Water Polo a Sport Like Any Other free essay sample

Under pressure, the clock is ticking and they either need to pass the ball or shoot. No one is open so they push off of their defender, pull up above the water with the ball in their hand. They look at the goalie, and fake that they are going to throw the ball with a few quick flicks of their wrists and their poker faces on, finally, they extend their arm back like a boomerang, within a blink of an eye, they hurl the ball with all their force and THUD! That’s the sound of the ball hitting the back of the goal at approximately fifty miles per hour. Football, Basketball, and Baseball are the most popular sports in America. Water polo is a combination of swimming, basketball, and football; but played in water, yet water polo is not among the most respected. In fact, people forget about it all together. We will write a custom essay sample on Water Polo: a Sport Like Any Other or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Land sports are considered the toughest and most physically demanding sports, but why not water polo? Water polo is just as grueling and aggressive maybe even more, so why is it the most underrated sport? It has all of the added elements in most popular land sports, with an x factor because you also have to be able to keep yourself afloat all while navigating yourself and the ball through the water. Anyone who thinks this is inferior to land sports is clearly fooling themselves. From afar, the players seem to drift effortlessly through the water, and this could be why people don’t think twice about water polo; but when you move up close you can hear the grunts and gasps of exertion. You see waves of water moving aggressively crashing back and forth. As players rise from under the water they reveal scrapes and cuts all over their arms and at least a few players may be sporting impressive black eyes, and the players view these injuries as their badge of courage. It doesn’t look like kids playing in the pool, it looks like a battle field, with each player doing everything they can to survive their opponent’s attempt to drown them. You see that after every goal,missed shot, there is a turnover, and that means a sprint back down to the other side of the pool. After 4 quarters of this, even the most fit of players are exhausted. Three times a week, I would wake-up at 5 in the morning and hop into a pool and work out until my legs could not hold me above the water anymore. Then, I had to swim a mile and a half up and down the pool, while trying to steer the ball in front of me. We practiced some techniques such as dribbling and shooting, it definitely wasn’t as easy as it looked. I was only allowed to touch the ball with one hand at a time. The ball was wet and slippery making the techniques I was learning very difficult to perform. When shooting, I couldn’t touch the ground with my feet which made it more difficult to aim and throw hard. I am constantly treading water, rising up into the air to shoot and block shots. So you can image how upset I get when this sport doesn’t get the same respect as other sports do. This sport is like most land sports, but in water; which in my book makes it a lot more exciting and fun to watch. You will be on the edge of your seats from start to finish. This sport is fast pace and unpredictable. Anything can happen. You watch each player each player working together as a team to get that ball past the goalie. You hear the players screaming at each other, calling out for the ball, moving around, trying to get pass the other player. Like basketball, you see each player constantly under pressure from the ticking of the shot clock, and the reliance of their teammates and coach on making the right move throughout the game. This game is one that you need to be there physically as well as mentally. It is like all other sports a game where work and determination is needed as well as fitness and athletic ability.

Functional hallux limitus Essays - Podiatry, Foot, Arthropathies

Functional hallux limitus Essays - Podiatry, Foot, Arthropathies Functional hallux limitus Functional hallux limitus is generally defined as a deformity of the first metatarsophalangeal joint that acts to restrict the range of movement of dorsiflexion during the propulsive phase of gait. (Chapman C.,1997) Different authors refine this basic definition further, some adding a further qualification that it is defined by a reduction of the range of dorsiflexion to less than 65 degrees. (Camasta C A.,1996). If the range is reduced to less than 5 degrees then the term Hallux rigidus is generally applied and is a subdivision of the clinical spectrum of functional hallux limitus. For the sake of completeness we should record that the normal range is generally 65-75 degrees of dorsiflexion. We should also define the difference between the structural and functional varieties of this condition. The functional variety of the condition is diagnosed only if the restriction in the range of movement is apparent during weightbearing (and by definition is not present during passive, non-weightbearing movement). The structural variety exhibits a restriction of movement in both eventualities. (Dananberg H J et al 1996), The assessment and diagnosis of functional hallux limitus is made either on clinical examination and history or with the assistance of formal gait assessment. As far as the latter is concerned, it is manifest as a biomechanical disability that has the predisposition to result in a comparatively ineffective propulsive mechanism (of varying degrees of severity) during the toe-off phase of the gait cycle. It can be accompanied by forefoot metatarsalgia together with other abnormalities of gait pattern (Townley and Taranow, 1994) The definition of a successful treatment is :To eliminate pain, restore motion, and maintain the strength and stability of the great toe, but must also reconstitute the normal distribution of weightbearing stresses sustained by the transverse metatarsophalangeal arch of the forefoot. (Townley and Taranow, 1994, p.575). Aetiology of the condition This is, to some extent a matter of controversy, as there are thought to be a number of independent but not mutually exclusive theories on the issue. (Laing P.,1995). Many authorities agree that the basic pathology stems from first ray hypermobility which, in itself is secondary to abnormal pronation. (Jahss M.,1982) In lay terms this means that the ray is moving when it should be stable. The fundamental issue here is one of abnormal pronation. During propulsion the subtalar joint is pronated and the midtarsal joint is mobile when it should be locked. This allows the first metatarsal to be hypermobile.. this results in the first metatarsal dorsiflexing when it should be plantarflexing. The less the ability of the first metatarsal to plantarflex, the less becomes the ability of the first metatarsophalangeal joint to move and the greater becomes the need for compensatory mechanisms to come into play. How the condition affects the gait cycle The restriction of flexion in the movement of the of the first metatarsophalangeal joint manifests itself in a number of ways that can be either directly attributable to the condition or also compensatory mechanisms that allow for normal propulsive gait to be accomplished. At the most basic level, the condition affects the ability of the foot to move fully over the hallux when the forefoot is planted on the ground. The degrees of impairment are variable (right up to hallux rigidus) and tend to progress with both age and length of time that the condition has been present. (Root M L et al 1987), Typical signs associated with functional hallux limitus can be pronation of the feet while standing and walking. They will have varying degrees of reduced propulsivity from their gait. They can have either an abductory twist during the gait cycle or can demonstrate an abnormally abducted angle of gait and associated delay in the heel off segment of the gait cycle. (Light M R.,1996) The early stages of the condition (typically in the younger patient) can go unnoticed and undiagnosed but as the condition becomes more advanced and obvious, compensatory changes in the gait cycle can become more apparent and pronounced. Progressive hypopropulsion, varying degrees of pelvic tilt and rounded shoulders are the more progressive accompaniments of the severe condition as the body attempts to compensate for the mechanical disadvantage of the condition. (Dananberg. HJ 1993) The use of orthoses for functional hallux limitus Because we have presented evidence

