The Dubai Investment Company Change Management

Introduction The topic of change management has solicited a tremendous amount of interest among managers and management scholars in recent times. This has led to an explosion of literature and research on the topic.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on The Dubai Investment Company Change Management specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Through change management, organizations are able to guide their employees in embracing changes that are both in the organization and in the organization’s external environment. It begins with the analysis of the existing state of the organization with the aim of determining the exact reason to effect change and the potential of the organization in effecting the change process. The need to understand change management is driven by the rapid changes in the working world due to new technologies and the subsequent realignment of the working environment. These have altered the traditiona l way in which organizations conduct their businesses and the relationships between the employees and their employers. The recruitment in an organization’s human resource goes beyond satisfying the company’s grand strategies and dishing out new job titles. Managers have always struggled with the question of how preferred organizational changes can be driven and effected by the human resource department in order to achieve the maximum intended effect. In this case, the human resource department will be in a position to come up with solid change proposals that the strategic managers can adopt Objectives This project’s aim is to explain how the recruitment in the HR function always drives change in organizations. This is in relation to the corporate truism ‘change or perish’ and demystify the notion that human resource changes are meant to cause disruptions in the organizational structure. It seeks to identify the best way to adopt change management, a s past research has shown that not all corporate changes are successful. Organizations are known to start change management programs which often do not mature hence the failure to achieve the intended goals through organizational change. In as much as this project is limited to the human resource function in change management, it takes a strategic management approach to the whole process and seeks to show the process of effecting real change, which will be reflected in the organization’s profit margins, human resource should not be considered a purely administrative function, but rather a strategic partner in the organization.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More This study will specifically concentrate on how the recruitment in the human resource department drives change in organizations and its effect on the existing human capital. It will identify the direct financial implications of these changes that are due to recruitment and also identify the human resource and strategic management models that are credited for the best successes in organizational change. The study will take approximately three months and it will be limited to the Dubai investment company. Relevant literature Tom Baum gives insight into the human resource management practices in the hospitality, tourism or leisure industries which are currently big business in Dubai (Baum 48). Baum (64) also gives an insight on the hospitality sectors that the Dubai Investment runs and the human resource practices in those investment ventures. Another relevant literature to this topic is the work of Sylvie and Witherspoon. In their contribution to this topic, Sylvie and Witherspoon provide insights into the motivations of change in organizations (Sylvie and Witherspoon 54-63). They also show how these changes are linked to the human resource department as they are adopted and incorporated into the strategic management of organizations. On the other hand, Wang (74 provides insights into how public and private organization use recruitment and performance appraisal by the human resource department to effect change in the organization. Wang also gives statistical data to support its suggestions on recruitment and change in organizations. Wang notes that there is a notable change in human resource approaches even in the Middle East where employment regulations have been considered static. Markaz (60) gives insight into the changing corporate information systems especially in companies that operate in the Arab world. He also explores how these changes in information systems are being adopted by organizations especially the Dubai investment company and the Abu Dhabi investment company. In the process of this analysis Markaz (60) also expounds on the process and the consequences of the adoption of various change initiatives. In their analysis of this topic, Matly and Dillon (112 ) gives statistical data on the Dubai economy in general. They also provide insight on the growth of the economy over time as a result of different Dubai investment organization’s adoption of changes in their human resource management.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on The Dubai Investment Company Change Management specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Research Design This research will employ a survey research design. This research design is relatively effective in obtaining information on the accounts of private authors and institutional data analysts. The selected design is specifically suitable since the population being researched on is relatively large and the phenomena under observation can be observed. The survey research design is often used due to its low cost especially where the information is easily accessible. Since the topic under investigation has greatly gained preeminence in the recent past, t here are numerous sources of information that can easily be utilized through the use of a survey design. Data collection The study will use secondary data where previous articles and statistical reports on the research question will be sampled and reviewed. The works of other authors will be reviewed in reference to the question of how the recruitment in the human resource function always drives change in corporate organizations and the effect of this change to available human capital. This mode of data collection is cheap since it is readily available and it is also effective since it widens the scope of the survey. Data Analysis The statistical data collected will be analyzed by the use of mean, mode and median. Hypothesis will be tested using a T-test. This will be done regardless of whether the collected data had been previously analysed. T-test is used when comparing statistical data models that have been fit to a data set in order to identify the model that best fits the popul ation from which the data was sampled. It also ensures the validity of results as originality and accuracy is maintained as previous biases are eliminated Potential problems Due the nature of secondary information on the Dubai investment company, some of the critical information may be edited and therefore, it may not be easily accessible. Also, some of the company’s records may not be available to the general public which may make the discussion of the research question not to be exhaustively analyzed. However, I will try as much as I can to exhaustively analyze any available internal information that could lead to further insight into the Dubai investment company’s strategic and human resource management strategies and their relation to organizational change.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Works Cited Baum, Tom. Human resource management for tourism, hospitality and leisure: an International perspective. Upper Saddle River: Cengage Learning EMEA. 2006. Print. Markaz al-ImÄ rÄ t lil-DirÄ sÄ t wa-al-Buá ¸ ¥Ã… «th al-IstirÄ tÄ «jÄ «yah. The information revolution and the Arab world: its impact on state and society. Dubai: I.B.Tauris. 1998. Print. Matly, Michael and Dillon, Laura. Dubai Strategy: Past, Present, Future. Boston: Harvard Business School. 2007. Print. Sylvie, George,and Witherspoon, Patricia. Time, change and the American newspaper. New York: Routledge. 2002. Print. Wang, XiaoHu. Performance analysis for public and nonprofit organizations. New York: Jones Bartlett Learning. 2010. Print. This report on The Dubai Investment Company Change Management was written and submitted by user Sincere Schmidt to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Definition And History Of Foster Care Social Work Essay Essays

