Insecure Gender Identity - 1090 Words

Results that demonstrated the influence of overconfident gender identity on maltreatment yielded slim support: children who reported a significant intergroup bias as well as a high self-efficacy for popularity among peers were increasingly the perpetrators targeting gender-atypical peers (Pauletti et al., 2014). Generally, children with an overconfident gender identity view their gender as superior and this feeling of confidence translates into their dominant social status. According to Pauletti et al. (2014), self-perceived popularity and attractiveness is correlated with aggression in adolescents. The findings for insecure gender identity demonstrated strong support related to the tendency to harass gender-atypical individuals (Pauletti et al., 2014). Consistent with the hypothesis, children who possessed strong gender biases, demonstrated a lack of self-worth, or viewed themselves as inconsistent with their gender experienced a self-discrepancy that was associated with anxiety and frustration and focused their insecure feelings towards their gender-nonconforming peers (Pauletti et al., 2014). Additionally, children who reported felt pressure for gender differentiation but perceived themselves as gender-atypical displayed aggressive behaviors toward non-conforming peers (Pauletti et al., 2014). Similarly, children who possessed low within-gender identity (experience discontent with their gender) and lacked self-efficacy and self-worth increasingly singled out theirShow MoreRelatedThe Black And Burgundy Made Me Essay1392 Words   |  6 Pageslabel on myself. Many individuals questioned my sexuality and gender. It was like my masculinity was endangered by the colors of my nails and I was no longer considered a man anymore. â€Å"Why do you paint your nails?† â€Å"Are you gay?† â€Å"Is it a new trend?† â€Å"Wait, what is that on your nails?†, I was a threat to what society defines as a man, therefore people were desperate to defi ne the purpose of my painted nails. The interference of sex and gender norms causes disruption to social order and people seem toRead MoreGender Roles Of A Woman941 Words   |  4 Pagescome up with is society. I have seen gender roles control my life and others around me. I feel that as society we should break the gender norms and gender roles. Each person has a sex, a gender, and a gender identity. These are all aspects of your sexuality. They are all about who you are, and they are all different, but related. Sex is biological. It includes our genetic makeup, our hormones, and our body parts, especially our sex and reproductive organs. Gender refers to society s expectations aboutRead MoreSociety s Effect On Society1419 Words   |  6 PagesPeople dream and long for the day where they can fulfill the â€Å"American† dream where they settle down with someone of the opposite gender, fall in love, get married, and eventually try for a baby. People wait for nine-months of long and hard obstacles to finally meet their baby boy or baby girl. One cannot help but have a certain mindset already placed for each gender that they are expecting. Many people are going to want to the choice to identify with what they are comfortable with due to the factRead MoreThe Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde1107 Words   |  4 Pagesthe portrayal of gender roles and identity in the play demonstrates the hypocrisy of society to create these fixed expectations which the play challenges through imitation and exaggeration. The dialogue between the characters is rife with satire; however it is most evident through the identity of the different sexes. There is a facade of appearances that ridicules the expression of gender in the play. It works to diminish the idea in society that there is one true gender identity. The male protagonistsRead MoreThe American Psychological Association Defines Gender Identity1301 Words   |  6 Pages Gender James Gadoury January 12, 2015 Professor Cormier English 101 The American Psychological Association defines gender identity as â€Å"one’s sense of oneself as male, female, or transgender† (â€Å"Definition of Terms: Sex, Gender, Gender Identity, Sexual Orientation† 1). Our culture greatly affects our gender identity, and this can be seen through how our media displays men, women, and transgenders. The media is a reflection of the values that are held in American culture and can be used toRead MoreEssay The Psychology of Human Sexuality in The Bird Cage1249 Words   |  5 Pagesthe conservative couple are forced to accept that their daughter will be marrying into an alternative family. #9;Every sexual orientation and lifestyle is explored in this film, through each individual character. Albert plays the emotional, insecure, flighty homosexual male. Armand plays the part of a more reserved, logical, manly homosexual. The Senator is a conservative, political white man who claims to be interested in family values and morality. Both he and his wife are upper class snobsRead MoreGender Differences in Adolescent Self-Esteem2538 Words   |  11 PagesGender Differences in Adolescent Self-Esteem Tiffany Grooms Arcadia University Self-esteem among children and adolescents is a persistent topic discussed in both professional and popular arenas. In fact, gender differences in self-esteem during the teenage years are widely featured in popular stereotypes, and for some time, accepted without actual support from empirical evidence. The ambiguousness of such an extensively talked about topic leads to an unclear picture of how adolescents view themselvesRead MoreThe Girl s Sense Of Desire2009 Words   |  9 Pagesterms of gender is both external and internal: he picks on Benjamin s idea that the failure to identify with a mother with a strong sense of her own desire leads to the daughter failing to achieve recognition of her own desire, leading to the need for submission in order to get recognition (Lichtenberg, 2008). But he reiterates that the development of the girl s sense of desire is also based on body sensations and an innate motivation for sensual enjoyment. Interestingly, he links gender to differentRead MoreTown Folk, Such As, For The First Time In Pleasantville,1805 Words   |  8 Pageshas a homosocial place among her peers (Kimmel 465). Alternatively, she finds a balance in herself as she now has â€Å"I† and a â€Å"me† image (Devor 389). The last part of the movie Pleasantville, all pandemonium breaks loose as Gary Ross has a scene of â€Å"gender betrayal† (Vasquez) which was about people in black and white are outraged because more and more people are becoming in vibrant color, and a riot starts because Bill Johnson paints a nude mural of Betty on the soda shop window. Everyone knows thatRead MoreGender And Gender Impact On Gender1836 Words   |  8 PagesGender is important to Western society, and fittingly, it is deeply woven into the infrastructure of the United States. Whether it comes from the media, school, work, or church, people are fed innumerable amounts of messages everyday instructing them how he or she should look and behave based on their sex, and there is no escaping it. While these gender values have been challenged more frequently and intensely in recent years, one, growing up in a culture that places so much important on gender performance

Inrtoductiontolegal Research-Unit7.Doc Free Essays

Unit Seven Assignment John Mathis Kaplan University Professor Scripps April 16, 2013 Unit Seven Assignment John Mathis – Paralegal April 16, 2013 Mike Jones Town Manager Dear Mr. Jones, Regarding your town’s concern that the drinking water may contain too high of lead levels, please be advised that the federal law designed to make sure drinking water is safe is the Safe Drinking Water Act (1974) which enabled the Environmental Protection Agency to establish drinking water standards. The National Primary Drinking Water Regulations (NPDWR) for Lead and Copper, 40 CFR  §141 and 40 CFR  §142 which regulates lead in drinking water. We will write a custom essay sample on Inrtoductiontolegal Research-Unit7.Doc or any similar topic only for you Order Now The main parts of this regulation are Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) as well as Maximum Contaminant Level Goals (MCLGs). A PDF file of the National Primary Drinking Water Regulations (NPDWR) for Lead and Copper, 40 CFR  §141 and 40 CFR  §142 may been downloaded or viewed at: http://www. gpo. gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2013-02-13/pdf/2012-31205. pdf Today, the majority of the nation’s water systems comply with the National Primary Drinking Water Regulations (NPDWR) for Lead and Copper. The majority of systems that do not are small town systems in rural areas. The regulations are enforceable standards for public water systems. According to the E. P. A. public water systems â€Å"provide water for human consumption through pipes or other constructed conveyances to at least 15 service connections or serves an average of at least 25 people for at least 60 days a year. † Therefore, NPDWR applies to your towns water system serving a population of approximately 20,000. If you have any additional questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me. Yours truly, John Mathis – Paralegal How to cite Inrtoductiontolegal Research-Unit7.Doc, Papers

