Global Strategic Management in the Business World Research Paper

Global Strategic Management in the Business World - Research Paper Example   One of the major myths prevailing in the organizational world until recent times was that if a company wishes to be a global corporation, it does need to locate in every continent or at least in American and European continents. However, such beliefs have been changed in recent times. It is illogical to argue that a company should invest even in unprofitable continents to know as an international company or global corporation. In order to become a global company, a company should invest only in profitable continents. â€Å"Global business consists of transactions that are devised and carried out across national borders to satisfy the objectives of individuals, companies, and organizations. These transactions take on various forms, which are often interrelated† (Czinkota, et al., 2004). However, it is not necessary that the business should be established in all continents to label it as a global business. For example, the majority of the American and European companies are currently trying to establish manufacturing units in India and China as a cost reduction strategy. It should be noted that India and China are the most heavily populated countries in the world at present and these countries have abundant skilled manpower. At the same time, the manpower shortage is a big problem in America and Europe. In other words, America and Europe are expensive labor-oriented regions whereas Asia is a cheap labor-oriented continent at present. Since the international market is heavily competitive, all companies are currently looking for the cost reduction strategies as far as manufacturing is concerned. It is impossible for American and European companies to manufacture goods in their own territories and compete effectively with Indian or Chinese companies in the international market. Therefore the majority of these companies are currently establishing manufacturing units in India or China. For example, Apple, Ford, BMW, Benz etc are some companies which have ma nufacturing units in India or China. In fact, these companies are manufacturing their products in India or China and exporting them to the overseas market. The Indian city of Bangalore is famous for outsourcing business. Plenty of American and European IT companies are currently operating in Bangalore in order to exploit the cheap labor and IT skills of the Indians. Microsoft and IBM like companies have business units in Bangalore. It is illogical to ask these companies to establish the business in Antarctica or Africa to achieve global status. Instead of globalization, modern companies are thinking about glocalization. â€Å"Glocalization encourages companies to â€Å"think global, act locally†, and they could do so by using the global brand while localizing certain elements of that brand in order to suit a particular country†(Luigi & Simona, n.d., p.1).

Architect Antonio Gaudi Essay Example for Free

Architect Antonio Gaudi Essay The work of Antonio Gaudi can be seen as visionary. Ahead of his time in many respects, it becomes clear when viewing his work that he influenced many of the great revolutionary artists of the early 21st century. The significance of his life-works as an artist and particularly as an architect reveals extraordinary contributions to the thought processes of the ‘Modernists’. Looking at some two of his architectural pieces, we can discover an entirely new meaning to architecture altogether. Antonio Gaudi displays many of the fantasy elements indicative of the Surrealist movement, although his work was categorised as Art Nouveau. His progression from Art Nouveau to near-Surrealist work can be seen in comparing the reasonably modest Palau Guell (1886-1890) to Casa Battlo (1906-1908). Palau Guell is a grand scale expression of extravagance which still has many of the attributes of Classicism. It is beautiful and decadent with every aspect of glamour and frivolity related to the Art Nouveau period. Gaudi, I feel has restrained his imagination in the sense that he has not indulged in the same fantasy world we see in his later works. The Palau Guell is almost a modern incantation of the ancient Greek and Roman Colloseums. Casa Battlo represents a rather unusual perspective of the artistic movement itself. The Casa Battlo in its design resembles more of a candy-castle than a functional building. The exterior of the building is scattered with ceramic designs that Gaudi had plastered into the facade. At face value this gives the viewer a sense of the ‘other world’, a place where children go in their dreams. This was in fact, in my opinion, the beginning of the Surrealist manifesto. Completely out of keeping with the original idea of architecture, Gaudi creates a building that not only performs a function but contributes to the aesthetic value of the surroundings into which it is placed. The roof of the Casa Battlo is covered in what appears to be scales, almost aquatic in its construction, but at the same time not intrusive. At this stage it is difficult to ascertain in ones own mind whether you like it or hate it. The balconies extending from the large bay-windows are also intricately carved and resemble to a degree, alien-like heads with large gaping eyes. The vision of Art Nouveau as outrageously decorative, embellished and facetious is clearly visible in this particular piece of Gaudi’s work. The exploration of the fantasy world gives it an uncanny feel of something out of the fairytale Hansel and Gretel and can make you fell uneasy. In the strict sense of the word ‘influence’, I can be certain that I see the predecessor to the Surrealist movement in Gaudi’s work. The idea of dreams rather than reality begins to emerge in his later work which is passionately infused with richly decorative mosaics and other ceramic artefacts. If one takes into account the impression Art Nouveau wanted to make, I think Gaudi surpassed it with the kind of architectural eloquence worthy of being called a ‘visionary’. Art Nouveau’s mantra of snubbing Classical rigidity was flouted by Gaudi and his contemporaries and led to the influence of architectural movements such as Bauhaus and sculptural artistic endeavours such as Tatlin, Dali and Leger. The previous attempts at breaking from traditional art as explored by the Impressionists served to fuel a more fertile mind in terms of the architecture of Gaudi. In Gaudi’s work we see the expression of the mind in tactile form. Looking at the features built around Guell Park, evidences of the movement into the exploration of colour in architecture is also visible. The water fountains are embellished with mosaic fish and other aquatic-like creatures that by some people’s standards would be described as ‘kitsch’. However, for me this fantasy world does exactly what it was intended to do: create a feeling of euphoria and joy. It is not functional beyond the aesthetic. Gaudi is ahead of his time.

