Free Essays on Cloudstreet

In the novel ‘Cloudstreet’, Tim Winton gives an insight into the truths about life. Through the construction of diverse and deep characters, the readers can explore the magic and mystery of life, love and death. The characters play an important role in conveying the idea that we all need to find some meaning in life whether it be through spirituality, religion or family. Quick Lamb is an intricate character who is important in bringing greater depth to the themes and issues presented in the novel. As a child Quick Lamb was a quiet child, and ironically named after his slow personality. As a result of an accident, where Quick’s younger bother fish near drowned and became mentally disabled, Quick spent the rest of his life and childhood burdened by guilt. Quick blamed himself for his brothers’ fate as he was standing on the net which drowned fish. Quick was developed as a depressed character unable to escape his inner demons. Quick develops a manifestation with misery believing he needs to make himself unhappy as a â€Å"punishment† for his brothers’ state. Quick dwells on the misery of others, by surrounding himself with pictures of, the prisoners of war, refugees, and other victims of evil and violence. Quick adopts a ‘sadness radar’ which is an aspect of his trapped personality. To over come his fight with evil quick escapes to the bush on a journey of self discovery and a place of belonging. During his absence his nightmares that haunt his sleep, are a reflection of the guilt he feels from the accident with fish. Quick returns from the bush ‘glowing like an Osram lamp’ he is able to accept Fish for whom he is. Winton constructs Quick as experiencing a rite of passage. Throughout the novel quick develops from a timid guilt obsessed boy to a strong and happy man. Quick is able to realize his need for family and able to find love with Rose and establish his own family. He was able come to the realization that ther... Free Essays on Cloudstreet Free Essays on Cloudstreet In the novel ‘Cloudstreet’, Tim Winton gives an insight into the truths about life. Through the construction of diverse and deep characters, the readers can explore the magic and mystery of life, love and death. The characters play an important role in conveying the idea that we all need to find some meaning in life whether it be through spirituality, religion or family. Quick Lamb is an intricate character who is important in bringing greater depth to the themes and issues presented in the novel. As a child Quick Lamb was a quiet child, and ironically named after his slow personality. As a result of an accident, where Quick’s younger bother fish near drowned and became mentally disabled, Quick spent the rest of his life and childhood burdened by guilt. Quick blamed himself for his brothers’ fate as he was standing on the net which drowned fish. Quick was developed as a depressed character unable to escape his inner demons. Quick develops a manifestation with misery believing he needs to make himself unhappy as a â€Å"punishment† for his brothers’ state. Quick dwells on the misery of others, by surrounding himself with pictures of, the prisoners of war, refugees, and other victims of evil and violence. Quick adopts a ‘sadness radar’ which is an aspect of his trapped personality. To over come his fight with evil quick escapes to the bush on a journey of self discovery and a place of belonging. During his absence his nightmares that haunt his sleep, are a reflection of the guilt he feels from the accident with fish. Quick returns from the bush ‘glowing like an Osram lamp’ he is able to accept Fish for whom he is. Winton constructs Quick as experiencing a rite of passage. Throughout the novel quick develops from a timid guilt obsessed boy to a strong and happy man. Quick is able to realize his need for family and able to find love with Rose and establish his own family. He was able come to the realization that ther...

How to Make Non-Toxic, Realistic Fake Snow in Minutes

How to Make Non-Toxic, Realistic Fake Snow in Minutes You can make fake snow using a common polymer. The fake snow is non-toxic, feels cool to the touch, lasts for days, and looks similar to the real thing. Key Takeaways: Make Fake Snow One of the easiest ways to make realistic fake snow is to mix sodium polyacrylate and water.The resulting snow is white, wet, fluffy, and cool to the touch. It is also non-toxic and reuseable.Sodium polyacrylate is a polymer used in disposable diapers, growing toys, sanitary napkins, and gel water sources. Fake Snow Materials You only need two simple materials for this project: Sodium polyacrylateWater What You Do There are a couple of ways to get the ingredient necessary to make fake polymer snow. You can purchase the fake snow or you can harvest sodium polyacrylate from common household sources. You can find sodium polyacrylate inside disposable diapers or as crystals in a garden center, used to help keep soil moist.All you need to do to make this type of fake snow is add water to the sodium polyacrylate. Add some water, mix the gel. Add more water until you have the desired amount of wetness. The gel will not dissolve. Its just a matter of how slushy you want your snow.Sodium polyacrylate snow feels cool to the touch because it is mainly water. If you want to add more realism to the fake snow, you can refrigerate or freeze it. The gel will not melt. If it dries out, you can rehydrate it by adding water. Helpful Tips Fake snow is non-toxic, as you would expect from a material used in disposable diapers. However, dont purposely eat it. Remember, non-toxic is not the same as edible.When you are done playing with fake snow, its safe to throw it away. Alternatively, you can dry it out to save and re-use.If you want yellow snow (or some other color), you can mix food coloring into the fake snow.If you want drier snow, you can reduce the amount of water the polymer can absorb by adding a small amount of salt.Skin contact with the artificial snow could potentially cause a irritation or a rash. This is because leftover acrylic acid could remain as a by-product of sodium polyacrylate production. The level of acrylic acid is regulated for disposable diapers to be less than 300 PPM. If you choose another source for the chemical that isnt intended for human skin contact, the resulting snow could be itchy. About Sodium Polyacrylate Sodium polyacrylate is also known by the common name waterlock. The polymer is a sodium salt of acrylic acid with the chemical formula [−CH2−CH(CO2Na)−]n. The material is superabsorbent, with the capacity to absorb 100 to 1000 times its weight in water. While the sodium form of the polymer is most common, similar materials exist substituting potassium, lithium, or ammonium for sodium. While sodium-neutralized polymers are most common in diapers and feminine napkins, the potassium-neutralized polymer is more common in soil amendment products. The U.S. Department of Agriculture developed the material in the early 1960s. Researchers sought a material to improve water retention in soils. Originally, the scientists developed a hydrolyzed product made from a starch-acrylonitrile co-polymer. This polymer, known as Super Slurper, absorbed over 400 times its weight in water, but did not release the water back again. Many chemical companies worldwide joined the race to develop a super absorbent polymer. These included Dow Chemical, General Mills, Sanyo Chemical, Kao, Nihon Sarch, Dupont, and Sumitomo Chemical. The first commercial products resulting from the research were released in the early 1970s. However, the first applications were for adult incontinence products and feminine sanitary napkins, not soil amendments. The first use of a super absorbent polymer in a baby diaper was in 1982. Sources of Sodium Polyacrylate for Fake Snow Disposable diapers and garden crystals arent the only sources of sodium polyacrylate for fake snow. You can harvest it from the following products. If the particle size is too big for snowflakes, pulse the wet gel in a blender to reach the desired consistency. Pet padDrown-free insect and bird feedersSanitary napkinAnti-flood bagGel hot or cold packGrowing toysInside waterbedsWater blocker for wire and cables

