Free Press and Democracy Essay

Democracy is a form of government in which all eligible citizens have an equal say in the decisions that affect their lives. Democracy allows eligible citizens to participate equally and to have free access to information ideas and opinions, with this reasoning is inferred that de democracy needs free press in order to be function properly. The power of the press is associated to the fundamental principles of democracy that’s to say the freedom of expression and freedom of opinion. The desire of people to express themselves freely wouldn’t have been possible without a fully free press. The power of the press has managed to reach such importance as freedom of expression. Free press has the capacity to arms citizens with essential information-the truth, that gives people the opportunity to choose the path to follow and to have their own opinion when it comes to solve problems or take a side in the issues that will always take place in a society. An intimidated, uninformed and disinterested public would be the predictable result of the loss of freedom of the press. It is basic statement that to maintain a healthy democracy no government activity should escape the scrutiny of the press. According to one story, one of Napoleon’s contemporaries visited the United States as a guest of President Thomas Jefferson. Upon seeing a Federalist newspaper article lying on a table that heavily criticized Jefferson’s policies, the visiting Frenchman remarked that the writer of the article should be punished. Jefferson responded calmly, â€Å" Sir, you may take the newspaper back with you to France, because that is the difference between my country and yours.† The president, a great believer in freedom of the press, was telling his visitor that without this right, American would not be the country that it is. This was true in 1800, and is equally true today. The freedom to publish facts, even opposing opinions about those facts, is essential for informed voters to participate in a democracy. In a nutshell, it can be inferred with all this information that democracy and free press needs to come handy, together in order to give people the freedom that they deserve to take their own opinion in a determinate matter. In my opinion everybody have the right to take their own decisions and to have their own opinion in all aspects of live. Without free press there is no democracy, no freedom of choice.

Globalization Myth Essay

Globalization is an economic activity in which social change is a continuous process. Globalization happens through the increasing level of interdependence among nations to integrate their economic, political and social spheres. It is a force that has sped up the rate of communication, the increased the intensity of market competition, flared the rate of trades and strengthened interaction amongst states. The development of this concept is towards within the world political economy. As Douglas recounted, the concepts that signaled the rise of globalization are: â€Å"the rise of neoliberal transnational technocracy, the transfiguration of the military-industrial complex into the military-communications complex; the rationalization of the postwar ‘global governance institutions (IMF, IBRD, GATT, NATO, UN, EC/U), and the rise of others (NAFTA, WTO, APEC, ASEAN, PECC); transition within the ‘multi-core complex’ (in particular the incorporation of the developmental states of East Asia); decolonization, dependent development and the reconstruction of hierarchical commodity chains against calls for a ‘New International Economic Order’; the disintegration of the corporate-liberal synthesis followed by the deeper embeddedness of state-capital relations; a broad transition of command between the manufacturing and service spheres of Western economies; and the demobilization of labor unions† (1997) In general, there are two views on globalization. First, is that globalization is an offspring brought by the development of new communication technology. And second, its significance and purpose lies in the linkages that it forms within states, societies and individuals (McGrew 992). The concept was hastened primarily because of the growing capability of humans to innovate technology. Communication technology played a crucial part in the globalization boom. Information technology is an extension and a means towards pushing a long term development in the technology that will aide further penetrations in the state system (Chase 1994). This has brought closer states, it made exchange of information faster and more efficient. Nonetheless, creating allies was easier. And these allies were used for trades, for economic perpetuation, for defense strengthening, and for other purpose that interdependence may serve to strong nations. While others view globalization as merely an integration among nations in such a way that it shall enable individual or entrepreneurs around the world to trade faster and cheaper, there are still scholars and activists who view otherwise. Hirst and Thomson, in their book Globalization in Question suggested that globalization is a â€Å"deliberate process of economic liberalization† that forces individuals and states to participate in a more intense market forces (2000). It is a force that pushes states to participate in order to survive. Rights and equality are merely an issue. It is a question of a state’s capability to resist the calls of globalization and afterwards suffer the consequences that may be imposed on their markets, shall they try to counter the demands of the globalizing countries. It is an issue of control over the process, and who controls the market. Globalization has reached towards the depths of a nation’s character. Ecology, culture, communication, economic and political areas were the ones that were strategically affected by globalization. This in a way, can its ideologies be pushed within a state territory. Cultural components of the human evolution has been a central target for the start of the modern world-system (Meyer 1989). The thrust in the cultural sphere has been a great start to penetrate the state system. This marked a good start into luring the economic and political aspects of a country. As culture is the heart and soul of a country, it is the first door that must be opened in order to manipulate the thinking and mindset of the target population. No wonder that the process of globalization has started within the realms of media, towards the commercial products and creating a wide array of popular culture that will penetrate the population. On the other hand, communication as mentioned above has been, and will always be an integral part in the current world system. The rapid advancement in technology has decreased the cost of communication, and this has greatly affected the communication capability. State consciousness, as a delicate factor for the formation of â€Å"global civil society† has qualitatively changed by far. Globalization of communication has altered values, culture and consciousness by means of creating or destroying something whether the state calls for it or not (Giddens 1996) The trends revealed continuities and struggles for economy and democracy based on their own reflective judgments about the emerging ideology. As Moore suggested, progressive movements must make use of the ideas emerging from economic nationalism to retract the world market forces (1995). But nowadays, the public has accepted the mainstream social, political and cultural trends that developed within and among nations as an end-result in the interactions in the expanding world system (Chase 1999). This phenomenon has yielded different opinions on the basis of its feasibility and its significance among states. When they say â€Å"economic and social progress escaping from territorial limitations and become global† – it means that society and politics has escaped the state. Everything has become global in the sense that everything has gone into the cyberspace, without borders (Hirst 2001). The effects in politics are more pronounced in such a way that state functions are no longer within borders; as such the market and internet have absorbed its functions. Another effect of globalization on politics is that, its processes have become a mere satellite heavily relying by international entities such as UN. It has become dependent with the global political forces rather than the usual local regulation (Hirst 2001). Indeed, politics have also become market-driven. The economic regulation was attributed to government and agencies that can respond more flexibly in the ever changing economic system. Murphy’s â€Å"global governance† explains the growth of international organizations. This trend of political globalization concentrated on grasping international sovereignty (1994). Alongside, this ideology has tried to undercut and argued for elimination of Second Wave institutions such as unions, socialist parties and welfare programs (Dunn 1999). Economically, globalization delocalized activities, the way it had driven away the functions of politics away from the state. These activities have been ripped from its origins and its own unique culture (Gray 1999). Globalization meant the â€Å"global-spanning economic relationships† (Chase 199). This were manifested in the growing interrelationships of markets, networks of goods and services that were institutionalized by transnational corporations. During these era, the rate of trade and investment has dramatically increased. Globalization has brought states closer by means of using higher organizations to control the wave spectrum. States look upon those entities to enforce legislations that will cover a larger market. Division of labor emerged and under this globalization picture, this shall bring order to the international community. This international order serves as ties to connect these states towards one another. Thinkers of globalization would suggest that failure to participate in this order would render them weak, for their attempt to preserve local political control will result to the demise of governance (Hirst 2001). This world system created from political globalization has lead to the emergence of hegemons, those which were in control of the trade and had the richest access to the wealthiest nations that have thick resources of raw materials that are essential to the growth of the economies of these hegemons. Gaining control of these resources, coupled with their political supremacy over the others, prompted a heavy disparity over the rights of those who are inclined to follow the ascendancy of global leaders. This is the process in which globalization has indeed grown big but left numerous states at demise. These are peripheral states that are under the rule of their core countries. And although as much as globalization had promised to provide an equal playing field for market trades, it is impossible to attain such, given that political control is always concentrated on the side of a few. This is also a reason wherein globalization hasn’t reached its outmost capability to boom. There are states that resisted this call and decided to stand outside the field of hegemonic rulers. The question on globalization’s â€Å"global† character was raised based on its function. As Hirst and Thompson argued, the system is indeed international but it is not operating truly global. It is not global because it only operates amongst national economies centered only on major states. And even as large economies participate in the global trade, most of them still keep the majority of their products towards their national economies. Migrations have also been watched after to secure the growth of their economies (Hirst 2000). Though there exists a strong connection and interdependence among countries, not the entirety of the system is globalized but fitted in an order that will allow it to compete internationally. As Castell gave employment as an example; employment has never escaped its local origin, but it has rather been a â€Å"strategically crucial economic factor that was networked for exchange of the inputs and outputs† (2001). Here, globalization has been used as a guise to import labor, for an excessive output. This is in a way increased the significance of interdependence among nations. The international division of labor has been manipulated to favor stronger nations and extract the weaker nations of its resources and capacity. Academic contention on globalization as merely a myth has risen from its characteristics that its processes have made. Globalization is challenged as just a form of â€Å"internationalization†. There are academic scholars to argue that internationalization has never progressed to globalization. Because, internalization entailed the significance of nations and role of state, while on the other hand, globalization in its full bloom state must eliminate the existence of nation states (Hirst 2000). And for one thing, the countries that have succumbed to the calls of globalization in the guise of international relations are those who were previous colonies of the fallen empires, the post-war victims, and the weak nations who had no other choice but to follow the dictates of the then superpower of America. There wasn’t a choice left but to participate in that international trade rather than being apprehended by international authorities, or be sanctioned.

