Compare and Contrast the Classical and Positivist School

Compare and contrast the ideas of Classical criminologist (e. g. Beccaria and Bentham) with those of the early Positivist (e. g. Lombroso, Ferri Garofolo). IntroductionDuring the mid to late seventeenth century explanations of crime and punishment were embraced by many philosophers Thomas Hobbs (1588-1679), John Locke (1632-1704), and Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1712-1778) and such theorist as Beccaria (1738), an Italian who was highly recognised by his great success through his essay ’Dei delitti e delle pene’ (On Crimes and Punishment) publicised in translations of 22 languages, effectively leaving huge impressions on the legal thoughts on members of the European and US society (Hopkins Burke 2009), developing the theory of ‘Classical criminology’ and Lombroso (1835) an Italian psychiatrist and a physician who brought forth the theory of the ‘Positivist’s criminology’. This essay will present the two contrasting theories within criminology, these are ‘the Classical’ and ‘the Positivist’ theory of criminology, presenting a brief introduction to each school of thought with the theories and their theorist, comparisons will drawn presenting contrasts to each theory’s principle, with their methodological, scientific and philosophical approaches to crime, with the same aim to reduce and control crime. Hale,C. ,et al (2005 p. 62).The school of thought ‘Classical criminology’ developed during the times of enlightenment through the ideas of a theorist named Cesare Beccaria (1738-94), who studied crimes, criminal behaviour and punishments, with beliefs that those who commit crime hold responsibility for themselves and are uninfluenced by external factors building the foundations for other successful proponents and advocates such as Cesare Lombroso (1836-1909), an Italian psychiatrist aspirant who presented theoretical explanations to crime and criminality though scientific methodolo gy adapting the contrasting theory of the positivist Contrastingly, the positivist school believed that the decisions people make when committing a crime are principally affected by ‘means' out of their control. These ‘means' that affect an individual's condition to make rational decisions can be based on physical, that is for example their race, social, such as weak social bonds at school or the amily, biological, that is having genetic abnormalities and psychological factors such as mental health disorders (Pond p. 23).. Through Beccarias’ observational studies witnessed many discrepancies within the government and public affairs, and ostracized the inhumanity and inequality shown to individuals within society, where the punishment of crimes were judged on the social status of an individual (Hopkins Burke 2001). Beccaria believed the ‘Criminal as Calculator’ highlighting the importance that every criminal is an individual and is aware of what is goo d from bad, what is right from wrong, understanding definitions of criminal behaviour in society therefore each individual is competent n the calculations that he or she makes, presenting the notion of ‘Free will Choice’ and the ‘Hendonistic Calculas’ principle where the distinct actions of an individual are measured through a pleasure and pain scale, with this Beccaria made further contributions towards Bentham’s theory of Ulitiarianism (which is based on the assumption that the ultimate aim of all human activity is happiness), disputing that creating new legislations indicating that a clear law should set out which is easily deciphered by its societal members to understand and set by legislators, Beccaria views that the prevention of crime is better than the punishment, however, punishment must be dealt with swiftly not limiting or exceeding what is necessary for the prevention and deterrence of crime, therefore resulting in the greater happiness o f the majority (McLaughlin and Muncie, 2006), however there should be impartial judges fixing strict punishments in proportion to the seriousness of the crime, for example, petty crimes and theft should be dealt with fixed fines and penalties and more serious crimes administered with corporal punishment and labour (Hopkins Burke, 2009).With this Beccaria developed further studies within the ‘Social contract’ theory, the voluntary agreement of the members of an organised society and its government securing mutual protection and welfare regulating the relation among its members, explaining that the previous methods of torture through capital punishment was unnecessary, he deemed these barbaric and inhumane, through this Beccaria began developing ideas that the crime itself should be dealt with efficiently not the criminal, thus the individual should be penalised for the crime committed. Each and every individual member of society whether an abiding member or criminal has equal rights and this always remains.Beccaria’s classical school of thought brought about scholars Bentham (1748) an English juror and philosopher who defensively argued that punishment should be a deterrent for criminals, that penalties be fixed to inflict the sum of pain in surfeit of the pleasure that had derived from the criminal act (Hale, Hayward Wahidin and Wincup, 2005) and Howard (1726) who was influential upon Prison reform (1779), However crime and criminal behaviour continuing to present itself still necessitated explanations as to why crime was still on the uprise Lombroso provided foundations for many other proponents such Ferri (1856), a biologist who wrote a new penal code for Mussolini which was instantly revoked due to his positivist approach and Garofolo (1852). Conclusion References Hopkins Burke, R. (2009) An Introduction to Criminological Theory, (3rd ed. ) Cullompton, Devon: Willan Publishing Hale, C,. Hayward, K,. Wahidin, A and Wincup, E. (2005) Crimi nology, Great Britain: Oxford University Press

