The Return: Midnight Chapter 28

Elena was nodding slowly. â€Å"It would work with what happened to me. At first I was alone out of my body, but then I saw Bonnie beside me.† Bonnie bit her lip. â€Å"Well †¦the first thing I saw was Elena and we were both flying. I was a little behind her. But Stefan, why do you think I fel asleep and dreamed a whole story? Why can't my version just be true?† â€Å"Because I think the first thing you'd have done would be to turn the light on – if you real y were lying there awake. Otherwise, you might well have picked up a soap opera – so boring!† Bonnie's forehead smoothed at last. â€Å"That would explain why nobody believed me even when I told them exactly where the story was! But why didn't I tel Elena about the treasure?† â€Å"I don't know. But sometimes when you wake up – and I think you did wake up to have the out-of-body experience – you forget the dream if something interesting is going on. But then you might remember it later if something reminds you of it.† Bonnie stared into a middle distance, thinking. Stefan was silent, knowing that only she could unravel the riddle for herself. At last Bonnie nodded. â€Å"It could be that way! I woke up and the first thing I thought of was the sweetshop. And after that I never gave another thought to the treasure dream until somebody asked for stories. And it just popped into my head.† Elena pushed the deep blue-green velvet coverlet one way to make it green, then the other way to smooth it into blueness. â€Å"I was going to forbid Bonnie to go on the expedition,†she said: this slave who didn't have a gem on her body except Stefan's pendant which hung from a fine chain around her neck, and was Stillin the simplest kind of after-bath robe. â€Å"But if it's something we have to do, I'd better talk to Lady Ulma. It sounds as if time is precious.† â€Å"Remember – time runs differently here than back on Earth. But we're supposed to leave in the morning,†Bonnie said. â€Å"Then I definitely need to talk to her – right now.† Bonnie jumped up, excited. â€Å"I'l help!† â€Å"Wait.†Stefan put a gentle hand on Bonnie's arm. â€Å"I have to say this. I think you're a miracle, Bonnie!†Stefan knew his eyes must be shining in a way that showed he could hardly rein in his excitement. In spite of the danger – in spite of the Guardians – in spite of everything†¦the largest star bal – ful of Power! He gave Bonnie a sudden impetuous hug, sweeping her off the bed and whirling her before putting her down again. â€Å"You and your precognitions!† â€Å"Oooh†¦Ã¢â‚¬ Bonnie said dizzily, gazing up at him. â€Å"Damon was excited, too, when I told him about the Gateway of the Seven Treasures.† â€Å"You know why, Bonnie? It's because everybody has heard about those seven treasures – but no one had any idea where they are†¦until you dreamed it. You do know exactly where they are?† â€Å"Yes, if the precognition was true.†Bonnie was flushed with pleasure. â€Å"And you agree that that giant star bal wil save Fel ‘s Church?† â€Å"I'd bet my life on it!† â€Å"Woo-hoo!†cried Bonnie, pumping a fist. â€Å"Let's go!† â€Å"So you see,†Elena was saying, â€Å"it'l mean twice as much of everything. I don't see how we can start tomorrow.† â€Å"Now, now, Elena. As we discovered, oh, eleven months ago when you left, any job can be done quickly if we summon enough hands. I am now the regular employer of al those women we used to cal in to make your bal gowns.†As Lady Ulma spoke she quickly and graceful y took Elena's measurements – why do only one thing when you can do two at once? She glanced at her measuring tape. â€Å"Stillexactly the same as when I last saw you. You must lead a very healthy life, Elena.† Elena laughed. â€Å"Remember, for us it's only been a few days.† â€Å"Oh, yes.†Lady Ulma laughed, too, and Lakshmi, who was seated on a stool amusing the baby, made what Elena knew was one last appeal. â€Å"I could go with you,†she said earnestly, looking at Elena. â€Å"I can do al sorts of helpful things. And I'm tough – â€Å" â€Å"Lakshmi,†Lady Ulma said gently, but in a voice that wore the hat of authority. â€Å"We're already doubling the size of the wardrobe needed to accommodate Elena and Stefan. You wouldn't want to take Elena's place, would you?† â€Å"Oh, no, no,†the young girl said hastily. â€Å"Oh, Well,†she said, â€Å"I'l take such good care of little Adara that she's no bother to you while you supervise Elena's and Stefan's clothes.† â€Å"Thank you, Lakshmi,†Elena said from her heart, noting that Adara now seemed to be the baby's official name. â€Å"Well, we can't let out any of Bonnie's things to fit you, but we can cal in reinforcements and have a ful set of garments ready for you and Stefan by the morning. It's just a matter of leather and fur to keep you warm. We use the pelts of the animals up north.† â€Å"They're not nice, cuddly baby animals, either,†Bonnie said. â€Å"They're vicious nasty things that are used for training, or they might come up from the dimension below and attack al the people on the northern fringes here. And when they final y get kil ed, the bounty hunters sel the leather and fur to Lady Ulma.† â€Å"Oh, well †¦good,†Elena said, deciding not to make an animAll rights speech just now. The truth was that she was Stillvery shaken by her actions – her reactions – toward Damon. Why had she acted that way? Was it just to let off pressure? She Stillfelt as if she could smack him a good one for taking poor Bonnie away, and then leaving her alone. And†¦and†¦for taking poor Bonnie – and not taking her! Damon must hate her now, she thought, and suddenly the world developed a sickening, out-of-control motion, as if she were trying to balance on a seesaw. And Stefan – what else could he think but that she was a woman scorned, the kind that Hel had no fury like? How could he be so kind, so caring, when anyone in their right mind would know she'd gone mad with jealousy? Bonnie didn't understand either. Bonnie was a child, not a woman. Although, although, she'd grown somehow – in goodness, in understanding. She was wil ful y blind, like Stefan. But – didn't that take maturity? Could Bonnie be more of a woman than she, Elena, was? â€Å"I'l have a private supper sent up to your rooms,†Lady Ulma was saying, as she quickly and deftly used the measuring tape on Stefan. â€Å"You get a good night's sleep; the thurgs – and your wardrobes – wil be waiting tomorrow.†She beamed at allof them. â€Å"Could I have – I mean, is there any Black Magic at all?†Elena stumbled. â€Å"The excitement†¦I'm going to sleep in my room alone. I want to get a good night's rest. We're going on a quest, you know?†Al the truth. Al a lie. â€Å"Of course, I'l have a bottle sent to – â€Å"Lady Ulma hesitated and then quickly recovered. â€Å"To your room, but why don't we al have a nightcap now? It looks just the same outside,†she added to Stefan, the newcomer, â€Å"but it's real y rather late.† Elena drank her first glass in one draft. The attendant had to refil it immediately. And again a moment later. After that her nerves seemed to relax a bit. But the seesaw feeling never entirely left, and though she slept alone in her room, Damon didn't visit to quarrel with her, mock her, or kil her – and certainly not to kiss. Thurgs, Elena discovered, were something like two elephants stitched together. Each had two side-by-side trunks and four wicked-looking tusks. Each also had a high, wide, long ridged tail, like a reptile. Their smal yel ow eyes were placed al around their domelike heads, so that they could see 360 degrees around, looking for predators. Predators that could take down a thurg! Elena imagined a sort of saber-toothed cat, enormous, with a milk-white pelt big enough to line several garments of hers and Stefan's. She was pleased with her new outfits. Each one was essential y a tunic and breeches, soft, pliable, rain-shedding leather on the outside; and warm, luxurious fur on the inside. But they wouldn't be genuine Lady Ulma creations if that was al there were to them. The inner bodysuit of white fur was reversible and removable so you could change depending on the weather. There were triple-thick wind-around col ars, which trailed behind or could be turned into scarves that wrapped a face up to the eyes. The white pelts spil ed out of the leather at the wrists to make mittens you couldn't lose. The guys had straight leather tunics that just met at the breeches, and fastened with buttons. The girls'tunics were longer and flared out a bit. They were neatly fringed, but not stained or dyed except for Damon's, which, of course, were black with sable fur. One thurg would carry the travelers and their baggage. A second, larger and wilder looking, would carry heating stones to help cook human food and al the food (it looked like red hay) that the two thurgs would eat on the way to the Nether World. Pelat showed them how to move the giant creatures, with the lightest of taps of a very long stick, which could scratch a thurg behind its hippo-like ears or give it a ferocious tap at that sensitive spot, signaling it to hasten forward. that sensitive spot, signaling it to hasten forward. â€Å"Is it safe, having Biratz carry al the thurg food? I thought you said she was unpredictable,†Bonnie asked Pelat. â€Å"Now, miss, I wouldn't give her to you if she wasn't safe. She'l be roped to Dazar so al she has to do is fol ow,†Pelat replied. â€Å"We ride these?†Stefan said, craning his neck to get a look at the smal , enclosed palanquin on top of the very large animal. â€Å"We have to,†Damon said flatly. â€Å"We can hardly walk al the way. We're not al owed to use magic like that fancy Master Key you used to get here. No magic but telepathy works up at the very top of the Dark Dimension. These dimensions are flat like plates, and according to Bonnie, there's a fracture, just at the far north of this one – not too far from here, in other words. The crack is smal by dimensional standards, but big enough for us to get through. If we want to reach the Gatehouse of the Seven Treasures we start on thurgs.† Stefan shrugged. â€Å"All right. We're doing it your way.† Pelat was putting a ladder up. Lady Ulma, Bonnie, and Elena were weeping and laughing over the baby together. They were Stilllaughing as they left on their way. The first week or so was boring. They sat in the palanquin on the back of the thurg named Dazar, with a compass from Elena's backpack dangling from the roof. They general y kept al the sides of the palanquin's curtains rol ed up, except the one facing west, where the bloated, bloody red sun – too bright to look at in the higher, cleaner air outside the city – constantly loomed on the horizon. The view al around them was dreadful y monotonous – mind-bendingly so, with few trees and many miles of dried brown grassy hil s. Nothing interesting to a non-hunter ever showed up. The only thing that changed was as they traveled farther north, it got colder. It was difficult for al of them, living in such close quarters. Damon and Elena had reached an equilibrium – or at least a pretense – of ignoring each other, something Elena would never have imagined could be possible. Damon made it easier by working on a different sleep cycle than the others – which helped to guard them as the thurgs trudged onward, day and night. If he was awake when Elena was, he would ride outside the palanquin, on the thurg's enormous neck. They both had such stiff necks, Elena thought. Neither of them wanted to be the first to bend. Meanwhile those inside the palanquin began to play little games, like picking the long dried grasses from the side of the road and trying to weave them into dol s, fly whisks, hats, whips. Stefan proved to be the one who made the tightest weave, and he made fly whisks and broad fans for each of them. They also played various card games, using stiff little place cards (had Lady Ulma thought they might give a dinner party on the way?) as playing cards, after careful y marking them with the four suits. And of course, the vampires hunted. Sometimes this took quite a long time, since game was scarce. The Black Magic Lady Ulma had stocked helped them stretch the time between hunts. When Damon visited the palanquin, it was as if he were crashing a private party and thumbing his nose at the hosts. Final y Elena couldn't stand it any longer, and had Stefan float her up the side of the thurg (looking down or climbing up were definitely not options) while flying magic Stillworked. She sat down on the saddle beside Damon and gathered her courage. â€Å"Damon, I know you have a right to be angry with me. But don't take it out on the others. Especial y Bonnie.† â€Å"Another lecture?†Damon asked, giving her a look that would freeze a flame. â€Å"No, just a – a request.†She couldn't bring herself to say â€Å"a plea.† When he didn't answer and the silence became unbearable, she said, â€Å"Damon, for us – we're not going on a quest for treasure out of greed or adventure or any normal reason. We're going because we need to save our town.† â€Å"From Midnight,†a voice just behind her said. â€Å"From the Last Midnight.† Elena whirled to stare. She expected to see Stefan holding Bonnie clasped to him hard. But it was only Bonnie at her head level, hanging on to the thurg ladder. Elena forgot she was afraid of heights. She stood up on the swaying thurg, ready to climb down on the sun side if there wasn't enough room for Bonnie to sit down fast in the driver's saddle. But Bonnie had the slimmest hips in town and there was just room for al three of them. â€Å"The Last Midnight is coming,†Bonnie repeated. Elena knew that monotonous voice, knew the chalk-white cheeks, the blank eyes. Bonnie was in trance – and moving. It must be urgent. â€Å"Damon,†Elena whispered. â€Å"If I speak to her, she'l break trance. Can you ask her telepathical y what she means?† A moment later she heard Damon's projection. What is the Last Midnight? What's going to happen then? â€Å"That's when it starts. And it's over in less than an hour. So†¦ no more midnights.† I beg your pardon? No more midnights? â€Å"Not in Fel ‘s Church. No one left to see them.† And when is this going to happen? â€Å"Tonight. The children are final y ready.† The children? Bonnie simply nodded, her eyes far away. Something's going to happen to all the children? Bonnie's eyelids drooped to half mast. She didn't seem to hear the question. Elena needed to hold on to something. And suddenly she was. Damon had reached across Bonnie's lap and taken her hand. Bonnie, are the children going to do something at midnight? he asked. Bonnie's eyes fil ed and she bowed her head. â€Å"We've got to go back. We have to go to Fel ‘s Church,†Elena said, and scarcely knowing what she was doing, unclasped Damon's hand and climbed down the ladder. The bloated red sun looked different – smal er. She tugged at the curtain and almost bumped heads with Stefan as he rol ed it up to let her in. â€Å"Stefan, Bonnie's in trance and she said – â€Å" â€Å"I know. I was eavesdropping. I couldn't even catch her on the way up. She jumped onto the ladder and climbed like a squirrel. What do you think she means?