Review of the movie Waiting for Superman Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Of the Waiting for Superman - Movie Review Example The film was an exhaustive documentary about how America’s public school has degraded which in part can be attributed to policy maker’s neglect and the teacher’s recalcitrant stance against any progressive suggestion that could improve America’s public school system as it now lags behind in terms of STEM performance (Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics) among developed countries. This sorry state of America’s educational system is narrated against the backdrop of America’s policy of No Child Left Behind which was supposed to provide quality education and opportunity to every child in America. To highlight the disconnect between policy and actual sorry state reality of America’s educational system, the story followed the story of five children as they attempt to get a decent education from good schools – which are the charter and magnet schools. These charter schools provide quality education with the right assistance for the learner only that it is not provided to every child in America. In fact, it has to be won through a lottery which in effect, the film depicted that the children’s future in America, especially those who are underprivilidged, rest not on the putative policy of No Child Left Behind but rather on chance depending on the bingo caller’s reel or randomized computer program which made the whole situation not only disgusting but sad. (Prisco). This is the situation where Geoffrey Canada and Michele A. Rhee came where they have to put up against reactionary system and hostile union to do what is right for America’s public school system, at least in their respective jurisdictions, to improve them. Mr. Canada was an untiring educational reformer who was not discouraged by the surrounding of Harlem to put up a school that provides quality education and sends students into college. It was difficult but through persistence and standing against all odds, Mr. Canada was able to overcome funding difficulties to make the Harlen Children’s Zone school operational. Ms. Rhee equally did a daunting task being the Chancellor of Washington D.C. public school system where she vehemently challenged the current status quo of America’s educational system. Doing the right thing with her job meant making unpopular decisions and standing up against the deeply entrenched teacher’s union. In carrying out these tough decision, she has to make a very unpopular decision of closing ineffective schools who are described in the film as â€Å"academic sinkholes† and â€Å"drop out factories† (Waiting for Superman). This was to give way to performing schools to have more resources and provide quality education for children. She also has to stand up against the union who would vilify her because the teacher’s union exalt teachers no matter how ineffectual nor incompetent they are to be heroes and therefore they should not be fired even if they underperform. Ms. Rhee was just a single person but she had to put against an organized union that made up virtually impossible to fire a teacher who had gained tenure after two years of teaching. This system of making it impossible to fire incompetent teachers after gaining tenure is one of the reasons why America’s public school system is deteriorating. If the education system has to improve, this meant standing up against them. They are so protective of their tenure even if it contributed to the deterioration of the public school system that when a proposal was offerred to exchange tenure for merit that would enable teacher’s higher pay, the Washington Teachers’

The Rejection of the Conflict Thesis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

The Rejection of the Conflict Thesis - Essay Example The two men provided evidence of their theory through various examples of when scientists clashed with Catholic authorities or Christendom. Interestingly enough, it has been discovered that most of the evidence presented in these two books was either inaccurate or downright falsified in an effort to prove the theory. For this reason, and the fact that other historical evidence points against this theory, most (if not all) of the scientific community today has just about rejected this Thesis. Holding that cases where religion and science are directly in opposition are rare, and the exception rather than the rule, most of the scientific community considers the Conflict Thesis to be inaccurate. While accepting that there may be a few cases where religion and science may be opposed, this paper contends that there is no intrinsic conflict between the two, thus the rejection of the Conflict Thesis by the scientific community is all but natural.... Written by Andrew Dickson White, who also happens to be one of the co-founders of Cornell University, the book asserted that no matter how honorable and good the â€Å"intention† of religion (or religiously affiliated people), their interference with science always gave a wicked result. White, while supporting the thesis put forward by Draper, put forward a seemingly scholarly piece of work, which seemed properly documented with scholarly looking footnotes. This Theory can be termed to be the reason behind the negative image of religion laymen as well as scientists hold, even to this day. The Theory, though based on false assumptions and outright fabrications, seems to oversimplify the relationship religion has with science. Religion and science have had a complicated relationship that can in no way be termed one-dimensional. In fact, in most cases religion has fostered science and scientific knowledge. Though at times religion or religious authorities have been reluctant to e mbrace science in its entirety, however, it is not true to think that this was the norm. Moreover, agreeing that there have been times when religion and science have come head to head, the conflict between the two has been short lived. Such a conflict is more of an exception than a norm, and the contention of a constant conflict between the two is false and oft exaggerated (take for example the falsified story of Christians proclaiming the earth to be flat, which unfortunately is still thought to be true by many). To say that religion is the cause for the slow growth of science (of for its suppression) is to ignore other factors that have played a part in this regard.

Gentlemans Agreement Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Gentlemans Agreement - Essay Example For example, if an employee at a company says they will get you a job and you have nothing to worry about, this is an example of a gentleman's agreement. However if they are unable to get you the job then you have no legal recourse" (Free Dictionary, 2008, pg. 1). The Law Encyclopedia (2008, pg. 1) says that "Although agreements between individuals often create legally binding commitments, instances may arise in which mutual promises yield no legally enforceable agreement. Sometimes called "gentlemen's agreements," parties may honor them because moral obligations compel observance or because future relations will be more difficult if the present arrangement is broken. International organizations likewise may depend on such informal arrangements so as to maintain comity among members" and that "Occasionally the enabling treaties that create an international organization will leave some procedural or voting matter unresolved. Rather than amend the formal document, which is usually a difficult task, an informal working agreement will develop to resolve a particular problem.

