Middle School Ministry Made Easy: Book Review Essay

Author Information Kurt Johnston has been serving in junior high ministry since 1988. (Simply Youth Ministry n. d. ) Currently, he oversees all of student ministries and is hands on in junior high ministry at Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, CA. (Oestreicher 2011) Kurt also likes encouraging junior high youth workers and has written books and created resources with that goal in mind. (Simply Youth Ministry n. d. ) The growing list of books Kurt has written include such titles as, The 9:Best Practices for Youth Ministry, and 10-Minute Moments: Smart Stuff – Exploring Proverbs 10 Minutes at a  Time. Kurt has partnered with other experts in the field of student ministry like Mark Oestreicher – President of Youth Specialties, (Oestreicher 2011) Scott Rubin -Director of Elevate, the junior high ministry at Willow Creek Community Church, (Simply Youth Ministry n. d. ) and Katie Edwards – Junior High Director at Saddleback Church, (Doug Fields 2011) to produce resources for those in student ministry such as The Middle School Survival Series, Kurt & Scott’s Junior High Adventure, Amigos, 99 Thoughs About Girls: For Guys’ Eyes Only, and 99 Thoughts about Guys: For Girls’ Eyes Only. Kurt’s experience and expertise in student ministry is accessable at all times through a network of websites such as simplyyouthministry. com, youthministry. com, and juniorhighministry. com. Kurt authors a subscription based email newsletter that claims to be, â€Å"Almost daily deas, thoughts, & insights for your youth ministry,† and has proven to be beneficial to my minsitry. Content Summary The main idea of Middle School Ministry Made Simple is stated on the back cover of the 4 book. It says, â€Å"You don’t have to be an expert to minister to middle schoolers. † The pages  Johnston’s book are filled with practices and strategies that could be tremendously useful in a middle school ministry setting. The tools that Johnston shares are based on twenty-three years of ministry experience, and have the personal stories of success and failure to offer authenticity and relevance to their use. Throughout the chapters of Middle School Ministry Made Simple, Johnston address issues that those engaged in middle school ministry are certain to face, like recruiting other adults to invest in the lives of teenagers. He emphasizes seeking out leaders who are not only willing to  serve but who are also a good fit for the ministry. Johnston says, â€Å"Having fewer of the right type of junior high leaders is always better than having more of the wrong type. † (Johnston 2008) Other subjects in Johnston’s book address partnership with parents, middle school ministry programming, leading middle schoolers and volunteers, and the importance of a lasting ministry. Johnston emphasizes ministry programming that focuses on the five purposes of the church: evangelism, worship, fellowship, discipleship, and ministry. (Johnston 2008) He also  highlights targeting the five types of junior high students in your area: community, crowd, congregation, committed, and core. (Johnston 2008) The foundation of â€Å"Purpose Driven† ministry and targeting different types of students is the hope that as students are reached, they might progress from the outside of the fellowship, community students, to the inside of the fellowship, core. Johnson touches on some principles of leadership, and shares that his graduate degree is in the very subject. This may be why he has so much to say, and so much insight to share when it  comes to leading, either as the leader of a ministry or as a volunteer within the ministry. He 5 talks about being the leader as â€Å"leading from the front,† and serving as a volunteer as â€Å"leading from the middle. † In both positions, Johnston emphasizes the importance of leaders nurturing their soul or walking closely with the Father, and gives insight into how to lead from varying levels of responsibility. â€Å"Middle school ministry deserves adults who are committed for the long haul,† says Johnston when it comes to perseverance. (Johnston 2008) He offers insight that emphasizes the  lasting impact of remaining in a position of leadership for a long period of time, and shares expert advice on how to make that happen. His words garner tremendous respect, as he has proven that the principles about which he writes must be true by demonstrating incredible endurance in his own ministry. As a result of his ministry experience, Johnston lists in an alphabetical fashion, twenty-six â€Å"tips and tidbits† that he hopes will be helpful to readers who are involved in middle school ministry. Evaluation One of the things I enjoy most about Middle School Ministry Made Simple, is that while  Johnston may arguably be the authority on middle school ministry, he doesn’t claim to have his field figured out. He even shares in the introduction, despite twenty-three years (twenty years upon the book’s publishing) of middle school experience, â€Å"I am not an expert. † This attitude of humility makes his advice in the chapter concerning leadership, in which he advises leaders to â€Å"pass the praise,† as well as the rest of his knowledge, even more authentic. Johnston’s advice on recruiting volunteers is tremendously insightful. I particularly like  the way he contrasted the stereotype of an effective middle school volunteer with the list of seven key qualities he looks for in a potential ministry volunteer. While the other information in this chapter is helpful, the aforementioned comparison is the most valuable in my estimation. I 6 think people do have a stereotype of what a middle school volunteer should look like or how they should act. Unfortunately many outstanding volunteers are missed because they don’t meet expectations, while others are recruited based on faulty ideals who may not be the best for the students or the ministry team. Johnston’s handling of partnership with parents is not the strength of this book. I felt like he treated the issue as a necessary evil, but not an area of ministry focus. He emphasizes that parents are a part of the equation and so we should be involved with them. However I don’t get the impression that Kurt’s idea of partnership with parents is about strengthening the family as the primary disciple makers of students, as much as it is about leveraging their contributions to one’s ministry. The strength of this book is Johnson’s time proven expertise, and ability to convey his  experience in ministry in a way that is helpful to other middle school ministry workers. I believe that this book should be on the shelf of everyone who serves in middle school ministry, regardless of tenure of ministry. Five new things that I have learned from this work that I will apply in my future strategy are: 1. A key part of empowering others is allowing them to make decisions. 2. Develop accountability to encourage longevity. 3. Not every opportunity is a good opportunity for me. Just say no. Three new things I can do today in the area of personal student development are: 1.Develop a presence on the local school campus. 2. Too many rules can be a hindrance. Focus on respect for others. 3. Develop a system of teaching topics that will guide students through middle school/ Some questions this book raised that I would like to discuss in class are: 1. Once a leader is aware that a volunteer is not going to work out, how does one remove 7 him or her from service without damaging the relationship? 2. What is the balance between strengthening the influence of the home and strengthening the programs of the church through student ministry? 8 Bibliography Doug Fields. Katie Edwards is coming to SLC2011. 2011. http://www. dougfields. com/katie-edwards-is-coming-to-slc2011/ (accessed 10 7, 2011). Johnston, Kurt. Middle School Ministry Made Simple. Cincinatti, OH: Standard Publishing, 2008. Oestreicher, Mark. The Youth Cartel. 8 8, 2011. http://whyismarko. com/2011/kurt-johnston-offers-5-reasons-hes-excited-for-the-middle-school- ministry-campference/ (accessed 10 7, 2011). Simply Youth Ministry. http://www. youthministry. com/user/kurt-johnston (accessed 10 7, 2011). Stier, Greg. Outbreak! Creating a Contagious Youth Ministry Through Viral Evangelism. Chacago, IL: Moody Press, 2002.

Philosopher essay

The United States' form of democracy was not assembled all by one man over night. The idea of self government is an idea not widely thought about in a world who ere a king ruled. Classical Republican Philosophers and Natural Rights Philosophers influx encoded many important documents that have controlled our country such as the Declaration n of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen, a document of the French revolution and history of huh man rights, and the Declaration of Independence.The Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen was giggly highly influenced by Thomas Jefferson because Jefferson was working with General Lafayette and Lafayette admired Jefferson. The very first article of this Declare Zion, â€Å"Men are born free and remain free and equal in rights† shows that everyone is equal. All of the rights show barely any restriction to people and express how every individual is Nat aurally equal. The Declaration of Independence was written by Thomas Jefferson. Jefferson carefully organized the Declaration to control the country, while showing a distinct Seen SE of freedom toward the individual.Thomas Jefferson used the unalienable rights, â€Å"Life, Lib retry, and a pursuit of Happiness† to express the type of life a United States citizen should have. Thomas Jefferson used these three rights from John Locke except Locke used property instead of a pursuit of happiness. By â€Å"property' Locke meant more than belongings, he ref erred to one's well being as a whole as well. Using these three rights, American people can d iced when the government has been too damaging and can change it (if need be). The D acceleration states reasons â€Å"We have warned them from time to time†¦

The debate about a woman's appearance and sexuality Essay

The debate about a woman's appearance and sexuality - Essay Example However, sexualizing the woman imagery has led to increased immorality. Speaker 1: I totally differ with based on your support for sexualized imagery of women in popular culture. Portrayals of women in modern media are becoming hyper-sexualized, and this has such daunting repercussions as escalated legitimization of violence against women, increased sexual harassment as well as increased anti-women attitudes amongst males (American Psychological Association (APA) Task Force, 2007). In addition, increased body dissatisfaction and eating disorders among males and females as well as reduced sexual satisfaction among men and women. Speaker 2: I do agree with your assertions on the consequence attached to sexualized depiction of women in the modern culture. However, my contention is on the notion that there is something wrong with sexualized imagery of women since to me I only see this as a representation of power. Right? Speaker 1: Hmmm. Let me help uncover something that you seem to be missing. As discovered by a study by University at Buffalo, sociologist unearthed that depiction of women in the popular media has even been pornified. Speaker 1: Let me try to accommodate your viewpoint. However, I will draw your attention to Hatton’s quote on the findings of the research at the University at Buffalo.† We don’t necessarily think it’s problematic for women to be portrayed as sexy. But we do think it is problematic when nearly all images of women depict them not simply as sexy women but as passive objects for someone else’ sexual pleasure.’ Speaker: According to my understanding of Hatton’s assertion is that, depiction is not the issue but the issues lies with the audience. It is the audience own evaluation of the imageries as objects for sex; however portrayal is not bad. Speaker 1: The concern arises from the representation. The consequential damage is attached to those portraying

