Assessment and Treatment Exercise

Jesminder â€Å"Jess† Kaur Bhamra presents today with difficulties she is having at home. She comes from a very traditional and strict Indian family where gender roles are clearly defined. Women are expected to learn to cook and care for their husbands, who are, of course, expected to be the sole breadwinners. She states that she loves and respects her parents as well as their traditions but feels such traditions are antiquated. She has decided to seek counseling because of her recent encounter with her mother. Jess does not wish to take on the traditional role of young Indian women, who marry young and desire a husband.She is very assertive and wants to break out of the mold, being something different than what is expected. I evaluate this as a typical adolescent issue, a growing pain, if you will that is being trivialized by her parents. Jess is at a crossroads. It is normal to desire to please one’s parents and Jess needs to evaluate her motives for doing what she wa nts for herself and what her parents’ desires. Client Motivation Jess sees herself as a female version of her hero, David Beckham, competing in soccer rather than cooking for an acceptable Indian man as tradition dictates.She has posters of him plastered all over her bedroom. She watches him so intensely on television that she is not even always aware that her parents are calling her. She plays every chance she gets with her male counterparts in the park. She even keeps up a rouse of a summer job to secretly participate on an all girl team. She is also made aware by her teammates and coach that there is a real possibility that her dream of playing professionally may be realized Client Resources (strengths) Jess exercises and practices frequently. Her coach and peers encourage her and let her know how good of a player she is.The guys that she plays with at the park come to her games to cheer her on. Jess is highly disciplined. She takes her training seriously and has a very lo ving and supporting family. She states that her mother always wants the best for she and her sister and that she is always concerned with their well-being. Jess can talk to her father about anything that is going on in her life and most of the time, he is very understanding. She and her sister have a close bond. Her relationship with her sister, Pinky, is one of the things that enables her to continue on.Pinky covers for Jess so that she can continue to play soccer. She encourages her to do her best and not to worry about other people’s thoughts about what she is doing. Jess also mentions Jules, a teammate who is going through a similar situation with her own family and has been able to relate to her struggles. They are a tower of strength to each other. In addition to sheer determination, these are things that keep Jess focused on her goals. Interpersonal functioning Jess’s peers share her interests. She has a few peers that are ‘boy crazy’ but she does n ot really hang out with them.Jess has slowly begun to detach herself from them because they cannot understand why she would rather get sweaty and dirty than go shopping with them. She also has an understanding coach, Joe. Joe has helped her break out of her shell by allowing her to accept herself. She was very afraid to play in short pans because of the burns she encountered as a child. Joe showed her his scar and she is no longer afraid to play in short pants. This new level of acceptance has propelled her into a greater realm of possibilities. No one on her team comments about it.One of her peers from the park made a comment but she was very resilient to it and it has not been an issue since. She has made a healthy adjustment to her circumstances and not let a deformity discourage or predict her future. Intrapersonal function According to Jess, going against her mother’s wishes is like rejecting her own culture. The reason that she feels this way is because she believes tha t she has nothing in common with the majority of her peers, especially those within her culture. Her priorities clash with her mother’s expectations.Jess believes her mother wants her to be more feminine like her sister and that her mother values matrimony over independence. Even though she has now surrounded herself with people that are interested in the same things she is, she can not help but feel alone. As much as her friends want to be there for her they do not understand why she can not just tell her mother what she really wants to do and her peers have a hard time letting her deal with the situation. They do not understand her traditions. Even though her sister has always been there for her, Pinky is more traditional.Jess is the only female in her immediate cultural surroundings that has an unusual aspiration and she is trying to assess her feelings. She needs to determine if she is doing the right thing. Without any female role models in her culture to model, it is an even more difficult feat. As much as she wants to follow her dreams and make soccer her profession, she is also feeling torn inside. Ethic/Culture/Gender considerations In Indian culture one of the most important things there is, is marriage and family. It is unthinkable for a daughter to go against her parents’ wishes and most importantly playing such a masculine sport like soccer.According to Jess girls are supposed to put a great emphasis on learning how to be a good homemaker and making their husband happy and then they can think about such things as education and other interests they may have. In Indian society an arranged marriage is seen as an act of love. Since marriage in their culture is one of the most important decisions a person will ever make and because divorce is not accepted among most Indians, it is important that the marriage choice is carefully thought out and planned.The family, usually the parents, look for certain traits in a marriage partner. Some des irable traits looked for in both male and female are things like matching levels of education, matching cultures, close parental cities and matching religions. There are however times when a â€Å"love match† happens as it was in the case of Pinky and her fiance. A love match is much like an American marriage, where the two fall in love. However, in Jess’s case her interest in soccer was not going to be accepted that easily. Her situation went beyond what any elder in her family would ever understand.For them, seeing Jess run around in a pair of shorts playing a game that is considered a â€Å"men† sport would bring much disgrace to their whole family. Her culture does not accept any form of homosexuality. She almost destroyed her sister’s chances of getting married because the fiance’s family thought they saw her kissing a girl. She and Jules were joking around on a bus stop and it was misinterpreted by Pinky’s future in-laws. It brought te mporary shame to her family. Her culture is very keen on respecting parents and obeying their wishes.This is why the secret that she keeps is causing her so much turmoil. Her family is deeply religious and she has to participate in various rituals that interfere with her ability to play soccer. Developmental considerations If Jess were to be a â€Å"regular† girl growing up in the United States the problem that she is going through might not be such a big deal with any other family. There are some families who would love to have a well-rounded teen-ager who is staying out of trouble and has not given into peer pressure to follow any trends.For a 17 year-old Jess is very mature and is able to analyze the consequences that her actions might bring. She is mature enough to understand that she is caught between what she wants and what her parents want for her and was able to seek out the help that she needs in order to address her problem. Inferences and Judgments Jess is a wonder ful young lady. She is very grounded and disciplined. She has great friends. One of the young men she pals around with even offered to marry her so that she can pursue her dream. She was offered a scholarship to play soccer and she does not know how to inform her parents about it.Given her history and her internal conflict, I am confident that Jess will make the right decision and right choices for her family and her future. Summary Practitioner’s impressions, including the initial problem targeted for treatment When I first met with Jess I believed her to be a well-rounded person that really knew what she wanted. She has a lot of things going in her favor such as having a strong support system that she can count on and having a strong sense of self when it comes to what she wants out of life.She is lacking the confidence and courage to confront her mother and let her know what she wants out of life. Identification of goals Some of the goals we have set during our sessions in volve ways of solving her dilemma with her family. Her father has become aware of her situation and she was allowed to play in the tournament. She has made immense progress by allowing one of her parents to become her ally. She needs to build and strengthen her relationship with her mother and allow her mother to come to terms with her decisions. She also needs to stand firm on her beliefs.Jess must learn to combine her interests and goals for the future with her cultural influence. She also needs to learn to be more constructive in her way of handling others’ opinions of her culture. She had become very upset on the field when a young lady called her a Paki. She began fighting with her. She and Joe have developed feelings for each other. She must work getting her parents to accept this because he is not of her culture. Overall, she has made tremendous progress and at this point, she seems sufficient enough to execute these goals without further intervention.

Rear Window Essay

In the 1950’s film Rear Window, director Alfred Hitchcock sets his entire work looking through a man, L. B. Jeffries’ rear window. Because of his broken leg, Jeffries is confined to his apartment, and even to his wheelchair. It is here, in his apartment, that the protagonist watches, or even spies on his neighbors. He draws conclusions on these people, but from a distance: across the apartment-building courtyard. In addition to this physical distance separating Jeffries from his neighbors, his perspective, too, distances him from his conclusions. Only seen through the glass of a window and the lens of a camera, Jeffries’ point of view is confined to only a single vision. We see that this single vision, however, provides Jeffries with an ample amount of information. The avant-garde cinematography combined with the original plot creates a new mean to film. Alfred Hitchcock’s innovative Rear Window allows the audience to bring their own experiences to the film: just as Jeffries draws conclusions on his neighbors from a distance, man too establishes his own perspective in the real world, and brings this experience to the film to understand its meaning. In Rear Window’s opening scene, the camera slowly scans the setting that will surround L. B. Jeffries for the rest of the film. It pans over many apartments, all full of people doing different activities, going on his or her daily routine. This seemingly normal day in the New York City apartment complex gives the audience a sense of familiarity with the setting, and the people that live there. As seen through Jeffries’ rear window, this scene foreshadows the rest of the film; little does the audience know that what seems ordinary, a simple window, actually reveals more: crime. Because the film’s title is Rear Window, this specific window indeed holds some significance. One could say the window hides Jeffries from the real world, as he is confined to his own apartment. While on the other hand, it could be said that the window submerges the protagonist into this world. I believe that the window serves as both tools: as the film’s antagonist, Thorwald sees Jeffries spying on him, Jeffries closes his window and retreats into his apartment- escaping the real world. On the contrary, however, the audience sees Jeffries constantly peering through the window, using the pane of glass to almost enhance his vision, and draw his conclusions. Just as the window both hides and reveals L. B. Jeffries, so does his camera lens. Throughout the movie, Jeffries uses his lens to get a better vision of his neighbors and their activity. Yet the protagonist uses his camera in an unconventional way- rather than using it to take a snapshot of a certain instance, Jeffries uses the camera lens simply to magnify his vision, and gain a deeper understanding of his neighbors, especially Thorwald. Just as L. B. Jeffries, I too have drawn conclusions on others from a distance. Attending a small high school comprised of only one thousand students, I have a superficial understanding of most of my peers. What seems to be a small distance separating my peers and I, actually acts as a barrier, just as Jeffries’ window and camera do. Recently, I was formally introduced to a peer of mine, who I simply knew by association. I had heard people give their own opinions about her, critique her, or speak highly of her- I had yet to draw my own conclusion of her. It was only until I spent a few days with her, and had conversation with her that I could finally create my own opinion. For years I had an imprinted opinion of her in my head, but as I finally broke through the barrier, my rear window, I could either support or refute my assumption. Right on some accounts and wrong on others, I, like L. B. Jeffries, drew conclusions with a barrier; we both had been living behind our rear window.

