Thursday, August 27, 2020

Biography of José Hernández, Former NASA Astronaut

Account of Josã © Hernndez, Former NASA Astronaut Josã © Hernndez (brought into the world August 7, 1962) conquered gigantic hindrances to get one of the few Latinos to fill in as a space explorer for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Brought up in a group of field laborers, he in any case discovered help for his fantasies and accomplished his objective of room flight. Hernndez every so often ended up amidst contention due to his candid positions in regards to Latin culture and movement to the United States. Quick Facts: Josã © M. Hernndez Known For: Former NASA astronautBorn: August 7, 1962, in French Camp, CaliforniaParents: Julia Hernndez, Salvador HernndezEducation: University of the Pacific, University of California, Santa BarbaraAwards and Honors: Hispanic Engineer National Achievement Award (1995), Society of Mexican American Engineers and Scientists Medalla de Oro (1999), U.S. Branch of Energy Outstanding Performance Commendation (2000), NASA Service Awards (2002, 2003), Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory Outstanding Engineer Award (2001)Spouse: Adelita HernandezChildren: Antonio, Vanessa, Karina, JulioPublished Works: Reaching for the Stars: The Inspiring Story of a Migrant Farmworker Turned AstronautNotable Quote: Now its my turn! Early Life Josã © Hernndez was bornâ on August 7, 1962, in French Camp, California. His folks Salvador and Julia were Mexican outsider vagrant laborers. Each March, Hernndez, the most youthful of four youngsters, ventured with his family from Michoacn, Mexico, to Southern California. Picking crops as they voyaged, the family would then continue north to Stockton, California. At the point when Christmas drew closer, the family would make a beeline for Mexico before coming back to the U.S. in the spring. He commented in a meeting for the NASA site, â€Å"Some children may figure it is enjoyable to travel that way, however we needed to work. It wasn’t a vacation.†Ã¢â‚¬â€¹ At the encouraging of a second-grade instructor, Hernndez’s guardians in the end settled in the Stockton region of California to furnish their kids with more structure. In spite of being conceived in California, the Mexican-American Hernndez didn't learn English until he was 12 years of age. Hopeful Engineer In school, Hernndez appreciated math and science. He chose he needed to be a space traveler in the wake of viewing the Apollo spacewalks on TV. Hernndez was likewise attracted to the calling in 1980, when he discovered that NASA had picked Costa Rican local Franklin Chang-Diaz, one of the principal Hispanics to travel into space, as a space explorer. Hernndez said in a NASA meet that he, at that point a secondary school senior, despite everything recollects the second he heard the news. â€Å"I was hoeing a column of sugar beets in a field close to Stockton, California, and I heard on my transistor radio that Franklin Chang-Diaz had been chosen for the Astronaut Corps. I was at that point intrigued by science and building, however that was the second I stated, ‘I need to fly in space.’† After he completed secondary school, Hernndez examined electrical designing at the University of the Pacific in Stockton. From that point, he sought after alumni concentrates in building at the University of California, Santa Barbara. In spite of the fact that his folks were vagrant laborers, Hernndez said they organized his training by ensuring he finished his schoolwork and concentrated reliably. â€Å"What I generally state to Mexican guardians, Latino guardians is that we shouldn’t invest so much energy going out with companions drinking lager and viewing telenovelas, and ought to invest additional time with our families and kids...challenging our children to seek after dreams that may appear unreachable,† Hernndez said in a questionable meeting with the Los Angles Times. Kicking things off, Joining NASA When he finished his examinations, Hernndez found a vocation with Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in 1987. There, he occupied with work with a business accomplice that brought about the production of the main full-field computerized mammography imaging framework, used to spot bosom malignant growth in its first stages. Hernndez followed his earth shattering work at Lawrence Laboratory by surrounding his fantasy about turning into a space traveler. In 2001, he marked on as a NASA materials research engineer at Houston’s Johnson Space Center, assisting with Space Shuttle and International Space Station missions. He proceeded to fill in as the Materials and Processes Branch boss in 2002, a job he filled until NASA chose him for its space program in 2004. In the wake of applying for 12 straight years to enter the program, Hernndez was finally made a beeline for space. In the wake of experiencing physiological, flight, and water and wild endurance preparing just as preparing on Shuttle and International Space Station frameworks, Hernndez finished Astronaut Candidate Training in February 2006. Three-and-a-half years after the fact, Hernndez traveled on the STS-128 transport crucial, which he administered the exchange of in excess of 18,000 pounds of gear between the van and the International Space Station and assisted with mechanical technology tasks, as indicated by NASA. The STS-128 crucial more than 5.7 million miles in just shy of about fourteen days. Movement Controversy After Hernndez came back from space, he wound up at the focal point of contention. That’s in light of the fact that he remarked on Mexican TV that from space he delighted in observing the Earth without outskirts and called for complete movement change, contending that undocumented specialists assume a significant job in the U.S. economy. His comments apparently disappointed his NASA bosses, who rushed to call attention to that Hernndez’s sees didn't speak to the association all in all. â€Å"I work for the U.S. government, however as an individual, I reserve a privilege to my own opinions,† Hernndez said in a subsequent meeting with the Los Angeles Times. â€Å"Having 12 million undocumented individuals here methods there’s a major issue with the framework, and the framework should be fixed.† Past NASA Following a 10-year run at NASA, Hernndez left the administration organization in January 2011 to fill in as official chief for Strategic Operations at aviation organization MEI Technologies Inc. in Houston. â€Å"Josà ©Ã¢â‚¬â„¢s ability and devotion have contributed extraordinarily to the office, and he is a motivation to many,† said Peggy Whitson, head of the Astronaut Office at NASA’s Johnson Space Center. â€Å"We want him to enjoy all that life has to offer with this new period of his career.† Sources Connelly, Richard. â€Å"Jose Hernandez, Astronaut Who Sparked Immigration Controversy, Retires from NASA.†Ã‚ Houston Press, 18 Jan. 2019.Dunbar, Brian. â€Å"Meet NASAs Future Explorer - Jose Hernandez.†Ã‚ NASA.NASA. â€Å"Astronaut Jose Hernandez Leaves NASA.†Ã‚ PR Newswire, 30 June 2018.Wall, Mike. â€Å"Migrant Farmer-Turned-Astronaut Jose Hernandez Leaves NASA.†Ã‚ Space.com, 17 Jan. 2011.Wilkinson, Tracy. â€Å"Mexican American Astronaut Isnt Changing Course on Immigration Stand.†Ã‚ Los Angeles Times, 17 Sept. 2009.

