Sports Memorabilia a True Hobby Essay Example For Students

Sports Memorabilia a True Hobby Essay As he stepped up to the plate, he dug his right back foot into the dirt getting a firm stance. Little did he know that the ball given to the umpire before the game which cost just nine dollars and now coming at him was going to be worth a little over 2.7 million dollars in seconds. Mark McGwire is truly a reason why a person can make money, gain notoriety and have fun while collecting memorabilia. Making money through regular jobs is one thing, making money by collecting sports memorabilia is entirely another. If one wants to make money collecting sports memorabilia, one has to be patient because collecting memorabilia is not a get-rich-quick scheme. Two main reasons why the value of sports memorabilia increases are the passage of time and the achievements of the athletes. One way to get these items before they increase in value is to attend free autograph signing sessions. Another way for one to make money is to write to an athlete and get something signed for free, then turn around and sell it. One example of this is Vince DeAngello who started this process when only a kid and now owns a very successful sports memorabilia shop. I have personally received memorabilia through letters to athletes; I have seen their value rise, then I have sold them to a sports memorabilia shop for a profit. One of the easiest ways to make money by collecting memorabilia is to follow rookies and get as much signed by them as you can. This is very convenient because rookies do not usually charge for their signatures. Also, as a first year player, rookies are more eager to sign autographs so they can make a favorable first impression. Not only can one make money by collecting sports memorabilia but one can also be seen as a hero in the eyes of the public. By collecting memorabilia, one can gain public recognition also. For example, the person who bought Mark McGwires seventieth homerun ball for $2.7 million certainly gained public recognition. Anyone who donates a piece of his or her collection of memorabilia to a sports hall of fame such as the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York, will receive a great deal of public acclaim. Such recognition was given to the Rotary club who last year donated George Bretts pine tar bat to the Rockhurst Spectacular. The retired Royals reliever Jeff Montgomery is also known as a great benefactor to many charitable organizations. Con sidered a hero to many young children, Cal Ripken Jr. is known for his willingness to sign as many autographs as are requested both before and after games. Some people gain public notoriety by having memorabilia within their homes or business. I have gained a personal reputation for the amount of memorabilia I have in my house. Former baseball star Danny Jackson, owner of the Incredibowl draws people to his business not only to bowl, but also to gaze at his vast collection of sports memorabilia. With all of this money and fame, we often forget how fun, collecting memorabilia can be. The fun of collecting sports memorabilia can take many ways, shapes and forms. It is fun to meet star athletes and get autographs to add to your collection. One can also enjoy trading and collecting with people of similar interests. Not only does this fun come by trading, but also by watching your investment rise. My friend Brad Long was fortunate enough six years ago to invest $500 in a signed Mark McGw ire jersey, which now is worth several thousands. I have also been privileged to watch my Joe Montana football go up in value. Sports memorabilia has brought many great hours of pleasure to my life, and others. I have had fun decorating rooms of my house with sports history. My neighbor and friend Jamie Quirk has also inspired me by showing me his rooms of fun with endless memorabilia. .u29e52355370c4a8dc0d3b74ece4b0157 , .u29e52355370c4a8dc0d3b74ece4b0157 .postImageUrl , .u29e52355370c4a8dc0d3b74ece4b0157 .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u29e52355370c4a8dc0d3b74ece4b0157 , .u29e52355370c4a8dc0d3b74ece4b0157:hover , .u29e52355370c4a8dc0d3b74ece4b0157:visited , .u29e52355370c4a8dc0d3b74ece4b0157:active { border:0!important; } .u29e52355370c4a8dc0d3b74ece4b0157 .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u29e52355370c4a8dc0d3b74ece4b0157 { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .u29e52355370c4a8dc0d3b74ece4b0157:active , .u29e52355370c4a8dc0d3b74ece4b0157:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .u29e52355370c4a8dc0d3b74ece4b0157 .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .u29e52355370c4a8dc0d3b74ece4b0157 .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u29e52355370c4a8dc0d3b74ece4b0157 .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u29e52355370c4a8dc0d3b74ece4b0157 .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u29e52355370c4a8dc0d3b74ece4b0157:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .u29e52355370c4a8dc0d3b74ece4b0157 .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .u29e52355370c4a8dc0d3b74ece4b0157 .u29e52355370c4a8dc0d3b74ece4b0157-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u29e52355370c4a8dc0d3b74ece4b0157:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Plato Essay Thesis We will write a custom essay on Sports Memorabilia a True Hobby specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now In conclusion, by collecting sports memorabilia a person can make money, gain notoriety and have fun. One of the nice things about collecting sports memorabilia is the possibility that a hero can emerge at any time, seeming from out of the blue. Nothing can sum that up better than the slogan used for the New York Yankees a few years ago, at any moment, a great moment. Sports Memorabilia a True Hobby Essay Example For Students Sports Memorabilia a True Hobby Essay As he stepped up to the plate, he dug his right back foot into the dirt getting a firm stance. Little did he know that the ball given to the umpire before the game which cost just nine dollars and now coming at him was going to be worth a little over 2.7 million dollars in seconds. Mark McGwire is truly a reason why a person can make money, gain notoriety and have fun while collecting memorabilia. Making money through regular jobs is one thing, making money by collecting sports memorabilia is entirely another. If one wants to make money collecting sports memorabilia, one has to be patient because collecting memorabilia is not a get-rich-quick scheme. Two main reasons why the value of sports memorabilia increases are the passage of time and the achievements of the athletes. One way to get these items before they increase in value is to attend free autograph signing sessions. Another way for one to make money is to write to an athlete and get something signed for free, then turn around and sell it. One example of this is Vince DeAngello who started this process when only a kid and now owns a very successful sports memorabilia shop. I have personally received memorabilia through letters to athletes; I have seen their value rise, then I have sold them to a sports memorabilia shop for a profit. We will write a custom essay on Sports Memorabilia a True Hobby specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now One of the easiest ways to make money by collecting memorabilia is to follow rookies and get as much signed by them as you can. This is very convenient because rookies do not usually charge for their signatures. Also, as a first year player, rookies are more eager to sign autographs so they can make a favorable first impression. Not only can one make money by collecting sports memorabilia but one can also be seen as a hero in the eyes of the public. By collecting memorabilia, one can gain public recognition also. For example, the person who bought Mark McGwires seventieth homerun ball for $2. 7 million certainly gained public recognition. Anyone who donates a piece of his or her collection of memorabilia to a sports hall of fame such as the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York, will receive a great deal of public acclaim. Such recognition was given to the Rotary club who last year donated George Bretts pine tar bat to the Rockhurst Spectacular. The retired Royals reliever Jeff Montgomery is also known as a great benefactor to many charitable organizations. Considered a hero to many young children, Cal Ripken Jr. is known for his willingness to sign as many autographs as are requested both before and after games. Some people gain public notoriety by having memorabilia within their homes or business. I have gained a personal reputation for the amount of memorabilia I have in my house. Former baseball star Danny Jackson, owner of the Incredibowl draws people to his business not only to bowl, but also to gaze at his vast collection of sports memorabilia. With all of this money and fame, we often forget how fun, collecting memorabilia can be. The fun of collecting sports memorabilia can take many ways, shapes and forms. It is fun to meet star athletes and get autographs to add to your collection. One can also enjoy trading and collecting with people of similar interests. Not only does this fun come by trading, but also by watching your investment rise. My friend Brad Long was fortunate enough six years ago to invest $500 in a signed Mark McGwire jersey, which now is worth several thousands. I have also been privileged to watch my Joe Montana football go up in value. Sports memorabilia has brought many great hours of pleasure to my life, and others. I have had fun decorating rooms of my house with sports history. .u44c255eee9384851acccb8fa5131aede , .u44c255eee9384851acccb8fa5131aede .postImageUrl , .u44c255eee9384851acccb8fa5131aede .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u44c255eee9384851acccb8fa5131aede , .u44c255eee9384851acccb8fa5131aede:hover , .u44c255eee9384851acccb8fa5131aede:visited , .u44c255eee9384851acccb8fa5131aede:active { border:0!important; } .u44c255eee9384851acccb8fa5131aede .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u44c255eee9384851acccb8fa5131aede { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .u44c255eee9384851acccb8fa5131aede:active , .u44c255eee9384851acccb8fa5131aede:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .u44c255eee9384851acccb8fa5131aede .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .u44c255eee9384851acccb8fa5131aede .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u44c255eee9384851acccb8fa5131aede .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u44c255eee9384851acccb8fa5131aede .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u44c255eee9384851acccb8fa5131aede:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .u44c255eee9384851acccb8fa5131aede .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .u44c255eee9384851acccb8fa5131aede .u44c255eee9384851acccb8fa5131aede-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u44c255eee9384851acccb8fa5131aede:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Through A Narrow Chink: An Ethical Dilemma Essay My neighbor and friend Jamie Quirk has also inspired me by showing me his rooms of fun with endless memorabilia. In conclusion, by collecting sports memorabilia a person can make money, gain notoriety and have fun. One of the nice things about collecting sports memorabilia is the possibility that a hero can emerge at any time, seeming from .