† â€Å"You remember in the out-of-body experience she and I had? A little spying on Alaric? That's what's going to happen in Fel ‘s Church. Al the children, al at once, just at midnight – that's why we have to get back – â€Å" â€Å"Easy. Easy, love. Remember what Lady Ulma said? Nearly a year here came out to be only days in our world.† Elena hesitated. It was true; she couldn't deny it. Still, she felt so cold†¦ Physical y cold, she realized suddenly, as a blast of frigid air swirled around her, cutting through her leather like a machete. â€Å"We need our inner furs,†Elena gasped. â€Å"We must be getting near the fracture.† They yanked down the palanquin covers and secured them and then hastily rummaged through the neat cabinet that was set on the rump of the thurg. The furs were so sleek that Elena could fit two under her leather easily. They were disturbed by Damon coming inside with Bonnie in his arms. â€Å"She stopped talking,†he said, and added, â€Å"Whenever you're warm enough, I suggest that you come out.† Elena laid Bonnie down on one of the two benches inside the palanquin and piled blanket after blanket over her, tucking them in around her. Then Elena made herself climb back up. For a moment she felt blinded. Not by the surly red sun – they had left that behind some mountains, which it turned a pink sapphire color – but by a world of white. Seemingly endless, flat, featureless whiteness stretched out before her until a bank of fog obscured whatever was behind it. â€Å"According to legend, we should be headed toward the Silver Lake of Death,†Damon's voice said from behind Elena. And, oddly, throughout al this chil , his voice was warm – almost friendly. â€Å"Also known as Lake Mirror. But I can't change into a crow to scout ahead. Something's hindering me. And that fog in front of us is impenetrable to psychic probing.† Elena instinctively glanced around her. Stefan was Stillinside the palanquin, obviously Stilltending to Bonnie. â€Å"You're looking for the lake? What's it like? I mean, I can guess why it might be cal ed Silver and Lake Mirror,†she said. â€Å"But what's the Death bit?† â€Å"Water dragons. At least that's what people say – but who has been there to bring back the story?†Damon looked at her. He took care of Bonnie while she was in trance, Elena thought. And he's talking to me at last. â€Å"Water†¦dragons?†she asked him and she made her voice friendly, too. As if they'd just met. They were starting over. â€Å"I've always suspected kronosaurus, myself,†Damon said. He was right behind her now; she could feel him blocking the icy wind – no, more than that. He was generating an envelope of heat for her to stand in. Elena's shivering stopped. She felt for the first time that she could unwrap her arms from clutching herself. Then she felt a pair of strong arms folding around her, and the heat abruptly got quite intense. Damon was standing behind her, holding her, and al at once she was very warm indeed. â€Å"Damon,†she began, not very steadily, â€Å"we can't just – â€Å" â€Å"There's a rock outcropping over there. No one could see us,†the vampire behind her offered – to Elena's absolute shock. A week of not speaking at all – and now this. â€Å"Damon, the guy in the palanquin just below us is my – â€Å" â€Å"Prince? Don't you need a knight, then?†Damon breathed this directly into her ear. Elena stood like a statue. But what he said next rocked her entire universe. â€Å"You like the story of Camelot, don't you? Only here you're the queen, princess. You married your not-quite-fairy-tale prince, but along came a knight who knew even more of your secrets, and he cal ed to you†¦Ã¢â‚¬  â€Å"He forced me,†Elena said, turning to meet Damon's dark eyes straight on, even as her brain screamed for her to let it go. â€Å"He didn't wait for me to hear his cal . He just†¦took what he wanted. Like the slavers do. I didn't know how to fight – then.† â€Å"Oh, no. You fought and fought. I've never seen a human fight so hard. But even when you fought, you felt the cal of my heart to yours. Try to deny that.† â€Å"Damon – why now – al of a sudden†¦?† Damon made a move as if to turn away, then turned back. â€Å"Because by tomorrow we may be dead,†he said flatly. â€Å"I wanted you to know how I felt about you before I died – or you did.† â€Å"But you haven't told me a word about how you feel about me. Only about what you think I feel about you. And I'm sorry that I slapped you the first day I was here, but – â€Å" â€Å"You were magnificent,†Damon said outrageously. â€Å"Forget it now. As for how I feel – maybe I'l get a chance to real y show it to you someday.† Something sparked inside Elena – they were back to fencing with words, as they had been when they'd first met. â€Å"Someday? Sounds convenient. And why not now?† â€Å"Do you mean that?† â€Å"Do I habitual y say things I don't mean?† She was waiting for some kind of apology, some words spoken as simply and sincerely as she had been speaking to him. Instead, with the utmost gentleness, and without glancing around to see if anyone was watching them, Damon cupped Elena's scarf-bound cheeks with his bare hands, pul ed the scarf just below her lips with his thumbs, and kissed her softly. Softly – but not briefly, and something in Elena kept whispering to her that of course she had heard his cal from the moment she first saw him, first felt his aura cal to her. She hadn't known that it was an aura then; she hadn't believed in auras. She hadn't believed in vampires. She'd been an ignorant little idiot†¦ Stefan! A voice like crystal sounded off two notes in her brain, and suddenly she was able to step back from Damon's embrace and look at the palanquin again. No sign of motion there. â€Å"I have to go back,†she told Damon brusquely. â€Å"I have to know what's going on with Bonnie.† â€Å"You mean to see what's going on with Stefan,†he said. â€Å"You needn't worry. He's fast asleep, and so is our little girl.† Elena tensed. â€Å"You Influenced them? Without seeing them?†It was a wild guess, but one side of Damon's mouth crooked up, as if congratulating her. â€Å"How dare you?†she said. â€Å"To be honest, I don't know how I dare.†Damon leaned in close again, but Elena turned her cheek, thinking, Stefan! He can't hear you. He's dreaming about you. Elena was surprised at her own reaction to that. Damon had caught and held her eyes again. Something inside her melted in the intensity of his steady black gaze. â€Å"I'm not Influencing you; I give you my word† – in a whisper. â€Å"But you can't deny what happened between us the last time we were in this dimension.†His breath was on her lips now – and Elena didn't turn aside. She trembled. â€Å"Please, Damon. Show some respect. I'm – oh, God! God! â€Å" â€Å"Elena? Elena! Elena! What's wrong? â€Å" Hurts – that was al Elena could think. A terrible agony had lanced through her chest on the left side. As if she'd been stabbed through the heart. She stifled a scream. Elena, talk to me! If you can't send your thoughts, speak! Through numb lips, Elena said, â€Å"Pain – heart attack – â€Å" â€Å"You're too young and healthy for that. Let me check.†Damon was unfastening her top. Elena let him. She could do nothing for herself, except gasp, â€Å"Oh God! It hurts!† Damon's warm hand was inside her leather and furs. His hand came to rest slightly to the left of center, with only her camisole between his probing fingers and her flesh. Elena, I'm going to take the pain away now. Trust me. Even as he spoke, the stabbing anguish drained. Damon's eyes narrowed, and Elena knew he'd taken the pain into himself, to analyze it. â€Å"It's not a heart attack,†he said a moment later. â€Å"I'm as sure as I can be. It's more as if – Well, as if you'd been staked. But that's sil y. Hmm†¦it's gone now.† For Elena it had been gone since he'd taken it, protecting her. â€Å"Thank you,†she breathed, suddenly realizing that she had been clinging to him, in utter terror that she was dying. Or that he was. He gave her a rare, ful , genuine smile. â€Å"We're both fine. It must have been a cramp.†His gaze had dropped to her lips. â€Å"Do I deserve a kiss?† â€Å"I†¦Ã¢â‚¬ He had comforted her; he had taken the terrible pain away. How could she sanely say no? â€Å"Just one,†she whispered. A hand under her chin. Her eyelids wanted to melt closed, but she widened her eyes and wouldn't let them. As his lips touched hers, his arm around her†¦changed somehow. It was no longer trying to restrain her. It seemed to be wanting to comfort her. And when his other hand stroked her hair softly at the very ends, crushing the waves gently, and just as gently smoothing them out, Elena felt a rush of shivering warmth. Damon wasn't deliberately trying to batter her with the strength of his aura, which at the moment was fil ed with nothing but his feelings for her. The simple fact, though, was that although he was a new-made vampire, he was exceptional y strong and he knew al the tricks of an experienced one. Elena felt as if she had stepped into clear calm water, only to find herself caught in a fierce undertow that there was no resisting; no bargaining with; and certainly no possibility of reaching by reason. She had no choice but to surrender to it and hope that it was taking her, eventual y, to a place she could breathe and live. Otherwise, she would drown†¦but even that possibility didn't seem so dire, now that she could see the tide was made of a chain of little moments strung like pearls. In each one of them was a tiny sparkle of admiration that Damon had for her: pearls for her courage, for her intel igence, for her beauty. It seemed that there was no slightest motion she had made, no b riefest word that she had said, that he had not noticed and locked in his heart as a treasure. But we were fighting then, Elena thought to him, seeing in the undertow a sparkling moment when she had cursed him. Yes – I said you were magnificent when you were angry. Like a goddess come to put the world to rights. I do want to put the world to rights. No, two worlds: the Dark Dimension and my home. But I'm no goddess. Suddenly she felt that keenly. She was a schoolgirl who hadn't even finished high school – and it was in part because of the person who was kissing her wildly now. Oh, think of what you're learning on this trip! Things that no one else in the universe knows, Damon said in her mind. Now pay attention to what you're doing! Elena paid attention, not because Damon wanted her to, but because she couldn't help it. Her eyes drifted shut. She realized that the way to calm this maelstrom was to become part of it, neither giving in nor forcing Damon to, but by meeting the passion in the undertow with what was inside her own heart. As soon as she did, the undertow became wind, and she was flying and not drowning. No, it was better than flying, better than dancing, it was what her heart always yearned for. A high Stillplace where nothing could ever harm them or disturb them. And then, when she was most vulnerable, the pain came again, dril ing through her chest, a little to the left. This time Damon was so mindlocked with her that he felt it from the beginning. And she could hear clearly a phrase in Damon's mind: staking is just as effective on humans as it is on vampires, and his sudden fear that this was a precognition. In the swaying little room, Stefan was asleep holding Bonnie by his side, with the sparkling of Power engulfing them both. Elena, who had a good grip on the palanquin's ladder, vaulted the rest of the way inside. She put a hand on Stefan's shoulder and he woke. â€Å"What is this? Is something wrong with her?†she asked, with a third question: â€Å"Do you know?†buzzing around in her head. But when Stefan lifted his green eyes to her, they were simply worried. Clearly he was not invading her thoughts. He was focused entirely on Bonnie. Thank God, he's such a gentleman, Elena thought for the thousandth time. â€Å"I'm trying to get her warm,†Stefan said. â€Å"After she came out of trance, she was shivering. Then she stopped shivering, but when I took her hand, it was colder than ever. Now I've put an envelope of heat around her. I guess I dozed off for a little while after that.†He added, â€Å"Did you find anything?† I found Damon's lips, Elena thought wildly, but she forced herself to blank out the memory. â€Å"We're looking for Lake Silver Death Mirror,†she said. â€Å"But al I could see was white. The snow and the fog seem to go on forever.† Stefan nodded. Then he careful y went through the motions of plucking apart two layers of air and slid in a hand to touch Bonnie's cheek. â€Å"She's warming up,†he said, and smiled. It took a long while before Stefan was satisfied that Bonnie was warm. When he did, he gently unwrapped her from the heated air that had formed the â€Å"envelope†and lay her on one bench, coming to sit with Elena on the other. Eventual y Bonnie sighed, blinked, and opened her eyes. â€Å"I had a nap,†she said, obviously aware that she had lost time. â€Å"Not exactly,†Elena said, keeping her voice gentle and reassuring. Let's see, how did Meredith do this? â€Å"You went into trance, Bonnie. Do you remember anything about it?† Bonnie said, â€Å"About the treasure?† â€Å"About what the treasure is for,†Stefan said quietly. â€Å"No†¦No†¦Ã¢â‚¬  â€Å"You said that this was the Last Midnight,†Elena said. As far as she could remember, Meredith was pretty direct. â€Å"But we think you were talking about back at home,†she added hastily, seeing terror leap in Bonnie's eyes. â€Å"The Last Midnight – and no morning afterward,†Bonnie said. â€Å"I think – I heard someone saying those words. But no more.† She was as skittish as a wild colt. Elena reminded her about time running differently between the two worlds but it didn't seem to comfort her. Final y, Elena just sat by her and held her. Her head was spinning with thoughts of Damon. He'd forgiven her. That was good, even though he'd taken his own time about it. But the real message was that he was wil ing to share her. Or at least wil ing to say he would to get in her good graces. If she knew him at all, if she ever agreed – oh, God, he might murder Stefan. Again. After al , that was what he had done when Katherine had had the same sentiment. Elena could never think of him without longing. She could never think of him without thinking of Stefan. She had no idea what to do. She was in trouble.

