Legalization of marijuana - 789 Words

Annotated Bibliography The topic I chose is the legalization of marijuana. My research was enjoyable because I love reading on a topic that I fully support and agree with. The four sources I found are very persuading and contain strong points. I used the web for research but as I found sources, I made sure they were credible sources since this is such a debatable issue. Jacques, Renee. This Is Why Marijuana Should Be Legal Everywhere. The Huffington Post. TheHuffingtonPost.com, 24 Oct. 2013. Web. 18 Nov. 2013. The topic sources addresses 8 reasons why she thinks cannabis should be legalized. Jacques examples where no one has ever died from a marijuana overdoes, around 40% of Americans have admitted to using it, the plant is much†¦show more content†¦prisons $1 billion annually. These are just 5 of the 14 examples the source provides. The source would be considered credible because everything that is said has a source to back it up. These are many benefits to consider because America could save and profit a lot of money just by legalizing marijuana. I would use this information in my essay to should many positive effects cannabis has for not only the users but our country. For First Time, Americans Favor Legalizing Marijuana. For First Time, Americans Favor Legalizing Marijuana. Gallup Politics, 22 Oct. 2013. Web. 12 Nov. 2013. The source states polls and statistics of the controversial issue. Last year 10% of Americans supported the act, this year its 58%. This is the highest it has ever been. The last time it was the highest percentage was in 1977, yet it was still only 28%. A sizable percentage of Americans (38%) this year admitted to having tried the drug, which may be a contributing factor to greater acceptance. The source tells of how independents are fueling growth in acceptance of legalizing marijuana. The information is credible and important because it gives real polls and statistics. I will use this in my paper for the reason that it will provide readers the knowledge of how other Americans feel and not just myShow MoreRelatedThe Legalization Of Marijuana Legalization1061 Words   |  5 PagesThe Legalization of Cannabis in Ohio Marijuana is a controversial topic all across the United States. Recently marijuana has been voted on, legalized, and denied legalization in multiple states. There are still more states trying to fight the green fight for marijuana. The fight for legalization hasn’t been an easy one for cannabis supporters; they have been fighting tooth and nail to make it happen. One of the main concerns in the marijuana debates are whether or not marijuana is a gateway drugRead MoreLegalization Of Marijuana And Marijuana1633 Words   |  7 PagesBalyuk March 8, 2016 Legalization of Marijuana Marijuana has a few different names that are commonly used in today’s society including weed and cannabis. Weed is smoked with joints, bongs, or pipes. Marijuana can also be mixed with foods usually brownies, cookies, and candy which are called edibles. The main chemical responsible for the high feeling is called THC but marijuana also contains over 500 chemicals. The chemical is found in resin produced by the leaves and buds. â€Å"Marijuana is the most commonlyRead MoreThe Legalization Of Marijuana Legalization Essay2566 Words   |  11 Pagescurrent prohibition on marijuana reforms has put the United States in a similar situation. Marijuana is the most widely used illicit drug in the United States. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, â€Å"95 million Americans age 12 and older have tried pot at least once, and three out of every four illicit-drug users reported using marijuana within the previous 30 days† (ONDCP). The decriminalization and eve ntually legalization for the recreational use of marijuana will bring forth benefitsRead MoreThe Legalization Of Marijuana Legalization1282 Words   |  6 Pages On November 8th, 2016, the California Marijuana Legalization Initiative may be included on the ballot. The people of California will vote on whether to legalize the recreational use of cannabis for adults. The move targets at regulating the consumption of the drug and taxing it like other legalized drugs. California was the first state to legalize medical marijuana in 1996 (National Institute of Drug Abuse). The state prohibited any legal actions from being taken on patients and recognized caregiversRead MoreThe Legalization Of Marijuana Legalization1660 Words   |  7 PagesKyler Smith 9/15 â€Å"Marijuana Legalization† The legality of cannabis varies from country to country. Possession of cannabis is illegal in most countries and has been since the beginning of widespread cannabis prohibition in the late 1930s. However, possession of the drug in small quantities had been decriminalized in many countries and sub-national entities in several parts of the world. Furthermore, possession is legal or effectively legal in the Netherlands, Uruguay, and in the US states of ColoradoRead MoreThe Legalization Of Marijuana And Marijuana Essay1314 Words   |  6 PagesMarijuana or Cannabis is one of the bused drugs in America and the rest of the world. Interesting accumulating evidence show that the significant negative impact of this drug outweighs the positive effects. However, the medical benefits of the drug seem on the process of chemical compounds as compared to the drug itself. Medical debates show that chemical compound in marijuana are the problem as compared to the plant. The said chemical compound af fects the mental and physical health of the personsRead MoreThe Legalization Of Marijuana Legalization996 Words   |  4 Pages the monetary gain of its legalization for most has been productive to say the least. For example, Denver Colorado is on track to more than triple the marijuana tax revenue this year alone. $44 million was collected in 2014. In July 2015, 73.5 million was collected, while 19.6 million went to schools. A place such as Chicago could really use the legalization to help with the school system infrastructure issues they have. With a deficit of over 1.1 billion marijuana sales could alleviate bothRead MoreLegalization of Marijuana1550 Words   |  7 PagesLegalization of Marijuana: Benefits and Statistics The topic of legalizing marijuana has been a topic of controversy for quite some time now not only throughout our local streets, but throughout the local and into the state government. The legalization of marijuana is such a controversial topic because some are for it and some are against it. People are for the legalization because of the great uses it has towards medicine, the money that could come from the taxation of legalized marijuana, andRead MoreLegalization of Marijuana972 Words   |  4 PagesOn January 1st the states of Colorado and Washington officially began the regulation of legal marijuana sales. Thousands of people from all over the country including tourists from Wisconsin, Ohio, Chicago, and even Georgia lined up out front of dispensaries to make a purchase. Recreational marijuana is being regulated and monitored like alcohol; you must be at least 21 years old to make a purchase. The drug, which is controversial in many states’ legislations, is currently l egal for medical useRead MoreThe Legalization of Marijuana628 Words   |  2 PagesThe Legalization of Marijuana Marijuana, the plant of the cannabis, has been around since the early 1900’s. Throughout history, marijuana has been used illegally, for both recreational and medical uses. Recently, marijuana has been used for medicinal purposes, like aiding HIV/AIDs patients, healing migraines and controlling nausea caused by chemotherapy. Today, there are currently 21 American states that have legalized medicinal marijuana including two states that have legalized recreational marijuana

The Effects Of Stress On Stress Management - 3217 Words

Abstract Stress is part of life and can be negative or positive. While a person does not always have control over the stressors in one’s life, he or she does have control over how one chooses to handle them. Stress management is a key element to having a rewarding, pleasant life. Recognizing the signs of oncoming stress or stressful situations, using techniques to eliminate or minimize the stress, and accepting that stress is an everyday human experience can help a person better deal with the effects. This paper explores the causes of stress and methods used to alleviate stress. Stress Management Introduction I have always had a tendency to be a stressful person, for as long as I can remember. It is my nature; I am a worrier, a perfectionist, and a Type A personality. I like to plan ahead and prepare. This is partly a result of my childhood experiences and family dynamics. My father never planned for anything. Consequently, when he had a heart attack at forty-six there was no back-up plan. My mother had always been a homemaker and had no marketable skills. My father decided to take early retirement instead of working the desk job the steel mill offered him and lived the rest of his life with no concern about his family or how they would survive. It was tough and still is. My father is gone, and my mother barely manages to survive. I decided that would never happen to me. I spent twenty years honing my songwriting skills back when there was the possibility it wouldShow MoreRelatedThe Effects Of Stress And Nutrition On Stress Management1852 Words   |  8 Pages Over the recent decades th e emerging importance that nutrition has on stress management in college students along with others has become a controversial topic all across different Universities and Public Institutions. 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If universities do not look into ways of helping students with stress management, than students are not only at risk ofRead MoreThe Effects Of Meditation On Stress Management1581 Words   |  7 Pages The Effects of Meditation in Stress Management Hannah Gray Amberton University Introduction Over the past few years, I have developed more and more stress in my life. I have issues with being overwhelmed and being anxious. Throughout this period of added stress and building anxiety, I have searched for ways to help manage those things. I wanted to be able to relax. I wanted to be able to focus, remain calm, and remain happy. I needed to do all of these things in order to beRead MoreStress Effects and Management Proposal Essay907 Words   |  4 PagesStress Effects and Management Proposal Debbie Cooper SCI/100 May 28, 2012 Stress Effects and Management Proposal How each individual chooses to relieve their level of stress is a purely personal matter. 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The effect of secure attachment self-efficacy, trait resilience on stress management stra tegiesRead MoreExploring the Therapeutic Effects of Yogic Techniques for Stress Management1284 Words   |  5 PagesThe topic I chose to focus on for my research Masters Project is â€Å"Exploring the therapeutic effects of yogic techniques for stress management†. I choose this topic because I am particularly interested in stress and anxiety-related mental and physical disorders with the use of yogic techniques. I also choose this topic as little is known about the beneficial effects of a yoga practice and self-care as an alternative to medication interventions. Within the area of Social Care, the use of yogic techniquesRead MoreAnnotated Bibliography on Stress1762 Words   |  7 Pagesdefinitions of stress and how to cope with it, known as stress management. Stress affects health in a number of ways. It is defined by James (2011) as pressure or tension that comes in many shapes and forms and furthermore the body and mind in particular reacts psychologically and even emotionally. How Stress Affects Health This can affect how an individual feels, think and behave. Signs and symptoms can include sleeping problems, loss of appetite and difficulty concentrating. Stress can usually causeRead MoreEssay on Stress Management649 Words   |  3 PagesStress Management Responses to stressors present different impacts on each individual. Stressors have a physical and psychological effect on people although some people seem to be much less effected by stress being able to withstand high levels of stress almost as if there daily lives depend on it. Even though it is accepted stress is with us from are waking moment to the minute we sleep, almost all individuals through time suffer physical or psychological illness. IndividualRead MoreThe Effects Of Stress On The Body798 Words   |  4 PagesStress Stress has no defined definition and cannot be measured. It varies across each individual. It can be either good stress or bad stress depending on the nature, extent and outcome. It can be a good stress if it is temporary, positive, motivational and helpful for an individual to accomplish more and can be a bad stress if it leads to mood swings and affects body systems. Stress is mostly commonly known as physical, emotional and mental disturbance of a human body. Things that are stressfulRead MoreTime Management Essay573 Words   |  3 Pagesdraws literature that discusses stress and time management in relation to leadership skills that subscribes to an embodied view of organisations. In Forsyth (2003), time management is about working actively to create efficiency and effectiveness in a way that makes achieving your target more likely. Good effective time management is a core skill, a differentiating factor which allows you to have an edge over other people (Williams amp; Cooper 2002). Time management is not optional; it is something