HM Analysis: Ansoff Matrix, Five Forces and PEST

HM Analysis: Ansoff Matrix, Five Forces and PEST H and M is a Swedish worldwide company which operates in the fashion sector. Its main competitors are INDITEX, GAR and Arcadian Group. The firm offer fashion cheap quality products on more than 2000 stores placed in 37 countries including Europe, Asia, North America and Middle East. It tries to adapt their products and their business model to the new market to facilitate the entry in a different cultural market country. The company has a strong corporate social responsibility concept and is involved in community and environmental projects; however it has been criticized due to several scandals. Despite of the economic crisis which causes a huge drop in the consumption and therefore in the fashion spending; HM thanks to its policy of low prices is still a quite strong company and has a good financial reputation as its results and ratios show us. The profitability of this company is due to the coast leader strategy that it has followed, focused on the outsourcing of the manufacturing process to countries with low labour costs, which allows HM to sell cheap products and obtain high profits. Also the blame for this business successful is the differentiation strategy that they have developed with the help of celebrities and famous designers lines. Introduction to the company HM (Hennes Mauritz) is an internationally famous company which operates in the fashion industry and besides it also markets cosmetics and accessories. It was founded in Sweden in 1947 by Erling Pearson. In order to know its market share, we must say that in 2009, sales including VAT reached SEK 118,697 millions; furthermore, the number of employees is around 76,000  [1]  . Geographical markets The company has around 2000 stores in 37 countries worldwide, specifically in the European, Asiatic, North American and Middle East market. Germany represents the biggest market with the 25% of HMs total shares, followed by United Kingdom and Sweden. As curiosity we can say that Glasgow has 7 HMs stores. Related to the importance that online selling has nowadays, this service is now available in Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, Netherlands, Germany, Austria and UK.  [2]   Brands and products HM Group includes the brands COS, Monki, Weekday, Cheap Monday and HM home. The firm designs cheap yet chic clothing, offering this to the different segment markets (ladies, men and kids). Mission, values and goals HM describes its mission as Fashion and quality at the best price. In connection to the values, this company is driven by simplicity, continuous, improvement, team spirit, cost-consciousness and entrepreneurship. A sentence that can summarize HM values is the slogan We believe in people. Finally, HM goals are to intensify the sales in the existing stores, as well as, to increase the number of new stores by a net 10% to 15% per year. Expansion and maintaining of financial stability are HMs strategic goals. The growth, which is fully self-financed, will proceed with an emphasis on quality and continued high profitability.  [3]   Corporate Social Responsibility The company guarantees that its products are manufactured under good conditions. According to Karl-Johan Persson (CEO at HM) Being responsible is not only the right thing to do, it makes perfect business sense. (HM 2010) According to the HM 2009 Annual Report, HM acts in many markets as both a buyer and a seller. This requires HM to act responsibly and in a sustainable way with respect to the environment and social responsibility.  [4]   HM is very concerned with the supply chain working conditions, so because of that its very careful choosing the countries for the production and it also imposes a strict Code of Conduct  [5]  to its suppliers. Around sixty auditors works checking that this Code is being respected The company has environmental requirements on suppliers, as a clean production chain, green transport and sustainability policy and vision by sustainable use of resources and healthy products like the organic cotton. According to projects and cooperation, HM has developed community activities, like education and employment of woman and youth, water and innovation of sustainable textile materials. Also the company has collaborated such as UNICEF and WaterAid  [6]  . Furthermore, HM reports activities and progress on its sustainability programmes annually.  [7]   However, HM has starred in several scandals, for instance because they discarded bags of unwanted clothes outside HMS store in New York. These clothes could have been used by needy families in case not to have been intentionally damaged to avoid re-use. Besides, in March 2010, the company was criticized by pro-Palestinian groups for opening its first stores in Israel at the time when the UN Goldstone report highlighted Israels alleged violations of international law. C:Userspelegrià ±Pictureshm protesta palestina.jpg Furthermore, the German edition of the Financial Times newspaper has uncovered an alleged organic cotton fraud by European brands HM, CA, and Tchibo (Treehugger 2010) 2. External Environment To seek the main factors impacting on the industry attractiveness and on the environmental stability for HM Im going to use the study of competitors and the PEST analysis. 2.1 Competitors HMs main competitors in the most important markets are (Hoovers 2010): COMPANY COUNTRY BRANDS INDITEX Spain Zara, Oysho, Massimo Dutti, Pull Bear, Stradivarius, Zara Home and Uterqà ¼e GAP United States GAP, Banana Republic, Budgeteer Old Navy ARCADIA GROUP United Kingdom BHS, Dorothy Perkins, Miss Selfridge, Wallis, Topshop, Evans, Burton and Topman 2.2 Pest Analysis POLITICAL: HM is a Swedish brand so it has to follow the Swedish legislation, but also the laws of each country where it has establishments, for instance, in UK: The Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008 which implement the Unfair Commercial Practices Directive in the UK. The Enterprise Act 2002 which has wide-ranging implications for businesses and consumers. The Electronic Commerce Regulations 2002 includes the information that the company must share with online customers and regulates advertising. Distance Selling Regulations 2000: these laws are aimed at businesses that sell goods or services to consumers by the internet, mail order, phone or fax. The Competition Act 1998 which forbid certain types of anti-competitive behaviour. Its also remarkable that in 2009 the Swedish corporate tax rate was reduced to 26.3 from its previous level of 28%. Trading agreements: most of the HM business is located in EU countries -such as Germany and the UK- without custom duties. ECONOMIC: Although the GDP dropped because of the crisis, it has increased by the 1.2% in the second quarter 2010.  [8]   Since March the 5th 2009, the official bank rate is placed in 0.5%  [9]  , because of that the investment cost is low. Consumer spending on clothing rose by just 10%  [10]  between 2004 and 2008, well below the 19.2% increase in overall consumer expenditure during this period. Even though 2009 has been characterized by deflation, the inflation rate is again positive (1.14 in September 2010)  [11]  . That is to say the demand is starting to rise. SOCIAL Due to the social and environmental conscience, HM has to adapt its policy and products to the new customer awareness. Fashion is more and more interesting for young people and that is the reason why this consumer group spends a high part of its incomes on clothes. Customers seem to prefer customized garments. These kinds of products are supplied generally by online sellers but can represent a competence. Fast changing fashion styles make the designers to be ready for a reply. HM is operating in Middle East and in Asia, therefore it should take into account the social and cultural differences (religion, language or roles of men and women in the society) TECHNOLOGICAL: Technology to make clothing: more updated machines are necessary to accomplish certain colours and patterns. The development of media technology and the internet will make HM popularity to rise. Online selling, available now in seven markets 3. HM financial performance To know HMs financial situation I am going to make an analysis of the most important financial variables and also to compare them with Zara and Primarks ones. Sales per year UK is HMs fourth largest market, contributing 6.4% of its turnover (Mintel 2010). 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 SALES ( £) 400472 448583 527534 524531 565889 CHANGES IN SALES (%) 8,0986533 12,013574 17,600087 -0,569252 7,884758  [12]   In 2008, due to the financial crisis, UK suffered a huge drop in the GDP and in the consumption, for example the household clothing expenditure was 21,60  £ per week and in 2003 it was 27  £.  [13]  At the end of May 2010, sales rose by 15% due to the fact that 10 new stores opened. and at the end of May 2010, sales rose by 15% due to the fact that 10 new stores opened and at the end of May 2010, sales rose by 15% due to the fact that 10 new stores opened 14 In the previous graphic, we can see Primark has a bigger market share and besides it could profit of its low prices in the crisis, gaining ground to its competitors. Zaras turnover is lower than HM. Operating profit It has not followed any trend for the last five years, it has fluctuated depending on the year. 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 PROFIT ( £) 44260 62013 53041 8767 10576 CHANGES IN PROFIT (%) -2,906658 40,1107094 -14,46793 -83,47128 20,634196  [15]   In the previous table, the most notable thing is the sharp decline that the operating profit had in 2008. The causes are the increase in selling and administrative costs. According to the 2008 Annual Report this is mainly due to an increased cost level relating to reinforcement of the organization in preparation for the long-term investment in store expansion, Internet and catalogue sales and new initiatives. 16 As we can see in this comparative chart, the three companies operating profit has followed a similar tendency with an important drop in 2008. We can also notice that Zaras operating profit in UK moves in negative numbers. Liquidity Analyzing the following table, we can conclude that HM has a healthy financial position, because in general to have a current ratio higher than 1,5 is a good sign, even more if its a fashion retail company. 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 CURRENT RATIO 1.76 1.77 1.4 2.4 1.83  [17]   The liquidity or acid test ratio shows how liquid the company is relative to short-term liabilities. Stock is excluded as it can take months to turn into cash. As its higher than 1, we can say that the liquid assets exceed the current liabilities. 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 LIQUIDITY RATIO 0.97 0.96 0.88 1.77 1.22  [18]   It can be said that HM has sufficient money available to meet its short-term commitments. Thanks to the next graphic we can conclude that in liquidity terms Primark can have problems because its current ratio is always under 0,5. 19 Solvency 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 GEARING RATIO 34.61 81.82 110.09 52.24 51.12  [20]   The gearing ratio measures the proportion of the companys total capital that is borrowed. The higher the gearing ratio is, the bigger the proportion of the companies money that is borrowed and therefore the bigger the risk. In 2007 the ratio obtained was worrying because the loan capital was higher than the capital employed. This was due to the heavy investment that HM was doing in its international expansion and in new initiatives. 21 The chart shows us that Primark has solvency problems so it could have problems if interest rates are going up. On the other hand, Zara is solvent. Investment In this paragraph I have used the ROCE (Return on capital employed) which measures whether or not a company is generating adequate profits in relation to the funds invested in it and is a key indicator of investment performance. 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 ROCE 63.1 82.06 69.44 7.43 6.16  [22]   In retail lower figures would be experienced, ranging between 5% and 15% and in the last two years, is where HM is placed. We can see that this ratio had a sharp drop in 2008 but before this year this company was extremely profitable. 23 Primark is the best performance in this area and Zara has seriously problems above all caused by the negative numbers in its profits. 4. Competitive strategy 4.1 Porters five forces analysis In this paragraph, Im going to use Porters five forces analysis to determine the intensity of competition and profitability that can be expected in the fashion retail sector. C:Userspelegrià ±Picturesporters-five-forces-model.jpg  [24]   Threat of new entrants UK market is not saturated There are not barriers to entry in distribution due to the low capital required to open a new store. However, in manufacturing there are important barriers to entry due to the scales economies and to the high investment capital required. Fashion products have a high margin. Threat of substitute products For the fashion sector we must talk about replacing brands, not products. There are a lot of fashion retailers in the market which HM is present. Besides, the demand is very variable in this market because of the continuous changes in customers needs and requirements. Relation between quality and price is improving because of the outsourcing of manufacturing in countries with lower labour costs. Bargaining power of buyers One negative aspect is the almost nonexistent loyalty in the cheap fashion segment. Also the switching costs are low. Price is a very important variable for customers. Among the positive aspects its important to say that the volume of purchase is small, that is to say a single buyer is irrelevant for the company. Apart from customers association, they are not very well organized to defend their interests. Bargaining power of suppliers It is not very high because there are a lot of suppliers in countries with low labour costs. That is to say, retailers can impose the demanding conditions because they have more power than suppliers. Rivalry among existing firms in the fashion industry There are a lot of existing local, national and international competitors. The opportunities to growth are not very high because of the maturity of the sector. The price variable is very influential in consumers when considering alternatives. The quick changes in customers requirements do not permit to develop strong scale economies. In this market is very important the good image of the brand worldwide.  [25]   7.2 HM competitive strategies Cost leadership It is a strategy based on scale economies and in the outsourcing of the manufacturing process to countries with low labour costs. In this way the company can offer low prices  [26]  without losing quality and besides being profitable. Thanks to it, the company can self-finance to increase the number of stores and the sales. HM mission is offering quality at the best price. Differentiation strategy This strategy was implementing few years ago. Celebrities and famous designers have created exclusive collections for HM  [27]  . Thanks to these collaborations, the company achieves to differentiate in the fashion retail market. This phenomenon is called masstige  [28]  , and can be defined as an alliance between a prestigious brand and a mass consumer brand. Thanks to it, consumer can buy a branded product at an affordable price. Masstige is formed by two words mass market and prestige Customers perceive that HMs have an added value in comparison with other competitors and they are willing to pay a premium price for them. It the short run the company improves its turnover and in the long term it builds a stronger brand awareness and prestige that it could use to penetrate in difficult markets. 5. Strategic directions of development I am going to use Ansoffs matrix to analyze the main strategic directions followed by the company through the product and market: C:Userspelegrià ±PicturesAnsoff-Matrix.gif  [29]   Market penetration: This strategy is used to increase existing products sales in the current market. This can be achieved gaining competitors customers and encouraging them to acquire more companys products. HMs key for market penetration is offering fashionable clothing with cheaper prices than other competitors like Zara  [30]  . Doyle (2002) argues that the foundation of a successful brand is quality. The company is very concerned about that, therefore it has comprehensive quality control methods which guarantee customer satisfaction. Thanks to the strong advertising campaigns the company has increased its popularity worldwide helped by the globalization of fashion trends and lifestyles. Market development: Lynch (2003) says it involves targeting new segments of a market, identifying new uses for the companys products or entering new international markets. HM internationalization strategy is based on entering one market at a time. Although the standardization of HMs products, the company introduces slight variations to be adapted to the new market culture. According to the new market segments, the company has launched COS (Collection of Style) with more expensive and smarter clothes than the HMs common one. Product development It can be defined that offering really new and innovative products to the current customers. HM develop this strategy, for example, through strategic alliances with famous designers and fashion icons like Karl Lagerfeld, Madonna or Roberto Cavalli which improve HMs prestige worldwide. Furthermore, the company concerns about research and development, for instance, it introduced environmental friendly materials like organic cotton in its 2008 Spring Collection and then along its entire range of products. Also it is important to underline here that HM has created perfumes, cosmetics and beauty products. Besides as I have said in the introduction HM has a home line available on the internt. C:Userspelegrià ±Pictureskarl.bmp . Diversification: This strategy is the riskiest because it means to develop new products and entering new markets. HM has been focusing in fashion items like clothes, jeweler, shoes, bags or accessories so it has not developed very much this strategy. Only they have performed a diversification strategy, specifically household items through HM Home.  [31]   The company has also developed curious products such as the stuff pack for the computer game The Sims 2 called Fashion Stuff Pack in June 2007 in collaboration with Maxis game developers. 2 6. Methods of development In this section, I am going to analyse the methods of development used by HM in the recent years, and besides the benefits and challenges that each one involve. Lynch (2003) said that HM has followed a forward vertical integration strategy as method of growth. This means that the company develops activities oriented to customers, the final product and the distribution network (retailing) more than related with suppliers (backward integration). Thanks to this strategy, the company can collect information about sales and customers needs to reply quickly to changes in the fashion market. HM and Zara are known as fast-fashion retailers. This has permitted them to expand successfully in Europe, Asia and America. However, they have a different internationalization strategy, because HM tends to adapt its products and strategy o the new market while Zara reproduces the original successful business model in all the markets. Zara prices vary depending on the country while HM has the same price in all the markets in which it is present HM is a strong financially company which seeks to maintain a good profitability in its growth strategy. We can say that the growth is substantive but also controlled. The growth goals are to increase the number of stores by 10-15% per year, as well as increasing sales in existing stores. In the last five years, the company has had a great growth in number of stores, turnovers and earnings per share. Focusing on HMs geographical expansion, its first store abroad was opened in Norway in 1964. Then it continued with the expansion in UK, Denmark, Switzerland and Germany. In the 1990s, it opened stores in Finland, France, Belgium, Austria, Portugal, Spain and the Netherlands. The first store in US was opened in New York in March 2000. The first store in Asia was in Dubai in 2006, and thanks to a franchising strategy. After this, it entered to East Asia by opening stores in Hong Kong and Shangai  [32]  in 2007. Japan in 2008, Russia in 2009 and Corea in 2010 were the following countries to enter. The two first Israeli stores opened in 2010 and as I said in the introduction there were pro-Palestine group protests. It is planned to open new stores in Croatia and Singapore for 2011. HM main method of entry is an organic growth by opening is own stores in the new market. But we can see also that since 2006 the company has followed a franchising strategy in Middle East to open 3 stores in Dubai in agreement with M.H. Alshaya, a company from Kuwait specialized in holding franchises with international retail brands. In this paragraph I am going to use the SPACE matrix (Strategic Position Action Evaluation matrix) which is a management tool used to analyze a company and to determine what type of strategy it should undertake. Rowe et al. (1989) developed this model based on four important variables: The stability/ turbulence of the environment Industry attractiveness The competitive advantage The companys financial strength Throughout this report I have analyzed these variables, therefore it can be argued that HM is a strong financially company, as the sales, profits and financial ratios show. To determine the industry attractiveness it is useful the Porters five forces seen in the section 4. Following with the environmental stability we can use the PEST analysis done in the section 2 and for the competitive advantage it has to be taken into account the strategic directions and the methods of development. After having analyzed all these points and drawing the SPACE matrix, it can be concluded that HM should follow an aggressive strategy. HM has a strong competitive position in the market (a known brand worldwide) and a quite good financial position to support this strategy. It needs to use its internal strengths to develop a market penetration and a market development strategy. In fact it is the strategy that HM has been followed in the last years, as the expansion to Asia and Middle East show (market development strategy) and opening more and more stores in the existing markets such as Europe (market penetration). As recommendations, it can be suggested that the company entered South American market by performing a market development strategy. HM has not arrived yet to this market and it would be very interesting due to there are a lot of customers in this market interesting in buying fashion cheap clothes and the company could adapt quickly to the South American market culture, gaining ground to its competitors within a market full of opportunities to growth. On the other hand as a market penetration strategy it can be suggested to follow with the opening of new stores in the current market, increase the size of the existing stores and try to manage present products and services more effectively.