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Carrier Intelligence Report Deutsche Post DHL March 2013 Table of contents Key financial figures Key stakeholder figures Macro environment Market & consumers 3 4 5 6 Corporate & media Governance & strategy Quarterly performance Corporate performance Business units 7 8 9 10 11 â€Å"Thanks to our presence in the world’s growth markets, the DHL divisions performed particularly dynamically in financial year 2012 and played a key role in increasing our consolidated revenue† Dr.Frank Appel, CEO Operations Human resources Corporate responsibility Acquisitions & divestments Product launches 12 13 14 15 16 Key press releases Outlook & targets 17 19 Key financial figures Express division boosts revenue by 9. 5% in 2012 Income Statement Total revenue EBIT margin Net profit margin Staff costs to revenue ratio Balance Sheet Total non-current assets Total current assets Total quity Total non-current liabilities Total current liabilities Current ratio Return on capital employed Geari ng ratio Cash flow Net cash flow from operating activities Net cash flow from investing activities Net cash flow from financing activities Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents Revenue by division Mail Parcels & Express Logistics & Freight EBIT by division Mail Parcels & Express Logistics & Freight 2010 53,605. 0 3. 4% 4. 9% 31. 0% 2011 54,879. 0 4. 4% 2. 3% 30. 5% 2012 57,680. 0 4. 6% 3. 1% 30. 8% Change 5. 1% 0. 2 0. 9 0. 3 LCU, m % % % LCU, m LCU, m LCU, m LCU, m LCU, m % % 24,493. 13,270. 0 10,696. 0 13,844. 0 13,223. 0 1. 00 7. 5% 56. 4% 21,225. 0 17,183. 0 11,199. 0 8,587. 0 18,622. 0 0. 92 12. 3% 43. 4% 21,832. 0 12,289. 0 12,164. 0 9,332. 0 12,625. 0 0. 97 12. 4% 43. 4% 2. 9% -28. 5% 8. 6% 8. 7% -32. 2% 0. 05 – LCU, m LCU, m LCU, m LCU, m 1,927. 0 8. 0 (1,651. 0) 284. 0 2,371. 0 (1,129. 0) (1,547. 0) (305. 0) (203. 0) (1,697. 0) 1,199. 0 (701. 0) – LCU, m LCU, m LCU, m 13,822. 0 10,788. 0 26,707. 0 13,877. 0 11,309. 0 27,578. 0 13,874. 0 12,378. 0 29,209. 0 0. 0% 9. 5% 5. 9% IPC Statistical Database LCU, m LCU, m LCU, m 148,066. 0 88,384. 0 614. 0 147,434. 0 85,496. 0 802. 146,923. 0 84,623. 0 928. 0 – Source: Deutsche Post DHL annual reports 2010-2012, IPC analysis Note: Change represents year-on-year development from 2011 3 IPC Carrier Intelligence Report – Deutsche Post DHL Key stakeholder figures Share price up by almost 40% over 2012 Shares Share price, year-end Earnings per share Human resources Average full-time equivalents Average part-time employees Women in management Absenteeism rate EOS response rate Total employee satisfaction Employee engagement Customer index Business customer satisfaction Consumer satisfaction Sustainability Total CO2 emissions LCU LCU 010 12. 09 2. 10 2011 11. 88 0. 96 2012 16. 6 1. 37 Change 39. 7% – % % % 421,274 63,126 17. 0% 7. 4% 79. 0% 73. 0 67. 0 423,348 65,322 17. 6% 7. 4% 80. 0% 76. 0 n/a 428,287 62,523 18. 5% 7. 6% 80. 0% 76. 0 n/a 1. 2% -4. 3% 0. 9 0. 2 0. 0 0. 0 n/a n/a n/a 95. 0 n/a 96. 0 1. 0 t 28,400,000 28,200,000 n/a Retail network Wholly-owned retail outlets Contracted retail outlets Delivery performance Domestic letter quality performance (D+1) Domestic letter quality USO requirement (D+1) Domestic parcel quality performance Domestic parcel expected business-day delivery Domestic letter and parcel ratesStandard letter, 0-20g Standard letter, 20-50g Economy parcel, 2-3kg 2 19,998 2 19,998 n/a n/a % % % % 95. 4% 80% n/a n/a 95. 4% 80% n/a n/a n/a 80% n/a n/a 0. 0 â‚ ¬ â‚ ¬ â‚ ¬ 0. 55 0. 90 6. 90 0. 55 0. 90 6. 90 0. 55 0. 90 6. 90 0. 0% 0. 0% 0. 0% Source: Deutsche Post DHL annual reports 2010-2012, IPC analysis Note: Change represents year-on-year development from 2011 4 IPC Carrier Intelligence Report – Deutsche Post DHL Germany: macro environment Low unemployment and higher wages will lift economy in 2013 Economics †¢ †¢ †¢ †¢ †¢ †¢ †¢ % 4% 2% 0% -2% -4% -6% 07 08 09 10 11 Infl ation 12 13 14 15 16 17 Trade Exports: â‚ ¬1,034,140. 5m (? 8. 0%) 1. France 9. 6% 2. United States 6. 9% 3. Netherlands 6. 4% 4. China 6. 1% 5. United Kingdom 6. 0% Machinery & transport equipment, chemicals and food, drink & tobacco Demographics †¢ †¢ †¢ †¢ †¢ †¢ †¢ †¢ †¢ 10% 8% 6% 4% 2% 0% 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 Unemployment rate GDP, constant prices: â‚ ¬2,436,330m GDP, current prices: â‚ ¬2,570,080m GDP per capita: â‚ ¬29,729. 4 (? 3%) GDP per capita (PPP-adjusted): â‚ ¬25,756. 3 (? 0. %) GDP related to agriculture: 1% GDP related to industry: 26% (? 4 percentage points) GDP related to service: 73% (? 4 percentage points) 348,672 km2 81,770,000 inhabitants (? 0. 2%) 234. 5 inhabitants per km2 Median age: 44. 9 years (2nd) Corruption perception: 8. 0 (? 0. 1) 39. 9m households Broadband subscribers: 31. 6% Urban population: 73. 8% Employed population: 50. 2% Imports: â‚ ¬880,951. 0m (? 9. 7%) 1. Netherlands 12. 9% 2. France 7. 6% 3. China 7. 1% 4. Belgium 6. 2% 5. Italy 5. 4% Machinery & transport equipment, chemicals and mineral fuels & lubricants Real GDP growthEconomic outlook The German economy is expected to recover from a weak end to 2012 with growth from the first quarter of 2013. With exports projected to recover and retail sales experiencing a welcome recovery, estimated GDP growth ranges from 0. 6 to 1. 3% in 2013 (2014: 1. 5 to 2. 4%). Unemployment is currently at its lowest for two decades, with business facing a shortage of skilled labour. Pay increases of up to 6. 5% awarded in 2012 should bolster consumer sentiment through to 2014. The healthy outlook is expected to generate improved public finances, turning the federal budget deficit to surplus in 2013.Source: The economist – Pocket World in Figures 2012 Edition, IMF, Bloomberg, ITC Trade Map, CIA World Factbook, ITU, Transparency International, IPC analysis Note: Brackets represent year-on-year development from 2010 or world ranking 5 IPC Carrier Intelligence Report – Deutsche Post DHL Germany: market & consumers Increasing number of consumers purchasing online Logistics market (bn T-km) Inland waterways 550 500 450 400 350 300 250 200 150 100 50 0 Financial services market (â‚ ¬bn) Road 9,000 -8% 8,000 7,000 6,000 -9% 5,000 4,000 3,000 2,000 1,000 0 Assets, all banks +11% Commentary Rail 2007 2008 2009 2010 2007 2008 009 2010 2011 According to the latest available figures, while German road freight grew by only 1. 8% in 2010 to 313bn Tonnekilometres (T-km), rail and waterways each expanded by around 12% to 107 and 62bn T-km respectively. Bank-owned assets increased by 11% over the fiveyear period to â‚ ¬8. 46tn. Household consumption grew by 1. 5% in 2011 after correcting for inflation, fuelling a German retail market which has remained steady despite the crisis in the Eurozone. The proportion of surveyed consumers purchasing online grew by 6 percentage points (p. p. ) in 20 11 to 54%, and average growth since 2002 has been above 4 p. . Broadband penetration seems to be reaching a plateau, with an increase of half a p. p. in 2011. Consumption expenditure Private final consumption expenditure, growth 2. 0% Online purchasing habits Last online purchase in the last 3 months Last online purchase more than a year ago / never ordered 100% Digitisation Internet users Broadband subscribers 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% 1. 5% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 1. 0% 0. 5% 0. 0% -0. 5% 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011Source: Eurostat, ITU, OECD, IPC analysis Note: T-km=Tonne-kilometres, representing the transport of one tonne of goods (including packaging and weight of transport units) over a distance of one kilometre. p. p. = percentage points 6 IPC Carrier Intelligence Report – Deutsche Post DHL Germany: corporates & media Newspaper ad market con tinues to decline but remains largest medium Forbes Global 2000 Media spend (â‚ ¬m) -4% Top 10 advertisers 1. Procter & Gamble Media-Saturn-Holding Ferrero Aldi Unilever L'Oreal Axel Springer Lidl Edeka 2010 2011 2012 +5% +27% 0% 2. 3. 4. 5,943 5,839 5,715 3,885 3,954 4,071 4,160Top 5 by revenue 17 Volkswagen Group (Auto & Truck Manufacturers) 409 E. ON (Electric Utilities) 37 Daimler (Auto & Truck Manufacturers) 50 Allianz (Diversified Insurance) 50 Siemens (Conglomerates) 3,465 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 3,488 3,461 Top 5 by profits 17 Volkswagen Group (Auto & Truck Manufacturers) 50 Siemens (Conglomerates) 74 BASF (Diversified Chemicals) 37 Daimler (Auto & Truck Manufacturers) 61 BMW Group (Auto & Truck Manufacturers) Top 5 by market value 50 Siemens (Conglomerates) 227 SAP (Software & Programming) 74 BASF (Diversified Chemicals) 17 Volkswagen Group (Auto & Truck Manufacturers) 37 Daimler (Auto & Truck Manufacturers) 4% +10% 692 706 719 +8% 766 797 827 3,067 3,473 75 79 Cinema 82 10. Volk swagen Group Magazines Internet TV Newspapers Radio Outdoor Media review & outlook All digital media will gain share as they become more and more important for advertisers. The growth in the smartphone market and the implementation of full-video ads in websites will lead to increased budgets. Magazines and newspapers in particular will have a different position in the future as a lot of information and entertainment is provided by internet sites.Along with digital media, cinema, outdoor and TV helped to drive German ad market in 2012. Source: www. forbes. com/global2000, ZenithOptimedia Western Europe Market & Mediafact 2011, ZenithOptimedia Advertising Expenditure Forecasts December 2011, IPC analysis Note: Forbes Global 2000; numbers under top 5 represent global ranking 7 IPC Carrier Intelligence Report – Deutsche Post DHL Governance & strategy â€Å"The provider, investment and employer of choice in its market† www. dp-dhl. com Chairman of the Board Prof. Dr.Wulf vo n Schimmelmann Chairman 2009Born 1947 Other board positions: †¢ Accenture †¢ Thomson Reuters Chief Executive Officer Dr. Frank Appel CEO 2008Born 1961 Ownership 25. 5% state owned KfW Bank 74. 5% freely floating Organisation Previous positions: †¢ Managing Director, DP †¢ Partner, McKinsey Corporate Centre Deutsche Post DHL Vision & strategy Vision †¢ To remain The Post for Germany as well as The Logistics Company for the world Chairman of the Board of Management Dr. Frank Appel Finance, Global Business Services Lawrence Rosen Personnel Angela TitzrathStrategy †¢ Strong divisional focus: strategic priorities are individually set for the Mail, Express, Global Forwarding / Freight and Supply Chain divisions †¢ Group-wide initiatives: the new commercial organisation ‘Customer Solutions & Innovation' provides customers seeking solutions from across DHL divisions with easier access to services †¢ Unified corporate culture: corporate responsib ility initiatives under the motto of ‘Living Responsibility' focus on protecting the environment, disaster management and championing education Divisions Deutsche Post DHL Mail Jurgen Gerdes Express Ken AllenGlobal Forwarding, Freight Roger Crook Supply Chain Bruce Edwards Source: www. dp-dhl. com, Deutsche Post DHL annual report 2012 8 IPC Carrier Intelligence Report – Deutsche Post DHL Quarterly performance Q4 2012: Group revenue up 3% from Q4 2011; 7% increase for P Revenue and profitability +3% 15,000 14% 12% 10,000 5. 2% 5,000 4. 2% 4. 0% 10% 8% 4. 4% 4. 2% 6% 4% 2% 0 Q4 2011 Q1 2012 Q2 2012 EBIT margin Q3 2012 Q4 2012 0% Segment performance (â‚ ¬m) +3% +7% 8. 000 7. 000 6. 000 5. 000 4. 000 3. 000 2. 000 1. 000 0 Q4 2011 Mail Q1 2012 Parcels & Express Q2 2012 Logistics & Freight Q3 2012 Q4 2012 0%Total revenue, â‚ ¬m Volume Total international addressed mail Unaddressed admail 6,000 5,000 4,000 3,000 2,000 1,000 0 Q4 2011 Q1 2012 Q2 2012 Q3 2012 Q4 2012 Addr essed admail Priority or standard mail -4% Parcels and Express volume Parcels and Express 300 250 200 150 100 50 0 Q4 2011 Q1 2012 Q2 2012 Q3 2012 Q4 2012 +7% Commentary Consolidated revenue rose â‚ ¬451m (3. 2%) yearon-year to reach â‚ ¬14,577m in Q4 2012. EBIT margin remained steady compared to Q4 2011 but dipped slightly on the previous quarter. The Parcels & Express division saw robust revenue growth, up 7% year-on-year.The strong performance was attributable to a significant rise in volumes (see left). Logistics revenues also increased year-on-year, while Mail division revenue stabilised. Mail volumes were down 4% year-on-year, accelerated by divestments in the international mail segment (-19. 2%). Source: Deutsche Post-DHL annual and interim reports 2011-12, IPC analysis 9 IPC Carrier Intelligence Report – Deutsche Post DHL Corporate performance Higher revenues with continued increase in EBIT margin in 2012 Revenue and profitability 60,000 50,000 40,000 30,000 20, 000 10,000 0 2008 Total revenue 2009 EBIT margin 2010 Net profit margin 2011 2012 -1. % -2. 2% 0. 5% 4. 9% 3. 4% 0. 5% 2. 3% 4. 4% 3. 1% -16% +11% +2% +5% 7% 6% 5% 4% 3% 2% 1% 0% -1% -2% -3% Cash flow 203 4. 6% 1,697 1,199 3,123 Beginning of period Cash flow Operating activities Investing activities Financing activities Segment information 2012 (2008) 2% (2%) 23% (25%) Share price development 2012 (2008) 20. 0 Commentary Consolidated revenue increased by 5. 1% to â‚ ¬55,512m in financial year 2012, with positive currency effects accounting for around two-thirds of this increase. The proportion of consolidated revenue generated abroad grew to 69. 7%,. Changes in the portfolio reduced revenue by â‚ ¬216m.At â‚ ¬2,665m, EBIT was 9. 4% up on the prior-year figure. Compared to 2008, Logistics and freight divisions have grown relative to other units and now generate 53% of consolidated revenue (Mail: 23%). In 2012 the Group’s share price outperformed the DAX for the second year running. 30% (31%) 15. 0 53% (50%) 22% (25%) 70% (69%) 10. 0 15,000 10,000 5,000 5. 0 Mail Parcels & express Logistics & freight Postal retail Domestic revenue International revenue 0. 0 1/1/01 1/1/03 1/3/05 1/2/07 1/2/09 1/3/11 0 1/1/13 Share price, â‚ ¬ Traded volume Source: Deutsche Post DHL annual reports 2008-2012, IPC analysis 0 IPC Carrier Intelligence Report – Deutsche Post DHL Business units Improved profitability for P and Logistics & freight Mail â€Å"Deutsche Post DHL is Europe’s largest postal company. It offers all types of products and services to both private and business customers, physical, hybrid and electronic letters and merchandise to special services such as cash on delivery and registered mail† Mail division Revenue in 2012 was on par with 2011, reaching â‚ ¬13,972m despite three fewer working days, which however had a noticeably negative impact on transactional mail.Strong results in the Parcel Germany unit (+9. 4%) balanced declines in transactional and addressed advertising mail. EBIT reached â‚ ¬1,051m, 5. 1 % below the prior-year figure, and was reduced by â‚ ¬151m as a result of an additional VAT payment demanded by the German tax authorities. Overall market share declined from 63. 7% to 62. 7%. Revenue, â‚ ¬m 15,000 EBIT margin -3% 20% 15% 10% 5,000 5% 0% 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 Parcels & express â€Å"In the Express division, Deutsche Post DHL transport urgent documents and goods reliably and on time from door to door.The network spans more than 220 countries and territories, in which some 100,000 employees provide services for more than 2. 6m customers† Express division Excluding currency effects and the impact of a certain divestments in 2011, revenue increased by 6. 8% to â‚ ¬12,378m in 2012, a result still below precrisis levels. EBIT for the Express division however rose to a new high, reaching â‚ ¬1,108m (a margin of 8. 7%). The result was driven by revenue growth in all regions as well as one-time effects connected to restructuring provisions in the United States.Business trend was particularly dynamic in the Americas region, with revenue up by 20. 6% to â‚ ¬2,276m in 2012. Revenue, â‚ ¬m 14,000 12,000 10,000 8,000 6,000 4,000 2,000 0 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 EBIT margin -6% 20% 15% 10% 5% 0% -5% -10% -15% -20% Logistics & freight â€Å"With a wide range of coverage and comprehensive offering for transporting freight by air, sea or land, DHL is one of the leading global freight and logistics companies. The Supply Chain business provide contract logistics solutions along the entire supply chain† Global forwarding/freight division Revenue grew by 3. % including positive currency effects of â‚ ¬507m. EBIT in the division improved due to high gross profit margins and constantly increasing efficiency. Supply chain division Increased EBIT was driven by improved contract portfolio management and cost efficiencies, compensating for mar gin pressure and costs associated with new customers. DHL is the leader in a fragmented market with a share of 7. 