Sustainability Of The Salton Sea Environmental Sciences Essay

An iconic characteristic in the California desert, the Salton Sea stands as a testament to the human component. What started as a manmade catastrophe has become an built-in portion of the local and planetary ecosystems prolonging marine life and supplying a much needed halt along the Pacific Flyway. During the 1950 ‘s and 60 ‘s the Salton Sea was considered the California Riviera as its shores were filled with diversion departers and famous persons. However, the Salton Sea is no longer the desert Eden it one time was. In fact in many ways it is going a liability. The increasing salt, along with the unsustainable influxs of H2O has forced hard inquiries be answered. The Southern Cross of the treatment is what should be done with the Salton Sea? While some believe the Sea should be left to nature, other believe the Sea needs to be sustained and restored. In 2003 California passed SB 277 The Salton Sea Restoration Act, which is average to reconstruct the Salton Sea utilizing the best option. While this sounds ideal, there are many complex issues confronting the Sea, many of which have significant economic branchings. However, a Restoration program is afoot which will turn to the major issues, offering a gleam of hope for an ecosystem seesawing on the border of prostration. Introduction Sparkling in the California desert the Salton Sea stands as a testament to the human component. What started as a manmade catastrophe has become an built-in portion of the local ecosystem, prolonging marine life and supplying a much needed halt along the Pacific migration route. However, since its creative activity this resource has developed into a challenge, one that concerns many yet is thought of by few. Proposals have run the spectrum from making nil to making an inland sea portion via canal to the Gulf of California. Recently statute law was passed to officially reply the inquiries environing the Sea. This policy analysis will concentrate on one peculiar piece of statute law, SB 277, the Salton Sea Restoration Act of 2003, and will consistently analyze SB 277 ‘s successes, failures, and interactions. Like all issues, the fortunes environing the Salton Sea are really complex, and rely to a great extent on understanding the challenges, history and significance. History Surface H2O, in the Imperial Valley is non a recent happening. During prehistoric times, the Gulf of California extended up to the present Coachella Valley. It is believed that over clip silt sedimentations from the Colorado River easy formed a fen insulating a northern inland sea. Finally this sea evaporated go forthing behind a huge salt sedimentation and uncovering the Salton Sink. It is farther believed that since so, the Colorado River has changed class many times make fulling the Salton Sink with H2O and deposit. This rhythm of deluging resulted in the lift of the vale floor along with the deposition of fertile dirt. While there is important grounds of river oscillation and prehistoric seas and lakes, western history has little documented firsthand histories about an inland sea ( MacDougal, 1917, p. 458 ) . Alternatively, most records report an inhospitable desert ; one that holds the psyche of adult male and animal ( Kennan, 1917, p. 13 ) seeking for an alternate path to the California gold Fieldss. And while many of these travellers saw the Imperial Valley as a barren, some saw great agricultural potency. At the bend of century a great irrigation undertaking was planned and implemented amusing H2O from the Colorado River for usage in the Imperial Valley. It was an ambitious program that looked to payout large for the parties involved. There was nevertheless one issue that was non accounted for, silt. Once in the canal system the suspended silt settled, doing obstructors and cut downing volume. Many thoughts were tried to take the silt, nevertheless none proved deserving while. It was determined that the lone manner more H2O could be delivered was by making another recreation point on the Colorado River. After analyzing the river ‘s way, rainfall and flows a new headgate was installed and completed in 1905. However, this would turn out to be an exceeding twelvemonth as rainfall reached 26.6 inches, as apposed to the historic norm of 8-10 inches ( Henry, 1907, p. 245 ) . Soon the river had breached the new headgate deviating the full Colorado River into the Salton Sink for a period of about two old ages. After incorporating the Colorado River the largest lake in California had been crated stretching over 35 stat mis in length. This catastrophe displaced occupants and destroyed harvests, but one time the dust settled a hoarded wealth was revealed. As the Imperial Valley grew the Salton Sea became an built-in portion of the vale and Southern California. In 1924 President Coolidge designated the Salton Sea as a lasting drainage reservoir, which was followed in 1930 by the appellation of wildlife safety ( â€Å" Awash in History † , 2002 ) . During World War II the Sea was used as a bombing country every bit good as an alternate commercial fishing country for coastal fishermen who were worried about German pigboats ( â€Å" Salton Sea Authority † , n.d. ) . After WWII the Salton Sea became a recreational Eden in the desert offering changeless sunlight, warm H2O, unfastened infinite, and exceeding athletics fishing. During the 1950 ‘s the Salton Sea contained Covina, Sargo, and Croaker which provided diversion for people and nutrient for wildlife. The Salton Sea was genuinely a gem in the desert ; and times were good as developers built commercial and residential constructions ( Pearce, 2003, p. 48 ) . However, this aureate age would be short lived as inundations and environmental concerns damaged belongings and drove visitants off. Eventually building stopped, towns were abandoned, and wildlife started to decease. Problem It is understood that the Salton Sea is in problem. Salinity is steadily lifting, wildlife emphasis has increased, alimentary tonss are exceptionally high, desire to deviate inflow H2O to other countries is turning, and in 2018 influx will significantly diminish under the Quantification Settlement Agreement ( QSA ) ( which will chiefly be funded through fees on the transportation of H2O between the parties involved in the QSA. The cost to the province has yet to be determined, pending the study to be prepared by the Department of Food and Agriculture ) . While these facts are unchallenged, a solution has yet to be implemented. And with the deadline nearing the urgency for action has increased, coercing replies to hard and alone inquiries environing the Salton Sea. Yet even with extended surveies, consensus remains hard. The graph below illustrates the salt of the Salton Sea. In 2017 with the recreation of H2O salt is expected to quickly increase, which will ensue in the disappearing of fish, and drastically change the Salton Sea ‘s ecosystem. Geography The properties that created the Salton Sea are the same 1s that have caused its debasement. The Salton Sea sits on a big salt sedimentation in a basin with a surface degree of about 230 pess below sea degree ( â€Å" Journal of Geography † , 2009 ) . This means that unlike most lakes which have an escape, the Salton Sea merely has influx. As a consequence all of the compounds come ining the lake remain after vaporization, which is about 5 pess a twelvemonth. Besides unlike the lakes which had antecedently been in the Salton Sink, the present Salton Sea is fed by manmade beginnings the bulk being agricultural overflow, which has unnaturally prolonged the life of the Sea. The Salton Sea besides sits atop the San Andreas Fault, and is surrounded by geothermic activity. Significance to Southern California Beyond the geology and geographics, the Salton Sea plays a important function in the planetary ecosystem. Before the development of Southern California there were many wetlands which provided halting countries for migrating birds going the Pacific Flyway. As the human population grew the natural balance shifted. The Colorado River which used to hold a exuberant delta country was siphoned off turning the one time resource rich country into a desert. Along with this, many of the Southern California wetlands have been developed. While this development has affected the Southern California part of the migration route, it is non entirely, many of the historic halting countries have been developed coercing the birds to either cohabitate or happen less suited adjustments. For the migrating birds the Salton Sea is a true oasis in the desert with over 400 species of birds holding been spotted, which is about half of the known North American species ( â€Å" Salton Sea Authority † , n.d. ) . Many of which are listed as protected or endangered. The Sea offers birds a privy resting topographic point with an abundant nutrient supply.Protected Speciess Found in or Around the Salton SeaaAFederally Listed SpeciessCalifornia Listed SpeciessFishDesert Pupfish Desert PupfishAARazorback ChumpBirdsBald Eagle Bald EagleACalifornia Brown Pelican California Brown PelicanACalifornia Least Tern California Least TernALeast Bell ‘s Vireo Least Bell ‘s VireoASouthwestern Willow Flycatcher Willow FlycatcherAYuma Clapper Rail Yuma Clapper RailAAAAAArizona Bell ‘s VireoAABank SwallowAACalifornia Black RailAAElf OwlAAGila WoodpeckerAAGilded Northern FlickerAAGolden EagleAAGreater Sandhill CraneAAPeregrine FalconAASwainson ‘s HawkAAWestern Yellow-billed FatheadAAWhite-tailed KiteABeginning: Program Environmental Impact Report ( PEIR ) At onetime some believed the Salton Sea was the most productive piscaries in the universe, while this is hard to quantify it is evident the sea holds tonss of marine life. In the late 1960 ‘s a California Fish and Game ( CFG ) survey conducted at the Salton Sea predicted fish reproduction would discontinue when salt reached 45 parts per 1000 ( ppt ) with current salt at 44 ppt ( I. Haydock, Ph.D, personal communicating, November 19, 2010 ) . This anticipation has proven true, as many fish species have disappeared from the Salton Sea, go forthing Tilapia and the desert pupfish. Along with a rich mix of wildlife, the Salton Sea represents the human environmental impact. The Sea which is maintained by agricultural overflow can be seen as a testing land for new environmental direction thoughts. Social and Economic Factors Like most issues, one of the most urgent factors confronting the Salton Sea is economic based. The Imperial Valley which uses the Salton Sea as a overflow depository has an estimated agricultural production of over $ 1.6 billion ( â€Å" California Farm Bureau Federation † , 2010 ) . What makes the Sea an built-in portion of this is that the Colorado River H2O used for irrigation has a high salt content. Harmonizing to the Imperial County Farm Bureau the sum of salt flushed into the Salton Sea is equal to 52,000 truck tonss yearly ( â€Å" Imperial County Farm Bureau † , n.d. ) . If the salt were to be left in the dirt it would be merely a few old ages before harvests would get down to neglect. Aquaculture has besides become dependent on the Sea. Aquaculture started during WWII and developed into a big market bring forthing over 10 million lbs of fish a twelvemonth ( Rafferty, 1999, p. 1 ) . More late the focal point of aquaculture has been on algae which non merely cleans the H2O but can besides be used to make biofuel. The Sea is besides host to ten geothermic power workss that produce a net end product of about 327 megawatts of energy that is sold to Southern California Edison ( â€Å" CalEnergy † , n.d. ) . While each of these industries are separate, they depend upon each other for endurance. The husbandmans need to leach the salt of the dirt, and in making so maintains the Sea ‘s degree. The geothermic power workss rely on the Sea ‘s H2O to power the steam generators for energy production. And the aquaculture industry relies on the het H2O from the geothermic workss to advance growing among the fish and algae. Socially the Salton Sea has an every bit of import axial rotation. While the shoreline towns have non seen a noticeable revival the Sea remains to be a big attractive force. On any given twenty-four hours there are people bivouacing, fishing, and loosen uping along its shores. Beyond diversion, the current Sea is commanding what could be an ecologic catastrophe. If the Sea is allowed to dry up, contaminations could go airborne, adversely affect the lives of 1000000s ( Schwabe et al. , 2008, p. 183 ) . A similar affect was seen in Owens Valley when the Los Angels Department of Water and Power ( LADWP ) dried the vale, damaging the ecosystem and harming the dwellers. While there are differences between the Owens Valley and the Salton Sea, the dangers are existent and would potentially impact the full sou'-west. Economically if the Sea is allowed to dry ; it means all of the industries which rely on the Sea have now changed. For the Imperial and Coachella Valleys this could be black. Human Health and Quality of Life During 50 ‘s, 60s, and 70s the Salton Sea was a finish for people who love H2O athleticss and diversion and with a population of about 15,000 ( today 400 ) it was a turning community. However, since so fish putting to deaths ( due to algae blooms ) , bird deceases ( due to Botulism ) , pollution panics, and implosion therapy has pushed people to travel and stopped utilizing sea recreationally. It should be noted the issues environing the Salton Sea are non merely environmental. They are besides economic and wellness issues, which affect the quality of life of the people still populating on the Sea ‘s fringe. For these occupants and the visitants the Sea country is a bare topographic point ( â€Å" Salton Sea Authority † , n.d. ) . Rehabilitation Ideas Many solutions have been proposed as to how best manage the Salton Sea. These thoughts run the spectrum from allowing the Sea evaporate and return to