Ethical language is meaningless Essay

Ethics is concerned with what is right and what is wrong. Meta-ethics however looks at the language, it asks â€Å"What does it mean to say that something is right or wrong†. In the words of Pojman, â€Å"normative ethics is a philosophical examination of morality, meta-ethics is philosophising about ethics -that is, about the very terms and structure of ethical theories.† I aim to explore the claim that all ethical language is meaningless by looking at some of the common statements used in the ethical language and what they actually mean. Firstly let me take the question itself- what exactly is ethical language? Dr Richard Paul defines ethics as â€Å"a set of concepts and principles that guide us in determining what behaviour helps or harms sentient creatures†. Paul also states that most people confuse ethics with behaving in accordance with people’s religious beliefs and the law, and don’t treat ethics as a stand-alone concept. However, according to the dictionary ethics is defined as the â€Å"study of morality’s effect on conduct: the study of moral standards and how they affect conduct†. With people defining ‘ethics’ in different ways, ethical statements would have contrasting meanings depending on how you viewed the actual term ‘ethical’. This idea of looking into the language of a statement before determining whether the outcome/notion would be right or wrong is called meta-ethics. This view of language limits its meaning to something that can be verified by sense experience (i.e. proven true or false). This view can be found in the works of Wittgenstein in ‘Tractatus’ (1921). This initial view went on to influence a group of philosophers known as the ‘Vienna Circle’ who developed the idea of ‘positivism’. This then influenced A J Ayer who claimed in his publication of ‘Language, Truth and Logic’ that there are only two kinds of proposition being the truths known by definition, and the truths known by reference to sense experience. For example, to Ayer ‘all bachelors are unmarried’ would be known as a tautology because this is correct by definition and thus claims nothing. However, ‘That man is a bachelor’ can be either proven false or true by using external facts (i.e. does he wear a wedding ring etc.). To  Ayer both these statements would be meaningful as they can be proven true. However, an ethical statement such as ‘abortion is wrong’ cannot be verified analytically or synthetically (like the examples before could be) and so aren’t meaningful. On the other hand, F H Bradley argued that the supreme good for mankind was self-realisation, meaning that we choose to go one way or another in life, so that we can join the wider community. Morality to Bradley is about the actions you take which express the character that you are. This is known as metaphysical ethics and is often referred to as depending on two abstract ideas. The first being the world as a whole and the second being self-realisation. Neither of these ideas can be reduced to the sort of empirical evidence that the logical positivists such as Ayer would say, can determine whether it has meaning. Therefore Bradley would say that ethical statements are meaningful. I agree with Bradley in that I can see how you can investigate the world as a whole and individual people’s inner characters I have to disagree with the overall opinion that for a statement to have meaning it must fit into one of two categories. Not everything can be proven through science or experien ce, but that is not to say it does not have meaning to some people. R M Hare agreed with my thoughts as he put forward his approach of ‘Prescriptivism’. He argued that an ethical statement ‘prescribes’ a course of action and tells you what one ought to do. It is stronger than just a suggestion of how to behave, but at the same time is more than a command because commands are related to specific things at specific times, i.e. ‘you should tidy your room’ would have meaning. An ethical statement is a general command of how to behave, making it both prescriptive and universalisable. Therefore one can apply logic to the statement and can deduce whether they should follow the statement or not. Hare would not make the decision so black and white that the statement is either ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ but would instead say ‘yes I think I agree with the statement and I intend to follow what it says’. Therefore these statements are full of meaning as they prescribe how one should act. Having said that, many people would not be happy with the above outcome as it is down to the individual and could arguably make excuses for actions that people may do. By following Ayer’s argument it is much simpler and universal as it is not down to the individual, it is either right or wrong through science and facts. Ayer, an emotivist, also felt that ethical statements are not just expressions of the individual person’s emotion but also of their attitude towards the situation. A good example to use- if I say capital punishment is wrong, it’s because I have an attitude opposed to capital punishment which is formed due to my beliefs. Therefore Ayer compared these ethical statements to the ‘laughs’ and ‘boos and hisses’ the ‘cheers’ and the ‘screams’ that people may voice in the audience of a debate. The statements are meaningless and add no weight to the situation. For example, saying that charity is good you are saying â€Å"hoorah for charity work† and nothing more. We would simply be expressing our attitude towards that topic or situation, and in the words of Ayer â€Å"I am not making any factual statement†¦ I am merely expressing certain moral sentiments.† Moral and ethical arguments serve no real purpose as everyone has their own opinion but who are we to say which opinion is right? We cannot know from people’s own expressions whether a moral statement is right or wrong, and therefore will come to no outcome so all ethical statements are meaningless. C.L Stevenson took this further and developed Ayer’s emotivism. Stevenson felt that whilst People’s subjective opinions are often based on objective facts so meaningful ethical discourse could take place. For example; if I say war is wrong it is my opinion and purely subjective. However if we say that war is wrong because 10000 people were killed innocently that is objective and factual evidence as to why so many people believe war is wrong. Therefore ethical statements can be meaningful. Ethical statements also include a persuasive element, which encourages other people to adopt the same attitudes/beliefs as us. Here Stevenson bridges both prescriptivism and emotivism together, and believes that ethical statements are meaningful. My opinion, however, would be that most people in society would be able to recognise that an ethical statement such as â€Å"It is wrong to murder† is prescribing a course of action that will benefit the rest of society. I  agree with R M Hare that an ethical statement is meaningful as it provides a guide as to how you should go about your daily lives. Language in general can have several meanings, but this still means each has a meaning. Ethical statements are made up of language, therefore each statement in my opinion is meaningful. You cannot make the decision of whether ethical language has meaning purely based on logic and evidence through experience- some things cannot be reduced to these categories, but that does not mean some people don’t consider this language as meaningless.

REFLECTIVE COMMENTRY- Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 1

REFLECTIVE COMMENTRY- - Essay Example Anti-social Behaviour act 2003 was enacted in order to provide enforcement for the Antisocial behaviour order and the Fixed Penalty Notice, the ban of sale of spray pain to under 16s and empower the local councils in removal of graffiti from the private property. It also has provisions to deal the truancy, false report for emergency, fireworks, drunkenness and disorder, and related gang activities. Working with other agencies in the society like communal and neighbourhood groups to tackle ASBO issues and work also with the extended policy family to have visible presence in the community to deter and divert crimes. Have opening schedule of licensed premises to ensure crime prevent ant-social behaviour to have proactive visits to the licensed premises in partnership with local police force to provide public reassurances The new policy should also ensure that it uses all the available means to reach to the public to ensure that the problem of antisocial behaviour is address. All the available options including the media and other avenues should be used to reach the public and create awareness on the antisocial behaviour sand how they are to be avoided. In this incidence, the young man who is involved in the antisocial behaviour exhibit problems of social exclusion and other problems. Although he has social problems he is in a bad company which may be influencing him to engage in crimes. Social exclusion can make individual to start engaging in crimes. According to social labelling theory self-identity and behaviour of an individual is influenced by the way that person is labelled by the society and the way that individual is described by the member of the society. Although sub-cultural theory assumer that there are groups or individual in the society that have characters that make them prone to criminal activities, the society also plays big role in constructing the criminal. (Marek 2004, p. 32) Labelling theory

Wellness Promotion Project. Assessment of the Utica-Rome, NY community Essay

Wellness Promotion Project. Assessment of the Utica-Rome, NY community - Essay Example Assessment of the Utica-Rome, NY community A later Gallup poll in USA Today puts the Utica-Rome region fourth in a standing of urban communities where individuals have the most heart strike. The main poll puts that stacked up progressively at danger were the Huntington-Ashland region in West Virginia; the Davenport-Moline Rock Island in Iowa and Fort Smith in Arkansas. The study discovered that expansive amounts of individuals here are corpulent, and smoke, however that yet little numbers practice customarily. A nearby interventional cardiologist says that patients he sees in his office don't repudiate those discoveries, however he additionally sees numerous sound patients in their 90s since they settle on solid life decisions. That's the focus needed to drive home, that you have a say in which sort of fact you come to be. Coronary illness is a preventable infection and you can change your result. You can change the detail. It's not a miserable try. Individuals can have an enormous e ffect and we need to truly change. Practice is vital, however how we consume, what we consume is as well. Literature Review The Gallup Study First of all, what is the Gallup poll? For more than 70 years, Gallup has built its reputation on delivering relevant, timely, and visionary research on what humans around the world think and feel. Using impeccable data, our advisers assist leaders  in  identifying and monitoring critical economic and behavioral indicators that are vital to their strategic plans. The study discovered that the occurrence of high circulatory strain in the Utica-Rome range was higher than the national normal. The study additionally said that about a full third of individuals in the region are corpulent, and more than a quarter, smoke (Ships, 2013). Heart illness, which causes heart strike, is the heading explanation for expiration in the United States. More than 700,000 Americans show some kindness assault every year. As per the Gallup-Healthways twelve-month well-being study, a few US metropolitan locales have much higher rates of heart strike than whatever is left of the nation. Broadly, an expected 4% of American mature people reported surviving a heart assault. Occupants of Utica-Rome, NY metropolitan locale were more than twice as liable to endure the same destiny (Mendez, 2013). In view of Gallup and Healthways information for US metropolitan factual ranges, 24/7 Wall St. audited the urban areas with the most noteworthy rates of heart ambushes. Managing director of Gallup.com said that by and large, occupants living in metro zones with high rates of heart strike likewise battle progressively with incessant health issues like high circulatory strain, heftiness, and diabetes. In Utica-Rome, NY, the top district in the nation for heart ambushes, an expected 43.3% of overviewed grown-ups reported experiencing high circulatory strain, compared to only 27.6% of grown-ups across the nation. The territory was additionally in the top five f or high cholesterol and stoutness (Mendez, 2013). Mendes clarified that Gallup has noted a relationship between low income and weakness, incorporating heart strike. Part of this may have to do with access to quality mind, weakness propensities identified with an absence of training or competitive, solid sustenance. In view of the latest Census information, the majority of the metro regions with the most elevated danger of coronary illness had average family unit incomes beneath the US figure of $50,502. In the meantime, the greater part of the 10 territories with