Buying the Farm Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Buying the Farm - Essay Example From the case of Tim to purchase a farm from Mary Ann and complete the arrangement on oral ground is a contract which is not enforceable as it is against the statute of frauds which require some contracts to be in writing and should be signed by all parties who are to be bound by the contract (Hinkel, 2007). This is to prevent injury of any party due to any fraudulent conduct (Hinkel, 2007). The contract between Tim and Mary Ann, which involves the transactions in a farm, is not enforceable because the following conditions were not met, there was no legal capacity of the parties into the contract because the contract was made contrary to what the law provides, there was lack of mutual agreement as the parties failed to agree on a written platform, the oral contract lacked the lawful purpose and intention as the contract was arrived at, contrary to the laws (Hinkel, 2007). Lastly the contract lacked a written agreement, which is provided in the statute of the frauds which demand such contracts to be in writing (Hinkel, 2007). These conditions make the contract invalid and

Change Management- Its interrelation with Project Management Essay

Change Management- Its interrelation with Project Management - Essay Example Change management is all about managing change and making the change beneficial for everyone. The main field of changes are psychological, business and engineering. Thus with the study of change in organization it is also necessary to have knowledge about change in individual. Kurt Lewin proposed a model in which he described change in three stages. The first stage is of Unfreezing. This stage proposes the change which raze the general thinking of an individual. The second stage is the period of disarray in which how should we replace the current set up also comes into mind. The third stage is refreezing in which all changes are set and comfort level returns back to the original position. This was the last stage which refers that change also provides comfort in work and behavior. The other change model is presented by Kubler Ross. This model describes two stages one is personal and second is emotional. There is formula for change that is that a beneficial change occurs when organizational satisfaction is not good or future immediate change and these changes must have greater effect than the resistance of company to occur change. There are some points that results in successful change: - 1) Awareness :- The people should be aware of change that why it is needed and up to which level. 2) Desire :- It is a person's own desire to have change and to participate in it with enthusiasm and a new vision, 3) Knowledge :- How the change should be done and when, knowledge of these things is of utmost importance. The knowledge of these things helps in a beneficial change. 4) Ability :- Change is not so easy process, to implement change is a very tough job. How to implement new technology and new skills so as to gain maximum output. This ability should be there in a manager. Organizational Change Management :- To manage the change in technology and process and individual behavior on an organizational level is called organizational change management. To manage these terms with an individual behavior gives change in organization. Changes should be handled with great care. The management of these changes should be such that they do not cause any negative impact on the organization. All possible views are considered before making nay change. Types of changes in organization :- 1) Operational change :- These changes effect the ongoing operations of the organizatio

In what ways does an understanding of history and changing Essay

In what ways does an understanding of history and changing museological ideas help to explain the foundation and early development the British Museum and The National Gallery - Essay Example hosts princely art collections, the British Museum and the National Gallery offer phenomenal cultural industries that form the pride and identity of the people of the United Kingdom. Given that museums reflect cultural ideologies, these institutions have undergone changes that to some amounts to distortion of what should have been held so dear, and to others, the changes have resulted in better safekeeping avenues for the kind of artifacts that they harbour. In order to have rationally informed understanding of contextual relevance of these two iconic institutions, an in depth analysis of the impacts of history and changing museological ideas have had on them is necessary. The British Museum owes its inception to the will and determination of Sir Hans Sloane, a physician, naturalist and collector, whose ambition of seeing his collections preserved, according to Edwards (2011), formed the basis for the foundation of the museum. The initial collections of this museum consisted of manuscripts, books and natural specimens. In addition, other relics such as coins, medals, paintings and drawings were also available among the collections. Housed at Montagu House, it became accessible to the public in 1759, majorly drawing attention from curious individuals, and entry was free to all persons. During the period covering the 19th century, the museum received enormous expansion, both in space and in the array of collections, with such artifacts as ethnological and archeological materials from Europe and as far as Syria being incorporated. To this present moment, the museum has continually expanded its antiquities and currently includes artifacts from all round t he world, from Chinese ceramics to Egyptian Tomb-Chapel of Nebamun. Currently, the museum is looking forward to building the World Contemporary Exhibition Centre that will offer an additional temporary display space (The British Museum, 2015). On the other hand, The National Gallery came into existence when the

Social Policy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Social Policy - Essay Example It has been playing a curial role in meeting the health demands of the population. There are several intersectoral initiatives that have been taken to address the issue of health care in the UK. This has been influenced by the changes taking place in the health environment in the world and in the continental Europe. The changes have been implemented at the national levels with a trickle down effect felt in the lower level. The UK government has considered health care to be one of its important factor in the development of the social and economic life of the people. Most of the initiatives which are taken at the n atonal level are implemented through the NHS which is then implemented at the local government level. One of the current initiatives that have been implemented in the UK is the individual budget which is to start working in 2009. Under this program individual will be given more autonomy in the management of the funds that they receive from the social care system. This has also been extended to the health care system where individual will be given autonomy to decide on how they are going to use their money. Most of those patients who have been receiving their medical care through the NHS under the social care system will not be given autonomy to decide on the most appropriate health care providers that they will be attending. (Buttler, 2004) This initiative is expected to give the users of the social health care more independence in management of their health care needs. Unlike in the paste where the have been receiving their health services through the NHS they will be able to access these services even from the private practitioners. (Holmes, 2007) Another current heath care initiative that is likely to have an impact on the social care system is the health screening for over 40s. Under this initiative, the government twill be screening those who are over 40 years fro health complications that they may be facing. This initiative is expected to counteract the spreading wave of lifestyle diseases that continued to threaten the life of the aging population. This is a national program that will be expected to identify vulnerability to the vascular disease that has continued to claim the lives of many people in the UK. It is expected that the initiative will help to prevent up to 9500 heath attacks and strokes which occur every years and this could lead to saving of more than 2,000 lives. In the UK, vascular diseases in collection including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and kidney diseases affects the lives of more than four million and leads to loss of more than 170,000 people every year. Vascular disease have also been shown to account for more than half of the mortality rate gap that exist between the rich and the poor as result of the gap in their lifestyles. Education There are several changes that have also taken place in the UK social care system as far as education is concerned. One of the problem that had been experienced in the education sector for along time had been the problem of inclusion education. The current move by the government to work for inclusive education in which children learn in the same class regardless of their disability has been seen as one of the most important way of helping all children access classroom. (Harwin, 2004) Another plan that took effect in 2003 saw the sending

MR, empanada Internal Anaysis Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

MR, empanada Internal Anaysis - Research Paper Example The organizational chain supply process is tracked by the respective branch managers thereafter everything needed is then delivered from the Headquarter. Mr. Empanada is keen to employ an automated system which is able to check on the inventory and dispatch the required inventory to the centers even before the actual order has been placed. (Empanada Operations Manual 109). The organization is also keen to take charge of crucial interests ensuring that the company serves to the customers’ demands as seen July1992 during the launch of the 4th branch. One of the breakthroughs that have been achieved is the acquisition of a modern processing machine in Dec 2013 that has enhanced the processing speed and distribution to the various branches where preservations and sale is done. The main aim of this technology adoption targeted enhancement of efficiency and quality of production in terms of capacity buying and customers’ policy satisfaction. The restaurant has designed large grills where numerous panadas can be produced at ago and a dressing station where the staffing of the condiments such meat additives and other ingredients’ is done awaiting distribution to the branches (Empanada Operations Manual 109). Marketing and sales Mr. ... However, the effect of the final decision is based on the corporation officer who is also been accredited the powers to input and implement changes in consideration to the brands at Mr. Empanada (Mr. Empanada Operations Manual 109). As a matter of rewarding customers, the organization uses gift card coupons, which are loaded at the point of sale terminal in all the outlets with some specified amount of dollars in reference to the number of purchases made by the customers. When a customer wilts to redeem the points to pay bills, the card is, therefore, swiped at the POS and the deduction is automatically made by the card processor at the headquarters, which monitor the store lineage and either debits or credits appropriately in reflex to the location (Mr. Empanada Operations Manual 110). With the new social media working platform appearing an important aspect in all areas of marketing, Mr. Empanada Franchise Corporation has considered investing time and the organizations resources int o social media strategy as a definite necessity to wards customer awareness. Through the administration of all social media, the organization has received very real measurable returns of about 40% from initial media earnings. The facilitation has been made by the discretion of additional administrators responsible for hirirng agents who manage the social media pieces. Taking considerations to a social media site like face book, a single look design has been made, which can be accessed from different quarter while it is primarily administered at central location. This has popularized company branding and improved the awareness to a vast population while increasing customers loyalty and trust to the organization about the products the projection of lifespan of a product during