Organizational Management Essay

A1. As the chairman of the board of the Utah Opera, Bill Bailey is in a position of influence to motivate the Opera’s board of directors to oppose a merger with the Utah Symphony by employing the use of Vroom’s Expectancy Theory. This theory suggests that people are motivated by three distinct determinants; valence (reward), expectancy (performance), and instrumentality (belief). Vroom believed that motivation is a result of the level to which a person desires a reward (valence), the analysis of the probability that the effort put forth will deliver the desired performance (expectancy) and the belief that the performance will result in the attainment of a reward (instrumentality). In the case of the Utah Opera, the most desirable reward (valence) would be remaining financially solvent in spite of a weak economy. The required performance (expectancy) is to support or oppose a merger with the Utah Symphony to strengthen the financial standing of both organizations. The belief in the attainment of the desired outcome (instrumentality) is the continued success of the Utah Opera. In order to motivate the Opera’s board of directors using these factors, Mr. Bailey would need to emphasize the vastly different financial considerations of the two programs. Contrasting the Utah Opera’s business model offering flexibility for performance scheduling, as well as the organization’s cash reserves, and tangible assets against the Symphony’s contractually obligated business model lacking any flexibility, high expenditures, and little or no assets to speak of would be of significant importance. By concluding his assessment of the proposed merger with exerts from the letters of opposition written from the community and Mrs. Abravanel, Mr. Bailey would present enough logical and factual information to convince the Opera’s board of directors to oppose the merger. In consideration of their desire for the organization to remain financially solvent in spite of the weak economy (valence), the board of directors for the Utah Opera would more than likely oppose a merger with the Utah Symphony (expectancy) believing that such a merger with the Symphony would weaken the  financial strength of the Opera (instrumentality). A2. As the chairman of the board of the Utah Symphony, Scott Parker is in a position of influence to motivate Mrs. Abravanel to support a merger with the Utah Symphony by employing the use of the Adam’s Equity theory. This theory suggests that people are motivated to act a certain way because being fair and just is of great importance to them. Inequity and injustice are held in relationship to personal satisfaction based on an individual’s perception of inputs and outcomes. Adams believed that an individual perceiving themselves as either under or over- rewarded would become distressed and be motivated to take action to restore balance or equity in a relationship. In the case of the Scott Parker, in order to motivate Mrs. Abravanel to support a merger between the Symphony and the Opera, he would have to appeal to her strongly reported desire to be just and fair like her husband. One such case could be made if Mr. Parker were to point out that the full year, salaried contrac ts her husband fought to win for the musicians in the Symphony could be threatened by the weakening economy and the threat of a deficit looming. A negative equity situation for the artists involved with Opera could also be offered as a comparison. With lower pay, fewer performances, and no contracts, those involved in the Opera lack equity to the wages, standards, and employment security enjoyed by Symphony musicians. Mrs. Abravanel, knowing how passionate her husband was about securing full time professional status and pay for the symphony musicians (input), would likely be motivated to support the merger as means to secure the contracts and pay for the Symphony and create an equal opportunity for the Opera artists(outcome). Additionally, highlighting the fact that the symphony was in the high end of Group II of symphony orchestras in the U.S. based on endowments and expenditures could also compel Mrs. Abravanel to support the merger. Carolyn Abravanel herself publically stated that her husband â€Å"would never take second billing to anyone.† Being in the lower of the two groups put the Symphony in a second billing situation. A successful merger would produce a higher combined budget and as well as larger endowments creating the likelihood that the Symphony could achieve Group I status and eliminate yet another negative equity situation for the Symphony. A3. Anne Ewers is a seasoned professional with a history of successful leadership within various Opera organizations around the country including the Utah Opera. Having worked her way up the ranks from a stage-director to be the general director of the Utah Opera, she earned a great deal of power. Power grants leaders the ability to direct the actions of others and make decisions with a degree of authority. A leader retains both positional and personal power. Anne’s positional power stems from the title she has earned. The title commands respects and gives her a degree of authority over others. It is based on external factors and can be removed. For instance, if Anne were to be removed from her position as the general director of the Opera, she would lose her positional power within the organization. On the other hand, Anne’s personal power is compilation of her good characteristics and traits that help her appeal to others. It is based on internal factors such as intellige nce, ethics, trustworthiness, charismatic nature, confidence, skill level, experience, and expertise. These things are part of who Anne is as a person, and therefore cannot be taken away from her. No matter what rank or title Anne has that gives her positional power, she cannot earn the respect and devotion of the people she leads without her personal power. The judicious use of positional power will enhance personal power and vice-versa with personal power and positional power. However, misuse of either will result in the reduction of both types of authority. Through the merger Anne would become the CEO of the integrated programs. As the CEO certain decisions would have to be made using her positional power. One example of this might include working with other leaders of the combined organizations to create an integration plan and a new vision for the combined programs and then implementing it with the artists and musicians. Another instance where the use of positional power would be appropriate for Anne to use would be for her to draft an organizational chart for the combined organ ization and take it to the board for approval. There are times decisions have to be made by a leader without passing the buck. To be an effective leader, Anne will need to have followers. This is where the influence of Anne’s personal power comes into play. Anne will have to wisely assess events on a situational  basis while at the same time considering the needs, motivators, and emotions of the people involved. By being thoughtful, honest, and fair she will earn the trust and respect of the people she leads. One example of how Anne might use her personal power might be found in how she chooses to listen to and address the concerns of Keith Lockhart. As the music director for the symphony he would be reporting directly to Anne Ewers. Being accustomed to having more person control than the new organizational structure allows will require some adjustments on his part. By listening intently to Keith and seeking his input where appropriate Anne has a greater chance of earning his respect, trust, and loyalty. A3a. In the potential merger, Anne would become the CEO of the integrated programs. With this position comes the power to make unilateral decisions necessary to operate the organization. To successfully lead the efforts as the proposed CEO, Anne Ewers should use her positional power to develop an integration plan and a solid structure for the new, integrated organization. By defining the roles of key individuals such as Keith Lockhart and Leslie Peterson, Anne could maximize their effectiveness in the merger, satisfy their need for control, and ensure a smooth transition. Gaining the support of the leaders in both entities is a vital to the cohesive success of the merger. Anne will need them to guide the artists and musicians through the transitional process By delegating some her own authority to each of these leaders Anne has a greater potential to make them each feel valued and important without actually relinquishing any real overall control. Due to the nature of her position, Anne will retain the final decisions in all business activities. As the CEO, Anne should also use her positional power to establish a workable budget the financial framework to support it for the board of directors to approve. Her shrewd business acumen, successful fundraising abilities, and a knack for creating financial reserves despite budgetary constraints will grant her expertise in this area. A well laid out financial plan than includes a detailed fundraising campaign is a pivotal portion of the success of the integrated organization. The board of directors and potential donors will need reassurance that the financial well being of the new conglomeration is secure. Anne Ewers will need to provide that in order to prove she was the correct choice for the CEO position. A3b. Anne Ewers has acquired a vast skill set and knowledge base through her years of experience working in the opera industry. She has proven herself to be an ethical, intelligent, trustworthy, confident, and charismatic leader. This compilation of traits and characteristics grant her a great deal of personal power to draw upon in order to empower Keith Lockhart after the merger. In this case, empowerment means Anne will need to give Mr. Lockhart power and official authority. She will first need to gain his trust and commitment. To achieve this Anne can share her vision for the combined organization and his role in it with him. Mr. Lockhart’s primary objection to the merger centered on his having to report to Mrs. Ewers in the new management structure. His own loss of power was a blow to his ego. As the CEO, Anne can transfer some of her positional power and authority to Mr. Lockhart to offset his negative feelings and make him feel valued. She can do this without diminishing any of her overall power or control. Using her personal power, Anne will also need to make Keith Lockhart feel like he is valued and needed as key decision maker in the integrated organization. She will need to emphasize that his participation as a leader is vital to the success of the merger. Mr. Lockhart has to know that he has the power to help set the course of the new entity. His input will be used to set goals, address issues associated with the merger, and to define the course of the symphony. In essence, Anne will need to convince Mr. Lockhart that he has the necessary power to guide the symphony into the future. A4. As a unionized body, the symphony musicians have contracts for wages and benefits protected by a collective agreement. This agreement calls for significant salary increases in each of the next two years. With some musicians fearing that the merger could lead the board of directors to reopen the current collective bargaining agreement as a means to renegotiate the expected salary increases and other terms, opposition to the merger and/or threat of a strike are potential issues at hand. A strike could be detrimental to the organization since there would be no symphony without the musicians, and the same musicians play for the opera. The bottom line is that both entities in the organization depend on the musicians to produce income. This position offers the group organizational strength and power. A4a. To mitigate the potential issue of opposition to the merger and/or threat of a strike with the musicians, it is recommended that Anne ensure the security of the musician’s contracts as written with the board of directors. With the board’s agreement, Anne could then approach the musicians with a guarantee that the current contracts will stand as written without any threat of renegotiation. Although this is a costly solution, neither the opera nor the symphony is in a position to operate without musicians. In the long run, honoring the contracts is most likely less expensive and detrimental to the new combined entity than a strike would be. The public relations ramifications could result in a more costly backlash than even the immediate monetary losses if it were to impact future donations. A5. With eleven years of proven leadership and a reputation for being energetic, enthusiastic, and capable, Anne Ewers is in an excellent position to persuade the Utah Opera staff to support the merger. By employing the use of soft tactics such as rational persuasion, and inspirational appeals, Anne is more likely to be influential with them. As a member of the Opera team herself, Anne is trusted and respected by the staff. Through rational persuasion Anne has the opportunity to logically explain the facts as to why the merger is good for the opera. Reiterating that the downturn in the economy and declining ticket sales would most likely impact the organization could be a starting point. Anne needs to explain that by no longer competing against the symphony for funding; both organizations would stand to gain a stronger footing. By promising to safeguard the Opera’s identity through process Anne could also ease their fears and gain their acceptance. Given her enthusiastic nature and proven track record for successfully guiding the opera, Anne could also make an inspirational appeal to the staff. As part of a larger entity with a solid economic backing, the opera could become a tier-one arts organization. Expanding the artistic potential of the opera would also elevate the status of the organization to be more in line with the symphony. This level of recognition could prove to be very meaningful to all those involved with the opera. Building enthusiasm for the merger as the way to achieve this type of recognition would help also Anne to garner the  staff’s commitment to the process.

Development of tourism in Scotland Essay

For a country to be a successful tourist destination, the normal impression that anybody has is that the country must be easy to access, with modern means of transport and good communication, unlike Scotland. A small country located on the periphery of Europe, Scotland is characteristic of tartans, highlands, mountains, castles and bagpipes etc, and for long, poor accessibility and transportation persisted in the country. Nevertheless, Scotland is among the most successful tourist destinations. Many have tried to bring about development of tourism in the country. The Scotts, in particular, were worried that the country’s inaccurate historic description might taint its image as a tourist destination. But little did they realize that in fact, portraying the country in modern perspective could cause considerable harm to its established image, which attracted a good number of visitors. [Butler, Richard. Tartan Mythology. 1998. p. 122. The traditional tourist image of Scotland. ] Besides the residents, the country saw noteworthy visitors, who contributed, directly or indirectly to its tourism development. The visitors can be distinguished into three groups—those from the field of military and administration, those involved in scientific studies and those who were engaged in works of music, art and literature. All these three groups had different approaches towards development in the country. The group involved in military and administrative activities was not directly related to the development initiative. However, their work involved a lot of traveling within the region. In their journals and writings, the group brought to light the difficulty in traveling in the region and the need for improving the transportation system there. Also, the scientific visitors wrote journals that described the physical features of Scotland and emphasized its historical heritage, which in turn, attracted more visitors. However, the group that comprised authors, and those involved in the works of art and music, was which made a significant impact on the development of Scotland’s tourism. Their approach was the most dominant and certainly the most effective. The works of renowned authors like Scott, Dickens, Wordsworth, just to name a few, described the country as a place with a romantic appeal. They gave vivid accounts of the scenery, the landscapes, the chivalry of the people and the military expeditions, which helped the country to establish a powerful image as a tourist destination. Not to forget one more group that did much to popularize the country—the absentee landlords and their friends. They engaged in sports like shooting and fishing that also made the country very popular and a coveted tourist destination. However, when more and more people started indulging in these sports, they were called off and Scotland remained a limited small tourist spot. [Butler, Richard. Tartan Mythology. 1998. p. 123-125. The traditional tourist image of Scotland. ] The development approaches resulted in improvement in many areas in the country like better communication and transportation facilities, better accommodation arrangements for tourists and the preserving of its natural heritage and culture, the established image of the country. The biggest strength of the development approach in Scotland is the realization that the tourists consider the natural heritage of the country as genuine and they are attracted to it because of its originality, unlike other places that are meretriciously ornamented. Only Development of tourism in Scotland 3 those who tried to fiddle with the traditional image of Scotland and try to portray it modernly reflect a weak approach towards its development. [Butler, Richard. Tartan Mythology. 1998. p. 132-135. The traditional tourist image of Scotland. Yes, the rising participation in adventure activities like skiing and wearing the highland dress, along with the popularity of golf rising significantly, reflect acknowledging of policies to sustain its image. If I were to manage its development, I too would go in for preserving its natural heritage so that visitors could get a real taste of the place. After all, tourists do come to have a bite of the place they visit and their nothing like getting a real taste of it! Reference citations Chapter 7: Butler, Richard: Tartan Mythology. 1998. The traditional tourist image of Scotland, p122-139.