I Quit How to Resign from Your Job With Professionalism

I Quit How to Resign from Your Job With Professionalism â€Å"I quit.† Seems easy, right? Like everything else in this world, not so much. You could send that very-on-the-nose note to announce your departure, but it’s really poor form. If you’re ready to move on to a new position, or you just can’t deal with your job any longer, there’s a process to sending a good and proper resignation letter. No matter how POed you are on your way out the door, you’ll be thankful later that you took the time to send a well-crafted, anger-neutral letter or email to your (soon to be former) boss.1. Why Send a Letter  2. When to Send the Letter  3. How to Send the Letter  4. What to Write  5. What Not to Write  6. The Sample Letter  Why Send a Letter?  Different  offices have many different ways to reach someone: interoffice chat, phone, email, meetings, coffee machine ambush, etc. So why go the official resignation letter route? It leaves a paper trail, in case there’s any question later abo ut timing, or your intent to leave. You can tell people you’re leaving through any channel, but you should always tell your boss first, and make sure that you follow up with an official letter. That way, he or she can forward it as necessary, and HR will have an official document and be able to start any necessary exit processes.When to Send the Letter  The timing on the letter varies according to a few different factors. First, always check your company’s HR policies. When you started, you may have signed something agreeing to give a particular amount of notice. Two weeks (10 business days) is an informal standard, but definitely double-check to make sure that this is a courtesy and not a legal requirement. If your start date at your new place is in two weeks and your current company requires three weeks’ notice, then things could get sticky. If you kept your onboarding documents at your current job, you can check those. Otherwise, a discreet email to HR shou ld be able to resolve the question for you, without advertising to everyone that you’re on your way out the door.When It’s Okay to LeakIf you have a good relationship with your boss, you should also plan to give him or her an unofficial heads-up before you send the official resignation note. Getting a formal announcement out of nowhere can feel like blindsiding, especially if you have a good working relationship.  Employees in the United States change their job once every three years on averageSo you might want to precede the whole process with a quick face-to-face meeting (as private as you can get it), and let your manager know that you’re leaving for a new job, or just leaving. You’re not obligated to go into great detail, about what your next steps are after you leave, but given that this person will likely be responsible for handling your duties in the interim and for initiating a search for You 2.0, a heads-up will likely be appreciated. Itâ€℠¢s a professional, respectful way to set the tone for your leaving.If you are genuinely worried about your manager having a bad reaction to the news, you can skip this step and go straight to the letter, or go through your HR department. Otherwise, most professional people accept this as a fact of life in the workplace, and will accept your resignation with the same level of graciousness that you put into it. Once you’ve sorted out the amount of notice you’ll be giving and have given your manager the courtesy heads-up, it’s time to hand over the letter.How to Send the Letter  If your company is one that handles everything via email, you can probably get away with emailing your resignation to your boss (after the face-to-face meeting). As a rule, though, it’s best to go the analog route and have a printed, signed version. If possible, have it printed, signed, and ready to go for your meeting with your boss. There’s no need to send it through the m ail, or recruit a singing telegram-ist to deliver the letter. If you don’t have it ready for your face-to-face meeting, make sure to hand it to your boss shortly afterward- you don’t want there to be any conflict over the amount of official notice you’re giving.What to Write  The content of a resignation letter is pretty straightforward. There’s no need to write a novel, with plotlines or long, tear-stained devotional passages about how you haven’t slept since you decided it was time to part ways with the company. The letter should have just the most straightforward information, with a little of your own voice thrown in:Greeting (addressed to your boss)I resign.My last day in the office will be†¦I appreciate the opportunities I’ve had in this role†¦I will be available to help with any transition duties, or training a replacement staff member.Thanks!RELATED:  5 Points to Hit in Your Resignation Letter Pretty simple. It’s not the place to weigh in on your replacement, or ask if you’ll get paid for unused vacation days. The purpose of the resignation letter is just to get it in writing that you are leaving in X amount of time.For a quick overview on how to handle the resignation process, Howdini has a great video:What NOT to Write (Or, Don’t Burn Bridges)  The resignation letter is also definitely not the time for axe-grinding. (That’s more of a venting-to-friends activity, not to be committed to paper.) If your boss is a jerk, or you can’t work for the company for X, Y, Z reasons, it doesn’t matter here. If you can’t quite manage a friendly tone, go for a civil one. And if you can’t find anything good to say about your time there, dig deep and†¦fib a little, if you need to.You may be about to blow this popsicle stand, but keep in mind that you’re probably not quitting to go live in a wifi-less cabin somewhere. You’ll be moving on t o other jobs, possibly even in the same industry. And people talk, especially when there’s good gossip. You want to be known as a consummate professional, especially as you’re gearing up to start somewhere new. The last thing you want is for your new boss to catch wind of a tantrum thrown on your way out of your last job. So even if the circumstances of your leaving are less than ideal, shake off the anger/annoyance/temptation and be gracious in your parting letter. If you really need to get some residual anger out of your system, funnel it all into an â€Å"I quit† movie marathon. Never forget that this letter will be part of the official record in your company. It will be seen by your boss, yes, but also HR and goodness knows who else. Please apply the same policy you should apply to all workplace communications: don’t write anything you wouldn’t want to be posted for the entire company to see.The Sample Letter  Hey Michael,I quit. I have a bet ter job offer, and honestly can’t stand the idiots in this office any longer.Bye,DwightUmm, no. Not only is this the wrong tone and unnecessarily antagonistic, it leaves out important information like an end date, and basic niceties like a â€Å"thank you.