Nell :: essays research papers

Nell 1) The loss of Nell's twin sister had a dramatic effect on her. Nell and May were raised in a secluded environment with no outside contact. As a result, May and Nell became very close emotionally and were an integral part in each others lives. When May died, Nell lost part of her life as well which resulted in vivid memory replay. A good example of this is when Nell was turning around in circles by herself but, in her mind, she was turning around in circles with her missing half. At the end of the movie, the evidence of the importance of May in Nell's life was still evident as Nell played will Jerry's daughter on the rocks that May and her once played on. The movie did portray what is generally believed about twins. The loss of one had a dramatic effect on the other. They had their own twin speech and their own games. At the end of 20 plus years, Nell still felt the loss of her twin sister.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  2) The expert psychologist in the movie believed that Nell was mentally retarded and had made a small amount of intellectual development as a result of being raised in seclusion. Fortunately, they were wrong. The speech that Nell gave in the courtroom proved that she had developed intellectually. While the language that she used was different, Nell still gave a good list of very abstract ideas that someone who is mentally retarded could not possibly comprehend. Nell understood why she was different saying that she was raised in a small world and knew small things unlike the large things found in the city of Charlotte, N.C. This proved that Nell was very capable of living by herself and taking care of herself.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  3) The experts, in the beginning of the movie, said that Nell was not capable of making the correct judgments to make in the world by herself. They did not believe that Nell had the wisdom to make the correct choices in life situations. It seemed evident to me that Nell already possessed more than enough wisdom to make it on her own. After all, she basically took care of her crippled mother all by herself.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  4) Nell is not mentally retarded. Nell was raised in seclusion with her twin sister and a crippled mother. The things that Nell learned were obtained socially from a woman that had loss the use of part of her body. The body language that Nell had learned were obviously learned from observing her mother. For an outside viewer Nell must have looked like she was mentally

Immigration is a new identity in Brick Lane by Monica Ali Essay

Monica Ali’s Brick Lane and Amulya Malladi’s Serving Crazy with Curry both portray the rising identity changes that occur with the first and second generation immigrants. Both novels reveal that when it comes to immigration, due to a difference in their surroundings and exposure to different cultures the second generation experiences a different setting which contributes to their developing identity. However, their developing identities becomes a contrast to the identities of the elder generation; thus creating a â€Å"culture clash†. â€Å"Culture Clash† is the act when one or more cultures are incorporated into one environment and as a result, traditions are challenged causing a disruption. First generation characters share the traits of being indignant of changing cultural values during immigration while the second generation are keen on conforming and leave their roots in exchange for freedom of being accepted into society. Through the characters and u se of language, both Monica Ali’s Brick Lane and Amulya Malladi’s Serving Crazy with Curry demonstrates how immigration creates a difference in identity that exists between the first and second generation. Coming to a completely different country, not knowing anyone at all, the first generation characters tend to be indignant. In both these novels the first generation immigrants express bitterness when adapting to different surrounding. Saroj Venturi from Serving Crazy with Curry, expresses her resentment towards the new culture, when she says â€Å"It was coming here, to this white pit that changed things between Avi and her. If they stayed in India, if only he’d wanted to stay, they would’ve been happy† (Malladi, 15). By comparing her new place of residence to a hole, Saroj feels trapped or exiled within this alien land, proving to be the motive for her resentment. Saroj displays her regret when she wishes to have stayed in India by saying that she would have been happier there thus providing a reason for her refusal to find happiness in her new environment. Similarly in Monica Ali’s novel Brick Lane, Chanu Ahmed was asked for permission by his wife, Nazee n, to attend English lessons and here he demonstrate the characteristic of resentment: Your going to be a mother†¦Will that not keep you busy enough?  And you can’t take a baby to college. Babies have to be fed; they have to have their bottoms cleaned. It’s not so simple as that. Just to go to college, like that. (Ali, 57) In this passage, Chanu rejects his wife’s idea of attending English classes and uses the excuse of his wife’s pregnancy and awaiting motherhood as a way of discouraging her. On top of that he also asks questions upon questions which may suggest bitterness towards her idea of going to school and attempting to fit in with society. Not only does Chanu discourage conform into society, he also discourages his daughters from becoming too westernized because he wanted to keep their Bengali culture rooted within themselves. Both Saroj from Serving Crazy with Curry and Chanu from Brick Lane being first generation immigrants demonstrate a common trait of resentment. Growing up in a place that is nothing like your place of origin, second generation immigrants convey acceptance while being raised in a different environment than their parents. The second generation immigrants identify themselves according to where they were born instead of their place of origin. Both Devi from Serving Crazy with Curry and Shahana Ahmed from Brick Lane, were both raised in a western environment and identify themselves as either â€Å"American† or â€Å"British†. Shahana presents her determination to fit into society when she states that â€Å"She wanted to have her lip pierced. This was latest thing. Last week she wanted to get a tattoo.† (Ali, 240). The act of getting piercings and tattoo’s are activities that are classified under western culture and when Shahana wishes to get them, it shows that she is eager to get involved and fit in with the society she is from. Getting a tattoo on her body, will represent the permanent residence of w estern culture within her life. Both Malladi and Ali portray the difference between resent and acceptance along with the idea of opposite traits enhancing the thought of conflict between generations. In both novels, Monica Ali and Amulya Malladi portray the fact that first  generation immigrants tend to retain their cultural values while the second generation are willing to exchange their roots for greater freedom. In Serving Crazy with Curry, Saroj Venturi wishes to instil Indian values within her children when she says, â€Å"Why couldn’t she learn to cook like all good Indian girls?† (Malladi, 19). She feels that her children do not know enough about their country of origin, and wishes to incorporate some Indian traditions into her daughters’ western lives so that they do not stray away from their Indian culture. Chanu from Brick Lane, faces a similar situation to Saroj as he also tries to incorporate Bengali culture into his daughters. Chanu uses language to discourage his daughters from becoming too westernized: â€Å"[†¦]that I am going to tie her up and cut her tongue. Tell the Memsahib that when I have skinned her [Shahana] alive she will not be looking so pleased with herself† (Ali, 162). Chanu refers to his daughter as a Memsahib which is a title used in colonial India as a form of respectful address for a prestigious woman. Chanu addresses his daughter, Shahana as a memsahib due to her behaviour such as acting snobbish and stubborn like a prestigious woman; qualities that he finds to be developed as a result of westernization. Chanu uses words such as â€Å"cut† and â€Å"skinned† to threaten his daughter so that she would behave. In contrast to the first generation, the second generation exchanges their cultural values for more freedom. In Serving Crazy with Curry, Devi Venturi gets a taste of her own freedoms in the area of dating: â€Å"And each time she [Saroj] snooped, she expected to find an unsuitable man lying naked in Devi’s bedroom, or worse, naked women† (Malladi, 19). The fact that Devi’s mother has to snoop around to find a naked man or women in Devi’s room shows her limits when it comes to controlling her daugh ters life and dating lifestyle. As well as the word â€Å"naked† represents Devi’s growing freedoms that she later uncover after certain stages she comes across within this western culture. From Brick Lane, Shahana has the newfound freedom of wearing what she wants. Having the freedom of choice in clothing Shahana chose to wear a skirt, which is an article of clothing that exposes the legs. When Shahana walks past a group of boys they turn around â€Å"She looked at them and cocked her head. Nazeen wished that Shahana had her trousers on† (Ali, 217). Choosing an article that exposes body parts strongly goes against the typical Bengali culture which proves that her choice in clothing is affected by the western society  that she lives in. Both authors use characters to inform that the first generation attempts to protect their cultural values while the second generation lets go of it, demonstrating their clashing ways of adjusting to changes due to immigration. Many people make the decision to leave their country of origin and immigrate to a foreign land due to the idea of finding success and living a better life. First generation immigrants have an eagerness to acquire success and the second generation has a lack of commitment. In Brick Lane, Chanu graduated with a degree in English literature and moves to London because he finds it to be the key to success. Chanu’s determination is shown when he says â€Å"Now I have to get the promotion† (Ali,36). The term promotion means to move to a higher, more important position than previously and Chanu’s desire to move onto the next level symbolizes his desire to be successful. Avi Venturi from Serving Crazy with Curry, deals with a similar situation as he learns that the military was not the right path for him when he says â€Å"This is all I am left with. The army gave me this and what else? No medal, no nothing.† (Malladi, 85). Avi feels he must obtain achievement, therefore he travels to San Francisco, when he was offered a job there, which leads him to be where he is now, a successful business man. Avi had the determination to be successful and fulfill his ambitions, unlike the second generation who lack this trait. The beginning of Serving Crazy with curry demonstrates Devi Venturi’s character as a failure: After Devi was laid off (yet again) a week ago, it started to dawn on her that she was not going to be able to change her life. Everything she ever wanted had become elusive and the decision to end her life, she realized, was not only a good decision, but her only option. (Malladi, 1) This quote in particular shows Devi’s lack of determination and commitment in achieving her goals to complete tasks and achieve what they want. In the first sentence, Malladi describes Devi’s failure being quite continuous when she states â€Å"yet again†. When she states that â€Å"she was not going to be able to change her life† (Malladi, 1) this displays Devi’s lack of commitment and  determination in accomplishing her goals because once she fails, she no longer has hope and decides that her fate will never change thus cancelling out any possibilities for improvement. The idea of not improving and changing what she thinks could be her fate leads Devi to think that the only choice she has is to end her life, which shows her lack of enthusiasm and determination to fulfill her ambitions and desires. Both novels portray the effect that immigration has on the identities of first and second generations immigrants. Authors, Monica Ali and Amulya Malladi use language to highlight the contrasting traits of characters and focus on the non-parallel connections between the first and second generation immigrants. When it comes to immigration diversity in the external environment contributes to the complex relationship between the two generations.