abandon, to delving a channel to the Gulf of California. While all of the programs have some virtue, many have liabilities that outweigh benefits. Of the solutions to have consideration there are two base outs, a full Sea and a partial Sea programs. The partial Sea program is presently the proposed best alternate and will be discussed in following pages. For a full Sea Restoration there are many challenges, one being the QSA which regulates the sum of Colorado River H2O California is able to pull. While a California allocation has been in topographic point since the Colorado River Compact of 1922, California has been able to pull above the 4.4 million acre pess because it was entitled to a per centum of the surplus. However, California is now being required to remain within its 4.4 million acre pess allotment, with an increased part traveling to urban usage as apposed to agricultural. This means that less H2O will be used to water which equal less overflow. So in order to keep the Sea, H2O from the Gulf of California will necessitate to be pumped into the lake, and H2O from the lake will necessitate to be pumped back to the Gulf, making an unfastened system with the ocean. This would stabilise the salt while keeping the bing Sea. While this thought sounds good, it comes with many variables and a high projected cost. In a study by the Pacific Institute such a program would be about $ 70 billion dollars ( Cohen, 2008, p. 132 ) and require cooperation of landholders and the Mexican authorities. Accountability Soon the Sea receives H2O from multiple beginnings: Whitewater River, Alamo River, New River, agricultural overflow, groundwater, and a fraction from rainfall. While these beginnings have been discussed, the Alamo and New river which originate in Mexico contribute to the Sea ‘s pollution. However, while these rivers cross the U.S. Mexico boarder the Salton Sea is clearly a province and federal issue. Many federal bureaus have besides passed statute law in relation to the Salton Sea including the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the U.S. Department of the Interior which passed the Salton Sea Reclamation Act of 1998 authorising financess to analyze salt direction ( â€Å" U.S. Bureau of Reclamation † , n.d. ) . While we know more about the Salton Sea now, California is taking a proactive function in protecting and developing the Sea, with the California Salton Sea Authority in the lead. What is an environmental policy? The present Salton Sea status is a apogee of many factors, from hapless sewerage intervention fouling the H2O, to the deficiency of media attending. Yet the authorities is devoted to developing a program which addresses environmental sustainability, preservation, population wellness, and economic growing. Over the last decennary environmental policy development and execution ( entirely or in concurrence with undertakings ) has shifted its focal point on digesting additions in sustainable usage, effectual direction, improved quality of life, and preservation of natural resources. Like other types of public policies, environmental policies set up the regulations that guide environmental determinations of houses and families in rural, agricultural, and urban countries. Environmental constabularies are designed and implemented for the express intent protecting and/or bettering environmental quality or natural resource usage ; by pull offing pollution and other human activity. Environmental policy should reform or alter the â€Å" regulations of the game † that guides behaviour of houses, farms, and families related to pollution and natural resource usage. Policy shapers in deferent degrees of authorities employ a assortment of inducements and deterrences to promote determinations that promote environmental ends and protect natural resources. A well-designed environmental policy should be cost-efficient, based on sound economic rules, achieve environmental aims, set up local ownership through engagement, and create institutional functions and duties which are consensual during the execution procedure. Environmental policies are non without their challenges. While the benefits of good conceived environmental policy are significant and easy recognized, policy alterations frequently require institutional reforms. A successful environmental policy should convey together taking scientific research workers, policy shapers, minds, and experts on the environment and wellness every bit good as proficient and legal experts, including national statute law, federal and province regulators, to portion their cognition and penetrations into the complex environmental and human wellness issues. It should be noted that, in the environmental policy doing procedure the usage of modern scientific discipline, engineering, and economic feasibleness tools are indispensable ( Stenberg et al, 2007, p. 265 ) . History of the Bill Up until his premature decease US Congressman Sonny Bono was a strong voice for the Salton Sea. As a local occupant, Mayor of Palm Springs, and subsequently a US Congressman, Sonny Bono understood the significance of the Salton Sea and was in the procedure of subjecting statute law when he died. Fortunately Newt Gingrich carried the measure which would be named â€Å" Sonny Bono Salton Sea Restoration Act. † ( Orange County Register, February 1998 ) . In 1998, Congress enacted the Salton Sea Reclamation Act of 1998 directing the US Bureau of Reclamation to develop options that would stabilise salt and lake degree while keeping the Sea ‘s usage as an irrigation drainage reservoir. Today, the Salton Sea Ecosystem Restoration Program is a combined attempt fall ining Federal bureaus, State bureaus, local bureaus, stakeholders, and the general populace all working together to reconstruct the Sea ‘s ecosystem. In 2003, 40th District Senator Denise Ducheny presented the California Legislature with SB 277 the Salton Sea Restoration Act, Which directs the Natural Resources Agency, Department of Fish and Game and the Department of Water Resources, to analyze and develop the best option for reconstructing the Salton Sea, one which would turn to the Sea ‘s ecosystem and human involvement. For Senator Ducheny the Salton Sea and the QSA have significance because her territory includes the Sea and many of the H2O bureaus involved. And while there is no grounds of parts from involvement groups, A Sea Restoration would pump 1000000s if non one million millions into the local economic system, while reconstructing a strong attractive force. The aims are to: 1 ) Make a sensible and sustainable home ground and ecosystem for the wildlife dependent on the Sea. 2 ) Minimize air quality impact. 3 ) Manage H2O quality ( SB 277, 2003 ) . The passage of SB 277 was dependent on the transition of both SB 654 and SB 317 which focused severally on H2O preservation mechanisms and the Sea ‘s ecology. Combined these three measures focus on issues straight impacting the Salton Sea, and supply support of up to $ 300 million dollars from the sale of Colorado River H2O ( Salton Sea Authority, 2004, p. 1 ) . The purpose of Senate Bill 277 ( SB 277 ) The purpose of the Legislature is summarized below: Restore and stabilise the Salton Sea, while making a strong ecosystem advancing wildlife wellness. The Restoration shall be based on the preferable alternate program developed from the Restoration survey and alternate choice procedure described in Section 2081.7. The Use of these financess should be made available in conformity with the old mentioned subdivision to be deposited in the Salton Sea Restoration Fund, and other financess made available by the Legislature and the US federal authorities. The preferable alternate shall supply the maximal executable agencies to reconstruct the sea. Salton Sea Restoration Fund ( SSRF ) SB 277 is intended to reconstruct the Sea which includes stabilising the ecosystem. Specifically, the measure establishes the Sea Restoration Fund which is to be administered by the Director of the Department of Fish and Game ( DFG ) . In 2003, the QSA which among other things addressed the long standing Colorado River apportionment difference between the Imperial Irrigation District, San Diego County Water Authority, and the Coachella Valley Water District. The QSA besides implemented Fish and Game Code Section 2931, which established the Salton Sea Restoration Fund ( â€Å" Bond Accountability.. † n.d. ) . The Legislature will pull off the financess which are intended to be used for: Salton Sea Restoration surveies, with a focal point on continuing wildlife. Create preservation techniques which will supply a balance between wildlife and Sea direction. Implement the agreed upon Restoration program. Manage Restoration activities. Major issues with SB 277 A ) SB 277 SB 277 is an amendment to the old measures which hold the State of California responsible for reconstructing the sea and establishes a mechanism for funding the Restoration. However, the measure fails to turn to these challenges: Economic primacy: The Salton Sea is non an environmental issue. It is an economic issue and one of the largest regional menaces. Atomization of American Political System: US atomization of Political system on this issue is an obstruction to efficiency and effectivity in moving toward work outing the job. Interest group instability: There are many involvement groups that are interested in the Restoration for different grounds, including conservationists, life scientists, folks, abodes, developers, applied scientists, and politicians. The most of import overarching value in public policy is the public involvement ( Pal, 2010, p. 3 ) . The policy rhythm: The policy rhythm includes job acknowledgment ( it should be noted that, the sea Restoration policy rhythm has given a long clip to the survey period in order to specify the job ) , policy development, execution and rating. However, policies seldom tackle individual jobs ; instead, they deal with bunchs of embroiled jobs that may hold contradictory solutions. To farther complicate this, complexness is besides increased with the size and breath of the job which is frequently comprised of sets of other possibly smaller jobs whose really interconnectedness makes them hard to grok and whose boundaries are hard to specify across and over clip ( Pal, 2010, p. 4 ) . The Salton Sea is a perfect illustration of a complex and interconnected job. Economically the Sea is a major driver for industry. Yet financially the Sea is a liability for the State of California which could be upwards of $ 14 billion in Restoration. It should be noted that, if the Sea is allowed to dries up, it would go an air quality catastrophe which would impact the economic system of the Coachella Valley. Furthermore, the Sea remains to be a delicate ecosystem, seesawing between â€Å" haven and hazard † as it softly evolves ( Cohen, et al. , 2009, p. 1 ) . The Sonny Bono Memorial Salton Sea Reclamation Act of 1998, the QSA and ordaining statute law, and the proposed Salton Sea Local Control Act flux one into the other, irrigating down the following piece of statute law. B ) The Many Parties Involved Multiple federal, province, and regional bureaus are presently tuning the best Restoration option for the Salton Sea. In add-on, the Salton Sea Authority Board of Directors includes: California Regional Water Quality Control Board Colorado River Basin Region 7, Coachella Valley Water District ( CVWD ) , Imperial Irrigation District ( IID ) , Riverside County Board of Supervisors 4th District, Riverside County Board of Supervisors 3rd District, Imperial County Board of Supervisors 5th District, Imperial County Board of Supervisors 4th District, Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians, Coachella Valley association of Governments ( CVAG ) , California Department of Fish and Game, Southern California Association of Government ( SCAG ) , State Resource Agency, and Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control. In add-on, a Technical Advisory Committee including life scientists, applied scientists, and environmental experts has been formed ( â€Å" Salton Sea Authority † , n.d. ) .Me mbers of the Salton Sea Advisory CommitteeAFederal AgenciesBureau of Indian Affairs Bureau of Reclamation Fish and Wildlife Service Geological Survey Environmental Protection AgencyTribal GovernmentsTorres-Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians Cabazon Band of Mission IndiansState AgenciesState Water Resources Control Board Colorado River Basin Regional Water Quality Control Board California Air Resources BoardLocal AgenciesMetropolitan Water District of Southern California San Diego County Water Authority Coachella Valley Water District Imperial Irrigation District Imperial County Riverside County Imperial County Air Pollution Control District South Coast Air Quality Management District Coachella Valley Association of Governments Imperial Valley Association of GovernmentsNongovernmental OrganizationsCalifornia Farm Bureau Federation Riverside County Farm Bureau Imperial County Farm Bureau Defenders of Wildlife California Waterfowl Association Pacific Institute United Anglers of Southern California Audubon California Sierra Club CalEnergy Operating Corporation New River Citizens Congressional Task Force Beginning: Program Environmental Impact Report ( PEIR ) With all of these bureaus keeping involvement in the Salton Sea, many have presented contradictory information, which has made developing a consensus hard. To assist with this a Technical Advisory Committee ( TAC ) which is comprised of bureau representatives each have a strong cognition of the Sea, and are supposed to supply counsel to the Board of Director ‘s. C ) A sea of contradictions: It is frequently written that the Salton Sea is a â€Å" sea of contradictions † ; it is both a oasis for wildlife every bit good as jeopardy for resident fish, birds, and other animals. Since the Sea terminal lake sustained by agricultural