Investment Law - Money Laundering and Terrorist Finance Essay

Investment Law - Money Laundering and Terrorist Finance - Essay Example 50)2. We can therefore describe money laundering as a process whereby the proceeds from activities of crime are covered to conceal their source or origin which is illicit. Money laundering may entail three distinct reas alternative actus (Graham, 2007, p. 51)3. These includes the: one, the transfer or conversion of property bearing in mind that such property or asset a criminal proceeds, two, the concealment or disguise of the source, nature, disposition, location, rights ownership or the movement with regards to the property bearing in mind that such property is a criminal proceeds and three, the property possession, the acquisition or use having in mind that the reception time that the property is of criminal proceeds (Graham, 2007, p. 51)4. On the other hand, financial terrorism involves collection, provision or solicitation of funds with an objective that the funds may be utilized to enhance terrorist organizations or acts. These funds may come from either illicit or legal sources. To define more precisely, a person is said to commit of terrorist financing if the person by any way indirectly or directly, willfully or unlawfully collects or provides funds with the aim that the money or the funds be used or the person has the knowledge that the money will be used in part or full support of a criminal offense with the convectional offense (Graham, 2007, p. 51)1. The major objective of an entities or individual engaging in terrorist financing is thus not necessarily hide the money but both nature and financing of the activity of financing (Graham, 2007, p. 51)2. The risk that may be associated with money laundering is that, it damages financial sectors which the key institutions for economic growth of a country. Money laundering and financial terrorism reduces the productivity with a country since most of resources are diverted to criminal activities encouraging practices of corruption (Graham, 2007, p.

Microcavitation in Ultrasound Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Microcavitation in Ultrasound - Essay Example 3). Two effects are produced by ultrasound upon biologic tissues, thermal changes and microcavitation (par. 3). The development of minute bubbles in the tissues due to application of ultrasound is called microcavitation (par. 3). In diagnostic procedure, the sound waves emitted by the machine penetrates the tissues in the body and reflected back to the machine that forms an image that can be viewed on the screen (Roberts, par. 2). The body imaging procedure that uses ultrasound in diagnosis is called ultrasonography (Wedro 2). Ultrasound is utilized in fetal imaging and other bedside procedures (e.g. assessment of abdominal pain) (2). It is used in diagnosis, screening and therapeutic purposes (1). Ultrasound has been particularly useful in obstetrics. Despite the bubbles produced during the procedure, there has been no confirmed study that microcavitation has negative impact upon insonated fetal cells; the manner of releasing the ultrasound can minimize adverse effect though (Predan ic, Chervenak, and Reece 117-18).

Nissans external environment

Nissans external environment Natural Environment Nissans â€Å"ultimate goal† Nissans is one of the top producers of automobile company which they used up many environmental resources because cars basically run on fossil fuel and gasoline. As a global manufacturer of automobile, Nissan have set an ultimate goal which is to manage the environmental impact generated by (Nissan Global)Nissans corporate activities, customer use of Nissan vehicles, and the companys use of resources on a level that is within natures capacity to absorb. Nissans aim is also to minimize the impact of earth from (Nissan, 2009) Key Issues of Nissan Nissan now focuses on the 3 Key issues which are:- To reduce the Carbon Dioxide emission, To reduce other emission to preserve earth resources including the atmosphere, soil and water To promote the resources cycle through 3rs, Reduction, Reuse Recycle. Task 1. Reducing carbon dioxide emissions Nissan believe that reducing the CO2 emission requires not only by Nissan alone but also a cooperative efforts by all society. Nissan is also making aggressive efforts in reducing the Carbon Monoxide emission in their business activities and thus, their effort will lead to contribution of the society. Task 2. Reducing emissions*1 (protecting the air, water and soil) Nissans 2nd task is to reduce any emission that will have negative impact on earth resources including the atmosphere, air, water and soil. According to Nissan, it is a requirement for them to consider the life cycle of their vehicle from the vehicles development to production and finally to the vehicles disposal. Task 3. Resource recycling (promoting reducing, reusing, and recycling) Nissans aim is to achieve the mobile society through automobile recycling. According to Nissan basic approach, they are implementing the 3 Rs to use their resource effective and efficiently. The 3 Rs are:- Reduce Reuse Recycle They are planning to reduce the material to its minimal when producing their automobile, reuse the resources whenever possible and recycle their resources for the future use. Technology Environment Nissan has four areas of technological goals which include the environment, safety, dynamic performance and life on board. Nissan create these values in order to provide their customers with trusted driving pleasure. (Nissan Global) Environment Nissan has a long term goal to reducing CO2 help the environmental crisis such as global warming. With this goal, Nissan had set their target of reducing CO2 emission in their new car by 70% in the year 2050. (Nissan Environmental Technologies) Safety Nissan claims that their aim is to reduce the number of serious and fatal injuries from accidents involving Nissans vehicle by halve by the year 2015. Nissan has work hard to progressively design a safer vehicle to the customer based on real world accident analysis. Nissan carried out various crash test from normal driving accident to serious and fatal accidents to be analyzed and to provide continuous improvements onto Nissans vehicle. (Nissan Safety Technologies) Dynamic Performance Nissan focuses on qualities such as quietness of the vehicle and the power response. The vehicle handling however such as steering stability, steering responsiveness and vehicle behavior are very important to please the driver of Nissans vehicle according to Nissan. (Nissan Dynamic Performance) Life on Board Nissan vehicle provides an unprecedented value through their every stage from getting into vehicle, preparation to drive, actual driving experience and to getting out from the vehicle. Nissan is also delivering the three kinds of value on the driving experience on Nissan vehicle. (Nissan Life on Board) Cockpit which are design for easy driving Cabin comfort High quality of the interior Sociocultural Environment Nissan is building and manufacturing cars to meet all types of peoples demand. Different people would prefer different types of cars depending on the consumer itself. Assume that if a person prefer vehicle that can go off-road, he could have prefered Nissan Xterra or Nissan Frontier whereas people who are rich and like fast cars would go for cars like Nissan Silvia, Nissan Skyline or Nissan Fairlady 350z. Not all types of driver are suited for all types of cars. This is the reason why Nissan Build many different types of vehicle to suit different types of driver. Below are the some of the lists of different category of Nissan vehicle that are still on production today. Nissan for the adrenaline and want-to-go-fast guys: Nissan Skyline GT-R 35 Nissan 370z Nissan for the adventurous and explorer: Nissan X-trail Nissan Navara Nissan Frontier Nissan for the budget driver: Nissan Latio Nissan Sentra Nissan March International Environment Nissan Company succeeded in selling their automobiles internationally in every continent. This means that Nissan is an international company. Although its availability all around the world, Nissan has to compete on a global basis because there are many high-quality and low price automobiles from all around the world including Toyota, Ford, Mitsubishi and many other more. The international environment provides new competitors, customers and suppliers from everywhere. Although is a good thing Nissan expands their business internationally, this will make the company even harder to control as there are many branches everywhere in the world where Nissan has to retain the standards of every Nissan branches in terms of their services. Nissan would also have to make their automobile available to every place with Nissan branch where they either ship their automobile internationally or the automobile is manufactured locally. Economic Environment Nissan and Renault established as the Renault-Nissan Purchasing Organization (RNPO) in the year 2001. This was key ways to reduce cost by combining both their resources to be more efficient in the organization. Renault and Nissan currently hold 60% shares some part and raw materials suppliers. (Agrawal, 2007) Legal and Political Environment Nissan vehicle have to meet certain standards to be able to enter certain countries to be sold. This is due to the fact that certain states do not allow high performance vehicle such as Nissan Skyline models to enter the state because driver might misuse the vehicle for illegal street racing. Besides high performance automobile, Nissan also needs to meet the Emission Standards whereby it is a requirement that set a specific limit of the pollution produce by an automobile that are released to the environment. These standards are to protect the environment of any air pollution to the country as this may lead to global warming. Emissions that are being tested include carbon monoxide, hydrocarbon, sulfur oxide and others. Aside from that also, there is also safety standards that should be tested before the vehicle is legally produce to the market. In other words, the vehicle should be safe enough for the driver in meeting the safety standards. The safety standards include: Crash Avoidance Control whereby in an event of emergencies, can the vehicle respond when the driver avoids a crash. Crashworthiness is when the vehicle crashes, the vehicle should be safe enough to protect the driver and its passengers. This test will determine the airbag responsiveness, impacts, safety belts and others. (TRANSPORTATION, 1999)

Interpersonal Communication Demonstrated in the Movie, One Flew Over Th

Interpersonal Communication Demonstrated in the Movie, One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest Communication is an essential part of our lives. It is through the process of communication that we are able to make contact, and thus develop who we are in relationship to others. Interpersonal communication is a specific type of communication in which the people involved are contacting each other as persons, and through an ongoing process, defining who they are for each other. In the following pages, I will explain six concepts related to the study of interpersonal communication. Following each explanation, I will give examples of how each concept is demonstrated in the movie, "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest". In doing so, I hope to show that the concepts introduced in interpersonal communication can be applied to our everyday lives. Personal versus Impersonal Communication Each day we engage in various types of communication. Strange as it may sound, each time we speak with someone, we are not necessarily engaging them as a person. Sometimes, we just want to cash a check at the bank or pay for our groceries without creating anything deeper. Other times, we might want to discuss our feelings with a friend or introduce ourselves to someone new. Whatever the case may be, the type of communication that we engage in will be more personal at times, and more impersonal at other times. One way to envision this, is to imagine the communication events of our day lying somewhere on the impersonal--------------- interpersonal continuum. There are five characteristics that distinguish the personal from the impersonal: uniqueness, measurability, choice, reflectiveness, and addressability. Uniquen... ...nherently good or bad, but each serves its purpose depending on the context in which it occurs. Communication involves cues that can be best understood as parts of a continuum. This continuum ranges from cues that are primarily verbal (words), to mixed(pitch, tone of voice), to primarily nonverbal (facial expression, gestures, appearance). In any given communication situation, all of these ques work together in the process of negotiating selves. This process involves constructing and responding to definitions of ourselves and definitions of the people we are communicating with. Contact and communication is what makes us human. The quality of our communication is directly related to the quality of our lives, both physiologically and spiritually. For this reason, learning effective communication skills should be important to all of us.