Public Relations Customers and Investors

Question: Discuss about the Public Relationsfor Customers and Investors. Answer: Introduction Proper relationship between the employees and employers is essential for success of an organization. How employees relate with each other is also crucial as well as the relationship between an organization and the public. Therefore, the concept of public relations comes forth in any business setup. Public relations (PR) is concerned with how a company or an organization communicates with the public as well as the media. Communication can be direct or indirect. In either case the aim of PR is to establish a strong relationship between the customers or the public and the organization. Communication can be in form of press releases, public appearances, online communication and newsletters. A good reputation can help a company thrive in this competitive world of businesses (Gandy, p. 131). Therefore, this paper discusses PR theories applied in businesses, Kristy Fraser-Kirk legal case against David Jones Ltd, PR errors made by this organization and how to handle issues arising from busin ess setup without damaging the companys image. PR Theories Public views on organization will determine its success or its failure. Proper strategies need to be put into place in ensuring the communication between the organization and the public is clear, unambiguous and honest. Making the public and other stakeholders understand why an organization operates as it does, saves the company from wrong critics. PR theories and models has brought more understanding and advancement in public relations field. It has enabled businesses to have good relationship with the public as well as operate in a more ethical manner. There are four public relations models developed by Grunig and Hunt. The press Agentry model that depends on behavior manipulation. The aim is to caption the attention of the public by influencing their opinions. It does not put into consideration accuracy and credibility. It does not seek the feedback of the customers. Its a one-way communication to persuade the public to buy the products and services of the company (Grunig, p. 83). Public information model which focusses on the accuracy of the information delivered to the public. Though it is a one-way communication, it indulges a little bit in doing research on the audience and it encourages ethical practices. Two Way Asymmetric Model focuses on the customers feedback. However, their intention is to influence audience altitude but not to improve operations of the organization. It creates unbalanced communication as their aim is to get into the public psychology so as to get an effective reaction. Two Way Symmetric Model- Its the most ethical model as it focuses on dialogue rather than monologue. The public feedback is used to change the operations of the organization (Kim et al., p. 208). They aim in achieving mutual understanding, mutual respect, negotiation and proper conflict resolution with the public. Kristy Fraser-Kirk Legal Case Against David Jones Ltd Cases of sexual harassment in workplace has always been there only that many people do not come out to report due to fear of intimidation. Fraser-Kirk was an employee of David Jones Ltd. She filed a legal case against her employer due to unwelcome sexual advances from Mark Mclnnes. She filed her claim under Sex Discrimination Act 1984 (SD Act), stating sex-based discrimination and unlawful sexual harassment (Judd, p. 11). Fraser-Kirk was suing a number of people in this company; David Jones Limited (her employer), Mark Mclnnes (Chief Financial Officer), Paul Zahra (who replaced Mclnnes after resigning) and all board members. This was the hugest Australias sexual harassment case which saw David Jones Ltd part with $850, 000. When to File Sexual harassment Claim It is unlawful in many countries for an employer to sexually harass an employee or for an employee to harass another employee. In Australia such allegations are forbidden under SD Act, section 28B (6) and anyone found guilty in the court of law is filed a huge penalty and imprisonment for many years. The complaint of sexual harassment has to prove beyond reasonable doubt that the penetrator has engaged in; unwelcome advances, conduct of sexual nature (Roberts and Mann, p. 5) and under the circumstances the act occurred it was humiliating, intimidating and offending to the complaint. PR Errors made by David Jones Limited The case filed by Kirsty Fraser-Kirk against David Jones Ltd, destroyed the reputation of this organization as well as causing them some financial losses. Since the top management knew about the behavior of Mark Mclnnes, they should have warned him when the first incident appeared. Given they were aware of sexual harassment conduct of Mclnnes previously, they could have prevented similar cases from happening if they had taken a disciplinary action against him. It should be clear that the employer is liable to such crimes given the perpetrator is connected with employer in terms of employment even if the acts happens away from workplace. David Jones also turned a blind eye on the matter and didnt realize the impact such cases would have on the reputation of the company. The company should have tried to handle the matter internally before letting them go public. They should have listened to Fraser-Kirk and dealt with McInnes. Turning a blind eye and ear to the junior employees creates a loop hole of destroying image of a company. Despite the fact that Mark McInnes was a superior man in the organization and had a considerable power over the junior employees, that did not give him mandate or opportunity to sexually harass them. The company had been known of the existence of the culture of sexual harassment. Therefore, if the company had put into consideration the feedback from the public, it could have prevented itself from this devastating issue. Fraser-Kirk claims she had reported the matter to public relations general manager of the company, Anne-Maree Kelly but she just dismissed her. She told her next time he (McInness) tries that she just has to say no and he would back off (Judd and Easteal, p. 1). It means the public relations manager did not perform her work effectively. If she did she wouldnt have taken the matter lightly. During the period Mclness was in David Jones Ltd, he was known by the female employees of his bad conduct due to his sexual harassment behavior and abusive language. The bullying took another approach in the company as it was adopted by other senior managers making the junior staff to be reluctant and afraid in raising concerns. The top management especially the PR team did not correct the senior employees and this affected the companys image. Ways the Company could have handled the Case. The fact that Fraser-Kirk had reported the matter to the public relations general manager, she should have called Mclnnes and warned him of the consequences that would befall him if he does not change. Turning a blind eye to issues that affects junior employees in an organization is not healthy to the growth of a company. The company should also have adopted the Two Way Symmetric Model of the PR theories. This model enables a company to build and improve on its image from the feedback it gathers from the public. The fact that Mclnnes behavior was known and he had sexually harassed several ladies before, they should have known eventually he would tarnish the whole image of the company. The company should also have aimed in improving the relationship between the junior and senior employees and teach the seniors to respect the juniors. Need for Business to Protect itself from Sexual harassment Claims Once an employee harasses another employee, she can sue both the employer and the perpetrator. To avoid such cases therefore, an organization should protect itself from getting caught up in such scenarios. Proper policies and strategies should be in place to protect themselves from any potential risks that may arise from sexual harassment claims. Sexual harassment is increasing in workplace now days due to increased moral decay in the society. An organization should therefore have rules and regulations governing the employees behavior and conduct in the workplace. Proper policies that should be adhered strictly by the employees can guard from such unethical behavior. An organization should define sexual harassment and give examples of sexual harassment to its employees. It should indicate how to prevent occurrence of sexual harassment and the procedure of making a complaint in case it happens (McDonald et al., p. 53). An organization should also indicate the role of management in preventing such cases from happening. These rules should be clearly indicated and available to every employee. If an organization incorporates these policies in terms of employment, then it would be safe since every employee will be required to put a signature as a confirmation he/she read and understood them. If David Jones Ltd had such policies, it would not suffer from Mclnnes bad behavior. Conclusion Public relations aim to protect and boost the image of a company. Having qualified and proper PR management will ensure success of an organization. Employees and managers should be trained on suitable workplace behavior and how to relate with each other. Appropriate policies to deal with sexual harassment complaints should be adopted by every organization so as to prevent such issues from reaching the public hence destroying the organizations image. References Gandy Jr, O.H., 2013. Public relations and public policy: The structuration of dominance in the information age. Rhetorical and Critical Approaches to Public Relations II, p. 131. Grunig, L.A., 2013. Toward the philosophy of public relations. Rhetorical and critical approaches to public relations, pp.65-91. Judd, K. and Easteal, P., 2013. Media Reportage of Sexual Harassment: The (In) credible Complainant. Denning LJ, 25, p.1. Judd, K., 2016. Sexual harassment law in Australia. Legaldate, 28(3), p.11. Kim, J.N., Hung-Baesecke, C.J.F., Yang, S.U. and Grunig, J.E., 2013. A strategic management approach to reputation, relationships, and publics: The research heritage of the excellence theory. The handbook of communication and corporate reputation, pp.197-212. McDonald, P., Charlesworth, S. and Graham, T., 2015. Developing a framework of effective prevention and response strategies in workplace sexual harassment. Asia Pacific Journal of Human Resources, 53(1), pp.41-58. Roberts, B.S. and Mann, R.A., 2015. Sexual harassment in the workplace: A primer. Akron Law Review, 29(2), p.5.

