Stages of Mnc Essay Example

Stages of Mnc Paper 1. The modern organizations have two main approaches toward internationalization. Either the first born global where these organizations are international from their inception or the organization is rapidly internationalized due to demand for the unique product/service. The second is the stage approach to internationalization this focuses on stages that the organization moves through to reach multinational enterprise MNE status. The movements through stages are influenced by â€Å"strain from growth and geographical distance, decision that coordination and business units need more management and host-government restrictions related to ownership and equity. † (Dowling, Festing, Engle, 2009) The stage approach begins with Export stage where increasing totals of exporting products/services creates the need to establish a presence in the international location. The Human Resources function becomes unclear, due to (marketing /developing export departments) manages the development of this international exporting arms staffing, and international intermediaries. The domestic headquarters â€Å"owns† the process, and continues exporting while building its market presence to enhance relationships and market experience in the new location’s business environment. Sales Subsidiary stage is the result of established strategic relationships in the international location the HR function of training and development prepares expatriates to manage the developing branches in the international locations. HR function is also actively staffing international locations in this stage. We will write a custom essay sample on Stages of Mnc specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Stages of Mnc specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Stages of Mnc specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer The Foreign production stage is where production is taking place in the new branches, which resemble the domestic location. The domestic HR function is staffing, however there are international branches developing their individual HR departments. The HRM in the international branches start to implement policy and procedures, which are appropriate for their locations. The staffing managed by both domestic and international HR includes a greater number of home country nationals. The organization is now considered an MNE and facilitates internationalization challenges by changing to a network organizational structure. 2. Human Resource challenges in the network firm are: a. The HRM function for developing transnational management insuring enough managers who can perform across the different international locations. b. HRM must directly meet the challenge to insure effective policies i. e. compensation and performance management, this includes adherence to individual locations taxation laws and government requirements. Maintain equity in the MNE compensation policies including rewards and incentives. c. Implement existing structure of control. The stress on formal communication channels as distance from location to location is increasing and coordination and communication throughout the MNE is less effective. HRM uses international conferences in key subsidiary locations as a way to build cross-border teams made up of staff from several different subsidiaries. This creates a network of functional teams, and promotes cross border relationship building throughout the MNE. The use of this informal control provides another communication channel. 3. MNEs from China and India differ from Japanese, European, and US in their process of internationalization due to the history of â€Å"network/family control â€Å"of business in China. This will make it difficult to maintain control once the organization moves move beyond the region, therefore internationalization will begin with export branches established in neighboring countries. Emerging market MNEs for China and India have been found to be more often family-owned. Family ties and parental networks are important as determinant of international activity† The other differences would be government â€Å" (Lou Tung, 2007) the role of the home country government is very important in determining firm strategy, for regulating outward FDI from emerging markets. Government policies prohibited outward FDI until recently. † (Lou Tung, 2007)

Jonathan Swift Essay Example

Jonathan Swift Essay Example Jonathan Swift Paper Jonathan Swift Paper Essay Topic: Jonathan Swift Poems Jonathan Swifts Story Satire Is a sort of glass, wherein beholders do generally discover everybodys face but their own. What Swift Is trying to convey through this quote is that when people are being satirical and expressing their comments of society, they tend to see all the flaws so clearly, Like a glass. Yet, when people do this they dont pay attention to what they are doing. Jonathan Swift is one of the worlds best satirist and poet, born in Dublin, Ireland to Abigail Erick Swift and Jonathan Swift. He suffered a lot as a child, from not being able to have a father to getting kidnapped for many years by a family ruse, and even being sent away to college at the age of fourteen. Since Jonathan Swift was a person born and raised in the 1600-sasss, he lived in a period of exploration and great political competition, which influenced his works of literature to include satire and much symbolism to express his thoughts and feelings toward political figures while making it humorous. During the time period that Jonathan Swift lived, there were many historical events that influenced his writings, such as when King James II of England, a Catholic, started a rebellion that caused Swift to eve back to England and by 1 710 Swift has become associated with the ruling Tory party. He shifted his allegiance from the Walshs Addison and Steele to a new group that included Alexander Pope John Gay, and John Arbitration (Hager 5). This influenced his writing by giving him an idea to write Guilders Travels, a book about the different events that occurred in Europe. Also during this time, there were many explorations and exposure to other parts of the world. This had a major affect on his writing because in one his novels, Guilders Travels, he wrote about the many explorations that the protagonist, Lemur Guiltier, went on while discovering many different islands with mystical creatures. Furthermore, at this time period, many people were more Interested with mystical and fantasy novels, which is another reason why Swift decided to write, Guilders Travels. The events that occurred during his lifetime was not the only aspect that contributed to his writing, but people around him Influenced him In a drastic way too. Swift has experienced and done many things throughout his life that has affected his writings in various ways such as during the mime when he lived in England, his bestrides, Temple, passed away and to let go of stress, he began to write. It is said that, under Temples influence, [Swift started to] write. (The Biography. Com 5) Temple always wanted the best for Swift, so Swift began to write. His first major work being a Tale of a Tub (Hager 3) was written and it was the beginning of his whole writing career. Following Temples death he moved back to Ireland and went back to being a priest for the next ten years. While he was preaching and working at the church, Swift was inspired to write his first lattice pamphlet. Additionally, when he was working along side with Temple, Swift met the most important woman in his life, Esther Johnson (Stella) (Hager 1). She was a girl that he loved so dearly and she Influenced him to write her letters. These letters were later known as, The Journals to Stella. As time went on, Swift moved back to England to work for the government under the Tory party. He worked as an editor government was so terribly set up (The Biography. Com). As their editor, he had to write many articles that would talk awfully about the other political party, the Whish. Swift chose to write about thing that he experienced and how he felt towards the government. All of these social influences led to his professional career. In his professional career, Swift wrote many novels, pamphlets, and poems to express his feelings towards the problems he sees around him in England. His novel, Guilders Travel, is one of the best known books that Swift has written. In this book, he was able to talk about all the complications that he experienced while living in England (Swift). Swift also wrote many pamphlets such as, A Discourse on the Contests and Dissensions in Athens and Rome, which was his first political pamphlet. Additionally, Swift wrote many other books like, A Tale of a Tub, The Battle of the Books, and Ancients vs Moderns, but he sent them in anonymously because he did not want anyone to really know his business. All of these books are still very well known today and these writings were influenced by his life and the people around him. Swift is one of the most well known satirist in the literary world. In his most well known book, Guilders Travels, he uses variations of literary devices to help explain to his audience how it was like to live in the time he did, which was around the 1700. Throughout his book, Swift uses satire and symbolism to assist the audience in conveying what it was like in England during this time period. In this novel he wrote about different type of creatures, such as giants and small people to symbolize all the intellectual abstraction and the delusions of human perfection (Miller). Also, in the novel he writes about the Kingdom of Lilliputian and how their government is separated into two parties, Treatments and Slackens, like how the government in England was separated into two also. Swift uses satire to represent the small arguments of he two English parties in the time he lived (Swift 44). Considering of his writing style, it is the reason why he is so well known and loved, because of the way he used satire is way different from the way others use it and it makes him unique. Over all, Jonathan Swift impacted the literary world in a gigantic way through the use of satire in most of his books. It is evident that Swift had many obstacles that he faced and many different things that influenced him to write the way he does. That is how he is now going to always be remembered as one of most famous satirist in the literary world.