Cause and Effect Technology

11/10/11 Cause and effect Todays technology has good and bad effects but distraction is, in my opinion the major result. Todays’ technology has its good effects and bad effects on society. But distraction is a really bad effect on society. Yes, technology is good, better communication between people and major advancements. But little things such as cellphones, gps and much are major distractions on an everyday life. These distractions could happen while you’re in school, at your job and even when you are driving. In school, in my high school experience at least 99% of the students have cellphones.I always saw them text-messaging non-stop without paying a bit of attention to the class that was going on. Most of the time I was one of them, and I regret it because most of the time I didn’t pay attention to what the teacher was saying. Cellphones are not the only distraction computers are as well. I used to see a lot of students fight for a computer at school just so they could go on their favorite social networking site, all these distractions due to technology. Technology is also a huge distraction in the work place.I haven’t had a lot of experiences in a workplace environment but I’ve seen a lot of misfortunes just because of a cellphone. My friend recently got fired from his job because he couldn’t leave his phone a lone, his boss was right you either do the job or keep texting outside of the workplace. Last but not least, distractions while you are driving. This is the most common one and the most dangerous one. A lot of people love texting while on the road they rather answer a text message rather than worrying about their own life or even worse, other human beings life. Not only cellphones influence people while driving, GPS as well.People start laying with their GPS while driving without noticing what is in front of them, I’ve seen a couple of accidents that happened because of someone using a GPS. Also music and music players distract you a lot, this has happened to me a couple of times. People get so into songs that they start daydreaming and don’t realize they are indeed driving. Is really dangerous specially when someone has their earphones in while driving because they are locked to the music. Technology affects everyone, not only teenagers or young adults. Technology is a huge distraction and could be dangerous to society in a way or another.

Development of Greek Architecture

Same for Doric Style Visual Comparison -List the differences, similarities -Were the circumstances vastly different during the time periods of each (war, peace, etc. )? Conclusion Development of Greek Architecture: The Doric and Ionic Orders Undoubtedly, most eople have had the experience of driving around neighborhoods to look at Christmas lights with their family. We have all seen those humongous, beautiful houses or churches with the winding driveway, tall windows, or columns framing the face of the house.However, very few people may stop to actually examine the homes and wonder about why they were made the way that they were. People may not know of the architectural structures from hundreds of thousands of years ago that are influencing those modern buildings. Columns, for example, are remnants of an era that changed the way that many cultures build structures; the height of Ancient Greece. The Doric and Ionic orders arose during that time and remain a staple in structural design . I will explain the two orders as well as compare them using two different, specific temples.I will also give background information on the architects of each temple, on new ideas that sprung up during this time, and on events that could have influenced the development of structure in Greece and surrounding areas. During the Orientalizing Period in the seventh century, the Greeks built a temple at Prinias that resembled the Mycenaean megaron which travelers may have seen uring a Journey for trade. However, in sixth century BCE, known as the Archaic Period, Greek architects began to look to Egyptian structures such as the columnar halls in Karnak.With these in mind, they began to build the stone columnar temples that have become the iconic Greek style and have influenced architecture throughout the Western world. The basic Greek peristyle temple was put under the intense study of architects and philosophers who were trying the find a way to construct the ‘perfect temple'. Vitr uvius, a Greek writer, documented that both doric and ionic types eveloped while architects were trying to translate the styles of temples that were made of wood, mud bricks, and other less durable materials into stone and marble temples.These would undoubtedly last longer and if they could discover the optimal proportions, they could potentially build their ideal or ‘perfect' temple. People started searching for a mathematical formula that could be used to calculate the correct balance for all parts of the temple, which reflected the thinking of philosopher Pythagoras of Samos. He believed that that beauty resided in the harmony of ratios, so a Greek architect named Iktinos came up with a set roportional scheme that resulted in a formula for the best balanced temple.Within the bounds of this formulaic approach, there developed two systems, or orders of designing the three parts of ‘elevation' in a Greek temple. The three parts are the platform (stylobate), the colonnade , and the superstructure (entablature). The Doric order and the Ionic order differ in the detail and proportions of these parts. Their names are derived from the cultures and areas from which they supposedly originated (Dorians in central and southern Greece and Ionians in Athens and ‘Ionia', the west coast and Asia Minor).Both systems had the basic elements of a Greek temple (elevation from a platform, columns with a fluted shaft and a capital, entablatures with a frieze, a pediment, so on and so forth). The striking differences occurred in the designs ot these elements The Doric order was the tirst to develop during the 6th century. It had a much sturdier, squat look than the later ionic styles. The columns were thick, immense stone cuts that sat atop the stylobate. The fluted shafts were topped with a pancake-looking, simple capital that had a rectangular slab (abacus) between it and the bottom of the entablature.Resting on the columns is the entablature which includes an a rchitrave (closest to the columns), a frieze, a cornice, a pediment, and a raking cornice. (All of these describe the order of the temple from bottom to top). A distinctive feature of the doric order is that the frieze is broken up vertically by triglyphs and metopes. The plain, flat capital also marks a difference between the doric system and other styles. An example of a classic Doric order temple would be the Temple of Hera I which is located in Paestum, Italy (see Image #1).It was constructed around 550 BCE and is 80 feet tall and 170 feet wide. Also referred to as the ‘Basilica', its thick columns (nine across the front and back and eighteen down both sides) are closely spaced and resemble the shape of a cigar because they taper in slightly at the top. They are topped with the flat, circular capitals. Although almost the entire collection of columns remains, the majority of the entablature is no longer there. The Ionic order developed a little after the Doric Order, in th e a different area.The system began with the same basic structure of temple, including a platform or stylobate, columns (which occasionally had a base hat stood out from the shaft), a capital, and an entablature with an architrave, frieze, cornice, and pediment. However, the columns are slightly farther apart from each other and they are also more slender than the doric style. A good way to imagine an ionic temple is of it having ‘lost weight'. They are not significantly taller, but may appear so because thinner columns and spacing. The capital is made of two volutes and resembles the curling ends of a scroll.Some other distinct aspects of the Ionic system are that the frieze is left open and undivided, and also that the architrave is generally subdivided into three bands. As I previously mentioned, ionic temples also had columns with a base that was distinguishable from the fluted shaft. The Temple of Athena Sounias, located at Cape Sounia, still stands with a full entablatur e (see Image #3). You can see the volutes on the capitals of the slender columns. However, the frieze is divided up by triglyphs and metopes, and you can also see the smooth architrave.Both of these reflect the elements of the original doric craftsmanship, so this piece of architecture cannot be considered exclusively ionic, as it has some doric influence. This temple was built in the middle of the 5th century, which would xplain the dualism in the style of attributes on the temple. A more modern, but basically accurate example of the Ionic style would be the University of Oslo in Norway (see image #4). The frontal steps lead up to a colonnaded porch, with columns reaching from their bases to their scroll-like capitals. The architrave is banded, but the frieze is completely smooth and open.The pediment is also filled with figures all positioned so that they fit into triangle shape but still maintain proper proportions, which was used in previous eras. The temples themselves had vari ous internal structures which varied depending n the architect, the region, or the purpose of the building. Some temples had columns that only went across the front (prostyle) while some had them across the front and back (amphiprostyle). Temples like the Temple of Athena Sounias and the Temple ot Hera I are reterred to as ‘peristyle' because they nave columns all the way around the cella (inner sacred room) and the porch area.However, all of the distinctive qualities of both the Doric order and Ionic order are mainly centered in features at the front of the temples, as well as their columns. The Greek architects' insistence on proportional harmony was the driving force ehind many styles between the sixth and fourth centuries. The closest that they ever came to achieving a ‘perfect temple' was the Parthenon, built on the Acropolis of Athens in the mid-flfth century BCE (see Image #5).

Women in moviess essays

Women in moviess essays Women in Movies Since the 1940s, movies have predominately portrayed women as sex symbols. Beginning in the 1940s and continuing though the 1980s, women did not have major roles in movies. When they did have a leading role the women was either pretreated as unintelligent and beautiful, or as conniving and beautiful: But she was always beautiful. Before the 1990s, men alone, wrote and directed all the movies, and the movies were written for men. In comparison, movies of the 90s are not only written and directed by women, but leading roles are also held by older and unattractive women. In this paper I will show the variations and growth of womens roles in movies from the 1940s though the 1990s. In the 1940s women did not have predominate roles in movies. In the few movies that were based around women, the womans character was written by a man, and the woman was portrayed as a sex symbol. In the movie Double Indemnity, a woman named Phillis is plotting to have her husband killed because she wants to collect his life insurance and be freed from an unhappy marriage. She uses her sexuality and good looks to convince Walter Neff to help her in her scheme. In this movie, Phillis is a beautiful, sexy, conniving killer. In the end, however, because she does not have the heart to kill her husband, the audience is supposed to redeem her conniving image. In the 1940s movie Gilda, the women has two different stereotypes. The first stereotype is a beautiful sex goddess. She is so beautiful that any man would love to be with her. The second stereotype parterres her as a scorned women. After a past relationship with a man named Johnny has left her angry, she reacts by trying to make him jealous by having affairs with other men. Through out the movie Gilda marries Johnny s boss and then cheats on him a few times. Even though Gilda does all of this by the end of the movie Johnny fo...