Argumentative Research Paper Women in Combat Essay

Argumentative Research Paper Women in Combat - Essay Example For instance, as this essay will demonstrate in the following sections, women suffer more physical injuries than men, they often suffer more serious psychological ailments, they resort to substance abuse as a means for coping with the physical and psychological strains, and their presence contributes to a number of novel problems in the military. The point is not that women are incapable of serving in the military. The point most certainly is not that women cannot be good leaders and good soldiers. The thesis of this essay is that women should not be placed in direct combat roles because (1) their presence may very well result in more serious physical and psychological costs than those experienced by male soldiers, and (2) that their presence causes the military to become preoccupied with peripheral issues such as sexual harassment, dating, and disharmony to the exclusion of military readiness and missions. As the data will demonstrate, this ought to be viewed and treated as much more than a political or a social issue. The military occupies a special place within the larger political and social framework, its combat functions result in serious injuries and mental strains, and women ought to consider the medical findings and the military realities before demanding increased combat roles. This research paper will define what is meant by combat and, as illustrated in Iraq with messy urban warfare, how traditional notions of combat versus non-combat personnel have become increasingly difficult to define. This blurring of the traditional distinction is of particular relevance in this case because women serving in traditionally non-combat roles have, in fact, been directly exposed to combat nonetheless. After examining the meaning of combat, this essay will analyze a number of recent studies which demonstrate that women suffer greater burdens than their male counterparts. Some of these burd ens are biologically-rooted and cannot be remedied by simple shifts in policy.In the final analysis, there is no good scientific or military argument for including women in combat roles. The humane result would be a wholesale exclusion of women from combat. Only a sadist would use women as martyrs to make a point of gender equality, which has been and can continue to be made in less damaging situations and contexts. Combat Versus Non-Combat Combat was traditionally defined as taking place in a specific place with specific people (Skaine, 26); however, Skaine also goes on to note that combat today is more spread out, warring parties often hide and fight among civilians, and that defining a woman as serving in a combat or non-combat role is somewhat disingenuous. This is because, even though most women are theoretically shielded from combat by legislation and by non-combat designations and deployments, the combat reaches and affects women. Indeed, it is an open secret that women operate in combat roles even though they are technically barred or prohibited. Recent events in Iraq illustrate this blurring of the role between combatants and non-combatants all too starkly; as reported by CNN, "The Pentagon's policy banning women in combat is being tested in Iraq, where the lack of a defined front line and insurgents' guerrilla