5 Reasons for Leaving a Job and How to Deal Once You Go

5 Reasons for Leaving a Job and How to Deal Once You Go Gone are the days when you’d start your career as an eager young entry-level employee at a company, then flash-forward to your retirement party at the same company, after rising through the ranks (and the various hairstyle and wardrobe changes). It used to be fairly common to commit to a company for the duration of your career, leaving a job only for life changes or unexpected events (getting fired or laid off). These days, the average worker holds ten different jobs before turning 40 years old. Ten! That’s a lot of jobs, and a lot of transition. Now, you’re not obligated to have that many different jobs, and if you are willing and able to move from intern to manager to CEO at Widget Corp, go for it! For most of us, it’s not really an option. Economic circumstances change, or there’s not enough room for growth. You meet that awesome someone, who just happens to be moving across the country for his or her own job, and wants you to come with.Everyoneà ¢â‚¬â„¢s career path is a little different (and thank goodness for that- we can’t all be web designers or interpretive dance choreographers), so the reasons for leaving are as varied as we are. Let’s look at some of the most common, valid reasons for leaving your current job, and how to make the transition from one to the next.1.   You hate your job/boss/company2.  You want better work-life balance3.  You never planned to be in  it  forever4. You don’t make enough money5.  The decision was made for you1. Leaving a job because you hate your job/boss/company.Sometimes relationships just don’t work out. It’s not necessarily anyone’s fault (okay, we all secretly know it’s their fault), but sometimes a job just isn’t a good fit for you. If you find that your work days are more defined by conflict and unhappiness than by productivity, then yeah, it’s time to start putting out feelers for a new opportunity.How to de al with this: Your next employer wants to know why you left, and also that you’re a reliable bet. If you go into an interview talking smack about your previous place of employment, the interviewer will think, â€Å"hmm, is that how he’s going to talk about us in a year?† So when you’re asked why you left, emphasize that it wasn’t a good fit. Be specific, but gracious:â€Å"I enjoyed many aspects of my job, and I learned a lot of great leadership skills there, but ultimately I see myself as a manager, and there just wasn’t enough room for growth there.†2.Leaving a job because  you want better work-life balance.If you’re working 80 hours a week, but want to carve out more time for your family and fly-fishing hobby, it may be time to start looking elsewhere. If you talk to your boss and there aren’t ways to make your position flexible enough for your priorities (work-from-home arrangements, flex time off, different work h ours), then you’re just going to get more and more frustrated in your current role.How to deal with this: This can be a tricky area in a job interview- potential employers aren’t allowed to ask you about family status, health problems, or many personal issues. If you’re looking for a more flexible job because you and your partner want to have a baby soon, you don’t have to be explicit about the reasons why you might not want to be on call days, nights, and weekends anymore. You can just leave it as a general personal decision:â€Å"I loved my job as the Parks Director, but in the next phase of my career I want to find a position where I can grow while also having a more healthy work-life balance. This company appeals to me because I know you’re committed to helping employees find that balance.†3. Leaving a job because you never planned to be in  it  forever.You take a job because you’re looking for something in the interim, or to pay the bills while you finish school to pursue your dream career as a circus clown. Whatever the case may be, it’s possible you never intended this job to be your career-defining role. If that’s the case, there’s an expiration date looming, whether you’ve set a specific timeline or not. If that end date is approaching, then it’s time to get out gracefully.How to deal with this: You don’t want to look like someone who bolts when things get tough, or when a shiny new opportunity comes along. Make sure you emphasize your long-term goals, without saying (in so many words) that you weren’t interested in the job long-term:â€Å"I saw my last position as a great growth area, where I could improve my skills and get experience, but now it’s time to move on to my longer term goals, like [X].†4. Leaving a job because you don’t make enough money.This is a perennial favorite among people who leave jobs for other opportunities . Money is one of the most basic facts of our lives, and if you aren’t making enough at a certain level, or are clearly being paid beneath what you’re worth, it’s not likely that this is an issue that will just resolve itself. If you’ve already done your research to figure out what your job is worth for someone at your skill level and level of experience, have tried to parlay that into a raise, and have been underwhelmed by your company’s response- it’s valid to use that as your excuse for leaving.How to deal with this: Money issues require every bit of diplomacy at your disposal. To your soon-to-be-former boss/company, it’s important not to be bratty about the reason you’re leaving. If you’ve been asked in an interview for a new job about why you left your last one, bringing up money can be a minefield. It could put you at a disadvantage for later negotiations, or could price you right out of the job offer if they think you’re expecting six figures and a Ferrari when they’re offering five figures and a discounted Zipcar membership. Be firm about your commitment to moving up in the world, but non-specific about the financial aspect of it:â€Å"At this point in my career, I’m looking for the kind of growth that Former Co. couldn’t offer in my previous role.† Or if you’re talking to Former Co., be honest: â€Å"Based on my role in the company and my achievements here, I was hoping my compensation could be adjusted accordingly. Since we’ve discussed this and those resources aren’t available, it’s time for me to pursue other opportunities. I really appreciate my time here, but it’s time for me to move on.†5. Leaving a job because the decision was made for you.Being ushered out the door is a pretty ironclad reason to leave your job. It might not even have gotten to that point yet, but you can read the writing on the wall. If yo u’re being elbowed out of your job for whatever reason, the spin you put on it is especially important as you look for your next job.How to deal with this: If you’re dreading the â€Å"why did you leave?† question in an upcoming job interview, start working the spin. Don’t lie, especially if you were fired for a reason that will come up in a background check, or if the interviewer happens to be college roommates with your old boss (it’s a small world after all, trust me on this). Frame it as a learning experience, and emphasize that you’ve taken what you could from the situation, and are actively addressing it as part of your future:â€Å"My last position wasn’t a good fit, and I learned hard lessons about how to approach situations. I made some mistakes in judgment that I strive to overcome every day, and I know that my experience and skills are the stronger for my ongoing efforts.†Whatever your reason is for leaving your curr ent job, it’s so important to make sure that your exit is a classy one. Always keep the tone gracious, no matter how ticked off you may be, or how many grudges you’re holding about your workload, your treatment, your boss, the terrible coffee in the break room. Be as honest as you can about your reasons for leaving (without making yourself look bad, or letting a snide or angry tone get the best of you), because you likely have genuine feedback that the company can use in recruiting your replacement, or making personnel decisions in the future.Plus, as I mentioned, most industries are very small worlds- you never know who might hear about your exit, or who might know someone who knows someone who used to work with you. It’s in your best interest to make sure that your reasons for leaving are clear, backed up with specific information, and let go as water under the bridge as you get ready for your new job offer, or your job search. No bridge is more useful when it ’s burned, so it’s important for your reputation (and your own sanity) to keep everything clear and professional.

Amazon Company Background Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Amazon Company Background - Research Paper Example For effective management f its network relations, the company has, in addition to its Seattle headquarters, an additional office at Coffeyville, state of Kansas. Additionally, Amazon.com has global websites in the US, UK, France, Germany, Canada and Japan with a view of serving the domestic consumers of its products and service. With more than eight thousand full time employees, the company is able to have effective communication with its customers within the online or network relationships. In this regard, the placing of orders, acquisition of relevant information, following the progress of the order and online sale of products and services are transactions which are effected during the network relationships. The company values its employees as the most important resource in effective management of network relationships between the company and its employees. The management of network relationships includes effective and efficient communication between the Amazon sellers and the customers. Customers are provided with an interface of creating user accounts through which their communication with the sellers will be facilitated. Through these accounts, the users are able to view the company’s variety of products and make necessary inquiries. This is then followed by making or orders by the customers. The orders are consequently processed by the company’s employees within the various subsidiaries and retail shops. The company’s policy provides for professionalism and effectiveness in communication. which includes giving the customers appropriate feedback on the progress of the orders. Additionally, the procedure of communication within the company is in support of enhanced relationship between the sellers and the customers. This is aimed at ensuring effectiveness and quality in the provision of services and products to th e company’s market. Call Centers for Facilitating Relationships The company has call centers Kennewick, Grand Forks and Huntington within the US. Additionally, Amazon.com Inc. has call centers in Cape Town, South Africa and Hyderabad, India. These call centers play the most significant role of enhancing network communications between the customers and the sellers of the company’s products (Ratnasingham 1). The activities in the call centers employ information and communication technology in addition to the utilization of telecommunication networks in order to efficiently meet the needs of consumers for information. More importantly, the consumers are enabled to inquire about the various details on the company’s products and thus achieve an enhanced shopping experience. In addition to the communication with the customers, the data centers play a role of coordinating the activities of the various