Homework Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 36

Homework - Essay Example In the ensuing years, beginning 2010, the economy started to pick up, as the firms that had closed down during the financial crisis resumed and people were slowly but surely getting back their jobs. As early as 2013, the fight against the fiscal cliff was almost concluded and every other macroeconomic element looked to be back in their right shape. Since the end of the credit crunch, the US has enjoyed years of uninterrupted economic gains. Unemployment has significantly reduced, as well as the inflation rate. However, much as things have been improving, economists argue that the pace is a bit slower than the one that was witnessed in the wake of World War II. Statistically speaking, the US economic growth rate has averaged about 2.25% since it started bouncing back from the effects of the 2008/9 credit crunch. In 2014, the growth rate was thought to have gone below 1%, and unemployment hasn’t reduced to desired levels (Recession and Recovery, 2014). The dragging growth rather is mainly attributed to the budget problems. The fiscal cliff did not do enough to reduce the budget deficit which was almost $0.98 trillion in 2014. In the years preceding the global financial crisis, the United States economy was growing at a rate of about 3.25% and the budget deficit was as low as $0.5 trillion. As it stands currently, the budget deficit needs to be cut by about $0.3 trillion for the economy to be said to be recovering at a good pace. Unemployment: For four years since 2009, the unemployment statistics in the US had been coming down at a slow but a steady pace. For instance, by the start of 2014, about 160 jobs opportunities had been created and the unemployment rate stood at 7.7%. Taxes: The fiscal cliff debates were mostly about raising taxes for the rich, but it emerges that most of the middle-class Americans part with an additional $600-1200 annually. This is mainly attributable to the expiration of the payroll

Communication in business Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 1

Communication in business - Essay Example In economic pursuit, we aim at promoting environmental sustainability.3 Our business is based on a solid philosophy of equal employment opportunities and fostering environmental sustainability through green manufacturing processes. ... n employment or occupation occurs when a potential employee is treated negatively or differently due to his characteristics that are not relevant or inherent for successful performance of the job. Commonly characteristics that employees are mainly discriminated against include race, color, age, sex, gender, political inclination, ethnicity, religion and nationality. We at Hyundai Motors have since extended these characteristics to include sexual orientation, disability and diseases such as HIV/AIDS. Discrimination in employment matters has been witnessed in areas such as recruitment, job allocations, promotions, and performance evaluations, security of tenure, compensation and termination of employment. Hyundai Motors prohibits all manners of employment discrimination, whether direct or indirect discrimination, by ensuring all employees and potential candidates are accorded equal opportunities regardless of their personal characteristics. Discrimination in employment matters infringe s the fundamental human right of equal access to employment and humane treatment in the workplace.7 Principle 8 Initiatives to promote greater environmental sustainability Benefits and implications Hyundai Motors engages in clean manufacturing processes that limit environmental pollution. According to Global Compact principle 8, business organizations undertake measures to promote environmental sustainability.8 According to the Rio Declaration, business organisations have the responsibility of ensuring their activities do not degrade the environment or cause pollution. The immediate communities expect the business organisations to actively participate in environmental conservation initiatives. All business organisations should work closely with the major stakeholders like suppliers in order

Demonstrate how people draw on social representations in making sense Essay

Demonstrate how people draw on social representations in making sense of their career trajectories. Draw on theoretical and empirical work in your response - Essay Example tremendous impact from these social representations, such as the need to conform and identify with similar groups of people, to act within the context of rule systems, and to be shaped by human relationships in our decisions. Occupational pursuits structure a large part of people’s daily social relations. How, then, does one come to choose the path of one’s career? In this paper, we will explore this very question, using the concepts of social representation and examples drawn specifically from an interview conducted with Bryony, a 19-year-old second year university student (see Appendix for interview transcript). systems of values, ideas and practices with a two-fold function; first, to establish an order which will enable individuals to orientate themselves in their material and social world and to master it; secondly, to enable communication to take place amongst members of a community by providing them with a code for social exchange and a code for naming and classifying unambiguously the various aspects of their world and their individual and group history. (Foreword) A social representation, then, is a kind of social knowledge which is shared by individuals through communication. It is practical in the sense that it is aimed at mastering real problems and issues, and is situated within unmistakable contexts faced by different groups of people in different positions. The manner in which one happens to be living ultimately directs the extent along which identities and relations unfold, and essentially defines social representation. Moscovici argues that there is a connection between the self-directed individual’s choices and his notions of the family, institutions, and professional categories, which determines possibilities for action, and eventually the destiny of each individual as well as society as a whole (International Balzan Foundation, 2006). Individuals essentially organize their experiences in the social realm, in situational dynamics

Consumer Ethnocentrism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Consumer Ethnocentrism - Essay Example On the other hand, the skepticism shown for the foreign goods in America has persuaded social scientists and researchers to conduct in-depth studies to evaluate and gauge the effect of the ethnocentric behavior of consumers. Efforts are made to summarize the gist of the six articles by eminent social scientists, dealing with this very issue and are included in the bibliography.  Consumer ethnocentrism is defined as a tendency of the natives to prefer their own goods and services, motivated by strong patriotism and fear of economic pitfalls in adopting foreign-made goods and services. Though coined in 1906 by Sumner, it became much popular when Shimp, a social scientist and professor in University of Carolina, undertook extensive studies to observe consumer behaviour in this regard. His results startled many because though it showed overwhelming inclination towards consumer ethnocentrism but the class and education pattern did have significant impact. Economically low segment of soc iety and people with temporary employment and also where there was acute competitiveness, people became more ethnocentric. CETSCALE developed by him became a measurement ‘to measure consumers ethnocentric Tendencies related to purchasing foreign- versus American-made products’ (Shimp and Sharma).  Richard Netemeyer along with his associates, tried to use CETSCALE at cross national perspectives and with multinational samples and found that ‘most of the correlations of the CETSCALE with attitudinal, belief, and ranking variables are significant and, importantly, the pattern of correlations is consistent across each countrys sample, providing evidence of nomological validity’ {Cronbach and Meehl 1955). This was a very positive aspect since the trends in global trade is fast changing towards inter-dependies and mutual cooperation.  Kucukemiroglu, Professor in College of Business Administration,  

Hypertension (high blood pressure) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Hypertension (high blood pressure) - Essay Example Blood pressure below 120/80 mm Hg is considered as a normal blood pressure. But, some medical experts claim 115/75 mm Hg as a more stable blood pressure level (Luehr et al., 2012, p. 15). Prehypertension, stage 1 hypertension, and stage 2 hypertension are three major hypertension stages. Prehypertension consists of a systolic pressure in the range of 120 to 139 mm Hg or a diastolic pressure in the range of 80 to 89 mm Hg. Stage 1 hypertension and stage 2 hypertension have a systolic pressure in the range of 140 to 159 mm Hg and 160 mm Hg or greater respectively or a diastolic pressure in the range of 90 to 99 mm Hg and 100 mm Hg or greater respectively (Luehr et al., 2012, p. 15). It is not possible to diagnose hypertension on the basis of one blood pressure reading as blood pressure varies several times in a day depending on activities, surroundings, age, and gender. Hence, doctors keep the patient on an observation and check the blood pressure at intervals for several times to diagnose it. Patients are required to avoid smoking, physical exercise, or drinking energetic beverages (especially with caffeine) for at least 30-40 minutes before the blood pressure readings (Simon & Zieve, 2013). As often during the clinical testing, patients are in stress, doctors ask the patients to measure their blood pressure at home too. Usually, doctors recommend the use of specific ambulatory monitoring equipment that measures blood pressure about every 20-30 minutes during the 24-hours period and gives appropriate readings to help the doctors to diagnose the hypertension in patients (Simon & Zieve, 2013). Based on the clinical and home readings of blood pressure at several times a day for period of time and medical history of patient, doctors diagnose the hypertension condition in the patient (Simon & Zieve, 2013). In order to formally diagnose the hypertension, there are various tests which are required to perform.