† Let’s try that again.Yo Michael, The time has come to say goodbye†¦Ã‚  So yeah, this is an official note to say I quit†¦Ã‚  It is with a heavy heart and a veil of tears that I announce I will be resigning†¦Ã‚  Dear Michael,  Please accept this note as a formal notification that I am resigning my position as Assistant (to the) Regional Manager to pursue other opportunities. My last day will be March 18, 2024.  I really appreciate the opportunities I’ve had here these past 12 years, and hope you know how much I’ve learned and grown in my role. I’ve learned an incredible amount about how to market and sell paper, both from our colleagues here and our clients. Over the next two weeks, I’d like to work with you on any necessary training or transition duties as I wrap up my time here.  I know the company will continue to have great success, and am so thankful to have been a part of it for so long. Please don’t hesitate to let me know if you have any questions, or if there’s anything you’d like to discuss about my departure.Best wishes,DwightMuch better! Resignation letters are hard because you’re writing an official document, so it may sound a little stiff or formal by default. Definitely err on the side of formality, because again- you never know who will be seeing this once you release it at work. It’s okay to make it sound like your regular voice, but just make sure you’re not going too informal, and that you’re hitting all the necessary elements (gracious tone, end date, availability to help with the transition up until that date).So while it might be tempting to create a stir on your way out (possibly involving Kanye West), you will never go wrong with a thoughtful, clear, and definitive resignation letter. It may be tempting to dismiss your current job as old news, or use this as a chance to burn someone or the company on the way out, but if you resist that urge, you’ll be the better for it later on. Viral social media stardom is fleeting, but your reputation is forever.

Financial Institutions Management Research Paper

Financial Institutions Management - Research Paper Example Berger et al (1995) provide that a bank’s market capital requirements as the capital ratio that increases the value of a bank in the absence of regulatory capital essentials. In the following parts of this paper, first depository institutions working in the Australia have been elaborated. It is followed by the ANZ De-composition analysis, highlighting the profit margin and other factors. Subsequent to that, it is followed by the calculation of the duration of ANZ’s assets and liabilities. Within that part, the evaluation has been added to define the impacts and representation of different terms. It is followed by the part yield curve mentioning the impact of a 10 basis point upward. Regulatory framework for depository institutions (500) There are two major depository institutions (DI) groups working in Australia. Banks and the non-bank depository institutions are authorized to deal with and provide related financial services. In Australia, the Australian Prudential Regu lation Authority (APRA) is the central body authorizing the financial institutions to conduct the financial intermediation. With the passage of time, the size of banks has substantially increased by volume and number of banks and bank branches. Particularly in 2005, the Commonwealth Bank of Australia remained the largest bank having total assets of $ 258.93 billion and held first rank till the end of 2005. Subsequent to that, National Australia Bank, Westpac and ANZ Banking Group were secured second, third and fourth positions respectively. Banks have the largest depository institutions as far as their size is concerned as they offer and provide a wide range of different products and services to the customers. The significant distinction between the banks and savings and credit unions, known as non-banking depository institutions, is that the banks do not have limited or particular types of assets or liabilities rather banks own a variety of assets and liabilities. For example, the ANZ possessed total assets $ 594,488 and $ 531,703 million in 2011 and 2010 respectively. Aggregately, the institutions aggregate growth in the total assets was recorded around 11.81 percent during that period; total liabilities remained $ 556,634 and 397548 million in 2011 and 2010 respectively along with the total growth was 11.85 percent during that period. In addition to that, further difference between these segments includes the differences in operating features along with different profitability across the size classes. Commercial loan portfolio, higher business venture funding, capital intensive support for the giant multi-national banks are some of the key operating features differences exist between the banks and other credit and savings depository institutions. During the period from 1985 to 2005, the aggregate number of banks operating inside Australia has gone up from 13 to 49. During that period, the growth driving factors include the presence of relaxation of entry re quirements and amendments in the regulatory framework and requirements of non-depository institutions. Over a period of time, the APRA has considerably revisited the regulatory policy pertaining to banking and other commercial-cum-financial activities in the country.