Assignment 1 Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 8

1 - Assignment Example This results from the absence of causes, conditions or other necessary determinations of choice or behaviour. The definition of this term is usually negative, not affirmative. Spontaneous people do not necessarily exercise free will. Their behaviour is often seen to be prompted by proximate causes. Often, free will is translated to mean â€Å"could have done otherwise.† Determinism is the philosophical view that all events, including mental events, have a cause. In other words, all states of affairs, both physical and mental, are conditioned by their causes and are describable by scientific law. In a deterministic universe, there are no free will, no miracles and no chance events. The classic view of determinism was expressed by Laplace. Given sufficient knowledge of every particle in the universe, he believed any future event or past could be exactly calculated. I subscribe to the doctrine of Free will. This is because in business, the school of thought is that there is always something a person can do to achieve a desired result. In determinism, we cannot have sufficient knowledge of every particle but acts in part as business ventures must be calculated using the available relevant information. D. Self Service- This consists of acts that are committed for the betterment of the society. A moral person who practises true self service is promoted by his peers as an individual who should be followed There is no distinction between the general and business attributes of a moral person. Thus no distinction should exist between them as they are both in tandem, complimenting each other .Moral leadership characteristics are developed over time and influenced by upbringing, life experience, immediate social norms and training. 3. A promise is a firm agreement to perform an act, refrain from acting or make a payment or deliver. To be legally binding as a contract, a promise must be exchanged for adequate

What Crime Has Been Comitted Essay Example for Free

What Crime Has Been Comitted Essay The purpose of this report is to sum up the court case of Rixon Vs Star City PTY LTD (2001 september). Mr Brian Rixon is the Appellant and Star City Pty Ltd (formerly Sydney Harbour Casino Pty Ltd) is the Respondent. Mr Rixon is suing Star City for battery, assult and unlawful arrest. What crime has beem commited? Include a defention of this crime. In this particulular case of Brian Rixon vs Star City PTY LTD, battery, assult and unlawful arrest were alegedely commited, these offences fall under tort law. A tort can be defined as a civil wrong. Battery can be defined as; direct intentional or neglective conduct that causes contact with the body of another without consent. While in criminal law this conduct is also known as assault, in civil actions a distinction is made between battery that invoves a threat of contact without assault. Brian Rixon had been made the subject of an exclusion order issued under the Casino Control Act (which meant that he could not return to the casino). However Mr Rixon did not abide to these terms and once again entered the casino. As a result of this an employee of the respondent approached Mr Rixon in the casino, placed his hand on Mr Rixon, spun him around informed him that; as an excluded person, he was required to follow him to an interview room. Mr Rixon was held in this room for approximately an hour and a half before police arrived; during which time he claimed he suffered stress and anxiety. Indentify the defenda nts and what plea they used. The defendants in this particular case are Star City PTY LTD. They had decided to plea not guilty and defended there employes decision to remove Mr Rixon from the casino as he was violating the casino control act. Outline the arguments they used in there case The defendants used the following arguments in there defence: Defence against assualt- Proof of assault requires proof of an intention to create in another person an apprehension of imminent harmful or offensive contact. If the assault lies in creating an apprehension of impending contact, proof of the assault does not require proof of an intention to follow it up or carry it through. However Mr Ross (Casino Inspector) placed his hand on Mr Rixons shoulder without using any degree of force and said Are you Brian Rixon? which leads to conclusion that Mr Ross had no intention of creating in Mr Rixon an apprehension of imminent harmful or offensive conduct Defence against battery- forms of conduct, long held to be acceptable, is touching a person for the purpose of engaging his attention, though of course using no greater degree of physical contact than is reasonably necessary in the circumstances for that purpose. Defence against false imprisonment/wrongfully accused-Any of the people in charge of the casino, the agent of the casino operator or the casino employee who knew that a person, the subject of an exclusion order, was in the casino premises must remove the person from the casino or cause the person to be removed from the casino. Or detain the subject until the authorities arrive to initiate protocol. Identify the Plaintiff The plaintiff In this particular c ase is Brian Rixon. Outline the arguments of the plaintiff. These arguments were used by the Plaintiff: Assault- The appellant Mr Rixon claimed that he was assaulted by the government inspector Ross. Mr Rixon claims that the inspector grabbed him by the shoulder and spun him around while he was playing poker. He said that it hurt his shoulder and neck. Battery- The appellant Mr Rixon claimed that the inspector had grabbed him by the shoulder and spun him around. This was not acceptable to him and he felt that it violated his security. Quote from her Honour The law cannot draw the line between different degrees of violence, and therefore totally prohibits the first and lowest stage of it; every mans person being sacred, and no other having a right to meddle with it, in any the slightest manner. †. False imprisonment/ wrongfully accused- The plaintiff claimed that he was wrongfully accused and did not deserve to be imprisoned. He also claimed that was in false imprisonment and that they had no right to keep him at the casino. In what court was the case heard? Was the case heard only by a judge or a judge and jury? Why? This particular case was held in district court infront of a judge- judicial officer: Balla ADCJ. This case was only presented in front of judge and not in front of a jury because it is not a criminal case it is a civil case. State the verdict and punishment handed down. Do you think this decision was fair why? / why not? The decision made by judge Balla was that the appeal would be dimmised with cost. The trial Judge rejected Mr Rixons case in battery on the basis that the touching lacked the requisite anger or hostile attitude to be considered as battery. Therefore her Honour dismissed the appeal. The trial Judge rejected the case in assault by finding that the actions of the defendants employee lacked `the requisite intention in relation to assault. Her honour rejected Mr Rixons account of being grabbed or spun round, her Honours finding that Mr Ross placed his hand on Mr Rixons shoulder without using any degree of force and said Are you Brian Rixon? This led her to conclude that Mr Ross had no intention of creating in Mr Rixon an apprehension of imminent harmful or offensive conduct. Therefore her Honour dismissed the appeal. The trial judge rejected the case in False imprisonment and wrongfully accused. The detention of Mr Rixon was made on reasonable grounds and that no more force was used than was proper in the circumstances. Her Honour said that Mr Rixons evidence established that he was informed of the reasons for the detention and that the police were notified immediately of the detention. Mr Rixon was not detained for any longer than was reasonable to enable a police officer to attend at the casino premises. Furthermore Mr Rixon was subject to an exclusion order. By entering the premise he violated the exclusion order and was detained while the police were notified. The staffs at Star City were just following protocol. Therefore her Honour dismissed the appeal. I believe that the verdict for this case was fair as Mr Rixon was out of line and did not need to sue on such an unworthy matter. The staffs at Star City Casino were simply doing their jobs as instructed. The judge did give the matter thoughtful revision and came to an accurate decision.

Common Pagan Rituals And Beliefs Essay examples -- essays research pap

  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Paganism is an ancient type of religion which has quite an inauspicious reputation today. There are many types of paganism, most date back thousands of years, which include Wicca, Witchcraft, Paganism, and a few other lesser known and practiced variations. Yet all of these religions are similar and share common beliefs. Wicca is the most common of these, as it also demonstrates the shared belief of doing good that is common to most forms of paganism. Another common belief, is to gather in small groups, called covens, to practice pagan rites and ceremonies with others. There are many ancient beliefs, archaic rituals, and forgotten traditions that are practiced by pagans. Many of these are also the origins of widely practiced traditions in the Christian-dominated world of today.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  A defining characteristic of many pagan religions, especially Wicca, is the worship and closeness to nature. Pagans treat animals kindly and respect all things, living or nonliving, as though they were a person (Roy N. p.). They also share the worship of their nature gods, which increases their respect for all that is around them (Roy N. p.). Pagans are very sensitive people that also have a high regard for personal privacy (Roy N. p.). With this belief of privacy, many pagans have more time to keep in touch with their inner selves and with the nature around them. Wicca, a more popular pagan religion, focuses on the Earth and uses pure white magic to help others (Roy N. p.). In fact, the Wiccan creed is, â€Å"An it harm none, do as thou will,† which agrees with the â€Å"good† philosophy (Beliefs N. p.). Altogether, pagans have a great deal of emphasis on the life and beauty of the nature that thrives around them and are radically different than the mythical rumors of witches that have been given to them over time.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Another defining characteristic of many pagans is the dedication to knowledge and self exploration (Roy N. p.). In fact it has been said that, â€Å"Witchcraft is the oldest, most irrepressible religion in the world because it stimulates the intellect, promotes a simple, practical way of life, and most importantly, is emotionally satisfying† (Art N. p.). There is a set of beliefs, called the Laws of Magic that help illustrate the beliefs supported by Wicca and other pagan religions. Many of these la... .... The Laws of Magic. Online. Necronami Net. Available HTTP:   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  http://www.necronami.com/d/paganism-celtic/magic.laws.txt, 30 Nov. 1996. General Beliefs. Online. Necronami Net. Available HTTP:   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  http://www.necronami.com/d/paganism-celtic/wicca.gen_beliefs.txt, 15 Dec. 1996. Hicks, J. Brad. Ceremony of Initiation. Online. Necronami Net. Available HTTP:   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  http://www.necronami.com/d/paganism-celtic/initiation.ritual.txt, 15 Dec. 1996. Hunter, Ryan. Handfasting Ceremony. Online. Necronami Net. Available HTTP:   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  http://www.necronami.com/d/paganism-celtic/handfasting1.ritual.txt, 15 Dec. 1996. Roy, R. Thirteen Questions. Online. Necromnami Net. Available HTTP:   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  http://www.necronami.com/d/paganism-celtic/13Questions.txt, 30 Nov. 1996. The Ancient Art. Online. Necronami Net. Available HTTP:   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  http://www.necronami.com/d/paganism-celtic/craft.intro.txt, 30 Nov. 1996. The Sabbats. Online, Teleplex Communications, Inc. Available HTTP:   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  http://www.teleplex.net/SCNPA/sabbat.html, 8 Dec. 1996.

