A day everything went right free essay sample

Life has ups and downs, high and lows. Sometimes you feel as if you are on top of the world, other times you feel as if everyone and everything has turned against you. It is not very often that I feel as if Im on top of the world or that things go my way for that matter. I recall a day when everything went as I expected. Everything seemed to go smoothly it was a day when everything went right. One boring evening during first quarter break while looking though old pictures in my phone I started thinking of how much Ive enjoyed Napa every time Ive gone, and how much i missed it so, I thought I should take my mom on a day trip to Napa Valley since she had never been. I decided to call my cousins and asked if they wanted to join; they agreed, so we decided on meeting up in Napa Valley the very next day. We will write a custom essay sample on A day everything went right or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page The next morning,I got up early to get ready for the day ahead of me. My mom and I packed a few things to make sandwiches and some fruit among other things for a picnic, and we were on our way to Napa Valley. The one and a half hour car drive went smooth there was no traffic, and it was a great opportunity to chat with each other. As we got into Napa, we stopped at a few nice places to take pictures, before meeting with my cousins and arriving at our destination. We finally arrived at Castello di Amorosa a Tuscan style castle and winery where we met my cousins. We started off with a guided tour of the castle where we learned about the architecture and different styles of the castle, got to enjoy the breathtaking views from the towers of the castle and got to see different tunnels, wine cellars and even the torture room. Our tour ended in the cool basement of the castle where we got to sample some italian wines including my favorite sparkling dessert wine La Fantasia. Our next stop was Sterling vineyards; This was my fist time at this winery so I had no idea what to expect. We took a gondola to the actual winery which sat on top of a giant hill. The views on the gondola ride to the top were beautiful. There was a giant pond with lily pads and a fountain and we were even able to see Castello di Amorosa in the distance. once at the top of the hill We were greeted with a wine glass which we got to keep and a tasting of the 2012 Malvasia Bianca (this was my favorite at this winery). We were then told to feel free to take a self guided tour. The tour ended on the upper deck where we were able to sit down, relax with our last wine tasting, some cheese,crackers and cold cuts and enjoy the amazing views of napa valley. The next and final stop was old faithful geyser in Calistoga  where we had a family picnic, and got to see and feel some farm animals. We also learned about hot springs and best of all got to see a geyser erupt. Its not often that I have days when everything goes right, most of the time it is the complete opposite. This day was perfect; the weather was nice, the wineries were exciting and informative, and the company was the best part. I am looking forward to another day like this.

buy custom Nursing Essay Example About Fraud in Electronic Health Records

buy custom Nursing Essay Example About Fraud in Electronic Health Records EHR and Nursing Practice Introduction The integration of technology into every dimension of health care has been crucial in promoting patient monitoring, assessment and eventually treatment. Most of the contemporary changes realized in nursing and the entire healthcare industry are due to technology. As a result, nursing informatics remains a key part of technology utilized by nurses in the course of healthcare provision. Furthermore, electronic healthcare records (EHR) has equally changed documentation of patient information as well as the overall provision of patient care. However, EHR fraud risks has emerged as a hot issue that threatens to render technology and informatics ineffective and inefficient in offering necessary patient care. In light of this, the paper involves the rationale for selecting the health IT topic of electronic health records, the arguments for its pros and cons, the informatics skills, conclusion and recommendations for the future. In essence, the integration of technology into every dimension of healthcare sector improves patient outcomes by ensuring efficiency is maintained.

Report Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 17

Report - Essay Example The time in our possession was limited since we had to research on the various aspects of the course. It is from these discussions that my knowledge of the essentials of time management and the vital role team work plays in solving problems was enhanced. Together with my colleagues, we assigned ourselves various roles and laid down a specific time interval for completion of various individual tasks at hand. The first task was to identifying the various professional careers available for computer science graduates. My group came up with the following careers (Burns, 2002, p23), and it was my responsibility to identify them. My contribution regarding this issue was good, and this opened my eyes to know the level of confidence in my possession. My next presentation will be by use of power-point to emphasize strongly my points and it involved addressing issues and skills that employers look for in graduates of computer science. We identified the following skills, My contribution in this task was awesome since my main role was supervisory. Under my leadership, my group came up with various skills employers look for. This was a more significant contribution as compared to my previous contribution. From this task, skills under my possession were identified and thereafter, giving them a score from 1 to 5. I met the requirements of the session and acquired skills in time management and communication. There was an improvement on my team work skills since working with my colleagues was beneficial to me. The discussions with my group enabled me to identify indicators of poor communication skills and thereafter learn on ways of improving on them. Indicators of poor communication skills are numerous (Samova et al, 2010, p28), and the following were identified, Later on, we came up with ways on how to market ourselves to prospective employers and develop Curriculum Vitae that effectively sells our stronger points. We learned that most employers, while reviewing their