Investment in the Food Processing Industry Essay Example

Investment in the Food Processing Industry Essay Investment in the Food Processing Industry Few industries are as broad as the food processing industry, but Bangladesh does well on all fronts: confectionery as well as organic, frozen, and chilled foods. Our market – one of Asia’s largest – brings almost every international food player here. This strength is only expected to improve as consumption trends and the good reputation of our products promise higher future sales. For investors, too, the time is ripe. A fragmented, pre-consolidation industry allows investors access to the market, its distribution channels, and its technological capabilities. Bangladesh has a well-established food processing sector, which relies on domestic agricultural production and is oriented mainly to domestic needs. It includes sugar refining and milling, production of edible oils, processing and preserving of fruits and fruit juices as well as fish processing, especially shrimp and prawns. As a tropical country Bangladesh has a plentiful domestic supply of exotic fruits and sea species. We have decided to take Processed Fruit Products as our industry item. Targeting the upper and upper middle class consumers of the major cities as more and more people live in the cities far away from where food is grown and produced food. In many families the adults are working away from home and therefore there is little time for purchasing fresh fruits and make any item out of that. The Fruit Processing Business model: The Theme: We have selected processed food industry for our analysis. We are focusing on the processed fruit segment. Our idea is to establish Fruit Processing Centers at different places of the city. We will write a custom essay sample on Investment in the Food Processing Industry specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Investment in the Food Processing Industry specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Investment in the Food Processing Industry specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer The place would be something like a refreshing corner for the customers just after a tiring journey, or place where they can think of visiting at a break from the days work. The centers will sell different seasonal fresh fruit juice along with young coconut water, milkshake, etc. they can also have different dried fruits and fruit salads. Customers can have it sitting at the juice corner; again they can take away to home for having the item later. Logic of the business: Nowadays customers are moving toward healthy products. They are more and more conscious towards avoiding cholesterol and thus try to avoid junk foods as much as they can. But usually it is tough to find a food corner where health conscious items are instantly available. Lots of people love different sorts of seasonal juicy fruits, but they are quite bored with have it at home in a regular way. Some are again okay with having fruits at home but definitely they would love to have it after a tiring task outside home, near their workplace. For example, students after a long lecture session or exam would love to have a glass of fresh juice if it’s presented in clean and delicious way. People at office would love to have a juicy break after a meeting or at any office break. What these customer groups are having now around them? Just regular fruits sold at regular manner. They may not feel to buy and then peel it off to have it. They may be even conscious about cleanliness. They are absolutely not a position to prepare fresh juice by themselves even if they want. They can have at best clinically processed and preserved juices at stores. But there is no readily available corner where consumers can have processed delicious fresh fruit items, which can serve as both refreshment and nutritious recipes for them. So FRUITY FRESH would be there to supply something real fresh and delicious. Brand name ‘FRUITY FRESH’: The target is to establish brand name FRUITY FRESH. To fulfill this objective all outlets would have to decorate similarly. A logo needs to work out, which will be seen everywhere at signage, advertisement, inside the outlet, even at tissue papers that would be served to customers. Special crockery with the logo would have to order that would be used for customers. The workers and sellers of outlets would have to have specific dresses (with logo symbolized) to serve the customers. The idea is to spread the feel of FRUITY FRESH towards consumers mind. The target is to establish the outlets to that extent where customers would feel same at any outlet of FRUITY FRESH. The name would serve as identity of the business in the market. Customers will be thrilled to visit the place to get refreshed; on weekdays, being tired to feel rejuvenated and on weekends to hang out with family and friends. Demographics of the target customers: The target customers are the upper, upper middle class and middle class customers, who seek quality over price. In case of education, occupation and income, they tend to be closely correlated in almost a cause-and-effect relationship. So, our target customers are desired to have good educational backgrounds that may be working or may not be working. Students of private universities, shoppers, office employees are special segment. Business Units: To enter into the industry we need to chalk out a plan first on how to do the business. Business units will be like following: -Central Administrative office -Selling outlets at different places of Dhaka city. Central Administrative Office: The central administrative office would be responsible for all sorts of planning and executing plans through the selling outlets. This centre would take care of: -Value chain management activities, including – oPurchasing of machinery oPurchasing of raw materials oProcessing of canned juice, coconut milk, fruit candy bar, etc. oTimely distributing of raw materials to the outlets, etc. -Financial management and accounting activities including oForecasting oBudgeting, oRecording and reporting oCash management -Marketing activities like Surveys and market research oBranding advertising etc Additionally it will be also responsible for all sorts of administrative and human resource management works – from premise maintenance to recruiting of correctly qualified human resource to different places. Selling Outlets Primarily there would be five outlets through out the Dhaka city. The places can be as follows: -Banani (Kemal Attatuk Avenue) -Gulsh an 1 -Uttara -Dhanmondi (Riffles Square) -Bashundhara City Shop opens at 10:00 am, ends at 8:00 pm, or whatever highest government allows. The outlets would serve customers from different sectors for their different needs. In these outlets customers can both have them instantly and again can take it away for have it later. Sitting arrangements of 20 people at a time would be there. The outlets would have some shelf items too. These are mainly canned juice, canned coconut milk, canned fruits, dried fruits like nuts, dates, etc. Customers would get fruits in these outlets depends on season as well as availability. Premise Decoration Selling outlets would be painted in soothing colors. Cleanliness of premise would be at utmost preference. The goal is to â€Å"Customers will have to feel cool light just after entering by looking at a clean nicely decorated place†. Sufficient lights will have to be there. Glass built areas will have to clean hourly. Instant cleaning people will have to there for this sort of service. Though it will increase little cost, but it will attract customers to visit the place again and again. If after a tiring journey or being overloaded at office they can breathe well while having a glass of juice, they will try to go there frequently. They will happily refer to friends family regarding the place. Products Instant consumable items: oLemon / lime juice oYoung coconut water oSeasonal fresh fruit juice oMilkshake oCoffee oTea oMineral water oDried fruits oMango Candy oFruit Salad Take away items oCanned fruit juice (seasonally) oCanned coconut milk oCanned Milk shake oMineral water oDried fruits oFruit Candy As the outlets are serving mainly as juice corner, other items would be limited in some aspects. There would be fruit salad, where customers can have a desired mix of fruits. Again there would some set mix of fruits which can be chosen. Fruit category will depend on season and availability. One special item of these outlets is coconut. Young coconut water is very popular to people of all age group. It instantly refreshes all from their tiredness. So FRUITY FRESH would be there to serve coconut water. A cleanly processed coconut, with a colorful straw in it – would give them a feel of freshness just after looking at it. Again in our culture coconut milk adds a new taste in recipe. So readily processed coconut milk served in can, would relief its desired customer group. It will save their time and effort at home. Besides regular items on fruit, tea, coffee, mineral water, soft drinks etc would be available. Dried fruits of several kinds would be there in pack form. Different fruits would be served as candy bar. In our culture, mango bar is very popular to people of different age category. Presentation of products: The presentation of juice and other items would be exclusive. Branded glass and crockery will be used. The fruits itself would be used to decorate the item. For example, there would be a slice of lime with lemon juice. The juice content would be clear, simply looking fresh and chill. The presentation itself would make the brand a exclusive one. Expertise from chefs will add a new look in items. Uniqueness of presentation will add an extra point to bring customers towards FRUITY FRESH. Raw materials requirements As the business implies, fruits are the main raw materials. The FRUITY FRESH will be real choosy to select fruits from its vendors. The fruits have to be fresh enough to serve after few hours. Other than fruits some items would be required regularly. These can be sugar, vinegar for salad, milk for tea, coffee, shakes, etc. Necessary items would have to purchase from vendors offering competitive prices. Other requirements: All outlets will have to have juicer machine, blender machine, coffee makers, etc. machinery items sufficiently. Crockery items, cleaning items, tissue papers, paper cups (as required) are needed. All sorts of items need to be purchased from local markets having good quality and in competitive prices. Michael Porter’s 5 Forces Analysis: Bargaining power of Suppliers: Suppliers of raw materials, components, and services (such as expertise) to the firm can be a source of power over the firm. Suppliers may refuse to work with the firm, or e. g. charge excessively high prices for unique resources. But in case of the fruit processing industry we found the following points. -The basic raw material of Fruit Processing industry is Fruit. As the production and export of Fruits is not controlled or syndicated in Bangladesh, we feel there will be minimal possibility of hard bargain on the part of the suppliers. -Again as we are not going to focus on one specific fruit rather will try to inherit a seasonal flavor in the production, the possibility of facing a supply crisis is minimized. Fruit processing machineries of good quality are easily available at a competitive price from different international suppliers. -A good number of vendors are available to supply crockery and stationeries with the logo. Bargaining power of Customers: The ability of customers to put the firm under pressure and it also affects the customers sensitivity to price changes. -In terms of Buyer vs. Seller concentration this industry will be on the winning side as there are very few Fruit processing units in the country producing demandable quality products. And the demand for processed fruit is growing amongst the target consumers. As the target consumer group will not be willing to compromise quality and hygiene for price, there will be less threat to overcome the cost of product. -Most of the product will be of the shelf products. The threat of substitute products The existence of close substitute products increases the propensity of customers to switch to alternatives in response to price increases (high elasticity of demand). But, -There is no substitute product for fresh fruits, other than the substitution amongst the different verities of fruits. But as the seasonal fruits of are unique in taste there is little chance of one being substituted by the other. The other threat is from the differential process mechanism of the fruit and the way it is being presented. -Substitute pro ducts threatening the proposed project: cold drinks (e. g. Fanta, Mirinda), instant drinks (e. g. Tang, Foster Clerk) etc. The threat of the entry of new competitors Profitable markets that yield high returns will draw firms. The result is many new entrants, which will effectively decrease profitability. Unless the entry of new firms can be blocked by incumbents, the profit rate will fall towards a competitive level (perfect competition). And this industry is no different. -Fruit processing industry has very few players in Bangladesh and it is a growing industry there will be little or no restriction for new competitors to enter into the business. -The supply channel is wide enough to accommodate new entrants -The consumer size is more than the seller size so the entrants may well be playing a supporting role rather than a threatening role. The intensity of competitive rivalry For most industries, this is the major determinant of the competitiveness of the industry. Sometimes rivals compete aggressively and sometimes rivals compete in non-price dimensions such as innovation, marketing, etc. In this case the main competition will be on, -Quality of products -Freshness of raw material i. e. Fruits -Price of products -Variety of products -Presentation of the products -Location and reach The existing competitors are, oThe local packed juice producing companies (e. g. Pran, Sheezan) oThe international packed juice producing companies (e. g. Frooti, Tropicana) oExisting outlets providing of-the-counter fresh fruit juice. oLocal packed processed fruit products like Pran Mango Bar. Conclusion: From the Porter’s Five Forces Analysis presented above, it is seen that this business has a high potential for profitability and growth. Bargaining power of supplier and threat of substitute product is not a matter of concern. Entry of new competitors is the main threat to be considered as it will increase the intensity of the competitive rivalry as well as bargaining power of the customers day by day. However, exploiting the opportunity as the first mover, building a strong brand and increasing the number of outlets in prime locations will ensure a sustainable growth of the business.

