We believe that Gumdrop Northern should adhere to international law and treaty by severing your ties with Afghanistan and Iran. It doesnt make experience to supply the enemy with antipersonnel ammunition, and protect the individuals fighting the enemy. Although more than half of your profits derive from these clandestine operations, it is conflicting with your interest by protecting the United States military with your manufactured products. This relationship should be terminated, and it should tie into your companys mission statement.Furthermore, it is your moral and ethical responsib ility to report your shortcomings. I believe that showing integrity defines a company, and this can be the first step to repairing and strengthening your relationship with your stakeholders. It is also a great first step into repairing your corporate visualize. Moving on, the second ethical issue that we discovered is definitely a priority in addressing. The United States Military deserves the best protection because of their illnesses to volunteer their lives to fight for our freedom.Gumdrop Northern is using substandard materials when superior equipment should be used in preparing the body armor and armored vehicles. I think that the best solution to this problem is using the best equipment for sale to help protect the soldiers. I believe you should immediately recall all the body armor that has been issued, and rebuild the body armor that the soldiers use. This move is good for your image because it shows you have identified faults in your products, and will work relentlessly t o alter it to meet military standards.You are also doing yourself a favor by singing your primary stakeholder that there are issues with your product, which is something that you have failed to do so. In addition, you should also revamp the armored vehicles that you supply to the troops. This is the primary mode of the transportation for uniformed personnel, and ensuring the safest vehicle possible should be a priority. Gumdrop Northern should provide additional sheets of metal to the bottom of the vehicle to strengthen the most vulnerable part of the vehicle. Finally, the third ethical issue can be resolved by not doing any of it.It is our belief that you should take responsibility for your actions, and slowly repair your image. I believe that pickings care of your shareholders is important in business because they make sure your company is working. Therefore, the essential portion of this resolution is to own up to your mistakes and build on what you have. This solution shows eth ical responsibility, and this is the focal point of this memorandum. I previously mentioned that an essential part of this meeting is also to identify fiduciary duties of the honcho Executive Officer and the Chief Operation Officer.It is the ethical responsibilities of each of these managers to gain back the trust and confidence of the stakeholders (I. E. United States Military). This is the best alternative that is the best for the business considering the ethical issues that were identified and the potential circumstances that were discussed. It is the right thing to fixing your problems. By owning up to your mistakes it may damage your companys problems in the short-term, but you are strengthening your company in the long run.I believe the first couple of months will be difficult because of the backlash youll chive by showing your integrity, but with strength and perseverance, Gumdrop Northern can render to prominence. I also believe that part of repairing the company is imple menting an ethics committee and appointing an individual to act as the ethics officer. I believe this is essential because it would help prevent issues like the previously mentioned from happening in the future. It also will keep Gumdrop Northern in ethical compliance. Your company has fallen short in this area, and it should be a priority in your companys mission statement.

Eating Disorders: Symptoms, Signs, Causes Essay

What is an alimentation pain? Well, one of the m each definitions for an nourish disorder is any range of psychological disorders characterized by disturbed declare habits which include anorexia nervosa (AN), bulimia nervous (BN) and binge-alimentation disorder. (CITE). All eating disorders pee similar characteristics. This could be a fear of becoming fat, food, weight or calories. The reason wherefore I want to focus on this population is that eating disorders argon a significant job during the adolescent years affecting up to 5% of adolescent girls (Golden et al., 2003). manyone have a bun in the ovening from an eating disorder has a very unhealthy relationship with food that is prying into many areas of their everyday life history. An individual whitethorn eat little to no food, eat unreasonably massive amounts of food, be infatuated with thoughts of food or exercise, and have a distorted body image. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders fifth magne tic variation (DSM-V) recognizes four main eating disorders anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, and eating disorder not other than specified (EDNOS). (CITE DSM-5).The signs of an eating disorder allow alter and may include refusal to eat, extreme exercise, well-disposed withdrawal, self-induced purge or binge eating.Many families that have a family portion that suffers from an eating disorder also have an increased risk of depression, obesity, substance abuse or consuming too much food. People that suffer from eating disorders may struggle socially, physically and or mentally, there are also many symptoms and signs to envision for. (article 7)Causes of eating Disorders consume Disorders are complex disorders, influenced by a faade of factors. Thought the exact spend a penny of eating disorders is unknown, it is chiefly believed that a combination of biological, psychological and/or environmental ab designities contribute to the development of these illnesses. (Cite obligate 4)Biological FactorsWhen it comes to biological factors some include certain people may have irregular endocrine functions that increase their risk of developing eating disorders. Genetics (the tie between eating disorders and ones genes is still existence heavily researched, but we know that genetics is a part of the story). And lastly, there are nutritional deficiencies which is an inadequate supply of essential nutrients in diet resulting in malnutrition or disease. (Mayo Clinic)Psychological FactorsSome of the psychological factors or emotional health include people with a negative body image. They may have low self-esteem, perfectionism impulsive behavior and troubled relationships with friends and loved ones. (Article 4)Environmental FactorsEnvironmental factors or social factors that would contribute to the occurrence of eating disorders are dysfunctional family dynamic, professions and careers that promote being thin and weight passing, much(pre nominal)(prenominal)(prenominal) modeling. Aesthetically oriented sports, where an emphasis is placed on maintaining a lean body for enhanced performance. Family and childhood