Illegal Immigration Essay Essay

About all of us can state we are kids of immigrants. Either our great grandparents or grandparents came to America for a better life. We know that the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island are the symbols of that great dream that so many sought so many old ages ago. During a visit to Ellis Island last summer I learned that during the early 1900’s we encouraged in-migration because it was a clip when our country’s district had grown and we needed more people to assist with the continued development of our state. Today. nevertheless. we find that in-migration is non seen as a positive for our state. but instead it is unimpeachably considered a job today in America. Immigration jurisprudence is in the intelligence a batch and in-migration policy is a large subject discussed in Congress ; it is even a major issue for Obama’s disposal. Some people in authorities believe that we should â€Å"close the door† and cut down the sum of people coming into our state ; particularly as it relates to the jobs we have had with terrorist activities. But. I believe that the chief job with in-migration is non the legal immigrants who come here following the regulations. but instead it’s the illegal immigrants who sneak into our state over boundary lines and so put a load on our societal services and do harm to our state. So. what is the solution? Presently there are about 12 million illegal immigrants in America and that makes it merely excessively expensive and a large undertaking to merely behave all of them at one clip. so we need a better program ; something must be done. Illegal in-migration inflicts a great menace to America. Aside from the belief that illegal immigrants are stealing occupations from our ain citizens and the legal immigrants. but some illegal immigrants are doing offenses. In a 2006 survey from January 1999 to April 2006 about 260. 000 illegal immigrants committed about 1 million sex discourtesies in America. Besides illegal immigrants today make up 30 % prison population in America. A subject that has been on the intelligence frequently in other provinces where there is a batch of illegal immigrant offense is overcrowding of prisons. Many illegal immigrants are coming over and do offenses and jeopardizing the American citizens. But non all illegal immigrants are bad some illegal immigrants are here because they are seeking to do a better unrecorded for themselves. Illegal in-migration besides has a great cost every bit good. Illegal immigrant families imposed. in entire. costs transcending $ 26 billion for the federal authorities. while these immigrants paid merely 16 billion dollars in federal revenue enhancements. hence making a financial shortage of $ 10. 4 billion per twelvemonth at the federal degree. The largest subscribers to this shortage were Medicaid with $ 2. 5 billion. medical intervention for the uninsured with $ 2. 2 billion. food-assistance plans with $ 1. billion. the federal prison and tribunal systems with $ 1. 6 billion. and federal assistance to schools with $ 1. 4 billion. While I believe there are excessively many illegal immigrants to hold them all deported. I do believe that those illegal immigrants who are taking up condemnable activities are the 1s that should be deported ; instead than set in our already overcrowded gaols. I think the other illegal immigrants who really want to go a citizen and do a life for themselves should be able to come frontward. and if they pass condemnable background cheques and pay fees and punishments. they can so be eligible for a probationary legal position. Agricultural workers and those who entered as kids should besides be eligible for the same plan. This would supply a procedure and a manner to command the sum of people coming to the state. These persons would wait until bing legal in-migrations become citizens. so they can acquire in line to go a legal immigrant. I think another thing that could be done is have a startup visa for immigrants who want to come here and get down a concern. If their concern does turn further and is successfu. they should so hold the option to remain for good. This would make more occupations and beef up the community. I think we should besides hold plans set up that would assist new immigrants coming over discovery occupations or a list of people to name for work. I besides think we should hold plans to verify the eligibility of a worker to assist employers find people who are available to work. In the president’s program he had a plan called E-verify. I agree with his program to spread out the usage of this plan. One of the last things I think we should hold in our in-migration policy is something that encourages instruction. For illustration. immigrant kids who attend college could besides gain recognition toward citizenship. I besides believe that all immigrants registering for lasting position should besides be required to larn English within 5 old ages of their reaching. It’s crazy that our state spends all that money and clip with â€Å"English as 2nd language† categories in schools and in communities. If I decided to travel unrecorded in Italy. that authorities would non get down to interpret all their marks and advertisement so that I could understand it. Nor would they pay for me to go to particular categories to larn their linguistic communication. If I decided to populate and work in Italy. it would be my duty to larn the Italian linguistic communication before I go at that place or try to go a citizen at that place. Unfortunately. in-migration continues to be a job chiefly because our state can’t handle the immense inflow of people desiring to come here. Although our state was founded by â€Å"immigrants† . we no longer are capable of covering with all the other issues like instruction. occupations. health care and lodging. that come with leting more people to come to our state. I understand there is no easy reply. but I do believe we need to do certain we are protecting our state and our citizens foremost.

Marketing Analysis of Gloria Jean’s Essay

Australian Coffee Making industry Australian coffee industry continues to mature and surge ahead. Australia has emerged as one of the most discerning and profitable coffee locations in the world, and the amazing monetary figures spent on coffee in Australia each year support global perceptions that Australians are in a position to judge the merits of good coffee. Over the past five years, Australia’s Cafes and Coffee Shops industry has demonstrated itself to be a complex, highly competitive and successful industry. Industry players have benefited immensely from the nation’s love of quality coffee, which steered the industry through the recent economic downturn, during which it outperformed rival hospitality industries such as restaurants and catering. Specialty coffee shops in Australia are becoming a lucrative sector, as a result of a growing coffee culture and increasing franchising opportunities. Australia’s strong coffee drinking culture has heavily influenced growth in specialty coffee shops , especially among the younger generation Gloria Jean’s in Australian Market Gloria Jean’s Coffees is dedicated to offering the world’s highest quality specialty coffee – from bean to cup. Australian owned and locally operated, the Gloria Jean’s Coffees family now stretches far and wide across the globe, with over 1,000 coffee houses in 39 countries. It is combination of passion, commitment to their communities and dedication to delivering the highest quality coffee to their guests that unites their global team in the same Vision – to be the most loved and respected coffee company in the world. Gloria Jean’s Coffees was founded by Gloria Jean Kvetko in 1979 in Chicago, USA. Gloria Jean’s Coffees began as a small coffee and gift shop in Chicago USA which now has over 110 locations throughout the U.S. Gloria Jean’s Coffees USA is owned by Diedrich Coffee, Inc located in Irvine, California. In 1995, Nabi Saleh and Peter Irvine, former Managing Director of advertising agency DDB Needham, visited the United States to sample the Gloria Jean’s Coffees brand. Saleh and Irvine identified the opportunity for this brand in Australia, purchasing the international licensing rights from Diedrich Coffee, Inc. They established Jireh International Pty Ltd the company that holds the right to franchise Gloria Jean’s Coffees in Australia, and purchased the rights to the Gloria Jean’s Coffees brand for all other countries from Diedrich Coffee, Inc, with the exceptions of the USA and Puerto Rico. In late 1996, Jireh International Pty Ltd opened the first Gloria Jean’s Coffees store in Miranda, Sydney, and two weeks later another in Eastgardens, also in Sydney. These stores were set up to test the concept in the Australian market. In early 1998, Gloria Jean’s Coffees Australia franchised its first store and within six years had opened 185 stores owned and operated by more than 100 franchisees. In 2003, a franchise opened in Darwin; this meant that the brand was now established in every Australian state and territory. Jireh International Pty Ltd formed a North American Affiliate, Praise International North America, Inc. and as of June 14, 2009, the North American rights were sold by Diedrich Coffee to the American Affiliate of the Australian holding company. Vision of Gloria Jean’s To be the most loved and respected coffee company worldwide. Mission of Gloria Jean’s Gloria Jean’s Coffees is committed to building a unified family, consistently serving the highest quality coffee and providing an outstanding and personalized service in a vibrant store atmosphere. Objective of Report The objective of the report is to identify the corporate and business strategies of Gloria Jean’s, its main competitive strengths and the possible threats that Gloria Jean’s may confront in the future. External Environment Analysis of Australian Coffee Making Industry Macro Environment (Six segments) Analysis Global Segment: Gloria Jean’s Coffees has strongly entering into global markets. It has teamed up with six new Master Franchise Partners in Saudi Arabia, Taiwan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Oman and Azerbaijan. Gloria Jean’s Coffees followers will soon be able to enjoy a handcrafted cup of coffee in these global markets. The groups of consumers are very passionate about brands, especially such global lifestyle brands as Gloria Jean’s Coffees. Economic Segment: Australia has had one of the most outstanding economies of the world in recent years. As a high-growth, low-inflation, low interest rate economy, it is more vibrant than ever before. There is an efficient government sector, a flexible labor market and a very competitive business sector. Gloria Jean’s has taken this opportunity as consumers in Australia have higher disposable income and are willing to spend more. Demographic Segment: Gloria Jean’s Coffee is currently targeting small market segment, young adults segment, which comprises people age 18 to 25 years old, compared to Starbucks, 15 to 64 years old. Besides that, Gloria Jean’s mainly focuses on female customers, where half of the sales came from that particular gender. Political Segment: In Australia there are some rules and regulations that were created for the coffee industry, such as the Fair Trade Certificate and the Rainforest Alliance. Where the Fair Trade certification is an alternative marketing system designed to give the disadvantaged farmers guaranteed prices for their product while The Rainforest alliance focuses on how farms are managed rather than how products are traded. Gloria Jean’s has to follow these rules when they entered into Australian market. Socio-Cultural Segment: Australia’s strong coffee drinking culture has heavily influenced growth in specialty coffee shops, especially among the younger generation. Coffee drinking has become an integral part of the modern lifestyle in Australia and specialty coffee shops have become more than just a place for coffee. This is an advantage for Gloria Jean’s to survive in the Australian market. Technological Segment: Technological developments in the coffee industry are very limited. Ordering is one area where technology can be used. Gloria Jean’s buys and roasts its own coffees – controlling the process from the bean to the cup. Therefore it is important for them to know every aspect of the coffee industry to ensure that the products offered by them are top standard quality products and available at all times. Porter’s Five Forces Analysis According to Porter, there are five forces that determine industry attractiveness and long-run industry profitability. These five â€Å"competitive forces† are— (a) The threat of entry of new entrants, (b) The threat of substitutes, (c) The bargaining power of buyers, (d) The bargaining power of suppliers and (e) The degree of rivalry between existing competitors. The coffee making industry in respect of Porter’s five forces analysis is given below: Threat of new entrants: There are no barriers to entry in coffee shop market. The cost to set up a new coffee business is proportionately lower than those associated with developing new business in other industries. Even the four largest players within this market only have limited market share, totaling not more than 2% of the business. To open a coffee shop usually only requires small amounts of capital for fixtures, fittings and coffee machines. Baristas and cafà © trained staff are readily available, and to train new staff does not take long and is not costly. So we can say that it is the high threat of new entrants. Bargaining power of buyers: It is very easy for coffee buyers to consume different coffee and other options. In urban locations, there are numerous options for coffee drinkers. Cafà © can be located on practically every corner in all major cities in Australia. Additionally a number of restaurants and diners serve coffee, as do some fast food chains. Individuals can also drink instant coffee or use coffee vending machines. So there is high bargaining power of buyers. Rivalry among competitors: As there are a number of competitors in the market, rivalry can be considered to be fairly high. In many instances, competitors operate next door to one another. It is not uncommon for cafà © strips to surround office complexes and major urban entertainment venues. In more sub urban environments, cafes are still littered throughout shopping malls, coffee stalls are commonly visible. So we can say that rivalry of competitors is high. Bargaining power of supplier: Suppliers cannot influences cafes as much as is possible in other industries. Due to the number of cafes in the market, working relationships are often not that close. Coffee beans are a highly traded commodity in both developed nations and in the developing world where much of the produce is grown. This leads to an effectively developed and efficient market in the trade of coffee beans. The result is that both originating and whole sale suppliers cannot compete much on price differentiation. They must instead differentiate via the quality of their beans. So we can say that there is weak bargaining power of suppliers. Threat of substitute: As mentioned previously, customers are able to switch to rival cafes at little or no cost. Quite often to use a substitute cafà © involves walking an additional ten to hundred meters in highly urbanized areas. There are also countless other venues that can be used for social meetings, such as pubs, restaurant and the like. Business meetings can be held at offices or at the venues mentioned above. Coffee is also substituted quite regularly by tea and other caffeine products. It can also be substituted by instant products that are widely available in supermarkets. There are now a number of powdered mock cafà © options available at different stores. Coffee machines are also more affordable and can be used in households. Thus threat of substitute is stronger. As a whole – Threat of new entrants – High Bargaining power of buyers – Strong Rivalry among competitors– High Unattractive Industry Threat of substitutes– High Bargaining power of suppliers – WeakLow Profit Potential Internal Environment Analysis of Gloria Jean’s Resources of Gloria Jean’s Resources are inputs into a firm’s production process, such as capital, equipment, and the skills of individual employees, patents, finance, and talented managers. Resources are either tangible or intangible in nature. With increasing effectiveness, the set of resources available to the firm tends to become larger. 1. Tangible resources * Financial resources * Physical resources * Technological resources * Organizational resources 2. Intangible resources * Human resources * Innovation resources * Reputation resources Gloria Jean’s has to emphasize on both its tangible as well as intangible resources. Gloria Jean’s Coffees management team manages to expand their franchises internationally and have full control over their franchisee. It is trying to boost up their franchise revenue and retail sales. There are currently 470 Gloria Jean’s stores located in Australia, and they serve more than seven million coffees each month. Gloria Jean’s Coffees actually provides an ongoing support for all their franchisee. It is one of a dedicated company that strives and has done countless effort in order to make sure that the products they sell have a huge impact on people’s daily lives. They have continuously developed their beverages to look tempting to attract customers. It has a strong brand image for its premium quality and excellent taste.