Corporate Governance and Ethics Responsibility

Question: Discuss about the Corporate Governance and Ethics Responsibility. Answer: Introduction: Corporate social responsibility and Ethics in the bank policy covers the whole process that explains the benefits of the banking policies and its work towards the society. CSR is the integral part of the banks for making any formal policy as it represents the activities of the bank. Nantporth bank is a financial institution that provides the financial services to the customers and also follows the ethics and takes care of the corporate social responsibility as this bank is committed to the social and environment concerns in its operations and maintains the relationship with the stakeholders. The main objective of the CSR is to become a responsible banking aiming at strategic positioning and differentiator in the country by focusing on the all responsibilities towards society. This report talks about the CSR policy made for the Nantporth bank in order to survive in the market and to maximize the profits by contributing in the welfare of the society. The plan or CSR policy also associa ted some risks along with it so the proper implementation of the policy is very important. In simple word the social responsibility stands for what a bank or any other business does for the benefit of the society. The CSR policy function helps to ensure the relationship of the activities with the ethical standards, spirit of the law and all the international norms. CSR also helps in the development of the economy by contributing towards maintaining the quality life of the workforce and family and society. The policy of CSR acts as a guiding document that helps to understand the CSR projects. CSR focus on the stakeholders of the bank to promote a positive image of the bank in the banking environment. The CSR in the banking sector plays a role as it is not a charity, but creates shared value and contribution in the environmental benefits. Purpose of the Policy The formulation of a policy in the bank has two main aspects like: - Developing the strategies keeping in mind the strategic positioning and differentiation in the country To reduce the problem that all the stakeholders creating in the bank operations. The stakeholders of the Nanthporth bank are supporting the production of the alcohol and Tobacco. These activities are against the ethical standards of the company, thats why the Nantporth bank need to make a program that focuses on the social responsibility Minimizing the negative impact of the banking operations on the environment (Souster, 2012). Nantporth bank is obliged to the society for the help and support in the Bank's growth and development. The Bank has the belief that sustainable development cannot be made without the help of the customers and investors. The Nantporth Bank is committed toward the ethical stands and the stakeholders interactions. Nantporth bank has to continue working for the welfare of the society to make its strong position and to be a different among the other banks. The Nantporth Bank, like other Banks, also committed towards giving the monetary support for the development activities of the country by taking care of the environment and human rights. CSR is important by the banking sector because of its commitment towards the society to behave ethically. CSR also helps in the development of the economy by contributing towards maintaining the quality life of the workforce and family and society. The policy of CSR acts as a guiding document that helps to understand the CSR projects. The formal policy of CSR in the bank would work as a mechanism of self regulatory. Scope of the corporate social responsibility policy The scope of this policy is to relate all the activities of bank that focus on the fulfillment of the CSR. The policy of the banks is in compliance of the section 135 of the companies act and contains all the banking operations and also amendments could be taking place with the change of time (Dhingra Mittal, 2014). Governance structure The Governance structure involves the CSR committee as the regulatory body that clear the concept and scope of the CSR banking activities for the bank and the committee of Nantporth bank is comprised of two non executive directors and one the independent director and all the team will work to ensure that compliance with the CSR policy. Corporate Social Responsibility Activities The banking activities or the operations that aimed at the benefits of the society are many in number and all these corporate social activities are explained below: - Education: - Education is very important for the children in order to survive in the corporate world. The banks need to provide the education and training to clear the basics about banking among the children. There are many banks, which have the training centers that provide free education and training for the students (Szegedi, et al., 2015). This is beneficial for society as it creates more interest among the children to become a part of the bank. To provide the job related training and higher education, it is very important to invest some amount of money in these banking institutions. Nantporth bank will continue to work with the state government and also with the non-profit organizations to get the best quality of employees for the banking sector. The main aim of this bank is to promote the education and employment enhancement skills among the people of the country. HealthCare: - The other activity of the bank towards the society is to promote the healthcare of the people as this is also the biggest challenge for the country. The health care is promoted by the Nanthporth bank by creating awareness among the people about the health issues and the available facilities for resolving these issues. It is very important to consider these challenges to make the differentiation and new position in the market. The bank also offers now health policies to their customers to secure their family and to provide the free medical checkups. The Nantporth bank is focused on the development of the models that supports the healthcare in the society (Moharana, 2013). Skill development and sustainable livelihoods: - The Nantporth bank emphasizes on the Improvement of the skills of the young generation to improve the standards of employability. The bank also plans to open the academy for the adults to provide the training for job-oriented skills. Financial Inclusion: - As we all know that, to improve the economic situation of the low income population and it is important to focus to provide them some financial services. The other motive of the Nantporth bank is to reduce the income inequality in the economy (Federation, 2014). The bank would continue to expand in the rural area where the number of low income people is high and bank tries to expand its branches in the rural areas to make their financial services accessible to all the low income groups (PwC, 2012). Employee Engagement in the CSR activities: - The Nantporth bank tries to encourage their employees to work for the betterment of the society (Hoang, 2014). CSR programs and projects for the stakeholders The bank had a highly profitable, wholly-owned asset management subsidiary, which offered mutual funds and money management services. The subsidiary had always considered maximization of profit. To achieve the goal of the bank, it is important to engage all the employees and stakeholders for the maximization of the profits. To provide a CSR program, the bank need to focus the present support and the area of concern like Nantporth is facing the problem by the stakeholders for supporting the production of the alcohol and Tobacco (Wong, 2015). These activities are against the ethical standards of the company, thats why the Nantporth bank need to make a program that focuses on the social responsibility. The following terms and conditions need to be followed by the employees or the stakeholders of the company: - The bank will make sure that all the CSR policies of the bank are non discriminatory in nature and no political and religious restrictions exist in the company policy. The program that we made for the stakeholders should be recommended by the CSR committee and it should be within the limits or area (Lentner Szegedi, 2015). The CSR programs should be more than just a business. It should not be only into providing the services of managing monetary funds. The stakeholders follow the corporate social responsibilities and some ethical standards for making a good position of the bank and also to make new difference. The programs or CSR policy should be implemented within the country and all the low income group people to provide them financial services like credit loans and home loans. For any business model of CSR. It is very important that the social and environmental factors are taken into consideration (Lenka Jiri, 2014). The bank will use all these business models or CSR models with an aim for the sustainable development. Equal treatment for all the shareholders and investors having the same position in the company and they will not be allowed to hide any information from the Bank. Transparency should be followed and the stakeholder or investors will be responsible for any unethical behavior shown in the investment (Kostyuk Mozghovyi, 2012). Stakeholders should post the information on the regular basis and should be available for the time. The profits generating from these CSR projects or policy should not be the part of the profits of the company. The bank should fulfill all its activities by considering all the tax obligations. The aim of any CSR policy is to maximize the sustainable development and the shared value creation for all the shareholders, stakeholders and the society at large (America, 2013). Implementation structure The Nantporth Bank will implement its CSR policy either directly or through the CSR committee that consists of a board of directors with the help of unions, agencies, bank officers or societies, or by the combination of all by the board of directors. The policy of projects rules should be implemented for all the people working in the organization (Kytle Ruggie, 2005). Risk Involved in this CSR programs There is the possibility that the CSR policy of the Nantporth Bank will create Risks. There are many chances that the corporate social responsibility of the policy creates the negative impact for the banking sector. The risk causes may be related to the reputation and image of the bank, financial risk, legal risks and many more risks associated with the governance. The reason of the risk involvement in the policy could be the shared value, sustainability or the Corporate responsibility of the Nantporth bank (OECD, 2014). There are few risks are given below that occurs because of the existence of the corporate social responsibility: - The poor CSR of the bank can damage a reputation and image of the bank or any financial institution. To gain the profits, there is a probability that the profits of the bank can be spent on the parts of the CSR (Limited, 2014). The risk occurs when the managers of the Nantporth show their personal interest in the profits of shareholders Legal risks created if the law does not support any of the clause of the CSR policy It may be possible that the banking operations slow down because of the poor implementation of the CSR and internal Bureaucracy occurred by the CSR. The corporate governance can be negatively affected by the two faced CSR practices. The study has shown that the stakeholders are the one who acts unethically and supports the production of alcohol and Tobacco companies (Bank, 2015). Government regulations are the risk associated with the CSR policy of the banks. Recommendations The CSR policy implementation will be successful if the policy or program of CSR should take care of some of the points. The CSR policy leads to better results only if the governance structure is strong and follows some ethical standards, transparency and accountability. The stakeholder engagement should be enhanced to avoid the risks. It is very important that all the employees and shareholders should be treated equally in the bank to promote gender inequality and wellbeing of all the employees. Human rights should be protected and maintained. The involvement of government is to implement the corporate social responsibility policy on national and international platforms (Yeung, 2011). The bank should build communities for the sustainable development. Environmental responsibility of the corporation is very essentials so as to promote this, Nantporth bank need to take some initiatives. It is mostly recommended that the communication should be very strong. The Objectives and the goals of the company should be communicated or informed clearly to the internal as well as external stakeholders. It is recommended that all the CSR activities and expenses should be checked and audited by the Auditors of the Nantporth. The profits generating from these CSR projects or policy should not be the part of the profits of the company (Matei Voica, 2013). Conclusion From the above study, it is concluded that for every banking sector, it is important to make a corporate social responsibility policy to make a difference in the society and these policy rules should be followed by the each employee of the bank. As this report explained about the purpose of making policy and how the CSR policy or program should be made to avoid the serious issues related with the stakeholders. The banking sector is very vast and it is growing rapidly day by day. Every person goes to the bank for the management of their money or funds, to avail the financial services like home loans, vehicle loans and education loans, or to invest their money in the mutual funds, government securities etc. All these services provided by the Bank are in the favor of the people of the society. This report clears the fact that the banks are committed to make the CSR policy in compliance to the social environment and also the CSR policy promotes the education, healthcare, job oriented ski lls and financial services. For the successful implementation of the CSR policy, it is important to follow all these points and recommendations. Nantporth bank is a highly profitable bank and provides the services of managing the money of the people and the motive of this corporation is to maximize its profits by implementing the best CSR policyin order to make best place in the demanding market. As already discussed above, the education, healthcare, skills of the youth,and financial inclusion are the advantages of the corporate social responsibility. References America, B. o., 2013. Corporate Social Responsibility 2013 report, Available at: https://about.bankofamerica.com/assets/pdf/Bank-of-America-2013-Corporate-Social-Responsibility-Report.pdf Bank, S., 2015. 2015 Corporate Social Responsibility Report, Available at: https://www.scotiabank.com/ca/common/csr/pdf/Scotiabank_2015_Corporate_Social_Responsibility_Report.pdf Dhingra, D. Mittal, R., 2014. CSR Practices in Banking Sector. Global Journal of Finance and Management., 6(9), pp. 853-862. Federation, E. b., 2014. Corporate Social Responsibility, Available at: https://www.ebf-fbe.eu/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/csr-2008-00975-01-E.pdf Hoang, Y., 2014. CSR in banking sector. International Journal of Economics, Commerce and Management, November, 2(11), pp. 1-22. Kostyuk, A. Mozghovyi, Y., 2012. Corporate social responsibility in banks: an international overview, Available at: https://www.virtusinterpress.org/IMG/pdf/CORPORATE_SOCIAL_RESPONSIBILITY_IN_BANKS_AN_INTERNATIONAL_OVERVIEW.pdf Kytle, B. Ruggie, J., 2005. Corporate social responsibility as risk management, Available at: https://www.hks.harvard.edu/m-rcbg/CSRI/publications/workingpaper_10_kytle_ruggie.pdf Lenka, B. Jiri, P., 2014. Corporate Social Responsibility in Commercial Banking - A Case Study from the Czech Republic. Journal of Competitiveness , March, 6(1), pp. 50-70. Lentner, C. Szegedi, K., 2015. Corporate Social Responsibility in the Banking Sector, Available at: https://www.asz.hu/storage/files/files/public-finance-quarterly-articles/2015/a_lentner_szegedi_tatay_2015_1.pdf Limited, T. F. R. C., 2014. Internal Control and Related Financial Internal Control and Related Financial and Business Reporting Matei, M. Voica, M., 2013. Social Responsibility in the Financial and Banking Sector, Available at: https://www.upg-bulletin-se.ro/archive/2013-1/11.Matei_Voica.pdf Moharana, S., 2013. Corporate Social Responsibility: A Study of Selected Public Sector Banks. IOSR Journal of Business and Management (IOSR-JBM), November, 15(4), pp. 01-09. OECD, 2014. Risk Management and Corporate Governance: OECD Publishing, Available at: https://www.oecd.org/daf/ca/risk-management-corporate-governance.pdf PwC, 2012. Right first time: Staying ahead of the conduct agenda Souster, B., 2012. Professional Ethics and Regulation: Organisations and Corporate Governance, s.l.: Bangor Business School. Szegedi, C., Szegedi, K. Tatay, T., 2015. Corporate Social Responsibility in the Banking Sector, Available at: https://www.asz.hu/storage/files/files/public-finance-quarterly-articles/2015/a_lentner_szegedi_tatay_2015_1.pdf Wong, H., 2015. Corporate social responsibility practices in banking sector. Journal of management research, 7(4), pp. 1-17. Yeung, S., 2011. The Role of Banks in Corporate Social Responsibility. Journal of Applied Economics and Business Research, 1(2), pp. 103-115.

