401(k) Plans :: Finance Financial Money Retirement Essays

401(k) Plans      There are numerous monetary issues confronting the country today. While some are critical in deciding how the economy is adjusted, others are definitely not. In spite of the fact that this is valid, that doesn't really make these lesser significant issues out of date. Take, for instance, the ongoing issue of corporate pioneers coordinating supporters of the 401(k) plan with organization stock, rather than with money. Despite the fact that this is a moderately National issue, it still incredibly influences a enormous number of individuals in outside territories just as you and me. Along these lines impact on such an enormous number of individuals, it is vital that this issue be talked about, as will occur inside the following hardly any passages.      In the way that a 401(k) stock coordinating arrangement is set up; timing is everything. In an essential 401(k) plan workers set forth a set measure of dollars (normally pre-decided actually by the representative) before charges are retained This segment of the representative's check is put toward their retirement. What a few organizations want to do so as to make the 401(k) plan more appealing for workers, is to coordinate every representative's interest in the arrangement by a specific percent. Here is the place the issue comes in. Despite the fact that a few organizations coordinate supporters either with money or with an immediate credit to the arrangement, other organizations coordinate with corporate stock. As indicated by Richard Sasanow, a previous right hand of open correspondences at Ernst and Young, numerous specialists consider this to be probably the most dangerous speculation for a 401 (k)- yet might be justified, despite all the trouble if you think your organization has an incredible future. (Sasanow, 45) An ongoing study appears that 18 percent of all organizations made their coordinating commitments along these lines. Presently for little, quickly developing organizations this would not appear as a very remarkable hazard since these organizations' stock are by and large on the expansion. However, for some enormous partnerships, this is an extraordinary hazard for workers since a great deal of their retirement cash is presently founded on how well the organization does.      Some state that since commitment coordinating is currently founded on how well the organization does, at that point workers will endeavor to do an increasingly effective activity so as to increment the general stock cost of the organization, which, thusly, will increment the measure of retirement they will get. Presently the issue of timing comes in once more. Mr. Jim Davenport, a Staff Writer for The State Newspaper utilizes a decent model: A nonexistent laborer for an oil organization was anticipating resigning toward the week's end. His 401(k) is fat and has been getting fatter on account of organization stock.

Beethoven 2nd Novel Example

Beethoven second Novel Example Beethoven second Novel †Book Report/Review Example Film Review: Beethovens second Your Full Beethovens second The film Beethovens second was composed by Len Blum and coordinated by Rod Daniel. The characters in the film were George, Alice, Ryce, Ted and Emily - they are the Newtons family who claims Beethoven. Regina was the scoundrel in the film, and was helped by her beau, Floyd. Brillo was Reginas future ex, as they were on the way toward getting separated. Likewise in the characters was Missy, the woman St. Bernard that Beethoven begins to look all starry eyed at and her four little dogs which were named Chubby, Doll, Tchaikovsky and Moe. The film started in the place of the Newtons, where the family, along with Beethoven, has some way or another changed in accordance with their life. The plot starts when Regina and Brillo would have a separation. Regina needed to get some cash from Brillo, which drove all her Missy under her authority. Missy got away from Reginas home with Beethoven, Ted and Emilys help however was later on recl aimed by her mean proprietor. The Newtons children and Regina discovered that Missy had little dogs too, and this made Regina need to dispose of them as well. Ted and Emily brought the little dogs subtly in their home and dealt with them. They even woke up in the center of the night to take care of them. Be that as it may, George discovered what his children were doing and was irate in light of the fact that he needed to manage developing mutts once more. Because of budgetary troubles, the Newtons needed to move in a house close to the mountains and Beethoven thought the little dogs were at that point safe, however he later realized he wasn't right. At the nation reasonable that George and Beethoven took an interest in, Regina and Floyd saw them, and everything prompted one pursue another. Regina took the doggies from the Newtons while Beethoven and Missy had the option to run away to the backwoods. Regina and Floyd tailed them, and the Newtons understanding that the young doggies w ere taken, pursued Regina. As Floyd endeavored to drop the little dogs into the waterway, Beethoven made a chivalrous move which made Floyd and Regina tumble down the stream and escaped. At long last, the Newtons kept the pups and dealt with them, and Missy was brought together with Brillo, and everybody was upbeat. The topic of the film is being useful, similarly as how Beethoven helped Missy, Ryce and the little dogs in the film. Aiding without sitting tight for any prize is the best type of affection even canines can give.

