Palm oil stalemate: who is responsible Essay

Summary Palm oil is a plant with various uses in human life (such as: tooth paste, Moisturizer and biodiesel). ïÆ' ¼Malaysia is one of the largest producers and exporters of palm oil. Gajah Berang Oil Palm Estate is one of the largest multinational palm oil conglomerates whose managers offer a balance between efficiency and employee satisfaction. The company has multicultural employee since its workers from Sri Lanka, Indonesia, India and Bangladesh. Melaka Palm Oil project presented one of the biggest ventures for the firm.   To enhance the balance between efficiency of the firms operations and employee satisfaction the company employed Abdul Aziz as the estate manager. Abdul Aziz shared common mother tongue with people of Malaysia thus making him to have a similar culture with the people of Malaysia. Hearing Abdul Aziz (Indonesian) was an advantage to the company since: His ability to control the operations of the company within the region since he possessed the shared culture with the people of Malaysia. He enhanced social responsibility by involving the people of the region to company affairs through hiring them Abdul Aziz used various leadership and communication skills to encourage employees to work effectively in the company. During the course of Abdul Aziz leadership, the workers went on strike asking for clean water and tank covers. He wanted to settle the issue but the Lee Peng who was his superior argued that this could compromise Abdul Aziz as a profession and as a result he looked for his replacement. 1. Describe Malaysian cultural attributes and how they might affect the operations of a multinational palm oil conglomerate doing business within Malaysia. Malaysia has diverse culture following different ethnic groups. Some of the cultural attributes of the people include beliefs, language, politics, and religion. This attributes would affect the operation of the Multinational palm oil positively or negatively depending on how it would satisfy this attributes. For Example, if the company focuses on satisfying all the cultural attributes of the people of Malaysia, then it will be in a good position to enjoy efficiency and wide market for its product. On the other hand, if the company does not satisfy the cultural attributes of the  people, then it would expect low efficiency in its operations. 2. What are some effective leadership and communication skills that lead to the development of a positive worker-manager relationship in international business? Aziz used various leadership and communication skills to enhance efficiency in the company: A)He allowed the employees to take part in decision making process. This acted as a motivation to the employees thus helped to increase their productivity. B)He also showed empathy to employees and shared much with them. He extended his gratitude to employees by listening to their issues. C)He used his troubleshooting skills to solve problems within the company. D)He was able to foster proper communication with employees something that ensured clear communication of information within the company. E)He used his mother tongue language to persuade employees to love the company more and more. 3. Would you describe the respective attitudes of Aziz, Krishnan, and Lee Peng as ethnocentric, polycentric, or geocentric? What factors do you suspect of having influenced their respective attitudes? Aziz, Krishnan and Lee Peng can be said to have polycentric attitude. This is because their decision to put Aziz on the Manager position was a focus to enhance openness towards the culture, opinions and ways of life to the people of Malaysia. Aziz was the main player in ensuring that the employees of the Multinational palm oil felt appreciated and recognized through their culture. Generally, this people ensured that the independence of the culture of the people of Malaysia was respected and appreciated. However, the attitude of Lee Peng can be said to be ethnocentric. This is because he wanted the issue to be solved professionally without focusing on the culture of the people. 4. Was Lee Peng correct in assessing Aziz ‘s controversial actions in the work stalemate? Should a palm oil conglomerate employ someone whose main function is that of liaison between its corporate culture and the culture of its host country? If so, was Aziz the right person for the job in the detailed scenario? Lee peng was not correct in assessing Aziz’s controversial actions. This is because Aziz’s aim was to balance the company’s operation efficiency with employee satisfaction. However, Lee  thought that Aziz would be compromised professionally by the employees for being so close to them. To some extend this could take place but in this situation such relation was very helpful for the company. Palm Oil conglomerate should not employ a person based on the function of liaison between corporate culture and the culture of the host county. However, It should focus on employing someone who is multicultural. This is because culture plays an important role to people of different countries. In this case, such employment was very vital since Aziz was multicultural and could listen to the needs and demands of the people of Malaysia as compared to his collogues (counterparts). In my opinion, Aziz was the right person for the job because he was multicultural and was professionally competent (MBA and he also worked in a small palm project in Indonesia). These two factors are very vital for a company to run smoothly. With these qualities he was able to control and satisfy the employees of the company. Professionally, he could lead employees to enhance efficiency in their work. On the other hand, he could motivate the employees by listening to their problems and allowing them to contribut e towards the company operations.

Cipero River

Methodology Where was data collected? Data was collected at Cipero River, South Trinidad The Cipreo River was chosen as the area of study for pollution. The study of pollution was ideal for the area, as it is a major area which is situated near the San Fernando region, these very rivers banks where also overflown of the year 2010. When was data collected? The field study was conducted on June 12th 2012, between the hours of 8. am. and 10. am. How was data collected? Data was obtained by the use of various instruments, such as a * Camera * Pen Stationary paper * Measuring tape * Stopwatch * String * Cups * PH meter What was done to obtain this data? * 7 points of the Cipero river were examined, at each point of the river a cup was lowered into the water, by the use of the string, to obtain water from the river, the PH meter was then used to determine whether that part of the water was polluted, by showing results from the test either being acidic or alkaline. * Data was also obtained, by determining the velocity of the water at each point of the river, which was visited. 1.Stationary paper was used to make a paper boat 2. Measuring tape was then used to measure a certain distance, this determined the departure and arrival of the boat at the given area. 3. The boat was then released and the stopwatch immediately started 4. When the paper boat passed the required distance the stopwatch was then stopped, results where then recorded. Aim * To identify the causes and consequences of pollution, at various points along Cipero River South, Trinidad. Analysis and Discussion Do you know the meaning of the word pollution?Longman Geography for CSEC gives the definition as, â€Å"†¦the unclean state of the environment resulting in physical, chemical and biological changes that can seriously affect ecological systems. † Pollution results from the improper disposal of waste, whether solid, liquid or gas, with this being said from the results which were obtained at Ciprero River it is my belief that the river is polluted. Seven points of the river were examined at the river and at each point which was visited there was pollution of various forms present.At the beginning of the river it was slightly polluted there was little improper disposal of unwanted materials such as garbage and iron present, this may have been due to individuals who pass nearby the river occasionally, and also due to motor vehicles who are constantly passing on the roads on a daily day to day basis. Despite this it was noticed that as I examined more and more points of the river, the more polluted it seemed. At point four of the river there was pollution present in the water due to improper drainage caused by industries, industrial waste was seen circulating in the water.At various parts of the water it was brown and murky black in color, it also had an offensive smell. There are three types of major pollution that can be observed at the Cipero River. Land pollution is on e of them, the Cipero River is located in an area which is close to the town San Fernando, many people on a daily bases pass through this area to go to attend their jobs, and also to reach to the town. It can be said that people often throw and dispose of their garbage improperly and due to the constant presence of individuals passing through this region, more and more garbage is accumulating near and inside the river.Water pollution is the second major form of pollution, in the form of sewage due to improper drainage. Water enters the river due to the housing developments poor drainage system and also from industries that release harmful chemicals and waste into the water, this affects the color and quality of the water. Water pollution, also poses a threat to the animal species that are present in the water, it was observed that at point one of the river fishes and alligators were seen living in this river as their habitat, when the water becomes polluted and they can’t sur vive, what will be the outcome?!Offensive odour also presents itself as pollution, improper drainage from people’s houses and industries enters the water causing it to have an unpleasant odour. The Cipero River is also located on a road which is constantly busy, sometimes at night people may also not have a choice and urinate near the river, this along with the water pollution and land pollution increases the smell of the river making it smell more fowl.Conclusion Evidently there is a problem of pollution which is present at the Cipero River, due to types of pollution such as, sewage, offensive odour, and waste water. This is mainly due to poor waste and sewage practices and poor regulation of drainage, this problem can be easily stopped if individuals are willing to make a difference. In conclusion, the matter of pollution is one that is not taken seriously in Trinidad and Tobago, all around us every day we see pollution existing, yet still nobody seems to care.Pollution is something that should be addressed more regularly because although it may seem like it’s not important, it is. Table Of Contents The Aim of the study Location of field study Methodology Presentation of data Analysis and Discussion Conclusion Bibliography Presentation of data Bibliography * The site of Cipero River South Trinidad * Paul Guiness et al. Geography for CSEC. Nelson Thornes, 2008 Name: Karishma Ramtahal School: Parvati Girls Hindu College Class: 5M1 Topic: Pollution at Cipero River South Trinidad

Compare & contrast ”Pretty in Pink” & ”Clueless”