Hanoi: History and Culture

Hanoi: History and Culture HANOI A, Introduction about Hanoi Chapter 1: History 1, Modern History As it had under Chinese rule, Vietnamese nationalism simmered quietly throughout the country, waiting for an opportunity. Young Nguyen Tat Thanh, better known by his alias Ho Chi Minh, thought that the end of WWI was a good opening, so he tried to present a plan for an independent Vietnam to US president Woodrow Wilson at the 1919 Versailles Peace Conference. Evidently, self-determination was for Europeans alone. When France fell to Nazi Germany in 1940, the Vichy government allowed the Japanese to put troops in Vietnam. The United States knew enough not to count on any French resistance, instead opting to pump arms and funding into the communist-dominated Viet Minh forces. Our leader, Ho Chi Minh, graciously accepted and began harassing the Japanese mercilessly. After the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Uncle Ho called for a general uprising known as the August Revolution, and on September 2, 1945, Ho Chi Minh and his National Liberation Committee (with US officials at his side) declared the Democratic Republic of Vietnam independent at a rally in Ba Dinh Square. The French were not pleased, and fought the Viet Minh tooth and nail for eight years, despite a massive military aid package from the USA and formal recognition by both China and the USSR. On May 7, 1954, the French threw in the towel and surrendered North Vietnam to the Viet Minh. Fiercely anti-communist leader Ngo Dinh Diem was elected (more or less; a lot of dead people voted in that election) president of South Vietnam. Soon afterward, the USA closed its consulate in Hanoi. In 1959, Southern cadres asked that the North Vietnamese join them in armed struggle against the Diem regime. Hanoi responded by agreeing to help the National Liberation Front (NLF), also known as the Viet Cong, who were mainly communist South Vietnamese resisters with little training. Without French troops, however, the South Vietnamese army was incredibly weak, and the Western world looked on nervously as Diem began losing control of the situation. The USA sent 2000 military advisers to South Vietnam in 1961, the number swelling to 23,000 by 1964. By then, Hanoi was no longer helping the NLF out with guns and training; they were sending trained North Vietnamese troops across the border. Despite small victories, Hanois war didnt seem winnable until the 1968 Tet Offensive, when Hanoi gained the upper hand. The USA continued to throw warm bodies to the tune of 3.14 million men and women at the increasingly bloody conflict until the 1973 cease-fire. The USA evacuated almost all troops out of Vietnam in return for Hanois commitment to keep communism above the 17th parallel. They also cut off most financial and other aid to South Vietnam. By 1975, the southern half of the country was r unning on fumes. North Vietnam launched a massive attack on the South on January 1975; Saigon surrendered in April. No one, least of all the leadership in Hanoi, was prepared for reunification. At least two million Vietnamese had died in the conflict and scars ran deep; the environment and economy were shambles. The violence wasnt over, either: In 1979, answering for Vietnams 1978 invasion of Cambodia, China attacked Hanoi. The Chinese were repelled within 17 brutal days. The 1980s witnessed a devastating famine that left Hanoi with rice shortages and strict rations, a continuing guerrilla war with the Khmer Rouge in Cambodia and the opening of European communism. Surprisingly, Vietnam finished the decade in much better shape than it started. In February 1990, the government called for more openness and criticism, but was unprepared for the seething discontent behind the floodgates. Hanoi backtracked, but began allowing more economic openness while keeping government structure (and media access) in a lockbox. In 1992 Vietnam signed a peace treaty with Cambodia, and in 1994, the USA lifted economic sanctions on the country. The two former enemies now maintain diplomatic relations. 2, Recent History As the economy continues to open to foreign investment and private ownership, Hanois leadership remains in the hands of hard-line communists. The economys command structure insulated Vietnam from the worst of the Asian economic crisis (though its currency was devalued twice); the crisis actually increased confidence in the Communist Party. The growing private business sector in the city makes it obvious; however, that capitalism is making sturdy inroads into Vietnam. While the government is eyeing Most Favored Nation status with the US and, eventually, membership of the WTO, its human rights record is bound to be a stumbling block. 3, Pre 20th Century History Human habitation of Northern Vietnam goes back about 500,000 years according to archaeological evidence. The site of present-day Hanoi has been populated for at least 10,000 years. These first inhabitants formed a feudally organized society that first relied on hunting, fishing and gathering, later developing animal husbandry and agriculture. These tribes developed in relative isolation until about 2000 years ago. The Han Chinese set up a military garrison near present-day Hanoi in 214 BC, using it as a base of operations that would eventually control most of modern Vietnam. The next 1000 years of Chinese rule introduced important technological innovations to the Vietnamese, including ploughs and irrigation systems. But rebellion simmered in every town, and the millennium was punctuated by revolution and resistance. This tradition of rebellion shaped Vietnams national character. Vietnamese rebels saw their chance when Chinas Tang dynasty collapsed. In 938, revolutionary leader Ngo Quyen gave the Chinese a sound whipping and established an independent Vietnamese state, but after his death the region fell into anarchy. In 980, Vietnam became a semi-independent client state of China, stabilizing the situation all for the cost of a biannual tribute. For the next 400 years, the site of present-day Hanoi served as the administrative seat for all of Vietnam. The Grand Royal enclosure, now the citys Old Quarter, was constructed and the nations first university, the Temple of Literature, was founded during the first century of home rule. Attacks by the Khmers, Chinese and even Kublai Khan were repelled by national forces. All this was done with little Chinese interference. The Chinese never forgot their plum province, however, and in 1400 they captured Hanoi again. National hero Le Lois guerrilla tactics and peasant support eventually reclaimed Vietnamese independenc e. A period of nationalism and renewed interest in Confucianism followed a reaction to increased discontent with Europeans, their values and their missionaries. The missionaries didnt take the hint, however, and in 1858 several were killed. The French had an excuse to invade, and by 1867 South Vietnam was a French colony. Hanoi was captured in 1874. The impotent imperial court was allowed to remain, indulging itself in various coups and capers, but the French controlled the nation. Chapter 2: Geography and climate Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam. It is located at 20Â °25 latitude North and 105Â °30 longitude East in the plains of North Vietnam. There are many rivers flowing eastwards to the sea. This is a convenient transport cluster for all the Northern provinces. The climate is tropical and affected by monsoons. There are four seasons in Hanoi, there are: Spring; it starts from February to April; average temperature is from 15Â ° to 20Â °C (59Â ° -68Â ° F), drizzle is frequent with wet weather. This is the season of the Lunar New Year holiday and many folk festivals. Summer; it starts from May to August; average temperature is from 30Â ° to 36Â ° C (86Â ° -97Â ° F). There is much rain and sunshine. Autumn; it starts from September to November; average temperature is 25Â ° to 36Â ° C (75Â ° 97Â °F). It is cool, clear and dry. This is the best season in Hanoi, but it is short, lasting no more than 50-60 days. Winter; it starts from December to January; the lowest temperature is from 10Â ° to 15Â °C (48Â ° -59 Â °F). The weather is cloudy and wet. The monsoons c ause many phases of cold. The annual average rainfall in Hanoi is 1800 mm. In the past, many rivers flowed through Hanoi, but they changed their currents from time to time, therefore the ground is mainly deposited by alluvium and there are many lakes. These rivers and lakes give Hanoi a natural beauty. In the flood season, the water level of the largest rivers flowing through Hanoi (the Red River, the Duong, Nhue, Day Rivers) rises very high. During ancient times, the Vietnamese people have built thousands of kilometers of dykes by the river banks. Nowadays, in the city, some sections of the ancient dykes have become traffic roads Chapter 3: Administrative zones At the present time, Hanoi comprises 7 inner districts and 5 suburban districts. Nevertheless, districts may be increased in number as the capital is developing fast together with the country. The 7 inner districts of Hanoi are: Hoan Kiem district: This is a trade, cultural and administrative centre. The Municipal Peoples Committee, the Central Bank and important state offices are located in this district. It also includes theatres, railway stations, markets and busy commercial streets. There are two bridges link Hoan Kiem district with the other side of the Red River. Hoan Kiem Lake in the centre of the district is considered as the heart of the capital. Its ancient streets still keep deep imprints of Hanois millenary history; therefore they should be protected as historical relics. The Hoan Kiem lake description will be explain further in next chapter. Ba Dinh district: Ba Dinh district is located at South of West Lake, a zone where many highest state bodies and diplomatic office s are located. The Mausoleum and Museum of Ho Chi Minh and the Hanoi old citadel are also located in this district. The Western part of this district is being reconstructed through large projects. Hai Ba Trung district is situated of Hoan Kiem Lake including trade and administrative zones. It is developing southwards, covering some industrial and population localities between the National Road 1 A and the Red river. Dong Da district. This is a Southwest expanded part of the city including many common living quarters, colleges, hospitals and factories built in the 1960s and 1970s. Large transport