traumas childhood sexual abuse, severe trauma and cultural and/or peer pressure among friends and co-workers. (Article 6)Signs and Symptoms (CITIE Article)Symptoms may vary depending on the type of eating disorder. A man or a woman suffering from an eating disorder may reveal several signs and symptoms that are both the same and different.Anorexia NervosaAnorexia is possible life-threatening eating disorder characterized by an atypically low body weight, intense fear of gaining weight and one-sided knowledge of weight or manikin. People that suffer from anorexia use dangerous efforts to control their weight and shape, which often wittingly interferes with their lifestyle. Obsession with calories and fat contents of food or use other methods to lose weight such as having engaging in formalized eating pattern s, including, cutting food into tiny pieces, eating alone, and/or hiding food. (Cite article 5)Bulimia NervosaBulimia is a serious, theoretically life-threatening eating disorder. When you have bulimia, you have episodes of bingeing and purging that involve trace a lack of control oer your eating. Many people with bulimia also restrict their eating during the day, which often leads to more binge eating and purging (Cite article 3). During these episodes, bulimics typically eat a large amount of food in a short time, and then test to rid of the extra calories in an unhealthy way. Because of guilt, shame and an intense fear of weight gain from overeating, they may force vomiting (purging bulimia), exercise too much, or use other methods, such as laxatives, to furbish up rid of the calories (no purging bulimia). Even if you are bulimic, youre undoubtedly preoccupied with weight and body shape and may judge severely and harshly for self-perceived flaws. Bulimic may be at a normal wei ght or even a bit overweight. (Cite article 4)Binge-Eating DisorderWhen it comes to a binge-eating disorder, many regularly eat too much food (binge) and feel a lack of control over eating. Eating quickly or eat more food than intended, even when not hungry, and may continue eating even long after becoming uncomfortably full. After a binge, there may feeling of guilty, disgusted or ashamed by the behavior displayed and the amount of food eaten (Cite Article 2). Many will try to but do not try to compensate for this behavior with excessive exercise or purging, as someone with bulimia or anorexia might. Embarrassment can lead to eating alone to skin bingeing. A new round of bingeing usually occurs at least once a week. Many may be normal weight, overweight or obese (Cite article 1)TreatmentsTreatment of an eating disorder generally includes a team come out. The team typically includes medical providers, mental health providers and dietitians all with experience in eating disorders. Many of the treatments are based around your specific type of eating disorder. However, in general, it typically includes psychotherapy, nutrition education and medication thorough being either an outpatient, or inpatient and if your life is at risk the possibility of being hospitalized. (CITIE ARTICLE 2). mental hygiene, also known as talk therapy can friend learn how to replace unhealthy habits with healthy ones. Psychotherapy can also help to improve the relationships and moods. Psychotherapy can include both cognitive Behavioral therapy and Family Based Therapy. (Cite Article 3)Cognitive Behavioral TherapyCognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is applicable to all eating disorders but has been most intensively studied in the treatment of bulimia nervosa (BN). CBT is designed to alter abnormal attitudes about body shape and weight. (CITE ARTICLE 1) CBT is effective in reducing all core features of BN and shows good maintenance of therapeutic improvement.Family Based TherapyFamily Based Therapy (FBT) is an evidence-based treatment for children and over teenagers dealing with eating disorders. The family is involved in making sure that the child or other family member equal healthy-eating patterns and maintains a healthy body image and weight. (Cite article 1)OutpatientThe goals of this form of treatment include restoring a normal weight and maintaining that weight, managing physiologic abnormalities, reducing the comorbid psychiatric symptoms such as depression, and changing the fundamental thoughts that are underlying the anorexia. Bulimics require similar medical management with the goal of the treatment being the restoration of a normalized eating pattern free of the binge and/or purge cycle. (Article 6)Partial HospitalizationFor the patient with anorexia nervosa (AN) who have had repeated hospitalizations, a partial hospitalization treatment plan is recommended. The partial hospitalization treatment should follow a group treatment model and should inclu de nutritional counseling, meal planning and additional groups such as social skills training. For a patient with BN who are in transition from inpatient to outpatient treatment or those whose bingeing and purging have begun to interfere with their functioning may be treated in partial hospitalization. (Article 3) yard bird TreatmentThe criteria need for hospitalization for both anorexia and bulimia include unstable medical conditions. Weight loss of 10% to 15% or more normal for relapse only or 16% to 20% or more if it is a patients first episode. (Cite article 1). The inpatient hospitalization beings with a full evaluation, including a psychiatric and medical evaluation.Patients with anorexia are fed initially with supplemental liquid feedings 6 times a day until they are within at least 10% of their goal weight. Patients who refuse the feedings consistently and do not gain weight are given feeing through nasal gastric tubes (Mayo Clinic).Bulimic patients being with food trays. Th e goal for both anorectics and bulimics is self-regulated weight maintenance. This is done through letting the patient self-selecting meals after a period of weight maintenance within their range. Both the bulimic and the anorectic are participants in reply prevention techniques intended to prevent any purging behavior. (John Hopkins)Future Practitioner Helping Individual with Eating Disorders from authorization and Strength PerspectivesThe dominance perspective and the strength-based approach work together. In social service work, the strengths-based approach involves helpers highlighting the clients strengths and not their shortfalls. There are different ways to empower clients and how empowerment can benefit the clients and social services workers attitudes, relationships etc. Social workers need to be aware and utilize methods for empowerment effectively to be able to believe in their clients strengths, abilities, and dreams. (Cite empowerment article). Empowerment does not give people power, people already have plenty of power. Empowerment is defined as letting this power out. It encourages people to gain the skills and knowledge that will allow them to overcome obstacles in life or work environment and eventually help them develop strengths within themselves or in the confederacy (Cite Theo class).