Intro Black Diaspora Research Paper free essay sample

Galena Western society left an imprint in the African American culture within the Americas, it affected the religious practices, music, and language of enslaved Africans used from the moment they stepped foot In the Americas. These affects are even felt In present African America culture within the music that we listen to, the foods we eat, and the way our churches function. Even though the main goal of the white slavers was to completely subdue African culture, they were not successful.The transformation that the African culture went through allowed for Africans incorporating their indigenous cultures in the force fed western culture they inhabited. The main thing that was affected by western society was the African religious practices. With the Invasion of the Europeans and the Americans, Judo- Christianity and Catholicism were sure to follow. Africans were not allowed to hold onto their traditional spiritual practices forcing them to accept the ideas of the Judo- Christian and Catholic faiths. We will write a custom essay sample on Intro Black Diaspora Research Paper or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Africans did not give up their own faith but blended their faiths into the religion being pushed onto them. From this new form of partiality that they created within their communities, African Americans had covertly continued to practice the key aspects of their Indigenous traditions; as shown through the practices of Voodoo in New Orleans and within the traditions of the Black Churches of today. They used spirituals, formally named Negro Spirituals, to communicate messages and to sustain them, through the harsh treatment.According to Jesus Couch Garlics article Demystifying Africans Absence in Venezuelan History and Culture, African cultures In the Americas, rather than unit but superficial folklore, are cultures of resistance based on African philosophical principles that we must rediscover. That persist and reshape themselves as time passes and as changes occur in our communities. (this may need to be fixed) Garcia describes the African culture as a culture of resistance meaning the Africans that entered did not give up their culture but disguised their culture underneath that of the western culture so that it would live on and survive.Religion is still a major aspect in the African American community. The black church has always played a major role In sustaining the African community as well as resisting the oppression of whites, from the Negro spirituals of slavery time to the organization of the African American community during the Civil Rights era. The black church has aspects of it that speak of its African past. Speaking in tongues, funeral rites and rituals, and catching the spirit, are all aspects of the African culture that was preserved in the Judo-Christian practices.This spiritualism Includes the practice of Condonable and Sanitaria that allowed for Afric ans to retain their ultra. Through religion was a major cultural aspect that was affected by western society, the development of African music and languages were also affected by western society. One of the most notable aspects of African culture that was affected by western society is music. Even in the churches, music played a major role in the sustaining of their communities and resisting oppression. In Joseph E.Harris article The Dynamic of the Global Diaspora he explains how music had the effect of unifying and organizing Africans saying, Neither the Middle Passage nor the slave raciest (Condonable and Sanitaria especially), songs, and oral traditions. Their culture and aspirations for freedom were expressed in different forms (songs, poetry, religion) and were sometimes employed to solidify mass followers in resistance movements.. . The impact that western society had on the music and oral traditions of Africans, was the complete opposite of what it set out to do.Instead of taking away these aspects of the culture, whites only succeed in inspiring a form of music that held messages of freedom and rebellion. Music and other forms of artistic expression such as poetry were very effective during slavery in rebellion against the oppression of slavery but also during the civil rights era and even today in the 21st century. Music is a universal form of communication; it was used to send messages to maroon societies, autonomous slaves that escaped captivity, and to bring the communities together.During the civil rights era music was used to unite, speak the feelings of the community, and to inspire the community, while they fought against the inequality that prevailed in the U. S. Modern African Americans influence in the USIA industry does still show the use of lyricism to express the unequal experiences within the African American community, as shown in rap when the speak about urban life, or in rhythm and blues when the speak of heartaches and love. The progression of African influenced music may not be created in the same context as they were originally developed but the ideas and effects are the same.Religion and music are only two aspects of the African culture that was affected by western society; language was also affected by western culture. Being so removed from the elites of slaver and the Africans that were enslaved, many African Americans of today do not realize that the use of Ebonies, or slang as it is called, is the evidence of western societies affects on African language. Ebonies to many people it is viewed as uneducated and a sign of illiteracy, but it is really a way of talking that is shortened and simple.This language is still prevalent in todays society among the African American community creating a common understood form of speaking within the community that unifies the African American community. The affects that western society has had on African culture are still widely seen in the African American community. It can be seen in our religious practices, the way that we speak and the music that is made. Even though they have an affected these aspects of the African American community I am not, I any way, shape or form giving them credit for those aspects of African American culture.I am stating that because of the conditions of western society Africans had to creatively merge their own culture with that of their oppressors. Through this pressure placed on them to forget their traditions and ultras, these Africans decided to bury important aspects of their culture in the beliefs and traditions of western society. They buried their warrior spirits in the music and their spiritualism in the Christianity and Catholicism, and their language in the English.So, yes they affected the African culture but it in turned created another culture, the African American culture that still keep African Americans linked to that African culture. The author gave a As it relates to music and the cultural impacts that western society has had on African musical traditions. How were the rotational rhythms and beats and how are those beats rhythms and vocal styles still, in this modern age being reflected in the musical genres dominated and largely Even with the development of hip hop music in todays modern society; hip-hop still has traces of its West African origins.As stated by the author of the article History of hip-hop, The roots of hip hop are found in African American and West African music. The grits of West Africa are a group of traveling singers and poets, whose musical style is reminiscent of hip-hop and who are part of an oral tradition dating back hundreds of years. The author of the article explains that hip-hop, like other African American dominated genres of music, they have roots in the grits oral traditions of West Africa.The ways in which the African American musical influence has impacted pop cultured and various other aspects of the American culture. Hip-hop, rap and other forms of African American music influenced music. Were not Just staples of American culture, it influenced and set the tone for many trends within pop culture as well as impacted varies social movements within America. As stated by the author of the article Black Music and social change in America, Elvis Presley, a strikingly handsome and emotive white singer, was the deliverer.In 1956 when he appeared on television singing many songs that were originally performed by blacks, he sparked like Little Richard, Fats Domino, and Sam Cooke became household names and inspired legions of followers, both black and white. The author of the article explains that music from African Americans during the time of the civil rights movement, their music had an impact in how people looked at them, and it started with one man trying to make a preference by singing a different song.It was when Elvis Presley started singing songs that were originally African Americans songs, when people of all colors began to listen and fall in love with, the black feel for music. As it pertains to religion speak on the topics of the various traditional African religious belief (briefly not too long) and the presence of these aspect s in the modern African American church and the ways in which African American spirituality has developed and evolved due to western influence. Most of the Africans that were forced or came to America came room these 6 religions in West Africa.Voodoo/Miami Watt, Voodoo, baobab, Kong, Sugar Asset society. Within the United States the presences of these various six religious practices are still impacting the various cultures in southern states within the country. Areas such as New Orleans, Louisiana have prominent histories of practicing voodoo that have a lot of negative stigmas that go along with it. Voodoo originally based off of its West African roots was meant to be a religion that worshiped the ancestors and animism. Voodoo beliefs spread from Africans shores to America on slave ships.