Snowy Owl Facts

Snowy Owl Facts Snowy owls (Bubo scandiacus) are the heaviest owls in the United States. They are notable for their striking white plumage and their extreme northerly range which includes tundra habitat throughout Alaska, Canada, and Eurasia. While they are relatively rare, they are often spotted in winter when they hunt in windswept fields or dunes. Fast Facts: Snowy Owl Scientific Name: Bubo scandiacusCommon Names: Arctic owls, great white owls, white owls, Harfangs, American snowy owls, snowy owls, ghost owls, tundra ghosts, ookpiks, ermine owls, Scandinavian nightbirds, and highland tundra owlsBasic Animal Group:  BirdSize: Body: 20 to 28 inches; wingspan: 4.2 to 4.8 feetWeight: 3.5–6.5 poundsLifespan: 10 yearsDiet:  CarnivoreHabitat:  Northern United States, parts of Canada; migration takes them to parts of Europe and AsiaPopulation:  200,000Conservation  Status:  Vulnerable   Description The plumage of an adult male snowy owl is mostly white with few dark markings. Females and young owls have a sprinkling of darker feathers that form spots or bars over their wings, breast, upper parts and the back of their head. This speckling offers superb camouflage and enables juveniles and females to blend well with the summertime colors and textures of the tundras vegetation. During the nesting season, females are often are heavily soiled on their underside from sitting on the nest. Snowy owls have bright yellow eyes and a black bill. Vicki Jauron, Babylon and Beyond Photography / Getty Images Habitat and Distribution Snowy owls range from the western Aleutians in Alaska to northeastern Manitoba, northern Quebec, Labrador, and the northern United States. They are primarily tundra birds although they sometimes also inhabit grasslands. They venture into forests only on very rare occasions, if ever. During the winter, snowy owls often move southward. During their migration, they are sometimes seen along coastlines and lake shores. They sometimes stop at airports, possibly because they offer them the wide-open habitat they prefer. During the breeding season, which snowy owls spend in the Arctic, they nest on small rises in the tundra where the female carves out a scrape or shallow depression in the ground in which to lay her eggs. Snowy owls rely on prey populations that fluctuate significantly over time. As a result, snowy owls are nomadic birds and go wherever there are ample food resources at any particular time. During normal years, snowy owls remain in the northernmost parts of Alaska, Canada, and Eurasia. But in seasons when prey is not abundant in the northern stretches of their range, snowy owls move further southward. Occasionally, snowy owls move to regions that are farther south than their normal range. For example, during the years of 1945 through 1946, snow owls made a widespread, coast-to-coast incursion into the southern stretches of Canada and the northern parts of the United States. Then in 1966 and 1967, snowy owls moved deeply into the Pacific Northwest region. These incursions have coincided with cyclic declines in the lemming population. Diet During the breeding season, snowy owls survive on a diet that consists of lemmings and voles. In parts of their range where lemmings and voles are absent, such as the Shetland Islands, snowy owls feed on rabbits or chicks of wading birds. Behavior Unlike most owls, snowy owls are primarily diurnal birds, usually active during the day, from dawn to dusk. Sometimes snowy owls do hunt at night. It is important to remember that within their Arctic range, snowy owls experience long summer days and hunting at night simply isnt an option as there are few or no hours of darkness. The opposite is true in winter when day length shortens and hunting during daylight hours is reduced or eliminated as the sun remains below the horizon for long stretches of time. Outside the breeding season, snowy owls make very few vocalizations. During the breeding season, snowy owls are a bit more vocal. Males make a barking kre or krek-krek call. Females produce a loud whistling or mewling pyee-pyee or prek-prek sound. Snowy owls also produce a low-pitched hoot that carries through the air for long distances and can be heard as much as 10 kilometers away. Other sounds snowy owls make include hissing, bill snapping and a clapping sound believed to be created by clicking the tongue. Reproduction and Offspring Normally, snowy owls lay between five and eight eggs per clutch. But in good years when prey such as lemmings is abundant, they lay as many as 14 eggs per clutch. Female snowy owls lay their 2.2 inch long eggs at two-day intervals so that the young emerge from the egg at different times. Mud-brown hatchlings emerge from their eggs at about the size of a newly-hatched chicken. Hatchlings in the same nest are of differing ages, with some having hatched as much as two weeks apart. Snowy owl chicks weigh only about 45 grams at birth, but they grow rapidly, gaining about three grams each day. They mature over the course of two years, at which point they weigh approximately 4.5 pounds. Javier Piva Flos/Getty Images   Conservation Status There are approximately 200,000 snowy owls in North America. Despite conservation efforts, these unique owls are now considered to be a vulnerable species. While breeding areas are usually far away from human interference, climate change is impacting the snowy owls Arctic habitat; the number of these birds is on the decline. Relatives of the Horned Owl Until recently, snowy owls were the only member of the genus Nyctea but recent molecular studies showed snowy owls to be close relatives of the horned owls. As a result, taxonomists have moved snowy owls to the genus Bubo. Other members of the genus Bubo include the American horned owls and the Old World eagle-owls. Like other horned owls, snowy owls have ear tufts but they are small and usually kept tucked away. Sources â€Å"Basic Facts About Snowy Owls.†Ã‚  Defenders of Wildlife, 10 Jan. 2019, defenders.org/snowy-owl/basic-facts.â€Å"Snowy Owl.†Ã‚  Audubon, 21 Mar. 2019, www.audubon.org/field-guide/bird/snowy-owl.â€Å"Snowy Owl.†Ã‚  National Geographic, 24 Sept. 2018, www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/birds/s/snowy-owl/.

Barack Obama - Fifth Weekly Transition Address

Barack Obama Fifth President-Elect Weekly Transition Address Broadcast 6 December 2008Good morning. Yesterday, we received another painful reminder of the serious economic challenge our country is facing when we learned that 533,000 jobs were lost in November alone, the single worst month of job loss in over three decades. That puts the total number of jobs lost in this recession at nearly two million. But this isn’t about numbers. It’s about each of the families those numbers represent. It’s about the rising unease and frustration that so many of you are feeling during this holiday season. Will you be able to put your kids through college? Will you be able to afford health care? Will you be able to retire with dignity and security? Will your job or your husband’s job or your daughter’s or sons jobs be the next ones cut? These are the questions that keep so many Americans awake at night. But its not the first time these questions have been asked though. Weve faced difficult times before, times when our economic destiny seemed to be slipping out of our hands. And at each moment, we have risen to meet the challenge, as one people united by a sense of common purpose. And I know that Americans can rise to the moment once again. But we need action and action now. Thats why Ive asked my economic team to develop an economic recovery plan for both Wall Street and Main Street that will help save or create at least two and a half million jobs, while rebuilding our infrastructure, improving our schools, reducing our dependence on oil, and saving billions of dollars. We won’t do it the old Washington way. We won’t just throw money at the problem. We’ll measure progress by the reforms we make and the results we achieve by the jobs we create, by the energy we save, by whether America is more competitive in the world. Today, Im announcing a few key parts of my plan. First, we will launch a massive effort to make public buildings more energy-efficient. Our government now pays the highest energy bills in the world. We need to change that. We need to upgrade our federal buildings by replacing old heating systems and installing efficient light bulbs. That won’t just save you, the American taxpayer, billions of dollars each year. It will put people back to work. Second, we will create millions of jobs by making the single largest new investment in our national infrastructure since the creation of the federal highway system in the 1950s. We’ll invest your precious tax dollars in new and smarter ways, and we’ll set a simple rule: Use it or lose it. If a state doesn’t act quickly to invest in roads and bridges in their communities, they’ll lose the money. Third, my economic recovery plan will launch the most sweeping effort to modernize and upgrade school buildings that this country has ever seen. We will repair broken schools, make them energy-efficient, and put new computers in our classrooms. Because to help our children compete in a 21st century economy, we need to send them to 21st century schools. As we renew our schools and highways, we’ll also renew our information superhighway. It is unacceptable that the United States ranks 15th in the world in broadband adoption. Here, in the country that invented the Internet, every child should have the chance to get online, and they’ll get that chance when I’m President because that’s how we’ll strengthen America’s competitiveness in the world. In addition to connecting our libraries and schools to the Internet, we must also ensure that our hospitals are connected to each other through the Internet. That is why the economic recovery plan I’m proposing will help modernize our health care system; and that won’t just save jobs, it will save lives. We will make sure that every doctor’s office and hospital in this country is using cutting edge technology and electronic medical records so that we can cut red tape, prevent medical mistakes, and help save billions of dollars each year. These are just a few parts of the economic recovery plan that I will be rolling out in the coming weeks. When Congress reconvenes in January, I look forward to working with them to pass a plan immediately. We need to act with the urgency this moment demands to save or create at least two and a half million jobs so that the nearly two million Americans who’ve lost them know that they have a future. And that’s exactly what I intend to do as President of the United States. Thanks for listening. Source:Â  https://www.loc.gov/

Describe the architecture of a relational database, including how the Essay

Describe the architecture of a relational database, including how the data is organized. Explain a relational DBMS. What are some of the limitations of a relati - Essay Example Each column has a column name and contains values that are bound by the same type and size. For example, a column in the table S_DEPT specifies the names of the departments in the organization. A Primary key is a column or a combination of columns that is used to uniquely identify each row in a table. For example, the column containing department numbers in the S_DEPT table is created as a primary key and therefore every department number is different. A primary key must contain a value. It cannot contain a NULL value. A Foreign key is a column or set of columns that refers to a primary key in the same table or another table. You use foreign keys to establish principle connections between, or within, tables. A foreign key must either match a primary key or else be NULL. Rows are connected logically when required. The logical connections are based upon conditions that define a relationship between corresponding values, typically between a primary key and a matching foreign key. This relational method of linking provides great flexibility as it is independent of physical links between records. The entities and the relationships between them are represented as a collection of tables.   The process of deciding what the best collection of tables is for a given application is known as data-base modelling.  Ã‚   For the purpose of this document, let the definition of a good model be defined as one which enables a single change to the part of the real world being modelled to be reflected by a single change to the model. As an illustration of the sort of problem that lends itself to solution using an RDBMS consider a bank that wishes to maintain details of its branches, staff, customers and their accounts, including details of cash investment and withdrawal. Relationships are reflected by one table referencing another through the second table’s primary key.   The referencing table has a field (or fields) which correspond to the primary key field(s)