routes and multi-storey buildings are now under construction in this district in the Southern part of Dong Da lake. Recently, the districts of Tay Ho, Thanh Xuan and Cau Giay have been formed on the territory of the old districts and precincts to satisfy the development demands of the city. In these new districts, the construction tempo has increased on the basis of the better planning. The suburban districts of Tu Liem and Thanh Tri are located in the South of the city; Dong Anh and Soc Son districts are in the North; and Gia Lam districts are in the East. Formerly, these districts were agricultural areas, providing the capital with food and vegetables. At present, new factories, industrial and export processing zones are being established in this district. http://www.vietnamembassy-usa.org/learn_about_vietnam/geography/ha_noi/ Chapter 4: Hanois people There was a long period in the northern part of the country of relative isolation from the west. Thus Vietnamese in Hanoi and its surrounding areas tend to be quite curious about westerners. Travelers should expect to be watched and commented on, and to be asked questions considered somewhat intrusive by western standards (how old are you, are you married, how much money do you make, why do you have those children, etc.). None of this is meant to cause offense; it is just a simple curiosity. Vietnamese live much more out in their neighborhoods than do typical westerners, who live and work in closed-up buildings and travel everywhere by car, and are avid observers of (and commentators on) life around them. Hanoians are overwhelmingly honest and good-natured people. There is no animosity toward Americans left over from the war. People tend to be forward-looking and prefer not to dwell on the past; they are pragmatic, down-to-earth, and extremely hard-working, particularly women. Adults almost universally dote on children. Travelers can expect to have their babies taken away to be held, and their children of all ages entertained in shops, restaurants, and hotels. Merchants and peddlers do see western travelers as great sources of income and relatively easy marks. They bargain aggressively and overcharge without mercy (but will scrupulously count change when the bargain is struck). Small children selling postcards and shoe shining services can be quite ruthless. People asking for hand-outs are very persistent and at times unpleasant. Travelers who walk purposefully, say no firmly to unwanted offers, and make minimal eye contact are fare best. * * * B. Special features in Hanoi Chapter 1: Hanoi 36 streets 1, History of Hanois Old quarter As the oldest continuously developed area of Vietnam, Hanois Old Quarter has a history that spans 2,000 years and represents the eternal soul of the city. Located between the Lake of the Restored Sword, the Long Bien Bridge, a former city rampart, and a citadel wall, the Old Quarter started as a snake and alligator-infested swamp. It later evolved into a cluster of villages made up of houses on stilts, and was unified by Chinese administrators who built ramparts around their headquarters. The area was named Dominated Annam or Protected South by the Chinese. The Old Quarter began to acquire its reputation as a crafts area when the Vietnamese attained independence in the 11th century and King Ly Thai To built his palace there. In the early 13th century, the collection of tiny workshop villages which clustered around the palace walls evolved into craft cooperatives, or guilds. Skilled craftsmen migrated to the Quarter, and artisan guilds were formed by craftsmen originating from the same village and performing similar services. Members of the guilds worked and lived together, creating a cooperative system for transporting merchandise to the designated streets in the business quarter. Because inhabitants of each street came from the same village, streets developed a homogeneous look. Commoners homes evolved out of market stalls, before streets were formed. Because storekeepers were taxed according to the width of their storefront, storage and living space moved to the rear of the buildings. Consequently, the long and narrow buildings were called tube houses. Typical measurements for such houses are 3 meters wide by 60 meters long. The Old Quarter has a rich religious heritage. When the craftsmen moved from outlying villages into the capital, they brought with them their religious practices. They transferred their temples, pagodas and communal houses to their new location. Each guild has one or two religious structures and honors its own patron saint or founder. Therefore, on each street in the Old Quarter there is at least one temple. Now, many of the old temples in the Old Quarter have been transformed into shops and living quarters, but some of the old buildings religious roots can still be recognized by the architecture of their roofs. Although the old section of Hanoi is often called the 36 Old Streets, there are more than 36 actual streets. Some researchers believe that the number 36 came from the 15th century when there might have been 36 guild locations, which were workshop areas, not streets. When streets were later developed, the guild names were applied to the streets. Others attribute the 36 to a more abstract concept. The number nine in Asia represents the concept of plenty. Nine times the four directions makes 36, which simply means many. There are now more than 70 streets in the area. Some streets have achieved fame by their inclusion in popular guidebooks. Han Gai Street offers silk clothing ready-made and tailored, embroidery, and silver products. Hang Quat, the street that formerly sold silk and feather fans, now stuns the visitor by its brilliantly colored funeral and festival flags and religious objects and clothing. To Thinh Street connects the above two and is still the wood turners street. Hang Ma glimmers with shiny paper products, such as gift wrappings, wedding decorations and miniature paper objects to burn for the dead. Lan Ong Street is a sensual delight of textures and smells emanating from the sacks of herbal medicinal products: leaves, roots, barks, and powders In the early 13th century, the collection of tiny workshop villages which clustered around the palace walls evolved into craft cooperatives, or guilds. The Old Quarterbegan to acquire its reputation as a crafts area when the Vietnamese attained independence in the 11th century and King Ly Thai To built his palace there. In the early 13th century, the collection of tiny workshop villages which clustered around the palace walls evolved into craft cooperatives, or guilds. Skilled craftsmen migrated to the Quarter, and artisan guilds were formed by craftsmen originating from the same village and performing similar services. Members of the guilds worked and lived together, creating a cooperative system for transporting merchandise to the designated streets in the business quarter. Because inhabitants of each street came from the same village, streets developed a homogeneous look. Commoners homes evolved out of market stalls, before streets were formed. Because storekeepers were taxed according to the width of their storefront, storage and living space moved to the rear of the buildings. Consequently, the long and narrow buildings were called tube houses. Typical measurements for such houses are 3 meters wide by 60 meters long. The Old Quarter has a rich religious heritage. When the craftsmen moved from outlying villages into the capital, they brought with them their religious practices. They transferred their temples, pagodas and communal houses to their new location. Each guild has one or two religious structures and honors its own patron saint or founder. Therefore, on each street in the Old Quarter there is at least one temple. Now, many of the old temples in the Old Quarter have been transformed into shops and living quarters, but some of the old buildings religious roots can still be recognized by the architecture of their roofs. Although the old section of Hanoi is often called the 36 Old Streets, there are more than 36 actual streets. Some researchers believe that the number 36 came from the 15th century when there might have been 36 guild locations, which were workshop areas, not streets. When streets were later developed, the guild names were applied to the streets. Others attribute the 36 to a more abstract concept. The number nine in Asia represents the concept of plenty. Nine times the four directions makes 36, which simply means many. There are now more than 70 streets in the area. Some streets have achieved fame by their inclusion in popular guidebooks. Han Gai Street offers silk clothing ready-made and tailored, embroidery, and silver products. Hang Quat, the street that formerly sold silk and feather fans, now stuns the visitor by its brilliantly colored funeral and festival flags and religious objects and clothing. To Thinh Street connects the above two and is still the wood turners street. Hang Ma glimmers with shiny paper products, such as gift wrappings, wedding decorations and miniature paper objects to burn for the dead. Lan Ong Street is a sensual delight of textures and smells emanating from the sacks of herbal medicinal products: leaves, roots, barks, and powders. 