buy custom The Countrywide Financial Corporation essay

buy custom The Countrywide Financial Corporation essay The Countrywide Financial Corporation was founded in 1969 by Angelo Mozilo and David Loeb. Angelo Mozilo was the founder and chairman of the corporation. He is also thought to be behind the collapse of the company. In 1969, David Loeb founded the Countrywide in New York. Its intention was to create a nationwide lending firm specializing in mortgage loans. The company proceeded to open retail branches in California and by 1980 they had 40 branches in eight states. The company grew in leaps and bounds and saw it attain a loan origination of 2.2 million totaling to $408 million with 661 branches spread in 48 states. In the year 2008, the company was acquired by Bank of America for $4 billion. Its market value rose to $24 billion in 2006, but in 2007 it rapidly fell, when it emerged that the countrywide mortgages that had been during housing boom were overly risky and was faced with the risk of default. The company set pace on reforms that protected lenders from risks related to loan default. It also led to protection of borrowers with low income from exorbitant interest rates. Was the U.S. federal governments in 1932 intervention in the market for home ownership desirable? How did the creation of Fannie Mae in 1938, Ginnie Mae in 1968, and Freddie Mac in 1970 expand homeownership and shape lending practices at banks and other mortgage lending ?rms? Basing on the achievements realized it is clear that the intervention by the U.S government in the market was desirable. The creation of the Federal Home Loan Bank, for example, gave a provision on which lending to financial institutions is short-term prompting the desire for additional funds for home mortgages. The 1934 National Housing Act promoted homeownership. This is because it provided a system of insuring loans that protected default by borrowers. The creation of Fannie Mae facilitated secondary markets for mortgages. This was issued through guidelines of FHA program. This gave an opportunity to lenders who operated privately. This enabled private lenders to come up with a large count of FHA loans. Furthermore, due to the reason that loans could be sold in the secondary market. Another reason is that the borrower did not have to hold the loan until the loan term elapses. It also meant that another new loan could be created every other time the lender sold enormous loan bundles to secondary market inventors. Fannie Mae also bought mortgages that conventionally conformed to mortgages from the lenders. The reconstituting of Fannie Mae to trade publicly as a government sponsored enterprise saw its activities wiped out from the budget of the U.S federal government and moved its government insured portfolio, FHA mortgages, to corporation, which the government kept under total control. This was later known as Ginnie Mae. However, it remained in custody of Fannie Maes balance sheet. Th chartering of Freddie Mac facilitated the pooling of conforming loans, and came up with securities that were backed by mortgages (MBSs). These were sold as pooled shares on loan to the investors. The yield on interest for these security agencies lay between the U.S Treasury and AAA corporate. This obligation reflected low security risk. The MBSs development widened the secondary market for loans meant to be mortgaged. The reason being that the investors could buy portfolio of loan share other than buy intact portfolio loan. The Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac value to capital share in the market was equivalent to the MBSs obligations and debt guarantee of implicit government of the U.S. It is also important to note that, the Federal Charter demanded that they aid the residential mortgages through the secondary markets. It also obligated them to fund families whose incomes were low or moderate. They were also required to consider mortgage funding geographic distribution. This entailed finance on mortgage for geographic sectors that seemed undeserved. Another benefit that comes along with package of MBSs is that its mandate is to appraise the credit history of the borrower, and guidelines to establish the financial capability of the borrower in meeting the obligations of debt. This is important in establishing the probability of the borrower defaulting. This facilitated the growth of market of mortgage. Also the bolstering of loan program by the Veterans Administration led to zero down payment and reduced interest rates on loans. The housing burst of bubble in the year 2007, when the economy of the United Sates started weakening with the decline in demand for housing caused prices on homes to plummet. The appreciation in prices of homes almost coming to an end saw most of their properties go down. The equity position that was negative led to mortgage balance, which in turn led to fair market value of most of properties. The intervention, therefore, was desirable. This is because most of the issues that affected lending were deliberated on. It led to streamlining of mortgage business. It went along way in ensuring that the lenders were protected from risk that may arise. The borrowers too were not left behind as this ensured that no borrower was discriminated against based on race or geographical locations. The rate on interest towards the borrowers was also fully addressed by the enactment. Why did the U.S. Congress enact the Community Reinvestment Act, the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act, the Depository Institution Deregulation and Monetary Control Act, and the Housing and Community Development Act? Was this legislation effective in expanding homeownership? Did the governments promotion of subprime mortgages and high loan-to-value (LTV) subprime mortgages create additional risks for lenders and the holders of mortgage backed securities (MBSs) or collateralized debt obligations (CDOs)? In order to answer why the U.S Congress enacted the Community Reinvestment Act, it is important to note the reason for enactment. Sources indicates that the CRA and HMDA were enacted after the social activists group started pointing to the statistics that showed that FHA and lenders were involved in the systematic discrimination that was of race. This was directed to minority consumers who leaved in low income neighborhood. This practice was termed as redlining. The activist mobilized the Carter administration and Congress of the United States to come up with this enactment to curb this social injustice in lending and housing. The depository Institution Deregulation and monetary control addressed the concern on lenders who showed the sign of low income redlining of neighborhoods from their disclosures. However, the lenders defended this evil by pointing to the risks associated with loans made to low income earners, employment histories that were not stable, inadequate funds to enable them to make a down payment, or high debt to income levels. The acts, therefore, were enacted to address the concern by wiping out caps on interest rate and giving the lenders the opportunity to highly charge, or subprime rates to borrowers of higher risk. The Housing and Community development act of 1981 set goals for lenders borrowers of low income and gave an opportunity to FHA borrowers with credit records that are not perfect to access loans on mortgage with 90 to 95 percent LTVs. In the year 1995, the administration of Clinton increased the LTV subprime loans causing the CRA to increase home ownership for the Americans who in one way or another were not able to acquire mortgage loans through the conventional criteria of underwriting. The subprime mortgage created an additional risk to the lender. The reason being that-: the lender did not need the borrower to demonstrate how capable he is to repay the loan. The lender granted the borrower with low credit score, a high debt to income level, or a small down payment. The increased MBSs appetite on Wall Street, the brokers of mortgage expanded their net sales to entail requirements on documentation that was relaxed and limited or impaired the history on credit. This lending technique ensured that many borrowers accessed the loan. However, this could impact negatively on the lender incase the borrower defaulted in repaying. It is also important to know that the crisis of S L facilitated mortgage business unbundling. The origination of mortgage and servicing of loans led to a split. It led to pushing of most originations of mortgages into secondary markets as debt which is collateralized known as Collateralized Debt Obligations (CDOs). The ability of originators of mortgage to sell mortgages that were newly recorded as MBSs led to an increase of mortgage originators. The less strict nature of lending poses a risk on the side of the lender incase of default by the borrower. Buy custom The Countrywide Financial Corporation essay

How Presidents Have Used Their Power To Pardon

How Presidents Have Used Their Power To Pardon The President derives the power of pardon from Article II, Section 2 of the U.S. Constitution, which gives the president power to grant reprieves and pardons for offenses against the United States, except in cases of impeachment. A reprieve reduces the severity of a punishment, but the person remains guilty. A pardon removes both punishment and guilt, which is why pardons are more likely to be controversial. The process for obtaining a pardons begins with an application to the Department of Justice Office of the Pardon Attorney. The DOJ consults with other lawyers and judges for recommendations; the FBI runs a check on the applicant. After winnowing the applicants, the DOJ provides a list of recommendations to the office of the White House Counsel. Historical Pardons Historically, Presidents used the power to pardon to heal rifts in the national psyche. As President Bush said on 24 December 1982, When earlier wars have ended, Presidents have historically used their power to pardon to put bitterness behind us and look to the future. For example, George Washington pardoned leaders of the Whiskey Rebellion; James Madison pardoned Lafittes pirates after the War of 1812; Andrew Johnson pardoned Confederate soldiers after the Civil War; Harry Truman pardoned those who violated World War II Selective Service laws; and Jimmy Carter pardoned Vietnam War draft dodgers. The modern-day pardon, however, has taken a decidedly more political turn. And it may help its recipient find a job and regain the right to vote. Nixon In modern history, the most controversial pardon is probably the 1974 pardon of former President Richard Nixon, issued by President Gerald Ford. Ford assumed the presidency on 9 August 1974, the day after President Nixon resigned over Watergate, pending impeachment. Ford pardoned Nixon on 8 September 1974. Although Carter made a campaign issue of the Nixon pardon, in retrospect Fords action was brave (it was political suicide) and helped a divided nation begin to heal. Iran-Contra On 24 December 1992, President George Bush pardoned six Reagan administration officials involved in the Iran-Contra Affair: Elliott Abrams, Duane R. Clarridge, Alan Fiers, Clair George, National Security Adviser Robert C. Bud McFarlane and Secretary of Defense Caspar W. Weinberger. He compared their actions to those pardoned by Madison, Johnson, Truman and Carter: In many cases, the offenses pardoned by these Presidents were at least as serious as those I am pardoning today. Independent Counsel Lawrence E. Walsh was appointed in December 1986 to investigate the Iran/Contra affair; subsequently, Walsh brought charges against 14 people. Eleven were convicted; two convictions were overturned on appeal. Two were pardoned before trial, and one case was dismissed when the Bush Administration declined to declassify information necessary for trial.President Bush pardoned six Iran/Contra participants on 24 December 1992. Post-Trial Pardons Elliott Abrams   Pleaded guilty October 7, 1991, to two misdemeanor charges of withholding information from Congress about secret government efforts to support the Nicaraguan contra rebels during a ban on such aid. He was sentenced on November 15, 1991 to two years probation and 100 hours community service. The second President Bush appointed Abrams as Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director on the National Security Council for Near East and North African Affairs. Alan D. Fiers, Jr.   Pleaded guilty July 9, 1991, to two misdemeanor counts of withholding information from Congress about secret efforts to aid the Nicaraguan contras. He was sentenced on January 31, 1992 to one year probation and 100 hours community service. Pardoned. Clair E. George   Indicted September 6, 1991, on 10 counts of perjury, false statements and obstruction in connection with congressional and Grand Jury investigations. Georges trial on nine counts ended in a mistrial on August 26, 1992. Following a second trial on seven counts, George was found guilty December 9, 1992, of two felony charges of false statements and perjury before Congress. His sentencing hearing was February 18, 1993. Pardoned before sentencing occurred. Robert C. McFarlane   Pleaded guilty March 11, 1988, to four misdemeanor counts of withholding information from Congress. He was sentenced on March 3, 1989, to two years probation, $20,000 in fines and 200 hours community service. Pardoned. Pre-trial Pardons Duane R. Clarridge   Indicted November 26, 1991, on seven counts of perjury and false statements about a secret shipment of U.S. HAWK missiles to Iran. The maximum penalty for each count was five years in prison and $250,000 in fines. Trial date set for March 15, 1993. Pardoned. Caspar W. Weinberger   Indicted June 16, 1992, on five counts of obstruction, perjury and false statements in connection with congressional and Independent Counsel investigations of Iran/ contra. On September 29, the obstruction count was dismissed. On October 30, a second indictment was issued, charging one false statement count. The second indictment was dismissed December 11, leaving four counts remaining. The maximum penalty for each count was five years in prison and $250,000 in fines. Trial date set for January 5, 1993, trial date. Pardoned. Dismissal Joseph F. Fernandez   Indicted June 20, 1988 on five counts of conspiracy to defraud the United States, obstructing the inquiry of the Tower Commission and making false statements to government agencies. The case was dismissed in the District of Columbia for venue reasons on the motion of Independent Counsel. A four-count indictment was issued in the Eastern District of Virginia on April 24, 1989. The four-count case was dismissed November 24, 1989, after Attorney General Richard Thornburgh blocked the disclosure of classified information ruled relevant to the defense. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit in Richmond, Va., on September 6, 1990 upheld Judge Hiltons rulings under the Classified Information Procedures Act (CIPA). On October 12, 1990, the Attorney General filed a final declaration that he would not disclose the classified information. From the  Walsh Iran/Contra Report. In addition, Bush pardoned Edwin Cox Jr., whose family contributed nearly $200,000 to the Bush familys campaigns and to Republican campaign committees from 1980 to 2000, according to documents obtained by  CNN. Cox pleaded guilty to bank fraud in 1988, served six months in prison and paid $250,000 in fines. In addition, his father (Cox, Sr.) is a Bush Presidential Library trustee who contributed between $100,000 and $250,000 to the Bush Presidential Library. A complete  list of Bushs pardons  (1989-1992) President Clintons Pardons President Clintons most controversial pardon was of billionaire financier Marc Rich. His connection with the political and business elite of both parties demonstrates that the differences among those in power are less distinct than the differences between those in power and those out of power. For  example: After hiring prominent Republican lawyers during the Reagan and Bush administrations- Leonard Garment, former Nixon White House counsel, William Bradford Reynolds, once an official of the Reagan Justice Department, and Lewis Libby, now chief of staff to Vice President Richard Cheney- Rich hired a top Democratic lawyer, Jack Quinn, to give him direct access to Clinton. Quinn, former White House counsel, runs his law practice with Ed Gillespie, a key Bush adviser and former head of the GOP. In addition, Clinton pardoned Susan McDougal (Whitewater), former Housing Secretary Henry Cisneros (lied to FBI investigators about payments to his mistress) and  ex-CIA chief  John Deutch (forced out at the CIA when he contradicted White House claims that U.S. missile strikes on Iraq were effective).Review the  list of Clintons pardons  (1993-2000) President Bushs Pardons As the end of President Bushs term drew near, he had pardoned about half as many people as his prior two-term predecessors, Clinton and Ronald Reagan. Bush has issued pardons for many petty crimes committed decades in the past, ranging from possessing marijuana to moonshining. Just before Thanksgiving 2008,  President Bush pardoned 14 and commuted the sentence  of another two. This brought his pardon total to 171 and commutations total to eight. In one of the most high profile cases of his Administration, that of Scooter Libby, President Bush did not grant a pardon. He did, however, commute Libbys sentence. Another high-profile commuted sentences was that of  hip-hop musician John Forte, who was convicted in 2001 on drug smuggling charges. In Texas. Just  before Christmas, Bush pardoned Isaac Toussie who pleaded guilty in 2001 to using false documents to have mortgages insured by the Department of Housing and Urban Development, and in 2002 to mail fraud, admitting that he had persuaded officials in Suffolk County to overpay for land. Bush rescinded the pardon the next day after press reports revealed that his father, Robert Toussie, recently donated $30,800 to Republicans. Bush let  stand a pardon  issued for Alan Maiss, who had contributed $1,500 to the presidents 2004 re-election campaign; he served one year of probation. In 1995, Maiss failed to report a fellow gaming executives alleged ties to organized crime. Bush had  pardoned 19  and provided clemency for one. See a  list of pardons  and  commutations  granted by President George W. Bush.