Euthanasia Persuasive Speech Essay Example for Free

Euthanasia Persuasive Speech Essay Imagine a world where anyone, even the curably ill or depressed, is easily assisted in suicide. Where someone else decides when you’re life is no longer worth living. Where it is a societal expectation to die rather than receive long-term care. Ladies and Gentlemen, this is the world that awaits us if we legalise euthanasia. Euthanasia, or assisted suicide, is defined as the practice or act of ending the life of a terminally ill person, usually by lethal injection. Though there is no exact specification for what ‘terminally ill’ may pertain to. Who would this definition extend to and who would be eligible to be euthanized? Some laws state that â€Å"terminally ill† means that death will occur in a relatively short time. Others are specifically stating within six months or less. Though this definition is futile, as medical experts state it is virtually impossible to predict the life expectancy of each specific patient. As this has been realised, numerous euthanasia activists have increasingly replaced references to ‘terminal illness’ to phrases such as ‘hopelessly ill’, ‘desperately ill’, ‘incurably ill’. In Thomas E. Joiner’s journal Suicide and Life- Threatening behaviour, an article described the guidelines for assisted suicide to be for those with a hopeless condition. The definition of ‘hopeless condition’ included terminal illness, severe physical or psychological pain, physical or mental debilitation or deterioration, or a quality of life that is no longer acceptable to the individual. In 2009, over 30% of euthanasia cases were carried out without consent in Belgium. Simultaneously, the number of cases had increased dramatically, specifically 40% greater in 2009 than in 2008. Furthermore, in 77. 9% of these cases the patients had been killed without an explicit request, nor a discussion of euthanasia. It seems extremely likely that, in Belgium, physicians are killing patients on their own cognizance with no regard for legal restraints. Is euthanasia truly a ‘voluntary’ practice, as described in the law? Even the enforcement of laws seems ineffective as they have proven to do little to ensure the safety of vulnerable patients. How can we ensure that these results will not be replicated in Australia if we follow in Belgium’s footsteps? Could euthanasia be considered a ‘slippery slope to legalised murder’? When analysing medicines primary taboo, as sworn in the Hippocratic Oath, ‘I will neither give a deadly drug to anybody if they asked for it, nor will I make a suggestion to this effect’ it becomes apparent that euthanasia purely contradicts this. Doctor assistance in the death of a patient is antithetical to the moral ethos and the primary goal of medicine. Their role as healer is fundamentally incompatible with euthanasia. Furthermore, euthanasia rejects the dignity and value of human life. The existing quality-of-human-life ethic would be replaced with a utilitarian and nihilistic death culture and a pessimistic view that the answer to life’s most difficult challenges is the intentional ending of human life. Such a radical shift in morality would fire dangerous consequences. Societal pressure and acceptance of this concept would influence the decisions of those who would originally never contemplate such a decision. Vulnerable people- the elderly, the ill, the depressed- would feel pressure- real or imagined- to request an early death through euthanasia. The legalisation of euthanasia would be detrimental to the strife for survival of the ill and depressed, to the vulnerable that health-maintenance organisations wish to exterminate, to the medical profession and to the overall value of human life. By legalising euthanasia we are allowing our world to transform into the unthinkable. When will someone else decide when you’re life is no longer worth living?

Watsons Theory of Human Caring Essay Example for Free

Watsons Theory of Human Caring Essay A caring moment can be defined in many different ways by many different people. To me a caring moment between a patient and a nurse is when a nurse gives the patient their undivided attention. The nurse should take the time to listen to the patient and provide appropriate feedback reassuring the patient that they are being heard and the information as well as them are important. If the patient will allow the nurse to touch them this can be a very comforting gesture even if it is just a brief touch to the hand. Also repeat what the patient stated letting them know that you understood (Watson, 2009). Jean Watson, a nurse, who through personal experiences, beliefs, values and, higher education states that the focus of nursing is human caring, According to Lukose (2011) Caring and the healing task is more heart-centered than conventional nursing practice and extends to examine self and others. The major concepts of Watsons theory of human caring in the caring-healing process has expanded over the years, but based off her theory that it is According to Lukose (2011) connected with the high energy of the universe. Watsons states that the nurse creates a healing environment through forgiveness, compassion and love. Also that by using carative factors and a transpersonal relationship the nurse will be able to treat the whole patient (mind, body, and soul). For a couple of years I was the diabetic nurse at a county jail. I had a diabetic patient that was new to the jail and I was seeing the patient for the first time. I always tried to make my patients feel comfortable by having them sit in a chair and I did the same so we would be on the same level. This particular patient was very angry and did not want to speak about his disease process. Every time I would ask him a question trying to obtain some sort of history he would give answers like I dont care or none of it matters anymore. I continued to see him on a weekly basis trying to find a way to help him start caring again. I would get a little information from him, but I did start to discover that he had been going through some very hard times. The things that had happened to him led him to start drinking alcohol and using drugs which was how he ended up in jail. I continually would try to get him to take his diabetic medications. He also had hypertension and hyperlipidemia and would not take the medications for those either. This went on for two months with him telling me to just leave him alone he is not worth the trouble. I would order laboratory studies he would refuse, I would order medications and he would also refuse those. I usually tried to have face to face visits with the diabetic patients at least twice a week and had one day where I had quite a few patients to see. This patient was on my schedule but not until later in the day. It seemed like everyone was having a bad day almost every patient that I saw was angry and taking it out on me and I was feeling very frustrated. By the time I got to this patient I was fed up, only to hear him tell me how I was wasting my time he was not going to change his mind. So I just looked at him and said I do not even know why I continue to do this, nobody cares anyway as I said this I had tears in my eyes and told the patient he could just go ahead and leave, and he did. I, of course, continued to work as the diabetic nurse but my heart was not in it at all. The next week came and I had another face to face with this patient. When he came into the examination room he was different, I had his medication record and a record of his vital signs and blood glucose checks but had not looked at them. He started to talk before I had a chance, he told me that when he left from the previous visit that he went back to his room and prayed the entire night. He said that God told him that he needed to start following his treatment plan. I than looked at his records and saw that he had been taking all of his medications and that blood pressure and blood glucose numbers were decreasing. I could not believe it, I just looked at him dumbfounded. The patient told me he felt great and that I needed to keep continue what I was doing because I really did make a difference and had changed his life. I must have looked so silly because I was crying and smiling at the same time. He said that he just could not believe that someone cared that much about what happened to him. I continued to see that patient for several more months, and he would tell me how he had started to repair all of the relationships in his life through understanding, forgiveness and god. I learned that I should continue to care for the whole patient with love and accept them for who they are (Caruso, Cisar, Pipe, 2008). Continuing to show this patient how much I cared through my perseverance made a difference in both of our lives. I created a healing and caring environment in an environment that could be harsh with a lack of positive human to human connection. I should not let my frustration be so apparent or voiced the that I did not even know why I became a nurse, it was not professional. I often wonder if that patient had not seen the effect he had on me that he may have never realized that I truly did care. In a different environment I would have been able to enhance this caring moment by being able to give more of my time to the patient and provide even more education. The nursing metaparadigm applied to this patient and I was unaware of it at the time. As I am learning about nursing theories I can see it. I had individualized the nursing care for this person. I identified the mental and physical problems this patient was facing and tried to implement the appropriate measures. I used my critical thinking skills to establish the patients plan of care. I also got to know the patient and the patients lifestyle and used this in the plan of care (Sitzman, 2002). I had also utilized carative factors without any knowledge of them at the time. According to Vanenhouten, Kubusch, and Peterson (2012) Cultivation of sensitivity to ones self and others, through my own spiritual practices I was putting the patients needs before my own. According to Vanenhouten, Kubusch, and Peterson (2012) Development of a helping, trusting, human caring relationship, I continued to try to help the patient by gaining his trust and proving that I cared. According to Vanenhouten, Kubusch, and Peterson (2012) Promotion and acceptance of the expression of positive and negative feelings, I supported the patient and understood the barriers he was facing, and was able to make a connection with the patient that turned both of our negative feelings into a very positive experience for the both of us. According to Vanenhouten, Kubusch, and Peterson (2012) Promotion of a transpersonal teaching and learning, I took into account the patients current situation and developed his plan of care as well as all of the education I provided around his level of understanding and the barriers he faced being in jail. I reflect on this situation a lot and have told the story many times when I have come across a nurse that is feeling like giving up. A nurse really can make a difference in someones life when they are caring for a patient with their heart. Whether or not it is physical or mental a nurse can save someones life with a caring nurse-patient relationship. Caring and healing, I believe that one cannot exist without the other. Lukose, A. (2011, Jan). Developing a practice model for Watsons theory of caring. Nursing Science Quarterly, 24(1), 27-30. Caruso, E., Cisar, N., Pipe, T. (2008, April/June). Creating a healing environment: An innovative educational approach for adopting Jean Watsons theory of human caring. Nursing Administration Quarterly, 32(2). Vanenhouten, C., Kubusch, S., Peterson, M. (2012, Nov/Dec). Watsons theory of transpersonal caring Factors impacting nurses professional caring. Holistic Nursing Practice, 26(6), 326-334. Morris, D. L. (2006). Encyclopedia of nursing research (2nd ed.). Retrieved from http://search.proquest.comezproxy.apollolibrary.com.docreview/189451612?acciuntid=458. Morris, D. L. (2006). Encyclopedia of nursing research (2nd ed.). Retrieved from http://search.proquest.comezproxy.apollolibrary.com.docreview/189451612?acciuntid=458.