Saturday, August 22, 2020

Justin Bieber Concert Review free essay sample

As though hand crafted T-shirts and radio challenges werent sufficiently energizing, the ultra piercing shouts of 20,000 at Milwaukee Summerfest implied Justin Bieber was inside a five-mile span. Two hours before showtime, the arena was an ocean of neon shirts, signs, and body paint that read â€Å"Bieber Fever,† â€Å"Biebers Baby,† â€Å"HUG ME!† and â€Å"One Less Lonely Girl.† The line for yard seats had shaped promptly in the first part of the day, and the one for prepaid seats was nearly as long! At long last it was a race to the best seats in light of one objective: Will I get a decent picture of Justin? At that point it was the ideal opportunity for opening act number one, The Stunners. These five young ladies injected pop melodies with Beyonce-style move moves. Their set added more vitality to the effectively shouting swarm. Next was Jessica Jarrell, an independent craftsman who recorded a melody with Bieber. Her pleasant pop solid heated up the group considerably more. We will compose a custom paper test on Justin Bieber Concert Review or on the other hand any comparative theme explicitly for you Don't WasteYour Time Recruit WRITER Just 13.90/page By 7:30 the crowd was prepared for Sean Kingston. His high vitality, Jamaican-feeling set went on for 45 minutes, and the shouting was just expanding as the warmth rose. After each melody, the group started to recite and cheer. It resembled a horde was all set in front of an audience and pull Justin out. At long last, at 8:45 an introduction played on the screens, the setting for the unrivaled Justin Bieber, who exited with his strut close behind. Strobe lights, smoke, and Bieber characterized the set. Eight back-up artists, a full band, and ultra-high-vitality tunes overwhelmed the earsplitting shouts of fans. Anthems, two part harmonies with Kingston and Jarrell, and a capella melodies by the back up artists dont even start to portray the show the 16-year-old put on. With two huge screens  ­projecting YouTube recordings  ­during outfit changes, a live video feed during melodies, and pictures for the initial demonstrations, this show was the ideal mix of music and  ­technology.

Friday, August 21, 2020

DIY Pest Control Will Save You Money, But Is It Really Feasible

DIY Pest Control Will Save You Money, But Is It Really Feasible DIY Pest Control Will Save You Money, But Is It Really Feasible? DIY Pest Control Will Save You Money, But Is It Really Feasible?The best way to affordably handle a pest infestation yourself is to make sure the infestation never starts in the first place.While hiring a professional to de-pestify your home is usually effective, it can also be very expensive. DIY pest control offers a much more affordable path, but is it effective enough to actually, like, work?Well,  it  can  be. You just have to go about it the right way.Preventing an infestation is a lot cheaper than getting rid of one.  You don’t have to worry about getting rid of pests if they never show up in the first place, right?  When it comes to many common pests like mice, rats, and cockroaches, you should make sure to keep your place clean and tidy.“Good household hygiene is important,” advised Jordan Foster, pest control technician with Fantastic Pest Control (@Fantastic). “Make sure to seal the rubbish well and dispose of it quickly, avoid leaving dirty dishes in the sink or o n the countertops, and put away any food leftovers. Leakages of any sorts around the house should be fixed because those are the easiest to reach water sources for many pests.”But some pests require additional caution. For instance, heres what Foster told us about preventing bed bugs:“When traveling, make sure to check the bed area for any signs of bed bug presence. Don’t bother looking at the sheets as they change them daily. Instead, check below the mattress and around the bed frame. Avoid picking up furniture from the street or buying second-hand furniture. Even non-upholstered items can be infested.”These arent the only things you can do to prevent pests from moving in and taking over.“Try prevention first,” said Caleb Backe, Health and Wellness Expert at Maple Holistics (@MapleHolistics). “Do not leave uncovered food around. Close off potential shelter for pests such as openings in the wall or in furniture. If you already have little unwanted visitors in your home , there are DIY ways to get rid of them before you start bringing in professionals.”Notice how an expert in health and wellness is giving you great tips to prevent a pest infestation? Theres a reason for that. A lot of these best practices will have benefits way beyond just warding off bugs and mice.Getting rid of pests on your own  requires a lot of time and attention.  Even the best-laid pest prevention plans arent 100 percent effective. Once an infestation sets in, youll be left with a much harder task ahead and lot more questions to answer.But lets get to the point: How can you deal with infestations on your own?“You can do it with almost any pest, Foster told us. It’s just that DIY pest control requires lots of beforehand research and patience because it takes time and meticulousness of ones actions.”“There are some great in-depth online resources with the help of which you can decrease or even completely destroy a pest colony, thus cutting the costs for professional extermination. Some of the pests that are easily treatable include: fleas, flies, wasps and their nests, and ants.”It’s worth doing your own online research to see which methods would work best for your living situation. But we can offer some links to start with.This article  is a good place to start if youre dealing with fleas.  In addition to getting a flea and tick collar, you can do things like wash your animals with lemon-scented dish soap or put a bowl of sudsy water under a lamp to draw out and drown the fleas that are already there.There are lots of cheap and natural remedies for dealing with house flies. Here’s a list that includes suggestions like basil, tea tree oil, and the always reliable sticky ribbons.When it comes to wasps, there are ways to handle it on your own, but unless you consider yourself a “real toughie,” this might be a situation where it’s worth calling in a pro.Some other pests that Foster agrees you’d be better off calling a pro for: “bed bugs, mice and rats, woodworms, and cockroaches. If you spot any of these, you shouldn’t postpone contacting a professional. The longer you wait and let the infestation to develop, the harder and more expensive it will be to remove the pest. Acting fast, be it with DIY or professional solution, is essential when dealing with pests.”DIY tips for dealing with mosquitos and ticks.Mosquitos might be some of the peskiest pests around. They’re bad enough outside the house, but if they get inside, you can find yourself waking up in the morning with half your blood sucked away. Same goes for ticks.Thankfully, the professionals at Mosquito Squad (@mosquitoSQUADco) gave us a list of tips for handling skeeters and ticks:7 Ts of mosquito control for homeownersTIP: Anything that can hold waterâ€"tip it over! This includes childrens sandboxes and toys, plant saucers, and dog bowls.TOSS: Excess grass, leaves, firewood and yard clippingsâ€"chuck em.TURN: Tipping is great, but turning over is better. Turn over larger yard items that could hold water.Remove TARPS: If you have tarps stretched over firewood piles, boats or sports equipment, and they arent tautâ€"you guessed itâ€"theyre holding water. Water = mosquitoes.TAKE CARE:  Take care of home maintenance needs that can contribute to standing water. Areas where water pools, such as near faucets or water spouts, leaking irrigation systems, clogged gutters, and all of those places, offer a breeding haven for mosquitoes.TEAM UP: Despite taking all precautions in your own home, talking with neighbors is a key component to mosquito control. Townhomes and home with little space between lots mean that mosquitoes can breed at a neighbors home and affect your property.TREAT: Using a mosquito elimination barrier treatment at home reduces the need for using DEET bug spray on your body. FYI: Mosquito Squads mosquito control barrier protection eliminates up to 90 percent of mosquitoes and ticks on a property.6 Cs of tick control for homeownersCLEAR DEBRIS: Ticks thrive in damp, shaded environments and tend to die in sunny, dry areas. Clear out areas where lawn and tree debris gather and relocate compost piles away from high traffic areas. Separate those areas with wood chips or gravel, and avoid positioning playground equipment, decks, or patios near wooded areas.CLEAN: Eliminate leaf litter and brush by cleaning it up around the house and lawn edges, mow tall grasses, and keep your lawn short. This reduces the number of places that ticks can hide.CHOOSE PLANTS: Select plants and shrubs that are not attractive to deer and/or install physical barriers to keep deer out of your yard. Check with your local nursery to determine the best choices for your area.CHECK HIDING PLACES: Familiarize yourself with the most likely tick hiding places on your property and check them frequently. Fences, brick walls, and patio retaining walls are all common hiding places.CARE FOR FAMILY PETS: Family pets are prime targets for ticks and can carry infected ticks into your home. Talk to your veterinarian about using tick collars or sprays. As with all pest control products, be sure to only use as directed and to always use with caution.CALL THE PROS: To play it safe, call the pros to apply barrier treatments so you can enjoy your yard in peace.Hopefully, this has given you an understanding of what you can handle on your own and when you should call in the experts. May you have a pest free life!To learn more about handling things DIY, check out these related posts and articles from OppLoans:Flood Preparedness: 10 Expert DIY and Low-Cost TipsTricks and Tips for Cheaper Car Repairs12 Tips for Getting Rid of (and Selling) Your Extra ClutterWhat do you do when youve got pests in the house?  We want to hear from you!  You can  email us  or you can find us on  Facebook  and  Twitter.Visit OppLoans on  YouTube  |  Facebook  |  Twitter  |  LinkedINContributorsCaleb Backe is a certified personal trainer as well as a Health and Wellness Expert specializing in personal care for Maple Holistics (@MapleHolistics). He is from Riverdale, New York.Jordan Foster is a professional pest technician for Fantastic Pest Control (@Fantastic), a London-based company that serves residential and business properties. Prior to joining with Fantastic, Jordan was a company owner and was managing a small team of local exterminators. He specializes in mice rat control and bed bug removal.With over 240 franchise locations nationwide, Mosquito Squad (@mosquitoSQUADco)  specializes in eliminating mosquitoes and ticks from outdoor living spaces, allowing Americans to enjoy their yards, outdoor living spaces, special events and green spaces. For more information, visit  MosquitoSquad.com.