The Effect of Drug X on Self

The Effect of Drug X on Self Introduction Anxiety forms part of an individual’s body mechanisms in which it communicates that something or an act is wrong and hence, there is need to undertake corrective measures (Aleksovski, 2009). This sign has been categorised as one of the essential human survival tactics as it ensures individual wellbeing. An anxious individual can describe the act as jittery, nervous, jumpy, confusion, and nervous, among other feelings.Advertising We will write a custom proposal sample on The Effect of Drug X on Self-Reports of Anxiety in a Sample of Undergraduate Psychology Majors specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More On the other hand, stress is a behavioral mechanism that occurs to the human body as a result of the change in either internal or external environment of the individual (Aleksovski, 2009). A student who is preparing for examination can be subjected to stress. Drugs have been developed with the aim of suppressing an individu al’s level of stress thus reducing anxiety levels among patients or students (Putwain, 2005). The purpose of this research is to investigate the effects of a new drug on perceptions of anxiety in order to reduce feelings of stress and anxiety in college students during scheduled exams. There are a number of past studies that have been carried out by psychologists in a view to study stress, anxiety, their relations, major causes, and how they can be prevented. In a study carried by Dr. Susannah Murphy, a neuroscientist in the University of Oxford found out that there is a closer relationship between antidepressants and anxiety (Nauert, 2010). The study also revealed that the use of antidepressants had an immediate effect on the neurotransmitters in the brain. However, it was concluded that some drugs responded faster than others in the reduction of anxiety among human beings. Studies that have been carried on animals (mice) which have artificially been induced to stress and th en given the antidepressants drugs have shown that the drugs reduce stress (Ito, Nagai, Oikawa, Yamada Hanawa, 2011). Students waiting for exams are induced to artificial stress and as a result, they are prone to anxiety. This conclusion can be made based on past studies in order to support the current research paper. The emotional wellbeing of students plays a great role in ensuring that students do well in their school tests and examinations. On the other hand, stress is believed to cause perceived anxiety among school children which is an emotional feeling (Putwain, 2005). Research studies have been carried to determine the drugs that are often used suppress stress as a step towards the reduction of stress anxiety on students.Advertising Looking for proposal on psychology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More It is important to note that prolonged stress can cause clinical depressions among students (National Institut e of Mental Health n. d.). This results from pressure to pass exams and from parents and teachers who also expect better grades from their children and students, respectively. Students can go for a very long time without ever knowing that they are stressed out. The research study hypothesis is that that experimental drug X will produce an increase in the perceived anxiety on students. The dependant variable which is the experiment research outcome is the behavioral effect that the experimental drug produces when injected on the students. On the other hand, the independent variable of the hypothesis is the experimental drug X which is injected to the subjects under the study. The research study aims at proving that indeed the new drug X can be used to suppress educational stress thus leading to anxiety reduction. The unique aspect of the study is that it projects the application of the use of antidepressants on students rather than health adults. Previous studies have dealt largely o n family people, patients, and workers. In contrast, this study specializes on undergraduate students of the ages between 21 and 25 years old. Another aspect worth of consideration is that it derives its foundation on the studies that have already been carried out, making the expected outcomes more reliable and dependable. The previous studies have been based on placebo and specific drug tests; however, this particular study applies the specific drug while the control group is not subjected to any form of drugs. Lastly, past researches have been carried in laboratories or hospitals but this one is carried on a classroom setting. The study offers an educational and psychological breakthrough in establishing the relationship that exists between examinations and perceived anxiety among students. It would be possible to use the results in future consultation for the purpose of averting stress among students. Method Participants The proposed research study intends to use human participan ts from the undergraduate psychology class population. A sample of 30 students would be enough for the study. The students will have special characteristics as they are supposed to be of between 21 and 25 years old. The students will be from the same year of study and the issue of race and color will be considered.Advertising We will write a custom proposal sample on The Effect of Drug X on Self-Reports of Anxiety in a Sample of Undergraduate Psychology Majors specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More This would ensure that data from different demographical backgrounds and statuses is collected. They also need to have been studying very hard towards their examination. Out of the 30 students 15 will be male and 15 will be female. The students will voluntarily participate in the study and to get their attention, a notice will be placed in the psychology class notice board and the school website. It will also be passed on through Facebook and Tw itter as they are easy means of communication and interaction. The message will entail the expected benefits of the drug X one used. It is believed to reduce anxiety and stress among students. The drug X has been found fit by the national bureau of food stuffs and drugs. Supposing the participants respond rate is more than 100% or over 30, for example 60, then systematic sampling will be used. Their names will be arranged alphabetically before subjecting them to selection. The 60 subjects will be divided by 30 to get 2, where every second, fourth, sixth up to thirtieth subject is reached and recorded. The sequence will be followed, recording the subjects until a sample of 30 participants was reached at. Upon the approval of their consent and that of the institution to carry out the study, the subjects will be ready for the experimental study. No form of motivating the students to participate in study shall be applied as the study is purely voluntary. Lastly, all participants will be provided with an informed consent that must be completed in order to participate. Apparatus Based on the nature of the study, the research will require questionnaires, drug X, drug delivery mechanism, and examination papers. The applicability of these apparatus is discussed more in a precise and elaborate manner under the design and procedure. Design and Procedure Because of the requirements and the nature of the study, the researcher has deemed it necessary to make use of experiment study design. The study will be carried by a single researcher who is me using the theoretical framework and learning gained from the psychology class.Advertising Looking for proposal on psychology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More However, research assistants will be used when the need be and where necessary. The proposed study involves two levels of independent variables. The two levels of independent variables that will be used include a control group where no drug tablets use and specific dose of drug X. The study will use two groups where one will be a control group (Group B) and the experimental group (Group A). To make the study simple and viable, the two groups will be divided on the basis of gender parity. For the control group, 8 females and 7 males will be used while 7 females and 8 males will be used in the experimental group. The study will be carried on the same time simultaneously. However the subjects will be placed in different rooms. Group A will be given the tablet of new drug X and placed in an examination room with a 10 minutes exam. The subjects can swallow or chew the drugs. However, in this case, the subjects will be required to chew the tablet to allow quick absorption in the blood mai nstream. They will be issued with issued with a test after a period of thirty minutes to ensure that the drug has been absorbed in the blood mainstream. They will be observed for any form of anxiousness so as to aid in supporting the collected information using the survey tools. After the exam they will be administered with a self report survey to measure the effects of the drugs on the participants’ anxiety and stress levels. The same procedure will simultaneously be carried on the control group (Group B) only that they will be not be given drug X. it should be noted that the experiments will be carried in the same time to avoid any participants interactions (from the two different groups). This would reduce the chances of having Hawthorne effect which subjects study to biasedness. Data collection To collect data under the self report survey, survey tools will be used. A well designed questionnaire will be distributed to each participant in the two research experimental grou ps. The questionnaires will have well structured questions that are not leading and ones that would require easy and simple answers. The reason why questionnaire will be used is because of its applicability in terms of efficiency and effectiveness, it is also cheap, reliable, and it collects data which can be used for in depth analysis. Surveys allow reliability and validity because of their standardized nature. The collected data will be compiled and responses that will be similar in either wording or implications will be grouped together. The grouped data and information will then labeled using digits that would be easily subjected to SPSS for analysis. The data and information was later evaluated. Data Analysis The survey data will undergo thorough analysis process. The raw data that has undergone weighting and labeling will be recorded and stored in a computer ready for analysis. Using different data analysis software, the data will undergo SPSS analysis. Descriptive statistics will be generated where the similarity in collected data will be found. The measurements of the data will be expressed as measures of variability and those of tendency. On the measures of central tendency, mode, mean, and median will be calculated in order to describe the data distribution. On the other hand, measures of variability will be subjected to standard deviation and variance calculation. This will determine the spread of the scores of the collected data on the certain behaviors under the study. Lastly, the final data will involve, hypothesis testing is conducted using inferential statistics. The hypothesis testing will determine whether the hypothesis is supported or nullified. It will be carried based on the different variables used in the study. This will form a basis from where discussion of the results and conclusion will be made. Reference List Aleksovski, G. (2009). Anxiety symptoms. Web. Ito, N., Nagai, T., Oikawa, T., Yamada, H., Hanawa, T. (2011). Antidepressant- like Effect of l-perillaldehyde in Stress-induced Depression-like Model Mice through Regulation of the Olfactory Nervous System. Web. Nauert, R. (2010). Some antidepressants work fast for anxiety. Web. National Institute of Mental Health. (n.d.). Depression and College Students What do these students have in common? Web. Putwain, D. (2005). Researching academic stress and anxiety in students: Some methodological considerations. British Educational Research Journal, 33(2), 207-219.

The Role of Food in Understanding Chinese Culture Assignment

The Role of Food in Understanding Chinese Culture - Assignment Example Hierarchically, culture is a significant factor that divides food variability. Individuals’ with the same culture share same eating habits. As a result, they share the same food variables assemblage. Individuals belonging to distinct cultures share different food variables assemblage (Chang 1). This is a clear proof that food choices vary from culture to culture. Within similar cultures, food homogeneity is not mandatory. As a matter of fact, there exist a small range of food variable manifestations in various social situations. Individuals belonging to distinct occupations or social classes eat differently. People in mourning, on festive occasions or on routine occasions consume differently. Different eating codes are upheld by different religious sect. In various life stages, women and men eat differently. The eating differences might be as a result of taste preferences, but some are determined by an individual culture. Explaining these differences, identifying and relating them to other social life facets are of great significance. The availability of natural resources determines the food style of a culture. That is the main reason why the Chinese food is characterized by the animals and plants assemblages that have existed in their land for a long period of time. Thus, the purpose of this paper is to elucidate the role of food in understanding Chinese culture. Role of food in understanding Chinese culture Chinese cooking involves the combination of food stuffs. For example spices, meats, fruits, vegetables, legumes and starch staples. In the category of spices we have the ginger, red pepper, cinnamon and spring onion, for meats we have dog, pork, mutton, beef, chicken, goose, venison, fishes and pheasant, with fruits we have the apricot, peach, plum, apple, pear, jujube date, mountain haw, orange, litchi and longan, under vegetables we have Chinese cabbage, amaranth, malva, turnip, mushroom, radish and mustard green, legumes consists of broad bean, s oybean, mung bean and peanut and lastly starch staples comprises of rice, millet, maize, wheat, sweet potato and kao-liang. Given the fact that ingredients varies from culture to culture, Chinese foods have a local attribute due to the used ingredients. It is not efficient and effective to use ingredients for purposes of characterization; however, they can be used as a good start. With regards to food, Chinese are not that nationalistic as they do not resist imports. This is evidenced by the presence of foreign foodstuffs adoption since the beginning of history. Goats, sheep and wheat were perhaps brought into China in the prehistoric time from Western Asia, whilst many vegetables and fruits came into the country from Central Asia. Furthermore, sweet potatoes and peanuts originated from the coastal traders (Jacques 135). As a result, all these ingredients became part and parcel of Chinese food. Up to date, dairy products and milk have not occupied a place that is prominent in the Ch inese cuisine. In comparison to other food traditions, the Chinese culture of preparing food from ingredients that are raw to morsels that can be eaten involves the combination of interrelated and complex variables. Shopping for fresh fruits on daily basis is significant for all the cooking in China. Unlike the United States fast food society, live sea food, vegetables and seasonal fruits are often selected to ensure freshness. In that case, snappy crabs,

John Lasseter Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

John Lasseter - Essay Example This artist has been developing his skills of drawing cartoons from his childhood. His mother was an art teacher and John has often tried to incarnate his vision in animation. When he went to the church together with his family, he drew cartoons. He was amazed by Chuck Jones cartoons on TV and rushed home after school in order to watch these cartoons. In high school John was interested in reading the book â€Å"The Art of Animation† by Bob Thomas (Paik, 2007). Thus his decision to become an animator was growing in his heart for years. Finally, he entered California Institute of the Arts and was a student of a new animation course. He was taught by Disney’s outstanding masters, such as Eric Larson, Frank Thomas and others. His first animation films were Lady and the Lamp (1979) and Nightmare (1980) (Paik, 2007). Lasseter won prizes for his first animation films. He joined Disney but after 101 Dalmatians Lasseter claimed that it was the largest masterpiece of this Studio and suggested to introduce some innovations. In the beginning of 80s Lasseter became interested in computer graphics. Lasseter felt a great potential of computer animation and propagated the idea that computers could be helpful in making movies with three dimensional backgrounds. His guidance was the book by Thomas Disch â€Å"The Brave Little Toaster† (Paik, 2007). â€Å"Where the Wild Things Are† was the first project where Lasseter and his followers decided to introduce computer graphics innovations. Unfortunately, producers saw no benefits and Lasseter was fired from Disney. It is possible to note, that all geniuses were not acclaimed at once. A process of acknowledgement requires time and patience and hard work from genius. Lasseter followed this line and step by step reached the heights in the sphere of his dream, short film animation. Lasseter rushed into searching of co-thinker, followers and professionals from computer industry. His first animation film â€Å"The