Business Planning and Forecasting Research Paper

Business Planning and Forecasting - Research Paper Example 2008 48 51 21 34 i. Scatter Diagram: As the data describes sales for each season for a particular year, with no sign of any multiplicative or exponential jump, therefore the additive model should be used to analyze the data. The main reason is the progression, which is quite straight-forward, as compared to multiplicative plotting, which is more exponential, with later figures of comparatively much higher values. ii. Moving Average for Calculation of Trend: For the calculation of moving averages, the process is done in a way such that each season's moving average has been calculated with the data provided of the past 3 years. The moving averages for each season are as follows. iii. Seasonal Indices: Year Quarter Original Values(Y) 4 Figures Moving Total 4 Figures Moving Average 2 Figures Moving Total 2 Figures Moving Average(T) Ratio-to-Moving Average(%)(Y)/ (T)*100 (Seasonal Indices) 2006 1 46 2 53 3 18 4 33 150 37.5 2007 1 52 156 39 76.5 38.25 47.05882353 2 47 150 37.5 76.5 38.25 86.2745098 3 20 152 38 75.5 37.75 137.7483444 4 39 158 39.5 77.5 38.75 121.2903226 2008 1 48 154 38.5 78 39 51.28205128 2 51 158 39.5 78 39 100 3 21 159 39.75 79.25 39.625 121.1356467 4 34 154 38.5 78.25 39.125 130.3514377 iv. Trend Extension: The trend for 2009 is calculated by first formulating a regression formula for the new values using the given data. The methodology used is the Method of Least Squares, as follows: Quarter(X) Original...The main reason is the progression, which is quite straight-forward, as compared to multiplicative plotting, which is more exponential, with later figures of comparatively much higher values. For the calculation of moving averages, the process is done in a way such that each season's moving average has been calculated with the data provided of the past 3 years. The moving averages for each season are as follows. The initial scatter plot suggested that the autumn sales are the lowest of all the seasons. Also when we calculated the moving averages the result came that the seasonal variations in sales are smothered in the overall run. On this base the new sales figures for 2009 were calculated which were as given above. When the real values of the sales of the three brothers are seen and compared, taking one year at a time, then its is observed that when we take 2006 as a base year, we find that the sales figures for Dick was higher than his two brothers'. Also Rick's sales were better than Mick's, although the actual figures are lower. Mick's sales real values have been going continuously down, while those of Rick's have gone down only in 2008. For Dick, the real value of sales has been going up continuously.

Individual Project Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Individual Project - Assignment Example 2 Introduction   We have selected a small restaurant that provides food for the locals, the name of the restaurant is the â€Å"Raymond Cafe†. It offers many special kinds of coffees, tea, home-based sandwiches, soups, salads and continental dishes. Over the last five years, business has been dilapidated steadily. The cafe is not operated in the capacity of current technology trends and procedures. There are no computing devices in the cafe which may enhance the cafe operations and procedures. The information of the customers and orders is stored manually. The clientele and food recipes are also not written anywhere. The supply chain management is manually recorded in a notepad along with the salaries of all staff of the cafe. Information regarding the marketing coupons is also stored in the notepad. 3 Competitive Advantage   The analysis related to competitors in the area needs to be carefully analyzed before setting up a strategic plan. The competitive advantage is the c onclusion of the unique strategy of the cafe which cannot be adopted by the competitors. The unique strategy includes customer loyalty at its best which also a vital element for a successful business. An easy definition of Competitive advantage is â€Å"when the firm has the capacity to differentiate from its rivals, when it is able to create more economic value than competing firms† (Lowe, 2013). For entering â€Å"Raymond Cafe† in a new demanding industry, Michael Porter’s five forces model will assist the evaluation of the challenges. The model will assist to conclude the relative attractiveness of an industry. In Fig 1.1 Michael Porter’s five forces model is illustrated. The threat of new entrants, suppliers, buyers and substitutes is directly impacting on the centralized hub which is the rivalry among existing competitors. These are many restaurants in the city which offers the same range of products and prices. There are also rumors that Starbucks i s opening soon just a few blocks away from the cafe. The staff of the cafe is worried on the current operations of the cafe which they think are incompetent. The staff needs a motivation in terms of technology which assures that the competition will not influence the business and customers. Segmenting the competitive advantage on Porter’s Five-Force analysis, the buying power needs to be overcome. A strategy is required to address the concerns of the employees. Customer loyalty programs are required for enhancing customer satisfaction and experience at the Raymond Cafe. For an efficient customer loyalty programs, integration of Information technology is essential to track and inform the customers about the new products and prices on the Internet. Customer loyalty programs are the most popular marketing strategies adopted by organizations across a variety of industries. Programs that are alleged positively by customers will in turn create strong mind-set of customer loyalty an d higher customer revenue (Furinto, Pawitra, & Balqiah, 2009). The cafe should offer a unique menu which other cafes do not offer enabling the alcove dining experience that can only be purchased at the cafe. The existing cafe has a small Supplier

England Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

England - Assignment Example Players in the industry had to put forward drastic measures by the engagement of massive discounts so as to support the relatively threatened customer base especially due to the global economic meltdown which had its effects in the UK by the end of 2009.It has been reported that the global shipments of the products have been growing by 4% annually supported majorly by the imports from the US ,Japan and South Africa .The Japanese market has been stabilizing currently making ripple effects in the local market and enabling the increasing stability of the UK market an achievable phenomenon. By January the import of our company stood at 7% and the shipments to foreign branches stood at 3.1 %.The projected sales of champagne in the year 2012 is expected to be 35.5M. Sales is one of the most important components of a business ,however it has to promote responsibility to avoid the long term effects on their brand and to avoid the crumbling of the business. The size of the industry has been growing over the previous years, however it received a major slow down due to the impacts of the global economic recession. Despite the economic troubles facing the globe presently, the sales are stable and relatively high during the festive seasons plus there are new emerging markets within the country offering the champagne business new avenues for major sales. The ports that are used by our company for the importation of our facilities and majorly for our products have to meet the criterion for efficiency and have to be secure .the port has to be versatile ,have diversity of traffic and the charges have to be competitive and realistic for the business venture of our type to avoid extra input into the system. The company has been using the Bristol port for a very long time for its shipping duties since it is meeting the standards put by the management and the stakeholders in the company. Our

Same-Sex Marriage Essay Example for Free

Same-Sex Marriage Essay The issue over same-sex marriage has come into the limelight beginning 1993 when the Supreme Court in Hawaii favored the issue and ruled that rejecting a union of two people from the same gender is not constitutional. The matter became highly controversial as some states made rulings allowing same-sex unions, while others do not based on religious doctrines and arguments. Marriage is an integral part of society and the nation as a whole. Marriage creates a family, which is considered to be the basic unit of society. Parents rear their children to be positive contributors as they grow up and take more active roles. Without the families, the nations social fabric will weaken, and in turn, every other institution will also be affected. The benefits of the union affects the community in many ways. For instance, marriage establishes the paternity of a child, making it easy to assert about child support. Marriage also prevents conflicts regarding relationships. These are just two benefits of the union that the government sees and recognizes. Because of its impact to society, marriage has come to be defined and regulated by laws, both religious and governmental. The federal and state governments, to promote stability and order, not only have the right to define marriage. It is, in fact, their duty to create laws that define marriage in relation to what society dictates. In Massachusetts, for example, its Supreme Court sees the need to legalize and constitutionalized same-sex marriage. This decision was based not on personal views but on intrepretation of the states laws. In other states, rulings were issued liberalizing marriage, but not entirely making it constitutional. However, many states have amended the definition of marriage as the union between a man and a woman. Those against it sees same-sex unions as a factor that would not be good for their states. Work Cited The U. S. Constitution Online. Contitutional Topic: Marriage. 19 April 2008 http://www. usconstitution. net/consttop_marr. html