Monday, May 25, 2020

Analysis Of The Book Brave New World By Anton Chekhov

Pursuit of Happiness Liberty gives you the freedom to find your own happiness. Personal liberty is an individual to do whoever she/he pleases. In a short story called â€Å"The Man in a Case† by Anton Chekhov, a character named Byelikov is consistent of the way he lives. Byelikov was man that strictly played by the rules. For someone that is freely but seemed unhappy, he was scared to take risk because he wanted to be ready unexpected. A book named Brave New World by Aldous Huxley, is about the people of the World State having to accept what was given and told to them. They were not individually happy because everyone is counted as a whole and must share the same satisfaction to be stable. Everyone deserves to have their own happiness no matter what. Is a certain amount of personal liberty necessary for happiness? All of personal liberty is necessary for happiness because it brings happiness, satisfaction, and individualism that leads to opportunities. First, everyone deserve s to freely pursue their own happiness in the way they want. We are all entitled to figure out what we want in life that makes us happy. A character from a short story called â€Å"The Man in a Case† by Anton Chekhov, a man name Byelikov was a man that simply lived his life with precautions. He always wore the same thing to protect himself from the unexpected, â€Å"He was remarkable for always wearing galoshes and a warm wadded coat, and carrying an umbrella even in the finest weather.† Byelikov lived a cautiousShow MoreRelatedA Doll House by Henrik Ibsen7379 Words   |  30 PagesMa. Jennifer S. Yap Dr. Sherwin Perlas World Literature January 14, 2012 A Doll House by Henrik Ibsen Translated by Rolf Fjelde I. Introduction During the late nineteenth century, women were enslaved in their gender roles and certain restrictions were enforced on them by a male dominant culture. Every woman was raised believing that they had neither self-control nor self-government but that they must yield to the control of a stronger gender. John Stuart Mill wrote in his essay, â€Å"The Subjection

Wednesday, May 6, 2020

E Bach s Influence On The Empfindsam Style And Future...

C.P.E Bach’s Influence on the Empfindsam Style and Future Composers Carl Phillip Emmanuel Bach is listed in many history books as an important transitional composer between the baroque style and the classical style without giving specific reasons why. This essay focuses on the significant contributions C.P.E Bach made to music theory and the way music was performed. This essay will also cover his influence on the emerging empfindsam style and the inspiration he gave his musical successors, such as Haydn and Mozart. C.P.E Bach believed music should achieve a connection with listeners on the emotional level. He himself was influenced by the Enlightenment and it came out in his view of music and his very individual compositional style. He†¦show more content†¦His sonatas effectively capture the idea of continuously changing emotions, which is a key feature of empfindsam style. C.P.E. Bach’s genius in his contributions to keyboard playing and composition are often skimmed over. He is gets lost in the transition between his father J.S. Bach to Haydn and Mozart. By the time Haydn and Mozart came to the forefront of the new classical music Bach’s fingering for scales and fundamental bass was widely used. C.P.E. Bach did not agree with many of the existing treatises on music theory including a leading music theorist Rameau. His largest disagreement was with Rameau’s ideas on fundamental bass. Fundamental bass is what is known as the root of chords today. Bach recognized t hat there were more chords than Rameau having only one root but having several qualities. Lester says that Rameau’s ideas are regarded as an important predecessor to music theory but is criticized about his idea that chords had two different roots (157). According to Mitchell, William J., Bach recognized twenty chords some of which are variations of chords including subtypes and chromatic alterations. Bach also disagreed with Rameau on the behavior of chords. He believed that the intervals in the transitions between chords were important beyond the base notes of the chords. He emphasized context and

Tuesday, May 5, 2020

Archetypes in The Little Mermaid free essay sample

There are four archetype characters that are prominant in The Little Mermaid. They include Ariel as the hero, Flounder and Sebastian as the hunting companions, and Ursala as the devil figure. Some of these characters have a color or situational archetype that surround them. Ariel, the main character, is seen as the hero of the movie. She shows characteristics of a hero when she risks her own life to save other people and again when she fights the evil Ursula to become a human. This archetype reveals the inner-strength of this character, while she seems to be a simple-minded young girl; we realize by the end of the film that she is very strong minded and cunning. She is also tied into the star-crossed lovers archetype, as she falls in love with a human, while she is a mermaid. Flounder and Sebastian, a fish and a crab, can be seen as Ariels hunting companions. We will write a custom essay sample on Archetypes in The Little Mermaid or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page An example of when this archetype is shown is when Flounder ventures with Ariel into the abandoned ship, even though he doesnt want to. Another example could be when Sebastian tries to help Ariel get the prince to fall in love with her. This archetype reveals that these to characters are not inconsequential, and help aid Ariel on her quest. Ursula, the witch, is considered the devil figure of The Little Mermaid. Throughout the movie there are many examples of this, the biggest one might be considered when she attempts to kill Ariel and the prince after her plan to take King Tritions throne is ruined. It shows that she is completely evil and has no hope of redemption. Thus it pinpoints her as the devil figure. The archetype color black is coupled with her to show the viewer he true intentions throughout the movie. The over-all archetype symbolism displayed throughout the movie is the Heaven vs. Hell archetype. Indicating that Ursuala would represent hell, or the devil and Ariel would represent heaven or an innocent angel. This knowledge helps us better understand the purpose of the film by providing the viewer with a clear concept of what the roles of the characters are throughout the movie.