Ergonomics Research Proposal Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Ergonomics - Research Proposal Example Hence, a reasonable application of the principles of ergonomics diminishes the disorders and injuries caused due to repetitive motion, faulty posture and an over use of body muscles. This can be achieved by taking into consideration the physical abilities and concerns of the employees while fabricating various attributes of the workplace environment like tasks, hardware, space, lighting, controls, storage space, etc (MacLeod 2006). The primary concern of ergonomics is to optimally enhance the element of comfort at workplace so as to make way for maximum efficiency. Thus the human-machine interface at work should be so arranged so as to extend the desirable physical and mental comfort to the employees. This definitely enhances the efficiency and productivity at work by making the scheduled and general tasks relatively easier and facile. Therefore, ergonomics can play a positive role in bettering the scope of human resources in any institution and organization (Helander 2005). Though the advent of digital gadgets like the computers, fax machines, telephones, scanners, photocopiers, etc has added a measure of speed and accuracy to the work culture, such devices certainly have physical and mental issues associated with them. ... ning and faulty usage of digital gadgets could lead to a counterproductive compromising of the comfort associated with the back, shoulder, neck and wrist movements, which is so cardinal to the overall health and productivity of the employees (Wogalter 2006). In order to enable the individual employees to find out their desirable comfort zone, it is imperative for the digital hardware installed in the office to comply with ergonomic principles. In fact the manufacturers now days are trying their best to come out with the customized lines of ergonomic digital gadgets. Besides there is a growing awareness amongst the employers regarding the benefits of hardware ergonomics (Stein et al 2006). A more then average initiative is being taken by the manufacturers and the organizations to incorporate the elements of cutting-edge ergonomics at work to reduce stress, to stimulate productivity and to diminish employee absenteeism. Introducing ergonomics in the designing of office furniture and di gital gadgets like offering adjustable chairs with lumbar support, right sized desks, adjustable keyboards, trackballs, good lighting, low glare monitors can do wonders for the work environment in an office (Alexander 2006).2.0 PURPOSE OF THE REPORT The purpose of this report is to redesign a workplace for two employees (124cmx75cm), in coherence with the principles of ergonomics (Picture 1). The office under consideration is equipped with an array of digital gadgets and furniture like computers, printer, coffee maker, cupboards, desks, chairs, which are not placed in compliance with the employee comfort. There is no denying the fact that digital gadgets though being efficiency multipliers have physical and mental issues associated with them,

A lawyers dilemma using Natural Law and Utilitarianism moral theories Essay

A lawyers dilemma using Natural Law and Utilitarianism moral theories - Essay Example In other words, a legal system which cannot be justified by its reason has no power. According to natural law, as defined in encyclopedia Britannica online, humans have the right to make moral judgments, and this is the true law; not the arbitrary power of the state. As Donald (n.d.) states, the proponents of natural law point out that people are naturally capable of knowing what they need to do in order to lead the life that they are physically fitted to live. Thus, one can undoubtedly say that the lawyers were bound by natural law to disclose the details of the death of his daughter to the person who came to them seeking details. Worsening the situation, they could not reveal the same in the court too as revealing the same was against ‘the letter and spirit of their professional duty’. A look into the case proves that Garrow was taking this contradiction with state law and natural law for granted. This was the reason why he disclosed the whole story to the lawyers and then tried to hide the same in the Court and acted as if he was insane. In fact, this is a classic example of the situations in which people defeat humanity taking advantage of the deficiency in man-made laws and the contradiction between state law and natural law.