Western Governors University free essay sample

In the upper Colorado River basin, four species of fish have been listed as federally endangered. In 1988, the Upper Colorado River Endangered Fish Recovery Program (Program) was created through a distinctive agreement between a suite of entities comprising local, state, and federal agencies, water and power agencies, and environmental and tribal interests (Carlson Muth, 1993; United States Department of the Interior [USDOI], 1987). The Program was established to recover the endangered fishes while allowing for water development to proceed according to federal and state laws. To achieve the recovery goals established by the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Program has embarked on a series of recovery plans focused on three primary activities. The combination of these plans is considerably different from other recovery efforts that focus on single species or activity to recover a species. Often times, these singular efforts are not successful, but efforts to focus more on benefiting the overall ecosystem are successful. We will write a custom essay sample on Western Governors University or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page The first action that the Program has undertaken is the manipulation of streamflows from reservoirs to more closely mimic historical conditions to which the endangered fishes were accustomed. Secondly, the Program has worked to reduce the negative impacts of competition and predation that nonnative fish species are having on the native fish. Finally in order to sustain and increase endangered fish populations, hatchery-reared fish are being stocked into the river. Research suggests that without flow http://wgu. mindedgeonline. com/content. php? cid=23905 1/12 3/7/2014 Western Governors University : RQBT5: Sample final paper #2 manipulation, non-native fish control, and hatchery stocking the endangered fishes of the Colorado River basin will not be de-listed (recovered). In this paper, I will provide an introduction as to why the four big-river fishes of the Colorado River basin are endangered and information on delisting of a species. RECOVERY OF THE FOUR BIG-RIVER FISHES OF THE UPPER COLORADO RIVER BASIN 3 Background/History The Colorado River is one of the single most important bodies of water in the United States. Its life-giving water is the only single reason why the western United States has been able to be settled, farmed, and ultimately developed, giving way to the great metropolises such as Phoenix, Los Angeles, Las Vegas and many others. The Colorado River today supplies more water for consumptive use than any other river in the United States (Carlson Muth. 1989). However, the development of this great resource for mankind has put other species on the brink of extinction. In the history of the Colorado River, there were initially 54 species of fish that were native. Within those 54 species, 83% of those species were endemic (only found in that area) to the Colorado River basin (Carlson Muth, 1989). Four of these species, the big-river species, Colorado pikeminnow (Ptychocheilus lucius), razorback sucker (Xyrauchen texanus), humpback chub (Gila cypha), and bonytail (Gila elegans), found in both the Upper and Lower Colorado River basin are federally listed as endangered. Endangered species are species that are in imminent danger of becoming extinct. With the advent of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (ESA) and the establishment of the Upper Colorado River Endangered Fish Recovery Program, efforts were being made to pull these four species once known as trash or coarse fish (Quartarone, 1995) from the chasm of extinction. Recovery of the population of an endangered species is a long process from listing, to implementing recovery actions and finally the downlisting or de-listing of the species, or its partial recovery or removal from the federal list of endangered species. The reasons for the decline of the big-river fishes of the upper Colorado River basin are many and explicably linked to the growth and development of the communities of the western United States. The primary issue that led to the decline of these species RECOVERY OF THE FOUR BIG-RIVER FISHES OF THE UPPER COLORADO RIVER BASIN 4 was the regulation of the river through the construction of large mainstem dams (impoundments). The impoundment of the river into reservoirs drastically altered the biological and hydrologic conditions to which these species had evolved. The dams created large, deep reservoirs upstream, that released water for hydropower that was consistently cold, moving fish from areas near the dams as well as negatively affecting native fish reproduction by extending hatching periods, reducing growth, and making native fish larvae (young fish) more susceptible to predation by http://wgu. mindedgeonline. com/content. php? cid=23905 2/12 3/7/2014 Western Governors University : RQBT5: Sample final paper #2 nonnative fish (Bestgen 2008). The dams and their operations also changed the types of fish that were found in the river, as the conditions (temperatures, sediment loads and habitat) changed significantly enough to allow nonnative species that were either purposely planted or accidentally released to establish and thrive in basin. These species include small minnow species (red shiner, fathead minnow, sand shiner, redside shiner) to large predatory sport fish (northern pike, channel catfish, smallmouth bass, walleye). From the smallest to the largest nonnative species, they have the ability to prey upon the native fishes. The smaller species prey upon native fish larvae in backwater habitats as well as competing with them for space and food. The larger species prey upon the adult native fishes, taking away the ability of the species to effectively reproduce and recruit. The four big-river fishes of the Colorado River basin (Colorado pikeminnow, razorback sucker, humpback chub, and bonytail) are jeopardized by large mainstem dams, water diversion and nonnative fish species. The changes in the Colorado River basin have altered the river from a stream that flowed with enough force to carve canyons out of bedrock into a harnessed stream serving the people who live along its length (Ono 1983). RECOVERY OF THE FOUR BIG-RIVER FISHES OF THE UPPER COLORADO RIVER BASIN 5 The four big-river species had adapted over millions of years to the difficult conditions imposed upon them by the Colorado River, extremes of streamflows, temperatures, sediment, and geology. Each species is unique and faces individual challenges in recovery. The Colorado pikeminnow is largest of the four big-river fishes and also the top native predator in the system. Once found throughout all of the Colorado River basin, from Wyoming downstream into Mexico, the pikeminnow migrated over 200 miles to and from spawning areas (United States Fish and Wildlife Service [USFWS], 2002a) . Pikeminnow were probably the species most affected by the presence of the dams (Flaming Gorge, Hoover, and Glen Canyon) as their life history is so significantly tied to their spawning migrations. With the dams, not only could they not move to their spawning grounds, but their offspring were washed into sport fish infested reservoirs if the eggs managed to hatch in cold clear waters. Pikeminnow also do not reproduce until they are approximately four years old. Historically, it would not be necessary for pikeminnow to successfully reproduce each year for the species to survive, however, with the changes to the system, now annual reproductive success is critical, and this life history trait is inhibiting that success. Razorback sucker are the most distinct of the four big-river fishes. The razorback gets its name from the distinctive nuchal hump immediately behind its head that serves to help it stay positioned in the flows of the current. Razorback suckers are also one of the two species that have persisted in both the upper and lower basins. Adults grow to a size of three feet (one meter) and have been known to spawn over submerged gravel bars in the river and rocky shoals in lower basin reservoirs (USFWS, 2002b). Razorbacks have been significantly impacted by the http://wgu. mindedgeonline. com/content. php? cid=23905 3/12 3/7/2014 Western Governors University : RQBT5: Sample final paper #2 RECOVERY OF THE FOUR BIG-RIVER FISHES OF THE UPPER COLORADO RIVER BASIN 6 introduction of nonnative fishes as they specifically prey upon and compete with larval razorback suckers. Another threat to the razorback is the presence of other closely related suckers (both native and nonnative) that provide the possibility for hybridization. Humpback chub is the other species still found in both the upper and lower basins. As with the razorback sucker, the humpback chub has a prominent nuchal hump, but a hump as opposed to the sharp-edged shape of the razorback suckers ridge. Only six extant populations exist, all found well within deep, swift canyon reaches of main stem and large tributaries of the Colorado River basin (USFWS, 2002c). Bonytail, are arguably the most critically endangered, but least understood of the four fish species. Not listed as endangered until 1980, the bonytail is the only one of the four species to be primarily found only in the lower Colorado River basin once recovery was undertaken. Due to the lateness of their discovery, little is known of their preferred habitats outside of historical references (USFWS, 2002d). They were accorded their name due to the pencil-thin caudal peduncle, an adaptation to dealing with the high streamflows of the basin. The effort to delist the four big-river fish species of the upper Colorado River basin has been led by the Upper Colorado River Endangered Fish Recovery Program. The Program has relied upon flow manipulation, nonnative fish control and stocking of hatchery reared fish in their efforts to recovery these species. If these species are to be pulled from the brink of extinction, these are the means that must occur. Flow Manipulation Studies and adaptive management have indicated that flow manipulation is the most critical of the three main efforts that must occur to recover the endangered fish RECOVERY OF THE FOUR BIG-RIVER FISHES OF THE UPPER COLORADO RIVER BASIN 7 species in the upper Colorado River basin because water drives everything as it relates to fish. While the most important, flow manipulation is also the most difficult due to the number of laws affecting water rights and deliveries. The Colorado River Compact of 1922 is one of the most significant of those, detailing how water is divided between the upper and lower Colorado River basin and between the various states. Water is further divided between agriculture, municipal, and energy interests. The needs of the native fishes ultimately were an afterthought to the needs of the people. When it comes to the necessary manipulation of flows, this can create significant issues (water needs, flood control, etc). Thirteen years after the establishment of the Program, Muth et al. (2000) identified a series of recommendations aimed at altering the flows out of Flaming Gorge Reservoir, Green River, Wyoming for the benefit of the native fish, while meeting the needs of the communities. The recommendations are intended to create variation both within years as well as between years to create physiographic and geologic changes in the http://wgu. mindedgeonline. com/content. php? cid=23905 4/12 3/7/2014 Western Governors University : RQBT5: Sample final paper #2 structure of the habitat present for the endangered species. In addition to the flow recommendations on the Green River provided by Muth et al. (2000), McAda (2003) provided flow recommendations on the Colorado and Gunnison rivers. Similar to those on the Green River, the recommendations were based upon water year. As with Muth, McAda (2003) identified the effects that these flow recommendations would have on the hydrology of the river and ultimately the habitat required by the endangered fishes at different life stages. Modde and Keleher (2003) proposed similar recommendations for the Duchesne River, a tributary to the Green River in Utah, although the Duchesne River flows are intended only to provide benefit for adult Colorado pikeminnow. Sampling has shown RECOVERY OF THE FOUR BIG-RIVER FISHES OF THE UPPER COLORADO RIVER BASIN 8 that the Duchesne River is primarily used by in the spring and summer months, particularly by Colorado pikeminnow for temperature preference and to escape the high flows of the Green River while foraging. The move by the Program to create and implement the series of flow recommendations on every major river within the basin illustrates the importance of the effort to the endangered fishes as well as the willingness of the participants within the Program to work towards the recovery of these fish species. Flow manipulation will also have effects on the activities to reduce negative interactions between the endangered fish and nonnative fish species. Nonnative Removal The second major endeavor of that must happen for the endangered fishes of the Colorado River basin to be delisted is to reduce if not eliminate negative interactions between the native fish and nonnative species that have been introduced into the basin (USFWS 2002a, 2002b, 2002c, 2002d; Lentsch, Muth, Thompson, Hoskins, Crowl,1996; Tyus Stauffer, 1996). Research suggests that native fish recovery in the Colorado River basin can be achieved by managing the interactions with nonnative fish. Currently nonnative species comprise the majority of the fish biomass in the basin. The impacts that these nonnative species have can be observed as competition for habitat and food as well as predation on all life stages of the endangered fishes (Lentsch et al. , 1996). Efforts to reduce the impacts of these species included restricting stocking of nonnative fish, screening outlets from recreational reservoirs, and attempts to physically remove the nonnative fish from the rivers (Nesler, 1996; Martinez, 2004; Fuller, 2009; Bestgen et al. , 2009; Trammell et al. , 2005). The nonnative fishes that have become established within the basin can typically be separated into two different groups, recreational sport fish and RECOVERY OF THE FOUR BIG-RIVER FISHES OF THE UPPER COLORADO RIVER BASIN 9 non-sport fish introductions. The sport fish introductions have historically and typically been made by official agencies responsible for creating recreational fishing opportunities. http://wgu. mindedgeonline. com/content. php? cid=23905 5/12 3/7/2014 Western Governors University : RQBT5: Sample final paper #2 Following the closure of Flaming Gorge Dam in 1969, these agencies poisoned the Green River below the dam to remove the native fishes to allow for the establishment of a tailwater trout fishery. Not only did this activity directly affect the populations of native species, but it also affected populations long term through predation and competition with the nonnative species introduced post-poisoning. Additional nonnative sport fish such as largemouth bass and green sunfish have been introduced to the many reservoirs and offstream ponds within the Colorado River basin. Many of these facilities, when full, will release water and nonnative species into the rivers where they interact with native fish. Controlling these introductions has become more of a focus of the Program over the years. In 1996 three state wildlife agencies (Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming) and the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service completed a report (USFWS 1996) that outlined procedures for stocking nonnative fish species in the upper Colorado River basin. While these procedures did help to address some of the issues associated with nonnative fishes in the basin by restricting new species beyond what was already present, they did not address the escapement from reservoirs and ultimately establishment in the river. Martinez and Nibbelink (2004) were the first to evaluate the effects of the stocking plans, with specific emphasis within the State of Colorado. They determined that, unfortunately, the ability to track stocking events made it nearly impossible to determine exactly what effect the stocking regulations had on endangered fish recovery. Efforts in the interim have attempted to place nets or other screening mechanisms at outlets from reservoirs with varying results along the Colorado and Duchesne rivers (Martinez, 2004; RECOVERY OF THE FOUR BIG-RIVER FISHES OF THE UPPER COLORADO RIVER BASIN 10 USFWS, 2011). Martinez (2004) showed that in most cases (2 of 54 ponds) where largemouth bass were eliminated from a pond, they did not re-establish during the course of the study. However, they further determined that no evidence of their removal efforts could be observed in the river due to existing fish as well as the inability to effect removal on all ponds in the area. In the Duchesne River, a tributary to the Green River, a screen on Crystal Reservoir has prevented escapement of nonnative fishes (USFWS, 2011). In addition to managing the stocking and escapement of fish from reservoirs, the Program has placed significant time, effort and money into physically removing nonnative fishes from the river. Efforts to remove nonnative predatory fishes from the upper basin rivers have been varied from angling (Fuller, 2009) to electrofishing efforts (Hawkins, Walford, Hill, 2009). The efforts by Hawkins et al. (2009) to remove smallmouth bass from the Yampa River using electrofishing illustrated the benefit of removal activities. Hawkins et al. saw a decrease in smallmouth bass numbers that they attributed to their efforts, but in turn determined that immigration of fish into the area and reproduction likely reduced the overall effectiveness of the removal efforts. Fuller (2009) worked to remove nonnative channel catfish and smallmouth bass from the Yampa River through angling and electrofishing from 2001-2006. Angling efforts for channel catfish were discontinued after 2003 because smallmouth bass populations were increasing and electrofishing is much more effective in their capture and removal, a good http://wgu. mindedgeonline. com/content. php? cid=23905 6/12 3/7/2014 Western Governors University : RQBT5: Sample final paper #2 example of the ability of the research to adapt to management. Fuller (2009) indicated that despite removing 28,860 channel catfish and 8,243 smallmouth bass, the efforts were not going to achieve the goal of reducing these species RECOVERY OF THE FOUR BIG-RIVER FISHES OF THE UPPER COLORADO RIVER BASIN 11 populations to a point that they would not impact native fish recovery. However, while not reaching the goal, the efforts were trending in the proper direction, but would require more effort to achieve exploitation of the populations. Bestgen et al. (2009) provided an accompanying analysis of Fuller evaluating the native fish response to nonnative fish removal. These researchers determined that native fish populations did not respond to the removal of nonnative fish for a few different reasons. Bestgen et al. (2009) hypothesized that native fish numbers did not increase due to an insufficient number of nonnative fish being removed, changes in streamflows and water temperatures changed as a result of drought to conditions favoring the predatory fishes, and there may have been a lack of reproductively viable native fishes to respond to the decreased nonnative populations. Ultimately they determined that additional efforts in both fish removal and monitoring of native fish response will be necessary. While Fuller (2009) and Martinez (2004) were removing sport fish, Trammell et al. (2005) detailed the efforts over three years to remove the small-bodied nonnative minnows (red shiner, fathead minnow, and sand shiner) from the Green and Colorado rivers as part of one of these studies. While these species are ultimately much smaller than the natives, adults are present in nursery habitats and prey upon native fish larvae (young fish) as they drift into the nursery habitats. Nonnative fish in these areas outnumber natives sometimes thousands to one. Removal efforts were conducted through seining (pulling a net through the water) in backwater habitats where these species were predominant. The researchers found that while hundreds of thousands of these fish were removed, no reach scale benefits were found for native fish (Trammell et al. 2005). However, one of the beneficial items from this research is that it could be RECOVERY OF THE FOUR BIG-RIVER FISHES OF THE UPPER COLORADO RIVER BASIN 12 possible to remove nonnatives just prior to the arrival of drifting native larvae. This information coupled with the effects of temperatures on growth identified by Bestgen (2008), could allow native larvae to reach sizes where they will be safe from predation and thus survive at higher rates. In other areas of the basin, Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (2010) biologists, found the highest numbers of young Colorado pikeminnow since 1991, likely a result of nonnative removal efforts. The ability of all life stages of native fishes to survive encounters with nonnative species will be important to overall survival, but also important to how stocking of hatchery-reared fish is managed. Stocking of Hatchery Reared Fish http://wgu. mindedgeonline. com/content. php? cid=23905 7/12 3/7/2014 Western Governors University : RQBT5: Sample final paper #2 Research suggests that unless hatchery-reared fish are stocked into the river the endangered fishes of the upper Colorado River basin will not be recovered. Stocking of fish to enhance low population numbers has been occurring for endangered species recovery efforts for many years. Due to the long life spans of the endangered Colorado River fishes along with the fact that they do not reach reproductive maturity for a number of years, stocking has been important to initially stabilize populations and then to augment the wild populations. Currently the Program has propagation capabilities at four different facilities (Dexter National Fish Hatchery and Technology Center, 24 Road Hatchery, Wahweap State Fish Hatchery, and the John W. Mumma Fish Hatchery). These facilities provide thousands of individual fish to Program managers to enhance existing populations. In 2003, Nesler et al. compared the Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming state stocking plans for the four big river fishes of the Colorado River basin. During that evaluation, they determined that the state plans were inconsistent with regards to numbers to stock, age of adult fish, numbers of adult age classes, and number of years to stock. RECOVERY OF THE FOUR BIG-RIVER FISHES OF THE UPPER COLORADO RIVER BASIN 13 To solve these issues, the Program decided to integrate all of the stocking plans into one single plan. The final numbers identified in the integrated plan were designed to meet the goals of the individual species recovery plans (USFWS 2002a, 2002b, 2002c, 2002d). While hatcheries can consistently provide fish for stocking into the rivers, stocking will be most effective with continued evaluation of successes. As biologists monitor the status of populations, they will in turn discuss with hatcheries and others to determine the best uses of each years output of fish. Hatcheries each year attempt to produce enough fish to meet the stocking goals. Often, the monitoring efforts must not only look at simple hatchery production, but how that production is surviving in the river. The recovery goals for razorback sucker require that two separate populations represented by 5,800 individuals each will be necessary for downlisting or delisting to occur. Zelasko, Bestgen, White, (2010) evaluated the effectiveness of the stocking plan for razorback sucker. The authors determined that stocking success was increased by not stocking razorback sucker during the summer. They also determined that stocking larger fish into the river enhanced survival but recommended that a cost benefit analysis be conducted to determine if producing fewer larger fish is more expensive than producing more, smaller fish for introduction. A few excellent examples of stocking success have been found in the White River (Loomis, 2011) and also in the San Juan River. In the White River, razorback sucker larvae from previously stocked fish have been found in the river for the first time. In the San Juan River, stocking of both Colorado pikeminnow and razorback sucker have been successful enough that both species have reproduced and now there are http://wgu. mindedgeonline. com/content. php? cid=23905 8/12 3/7/2014 Western Governors University : RQBT5: Sample final paper #2 RECOVERY OF THE FOUR BIG-RIVER FISHES OF THE UPPER COLORADO RIVER BASIN 14 growing populations. Ultimately, continually refining the production from hatcheries has the best potential to significantly help in the recovery process. Conclusion In conclusion, since the western United States was settled, mankinds dependence on the Colorado River increased steadily. Water for agriculture, culinary, and municipal uses were removed from the river. In order for these needs to be fulfilled, large dams were constructed on the river, thereby altering the hydrologic characteristics of the river basin and impacting the native fishes that adapted to the extreme conditions of the basin. The regulation of the river created changes that reduced the high spring flows, lowered water temperatures, and created barriers to spawning migrations of the endangered fishes. The effects of these changes on the native fish were staggering. Nonnative fish were stocked into newly created reservoirs, where they escaped and were able to establish and thrive in the newly regulated river system. The flows released from reservoirs, cold and clear result in lower growth rates for native fish that make them more susceptible to predation by the nonnative fish, ultimately placing them in danger of extinction. These issues have pushed the four big river fishes of the Colorado River to the brink of extinction, requiring human intervention to insure that that extinction does not occur. The effort to recover the endangered fishes of the upper Colorado River basin has been led by the Upper Colorado River Endangered Fish Recovery Program (Program). Research conducted as part of the Program has shown that by focusing on the manipulation of flows from reservoirs, controlling nonnative fishes, and stocking of hatchery-reared native fishes will allow the fishes of the Colorado River to be de-listed RECOVERY OF THE FOUR BIG-RIVER FISHES OF THE UPPER COLORADO RIVER BASIN 15 (recovered). The manipulation of flows from dams will reverse some of the hydrologic impacts, re-creating portions the historic extremes of flow found in the basin, and enhance conditions that will likely favor the native fish more than the altered conditions. The establishment of nonnative fish throughout the Colorado River basin likely represents the largest threat to the endangered fishes. A diverse suite of nonnative fish, compete with and prey upon the native fish, reducing their ability to thrive. Efforts to control these fish, include management of future introductions, attempts to restrict escapement from reservoirs, and physical removal of these species. These efforts are yielding positive results, but gains are measured in small steps and require constant adaptive management. The use of hatcheries to provide large numbers of endangered fish is a time-tested means of stabilizing and increasing populations of fish. Stocking of the endangered fishes into the Colorado River basin has been ongoing for a number of years and fish stocked are now beginning to return and spawn, creating wild fish that will continue to enhance population numbers. All of these efforts must occur for these fishes to be de-listed. Currently, gains in the native populations are moving slowly towards downlisting and delisting as a result of the focused efforts to address flow manipulation, nonnative species control and stocking of hatchery-reared fishes. http://wgu. mindedgeonline. com/content. php? cid=23905 9/12 3/7/2014 Western Governors University : RQBT5: Sample final paper #2 RECOVERY OF THE FOUR BIG-RIVER FISHES OF THE UPPER COLORADO RIVER BASIN 16 References Bestgen, K. (2008). Effects of water temperature on growth of razorback sucker larvae. Western North American Naturalist 68 (1), 15–20. Bestgen, K. , Walford, C. , Hill, A. , Hawkins, J. (2009). Native fish response to removal of non-native predator fish in the Yampa River, Colorado. Final Report of the Larval Fish Laboratory to the Colorado River Recovery Implementation Program, Project number 115. Ft. Collins, Colorado. Carlson, C. , Muth R. (1989). The Colorado River: lifeline of the American southwest. Canadian Special Publication of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences (106:220–239). Carlson, C. , Muth R. (1993). Endangered species management. In C. Kohler and W. Hubert (Eds. ). Inland fisheries management in North America (pp. 355–381). American Fisheries Society, Bethesda, Maryland. Fuller, M. (2009). Lower Yampa River channel catfish and smallmouth bass control program, Colorado, (2001-2006). Final Report of the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service to the Upper Colorado River Endangered Fish Recovery Program, Vernal, Utah. Hawkins, J. , Walford, C. , Hill, A. (2009). Smallmouth bass control in the middle Yampa River, 2003–2007. Final report, Larval Fish Laboratory Contribution 154, Colorado State University, Fort Collins to Upper Colorado River Endangered Fish Recovery Program, U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Denver, Colorado. RECOVERY OF THE FOUR BIG-RIVER FISHES OF THE UPPER COLORADO RIVER BASIN 17 Lentsch, L. , Muth, R. , Thompson, P. , Hoskins, B. , and Crowl, T. (1996). Options for selective control of nonnative fishes in the upper Colorado River basin. Final Report. Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. Loomis, B. (2011). Biologists find young endangered fish in Utah river. Salt Lake Tribune, July 6, 2011. Martinez, A. (2004). An evaluation of nonnative fish control treatments in ponds along the Colorado and Gunnison rivers, 1996-2002. Final Report of the Colorado Division of Wildlife to the Upper Colorado River Endangered Fish Recovery Program, Grand Junction, Colorado. Martinez, P. , Nibbelink N. (2004). Colorado nonnative fish stocking regulation evaluation. Final report of Colorado Division of Wildlife and Wyoming Geographic Information Science Center to the Upper Colorado River Endangered Fish Recovery Program, Denver, Colorado. http://wgu. mindedgeonline. com/content. php? cid=23905 10/12 3/7/2014 Western Governors University : RQBT5: Sample final paper #2 McAda, C. (2003). Flow recommendations to benefit endangered fishes in the Colorado and Gunnison rivers. Final Report of the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service to the Upper Colorado River Recovery Implementation Program, Project Number 54, Grand Junction, Colorado. Modde, T. Keleher, C. (2003). Flow recommendations for the Duchesne River with a synopsis of information regarding endangered fish. Draft Final Report Submitted to the Upper Colorado River basin Endangered Fishes Recovery Implementation Program Project No. 84-1, Vernal, Utah. Muth, R. , Crist, L. , LaGory, K. , Hayse, J. , Bestgen, K. , Ryan, T. , Lyons, J. (2000). Flow and temperature recommendations for endangered fishes in the Green River downstream of Flaming Gorge Dam. Project FG-53, Upper Colorado River Endangered Fish Recovery Program, Lakewood, Colorado. RECOVERY OF THE FOUR BIG-RIVER FISHES OF THE UPPER COLORADO RIVER BASIN 18 Nesler, T. , Christopherson, K. , Hudson, J. , McAda, C. , Pfeifer, F. , Czapla, T. (2003). An integrated stocking plan for razorback sucker, bonytail, and Colorado pikeminnow for the upper Colorado River Endangered Fish Recovery Program. Final report of the Upper Colorado River Endangered Fish Recovery Program, Denver, Colorado. Ono, R. , Williams, J. , Wagner, A. (1983). Vanishing Fishes of North America. Stone Wall Press, Washington D. C. Quartarone, F. (1995). Historical accounts of upper Colorado River basin endangered fishes. Colorado Division of Wildlife, Denver. Trammell, M. , Meismer, S. , Speas, D. (2005). Nonnative cyprinid removal in the lower Green and Colorado rivers, Utah, UDWR publication (05–10), Salt Lake City, Utah. Tyus, H. , Saunders, F. (1996). Nonnative fishes in the upper Colorado River basin and a strategic plan for their control. Final report. Colorado