8%. Revenue, â‚ ¬m 35,000 30,000 25,000 20,000 15,000 10,000 5,000 0 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 -5% 10% 5% 0% EBIT margin +8% 15% 10,000 0 Source: Deutsche Post DHL annual reports 2008-2012, IPC analysis 1 IPC Carrier Intelligence Report – Deutsche Post DHL Operations Year-on-year increase in P volume of almost 10% Mail volume International addressed mail Unaddressed admail 30. 000 25. 000 -12% 20. 000 15. 000 10. 000 5. 000 0 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 -7% Addressed admail Transactional mail Parcels & express volume +24% Commentary Transactional mail volumes fell by 3. 0% year-on-year with private customer volumes declining much more than business customer volumes. In the Dialogue Marketing business unit, total sales volumes declined slightly over the course of the year.Unaddressed advertising mail was up year-on-year, whilst addressed advertising mail declined. D ivestment of a bulk mail business in the Netherlands and domestic business in the UK resulted in a large drop in international mail volumes. The flourishing e-commerce business is the primary reason for this consistently strong growth in parcel volumes, up 9. 8% in 2012. By year-end, 42,8129 FTEs were employed in more than 220 countries and territories, 1. 1 % more than in 2011. The retail network was fully contracted and stable in 2011. 1. 000 900 800 700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 EmployeesAverage full-time equivalents -4% Employees per business unit 2012 (2008) 3% (3%) 0% +1% 34% (32%) 43% (40%) Retail network Wholly-owned retail outlets Contracted retail outlets +48% 20. 000 +1% 15. 000 0% 500. 000 400. 000 300. 000 -4% 10. 000 200. 000 100. 000 0 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 Mail Parcels & Express 20% (25%) Logistics & Freight Corporate 5. 000 0 2008 2009 2010 2011 Source: Deutsche Post DHL annual reports 2008-2012, IPC analysis 12 IPC Carrier Intelligence R eport – Deutsche Post DHL Human resources Significant increase in women in management since 2008 Part-time employees Average part-time employeesGender 2011 (2008) 2012 (2008) 80,000 70,000 60,000 50,000 40,000 30,000 20,000 10,000 0 2008 2009 2010 2011 -13% 18,5% (13. 5%) 36,7% (37. 7%) 63,3% (62. 3%) 81,5% (86. 5%) 2012 Women in total workforce Men in total workforce Women in management Men in management Absenteeism & staff turnover Staff turnover 2008 Absenteeism rate Satisfaction & engagement Employee satisfaction Commentary While the number of part-time employees employed by Deutsche-Post DHL has fallen by 13% since 2008, the proportion of women in the Group’s workforce dropped slightly over 2008-11 (the most recent data available).In terms of management, the company has seen an increase of five p. p. over the period, reaching 18. 5% in 2012. The company is committed to filling 25-30% of vacant management positions with women. Staff turnover fell significantly over 2009-11. Absenteeism continued to increase in 2012, reaching 7. 6%. Employee satisfaction has remained constant over the last three years. 2010 2009 2010 2011 2011 2012 2012 0% 2% 4% 6% 8% 10% 12% 14% 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 Source: Deutsche Post DHL annual reports 2008-2012, Deutsche Post DHL corporate social responsibility reports 2010-2011, IPC analysis 3 IPC Carrier Intelligence Report – Deutsche Post DHL Corporate responsibility Significant increase in the number of trainees hired Environmental responsibility â€Å"The primary focus of our environmental protection program GoGreen is to minimise our business operations’ greatest impact on the environment – CO2 emissions. We are also working to limit impacts where our business activities affect the environment in other ways† By the year 2020, the Group intends to improve the CO2 efficiency of own operations (Scope 1 & 2) and those of subcontractors (Scope 3) by 30% compared with 2007.In 2012, Scope 1 & 2 CO2 emissions were approximately 5. 4m tonnes (previous year: 5. 3m). Direct CO2 emissions rose slightly mainly due to the increased demand for air transport. Scope 3 emissions data for 2012 will be available upon the release of the CSR report in April 2013. CO2 emissions (t) CO2 emissions, scope 1&2 6,000,000 +31% 5,000,000 4,000,000 3,000,000 2,000,000 1,000,000 0 2009 2010 2011 2012 2010 2011 2012 +6% +2%Financial responsibility â€Å"We aim to strike a balance between our economic goals and society’s requirements by putting our experience and global presence to good use to help people and the environment† Net asset base (operating assets-operating liabilities) increased by â‚ ¬1,122m to â‚ ¬15,478m in 2012 due, in part, to the Group’s investments in software and IT systems and the purchase of freight aircraft as well as replacement and expansion investments in warehouses, sorting systems and vehicle fleet. A 42. 2% increase in net working capital was mainly attributable to the decline in liabilities and other items. Revenue per employee grew by 4% YOY.Employee value creation Revenue per employee +15% 140,000 120,000 100,000 80,000 60,000 40,000 20,000 0 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 -12% +2% +4% Social responsibility â€Å"Bundled under the motto â€Å"Living Responsibility†, our efforts focus on three areas: environmental protection (GoGreen), disaster management (GoHelp) and championing education (GoTeach)† Deutsche Post DHL aims to actively promote the diversity of its workforce and attract a wide range of applicants. Measures to improve work-life balance available to employees in Germany include support services such as back-up childcare facilities for last-minute and emergency childcare.In 2011 more than 75% of trainees were offered continued employment. The number of trainees has increased by 31% since 2008. Trainee headcount Trainees 5,000 4,500 4,000 3,500 3,000 2,500 2,000 1,500 1,000 500 0 Source: Deutsche Post DHL annual reports 2008-2012, Deutsche Post DHL corporate social responsibility reports 2010-2011, IPC analysis 14 IPC Carrier Intelligence Report – Deutsche Post DHL Acquisitions & divestments 2009- Acquisitions Year 2012 Company LuftfrachtsicherheitService GmbH Exel Saudia LLC All you need GmbH 2SFG Tag Belgium SA CC DE Sector Logistics DivestmentsYear 2012 Company Deutsche Postbank Group (remaining shares) DHL Express Canada Exel Transportation Services Inc. Exel Transportation Services Inc. Innogistics LLC Exel Delamode Logistics SRL Fulfilment Plus GmbH 4C Associates Ltd. DHL Container Logistics UK Ltd. Global Mail Services SAS Deutsche Postbank Group CC DE Sector Regional Focus: Acquisitions 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Region 4 3 3 3 Bank Germany US Rest of world 2012 2012 2012 2012 SA DE UK BE Logistics 2011 Mail Logistics Logistics 2011 CA Logistics CA Parcels Europe Business focus: Acquisitions US Logistics 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 2011 2012 20 11 2011 2011 intelliAd Media GmbH Adcloud GmbH Eurodifarm srl. Standard Forwarding llc Tag EquityCo Limited LifeConEx llc Post Logistics Australasia Polar Air Cargo Worldwide, Inc. DE DE IT US Information Information Logistics Logistics 2010 2010 US RO Logistics Logistics Area 1 10 2 Mail Information Financial services Other 2010 2009 2009 DE UK UK Warehouse Consulting Parcels & Express Logistics 2011 KY Logistics Effect on cash flow (â‚ ¬m) Shipping 100 2011 2011 US AU Logistics Logistics 2009 FR Mail 50 0 -50 -100 2010 Acquisitions 2011 Divestments 2012 009 US Logistics 2009 DE Bank Source: Deutsche Post DHL annual reports 2009-2012, IPC analysis Note: CC (country code) 15 IPC Carrier Intelligence Report – Deutsche Post DHL Product launches Innovations in parcels, freight forwarding and e-document management DHL Easy Return Product category Parcel return Description DHL Easy Return is a new parcel product introduced in September 2012 by DHL Global Mail, the DHL unit resp onsible for international mail and B2C parcels. Features includes software to create return labels via a web portal and Track & Trace functionalities.Retailers can now manage return volumes from almost all EU countries via a standardized process. Target group Retailers Read more Door-to-more Product category Freight forwarding Description In June 2012, DHL Global Forwarding, Freight, the air and sea freight specialist within Deutsche Post DHL, launched an intercontinental door-to-door distribution service from Asia-Pacific to Europe. Door-ToMore combines DHL's intercontinental air freight transportation capabilities with its European ground distribution network. Target group Suppliers Read more DHL Packstation mTANProduct category Parcel collection / security Description DHL Paket Deutschland introduced the mobile Transaction Number (mTAN) In October 2012 at all of its 2,500 parcel machines across Germany. The mTAN will allow users to pick up their items using a temporary code sent directly to their mobile, replacing the existing PIN code. Target group Parcel customers Read more DocWallet Product category E-document management Description Tablets and smartphones have become a fixture of modern life, being used more and more by people in their jobs. But until now, integrating mobile devices into a company's IT system has posed a security challenge.The DocWallet app is Deutsche Post's solution to this problem. Target group Business users Read more Source: www. dp-dhl. com Note: Where no English language webpage exists, hyperlinks above link to external translation. 16 IPC Carrier Intelligence Report – Deutsche Post DHL Key press releases 2012- 2013 Quarter 2 †¢ Manages vending machines in Switzerland Quarter 1 †¢ Improves flexibility for road freight services through mobile solution †¢ GoGreen carbon neutral feature added to DHL Express Envelope shipping option †¢ Improves carbon footprint with new multimodal service 012 Quarter 4 â₠¬ ¢ Deutsche Post and ADAC reviewing possible entry into German long-distance bus market †¢ DocWallet – The secure documents manager for the iPad †¢ First mechanized delivery site now running †¢ Issues three bonds worth a total of EUR 2. 0 billion †¢ Current level of globalisation still lower than precrisis peak †¢ Switches to Fitch Ratings †¢ Simplified authorization and more security for DHL PackstationQuarter 3 †¢ Razorfish to develop digital strategy †¢ Postal rates for 2013 approved †¢ Opens Energy Center in Houston, Texas †¢ Express unit announces annual general price increase for 2013 †¢ Launches European return service for online retailers †¢ Proposes rate increase for letters for 2013 †¢ DHL now delivering parcels to customer's outlet of choice in Germany †¢ 400 million euros invested in letter mail network †¢ DHL marks the start of a unique City Logistics project in China †¢ Acquires onl ine marketing specialist intelliAd †¢ Launches MyDHL to enhance customer experience †¢ DHL Vision Suite opened up at DHL Innovation Center †¢ Completes Postbank transaction †¢ Angela Titzrath to become Deutsche Post DHL's Board Member for Personnel †¢ State aid ruling of European Commission will not affect net profit Source: www. dp-dhl. com 17 IPC Carrier Intelligence Report – Deutsche Post DHL Key press releases 20112011 Quarter 4 †¢ Pay online with giropay – now available at DHL Checkout †¢ EU Commission praises SEPA migration in Germany †¢ Appoints new COO for DHL Global Forwarding †¢ Appoints new CEO for DHL Freight †¢ International award for Sustainability Report †¢ Cooperation with IBM on E-Postbrief †¢ Appoints new CCO for DHL 012 Quarter 2 †¢ Introduces new recall solution for the automotive industry †¢ Introduces new multi-modal solution from Asia to Europe †¢ German financial authorit ies decide on VAT payment †¢ Federal government demand for repayment of state aid set at EUR298 million †¢ European letter price survey for 2012: Standard letter in Germany still inexpensive compared to 29 other countries †¢ Corporate Responsibility Report 2011: improves CO2 efficiency index by two index points Quarter 1 †¢ DHL Vision Suite opened up at DHL Innovation Center †¢ Completes Postbank transaction †¢ Angela Titzrath to become Deutsche Post DHL's Board Member for Personnel †¢ State aid ruling of European Commission will not affect net profit Quarter 2 †¢ DHL expands service for the pharmaceutical sector †¢ European letter price survey for 2011 †¢ Roger Crook follows Hermann Ude as Board Member for DHL Global Forwarding, Freight †¢ DHL wins EUR 10. 6 million deal with KPMG and expands Singapore Aerospace Hub Quarter 1 †¢ European Enterprise Award for Deutsche Post DHL †¢ DHL Express with quality certification for all European and U. S. facilities †¢ Dedication to global data protection is a successQuarter 3 †¢ DHL acquires 100 per cent ownership of LifeConEx †¢ Extends board member mandate of CFO Rosen for another five years †¢ E-Postbrief to become part of Europe's largest corporate network †¢ Williams Lea acquires the world's largest independent marketing execution and production agency, Tag †¢ DHL provides CO2-neutral transport for all private customer parcels throughout Germany Source: www. dp-dhl. com 18 IPC Carrier Intelligence Report – Deutsche Post DHL Outlook & targets 2012- Outlook Strategic targets Deutsche Post DHL expects consolidated EBIT to reach between â‚ ¬2. 72. 95bn in financial year 2013, assuming the world economy and trade grows by approximately 3% and the economy picks up momentum as the year progresses The mail division is expected to contribute between â‚ ¬1. 1-1. 2bn to consolidated EBIT. Compared with the previous year , an additional improvement in overall earnings to between â‚ ¬2-2. 15bn in the DHL divisions is forecastUnder the direction of new Board Member for Human Resources, Angela Titzrath, the Group will aim to develop a global HR management system under the â€Å"One HR† programme The Group aims to maintain and improve its presence and growth potential in the emerging Economies of Brazil, Russia, India, China and Mexico (BRIC + M). The Group’s Board of Management receives regular updates on business performance in these countries In 2013 the Group plans to invest a maximum of â‚ ¬1. 8bn. In the coming years, the figure is expected to fall back to a normal level. The focus will continue to be on IT, machinery, transport equipment and aircraft. Crossdivisional capital expenditure is expected to decrease slightly in 2013.Investments will again be centred on our vehicle fleet and IT Finance: Group strategy calls for paying out 40 to 60% of net profits as dividends as a ge neral rule. At the AGM on 29 May 2013, a â‚ ¬0. 70 dividend per share proposal for financial year 2012 will be put to shareholders On 6 September 2012, KfW sold 60 million Deutsche Post shares. This was the first placement since 2006 and it reduced KfW’s stake to 25. 5%; free float increased to 74. 5% The German Federal Network Agency approved Deutsche Post’s request for an adjustment in postage rates for 2013. The price for a standard domestic letter weighing up to 20g rose from â‚ ¬0. 55 to â‚ ¬0. 58 on 1 January 2013 Source: www. dp-dhl. com, Deutsche Post DHL annual report 2012 19 IPC Carrier Intelligence Report – Deutsche Post DHLInternational Post Corporation â€Å"The Leader for Postal Industry Intelligence and Research† To be successful in the postal industry today, strategic decisions must be based on relevant and time-critical business intelligence. With a team of experienced managers and analysts specialising in industry intelligence a nd research, IPC is able to provide essential knowledge on trends affecting the strategic direction of the postal industry. IPC Carrier Intelligence reports provide critical intelligence on the business performance and strategies of 40 leading global postal and logistics operators. These reports can be downloaded from the Market Intelligence section at www. ipc. be. A range of member-only publications and online tools can be accessed by individuals working for IPC members. These include:Statistical Database An online tool allowing members to generate statistical reports according to a variety of criteria, including macro economic, market, postal financial and operational data Global Postal Industry Report An industry benchmark report providing a holistic and in-depth review and analysis of industry performance Focus on the Future Report A publically available IPC and BCG joint-publication that takes a detailed and in-depth look at the future prospects of the postal sector IPC Market Intelligence Global Monitor A quarterly report presenting detailed and up-to-date confidential information on domestic and international postal volume and revenue trends If you work for an IPC member and you are not already registered, please visit the member login page at our website. 20 IPC Carrier Intelligence Report – Deutsche Post DHL International Post Corporation Avenue du Bourget 44 1130 Brussels, Belgium Tel +32 (0)2 724 72 11 Fax +32 (0)2 724 72 32 www. ipc. be  © IPC 2013 Further IPC Carrier Intelligence Reports available at www. ipc. be