Which elements of the work of John Locke do you think are most Essay

Which elements of the work of John Locke do you think are most important to the law relating to human rights today, and why - Essay Example He is considered as one of the very first English empiricists. His role in the development of the social contract theory still stands out as one of his best contributions. It is noted that his works heavily affected the epistemological and political philosophy development. It is also claimed that his works heavily impacted on the development of Rousseau and Voltaire (Rousseau, S, Nervous Acts: Essays on Literature, Culture and Sensibility. Palgrave Macmillan, 2004). The theory of mind by john Locke is often cited as the genesis of modern conceptions of identity and the self. It is Locke who was the first person to define the self in regards to a continuity of consciousness. On the basis of this assertion, John Locke was focusing his attention on the need to observe individual worthiness as opposed to group importance. As it will emerge later in this paper, the major basis of the human rights standing is in regard to individual valuation (Asharvin R, Revolutionary Politics & Lockes Two Treatises of Government, Princeton: Princeton University Press, 1986). The works of John Locke have pointed out important aspects of religion. In his letters relating to tolerance following the European religious wars, John Locke came up with a classic reasoning. He fronted three arguments that sought to redress the situation. He posed that earthly judges, the state, and human beings cannot fully evaluate truth claims of religious standpoints that were in competition. He followed this by saying that even if they could be in a position to do so; the enforcement of a single religion could equally fail to achieve the desired goals on the belief that violence is never an option in enforcing of rules. He further revealed that coercion to achieve uniformity would lead to further social disorder hence the need to settle for diversity (Ayers, R., Locke, Epistemology & Ontology, Routledge, 1991). As the above case points, the

Technology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 16

Technology - Essay Example People spend most of their time with virtual people in the internet more than they do with those they know in real life. This makes them less relevant in the society as they end up being loners. Children spend most of their time playing video games instead of socializing with other children as those of the past did (Miller, 2013). Several events could not have occurred without the existence of the internet. Using emails to send and receive electronic mails, for instance, would not have been possible without the occurrence of the internet. Facebook and other social networks, which help subscribers keep in touch with friends, would not have existed without the internet. Skype, for instance, enables people to physically talk to each other, no matter the distance. This would not be possible before the internet age since one would have to travel to where the other person is to see them. Miller, P. (2013, May 1). I’m still here: back online after a year without the internet. Retrieved from The Verge:

How did the government use its power to create and define the idea of Essay

How did the government use its power to create and define the idea of Canadian - Essay Example On the other hand, the government also applied the concept of suppressing radical ideas majorly through banning and prohibiting public meeting as well as rallies that are held by key activists. In the early 1900s, the government of Canada, specifically the Vancouver Trade and Labor Council, Socialist Party of Canada and other political elites, engaged in a competition to gain the complete trust of workers. That is, those that frequently engaged in public rallies to fight for freedom of speech. Their solidarity was seen as a threat to the prosperity of the elite political class and the federal government. 2 The government of Canada also applied a strategy that basically focused on forming collaboration with business owners to oppose strikes. In the year 1919, during the Winnipeg strike, the three levels of Canadian government opposed a strike, which has been defined as one of the most influential historical strikes in Canada by reducing the supply of basic necessities such as: Food, water and communication as well as replacing the striking Canadian workers with immigrants, who were then referred as aliens.3 Moreover, the government of Canada has also been on the forefront of opposing any act of racism and ideologies directed towards discrimination. Philip Jensen is one person that has been on the frontline; making attempts to ensure that government of Canada legalize racial discrimination in the sense that business owners and other service providers deny services to people based on their races and even ethnic backgrounds.4 Some of the strategies discussed above are still applied by the government of Canada. Most governments currently oppose discrimination and have even implemented laws that hinder discrimination in relation to race, religion et cetera, and an idea that is also greatly applied by the Canadian government. In addition, the government in some cases can also oppose strikes, especially those that are

Polish Music Research Proposal Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Polish Music - Research Proposal Example The hymn was being used as a chant as far back as the 13th century, and also served as a national anthem. It was sung by Polish troops, especially during defensive wars with the knights of the Cross. The â€Å"Gaude Mater Polonia† (Rejoice, Mother Poland), a hymn in praise of St. Stanislaus, is to this day, sung at the beginning of every academic year in most of the Polish universities. With the unification of Poland and Lithuania in 1569, the music of Poland integrated the influences of the Germans, Jews, Ukrainians, Byelorussians, Tartars and Scandinavians. The 16th and 17th centuries were periods of economic prosperity coupled with peaceful conditions. This era was conducive to the development of all forms of art and is also referred to as the Golden Age of Polish music. The royal court granted patronage to musicians from all the countries of Europe, while many were employed in the chapels of the aristocracy. This period saw great growth in the musical tradition of Poland w hen many forms of vocal polyphony (choral music) were created. Music was also an integral part of court life, with its dances and other forms of entertainment, all accompanied by music.

Irish Family Law Essay Example for Free

Irish Family Law Essay Discuss some of the key provisions and principles of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the child. Include an example of Irish law or police that complies /does not comply with the States obligations under the convention. Introduction This essay will look at some of the key provisions of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and discuss Ireland’s progress in fulfilling their obligation under the UNCRC. The author will reflect briefly on the history of children’s rights in Ireland. The essay will consider what measures the state has taken to develop strategies and policies to improve the wellbeing of the children. Recent government initiatives will be explored will be explored to assess whether the UN Convention has been implemented into National Policy. The author will also consider the legal framework to gauge if Irish legislation as it stands today complies with the states obligations under the convention. Historical Perspective Attitudes towards children and their rights have changed dramatically in recent years; these changes have been slow to come about. Historically children were deemed the property of their parents and had no rights. In the late 1800’s, events abroad began to have an impact on attitudes if Ireland. The 1908 children’s act Britain and Ireland remained the main piece of legislation safeguarding children’s rights for almost one hundred years until the Irish Child Care Act 1991. The United Nations was set up in 1945 after the Second World War to promote peace and human rights. In 1989, it was decided that children needed a separate set of rights to ensure that children worldwide were nurtured, protected and allowed to enjoy childhood. In 1990, Ireland signed the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and ratified it in September 1992 thereby committing the state to implementing the UNCRC. The UNCRC is based on four core principles, the best interest of the child, the right to life survival and development, respect for the views of the child and non-discrimination. Article 3.1 of UNCRC states ‘In all actions concerning children, whether undertaken by public or private social welfare institutions, courts of law, administrative authorities or legislative bodies the best interest of the child shall be a primary consideration’. Legislation The Child Care Act 1991 is the legislative framework in Ireland for promoting the welfare of the child. This legislation deals primarily with the protection of children in emergencies, or in care. The Childcare Act 1991 Part II, places a statutory onus the HSE to promote the welfare of children in need of care and protection. The 1991 Act also gave the HSE more power to provide childcare and family support services and while doing so must have regard to the following: ‘It is generally in the best interest of the child to be brought up in his or her own family. Having regard to the rights and duties of the parents, the welfare of the child is the first and paramount consideration and that as far as is practicable, the wishes of the child should be considered† (Childcare Act 1991). Part II of The childcare act implements the principle of the best interest of the child in law. The wording in part II of the childcare act would also appear to comply with Article 5 of the UNCRC requiring that ‘Governments respect the right of parents of provide for and care for their children’. Under the Irish Constitution, which is the fundamental law of the land, the family is based on the institution of marriage; only married parents have automatic rights to guardianship of their children. The rights of unmarried parents, in particular fathers are not considered under Irish law, consequently the rights of their children are being contravened. This is in contradiction with Article 18 of the UNCRC, which requires ‘State parties to recognise that both parties have equal responsibility for the care and development of their children. Article 7.1 states that the child †¦has the right to know and be cared for by his or her parents†, while Article 9 requires â€Å"state parties to ensure that a child will not be separated from his parents against the ir will†¦Ã¢â‚¬  UNCRC (1989). Irish law makes it impossible for many children to realise these rights. In the case of unmarried parents, only the mother has automatic right to guardianship. The father must have the consent of the mother or pursue his rights to guardianship through the courts. Article 41 and 42 of the Constitution provides protection for the family unit based on marriage; it does not give individual rights and is more about protecting the institution of marriage than the family. The children of unmarried parents are not afforded the same protection under Article 41 and 42. Under the Irish Constitution as it currently stands, Ireland is not compliant with the UN convention. The constitution, in many cases, denies children of unmarried parents the right to be cared for by both parents. Article 3 .3 of the UN Convention calls for all ‘services and facilities responsible for the care and protection of children to conform to the standards established by competent authorities’. UNCRC (1989) . In 2006 The Child Care (Pre-School Services) Regulations 1996 were revised and replaced by the Child Care (pre-school Services) (No 2) Regulations. The 2006 regulations are more child centred and focus on the health, welfare and development of the child. These regulations are the regulatory framework within which all-early years services must operate in Ireland. Through a vigorous system of inspection, compliance with the pre-school regulations is monitored by the HSE to ensure that all Early Years services meet the minimum standards required by law. The Child Care (Pre School Services) Regulations implement the UN Convention in Irish Law. National Policy Since Ireland ratified the UN Convention in 1992 there have been numerous changes in policy, showing the Irish Government’s commitment to implementing the UNCRC. In 1999, Children First National Guidelines for the Protection and Welfare of children was published by the Department of Health and Children. These guidelines highlight the importance of child welfare and are intended to provide a framework for all those who care for and work with children. Children First is based on the key principle that the best interest s of the child is paramount. These guidelines implement the best interest of the child and Article 19 of the UN Convention into National Policy. In 2006, the Committee on The Rights of The Child (CRC) recommended that Ireland review the Children First guidelines and consider putting them on a statutory basis CRC (2006). The guidelines were revised in 2011 to include new policy, legislation and organisation. at the time of the launch of the new guidelines in 2011, the government announced its intention to put the Children First Guidelines on statutory footing, it will then a legal requirement to report concerns regarding a threat a child’s welfare Nuig (2012). In 1997, the Irish Government made a commitment that a National Childcare Strategy would be developed and an expert working group on Childcare was charged with developing that strategy. Despite Ireland’s commitment to the UN Convention, prior to this there was no national policy on children. The National Children’s Strategy 2000-2010 set three National Goals: to listen to children, think more about what children need and act for children in a holistic sense National Children’s Strategy Our Children-Their Lives (2000). Finally, Ireland was moving towards implementing the UN Convention into National Policy. For the first time children were asked about what they thought they needed and what they would like see happen for them in the future in Ireland. This fulfilled the states obligation under Article 12 of the UN Convention, which requires that ‘State Parties shall assure to the child who is capable of forming his or her own view the right to express those views freely in all matters affecting the child, the views of the child being given due weight in accordance with the age and maturity of the child’ UNCRC (1989). Two thousand five hundred children were involved in these consultations; their responses identified a need for more play and recreation opportunities National Children’s Strategy (2000). In response to these consultations and to honour the states commitment to the UN Convention Article 31 which requires state parties ‘to recognise the right of the child to rest and leisure, to engage in play and recreational activities appropriate to the age of the child’ the government launched Ready, Steady, Play! A National Play Policy in 2004. The objectives of the National Play Policy were to give children a voice, to raise awareness of the importance of play and to improve and maximise the quality and safety of play areas particularly in disadvantaged areas National Play Policy (2004-2008). In 2009 Sà ­olta, the National Quality Framework and Aistear the Early Childhood Curriculum Framework were rolled out. Sà ­olta looks at quality provision and underpins the child’s right to have a voice, recommending that ‘each child has opportunities to make choices, is enabled to make decisions and has his /her choices and decisions respected’ CECDE (1999). Aistear promotes partnerships with parents and play NCCA (2009). Together with Regulation 5 of the Child Care (Pre School Services) (No.2) Regulations 2006 Sà ­olta and Aistear use the Whole Child Perspective to ensure the holistic development of the child while implementing the UN Convention into practice on a daily basis. It is evident that the Irish State is committed to implementing the UN Convention into Irish Law. The legislation introduced in recent years goes some way towards implementing children’s rights into law. In this authors opinion the main obstruction to Ireland’s compliance under the convention is the Irish constitution in its present form. All legislation is subject to the Constitution; therefore, any legislation introduced around child protection or welfare must be compatible with the Constitution. In 2006, the Committee on the rights of the child recommended that Ireland ‘takes further action to incorporate the Convention into domestic law’ CRC (2006). It is this author’s opinion that changes will have to be made to the constitution to separate the rights of the child from those of the family. Many of the policies such as The National Childcare Strategy, The National Play Policy and Children First all underpin the right of the child as outlined in UN Convention. However these policies take the form of guidelines or frameworks, they are not part of the legislation. Following the recommendations of the CRC (2006), it is hoped that the Children First Guidelines will be put on a statutory footing ensuring mandatory reporting of child neglect and abuse. This would help safeguard future generations of Irish children from neglect and abuse. Reference List †¢Centre for Early Childhood Development and Education (2006) Sà ­olta The National framework for Quality in Early Childhood Care and Education. Dublin: Centre for Early Childhood Development and Education. †¢Child Care Act 1991 †¢Department of Children and Youth Affairs (2011) Children First: National Guidelines for the Protection and Welfare of Children, Government Publication: Dublin Available at: http://WWW.dcya.gov.ie/documents/child_welfare_protection/children First.pdf †¢Ireland, Government of (1937) Bunreacht Na hÉireann, Constitution of Ireland. Dublin: Stationery Office. †¢Ireland, Government of (2000) National children’s Strategy, Dublin: The Stationery Office. †¢Ireland, Government of (2006) Child Care Pre-School Services NO 2 Regulations 2006 and child Care Pre-School Services No 2 Amendment Regulations 2006. Dublin: The Stationary Office. †¢National Council for Curriculum and Assessment, (2004) Aistear the Early Childhood Curriculum Framework. Dublin: National Council for Curriculum and Assessment. †¢National Play Policy (2004) Ready Steady Play! [Online]. Available at: http/www.dcya.gov.ie/documents/publications (Accessed 20 January 2012). †¢Nui Galway (2011) Quality Awareness in Early Learning, Galway: Nui Galway. †¢Nui Galway (2012) The Child and Family in Irish Law, Galway: Nui Galway. †¢UN committee on the rights of the Child (CRC) (2006) UN Committee on the Rights of the Child: Concluding Observations, Ireland, 29 September 2006, [Online] Available at: http:www.childrensrights.ie/resourcse.un-com (Accessed: 14 January 2012. †¢United Nations (1989) Convention of the Rights of the Child [Online].Available at: http//wwwcirp.org/library/ethics/UN-Convention/(Accessed: 17 January 2011)