The two videos we watched were †Clueless† and †Pretty in Pink†. The main characters in both films were girls but from very different backgrounds. Cher was the main character in †Clueless†, she was from a wealthy background, Andie on the other hand was from a poor family and was the main character in †Pretty in Pink†. The two films were made almost a decade apart; †Clueless† in 1995 and Pretty in Pink in 1986. In both films there were many differences. They are filmed in America obviously speaking in American accents e.g. tomatoes, vitamins, their currency in Dollars, where as we use pounds. The cars drive on the opposite side of the road as we do. There were many differences from Britain i.e. the fire hydrants along the streets, the students don't have to wear uniforms for school. The students also attend debate class which is not a lesson n our timetable. The fashions and cultural differences are comparable between the two films. Andie, the character from the poor background has earrings in one ear and no earrings in the other ear. Boys and girls wore their hair long, the girls had permed hair. Their clothes were dull, drab and skirts were long. Andie made her own clothes where as Cher had expensive outfits which were colourful & bright, their hair was even dyed bright colours. Cher in †Clueless† has a wealthy father who is a lawyer and earns $500 per hour; they live in a huge expensive house with a maid. Andies father in †Pretty in Pink† works part time, they have very little money and their house is small & shabby. The camera shots in the two films are very different. The camera shots at the beginning of †Clueless† shows Cher, the main character, on her way to school, it shows an overhead shot of her in her car. Cher picks up her friend Dion; the camera introduces the new character with an overhead shot. When they arrive at schools the camera shot is of them walking towards the school chatting. Murray, Dion's boyfriend, arrives and the shot is a close up with music playing, the music suggests that Murray is popular. Murray & Dion start to argue with each other so it goes to a tracking shot of Cher walking up the path towards the school. During the debate class, when Cher is speaking, a tracking shot films down the class, it takes no one taking any notice of her or the lesson. The introduction of †Pretty in Pink† shows tracking shot moving up Andies leg, as it moves up it suggests Andies style and personality. It shows Andie making her toast, compared to Cher in †Clueless† who has a maid to make her breakfast. During the classroom shot it shows the two girls who bully Andie; the shot suggests that they dislike Andie because she is poorer than they are. Duckie is Andies friend, it shows a tracking shot of him walking up the corridor, and this shows he is a popular person. †Clueless† has lots of sounds and music which introduce us to different characters and scenes. At the beginning Cher is doing a voice over as the film starts and a song called †Kids in America† is playing, which tells us what the film is going to be about. Before Cher picks up Dion, there is a voice over with music playing in the background. As she arrives at Dion's house the music stops when the dialogue between them both starts. When Murray arrives in the scene there is dialogue between them both, the music is played to show Murray's popularity in the school. When Cher leaves them she is doing a voiceover about boys. When she is speaking in the debate class, quiet patriotic music starts to play. †Pretty in pink† starts with silence as the title is on the screen, this was the first film which did this. The music starts when we see Andie. As the dialogue begins the music starts to fade. The scene which shows Andie at school the music is playing loud. The music changes when Duckie arrives and as the students enter the classroom, the music fades and the dialogue starts. I enjoyed both films but I preferred †Clueless†. The colours in this film were much brighter than the colours in †Pretty in Pink†. I thought that †Pretty in Pink† wasn't as good because the film was a bit dull and this made the film look less exciting. The reason why the shots in each film look different is because the camera technology is very different because the films were made just under a decade apart. With the camera shots being different it makes the film look a lot better and the camera angles looking a lot more advanced.

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A Song For Ourselves and the Asian American Movement - Essay Example ity which attracted signaled solidarity among people around the globe who were struggling with colonization and they later joined a new coalition which later led to a five- month strike at the campus with their major demand being the creation of an autonomous College of ethnic studies. During the struggle for equality and recognition, young Asian Americans were inspired by black scholars as well as their organization in their fight against prejudice and some became directly involved in civil rights campaigns and black power politics. This song was written for the republic of new Africa and its key message was to free the land and sovereignty for blacks within the US and this message was universal for all the people who were oppressed by the US. They wanted the land to be freed so that those who worked on it would share an equal proportion of the benefits as the white man (AntiWar Songs). Some Asian Americans who attended the world Lesbian and Gay Conference at Howard University 1979 formed the Lesbian and Gay Asian collective although they did not give any statement of principle. This was a significant moment for their visibility and recognition. A year later, 9 Asian American students were featured in the meeting raising their hands behind a banner written, †Å"We are Asians, Gay and Proud.†(Lee 301). Students unions formalized a strategic plan to enable the accessibility of higher education for poor residents in the states and the working class. Asian American activists also turned to cultural production to develop articulate empowered identities. This creative works produced during this period provided a new platform of their identity that was later called the Yellow power and was mostly used by the people from their homeland to air their grievances with the hope that they would be heard one day. They saw the interlinking of the oppression between them and other minorities like the blacks. They saw that all their suffering came from a common source that was

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MKT5A5 Application coursework Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

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Empirical Data Analysis of UK Companies Coursework

Empirical Data Analysis of UK Companies - Coursework Example inability has been recognized by the companies operating globally, but the performance to purely be integrated into the strategy and operations as per the standard requires embedment of the standards and principles of the primary governance systems. Successfully embedding sustainability into the governance of a company requires selection of a right mix of issues, and placing the strategic direction of an organization with strategic social and environmental goals, and ensuring that the mechanisms taken by the government understand and perform well so as to reach the focus. So as to create sustainability a company tries to focus on risk and legal issues, individual competencies, finances, management structures, independence, and leadership. Boards of Directors are a significant component of governance structures and with the help of other governance mechanisms helps to bring about sustainable development (Mullerat, 2011, p-6). Boards have the ability to lead all the decisions taken wit h integrity; they possess the appropriate skills to undergo any difficult decisions and manage risks undertaken (Tayan and Larcker, 2011, pp. 8-9). Proper Implementation and maintenance of good governance facilities help in making decisions and improves the strategy taken by the organization, improves compliance, performance, and accountability, and is often characterized by evaluation, analysis, and monitoring. Effective and efficient corporate governance helps an organization to achieve its desired outcomes and objectives, and accomplish its obligations through the following- Successful corporate Governance also helps to provide a framework for establishing responsibility to the people served by the organization, i.e., its members, clients, and different stakeholders (Grobfeld and Luttermann, 2012, p. 331). Clear strategy- Good Corporate Governance starts with an apparent strategy for the organization.

Swallowing and Prediction of Dysphagia Severity Essay Example for Free

Swallowing and Prediction of Dysphagia Severity Essay Introduction: Daniels, McAdam, Brailey, and Foundas (1997) reviewed literature from Linden, Kuhlemeier, and Patterson (1993) and examined signs of aspiration, but specifically six risk factors, including dysphonia, dysarthria, abnormal gag reflex, abnormal volitional cough, voice change after swallow, and cough after swallow. They then designed their study in an attempt to link the six signs of aspiration to the diagnosis and severity of dysphagia. The purpose of the study was to determine whether the six risk factors approximated the VSS in identification of dysphagia severity (Daniels et al. , 1997). It was hypothesized that the presence of any one factor could predict at least mild dysphagia or normal swallowing on a video fluoroscopic swallow study (VSS) and that two factors could predict moderate dysphagia. Methods (Procedures): Fifty-nine male veterans, ages 41-88, with recent neurological deficits were recruited for the study and had one of the following issues: unilateral left hemispheric damage (22 men), bilateral hemispheric damage (18 men), and bilateral hemispheric damage (13 men), or brainstem lesions (6 men). The men were assessed by a neurologist using CT or MRI scans upon admission to view and localize lesions. They were then rescanned 2 weeks later if the initial scans yielded negative results. Excluded from the study were agitated patients and patients with a history of disorders and diseases other than stroke that would cause dysphagia. Within 5 days of admission, the men were given an oropharyngeal exam of gag reflex, volitional cough, speech, and voice. A video fluoroscopic assessment was also given that consisted of 3,5,10, and 20 ml, and  ½ tsp of barium paste along with half of a cookie to be swallowed. A swallow study was also performed by administering 5 ml of liquid, and then giving 10 and 20 ml volumes, which were administered twice each, unless the patients immediately had a negative reaction such as a cough. After each swallow, the men phonated â€Å"ah† to see if there was a change in vocal quality. Results: The VSS served as the outcome variable in determining dysphagia severity, which ranged from mild dysphagia to normal swallowing (scores 0-1; 1 if two or more of the six risk factors were present and 0 if one or less were present) to moderate to severe dysphagia (scores 2-4). The reliability for the scores was 92%. 74% of the 59 patients had varying dysphagia severity, while 5.1% had severe dysphagia. 13.6% had moderate to severe dysphagia along with aspiration, while 25.4% had moderate dysphagia, and 25.4% had normal swallowing. 47% had dysphonia, 63% had dysarthria, 27% had abnormal volitional cough, 42% had abnormal gag reflex, 41% had a cough after swallow, and 19% had voice change after swallow (Daniels et al., 1997). Discussion/Conclusion: The results of this study demonstrated that this clinical assessment has utility in the evaluation of acute stroke patients with probable dysphagia who may be at risk for the development of aspiration (Daniels et al., 1997). Also discussed was the fact that this assessment does not account for silent aspiration. In conclusion, early detection of aspiration by using this short assessment can reduce aspiration and pneumonia in patients if addressed early in their hospital stay. Commentary: This article provides helpful information for clinicians practicing in a medical setting. The article includes a flow chart to help determine which patients require further evaluation. Ill and physically challenged patients can avoid the physical distress of unnecessary testing with a proper bedside evaluation, and moderate to severe respiration can be caught early to prevent pneumonia. This study was performed in 1997, and clinicians are still using this method today, proving its reliability in early detection of aspiration.