2, Some streets in Old Quarter -Hang Bac Street A majority of the street names in the Old Quarter start with the word hang. Hang means merchandise or shop. The guild streets were named for their product, service or location. Hang Bac, one of the oldest streets in Vietnam, dates from at least the 13th century. Bac means silver, and appropriately, this street started as a silver ingot factory under the reign of Le Thanh Tong (1469-1497). Village people, called the Trau Khe silver casters, were brought into the capital to cast silver bars and coins. After a ceremony to transfer their craft from their village of Trau Khe to Hanoi, they set up two temples to honor the founders of their craft. At one communal house, the silver was molten and poured into molds. At the other communal house, the molds were further processed for delivery to the Prime Minister. The crafters went to great lengths to keep their methods secret to avoid counterfeit products. At the turn of the 18th century, the street took on more varied functions. In addition to the casting of silver ingots, the street attracted more jewelry makers and money exchangers. Money exchangers thrived, since in the old days, paper money was not used. Instead, currency consisted of bronze and zinc coins and silver ingots. When merchants needed a large amount of money for business transactions, they would exchange the heavy metal bars on Hang Bac. During the French time it was called Exchange Street. Although paper currency was later used, the word for it included the word bac. Hang Bac also has jewelers of different types: engravers, smelters, polishers, and gold-leaf makers. The first jewelry makers were the Dong Cac guild, which settled during the Le dynasty (1428-1788). They founded a temple dedicated to three brothers who learned their art in China in the 6th century, and who are considered the patron saints of the Vietnamese jewelry making profession. There are several famous buildings on this street. In the communal house on Hang Bac, there is a stone stele, built in 1783, telling about a Mandarin who forcibly took over the communal house. The locals took him to court and won back their building. The Dung Tho Temple is dedicated to Chu Bi, a Taoist deity. At the end of the French colonial period, this temple had been named Truong Ca, after a person who watched over the temple and served the best noodle soup. One building on this street is the pride of contemporary history-the Chuong Vang (Golden Bell) Theater, which still hosts traditional Vietnamese theater performances. The former traditional-venue theater, the To Nhu (Quang Lac) Theater built in the 1920s, also is on this street but has been transformed into apartments. -Hang Be Street In the mid-19th century, the guild of bamboo raft makers was located on this street outside the My Loc gate, one of the many sturdy gates to the city. The cai mang raft consisted of 12 to 15 large bamboo poles lashed together by strips of green bamboo bark. Their anterior was slightly raised by heating the wood, and the aft was rigged with three quadrangular sails made of coarse linen dyed with extracts of sweet potato skins. Bamboo rafts were sensible for Hanois shallow rivers, lakes and swamps, which can not provide solid anchorage or natural shelter from storms. The flat design better weathered the seasonal typhoons that lash the northern part of Vietnam, and is better adapted to coastal and river fishing. The bamboo poles from which the rafts were constructed were sold one block east on Hang Tre Street. -Cau Go Street Meaning Wooden Bridge, Cau Go Street is located one block north of the Lake of the Restored Sword, and was in fact the location of a wooden bridge. About 150 years ago, the bridge crossed a thin stream of water connecting the Thai Cuc Lake with the Lake of the Restored Sword. Dyers from the neighboring Silk Street set out their silk to dry or bleached their fabric beside the bridge. Under the French occupation, the lake and stream were filled as health measures and to increase buildable land. The little wooden bridge became a regular street. On the edge of the lake, women in wide brimmed hats once sold armfuls of flowers to the French for a few coins. Today a flower market exists where the Cau Go alley intersects with the main street. Other historical sites on Cau Go are the secret headquarters and hiding place of the 1930-45 Love the Country resistance movement. Cau Gotoday is a commercial street specializing in womens accessories. -Hang Dao Street This street is one of Vietnams oldest streets. It serves as a main axis running from north to south, cutting the Old Quarter in half. In the French Colonial time, Hang Dao Street was a center for the trading of silk products. On the first and sixth days of the lunar month, there were fairs for the sale of silk items. Shops also sold other types of fabric such as gauze, brocade, crepe, and muslin. Almost all the non-silk products were white. In the beginning of the 15th century, this street was the location of the silk dyer guild from the Hai Hung Province, which specialized in a deep pink dye. Dao, the name of the street, refers to the pink of apricot blossoms, which are symbolic of the Vietnamese Lunar New Year. The demand for this special color was so high that the fabric had to be dyed at other locations as well. Hang Thiec is the street of tinsmiths. The craftsmen originally produced small tin cone-shaped tips which were used to preserve the shape of the traditional conical hats By the 18th century, the dye colors diversified. In the 18th-century work Notes About the Capital, the author wrote that Hang Dao guild does dying work. It dyes red as the color of blood, black as Chinese ink, and other beautiful colors. In the 19th century, Hang Dao was lined by about 100 houses, of which only 10 or so were constructed of bricks. The rest were of thatch. On the side of the street alongside the now filled-in Hang Dao Lake, the foundations of the houses have visibly sunk lower than the road. By the turn of this century, Indian textile merchants opened shops for trading silk and wool products imported from the West. This street now specializes in ready-made clothing. -Dong Xuan Street/ Market Street This street originally belonged to two villages-the even numbered houses were occupied by the Nhiem Trung village, and the odd numbered houses were occupied by the Hau Tuc village. The Dong Xuan market, Vietnams oldest and largest market, occupies half of the street. River networks formed the economic hub of Hanoi by providing a system of waterways which fed the city and markets. Located at the confluence of the To Lich and Red Rivers, the Dong Xuan market was once one of the busiest urban areas in Southeast Asia. The French required merchants to bring their goods inside the fenced perimeter of the market in order to facilitate tax collections. When the number of merchants swelled, the market was enlarged. In 1889, a structure was built over it, and five gates were built leading to it. Each of the five market gates was used only for specified goods. In 1992, the market was renovated and a new facade erected. -Hang Mam Street Hang Mamis the union of two old streets: an eastern offshoot called Hang Trung and the original Hang Mam. The name is derived from the various kinds of mam, or fish sauces, that are produced and sold here, as well as other sea products. The street was originally on the riverside, close to the days catch. Nuoc mam, or fish sauce, is made from fish that are too small to be sold individually which are placed in clay vats with water and salt. Boiled water is poured over the fish and weights are placed on top of the mixture to compress it. The concoction distills for days, and the result is a clear amber juice that is rich in protein, vitamins and minerals. With aging, the fierce ammoniac odors of the fish become mellow, and like brandy, the flavor improves. The first pressing, which is the clearest and purest, is called nuoc mam nhi, or prime. The sauce was stored in barrels made on adjacent Hang Thung Street. In the 1940s, new specialties appeared on the street. A small ceramics industry appeared along with those of memorial stone etching, coffin, and tombstone manufacturers. -Ma May Street This street also is a union of two old streets. Hang May sold rattan products, and Hang Ma sold sacred joss (paper replicas of money, clothing, even stereo sets) to burn for the dead. Ma is burned in front of the altar of ancestors accompanied by prayers. Around the turn of the century, the streets became one: Ma May. On the edge of the lake, women in wide brimmed hats once sold armfuls of flowers to the French for a few coins. In the French time, this street was called Black Flag Street because the soldier Luu Vinh Phuc had his headquarters here. Luu was the leader of the Black Flags, a bandit unit operating around Hanoi in the late 19th century. They were essentially pirates who made a living robbing villagers and merchants. In the 1880s, the Black Flags cooperated with the Vietnamese Imperial Forces to resist the French who were attempting to gain military control of Hanoi. In the middle of the street is the Huong Tuong temple, established in 1450, which honors Nguyen Trung Ngan (1289-1370), a governor of Thang Long, the former name of Hanoi. -Hang Thiec Street Hang Thiecis the street of tinsmiths. The craftsmen originally produced small tin cone-shaped tips which were used to preserve the shape of the traditional conical hats. A neighboring street, Hang Non, made the hats, and both streets comprised the Yen No hamlet. Hang Thiec Street also produced oil lamps, candle sticks, and opium boxes. Tin shops sold mirrors, which they still do today, along with sheet metal, zinc, and glass. The street echoes busily with the clanging of hammers against the sheet metal. Workers spread out on the sidewalk shaping metal storage boxes and other objects to custom order. -Hang Thung Street In the old days, on this block inside the Dong Yen gate, barrels were manufactured. The barrels were used for storing and carrying water and fish sauce. The communal house and the temple of the barrel makers guild is located at 22 Hang Thung, but is hidden behind newer buildings. The street is shaded by the leaves of the xoan tree which has a fluffy cream colored cluster flower and bright red berries. The tree has various English names: Margosa, Bead, or China Berry tree. In May, the tiny flowers fall to the ground like yellow confetti. The furrowed bark is often scraped off by local residents, who dry and boil it to make a medicinal infusion as a vermifuge. The Old Quarter is a precious legacy of Hanois ancient past, but the area is challenged by rapid changes. Today, handicraft production is increasingly replaced by restaurants, repair shops, and mini hotels. Historic buildings have become mass living spaces and schools as the population increases. Craft workers now constitute nine percent of the neighborhood. Traders make up 40 percent.With the new economic policies, a dramatic building boom has begun, threatening the charm of the district. Local, national, and international agencies are now formulating plans to preserve the historic ambiance of the Old Quarter. Meaning of the 36 streets (just old name but in fact more than there) Street Name: Description: Bat Dan Wooden Bowls Bat Su China Bowls Cha Ca Roasted Fish Chan Cam String Instruments Cho Gao Rice Market Gia Ngu Fishermen Hai Tuong Sandals Hang Bac Silversmiths Hang Be Rafts Hang Bo Basket Hang Bong Cotton Hang Buom Sails Hang But Brushes Hang Ca Fish Hang Can Scales Hang Chai Bottles Hang Chi Threads Hang Chieu Mats Hang Chinh Jars Hang Cot Bamboo Lattices Hang Da Leather Hang Dao (Silk) Dyer Hang Dau Bean