Definition And History Of Foster Care Social Work Essay Essays Definition And History Of Foster Care Social Work Essay Essay Definition And History Of Foster Care Social Work Essay Essay New World Enclopedia ( 2012 ) defines surrogate attention as full-time replacement attention of kids outside their ain place by people other than their biological or adoptive parents or legal defenders. ] History of Foster attention Placement of kids in surrogate places is a construct which goes as far back as the Old Testament, which refers to caring for dependent kids as a responsibility under jurisprudence. Early Christian church records indicate orphaned kids lived with widows who were paid by the church. English Poor Laws in the 1500s allowed the arrangement of hapless kids into apprenticed service until they became grownups. This pattern was imported to the United States and was the beginning of puting kids into surrogate places. [ 1 ] The most important record of fosterage was in 1853, a kid was removed from a workhouse in Cheshire and placed in a surrogate household under the legal attention of the local government.At the beginning of the 1900s merely orphaned or abandoned kids under the age of 11 old ages were fostered, and they had to hold a demanding psychological profile good adjusted, obedient and physically normal. Until World War II, Foster attention was recognized as a charitable service. Two of import events that pushed the province to look at the Foster attention system in a different angle was the first mass emptying of 1000000s of kids and so the decease of a kid in a Foster attention in 1945. In 1969 research was carried out on the Foster attention system and it was found that surrogate households required developing on how to cover with the Foster kids and do them make full secure in the arrangement. ( Jeune Guishard-Pine, 2007 ) Foster attention as a planetary construct Foster attention is likely the most widely practiced signifier of replacement attention for kids global, depending on the demands of the kid, the civilization and the system in topographic point. There are many different sorts of fosterage and definitions of foster attention vary internationally. It can be short -term, a affair of yearss, or a child whole childhood. A reappraisal of surrogate attention in Twenty-two states found considerable diverseness in the manner of fosterage in both defined and practised. ( Hannah Johnson, 2005 ) .Kinship Foster attention, which is the most common signifier of furthering in African states is non defined as foster attention in all states. In Ireland for illustration merely kids placed with no relations are said to be fostered . In some states foster attention is seen merely as a impermanent agreement, whereas in others the norms is for long term and quasi adoptive arrangement. ( Colton A ; William,1995 ) Hannah Johnson ( 2005 ) stated that the procedure to be registered as surrogate parents in different states such as U.K, Australia, Uganda and South Africa is practically the same. In some states foster attention programme is managed either by the authorities or bureau, and each state has their basic standards that need to be fulfilled, such as being physically and mentally fit and healthy, holding a room for the kid, holding clip to pass with the kid.The procedure to be registered as surrogate households can take about six months. Persons who are willing to go surrogate households must do their applications to the bureau. A place survey is conducted by a societal worker to measure the capableness of the appliers for taking attention of a kid. The assessment signifier is so forwarded to the concluding panel who will make up ones mind whether the appliers are fit to go surrogate carers. Placement in Foster attention Harmonizing to zuravin A ; Deponfilis ( 1997 ) kids are removed from their places to protect them from immediate maltreatments. In many state of affairss, these kids have suffered physical, sexual maltreatment, or disregard at place, and therefore they are placed in a safe environment. A little per centum of kids are in surrogate attention because their parents experience unable to command them, and their behavior may hold led to delinquency or fright of injury to others. Some kids have been neglected by their parents or legal defenders, or have parents or legal defenders who are unable to take attention of them because of substance maltreatment, captivity, or mental wellness jobs. These kids are so placed into surrogate attention until the parents or defenders are capable of looking after them. [ 1 ] In all Foster attention instances, the kid s biological or adoptive parents, or other legal defenders, temporarily give up legal detention of the kid. ( The defender gives up detention, but non needfully legal care. ) A kid may be placed in surrogate attention with the parents consent. In a clear instance of maltreatment or disregard, a tribunal can order a kid into surrogate attention without the parents or defenders consent. Before any arrangement the Foster attention household is screened by the Government or bureau through a psychologist or societal worker that assess the Foster attention households under certain standards such as emotional stableness, motive, parental accomplishments and fiscal capablenesss. [ 2 ] The authorities provides surrogate households with an allotment taking in surrogate kids. They are required to utilize the financess to purchase the kid s nutrient, vesture, school supplies, and other minor expenses. Most of the surrogate parent s duties toward the Foster kid are clearly defined in a legal contract. Foster arrangements may last for a individual twenty-four hours or several hebdomads ; some continue for old ages. If the parents give up their rights for good, or their rights to their kid are severed by the tribunal, the surrogate household may follow the Foster kid or the kid may be placed for acceptance by aliens. [ 3 ] The Aim of Foster Care System Harmonizing to Hayden ( 1999 ) , the purpose of Foster attention system is to protect and back the security of the kid, while supplying surrogate parents and biological parents with the sufficient resources and available services needed to keep the kid s healthy development. Foster attention environments are proposed to be topographic points of safety and comfort, and are monitored by several public assistance bureaus, representatives, and social workers. Personal social workers assigned to a Foster kid by the province or county are accountable for oversing the arrangement of the kid into an appropriate Foster attention system or place. The social worker besides carries out regular visits to the Foster attention household place to supervise advancement. Other agents involved in a kid s arrangement into surrogate attention may include private service suppliers, public assistance bureaus, insurance agents, psychologists, and substance maltreatment counsellors. Types of Foster Care Parents may voluntarily put kids into Foster attention for assorted grounds. Such surrogate arrangements are monitored until the biological household can supply appropriate attention for the kid, or the biological parental rights are terminated and the kid is adopted. A 3rd option, known as care, is sometimes utilised in certain instances where a kid can non be reunified with their birth household and acceptance is non a suited solution. This by and large includes some older surrogate kids who may be strongly bonded to their household of beginning and unwilling to prosecute acceptance. Voluntary Foster attention may be utilized in fortunes where a parent is unable or unwilling to care for a kid ; a kid may hold behavioral or psychological jobs necessitating specialised intervention, or the parent might hold a job which consequences in a impermanent or lasting inability to care for the kid. Involuntary Foster attention is implemented when a kid is removed from their health professional for his or her ain personal safety. A surrogate parent receives pecuniary reimbursement from the arrangement bureau for each Foster kid while the kid is in his or her place to assist cover the cost of run intoing the kid s demands ( Dorsey et al 2008 ) stated that in many states, most of the kids enter the Foster attention system due to pretermit. Children may fall in the Foster attention system via Voluntary or nonvoluntary agencies. Voluntary arrangement may go on when the biological parents are confronting troubles to take attention of the kid. Involuntary arrangement occurs when the kid is being at hazard under the attention of the biological parents. Adoption and Foster Care Reporting System recorded, different types of furthering such as: ( I ) Foster household place, comparative A accredited or unaccredited place of the kid s relations regarded by the province as a Foster attention populating agreement for the kid. ( two ) Foster household place, non-relative A accredited Foster household place regarded by the province as a Foster attention populating agreement. ( three ) Group place or Institution A group place is a accredited or approved place supplying 24-hour attention for kids in a little group puting that by and large has from 7 to twelve kids. An Institution is a installation operated by a public or private bureau and supplying 24-hour attention and/or intervention for kids who require separation from their ain places and group populating experience. These installations may include kid attention establishments, residential intervention installations, or pregnancy places. Problems in Foster Care System [ 1 ] Foster kids face a figure of jobs both within and outside the Foster attention system. Foster kids are more vulnerable to pretermit, maltreatment, household disfunction, poorness, and terrible psychological conditions. The injury caused to a kid when removed from their place is besides terrible and may do depression, choler, and confusion. Surveies have shown that psychological conditions of abused and ignored kids are required to better when placed in surrogate attention, nevertheless the separation from their biological parents doing traumatic consequence on the kid. Children with histories of ill-treatment, such as physical and psychological disregard, physical maltreatment, and sexual maltreatment, are frequently at hazard of developing terrible psychiatric jobs and may be described as sing trauma-attachment jobs. The injury experienced may be the consequence of maltreatment or disregard, inflicted by a primary health professional, which disrupts the normal development of secure fond regard. Associated Problems with Foster Care Child In long term the Foster attention kids suffer from psychological, cognitive and epigenetic effects. The Northwest Foster Care Alumni Study on Foster attention kids showed that Foster attention kids, were found to hold dual the incidence of depression, and were found to hold a higher rate of post-traumatic emphasis upset ( PTSD ) than combat veterans. Tarren-Sweeny ( 2010 ) reported that Children in Foster attention have a higher chance of holding Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and shortages in executive operation, anxiousness every bit good as other developmental jobs. Neurodevelopmental Disorder A neurodevelopmental upset is an damage of the growing and development of the encephalon or cardinal nervous system. It refers to a encephalon upset of encephalon map that affects emotion, larning ability and memory and that unfolds as the single grows. Most Foster attention kids are placed in surrogate attention households at a really immature age which is a critical period for the kids as the development of mental and psychological procedures occur during early childhood. Harmonizing to kristen Rollins, the human encephalon does non develop to the full until the age of 25, and one of the most critical periods of encephalon development occurs in the first 3-4 old ages. Therefore, the human encephalon is influenced by negative environmental factors such as emotional disregard, hapless nutrition and exposure to force in the place and any type of maltreatments. The survey by McCrory E et Al ( 2010 ) states that the negative environmental factors influences all countries of neurodevelopment: neurogenesis ( creative activity of new nerve cells ) , programmed cell death ( decease and resorption of nerve cells ) , migration ( of nerve cells to different parts of the encephalon ) , synaptogenesis ( creative activity of synapses ) , synaptic sculpturing ( finding the makeup of the synapse ) , arborization ( the growing of dendritic connexions, myelinzation ( protective covering of nerve cells ) , and an expansion of the encephalon s ventricles, which can do cortical wasting including reduced activity of the prefrontal cerebral mantle. Harden BJ ( 2004 ) studies that Foster kids have elevated degrees of hydrocortisone, a emphasis endocrine in comparing to kids raised by their biological parents. Elevated hydrocortisone degrees can diminish the immune system. Post traumatic emphasis upset ( PTSD ) Harmonizing to Dubber ( 1999 ) 60 % of kids in surrogate attention who were sexually abused had post traumatic emphasis upset ( PTSD ) . 18 % of kids who were non abused faced PTSD merely by witnessing force at place. These kids so suffer from intrusive memories, flashbacks, turning away, and psychological and physiological responsiveness. Eating Disorders Eating upsets refer to a group of conditions defined by unnatural eating wonts that may affect either insufficient or excessive nutrient consumption to the hurt of an person s physical and mental wellness . Hudson, JI ; Hiripi, E ; Pope Jr, HG ; Kessler, RC ( 2007 ) . Harmonizing to Hadfield Sc ( 2008 ) , Obesity in all age groups of kids has become an increasing concern in recent old ages. Children in Foster attention are more prone to go fleshy and corpulent, and in a survey done in the United Kingdom, 35 % of surrogate kids experienced an addition in Body Mass Index ( BMI ) one time in attention. The kids besides suffer from Food Maintenance Syndrome which is a form of inordinate feeding and nutrient acquisition and care behavior without coincident obsesity. The syndrome is said to be caused by emphasis and ill-treatment of Foster attention kids. Tarren-Sweeney ( 2006 ) analyze provinces that kids in Foster attention besides suffer from Food Maintenance Syndrome which is characterized by a set of deviant eating behaviours of kids in Foster attention. It is a form of inordinate feeding and nutrient acquisition and care behaviours without coincident fleshiness ; it resembles the behavioural correlatives of Hyperphagic Short Stature . It is hypothesised that this syndrome is triggered by the emphasis and ill-treatment Foster kids are subjected to. Northwest Foster Care Alumini survey ( 2011 ) studies that Bulimina Nervosa is seven times more prevailing among former Foster kids than in general population. Epigenetic effects of environment Harmonizing to Weaver ( 2004 ) negative environmental influences, such as maternal want, kid maltreatment and emphasis have a profound consequence on cistron look, including transgenerational epigenetic effects in which physiological and behavioural ( rational ) transportation of information across generations-not-yet-conceived is effected. Neighh GN et Al ( 2009 ) states that the effects of maltreatment may be extended beyond the immediate victim into subsequent coevalss as a effect of epigenetic effects transmitted straight to offspring. Suicide -Death Rate Charles ( 1991 ) states Children in Foster attention households are at a greater hazard of self-destruction. Children from foster attention households as compared to general population have a hazard ratio of self-destructive efforts of four to five clip greater. A survey conducted in Finland have indicated that kids in Foster attention have a higher mortality rate compared to the general population due to incidence of ague and chronic medical conditions and developmental holds. ( Kalland M,2001 ) Academic Prospects Harmonizing to Neild Ruth et Al ( 2006 ) Foster attention kids tend to underperform academically with many neer finishing high school. The kids have low concentration in category and execute ill in tests. Very few kids attempt University and obtain a grade. Barriers in Foster attention System Timing in Placement Childs are more prone to see insecurity in the Foster place during the initial stage of arrangement, particularly in the first six to seven months. ( Mary Bruce Webb et Al, ( 2010 ) Peter J Pecora, James K. Whittaker et Al, ( 2010 ) suggest that older kids experience arrangement Stability during the initial stage compared to babies. In order to diminish the opportunities for arrangement break which kids usually experience during the initial stage of arrangement, it is recommended that kids develop trust and non experience lost in the system. Features of the Home ( Berridge A ; Cleaver, 1987 ) stated that kids have trouble to accommodate in surrogate place when they are placed with other kids who are approximately the same age or if they are placed in surrogate places where the Foster parents have kids of their ain. Foster Children placed with other kids may experience insecure and get down viing for fondness and mercenary objects finally this leads to struggles in the Foster attention household. Children s mental and behavioural wellness Harmonizing to J.Gavin Bremner A ; Theodore D.Wachs ( 2010 ) , Child behavior jobs is among the frequent ground that Foster parents request the remotion of a kid in their attention. Children over the age of four ( 4 ) are more prone to see placement instability due to behavioral jobs. ( Strijker, Zandberg, A ; van der Meulen, 2002 ) Foster Parent Characteristics Training and support for surrogate parents are of a paramount importance to avoid kids see break in their Foster homeFoster parents who have bigger support system such as extended household are more possible to supply a secure arrangement for the kid. . ( Walsh A ; Walsh 1990 ; Redding et al 2000 ) . Furthermore, surrogate parents who seize suited hope and understand causes and ground for a kid s behavior is prognostic of placement stableness. ( Butler A ; Charles 1999 ) Reding in the Foster Care System Definition of reding Reding frequently described as speaking therapy , is a procedure aimed at supplying clients with the clip and infinite to research their jobs, understand their jobs, and decide, or come to footings with their jobs, in a confidential scene. The Royal College ( 2006 a ) defines reding merely as a type of psychotherapeutics which helps people reference and decide their jobs and work through their feelings . ( Jan Sutton A ; William stewart,2008 ) Reding involves the development of a relationship between the client and a trained professional that focuses on the client s concerns and troubles. it is a procedure in which persons have the chance to better upon their apprehension of themselves, including their forms of ideas, behaviors, feelings and the ways in which these may hold been debatable in their lives. Counselling is a collaborative attempt as it involves the client and the counselor working together to place ends. Throughout the guidance procedure the client is encouraged, supported and empowered to look at himself/herself from a different position. The purpose is non merely to assist the client header with a current issue of crisis, but to make so in a manner that produces larning for the hereafter, so that the client can experience more in charge of his/her life. ( M.Ravi 2008 ) 3.4.1 Foster Child Counselling Williams ( 1994 ) , Children in Foster attention have frequently suffered maltreatment, disregard or ill-treatment. Trauma will impact kids in different ways, depending on age, household support, developmental degree and basic disposition. The aim of kid guidance ( taken from Children and Trauma ) include: aˆ? The safe release of feeling aˆ? Relief from symptoms and station traumatic behaviours aˆ? Recovery of a sense of command and control in life aˆ? Correction of misconstruing and self blame aˆ? Restoration of a sense of trust in oneself and the hereafter aˆ? Minimizing the cicatrixs of injury aˆ? Development of specific accomplishments or header tools The Therapy is meant to be a procedure to work through injury and assist a kid understand what has happened to him/her. It besides aims to assist a kid map better in the universe around him /her. 3.4.2 Foster Family Counselling ( Fernandez Elizabeth, 2010 ) Therapy does non alter household kineticss. Puting a kid in therapy will assist the kid but will non repair the jobs in the household. Family reding offers a better opportunity at successful household reunion. However, stairss need to be taken to supply aid to the kid and surrogate household who are in demand of reding. Therefore, counselors and healers need to build a relationship based on common trust for the guidance procedure to get down. Harmonizing to Silva ( 1991 ) , to set up curative common trust, there need to be the undermentioned demands: Accurate Empathy: The healer conveys his or her apprehension of the kid s background and experience ; Genuineness: The healer is every bit self-generated, tactful, flexible, and non-defensive as possible ; Handiness: The healer is accessible and available ( within ground ) when needed, and avoids doing promises and committednesss he or she can non realistically maintain ; Respect: This is both gracious and house, and acknowledges the kid s sense of liberty, control, and duty within the curative relationship. Respect is manifested by the healer s general attitude, every bit good as by certain specific actions Concreteness: Therapy should, at least ab initio be goal-oriented and have a problem-solving focal point. Foster parents are into action and consequences, and to the extent that it is clinically realistic, the curative attack should underscore active, problem-solving attacks before undertaking more sensitive and complex psychological issues. Reding Schemes and Techniques Blau ( 1994 ) recommends that the first meeting between the healer and the kid set up a safe and comfy working atmosphere by the healer s articulating: a positive indorsement of the Foster parents determination to seek aid ; a clear description of the healer s duties and restrictions with regard to confidentiality and privilege ; and Blau ( 1994 ) besides delineates a figure of effectual intercession schemes for surrogate kids including the followers: Attentive Listening: This includes good oculus contact, appropriate organic structure linguistic communication, and echt involvement, without inappropriate remark or break. Empathy: This curative attitude conveys handiness, concern, and consciousness of the disruptive emotions being experienced by the traumatised kids. Reassurance: In acute bahvioural state of affairss, this should take the signifier of realistically reassuring the kid that affairs will be taken attention of. Supportive Guidance: This includes effectual hearing, restatement of content, elucidation of feelings, and reassurance. In appropriate instances, this curative scheme can excite the officer to research implicit in emotional emphasiss that intensify a of course nerve-racking traumatic event. In a few instances, this may take to ongoing psychotherapeutics ( Miller, 2006 ) .