The structure and organization of the human body

The structure and organization of the human body Unit 3 The Structure, Function and Organisation of The Human Body Outcome 1 Handout UNIT 3: THE STRUCTURE, ORGANISATION AND FUNCTION OF THE HUMAN BODY OUTCOME 1 The cell is the basic structural and functional unit of all known living organisms. It is the smallest unit of life that is classified as a living thing, and is often called the building block of life. It is usually a microscopic structure containing nuclear and cytoplasmic material enclosed by a semi-permeable membrane. Some organisms, such as most bacteria, are unicellular(consist of a single cell). Other organisms, such as humans, are multicellular. Each cell is at least somewhat self-contained and self-maintaining: it can take in nutrients, convert these nutrients into energy, carry out specialized functions, and reproduce as necessary. Each cell stores its own set of instructions for carrying out each of these activities. Comparison of structures between animal and plant cells Typical animal cell Typical plant cell Organelles Nucleus Nucleolus (within nucleus) Rough endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Smooth ER Ribosomes Cytoskeleton Golgi apparatus Cytoplasm Mitochondria Vesicles Lysosomes Centrosome Centrioles Nucleus Nucleolus (within nucleus) Rough ER Smooth ER Ribosomes Cytoskeleton Golgi apparatus (dictiosomes) Cytoplasm Mitochondria Vacuoles Cell wall ORGANELLES Nucleus- Controls the cell. It consists of the nuclear envelope, nucleolus, chromatin, and nucleoplasm. Nucleolus- are non-membraneous matrix of RNA (ribonucleic acid) and protein. found in the nucleus. Instructions in DNA are copied here. It works with ribosomes in the synthesis of protein. Chromosomes- Determines what traits a living thing will have, passes information from parent to offspring. Cell Membrane- same as unit membrane. Gives the cell shape, holds the cytoplasm, and controls what moves into and out of the cell. acts as a boundary layer to contain the cytoplasm (fluid in cell) interlocking surfaces bind cells together. Cytoplasm- Jellylike material (cytosol and organelles), most of the cells chemical reactions take place there, and made up of mostly water and some chemicals. Vacuoles- Liquid-filled, may store food, water, minerals, or wastes. There maybe more than one. In plants it takes up a lot of space, produce turgor pressure against cell wall for support. Mitochondria- Produce energy when food is broken down, often called the powerhouse of the cell. Its structure is composed of modified double unit membrane (protein, lipid). Its inner membrane infolded to form cristae. It is the site of cellular respiration i.e. the release of chemical energy from food Glucose + Oxygen > Carbon Dioxide + Water + Energy (ATP) Ribosomes- Where proteins are made, and often connected to the endoplasmic reticulum. A cell may have as many as 500,000. They are non-membraneous, spherical bodies composed of RNA (ribonucleic acid) and protein enzymes. They are the site of protein synthesis. Endoplasmic Reticulum- The transportation system in the cell, connects the nuclear membrane with the cell membrane. Used in detoxification of the cell. ER. Forms a tubular network throughout the cell. Provides a large surface area for the organization of chemical reactions and synthesis. Centrioles- Found only in animal cells, is used in cell reproduction to help the chromosomes arrange before cell division. They are nine triplets of microtubules form one centriole. Two centrioles form one centrosome. They form spindle fibres to separate chromosomes during cell division. Golgi apparatus(bodies)- Stacks of flattened sacs of unit membrane (cisternae) vesicles pinch off the edges. Modifies chemicals to make them functional. Secretes chemicals in tiny vesicles. Stores chemicals. May produce endoplasmic reticulum. Lysosomes- digests food particles with enzymes, pinched of pieces of golgi apparatus. Are membrane bound bag containing hydrolytic enzymes. Are hydrolytic enzyme = (water split biological catalyst) i.e. using water to split chemical bonds. They break large molecules into small molecules by inserting a molecule of water into the chemical bond. Cell Wall- Found only in plant cells. Forms a thick outer covering outside the cell membrane, gives the plant support and shape. Is a non-living secretion of the cell membrane, composed of cellulose. They are cellulose fibrils deposited in alternating layers for strength. Cell wall contains pits (openings) that make it totally permeable. It provides protection from physical injury and together with vacuole, provides skeletal support. Chloroplasts- Found only in plant cells. Found in the cytoplasm of green plant cells, contain chlorophyll, traps the energy from light, and is where photosynthesis takes place. It is composed of a double layer of modified membrane (protein,chlorophyll, lipid). The inner membrane invaginates to form layers called grana (sing., granum) where chlorophyll is concentrated. It is the site of photosynthesis chlorophyll Carbon Dioxide + Water > Glucose + Oxygen radiant energy (food). TISSUE There are many different types of cells in the human body. None of these cells function well on there own, they are part of the larger organism that is called you. Tissue is a cellular organizational level intermediate between cells and a complete organism. Hence, a tissue is an ensemble of cells, not necessarily identical, but from the same origin, that together carry out a specific function. Organsare then formed by the functional grouping together of multiple tissues. Cells group together in the body to form tissues a collection of similar cells that group together to perform a specialized function. There are 4 primary tissue types in the human body: epithelial tissue, connective tissue, muscle tissue and nerve tissue. 1. Epithelial Tissue- The cells of epithelial tissue pack tightly together and form continuous sheets that serve as linings in different parts of the body. Epithelial tissue serve as membranes lining organs and helping to keep the bodys organs separate, in place and protected. Some examples of epithelial tissue are the outer layer of the skin, the inside of the mouth and stomach, and the tissue surrounding the bodys organs. 2. Connective Tissue- There are many types of connective tissue in the body. Generally speaking, connective tissue adds support and structure to the body. Most types of connective tissue contain fibrous strands of the protein collagen that add strength to connective tissue. Some examples of connective tissue include the inner layers of skin, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, bone and fat tissue. In addition to these more recognizable forms of connective tissue, blood is also considered a form of connective tissue. 3. Muscle Tissue- Muscle tissue is a specialized tissue that can contract. Muscle tissue contains the specialized proteins actin and myosin that slide past one another and allow movement. Examples of muscle tissue are contained in the muscles throughout your body. 4. Nerve Tissue- Nerve tissue contains two types of cells: neurons and glial cells. Nerve tissue has the ability to generate and conduct electrical signals in the body. These electrical messages are managed by nerve tissue in the brain and transmitted down the spinal cord to the body. ORGANS Organs are the next level of organization in the body. An organ is a structure that contains at least two different types of tissue functioning together for a common purpose. There are many different organs in the body: the liver, kidneys, heart, even your skin is an organ. In fact, the skin is the largest organ in the human body and provides us with an excellent example for explanation purposes. The skin is composed of three layers: the epidermis, dermis and subcutaneous layer. The epidermis is the outermost layer of skin. It consists of epithelial tissue in which the cells are tightly packed together providing a barrier between the inside of the body and the outside world. Below the epidermis lies a layer of connective tissue called the dermis. In addition to providing support for the skin, the dermis has many other purposes. The dermis contains blood vessels that nourish skin cells. It contains nerve tissue that provides feeling in the skin. And it contains muscle tissue that is responsible for giving you goosebumps when you get cold or frightened. The subcutaneous layer is beneath the dermis and consists mainly of a type of connective tissue called adipose tissue. Adipose tissue is more commonly known as fat and it helps cushion the skin and provide protection from cold temperatures. Nervous tissue: is one of four major classes of vertebrate tissue. Nervous tissue is the main component of the nervous system-the brain, spinal cord, and nerves-which regulates and controls body functions. It is composed of neurones, which transmit impulses, and the neuroglia, which assist propagation of the nerveimpulse as well as provide nutrientsto the neuron. Every time you get pinched, part of your nerve tissue is damaged. Nervous tissue is made of nerve cells that come in many varieties, all of which are distinctly characteristic by the axon or long stem like part of the cell that sends action potential signals to the next cell. Functions of the nervous system are sensory input, integration, controls of muscles and glands, homeostasis, and mental activity. All living cells have the ability to react to stimuli. Nervous tissue is specialized to react to stimuli and to conduct impulses to various organs in the body which bring about a response to the stimulus. Nerve tissue (as in the brain, spinal cord and peripheral nerves that branch throughout the body) are all made up of specialized nerve cells called neurons. Neurons are easily stimulated and transmit impulses very rapidly. A nerve is made up of many nerve cell fibres (neurons) bound together by connective tissue. A sheath of dense connective tissue, the epineurium surrounds the nerve. This sheath penetrates the nerve to form the perineurium which surrounds bundles of nerve fibres. Blood vessels of various sizes can be seen in the epineurium. The endoneurium, which consists of a thin layer of loose connective tissue, surrounds the individual nerve fibres. The cell body is enclosed by a cell (plasma) membrane and has a central nucleus. Granules called Nissl bodies are found in the cytoplasm of the cell body. Within the cell body, extremely fine neurofibrils extend from the dendrites into the axon. The axon is surrounded by the myelin sheath, which forms a whitish, non-cellular, fatty layer around the axon. Outside the myelin sheath is a cellular layer called the neurilemma or sheath of Schwann cells. The myelin sheath together with the neurilemma is also known as the medullary sheath. This medullary sheath is interrupted at intervals by the nodes of Ranvier. Neuronal Communication Nerve cells are functionally made to each other at a junction known as a synapse, where the terminal branches of an axon and the dendrites of another neuron lie in close proximity to each other but normally without direct contact. Information is transmitted across the gap by chemical secretions called neurotransmitters. It causes activation in the post-synaptic cell. All cells possess the ability to respond to stimuli.