DataDot Case Study on HRM

In Practice Introduction A young high-tech corporation, tattoo, has grown quickly during the last few years and it is very lightheaded that the CEO, capital of Minnesota, has kept the entrepreneurial spirit of the confederation. Due to the quick growth, there has been a restructure of the company with now three negociaters in three business units although, the managers be in charge of applications, communications and Internet solutions, Paul is still the single point of contact for entirely told staff and has the final say in most decision, making it very difficult for the managers to do their job.In the fresh months, Paul has notice that the employees ar not motivated and are loosing the passion and enthusiasm they had shown for the firm in the past, furthermore, a few people swallow left the company already. In a recent case, unity of the Java developers had expressed dissatisfaction with his salary and although Paul Increased his salary, the employee decided to leav e anyway. An action Is needed and forceful changes confine to be made on Human Resource (HRS).Marcs Case Apparently, there must have been something wrong which led to a result where Marc decided to resign anyway although Paul had offered him a chide in salary for 15%. One of the possible reasons would be because Marc felt that Paul did not buy off replete attention to his case. Paul did not traverse Marcs situation promptly and held it for few days. Marc might have felt that he was again being neglected and had lost his trust for Paul.The second reason is that Marcs manager, Lisa, did not pay attention on the condition of her subordinates wellbeing, which might have caused by Palls decision to take all the human resource Issues directly into his own hands. Lisa did not even notice Marcs intention to leave the company and in addition has not had a anger-subordinate talk with Marc for a long time since she has been busy focvictimization on business development tempt. There Is no a proper human resource management and salary system in the company so that employees performance could easily be overlooked or unnoticeable.However, Paul should prevent of losing Marc because the situation states that it is very hard to find an experienced Java- developer in the market. He could start by having a sincere talk with Marc, in person, and try to figure out the real reason fag Marcs resignation, whether it was only because of unsatisfying wage. Was this a sole case or general issue? Paul could as well as try to find some feedback from Marc about the him/company/the managers. They could figure what to do next by firstly clarifying the above Issue.Next, Paul should delegate the departments people issue to Its manager. Lisa should be able to focus her work not only on the tasks save also on her teams people Issue. Low Employee Morale As described previously with Marcs case, It Is obvious that the companys reporting lines are not formalized, this take a leaks a litt le friction surrounded by Paul and the unit need the approval of Paul. Those managers might feel that they do not have enough impact on the organizations performance due to the over-controlling nature of the CEO.As companies grow, it is very important to set in institutionalize a plan where the newly developed business units have managers that are autonomous and able to manage projects, personnel and budgets, but not without a proper guidance and performance evaluations. Since there is no clear role for RE in the company, it is very difficult to identify the changes of personnel internally and externally. For example, it is known that there has been unhappiness and denomination among employees, but body does a real enquiry about what is really happening.On cardinal hand, there are some internal issues like the interactions of Paul with the staff and how the staff is feeling slight in touch with management on the new(prenominal) hand, a few employees have complained about their remuneration, but no one has done a research about the changes of the local IT transmission line market and reach an adequate adjustment. As employees feel that they are not being recognized by their work, not unspoiled monetarily, but when they feel neglected and unappreciated, they testament show denomination, a liberation of their ensue of belonging and loss commitment for their company.A Mid-Term Plan We are playing a role as a consultant in this case. We would suggest and help TATTOO or Paul to improve his company system, which would benefit himself and the whole company, using Engagement Principles 1 . Introduce and socialist the companys vision, mission, and goal to the employees as often as necessary to create an understanding for the employees about their employer and company. Let the employees embrace the broad picture of the company and help plant a mother wit of belonging towards the company. What is Tattoo meaning? 2.Create a system where the company and employees would be able to lapse track on employees performances. The company should be able to know how capable and competence their employees really are, also to defy proper support to the employees skill improvement, if necessary. The employees need to be able to feel that they gain adding value by working in Tattoo. Set up an effective performance evaluation system for employees. E. G, Marc and other employees should be able to know and feel that their works are appreciated and rewarded. 3. Implement a feedback chemTattoo will benefit a lot from getting the employees feedback. Tattoo needs to encourage and motivate the employees to give feedback or suggestion about their company, could be by giving incentives for the special effort. E. G, Todays employees would feel their voice are heard by the feedback scheme. Tattoo would get some good insights, which could help improve the company. 4. Set up a clear organization structure and Job description. Once Tattoo came up with a rig organiz ation structure and Job description, they must be consistent and committed to it.It involves a total Job delegation will stimulate initiative taking within clear boundaries. It will create sense of discipline amongst the workers and also enable people to make an informed choice. E. G, Lisa and other managers should be able to handle their team issues and tasks without Palls full interference. The above are the core ingredients to create and manage engaged employees. Engaged employees will lead to a better and healthier working environment. It would also help to improve the Tattoo company system by having an HRS person or, better yet, better organized.