Aristotle Biography Essay

Philosopher (c. 384 BCE–c. 322 BCE) Synopsis Ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle was born circa 384 B.C. in Stagira, Greece. When he turned 17, he enrolled in Plato’s Academy. In 338, he began tutoring Alexander the Great. In 335, Aristotle founded his own school, the Lyceum, in Athens, where he spent most of the rest of his life studying, teaching and writing. Aristotle died in 322 B.C., after he left Athens and fled to Chalcis. Early Life Ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle was born circa 384 B.C. in Stagira, a small town on the northern coast of Greece that was once a seaport. Aristotle’s father, Nicomachus, was court physician to the Macedonian king Amyntas II. Although Nicomachus died when Aristotle was just a young boy, Aristotle remained closely affiliated with and influenced by the Macedonian court for the rest of his life. Little is known about his mother, Phaestis; she is also believed to have died when Aristotle was young.After Aristotle’s father died, Proxenus of Atarneus, who was married to Aristotle’s older sister, Arimneste, became Aristotle’s guardian until he came of age. When Aristotle turned 17, Proxenus sent him to Athens to pursue a higher education. At the time, Athens was considered the academic center of the universe. In Athens, Aristotle enrolled in Plato’s Academy, Greek’s premier learning institution, and proved an exemplary scholar. Aristotle maintained a relationship with Greek philosopher Plato, himself a student of Socrates, and his academy for two decades. Plato died in 347 B.C. Because Aristotle had disagreed with some of Plato’s philosophical treatises, Aristotle did not inherit the position of director of the academy, as many imagined hewould.After Plato died, Aristotle’s friend Hermias, king of Atarneus and Assos in Mysia, invited Aristotle to court. During his three-year stay in Mysia, Aristotle met and married his first wifePythias, Hermias’ niece. Together, the couple had a daughter, Pythias, named after her mother. Teaching In 338 B.C., Aristotle went home to Macedonia to start tutoring King Phillip II’s son, the then 13-year-old Alexander the Great. Phillip and Alexander both held Aristotle in high esteem and ensured that the Macedonia court generously compensated him for his work. In 335 B.C., after Alexander had succeeded his father as king and conquered Athens, Aristotle went back to the city. In Athens, Plato’s Academy, now run by Xenocrates, was still the leading influence on Greek thought. With Alexander’s permission, Aristotle started his own school in Athens, called the Lyceum. On and off, Aristotle spent most of the remainder of his life working as a teacher, researcher and writer at the Lyceum in Athens. Because Aristotle was known to walk around the school grounds while teaching, his students, forced to follow him, were nicknamed the â€Å"Peripatetics,† meaning â€Å"people who travel about.† Lyceum members researched subjects ranging from science and math to philosophy and politics, and nearly everything in between. Art was also a popular area of interest. Members of the Lyceum wrote up their findings in manuscripts. In so doing, they built the school’s massive collection of written materials, which by ancient accounts was credited as one of the first great libraries. In the same year that Aristotle opened the Lyceum, his wife Pythias died. Soon after, Aristotle embarked on a romance with a woman named Herpyllis, who hailed from his hometown of Stagira. According to some historians, Herpyllis may have been Aristotle’s slave, granted to him by the Macedonia court. They presume that he eventually freed and married her. Regardless, it is known that Herpyllis bore Aristotle children, including one son named Nicomachus, after Aristotle’s father. Aristotle is believed to have named his famed philosophical work Nicomachean Ethics in tribute to his son. When Aristotle’s former student Alexander the Great died suddenly in 323 B.C., the pro-Macedonian government was overthrown, and in light of anti-Macedonia sentiment , Aristotle was charge with impiety. To avoid being prosecuted, he left Athens and fled to Chalcis on the island of Euboea, where he would remain until his death.

Exectutive Coaching Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Exectutive Coaching - Essay Example And Terry Larsen wants to turn the bully nature style of management environment into caring and more open cooperate culture which is made up of mutual trust, teamwork, spirit and respect. In the time of Yvette Hyater-Adams and Terry Larsen, they both aimed on these issues and arranged and conducted workshops and training conferences related to diverse cultural, gender discrimination and diversity. The main issues which CoreStates was going through were also the same. There were these inside politics which were eating the environment of organization like termite. So the main issues which a company was going through were culture issues, lack of respect, openness towards diversity, mutual learning, lack of teamwork and trust. Hyater Adams and Terry Larsen though both were from different background believed in same vision and wanted to bring discipline and mentor the people of organization. So they aimed to improve the cultural relation of workers in Corestate. OCCURANCE OF ISSUES: When Hyater Adams joined the Corestate, she being a black woman has always faced hard difficulties. She wanted to apply her broad vision of culture and diversity to the people of Corestate. Being a vice president she had a position to bring and apply her vision which was not an idea leading to personal betterment but to the organization. Tarry Larsen and Hyater Adams

Journals Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 2

Journals - Essay Example during the World economic Outlook (WEO), the IMF, however, noted that the growth would be quite sluggish and it would not be able do much to prevent further unemployment across the globe. It also added a word of caution about credit crunches and lesser demands during the recovery period. A much better growth is forecast primarily for 2010 with an expansion of about 3.1%. The IMF forecast for Britain is a weaker growth in the remaining of 2009 and a 0.9% rate for 2010, three times more than the previously expected rate of 0.2%. Europe, North America and Japan are expected to show a moderate growth of 1.3% next year, while the largest growth rate has been predicted for China and India at 9% and 6.4% respectively. Thus Asia is been predicted to lead the economical growth from the front during 2010. However, unemployment is expected to remain on a high in most developing countries even next year especially in the US, Germany, France and Italy. The WEO has attributed this resurgence to strong public policies that have been initiated by many world economies together with the large cuts in interest rates by Central Banks. The IMF also warned against complacency as it would not do any good to improve the situation further. The current recovery has been attributed mainly to increased public spending and inventory adjustments and the IMF adds that a sustained recovery will require careful balancing of private and public demands and also between countries with large current accounts and those showing current account deficits. The article stresses that there will be a sure recovery and there will not any global economic meltdown as previously forecasted and adds that this road to recovery will have its own share of hurdles and only a proper balancing act between surplus and deficit economic countries will help to achieve complete recovery. There is also no forecast of an immediate improvement in unemployment rates due to the sluggish growth to recovery. A complacent