Strategic Planning (Tourism Focus) Continued Essay - 1

Strategic Planning (Tourism Focus) Continued - Essay Example Masdar City, Masdar Power, Masdar Carbon, Masdar Capital and Masdar Institute (Masdar-b, n.d). This paper will attempt to deal with the company’s Masdar City as this unit is engaged in infrastructural development that lead to the growth of the travel and tourism industry. This unit strives to develop a â€Å"global clean-technology cluster† called Masdar City which is situated â€Å"17km from downtown Abu Dhabi† (Masdar-c, n.d.). Masdar City can be developed as a major tourists’ destination. The company is aiming to develop this city backed with renewable energy and it is well designed with 40,000 residents. The primary essence of the Masdar City is on innovative technologies through R&D. United Arab Emirates (UAE) is now focusing on its tours and travel industry. The UAE Government has aimed to develop its important cities as a popular tourist attraction. For example, in Dubai, the leisure and hotel industry has grown significantly. The travel and tourism industry of Masdar City has a direct competition with Dubai. Moreover, other Gulf countries like Saudi Arab, Kuwait, and Oman etc are also trying to develop their travel and tourism industry. On the other hand, Middle East courtiers like Egypt are major tourist destinations and they are the major competitor of Masdar City in travel and tourism industry (Deulgaonkar, 2011). Tourism and travel industry primarily belong to global market as it targets entire global population. Therefore, the competition in travel and tourism industry is very high. The Masdar is highly respectable company of UAE and it has developed a higher corporate image in the market. The company is a focus-point for the entire nation as it is one the most developed renewable energy company. It has been continuously working for the development of the entire country especially for Abu Dhabi. One of the major tools for the company is its communicational and promotional activities. Its corporate website

Huge Impact of Primitivism on the Development of Modern Art Research Paper

Huge Impact of Primitivism on the Development of Modern Art - Research Paper Example The essay "Huge Impact of Primitivism on the Development of Modern Art" analyzes primitivist's huge impact on the development of the history of modern art. Primitivism is predominantly a Christian Caucasian view that view any form of art that is not Caucasian as primitive. Interestingly, art work from some major cultures like Greek, Egyptian and Roman art are not considered primitive. Islamic art, Chinese art and Indian art are also not considered as primitive art. Primitivism has its genesis in the 19th century when it was used in the description of imagery and motif art. Imagery and motifs are usually associated with primitive art. Primitivism first appeared in the Tahitian paintings of Paul Gauguin. Primitivism became a trend that was majorly practiced by German and French artists. Some of these artists were Jacob Epstein, Ernst Ludwig and Picasso. Primitivism has also not been thought to be the preserve of ancient people. It has been used to describe the work of self taught artis ts known for simplistic paintings. Primitive art from self-taught artists is also known as Naà ¯ve art or Outsider art. This kind of art has been seen in the works of artists like Paul Klee (1879-1940), Asger Jorn (1914-1973), Karel Appel (1921-2006) and Frida Kahlo (1907-1954). Primitivism was introduced to the Western world during the age of discovery, when unknown culture and people were discovered. The discovery age also saw the emergence of colonialism. Colonialism made indigenous culture and artifacts accessible.