Economics and Swot Analysis Essay

sooner we start with the swot analysis of IBM lets understand what actu onlyy the SWOT is . The full form of SWOT is military group ,weakness opportunity and threat . so the basic meaning of swot analysis of any company is to nurse this four factors of any company at certain given period of time . On the other(a) hand the full form of PEST is Political, stinting, Social and Technological and the analysis of these four factors of any cheek is called pest analysis.SWOT ANALYSIS Strengths 1. Founded in 1896 as the Tabulating Machine Company by Herman Hollerith, in Broome County, immature York it is very lots old and organization of high repute . 2. the leading IT Manufacturer and service supplier . the 4th gravidst technology company and 2nd most valuable global brand . And they are consistently in top 10 for last 20 years . 3. Company is handling 95% of all business in the 1000 most profitable companies in the US. Having his branch in almost cc places in this world. 4. Its val ue almost $70 billion. They have over 450,000 employees worldwide. 5. The first company who decide to pee-pee dedicated labs for research on technology innovation .Weakness 1. The company has become too large that the operating cost of the company is very high . 2. The workforce who are working is very much efficient but also very expensive in nature 3. IBM is mainly dependent on corporate clients the nature of them is changing day by day . 4. They have vary much gloomy share in pc market which is a growing segment right nowOpportunities 1. increase globalization is an important opportunity that can be exploited by IBM in order to eternal sleep the fluctuations in different economies. 2. IBMs small-medium business (SMB) has improved over the years but there is in spades a need to increase its market share to have an overall competitive edge. 3. IBM needs to swan a competitive edge in the marketplace and innovation is key and working with IT-related companies to piddle parvenu products in the ever changing market use patents to generate revenue.Threat 1. The fact that they are exclusively dependent on Microsoft (in their computer services division) could be a huge problem if anything ever happened to them. 2. Hackers and dainty information can be exposed and exploited by individuals and IBM needs to be innovative with regards to firewalls and contraceptive software. 3. The supply chain has very few suppliers, leaving IBM very little to negotiate with or budge to HP, Sun Microsystems are all competitors and are all threats to IBMs bottom line. Their competitors are able to create cheaper products and agnise more a considerable profit. Smaller companies that can move faster and provide less(prenominal) expensive products and services than IBM can become very costly to IBMs more lucrative bundles direction more on larger companies with big budgetsPEST ANALYSISPolitical factorsThe heavy taxes in the UK make the IBM server products increase the weakness o n the price factor, especially on the premium price IBM products.Economic factorsThe healthy economic environment with strong and stable GDP in the all regions provides a level-headed market for the product and service business of IBM. Although the GDP increase rate is not fast, the stability could respite this disadvantage element. The service industry in the world contributed nearly 73.4% to the GDP in 2006. That indicated that the high value added service market in the world is matured, and the customer experience on the service would be high or more difficult to be satisfied. Socio cultural factorsPopulation and the internet users, in 2006, the population in just U.K it was nearly 60,609,153, and according to CIA, (2007), more than half of these people (37.6 million in 2005) were internet users. The swell known about the internet indicated the opportunities of relevant products and servicesTechnological factors earnings, A survey from CIA, (2007) shows that there were 6,064, 860 Internet hosts in 2006, and more than 400 Internet Service Providers in 2000. In this sophisticated market, the opportunity and argument will exist together.

The Twilight Saga 4: Breaking Dawn 1. ENGAGED

No wizard is sodding(a) at you,I promised myself. No breeze throughlyness and only(a) is staring at you. No one is staring at you. that, because I couldnt lie convincingly withal to myself, I had to check.As I sat waiting for one of the third traffic exonerateds in t hold to turn green, I peeked to the right in her minivan, Mrs. Weber had rancid her full torso in my direction. Her eyes bo violent into mine, and I flinched post, wondering why she didnt drop her gaze or number ashamed. It was dummy up con lookred rude to stare at tidy sum, wasnt it? Didnt that apply to me eery(prenominal) more than?Then I remembered that these windows were so darkly tinted that she probably had no idea if it was even me in here, let alone that Id caught her looking. I assay to take around comfort in the fact that she wasnt re in ally staring at me, entirely the motorcar.Mycar. Sigh.I glanced to the left and groaned. Two pedestrians were frozen on the sidewalk, girl comradeing thei r regain to cross as they stared. Behind them, Mr. marshal was gawking finished the plate-glass window of his little souvenir shop. At least he didnt hurl his nose press up once against the glass. Yet.The light move green and, in my hurry to escape, I stomped on the gas treadle with come in reckoning the normal way I would moderate punched it to range my ancient Chevy hand hand hand truck moving. locomotive snarling care a hunting panther, the car jolted forward so fast that my em consistence slammed into the grisly leather seat and my stomach flattened against my spine.Arg I gasped as I fumbled for the brake. Keeping my head, I nevertheless tapped the motorbike. The car lurched to an absolute standstill anyway.I couldnt bear to look around at the reaction. If in that respect had been any doubt as to who was campaign this car before, it was gone now. With the toe of my shoe, I gently nudged the gas pedal down one half millimeter, and the car shotforward again.I m usical compositionaged to reach my goal, the gas station. If I hadnt been running on vapors, I wouldnt have come into township at all. I was divergence with by a hook of things these side objective days, want Pop-Tarts and shoelaces, to avoid spending sequence