Activities and Ideas for Veterans Day Lessons

Activities and Ideas for Veterans Day Lessons Whether its peacetime or wartime, its always important to teach our students that Veterans Day means more than just a day off from school. Patriotism is a value that must be taught and modeled for our young students. By taking some time to give this sentiment even deeper meaning in your classroom around national holidays, you will be building the foundation for your young students to be proud and contributing citizens of our country. Veterans Day in the Classroom Here are a few ideas for introducing Veterans Day in the elementary school classroom: Ask the students what they think Veterans Day is for. Why is it important? What does the word veteran mean?Inquire if any students have any relatives or acquaintances that are veterans. Have they heard any first-person stories about wartime?If you live in a military town, give the students a chance to talk about any family members who are serving our country currently. Emphasize that they are heroes who will be honored during future Veterans Day celebrations after finishing their service.Share quality childrens literature as a starting point for a whole class discussion about the human experience of war. Possible titles include: Nim and the War Effort by Milly Lee (for ages 4-8)The Wall by Eve Bunting (for ages 4-8)Veterans Day by Mir Tamim Ansary (for ages 4-8)Behind the Blue and Gray: The Soldiers Life in the Civil War by Delia Ray (for ages 9-12)Have the students imagine that they are away at war. Perhaps they could each write a fictional letter back home, telling friends and fami ly what it is like on the battlefront. Or they could write a page of an imaginary diary about their war experiences. Focus on the lives of heroes from Americas wars. George Washington and other famous veterans can serve as a powerful inspiration to young children.Invite a local veteran to speak to your class. Check if any of your students are related to veterans or contact your local veterans group for names and numbers. Additional Information and Inspiration All About Veterans Day An in-depth look at how the holiday came to be and even a short discussion of how veterans are honored in other countries.Department of Veterans Affairs Includes a special section for educators with school activities and cool stuff for kids.Veterans Day A few lesson ideas that will help get your pedagogical juices flowing.Veterans Day Spotlight This focus on Veterans Day includes timelines of major American wars and many other interesting pieces of information.