Dishwashers, parents, space what do these things have in common

Dishwashers, parents, space what do these things have in common This entry was inspired by a Washington Post article about how the use of a dishwasher is the last frontier in an immigrant household, an indication of complete Americanization. The dishwasher is a rare kitchen appliance in most countries outside of the US and apparently many immigrants resist using them because they think they are a superfluous waste of electricity and the job can be better accomplished by hand washing. Unfortunately, whenever I wash my dishes in my halls sink (which measures about 1 cu. Ft.), I hope and pray that somehow, perhaps for Christmas, a dishwasher will magically appear in our lounge, fresh from Santas bag and ready to clean months of caked-on food. I abhor washing dishes in our tiny sink, where more water ends up on your clothes and the counter than on the dishes, so much so that I have switched to using mostly paper plates. But, I realized that before coming to college, I took my homes dishwasher completely for granted. Loading and unloading the dishwash er was a daily burden and I often wanted to hit it with a sledge hammer since it beeps every 15 minutes once it is done running, to remind us that it needed to be emptied. I took advantage of it, basically, and once I came to college I realized that the dishwasher is on a long list of things that make life so much more enjoyable, but are too commonplace at home to realize how great they are. So, Ive compiled a list! For the prefrosh out there, hopefully you will read this and appreciate your cushy life a little more. And for the college students, you are not alone. 1) Parents Yes, they nag, impose curfews, tell you to clean your room, do your homework, empty the dishwasher (ha!), pick up your sister, study for the SATs, fill out college applications, eat your vegetables, etc. But, it turns out that they do a lot of great stuff too (who would have thought?), things that overshadow their seemingly constant instructions. In college, if you fall (physically and metaphorically), who will kiss it and make it all feel better? The MIT Medical nurse? No, she doesnt want to get near your blood, God knows what kind of diseases you harbor, you dirty college student. Your roommate? Ditto, she was listening in health class. Your advisor? Rightttt! I think most people really miss home the first time they get sick. As you sit miserably in your bed, too wiped to even get up to go to the bathroom, your mind wanders and you begin to hallucinate that your parents are walking into your room, bringing you movies, soup, and medicine and telling you to stay home from school while taking your temperature. Here? The best youve got is a nice roommate who will make you tea and buy you a sandwich. Youre on your own, baby. 2)Large beds- College dorm rooms are all fitted with extra long twin beds, a crucial factoid when buying sheets. Dont buy normal twin sheets, they will be 5 too short what those few inches gets you I have yet to find out. Maybe Im just not tall enough to appreciate it. I will grow 5 and then write an article about how I took extra long beds for granted, too. Anyway, at home, I have a full-sized bed; boy was I spoiled by 4,050 sq. in. of plush mattress. Here, I get a squeaky 3,120, with a mattress stained with God knows what by God knows who. I am also sleeping on a bunk bed (to save space, #6 on this list), for the first time in my life (beyond occasional trips and sleepovers), and my poor roomie has to sleep on the top bunk. Unfortunately, the bunk bed designers werent quite clever enough to design any sort of ladder to get to the top bed, so my roommate performs incredible feats of acrobatics, which I am sure will be enough training for at least a Bronze medal in the Olympics. Id like to think that I was the cause of that one. 3)Dishwashers (already covered that one.) 4)Cars Its 1:30 AM and youre at 77 Mass. Ave. Or its 9:25 AM and youre in front of your dorm (trying to make it to a 9:30 class.) Or its 5:30 PM and youre in front of the supermarket. What do all of these situations have in common? You are waiting for the Safe Ride, MITs campus shuttle, which is late or maybe not even coming. Safe Ride is usually very helpful and many people are spending a lot of time and money to make the system better, and I thank them for that. But, nothing is quite like a car. Granted, paying for gas is like pulling teeth and I cant tell you how happy I am that I dont have to do it, but walking two miles with 20 pounds of groceries distributed around my body isnt quite my idea of fun. Also not fun: walking an equal distance in the snow and sleet, when its -20 degrees outside. Cars, with their beautiful heated seats and protection from the elements, are where its at. 5)Bathrooms This is a big one. You know youre cool and well adjusted when you can rattle off which showers have a combination of high water pressure and a functioning drain. Well, you also know that you are very lucky, because it does not happen often. Once I came to college, I had to nix my showering routine which consisted of singing along to my bathroom radio while soaking in bliss for extended periods of time. Here? We dont have bathtubs, I know some dorms do, but it makes it difficult to enjoy your shower when you barely have enough room to lift up your elbows. And at home, remember when your bathroom had tons of cool books and magazines? The John was a place of peace and comfort, where you were insulated from the havoc occurring outside of your personal oasis. I dont think anyone would consider their dorms bathroom to be anything close. Instead, its a place to get grossed out by hairballs, frustrated by the dearth of toilet paper, or embarrassed when someone sees you tromping a round in your towel. My friend from Dartmouth was telling me a story about how she came home one night to find that her bathroom had been completely ransacked, the towel rack was pulled off the wall and there was *insert name of human excrement here* smeared everywhere. It doesnt get nearly that bad here, but you get the gist. 6)Space- There are singles in Baker that are called coffins. Enough said. Most dorm rooms have the square footage of one of your closets back home. College students are masters of the game Jenga, since we get a lot of practice in our rooms. The art of piling dirty dishes, course bibles, clothes, CDs, anything and everything, is mastered after a few weeks here. Fortunately, we cant complain too much about rooms here, since most have such amazing views that if you stare out of the window enough then you dont have to look around your actual room. 7)Privacy, or the lack thereof- It is tough to get alone time in college. Remember that scene in Theres Something About Mary where shes singing into her hairbrush microphone and dancing in her underwear? Yea, dont try that here, someone in your hall will take your picture and immortalize it on the web. 8)Siblings 9)Freezers 10)Reliable HVAC Dont get me wrong, college is great and I LOVE it here. The lack of the above items is part of the experience and college also has its perks (many of them.) But, you know, I just felt like reminiscing and complaining. Feel free to add to this list, in the comments sections or just complain in general (about psets, boyfriends/girlfriends, the weather, whatever you want.) Get it all out, youll feel better.