Battle of Champion Hill in the American Civil War

Battle of Champion Hill in the American Civil War   Battle of Champion Hill - Conflict Date: The Battle of Champion Hill was fought May 16, 1863, during the American Civil War (1861-1865). Armies Commanders: Union Major General Ulysses S. Grant32,000 men Confederates Lieutenant General John C. Pemberton22,000 men Battle of Champion Hill - Background: In late 1862, Major General Ulysses S. Grant commenced efforts to capture the key Confederate fortress of Vicksburg, MS. Situated high on the bluffs above the Mississippi River, the town was critical to controlling the river below. After encountering numerous difficulties in approaching Vicksburg, Grant elected to move south through Louisiana and cross the river below the town. He was assisted in this plan by Rear Admiral David D. Porters flotilla of gunboats. On April 30, 1863, Grants Army of the Tennessee began moving across the Mississippi at Bruinsburg, MS. Brushing aside Confederate forces at Port Gibson, Grant drove inland. With Union troops to the south, the Confederate commander at Vicksburg, Lieutenant General John Pemberton, began organizing a defense outside of the city and calling for reinforcements from General Joseph E. Johnston. The majority of these were sent to Jackson, MS though their travel to the city was slowed by damage inflicted to the railroads by Colonel Benjamin Griersons cavalry raid in April. With Grant pushing northeast, Pemberton anticipated that  Union troops  would drive directly on Vicksburg and began withdrawing back towards the city. Able to keep the enemy off balance, Grant instead attacked towards  Jackson with the goal of  cutting the Southern Railroad which connected the two cities. Covering his left flank with the  Big Black River, Grant pressed ahead with Major General James B. McPhersons XVII Corps on the right and issued orders for it  to proceed through Raymond to strike the railroad at Bolton. To McPhersons left, Major General John McClernands XIII Corps was to sever the Southern at Edwards while Major General William T. Shermans XV Corps was to attack between Edwards and Bolton at Midway (Map). On May 12, McPherson defeated some of the reinforcements from Jackson at the Battle of Raymond. Two days later, Sherman drove Johnstons men from Jackson and captured the city.   Retreating, Johnston instructed Pemberton to attack Grants rear. Believing this plan to  be  too dangerous and that it risked leaving Vicksburg uncovered, he instead marched against Union supply trains moving between Grand Gulf  and Raymond.   Johnston reiterated his order on May 16 leading Pemberton to plan a countermarch northeast  towards Clinton.  Ã‚  Having cleared his rear, Grant turned west to deal with Pemberton and begin the drive against  Vicksburg.   This saw McPherson  advance in the north, McClernand in the south,  while Sherman, having completed operations at  Jackson, brought  up the rear. Battle of Champion Hill - Contact:   As Pemberton contemplated his orders on the morning of May 16, his army was strung out along the Ratliff Road from its intersection with the Jackson and Middle Roads south to where it crossed the Raymond Road.   This saw Major General Carter Stevensons division  at the northern end of the line, Brigadier General John S. Bowens in the middle, and Major General William Lorings in the south.   Early in the day, Confederate cavalry encountered Union pickets from Brigadier General A.J. Smiths division from McClernands XIII Corps near a roadblock Loring had  erected on the Raymond Road.   Learning of this, Pemberton instructed Loring to hold off the enemy while the army commenced its march towards Clinton (Map). Hearing the firing, Brigadier General Stephen D. Lee of Stevensons division, became concerned about a potential threat up the Jackson Road to the northeast.   Sending forward scouts, he deployed his brigade on nearby Champion Hill as a precaution.   Shortly  after assuming this position, Union forces were spotted advancing down the road.   These were  the men of Brigadier General Alvin P. Hoveys Division, XIII Corps.   Seeing the danger, Lee  informed Stevenson who dispatched Brigadier General Alfred Cummings brigade to  form on Lees right.   To the south,  Loring formed his  division behind Jackson Creek and turned back an initial attack by Smiths division.   This done, he assumed a stronger position on a ridge near the Coker House. Battle of Champion Hill - Ebb and Flow: Reaching the Champion House, Hovey spotted the Confederates on his front.   Sending forward the brigades of Brigadier General George McInnis and Colonel James Slack, his forces began engaging Stevensons division.   Slightly to the south, a third Union column, led by Brigadier General Peter Osterhaus XIII Corps division approached the field on the  Middle Road  but halted when it encountered a Confederate roadblock.   As Hoveys men prepared to attack, they were reinforced by Major General John A. Logans Division from XVII Corps.   Forming on Hoveys right, Logans men were moving into position when Grant arrived around 10:30 AM.   Ordering Hoveys men to attack, the two brigades began advancing.   Seeing that Stevensons left flank was in the air, Logan directed Brigadier General John D. Stevensons brigade to strike this area.   The Confederate position was saved as Stevenson rushed Brigadier General Seth Bartons men to the left.   Barely arriving in time, they succeed ed covering the Confederate flank (Map). Slamming into Stevensons lines, McInnis and Slacks men began push the Confederates back.   With situation deteriorating, Pemberton directed Bowen and Loring to bring up their divisions.   As time passed and no troops appeared, a concerned  Pemberton began riding south and rushed forward Colonel Francis Cockrell and Brigadier General Martin Greens brigades from Bowens Division.   Arriving on Stevensons right, they struck Hoveys men and began driving them back  over Champion Hill.   In a desperate situation, Hoveys men were saved by the arrival of Colonel George B. Boomers  brigade of  Brigadier General Marcellus Crockers division  which helped stabilize their line.   As the rest of Crockers division, the brigades of Colonels Samuel A. Holmes and John B. Sanborn, joined the fray, Hovey rallied his men and the combined force counterattacked. Battle of Champion Hill -  Victory Achieved: As the line in the north began to waver, Pemberton became increasingly irate at Lorings inaction.   Possessing a deep personal dislike of Pemberton, Loring had realigned his division but had done nothing to shift men toward the fighting.   Committing Logans men to fight, Grant began to overwhelm Stevensons position.   The Confederate right broke first and was followed by Lees men.   Storming forward, Union forces captured the entire 46th Alabama.   To further worsen Pembertons situation, Osterhaus renewed his advance on the Middle Road.   Livid, the Confederate commander rode off in search of Loring.   Encountering Brigadier General Abraham Bufords brigade, he rushed it forward. As he returned to his headquarters, Pemberton learned that Stevenson and Bowens lines had been shattered.   Seeing no alternative, he ordered a general retreat south to the Raymond Road and west to a bridge over Bakers Creek.   While beaten troops flowed southwest, Smiths artillery opened on Brigadier General Lloyd Tilghmans brigade which was still  blocking the Raymond Road.   In the exchange, the  Confederate commander was killed.   Retreating to  Raymond Road, Lorings men  attempted to follow Stevenson and Bowens divisions over the Bakers Creek Bridge.   They were prevented from doing  so by Union brigade that had crossed upstream and had turned south in an attempt to cut off the Confederate retreat.   As a result, Lorings Division moved south before circling around Grant to reach Jackson.   Fleeing the field, Stevenson and Bowens divisions made for defenses along the Big Black River. Battle of Champion Hill - Aftermath: The bloodiest engagement of the campaign to reach Vicksburg, the Battle of Champion Hill saw Grant suffer 410 killed, 1,844 wounded, and 187 missing/captured while Pemberton incurred 381 killed, 1,018 wounded, and 2,441 missing/captured.   A key moment in the  Vicksburg Campaign, the victory ensured that Pemberton and Johnston would not be able to unite.  Ã‚  Forced  to  begin falling back towards the city, Pemberton and Vicksburgs fate were essentially sealed.   Conversely, having been defeated, Pemberton  and Johnston failed to  isolate Grant in central  Mississippi, cut off his supply lines to the river, and win a key victory for the Confederacy.  Ã‚  In the wake of the battle, Grant was critical of McClernands inaction.  Ã‚  He firmly believed that had XIII Corps attacked with vigor, Pembertons army could have been destroyed and the  Siege of Vicksburg avoided.   After spending the night at Champion Hill,  Grant continued his pursuit the next day and w on another victory at the Battle of Big Black River  Bridge.    Selected Sources: Civil War Trust: Battle of Champion HillBattle of Champion HillCWSAC Battle Summaries: Battle of Champion Hill

