Differentiated Teaching

Educators have always had a role of finding ways to improve their ability to provide education and learning among students. With the increasing challenges and hurdles in today’s 21st century education, teachers must remain vibrant in looking for alternatives and methods that will shape and nurture students ability to decipher information, acquire new skills and develop holistically within the classroom. As I was able to watch the movie, I learned many important insights and values towards teaching.In here, the film captured the essence of differential learning as I came across various principles that helped me gain ideas surrounding its purpose and relevance within the classroom setup. It helped me develop awareness of different methods and strategies that may be deemed applicable towards my case and other educators as well. It is by comprehending these facets that one is able to maximize the capabilities of each process and sustain the level of commitment on both parties.Reac ting from this, I feel that to be able to raise these standards of accountability and responsibility among educators, there needs to be a collaborative effort among each other. This means that cooperation and information sharing is a vital component as it outlines both the positive impact and implications for pursuing a relative scheme or goal. Likewise, such understanding enables the formation of parameters for strength and skills building that are necessary to be competent in a particular area or subject.The next part involves active planning for screening students according to their preferences and strengths. Under this process, educators devise their own rubrics and goals that actively align with both their goals and sustain the parameters of facilitating outcomes that is rooted on performance and ability of each student to harness and decipher information. In the end, such process enables active involvement on the part of student and increases their capability to become profici ent in the particular class.Associated with this initiative revolves around the concept of comprehending the idea of a child’s multiple intelligence capabilities. As the film presented the view of Howard Gardener, it gave us the impression of focusing on strengths and justifying areas wherein we can develop our weaknesses in both planning and facilitation of teaching objectives. Using various variables to denote such competencies, it can help intensify avenues towards flexibility and allows them to facilitate such objective using group dynamics and interplay.To signify the strength of this example, the movie showed dividing the group into several sections to intensify the approach of gaining confidence in their areas of expertise. Allowing this area to be considered, the educator was able to diversify the needs of students and actively address their own level of learning. This idea together with some supplementary materials, it can help adequately facilitate the ability of te achers to transcend over student needs using several methods and approaches. Such facet has been the primary aim of differential learning and has harnessed my ability as an educator to gain new skills in the process.To conclude, the film was essential in opening up awareness on my part as a teacher. It introduced me to several strategies and methods that can enhance the ability to reach out and gain competence in fostering compliance and cooperation among students. By focusing on the main tenets and facets of this theory, I as an educator can manage new ideas and use the necessary tools to develop new ways of improving classroom teaching. Such process gives me the ability to address the increasing needs of students especially in today’s 21st century education.

American Bureaucracy

Bureaucracy is a form of administration wherein the government is divided into bureaus or different departments which are headed by non-elected officials. This administration is characterized by a highly hierarchal distribution of authority amongst the offices and is guided by rigidly fixed procedures and rules.Max Weber listed characteristics of modern bureaucracies: (1) the functions of the bodies are rigidly fixed by laws; (2) hierarchal and integrated into a chain of command; (3) administrative policies are properly documented; (4) services require apprenticeship; (5) functions entail full devotion to office; and (6) access to this system is also an access to technology, jurisprudence commercial science and administrative science.The development of the American Bureaucracy is an end result of the division of classes into societies, wherein in the function serves to secure the acceptance of such orders. Thus, according to Lefort, bureaucracy is normally viewed as service of a domi nant class within a specific framework to assure preservation of status for most for the dominant class. Moreover, American bureaucracy is seen to have several negative implications on its government form. Citizens are often concerned on the manner at which principles are being attached to certain issues.It is argued that at most times, people face the imminent danger of being placed at a stand wherein the public good is disregarded due to conflicts from rival parties, and that when the rule of justice and rights of minor party have become overpowered by the force of interested and overbearing majority (Madison, 1787). Thus, it is often said that American bureaucracy has encouraged the splitting of administration into factions, which in turn is an effect of unsteadiness and injustices within the system.These injustices are brought by the government’s influential impact on making judgment towards property sentiments, which at large differ based on the social class – whe rein the inequality to acquire property is possible to equate based on social standing (Madison, 1787). Consequently, the manner of representation in the republic is also in question. The process at which a representative or representatives are elected is based on a certain limited number.Hence it will follow that proportionality of the election of officers for certain republic may render them the greater or lesser probability of representation for the emancipation of the republic that they represent (Madison, 1787). On the other hand, there are also positive views attributed in the establishment of American bureaucracy. The establishment of bureaucracy in US has pushed separate departments to become independent and to act according to their own will.This shall also follow that the members of this department will develop their own sense of authority and responsibility over their areas. But nonetheless, the idea of independence for the established departments has remained untrue so f ar. The independence they posses is only minimal and nominal, because the appointments that are taking place within the system and the process by which orders are done, come strictly from the rigidness of orders from higher authorities.Another thing, this kind of system is highly susceptible to biases and administration corruption, since the appointments made are delivered by higher officials and consequently the works to be done should ought to be addressed to the authority who conferred it to them (Madison 1788). Though the distribution of power amongst these departments is done in such a way that each department serves as checks and balance for the other departments, it still occurs that this distribution of authority, instead of being vigilant to the interest of the public, has rather became a cover up for private interest.And this rhetoric of division of powers which aims to distribute powers equally among different departments couldn’t be in any way possible because it is convenient and not rational to create an equal distribution of power to defend each of their own departments. However, the constitution for the American bureaucracy claims two distinct responsibilities that render this kind of administration rational and beneficial to the society. First, in contrast to bureaucracy, a single republic owes concentration of powers towards one entity, which shall serve as the lone guard against power abuse.On the other hand, in a bureaucratic state, the power is divided between two bodies, thus creating a double security against usurpation of powers by officials. Second, this division makes the interests of the republic more guarded in such a way that the first division guards the society against oppression that may be caused by the other division. Therefore, the two separate departments of the government serve as checks and balance between them (Madison 1788). Thus, bureaucracy does not necessarily entail influence on political and economic regime.N either that its organization has relation to power, rather, bureaucracy administers itself by splitting its powers into divergence (Lefort, 2007) Moreover, the current trend of American bureaucracy is being put into test. The organization of new departments has sprung from the current US government administration, all geared towards increasing their security, customs, immigration and emergency management. According to reports, this reorganization in the US government shall become the most ambitious US reorganization since 1947.The formation of the new Department of Homeland Security shall ideally and constitutionally become the guardian of Americans against terrorist attacks, immigration advocates, and business lobbyists. However, this shall also post a great challenge on coping from the changes that it will allow. The problem shall be rooted on the dilemma of balancing old and new traditions in such a way that this will not disrupt the functions that it is ought to serve for the go vernment and the society (Alden, 2002).Bureaucracy has served its purpose in the American government. Though it varies widely between the positive and the negative feedbacks that it has encountered over its practice, bureaucracy has indeed become an institution in the American government administration. Further, it has its process closely tied to the process of capitalist rationalization. It forms a type of social organization and establishes social strata and dictates a relationship among its members. References Alden, Edward. (22 November 2002) A Battle of American Bureaucracy.Financial Times. Retrieved November 15, 2007, from http://www. globalsecurity. org/org/news/2002/021122-secure01. htm Lefort, Claude. What is Bureaucracy? Retrieved November 15, 2007, from http://www. generation-online. org/h/fplefort. htm Madison, James. (1787 November 22) The Utility of the Union as a Safeguard Against Domestic Faction and Insurrection. Daily Advertiser. Madison, James. (1788 February 6) T he Structure of the Government Must Furnish the Proper Checks and Balances Between the Different Departments. Independent Journal.

Biogenta plc and Outback Inc Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3250 words

Biogenta plc and Outback Inc - Essay Example onalities are calm, relaxed and secure; agreeable individuals are cooperative, tolerant, trusting; conscientiousness persons are dependable, responsible, achievers while openness includes intelligence and creativity among others. The management can thus assess individuals and classify them based on these traits and offer them varied experiences to elicit productivity and good performance. For example, conscientious individuals can be given leadership roles since they are responsible and dependable while those who portray openness can be entrusted with projects due to their creativity. The problem with trait theories is that they are unable to explain individual differences in personality. Another problem is that an individual may not behave in a similar manner in a different situation thus personality assessment during recruitment or selection based on traits may be unreliable. The person may not be able to produce results when placed in a different situation hence the theory is not a good predictor of behaviour (Ewen, 2003). The behavioural theorists emphasize the interaction of individuals and the environment. Theorists like Skinner and Watson believe behaviour is learnt through operant and classical conditioning (Ewen, 2003).The stimulus in the environment forces individuals to act in certain ways and behaviour is reinforced through rewards or discouraged through punishment. They believe that people are born empty and gain personality through a processes of association (Engler, 2009). The management can thus change people’s personality by providing them with a proper working environment and by reinforcing behaviour through reward system. The management has to decide the kind of behaviour required in the organization and reinforce it. The psychoanalytic theory by... This research is the best example of comparison of Biogenta plc and Outback Inc. Biogenta plc is a multinational company with manufacturing facilities in over 10 countries and a span of 15, 000 employees in over 80 countries. It is a world leading business dealing with crop protection products such as herbicides, fungicides and insecticides. Its mission is to be the most trusted provider of crop-protection products in the world and has a set of values embedded in its culture to foster performance. It encourages diversity and corporate social responsibility and has innovation as its strength. Outback Inc on the other hand, is a family managed organization operating in Sydney, Australia. It is an adventure based tour company established in 1990s and has grown from a small size to moderately sized company offering a variety of services such as guided tours, accommodation and meals. The company has no clear vision or strategy to guide its actions and depends on Japanese clients. A lot of problems such as declining profits, high turnover and loss of clients are being experienced in the company due to poor management and organizational culture. Both organizations operate in a turbulent environment but Biogenta operates in several countries hence it may be affected more by diverse cultures. Outback has also to deal with individuals from different cultural backgrounds in its service provision but mostly deals with Japanese nationals and does not have to deal with complex management issues associated with international human resource management.