Rear Window Music Analysis

Rear Window Music Analysis Sir Alfred Joseph Hitchcock (13 August 1899 29 April 1980), was one of the greatest English filmmakers and producers who not only pioneered many techniques in the psychological thriller genre but also employed more musical styles and techniques than any other directors in history. Rear Window was his boldest experiment in popular music. Just like many of Hitchcocks films, the music is a crucial part of the narrative and one of the many keys of a Hitchcocks mystery thriller. But it was the unique way that he put the street sounds into the soundtrack and made it in and out of windows and the heros dream because of this, it is believed that he found a new role for music in a post-modernistic film set in a post-war era. In every one Hitchcocks films, song is intrinsic in opening Hitchcocks little black humour of human relationship. The song of Lisa is the heart of the musical narrative in the Rear Window. People can see the process of metamorphosis of Lisa by the nameless composer through the film. From tentative piano to gradual instrumentation, voice-piano tryouts, improvisation, gradual instrumentation and voice-piano improvisation the metamorphosis. Lisa often played against the emotion of the scene highlighting the progress of Lisas relationship with Jeff. In Rear Window, the window of the nameless composer is in the centre. It created an interesting contrast in the film between the romanticized figure of the tireless composer and the cold but intellectual Jeff. The music drift progressed through the windows, and became an alternate language, sounding the main characters unconscious thoughts, contradicting them and moving them forward and finally saving Miss Lonely hearts and Lisa from fear of losing love of living. The first time the composer played, Lisa was in a skeletal form as single piano note with Hitchcock when Lisa and Jeff had their first conflict. Lisa comments on the music claiming it was enchanting and seems written especially for them. The conversation was shut immediately by Jeffs crucial comments thats no wonder hes having so much trouble with love. It seems like composers creative block applied to Jeffs difficulties in love with Lisa. Because Lisa often played against the emotion of the scene, the second time Lisa was played out again is when Jeff took out his telephoto-lens to watch Thorwalds unpacking of knives and saws and empties jewelry from his wifes handbag. But at this time, the music style changes to Lisztian Cadenzas and it continues in a tentative orchestration where Lisa and Stella dig in the courtyard garden for evidence and Lisa bravely breaks into Thorwalds apartment. As the musician performed Lisa with his musician friends confidently in jazz-combo version, Lisa cried out Jeff! but Stella and Jeff could only watch helplessly as Thorwald attacked her in the dark. Till Lisa nearly finished in suavely orchestrated, camera leaved Thorwalds window, moved down and stocked into miss lonely hearts apartment. This is the most remarkable scene involving the courtyard digging, Jeff and Stella tensely watch her put down the suicide pill and stared upward thoughtfully, searching for the sources of the music. At the end of the film, the Lisa theme song begins to overpower the Rear Window finale; this popular song is triumphantly played through all of the windows; everyone had all kinds of reunions and romances. Miss Lonely Hearts is re-united with her life saving composer. Lisa and Jeff figure their situation out; even the heartbroken dog lovers had a new pet It is believed that what Miss Lonely Heart did emphasised the relationship between people and music. Although music did not have a source, it did have the first and only instant of an invisible score for life. None of us can adequately explain how strong the influence of music could do to us. Although music as a camera, can allow people to distrust language and to convey a meaning beyond words. As people could see Hitchcocks characters, like all of us cannot help using some language ,as Lisa said there is that song again. The song Lisa was more complex in structure and functioned differently when it was played in a different style and lyrics, it also offered more detail in Hitchcocks storytelling. Music is a force that keeps the films heroes and heroines in the present; Lisa is empowered by her song in progress. The music performance in this film is profoundly modern; each song is played out of the windows of people who need them to maintain their connection with life. The structure of Lisas work is fine as many other songs in Hitchcocks films, however Hitchcock did not appropriate. It may be because Hitchcock was a grudging romantic with the method of painstaking classicist and the Lisa was hard to show the audience the dramatized ambivalence in the conflict between main characters. Hence Hitchcock later argued Rear Windows the matic experiment of Lisa is a failure. In his letter to Truffaut, he explains what he thought of Waxmans composition , that he had a motion picture songwriter when he should have had a popular songwriter. This highlights that as passive viewers, Hitchcock seeking manipulation and needing the song strings pulled at just the right moments for maximum impact. According to Robin Wood, in Rear Window, every character is isolated. But music provides a mysterious connection with the relationship between people, especially for Lisa and Jeff. Rear Window has been referred to be Hitchcocks most intellectual film. It is a hard hitting, creative work of social comment which Hitchcock and many of his peers considered to be true horror. The music gained the film a great influence on mass culture on the post-war American society. Its an ode to the idea of the musical composer (and in turn the film director), especially when compared to Jeff, the embodiment of an increasingly wealthy and an indefinitely distracted society.

Conflict between the Functions of Human Resources :: Human Resources Essays

What is conflict? Conflict is a natural disagreement resulting from individuals or groups that differ in attitudes, beliefs, values or needs. Conflict exists in organisations because, by their very nature, organisations require social interaction between people with different goals, values, and backgrounds. Recent structural, economic and philosophical changes in the world of work have escalated the likelihood and level of conflict within the workplace organisations. Distinctions must be made, though between positive and negative aspects of conflict in the workplace. If constructively managed conflict may lead to clearer ideas and increased organisational effectiveness. If unchecked, however conflict may become unduly disruptive. Human Resource Planning: Human resource planning is concerned with getting the right people, using them well and developing them in order to meet the goals of the organisation. Conflict may arise when deciding who are the right people to chose, and the skills and competences they will need to help the company to meet their objectives. Especially if there is more than one person involved in the decision making peoples opinions may differ and this may cause conflict over the final decision. They are also concerned with strategies and future plans for the organisation again people may feel their strategy is more suited to the company while others feel the opposite and again conflict arises. This department is linked with recruitment and selection because as pointed out this dept needs the right people to carry out their task of getting employees to meet the organisations goals. Conflict between these departments may arise if recruitment and selection are not recruiting the right person which wastes time and money and disables this department because this dept cannot go on to develop people if they are not right for the job in the first place. Recruitment and selection: This department can incur quite high costs and conflict may arise when decisions are made on how much of the budget should be spent and the most appropriate and cost effective way to spend it. For example ‘advertising’ decisions are to be made on how and when to advertise. Also when deciding on what the jobs that are to be recruited for will entail, judging which applications best meet the criteria set down for the post and finally selecting the best candidate for the post all of these factors include decision making and decision making between a group of people can often lead to conflict when disagreements between them arise. Performance management: Conflict may arise when deciding the best techniques to use to manage employees also how much employees should be paid in relation to performance – related pay. Also after hearing feedback from employees should and what requests they have made be granted.

