THE PROS AND CONS ABOUT LEGALIZING MARIJUANA Essay Example For Students

THE PROS AND CONS ABOUT LEGALIZING MARIJUANA Essay Mainstream vs. Alternative Media; who do we believe? The Journal of Media Studies Writer Discussion of the legalization of marijuanabrings up two main issues, those who are pro- marijuana and those who are anti- marijuana. These issues have beencovered by both mainstream and alternative media, mainstream being pro, and alternative being anti. Thesetwo factions have been arguing over this issue in the halls of justice for many years. Because most of the Americansociety is mainly exposed to only mainstream media, they are not aware of other factors of legalizingmarijuana that alternative media covers. The problem caused by this lack of exposure, is that the public may be deprivedof the truth, and may be led to believe facts that are not true. Marijuana and Medicine Both pro and anti-marijuana groups have discussed whether or not marijuana can be used for medicinal purposes. Mainstream groups do notbelieve that there are any convincing reasons to make marijuana a treatment to sick patie nts. Their position is thatmarijuana can have harmful long-term effects. The Anti-Legalization Forum explains that some of these effects are:impairment of the immune system due to the inability of T-cells to battle off diseases, delaying puberty in both malesand females, and unhealthy and smaller children born to women who used marijuana during pregnancy. TheDrug Enforcement Administration believes that since marijuana is not accepted by any American healthassociations, there is no reason to legalize the drug. They think that the main reason why pro marijuana advocates use themedical use argument is because the uninformed public can be easily convinced to support the movement. Simplynot enough evidence proves that marijuana can be used medically (Claim V). Unlike the D.E.A., lobbyinggroups such as the Cannabis Action Network and the Indiana Civil Liberties Union, believe that marijuana is abeneficial herb, and not a harmful drug (ICLU). Alternative media sources, such as Marijuana A s Medicine, state thatmarijuana can be used as medicine for: nausea, appetite stimulation, relief from vomiting, reduction in spasticity,glaucoma, epilepsy, anxiety, depression, asthma, multiple sclerosis, stimulation of the immune system, Aids patient andcancer patients. For victims with AIDS, cancer and multiple sclerosis, smoking marijuana is believed to helpreduce emesis, suppress vomiting, and stimulate the appetite. People with multiple sclerosis are convinced thatsmoking marijuana also reduces the intensity of their spasms. Marijuana As Medicine, a Cannabis ActionNetwork pamphlet, states that, Two highly qualified and experienced ophthalmologists have accepted marijuana ashaving a medical use in treatment of glaucoma. When taken, parts of cannabis lower intraocular pressure in theeye. There are rumors that marijuana suppresses the immune system. Marijuana Myths dismisses this belief becausethe myth was based on studies where the experimental animals were given near-lethal-dos es of cannabinoids, andthese results have never been repeated on humans. In fact, two studies displayed that the immune system mayactually have been stimulated by the use of hashish and marijuana. On the other hand, a separate alternative sourcestated that marijuana (Delta-nine-THC) does possess an immunosuppressive effect. Marijuana shuts off somecells in the liver, instead of stimulating them. The effect is only temporary and goes away rapidly. According toMarijuana As Medicine, Approximately 30% of all prescription drugs can be replaced by THC, so pro- marijuanagroups lead to believe that one of the reasons why the drug is not legalized is because it would take the profitaway from currently used drugs. These groups suppose that since no one has ever died from marijuana use, it mustbe safe. We can already see the different myths that people read and get confused about. The one thing that pro-marijuana groups agree upon is that Marijuana, in its natural form, is one of the safest t herapeutically activesubstances known to man (Marijuana As Medicine). Marijuana and Crime Another issue considered by the massmedia is whether marijuana has an effect on crime or not. As written in the Anti-Legalization Forum, the D.E.A. We will write a custom essay on THE PROS AND CONS ABOUT LEGALIZING MARIJUANA specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now believes that drug use contributes to crime and violence. Many police officers say that criminal activity is notcaused by dealers, but by those that are under the influence of the drug. A study showed that among males (18-49years old) those who used cannabis were ten