Transnational Segmentation - the Way Forward Essay

Transnational Segmentation - the Way Forward - Essay Example There can be shifts within the industry which alter the marketing strategies. These, in turn, would alter the segmentation process, the targeting of the market and the product positioning. There are various strategies being used by firms wanting to expand overseas. A global strategy treats the world as a single market whereas localized approach takes into account the local opportunities in forming the strategy. Base on the various literature available, it would be determined that transnational segmentation is not the way forward for firms wanting to expand overseas. A standardized approach can be adopted but each market segment would need a standardized strategy and cater to different market segments there can be several global strategies. Besides, the same standardized approach cannot be applicable for all types of goods and in all types of markets. The optimal marketing strategy would be to take into account targeting and positioning across international boundaries. To derive benefits, firms have been showing interest in global marketing which implies an integrated and global marketing approach (Guerini, 2006). To survive in the face of price wars, competition, and high-quality product/services, they are looking for something radical that could transform the way business could be done. Marketers have been debating whether to pursue a global versus a localized approach to international marketing. Traditional orientations of marketing are being replaced by transnational market similarities. This paper builds on the view that firms are trying to segment the countries according to similar characteristics but marketers realize that to be successful in international market local adaptation is necessary.

Past experience with inter-enterprise information system Essay

Past experience with inter-enterprise information system - Essay Example More specifically, the experience with computers has allowed me to have ability to use both application and system software for computational activities. The various hardware with which my experience was involved includes computer CPU, monitor, keyboard, mouse, printer and scanner which comprise the input and output devices of a computer. In addition, I was able to learn the various components of a CPU and their functions. More importantly, though, is the ability to use applications such as word processing and spreadsheets to execute different computational processes. My experience with computers also made me more appreciative of the value that these systems have added in facilitating communication among individuals, departments, organizations and institutions. More importantly, during my experience I have appreciated the Internet as a computational communication tool which has connected individuals and organizations across the world. This is a reflection of the important contributio n of computers to the globalization process. In my experience with information systems, I was able to understand the system theory as it applies in computation and business processes. Additionally I now understand the correlation among the various components of information systems in performing a holistic function. The hardware and software components of an information system allowed me to improve my computer skills. I was also able to apply software to solve problems. This experience significantly improved my critical thinking abilities. Furthermore, the experience with information systems accorded me the ability to process data through computer application and extract meaning out of the data. This means that I am able to develop relevant and meaningful information out of data through the use of computer applications such as SPSS and Microsoft Excel. It is through my experience that I am more appreciative of the importance of information systems in organizations such as facilitatin g communication, business activities and decision making. Moreover, I now understand information systems as a network of computers which would be connected worldwide through the Internet. I have attained knowledge and skills on the application of both intra-enterprise and inter-enterprise information systems. In addition, I have achieved an understanding of how these information systems have been used to facilitate business or organizational processes. The knowledge that I have on these systems is significantly important for my short-term and longtime career plans. For example, this knowledge has prepared me to apply information systems within my work place. This involves the use of intra-enterprise computer systems such as local area network in facilitating communication within the organization. Additionally, the use of inter-enterprise information systems such as wide area networks and the Internet to promote communication among subsidiaries of an organization and sectors of its s upply chain is well understood by me. I have sufficient knowledge on the issue of security in the use of intra-enterprise and inter-enterprise information systems, which will allow me to ensure that these systems are secured when I will use them within my workplace. Additionally, I understand the use of intra-

EU Competition law and Cartels Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

EU Competition law and Cartels - Essay Example In the final outcome, Procter and Gamble and Unilever paid a reduced fine of EUR 315 200 000 while Henkel benefitted from immunity as the whistleblower. The Treaty of Lisbon prohibits anti-competitive practices under Article 101 (1) including any agreements relating to price-fixing. However, Article 103 (3) provides for exemptions if the market collusion is intended for technological innovation and distribution or when the agreement results to consumers’ a â€Å"fair share† of benefits or when the agreement does not risk elimination of competition in anyway1. Article 102 prohibits the dominant players from abusing their market power and strengths from exclusive dealing and discrimination in trade. The main purpose of cartels is to regulate the production, distributing and pricing of goods and services thus hindering free competition in the industry. Control of collusion and anti-competitive practices are governed by Article 101of the Treaty on the Functioning of the Eur opean Union (TFEU) while monopolies are regulated by Article 102 of the same Treaty2. Mergers, joint ventures and acquisitions are involving companies with substantial turnover in the EU are regulated by Council Regulation 139/2004 EC also refereed as the Merger Regulation. Any financial aid to companies provided by any Member State whether direct or indirect is governed by Article 107 of the TFEU. The conduct of the cartel infringed Article 101 of the TFEU and Article 53 of the EEA agreement. The conduct involved single and continuous infringement of the Heavy duty laundry detergent powder market in the above six member states3. The infringement was aimed at market position stabilization and coordination of the selling prices. The decision to investigate and inspect the premises of the above three companies was prompted by whistle blowing and subsequent application for immunity by Henkel in June 2008. Reduction under the leniency Notice (%) Reduction under the settlement notice Fin e (EUR) Henkel 100% N/A 0 Procter & Gamble 50% 10% 211 200 000 Unilever 25% 10% 104 000 000 Henkel received total immunity since it informed the European Commission of the existence of the Cartel. The settlement procedure is guided by the Antitrust Regulation 1/2003 that grants the commission to use simplified procedure in the settlement in order to avoid lengthy investigations. The leniency policy is aimed at abstaining from prosecuting firms that inform the Commission of the existence of the cartel. Settlement is an efficiency process while Leniency is intended at gathering evidence of the infringement. Commission Regulation 773/2004 deals with the powers of the commissions, the complaints, rights and access to file. The regulation deals with the Leniency Notice 2006, guidelines for fines and the notice for co-operation with authorities4. The settlement policy requires an admission of guilt from the companies involved and requires the parties to immediately desist from the anti-co mpetitive behaviour. The settlement procedure is only applicable to cartel cases. The settlement Notice rewards the parties for cooperation in the process. All parties benefit from a 10 percent reduction in fines since they contribute adequately to the settlement procedure5. In the above case, Henkel submitted immunity application in May 2008 and was granted conditional immunity in June 2008. According to Article 11 (6) of Regulation (EC) 1/2003, all the parties were invited to the bilateral settlement discussions in 2009. The parties were granted the files with evidence and an estimation of the possible fines during the discussions in June 2010. According to Article 10 (a) of Regulation (E

To what extent should changes in the relationship between monarchy and Essay

To what extent should changes in the relationship between monarchy and parliament from 1529 to 1640 be seen as arising from divisions over the future of the chu - Essay Example But it was the Crown’s longer term financial problems, exacerbated by wars, in some cases were linked to religious tensions that caused parliament long term changes in crown-parliament relation. Comparing the role of parliament before the Tudor Revolution in 1530s and after the Long Parliament in 1640, it stayed the same in general, and yet, significant changes had occurred, providing Parliament with greater power and more functions. Even after the Bishops’ Wars the power of Monarch remained unequalled and Parliament’s jurisdiction was limited mainly to aiding and advising the Crown. Still, as the Parliament evolved, its influence was extended to more and more aspects of the domestic policy. The 1530s are considered by G.R. Elton1 as a key decade in the constitutional history of Britain. Beforehand, late 15th century parliaments were occasions where the King could meet with the elites to discuss their own personal interests, but the Monarch decided when parliament should meet and it gave advice on polices only if advice was rejected. Parliament’s main functions were related to taxation, legislation, and judicial powers. The Monarch could not tax without Parliament’s consent and had to follow the laws of the realm. The King and Parliament together acted as a legislative body which made the laws of the kingdom, and parliament acted as an advisor for the king in terms of policies, though the King selected which issues he asked advice about. The House of Lords was the highest court in the kingdom, and acted as a court of law, while parliament also provided a national forum for discussing local and national grievances. Thus, Parliament acted as a representative body which G.R Elton said provided a ‘point of contact’ between the King and his subjects because it gave a chance for the King to listen to his subjects grievances. However, Parliament essentially represented the landed and urban elites, King, Lords and Commons governed in their mutual

Disaster Relief Assessment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Disaster Relief Assessment - Essay Example Natural disasters include earthquakes, floods, volcanic activities, tornadoes, cyclones, typhoons and severe storms. There should be the proper planning of the goals and the communication facility must be improved greatly. Proper task forces should always be ready who can tackle the situation in their own innovative way. Steps should be taken so that there can be proper thought about the situation by which it will be much easier to represent things that can be done. Theoretical approach can help to take a bigger step when the problem arises. The insurance and healthcare services should be improved so that the emergency situations can be responded effectively (Eisenman et. al. 2007). Disaster relief assessment also includes the development in the telecommunication facilities. The officials should be trained virtually so that they can be able to do things in a proper way and will have the ability to face all types of disasters. Educational programs can be undertaken so that the people can be alert about the various types of diseases and then they can take some minimum steps when they face such situations (Forgette, et. al., 2009).