Cultures in Conflict, Christians, Muslims, Jews in the Discovery Assignment

Cultures in Conflict, Christians, Muslims, Jews in the Discovery - Assignment Example This essay analyzes that many women have dropped the tradition voluminous dress codes and adopted more cosmopolitan and elegant fashions in the country (ProQuest, 82). Foreign fashions have been integrated into the dressing for women within the country and this has been one of the major elements in which change has been clear between the tradition and the modern era.Cultural and social permissiveness within the highly Islamic country of Bahrain was displayed when a 10-year-old girl participated in the world swimming competition in Russia, earlier in the month of August 2015. This prompted a lot of eyebrows to be raised regarding the participation, but since there was no age restriction for participants, the young girl could not be barred from participation (Byrnes, para 2). In the ultimate analysis, the ruling in a case regarding the jailing of the opposition leader within the country has presented a popular debate in a country with the marking of 200 days since his incarceration on August 20th (Rahdi, para1). International media has focused immensely on the political situation in the country and questioned the aspects of democracy with the society. The lack of political tolerance has been cited as the sole reason for the incarceration of Sheikh Ali who has been advocating for nonviolent ways of settling political differences (Naar, para 3). There has been international pressure calling on the government to establish an independent inquiry into the case of the opposition leader.

Implementation and Evaluation Plan Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Implementation and Evaluation Plan - Assignment Example During planning for the implementation process, precision of relevant details and focused execution is of essence. There are various approaches which have been fronted by many medical practitioners and scholars as being effective in this process (Canadian Council on Smoking and Health, 2003). As has been noted in earlier discussion, effective cessation interventions for tobacco related issues require a healthcare facility-based program, which was approximated to take a minimum of at least 6 weeks. This would combine various methods and tools to assist in the implementation process. While carrying out this plan, the participation of all stakeholders is of greater importance since owning of any program by those affected is one sure way of ensuring it is well implemented. The implementation plan would take the following steps: Determining the first program and type that needs to be addressed Here, the cessation intervention programs will take into account the three most important types of gaining change. These would be the awareness of the effects and necessity of changing the behavior, supportive environment that would ensure the nurses are not attracted to smoking and are encouraged by the efforts, and the change in lifestyle for these nurses to start seeing some of their normal practices as actually being abnormal. This implementation part requires that the health facility identifies prior to implementation the strengths and relevant weaknesses of the nurses to ensuring that the above aspects of change are realized. In this case, we take advantage of the strengths that these smoking nurses have to adapt to change by using them to conquer their weaknesses. This is because the implementation program is geared towards making sure that we have a long-term effect and change in behavior in that the cessation would last longer (Royal College of Nursing, 2002). While creating awareness; the level of awareness for participants is increased by creating an interest in the topic. In this case, newsletters, health fairs, posters and testing for toxic levels could be realized. This simply works by motivating the nurses to attend the intervention program. In lifestyle change, the behavior of the participant is changed. This will be done through modification processes, skill building to tackle the urge for smoking and using the experiential learning processes. This kind of implementation practice should be done throughout the period allocated for the intervention program. Supportive environment will be given so as to ensure that a long term, healthy and sustained lifestyle is achieved by these nurses. This will be implemented by putting much emphasis Determination of the level of intensity of the intervention program In the implementation process, the level of intensity in which the intervention program is being carried out will help in the determination of the degree of success, and this is affected by the amount of resources in place, time that has bee n allocated for such an exercise, and the human resources available in the carrying out of the process. It is expected that the level of awareness for nurses attending the intervention for cessation of smoking might not be high since most of the nurses might assume they already know enough. However, it is envisaged that since an enabling environment that supports change of behavior would have been put in place, including best exercise facilities, provision of healthy foods