Eng 115

Assignment 2. 2: The Public Needs to Know – 49 Million People are Experiencing Hunger in America Lisa Jenkins Strayer University ENG 115 Amy Sloan The economic conditions surrounding our food pantries today are that the demand from patrons experiencing food insecurity has risen dramatically, while donations from outside sources are lessening. Other factors include the increasingly higher cost of fuel and food, a change in desire for fresh foods versus canned, the ability to store these types of foods and the willingness for enough volunteers to lend a hand.Food pantries depend on a large amount of donations from large food chains and manufacturers. These types of donations are decreasing due to new technologies in the industry that help optimize productions, therefore lessening the amount of product that is overproduced. According to Feeding America, â€Å"Hunger in America exists for nearly 49 million people. That is one in six of the U. S. population – including more than one in five children. † (http://feedingamerica. org 2012) The USDA reports that 1 in 4 Americans access programs that provide food assistance through the federal government. (www. USDA. ov 2012 p. 1)The unemployment rate for 2011 was 8. 9%, a small decrease from previous years. (www. USDA. gov 2012 p. 5) It appears that the economy of America is not improving. Food assistance is no longer only for the homeless and unemployed. A majority of patrons receiving food assistance from food pantries report that at least one adult is employed in the household. Food insecurity does not only exist in the suburbs anymore. Growing populations of those in need of food assistance live in rural areas and do not always have access to food pantries. Food insecurity is growing expeditiously in the U. S. nd currently exists in every county in America. More women, children and elderly are experiencing food insecurity than ever before. The patrons of food pantries are no longer visiting only in emergency situations. The trend now is for those patrons to use food pantries to supplement their food sources on a regular basis. The special needs of those served at food pantries include the need and desire for fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy and proteins to ensure proper nutritional needs are being met. Reports show that children and adults that are not eating properly will suffer physically and mentally in regards to their health.This is especially important with children who are still developing. Children that are food insecure will most likely not do well academically; have lower test scores, experience depression and behavioral problems in school. Women that are not receiving proper nutrition during pregnancy may experience complications during child birth and could give birth to low birth weight babies. Adults need access to nutritional foods so that they can maintain a healthy lifestyle and try to keep their self-esteem during this difficult time.The elderly may have fo od restrictions due to current medications that are taken for health reasons or might be handicapped and need assistance getting food delivered or prepared. The importance of helping those in need of receiving access to nutritional foods is of the utmost importance to the future of our nation. Some of the programs provided by Feeding America for Children are: The Kids Cafe, Back Pack Program, Summer Food Program, and The School Pantry Program. Essentially the purpose of each of these programs is to provide nutritious meals for children in need.The Kids Cafe provides meals and snacks at after school programs and churches. The Back Pack Program sends nutritious foods and snacks home with school children to provide food they might not have otherwise received over the week end. The Summer Food Program provides meals during the summer at safe and easy to access locations. Several programs are also available for pregnant women and the elderly. The National Produce Program has partnerships with growers to provide bulk sources of fresh foods available for distribution to Feeding America food banks.This includes special packing to insure freshness. More nutritious foods are being made available to the food insecure through the national Produce Program than ever before. Contact your local food bank to find out which services are offered or how to help. The benefits of all the programs provided by Feeding America are insurmountable. Providing fresh, wholesome nutritional foods to men, women and children that might otherwise do without helps those individuals live healthier more productive lives.Helping others with food insecurity will hopefully help those individuals eventually be able to help themselves and to turn things around so that one day they will be able to provide for themselves. The sense of urgency of the situation needs to be spread to individuals, corporations, local governments and politicians, as well as federal government in hopes that everyone’s awareness will encourage people to take action to help end hunger in the richest country in the world. (See figure 2. ) The importance of helping those in need of receiving access to nutritional foods is of the utmost importance to our nation.The number of those in need of assistance has more than tripled since the beginning of the most recent economic downturn. Costs of foods and gasoline are not stabilizing. More and more people are losing their jobs due to economic downturn and/or American jobs are being eliminated by U. S. corporations and then those same jobs are moved to other countries where corporations can pay lower wages and benefits to the people of those countries. These actions by large corporations and the government are not helping to turn the economy around. These actions are not helping to put food in the hands of Americans that are in need.No longer should those individuals that can help sit back and do nothing. There is no reason why the richest country in the wor ld should have over 15% of its population experiencing hunger and food insecurity. There is no reason why almost 17 million American children should not have nutritional meals available to them every day. Our government, corporations and individuals are needed to help make a difference. After all it is our responsibility to help others in need. References Feeding America (2012) Hunger in America Retrieved from Feeding America website: http://feedingamerica. rg/hunger-in-america. aspx Feeding America (2012) Hunger in America: Hunger and Poverty Statistics. Retrieved from Feeding America website: http://feedingamerica. org/hunger-in-america/hunger-facts/hunger-and-poverty-statistics. aspx (Figure 1) http://feedingamerica. org/get-involved. aspx (Figure 2) USDA Economic Research Service U. S. Department of Agriculture Economic Information Bulletin No. 93 March 2012 retrieved from USDA website: http://www. ers. usda. gov/media/376910/eib93_1_. pdf (p. 1) USDA Economic Research Service U . S. Department of Agriculture Economic Information Bulletin No. 3 March 2012 retrieved from USDA website: http://www. ers. usda. gov/media/376910/eib93_1_. pdf (p. 5) Hunger & Poverty Statistics Although related, food insecurity and poverty are not the same. Unemployment rather than poverty is a stronger predictor of food insecurity. Povertyi * In 2010, 46. 2 million people (15. 1 percent) were in poverty. * In 2010, 9. 2 million (11. 7 percent) families were in poverty. * In 2010, 26. 3 million (13. 7 percent) of people ages 18-64 were in poverty. * In 2010, 16. 4 million (22. 0 percent) children under the age of 18 were in poverty. In 2010, 3. 5 million (9. 0 percent) seniors 65 and older were in poverty. * The overall Poverty Rate according to the Supplemental Poverty Measure is 16. 0%, as compared with the official poverty rate of 15. 1%. ii * Under the Supplemental Poverty Measure, there are 49. 1 million people living in poverty, 2. 5 million more than are represented by the official poverty measure (46. 2 million). iii Food Insecurity and Very Low Food Securityiv * In 2010, 48. 8 million Americans lived in food insecure households, 32. 6 million adults and 16. 2 million children. In 2010, 14. 5 percent of households (17. 2 million households) were food insecure. * In 2010, 5. 4 percent of households (6. 4 million households) experienced very low food security. * In 2010, households with children reported food insecurity at a significantly higher rate than those without children, 20. 2 percent compared to 11. 7 percent. * In 2010, households that had higher rates of food insecurity than the national average included households with children (20. 2 percent), especially households with children headed by single women (35. 1 percent) or single men (25. percent), Black non-Hispanic households (25. 1 percent) and Hispanic households (26. 2 percent). * In 2009, 8. 0 percent of seniors living alone (925,000 households) were food insecure. * Food insecurity exi sts in every county in America, ranging from a low of 5 percent in Steele County, ND to a high of 38 percent in Wilcox County, AL. v Nine states exhibited statistically significant higher household food insecurity rates than the U. S. national average 2008-2010:iv United States 14. 6% Mississippi 19. 4% Texas 18. 8% Arkansas 18. 6% Alabama 17. 3% Georgia 16. 9% Ohio 16. 4%Florida 16. 1% California 15. 9% North Carolina 15. 7% Use of Emergency Food Assistance and Federal Food Assistance Programsvi * In 2010, 4. 8 percent of all U. S. households (5. 6 million households) accessed emergency food from a food pantry one or more times. 2 * In 2010, 59. 2 percent of food-insecure households participated in at least one of the three major Federal food assistance programs –Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (formerly Food Stamp Program), The National School Lunch Program, and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children. Feeding America provides e mergency food assistance to an estimated 37 million low-income people annually, a 46 percent increase from 25 million since Hunger in America 2010. * Among members of Feeding America, 74 percent of pantries, 65 percent of kitchens, and 54 percent of shelters reported that there had been an increase since 2006 in the number of clients who come to their emergency food program sites. i U. S. Census Bureau. Carmen DeNavas-Walt, B. Proctor, C. Lee. Income, Poverty, and Heath Insurance Coverage in the United States: 2010.September 2011. ii The Research Supplemental Poverty Measure: 2010. (2011). U. S. Census Bureau. iii Ibid. iv USDA. Coleman-Jensen, A. , Nord, M. , Andrews, M. , & Carlson, S. Household Food Security in the United States in 2010. v Feeding America. Gundersen, G. , Waxman, E. , Engelhard, E. , Del Vecchio, T. , Satoh, A. , & Lopez-Betanzos, A. Map the Meal Gap 2012. vi Rhoda Cohen, J. , Mabli, F. , Potter, Z. , Zhao. Mathematica Policy Research, Feeding America. Hunger in America 2010. [i] U. S. Department of Labor. Bureau of Labor Statistics. 010 Annual Average Unemployment Rates. Figure 1. Feeding America 2012 Hunger in America Hunger Facts: Hunger and Poverty Statistics Retrieved from Feeding America website: http://feedingamerica. org/hunger-in-america/hunger-facts/hunger-and-poverty-statistics. aspx Get Involved With nearly 49 million Americans struggling with hunger, it is going to take efforts from many people to help alleviate this issue. There are many ways to help in the cause. Figure 2. Feeding America 2012 Retrieved from Feeding America website: http://feedingamerica. org/get-involved. aspx