Comparative Industrial Relations Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3500 words

Comparative Industrial Relations - Essay Example These three concepts actually signify the administration and handling of people. At times ‘industry’ is related to manufacturing only. However, the principle of Industrial relations is not so limited. The principle entails to enclose the associations amid managers and their employees in aspects of trade and industry activity. The main issue under consideration in the industrial relations is employment. Thus, industrial relations cover all the economic activities where a human resource works under the control of an employer and obtains a salary in exchange of his work. Consequently, industrial relations do not take into account domestic labour as well as self-employed individuals (Edward, n.d., p 1). Industrial relations play a vital role from the employers’ point of view. This is mainly because, in the present times, capital as well as technologies have become increasing obtainable for the companies. And hence, the competitive situation of a company relies on the knowledge and expertise of its human resources to a large extent. Furthermore, it should be noted that the human resources are distinct from any other form of resources. This is owing to the fact that human resources cannot be detached from the individuals in whom they are present. As a result, industrial relations are concerned with managing human resources in view of the productive goals of the business as well as the objectives of the workers (Edward, n.d., p 2). The point of view of industrial relation is fundamentally collective as well as pluralist. It involves the associations and dealings which take place at and out of the place of work. Thereby, it comprises of the relationships amid individual employees, the relationships amid the employees and their manager, the associations the companies and their employees have with the institutes created to support and safeguard their individual interests, in addition to the association-ship amongst those institutes among others. In ad dition, industrial relations takes account of the practices by means of which these associations and dealings are expressed, for instance collective bargaining; employee participation in decision-making; and settlement of complaints as well as disagreements. Furthermore, it also includes the handling of disagreements amongst managers, employees and trade unions, as and when it occurs. These associations as well as practices are subjective to the policies, regulations, and programmes formulated by the government and its agencies. Additionally, these practices are also influenced by the overall political, social, cultural, economic and technological attributes of each nation. Consequently, the industrial relation strategy and its framework in a particular nation are built up in the course of bipartite review procedures (to be precise between the company and its employee representatives, and by them, separately, with the government) as well as tripartite discussion and collaboration (c oncerning government and other social associates) (Macdonald, 1997, pp. 3-4). Components of Industrial Relations The employment relationship or industrial relationship consists of two segments, to be precise, managerial relations as well

Managing People Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Managing People - Term Paper Example Strategic human resource management should be adopted by the company in order to address the issues in its operations. The starting point of all the issue for any company is its relative strength in terms of strategic management—the clarity of the goals of the company in line with its mission and vision, in order to create good strategies in order to meet those goals. Without the goals and clear strategic direction, even those which are perceived to be the best human resource practices will mean nothing if they would not play a role in fulfilling a company’s objectives FTL’s lacks strategic direction as a company until Steve Davidson has started to craft a vision, as according to the case, â€Å"Steve had considered Anders management style to be too ‘seat of the pants’ and worked hard with his management team to create a vision for the business (Mason 2000, 11).† The company’s lack of strategic direction leads a cluttered approach to human resource management as evident in the policies which do not support any concrete corporate objective for the company. Because the company lacks strategic direction, an organizational structure is not tailored to support any strategy to fulfill a corporate objective. This leads to a corporate structure that often leads to conflicts, and one that does not utilise an integrated approach to the company’s operations. The shift of organizational structure from individualised jobs to work teams in order to promote a team working culture is vital in order to address the integration issues that arise from customer frustrations and lack of ownership. Structure plays a huge role in the organization’s processes, as stated in the case, â€Å"After the training had been completed there was a noticeable improvement in attitude between and within teams, although changes in staffing and team structures tended to undermine the benefits (Mason 2000, 14).† Communication is very vital to