Marijuana Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Marijuana - Essay Example This paper discusses legalization of marijuana, as a contemporary issue, with an opinion that the drug should be legalized for its potential benefits to the society and the nation. The paper reviews existing opinions on whether the drug should be legalized or not. One of the major concerns that have led to calls for legalization of marijuana is its diverse potential benefits to the society. Most significant benefit of the drug is its application as medicine following identified adverse effects of chemical based medicines. With increasing rate of depression and diseases such as cancer, and with emergent of adverse effects of the applied drugs for their prevention and treatment, scientists and doctors have appreciated the need for treatment approaches to which patients’ bodies do not adversely react. Natural medicines have as a result become a focus, owing to their less significant side effects as compared to industrial medicines. Chemotherapy and anti-depression pills, as contr ol and treatment methods, have for example exhibited extreme side effects that could even cause people to resort to suicide as a means of getting away from pain and suffering that they live in. However, with better research and newly developed technology, scientists have found that a majority of natural supplements are healthier for treatment of certain illnesses. Medicinal application marijuana, for instance, has many benefits and is currently prescribed to patients with diseases ranging from Alzheimer to HIV, to help with treatments. The drug is also effective in managing stress and depression and therefore makes life a little simpler. Even though marijuana portrays many medicinal benefits, its advantages should not be used as a way to promoting abuse. This means that its use should be regulated like in cases of alcohol and tobacco, whose consumption effects are in some cases worse than marijuana’s. Debates are currently ongoing, both in Congress and all over the world, on whether to legalize marijuana or not. Even though it is still illegal, marijuana’s consumption is widespread and most Americans have at least tried it, or are using it to help them overcome stress. The drug is also an ‘all-natural’ plant that grows anywhere in the world has high demand and supply. The root cause of its contention, however, is the fact that drug lords and marijuana growers started adding chemicals to the commodity. This causes users to become addicted to the modified product and after a while of use, start consuming stronger drugs. That is why marijuana is called a gateway drug. Should Congress pass the bill to legalize marijuana, Food and Drug Administration agency will supervise the product’s sale and consumption. It will be legally available to the public from pharmacies and sold on prescription. Gangs and drug dealers will not sell it on the streets, due to the vast drop in prices from the legalization, and its consequential easy access to the public. Right now, however, if there were no marijuana in the streets, people would be forced to use worse drugs, like cocaine, or crystal meth; those types of drugs that can affect a person’s health physically, mentally, and are highly addictive. Social responsibility, rather than legal restrictions, can better resolve the opposing opinions over legalization of marijuana. In Saudi Arabia for instance, people do not accept drugs socially or

High School Life Essay Example for Free

High School Life Essay It was in the year 2009, I was a graduating elementary student back then, when our adviser talked to me, together with my fellow honor students, regarding our plans after graduation. The conversation included where we wanted to study in high school. Most of us said that a simple school will do, what’s important for us back then was to have a school. That simple. After a few words, our adviser said that there is prestigious school inviting us to study there. Our initial reaction was, of course, we have no money to pay for the tuition fee. But then, she said that we need not worry, because the school offers us 100% scholarship, with a weekly allowance. We were delighted by the news. Imagine being a scholar of Notre Dame of Greater Manila. That is something to be proud of. So we were scheduled for an exam. We were so nervous. After several days of waiting, the results came out. And I was the one chosen to be the scholar! When my mom told me the news, I was really overjoyed. It would be my first time to study in a private school, prestigious one even. I went to the school to arrange my requirements there. That was when I knew that I am a De Mazenod Lingap Talino (DMLT) scholar, who would enjoy 100% scholarship and weekly allowance. What a privilege! I also met there Mr. Diego Reyes, or Sir Jigs, as what the whole institution calls him, and Ma’am Sofie. They were the ones who helped me during my stay there as a scholar. My first year was tough. A lot of adjustments were done. Of course, I’m not used to having classmates who are techy and rich. They talked about this gadget and that gadget, which, in my previous school, is not an issue. I’m not used to seeing signature clothes and bags. So I didn’t know how I would approach them. I’m not rich as them. I am just a simple girl. Another reason why I’m afraid is because I thought I would not be accepted there. I am different, physically. Before the first day of school, I imagined the Damers teasing me and bullying me. And I imagined myself ignoring them, as if they don’t exist, and when I’m alone, I’d cry a lot just to let the feelings out. I thought I would be an outcast, a loner, weirdo in their eyes. But I was completely wrong. I gained a lot of friends, much many than I thought I’d have. My first impression of them was wrong. They are not like what I see in the movies, rich people who are arrogant and rude. They understand my situation. They are open-minded. They are real. They may tease me but that was only natural, I do not get offended. They are real, true friends. Of course, the teachers are a plus. I thought they would not like me, especially the Math teachers, because I’m really weak in that particular subject. I really like Math, but I guess the feeling ain’t mutual. Until now, I still use finger Math. I am extremely slow in solving problems. I thought Math teachers would lose their patience on me, ignore my presence in the cream class because they would think I don’t belong there, because I am a weakling. But then again, I was W-R-O-N-G. Math teachers in Notre are exactly the opposite of what I thought they would be. They are very kind, especially Mrs. Narciso, Ms.Padlan, Mr.R and Mr. Zuniga. They were the ones whom I spend my Math classes with during my entire stay in high school. They were the ones who taught me Math and helped me to improve my skills in that field. They showed me that I am not a weakling, I still have hope. Whoo. But of course, there were my second parents. Mrs. Mercado and Mrs. Asis who served as my mothers, and Mr. Saplagio as my dad. They were the ones whom I turn to and cry on whenever I have problems. And all of the teachers in Notre, who may seem terror and scary inside the classrooms, but outside, they are one of your bestest best friends. Being a scholar isn’t as easy as anyone thinks. It’s really tough maintaining your grades. It is stressing to think about your grades when they are going down. They say grades are just numbers, but I depend on those numbers. My scholarship depends on those numbers. I usually envy those who can just have fun while I am at my room studying even if there’s no exam. And of course, as a scholar, I should be a role model to others. I should take care of my reputation. But of course doing that is a bit hard. As the saying goes, â€Å"Character is what you are; reputation is what people think you are.† What if my character is different from my reputation? Yes, that happens all the time. But I just maintain my character and ignore those who pull me down by saying things about me behind my back. That made me stronger. Notre gave me a lot of experiences that I would not forget. Notre gave me people that I am thankful for. But of course, I would receive none of these if it wasn’t for the DMLT, for giving me this very wonderful opportunity to study in the institution. I am just a simple girl from a family who cannot afford the services of Notre. But because of Notre’s awareness of the students out there who are not financially able, yet deserving to have quality education, and it’s willingness to reach out to them, I was able to experience this once in a lifetime opportunity. Now, I am going to study in my dream school, the University in the Philippines, one of the most prestigious universities in the whole country. With the help of Notre, I was able to get this dream of mine. It equipped me with enough knowledge and skills to face the challenges ahead. My life in Notre had been stressful, yet everything was all worth it. For this, I would like to express my deep gratitude. Thank you, Notre Dame.