Letter to editor

After reading the article written by Christopher Stevens about educating Yorkshire I felt I should respond because, although Mr. Stevens clearly reflected upon the real life situations of the school, he still managed to draw attention to the negatives and form Ignorant conclusions whilst Including his Inconsiderate views. He sits back and crestless when It can be said that he must have gone to school what 20 years ago and that times have changed, teachers must know what they're doing otherwise they wouldn't have been given the job with such immense responsibility.While he continues to point fingers he ignores how incredible Mr. Burton and Mustards touching Journey has been as well as other uplifting moments in the show. Thrill Community Academy has several different types of characters that attend but in your article you have stereotyped all teenagers. You take some of the scenes from the show and blow them out of proportion and then use that to make assumptions about all teens.Don't you go out on the street and see ‘Ignorant' and ‘swaggered' out kids? Rather than generalizing you should pay close attention to the fact that schools are diverse, that the students and have their own little world, some would even call It their very own bubble. The first thing I'm going to talk about will be base. I think to achieve the perfect base you must go through some important steps prior to applying any makeup to ensure you get a flawless finish.Making sure your skin is clean, exfoliated and moisturizer is key, this will allow the foundation to actually sink in into the skin and make it look like your actual skin. But there's a step before that, and that's applying primer, it'll provide oil free hydration, minimize the appearance of pores and make sure your makeup lasts all day long. When applying foundation, the most Important thing to remember s that less Is more, this'll even out your skin tone and let your natural skin show through, this'll leave you looking luminous and Like your skin has a healthy glow.The next step Is concealed, the purpose Is already In the name and that's to conceal, It'll make dark circles and imperfections virtually disappear, as well as highlighting under the eyes and making you look more radiant and awake. Next go on to apply powder, this will leave you shine free and make sure your makeup doesn't slip and slide throughout the day.Brows I think brows are so important, they frame your face and add structure , there's arioso ways to fill in your brows, pencils, wax, powder and gel, my personal favorite is the had' brows kit, had stands for high definition , you get four powders in the kit, the colors range from light medium and dark, you should gravitate towards buying the kit according to the color of your hair, you get four powders, they are pigmented and creamy, this allows the shadow to glide through your eyebrows Eyes I think out of all makeup, eye makeup must be my most favorite, one because Its such a cre ative part and you can get really artistic In looks you can create. Negative apposed to the positives.

Motivational Theories Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Motivational Theories - Essay Example The X and Y theory The theory X and theory Y formulated by Douglas Mc Gregor in the year 1960 positions previous negative perceptions about employees (Theory X) against a positive outlook towards employees and mindset of individuals (Theory Y) eg: Theory X- People inherently dislike work. Theory Y - People view work as being as natural as play and rest. Motivator- Hygiene factors theory : The hygiene factors theory by Frederick Herzberg in the year 1966 is another path breaking concept which clearly listed the factors of job satisfaction and dissatisfaction. Most accurately explained as Motivator factors that increase job satisfaction and Hygiene factors whose absence can create job dissatisfaction. The essence of the theory is that hygiene factors are the essentials of any employee or an individual at work they are - Security, Salary, Supervision, Company policy, Working conditions and Peer relationship. On the other hand, motivator factors are - work itself, Responsibility, recognition, achievement, advancement and growth. However, the first two theories give a general insight about an individual's needs and perceptions to understand a human's psychology about work was the theory of Frederick Herzberg that clearly lists the requisites of any given job for an individual. The three needs theory -... The highlight of the theory is direct relation it draws to the relevance to the word "Motivation' or factors that motivate. In this case factors that motivate individuals to perform and succeed. The needs theory includes all factors that come from within an individual. Eg: Competitiveness, influence that one exerts on another, need for achievement, acceptance and friendship. Goal Setting theory and Equity theory: The goal setting theory by the Stacey Adams in the year 1965 states that specific goals set by any organization for an individual increases performance in the of sales the goal is monthly target of sale on products to be achieved. The theory further goes on to explain that acceptance of a difficult goal only results in higher performance, even when compared to a goal that is easily achievable. The equity theory is nothing but the simple equation that any individual draws between the efforts and rewards an individual is constantly trying to match both sides by reducing efforts or increasing the same depending on the rewards and recognition expected. Eg: If a sales representative sees the reward or recognition is receives after he meets the required monthly target is unequal to his effort or sincerity he is bound to under perform the following month. Expectancy Theory: This theory by Victor Vroom in the year 1964 aims to substantiate the motivation theory more accurately for any sales unit. Victor Vroom explains the theory in three simple questions: 1. How hard will I have to work - Effort 2. What is the reward - Reward 3. How attractive is the reward - Attractiveness of reward. Thus the above mentioned theories in one way of or the other help in understanding the various factors of

Development of a publishable paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Development of a publishable paper - Essay Example Methods A qualitative research methodology is employed for the purpose of the study. The common themes in the literature on the therapeutic relationships between the nurses and clients are identified. The study was administered on a sample target group (who were screened based on their experiences of having worked in mental healthcare) of nurses who work in the psychiatric and mental health care hospitals in and around Melbourne in Victoria Australia. A preliminary mailed questionnaire was used to eliminate nurses with no prior experiences in mental healthcare. A telephonic interview was also administered on these respondents to know their willingness to take part in the sample survey. Thus, the participants for the survey consisted of 40 nurses who worked in and around Melbourne in Victoria Australia with at least two years of working in mental healthcare. The questionnaire comprised of 8 interrelated questions most of which were open ended. Results and Conclusions The results of th e study confirmed the common themes identified in the literature review. While therapeutic relationships have been identified as very much significant by the participant nurses they expressed their concern over the inadequacy of ongoing staff training, the heavy work schedule and the problems associated with maintaining professional boundaries. The respondents regarded mutual trust, empathy, confidentiality and non-judgment, feelings of reciprocity and connectedness, and acceptance and understanding as the key factors of effective therapeutic alliance whereas respect, communication and interpersonal skills, and professional knowledge were complementary. On the other hand, the major crippling factors (that prevent effective therapeutic alliance with patients) identified by the respondents consisted of mistrust, breach of confidentiality, ego, lack of communication and interpersonal skills, and lack of professional knowledge. Introduction and Background The therapeutic alliance betwee n the nurse and the client assumes utmost significance in the mental healthcare setting as the patients are greatly in need of personal counseling, guidance and care. Nurses need to have professional knowledge and skills to establish effective therapeutic relationships with the clients and they should be specially trained in displaying caring attitudes and behaviors towards the clients. The ultimate aim of the therapeutic alliance is the physical and mental well-being of the clients and as such the therapeutic relationship should be â€Å"based on trust, respect, empathy and professional intimacy, and requires appropriate use of the power inherent in the care provider’s role† (College of Nurses of Ontario, 2009, p. 3). The five components of effective nurse-client relationships have been identified as â€Å"trust, respect, professional intimacy, empathy and power† (College of Nurses of Ontario, 2009, p. 3). Nurses who work as catalytic agents of change needs to have good communication as well as interpersonal skills and a thorough knowledge regarding the dynamics of the therapeutic relationship (McQueen 2000). It is also significant that the nurses are able to build rapport and trust with the patients (McQueen 2000), show trust and commitment (Morse

Critical Thinking English- A New Earth Chapters Eight and Nine Essay

Critical Thinking English- A New Earth Chapters Eight and Nine - Essay Example It is all about holding on and never about letting go. Therefore, even I myself can only hardly comprehend the meaning of letting go, especially on the spiritual level. Nevertheless, perhaps, what we human beings have not noticed is that the more we try to hold on to something – no matter how much we love and value it, the more fear we experience. Fear is a debilitating phenomenon and it is real. If fear reaches its maximum in us, we would not be able to function as good individuals anymore and we react with anger even towards that thing that we have always held on to. The only way therefore to enjoy our lives without the fear is to let go. The process of letting go begins with the acceptance of the inevitability of change. This mere acceptance may bring about negative feelings in us or even more fear at first. Nevertheless, it will definitely eventually bring us the inner peace that we have always been longing for. This peace is the realization that the material comes only se condary to the spiritual. We can always let go of the material so that we can let go of the fear. When we have let go of things and when we have let go of fear and when we are filled with great peace, it is only then that we realize that we are powerful. In fact, as what Rilke said in â€Å"Buddha in Glory,† â€Å"Now you feel how nothing clings to you/ your vast shell reaches into endless space/ and there the rich, thick fluids rise and flow/ illuminated in your infinite peace† (Rilke). From Chapter 9, the line that appealed to me the most was â€Å"Don’t let a mad world tell you that success is anything other than a successful present moment† (162). Success is fleeting, and it is sweet because it only happens at a specific moment and deep down we know that the happiness that success brings will not last long. The society we live in as well as our educational system and everything else around us and within

Christian Church Art Architecture Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Christian Church Art Architecture - Essay Example In fact, this is the building that I will attempt to effectively 'dissect' in order to ascertain to what extent it has been constructed from an amalgam of various styles as well as attempting to identify the particular styles in question. First, let us look at the details behind the design and construction of this building. The actual construction of this building began in 1851 and reached its completion some six years later. However, due to extensive damage, the building was reconstructed in the 1920s although the reconstruction remained true to the original design. The building was designed and built under the direction of Fr. John Cambiaso who was a Jesuit originating from Lyon in France. We learn that Fr. Cambiaso actually learnt the practice of architectural design during his stay in Spain and this gives us some clues behind his particular use of certain elements within the design. Because as we see from our first view of the church from the outside (fig. 1) it distinctly remind s us of those buildings that were produced under the Islamic and Moorish influences that were so predominant in the seventh and eighth centuries, especially in countries such as Persia, Egypt and Spain.(1) 2 Fig. 1 As we can see, the Moorish elements of this building are typical of how the designers let their imaginations play a little with both patterns and forms to produce designs that were almost dreamlike. However, another building that comes to mind here (especially with regards to the second level arches) is the Palace of the Doges of Venice that was built in the 14th century. It is from this that we learn that our particular church was in reality designed in a Venetian Gothic Style. It is then that we begin to notice the elements of this building that are so essential to the Gothic. In the words of the art historian Heinrich Wolfflin, we notice how in the gothic "†¦the vertical movement streams upwards without check and dissolves playfully at the top" (Wolfflin 60). We k now that the Gothic architects were particularly fond of intricate ornament and tracery and here we see examples of how, again in the words of Wolfflin, "[The Gothic] developed in the direction of ever slimmer and more pointed shapes, to a point of extreme exaggeration" (75). In fact, the Venetian Gothic Style was effectively revived during the 19th century. This revival was mainly down to the work of the British architectural critic, John Ruskin especially his book entitled The Stones of Venice (2). It was Ruskin who spoke of the lightness and soaring spaces of this style and, once inside the church, this is the first thing that strikes us. In fact, the massive height of the nave although typical of most churches in New Orleans is particularly stunning (fig 2) 3 Fig 2 The nave is lined with intricate arcading and 'triforium' windows so typically expansive enough for Gothic taste to permit huge amounts of natural light to swarm the interior. The arcading is layered on intricately de signed columns that incorporate the geometric designs so familiar within the Moorish style. There is also what is known as a Solomonic column (fig 3) that features a kind of corkscrew design. This style of column actually dates back to ancient Jerusalem and has become popularly used since because of its symbolic reference to the gates of paradise. Further adornments include chandeliers constructed of fine bronze, which again appear to be of Moorish style (fig 3). However, further