The Day My Life Changed forever Essay Example for Free

The Day My Life Changed forever Essay I had been awaiting her arrival for a long 9 months. Saying I was over ridden with joy was an untruth I was afraid to bare, So I put on a smile and pretended that the arrival of my first child was going to be a good experience. Truth be told I knew my life was about to change forever and I wasnt sure I was going to be a good mother. All these doubts running through my mind was almost draining out the pain of the inconsistent contractions in my belly, my head started spinning a little with the what ifs and possibilities of failure heightened by the anticipation of my Daughters arrival. I felt so alone even though I was surrounded by my family, I knew better than anyone that this burden would be mine alone, to bare for a lifetime. It was October 4th 2006 about 6:30 pm when the first contraction started. I was at home and had just got done eating dinner. It was the beginning of evening, and the sky was still bright from the sunset behind the mountains. The skies were almost clear with just a few clouds overhead. The house was calm and quiet, unlike the storm brewing inside my mind. Carried away and consumed in my own thoughts and fears, I almost didnt even notice the pain from the first contraction. I kept on with the clean up from dinner ignoring what I feared for more than 9 months, but when the second one came, my fear and knowledge of what was to come nearly consumed me. I immediately ignored the contractions and decided for a brief moment that it was gas and I was just imagining things. I decided that I would continue my house work and see how long I could go without informing my [then] husband. So I started to organize and straighten things in the house all the while my mind was going 300 miles per hour. I was consumed with worry and guilt because I knew that the truth of the situation was I was not ready to be a mother. I wanted more from my life then to just be a mother and a wife. I wanted a career, education, and experience, before I had to hand it all over and give up my freedom. It was a little too late for that now my Daughter was coming weather I liked it or not. I knew the contractions were not yet consistent so I hoped maybe this was just the pre-labor pains I was experiencing, and they would eventually subside and go away. I couldnt have been more wrong. My husband arrived home that evening around 8:30 pm and was exhausted from a long days work. He had been working two jobs lately to support us and prepare for the arrival of our baby. He sat defeatingly on the couch as if life had consumed him all day and he couldnt take one more bit of disappointing news. He looked so tired I didnt want to inform him of the long night I knew was ahead of us. His hair was disheveled, his face looked long and tired and his eyes were sad and dark. I wondered if our baby would look like him, maybe she would get this thick curly hair, or his tanned brown skin. Maybe she would have those big sad eyes with long eyelashes, or his cute rounded nose. I hope she had his smile. That is what I fell in love with, and those big beautiful sad eyes. Then maybe loving her would come easier. As I looked at my husband sitting on the couch nodding off to sleep, I almost didnt want to wake him and be the bearer of bad news. Let him sleep I thought he has had a hard day. These pains were becoming so intense I couldnt ignore them for much longer so I decided to time them before I disturbed him. I looked at the time and it was 8:45 pm. Here comes another, I held my breath and counted to 10, and then the pained eased, then ceased. I looked at the time, oh NO, it was 8:47 and here came another one. One two three, breath. I can’t keep this up much longer I think its time to tell him. I walked over and sat next to him on the couch, he opened his eyes and before I could say a word he noticed the tears in my eyes. †Whats wrong he asked? † with a look of worry on his face. I knew once I opened my mouth the truth was going to scare him so I thought I’d choose my words wisely to have a more positive effect, but before I could say anything the pain was back, and this time I closed my eyes and groaned, as my belly tightened. One two three, breath. I opened my eyes and the look of fear on his face was only there for a moment, he quickly smiled with excitement and asked if it was time. I told him yes and that I had been timing the contractions for about 15 mins and they were getting stronger and more consistent. He decided that we were going to the hospital and I called my best friend for a ride. After that everything became very chaotic. I wasn’t sure which was making me sick the pains from the contractions or the thought of everything that could go wrong. I was about to meet my child and was overcome with fear. I wondered why I wasn’t overjoyed, like other women described with their anticipation. Instead the fear and pain was starting to eat me alive. This burden I could not share with anyone, for fear of judgement. I couldn’t tell my best friend that I truly didnt want to be a mother and that I was sick with the idea of the responsibility. How was I supposed to reveal that this child growing inside of me was more of a burden than a blessing. What women would understand my feelings without judging me, or thinking I am a selfish women. I knew none of them understood because this was my duty as a wife and a woman. I felt guilty for wanting a different life and for thinking of my unborn child as a burden. An innocent life was about to be my responsibility and I wasnt ready. I wanted to scream and run away, this fear was too much. When my best friend arrived she was excited and happy. She was pregnant too and due three months from now. She kept saying we would remember this experience for a lifetime and how glad she was to be here with me for the birth of my first child. Her and my husband talked and and seemed very happy while we got things together to go to the hospital. I couldnt understand why I wasnt excited like them or happy that I was about to meet my first child. Instead my mind was going in circles trying to make sense of it all. All the different possibilities of how things could go wrong was scaring me more then anything else. I couldnt imagine How I could be happy at a time like this. Finally we were getting in the car. I started trying to calm my thoughts and counter them with rational thoughts, As the pain came and went the fear inside my mind stayed consistent and started to grow stronger. I could feel every bump on the road as if it were a bat beating against my pelvic bone. By the time we got to the hospital I was starting to cry. I wasnt sure if it was from the pains or if my fear and emotions had gotten the best of me, but it scared my husband and best friend so they started hurrying me out of the car. The hospital admitted me right away and got me in a birthing room quickly. The room was big and impressive for a hospital. It was very comfortable, there was a pink couch that ran against an entire wall. There was three green chairs for my guests and all of them reclined. The walls were painted blue, and wall papered with a pink blue and green contemporary design. My husband was really impressed with the 47 inch flat screen television on the wall with all the cable channels a man could want. There was large wooden storage cabinets that looked like an entertainment center urrounding the large TV on the wall. I had my own private bathroom with a jacuzzi bathtub. My favorite part was the oversized window with the view of the city. It felt more like a hotel room rather than a hospital birthing room. As I undressed and lie on the bed I keep thinking this is all happening too fast and I just want my mom. So my best friend decided to go pick her up. the doctor came in and checked my cervix to see how far I was dilated and informed me that I wasn barely at 2 cm. She asked if my water had broke yet, and I told her no. She said they would monitor me for a while but if my water didnt break then they would have to send me home. So I began to walk hoping it would increase my contractions and allow my water to break. My mother arrived quickly and gave me a great deal of comfort and reassurance. She rubbed me on the back and held my hand as we walked while she recounted the birth of my brothers and I. She told me how proud she was of me and that everything was going to work out just fine. She said that I was going to make such a great mother and went on and on about how my daughter would change my life as I had changed hers. Of course this made me feel even worse about my own thoughts and yet I still couldnt understand why I was feeling so selfish and scared about becoming a mother. We walked for a while and then my feet grew tired so my mother thought we could try a warm bath. So we went back to my room and I got in the bath in my room . We had been there for hours already and nothing seemed to be happening, I began to get frustrated with the progress of this event I was exhausted and wanted this to be over with already. The Doctor came in and checked again to see if I had dilated any more and I seemed to be at a standstill. The Doctor decided to send me home because I wasnt dilating. So I went home I was angry and frustrated and just wanted this to be over with a already I wasnt sure I could bear this pain for much longer but I knew this was involuntary and I just had to deal with it the way it was. We got home around 12:30am and decided to try and get some sleep I was so restless from the pain that I couldnt find a comfortable position to sleep tossing and turning over and over again I thought I might go crazy. I finally found a comfortable position and nodded off to sleep. I was sleeping for maybe and hour when a sharp pain woke me from my sleep. This contraction was more intense than the others but I wasnt sure it was going to make a difference. I lie there in my bed awake and still wondering if the pain would return, and sure enough it did . One two Three breath, I counted out loud and this time I felt the pain in my back as well. I knew these pains were different, and as I considered waking my husband to tell him, I felt a gush of water coming from between my legs. I quickly woke my husband up and told him â€Å"My water just broke†. He jumped up and ran to get the phone. We both knew that this time it was real. He called his mom to come get us and I got up and got dressed. I noticed as I was cleaning myself up that the water was green and had a funny smell. When I realized the seriousness of that I called to my husband. Went he came into the room and I showed his he didnt understand why, it could be a bad thing so I explained about women who go past their due date sometimes the baby defecates inside the womb and if the child ingests that bacteria I could be very dangerous to their health. I knew this because this happened to a friend of mine a few years before, her baby was very sickly for six months and then lost her battle when the infection took the childs life. Would this happen to my baby too I wondered? His mother arrived then and we started towards the door. Then the pain came again, One two three, breath. The pain increased so much that I was doubled over in tears. I was no extremely scared that my thoughts, doubts, and selfish thinking was going to cost my childs health. Now the guilt set in and I started praying. Oh Lord please dont let my baby be sick. I swear I will do the best I can if you just give me a good chance and a healthy baby. Please dear God hear my desperate plea. We arrived at the hospital again and this time I was in so much pain I asked for the epidural I couldnt do this naturally what was I thinking. I needed some pain medication because this was awful . The nurse came in to give me an IV. She poked me so many times that I started to cry again. She missed the vein three times and once she blew a bubble in my arm. I started yelling at her and asked for a different nurse. A new nurse came in and gave me and IV in her first try. I asked again for an epidural and the nurse checked to see how dilated I was. I was dilated to 4cm so she said she would call the anesthesiologist. The anesthesiologist came and had to put a long needle in my spine, to feed the medicine for the epidural. I had to sit really still and couldn’t move. Again I was scared but I felt much better holding on to my husband and my mom. After the medicine took effect I was feeling much better. The pain was now manageable and I could get some sleep. After an hour the Doctors came in to talk to me. They said that the epidural slowed my contractions and they wanted to give me a shot of pitocin to increase my contractions. I agreed and told them about the color when my water broke. They said they would keep a close eye on me and the baby. I decided to get some sleep. I was still scared of becoming a mother and was struggling with my thoughts of being selfish and worry of not being a good mother. But now the thoughts of worry had taken over and I was concerned for my childs health. I kept thinking that what if while we were waiting for my body to dilate my baby was getting sick inside me and I could be losing her. I thought of how selfish I had been throughout my pregnancy, and how I would feel if I had a sickly child or even worse a still born. My thoughts were running wild while my family sat around in the room sharing stories of love family and children. I couldnt help but envy them and their happiness. I wondered if I would ever have that happiness and share stories with my children like that. I feared I wouldnt instead that I would always be selfish and resent my life and wish for my freedom. The worst part was how could I expect my child to love me if I was a selfish women. Was I capable of being a good mother even though I was feeling so selfish and resentful. I layed there for about 7 hours with little progress in the labor. It had already been 24 hours since my first contraction and I was feeling a lot of pressure in my pelvic bone. I called for the Doctor and she said I was only dilated to 8cm and that I hadnt been dilating for three hours. I told her that I felt sick and wanted a c section. She strongly advised me against it. I insisted that something was wrong and if I was supposed to have the baby naturally that my body would still be dilating. She finally agreed and brought me the forms to sign. She told my family that only one person was allowed in the room with me because it was surgery. I picked my husband and she gave him a sterile gown to put on with a cap and gloves. This was it I was about to see my baby for the first time. I was scared and excited at the same time it was like a bittersweet feeling but I just wanted to meet her I was exhausted from the anticipation already and was really anxious. hey took me into the delivery room and strapped me to this board and put a curtain over me. I could feel them tugging and pulling my belly but it was numb so it was sort of like an out of body experience. I lay there asking over and over if everything was okay. My husband held my hand tightly and reassured me everything and fine. It felt like an eternity lying there not knowing if she was going to be alright or if my thoughts had caused something to go badly or if I was going to have a sick baby. They called my husband to go cut the umbilical cord and I just laid there in what felt like purgatory, and seemed like an eternity . Then I saw them take her over to the pediatric table and she wasnt crying yet I started crying because I hadnt heard her cry yet I thought something was wrong. Just as I was asking if she was ok I heard her cry. Tears of relief streamed down my face. They cleaned her up and my husband brought her over to me to see her. She was beautiful, she had dark black hair cute little brown slanted eyes like mine , big chubby cheeks and her daddys nose. I fell in love with her immediately and all the worry and selfish thoughts were gone. She was an angel and God sent her to me. It took awhile for me to recovery and be able to hold her but once she was in my arms I couldnt let her go. I knew that being a good mother to her would be the most significant thing I could ever do in my entire life. I promised myself that day that no matter what feelings I have I was going to be the best mother I could possibly be to her. I would always put her first even when I didnt want to and I would always make sure she is safe and loved. That day My life changed. That Day I went from being a selfish women to being a mother of a beautiful little girl . She will always be one the best thing that ever happened to me.