Economic Downturn Effects On The Uk Hotel Industry Economics Essay

Economic Downturn Effects On The Uk Hotel Industry Economics Essay The UK hotel industry, as well as the hotel industry world wide, has been hit hard by the recession which started at the end of 2007 and is predicted by many to last until at least 2010. In the course of a few months the UKs economy has gone from boom to crisis and by early 2009 the attitudes and beliefs of consumers and businesses in the marketplace had altered radically from previous optimism (Mintel Reforecasts 2009 [online]). Prior to the credit crunch which commenced in August 2007 when the European Central Bank and the US Federal Reserve put  £45bn into the financial markets (Elliott 2008 [online]), Europe, the USA and the UK were enjoying an economic boom with rising house prices and high consumer confidence (Budworth 2008 [online]). Gross Domestic Product (GDP) rose to  £381,565 Million in 2007, and household disposable income per capita to  £14,321 in the same year (Key Note 2008, p. 18). During these boom years, lending was high and borrowers able to raise large sums of money due to relaxed lending restrictions by banks. Individuals whose circumstances would have at one time barred them from borrowing were allowed to access many times their salary (Budworth 2008 [online]). Debts secured upon property were sold on to investors. Property prices thus became vastly inflated creating a bubble which burst when borrowers started to default on their loans and the value of the investments therefore fel l heavily. The huge losses by the banks leading to the collapse of Lehman Brothers in the US and the near collapse of Northern Rock in the UK meant that lending became much more difficult and banks stricter about who they lend money to. (Budworth 2008 [online]). The resulting shortage of funds due to fears about lending and lack of loans has led to a downturn in the economy, falling house prices and increasing unemployment with many firms going out of business altogether and many more making drastic savings (Budworth 2008 [online]). Further consequences include a vast increase in public spending which is predicted to take years to pay off, a predicted rise in unemployment (by the British Chamber of Commerce) to 3.2 million, wage freezes or cuts and massive job losses (The Economy News 2009 [online]). The collapse in available credit started in the USA but in these days of global trading the implications were soon felt around the world with the UK quickly facing problems. Germany, Fr ance and Italy the three largest economies in the Eurozone were officially in recession by late 2008, and others rapidly followed suit. Both Spain and Ireland have witnessed a housing bubble burst and contraction in wider economic activity (Foresight 2008, p. 7). 2.2 The Pound Against the Euro and Dollar One factor that complicates the situation somewhat is the pounds weak status against the Euro and Dollar. Sterling has lost value rapidly over the last year or so. In July 2008, one pound would still buy $2, but by November 2008 it was worth only $1.48, the lowest point for 6 years. Similarly at one point  £1 was almost equal in value to 1 Euro. While this is bad news for people buying goods or traveling outside the UK, it also means that UK goods and services become more attractively priced from the point of view of Eurozone or USA travellers (OGrady 2008 [Online]). Specifically, hotels in the UK will appear relatively cheaper since this fall in the value of sterling, and hence more attractive to inbound travellers and tourists. At the same time, it means it is less attractive for the UK holidaymaker to travel to the Eurzone or USA, and more attractive to stay at home. 3. Hotel Industry Background 3.1 Introduction The Growth Years to 2007 Hotel operators in the UK cater both to the corporate sector and consumer sector. Both are significant parts of their operations and both includes not just accommodation but also facilities such as meeting and conference rooms in the case of the corporate sector and add-on services like food and beverages for both sectors. The UK has been historically an important business destination with the growing importance of the London stock market and financial sector (Key Note 2008, p. 11). In the consumer sector most activity is accounted for by holidays and short breaks with a significant minority for wedding or party venues. The UK hotel market grew in 2008 to a value of  £11.5 billion, which is an increase of nearly 20% since 2002. This growth took place against the backdrop of a healthy worldwide economy with the global travel market recovering after the 2001 terrorist attacks (BMRC 2009, p.1). Factors influencing this growth were varied and included an increase in the number of tourists coming in to the UK in the years since 2002 and a diversification in the hotel market with increases in the budget sector as well as luxury brands. There was an increased call for upmarket brands as London in particular saw an increase in the ultra wealthy market sector for which money was no object (BMRC 2009, p.1). Other factors driving growth include the growth in internationalisation and global business, rises in disposable income, and the development of tourism from emerging economies such as former East Europe and India. The growth of the internet and online booking also paid a part as well as increased marketi ng by hoteliers (Key Note 2008 pp. 19-21). During 2008 this boom came to an end. The hotel industry was hit relatively late by the depression, and even during 2008 industry experts were proclaiming that the previous 12 months had been a time of overall growth (Cater Hotelkeeper 2009, p. 6). Occupancy rates were static in the first part of 2008, but then hotel transactions started to decline and during September 2008 occupancy fell steeply as did revenue per room (Cater Hotelkeeper 2009, p. 6). Further, developments for new hotels and improvements were cancelled and budgets reduced. 3.2 Strengths and Weaknesses of the UK Hotel Market A Key Note report identifies aspects of the UK hotel market influencing the vulnerablity or resilience to recession. On a positive note, the UK hotel market is a strong and sophisticated one with a wide range of different options to appeal to a range of different types of customer and including internationally recognised brands as well as smaller individual operators. Developments in technology and the increase of internet use over the last 10 years mean selecting and booking a trip is easier than ever before. The fact that most UK residents do not use hotels further offers an opportunity for growth, as does the potential for further increase in internet use. Restaurants attached to hotels and other such add on services provide further expansion potential. Finally, the UK is experiencing a growth in its older population, who have more time to travel. On the negative side, the hotel market is particularly vulnerable to an economic downturn as travel and trips are often seen as an area in which spending can be cut back. (Key Note 2008, pp. 48-50). Research also suggests that despite the apparently rosy outlook of the years immediately prior to 2008, the market had other issues to contend with even without recession. The long-stay leisure market (defined as those travellers staying away for five nights or more) has been in decline since 2004: the number of long-stay hotel rooms booked in 2008 was half that in 2006, at 11 million (BMRC 2009, p. 1). 4 The Impact of the Recession on the Hotel Industry in the UK: Specific Factors 4.1 Introduction This section looks at some of the factors which impact upon the Hotel industry, and why they are important. The messages are mixed. Some of the factors are detrimental to the industry while others have more positive impact. 