Reflective Report includee 2 tasks M Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Reflective Report includee 2 tasks M - Essay Example My expectation from UK was to find and acquire quality education applicable in the current global job market. I also expected to combine work and study in order to finance my personal needs, acquire valuable work experience as well as improve my professional network. I have learned how to live in a multicultural environment since I came to the UK even though there were a lot of challenges in adapting to the life in UK. I have also become a more sociable and confident person from interacting with individuals from diverse backgrounds. I have been exposed to different experiences and cultures of which I wouldn’t have if I was not in the UK. Before I came to the UK I was very shy unlike now. It was not easy for me to make major decision all by myself but the experience here has made me more independent. Among the things I have learnt at Greenwich is how to combine both the theoretical and practical aspects of my studies in real life situations. This has been very helpful to me sin ce theory doesn’t always aid one in getting a placement, an internship or a job. Given that English is not my first language, communication proved quite an uphill task for me at first but I eventually had to learn how to use it fluently. I have learnt to improve my English by wide range of educative books such as those which target international student learning English. This was very useful in the beginning since English in such books is written in a manner that is somewhat simplified. This made it easy for me to learn and understand English. I also sharpened my skills by frequently watching English TV episodes. This made learning more fun. I also engaged in discussions with my fellow student. This improved my communication skills since I can now confidently express myself in English. Since I started learning at the Greenwich University, my study skills have greatly improved. I have learnt to always prepare for my classes at the most appropriate time. For classes that involv e recitation, I spend time making questions regarding previous recitation, brushing up on the facts I have and try to memorize them. In the case of lecture classes I make sure I review my notes and organize them appropriately. I have also come to learn to study at the time when I feel fresh and vibrant. In my case, early morning hours are my favorite. In the night times, I am usually tired making reading at such a time is ineffective. Since I work and study at the same time, I believe I have excellent employability skills. I am therefore in a good position to get a full-time job in my home country after I graduate. I was also able to make professional contacts back at my home country through networking skills I acquired here in the UK. My communication skills will enable be work efficiently with people from various regions while at my home country. The knowledge which I have acquired at Greenwich University is of high standards and globally recognized. This will help me climb my car eer ladders faster while back at home. I am very delighted to be studying and working in the United Kingdom since I have gained a lot in terms of knowledge and experience. TASK 2 Reflection on Research Preparation The process of preparing for my research was quite interesting. This is because of what I learnt and the challenges which I faced. To begin with, I did not know where to start from since I had not thought of an area in which I

Letting the Big Ones Get Away Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Letting the Big Ones Get Away - Case Study Example This discussion stresses that another standard that applies in respect of prosecutors is that they should refrain from initiating or encouraging efforts to waiver rights from an accused person who is unrepresented. According to Gershman, prosecutors should maintain neutrality. Some of the dilemmas that prosecutors have to deal with include those related to knowing use of false evidence, threatening a person of criminal prosecution with the aim of discouraging them from appearing before the court as a witness. It is also unethical for prosecutors to present false statements of material fact during court proceedings. In the case of the big-name drug dealer and his girlfriend, it is a fact that the prosecutor must uphold justice above his desire for promotion. In addition, he/she should see to it that instead of trying to convict, his duty to justice remains steadfast. Clearly noting, the deal that the drug dealer presents to the prosecutor in respect of transferring his case to his gir lfriend if accepted by the prosecutor will present a situation in which justice is defeated. This is so considering that the big one will be let off the hook and someone innocent in respect of the drugs will be the scapegoat. Furthermore, subjecting the innocent pregnant girl to charges is tantamount to punishing the unborn child for a wrong neither it nor its mother committed. The drug dealer by all means should face justice for his actions. Given that he is well connected and has escaped from the rule of justice several times shows that he is unwilling to change his cause. Furthermore, accepting his offer will result in the defeat of justice in respect of his pregnant girlfriend. However, the strength of the case lies with the girl’s cooperation.  

Race and Educational Inequalities in the United States of America Essay

Race and Educational Inequalities in the United States of America - Essay Example This essay stresses that educators, teachers and men as well as women of conscience living within communities have also made a substantial effort to diminish inequalities in education, improve access and also to enhance the quality of education within the country. After a great struggle for the achievement of equality in education and for the reform of the school system, it can be argued that by and large the government does try to provide schools in which it is possible for children to acquire a decent education. Spending by the government on education in the United States of America is the highest in all OECD countries. This paper makes a conclusion that substantial effort has been made to adequately provide for education in the country, it can only be inferred that some other social phenomenon is interfering with the processes associated with educating children and presenting the gaps that are obvious in educational statistics. Although teachers can try to impart quality education in schools, it becomes very difficult for them to correct the problems that children may be facing outside of school, because the resources are limited and classes can be large. A child does not get educated in school only and is also educated at home. Although, a government can try to assist with improving the poverty situation and perhaps try to correct problems that are encountered in tough neighborhoods, it is difficult for a government to change the culture that is made available to a child at home and to change racial culture, unless the problems are severe.

The European Union Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

The European Union - Essay Example The European countries have a historic distaste for Americans and therefore, the nations do not want to do business with the superpower. The European need to safeguard their national and cultural boundaries compelled them to form a coalition that goes by the name of European Union. The member nations are having a common currency that they are using to fight the supremacy of American dollar. The origins of European Union are stemming from the prehistoric grudge which is present in Americans and Europeans for ages. The nation of England refused to join EU because of its close and friendly ties with America but presently, the nation is going through the rough times as it is alone in the international community of nations. The functions of European Union include facilitation of trade activities and mitigating national level disputes within member nations. The holistic purpose of the body is to help the region in becoming self sufficient and free from influence of America. The economic development and growth are the names of forces that can assist any nation or group of nations in the process of upholding their cultural and societal values. Rest of the world is busy in adapting their values in order to reflect more degree of Americanization. The nations of Europe are not willing to do that and because of this reason, they have created the featured institution. The European Union also governs defense agreements and renders help to distressed nations as well. The structure of the EU is not solid in nature and its offices are scattered across various cities in the European sector. The strategic leadership and direction is provided by the committees of European parliament. Nevertheless, the European parliament has been developed with the help of providing adequate representation to each and every member nation. The idea of EU is a practical application of pooling all resources and building synergetic relations and linkages. The European Union is a

Mother and Daughter, a Heavenly Relationship Failed Essay Example for Free

Mother and Daughter, a Heavenly Relationship Failed Essay Daughter and mother relationship is an endless topic for many writers. They are meant to share the bond of love and care for each other. In the real world, however, their relationship is not as successful as it ought to be. The stories How to Talk to Your Mother and I Stand Here Ironing are the examples of this conflict. Lorrie Moore is distinguished for the clever wordplay, irony and sardonic humor of her fiction. How to Talk to Your mother is a short story in her collection Self-Help. It is about a failed relationship of a daughter and her mother over time. Similarly, Tillie Olsens I Stand Here Ironing portrays powerfully the economic and domestic burdens a poor woman faced, as well as the responsibility and powerlessness she feels over her childs life. Both stories have the same theme, but each has different technique, and the conflicts from the characters are opposite. Poor communication over time is the theme both stories share. In How to Talk to Your Mother, Ginny, the author, faded the relationship with her mother as time goes and things changed from 1939 to 1982. In 1952, Ginny started to break away by slamming the door and say Dont I know it (Moore 105) when her mother asks about her crush in junior high. Then, she becomes a young adult with a new life and would not come home for holidays. However, it is not until her mother called her by her sisters name that makes she feels uncomfortable. Learn that you have a way of knowing each other which somehow slips out and beyond the ways you have of not knowing each other at all (Moore 103). The simply How to title belies the complexities of broken communication between mother and daughter. Ginny attempts to communicate with her mother throughout decades, but it never works. In I Stand Here Ironing, the mother faced the same problem with poor communication. Readers feel deeply sorry for the mother as she is economically alone, lonely, overworked and tired. The mother is always busy and preoccupied with other children. I was working, there were four smaller ones now, there was not time for her (Olsen 191). She has little or no time to talk to Emily, the daughter. The only time they met each other is at night, when Emily is struggle over books and the mother be ironing, or do other house chores. In both stories, the mothers and daughters have really  poor communication. Each character has her own life and stared to ignore their love ones. Ginny lives her wild life with romance. On the other hand, the mother in I Stand Here Ironing is so busy with her low-class life. As a result, their relationship failed as time rolls. Although both stories share similarity, each story was written with different styles, point-of-views, and languages. Lorrie Moore presents How to Talk to Your Mother in reverse chronological order, from latest to earliest. This technique supports her main idea by illustrating the broken communication pattern existing since the narrators childhood. With this style, readers find it amusing as they can read forward or backward. Moreover, this kind of writing is very rare in literature. Tillie Olsens I Stand Here Ironing was written in a traditional flashback. It started with the mother blaming herself for Emilys outturn. Then, she remembered all the life events that result in bad decisions she made for Emily. Both stories also have different point-of-view. How to Talk to Your Mother is told in second-person, using you, instead of I. The second-person narration distances the narrator from the pain inflicted by her mother, father, and lovers. This is Moores clever choice. Readers can relate and sympathize with Ginny. On the other hand, I Stand Here Ironing is told in first-person. The mother is telling readers about her faults and her attempts to help Emily through difficult years. Readers can see the hardship the mother faced and understand her situation. Nevertheless, Moore writes the story like one would write in her diary, very informal. The full title is How to Talk to Your Mother (Notes), and the language is not very aesthetic. On the contrast, Olsen writes her story in formal, literature language. In response to her story, Helen Pike Bauer writes: Olsens story is a dialogue between circumstances and desire, constraint and love, absence and presence, silence and speech, power and helplessness. The conflicts of each character are opposite. The primary conflict in How to Talk to Your Mother is between Ginny and herself. She feels like she has her own life and her mother becomes annoying. In 1971, she wrote: Go for long walks to get away from her. Walk through wooded area; there is a life you have forgotten (Moore 103). Throughout the story, readers can see the  broken relationship is resulted from the external events of her life. She has three abortions and involving many relationships with men that she dont even like. Sometimes you confuse her with the first man you ever love, who ever loved you (Moore 102). Ginny almost blamed herself for their relationship. Her mom is always there, in her house since 1967. A year before death, her mother tells her: Is that any way to talk to your mother (Moore 101)? While Ginny experienced the external conflict of her life, the mother in I Stand Here Ironing faced an internal conflict involving Emily. She makes a very meaningful statement at the end of story: help Emily to know that she is more than this dress on the ironing board, helpless before the iron (Olsen 193). The mother constantly referred to the bad decisions she had made for Emily during her childhood. She sent Emily to live with her relatives as a toddler and came back with all baby loveliness gone (Olsen 188). Then, she sent her off again to a convalescent home. These decisions caused the mother to constantly nag at her internal self. Emily turned to a comedic teen is the result of the mothers ignorant and poor relationship, which makes the mother blaming herself. She feels like the conflict is caused by her and Emily deserved a better life. Thackeray says, God cannot be everywhere and therefore he made mother. Parents are the caretaker of their children. From their experiences, they know what is best and they would never mean ill for them. How to Talk to Your Mother and I Stand Here Ironing are short stories that remind readers to cherish their relationships with parents. Both stories have the same theme of communication, but each has different technique, and the conflicts from the characters are opposite. Their situations are very difficult: poverty, low-class, and early motherhood. Lorrie Moore writes How to Talk to Your Mother to mock the popular How-to style. She marks off each stage of the plot by repeated works and ideas of heart, babies, containers, and unsuccessful talks between mother and daughter. Tillie Olsen writes I Stand Here Ironing with many symbolisms. For example, the iron is the torment, outside pressures. The dress is her problem, or Emily. The mother is ironing out the problem from inside her heart. Both stories carry the same message of mother and daughter relationship that most people faced the same path. In the society right now, there are many children experienced  child abuses. As for many parents, they could not get their kids to listen to them. The heavenly relationship failed as lives go on.