The Amityville Horror Analysis

The Amityville Horror Analysis For many, buying a new house symbolizes a fresh start. For first time home owners, it may be a sign of self fulfillment and accomplishment. But what if your dream home had a violent and tragic past? What was once the start of something great, turned into a terrifying nightmare? The Amityville Horror misfortune and haunting depict just that. The families that have lived there endured torment and hell, their stories becoming a legend over time. The DeFeo family were the first inhabitants of the infamous Amityville house. Ronald DeFeo, nicknamed Big Ronnie, and his wife Louise were newlyweds who decided the make a family. The first born was Ronald Joseph DeFeo Jr, nicknamed Butch on September 26, 1951. As a child, Butch was overweight and a loner. He was constantly teased at school, and his home life was no better. Big Ronnie disciplined Butch with no mercy. Hot tempered, Big Ronnie often took out his frustrations on Butch, and was seen as a man of authority, not to be reckoned with. Later in his teen years, Butch began using amphetamines, losing most of the weight and becoming bigger, leaner and stronger. His school issues were better; however his life at home continued to be the same, with him and his father fighting relentlessly, sometimes resulting in physical fights. (Osuna, 2003). On one occasion, during a heated argument, Butch pointed a 12 gauge shot gun, with the intention of shooting him. However, the gun did not g o off. Some say this foreshadows the upcoming events. (The True Story of the DeFeo Murders, n.d.). On July 29, 1956, Louise DeFeo gave birth to a daughter, Dawn Theresa DeFeo. Then, on August 16, 1961, Allison Louise DeFeo was born, followed by Marc Gregory DeFeo on September 4, 1962. The last child to be born into the family was John Matthew DeFeo on October 24, 1965. Fed up with living in Brooklyn, New York, the family decided to look for a new home. They eventually settled on a lavish house on 112 Ocean Ave in Amityville, Long Island. The dutch colonial, built in 1925, had two stories, six bedrooms, attic, basement, a gamble roof, an in ground swimming pool, and a boathouse that sat at the edge of Amityville creek. The house was long and narrow, the front showing the half-moon windows, looking somewhat like eyes, overlooking the street. The inside of the house was quite regal. The interior walls were covered in red velvet texture. In the dining room, a luminous crystal chandelier hung over the long dinner table, which seated 6. After moving in, the family decorated the living r oom with statues and paintings, which were in the living room. In the midst of it were a beautiful large fireplace and a baby grand piano. There were also self portraits made for everyone in the family, which was strung along the walls leading up the stairs to the second floor. (Osuna, 2003). It was seemingly the perfect house to raise a big family and dog, Shaggy. The family even placed a sign that read high hopes that hung on a lampost on the property, signifying the new beginning. (Anson, 1977; The True Story of the DeFeo Murders, n.d.). Though the DeFeos had their dream house, the violence still persisted. Butch began using hardcore drugs such as heroin and LSD. He also started committing petty theft. All the while, he was working with his father at Big Ronnies car dealership. Not satisfied with the amount he was being paid, Butch devised a plan to gain more. Given the order to deposit $1,800 in cash and $20,000 in checks into the bank by a staff member, he fabricated a lie, being said he was robbed on the way to the bank by an acquaintance in on the deal. He would then split the money with him. Around 12:30 pm, the two set off for the bank. Two hours later, the men came back to the dealership and declared they had been robbed at gun point. Big Ronnie was enraged and called the local police. After their arrival, they questioned Butch, who immediately became edgy and ill-tempered. He soon became violent with the allegation of lying. A few days later, Butch was summoned to the police station to point out the possible thief. After agreeing, Butch eventually backed out at the last minute. After hearing about this, Big Ronnie became livid, and came to his own conclusion about the incident, and Butch was to blame. He confronted his son at work and belittled him with insults and threats. (The True Story of the DeFeo Murders, n.d.). In the early evening of November 13, 1974, at a nearby bar called Henrys, which was located down the street from the Amityville house, neighborhood friends gathered for drinks ad conversation. Around 6:30 p.m, Butch raced in, face flushed, beads of sweat running down his forehead, and out of breath. Trembling, he yelled that someone had shot both of his parents. Butchs best friend, Robert Kelske ran over to his friend to console him. Robert rallied up patrons at the tavern and they all packed in Butchs 1970 blue Buick Electra 225, heading towards the house. Though it was merely down the block, Robert sped down the street, arriving in seconds. (Osuna, 2003). Quickly, the men ran inside. The house was quiet. Not a single sound was heard except the barking of Shaggy. The men hurried up the staircase, Robert leading. He knew exactly where the master bedroom was located, for he was an avid visitor to the DeFeo residence. Upon arriving to the second floor, the men were instantly greeted with a foul stench, the smell of death. Bracing himself, Robert opened the bedroom door and flipped the light switch. In the bed lay Big Ronnie and his wife Louise. At first sight, it was clear to see a bullet hole in the back of Big Ronnie DeFeos back. Pools of blood surrounded the couple. Dried blood had formed and ran from the wound. Louise DeFeos wounds were not easily seen, for she was snuggled beneath the comforter, however it was clear that she was not sleeping. (Osuna, 2003) Feeling lightheaded, Robert, started back downstairs, taking in what he had just discovered. Another member of the group, John Altieri, began to search the remaining rooms, which belonged to Butchs brothers and sisters. The first room to be checked by John, was that of John, 9 and Marc DeFeo, 12. John DeFeo lay lifelessly in his bed, his Knicks jersey devoured in blood. Lying in a neighboring bed was Marc, face down on his stomach. On his back was bullet wound, indicating how he was slain. (Osuna, 2003). The next to be found was Butchs sisters, Allison, 13, and Dawn, 18. Both were found in bed, dead via gunshots. Gruesomely the girls were shot in the head, though it was difficult to pinpoint the exact entrance wound; there was too much blood to know. Dawn was shot in the face in which half of it was splattered around the innocent girls bedroom wall. After these horrible murders were discovered, the police was called. By 7:00 p.m., the DeFeo residence was infested with officers and in vestigators. Instantly they looked to Butch for answers, seeing as how he was the sole survivor. (The True Story of the DeFeo murders, n.d.) Detectives Gasper Randazzo, Gerard Gozaloff, and Joseph Napolitano were assigned to interrogate Butch. When first asked what might have happened to his family, Butchs answered that the mafia was to blame. Louis Falini, an infamous hit man was the person to shoot and kill his family. Butch had said the hit man committed these crimes out of revenge for a fight the two of them had. Butch feared for his own life, and the police decided to take him back to the station for protection. In his written statement, Butch declared that he had went to bed at 2:00 AM that night. Then, at 4:00 AM, he reportedly heard the toilet flush in the upstairs bathroom, and that his family members were still alive and well. After tossing and turning, Butch decided since he could not fall back asleep, he would head into work early. He went on to say that he left work early and hung out with friends, all the while trying to reach his family, but failing. After returning home, he claimed to have slipped through the kitchen window and then discovered his parents bodies. That is when he raced to the bar. (The True Story of the DeFeo Murders, n.d.) The motive did not hold well for long. After intense examination of evidence in the home, it was apparent that the ammunition used in the murders, was that of Butchs .22 and .35 marlin rifles. Also, through the questioning of Robert Kelske, police found out of Butchs gun infatuation and the rocky relationship between him and his father. At 8:45 a.m., November 15, Butch was read his rights. After hours upon hours of questioning, and evidence pouring in that Butch was in fact inside the house during the murders, his story began to change. Now he was insisting that Louis Falini had held him at gunpoint around 3:30 a.m. and took him to each of his relatives room and to watch them be murdered. However, there were more holes in his story that Swiss cheese. Soon the truth came out. There was no mafia hit on the family. No one was to blame but Butch, who confessed he was the murderer in this statement, It all started so fast. Once I started, I couldnt stop. (The True Story of the DeFeo Murde rs, n.d.) The truth was, on the night of the murders, around 3:00 a.m., Butch casually walked into his parents room and shot and killed them. He then proceeded to do so with his brothers and sisters. It was estimated the killing spree took just 15 minutes. He then cleaned himself up and hid the evidence (gun, bloody clothing, etc). Eerily enough, after the killings were done, he continued his daily routines and went about his day. He went to work, and hung out with friends, as if he hadnt just murdered his entire family. (Eblin, 2007; The True Story of the DeFeo Murders, n.d.) Nearly a year after the murders, Butch finally went to