Concepts of Accounting for Goodwill | Literature Review

Concepts of Accounting for Goodwill | Literature Review Accounting Goodwill Treatment Introduction Arnold, J., Egginton, D., Kirkham, L., Macve, R. and Peasnell, K., ‘Theoretical Considerations’, in Goodwill and Other Intangibles, The Research Board, London, pp3-18. According to the authors, financial reporting of goodwill has assumed importance just recently. In its earlier definition goodwill just meant customer loyalty. They attribute two main reasons for the increase in goodwill’s importance. First is the increase in merger and acquisition (MA) activities in the market and second is the rising stock market. This has created a wide gap between the book value and market value and also between the fair value and paid value of assets of a firm. As a result, the increasing importance of recognition, valuing and accounting of goodwill was widely felt. Definition Catlett, G. and Olson, N. 1968, ‘Accounting Research Study no 10’, Accounting for Goodwill, American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, New York, pp.1-21. The authors have taken Accounting Research Study no.5 by the Accounting Principles Board as a base for their study on Accounting for Goodwill. In their study, they say that the definition of goodwill has evolved and changed over time to reflect the true picture of its nature. Goodwill is difficult to measure and its accounting treatment is also very controversial. They have included the definition of goodwill from the Webster’s Third New International Dictionary. It defines goodwill as ‘the capitalized value of the excess of estimated future profits of a business over the rate of return on capital considered normal in the related industry’. In general, goodwill is a result of good reputation of the firm in the market. Superior quality goods and customer service, integrity and efficiency of management, good employee relations and many other factors helps a company earn goodwill. Nowadays, technological advantages, efficient manufacturing process, ability to raise finance also assume great importance. The earning power of goodwill is the most relevant concept as of today. Different Concepts Gynther, R. 1969, [Abstract of ‘Some â€Å"Conceptualizing† on Goodwill’, The Accounting Review, vol. 44, no. 2, pp.247-255], [Electronic], Available: JSTOR [2007, Nov 11]. Gynther has cited two main concepts of goodwill, the ‘residuum concept’ and the ‘future excess profits concept’. Under the residuum concept, goodwill is measured as a difference between purchase price and book value of a company’s assets. Goodwill is the residual value after taking into account all the tangible and identifiable intangible assets. According to future excess profits concept, goodwill is the present value of all the excess profits expected in the future, over and above the normal/average profits in the industry. It is difficult to measure goodwill using this concept as there is no certainty of the future profits. Nature and Characteristics Arnold, J., Egginton D., Kirkham, L., Macve, R. and Peasnell, K., ‘Theoretical Considerations’, in Goodwill and Other Intangibles, The Research Board, London, pp.18. Goodwill can be of two types. Goodwill can either be internally generated or purchased. Goodwill is said to be internally generated when a firm earns super profits. On the other hand, purchased goodwill is a result of merger and acquisition activities. However, goodwill is accounted only when a business is purchased or sold. Internally generated goodwill cannot be accounted otherwise. Catlett, G. and Olson, N. 1968, ‘Accounting Research Study no 10’, Accounting for Goodwill, American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, New York, pp.20-21. The value of goodwill cannot be directly attributed to a particular cost. Goodwill is sometimes created due to favorable conditions and certain other factors, and sometimes even without any efforts by a company. The value of goodwill is directly attached to a business. It cannot be separated and sold differently. Several factors can affect the value of goodwill. As such, the value of goodwill may rise or fall due to changes in those factors. The investors’ perception reflected in the stock prices forms the base for calculating goodwill. Treatments of goodwill Non-purchased goodwill Walker, G. T. 1938, [Abstract of ‘Non-purchased Goodwill’, The Accounting Review, Vol. 13, No. 3. pp. 253-259], [Electronic], Available: JSTOR Arts and Sciences 4 [2007, Nov 11]. In this paper Walker argued that almost all the accountants agree that non-purchased goodwill should not be recognized in account. â€Å"They are fully aware that goodwill created by a concern is just as valuable and in most instances, more valuable- to that concern than to the firm which might make a specific purchase of that goodwill†. Montgomery has pointed out this view in his Financial Handbook that goodwill may have economic value even without being purchased by another entity. But it was considered to be bad practice to record goodwill on the books since many frauds happened in the early days, when the term goodwill was freely used. Seetharaman, A., Balachandra, M. and Saravanan, A.S. 2004, [Abstract of ‘Accounting treatment of goodwill: yesterday, today and tomorrow: Problems and prospects in the international perspective’, Journal of Intellectual Capital, Vol. 5, Iss. 1, pp. 131-153], [Electronic], Available: Proquest ABI/INFORM [2007, Nov 11]. Seetharaman also argued in the article that only purchased goodwill is acknowledged for accounting purpose. Although, in reality, with the development of the relationship with suppliers, customers and the work force, all the business generate internal goodwill as they grow. But it seems that no attempt was made to account for non-purchased goodwill. Lee (2004) gave the reasons why there is no accounting for non-purchase goodwill: (1) The accountants adopt conservative view, together with the fear that internally generated goodwill may turn out to be a fictitious asset in order to make the balance sheet look better. (2) Certain accounting rules such as historical cost, objectivity and verifiability are extremely difficult to apply in accounting for non-purchased goodwill in practice. (3) It is difficult to revalue non-purchased goodwill annually. Some assumptions have been made to carry out the test, such as the estimation of future profits and of what should be a reasonable rate of return for a particular business. (4) The business costs which attribute to the value of goodwill are difficult to measure. For instance, it is difficult to bifurcate which part of the cost of RD or advertising expenditure contributed to the sales that in turn generated goodwill. Purchased goodwill 1. Immediately write off For: Hughes, H, P. 1982, ‘Goodwill in Accounting: A History of the Issues and Problems’, United States of America. Under this method, goodwill is immediately written off against an account in the equity part, generally retained earnings. Hughes presented in this book that the fundamental concern about immediately write off treatment is that goodwill was not an asset. Spacek expressed the view that the total expenditure of buying an entity or business over the fair value of the company is â€Å"a cost to the buyer of earning over and above the cost of the assets required to produce those earnings†. And Spacek points out that goodwill may generate future economic benefits, but those benefits are not secured (Cited in Hughes, 1982). Massoud, F. 2003, [Abstract of ‘Accounting for goodwill: Are we better off?’] Review of Business,Vol.24, Iss.2, p.26], [Electronic],Available: Proquest ABI/INFORM [2007, Nov 11] Spacek’s view is supported by the idea that goodwill is neither something that can be really used, nor it can produce earnings. But, it represented the investors’ appraisals of earnings or expectations of earnings. In such case, goodwill carried a risk of facing wide fluctuations which related to the investors’ decision. Therefore, the value of goodwill has no reliable or continuing relation to costs incurred in its creation, its purchase or its maintenance.

Stoma Care Reflection

Stoma Care Reflection This is a reflective account of teaching a patient stoma care, using Gibbs Reflective Cycle (1988). By conceptualising the reflective cycle as commencing with a description of an event and ending with the development of an action plan, this model facilitates experiential learning. The model is praised for its focus on learning from experience rather than attempting to change experience (Rolfe et al., 2001). It also increases commitment to learning via the development of an action plan. The following components of Gibbs model will form the structure of this reflective account: description; feelings; evaluation; analysis; conclusion; and action plan. Description The teaching took place on a male surgical ward that specialises in bowel surgery. The patient, Tom, whose real name will remain anonymous in respect of confidentiality (NMC Code, 2008; NHS Confidentiality Code of Practice, DH 2003), was admitted for surgery for colorectal cancer. Tom would be provided with a temporary transverse colostomy post-surgery, which would require the learning of new skills in order for him to manage his own care needs once discharged from hospital. Being patient-centred (Pelzang, 2010), I introduced myself to Tom and asked his permission to go through some information with him, explaining that the aim was to prepare him for managing his colostomy after surgery. The four steps to teaching colostomy care, as offered by Tolch (1997), were then implemented. These four steps comprised devising a teaching plan, assessing and documenting progress, encouraging participation, and anticipating problems. Using sample equipment, I talked Tom through the procedure, step by step, with pauses to confirm his understanding or answer any questions. At first, all necessary equipment was assembled, including a stoma bag, scissors, disposal sack, soap, warm tap water, dry disposable wipes, and stoma sizing template. I discussed the equipment with Tom before showing him how to empty the pouch whilst ensuring no spillage and maintaining hygiene. Pictures were used, where appropriate, to show Tom how the peristomal skin needs to be cleaned with moistened gauze and repeated several times until the skin and stoma are clean. Tom was informed not to be alarmed by small specks of blood on the gauze, explaining that this is normal and can occur each time the stoma is cleaned due to the small blood capillaries on the stomal surface being very delicate. Teaching Tom the basics of how to empty, clean, and change his colostomy was followed by the provision of some information on signs and symptoms of potential problems or complications, such as little or no stools, increased pain, and other signs of infection, etc. It was also necessary to teach Tom how to deal with problems that might arise after hospital discharge, such as a leakage. I also provided a contact list for colostomy supplies, along with details of the Colostomy Association, which provides telephone support and written information for patients. I encouraged