Workforce Planning

Workforce Planning Scenario: Thinking of brands with a prestige; Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy or LVMH is going to come in many peoples thoughts straight away. LVMH is a business organisation involved in many areas and in many countries specialized in luxury goods. In this report, the researcher as a human resource consultant in LVMH, professional consultation on various aspects of HR planning and development is needed. Task 1: Objectives: What is Workforce Planning Workforce planning at global level Purpose of HR planning in LVMH A plan is a process of doing something and the way of doing it. It is the middle stage of current state of affairs and the future state of affairs. Whereas, workforce planning is the process of pointing out what kind of human resource organization needs, to fulfil its goals and objectives. It determines the skill, knowledge and experience required for a given job. Workforce planning helps: Control employee costs Assess talent needs Cost effectiveness of employees Efficiency of employees Assess human capital needs and risks. Optimum performance, knowledge in different cultural, being pro-active are few reasons for workforce planning internationally. Above all language and culture which also include religion, peoples beliefs and traditional practices; are often considered as a major issue here. HR is planned at global level to increase their knowledge, skill and experience in different working environments. Globalisation has become a strong and challenging task for all the organisations. Organisations are expanding globally facing new challenges every moment. To cope up with this situation organisation needs more workforces who have experience at global level. Globalisation always creates pressure for the organisation but it is also fruitful for the organisation at a longer term as well. Due to limited funds in this recession, LVMH plans human resource to do the same amount of work but with limited or fewer staff members. It makes replacement easy to fill with appropriate Ready to Move candidate. Filling vacancies has always been very critical as lack of knowledge about the specific work and management and also lack of experience and competencies apply. HR planning in LVMH gives a clear picture of the expenditures going to incur to train and develop their staff for the next suitable task. Rapid technological change and reduced communication costs have increased international production in LVMH. Workforce planning does not always mean recruitment process. Hence, the purpose of workforce planning in LVMH at global level is very clear. Getting hold on English language as well as some international languages. Develop talent in working on a totally different environment. External and internal factors need to consider while working at global level. The different strategies and management practice needs to undertake while working at global level. (1)LVMH believes that the best way to develop its employees is not by formal training but international vertical, horizontal and geographical mobility within the organisation; LVMH case study. LVMH believes in practical training rather than theoretical approach, which can only be done in moving workforce across the globe. The senior employees get their chance first in global mobility. HR directors are the one who decides the potential candidate who is Ready to Move. Task 2: Objectives: What is International Recruitment Advantages of International Recruitment International Recruitment, is the most important HR function within LVMH. Recruitment is the most important aspect of human resource management. Whereas, International Recruitment means hiring or recruiting someone to work in the organisation at a global level. That person will have to be competent of international experience, knowledge and skill. He will have to be strong enough to face the global challenges and can lead the organisation in the global market. International recruitment process often depends on country of operation and is always very difficult to carry on. Language has always been a major drawback in international recruitment. As for company like LVMH they only recruit individual who can speak fluent English and also at least three different international languages to reduce their cost of training employees and increase staff efficiency in language point of view. International recruitment has various benefits; Experience: Person will be experienced enough to deal with international situation. Company can also be benefitted from the experience he can share. Efficiency: They will be efficient in understanding organisations structure and working methods; resulting time saving. Cost Effectiveness: Additional training in managing organisations globally or training in different languages is not required; thus saving staff training expenses. Cheap recruitment: Recruitment process is often cheap from hiring someone with international knowledge or experience, who would be able to manage the company well, rather than hiring employee from the home country. Savings in the salaries will be derived in this process. Culture: Knowledge in different culture of people can be studied and often counted as beneficial for the company. Corporate strategy of the business can be changed for greater good in order to maintain companys mission and achieve goals faster. Though LVMH is based in Paris, they are a global giant and is spread globally across three continent and among 58 countries worldwide. Their business has been divided into five different world zone across the globe which made international recruitment essential. The international recruitment process of LVMH benefits from all the advantages of international recruitment. Employees are moved globally to maintain the companys standards everywhere the same with its goal to fulfil and also their corporate mission (2)to represent the most refined qualities of western products around the world, LVMH group mission. As for LVMH international recruitment process is a very difficult HR functions as well. Often it is hard to find someone who is the right person, for a right task to perform in the right place of work. Their different cultural view make the company even hard to get benefitted from their involvement in planning and implementation of strategies. Recruitment is kind of a long term investment not in terms of asset but in terms of quality work to lead the company further to its values and mission. Thus it can be supported that international recruitment is a significant step in HR management within LVMH. Task 3: Objectives: What is international mobility Need for international mobility Importance of international mobility in LVMH International mobility means employee who are professional in any field of that company work in order to satisfy corporate and client needs in a different working area than its own. Often employees are transferred from one place to another around the world to make the company more virtual and certainly more widespread in the future. The faster growth of globalisation and the pressure to compete with its competitors, international mobility now take place in most of the big companies. International mobility is a combination of the points such as: Talent management: This is the process of selecting candidate, setting their objectives and identifying their individual role in retention strategies and repatriation planning. Reward aspects: This is the process of fixing base compensation and benefits; and their expatriate policy of a candidate. Procedural aspects: This consists of risk management which is nothing but immigration requirements and contractual arrangements; cost management and administering the international mobility process. Situations vary from company to company and with its HR policy to what extent international mobility is required. Massive company like LVMH, who performs around the world, international mobility also take place due to seasonal shortage of workforce in any particular country. Common holiday appeal is also a well known factor; as most employees want holiday during the summer school holiday period or in the Christmas time. During these periods of time, it is often wise for LVMH to transfer or appoint professionals in the same field but from different area into those places. This is only possible for internationally mobile workforce that a person in France can go for a summer holiday in July and in his place a person from Australia can join work, where he might need holiday in his summer time which is in December. Too many or too less professionals always create conflict in achieving tasks. Thus international mobility gives a chance to balance things accordingly. Due to recent fall in many luxury companies; LVMH is in lack of confidence in hiring new employee to follow new strategies. Rather they are into developing their market following their previous own strategies performed by existing employees which were proven to a success earlier. In this point financial factor is also a main problem as they are less likely to afford any new mistakes. Many people want to migrate to a different country to work. Thus companies face problems in finding themselves a skilled worker. A company like LVMH gives them the chance to migrate. However after certain time people want to come back to their home country to settle down which is also possible for employees in LVMH as international mobility is not always undertaken. People migrate for increased salary which might be far less to LVMH. A manager in the UK, and a manager in India, who are performing the same task same hours a week might have a huge difference among their salaries. In this way it is a savings for the company to achieve such employees. In todays crisis, it is difficult for the companies to find a good employee; therefore, nobody wants to leave their professionals. Therefore international mobility is a must for the company to run their business. For LVMH to succeed in its competitive market, they need to recruit internationally mobile employees to reach their target and objectives to fill their expected corporate goals. Task 4: Objectives: Career development and expatriate compensation scheme Benefits to the managers of LVMH from the scheme Benefits to LVMH from the scheme (3)The international mobility policy is part of a career development scheme, LVMH case study. LVMH has exciting career development prospects; as it does not provide high compensation levels to its expatriates, since the company is cutting its cost to be more cost efficient. Its vision is not to attract its employees by economic incentives, though LVMH pay a very high rate of salary. The employees receive their salaries according to the international standard rather than based on the country of work. LVMH also offer their employees the chance to perform their task with more freedom. Effectively employees get convinced to work outside from their home country due to various challenges he can undertake as well. The career development and expatriate compensation practice of LVMH is beneficial for both the company and its expatriates. As for its expatriates, the competitive raise in the salary after each year or a specified time, motivates them. Their salary is based according to the percentage of their expenditure and also 30% savings to their salary money to send back home. Expatriate receives a relocation allowance which is equivalent to a month of their gross salary prior to the arrival in the new country of work. Expatriates receives additional benefits such as paid education for their children, paid home leaves, temporary housing for up to a month, and also last but not least loans for housing deposits or purchasing automobile. Employees would not have to worry about their cost of moving as it is covered by LVMH. Employees get paid holidays depending on their home countrys labour law. Depending on the personnel and their job title, some of them receive much generous home leave allowance like travelling in the first class instead of economy class. Their security benefits would always remain the same as their home country; where LVMH sometimes end up paying a double contribution in the social security. LVMH provides huge benefits for its internationally mobile expatriates in healthcare. LVMH provides health insurance to approximately 95% of its employees and their family in the same standard as they can get in their home country. Life insurance and disability protection also proves that the level of cover is highly reputable. As for the company, LVMH often calculate the salary of its expatriates based on the home country. This provides the cost effectiveness of the company. Internationally mobile expatriates are a kind of investment in longer term for the company as future profit will be achieved through the successful completion of any international assignments. The various benefits of international mobility for a company apply in LVMH too. Employees who are motivated and work internationally brings extensive skill and knowledge to the company. Since, employees do not work in same country for a longer time, thus their efficiency level remains at its full all the time. Task 5: Objectives: Problems in Career development through international mobility Strategic consultation for LVMH LVMH offers a competitive rate of benefits to all its expatriates in career development through international mobility. As it has been mentioned in the earlier tasks, LVMHs policies of attracting its expatriates are very much different and broad from the other companies. For providing many facilities to its internationally mobile expatriates, LVMH also get highly skilled international manager with many years of experience in working at a global level. Due to its competitive rate of benefit offered to its expatriates, employees often get greedy and expect more from the company which may result conflict with the companys mission and objectives. They might start requesting for an early or frequent transfer to different countries to be eligible for the benefits. Some under-developed or developing country staff might want himself to settle down in the developed countries for greater good. Some people get very excited of the various benefits they are going to receive and thus do not concentrate on working effectively and efficiently, leaving companys purpose for international mobility undone. It could be suggested that LVMH can make a change in its recruitment policy. Candidates should get the job via several assessments: They should fit for the job applied Their previous references should be assessed Their quality of the idea for the job should be measured They should be hired for a probation period to carry out a task Based on the task completed they could be made a permanent staff They would not be entitled for the benefits as a temporary staff Further recommendations could be advertising the vacancies in public Medias. People often get attracted when they hear about vacancies. Prior to selection, candidates should be briefed about the job and its rewards. Employees should sometimes get the chance to work in their home country as well. Task 6: Objectives: Advantages of international transfer policy How employees could be motivated The international transfer department of LVMH makes the policy for international transfer. The policy then followed by the HR Directors to transfer LVMHs employees at a global level. Due to the different standards made by the department, it is often very easy to pick people who are eligible for an international transfer. The various benefits could be: Has an unique standard to assess the candidates Is fair for all HR Director cannot separate anyone from the policy Based on the potentiality of the candidate Information flow and is harmonised Maintaining the standards in the international transfer policy, the international transfer department refer LVMHs expatriates by gathering information about them from its wide international networks. Based on the references and recommendations to the HR Directors; the policy work as a helpful benchmark. International transfer policy strengthens the company by assisting companys HR teams. Employees can be motivated as it is a fair policy. Constant rise in international assignments need more international employees. Various benefits offered to the employees through international mobility are framed by the international transfer policy. It is an internal part of LVMHs management concept. (4)International transfer policy has a clear mandate to spread the groups key values which are preserving, autonomy and encouraging entrepreneurship; LVMH case study. It is a process of achieving future career development in LVMH. The mission and vision which are widely spread by the policy increase the level of motivations among the expatriates. Expansion in the policy could be developed due to the increased number of international transfers made. International transfer policy helps to achieve goals by motivating LVMHs expatriates to be effective in their task, and to complete it efficiently.