overflow, the influxs are both a approval and a expletive ( Cohen, 1999, p. 15 ) . The argument over how best to reconstruct this delicate ecosystem is non new. The treatment of dividing the lake into a northern salt managed lake and a southern seawater pool, which is today the Salton Sea Authority ‘s preferable option, received serious attending every bit early every bit 1974 as the sulphide odor from the fecund algal bloom rhythm and the subsequent fish die-offs began driving tourers off from the Sea. D ) Policy Issue The bing issues environing the Salton Sea are about to make a tipping point forcing determinations be made. If nil gets done in the close hereafter, the sea is predicted to slowly evaporate, and a new set of issues will be presented. A major obstruction is funding. In add-on, the concluding cost is hard to gauge because of the complexness of this issue. Presently there has been small way provided by the legislative assembly with respects to implementation plan including timeline. While a preferable Restoration program was scheduled to be delivered by the terminal of 2006, inquiries remain, and action has non been taken. The legislative assembly merely authorized the State to travel frontward with what has been proposed as the Salton Sea Species Conservation Habitat ( SCH ) Project. The legislative assembly needs to give authorization to the State to travel frontward with a Restoration plan. The State has proposed a Restoration program which is similar to the Salton Sea Authority ‘s initial proposal. The federal authorities has besides come up with similar consequences. Because influx will be reduced all of the programs are partial lake Restorations. In December of 2007 the US Bureau of Reclamation issued the Restoration of the salton sea concluding study December 2007 in which the costs for the different programs was laid out. For the partial lake Restoration plans the estimated costs ranged from $ 9.2 billion to $ 14 billion in building costs ( US Bureau of Reclamation, 2007, p. 7-2 ) . In this program the Sea is divided into two chief subdivisions, each incorporating multiple zones. The north half of the Sea would be for diversion with the south half being for rehabilitation and home ground. By diminishing the organic structure of H2O by half, merely a part of the present influx will be needed to prolong changeless degrees. Water would so be circulated in a cloc kwise way and filtered through the marsh/habitat where it will be filtered. Throughout the Waterss path there will be intervention workss every bit good as pumping Stationss which will keep circulation ( â€Å" Salton Sea Authority † , n.d. ) . This program besides takes into consideration the many different industries that rely on the Sea. The geothermic workss will still hold entree to H2O, and wildlife will still hold plentifulness of topographic points to rest while migrating. However, there are many challenges that need to be overcome, one being the projected costs. While this program offers a contained solution to the job, the effectivity and costs are non certain. Below is a map of the partial sea program from the Salton Sea Authority. The Department of Fish and Game is traveling frontward with this program as a halt spread step before a concluding program is approved. Salton Sean Species Conservation Habitat ( SCH ) Undertaking SB 277 has strengthened the foundation, nevertheless, it does non see the size and clip for the sea Restoration undertaking. Presently the proposed Salton Sea Species Conservation Habitat ( SCH ) Project size one time wholly build-out is expected to be about 2,400 estates, nevertheless, building clip and costs are dependent on the acquisition of land ( Salton Sea Update, September 2010 ) . In conformity with CEQA the California Natural Resources Agency is in the procedure of carry oning an EIR for the SCH Project. Besides because the SCH Project involves both State and Federal actions, a joint EIS/EIR will be prepared by DFG, under the way of the Natural Resources Agency, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers ( Corps ) pursuant to CEQA and the National Environmental Policy Act ( NEPA ) . This joint papers is being prepared to optimise efficiency and avoid duplicate and is intended to be sufficient in range to turn to both the Federal and State demands. For the intents of the EIS/EIR, the State is to develop preservation patterns that will protect the Sea ‘s wildlife in conformity with Section 2932 of the fish and game codification, pull off the issue potency of incidental take mandate under the California Endangered Species Act ( CESA ) California, Section 2081, and oversee the Streambed Alteration Agreement under California Fish and Game Code, Section 1602. The U S Federal Government may publish licenses to modulate discharge into organic structures of H2O, which include watercourses, lakes, fens, and rivers [ State of California, Natural Resources Agency, June 21, 2010, Notice of Preparation ( NOP ) of a Draft Environmental Impact Statement/Environmental Impact Report ( EIS/EIR ) ] . Role of Bureaucracy Bureaucracy has an of import function in the sea Restoration procedure. It implements the written Torahs and regulations while supplying processs on how to implement the Restoration. However, the engagement of the many shareholders, bureaucratic ruddy tape and deficiency of consensus has hampered advancement. Size: Due to the high figure of organisations and entities involve within the procedure, it is about impossible to supervise everyone and every group. Ability of administrative officials: The people who administer the policy have huge measures of information to procedure with limited staff. In 1998 Congress enacted the Salton Sea Reclamation Act. However, policy execution inside informations were non established. So in 2003 California passed SB 277 which assumed authorization by California to work out the particulars. Presently California is working with the Federal authorities and other bureaus in a Joint Powers Authority. Ethical Issues SB 277 is hard because no affair what is decided there will be inauspicious affects. If after the surveies have been conducted it is determined that Fieldss will necessitate to be fallowed, so the local economic system potentially suffers. However, if current flows are maintained SDCWA, CVWD, and MWD will non hold adequate H2O to run into turning demand. Conversely if influx is allowed to diminish there is the possible that wildlife could be adversely affected. The Salton Sea besides represents an ethical quandary, is reconstructing the Sea the best usage of public financess? This inquiry becomes peculiarly outstanding as the state is confronting economic troubles. After looking at the options, it becomes evident that in the instance of the Salton Sea Restoration is in fact in the best involvements of the province and state. International Relationss SB 277 does no straight mention any foreign states ; nevertheless, the consequences of SB 277 will hold a direct effect to both Mexico and Canada. As discussed earlier two of the major influx beginnings originate in Mexico. And although California can non necessitate Mexico ‘s conformity, it would be sensible to bespeak Mexico ‘s support in cleaning up the New and Alamo rivers. Presently the Environmental Protection Agency ( EPA ) is working with the Mexican authorities to better the H2O quality of the New River by put ining waste H2O interventions workss, using over $ 40 million dollars in Mexicali effluent undertakings ( â€Å" Environmental Protection Agency † , 2010 ) . This non merely cleans the H2O fluxing into the Sea, but it besides provides Mexicali with a new beginning of drinkable H2O. Less straight the Salton Sea plays a planetary axial rotation in supplying a resting country for migrating birds. With most of the historic wetlands destroyed, the Salton Sea is the lone resting country in the part. The exact affect of fring the Sea is non known, nevertheless, it is agreed such a loss would damage bird populations. The ripple affect of this could be lay waste toing as full industries and ecosystems are based on the migration of birds. As we have witnessed in other instances, the remotion of one or multiple species from an ecosystem can compromise the full system. Successs and Failures Seven old ages after the passage of SB 277 the Salton Sea has seen small alteration. At a recent Salton Sea symposium many thoughts were presented on how to mange the Sea nevertheless no action had been taken. There was nevertheless, one point of consensus, which was that action needed to be taken instantly ( Gottberg, 2010 ) . So has SB 277 succeeded or failed? On many counts SB 277 has succeeded, it provided funding for surveies which have developed solid solutions, and it has provided a manner to fund these plans through the sale of H2O. While SB 277 has succeeded on many counts it has besides failed. In Section 1 Chapter 13 of the Fish and Game Code it states â€Å" Implementation of the preferable Salton Sea Restoration option † ( SB 277, 2003 ) . SB 277 transportations the load of the Salton Sea from the Federal authorities to the province. While this transportation might hold made action easier, a recent Superior Court opinion found the QSA JPA violated the California Constitution ( Imperial Irrigation District FAQ, 2010 ) . A cardinal point being the province committed to taking on an unacceptable sum of debt. The QSA officially acknowledged the State of California ‘s purpose to set about the Restoration of the Salton Sea. Necessitating the California Natural Resources Agency develop an ecosystem Restoration plan for the Salton Sea. After a really long and publically crystalline procedure, the Salton Sea Ecosystem Restoration Program Preferred Alternative Report and Funding Plan were presented to the California State Legislature by the California Secretary of Natural Resources on May 2007. To day of the month, the Legislature has non acted on the preferable option for the Salton Sea Restoration ; nevertheless, it has appropriated support to get down work on the Species Conservation Habitat ( SCH ) Undertaking. The State has begun the environmental analysis and technology design of the SCH undertaking, consistent with the â€Å" early start † habitat recommendations of the Salton Sea Ecosystem Restoration Programmatic ( PEIR ) . In which the California Natural Resources Agency is functioning as the lead bureau for California Environmental Quality Act ( CEQA ) conformity. The demand for California to implement the SCH undertaking is driven by the environmental jobs that exist within the watershed. Problems that are rapidly making crisis degrees and will be exacerbated by decreased influxs after 2017, the Salton Sea ‘s salt degrees continue to increase and are expected to transcend the tolerance of most fish species in the sea by 2018. These fish are critical to back up many fish-eating birds that are dependent on the Salton Sea. Suggestion In seeking to decode SB 277 it is necessary to see the many interactions. The thought of SB 277 is to reconstruct the Salton Sea, by: support surveies, implement preservation steps, administer the Restoration and direction, develop support, assess IID fallowing plans, and work with federal, province, and local bureaus, while working within the QSA understanding. On paper this Act is brief, but in content it is potentially monolithic. It is our belief that because SB 277 is so across-the-board, it fails to to the full accomplish its ends. After analyzing SB 277 we recommend the followers. The first suggestion would be to put in dated mileposts. Soon under the QSA 2018 is the tipping point for the Salton Sea. SB 277 lineations aims yet offers small way as to how and when programs and undertakings should be implemented. By making deadlines parties will be forced to make a consensus. The Second suggestion is to hold SB 277 create a high degree bureau to pull off the Salton Sea. By making a separate bureau to carry on research and implement programs there would be greater answerability with greater coordination. This bureau would necessitate the support of the province, local, and federal authorities, because of the complexness and engagement of many organisations. Third, the land below and around the Salton Sea needs to be unified. Presently the Sea remainders on private, province, federal, and tribal lands. This fractured ownership has created excessively many parties which need to hold. In the instance of the Salton Sea it would be sensible to hold the province authorities unify ownership making a individual voice. Most significantly SB 277 demands to make a sense of urgency in happening and implementing a solution. For many old ages at that place have been study after survey done, nevertheless, small to no action has been taken. In the interim the deadline for action is nearing while the treatment remains on what to make. Urgency and cooperation demands to be taken up by the involved parties so a to the full supported program can travel frontward. Decision The Salton Sea is soon at hamlets. Some believe the Sea should be allowed to dry up, yet others believe the full lake should be maintained via circulation with the Gulf of California, but everyone believes a determination needs to be made. This paper has examined SB 277 the Salton Sea Restoration Act, which was intended to supply sustainable solutions to the many challenges. However, as shown, small action has been taken. If the Salton Sea is to be rehabilitated, it will necessitate a conjunct attempt by all interested parties. To farther perplex the Restoration attempt, in September of 2010 Governor Schwarzenegger singed SB 51 a measure proposed by Senator Ducheny making the Salton Sea Restoration Council, which will be the State ‘s new lead bureau in the Restoration procedure, and is in with the Salton Sea Authority. This development has created new uncertainnesss, and will be interesting to follow.