The Pritting Press Essay -- essays research papers

In 1440 a man by the man of Johannes Gutenberg invented movable type, or as we know it, a printing press. Prior to 1440 everything read in Europe was copied by hand or copied from wooden blocks carved from hand. This was very expensive and time consuming. The only people who were literate were those of the church and a small percentage of nobility. Since the printing press came out, how would this effect European culture and the way things worked?   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The printing press had many effects on Europe. Very few peasants could read and besides that there wasn’t much to read but scriptures. The things that were being read were hand written and of course this took a long time and so not many people wanted to take the time to do it. Monks spent there days and nights copying and writing scriptures in solitude. At the time Latin was the only language the bible was written in, this was about to change.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The time the printing press was invented was the era of the Renaissance. The Renaissance era is known for inventions and art and new ideas. The printing press was just one of the many inventions that came out of the Renaissance era. I believe this to be one of the biggest inventions to come out around this time because it changed everything and the way we read now. I am sure that someone else later would have thought of this but for the time if brought on new ideas.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Some of the ideas that came about we...

Airport Security: How the Use of Full-Body Scanners and Other Security Measures at Airports Are Problematic

Introduction Security is the freedom from danger and risk, which provides one with complete satisfaction and safety. Full-body scanners have been in use for various health reasons, but have recently started to be utilized at airports for security measures in 2007. Full-body scanners used for safety purposes are a recently invented technology device that claims to ensure entire safety to travelers at airports by generating a computerized stripped image of passengers boarding flights. Additional security procedures along with full-body scanners are also taken place. This assures that no passengers are carrying any harmful material to prevent the act of terrorism. Although full-body scanners allow airport security to avoid physical frisking, which may arise as a problem to many travelers, personally and religiously, there are many disadvantages as well. According to surveys, even though it is for the sake of security, passengers feel uncomfortable about the fact that they are technologically being viewed bare naked. Also, the personal who specifically view your full body scan can amplify security which creates a reasonable issue of racism and prejudice. Additionally, it has been proven that this â€Å"new and improved† full-body scanner and other security measures in action have not been functioning to satisfy complete safety and security to travelers. Private and religious invasion, discrimination, and inefficiency are three major concerns that regard the use of full-body scanners and other security measures, which are becoming increasingly problematic at airports internationally. It is coherent that these apprehensions must be taken into serious consideration regarding the decision whether or not the use of full-body scanners and other security enforcements should be continued. Private and Religious Invasion It is evident, through religious laws and several personal opinions, that the use of full-body scanners may invade an individual’s religious and personal privacy. Generally speaking, one would undoubtedly feel personally invaded if another has the access to observe their uncovered body unwillingly. This is why a certain population feels strongly against the fact that they are forced to be viewed undressed, through the use of a full-body scanner. Rabbi Bulka states that â€Å"†¦a full body check – you have to be able to have access o every single part of the body, including those we would consider off limits† (MacLeod, 2010). This displays that the private body parts of individuals who pass through full-body scanners are being â€Å"viewed by a screener in a separate room, who doesn’t know the identity of the person†(Gulli, 2010). It is apparent that the passenger being observed by the anonymous viewer will undoubt edly feel that their privacy is being strongly invaded through the use of full-body scanners. Among the lines of privacy invasion, there are other methods to attack a passenger’s boundary to make them feel uncomfortable. On that note, the use of full-body scanners has also broken the religious laws of the population amongst certain beliefs. The author mentions that, â€Å"Passengers who do not wish to pass through the metal detector for religious or cultural reasons can request a pat-down as an alternative. Head coverings, whether religious or not, are also permitted, though they may be subject to a pat-down search or removal in a private area† (Higgins, 2010). This demonstrates that full-body scanners may be a threat to an individual’s religious beliefs by forcing them to remove any religious attire such as a hijab for Muslim women or a turban for Sikh men/women. Additionally, this population would be very sensitive to physical pat-downs in private areas as they have already avoided the use of full-body scanners due to religious terms. Not only does this raid religious belief, but may also invade an individual’s personal space as well. With this information, it is prominent that religious and personal privacy may be invaded with the utilization of full-body scanners. Discrimination Along with religious and personal invasion, the utilization of full-body scanners and other security measures have proven to raise problems of discrimination and prejudice. This causes travelers to wonder whether they are being scrutinized at airports for the safety of others, or for the indignity of their identity and background. It is clear that the background and race of an individual largely alters the way airport security personal treat passengers in relation to full-body scanners. The author, Micheline Maynard, expresses that â€Å"Citizens of 14 nations, including Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Nigeria, who are flying to the United States will be subjected indefinitely to intense screening at airports