Taco Bells Response to Lawsuit Essay -- Case Study

Unexpected Event In January 2011, a class action lawsuit was filed against Taco Bell, alleging the restaurant chain used more meat fillers than real ground beef. Specifically, the suit claimed Taco Bell’s products were made with â€Å"taco meat filling,† which consisted of extenders and other non-meat substances. The complaint further pointed out that Taco Bell not only misled consumers but also violated federal requirements by labeling â€Å"taco meat filling† as beef. This incident was unexpected as Taco Bell was not informed before the lawsuit was publicized. In addition, the â€Å"beef fiasco† made national headlines and could seriously tarnish the Taco Bell brand. Taco Bell’s response to the â€Å"meat filling† charges was quick and direct. In an attempt to reassure both the customers and employees, Taco Bell launched an advertising campaign explaining the ingredients in its ground beef. The following analysis will discuss how Taco Bell used integrative thinking to combat the bad press and how the company applied Weick and Sutcliffe’s five HRO principles to reverse the negative sentiments generated by the lawsuit. I will also suggest small wins for Taco Bell in regards to the functionalities and implementation of the five HRO principles in order to manifest a more mindful and sustainable infrastructure in the wake of this event. Integrating IMC 457 Taco Bell could choose to remain silent in response to the charges and had its attorneys to negotiate on its behalf. However, silence from the company would mean to reluctantly agree with the accusations. Or, Taco Bell could stay aggressive and took legal action against the plaintiff for making allegedly false statements about its products. The implied trade-off here would be the risk of inviti... ...the five HRO principles must be implemented at all levels to develop a state of â€Å"mindfulness† and to meet customers’ expectations. Works Cited 1. http://adage.com/article/news/taco-bell-launches-ad-campaign-response-lawsuit/148552/ 2. http://www.prdaily.com/crisiscommunications/Articles/7297.aspx 3. http://www.prdaily.com/crisiscommunications/Articles/PR_crisis_averted_Lawsuit_targeting_Taco_Bells_bee_7980.aspx 4. http://mashable.com/2011/01/28/taco-bell-social-media-crisis/ 5. http://abcnews.go.com/Health/Wellness/taco-bell-defends-beef-legal-action/story?id=12785818#.T6r9046nS8U 6. http://www.mrmediatraining.com/index.php/2011/04/22/taco-bells-great-crisis-management/ 7. http://ww2.crisisblogger.com/2011/01/taco-bell-if-there-beef-is-as-good-as-their-crisis-management-theyre-looking-good/ 8. http://www.coneinc.com/taco-bell-manages-beef-crisis

Declaration of Independence Essay -- U.S. History

Children’s voice shouting in parades, spinning noise-makers, giant flags of red, white, and blue waving in every corner of the street, fireworks light up the night sky, friends and family gathering around with big smile on their faces; it is not somebody’s birthday nor it is an ordinary day. It is a true festival, a country’s birthday. The Fourth of July marks the anniversary of the glorious day in 1776 when America, as a new nation declared to the world its independence from monarchs. Because of the importance of this day, thus, the Declaration of Independence can be considered as one of the most influential documents in American History. Not only that, other organizations and countries have also adopted its manner and tones for their own documents or declarations, such as â€Å"Declaration of the Rights of Man† from France or the â€Å"Declaration of Sentiments† from the Women’s Right movement. After the Congress ratified the text on July Fourth, the Declaration of Independence had been issued in several forms. It was originally published as a printed broadside that was generally distributed and read to the public. Nevertheless, although the wording was approved on the Fourth of July, most historians have concluded that â€Å"it was signed almost a month later after its adoption, not on July Fourth as is commonly believed† . The Declaration not only justified the independence of the United States of America by listing colonial complaints against King George III, but it also asserted certain and legal rights, including the right of evolution. Nonetheless, after the American Revolution, the original purpose of the text was ignored. Since then, the Declaration of Independence can only be viewed as a major statement on human rights. Yet, the ques... ...he Declaration of Independence: an interpretation and an analysis (New York, The Macmillan Company, 1904), 67 Pauline Maier, American Scripture: Making the Declaration of Independence (New York, Alfred A. Knopf, 1998), 41 Brian Boyd, Origin of Stories: Evolution, Cognition and Fiction (Massachusetts, Belknap of Harvard UP, 2010), 21 Henry Stephens Randall, The life of Thomas Jefferson, Volume 1 (New York: Derby & Jackson, 1858), 165 Carl L. Becker, The Declaration of independence: a study in the history of political ideas (New York: Harcourt, Brace and Co., 1922), 4 Merrill Jensen, The Founding of a Nation: A History of the American Revolution 1763-1776 (New York: Oxford University Press, 1968), 700—1 John E. Ferling, Setting the World Ablaze: Washington, Adams, Jefferson, and the American Revolution (New York: Oxford University Press, 2000), 131—37