Elllmer Essay Example for Free

Elllmer Essay To see all NGO’s go in this website http://www. pcnc. com. ph Caloocan Community Score Cards (CSC): A Tool for Social Accountability to be Tested in Bulacan, Caloocan, Pasay and Quezon  City September 28, 2009 Citizen’s engagement should be promoted in all fronts. It is our right to take part in decision-making process, planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of government policies, programs and services. People have the right to transparent, accountable and participative governance, both at the national and local level. Accountability in governance can be defined as the obligation of power holders to account for or take responsibility for their actions. â€Å"Power holders† are those who hold political, financial, or other forms of power, including officials in government, private corporations, international financial institutions and civil society organizations. Social accountability is a â€Å"an approach towards building accountability that relies on civic engagement, i. e. in which ordinary citizens and/or civil society organizations participate directly or indirectly in exacting accountability.   It also  Ã¢â‚¬Å"refers to the broad range of actions and mechanisms (beyond voting) that citizens can use to help government be more effective and accountable, as well as actions on the part of government, civil society, media and other societal actors that promote or facilitate these efforts† Furthermore, social accountability is a process of constructive engagement between citizen g roups and government, a means to check and monitor the conduct and performance of public officials in their use of public resources; and a mechanism towards delivering better services, improving people’s welfare, and protecting people’s rights. One approach to promote social accountability is through the development of Community Score Cards (CSC). In a training conducted by CPE for 40 community leaders in Quezon City, Caloocan City, City of San Jose del Monte and Pasay City (thanks to FES for supporting the activity), Ms. Corrine Canlas enlightened the group on the concepts and practice of CSC. (CPE will publish a manual on CSC within October 2009 as a result of the workshop-training held). According to Ms. Canlas, CSC is ? a tool to generate â€Å"demand-side† information to enhance social accountability. It can also raise awareness and promote local-level mobilization and organization. Also, it can produce meaningful information and analysis which can be understood by all stakeholders and go beyond mere protest to evidence-based dialogues. The main objective of the CSC is to influence the quality, efficiency and accountability of public services provided at the local level. CSC can also be a follow-up or a continuing activity for Barangay Development Planning through Participatory Learning and Action (BDP-PLA). Based on experience, CSC can produce the following outcomes: * Downward accountability of service providers * Empowerment of local service users * Enhanced transparency * Enhanced sensitivity of service users to providers’ constraints * Evidence of service performance   and * Agreements on local reforms Pilot testing of CSC as a social accountability mechanism for planning, monitoring and evaluation will be tested in Barangay 91 Pasay City; Barangay Graceville, City of San Jose del Monte, Bulacan; in Barangay Pasong Putik Proper, Quezon City; and in Barangay 176 (Bagong Silang), Caloocan   City. Source: http://urbangov. wordpress. com/tag/participatory-governance/ Bayanihan Sa Kalunsuran (BAKAL II): Reducing Poverty in the Philippines through Participatory Urban Governance September 8, 2009 In the National Capital Region, the BAKAL 2 Project will be implemented in three cities: Quezon City, Pasay City and Caloocan City. In Quezon City, the project partner will be the Alliance of Progressive Labor (APL)- Women which will be implemented in Barangay Pasong Putik Proper. The co-production program will focus in livelihood development. The project will also ensure that the programs pledged by the city government in support of the barangay development program created by the POs and NGOs in the barangay will be delivered. In Pasay City, the program will focus on integrated health development program which will particularly promote participatory feeding program, community-based primary health program by using alternative means (acupuncture, herbal medicines), and solid waste management program. Housing concerns will also be addressed, which was evidently expressed as a priority need of the residents. During the participatory planning process, they analyzed and realized that  securing housing and land rights will pave way for the improved delivery of basic utilities such as water and electricity. Through the leadership of Punong Barangay Nilo Ilarina , Barangay 91, where the project will be implemented, has initiated a process of participatory barangay development planning (see related story). In Caloocan City, the project will be implemented in Barangay 176 or popularly known as Bagong Silang, which is considered as the biggest   barangay in the Philippines , ith around one million population. It became a resettlement area during the administration of former President Marcos. Bakal 2 will help in promoting health and nutrition, especially among the children in the various day care centers operating in the barangay. Bakal 2 will be implemented in two years, which is being supported by the One World Action (OWA), a London –based campaign organization on good governance a nd women empowerment. Source: http://urbangov. wordpress. com/tag/bakal/ Las Pinas Composting or production of organic fertilizer from wet garbage. July 2007- August 12, 2010 Each of the 20 barangays in Las Pinas City now has at least one composting facility. One rotary composter can process the wet garbage of around 500 families or households. Since July 2007, vermi-composting is now being done in two barangays. Producing 400 kilograms a week, each location sells their produce to farmers in a nearby province as alternative fishmeal aside from organic fertilizer. It helps reduce the amount of biodegradable waste and contributes to the promotion of organic farming. On August 12, 2010 a â€Å"re-cycling day† was launched in five barangays, engaging residents to sell their recyclables to junkshop owners. There is now a monthly â€Å"re-cycling day† in all 20 barangays of the city. Category 1. Las Pinas-Zapote River System Rehabilitation Programme, Philippines December 13, 2002- August 2010 Collection of floating garbage in Las Pinas-Zapote River SystemThe Sagip Ilog (River rehabilitation) program was launched on December 13, 2002. Within the 56-kilometer stretch of Las Pinas-Zapote River System, 30 kilometers are being regularly cleaned. This involves daily collection of floating garbage, as well as the installation of steel garbage traps/wire mesh strainers in the Las Pinas and Zapote rivers to filter the waste/debris. From 2002 to 2005, 9,070 residents from various communities along the river system in Las Pinas City, Paranaque City and Bacoor, Cavite were trained on ecological solid waste and river management. Some of them were designated river watch volunteers. The local government officials and nearby communities actively participated in the information drive and capacity building activities. To date, there are 3,120 trained and active volunteers. The volunteers were organized into different river watch teams in the areas that border on the rivers. In 2001, the Coastal Environment Program of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-National Capital Region (DENR-NCR) replanted bamboo species, locally known as kawayang tinik, to rehabilitate the Marikina and Las Pinas Rivers. These rivers which are both situated in Metro Manila are major contributors to the rapid environmental degradation of Manila Bay. Five kilometers of the said river system were targeted for re-greening using bamboos, mangroves and other related species for soil erosion control. To highlight this effort, two separate portions of the riverbanks were developed into â€Å"bambusetums†, planted with various species of endemic/exotic bamboos. As of August 2010, 10,000 bamboo culms are already planted on the riverbanks measuring 20 kilometers. Re-greening of the river banks minimized soil erosion that caused siltation of the river system. The propagation of culms from the 37 species of bamboos available in the area, have been sources of income through the harvesting of matured poles, sold to interested handicraft/furniture makers. This is aside from the jobs provided by the program to some 62 workers for the river dredging, clean-up, and re-greening activities. Source: http://www. un. org/waterforlifedecade/winners2011. shtml Makati A better future for 4000 Filipino farmers: a project helps to Increase rice yields by 1MT/ha Makati City, 7 July 2011 * The â‚ ¬ 1 billion food facility program was launched by the European Union in 2008 to help developing countries move towards long * term food security. Total EU Assistance to the Philippines under this program is â‚ ¬ 31 million covering eight projects nationwide. Of this amount, â‚ ¬ 4. 2 million (264 million PHP) was granted to FAO to support the Philippine Government in helping poor farmers in rain * fed areas grow more food and adopt sound water management and farming practices The project supports 3,600 small * Scale vulnerable farming households in Regions I and III, namely in Pangasinan, Tarlac, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga and Bulacan , areas which were also affected by the floods in September and October 2009. The project likewise focuses on strengthening capacity at all levels, including the Government’s institutional capacity to expand small * scale irrigation systems to more rice farm ers in rain * fed areas. Around 4000 beneficiary farmers have seen their yield increase by 1MT/ha and incremental production for all crops across cropping seasons was valued at P94. 6 million ( USD 2. 2 million) for project sites. A National Dissemination Workshop and Press Conference is organised on 7 July 2011 at Sofitel Philippine Plaza, Pasay City to present the results of this very successful project. The project used the Farmer Field School (FFS) to transmit knowledge through a participatory approach to technology by sharing and adoption of water management as the focus to maximize the use of the small * Scale irrigation systems (SSIS). The project also provided SSIS to the small farmers participating in the FFS to secure irrigation water thereby decrease ng dependence on rain and avoiding costs incurred from renting pumps. The project ends on a high note after its 18 * Month implementation in the provinces of Pangasinan, Bulacan, Pampanga, Nueva Ecija, and Tarlac covering 35 municipalities and 143 villages . High yields across the five provinces highlighted the FFS on SSIS and Palay (rice) Check during the wet season 2010. The average rice yield increase obtained was about 1MT/ha, brought about by the use of certified rice seeds and training on integrated n utrient and pest managements through the FFS. During the dry season, crop diversification was intensified and complemented by the provision of small * Scale irrigation systems (mostly shallow tube wells or STWs and small farm reservoirs or SFRs). Following the integrated crop management systems (ICM), 24% average yield increase was recorded for rice (for both cropping seasons), 23% for corn and 24% for vegetable production for dry season compared to last year’s produce. The strategy of using the FFS platfo rm complemented the provision of SSIS to the farmer * Beneficiaries so that farmers needed to complete the two cycles of FFS in order to qualify to own a SSIS. Farmers share the cost of the SSIS using cluster ownership approach through the rent * To -own scheme. About 3 * 5 farmers with adjacent farms and one hectare land holding each can be qualified to own an engine and pump set including the drilling for STW, SFR, dugwell, reinforced concrete pipes or deep setting. The SSIS is subsidized at 50% and the remaining 50% is paid by farmers. After full payment, the farmers are issued a Certificate of Full Ownership. With this scheme, the project ensures ownership and sustainability of the SSIS equipment. Malabon CAMANAVA Flood Control Project as Pilot Site December 11, 2012 The launch took place at the Bangkulasi Pumping Station in Navotas City. The Pumping Station forms part of the bigger CAMANAVA (Caloocan – Malabon – Navotas – Valenzuela) Flood Control Project. Worth P4 billion, the CAMANAVA project was chosen as the first participatory audit pilot exercise. It will be implemented by COA in cooperation with selected civil society organizations (CSOs) and in consultation with the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). The choice of the flood control project as a pilot site reflects the government’s intention to shed light on project implementation issues by engaging and empowering the citizens and residents to demand accountability from the government through close monitoring and scrutiny of the use of project funds. The launch culminated with a ceremonial signing of a Memorandum of Agreement among COA, DBM, DPWH and selected CSOs. It also included a pledge of mutual support between COA and CSOs. Additional participatory audit initiatives will be undertaken in 2013 throughout the Philippines. The lessons and experiences gained from these pilots will help determine the framework of a permanent participatory audit program within COA. Mandaluyong Breastfeeding Patrol March 2007 In 2007, Dr Sabalvaro petitioned theUnited Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the Mandaluyong City Department of Health, Centre for Health Development, to sponsor IYCF training for the local breastfeeding group. Upon completion of the training, the mayor held a public gathering where the group pledged their commitment to breastfeeding education. They christened themselves ‘Breastfeeding Patrol’, a name that reflects their tactic of Moving â€Å"There was quietly through the community with an Infectious interest [and asserting] themselves to their neighbours† (Sabalvaro, 2009). Within One year they had persuaded all of the sari? Sari (sundry) Shops within the barangay stop selling formula. Since then, BF Patrol has grown to include women –and A few men From five other Blocks Of Welfareville. Nutrition Committees Of nearby barangays have also started similar advocacy groups, but Breastfeeding Patrol Remains the most well known in the area. Dr Sabalvaro Credits its success to the fact that the group was tarted by local residents, rather than as a government initiative. Block 37, She says, is the only block in the barangay that the milk companies just don’t bother with anymore. Some of Breastfeeding Patrol’s other achievements include successfully lobbying for breastfeeding stations at the mall and in the offices of major employers, such as Globe Telecom. But BF Patrol’s greatest strength is that its volunteers are a resource that is firmly rooted in the community. The Mother volunteers (and A few father volunteers, and one grandfather volunteer) are active socially and stay alert to any new pregnancies among their neighbors. Many New mothers seek them out, especially when they have decided to return. Manila Marikina Muntinlupa PHILIPPINE SANITATION ALLIANCE (PSA) PROJECT 2007 CHALLENGE Poor governance and weak enforcement of existing laws and regulations results in environmental degradation in the Philippines. While the Clean Water Act of 2004 requires the development of sewage and septage treatment systems, implementation requires capacity building and technical assistance. The private sector needs to be engaged, and the capacity of local government units (LGUs) and water districts has to be strengthened for them to develop effective and sustainable sanitation programs. INITIATIVE The USAID Philippine Sanitation Alliance (PSA), which ran from 2007 to 2011, worked with LGUs, water districts and private sector partners to develop affordable ways to protect biodiversity and reduce public health risks through improved sanitation. With assistance from the PSA, cities, water districts and private companies built treatment facilities using appropriate technology. Projects included low-cost, low-maintenance treatment facilities for public markets, slaughterhouses, hospitals and low-cost housing; and city-wide programs to properly maintain septic tanks (septage management). Cities developed effective promotion campaigns to increase willingness to pay for sanitation services and reduce the incidence of diarrhea through proper hygienic practices, particularly handwashing. Governance was also strengthened to reduce threats to biodiversity as LGUs worked to control wastewater discharges to coastal and freshwater ecosystems. PSA was part of a USAID initiative called the Global Development Alliance. The PSA assists partners through: Participatory planning workshops to develop action plans; Technical assistance to develop infrastructure and local ordinances; Information sharing for nationwide replication through national associations of cities, hospitals, hotels and restaurants, and housing developers; Site visits to learn about best practices and affordable options; Information and resource materials on technology and financing options; Training on how to develop effective promotion campaigns using a toolkit; and Sharing project results and lessons learned in local and national conferences. Under the USAID-Rotary International Water Alliance program the PSA worked in partnership with Rotary clubs and districts to implement a septage management and sewerage project in San Fernando, La Union. A second project improved water quality, access to toilets, solid waste management and health in the Pasig River System in Metro Manila. During four years of implementation, the PSA worked with its partners to provide more than 1. 