Nursing - Pain Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Nursing - Pain Management - Essay Example Cyclooxygenases Prostaglandin endoperoxide H synthase (commonly known as Cyclooxygenases) was purified in 1976 and cloned in 1988. This enzyme is the key catalytic protein in the synthesis of prostaglandins from arachidonic acid, resulting in pain and inflammation, and is subject to inhibition by non ­steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS). In 1991, several laboratories identified a second gene product with COX activity, now termed COX-2. It is clear now that both isoforms, COX-l and COX-2 are expressed in both peripheral tissues and several areas of the CNS (Prochazkova et al., 2006). Theories of Pain Gatchel, Polatin, and Kinney (1995) state that there are two prominent theories of pain: the traditional specificity theory of pain and the gate control theory of pain. The former, still widely taught, proposes that pain is a specific sensation and that the intensity of pain is proportional to the extent of tissue damage. This theory implies a fixed, straight-through transmission system from somatic pain receptors to a pain center in the brain (p.416). In 1965, Melzack and Wall proposed the gate control theory. This theory suggests that there are physiological and neural mechanisms in the body that can have an effect on the perception of the painful stimulus (Hawthorn & Redmond 2001). The theory postulates that there are two controls that affect the gate. ... This gating mechanism depends on the relative quantity of information being received over the larger fibers versus the smaller fibers. In essence, the two peripheral impulses interfere with each other to alter pain perception. The gate control theory has received the most recognition in the field of pain research (Gatchel, Polatin, and Kinney 416). Anatomy & Physiology The complexities associated with the experience of pain are immense. Hall (1994) addresses those that deal with the physiological aspects by observing that medical science has not fully explained pain mechanisms. The specialization of receptors has been discovered. This refers to receptors being more sensitive to one stimulus than others. Hall (1994) continues with the identification of the receptor that is "incriminated" in the reception of pain, the unmyelinated or thinly myelinated nerve ending, an "unencapsulated" nerve ending. Hall describes the myelin sheath covering that encloses nerve fibers. The thickness of t his sheath varies throughout the body, from none in the periphery, to very thick where nerves enter bones, and other parts of the body. The covering acts as insulation to keep stimuli from entering the nerve from regions other than those served by the nerve (p. 11). Hall (1994) goes on to describe the receptor as a "primitive unorganized nerve ending and often has a weed-like appearance. It has many branches and overlaps with other receptors to totally cover the area which it serves" (p. 11). The area that a particular nerve serves is called a dermatome, which may serve an area of skin, a muscle, or any organ of the body. Hall states, "It is important to realize that the strength of stimulus is a critical factor in the production of pain in this and other

Fundamentals of the property law Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Fundamentals of the property law - Essay Example In this case, Mal have ownership right rights over the land and he can transfer it to any one he may wish. In this case he has decided to transfer the land to Sam, where he has sold the land at a total of $120000. In the case Gunana v Northern Territory (2007) 153 FCR 349 at [83], there was determination of the owner of the title of the land. But the owners of the land had reconsider their honours to the effect of the operation of the Aboriginal Land Rights (Northern Territory) Act 1976 (Cth) (the ALRA). The act was on the operation of the Fisheries Act 1988 (NT) and the powers of the director of the fisheries had to appoint pursuant to act in the legislation. The court judgment was that land was fully owned by the traditional Aboriginal owners. The ALRA held that the owner has the right to exclusive possession of both the water and the land. This stated that since the owner was given the fishing license, no one else was authorized to fish in the land and also in the water. If someon e wanted to access the land, one had to obtain permission from the owner (Strelein 2010) In the case Northern Territory of Australia & Anor v Arnhem Land Aboriginal Land Trust & Ors (2008) HCA 29, the court ruled that the owner of the land had exclusive rights over the possession of the land. The owner had all the marine property within the land. ... The owner had no right to exclude other people who had been given the same title and who were the native holders of the title. It was also decided that the owner was not allowed to deny the native holders of the title the right to fish and hunt (McHugh 2011). The legal issue in this case is that, initially, Mal was the owner of the property. Since he agreed to sell the property to Sam and he also signed the transfer forms, the property no longer belonged to him. When Mal also agreed to sign the letter for the authorization of the delivery of the certificate to Sam, he had already made his decision to sell the property to Sam, though Sam had not yet paid him the money. Mal should not claim that he was tricked by the Harry’s solicitors since he had agreed to be paid later by Sam. If he wanted to claim the money from Sam, he would have given him the conditions of selling the property. He would not have agreed to sell the property on credit. Though they had made an agreement that Sam was to pay him at the end of six weeks, Harry has a right of claiming the certificate so that he can lend the money to Sam. Question two The question is based on Absolute, determinable and conditional interests. Absolute grants refer to interests which no conditions are attached. In this grant, there is no requirement of either non occurrence or occurrence of any situation or any particular or given event. When the grant is determinable, it means that the interests will be automatically terminated on the occurrence of the event which was specified. In determinable grant the following words are used during, while, until and as long as. In any case the event becomes impossible, the interest automatically becomes absolute (Clarke and Kohler 2005). A grant can

Homework for Marshall Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Homework for Marshall - Coursework Example The Marshall plan was aimed at appealing to America to generously lend a hand to Europe after the war (Marshall par. 7). The plan aimed at helping all humanity and not just a few as before, as Marshall would put it, the American policy was not against any nation or creed but against hunger, poverty, and chaos. The plan was meant to promote security to all humanity and not just what interested America. It was to see that Europe was rebuilt and the hate and resentment that came up during world war was not revived. The plan also showed what values the Americans had. As opposed to fear and anger that could have risen after the war, the people choose to be generous. The plan exhibited flexibility as it was not aimed towards a particular race, but to all mankind affected by the war (Marshall par. 9). Before the war, American policy was selective in that whatever happened to other countries was their own business. As long as there was no direct threat to America, there would be no involvement. After the war, America realized that lack of peace elsewhere would at one time reach within its territory.This plan helped America realize that there was need to use power and prestige to protect and help its friends at time of need. This plan helped America transform from individualists to

Additional Retained Firefighters Essay Example for Free

Additional Retained Firefighters Essay Firefighters are rescuers extensively trained in firefighting, primarily to extinguish hazardous fires that threaten property and civilian or natural populations and to rescue people from dangerous situations, like as collapsed or burning buildings The complexity of modern industrialized life with a greater prominence of hazards has created an increase in the skills needed in firefighting technology and a broadening of the firefighter-rescuers remit. They sometimes provide emergency medical services, for example. The fire service, or fire and rescue service, also known in some countries as the fire brigade or fire department, is one of the main emergency services. Firefighting and firefighters have become ubiquitous around the world, from wildland areas to urban areas, and aboard ships. According to Merriam-Websters Dictionary, the English word firefighter has been used since 1903. 1] In recent decades it has become the preferred term, replacing the older fireman, since many women serve as firefighters, and also because the term fireman can have other meanings, including someone who sets or stokes fires – the opposite of the firefighting role. [2] In many countries, firefighters may be employed as full-time workers and paid a salary. See more:Â  The 3 Types of Satire Essay Additionally, there are volunteer firefighters (who are theoretically unpaid) and retained firefighters (or auxiliary firefighters, who are paid for the specific time they are on duty, i. . permanent part-time career firefighters) on call as required. [3] In such countries as the United Kingdom, the use of additional retained firefighters is standard. In Portugal, for example, the use of volunteer firefighters is standard, along with career firefighters. In Australia there are volunteer brigades which are mostly unpaid rural services, although traditionally they are paid by their employers if called out during usual working hours.

Aida Model Essay Example for Free

Aida Model Essay Every day were bombarded with headlines like these that are designed to grab our attention. In a world full of advertising and information – delivered in all sorts of media from print to websites, billboards to radio, and TV to text messages – every message has to work extremely hard to get noticed. And its not just advertising messages that have to work hard; every report you write, presentation you deliver, or email you send is competing for your audiences attention. As the world of advertising becomes more and more competitive, advertising becomes more and more sophisticated. Yet the basic principles behind advertising copy remain – that it must attract attention and persuade someone to take action. And this idea remains true simply because human nature doesnt really change. Sure, we become increasingly discerning, but to persuade people to do something, you still need to grab their attention, interest them in how your product or service can help them, and then persuade them to take the action you want them to take, such as buying your product or visiting your website. The acronym AIDA is a handy tool for ensuring that your copy, or other writing, grabs attention. The acronym stands for: Attention (or Attract) Interest Desire Action. These are the four steps you need to take your audience through if you want them to buy your product or visit your website, or indeed to take on board the messages in your report. A slightly more sophisticated version of this is AIDCA/AIDEA, which includes an additional step of Conviction/Evidence between Desire and Action. People are so cynical about advertising messages that coherent evidence may be needed if anyone is going to act! How to Use the Tool: Use the AIDA approach when you write a piece of text that has the ultimate objective of getting others to take action. The elements of the acronym are as follows: 1. Attention/Attract In our media-filled world, you need to be quick and direct to grab peoples attention. Use powerful words, or a picture that will catch the readers eye and make them stop and read what you have to say next. With most office workers suffering from e-mail overload, action-seeking e-mails need subject lines that will encourage recipients to open them and read the contents. For example, to encourage people to attend a company training session on giving feedback, the email headline, How effective is YOUR feedback? is more likely to grab attention than the purely factual one of, This weeks seminar on feedback. 2. Interest This is one of the most challenging stages: Youve got the attention of a chunk of your target audience, but can you engage with them enough so that theyll want to spend their precious time understanding your message in more detail? Gaining the readers interest is a deeper process than grabbing their attention. They will give you a little more time to do it, but you must stay focused on their needs. This means helping them to pick out the messages that are relevant to them quickly. So use bullets and subheadings, and break up the text to make your points stand out. For more information on understanding your target audiences interests and expectations, and the context of your message, read our article on the Rhetorical Triangle. 3. Desire The Interest and Desire parts of AIDA go hand-in-hand: As youre building the readers interest, you also need to help them understand how what youre offering can help them in a real way. The main way of doing this is by appealing to their personal needs and wants. So, rather than simply saying Our lunchtime seminar will teach you feedback skills, explain to the audience whats in it for them: Get what you need from other people, and save time and frustration, by learning how to give them good feedback. Feature and Benefits (FAB) A good way of building the readers desire for your offering is to link features and benefits. Hopefully, the significant features of your offering have been designed to give a specific benefit to members of your target market. When it comes to the marketing copy, its important that you dont forget those benefits at this stage. When you describe your offering, dont just give the facts and features, and expect the audience to work out the benefits for themselves: Tell them the benefits clearly to create that interest and desire. Example: This laptop case is made of aluminum, describes a feature, and leaves the audience thinking So what? Persuade the audience by adding the benefits.giving a stylish look, thats kinder to your back and shoulders. You may want to take this further by appealing to peoples deeper drives giving effortless portability and a sleek appearance and that will be the envy of your friends and co-workers. 4. Conviction As hardened consumers, we tend to be skeptical about marketing claims. Its no longer enough simply to say that a book is a bestseller, for example, but readers will take notice if you state (accurately, of course!), that the book has been in the New York Times Bestseller List for 10 weeks, for example. So try to use hard data where its available. When you havent got the hard data, yet the product offering is sufficiently important, consider generating some data, for example, by commissioning a survey. 5. Action Finally, be very clear about what action you want your readers to take; for example, Visit www.mindtools.com now for more information rather than just leaving people to work out what to do for themselves. See more at: file:///C:/Users/GOPAL%20RATHORE/Downloads/AIDA%20%20Attention-Interest-Desire-Action%20-%20Communication%20Skills%20Training%20From%20MindTools.com.htm#sthash.nCxC0EZx.dpuf