worldwide†¦Ã¢â‚¬ (Lipton, 2010). However, she also states that â€Å"†¦American citizens, and most others who are not flying through those 14 nations on their way to the United States, will no longer automatically face the full-range of intensified security†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (Lipton, 2010). This shows that the targeted countries such as Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Nigeria along with others are clearly being classified under terrorism-related countries. A massive issue is created for the majority of the population from those countries, who are innocent, yet are forced to undergo intense full-body screening for no political reason. Therefore, airport security is proven to produce discrimination in association with full-body scanners against those targeted nations. Furthermore, prejudice along with discrimination is evidently exists in the process of airport security measures other than full-body scanners. As Rafi Sela, the president of AR Challenges, a global transportation security consultancy, speaks about the body and hand-luggage check, he states that â€Å"†¦they’re not looking for liquids, they're not looking at your shoes. They're not looking for everything they look for in North America. They just look at you† (Kelly, 2009). This quotation is an ideal example of prejudice present at airport security. As prejudice refers to an unfavorable opinion, Rafi Sela explains that the traveler at the body and hand-luggage check will be judged based on his/her appearance as opposed to making sure that the passenger is not carrying any harmful substances for the flight. Finally, it is apparent that discrimination and prejudices have been established as a method of the security system at airports, which is wrongful in a countless number of ways. Inefficiency Another problem that arises from the use of full-body scanners is that they do not provide complete efficiency to bring forth entire safety. Also, trained dogs are a more enhanced component of the security system that tends to function superior to full-body scanners. Moreover, full-body scanners may not perform as effectively to deter deadly weapons that a terrorist may have possession of. Cathy Gulli says, â€Å"†¦body scanners probably won’t pick up explosives concealed in body cavities or consumed, which still leaves bombers with the ability to get explosives onto the plane† (Gulli, 2010). This clearly displays that using these full-body scanners can o be claim to be highly effective, are proven wrong. As using these machines is putting a risk and danger to lives of travelers internationally, there is a major flaw in the system and may become very problematic. As Rafi Sela says, â€Å"†¦if you have a gap in security, you have no security† (Gulli, 2010). On the other hand, having a canine is a more effective security method as it provides a supplementary and a serviceable protection to travelers worldwide. â€Å"Cliff Samson, president of the Canadian Police Canine Association, believes dogs are ‘every bit as effective’ as machines at detecting explosives, and they can seek them out in a way that huge, stationary equipment can’t† (Gulli, 2010). This evidence supports the fact that using trained canines for security purposes as opposed to ineffective and risky full-body scanners, there is also a financial advantage as well. Mr. Samson also mentions that â€Å"†¦a dog can cost a police department $12,000†¦Ã¢â‚¬  whereas a security expert states that â€Å"†¦body scanners, each worth $250 000, at Canadian airports†¦ † (Gulli, 2010). Not only does this give airports an opportunity to increase security for a positive cause, but also allows airports to capitalize financially. Conclusively, inadequacy in the functioning of full-body scanners has proved to be problematic security factor without bringing complete security that even dogs can outsmart. Conclusion Various apprehensions that are becoming increasingly problematic as time passes regarding the doubtful airport security systems include invasion of privacy and religious laws, discrimination and prejudices, as well as ineffectiveness of full-body scanners. It is extremely important for the public citizens across the world to act towards bringing a much safer security system that is capable of accommodating the various respected religions internationally without the process of determining whose security should or should not be intensified based on their ethnic background and race. It is also important for everyone to acknowledge that it is just as important to defend ones rights and beliefs as it is to protect an airline flight without physically or religiously violating an individual’s space. This is why it is an excellent idea to create a universal security system that is convenient in use, unbiased and respected of physical and religious liberty. It is the responsibility of every person to contribute towards the creation of a precious and needed system that potentially holds the lives of many as it will largely donate towards the prevention of terrorism. With the rapid developing technology witnessed in the past decade, there is absolutely no excuse to live without a safety scheme most needed around the world. Not only should this worldwide security system be used for the isolated purpose of airport safety, but should also be utilized at public locations such as theme parks, subway and bus terminals and sea ports as well. This way every country, city, and community across the world will be satisfied and secure of any danger and risk. Since our current security structure clearly cannot handle the situations faced today, a more effective method of security will serve its purpose to protect every valuable individual globally. References Gulli, C. (2010). The scary truth about airport security. Maclean’s (2), 18. Retrieved February 02, 2010, from ProQuest database. Higgins, M. (2010). Security ahead? pack patience:[travel desk]. New York Times, p. TR. 3. Retrieved March 14, 2010, from ProQuest database. Kelly, C. 2009, December 30). The ‘Israelification’ of airports: high security, little bother. The Star. Retrieved March 15, 2010, from http://www. thestar. com/ Lipton, E. (2010). Strict airport screening to remain for citizens of 14 nations; [foreign desk]. New York Times, p. A. 3. Retrieved February 16, 2010, from ProQuest database. MacLeod, J. (2010). Full-body scans ok to save lives, rabbis say. Canadian Jewish News, p. 3,15. Retrieved March 14, 2010, from ProQuest database.