7 Tips to Making the Most of Your 30sÂÂ

7 Tips to Making the Most of Your 30s   Your 20s were about playing hard- finding yourself and taking risks and discovering your path. Your 30s are about hard work and laying down foundations. But it’s easy to get swept up with work, relationships, and family life and forget the most important things. Here are a few tips to help you fend off a case of the regrets.1. Stay on MessageSuccess isn’t just measured in money and accumulated stuff. And choosing a career that seems safe and lucrative now can lead to feelings of meaninglessness later. You’ve spent your 20s figuring out who you are. Now spend your 30s developing your purpose, and make following that purpose your number one obsession. It will get you out of the rat race and onto your own course, with your own personal finish line to sprint towards.2. Set Yourself UpBig spender? The bad habits you picked up in your 20s are carrying over- maybe even getting worse now that you’re making a bit more money. Rather than spending all of your surplus income on luxuries and treats, remember that every dollar you save now can grow and actually earn you more security later on.3. Make MemoriesJust because these are your primo working years doesn’t mean you should be working all the time. Make sure you carve out space in your schedule for maintaining important relationships with your family and friends. Keeping loved ones close can be very fulfilling and can even make you more productive.4. Pay Back Your ParentsDon’t take your biggest fans for granted. In building a life for yourself, it’s easy to lose track of time. Don’t forget, however, that your parents aren’t getting any younger, and they won’t be around forever. Make sure you carve out a bit of time to spend with them.5. Stay HealthyYou can’t get away with the bad habits or the junk food of your 20s anymore. Exercise, eat right, limit stress, and keep control of your vices. Set yourself up for success- and have the energy to enj oy it!6. Don’t Wait Until You’re ReadyThere’s never a perfect time to start a family, and no one is ever totally prepared. Don’t wait until you feel perfectly ready to have a child, or you’ll be waiting forever and one day it will be too late.7. Have FunDon’t spend the early part of your adulthood working too much and chasing money. Life is meant to be shared and enjoyed. Go on dates with your partner, start a family, go on trips, spend time with your friends. You might have all the money in the world, but it won’t be worth a thing if you are too miserable to enjoy it.The 7 Biggest Career and Life Mistakes You Can Make in Your 30s

Evidence Based Monthly Report Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Evidence Based Monthly Report - Essay Example The primary stakeholders of the program will be the students of Pine Ridge Middle School. Apparently noted, a huge figure of students is unable to use various facilities of Google in the context of education. Thus, we desire to improve the ability of the students towards using Google more efficiently. The other important stakeholders of the program will be the librarians and the teachers. The program will also help them to better manage the library resources and the procedure of information sharing. The program ‘Getting the Most out of Google’ will play an imperative role in enhancing the learning and literacy level of the students. Through this program, it is anticipated that students can access their required books or specific chapters of books within the campus. It is worth mentioning that ‘Getting the Most out of Google’ program will not only help the students in searching books, but will also prove to be quite useful for searching various images from the university library on varied subjects of interests (University of New England, â€Å"Getting the Most out of Google†). One of the key services of ‘Getting the Most out of Google’ program will be interlibrary services. Through this service, students can borrow books, articles and other educational resources provided by Pine Ridge Middle School. The other interlibrary service, which will be provided by the above discussed program include viewing articles as well as books easily. Students can always view variety of articles, books and educational resources that will certainly enhance their ability to learn and also literacy level at large. Furthermore, the students of Pine Ridge Middle School can also place request for a specific article. Apart from these, students can also have a discussion with the librarians regarding any information of books or reading materials. The interlibrary

Liberal Art Studies Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Liberal Art Studies - Essay Example In a professional setting, resisting the majority does not have the dramatic consequences that resisting the State does because the State is capable of punishing a person more severely. However, there can be unwanted consequences, such as being fired, for going against the majority rule of a corporation. Many positive results have come from resisting the majority and this has been proven in the professional realm as well. This is especially true when the truth and other creative pursuits are repressed and discouraged by the majority. It would definitely seem that Thoreau’s ideas would be easier to implement in a professional setting. However, resisting in both situations can bring about punishment. A corporation does indeed have a conscious as long as conscientious people are running the particular corporation. It is important that those running a corporation do not suppress ideas and opinions or mistreat employees, although this does happen frequently in the business world. C orporations should, as Thoreau believes, employ â€Å"conscientious men† that act accordingly to make sure that corporation acts in an ethical manner. Also, as Thoreau states, corporations (as well as the government) should â€Å"encourage its citizens (workers) to be on alert to point out its faults† (1849).

Environmental assessment Essay Example for Free

Environmental assessment Essay This paper has been written to analyze in-depth, the pollution, covering air, water, chemicals, and other such related issues in the United States. Further, I would also be developing an environmental health teaching plan to address one of these issues. Environmental issues are becoming very prevalent in today’s world. The question is why the environment and its concerns are becoming more prevalent, important and famous now. For this, we will need to look at the history. For decades we have neglected this seemingly dangerous issue due to which it has been going unnoticed. The reason we never before paid heed to this concern or issue is because this issue’s repercussions were not evident in the previous years. As no such notice regarding this issue was taken into consideration, it could not even be rectified. (Abel McConnell, 2007). However, with the advent of global warming and other factors such as acid rain, prevalence of carbon dioxide and the ever increasing penetration of green house gases has put many lives at stake making many people fear that this world will not continue to exist or survive for more than 10 years from now on that means that by 2018 this world will have used most of the resources and this is basically due to the wastages of resources available to us. The basic thing that we have to consider here is to think hard about the issue as to how we can prevent our precious resources from depletion, disappearance and from vanishing. To answer this question we can simply say that we should use our resources optimally. (Kemp, 2007). It is believed that the next war that would be held would be for the sole purpose of resources. The 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Centre highlights the hidden objective of the resources. Although this act would be illegal and an immoral thing or practice, therefore many countries other than the one going for the war would object to this act for spoiling the world peace. U. S is a super power of the world and it is always trying to get hold of the resources. They are doing this by capturing resources, snatching them and raiding the countries that have abundant of these resources such as O. P. E. C countries and countries with no or minimal problems of the water shortage or the countries thave abundant of resources like the crude oil, natural coal and the natural gas. (Harris 2004). The reason why some countries have been the target of the United States is because although these countries might have some kinds of resources, however they do not have any resources that can be used to combat the threat or the attack coming from the super power such as the US and countries that are the allies of the U. S. such as European Union that also includes Turkey. Furthermore, these countries have a very weak defence and military, but the most important two factors that are responsible for their vulnerability are mentioned below. †¢ Lack of Decisive and Prowess Leadership. †¢ Ignorance to the current affairs and the intelligence. This is one of the major problems that might create huge problems for the countries US has their eyes on. With all the afore mentioned details to the problem, now let us go deeper in to the affects of the ignorance this problem environment exploitation that is also supported by the fact that he next war expected to take place is on the resources. The mere resources which were once used with out any fear of them being depleted once are now being depleted all because of the lack of the knowledge and the lack of the far sightedness of the problem. Now this problem has become very prominent and inevitable. The depletion of resources is not a small problem but it is vice versa. It is a very big problem that can greatly affect our future generations and if this problem goes unsolved today then our generations will have no future or to put it more realistically our future generation is going to be at the mercy of an unsafe future with lots of pollutants in the air. Therefore, if this problem goes unrectified then its repercussions can be innumerable, our future generation is at stake and now is definitely the time to act upon. (Horner, 2007). The United States of America, in past many years have taken initiative to contribute towards environment uplift and betterment of the environment. Environmental hazards do not have any boundary. The boundaries separating the countries subordinate to environmental impacts. Global warming, green house gases, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide penetration know no boundary and their impact is much due to which there is a dire need now is to prevent exposure to these hazards. However, the US cannot alone can not take any initiative to combat this seemingly deadly hazard and so it requires input and the cumulative effort to prevent this penetration in to our lives and body but as the US is one of the major super powers of the world, it must take the initiative. Furthermore, US is well equipped with resources and can lead the world to save the environment. (Houghton, 2004). US has repeatedly been warned of the repercussions of the gases from chimneys that their factories and companies are producing and how their industrial wastage is discarded. Furthermore, US have broken many protocols and pacts on this regard and continue to exploit environment. US can also be given the name of one of the world‘s biggest pollutants. The environments can also affect international marketing decisions and the planning system of the countries. This is because two different states have two different governments and thus having different polices and laws. Therefore, the marketing decisions that are taken in a country are different from each other according to the social, economic and political environment that exists in the country. (Kitchen Schultz, 2000). Reference Abel,D. C. McConnell,R. L. (2007). Environmental Issues: An Introduction to Sustainability. 3rd Edn. Prentice Hall, Paperback. Horner,C. C. (2007). The Politically Incorrect Guide to Global Warming and Environmentalism. Regnery Publishing, Inc. , Paperback. Kemp,D. D. (2007). Exploring Environmental Issues (Kindle Edition). 1st Edn. Taylor Francis. Kitchen,P. Schultz,D. (2000). Communicating Globally: An Integrated Marketing Approach. London, Macmillan Business. Scorecard. (n. d. ). More Facts on Pollution. January 3rd, 2009. Retrieved from: http://www. scorecard. org/

Death of a Salesman vs The Simpsons :: essays papers

Death of a Salesman vs The Simpsons Each of the characters in "death of a Salesman" can be compared in some way to a character in the Simpsons. Linda Loman has a lot in common with Marge Simpson. Both love their families very much and are always the first to defend their husband's actions. Each wife is unappreciated and and does not receive much respect from her family. They try to instill good values onto their children: Marge reprimands Bart for stealing, and Linda tells Willy not to encourage the boys to steal. They attempt to steer the boys away from their fathers' influence, since Willy and Homer are not always the best role models. An example is when homer tells Marge "don't discourage the boy! Weaseling out of things is important to learn. It's what separates us from the animals! Except the weasel." Biff (before he find's himself) is a lot like Bart. The two are always getting into some kind of trouble; Biff for stealing, while Bart is constantly wreaking havoc in the school. Biff is unable to hold down a job, and Bart cannot be productive at school. Both lie and cheat their way through life. Charley can be compared to Lenny as both are friends of the protagonist and care about his welfare. Charley aids Willy with his financial needs, giving him money and offering him a job. Lenny helps Homer in the nuclear plant, always covering for him and giving advice. Although he is not an evil monster, Howard's character resembles that of Monty Burns. They are both business men, more concerned about money than people. Howard does not care about Willy; he fires him after he had worked for the company for so long. Mr. Burns does not even know who homer is even though they've often had a chance to interact. Bernard, Biff's brainy friend, is similar to Milhouse, Bart's geeky friend. Each one is teased about their appearance; Bernard is called an anemic by Willy, and Milhouse is called a geek by pretty much everyone. Bernard used to idolize Biff, he was proud to be carrying his elbow pads. Milhouse is also a sidekick to Bart. He knows his job is to stay hidden while Bart wows everybody with his talents.