Tom to maintain contact with the organisation and to access it as much as he needed. This would facilitate his transition from hospital to home, which can be a stressful time for patients with a newly formed stoma (Fulham, 2008). Finally, a post-surgery teaching plan was devised collaboratively to provide reassurance that Tom would still be receiving help with developing his self-management skills once the colostomy was fitted. Feelings Initially, I was apprehensive about handling such a personal and sensitive topic with a patient, especially since I was aware that adjusting to a stoma can be both physically and psychologically challenging to the patient. I did not want to do or say anything that would in any way hinder this adjustment. I was particularly anxious of ensuring that I demonstrated that a colostomy can be self-managed effectively, whilst at the same time not being seen as dismissing any of Toms own concerns or anxieties. I could sense that Tom was anxious, which reminded me that this was more difficult for him and thus I needed to be calm and confident in order to facilitate the learning process and relieve any of Toms own stresses. I am confident that I managed to achieve this as Tom became much more relaxed as the session progressed, asking more questions and becoming more involved. I am disappointed, however, that my practice was influenced by assumptions. For example, I had not realised the importance of offering the patient the opportunity to have a family member or carer involved in the teaching process (Turnball, 2010). Assuming that the procedure being taught was so personal that the patient would not want anyone else involved in learning how to change their colostomy, I prevented Tom and his family members from having the opportunity to be more involved. Their involvement, if desired, might have been a useful process and, indeed, it would have ensured a level of consistent support on discharge from the hospital. Mezirow (1981) describes this reflection as a perspective transformation on reading the literature after a few teaching sessions with Tom, I realised that my belief system had influenced the way in which I taught Tom. Evaluation The pre-surgery teaching sessions have been successful and Tom has shown continued understanding of the implications of having a colostomy that needs regular changing. Indeed, during the last teaching session Tom took the role of teacher and showed me how to change a colostomy. He is still, understandably, nervous about when the time comes for him to do this on a regular basis, but has been reassured that he wont be expected to be completely independent post-surgery. It is likely that myself or a colleague will initially change the colostomy so that Tom can observe the procedure before gradually becoming more involved. I am aware that during this period I will need to be mindful not to show any signs of distaste when changing the colostomy as patients adjustment can be severely impacted by this (Armstrong, 2001). Indeed, I communicated sensitively at all times and was mindful of enabling Tom to be fully engage in the care process, as recommended by the Department of Health expert patient approach to health management (DH, 2001), as well as the Health Foundations co-creating health initiatives (Collins and Grazin, 2008). This appeared effective in developing a partnership with Tom so that we could work together in developing his skills to manage his colostomy. I found Toms engagement with the whole process very rewarding as it gave me much deeper insight into the needs of men preparing for a colostomy, which helped me to move beyond the basic teaching skills of changing a colostomy to a more tailored approach to teaching that addressed Toms specific needs. He was particularly concerned about the dietary implications of the colostomy and whether this would impact his social activities. My knowledge regarding the dietary aspects of colostomy care is basic and thus I was not prepared to adequately answer all of Toms questions. I did, however, provide him with an information leaflet covering such matters and told him that if he had any further questions I could find someone he could talk to. Significant psychological symptoms, such as depression and anxiety, have been reported in 20% of patients with a stoma (White, 1997). Psychological morbidity is often the result of problems coming to terms with changes in body image and altered patterns of bowel elimination. For psychological adjustment to occur, it was fundamental for me to empathise with Tom whilst also reassuring him that there should be no need to impose any long-term dietary restrictions. Food is often a great source of concern for patients and on researching the literature and talking to colleagues I am now aware of the wealth of information and advice available for patients (Persson et al., 2005). A significant challenge during the teaching process was that Tom was trying to adjust to a cancer diagnosis whilst at the same time trying to adjust to the lifestyle changes introduced by a colostomy. However, providing Tom with the skills to manage his own stoma is likely, according to the evidence, to facilitate psychological adjustment by providing a sense of control that would have previously been lost when first diagnosed (Bekkers et al., 1996). Indeed, studies have shown that increases in a patients feelings of control, which are enhanced when the patient has the appropriate set of skills to manage the situation, can be fundamental in adjusting to having a colostomy (McVey, Madill, and Fielding, 2001). Models of self-management also indicate that increasing a patients self-efficacy (confidence) to self-manage has a number of positive physical and psychological outcomes (Simmons et al., 2007). There are some skills not demonstrated within the described teaching sessions, but which would have been present if I had been teaching Tom post-operatively. For example, it will be important for me to adopt infection control precautions by wearing disposable gloves and apron (Rust, 2007). At the same time, it will be important that I explain the rationale for this to Tom so that he doesnt feel stigmatised. In preparation for this, I have made Tom aware of this pre-surgery. Analysis The teaching style adopted was based on social learning theory, which included assessing Toms readiness and ability to take an active role in learning about managing the stoma. On talking to Tom and seeing that he was keen to learn and become independent in taking care of the stoma, a teaching plan was devised. This was to be followed with the implementation of the teaching plan and then an evaluation of the process and outcome, in line with the structured approach to teaching recommended by OConnor (2005). Furthermore, patient goals were set for post-surgery stoma care in order to help Tom progress towards achieving independence (Rust, 2007). In devising the teaching plan, it was important to consider the type of colostomy Tom would be fitted with. In this case, it was a temporary transverse colostomy that would need emptying several times a day due to the elimination of soft stools. If Tom had a sigmoid colostomy, his stools would be firmer and less frequent, requiring less time and effort in management of the stoma. Kember et al. (1999) have found that students can be categorised as non-reflectors (i.e. lack evidence of deliberate appraisal), reflectors (i.e. demonstrate insight through analysis, discrimination, and evaluation), and critical reflectors (i.e. indicate a transformation from initial perspective). This reflective account has highlighted that I am a reflector and that, indeed, I tend to reflect during as well as after an event. In this case, this has enabled me to identify my professional strengths and weaknesses. Identifying my strengths has increased my self-confidence in providing care and support within this area of healthcare. It has also enabled me to identify where further professional development is needed so that I can continue to hone the skills necessary to provide high quality patient care. I agree with Pierson (1998) that reflection is a technique and a purposeful inter-subjective process, as well as with Heideggerians (1966) notion that reflection is the integration of calculative and contemplative thinking. It is a technique and resource that I shall continue to develop both professionally and personally. Conclusion As many as approximately 15,000 people in the UK undergo stoma surgery in the UK (White, 1998). Adapting to a stoma and its daily management can take time and thus teaching these patients the practical skills necessary for stoma care needs to ideally commence as soon as possible, preferably pre-surgery. Indeed, teaching needs to be conducted in a planned, organised manner, in collaboration with the patient and based on their own readiness and ability to learn about stoma care. Taking this organised approach ensures that no vital aspects of care are omitted and that the patient and healthcare provider are working towards mutually agreed goals. The psychological implications of adjusting to a colostomy must not be underestimated or overshadowed by the need for practical skills in stoma care to be taught. Instead, teaching practical skills can be viewed as another component of psychological care since psychological adjustment can be affected if patients feel that they do not have sufficient knowledge and skills to change their colostomy or deal with any problems that might arise post-discharge (Metcalf, 2001). Action Plan Clause 3 of the UKCC Code of Professional Conduct (1992) states that nurses must maintain and improve her professional knowledge and competence. In relation to my professional knowledge and competence in teaching patients colostomy care, it is essential that I take steps towards continued professional development in terms of enhancing my knowledge surrounding the dietary needs of people with a colostomy. I have begun to meet this action plan by accessing nutritional advice from the Colostomy Association, but will endeavour to examine evidence-based practice in the provision of dietary advice for patients with a new stoma. I would also like to learn some specific skills for increasing self-efficacy that I can integrate into my teaching approach. I have acquired greater insight into the importance of patient confidence in self-management. There is a wealth of evidence available for the importance of promoting self-efficacy and I intend to start increasing my knowledge in this area by reading a comprehensive systematic review on self-management programmes for cancer survivors (Davies and Batehup, 2010). In addition, intend to rectify my assumptive actions surrounding the involvement of Toms family in the education process. During our next teaching session, I will ask Tom about his feelings regarding having anyone else involved in the teaching, with any expressed wishes being checked with relevant friends and family. In conclusion, using this reflective model has helped me to realise that my learning is a proactive process accompanied by continual reflection that provides insight into areas for further professional development.