4.1 Air Travel in Decline Although long-term growth in demand for air transport is projected, growth rates in the short to medium-term are likely to be affected by the general slowdown in the economy and by the rising cost of air travel. A market-wide study indicates that although long-term growth in demand for travel by air is expected, short to medium term projections are for negative growth in 2009 with the beginnings of recovery in 2010 (Key Note 2009, p. 10). This will have an impact upon the UK hotel market as there will be fewer travellers into the country. However, it should be bourne in mind that fewer UK holiday makers will want to holiday abroad due to financial considerations, thus boosting demand for hotels. 4.2 Collapse of the Property Market One of the hardest-hit sectors of the economy in the recession has been building as house prices have crashed and loans to finance building projects have dried up together with the market for the finished product. The UK enjoyed some of the highest periods of growth of house and other building prices, and the construction industry has been particularly badly hit by the latest recession. Developers are unable to access credit to fund large scale building schemes, so many hotel projects have been stalled (Blitz 2009 [online]). Aside from new developments, hotel owners who are unable to access further credit are also finding things more difficult. While larger operators and branded chains are able to look to the medium and long-term, over which a boom for hotel and travel are predicted due to emerging markets, smaller operators have less access to the resources which will see them through the next couple of years (Blitz 2009 [online]). The domestic travel area offers some possible positives for the industry as a whole. It is arguably the case that tourism and the hotel industry in the UK are better placed to withstand the results of a recession than either other industries or other holiday destinations. The reputation of the UK as a whole is very strong as a destination, as is that of England in particular.A 2008 survey by Visit Britain of 614 respondents based in the UK who regularly take short breaks reported that 9 out of 10 people consider England when choosing a short break. The branding of England has improved over the course of this tracker study, 58% of respondents say it is their favourite holiday destination considered. It is considered easy to get around and seen as having beautiful scenery (Visit Britain 2008, p.2). Short breaks account for almost 2/3 of breaks taken in the UK, so these findings are significant for the industry as a whole. (Bainbridge 2009, p. 1). Another consideration is the rising concern with being green and the impact of frequent air travel on the environment (Bainbridge 2009, p. 1). Consumers who want to reduce their carbon footprint and impact upon the environment are increasingly opting to stay within the UK (Bainbridge 2009, p. 1). What Bainbridge does not highlight, however, is that the new concern for green issues is not completely beneficial. Tourists from overseas will be equally concerned to cut their travel abroad, so this could also reduce inbound tourism into the UK. Research is conflicting with some showing that interest in saving the environment is fairly low priority for the majority of consumers and other studies confirming the idea that green issues will become increasingly important (Key Note 2009, p. 49). Hoseasons, the self-catering leader, also take this view, claiming that more people are choosing to holiday in the UK because of a demand for a green and alternative to flying abroad. Similarly, the fer ry lines entered 2008 assuming that demand would increase for their services as a greener alternative (Key Note 2009, p. 49). The UK has the most expensive rates for hotels in Europe, and average prices rose by 12% in 2007 to an average of just over  £100 per night. Londons exceptionally expensive rates influence this figure (Key Note 2009, p. 50). Against this background, and bearing in mind the recession, a move towards increasing the number of budget hotels seems inevitable. Previous expansion in the hotel industry has concentrated on the luxury end of the market with the growth of boutique hotels and the interest in catering to the super-rich. While this seems unfortunate given the recession, it is not obviously a bad strategy as historically the luxury market has been shown to reflect the economy more slowly than the rest of the market. (Key Note 2009, p. 92) In October 2007, Marriott estimated the growth in revenue per available room at between 5% and 7% in 2008; however, by May 2008, this had been revised to between 3% and 5%. As clients reduce their spending, it is likely that over-supply will be seen in the market and this will lead to some brand rationalisation (Key Note 2009, p. 92). One predicable result of the recession is to increase interest in budget holidays and cheaper hotels. The Visit Britain survey of UK residents who take short breaks reported in March 2008 that price had now overtaken other factors in choosing where to stay (Visit Britain 2008, p.2). This is likely to increase as the UK moves deeper into recession. The budget hotel market was under development even before the recession set in. Established brands such as Travelodge and Premier Inn expanded their operations, and they were joined by the Purple Hotels from the Real Hotel Group. Hilton also developed plans for a budget hotel chain, and CitizenM, a design-led brand, was developed. Other brands include Nitenite and Yotel, built at low cost using prefabrication techniques. The growth in the market has led to further segmentation in the sector with introduction of upmarket tiers to the budget range (for example Holiday Inns Express brand (Key Note 2008, p. 16) A Key Note report written at the beginning of the recession predicted that the mid-range hotels would be the main casualty of shrinking demand. The problems with the economy were exacerbated in the hotel industry by the recent increase in energy and food costs ( Key Note 2008, p. 11) 5.4.2 Business Budget Hotels As Bainbridge points out, budget hotels have benefited by both business and holiday customers downgrading in the recession. Some budget hotels have increased the range of facilities they offer to includes free wi-fi, breakfast and similar to accommodate a new business clientele. Whitbreads budget chain, Premier Inn, for example (the UKs biggest hotel brand) is upgrading its rooms with flat screen TV, air-conditioning and Freeview, and has seen sales for its business account scheme increase 36% over the previous year to February 2008. (Bainbridge, 2009, p. 1). This increase in the number of business travellers using budget hotels since the start of the recession in 2008 is corroborated by research by BDRC in 2009. They report that budget brands are consciously aiming to compete with mid-market brands by strategies such as the ones mentioned above. This drive has been rewarded by better standing in business advertising awareness for the budget hotel brands. (BDRC 2009 [online]) Key Note also report that mid-market business hotels are likely to suffer as they are positioned between the value and luxury hotel options, and what they call tiering, or introducing of levels in to the budget range, will also affect the mid-market brands (Key Note 2009, p. 92). 5.4.3 Consumer Budget Hotels For the non-business traveller, accommodation quality is very important in UK breaks. While travellers abroad endure less than perfect accommodation because costs are low and the weather good, within the UK they demand better quality. One issue is that bed-and-breakfasts and guest houses are notoriously prone to poorly-run individual establishments, leading to calls for the market to be tightened. However the budget hotel sector has grown and has mopped up some of the non-business market as well. The fact that there are many chains available in this sector means travellers can be reassured regarding expectations and quality as they are buying into a brand name. This is particularly true in London a popular choice for consumer short breaks where hotels are notoriously expensive (Key Note 2009, p. 50). 