Desert Economy Struggling To Stay Afloat Essay

When America’s economy fell into a recession in 2008, it took down mexico along with it. America is by far the largest buyer of Mexican products, last year alone doing $400 billion in business. The Economist article, â€Å"Making The Desert Bloom,† brings to light the condition that Mexico’s economy is currently in, restricted by cartels, monopolies and its unfortunate situation with America. When stocks plummeted and jobs were lost in america, Mexico’s economy as a whole fell by 6.1%, the northern state of Coahuila getting hit the worst with a drop of 12.3%. Until the recession, Mexico was on schedule to have a reasonable decade but with personal income growth now at only 0.6% , some of the worst in the world, it doesn’t look promising. Mexico’s unemployment rate peaked at 6.4% in 2009 and is only slowly getting better. The foundation of Mexico’s economy is based on its exports. With americans share of Mexico’s exports falling from 89% to 78% and expecting to get worse, mexico has a problem on their hands. At the beginning of the decade, Mexico claimed the largest Latin American economy but since has been over taken by brazil with a GDP grow to more then 2 times that of Mexico’s. In 2010, the murder rate was 17 out of every 100,000 people, expected to cause a 1% drop in Mexico’s annual growth rate. Foreign direct investment has fall from $30 billion to just half that over the last 5 years. With so many problems limiting Mexico’s potential, the country needs to get everything in order to to revive itself from the current recession. Mexico has been hit by the steepest recession of any latin american country. A recession can be explained by a significant decline in activity across the economy effecting in industrial production, employment, income and trade. Between 2008 and 2009, 700,000 jobs were lost in Mexico. In certain parts, 4 in 10 business shut down. The head of economic planning in Mexico’s fiancee ministry, Miguel Messmacher, has seen a major shift in the direction of exports out of his country. Sales to latin America and asia are growing twice as fast as those to America. Mexico’s largest export is the automotive industry, although its exports to America make up only 65%. Eduardo soils head of the industry’s national association thinks this is a good sign because it always Mexico to establish markets in other countries, opening up more opportunities. His goal is to get it down to 50%. Others argue that Mexico can not become a â€Å"commodity exporter.† just because countries like china have a demand for soy beans, doesn’t mean that Mexico should start growing and export this product. They believe the economic future still lies in America’s economy. They way out of the recession is to gain a bigger piece of America’s slowly growing economy.

Case Study Report Essay

INTRODUCTION The entrepreneur in the case study was Alison Barnard. She is very interested in fashion and used the skills she learned while attending Babson’s business school to start her own retail store, which is focusing perfect-fitting pair of jeans on women. Barnard started her stores, 26 years old, which is located in Boston’s newest neighborhood, the North End, with more than 30 brands of jeans in order to accommodate many body look of her customers. When Barnard isn’t at her flagship store helping women find their perfect fit, she’s down the street at Twilight, her newest store, opened in March 2006 and specializes in both formal and casual dresses. THE PROBLEMS IN BUSINESS AND THEIR CAUSES The analysis of scalability of that business guided to the discussion of challenges and limitations. The first challenge that Alison faces is the maintenance of the store. The limitations that she faces was lack of appropriate employees, opportunity for growth and lack of timing to upgrade her managing skills. It will make her business progress to be slow and loss of customers by unable to find the right jeans. Alison has made a mistake by signing the lease prior to have the profit without analyze the outcome. In my opinion, Alison loosed her trust with the fact that she actually can earn the money to invest in her business. What she worried about was, someone else will steal her ideas if she wastes a lot of time by thinking the outcome and took the risk. The implications on growth lie within finding personnel that fit Alison’s requirements and finding a management strategy that would make the business more scalable. In my opinion, the right marketing strategy and making the store more independent are key success factors for â€Å"In.jean.ious†. POSSIBLE SOLUTION By making a good business strategy can help her to find a good financial, highly experience workers and strategic location which can help her to open her business extensively. Besides that, Alison should focus on how to make her store more or less independent from her. She needs to be focusing on her  management strategy, her financing and the opportunity for growth. In my opinion, the type of her business she has needs an everyday conservation and doing actions without thinking. RECOMMENDATION In my opinion, Alison should be more aware on her business whereby applying the ‘red hat’ in Edward de Bono’s theories. This will help her to prevent her shops item from being stolen by thief. Besides that, Alison needs to be balance in her information gathering, decision making and lifestyle from the theories of Myers Briggs. By balancing four psychological preferences, she will be able to make a good decision, gather more information before starting her business, and catch up with the latest trends for her clothing.

Informative Essay Writing

Informative Essay Writing Informative Essay Writing Informative Essay Writing: How to Deal with Informative essay writing is a kind of writing, which aims to inform a reader about some specific matter with which he or she is not acquainted yet. While writing your informative essays you have to remember that your task is just to inform the readers objectively about some matter, without evaluating it or without inserting your own point of view at the subject. You have to be impartial during your informative essay writing: Writing Good Informative Essay In order to write good informative essays you have to ask yourself five journalistic questions before any word of informative essay writing. These journalistic questions help you to look at the problem from all the possible angles and to reveal the topic for 100 percent. If you are not acquainted with these journalistic questions, it is a high time for you to correct this mistake. Thus, the journalistic questions are as follow: Who? What? When? Where? Why? If you answer to all of them in your informative essay writing, you will manage to write excellent informative essays. Make these very journalistic questions to be a structure for your informative essay writing and you will present informative essays, which meet all the requirements from them and get the highest grade for your labour. Educate Your Readers Through Informative Essay While being engaged into informative essay writing, do not forget that your mission is to educate your readers somehow by presenting some interesting facts. That is why while dealing with the topic in your informative essay writing, remember that far not everyone is already acquainted with the matter of your informative essays. Try to explain the whole deepness of problem you are dealing with in your informative essay writing, before going into details and specifications in order the readers to be able to understand everything you write. Key Points To Include These are the main points your informative essay writing should reveal, do not neglect any of them as they will really help you to achieve a great result in your informative essay writing: explain something the majority of readers are not acquainted with; include the latest approaches to the topic you are dealing with in your informative essay writing; present all the existing approaches at the subject; present the problem of informative essays in general and after that fall into details; present several opposing points of view; cause-effect relations should be also analyzed within your informative essay writing. teach your audience how to use the knowledge it has received from you informative essay writing. Read more: Editing Essay Service Deforestation Essay Professional Editing Service Essay Example on Cause of Crime Stress Management Essay

A Review Of The Enron Code Of Ethics

A Review Of The Enron Code Of Ethics Enron Introduction The Enron code of ethics was well detailed, and all the provisions of the code of ethics were in line with the policies of the company. According to Sims and Brinkmann (2003), Enron policies together with the code of ethics fostered the company reputation of being fair and honest. The company tried to safeguard the interests of its customers by ensuring that it provides the best more than their competitors. The code of ethics specified that all the company employees should not conduct themselves in any manner that would jeopardize the best interest of the company. Moreover, the employees were not supposed to engage in any business that would suggest competition with the Enron. Through the above policies, the company gave room for failure instead of bringing in a perceived success. The policies indirectly forced the top executives as well as the junior employees to engage in unethical behaviors that later made the company failed ethically and subsequently financially. Enron is Synonymous with Ethical Failure Given that Enron’s code of ethics was inclined towards the good ethical conduct of all its cooperate employees, it failed and was declared bankrupt in 2001 (Fusaro and Miller, 2002). The failure of the Enron can be attributed to the failure of the executive and the unethical behavior within the company. The working conditions were and condescension where competition and financial goals were over emphasized. The profit orientation of Enron compelled it to always emphasize on policies that would see the generation of the benefits by all means. The employees were subjected to a rating system whereby 20 percent of the employees were supposed to be rated below the minimum requirements and fired (Marianne, 2009). Enron applied the rating system with a hope of encouraging the employees to work extra harder and avoid low ratings, but the system harmed Enron contrary to the expectations of the management. The continuous evaluation of the employees for performance together with the culture of competition lead to deception. The strict evaluation process compelled the employees to engage in cheating on their work. They were always nervous and feared to lose their jobs due to underperformance. Thus, they resorted to unethical means of surviving for a longer period within the company, for instance, they cheated about their progress even if they knew that things were not all that good. None of the employees felt the shame of cheating since it was becoming a culture. Those who stood by what was right was regarded odd by the cheating employees. Besides cheating, the employees covered errors and could not report errors of their colleges since each of them was entangled in his or her line of duty and focused only their achievements in the places of work. According to Katzenbach (2015), employees in a company help each other by asking and answering questions. However, the competitive environment in the Enron compelled the employees to avoid asking questions since they considered it humiliating. Moreover, they did not like helping each to avoid competition and avoided mentioning their doubts and seeking for clarifications. Moreover, Enron ensured that all its employees did not engage with outside parties that could out-compete Enron in the market. Thus, the employees were not allowed to express any doubts about the financial status and the plans of the company. Olson, a company analyst, lost his job because Olson advised his client not to invest in the company due to the unpredictable status of the business (Marianne, 2009). Conclusion Conclusively, the evil culture in the Enron company that was created by selfish company executives led to the fall of Enron. Both the officials and the employees engaged in unethical practices and they ended up contributing to the downfall of the Company.

English essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 3

English - Essay Example ifies a loss of contact with realism, as well as an overestimation of a person’s own capabilities or competence, especially when the individual displaying it is in a position of authority or power (Moore 34). To consider whether hubris equals megalomania, it is vital to look into the traits of the two, which this paper found to be extremely similar. Individuals who suffer from these two defects have a clear self-focus in interpersonal relations. They also have a problem in sustaining gratifying relationships. Another trait of the two is that people lack emotional awareness (Moore 67). Other traits include trouble with sympathy, problems differentiating the self from others, reaction to any abuse or imagined abuse, weakness to shame instead of guilt, proud body language and obsequiousness towards individuals who affirm and admire them. People who suffer from these two defects also detest individuals who do not like them. They use other individuals without bearing in mind the cost of doing so. They pretend to be more significant than they, in reality, are. They brag (cleverly but tirelessly) and overstress their achievements, arguing to be "skilled" in a lot of things. Finally, individuals who suffer from these defects do not view or observe the world from the perception of other individuals in that they are mostly denial of gratitude and remorse (Emmons 291). Hubris and megalomania might exist in each and every individual. Critics argue that the two are a unique state from which an individual develops the love or affection object. Shelley (34) argues that healthy hubris or megalomania is a vital element of normal growth. According to Shelley (56), the affection of the parents for their children and their mind-set toward their child could be perceived as a reproduction and revival of their own hubris or megalomania. The child has a power of deliberation; the parents arouse that emotion since, in their children, they observe the things, which they have never

Management leadership and performance for new products Dissertation

Management leadership and performance for new products - Dissertation Example Based on this research it is through accountable leadership that the decisions on which technological advances are best to adopt in order to ensure improved production are formulated. However leaders should be encouraged to also seek the suggestions of their subjects as they could also be of help. The management of Clydesdale bank has to undertake a market analysis with which they can be able to establish their target group hence market segmentation. Counterfactual experiments are always a challenge for those who continue to practice them and they end up with complicated results. This can be illustrated in a nation that has been dominated by the need for balance of power to the extent that they do not consider alternative perspectives. Despite the fact that some of them go ahead to practice the issue of power transition, they still find themselves experiencing some of the past power stylistics which they thought would change through the transition process. This is attributed to the b elief that, equal distribution of power in a country is a driving force to the international politics. Economic wealth on the other hand, is viewed as a major source of power for many countries that can now be grouped as the developed nations. This is because, for a long period of time they have been able to immerse wealth that enables them to be independent. Through operations management, the organizational structure ensures that there is a flexible relationship between production and the amount of consumption by the consumers. Inputs should at the end of the day be processed into outputs. There has to be a frequent supply of labour to ensure consistency in production. The resources that are acquired have to be used skillfully in order to obtain maximum profit. Through operations the bank should be able to come up with social networks so as to facilitate acquisition of skills from other organizations. This encourages the process of induction in the companies in their endeavor to in crease productivity (Sang-hun 2010, p. 6).