Monday, March 9, 2020

The Evolution of Western Intel essays

The Evolution of Western Intel essays Throughout the ages, man has believed himself to be self sufficient. Starting in the Homeric Age, a gradual change in the intellectual thought of mankind began to occur. From the way they viewed God to the way they reasoned, mans search for knowledge received an ever changing role throughout the periods between the Age of Myth and the Enlightenment. The Age of Myth occurred around 600 B.C. It was a time when everybody believed in the supernatural. Gods and humans were considered to be equal. In fact, man and the gods would interact on a daily basis. The age is referred to as a pre-scientific era because of the popular belief in the supernatural. When Greece started developing philosophies about ethics and morality, a connection to the Age of Classical Philosophy was made. Socrates, a member of the Classical Philosophy Age, was the first philosopher to focus mainly on ethics and morality. (Philosophy 100 Essential Thinkers) Also, in both ages, polytheism was practiced, which was later challenged by Thales in the Age of Classical Philosophy. (Philosophy 100 Essential Thinkers) Yet, there was a difference between the ages. In the Age of Myth, people didnt question the existence of the gods, but in the Age of Classical Philosophy they did. The Age of Classical Mythology occurred between 600 and 1 B.C. God and man werent considered to be equal anymore because science replaced the supernatural. People believed there was a god that took care of creation and that there was an undefined force watching over them. This led to the practice of deism and animism. In the Age of Classical Philosophy, philosophers began to become more religious than philosophical, like in the Patristic Age. The afterlife was suddenly considered to be heaven and hell, not the atheistic views they had before. The focus on new beliefs and values united the people in the Patristic Age. (http://iep.utm.edu/p/pa ...

Saturday, February 22, 2020

Tata International Marketing Analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Tata International Marketing Analysis - Essay Example In developing countries like China, India, and Brazil the demand is a great demand for small cars, where the reason is that the majority of the population belongs to the mid-class and prefer small cars rather than highly expensive luxury cars (Enderwick, 2012). Similarly, the rise of oil imports in the developed countries like US has lead to higher demand for fuel efficient cars. This has somehow promoted small car models, which are highly fuel efficient and cost effective (Enderwick, 2012). This study will give a detailed analysis of Tata Motors Company in order to understand how much enterprise is successful in its ultra-low cost car brand â€Å"Tata Nano† (McLoughlin & Aaker, 2010). The analysis will evaluate Tata Nano’s international marketing strategy with respect to the global market segments. The learning objectives in the study are to understand the position of Tata Nano market and to know how Tata Motors is compelling with its International marketing strategies (Kotler, 2009, pp.46). Background to Tata Motors Tata Motors is one of the major car manufacturing companies of Tata Group, the most recognized group in the Indian conglomerate market. The group is present in 85 countries across the world with a workforce population of 300,000 people working at the same time (Weihrich & Cannice, 2010). The Tata Group has founded 98 companies working in different market and business segments. All of this shows that The Tata Group is a leading benchmark in the Indian stock market and it is with a unified presence in the world’s multinational spectrum (Weihrich & Cannice, 2010, pp.103). Tata Motors is one of the stemming companies of the Tata Group. Along with the manufacturing of different car segments like trucks, trailers, and passenger cars, Tata Motors had found a distinctive recognition in India especially in passenger cars like Tata Nano (Akhanov et al., 2009). The car has become popular just because of its Ultra-Low Cost feature. It has touched the hearts of million Indians, who love the car just because of its cheap and easy to afford characteristics. Tata Motors holding a 15-20 percent share in the Indian passenger car market has stabilized a good position domestically, but due to low international sales volume the brand is weak in the global market domain (Akhanov et al., 2009). Analysis and Assessment of Tata Nano Theory of Blue Ocean Strategy â€Å"In a market there are two formats of industries, red oceans and blue oceans. Red oceans are old industries present with conventional norms and settings in the market while blue oceans are untouched market segments, where there is a space to adjust new products with new trends† (Kim & Mauborgne, 2005). Practice It was the fiscal 2008 when Tata Motors launched Nano on a global stage. The launch ranked the car to the World’s cheapest cars category, where it got available in the price US$2,230. This was the first time that India retrieved such cheapest ca r, which included all the features of a brand new car with the drastic attribute of affordability (Pride & Ferrell, 2011, pp.652). The Nano brought lots of expectations for Tata Motors, where the effort has been to promote it in the European corners. In this respect, the company follows extensive growth strategies to bring the car on the International market segment, where there is a need to understand the global low-cost

Wednesday, February 5, 2020

Obesity and its many health concerns Research Paper

Obesity and its many health concerns - Research Paper Example This was owing to the alarming increase in the number of people suffering from this problem as well as the serious health risks that an individual is exposed to owing to this health condition. Obesity is a life hampering condition which tends to affect the living of an individual and this issue needs to be dealt with in the best possible manner to control the rise in the number of people suffering from this problem (McCambridge 2006). . The statistics of obesity have been increasing at a very fast pace in the United States of America. The situation has become very grave owing to the fact that it has been analyzed that United States has the highest rates of obesity in comparison to the other countries across the globe. In the year 2010, it was seen that one out of every five people in the United States suffered from the problem of increased weight. This showed a substantial increase in comparison to the year 1991 when one out of every eight individuals had weight above the normal limi ts. Furthermore, it has been highlighted that the rate of obesity has increased by more than three times in comparison to the year 1961. Dr. ... According to the similar report the number of adults who have weight above normal limits and are obese ranges to about 130 million (Bass III 2011; Huber 2010; McCambridge 2006). It has been highlighted that obesity is a pathological condition that poses many risks for the human health. The Department of Health and Human Services indicated the fact that the obese individuals laid a greater burden on the healthcare system of the country and hundred billion dollars have to be diverted every year towards the healthcare costs on the obese individuals. It has also been analyzed that obesity related pathologies are responsible for the death of 300,000 people in the United States (Bass III 2011; Huber 2010). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have set standards to check for the individuals who suffer from obesity. The Body Mass Index is the widely used calculation for checking obesity. This index utilizes the height and the weight of the person to calculate the results of the amo unt of fat present in a person’s body. The result is compared with a standard chart which has the different BMI values according to the sex and the age of the individuals. This indicates the fact that the BMI values differ from one person to owing to different BMI values for different ages and sexes. The CDC has laid guidelines that all individuals who have a BMI ranging from 25 to 29.9 suffer from increased weight and those individuals who have a BMI above 30 suffer from obesity (Bass III 2011; McCambridge 2006). There has been great emphasis laid upon childhood obesity and obesity amongst the younger age groups. This is owing to the fact that forty percent of