Demat account Essay

The trading on stock exchanges in India used to take place through open outcry without use of information technology for immediate matching or recording of trades. This was time consuming and inefficient. This imposed limits on trading volumes and efficiency. In order to provide efficiency, liquidity and transparency, NSE introduced a nation-wide on-line fully automated screen based trading system where a member can punch into the computer quantities of securities and the prices at which he likes to transact and the transaction is executed as soon as it finds a matching sale or buy order from a counter party. Screen based electronic system electronically matches orders on a strict price/time priority and hence cuts down on time, cost and risk of error, as well as on fraud resulting in improved operational efficiency. It allows faster incorporation of price sensitive information into prevailing prices, thus increasing the informational efficiency of markets. It enables market participants, irrespective of their geographical locations, to trade with one another simultaneous, improving the depth and liquidity of the market. It provides full anonymity by accepting orders, big or small, from members without revealing their identity, thus providing equal access to everybody. It also provides a perfect audit trial, which helps to resolve disputes by logging in the trade execution process entirety. The sucked liquidity from other exchanges and in the very first year of its operation, NSE became the leading stock exchange in the country, impacting the fortunes of other exchanges and forcing them to adopt SBTS also. Today India can boast that almost 100% trading take place through electronic order matching. In order to promote dematerialization of securities, NSE joined hands with leading financial institutions to establish the national securities depository Ltd. (NSDL), the first depository in the country, with the objective of enhancing the efficiency in settlement systems as also to reduce the menace of fake/forged and stolen securities. This has ushered in an era of dematerialised trading and settlement. SEBI has made dematerialised settlement mandatory in an ever -increasing number of securities in a phased manner, thus bringing about an increase in the proportion of shares delivered in dematerialised form. There is an increasing preference to settle trades, particularly in high value securities, in demat form. Such  high level of demat settlement reassures success of rolling settlement. What is DEMAT In India , a demat account, the abbreviation for dematerialised account, is a type of banking account which dematerializes paper-based physical stock shares. Conversion of Securities from Physical (Paper) Mode into Electronic Mode is Called Dematerialisation. The Client opens Demat Account with any DP. Upon Demat, the Certificates are destroyed and credit entry of exactly equal number of Securities is created in Depository in Electronic mode. The B.O. account of holder is credited and the securities loose their identities. The dematerialised account is used to avoid holding physical shares: the shares are bought and sold through a stock broker. This account is popular in India. The market regulator, securities and exchange board of India (SEBI) mandates a demat account for share trading above 500 shares. As of April 2006, it became mandatory that any person holding a demat account should possess a permanent account number (PAN), and the deadline for submission of PAN details to the depository lapsed on January 2007. Dematerialisation is the process by which physical certificates of an investor are converted to an equivalent number of securities in electronic form and credited in the investor’s account with its DP. In order to dematerialize certificates; an investor will have to first open an account with a DP and then request for the dematerialisation of certificates by filling up a dematerialisation request form [DRF], which is available with the DP and submitting the same along with the physical certificates. The investor has to ensure that before the certificates are handed over to the DP for demat, they are defaced by marking â€Å"Surrendered f or Dematerialisation† on the face of the certificates. Objective of the Study †¢ The main objective of the study is to know about the potential of the market regarding people’s dealing in share market. †¢ To know the role of Demat Account . †¢ To know the procedure of opening DEMAT ACCOUNT. †¢ The objective is to know that how many people in the city are aware of the UNICON SECURITIES PVT. LTD. †¢ To know where people have already opened their demat a/c and on what basis. Procedure for Opening an Account A demat account are opened on the same lines as that of a Bank Account. Prescribed Account opening forms are available with the DP, needs to be filled in. Standard Agreements are to be signed by the Client and the DP, which details the rights and obligations of both parties †¢ The DP officials will make available the relevant account opening form (depending on whether the client is a retail investor or corporate client/clearing member) and specify the list of documents regarding references that should be submitted along with the form. It will also give a copy of the relevant agreement to be entered with the client, in duplicate. †¢ The client will submit the duly filled in account opening form and client has to visit personally for opening the account in DP. The DP officials have to do in person verification and affix the â€Å"IN PERSON VERIFICATION† stamp on the account opening form. It should also furnish such documents regarding references, as specified by the DP , along with the account opening form. After executing the agreement the client has to forward it to the DP. †¢ The DP officials will verify that the account opening form is duly filled in. It will also verify the enclosed documents, if any. Incomplete forms will be forwarded to the client for rectification. For Corporate Clients, the DP officials will verify if the board resolution for the authorized signatories is enclosed. †¢ In case the documents are not proper, the DP officials will reject the form and intimate the client of the same, stating the reasons for doing so. †¢ If the form is in order; the DP officials will accept the same and affix the stamp â€Å"verified with original† on each and every proof after seeing the original proofs. †¢ After completion of all documentation, the DP officials will verify the pan from income tax website. And affix the stamp â€Å"PAN VERIFIED† with date and sign on the stamp. †¢ The DP officials will enter the client details as mentioned in the account opening form in the DPM (software provided by NSDL & CDSL to the Participant) screen provided for the purpose. In case of NSDL A/c opening the SR. Assist will capture all the details in the DPM and record the client’s signature (on the form) as specimen for authorizations in the future. †¢ After entering client details in the system, a client account number will be generated by the DPM. The DP officials will enter this in the account opening form. After that the officers will verify the details in the DPM captured by the SR. Assist. and  activate the account. †¢ The DP officials are not allowed to give the demat a/c no to the clients until the a/c is activate, this is applicable for both NSDL & CDSL. †¢ When the demat a/c is activated the DP officials have to send the client master and the copy of agreement between DP and client at the client’s address DEMAT Process †¢ The registered holder of the securities makes the request. †¢ Securities must be recognised by Depository as eligible. †¢ Client submits DRF & physical certificates to DP. DP checks securities. †¢ Client defaces certificates and DP punches two holes on name of company. †¢ DP enters demat request in system for Depository. †¢ DP dispatches certificates along with DRF to R&T. †¢ Depository records the details and sends to R&T. †¢ R&T agent verifies the details and confirms to Depository. †¢ Depository credits the demat securities to BO a/c of client and intimates DP electronically. †¢ DP issues statement to client

Catching Fire Journal Entry

February 17th I recently read a novel by Suzanne Collins titled, The Hunger Games. What I recall most about this book is the magnificent emphasis put on food. Every single meal eaten by the characters was described in such great detail that you would think the author was a former culinary student. As the name persists, food is a significant issue in this book. It’s a luxury for people living in the districts and a commodity for the capital. People from the districts often died of starvation while people who lived in the capital pushed a button to summons a three course meal.The person from a district who won the Hunger Games was guaranteed the fortune of food and money for the rest of their lives. Wow, what a prize! What I enjoyed most about reading this book was the way the author introduced and described all of the characters. I had a great picture in my mind about each and every character and I felt myself thinking about some of them even when they were absent from a page o r two. It became so interesting that before I could finish the book, I had to turn to the internet to look up the characters of the movie. I just had to see them in the flesh!My favorite character for most of the story was Katniss Everdeen, the beautiful, spirited tomboy. I could really relate to her like I could no other character in the book. I admired her for taking care of her little sister and especially her mother. I too, had to be the parent child in my household when growing up. I was not surprised at all when she took the place of her sister, the underdog, in the Hunger Games. Because I too, have lost someone close to me, I knew that hunting not only fulfilled the purpose to feed her family but that it helped her to cope with the death of her father, whose bow and arrows she cherished.My best friend during my teenage years was a guy named Brian, so it was easy for me to understand the relationship Katniss shared with her best friend Gale; the good looking guy that the other girls fawned over, but not her. She was not the kind of girl to go gaga over a guy’s good looks. It was an intimate relationship that grew from so many mutual feelings about life and their shared common interest. They complimented each other like peanut butter and jelly. I loved that they loved each other that way. Not like a brother and sister, who often squabble. Not like a husband and wife; it’s much deeper than that.Those relationships are tainted. Then she entered the Hunger Games and so did Peeta Mellark. Peeta was my second favorite character in the story. He was much softer around the edges than Katniss but he looked out for her like a man would look out for the woman he loves. Even before the Hunger Games, there was a time when he took a beating from his mother for burning some bread. The reason he burned the bread was so he could give it to Katniss who he knew was hungry and hiding in his back yard. It was that foreshadowing in the story that made me believe him later when he confessed his love for Katniss.Katniss was not sure about his love because she always thought it was a ploy for him to get further in the games, but I knew better. Due to the circumstances in the arena she almost convinced me a couple of times that he was not being true, but I held on fast. At times I wanted to yell at her for being so stubborn and at other times I admired her for not being so easy to fool. It was a roller coaster ride! Weather it was real or not, the romance they shared had me hooked. I felt like one of the spectators in the book itself! I was rooting for them to win the games so they could go home and live happily ever after.It was this relationship that has me looking forward to reading Catching Fire, the second book in the trilogy. I loved that Peeta came into the picture and shared emotional moments with Katniss. I know Katniss can take care of herself but I can’t resist wanting her to let Peeta take care of her emotionally. I know she can confide in Gale about her feelings, but it’s not the same; in their relationship they are equals. I recently saw a picture of Katniss, Gale and Peeta which almost guarantees a love triangle of some sort. I’m excited just thinking about it!