Case study about John F kennedy and the bay of pigs , cuban missile

About John F kennedy and the bay of pigs , cuban missile crisis - Case Study Example However, this president could later on be seen as living up to the policies of his predecessor; Eisenhower. This was clearly evident when he decided to adopt the Bay of Pigs Invasion and gave a go head to his military without giving it much thought. President J. F Kennedy became a leader during the era of nuclear war. He believed that no nation could confidently win a nuclear war. According to Kennedy, the main cause of war and civil strife in the 20th century was Miscalculations. He, therefore, with the counsel of his Intelligence agency, designed and employed a military strategy that was known as the Flexible Response. This strategy was put in place with the anticipation that it would reduce such wars that result from miscalculations. Even though J. F Kennedy had been regarded by many as one of the most flexible and rational presidents of the United States, there had been criticism that he was not as prudent as Eisenhower and, had made the USA even worse. However, these arguments are subjects of a heated debate as there are no diplomatic records on this topic2. By the time Kennedy came to power, the Soviet Union had made several steps ahead of the US in the space exploration. The Soviet had already acquired considerable skills in nuclear war and was becoming a threat to the US, which was at that time very vulnerable to the missile attacks. Soviet Prime Minister, Nikita Khrushchev, in one of the speeches, had announced that their nation was ready for any liberal war3. The Bay of Pigs invasion was a planned attack on Cuba by the American Central Intelligence Force. It was during the time when Cuban government, under the leadership of Fidel Castro, was experiencing defection from the government officials and the citizens4. United States of America, therefore, decided to take advantage of this situation and arranged to attack Fidel in disguise of the defectors. The invasion had been planned before President Kennedy took over from Eisenhower.