Calculate MD5 Hashing for a File or String Using Delphi

Calculate MD5 Hashing for a File or String Using Delphi The MD5 Message-Digest Algorithm is a cryptographic hash function. MD5 is commonly used to check the integrity of files, like to make sure that a file has been unaltered. One example of this is when downloading a program online. If the software distributor gives out the MD5 hash of the file, you can produce the hash using Delphi and then compare the two values to make sure theyre the same. If theyre different, it means the file you downloaded is not the one you requested from the website, and therefore may be malicious. An MD5 hash value is 128-bits long but is typically read in its 32 digit hexadecimal  value. Finding the MD5 Hash Using Delphi Using Delphi, you can easily create a function to calculate the MD5 hash for any given file. All you need is included in the two units IdHashMessageDigest and idHash,  both of which are a part of  Indy. Heres the source code: uses IdHashMessageDigest, idHash; //returns MD5 has for a file function MD5(const fileName : string) : string; var   Ã‚  idmd5 : TIdHashMessageDigest5;   Ã‚  fs : TFileStream;   Ã‚  hash : T4x4LongWordRecord; begin   Ã‚  idmd5 : TIdHashMessageDigest5.Create;   Ã‚  fs : TFileStream.Create(fileName, fmOpenRead OR fmShareDenyWrite) ;   Ã‚  try   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  result : idmd5.AsHex(idmd5.HashValue(fs)) ;   Ã‚  finally   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  fs.Free;   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  idmd5.Free;   Ã‚  end; end; Other Ways to Generate the MD5 Checksum Apart from using Delphi are other ways you can find the MD5 checksum of a file. One method is to use Microsoft File Checksum Integrity Verifier. Its a free program that can be used only on the Windows OS. MD5 Hash Generator is a website that does something similar, but instead of producing the MD5 checksum of a file, it does so from any string of letters, symbols, or numbers that you put in the input box.

Multicultaralism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Multicultaralism - Essay Example The various literary works analyzed in the later sections of this essay discusses the socio-political concept of multiculturalism as described by Samuel Selvon in The Lonely Londoners, and Hanif Kureishi in The Rainbow Sign and The Beautiful Launderette. This substantiates the fact that individuals from multicultural backgrounds, including the author himself, desperately crave for secure roots that secures them a place, a notion or a cultural identity of their own. The author’s narratives which take him back to a country of his origin is an attempt to forge a relationship with a land although alien to him secures him a root of his cultural origins thus giving him a sense of belonging and identity which is somehow lost in the multicultural milieu of his migrant country. The book ‘The Lonely Londoners’ by Sam Selvon, is based on the lives and journey of colored immigrants who migrated to the British Isles from West Indies in search of wealth and prosperity. It goes on to describe how the various characters in the story were exposed to racist remarks and discriminatory behavior at the hands of the locals. The story is told in creolized English to give an immigrant flavor to it. The apparent references to the color of these migrants who belong to a host of countries including Jamaica, Nigeria, and Trinidad suggest the discrimination of people belonging alien origins whereby the ‘blacks’ were often paid lower wages on account of their color – an obvious form of racial discrimination.... a relationship with a land although alien to him, secures him a root of his cultural origins thus giving him a sense of belonging and identity which is somehow lost in the multicultural milieu of his migrant country. The Lonely Londoners The book 'The Lonely Londoners' by Sam Selvon, is based on the lives and journey of colored immigrants who migrated to British Isles from West Indies in search of wealth and prosperity. It goes on to describe how the various characters in the story were exposed to racist remarks and discriminatory behavior at the hands of the locals. The story is told in creolised English to give an immigrant flavor to it. The apparent references to the color of these migrants who belong to a host of countries including Jamaica, Nigeria and Trinidad suggest the discrimination of people belonging alien origins whereby the 'blacks' were often paid lower wages on account of their color - an obvious form of racial discrimination. This issue is addressed by one of the characters Gallahad who has been looking for employment in the land and voices his beliefs: "Why the hell you can't be blue, or red or green, if you can't be white' You know is you that cause a lot of misery in the world. Is not me, you know, is you! I ain't do anything to infuriate the people and them, is you! Look at you, you so black and innocent, and this time you causing misery all over the world (Elizabeth, 2002, Pp.156)" The Rainbow Sign In the essay, The Rainbow Sign, the author Hanif Kureishi, describes the pain of a migrant and his view of the world which is blurred, confused and hybrid, and, rarely pure and complete. It describes the loss of being detached from one's roots and the feeling of being tucked away in an alien land but at the same time describing the joys of living

Alcan Paper Five Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Alcan Paper Five - Essay Example The enterprise has operating facilities across 61 countries with a work force of about 68,000 employees (Dube, Bernier, & Roy, 2009). The organization takes the leading position in production of raw materials, fabricated products and primary metals. The enterprise is involved in creating and selling of a variety of products, which include bauxite, automobile iron, sheet ingot, aluminum recycling services, forging stock (INDUSTRY CANADA, 2005). This paper explores a report of Alcan based on the case studies. The report discusses the application of Information Technology within the Alcan organization and it is a summary of issues addressed in part 1 to part four all of which focused on the Alcan. It addresses a range of issues that concerns Alcan Organization. The issues of concern include the General Systems, Theory and Social-Technical Theory, Organizational Success, Failures and Consequences, Communication Policies, STS Practices, and application of theories within the Organization, the Alcan’s organization and operating technology, technological contributions to the organization, dominant Information Technology strategies and practices, technological barriers or success, the Alcan’s business continuity plan, the company’s organization and operating technology, technological contributions to the organization, dominant Information Technology strategies and practices, technological barriers disaster recovery plan, and business continuity plan. Organization Environment. Alcan Organization has operating facilities across 61 countries with a work force of about 68,000 employees. It has four principal business groups which are: Bauxite and Alumina, Primary Metal, packaging and the engineered products. The four business groups are the main revenue contributors for the organization (Dube, Bernier, & Roy, 2009). The company sells a variety of products, which include bauxite, automobile iron, sheet ingot, aluminium recycling services, forging stock. It is extremely vertically integrated having eight mines and deposits, a transport network with ports and facilities, seven alumina plants, 26 aluminium smelters, 17 laminated products plants, 12 electric power plants, seven alumina refineries, 180 packaging materials plants and 49 engineered products plants (Dube, Bernier, & Roy, 2009). Organizational Structure. The senior management in Alcan Company consists of a CIO and four associates (Dube, Bernier, & Roy, 2009). These associates include: Strategic IT-Program director, Chief information-security- officer director, performance-management director, and the Enterprise Architectural director. Next to these are two services that are shared. One service is for the application, and the next is for infrastructure. In the centre of the ladder, there are different business groups of Information Technology directors. Each business group is headed by an IT director referred to as VP (Dube, Bernier, & Roy, 2009). Challenges Faced by Alcan Organization. Alcan organization is faced with various environmental, economical, social as well as technological challenges. The environmental challenges facing Alcan include sustainable raw material development, industrial waste, air emissions, and water. The company overcomes this challenge by developing a clean manufacturing process and designing a method of recycling the waste products (Foster, 2005). Economic Challenges in Alcan include high costs due to funds misappropriation in the company, ineffective and inefficiency business

Research paper - stdent Absences Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Research paper - stdent Absences - Essay Example Health related problems for children at school have always been a relevant social issue and the steps to reduce the impact are not new. The use of the nursing profession in school environments to reduce the impact of health related problems goes back by more than a hundred years. The focus of such activity was to reduce the spread of communicable diseases and diseases that have their origin in poor hygiene. The focus of activities and programs related to reducing health related problems of children at school remains the same even today (Wolfe & Selekman, 2002). Frequently encountered causes of health problems related to school absence by students find their origins in gastrointestinal and respiratory infections (Sandora, Shih & Goldman, 2008). According to Moonie et al 2008, absenteeism from school results in lower grades for the students and reduced psychological, social and educational interaction for these students. These factors cause schools to be alert to emerging health problems that could cause children to keep away from classes and to take steps to evaluate any such evolving causes and initiate action to remove the source or reduce its impact (Moonie et al, 2008). The band master of Truman Middle School in his report to the Principal has observed that on Wednesday, May 20, one-third of the students who were supposed to attend the band class did not attend the class. The Principal is reminded of an earlier occasion, when students absented themselves from school activities due to an outbreak of flu and requests assistance in determining whether a heath related problem exists and the possible measures to be taken to address it (Messages). Truman Middle School does have a health problem that may be either an outbreak of viral infection or from gastrointestinal infection that originates from the poor food hygiene practices at the food

Challenges in Hiring Talent Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Challenges in Hiring Talent - Research Paper Example Prince (25), states that there has been a 10 % decline in the average quality of a worker since 2004. This has prompted companies to redouble efforts aimed at hiring the best candidates for the job at whatever cost. Between 1946 and 1964, America experienced massive economic growth that triggered the emergence of more companies and the increase in profitability of businesses in the country (Yates 47). During this time, a new breed of talented and driven managers, entrepreneurs and personnel also emerged, supported by the emergence of ‘baby boomers’ that propagated economic growth and increase in population. The last decade has seen the retirement of a large percentage of these individuals, and a large vacuum has been left that may not be filled as soon as is expected. Businesses have therefore found it paramount to ‘fish’ for the best and most qualified people by employing whatever means necessary to make them a part of their vision. Apart from a decline in the quality of workers available and the shrinking of the pool from which companies used to draw their workers, there has been a great shift in the type of individuals required in the workplace. Between 1946 and 1964, there was a massive increase in manufacturing, spurred by an increase in demand for industrial products and goods (Gilmore 34). A lot of emphasis was therefore laced on the need for workers who could support the manufacturing process, and this called for individuals who mainly had to follow procedures and carry out instructions as required. Little reasoning and judgment was required in these types of jobs that can also be referred to as transactional or transformational. A change in needs, priorities and focus has left companies with no option but to scout for intelligent and clear-thinking people who can make decisions on their own and come up with solutions to problems without relying on their seniors. These types of workers are also good team players who are capable of working with other employees for the benefit of the company (Noe 76). This can be attributed to the emergence of a new type of jobs that are classified under the tacit category, in which intellectual capability and contribution is preferred over physical labor. Question 2: Incentives (apart from salary) that a Company may use to Encourage a Prospective Employee to Accept a Job Offer With the changes taking place in the workplace, companies appreciate the fact that better or higher remuneration is no longer sufficient when looking to hire employees. Other factors have now been found to play a huge role in the ability of a company to not only hire but also retain the best workers (Hunt 59). These factors include opportunities for growth, good working conditions, good moral and ethical values and an appreciation of current and prospective employees. Employees need to know that they can grow in a company and become better at what they do. Nobody wants to work for 10 years in the sam e position when there are other avenues for growth elsewhere. For instance, I may be paid $100,000 a year to head the sales and marketing department in a company, but I may not be willing to remain in the same position (especially if I deserve to be promoted). If a sales representative rises to be my deputy and I am still holding the same position I have had for the last 10 years then I am not growing on my job. The salary may be attractive but growth is more important. When hiring