Coca Cola Threat of Entrants and Porters Five

Coca Cola Threat of Entrants and Porters Five Rationale: Coca Cola Company continues to work on research/development and focus on making new products. For instance, a can of coke has a secret formula that will be difficult to imitate. Coca Cola products are significant because they make each product unique. Internal Fit/Factors Porter 5 Forces Analysis Threat of Entrants Coca-Cola does have a lot of competitors in the soft drink industry. The threat of entrants is low for the soft drink industry. There are very few entrants who can compete with Coke. In addition, a barrier to entry when entering the soft drink industry would be a high capital investment. If you dont have that high capital investment it would be hard to enter the industry. Coke nearly earns 48% of the soft drink industry and there are no competitors that are nowhere near coca colas distribution. Coca-Cola has over 500 brands of products which are potentially substitutes. To get the point, the buyer can switch from one product to another at no cost under the Coca Cola brand. Nowadays, consumers are really being health-conscious about their health. So they may not be interested in soft drinks but look at tea, juices, milk and even water. Certainly, Coke does have these products on hand. If Coca Cola decides to increase most of their product by a $0.50 increase, it would be very likely, consumers would buy Pepsi products. Coke can lose its profits margin and can have a major impact on the trademark itself if they increase prices. Price is a huge factor to take into consideration with regards to other entrants. The challenge for this organization today and the future is to focus private companies because they can imitate the products and put cheaper prices. Private companies currently earn 14.4% of the soft drink industry. Having strong barriers prevents from this rising situation to happen. One strong barrier to entrant that prevents from coming would be distribution channels. Coca cola has their products everywhere on their store shelves which make it accessible to consumers while new private companies will have a hard time selling their products to wholesalers, retailers, and distributors. Rationale: Entrants are slowly rising to the carbonated soft drink industry and as organization must find new barriers. Coca-Cola should continue to develop their brand loyalty worldwide and convince consumers to have reliability in their products. Barriers to entry One of the 5 forces that shape the soft drink industry is barriers to entry. The Coca Cola company says on its website it is facing strong competition from well-established global companies and many local participants. For this particular industry, the competitive forces are benign, (favourable). Most of the companies in the soft drink industry are profitable. The Coca Cola companys main competitors are Dr.Pepper, Nestle and Pepsico. These companies definitely have the advantage over there competitors. In porters 5 forces, Porter refers to supply-side economies of scale, where firms such as the CCC and Pepsico can produce at large volumes enjoy lower costs per unit because they can spread fixed costs over more units, employ more efficient technology, or command better terms from suppliers. According to Porters article, supply-side scale economies deter entry by forcing the aspiring entrant either to come in the industry on a large scale, which requires dislodging entrenched competito rs. How does a newcomer circumvent the barriers to soft drink industry? Perhaps create new distribution channels of their own. Creating a niche market for their drink in the form of marketing to a certain segment in the soft drink industry. Competitive Rivalry Competitive rivalry is between two main competitors the Coca Cola Company and Pepsico to satisfy the taste of consumers in this industry. Last month Beverage Digest reported that Pepsi-Colas market share fell 0.5 percentage point while Diet Coke slipped just 0.1 percentage point in the U.S. supermarkets, convenience stores and other retail outlets. The two companies have fought over the past decade to win market share from one another as overall sales dropped. This relates to Porters article on the 5 competitive forces that shape strategy. There is an intense rivalry between these two companies. According to porter high rivalry, limits the profitability of the industry. The Coca Cola Company and Pepsico are competing based on brand image. Power of the buyers One of the 5 forces of porter is buyers the power of the, for Coca Cola Company the power of the buyers is high. They play an important role in the Company process because they are part of the distribution process of the company. They play an important role in distributing the system so it can reach the consumers. They are part of the company and the process. They are part of the strategy used by the company. Power of the suppliers Another of the 5 forces of porter is the suppliers. As well they play an important role in the company process so they have a high power. They have a high power because they also play an important part of the process of the soft drinks. If they decided to boycott the company it will caused them serious damages. There will be a cost to switch suppliers because they will have to build a relationship since 0 and might lost incomes for doing that. External Fit (Diamond E. Model) Management Preferences The senior management team wants to increase the efficiency and effectiveness in the production and bottling sector. With regards to economies of scale, Coke continues to increase production at a low cost. As production of Coca Cola products increase, the cost of producing each unit falls. Moreover, the senior management continues to think about new products (in addition to their 500 products), develop beverages, make new programs and promotions, and meet the needs of customers. The senior management continues to strive for sustainability in their organization. Coca cola recently launched their plant bottle packaging, which basically means they have created their PET bottles from plant based materials. Hence, makes their product 100% recyclable. Muhtar Kent, chief operating officer continues his obligation with sustainability. In 10 years, he plans to reduce coca colas emission by a half. To continue improving performance, Coca-Cola continues to update their technology with regards to quality control. As well continue using better material for their products. In addition, this organization is starting to develop their products in rural areas of the world. The senior management team wants to let consumers know that they are the most trusted carbonated soft drink company and strive to achieve leadership in corporate sustainability. Rationale: The main preferences for Muhtar Kent, CEO, wants to develop and raise their brands, enhance revenue growth and increase productivity within their products. Resources The resources on the Coca Cola Company according to the Diamond E. Model are first the all the resources that the company have to keep on growing and innovating. From the shareholders to the investors, etc. The company has used many of these resources to create healthy products or bio friendly products. They are aware that many of their ingredients comes from the environment and the nature so they are trying to created a friendly environment where the environment is being look after. They have different programs that are meant to help the environments to maintain the natural resources of the land. This is very important because if one of the products they use is gone they wont be able to produce the product anymore. Organization What is the structure, leadership and unique features of the Coca Cola Company in relation to Fry/Killing Diamond E Model. It is what is referred to as the Coca Cola system, which comprises 300 bottling partners worldwide. The coca cola system operates through multiple local channels, the company manufactures and sells its concentrate, beverage bases and syrups to bottling operations, owns the brands and responsible for consumer brand marketing initiatives. The bottling partners manufacture, package, merchandise and distribute the final branded beverages to customers and vending partners, who then sell the products to consumers. It is no wonder the coca cola company has one of the best distribution systems in the world and the ability to penetrate in markets where no company can duplicate is attribute to the structure and leadership at the Coca Cola company. The other unique aspect is the relationship it has with its bottling partners, who in turn works closely with customers, like g rocery stores, restaurants, street vendors, convenience stores, movie theatres, and amusement parks to execute localized strategies developed in partnership with the company. Part 2 The strategic job we chose for our organization was Brand manager and the requisite job we chose was a Truck Driver/Vending Machine Supplier. Requisite Job at Coca Cola: Truck Driver/Vending Machine Supplier The requisite job for the Coca Cola company we agreed to use was the truck driver/vending machine supplier. This type of worker requires high school education, has to be licensed to drive a truck, may involve some lifting and moving heavy case of soft drinks. It would be an asset to be in good physical condition. But it is not a requirement. The job incumbent must be personable, because you are dealing with customers and consumers of the company on a daily basis. It would be ideal to hire from within the company a group of truck driver/vending machine suppliers, but due to the supply of this type of worker. We will hire from outside the company. It is easy to hire from a pool of truck driver/vending machine stockers. Duties Responsible for delivering product and filling vending machines at all points of availability. Collects and is accountable for money Check accuracy and stability of the load Restock machine to proper level, maintaining accuracy in stock levels Invoice and collection of monies Securing company assets Ensure the machines are clean and in good working order Ensure compliance with regulatory and company policies and procedures Settle all accounts daily Ensure product codes and Health codes are adhere to Report damage to machines Load supplies in a vehicle, such as a truck Establish and maintain good customer relations with business owners and operators Knowledge/Skills/Attributes/other attributes of a Truck Driver/Vending Machine Supplier Knowledge knowledge of the English language Able to provide customer service and interpersonal relationships on one on one basis. able to provide and identify customer service needs in a group dynamic situation. being able to evaluate quickly customer service needs and know how to meet those needs knowledge of simple mathematics and statistics knowledgeable of relevant equipment and company safety policies and procedures. able to understand and read provincial regulations, regarding the safe operation of a vehicle Skills active listening speaking Critical thinking Coordination Service orientation Judgement and Decision-making Writing Abilities Oral comprehension Good Vision Ability for good oral expression Speech clarity Written Comprehension Control Precision Depth Perception Other Attributes Ability to perform and work directly with the Public Able to deal with external customers Able to have Face-to-Face discussions Able to work with a group or team Is able to work outdoors, exposure to all types of weather Able to handle the daily contact with the same people in a professional and polite manner Labour Market for a Coca Cola Truck Driver/Vending Machine Supplier Based on the duties and KSAOs of this type of work at the Coca Cola company. We are not just looking to hire any driver. They need to have the experience in dealing with customers and the public. They must be committed to working for the company, because we are going to be testing the potential hirees. The testing will be based on questions about our companys occupational health procedures and equipment operation. The potential hirees will be tested on English language proficiency and Mathematics problem-solving etc They will also be quizzed on customer service skills. What type of interpersonal skills do they possess? This type of job consists of daily contact with customers and business owners. We will give provide further training for those drivers/vending suppliers at the companys expense. Based on these requirements for the job, we will need to find certain individuals that possess a high school diploma, with a clean driving record. The company is confident that we will find the se talented people to come and work for the Coca Cola company. The CCC will provide the additional training to enhance skills such English, written and oral comprehension. The training will also involve a simulation of driving a Coca cola delivery truck. How to handle tight corners for example, or driving on the highway, avoiding dangerous maneuvers, while changing lanes. We at Coca Cola believe we can, attract and retain this type of driver. They will go through Coca Cola University, and once they complete their goals with a certificate. They will have the ability to work anywhere in Canada and the U.S. The company believes by showing that commitment and belief to our people in this case, our truck driver/vending suppliers, we have created a our own market. Benefits The benefits are: Training: at the Coca cola university for only selected hirees. Health, Dental, Vision Plan -an employee who requires work-life balance, can ask for it. This might involve parental leave or personal leave program. It is our belief at our company that we have invested time and training for our employees, in order to retain and attract future employees this is one benefit at the coca cola company will a mainstay. We also have wellness programs, so our employees have the option of going into a fitness program at the no cost to them. We have financial planning benefits that our Truck driver/vending suppliers can take advantage of, so they can plan for the a secure future for their families. Compensation We would start the new hirees at $13 hourly rate,work, after one year to $15/hr- enventually topping at $30/hr. The performance pay would be based on individual performance. We are designing the merit bonuses into the compensation package. One form of a bonus incentive could be showing up for work consistently. Or we could gear it to production like serving a number of vending machines or a certain number of clients. The other options are, since this type of work involves excellent customer service skills, we could start to give bonuses to employees who score high on customer service. Another type of bonus, could be about minimizing errors by truck delivery personnel on the most efficient routes for delivering products of Coca cola. We would also encourage the participation of employees on what type of bonuses they like to attain. Research has shown that employees who work to challenging but attainable goals, especially when they had a role in formulating these goals-outperform those without specific work goals

Process Essay - Bathing a Large Dog -- Expository Process Essays

Bathing a Large Dog Bathing a large dog in a bathtub is a test of human endurance equal to the most trying of Olympic events. It is, however, well worth the effort. You will be rewarded in knowing you are helping to keep your pet healthy. Additionally, you will know your home won't smell like the primate building at the zoo. To begin, prepare the bathing area. Gather several large bath towels; usually six are adequate. Put two of these on the floor near the tub. Place the additional towels on the closed commode. Use a shampoo that is especially made for the event. The Hartz Company makes an herbal scented brand that is pleasant to use. Have the shampoo within easy reach. You may want to place it on top of the closed commode. Have something at hand by which you can pour water on your dog; I suggest you use a rubber hose with a soft plastic nozzle resembling a miniature shower head. These hoses are inexpensive and attach to most bathtub water spouts. It is very important to have all of the necessary bathing supplies in the bathroom before you bring th...

Frankenstein :: Essays Papers

Frankenstein3 The conflict in the story Frankenstein is self vs. another. Victor Frankenstein is a man interested in chemistry, who alters dead flesh therefore creating a superhuman being of rotted corpses. Mr. Frankenstein is very interested in chemistry, and he basically tries to play God by creating a life in a laboratory. However, the life that he makes is a monster. One day Frankenstein receives a letter telling of the death of his brother William. Justine Morizt, a family friend, was the presumed murder of William. However, when approached, the monster confesses to awful slaying of Victor’s brother. The monster claimed that he was trying to get back at Frankenstein for artificially giving him life. The monster did not know right from wrong and he especially did not mean to kill anybody. As the story continued, the monster demanded that Victor create a female companion. At first, Victor agrees to the monter’s proposal. However, he soon realizes that another super being would harm the life of not only him, but those who he loved. Still, the monster wants revenge on Frankenstein, and so everything in Victor’s life ends up being destroyed, including his wife and best friend. Frankenstein in a good example of why human beings should not try to play God and artificially create a being in a laboratory. With the technology that we have today, wouldn’t it be scary to see what super human could be created in our labs? The first setting of Frankenstein is in Geneva, Switzerland. However, later in the story, the setting shifts back and forth throughout central Europe. Frankenstein was written in first person point of view. Mary Shelley, the author, probably chose to write this way because she felt that it was important to know the thoughts and feelings of Victor Frankenstein, the main character. Frankenstein is a man who is totally interested in chemistry. Therefore, taking dead flesh, he artificially creates a super being. The monster is created by Victor. He does not know right from wrong. Therefore he kills Frankenstein’s brother, William. Later in the story he also kills Victor’s wife and best friend. William is Victor’s brother who is killed by the monster.

Review of William Cooks Francis of Assisi :: essays research papers

In his book, Francis of Assisi, William R. Cook seeks to provide a better understanding of St. Francis of Assisi as an individual rather than in conjunction with the order he founded. Cook divides the book into six sections, each section concentrating on an important aspect or experience in Francis= life and spirituality. The six sections focus on his conversion; his relationship to the created world; the creation of the Christmas crib at Greccio; the role of learning; the relationship between the active and contemplative life; and his stigmatization at LaVerna in 1224.(pg. 18) In order to provide a general understanding I believe that these six sections can be narrowed down into three major themes that Cook sets forth; full surrender to God, a balance between world and self through an understanding of God=s will, and the importance of experiencing scripture over studying it. To support these themes Cook utilizes a number of reliable resources, both written and visual. In looking at the first and last of Cook=s six sections, Francis= conversion and his stigmatization at LaVerna, the theme of a full surrender to God can be seen. For a clearer understanding of Francis= conversion a brief look at his history is important. Francis was the son of a rich business man. In his youth, he spent time drinking with his friends and lived an entertaining life thanks to the pocket of his father. He dreamed, as did many of the teenage boys of his time, of becoming a soldier. It was seen as the glamorous life of heroes, who fought for their country as well as won the favor of beautiful women. What more could a boy want? So Francis headed off to war. Unfortunately his image of the glories of war was soon shattered. He was taken as a prisoner of war by Perugia, Assisi=s warring neighbor. After his release, Francis became very ill. For a boy of Francis= age, the sights of battle and prison are sobering experiences. Disillusioned with his previously held beliefs, Francis began to change his thinking. The things that formerly brought him happiness no longer did and Francis saw a need for a change in his life. This need brought him to the foot of the throne of Christ. So, it can be seen that for Francis, conversion was a complete turn around from life as he knew it. He soon decided that he needed to give his whole life to Christ and in doing so give up the life he once knew.