Analysis of Barbara Kruger

Analysis of Barbara Kruger For this short essay writing I get an example of single contemporary artist Barbara Kruger. Barbara Kruger is an American conceptual artist. A lot of her effort consists of black and white photographs overlaid with declarative captions-in white-on-red Futura Bold Oblique. The phrases in her works frequently consist of use of pronouns such as you, your, I, we, and they. I begin my essay with the retort how Barbara Kruger be considered illustrative of Baudrillards or Barthes theories. Postmodernism was born out of a response in opposition to the policy of Modernism. Most particularly, Postmodern artists discarded the Modernist obsession with the aesthetic and began by questioning the recognized qualities tied to this aesthetic. As the Postmodern movement progressed, this critique intensified and moved beyond simply formal concerns; artists also began criticizing many underlying notions of Modernism, together with ideas about creativity and authority. Simultaneously, French philosophers Roland Barthes and Jean Baudrillard introduced theories concerning the rising artistic practices of appropriation and simulation. Barthes, in his elaboration on the theory of appropriation, described principles and practices that a lot of artists were employing in their critiques on Modernism. The work of American artist Barbara Kruger gives the most powerful embodimen t of Barthes theories of appropriation. Roland Barthes, in his 1967 essay The Death of the Author, stripped mutually authority and authorship from artists and writers, declaring, A text is not a line of words releasing a single theological meaning (the message of the Author-God), but a multi-dimensional space in which a variety of writings, none of them new, blend and collide. This theory not only described the postmodern artistic practices of the time, but it undermined Modernisms lofty goals and claims of creating original artwork. According to Barthes, no author or artist creates something new and unique. Instead, every formed thing is a recycled regurgitation of that which preceded it. As Postmodernism continued to develop, many artists not only acknowledged Barthess denouncement of originality but also embraced it as a means through which to further critique the works and tenets of Modernism. These artists favored the readymade object as more powerful than the supposedly new crafted objects shaped by Modernist artists. By openly acknowledging the process of appropriation that occurs within the manufacture of all art, these artists leveraged the power of pre-existing imagery and signs to produce new works with multiple layers and multiple meanings. Barbara Kruger began her career as a graphic designer and commercial artist for publications and magazines such as Mademoiselle. Her work as a postmodern artist began to garner attention in the early 1980s; about fifteen years later than Barthes published The Death of the Author. Krugers experience in the profitable design world greatly influenced her work both officially and philosophically. She embraced both the imagery and language of advertising, combining black and white photographs with ambiguous but accusatory statements in collage-like presentations. But she concurrently rejected the philosophies of commercial advertising and the majority, by raising questions concerning gender equality, consumerism, and stereotypes. Regarding the state of culture, In Untitled (Your Comfort is My Silence), 1981, Kruger combined a black and white image of a mans head with his index finger over his mouth and two lines of text reading, Your comfort is my silence. The initial two words cover the mans eyes, further eliminating his exact identity and reducing him to a generic symbol of masculine dominance and control. The text is presented in a combination of black text over white rectangles and white text in red rectangles in a cut-and-paste manner. By employing collage to join pre-existing imagery with authoritative statements, Kruger practices the appropriation that Barthes described. Krugers work also assigns an interpretive role to both the viewer and culture at large, as posited by Barthes. By keeping her statements to some extent cryptic or ambiguous, Kruger forces viewers to build meaning from their own earlier experiences, thereby actively participating in the procedure of appropriation. In addition I am going to cover the answers of is it simplistic for an artist to rely heavily on theory, Does good art go beyond theory and Are these original works? While Kruger and other artists who deliberately practice appropriation are most likely aware of Barthess philosophies and statements, it is hard to say how much their work and practice is shaped by such theory. Oftentimes theory seems somewhat reflexive to contemporary practices; critics notice existing artistic trends and then posit theories and extend technical language to describe such practices. As such, one could disagree that artistic practice influences theory just as much as theory influences the practice that follows. Certainly theory plays some role in virtually every piece or work of art, even if the producer or artist is unaware of it. Sometimes, the identical theory can even direct artists in two completely different or opposing directions. Modern theory, for example, called for aesthetic experience and form al purity, and many artists worked to attain the ideal representation of these criteria. Postmodern practice should not be viewed as alike attempt to perfectly render the theories of Postmodernism; rather, it is more perfectly a reaction against the tenets of Modern theory. From my point of view it seems then that theory and practice share a somewhat cyclical relationship. Artists produce new work, and then critics develop theories and language to describe it. Other artists take these newly-formed theories as information for what constitutes art at the time and turn out their art accordingly. After a period of extremely following the most recently canonized theories, other artists consciously operate outside of the dominant theory or refuse it altogether and produce another new type of work. This appears to be a recurring trend in the relationship among art theory and art practice. The work of artists such as Barbara Kruger, poses many essential questions and reiterates those raised by Roland Barthes. Although such artists intentionally employ the process of appropriation in producing their artwork, their works are no less original than that of other artists. Even Modernist painters, who so adamantly strove for originality and uniqueness, operated within the framework and visual language of the preceding millennia of art and history. As Barthes says, The writer [or artist] can only imitate a gesture that is always anterior, not at all original. Possibly this means that, concurrently, not anything is original and everything is original.

A Critical Analysis of Wind By Ted Hughes Essay -- Papers Essays

A Critical Analysis of Wind By Ted Hughes Hughes's opening line is sculpted in such a way that it gives the reader an abundance of sensations. The poet achieves amazing efficiency in the line "far out at sea all night" in that the reader is exposed to distance, time and environment. The metaphor of the house being "out at sea" projects the image of a boat "far out" feeling totally isolated. The house faces wave upon wave of inexhaustible pounding from the wind as a boat would from an enraged sea. The time scale of "all night" could literally mean all night or it may refer to the perception that the wind is so acutely intense that it feels prolonged. The words "crashing", "booming" and "stampeding elevate the wind to one of biblical proportions which sounds like an orchestra thumping out a killer crescendo. The line "stampeding the fields" accentuate the brutality of the wind attacking the natural surroundings. In keeping with the oceanic metaphor the house "floundering" evokes a sense futility. The alliteration in "black" and "blinding" impose emphasis upon the words and a heightened sense of awareness in the reader. The second stanza is a witness to the winds legacy. The magnitude of the winds power is illustrated with "the hills had new places". The ultimate measure of the winds potency is that its changed the environment which we would normally imagine reassuringly permanent. The personification in the "wind wielded blade-light" makes the wind dangerous and randomly spiteful. I think the " black and emerald, flexing like the lens of a mad eye" refers back to the sea metaphor in the first stanza. A stormy sky like a stormy ... ...e last two lines of the poem Hughes writes the "window tremble to come in" and "stones cry out". The personification in "tremble" and "cry" show that even inanimate objects are displaying signs of fear and distress. The theme for the poem is ultimate respect for nature's weapons and total humility for anything caught in the conflict. In some instances respect turns to terror as if hiding from an omnipotent tyrant. The structure of the poem is consistent throughout with six stanzas of equal length. Hughes uses a lot of alliteration to break up the reading fluency to reflect the choppy subject of the poem. Hughes's use of metaphor skilfully illustrate the scale and nature of the wind whilst drawing attention to the way the wind exploits the delicacy of the surroundings we usually consider so dependably solid.

Alcohol :: Alcoholism

After doing some research on alcohol I have come to the realization that alcoholism is a disease that affects millions of lives everyday. In the following essay I will discuss some things that I have learned and I will try to give a clear understanding on what steps I will need to take to make appropriate choices in the future.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  I have learned that alcohol is not all fun and games. It affects many aspects in a person’s life. I learned of the affects it has on my reaction time, my nervous system, obviously my thought process, and also my reproductive system. Alcohol kills in many ways if it becomes an abused substance. It plays a major role in more than half of all automobile accidents. Drinking and driving is dangerous not only to yourself but to others to. Plus it is not worth getting caught by the police driving under the influence.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Not only have I became more knowledgeable about the affects of drinking but I have learned that if I chose to drink not to take the risk of drinking on campus. West Chester has strict rules about this policy and I am now aware of such consequences of getting caught. But I had the worst of it being that I was holding the bag and that we got caught by the police. Now I have to deal with the West Chester bureau police as well, which will wind up many more things happening to me, including going to court and probably getting a hefty fine as well as my license taken away.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Some good advice I might have for someone who chooses to drink on campus is â€Å"don’t†. It is not worth getting caught by the school and possibly the police. If you do choose to drink do it on safe grounds such as somebody’s house or apartment. But even then it is still possible to get caught by the guard beings that you may be too intoxicated. So the best advice I could give someone is to sleep over a friend’s house off campus somewhere and stay out of trouble with the school because in the

