Saturday, August 31, 2019
Film & Ideology â⬠Milk Essay
The definition of the word ideology can be represented in many ways. Todayââ¬â¢s basic understanding of the word can be defined as ââ¬Å"the body of ideas reflecting the social needs and aspirations of an individual, group, class, or cultureâ⬠(Farlex, 2009). Gus Van Santââ¬â¢s exceptional biopic Milk (Gus Van Sant, 2008) depicts the story of Harvey Milk, the slain gay-rights activist who became the first openly gay man elected to any substantial political office in the history of the planet. Harvey Milkââ¬â¢s life changed history ââ¬â his courage still motivates people today, his ideals still teach people today and his hope still inspire people today. The release of Milk in 2008 has helped to bring back a new sense of appreciation for the hope and passion that Harvey Milk died for. Milk beautifully shows the fights and struggles Harvey Milk had to go through to gain the trust of the people and in order for his ideologies of a brighter tomorrow for all queer people to be fully appreciated by everyone. Harvey Milk was an individual who did not die in vain; his efforts in fighting for gay rights left a lasting impact on the people of this planet and his hope still lives on to this day. Simply put Harvey Milkââ¬â¢s ideology of fighting on and instilling hope in the fight for gay rights when no one else would, immortalized him ââ¬â ââ¬Å"Without hope, lifeââ¬â¢s not worth livingâ⬠(Milk, 2008) It is now June 7th 1977, the sun has set on the Castro district of San Francisco, and the crowd that has gathered in the street outside Harvey Milkââ¬â¢s camera shop is becoming more and more, impatient and angry. We know watching that the reason that everyone is angry is due to the reports about voters in Dade County, Florida, having voted to overturn a local gay-rights ordinance, giving momentum to a backlash whose most visible public face belongs to Anita Bryant. We know we have reached the climax of the movie. So much is happening all at once in the life of Harvey Milk that you wonder how he has not yet lost his head. His impish upbeat attitude and overly positive optimism in the face of multiplying frustrations makes you look up in awe at the wonderment that is Harvey Milk. The gay residents of the Castro are angry and looking to Harvey for leadership. Though not yet elected to office and having lost 3 years consecutively, Harvey rises to the occasion and leads the angry crowd to city hall where he picks up a bullhorn and address the crowd in a way only Harvey Milk can ââ¬â turning an angry mob on the verge of a violent riot to a enthusiastic mass willing to fight for their rights the proper way. In the space of a few minutes Harvey goes from a whisper to a shout, from an intimate message of consolation and support to a defiant public speech. Milk shows us that it is these moments, these distinct modes of address, are connected, and that the link between them is what defines Harvey Milkââ¬â¢s aspirations and ideals. According to Dr. Harry M. Benshoff, an associate professor of Radio, Television, and Film at the University of North Texas, queer theorist focus on how sexuality was and is a product of culture, not some sort of biological given. In Milk it is clearly stressed that Harvey too did not believe that homosexuality was a genetic disease. In the scene of the 1977 June 7th march, just before he leaves the store to lead the mob to city hall, Harvey answers the telephone only to be greeted by a scared and confused teenager whose parents believe him to be ill because he is gay. Harveyââ¬â¢s disregard of homosexuality as a genetic disorder is abundantly clear in this scene when he reassures the teenage boy that he isnââ¬â¢t ill and that being gay is perfectly normal. Dr. Benshoff goes on to day that following the work of Alfred Kinsey and Sigmund Freud, queer theorists argue that human sexualityââ¬âor indeed, race, gender, class, etc. ââ¬âare not either/or propositions, but are rather fluid and dynamic socially-defined positions. To suggest that there is one norm (straight white man on top sex for procreation and nothing else) is grossly misleading and only serves to foster rule by the same and persecution of everything else. Throughout Milk we can see that Harvey, though a very passionate gay-rights activist, is not only looking out for the queer folk. He holds dear to the ideal that everyone is equal. In a way he embodies what Kinsey and Freud say. He did not believe in just one norm. In his fight for gay-rights he isnââ¬â¢t trying to one-up the vast heterosexual majority by over throwing them and getting homosexuals to run the world, he is merely trying to get them to see that homosexuals are no different from any other person. Harvey Milk was trying to break down the social barriers that led to narrow minded thinking of just one social norm. In Milk during one of the public rallyââ¬â¢s he had, Harvey said that ââ¬Å"all men are created equal. No matter how hard you try, you can never erase those wordsâ⬠ââ¬â he believed these words with all his heart. To Harvey Milk, he wasnââ¬â¢t just fighting for gay-rights; he was fighting for a way of life that did not constrict its citizens to conform to just one social norm. Milk, Gus Van Santââ¬â¢s film project that was close to two decades in the making, was released on the 26th of November 2008 and marks the 30th anniversary of Harvey Milkââ¬â¢s death and the brief but brilliant political career he led. Harvey Milk was unfortunately gunned down on November 27th 1978, three weeks after his biggest political victory. The San Francisco city supervisor had been in office less than a year when he spearheaded a statewide campaign to defeat Proposition 6, a ballot initiative that called for the mandatory firing of gay teachers in California. Milk however arrived in theaters three weeks after the biggest political setback the American gay rights movement has suffered in years: the passage of Proposition 8, which reversed the California Supreme Court ruling that legalized same-sex marriage. As untimely as the events that unfolded prior to the theatrical release of Milk, it begs the question on how did Proposition 8 change the meaningââ¬âthe symbolic and ideological significance as well as the real-world functionââ¬âof Gus Van Santââ¬â¢s Milk. The passing of proposition 8 transformed Milk from a delicate, serious-minded period biopic that was directed by the brilliant Gus Van Sant into something much more urgent. Milk was suddenly this shinning beacon of hope that reinstated the hope and passion that was Harvey Milk into todayââ¬â¢s gay-rights activist. There are some moments in the film that in retrospect seem as though it is speaking directly to the audience of the present. As the Proposition 6 results start to roll in, Harvey tells his followers: ââ¬Å"If this thing passes, fight the hell back. â⬠Those eight words speak volumes to the people who are fighting against the proposition 6 of today, proposition 8. ââ¬Å"Somehow, when 8 passed, something else happened that was even more intense than the campaign, which is good. It was an inspiring reaction that showed strength to the people who were against Prop 8. So yeah, it seems to have an effect on something thatââ¬â¢s similar to it: Prop. 6, that appears in our movieâ⬠, Milk director Gus Van Sant was quoted during an interview with IFC. com. The activist understood the message Harvey Milk stood for in the day, and opted not to let his valiant efforts go to waste. To judge from the numerous rallies that have sprung up across the country since Prop 8 passed, many gays and lesbians are doing just that, refusing to go down without a fight. Gay rights advocates have been quoted saying that they hope to capitalize on Milkââ¬â¢s fortuitous topicality. The filmââ¬â¢s Oscar winning screenwriter, Dustin Lance Black, and veteran activist Cleve Jones published a manifesto for equality in the San Francisco Chronicle on November 14th 2008 and launched a nationwide campaign of mass protests and civil disobedience. The endnote of their manifesto read, ââ¬Å"Remember always, and reflect in all your actions, that we are not fighting against anyone, or anything. We are struggling for equalityâ⬠. Harvey Milk was the one that picked up the flag when no one else would. He was the one that led the suppressed minority on to recognition and acceptance. All who wear his badge, or speak his words, or hold strong to his ideals, keep him alive. Milk managed to revitalize Harvey and in a strange twilight zone sort of way enlisted todayââ¬â¢s newly radicalized generation to find their figurehead in the movie-hero version of a long-dead hero. In Milk we see that Harveyââ¬â¢s main arsenal in his fight for equality was that he rejected secrecy and shame in favor of openness and visibility. He insisted that the fight against homophobia begins with the act of coming out ââ¬â ââ¬Å"If they know us, they donââ¬â¢t vote against usâ⬠. Harvey Milk realized this earlier than many of his contemporaries. He understood that in order to gain true equality gays and lesbians should serve as their own civil advocated instead of merely relying on pacts and promises made with their straight allies in high and powerful places. Though he was seen as a radical at the time, in retrospect Harvey Milk is an optimist, an idealist, a true believer in the possibilities of American democracy. Gus Van Sant understood where Harvey was coming from with his ââ¬Ëcome out of the closet ideologyââ¬â¢. In the interview with IFC. com Gus Van Sant sheds some light on the ideology and how it affected him. ââ¬Å"It was Harveyââ¬â¢s one idea that would have worked and probably did help the ââ¬Å"No on Proposition 6â⬠campaignâ⬠¦ultimately, itââ¬â¢s an interesting concept, and that was the way he thought had a huge effect on Proposition 6. If itââ¬â¢s not an unknown, itââ¬â¢s not scary. If itââ¬â¢s a known, itââ¬â¢s friendly and you understand, ââ¬ËOh that person that I know is gay, and this other person I know is gayââ¬â¢. Thatââ¬â¢s partly how it worksâ⬠. The openly gay Hollywood director went on to say, ââ¬Å"But people did come out. It was his drive to just come out of the closet, lock the closet, and stay out, which was followed by many people. And really, it was his death request. If a bullet should enter his brain, may it knock down every closet door ââ¬â that was his last request, his will, which probably extended to many people, including me, because I came out after he was killedâ⬠. This is just one of the millions of example on how Harvey Milkââ¬â¢s ideals and aspiration for equality for homosexuals touched and affected the lives of many closeted ones. Milkââ¬â¢s screenwriter Dustin Lance Black was quick to praise Harvey Milkââ¬â¢s ââ¬Ëcome out of the closetââ¬â¢ ideal a really good solution to a problem that tons of people had diagnosed but had yet to offer any answers to in an interview with ABC Radio. In the same interview he said, ââ¬Å"In the years that Harvey put that into place, that sort of philosophy into the campaign, he won an election and a month later he was able to defeat one of the biggest, most popular anti-gay pieces of legislation in our country. He was able to defeat it, very unexpectedly, with that philosophyâ⬠. The recent anti-Prop 8 movement however seemed to embrace the opposite tactic. It was a closeted campaign, devoid of a public face, largely dependent on straight spokespeople, and run with a wary defensiveness that would have driven Harvey Milk mad. The story and context of Milk, and of the times in which Harvey Milk lived and led, make clear the continuation of this struggle