Management of chronic pain control in cancer Essay

Management of chronic pain control in cancer - Essay Example In one year more than 500 people in 100,000 will be diagnosed with cancer within the United Kingdom (Cancer Research UK, 2012). The same site states that the survival rate for all cancers has now reached 50%, with some types having a very high 5 year survival rate of 95% and with women generally having a higher survival rate than men. Treatment will have included such things as surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy, all of which play their part in either removing or destroying cancer cells. Such treatment though has its costs and it is a normal experience to have some pain after cancer surgery. Most of this will fade after time, but in some cases pain can persist for months or years, especially if nerves are damaged. After radiation therapy there may be pain which eventually resolves. In some cases though pain can develop a long way down the line. Chemotherapy can also result in pain and numbness. Some people may also find that they are liable to migraines, low back pain and other t ypes of pain ( Cancer.net, 2012). All of these pains require treatment, but often patients are worried about taking large amounts of analgesics, and may not reveal the extent of their problems. Fullen et al( 2006) point within schools of both medicine and nursing the amount of time spent teaching students about pain relief varies considerably, which will contribute to a patchy service when it comes to pain relief, simply because of inadequate training in some areas. This in turn means that more patients suffer to a greater extent than they need do, and also increase time off work and in hospital, at great cost to themselves and to the country’s health service., Chronic pain has been defined as† having pain on a daily basis for more than six months† (Fullen et al, 2006). Cancer is a term used for more than one hundred diseases in which abnormal cells divide uncontrollably and invade surrounding tissues as well as spreading to other parts of the body through such me ans as the lymphatic and circulatory systems. It affects both organs and mechanisms. This multiplicity of possibilities requires very individualised treatment at every stage from diagnosis on through treatment and into survivorship. The Alliance for Cervical Cancer Prevention (2004) describes how a diagnosis can mean a person feels isolated, anxious, angry and depressed. It might well be assumed that once a cure has been achieved all this could be put behind them, but persistent pain is a very real issue in many cases, as could be psychological issues. Some will feel exalted that they have survived such a major threat, but others may continue to see themselves as a victim, especially if there are long term physical differences, as for example if there is the need for a permanent colostomy, or a man becomes impotent. Within the United Kingdom in 2012 it was declared that treatment for cancer is becoming ever more successful (Department of Health, 2012). The cure is not always the fin al end of pain however. The patient and his family have had to deal with the shock of diagnosis, the progress of the disease and then the joy of the

Effects of Temperature on Potato Catalase Activity Essay

Effects of Temperature on Potato Catalase Activity - Essay Example In most cases, the catalase enzyme reacts with the hydrogen peroxide thus converting it into water and oxygen. To determine the effects of temperature on potato catalase, an experiment was done. To begin with, the potato was grated using a nutmeg grater while making sure that the grated surface frequently is exposed to the calcium carbonate. Thereafter, grinding of the pulp in a mortar, which had some quartz sand for about two minutes, was done. The pulp extract was placed in between an absorbent cotton and cheesecloth to get rid of the water. Thereafter, it was placed in a glass bottle with cold water. This was followed by placing it in a water bath at 200C. Five cubic centimeters of Oakland together with a three percent hydrogen peroxide was added immediately the mixture attained the water bath temperature. Shaking should continue to make sure the effect covers the whole mixture. In most experiments the catalase enzyme is destroyed at temperatures ranging between 660 C and 780 C. however, in a situation involving a potato catalase enzyme, destruction begins at 500 C. There is a correlation in the VANT HOFF velocity coefficient for hemase (Bunzell & Kenyon, 1933). It reads 1.5 in the potato catalase between 0 and 100 C. temperatures above 200 C already start to destroy the catalase enzyme, which in conjunction with the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide makes it difficult to keep the enzymes alive. This is because of the real and total destruction that happens to the catalase enzyme. Hydrogen impurities do not hinder its destruction even under medium temperatures. In the experiment, it is very clear that temperature is the independent variable while both the potato and hydrogen peroxide are the dependant variables. They are dependent on temperature of which has to take place in the glass bottle or a test tube in that matter. The amount of hydrogen peroxide,

UK business school Research Proposal Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

UK business school - Research Proposal Example The availability of resources that are pre-requisite for the setting up of a business institution; the most important factor being the availability and the quality of the instructors that are present to teach at these institutions. The most critical factor amongst many for the business institutions is the great emphasis on quality. Most organizations are dwindled in their quest for excellence in the face of increasing consumer base which leads to greater revenues; therefore, to be focused on the emphasis on quality is certainly a great factor contributing to the success of these institutions as they have been able to successfully prevent applying trade-offs that are detrimental to the level of quality of the institution, which has in turn helped them maintain a level of quality; favorable effects of which have been experienced throughout the institution. Other success factors are favorable external conditions such helpful government policies, peaceful communal conditions etc; all of which conspire together to provide a supportive base for these institutions. ... the face of increasing consumer base which leads to greater revenues; therefore, to be focused on the emphasis on quality is certainly a great factor contributing to the success of these institutions as they have been able to successfully prevent applying trade-offs that are detrimental to the level of quality of the institution, which has in turn helped them maintain a level of quality; favorable effects of which have been experienced throughout the institution. Other success factors are favorable external conditions such helpful government policies, peaceful communal conditions etc; all of which conspire together to provide a supportive base for these institutions. (RAPIDBI, 2008) These success factors are likely to remain in the future as the emphasis on quality is an ingredient of success which is not contingent upon time; it remains a critical success factor at any point in time. In addition, the conditions in the UK can be expected to remain stable in the future so we can expec t no new occurrence of negative externalities to arise in the future. The Norwich Business School certainly holds a significant position in the industry of UK business institutions and that is largely due to rich educational experience that is promulgated by the institutions and the wide range of degrees that offered that in this business institution. With 600 undergraduate students and 180 post graduate students and operating in the Social Sciences market place, one can see that The Norwich Business School is certainly a big player in its specific market and, hence, it must be given due credit as being a major player with regards to the current market place. In addition, the future outlook of the organization looks fine as the university is multi-disciplinary and also has a School of

Hispanis Americans and the United States Research Paper

Hispanis Americans and the United States - Research Paper Example However, apart from that parameter they share considerable differences among themselves to be identified as separate groups with regards to the different countries to which they belong to. Political Issues of the Hispanic Groups Mexicans The Mexican Americans distinguish themselves from the larger American race owing to separate immigration and labor policies held in America. Further, the implementation of treaties like North Atlantic Free Trade Agreement also makes their positions easily distinguishable. Moreover, the constitutional rights of the Mexican Americans are also infringed through the construction of separate schools for Mexican children which are mostly poorly funded. Mexican Americans are increasingly taking resort to political activities to gather voice for protesting on social issues though on temporal basis (Schaefer, 2006, pp.242, 246, 265). Cubans The Cuban population in United States of America reflects a much better position than other Hispanic groups. These group s of people turn out to be the fortunate ones to be able to complete their education till the college level. These immigrants unlike other Hispanics like Mexicans have formed their own political party to raise their voices against America’s policy in bettering relations with Cuba. However, Cubans like Mexicans adore the Spanish language which relates them to the Hispanic groups (Schaefer, 2006, p.250). ... Moreover these Hispanic groups unlike Hispanic races like Mexicans gained the opportunity for making mass scale immigration to United States. Common to the Mexican population is the high level of illegal immigrants occupied the American region (Schaefer, 2006, p.251-252). Puerto Ricans Puerto Ricans unlike other Hispanic groups have self political identities where they can elect their own governors and constitute a separate homeland distinct from the United States. Henceforth, this Hispanic group enjoys the power of citizenship in America. The Puerto Rico immigrants are highly scrutinized on matters of other Hispanics entering as Puerto Ricans to enjoy constitutional rights. Puerto Ricans share a commonality with other Hispanic groups in using Spanish language as their own distinct language in America (Schaefer, 2006.pp.268-270). Action of Political Parties on increase Hispanic presence The growth of Hispanic population in the United States has led to their increased political presen ce. Moreover, the policies of the American government have also supported the growth of the Hispanic voters. The ballot system has been made bilingual to help the Hispanic population cast their votes. However, the above activities failed to have a considerable impact on the voting rights of the Hispanic groups for a maximum of them were found ineligible for being non-citizens. The Democrats in United States are taking a fresher look to draw in more Hispanic votes in their constituencies (Schaefer, 2006, p. 245; Marger, 2008). Social and Economic Issues of the Hispanic Groups Mexicans The Mexican Americans in United Kingdom have varied economic positions. Some have access to potential land resources while a majority turned out to become poor farmers who are regarded by Americans as