5.5 Staff and Recruitment Impact The recession has had a severe impact on the hotel recruitment market, and it is unlikely to recover before 2010. Job cuts look set to reach 600,000 as businesses and consumers cut spending. The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development warned of the toughest year in more than 2 decades, and their predictions were backed up by a survey of 150+ senior management in the hotel industry carried out by the recruitment specialists Admiral Group which revealed that over 2/3rds of those surveyed were going to delay recruitment decisions, and put fast-track graduate programmes had on hold (Sharkey 2009, p. 7). These findings are reiterated by the results of a study by Deloitte in 2008 which predicted that the downturn could cut new jobs in the sector by 100,000 with a corresponding dramatic shrink in the UK tourism industry. A recession could see a  £11b reduction in the economic input by visitors to the UK, currently worth  £114b or 8.2% of the UKs GDP. The British Hospitality Ass ociation also criticised the lack of help from the Government (Thomas 2008, p. 9) One less gloomy prediction is that the recession will have less impact as the hospitality market in general and the hotel market in particular is more diverse than in the past, with some opportunities actually being created particularly in the casual and budget dining and contract catering sectors. This is reinforced by a survey carried out by the British Hospitality Association which shows that the contract catering sector has grown and will continue to do so in the recession (Druce 2009, p. 7) 5.6 Room Occupancy and Prices Room occupancy rates the percentage of nights that hotel rooms are in active use have been increasing since 2005. This is good for hotel operators as it allows them to repay investments and reap more return for their money. In 2007 there was a 1% point rise in domestic occupancy (61% in 2006, with the 2003 rate being 59%). This pre-dated the recession and was a result of the strength of sterling at this time (Key Note 2008, p. 14) Returns in terms of paid accommodation in the UK show a surprising result. Gains were still made in 2008, and a report by Deloitte showed that in the early part of the year revenue per room grew strongly (Caterer Hotelkeeper 2009, p. 6), which is unusual as the recession started to set in during this year for most parts of the UK economy. However, this seems to be a function of gains made at either end of the booking season. Early bookings would have been made before worries about the economy set in, and late bookings made might have been as a result of last-minute demand and hence prices paid were higher (Key Note 2008, p. 15) 5.7. Smaller and Specialist Sectors The result of the recession can also be traced in the smaller and specialist areas of the UK hotel market. For hotel operators, boom areas in these sectors are not necessarily a good thing, as will be shown. 5.7.1 Activity Holidays Activity holidays overseas were enjoying a boom in recent years, however for the next few years the market is predicted to grow less rapidly, whereas activity holidays in the UK are predicted to rise. In 2010 for example the total no of activity holidays in Millions taken by UK residents was predicted before the recession at 11.5; this was revised to 10.8, with 2011, originally predicted to total 12 million was revised to 11.4. By contrast, predictions about UK activity holidays have been revised upwards: the 2011 level was predicted at 5.0 million, and this was revised to 5.3 million. (Mintel Market Reforecasts 2009 [online]). The impact for hoteliers is mixed. If the holiday involves hotel stay, then the news is good; however if the accommodation is self-catering the hotel operator will lose out. 5.7.2 All-Inclusive Holidays All inclusive holidays, a sector which has been in decline in recent years due apparently to the increasing ease of online booking and ease of finding information, are now predicted to rise over the short-term as they allow all holiday costs to be known in advance and paid for up front. Both Thomas Cook and TUI are aiming to increase their all-inclusive capacity (Mintel Market Reforecasts 2009 [online]) 5.7.3 Camping and Caravaning Holidays This sector enjoyed a boom in the 1960s and early 1970s but with the advent of cheap overseas package holidays has been in decline. However, Mintel predict that these holidays are an attractive option for the budget conscious consumer, and will benefit from the increase of families who elect to stay in the UK in 2009 and 2010 for financial reasons. They point out that the Camping and Caravanning club had their best ever year for recruitment of new members in 2008 (Mintel Market Reforecast, 2009 [online]). Domestic camping holidays are predicted to do rather better over the next couple of years before the long-term trend towards decline reinstates itself. The growth in this area is not good news for the hotelier, as by definition a stay in a hotel is ruled out for this holiday type. 5.7.4 Others Other sectors, for example boating holidays, have also been affected. Even where the market remains buoyant boating and luxury holidays growth prediction has been downgraded and is expected to occur at a slower rate than predicted (Mintel Market Reforecasts 2009 [online]). Sectors of the UK market which are predicted to do well include coach holidays within the UK which are seen as a budget option and so are fairly resilient to an economic downturn, and heritage tourism as well as holiday centres like Centre Parcs. Mintel see the latter as particularly resilient as they are both percieved as a budget option and are attractive to the UK consumer as they offer pay in advance all-in-one packages. An increase in coach holidays is also good to some extent for the hotelier, although the bulk of coach holiday operators chose low-cost hotels where price margins are cut very low, as the coach holiday is seen as a price-conscious alternative to the consumer. 6. Lessons Learned from Previous Economic Downturns The last time a recession occurred in the hotel industry was in the wake of the 2001 September 11th terrorist attacks on the Twin Towers in New York. The Sept 11th attacks and anthrax scare which followed caused uncertainty about the short and medium-term economic futures and had an impact upon travel and tourism plans leading to a reduction in hotel use and travel. In the US these areas, along with airlines were significantly affected in the aftermath of the terrorist attack. (Mintel Market Reforecasts, 2009 [online]). In the recession of the early years of the 21st century, the response to the challenge was to discount room rates heavily, however this strategy was of questionable use. The heavy discounting was intended to boost occupancy level, however this necessarily led to less profitability and income; it took years to recover from this as consumers became used to the lower prices. As Bloss (2009) points out, the tactic is also very easy to copy by competitors and hence a risky one. 7. Conclusion. The UK hotel market has certainly been affected by the economic downturn. The above looked at the background to the recession and how it has affected the corporate and consumer sector. While the sector has certainly been impacted with job cuts, slower, stagnating or declining predictions and less building projects, there are some positives for the UK market as holiday makers elect to stay at home rather than travel abroad.