we still find ourselves in. As soon as you lose a battle, another one looms before, giving you another opportunity to try to win. You win a battle, and before you can catch your breath, another struggle is on the horizon. We fall down only to pick ourselves back up again. Nothing about progress allows for much in the way of rest, but nor does it allow for much to remain stagnant. Harvey Milkââ¬â¢s thoughts were ones that changed the world. His thoughts turned into full out ideologies and his ideologies in turn morphed into a revolution. The ever brilliant Gus Van Sant who has a certain knack for merging the lines between now and then delivers to us a biopic that brings back to life its subject. In the post-proposition 8 viewing of this film, we can now see the rise of a new generation of activist ââ¬â ones that have been instilled with a new sense of hope. Just as Harvey Milkââ¬â¢s assassination, which he repeatedly foretold, has meant that he remains frozen in time as a martyr, the Proposition 8 result has, for now, has redefined Milk as a cause. Gus Van Santââ¬â¢s 20 year long journey of bringing to life this culturally epic subject has cemented Harvey Milkââ¬â¢s position as an ideological leader. ââ¬Å"Lives of great men all remind us; we can make our lives sublime, and, departing, leave behind us, footprints on the sands of timeâ⬠(Longfellow, 1838). Harvey Milkââ¬â¢s footprints would have never been forgotten, but Milk has in a way reaffirmed this stand. Gus Van Sant brought about a hero that was long gone and risen him from six feet under to be celebrated again as if he was never gone. Harvey Milk believed in one thing above all else and that was hope, Gus Van Sant brought back that hope. ââ¬Å"I ask thisâ⬠¦ If there should be an assassination, I would hope that five, ten, one hundred, a thousand would rise. I would like to see every gay lawyer, every gay architect ââ¬Ëcome outââ¬â¢ ââ¬â If a bullet should enter my brain, let that bullet destroy every closet doorâ⬠¦ And thatââ¬â¢s all. I ask for the movement to continue. Because itââ¬â¢s not about personal gain, not about ego, not about powerâ⬠¦ itââ¬â¢s about the ââ¬Å"usââ¬â¢sâ⬠out there. Not only gays, but the Blacks, the Asians, the disabled, the seniors, the usââ¬â¢s. Without hope, the usââ¬â¢s give up ââ¬â I know you cannot live on hope alone, but without it, life is not worth living. So you, and you, and youâ⬠¦ You gotta give emââ¬â¢ hopeâ⬠¦ you gotta give emââ¬â¢ hope. â⬠, were the last lines of Milk. (2435 words). References: 1. Black, D. L. (2008) Interview with Dustin Lance Black, writer, ââ¬ËMilkââ¬â¢, viewed May 2009, 2. Doty, A. (1998) The Oxford Guide To Film Studies: Queer Theory, Oxford University Press Inc, New York 3. Dr. Benshoff, H. M. (2006) Notes on Gay History/Queer Theory/Queer Film, viewed May 2009, < http://www. unt. edu/ally/queerfilm. html> 4. Milk, 2008. Film. Directed by Gus Van SANT. USA: Focus Features 5. Sant, G. V. (2008) Interview: Gus Van Sant on ââ¬Å"Milkâ⬠, viewed May 2009, < http://www. ifc. com/news/2008/11/gus-van-sant-on-milk. php> 6. TheFreeOnlineDictionary. Com By Farlex (2000) The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, Houghton Mifflin Company, Boston.
Friday, August 30, 2019
Technology Is a Hindrance
In recent times, technological advances have become an absolutely central part of our lives. Technological advances can gain access to various information and entertainment. However, it is said that technology is a hindrance, not a help, to students because they are distracted by technological advances and wasting too much too much time on computer games and other new technology. In my opinion, those technologies are the tool for students to learn and gain access information.Take for example, when we have to do project or homework, we may need to search information, word process the content and present the project by using the computer. There is much information in the internet. When we want to make a birthday cake, we can search the recipe in the internet immediately. You can look up for the dictionary machine instead of the bulky cumbersome dictionary. At school, teachers use the projectors to teach instead of the textbook. Technology is a component of modern education.Without it, students will not learn the skills they need to succeed in a global work environment which is increasingly dependent on new technology. For instance, Students who learn how to make graphs and how to use presentation software will learn some of the skills they need to work in many business environment. Moreover, because of the technology, the relationship between the students and teachers are more closed. If there are any questions that you want to ask the teachers, you can not ask them immediately.Nevertheless, it is not a problem with the technology. You can call or email the teachers to ask for help. Through the technological advances, you can work and learn more effectively can efficiently. All these need the help of technology. However, there are also hindrances for students sometimes. There are many entertainment options such as computer games, television which is easy for students to get distracted. Students may make their time networking, entertaining on those technologies.As a result, they will fine it hard to concentrate in class and lose focus on study easily. Yet, if students use those advances appropriately, will they still waste too much time on websites, networking? If they are self-discipline, it wonââ¬â¢t be a hindrance for them. Contrary, they can learn to be self-discipline. Above all, technology does more goods than harms. I think technology is not a hindrance but a help when they have proper time management and a correct attitude to technology.
Thursday, August 29, 2019
Customs, Rules and Laws
Customs, rules and laws each have their own varying applications on society. Over time, it has been shown that a strong relationship between them has developed and the different outcomes on society have then become an outline for future years to follow. Customs are classified as behavioral patterns that develop and become established within members of a society. These customs generally focus on morals, ethics and social behavior. An example includes covering your mouth and/or nose when you sneeze.Customs don't usually have serious consequences if they are not ebbed, except for disrespectful looks or a polite reminder from a person nearby. If these customs are followed by a particular group or society, over time, they may become a part of that community customary law. Customary law isn't generally written down and is passed on by word of mouth. In particular cases, such as Australian Aboriginal customary law, these customs can affect the introduction and application of laws. Customs c an be considered the foundation for rules.Rules refer to the appointed conduct in particular situations. Rules vary depending on the efferent communities. They are made generally made by the people In the organization or group and are only applicable by the members or these groups. There is normally some form of consequence for breaking the rules however these rules are not enforceable by the state. Two (2) examples of this include school uniforms and rules for a board game. However due to constant changes within these societies, rules can often be changed or adjusted to suit these needs.Rules are the preliminary stages off law to be made. Laws are a set of rules imposed on all embers of a community, which are officially recognized, binding and enforceable by persons or organizations. There are many characteristics of a law that rules and customs do not satisfy. For example, laws are binding on the entire community. This means that all members are to follow and abide by these laws. Laws are also enforced through the police or appropriate legal organizations and there are penalties that can and will be applied If the law Is broken.A highly Important difference between a law and a rule Is that It Is officially recognized. This means that the courts and government acknowledge and apply these laws. Laws also reflect the publics Interest. This means the laws that are currently In place affect Issues that Involve the entire society. Laws are put forward by government officials and In certain cases, Judges, If there Is no precedent. Laws, rules and customs each have their own set of corresponding consequences and form the foundations for our behaviors within society.Customs, Rules and Laws By Brooklyn become a part of that community's customary law. Customary law isn't generally different communities. They are made generally made by the people in the penalties that can and will be applied if the law is broken. A highly important difference between a law and a rule is that it is officially recognized. This means that publics interest. This means the laws that are currently in place affect issues that involve the entire society. Laws are put forward by government officials and in certain cases, Judges, if there is no precedent. Laws, rules and customs each have their own
Wednesday, August 28, 2019
Associations of Diet and Lifestyle with Hyperlipidemia for Middle-Aged Assignment
Associations of Diet and Lifestyle with Hyperlipidemia for Middle-Aged and Elderly Persons among the Guangxi Bai Ku Yao and Han Populations - Assignment Example Since the study is focused Guangxi Bai Ku Yao and Han Populations, all other populations apart from ones used as control samples will be excluded from the study. Information on demography, dietary intake, and lifestyle factors was collected by standard questionnaires. Blood pressure, height, weight, waist circumference, and serum lipid levels were measured, and body mass index (BMI) was calculated as weight (kg) divided by height (m) squared. Data will be collected depending on various methods that will be used in the study to collect data. Since study will be conducted within certain period of time, there will be specific timing of measurements collected, depended variable like diet and lifestyle, and independent variables like middle-aged and elderly people. There will also be control variables as discussed above. In this study, people between the age of 25 and 65 (both male and female) were used in this study. This study will be focused on two clans Bai Ku Yao and Han. Their lifestyle and eating habits will also be used in this study. The prevalence rates of hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, and hyperlipidemia in Bai Ku Yao and Han were 19.59% vs 36.13% (P0.05), and 28.45% vs 43.11% (P
Tuesday, August 27, 2019
The Crusades and it's effect on Medieval Art Research Paper