Performance Management systems Essay Example for Free

Performance Management systems Essay 1. What is the main goal of a Performance Management System? Performance management systems are designed to improve both individual and organisational performance by identifying what skills are needed to perform a role, providing regular feedback and assisting the employees in their career development. The overall aim is to equip staff with the competencies and commitment to deliver on shared organisational goals . 2. Why is it necessary to develop and implement a Performance Management System? A well developed performance management system assist to develop staff and can result in significantly improved output and performance, which ultimately leads to improved results for the organisation. Without a well developed and implemented performance management system, an organisation can risk poor staff performance and a high turnover of staff due to lack of support. 3. What are the three stages of Performance Management? †¢ planning for performance – setting performance goals, establishing performance standards and setting performance expectations, identifying developmental goals in work (action) plans †¢ performance appraisal – observing, documenting and assessing performance †¢ performance improvement – providing regular feedback, review performance appraisal, rewarding excellent performance 4. List the four groups who are involved in Performance Management? †¢ your team †¢ you, as a supervisor †¢ human resource professional †¢ union representatives. 5. Why is it necessary to ensure that performance management and review processes are consistent with business objectives and policies? Staff performance plans must be based on the overall aims and objectives of the organisation so as to ensure that each staff member is working cohesively towards the same goal. They must also adhere to organisational policies so as to ensure that they are fair and consistent across the organisation. This also assures that they comply with legislation (that is, presuming that the policies set out stipulate this). 6. Write a paragraph explaining why you think performance evaluations are necessary and the method/s that you consider best to be utilized. I think the importance of performance evaluations is twofold. In my experience, working in an extremely under-resourced organisation, it has been very difficult for me in the past to gain feedback from my supervisors about my performance. One to one time with a manager is rare. This has at times resulted in frustration because I have felt as though I have not been able to gain direction in my work. I fear that at times this may be the case for the staff that I supervise also. Therefore, I believe that on one level performance management systems are extremely important as a method of support for staff. On a more obvious note, performance management systems can also lead to improved output and performance of individuals, which ultimately leads to improved results for the organisation. In terms of what method I believe to be most effective, I believe that there are some core principles that must be followed. The plans should be developed with staff so as to ensure owndership, implementation must be consistent and timely (3 month reviews shouldn’t be undertaken at 7 months! ). 7. Why is it important that both managers and employees receive suitable training in how to handle performance review interviews? Without training about how to handle performance review interviews, there is a very big risk that the appraisal will not be effective and even more concerning is that it could prove counterproductive and damage the supervisor/employee relationship. Training equips managers and team leaders with skills to conduct positive appraisals. It assist employees to understand the new relationships and how performance issues are openly discussed and resolved. Training sessions also can assist employee to see how their work links to the goals of the organisation. 8. Explain why and how often you think performance appraisals should be held? I believe performance appraisals should be held after 3 months in a role and then every 6 months following this. I write this in the context of the organisation for which I work. One to one time with your manager is difficult in our organisation and I believe that in the past this has led to staff feeling very unsupported. There has been quite a high turnover of staff in some programs and I believe that this could be addressed by stronger support systems in place from management. While some may argue that appraisals at such regular intervals can be difficult for managers to implement due to time constraints, I believe firmly that this investment will be returned in increased staff output. 9. Why is it important to recognize the contribution of your work group members and why should you do this? Recognising the contribution of group members is an important method of motivating staff. It reinforces positive contributions and shows their importance to the organisation. If the contribution of staff members is not recognised, it risks losing the motivation of a team who may feel that their work is for no purpose and is not appreciated. We all need a thanks! 10. List three pieces of legislation that are related to performance management †¢ Fair Work Act (2009) †¢ Workplace Health and Safety Act (1995) †¢ Awards/Enterprise Bargaining Agreements/Union Collective Agreements. 11. How would you devise a training plan incorporating both monitoring and coaching for individuals with poor performance? It is important to spend time to time to try and understand why a staff member may have poor performance. This is important in determining what action to take – be that formal training or coaching. The following points – from the course book – I would certainly include in any coaching I was to undertake: †¢Good coaches challenge employees and ask questions that help the employee to discover how to improve. †¢Coach when you wish to focus attention on any specific aspect of the employee’s performance. †¢A coaching meeting should focus on just one or two aspects of performance. †¢Any more than that and employees won’t remember the main impact of your meeting. †¢Keep coaching conversations brief and between 5 to 10 minutes long. †¢Being an effective coach requires understanding what motivates the members of your team. Remember that people are motivated in different ways. Be sensitive to the things that drive your people to perform. †¢When things are performing well, take the time to understand what is working and why. †¢Good coaching is guiding, not telling or doing. †¢Allow the employee to own the problem and its solutions. Ask them: ‘How finally feels as though she is getting somewhere. In terms of monitoring, I would plan more regular catch ups with the staff member (perhaps monthly) to discuss progress. I would continue to implement reviews at the times stipulated by organisational policy. I would also ask for regular feedback from the staff member. 12. How can you provide support services if required? †¢Provide details of union representatives †¢HR representative details †¢Training options †¢Set up future one-to-one meetings †¢Work manuals †¢Ã¢â‚¬Å"buddy† system in which staff member is teed up with competent staff member 13. If the individual continues to perform below expectations what process would be necessary to implement? If the poor performance continues, it may be necessary to give a written warning to the staff member. This is discussed further in question 20. 14. Why is it necessary to document and record performance? Documenting and recording performance can lower the risk if a person chooses to challenge a negative appraisal. Holding records of poor performance may assist to cover an organisation legally if the employee raises an unfair dismissal claim Documenting good performance is also important so as to avoid claims of favouritism for example of undeserving staff members. Documenting performance also makes it much easier when the time for appraisals comes around, particularly for managers who are managing a large number of staff. 15. Explain the term â€Å"interpersonal conflict† Interpersonal conflict is the most apparent form of conflict for workplace participants. It is a disagreement or differing views between two or more people over a particular idea, thought, or action.. Also language and personality styles often clash, which can create conflict in the workplace. ref http://www. mediate. com/articles/donaisB2. cfm 16. How does interpersonal conflict affect the workplace? Interpersonal conflict is is easy enough to observe in the form of office politics, gossip, and rumours. It can lead to a negative work environment, with groups forming within the workplace. Unless these conflicts are resolved, they can lead to a very challenging and unfriendly workplace. In more extreme cases, interpersonal conflict can lead to charges of harassment and discrimination or at least the feeling that such things exist.

The Role of Mexican-American Border Relations in the Political Process

The Role of Mexican-American Border Relations in the Political Process Throughout the 1990’s up until the present, Mexican-American political relations have been very inconsistent in their endeavors to define what the relationship should and will be between the two different countries. The massive influx of Mexican immigrants has commanded attention from the governments of both countries. This has resulted in attempts to make a working partnership acknowledging the fact that the peoples of Mexican decent have grown into the largest minority group in the United States and there are many issues to be hammered out by both countries in establishing just economic and political relations. However this effort has encountered many setbacks and questions of dedication to a working relationship between Mexico and the United States both in the past and currently. Politicians who once jumped on the bandwagon of demonizing Mexican Americans are now fronting to be their closest allies and representatives in order to gain there votes in reelection. Who were once a people solely confined to the lowest of economic class and labor, are slowly working their ways into the higher classes and employment opportunities. Conservative citizens prejudiced attitudes towards Mexicans is balanced out by liberal populations as well. While poor economic times and difficulty in finding employment tend to point fingers at populations like the Mexican immigrants, there is still a need for the cheap labor in the fields and factories to keep production moving. The list of contradictions goes on and on and this complex issue will remain one for years. The goal of this paper is to address Mexican-American relations of the past and the present, and to pr... ...beth. Making Labor Flexible: The Recomposition of Tijuana's Maquiladora Female Labor Force. Feminist Economics 6, no. 3 (2000), 59-79. Global Exchange. Maquiladoras: Sweatshops by any other name. http://www.globalexchange.org/education/california/DayOfTheDead/maqui ladoras .html Guskind, Robert. â€Å"Border Backlash.† National Journal 4 June 1994: 1296-1299. Muller, Henry. â€Å"There is a Limit to What We Call Absorbant.† Time 18 Nov. 1991: 54-63 Natives: Immigrant Bashing on the Border. Film â€Å"Powell says U.S. eager for immigration agreement with Mexico† (Cnn.com) 30 May 2003. Rodriquez, Cindy. â€Å"Tamales no substitute for a place on podium.† Globe. 12 August, 2000.