Milk †Cheese Essay

Milk contains all the food, including protein, fat, sugar, and other nutrients, a young mammal requires for a long period of time. Milk comes from sheep, cows, and goats. Milk is good for us because we grow up healthy and have a strong body; we have sharp teeth and have energy. Everybody needs milk, for example: babies, toddlers, sick people, children, and elderly people. In various parts of the world, goats, reindeer, donkeys, yaks, water buffalo, and sheep are domesticated and milked. In most countries, however, dairy cows provide milk. Milk and milk products are drunk and eaten in many forms, including buttermilk, cheese, yoghurt, and butter. Milk can be reduced to powder, concentrated in a thick liquid, and used in cooking. Fresh milk sours quickly, but, when changed into forms such as cheeses, it can be kept for a long time. People consume milk in fresh, dried, and condensed forms. Fermented-milk products, such as buttermilk, sour cream, and yoghurt, are also available. Milk is used to make food products such as butter, cheese, and ice-cream. Under normal conditions, the milk of mammals is the only food necessary for the health and growth of that mammal’s young for certain period after birth. Cow’s milk can be substituted for human milk in feeding babies only if the proportions of water and sugar to other components are increased. Milk is composed largely of water; cow’s milk, for example, is approximately 87 percent water by volume. The main nutrients, food elements are: proteins, the principal proteins in milk are casein and albumin. They contain all the essential amino acid for building tissues, blood and hormone substances. Casein is found only in milk and gives milk its whiteness. Carbohydrates, the fat of the milk is called butterfat, or milk fat, and is the part of milk from which butter is made. It is an important source of energy and rich in vitamin A. Minerals, milk are one of the best natural sources of calcium and phosphorus. Its other minerals include iron, copper, sodium, potassium, magnesium, sulfur and iodine. Vitamins, milk contains all the known vitamins, but only four-riboflavin, vitamin B2, thiamine, vitamin B1, niacin and vitamin A in significant amounts. Milk is an excellent source of riboflavin; it contains only a little less than does an equal amount, by weight, of lean meat. Microorganisms that Disease-causing organisms present in the cow can be passed on to the milk. Contamination can occur when the milk is obtained, stored, or transported. Milk is pasteurized to kill and prevent growth of microorganisms. Milk products: raw milk is natural, fluid milk. Pasteurized milk is milk that has been heated to 63 degrees.