trial on October 14, 1975. William Weber was assigned to be Butchs defense attorney. His defense was that his client was not in his right mind when he committed these murders and offer to plea insanity. After questioning on the stand, Butch gave even more bizarre stories on how is family was murdered, going as far as saying his sister Dawn was the one who killed, not him and he killed out of self defense. He also claimed he heard voices from inside the house telling him to murder his family. When shown a picture of his family members, and asked if he had killed him, Butch answered, As far as Im concerned, if I didnt kill my family, they were going to kill me. And as far as Im concerned, what I did was self-defense and there was nothing wrong with it. When I got a gun in my hand, theres no doubt in my mind who I am. I am God. (The True Story of the DeFeo Murders, n.d.). After weeks of trial, the jury spent two weeks deliberating t he fate of Butch DeFeo. The question was, was he the victim of insanity, or a cold blooded murderer? The results were in; the vote was 12-0. On November 21, 1975, Ronald Butch DeFeo Jr was found guily of 6 accounts of second degree murder, and sentenced to 25 to life on each case. Till this day, Butchs home is the New York State Department of Corrections. (Eblin, 2007; The True Story of the DeFeo Murders, n.d) The house remained vacant for 13 months after the murders. George and Kathy Lutz, also newlyweds, wanted to start afresh. The two had sold their own properties, in order to purchase one they can share together along with Kathys children from her first marriage, Daniel, 9, Christopher, 7, and Melissa Missy, 5, and their Malamute/Labrador mix named Harry. The couple came across the Amityville home from an ad in the newspaper. Like the DeFeos, the Lutz fell in love with the house. The realtor had told them about the horrible incident that took place there, for which gave the couple their reservations. However, after discussing the fact amongst themselves and the children, the Lutz decided to ignore the negative past, in hopes of starting a brighter future. (Anson, 1977; Belanger, 2005) The Lutz bought the house at a price of $80,000, considered to be a bargain. The family moved in on December23, 1975. The DeFeos furniture remained in the house, which some may consider creepy, but for the Lutz, it was a bonus to have the elegant furnishings. A friend of George insisted of blessing the house upon hearing about its history. Having no qualms, George decided it would bring no harm and agreed, seeking out Catholic priest named Father Ralph J. Pecoraro (Father Ray). When Father Ray started his blessing on December 23, after flicking holy water and beginning to pray in an upstairs bedroom, he heard a low masculine voice demand get out .Leaving the house, Father Ray did not inform the Lutz of what he heard, instead telephoning George the day after to advise him to stay clear of the room in which he heard this voice. As it may, the upstairs room, intended to be a sewing room, had formerly been Marc and John DeFeos bedroom. (Anson, 1977; Belanger, 2005) At first, the Lutz noticed nothing unusual about the house. There were cold spots throughout the house, but they insisted it was just a draft. Thinking nothing out of it, the Lutz continued to make a home in the Amityville house. However, through the days to come, strange occurrences began to take place. George describes hearing doors slam in the middle of the night. Id be lying in bed and Id hear the front door slam shut, Lutz said. Its an unmistakable sound in that house you absolutely knew that was the front door. Id go downstairs and the dog would be asleep at the door, nothing would be disturbed, and the door would still be locked. So you start questioning yourself. He also describes hearing what he thought to be a clock radio going off downstairs, sounding like a marching band, with hard footsteps. After running downstairs to check the noise, nothing was present, just their sleeping dog. (Belanger,2005) Kathy Lutz was having her own experiences in the house. One night, Kathy and George awoke and found Kathy to be 40 years older than what she was, the hair wild, a shocking white, the face a mass of wrinkles and ugly lines, and saliva dripping from the toothless mouth. George describes. By morning, her looks returned to normal. Kathy had also recalled having the feeling of being embraced by someone, even smelling perfume. However, she insists this did not feel threatening, but comforting. More days went by, and the paranormal activity became worse each day, hearing more mysterious footsteps throughout the house. One day, Kathy came across a hidden room. It was painted red, and was hid behind a massive bookshelf. The realtor had not told them about this room, so they decided to see the original house structure. The room had not been on it. George explains the room as being big enough for two people to sit. He goes on to say, The room had odors coming out of it, and they werent always t here, and there was no pipe access for sewers or anything like that. We took Harry down there, and he just wouldnt go in. He backed away. Its the only time I can recall him ever cowering from something. That was just one of those discoveries in the first few weeks of moving in. The room soon became to be known as The Red Room (Belanger, 2005; Anson, 1977) Soon, George and Kathy were not themselves. They rarely left and had no desire to leave the house. George seldom went to work, and began to lose weight. Instead of going out with friends, they invited them over. It was in these instances when not only George and Kathy heard mysterious noises, but so did their company. A fact that both made the Lutz happy for not thinking theyre crazy, but also horror because it was the evidence that what was happening was real. (Belanger, 2005) Night after night, George would wake up at 3:15 am, always having the urge to check on the children and the boathouse. Numerous times George had locked the boathouse doors, and within returning to his room, the doors were already swinging open. Coincidentally, this was the estimated time the DeFeo family was murdered. He would be awoken by the front door slamming on occasion, only to find the door tightly shut with the dog asleep in front of it. He also began drinking at a bar called The Witches Brew, a bar that which was Butch DeFeos favorites and a regular customer. Kathy would have horrible nightmares about the murders of the DeFeos nearly every night. They were so detailed, Kathy could pinpoint the exact sequence and how they were murdered. The children also began sleeping on their stomachs, the position in which the bodies of the DeFeo children were found. Missy, their youngest child, began talking frequently about an imaginary friend, Jodie. Missy said Jodie could take on any form, but was often seen as a pig like creature with red glowing eyes. She told Missy her and her family was going to live there forever. One night, while checking the boathouse, George had seen a pair of red eyes glaring at him from Missys bedroom window. It was suggested that this was Jodie. Huge cloven footprints outside the house in the snow had also been found. (Anson, 1977; The Real Amityville House: Seperating Fact From Fiction, n.d.) It was not only the family that was becoming different, but so was the house. Many times, the family would notice an odd, black substance dripping from the keyholes on the door. Jello-like substances were also being found scattered on the floors on the house. There were still immense cold spots, once recording to be a 40-50 degree difference from what the thermostat indicated. Flies had started to infest the house, despite the fact it was the middle of winter. Hundreds of flies were always found in one room; the sewing room, and there was no use in killing them, because they repeatedly came back. And on some nights, Kathy and George even experienced being levitated right off their bed. (Anson; 1977; The Real Amityville House; Seperating Fact From Fiction, n.d.) After decided enough was enough, they decided to bless the house themselves on January 8, 1976. While in the process, George held a silver crucifix and the two spoke the words of the Lords Prayer. In the living room, George could hear a group of voices telling them Will you stop?! By mid January, the Lutz had their final night in the house. The Lutz claims the events of that final night was too terrifying and they have no wish to speak about it. They decided to pack a few belongings, rallied up the kids and dog, and head to Kathys mothers house. But even then the phenomena did not end. George and Kathy recalled slime coming up the staircase towards them and also claims they levitated again. The Lutz did not return back to the house, even for their possessions. It had only been 28 days since they first moved in. (Anson, 1977; The Real Amityville House; Seperating Fact From Fiction, n.d.) The Lutz moved to San Diego and say they were finally freed from the presence inside the house. They stayed married until the late 1980s until they divorced. In 2004, Kathy died of emphysema, and George died in May of 2006. The two still remained close until their deaths. The house still stands today. It was newly renovated, with a new address and new owners. The new owners claim they have not experienced any kind of paranormal occurrences since they have been living there. The intensity of this story has been the base of many books and movies depicting the events that took place in this house. Because of the numerous movies made, most popular question asked if it the haunting was real or a hoax. However the Lutz participated in a polygraph test, in which they both passed with flying colors. (Anson, 1977; The Amityville Horror Official Website, n.d.)