Introducing the National Multiple Sclerosis Society into Singapore Essa

Introducing the National Multiple Sclerosis Society into Singapore The National Multiple Sclerosis Society is a non- profit organization that supports MS related research and provides programs for people with MS and their families. Multiple Sclerosis is an auto- immune disease. It is a chronic and often disabling disease that attacks the central nervous system. The mission statement of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society is to end the devastating effects of multiple sclerosis. The funds that are provided by the society are used in research, programs, and education. The Society helps to raise the awareness of Multiple Sclerosis around the world. (Reference 6) The Multiple Sclerosis Society is a worldwide organization that provides service to many different countries. One area of the world that the MS Society lacks in involvement is Southeastern Asia. MS does not appear in Asia nearly as much as in North America and Europe, but there are relevant cases. There are other parts of Asia such as Japan and India that have MS Societies. MS is also scarce in those areas and their societies are not as large as other chapters of NMSS, but it has been found that they are necessary. The Japanese society has 31 members and about 5000 people who have MS but are not involved in the society. In India the society has approximately 1005 members and 1000 people on record that have MS. (Reference 7) Putting a MS society in Southeastern Asia would be best suited in the country of Singapore. Singapore is a very prosperous country and has many international links. According to one source Chan Tse Chueen funding for non-profit organizations is very prevalent in Singapore. In Singapore there are three sources of funding. The first being the State that gives funds to social welfare organizations and research institutes. The government tries to encourage donations by pledging to match dollar – for- dollar that is raised. The second source is the corporate sector. Many corporations set up foundations and trust funds and also have donations as contribution in kinds. Companies in Singapore such as IBM Singapore and Hewlett Packard Company are dedicated to providing philanthropy to local organizations. The last source of funding is the civic sector. As the people of Singapore become more affluent more funds become available.(Reference 2) The marketing plan for NMSS in Singapore... ...n and benefit in that country. Conclusion Introducing the National Multiple Sclerosis Society into Singapore has its good sides and bad. The MS Society could benefit from the prosperous economy of Singapore and government and corporate support, but the factors that may not work are there may not be enough people in Singapore to benefit (not many with MS), also if societies are not exempt from taxes that may lead to financial problems for the society. Charities must incorporate the poor and societies are people who have common ends in this case Multiple Sclerosis. It would be difficult to change the MS society to a charity. It is certainly possible to introduce NMSS to other countries and many already have them. Even though NMSS in Singapore has its down side it might be able to work with some adaptation. References CIA World Fact Book 2000. http://www.odci.gov/cia/publications/factbook/ Civicus. http://www.civicus.org/pages/singapihtml About HR. http://www.abouthr.com ChangeX: Currency Calculator. http://www.numa.com ExpatSingapore. http://www.expatsingapore.com National Multiple Sclerosis Society Fact Sheet World of Multiple Sclerosis. http://www.ifmss.org.uk/

Array

C++ provides a data structure, the array, which stores a fixed-size sequential collection of elements of the same type. An array is used to store a collection of data, but it is often more useful to think of an array as a collection of variables of the same type. Instead of declaring individual variables, such as number0, number1, †¦ , and number99, you declare one array variable such as numbers and use numbers[0], numbers[1], and †¦ , numbers[99] to represent individual variables.A specific element in an array is accessed by an index. All arrays consist of contiguous memory locations. The lowest address corresponds to the first element and the highest address to the last element. Declaring Arrays: To declare an array in C++, the programmer specifies the type of the elements and the number of elements required by an array as follows: type arrayName [ arraySize ];| This is called a single-dimension array. The arraySize must be an integer constant greater than zero and type c an be any valid C++ data type.For example, to declare a 10-element array called balance of type double, use this statement: double balance[10];| Initializing Arrays: You can initialize C++ array elements either one by one or using a single statement as follows: double balance[5] = {1000. 0, 2. 0, 3. 4, 17. 0, 50. 0};| The number of values between braces { } can not be larger than the number of elements that we declare for the array between square brackets [ ].Following is an example to assign a single element of the array: If you omit the size of the array, an array just big enough to hold the initialization is created. Therefore, if you write: double balance[] = {1000. 0, 2. 0, 3. 4, 17. 0, 50. 0};| You will create exactly the same array as you did in the previous example. balance[4] = 50. 0;| The above statement assigns element number 5th in the array a value of 50. 0. Array with 4th index will be 5th ie. last element because all arrays have 0 as the index of their first element w hich is also called base index.Following is the pictorial representaion of the same array we discussed above: Accessing Array Elements: An element is accessed by indexing the array name. This is done by placing the index of the element within square brackets after the name of the array. For example: double salary = balance[9];| The above statement will take 10th element from the array and assign the value to salary variable. Following is an example which will use all the above mentioned three concepts viz. eclaration, assignment and accessing arrays: #include using namespace std; #include using std::setw; int main (){ int n[ 10 ]; // n is an array of 10 integers // initialize elements of array n to 0 for ( int i = 0; i < 10; i++ ) { n[ i ] = i + 100; // set element at location i to i + 100 } cout