First time :: essays research papers

The first time event that I remember best is my first time in Blue Water. It was a life altering event for me, and I am thankful for it. I forgot what the most important thing in life was, and I became a bad person and I did bad things, in turn ended me up in jail. I have to admit it at first I was scared so bad I was sick to my stomach. I remember the thoughts that were going through my head. I kept thinking about all the movies I have seen about jail, that just made it worse, and it really bothered me that I would have to get a strip search.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Once I was there, it had a smell that I could never forget; it was a sterile smell but at the same time grungy. I had to strip in front of a guard. He took my clothes and gave me burgundy shirt and sweat pants. After your search they take you to the doctors to look at you and see if you have any problems. Then a guard will take you to the admission house, it was called Trent House. Trent has 18 hour lock up and half an hour outside time. When you are in that house it has very limited privileges, also it has big, thick metal doors that have huge locks on them.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  When I walked into the range I was scared, but I was trying to look like I wasn’t. When I got out of my room, I had one guy come up and tell me to fight someone, and told me if I didn’t that him and three other guys would jump me. The way people handle things in there is extremely different then the way people do in society. You have to fight for your respect, and that’s all that counts. I found myself not as afraid once you have some respect. Its not exactly like real jail, people don’t get raped or killed, but in a way it is in the fact fighting solves all problems.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  When I was transferred to Georgian House I got that feeling in my stomach again, because Georgian held people that have worse crimes and have been there longer. It was the exact same, fight and people won’t bother you. We showered alone, and we only got a little paper cup of shampoo and a little bar of soap.

My Elder Sister who is My Personal Leader Essay

When I started this class on Leadership I used my own Elder Sister as an example of a leader because when I think of some of the positive characteristics of organizational leaders my elder sister keeps coming to my mind. She is brave and courageous facing challenges most would have given up on. She is giving and caring, encouraging and supportive. She wants only the best for our family, helping us face life by teaching us skills and lessons. My Elder sister listened deeply to our joys, struggles, and achievements- never judging, simply being there. We could count on my elder sister to pull our family together, to connect us. She planned and organized incredible events and let us all shine in the process. My Elder sister was my tutor and the first leader in my life. The space she carved out for us in the world is what gave us room to grow. the reason of that in our family we are five sisters and one brother and our grandparents were staying with us that’s why some of our relati ves always present in our house. So it’s very difficult for my mother to maintain that entire situation without a strong helping hand and that hand name is my elder sister. She always plays a supportive role for my mother. My father was a businessman and also a too busy person who had no specific time for his family and children. Since my mother worked hard all the time and never really had time for us, she used to leave us with my elder sister and she looked after us like her child. Basically when my sister was 15, my mother trusted her enough to take care of us and make decision for us and she achieves this trust with doing her responsibility properly. When we were sad as little kids we could run to my elder sister and it would be all better. As we are growing up and in our teen years we still need someone to talk to sometimes and we need to listen. She always listens and gives us good advice. My elder sister knows us better than anyone. She knows how to make us cry, how to make us happy. She knows all of our strengths and weaknesses. My elder sister is courageous and knows how to take control. She can make things fun but at the same time gets the job done. She knows what has to be done and gets it done on time. My elder sister is like the leader of my family because when things need to get done she takes control and gets them done. People need to learn to make the right decisions. That is one of the most important qualities a leader can have. As her sister, I would like to tell everyone that my elder sister taught us how to make the right decisions. My elder sister appears to always make the right decisions. As a teenager, it might not appear like she is right, but when looking back on the situation I realize that the right decision was made. She is open to ideas of other people she will always listen to our ideas and considers them when making decisions. A leader is someone who shows admirable qualities that people would want to follow. A leader can also be a person that is the head of some organization. My personal leaders are my elder sister. Some people might question that, but my elder sister has all the qualities of a leader. Some of the qualities she have are that she know when to say no, they always seem to make the right decisions, As I read through my notes which I got in this leadership class, I wasn’t surprised to find that my reflections revealed that my Elder sister is a natural born leader. Although she has never been a CEO of a company, she possesses many of the most significant qualities inherent in many of our best. She has been fair and even-handed, positive and persuasive, hard working and determined. But most of all, she knew how to draw out the best in each one of her family members. My elder sister could always see the shining ray of hope in all situations. When I would talk to her about personal or professional challenges she would say that life has it’s â€Å"ups and the downs†, and that the most important thing to find the balance and inner-peace within. I feel blessed to have inherited some of my Elder sister’s innate sense of optimism, sensibility and courage. It is clear to me that create a confidant that I am today, mostly due to the positive beliefs that were inspired upon me as a young sister. Words of wisdom from my Elder sister that I always carry with me are: â€Å"This too shall pass†. As leaders, my Elder sister’s advice implies that we must learn how to â€Å"let go† and trust. This means we can’t control everything around us. It means asking others for help. It means not giving up. From this place of trust, humility and hope, we can honestly discover how to serve one another. And so, as I move forward in life, I can only hope that I have received even a small portion of her elegance, wisdom and self-respect as I proceed with my life. At last I want to Thank my Elder sister for leading the way†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦

What do Women Writers Want from an Editor

What do Women Writers Want from an Editor What do Women Writers Want from an Editor? Laurie Garrison, Ph.D.  is the director of Women Writers School, a blog and course provider that works mainly with female authors. She has recently self-published a manifesto for her business, Women Writers in the Twenty-First Century. Previously, she was a university lecturer, an internationally renown critic of Victorian literature and the author of the book,  Science, Sexuality and Sensation Novels: Pleasures of the Senses.The online world is bursting with free advice for writers. Everywhere I look I see articles geared toward helping the writer shape her emails, pitches, proposals, synopses and, above all, her manuscripts into something an agent, editor or publisher wants to see. When the time comes to approach our target reader (whether they're an agent, editor or publisher), we must tread very carefully indeed. We must make no approach until we have completed the necessary research on titles, authors, style and interests (not our own but those of our target reader).When we make that first contact, we must be concise and get straight to the point. Our reader has very little time to spare. We must list our achievements with confidence but not boast too much, lest we irritate our reader before the attachment is even opened. We must choose the perfect comparison titles, but only those that strongly resonate with our intended reader, and we must get this right or a door will slam in our faces. We must be keen but not so keen that we ever chase for a response because, unless successful, a response is just too much to expect.Publishing Advice and Women’s Experience: Is Change Afoot?This detail-oriented, anxiety-ridden, almost desperate determination to shape oneself into whatever it is the recipient on the other end of the email journey wants is familiar to a lot of women, not just in publishing but in other competitive professional situations as well. The question of whether a woman should mold herself to fit the world around her (what I’d cal l the 'Lean In' approach) or whether it is the outside world that needs to change (what I’d call the 'Lean Out' approach) is a subject of much debate in modern feminism. Clearly, the majority of us in publishing are taking the 'Lean In' approach, not least because sometimes we just want to get published and will have to reform the world at another time.However, we are operating at a time where things are changing quickly. I wonder if a changed world, where agents, editors, and publishers cater more to the needs of writers, might not be so far away after all. In recent years, the rise of ebooks, the social web, and self-publishing have turned traditional publishing on its head. Dedicated independent authors can now sell as many books as authors from the Big Five. In the new status quo, it matters much, much more what the audience thinks than what the agent, editor or publisher thinks. "In the new status quo, what readers think matters MUCH more than what agents or publishers do" Add to this that women are experiencing a disproportionate amount of success in self-publishing, and I would very much like to ask, will there be a time where agents, publishers, and editors must cater not just to writers, but to women writers? What would the profession look like if it was shaped to suit the needs of female writers rather than the schedules and budgets of the publishing industry? For the sake of discussion, I propose that it would look very different from the world currently represented on publishing advice websites. That is where a writer is encouraged to mold every detail of herself and her work to fit what a hypothetical agent, editor or publisher is looking for -   whether the idea of that agent, editor or publisher is realistic or not. "What would publishing look like if it was shaped to suit the needs of female writers?" A New Kind of Writer-Editor RelationshipI’m going to propose a more equal relationship between writer and editor. It's a kind of relationship that represents what I think a woman wants from an editor. I can’t speak for all women, but I do speak from experience. I’m basing my description on many years of teaching mainly female students, supervising the work of postgraduate students (again, mostly female), working as an editor, teaming up with colleagues to act as co-editors and working with commissioning editors, peer reviewers and journal editors on my personal list of publications. I’m using ‘editor’ as a catch-all to mean anyone who takes part in a developmental editing process, so I think some or all of this could apply to agents, editors, and publishers.I believe there are three qualities to writer-editor relationships that work best for women. There needs to be a sense of shared responsibility for the quality of the work (as opposed to a top-down or competitive atmosphere), lots of personal interaction in the form of frequent communication, and the development of a long-term relationship where trust and familiarity can develop. Here’s what I think this would look like in practice.1. The process of editing and revising a manuscript would be a  team effortIn my best editing relationships, the editor reads the writer’s work with the intention of making the manuscript better, not with prescriptive solutions but with questions and pointers where the writing has become loose. After all, it should be the writer’s responsibility to come up with the solution. This type of back and forth between editor and writer is especially crucial when complex ideas are involved: spelling them out enough to engage the reader engages while avoiding the pitfall of being too pedantic. In my experience, this kind of collaboration works best through conversations, not email or comments on manuscripts. If there are multip le ways of improving particular portions of a text, a conversation is often the most successful means of working this out. "Editing often works best through conversations, not emails or comments on manuscripts." 2. The editor would be able to judge the right time to empower the writer to take charge of editorial decision-makingEvery manuscript is different, and every subject is different. There is no one-size-fits-all solution for any editing challenge. If the editor is acting as an expert on structure and style, then the writer should be the expert on content and whether or not proposed changes work with the content. I have done developmental editing on manuscripts about subjects as disparate as eighteenth-century phrenology and the US-UK special relationship in James Bond novels. My role as editor in these situations has been to think creatively about how that unique subject would be best presented to an audience, bearing in mind that the final say has to go to the author as the person who knows more about the subject than anyone else.Very often, editorial decisions will depend on subject matter expertise. At these times, pointing out where there are decisions to be made is a better course of action than trying to work out a solution.3. There would be a balance of positive and negative criticismThe process of editing focuses so much on negative criticism (with the best of intentions) that it is easy to forget that a writer also needs to know what works well in a manuscript and which are the stand-out points that should be kept at all costs. There have been times when I have got the distinct feeling that my editor was desperately searching for corrections to make. I mean, for example, lots of unnecessary fiddling with word choice when the edit was supposed to be a big picture view of the manuscript. Sometimes a manuscript doesn’t need much work, but an editor wants to feel like they’re doing their job. Not just in these situations, but in any editing task, we should seek to fill up at least some of the space with positive criticism because it can be equally helpful for honing technique and developing confidence. "The editing process often focuses too much on negative criticism" #amediting w. @lauriebg_ 4. There would be regular, enjoyable communication between editor and writerI have had a number of editing relationships where I really looked forward to the conversations I would have with my editor or with the writer. But I have had an equal amount where there was no possibility of having any conversation at all and I had to make my best guess at exactly what the editor was asking me to do when the comments were unclear. I just don’t think an editor-writer relationship can be completely successful if there is no possibility for conversations between the editor and writer, at the very least to get clarification on some of the comments. When communication has been at its best in my relationships of this type, discussing the manuscript is more of a brainstorming activity than an exercise of passing information back and forth.5. Both editor and writer would improve their own writing as a result of the writer-editor relationshipIn my best writer-editor relationships, the process of working so closely with another writer results in a transformation in my own writing in future manuscripts as well as the one at hand, regardless of which role I’m taking. This is what happens when you spend a large amount of time working on someone else’s writing, which can be a bit of an exercise in being in another person’s head. If you find someone you can work with on this level, hang on to that relationship, but also keep looking for others. Multiple relationships like this can open up all sorts of possibilities for experimenting with new styles and approaches. There are so many different ways a writer’s work can transform over the years of a career, and I think editing relationships have everything to do with this.This is what I think women want from an editor. I would love for this piece to start some discussion. Is this the way you imagine an ideal writer-editor relationship working, either for men or women? Or is there another way that works best for you? Leave me a comment in the box below, and I'll do my best to answer.