The Crusades and it's effect on Medieval Art - Research Paper Example Historically, seven main Crusades have been recorded with the earliest being in 1095 and the last in 1291 marked by the fall of Acre. These seven Crusades have more recently been referred to as ââ¬Å"The Great Crusadesâ⬠. The Crusades comprised of a volunteer army ranging from peasant to laborers where women were encouraged to participate only by giving money; Moreover, a number of the crusades were named; for example the Albigensian Crusade, Northern or Baltic Crusades and Childrenââ¬â¢s Crusade (ââ¬Å"Crusade Basicsâ⬠). Impact on Medieval Art The Crusades were unsuccessful considering their initial aim as no lasting conquests over the Holy Land were made. The mutual respect between Muslims and Christians was instead destroyed and replaced by a harsh intolerance (ââ¬Å"The Christian Crusadesâ⬠). Nevertheless, not all was bad; the Crusades played an enormous role in boosting the economy of Europe as trade interactions expanded. The Medieval period was between 300 AD, end of the Roman era, and 1400AD, beginning of the Renaissance era (ââ¬Å"Introduction to the History of Medieval Artâ⬠). ... However, at the start of 1150, the styles changed, and this gave birth to the period termed by historians as the Gothic period. This change was attributed to a combination of aspects of art, religion and philosophy (ââ¬Å"Introduction to the History of Medieval Artâ⬠). The major difference between churches built at this time and those built using the Romanesque style is that they featured narrow-pointed arches coming from high pillars. Hence, this architecture gave rise to cathedrals as the structures became bigger in size than they were. This together with the unique design of stained glass was meant to relay an image of Heavenly Jerusalem, a place where human matters were to be forgotten (ââ¬Å"Introduction to the History of Medieval Artâ⬠). Effect on gathering of new relics and uprising of pilgrimages For assisting and protecting pilgrims to the Holy Land, military orders were established: the Knights Templar and the Knights Hospitaller. They were monastic orders where the members had to take vows of poverty and chastity and in addition, undergo military training (Snell). The Crusade era was characterized by production of sacred relics that included rings, crosses, holy water flasks and terracotta souvenir pilgrim flasks. Some of the artifacts had images that symbolized religious actions such as receiving of blessings. These artifacts were possessed by both the crusaders and the knights that accompanied them, and they went on to improve trade relations across Europe. The relics gathered during this era consisted of not only holy items, but also the remains of holy people and sites (ââ¬Å"Art of the Crusades Eraâ⬠) Through the Crusades period, the expedition from various destinations within Europe
Monday, August 26, 2019
GMO the Necessary Evil Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words
GMO the Necessary Evil - Essay Example The discussion of whether Genetically Modified Organisms are good or bad for consumption can go on without a conclusion. My goal in this paper is to bring out both the negative and positive effects genetically modified organisms have and to show how essential they are. To achieve this goal, we shall start by looking at the negative or the health risks associated with genetically modified organisms citing evidence from different authors, and then I will discuss the reason why genetically modified foods were introduced and why I think they are a necessary evil. Now that we have introduced GMOs, let us look at the health risks associated with this kind of food. Although Genetically Modified Organisms were introduced in 1996, their side effects on human health have already been noticed; there have been increased reports of allergic reaction, toxic hazards (Wald and Michael 46). These side effects may be seen as minimal, the most worrying are the long term effects which may be more drastic. Children with life threatening allergies are associated with GMOs increased intake. There have been 37 reported deaths of people associated with the side effects of GMOs (Smith 258). Moreover GMOs have been associated with birth defects, stillbirth, infertility, cancers and miscarriages (Bodiguel 45). Researchers claim that glyphosphate found in GMO are the cause of malformation chicken embryos and these effects were evident to human birth defects in areas associated with genetically modified soy production. To be precise the researchers found malformation of the head were the new borne had a single eye (Wald and Michael 44). With long term exposure to genetically modified organisms the dataà relating to the diverse effects will only increase as we continue to feed on GMOs without giving thought the negative effects they can have on our health and reproduction of future
Visual Arts Experimental Drawing Research Paper - 1
Visual Arts Experimental Drawing - Research Paper Example Poor for most of his life, he worked as a wholesale fabric salesman, door to door salesman, in a plant nursery and for a short while at a defense plant before launching into a full time artistic career (Waldman 21). Cornell found his inspiration in remnants of beautiful and precious objects that he came upon during his frequent trips to thrift stores and book shops. He could create magic from mundane objects and his work has elements of constructivism and installation art that influence the onlooker to touch and interact with the creation (Solomon 36). Famous among his works was his penny arcade portrait of Lauren Bacall, his Hotel Series and his Pink Palace Series. He kept a dossier of over 150 visual themes that interested and inspired him. His film montage Rose Hobart from the film East of Borneo is considered one of the earliest fanvids and has been preserved for cultural significance (Frye 1). Works Cited Frye, Brian. Rose Hobart. 2000. Print. Solomon, Deborah. Utopia Parkway: T he Life and Times of Joseph Cornell. Farrar, Strauss and Giroux, 1997. Print. Waldman, Diane. Master of Dreams. 2002. Print. Margaret Olley (250 words) Margaret Olley (1923-2011) was an Australian painter known for her still life paintings. She had more than 90 solo exhibitions in her career. Olley was born in Lismore, New South Wales and did her training in art at Somerville High School and East Sydney Technical College, where she graduated in 1945. She spent some time at Hill end area of New South Wales. Her first exhibition was held at the Macquarie Gallery in 1948. Olley also travelled to France, London, Spain and Lisbon in 1949. She stayed in France till her fatherââ¬â¢s death in 1953, whereupon she returned to Brisbane. She traveled through North Queensland in the 1950s and followed this up with a trip to Papua New Guinea (France 12). Olley painted what she saw around her. She was critical of all sorts of pretense and deliberate characterization ââ¬â like following fash ion, gender stereotyping of women and Australiaââ¬â¢s isolation in the world. She adopted truthfulness in all that she saw and did. The quality of her work greatly improved after she gave up consuming alcohol in 1959. The colors in her work were deeper and her drawings more confident and three dimensional in structure, form and weight (Stewart 22). She was honored with the Order of Australia in 1991 and also won the Mosman Art Prize in 1947. Amazingly, two of her portraits ââ¬â one by William Dobell in 1948 and another by Ben Quilty in 2011 ââ¬â both won an Archibald Prize. One can easily see the deep vibrant colors in Poppies and Checked Cloth while Turkish Pots and Lemons hold a touch of intrigue behind the hazy look. Marigolds and Fruit once again reminds us of days gone by like the Victorian era (Pearce 19). Poppies and Checked Cloth Turkish Pots and Lemons Marigolds and Fruit Works Cited France, Christine. Margaret Olley. Craftsman House, Sydney, 2002. Print. Pearce, Barry. Margaret Olley. The Art Gallery of NSW, 1996. Print. Stewart, Margaret. Margaret Olley ââ¬â Far From a Still Life, 2005. Print. Grace Cossington Smith Grace Cossington Smith (1892-1984) has been hailed as the first of Australiaââ¬â¢s Post Impressionist painters. She was born in Neutral Bay Sydney but lived most of her life at her motherââ¬â¢s home in Turramurra. She studied art under the tutelage of Albert Collins and Alfred
Sunday, August 25, 2019
Development Aid Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words
Development Aid - Essay Example Such countries began to borrow capital from other well to do rich countries to start developing their own economies and thus began the concept of Development Aid. There has been a lot of monetary transfer between the poor countries and the developed countries with regard to the development aid. Development Aid was made mandatory by the United Nations in the year 1946 to ensure that the countries which were destroyed and affected adversely during the World-War II, to recover from their state. The concept of providing Development Aid was to help the third world countries recover from their poverty and help them come on to the path of progress. Development Aid was meant to be the means of maintaining a peace accord between two rival countries affected by war for quite some time. Development Aid helps countries to develop and progress instead of sliding back into the stages of conflicts and war. Development Aid also termed as foreign aid was meant to promote improvement in economic growth of the third world countries and to bridge the gap between the poor and rich. ... r the domestic economy were taken up by a new breed of development economists who argued that investment in less developed countries could be stimulated by injections of cash from overseas. The logic of this new development theory was simple: investments are determined by savings - and savings are determined by per capita income. Since poor countries have low incomes and accordingly, low savings, they are caught in a 'vicious circle of poverty': they experience a 'low-level equilibrium trap' where higher income does not lead to increased saving but only results in higher population growth. Thus, it was argued, investment financed by foreign aid will dissolve this vicious circle and connect the less developed countries to the virtuous circle of productivity and growth. Pros and Cons Good Governance is the latest term being used for the diplomatic as well as the bilateral issues of Development Aid. Good Governance is a term which is very common amongst the general public with regard to Development Aid; mostly hearing at public speeches or through some media like the television, the newspaper, etc. Good Governance as told is like a diplomatic and bilateral condition in multi aid proposals (O'Neill, 1997). Bilateral issues in multi-aid proposals include the two countries coming to a common understanding between each other, signing some pacts which would have to be followed in the following times after the pacts have been signed. Many people and governments are of the opinion that Good governance is an integral concept and entity to improve the flow of aid thereby proving to be a bolster to the economic growth of a country as well as a means to alleviate poverty from that particular country. Many have different views about good governance which might mean different things
Saturday, August 24, 2019
Social Security and Other Government Benefits Term Paper