Describing resolution of a recent business conflict Case Study

Describing resolution of a recent business conflict - Case Study Example Each party during the resolution process will defend its interest with respect to the other one. Since there are different styles of behavior which help the management of a certain organization to handle the conflict, it is vital for important to establish the most suitable method depending upon the situation. Among such methods, there are the domination, the compromise, integration, the voidance and suppression (Lee, 2008). Once an information about the conflict emerges within the working environment, the management of the certain organization involves the employees to the collaborative actions in order to solve the problem. Thus, the integration method of handling the conflict is utilizing. Such approach gives every member of the conflict an access to the other person’s perceptions and goals, enabling them to find the appropriate solution. The dominating style, on the contrary, highlights high concern of one’s self interests rather than concern for the other, thus forces behavior to in one’s position. However, such style of handling the conflict is associated with the low levels of effectiveness and appropriateness, maximizing he importance of a certain individual or a group’s needs at the expense of others. Whether the conflict situation occurred, but an issue is trivial and the effect of the solving process outweighs the resolution outcome, the management avoids dealing w ith the conflict situation, using at the same time the avoiding style. In many cases, conflicts between the management and employees end with the coming to the common decision about the problem that occurred. Thus, both parties of the conflict seek for the middle- ground position appropriate for all. In the situation when conflicting parties are mutually exclusive, they are using the compromising style of handling the conflict (The Five Steps to Conflict Resolution, 2014). The recent business conflict

Arabic Culture Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Arabic Culture - Essay Example he gender division of roles, responsibilities and resources within the household play an important role in shaping what men and women are able to do beyond the household. Islamic texts and traditions lie at the heart of Arab cultural conventions. Critics have seized upon the way that the exact interpretation of religious doctrines varies from state to state, and stress that it is important to reflect on who is making the rules for gender roles and activities, namely men, and how little real choice women have. The definition of what is a matter of culture and religion, and what is a matter of human rights is contentious. Handrahan, for example, compares the human rights offences which occurred in apartheid South Africa with the treatment of women in Arabian culture and describes the Arabian situation as â€Å"gender apartheid† (Handrahan 9) The absence of equal voting rights for women is quite obviously matter of serious discrimination and it attracts condemnation from critics both inside and outside Arabia. A woman’s identity in Arabian culture and society is constructed, in the very first place, on the basis of men’s superiority. Such discriminated gender growth is justified on both cultural and religious basis. In a rigidly religious society, men’s superiority and women’s dependency on men are ratified by the following verse of the Holy Quran: â€Å"Men are the protectors and maintainers of women, because Allah has given the one more (strength) than the other, and because they support them from their means. Therefore the righteous women are devoutly obedient, and guard in (the husbands) absence what Allah would have them guard† (Quran  4:34). Indeed this verse is one of many from the Holy Quran that the clerics of the society manipulate to enact rules, regulations and laws that slaughter women’s equality to men. Some of these rules and regulations are male guardianships, Namus, Purdah, Dress codes, sexual segregation, etc. One of the common aftermaths

Challenges in Hiring Talent Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Challenges in Hiring Talent - Research Paper Example Prince (25), states that there has been a 10 % decline in the average quality of a worker since 2004. This has prompted companies to redouble efforts aimed at hiring the best candidates for the job at whatever cost. Between 1946 and 1964, America experienced massive economic growth that triggered the emergence of more companies and the increase in profitability of businesses in the country (Yates 47). During this time, a new breed of talented and driven managers, entrepreneurs and personnel also emerged, supported by the emergence of ‘baby boomers’ that propagated economic growth and increase in population. The last decade has seen the retirement of a large percentage of these individuals, and a large vacuum has been left that may not be filled as soon as is expected. Businesses have therefore found it paramount to ‘fish’ for the best and most qualified people by employing whatever means necessary to make them a part of their vision. Apart from a decline in the quality of workers available and the shrinking of the pool from which companies used to draw their workers, there has been a great shift in the type of individuals required in the workplace. Between 1946 and 1964, there was a massive increase in manufacturing, spurred by an increase in demand for industrial products and goods (Gilmore 34). A lot of emphasis was therefore laced on the need for workers who could support the manufacturing process, and this called for individuals who mainly had to follow procedures and carry out instructions as required. Little reasoning and judgment was required in these types of jobs that can also be referred to as transactional or transformational. A change in needs, priorities and focus has left companies with no option but to scout for intelligent and clear-thinking people who can make decisions on their own and come up with solutions to problems without relying on their seniors. These types of workers are also good team players who are capable of working with other employees for the benefit of the company (Noe 76). This can be attributed to the emergence of a new type of jobs that are classified under the tacit category, in which intellectual capability and contribution is preferred over physical labor. Question 2: Incentives (apart from salary) that a Company may use to Encourage a Prospective Employee to Accept a Job Offer With the changes taking place in the workplace, companies appreciate the fact that better or higher remuneration is no longer sufficient when looking to hire employees. Other factors have now been found to play a huge role in the ability of a company to not only hire but also retain the best workers (Hunt 59). These factors include opportunities for growth, good working conditions, good moral and ethical values and an appreciation of current and prospective employees. Employees need to know that they can grow in a company and become better at what they do. Nobody wants to work for 10 years in the sam e position when there are other avenues for growth elsewhere. For instance, I may be paid $100,000 a year to head the sales and marketing department in a company, but I may not be willing to remain in the same position (especially if I deserve to be promoted). If a sales representative rises to be my deputy and I am still holding the same position I have had for the last 10 years then I am not growing on my job. The salary may be attractive but growth is more important. When hiring

Arabic Culture Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Arabic Culture - Essay Example he gender division of roles, responsibilities and resources within the household play an important role in shaping what men and women are able to do beyond the household. Islamic texts and traditions lie at the heart of Arab cultural conventions. Critics have seized upon the way that the exact interpretation of religious doctrines varies from state to state, and stress that it is important to reflect on who is making the rules for gender roles and activities, namely men, and how little real choice women have. The definition of what is a matter of culture and religion, and what is a matter of human rights is contentious. Handrahan, for example, compares the human rights offences which occurred in apartheid South Africa with the treatment of women in Arabian culture and describes the Arabian situation as â€Å"gender apartheid† (Handrahan 9) The absence of equal voting rights for women is quite obviously matter of serious discrimination and it attracts condemnation from critics both inside and outside Arabia. A woman’s identity in Arabian culture and society is constructed, in the very first place, on the basis of men’s superiority. Such discriminated gender growth is justified on both cultural and religious basis. In a rigidly religious society, men’s superiority and women’s dependency on men are ratified by the following verse of the Holy Quran: â€Å"Men are the protectors and maintainers of women, because Allah has given the one more (strength) than the other, and because they support them from their means. Therefore the righteous women are devoutly obedient, and guard in (the husbands) absence what Allah would have them guard† (Quran  4:34). Indeed this verse is one of many from the Holy Quran that the clerics of the society manipulate to enact rules, regulations and laws that slaughter women’s equality to men. Some of these rules and regulations are male guardianships, Namus, Purdah, Dress codes, sexual segregation, etc. One of the common aftermaths

Microsoft- tablet PC Essay Example for Free

Microsoft- tablet PC Essay 1)Who should Microsoft have targeted at the launch of the Tablet PC why? Before discussing who Microsoft should have targeted, we have to look at the strengths and weaknesses of the product. The success of any strategy depends on being able leverage the most of the strengths and rely less on the weaknesses. The strengths of Microsoft were its brand, distribution channel, existing enterprise user base and large resources. The risks involved those related to new product development, price and changing user behavior. The exhibit tells us that the large and medium business accounted for the most portable PCs in terms of volume and revenue. Due to the enterprise refresh cycles, a third of the PCs are replaced every year. Now let’s take a look at the options Microsoft had as target initial customers. They could target first time PC buyers, enterprise IT managers, students, early tech adopters or existing Windows customers. Looking at the strengths and weaknesses listed above it is easy to eliminate a few of the choices provided. Microsoft should have targeted the enterprise user base. Enterprise devices are much less sensitive to price as regular customers and have a higher willingness to pay. Thus the high price tag might not have been a difficult barrier if the product delivered value. They demand compatibility with existing enterprise frameworks. Given Microsoft’s dominance in enterprise software, they could easily ensure that the tablet PC has software that was compatible with Microsoft’s existing enterprise software. The iPad was very geared towards the consumer segment. Thus there was a niche in the enterprise tablet space that Microsoft should have exploited. This would have also helped in terms of narrowing down the focus on a few key applications, distributors and use cases. Taking a leaf out of Blackberry’s book they could have made enterprise security as one of their key differentiators especially given the wide adoption of outlook email in the enterprise. 2) What are the pros cons of Microsoft’s strategy vs. Apple’s (Microsoft being dependent on hardware manufacturers to market the Tablet PC, vs. Apple’s control of both the hardware and software?) This is essentially a question on the merits and demerits of a horizontal strategy vs a vertical strategy. The Microsoft strategy is a horizontal strategy. It involves creating a product that can deliver value up and down the value chain by allowing manufacturers innovate above and below it. This strategy can scale quickly and demands fewer resources from an individual firm to create an ecosystem. This also allows for wide range of innovations from a variety of players along the value chain. It is also a case of imperfect competition given that at each level of the value chain different levels of competition exist that promote greater product differentiation on multiple levels. The demerits of this strategy is lack of focus and control. Since the product is extensible and involves many players, there is always a risk of not being able to control what the end product looks like and the features it should prioritize on.The vertical strategy by Apple allows for control on the experience, and look and feel of the product. This enables Apple to focus and do a few things really well and better position the brand. By vertically integrating, Apple is also able to extract multiple premiums at different levels of the value chain. This can lead to higher profit margins. However, the downside of this strategy is that it cannot scale quickly, requires high upfront fixed costs and doesn’t offer the wide breath of product differentiation or features.