The Twilight Saga 5: Midnight Sun 20. Tracker

Each vampire strode out of the forest with a wild expression on their face while their brilliant bright red eyes glittered. The three of them came closer together once they saw how many of us there were. The female had long red curly hair and a catlike appearance. The two males were both tall and built. As they came closer to my family I could understand their chaotic thoughts – our family was large for our kind and civilized compared to most other nomads. I knew what these kind of vampires looked like already, so their torn clothes, disheveled hair and bare feet were not something that would take me off guard. All of their thoughts were thinking in sync with each other. How many vampires are there? They were all shocked as they made their way towards us. Our numbers were an unpleasant surprise to them. They drifted ever closer to us with extreme caution. Carlisle, Emmett and Jasper walked toward the approaching vampires to greet them, leaving only a short distance between us. I stationed myself securely in front of Bella. The visitors were cautiously looking around, mentally tabulating their chances of winning if a fight were to ensue. Once they began closing ranks with my family I began to listen carefully to their thoughts, making sure none of them sensed Bella for what she was ?C a human. Their eyes aren't red†¦ but†¦ How weird. The vampire named Laurent thought. As they descended upon us I had already figured out their names. Each one of them was thinking about the other in turn. The vampire named Victoria was looking anxiously between Laurent and the other male vampire, James. She didn't like the idea that James had to put Laurent in the front ?C to seem the leader of their coven but she was also grateful that he did because if there was an attack Laurent would be killed first and not her precious James. Her eyes darted in our direction. Why are they huddled around that one girl? Victoria thought. As she continued to look in our direction I concentrated on her thoughts alone. She was unknowingly absorbing the signs of the subtle differences between our kind and Bella's. Bella was the only human in a sea of vampires. The scent had not hit her yet. I began concentrating on the others thoughts also. James was a particularly vicious vampire. He was constantly gloating about how superior he was in his mind. James had caught sight of the many scars on Jaspers skin. Look at all of those battle scars. I'll keep my eye on him. He is the real danger of this coven. James was thinking strategy. I just don't understand why so many would gather together like this. Laurent thought. My family and the visitors finally met. â€Å"We thought we heard a game,† Laurent said lazily. â€Å"I'm Laurent, these are Victoria and James.† He gestured toward the others. Carlisle looked completely at ease as he spoke. â€Å"I'm Carlisle,† he began in a hollow voice. â€Å"This is my family, Emmett and Jasper, Rosalie, Esme and Alice, Edward and Bella.† He pointed to each grouping as he spoke. The new comers still hadn't caught scent of Bella but James was peering around me to her. He was noticing that her cheeks were tinged lightly with a pinkish glow and how her eyes were a dark chocolate brown. He stepped closer, unintentionally, to get a better look. â€Å"Do you have room for a few more players?† Laurent asked cordially. â€Å"Actually, we were just finishing up. But we'd certainly be interested another time. Are you planning to stay in the area for long?† Carlisle said in faux enthusiasm, though Laurent hadn't noticed. How long do they plan to be in the area? It's doubtful they would be able to stay here for long. Victoria looked at us incredulously. â€Å"We're headed north, in fact, but we were curious to see who was in the neighborhood. We haven't run into any company in a long time.† Laurent replied amicably. There is something about the dark haired girl. James continued to look at her. His eyes wondered to mine as he continued to think strategically. He doesn't seem like too much for a threat. He thought scathingly. I didn't let my expression change ?C the less he knew about me and my ability, the better. Jasper could feel the extreme hostility emitting from James so he used his gift to calm him down, along with sending waves of calm to the other vampires. James' thoughts returned to the conversation once he heard Carlisle's response. â€Å"No, this region is usually empty except for us and the occasional visitor, like yourselves.† Carlisle explained. Except for them? All three thought simultaneously. Jasper was truly talented. His continuous calm had changed the atmosphere into a more controllable situation. â€Å"What's your hunting range?† Laurent inquired. â€Å"The Olympic Range here, up and down the Coast Ranges on occasion. We keep a permanent residence nearby. There's another permanent settlement like ours up near Denali.† Carlisle explained. A permanent residence? They all thought together. They never leave? How is that possible? Laurent thought in astonishment before voicing his question. â€Å"Permanent? How do you manage that?† he asked, intrigued. This could be our opportunity to get Bella away from here. Be ready to move her away from them. Carlisle directed his thoughts to me. â€Å"Why don't you come back to our home with us and we can talk comfortably?† Carlisle invited. â€Å"It's a rather long story,† he explained. Home? Victoria and James thought together and then exchanged incredulous looks. â€Å"That sounds very interesting, and welcome.† Laurent smiled while choosing his words carefully. â€Å"We've been on the hunt all the way down from Ontario, and we haven't had the chance to clean up in a while.† I wonder what it is like to be so clean and dressed so nicely all the time, Laurent wondered. â€Å"Please don't take offense, but we'd appreciate it if you'd refrain from hunting in this immediate area. We have to stay inconspicuous, you understand.† Carlisle asked politely. â€Å"Of course,† Laurent nodded. â€Å"We certainly won't encroach on your territory. We just ate outside of Seattle, anyway,† he laughed while picturing his last prey and the kill. What? You idiot! Why would you agree to that? James roared in apparent displeasure. I could feel Bella shaking and I tried to hide her obvious human tendencies from the visitors. The constant deluge of thoughts had me struggling trying to keep up with everything. I focused on the threat and Carlisle. Get ready to get her out of here! Carlisle ordered me. â€Å"We'll show you the way if you'd like to run with us ?C Emmett and Alice, you can go with Edward and Bella to get the Jeep,† Carlisle said as casually as possible while inconspicuously directing Emmett and Alice of what to do. I could hear the wind from a mile away before it hit us. Alice looked at me frantically for a fraction of a second as she realized this, too, and her vision of us escaping unscathed shifted abruptly. I saw it flash and in that second I realized what was going to happen. The wind was only a second away and I was prepared. Suddenly the wind blew Bella's hair off her neck and sent her fragrance soaring towards the other vampires. James turned to face her as many thoughts went running through his head. I was preparing to protect Bella. Her scent had been punctuated by the moisture in the air, just like always. A howling rush of anxious thoughts came flowing out of my families minds as they realized the danger. Ummm†¦what a delicious scent, he thought hungrily. His nostrils flared to bring her scent deeper into his lungs, he crouched down, preparing to spring. His eyes narrowed while coming closer to Bella. I was a step ahead of him and so was my family because they had caught her scent strongly on the wind before he did. He was not going to lay a single finger on Bella. My protective side took over and a ferocious snarl ripped up my throat menacingly towards James. I met his gaze unflinchingly and he was suddenly very still like a dog who's hunting a rabbit, ready to attack. â€Å"What's this?† Laurent exclaimed in surprise. Why are they protecting her? She is just a human and an exceptionally frail one at that! This is going to be harder than my last hunt. James thought in a sinister way, determined to seize her at the first opportunity. His thoughts continued on a visual basis as I saw that he would pick victims who were harder to catch and track them down – delighting in the hunt. He continued to dwell on his satisfying memories of his obsession. The harder the kill, the more thrilling he found it. A sickening jolt ran through my stomach as I realized that if we didn't kill him now that he would continue to hunt Bella until she was dead. I shifted simultaneously with each movement he was planning to make. â€Å"She's with us,† Carlisle claimed quickly, almost in a threat. The scent didn't register with Laurent or Victoria for a few seconds longer. When it finally registered with them the scent was obviously not as strong to them as it was to James. â€Å"You brought a snack?† Laurent had a smile spread across his face as he took a step forward, ignoring everyone's protective stance. He was resisting the temptation much easier than James. A small horrified gasp exited Bella's lips. Another growl ripped up my throat, harsher than before. My teeth were showing and it sent a jolt of unease down Laurent's spine. He stepped back. â€Å"I said she's with us,† Carlisle looked tense and protective. â€Å"But she's human,† Laurent protested with a quizzical look on his face, slightly taken aback. Maybe this is how they stay inconspicuous†¦keeping a human as a pet? â€Å"Yes,† Emmett replied while stepping towards James. Laurent knew better than to become aggressive when there were so many vampires protecting Bella. He caught sight of Jasper who had his hands clenched so tightly that his scars shown pearly white. He looked quickly away and towards James while giving him a dark look. What the hell are you doing? Are you trying to get us killed? He thought. James slowly pulled out of his crouch but his thoughts and eyes were still on Bella. No matter what happened now, he was going to hunt her. Tonight ?C she will be mine, James thought excitedly. This should make for a much more interesting sport, he continued and it was obvious that our presence made the hunt considerably more interesting. I refused to move from my protective stance, remaining forcibly in his way. Jasper's waves of calm were working on the other two vampires but not on James. He seemed completely unaffected, like his body overrode it for the mere thought of a hunt as intriguing as this one would be. This one should be fun; I bet James is already making plans. Victoria thought while failing extravagantly to hide the excitement of the hunt on her face. â€Å"It appears we have a lot to learn about each other,† Laurent spoke smoothly, trying to placate the situation. â€Å"Indeed,† Carlisle's voice was relatively calm. I don't understand the fascination. â€Å"But we'd like to accept your invitation.