Option For Prosperity :: essays papers

Option For Prosperity In an advanced information age economy, lifetime earning prospects depend on the quality of education more than ever before. Americans are free to make decisions about their health, college education and welfare. We can choose what to eat, how to exercise, whom to marry and which candidate deserves our vote. All of these choices shape us into the people we are today. The growing trend in home schooled children demonstrates that parents are utilizing their freedom of choice in order to help improve their child’s education. â€Å"It is hard to ignore indictment of the nation’s academically underachieving, morally irresolute, disorderly, and often scary public schools† (Anderson). Home schooling is a necessary option because it is more flexible than public schools, it tailors learning to the needs of the children, and it provides a stable environment for a well-rounded education. Today’s public schools are engulfed so much in a specified curriculum, instructors are there to inform other than teach. Home schooling gives families more flexibility with teaching their children. â€Å"Most home schooling students spend their time at libraries, museums, factories, nursing homes, churches, community colleges, a parks department, or elsewhere† (Lines). These varieties of opportunities for students to experience positively broaden their adolescent minds. Familiarities with knowledgeable occurrences outside of the classroom help shape children’s understanding of the world. Those people who are against the at home learning process feel that it deprives the children of interactions necessary for learning. However, with the freedom from a nine-hour school day, kids have the possibility to venture and actually experience the books instead of just reading them. For example, â€Å"John was able to go to Africa with his grandfather for two weeks and we did not worry about him missing school—southern Africa was his school† (Sale). Most home schooled students do not have the opportunity to go to Africa but, there are always possibilities opposed to spending much of one’s youth inside brick buildings. Other benefits of being schooled at home are that the learning process can be tailored to fit the students’ needs. Under the strict curriculum in which public schools provide, the government determines the pace that students have to learn. It is a known fact that there are not two children alike so how is it possible to teach them all the same way.

huck finn :: essays research papers

-As a coming of age character in the late nineteenth century, Huck views his surroundings with a practical and logical lens. -His observations are not filled with judgments; instead, Huck observes his environment and gives realistic descriptions of the Mississippi River and the culture that dominates the towns that dot its shoreline from Missouri south. It is his literal, pragmatic approach to his surroundings and his inner struggle with his conscience that make him one of the most important and recognizable figures in American literature. -Abstractly, he does not recognize the contradiction of "loving thy neighbor" and enforcing slavery at the same time. He observes the racist and anti-government rants of his ignorant father but does not condemn him because it is the "accepted" view in his world. Huck simply reports what he sees, and the deadpan narration allows Twain to depict a realistic view of common ignorance, slavery, and the inhumanity that follows. Huck possesses the ability to adapt to almost any situation through deceit. He is playful but practical, inventive but logical, compassionate but realistic, and these traits allow him to survive the abuse of Pap, the violence of a feud, and the wiles of river con men. To persevere in these situations, Huck lies, cheats, steals, and defrauds his way down the river. These traits are part of the reason that Huck Finn was viewed as a book not acceptable for children, yet they are also traits that allow Huck to survive his surroundings and, in the conclusion, make the right decision. -Because Huck believes that the laws of society are just, he condemns himself as a traitor and a villain for acting against them and aiding Jim. More important, Huck believes that he will lose his chance at Providence by helping a slave. When Huck declares, "All right, then, I'll go to hell," he refuses his place in society and heaven, and the magnitude of his decision is what solidifies his role as a heroic figure. Quote 1) "All right, then, I'll go to hell el." [Huck, as he reaches a decision about his responsibility toward Jim. This passage symbolizes Huck's gesture of sacrifice for Jim.] Quote 2) "But I reckon I got to light out for the territory ahead of the rest, because Aunt Sally she's going to adopt me and sivilize me, and I can't stand it. I been there before." Aunt Sally's intentions for Huck center around the upbringing that society thinks every boy should have: religion, clean clothes, education, and an indoctrination in right and wrong.