American Dream Lost essays

American Dream Lost essays Gatsby as a Social Commentary on American Life The Great Gatsby, by F. Scott Fitzgerald, has been celebrated as one of the greatest, if not the greatest American novel. Yet this is ironic for the society which has so hailed the book is precisely that which is criticized throughout it. Politically, the American dream was a foundation of ideals and hopes for any and every American individual. Specifically, one of the ideals was an American dream free of class distinction; that every person has the opportunity to be whomever they hope to be. In a sort of Cinderella-like fashion, it is in essence an ideal of social mobility and freedom. The social reality, however, is far more cruel. Because of the harsh truth of social America, by way of its pretentiousness and decadence, the American dream is lost. Through Nicks honest and poignant observation, the parallel lives of Myrtle Wilson and Jay Gatsby reflect The Great Gatsby as a social commentary about the polluted American Dream. Myrtle is that infamous model of how the political and social ideals of America conflict so that the American dream becomes a nightmare. Contrary to the naivete the American dream, there are indeed fine class distinctions. With them comes certain social boundaries. In a sense, it is almost as if there are unspoken sumptuary laws understood by low and high classed individuals alike. Myrtle Wilson is no exception. Instead of abiding by them, Myrtle, who represents the low and ignorant class of America, tried to break the social barriers and thus pursues wealth by any means necessary. Using her sexuality and vulgar mien, she becomes false for abandoning and dismissing her own social foundation, and like Nick, we as readers are repulsed by her grotesque approach to entering the rich class. At one point, and quite humorously to the knowing onlooker, Myrtle complains about a service done for her that was so expensive that "w ...

The World is So Big, Yet So Small

The World is So Big, Yet So Small We sit in our chairs behind desks or at the kitchen counter on our laptops, and feel protected from the world yet a part of it. The shy parts of us try to convince us that we are just as connected as if we were on tour. The web has joined us all together. Then we wonder why we dont have followers, or why we arent selling books. Anyone can throw up a blog. Anyone can buy an ad, and goodness knows anyone can toss a book on Amazon. All of that does little for your platform. That is . . . unless you have a blog that knocks the socks off people thanks to your controversial way of presenting things, or your works wax ridiculously lyrical. Blogging about your life, your day, your thoughts on writing . . . how is that different from the next one hundred blogs What Im trying to say is there is nothing magical about putting yourself out on the web. Followers dont suddenly find you because you purchased a domain name and hired someone to build you a WordPress site. You arent Kevin Costner, and people dont come to your blog because you built it. If Ive learned anything in the book side of my profession, its that people want to see you. Ive spoken to a room of three hundred or as few as two. Some appearances are more predictable than others, but the truth is you present with the same quality and passion. These folks are there to see you, experience you, learn from you. You might be amazed at how much they appreciate you putting yourself out there, with some of the most loyal fans coming from small events. Most of my strongest supporters have met me. From a library in Bettendorf, Iowa to a writers conference in a rec center cafeteria in Wadesboro, North Carolina. From the basement of a bank in Black Earth, Wisconsin to the sun porch of a home in Newberry, South Carolina. When you meet people, make eye contact, and read their body language, you form a more memorable bond. The writer becomes real, more worthy of endorsement because they took the effort to be there in the flesh. That took planning, driving, the cost of travel. Be willing to genuinely meet people. Dont hide in a string of twenty authors. Be willing to smile and share a minute with a stranger. Dont forever hide behind your screen. Yes, the world is huge, but making the effort to shrink it and stretch your social skills with a handshake and real conversation forges long-time fellowship. Thats the strongest platform you can create. And you dont have to travel the globe to find it. Your hometown venues work just fine.