Assignment scenario Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 1

Assignment scenario - Essay Example While the nurse has factual justification for the enforcement of her recommendation, is it possible that her apparent commitment to the health and welfare of the patient cannot be achieved by the disregard of her wishes? DEONTOLOGY One might argue that to care for the body in a way that yields emotional distress is self-defeating; What then, are the rules by which we can standardize the 'goodness' of an action or philosophy? Deontological ethics (deontology) is an obligation-centric ethical theory. Duty and rule-adherence are essential in that ethics, when anchored by rules and obligation connect the person with his or her duties. Deontologists may also follow a belief of moral absolutism, outcomes themselves become irrelevant; only duty, rule-adherence that can give us a basis for final moral arbitration. Combining these views, actions yielding positive outcomes but not resulting from strict adherence to a pre-existing code of conduct cannot be morally justifiable - regardless of ho w good it seems in retrospect. Ergo, if compelling the compression bandages is following a pre-ordained obligatory behavioral code, then the outcome of preventing swelling and sores is irrelevant, as is the outcome of the widow's displeasure. So long as the Nurse acts according to a protocol. The case of Ruth Symonds as pertaining to the implementation of Modern Medical Ethics. TELEOLOGY By contrast, Teleological beliefs and philosophies are outcome-based, or outcome justified. This principle can extend not only to philosophies as they inform decision making, but the natural sciences as well. Hanke, (2004) A tiger has stripes because stripes are needed for a tiger to live and hunt in the way that tigers live and hunt; therefore striped tigers are inevitable. But this does not inform the investigator as to the ultimate origins of behaviors or adaptations, and thus would not permit future investigators to extrapolate that observation into further predictions. It would then become nece ssary to devise an explanation whereby the root causes of the tigers' need for stripes and the consequences thereof are elucidated in terms of differential survival outcomes; before said stripes ever appeared. In the writings of Aristotle, the premise of teleology is expounded upon as a unifying meta-principle that he uses to apply holistic meaning to the forms seen within nature. All that exists must be whole and functional within the purvey of ultimate purpose; a purpose which he held to be human benefit. Schindler, (1986) But subsequent generations of scientific thinkers would be able to demonstrate the incompleteness of that presumption. While it is true that wheat may be very beneficial for human consumption, and that oxen may be advantageous as a source of cheap, brute force for human-guided industry, what of disease? The Smallpox virus is perfectly adapted to infect and proliferate amongst humans, and can only survive inside of a human being; does humankind exist solely for t he benefit of the Smallpox virus? Broader considerations like this must be kept in mind for anyone that adopts a presumptuous, just-so opportunistic teleology. It is difficult to entirely purge this kind of circularity from the field of biology, but attempts are being made by some biologists to remove assumptive references to a 'blind watchmaker', that presupposes final

Hispanis Americans and the United States Research Paper

Hispanis Americans and the United States - Research Paper Example However, apart from that parameter they share considerable differences among themselves to be identified as separate groups with regards to the different countries to which they belong to. Political Issues of the Hispanic Groups Mexicans The Mexican Americans distinguish themselves from the larger American race owing to separate immigration and labor policies held in America. Further, the implementation of treaties like North Atlantic Free Trade Agreement also makes their positions easily distinguishable. Moreover, the constitutional rights of the Mexican Americans are also infringed through the construction of separate schools for Mexican children which are mostly poorly funded. Mexican Americans are increasingly taking resort to political activities to gather voice for protesting on social issues though on temporal basis (Schaefer, 2006, pp.242, 246, 265). Cubans The Cuban population in United States of America reflects a much better position than other Hispanic groups. These group s of people turn out to be the fortunate ones to be able to complete their education till the college level. These immigrants unlike other Hispanics like Mexicans have formed their own political party to raise their voices against America’s policy in bettering relations with Cuba. However, Cubans like Mexicans adore the Spanish language which relates them to the Hispanic groups (Schaefer, 2006, p.250). ... Moreover these Hispanic groups unlike Hispanic races like Mexicans gained the opportunity for making mass scale immigration to United States. Common to the Mexican population is the high level of illegal immigrants occupied the American region (Schaefer, 2006, p.251-252). Puerto Ricans Puerto Ricans unlike other Hispanic groups have self political identities where they can elect their own governors and constitute a separate homeland distinct from the United States. Henceforth, this Hispanic group enjoys the power of citizenship in America. The Puerto Rico immigrants are highly scrutinized on matters of other Hispanics entering as Puerto Ricans to enjoy constitutional rights. Puerto Ricans share a commonality with other Hispanic groups in using Spanish language as their own distinct language in America (Schaefer, 2006.pp.268-270). Action of Political Parties on increase Hispanic presence The growth of Hispanic population in the United States has led to their increased political presen ce. Moreover, the policies of the American government have also supported the growth of the Hispanic voters. The ballot system has been made bilingual to help the Hispanic population cast their votes. However, the above activities failed to have a considerable impact on the voting rights of the Hispanic groups for a maximum of them were found ineligible for being non-citizens. The Democrats in United States are taking a fresher look to draw in more Hispanic votes in their constituencies (Schaefer, 2006, p. 245; Marger, 2008). Social and Economic Issues of the Hispanic Groups Mexicans The Mexican Americans in United Kingdom have varied economic positions. Some have access to potential land resources while a majority turned out to become poor farmers who are regarded by Americans as

Marriage and Obedient Christian Head Essay Example for Free

Marriage and Obedient Christian Head Essay For almost 4 years I was married to a beautiful and adulterous woman. In terms of our friends and acquaintances and the public, we were a perfect couple. We held hands when at comedy shows and in malls. We kissed anywhere and everywhere, no matter who was watching or whose paths we crossed. But when night fell on any given evening, my beautiful wife would leave only to return in the wee hours of the morning, just before daylight. What a lovely person she was when we on the town together. I admit that I hung in there for almost two years and was the â€Å"good† husband and obedient Christian â€Å"head†. I ran my companies from home and rarely met clients in person, opting to use Skype for my meetings. When I approached my wife about going to church and seeing a marriage counselor, she balked and I felt abandoned. Too much of that began to make me feel worthless, helpless, and heartbroken. And then came the need to find attention and a woman who would show me appreciation and value; things my wife did not or could not. I began to meet clients out in lounges and at happy hours. Or travel everywhere out of state, or the country to find â€Å"other† women who would welcome this gentleman. I stayed out until daylight many nights. Bedded many women. Travelled on many excursions with strange women. In final, after a sadistically short marriage and nasty divorce, I came to terms with the way I react to pain. Ashamed am I to have turned to my ex-wife’s ways. Ashamed am I to have left my obedience to the Lord. Ashamed am I to have to write about the truth. Though, I know, now, that I would be better if I was ever cheated on again.