Via Verde Case Study Analysis

Via Verde Case Study Analysis Introduction The sustainability in real estate development is fundamental, however, what kind of manner can be sustainable in it is more crucial (Kwame, Liow, and Neo, 2009). In real estate development, this case study has discussed about affordable housing through ten aspects: site, concept, development team, development and approval process, development finance, planning and design, sustainability and healthy living, sales and leasing, management and performance, and observation and lessons learned. Ultimately, notifying some challenges that development might face. Via Verde is a project from the New York City about regeneration the brownfield in Bronx with 222 units mixed-income affordable housing development for rental and ownership with a healthier lifestyle to address health issues, and leads to a new recycling neighbourhood. It is a good example in affordable housing which involves both public and private sectors and city agencies who play key roles on approval and financing. In regulatory management, it performs well. Via Verde had components against green regulation of the city, however, city authorities permit amnesty, which conducts feasibility and flexibility of development. In terms of regulation, it was instituted and had no barrier to develop this project. The decision of planning is through the competition to select the most innovative and creative proposal for the unique site with lots of public and private sectors involved into it in financial, regulatory, planning, material aspects to produce maximum outcome with limited sources. Goals Via Verde planned to create an innovative, high-quality and sustainable housing for mixed-income family with affordable rental or ownership housing. It wants to achieve goal about healthy lifestyle to address problems of high rate of asthma and obesity in children in South Bronx area by green roof, open areas and motivated encouragement of outdoor activities, such as, vegetable garden, green club or indoor fitness centre, which providing resident a location or motivation to involve into green programme and rebuild their lifestyle. The Site Via Verde locates in northeast of Manhattan which is roughly 6.5 miles to the south to midtown Manhattan with fully developed tube and bus system. It sites in the South Bronx, which is one of New Yorks boroughs. It is four blocks away from the nearest tube station, and several bus routes nearby, which are easily access by foot or bike. However, the site is a long narrow and 1.5- acre triangle at the corner of a block, it is hard to develop as a massive affordable housing. In terms of educational aspect, there are some schools nearby, and colleges, where are easy to reach. Via Verde locates in a well location with well life functions, one of the largest park in the city, commercial centre on the nearby station. In 1960s and 70s, the area was suffered by high percentages of crime, especially violence and urban decay with high rates of residents outflow. A wave of arson fires had destroyed lots of buildings and left vacant, ultimately, were obtained by the city- public authority. In the late 1980s, communities have started regeneration and rehabilitation in this area with building new housing and improvement of facilities. The population had declined from roughly 1.47 million to 1.17 million and it has rebounded to 1.41 million by 2013. Bronx is known as poverty, the poorest borough in five of New York City. Large amount of working class family here with around $35,000 income, which is lowest in New York City and 28.5% of residents live in poverty. Therefore, Via Verde development has changed the decay of this area in 2009. The Concept The first process-stage of Via Verde project is as an entry in New York Housing competition, which is sponsored by public sectors and non-profit organization- the city of New York Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD), the New York city chapter of American Institute of Architects, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) and Enterprise Foundation. It was the first competition for affordable housing and sustainable housing in the city. The competition was held in 2006 with some aspects and requirements- provoking innovative design and planning to address the housing production issues, resolving affordability, sustainability, transferability, and viability, illustrating how to lower cost of building, and fostering healthy, affordable with well-designed dwelling. 5 out of 32 teams with developers and architects were selected into the final competition, they were requested to refine the proposal of their design. Ultimately, a team with two developers and two architects were chosen to build this project with support by the city and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has provided $145,000 for environmental uses and improvement. Private city agencies play a key role as representatives in this project after competition to look after in approvals and financing process, maintaining the quality and the innovative features. Instead of using their own ideas, local communities also provide their aspects of affordable housing and green design and healthy living components to development team. The Development Team The two developers in the team are Phipps Houses and Jonathan Rose Companies. Phipps Houses is one of the oldest developer in New York City, which has developed lots of projects of affordable housing, focusing on human development to foster better residency for community and residents. Jonathan Rose Companies is a national integrated real estate company with investment management, development, project management, and planning, which concentrating on developing resilient communities. The designers are Dattner Architects and Grimshaw Architects. Dattner specializes in housing and educational, creative and innovative urban design. Contrary, Grimshaw has been worked in Bronx for many years for revitalization, a local firm which may understand the environment and residency better. This team with two developers and two architects has fully achieved primary conditions of Via Verde project, focusing on green programme, residents, community, affordable housing and localized company. The Development and Approval Process The narrow site which belongs to the city was hard to develop, additionally, the project required unusual approvals for developing, planning and environmental remediation. The city agencies who had responsibility to check the process, in terms of the unique features, it is fundamental for the project to have city agencies shepherd it. This project was supported by the city authority, which is easier for unique development like Via Verde, especially in regulation. The massive development with 222 units wasnt allowed to build in this narrow site, which needed amnesty for it. The development team coped with authorities and solved the problems together, conducting the feasibility of this project. It had more flexible process in the development than others. However, there was parking issue, normally, the residential development is required to build with parking lot, the site of Via Verde was too small for such huge amounts of residents. Nevertheless, the development team has successfully argued about it with the location where is easy to access public transportation, including tube and buses, additionally, there is a huge parking garage nearby. Eventually, the project is accepted without parking in Via Verde. The community from this area had proposed their desire to the development team, they were looking forward to addressing issues of Bronx through Via Verde project. They wish to have affordable housing with for-sale component and resolving the health issues in high rate of childhood asthma. Development Finance Paul Freitag, managing director of Jonatha Rose Companies, which is one developer of the Via Verde project, asserts that development of affordable housing is difficult and complex from different aspects, such as, financing, and planning. However, this project has supported by several different resources, such as, grants, loans, tax, credits, and other funding mechanisms from 19 public, private and non-profit authorities and organizations. Fortunately, the development team obtained the site for $1 from NYC Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) to support affordable housing. The development of Via Verde had arranged with $98.8 million, which were divided into co-op and rental parts, roughly $32 million was arranged to build 71 units of co-op housing for middle-class family, and there was taxable bonds from the New York City Housing Development Corporation (HDC) with floated rate during construction from JP Morgan Chase line of credit, and supporting by HDC, HPD, the borough presidents office, the New York City Council, the New York State Affordable Housing Corporation and NYSERDA. The $66.6 million was assigned for the rest 151 units of rental which were for low-class family, and taxable bonds from HDC with same condition for co-op, 9% federal low-income housing tax credits (LIHTCs) from New York State Homes and Community Renewal and HPD, supporting by HDC, the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York Affordable Housing Programme, and NYSERDA. Eventually, the project exceeded 10% more in cost than expected, mostly used for green features in brownfield remediation, due to poor geographical conditions. Planning and Design The goals of this project are healthier lifestyle and sustainable housing for range incomes households through numerous outdoor activities, good views, and lots of experiences which residents may never had. Three buildings built with good view and facing south, which is better absorbing solar energy. Not only the solar panels on the roof, but also green roof with vegetable and fruit garden provides residents plant and social. Via Verde is designed for rental and ownership, and there is no barrier between them. The developers planned to build a completely new form of affordable housing, instead of red bricks in the past, they selected prefabricated panels with colourful design, which are localized manufacture. Besides, windows are large and operable for good ventilation indoor. Surprisingly, they utilized waterproof layer from localized company with official certificated by LEED programme. From the green rood, windows, air ventilation, waterproof layer, these designs are toward to create a sustainable and healthy residency. Sustainability and Healthy Living The green roof of Via Verde provides not only a place to plant, but also to exercise. Besides, outdoor activities area, there is also an indoor fitness with variety of classes for residents. The design is sufficiently for environmental sustainability on saving energy and cost by using and doing recycling, such as, trash recycle, rainwater recycle system, solar energy system, material choosing, and encourage residents take stairs instead of lifts. From the beginning, the main goal of development is to address health issues in this area. The location provides good motivation for residents to walk more, with tube, school and green parks nearby, which may help to improve it. Additionally, medical centre and pharmacy are located in the ground floor. Sales and Leasing The 151 units of rental are 30 years leasing, earning 40-60 % of area median income, on the other hand, 71 units of co-ops are earning 70-100 %. Management and Performance Via Verde provides variety of activities to motivate residents in healthy lifestyle, such as, vegetable garden where they can grow natural vegetable and fruit and cheaper price of organic food for them, exercises club to encourage them. In the garden club, which is supported and educated by non-profit organization-Grow NYC in sustainable and professional manners. Community gardens, environmental education and recycling programme, these are associating with neighbourhoods to support and modify residents into healthier lifestyle. Via Verde has established a wide range classes community, they are equal, having no barrier, all residents can entrance any common areas or use common facilities. Owners and renters can be member of garden club. There are social events to increase relationship between residents and emphasize the goals of Via Verde. Such as, volunteering to involve communitys events. Annual newsletter provides communication between residents and management, residents are able to transmit their thoughts directly. When the conflicts happen, staff can conclude it instantaneously, which build communication between either residents or management with anytime concierge allowing residents to question or discuss about their considerations and problems. Unlike accustomed affordable housing which normally leads to disappointed and seldom be materialized, Via Verde has evolved into completely new kind of affordable housing with variety of services and events, free dry cleaning for residents fully reserves the expectation of affordable housing. Observation and lessons learned Via Verde has successfully become model of affordable housing development with financial feasibility, and critical acclaim around the USA. Traditionally, there are three forms of affordable housing, developers prefer low-rise, mid-rise is more common, contrary, high-rise is usually seen as faulty for affordable housing from past experiences, especially in huge public projects. However, Via Verde with high-rise component reverses it. With these conditions, Via Verde explosively attracts people, it was designed as rental units, surprisingly, people intend to buy them. Via Verde project wants to build a healthy lifestyle with mixed-income level community in order to address and revitalize poverty issue around South Bronx, resolving problems of health, and more sustainable and vigorous. As a model of affordable housing, Via Verde truly presents and illustrates the cooperation and collaboration between public and private sectors. However, there were difficulties in this development, residents are lack of knowledge in green notion, which is hard for them to adapt into recycling concept. The success of Via Verde is extraordinary, which leads impression changes in affordable housing. Real estate development has stridden forward to another level with higher quality, more comfortable design and planning of affordable housing. Challenges This is a massive project with huge number of units and unique requirements. It is difficult for developers to build 222 units into a narrow, triangle brownfield, which needs innovative and creative ideas to achieve. The model which includes all information has proved the feasibility of the development with acceptable financing and flexible development team and authorities. The aims are healthier lifestyle through recycling and more exercises and organic vegetable or fruit. However, difficulties are lack of knowledge in green lifestyle, and adapting into rules. Via Verde received lots of resources from public and private authorities. In order to replicate the same success from Via Verde, others need to consider about sources which may not be same as them. Conclusion The model of Via Verde development clear in information, however, it is ambiguous about difficulties, and how they convinced funding and planning and decision making. Real estate development is a wide and comprehensive scenario, which involves different kind of people, such as, developers, architects, agents, planners, government, and engineers to frame and accomplish. In this case study of affordable housing, stakeholders are mostly pubic authorities, they did not have significant problems. Except zoning issue that size of site didnt conform to the regular regulation, however, authority has given amnesty permission for it, additionally, parking issue, the flexibility of development has successfully coped with it. Once development is facing some issues, public and private sectors will need to figure out and adapt to solutions, and it would sufficiently prove the feasibility of development. The sustainability of development with persistent encouragement and learning is fundamental. Affordable housing isnt always like what we expect, it can be completely different and well with good development. This case study demonstrates how real estate development brings a long-term and sustainable notion into affordable housing through wide range of consideration. References Kwame, A. D., Liow, K. H., Neo, Y. S., 2009. Sustainability of Sustainable Real Property Development.   Sustainable Real Estate, [e-journal] 1(1). 203-225. Available through: University College London Library website [Accessed 18 December 2016]. ULI, 2014. ULI Case Studies-Via Verde. [online] Available at: [Accessed 20 December 2016].