Case Studies: Corporate Social Responsibility across world

Case Studies: Corporate Social Responsibility across world Introduction Over the past decade, Malaysia has witnessed tremendous economic and social changes. Hence, the business world is becoming more complex and demanding. Corporate social responsibility has emerged as one of the major issues in the modern-day businesses. However, developing countries are slower in reacting to this issue as the studies in this area are still scarce. Even though there is some increase in research and studies in corporate social responsibility (Abu-Baker Naser, 2000; Belal, 2001; Imam, 2000; Tsang, 1998), the results of these studies are not satisfying due to the scarcity of studies in the developing countries. Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is becoming more important for national and international businesses. Large corporations discovered and recognized the benefits of providing CSR programs in various locations, these multinational companies are serving as global providers. Now, CSR activities are being performed around the world. Customers nowadays believe that modern businesses have the obligations to serve them better or in a more responsible manner instead of just focusing on maximizing profits for its organizations stakeholders or shareholders. However, only large firms apply this concept compared to those small or middle-sized enterprises due to the power which large firms have. We also refer CSR as corporate or business responsibility, corporate or business citizenship or community relations. The environment that business organizations operate in is filled with dynamism, complexity and uncertainty. Thus, managers must take into consideration the interests of stakeholders and public in performing their respective duties. According to Wartick and Cochran (1985), the concept corporate social responsibility (CSR) has a philosophical orientation. Jones (1996) described CSR as an ideology which has been enhanced and advanced during the past 50 years with the business and research. CSR refers to corporate performance that is normatively correct with respect to all constituents of the firm (Epstein, 1987). How do we clarified the actions that certain firms took are related to corporate social responsibility? According to Carroll (1991), social expectations can be translated into four different stages of corporate social responsibility, viz: economic, legal, ethical and philanthropy. The first stage is economic responsibility. This stage is where the public and society expect corporate organizations to generate profit and at the same time producing goods and services that meet the customers needs. A firms prime social responsibility must be economic involving the production of goods and services at a reasonable profit. Second stage is legal responsibility. Businesses are expected to run within the legal boundaries in order to achieve their goals. However, not all ethical behaviour are codified, businesses should act in the manner that serve the society while meeting economic objectives. Hence, this is categorized as ethical responsibility. Last but not least, the philanthropy responsibi lity. A corporate organization should actively involve in programs promoting human welfare and goodwill. One common difference between philanthropy and ethical responsibilities is that the former are not expected in moral sense. Community expect firms to contribute their resources to social activities. However, they do not hold those firms unethical if they do not practice these social activities. Hence, philanthropy is more to voluntary part of business in conducting social activities. According to Palazzi (2006), there are an increasing number of companies in Western Europe, Japan and North America discovered that by fully integrate the self-interest and needs of customers, employees, communities and their beloved planet, they can make good business. Therefore, corporate social responsibility includes 6 elements where management of each organization should implement in order to enhance growth and profitability. CSR is about how to manage these 6 responsibilities: customers, employees, business partners, environment, communities and investors (Palazzi et al., 2006). Providing goods and services in a fair price so that the customers will get to enjoy the added value of the products provided by the firm and at the same time the firm will earn profits. By adopting CSR, a firms image is strong and well recognised; it provides good welfare for its employees. Business partners such as suppliers, suppliers will only build long term relationship with firms that are well-re spected and trusted. Firm must never conduct any operations that will harm the environment such as toxic dispersion; it will only bring damage to the environment and also the society. Health, stability and prosperity of the communities are the success factors of any businesses nowadays; businesses must involve themselves in social activities such as charity or donations. Practicing CSR in daily operations no doubt maximize profit in long-run which will benefit the investors. In contrast of co-founder of Hewlett Packard Company in 1939, Dave Packard, he thinks many people assume, wrongly, that a company exists simply to make money. While this is an important result of a companys existence, we have to go deeper and find the real reasons for our being. As we investigate this, we inevitably come to the conclusion that a group of people get together and exist as an institution that we call a company so that they are able to accomplish something collectively that they could not accomplish separately they make a contribution to society, a phrase which sounds trite but is fundamental. No doubt that people assume the purpose of a company is to generate profit, primary objective of a company is to continue its existence or to survive, followed by maintaining growth and development and then make a profit. Company is a structure of people where these people wish to achieve objectives that could not be achieved by the efforts of individuals on their own. CSR involves the responsibilities corporations have to the societies within which they are based and operate. CSR is about the organizations and businesses taking actions beyond their boundaries which will impact the environment and society even though doing so incur higher cost. Several concepts that are closely related to CSR: social and environmental auditing, stakeholder theory, business ethics, environmental sustainability, strategic philanthropy and corporate governance. Definition The issues of corporate social responsibility has been debated and argued since 1950s, latest analyses by Secchi (2007) and Lee (2008) reported that the definition has been changing in meaning and practice. In both corporate and academic world there is uncertainty as how to defined. According to Jackson and Hawker (2001), we have looked for a definition and basically there isnt one. However, this is not quite accurate because the truth is there is an abundance of definitions, which are, according to Van Marrewijk (2003), often biased toward specific interests and thus prevent the development and implementation of the concept. Five dimensions of CSR were identified through a content analysis of the definitions; these five dimensions are environmental dimension, social dimension, economic dimension, stakeholder dimension and voluntaries dimension. Jones (1980) defined CSR as the notion that corporations have an obligation to constituent groups in society other than stockholders and beyond that prescribed by law or union contract, indicating that a stake may go beyond mere ownership. Corporate social responsibility is defined as a principle stating that corporations should be accountable for the effects of any of their actions on their community and environment by Frederick (1992). CSR is defined as the degree of moral obligation that may be ascribed to corporations beyond simple obedience to the laws of the state by Kilcullen and Kooistra (1999). According to Foran (2001), CSR can be defined as the set of practices and behaviours that firms adopt towards their labour force, towards the environment in which their operations are embedded, towards authority and towards civil society. CSR is also defined as the integration of social and environmental concerns in business operations, including dealings with stakeholders (Lea, 2002) . According to Andersen (2003), he defined corporate social responsibility broadly to be about extending the immediate interest from oneself to include ones fellow citizens and the society one is living in and is a part of today, acting with respect for the future generation and nature. There are many available definitions of CSR and they are consistently linking to the five dimensions. From 1980s to 20th century, definitions of CSR must include the 5 dimensions, it is not a must to include all 5 but it is best to do so. Importance of CSR CSR has become increasingly important, now it is considered as a business strategy. Consumers prefer to purchase products or services from companies which they trust; suppliers want to form business partnerships with companies they can rely on; employees wish to work for companies they respect and being respected in return; and NGOs want to cooperate with companies seeking feasible solutions and innovations in areas of common interests. According to Carly Fiorina, Chairman and CEO of Hewlett Packard Company, winning companies of this century will be those who prove their actions that they can earn profit and increase social value at the same time. Shareowners, customers, partners and employees are going to vote with their feet in order to reward those companies that fuel social change through business. This has become the new reality of business, one that everyone should embrace and adopt. Arguments and debates about the importance of CSR, the main topic is why CSR became more import ant? Many factors and influences have led to increasing attention being devoted to the role of companies and CSR. These include: Sustainable development Paul Hawken has defined sustainability as an economic state where the demands placed upon the environment by people and commerce can be met without reducing the capacity of the environment to provide for future generations. Leave the world a little better than you found it, take no more than you need, try not to harm life or the environment, make amends if you do. According to Hohnen (2007), United Nations studies showed that humankind is using natural resources at an excessive rate, a rate where the used resources failed to be replaced in time. If this scenario continues, future generations will not have the resources they need for their development. According to Maurice Strong, Chairman of the Earth Council (1992), he said as we enter the next century, industry will be the most important engine for change in the drive for sustainable solutions to the worlds environmental problems. These issues alerted the world and required immediate actions. Organizations must play their parts in aiding the environmental problems. Corporate social responsibility is one of the solutions and organizations are advised to practice and implement social responsibility in their daily operations. Globalization Globalization is a complex process because it involves rapid social change that is occurring simultaneously across a number of dimensions in the world economy, in politics, in communications, in the physical environment and in culture and each other these transformations interact with the others (Tomlinson, 1999). Growing concerns on human resource management, environmental protection, health and safety due to the economic globalization, CSR can play a vital role in locating the impacts and effects that a business might have on labour, society and economy. CSR also provide certain steps that can assist the business to build and maintain the public welfare. Governance According to Hohnen (2007), governments and intergovernmental bodies such as the UN, the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and the International Labour Organization (ILO) have developed several guidelines and declarations which companies can follow and apply in their future business conduct. Example, government in Penang restricted food sellers from using polystyrene for food packing every Monday. Finance Consumers and investors are more interested in supporting responsible business practices; they are seeking more information on how organizations going to react accordingly after defining risks and opportunities which related to social issues. What actions can the organization take so that it will best serve the society and meet the economic objectives? In the CSR context, a sound CSR approach can help build share and market value for an organization, lower the cost of capital and improve the responsiveness to markets (Hohnen, 2007) Protect the environment Some of the worlds largest companies have showed their commitment to CSR by showing initiatives at reducing their environmental footprint. These companies believe that financial and environmental performance can work together to drive company growth and social reputation. We green the earth slogan made by some multinational companies in Malaysia who own large golf courses within residential area is one of the CSR initiatives seems to protect the environment. According to Hohnen (2007), a CSR approach can improve corporate governance, transparency, accountability and ethical standards. Environment stewardship helps build and retain a companys value. In addition, undergraduates and postgraduates will expose to the importance of taking care of the environment through studying corporate social responsibility. Potential Benefits of Corporate Social Responsibility Being socially responsible is increasingly important for modern organizations. This is due to the public becoming more demanding towards firms in terms of being socially responsible. Einer Elhauge, a professor of law at the Harvard Law School, as part of his contribution on the Environmental Protection and the Social Responsibility of Firms, quoted that Corporate managers have the operational discretion to sacrifice corporate profits in the interest of the public. Lower Operating Cost Companies must view this as an opportunity and see the benefit it can obtain from giving back to the communities and employees (McKee, 2005). Lower operating cost may be the most immediate and dependable benefit for a corporation committed to high ethical standards and social responsibility (Ashforth, 1989). On environmental issues, a company who is striving to minimize its emission of greenhouse gasses will be looking at ways of minimizing fuel consumption. Initial investment in more energy efficient vehicles and appliances may incurred very high cost, it will eventually lead to cost saving. If a company is using less energy, then its energy bills will be lower. If a company is minimizing water usage, then its water bills will be lower. The same is true for maximizing the use of recycled materials. Recycled materials are much lower priced compared to raw materials. Employees: Recruitment, Retention and Productivity According to Ivy (2005), the other benefits of adopting corporate social responsibility practices include attracting the most talented and loyal workers. Their employees are more committed to their work because they are proud to be part of that organization. Employees value a corporation that is able to improve the life of the community. A Socially Responsible Corporation considers a workers dignity and offers good health care and retirement plan. Therefore, these employees are not keen to take lifts