Bread Givers :: essays research papers fc

Clashing of Wills Conflict between generations is a common them to many novels. In the novel"Bread Givers", by Anzia Yezierksa, the clashing of wills of two generations is one major theme. We see clashes through culture, generations, community, religion,generations, and many others. The most prominent clash of wills is that of the protagonist Sara with her father Moisha or Reb Smolinsky. Some may say that these two characters clash because of their differences. Others might say that it their similarities that cause the clash between them both. It seems that it is a combination of their similarities and their differences that cause their clash and, in fact, binds them closer than any of the other characters. At the beginning of the novel we learn that Sara’s father has nick named her blood and iron recognizing the fact that she has a strong will. It is Sara’s strong will that causes the most of the conflict with her and her father. Sara gets her strong will and drive from her father. She is not like her sisters who follow the cultural expectations of early marriage, but she, instead, has greater ambition for her life. Sara plans to get an education which is not in her fathers plan for her life. Reb wants Sara to marry like her other sisters, and live a "holy" life according to the Torah. Sara’s will to educate herself, and Reb’s will to have Sara married is what causes the conflict in their relationship. Like Sara’s blood and iron will, Reb also is driven for his daughters to live their life according to the Torah. It is the strong will of these two characters that cause their connection. While Reb is bound to the laws and traditions of the Torah, Sara is bound to the drive to be educated or make herself a better, more successful person. One incident that exemplifies the strong will of both these characters is found at the beginning of the novel. The rent collector for the landlord comes to the apartment to collect rent, but Reb does not have the money. The two argue and Reb finally hits the collector, who is Jewish, and shouts, "I’ll teach you respect for the Holy Torah" (p. 18). Reb is then taken off to jail for assault. Then Sara decides since none of her sisters are bringing in enough money, that she would go out and make some.

The Theme of Prejudice in To Kill A Mockingbird :: Kill Mockingbird essays

   The theme of prejudice in To Kill A Mockingbird is much more than just a case of black and white. The entire novel is about prejudice in its' many forms, the most prominent case of prejudice is the hate between the blacks and whites. The whole town of Maycomb is based on stereotypes of it's inhabitants, that are passed down from generation to generation. Rumors run rampid and very little truth is usually in them.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   "So Jem received most of his information from Miss Stephanie Crawford,   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   a neighbor scold, she said she knew the whole thing. According to   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Miss Stephanie, Boo was sitting in the livingroom cutting some   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   items from The Maycomb Tribune to paste in his scrapbook. His father   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   entered the room. As Mr.Radley passed by, Boo drove the scissors   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   into his   parent's leg, pulled them out, wiped them on his pants,   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   and resumed his activities."   (Chapter 1, page 11)   Ã‚   I don't see how you can't expect to have prejudice in a small town like that, after all isolation is a major factor in why prejudice and racism arise.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   "Men hate each other because they fear each other,   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   and they   fear each other because   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  they don't know each other,   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   and they don't know each other because   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   they are often separated from each other. "   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   -Martin Luther King   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The stereotypes in this novel are fairly common but the fact that they are accepted and used so openly in public is what astonishes me. I think people in the community, even if they do disagree with what is being said or done, they will say or do nothing because they are afraid of going against the majority of the community and become a victim of prejudice themselves. Atticus was one of the few who actually stopped and listened to himself without being biased by the views and opinions of the rest of the town. He then had the courage to stand up and take prejudice himself for trying to correct the prejudice against a black man, and prove his innocence.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   "Scout, you aren't old enough to understand some things yet, but   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   there's been some high talk around town to the effect that I

Entire Course Essay

PSY 103 Week 1 Origins of Psychology and Research Methods Worksheet PSY 103 Week 2 Learning Experience PSY 103 Week 3 Bipolar Disorder Outline PSY 103 Week 3 Remembering, Feeling, and Thinking Worksheet PSY 103 Week 4 Lifespan Development and Personality PSY 103 Week 5 Influences on Behavior and Psychological Disorders Presentation Your second year of college is the perfect time to join the SGA (Student Government Association). As a freshman, you will not have enough experience to make a difference as a member of the student government. Instead, spend your freshman year developing your political stance and figuring out how your school’s government runs. In this document of PSY 103 Entire Course you will find the next files: PSY 103 Bipolar Disorder Outline.doc PSY 103 Bipolar Disorder.ppt PSY 103 Learning Experience paper week 2 Psychology class.doc PSY 103 Learning Experience-Z.doc PSY 103 Learning Experience.doc PSY 103 Lifespan Development and Personality.doc PSY 103 Origins of Psychology and Research Methods Worksheet.doc PSY 103 Remembering, Feeling, and Thinking Worksheet.doc Psychology – General Psychology PSY 103 Week 1 Origins of Psychology and Research Methods Worksheet PSY 103 Week 2 Learning Experience PSY 103 Week 3 Bipolar Disorder Outline PSY 103 Week 3 Remembering, Feeling, and Thinking Worksheet †¦ To download this tutorial follow the link – https://bitly.com/1oJK58F Your second year of college is the perfect time to join the SGA (Student Government Association). As a freshman, you will not have enough experience to make a difference as a member of the student government. Instead, spend your freshman year developing your political stance and figuring out how your school’s government runs. Psychology – General Psychology PSY 103 Week 1 Origins of Psychology and Research Methods Worksheet PSY 103 Week 2 Learning Experience PSY 103 Week 3 Bipolar Disorder Outline PSY 103 Week 3 Remembering, Feeling, and Thinking Worksheet PSY 103 Week 4 Lifespan Development and Personality PSY 103 Week 5 Influences on Behavior and Psychological Disorders Presentation