† Laurent's eyes darted toward Bella and me and then quickly away. Good†¦Good, keep talking. This should help me out, James thought while his face lit up with a feverous fanatical glow. â€Å"And, of course, we will not harm the human girl. We won't hunt in your range, as I said.† Laurent added. James threw him a disgruntled look. Well that doesn't help me out at all, he thought angrily. Or†¦maybe this will bring them into a false sense of security and they will let their guard down, James continued to plan in his head. Carlisle studied Laurent's expression for several seconds. He seems to be handling this relatively well. I don't think inviting them over will hurt anything, Carlisle contemplated. â€Å"We'll show you the way. Jasper, Rosalie, Esme?† he called. All three of them moved forward blocking Bella from their view. Alice bounded up next to Bella while Emmett walked backwards to us, never letting James out of his sight, knowing that I could see everything he saw. I'm coming with you, Edward. I won't let anything happen to Bella, Emmett thought protectively. We need to leave now, Alice thought urgently. â€Å"Let's go, Bella.† I commanded. Bella didn't move; her eyes were wide in terror and shock. I grabbed her by the elbow and pulled her towards the jeep. Emmett and Alice stayed behind me, protecting both of us from any form of attack they might try to come at us with, all of us working as a seamless team. We don't have much time, Edward. James will be after Bella shortly. Carlisle won't be able to stall them for long. Alice looked upset. My impatience of her slow human pace was unbearable so by the time we reached the forest edge I threw Bella on my back as gentle as I could without slowing down and then I ran for it. Emmett and Alice were struggling to keep up with me; I was flying through the forest in a fury trying to get Bella away from the danger. I knew that this whole experience was jarring for Bella but the most important thing right now was for her to be safe. When we arrived next to the jeep I opened the door to the backseat and practically threw her in as the rest of us hurried into the Jeep. The key was protruding from the ignition already and I turned it quickly while the engine roared to life. â€Å"Strap her in,† I ordered Emmett who was already in the backseat. We have to go ?C now! Alice shouted from her head. She was already sitting in the passenger's seat looking extremely anxious. Her thoughts were unnecessary because I was already spinning the Jeep around to face the mountain road. Hurry, he's close. Alice's eyes were wide with terror for Bella. I was muttering ferociously while several profanities come through my lips, words that I would never use in front of a lady. Emmett and Alice were on full alert, constantly updating me in their thoughts at what was going on around us. I can't hear or see anything. Emmett informed me urgently. He lost Bella's scent once we took off in the Jeep, she explained to me, relaxing slightly. I watched Bella in the review mirror and through Emmett's eyes. She was bouncing up and down on the seat, her eyes wide. I suddenly wished Jasper had come along with us to keep her calm. Go south, they will split up but the prospects of them finding us are slim. Oh, she paused in thought, looks like they aren't planning to leave so quickly after everything after all. I wonder what they are going to do, Alice tried to look further in the future but there were too many decisions that hadn't been decided yet. I turned south on the main road. â€Å"Where are we going?† Bella finally spoke with a squeak. No one answered her. Just tell her, Alice commanded. I shook my head slightly. Emmett realized we were having one of our private conversations and understood what I was answering. â€Å"Dammit, Edward! Where are you taking me?† Bella shouted this time, looking horrified. I looked in the review mirror at her slightly crest fallen face and it broke my resolve. â€Å"We have to get you away from here ?C far away ?C now.† I said hastily. I pressed the accelerator down harder at my words while the Jeep's speed reached a hundred and five miles an hour. â€Å"Turn around! You have to take me home!† she vehemently exclaimed. This is exactly why I didn't want to tell her where we were going because I knew that she would demand what I couldn't give her. I looked in the review mirror again to see her face. She was fighting with the harness, tearing at the straps with tears welling up in her eyes. â€Å"Emmett,† I called. Emmett looked down at her while she was angrily grasping at the straps. Jeez, she is in a fury. Emmett thought. He brought his hands to her wrists and held them tightly in his grasp. Bella looked in the review mirror with pure anguish in her eyes. â€Å"No! Edward! No, you can't do this,† she cried out. When she begged and pleaded with me like this it broke my heart. I returned her gaze in the mirror. â€Å"I have to, Bella, now please be quiet.† I implored. She was stubborn, as always. â€Å"I won't! You have to take me back ?C Charlie will call the FBI! They'll be all over your family ?C Carlisle and Esme! They'll have to leave, to hide forever!† She shouted with a tragic expression displayed on her face. Of course Bella was being selfless. It was just in her nature to care about everyone else when her life was in danger. This was nothing to our family – the FBI ?C it's happened before with Jasper and Emmett. â€Å"Calm down, Bella.† I commanded. â€Å"We've been there before,† I was almost crying with exasperation. â€Å"Not over me, you don't! You're not ruining everything over me!† she began struggling under Emmett's hold. Edward, what do you want me to do? I don't want to hurt her but she is going to hurt herself with all of her struggling. Emmett thoughts became worried immediately. â€Å"Edward, pull over,† Alice directed. Bella has a good plan if you will just listen to her. I gave Alice a grave look while pressing the gas down even harder, showing her that I wasn't even going to slow down, let alone pull over. â€Å"Edward, let's just talk this through,† she continued. He's not following us; he actually has no idea where we went. Now pull over, she inclined her head toward the roads shoulder. â€Å"You don't understand,† I yelled in frustration. Alice had no idea that James was a tracker – that when he hunted his prey he never gave up and always conquered. I couldn't bring Bella back to Forks, he would find her and she would be in danger again. If she were to die, I would too. â€Å"He's a tracker, Alice, did you see that? He's a tracker!† I shouted. Crap! Emmett looked grim. â€Å"Pull over, Edward.† Do it now! We have to talk about this now! We are in this together and we all have to make the decisions together. That includes Bella! Alice raised her eyebrows like she was daring me to disagree with her. I looked down at the speedometer as the Jeep had reached one-twenty. â€Å"Do it, Edward,† Alice said to me in a bossy disapproving voice while glaring at me. She needed to understand, I had to explain to her but I didn't want to say this in front of Bella. I didn't want her to be more terrorized than she already was. I looked into the review mirror again as I saw Bella's encouraging eyes telling me to pull over. Her heart was hammering loudly in her chest and her scent was circling all of us in the Jeep, emphasizing her human frailness. I closed my eyes for a fraction of a second, hoping when I opened them again that this would all be over with. I couldn't stop, I must keep going! â€Å"Listen to me, Alice,† I gave her a reproachful look. â€Å"I saw his mind. Tracking is his passion, his obsession ?C and he wants her, Alice ?C her, specifically. He begins the hunt tonight.† â€Å"He doesn't know where ?C† Alice began but I cut her off. â€Å"How long do you think it will take him to cross her scent in town? His plan was already set before the words were out of Laurent's mouth.† I heard a faint gasp come from Bella's lips and I looked quickly in the review mirror to see her lips parted in pure horror. â€Å"Charlie! You can't leave him there! You can't leave him!† she shouted and began thrashing against Emmett and the harness with nothing but pure worry in her expression. â€Å"She's right,† Alice said while she looked to the future and then she looked at me in horror. I quickly dived into her mind, her vision was devastating. Bella! She will be so hurt and broken I don't know if we could fix her if Charlie is killed. We have to stop him ?C now! At the thought of what this could do to her I automatically slowed down. I didn't want her to die, but I could protect her from him†¦ but I couldn't protect her from the agony, the grief that she would have to suffer if her father was killed. It would be torture to see her in such pain or worse, if she finally took the blame off herself and realized it was entirely my fault and refused to let me comfort her. Alice could almost see my brain hard at work. â€Å"Let's just look at our options for a minute,† she said coaxingly, knowing that I was deep in thought about our options. The Jeep slowed as I took my foot off the accelerator slowly and the speedometer showed the Jeep slowing down to ninety miles an hour. In Alice's vision James would give Victoria the first kill ?C Charlie. Victoria was his mate and they were extremely vicious together, feeding off of each other's ruthlessness. She would display Charlie's dead body to try and coax us back ?C and it would work! I slammed the brakes while pulling into the shoulder. I felt horribly powerless. The car behind me screeched to a halt too and honked their horn. I saw Bella slam back into the seat and I was instantly nervous I had done something to hurt her but she looked unscathed. I turned to look at Alice. â€Å"There are no options,† I howled. To bring her back when that monster was hunting her ?C I just couldn't bare it if something were to happen. My brain was in limbo. â€Å"I'm not leaving Charlie!† Bella yelled louder than I had ever heard but I ignored her. â€Å"We have to take her back,† Emmett said quietly. â€Å"No,† I said with authority. â€Å"He's no match for us, Edward. He won't be able to touch her,† Emmett promised. â€Å"He'll wait,† I explained. We'll beat him at his own game then! â€Å"I can wait, too.† Emmett said while grinning widely. â€Å"You didn't see ?C you don't understand. Once he commits to a hunt, he's unshakeable. We'd have to kill him.† I shouted. And this is a problem because? â€Å"That's an option,† he replied unperturbed. I was becoming angrier because I knew I was going to lose this argument. â€Å"And the female. She's with him. If it turns into a fight, the leader will go with them, too.† Three against seven? Please! â€Å"There are enough of us.† â€Å"There's another option,† Alice replied quietly. She saw what Bella was planning in her head and the only way she saw this plan was if it was a possibility. This made me angrier than before. â€Å"There ?C is ?C no ?C other ?C option!