Samsung Electronics

Submitted by: Aneesa Amjad INTRODUCTION6 SAMSUNG VALUE AND CODE OF CONDUCT6 Business Principles7 ?We promote health and safety. 7 ?We are a socially responsible corporate citizen. 7 ?We comply with laws and ethical standards. 7 ?We maintain a clean organizational culture. 7 ?We respect customers, shareholders and employees. 7 ?We care about environment. 7 Samsung Values8 ?People8 ?Excellence8 ?Change8 ?Integrity8 ?Co-prosperity8 Samsung Philosophy9 NEW VISION9 HUMAN RESOURCE DEPARTMENT9 Vision and Mission10 HRD Philosophy10 JOB ANALYSIS11 RECRUITMENT11 Recruitment tools11 Newspapers:11 Online Recruitment (e-cruitment):11Educational Institutes:12 E-mails:12 4/5 Grade Recruitment12 Selection process12 Application Form12 Document Screening13 SSAT13 Interview13 Physical examination14 Join Samsung14 3 Grade Recruitment14 Person with career and doctorate possessors14 ?Samsung Shared Value program (SVP)15 ?Samsung Business Leader Program (SLP)15 ?Samsung Global Expert Program (SGP)15 SAMSUN G RESEARCH CENTER16 MANAGERIAL DEVEOPMENT AND TRAINING16 TRAINING AND DEVELOPING16 HRD PROGRAMS17 ?SVP New employee Orientation17 ?SVP Samsung summer festival17 ?SLP17 ?Samsung MBA Course17 ?SLP Executive development Course18 SLP Senior Executive development Course18 ?SGP18 ?SGP Regional Specialist course18 ?SGP Premier Course19 ?SGP Overseas Country Manger Development Course19 ?SGP Global Leader Course19 ?SGP Language Course19 EDUCATION IN 201020 PERFORMANCE APPRAISAL20 EMPLOYEE BENEFITS21 ?Group insurance21 ?Physical exams21 ?Financial aid for medical costs21 ?Congratulatory/condolence pay21 ?Use of leisure facilities21 EMPLOYEE HEALTH22 Employee Health and Disease Management22 ?Health Research Center22 ?Mental Health22 ?Employee Health Management23 EMPLOYEE WORK-LIFE BENEFITS23 ?Work & Life Balance23 RETIREMENT BENIFITS23 Outplacement Program23 ?Major Reasons of Retirement24 COMPENSATION PLANS24 LABOR POLICIES25 ?Child Labor and Forced Labor25 ?Labor Union Policy and Labor Counci l25 INTERVIEW QUESTIONS26 Exhibits31 Staffing Manager33 Samsung Electronics America- Ridgefield Park, NJ (Greater New York City Area)33 Job Description33 Desired Skills & Experience34 INTRODUCTION From its beginning as a small export business in Taegu, Korea, Samsung has grown to become one of the world’s leading electronics companies, specializing in digital appliances and media, semi-conductors, memory, and system integration.Today Samsung’s innovative and top quality products are world recognized. It’s a global company with approximately 190,000 employees and is operating in 61 countries worldwide. SAMSUNG VALUE AND CODE OF CONDUCT Samsung Electronics is fully committed to complying with local laws and regulation as well as applying a strict global code of conduct to all employees. With an aim to become one of the most ethical companies in the world that is respected by its stakeholders, Samsung Electronics continue to train its employees and operate monitori ng systems while practicing fair corporate management.The code of conduct includes elimination of nationality or gender discrimination, transparent disclosure of business information, customer information protection and partner collaboration. All of Samsung Electronics employees will have to follow this code of conduct in their relationship with their colleagues and customers. Business Principles Samsung Electronics announced the Five Samsung Business Principles† in 2005, and it serve as the foundation for its global code of conduct in compliance with legal and ethical standards. (Exhibit 1) These five business principles are as follows: We promote health and safety. * We are a socially responsible corporate citizen. * We comply with laws and ethical standards. * We maintain a clean organizational culture. * We respect customers, shareholders and employees. * We care about environment. Samsung Values Samsung believes that the key to good business is to live by strong values. A t Samsung, code of conduct and these core values are at the heart of every decision they make. (Exhibit 1) * People At Samsung, a company is its people and they are dedicated to giving their people a lot of opportunities to reach their full potential. * ExcellenceEverything they do at Samsung is driven by a passion for excellence and a persistent commitment to develop the best products and services on the market. * Change In today’s world due to globalization, change is constant and innovation is very important for a company’s survival. And Samsung have done that for 70 years, they set their sights on the future, predicting market needs and demands so that they can achieve long term success. * Integrity The foundation of their business is that they operate in an ethical way. Everything they do is guided by a moral compass that ensures fairness and respect for all stakeholders. Co-prosperity A business cannot be successful if it does not create prosperity and opportunit y for others. Samsung is socially and environmentally responsible corporate citizen in every community where they operate around the globe. Samsung Philosophy At Samsung, they follow a simple business philosophy: to devote their talent and technology to creating superior products and services that contribute to a better global society. Everyday their people bring this philosophy to life. Their leaders search for the brightest talent from around the world, and give them the resources they need to be the best at what they do.The result is that all of their products have the power to improve lives. (Exhibit 1) NEW VISION â€Å"Inspire the world, create the future† This new vision shows that Samsung Electronics is committed to inspire the world by leveraging Samsung’s three key strengths: â€Å"New Technology†, â€Å"Innovative Products†, and â€Å"Creative solutions. † and to promote new value for Samsung’s core networks—Industry, Partne rs and Employees. (Exhibit 2) Samsung has planned to become one of the world’s top five brands by 2020. Samsung has also established three strategic approaches in its management, â€Å"Creativity, Partnership, and Talent.HUMAN RESOURCE DEPARTMENT To achieve long term goals, human resource department plays a very important role. Employees are its most important asset. Human resource department plays a crucial role in the company’s success. Samsung Electronics believes that human resources and technology development both have separate functions and both are important to overall quality management. For the success of Samsung electronics it is very important that all employees enjoy doing their jobs and gets along with each other in the company.Vision and Mission Samsung has its own Human Resources Development Center. The aim of Samsung Human Resources Development Center is to become the world’s best HRD center and to develop people with creativity, passion and a c hallenging spirit who will make Samsung the world’s leading company in the 21st century. Samsung HRD Center devotes itself to carry the management philosophy into practice, spread Samsung Values, play a centripetal part to bring the values and actions of Samsung people toward one direction, lead the creative innovation nd change in the global era, and support the global management as the leader of the globalization. HRD Philosophy Since its foundation, Samsung has focused on and respected people with â€Å"A company is its people†. Samsungs management philosophy and traditions have become the key driving force of materializing its continuous growth and making it one of the world’s best companies. Since its introduction to open recruitment system in 1957, Samsung has developed its people in earnest. For about 50 years, Samsung has continued its history and tradition of developing people.After Samsung HRD established HoAm-Kwan in 1982 and Chang Jo Kwan in 1991 to implement â€Å"Samsung with high potentials† as the birthplace of educating Samsung people, they have played an important role of maintaining, succeeding, and developing the culture of Samsung. JOB ANALYSIS When a new position is established, the Human Resources department prepares a job analysis clearly identifying the positions responsibilities and overall relationship to the company. (Exhibit 3) RECRUITMENT Samsung Research Center intends to recruit, hire and place applicants on the basis of the applicant’s relative knowledge, skills and abilities.The decision to employ an applicant will be based solely on the individual’s qualification for the particular position along with other requisite job skills. Recruitment tools Upon getting informed the HRM Department invites a wide pool of applicants through any or all of the following mediums. Newspapers: Vacancies are advertised on leading newspapers. Online Recruitment (e-cruitment): Application forms are availa ble online at Samsung website and interested candidates can fill and submit them online. Educational Institutes:The HRM Department conducts annual job fairs in various educational institutes in which presentations about job prospects and the company is given. E-mails: Interested candidates can email their CVs to HRM Department, which are then collected in a file and consulted whenever job opportunities arise. 4/5 Grade Recruitment This is the recruitment for the production/manufacture class. It proceeds with announcement when there are vacancies. The selection process is given below: Selection process Application Form Document Screening SSATInterview Physical Examination Join Samsung Application Form The employment application is candidate’s first chance to present his qualifications to the organization. As such, it is extremely critical for his/her continued participation in the examination process. Before beginning, one has to review thoroughly what the Job Announcement spe cifies as the requirements to qualify for the position. Candidate must meet these criteria to be considered for the position; ensure that, otherwise candidate will be wasting his/her effort in completing the application.Document Screening They screen the documents provided by applicants on the basis of job requirement. Those who do not fulfill job requirements are screened out during this step. Those who are passed through this step have to take Global Samsung aptitude test. SSAT Samsung aptitude test is designed to determine level of technical and/or analytical abilities associated with the particular position for which candidate had applied. Interview The List of Eligible Candidates is established after SSAT and then it is sent to the Department(s) that is hiring to fill a current vacancy.The Department Head is responsible for setting up selection interviews. Further the management of Samsung takes three types of interviews 1. First interview is taken by the HR manager which they name as â€Å"initial interview. 2. Manager of department, HR Manager and two V. P takes the second interview. 3. Structured sequential interview is taken by HR manager and C. E. O The Department Head will be looking for the candidate with the best qualifications for the particular position. Physical examinationThe candidates who are selected to fill the vacancy will undergo a medical examination, drug screen, background investigation, and a probationary period before attaining permanent employment status. Join Samsung After checking all physical exams, medically fit candidates are called to fill the vacancy. 3 Grade Recruitment This is the recruitment for Management/the Management support department, various Research and Development organizations. It is processed with dear Samsung job advertisement. The same selection process is being followed for 3 grade recruitment as well.Person with career and doctorate possessors When there is a vacancy in each department, the resume of appli cants are reviewed by the HR department and they make contact with the applicant on the individual basis. Application Form Individually contact with applicants Interview Physical Examination Join Samsung HRD STRATEGY To create innovation and challenge, Samsung HRD center develops human resources by the following three programs: SVP, SLP and SGP * Samsung Shared Value program (SVP) To achieve â€Å"Samsung toward one direction† by sharing Samsung values (Future Management) cultivate next generation leaders Samsung Business Leader Program (SLP) To become â€Å"world leading company† by developing leaders of the next generation (Trust Management) Share core values of Samsung * Samsung Global Expert Program (SGP) To achieve â€Å"Global Samsung† by developing global competencies (Globalized Management) Develop Global Competency SAMSUNG RESEARCH CENTER Samsung Research center is an innovative organization offering unlimited opportunity to those who struggle to develo p and grow to their fullest potential. They work together to bond individual achievement with company goals.The rewards for superior performance come personally as well as professionally. To create an environment where everybody feels a close relationship with the company, understands its policies and operation is one of the priorities of Samsung research center. MANAGERIAL DEVEOPMENT AND TRAINING Samsung electronics have in- house development center (human resource development center) and universities. They combine classroom learning (lectures and seminars) with other techniques such as assessment centers. TRAINING AND DEVELOPINGSamsung Electronics assesses individual work capabilities according to job function and offers a wide range of training opportunities to nurture all employees into experts