Ginsters Report

GINSTERS Table of Contents Introduction and Background Ginsters is the main brand of the Samworth Brothers, a privately owned family business active in various food sectors. Its product range includes pasties, savouries, pies, wraps and sandwiches. Ginsters is based in Callington, Cornwall. The brand has been building its credentials as authentically Cornish and a local product with local ingredients. More recently it’s also trying to associate its brand with the image of fresh and quality ingredients. This is reflected on packaging, advertising and new product development (Ginsters Official website, 2010). The task at hand is to discover the Critical Success Factors for Ginsters, therefore analytical tools and frameworks were used such as SWOT, STP and the Marketing mix analysis. The external and competitive environment were also analyzed. The first section includes the critical evaluation of Ginsters’ CSFs, while the second section is concerned with developing recommendations for a three-year strategy for the firm. 1. Ginsters’ Critical Success Factors 1. 1 CSFs According to Rockart and Bullen (1981), Critical Success Factors (CSFs) are the limited number of ways and the factors that are fundamental for the continual successful performance of a company. The identification of CSFs is important because it allows organizations to focus their efforts on building their capabilities to support their CSFs. On the other hand, it may even allow firms to assess whether they have the capabilities to develop the necessary requirements to meet CSFs. Daniel (1961) was the first to introduce the concept of CSF. The concept was then used to assist in defining the CEO’s information needs that are most critical for a business (Rockart, 1979) (Zwikael and Globersonz, 2006). The CSFs method is straight-forward, however it has a complexity as it can be viewed from several perspectives. Geller (1985) points out that CSFs can be generic to a given combination of conditions in the industry, market and external environment. They can also be context specific in terms of the organization. Furthermore, Rockart and Bullen presented five key sources of CSFs, the industry, competitive strategy and industry position, environmental factors, temporal factors, and managerial position. It is also important to note that CSFs can be monitored or measured to ensure they are still important and valid as they can change over time (Brothererton, 2004). 1. 2- Human resources development The first CSF for Ginsters is its ability to develop human resources. Embedded in its strategy is the recognition that people are important assets of the organization (Ginsters Official Website, 2010). This is evident as it achieved the status of top-service supplier to UK supermarket giant Sainsbury’s. Ginsters came up with a way of enhancing the efficiency and productivity of its workforce. It designed and implemented a unique branded management-development program, which it dubbed ‘‘Platinum’’ (Politt, 2006). This cut staff turnover to half, mitigated absenteeism, increased staff stability, reduced production-line down time building on improved relationships between engineering and production, and succeeded in offering higher services to its supermarket customers, following the introduction of a new training course (Politt, 2006). . 3 Brand Image and Advertising A full STP analysis conducted for Ginsters (see Appendix) has derived important conclusions on Ginsters success factors. The decision to produce and distribute products solely in the United Kingdom has ultimately been positive and successful for the company, as it has increased its UK cus tomer base. In 2009, Ginsters spent over 1 million pounds on advertising, which has generated considerable attention for the company (Mintel Report, 2010). Ginsters has consistently used advertising and it leads the pack in the pies and pastries category of the market (Mintel Report, 2010). This is important and is evident through its great brand reputation along with goods that represent quality and trustworthiness. Ginsters has always promoted its Cornish heritage, emphasizing the importance it gives to local sourcing and the use of 100% British ingredients. The brand has also evolved immensely. Ginsters marketing scheme has developed to highlight the importance of quality ingredients that are put in the pasties. This is of critical importance because consumers are confident that Ginsters products will deliver on quality and taste. Understandably, the pie and pastry industry is highly competitive with Ginsters competitors being able to produce virtually all the products that Ginsters is able to produce. That being said, Ginsters success lies in its convenience and impulse sector largely due to sales of chilled savoury pastry. In fact, Ginsters has been recognized as the number one ‘food on the go’ brand in the last four years (Doonar, 2004). 1. 4 Fragmentation of mealtimes and rise of chilled food industry & The ability to target and reach segments of market These are two important and correlated success factors for Ginsters. The chilled and prepared foods market has evolved in the past 10 years and has become a very dynamic area of the food market. This is largely due to the trend in consumer behaviour where lifestyles are influencing mealtime. This has made mealtimes more fragmented, informal and less important. This environmental social change has resulted in suppliers and retailers placing more emphasis on the chilled cabinet. Moreover demand for chilled foods has soared. This is a type of environmental CSF is one in which the firm has no control over. However, looking at Ginsters reaction to this environmental change is also a strategic critical success factor. Ginsters understood the impact of these changes on consumer purchasing behaviour and they adapted their products to meet this demand. This becomes clear in their ability to target the largest group that conforms to this environmental change, which are young people and business professional, and reaching their target by presenting their products in the right locations such as petrol station, convenience stores and university union shops (Keynotes food industry report, 2010). Ginsters has also benefited from getting the right product mix to serve their target market as the SWOT analysis shows that its products are location independent, convenient, deeply filled, easy to eat and not unhealthy (Mintel Report, 2010). 1. 5 value chain Another critical success factor of Ginsters has been the way it incorporated its value chain. In terms of inbound logistics, Ginsters has chosen a direct channel approach that is characterized by low proximity. The place of Ginsters manufacturing facility is within a 20 mile radius of the raw material providers. It forms a vertical marketing system (VMS) and more specifically an administered VMS. This type of cooperation helps Ginsters have a great degree of control. The system provides 35% of the total raw materials and the target is to reach 50% (Hunt, 2005). Furthermore, concerning operations, increased investments in production technology by introducing automation systems with quality control, ensured the end-quality of the products and also decreased costs (Growth at Ginsters, 2004; Drives cut pastry production costs, 2009; Keeping an eye on the Pie, 2002; Accurate pack coding easy as a pie, 2005). Outbound logistics have also been a subject of focus for the company with a fleet of vans that place emphasis on delivering to 10000 companies during the peak hours (Brooks. 2004). A company-owned distribution system makes it possible to plan and incorporate delivering objectives, as relying on others would have made that difficult. Recommendations for three year strategy The UK has been one of the major economies that are still in recession. Due to the economic crunch, businesses are facing grave troubles to cope with their existing businesses and are trying to raise capital for investment into new businesses. Therefore, Ginsters should focus on improving its existing capacity and making better use of its factors of production. This can be achieved by reducing its working capital, increasing inventory turnover and implementing employee learning and performance improvement training programs similar to the platinum program undertaken 4 years ago (refer to 1. 2). However, the company must establish some long term objectives as there are signs of recovery for the UK economy in the years to come. The Bank of England estimates that the economy will get back on track by 2011 and the HM Treasury has published independent forecasts predicting that by the same year the GDP growth will be a mean 2%. It should plan for the development of smaller markets and target market segments which although less in size, have excellent expected growth rate. Ginsters is targeting youth and working people, but without offering Halal foods as compared to their competitor Pukka pies. According to The Times UK, Muslim population has been increasing 10 times faster than the rest of the communities in the United Kingdom. It has grown by 0. 5 million and reached 2. 4 million in four years from 2004 to 2008 and expected to grow at the same pace as revealed by office of national statistics. Therefore, Ginsters should adopt a market development strategy to target the Muslim community in the UK. It can incorporate this strategy by introducing it into the heavily populated Muslim areas. Ginsters has been spending a lot money on advertisements and has been successful in conveying the positive image of the company to the people. Its latest TV brand shows that it puts quality ingredients in its products, but it does not convey the clear message that its food is more healthy. According to the survey conducted by Mintel, 16 % of people think that Ginsters food is unhealthy as compared to its competitor Pork Farms which was marked unhealthy by only 12 % of them (Mintel, 2010). The reason for this misconception may have arisen from its marketing slogan, ‘Real Honest Food’. This portrays that Ginsters products are of quality and authentic, however fails to demonstrate that it has taken healthy eating into consideration. Therefore, the firm should seriously plan for new advertisements and promotions that give a more clear picture of Ginsters as a healthy food manufacturer. To convey the idea of healthy foods, the company should take advantage of the ongoing and upcoming events that represent Ginsters target market and could be helpful in promoting its message. It is recommended that Ginsters should become an official sponsor of the 2012 Summer Olympic Games. It can make new and innovative advertisements in the Olympic Games that can help produce a healthier image. Sponsorship will also enable the firm to increase the awareness of its products and influence consumer behaviour patterns thereby leading to increased sales. It will also help to enhance the brand image in target groups’ minds and develop a disposition to change behaviour towards buying the promoted brand, thereby leading to improved revenues (Smolianov et al,1999). Ginsters support of a major international event will help in conveying its message to billions of people more accurately and positively. It costs nearly 10 million pounds to become a three tier sponsor. Ginsters had pre-tax profits of 45. 2 million in 2009 and paid dividends amounting to 16. 2 million, up from 14 million in 2008 (Bloomberg Database, 2010). Assuming a stable dividends growth, there is the potential for worldwide promotion and brand recognition. Instead of paying dividends out, it should deposit them with a bank or place them in investment grade securities in order to grow at an amount sufficient enough to secure a place in the top sponsors of the Olympic Games. TV advertising during the Olympics will also increase brand awareness among live audiences who watch TV broadcasts, which will ultimately pave the way to Ginsters going global. In 2008, a record breaking 70 million viewers tuned to NBC to watch the opening ceremony, not mentioning the other international broadcast stations (The Washington Post, 2010). The cost for a 30 second spot is expected to reach the 400. 000 USD level, signifying the importance of the particular event. In Ginsters case, the advertising strategy should include all forms of digital and physical advertising (television, radio, press, online, billboard, in-store etc. . In late 2009 Ginsters decided to redefine its brand image and target a broader market segment. It tried to appeal more to mothers and fathers while dropping its image as simply a snack. To continue to accomplish this, a massive advertising campaign is desperately needed. Along these lines, the company should negotiate a deal with BBC1 and ITV1 to spo nsor the most popular programs in UK television. Programs that aim to captivate the interest of thousands of British families, which comprises the new target group for Ginsters. Such programs would include â€Å"Eastenders†, one of the most watched and long running soap operas, â€Å"Coronation Street†, the longest running drama series in the world still to be in production and â€Å"X Factor† a singing competition with over 13 million viewers each week (Broadcaster’s Audience Research Board, 2010). Appendix STP Analysis: | Ginster’s| Pukka Pies| Segmentation| Products are sold exclusively in the United Kingdom highlighting the fact that Ginsters is a domestic company. Products are grouped towards the younger population of both sexes due its convenience. The family appeal is one in which Ginsters strives to achieve as they portray a family environment in their advertising. Socio-economic class is not of vital importance with Ginsters as they want to cater to the complete market. The upper class can rely on a quality product while the lower class can rest assured that the product is competitively priced. | Products are sold all across Europe. Countries include Austria, Cyprus, France, Gibraltar, Greece, Holland, Hong Kong, Malta, Portugal, Spain, and the United KingdomProducts are grouped for people of all characteristics, specifically the middle-class family. With a wide variety of products including frozen and chilled pastries, it is important for Pukka Pies to capture the full European market, rather than segment. | Targeting| Products are targeted towards the young students as evident in their separate online education portal and their collaboration with different colleges and universities. Also, they are actively involved in surfing, football, and music festivals which appeal to young generation. They targeted the meat eating and non-Islamic sector as they do not have a Halal pastry| Products are targeted towards outgoing events to garner considerable public interest. Examples include the Pukka Pies England band as well as major sponsorships to major sporting events. | Positioning| The pie and pastry market is a competitive one in which each company does not differentiate it s positioning too much. Ginster’s remains unique and relevant amongst its United Kingdom customers by positioning its domestic appeal. Ginsters have strategized to provide quality food for a reasonable price. As compared to competitors, Ginster’s is ranked amongst the top for pricing. Quality is of utmost importance and therefore they position themselves to advertise quality and honesty of foods. Media advertising, over 1 million pounds in 2009, was largely concentrated on the target markets including students and mothers. This was done by adding more sandwiches to cater to women as well as advertisements at sporting and recreation events for students. | The differentiation by Pukka Pies is their international appeal. They strive, not solely to dominate a market, however to diversify themselves into different markets. Penetration strategies is their positioning technique as their products are available across Europe. | Marketing Mix Analysis Products: Ginsters has got a huge product line consisting of 58 types of pasties, slices, pork pies, hot pies, savories, sandwiches and wraps as compare to its competitors, pukka pies and pork farms. All Ginsters raw material comes from the farms and suppliers present in Cornwall. They have different specialize supplier who provides them with fresh and pure raw material. These farms and suppliers includes Hay farm, torpoint for vegetables, Bocaddon farm, Lanreah for Cornish soft cheese, Cornish orchards, duloe for apple juice to capture that authentic west country flavour, jaspers of treburley for beef and David stone creamery for fresh cheese. Ginsters official website, 2010) Ginsters focus on Chilled products whereas Pukka pies have variety of categories including frozen backed, chilled backed, frozen backed wrapped, frozen unbaked range, frozen pastry (Pukka pies official website, 2010) If we analyze Ginsters product line we find that they have 21 types of different sandwiches as compare to pies and pasties which are few in numbers (Ginsters official website, 2010). Whereas Pukka pies and pork farms have less variety than Ginsters. Pukka pies have some additional flavour of pies including kidney and potato and they also sell halal food (Pukka pies official website, 2010). Furthermore pork farms have bakes and scotch eggs (pork farms official website, 2010) Price: Ginsters product pricing is almost same as compare to Pukka pies and pork farms. For example steak pies from Ginsters and Pukka pies cost exactly 1 ? but in some cases Ginsters is expensive for example Ginsters pork pie is 1. 29 ? and Pork farms pork pie is 0. 91 ? (Tesco Official website, 2010). Therefore we can say that Ginsters have a comparable pricing strategy with most of its product line but with some of the market leading products they show skimming pricing strategy as well. Place: Ginsters only Target UK market. They follow wholesale sale strategy. They have distributors all over UK. They keep their products in big super markets like Tesco, Sainsbury etc. The major area where Pukka pies leaves Ginsters behind is its sale locations. Pukka pies are selling in Austria, Cyprus, France, Gibraltar, Greece, Holland, Hong Kong, Ibiza, Lanzarote, Malta, Portugal, Spain and Tenerife other than UK. Pukka pies official website, 2010) Promotions: When it comes to promotions, Ginsters are spending a lot of revenue on advertisement and promotional activities like charity, supporting local teams etc. The differentiating part of Ginsters promotional activity includes collaboration with different universities including Plymouth University and community colleges at Callington, Launcest on, Tavistock and Saltash colleges and universities. Ginsters also have their online educational portal. This shows that they are targeting youngsters from schools, colleges and universities. For the new promotions Ginsters is focusing on introducing some fruit pies as well. Their promotional strategy seems to be product benefit advertisement strategy. As compare to Ginsters Pukka pies have a large variety of souvenirs including footballs, posters, cups, caps etc. They have an online portal where people can buy their souvenirs. As compare to both of them pork farms focus on introducing new packaging and actively conduct live shows with consumers to test their products and tells them of their products taste. Pork farms are teaming up with Peperami and Branston to launch a number of co-branded recipes. The new partnerships will see a Spicy Hit sausage roll with Peperami and two Pickle Hit sausage rolls – one with Branston Pickle and cheese and one with Branston Pickle and sausage meat – available from mid-March 2010. The company is also launching a Pork and Branston Pickle Pork Pie. (Ginsters official website, 2010; Pukka pies official website, 2010; Pork farms official website, 2010) SWOT Analysis: Strengths * Product variety in comparison to competitors places a strong emphasis on new product development to create innovative, exciting products to enhance its core product range. Ginsters launched mini pasties in Q2 2010 to tie in with the upcoming picnic season and the on-the-go snacking market. * Ganisters position in more than one market and covering them successfully due to their diverse products * Ginsters’ products have a number of characteristics that make them a highly popular lunchtime food firstly their products are location independent and can be eaten practically anywhere. Secondly their products are convenient and can be found in many locations. Furthermore their products are filling and positioned as big eats. Finally the products are easy to eat and are pre-packed. * Advertisement and promotion strategy Ginsters’ promotional activities have always highlighted its British provenance and local sourcing. Moreover their brand image Fresh and hygienic food which is and advantage in the current customer behaviour trends. * HRM program that allows for organisational learning * There supply chain is short therefore saves them money and increases quality * Manufacturing processes are fully automated speed up production and inspection and quality programs to be easy. Weaknesses The product range is not comprehensive and there are some niches they did not cater for, such as the vegetarian market the Halal and Kosher markets. * Ginsters operate only in the UK where competitors such as Pukka Pies operate internationally they are pies are selling in Austria, Cyprus, France, Gibraltar, Greece, Holland, Hong Kong, Ibiza, Lanzarote, Malta, Portugal, Spain and Tenerife other than UK. * Although Gins ters are trying to convey that they are a healthy product. This message is not reaching other market segments, such as women and families. There image as a healthy product is not strong. Despite a high rate of new product development, the favourite lines continue to be the BLT, prawn mayonnaise, cheese and pickle, chicken salad and egg and cheese Opportunities * Increase emphasis on health awareness products. Interest in healthy eating will undoubtedly outlive the recession and there is scope to increase the number of functional products in many areas of the market. * Ginsters can explore minority market niches such as, vegetarians and Halal foods. This can be achieved by new product development. * Utilisation of production capabilities by exploring International markets, as competitors are present outside the local market. Despite the recession, sales of indulgence products such as desserts may also grow if suppliers can position the products as relatively inexpensive treats. Threa ts * One of the longer-term challenges that the pies and pasty category will face is whether consumers will stick to the category when the economy improves and they have more disposable income. Pies and pasties offer consumers a low cost meal that is convenient, but does not tick the healthy eating box and so requires manufacturers to find ways to reformulate their product ranges to make them healthier. When looking at the things that worry consumers the most, their financial situation and the economy supersedes any concerns they may have about their health, so while they face financial challenges, the health credentials of the food they are eating may be of less importance if it proves to be more cost efficient. * Ginsters needs to ensure that they maintain their above-the-line support of their brands to ensure they are top of mind when consumers are looking for a quick snack. The recession will strengthen the appeal of own-label products and consequently affect NPD and marketing, which will culminate in undermining value growth in the market. References Accurate pack coding easy as a pie (2005). Packaging Magazine, 8 (1), pp. 18-19. EBSCOhost [Online]. Available at http://web. ebscohost. com (Accessed:10 November 2010) Bank of England Quarterly Bulletin (2007). 2nd Quarter, 47(2), pp. 317-329 Bloomberg Database (2010). Available at: http://www. bloomberg. com (Accessed: 6 November 2010) Broadcasters Audience Research Board (2010). Available at: http://www. arb. co. uk (Accessed: 8 November 2010) Brooks, Bob. (2004). â€Å"Cornish Convenience†, Food Manufacture, 79 (1), pp. 26-27. EBSCOhost [Online]. Available at http://web. ebscohost. com (Accessed: 10 November 2010) Brothererton, B. (2004). â€Å"Critical Success Factors in the UK Corporate Hotels†, Sevice Industries Journal, Vol. 24 NO. 3, 2004, pp19-42. CHENG, E. W. L. and LI, H. (2001). â€Å"Analytic Hierarchy Process: An Approach to Determine Measures For Business Performance†, Mea suring Business Excellence, Vol. 5 No. 3, 2001, pp. 30-37. Daniel, R. H. , (1961). Management data crisis. Harvard Bus. Rev. , 1961, Sept–Oct, 111–112. Doonar, J. (2004). â€Å"Pasties and pastures new: Joanna Doonar interviews Mark Dudderidge, the managing director of Ginsters and discovers that society's preoccupation with obesity is not holding back the growth of the Cornish pasty company† Brand Strategy. EBSCO (Online). Available at http://www. ebscohost. com (Accessed: 01 November 2010) Drives cut pastry production costs (2009). Works Management, 62 (11), p. 29. EBSCOhost [Online]. Available at http://web. ebscohost. com (Accessed: 10 November 2010) Ginsters official website (2010). Available at: http://www. ginsters. co. uk/ (Accessed: 10 November 2010) Growth at Ginsters (2004). Food Manufucture, 84 (2), p. 7 EBSCOhost [Online]. Available at http://web. ebscohost. com (Accessed: 10 November 2010) Hunt, Gail. (2005). â€Å"Local Champion†, Food Manufacture, 80 (2), p. 35. EBSCOhost [Online]. Available at: http://web. ebscohost. com (Accessed: 10 November 2010) Johnson, A. (2010). â€Å"Forecasts for the UK economy: a comparison of independent forecasts† HM Treasury, Issue 281. Keeping an Eye on the Pie (2002). Food Engineering ; Ingredients, 27 (4), p. 47. EBSCOhost [Online]. Available at http://web. ebscohost. com (Accessed: 10 November 2010) Politt, D. (2006). â€Å"Golden Outcome of Ginsters Training† HRM International Digest, 14(1) Pork farms official website (2010). Available at: http://www. pork-farms. co. uk/index. html (Accessed: 10 November 2010) Pukka pies official website (2010). Available at: http://www. pukkapies. co. uk/ (Accessed: 10 November 2010) Rockart, J. and Bullen, C. , 1981. A primer on critical success factors. Center for Information Systems Research Working Paper No 69. Sloan School of Management, MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts Rockart, F. R. ,(1979). Chief Executives define their own data needs. Harvard Bus. Rev. , 1979, 57(2), 238–241. SUN, H. and CHUNG, W. W. (2005). â€Å"Critical success factors for new product development in the Hong Kong toy industry†, Technovation, Vol. 25, No. 3, March 2005, pp. 293-303. Tesco official website (2010). Available at: http://www. tesco. com (Accessed: 10 November 2010) Zwikael. O. ; Globersonz, S. , (2006). â€Å"From Critical Success Factors to Critical Success Processes†, International Journal of Production Research, Vol. 44 No. 17, 2006, pp. 343-3449.