The Distributional And Encompassing Coalitions Politics Essay

The Distributional And Encompassing Coalitions Politics Essay Introduction In our term paper we would like to analyze some well-known theories and also combine them with real life examples to have a comprehensive overview of whether the theories are applicable to real life and how accurate they are. For the theme of our paper we decided for the topic interest groups. Based on this topic, we further decided to use Mancur Olsons theory of special interest groups, which he precisely described in his famous book The Rise and Decline of Nations. In the first part of our paper we will mainly focus on providing general information and insights into the Olsons theory and we will also take a general look at the framework of the car lobby itself. In the following part of our paper we will discuss the ex-ante predictions regarding the success or failure when it comes to specifically selected lobby groups, based on Olsons theory as well. The final part offers a brief introduction to the particular car lobby group ACEA and also analyses the actions and influence of the lobby group. The question whether the theory is consistent with our real life example is broadly discussed and advocated as well. 1. Introduction to the Theory In this chapter we will present the theory we will use in order to conduct our case study on the influence and impact of special interest groups on government decisions. We define special interest groups as a coalition of individuals or representatives trying to gain influence on the political environment. In order to have a collective impact on a particular matter they develop access strategies to reach the decisive officials and legislators. Precisely, we will set a framework of a social coalition theory based on Mancur Olsons theory of special interest groups and their collective action in pursuing a common goal, published in his book The Rise and Decline of Nations. We will then apply this framework on the car lobby. The car lobby is considered to have strong internal connections to political officials as they are equipped with a vast number of resources and backed by the politically crucial automotive industry. We will focus on the European Automobile Manufacturers association (ACEA), which is one of the most important car lobbies in the European Union. ACEA is a representative association of the automotive industry with great impact on decisions made in Brussels. It reflects the interest of the car industry in most European Countries. We will analyze its access and impact strategies on EU institutions and their influence on democratic decision procedures. Furthermore we examine how their actions affect the total soci ety. In order to introduce Olsons theory of special interest groups, it is essential to know the underlying assumptions and problems Olson describes. Given Olsons assumption of rationality of individual behaviour, a social group may fail to achieve collective action. That is, that the group may fail to achieve its common goal. In our case it would mean the group is not able to have an influence on political decisions. To some extent it is individually rational to not take part and contribute in the groups action as it involves personal costs. It is rather rational and self-interest maximizing to withdraw from the action but to benefit from the groups outcome. Clearly, if every individual in that group is assumed to be rational the groups goal would not be achieved. Especially groups with increasing size are likely to face problems of collective action (free-riding) as group members can hardly be monitored in their individual contribution and not be excluded from group benefits. Small groups in contrast, consisting of individuals with homogenous preferences are likely to achieve a common interest. According to Olson, the presence of selective incentives, i.e. frequent interactions within the group, the ability to monitor, punish and reward individual behaviour increases the likelihood of collaboration and overcoming the collective action problem. Therefore, groups with relatively smaller size are privileged to groups larger in size. Although not a particular problem under examination in this case study it is important to mention the collective action problem. It is the underlying obstacle of a groups formation and has to be overcome in order to have an influence on decisions. However, besides overcoming the collective action problem, it is of special interest for us to examine and analyze how interest groups, here applied to the ACEA, gain access and increase impact on political decision procedures and the societies welfare as a whole. 2. Types of Coalitions 2.1. Distributional and Encompassing Coalitions According to Olson, the degree of influence of interest groups and as a result the impact on the societies welfare depends on the type of coalition in existence. He introduces the concept of coalitions called distributional coalitions and encompassing coalitions. Both types of coalition try to gain access to the political environment. In the valuation part of a real life example of an ACEA action we will evaluate to which coalition the ACEA may belong to in order to conduct a proper analysis of their influence and especially about their impact on the society. Distributional coalitions are special interest groups that only represent interests of a small number of firms. The representatives of these groups try to maintain and strengthen the companies market position by supporting protectionist and even monopolistic legislation procedures. Such protectionist measures could be tariffs, taxes or non tariff barriers imposed on market competitors which negatively affect an efficient allocation of recourses and may support inefficient economic segments. This type of interest group will heavily oppose technological progress as it might be harmful to its own position. Thus, the outcome of such penetration of political decisions is disadvantageous from a societies point of view. Successfully influenced legislation will be heavy in favour of a small number of individuals that only make a fraction of the society. But the society as a whole will face a decrease in economic output due to a lack of technological progress and even stagnate over a longer period of time. Distributional coalitions occur especially in the presence of politically stable democracies. They will form in huge numbers all across the society and will grow in size over time. Therefore, they will accumulate power and increase their degree of influence and access on political decision making. With an increasing number of distributional coalitions the political environment will be distorted and a social welfare maximizing outcome of political decisions is highly unlikely. Clearly, these coalitions try to redistribute wealth and income within the interest group leaving the society worse off, as the total welfare decreases. On the other hand, the counterpart of distributional coalitions is encompassing coalitions. The nature of encompassing coalitions is that they do not restrict their actions to the interests of a small number of individuals or firms but rather reflect the interests of the broader society. According to Olson, encompassing coalitions influence political decisions in a way that is beneficial to the society. Since their interests correspond with the broader interests of the society, comprehensive bargaining about legislation will lead to efficient political outcomes (Rosser, 2007). In contrast to distributional coalitions, encompassing coalitions foster technological progress and economic growth. Thus, their actions and impact on political decisions increase the welfare of the whole society. In conclusion of the theory part, based on Olsons special interest group theory, we defined two types of coalitions. Both coalitions, distributional and encompassing, try to gain access and impact on legislation procedures. Distributional coalitions represent the interest of a small number of individuals and rather oppose technological progress, hence, slow down economic growth. Encompassing coalitions reflect the interest of the broader society, hence; rather increase the welfare of the society. 3. Ex-ante predictions 3.1. Olsons framework on EU car lobby Considering the previous definitions and analysis on Olsons developed theory about the influence of interest groups on different realities and its impact in governmental decisions, as well as, the defined framework of the EU car lobbying which is mainly led by ACEA. It is now the purpose of this section to predict the outcome of ACEA actions in the EU political environment based on the theory. In order to achieve our purpose we might first set up some considerations on our previous analysis. First of all, we have to bear in mind that it was never Olsons goal to study the impact of particular organizations or a group. It was, instead, an attempt to highlight the role played by several interest groups in the economic development of a country as a whole. Therefore he did not trail a specific framework which would be possible to apply to a particular organization or group, although his work is accurate enough to study the outcome of any lobbying activity in its broader sense. Focusing now on the car lobbying role, we might also underline some important features of this organization regarding its history, experience, resources and internal decision-making process, some of them already described before. These features might influence the outcome of its actions under the analysis of Olsons model. When referring to automobile industry we immediately link it with a high level of complexity and regulation. Here we might wonder if that is the result of political and social evolution itself or if it may be connected with some kind of external force (interest group coalition) which influences the market outcome. It is our aim now to understand whether or not there are conditions in the car industry to the establishment of a coalition which is strong enough to influence political decisions on related matters. 3.2. Car industry and interest groups coalitions Olson identified a main requirement, to the appearance of successful interest groups: the maturity level of a certain industry. When considering this point we easily realize that automobile manufactures and all its stakeholders have been interacting for long enough to derive some successful coalition actions. Olson supported this direct relation between industry maturity and the success of interest groups action with some empirical evidence on US market. For that reason we are lead to undertake the US market as a benchmark (due to several similarities with EU system) and then conclude that it might also be the case that car industry is in a well-developed position to set off some thriving coalitions. Apart from industry maturity, so far we dont have enough information which leads us to conclude if ACEA is a distributional coalition or an encompassing one. In order to do so, we have to analyse some of the car industry background. As any other market operating industry, companies withi n the car industry can be considered rational. Therefore they will be profit-maximizers. If so, an association like ACEA, which is willing to increase companies benefits, might above all care about the impact of certain decisions for companies and not really be concerned about the outcome for society as a whole. Unless we argue that an increase in society surplus due to certain decisions will increase companies benefits. We have found the first reason why we should look at ACEA as a distributional coalition as defined in the previous section. It is also true that there are better conditions for an interest group coalition to arise and to be successful in a stable economy. Despite that, it works even better in a democracy where the de facto political power is closer to a centrist orientation rather than the extremes of laissez-faire or a socialist command. It is actually the case of the European Union. Another argument which may be crucial in our approach is that it is more likely that some groups goals prevail when the opposition, even if it exists, is not sufficiently strong to offset others damage, which will make them suffer in silence. Altogether it would lead us to conclude that ACEA, as the major car lobbying player, is closer to be a distributional coalition rather than an encompassing one. Even though it is not our main focus here, we might also refer the adoption of this framework is not consensual in the field. Some experts would be against what we are arguing here, mostly because it is not guaranteed that car lobbying activities have only negative effects in societys view. At this point it is fair to mention that some might consider lobbying activities as a way to undertake more openness and competitiveness in the political system which would lead to more transparency in EU (Schendelen, 2002). We could also support this idea in the sense that lobbyists bring out facts about political matters mainly through the media. The reason to mention this argument here, is to ensure that we do not exclude the possibility of some positive effects in further analysis of the actual ACEA activity. Bringing together our reasoning we might be in a position to set up some predicted impact ACEA may have towards political decisions in EU. This is our goal for the next subsection. 3.3. Expected ACEA impact In pursuing our attempt to apply Olsons framework to car lobbying in the EU, it seems logical to argue that car lobbying actions might be strong enough to influence political decisions on this field. Every coalition which may arise within this market segment (e.g.: ACEA) will then be the reason for time-consuming political decisions throughout crowded agendas and bargaining tables. It is expected that ACEA will achieve that by finding some means of communicating directly with EU representatives. That kind of action is also likely to involve high amounts of money due to the necessity of qualified people who work with complex regulation and try to persuade politics. For that reason ACEA will only be successful if it is able to aggregate high amounts of contributions from the biggest companies in the industry. If it happens to be so, this pressure would somehow be able to slow down societys ability to move towards more efficient technologies and to reallocate resources (e.g.: alternatives to oil market or more efficient energy-using technologies, however we will have some deeper analysis into these results in the next section). Once big enough, this distributional coalition could have its well-noticeable impact in the rate of economic growth. Thus, we could also mention that the build up of this distributional coalition would increase the complexity of regulation in areas related with car industry. In its extreme upshot it would by some means influence the course of social evolution. 4. Analysis and empirical evidence We will focus our analysis in the field where the ACEA plays its higher stakes: the negotiations for the reduction of CO2 emissions by automobile vehicles. Particularly, we intend to highlight ACEA evolution and its impact on the quality of policy making by the European Commission in the last two decades. Then, we intend to figure out if there is a link between this groups actions regarding the topic and the European Union performance in technological development, more specifically the move towards a greener and more fuel-efficient society. But first, its important to provide a brief characteristics description of this particular interest group. 4.1. ACEA a heavyweight special interest group The European Automotive Manufacturers Association ACEA, is well-known and highly respected Economic interest Grouping within the Europe. ACEA was established in 1991 with Brussels headquarters, Secretariat and Secretary General. Later ACEA also opened two other offices in Beijing and Tokyo even though the main purpose was to advocate the car manufacturers rights and interests on the highest European level possible. Today ACEA has significant importance and voice because it is gather 18 big and powerful car, truck and bus manufacturers such as BMW Group, GM Europe, Volkswagen, IVECO, Renault, Jaguarà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ The automotive industry itself is a vital part of European Union economy, the ACEA members alone contribute every year roughly 20 billion euros into research and development, claim 42.8 billion on net exports and deliver taxes on approximately 3.5% of the European Union GDP. Surprisingly for such a significant lobby group, the organization of the ACEA is quite simple. The main organ is the Board of directors. Each member of the directors board is also a CEO in a company, which is a member of ACEA. The board of directors is the decision-making organ and selects a President on an annual basis. Decisions are taken into force by the Joint Committee, which is represented by senior executives of the member companies. In the case of particular issues, there is also available a specialized Committee to discuss and help on the issues. Apart from these organs, there are also more than twenty specialized working groups working for the ACEA, who are responsible for technical expertise and advisory. Every member of the specialized working group is an expert in his field and works for the member company. The general and main purpose of ACEA is to be included in these activities with European Union: 1.To have a constant dialogue with European Union and all the other organizations influencing the automotive industry; 2.Cooperation with all the responsible and decision-making organs in order to offer the industry knowledge and expertise, which ACEA has. To provide relevant opinions and suggestions to the policy makers; 3.To provide valuable partnership within the whole organization as well as to offer partnership to other interdependent industries, in order to achieve the mutual beneficial policies; 4.To provide strategic reflection on the current and future completion within the industry and on corporate responsibility; 5.To communicate the importance and activities of the industry, also to communicate the acquired data, information and expertise. 6.To monitor all the activities and threats which might influence the industry and afterwards properly respond to them or cooperate with the stakeholders. 4.2. Analysis of real-life outcomes 4.2.1. The growing size of the group Taking a closer look at this groups evolution along the last decades, we conclude that its rate of growth in terms of size and influence has been staggering. Having as a predecessor the old CMCC (Comità © des Constructeurs du Marchà © Commun), founded in 1972 and consisting of seven members, the ACEAs number of members in 2005 was two times bigger. In September 2012, the organization comprised 18 different automobile manufacturers. What can explain this phenomenon? Since the CMCC times we can perceive this interest group as an umbrella association. This kind of groups provides resources and often an identity to the smaller organizations that are part of it. In this kind of arrangement, the umbrella organization is to some degree responsible for the groups under its care. Economies of scale, a better pool of experts and experience, shared apprenticeship and exchange of know-how are some factors that theoretically attract more groups, enhancing the ability for smaller organizations and companies to influence the politic-process in a legislation negotiation context. An important point is that it is harder for a single organization and also smaller lobby groups operating outside large established lobby groups to get their voice through in this matter. In practice, it is more often the ACEA that stands for the press-releases and statements in the media, but what the ACEA does do and say is a product of the discussions within the organization by smaller organizations within them; so, in that way the smaller companies grow in strength and enhance their ability to influence and compete in Brussels over this issue. By gathering and discussing the issue under one organization like ACEA, the organizations and companies get greater power in Brussels than if they would split up into 10-15 smaller organizations, so this means that representation is a mean for these organizations and companies to permeate the EU. We can almost consider this to be a kind of natural monopoly, in terms of the rights of representing the industries interests. This phenomenon confirms Olsons hypothesis of increasing size, influence and access to policy making, in respect to this special interest group. 4.2.2. The official position of the ACEA regarding CO2 emissions reduction Officially, according to its own institutional information, the ACEA agrees with the Commission that something has to be done about the CO2 emissions and they fully support the EU objective of reducing car emissions. But the ACEA believes that most of the burden within this situation has been placed on the car manufacturers. The ACEA calls for an integrated approach, which means that everybody has to do their part in order to reach the goals. The association wants the other elements (fuel industry, policy makers and car users) to take a larger part in lowering CO2 emissions. The integrated approach to lower CO2 emissions that the ACEA presents contains five components. The first one is vehicle technology which they themselves are responsible for. Then we have alternative fuels which need to be developed further with help from the fuel industry. The third component is consumer behavior, that we as consumers/drivers need to be educated in so-called Eco-driving, which in the long run saves 5-7% save in fuel consumption and therefore also in emissions. The fourth component is infrastructural measures concerning for instance traffic lights and the planning of roads in larger cities which often causes traffic jams. If steps could be taken to solve these infrastructural problems a lot of emissions would never occur. The last component concerns CO2-related taxation, which would stimulate buyers to choose fuel-efficient cars, if they cost less in taxes; and in this area the ACEA believes that the Commission has failed on their part of the agreement. To steer free from stricter car safety and emissions regulations, lobbyists have been stating and defending before the EU decision-makers that driving behavior, trees next to roads and other infrastructure are also very important factors. Important as they may be, these are matters which the European Parliament and other EU institutions have no power over as they are controlled at member state level. Therefore, bringing these topics to discussion at a EU level is fallacious and distorting the reality of the fact and, as we later expose, may contribute to the preservation of a certain status quo in the industry. Its important to bear in mind that the cars that yield the biggest profit to carmakers are the biggest ones in size SUVs and 44. Precisely the ones raising more concerns, due to their higher rates of CO2 emissions. 4.2.3. The 1998 ACEA-EC agreement In 1995 the European Council approved a community strategy to reduce CO2 emissions from passenger cars to an average of 120gkm for newly registered cars by 2005, and at the latest by 2010. The ACEA agreement represented the first VA explicitly aimed at climate protection. Theoretically, this represented an ideal context for the use of this new policy instrument, as the basic conditions were in place: a strong euro car industry association a large share of the market, a level of trust between government and industry, and concern for the economic effects and competitiveness implications of regulations. The strategy was based in 3 policies: 1. A voluntary fuel economic agreement 2. A fiscal framework for member states 3. A fuel economy labeling scheme In 1998 a Voluntary agreement was reached between EC and ACEA under the terms of which the industry is committed to reduce average CO2 emissions figures from all cars to 140g/ by 2008. An intermediate target was set for 2003 at 170g/km. The negotiation was marked by an important democratic deficit: the process bypassed the EP, the only directly elected EU institution, and failed to ensure public participation NGO have only be consulted once during the years of negotiations. Because negotiations have been carried out behind closed doors, the danger of regulatory capture has been always present during the negotiations. This agreement also lacked monitoring, as until 2002 the only source of statistical data regarding ACEA progress concerning the goals was coming from car association sources, and an enforcement mechanism. Actually, the agreement didnt contain any enforcement mechanism it did not contain sanctions for non-compliance or measures to address the issue of internal free riders. The industry would effectively be its own watchdog. Given the highly competitive characteristics of the car industry, conditions for failure where perfectly reunited. Another interesting fact is the length of negotiations: the time span for conclusion was four years, in comparison to an average of two years, regarding the European voluntary agreements normal standards. The lack of a high level of technical capacity of the EC, in comparison with all the expertise from the ACEA side, adding to the lack of credible threats for the industry, left the EC negotiators at the mercy of the pure political bargaining. In this situation, the strength of such a strong interest group dictated the final outcome (figure 1). The content of the agreement was clearly outdated. The target of 140g/km was meant to bring about cars that would drive at 5 liters for 100km. However , recent OECD studies prove that a 50-80% improvement in fuel economy would be possible using existing technology at little extra cost over 10-15 years. In contrast , its impact would not even likely stabilize CO2 emissions from passenger cars at 1999 levels by 2010. Furthermore, the objective was not sufficiently ambitious to support a technological shift from the internal combustion engine towards lower emissions technologies such as electric or hybrid engines, not to mention hydrogen based fuel cells. Although these technologies were more or less close to commercial production, barriers of higher costs and lack of supportive infrastructure delayed their large scale development. The terms of the ACEA agreement were clearly not designed to support the introduction of much needed zero emission technologies, but to assist the continuation of the conventional car design. 4.2.4. The 21st century negotiations The voluntary agreement signed in 1998 set the deadline for the main goals accomplishment for the year 2008. However, that deal proved not to be the final one. The ACEA worked successfully to delay the date first until 2010 then until 2012. The association argued that the dates were not reasonable and its consequences, in times of economic crisis, would seriously harm the industry, with direct consequences on the employment level. Yet time has shown that most of their alarmist claims were not borne out in reality. In fact, many companies will meet the legal requirements even earlier than they have to According to European Commission official data, CO2 emissions from road transport increased by nearly 23% between 1990 and 2010, and without the economic downturn growth could have been even bigger. Transport was the only major sector in the EU where greenhouse gas emissions are still rising, being light-duty vehicles a major source of greenhouse gas emissions, producing around 15% of the EUs emissions of CO2. Since then, the EU has been putting in place a comprehensive legal framework to reduce CO2 emissions from new light duty vehicles as part of efforts to ensure it meets its greenhouse gas emission reduction targets under the Kyoto Protocol and beyond. The legislation sets binding emission targets for new car and van fleets. For cars, manufacturers are obliged to ensure that their new car fleet does not emit more than an average of 130 grams of CO2 per kilometre (g CO2/Km) by 2015 and 95g by 2020.This compares with an average of almost 160g in 2007 and 135.7g in 2011. In fact, the new goal for 2015 was actually the original EC goal for 2012. Due to lobbying regarding the first voluntary agreement, the 120g of CO2 for 2012 turned into 130g by 2015. Recent studies prove that carmakers will reach these values well ahead of time. In July 2012, the Commission proposed legislation setting out the modalities for implementing the 2020 targets. The ACEA was a major player during this round of negotiations. Volkswagen, nowadays the most relevant member of the European automobile industry and the one that invests the most in lobbying (figure 2) has described the 95g legislative target as not based on sound impact assessment nor on a realistic appreciation of the costs and technical progress necessary to meet the goal within the timescale. A new loophole, inserted following lobbying by the ACEA, would undermine the overall fleet target. Instead of calculating average fleet emissions by adding up the emissions of every car and dividing by the number of cars, carmakers will be allowed to offset the most polluting cars against a smaller number of their cleanest cars. If this accounting trick makes it into the final law, carmakers will be able to sell more polluting cars, resulting in real average fleet emissions in excess of 95g CO2/km. At the same time, Greenpeace and several other pro-environment groups and parties call on the European Parliament and EU governments to lower the 2020 cars target to 80g CO2/km and to back a 2025 target of 60g CO2/km. Its a clear fact that efficiency standards reduce Europes need for expensive crude oil imports and drive down fuel bills for drivers. European drivers currently pay between à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬1,235 and à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬2,143 to fill their tanks every year. A 95g CO2/km target without loopholes would cut costs to between à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬962 and à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬1,665 by 2020, according to independent calculations. If EU governments decide to set a target of 60g CO2/km by 2025, fuel costs will drop further to between à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬494 and à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬863 by 2030. The new proposal must go through a long negotiation process between EU governments and the European Parliament before it can become law. Lobbying is likely to continue, with increasingly new arguments and strategies. For example, in 20th September 2012, VDA, a German automobile industry lobby controlled by the ACEA, proposed the possibility of getting bonus points for electric cars they have not actually sold, but to also allow car companies to bank CO2 credits. If the companies reduce their CO2 emissions more than required by 2015 they should receive a credit for this performance which should be used for underperformance in following years. After all, the Commission failed to propose any efficiency targets for 2025. Without this milestone, the rate of technological innovation could slow down in Europe, threatening the competitiveness of European cars on the global market. Europe is currently the global leader on vehicle efficiency, but the United States and China are catching up. The US has recently proposed its own 2025 target for carmakers embraced by thirteen global carmakers including BMW, Toyota and Hyundai curiously, not VW. 5. Conclusion According the Olsons theory, there are several types of interest groups, which we can basically divide into small and big interest groups. Generally sma