Movie Analysis Of The Film Legion

Movie Analysis Of The Film Legion The movie opens with a scene of a vast, barren land with a womans voice on the background solemn and weary. The woman narrates about her memories of her mother constantly reminding her to always have a heart-to-heart talk with God. This was true until that moment they were left by her father (the husband). Instead, she only talks about the Apocalypse, saying that God has become tired of this crazy bullshit. The next scene is in Los Angeles, the 23rd of December 1:02 am. There is darkness filled with chaotic sounds such as sirens, the loud thunder and shattering of glass with a reflection of a bloody moon. Then came Michael, falling from the sky. He went to a dark alley, pulled an ornate knife and started peeling of his coat, revealing his wings (through shadow). He began tearing his wings from his back using the sharp knife. To tend his wounds, Michael went inside a weapon/gun/survival shop (GUN AND SPORT WORLD), killing the person guarding it from the inside. He used a fishing wire to stitch the horrendous holes on his back left by the detachment. He raced along racks and racks of guns, searching for weapons the right ones. Meanwhile, two cops, Burton and Estevez, patrols downtown in their police car (LAPD). Burton blurted how burning the streets would make him happy. A fresh start, thats what this place needs. he said. Estevez was not even finished expressing his thoughts when a loud explosion commenced almost right in front of them. Michael gradually appears from the smoke carrying two huge sports bag. He was confronted by the two cops, ordering him to drop the bags and to position his hands behind his head. Estevez slowly approached him and attempted to cuff his hands but as soon as he was near, Michael was able to grab him to be used as a human shield. Burton, while pointing the gun towards Michael and commanding him to let go of his partner, suddenly had his head shaking like mad. The now possessed Burton reminded and warned Michael that this was not the orders given to him by God and if he continues he will die together with the baby (human races only hope).Michael was able to kill the possessed c op, leaving both cops lifeless. He drove away using the police car. The movie continues with the scene showing what is going to be the main venue of the movies highlights. There is a couple of old silver trailers which looked like has not moved from the ground for a long period of time. Then, there was Jeep Hanson, bolted awake from a bad dream, covered with sweat and breathing deep. He got up from bed, stepped out of one of the trailers, gazed up to the diners roof where a large sign glows PARADISE FALLS GAS N GRUB and contemplated. Then came Charlie, a very pregnant girl who asked Jeep if he is alright and shared that she could not sleep because of the constant kicking of the baby. They had a deep conversation about how he worries about her too much even though the baby is not his. Jeep said that she can laugh like everybody else but he believes that she can be better with him and that they can raise the baby together. Charlie just kissed him on the cheek and left. It is now morning, a regular day for the keepers of the diner. Bob, the owner and Jeeps father, is shown trying to fix the TV while a black named Percy is cooking on the grill. They had a short conversation about their partnership and relationship. While on the other side of the diner, there is a beautiful girl, Audrey, seductively leaning over a jukebox. She is the epitome of rebellion. Watching their daughter move her hips to the beat, Howard and Sandra Anderson were both disgusted. The couple and the daughter had a few exchanges as to why she dressed like that and how she did not fail in answering them back every time. A black Cadillac driven by a black, Kyle, blazed the desert path. He passed a weathered road sign ENTERING PARADISE FALLS, NEXT SERVICES 50 MILES. He grabbed his cell phone only to find out that there is no signal in the area. He then spotted the diner just up the road ahead. He pulled over and got out of the car. Leaning next to the broken phones is Charlie. Kyle grabbed a crumpled hand drawn map and showed it to the very pregnant woman who was then smoking. He let out a statement that smoking is not going to do any good for the baby. Intrigued, Charlie said that she might consider quitting. Kyle asked Charlie if he is anywhere near where he is going by showing the map. Charlie said he is not even close. Jeep saw the two talking and asked if everything is alright. Charlie said that the man is just lost and needs a phone, and that was when they both entered the diner. Bob, upon seeing cigarette sticks held by Charlie, claimed that it is about time for her to quit smoking due to her condition. Charlie replied that he is not in the position to tell her that since he also smokes that heavy. Charlie then gave a pack of cigarettes to Kyle. Kyle is about to ask Bob if he can use his phone when Howard butted in to verify when will their car be fixed. Bob went out of the diner and into the mechanics bay only to find out that Jeep is not doing his job fixing the car, instead, the man is busy cleaning up a small crib for Charlies. Bob became upset and started confronting Jeep about what he is doing with his life, about his obsession towards Charlie and about his future. Bob thinks that it is time for him to leave the place. Jeep said otherwise, saying that he is constantly having dreams about Charlie and about something that he needs to do but having a hard time figuring it out. Bob told him that he had same visions when he was young, which only led him to his mediocre life right now. Bob walks back to the diner. Dark clouds form and line the horizon to the south. Jeep shifts his gaze up to the north highway. Same thing. A storm is coming. Meanwhile, back into the diner, Kyle is again about to address Bob on using the phone when something caught Bobs attention. The TV is on snow-screen. Bob gave it a final wallop and the picture snaps into the STARK GRAPHIC OF THE EMERGENCY BROADCASTING SYSTEM accompanied by its hollow tone which filled the diner. Percys old battery-powered radio did the same thing, hollow tone station after station. Kyles conversation with his son was cut off and dial tone was lost. Audrey speculated that it can be a terrorist attack. Bob calmed everyone down (especially Mrs Anderson) and speculated that this was just a line problem. A beat up Eighties Cutlass Supreme pulled off the highway and stopped abreast the pump station. An old lady stepped out of the car with her metal frame and wheels of a walker. Grandma entered the diner and ordered, commented on how unusual the name Charlie is for a girl. The old woman smiled to the Andersons and said that things will be over soon. Jeep entered the diner and quietly huddled with Bob about the cars condition. He said that he could try to fix the car but it might take time. Bob was upset about the news. Moments later, Charlie handed over the order and started having a conversation with the guest. As what seemed to be a sudden turn of event, Gladys started cursing and exclaiming that all babies should burn including Charlies. Mortified with what she heard, Sandra tried silencing Gladys but she failed, only to be called a cunt who always complain. Shocked and stirred with what Gladys has said to Sandra, Howard stood and tried making Gladys apologize for what she said. Gla dys lunges towards Howard and took a bite out of his neck which made him crumbled to the floor. Percy threw a pan to the old woman which broke her neck. Surprisingly, she is still standing, ready to assault anyone in the diner. She jumped and started walking on the wall and up to the ceiling like a lizard/crab, landed right in front of Bob, who was shooting his shotgun, slapped him, and knocked him unconscious. The shotgun clatters at Jeeps feet. Jeep snatches it and aims at grandma but cannot pull the trigger. He does not have enough courage to do so. Gladys screamed he cannot save HER and rocketed straight at him when suddenly three gunshots came from behind which knocked Gladys dead. It was Kyle with his gun. Percy, Kyle, Sandra and Audrey frantically carry Howard, his neck bandaged, to the Escalade. Kyle drove as fast as he could, hitting the gas hard. Audrey noticed the dark clouds ahead but was not sure what it was. Kyle grips the wheel, picking up speed. Suddenly, hundreds of tiny bugs begin to hit the windshield. They are not clouds, they are flies! The car then entered the swarm. Everyone is screaming. Back to the diner, Jeep is puking into a toilet bowl. Bob is tending his sored cheek. The father and son had a conversation about what happened moments ago. Jeep is hurting inside, telling his father how coward he was not being able to pull the trigger. Bob comforted his son by telling him that it was alright and that not everybody can play hero. They heard the sound of the front door chimes. Kyle, Percy, Sandra and Audrey carry Howard into the diner, all of them gasping for air. They narrated what happened on their way and Percy raced for the back to get his Bible and to start praying. A police cruiser skidded to a wild stop in front of the diner. It was Michael. Charlies face lit up when she saw the police car but froze a few feet from the car when she saw those piercing eyes of Michael. In moments, Bob, Kyle and Jeep formed a protective shield in front of Charlie. Bob raised his shotgun and demanded Michael to show his teeth. Michael let out a dangerous smile and snatched the gun from Bob, telling them that they do not have much time and possessed people like Gladys will arrive in no time. Michael distributed the weapons from the cars trunk and ordered everyone to go back inside the diner and seal the place. Everybody is clueless of what is happening. That night, two headlights appear in the darkness. An ice cream truck rolls slowly toward the diner. The eerie music emanates from the speaker on its roof. A tall figure stepped out of the van. The ice cream man is unnaturally thin. His gaze snaps up to the roof, jaw unhinges, bolts to the diner with startling speed. Michael and the men started firing. Bullets rip into the creatures body, knocking him on his back, arms and legs still twitched. Not long after, numerous headlights appear from the darkness as what seemed to be a parade of commuters. The men let loose with ferocious firepower. Explosions here and there, tires blow out, engines crash; vehicles swerve and collide with one another. Dark shapes bolt from the burning vehicles, scattering and surveying the condition of the area. They converge the diner form all directions, they move so fast it is as if their feet do not touch the ground. The men followed Michaels instructions and cut down everything in sight. Casings drop from their weapons like mad. Bodies burst and crumble to the ground. Suddenly, something got a hold of Howards body. It was torn away from Sandra. Howard screamed for help. Sandra dived for Howards stretched hands. It was a teenager about Audreys age. See what you made me do, mother!? Charlie and Audrey rushed to Sandras side. Howard screamed as his body is torturously stretched. Then, another disfigured man punched through the window, grabbed Charlies hands. Jeep came to rescue and grabbed her free arm just before shes pulled through. Without the help, Howard is ripped from his familys hands and out of the window. The dark figures started to pull back as if they had what they want. Charlie was still struggling from the rip of the creepy man when a sound of metal slashing flesh was heard. It was Michael who managed to disarm the possessed. Jeep and Charlie scooted away from the window as Michael lit up the night with successive firepower. After the incident, Bob demanded some explanation of what was going on. Michael told them that this is extermination; that the weakest willed are the easiest to turn. Those people were possessed by angels. Percy pointed out what he knows is that angels are the good guys, followed by a statement from Bob that he does not even believe in God. Michael said that their beliefs do not matter right now as the only thing that matters is the safety of Charlies baby. This intrigued Charlie, saying that she is just a regular waitress not worthy of any saving. The fallen angel stressed the fact that she bears the child who is the only hope for mankind, the Messiah. Either your child lives or Mankind dies, he said. They guarded from the roof in shifts of two. Percy and Kyle were first. They had a conversation about Percy being in army for two tours and about the gun Kyle used to kill grandma. They were surrounded with coldness. Percy let out a memory when he was a kid, when his father used to remind him to be happy and be satisfied with life until the very last day. Meanwhile, in the kitchen, Bob was cooking while Sandra stared blankly at her prescriptions. Bob, noticing how distressed Sandra is, offered a can of beer. Sandra politely accepted it and sipped a little, reminded her of Howard and how he was the beer drinker in the family. Sandra burst to tears. Jeep and Michael had a conversation about everything going on and about Michaels past. Michael narrated that he was once the general of His army and that his love and hope for mankind has not yet lessened. Jeep questioned Michael as to why he continued believing in mankind. He shared that he had witnessed mankind abuse the gift given to them through wars and killings. He also shared how he saw some people not lose hope which Some people, realize that being lost is so close to being found. He said that Jeep is one of those people, that Jeep is one of the reasons he is doing this right now. Michael headed for the roof, left Jeep staring after him, deep in thought. There is a faint glint of sunlight, the 24th of December. Michael is searching the horizon for movement. Sandra awakened, heard the voice of Howard calling her. Sandra rushed to the back door, pushed the tables blocking her way out. Kyle tried to stop Sandra but her determination and longing to see her husband helped her knock the black man, hit his head on the table. Audrey tried to do the same thing but was pushed back. Percy came to get a hold of the hysterical woman who managed to get out and was just a few feet away from the nailed husband. Suddenly, Howards body, covered with boils and pustules, exploded, shooting acidic juice around him. Percy was able to shield Sandra by making an about-face while holding her tightly. They managed to go back inside the diner. He came to a stop and fell, revealing the whole back side of his body, melted by the acid. Percy just died in front of Bob. Bob was so devastated by the death of his friend. Tears fell from his eyes. Meanwhile, a scene showed Sandra being tied by Bob and Michael. In a booth, Audrey watched as her mother is being restrained. She returned her attention to Percys radio, tuning, trying to find something in the static. After a while, she called everyones attention as she finely tuned the radio for the hint of a voice. It was a broadcast about a resistance formed against the possessed people on the outskirts of Las Vegas, also in Red Rock National in the northern Mojave Desert area. Michael countered everyones belief that they can head to Red Rock National for refuge, saying it is too risky to leave. Charlie stood at the sink, filled her lungs with smoke from the cigarette. She caught a look at herself in the mirror, run her hand along the curvature of her belly. Tears welled up in her eyes. Jeep and Charlie had a conversation about her not willing to give birth to the Messiah, about Jeeps unconditional love towards her and how she did not like the entire thing. Jeep left her in hurt and frustration, telling her to let him know if she is done feeling sorry for herself. Audrey and Kyle are bundled on the roof together, keeping