Pearl Harbor Raid Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Pearl Harbor Raid - Essay Example The consequences of this nuclear attack changed the course of history. Had Japan not carried out that attack on Pearl Harbor back in 1941, USA might not have entered the war and history, as we know it, would have been different. There are many people who might argue this act of the USA to be a despicable one even though it did bring the war to a close. The fact that the Japanese Army practically ran the country and its foreign policies controlled by it did not make matters better for the already war torn millions inside Japan. Whether this justifies the bombing or not is a debatable point. However, the attack at Pearl Harbor and the consequent entry of USA into the World War II in an active role signified the inevitable downfall of the Japanese Empire. The Pearl Harbor raid had its share of controversies which made worse the already declining situation for the Japanese. Even though the Japanese were to have issued a warning of the attack as per war time codes dictate, due to supposed delays, the news reached an hour after the initial attack commenced (Howard, 1999). This â€Å"sneak attack† allowed the then President of the USA to rally the country behind him in the name of an unannounced treacherous attack and plunge into the war. The Japanese confidence in their superior navy and army, and woeful ignorance of the major strides of the Americans in the fields of nuclear warfare led to the ultimate surrender in September 1945 which brought the World War II to its fateful end.

Economic Issues Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

Economic Issues - Essay Example These cities such as Stoke-on-Trent which was once booming with business and investors are now struggling to even keep majority of their industries open as the investors have moved to London and so has the population (Sindreu & Douglas). The situation in the UK is not very different with what has been happening in the rest of the world with big cities taking over all the business for the smaller cities and masking the economic problems being witnessed in the countries. Investors move into the large cities and camp there forgetting that there are other cities that need the investment more. The population of the nation also moves from their struggling cities and seek employment in these cities. All the elite camp in these cities and continue to build up the already booming economy. This is however really wrong as only one or a few cities in the country cannot totally be taking over the business from the rest of the cities making other loose employment through closing industries while the large cities are overflowing with them. The booming economy in large cities and the influx of people to these cities only lead to increase in inequality. Those in these cities are overly paid and enjoy the security of employment while the rest of the people struggle to even put food on their table at all times. The situation can be equated to the rich becoming richer while the poor continue to wallow in poverty. With the large cities having control over everything in the nation, the rest of the cities have to rely on them to survive. People are forced to go shop in London, New York, San Francisco or Washington as they are the ones with the resources and supply of materials. The little resources remaining in these other cities are therefore continuously being taken to the lack cities widening the economic gap even wider (DePillis & Guo). The government should come in and try and create some balance within all its cities in the nation. It cannot put all its eggs in one basket by

Transformational Leadership and Public Service Motivation Essay

Transformational Leadership and Public Service Motivation - Essay Example The desire to maximize on self-interest provides aspiring leaders the unique chances to assume leadership roles by simultaneously meeting the demands of the subjects and those of the organization.   For Gordon, in his pursuit of exceptional leadership attributes, among the things he ought to understand is that his interaction with his subordinates should permit the building of an explicitly motivational work environment. Doing so implies that the individual acquires the means of transcending their typical roles as followers or leaders. Google’s organizational culture presents the best example of how leaders relate to their supporters. In their culture, the making of company decisions is a role of company employees, irrespective of rank. Any organization needs a workforce made up of leaders and subordinates (Barbuto, 2010, p. 30). The expectancy theory described above relies upon the extrinsic motivators in the description of behaviors demonstrated in the working environment (Barbuto, 2010, p. 28). For instance, external rewards have been known to have inducing effects of fueling practices relative to nitrite motivators (Hitt, Porter & Black, 2011, p. 87). The intrinsi c theory argues that traits are a consequence of internal forces in the form of job satisfaction. Scholarships claim that motivational thoughts hedged on the concept of motivation are of the assumption that subordinates make conscious choices as a way of maximizing self-interests (Paarlberg, & Lavigna, 2010, p. 710).   The above-argued concept makes this paper suggest that the expectancy school of thought provides a vehicle for Gordon to realize his leadership ambitions. The paper argues so because the likelihood model tends to equip leaders with the necessary tools to affect the psychological processes within their followers (Humphreys, & Einstein, 2014, p. 60).  

Boots-PLC Financial Report Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Boots-PLC Financial Report - Case Study Example 53). The net profit was 501.7 m in 2005 and 550.1 m in 2004 (Boots Group PLC Annual Report 2005, p. 46). The net profit margin has changed from 0.103 (2004) to 0.092 (2005). The following graph supports the information on the changes of group turnover, net profit, and net profit margin throughout the last 5 years. It is important to notice that while the group turnover is increasing (more goods are sold), the net profit are decreasing (non-operating costs are rising), and the profitability of the company is falling. Nevertheless it is high enough in compare with the main competitors: Alliance UniChem had the same net profit margin of 0.022 over two years (Alliance UniChem Key Financial Data, 2005); and J Sainsbury has decreased its net profit margin from 0.031 in 2004 to 0.020 in 2005 (J Sainsbury Financials, 2005). More detailed comparison is available in Appendix 1. Current assets of Boots PLC in 2005 were 1575.8 m, while the current liabilities were 1074.1 m (Boots Group PLC Annual Report 2005, p. 47). Therefore current liquidity ratio for 2005 is 1.47, which means that a company can meet its short-term obligations without serious troubles. The current liquidity ratio for the year 2004 was 1.52, which means the ratio of current assets to current liabilities has decreased - definitely, not a good sign for the company. Looking at the cash flow statement of the Boots PLC one can see that cash inflow from operating activities has significantly decreased from 637.8 m in 2004 to 514.7 m in 2005 (Boots Group PLC Annual Report 2005, p. 48) due to lower operating profit and larger increase in working capital. Still the main cash inflow comes from operating, which is a sign of financial health of a company. Also the company has increased its debt significantly by 668 m (Boots Group PLC Annual Report 2005, p. 64) returning funds to shareholders to make the balance sheet more efficient. Therefore overall closing net debt in 2005 was 594.1 m comparatively to 148.5 m in 2004 (Boots Group PLC Annual Report 2005, p. 48). Long-term debt/equity ratio=long-term debt/shareholders' equity Long-term liabilities of Boots PLC are 588.7 m (Boots Group PLC Annual Report 2005, p. 47). Equity shareholder's funds are equal to 1,609.4 m (Boots Group PLC Annual Report 2005, p. 47). Therefore debt-to-equity ratio is 0.37, which is a low number indicating that a capital structure of a company can be shifted more towards using debt. The high liquidity ratio shows that it is possible to use debt furthermore. 1b. Currently the company's use of retained earnings for financing its operations is low in compare to its use of debt. Nevertheless, high liquidity allows further use debt for financing. The capital structure of Boots PLC is not optimal; the company should take the opportunity of increasing its debt for financing. The other ways of financing operations of Boots PLC can be achieved through the use common or premium stock. 2a. I. 'Dividends

Presentation Critique Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Presentation Critique - Essay Example The introduction did, however, set up the presentation well and give some general themes that would be explored better further in the presentation, though one thing I would have liked to see would be some explanation of context (a power outage that affects a huge area vs a small area, or home vs office etc.) The content was good, though some parts of it were more disjointed than was necessary. The introduction gave some topics that would be discussed, but some of these were either missing in the presentation (such as how to stop equipment damage) or else not clearly correlated with those introductory ideas. However, all content presented was on topic, appropriate and effective. This was one of the weaker areas of the presentation. Some of the visuals were good (the lightning one, for instance) while others seemed very out of place: the â€Å"Key to success† visual was both off topic (equating success to money, which was not really what success is in terms of power outages), while also being low resolution and overly

Week 10 responses Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 1

Week 10 responses - Essay Example That being said, within each subsidiary the company would be homogeneous, or non-diverse. Would that then be D&I? Because personal interaction will be largely between people of similar backgrounds, and interactions between individuals from different countries will largely be for coordination purposes and by electronic correspondence mostly, that could hardly be called diversified. In truth, multinational enterprises will be doing little diversity and inclusion if viewed from the perspective of each locale. Probably the true diversity and inclusion effects will be found in the main headquarters where all subsidiaries should be represented, and where the population is diverse enough for people of different backgrounds and circumstances to come together and interact on a personal basis. Diversity and inclusion necessarily includes at least an attitude of tolerance among different people, and at best acceptance of their differences (Chmiel, 2008). After all, this is what is depicted in each chapter of the Trailblazers book, the means and methods how individuals working closely together could become an asset to an organization (Anderson & Billings-Harris, 2010). The post is incisive and provides a candid personal viewpoint on how the course has tuly helped affirm one’s beliefs and convictions about a highly relevant social issue. Often mentioned was the response from classmates which provided validation for the individual student in this class concerning his/her own views on the different chapters and lessons, and the impact of the lessons in detail (i.e., the analysis of Robber’s Cave Experiment and the Chick-Fil-A Appreciation Day incident). I agree with Christopher that the specific issues discussed provided a practical focal point for the general principles and policies attached to D&I, and were very effective in driving home the