† I shouted. I could see the shock on Bella and Emmett's face in the mirror. I turned to look at Alice. She has a good plan and you know it! Alice barked in her head. I continued to stare at her with deepest dislike. If she doesn't convince James that she is no longer in Forks than he will let Victoria kill Charlie. You can't let that happen. What would Carlisle say? I continued to glare at her and her logic. â€Å"Does anyone want to hear my plan?† Bella asked. â€Å"No,† I growled because I already knew her plan and disagreed with it. I've had enough of this! Alice glared at me so menacingly I almost thought she was going to burn holes through me. â€Å"Listen,† Bella pleaded desperately. â€Å"You take me back.† â€Å"No,† I cut in. I turned to look at her and now she was glaring at me. â€Å"You take me back,† she continued anyway. â€Å"I tell my dad I want to go home to Phoenix. I pack my bags. We wait till this tracker is watching, and then we run. He'll follow us and leave Charlie alone. Charlie won't call the FBI on your family. Then you can take me any damned place you want.† Wow! I like her style. She fights dirty! Emmett looked surprised. Just let her do this, Edward. Alice continued to glare at me. â€Å"It's not a bad idea, really.† Emmett allowed. â€Å"It might work ?C and we simply can't leave her father unprotected. You know that,† Alice replied in a I told you so tone. Everyone's eyes were on me. I took in a deep breath. â€Å"It's too dangerous ?C I don't want him within a hundred miles of her.† â€Å"Edward, he's not getting through us,† Emmett said confidently. I wish I were as confident as he was. I looked at Alice because she started flitting through the future again. Ah, yes, the future is getting clearer. I see†¦ â€Å"I don't see him attacking. He'll try to wait for us to leave her alone.† â€Å"It won't take long for him to realize that's not going to happen,† Emmett said. â€Å"I demand that you take me home.† Bella said firmly. My brain was swelling with the onslaught of information ?C the past events, the present and the future. Bringing my fingers to my temples and squeezing my eyes shut while trying to dispel all thoughts was useless but I tried anyway. â€Å"Please,† Bella whispered a cry. I knew I had to do what was best for Bella all around, not what was just best for me. I decided a compromise would be the best I could deal with. â€Å"You're leaving tonight, whether the tracker sees or not. You tell Charlie that you can't stand another minute in Forks. Tell him whatever story works. Pack the first things your hands touch, and then get in your truck. I don't care what he says to you. You have fifteen minutes. Do you hear me? Fifteen minutes from the time you cross the doorstep.† I conceded. The engine roared to life as I turned the key. I whipped the truck around while listening to everyone's thoughts. I knew this was going to happen, Alice thought smugly. Yes! We get to fight! Hell yes! Emmett rejoiced. â€Å"Emmett?† Bella said. I looked in the mirror and she was looking down at her hands. â€Å"Oh, sorry.† Emmett said while letting go of her wrists. This is the most exciting thing since mine and Jasper's trip to Africa. I hope Edward always keeps Bella around, everything is always so interesting! Emmett continued to think happy thoughts the whole way back to Forks. While everyone else was silent I was working plans in my head. â€Å"This is how it's going to happen,† I began to explain our strategy. â€Å"When we get to the house, if the tracker is not there, I will walk her to the door. Then she has fifteen minutes.† I gave Bella a dark look in the mirror to let her know I wasn't going to change my mind on this point. â€Å"Emmett, you take the outside of the house. Alice, you get the truck. I'll be inside as long as she is. After she's out, you two can take the Jeep home and tell Carlisle.† What? No fight! â€Å"No way,† Emmett interrupted. â€Å"I'm with you.† I sighed. â€Å"Think it through, Emmett. I don't know how long I'll be gone.† I explained. You aren't going to ruin this for me. â€Å"Until we know how far this is going to go, I'm with you,† Emmett said with authority. A growl almost escaped my lips. â€Å"If the tracker is there,† I frowned, â€Å"we keep driving.† No worries! â€Å"We're going to make it there before him,† Alice said with confidence. Oh no you don't, Edward, I'm staying with her. She thought when I planned to send her home.†What are we going to do with the Jeep?† Alice asked to provoke me. I gritted my teeth as I spoke. â€Å"You're driving it home.† No way! â€Å"No, I'm not!† she said coolly. Tonight I just couldn't help myself, a stream of profanities come through my lips, but low enough I was sure Bella couldn't hear them. Would she think of me as a gentleman after this? What a dumb thing to be thinking about in such a crucial moment, I thought to myself. â€Å"We can all fit in my truck,† Bella said quietly. I ignored her, she wasn't helping my cause. â€Å"I think you should let me go alone,† Bella said even more quietly, purposely provoking me. I clenched my teeth and breathed through them slowly. â€Å"Bella, please just do this my way, just this once.† â€Å"Listen, Charlie's not an imbecile,† she continued like she hadn't heard me. â€Å"If you're not in town tomorrow, he's going to get suspicious.† Why does she continually worry about me when she should be worried about herself? Beautiful, selfless, warm, trusting human†¦why do you do this to me? I roared internally. â€Å"That's irrelevant. We'll make sure he's safe, and that's all that matters.† I told her. I could see her rebuttal churning in her eyes before she spoke. â€Å"Then what about this tracker? He saw the way you acted tonight. He's going to think you're with me, wherever you are.† Where on earth did this creature come from? Emmett wondered. â€Å"Edward, listen to her,† he urged. â€Å"I think she's right,† Emmett said, positively delighted. Hum, she has a point. â€Å"Yes, she is,† Alice agreed. They already convinced me to come back to Forks and bring her back to the vampire who hunted her and now they expect me to stay behind! â€Å"I can't do that.† I barked. It was true, it was almost physically impossible for me to leave her now. â€Å"Emmett should stay, too. He definitely got an eyeful of Emmett.† She continued. You have got to be kidding me! She's turning on me now! â€Å"What?† Emmett's eyes narrowed in her direction. I'll placate him. Don't worry. â€Å"You'll get a better crack at him if you stay,† Alice suggested. The way they were planning was driving me insane. I had to put my foot down at some point. â€Å"You think I should let her go alone?† I said incredulously. Do you think I'm an idiot? â€Å"Of course not. Jasper and I will take her.† Duh. I felt like I was being beaten down. They were making sense and I knew it, but I just couldn't stand the pain if something was to happen to her and I wasn't there to protect her. â€Å"I can't do that.† I repeated. Bella spoke up, â€Å"Hang out here for a week ?C† I looked at her in the mirror and she could see my I don't think so expression and amended â€Å"- a few days. Let Charlie see you haven't kidnapped me, and lead this James on a wild-goose chase. Make sure he's completely off my trail. Then come and meet me. Take a roundabout route, of course, and then Jasper and Alice can go home.† It will work. Really. Alice thought to me. â€Å"Meet you where?† I conceded, curiosity getting the best of me. â€Å"Phoenix.† She said matter-of-factly. â€Å"No. He'll hear that's where you're going,† I said impatiently. Oh! Great plan†¦Alice thought seeing what Bella would say before she spoke again. â€Å"And you'll make it look like that's a ruse, obviously. He'll know that we'll know that he's listening. He'll never believe I'm actually going where I say I am going.† Interesting, always interesting. â€Å"She's diabolical,† Emmett began to chuckle and I ignored him. â€Å"And if that doesn't work?† I muttered. â€Å"There are several million people in Phoenix,† she informed me like that settled it. How did our conversation end up like this ?C here, in Forks embracing danger? We should be a hundred miles away by now! â€Å"It's not that hard to find a phone book,† I said grimly. â€Å"I won't go home,† she said happily. This is entertaining, really. Emmett thought with another chuckle in his head. I wanted to roll my eyes at her or shake some sense into her. Maybe she had lost her mind with the stress of the ordeal. â€Å"Oh?† I asked, utterly perplexed. â€Å"I'm quite old enough to get my own place,† she smiled at me in the mirror. It won't come to that. Don't worry. â€Å"Edward, we'll be with her,† Alice winked at me. Everyone had lost their minds. A sadistic vampire was hunting Bella and everyone had turned it into a big joke! â€Å"What are you going to do in Phoenix?† I rebuked. If I have time, shop. She thought but pretended that she didn't think that when she looked at me and replied, â€Å"Stay indoors.† I threw her a disgruntled look. With Jasper gone Edward and I can track this James down and kill him! â€Å"I kind of like it.† Emmett grinned stupidly. I glared at him. â€Å"Shut up, Emmett,† I commanded and I meant that for his thoughts too. It didn't stop him. â€Å"Look, if we try to take him down while she's still around, there's a much better chance that someone will get hurt ?C she'll get hurt, or you will, trying to protect her. Now, if we get him alone†¦Ã¢â‚¬  we can hack him up into little pieces and burn him! Emmett finished in his thoughts with another wide grin spreading across his face at the thought. I saw the bright orange streetlights as they grew brighter and larger as Forks loomed into view. We had finally arrived back in town and I was suddenly anxious that our plan won't work. The streets were empty and it felt like it was an ominous sign. Alice could see the grim expression on my face. She'll be fine, Edward, I've seen it. Alice thought calmy. â€Å"Bella,† I began while Alice and Emmett became alert immediately, gazing raptly out the windows. â€Å"If you let anything happen to yourself ?C anything at all ?C I'm holding you personally responsible. Do you understand that?† I said softly. I heard her loud gulp. â€Å"Yes,† she whispered. I looked at Alice who turned back to me. â€Å"Can Jasper handle this?† He cares for Bella, too. â€Å"Give him some credit, Edward. He's been doing very, very well, all things considered.† I raised an eyebrow. â€Å"Can you handle this?† I asked. I have fewer problems handling it then you do. I'd never hurt Bella. How dare you. Alice thought while a growl ripped up her throat and she pulled back her lips to show her gleaming teeth. Coming from Alice, the very tiny Alice, made me smile despite the events of this evening. â€Å"But keep your opinions to yourself,† I said harshly, knowing that the knowledge of her visions would be too much for Bella to handle. You mean the one where I think you should change her into a vampire so she can live with us forever? She thought with great smugness. I grimaced while pulling into Bella's driveway, looking out at the dark grounds surrounding her house. A lump formed in my throat at the thought of what had to happen next.