Motorcycle Club Activities And The Response By Law Enforcement Research Paper

Motorcycle Club Activities And The Response By Law Enforcement - Research Paper Example Although RICO has been one method of dealing with the organized nature of the clubs, the effectiveness to date has not been encouraging. The American myth of the outlaw motorcycle gang is still a living and thriving entity that had yet to be controlled by law or authority. Motorcycle club activities and the response by law enforcement One of the iconic images of the 1960s was the idea of the motorcycle club, glamourized by films and supported by the almost mythical existence of the Hell’s Angels which was commonly known across the United States. While the emergence of street gangs has overwhelmed the urban legends of the motorcycle gang activities, eclipsing the romance of the open road with the romance of the gritty streets of the city, motorcycle gangs are still in existence and are tied both to street activities and prison gang activities. The primary business of MCs or motorcycle clubs is that of the drug trade, although with their ties to organized crime they have their h ands in quite a bit of illegal activity. The flesh trade is another popular form of enterprise for the MCs as it became a natural extension of the hedonistic lifestyle embraced. Illegal activities occur through complex and extensive relationships with other forms of organized crime and with networks of chapters and clubs that support the criminal businesses that they run. The MCs are powerful with a strong organized culture in which the hierarchy and the military style authority with which they operate provides both security for the members and a strict code of behaviors with violent consequences when violated. Law enforcement on the local level has the problem of handling the club while federal authorities are freer to act more aggressively towards taking apart the organizations, but to date other than disassembling portions of the club, a bit at a time; they have not been able to take down the system. Biker Culture According to Nichols (2010) â€Å"Any time society breeds a natio n of sheep – when people grow to lazy or meek or subservient to power – a few wolves emerge to attack these weaknesses and keep the human herd strong† (p. 62). The biker culture emerged, primarily in the aftermath of World War II, although the official beginning was in 1935 (Birzer, 2011). Men who had been in the war came home to a world in which they were now disenfranchised. Although the economy was booming, the soldiers were suffering from the same feelings of displacement that most veterans of war experience. In reaction to both the economy that was emerging in a new society that had no place to them and the need for the return to the social structure and brotherhood of the armed forces, the creation of ‘clubs’ to provide for these men became the result. If one looks at the nature of the membership, they have a uniform, earn patches for performance which gives them honor, and have a structured hierarchy (Nichols, 2010). Another important element to membership is that the bike that is owned must be of American manufacture, thus the clubs, although outlaw show a sense of pride for their nation (Birzer, 2011). While the origins of the original comment that began the idea of the ‘one percenter’ is lost to history, the comment that created this outlaw ideal was based upon a quote that stated that 99% of all bikers were law abiding citizens (Joans, 2001). From this comment was born the elite, those bikers who lived the myth of the outlaw biker, wreaking havoc on the world and living a life of relentless hedonism. Sonny Barger of the Hell’s Angels began the tradition in the 1960s of adding the ‘

The Kidnapping of the Lindbergh Baby Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

The Kidnapping of the Lindbergh Baby - Essay Example It led to the arrest of Bruno Richard Hauptmann who was charged and convicted of murder in the famous case. He was sentenced to death and was executed at 8:44 p.m. on April 3, 1936 ("The Kidnappimg"). The trial had ended, but the controversy continues today. While some critics claim that Hauptmann was framed to save face for the government, others are convinced that Hauptmann was the perpetrator. A close look at the methods of the time, the exhaustive investigation, and the evidence surrounding the case leaves little doubt that 'Bruno' Hauptmann was instrumental in the crime. The case was controversial from the very first moments after the disappearance was discovered. It involved the son of the famous aviator, a beloved national hero. Immediately after the nurse, Betty Gow, discovered the open window and missing child, Lindbergh got a gun and went outside the house. He discovered a ladder near the open window and went to investigate. He trampled the footprints that remained and destroyed crucial evidence. In the flurry of confusion, the crime scene was contaminated. Local, state, and national law enforcement agencies all vowed to commit whatever resources were necessary to the investigation. However, the first errors in the case came when Charles Lindbergh insisted on being placed in charge of the investigation. Though the best professionals available had been assigned to the case, Lindbergh "[...] personally took charge, often ignoring the advice and overriding the decisions of the professionals" (Levy 34). These initial mistakes by Lindbergh would lea ve the case open to future criticism. A poorly written ransom note was found at the scene, though authorities were unable to find any fingerprints on it. The remains of the ladder, broken during use, were the only physical evidence. Lindbergh approved a plan to attempt to contact the kidnappers and arrange for the ransom to be paid after a second note was received on March 6, 1932 demanding $70,000. ("Famous Cases"). Within 10 days, a man named Dr. John F. Condon, Bronx, New York City, a retired school principal, contacted the Lindbergh's attorney and said he could mediate the safe return of the child. A series of meetings took place in a graveyard where Condon, code named 'Jasfie', and an elusive figure known as 'Graveyard John' discussed ransom and the child's safety. During one of these meetings, 'Graveyard John' offered proof of the child. According to the FBI, "A baby's sleeping suit, as a token of identity, and a seventh ransom note were received by Dr. Condon on March 16. The suit was delivered to Colonel Lindbergh and later identified" ("Famous Cases"). Arrangements were made to pay the ransom and secure the release of young Charlie. On April 2, ransom money was delivered to Graveyard John while Charles Lindbergh waited close by in an automobile. Graveyard John gave Condon a note which had instructions on the location of the child. The note said that the child could be found in Martha's Vineyard in a boat named Nellie, "between Horseneck beach and Gay Head near Elizabeth Island" ("The Kidnapping"). However, Lindbergh had been double-crossed as no boat could be located with that name and no baby was found ("The Kidnapping"