Engineering and Construction. Four Categories of Construction Research Paper

Engineering and Construction. Four Categories of Construction - Research Paper Example Therefore, construction would encompass activities such as site clearance and preparation, excavation, and landscaping that are related to the construction work. Among the structures that are often constructed are buildings, walls, masts, towers, structural cable, bridges, highways, and telecommunication structures (Hornbostel, 1991). Moreover, public facilities, infrastructures, and underground works such as tunnels and pipelines are also some of the structures that are constructed. Depending on the activities and processes involved and the type of structure developed, construction is categorized into residential, industrial, engineering, and building construction (Auer et al., 2007). For instance, the industrial category of construction entails the installation of industrial plants and facilities such as oil refineries and sugar factories. On the other hand, the residential category of construction refers to the construction of family homes and other family projects. However, there are other minor categories of construction such as infrastructure, institutional, and pre-engineered categories of construction. A vital point to note is that each category of construction has specific requirements in terms of plans, designs, materials, and funding. This paper explores the four main categories of construction, which are residential, industrial, engineering, and building construction. ... Nevertheless, in situations where property owners are experienced and conversant with building construction, careful and detailed planning has always ensured positive outcome of building construction projects. In the building construction of commercial buildings, private or public procurement methodologies such as cost estimation, price negotiation, management contracting and design-build bridging are applied (Hornbostel, 1991). An important characteristic of building construction is that it entails the assembly of structures for the provision of shelters. The construction of building is in fact, an ancient activity that man has undertaken since time immemorial. The adverse effects of harsh climates on man are perhaps the origin of building construction since man had to moderate or eliminate these effects of climate. Building construction is thus a means by which man seeks to adapt to the environment. The different climatic zones that people inhabit on earth have led to the designing of different buildings by man. In addition, there are the economic aspects of building construction and design that have greatly influenced the building construction industry in the world. Just like any other economic products, building construction materials and products command certain ranges of prices/costs and values to customers or clients. The other economic or cost-related elements of building construction are the security systems and protection requirements. Most important in this regard is the physical security of a property. In recent times, it has become a necessity, due to the increased security technologies, for property owners and

Influences of Japanese Design on Western Architecture

Influences of Japanese Design on Western Architecture In what ways did the Traditional Architecture and Design of Japan Influence Western Architecture at the turn of the Twentieth Century? Japanese architecture was begun in 57 B.C. Before this time period the majority structures were pit dwellings. In early times Japans architecture was influenced by Korean architecture. The Korean historian have given evidence at time of 57 and 665 B.C in creating original buildings. At that time they built stones which includes Iksan and Miruka. Timber buildings were also made at that time. They were found in underground caves of Samschlich-ong, Yodongsonachong, and Yaksuri. The Japanese architecture tradition is based on the wooden structures of timber, for making Japan attractive they have used little stones for carving. The Japan in the fifth century was fully developed of wood. Architects have designed with gables, saddle roofs, styles and designs. Because the Islands of Japanese architecture are of volcainic origin. The best examples of Japanese architecture is the shrines of the Shinto . After every twenty years they rebuilt these shirnes , the most famous shrine is The Ise Shrine (55 x 127 yards) of the Shinto shrine. Its columns made up from cypress trees , four concentric fences, and the traditional thatched roof, it conveys the message of simplicity and purity. The styles of shrines shows both modern and domestic architecture , the Western architecture were fully influenced from Japanese Architecture. The history of architecture is interesting ,but the Tadao Ando designs forced to undergo Japanese architecture. The westerns has followed their way of structure. 1. WOODEN SINGLE STOREY STRUCTURE: The Japanese architecture is characterized from wooden single storey structure. The main lacking of this tradition is the cave dwellings and stone walls, the nation has not changed their traditional style . In the mid of sixth century ,the Buddhist architecture entered in Japan from China and Korea. The shrine architecture is regarded by the Buddhist architecture which represents the typical wooden single storey structure. The wooden structure is based on posts and beams, its structure from inside is dark that does not suits the human being, the Japanese architecture allows light and breeze, so that there outside area is opened. REFERENCE LIST: http://www.uk.emb-japan.go.jp http://iainmasterton.photoshelter.com CANTILEVER PRINCIPLE: According to the western techniques, material and the styles into Meiji Japan was based on steel and concrete structure. In modern sky scrapers, Japan played an important role because of its familiarity with the cantilever principle to support the heavy tiled temple roofs. Frank Lloyd Wright was fully influenced by Japanese arrangements ideas of interior and exterior spaces, the opening walls of Japan are made up from sliding doors. In the twentieth century the domestic and religious architecture was in Japenese style. The beauty of modern cities sky scrapers was crowded by Tokyos skyline and the total process reflects the western modern forms. After the world war two the urban planning and reconstruction has produced the major architects such as like Maekawa Kunio and Tange Kenzo. Maekawa, the first person who supported Maekawa concept was Charles LeCorbusier , who has full command on modern works.Tange also supported Maekawa and inspire them on Japanese aesthetic ideas into contemporary buildings and the concept of tatamai flooring (sleeping mats) and the textures they were using was brightening the existing ferroconcrete , steel , gardens , sculptures into designs. In a pillar and beam system Tanga has used the cantilever principle for awakening the ancient palaces, the pillar -a hallmark Was a foundation of Japanese historical tradition which is built on timber construction. New city planning was thought by Maki Fumihiko who gave suggestions on the principles of cocooning around an inner space(oku) ,the needs were adopted from urban side. He backed the ideas of Buddhist which is based on the Japanese aesthetic principle and also favored to use the empty spaces (ma). Japanese aesthetic principle was supposed to be based on the Maki designs, which puts attention towards the view of garden and on the sky lines. The architectural concept was changed in 1970 on the metabolism of exchange , they understand the functions of parts of buildings which strongly influenced them. In 1970s and 1980s, the architect Isozaki Arata was a student of Tanga but his theory was focused on LeCorbusier traditions , turned his attention towards the geometric shapes and cubic silhouettes. He formed western technology building to modernize Japan with new styles. In 1980s again a change came to influence their designs and extend it. In the end of 1970s and 1980s they introduced the metaphycisal concepts to reexamine the geometrical shapes to produce fancy architectural designs. They made experiments on Ando Tada style of structure and balanced to modern formula. The building provides a variety of things ehich includes light soruces , glass bricks and opening up of spaces to the outside air. The inner courtyards was adopted by traditional Osaka houses, the urban architecture uses open staircases,and bridges for good atmostphere and standard living. In 1980s his ideas were existing, the buildings were built on open courtyards with terrace spaces, pedestrian walking and built bridges to connect buildings. The third Architecture was awarded, Frances Prix de lAcadà ©mie dArchitecture in 1989 . Japanese architecture was liked by all over the world , because of its modern techniques and styles . Japanese architecture also introduced industrial materials, and a developed awareness of ecological and topographical problems. Tatamai Mats paper doors REFERENCE LIST: http://gojapan.about.com U.S. Library of Congress http://countrystudies.us/japan/82.htm HORIZONTAL AXIS: The large roofs of Japanese architecture is built on horizontal axis and its low profile of shows its presence. It is an achievement of japan that these types of roofs are also present in Asia. In Japan this trend is not because of its climate but ,because of its building structure. In the nineteenith century Japanese were living in single -storey , but when they saw that western are living in two -storey houses .They also started to live in two -storey houses and taller houses. The architects also turned towards facades. In the early twentieth century it was a wake up call for European countries to turned towards Japanese architecture which is based on horizontal axis . The tradition of European architecture was based on vertical axix through facades , but to modernize themselves they started to develop both vertical and horizontal axis. In twentieth century the most prominent architect Kenzo Tange (1913-2005), merged Japanese architecture and mordernism ,which was acceptable by all over the world . It was traditionally composed on the columns and beams for making paintings. Fumihiko Maki, Arata Isozaki, Kisho Kurokawa and Yoshio Taniguchi were the successor of building new designs on horizontal and vertical axis with modern Japanese architecture. At present time Toyo Ito and Tadao continues to take Japanese architecture in new directions. REFERENCE LIST: http://www.uk.emb-japan.go.jp/ GARDENS: HISTORY: The definition of garden is where flowers , fruits and vegetables are cultivated but Japan is more forwarded. In 592 A.D during the reign of Empress Suiko, it is evident that the early gardens were very well developed comprises of artificial hills, ornamental pools and many more . In the Nara period (646-794 AD), the major development occured when japan started trading with China. Chinese changed the culture of Japan and execute the gardens in the elite class of Castles. The nobleman arrange their parties in these gardens where animals, birds and fishes provide movement. In the Heian period (794-1185 AD), the people who can afford gardens they built gardens with Japanese tradition, styles and customs. The Shinden garden is the mixture of Chinese and Japanese style, in ancient Chinese lore, the East was the source of purity and the West was the outlet of impurities. There was no change in kamkura period in Shinden garden, Buddhist priests Zen has created garden for meditation not for entertainment. The decoration of garden was fully favor the meditative qualities which includes: stones, water and evergreens, remaining constant throughout the year. There are few types of gardens which are given below: Flat gardens Tea gardens Hill gardens FLAT GARDENS: Flat gardens are built without hills and water and flat garden is also known as Hira-niwa, the garden is filled with pebbles, raked in circles , they also contains stones , trees , lanterns and many more. stones are symbols of islands. During the Edo period flat gardens are popular for their height. These types of gardens are also found in Buddhist temples. Modern flat gardens are having wells and lanternsfor the purification of gardens. These gardens are built on wood and have a system for passing water . Stones lanterns are working at night but they are not ornamental. The Western Japanese garden Daichi shown as a flat garden. 2. HILL GARDEN: Hill garden is also known as Tsukiyama-sansui which means water and hill .this garden is constructed on three dimensional shapes. These gardens are constructed on traditional and modern designs. Water is essential for hill gardens, they are made on two large stones for the appearance of distance. They are colourful because of its bushes and trees.Japanese hill gardens are the symbol of islands. These islands are built on stones and rocks and plants grow at its top. The designer has built a bridge on the island so they can worship on these objects. According to the philosophical point of view this garden have the essence of nature. The Katsura garden exhibits some characteristics of a hill garden. 3. TEA GARDEN: Tea garden plays an important role in performing tea ceremony, this ceremony is continuing for many years. Tea garden has two parts : the soto-roji (outer garden) and the uchi-roji, (inner garden). The outer garden consists of waiting area where guests waits, and the inner garden where tea is served to guest. Tea garden is built same as hill garden. The tea garden contains wash basin , resting place for the guests who attends the tea ceremony. The outer portion of garden is decorated with trees and plants which shows the symbol of peace. At present time tea garden contains flowers stones and elegant designs which attracts towards the people. The Japanese tea garden is famous all over the world . The tea house of Shugakuin is the heart of the gardens design.