Virgin group and diversification strategies Article

Virgin group and diversification strategies - Article Example ly on the services to the customers, but beliefs in the value added services to the customers, they further appreciated Virgin Group for categorization of its customers into different groups, and its success in offering services of extreme variance to the customers, the aspirations and expectations of each customer has been incorporated into the diversified range of services and offers provided by the Virgin Group. Debates There is common understanding among the analysts that is 'the Virgin Group is one of those organizations where diversification has almost become a brand value in itself' (Robert, 2004). The diversification strategies adopted by the group has been responsible for the phenomenal rise in the Virgin Group's revenue, 'the sheer volume of the Virgin Group's revenues provide illustration of just how effective a diversification strategy can be in driving growth' (Robert, 2004). The Virgin Group has adopted a simple technique which is responsible for its phenomenal growth i.e. 'over-arching brand into new business areas'. It has been normally observed that when the companies are involved in different set of services, such companies launch different names for their services, however in the case of Virgin Group it's the common name which is also attributed with the success. The launch of different services and schemes under common banner has played vital role, and is regarded as crucial among t he diversification strategy. It has been observed that different companies have launched different trading names, but Virgin Group has tried to refrain itself from such scheme, it has avoided the formation of different subsidiary units and companies only 'being tailored for the market in question' (Robert, 2004). Virgin Group has successfully carried out its... There is common understanding among the analysts that is 'the Virgin Group is one of those organizations where diversification has almost become a brand value in itself' (Robert, 2004). The diversification strategies adopted by the group has been responsible for the phenomenal rise in the Virgin Group's revenue, 'the sheer volume of the Virgin Group's revenues provide illustration of just how effective a diversification strategy can be in driving growth' (Robert, 2004). The Virgin Group has adopted a simple technique which is responsible for its phenomenal growth i.e. ‘over-arching brand into new business areas'. It has been normally observed that when the companies are involved in different set of services, such companies launch different names for their services, however in the case of Virgin Group it’s the common name which is also attributed with the success. The launch of different services and schemes under common banner has played vital role, and is regarded as cr ucial among the diversification strategy. It has been observed that different companies have launched different trading names, but Virgin Group has tried to refrain itself from such scheme, it has avoided the formation of different subsidiary units and companies only 'being tailored for the market in question'. Virgin Group has successfully carried out its diversification schemes and operations under common name, the Virgin Group has ignored and avoided d previous such corporate practices where 'many entrepreneurs prefer to establish new businesses.

Systems and operations management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Systems and operations management - Essay Example It has made the work at ease in various departments but at the same time requires appropriate skill development. Role of information systems in careers in finance, accounting, HR, operations management and marketing and how the careers in information systems have been affected by new technologies and by outsourcing The various departments within the organization have in built information system for its various functions. The operation management nowadays in organizations has automated warehouses, supply chain activities, use of RFID technology, and automated inventory control. To perform such activities which are completely based on information technology proper knowledge of such software’s is required. The information system has helped in managing several tasks but has increased the level of competence that the employees should possess related to the information technology. Even in the HR departments, payroll, compensation and reward policy, managing the entire employee base is done through such systems. This has helped the administration to reduce the paperwork but at the same time it is essential for the management to impart sufficient training to the employees (Doyle, 2000, pp.156-157).The finance department nowadays in every organization has in built software for performing various activities of maintaining financial records, and producing various financial reports for the company in coordination with various other departments within the organization. The marketing department even uses the CRM software’s for effective handling of its customer’s base and even uses some integrated software’s for their product design, promotion and forecasting the market demand. The role of information systems is very high in all of the areas in the organization, which has made an increase in technical competence to sustain careers in every department. The use of ERP (enterprise resource planning)

Tesla Paper Research Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Tesla - Research Paper Example The company makes profits by selling of these components to other manufacturers that cannot produce manufacture them. Tesla stores and its galleries is one of the major ways through which the company markets its products. The company also makes use of the internet as one of the major display marketing option for online consumers. This enables the company to sell its products to consumers all over the world. With over 80 stores and galleries distributed all over, the world, specifically in Europe, Asia and North America, the company has managed to amass sales and remain ahead in the competition. This makes it always remain as a fierce competitor in the industry. The paper below discusses the financial performance of company, its value on the market using both intrinsic and market values, the ROIC, WACC and other aspects that relate to the growth and development of the company. Intrinsic value relates to the value that an asset is actually worth besides the market value. The intrinsic value relates to the real value, whereby if a disposal of the asset were to occur at that time, the company would manage to retrieve that value from its sale. What value will the buyer find the asset worth? Market values have many influences that may affect the price. These range from the aspects of inflation, recession, and speculations that surround the market activities. An intrinsic value considers the call and put options. Intrinsic value considers the value of an asset in and of itself without consideration of other external factors. Value investors consider this value of an asset in most occasions because it gives nearly the true value of the asset, thereby making investors more confident in buying the asset. These investors, when seeking a company to invest in, consider this value to give them a better understanding of the asset or company in relation to its true value. Intrinsic value determines the value of the stock in itself. This occurs through a number of ways.

Compare and contrast two social media websites, which is Facebook and Essay

Compare and contrast two social media websites, which is Facebook and Twitter, in terms of use and functions provided - Essay Example While the topic is suitable for an in-depth scientific research that involves primary data collection and study of public opinion through surveys and interviews, the scope of research of this paper is limited to the information available online. Comparison and contrast is based on the facts reported by various sources online. The procedure followed for this comparison and contrast was online research. Websites used as sources contained reliable information mostly from published papers and peer reviewed sources. Finding the required information posed the challenge of reading a lot of articles. The reported sources were verified to confirm that the information came from the sources as mentioned. The features of Facebook include but are not limited to friends, news feed, games, apps, ads, likes, text messages, live chat, photos, videos, gifts, status, links, polls, and separate pages for advertisements. The features of Twitter include tweeting, retweeting, following people, photos, videos, links, and direct messaging. Facebook’s users are over 1.28 billion in number (Diffen n.d.). Twitter’s users are over 500 million in number (Diffen n.d.). According to Tappin (2014), the number of active users on Facebook is 1.23 billion whereas the number of active users on Twitter is 232 million. The most common use of Facebook is to update the users on what is happening around them and in others’ lives. The most common use of Twitter is to speed up what is happening, â€Å"often becoming a source in and of itself† (DeMers 2013). Diversity of features matters a lot in the success of a social media website. People want everything on the same platform. They do not like switching from one site to another to use different functions. Diverse and large range of features is what makes Facebook more popular than Twitter. The number of users a social media website has tells

STA Financial Report Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

STA Financial Report - Coursework Example Marketing STA travel has a perfect market strategic plan as its branch networks are based all over the world. The company has over 68 branches and these are spread all over the world meaning the company is a common figure in over 60 countries world wide. It does not only target the youth but old people can as well us the traveling agency. The company though has a marketing plan that seems to capture the attention of mostly young people and in this case students find themselves to be the top prioritized customers. A part from being known as one of the world’s greatest travelling agency,STA travel has also invested in other business fields like hotels which are distributed all over the world. STA travel has many representatives in countries where it is based to improve its marketing for example recently it joined hands with Charleston Travel that is found in Kenya. Charleston travels has been in the market for ten years and is well know in its geographical position as good compa ny that provides high quality services since it handles people both from within and abroad. This shows how ambitious STA travels is as it merges with small but potential companies with the aim of making them famous and in this process it markets itself in a broader perspective. Competition STA travel has ventured in two fields. One being a travel agency and the other business sector. In both fields, STA experiences a stiff competition from companies like Amero express company, Carlson Wagonlit travel and Expedia Company. STA travel’s competitor have managed to be a threat to it as the offer services quite similar to those of STA travels some of these being an excellent customer relations and nice services. They are also found in many countries all over the world which is to say they are equally popular in the market. STA travel has managed t secure ways of countering the strains of the competition by advancing their levels of operation making it convenient for all its custome rs to acquire their services and stay committed to the company. STA travel is known to be a pioneer of fair and affordable prices when it comes to their services. This has been one of the methods that have helped it maintain its leading position in the market. STA has as well appointed innovative managers in various sectors of the firm. Competent managers have the right instinct to understand the right policies to undertake. (Groppelli A,Nikbakht,E,2006,pg.7) Thus knowing specific rules is important to counter specific needs.(Banks,E,2000,pg.274). Non-financial features Apart from focusing only on the company’s income generations, it has also played a role in other areas like taking part in ethnical volunteering schemes. It gives exertion holiday visas and on top of it one is able to learn various languages as there are language packages being offered. They motivate their most hard working personnel with tokens. Comparative business analysis BALANCE SHEET STA TRAVEL AGENCY FO R THE YEARS ENDED 2009, 2010 AND 2011. CURRENT ASSETS: 2009 2010 2011 Furniture and fittings $60000 $50000 $65000 Land $50000 $42000 $53000 Planes $56000 $60000 $79000 Motor vehicle $68000 $69000 $71000 Total current assets $234000 $221000 $268000 CURRENT LIABILITIES: Creditors $17000 $9000 $4000 Unpaid wages $45000 $42000 $37000 Unpaid rent $35000 $34000 $24000 Total current liabilities $97000 $85000 $65000 The above is a comparison of STA Travel Company’

S.O.A.P Analysis for the ten essays Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 6

S.O.A.P Analysis for the ten essays - Essay Example [98words] The current essay is a humorous piece, so it has more of entertaining meaning and probably was written as a kind of ‘intermezzo’. As we can see from the text itself, the author was inspired by the comical incident in the hotel room that happened to him â€Å"recently†, when he was to â€Å"introduce the president of the company to the group of customers†. However, a funny (or terrifying?) situation that occurred to Koch, made his president â€Å"give up waiting and introduce himself† without Koch’s help. Thus, there were no specific occasions for publishing this essay except entertainment and fun. [100 words] As a piece written in humorous style, ‘Naked in Orlando’ addresses no particular audience or certain group of people. The essay is obviously directed to the wide audience of readers preferring light reading. The author uses neither specific language nor references to ‘global topics’ like religion, history, nation or nature. Koch just painted his ‘horror bathroom story’ in bright colors describing his â€Å"adventure† in detail. However, even though the essay is intended for a wide audience, its humoristic nature would probably be better understood by those who are familiar with Agent MacGyver series which was on TV till early 1990’s. [100 words] The purpose of the piece is entertaining the reader and conveying the message that nobody is secured from a misfortune (either funny or serious) and sometimes only good fortune can help as it actually did when the â€Å"maintenance guy† appeared and helped the narrator out of his prison with â€Å"mirrors and high-voltage light bulbs turning it into an oven†. The author uses numerous dramatic exaggerations to make the story sound more serious and funny at the same time. Turning an ordinary nasty misfortune into an action with ‘thrilling’ descriptions and allusion to agent MacGyver help to convey the humoristic message of the piece. [100