Social Security and Other Government Benefits - Term Paper Example The generations to come also runs the risk of missing out on the opportunities of receiving government aids and benefits in the form of social security and Medicare as they turn older. This fact makes it even more important for the government to fix its spending issues and figure out a way for future generations to have the same benefits as those before them did. The hypothesis is that the fiscal policy reform in the US is possible so as to keep social benefit level unaltered and move towards recovery of the federal budget deficit. The contents of this paper evaluates the validity of this hypothesis and establishes the possible alternative that might be followed for a more comprehensive reform in the US economy while accommodating policy changes for amending the gigantic federal debt. Study methodology The study has been conducted by making secondary research on the topic. Studies have been made on resources available from print and online media, such as newspapers, books, journals a nd online articles. Qualitative method of data analysis has been followed to reach the conclusion. Finally, strict adherence to personal timeline has helped in completing the research successfully. Narrative The new budget plan made by the Obama government has announced to make a change ââ¬Å"in the way in which the annual cost of living adjustments for Social Security and other federal programs are calculatedâ⬠(CNN, 2013). This shift from the current inflation measure to the chained CPI process is expected to reduce the debt of the Federal Government by US $230 billion. However, this policy also implies that the increment in the Social Security payments made to the senior citizens every year would be lesser than before. However, there are funds allocated for programs meant for benefitting the section of population that are in poverty or very close to it. Some of such programmes are the Supplemental Security Income. These programmes are exempted from the change in COLA calcul ations using chained CPI (CNN, 2013). In the initial years, the growth in Social Security benefit checks would be reduced by only a small amount. For an average retired worker the Social Security benefit in the first year would range between $38 and $45 (CNN, 2013). This range would however increase over time, and would amount to many hundred dollars. The debate on social security Social Security in the USA is funded from the revenue generated from the Federal Insurance Contributions Act tax (FICA), which is a kind of payroll tax (Whittington & Delaney, 2008). Both employees and employers make contributions for the FICA. Workers covered under this regulation receive retirement benefits along with Medicare facilities (disability benefits for people aged below 65 years as well as selected health benefits and disability benefits for people above 65 years of age) (SSA, 2013a). In case of demise of any worker covered under this scheme, the spouse of that person and children are eligible to obtain survivors' benefits. However, the payments made on the social security accounts are not directly invested on the tax payers. The total receipts are used for making payments for the total number of
Friday, August 23, 2019
Two Vulnerabilities That Have Been Discovered in the Past Two Years Essay
Two Vulnerabilities That Have Been Discovered in the Past Two Years (BlackBerry, Cisco IOS Software) - Essay Example Moreover, vulnerability within the system can also fabricate certain difficulties including lack of data or information assurance, system error along with other technical hitches during the process. In the context of present scenario, the aspect of vulnerability or system susceptibility is one of the concerned issues, which is faced by the global organisations (Research in Motion Limited, 2012). From the perspective of various systematic hitches, the discussion intends to highlight certain serious issues that can take place due to the occurrence of vulnerability within the system. Moreover, the discussion will be based upon the vulnerability issues that had taken place in the BlackBerry Enterprise Server and multiple vulnerabilities within the translation process of various protocols that were found in the network address translation of Cisco IOS Software. BlackBerry In keeping with the increasing pace in the technological advancement, the security risks are also simultaneously increasing the measure of uncertain and unethical issues within the system. With this concern, the security over the system is a considerable factor for the server enterprises. According to the present day context, the system susceptibility in the BlackBerry Enterprise Server (BES) is one of the major obstacles and an illustration of threat with regards to the issue of software vulnerability. The vulnerability causes security issue which has been recognized within the ââ¬ËBlackBerry Administration API componentââ¬â¢ (Research in Motion Limited, 2012). ... nerability within the BES component could disclose all the information that is stored and moreover the issue is likely to create partial contradiction of the services provided by the BlackBerry. The vulnerability that is conducted within the BES component could allow the attackers to execute or develop external supplied draft or scripts. The system susceptibility could also allow the assailants to perform in any of the BlackBerry Web Desktop Manager tasks that the valid user could execute on a BlackBerry Smartphone at the executing time of the user on the BlackBerry Web Desktop Manager. The system susceptibility could also enable the attacker to reset the password of the device by making remote access and locking the userââ¬â¢s device. Moreover, the vulnerability also enables the attackers to disable the device along with activating the userââ¬â¢s account from another device through the wireless network (Beyond Security, 2012). The significance of vulnerability to the media or the community depicts an increasing security alert for the information technology (IT) industry in the real world. With this concern, the interest level regarding vulnerability assessment is an increasing issue for the cyber world. The importance of vulnerability judgment can be identified in various sectors, which is connected with the wireless network during their processes. Therefore, the vulnerability can be considered into several classes such as, Management Console Vulnerabilities, Management Server Vulnerabilities, Administrative VM and Guest VM Vulnerabilities along with Hypervisor Vulnerabilities and Hypervisor Escape Vulnerabilities (IBM Corporation, 2010). Network Address Translation Vulnerabilities in Cisco IOS Software The Cisco IOS Software Network Address Translation (NAT) attribute
Thursday, August 22, 2019
The Han and Rome Essay Example for Free
The Han and Rome Essay From 206 B.C.E. 220 C.E., the Han dynasty, in China, accumulated many political control methods, as did Imperial Rome reigning from 31 B.C.E. ââ¬â 476 C.E. However, there were more differences than similarities between the two empires/dynasties. Two main differences were China and Romeââ¬â¢s territorial expansion and their political philosophies (mandate of heaven and monarchy). A similarity between these two empires would be their centralized government adopting bureaucracy. China put their trust in the mandate of heaven, which is a Chinese political theory that gave those in power the right to rule from a divine authority. Imperial Rome relied on a monarchy system, which put Augustus Caesar (Julius Caesarââ¬â¢s son) into power. Another factor that differentiated Han China and Imperial Rome was their territorial expansion. Imperial Rome expanded from Italy to Spain, Gaul, Macedonia, Asia Minor, Egypt, Greece and Britannia. However, although Han China expands throughout Asia, they felt they did not need to expand much to sustain their power. Nonetheless, what allowed Han China and Imperial Rome to resemble each other, was there centralized bureaucracies. This is a government system in which all of the important decisions are made by one or a few authorities in a region. Rowland 2 Han China (206 B.C.E. 220 C.E.) and Imperial Rome (31 B.C.E. ââ¬â 476 C.E.) discriminate more with their political methods, than relate to one another. Two distinctions would be their political philosophies, mandate of heaven and monarchy, and their territorial expansion concepts. One aspect that helped them relate to one another was that they shared the ideal of a centralized bureaucracy.
Wednesday, August 21, 2019
Mesopotamia Essay Example for Free
Mesopotamia Essay Mesopotamia, also known as the land between two rivers, became the grounds of many ancient civilizations that we know about today. Perhaps one of the most famous is Sumer. Sumer was a civilization that thrived off of the two river, the Tigris and the Euphrates. Using irrigation systems, the Sumerians used the floods of the rivers produced to grow crops and support the growing population. This civilization grew into an early form of a modern city, with things like business, jobs, currency, and social classes. How were the Sumerians able to keep track of money and payments and when floods happened without a writing system? Eventually, the Sumerians were able to create to worlds earliest writing system to keep record of all this. Later, that system evolved and became what we know as the Sumerians predominant style of writing, cuneiform. With all the money transactions and trading going on, people needed to know and keep record of how much the transaction was and keep record of what was being traded. The Sumerians started very simply and began trying things like using pictures to be representations for different items and animals. This was what the earliest form of a writing system was. Using that style hey could tell exactly what things were. Over some time, this system developed into using those same pictographs, but now having certain symbols for certain words. This was established by 3100 B. C. However, as more complex ideas than keeping track of trades arose, a demand for a more complex system of writing had also risen. As time progressed, s system of writing known as cuneiform or wedged-shaped began to develop. This system of writing developed by about 2900 B. C, used symbols to represent ideas, sounds, syllables and objects. The symbols were pressed into tablets of wet clay which later, were dried in the sun preserving records and ideas and their history. This very long lasting style of writing became popular among the Babylonians and the Assyrians began using it for their own languages. The writing style cuneiform began to affect the lives of the Sumerian people. It created more specialized jobs and opened the door to education. Education expanded from learning to do manual tasks into learning how to be a scribe. Being a scribe was an important thing because teaching to write back then is not like it is now. It took a lot of effort and was very time consuming. Being a scribe was what everyone wanted because it was the door to government positions, religious positions, and also got professional jobs. These jobs included architects, engineers, and scientists. What cuneiform really did for Sumer was establish a culture beyond agriculture. Citizens could now express ideas about the world and the deities who ruled it. Besides that, their realm of knowledge increased immensely because since there was now a writing system, the scribes who became scientists were able to study astronomy and record their findings. They discovered the pattern of the earth and that allowed them to accurately predict when to expect flooding from the two rivers. They also developed mathematics for the use of dividing the lands among land owners and also with math were able to establish a time system. Writing also developed into a way to express things more than knowledge. People could now write down and share very intelligent ideas and also could now write stories such as the Epic of Gilgamesh. If not for writing, the ancient civilization of Sumer might now have turned into what it did. Writing did more for them then allow them to keep records of money transactions and trade, it allowed them to turn into a more intelligent civilization and also a more expressive civilization. It created more education and jobs and showed them into a realm of knowledge which was once unreachable but thanks to writing was within their grasp. Writing allowed them to preserve the information that was passed down from generation to generation which allowed later civilization to expand on that knowledge. Their writing system not only changed their lives but also the lives of the people to come.