Hong Kong Airlines Marketing Plan for India Essay

1. Introduction The purpose of this project is to develop an international marketing plan for Hong Kong Airlines to expand to the India market. The first part of the project will cover the current marketing mix and strategies of Hong Kong Airlines, as well as the SWOT analysis. The second part will analyze the India market and explore the feasibility for Hong Kong Airlines to enter this market as a low-cost carrier, or commonly known as a budget airline. It will be followed by some foreseeable challenges, with the relevant remedial measures. 2. Current Marketing Mix This section will illustrate the current marketing mix of Hong Kong Airlines. Product/Service Hong Kong Airlines is a full service carrier which provides both scheduled regional flights and cargo services within the Asia-pacific Region. Price The airfare for Hong Kong Airlines is relatively lower than that of its competitors such as Cathay Pacific and Dragonair. Place Hong Kong Airlines is a Hong Kong-based airline with its main hub and corporate head office at the Hong Kong International Airport. It uses the bauhinia flower, the emblem of Hong Kong, as its logo. People Hong Kong Airlines emphasizes that their staff are young and energetic. It is expected that the size of employees will reach 2,600 in the near future. Physical Evidence As of February 2013, Hong Kong Airlines’ fleet consists of 25 aircrafts with an average age of 3.9 years. This is relatively new when comparing with other airlines. Processes Hong Kong Airlines adopts both direct and indirect process – direct online sales via its corporate website and indirect sales via travel agencies. Promotion Currently Hong Kong Airlines promotes mainly via advertising, incentives, customer relationship management and public relations. Advertising Hong Kong Airlines does both hard and soft selling through digital platforms, including its corporate website, Facebook, Weibo and Mobile Apps. Positioning as a young and enthusiastic airline, Hong Kong Airlines has invested a considerable amount on online channels in order to reach its potential customers. Besides, Hong Kong Airlines has utilized television commercials, printed advertisements and advertorials in magazines. Incentives Hong Kong Airlines collaborates with local travel agencies, such as China Travel Service (Hong Kong) Limited. The travel agencies bundle air tickets with hotel accommodation and offer seasonal packages with appealing discounts. Customer Relationship Management Hong Kong Airlines has a customer loyalty programme – the Fortune Wing Club. The membership benefits include air award redemption, priority check-in and extra baggage allowance to its frequent flyers. Public Relations Hong Kong Airlines highly involves in charity projects and sponsorship events. For example, it has launched the fund raising programme, Fly & Care, which aims to subsidy athletes for preparing the 2016 Brazil Paralympic Games. It has also received various service awards such as the Capital Weekly Service Awards in 2012. 3. Current Marketing Strategy The majority of Hong Kong Airlines’ passengers are middle-aged males, with annual income below RMB150,000. They are generally value-conscious customers who are looking for reasonable service level with a relatively low airfare. Figure 3.1 summarizes some features of Hong Kong Airlines’ passengers. Geographic Segment| 84% from Asia-pacific region, with Hong Kong constituting 36%.| Demographic Segment| Gender * Male > 70% * Female < 30%Age * Below 30: 28% * 31 – 50: 60%Annual Income Level (in RMB) * Below 60k: 12% * >60k-100K: 23.3% * >100k – 150k: 31.5% * >150k – 200k : 9.4% * >200k – 400k: 8.9% * >400k: 14.9%| Travel Purpose| * Business travel: 71% * Vacation/others: 29%| Figure 3.1Segmentation of Hong Kong Airlines’ Passenger Competitors of Hong Kong Airlines High price Low price Low service quality High service quality Figure 3.2 Perceptual Map of Competitors The vertical and horizontal axes of Figure 3.2 represent price and service level respectively. Hong Kong Airlines is located at the bottom right corner because it provides reasonable service level with competitive price. Dragonair and Tiger Airways both operate on similar routings as Hong Kong Airlines. With Dragonair positioning as a premium brand while Tiger Airways being a low-cost carrier, they are selected for a more detailed competitor analysis. Dragonair Dragonair is an international airline based in Hong Kong, which is a wholly owned subsidiary of the flagship carrier of Hong Kong – Cathay Pacific. It aims to offer customers enjoyable and comfortable flying experience via its full scope of services and quality cabin products. Its customers’ demographic profile is very close to that of Hong Kong Airlines: 85% of the passengers live in Asia-pacific and 30% of them live in Hong Kong; 66% are males and their average age is 41-year-old; and the average personal monthly income is around USD5,000. They are service-sensitive and less price-conscious. More than half of the passengers are frequent travelers who fly for more than 6 times annually. Tiger Airways Tiger Airways is a low-cost carrier based in Singapore. Low-cost carrier refers to airline that provides limited scope of service with low airfares. The airfare is meant for the transport service only and customers have to pay extra for baggage allowance, food and beverages etc, if required. For example, Tiger Airways offers a buy-on-board program, Tiger Bites, for customers to purchase food and beverage. Tiger Airways operates between Singapore and some regional destinations in Southeast Asia, Australia, China and India. Their passengers are price-conscious and less service-sensitive. 4. SWOT Analysis Strengths Hong Kong Airlines can enjoy strong financial support from their parent company, Hainan Airline, which is the largest privately owned air transport company in China. Operating in a relatively small scale, Hong Kong Airlines can be flexible and responsive to the market changes. Its young fleet includes both short / medium haul aircrafts (A320) and long haul aircrafts (A330-200 & A330-300), which can support routings between Hong Kong and Asia-pacific ports. Figure 4.1A330-200’s Coverage (from Hong Kong) Figure 4.2A330-300’s Coverage (from Hong Kong) Weaknesses Hong Kong Airlines has a weak financial management. The Hong Kong Aircraft Engineering Company Limited has stopped providing services to Hong Kong Airlines due to its inability to settling the bills. This forces Hong Kong Airlines to turn to another aircraft maintenance service provider – China Aircraft Services Ltd. Hong Kong Airlines is also weak in operational management. The Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department has frozen the fleet expansion plans of Hong Kong Airlines since August 2012 due to safety concerns, and advised it to consolidate the existing operations with current fleet size. With a relatively small scale of operations, Hong Kong Airlines has a rather weak bargaining power with its suppliers of aircrafts, fuel, and aircraft maintenance services. Opportunities The tourism industry in Asia-pacific region is expected to expand due to the fast economic growth, and the implementation of the intra-regional policies in tourism development. Currently the intra-regional traffic constitutes around 78% of Asian tourism, with budget airlines account for 24.9% of Asia’s total passenger traffic. The Hong Kong Tourism Board will invest around HKD30 million in opening up new visitor sources in five new markets – India, the Middle East, Russia, Vietnam and the Netherlands. These developments in tourism will definitely increase the demand for air travel. Threats There are keen competitions in the aviation industry, involving both the market leaders and low-cost carriers. One of the major operation costs for an airline is the fuel cost, which has a great impact on an airline’s profitability. If the crude oil prices return to the peak of USD70-odd or higher, some small-scale airlines, like Hong Kong Airlines, may be unable to survive. 5. Expansion to India This section comprises an analysis of the India market, a marketing plan for Hong Kong Airlines to expand to India and some foreseeable challenges. Market Analysis To expand the business of Hong Kong Airlines, entering the India market as a low-cost carrier would be a considerable option based on the factors below: Increase in Indian outbound travel The number of Indian outbound travel has been increased from 5.4 million in 2003 to 12.5 million in 2010. The World Tourism Organization predicts that India will account for 50 million outbound tourists by 2020. Figure 5.1Outbound Traveler Numbers of India Depreciation of Indian rupee The Indian rupee has been depreciating and cheap air tickets are becoming more preferable for the value-conscious Indian tourists. Increase in the popularity of low-cost carriers The demand for cheap air tickets has made low-cost carriers more popular in India. In 2012, 37% of the Indian leisure travelers travel overseas via budget airlines. No low-cost carriers available between Hong Kong and India Despite the wide coverage amongst the Asia-pacific areas by existing low-cost carriers, currently there are no direct flights between Hong Kong and India operated by any low-cost carriers. Change in Indian aviation policy In September 2012, the Indian government has eased the restriction by allowing foreign direct investment up to 49% in private Indian airlines. 2013-2014 Work Plan of Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) To open up new visitor sources for Hong Kong, the HKTB has been actively developing new markets, including India. The proposed marketing budget for India in 2013-2014 will be HKD13.4 million. The above factors have illustrated a growing market for low-cost carriers in India, which is not yet fully accommodated by existing airlines. Together with the open-up policy of Indian government and the marketing plan of HKTB, it is a favorable opportunity for Hong Kong Airlines to expand its operation into India as a low-cost carrier. [Remarks: There are rumors that Hong Kong Airlines’ sister airline, Hong Kong Express, will relaunch itself as a low-cost carrier in the near future. However, no relevant official announcement has been made by either the Hainan Group or Hong Kong Express. Regardless, this project aims to propose Hong Kong Airlines to enter India as low-cost carrier; any future development plans of other subsidiaries of the Hainan Group should be investigated separately.] International Market Plan Objectives This plan serves to relaunch Hong Kong Airlines as a low-cost carrier in India. It aims to raise public awareness of the company’s new positioning in the India market, with the ultimate goal to increase revenue. Target Audience This plan will target the potential customers in Mumbai and Delhi, which are the two cities containing the most outbound travel population in India – 33% and 26% respectively. Entry Strategy The ideal entry strategy will be cooperating with a local airline or company in the form of joint venture. It will reduce the risk of investment, and also serve to comply with the local government’s policy on foreign direct investment. However, Hong Kong Airlines needs to be very careful in choosing the right local partner as most of the local airlines are suffering from severe financial problems. Therefore, it would be preferable to resemble the capital partnership between Air Asia and the Tata Group in India. Market Strategy In view of the strong cultural differences between India and Hong Kong, Hong Kong Airlines will adopt a localized market strategy and compete as a market nicher amongst the existing competitors. Marketing Mix The table below summarizes the marketing mix which Hong Kong Airlines will adopt to enter the India market. Price| * Low| Product /Service| * Limited | Place| * Local back office * Online channels| People| * Local employees| Promotion| Direct Advertising * Digital marketing: website, Facebook * Interactive marketing * Outdoor promotions * Membership programmeIndirect Advertising * Cooperation with other organizations / companies: Hong Kong Tourism Board, India’s Ministry of Tourism & travel agents * Product placement in films| Figure 5.2Summary of Marketing Mix for Hong Kong Airlines’ expansion to the India Market Price As a low-cost carrier, the airfare will be much lower than its rivals. Product The scope of service will be limited – the airfare will only include the transport service. Customers will be required to pay extra for the others, such as baggage handling, in-flight catering and entertainment. Place Hong Kong Airlines will set up local office in India, mainly for back-end operation but not customer-facing. Instead, it will utilize the online channels to approach the customers because there is a continuous increase in the number of internet users in India – from 5.5 million in 2000 to 100 million in 2010. People In terms of people, the company will recruit local employees to address the cultural differences between Hong Kong and India. Promotion The promotions can be classified as Direct Advertising and Indirect Advertising; the former refers to advertisements that reach the public directly, while the latter includes cooperation with other organizations and companies. For direct advertising, Hong Kong Airlines will utilize the digital marketing channels by setting up website and Facebook page specifically for India; besides having a fast growing amount of internet users, India also has the world’s third largest Facebook community. Interactive marketing activities, such as games and contests, can be introduced through these channels. The company will conduct outdoor promotions, like billboards, to respond to the cultural characteristics of Indians – collectivism and the preference of public space. Hong Kong Airlines will expand its membership programme, Bauhinia Miles, to India to retain customers and build a customer database for future promotions. Customers will be offered purchase discount upon accumulating certain amount of credits, through participating in the promotion events, such as referral. It is different from other customer loyalty programmes, which customers can redeem complimentary flights or lifestyle awards with flying miles. Since Hong Kong Airlines will operate as a low-cost carrier offering low airfare, it would be difficult for the company to offer excessive complimentary awards to customers. As for indirect advertising, Hong Kong Airlines can cooperate with the Hong Kong Tourism Board and the India’s Ministry of Tourism to promote Hong Kong Tourism to the Indians, and vice versa. This tie in with the current strategy of HKTB to explore new visitor sources in new markets, including India. The company will also cooperate with local travel agents to provide low-cost travel packages because 60% of Indians used to purchase air tickets through travel agents. Also, the depreciation of rupee induces demand for cheap travel packages. Since Bollywood, the Hindi-language film industry, is one of the largest film product centres worldwide, Hong Kong Airlines will cooperate with the local film production companies for product placement. Potential Challenges The cultural differences between India and Hong Kong may obstruct the understanding and effective communication with the potential customers. Recruitment of local employees and learning from the local partner(s) will help ease the cultural impact. Another challenge will be the high burden on operating cost due to the high taxation on luxury in India. Travel is still being regarded as a luxury in India and the tax on jet fuel is 70% more than that in other countries. So Hong Kong Airlines needs to ensure a high passenger load factor on each flight and to strictly control other costs in order to leverage the overall operating costs. 6. Conclusion Hong Kong Airlines is currently a full service carrier in Hong Kong targeting value-conscious customers. In order to expand its business, entering the India market would be a favorable option for the company because of the various opportunities of the India market – the increase in India outbound travel, depreciation of Indian rupee, no existing direct competitors, change in Indian aviation policy, and upcoming work plan of Hong Kong Tourism Board. In view of the market situation, the marketing plan of Hong Kong Airlines will relaunch the company as a low-cost carrier in India, targeting the two cities with most outbound travel population, in the form of joint venture. It aims to raise public awareness of the company’s new positioning in the India market, with the ultimate goal to increase revenue. The marketing mix will be – offering low airfare; providing limited scope of services; setting up local back office and utilizing online channels; as well as recruiting local employees. A wide range of direct and indirect advertising will be adopted, which includes online marketing, outdoor promotion, membership programmes, cooperation with other organizations and companies, and product placement in films. As if other business expansion plans, Hong Kong Airlines will face some challenges when entering the India market. The most crucial one is the cultural difference between Hong Kong and India, which can be eased by recruiting local employees and learning from the local partner. Another one would be the high tax burden induced by the Indian government, which would be remedied by leveraging the overall operating cost. 7. References 1. Hong Kong Airlines official website http://www.hongkongairlines.com 2. Fortune Wings Club official website http://ffp.hnair.com/FFPCluben/ 3. Hong Kong Airlines’ Fly & Care programme http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nx99gmWh8hI 4. Hong Kong Airlines advertising media introduction, NINGBO airline media & Co. Ltd, 2011 http://wenku.baidu.com/view/38e6dd2f453610661ed9f4c3.html 5. Dragonair official website http://www.dragonair.com/da/en_INTL/homepage 6. Introduction of Dragonair, SUMMIT MEDIA 7. Tiger Airways, Wikipedia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tiger_Airways 8. Hong Kong Airlines, Wikipedia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hong_Kong_Airlines 9. Hong Kong Airlines, Asia’s fastest growing carrier, looks to become reckoning force in the region, CAPA, 15 November 2012 http://centreforaviation.com/analysis/hong-kong-airlines-asias-fastest-growing-carrier-looks-to-become-reckoning-force-in-the-region-86233 10. Launching low cost carriers in emerging Asia: Is now the time?, Travel Daily Asia, 2012 http://www.traveldailymedia.com/asia/launching-low-cost-carriers-in-emerging-asia-is-now-the-time 11. Indian Outbound Travel, India International Travel Mart http://www.iitmindia.com/uploads/iitmindia/India%20Outbound%20Travel%20-%20A%20Report.pdf 12. Legislative Council Panel on Economic Development, Hong Kong Tourism Board, Work Plan for 2013-2014 http://www.legco.gov.hk/yr12-13/english/panels/edev/papers/edev0225cb1-565-3-e.pdf 13. The development of the low cost airline industry in Asia http://www.ukessays.com/essays/tourism/low-cost-airline-industry-in-asia.php#ixzz2Qddj87mW 14. Rupee falls most in 4 months on global dollar strength, Reuters, The times of India, May 10, 2013 http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/Rupee-falls-most-in-4-months-on-global-dollar-strength/articleshow/19989344.cms 15. Outbound tourism market from India grows: Four emerging trends, Malini Goyal, ET Bureau, The Economic Times, Apr 14, 2013 http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2013-04-14/news/38529310_1_direct-flights-indians-thai-airways 16. India – Outbound, LiveBean http://www.livebeanhospitality.com/pdf/unravel-the-indian-roap-trick.pdf 17. India internet usage stats and telecommunications market report, internet world stats http://www.internetworldstats.com/asia/in.htm 18. Understanding Growth Markets: China & India, Nielsen http://www.tnhindia.in/statistics_kit/statistics.pdf 19. Hong Kong Airlines’ Bauhinia Miles Programme http://www.hongkongairlines.com/en_HK/buddyclub/about 20. Foreign airlines see beyond clouds in India http://www.ft.com/intl/cms/s/0/38d491ee-7be5-11e2-99f0-00144feabdc0.html#axzz2Seqza9VO ——————————————– [ 1 ]. Hong Kong Airlines official website http://www.hongkongairlines.com/en_HK/aboutus/ourfleet [ 2 ]. Fortune Wings Club official website http://ffp.hnair.com/FFPCluben/ [ 3 ]. Hong Kong Airlines’ Fly & Care programme http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nx99gmWh8hI [ 4 ]. Hong Kong Airlines’ official website http://www.hongkongairlines.com/en_HK/aboutus/awards [ 5 ]. Hong Kong Airlines’ advertising media introduction, NINGBO airline media&CO.LTD, 2011 http://wenku.baidu.com/view/38e6dd2f453610661ed9f4c3.html [ 6 ]. Dragonair official website http://www.dragonair.com/da/en_INTL/homepage [ 7 ]. Dragonair introduction, SUMMIT MEDIA [ 8 ]. Tiger Airways, Wikipedia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tiger_Airways [ 9 ]. Hong Kong Airlines, Wikipedia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hong_Kong_Airlines [ 10 ]. Hong Kong Airlines, Asia’s fastest growing carrier, looks to become reckoning force in the region, CAPA, 15 November 2012 http://centreforaviation.com/analysis/hong-kong-airlines-asias-fastest-growing-carrier-looks-to-become-reckoning-force-in-the-region-86233 [ 11 ]. Hong Kong Airlines, Asia’s fastest growing carrier, looks to become reckoning force in the region, CAPA, 15 November 2012 http://centreforaviation.com/analysis/hong-kong-airlines-asias-fastest-growing-carrier-looks-to-become-reckoning-force-in-the-region-86233 [ 12 ]. Launching low cost carriers in emerging Asia: Is now the time? , Travel Daily Asia, 2012 http://www.traveldailymedia.com/asia/launching-low-cost-carriers-in-emerging-asia-is-now-the-time [ 13 ]. Legislative Council Panel on Economic Development, Hong Kong Tourism Board, Work Pl an for 2013-2014 [ 14 ]. The development of the low cost airline industry in Asia http://www.ukessays.com/essays/tourism/low-cost-airline-industry-in-asia.php#ixzz2Qddj87mW [ 15 ]. Rupee falls most in 4 months on global dollar strength,