The Four Components of Strategic Management and How They Interact with Essay

The Four Components of Strategic Management and How They Interact with Each Other - Essay Example The first component of strategic management is planning. Planning involves determining the organizational goals and how they are going to be achieved (Rothbauer-Vanish, 2009). Managers can utilize planning to forecast sales levels, inventory requirements, and labor necessities. The second component of strategic management is organizing. The managers of a company must organize all its resources in order to implement the course of action it determined in the planning process (Associatedcontent, 2011). Organizing helps companies in the implementation process of its plans. The third component of strategic management is controlling. Controlling is the process of establishing performance standards based on the firm’s objectives, measuring and reporting actual performance, comparing the two, and taking corrective and preventive action (Erven). The final component of strategic management is leading. Leading involves motivating and helping workers achieve the organizational goals of th e company. In the hospitality industry the four components of strategic management can be put to good use. Hotels have to plan how many resources such as labor are needed in order to comply with the demand of customers. For example there are more guests staying in hotels during summer season than in autumn.

Economies and social structure of New England. The British-American Essay

Economies and social structure of New England. The British-American conflict - Essay Example In the Deep South, many slaves died of overwork and diseases (Nellis 210). Production in this region went down as there was a shortage of laborers to work. On the side of Chesapeake, slaves were able to reproduce naturally, and this led to abundant source of labor to the region especially on tobacco region (Boyer 54). As Deep South and Chesapeake tried to counter diseases and low quality life, New England way of life was advancing gradually. Its clean water and cool air played a part in ensuring a healthy way of life which to a greater extent added ten years to the average English life span (Boyer 56). Social structure of the New England was much centered on strong families. Most of the families in New England concentrated much on fishing and merchant shipping due rocky soil on their lands. New Englanders became resourceful and idealistic due to the fact that they experienced difficult lives (Boyer 58). Middle colonies were similar to New England only that the majority of the people in that region were farmers. Similarities in Economies and social structure of New England, the Chesapeake/South and Middle colonies On the other hand, there were some contexts shared by the south and New England. For example, culturally, the majorities of settlers were of English origin, spoke English, and practiced English traditions (Boyer 62). Although there were restrictions of religious practices, all the colonies allowed religion freedom, but so some extent. However, the New England was seen to be more stringent about it. In all the colonies, there was a representative assembly that was democratically elected by eligible voters. In all the colonies, the issue of hereditary aristocracy was not allowed (Nellis 214). There was a belief that social mobility enabled Americans to work hard and raise their standards of living. In all the colonies, men were made the leaders, and the English law gave them unlimited powers. However, in all the colonies, women were considered to be subordinate, with much of their activities limited within homesteads. They were not allowed to vie for political positions, and were entit led to limited rights (Boyer 68). The development of the British-American conflict At first, the conflict between the British and America was triggered by the financial costs of Anglo-French wars (Middlekauff 9). It was also evident that Britain viewed American lands viable for providing law materials to Britain, and in turn makes the colonies consumers of the British manufactured goods. The American colonists were persistent in trying to negotiate the controversial policies which challenged their principles with the British parliament. Lack and limited communication between England and America was another cause of the conflict (Middlekauff 14). Boats that sailed between London and in different colonial ports of America took too much time to take back information from England. This led to widening of the gap between Americans and the British. Another concern was the fact that some Americans who served the so-called â€Å"

Free

Free Allegory of the Cave Essays and Papers Essay The transition from ignorance into knowledge in the pursuit of truth is neither a simple nor easy process. Both Sophocles’ tragedy, Oedipus Rex, and Plato’s philosophical dialogue, â€Å"The Allegory of the Cave,† use dark and light imagery to explore man’s struggle to leave an illusory life of comfort in search of absolute truth. Although Oedipus and the prisoner parallel in their challenges to seek reality, they differ in their reactions to it. Where Oedipus is unable to handle the harshness of the truth, the prisoner accepts it. By associating dark with benightedness and falsehood, and light with sight and truth, both narratives depict that man must not only discern illusion and reality in his quest for knowledge but recognize his own ignorance before he can acquire insight of the world around him. Both Oedipus and the prisoner begin in a state of ignorance, one that is falsely believed to be the reality. Thinking he has avoided fate, Oedipus firmly believes that he is in control of his life, though the reader knows that he is indeed, not. The darkness in his life is represented by his inability to see and understand the truth, as Oedipus’ hubris makes him unaware of the true circumstances of his life. He is a man so self-assured that he is not able to accept the truth when told by Teiresias. Oedipus, blind to the illusion that he is living, \ can not see the evil\(Sophocles, 354) of the crimes he has committed, and cannot view the truth for what it actually is. Teiresias, though blind in both eyes, has true knowledge and understanding of the truth, yet he is mocked by the ignorant king for his lack of sight. In Plato’s Allegory, the prisoner too, lacks knowledge and understanding of the world around him, albeit in a different matter. Where Oedipus is prevented fr om seeing the truth by his own hamartia, the prisoner is restricted by chains that hold him captive within the cave. Plato theorizes that since the cave setting is all the prisoner knows, he would believe and accept that there are no â€Å"realities† other than the â€Å"shadows of handmade things† (2). The absence of light in the cave represents the boundaries of the prisoner’s ability to see; he is unable to achieve true knowledge, as doing so would require him to â€Å"perceive the forms themselves†(1) instead of illusions cast by an artificial light. Dark symbolism clearly demonstrates the parallels between falsehood and illusion in both works, but to achieve true insight, one must pursue a state of knowledge through a strenuous application of insight and reason. The journey to leave the shadows to follow the light is not as favorable as one may be, as true knowledge is harsher and more difficult to accept that the comfort of darkness. Oedipus is relentless in his pursuit of truth in order to catch Laios’ murderer and save his city of Thebes from the plague. Still stuck in his life of illusion, he is determined to â€Å"bring what is light to dark† (135), unaware that his persistence will only cause more problems. He curses the murderer of Laios in his ignorance, wishing the culprit’s life to be consumed in â€Å"evil and wretchedness† (Sophocles, 235). Unbeknownst to him, the sufferings he wishes for do come true, though not in the way he believes. In contrast, The prisoner, having spent his whole life in imprisonment, does not wish to look at what is bright. Too â€Å"dazzled† by the light of the fire to see clearly, he has to be dragged out â€Å"by forceinto the light of the sun† (Plato, 2). He sl owly adjusts to his new environment, and once turned to what is more â€Å"real,† the prisoner realizes that the shadows in the cave were only images of â€Å"foolery,† cast by real objects (2). It is here that the prisoner is seen transitioning from illusion to reality Absolute truth is harsh, and both Oedipus and the prisoner struggle to accept it. Though he strived to do good by himself and his city, Oedipus, unfortunately, brings about his own tragic end by relentlessly pursuing the truth and ignoring warnings of how â€Å"dreadful† (Sophocles, 305) knowledge can be. His quest to find answers does eventually lead him to the absolute truth, but at a heavy cost. Finally realizing the consequences of his actions, and unable to face the evil and horror of his â€Å"blind wrongs† (404), Oedipus looks upon the â€Å"Light†(1037) one final time before gouging out his eyes. Here, light imagery represents truth and knowledge, and although the truth is what Oedipus has so relentlessly pursued, in the end, it is too harsh and he instead chooses to return to the dark. To him, The prisoner, though initially reluctant to explore reality, ultimately achieves enlightenment, represented by his ability to â€Å" look on the sun itself† (Plato, 2). There is a great divide between reality and falsehood. Through the use of contrasting imagery, both Sophocles and Plato illustrate the plights of humanity in the journey to achieve enlightenment and explore the trials man must go through to achieve a similar goal. Through the journeys of Oedipus and the prisoner, the reader understands that however easy one may believe the quest for truth to be, it is often not so, as to achieve absolute truth, man must realize his own unenlightenment before he can perceive things in their true forms.