Tuesday, August 20, 2019
Child Observation Case Study
Child Observation Case Study Care has been taken to ensure the provisioning of adequate information to the mother of the child to be placed under observation. I have informed the mother of my reasons for conducting the exercise. I have reassured her on the protection of confidentiality of all my observations and have informed her that I will use a pseudonym for referring to her daughter in all my written work. I have accordingly asked her to chose a pseudonym for her daughter and have accepted her suggestion for calling the child Kirsty. Kirstys mother, Jane, has been informed that the child will not be influenced or pressurised in any way. She will be free to answer or not to answer questions and even to withdraw from the exercise at any time she so desires. I have obtained her consent to the conducting of the observation exercise in writing. The signed consent statement is available in Appendix 1. Whilst Kirstys father was not at home at the time of the study, Jane informed me that he was aware of the exercise and had agreed to the same. 1.3. Observation Process The exercise was conducted at the garden of Kirstys house. Kirsty lives with her parents in a small cottage near the beach. The house has a small fenced garden. It was quiet and sunny when the observation was conducted in the presence of Jane, and her neighbour, Priya, a young woman in her mid-twenties. Whilst it is recommended that the observation was conducted in the presence of the childs mother, care should be taken to ensure that she does not actively participate in the observation process. I carried the Sheridan Scale for 5 year olds for the exercise and noted my observations in the appropriate boxes during the observation process. The observation began at 11 am and continued for a couple of hours, wherein I observed Kirstys behaviour in the course of some small games that she played, first with her dolls and then with her set of building blocks. 1.4 Views of Family Jane informed me about Kirstys mild asthma, which had first surfaced when she was three and continued to trouble her even today. She was under medical treatment and her GP had advised her that most children outgrew childhood asthma by the time they were 15 or 16 years old. Jane informed me happily about the childs excessive attachment to her father, who had a travelling job and was out of the home for more than two weeks each month. Whilst both parents loved their daughter, the father absolutely doted on her and showered her with gifts when he was home. The child had of late begun to act wilfully and was apt to become very upset and show signs of aggressive behaviour if her wishes were not met immediately. Her school teacher had also spoken to Jane about Kirstys wilful behaviour athatupset once in a while. 1.5. Summarisation of use of Sheridan Scale and Assessment Framework Triangle Asthma, even if it is mild, is known to adversely affect the development of children. Janes information on the whole reinforced my findings from the application of the Sheridan scale for 5 year olds. I had carefully applied the Sheridan test for various parameters, including posture and large movements, vision and fine movements, hearing and speech, and, to some extent, social behaviour and play. Whilst the child responded positively to the various facets of the test, and was particularly proficient in dancing with me to tapping of feet, skipping, sketching and painting, she appeared to have trouble in skipping and in participating in more strenuous forms of physical activity. Her mother also became apprehensive if the child engaged in dancing and running. I also found her to be more wilful and apt to become upset if she did not find what she was looking for, or if her smaller wishes, like asking for a glass of water were not immediately fulfilled. She appeared to miss her father, who had to constantly go on business trips. The Common Assessment Framework triangle helped me in understanding the developmental needs of the child from three perspectives a) the developmental needs of the child b) family and environment factors and c) parenting capacity. Use of the CAF triangle helped me in realising that whilst the parents were taking good care of her various physical, health and educational needs, their overprotective nature was resulting in slowing down of her self care skills as well as her emotional and behavioural development. 2. Psychological Theories and Life Span Development Cognitive development is a process whereby a childs conception of the world alters with respect to age and experience. Cognitive psychology, primarily known as the developmental stage theory, seeks to explain the quantitative and qualitative intellectual abilities that occur during a childs developmental years. The work of Piaget is important in understanding human development. Piaget suggests that the idea of cognitive development is intrinsic to the human organism and language is contingent on cognitive development. Piaget proposed that reality is essentially a dynamic structure of continuous change, one that involves transformations and states. Whilst transformations refer to the various changes that a person/thing undergoes, states refer to periods in between transformations. A childs cognitive development is primarily dependent on his/her ability to adapt to various situations. Therefore, if human intelligence is to be adaptive, it must be able to represent both the transformational and static aspects of reality. He suggested that whilst operative intelligence directs dynamic or transformational aspects of reality, figurative intelligence represents static periods in between. In understanding cognitive development, Piaget essentially focuses on accommodation and assimilation. Whilst the former focuses on absorbing ones environment by altering pre existing schemas in order to fit the new information, the latter concentrates on assimilating new information by fitting it into pre existing cognitive schemas. Whilst placing Kirstys development within the context of Piagets stages of development in it recognises that children adopt particular types of behaviour and actions during each stage I feel that she was adequately well developed, both operatively and figuratively. Moreover, she was able to assimilate and accommodate to the environment with equal ease. Her enthusiasm to play Introduction Community care essentially aims to provide individuals in need with social, medical and health support in their own homes, as far as possible, rather than in residential establishments or in long-stay institutions. The enactment of the NHS and Community Care Act in 1990 marked a watershed in the evolution of community care practice in the UK (Means, et al, 2002, p 71). Implemented after years of discussion on the social and financial viability of maintaining people in institutions and homes, the NHS and Community Care Act, initiated by Margaret Thatcher, showcased her desire to radically change the practice and delivery of social and health care in the UK (Means, et al, 2002, p 71). The years following the passing of the Act have witnessed significant developments in the practice and delivery of social work in the country. This short essay attempts to investigate the basic reasons for the enactment of the NHS and the Community Care Act, its basic ideology and thrust, and its impact on the social work sector of the country. The essay also studies the developments in social care that have occurred in the years following the act, with particular focus on direct payments for people with learning disabilities, social care provisions for carers and the contemporary emphasis on personalisation. NHS and Community Care Act 1990 Whilst the initiation of the policy of community care in the UK is by and large attributed to Margaret Thatchers conservative government, the concept of community care, even at that time, was not exactly new (Borzaga Defourny, 2001, p 43). The need for community care existed from the beginning of the 1950s. It aimed to provide a better and more cost effective way to help individuals with mental health concerns and physical disabilities by removing them from impersonal, old, and often harsh institutional environments, and taking care of them in their home environments (Borzaga Defourny, 2001, p 43). Although various governments, since the 1950s, supported the need to introduce community care and tried to bring in appropriate changes, lack of concrete action on the issue resulted in constant increase of the number of people in residential establishments and large institutions during the 1960s, 70s and 80s (Borzaga Defourny, 2001, p 43). With numerous negative stories coming out in the media on the difficult conditions in such establishments, Sir Roy Griffiths was invited by Margaret Thatcher to investigate the issue of community care for the residents of such establishments and make appropriate recommendations (Harris, 2002, p 11). The Griffiths, (1988), Report named Community Care: Agenda for Action, followed by the publication of a White Paper Caring for People: Community Care in the Next Decade and Beyond in 1989 led to the enactment of the NHS and Community Care Act 1990 (Cass, 2007, p 241). Apart from being a strong attempt to improve the lives of people in long term institutions and residential establishments, the law was also an outcome of the conservative governments desire to bring market reforms into the public sector and stimulate the private sector to enter the social services, as well as its conviction that competitive markets would be better able to provide more economic services than a bureaucratised public sector (Harris, 2009, p 3). With social services being among the highest revenue spending departments at the local authority level and domiciliary and residential services for older people consuming the bulk of social service funds, community care for older people presented an obvious area for introduction and implementation of market principles (Harris, 2009, p 3). The act split the role of local and health authorities by altering their internal structures, so that local authority departments were required to ascertain the needs of individuals and thereafter purchase required services from providers (Lewis, et al, 1994, p 28). Health organisations, in order to become providers of such services, became NHS trusts that competed with each other. The act also required local social service and health authorities to jointly agree to community care plans for the local implementation of individual care plans for long term and vulnerable psychiatric patients (Lewis, et al, 1994, p 28). The act has however come in for varying degrees of criticism from service users, observers and experts, with some observers claiming the altered care conditions to be unresponsive, inefficient and offering little choice or equity (Malin, et al, 2002, p 17). Other experts, who were not so pessimistic, stated that whilst the system was based upon an excellent idea, it was little better in practice than the previous systems of bureaucratic resource allocation and received little commitment from social services; the lead community care agency (Malin, et al, 2002, p 17). The commitment of local authorities was diluted by the service legacies of the past and vested professional interest, even as social services and health services workers were unable to work well together (Malin, et al, 2002, p 17). Little collaboration took place between social and health services and the impact of the reforms was undermined by chronic government underfunding. The voluntary sector became the main benefici ary of this thrust for the development of a mixed economy of care (Malin, et al, 2002, p 17). Developments after the Enactment of the NHS and Community Care Act The assumption of government by the labour party in 1997 resulted in the progressive adoption of numerous forward looking policies in various areas of social care. The publication of a white paper in 1998 reinforced the governments commitment to promotion of community based care and peoples independence (Means, et al, 2002, p 79). The paper focused on assisting people to achieve and maintain independence through prevention and rehabilitation strategies, with specific grants being introduced to facilitate their implementation. The Health Act of 1999 removed obstacles to the joint working of health and social services departments through provisions for pooling of budgets and merging of services (Means, et al, 2002, p 79). The formulation of the NHS plan aimed to improve partnership between health and social care, the development of intermediate care and the construction of capacity for care through cash for change grants for development of capacity across social and health care systems (Means, et al, 2002, p 79). Direct Payments for Individuals with Learning Disabilities The Community Care (Direct Payments) Act 1996, which came into operation in April 1997, marked a radical change in the provision of community care for people with disabilities, including those with learning difficulties (Tucker, et al, 2008, p 210). It was illegal, prior to the implementation of the act, for local authorities to support people with disabilities by making cash payments in lieu of providing community care services. Policymakers however realised that many local authorities were successfully supporting independent living schemes, centres for independent living and personal assistance schemes (Tucker, et al, 2008, p 210). Such schemes handled community care payments for disabled people and provided them with help to organise assistance or support. The Community Care (Direct Payments) Act built on this situation, allowing direct payments to be made to replace care services, which otherwise would be given by social service departments (Tucker, et al, 2008, p 210). Direct payments provide flexibility in the way services are provided to eligible people. The giving of money, in lieu of social care services, helps people to achieve greater control and choice over their lives and enables them to decide on the time and mode of delivery of services (Tucker, et al, 2008, p 210). Direct payments can not only be used for services to satisfy the needs of children or their families but also enables carers to purchase the services they need to sustain them in their roles. Research conducted in 1997 in the utilisation of direct payments by people with learning difficulties revealed that whilst utilisation of direct payments by people with learning disabilities was increasing, such utilisation was low among women and individuals from minority or black ethnic groups (Tucker, et al, 2008, p 210). Research also revealed the presence of wide differences in the interpretation of the capacity of persons for consenting to direct payments by local authorities. Whils t some local authorities felt that direct payments could be sanctioned to all persons with learning difficulties who were able, with assistance, to successfully control and use direct payments, other authorities did not heed the fact that such people could indeed be assisted to communicate decisions and consequently assumed their inability to consent to direct payments. Such interpretations, it was felt, could debar many people in need from obtaining the facility for direct payments (Tucker, et al, 2008, p 211). Assistance for Carers Recent years have seen a number of social care initiatives for easing the condition of carers. Carers are people who provide assistance and support, without payment, to family members or friends, who are unable to manage without such assistance, on account of illness, frailty or disability (Government Equalities Office, 2010, p 1). Carers can include adults who care for other adults, parents who care for disabled or ill children, or young people who care for other family members. The governments social care policies for carers include supporting people with caring responsibilities for (a) identifying themselves at early stages, (b) recognising the worth of their contribution, and (c) involving them from the beginning in designing and planning individual care (Government Equalities Office, 2010, p 1). Such policies aim to enable carers to (a) satisfy their educational needs and employment potential, and (b) provide personalised support, both for carers and the people they support, to enjoy family and community life and remain physically and mentally well. Whilst the NHS and community care Act 1990 looked at carers as valued resources because of their ability to provide support, it did not refer to their rights; relying instead on rhetoric to deliver the message of their value to society (Government Equalities Office, 2010, p 2). Succeeding years have however witnessed greater focus on the needs of carers and to progressive introduction of suitable laws and appropriate policies. The passing of the Carers (Recognition and Services) Act 1995 drew attention to the needs of carers. This was followed by the passing of the Carers and Disabled Children Act 2000 and the Carers (Equal Opportunities) Act 2004 (Government Equalities Office, 2010, p 2). These acts entitle carers for (a) assess ment of their needs, (b) services in their own right and support in accessing education training, employment and leisure opportunities. The proposed equality bill introduces four new opportunities for carers. It (a) requires public authorities to give due consideration to socio-economic disadvantages, whilst exercising strategic planning functions, (b) takes account of associative discrimination with regard to disabled people, (c) provides for prevention of indirect discrimination, and (d) calls upon public bodies to ensure that their policies are designed to eliminate harassment and discrimination and further equality of opportunity (Government Equalities Office, 2010, p 2). Personalisation The concept of personalisation in social care, whilst discussed for some years, was formally inducted into social care practice in the UK with the publication of Putting People First in 2007. The concordat outlined the concept of a personalised adult social care system, where individuals will have extensive control and choice over the services received by them. The government committed that social services would progressively be tailored to meet the preferences of citizens, with person centred planning along with self directed support becoming mainstream activities, assisted by personal budgets for maximising control and choice (Aldred, 2008, p 31). Whilst personal budgets and direct payments form an important aspect of personalisation, the idea concerns fitting services to the needs of people, focusing on outcomes, and recognising the worth of the opinions of service users assessing their own needs, planning their service, and producing their outcomes (Aldred, 2008, p 31). Conclusions and the Way Forward This essay investigates the reasons behind the enactment of the NHS and the Community Care Act and studies the developments in social care that have occurred in the years following the act, especially in areas of direct payments for people with learning disabilities, social care for carers and personalisation. It is obvious from the results of the study that social care in the UK has experienced significant change and metamorphosis since the enactment of the 1990 act. Whilst significant progress has been made a consensus s growing that the British social care system is facing a crisis because of drivers like increasing demographic pressures, alterations in family and social structures, rising public expectations, increasing desire for greater choice and control, and eligibility for services (Glasby, et al, 2010, p 11). The need to move people out of local accommodation because of rising rents exemplifies the challenges faced by the social care system. With the financial system becoming more challenging, the social care system will have to find ways of improving efficiencies without diluting the quality of care (Glasby, et al, 2010, p 11). The next round of social reforms, whilst attempting to achieve better delivery efficiencies will have to renew its commitment to satisfying social expectations and basic human rights, reducing costs, preventing future needs, helping people to regain independence, freeing individuals to contribute, and supporting carers to care and contribute to society (Glasby, et al, 2010, p 11).