Causes of Bankruptcy at Toys R Us

Causes of Bankruptcy at Toys R Us Abstract With declining sales and the rise of online retail, Toys R Us is one of many companies that have filed for bankruptcy. Toys R Us has also pulled its IPO offering. In the world of Amazon and Walmart, Toys R Us was unable to keep up. This paper will provide a comprehensive look at the underlying issues due to which Toys R Us was unable to thrive. With so many options in the market, Toys R Us needs to create a draw for its customers to remain competitive. The company’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats will be analyzed to determine the best course of action supported by research. With research, financial analysis, and dynamic operations, it was concluded that Toys R Us needs to become relevant again and create a business out of what they offer similar to what American Girl has done. Executive Summary Toys R Us was founded by Charles P. Lazarus in 1948 and initially began as a furniture store, which then shifted its focus entirely to toys. The company has 866 stores in the United States and more than 750 international locations. The company’s strength lies in its volume of stores that it operates, many of them in emerging economies that could prove to be an investment. It recently filed for bankruptcy in the United States and Canada. At first glance, the company is suffering from low sales, not enough foot traffic, and toys that do not appeal to children of the digital age. However, at looking closer, the underlying issue seems to be Toys R Us’s reluctance to re-engineer its business. Toys R Us was losing sales due to big retailers like Amazon, Target, and Walmart. Amazon offers the convenience of online shopping with very fast shipping that eliminates the wait time associated with shopping online. Target and Walmart offer one stop shopping that allows an individual to get all of their shopping done without having to make multiple stops. Toys R Us only offers one genre of products, which are toys. When compared to a similar rival within the same industry such as American Girl Doll, it is clear that it is possible to be successful while offering an exclusive product. The appeal of American Girl Doll is that it creates a unique, interactive experience for its customers. One of Toys R Us’ weaknesses is that is does not have a competitive edge. Toys R Us could do the same by providing unique, interactive, experience geared displays for children in their stores similar to that of Build-A-Bear, which is a competitor in the same market. They can also manage a turn around by focusing on lower prices, better customer experience, revamping stores to include the interactive portion, hire engaging employees who cater to children, offer other services such as toy repairs or setup assistance. Toys R Us is a retail company that is exclusively a toy retailer that has 866 stores in the United States and more than 750 international locations. It had consistent success since it was founded in 1948 because it provided the most popular, up to date, and largest variety of toys with the most locations as well (Thomison, 2016). Toys R Us was known as a category killer, which meant that the company sold a product from only one category. With this strategy, the company was able to build a large volume that other retail chains could not match due to Toys R Us’ inventory and price. Then, Walmart launched a price war that was matched by Target and sold more toys than Toys R Us by 2005 (Hartung, 2017). KKR, Bain, and Vornado acquired Toys R Us in 2005 for $6.6 billion. The retailer has $4.9 billion in debt of which $400 million is due in 2018 and $1.7 billion due in 2019. Toys R Us has filed for bankruptcy in the United States and Canada, which will help relieve it from this debt (Hirsch, 2017). This can be attributed to the rise of e-commerce, where people buy online on sites such as Amazon and eBay. Toys R Us did launch its own website in 1998 and it became one of the fastest growing sites in the toy category. As Toys R Us tried to improve its business strategy, so did its competitors. Walmart and Target also sell toys but also offer the convenience of one stop shopping for its customers whereas Toys R Us is unable to do so. In the age of technology, many children prefer I-Pads and I-Phones to traditional toys further dwindling sales of Toys R Us. In 2011, Toys R Us’ domestic U.S. sales were worse than that of 2008, which was one of the worst holiday seasons for retailers. The president of the company resigned after only 10 months despite signing a one-year contract. In 2012, the department heads for administration and merchandising also resigned from their positions. The executives at Toys R Us have been experiencing high turnover within the past seven years (Clifford & Lattman, 2012). The company is grappling with how to grow the business with all of the competition. Sales are dwindling and competition is thriving but what caused these issues to arise for a company that seemed to doing very well? According to Hartung (2017), KKR and Bain Capital acquired Toys R Us in 2005 for $6.6 billion plus $1 billion of debt at a total valuation of $7.6 billion. KKR and Bain Capital put in $1.3 billion and used the company’s assets to raise the remaining amount bringing the debt from $1 billion to $6.2 billion, which was 82.7% of total capital. The interest rate on this debt was around 7.25% that created payments of $450 million per year on interest alone. The plan was to cut company costs, improve cash flow, and pay off the debt. The rise of e-commerce, at the time, was not anticipated. Amazon was only an $8.5 billion company in 2005 as opposed to the $100 billion dollar giant it is today. The executives set the company up for failure right from the acquisition. Due to its debt, Toys R Us was unable to venture into the online market as aggressively as they should have to counter Amazon. The company also could not keep up with Walmart’s low prices. Walmart would take a loss by pricing toys and other popular items at steeply low prices to get customers into their stores so they could spend on other big-ticket items. Customer service and shopping experience at Toys R Us were sub par at best and not inviting to customers. American Girl Doll, which is also an exclusive toy retailer, has seen tremendous, continuous success due to its interactive geared shopping experience for customers. American Girl Doll only sells doll, which one would assume could be its detriment as was with Toys R Us. The same factors that plague Toys R Us are the same factors that American Girl Doll must deal with. American Girl Doll is able to thrive and be profitable because of the unique experience they provide. Each toy comes with a historical background, a story, and accessories, which sell even at their high price point. Bhattarai (2017) states, that smaller neighborhood toy stores are thriving and increasing sales every year while Toys R Us, a retail giant is failing. What sets these smaller stores apart is the customer service of helpful employees, the carefully curated selection, gift-wrapping services, and lego building events. These stores are providing a unique shopping experience that Toys R Us is lacking. Kids these days are restless theyre looking for an interactive experience, said Susan Lee, a partner at marketing firm Simon Kucher & Partners. It isnt enough to just have stacks of toys on a shelf (Bhattarai, 2017). Customer service plays a large part in the success of these smaller stores as well. Bhattarai (2017) lists a variety of different experiences shoppers reiterated at a store called Child’s Play from employees going out of their way to open newly packaged games so children can decide if it is the right one, tracking down obscure toys that some children request, and even taking the time out to play with some of the kids in the store. Toys R Us’ strengths lie in its numbers as the retail giant has so many locations within the U.S. and worldwide. The company also has a large inventory with a diverse range of toys that is difficult to come by in another store. Toys R Us has been around for almost 70 years and for many people creates a sense of nostalgia that can be used to its advantage. It has developed its website and utilize it to further appeal to its customer base. The company currently employs over 70,000 employees and still managed to pull in annual revenue of $13.646 billion (Satell, 2017). The weaknesses of the organization include a lack of competitive advantage when compared to other retailers. The toys sold at Toys R Us stores are not unique and can be found and other retailers and sometimes for a better price. Toys R Us also depends on its holiday season sales to make the most profit and that is not enough anymore to help the company thrive. The organization also wants to pay its executives $16 million in bonuses that they argue are necessary for the executives to perform well. Normally, executive pay is fairly higher compared to the average worker due to the required experience, risk, educational background, work schedule, etc. (Martocchio, 2017). This is not necessary for a bankrupt organization to do especially since these are the same executives that have allowed the company to fail for so long instead of implementing new business strategies. This would be understandable if the organization were trying to bring aboard new executives that have a proven track record of bringing companies back to life after suffering such losses. Opportunities for Toys R Us came in the form of its alliance with Amazon provided both companies the opportunity to excel. It allowed Amazon to partner with other retailers instead of trying to sell everything itself. Toys R Us was able to pick the hot items and have them features and was also responsible for keeping them in physical stock. This deal however did sour due to both companies filing lawsuits against each other. Toys R Us claimed Amazon was allowing other retailers to sell on their website while Amazon claimed this was due to Toys R Us not being able to keep items in stock. The lawsuit has been settled with Amazon agreeing to pay Toys R Us a settlement of $51 million (Martinez, 2009). Toys R Us can learn from this alliance and partner with other companies to further its selling power. Toys R Us also has many international locations that if situated in the right emerging markets can create the opportunity to enhance international revenue. The threats that Toys R Us faces are retail giants like Amazon, Walmart, and Target. Even some of the smaller neighborhood toy stores are doing a better job in providing what customers are looking for. Walmart, Target, and Amazon may offer the same products as Toys R Us but many times offer it in a package exclusive to the retailer that entices customers. Layoffs from multiple store closings have made the company unreliable as well as the current filing of bankruptcy over the debt the company was left with. The company is now in a negative light creating a negative image of the brand as much of its financial woes have been highlighted by the media (Marketing Mixx, 2017). References Bhattarai, A. (2017). Why neighborhood toy stores are thriving while Toys R Us goes bankrupt. The Chicago Tribune. Retrieved from http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/ct-neighborhood-toy-stores-toys-r-us-bankrupt-20170925-story.html Clifford, S. and Lattman, P. (2012). Pressed from all sides, Toys R Us fights to reinvent itself. The New York Times. Retrieved from http://www.nytimes.com/2012/04/07/business/toys-r-us-last-of-the-big-toy-stores-tries-to-reinvent-itself.html Fitz-Enz, J. (2009). The ROI of human capital: Measuring the economic value of employee performance (2nd ed.). New York, NY: AMACOM.          Gay, W. (2017). How Millennials can save Toys R Us from bankruptcy. Forbes. Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com/sites/wesgay/2017/10/30/toys-r-us-bankruptcy/2/#6cf61c604af0 Gross, D. (2017). Toys R Us is dying from a lack of imagination. Slate. Retrieved from https://slate.com/business/2017/09/why-best-buy-is-weathering-the-retail-apocalypse-and-toys-r-us-isnt.html Hartung, A. (2017). Toys R Us – how bad assumptions fed bad financial planning creating failure. Forbes. Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com/sites/adamhartung/2017/09/20/toys-r-us-is-a-lesson-in-how-bad-assumptions-feed-bad-financial-planning-creating-failure/#34186aef58ea Hirsch, L. (2017). Toys R Us files for chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. CNBC. Retrieved from https://www.cnbc.com/2017/09/18/toys-r-us-files-for-chapter-11-bankruptcy.html Isidore, C. (2017). Bankrupt Toys R Us wants to pay $16 million in executive bonuses. CNN Money. Retrieved from http://money.cnn.com/2017/11/16/news/companies/toys-r-us-executive-bonuses/index.htmlY Martinez, A. (2009). Amazon settles long standing legal dispute with Toys R Us. The Seattle Times. Retrieved from https://www.seattletimes.com/business/amazon-settles-long-standing-legal-dispute-with-toys-r-us/ Martocchio, J. (2017).  Strategic compensation: A human resource management approach  (9th  Ed.). Hoboken, NJ: Pearson Education, Inc.   Roth, C. (2013). Toys R Us needs a business model makeover: Roth. CNBC. Retrieved from https://www.cnbc.com/id/100609849 Satell, G. (2017). Toys R Us might be dying, but physical retail isn’t. Harvard Business Review. Retrieved from https://hbr.org/2017/09/toys-r-us-is-dead-but-physical-retail-isnt Silver, J. (2017). Eyeing Toys R Us’ future. NPR. Retrieved from https://www.npr.org/2017/09/19/552181913/eyeing-toys-r-us-future-analyst-suggests-hands-on-displays Thomison, E. (2016). A strategic marketing and financial analysis of Toys R Us. University of Kentucky. Retrieved from https://uknowledge.uky.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?referer=https://www.google.com/&httpsredir=1&article=1022&context=honprog Tuttle, D. (2017). Up next in the retail apocalypse: Toys R Us?. Time Money. Retrieved from http://time.com/money/4931640/toys-r-us-sales-bankruptcy-debt/ Vogelsang, J., Townsend, M, Minahan, M., Jamieson, D., Vogel, J., Viets, A, Royal, C., & Valek, L. (2013). Handbook for strategic HR: Best practices in organization development from the OD Network. New York, NY: AMACOM.

There Should Not Be Any Required Courses In College :: Argumentative Persuasive Argument Essays

There Should Not Be Any Required Courses In College There are many arguments to support the abolishment of core classes in college. One reason is a financial one: a great bulk of tuition money that the students pay to college is for their courses. It is not right to have the college take this money and make the student's decisions for them. The students should have the right to make this decision on their own. This does not only make for unwisely spent funds, but also unhappy students who are therfore not going appreciate a forced class. Secondly, college is where a person goes to discover him/herself. This is one of the many goals of the college system, and that discovery process is hindered by unneeded, mandatory classes. Students should be able to try many different classes to discover what interests them the most, not to be fed knowledge that they very well might know already (and is perhaps of no interest to them). If required courses were eliminated, it would free up much time that students could then use to pursue their own interests. College exists to help people become unique individuals, not to put every person into the same standard mold. Thirdly, college selection systems are designed to admit most students on the basis of what they know already (after all, the purpose of high school is to prepare you for college). If the selection system was actually accurate or efficient, they would have chosen students who already knew the material that was required, thus not needing to take the core classes. This would save funding for the university because they would not have to teach redundant classes that only review what a student knows. For an institution that promotes self discovery and educational freedom, mandatory courses seem to be dogmatically needless. There Should Not Be Any Required Courses In College :: Argumentative Persuasive Argument Essays There Should Not Be Any Required Courses In College There are many arguments to support the abolishment of core classes in college. One reason is a financial one: a great bulk of tuition money that the students pay to college is for their courses. It is not right to have the college take this money and make the student's decisions for them. The students should have the right to make this decision on their own. This does not only make for unwisely spent funds, but also unhappy students who are therfore not going appreciate a forced class. Secondly, college is where a person goes to discover him/herself. This is one of the many goals of the college system, and that discovery process is hindered by unneeded, mandatory classes. Students should be able to try many different classes to discover what interests them the most, not to be fed knowledge that they very well might know already (and is perhaps of no interest to them). If required courses were eliminated, it would free up much time that students could then use to pursue their own interests. College exists to help people become unique individuals, not to put every person into the same standard mold. Thirdly, college selection systems are designed to admit most students on the basis of what they know already (after all, the purpose of high school is to prepare you for college). If the selection system was actually accurate or efficient, they would have chosen students who already knew the material that was required, thus not needing to take the core classes. This would save funding for the university because they would not have to teach redundant classes that only review what a student knows. For an institution that promotes self discovery and educational freedom, mandatory courses seem to be dogmatically needless.