Russo-Turkey Relations and the Middle East

Russo-Turkey Relations and the Middle East Abstract The relation which Turkey share with Russia in the recent decades has been an example of truly bonding nature. Over a prolonged friendly relation for more than two decades, Turkey’s relations with Russia exacerbated first when it shot Russian bomber jet over the Syrian border and secondly the unfortunate killing of Russian ambassador which happened in Ankara. These incidents surely put a question mark on the peaceful relations of Turkey with Russia. Whether what the reality be, Turkey is accused for stabbing Russia in the back. These sore tending acts initially resulted in various sanctions posed by Russia against Turkey. In this alarming situation where crises have overtaken most of; Europe, Middle Eastern region and Russia, this rivalry may caution many states in the coming world order. Preface The crisis in the Middle Eastern region has brought in its wake a perceptible shift in Russo-Turkey relations in the contemporary arena. At first, the downing of a Russian Su-24 bomber jet by Turkish F-16 fighter over the Syrian-Turkish border bewailed the President of Russia. The subsequent reaction of that incident provided a great index of the deterioration between both. Secondly, the assassination of the Russian ambassador Andrey Karlov in Turkey put a stamp on Turkey’s goodwill in the sights of Russia. Russia was once considered a bitter enemy of Turks. In the contemporary arena, several ingredients have refreshed the erstwhile tensions as witnessed in the Tsarist and Ottoman eras. With the passage of time, the interaction between them has been fluctuating in keeping with the geographic and leadership transformation. By far, Syrian crisis is the latest point of contradiction between them, representing diverging interests. This is becoming a test case for the two for demon strating their lost-power in the wake of contemporary transformations in the world order from unipolar to multipolar. The policies of both the states towards Syria run counter to each other. Russia has shared a strong economic partnership with Syria, fact being that it (Syria) has remained a major beneficiary of Russian weaponry while Turkish Prime Minister, in 2012 called on Bashar al Assad to step down as the President of Syria. No doubt, there are convergences and divergences between Russia and Turkey to project their policies with each other as well as other stakeholders of the region. This paper is intended to analyse the Russo-Turkey relations in the backdrop of their interests in the Middle East, following the significance, convergences and divergences of their relations which have given rise to their contemporary role in the arena. After the discussion on the matter, this paper has extracted the role of Pakistan and has suggested way forward for Pakistan’s foreign policy concerning the subject matter. Why Middle East matters the most to Russia and Turkey? The critical interests of Russia and Turkey both lies in the Middle East. However they do not tend to be the same. Under the umbrella of NATO, Turkey is exercising its policies as an independent state in the Middle Eastern crisis. Syria, Iraq and Iran being border stitched to Turkey are perceived to be under strong observations of Turkish policy makers. While Russia, not a NATO member has a different framework for the region, particularly its need for the Mediterranean Sea, weaponry market and trading of oil and gas is apparent. Mediterranean Sea links Russia with Eastern Mediterranean Sea, the Middle East and North Africa. So any situation of conflict, war or unease in these regions has impact on Russia’s political position. There are number of factors that are driving the Turkish policy in which Saudi Arab is a part. Turkey has made it clear that it wants the overthrow of Assad. This is the first time in its history that Turkey adopts a regime-change strategy. When the United States decided to counter ISIS with the help of possible regional alliance, Turkey refused to get actively involved unless the coalition were to target both ‘Assad’ and ISIS at the same time. It is clear that Ankara favours a war to the end of weakening all parts: Assad, ISIS, the Kurds and Iran. Yet it always preferred to rely on proxies and calls on NATO and the international community to intervene in Syria. It was because of this very tactic that Ankara allowed the Peshmerga (Iraqi Kurdish forces) to enter the Syrian town of Kobane through Turkey to help the Syrian Kurds in the battle against ISIS and this is again the reason why it decided to support the jihadists in Syria. While, Russia is seen more as to helping its friend Assad in the play as recently it condemned the United States’ air strike on Syria’s chemical launch pads. Syria is the only country in the region which has Russia’s base(s). Continuing its efforts to play a role and get hold of the oil, gas and other economic factors, Russia’s stance on Middle East policy is evident and strong in its intentions. Significance of Russia-Turkey relations Under the leadership of Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Russia and Turkey signed mutual agreements and MoUs for increasing both countries’ relations in terms of trade and cooperation.Turkey has remained one of Russia’s main trading partners. Both share huge amount of business in the sectors of energy, tourism and trade. The statistics show a viable flow of synergy between both. There is a proposed construction of a gas pipeline as well as the Akkuyu power plant, which may be affected after downing of a Russian jet by Turkey as a disputed incident. According to a Turkish academic, any damage to the infrastructure deals could be significant, because Turkey imports 55 percent of its natural gas from Russia and 30 percent of its oil. â€Å"Turkey has close strategic ties with Russia in terms of energy relationship with Russia, so it may be that the Turkish Stream project as well as the nuclear energy project – which is going to be constructed by the Russians could be affected, Professor Gurkan Kumbaroglu from Bogazici Universitys department of engineering, told CNBC. So it is apparent if any sort of clash of ideas occur in Russo-Turkey relations, Russia has its hands on the switch to constrain Turkey politically without involving any armed conflict. Similarly, Russia’s tourism department entertains much of Turkey’s tourism industry as 3.6 million Russians visited Turkey in the first nine months of 2013, according to the latest statistics of Russia’s Federal Tourism Agency. This definitely adds a lot to Turkish economy and proved Russia has the power to restrict its citizens to travel Turkey in the emergence of any dispute between the two countries. On the other hand, trade is the most primary sector which both countries has shared since few decades with tremendous outcomes. Turkish vegetable exports account for some 20 percent of vegetable exports to Russia. In 2014, according to Turkish foreign trade statistics, exports to Russia were worth $5.9 billion while imports from Russia were worth $25.2 billion. This scenario is more prone to absolute gains rather than relative gains because not only Turkey relies on Russian oil, gas and energy but Russia’s dependency on Turkish geostrategic location is a perfect example to say Turkey is also at gains. Convergences of Russia-Turkey relations Contemporary Russia did not take Turkey as an independent state and always restrained to be in connection with it until 2003 when surprisingly The Justice and Development Party of Turkey refused to allow American forces to use Turkish territory to invade Iraq. This proved to be a game changer for Russia’s perception towards Turkey. The relations furthered in a positive way leaving the footprints of Cold War era outside the door when Turkey, as a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, was considered a frontline state in the divide between the communist bloc and the western bloc. Surprisingly, given the unrest in the North Caucasus and the Balkans on which issue the policies of Ankara and Moscow clashed, these relations changed. The tangible convergences between the duos can be elaborated as under: Turkey’s need of oil and gas is one of the major convergence in the Russo-Turkey relations. The economic interests of both countries meet but there are points of divergence in various strategic plans to extend oil and gas pipelines between countries of the Central Asia, and the Middle East on the one hand and the European market on the other.   So, they need to act rationally towards each other to organize their interests. Russia’s dependency on Turkey is also apparent because Turkey might remain Russia’s necessary gateway to the Mediterranean, just as the Ottoman Empire was in the past. Nonetheless, there has been efforts to institutionalize relations between the two countries which, in the form of Turkish-Russian Cooperation Council in April and May 2010 got established. Since then the two leaders of the country have met annually. It has put a lot of impact on the international image of bilateral relations of Russia and Turkey because leaders from both sides warmly welcomed each other since then. Divergences, clashes and disputes There have been large number of conflicts ever since the Tsarist Russia and Ottoman Empire since 1560s. The Russian side won more battles than Turkey which clearly indicates the significance of geographic disposition of Russia. However, Crimean War led Russia lose due to possible stronger alliance of Ottomans with British, French and Italian forces. While in the contemporary world, Turkey’s neighbourhood has been in a turmoil, mainly Middle Eastern countries, which has directly influenced Turkey’s dealings with Europe and Russia. Today, the changed relationship between Turkey and Russia has been affected by strategic considerations and political interests relating to the current reality in the Middle East. Especially the crisis in Syria has moved both Turkey and Russia oppositely in terms of national interests. The two countries are not on the same pitch regarding the crisis. Turkey has clearly taken steps to remove the regime of Assad whereas Russia regards Assad’s ongoing leadership as a necessary condition to cope with the turmoil in the collapsed state. Preservation of its own strategic interests in the Middle East, Russia is sensitive in providing support to Assad. The conflict of interests between Turkey and Syria includes border issues, questions pertaining to water and riparian rights, religious outlook, political-military orientation, drug-trafficking, smuggling, terrorism (Kurdish insurgency), and espionage etc. Analysis Syrian crisis and all the history of Russo-Turkey relations aside, today, it is thought that Turkey has created a trust deficit in relation to its bilateral relations with Russia. On the other hand Russia is also thought to have taken Turkish early warnings serious. However, there was not a serious threat to Turkey from Russia. Perhaps, Turkey could have considered many points of conflict before downing a Russian jet which was merely on its airspace (according to Russian narrative of the incident) at Turkey-Syria border. Russia in no time retaliated and adopted a political approach launching serious sanctions against Turkey. The trauma was not much concerning the policies of Turkey or Russia towards Syrian crisis but shooting down a Russian jet paved a way of thinking for the Russians to analyse Turkey’s intentions and goals for the coming days. Subsequently Russia accused Turkey of being in business with the Islamic State of Syria. Similar reactions are observed from Turkish side as well. The war of words between the leaders of both countries have definitely evoked state of unease and unrest to their bilateral relations. The conflict however is not seen as beneficial for any side at all. Russia, despite of its potential projects in Turkey, has unilaterally signed sanctions against it. However there are no signs of waging a war by any of them against each other. In recent decades, Russia and Turkey have shared friendly and cooperative relations sharing economic, trade, military and projects related to energy sector. Both have respected each other’s view in the international decision-making process. The issue is not only limited to the interests of both the countries, but then again there are risk factors which are giving shape to their policies. Turkey is not land locked, but still it’s a jigsaw which connects whole Asia with the Europe. This puts a lot of responsibility for any leader of the Turkey to stand head to head against any turmoil which may disrupt country’s repute in the international arena. While Russia, despite being connected with many states, has to depend on the market of Middle East, European countries and specifically Turkey to constitute its trade, military, economic and foreign policy for survival as a state. It is clear that international relations are uncertain and unpredictable, both are crucially unparalleled to each other and the lack of trust between them is now a bone of contention. However, with the passage of time, relations may grip instead of losing its charm because Russia may digest what happened, or Turkey, which is not apparent at all, might apologize for its act of downing a Russian jet. Because, in an emerging world order into multi polarity, the interests of others may urge Russia and Turkey to rethink of their relations in a positive manner. Foreign policy guidelines for Pakistan in case of Russia-Turkey conflict The conflict of ideas between Russian and Turkish relations hasn’t directly influenced Pakistan to take any action of concern. However Pakistan does share points of convergences with both in terms of trade, educational exchange programs and tourist activities. In a nutshell, Pakistan and Turkey define each other as ‘sister countries’, and the friendly relations of both as a Muslim state is the apex of their strong bonds. On the other hand, while not overriding its relations with India, Russia has shown great interest to re-establish its bilateral relations with Pakistan. This can succeed the idea for Pakistan to maintain a balanced foreign policy towards Turkey and Russia in this matter. Yet again the ill-timed row between Russia and Turkey has subjugating power to keep Pakistan a neutral observer. At this point in time, Pakistan as a member of global community, having its national interests in Turkey, Russia and other Middle Eastern countries, has a shared responsibility to play positive role for the betterment of relations between them. In a limited context, Pakistan may adopt a policy of deescalating the tensions between both and suggest measures of cooperation and coordination to tackle the situation. Not to forget, Yemen crisis affected thousands of Pakistani citizens and resulted in their departure from Yemen. This puts Pakistan in a situation to tactfully regulate its obligation to work for the betterment of its own citizens while maintaining sustainable relations with other countries. Pakistan can beget neutralizing role to the hard lined tensions between Turkey and Russia and may need to facilitate both for the emergence of pleasant and reputed ties. Readings http://russiancouncil.ru/en/inner/?id_4=6978#top-content http://en.trend.az/azerbaijan/karabakh/1616142.html http://www.huffingtonpost.com/aylin-unver-noi/turkey-and-russia-days-of_b_8695800.html http://tass.ru/en/economy/764152 http://studies.aljazeera.net/en/positionpapers/2013/05/20135795421533494.htm http://www.rubincenter.org/2012/04/russo-turkish-divergence-part-i-the-security-dimension/ http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-34971902 http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2015/11/24/world/middleeast/russia-turkey-jet-shoot-down-maps.html http://www.azernews.az/analysis/90476.html http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2015/Oct-09/318233-turkey-warns-russia-energy-ties-at-stake.ashx http://www.jpost.com/Middle-East/The-confrontation-between-Turkey-and-Russia-Lessons-for-Israel-436236 http://www.reuters.com/article/us-syria-crisis-turkey-nato-idUSKBN0TJ14F20151130?utm_source=Facebook http://tribune.com.pk/story/1001173/turkey-will-not-apologise-for-downing-russian-fighter-jet-pm/ http://tribune.com.pk/story/1000436/russia-announces-economic-sanctions-against-turkey-over-jet-downing/ https://www.rt.com/op-edge/323430-russian-plane-down-turkey-us-nato/ http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/turkey-russia-tensions_5655c9dbe4b08e945fea945b http://www.cnsnews.com/news/article/latest-russian-pilot-says-no-warnings-turkey http://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/77659-turkey-would-have-acted-differently-if-it-had-known-jet-was-russian-erdogan https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/worldviews/wp/2015/10/09/how-the-rivalry-between-russians-and-turks-shaped-the-world/ http://www.sigmalive.com/en/blog/zenonas.tziarras/2015/06/963/turkey-and-saudi-in-syria-aligned-interests-clashing-revisionisms http://tribune.com.pk/story/860335/every-effort-being-made-for-evacuation-of-pakistanis-from-yemen-fo/ http://www.dailysabah.com/diplomacy/2015/05/17/pakistan-and-turkey-are-two-leading-countries-in-the-islamic-world