The Importance Of The Declaration Of Independence - 911 Words

An excerpt from the â€Å"Speech at the Virginia Convention† orated by Patrick Henry encapsulates the 1770’s into a precise statement: â€Å"I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty, or give me death!†. These powerful words exemplify what one of the most important decades in human history revolved around. A struggle for freedom. While freedom can be defined in many differing ways, the colonists of the British Colonies and their elected delegates seeked to obtain economic freedom from their mother country. The months spent in a Philadelphia hall shaped this movement of liberty and the United States of America for centuries. The Second Continental Congress, while incredible in its accomplishments, did not do so without†¦show more content†¦Massachusetts delegate John Adams wrote in his autobiography the individuals that would form this document. â€Å"The Committee of Independence, were Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman and Robert R. Livingston. Mr. Jefferson had been now about a Year a Member of Congress, but had attended his Duty in the House but a very small part of the time and when there had never spoken in public: and during the whole Time I satt with him in Congress, I never heard him utter three Sentences together†. John Adams, a proponent of this committee and of independence, is rightfully skeptical of Jefferson’s ability to complete the document, as shown in both the thoughts of Adams and in Peter Hunt’s 1776. This source directly corroborates the film, as these five men in the film are tasked with the duty of composing the declaration, and Adams is constantly pressuring Jefferson to complete the document while discrediting him at every turn. The conflict between the northern and southern delegates of the Second Continental Congress is a major point of focus in the film 1776. As the northern and southern colonies had tremendously different eco nomies and were affected by the British Parliament in different ways, it was only natural for the different delegates of Congress to hold separate positions based on their regions. This passage from the autobiography of Thomas Jefferson displays thatShow MoreRelatedThe Importance Of The Declaration Of Independence856 Words   |  4 Pagesfirst. This new government would need to be implemented and a set of ethics would need to be created. This land I am talking about is now considered the United States of America and its foundation for its ethics is the Declaration of Independence. The Declaration of Independence, written by Thomas Jefferson, is a document that the majority of American’s know about. It is taught to children as early as elementary school. I remember learning about its basics all the way back in second grade when myRead MoreThe Importance Of The Declaration Of Independence1147 Words   |  5 Pagesmore difficult. In the case of our nation, the United States declared their independence with a national document, ratifying the Declaration of Independence on July 4th, 1776 and announcing the thirteen American colonies as sovereign states. The Declaration of Independence received wide-spread support as it asserted the people’s natural and legal rights. Perhaps the most profound and powerful sentence of the declaration deals with human rights and that America â€Å"holds these truths to be self-evidentRead MoreImportance Of The Declaration Of Independence707 Words   |  3 PagesThe Declaration of Independence was written in 1776 and i ts purpose was to declare America colonies be free and independent from Great Britain, get other colonists on board, and to encourage other nations to help them withdraw from the British. The first draft was of Declaration of Independence was written by Thomas Jefferson and then edit by Franklin and Adams and on July 4 the Declaration had been officially adopted by Committee of Five. In the draft Thomas Jefferson was trying to break connectionsRead MorePrinciples Of John Locke And The Declaration Of Independence1021 Words   |  5 Pages Essay Question: RELATE the ideas of John Locke to the Declaration of Independence by DISCUSSING three main ideas in the Declaration of Independence and how each relates to the Natural Rights Philosophy. FCA 1: Clearly stated definition AND explanation of Natural Rights Philosophy. (35 points) FCA 2: Correct and consistent verb usage. (15 points) FCA 3: No unnecessary words and phrases; no repetition. (15 points) FCA 4: Concluding remarks that summarizes the focus of the essay and emphasizesRead MoreThe Declaration Of Independence And Independence969 Words   |  4 PagesThe US Constitution, The Declaration of Independence as well as the Letter to the Danbury Baptist are not just historical documents, but some of if not the most important documents of the history of our nation. Although, similar in many facets the intentions and the goal pursued by each highlight their individuality. The fact that the Declaration of Independence was the first to be implemented and signed is of significant importance as it set the pace and put in motion the proceeding documents thatRead MoreThe Declaration Of Independence By Thomas Jefferson1420 Words   |  6 PagesMy initial thought of writing a paper for The Declaration of Independence, written by Thomas Jefferson, was one of confusion and nervousness. I had no idea how I could write a paper on the documents structural elements and not focus on its histor y; however, once I did some research it became clear to me how I would write this paper. The Declaration of Independence is an influential document with argumentative writing techniques that appeal to the reader’s emotions. This document also contains persuasiveRead MoreThe Declaration Of Independence1330 Words   |  6 Pagesparagraph of the most significant of all American historical documents, the Declaration of Independence. The very theory of natural rights dramatically influenced the conception of this starting paragraph. Natural rights is a political theory that strongly asserts that each individual who enters into any society possesses certain rights that no government can deny. The Declaration of Independence is a full and formal declaration adopted on July 4, 1776 by the representatives of the thirteen coloniesRead MoreThe Declaration Of Independence From England880 Words   |  4 Pageseventually become the United States of America, signed the declaration of Independence from England. The declaration pretty much summarized the colonists’ motivation for seeking independence. The 13 colonies want to obtain their independence from England for many reasons. England establishing the Stamp Act was the first major American opposition to the British Policy that led Americans to realize that it was a time for change. By gaining their Independence, American colonists were finally able to confirm anRead MoreComparing The Declaration Of Independence926 Words   |  4 Pages 2 The US Constitution, The Declaration of Independence as well as the Letter to the Danbury Baptist are not just historical documents, but are some of if not the most important documents of the history of our nation. Although, similar in many facets the intentions and the goal pursued by each highlight their individuality. The fact that the Declaration of Independence was the first to be implemented and signed is of significant importance as it set the pace and put in motion the subsequentRead MoreThe Declaration Of Independence : What Shaped And Provided The Freedom The United States Of America1030 Words   |  5 PagesAbstract The declaration of Independence is what shaped and provided the freedom the United States of America has today. The Declaration of Independence today is looked at a symbol for America to reflect on as it paved the way for most of the rights we have today. This document has been fundamental to american history longer than any other text because it was the first text to use â€Å"The United States of America† and in a sense the Declaration was the birth certificate of the American nation