In the lake of the woods Essay Example for Free

In the lake of the woods Essay I believe that everything that happened in the story is an effect of John’s sufferings. We can say that John is the real victim in this book. The story tells us that John, as a child was frequently abused verbally and physically by his alcoholic father, whom to other children seemed the perfect father. John then turns to his fantasy of being a sorcerer in order to treat himself from the abuse. According to Penn State Children’s Hospital, over the long run, abused children are more likely to use drugs, become sexually promiscuous, have low self esteem, exhibit extremely passive or aggressive behavior, have difficulty with interpersonal relationships, perform poorly in school, have frequent nightmares, and experience depression that can lead to attempted suicide. These may explain how John became a not-so normal adult, who now believes that he is in fact, the sorcerer. In one long-term study, as many as 80 percent of young adults who had been abused met the diagnostic criteria for at least one psychiatric disorder at age 21 (Child Welfare Information Gateway). Kathy’s disappearance provides us a venue to think of what John could have done. O’Brien, the author of In the Lake of the Woods, lets us readers decide. In a human rights point of view, I firmly believe that child abuse has immeasurable effects as proven by the statements above. A physically abused child may become as violent as his oppressor or even more. With this, I can say that John’s psychological health was affected and this is why Kathy, his wife disappeared. It can be that John, spilled hot water over Kathy when he said he poured the boiling water on the plants. It only manifests that John has violent tendencies. John’s psychological health may have also been deterred by his participation in the Vietnam massacre. He is guilty of his In the Lake of the Woods page 2 participation and is trying to erase the thought by moving to another place. And his plan did not work. We can say that John may have murdered his wife and plans to kill himself afterwards. John’s human right was violated as a child and come his adult life, he has done the same. Keeping human rights in mind, this is what I think happened in the story. This is not exclusive to the book but is also prevalent in today’s society. Wars are waged because someone’s human rights were stepped on, fathers hit their spouses because they were also abused by their fathers. It only says that human rights violation is a disease. It is a social cancer that leads to death and violence. The book tells us how human rights play a role and that it is not just a set of rules but a law that protects our lives and our future. Bibliography â€Å"Long-term Consequences of Child Abuse and Neglect†. Child Welfare Information Gateway. 9 December 2006. http://www. childwelfare. gov/pubs/factsheets/long_term_consequences. cfm â€Å"Child Physical Abuse†. Penn State Children’s Hospital. 9 December 2006. http://www. hmc. psu. edu/childrens/healthinfo/pq/physicalabuse. htm.

Security Preparation in Shopping Malls

Security Preparation in Shopping Malls Security Plan Paper Security preparation is essential to maintain a flourishing business. Some shopping center otherwise wholesale store has a more appropriate outline of security to function appropriately and be able to make a earning. Security has many different forms varies it could be locked gates to armed security as well as entree position. Electronics has a major role with maintaining a company secured along with the safety. Security arrangements are surveillance cameras, alarms also security workers are keeping watch of the cameras, they are part of a very essential position in the success of the business. Nevertheless, this is in order to keep the commodities being removed off the premises without it being paid for. Security experts have to maintain to the uppermost regulations when working in any Shopping mall. There are malls that will only hire qualified individuals that will take on the duty of keeping their environment risk-free. In addition, when it comes to security professionals it is essential they be trusted and accountable if they want staff members to respect them. Security experts have to train, constant review of their occupation duties with current evaluations about their job performance. Shopping Mall has excellent security systems that are highly recommended with security officers. However, these security officers are able to see precisely what is going on in all parts of the shopping center. The security system has extremely good quality video equipment. The back entries to all the retail provisions that are surrounded by the shopping center has restricted entree, which the security officers are placed throughout the shopping center. There are signs throughout the shopping cent ers also in the parking lot stating that it is under surveillance. Several shopping centers have parking lots that are well lit for the protection of the customers as well as the employees. When it comes to the employees there are many that will do their best to attain accurate and risk-free safety measures. When it comes to the technology at the shopping center, it has a complex plan of attack to security, which includes crime prevention through environment design. This is a plan, which includes interior and exterior design features to help better some crime and protect customers along with employees. Even so all criminal acts cannot be prevented the workers as well as security professionals continue to work collectively keep the mall safe as possible for the customers and all who work there. There are a few threats that some of these shopping centers need to keep watch of robbery, arson, shoplifting, theft, bomb threats also computer hacking. These criminal acts are not only limited but also it can happen anywhere at any given time. That is why many of the shopping centers strive to making sure they have the best security standards. Every employee as well as the security professionals that work at these different shopping centers has to be ready for any type of situation. The security professionals at these shopping centers need to be aware of any shoplifters. When an individual is in a store and not purchasing, anything or the customer looks suspicious or wearing clothing that does not permit the weather, which could be a possible threat. Although many shopping malls have a great security, plans there are not many businesses that are safe any type of threat. It is important that all security personnel be trained in order to handle all types’ scenarios. Once the proper training has been accessible and completed by all security official at all of the stores that are located within the shopping mall can be susceptible to all dangers. However, there are varieties of liable threats that can come up. However, the threat can include things like the lack of proper surveillance, and the possibility of unofficial personnel entering any store from a loading docks, threats from robberies as well as to cashiers and also the possibility of a shoplifting threats to cashiers this can definitely be overlooked. Once all of the security personnel have done their jobs to the best of their ability, the threats would not be as high. When it comes to physical security is controlling in many shopping malls. The mall that I have been too they have at least two at every entrance. Then there are armed security guards that are in the security office as well that are monitoring the cameras then there are armed security officers who are walking throughout the mall to keep a watch for any threats. The physical features of a security plan that they have for some of these malls can be very impressive but are a step ahead of other security standards. The security personnel at the shopping malls they use two way radio and cell phones to communicate with one another. There are shopping malls that I have been to that the employees had a two-way radios or a cell phone that they were carrying at all times. This is another way for them to be aware about what is taking place and relay information efficiently and quickly to one another; this is what makes things in the mall run smoothly. Then the information is being recorded on a high tech monitoring system, this a immense help for any crime scene investigations along with assembly cases. Many of the shopping malls are insured for liability. When incidents that take place at a shopping mall or either on the premises, it is recorded through the cameras that are located just about everywhere. Having this information is great when it pertains to liability. In order to become employed with any shopping center one have to pass a drug test as well as alcohol test, they will have to go through the pre employment screening along with a full background check completed. After they are hired, each individual along with the security personnel will then be subject to a random drug and alcohol testing. With the pre employment screenings this is essential this is another way to keep the environment safe from any lose furthermore employee stealing. There are guidelines that need to be respected for a screening to be done correctly. Every policy that is in place at these shopping malls relies on the teamwork. When it comes to the employees and the security staff, they rely on one another for assistance and safety. These plans of action are needed to be able to keep things moving smoothly. The other stores within the mall have their own goals. These stores have precise inventory with all of their merchandise that comes into their store along with the merchandise that goes out as well. The security staff will help in making sure each individual store will be making a profit. If there should ever be a bomb threat at a shopping mall, they will have to evacuate the entire building. Then everyone will have to stand away from the parking lot that is closest to the road until the authority is given a call. When there is a bomb threat, it needs to be taken seriously and this is the same way if there were a fire. The difference is that the authorities that would need to be called for a bomb threat is a swat team and then the bomb squad will then be called as for a fire the fire department will be called as well. When it comes to these threats, there is a code that is used while using two way radios as a way of communication so that the security staff can inform the other staff members to evacuate the premises within a clam but yet in a effective and speedy manner. All members will have to stand outside away from building until the authorities has cleared the area of being safe. If ever the shopping mall were to have a fire, the same procedure as for a bomb threa t would be used. Even though there are fire alarms that are located throughout the building which are at all entrances, exits. Again, in case of a bomb threat the staff members and security personnel they work together in order to help evacuate the building safely everyone have to stay away until the authorities cleared the area from all danger. When there is a threat to any shopping mall the security personnel are notified through there two-way radios. References Clifford, M. (2004). Identifying and Exploring Security Essentials. Prentice Hall Homeland Security.(2006).Retrieved from http:// http://www.rand.org/content/dam/rand/pubs/technical_reports/2006/RAND_TR401.pdf