Lewis and Clark Journal Entries

Lewis and Clark Journal Entries Monday 25th November 1805 Today was a really nice day. We had several Indians come up to us today. Later we loaded and set out to the river. We then continued to Shallow Bay. But the waves were too high. So we couldn't cross the river. For dinner we ate dried pounded fish. Then we continued up the North Side of the river near our camp. The evening was cloudy and windy today. That we could see from our last campsite at Mount Rainer bearing. The wind was blowing too hard for us to cross the river from our campsite, but we were determined to proceed up to where the river was narrow. We set out early in the morning. We were accompanied by 7 people. We stopped for a few miles, then a few Indians left us and crossed the river through the immense high waves. We then ate at Shallow Bay. We had dried pounded fish. When we were done eating we proceeded to the North Side of the Columbia, and then we started camping again a little after sunset. Near our campsite at some distance into the river. The evening was cloudy, but the winds were really nice and we can also see Mt. Hillmans from the mouth of the river. May 25, 1804 We decided to set out early. At about two miles passed a willow tree. By the bend in the creek called Wood River. At three miles passed the mouth of another creek called La Que Ver this same course continued for a while. About two and a half miles further on one side we passed a creek called La Freneau at this point we were at least four miles away from a small French Village called La Charatt there were only five families in this village. It has been raining all night. The river rose several inches. I hope we find some islands tomorrow. We plan on passing Wood River again. We will go about two miles passed La Que Ver. At five miles passed La Free Au. At eight miles we set up camp at the mouth of a creek called Charrette above a small French Village that only has seven houses. We will settle there to hunt and trade with the Indians. While we were are here we will meet with Louis immediately. We will get situated at Sioux and he will give us some good of information and letters.

An AP prompt essay discussing how writers must prepare to be unsatisfied Essay

Everyday more and more people try to make a profession in being a successful writer. In this passage, aspiring writer Melusina Fay Peirce writes to novelist Marian Evans Lewes asking if beginning writing at thirty is too old. Evans is moved by this letter and responds mentioning thirty is not too old. In the letter, she comments that even an accomplished writer such as herself is rarely satisfied with hours of work. It is impossible to be an accomplished writer without having years of wisdom behind you. Throughout the passage, she utilizes various persuasive techniques such as refutation and analogies in order to depict novice work as tasteless. In Lewes response to Peirce, she incorporates many rhetorical strategies in order to convey that writers must prepare to be unsatisfied and must not be concerned about flattery because success in writing comes only with maturity. In the beginning of the letter, Evans uses a plethora of rhetorical strategies which suggest that in order to be a writer one must be ready to be unsatisfied. Evans declares her â€Å"consciousness is not of the triumphant kind†. Beginning her letter with a refutation immediately conveys that being a writer is a difficult life. Although one may put hours of hard work into a novel, satisfaction is not always achieved. She then states that â€Å"Exultation is a dream before achievement and rarely comes after†. Evans suggests that she often fancies admiration before her work is finished only to encounter a deficiency of praise after. While Lewes may be a praised writer, she shocks Peirce when saying she is rarely commended for her work; writers’ dreams are seldom met. When encountering the lack of the praise writers such as Evans tend to feel like a â€Å"poor husk†. Evans uses this word to convey the emptiness in which she feels after writing. One always feels like it is possible to create better work but doesn’t know where to look. She then continues on and inquire to Peirce â€Å"Does these seem melancholy? ‘. This rhetorical question implies that these feelings of â€Å"incompleteness† and emptiness are far less melancholy than self-flattery. This connects to the refutation at the beginning of the paragraph stating that writers seldom feel triumphant. Using the various strategies, Evans conveys that to be a writer one must not be concerned about flattery and must be prepared to be unfulfilled. In the next paragraph, Evans refutes Peirce’s main concern of being too old to start writing by giving support to the idea that success come with maturity. Lewes responds by mentioning â€Å"not to fancy yourself old because you are thirty, or to regret you have not written anything†. This refutation replies to Peirce’s concern that she is too old and tells Peirce not to worry. She then states that it does not even matter if one hasn’t written anything prior to being an established writer. Lewes then mentions that the writing of a young writer is â€Å"no better than trashy, unripe fruit†. The underdeveloped fruit mirrors the underdeveloped minds and writing of the young writers. He then states that there is nothing worse than a writer who has â€Å"exhausted himself†. One cannot burn out writing all of their material while young. A successful writer needs to be patient, as triumph in literature comes with experience in everyday life. Towards the end of the letter, Evans reflects that when she was young â€Å"she began a sort of writing which had no great glory belonging to it, but which she felt certain she could do faithfully and well†. This anecdote also works as an emotional appeal as it sympathizes with Peircr, implying mutual feelings both writers felt while young. Evans suggests that mature and older writers are more patient in their writing, consequently producing better works. Evans is very persuasive in her position which states achievements in writings will come along with maturity. In Lewes’s letter to Peirce, she includes numerous persuasive techniques in order to convey that writers must prepare to be unsatisfied and must not be concerned about flattery because success in writing only comes with maturity. Evans’s main point is that one is never too old to begin writing. An aspiring writer shouldn’t hold back on account that they haven’t produced descent works in the past. Wisdom, compassion and insight all come with years of aging and are needed to produce successful writing.