Finding the Root of the Problem of School Violence Essay -- Shootings
Finding the Root of the Problem of School Violence After shootings at Jonesboro, Ark, Paducah, Ky, Springfield, Ore, Pearl, Miss, and Littleton, Co, serious questions arise such as has school violence risen, and, if so, what can we do to fix it. The truth is, school violence is on a rise, and it can be attributed to factors such as disinterest in learning, the total preservation of the civil rights of the students at all costs, and the lack of power the teachers and administrators have to punish misbehavior. Solutions such as forcing school uniforms, voluntary learning, and peer mediation take a long time to implement and an even longer time to see visible results, but they are necessary to ensure our future in America as educated peoples. We must be careful, though, to not go overboard in creating laws such as the zero tolerance rule in order to keep our schools both safe and fair. In finding appropriate, working solutions to school violence, we first need to find the root of the problem. Does the accessibility of guns really play a major role in the problem? The answer is no, it does not. Putting up metal detectors, forcing mesh (see-through) backpacks, and hiring thousands of uniformed security guards will not solve the problem (Cloud 1). Finding a permanent, better resulting answer demands a closer look at where the problem starts. Kids are growing up these days with little or no real punishment compared to thirty years ago. Kids just do not respect the teacherââ¬â¢s authority anymore because parents, concerned for the civil rights of their children, make teachers go through a long litany of proceedings in order to punish a student (Toby 3). A hearing must take place during which accusations must be made fully supported by witnesses to these accusations to suspend a misbehaving student. Ideas such as ââ¬Å"zero toleranceâ⬠are created to try and give power immediately back to the teachers, yet it only causes more problems. The zero tolerance punishes severely any violation of a law, no matter how small or large the infraction might be, in order to make an example (Skiba 3). This punishing just discourages most students. As one interviewed student said, ââ¬Å"when they suspend you, you get in more trouble, ââ¬Ëcause youââ¬â¢re out in the streetâ⬠¦I got in trouble more than I get in trouble at school, because I got arrested and everythingâ⬠(5). The ... ...related to factors such as disinterest in learning, the total preservation of civil rights of students at all costs, and the lack of power teachers and administrators have to punish students. We need uniforms, peer mediation, voluntary high schools, and a reconnecting of community and school in all schools in order to overcome the rising violence. It is up to everyone to do his or her own part in keeping peace, and making sure we implement these safeguards to help obtain and keep the peace. Bibliography: Works Cited Cloud, John, and Cathy Booth, et al. ââ¬Å"What Can the Schools Do?â⬠Time 3 May, 1999. Britannica.com. CD-ROM. Information Access. 15 Nov. 2000 http://www.britannica.com Lehrer, Jim. ââ¬Å"Re: School Violence.â⬠Online Posting. 22 April, 1999. Online NewHour. 16 Nov. 2000 http://www.onlinenewshour.com Skiba, Russ, and Reece Peterson. ââ¬Å"The Dark Side of Zero Tolerance.â⬠Phi Delta Kappan Jan. 1999. Britannica.com. CD-ROM. Information Access. 14 Nov. 2000. http://www.britannica.com Toby, Jackson. ââ¬Å"Getting Serious About School Discipline.â⬠Public Interest. Fall 1998. Britannica.com. CD-ROM. Information Access 15 Nov. 2000 http://www.britannica.com
Monday, August 19, 2019
A Comparison of Hamletââ¬â¢s Gertrude and Ophelia Essay -- William Shakes
A Comparison of Hamletââ¬â¢s Gertrude and Ophelia à à à à Queen Gertrude and Ophelia, the main female characters in Shakespeareââ¬â¢s dramatic tragedy Hamlet, have a variety of personal qualities and experiences in common. This essay, with the help of literary critics, will explore this commonality. In the Introduction to Twentieth Century Interpretations of Hamlet, David Bevington enlightens the reader regarding the similarities between Gertrude and Ophelia as the hero sees them: Yet to Hamlet, Ophelia is no better than another Gertrude: both are tender of heart but submissive to the will of importunate men, and so are forced into uncharacteristic vices. Both would be other than what they are, and both receive Hamletââ¬â¢s exhortations to begin repentance by abstaining from pleasure. ââ¬Å"Get thee to a nunneryâ⬠; ââ¬Å"Assume a virtue if you have it not.â⬠(9) As Bevington says, both Gertrude and Ophelia are ââ¬Å"tender of heart,â⬠motivated by love and a desire for quiet familial harmony among the members of their courtly society in Elsinore. At the first social function in the play, Gertrude is motivated out of love for her son to advise: Dear Hamlet, cast thy nighted color off, And let thine eye look like a friend on Denmark. Do not for ever with thy vailed lids Seek for thy noble father in the dust. (1.2) Likewise does she ask that the prince remain with the family: ââ¬Å"Let not thy mother lose her prayers, Hamlet, / I pray thee stay with us, go not to Wittenberg.â⬠Later, when the heroââ¬â¢s supposed ââ¬Å"madnessâ⬠is the big concern, Gertrude lovingly sides with her husband in the analysis of her sonââ¬â¢s condition: ââ¬Å"I doubt it is no other but the main, / His fatherââ¬â¢s death and our oââ¬â¢erhasty marriage.â⬠Later she confides her family... ...NJ: Hayden Book Co., Inc., 1973. Jorgensen, Paul A. ââ¬Å"Hamlet.â⬠William Shakespeare: the Tragedies. Boston: Twayne Publ., 1985. N. pag. http://www.freehomepages.com/hamlet/other/jorg-hamlet.html Kermode, Frank. ââ¬Å"Hamlet.â⬠The Riverside Shakespeare. Ed. G. Blakemore Evans. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Co., 1974. Pennington, Michael. ââ¬Å"Ophelia: Madness Her Only Safe Haven.â⬠Readings on Hamlet. Ed. Don Nardo. San Diego: Greenhaven Press, 1999. Rpt. from ââ¬Å"Hamletâ⬠: A Userââ¬â¢s Guide. New York: Limelight Editions, 1996. Pitt, Angela. ââ¬Å"Women in Shakespeareââ¬â¢s Tragedies.â⬠Readings on The Tragedies. Ed. Clarice Swisher. San Diego: Greenhaven Press, 1996. Rpt. from Shakespeareââ¬â¢s Women. N.p.: n.p., 1981. Shakespeare, William. The Tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark. Massachusetts Institute of Technology. 1995. http://www.chemicool.com/Shakespeare/hamlet/full.html Ã
Sunday, August 18, 2019
My Strengths and Weaknesses as a Writer Essay -- Writing an Essay
The art of writing is a complex and difficult process. Proper writing requires careful planning, revision, and proofreading. Throughout the past semester, the quality of my writing has evolved significantly. At first, I struggled with the separation of different types of paragraphs, and I found writing them laborious. Constant practice, however, has eliminated many of my original difficulties, and helped to inspire confidence in my skills. As a collegiate writer, my strength lies in my clear understanding of the fundamentals of writing, while my primary weakness is proofreading my own work. During the transition from a high school writer to a collegiate writer, my strength at understanding the basic principles of good writing has remained consistent. I grasp the ...