Operations Management Of The Hard Rock Cafe

Operations Management Of The Hard Rock Cafe Hard Rock Cafe is one of the worlds leading and well-known brands in restaurant industry. Hard Rock cafe is a chain of casual dining restaurant. First Hard Rock was opened in London, 1971. It was found by Isaac Tigrett and Peter Morton. The mission of Hard Rock is to provide their customers with unique experience and attract new clients. In the 1980s, Hard Rock Cafe was the most popular when some people engaged in the hobby of visiting as many locations as possible and collecting a Hard Rock t-shirt bearing the Cafe logo and the location name. The chain began global expansion in 1982 when Isaac Tigrett and Peter Morton agreed to develop their own cafes across the world. At current date, it has 169 venues in 51 countries worldwide (Hard Rock, 2010). And it continues to grow with several more in the works. The question being raised here is how has a small Hard Rock restaurant that originated in London, England become one of the most well-known brands over the world? Differentiation Strategy The trick is not to play the game better than the competition, but to develop and play an altogether different game. -Professor C. Markides of the London Business School And, yes, Hard Rock has played a different game the experience game! Hard Rock Cafe is using differentiation strategy to achieve competitive advantage on the market. It is considered a smart strategy. They find the ways to differentiate that create value for customers and that are not easily matched or cheaply copied by competitors. Hard Rock sells meals and sells hotel rooms. Many others also do that. Even there are other music related restaurants. But what make the Hard Rock different from others is that it sells a full Rock Roll experience. There is an insatiable appetite for music as a reminder of the moments in ones life and music can generally bring peace in mind and happiness to people. A 20-year-old can come in there and see memorabilia from Godsmack or a 60-year-old can come in and see something from Buddy Holly or Elvis Presley. Music is the tie that binds, regardless of your age. It is also about creating a soundtrack to the brand that people recognise. When the customers go inside, it feels familiar and that is not just because of how it looks, it is the sound. Hard Rock is built on that concept. That is how a brand becomes multidimensional. And they are successful! Hard Rock products are highly valued by customers. Customers develop loyalty to brand and it helps to beat competitors in the marketplace. 10 Operations Management decision making Strategy is the direction and scope of an organisation over the long-term, which achieves advantage in a changing environment through its configuration of resources and competences with the aim of fulfilling stakeholders expectations. The main target of any firm is to create competitive advantage over competitors. To create this advantage, firm has to find a right strategy. Hard Rocks strategy is to provide not only a custom meal from the menu, but the whole experience with a unique visual and sound experience. The customers can find this experience at nowhere else in the world but Hard Rock. And it can be achieved when managers make effective decisions in 10 Areas of Operations Management. They are collectively known as operations decisions. Goods services design: Hard Rock Cafà © provides a unique experience with their goods and services offered at the restaurants. Hard Rock gives many amenities from cafes, to hotels to casinos, to live music and to huge Rock fest concerts. Furthermore, when Hard Rock expanded to global, it specified its menu for local taste due to the social norms. For example, when they expanded their chains to the Unites Stated, they modified their menu with Classic American foods such as hamburgers, chicken wings, and include higher-end items such as stuffed veal chops and lobster tails. And as for the menu of Hard Rock Cafà ©s in British, they focuses more on fish and lobster and less on hamburgers and beef (Heizer Render, p.83). Hard Rock also keeps continuing upgrade their menu to meet the customers requirement. One of the special things about Hard Rock is its music memorabilia collection. Throughout the years, Hard Rock has collected a collection of items which are part of the Rock history. They not only solicit donations of music memorabilia, but they also go around the world and purchase a number of items at auctions. Nowadays, Hard Rock becomes the worlds largest collection of such items. Another key that contribute to the success of Hard Rock Cafà © is the inclusion of its own brand merchandise. About 48% annual revenue of Hard Rock comes from merchandise sales (Heizer Render, p.83). The classic Hard Rock t-shirt was created when the original cafà © sponsored a local football team. The shirts became a popular item and lead to the creation of the line of merchandise that is an important part of Hard Rocks business today. Besides the classic tee, there are many different styles of shirts, hats, jackets, glassware, shot glasses, etc. Many of these items are considered to be collectibles and the customers can generally purchase at Hard Rocks cafà ©, hotel, and casino specific or from its website. Quality: Hard Rock Cafà © defines quality within their properties by conducting numerous surveys to get an honest evaluation from its customers. They pride themselves on quality from the music, food and atmosphere. Their survey is on a scale from 1-7, and anything less than a 7 is considered a failure (Heizer Render, p.56). It means that they want to reach to the customers highest satisfaction. Base on customer surveys and feedback, their menu will be changed with the times to fulfill customer recommendations accordingly. In addition, Hard Rock Cafà © not only focuses on the actual quality of food and merchandise, but also focuses on the visual and auditoria quality as the quality of the unique experience. The experience itself is their product. The employees at Hard Rock Cafà © are responsible for giving the best quality of their services and products to its customers. The waiters, chefs and crews give their effort by means of their services through catering customers and providing them also the best food which meet their taste and preferences. Process capacity design: The process and capacity design is what drives the decision of the locations of their facilities. Hard Rock Cafà © creates products in an efficient manner, by analyzing them for cost effectiveness and by labor requirements. Location selection: Understand that location is a major long-time, and can make or break business strategy; Hard Rock has to choose the right locations strategy to expand its cafe chains. Because of Hard Rocks customers are those who not only patronize the foods they offer, but also love music, Hard Rock Cafà © chains need to choose places which is convenient to its valued customers. In addition, they also should be place in the areas that are fewer competitors as to their line of business. Another important that needed to be concerned is the location decision also needs to be concerned with some challenges such as: political risk, currency risk, and social norms. Hard Rock Cafà © has expanded to more than 157 locations throughout the world. And approximately a 70% of Hard Rock customers are tourists. This is good as far as the best tourist regions are traditionally good markets; however, this strategy also makes Hard Rock to depend on the tourism. For example, when the economy goes downturn, there would be less people who spend their money for travel, it will effect to the productive of Hard Rock. Seeing this disadvantage, Hard Rock develops another strategy is signing a long-term lease for cities that are not standard tourist destination such as Manchester and Birmingham. This is a good move for Hard Rock because it can make Hard Rock less dependent on the tourists (Heizer Render, p.83). Layout design: Hard Rock cafà © exist for 39 years and it expand its business to a global power managing 129 cafes, 12 hotels, casinos, live music venues and a huge Rockfest concert (Heizer Render, p.56). Each cafe is a museum in the environment of a bar-restaurant. The company also added new layouts and memorabilia to its place in order to capture more customers. Lighting, sound, screens, contemporary music and circulation plans are designed to show memorabilia and expose merchandise to customers. Human resource and job design: The layout, memorabilia, music, and videos are important elements in the Hard Rock experience but it falls on the waiters and waitresses to make the experience come alive (Heizer Render, p.445). Hard Rocks philosophy is to hire only candidates who are best qualified. The human resource department supports the overall theme restaurant strategy by giving aggressive screening, including an evaluation of how the employee will contribute to the Hard Rock experience. Their hiring decision is not only on experiences and qualifications, but also on the candidates passionate about music, their ability to tell a story, and convey the experience to customers. These decision criteria ensure that their employees interests and right fit with the company. And that can avoid the hiring mistake, thus reduce the turnover. They give great benefit package and effective indoctrination and training, empowerment. They also accept culture of diversity and focus on team world and even outside volunteer work. Hard Rock also creates a dynamic working environment so that employees want to be a part of a team. They know that as long as they can make the employees feel important and be a part of that team, the employees would want to stay with their employer. Using flexible schedules are also great strategy and could be the difference between employees staying and leaving the restaurant. The human resource department of Hard Rock recognizes that they responsible for a critical element in Hard Rocks strategy. So they must recruit and retain the human capital that is necessary to fulfill that mission and strategy. Supply-chain management: Hard Rock work with qualified suppliers to ensure fresh, quality meals. Menu item selection depends on supplying right amount of ingredients from qualified suppliers on time Inventory: Their inventory consists of unique objects related to rock history, the memorabilia, special decorations and a special menu. The collection includes 1,000s of pieces, worthed at $40 million valued memorabilia are catalogued, each piece is known where to be. Memorabilia of all cafes around the world are renewed each 5-6 years Scheduling: Understanding that scheduling plays an important role to the succesful of Hard Rock. A good scheduling can bring to the organization more effectively by serving customers promtly, and more efficiently by lowering cost (Heizer Render, 647). To have an effective schedulings strategy, Hard Rock Cafe used the scheduling software, and sales forecast. When forecasting sales in service industry, business must consider several factors related to their business. For Hard Rock Cafà ©, they need to take into these considerations: community events in the area, seasonality, holidays, time of day, day of week, sales trend in last couple weeks, and meals served is necessary for effective forecasting of sales. Events happening in the area, and using historical data for the year prior is also an effective way to the sales forecast. Hard Rock Cafà © must understand these factors directly affect sales in the restaurant because by accurate forecasting and giving the customer what they want, they can achieve successful in their business Considering seniority is important in staff scheduling. The employees who have worked for the company for a long time are more experience and more comfortable about the work. Thus, strategically scheduling each of them in each shift will distribute the experience and expertise. Also be noted that 70 % of their guests are tourists so this means that they have to have flexible schedules in their restaurants in order to provide services adapted to different cultures and demands. Maintenance: Hard Rock Cafe is redesigning its restaurant to accommodate the changing its tastes. Kitchen, bar, retail shop layout and equipment maintenance and maintenance of memorabilia. The menu review and surveys are also need to be maintenanced to meet the customers requirement. Expansion into Hanoi As we critically above, by using effectively operations management strategy, The Hard Rock Cafe has become such a successful business. Since the first Hard Rock Cafe opened in 1971, and its name has continued to expand and succeed. Nowadays, The Hard Rock Cafe has become a well-known brand in the world. Considering an expansion of its business into Hanoi, Vietnam there are operations management opportunities and challenges for Hard Rock to be considered. Vietnam is a developing country with a land of opportunities. It is a new emerging market, and is a potential investment destination. The potential for franchise in Vietnam is huge. According to global franchisers, Vietnam is a not place for franchises: a young consumer market, high economic growth and stable politics. The rise of the middle class in Vietnam also presents a growing market opportunity. Opportunities: Products and services design and quality: Vietnamese economy is among the most rapidly growing in Southeast Asia. The economy has been growing steadily at 7-8 percent in recent years. Growing economy point to accelerating poverty reduction, and is seeing living standards rise as disposable income increase. Moreover, Vietnam has a population of more than 80 million, and about two-thirds of Vietnamese aged below 30 years, who are brand-conscious, trendy and adore the Western lifestyle (Vietnam News, 2010). Particularly in the urban areas, consumers demand is surging for higher quality products and services. And the local production cannot satisfy them. Thus, franchising businesses that introduce high-end products and services with a Western lifestyle could help meet that growing demand. Therefore, as for products and services design and quality, Hard Rock is doing extremely well if they expand their business in Hanoi. Hard Rock brand name is well received by local customers who associate them with superior quality, excellent customers service, and a Western life style. Location: Vietnam is definitely a safe place to enter because of the politically stable. Understanding that franchises can create jobs for locals, and that they can help drive its economy, Vietnamese Government boost economic development and stimulus package in the Vietnamese market by using flexible policies, and welcomes foreign investment. In addition, Hanoi is a capital of Vietnam and is also a destination of tourism from many countries. And that is a good fix for Hard Rock because its main target customers are the tourists. Human resource: One of the advantage for Hard Rock open its cafà © in Vietnam is the low cost of labor. Also, there are many young Vietnamese nowadays are really passionate about Rock Roll music, and have the ability to convey the experience to the customer. So its totally not hard for the restaurant to find the right employees that fix to the image of Hard Rock Cafà ©. Supply-chain management: As for the supply-chain management, in Hanoi, Hard Rock can easily find the qualified suppliers to purchase raw materials with a cheap price but still ensure its fresh, quality meals to serve the customers. Challenges: Considering an expansion of its business into Hanoi, and to be successful in Vietnam, Hard Rock Cafà © should take the following concerns into account: Products service design: Hard Rock needs to aware of the cultural differences. They should take local culture, habits, and tastes into consideration and adjusts their market strategy accordingly to be successful in this market. They also have to be sensitive to product pricing and franchising fees for expansion in Hanoi. Vietnamese are very price-conscious and local incomes are substantially lower than many other countries in the region. Moreover, local investors may not be familiar with and are reluctant to invest millions of dollars in a new business concept. This specific of the market will require a flexible approach. Human resource: Another challenge for Hard Rocks human resource when it comes to decision expansion into Hanoi is picking the right master franchisees. This is the most difficult and time-consuming task of all in the global development of Hard Rock franchise. They need to take time to find, evaluate and conduct diligence on master-franchise candidates. They also need to consider the added cost of training and support across many times zones. Conclusion The strategy of Hard Rock has been led by the differentiation. The Hard Rock has made unique its products and its services. Hard Rock Cafà © has brought the concept of the experience economy to its cafe operation. At Hard Rock, the experience concept is not only to offer a custom meal from the menu, but also spread the spirit of rockn roll to its customers. It is successful by using this experience strategy, and Hard Rock Cafà © became a highly recognized brand throughout the world because of its operations management. After carefully evaluated the operations management strategy of Hard Rock Cafà © and considered all the opportunities and challenges for Hard Rock Cafà © when considering an expansion of its business into Hanoi, I strongly believe that the business will be going successful on this market. With a large young consumers market, growing disposable income, stable politic, and also as the locals are becoming more receptive to international brands; Vietnam is definitely a good destination and a perfect time for Hard Rock Cafà © to enter to the market and franchise its brand.