Television, Newspaper, Magazine, and Other Media Pay Too Much Attention to the Personal Lives of Famous People

As the coming age of mass media, almost everyone will unavoidablely be influenced by television, newspapers, and even the World Wide Web–the Internet. Famous people are the only group the masses most concern. Convenient media approaches make every day's behaviors of famous people available to average people. Commercial management of media brings about the excessive attention to the personal lives of famous people. To begin with, after television and broadcast, Internet is becoming the most popular and convenient way for information. Because social celebrities are always the focus of news, many websites have to endeavor a lot to publish relevant news. Besides the convenient access to news, Internet is also a fascinating place where normal people can announce their opinions and communicate with each other without obstacles. So the personal lives of famous people could consistently be the hottest issue on the website. Concerning the significant influence of famous people, several well-known news websites established special areas on its websites to provide up-to-date information about famous people’s personal lives. Not just what I have mentioned above, maybe someone merely cannot satisfy about these, and even several public figures start personal websites and blogs to cater for the appetite of the mass. According to recent news, the visit rate of the blog of Xu Jinglei, who is a famous actress in mainland of China, has broken through 1 billion. The blog memorizes almost every details about her work and usual life. In comparison, the relevant websites about mass health care and charity service are not that attractive. Moreover, some cunning news companies always exaggerate the plots about celebrities’ personal affairs for commercial purpose. By reading many different newspapers in USA, you will see that President Bush's pictures published can not be so funny. Those entire pictures exhibit the behaviors of Bush were so awkward and indecent. Why do those newspaper's editors use such pictures? The answer can not be too clear. The editors want to allure as many people as possible by using the people's curiosity to famous people. Obviously, it is the audience who are the very motive for the excessive attention of the media. In conclusion, the convenient media approaches and the curiosity of ordinary people render the personal lives of famous people always open for discussing and debating, and media has pay too much attention about these.