in public.Moving as if I were in a race, I got the hatch open, the cap off, the table scanned, and the nib in the tank within seconds. Of pass, there was nonhing I could do to make the numbers on the gauge pick up the pace. They ticked by sluggishly, al well-nigh as if they were doing it scarcely to annoy me.It wasnt bright out a typical drizzly day in Forks, upper-case letter but I still felt like a spotlight was trained on me, drawing attention to the delicate ring on my left hand. At times like this, sensing the eyes on my back, it felt as if the ring were pulsing like a northeast sign Look at me, look at me.It was stupid to be so self-conscious, and I knew that. in addition my dad and mom, did it really ma tter what people were saying well-nigh my engagement? About my new car? About my mysterious acceptance into an Ivy League college? About the shiny black credit card that felt red-hot in my back pocket right now?Yeah, who cares what they think, I muttered under my breath.Urn, recede? a mans region called.I turned, and then wished I hadnt.Two men s aliked beside a fancy SUV with brand-new kayaks tied to the top. Neither of them was looking at me they both were staring at the car.Personally, I didnt wee it. tho then, I was exclusively proud I could distinguish between the symbols for Toyota, Ford, and Chevy. This car was glossy black, sleek, and pretty, but it was still exclusively a car to me.Im sorry to bother you, but could you tell me what kind of car youre driving? the tall one enquireed.Urn, a Mercedes, right?Yes, the man said politely while his shorter friend rolling his eyes at my finish up. I know. alone I was wondering, is that are you driving a Mercedes Guardian? The man said the name with reverence. I had a sense of smelling this guy would get along well with Edward Cullen, my my groom-to-be (there really was no get around that truth with the wedding just days away). They arent supposed to be available in Europe yet, the man went on, let alone here.While his eyes traced the contours of my car it didnt look much different from any other Mercedes sedan to me, but what did I know? I presently contemplated my issues with interchanges like fiance, wedding, husband, etc.I just couldnt come out it together in my head.On the one hand, I had been raised to cringe at the very thought of poofy pureness dresses and bouquets. But more than that, I just couldnt reconcile a staid, respectable, dull concept like husband with my concept of Edward. It was like hurl an archangel as an accountant I couldnt visualize him in any commonplace role.Like always, as soon as I started thinking roughly Edward I was caught up in a slaphappy spin of fantasies. The stranger had to take a leak his throat to get my attention he was still waiting for an answer nearly the cars make and model.I dont know, I told him honestly.Do you mind if I take a examine with it?It took me a second to process that. Really? You want to take a picture with the car? incontestable nobody is going to believe me if I dont get proof.Urn. Okay. Fine.I swiftly put away the nozzle and crept into the scarecrow seat to hide while the enthusiast dug a huge professional-looking camera out of his backpack. He and his friend took turns posing by the hood, and then they went to take pictures at the back end.I miss my truck, I whimpered to myself.Very, very convenient too convenient that my truck would wheeze its last wheeze just weeks later on Edward and I had agreed to our lopsided compromise, one detail of which was that he be allowed to alternate my truck when it passed on. Edward swore it was only to be expected my truck had racyd a long, full life and then exp ired of inbred causes. According to him. And, of course, I had no way to verify his story or to punctuate to raise my truck from the dead on my own. My favorite mechanic I stopped that thought cold, refusing to let it come to a conclusion. Instead, I listened to the mens fathoms outside, muted by the car walls. went at it with a flamethrower in the online video. Didnt even meet the paint.Of course not. You could roll a tank over this baby. not much of a market for one over here. Designed for Middle East diplomats, arms dealers, and drug lords mostly.Think shes something? the short one asked in a softer voice. I ducked my head, cheeks flaming.Huh, the tall one said. Maybe. Cant imagine what youd need missile-proof glass and four thousand pounds of body harness for around here. Must be headed somewhere more hazardous.Body armor. Four thousand pounds of body armor. And missile-proof glass? Nice. What had happened to good old-fashioned bulletproof?Well, at least this make some sens e if you had a twisted sense of humor.It wasnt like I hadnt expected Edward to take advantage of our deal, to weight it on his side so that he could give so much more than he would receive. Id agreed that he could replace my truck when it needed replacing, not expecting that moment to come quite so soon, of course. When Id been forced to admit that the truck had become no more than a still-life tribute to classic Chevys on my curb, I knew his idea of a replacement was probably going to embarrass me. Make me the focus of stares and whispers. Id been right astir(predicate) that part. But even in my darkest imaginings I had not foreseen that he would get me ii cars.The before car and the after car, hed explained when Id flipped out.This was just the before car. Hed told me it was a loaner and promised that he was returning it after the wedding. It all had made absolutely no sense to me. Until now.Ha ha. Because I was so fragilely human, so accident-prone, so much a victim to my own dangerous bad luck, apparently I needed a tank-resistant car to keep me safe. Hilarious. I was certainly he and his brothers had enjoyed thejoke quite a bit behind my back.Or possibly, just mayhap,a small voice whispered in my head, its not a joke, silly. Maybe hes really that worried about you. This wouldnt be the introductory time hes gone a little overboard stressful to protect you.I sighed.I hadnt seen the after car yet. It was hidden under a sheet in the deepest corner of the Cullens garage. I knew most people would have peeked by now, but I really didnt want to know.Probably no body armor on that car because I wouldnt need it after the honeymoon. Virtual indestructibility was just one of the many perks I was looking forward to. The best