Racism in to Kill a Mockingbird

Harper Lee uses racism in, To Kill a Mockingbird, to show readers the bad outcomes of racist thoughts and ideas. The sentence of life in prison to Tom Robinson, Atticus defending Tom Robinson, and Jem's thoughts on Black people's blood are all examples of Harper Lee's intentions. Racism is the hatred or intolerance of another race and is a theme that is ever present in Harper Lee's book, To Kill a Mockingbird. Tom Robinson was being sentenced to life in prison for supposedly raping Mayella Ewell even though there is proof that he did not.The jury voted him guilty as charged. â€Å"In our courts, when it's a white man's word against a black man's word the white man always wins. They're ugly, but those are the facts of life. † Atticus tells Jem. This is a terrible outcome of Racism. Tom Robinsons life is now gone because of white man in the jury being prejudice against a black man essay writer cheap. When Atticus decides to a Tom Robinson he gets sworn at by getting called a â⠂¬Å"nigger-lover† by many even his own nephew. â€Å"‘Francis, what the hell do you mean? / ‘Just what I said. Grandma says it's bad enough he lets you run wild, but now he turned out to be a nigger lover. ‘† Those who are racist are very arrogant and proud but those who are affected by it are affected greatly. Tom Robinson and Atticus are just two of many that are affected by Racism. Even Atticus, a white man, is affected by the patronizing on slaughter of racist remarks. Jem, slightly brainwashed by his town and community, has racist thoughts and ideas about Negroes.Jem tells scout outside of the courthouse â€Å"Once you have a drop of Negro blood, that makes you all black. † This example of racism shows how even children, at best, are showing signs of racism in a country where there should not be any. Harper Lee is showing the older community is doing to Maycomb's children. Basically they are brainwashing the kids without even knowing it. Th eir children just go by what their parents do and say. Thought Jem said a racist remark, later on in To Kill a Mockingbird he does not show much racists thoughts.In fact, Jem learns about racism during and after Tom Robinson's trial. Harper Lee uses racism to show readers the bad outcomes of racist thoughts and ideas. The sentence of life in prison to Tom Robinson, Atticus defending Tom Robinson, and Jem's thoughts on Black people's blood are all examples of Harper Lee's intentions. Though Racism is still in this world today Harper Lee shows what racism does and how it works; thus proving the bad outcomes and results of racism.