Effectiveness of self instructional module in immunizations

Effectiveness of self instructional module in immunizations Abstract Immunization is the one of the most important and cost effective strategies for the prevention of childhood sicknesses and disabilities and it is a basic need for all children. Seven killer diseases causes a major threat to children and this decreases the health status and making them more vulnerable to infectious disease. The major cause for death is vaccine preventable diseases such as neonatal tetanus, measles, TB, diphtheria, pertusis, polio and Hepatitis B. Infectious diseases are now the worlds biggest killer of children and young adults. They account for more than 13 million deaths a year one in two deaths in developing countries. The present study objective was â€Å"to evaluate the effectiveness of self instructional module.† The Pre- experimental one group pre test and post test design was adopted. The sample of 100 mothers of under-five children selected by convenient sampling technique. A structured knowledge questionnaire was adopted to collect the data from the samples. Descriptive and inferential statistics was used in data analysis. The result of study shown that there was significant difference in the mean post test score. The findings reveals that pre test and post test mean knowledge of mothers of under-five children regarding vaccine preventable diseases is 8.5(SD+3.95) and 16.33(SD+4.79) respectively. Post test mean knowledge score higher than pre test mean score. The‘t’ test value was 12.54 which was significant at 0.05 level. Hence it is concluded that the self instructional module was effective to increase the knowledge of mothers of under five children. This study recommends that similar study can be undertaken on large sample to generalize the findings. Study can be done to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice of nurses regarding vaccine preventable diseases. Keywords: Self instructional module, knowledge, vaccine preventable diseases, mothers of under- five children. I. Introduction Children are fortunately being recognized as people in their own right with their special requirements. Quality survival of the human race depends on provision of adopt care to his vulnerable population in their formative and developmental life years. Therefore Health services for children should be aimed at improving the future quality of human resources of the nation by enabling as many children as possible to reach adulthood with their potential uncompromised by illness, environmental hazards, or unhealthy lifestyle. According to WHO â€Å"Health is a state of complete physical, mental, and social wellbeing and not merely absence of disease or infirmity In India diseases like guinea worm, small pox has been eradicated since 1947 and now poliomyelitis is near to eradicate. In developed countries like in India 68 out of 1000 under-five children were dying each year and another 5 million were disabled by infectious diseases. The vaccination of children against infectious diseases (tuberculosis, diphtheria, pertusis, tetanus, poliomyelitis, measles and hepatitis B) has been a cornerstone of the child health care system in India. As a part of the National Health Policy, the National Immunization Programme is has been implemented on a priority basis. Awareness building about immunization of children, who are under five years of age, provides a sense of responsibility towards the need of the children and their protection. The involvement of mothers in immunization programme help in reduces seven killer diseases. Those mothers who are living in tribal and rural areas mainly ignore the immunization and they do not vaccinate their children. Some mothers have misconception about immunization and they believe their children can catch diseases if they immunize their children. To prevent seven killer diseases it is necessary to screen every child for immunization, coverage opportunities; otherwise full immunization coverage may not be possible. Delayed immunization is associated with low socio-economic status, female illiteracy, lack of knowledge on Vaccine Preventable Diseases as recommended by Universal Programme Immunization (UPI). II. Review of literature A comparative study was conducted to estimate the vaccination coverage level of children aged between 19-35 months living in rural and urban area in Kolar District of Bangalore. The result of study revealed that Statistically significant differences in vaccination coverage levels between the rural population and their urban counterparts were determined for individual vaccines and vaccine series as evidenced by 28% of the children were covered by immunization residing in rural areas whereas 46% were covered in Urban area. The study recommended that health care personnel need to execute the awareness among the needy population of the Kolar District. A study was conducted upon improving status of underfive children through awareness and knowledge of mothers regarding vaccine preventable diseases through health education messages and compare them with those without intervention. An increase of 19 % to 22 % increase was seen in the utilization of vaccination. The mother’s knowledge increased in the follow up from 60 % to 76.5% and the immunization status increased significantly from 46.5% to 75 % after the intervention. The surveys show that the health education messages significantly increased the vaccination status of children of under five years. A study was conducted to assess the knowledge of caretakers of underfive children in a pulse polio immunization booth in the Delhi. A semi –open-ended questionnaire was used. Study results showed that Only 252 (37.0%) respondent correctly answered, 176 (25.8%) gave a wrong answer while the remaining 37.2% gave no answer. While 268 (39.3%) knew at least of four diseases covered by universal immunization programme, only 23.9% knew all four diseases. The researcher concluded that immunization status needs to be improved by educating mothers and caregivers regarding immunization. A quasi experimental study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of structured teaching programme (STP) among 50 mothers of underfive children in selected paediatric hospital, Pondicherry. A closed ended questionnaire was used to collect the data followed by intervention of STP. The study finding shows that the post-test knowledge score (22.73) was higher than the pre-test knowledge score (12.78). The study claimed that STP is effective to enhance mother’s mother knowledge regarding the importance of immunization. The study recommended that nursing personnel should continue in health teaching approach especially to the health problems which can be prevented. III. Purpose of the Study: The purpose of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of self instructional module regarding vaccine preventable diseases among the mothers of under-five children; this is achieved by one group pre and post test knowledge score obtained by the subjects under the study. This study also obtaining answer to research hypothesis. IV. Methodology: A Pre- experimental research design with one group pre test and post test design, to measure the effectiveness of self instructional module. The study was conducted at selected areas in Tarn Taran. Subjects were selected by convenient sampling technique. Structured knowledge questionnaire was used to collect data. Part-I: Socio demographic variables. This part is consist of variables such as age, educational status of mothers, type of family, occupation, religion, family monthly income, no. of children and source of information. Part-II Structured knowledge Questionnaire: It consists 36 items of objective type questions related to knowledge on vaccine preventable diseases. Each item contains four alternative responses. The knowledge questions are chosen from seven common vaccine preventable diseases likely, Tuberculosis, Diphtheria, Measles, Polio, Tetanus, Whooping cough and Hepatitis B. All the items were given equal score. Each correct answer was given a score of 1 and wrong answe rs a score of 0. Thus maximum score was 36 and minimum score was zero. The questionnaire was prepared in English and Punjabi languages. Reliability of an instrument is the degree of consistency with which it measures the attribute it is designed to measure. The reliability of the tool was assessed by collecting data from 10 mothers of under-five children from selected areas in Tarn Taran. The reliability of structured knowledge questionnaire was computed by Split half method i.e by calculating co-efficient correlation first and then by applying Spearman Brown prophecy formula. The reliability of structured knowledge questionnaire was 0.96 and thus found to be highly reliable. Ethical clearance had been obtained from ethical committee, prior permission for conducting the research was obtained from Municipal Corporation of District Tarn Taran and informed consent was taken from mothers of under-five children. The data was analysed by using descriptive and inferential statistics. V. Data Analysis Section A: Analysis of Socio -Demographic characteristics of the samples Table 1: Frequency and Percentage Distribution of Demographic Variables Table no.1 indicates the Majority of subjects 37% are in the age group of 21-25 years, about 25% were in the age group of 30 years. About 36% mothers were secondary educated, 24% were primary educated and minimum no. 20% were Graduate and another 20% respondents were of post-Graduate. Majority of subjects 30% were house wife, 26% were non-government employee, 24% were government and 20% mothers were self employee. About half of respondents were 47 % belong to Sikh religion, 32% were of Hindu, 14% mothers were Christian and 7% were belong to other religion. Majority of mothers 60% were belong to nuclear family and other 40% belong to joint family. 38% subjects were in the family income group of >15000. 26% were in the group of 10000-15000, 20 % were comes under the group of 5000-10000 and minimum number of subjects 16% belongs SECTION B: To assess the level of knowledge regarding vaccine preventable diseases among the mother of under five children before and after self instructional module administration. Table 2(a)Grading the knowledge of samples regarding vaccine preventable diseases in pre-test.N=100 The above table 2(a) shows that most of the of samples 76% had inadequate knowledge, 24% of samples had moderately adequate knowledge regarding vaccine preventable diseases and there was no adequate knowledge samples regarding vaccine preventable diseases. Table 2(B): Grading Of Knowledge Regarding Vaccine Preventable Diseases Among Mothers Of Under-Five Children In Post Test N = 100 Table 2(b) shows that most of the samples 67% had moderately adequate knowledge, 16% of samples had adequate knowledge and 17% of samples had inadequate knowledge regarding vaccine preventable diseases in post-test. SECTION C: Table 3: Mean and standard deviation of pre test and post test knowledge regarding vaccine preventable diseases among samples. Table 3 shows that mean score of pre test and post test of samples regarding vaccine preventable diseases is 8.55 (SD + 3.95) and 16.33 (SD + 4.79) respectively. Post test mean score was higher than the pre test mean scores the‘t’ test value is 12.54 which was significant at 0.05 level as (p>0.05). SECTION D: Association Between The Post Test Knowledge Sores And Selected Socio Demographic Variables TABLE-4: Analysis of Association between the post test knowledge sores and with selected socio demographic variables Table 4 shows that the association between post test knowledge score and socio- demographic variables such as education, occupation, no. of children and type of family of mothers of under-five children found significant as calculated values greater than table values at the level of (0.05). The association between knowledge score and the socio- demographic variables score of mothers, religion, family monthly income and source of information found non significant as the calculated value is less than the tabulated value at 0.05 level of significance. VI. Limitation and Research Needed The size of the sample was 100; hence it was difficult to make broad generalizations. No attempt was made to control extraneous variables. This study recommends the following further research. The study can be replicated on large samples for wider generalization Comparative study can be done on knowledge among urban and rural mothers regarding vaccine preventable diseases. Study can be done on the knowledge of health personnel regarding vaccine preventable diseases. A study can be done to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice of nurses regarding vaccine preventable diseases. VII. Conclusion As good health is very important for each individual and knowledge regarding v