Television Drug or Medicine Essay - 1265 Words

Television: Drug or Medicine? When I was young I lived on the west side of Chicago, a place where manners were non-existent and education was something forced upon us. At this point in my life an education was just an obstacle to get over and not a necessity. Though we were constantly preached to by our parents that education was the key to success; but our teachers told us that we would be nothing. Out of twenty houses on my block, I was one of the three houses that had cable. I was also one of the few people on my block that had obtained relationships with people outside of my neighborhood. The majority of the shows that I watched were educational cartoon and sporting events. My family is huge sports fans. Anytime the Chicago Bears†¦show more content†¦Ã¢â‚¬Å"By its domination of the time families spend together, it destroys the special quality that distinguish one family from another† (Winn par.9). This is not always true because not all families have a tradition that has been utilized for gener ations. Television can have a positive influence on an individual and his family and it can also reflect on his social life. Friendships are formed through conversation and interest in the same topics. What can help a friendship form better than that television show that everyone is interested in. There use to be a show called lost that came on once a week. Everyone would talk to each other about what happened last week and what might happen in the upcoming one. If you’re into the show your only task would be to simply talk about the show with others in order to form a friendship with them. The ability to form and maintain relationships has been increasingly seen an important indicator of social competence and adjustment later in life (Parker, Asher 1987). This can be the start of a very important relationship that can have a drastic effect on someone’s life. Although it might not be noticeable, television plays a large role in today’s society socially. Televisi on is not what is keeping relationships from forming, it is what helping create and maintain relationships. My cousin and I at one point in our lives did not see each other for almost a year. After we greeted each other because we hadShow MoreRelatedOpdivo Advertisement Analysis. Medical Commercials Are1125 Words   |  5 Pageswith them or anyone they know. These prescription drug advertisements are usually jam-packed with too much information and often leaves their audience snoring. However, the newest commercial for Opdivo (Nivolumab) recently caught my attention. Through its use of emotional tones, symbolic visuals, and hopeful tagline, Opdivo is able to capture the interest of someone suffering with certain diseases and inform them about their product. The history of drug advertisements is a long one, and Opdivo’s â€Å"NewRead MoreTv Addiction Essays1048 Words   |  5 PagesTV Addiction Marie Winn makes a convincing argument that watching too much television can be considered an addiction. Television has become a way of life for most families. Television viewing is so overwhelmingly prevalent nowadays that living without TV is often considered an extreme deprivation. TVs are everywhere, whether you are in a hospital, auto shop, or in the dentists office, theres always a television by the waiting area. Its a useful tool to help you from the boredom of waitingRead More Television Addiction Essay1028 Words   |  5 PagesTelevision Addiction Marie Winn makes a convincing argument that watching too much television can be considered an addiction. Television has become a way of life for most families. Television viewing is so overwhelmingly prevalent nowadays that living without TV is often considered an extreme deprivation. TVs are everywhere, whether you are in a hospital, auto shop, or in the dentist’s office, there’s always a television by the waiting area. It’s a useful tool to help you from the boredom ofRead MoreDeontological Paper708 Words   |  3 PagesEthics Week 4 Deontological Second Paper April 15, 2012 Direct-to-consumer drug advertising - Deontological Point ofView For many years, consumers relied and depended on the expertise and knowledge of physicians to make decisions on their pharmaceutical needs. Before 1985, prescription drugs could not be advertised directly to consumers. The U.S Food and Drug Administration passed a rule that allowed Direct-to-consumer drug advertising in 1985. This ruling was passed on the condition that warningRead MoreLksjfklfj1460 Words   |  6 Pagesmedical conditions. It is incredible how the medicine today differs from the ones back then, including the way it was advertised and the process of it being made. In the nineteenth century, pharmaceutical companies used marketing tools through advertisements directly from the consumer to producer, usually through newspaper ads. Originating in England, patented medicines made their way across to America in the 18th century. A lot of the times these medicines contained morphine, opium, or cocaine andRead MoreThe Ethical Appropriateness Of Direct Consumer Advertising Of Drugs Essay1246 Words   |  5 PagesWhat facts would you want to know before making a judgement on the ethical appropriateness of direct consumer advertising of drugs? I believe in the case where pharmaceutical companies are advertising with television commercials or paid advertisements within magazines are well within moral and good ethical standards. Consumers can choose to remain on the same television channel or read an advertisement within a magazine to become more educated about a specific pharmaceutical. However, in the caseRead MoreAddiction Among Health Professionals : Addiction1489 Words   |  6 Pageswould send him to work at hospitals for a short-term contracted amounts of time. According to the International Business Times, David said he had started drug diverting in 2002 when he and a coworker stole narcotics while working. David was fully aware he was infected with Hepatitis C; and yet, David would take the syringes that were full of the drug Fentanyl and switch them with needles that he had previously used to inject himself. With this in mind, David conceded that while under the influence ofRead MoreMarijuana Subculture1712 Words   |  7 Pagesthe United States Fatima Alikhan ENG 122 Professor Kenneth Newton Monday May 23, 2010 The United States has an approved list of drugs that are considered legal and illegal that create adverse side effects and hold diverse political views. Marijuana is a substance that popular media holds in a negative undertone while other drugs such as valium and alcohol