Comparing the College Cafeteria to Dinning below the Poverty Line :: Compare Contrast Comparison

Comparing the College Cafeteria to Dinning below the Poverty Line At the beginning of every school year I have to decide whether to get the $6000 carte blanche meal plan or the next smallest $5900 meal plan because I am required to have one of these two options as an on campus student. It's not a tough decision to go with the carte blanche because it is only $100 more for many more meals. The worst part is writing the check and imaging the money being moved from my account. But for the people of Jubilee Partners, a Christian intentional community in rural Georgia, meals have a much different focus. The people of Jubilee Partners intentionally live below the poverty line so that they will not have to pay federal taxes, a portion of which goes into the defense fund. This is just one of the many ways that they choose to live differently from the rest of the world. The thirty residents take turns to make the food that is eaten at their communal meals. During my stay I helped three Central American girls prepare an evening meal. As it was an evening meal, we were allowed to make something new rather than just use leftovers. Lunch always consisted of the preceding nights leftovers, fresh salad from the garden, bread, cheese, and peanut butter. If there were no leftovers, as there often were not, we only ate salad, bread, cheese, and peanut butter. As I looked around the small, simple kitchen, I wondered where were the large stainless steal pots and shiny stove that I was familiar with. The girls instructed me in broken English that I should make bread. With flour-covered arms I mixed and kneaded the dough in an old plastic bowl and smiled as I listened to the excited laughter and rapid Spanish that I could not understand. As Gabby showed me how to roll and form the loaves, I watched as the others make lasagna with synthetic meat from a government surplus. Meat was rare at Jubilee as it was expensive and much of the food they ate came from a food bank. Meat night, which was held once a week, was a special occasion anticipated by many. Standing in line in the Goshen College cafeteria, I examine the array of food spread before me trying to decide what I want. I had glanced at the menu board as my id was scanned but still am not sure what I am hungry for.

Rhetorical Analysis the Gigantic Society Mirror : Media.

ENL 101 Essay # 2 Assignment Prof. M. Ryckebusch. Final Draft 03/26/12 Luis Serrano Word Count : 820 The Gigantic Society Mirror : Media. Living in a society with a fierce hunger for capitalism generates an active promotion of companies' services and products which incites people to spend money on them. Advertisements and publicity have a strong influence on the companies’ marketing process, where creativity and innovation are the keys of attracting new customers, but the intrigue preserves on where should the limits for this advertisements be bounded in order for society not be exposed to things like violence through the media .In her essay, â€Å" Two Ways A Women Can Get Hurt†, Jean Kilbourne – an award-winning author and educator who is best known for her works about media images effects on young people- emphasizes how violence ( specifically sexualized violence ) in our culture is present through the media, which she recognizes as a powerful mirror in which society is somehow shaped by. Kilbourne’s analysis suggests that erotism in advertising promotes pornography, which main goal , according to her, is to embraces the idea on people minds that women are objects used to fulfill men’s sexual desire ( Kilbourne 459).The use of the images in the essay serves as evidence to support the author’s message, where she invites the audience to interpret her arguments by applying appeals to reason while they visualize how inhuman and violent some advertisements are. In addition to her thesis, the author emphasizes that some advertisements foster the belief that women reward men with sex when they wear or buy their products ( Kilbourne 459 ). An equally significant aspect mentioned is that these advertisements produce a collateral damage that aims both genders, where individual ideas/actions coming from the images mentioned can be self-harming (Kilborne 467).As mentioned before, Kilbourne explains in one of her paragraphs that certain advertisements are not only harmful to women, but also to men. She adds that our economy system has developed new markets that had targeted men as sex objects in advertisements. Evidence for in support of this position, can be found in the image of an almost naked man making a advertisements of Calvin Klein Jeans, which is shown to sustain her idea of how pornography is invading the media and the negative effects it has on humans by promoting violent aspects (Kilborne 467).Even though she mentions that men don’t feel targeted the same way women do, nor they feel threaten by this advertisements, the objectification of any human being is a dangerous thing and its never good. Furthermore, it can be seen from the above analysis, that if a man grows up seeing advertisements that encourage them to mistreat women, there will be a high possibility that he will perform such acts of sexism and violence. The images that bombard us daily influence us to think and behave in certai n ways, profoundly affecting the way we see ourselves and others.In this manner, men are also victims of the publicity in the media because they might find themselves in legal accusations and problems because of their lack of understanding how a women should be treated. The author earn’s the attention from a different audience, appealing to pathos, since she mentions how men are also targeted from the media. In order to support her claim and bridge the controversy the author involves some images, through the essay, in order to bring logos to her thesis. However, there is no shortage of disagreement with the judgements of some images as the main encouragers for a man to mistreat a woman.In the pictures provided – corresponding to men’s cologne advertisements- the author induce that the admonition behind the publicity infers that ignoring and mistreating a women is a way a men can get her attraction. It is quite obvious that these advertisements she shows are targ eted for men customers and the main goal of these advertisements sponsoring products like colognes, is basically to show how effective they are among women. Moreover , it is important to mention that we live in a materialistic society where what what we wear or use is a form of expression that is intended to attract our peers, and in this case the opposite sex.So when men are wearing a fragrance , they expect women would like the smell of it, since the main purpose of it’s use is attracting women . So on most pictures of cologne , you will always expect a man surrounded by women, indicating the effectiveness of the fragrance instead of men’s supremacy over women. In such declarations, the author show weakness on her credibility by applying excess of emotions when she describes this images, it is apparently clear that the authors feelings lead her to a misconception of some pictures which discredits her ethos.In writing this essay, Kilbourne faced a challenging task: to write an impressive and brief essay about two of the most broad topics in our society which are media and gender stratification. The problem of people being indifferent toward advertisements is a matter of fact that only few have been aware of. Even if the main purpose of Kilbourne was to target (by different emotional appeals and some biased feminist thoughts) women as her main audience, this essay embraces the idea of how dangerous the media can be in our society and how offensive it can be . not only women, but buy any human being.