times more likely to commit violent acts than non-users. Anti marijuanagroups look to the example of gangs, after the repeal of Prohibition, gangster activity had not decreased. Experts are positive that legalizing marijuana would only add to the burden of criminal, health and social services. There is no denying the fact that drug use changes behavior and exacerbates criminal activity (Claim I). Hempfor Food claims that marijuana supporters believe that the only criminal activity caused by marijuana is donebecause of the illegal status of the drug, and not because of any influence that the drug may have on users. They thinkthat legalization would eliminate black market activity. In Holland, marijuana is legal and so far, the Dutch crimerate has declined and not increased as one would anticipate (87). Supporters of the legalization of marijuana say thatthe United States government can profit from legalizing marijuana because they can tax the drug. A studydone by Vera Rubin, of the Coptic study, found no links of cannabis to criminal behavior. She said that smokers andnon-smokers had identical extroversion scores and work records. There was no proof found that marijuana impairsmotor skills, so she believes that large doses of marijuana cut short ones motivation to work (86) . Marijuanaand Behavior Behavior is altered by using marijuana. The Medical Post states that marijuana has always beendepicted as producing a lethargic, mellow, laid-back effect rather than acting as a stimulant. A study was done onyoung, male marijuana users to show any signs of stimulation. These participants engaged in antisocial behavior. .u49a0ba62f0ac56cd1b6100dd4a6d1d97 , .u49a0ba62f0ac56cd1b6100dd4a6d1d97 .postImageUrl , .u49a0ba62f0ac56cd1b6100dd4a6d1d97 .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u49a0ba62f0ac56cd1b6100dd4a6d1d97 , .u49a0ba62f0ac56cd1b6100dd4a6d1d97:hover , .u49a0ba62f0ac56cd1b6100dd4a6d1d97:visited , .u49a0ba62f0ac56cd1b6100dd4a6d1d97:active { border:0!important; } .u49a0ba62f0ac56cd1b6100dd4a6d1d97 .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u49a0ba62f0ac56cd1b6100dd4a6d1d97 { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .u49a0ba62f0ac56cd1b6100dd4a6d1d97:active , .u49a0ba62f0ac56cd1b6100dd4a6d1d97:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .u49a0ba62f0ac56cd1b6100dd4a6d1d97 .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .u49a0ba62f0ac56cd1b6100dd4a6d1d97 .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u49a0ba62f0ac56cd1b6100dd4a6d1d97 .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u49a0ba62f0ac56cd1b6100dd4a6d1d97 .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u49a0ba62f0ac56cd1b6100dd4a6d1d97:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .u49a0ba62f0ac56cd1b6100dd4a6d1d97 .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .u49a0ba62f0ac56cd1b6100dd4a6d1d97 .u49a0ba62f0ac56cd1b6100dd4a6d1d97-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u49a0ba62f0ac56cd1b6100dd4a6d1d97:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Walk A Mile With A Disability EssayThe doctors concluded that these drugs could possibly disturb social interactions. Anti- marijuana groups feel thatlegalizing drugs encouraged non-users that drugs are acceptable (Anti-Legalization Forum Claim III). Hemp for Food, an alternative source printed that subjects in a Jamaican study described marijuana as havingthe effect of making them smarter, more energetic, happy, and more conscious. They believe that the drug producedan overall sense of well-being and self-defense. The subjects used it as a work motivator (86). Theimplication for legalization is that the drug has different effects on different groups of people, so we are not able to predictoutcomes for individuals (Now Research). Marijuana and the Brain Mainstream media believes that marijuanaproduces flat brainwaves. Marijuana Myths asserts that the Partnership for a Drug-Free America ran an ad thattried to display this belief. A few years ago they made a commercial that first showed a normal brainwave, then theyshowed a second brainwave that supposedly belonged to a 14-year-old marijuana user. It was a flatbrainwave that tried to show that the brainwaves or a drug user is the same as a comatose human being. ABC got the groupto admit to lying, yet they still ran the ad. Marijuana Myths wrote about a study that was done to show thatmarijuana causes damage to the brain. The study was thrown out because of its insufficient experiment. There weretoo many criticisms, particularly because the study was done on only four monkeys. Real studies on humans donot show any damage to the brain. In actuality, smoking marijuana has the effect to increase alpha wave activity bya small