are supported, if not glorified. Popular media is a powerful tool that gathers a mass of people and provides all types ofRead MoreTelevisions Effect on Families as Expressed in Marie Winns Article The Trouble with Television883 Words   |  4 PagesIt may be hard to admit, but television has become an intricate part of our everyday lives. People children often find themselves sitting in front of the television screen for a longer period of time than before and this has evolved immensely over the past few years. In this article, â€Å"The Trouble with Television,† by the author Marie Winn, mentions that addiction of television is negative effects on children and families. It keeps the families from doing o ther things and it’s a hidden competitorRead MoreAnalysis of an Ethical Dilemma1435 Words   |  6 Pagespractitioners often prescribe needed products only after receiving biased information along with subtle influence from the manufacturers. A study revealed that 48% of nurse practitioners interviewed, reported that they were more likely to prescribe a drug that was introduced over a lunch or dinner event (Ladd, Mahoney, amp; Emani, 2010). Many of these products do not have alternatives and manufacturing cost is a small fraction of the final product. These necessary products are sold at exuberant costs

Commentary Miss Clarissa Harlowe to Miss Howe Free Essays

The extract taken from Samuel Richardson’s Clarissa is a letter from Miss Clarissa Harlowe to her sister Miss Howe. In the letter, Miss Clarissa expresses her situation and her feels, as she slows builds up her trouble to the point where she becomes powerless and entangled. Her trouble is that she’s in a situation where she’s trapped by the events caused by two people whom both she dislikes, Mr. We will write a custom essay sample on Commentary Miss Clarissa Harlowe to Miss Howe or any similar topic only for you Order Now Lovelace who bothers her with improper suggestions and Mr. Solmes, who she’s soon going to be married to. The extract is written in first person, since it is the actual letter itself where the writer describes her using the most common form â€Å"I†. This gives a more clear view towards the writer, Clarissa’s inner emotions and thoughts. It is a piece of epistoltory writing, where the passage is constructed by short paragraphs that add intensity to the content. The passage starts with a factual tone where Miss Clarissa Harlowe describes her illicit correspondence with Mr. Lovelace by mentioning the letter he deposited in the private garden. The phrase â€Å"private place† suggest secrecy and illicitness of the correspondence and adds a sense of mystery. Speech marks are open in the second paragraph but there’s no direct speech but only a summary of the situation, concerning time and place. In the factual summary, there’s the omission of the names of people, and this implies that her sister Miss Howe knows the characters she mentions, and further, they must have a close relationship for her to know them. This is implication is corresponded with another implication that Miss Howe is not confused by the numerous pronouns used, that suggest she knows the situation well. The third paragraph is a complaint, that’s slightly unfriendly and abrupt. The phrase â€Å"no one† gives a strong sense of accusation towards Mr. Lovelace. There’s a sense of real trouble that builds up as the passage moves along. Her sister’s, as well as her family’s dislike towards Mr. Lovelace are expressed in the insults â€Å"upon him† and the preferring of M. Solmes stead of him. Trouble is suggested by the adding of bad relations of her family with Mr. Lovelace that makes the illicit correspondence dangerous. Mr. Lovelace’s words about himself being more suitable for marriage than M. Solmes are polite and serious. He speaks of settlement, that includes wealth, money, land, which are all proper considerations of marriage. The â€Å"regularity of his life and manners† is a more serious expression that he had no bad habits. However, his bad habits are before his addresses to her, which implies that he had bad habits before. The politeness is suggested in the word â€Å"addresses†, as well as the phrase â€Å"he will not disgrace himself† and â€Å"hope of my favor†. However, contrary to Mr. Lovelace’s polite offerings, the family and him are at bad terms, implied by the use of the imperative word â€Å"must† in his proposals, which suggest that the family will not likely accept them. Clarissa continues to use revelatory language to describe her situation with Mr. Lovelace. Her language reveals what Mr. Lovelace wants, says and what he will do in his letter. For example â€Å"he will submit to any measures that I shall prescribe, in order to bring about a reconciliation. † Along with his polite offerings, Mr. Lovelace tries to show that he has no bad intentions by the suggestion of a meeting â€Å"attended by whom I please†. Mr. Lovelace’s suggestions are all improper, wild and impossible. Young women do not meet men at nighttime in some garden because reputation mattered. It was improper to offer her an asylum when she should be tyrannically treated and it was almost impossible for her friends to drive her into a foreign protection. She is offended towards the suggestions because she mentions them. M. Lovelace’s suggestions condemn itself because its impossibility and improperness are all implied. The paradox exists when she mentions, â€Å"I had given him great encouragement† as well as the improper suggestions that she’s offended to. It emphasizes the improperness of the suggestions and her feeling of being offended. Clarissa’s retelling of Mr. Lovelace’s description of himself, contrasts with Mr. Lovelace’s improper, impossible suggestions. One is polite, serious while the other abrupt and offensive. The contrast further intensifies the feeling of being offended by Clarissa. In contrast to her strong feeling, her comments are reduced to only four lines while the majority of the description is about Mr. Lovelace. She moves to the inequality between man and woman where she finds women are too complaisant or bashful. There’s an indication of the arrogance of men where women are entangled by old supposals and offers. However, inequality is only pinpointed with a few lines. There’s the omission of detail of the inequality she mentions, as well as the omission of detail in her descriptions of her situation. Further there’s the omission of Mr. Lovelace’s emotions although he is the one that offers and suggestions. Later, she reanalyzes her own background, where she uses the alliteration â€Å"drawn and driven† that presents a sense of entrapment and powerlessness. Her emotions are shown through her heart, that condemns the â€Å"mere lover-like correspondence†. The sense of entrapment is further shown by the idea of things that crowds on her, where she could not â€Å"break it off†. The paradox between her being crowded by the idea of things and her being alone also strengthen the sense of entrapment. The demanding of advice from her sister suggests her alones and that she has to confide to someone not living there to seek her help. She sees love as entanglement, as she condemns the lover-like correspondence. The correspondence had caused the unhappy situation, â€Å"more and more entangled†. She not only dislikes Mr. Lovelace, but also Mr. Solmes, as she mentions that she wants break off the marriage. She’s eager to escape the entanglement and seeks to be free, shown by her wishing to â€Å"put an end to it†. This is supported by the desperate tone she has, as she points clearly to her suffering by obvious words such as â€Å"unhappy. Her tone is also pessimistic, as she uses words such as â€Å"extricate†, which has a negative meaning. My personal response is that her entanglement is very difficult to resolve since she’s going to marry soon. If she breaks off the marriage, it would cause Mr. Solmes to misunderstand her that she accepts his improper suggestions. Her problem is tragic and inevitable to avoid. For that, I feel sorry for her. How to cite Commentary Miss Clarissa Harlowe to Miss Howe, Papers