Martyrdom and September 11th :: Martyr Islam Muslim 9/11 9-11 Terrorism Terrorist

On September the 11th 2001, the international crisis of terrorism exploded in America. The dark cloud that loomed over lower Manhattan eventually cleared but the reality of the American entrance into the battlefield of terror didn’t dissipate. When President Bush addressed his stunned and grieving nation, he declared a crusade on terrorists and all who harbored them, and â€Å"when [his] remarks were translated into Arabic for broadcast throughout the Middle East, the word crusade was rendered as ‘war of the cross’† (Carrol 5). This religious reference rang true to those terrorists who had attacked the World Trade Center; all were members of Osama Bin Laden's terrorist network Al Qaeda. The group is a militant Islamist organization that believes those who commit acts like those of September 11th are martyrs, welcomed into eternal paradise. The phenomenon of martyrdom is not exclusive to Islam. By definition, a martyr is â€Å"one who voluntarily suffers death rather than deny his religion by words or deeds; such action is afforded special, institutionalized recognition in most major religions of the world†¦the term may also refer to anyone who sacrifices his life or something of great value for the sake of principle† (Britannica). The word is derived from the Greek word for witness. Throughout the ages, willingness to die for a noble cause has been a persistent idea. In three of the world’s major religions- Judaism, Christianity and Islam, martyrdom has played a significant role. In Judaism, the concept of martyrdom is referred to as Kiddush Hashem which means sanctification of God's name. This definition includes refusal to renounce the word of God for reasons of convenience or to save one’s life. According to Judaic beliefs, Abraham, the first Hebrew patriarch, was thrown into a furnace for denouncing idolatry. Though he was saved by God, his brush with death made him the first martyr of the Jewish faith. During medieval times, Jews were persecuted by Christians throughout Europe, and were frequently put to death for crimes such as blood libel and host desecration1. Many Jews were forced to flee Spain during the Inquisition to avoid being unjustly persecuted under the pretense of similar offenses. These martyrs were usually burned at the stake. In the 1940’s Hitler systematically slayed over six million Jews during the reign of the Third Reich. These are just a few examples of martyrs of Judaism. In early Christianity, all believers were considered martyrs. Later, this distinction was reserved for those who refused to renounce their faith and suffered as a result, whether they were injured or killed. Eventually, only those who were killed for their beliefs were considered martyrs.

Appearance vs. Reality in Peter Shaffers Amadeus Essay -- Peter Shaff

Appearance vs. Reality in Peter Shaffer's Amadeus In the world of the 18th century, appearance was everything; and appearance often conflicted with reality. Such is the case in Peter Shaffer’s, Amadeus, which follows Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s musical career. Mozart’s career was enveloped in deceit and falsity, appearing to be brought on by poor choices he made, when all along he was being sabotaged by Salieri. When Mozart arrives in Vienna, Antonio Salieri pretends to welcome him. He even writes a welcome March for Mozart, to be played as the young, rebellious musician enters the court. However, Salieri hates Mozart from the beginning. Salieri is nice to Mozart’s face, and pretends to support his career to all other parties concerned. Salieri is, in fact, nice to everyone’s face. As several officials are conversing, Salieri comments to the audience on their personality. â€Å"Johann von Strack. Royal Chamberlain. A court official to his collar bone,† â€Å"Baron van Swieten. Prefect of the Imperial Library. Ardent Freemason. Yet to find anything funny...† (Amadeus, 11) Salieri continues to interject throughout the mens’ conversation until he is included. Salieri is jealous of Mozart’s musical ability. While it appears to everyone the Salieri is the most talented musician in Vienna, he, himself, knows that Mozart’s music is much deeper than his own. Salieri vents his jealousy when he states, â€Å"We were both ordinary men, he and I. Yet he from the ordinary created legends-and I from legends greeted only the ordinary† (Amadeus, 63). Mozart and his wife, Constanza, are starving. They are living in extreme poverty. All of this is because of Antonio Salieri. whose plan is revealed to the audience in his conversation with Emperor Joseph. He says, â€Å"Then grant him Gluck’s post, Majesty, but not his salary. That would be wrong† (Amadeus, 64). He then turns around to Mozart who is angry about the payment he is receiving and says, â€Å"I’m sorry it’s made you angry. I’d not have suggested it if I’d known you’d be distressed....I regret I was not able to do more† (Amadeus, 65). Salieri pretends that he got Mozart as much money as he could, when in reality, he kept him from a great deal more. The real showing of Salieri’s true colors comes out in the last few scenes of the play. After the death of Mozart’s father... .... â€Å"Hate is a poison you cannot withstand.† (Amadeus, 81). Salieri got his wish for fame in the end. He reflects on this, â€Å"I was to become quite simply the most famous musician in Europe!...This was my sentence! I must endure thirty years of being called â€Å"distinguished† by people incapable of distinguishing!...I must smell as I wrote it the deadness of my music...† (Amadeus, 85). While he had what he had always wanted, and he appeared to be on top of the world, reality remained. He was not happy. He did not have to gift he had long wanted. And though the public praised and shouted to him, he knew exactly what it was worth. While Mozart’s life appears to be a series of mistakes, and poor choices he has made, the truth is, he was sabotaged. His life was a game for Antonio Salieri to act out his jealousies and insecurities. But Salieri, in the end, is more unhappy with his life without Mozart, than he was when Mozart was alive. Works Cited Amadeus. Shaffer, Peter. Samuel French, Inc. New York. 1980. http://www.albemarle-london.com/amadeus.html. Accessed, March 15, 2001 http://www.imagi-nation.com/moonstruck/clsc69.html. Accessed, March 17, 2001