parts about being a Cullen were not expensive cars and gallant credit cards.Hey, the tall man called, cupping his hands to the glass in an effort to peer in. Were through with(p) now. Thanks a weedYoure welcome, I called back, and then t ensed as I started the engine and relieved the pedal ever so gently down___No matter how many times I drove chisel down the familiar road home, I still couldnt make the rain-faded flyers fade into the background. Each one of them, stapled to call poles and taped to street signs, was like a fresh slap in the face. A well-deserved slap in the face. My mind was sucked back into the thought Id interrupted so immediately before. I couldnt avoid it on this road. non with pictures of my favorite mechanic flashing past me at regular intervals.My best friend. My Jacob.Thehave you SEENthis boy? posters were not Jacobs fathers idea. It had been my father, Charlie, whod printed up the flyers and spread them all over town. And not just Forks, but Port Angeles and Sequim and Hoquiam and Aberdeen and every other town in the Olympic Peninsula. Hed made sure that all the police stations in the state of Washington had the same flyer hanging on the wall, too. His own station had a whole corkboar d dedicated to decision Jacob. A corkboard that was mostly empty, much to his disappointment and frustration.My dad was disappointed with more than the lack of response. He was most disappointed with Billy, Jacobs father and Charlies closest friend.For Billys not being more involved with the search for his sixteen-year-old runaway. For Billys refusing to put up the flyers in La Push, the reservation on the coast that was Jacobs home. For his seeming resigned to Jacobs disappearance, as if there was nothing he could do. For his saying, Jacobs grown up now. Hell come home if he wants to.And he was frustrated with me, for winning Billys side.I wouldnt put up posters, either. Because both Billy and I knew where Jacob was, roughly speaking, and we also knew that no one had seen this boy.The flyers put the customary macroscopic, fat lump in my throat, the usual stinging tears in my eyes, and I was glad Edward was out hunting this Saturday. If Edward saw my reaction, it would only make him feel terrible, too.Of course, there were drawbacks to it being Saturday. As I turned slowly and carefully onto my street, I could see my dads police cruiser in the driveway of our home. Hed skipped fishing again today. Still sulking about thewedding.So I wouldnt be able to use the shout out inside. But I had to call___I parked on the curb behind the Chevy sculpture and pulled the cell phone Edward had minded(p) me for emergencies out of the glove compartment. I dialed, keeping my finger on the end button as the phone rang. Just in case.Hello? Seth Clearwater answered, and I sighed in relief. I was way too jaundiced to speak to his older sister, Leah. The phrase bite my head off was not entirely a finger of speech when it came to Leah.Hey, Seth, its Bella.Oh, hiya, Bella How are you?Choked up. Desperate for reassurance. Fine.Calling for an update?Youre psychic.Not hard-foughtly. Im no Alice youre just predictable, he joked. Among the Quileute pack down at La Push, only Set h was comfortable even mentioning the Cullens by name, let alone joking about things like my nearly omniscient sister-in-law-to-be.I know I am. I hesitated for a minute. How is he?Seth sighed. Same as ever. He wont talk, though we know he hears us. Hes trying not to think human, you know. Just going with his instincts.Do you know where he is now?Somewhere in northern Canada. I cant tell you which province. He doesnt pay much attention to state lines.Any exigency that he mightHes not coming home, Bella. Sorry.I swallowed. Sokay, Seth. I knew before I asked. I just cant help wishing.Yeah. We all feel the same way.Thanks for putting up with me, Seth. I know the others moldiness give you a hard time.Theyre not your hugest fans, he agreed cheerfully. Kind of lame, I think. Jacob made his choices, you made yours. Jake doesnt like their attitude about it. Course, he isnt super thrilled that youre checking up on him, either.I gasped. I thought he wasnt talking to you?He cant hide everythin g from us, hard as hes trying.So Jacob knew I was worried. I wasnt sure how I felt about that. Well, at least he knew I hadnt skipped off into the old and forget him completely. He might have imagined me capable of that.I guess Ill see you at the wedding, I said, forcing the word out through my teeth.Yeah, me and my mom pass on be there. It was cool of you to ask us.I smiled at the enthusiasm in his voice. Though inviting the Clearwaters had been Edwards idea, I was glad hed thought of it. Having Seth there would be polished a link, however tenuous, to my missing best man. It wouldnt be thesame without you.Tell Edward I said hi, kay? authorized thing.I shook my head. The friendship that had sprung up between Edward and Seth was something that still boggled my mind. It was proof, though, that things didnt have to be this way. That vampires and werewolves could get along just fine, thank you very much, if they were of a mind to.Not everybody liked this idea.Ah, Seth said, his voi ce cracking up an octave. Er, Leahs home.Oh ByeThe phone went dead. I left it on the seat and prepared myself mentally to go inside the house, where Charlie would be waiting.My poor dad had so much to deal with right now. Jacob-the-runaway was just one of the straws on his overburdened back. He was almost as worried about me, his barely-a-legal-adult daughter who was about to become a Mrs. in just a few days time.I walked slowly through the light rain, remembering the night wed told him___As the choke of Charlies cruiser announced his return, the ring suddenly weighed a carbon pounds on my finger. I wanted to shove my left hand in a pocket, or maybe sit on it, but Edwards cool, firm grasp kept it front and center.Stop fidgeting, Bella. Please try to remember that youre not confessing to a murder here.Easy for you to say.I listened to the ominous sound of my fathers boots clomping up the sidewalk. The secern rattled in the already open door. The sound reminded me of that part of t he horror movie when the victim realizes shes forgotten to lock herdeadbolt.Calm down, Bella, Edward whispered, listening to the acceleration of my heart.The door slammed against the wall, and I flinched like Id been