Under Armour strategic report free essay sample

These statements relate to expectations, beliefs, anticipated events and future trends, and are not necessarily based on historical facts, but are conditions and issues that are current to the market environment, are reasonable, but constitute only current views about future events. Economic Conditions and Trends There are several conditions that will be useful to monitor over the next decade for Under Armour, including: 1. Underperforming economies- A declining retail consumer market and an overall struggling economy means potential difficulties for UA which offers closely related, non-essential products. Several factors include general economic conditions, available consumer credit, and consumer confidence . Since UA has very limited experience working in a economic downturn, they are unable to effectively predict the full impact of a downturn in the economy with regards to sales and profits. â€Å"Consumer purchases of discretionary items tend to decline during recessionary periods when disposable income is lower or during other periods of economic instability or uncertainty† The financial conditions of the retail customers, are a concern, as well. UA currently extends credit to all retail customers, based on their financial condition, usually without requiring collateral. Economic uncertainties increase the risk of this practice, as a â€Å"slowing economy in our key markets or a continued decline in consumer purchases of sporting goods generally could have an adverse affect on the financial health of UA retail customers, which in turn, would have an adverse affect on UA sales, and their ability to collect on receivables† (UA, Inc-10k annual 2012) 2. Supply chain issuesSome suppliers used by UA are commodities, such as petroleum based materials and therefore are subject to potential price fluctuations, particularly when petroleum supplies are under duress. Other supplier economic related issues include: Specialty fabrics – Used in UA products are technically advanced textile products developed by third party suppliers and may be available, at least for the short term from a very limited number of sources. In 2011, only seven suppliers provided 45% of all UA products . Any disruption of the supply chain, due to unseen market forces could create product shortages, particularly if UA is unable to locate alternative suppliers. If additional supply sources can be found, UA may experience interruptions in customer order fulfillment, until the new suppliers have reached quality control standards and are properly trained. Labor Disruptions- Labor disputes at various ports or at the supply source can create significant risks such as work slowdowns, lockouts, strikes or other disruptions during â€Å"peak† importing or manufacturing seasons and could adversely affect UA business, â€Å"potentially resulting in cancelled orders by customers† (UA, 10K, 2012) Capital requirements- Growing and operating the UA business plan, will require significant cash outlays and capital expenditures for both product , capital equipment and property. Changes in leverage ratios, and interest coverage as defined in the UA credit agreement with their financiers, due to unforeseen economic influencers, could have a â€Å"material adverse effect on the UA business, operations and cash flow. If additional capital is needed, UA may have difficulty raising needed cash on terms that would be acceptable to the organization, depending on cash availability or restrictions due to economic uncertainties. If financing for whatever reason, would become insufficient or unavailable, â€Å"UA would be required to modify its growth and operating plans based on the availability of these funds†. Distribution problems- UA has a limited number of facilities, all which utilize computer controlled and automated equipment, making operations complicated. Risks include: security and computer viruses, power interruptions or other system failures, floods, fires or other natural disasters. If UA were to encounter such problems with their distribution facilities, â€Å"the ability to meet customer expectations, manage inventory and complete sales goals, would be materially adversely affected† (UA, 10K report, 2012) 3. Tax Laws – Because UA is subject to income taxes in the U. S, as well as numerous foreign jurisdictions, the effective tax rate could be adversely affected in the future, particularly as hard hit national governments seek to recoup lost tax revenues due to economic downturn. Several factors are important to consider, including â€Å"changes in the mix of earnings in countries with differing tax rates, changes in the valuation of deferred tax assets and liabilities, and changes in tax laws, each of which could adversely affect profitability. Exchange rates will have a major impact on Under Armour from both the Globalization sales efforts and finished goods supply chain based on foreign soil. Exchange rates affect â€Å" export opportunities, the profitability of international trade and investment deals, and the price competitiveness of foreign imports† (Hill, 2007, p. 345) All of these factors have a major impact on global business, therefore it is essential that UA understands this foreign exchange risk. The majority of economic theories of exchange rate movements for any country, point to three factors: 1) price inflation 2) local interest rates, and 3) market psychology. â€Å"The law of one price states that in competitive markets free of transportation costs and barriers to trade, identical products sold in different countries must sell for the same price when their price is expressed in terms of the same currency. † (Hill, 2007, p. 345) Cultural and Social Issues The UA target market up to this point has been the male sports â€Å"identity† population between the ages of 15-31, mostly consisting of the Gen Y demographic segment. Because the Gen Y segment is the second largest segment next to the boomers (85 million strong), future growth looks optimistic, particularly because UA is also doing well with the Gen Z group, who will be even more likely to carry brand loyalty into their 20’s and beyond. UA has recently been active in reaching out to women and girl athletes in the same demographic age sets. Even though the Gen Y spending only makes up 4% of a typical household spending, this buying group tends to be more tech savvy, and tend to spend on highly â€Å"image† related products. (Athletes buy athletic gear and clothing, etc) Currently UA has a positive image here in the U. S. , due to a strong