in their respective fields. To provide all employees, including those based overseas, with access to comparable levels of training programs regardless of location, they have set up a glob al education portal and mobile education system led by the HR Development Center, and diverse programs are offered through training departments according to business division and work function.There are a lot of programs which Samsungs’ HR department follows to train and develop their employees and they are as follows: HRD PROGRAMS * SVP New employee Orientation This course is to develop Samsung people for the 21st century to have the basic quality for Samsung people and proper business creed. The 4 week course helps new recruits understand the history, tradition, key values, and management philosophy of Samsung, in addition to building teamwork, creativity, and a challenging spirit through various experimental learning. * SVP Samsung summer festivalThis festival is to enhance group identity and pride as Samsung people, CEOs of affiliates, new executives, global leaders in overseas offices and branches, representatives from various classes as well as new recruits participate in this course, which is held every June, and this course acts as a cultural and value group activity for all. * SLP It develops high potentials who will lead the future of Samsung and fosters them as the leaders of the next generation. * Samsung MBA Course This course is to expand the pool of potential leaders of the next generation of Samsung.Every year since 1995, Samsung has selected qualified Samsung people and allowed them to study in famous overseas or local business schools for two years to learn practical management knowledge and global management. * SLP Executive development Course This course is to develop the leaders of the next generation who have global competitiveness and all around management competency. Qualified general managers learn global business management competency, leadership development, and problem solving in the field via action learning through this five month course. SLP Senior Executive development Course This course is to encourage the management lea ders of the next generation who have strategic thinking abilities and management insight. Elite senior executives learn business modules to boost their global competitiveness and advance leadership development focusing on value, and perform various activities through action learning in this four month course. * SGP It is Samsungs global competency enhancement program that develops global business competency and foreign language skills. * SGP Regional Specialist courseThis course is to develop global experts with global sense as the spearheads of globalization in the 21st century. Since 1990, every year, qualified Samsung people have been dispatched to the world including North America, Europe, china, Japan, East Asia, West Asia, and Central and South America for 1 year to acquaint themselves with local business customs and cultures through various experiences for localization of Samsung people. * SGP Premier Course This course is to encourage global leaders who have excellent foreig n language ability and global business competency.For foreign language ability, Samsung people focus on learning how to communicate effectively and speak in foreign languages at the advanced level. For business competency, they focus on developing their global business skills through the best practices of management and learning how to accept different cultures. * SGP Overseas Country Manger Development Course This course is to develop global leaders and executives for overseas offices. Samsung people who will be and are already dispatched to overseas offices learn the practical management and management research for their overseas offices, leadership development and global mind. SGP Global Leader Course This course is to provide overseas executives and managers with a deeper understanding of Samsung values to enhance awareness of a shared value community. The course’s highlight is to participate in the Samsung Summer Festival at the end of the course. * SGP Language Course S amsung people who will be dispatched to overseas offices or they have to handle foreign related works learn ten weeks of English, Japanese, Chinese or Spanish to enhance the foreign language ability. EDUCATION IN 2010 Samsung Electronics continues to enhance employee competencies by utilizing online and offline education programs.Education enhances the effectiveness of employees by offering more online and mobile course. PERFORMANCE APPRAISAL Samsung Electronics evaluates performance of all its employees against a consistent goal. Required capabilities by position are identified, based on which capability performance is conducted. The jobs are evaluated on yearly basis under 360o method; the competent employees are rewarded in shape of promotions, bonus, increments and annual holidays and promotion. The results of an appraisal can be used to identify areas for further development of the employee.The organization also uses different questionnaires, which consist of numerous questions about the behavior of the employee, and then on the basis of these answers personality of the employee is judged. When evaluation is made the unsatisfactory performers are given warning. The employee after warning is put under observation, for some period of time and if the employees’ performance is still unsatisfied then are demoted or fired. Samsung SDI has institutional means up and running to guide fair and understandable evaluation and for the evaluated to defend themselves.If the evaluated submits an application to file a protest within five days after disclosure of evaluation results, HR committee is convened with the evaluator and the evaluated present and adjusts the results, if necessary. INCENTIVE PLANS Individual performance determines individual capability reward and group performance determines Productivity Incentive (PI) and Profit Sharing (PS). EMPLOYEE BENEFITS They offer benefits to their employees required by law as well as internal benefit programs to enh ance quality of life for employees.Both regular employees and those working on contract basis can take advantage of numerous benefits which include: (Exhibit) * Group insurance * Physical exams * Financial aid for medical costs * Congratulatory/condolence pay * Use of leisure facilities In 2010, they increased the physical exam components to promote the health of employees. Other benefits offered to employees are as follows: EMPLOYEE HEALTH Samsung Electronics makes every effort to create a safe and pleasant work environment. All of their production plants have obtained OHSAS18001 certification for occupational health and safety management system.Senior executives of the company have special interest in recent concerns on workers’ cancer risk. From July 2010, they have commissioned a leading international environment and health consultancy to conduct an epidemiologic survey to ensure objectivity and transparency in the survey findings. This objective investigation is expected to cover every possible cause and clear up suspicions completely. Employee Health and Disease Management * Health Research Center They have opened the health research center in April 2010.The Samsung Electronics Health Research Center was established under the Semiconductor Business to carry out mid- and long-term research projects related to employees’ health and wellbeing. The center is manned by researchers in health sciences, medicine, chemical engineering, pharmacology and nursing. It is conducting research into matters such as hazardous chemical substances, work environment and epidemiology, and new substance manufacturing processes. * Mental Health They have expanded psychological evaluations in the regular physical exam from 2011 to help employee’s better cope with emotional strain and stress.The evaluations will check whether employees suffer from any conditions caused by stress related to problems with work or their personal lives. If necessary, employees wi ll be able to receive professional counseling based on online and offline diagnoses. These measures help employees lead healthy and productive lives. * Employee Health Management As part of efforts to promote employees' health and maintain a pleasant work environment, they offer customized health management programs including programs for weight loss, smoking cessation and emotional health.They also operate a center for the prevention of musculoskeletal diseases which allows employees to check their spinal health. (Exhibit ) EMPLOYEE WORK-LIFE BENEFITS * Work ; Life Balance Work hours are continuously monitored at Samsung Electronics to promote work-life balance. In particular, they have introduced a flexible time program for administrative staff so they can set their own work hours to enhance quality of work life. Work hours at the global production subsidiaries are adequately managed according to local employment standards nd the Electronic Industry Citizenship Coalition (EICC) gu idelines. RETIREMENT BENIFITS * Outplacement Program Up through 2010, they have provided assistance for 2,216 retiring employees find new jobs or start a business through the career development centers. In 2010, they signed an agreement with the Korea Federation of Small and Medium Business to help seasoned specialists find new jobs at small and mid-size enterprises. In 2011, they offered career planning courses for incumbent employees. (Exhibit) * Major Reasons of RetirementKorea Overseas 1. Study 1. Change of Occupation 2. Change of Occupation 2. Family Reason 3. Health Problem 3. Study 4. Domestic Affairs 4. Health problem 5. Contract Expiration 5. Dissatisfied with Type of Work COMPENSATION PLANSIn 2010, Samsung Electronics made upward adjustments in the salaries of all employees and applied a system of accumulated annual salary for individual workers to differentiate compensation according to performance. Samsung’s compensation scheme is based on ‘compensation wi thout discrimination and compensation for performance’ to ensure internal impartiality and external competitiveness. Those on the same position are given same amount of base salary disregarding gender, nationality, religion, social status, and age. On top of it, differentiated compensation is made according to individual performance.LABOR POLICIES * Child Labor and Forced Labor Discrimination, forced labor and child labor are prohibited in accordance with articles 4, 6 and 16 of the company’s rules of employment. In addition, they strictly abide by the 24 ILO conventions ratified by the Korean government. In 2010, there were no violations of laws and regulations related to child labor and forced labor. * Labor Union Policy and Labor Council Samsung’s basic HR policy is summarized in the following statement: â€Å"The workers and the company will cooperate for mutual advancement based on the principles of co-existence, co-prosperity and harmony. Samsung Electron ics strives to provide superior working conditions relative to its peers so that employees do not feel the need for a labor union. All of their business sites across the globe have a labor council to facilitate dialogue between labor and management. Other major communication channels include the GWP committee and safety council. Each of their business sites in Korea has a worker council. Each worker council holds at least one regular meeting per quarter. The council also gathers when the need arises to discuss matters such as salary adjustments.It enables grievances and requests to be swiftly conveyed to management so that the necessary corrective measures can be pursued. Due consideration was given to employees’ requests to improve the work environment. In 2010, the worker council addressed several issues through expanding the flexible time program, establishing infrastructure for stress relief, and improving office environment. INTERVIEW QUESTIONS ———â €”————————————- What are Samsung values and code of conduct? ————————————————- _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ What tools do you use to recruit job candidates?Like do you use advertising, employment agencies, college recruiting or some other method? _________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Do you prefer outside candidates or inside candidates? _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ What types of test do you use to measur e a wide range of candidate attributes? _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Do you check applicant’s background before selecting him? ————————————————- __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________________ What is the selection process of Samsung? ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ What type of interviews is done at Samsung? __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ What is the HRD strategy of Samsung? _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___ ————————————————- What is the function of Samsung Research Center? ————————————————- ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ What are HRD programs implemented for training and developing employees? __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________ What education programs are being offered at Samsung? ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ What types of benefits are being offered to employees at Samsung? _____________________________________________________________________________