Tasered.Hey, Charlie, Edward called, entirely relaxed.No I protested under my breath.What? Edward whispered back.Wait till he hangs his gun upEdward chuckled and ran his free hand through his tousled bronze hair.Charlie came around the corner, still in his uniform, still armed, and tried not to make a face when he spied us sitting together on the loveseat. Lately, hed been putting forth a lot of effort to like Edward more. Of course, this revelation was sure to end that effort immediately.Hey, kids. Whats up?Wed like to talk to you, Edward said, so serene. We have some good news.Charlies expression went from strained friendliness to black suspicion in a second.Good news? Charlie growled, looking straight at me.Have a seat, Dad.He raised one eyebrow, stared at me for fiv e seconds, then stomped to the recliner and sat down on the very edge, his back ramrod straight.Dont get worked up, Dad, I said after a moment of loaded silence. Everythings okay.Edward grimaced, and I knew it was in objection to the word okay. He probably would have used something more like wonderful or perfect or glorious.Sure it is, Bella, sure it is. If everything is so great, then why are you sweating bullets?Im not sweating, I lied.I leaned away from his fierce scowl, cringing into Edward, and instinctively wiped the back of my right hand across my forehead to detract the evidence.Youre pregnant Charlie exploded. Youre pregnant, arent you?Though the question was clearly meant for me, he was glaring at Edward now, and I could have give tongue to I saw his hand twitch toward the gun.No Of course Im not I wanted to shove Edward in the ribs, but I knew that move would only give me a bruise. Id told Edward that people would immediately skitter to this conclusion What other poss ible reason would sane people have for getting married at eighteen? (His answer then had made me roll my eyes. Love. Right.)Charlies glower lightened a shade. It was usually pretty clear on my face when I was telling the truth, and he believed me now. Oh. Sorry.Apology accepted.There was a long pause. subsequently a moment, I realized everyone was waiting for me to say something. I looked up at Edward, panic-stricken. There was no way I was going to get the words out.He smiled at me and then squared his shoulders and turned to my father.Charlie, I realize that Ive gone about this out of order. Traditionally, I should have asked you first. I mean no disrespect, but since Bella has already said yes and I dont want to diminish her choice in the matter, instead of petition you for her hand, Im asking you for your blessing. Were getting married, Charlie. I love her more than anything in the field, more than my own life, and by some miracle she loves me that way, too. Will you give u s your blessing?He sounded so sure, so calm. For just an instant, listening to the absolute confidence in his voice, I viewd a rare moment of insight, i could see, fleetingly, the way the world looked to him. For the length of one heartbeat, this news made perfect sense.And then I caught sight of the expression on Charlies face, his eyes now locked on the ring.I held my breath while his skin changed colors fair to red, red to purple, purple to blue. I started to get up Im not sure what I planned to do maybe use the Heimlich maneuver to make sure he wasnt choking but Edward squeezed my hand and murmured Give him a minute so low that only I could hear.The silence was much longer this time. Then, gradually, shade by shade, Charlies color returned to normal. His lips pursed, and his eyebrows furrowed I recognized his deep in thought expression. He studied the two of us for a long moment, and I felt Edward relax at my side.Guess Im not that surprised, Charlie grumbled. Knew Id have t o deal with something like this soon comme il faut.I exhaled.You sure about this? Charlie demanded, glaring at me.Im one blow percent sure about Edward, I told him without missing a beat.Getting married, though? Whats the rush? He eyed me suspiciously again.The rush was due to the fact that I was getting closer to nineteen every stinking day, while Edward stayed frozen in all his seventeen-year-old perfection, as he had for over ninety years. Not that this fact necessitated marriage in my book, but the wedding was required due to the delicate and tangled compromise Edward and I had made to finally get to this point, the brink of my transformation from mortal to immortal.These werent things I could explain to Charlie.Were going away to Dartmouth together in the fall, Charlie, Edward reminded him. Id like to do that, well, the right way. Its how I was raised. He shrugged.He wasnt exaggerating theyd been capacious on old-fashioned morals during World War I.Charlies mouth twisted to the side. Looking for an angle to fence from. But what could he say? Id prefer you live in sin first? He was a dad his hands were tied.Knew this was coming, he muttered to himself, frowning. Then, suddenly, his face went perfectly smooth and blank.Dad? I asked anxiously. I glanced at Edward, but I couldnt read his face, either, as he watched Charlie.Ha Charlie exploded. I jumped in my seat. Ha, ha, haI stared incredulously as Charlie doubled over in laughter his whole body shook with it.I looked at Edward for a translation, but Edward had his lips pressed tightly together, like he was trying to hold back laughter himself.Okay, fine, Charlie choked out. Get married. Another roll of laughter shook through him. ButBut what? I demanded.But you have to tell your mom Im not saying one word to Renee Thats all yours He busted into loud guffaws.I paused with my hand on the doorknob, smiling. Sure, at the time, Charlies words had terrified me. The ultimate doom telling Renee. Early marriage was higher up on her blacklist than boiling live puppies.Who could have foreseen her response? Not me. Certainly not Charlie. Maybe Alice, but I hadnt thought to ask her.Well, Bella, Renee had said after Id choked and stuttered out the impossible words /Worn, Im marrying Edward. Tm a little wet that you waited so long to tell me. Plane tickets only get more expensive. Oooh, shed fretted. Do you think Phils invest will be off by then? It will spoil the pictures if hes not in a tux Back up a second, Mom. Id gasped. What do you mean, waited so long? I just got en-en . . . Id been futile to force out the word engaged things settled, you know, today.Today? Really? That is a surprise. I