brand identification of the target market to UA products countrywide. A high level of belief in the technology advantages of UA products is a majority factor in the current success of the brand image. UA believes that â€Å"continued growth in industry wide sales of performance apparel, footwear and accessories will be largely dependent on consumers continuing to transition from traditional alternatives to performance products† This shift in belief systems, could shift at some point in time, as history has shown that the American public can move from trend to trend in the blink of an eye , due to massive advertising monies dedicated to the industry by competitors and the media. The U. S. public is known worldwide for its fascination with sports and athletics, and the lifestyles associated with these pastimes. A perfect market such as sporting goods apparel, may attract another â€Å"disruptor† much like UA, in some not too distant future, with something newer, more attractive, technologically advanced, and with a similarly great startup story. In addition, because â€Å"performance products are often more expensive than traditional alternatives, consumers who are now convinced these products provide a better alternative may still not be convinced they are worth the extra cost. Social/Economic/Cultural differences will have a great bearing in these types of buying decisions as those who engage in sports activities in certain areas of the country may not identify so closely to the â€Å" sports hero† or â€Å"team† identity culture that is evident in UA marketing efforts. (UA, 10K report, 2012) Another issue to consider is that UA offers products that are closely related and non-essential is therefore subject to the fashion preferences of the public. If Under Armour were to enter new markets such as casual clothing, they might lose some of the appeal that differentiates them from the competition. Social responsibility is a key factor to continued U. S. success for UA, especially in light of the damage sustained by Nike when it was revealed that some of their overseas plants had been practicing forced labor, breaking child labor laws, and determined to be unsafe working environments. If Under Armour were to practice any type of unethical behavior , whether it be child labor, or not compensating employees adequately for overtime, their reputation would be tarnished, as well. This type of problem would be more difficult  for a company the size of UA to overcome, than it was for Giant Nike, who had the stamina and deep pocket books to take on the media firestorm with a positive media message of their own, and to correct the problems quickly. â€Å"Under Armour has several policies put in place that address issues such as forced labor , child labor, harassment, discrimination, health and safety, and worker’s environment, compensation , benefits, and rights† Ensuring ethical rights should be a concern of Under Armour’s throughout the nation, as well as internationally. It will be important, as well, that UA exhibits social responsibility through supporting and sponsoring several charity organizations. Currently UA has been involved with the â€Å"Conservation Fund† and â€Å"Power in Pink† both notably worthwhile U. S. charities. Lastly , one of the key social/cultural advantage that has most evident in the rapid rise of UA in the sports apparel market, has been the development of extensive sponsorships throughout the U. S. sports world, including supplying 30 of the 32 NFL teams, and is the official supplier for the MLB, the MLS, the NHL, USA baseball and the US ski team. â€Å"A key element has been to create a link in the consumer market between our products and professional and collegiate athletes† This strategy has run parallel to the rapid rise of popularity in these specific sports arena and their participating athletes, both here and internationally. â€Å"However, as competition in the performance apparel and footwear industry has increased , the costs associated with athlete sponsorships and official supplier licensing agreements have increase, including the costs associated with obtaining and retaining these sponsorships and agreements† Particularly in the U.S. , the added spotlight on â€Å"super athletes† has driven up the demand for heavy cash outlays to secure the â€Å"association† of such athletes and teams. This cultural phenomenon, could be a problem for UA in the future, particularly if they are unable to maintain the current association with professional and collegiate athletes, teams and leagues, or to do so at a reasonable cost. This could potentially lead to losing the â€Å"on-field authenticity associated with UA products, and could ultimately be adversely affected in brand image, net revenues, expenses and profitability† (UA, 10K report, 2012) Global expansion will continue to be an emphasis over the next few years, as this is the most fertile new business opportunity for UA. This expansion will require the need for UA to adjust its message and products for the Europeans, for example, as UA’s traditional football and baseball centric marketing will not have the same affect on a culture with different sports preferences. UA has already found some traction here already, creating sponsorships with the Welsh Rugby Union, German, England, and Greece soccer Teams, and the Toronto Maple Leafs in Canada. Trending sports like mixed martial arts, are also the subject of attention , as UA has recently endorsed a premier UK martial arts expert, Cloe Bruce. The rising popularity of women’s sports, will require additional product innovation and advertising, as well. (www. forbes. com/sites/freddreier/2012) Geo-Political and Legal issues By year end 2011, UA was manufacturing products in 16 countries, using 23 primary manufacturers. Of these manufacturers, only 7 produced over 45% of UA products in Cambodia, China, Honduras, Indonesia, Jordan, Mexico, Nicaragua, the Philippines, Vietnam and San Salvador. â€Å"During 2011, approximately 60% of UA products were made in Asia, 22% in Central and South America and 8% in Mexico. † A major concern for UA going forward with regards to the manufacturing side of the business, are the risks associated with doing business abroad where many political and geographical challenges, lie outside UA’s ability to control. A few of these concerns are : Political and labor unrest, terrorism and economic instability which could result in the disruption of trade from foreign countries in which UA products are produced. Currency exchange fluctuations The introduction and implementation of new laws and regulations, including those related to labor conditions, quality and safety standards, imports, duties, taxes and other charges on imports, trade restrictions and restrictions on the transfer of funds. Also to considered are rules and regulations regarding climate change. Reduced protection for intellectual property rights in some countries Changes in local economic conditions, due to political policies, that impact credit, cash flow and purchasing by our manufactures in these locales. (UA, 10K report, 2012) Global expansion of sales will be impacted, as well by these same issues, and will need to be considered during priority selection of target foreign markets. For example, UA currently sells indirectly to the consumer through distributors to