The Twilight Saga 3: Eclipse Chapter 17. ALLIANCE

â€Å"BELLA?† Edward's soft voice came from behind me. I turned to see him spring lightly up the porch steps, his hair windblown from running. He pulled me into his arms at once, just like he had in the parking lot, and kissed me again. This kiss frightened me. There was too much tension, too strong an edge to the way his lips crushed mine – like he was afraid we only had so much time left to us. I couldn't let myself think about that. Not if I was going to have to act human for the next several hours. I pulled away from him. â€Å"Let's get this stupid party over with,† I mumbled, not meeting his eyes. He put his hands on either side of my face, waiting until I looked up. â€Å"I won't let anything happen to you.† I touched his lips with the fingers of my good hand. â€Å"I'm not worried about myself so much.† â€Å"Why am I not surprised by that?† he muttered to himself. He took a deep breath, and then he smiled slightly. â€Å"Ready to celebrate?† he asked. I groaned. He held the door for me, keeping his arm securely around my waist. I stood frozen there for a minute, then I slowly shook my head. â€Å"Unbelievable.† Edward shrugged. â€Å"Alice will be Alice.† The interior of the Cullens' home had been transformed into a nightclub – the kind that didn't often exist in real life, only on TV. â€Å"Edward!† Alice called from beside a gigantic speaker. â€Å"I need your advice.† She gestured toward a towering stack of CDs. â€Å"Should we give them familiar and comforting? Or† – she gestured to a different pile – â€Å"educate their taste in music?† â€Å"Keep it comforting,† Edward recommended. â€Å"You can only lead the horse to water.† Alice nodded seriously, and started throwing the educational CDs into a box. I noticed that she had changed into a sequined tank top and red leather pants. Her bare skin reacted oddly to the pulsing red and purple lights. â€Å"I think I'm underdressed.† â€Å"You're perfect,† Edward disagreed. â€Å"You'll do,† Alice amended. â€Å"Thanks.† I sighed. â€Å"Do you really think people will come?† Anyone could hear the hope in my voice. Alice made a face at me. â€Å"Everyone will come,† Edward answered. â€Å"They're all dying to see the inside of the reclusive Cullens' mystery house.† â€Å"Fabulous,† I moaned. There wasn't anything I could do to help. I doubted that – even after I didn't need sleep and moved at a much faster speed – I would ever be able to get things done the way Alice did. Edward refused to let me go for a second, dragging me along with him as he hunted up Jasper and then Carlisle to tell them of my epiphany. I listened with quiet horror as they discussed their attack on the army in Seattle. I could tell that Jasper was not pleased with the way the numbers stood, but they'd been unable to contact anyone besides Tanya's unwilling family. Jasper didn't try to hide his desperation the way Edward would have. It was easy to see that he didn't like gambling with stakes this high. I couldn't stay behind, waiting and hoping for them to come home. I wouldn't. I would go mad. The doorbell rang. All at once, everything was surreally normal. A perfect smile, genuine and warm, replaced the stress on Carlisle's face. Alice turned the volume of the music up, and then danced to get the door. It was a Suburban-load of my friends, either too nervous or too intimidated to arrive on their own. Jessica was the first one in the door, with Mike right behind her. Tyler, Conner, Austin, Lee, Samantha . . . even Lauren trailing in last, her critical eyes alight with curiosity. They all were curious, and then overwhelmed as they took in the huge room decked out like a chic rave. The room wasn't empty; all the Cullens had taken their places, ready to put on their usual perfect human charade. Tonight I felt like I was acting every bit as much as they were. I went to greet Jess and Mike, hoping the edge inmy voice sounded like the right kind of excitement. Before I could get to anyone else, the bell rang again. I let Angela and Ben in, leaving the door wide, because Eric and Katie were just reaching the steps. I didn't get another chance to panic. I had to talk to everyone, concentrate on being upbeat, a hostess. Though the party had been billed as a joint event for Alice, Edward, and me, there was no denying that I was the most popular target for congratulations and thanks. Maybe because the Cullens looked just slightly wrong under Alice's party lights. Maybe because those lights left the room dim and mysterious. Not an atmosphere to make your average human feel relaxed when standing next to someone like Emmett. I saw Emmett grin at Mike over the food table, the red lights gleaming off his teeth, and watched Mike take an automatic step back. Probably Alice had done this on purpose, to force me into the center of attention – a place she thought I should enjoy more. She was forever trying to make me be human the way she thought humans should be. The party was a clear success, despite the instinctive edginess cause by the Cullens' presence – or maybe that simply added a thrill to the atmosphere. The music was infectious, the lights almost hypnotic. From the way the food disappeared, that must have been good, too. The room was soon crowded, though never claustrophobic. The entire senior class seemed to be there, along with most of the juniors. Bodies swayed to the beat that rumbled under the soles of their feet, the party constantly on the edge of breaking into a dance. It wasn't as hard as I'd thought it would be. I followed Alice's lead, mingling and chatting for a minute with everyone. They seemed easy enough to please. I was sure this party was far cooler than anything the town of Forks had experienced before. Alice was almost purring – no one here would forget this night. I'd circled the room once, and was back to Jessica. She babbled excitedly, and it was not necessary to pay strict attention, because the odds were she wouldn't need a response from me anytime soon. Edward was at my side – still refusing to let go of me. He kept one hand securely at my waist, pulling me closer now and then in response to thoughts I probably didn't want to hear. So I was immediately suspicious when he dropped his arm and edged away from me. â€Å"Stay here,† he murmured in my ear. â€Å"I'll be right back.† He passed gracefully through the crowd without seeming to touch any of the close-packed bodies, gone too quickly for me to ask why he was leaving. I stared after him with narrowed eyes while Jessica shouted over the music eagerly, hanging on to my elbow, oblivious to my distraction. I watched him as he reached the dark shadow beside the kitchen doorway, where the lights only shone intermittently. He was leaning over someone, but I couldn't see past all the heads between us. I stretched up on my toes, craning my neck. Right then, a red light flashed across his back and glinted off the red sequins of Alice's shirt. The light only touched her face for half a second, but it was enough. â€Å"Excuse me for a minute, Jess,† I mumbled, pulling my arm away. I didn't pause for her reaction, even to see if I'd hurt her feelings with my abruptness. I ducked my way through the bodies, getting shoved around a bit. A few people were dancing now. I hurried to the kitchen door. Edward was gone, but Alice was still there in the dark, her face blank – the kind of expressionless look you see on the face of someone who has just witnessed a horrible accident. One of her hands gripped the door frame, like she needed the support. â€Å"What, Alice, what? What did you see?† My hands were clutched in front of me – begging. She didn't look at me, she was staring away. I followed her gaze and watched as she caught Edward's eye across the room. His face was empty as a stone. He turned and disappeared into the shadows under the stair. The doorbell rang just then, hours after the last time, and Alice looked up with a puzzled expression that quickly turned into one of disgust. â€Å"Who invited the werewolf?† she griped at me. I scowled. â€Å"Guilty.† I'd thought I'd rescinded that invitation – not that I'd ever dreamed Jacob would come here, regardless. â€Å"Well, you go take care of it, then. I have to talk to Carlisle.† â€Å"No, Alice, wait!† I tried to reach for her arm, but she was gone and my hand clutched the empty air. â€Å"Damn it!† I grumbled. I knew this was it. Alice had seen what she'd been waiting for, and I honestly didn't feel I could stand the suspense long enough to answer the door. The doorbell peeled again, too long, someone holding down the button. I turned my back toward the door resolutely, and scanned the darkened room for Alice. I couldn't see anything. I started pushing for the stairs. â€Å"Hey, Bella!† Jacob's deep voice caught a lull in the music, and I looked up in spite of myself at the sound of my name. I made a face. It wasn't just one werewolf, it was three. Jacob had let himself in, flanked on either side by Quil and Embry. The two of them looked terribly tense, their eyes flickering around the room like they'd just walked into a haunted crypt. Embry's trembling hand still held the door, his body half-turned to run for it. Jacob was waving at me, calmer than the others, though his nose was wrinkled in disgust. I waved back – waved goodbye – and turned to look for Alice. I squeezed through a space between Conner's and Lauren's backs. He came out of nowhere, his hand on my shoulder pulling me back toward the shadow by the kitchen. I ducked under his grip, but he grabbed my good wrist and yanked me from the crowd. â€Å"Friendly reception,† he noted. I pulled my hand free and scowled at him. â€Å"What are you doing here?† â€Å"You invited me, remember?† â€Å"In case my right hook was too subtle for you, let me translate: that was me uninvitingyou.† â€Å"Don't be a poor sport. I brought you a graduation present and everything.† I folded my arms across my chest. I didn't want to fightwith Jacob right now. I wanted to know what Alice had seen and what Edward and Carlisle were saying about it. I craned my head around Jacob, searching for them. â€Å"Take it back to the store, Jake. I've got to do something. . . .† He stepped into my line of sight, demanding my attention. â€Å"I can't take it back. I didn't get it from the store – I made it myself. Took a really long time, too.† I leaned around him again, but I couldn't see any of the Cullens. Where had they gone? My eyes scanned the darkened room. â€Å"Oh, c'mon, Bell. Don't pretend like I'm not here!† â€Å"I'm not.† I couldn't see them anywhere. â€Å"Look, Jake, I've got a lot on my mind right now.† He put his hand under my chin and pulled my face up. â€Å"Could I please have just a few seconds of your undivided attention, Miss Swan?† I jerked away from his touch. â€Å"Keep your hands to yourself, Jacob,† I hissed. â€Å"Sorry!† he said at once, holding his hands up in surrender. â€Å"I really am sorry. About the other day, I mean, too. I shouldn't have kissed you like that. It was wrong. I guess . . . well, I guess I deluded myself into thinking you wanted me to.† â€Å"Deluded – what a perfect description!† â€Å"Be nice. You could accept my apology, you know.† â€Å"Fine. Apology accepted. Now, if you'll just excuse me for a moment . . .