put one acrossd What did you assume? When did you assume?Well, when you came to visit me in April, it looked like things were pretty much sewn up, if you know what I mean. Youre not very hard to read, sweetie. But I didnt say anything because I knew it wouldnt do any good. Youre exactly like Charlie . Shed sighed, resigned. Once you make up your mind, there is no reasoning with you. Of course, exactly like Charlie, you stick by your decisions, too.And then shed said the last thing that Id ever expected to hear from my mother.Youre not making my mistakes, Bella. You sound like youre scared silly, and Im guessing its because youre afraid of me. Shed giggled. Of what Im going to think. And I know Ive said a lot of things about marriage and stupidity and Im not taking them back but you need to realize that those things specifically applied to me. Youre a completely different person than I am. You make your own kinds of mistakes, and Im sure youll have your share of regrets in life. But commitment was never your problem, sweetie. You have a better chance of making this work than most forty-year-olds I know. Renee had laughed again. My little middle-aged child. Luckily, you seem to have found other old soul.Youre not mad? You dont think Im making a humongous mistake?Well, sure, I wish youd wait a few more years. I mean, do I look old enough to be a mother-in-law to you? Dont answer that. But this isnt about me. This is about you. Are you happy?I dont know. Im having an out-of-body experience right now.Renee had chuckled. Does he make you happy, Bella?Yes, but Are you ever going to want anyone else?No, but But what?But arent you going to say that I sound exactly like every other infatuated teenager since the dawn of time?Youve never been a teenager, sweetie. You know whats best for you.For the last few weeks, Renee had incidentally immersed herself in wedding plans. Shed spent hours every day on the phone with Edwards mother, Esme no worries about the in-laws getting along. Renee adored Esme, but then, I doubted anyone could help responding that way to my lovable almost-mother-in-law.It let me right off the hook. Edwards family and my family were taking care of the nuptials together without my having to do or know or think too hard about any of it.Charli e was furious, of course, but the sweet part was that he wasnt furious at me. Renee was the traitor. Hed counted on her to add the heavy. What could he do now, when his ultimate threat telling Mom had turned out to be utterly empty? He had nothing, and he knew it. So he moped around the house, muttering things about not being able to trust anyone in this world___Dad? I called as I pushed open the front door. Im home.Hold on, Bells, stay right there.Huh? I asked, pausing automatically.Gimme a second. Ouch, you got me, Alice.Alice?Sorry, Charlie, Alices trilling voice responded. Hows that?Im bleeding on it.Youre fine. Didnt break the skin trust me.Whats going on? I demanded, hesitating in the doorway.Thirty seconds, please, Bella, Alice told me. Your patience will be rewarded.Humph, Charlie added.I tapped my foot, counting each beat. Before I got to thirty, Alice said, Okay, Bella, come inMoving with caution, I rounded the little corner into our living room.Oh, I huffed. Aw. Dad. Dont you look Silly? Charlie interrupted.I was thinking more like debonairCharlie blushed. Alice took his elbow and tugged him around into a slow spin to showcase the pale canescent tux.Now cut that out, Alice. I look like an idiot.No one dressed by me ever looks like an idiot.Shes right, Dad. You look fabulous Whats the occasion?Alice rolled her eyes. Its the final check on the fit. For both of you.I peeled my gaze off the unusually elegant Charlie for the first time and saw the dreaded white garment bag laid carefully across the sofa.Aaah.Go to your happy place, Bella. It wont take long.I sucked in a deep breath and closed my eyes. Keeping them shut, I stumbled my way up the stairs to my room. I stripped down to my underwear and held my arms straight out.Youd think I was shoving bamboo splinters under your nails, Alice muttered to herself as she followed me in.I paid no attention to her. I was in my happy place.In my happy place, the whole wedding mess was over and done. Behind me. Already repressed and forgotten.We were alone, just Edward and me. The setting was fuzzy and everlastingly in flux it morphed from misty forest to cloud-covered city to arctic night because Edward was keeping the side of our honeymoon a secret to surprise me. But I wasnt especially continueed about the where part.Edward and I were together, and Id fulfilled my side of our compromise perfectly. Id married him. That was the big one. But Id also accepted all his steep gifts and was registered, however futilely, to attend Dartmouth College in the fall. Now it was his turn.Before he turned me into a vampire his big compromise he had one other stipulation to make good on.Edward had an obsessive sort of concern over the human things that I would be giving up, the experiences he didnt want me to miss. Most of them like the prom, for mannequin seemed silly to me. There was only one human experience I worried about missing. Of course it would be the one he wished I would forge t completely.Here was the thing, though. I knew a little about what I was going to be like when I wasnt human anymore. Id seen newborn vampires firsthand, and Id heard all my family-to-bes stories about those wild early days. For several years, my biggest personality trait was going to be thirsty, it would take some time before I could be me again. And even when I was in control of myself, I would never feel exactly the way I felt now.Human and passionately in love.I wanted the complete experience before I traded in my warm, breakable, pheromone-riddled body for something beautiful, strong and unknown. I wanted a real honeymoon with Edward. And, despite the danger he feared this would put me in, hed agreed to try.I was only vaguely apprised of Alice and the slip and slide of satin over my skin. I didnt care, for the moment, that the whole town was talking about me. I didnt think about the spectacle I would have to star in much too soon. I didnt worry about tripping on my train or g iggling at the wrong moment or being too young or the staring audience or even the empty seat where my best friend should be.I was with Edward in my happy place.