4 million people with access to improved sanitation, leveraged more than $4 million in cash and in kind investments in sanitation infrastructure and activities, and trained more than 5,400 people. Some of the project results included: Onsite wastewater treatment: public and private sector partners financed 41 onsite wastewater treatment facilities for housing developments, public markets, hospitals, slaughterhouses and commercial centers; Septage management: facilitated the first city-wide septage management program in the Philippines funded jointly by the city government and water district of Dumaguete. Septic tanks are being desludged on a five-year cycle and the program will achieve full cost recovery in about five years. Five other septage management programs are in various stages of development; and Hygiene promotion: assisted partners in planning and implementing effective handwashing promotion campaigns for children with measurable results, and partners passed ordinances requiring soap and water in public restrooms. In Manila, community members decided to work together to end open defecation to protect public health and increase tourism in the historic district of Sta. Ana. ALLIANCE PARTNERS The Philippine Sanitation Alliance included ten cities (Cagayan de Oro, Calbayog, Dumaguete, Iloilo, Malaybalay, Meycauayan, Muntinlupa, Naga, Sta. Rosa, Zamboanga), and four water districts (Calamba, Cebu, Davao and Laguna). Private sector companies and associations included Coca-Cola Export Corporation, Max’s Restaurants, C TRADE, Chamber of Real Estate and Builders’ Associations (CREBA), the Hotel and Restaurant Association of the Philippines (HRAP), and the Philippine Hospital Association. Technical resource partners included Engineers without Borders and BORDA, a German NGO. Other NGOs included Gawad Kalinga (low-cost housing) and the Blacksmith Institute (pollution remediation). The PSA coordinated closely with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of Health, Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council, Local Water Utilities Administration, Mindanao Economic Development Council, World Bank, and the Philippine Ecological Sanitation Network. Navotas CAMANAVA Flood Control Project as Pilot Site December 11, 2012 The launch took place at the Bangkulasi Pumping Station in Navotas City. The Pumping Station forms part of the bigger CAMANAVA (Caloocan – Malabon – Navotas – Valenzuela) Flood Control Project. Worth P4 billion, the CAMANAVA project was chosen as the first participatory audit pilot exercise. It will be implemented by COA in cooperation with selected civil society organizations (CSOs) and in consultation with the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). The choice of the flood control project as a pilot site reflects the government’s intention to shed light on project implementation issues by engaging and empowering the citizens and residents to demand accountability from the government through close monitoring and scrutiny of the use of project funds. The launch culminated with a ceremonial signing of a Memorandum of Agreement among COA, DBM, DPWH and selected CSOs. It also included a pledge of mutual support between COA and CSOs. Additional participatory audit initiatives will be undertaken in 2013 throughout the Philippines. The lessons and experiences gained from these pilots will help determine the framework of a permanent participatory audit program within COA. COA Encourages Greater Citizen Engagement in the Audit of Government Programs 11 December 2012 The Commission on Audit (COA) launched the Citizen Participatory Audit project on 26 November in Navotas City. The project aims to enhance transparency and accountability in government, particularly in the use of public funds through greater public involvement in the audit process. Implemented in partnership with the Affiliated Network for Social Accountability East Asia and the Pacific (ANSA-EAP) and funded by the Philippines-Australia Public Financial Management Program (PFMP), the project seeks to raise citizen’s awareness and understanding of the Commission’s mandate, functions and operations. It also provides a venue for citizen engagement with COA personnel in the review and scrutiny of government expenditures. Paranaque 2007 BURSARY AWARD Title: Making food Go Further: Hunger Mitigation, Urban Food Security Project With soaring food prices and rice production shortfalls, more and more Filipino families are falling into poverty and experiencing hunger. Results of a survey con ducted by the Social Weather Stations in the second quarter of 2008 revealed that 2. 9 million Filipino families said they were suffering from hunger. The National Capital Region, which includes Paranaque City, posted the highest â€Å"self-rated† hunger incidence of 22. According to the Philippines Food and Nutrition Research Institute, there was a significant increase in the cases of underweight children from 24. 6 percent in 2005 to 26. 2 percent in 2008. The malnutrition cases are highest in some provinces in Mindanao, Southern Tagalog, and Eastern Visayas. The same areas where high percentage of self-rated hunger was found (SWS, 2008). FNRI (2008) pointed out that the increase in malnutrition cases is brought primarily by the rising food prices and so less food intake. Rice prices have increased by an average of 28 percent since December 2007, prompting two * thirds of Filipino families to reduce food spending and consumption. About one in four families have already cut back on rice spending/consumption, which could eventually have a telling effect on household nutritional status given that rice accounts for up to 20 percent of total food expenditures and is the bulk of the Filipino diet. With this unfolding scenario * and the reality that one third of the total Philippine population Lives in Poverty * it is unlikely that the country’s hunger situation will drastically improve in the Foreseeable future. In the Philippines, food insecurity is exacerbated by large family size, particularly in poor households. The average family size in the city of Paranaque is 5 higher than the national average of 4. 2. Data from the 2006 Family Income and Expenditure Survey (FIES) showed that a five-Person family in the National Capital Region (NCR), where Paranaque City is located, has an average annual income of Php 313,000 ($6,388). Historical data shows that poverty incidence increases as families grow. According to the 2003 FIES, families with six or more members had double-digit subsistence (food poor) incidence compared to families with five or fewer members. 2. Goals amp; Objectives The intervention goal is to mitigate hunger and malnutrition among families and children. The assumption of the intervention is based on the conceptual framework of food security and the theory of change. That is people get hungry and subsequently may become malnourished when there is no food or they have no access to food and they utilize inadequate and inappropriate food. This is addressed by way families and children produce their own food in schools, households, and communities to ensure they have access to healthy and nutritious food. Based also on the assumption that when families are producing their own food they can have savings to buy other food needs that they do not produce. This way, families especially mothers have food items to contribute, from their own food gardens and from savings, to ollectively feed their malnourish children. 3. Key Activities Integrated School, Household and Community Food Production to Ensure Access to Healthy and Nutritious Food. This intervention is only a component of Making Food Go Further: Mitigating Hunger and Ensuring Future Resilience and Stronger Households in the Philippines Program. The main intervention focuses on building the capacity of beneficiaries in schools, households and communities to address food availability and nutrition issues. This is being done through two key activities: organic food production at schools, homes and communities; and the implementation of an integrated community approach to addressing malnourished children. 1. Small-scale, diversified organic food production at schools, homes and communities Parents, students, teachers, community leaders, and government officials and agency heads were trained on how to produce organic crops, fish, and vegetables using the Permaculture1 approach. The trainings have always hands -on activities and done on site and during learning visits to different organic production systems. Participants were also trained on how to do seed banking, organicfertilizers and pesticides making to ensure they will have seeds and organic inputs for the succeeding benefits of organically produced foods to the family and children during community meetings. Though organic food production is laborious by nature, the approach done to encourage families to practice organic food production was by mobilizing small groups of organic gardening enthusiasts in the community to demonstrate that a small * Scale (based on the family’s capacity and the availability of area at home, schools, and community) vegetable gardening using Perm culture approach can really produce organic foods. This approach designs a food production system that does not exploit or pollute the environment. It uses only organic production inputs that create a natural ecological balance in a particular location. It promotes the creation of a Harmonious relationship between plants, buildings, animals and Infrastructures on the way these are place in the landscape. Sufficiency at home and not for commercial purposes. This way they can be efficient with the available labor they have in the family to grow organic vegetables. The project also emphasized that savings from not using expensive chemical inputs also serve as income for the family which can be used to buy other food items and for other investment of the family. This is aside from the health amp; nutrition benefits of using organic inputs. To intensify the promotion of organic food production at schools, households, and communal areas, a food gardening competition was implemented. All the criteria used were consistent to the Perm culture principles so that participants are actually doing organic food production practices. A regular valuation activities and participatory monitoring and evaluation of the progress of food gardening at the three levels are done through the project management team composed of all the partners and stakeholders from the community, schools, and local government units including community health units. In all the activities and phases of organic food production, all the partners and stakeholders are always given the leadership in planning, decision-making, and implementation of plans and decisions. The project management team which is led by the project beneficiaries is the venue where they discuss, decide, and agree to collectively work as a team as they address the same targets—hungry families and malnourish children. Small -scale organic food gardening give women and men of a household the opportunity to work together to increase food availability. This was done through scheduling of works and responsibilities based on their capacity. The small-scale food gardening enabled women and men to participate in areas where they choose they are capable of doing for them to produce and access food. The products from the schools, households and group/communal food gardens become source of protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals of beneficiaries. These include but not limited to fish, mushrooms, legumes and lentils (e. g. string beans, mung bean, winged bean) , root crops (e. g. cassava, taro), corn, leafy and green vegetables (drumstick tree, pechay, mustard, spinach, amaranth, swamp cabbage, Malabarnightshade)yellow vegetables (e. . squash), fruit vegetables (tomato, eggplant, pepper), and edibleherbs (e. g. oregano, basil, mints). Pasay 2007 Philippine Child Friendly Cities and Communities Research:Community Assessment in Barangay 156, Pasay City The Philippine Child Friendly Cities Assessment Research is part of a global research initiative to assess the child friendliness of communities, from the perspective of c hildren and parents. Barangay 156 in Pasay City is one of two communities in Metro Manila selected for the assessment researching which this report is based The research report discusses the degree of child friendliness of Barangay 156 and provides an evaluation of the research tools and procedures utilized for the community study. Background of the Philippine CFC Research assessing the degree of child friendliness of cities and communities is one of the nine building blocks of the global Child Friendly Cities (CFC) Initiative launched over a decade ago. Although a number of assessment tools were developed to monitor child rights, these assessments came from the perspectives of individuals and groups working outside of communities. Largely missing were the views and opinions of community members, including children. To help bridge this gap, a research initiative involving the participation of several institutions namely Child watch International, City University of New York? s Children’s Environments Research Group, Bernard Van Leer Foundation, UNICEF? s Innocent Research Centre and Adolescent Development and Participation Section, New York, UNICEF country offices and local research institutions in eleven countries have collaborated to carry out a participatory assessment research. The CFC global research seeks to improve the conditions of children living in cities and communities of different types by (1) enhancing the capacity of cities and communities to better assess and monitor their level of fulfillment of children’s rights with the participation of the children themselves; (2) improving the quality and breadth of data collected on children by children and their mothers to better inform policies and programs; (3) raising awareness on children’s rights among city stakeholders like children, caregivers, community members, and local leaders; and (4) refining the action-research tools for appropriate action in cities/communities in different socio-economic, cultural and political contexts. The Philippines is one of 11 countries participating in the CFC research. The specific objectives of the Philippine CFC research are (1) to collect data and provide an analysis of the conditions of children by children and mothers in two selected cities and communities, and the governance structures and processes available to respond to their needs, and (2) to contribute to applying and refining the research toolkits and guides by using them in a range of communities, observing the process and how the data are subsequently used for community planning and advocacy, as well as contributing to the overall municipal data base on the conditions of children Pasig Quezon San Juan Taguig Valenzuela CAMANAVA Flood Control Project as Pilot Site December 11, 2012 The launch took place at the Bangkulasi Pumping Station in Navotas City. The Pumping Station forms part of the bigger CAMANAVA (Caloocan – Malabon – Navotas – Valenzuela) Flood Control Project. Worth P4 billion, the CAMANAVA project was chosen as the first participatory audit pilot exerc ise. It will be implemented by COA in cooperation with selected civil society organizations (CSOs) and in consultation with the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). The choice of the flood control project as a pilot site reflects the government’s intention to shed light on project implementation issues by engaging and empowering the citizens and residents to demand accountability from the government through close monitoring and scrutiny of the use of project funds. The launch culminated with a ceremonial signing of a Memorandum of Agreement among COA, DBM, DPWH and selected CSOs. It also included a pledge of mutual support between COA and CSOs. Additional participatory audit initiatives will be undertaken in 2013 throughout the Philippines. The lessons and experiences gained from these pilots will help determine the framework of a permanent participatory audit program within COA. Pateros Wells Project: recreation 2012 Douglas PUD has helped fund and develop the existing parks and recreation facilities adjacent to Wells Project lands and waters in the City of Pateros. These facilities include Peninsula Park, Memorial Park, tennis courts, two separate concrete boat launches, parking, a fish cleaning station and restrooms. Peninsula Park is located near the confluence of the Methow and Columbia rivers. It includes a gazebo, paved walking path, covered picnic shelter, swimming beach, restroom facilities, playground equipment, and lagoon and lawn area. Memorial Park is located in Pateros along the Columbia River. It includes three covered picnic shelters, fishing and ski docks, vehicle parking, interpretive displays, restroom facilities, a fish cleaning station and a developed waterfront trail. The waterfront trail extends along the waterfront from the concrete boat launch underneath the Highway 97 Bridge through Memorial Park to the Pateros City Hall. A second boat launch is located just upstream of Memorial Park on the main stem Columbia River.