Tda 2.5 Schools as Organisations

TDA 2. 5 Schools as organisations Task 1 Links to learning outcome 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, assessment criteria 1. 1, 1. 2, 2. 1, 2. 2, 2. 3, 3. 1, 3. 2, 3. 3, 4. 1, 4. 2, 5. 1, 5. 2, 6. 1, 6. 2 and 6. 3. †¢Identify the main types of state and independent schools †¢Describe the characteristics of the different types of schools in relation to educational stage(s) and school governance †¢Describe roles and responsibilities of: -School governors -Senior management team -Other statutory roles e. g. SENCO -Teachers †¢Describe the roles of external professionals who may work with a school e. g. ducational psychologist †¢Define the meaning of: -Aims -Values †¢Describe with examples how schools may demonstrate and uphold their aims †¢Describe with examples how schools may demonstrate and uphold their values †¢Identify the laws and codes of practice affecting work in schools †¢Describe why school have policies and procedures †¢Identify the policie s and procedures school may have relating to: -Staff -Pupil welfare -Teaching and learning †¢Identify the roles and responsibilities of national and local government for education policy and practice †¢Describe the role of schools in national olicies relating to children, young people and families †¢Describe the roles of other organisations working with children and young people and how these may impact on the work in schools. Identify the main types of state and independent schools Links to learning outcome 1, assessment criteria 1. 1 AND Describe the characteristics of the different types of schools in relation to educational stage(s) and school governance Links to learning outcome 1, assessment criteria 1. 2 All children in England between the ages of 5 and 16 are entitled to a free place at a state school. There are four main types of state schools that receive funding from the local authority. They all follow the national curriculum and are regularly inspected by OFSTED. Community schools – Run by the local authority, which employ the staff, own the lands and building, and decides which admissions criteria to use. Community schools have strong links with the local community and they usually offer their facilities for childcare and adult learning classes. (I do work placement at a community school) Foundation and trust schools – Foundation schools are run by their own governing body, which employs the staff and sets the admissions criteria. Land and buildings are owned by the governing body or a charitable foundation. Trust schools are like foundation schools but they have an outside partnership which forms a charitable trust. The outside partner could be a business or educational charity. They try to explore new way of working to raise standards. The governing body decides whether to become a trust school with parents having a say. Voluntary-aided schools – Are mainly religious or faith schools. The governing body employs staff and sets the admissions criteria. The school buildings and land is owned by a charity hich could be a religious organisation. They also appoint some of the members of the governing body. Voluntary-controlled schools- Are similar to voluntary-aided schools, but are run by the local authority. The local authority employs the staff and set the admissions criteria. The land and buildings and land are owned by a charity usually a religious organisation, which also appoint some members of the g overning body. There are; Specialist schools- which follow the National Curriculum and focus on a particular subject area like, sports, media or technology. Academies- which are independently managed, they are set up by sponsors from business, faith or voluntary groups in partnership with the Department for Education (DfE) and the local authority. Together they fund the land and buildings, with the government covering the running costs. City Technology Colleges- These are independently managed, non-fee-paying schools in urban areas for pupils of all abilities aged 11 to 18. They are geared towards science, technology and the world of work, offering a range of vocational qualifications as well as GCSEs and A levels. Community and foundation special schools- cater for children with specific special educational needs. These may include physical disabilities or learning difficulties. Faith schools- are mostly run in the same way as other state schools. However, their faith status may be reflected in their religious education curriculum, admissions criteria and staffing policies. Grammar schools- select all or most of their pupils based on academic ability. Maintained boarding schools- offer free tuition, but charge fees for board and lodging. Independent schools- set their own curriculum and admissions policy is usually decided by the governing body and head teacher. They are funded by fees paid by parents and income from investments. Just over half have charitable status. They have to be registered with the DfE, and regularly monitored by OFSTED. http://www. direct. gov. uk/en/Parents/Schoolslearninganddevelopment/ChoosingASchool/DG_4016312 Describe roles and responsibilities of: -School governors -Senior management team -Other statutory roles e. g. SENCO -Teachers Links to learning outcome 2, assessment criteria 2. 1 School governors- work with the school, they work in partnership with the headteacher and staff. Governors do not intervene with the day to day running of the school, unless there is a serious problem. The governing body is also responsible for making sure that the schools finances are managed appropriately. It is also responsible for staffing and personnel management. They will also make decisions on issues involving the curriculum and whether to write new policies. Senior management team- Is responsible for taking interviews, inductions, performance monitoring, and appraisals. They can also deal with complaints and issues with colleagues. Deal with courses and career development. They can hold staff meetings, also be responsible for child protection issues. Have general information about policies. Sort out salary queries. Other statutory roles e. g. SENCO- This person is responsible for coordinating the special needs policies in a setting and advising staff. They will be the line of contact for any outside agencies that need to come into the school to look at individual children with special needs. Teachers- are responsible for the education and welfare of the children in the reception classes and for the communication with Parents and all members of the School community. Specific responsibilities: CURRICULUM †¢ Provide a broad, balanced curriculum based on the Foundation Stage †¢ Plan effectively, using learning objectives, producing long-term, mid term and weekly plans †¢ Organise an appropriate timetable, following School’s guidelines †¢ Arrange visits out of school for the children, to extend learning opportunities †¢ Arrange visitors to come to school, to enrich learning and encourage enquiry ASSESSMENT †¢ Assess children regularly, both formally and informally †¢ Observe individual children in different situations and involved in different activities †¢ Use Baseline Assessment †¢ Keep up to date profiles for all children †¢ Use assessment results to plan appropriate learning programmes Describe the roles of external professionals who may work with a school e. g. educational psychologist Links to learning outcome 2, assessment criteria 2. 2 EDUCATIONAL PSYCOLOGIST Educational psychologists consider how children learn, so are used to helping to identify learning difficulties. They visit schools and settings regularly and work alongside parents and professionals in the setting. PHYSIOTHERAPIST A physiotherapist helps to identify a child’s main physical problems while working alongside other professionals and parents. SPEECH AND LANGUAGE THERAPIST Speech and language therapists work with children who have some difficulties with their language. COMMUNITY PAEDIATRICIAN Paediatricians are manly based in hospitals and clinics. They have specialised training in children’s medicine and children are referred to them via their family doctor for diagnosis. They make regular assessments of hildren’s progress and medical needs. They are able to refer children to other health services such as speech and language therapy and dieticians. COMMUNITY NURSE In some areas community nurses visit schools and settings to help provide advice and support. Integrating health and education is a major focus for the Every Child Matters programme, so some early yea r’s centres will have a community based at the centre. FAMILY DOCTOR (GP) A GP has general training in medicine. GP’s form part of the community health team and act as a base for a child’s ongoing medical treatment and notes. CHILD PSYCHIATRIST Children or young people who are showing depression or emotional difficulties may be referred to child psychiatrist. A child psychiatrist has been trained as a doctor specialising in mental health and is able to prescribe medication as well as being able to consider the underlying issues behind a child’s emotional state. CHILD PSYCHOTHERAPIST A child psychotherapist will work with children or young people who are showing emotional distress by talking through their experiences with them and helping the child to explore these. CHILD PSYCHOLOGIST A child psychologist looks at child’s development and learning in a similar way to an educational psychologist. The main difference between their roles is that a child psychologist may support children in a range of different settings rather than just in the educational context. PLAY THERAPIST A play therapist helps children to explore trauma or experiences through the medium of play. EDUCATIONAL WELFARE OFFICER/EDUCATION SOCIAL WORKER The main function of these professionals is to liaise between home and families in cases where school attendance is infrequent. It is an offence for children over 5 years old not to be in some sort of full-time educational programme. ) SPECIAL NEEDS SUPPPORT TEACHER These teachers travel between schools to visit young people or children in their home or pre-school settings. They are able to help a wide range of children and are often seen as useful sources of support and guidance. CLASSROOM ASSISTANT/LEARNING SUPPORT ASSISTANT Their main purpose is to support an individual child, young person or a group of children or young people within a classroom under direction of the teacher. Social worker The majority of social workers are employed by the local authority, although some are employed by voluntary organisations. They are generally deployed in teams according to specialist areas, for example social workers may be involved in caring for older clients, adoption or fostering work. Social workers can provide guidance and advice as well as practical support for families. RESPITE CARERS Respite carers look after children for short periods of time so that their parents can have some time out. CARERS AND BENEFIT ADVISORS Some settings have career and benefits advisors as part of the team. They can help parents find employment and training courses and give them advice about claiming benefit. Define the meaning of: -Aims -Values Links to learning outcome 2, assessment criteria 2. 3 Aims and Values are usually set out in the schools mission statement. Aims- explain what the school wants to achieve. They are usually set out by the head teacher with support from the community and parents. Values- can be determined by the schools rules, usually include respect for self and others and are closely related to Personal, Social, Health and Economic education (PSHE) and citizenship education. Values are based on moral code. The mission statement from the school I do my work placement at; All children will receive an education that is broad and balanced, that develops their potential and is suited to their needs. They will be given opportunities to discover and develop their talents through curricular and extracurricular activities. The ethos and curriculum of the school will instil values that will encourage independence, self esteem and respect for others. Describe with examples how schools may demonstrate and uphold their aims Links to learning outcome 3, assessment criteria 3. 1 Schools may demonstrate and uphold their aims in a mission statement. For example the school where I do work placement explains that they are committed to encouraging the children to reach their full potential whatever their needs. Describe with examples how schools may demonstrate and uphold their values Links to learning outcome 3, assessment criteria 3. 2 Schools may demonstrate and uphold their values in a mission statement. The mission statement from the school where I do my work placement states that the curriculum and ethos of the school will encourage self esteem, independence and respect for others. Identify the laws and codes of practice affecting work in schools Links to learning outcome 3, assessment criteria 3. 3 There are some laws and codes of practice that affect work in schools which are; Children’s Act 2004; Disability Discrimination Act 1995 and Special Educational Needs Code of Practice; Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. Children’s Act 2004 -it was passed to make sure that duties would be put on local authorities to ensure that all the different services that work with children and their families work more efficiently together. Data Protection Act 1998 – Schools are required to keep information secure and it can only be used for the purpose it was gathered for. Disability Discrimination Act 1995 and Special Educational Needs Code of Practice- Schools are not to discriminate against disabled children this has led to more disabled children in mainstream schools. Health and Safety at Work Act 1974- Designed to protect everyone within the school and give procedures to follow in the event of an accident. Identify the policies and procedures school may have relating to: -Staff -Pupil welfare -Teaching and learning