Saturday, August 17, 2019
English as a Second Language Essay
It has been said that the Earth is shrinking. Not only has air travel reduced the time it takes to get from one country to another, but the internet has also served to shrink our planet. With new technology like email, Skype and Facebook bridging people together in spite of how far apart they may be, it is more likely than ever that a person will need to speak a second language. If one is interested in taking advantage of our shrinking planet, and using these new technologies to acquire information then I would recommend learning English as a second language. For the time being at least, I believe English is the language that doors to information and opportunities. Many of the new technologies that allow people to connect from across the world are primarily conducted in English, Facebook, Tumblr, Linked In and other networking sites cater to English speaking users. The speaker of another language who can master English will have a whole array of communicative networking sites at their disposal. The speaker of English would also have many sources of information open to him. News sources like the BBC, CNN as well as less popular but still thought provoking sources like Slate, Salon and The Huffington Post, Furthermore, research sources like J-Stor and LexisNexis would be there to provide papers, articles and research materials on thousands of different topics and areas of study. If you look at many of the job search sites on the internet, it is becoming increasingly apparent that knowledge of a second language is primary qualification for job seekers. As companies have become more global, their desire for bilingual speakers has become more urgent. The applicant who speaks English as a second language has significant advantage over other applicants. In conclusion, I believe it is clear that there are many advantages to speaking English as a second language. More networking is possible, more information is available and job prospects are better. Many rewards await the person wh o takes the time to learn English as a second language. For these reason I would advice someone who is considering learning a second language to choose English.
Friday, August 16, 2019
The Wonders of Planet Earth
ââ¬ËThe perpetual cycle of change which has created the face of the Earth, with all its rugged and Fascinating variety usually happens too slowly to be noticed. But occasionally it is rapid and Violent. Volcanoes disgorge molten lava, earthquakes rip open the landscape, landslides, carry away Whole mountainsides. Then human beings become aware of the awesome forces that are shaping Their planet. These forces are fuelled by three powerful sources of energy ââ¬â heat from within the Earth, heat from the Sun, and the force of gravity.Every landform in the world has been shaped by these ttu. ee energy sources. ââ¬Ëthe continents that drift across the surface of the globe, setting off volcanoes and earthquakes and Building mountains. are driven by heat from the Earth's interior which has a temperature of about 5000â⬠³C (9000'F). Most of this heat is created by the breakdown of radioactive elements. Earth is unique among the planets of the Solar System in having liquid water on the surface and water has a major role in shaping the planet.The warmth of the Sun evaporates water from seas and lakes. The vapor rises and condenses to form clouds and then falls again as rain and snow. It is then that its landscaping powers begin, weathering rocks and washing away the loose material. or grinding down the landscape under the power of a glacier. The Sun's heat also produces the rain and the waves that scour the land. The third force ââ¬â gravity ââ¬â causes the tides, which nibble away at the edges of continents, and landslides. hich alter the shape of mountains. Under the influence of gravity. rain works its way downwards as streams and rivers, carving the terrain. On its journey, it carries fragments of rock and sand to be deposited on the ocean floor. And over thousands of years more rock which may then be buckled and lifted up by movement of the Earth's crust to form new mountains. {source: Readers Digest, Discovering the Wonders of our World A guide to natures Sciences marvels]
Thursday, August 15, 2019
Biological Importance of Water
The Biological Importance Of Water Water plays a huge role in our lives, the molecule which is comprised of two atoms of hydrogen and one atom of oxygen bonded together has many complex properties. The molecule maintains a bent shape due to its tetrahedral arrangement and the negative lone pair of electrons on the oxygen. The electrons from both hydrogen and oxygen are joined covalently but the difference in electronegativity lets the electrons from hydrogen get pulled slightly toward the oxygen therefore making the hydrogen positive and the oxygen negative (a dipole molecule). Hence water being a polar molecule, the result of this lets water get attracted to other polar molecules and more importantly to other water molecules. Hydrogen bonds form in-between these polar molecules. The many unique properties water withholds will be discussed in this essay varying from its thermal properties to its solvent properties. The polar molecule attracts other polar water molecules. The slightly negative oxygen is attracted to the slightly positive hydrogen. Weak hydrogen bonds connect them. Electrons are pulled closer to oxygen making oxygen negative and hydrogen positive and therefore polarised. Solvent properties Since water is polarized it attracts ions and other polarized molecules. Water can collect around the molecule separate it making the chemicals able to move freely around and react with other chemicals. For example when NaCl enters water they dissociate into ions (Na+) and (Cl-), this occurs because both ions are more attracted to water dipoles. The water molecules surround the ions therefore making it hydrated, the molecules are bound providing a osmotic surface. This process takes place withen animals and plants. In order for a plant to abssorb minerals from the soil and for the blood(waterbased) to transport glucose, amino acids and minerals. Without this soloution living orgasisms wouldnââ¬â¢t be able to physical survie due to lack of nutrients. All metablic reactions happen in this soloution, such a respiration, excretion and photosythesis. In the circumstance that a molecules intermoleculer bonds are to strong the charged surface normally gets attracted to water which would then remain isolated, this therefore avoids them joining ââ¬â collodical suspension. The plasma in your blood is a example of a collodical suspension as it carries all the nurtirents and elctrolytes but doesnââ¬â¢t fuse with the red blood cells. Thermal properties A realtively large proportion of energy is needed to increase the tempreture of water (high heat capacity) because of the large amounts of hydrogen bonds water pocesses. The more water content there is the harder it is to change the tempreture. Due to the high water content inside our bodies changing tempreture is a slow process, making maintaing a stable body tempreture easy, water acts as a buffer. This is obviously a advantage so enzymes can work at there optium tempreture. When sweating occurs a lot of heat energy escapes via evaperation making it a good cooling mechanism and helping organisms mantian the optium body tempreture which is vital to endothermic organisms. Density and freezing properties When water is solid , its less dense then it was when it was in liquid form. Ice floats because it is about 9% less dense than liquid water. The density of water starts to decrease after 4 celsus and therefore starts to float, insulating water particals below it. As water cools below 4à °C, the hydrogen bonds adjust to hold the negatively charged oxygen atoms apart. This produces a crystal lattice. If it wasnââ¬â¢t for density being less dense water would sink and the whole ocean would freeze killing water life and reducing the circulate nutrients in oceans. When water freezes is expands inorder to make space for more hydrogen bonds. Water stays liquid through a large tempreture range which helps water animals live. High surface tension and cohesion Since water moves together in long unbroken columns through plants (xylem tissue)- the low viscosity allows water to drift easily. Transpiration steam occurs in soloution and is held together by cohesion. Water molecules attach to the xylem vessel showing the use of adhesion(because both water and cellulose are polar molecules there is a strong attraction for water within the hollow capillaries of the xylem). The guard cell is turgid because it has an increase in turgor pressure ââ¬â water enters the central vacuole by osmosis. The cohesion of water molecules creates a large surface tenison ontop of the water letting small organisms use it as a habitat. Water also effects the support of mammals due to the waterfilled tissue which boosts are skeletal support. All of these properties show that water has great biological importance and is fundamentally vital for any living organisms to survive.
Wednesday, August 14, 2019
Analysing Financial Statement of Gul Ahmed Textile Mill LTD Essay
OBJECTIVE: Objective of our analysis is that we are a bank and we will provide loan to Gul Ahmed because Gul Ahmed has applied for a loan, so we are going to check the credit worthiness of Gul Ahmed by analyzing their financial statements in detail to see whether providing loan to Gul Ahmed will be appropriate or not. COMPANY PROFILE: Gul Ahmed is one of the largest home textile manufacturing companies in Pakistan. Since its inception in 1953, the company has been a trend-setter in the Pakistani textile industry and has serviced a diverse range of customers across the globe. Gul-Ahmed is a completely vertical textile mill comprising ofà state-of-the-art spinning, weaving, yarn-dyeing, piece-dyeing, printing (pigment and reactive on rotary as well as flat bed), stitching, embroidery and quilting facilities. The vertical structure gives Gul Ahmed much better control over the quality of its products as compared to other mills. Apart from the state of the art production facilities, Gul Ahmed is also equipped with the latest effluent treatment plant, caustic recovery, steam recovery and waste heat recovery plants. This makes Gul Ahmed one of the greenest and most socially responsible textile mills in the region. Gul-Ahmedââ¬â¢s product range is quite diverse, and includes sheets, comforters, multi needle quilts/duvets, decorative pillows, window hangings, table & Kitchen Linen etc. Gul Ahmed also has the capability to do foam-back/black-out curtains and lining, as well as acrylic coating and flocking. TEXTILE INDUSTRIES OF PAKISTAN: The Pakistan textile industry total export is around 9.6 billion US dollars. The textile industry contributes approximately 46 percent to the total output or 8.5 percent of the country GDP. In Asia, Pakistan is the 8th largest exporter of textile products providing employment to 38 percent of the work force in the country. However, the textile industry currently faces massive challenges. The textile sector enjoys a pivotal position in the exports of Pakistan. In Asia, Pakistan is the 8th largest exporter of textile products. The contribution of this industry to the total GDP is 8.5%. It provides employment to about 15 million people, 30% of the country work force of about 49million. The annual volume of total world textile trade is US$18 trillion which is growing at 2.5 percent. Out of it, Pakistanââ¬â¢s share is less than one per cent. The development of the Manufacturing Sector has been given the highest priority since Pakistanââ¬â¢s founding with major stress on Agro-Based I ndustries. For Pakistan which was one of the leading producers of cotton in the world, the development of a Textile Industry making full use of its abundant resources of cotton has been a priority area towards industrialization. At present, there are 1,221à ginning units, 442 spinning units, 124 large spinning units and 425 small units which produce textile products. Pakistanââ¬â¢s textile sector earned US$5.77 billion during the 2003 year, compared with US$5.577 BILLION OF 2000-2001 indicating a growth of 0.69%. The total exports of textile sector in 2004 were US 5.7 billion which shows 2.5% growth it increase to 4% growth in 2005 as compared to 2004.The textile sector shows 8% negative growth in 2006.The negative growth continue in 2007 aslo with the value of 5%.The textile sector shows 15% growth in 2008. Now we will discuss the main reasons of crisis in textile industry step by step in detail. a. Lack of Modernize Equipment Moreover, critics argue that the textile industry has obsolete equipment and machinery. The inability