Business School Plan

Leslie Marion CEO of JCW Inc. has identified she will need $125,850 to open a Reference School Center in Houston, Texas. The funds will cover the purchase and installation of the equipment and machinery, leasehold improvements, inventory, office equipment, and working capital to start the business. Leslie Marion will contribute $20,000 to the project from personal funds. The remainder of $105,850 is requested to be a SBA loan at 6. 00% interest amortized over 5 years. The loan is to be secured by the equipment, and inventory, as well as the personal guarantee of Leslie Marion. JCW is a company investing in educational field for a learning center that caters to families with children who needs academic support. The Reference School Center at Houston will be a very attractive school for those who need special attention on preschool through high school difficulties. The program is based on the brain research that has accumulated in the last decade. This research suggests that stimulating the mind with mental exercise may cause brain cells, called neurons, to branch widely. This branching causes millions of additional connections between brain cells. Studies demonstrate that our brains develop throughout our lives and that they are constantly being modified and that training and practice can stimulate brain development in targeted areas. This is known as neuroplasticity. JCW company based on neuroplasticity studies created a special program to help the students to learn more from their works and solv their difficulties on memorization and getting knowledgement. We believe in our success and in our investment in the educational area.

Why We Need Paragraphs

Why We Need Paragraphs Why We Need Paragraphs Why We Need Paragraphs By Sharon Reading a blog post or a web article should be easy. Some web pages have large blocks of text with very few breaks between them. When I see those, my brain does the TMI (too much information) dance and my eyes move on until they find something easier to look at. When you try to process an unbroken block of text, its like trying to eat a whole apple pie in one gulp. You may be able to do it, but youll probably get indigestion or choke in the attempt. Thats why paragraphs are important. Getting Attention Web readers have a short attention span. Thats why you need to make it easy. As you write, remember that you are taking your readers on a journey from point A to point B to point C. Paragraphs are just one of the ways that you do this. Web Usability When I worked as an editor, I spent a lot of time making long paragraphs shorter and making sure that each paragraph had a point. This also works for web content writing. All the advice I read on web usability suggests that you make one main point or cover one key idea in each paragraph. Then you expand on it a bit, then move on to the next one. That makes it easy for the eyes and the brain to process – and makes it more likely that people will read your blog posts. Using Subheadings Theres one more way to improve the experience for web content readers. Subheadings serve as navigational markers to tell readers whats coming in each paragraph. They can skip to the part that interests them, or get an idea whether they need to read the article or blog post at all. Use subheadings and small paragraphs and your readers will thank you and come back for more. Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Writing Basics category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:How to Punctuate References to Dates and TimesHow to Punctuate with â€Å"However†45 Idioms About the Number One