much of Central and South America and Mexico. Many South American countries like Argentina, present too many risks associated with direct expansion, such as a recent recovery from a complete economic collapse, resulting in a high level of uncertainty and instability in this country. That coupled with a known , questionable legislative system, poses yet greater risk for a targeted entry into such a market. Mexico has some of the same inherent risks as with any foreign market, but the chance for success is greater because Mexico is an active participant in the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and is governed to a degree by it statutes. In the U. S.  and across the globe, UA will also be subject to trade , and other regulations that could pose a risk to active investigations by government regulators if there is a failure to comply. â€Å"The labeling, distribution, importation, marketing and sale of UA products are subject to extensive regulation by various federal agencies, including the Federal Trade Commission, Consumer Product Safety Commission and state attorney generals here in the U. S. Elsewhere, UA faces similar trade oversight by other federal, state, provincial, local and international regulatory authorities in locations that their products are sold. The risk of noncompliance could result in significant penalties or claims which could harm UA operational functions, and /or the ability to conduct business. The adoption of new regulations or changes in the interpretation of existing regulations may also result in compliance costs, and may result in the discontinuation of product in a worst case scenario. Adding Global expansion to this matter, and the legal risk of doing business in some countries may become cost prohibitive. Two other important factors must be considered in this discussion on Legal issues that are significant to UA: The fabrics and the manufacturing technology of UA products are not easily patented, in fact, UA currently owns fabric or process patents on any of its products. â€Å"As a result , our current and future competitors are able to manufacture and sell products with performance characteristics and fabrications similar to our products. This is a big issue, and will be discussed in the later problems and strategies sections of this report. The success of UA depends largely on the brand image of its products. For UA , the registered and common law trademarks have â€Å"significant value† and are important identifiers and differentiators from it’s competition. As UA continues to expand product lines, they will be subject to claims from competitors who believe that UA is stepping on intellectual property rights of others, and fully expect that similar encroachments are to be expected against UA intellectual property from product expansions from competitors, as well. Environmental Issues The most important environmental issue affecting net sales revenues for UA products, is the weather. While quarterly results of operations may also fluctuate significantly as a result of a variety of other factors, including timing of introductions and advertising, and changes in the product mix, most of these issues are controllable by the company. Weather, of course is not a controllable factor, and has, shown to have an adverse effect on quarterly results of operations and sales for UA. For example, the warmer than normal weather conditions throughout the fall and winter had an effect on the COLDGEAR line , leaving UA with heavy inventories into the spring of 2012. As most of the product was shipped prior to the unseasonable weather hitting, Much of the real impact will be felt in the fall 2012 sell in when many distributors and wholesalers will be stuck with last years’s inventory. Europe, which suffered from more summer weather issues has been beset by weaker than inflation sales increases (+2. 7%) suggesting that unit sales for UA, (as well as other similar sporting apparel companies) in that region actually fell. Among the list of sustainable business practices almost universally accepted by most CEO’s is the environmental factors that socially responsible companies are addressing, and more importantly reporting, such as resource consumption, emissions, and land/water conservation. Under Armour’s website contains information which addresses many of the requirements for sustainable business practices including global labor standards, and a code of conduct for suppliers, and a code of Business Ethics. Attention to this significant modern responsibility for successful companies is not without reward: Investment in socially responsible companies has grown from an estimated 12 billion in 1995 to over $220 billion in 2011. (Business Week online 2011) SPORTING GOODS APPAREL AND FOOTWEAR INDUSTRY Overview The Global Athletic Apparel and Footwear Industry is a dynamic and growing industry driven by a trend toward healthier, more active lifestyles, with several participating apparel companies joining with fashion designers to produce new clothing styles and to widen their product lines. The world sports apparel industry reached 120. 1 billion dollars in sales for 2011, and is forecasted to grow to 126. 30 billion $ Sales by the year 2015. Sales will continue to be driven by a trend toward less formal dress in the workplace and demand from specific demographics such as teenagers and baby boomers. These blurred lines of differentiation between sports apparel and garments used for casual, business, and everyday street wear continue to define an ever-changing landscape in the sports and fitness clothing market. Minor differences between sports apparel fitness, clothing and casual, active wear are leading to an interesting change in the target audiences. Changes in lifestyles and attitude towards fitness outerwear, are determining fashion trends with consumers, particularly with women, who are exhibiting a demand for more fashionable workout wear. Trends include, a â€Å"growing emphasis on versatility, convenience, fashion, compfort, style and performance is creating a strong demand for sports and fitness clothing which offers boh functional performance and style appeal. † (www. strategyr. com/sportsandfitness. An aging but active population in the U. S, Japan, European and emerging markets such as Asia and Latin America are excellent growth markets for sports apparel manufacturers. As women take up newer sports, they are becoming a highly lucrative target audience, as well. On the retail front sporting goods stores compete with fashion stores, while mass merchandisers compete with department stores and sporting goods chains for a piece of the market pie. Consumers are demonstrating a wide variety of preferences, classy tastes, and an eye for performance, flexibility and function. Increasingly, this target market is willing pay more for these product characteristic that might help them to gain a competitive advantage in their sports pursuit. New fabric characteristics such as temperature regulation, friction reduction, moisture advantage, stretch, lightness, and wind/water resistance are in popular demand. A strong trend towards â€Å"brand strengthening† is evidenced by downward integration of the sports apparel manufacturers into the retail distribution arena like â€Å"shop within a shop† in the chain stores, and single brand stores.