Stranger On A Train :: essays research papers

Stranger On A Train According to me, the model of "the classic cinema" is respected in the movie Strangers On a Train. The movie starts on a train, where we are introduced to the two main characters, having a conversation. The subject of the conversation is basically the most important part of the setup. By listening to them, we could predict the direction that the story was going towards. Throughout the rest of the introduction, we are introduced to the rest of the important characters. The first plot point, as expected, takes place when Bruno murders the protagonist's wife. After doing so, he expects the protagonist to do his part of the plan, who refuses Bruno's offer because they never had planned it. The protagonist's identity is threatened because he's accused of a crime which he never committed. We could also see the presence of oedipus complex: Bruno's hatred towards his father since his childhood. According to me, the model of "the classic cinema" is respected in the movie Strangers On a Train. The movie starts on a train, where we are introduced to the two main characters, having a conversation. The subject of the conversation is basically the most important part of the setup. By listening to them, we could predict the direction that the story was going towards. Throughout the rest of the introduction, we are introduced to the rest of the important characters. The first plot point, as expected, takes place when Bruno murders the protagonist's wife. After doing so, he expects the protagonist to do his part of the plan, who refuses Bruno's offer because they never had planned it. The protagonist's identity is threatened because he's accused of a crime which he never committed. We could also see the presence of oedipus complex: Bruno's hatred towards his father since his childhood. The object of the protagonist's and the camera's look was usually women. When Bruno was committing the murder, we could see only her (the victim) and the reflecting light on her glasses. Also by the time when Bruno was demonstrating

Knights Tale Compare And Contrast Movie And Book Essay

The book and the movie have some similarities, where they use swords to fight, but the movie used more lances for jousting. Comparing both the book and the movie to our real lives, our lives don ¡Ã‚ ¦t have too much in common. In our lives we don ¡Ã‚ ¦t carry around swords, and wear armor, or compete in games with lances. Our competitions usually consist of our bare hands and feet, to fight. In a way we do have a type of sport that is almost similar to sword fighting, which is called  ¡Ã‚ §Fencing. ¡Ã‚ ¨ This is where the rules are almost similar but you fight in different motions. We also have games that use guns also, but they also hurt a lot, this game is called  ¡Ã‚ §paint ball. ¡Ã‚ ¨ Where you try to hunt down your opponent and shoot him before he shoots you with his paint balls. The time periods are different, since the book and the movie are told in the medieval times. While ours is present twentieth century time. We drive cars, ride bikes, or some even ride the buses. In the movie and the book they had mostly rode horses, or walked. In which some cases some people still do walk now to get to certain places. The old ways are also the new ways in religion. Since we still believe in the Christian ways, like they did back in the medieval times, but mainly the English people believe in this. They way they had lived in the medieval times, was that they lived mostly in hard concrete houses, or brick houses. They would use lanterns for their lights, or torches, sometimes even to stay warm they would build a small fire. Now we just build our houses out of wood, but there are still some that are made out of concrete and bricks. The majority of houses are built out of wood, and run on electricity, to heat the house, or to cool it down with the air conditioning. The only time that we light lanterns or fires are when we go out camping, so we bring fire wood, and other equipment ¡Ã‚ ¦s to cook with, such as a small gas stove.