Biography of Alvin C. York, Hero of World War I

Biography of Alvin C. York, Hero of World War I Alvin C. York (born Alvin Cullum York; December 13, 1887–September 2, 1964) was one of the U.S. Armys most notable heroes during World War I. York received the Medal of Honor for his actions on October 8, 1918, during the Meuse-Argonne Offensive. In the course of an attack, he led a small group that captured more than 130 prisoners and he single-handedly eliminated multiple German machine guns and their crews. After the war, his life was brought to the big screen by Gary Cooper in the award-winning film Sergeant York. Fast Facts: Alvin C. York Known for: Pacifist hero in World War I, movie about his life in 1940.Birth: December 13, 1887 in Pall Mall, TennesseeParents: William and Mary YorkDeath: September 2, 1964 in Pall Mall, TennesseeSpouse: Gracie WilliamsChildren: 10, eight of whom survived infancy Early Life Alvin Cullum York was born December 13, 1887, to William and Mary York of rural Pall Mall, Tennessee. The third of 11 children, York grew up in a small two-room cabin and received minimal schooling as a child due to a need to aid his father in running the family farm and hunting for food. Though his formal education was lacking, he learned to be a crack shot and an adept woodsman. In the wake of his fathers death in 1911, York, as the eldest still living in the area, was forced to aid his mother in raising his younger siblings. To support the family, he began working in railroad construction and as a logger in Harriman, Tennessee. A hard worker, York showed a devotion to promoting the welfare of his family. Trouble and Spiritual Conversion During this period, York became a heavy drinker and was frequently involved in bar fights. Despite pleas from his mother to improve his behavior, York persisted in drinking. This continued until the winter of 1914, when his friend Everett Delk was beaten to death during a brawl in nearby Static, Kentucky. Shaken by this incident, York attended a revival meeting led by H.H. Russell during which he concluded that he needed to change his ways or risk suffering a fate similar to Delk. Altering his behavior, he became a member of the Church of Christ in Christian Union. A strict fundamentalist sect, the church forbade violence and preached a strict moral code that forbade drinking, dancing, and many forms of popular culture. An active member of the congregation, York met his future wife, Gracie Williams, through the church while also teaching Sunday school and singing in the choir. World War I and Moral Confusion With the United States entry into World War I in April 1917, York became concerned that he would be required to serve. These worries became reality when he received his draft registration notice. Consulting with his pastor, he was advised to seek conscientious objector status. On June 5, York registered for the draft as required by law, but wrote on his draft card, Dont want to fight. When his case was reviewed by local and state draft authorities, his request was denied as his church was not a recognized Christian sect. In addition, during this period conscientious objectors were still drafted and typically assigned non-combat roles. In November, York was drafted into the U.S. Army, and though his conscientious objector status was considered, he was sent to basic training. A Change of Heart Now 30 years old, York was assigned to Company G, 328th Infantry Regiment, 82nd Infantry Division and posted to Camp Gordon in Georgia. Arriving, he proved a crack shot but was seen as an oddity because he did not wish to fight. During this time, he had extensive conversations with his company commander, Captain Edward C.B. Danforth, and his battalion commander, Major G. Edward Buxton, relating to the Biblical justification for war. A devout Christian, Buxton cited a variety of Biblical sources to counter his subordinates concerns. Challenging Yorks pacifist stance, the two officers were able to convince the reluctant soldier that war could be justified.  Following a 10-day leave to visit home, York returned with a firm belief that God meant for him to fight. In France Traveling to Boston, Yorks unit sailed for Le Havre, France in May 1918 and arrived later that month after a stop in Britain. Reaching the Continent, Yorks division spent time along the Somme as well as at Toul, Lagney, and Marbache, where they underwent a variety of training to prepare them for combat operations along the Western Front. Promoted to corporal, York took part in the St. Mihiel offensive that September as the 82nd sought to protect the US First Armys right flank. With the successful conclusion of fighting in that sector, the 82nd shifted northward to take part in the Meuse-Argonne Offensive. Entering the fighting on October 7 to relieve units of the 28th Infantry Division, Yorks unit received orders that night to advance the next morning to take Hill 223 and press on to sever the Decauville Railroad north of Chatel-Chehery. Advancing around 6 a.m. the next morning, the Americans succeeded in taking the hill. A Tough Assignment Moving forward from the hill, Yorks unit was forced to attack through a triangular valley and quickly came under German machine-gun fire on several sides from the adjacent hills. This stalled the attack as the Americans began taking heavy casualties. In an effort to eliminate the machine guns, 17 men led by Sergeant Bernard Early, including York, were ordered to work around into the German rear. Taking advantage of the brush and hilly nature of the terrain, these troops succeeded in slipping behind the German lines and advanced up one of the hills opposite the American advance. In doing so, they overran and captured a German headquarters area and secured a large number of prisoners including a major. While Earlys men began securing the prisoners, the German machine gunners up the slope turned several of their guns and opened fire on the Americans. This killed six and wounded three, including Early. This left York in command of the remaining seven men. With his men behind cover guarding the prisoners, York moved to deal with the machine guns. A Stunning Achievement Beginning in a prone position, he utilized the shooting skills he had honed as a boy. Picking off the German gunners, York was able to move to a standing position as he evaded enemy fire. During the course of the fight, six German soldiers emerged from their trenches and charged at York with bayonets. Running low on rifle ammunition, he drew his pistol and dropped all six before they reached him. Switching back to his rifle, he returned to sniping at the German machine guns. Believing he had killed around 20 Germans, and not wishing to kill more than necessary, he began calling for them to surrender. Sergeant Alvin York during the action of October 8, 1918 by Frank Schoonover. Public Domain In this, he was aided by the captured major who ordered his men to cease fighting. Rounding up the prisoners in the immediate area, York and his men had captured around 100 Germans. With the majors assistance, York began moving the men back toward the American lines. In the process, another 30 Germans were captured. Advancing through artillery fire, York and the surviving men delivered 132 prisoners to his battalion headquarters. This done, he and his men rejoined their unit and fought through to the Decauville Railroad. In the course of the fight, 28 Germans were killed and 35 machine guns captured. Yorks actions clearing the machine guns reinvigorated the 328ths assault and the regiment advanced to secure a position on the Decauville Railroad. Medal of Honor For his achievements, York was promoted to sergeant and awarded the Distinguished Service Cross. Remaining with his unit for the final weeks of the war, his decoration was upgraded to the Medal of Honor which he received on April 18, 1919. The award was presented to York by American Expeditionary Forces commander General John J. Pershing. In addition to the Medal of Honor, York received the French Croix de Guerre and Legion of Honor, as well as the Italian Croce al Merito di Guerra. When given his French decorations by Marshal Ferdinand Foch, the supreme allied commander commented, What you did was the greatest thing ever accomplished by any soldier by any of the armies of Europe. Arriving back in the United States in late May, York was hailed as a hero and was honored with a ticker-tape parade in New York City. Later Life Though wooed by filmmakers and advertisers, York was eager to return home to Tennessee. Doing so, he married Gracie Williams that June. Over the next several years, the couple had 10 children, eight of whom survived infancy. A celebrity, York took part in several speaking tours and eagerly sought to improve educational opportunities for area children. This culminated with the opening of the Alvin C. York Agricultural Institute in 1926, which was taken over by the State of Tennessee in 1937. Though York possessed some political ambitions, these largely proved fruitless. In 1941, York relented and allowed a film to be made of his life. As the conflict in Europe increased in intensity, what had first been planned as a movie about his work to educate children in Tennessee became an overt statement for intervention in World War II. Starring Gary Cooper, who would win his only Academy Award for his portrayal, Sergeant York proved a box office hit. Though he opposed the U.S. entry into World War II prior to Pearl Harbor, York worked to found the Tennessee State Guard in 1941, serving as colonel of the 7th Regiment and became a spokesperson for the Fight for Freedom Committee, counter to Charles Lindberghs isolationist American First committee. With the beginning of the war, he attempted to re-enlist but was turned away due to his age and weight. Unable to serve in combat, he instead played a role in war bond and inspection tours. In the years after the war, York was plagued by financial problems and was left incapacitated by a stroke in 1954. He died on September 2, 1964, after suffering a cerebral hemorrhage. Sources Birdwell, Michael E. Alvin Cullum York: The Myth, the Man, and the Legacy. Tennessee Historical Quarterly 71.4 (2012): 318–39. Print.Hoobler, James A. Sergeant York Historic Area. Tennessee Historical Quarterly 38.1 (1979): 3–8. Print.Lee, David D. Appalachia on Film: The Making of Sergeant York. Southern Quarterly 19.3 (1981): 207–15.Maestriano, Douglas V. Alvin York: A New Biography of the Hero of the Argonne. Lexington: University Press of Kentucky, 2014.