Language acquisition Essay

Discuss synchronic and diachronic approaches to language. In opposition to the totally historical view of language of the previous hundred years, Ferdinand de Saussure emphasized the importance of seeing from two distinct and largely exclusive points of view, which he called â€Å"synchronic† and â€Å"diachronic†. The word â€Å"chronic† has been derived from Greek word â€Å"chronos† which means time. Synchronic linguistics sees language as a living whole, existing as a state at a particular point in time (an ital de langue, as Saussure put it, Greek â€Å"syn†-with, chronos – time). Diachronic linguistics concerns language in its historical development (Greek dia through, chronos – time). Thus descriptive linguistics is known as â€Å"synchronic linguistics† and studies a language at one particular period of time. Historical linguistics is known as diachronic or temporal linguistics and deals with the development of language through time. For example, the way in which French or Italian have evolved from Latin, and Hindi from Sanskrit. It also investigates language change. A study of the change from Old to Middle English is a diachronic study. Old English Middle English chint knight  stan ston a o In the same way, the study of a writer’s development from youth to maturity is an example of diachronic study. The way in which Shakespeare’s style changes from youth to maturity is also an instance of diachronic study. Saussure says: â€Å"Synchronic linguistics will concern the logical and psychological relations that bind together co-existing terms and from a system in the collective mind of speakers. Diachronic linguistics, on the contrary, will study relations that bind together successive terms, not perceived by the collective mind but substituted for each other without forming a system. † Thus synchronic linguistics deals with systems whereas diachronic with units. The relationship between the both aspects of language study was diagrammatically represented by Saussure in the following way: C X–X1–X2–X3 B A D Here AB is the synchronic axis of simultaneities, CD is the diachronic axis of succession. AB is a language state at an arbitrarily chosen point in time on the line CD (at X); CD is the historical path the language has traveled, and the root which it is going to continue traveling. The point of intersection X indicates that neither excludes the other completely. If CD represents evolution over a period (say 100 years from 1850 to 1950), X1, X2, X3†¦ represent the successive state of language 1860, 1870, 1880, 1890 and so on. The difference between descriptive or synchronic and historical or diachronic linguistics can be illustrated by the diagram of Saussure itself, who was the first person to point out the necessity of distinguishing between the two approaches. We may think this is fairly obvious distinction if it had not been the case that some quite eminent 19th century scholars had failed to draw it. And it needs to be drawn. Neither excludes the other completely, of course, there must be a point of intersection in terms of the above mentioned diagram. But being aware of, the distinction allows us to focus attention more answeringly on language from a given consistent angle. Moreover, due emphasis on the synchronic (which had been neglected dimension before Saussure) helps to clarify the important point that a diachronic investigation always pre-supposes, to some extent a synchronic study. It is impossible to consider the way a language has changed from one state to another without first knowing something about the two states to be compared. This need not to be a pair of complete synchronic descriptions, of course, to complain that it would be a distortion of what linguists actually do in practice but some nonhistorical analysis is essential as a preliminary. Saussure rounds off his discussion with various analogies, of which his analogy with a game of chess is perhaps the most famous. If we walk into a room while a chess game is being played, it is possible to assess the state of the game by simply studying the position of the pieces on the board (as long as we know the rules): we do not normally need to know the previous moves from the beginning of the game. And likewise the state of board at every move is implicit in any pattern of play we may wish to study. The synchronic/diachronic distinction, Saussure claims, is very much like this. And, without wanting to push the analogy too far, we can agree with him. Throughout the 19th century linguistic research was very strongly historical in character. One of the principal aims of the subject was to group language families on the basis of independent development from a common source, or to study language change. The description of a particular language was made subsidiary to this general aim, and there was little interest in the study of a language of a given community without reference to historical consideration. Saussure’s distinction between diachronic and synchronic investigation of the language is a distinction between two opposing view points. Nevertheless, valid diachronic work has to be based on good synchronic work because no valid statement about linguistic change can be made unless good description of a language does exist. Similarly a synchronic statement may well reflect certain historical developments. For example, two vowels of `reel’ and `real’ are described as being basically different because the historical facts show different sources for the `ee’ and the `ea’. On the other hand, we find statements like `ought’ is the past tense of `owe’ and `dice’ is the plural of `die’. One can point out that these statements are diachronically, but not synchronically, true. A synchronic approach is enough to gain mastery over a contemporary language, but it is necessary to have a diachronic description to understand the evolution of that language.