A comparison of two media articles Essay

The Daily Express and The Independent write about the same event, England’s 2-0 victory over Greece in one of England’s world cup qualifier matches. It is obvious from looking at the articles that they are set out and written differently, this is because of their target audiences. The Independent is a more formal newspaper in A2 size, aimed at the more educated person. It is generally read by people in the social groups of A, B and C1, this includes people such as doctors, policemen and other such skilled workers. The Daily Express however is a much less formal newspaper, in A3 size, its target audience are people who are generally less educated and belong in the social groups of C1 and C2, people like builders, receptionists and other unskilled workers. The Daily Express’ article dominates the entire back page with very little else but a small sub article and some small adverts, the Daily Express sets it out in this way to attract its readers to the paper and article, it is bold and stands out. The Independent is different in this as the article takes up roughly half of the page, with enough room to have another article on the same page this is because of its much larger page. The Independent does not use big bold headlines or make it to try and attract the reader into the story; instead they set the article out in a more professional form making it look elegant and neat. This is done as The Independents readers do not want to be enticed into reading an article just because it looks attractive and stands out, they will read what is of interest to them and for content of the story. The Daily Express however uses the bold headlines and dominating layout to attract it’s readers into the article and paper. The Daily Express includes two pictures in its article, one for the main article of the match and the other one shows the gossip of the match. The Daily Star does this as their readers like pictures to attract them to the story and also like to read about the gossip as well, in this case the bottles being thrown at David Beckham’s head. The picture for the main article that the Daily Star chooses to show is that of David Beckham celebrating his goal, however they have blocked everything else out of the picture and just have David shown with a bold black outline. The picture is laid out across the page in an untidy fashion making it bolder and more attracting to its reader. This is done as the readers of the paper recognise David as a big celebrity and so want to read what is said about him. The Independent however is very different it has only one picture; it dominates the article but is set out in a square as a neat part of the article. The picture is the same as Daily stars however it is much broader as it shows more than just David Beckham; it is left showing us the stadium and the crowd’s celebrations. The chooses to do this as its readers prefer a much more in depth view as to what has happened when reading their articles, with this they can see the sort of atmosphere there would have been in the Stadium. The Daily Express uses a type of language typical of most tabloid newspapers, but not usually seen in broadsheet newspapers; puns, a play on words. The Daily Express uses pun in the headline of its article which focuses solely on David Beckham. The headline is â€Å"Haircules†, deriving from the ancient Greek God of Hercules, a mighty, strong warrior. The Daily Express has done this as it shows David Beckham as the mighty warrior of the football match. The beginning part â€Å"Her†, has been altered to â€Å"Hair† to apply more to David Beckham and his famous, forever changing hair cut. The Daily Express uses war imagery; the writer uses words, phrases and sentences which compare the football match to a bloody battle or war. The sub header is a great example of this war imagery language with the phrase â€Å"cool under fire†. We would more often than not associate this sort of term with a soldier who had kept his cool whilst being shot at, however in this case it has been changed to describe an aspect of the football match. Also, â€Å"missiles†, â€Å"victory† and â€Å"stoop to conquer† are more war imagery terms which the writer has used to elevate the match and make it seem more exciting. The Independent has not used war imagery as this is a very convincing language, the paper would much rather its readers made up their own minds rather than have them made for them. Sentence Length, sentence structure and sentence variety are another three things which sets these two articles apart. Whereas the Daily Express uses very simple, basic, short sentence structures The Independent uses longer more complex sentence structures which appeal more to its readers. The Daily express does not break down its sentences with punctuation, punctuation is very basic in this article for example, take the opening sentence of each, â€Å"Skipper David Beckham provided the perfect answer to the Greek thugs who targeted him last night with missiles as he curled in the free kick which put the seal on victory in Athens and kept England’s world cup hopes alive†, not a single comma is used to break down that very large sentence. ‘†Bring on the Germans† was the cry from the sunburned, shaven-headed masses in the northern arc of the Spiro Louis Stadium last night and there would not have been a single man in the England dressing room who would disagree’, in this the Independents the sentence is broken down by a quote and comma. Both of the articles input interviews from David Beckham; they are very similar but The Independents comments contain better vocabulary as to appeal more to its readers. The Independent inputs phrases such as â€Å"the importance of maintaining our discipline†, so that the comments appear more intellectual and appeal more to its readers. The Daily Express however writes this comment as â€Å"It was important we kept our discipline†, keeping the phrase more simple, so that it’s less sophisticated readers are not put off by complex language. The independent also contains much more dialogue than the Daily Express, this is because the Independent would like to get across as many view points as possible on the match, so that it’s readers can think for themselves and come to their own decision on the what kind of match the game was. In conclusion both of the articles are effective for their different readers. The Daily Express writes more basically and writes more about gossip and facts to appeal to its lesser educated readers. With bold headlines and the picture of David Beckham the paper is going to sell as it attracts its readers. The Independent is very different, it is much more factual, it’s more educated readers are less interested in the gossip and would rather read the facts. The article contains a lot of dialogue and refrains from using war imagery, presenting different view points enabling the reader to make their own decision on the match.

Free Essays on Competition

THE GOOD Competition is clearly a part of human nature. While some cultures are more competitive than others, universal elements of competition cut across many cultures. For example, competition for resources in the forms of food, jobs, living quarters, and general status in society is prevalent, to some degree, in most cultures. Furthermore, an element of score keeping is evident in the most innocent of children's games. The number of young people participating in competitive events such as athletics, 4-H contests, spelling bees, academic quiz bowls, or beauty Contests demonstrates how competition engages the youth in this country. Adults, too, compete daily both at work and at play. Some believe that the only way to achieve a competitive edge in the adult world is by engaging in as many competitive experiences as possible in childhood to gain practice. Support of competition is so strong that one political party recently included a mandate for competition through participation in 4-H activities as part of the Iowa caucus. This was a response to an attempt to recognize participation ahead of winning or losing at 4-H events, and was perceived by party leaders as promoting socialism. So competition clearly exists. Exactly how competition motivates young people, however, is much less clear. According to some studies, competition among preteens enables them to compare their skills against the skills of their peers. Competition as a means of social comparison appears to help young people find their niches. As soon as this is established, they can refine and specialize their skills. Helping young people manage the competitive demands of their lives is difficult, but not impossible. Cox (see Practice Wisdom) offers helpful strategies for designing programs in which competition enhances development.... Free Essays on Competition Free Essays on Competition THE GOOD Competition is clearly a part of human nature. While some cultures are more competitive than others, universal elements of competition cut across many cultures. For example, competition for resources in the forms of food, jobs, living quarters, and general status in society is prevalent, to some degree, in most cultures. Furthermore, an element of score keeping is evident in the most innocent of children's games. The number of young people participating in competitive events such as athletics, 4-H contests, spelling bees, academic quiz bowls, or beauty Contests demonstrates how competition engages the youth in this country. Adults, too, compete daily both at work and at play. Some believe that the only way to achieve a competitive edge in the adult world is by engaging in as many competitive experiences as possible in childhood to gain practice. Support of competition is so strong that one political party recently included a mandate for competition through participation in 4-H activities as part of the Iowa caucus. This was a response to an attempt to recognize participation ahead of winning or losing at 4-H events, and was perceived by party leaders as promoting socialism. So competition clearly exists. Exactly how competition motivates young people, however, is much less clear. According to some studies, competition among preteens enables them to compare their skills against the skills of their peers. Competition as a means of social comparison appears to help young people find their niches. As soon as this is established, they can refine and specialize their skills. Helping young people manage the competitive demands of their lives is difficult, but not impossible. Cox (see Practice Wisdom) offers helpful strategies for designing programs in which competition enhances development....

A Raisin In The Sun and Sonny’s Blues

A Raisin In The Sun and Sonnys Blues A Raisin in the Sun, authored by Lorraine Hansberry and Sonny’s Blues, authored by James Baldwin are two masterpieces that have an array of comparisons and contrasts. Lorraine Hansberry’s play is a depiction of an African American family, the Youngers living in a racially segregated neighborhood. Although the family lives together, conflicts arise on what to do with the $10000 insurance policy money paid after the death of the Mama’s husband. Each member has different aspirations and the story focuses on how the family uses the money and integrates their individual dreams to fit the family. On the other hand, Sonny’s Blues is a depiction of the struggles two brothers face in segregated Harlem. It is about Sonny and his brother the narrator, both who are living separate lives after the death of their parents. After the narrator loses his daughter to Polio, he remembers the promise he made to his mother of taking care of Sonny and he decides to try to fulfi ll this promise and try to get Sonny back to normal life after drugs nearly destroy him. Each story depicts the lives of African American families in a time of racial injustice. Both families encounter obstacles during their quest to move forward to find happiness. In her journal, Lipari points out that the setting of A Raisin in the Sun, was at a time when the â€Å"fundamental structures of political, social and economic oppression of African Amewricans were in the foreground of public life† (Lipari, 97). This journal points out that during this period African American families’ encountered obstacle in economic, social and political in trying to make it in life and finding happiness. Likewise, Martinez comment regarding racism in Sonny’s Blues is a phenomenon having â€Å"festered and thrived in American unconscious psyche while it has been and continues to be acted out in myriad forms of injustice in the society† (Martinez, 1). This clearly illustrates that families in Harlem faced numerous challenges especially with the issue of racial segregation and injustice. He points out that Baldwin â€Å"claims that the narrator’s and Sonny’s lives are representative of the collective suffering of racism experienced by young black males growing up in the Harlem of mid-twentieth-century America† (Martinez, 2). In both stories, a common theme that stands out is that of racial segregation and injustices. In Hansberry’s story, racial segregation reveals its ugly head when Mr. Linder attempts to persuade the Younger family from moving to their new home, mostly inhabited by whites. He even attempts to pay them off to keep them from moving in the mostly white neighborhood. This action is nearly successful since Walter is willing to accept the bribe but Mama stands her ground and at last thy move to their new home. Likewise, in Sonny’s blues, racial issues and injustices are prevalent in the community and the au thor effectively uses recurring images of darkness to bring to light these themes. Sonny and his brother lived in a predominantly black neighborhood and even their father gave up trying to move them away from Harlem, â€Å"Safe! My father grunted, whenever Mama suggested trying to move to a neighborhood which might be safer for children† (Feinstein and Rife, 26). The narrator who is a teacher also illustrates how racial issues and segregation were part of Harlem by describing the students he taught, â€Å"All they really knew were two darknesses, the darkness of their lives, which was now closing in on them and the darkness of movies which had blinded them to that other darkness† (Feinstein and Rife, 26). Both stories highlight the hopelessness that existed in these racially segregated neighborhoods in both stories where whites had opportunities in contrast to blacks who had to endure difficult situations.