Strategies to Increase Client Retention in Personal Training

Strategies to Increase Client Retention in Personal Training Devise and support a plan to increase long-term client retention and reduce turnover in a personal training context. INTRODUCTION Physical inactivity is one of the leading causes of non-communicable diseases such as Conroy heart diseases, diabetes, and specific types of cancer (World Health Organisation (2010). Withthe development of advance technology, transportation, and household tasks that involves less exertion; this figure is expected to increase (World Health Organisation (2010).With and   an large amount of growing evidence suggesting a positive association between physical activity and physical well-being, less depression, increased cognitive function and slowing down in advancement of Alzheumeirs disease( Rolland et al, 2008).Physical activity is used to define any bodily movement produced by skeletal muscles that result in energy expenditure (Caspersen, et al 1985)which involves walking, jogging, and rock climbing for example. With physical activity being a vital determinant of energy balance, and is therefore important to weight-weight and obesity. Regular physical activity is associated with both enhanced social and economic capital (Cadilhac, et al 2011).With Society being faced by the rising health care and economic costs in part as a result of physical inactivity, individuals, business government have a mutual interest in the promotion of physical activity. The Majority of adults are aware of the benefits of engaging in regular exercise, with 70% of adults proposing that they would like to do more physical activity(Craig, et al 2009). Regardless of knowing the advantages associated with engaging in regular physical activity, most individuals do not take sufficient exercise to accrue the physical and psychological benefits of exercise. For example, the Health Survey for England (2008) pointed out that only 39% of men and 29% of aged 16 and over met the governments recommendations for physical activity, based the data.   In children aged 2 to 15 years, 32% per cent of boys and 24% of girls were classified as meeting the government recommendations. Most individuals in 2013 (90%) did not know the existing guidelines for the physical activity in the UK. Certainly awareness and knowledge about the benefits of physical are arguably not enough to influence changes in physical activity behaviour. An example being, an evaluation of the gov ernments Change for life campaign suggests an increased awareness, but little change in attitude and behaviour (Croker, et al 2012). Wide arrays of cognitive and psychological variables have been examined as potential links of physical activity adherence (Trost et al, 2002). Between these variables, previous studies have shown that the following are most consistently associated with greater physical activity levels such as fewer perceived barriers, greater enjoyment of physical activity, greater expected benefits, better psychological health, and greater self-efficacy for physical activity, greater self-motivation for physical activity, greater readiness to change and better perceived health for fitness (Sallis Owen 1999) Self-efficacy for physical activity, is described as an individuals confidence in their ability to be physically active on a regular basis, has been one of the strongest and most consistent cognitive correlates of activity level (Rhodes et al, 1999). Both adoption and maintenance is related to self-efficacy in physical activity(Sallis et al, 2007). It has been correlated with physical activity in a variety of settings, which includeslarge population based community samples, exercise groups healthy individuals, and solid exercise programs (Trost et al, 2002). Previous longitudinal studies on Self-efficacy have been shown to predict future physical activity levels (Sallis Owen 1999).In addition, self-efficacy may be improved through training and Morey feedback and therefore could be particularly a vital target for interventions. Perceived barriers also have relate strongly within physical activity. Lack of time is the most common reported barrier within psychical activity among UK sam ples (Dishman, 1994). Other common barriers include lack of facilities, bad weather, safety, lack of exercise partner fatigue or lack of energy, poor health, and being self-conscious about appearance (Trost et al, 2002).Perceived barriers may include subjective and objective components. Objective barriers such lack of exercise facilities may be modified by policy interventions and subjective barriers may be altered through cognitive interventions that disprove beliefs that hamper activity. Therefore the aim of this study is to encourage behaviour change and to increase participation in exercise in client retention. This will be achieved using the trans-theoretical model and to propose strategies to increase long-term client retention and reduce turnover in a personal training. THE TRANS-THEORETICAL MODEL The Trans-theoretical model has been defined as an integrative and comprehensive model of behaviour change that has drawn from all the important theories of psychotherapy (Prochaska Norcass, 1999).The TTM is made up of five stagesprecontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action and maintenance. This Figure shows each stage of the changes of stage Model (Prochaska, 1992) STAGES OF CHANGE   Ã‚   Stage 1: Precontemplation stage Precontemplation is the stage in which an individual has no intention of adopting a physical activity program. Majority of the Bedford who are sedentary may not understand the value of introducing physical activity into their daily routine. When working with them at this stage, encourage them to consider thinking about change and the several benefits. This is a time to educate the individual about the health risks of inactivity and the value of being physically active. With a fitness professional, it is important for them to validate that fact that the Bedford citizens are not ready to make a change; however they should offer encouragement and information about the benefits of making positive changes to their lifestyle. Stage 2: Contemplation stage Contemplation is the stage where the individual who is currently not active but who have the intention of adopting a physical activity program. An individual in this stage is still sedentary, but has started to think about how a sedentary lifestyle is negatively affecting their health. This individual is not ready to make a change, but is starting to think about physical activity as an option. It is important f as the fitness professional to encourage the client to weigh the pros and cons of a healthy behavioural change, so they can start to understand the benefits and participate in physical activity and make other positive lifestyle modifications. Stage 3: Preparation stage The preparation stage is the stage where the clients are both mentally and physically preparing to adopt a physical activity program (Marcus Owen 1992). The individual is no longer sedentary. They now have begun to partake in some from physical activity (e.g. walking, going to the gym, however, there is no consistency or commitment in this stage (Prochaska et al, 1994). Its important for the fitness professionals to work with the client to create a plan for adopting healthy lifestyle changes and overcoming challenges. This plan may include how to fit physical activity into a busywork schedule, also making healthy food choices when eating out and identifying and creating a social support system. This stage is about creating plans adopt healthy behaviour changes that specific to the client. Stage 4: Action stage The action stage is where an individual has been engaging in regular activity for less than six months. This individual begins to carry out the plan created during the preparation stage. It is important for the fitness professional to offer continuous support and encouragement while helping the individual focus on the long-term advantages if making positive behaviour changes. This is stage goal setting particularly useful. It is also important to teach the client how to anticipate and overcome obstacles that could deter their motivation adherence. Stage 5: Maintenance stage The maintenance stage is where the citizens have been engaged in regular physical-activity program for over six months (Prochaska et al (1992).This client has progressed from the action stage into the maintenance stage, where they maintaining new healthy behaviour changes. It is important for the fitness professional to offer continued inspiration to the citizens so they can maintain the changed behaviour, and to identify those things that might cause a setback. The fitness professionals should take time to work with individual to identify things that could tempt or undermine the positive changes the individual decided on. Furthermore, helping the client to strategize how to prevent these recently identified causes for a setback. The goal of the fitness professional is to provide the citizens with the tools necessary for maintaining positive behaviour changes. Therefore, keeping in mind that citizens may hesitate back and forth between stages Prochaska et al (1992).The shift back and forth may be caused by internal such as changes in self-efficacy and external such as commitment to family, work factors. APPLYING THE SELF-EFFICACY THEORY TO INCREASE LONG TERM RETENTION Self-efficacy is defined as the strength of a persons conviction that they successfully execute those courses of behaviours necessary to bring about specific outcome (Bandura, 1979). According to(Bandura, 1989) self-efficacy affects thoughts patterns that can aid or hinder the individual. An individual with high-self efficacy within physical activity will feel better that they have the ability to be successful in exercise related activates. For example, Fitness professionals will help their clients be more successful if they can guide clients to higher levels of self-efficacy. Essentially, this theory is specific to individual tasks and situations, rather than general situations (Rhodes et al, 1999).The transferability of self-efficacy from one area to another depending comparable two domains is. (Maddux, 1995). For example, if a client has high self-efficacy in the area of sport, it is likely that they will high-efficacy within a similar domain, such as exercise, However, there clearly be less transfer of efficacy to domain that is less similar , such speaking to large group of people. The issue of the transferability is one that fitness professionals should consider when aiming to improve a clients sell-efficacy. Referring back to (Bandura, 2000),self-efficacy influences activity choices, effort of intensity  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚   at a task, and persistence when facing obstacles. For example, is the client has low self-efficacy within exercise, they are more likely to avoid exercise. If they do exercise, they be more likely to pic forms of exercise that do not seem challenging, also when obstacles do occur, the client will lower self-efficacy will give up before the client with higher self-efficacy, moreover a client with high efficacy will put more effort into an exercise and be more determined when obstacles occur Bandura, 1990).This difference between clients who have low self-efficacy within exercise and high self-efficacy within exercise is an important distinction personal trainers should contemplate constructing exercise programs and coaching clients. HOW SELF-EFFICACY IMPACTS EXERCISE BEHAVIOR Self-efficacy has been established to have a strong correlation with intense [physical activity. In a survey of 2,053 randomly tested Adults, self-efficacy was found to be the strongest relation to vigorous exercise  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚   (Sallis et al, 1989).Poag McAuley, (1992)found that at any exercise intensity, individuals with higher self-efficacy had a lower perceived exertion during exercise in their study that included 67 adult women, exercise efficacy accounted for 11.1% of variance in womens perceived exertion.   