Adaptation Othello Essay

The main characters in Act 1 are Othello, Brabantio, Roderigo, Iago, Cassio, The Duke and Desdemona. There are also two senators in the play as well as an Officer, a Sailor and a Messenger. I will now give a brief description of each one of these characters. Othello: A commander for the Military Force of Venice. Being an origin of Mauritania, he is referred to as a â€Å"Moor†. His triumphant line of work brings him a high rank in Venice. We know this from how people refer to him â€Å"Valiant Othello† (Act 1 Scene 3, Line 48, Duke) But being a foreign person of a different colour, he is socially separated from those whom he works with. He is a military man, with repute for bravery in combat and fine judgment in military matters. In act 1, we learn that Othello falls in love and marries Desdemona without Desdemona’s fathers consent. Brabantio: A member of the Venetian Senate. He is the father of Desdemona and brother of Gratiano. His first appearance is in Act 1 Scene 1 where Iago and Roderigo tell him that Othello has married his daughter. When he hears of his daughter’s marriage to Othello, Brabantio accuses Othello of using magic on his daughter to bewitch her into loving him. Brabantio consequently brings Othello to court in front of the duke and two senates. After the events that happen he disowns his daughter. He advises Othello that, â€Å"She has deceived her father, and may thee† Desdemona: Desdemona is the daughter of Brabantio; a man of high repute in Venice. For that reason, Desdemona is an upper class lady. Desdemona elopes with Othello and escorts him to Cyprus. After Cassio is shamed, she pleads for his reinstatement, an act which her husband interprets as proof of Iago’s inference that she is disloyal. She is eventually slaughtered by Othello in the final scene of the play. Roderigo: Roderigo is a Venetian gentleman frantically craving Desdemona. Roderigo tells Iago that he does not appreciate him using his money. â€Å"I take it much unkindly, that thou, Iago, who hast had my purse†¦ † However, when Iago tells him his plot in order to capture Desdemona’s heart Roderigo forgets Iago’s â€Å"theft† and agrees to kill Cassio. He does everything that Iago asks him to do and has no idea that he is being systematically cheated by him. In the final scene of the play, he wounds and gets wounded by Cassio in an unsuccessful attempt to murder the lieutenant, and as a consequence he is killed by Iago. Iago: Iago is Othello’s servant. When Othello promotes Michael Cassio, Iago feels affronted and conspires to affront them both. He manipulates Cassio into making himself look bad and urges Roderigo to slay Cassio. When the plot fails, he kills Roderigo to make sure he does not show him up. Iago convinces Othello of Desdemona’s deceitfulness and maneuvers him into killing her. He then murders his own wife, Emilia, and is taken into custody by Cassio at the play’s end. Michael Cassio: Cassio is a gentleman soldier; he comes from Florentine and has a weakness for women and alcohol. Cassio is well bought up, and well learned. He is one of Othello’s lieutenants. Iago uses him in his plot to destroy Othello; Iago hints throughout the play that Cassio is having an affair with Othello’s wife, Desdemona. Iago eventually uses Cassio to fuel Othello’s jealousy into murderous anger. The other characters in Act 1 are the duke, the senators, the officer and the messengers. Cast List on following page†¦ Denzel Washington Denzel Hayes Washington, Jr. (born December 28, 1954) is a two-time Academy Award- winning American actor and director. He has garnered much critical acclaim for his portrayals of several real-life figures, such as Steve Biko, Malcolm X, Rubin â€Å"Hurricane† Carter, Frank Lucas, and Herman Boone. Ian Mckellen Sir Ian Murray Mckellen, CH, CBE (born 25 May 1939) is a British stage and screen actor, the recipient of the Tony Award and two Oscar nominations. Mckellen is best known to moviegoers in recent years for his roles as Gandalf in the Lord of the Rings film trilogy and as Magneto in the X-Men trilogy. His work has spanned genres from serious Shakespearean and modern theatre to popular fantasy and science fiction. He was made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 1979, knighted in the 1991 New Year Honors for his outstanding work and contributions to the theatre. In the 2008 New Year Honors he was made a Companion of Honour (CH) for services to Drama and to Equality. Liv Tyler Liv Tyler (born July 1, 1977) is an American actress and model. She is perhaps best known for her roles of Grace Stamper in Armageddon and Arwen in The Lord of the Rings trilogy. She is the daughter of Aerosmith’s front man, Steven Tyler. Timothy Spall Timothy Leonard Spall OBE (born February 27, 1957) in Battersea, is an English BAFTA award-nominated film, stage and television actor. Spall, the third of four sons, was born in Battersea, London to a postal worker father and a hairdresser mother. He trained at the National Youth Theatre and RADA, where he was awarded the Bancroft Gold Medal as the most promising actor in his year.

Famous Celebrity Trials and Court Cases

Famous Celebrity Trials and Court Cases Even the rich and famous can find themselves in trouble with the law. Being a celebrity in the United States does not protect you from the pursuit of justice. Nor does it protect you from becoming a crime victim. These stories give the timeline of criminal investigations and trials of cases involving celebrities. Some of the cases are closed and adjudicated, while others are still on-going. The Death of Michael Jackson On June 25, 2009, less than a month before he was scheduled to begin a series of comeback concerts, paramedics were called to Michael Jacksons rented home in Holby Hills near Los Angeles where they found him unconscious and not responding. The Trial of Michael Jackson Pop singer Michael Jackson faced charges of conspiracy to commit child abduction, false imprisonment and extortion, three counts of committing lewd acts upon a child, attempted lewd acts upon a child, and four counts of administering intoxicating agents to assist in the commission of a felony. The Legal Saga of O.J. Simpson On Sept. 13, 2007, Simpson and four other men entered a Las Vegas casino hotel room where some of his sports memorabilia were being offered for sale by two collectors. Police arrested O.J. Simpson on kidnapping and armed robbery charges. The Robert Blake Case Robert Blake faced trial for the murder of Bonny Lee Bakley and soliciting two other men to kill her. Bakley, 44, was shot to death on May 4, 2001, as she sat in Blakes sports car behind a restaurant where the couple had just dined. The Phil Spector Case Legendary rock and roll music producer Phil Spector was charged with the fatal shooting of former actress Lana Clarkston Feb. 3, 2003, at his Los Angeles mansion. The Jennifer Hudson Family Murders On October 24, 2008, the bodies of Academy Award-winning actress Jennifer Hudsons mother and brother were found in the familys home on Chicagos South Side. Shot to death were Hudsons mother, Darnell Donerson, and her brother, Jason Hudson. The Legal Troubles of Joe Francis Joe Francis, who has made millions from his Girls Gone Wild videos and magazines, has found himself entangled in legal trouble in civil and criminal courts on the state and federal levels. The Kobe Bryant Case Professional basketball star Kobe Bryant, 24, was charged with a single count of felony sexual assault against a 19-year-old woman at an exclusive spa where he was staying when he came to Colorado for knee surgery in the summer of 2003.