Succubus Revealed Chapter 4

â€Å"But I don't know what it is I'm doing!† I cried. â€Å"Do you?† â€Å"I've told you all I can for now,† said Carter, that sadness returning. â€Å"The most I can do now is buy you a drink.† I shook my head. â€Å"I don't think there's enough whiskey in the world.† â€Å"There isn't,† he said bleakly. â€Å"There isn't.† Despite Carter's pessimism, I still tried calling Hugh to see if he knew anything. He didn't, but his incredulity was so similar to mine that I took some comfort in it. â€Å"What? That's ridiculous,† he told me. â€Å"It was a mistake. It has to be.† â€Å"Will you try to get ahold of Jerome for me?† I asked. â€Å"I mean, I'll keep trying too, but maybe if we're both calling, he'll eventually notice the phone.† Even though it was still early for the demon, I also had this strange feeling that he could very well be avoiding my calls if something was afoot. Hugh might sneak in where I couldn't. I was fast approaching the time when I was supposed to meet Seth at the twins' school. I had wanted to run home and try talking to Roman about my potential transfer, but it didn't seem as important now, not until I had the story confirmed or denied by Jerome. So, after a few more errands that seemed hopelessly mundane compared to the greater supernatural workings of the universe, I drove up to Lake Forest Park and arrived at the school just as Seth did. Ian got out of the car too, and Seth flashed me a quick look that said he wasn't thrilled about having brotherly company. Ian was wearing the jacket Seth had mentioned, a brown wool peacoat that fit him well enough to be tailored and had strategically placed patches meant to give it a vintage appearance. Ian completed the look with a carefully knotted striped scarf and fedora. He also had on glasses, which I'd seen no sign of at Seth's. â€Å"I didn't know you wore glasses,† I told him. He sighed. â€Å"They go with the scarf.† Seth was carrying two huge containers of white-frosted cupcakes that were liberally and sloppily dusted with green and red sparkles. I took one batch from him and walked inside with the brothers, where we signed in and were given directions to the classroom. â€Å"Looks like you were productive,† I said with a smile. â€Å"No thanks to Mom,† Seth replied fondly. â€Å"It took her forever to leave. She kept offering to help and double-check my work, make sure the oven was set and all that. It was a boxed mix. There wasn't that much I could mess up.† Ian muttered something about preservatives and high fructose corn syrup. The classroom was pleasant, organized chaos. Other parents and family friends were there to help with the party, distributing food and running games. The twins ran up to the three of us with quick, fierce hugs before scurrying off to play with their friends. I didn't see Morgan and McKenna outside of the family very often, so it was neat to watch them so active and outgoing with their peers. They charmed their friends as much as they charmed me, and it was clear the two girls were leaders of sorts. Tiny, adorable blond leaders. The knot I'd carried inside me since getting the HR memo began to soften as I allowed myself the small joy of observing them. Seth slipped an arm around me, following my gaze as we maintained our post near the food table. He nodded toward where Ian was trying to pitch his own cupcakes – organic, vegan, gluten-free creations from a local bakery – to some of the twins' classmates. To be fair, the cupcakes were beautiful. They were vanilla, topped with elaborately swirled chocolate icing that was in turn adorned with perfect white frosting flowers. They made Seth's cupcakes look like something the girls might have made, but I knew better than to be fooled. When you made cupcakes without most of the ingredients found in traditional baked goods, the truth came out in the taste. Pretty or not, Ian wasn't doing so good a job moving them. â€Å"These are so much better for you than all this other junk food,† Ian was telling a wide-eyed boy named Kayden. Despite the fact we'd been inside the warm classroom for almost an hour, Ian was still completely clad in his scarf and wool coat ensemble. â€Å"They're made with brown rice flour and garbanzo bean flour and sweetened with maple syrup – none of that processed white sugar crap.† Kayden's eyes grew impossibly bigger. â€Å"Those have beans and rice in them?† Ian faltered. â€Å"Well, yes . . . but, no, I mean. It's flour derived from those ingredients in a way that's totally fair trade and nutritious. Plus, I picked a brown and white color scheme, not only to save you from artificial dyes but also to show respect for all holidays and tradition, rather than giving into the mainstream domination of the Judeo-Christian machine.† Without another word, Kayden grabbed a red-frosted snowman cookie from the snack table and wandered off. Ian gave us a long-suffering look. â€Å"I fear for today's youth. At least we can take the leftovers back to Terry's.† â€Å"We'd better,† said Seth. â€Å"Those cost me a small fortune.† â€Å"You mean they cost me a small fortune,† said Ian. â€Å"They're my contribution.† â€Å"I paid for them!† â€Å"It was just a loan,† said Ian imperiously. â€Å"I'll pay you back.† The party didn't last too much longer – seven-year-olds didn't need to slam drinks for hours like my friends did – but I still kept checking my phone whenever Seth wasn't watching. I had it set to vibrate in my pocket but was afraid I would miss Jerome's call. But no matter how many times I looked, the phone's display remained the same. No incoming calls or texts. With things winding down, McKenna made her way back to me and wrapped herself around my leg. â€Å"Georgina, are you going to come to our house tonight? Grammy's cooking. We're going to have lasagna.† â€Å"And cupcakes,† piped in Ian, carefully packing up his goods. By my estimation, he'd given away exactly one cupcake, and that was to a boy who'd taken it on a dare from his friends. I lifted McKenna up, surprised at how big she was getting. The years didn't alter my immortal friends or me, but mortals changed by leaps and bounds in such short time periods. She wrapped her arms around me, and I pressed a kiss into her blond curls. â€Å"I wish I could, baby. But I have to work tonight.† â€Å"Are you still helping Santa?† she asked. â€Å"Yes,† I said solemnly. â€Å"And it's very important work. I can't miss it.† Without me, there was no telling how sober Santa would stay. McKenna sighed and leaned her head against my shoulder. â€Å"Maybe you'll come over when you're done.† â€Å"You'll be in bed,† I said. â€Å"I'll see what I can do for tomorrow.† This earned me a tighter hug, and I felt my heart ache. The girls always had this effect on me, triggering a mix of emotion that was both love for them and regret for the children I myself would never have. Children had been something I'd wanted as a mortal, something denied to me even then. The pain of that reality had been driven home last year when Nyx, a primordial chaos entity, had visited me in my sleep and used tantalizing dreams to distract me while she stole my energy. The one that had recurred the most had shown me with a little girl – my own daughter – stepping outside into a snowy night to greet her father. He'd been shadowy at first, later revealed as Seth. Nyx, in a desperate bid for help later, had sworn the dream was true, a prophecy of things to come. It had been a lie, however. An impossibility that could never be mine. â€Å"Maybe you'll come by my house after you're done with work,† Seth said to me in a low voice, once she'd wriggled away. â€Å"That depends,† I said. â€Å"Who's going to be in your bed?† â€Å"We had a talk. He knows to stay out of my room.† I smiled and caught hold of Seth's hand. â€Å"I would, but I've got some things to do tonight. I've got to hunt down Jerome about . . . business.† â€Å"You're sure that's it?† he asked. â€Å"You're sure my family's not scaring you off?† I'll admit, I didn't relish the thought of seeing Margaret Mortensen's disapproving gaze, but I also couldn't imagine I'd be very good company for Seth if I still didn't know what was going on with my transfer by tonight. The transfer. Looking into his kind, warm eyes, I felt a pit open in my stomach. Maybe I should be jumping at every chance I could get to be with him. Who knew how many more we had? No, I scolded myself. Don't think like that. Tonight you'll find Jerome and clear up this mess. Then you and Seth can be happy. â€Å"Your family has nothing to do with it,† I assured Seth. â€Å"Besides, now that you have extra help, you can use your free time to get some work done.† He rolled his eyes. â€Å"I thought self-employment meant not having a boss.† I grinned and kissed him on the cheek. â€Å"I'll come by tomorrow night.† Kayden, passing by for one last cookie, caught sight of my kiss and scowled disapprovingly. â€Å"Ew.† I parted ways with the Mortensens and headed off to the mall. It was often a surprise to mortals to learn immortals like me purposely chose to take day jobs, so to speak. If you were around for a few centuries and semiwise with your money, it wasn't that hard to eventually build up enough to comfortably live off of, making human employment unnecessary. Yet, most immortals I knew still worked. Correction – most lesser immortals I knew did. Greater ones, like Jerome and Carter, rarely did, but maybe they already had too concrete of a job with their employers. Or, maybe, lesser immortals just carried over the urge from when we were human. Regardless, days like today were clear reminders of why I chose gainful employment. If I'd had nothing but free time on my hands, I would've spent the rest of the day ruminating about my fate and the potential transfer. Assisting Walter-as-Santa – as absurd as it was – at least gave me a distraction while I waited to hear from Jerome. Vocation gave purpose too, which I'd found was necessary to mark the long days of immortality. I'd met lesser immortals who had gone insane, and most of them had done nothing but drift aimlessly throughout their long lives. A new elf – one whom Walter had christened Happy – had joined our ranks today, one who was certainly helping pass the time if only because of how much she was grating on my nerves. â€Å"I don't think he should be drinking at all,† she said, for what felt like the hundredth time. â€Å"I don't see why I have to learn this schedule.† Prancer, a veteran elf, exchanged glances with me. â€Å"None of us is saying it's right,† he told Happy. â€Å"We're just saying it's reality. He's going to get a hold of liquor one way or another. If we deny him, he'll sneak it in the bathroom. He's done it before.† â€Å"If we're the ones giving it to him,† I continued, â€Å"then we control the access and amount he gets. This?† I gestured to the schedule we'd drawn up. â€Å"This isn't much. Especially for a guy his size. It's not even enough to get buzzed.† â€Å"But they're children!† Happy cried. Her eyes drifted off toward the long line of families trailing through the mall. â€Å"Sweet, innocent, joyful children.† Another silent message passed between Prancer and me. â€Å"Tell you what,† I finally said. â€Å"Why don't you make them your priority. Forget about the liquor schedule. We'll handle that. You go trade places with Bashful at the head of the line. She doesn't really like working with the public anyway.† When Happy was out of earshot, I remarked, â€Å"One of these days, someone's going to report us all to the mall's HR office.† â€Å"Oh, they have plenty of times,† said Prancer, smoothing out his green spandex pants. â€Å"I've worked with Walter for three years now, and Happy's not the first elf to have moral qualms about Santa getting lit. He's been reported lots.† That was news to me. â€Å"And they haven't fired him?† â€Å"Nah. It's harder to fill these jobs than you might think. As long as Walter doesn't touch or say something inappropriate, the mall doesn't seem to care.† â€Å"Huh,† I said. â€Å"Good to know.† â€Å"Georgina!† Beyond the gates leading to Santa's pavilion, I saw someone waving at the edge of the crowd. Hugh. My heart rate sped up. This mall was actually right around the corner from his office, so he'd come by before for lunch. In light of recent events – and the look on his face – something told me he wasn't here for a casual meal today. â€Å"Hey,† I said to Prancer. â€Å"Can I take my break now?† â€Å"Sure, go for it.† I cut through the crowd and met up with Hugh, trying not to feel self-conscious about wearing the foil dress. Hugh had come from the office and was dressed impeccably, playing up the role of successful plastic surgeon. I felt cheap beside him, especially as he and I walked farther from the holiday mayhem toward some of the mall's more upscale shops. â€Å"I was on my way home from work and thought I'd stop by,† he said. â€Å"I figured you weren't taking many calls while on the job.† â€Å"Not so much,† I agreed, gesturing to the tight dress and its lack of pockets. I caught hold of his arm. â€Å"Please tell me you heard something. The transfer's a mistake, right?† â€Å"Well, I still think it is, but no, I haven't heard anything back yet – not from HR or Jerome.† He frowned slightly, clearly not liking the lack of communication. Underneath that, I also sensed another emotion in him – nervousness. â€Å"I've got something else for you. Can we talk somewhere . . . kind of private? Is there a Sbarro or Orange Julius around here?† I scoffed. â€Å"Not in this mall. There's a sandwich place we can go to.† â€Å"Sandwich place† wasn't entirely accurate. They also sold gourmet soups and salads, all of which were made fresh and packed with enough prissy ingredients to make Ian happy. Hugh and I snagged a table, my appearance gaining the attention of some children there with their parents. I ignored them as I leaned toward Hugh. â€Å"What's up, then, if not the phantom transfer?† He eyed the watchers uneasily and took several moments to begin speaking. â€Å"I was calling around today, trying to work connections and see if I could find out anything about you. Like I said, I couldn't. But I got caught up on all sorts of other gossip.† I was kind of surprised Hellish gossip was what he wanted to discuss, more surprised still that it had apparently warranted him coming in person. If he'd heard a rumor about a mutual friend, it seemed like a phone call would've sufficed to pass the news. Even e-mail or text. â€Å"Do you remember Milton?† he asked. â€Å"Milton?† I stared blankly. The name meant nothing to me. â€Å"Nosferatu,† he prompted. Still nothing, and then – â€Å"Oh. Yeah. Him. The vampire.† A month or so ago, Milton had visited on vacation, much to Cody and Peter's dismay. Vampires were territorial and didn't like outsiders, although Cody had been able to use Milton's presence to impress his macabre loving girlfriend, Gabrielle. Or so I'd heard. â€Å"I never actually saw him. I just knew he was in town.† â€Å"Yup, and it turns out last week, he was in Boulder.† â€Å"So?† â€Å"So, first of all, it's weird that he'd have two ‘vacations' in that short time. I mean, you know how it is for vampires. You know how it is for all of us.† It was true. Hell didn't like to give us vacations very often. When your employers owned your soul, they really didn't feel any need to make your life pleasant. That wasn't to say we didn't occasionally get time off, but it certainly wasn't a priority for Hell. The business of souls never rested. For vampires, this was doubly true because they didn't like to leave their territory. They also had various complications with traveling, say, like with sunlight. â€Å"Okay, so, it's weird. How does that affect us?† Hugh dropped his voice low. â€Å"When he was in Boulder, a local dark shaman died under mysterious circumstances.† I felt my eyebrows rise. â€Å"And you think Milton was involved ?† â€Å"Well, like I said, I had time to make some calls and do some research today. And it turns out that even though he's based in Raleigh, Milton travels an awful lot for a vampire – and every place he goes, some mortal in the supernatural community ends up dead.† â€Å"You're saying he's an assassin,† I said, intrigued but still not seeing the point. As part of â€Å"the great game† we all played, angels and demons weren't supposed to directly influence mortal lives. That's where lesser immortals came in, with our offers of sin and temptation. Now, we weren't really supposed to kill either, as far as the game went, and we certainly weren't supposed to do it on behalf of a greater immortal's instructions. We all knew it happened, however, and Milton wasn't the first assassin I'd heard of taking out inconvenient mortals. â€Å"Exactly,† said Hugh. He frowned. â€Å"He goes to places, and people disappear.† â€Å"How does that affect us?† Hugh sighed. â€Å"Georgina, he was here.† â€Å"Yeah, but nobody – † I gasped, freezing a moment in shock. â€Å"Erik . . .† The world reeled around me for a moment. I was no longer in an elite mall's food court but instead was looking down on the broken, bleeding body of one of the kindest men I knew. Erik had been a longtime friend in Seattle, using his many years of occult and supernatural knowledge to advise me on my problems. He'd been investigating my contract with Hell when a freak robbery at his store had resulted in his death by gunshot. â€Å"Are you saying . . .† My voice was barely a whisper. â€Å"Are you saying Milton killed Erik?† Hugh shook his head sadly. â€Å"I'm not. I'm just laying out the evidence for you, which is compelling – but not enough to form a hard link to Milton.† â€Å"Then why tell me at all?† I asked. â€Å"You don't like to get involved with anything that questions the status quo.† It was true, and it had been a constant point of contention with Hugh and me. â€Å"I don't,† he said. I understood now why he was so uneasy. â€Å"Not at all. But I care about you, sweetheart. And I know you cared about Erik and wanted answers.† â€Å"Key word: wanted. I thought I had them.† My heart still mourned Erik, but I had begun to heal from his loss, moving on with life the way we all must after losing a loved one. Knowing – or, well, thinking – he'd been killed in a robbery didn't exactly give me peace, but it did provide an explanation. If there was any shred of truth to Hugh's dangerous theory, that Milton – a potential assassin – might have been responsible, then my whole world was suddenly knocked offkilter. And in that scenario, the big issue wasn't that Milton had done it. What became important was why he had done it. Because if he was one of those Hellish assassins lurking in the shadows, then someone higher up had given him his orders, meaning Hell had a reason to want Erik dead. â€Å"You okay?† Hugh's hand on mine made me jump. â€Å"Jesus, Georgina. You're like ice.† â€Å"I'm kind of in shock,† I said. â€Å"This is big, Hugh. Huge.† â€Å"I know,† he said, not sounding happy at all. â€Å"Promise me you won't do anything foolish. I'm still not sure I should have told you.† â€Å"You should have,† I said, squeezing his hand and making no such promises about the foolish part. â€Å"Thank you.† I had to leave shortly thereafter, returning to assist Happy. A little of her zeal about the pure, magical nature of children had faded in that time. I think it was the six-year-old who asked for a nose job that might have cracked her. As for me, I was in a daze, stunned over what Hugh had told me. Erik murdered. His dying words to me had implied something more was going on, but there'd been no evidence to prove it. Or wait . . . was there? I vaguely remembered the glass pattern of his broken window, the suspicion from the police that it had been broken from within. But what did I do with this theory? How did I get the answers I needed? Equally amazing to me was the concession Hugh had made in telling me this. He valued his job and his comfortable position. He really wasn't the type to try to upset Hell or ask questions about things that didn't concern him. Yet he'd pursued his hunch about Milton and passed on the news to me, his friend. Hell made desperate, soulless creatures out of its employees – and most certainly liked it that way – but I doubted any of the higher-ups had imagined the levels of friendship we were still capable of managing. Naturally, only one other thing could have distracted me from this new development, and that was Jerome's presence in my condo later that night. I was returning home after work and sensed his aura coming from within as soon as I put my key to the door. My fears and theorizing about Erik and Milton moved to one part of my brain, replaced by all the old speculation about the mystery transfer. When I entered, I found Jerome sitting in the living room with Roman, both at their ease and barely acknowledging my presence. â€Å"And so,† Jerome was saying, â€Å"that's why you need to do this. As soon as possible. Nanette's people have been at it for a long time, so you've got a lot of ground to cover. Set up a schedule – I don't care how rigorous it is – and make those slackers start putting in their time at the alley.† I stared incredulously. â€Å"You're here about the bowling competition?† Both men looked at me, Jerome seeming irritated at the interruption. â€Å"Of course. The sooner you start practicing, the better.† â€Å"You know what else might be better the sooner it happens ?† I produced the well-worn HR memo with a flourish. â€Å"You telling me if I'm being transferred or not. My money's on it being a mistake because surely, surely you wouldn't put off telling me. Right?† Several heartbeats of silence hung in the room. Jerome held me in his dark, dark gaze, and I refused to look away. At last, he said, â€Å"No. It's real. You're being transferred.† My jaw wanted to drop to the ground. â€Å"Then why . . . why am I only just now hearing about it?† He sighed and made an impatient gesture. â€Å"Because I just found out about it. Someone jumped the gun and delivered the memo to you before telling me.† His eyes glinted. â€Å"Don't worry, I wasn't too thrilled about that myself. I made sure they know my feelings on the matter.† â€Å"But I . . .† I swallowed. â€Å"I was so sure there was a mistake. . . â€Å" â€Å"There was,† he agreed. â€Å"Just not the kind you were thinking of.† I wanted to sink to the floor and melt away but forced myself to stay strong. I had to ask the next most important question, the question that would shape the next phase of my life. â€Å"Where . . . where am I going?† Jerome studied me once again, this time I think just to drag out the suspense and agony. Bastard. At last, he spoke. â€Å"You're going to Las Vegas, Georgie.†