Tuesday, January 28, 2020

Oman Telecommunication Company

Oman Telecommunication Company Introduction Brief History The Oman telecommunication company is the most reliable and unique telecom and multimedia service provider in Pakistan which is also known as Omantel. The world call telecommunication limited is also the Omantelscompany. The companys word:- â€Å"WorldCall launched its business in June 1996 with payphone operations. A fundamental shift in technology and industry, innovation and dedication led us to growth in diversified businesses with a range of services designed to serve the needs of the local market. From Cable Broadband to Wireless Broadband, from Cable TV to Video on Demand, from LDI services and fiber optic network to wireless local loop telephony, WC has crossed a number of milestones. WC offers an array of services under three major service categories i.e. Data, Entertainment and Voice.† WorldCall Telecom Ltd. became an associate company of Omantel after acquisition of major share holding by Omantel in 2008. Today, WorldCall Telecom has become more innovative, dedicated, and reliable company in Pakistan. Status of Omantel:- Oman Telecommunications Company (Omantel) is the largest communication service provider in Oman. Any telephone call you make, local or international, the SMS Messages, or internet services, Omantel is the major and larger provider. Situational Analysis In 1996 First Capital Securities Corporation commenced to incubate payphone operation named WorldCall Payphones Limited. The new venture stood first in a communication revolution that was yet to hang on the country. WorldCall perception of a changing business environment placed them at the lead of a demand-led explosion of payphones all over the country. WorldCall introduced their first payphone in June 1996. They were one of the largest fixed line payphone operators. With the expansion in telecom they have continued to innovate. Over the years they have invested heavily in new technologies and businesses. In 1998 prepaid calling cards were launched by WorldCall Phonecards under the brand name Hello. In the following years WC provided its dial-up internet services through WorldCall.com. In 2000 WorldCall in Multimedia segment established a Hybrid Fiber Coaxial (HFC) network in Lahore thus becoming the first Multi-service operator in the country, providing cable television and Internet-over-cable. WC cable TV in Lahore, is the last but largest entrant till now. In 2003 WC launched a state of the art HFC network operation in Karachi under WorldCall Broadband Limited. These are the largest and only national networks capable of three features at the same time (cable TV, high speed internet/data and telephony). WorldCall Telecom Limited got Wireless Local Loop (WLL) license in the post deregulation auction to provide WLL telephony in all 14 telecom regions of Pakistan primarily in the 1900 MHz band. It has partnered with Samsung for a CDMA 2000. WC started service from Lahore in June 2005 which is now available in over 40 cities. WC also acquired an LDI license and service commenced at the end of 2004. WTL enjoys significant edge over competition due to unused fiber optic capabilities available in the telecommunication sector. In April 2008, Omantel had acquired 65 percent shares of WorldCall Telecom Limited for $200 million. The CEO WorldCall Mr Salmaan Taseer led the WorldCall delegation Salman Taseer said that WorldCall is the first company to launch payphone cards, High HFC System and local loop in the country. WorldCall is positioned in a unique way being the only real Multi Service Operator (MSO) in Pakistan telecom landscape with proven track record and established market position in various segments of its operations. WorldCall also enjoys leadership position with consistent growth in its market share for broadband connectivity and cable television. Focus of rollout will principally target broadband segment with sustained growth of voice services. This planned expansion coupled with initial investment would see a decent inflow of capital into Pakistan. Omantel is a publicly traded telecom company based in Oman with diversified operations. However, acquisition of majority stake in WorldCall is its first overseas venture. Structure of WorldCall Location of offices Location of Head Office WorldCall Telecom Limited 67-C III, Gulberg III, Lahore, Pakistan Tel: (92 42) 5872633-38 Fax: (92 42) 5755231 Wireless Local Loop Main Office Ibrahim Trade Center (Near Barkat Market) 1- Aibak Block, New Garden Town, Lahore (92 42) 8464646 www.callwireless.com.pk WLL Helpline (92) 0800-19111 WC Net Helpline 109, UAN (111-111-965) Number of Total Employees:- As of December 2010, around 1800 total employees work for WorldCall. (More than 3000 before downsizing after acquisition of WorldCall by Omantel, however these decisions were taken by the Omani top management) Legal Status and Nature of Business The Group consists of: WorldCall Telecom Limited WorldCall Telecom Limited (the Company) is a public limited company incorporated in Pakistan on 15 March 2001 under the Companies Ordinance, 1984 and its shares are quoted on the Karachi and Lahore Stock Exchanges. WorldCall Telecom Ltd. groups principal activity is to provide telecommunication services. It operates through two business segments: Telecom segment provides operation and maintenance services for payphone network. Broadband segment provides internet over cable and cable TV services. The Group operates mainly in its domestic market. The Company commenced its operations on 01 December 2004 and is engaged in providing Wireless Local Loop (WLL) and Long Distance International (LDI) services in Pakistan, operation and maintenance of public payphones network and re-broadcasting international/national satellite/terrestrial wireless and cable television and radio signals as well as interactive communication and to establish, maintain and operate the licensed telephony services. The Company has been licensed by Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) for these purposes. Worldcall Telecommunications Lanka (Private) Limited (the Subsidiary) was incorporated in Sri Lanka and is a joint venture with Hayleys Group to operate payphones. The principal activity of the Subsidiary is the operation and maintenance of public payphones networks. Payphones are installed at various shops/commercial outlets. The Company holds 70.65% of voting securities in the Subsidiary. Type of Ownership A Subsidiary of Omantel Before the acquisition and restructuring of WorldCall, the WorldCall group was consisted of following companies: Worldcall Communications Limited Worldcall Phone cards Limited Worldcall Multimedia Limited Worldcall Broadband Limited Omantel decided to consolidate WorldCall into a single company and as a subsidiary of Omantel. Foreign Subsidiary Worldcall Telecommunications Lanka (Pvt.) Limited is a foreign subsidiary of Worldcall Telecom Ltd. Key Players Historically Salman Taseer remained the key player in WorldCall as a Leader, CEO and Chairman.After the completion of acquisitions Omantel plays important role at corporate level but WorldCall lacks any leadership personality like Salman Taseer. CEO of the Company The current players are Babar Ali Sayed (CEO) former LDI Director Operations. First time in the history of WorldCall the CEO is from Technical Department, unlike previous CEOs with background in Finance and Chartered Accountants. A current picture of MR. Babar Ali Syed is below: Board of Directors Mr. Mehdi Mohammed Al Abduwani Mr. Talal Said Marhoon Al-Mamari Mr. Bernhard Heinichen Mr. Samy Ahmed Abdulqadir Al Ghassany Mr. Zafar Iqbal Mr. Aimen bin Ahmed Al Hosni Mr. Saud bin Ahmed Al-Nahari Mr. Shehryar Ali Taseer Mr. Asadullah Khawaja (nominee Arif Habib Securities Limited) Vision and Mission Statements VISION:- We at WorldCall are committed to achieving dynamic growth and service excellence by being at the cutting edge of technological innovation. We strive to consistently meet and surpass customers, employees and stake-holders expectations by offering state-of-the-art telecom solutions with national international footprints. We feel pride in making efforts to position WorldCall and Pakistan in the forefront of international arena. MISSION:- In the telecom market of Pakistan, WorldCall to have an overwhelming impact on the basis of following benchmarks: Create new standards of product offering in basic and value added telephony by being more cost effective, easily accessible and dependable. Thus ensuring real value for money to all segments of market. Be a leader within indigenous operators in terms of market share, gross revenues and ARPU within five years and maintain the same positioning thereafter. Achieve utmost customer satisfaction by setting up high standards of technical quality and service delivery. Ensuring the most profitable and sustainable patterns of ROI (Return on Investment) for the stake-holders. ANALYSIS of MISSION STATEMENT WHO ARE WE?  § Be a leader within indigenous operators in terms of market share, gross revenues and ARPU within five years and maintain the same positioning thereafter. WHAT WE DO?  § Create new standards of product offering in basic and value added telephony by being more cost effective, easily accessible and dependable. Thus ensuring real value for money to all segments of market. WHERE ARE WE NOW?  § Achieve utmost customer satisfaction by setting up high standards of technical quality and service delivery. Now in term Components:-  § Customers  § Product services  § Markets  § Technology  § Concern for survival growth and profitability  § Philosophy  § Self concept  § Concern for public image  § Concern for employees Suggested Correct Vision Statement:- To be a leader in a telecom industry by being at cutting edge of technological innovation. Goals Objectives of WorldCall 2010:- GOALS:- To redevelop an infrastructure which help company to implement multi destination LDI operations To expand the wireless broadband network To secure advertisement revenue share through cable TV network OBJECTIVES:- To secure international terminations from the major countries of Europe and USA; and establishments POPs (Point-Of-Presence, Switch, Router, Billing system) using co-location. To establish head-ends (main transmission source) in 14 major cities of Pakistan. WorldCall plans to expand its EVDO service in all the 50 major cities of Pakistan. External and Internal assessment PESTE(L) ANALYSIS The Telecom sector all around the world and especially in Pakistan has experienced a tremendous growth in the last few years. The telecommunication sector of Pakistan was awarded the status of industry in 2005 and since then it has been one of the fastest growing sectors of Pakistan quite eminent from various factors such as the mobile density reaching 61.7% in December 2010 and the number of mobile subscribers reaching 102 million. (Source: Pakistan Telecommunication Authority, Annual report 2010). Political factors The political environment of Pakistan is getting unstable uncertain day by day so only the government decision and initiative measures are very important. Decline in foreign investment is also the reason of political instability. PTA is highly autonomous govt. organization and has shown the moderate continuity in the policies regardless of changes in the political environment. PTA is striving hard and trying its best to provide equal competition opportunities in Telecom industry. Govt. can announce unexpected tax changes in Telecom industry. PTA convinced the government that raising taxes will not result in more money coming in the reverse is actually true as the Pakistan government got less revenue. Economical factors The ever increasing economical issues like inflation and the growing debt of Pakistan. The disposable income of people getting low due to the price inflation of consumer goods services. PTA report 2010 tells that telecom sector of economy is in a good shape and growing. Inflation is controlling by state bank and under strict eyes but unemployment rate is going up and up with the increase of level of poverty. High interest rate ~13% Decline in Telecom share in total GST due to low tariffs. Social factors Telecommunication is used in the professional and private sphere now days. Better telecommunication services and telecommunication is now becoming essential part of people lifestyle. Now people have become habitual of consuming new technology products. Internet has become a real working tool; people use Internet at home, at work. People are interested in more than just â€Å"Plain Old Cable/TV† technologies†¦ like Digital Cable TV, Video-On-Demand, and Personal Video Recorders not just plain old TV due to frequent use of internet. Young generation is getting more interest in wireless telecommunication and spends more time in online social activities like chatting, social networking. Telecommunication becoming an integrated part of our social life style. People now like to use Facebook on their pc and on mobile, allowing them to connect with their family and friends anytime anywhere. Internet becomes an integral part of people social-lives. Online gaming is growing rapidly and the ever increasing gaming competition all over the world and in pakistan as well. Technological factors Telecom sector have technology with which they can compete in Pakistan and now companies are investing in their infrastructure to not only expand but also to upgrade their existing structure. Currently mostly companies are providing Multi-media Messaging Services (MMS), General Packet Radio Service (GPRS), Virtual Private Network (VPN), Pocket Stocks, Conference Calling, Wallpapers Animated pictures Polyphonic ring tones (WAP), and Voice Mail at low price and some are also providing feature that one can see TV channels on their cell. Individuals and companies are recognizing the benefits of mobility of wireless broadband. The expertise of IT and Telecom industry has greatly reduce cost and time on the usage of products and services. For example, new VoIP technologies are changing the cost structure of the LDI business. Upcoming future wireless broadband technologies are changing the trends of internet usage. Pakistans telecom industry is one the fastest growing industries even compared to other countries. Innovations and development in telecom technologies has played a major role in the overall growth. Innovations and Developments in IT and Telecom can create and motivate new demands. Like Video Conferencing induced more demand for companies interested in online business meetings. Now a day, firms are in search of reliable information systems. And for this telecom technologies playing vital role. Environmental factors The telecommunication towers spoil the view especially of tourism places but no attention is paid towards this. Ecological Factors Natural Obstructions in Wireless Transmission Infrastructure usage facing difficulty due to the conditions of land. Legal factors Corruption and bribery in legal authorities suffers a telecom companies a lot to face difficulties PTA is the telecom industry regulator and their some objectives are: Telecom sector changed from monopoly to competition Protection of the rights of the companies competing with incumbents and to provide safeguards the interest of the users of the telecommunication services. The unbiased laws of telecom sector to establish healthy competition in market. Porters five forces model Threat of New Entrants Telecom is a very capital concentrated industry, entry into this industry means that the firms need access to huge amount of capital mainly to cover the fixed costs to lay and maintain a physical network (infrastructure, fiber optic cables etc) to the premises of customers. As it is mandatory for the firms to get approval/licenses from PTA, which is both costly, and a tiresome job. Although companies in this industry mostly tended to monopolies regulated by the government up to price controls and moderate to heavy taxation. The telecom industry is already dominated by major players and smaller manufacturers have to struggle, due to high setup costs and market dominations threat of new entrants is low because of: Ø High Government restrictions or legislation Ø Telecom licenses, rights, regional licenses Ø Expected Mergers and Acquisitions Ø High fixed costs Ø High Capital requirements Ø Aggressive competition Bargaining Power of Suppliers There is intense competition between suppliers because of multi-million dollar contracts between Pakistani firms and mostly foreign suppliers. List of suppliers who intensely compete with each other to reach contracts with their business customers. Sometimes suppliers show flexible behavior to maintain the long term relationship with their profit oriented customers. In an telecom industry the manufacturers of telephone switching /switch board equipment, fiber optic cables, network equipment, and billing software makers are low. The prominent names in this industry include Cisco, Alcatel-lucent, Ericsson, Hawawie, ZTE, Samsung, Nortel and Motorola. With the outcome of economic crises and excess capacity and falling demand, the suppliers do not have much power and have to negotiate gently with the telecom companies because of: Ø High availability of substitute inputs Ø Competitive suppliers of telecom equipment Ø Low degree of differentiation of inputs, due to high component standardization. Bargaining Power of Consumer Consumer have high power because customer influence in pricing and shifts towards other sellers if he/she is not satisfied with the quality or price of the product or services. Consumers have very high buying power in telecom sector because though they have many options to choose from especially in Voice segment. Firms are now more concentrating on providing after sales services. Most of the products in the telecom sector industry have not much difference while some may have considerable differences. The increasing trend of communication like email, instant messaging, is declining the importance of voice services. Ø Switching to another product