Pacific gas and electric Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Pacific gas and electric - Essay Example During PG&E’s first year in operation an earthquake destroyed one of its facilities – North Beach Gas Works. However, it’s two other facilities Potrero Works and Martin Station. Between 1905 and 1912 the company’s billing system was based on a flat rate. However in 1912 the decision was taken to begin installing meters, thereby getting rid of the flat rate billing system (Wikipedia). In 1930 the company began the delivery of natural gas to San Francisco and Northern California using what was at that time the longest pipe line in the world. This pipeline connects the Texas gas fields to Northern California. One of the characteristics of this system is that at 300 miles intervals there was a compressor station that consisted of cooling towers. Having introduced natural gas in 1930 PG&E started the task of retiring manufacturing facilities that were major sources of pollution. Some of the plants ware kept on standby in case they became necessary (Wikipedia). After World War 11, PG&E built numerous facilities including 14 new hydroelectric plants and 5 steam plants. At the end of 1992 the company operated 173 electric generating units and 85 generating stations. Additionally, it had 18,450 miles of transmission lines and a whopping 101,400 miles of distribution systems (Wikipedia). In the latter part of the 1990’s the company sold off a substantial portion of its natural gas plants leaving only a few. This meant that it had to purchase power from energy generators in order to satisfy the demands of its customers. Even though the purchase price of power was fluctuating PG&E was forced to sell power to its customers at a fixed cost. The company still maintained its hydroelectric plants along with the Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Plant. PG&E’s competitors included Enron Corporation which dominated the market and along with other corporations pushed the prices up for electricity. This resulted in the California electricity crisi s that began in 2000. In 1995 PG&E Corporation was incorporated. It’s primary purpose to hold shares in Pacific Gas & Electric Company. PG&E Corporation became the holding company of Pacific Gas and Electric Company in 1997. The company operates in both northern and central California. The company generates income mainly through the sale and delivery of electricity and natural gas to customers (Annual Report 2009). Operations in the 21st Century In 2000 there was a major incident where the company allowed water tainted with cancer causing chromium to seep into underground water supplies which affected residents in the community of Hinkley in California (Joseph Ascenzi 2000). PG&E later filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2001 and emerged from that situation three years later in 2004 after distributing over $10 billion to creditors (Wikipedia). Since that time the company has turned around its operations and is currently making profits. The company’s power generating por tfolio is extensive and consists of an extensive hydroelectric system, one operating nuclear power plant, one operating natural gas and another gas fired plant which has recently been reconstructed. The company’s hydroelectric portfolio is the largest under private ownership as opposed to government ownership in the Unites States. It draws water from approximately 100 reservoirs along 16 river basins. Its maximum output is approximately 4,000 mega watts (MW). The only operating nuclear

HR Questions Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

HR Questions - Essay Example Organizations have actually embarked a great deal of changes and expectations from the work force, which has quickened the role of HRM. Three tends that are changing the function of HRM are change management, strategic planning and training and management. These roles have relatively changed a great deal because of economic and technological changes, diversity and increasing demographics and organizational restructuring. For instance, considering socio-political polices which were considered as non-central to HRM are now doing strategic planning. Similarly, change management has to be undertaken by carefully allocating diversity within the organizations as people from different backgrounds and nationalities have become part of organizations. Q2- Describe the differences between internal equity comparisons and external equity comparisons, and explain their consequences on the organization. External equity comparisons are one, when an employer decides to pay wages to his or her work fo rce according to the pay rates implemented by other employers in the market place. For this reason, employers are expected to measure the labor markets to get an idea of how he or she will have to design wage plan. On the other hand, internal equity comparisons occur when an employer decides to pay wages to the employees, according to the nature of job, i.e. the more the work performed by a worker, the more wages he or she will earn. External equity comparisons may result in higher wages being paid to the employees, even if they have not put sufficient input in performing their assigned jobs. Whereas, internal equity comparisons create an environment, where the employer and employees both have fair portion of the money they earn for their efforts at work place. Q3- Discuss comparable worth by (1) defining it and (2) citing four potential problems in its implementation. Comparable worth is an idea, which entails that each worker should receive equal wages, regardless of the gender. C omparable worth is also known as pay equity and it allows an employer to pay equal amounts to different job titles according to their worth for the employer. The biggest problem with comparable worth is that the jobs performed by female workers are usually undervalued or do not have significant impact on the operational capacity of the organization. Moreover, implementing such systems would cause disturbance among male workers, as they will be performing tougher tasks and receiving the same amount as women. Male workers might also raise their voice against this gender discrimination. From social perspective, the individuals might also see it as an act of inequality and denial to the idea that every individual should be treated equally, regardless of the gender. Q4- Describe five reasons why merit pay programs may not help organizations increase their overall productivity. Q5- What are some issues of procedural justice that might arise in administering merit pay? In any company setup where rewards are offered by the management to employees they tend to assess these rewards on the basis of two distinct dimensions, which are namely distributive and procedural. Distributive dimension is related to the evaluation of the value of reward they have received; whereas procedural dimension is related to the assessment of the process, which is adopted by the management to decide the value of reward. Important aspects of procedural justice that may arise in administering merit pay may include 1) whether the manager or supervisor performs his duties ethically 2) whether the manager allow opportunity to employees to express their viewpoints and actually takes them into consideration 3) whether uniform standards