Battle Of Impunity :: essays research papers

Battle of Impunity   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Insults often serve as a catalyst for revenge. Yet, revenge never comes without consequences. These consequences can stay in a person’s subconscious for the remainder of their life. Through the clever short story â€Å"The Cask of Amontillado† by Edgar Allan Poe, Montresor suffers from being insulted, seeking revenge and living with guilt. Montresor is unsuccessful in punishing Fortunato with impunity. The obsession to confess is a killer. Montresor starts the evil revenge plot with a smile on his face. â€Å"It must be understood that neither by word nor deed had I given Fortunato cause to doubt my good will. I continued, as was my wont, to smile in his face, and he did not perceive that my smile now was at the thought of his immolation.† Montresor believes that he will feel free and better about himself, for he will be completing his mission of impunity. With one brick remaining, â€Å"My heart grew sick; it was the dampness of the catacombs that made it so.† He thinks he will feel free, but throughout his life his freedom to do otherwise stands chained in the dank vault with Fortunato. He to is dead to the world, immobile, chained to the rock of his one guilt-ridden act of aggression. The sickness he feels isn’t the dampness of the catacombs, but the first feeling of remorse. He is killing a well â€Å"respected and even feared† man. Now confessing, t here is no way to change the past and his guilty conscience still remains. Through all the trouble Montresor goes through to kill the one person he truly despises, he benefits nothing. He thinks he will be happy. He even smiles at the sight of Fortunato in the beginning. Once he completes the task, the only thing left to do is live his life leaving Fortunato behind physically and mentally. Montresor can be better off leaving Fortunato alone, but instead he takes the unchristian way out and ends Fortunato’s life. He doesn’t gain anything from doing this, except a guilty conscience and a dead body. â€Å"A wrong is unredressed when retribution overtakes its redresser. It is equally unredressed when the avenger fails to make himself felt as such to him who has done the wrong.† Montresor doesn’t gain anything positive from the revenge.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  With every experience one learns a lesson. Montresor lets the insulting Fortunato go straight to his head. He over reacts and cleverly tricks Fortunato into â€Å"the catacombs of the Montresors.

History of Calculus Essay

Calculus is an integral part of the mathematics world. Various mathematicians coming from all parts of the world have shaped this theorem but the two main contributors are Sir Isaac Newton and Wilhelm Von Leibniz. The reason they are considered the inventors of Calculus is because they were able to give a unified approach to tangent and area problems unlike the others who used specific methods. Both of these mathematicians developed general concepts Newton was associated with the fluxion and the fluent as for Leibniz, he produced the differential and the integral. Isaac Newton was a self-taught mathematic student who studied at Trinity College in Cambridge starting in 1661. He shaped his work in optics, celestial mechanics and mathematics, including calculus. His early work consisted of Analysis with Infinite Series in 1669 but his most famous work is the Mathematical Principles of Natural Philosophy published in 1687. Newton only introduced his notions of calculus in detail until the years 1704 to 1736. Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz was a German who at first, concentrated on the topics of philosophy and law but was introduced to advanced mathematics during a brief stay at the University of Jena in 1663. He worked on his calculus from 1673 to 1676 and revealed his work on differential calculus in 1684 with the integral calculus in 1686. There has been much controversy over who deserves the credit for the primary inventor of Calculus. Some say since Newton started his work earlier, Leibniz may have plagiarized some of the work. Others explain that Leibniz worked on his theories alone and published his work before Newton. This rift destroyed Leibniz who left the world with almost no one by his side, while Newton was glorified. It is important to state that Leibniz concepts were easier to use and that the name of the theorem is due to him. He also created the symbols used for differentiation and integration. Needless to say, it is due to both of their incredible work that millions of people have discovered the complex and interesting world of calculus!