† â€Å"Okay,† he mumbled, and his voice was so different from before that I stoppd searching for Alice and scrutinized his face. He was staring at the floor, hiding his eyes. His lower lip jutted out just a little bit. â€Å"I guess you'd rather be with your real friends,† he said in the same defeated tone. â€Å"I get it.† I groaned. â€Å"Aw, Jake, you know that's not fair.† â€Å"Do I?† â€Å"You should.† I leaned forward, peering up, trying to look into his eyes. He looked up then, over my head, avoiding my gaze. â€Å"Jake?† He refused to look at me. â€Å"Hey, you said you made me something, right?† I asked. â€Å"Was that just talk? Where's my present?† My attempt to fake enthusiasm was pretty sad, but it worked. He rolled his eyes and then grimaced at me. I kept up the lame pretense, holding my hand open in front of me. â€Å"I'm waiting.† â€Å"Right,† he grumbled sarcastically. But he also reached into the back pocket of his jeans and pulled out a small bag of a loose-woven, multi-colored fabric. It was tied shut with leather drawstrings. He set it on my palm. â€Å"Hey, that's pretty, Jake. Thanks!† He sighed. â€Å"The present is inside, Bella.† â€Å"Oh.† I had some trouble with the strings. He sighed again and took it from me, sliding the ties open with one easy tug of the right cord. I held my hand out for it, but he turned the bag upside down and shook something silver into my hand. Metal links clinked quietly against each other. â€Å"I didn't make the bracelet,† he admitted. â€Å"Just the charm.† Fastened to one of the links of the silver bracelet was a tiny wooden carving. I held it between my fingers to look at it closer. It was amazing the amount of detail involved in the little figurine – the miniature wolf was utterly realistic. It was even carved out of some red-brown wood that matched the color of his skin. â€Å"It's beautiful,† I whispered. â€Å"You made this? How?† He shrugged. â€Å"It's something Billy taught me. He's better at it than I am.† â€Å"That's hard to believe,† I murmured, turning the tiny wolf around and around in my fingers. â€Å"Do you really like it?† â€Å"Yes! It's unbelievable, Jake.† He smiled, happily at first, but then the expression soured. â€Å"Well, I figured that maybe it would make you remember me once in a while. You know how it is, out of sight, out of mind.† I ignored the attitude. â€Å"Here, help me put it on.† I held out my left wrist, since the right was stuck in the brace. He fastened the catch easily, though it looked too delicate for his big fingers to manage. â€Å"You'll wear it?† he asked. â€Å"Of course I will.† He grinned at me – it was the happy smile that I loved to see him wear. I returned it for a moment, but then my eyes shot reflexively around the room again, anxiously scanning the crowd for some sign of Edward or Alice. â€Å"Why're you so distracted?† Jacob wondered. â€Å"It's nothing,† I lied, trying to concentrate. â€Å"Thanks for the present, really. I love it.† â€Å"Bella?† His brows pulled together, throwing his eyes deep into their shadow. â€Å"Something's going on, isn't it?† â€Å"Jake, I . . . no, there's nothing.† â€Å"Don't lie to me, you suck at lying. You should tell me what's going on. We want to know these things,† he said, slipping into the plural at the end. He was probably right; the wolves would certainly be interested in what was happening. Only I wasn't sure what that was yet. I wouldn't know for sure until I found Alice. â€Å"Jacob, I will tell you. Just let me figure out what's happening, okay? I need to talk to Alice.† Understanding lit his expression. â€Å"The psychic saw something.† â€Å"Yes, just when you showed up.† â€Å"Is this about the bloodsucker in your room?† he murmured, pitching his voice below the thrum of the music. â€Å"It's related,† I admitted. He processed that for a minute, leaning his head to one side while he read my face. â€Å"You know something you're not telling me . . . something big.† What was the point in lying again? He knew me too well. â€Å"Yes.† Jacob stared at me for one short moment, and then turned to catch his pack brothers' eyes where they stood in the entry, awkward and uncomfortable. When they took in his expression, they started moving, weaving their way agilely through the partiers, almost like they were dancing, too. In half a minute, they stood on either side of Jacob, towering over me. â€Å"Now. Explain,† Jacob demanded. Embry and Quil looked back and forth between our faces, confused and wary. â€Å"Jacob, I don't know everything.† I kept searching the room, now for a rescue. They had me backed into a corner in every sense. â€Å"What you do know, then.† They all folded their arms across their chests at exactly the same moment. It was a little bit funny, but mostly menacing. And then I caught sight of Alice descending the stairs, her white skin glowing in the purple light. â€Å"Alice!† I squeaked in relief. She looked right at me as soon as I called her name, despite the thudding bass that should have drowned my voice. I waved eagerly, and watched her face as she took in the three werewolves leaning over me. Her eyes narrowed. But, before that reaction, her face was full of stress and fear. I bit my lip as she skipped to my side. Jacob, Quil, and Embry all leaned away from her with uneasy expressions. She put her arm around my waist. â€Å"I need to talk to you,† she murmured into my ear. â€Å"Er, Jake, I'll see you later . . . ,† I mumbled as we eased around them. Jacob threw his long arm out to block our way, bracing his hand against the wall. â€Å"Hey, not so fast.† Alice stared up at him, eyes wide and incredulous. â€Å"Excuse me?† â€Å"Tell us what's going on,† he demanded in a growl. Jasper appeared quite literally out of nowhere. One second it was just Alice and me against the wall, Jacob blocking our exit, and then Jasper was standing on the other side of Jake's arm, his expression terrifying. Jacob slowly pulled his arm back. It seemed like the best move, going with the assumption that he wanted to keep that arm. â€Å"We have a right to know,† Jacob muttered, still glaring at Alice. Jasper stepped in between them, and the three werewolves braced themselves. â€Å"Hey, hey,† I said, adding a slightly hysterical chuckle. â€Å"This is a party, remember?† Nobody paid any attention to me. Jacob glared at Alice while Jasper glowered at Jacob. Alice's face was suddenly thoughtful. â€Å"It's okay, Jasper. He actually has a point.† Jasper did not relax his position. I was sure the suspense was going to make my head explode in about one second. â€Å"What did you see, Alice?† She stared at Jacob for one second, and then turned to me, evidently having chosen to let them hear. â€Å"The decision's been made.† â€Å"You're going to Seattle?† â€Å"No.† I felt the color drain out of my face. My stomach lurched. â€Å"They're coming here,† I choked out. The Quileute boys watched silently, reading every unconscious play of emotion on our faces. They were rooted in place, and yet not completely still. All three pairs of hands were trembling. â€Å"Yes.† â€Å"To Forks,† I whispered. â€Å"Yes.† â€Å"For?† She nodded, understanding my question. â€Å"One carried your red shirt.† I tried to swallow. Jasper's expression was disapproving. I could tell he didn't like discussing this in front of the werewolves, but he had something he needed to say. â€Å"We can't let them come that far. There aren't enough of us to protect the town.† â€Å"I know,† Alice said, her face suddenly desolate. â€Å"But it doesn't matter where we stop them. There still won't be enough of us, and some of them will come here to search.† â€Å"No!† I whispered. The noise of the party overwhelmed the sound of my denial. All around us, my friends and neighbors and petty enemies ate and laughed and swayed to the music, oblivious to the fact that they were about to face horror, danger, maybe death. Because of me. â€Å"Alice,† I mouthed her name. â€Å"I have to go, I have to get away from here.† â€Å"That won't help. It's not like we're dealing with a tracker. They'll still come looking here first.† â€Å"Then I have to go to meet them!† If my voice hadn't been so hoarse and strained, it might have been a shriek. â€Å"If they find what they're looking for, maybe they'll go away and not hurt anyone else!† â€Å"Bella!† Alice protested. â€Å"Hold it,† Jacob ordered in a low, forceful voice. â€Å"What is coming?† Alice turned her icy gaze on him. â€Å"Our kind. Lots of them.† â€Å"Why?† â€Å"For Bella. That's all we know.† â€Å"There are too many for you?† he asked. Jasper bridled. â€Å"We have a few advantages, dog. It will be an even fight.† â€Å"No,† Jacob said, and a strange, fierce half-smile spread across his face. â€Å"It won't be even.† â€Å"Excellent!† Alice hissed. I stared, still frozen in horror, at Alice's new expression. Her face was alive with exultation, all the despair wiped clean from her perfect features. She grinned at Jacob, and he grinned back. â€Å"Everything just disappeared, of course,† she told him in a smug voice. â€Å"That's inconvenient, but, all things considered, I'll take it.† â€Å"We'll have to coordinate,† Jacob said. â€Å"It won't be easy for us. Still, this is our job more than yours.† â€Å"I wouldn't go that far, but we need the help. We aren't going to be picky.† â€Å"Wait, wait, wait, wait,† I interrupted them. Alice was on her toes, Jacob leaning down toward her, both of their faces lit up with excitement, both of their noses wrinkled against the smell. They looked at me impatiently. â€Å"Coordinate?† I repeated through my teeth. â€Å"You didn't honestly think you were going to keep us out of this?† Jacob asked. â€Å"You are staying out of this!† â€Å"Your psychic doesn't think so.† â€Å"Alice – tell them no!† I insisted. â€Å"They'll get killed!† Jacob, Quil, and Embry all laughed out loud. â€Å"Bella,† Alice said, her voice soothing, placating, â€Å"separately we all could get killed. Together -â€Å" â€Å"It'll be no problem,† Jacob finished her sentence. Quil laughed again. â€Å"How many?† Quil asked eagerly. â€Å"No!† I shouted. Alice didn't even look at me. â€Å"It changes – twenty-one today, but the numbers are going down.† â€Å"Why?† Jacob asked, curious. â€Å"Long story,† Alice said, suddenly looking around the room. â€Å"And this isn't the place for it.† â€Å"Later tonight?† Jacob pushed. â€Å"Yes,† Jasper answered him. â€Å"We were already planning a . . . strategic meeting. If you're going to fight with us, you'll need some instruction.† The wolves all made a disgruntled face at the last part. â€Å"No!† I moaned. â€Å"This will be odd,† Jasper said thoughtfully. â€Å"I never considered working together. This has to be a first.† â€Å"No doubt about that,† Jacob agreed. He was in a hurry now. â€Å"We've got to get back to Sam. What time?† â€Å"What's too late for you?† All three rolled their eyes. â€Å"What time?† Jacob repeated. â€Å"Three o'clock?† â€Å"Where?† â€Å"About ten miles due north of the Hoh Forest ranger station. Come at it from the west and you'll be able to follow our scent in.† â€Å"We'll be there.† They turned to leave. â€Å"Wait, Jake!† I called after him. â€Å"Please! Don't do this!† He paused, turning back to grin at me, while Quil and Embry headed impatiently for the door. â€Å"Don't be ridiculous, Bells. You're giving me a much better gift than the one I gave you.† â€Å"No!† I shouted again. The sound of an electric guitar drowned my cry. He didn't respond; he hurried to catch up with his friends, who were already gone. I watched helplessly as Jacob disappeared.