is simple Ø Customers are price sensitive Ø Consumers have high product knowledge Ø Switching costs are low Ø Availability of existing substitute products Plenty of choice of several technologies and other communication means available, enhanced the buyers power. Threat of Substitute Products There are many substitutes available in market. In case of unsatisfactionwith any of the feature customers can easily switch to the other because he/she has the almost exact or the same kind of substitutes. Many of the substitute products and services have emerged in voice, data and entertainment in telecom due to the technological breakthroughs. Switching power is high in telecom sector characterize by high technological developments and fast availability of alternative substitutes. Some of these are more convenient and offer far greater value to the consumer and have diminished the importance of traditional fixed line phones. Substitutes include Broadband, Wireless broadband, DigitalTv, IP Telephony, Mobile phones, Satellite, Email, and Instant Messaging etc. Rivalry among Competitors Due to growth opportunities and government focus on the telecom sector, there is a strong likelihood that competition will gradually increase as new firms enter the industry. there are many existing competitors of world call. The intensity among current rivals is intense and they are mostly competing on technological bases to create competitive advantages. Industry rivalry has become extremely intense with the emergence of new competing firms leading to price cuts across the industry. Ø Companies can only grow by stealing market share away from competitors. Ø Telecom industry with a very high growth. Ø Advertising intensity and spending are very high. SWOT ANALYSIS Strengths Technical infrastructure HFC-cable Product range Working in major cities Reputation Balanced sales Reliable wireless broadband Weaknesses High dependence on Voice segment Weak marketing Lacking a proper long-term strategy Weak brand positioning Less focus on short-term profitability Infrastructure varies from location to locations ERP implementation taking too long Opportunities Demand increased for backhaul network Cross-sell in major cities Increased demand for LDI and Broadband Privatization of government telecom projects PTA delayed 3G licenses Threats Economy instability CaTV operators alliance Threat by WiMax or other 4G technologies Government policies Increased consumer churn rate Heavy Price competition SWOT Matrix BCG Matrix Core Competencies Analysis The core competences that we have analyzed are Strong Dark Fiber Largest (hybrid fiber coaxial) HFC/Cable Operator (CATV, IOC, VoIP/MSAN Telephony) in Pakistan. Premium WLL and LDI operator in Pakistan. Specific Specialties Worldcall has taken the lead in introducing innovative telecommunication services in Pakistan: Supervised Payphones business model in Pakistan which is now being followed by many other operators largest fixed line payphone infrastructure. The first company to introduce prepaid calling card services in the country. Worldcall developed the first ever broadband HFC convergence Infrastructures in Pakistan the only operator in Pakistan and one of the few in the region to provide a triple play (CATV, broadband internet, telephony) Worldcall was the first operator in Pakistan to commission a state of the art next generation network (â€Å"NGN†) covering long distance international (â€Å"LDI†) inbound and outbound, local loop (â€Å"LL†) / wireless local loop (â€Å"WLL†) telephony services. This is a fully converged architecture enabling wireless solutions and hybrid fiber coaxial (HFC) telephony. Strategies Undertaken at: Corporate level:- As the other firms have strategies, WorldCall also has strategies at different levels. In corporate level strategies they basically discuss the current business status as well as the future of the current business. Then they decided in meetings, that in which sector they have to add something and in which sector they want to remove something. They are mainly concerned with: What kind of businesses they want themselves in? How they should manage all sectors or businesses? Types of diversifications they are following Related Business Diversification WorldCall mainly focus in Related Business Diversification. As many good and effective service of WorldCall the broadband service of WorldCall has good growth and opportunity. In this same line of business they diversify their business and there diversification is very much effective for them. They are introducing new and new things in this same line of business that have so many opportunities now a day in Pakistan. WorldCall has made its place in the current market by offering several and unique services. People want now a days some modernized services and WorldCall is properly working to promote these kinds of services. Some of the services are as follows (Video on Demand, cable TV, internet over cable). Currently the Company has several ongoing projects like HFC cable, Point-To-Point corporate broadband services, VSAT (satellite broadband) and DigitalTV which are in the different phases of roll out, all aimed at provisioning of sophisticated data and video services. Reasons for re lated diversification:- To reduce the risk!!! High Compatibility with technical infrastructure!!!!! Support some losses in other segments!! Defensive Strategy WorldCall in September 2009 completed the divesture of its foreign subsidiary WorldCall Lanka. They thought that this should be no more in their business. Forward Integration Although in a very poor state WorldCall is using Franchising as their forward integration strategy, however they do not have much control on their franchises. Product / Service Portfolio Management WorldCall has successfully introduced True Video-On-Demand technology. They have also started WorldCall Wireless Broadband with EVDO technology in the product portfolio. Another very effective service was pay phones and in 2009 officially phased out. Product Development Strategy The product development strategies are one of the most important strategies that should be in business if you want to survive in the market or in the business world. Worldcall is also using product development strategies as it involves development of telecom services and products. They have first mover advantage in CDMA2000 based EVDO wireless broadband. CDMA2000 represents a family of ITU-approved, IMT-2000 (3G) standards and includes CDMA2000 1X and CDMA2000 1xEV technologies. They deliver increased network capacity to meet growing demand for wireless services and high-speed data services. CDMA(code division multiple access) is the fastest growing wireless technology and it will continue to grow at a faster pace than any other technology. It is the platform on which 2G and 3G advanced services are built. Market Development Strategy In market development strategy you have to develop your market, worldcall has developed its market after making analysis. For example WorldCall EVDO Wireless Broadband was initially launched in Karachi followed by Lahore to other major cities including Gujranwala, Faisalabad, Multan and to inclusively to 50 major cities of Pakistan. Same is the expansion of Cable TV service to major cities of Pakistan. Business level strategies WorldCall offers many services under than head of 3 Major Business Segments WorldCall Data WorldCall Voice WorldCall Entertainment WorldCall Data (EVDO Wireless Broadband) WorldCall is following differentiation strategy for WorldCall EVDO wireless because the size of market is large and the product is differentiated for its performance and mobility. WorldCall Voice (LDI Services) WorldCall is following cost-leadership strategy in LDI because of intense and dynamic price competition in LDI market WorldCall Entertainment (Video On Demand) WorldCalls relatively new service is using â€Å"Focus-Value Strategy† because the target market is very small and product offers high degree of control with respect to traditional cable TV. MARKET ANALYSIS Telecom Sectors according to PTA : The Pakistan Telecommunications Authority (PTA) has forced the incumbent fixed-line and broadband operatorPakistan Telecommunication Company Ltd (PTCL) to enter a formal interconnection agreement with rival operators in the xDSL broadband market. The broadband operators, many of which are small and privately owned, have petitioned for reasonable access to PTCLs fixed-line network to help them reduce costs and offer more competitive tariffs. BMI(Business Monitor International) has consistently identified cost as being the single largest barrier to growth in the Pakistani broadband market. In India, where the government is actively pushing for growth, broadband services are available for US$8 per month. In Pakistan however, such services average US$16 per month. With the countrys mobile operators electing to deploy wireless broadband mainly in urban areas, customers in many smaller population centres have little or no high-speed access to the internet. Broadband Growth Now Possible