Hansson Private Label

Vent Consulting Expansion and Risk at Hansson Private Label, Inc. Evaluating Investment in the Goliath Facility HBS#4021 Vent Consulting takes pleasure in presenting our Hanson Private Label’s (HPL) capital expansion executive summary. We carefully reviewed all applicable case materials and believe we have quantified your primary risks, benefits, and most attractive course of action. 1) HPL has performed exceptionally well since inception in 1992. Financial statements show that operating revenues have increased from $503. 4M in 2003 to $680. 7M in 2007.During this time, gross operating profit increased by $24. 3M. This illustrates that the company is not sacrificing profits for top level growth. Capital replenishment matches or exceeds depreciation. Net income increased during the same time span by $9. 6M. The revenue gross margin has averaged 7. 8% growth and the gross margins have averaged 18. 6% over the last five years, while net income has averaged 5. 3%. Dividends have b een paid to stockholders. Cash flow from operations has increased steadily. The cash from investing has fluctuated from a low of $5. M in 2006 to a high of $7. 8M in 2003, indicating an overall conservative strategy of controlled expansion. HPL used more cash in financing in 2006 and 2007 than in previous years, which may contribute to future growth. To reinforce the company’s financial performance: †¢Total assets have grown over the years to a high of $380. 8M in 2007 †¢Long-term debt is at a five year low at $54. 8M †¢Net working capital is at a five year high of $102. 5M All four plants under HPL are operating at 90% capacity and a focus on conservative efficiency has led to strong financial performance.Comparatively speaking, HPL’s 9. 26% EBITDA ratio is stronger than industry competition, another indicator of strong earnings and management. 2) Vent Consulting’s analytical summary is provided in Appendix 1. Note the calculated NPV of $4,971 an d IRR of 11. 1% at tab NPV-BASLINE. Given an accepted discount rate of 9. 38%, both the positive NPV and the positive 1. 7% IRR spread on this investing type project initially indicate a rewarding proposal. Additionally, the calculated profitability index of 1. 11 suggests the project should be pursued.Note that the discounted payback period is just under 7 years, 4 years beyond the contractual commitment under consideration with HPL’s largest retail customer. 3) Sensitivity analysis reveals interesting factors, however. Note in the additional tabs: †¢Ramping up capacity utilization to 85% in 3 years instead of the projected 5 years yields a full 2% IRR increase. †¢If aggressive marketing can capture secondary demand from competitors and increase capacity utilization from 85% to 95% in years 4 through 10, IRR is increased to 14. 8%. †¢The project is very sensitive to unit selling price.If expected annual growth in sales price rises from 2% to just 3. 5%, IRR ri ses a full 6. 7% to 17. 8%. †¢The project is also very sensitive to commodity costs. A small . 5% increase in expected inflation from 1. 0% to 1. 5% annual raw material costs reduce baseline IRR calculations to 9. 5%, making the project unattractive compared to the 9. 38% discount rate. †¢Improved capital planning yields expected improved project returns. The last tab illustrates a potential improvement of 2. 5% IRR. Given this information, Vent Consulting has identified 3 courses of action (COA): 1) Accept the capital expansion proposal as written by Mr.Gates 2) Accept the retailer ‘s 3–year contract, but reduce capital risk by reducing the scale of expansion, improving the use of working capital and sub-contracting production shortfalls to other producers. 3) Maintain status quo and reject the retailer contract Despite the positive NPV, Vent Consulting recommends rejection of COA 1 due to the following uncontained risk factors: †¢Required capital expans ion and associated financing does not match the proposed customer contract, adding uncontrolled capacity utilization risk.This risk is compounded by a lack of customer diversification. †¢Difficult-to-predict sales price and raw material cost variables also add significant uncovered risk. Vent Consulting also recommends rejection of COA 3. This course of action would propagate HPL’s growing â€Å"cash cow† business model, and sacrifice an ideal opportunity to improve company performance and steal market share in cooperation with one of the largest industry retailers. We strongly recommend COA 2, which apitalizes on market opportunity while minimizing the significant risk of the original proposal. Specifically: †¢Reduce capital expansion to 40% of proposed project. †¢Improve capital management †¢Dedicate primary capacity to key/primary retail customer(s) †¢Sub-contract production shortfalls to other producers for lessor retailers/customers Vent C onsulting is eager to provide additional recommendations on how this is would be best accomplished — for a fee — once we’ve completed another few Themes.

An Apology Letter Essay

The electron microscope was first created in 1933 and magnified up to a million times. First electron microscope was a transmission. It used electrons to recreate an image. Scanning electron microscope developed later, it uses a beam of particles to scan across specimen to recreate image of its surface. They are used for the viewing of biological and inorganic species. Electron microscope has higher resolution than light microscope allowing higher magnification. Light microscope has limited magnification as there is a physical limit imposed by photons. The stereomicroscope has low level of magnification, but gives 3-D view. Electron microscopes give a view of structures that would not normally be visible by optical microscopy. Bonus to light microscopes is that it is possible to view living cells, in the electron microscope the specimen must be dry so it is not possible to observe the living. Anti-body viruses were first observed by electron microscope in 1941. Electron tomography ha s demonstrated the structure of viruses. Had discovers with cell ultrastructure’s and individual atoms have been observed. It has viewed nerve and muscle cells and various pollen has been observed. The compound light microscope or optical microscope is a piece of technology that uses light and magnifying lenses to observe small objects which cannot be seen by the naked eye. The ingenious theory behind light and magnification combined; forms a complex enhancement of specimen identification/observation. Light microscopes enable more opportunities for knowledge in biology, research, and material science. The light microscope can magnify up to a whopping 1,500 times! Therefore the specimen has to be small enough for light to pass through it and it displays a 2D view of the specimen. The compound light microscope is able to have one eyepiece (monocular) or two eyepieces (binocular) to look through. Light microscopes were used to discover a very important specimen. They were used to discover cells such as blood cells. The stereo microscope is known as the optical microscope. It has low magnification. It reflects light off the specimen, it has two separate optical paths and is used to study solid specimens. The primary use for the stereomicroscope is looking at large and solid surfaces or specimens. The microscope allows for detailed work such as microsurgery, watch making and circuit board manufacturing. When Robert Hooke published his book Micrographia in 1665 it became a best seller. Hooke had made one of the first microscopes. With it, he observed many types of living things and  made accurate drawings of what he saw, as his detailed picture of the flea shows (Figure 1.4). Hooke’s most famous achievement, as far as science was concerned, was his diagram of very thin slices of cork (Figure 1.5). He was surprised to see that, under the microscope, the cork looked like a piece of honeycomb. He described the ‘holes’ and their boundaries in the ‘honeycomb’ as cells because they reminded him of the rooms in a monastery. Hooke had discovered plant cells. Although some called Micrographia ‘the most ingenious book ever’, others ridiculed Hooke for spending so much time and money on ‘trifling pursuits’. Thankfully for us, and for the whole science of microbiology, which developed from this discovery of cells, Hooke ignored the taunts and kept experimenting with microscopes. It was because of Hooke’s important contribution to microbiology that other scientists went on to develop a further understanding of cells. Cell theory describes the main ideas about the importance of cells and their role in living things. It was first proposed in 1839 by two German biologists, Theodor Schwann and Matthias Schleiden. In 1858, Rudolf Virchow concluded the final part of the classic cell theory. The combined cell theory included the following three principles: all organisms are composed of one or more cells cells are the basic unit of life and structure new cells are created from existing cells. Any living thing that has more than one cell is referred to as multicellular, but there are many living things, such as bacteria, that consist of only one cell! These are called single-celled or unicellular organisms. Micro-organisms are often referred to as microbes. You probably know people who wear glasses to help them read. The glass or plastic lenses magnify the size of the text. In the same way, microscopes magnify the size of the object placed under them. The first microscopes were very basic. However, over time their magnifying ability has improved. Scientists can now look at images that have been magnified thousands of times using various systems of lenses. This makes it possible to study the structure of cells. The stereomicroscope is used for viewing larger objects, such as insects (Figure 1.15). It can magnify up to 200 times and shows a three-dimensional view of  small things. The compound light microscope (Figure 1.16) is used to observe thin slices of specimens, such as blood cells. It can magnify up to 1500 times. Its view is flat—that is, two dimensional. The specimen must be thin enough to allow light to pass through it. The stereomicroscope has two eyepieces to look through, whereas the compound light microscope can have one or two eyepieces. The word monocular is used to describe a microscope with one eyepiece (mono = one). Microscopes with two lenses are called binocular (bi = two). The compound light microscope uses the effect of two lenses (one in the eyepieces and one further down the column called the objective lens) combined with light to give a greater magnification. It can be used to observe much smaller things than those seen under a stereomicroscope. To look at cells clearly through a compound light microscope, very thin layers of a sample must be used. The light has to be able to get through or all you will see is a dark shadow—a bit like a leadlight window. Most cells are clear in colour, so a stain, like iodine, is used to help make them more visible by providing contrast. Although light microscopes, like the compound light microscope and stereomicroscope, had served scientists well for more than 300 years, the explosion of new technology in the 20th century led to the invention of more complex microscopes, such as electron microscopes. An electron microscope uses electrons (tiny negatively charged particles) to create images. The first electron microscope, the transmission electron microscope (TEM), was invented in 1933 to help study the structure of metals. The scanning electron microscope (SEM), developed later, uses a beam of electrons to scan across a specimen and to recreate the image, showing details of its surface. Electron microscopes can magnify up to a million times! Using this technology, many more details of the cell that were formerly invisible to scientists are now beginning to be understood. The development of the synchrotron is one of the biggest changes to microscopes. Synchrotrons are ‘microscopes’ that are about the size of a football field and cost a fortune to build. The synchrotron provides even more magnification than an electron microscope and can ‘see’ down to the level of the molecules (particles) that make up substances. There are currently forty-three synchrotrons across the world. Australia’s synchrotron opened in 2007 and is located near Monash University, in Melbourne. There are many beneficial applications of  synchrotron science. For example, researchers can use the synchrotron to invent ways to tackle diseases, make plants more productive and metals more resilient.