Luxury Sectoral Analysis

Luxury Sectoral Analysis Introduction This paper will present a detailed sectoral analysis, which focuses on the luxury wine industry in the US. Russian River Ranches Chardonnay is the luxury wine brand that will be analyzed. The brand is manufactured and distributed by Sonoma-Cutrer in the US.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Luxury Sectoral Analysis specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Russian River Ranches is a luxury brand because it is made of high quality grapes and advanced brewing technologies (Sonoma-Cutrer 2014). As a premium product, Russian River Ranches is sold in luxury restaurants and hotels in the US. In addition, it was the second most expensive among the top 20 luxury wine brands in the US in 2013 (Sonoma-Cutrer 2014). Porter’s five forces model will be used to analyze the competitiveness of Russian River Ranches in its industry. Other elements of the brand that will be analyzed include price aesthetics, product, communi cations, and branding. Porter’s Five Forces Analysis Suppliers’ Bargaining Power The luxury wine industry has several suppliers, which include manufacturers of packaging materials, producers of labeling materials, producers of grapes, and shipping companies. The suppliers have a high bargaining power due to the following reasons. First, there are more wine producers than suppliers of key inputs such packaging materials. In the last five years, vineyard acreage reduced significantly as famers used their land to produce more profitable crops such as almonds. This problem is exacerbated by the fact that there are no substitutes for grapes in luxury wine production (Demeter Group 2013).Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The demand for grapes has significantly increased as producers of high-end wine increase their production capacities. The resulting shorta ge of grapes has significantly increased farmers’ bargaining power. Second, differentiation of inputs is a key determinant of the quality of luxury wine. Producers of high-end wine must consistently use the best grapes and packaging materials to attract customers (Sonoma-Cutrer 2014). Third, most suppliers in the industry have low switching costs since there are many buyers for their products. For example, suppliers of packaging materials also sell to manufacturers in the soft drinks industry. Thus, they give priority to buyers who are able to offer high prices and to make bulk purchases. The high bargaining power of the suppliers means that they can easily increase their prices, thereby reducing the competitiveness of Russian River Ranches and other brands. Buyers’ Bargaining Power The buyers (consumers of wine) have a high bargaining power due to the following reasons. First, brand loyalty is very low since customers are interested in trying new products (Brun Caste lli 2013, pp. 823-847). This limits the ability of producers of luxury wine to retain their customers. Second, nearly all manufacturers of wine are focusing on product differentiation. This increases the number of products that are available in the market, thereby increasing buyers’ bargaining power. Third, buyers of luxury wine have low switching costs. Thus, they can easily change brands in order to satisfy their needs. The high power of consumers of luxury wine means that producers have to focus on product differentiation and aggressive marketing to retain their customers.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Luxury Sectoral Analysis specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The producers of luxury wine have a moderate bargaining power. One of the factors that improve their bargaining power is ability to make bulk purchases. This enables producers to negotiate for favorable prices for their supplies. The threat of back ward integration is also high since companies such as Sonoma-Cutrer produce grapes on their own (Sonoma-Cutrer 2014). The main factor that reduces the bargaining power of wine producers is the mismatch between the demand and supply of their inputs (Demeter Group 2013). Specifically, undersupply limits manufacturers’ ability to bargain since the available inputs have to be rationed through high prices. Threat of Substitutes The main substitutes of luxury wine include soft drinks, beer, and spirits. Luxury wine also competes with the regular wine brands. The threat of substitutes is low due to the following reasons. To begin with, luxury wine performs better than other alcoholic drinks in terms of quality. Specifically, the people who drink alcohol prefer wine because of its superior taste. Consumption of luxury wine is also associated with high social status in the society (Brun Castelli 2013, pp. 823-847). Apart from taste, wine has several health benefits that cannot be enj oyed through consumption of other alcoholic beverages. Specifically, moderate consumption of wine helps in prevention of heart diseases, stroke, anxiety, and lose of memory in old age (Brun Castelli 2013, pp. 823-847). These benefits make wine the best option among consumers of alcohol.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More However, excessive consumption of wine can have negative health effects. Moreover, some religions prohibit consumption of alcohol. These factors reduce the competitiveness of luxury wine as customers opt for soft drinks. Generally, luxury wine is more expensive than other alcoholic beverages and soft drinks (Brun Castelli 2013, pp. 823-847). However, the high price does not have negative effects on the demand for luxury wine, especially, in the affluent market segment where customers are not price sensitive. Since Russian River Ranches has a superior quality, it is likely to overcome the low threat of substitutes in the market. Threat of New Entrants The threat of new entrants is low because of the following factors. First, the cost of entering the luxury wine industry is prohibitive. New companies that intend to establish production plants require significantly high financial capital, which is not easily available. Second, the incumbents have high economies of scale (Demeter Group 2013). In the last decade, major producers of luxury wine focused on consolidation through mergers and acquisitions. This has enabled them to achieve â€Å"economies of scale in production and distribution† (Chevalier Mazzalovo 2012, p. 56). As a result, they have high production capacities and cost advantages that make them more competitive than new entrants. Third, the incumbents have control over the distribution channels. In the last five years, distributors of luxury wine such as wholesalers, specialty restaurants, and retailers embarked on consolidation to strengthen their market power (Demeter Group 2013). The incumbents in the wine industry have long-term distribution contracts with the available distributors. This means that new entrants will have to incur high costs to access the distribution system. Finally, access to inputs such grapes is difficult, since the incumbents have long-term supply contracts with famers. The low threat of new entrants is a growth oppor tunity to Russian River Ranches as demand continues to rise. Threat of Competitive Rivalry High competition in the US luxury wine market is explained by the following factors. First, the industry is highly concentrated. In 2013, the top 4 largest producers of luxury win accounted for 70% of the market share (Demeter Group 2013). This means that only 30% of the market is left for the remaining producers. Second, the industry is characterized by high fixed costs. Specifically, the cost of labor and warehousing is on the rise, thereby reducing the profits of producers of luxury wine. Third, there is overcapacity in the industry. This is explained by the fact that liberalization of the US wine industry has resulted into an increase in importation of luxury wine from countries such as China, Italy, and France (Demeter Group 2013). Wine products from countries such as China are sold at low prices since their producers have production cost advantages. Although the industry is characterized by high competition, it is still experiencing strong growth. In the last three years, the market for luxury wine in the US grew at an average annual rate of 12% (Demeter Group 2013). This strong growth is expected to continue in the next four years as economic growth improves. The implication of the high competitive rivalry is that Russian River Ranches must be able to satisfy customers’ needs in order to maintain its competitiveness. Specifically, the marketing mix strategy that is used to market it must be aligned to customers’ needs. Success of Russian River Ranches The factors that account for the success of Russian River Ranches in the luxury wine market include the following. First, the brand is successful because of its unrivaled quality. Since its inception, Sonoma-Cutrer acknowledged the fact that high quality is one of the major factors that determine the success of luxury wine brands. Consequently, the company strategically chose to produce its own grapes. This enables it to improve the quality of Russian River Ranches by selecting the best grapes to manufacture it (Sonoma-Cutrer 2014). Moreover, the company focuses on incremental product innovation to improve the quality of its wine. As a result, it has been able to produce several flavors that meet the expectations of its customers. As a premium brand that is known for high quality, Russian River Ranches is able to achieve high sales despite being one of the most expensive brands in the market (Sonoma-Cutrer 2014). Second, Russian River Ranches is successful because of its strong brand image. It has been rated as the most popular luxury wine brand in the US for over ten consecutive years (Sonoma-Cutrer 2014). The brand personality of Russian River Ranches reflects the attributes that customers in the luxury wine market look for. These include authenticity, premium quality, good reputation, and excusive brand history (Brun, Castelli 2013, pp. 823-847). These attributes have enabled R ussian River Ranches to command a high brand loyalty in a market where customers are constantly shifting to new products. High brand loyalty enables the brand to overcome competition from other luxury brands and substitute products. Third, Russian River Ranches owes its success to the multi-level distribution channel that is being used to distribute it in the US. As the most popular luxury brand, all high-end restaurants and hotels strive to serve Russian River Ranches to maintain their competitiveness (Sonoma-Cutrer 2014). The wholesalers also have the incentive to distribute the brand because its premium price enables them to earn a decent profit margin. This enables Russian River Ranches to overcome competition by denying its competitors access to third-party distribution channels. In addition, Sonoma-Cutrer has its own retail and online stores that it uses to distribute the brand. This enables its sales team to offer excellent customer service, which in turn improves brand loyal ty and sales. Finally, Russian River Ranches is successful in the luxury market because of the marketing strategies that have been adopted by its producer. The brand’s premium positioning strategy has been reinforced through innovative marketing communications initiatives. The brand is marketed through digital platforms such as the social media, the internet, and smartphones that allow its marketers to convey personalized messages to a niche market segment rather than the mass market (Sonoma-Cutrer 2014). This enables customers to identify with the brand and to recommend it to their colleagues, thereby increasing its sales and brand credibility (Reyneke, Pitt Berthon 2011, pp. 21-35). In addition, Russian River Ranches is marketed based on value rather than price. Although most companies are trying to gain market share by reducing the prices of their wine, Sonoma-Cutrer has focused on marketing the benefits that are provided by its brand. As a result, Russian River Ranches h as been able to overcome brand dilution in the market. Key Elements of a Luxury Brand Price Pricing has a significant influence on the way customers perceive luxury brands. Consciously or sub-consciously, customers often develop a psychological luxury image based on the price range that is used to market a brand (Chevalier Mazzalovo 2012, p. 78). Most consumers of luxury brands believe that price has a positive correlation with value. This explains the high price of Russian River Ranches in the luxury wine industry. Specifically, the high price is meant to protect its brand image from being compromised. Undoubtedly, consumers of luxury brands are interested in obtaining high value for their money (Brun Castelli 2013, pp. 823-847). They will not pay more for a product that has no superior functionality. As a result, the high price of Russian River Ranches is justified by its premium quality and good reputation. Apart from compensating producers for the high product quality, pricing in the luxury wine industry is used to ensure exclusivity. This perspective is based on the fact that consumers of luxury products focus on maintaining their self-esteem by purchasing products that others cannot afford. Since Russian River Ranches targets affluent customers, its high price serves as a mechanism for excluding the mass market from consuming it. Product A luxury brand must have a high quality (Brun Castelli 2013, pp. 823-847). This requirement is justified by the fact that a luxury brand must achieve superior performance at the product level and experiential level. This explains Sonoma-Cutrer’s focus on product innovation to maintain the high quality of Russian River Ranches. At the product level, the brand satisfies functional and utilitarian attributes of wine in terms of taste, packaging, alcohol content, and acidity. As a luxury brand, Russian River Ranches also performs at the experiential level by creating an emotional appeal to customers. The emotional appeal distinguishes the brand from the regular brands of wine. The high quality of Russian River Ranches has to be maintained because its consumption signifies high status. The affluent customers consume the brand partly to express their status in the society (Brun Castelli 2013, pp. 823-847). For instance, the brand is often bought as a special gift for loved ones or during special occasions such as weddings as a way of expressing appreciation. Communications Luxury brand communications must be dynamic and versatile in order to attract the attention of the market without hurting brand image (Reyneke, Pitt Berthon 2011, pp. 21-35). Adopting a dynamic marketing communications strategy is justified by the fact that a luxury brand must retain its pedigree status while keeping up with contemporary trends and newness. In a nutshell, the brand must adjust to emerging tastes and preferences without compromising its original attributes that make it unique. This enables the luxury brand t o remain desirable and inspirational. Russian River Ranches has been able to maintain its brand relevance because its adverts focus on conveying emotional and sensual messages. This creates a distinction between the brand and its competitors that target the mass market. In addition, the adverts focus on creating an aura that is genuinely exceptional to the brand image. In the digital marketing platform, Russian River Ranches is advertised using long-form commercials to attract customers’ attention. The main strength of this strategy is that it improves brand awareness and motivates customers to take action by purchasing the wine. Branding In the luxury market, brand presence focuses on creating memorable shopping experiences. A luxury brand has to be retailed in a high-end store that reflects its superior attributes. Every customer touch-point has to enhance the brand experience to strengthen the aura of luxury (Chevalier Mazzalovo 2012, p. 98). In this regard, the marketers of Russian River Ranches utilize great aesthetics and craftsmanship to improve the ambiance of the stores where the wine is sold. Public relations also â€Å"plays an important role in branding luxury brands† (Chevalier Mazzalovo 2012, p. 102). The use of public relations is justified by the fact that it enables marketers to influence public opinion favorably in order to strengthen brand image. In addition, it helps in enhancing the credibility of luxury brands, especially, if the brands are reviewed by renowned public figures. As a result, the marketers of Russian River Ranches use celebrity endorsements to influence public opinion about the brand. Specifically, the public associates the brand with the superior qualities of the celebrities that endorse it. This strategy has significantly improved customers’ confidence in Russian River Ranches, thereby making it the luxury brand of choice in the US. Conclusion The main threats to the competitiveness of Russian River Ranches are the high bargaining power of suppliers, high bargaining power of consumers of wine, and high competition in the luxury wine industry. The suppliers have a high bargaining power because of the shortage of key inputs such as grapes and the large number of producers of wine. The consumers of wine have a high bargaining power because of their low switching costs and access to a variety of brands. Competition is high in the market because of the high concentration of the industry and increased importation of luxury wine. The opportunities that are available to Russian River Ranches include the strong growth of the luxury wine market, as well as, the low threat of substitutes and new entrants. The factors that account for Russian River Ranches’ success include its high quality, strong brand image, and access to established distribution networks. In order to overcome competition in future, the quality of the brand should be improved consistently through product innovatio n. References Brun, A Castelli, C 2013, ‘The nature of luxury: a consumer perspective’, International Journal of Retail and Distribution Management, vol. 41. no. 11, pp. 823-847. Chevalier, M Mazzalovo, G 2012, Luxury brand management, McGraw-Hill, New York. Demeter Group 2013, State of the wine industry. Web. Reyneke, M, Pitt, L Berthon, P 2011, ‘Luxury wine brand visibility in social media: an exploratory study’, International Journal of Wine Business Research, vol. 23. no. 1, pp. 21-35. Sonoma-Cutrer 2014, Our craft. Web.