Prison system in America Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Prison system in America - Essay Example Arguments against imprisonment include the idea that prison is not being used as a last resort to deter criminal behavior, housing prisoners is expensive, imprisonment doesn’t deter crime and it is cruel and inhumane. Despite statistics that confirm these contentions, imprisonment has experienced a growing attraction as a political response to crime. An increased prison population and its inherent human and financial costs have little effect on the attitudes of some. Despite the obvious and extensive failures of our penitentiary system, more people are being sent to prison for more reasons primarily as a result of tougher sentencing laws specifically involving the ‘war on drugs.’ Over the past quarter century, the U.S. has added to its prison population and therefore to its social problems. Anyone who has seen a prison movie likely has witnessed the stereotypical ‘shower scene’ where gang members viciously attack a lone inmate. They put a knife tightl y against the victim’s throat and threaten to kill him if he puts up a fight. The lone inmate is then repeatedly raped by the gang and afterwards is too frightened to notify prison officials fearing retribution. This Hollywood recreation is not unlike the actual events taking place inside prison walls. Being brutally raped in prison is not simply a physical violation; it is an emotionally scarring event. According to the Human Rights Watch, this and other forms of gang-related violence occur regularly in prisons across the country. â€Å"Gang assaults are not uncommon, and victims may be left beaten, bloody and, in the most extreme cases, dead† (â€Å"No Escape†). However, violent and blatant rapes are but one type of sexual abuse many prisoners must endure. The most prevalent form of rape does not occur by means of violence nor have many of the victims been overtly threatened. Nevertheless, they engage in sex acts unwillingly because they do not believe they ha ve a choice. Prison is an intimidating place. Prisoners, especially those new to the system can be easily coerced into doing things such as allowing themselves to be raped or committing violent acts against others out of fear. This type of prison rape is easier to conceal than violent attacks and much easier for prison staff and the general public to ignore. â€Å"For some prisoners, the atmosphere of fear and intimidation is so overwhelming that they acquiesce in their sexual exploitation without putting up any obvious resistance† (â€Å"No Escape,† 2006). The intimidation begins early and forcefully. According to the account of a first-time offender arriving in prison, â€Å"as soon as I walked on the wing, the catcalls started.† According to another prisoner, â€Å"Most of prison is a mind game. People get taken advantage of when they’re green and don’t know what to expect† (â€Å"No Escape,† 2006). Prison is described by its detra ctors as inhumane, a brutalizing and damaging experience. The prevalent imprisonment trend invokes a high human cost to those who caused no harm to another individual or property. The war on drugs is policy based on morals, not on public health, and is taking a grave toll on the economics and civil liberties of our society. Crime is on the rise overcrowding the prison system while inner cities are becoming unlivable decreasing chances for the economic revival in those areas, all as a consequence of a misguided war on drugs to prevent the misuse of drugs. These governmental drug programs have had very little if any reduction in the use of drugs but a great many innocent victims have had their lives ruined. â€Å"

Fallacies Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Fallacies - Assignment Example One common source of fallacies is the media and this paper seeks to examine two exemplary and common fallacies from this source and illustrate how this source construes information to convince the audience. This is a common fallacy that is committed over the television. Ignoratio elenchi directly translates to "irrelevant thesis", which in formal perspective refers to a negation that fails to concentrate on the central argument (Destiny 2008). As commonly seen in televised political debates between presidential candidates, the interviewer might ask one of the candidates how he can handle the rising unemployment rates should he or she become the president, then the candidate may answer â€Å"I am glad you asked, since unemployment is a major problem facing our country, however, my opponent’s strategy to handle this situation is entirely insufficient,† (Destiny 2008). As illustrated from this example, the presidential candidate completely negated the question. This is a potent and a simple form of illogical fallacy. It occurs when an individual misinterprets the position held by the opponent (Destiny 2008). Such an argument was televised in the year 2001 when President George Bush assumed office he advocated for a new system of testing in schools, and then formed an argument that those opposing such a system were not interested in holding the schools responsible for their poor performance. On subjection to retrospection, such an assertion was not true, and it is dismissed on the basis that other political opponents had offered other adequate alternatives. After having studied logic, I explicitly understand how to distinguish between firmly grounded arguments that in essence have a basis from fallacious statements. Therefore, I do not think that I will be fooled by these fallacies. Presenters of fallacious arguments essentially construe information to appeal to the viewer, and as such they generally assume