5 Causes of the Death of a Tree

5 Causes of the Death of a Tree Trees have an extraordinary ability to withstand many damaging agents that are ever-present in their environment. Trees have evolved over millions of years to ward off many stressors that bite and burn and starve and rot their roots, trunk, limbs, and leaves. It is amazing how a tree compartmentalizes itself to seal off dead wood and disease, defoliates to reduce the effect of drought and bleeds to extract harmful insects. We know that all trees do eventually die. There are many hundreds of seedlings and saplings that succumb for every mature tree left in the forest. All ages of trees eventually die to the same agents and only the most adaptive (and often lucky) individuals make it to old age. There are 5 factors to which a tree eventually succumbs: death from its environment, death from harmful insects and diseases, death from a catastrophic event, death from age-related collapse (starvation) and of course, death from harvest. In most cases, death is the result of several, if not all of these conditions taking place simultaneously. Lets take a look at each of these. Adverse Environment Ground and site conditions on which a tree lives ultimately determines the environmental stressors placed on that tree. If a drought-sensitive tree lives on a dry site during drought conditions, it may indeed die from lack of water. But that same tree can also be more susceptible to every other life-threatening factor placed upon it. For example, a disease that appears to be killing the tree may in effect be only a secondary issue to the initial environmental problem. Examples of adverse environments to trees are poorly draining soils, salty soils, droughty soils, air and ground pollution, extreme sun heating or cold spots and many, many others. It is particularly important to understand a tree species genetic tolerance to environmental conditions when planting. Many trees adapt very well to poor sites, but you need to understand which species fits where. Harmful Insects and Disease Virulent diseases like Dutch elm disease and the chestnut blight have caused sudden death to entire forests in North America. However, the most common diseases are more subtle in their work, killing many more trees in total than virulent types and cost forest and yard tree owners billions of dollars in forest product and specimen tree value. These common diseases include three bad ones: Armillaria root rot, oak wilt, and anthracnose. These pathogens invade the tree through leaves, roots and bark wounds and damage a trees vascular system if not prevented or treated. In natural forests, prevention is the only economic option available and is a significant part of a foresters silvicultural management plan. Harmful insects are opportunistic and often invade trees under stress from environmental problems or disease. They not only can directly cause tree death but will spread harmful disease fungi from a host tree to surrounding trees. Insects can attack a trees cambial layer by boring for food and nesting cavities, or they can defoliate a tree to the point of death. Bad insects include pine beetles, the gypsy moth, and emerald ash borers. Catastrophic Events A catastrophic event is always possible in a vast forest as well as in an urban setting. All property, including trees, are subject to being damaged or destroyed. In many cases, trees are not killed but are damaged to the point where their vigor is lost, and insects and disease take advantage of a trees loss of resistance. Significant tree losses can occur during a forest fire or when exposed to tornado-strength winds. Trees take a terrible hit when heavy ice is deposited on species sensitive to limb weight which results in breakage. Floods that do not recede quickly can cause root oxygen levels to diminish to the point where tree damage can occur. Extraordinary drought makes quick work of moisture-loving tree species and can harm all trees when extended over a long period. Old Age For trees who beat the odds and live through maturity to old age, there is a slow dying process that may take centuries to complete (in long-lived species). The modular tree compartmentalizes around damage and infected areas and continues to grow. Still, growth starts slowing after a tree matures, the ability of the plant to support itself diminishes and incurs the loss of adequate foliage for hydration and food. New immature branches, called epicormic sprouts, try to assist in maintaining an old trees vigor but are weak and are insufficient to sustain life for very long. A mature tree slowly collapses under its weight and crumbles to become the nutrients and topsoil for future trees. Timber Harvests Well remind you that trees do die to the ax. Trees via their wood have supported humankind and civilization for millennia and continue to be a necessary part of the human condition. The practice of forestry through professional foresters work continually with much success to provide a sustained flow of available wood volume and at the same time, ensure a surplus of trees. Some consider deforestation a growing global crisis.

Assessing The Corporate Structure Within Lvmh Business Essay

Assessing The Corporate Structure Within Lvmh Business Essay LVMH Moà «t Hennessy Louis Vuitton S.A. (Euronext: MC), usually shortened to LVMH, is a French holding company and the worlds largest luxury goods conglomerate. It is the parent of around 60 sub-companies that each manage a small number of prestigious brands These daughter companies are, to a large extent, run autonomously. The group was formed after mergers brought together champagne producer Moà «t et Chandon and Hennessy, a leading manufacturer of cognac. In 1987, they merged with fashion house Louis Vuitton to form the current group The group is controlled by the Christian Dior group, which owns 42.4% of shares and has over 58% of voting rights. Bernard Arnault, majority shareholder of Dior, is Chairman of both companies and CEO of LVMH. His successful integration of various famous aspiration brands into the group has inspired other luxury companies into doing the same. Thus Gucci (now part of the French conglomerate PPR) and Richemont have also created extended portfolios of luxury brands. The oldest of the LVMH brands is wine producer Chà ¢tea d’Yquem, which dates its origins back to 1593 Corporate structure LVMH is based in Paris, France. The company is listed on the Euronext Paris exchange and isa constituent of the CAC 40 index. As of 2008, the group revenues of à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬17.2 billion with a net income of à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬2.318 billion. The group currently employs 77,000 people. 30% of LVMH’s staff work in France. LVMH operates over 2,300 stores worldwide. Its current business plan aims to tightly control the brands it manages in order to maintain and heighten the perception of luxury relating to their products. For example, Louis Vuitton products are sold only through Louis Vuitton boutiques found in upmarket locations in wealthy cities or in concessions in other luxury goods shops (such as Harrods in London). This practice contrasts greatly with less exclusive brands which can be bought in shopping malls around the world (http:// en.wikipedia.org) Shareholders At the end of 2008, the only declared major shareholder in LVMH was Groupe Arnault, the family holding company of BernardArnault. The group’s control amounted to 47.42% of LVMH’s stock (with 42.42% held through Christian Dior S.A. and 5.00% held directly) and 63.40% of its voting rights (58.02% by Dior and 5.38% directly). A further 3.4% of shares were declared as treasury stock, with the remainder being free float .(http://en.wikipedia.org) DEPARTMENTS OF LVMH Wines & Spirits Fashion & Leather Goods Perfumes & Cosmetics Watches & Jewelry Selective retailing (Annual report LVMH-2008) MISION AND VALUES OF LVMH Be creative and innovate Aim for product excellence Bolster  the  image  of  our  brands  with  passionate  determination Act as entrepreneurs Strive to be the best in all we do (Annual Report LVMH-2008) Definitions of Human Resource Management Human recourse management is a strategic and coherent approach to the mana gement of organization’s most valued assets: the people working there who individually and collectively contribute to the achievement of its objectives. (Michael Armstrong, a Hand book of Human Resource Management 2003) The HRM models are The Matching model of HRM Harvard model of HRM Best practice model The contingency model

How Does Social Media Influence Companies Research Paper

How Does Social Media Influence Companies - Research Paper Example The emergence and ascendancy of social media have been awe-inspiring. Social media has become a very powerful communication tool and has revolutionized the way in which people interact and connect with each other. The use of social media is not restricted to individuals alone. Companies have recognized the importance of this media and have jumped onto the bandwagon. It is hard to find a company competing in the present day cut-throat environment and not deploying social media in its communication strategy. Social media is currently being used by companies to advertise their products, communicate internally, engage customers, listen to them and capitalize by generating a positive word-of-mouth.  The advertisement spends on social media are expected to continue their northward trend. Globally, companies are expected to spend $23.6 billion on social media advertising this year. By 2017, this expenditure is expected to soar to $35.98 billion. Estimates also reveal that by 2017, adverti sement on social media will represent 16 percent of the total advertisement expenditure incurred by companies on different types of digital media (Cohen, 2015). The data clearly establishes that social media has attracted a considerable amount of advertisement expenditure which was earlier incurred by companies on traditional media like television, print, and radio.   While there are various social networking sites, Facebook has emerged as the biggest beneficiary when it comes to advertising on social media.