The Return: Shadow Souls Chapter 27

Elena felt confident and just a little light-headed as they set out for the Silver Nightingale's gala. However, when the four of them arrived on litters – Damon with Elena, Meredith with Bonnie (Lady Ulma being forbidden by her doctor to go to any festivities while she was pregnant) – at the Honorable Lady Fazina's palatial home, she was struck with something like terror. The house was truly a palace, in the best of story-telling tradition, she thought. Minarets and towers soared above them, probably painted in blue and lavish gilt, but turned lavender by the sunlight, and looking almost lighter than air. To complement the sunlight, torches had been lit on either side of the path of the litters up the hill and some chemical had been added – or some magic used – to make their lights shine in varying colors so that they changed from golden, to red, to purple, to blue, to green, to silver, and these colors shone true. They took Elena's breath away, as the only things that were not tinged with red in the whole world that she could see. Damon had brought a bottle of Black Magic with him and was almost too high-spirited – no pun intended, Elena thought. As their litter stopped at the top of the hill, Damon and Elena were helped out and down a hallway that cut out much of the sunlight. Above them hung delicate, lighted paper lanterns – some larger than the litter they'd been in a moment ago – brightly lighted and fancifully shaped which gave a festive, playful air to a palace otherwise so magnificent that it was a little intimidating. They passed by lighted fountains, some of which had surprises – like the line of magical frogs that constantly leaped from lily pad to lily pad: plop, plop, plop, like the sound of rain on a rooftop, or a huge gilded serpent that coiled among trees and over the heads of visitors, winding from there to the ground and then back up to the trees again. Then again, it was the ground that would turn transparent with all manner of magical schools of fish, sharks, eels, and dolphins cavorting, while in the dim blue depths far below loomed the figure of a gigantic whale. Elena and Bonnie hurried quickly over this portion of the path. It was clear that the owner of this estate could afford any kind of extravaganza her heart desired, and that above all things what she enjoyed the chiefest was music, for in each area, splendidly – sometimes bizarrely – dressed orchestra were playing, or there might be only one famous soloist, singing from a high gilded cage perhaps twenty-five feet above the ground. Music†¦music and lights everywhere†¦ Elena herself, although thrilled by the sights, sounds, and glorious scents coming from huge banks of flowers as well as from the guests, both male and female, felt a slight fear like a small rock in her stomach. She had thought her dress and diamonds so elaborate when she had left Lady Ulma's estate. But now that she was here at Lady Fazina's†¦well, there were too many rooms, too many people, as fancifully and finely clad as herself and her sister â€Å"personal assistants.† She was afraid that – well, that that woman over there, dripping jewels from her delicate three-tier diamond and emerald tiara to her delicate diamond-circled toes, made her own unadorned hair look dowdy or laughable, at such a grand affair. Do you know how old she is? Elena almost jumped to hear Damon's voice in her head. Who? Elena replied, trying at least to keep her envy – her worry – out of her telepathic voice. And am I projecting that loudly? she added in alarm. Not all that loudly, but it never hurts to tune it down. And you know perfectly well â€Å"who†: that giraffe you were eyeing, Damon replied. For your information, she's about two hundred years older than I am, and she's trying to look around thirty, which is ten years younger than when she became a vampire. Elena blinked. What are you trying to say? Send some Power to your ears, Damon suggested. And stop worrying! Elena obediently increased slightly the Power to what she still thought of as her burst ear nodes, and conversations suddenly became audible all around her. †¦oh, the goddess in white. She's just a child, but what a figure†¦ †¦yes, the one with the golden hair. Magnificent, isn't she?†¦Oh, by Hades, look at that girl†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Did you see the prince and princess over there? I wonder if they'd swap†¦or – or – do a quartet, dear? This was more like what Elena was used to hearing at parties. It gave her more confidence. It also, as she allowed her eyes to sweep more boldly across the opulently costumed crowed, caused her to feel a sudden surge of love and respect for Lady Ulma, who had designed and overseen the construction of three glorious dresses in only a week. She's a genius, Elena informed Damon solemnly, knowing that through their mindlink he would see who she meant. Look, Meredith already has a crowd around her. And†¦and†¦ And she's not acting much like Meredith at all, Damon finished, sounding slightly uneasy. Meredith didn't seem uneasy in the least. She had her face turned deliberately to show off a classical profile to her admirers, but it wasn't the profile of level-headed, serene Meredith Sulez at all. It was a sultry, exotic girl, who looked as if she might very well be able to sing the Habanera from Carmen. She had her fan open and was gracefully, languorously fanning herself. The soft but warm indoor lighting made her bare shoulders and arms gleam like pearl above the black velvet dress, which seemed even more mysterious and striking than it had back at home. In fact, it seemed to have stricken one devotee to the heart already; he was kneeling before her with a red rose in his hand, so hastily picked from one of the arrangements that a thorn had pricked him and blood welled from his thumb. Meredith didn't seem to have noticed. Both Elena and Damon felt for the young man, who was blond and extremely handsome. Elena felt sorry†¦and Damon felt hungry. She certainly seems to have come out of her shell, ventured Damon. Oh, Meredith doesn't ever really come out, Elena replied. It's all playacting. But tonight I think it's the dresses that are doing it. Meredith is dressed like a siren, and so she's acting all sultry. Bonnie's dressed like a peacock and†¦look. She nodded down the long hallway that led to a huge room in front of them. Bonnie, dressed in what looked like real peacock feathers, had a crowd of her own followers – and that was just what they were doing: following. Bonnie's every movement was light and birdlike and her jade bracelets clinked together on her small rounded arms, her earrings chimed with each toss of her head, and her feet seemed to twinkle in golden sandals in front of her peacock train. â€Å"You know, it's strange,† Elena murmured, as they reached the large room and at last sound was muted so she could hear Damon's physical voice. â€Å"I didn't realize it, but Lady Ulma designed our dresses at different levels of the animal world.† â€Å"Hm?† Damon was looking at her throat again. But fortunately at that moment a handsome man dressed in formal Earth clothes – tuxedo, cummerbund, and so on – came by with Black Magic in large silver goblets. Damon drained his in one gulp and took another from the gracefully bowing waiter. Then he and Elena took seats – on the outside of the back row, even if this was a rudeness to their hostess. They needed to be free to maneuver. â€Å"Well, Meredith is a mermaid, which is the highest order, and she's acting like a siren. Bonnie is a bird, so that's the next highest order, and she is acting like a bird: watching all the boys display themselves while she keeps laughing. And I'm a butterfly – so I suppose I'll be a social butterfly tonight. With you beside me, I hope.† â€Å"How†¦cute,† Damon said heavily. â€Å"But what exactly makes you think you're supposed to be a butterfly?† â€Å"Well, the designs, silly,† Elena said, and she lifted her mother-of-pearl and gold and diamond fan and gave him a tiny butterfly rap on the forehead with it. Then she opened it to show him a masterly sketch of the same design as her necklace on its front, decorated with tiny dots of diamond, gold, and mother-of-pearl where they would not be harmed by the folds. â€Å"You see? A butterfly,† she said, not displeased with the image. Damon traced the outline with one long, tapering finger that reminded her so much of Stefan's that it hurt her throat, and stopped at six stylized lines above the head. â€Å"Since when do butterflies have hair?† His finger moved to two horizontal lines between the wings. â€Å"Or arms?† â€Å"Those are legs,† Elena told him, amused. â€Å"What kind of thing with arms and legs and a head has six hairs and wings?† â€Å"A tipsy vampire,† suggested a voice above them and Elena looked up, surprised to see Sage. â€Å"May I sit with you?† he asked. â€Å"I couldn't manage a shirt, but my fairy godmother did conjure up a vest.† Elena, laughing, scooted over a seat so that he could take the aisle seat by Damon. He was much cleaner than when she had last seen him working around the house, although his hair was still in long wild unruly curls. She noted however, that his fairy godmother had scented him with cedar and sandalwood, and provided him with Dolce & Gabbana jeans and vest. He looked†¦magnifique. There was no sign of his animals. â€Å"I thought you weren't coming,† Elena said to him. â€Å"You can say that? Garbed as you are in celestial white and gold? You mentioned the gala; I took your wish as a command.† Elena giggled. Of course, everyone was treating her differently tonight. It was the dress. Sage, murmuring something about his latent heterosexuality, swore that the image on her necklace and fan was a phoenix. The very polite demon on her right, who had deep mauve skin and small, curling white horns, deferentially submitted that it looked to him like the goddess Ishtar, who had apparently sent him to the Dark Dimension a few millennia ago for tempting people to sloth. Elena made a mental note to ask Meredith whether this meant tempting them to eat sloths, which she knew were some kind of wild animal that didn't move around much, or something else. Then Elena thought that Lady Ulma had called the dress a â€Å"goddess dress,† hadn't she? It was certainly a dress you could only wear if your body was very young and very close to perfection, because there was no way to fit corsetry into it or even to drape it to minimize an unflattering feature. The only things under the dress were Elena's own firm young physique and a pair of scant, soft flesh-colored lace underwear. Oh, and a spray of jasmine perfume. So it's a goddess I feel like, she thought, thanking the demon (who stood and bowed). People were taking their seats for the Silver Nightingale's first performance. Elena had to admit to a longing to see Lady Fazina, and besides, it was too early to try for a restroom trip – Elena had already noticed that guards were posted at all the doors. There were two harps on a dais in the middle of a great circle of chairs. And then suddenly everyone was on their feet and clapping, and Elena would have seen nothing, if the Lady Fazina had not chosen to walk down the same aisle Elena and Damon had taken. As it was, she paused right beside Sage to acknowledge the roar of acclamation, and Elena had a perfect view of her. She was a lovely young woman, who to Elena's surprise looked hardly older than twenty, and was nearly as small as Bonnie. This diminutive creature obviously took her sobriquet very seriously: she was dressed entirely in a gown of silver mesh. Her hair was metallic silver, too, swept high in front and very short in back. Her train was barely attached to her, by two simple clasps at the shoulders. It floated horizontally behind her, constantly in motion, more like a moonbeam or a cloud than like real material until she got to the central dais and ascended it, then walked once around the tall uncovered harp, at which point the suspended part of the cape fell softly and gracefully to the floor in a semicircle around her. And then came the magic of the Silver Nightingale's voice. She began by playing the tall harp, which seemed even taller in comparison to her small body. She could make the harp sing under her fingers, coax it to cry like the wind or make music that seemed to descend from heaven in glissandos. Elena wept throughout her first song, even though it was sung in some foreign language. It was so piercingly sweet that it reminded Elena of Stefan, of the times they had been together, communicating by only the softest words and touches†¦ But Lady Fazina's most impressive instrument was her voice. Her tiny body could generate an extraordinary volume when she wanted it to. And as she sang one poignant, minor-tuned song after another, Elena could feel her skin break out into gooseflesh, and a trembling in her legs. She felt that at any moment she might fall to her knees as the melodies filled her heart. When someone touched her from behind, Elena started violently, brought back too quickly from the fantasy world the music had woven around her. But it was only Meredith, who despite her own love for music had a very practical suggestion for their group. â€Å"I was going to say, why not start now, while everyone else is listening?† she whispered. â€Å"Even the guards are out of it. We agreed on two by two, yes?† Elena nodded. â€Å"We're just having a look around the house. We may even find something while everyone is still here, listening, for nearly another hour. Sage, maybe you could sort of liaise between the two groups, telepathically.† â€Å"It would be my privilege, Madame.† The five of them set out into the Silver Nightingale's mansion.