Monday, January 20, 2020

Personal Narrative- Using Art to Escape Boredom Essay -- Personal Narr

Quite often different people I come across commend me on my creative ability to draw and paint. The observer's comments usually include the question "Where did you learn how to draw like that?" I normally tell them some generic answer like "a lot of practice, " but truthfully my response should be "in my miserably boring childhood." However I usually refrain from being that honest to either avoid a weird look or to avoid a lengthy explanation like the one that follows. Compared to some of the horrible stories of child abuse I've heard, my childhood was a Walt Disney fairytale, but in my own eyes I was an unhappy kid. I was born in 1972, which is the Chinese Year of the Rat (the rat's Chinese characteristic is to scavenge for survival, which is also a part of my personality). From old pictures, my fragmented memories, and tales told by my grandma Mildred, I was close to my parents during my first six or seven years, especially my dad. My dad, Richard, was employed straight out of college as an Aerospace engineer with the Logicon Corporation (where he still works to day). He married my mom, Loretta, (who also became an Aerospace engineer for Logicon) seven years before I was born. My parents fought almost every night as far back as I can remember, and I can still recall covering my ears with a pillow to escape their bickering. I've always sort of believed that it was my mom's fault, possibly because her voice was always the loudest screech I c ould hear. I know the blame should rest equally between them, but my mother was always so demanding and emotional while my dad was a quiet man who was able to control his anger unless really pushed. I think she was used to a lot of emotions in her past and would intentionall... ...e, I was already set into an isolated lifestyle. I could never get back to the family closeness I had felt as a small child, and since I never grew up with anyone I went to school with, I didn't have much in common with them. Out of my well-developed personality as a loner I became a talented (so I'm told) artist in an effort to self entertain and distract me from my lonely life. Although I never had any imaginary friends growing up, I did have an imaginary world, in which I built with Legos and drew with pictures. These imaginary worlds I escaped to from my boring (poor little rich girl) childhood, not only comforted me but allowed me to develop the creative skills necessary to be an artist. From some people's definition my childhood may not have come close to miserable, but to a sheltered twelve-year-old there is nothing more miserable than being bored and alone.

Sunday, January 12, 2020

The Best Experience of My Life

One of my favorite family traditions is summer vacation. Every summer without fail we go on vacation, and we stay there for at least a week. For the past five years we have been going to Disney World with our family that lives in Los Angeles. He is my cousin Ricardo, he lives with his wife and his 1-yearold daughter. I like them because they’re nice, cool and funny. It has turned into a tradition and we all love to be together and have a good time. Every year when we go they greet us in such a way they make you feel like home. Once we’re there and our vacation starts we just forget about everything and relax for a week. We have been going on vacation with our cousins for so long, for a very good reason. It is because everyone gets along. My mom and dad, Ricardo and his wife Mari have a very good relationship. Ricardo my cousin, who is 30, is my cousin and my friend and we get along great. My sister Susan, who is 25, and Mari, who is 27, also get along very well. This works out great because we are all old enough to go out and do our own thing without getting the parents too much involved. Since most of the fun things to do are located right near the hotels we stay at any random hotel. We rarely need to ask them for a ride anywhere, so everyone goes their way and it turns into a great vacation for all of us. We have been going to Disney World together for as long as I can remember. We know the place inside and out. Where all the best rides are, which park is the best. It even got so bad that we knew what time the lines for each ride was shortest. Disney World always comes out with some kind of a new ride or show each year . All the characters are the same but they’re always happy and cheering for the little kids. So it doesn’t gets boring, that is what mostly keep us continuing coming back for more year after year. We headed for the food court because we were all very hungry. All I had eaten in the entire day was water a sandwich and a piece of gum . It was getting late and we hurried because we planned to go to the rides last. When we arrived at the restaurant me and my sister ordered a gigantic hamburger, my mom and dad fish, and my cousin and his wife chicken. When we finish we were all very satisfied and we headed for a little fun. We saw some lights in the far end and we followed them. We arrived at a show it was called the electrical parade and it was really cool. So we went down there last summer and it was a big vacation for all of us. I know it was more of an children’s vacation which but it was very fun and we all loved. In my opinion we are a little too old for Disney World but it was my favorite vacation. My favorite part was when we went to the rides and got on a rollercoaster. My sister tried not to vomit but I guess she had a weak stomach and vomited all over my dad. Unfortunately for my dad, he was on the same cart and he vomited too. When it all was over and we were in a hotel we joked about the vomit and laughed really hard. We shouldn’t had eaten right before going into the rollercoaster.

Saturday, January 4, 2020

Profile of Enheduanna, Priestess of Inanna

Enheduanna is the earliest author and poet in the world that history knows by name. Enheduanna (Enheduana) was the daughter of the great Mesopotamian king, Sargon of Akkad. Her father was Akkadian, a Semitic people. Her mother may have been Sumerian. Enheduanna was the appointed by her father to be priestess of the temple of Nanna, the Akkadian moon god, in the largest city and center of her fathers empire, the city of Ur. In this position, she would also have traveled to other cities in the empire.  She also apparently held some civil authority, signaled by the En in her name. Enheduanna helped her father solidify his political power and unite the Sumerian city-states by merging the worship of many local city goddesses into the worship of the Sumerian goddess, Inanna, raising Inanna to a superior position over other deities. Enheduanna wrote  three hymns to Inanna which survive and which illustrate three quite different themes of ancient religious faith. In one, Inanna is a ferocious warrior goddess who defeats a mountain even though other gods refuse to help her. A second, thirty stanzas in length, celebrates Inannas role in governing civilization and overseeing the home and children. In a third, Enheduanna calls on her personal relationship with the goddess for help in regaining her position as priestess of the temple against a male usurper. The long text that tells the story of Inanna is believed by a few scholars to be mistakenly attributed to Enheduanna but the consensus is that it is hers. At least 42, perhaps as many as 53, other hymns survive that are attributed to Enheduanna, including three hymns to the moon god, Nanna, and other temples, gods, and goddesses. Surviving cuneiform tablets with the hymns are copies from about 500 years after Enheduanna lived, attesting to the survival of the study of her poems in Sumer.  No contemporary tablets survive. Because we dont know how the language was pronounced, we cannot study some of the format and style of her poems. The poems seem to have eight to twelve syllables per line, and many lines end with vowel sounds. She also uses repetition of sounds, words, and phrases. Her father ruled for 55 years and appointed her to the high priestess position late in his reign.  When he died and was succeeded by his son, she continued in that position. When that brother died and another succeeded him, she remained in her powerful position.  When her second ruling brother died, and Enheduannas nephew Naram-Sin took over, she again continued in her position.  She may have written her long poems during his reign, as answers to parties that rebelled against him. (The name Enheduanna is also written as Enheduana. The name Inanna is also written as Inana.) Dates:  about 2300 BCE - estimated at 2350 or 2250 BCEOccupation:  priestess of Nanna, poet, hymn writerAlso Known as:  Enheduana, En-hedu-AnaPlaces:  Sumer (Sumeria), City of Ur Family Father: King Sargon the Great (Sargon of Agade or Akkad, ~2334-2279 BCE) Enheduanna: Bibliography Betty De Shong Meador. Inanna, Lady of Largest Heart: Poems of the Sumerian High Priestess Enheduanna. 2001.Samuel N. Kramer, Diane Wolkstein. Inanna: Queen of Heaven and Earth. 1983.