This research has direct consequences for health and fitness professionals trying to promote physical fitness and exercise adherence because effort and persistence are two relevant factors in devising a successful exercise program. HOW EXERCISE IMPACTS SELF-EFFICACY Remarkably, self-efficacy and exercise have a mutual relationship. Even though self-efficacy is a determinant of exercise behaviour, exercise is also a source of self-efficacy (McAuley, 1991). This creates situations because people who need the most encouragement to exercise work out the least, due to low efficacy. However, one of the best ways to increase self-efficacy is through exercise, this will also allow clients to maintain long-term exercise program. For example, in a study conducted by (Mihalko McAuley, 1996)94 middle aged participants who previously did not exercise completed a 20-week aerobic exercise program.   Feelings of self-efficacy during a graded exercise test significantly increased pre-program and post program. Self-efficacy and also be improved during the exercise session.   Moderate exercise can increase self-efficacy in clients when evaluated after a gym session (Treasure Newbery, 1998). A study conducted by (Rudolph and Butki, 1998) found that as little as 10 minutes of aerobic exercise could increase moods of self-efficacy. This has implications for fitness professionals who may deal with a hesitant new client during their first apportionment. If the fitness professional can a get a client to begin exercises that they are comfortable with, this will lead to increases self-efficacy and more willingness to try more challenging exercises later in that session or future sessions. RECOMMENDED STRATEGIES TO INCREASE SELF-EFFICACY WITHIN EXPRESS Fitness professionals and fitness clubs can use several psychological techniques to aid in the development of high self-efficacy with their clients. Because self-efficacy is impacted by mastery experience, vicarious experience, social persuasion, and physiological state, it is logical to develop individual and group strategies aimed at increasing self-efficacy through each of these factors. INCREASING SELF-EFFICACY THROUGH SELF PERSUASION Verbal and social persuasion from respected individuals or from positive self-talk is the third source of self-efficacy (McAuley et al, 1994). As proven through in the studies of Weinberg et al, (1994).Verbal persuasioncan is a powerful way to influence self-efficacy. Exercise professionals should actively look for health promoting behaviours that beginners in exercise are performing and then verbally recognise that behaviour. Personal trainers can also provide behavioural contract that exercise can sign. For example, an individual may sign a contract that they will exercise for at least 30 minutes 3 times per week. Finally, self-talk has recently been shown to increase self-efficacy, decrease anxiety, and increase performance during completion of an athletic skill (Mcauley et al, 1994). Personal trainers can educate their clients on positive self-talk routines to help improve exercise performance. Teaching clients use of affirmation statements such as I can do this and Ive done this before and I can do it again can help the client stay focused on a positive result of their routine. INCREASING SELF-EFFICACY THROUGH VICARIOUS EXPERIENCE Vicarious experience is the second source of self-efficacy, can be targeted through important strategies such ad modelling and imagery (McAuley, et al 1991).Using the idea of modelling, a person trainer could share success stories of people similar to their clients have successfully adopted an active lifestyle.   This would help encourage my clients to implant the idea of I can do it too their minds.   Beginning exercises can analyse the habits of successful exercisers to understand how they reach that level.   Personal trainers, whether recognising it or not, regularly use modelling to increase efficacy within clients. For example, a trainer may use a number of modelling techniques to teach an exercise.   When, discussing an exercise, a trainer may point out another exerciser that is performing the exercise properly, then, the personal trainer demonstrates the exercise (vicarious experience) , finally, the trainer may have the client perform the exerciseà ƒâ€šÃ‚  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚   properly in front of a mirror (mastery experience. If the fitness professional finds that the client has family members or a friend who have adopted exercise into the daily routine, this may good model to use to access vicarious experience. It should be noted that the more similar the client is to model, the greater impact that this model should have on the clients Fitzsimmons et al, (1991). INCREASING SELF-EFFICACY THROUGH MASTERY EXPERIENCE The mastery experience stage is the most powerful source of self-efficacy, it is very important to focus on developing the mastery experiences within a clients exercise program. Using past personal successes, goal setting, appropriate exercise program design, and exercise logs are sources of mastery experiences that can increase self-efficacy. Past mastery experiences within domains should be emphasized when increasing a clients self-efficacy for exercise.  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚   Having the mentally of Ive done it once, I can do it again is powerful thought process that should be used. If the person has not experienced many mastery experiences in an exercise-related environment, it is essential use to effective goal setting during the beginning of their exercise program to create mastery experiences. Proper goal setting is widely recognised as a powerful source of improved task, which is critical the first phase of an exercise program (Gould, 2001).Developing realistic short-term goals lea d to early exercise success can have effect on increase exercise efficacy throughout the mastery experience stage Fitzsimmons et al, (1991) INCREASING SELF-EFFICACY THROUGH PHYSIOLOGICAL STATE Educating clients about what is going on inside their bodies and the physical sensations to expect during exercise can help them decrease anxiety that they may be feeling about the gym session. Once the clients understand that the feelings as muscular fatigue, as well as reaching and maintaining a high heart rate, are involved in exercise, they more likely to cope with physiological states more effectively.   If a client doesnt point out that they are highly anxious while thinking of exercise, a personal trainer can teach them to use relaxation methods such as deep breathing and positive self-talk to ease anxiety (Gould Udry 1994). CONCLUSION Self-efficacy is an important factor within exercise behaviour for gym members. It can help beginners keep going in the face adversity. Furthermore, it can help the middle aged push to another level of fitness. Also help advanced gym members overcome dramatic relapses such as injuries. Due to the fact self-efficacy are both a predictor and an outcome of exercise, personal trainers and strength and conditioning coaches should understand the role that self-efficacy plays in behaviour and decision making. In addition, they should implement several research based strategies as discussed in this study. Finally, in effort to get the most effect from way to increase self-efficacy in gym clients, fitness professionals main focus in this regards should be creating mastery experiences that will create the foundation for positive exercise behaviour with their clients which also increase long-term client retention and reduce turnover. REFERENCES Bandura A. Human agency in social cognitive theory. Am Psychol 44: 1175-1184, 1989 Cadilhac, D.A., Cumming, T.B., Sheppard, L., Pearce, D.C., Carter, R. Magnus, A. (2011). The economic benefits of reducing physical inactivity: an Australian example. International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, 8, 99. doi:10.1186/1479-5868-8-99 Caspersen, C.J., Powell, K.E. Christenson, G.M. (1985). Physical activity, exercise and physical fitness: Definitions and distinctions for health-related research. Public Health Reports, 100, 126-31. Craig, R., Mindell, J. Hirani, V. (2009). Health survey for England 2008: Physical activity and fitness. London: The Information Centre. Croker, H., Lucas, R., Wardle, J. (2012). Cluster-randomised trial to evaluate the Change for Life mass media/social marketing campaign in the UK. BMC Public Health, 12, 404. http://www.biomedcentral.com/1471-2458/12/404 Dishman, Rod K. Advances in exercise adherence. Human Kinetics Publishers, 1994. Fitzsimmons PA, Landers DM, Thomas JR, and Van der Mars H. Does self-efficacy predict performance in experienced weightlifters. Res Q Sport Exerc 62: 424-431, 1991. Gould D and Udry E. Pyschological skills for enhancing performance: Arousal regulation strategies. Med Sci Sports Exerc 26: 478-485, 1994. Gould DG. Goal setting for peak performance. In: Applied Sport Psychology. William JM, ed. Mountain View, CA: Mayfield, 2001. pp. 190-205. Maddux JE. Self-efficacy theory: An introduction. In: Self- Efficacy, Adaptation, and adjustment: Theory, research, and application. Maddux, JE, ed. New York, NY: Plenum Press, 1995. pp. 3-33. Marcus, B.H. and Owen, N., 1992. Motivational Readiness, Selfà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ Efficacy and Decisionà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ Making for Exercise1. Journal of applied social psychology, 22(1), pp.3-16. McAuley E, Courneya K, and Lettunich J. Effects of acute and long-term exercise on self-efficacy responses in sedentary, middle-aged males and females. Gerontologist 31: 534-542, 1991 McAuley E, Courneya KS, Rudolph DL, and Lox CL. Enhancing exercise adherence in middle-aged males and females. Prev Med 23: 498-506, 1994. Mihalko SL and McAuley E. Self-efficacy and affective responses to acute exercise in middle-aged adults. J Soc Behav Pers 11: 216-223, 1996. Poag KG and McAuley E. Goal setting, self-efficacy, and exercise behavior. J Sport Exerc Psychol 14: 352-360, 1992. Prochaska, J.O. and Norcross, J.C., 1999. Comparative conclusions: toward a transtheoretical therapy. Systems of psychotherapy: A transtheoretical analysis, pp.487-528. Prochaska, J.O., DiClemente, C.C. and Norcross, J.C., 1992. In search of how people change: applications to addictive behaviors. American psychologist, 47(9), p.1102. Prochaska, J.O., Velicer, W.F., Rossi, J.S., Goldstein, M.G., Marcus, B.H., Rakowski, W., Fiore, C., Harlow, L.L., Redding, C.A., Rosenbloom, D. and Rossi, S.R., 1994. Stages of change and decisional balance for 12 problem behaviors. Health psychology, 13(1), p.39. Rhodes RE, Martin AD, Taunton JE, Rhodes EC, Donnelly M, and Elliot J. Factors associated with exercise adherence among older adults: An individual perspective. Sports Med 28: 397-411, 1999. Rhodes RE, Martin AD, Taunton JE, Rhodes EC, Donnelly M, and Elliot J. Factors associated with exercise adherence among older adults: An individual perspective. Sports Med 28: 397-411, 1999. Rolland, Y., Abellan van Kan, G. Vellas, B. (2008). Physical activity and Alzheimers disease: From prevention to therapeutic perspectives. Journal of the American Medical Directors Association, 9, 390-405. Rudolph D and Butki B. Self-efficacy and affective responses to short bouts of exercise. J Appl Sport Psychol 10: 268-280, 1998 Sallis JF, Hovell MF, Hofstetter CR, Faucher P, Elder JP, Blanchard J, Casperen CJ, Powell KE, and Christenson GM. A multivariate study of determinants of vigorous exercise in a community sample. Prev Med 18: 20-34, 1989. Sallis JF, Kerr J. Built Environment and Physical Activity. PCPFS (Presidents Council on Physical Fitness and Sports) Research Digest. 2006;7(4):1-8. Treasure D and Newbery DM. Relationship between self-efficacy, exercise intensity, and feeling stages in a sedentary population during and following an acute bout of exercise. J Sport Exerc Psychol 20: 1-11, 1998. Trost, Stewart G., Russell R. Pate, James F. Sallis, Patty S. Freedson, Wendell C. Taylor, Marsha Dowda, and John Sirard. Age and gender differences in objectively measured physical activity in youth. Medicine and science in sports and exercise 34, no. 2 (2002): 350-355. Weinberg RS, Hughes HH, Critelli JW, England R, and Jackson A. Effects of preexisting and manipulated self-efficacy on weight loss in a self-control group. J Res Pers 18: 352-358, 1994. World Health Organization. Global recommendations on physical activity for health. Geneva, Switzerland: WHO Press; 2010.