to timely modernize the equipment and machinery has led to the decline of Pakistani textile competitiveness. Due to obsolete technology the cost of production is higher in pakistan as compared to other countries like India, Bangladesh & china. b. Raw material Prices Prices of cotton & other raw material used in textile industry fluctuate rapidly in Pakistan. The rapid increase in the price raw material effect the cost of production badly. The increase in raw material prices fluctuate rapidly due to double digit inflation. Sealand Logistics Solutions is helping textile oriented comanies with the help of logistics solutions in importing modern equipment and make valuable connections with reliable leading raw material provider at very competitive prices. INDUSTRY OVERVIEW Textile industry has the biggest share of Pakistan exports from raw material to finished goods in different global markets. During FY 2011-12 the countryââ¬â¢s textile exports have drastically reduced by 10% to $12.529 billion against $13.975 billion of FY 2010-11. One of the major causes of underperformance is the persistent electricity and gas load shedding plaguing the industry which has hindered the performance and competitiveness of the textile industry. The consumer sentiments in US and EU remained bearish, causing a decline in textile related purchases. Up till March 2012,à global textile exports declined by 9.4 %. A major reason for this was excess stocks built up by the retailers and stuck up within the supply chain. It took almost a year for the supply chain to free itself from legacy stocks. Finally activity has started to pick up across large retailers in the west and we expect to see significant improvements this year. AUDITORS: The present auditor is Hyder Bhimji & Co. Chartered Accountant for Gul ahmed Textile retire and wait for other appointment, they have been winning the trust of Gul ahmed from 2009 to till today before that till 2007 were Gardezi & Co. Chartered Accountant. The Auditor statement for 2012 was as Balance sheet, P & L, Cash flow and other comprehensive income statement were in accordance with the Company Ordinance 1984, in our opinion proper books of account have been kept by the companyââ¬â¢s ordinance, 1984. IMPORTANT KEY POINTS: Mr.Zain Basheer, Director of GAMT and son of Muhommad Ali Basheer Chairman of GAMT when found out that price of yarn was about to increase at the start of the 2012 year, realized that purchase of yarn in bulk quantity can result in big profits. So, he decided to purchase yarn in big quantity and as he planned GAMT invest a huge amount in buying yarn. But luck was not really in their favor and the price of yarn falls down with a big margin and they face a real difficult time and as a result their Cost of Sales increases which results in big losses in 2012 as compared to 2011 in which they hit the gigantic mark of 26 billion Rupee which made them the best textile in this era. Their Expenses also increase because they paid the big amount in Murabaha also in 2012. Interest Expenses and Taxation also shows the clear difference in 2012 from 2011 that also was one of the reason of losses. If you see on the vertical analysis Equity section their Capital and Reserves increase that is why the loss which fall to -1.25 from positive figure 5.23 hard to figure in overall equity section but the reserves was at the beginning of 2012, which means it was covered in 2011 and by the end of 2012 their reserves are less because of huge loss. PERFORMANCE EXPECTATIONS: Performance expectation after analyzing the financial statement of Gul ahmed is very good compared to any other textile mill. The Companyââ¬â¢s sales amounting to Rs. 25,064 million is declined by 1.46% a compared to the corresponding year. Drop in exports have been compensated by increase in local sales. Decline in gross profit is due to the inflation without any corresponding increase in selling prices. During the fiscal year (FY) 2012 tight financial conditions, weak confidence and fiscal consolidation in various advanced economies hampered the economic progress. Many emerging economies were also hit by decreased investment and anticipated growth uncertainty, which led to equity price declines, capital outflows and currency depreciation. As perth World Economic Forum, the world GDP growth on YoY basis will drop from 4% in 2011 to about 3.5% in 2012. Domestically, GDP for FY 2012 was 3.7% (FY 2011: 3%) as per Economic Survey of Pakistan 2012. The increase was mainly due to the growth in commodity producing sectors, specially the agriculture sector in the country.Total investment and exports showed a significant contraction. The total investment, as a percentage of GDP, has fallen to 12.5% in FY 2012 (FY 2011:13.1%), which does not bode well for the future productive capacity of the economy. Inflation in June 2012 was 11.3% (June 2011: 13.1%) on YoY basis which was due to increase in energy and oil prices, supply disruptions due to heavy rains earlier at the start of the fiscal year and increased borrowings by the government. During the first half of the year 2012, State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) reduced the policy rate by 200 basis point lowering it to 12% and kept the rate unchanged during the second half. The reduction of 200 basis point was made to improve the falling private investment which is compromising the medium term productive capacity of the economy, and to control future inflation. After assessing the impact of reduction in theà first half, SBP realized that continued energy shortage is a major factor behind low demand for private credit for fixed investment. Return on Equity shows also a clear increasing trend for GATM, Equity is growing as it is a growing industry and in 2011 it shows a great impact in equity as it was the year which change the history for GATM they cossed the gigantic mark of 25 billion rupee then in 2012 it is slightly decreasing. Sales in Millions Lawsuits and contingencies: The Group owns and possesses a plot of land measuring 44 acres in Deh Khanto, which is appearing in the books at a cost of Rs. 64 million. The Group holds title deeds of the land which are duly registered in its name. Ownership of the land has been challenged in the Sindh High Court by some claimants who claim to be the owners, as this land was previously sold to them and subsequently resold to the Group. The claim of the alleged owners is fictitious. The Group is confident that its title to the land is secure and accordingly no provision has been made in these financial statements. The Group has filed a suit in the Sindh High Court for recovery of Rs.33.409 million (2011: Rs. 33.43 million) included in other receivables. The Groupââ¬â¢s management and its legal counsel are of the opinion that the case will be decided in the Groupââ¬â¢s favour and as such no provision has been made there against. The Group has filed a Petition in the Sindh High Court against order passed by the Board of Trustees, Employeesââ¬â¢ Old-Age Benefits Institution (EOBI) for upholding the unjustified additional demand of payment raised by EOBI for accounting years 2000-01 and 2001-02 amounting to Rs. 50.827 million (2011: Rs. 50.827 million). This demand has been raised after lapse of more than two years although the records and books of the Group were verified by the EOBI to their entire satisfaction and finalization of all matters by EOBI. The Honorable Sindh High Court has already restrained EOBI from taking any action or proceedings against the Group. No provision has been made there against in these financial statements as the Group is confident of theà favorable outcome of the Petition. The Group has filed a Constitution Petition in the Sindh High Court against the City District Government of Karachi for striking down the unjustified demand of payment of Ground Rent of Rs. 10 million. The Honorable Sindh High Court has already restrained the City District Government of Karachi from taking any coercive action against the Group. No provision has been made there against in these financial statements as the Group is confident of the favourable outcome of the Petition. INVESTMENTS: By looking at the financial statements of GATM, we donââ¬â¢t find any unwise investment made by the company. The following information from cash flow gives a clear idea about all current cash generating from cash flows for the following year. Addition to property,plant & equipment. Would you recommend a buy/sell/hold on stock given on the current price stock prices? Why? Price targeted have been updates at GATM, if you see the present condition as investorââ¬â¢s overview Earning per share at year ended 2012 was (1.89) and P/E ratio was (11.17), a negative EPS numbers are usually reported as ââ¬Å"not applicableâ⬠for quarter on which company reportedà a loss. Investor buying a company with negative P/E should be aware that they are buying a share of a company that has been losing money per share of itââ¬â¢s stock. For now it is hard to recommend buy of stock unless it is better to hold itââ¬â¢s stock for some time because gulahmed past performance had been better on scale. What is Companyââ¬â¢s secret? Gul-ahmed has always work on bringing innovation to the product development because they know the importace of being tech-savy and innovative from decades they have been working with the latest technology of that era. The installation of first full automatic wider width Air jet looms, 21 color rotatory printing machines and a modern laboratory in entering into 21st century, Another world-class idea came to our mind and retail outlet Ideas open in every part of the country. They have always been working on their U.S.P to make it better than others and it had paid off. At present they are working on high tech saving machines which is fully computerized and functions task of more than 20 men and this machine is only owned by GATM in Pakistan, this played major part in crossing gigantic mark of 25 billion rupee in 2011 which is by far the best output by any textile industry in Pakistan. Being tech-savy is the spirit implies two opposing forces of providing fast and flexible response to c ustomers, yet building efficient mechanisms and systems that are efficient and waste-free. The concept is to provide the right product and information, at the right time, in the right amount, in the right manner, while maintaining high standards of efficiency and cost control. IMC practices this contradictory idea in our daily activities to control their capital locked in inventory and to maintain a healthy customer relationship. Q7: Is it a growing/declining industry? It is a growing industy because if you see their progress from when they start they have reached the top of textile industry and serving itââ¬â¢s customer from more than last 50 years, they have always come up with new technology and innovative ideas. One of the current creative idea is, a 136.17 MW private power plant at Korangi Industrial Area of Karachi. Theà project is a joint venture of Gul Ahmed Group, Toyoda Tsusho Corporation of Japan, International Finance Corporation (IFC) and Wartsila Diesel Oy of Finland. Gul Ahmed Energy Limited is backed by ââ¬Å"GUL AHMED GROUPâ⬠which is one of Pakistanââ¬â¢s leading industrialist / business group since 1948 with a much diversified portfolio of trade, manufacturing, banking, industries, businesses and investments. Business ventures range from Finance, Energy, Beverages, Real Estate, Information Technology and Textile (the Groupââ¬â¢s main forte) The Group is involved in the manufacturing of cotton yarns, grey and fini shed cloth and textile made ups and is one of the leading exporters of textile products from Pakistan Some of the companies forming part of the Group are provided below: Interpretation: Earnings per share is that amount you earn on every single ratio gulahmed is order to grab them and organization like gulahmed tries to maintain their goodwill with investor rather than giving them extra incentives and in 2012 they are negative, which is imposible for EPS because no one can pay negative value. CONCLUSION & FINDINGS: We as a Bank have walked upon a decision that we should gave the loan to Gul-ahmed after studying their financial statements they are a very growing organization. If we see their present condition in 2012, they are in loss but this was due to one bad decision by Director of GAMT which was made to amazed the world once again after 2011 gigantic mark sales in 2012 but it did not paid off. Financial ratios shows a slight change except R.O.E, E.P.S and P/E Ratios which are negative in 2012 as GAMT was in loss in present year. Before that E.P.S was growing and in 2011 it was 9.42 which is a very healthy earning per share.
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