John Donne’s Poetic Philosophy of Love

John Donne's Poetic Philosophy of Love For the enormously complex and vexed John Donne (1572-1631), the one in whom all â€Å"contraries meet,† (Holy Sonnet 18), life was love—the love of women in his early life, then the love of his wife (Ann More), and finally the love of God. All other aspects of his experience apart from love, it seems, were just details. Love was the supreme concern of his mind, the preoccupation of his heart, the focus of his experience, and the subject of his poetry.The centrality and omnipresence of love in Donne’s life launched him on a journey of exploration and discovery. He sought to comprehend and to experience love in every respect, both theoretically and practically. As a self appointed investigator, he examined love from every conceivable angle, tested its hypotheses, experienced its joys, and embraced its sorrows. As Joan Bennett said, Donne’s poetry is â€Å"the work of one who has tasted every fruit in love’s orc hard. . . † Combining his love for love and his love for ideas, Donne became love’s philosopher/poet or poet/philosopher.In the context of his poetry, both profane and sacred, Donne presents his experience and experiments, his machinations and imaginations, about love. Some believe that Donne was indeed â€Å"an accomplished philosopher of erotic ecstasy† (Perry 2), but such a judgment seems to be too much. Louis Martz notes that â€Å"Donne’s love-poems take for their basic theme the problem of the place of love in a physical world dominated by change and death. The problem is broached in dozens of different ways, sometimes implicitly, sometimes explicitly, sometimes by asserting the immortality of love, sometimes by declaring the futility of love†.Donne was not an accomplished philosopher of eroticism per se, but rather a psychological poet who philosophized about love, sometimes playfully, sometimes seriously. The question, thus, arises as to the nature and content of Donne’s philosophy of love serendipitously expressed in his sacred and profane poetry. I will also argue that this particular philosophical perspective in Donne established the basis for the intimate connection between his profane and sacred poetry in which religious and sexual themes are closely linked and intermeshed.After briefly touching on the intellectual atmosphere in which Donne worked, I will proceed to examine the Ovidian and Petrarchan traditions in Donne’s amatory lyrics, and their respective contributions to his philosophy of love. The subject of Petrarchism was â€Å"love,† of course, emotional and spiritual love â€Å"conceived as a noble way of life, and the lover as an aristocrat of feeling† (Guss 49). Donne’s development in his profane poetry of the nobility and aristocracy of Petrarchan love was by means of these essential themes including, . . . he proem, the initiation of love [â€Å"The Good Morrow†] , the complaint against the lady’s obduracy [â€Å"Twickenham Garden†], the expression of sorrow at parting [â€Å"The Expiration†], the remonstrance against the god Love [Love’s Exchange†], the elegy on the lady’s death [â€Å"A Nocturnal upon St. Lucy’s Day, being the shortest day†], and the renunciation of love [â€Å"Farewell to Love†]. Other common themes are the lady’s eyes, her hair, her illness [â€Å"The Fever†], the dream [â€Å"The Dream†], the token [â€Å"A Jet Ring Sent†], the anniversary of love [â€Å"The Anniversary†], and the definition of love [â€Å"Negative Love†].How can a man and a woman achieve a love which is not based on rank sensuality, and yet which recognizes human physicality and ascribes a proper role and function to the body? How can a man and woman love one another with deep spiritual intensity and soulful devotion, and yet at the same time sto p short of romantic or emotional idolatry? How can both components of humanity—body and soul—be brought together into a happy synthesis to create a love that eschews the problems of Ovidian immorality and Petrarchan idolatry, but is rather ordinate and rightly ordered?The answers to these questions and the resolution of these tensions are found in Donne’s concept of idealized love generated largely under the influence of a Christian Platonism which establishes the sine qua non of his philosophy of love. It is a philosophy of love that seeks to balance the roles and establish right relations between both body and soul. Donne’s perspective is an attempt at integration, at wholeness, a striving at the reconciliation of opposing, dialectical forces.It seems that ever since the fall of humanity, life has been characterized by division and fragmentation: God vs. man, heaven vs. earth, man vs. woman, body vs. soul, action vs. contemplation, theory vs. practice, and so on. Donne seeks to heal and harmonize at least one aspect of a divided world: his view is body and soul, not body or soul. He defines and describes the component parts of love in light of the comprehensive nature of humanity. His position would seem to answer the questions and resolve the tensions created by the Ovidian and Petrarchan traditions in his love poetry.It would avoid the Ovidian problem of sexual immorality, and Petrarchan problem of romantic idolatry. Love is powerful, and it may very well abuse the body or the soul in its quest for satisfaction. But it can be rightly ordered as well. Donne’s outlook finds an appropriate place for both the body and the soul in a rightly ordered love. When coupled with his devotional poetry, the pattern indeed becomes complete, for it is in the love of God, which is the highest of all love, that human love itself finds its meaning and final reference point.If it is true that all human love has as its source and meaning in t he very love of God, then there must be a reciprocal relationship between these two forms of love, the infinite and the finite. God’s love validates human love, and human love reflects and images God’s. There is an intimate connection between love both human and divine. This would certainly be true in Donne’s Christian Platonism in which all things on earth, including human love, are a reflection of and point to things in heaven.

Hard Work: Remaking the American Labor Movement By Rick Fantasia and Kim Voss Essay

Hard Work: Remaking the American Labor Movement, by Rick Fantasia and Kim Voss, was published by the University of California Press in 2004. It runs to 259 pages. This book deals with the failures of the American Labor Movement to keep pace with the needs of American workers. It explains how the movement failed when it seemed like it was on the road to success and why it is in the lethargic state in which it finds itself today. It chronicles the attempts being made today to salvage what is left of the movement and its attempts to become a force fighting for social justice in America. One recurring theme of this book is that the people who consider themselves to be both progressive and liberal are constantly amazed that so little they have done and/or advocated has come to fruition or made any difference. They seem stunned to learn that their theories do not work in actual practice. The book documents the actions being initiated in today’s society in an attempt to get off high-center and get on the road to success necessary to keep the American Dream alive. What is now known as the New Economy as proposed by the Neo-liberals has contributed to the steady erosion of worker’s rights and benefits. Fantasia and Voss examine the dot com industry with particular scrutiny, blaming it for the loss of enormous numbers of jobs. The book examines such companies as Amazon, demonstrating how a vast corporation, doing millions in business can be operated with the use of relatively few unskilled and low paid employees, giving them obscene profits and very little overhead. The authors believe that such companies are the wave of the future and if allowed to truly globalize they will be extremely deleterious to workers around the world. They call the New Economy a ‘direct attack on labor’. This book reveals that a key element in many industrialized nations, which is lacking here, is that labor gains are not on a national level, meaning that unions and workers must fight for each concession on a company-by-company basis. In much of the rest of the world a gain by workers is held to be a gain for every worker in that country. The authors trace the history of the union movements for over one hundred years in America. They show that any sort of radicalism displayed by unions or workers was systematically eradicated. They show that what was left in place in each case was a tepid version of what could have been and the result was, intrinsically, a labor union which was in bed with the big corporations, allowing them to strip workers of their rights and fair benefits. This, the authors say, gave labor leaders the idea they were in some sort of perverse partnership with management to the ruin of the workers. Out of this rose the duality of leadership seen in this country. There came to be leadership that ruled by one of two ways, one, a strongman leader, whose ruled a personal fiefdom by decree and the other the bureaucrat in what the authors called the era of tame unionism, which was benign in an era when it should have stood shoulder-to-shoulder in solidarity with its members. During the Reagan era employers realized they were in the drivers’ seats and stripped rights and benefits to the bone while the government stood by or actively abetted them, as did the union leadership. The major premise of this book is that labor must re-invent itself in order to be relevant again. Corporate America is committed to the New Economy, which will never do anything for the worker but further erode any gains made in the past century. American unions and American workers must, the premise goes, regain their initiative and hang solidly together or they will, to paraphrase Benjamin Franklin, all hang separately, so to speak. There are numerous ways of going about rebuilding labor into a potent force for the good of the workers and some of these methods are being seen. There is a tactic known in labor jargon as â€Å"‘bargaining to organize’ and it has become one important tactic of social movement unionists,† (Fantasia, Voss 2004 p 154). During the 1990s labor struck some of Las Vegas’ casinos with mixed results, but what was telling in that situation was that the city’s Black population sided with labor and did much in solidarity with the workers. The strike won at one of the casinos but a second strike dragged on for over six years, making it the longest strike in American history, post World War II. The strike had its moments of high drama and on one occasion a mass demonstration of over twenty thousand people. The unions in Las Vegas actively recruited new members even during the height of the strike. It drew worldwide attention and favorable press for the unions. This, the authors say, is going to continue to be necessary in the future and unions are going to have to actively recruit and actively promote their message. With a strong recruiting drive and overt actions to revitalize what has become a moribund movement in the last few years. Unions must secure leadership from within their own ranks and see that these leaders are not in bed with Corporate America. Fantasia and Voss paint a rather bleak picture of American Labor, as it now exists. They seem to be somewhat optimistic for the future, however, by assuming that a social conscience will develop in this country and the unions will begin to make inroads into the New Economy, forcing corporations to deal with the rights of the working man. They detail some specific innovations designed to fight the domination by the large corporations, addressing such matters as working hours and conditions as well as the incredible disparity between workers’ salaries and executive compensation. There must come a new type of union for workers to be protected in the New Economy and the globalization of corporations. The authors refer to this new union, expected to rise like a phoenix from the ashes the old unions, as more a social order than what is generally thought of as a true labor union. Not to draw parallels, but it was the Polish Union, Solidarity, which brought down the communist government and freed Poland of its mind boggling bureaucratic red tape and the morass of regulations which kept the Polish workers in virtual servitude to the state. The future is not all sunshine and lollipops, however. â€Å"†¦labor retreats from movement building and the percentage of unionized labor force continues to fall,† (162). Not only will this be a disaster for workers, for it will soon reach the point where only a privileged few will have any union strength, such as government employees and professional athletes, with the rest of the workers vanishing off the radar screen. American labor, once the beacon of hope to workers around the world, will become like that of a third world nation and the workers will fight for the peanuts tossed about by their corporate masters. Not only will the worker lose all that he once had in the workplace, the unions’ once powerful voice in American politics, notably in the Democratic Party will cease to exist and the party will no longer pay any attention to the demands of the working man and woman for parity and job security. There will no incentive for them to bow to any demands for the union will no longer be able to deliver on either the threat of the carrot or the stick. The authors point out that not only will labor lose its clout on such social issues as minimum wage and job safety, but will eventually lose any ability to weigh in on such matters as free trade agreements and other policies directly affecting the American worker. This country has changed drastically since September 11, and has taken on a siege mentality. It is virtually being ruled by decree of a man who has assumed war-time powers and seems to believe that if something he does is unconstitutional then obviously the constitution needs to be changed. During his first (and disputed) term in office he was abetted by a rubber stamp congress of Republicans and dragged the nation into a disastrous foreign war for dubious reasons which have since been found to be lies and intentional obfuscations. Primarily, however, the union has much more difficulties in such a political climate for it is always difficult to organize and foment change in times of social upheaval and economic downturn (163). The national debt is in the trillions of dollar. â€Å"The context of severe national emergency has been the pretext for invoking the mantle of national security against unions in an effort to accomplish the long term Republican Party goal of denying the right of federal employees to join unions,† (163). The current administration is actively engaged in what Fantasia and Voss refer to as ‘a low intensity war’ on American labor and workers are seeing the result of this ongoing battle. The outcome of this attempt to revitalize labor is by no means certain. One ray of sunshine is that college students today are beginning to see what is happening and they are developing a social conscience such as they have demonstrated in the past for other causes. They have made a difference before. The Labor Union is not dead although it is severely bloodied. Fantasia and Voss seem to think there are two possible futures and which one will occur is largely up to the success or failure of the labor movement.