Booker T. Washington :: essays research papers

Booker T. Washington was a great influence for the black community. The efforts this man put to become such a wonderful leader were incredible. Booker T. Washington was a man that started up from scratch. He grew up as a Black slave, who did not have much choices in life. He was born in Virginia in 1856, and he had a white father and a black mother. After the Emancipation Proclamation he went to work in a coal mine, while still a child. When Booker was seventeen he went of to Hampton Institute, he worked there as a janitor. He then became a student there. Following all the hard work Booker T. Washington has put in his life he became a very famous speaker on educational subjects. Booker T. Washington became a very famous speaker he had been invited to eat dinner in the White House with President Theodore Roosevelt. Slowly Booker began to get the respect he deserved. Booker preached that Blacks should accept that they were inferior to whites, he told them that we have to prove to them that we are socially capable of taking care of ourselves. He said the way we do this is make successful businesses we get educated and get into politics. For these beliefs that Booker believed in is why he was called "The Great Compromiser." Many white ex-slave owners began to respect Bookers notions. Not only was he becoming acknowledged by the Blacks but now also by the whites. Booker T. Washington was being secretly funded by great industrialists like Andrew Carnegie and John D. Rockefeller. The love approached racism in a nonthreatening way. The only thing that was a problem to him is not all people liked his belief. Booker T. Washington :: essays research papers Booker T. Washington was a great influence for the black community. The efforts this man put to become such a wonderful leader were incredible. Booker T. Washington was a man that started up from scratch. He grew up as a Black slave, who did not have much choices in life. He was born in Virginia in 1856, and he had a white father and a black mother. After the Emancipation Proclamation he went to work in a coal mine, while still a child. When Booker was seventeen he went of to Hampton Institute, he worked there as a janitor. He then became a student there. Following all the hard work Booker T. Washington has put in his life he became a very famous speaker on educational subjects. Booker T. Washington became a very famous speaker he had been invited to eat dinner in the White House with President Theodore Roosevelt. Slowly Booker began to get the respect he deserved. Booker preached that Blacks should accept that they were inferior to whites, he told them that we have to prove to them that we are socially capable of taking care of ourselves. He said the way we do this is make successful businesses we get educated and get into politics. For these beliefs that Booker believed in is why he was called "The Great Compromiser." Many white ex-slave owners began to respect Bookers notions. Not only was he becoming acknowledged by the Blacks but now also by the whites. Booker T. Washington was being secretly funded by great industrialists like Andrew Carnegie and John D. Rockefeller. The love approached racism in a nonthreatening way. The only thing that was a problem to him is not all people liked his belief.

Child Care and Observation Essay -- Child Psychology Essay

Observation is very important in young children because that is how you get to know a child better. While observing how a child interacts with their peers, adults, and how they behave in different settings, you are getting to know the child without speaking to them. It may be important to observe a child but at the same time it may mislead you into being judgmental, too soon. For instance, if you observe a child misbehaving, not getting along with the other children or talking back to the teacher, you might get the impression that he/she is a 'bad' child and you might treat and act differently with that particular child. From my personal experiences, I have to come to the conclusion that it doesn't always work the way I believe when observing a child. I strongly feel that in order to get to know a child you should not spend most of your time observing him/her. Interacting with the child gives off better results. Not once or twice, this should be a consistent thing. For example, in room seven we have a child by the name of Thomas which most of us have heard about him. He appears to be very aggressive and angry from what we have observed. Even though the child may be difficult at times, I cannot turn my back on him and give up because of this. We can only observe what lies in front of us. No one really knows what goes on when the child is home with his parents. He might be going through some really hard times with his family and this is how he is coping with it but, ...