when opportunity is at hand. Bloemer (1992) found out that the corporation benefits from a stable workforce and reduced training costs. Evidence for this view are clearly stated in the Kelly survey in Crains Detroit Business report found that corporations that behave in socially and environmentally responsible manners attract the top talent and ninety percent of those interviewed would prefer to work for organizations are ethically and socially responsible. Brand Image and Customer Loyalty McKee (2005) suggested that the most significant business benefit of corporate social responsibility is the positive effect it can have on brand image and customer loyalty. If a company is known to be responsible and ethical, and if it markets itself as such, then it will be well positioned in a competitive market. Consumers, weary of the tales of ruthless corporations doing everything in their power to maximize profits, are becoming more and more interested in supporting companies who are socially responsible. Many firms which have such practices include Body Shop that uses all natural, non chemical substances to make their products. They emphasis on no animal testing and many customers are proud to be using their products that support the humanity values that the company share. Differentiated Products According to Klein and Dawar (2004), differentiated product is one of the benefits that enable an organization in order to remain competitive in todays marketplace. Through product differentiation, organizations aim at achieving a competitive advantage by increasing the perceived value of their products relative to the perceived value of the products of their competitors. Particularly, for organizations that implement socially responsible policies, product differentiation can satisfy the unmet needs of consumers offering both financial and business benefits to the firm. Firms that offer environmentally friendly products experience higher sales growth than firms that sell conventional products (Ramasamy Ting, 2004). Besides, firms that offer unique value propositions to consumers differentiate their products in consumers minds and contribute to building customer loyalty based solely on ethical values. Therefore, in the context of corporate social responsibility, organizations develop new products aiming, not only to become more competitive, but also to make a greater impact on society through their ethical practices. A CSR Europe MORI study in 2000 showed that 70 percent of European consumers say that a companys commitment to corporate social responsibility is important when buying a product and one in five would be willing to pay more for products that are socially and environmentally responsible. On the other hand, one in six shoppers frequently boycott or buy products because of the manufacturers reputation. Improved Risk Management Improved and proper management is one of the benefits gained when a corporation embarked in corporate social activities. Modern organizations implement risk management strategies to decrease or even eliminate the risk posed on the organization by a variety of practices associated to several potential threats (Porter Kramer, 2002). Organizations that have made countless efforts over the years to build a good reputation and have spent a lot of money to maintain it through product development and customer loyalty strategies. However it could be ruined is seconds (Tencati, Perrini, Pogutz, 2004). Such incidents include scandals, environmental accidents, foreign labour transgressions and internal corruptions draw the attention of the media and may cause irreversible damage to a firms reputation. The only way to anticipate such events are to embed social responsibility into organizational culture that contributes to a stable reputation for a form and in order to offset such risks. This c ould save cost and time in repairing and building firms reputation using the usual ways. Access to capital Financial institutions such as banks and private loan companies are increasingly incorporating social and environmental criteria into their assessment of projects. When making decisions about where to place their money, investors are looking for indicators of effective CSR management. Maignan, Tomas and Hult (1999) argued that a business plan incorporating a good CSR approach is often seen as a must for good management. When a company engage in corporate social activities shows that they care about their planet and it give a good impression towards to the investors. Hence both private and public investors are more willing to invest in such ventures because it will gain support from many parties and corporate social responsibility based companies tend to last longer. Arguments underpinning CSR Today many persons are discussing the social responsibilities of business; there are various reasons both for and against businesss assumption of social responsibilities. People in the business world argue and debate about social responsibility, some supporting this concept and some do not see it that way. Arguments for corporate social responsibility Long-run self interest Long-run self interest is one of the arguments which favour corporate social responsibility, this ideology makes the society expects the businesses to accomplish and conduct various social goods and actions. According to Davis (2001), a business must conduct social practices if it expects to achieve objectives and earn profits in long-run. The firm that responds fastest to the needs of the society hence will have a better community in for the firm to run its business. Recruiting employees will be easier, the employees hired are better in quality. Besides that, absenteeism and turnover will decrease. As the social of one society improved, crime rate will definitely go down and money can be saved up as the properties are well protected. The dispute can lead to several directions, for example a better society provides a better environment for business. It is hard to believe that incurring higher cost for social activities will result in higher profit for the business. However, it is the normal outcome that business can perform better when it runs in a better environment. Recent surveys confirm that the correlation between social and financial performance is their positive or neutral (Margolis Walsh, 2003). Public Image A firms main objective is to attain and retain more customers, desirable employees and various benefits through enhancing its public image. According to Davis (2001), it is easy to extend this public-image concept through the accomplishment of a variety of social goods. Public holds social goals as top priority, firms which has intention of achieving a benevolent public image must reinforce and prioritize these social goals. CSR has become a vital tool in promoting and improving the public image of some worlds largest corporations (Christian, 2004). Let Business Try Many institutions tried and failed in handling social issues, why not give business a chance to do so. Many comments were made due to the failures of other institutions, people are turning to business. Comments like the following: Give business a try. Maybe they can come up with some new ideas. Let business have a role. They couldnt do any worse! These comments were made out of frustration and desperation instead of reasoning; many people are expecting that business institution will fail in handling the social issues. The truth is that there is no evidence showing that we perform badly in handling and solving the social problems using businesss capabilities (Davis, 2001). Business Has the Resources Business is believed to have valuable resources which can be used in handling social problems; hence society should put the resources into good use. Sadly, many people wrongly assumed that business has all the money where the society need to do is to tap the till of business and the social problems will just fades away. In most cases, there is a reasoned assumption that business has a pool of management talent, functional expertise and capital resources (Davis et al., 2001). With this pool, business definitely has the requirements to solve social problems in the society. In addition, business is well known for its innovative ability. In some social problems, innovation is needed badly for application. Problems can be Profits While the creativity of business can contribute to social problems, it can also be an advantage at times when apply conventional business theories to these social problems. Although this idea cannot be applied to all of the social problems, it is encouraged that business should involve in social areas more effectively. According to Davis (2001), many problems can be solved and settled profitably according to traditional business concepts. Prevention is better than Curing It is argued that business should resolve social problems once encountered. This supports the idea of saving resources and the managements time and also preventing the social problem from developing into a disastrous situation to the business. Furthermore, the progress of producing goods and services can be affected when business is busy dealing with serious social problems that have yet to be resolved. Argument against Social responsibility Profit Maximization The most prevailing argument against business assumption of social responsibility is the classical that it challenges the traditional mindset of the companies is to focus on profit maximization (Friedman, 1971). According to the industrys point of view, the companys desire is to think in the best interest of the shareholder and satisfy them by maximizing profit and find all means to increase profit. One common practice in most industries to maximize profit is to minimize cost. Friedman (1971) mentioned that in a free enterprising firm system, employees responsibility is do what their superiors command them to do as long they do what their are told, they would survive in the economy provided their actions are abiding to the laws and ethical customs of the society. The employees desire is accord with the shareholders interest that is to maximize profit. However imposing a new concept of corporate social responsibility, the company dilutes the aim of profit maximization and makes the sh areholders unhappy. This is due to the managers spending their money on something that has no direct impact on their cash flow. Besides that, Friedman argued that the concept of corporate social responsibility may overthrow the old doctrine of the economy to maximize profit. Cost of Social Involvement Friedman (1962) found out that imposing the culture of corporate social responsibility in a firm takes away a lot of the firms financial resources though the outcome may not be as rewarding as predicted. The company must make wise decision to allocate their resources in the right causes for it is scarce. Most companies commit small resource to corporate social activities due to social pressure and obligation. However, the public tend to forget the firms effort towards corporate social activities after a period of time. Therefore it is very tiring for a company to keep renewing their commitment towards social acts since the customers cannot remember the organizations contribution towards society even it was just last month ago. When the business is pushed into social obligations, many additional costs will drive out marginal firms in all the industries (Friedman et al., 1971). In the chemical industry, many chemical firms shut down because they are unable to meet the requirement of pu rchasing the new pollution equipment that is highly priced. Lack of Social Skills Traditional companies do not have the skills to handle the social matters regarding the publics concern towards the companys effort in corporate social goals. As mentioned Friedman (1971), it is insane for a firm to give social related duty to technicians or accountants. They are unfit for the job because they are not trained to work in such way. The firm may need to hire sophisticated people which are public relation officers to create an image for the company and handle all the social matters. This may require the organization to create a new department just to achieve these goals. Problems may arise since the firm needs to incur new costs to the company. Dilution of Businesss Primary Purpose Friedman (1962) suggested that a firms involvement in social goals might hinder businesss emphasis on economic productivity, divert the interest if its leaders, and weaken business in the market places, with the result of the firm achieving poorly in both economic and social aspects. The effect of social goals in corporations is confusing the societys perception in the economic role of the business. If a company is inadequate to achieve its social goals, the society would suffer socially and economically (Friedman et al., 1962). Weakened International Balance of Payment Argument against business assumption social responsibility requires the international balance of payments thought it is frequently ignored. In normal practices, social programs are counted in business costs. In order to recover these costs, the business would usually add the cost into the price of the product. If social activities dilute businesss capacity for high productivity, then this lower efficiency is likely to lead to higher product cost (Friedman et al., 1962). A company would lose its competitive advantage in the international market if they comply with the social obligation. In the international market especially regarding raw material, the price is an essential criterion to consider. When a product is priced higher than its competitor due to social obligation, the clients will choose cheaper choices and outcome is the company loses out a lot of customers. Lack of Accountability From economic point of view, entrepreneurs have no accountability towards the public. Friedman quoted that Accountability always go with responsibility. A firm which embarks into social activities must be responsible towards the people. Until the firm is ready to be establish a proper line of social accountability from business to public, the business is preferable just focus on maximizing profit and not engage in any social activities. Lack of Broad Support One final point is that social involvement may lack a broad range of support from all groups of the society. Although many people support the idea of corporate social responsibility, many parties opposes it (Henderson Hazel, 2001). Unlike China, there are a lot of countries that does not give full support to firms that has social goals. The lack of agreements is among the general public, in government, even among the businessmen themselves. Many reasons are mentioned in the above statements. Such hostile oppositions will create disastrous effects on the company if it fails its social mission. Case Summary Burgerville USA is a family owned fast-food restaurant, founded by George Propstra in Vancouver, Washington 1922. Burgerville applies this mentality made fresh from local ingredients, this concept still stand strong up till today. Burgerville had never used frozen patties, used only the freshest ingredients. Besides that, onions rings sold in Burgerville are made from onions grown in nearby Walla Walla. Burgerville has expanded up to 39 locations in the northwest United States, currently run by Propstras son in law, Tom Mears. The key element in the companys strategy remains unchanged which is the fresh, local concept. Company is using fresh, local products in order to offer higher quality food. This strategy moves Burgerville out from the fast-food industry into fast-casual dining sector, a niche in the restaurant industry. Mears decided that the company will not play the chea