watch. Kyle was teaching Audrey on how to hold a gun. Kyle was surprised, it is as if Audrey has been holding one all her life. Audrey stared to the red nothingness surrounding them. Then she shared why their family was on their way to Scottsdale. She told him that her parents believed that a more wholesome place would help her change her ways. The conversation turned into passionate kissing and touching. Then all of a sudden, the diner came back to life. The jukebox started filling the room with music, TV glowed with bright rolling static and the electric fans started spinning. After a moment, headlights appear on the highway. A Family Minivan stopped at the pump. A man jumped out of the car and, seeing that the coast is clear, raced around to the gas pump. Then an army of dark shades swarmed in fast. Kyle and Audrey tried all their might to warn the family about the trap but were too late. The man was bitten; splats of blood filled the vans windows. The mother and son frantically avoided the grips of the creatures. Kyle makes a desperately courageous play. He leaps onto the roofs sloped overhang sliding fast he drops to the ground in front of the diner. Kyle charges the dark mob. Creatures peel away from the woman and boy to confront Kyle head-on. He lets loose with a rain of bullets. He closes in on the family, blasting back the creatures huddled around them. He finds the young boy curled up with his hands protectively covering his face. Kyle swoops down and gathers the boy into his arms. Kyle moves on to the mother. But something odd is happening. Kyles throat is torn out. Kyle drops to his knees. Up on the roof, Audrey watches helplessly as Kyle falls. Out the window they see Audrey drop down from the roof and run towards Kyle. The boy moves toward Audrey, stepping over Kyles body. Audrey backs away. She looks toward the entrance to the diner. Theyre everywhere. Shes trapped. She notices the open door to the Minivan. And so she bolts. Audrey dives into the car as the throng of creatures ra pidly closes in. She hammers the auto door lock. She moves to the center of the car as gruesome faces press against the windows. With stunning calm, Michael marches straight for the pumps. In the minivan, Audrey screams as the windows begin to crack. Michael grabs a gas pump, flips the lever and points it at the minivan. The creatures covering the car turn to look at Michael. And thats when he starts spraying gas at them. Up comes Michaels gun in his other hand and shoots the spray of gas turning it into a spray of fire. The minivan is engulfed in flames. Bursting out of flames, Michael marches confidently into the diner. Jeep slams the door closed just as the wall of fire reaches them. Michaels clothes are a smoky, smouldering mess. Jeep and Bob rush to pat him down. Charlie dashes behind the counter to the sink. She fills up a pitcher of water. The young boy with the lifeless white eyes stands before her wielding an enormous butchers knife. The boy swings the knife at her, slicing open the waitress outfit covering her pregnant belly. Charlie tumbles back to the ground behind the counter. She frantically pushes herself away from the approaching boy. The boy instinctively raises his hands to strike again, but theres no knife. Charlie watches in horror as the boy calmly realizes that his thumbs are missing. Charlie pulls her legs in close then rockets them out at the boys chest. Hes catapulted away from her. Michael leaps over the counter, landing in front of Charlie, guns ready for action. But the boy is gone. Jeep and Bob whip up their guns as Michael throws the wicked creature into the air. Audrey helps Charlie to her feet. She winces. Charlie, drenched in sweat is writhing on the ground with Michael holding down her arms and Audrey kneeling bet ween her legs. Pots of steaming water surround them. Charlies screaming rises up from below. A deep, long, rumbling tone rising up off the plain, as if emanating from the largest horn ever constructed. Michael reacts to the sound. Urgency comes over him. Audrey arrives with more steaming water. Charlie pushes, tears streaming down her face, delirious with pain. Jeep and Bob watch helplessly as the army of creatures has closed within a hundred yards of the diner. Their ranks stretch back seemingly without end into the darkness. Jeep rests a comforting hand on his fathers shoulder. Bob pulls his son close and hugs him with all his might, tears filling his eyes. Audrey places the child in Charlies arms. She stares at the baby, holding it at a distance, unsure of whether to embrace it or be terrified by it. A commitment shes not yet ready to make, even at this late hour. Off Charlies look, we move across the diner where Audrey approaches her mother, kneels down in front of her. Despite how much her mother pisses her off, it breaks her heart to see her in such a demoralized state. Audrey moves to hand over the baby to Charlie. Sandra springs out of the chair an snatches the baby from Audreys arms. Sandra backs away from them, moving toward the front door. Hers is the face of madness. A brilliant spectral light pours into the diner. Sandra is blinded. She raises a hand to block the light. And thats when Michael fires. Sandra staggers back, blood dripping from the hole in her forehead, and the baby goes flying from her hand. Charlie screams and everything suddenly goes very quiet. Jeep dives for the baby, catching the bundle of rags mere inches from the ground. And then he looks up to see the dark silhouette of a man approaching from out of the spectral light a man with wings. Jeeps eyes grow wide as the fierce angel steps into the diner. This is a creature built for war. His body armour making him appears disturbingly insect-like. His wings are not feathery or gentle. Rather they are hard, mechanical, an organic machine. The angels wings retract with clockwork-like precision. Gabriel flies into a wall in an attempt to crush Michael. He fails that but succeeds in leaving a massive dent. Gabriel runs/flies for the opposite wall. This one doesnt hold and the two enemies crash through it into the bathroom. Unbelievably Michael is still holding on. Gabriel is up. He thrusts himself back into the bathroom mirror. It shatters painfully behind Michael. Gabriel rages out of the bathroom and into the diner. Michael continues to ride him like a wild bull. Gabriel slams Michael into a wall once more. Its a brutal struggle. Gabriel spots his mace sticking out of the wall within arms reach. He grabs it, holding it futilely in front of him. Gabriels strength is giving w ay. Michael is winning. Gabriel lets out a tremendous roar and plunges one of the maces long spikes into his own stomach. Michaels eyes go wide with surprise, his grip loosens. Gabriel has run them both through. Gabriel rips the mace from his body and stumbles forward. Blood pours from a huge hole in Michaels chest right through his heart. Gabriel looks down at the hole in his own belly not nearly as bad as Michaels. Michael falls to his knees weakening. Gabriel looms over Michael. Michael looks up at him, blood leaking from his mouth. Gabriel watches as the last of the writing fades from Michaels body when he hears a faint clicking sound from somewhere in the diner. Gabriel moves gracefully through the destroyed diner, toward the source of the clicking. He steps behind the counter and finds Bob lying in a massive pool of blood. It takes the creature a moment to realize that the clicking sound is coming from Bobs lighter. Bob is focusing every last ounce of life in his body to lighting that lighter. Bob looks at Gabriel. And with one last brush of his thumb, Bobs trusty lighter ignites. Gabriels eyes go wide as the tiny flames dance in front of the stoves broken gas line. Gabriel spins and runs like hell as the gas explodes. Jeep tries to hide his pleasure that the tables have turned at least a little. Charlie is about to respond when Audrey leans in from the back seat. Gabriel smashes down on the cruisers roof with massive force. Jeep grabs the gun and fires wildly up at the roof. Gabriel takes a direct hit in the thigh, causing him to slide off the roof and onto the trunk where he grabs a hold of the rear window frame for support. Audrey desperately tries to load a flare while avoiding Gabriels grasp. Jeep cant get off another shot without the risk of hitting Audrey. Gabriel is almost entirely in the car now. Audrey swings the flare gun toward Gabriel, but he knocks her hand aside just as she pulls the trigger and the flare goes off inside the car. Gabriel lunges over the passenger seat, grasping for Charlie, his ferocious hand only inches from her and the baby. Audrey leaps onto Gabriel, pulling him away from Charlie just in time. He flails wildly about but this young girl rides him like one hell of a cowboy. Jeep slams on the breaks, sending Gabriel and Audrey shooting forward through the windshield like bullet. The intertwined bodies of Gabriel and Audrey hit the road with a sickening crunch and roll into a ball of fire. Charlie, the baby bundled in her hands, leads Jeep away from the demolished cruiser. They are only a few steps from the edge of the ridge when Gabriel rockets up in front of them. Jeep pushes her and the baby out of the way just as Gabriel comes down hard in front of them, kicking up a cloud of dust. Gabriels mechanical wings haltingly retract. The crash has done some serious damage. Much of his skin has burned away. Gabriel is about to launch the finishing move when a ray of light blinded him as a creature descended from the heavens. It was Michael. Gabriel, pissed and agitated, launched an all-out attack to Michael with his rotating mace. After all, Michael was the General, countering the attack was a piece of cake. He managed to slice Gabriels stomach, rendering him immobile. Michael said that its enough and God has already seen what he needed. Gabriel took flight, leaving Michael and the newly-formed family behind. Michael took flight not long after, left them a message that the child is now their responsibility and that they would have to teach him all the goodness in the world. The last scene depicts a happy family, with a womans voice on the background just like in the opening, narrating that the birth of HER son marks the start of a new beginning for humanity. ~FIN~ B. CHARACTER ANALYSIS I. ARCHANGEL MICHEAL (Paul Bettany) The commander of The Army of God; defender of faith and of the church. In the movie, he abandoned his seat in heavens (thus a fallen angel) to follow what he believed. He believed that mankind can still change for the better and that people will someday understand one another. God lost his faith in mankind, he did not. Im saying this is extermination. Those things out there are vessels. The Possessed. The weakest willed are the easiest to turn. This, explained in brief by Michael, shows how he is very familiar with the situation on contrary with the other characters. Knowing the situation, he is the only character fully prepared for what is coming. Well thats just fine, Bob, he doesnt believe in you either. This shows how well he knows Him, how he can speak for Him. After all, he is the General of His army and he can easily listen to what Gods heart has to say (though in the movie, they are not allowed to). Listen. I simply dont care what you people believe. And those things outside, they dont care either. They just want the child dead. Now, this first attack was a test of our strength. The next will be a test of our weakness. Now we can sit here and discuss it Or you can try to help me. This shows his sense of urgency and leadership and how ready he is to protect what/who needs to be protected. When God chose your kind as the object of his love. I was the first in all of heaven to bow down before you. This tells us how Michael truly loves humankind and how honoured he was to serve in accordance to Gods will. No, Im following my own orders now. Depicts the rebellious act / change of heart of Michael to protect humanity against the Apocalypse. II. JEEP HANSON (Lucas Black) A selfless man, who is constantly having some nightmares about Charlie. After being left by his mother, Jeep decided to stay with his father in a deserted place. He was, somehow, the driving force of his father (Bob Hanson) to stay strong and sane after all of the wrong decisions he had made in life. He is a perfect example of a hopeful human being. Must know something I dont? Another bad dream..? Youre the only thing I like to worry about. Shows how caring and worried he is towards Charlies condition. I could help you. We could do it together. I want toà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ This line tells us how willing Jeep is to take responsibility of Charlies even if the child is not his own flesh and blood a statement that points out how selfless Jeep is and how he loves Charlie unconditionally. Look. I know it doesnt make much sense to you. Sometimes it doesnt make much sense to me either. Ive been having these dreams about her. Some of them so badà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ I wish Id never have to sleep again. I just feel like its something I got to do. In this line, Jeep expresses his strong belief that he is doing the right thing, and he is doing what needs to be done though he cannot truly explain what that thing is. As uncertain as he is, he insists on doing what he believes and no one can stop him from doing so (even Charlie). III. CHARLIE (Adrianne Palicki) The troubled pregnant woman, who self-pities and blames herself for all the time she has lost for herself. She considers herself capable of nothing and is of no importance. Youre worried about a girl thats eight months pregnant and it isnt your baby. Its enough to give anybody nightmares. This line shows how unappreciative she is towards those people who love and care for her. Why cant she just be thankful? Bob, see where Im at right now? Can my condition really get any worse? One of the lines that show how pretty good Charlie is in putting down herself. She considers her pregnancy as a condition she is neither proud nor happy about. For her, it was all a mistake Wait just a minute. This cant be happening. Im nobody, Im just a waitress. I dont even own a car. The text explains it all. What makes you think I can do that? What makes you think I want to do that? If hes so important, why dont you take him? After the baby was born, she did not care. It was the fruit of her mistakes. It was even hard for her to look at the baby. Well, her view towards life changes at the end of the movie, so pretty much reality has sank in and lived happily with Jeep. C. REFLECTION It is pretty fascinating to think how God has just given up and lost faith to humanity. He, of all the beings, should know that as humans, we are prone to committing the extremes becoming very disobedient or very beneficial to one another. HE has given us free will, and we have used it. I think when you give someone freedom to do whatever he/she wants to do, then you would have to accept his course of action. But then again, religion would counteract this with the concept of grace which we would have to live in His grace. The movie depicted how people turned against one another the weakest willed being possessed, becoming more powerful and less prone to death than the willed ones. So, why did He not do the other way around possessing the willed ones to kill the weakest willed to wipe them all out? Why did He just not nuke all the sinful places and bless the faithful ones? I think God wanted to give us a chance thanks to Michael; the Messiah was introduced to the world unharmed. It took a one hell of a catastrophe and a fallen angel to make people realize what has been in front of us ever since but dont know how to utilize peace. To conclude, man is born naturally good. It is up to him to stay good or defy what has been written. We just have to be