What Black Hollywood Says About the Oscars

What Black Hollywood Says About the Oscars The Academy Awards is one of the biggest nights of the year in Hollywood, but something is often lacking: diversity. The nominees are often dominated by white actors and directors and this did not go unnoticed in minority communities. In 2016, many African Americans chose to boycott the ceremony and, because of that, the Academy has made vowed to make changes. What spurred this movement and what did black actors have to say about it? More importantly, have there been any modifications to the voting process since then? The Oscars Boycott Actress Jada Pinkett Smith called for a boycott of the 2016 Oscars on January 16 because each of the 20 nominations in the acting categories went to white actors. It marked the second year in a row that no people of color received Oscar acting nods, and the hashtag #OscarsSoWhite trended on Twitter. Supporters of actors like Idris Elba and Michael B. Jordan felt particularly slighted that these men weren’t honored for their performances in â€Å"Beasts of No Nation† and â€Å"Creed,† respectively. Film fans also argued that directors of both films- men of color- deserved nods. The former film’s director, Cary Fukunaga, is half-Japanese, while the latter film’s director, Ryan Coogler, is African American. As she called for an Oscars boycott, Pinkett Smith said, â€Å"At the Oscars†¦people of color are always welcomed to give out awards†¦even entertain.  But we are rarely recognized for our artistic accomplishments. Should people of color refrain from participating altogether?† She wasn’t the only African American actor to feel this way. Other entertainers, including her husband, Will Smith, joined her in the boycott. Some also pointed out that the film industry generally needs a diversity overhaul. Here’s what black Hollywood had to say about the Oscars’ race problem. The Oscars Aren’t the Problem Viola Davis has never been one to hold back when discussing social issues such as race, class,  and gender. She spoke about the lack of opportunities for actors of color when she made history in 2015 by becoming the first African American to win an Emmy for best actress in a drama. Asked about the lack of diversity among the 2016 Oscar nominees, Davis said the issue went beyond the Academy Awards. â€Å"The problem is not with the Oscars, the problem is with the Hollywood movie-making system,† Davis said. â€Å"How many black films are being produced every year? How are they being distributed? The films that are being made- are the big-time producers thinking outside of the box in terms of how to cast the role? Can you cast a black woman in that role? Can you cast a black man in that role? †¦You can change the Academy, but if there are no black films being produced, what is there to vote for?† Boycott Films That Don’t Represent You Much like Davis, Whoopi Goldberg blamed the all-white 2016 Oscar nominees in acting on the film industry rather than the Academy. â€Å"The issue is not the Academy,† remarked Goldberg on ABC’s â€Å"The View,† which she co-hosts. â€Å"Even if you fill the Academy with black and Latino and Asian members, if there’s no one on the screen to vote for, you’re not going to get the outcome that you want.† Goldberg, who won an Oscar in 1991, said that for actors of color to land more prominent roles in films, directors and producers must be diversity-minded. They must recognize that films with no cast members of color miss the mark. â€Å"You wanna boycott something?† she asked viewers. â€Å"Don’t go see the movies that don’t have your representation. That’s the boycott you want.† Not About Me Will Smith acknowledged that the fact he didn’t earn a nomination for his role in â€Å"Concussion† might have contributed to his wife’s decision to boycott the Oscars. But the twice-nominated actor insisted that this was far from the only reason Pinkett Smith chose to boycott. â€Å"Had I been nominated and no other people of color were, she would have made the video anyway,† Smith told ABC News. â€Å"We’d still be here having this conversation. This is so deeply not about me. This is about children that are going to sit down and they’re going to watch this show and they’re not going to see themselves represented.† Smith said that it feels like the Oscars are heading in â€Å"the wrong direction,† as the Academy is overwhelmingly white and male and, thus, doesn’t reflect the country. â€Å"We make movies, it’s not that serious, except that it plants seeds for dreams,† Smith said. â€Å"There’s a disharmony that is brewing in our country and in our industry that I want no part to that. †¦Ã¢â‚¬â€¹Ã¢â‚¬â€¹ Listen, we need a seat in the room; we don’t have a seat in the room, and that’s what is most important.† Its also interesting to note that Smith has received two Oscar nominations in his career. One was for Ali (2001) and the other for The Pursuit of Happyness (2006). Will Smith has never won an Oscar. Academy Not the Real Battle Filmmaker and actor Spike Lee announced on Instagram that he would sit out the Oscars, despite winning an honorary Oscar in 2015. â€Å"How is it possible for the second consecutive year all 20 contenders under the actor category are white? And let’s not even get into the other branches. Forty white actors and no flava [sic] at all. We can’t act?! WTF!!† Lee then cited the words of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.: â€Å"There comes a time when one must take a position that is neither safe, nor politic, nor popular, but he must take it because conscience tells him it’s right.† But like Davis and Goldberg, Lee said that the Oscars weren’t the source of the real battle. That battle is â€Å"in the executive office of the Hollywood studios and TV and cable networks,† he said. â€Å"This is where the gatekeepers decide what gets made and what gets jettisoned to ‘turnaround’ or scrap heap. People, the truth is we ain’t in those rooms and until minorities are, the Oscar nominees will remain lily white.† A Simple Comparison Chris Rock, the host of the 2016 Oscars, gave a succinct but telling response about the diversity controversy. After the nominations were released, Rock took to Twitter to say, â€Å"The #Oscars. The White BET Awards.† The After Effects Following the backlash in 2016, the Academy did make changes and the 2017 Oscar nominees did include people of color. They have taken steps to add diversity to their Board of Governors and vowed to include more women and minorities among its voting members 2020. Moonlight, with its African American cast took home  the honor of best picture in 2017 and actor Mahershala Ali won best supporting actor. He was also the first Muslim actor to ever win an Oscar. Viola Davis took best supporting actress for her role in Fences and Troy Maxson was nominated in the lead role for the same movie. For the 2018 Oscars, the biggest news was that Jordan Peele received a best director nomination for Get Out. He is only the fifth African-American in Academy history to receive this honor. Overall, it seems that the Academy heard the passionate voices and has made steps toward progress. Whether or not we will see another #OscarsSoWhite trend, only time will tell. There is also a conversation about expanding the diversity beyond African Americans and hopes that more Latinos, Muslims, and actors of other minorities can be well-represented as well. As the stars have noted, Hollywood needs to change as well. The 2018 release of Black Panther and its predominantly African American cast, was quite the buzz. Many people have said that its more than a movie, its a movement.

Business Strategy of Smith Radiators Inc Case Study

Business Strategy of Smith Radiators Inc - Case Study Example A review of the current HR policies of Smith Radiators revealed that these do not support the current business strategy of a reactor. After identifying the strengths and weaknesses, the organization should address these and eventually assume the business strategy of a defender. There are various weaknesses noted in the current HR policies that ultimately stem for the centralized decision-making process and the lack of formal training and development programs. The recommended HR approach that the organization should take should focus on reviewing their policies on recruitment, selection, maintenance (particularly training and development programs), and other HR policies. Specifically, a closer look into decentralized decision-making to involve the management team and other crucial employees would be expounded; (2) a review of the contract and agreement with the Union in terms of benefits, compensation, and security concerns of employees should be delved into; (3) a review of current j ob descriptions are required; and (4) a closer coordination with other government agencies that affect work conditions such as the Department of Labor, the US EEOC, and the OSHA, must be forged to fit the defender strategy.  Using Miles and Snow typology of organizational strategies, it is eminent that Smith Radiators, Inc. is applying the reactor business strategy in view of addressing the issues presented from the Automobiles of America, Inc. (AAI) letter. AAI proposed two relevant actions that need to be addressed to enable Smith Radiators to continue supplying radiators to them: (1) requirement for Smith Radiators to be a fully certified AAI supplier within 20 months from the receipt of the letter; and (2) the application of Just-in-Time (JIT) delivery of radiators within three months, or by July 15, 1991. As a reactor, the organization sees that a major change would be required but their ability to change is not quick enough due to the following reasons: (1) it would require an evaluation of the current policies and operating functions that would be affected from the proposed changes and the time frame needed within which they could comply; and (2) it would have to design appropriate strategies that should be adopted to achieve the defined goal. Currently, the Human Resources (HR) department implements policies that do not support the business strategy as a reactor. The following policies are currently enforced: Recruitment Policies: (1) use of internal sources through referrals of current employees in recruitment; (2) giving a $500 monetary incentive to employees for referring new recruits who would stay beyond two years.

Strategy choice and change Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Strategy choice and change - Essay Example Changing the approach to organisational operations is therefore expected to have a direct impact on the organisational culture. In this paper therefore, the change contexts at TED are analysed in relation to the culture of the organisation. As the change has already taken place, the appropriateness of the change process in relation to known change models will also be analysed. Three major models are used in doing this, including Kaleidoscope model, Johnson cultural web, and Kotter’s 8-step change model. Based on the Kaleidoscope model given about, there are some aspects of change context that can be identified as enablers. These include power, readiness, preservation and capacity. The reason these are said to be enablers is because they have the potential of fostering the change process that was intended to happen. For example in terms of power, the fact that power was vested in the CEO to carry out desirable changes whilst maintaining organisational processes meant that issues of resistance to change was going to be minimal (Balogun & Hailey, 2009). Again, as noted by Christensen and LÃ ¦rgreid (2002) readiness to change on the part of employees is a major determinant of success with change. Meanwhile, given the background to TED’s performance, before the coming of the new CEO, all employees appreciated the need for there to be change, which informed their readiness. In terms of preservation, even though the factors identified were downgrading, their mere existence gave th e justification for why there needed to be change and so are considered as enablers. This is because Carnall (2013) argued that whenever negative contexts are identified, they serve as catalysts for speeding up the change process because no leader wants to continue working with such negative contexts in place. Lastly, the capacity at both individual and organisational levels