Banyan Tree Essay

Minimal advertising, still high level of brand awareness through company’s public relations and global marketing programs. Faced the challenge of translating and maintaining the success of a niche Asian hospitality brand into various market segments on a global scale ‘Innovative niche product that could also bridge the price gap in this market’ Building a resort comprising individual villas with locally inspired architectural design and positioned as a romantic and intimate escapade for guests; ‘Sanctuary for the senses’. Banyan Tree Gallery: ‘local culture and heritage and promoting cottage Crafts, retail outlet showcasing indigenous crafts, works closely with village cooperatives and not-for-profit craft marketing agents.  Marketing: high-end travel magazines in key markets – public relations – global marketing programs (increase editorial coverage) – few key wholesalers in each targeted market – agents specializing in exlusive luxury holidays targeted at wealthy customers – membership in the Small Luxury Hotels and Leading Hotels of the World – GDS cose ‘BY’ (own global distribution system used by travel providers to process airline, hotel, car rental and other distribution partners around the world. Actively caring for the natural and human environment, revitalizing local communities, worked actively to preserve, protect, and promote the natural and human environments in which BYT resorts where located. Minimizing the impact on the environment Green Communities = planted trees, engage local communities, associates, guests to share the causes of climate change and actions that can reduce our collected carbon footprint. Green Imperative Fund to further support community-based and environmental initiatives in the regions where it has a presence. The company believed in building profitable resorts that would benefit the surrounding environment and contribute to local economies through the creation of employment and community development projects. Businesses with local farmers and traders by making it a point to purchase fresh produce from them. Community Relations Department was set up to develop and manage community outreach programs. Seedling: BTHR’s formalized program which aimed to help oung adults from local communities and motivate them and provide the means for completing their education to successfully enter the labor force as adults. Future: openening city hotels and angsana hotels in Dubai and London (angsana brand in response to the demand for hotel operators in Asia that were keen to introduce spa services in their hotel, it is more contemporary and affordable brand. Musem Shop by banyan tree: joint partnetship with Singapor’s national heritage board to showcase Asi’a rich and diverse cultural heritage through unique museum-inspired merchandise. Banyan Tree Holdings (Banyan Tree) is an investment holding company involved in managing and developing premium resorts, hotels and spas in the Asia Pacific. To date, the Banyan Tree Group manages and/or has ownership interests in close to 36 hotels and resorts, around 73 spas, 91 galleries  and 3 golf courses in 28 countries The company operates in Asia, Mexico and Morocco, New Zealand, Africa, Dubai, and the UK. Banyan Tree operates through three business segments: hotel investment, property sales, and fee-based. The hotel investments segment relates to hotel and restaurant operations. : The property sales segment comprises hotel residences, Laguna property sales and development project/site sales. Hotel residences business relates to the sale of hotel villas or suites which are part of hotel operations, to investors under a compulsory leaseback scheme. Laguna property sales business relates to the development and sale of properties which are standalone vacation homes in Laguna Phuket. Development project/site sales relates to pure development land sales or development land sales which are fully or partially developed with infrastructure. The fee-based segment comprises the management of hotels and resorts, the management of an asset-backed destination club, the management of private-equity funds, the management and operation of spas, the sales of merchandise, the provision of architectural and design services, the management and ownership of golf courses, and rental of retail outlets and offices. The company’s subsidiaries (dochterbedrijf) include Banyan Tree Spa Bangkok, Banyan Tree Spa Bintan, Banyan Tree Spa Ringha, Banyan Tree Spa Phuket, Banyan Tree Sanya, and Banyan Tree Macau, among others. Banyan Tree Holdings (Banyan Tree) is engaged in the management and development of premium resorts, hotels and spas. The company’s key services include the following. Hotel and restaurant operations Sale of hotel villas or suites – Development and sale of properties – Pure development land sales – Management of hotels and resorts – Management of an asset-backed destination club – Management of private-equity funds -Management and operation of spas – Architectural and design services – Management and ownership of golf courses – Rental of retail outlets and offices. The following companies are the major competitors of Banyan Tree Holdings Limited: Central Plaza Hotel Public Company Limited – Four Seasons Hotels Inc – Associated International Hotels Ltd In the past few years, such events risks as the Tohoku earthquake and tsunami, bird flu, floods and riots in Thailand have been hard on our industry, causing tourism as a whole to dry up in their wake. By comparison, economic recessions are part and parcel of the business cycle, which we are able to take in our stride and counter with a variety of measures. During the year, the world remained mired in the European sovereign debt crisis and American economic weakness. Although these conditions affected our arrivals primarily from Europe, we were able to capitalise on the flourishing Chinese market. At our four resorts in the Maldives, for example, the number of Chinese guests surpassed those from Europe. In our continuing efforts to rebalance the Group’s assets, we made the bargain purchase of Banyan Tree Seychelles which gave rise to a net gain. We also sold and leased back Angsana Velavaru in January 2013. The hybrid structure of this deal is a first for Banyan Tree, and we are pleased with how it allows us to rebalance our portfolio while still participating in the profits from the operations of Angsana Velavaru. 2012: with overall revenue growing 3% to S$338. 4 million. Due to improved results from our hotel investments and fee-based businesses, as well as a higher contribution from completed sales of property units. Group EBITDA was S$74. 5 million, up 51% on the back of higher revenue and a gain on the bargain purchase of Banyan Tree Seychelles. This in turn resulted in PATMI increasing by 856% (S$14. million), tempered by higher finance costs and income tax expenses. HOTEL INVESTMENTS Our hotel investments delivered a stronger performance in 2012, with Group-owned hotels posting total revenue of S$187. 7 million, up 15% from the previous year. This was due to the higher contribution from our Thai properties and the consolidation of revenue from Banyan Tree Seychelles from 2Q12 onwards. These gains were partially offset by lower revenue from our Maldives properties as Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Angsana Ihuru were temporarily closed for refurbishment. As a result of the increase in revenue, EBITDA for this segment grew by a healthy 69% to S$36. 6 million. PROPERTY SALES Revenue from property sales was S$42. 7 million. The 36% decrease was due to the sale of development sites in Lijiang, Yangshuo and Huangshan to our China Fund in 2011. Excluding those transactions, revenue and EBITDA from property sales saw growth of 43% and 74% respectively, thanks to a higher contribution from completed sales of property units. FEE-BASED Total revenue from our fee-based businesses registered growth of 9% to reach S$108. million. This was attributable to an increase in fees from hotel management and architectural and interior design and other services. Accordingly, EBITDA for our fee-based businesses grew by 23%. 2013 appears to be another challenging year for the global economy. We anticipate continued weakness in our European target markets. In Asia, which has been the world’s economic engine these past four years, growth is likely to moderate. Despite the cooling of China’s economy, the tourism market both inbound and outbound is expected to continue to grow. The Chinese government is aggressively promoting domestic tourism as part of its strategy to increase domestic consumption, thereby cushioning the slowdown in export manufacturing. Banyan Tree’s strong branding and rapidly expanding footprint in China will position us to take advantage of this trend. Our seven regional marketing offices in China will be invaluable in enabling us to tap the vast potential of this market and to enhance awareness of our hotels with key accounts in China. Our strategy going forward will include continuing with our asset rebalancing to unlock value and deploy capital to more promising markets. At the same time, we are exploring the possibility of extending the successful Fund model into other areas. In terms of growing particular segments, we will be focusing on increasing income from our fee-based and property sales businesses. We have built the fee-based segment to a point where it now has an impetus of its own. On the property sales front, we plan to move into selling more primary and serviced residences. Primary residences under the Banyan Tree brand, â€Å"We will also be going forward with the establishment of a third brand of residences to be wholly sold and managed by us. † Rather than compete with local property developers, we will leverage our branding and design skills to market to a niche audience in China. We will also be going forward with the establishment of a third brand of residences to be wholly sold and managed by us. Catering to an entirely new market of price-conscious buyers, these properties will be smaller in size yet deliver the quality and innovation that are hallmarks of Banyan Tree. Strongly associated with our brand is the concept of a triple bottom line. In our pursuit of economic, social and environmental success, we made major investments in resource conservation, training and benchmarking, greening and community efforts in 2012. Under the EarthCheck system of sustainability certification, we also planted in six-year a total to over 220,000 trees. Banyan Tree Hotels and Resorts offer an intimate retreat experience featuring its signature blend of romance, rejuvenation and exotic sensuality. Our philosophy is based on providing a place for rejuvenation of the body, mind and soul – a Sanctuary for the Senses. Placing special emphasis on providing guests with a sense of place, each Banyan Tree property is designed to fit into its natural surroundings, using indigenous materials as far as possible and reflecting the landscape and architecture of the destination. Pioneering he tropical garden spa concept with Asian health and beauty remedies passed down from generations, Banyan Tree Spa was created as the signature experience in all Banyan Tree resorts, to complement the â€Å"Sanctuary for the Senses† wellness concept. With the emphasis on high service standards and consistency, therapists are professionally trained at Banyan Tree Spa Academies in Phuket, Thailand, and Lijiang, China. The Banyan Tree Gallery supports local communities by exhibiting and retailing indigenous handicrafts, which are also found in the resorts. A quintessential highlight of the Banyan Tree experience, Banyan Tree Gallery aspires to recreate the unique Banyan Tree experience with  its extensive selection of  Asian-style furnishings, Banyan Tree Spa collection, eco-friendly products, indigenous village handicrafts, ethnic apparel and accessories, and objects d’art. Banyan Tree Holdings Limited is a leading, international hospitality brand that manages and develops premium resorts, hotels and spas. Its innovative business model is based on seven business segments generating multiple income streams that is unique in itself within the hospitality industry. This formula of developing and managing complementary product offerings with in-house talent makes it difficult for competitors to duplicate with the same level of success. Banyan Tree’s vertically integrated business model comprises: Hotel investment– Banyan Tree owns and manages luxury hotels under its brands, as well as hotels that are managed by other world-class operators. Hotel management– Banyan Tree additionally manages properties under the Banyan Tree and Angsana brands for other owners. Canopy Marketing Group Pte Ltd – A company wholly owned by Banyan Tree Services, Canopy Marketing Group Pte Ltd provides high-level strategic insights on various global niche markets to drive top line performance of our diverse range of lifestyle products including hotels, resorts, spas, gallery, destination club and residential ownership. It has a full-suite of marketing capabilities specializing in the branding, marketing and promotion. Spa operations– Banyan Tree Spa pioneered the tropical garden spa concept, and has since grown to over 60 outlets worldwide. Gallery operations– The retail arm is consolidated under Banyan Tree Gallery, which comprises five brand segments located in over 70 stores worldwide. Hotel residences – Hotel inventory are primarily sold under the brand name Banyan Tree Residences. Property sales – Properties that are not part of hotel operations are sold by our subsidiary company, Laguna Resorts and Hotels, and its subsidiaries, in Laguna Phuket. Design and other services – Revenue from design services is earned by Architrave, Banyan Tree’s in-house architectural arm. Other service fees include income from operating golf clubs. Real Estate Hospitality Funds – Banyan Tree Capital was set upto tap private equity and other sources of investments in order to provide a cost efficient structure to fund the Group’s future developments. With about 8,000 associates of over 50 nationalities, the diversity of its workforce is a key feature of the Group and helps to inspire its international outlook. To address its talent development needs, Banyan Tree launched Banyan Tree Management Academy (BTMA) in 2008. This centralised training facility located in Phuket, Thailand will train future Banyan Tree leaders needed to sustain organisational effectiveness and to meet the demands of its rapid global growth. Part of Banyan Tree’s vision has always been to grow into a global business, with a portfolio of properties strategically placed around the world. The Group’s mission is inextricably intertwined with its commitment to corporate social responsibility and sustainable growth, as it continues to expand globally. The launch of Banyan Tree Residences, which allows investors to buy their own signature villa, townhouse or apartment in Banyan Tree resorts. Banyan Tree Private Collection was launched to cater to the growing niche for destination club membership 2005: Marking the group’s long awaited foray into China is Banyan Tree Ringha, in Yunnan. 2001: Banyan Tree established the Green Imperative Fund to formalise its corporate social responsibility efforts. The Banyan Tree Spa Academy was set up to provide training for new therapists as well as research new treatment recipes and techniques. Banyan Tree Capital is a real estate fund management company established by the Banyan Tree group, a renowned luxury hospitality company listed in Singapore, to focus on hospitality-based real estate investment. Banyan Tree Capital raises, develops and manages branded hospitality funds in key development markets of the Banyan Tree group. With a combination of fund management and asset development capabilities, Banyan Tree Capital leverages on the group’s expertise in premium hospitality real estate development and anagement to generate attractive investment returns for its investors. Banyan Tree Capital is headquartered in Singapore with offices in China and Vietnam. We have successfully achieved higher room rates than the existing market in locations such as Lijiang, the Maldives and Seychelles. We have also found that our iconic brands also help raise the value of the surrounding land. Our innovative city products combine all the iconic elements of our brand and differentiat e developers within established, high cost city markets. We have the flexibility and capabilities to adapt our model to various locations so as to maximize returns for the developer As part of our strategy of enlarging our footprint in China, we will also be launching two more hotels in Shanghai and one in Tianjin, adding to our ever growing presence in various gateway cities. We are also employing our capabilities all across China, where large tracts of land are being developed into gated residences and luxury hotels offered to the Chinese elite. One of Banyan Tree’s prime concerns is its associates. We pride ourselves in providing high levels of service excellence and providing tailor made training and career development programmes for our employees. No stone is left unturned in regards to training and proper introduction before a Banyan Tree is put into operation. Trained to the basic standards of 5 star hotels. Employees were empowered to exercise creativity and sensitivity although the strict administrative rules of the management. Employees were taken to and from work in air-conditioned buses, access to various amenities (good-quality canteens, medical services, childcare facilities). Banyan Tree is one of the world’s biggest and well known spa operators. Our levels of quality and service are unparalleled and uncompromised. We are the only vertically integrated hospitality company with strong capabilities to tackle and anticipate the challenges of master planning and developing an integrated resort. We are able to take a property from inception to delivery with efficiencies that is entirely brand specific. Our n-house design team, Architrave, and project services team are extremely involved in all phases of the development – master planning, designing, developing and coordinating, to ensure developers a timely delivery of their asset. Being experienced developers, we are able to ensure that efficiencies and economies of scale are maximized along with guest experiences. Bintan, the Maldives and Phuket where the Angsana resort is positioned next to a Banyan Tree resort with shared back of house facilities. This model has allowed us to lower costs without cannibalizing rates, thereby boosting returns for our developers.