Indian Film Industry Bollywood Essay

The entertainment industry in India has outperformed the economy and is one of the fastest growing sectors in India. However, it registered a moderate growth of over 6 per cent in 200.The industry is expected to grow from Rs. 166 billion (U.S. $ 3.45 billion) to Rs. 419 billion(U.S. $ 8.72 billion) by the year 2007. Film entertainment is the most popular form of entertainment and it is this undiminished passion through the decades that has driven India to become the largest producer of films in the world. Since 1931, when talkies were introduced in the country, the film industry has produced more than 67,000 films in more than 30 different languages and dialects. The film industry recorded a loss of Rs. 3 billion (U.S. $ 62.5 million) in gross revenues of Rs 39 billion (U.S. $ 812.5 million) in 2002. But, it is expected to grow annually by 19 per cent to reach Rs. 93 billion (U.S. $ 1.93 billion) by 2007. The industry produced 1200 films in 2002, and 1,013 films in 2001, up from 855 films in 2000. While Hindi films continued to be the largest segment in 2001 (23 per cent share), south Indian language films (Telegu, Tamil and Malyalam) have seen growth in their shares. India’s movie industry is a great sector for foreign investment by corporatized entertainment companies. Though risks are high on a per-movie basis, the risk spreads out across a number of films. However, the domestic filmmaking industry, despite its profligacy, is yet to acquire the character of professionalism on a large scale. BRIEF HISTORY OF INDIAN MOVIE INDUSTRY When the Lumiere Brothers’ first films were shown at Bombay’s Watson’s Hotel in 1895 or when Dadasaheb Phalke released his epochal feature film Raja Harischandra in 1913, it is unlikely that either the exhibitors or the pioneer film maker realised they were unleashing a mass entertainment medium that would hold millions in sway for the next hundred years; that they were spawning an industry that in years to come would overtake the rest of the  world in film production! For most Indians, cinema is integral to their lives; it is not a distant, two to three hour distraction, but a vicarious lifestyle for them. The large screen provides an alternative, an escape from the realities of day-to-day life. The protagonists are totally identified with, the hero is applauded, the virtuous is worshipped and the villain is condemned. The actors and actresses are household names; there is no escaping their omnipresence, from the Paanwala (betel vendor) to the most revered Indian painter – they are all caught up with the magnetism of screen personalities. A study of the vicissitudes of Indian cinema would throw light on the progress of technology, especially cinematography, and the changing political scene and social mores and attitudes. The silent films launched by Phalke, which had titles in English, Gujarati, Hindi and Urdu, by and large related to myths and legends. The stories were familiar to the audience and required minimum commentary. Historicals also proved very popular; Harsh, Chandragupta, Ashoka and the Mughal and Maratha kings strode the silver screen amidst cardboard pillars and in tinsel costumes. Strangely enough, while in the nineties we are still arguing over whether or not ‘kissing’ should be shown on screen, in the first decade of Indian cinema, with the British paying scant attention to censorship except when the Establishment was attacked in any way; leading heroines of the day kissed their leading men without inhibitions, like Lalita Pawar in Pati Bhakti (1922)! With the advent of Gandhiji came the plea for according a better status to women, the removal of untouchability and a cry for religious harmony. The silent era of Hiralal Sen, Baburao Painter and R. Nataraja Mudaliar came to an end when Adershir M. Irani produced his first talkie, Alam Ara in 1931. If Phalke was the father of Indian cinema, Irani was the father of the talkie. The classic Hollywood musical Singing in the Rain exemplifies the cynicism with which people first regarded the talking movie and this holds good for India too. There were too many gargantuan problems to be tackled; there were no dialogue writers, no lyricists; songs had to be sung during the filming as prerecording facilities were yet unknown. Minimum instruments  were used as the instrumentalists had to be camouflaged behind the singer. A quaint story goes that during the filming of a song the actress was getting agitated as the tabla beat was too fast. Finally the shooting had to be stopped and a hapless tabla player was pulled out of the pool where he had been hidden. â€Å"What can I do,† he cried, â€Å"a fish got into my dhoti (loin cloth)†. But the talking film had come to stay. Considering that even the silent film had a preponderance of songs, the talkie came to be more of a single; the heroes and heroines sang their way through the three-four hour movie. Histrionics and appearances counted less; a singing talent was all that mattered. To this day the Indian film song has a unique thrall. The music director, the song writer and the playback singers have an unparalleled status in India’s cinema. If Bombay was the hub of early cinema the other centres were not far behind; Calcutta and Madras with their own patriarchs were also making path-breaking films. Chandidas a film glorifying the Bhakti movement and castigating casteism, directed by Debaki Bose in 1932 for New Theatres, was lauded for its use of background music and dramatic narrative. K. Subrahmanyam’s Thyaga Bhoomi (1939) and Seva Sadan both advocated women’s rights and self-dependence. Seva Sadan also introduced to the world through the silver screen, the great singer M.S. Subbalakshmi, who came to be immortalised for her role in and as the poet-saint Meera both in Hindi and Tamil. While it is almost impossible to even list all the luminaries of Indian cinema over ten decades, the Wadia Brothers deserve special mention, before going into the different genres. JBH and Homi Wadia were the forerunners of the stunt film – the thirties was a period in Indian cinema when ‘Wadia’ and ‘Nadia’ were synonymous. Australian by birth, Mary Evans came to India with a dance troupe. She was asked to do a number for JBH’s Noor-e-Yman; she changed her name to Nadia. â€Å"Besides being a lucky name, it rhymes with Wadia†, she is reported to have said, and through various circumstances she became stunt actress for the Wadias, earning the sobriquet â€Å"Fearless Nadia†. The Wadias had a fixation for trains and made a number of films titled,  Toofan Mail, Flying Ranee, Punjab Mail and so on. Nadia got so used to sitting on roof top of trains for her stunts that she became reluctant to step off and even demanded her lunch be sent up! The true stunt woman, she grappled with a lion, did the trapeze, carried a calf and a man over running trains – it is unlikely there could ever be another actress like Nadia. She married Homi in 1960, and breathed her last recently. The forties was a tumultuous decade; the first half was ravaged by war and the second saw drastic political changes all over the world. Film-makers delved into contemporary themes. V. Shantaram, the doyen of lyrical films, made Dr. Kotnis Ki Amar Kahani – a tribute to Dr. Dwaraknath Kotnis who went out with a medical team to China and died there. Shantaram’s other films were reformist but visually appealing, like, Do Aankhen Barah Haath, Pinjra, Chaani. But there were films where pure artistic merit supersedes social message as in Jhanak Jhanak Payal Baaje and Geet Gaya Pattharon Ne. South Indian films also gained great footing. AVM and Gemini were two of the most prolific producers turning out social drama in the South Indian languages as well as in Hindi. While the thespian actor Shivaji Ganesan delivered mind boggling soliloquies on screen, many of the politically inclined writers and actors of the south Indian screen began to use the medium for reaching out to people. The DMK stalwarts, Annadurai, Karunanidhi and MG Ramachandran did not even resort to subtlety. â€Å"Naan anaittal adu nadandu vital†¦Ã¢â‚¬  sang MGR, (if I could be the decision maker, the poor of this world will not suffer†¦.†). The very titles of the films were chosen with care; Rickshakaran (Rickshaw Driver), Muttukara Velan (cowherd Velan) and En Kadamai (my duty) to convey his identification with the masses. No wonder he was hailed Makkal Thilagam (gem amongst people). Just how effective was the use of the medium was amply proved with the party coming to power and MGR getting voted Chief Minister of the state. The other star who used the screen image to great advantage was N.T. Rama Rao of Andhra Pradesh. The veritable screen god, NTR played the role so often that he began believing in his divinity. Apparently so did a lot of other people in Andhra, which is why we had a second screen hero from south as Chief Minister. While the south was busy wooing the public for votes, Bombay was either turning out escapist fare, light, happy, musical films with Dilip Kumar, Raj Kapoor, Dev Anand, Shammi Kapoor, Kishore Kumar, Nargis, Madhubala, Nutan, Geeta Bali, Mala Sinha and others or gave the audience absolute tear jerkers with social melodrama. This was the golden era of music. Shankar- Jaikishan, O.P. Nayyar, Madan Mohan, C. Ramchandra, Salil Chaudhury, Naushad, S.D. Burman – all had their distinctive sway. Each vied with the other to produce some of the most unforgettable melodies India has ever known. This was also the age of innocence; the screen was black and white, the vamp and the heroine did not merge, they had their domains, there were no shades to the hero, a man was all good or rotten to the core. No double entendres were woven into the songs and even the vamp was decently attired on the screen. This was the era of Raj Kapoor, of Shree 420, Awara, Boot Polish, Jagte Raho, Chori Chori and of course his magnum opus Mera Naam Joker – he was still making and acting in enduring films, the tramp who is not able to cope with the pace of the world. He caught up with times and his films changed with Sangam, Jis Desh Mein Ganga Behti Hai, Satyam Shivam Sundaram and Ram Teri Ganga Maili. Dilip Kumar and Guru Dutt were excellent foils to the chocolate-faced heroes as tragedy kings. So were Meena Kumari and Bina Rai amongst the heroines. But such was their versatility that they could also carry off comedy effectively. Two outstanding Hindi films of the fifties that deserve mention are K. Asif’s Mughal-e-Azam (took 14 years to make and is one of the most lavishly produced historical of Indian cinema) and Mehboob Khan’s Mother India, which is said to have gained the status of Gone With the Wind. In the meantime in Bengal, the man who was to take Indian cinema to the international arena and win accolades from the greatest film- makers, Satyajit Ray, released his first film, Pather Panchali (1955). After his trilogy there was no looking back for him or for cinema from Bengal. Mrinal Sen conveyed his quiet commitment to socialism through films like Calcutta, Oka Orie Katha (Telugu) and Bhuvan Shome. Director Ritwik Ghatak gave us memorable films Meghe Dhaka Tara and Subarnarekha. Although Bengal also came up with films that asked for a willing suspension of disbelief, these were  exceptions rather than the rule as in Bombay films, where the Mukherjis, Sippys, Chopras, Chakraborty and Manmohan Desai produced one bonanza after another for the masses and laughed all the way to their banks. There was no market for serious films, it was felt, and the classics that failed to break even like Guru Dutt’s Kagaz ke Phool and Raj Kapoor’s Mera Naam Joker, only strengthened the conviction. The former committed suicide and the latter resorted to the populist fare with Bobby. It was only after the government set up the Film Finance Corporation (FFC, which in 1980 came to be known as NFDC i.e. National Film Development Corporation) that several small but serious film makers got the wherewithal to make films, notable among them being Mani Kaul, Kumar Shahani and GV Iyer (with his maiden venture in Sanskrit, Adi Sankaracharya). The Corporation also partnered the making of Attenborough’s Gandhi and financed Satyajit Ray’s Ghare Baire which was to be one of the last films of the master. Like cinema in Bengal, Malayalam cinema too was meaningful but it took a longer time to get noticed. In fact it was Ramu Kariat’s melodious tragedy Chemmeen winning the President’s gold medal in 1965 that drew attention to Malayalam cinema. Adoor Gopalakrishnan (Swayamvaram) and others all gained similar recognition in the years to come. With actor Prem Nazir doing stellar roles in a record breaking 600 films, Malayalam films have come to be characterised by simple narration of powerful stories, authentic locales and low cost production. The Karanth (BV) – Karnad (Girish) combine have produced two milestone Kannada films Vamsa Vriksha and Samskara, both essentially iconoclast in treatment. Though much talked about, the critique of caste brahmins, the theme of both films was later seen to be rather extreme. In this context it is worthwhile to mention two films made in Tamil on the same subject. Vedam Pudithu directed by P. Bharatiraja and Ore Oru Gramathile by K. Jyothi Pandyan. Both carried strong indictments against caste hierarchy and the common man’s struggle to overcome it, but retained a balance – rather unusual for Tamil films. With government funds available for making films, the seventies saw an unhealthy divide between the existing commercial or mainstream cinema and the new parallel cinema or art films. The former was condemned unequivocally by the critics but continued to fill the coffers while the latter got rave reviews, bewildered the masses and created deep dents in government resources. Fortunately this situation did not last long, for soon there came a crop of film makers who realised that meaningful films need not necessarily incur heavy losses. Shyam Benegal, (Ankur, Nishant, Manthan) proved that there was an audience for films without frills but with a strong story and interesting narration. Govind Nihalani, Jabbar Patel, Mahesh Bhatt, K. Balachander, Bharati Raja, Adoor Gopalakrishnan, all fell into this category. Around this time, the singular phenomenon, the angry young man with his dark looks, smouldering eyes and mesmerising voice, Amitabh Bachchan, began to stride the scene like a colossus. He introduced to cinema for the first time as a cult, the negative or the anti-hero. Special screen plays were written for this hero seeking vengeance and taking on single-handed an unsympathetic establishment and inadequate legal system. The eighties saw the advent of women film makers, Vijaya Mehta (Rao Sabeb), Aparna Sen (36, Chowringhee Lane, Paroma), Sai Paranjpye (Chashme Baddoor, Katha, Sparsh), Kalpana Lajmi (Ek Pal and, later the much acclaimed Rudali), Prema Karanth (Phaniamma) and Meera Nair (Salaam Bombay). The most commendable thing about these directors is their individuality. Their films have strong content and are told with passion, (only Sai has tackled light hearted subjects). In the nineties, Indian cinema faces tough competition from television; the cable network gives viewers any number of channels and though the most popular channels continue to be the film-based ones, the cinema halls have taken a beating. Nevertheless, films like Aditya Chopra’s maiden effort, Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge and Suraj Barjatya’s Hum Aapke Hain Kaun have broken all records, because they recall the innocence of the fifties, a novelty in this age of sex and violence. This gives hope. Cinema in India can never cease, it has gone too deep into our psyche. It may undergo several reverses in fortune. With other mediums opening up, there will be a smaller market for films. Living as we are in a global village today, we are becoming a more discerning audience. No longer are we going to lap up every mediocre fare dished out by the moghuls of cinema; only the best will survive. And this is just as well.