amount. Alpha waves are related to relaxation, which can be associate with human productivity. Expertsare unsure if marijuana affects short-term memory, but they think that any effect disappears when the person is nolonger under the influence, similar to the immune system effect. According to Hemp for Food, a studydone in 1981 showed that the subjects tested actually believed that smoking potent marijuana 16 times a day hadimproved their minds over a time period of 10 years. Their brains have been tested, and the results showed that therewas no difference between their brains and one of a non-smoker. There is also no proof of an increase in IQ bysmoking marijuana. Another study said that there was no impairment of physiological, sensory and perceptual-motorperformance, tests of concept information, abstracting ability or cognitive style and tests or memory. The studystates that heavy and prolonged use of ganja does not damage one socially or psychologically (86). Marijuanaand the Reproductive System There are many claims that say that marijuana causes damage to the reproductivesystem. The D.E.A. states that smoking marijuana can make young children go through puberty much later thannormal children. They also state that the drug can cause difficulties in babies born to mothers who smoked duringpregnancy. From this source, Peter Fried, Ph.D., found that Marijuana use during pregnancy has harmfuleffects on childrens intellectual abilities a decade or more after they are born. The harm done by drugs is real andlong-lasting. Dr. Drew from the TV program Loveline, had said that marijuana can cause birth defects if either the male orfemale used it, even if it was used four months prior to conception. He also believes that smoking marijuana canlower ones sex drive, and that it does not help if the man has an impotency problem. Marijuana use may lower thesperm count in males, but not to the point to be used as birth control. Marijuana Myths responds to the belief thatmarijuana causes developmental problems in children, by claiming that it was a false rumor created by antimarijuana groups in order to steer people away from drug use. They state the studies done on this subject to befaulty or misread. However, they do admit that there may be some effects to childhood development, but they say thatthey are not drastic and are rare. They say that marijuana does not make men impotent or sterile and that forsome, it enhances their sex lives. Feelings and emotions become more colorful to them. Bill Drake, author o fMarijuana: An Herb for the Aging, states that marijuana may actually arouse an interest in sexuality in the elderly. .ufa89660a2caf64ddef7b641b8a1c36e6 , .ufa89660a2caf64ddef7b641b8a1c36e6 .postImageUrl , .ufa89660a2caf64ddef7b641b8a1c36e6 .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .ufa89660a2caf64ddef7b641b8a1c36e6 , .ufa89660a2caf64ddef7b641b8a1c36e6:hover , .ufa89660a2caf64ddef7b641b8a1c36e6:visited , .ufa89660a2caf64ddef7b641b8a1c36e6:active { border:0!important; } .ufa89660a2caf64ddef7b641b8a1c36e6 .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .ufa89660a2caf64ddef7b641b8a1c36e6 { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .ufa89660a2caf64ddef7b641b8a1c36e6:active , .ufa89660a2caf64ddef7b641b8a1c36e6:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .ufa89660a2caf64ddef7b641b8a1c36e6 .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .ufa89660a2caf64ddef7b641b8a1c36e6 .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .ufa89660a2caf64ddef7b641b8a1c36e6 .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .ufa89660a2caf64ddef7b641b8a1c36e6 .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .ufa89660a2caf64ddef7b641b8a1c36e6:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .ufa89660a2caf64ddef7b641b8a1c36e6 .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .ufa89660a2caf64ddef7b641b8a1c36e6 .ufa89660a2caf64ddef7b641b8a1c36e6-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .ufa89660a2caf64ddef7b641b8a1c36e6:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Anne Frank EssayJamaican studies, from Hemp for Food, have displayed that mothers who use marijuana believe that theirchildren are healthier. The experiment that was done that claimed that marijuana is harmful to the reproductive systemwas rejected by the scientific community because the controlled animals were given near-lethal doses. Onceoff of the drug, the animals returned to normal. When done on actual human beings, experiments have not showndamage to the reproductive system. Not all mainstream claims are false, and not all alternative claims are true, butpeople would rather get their news from the television than from a piece of paper that they found in their mailbox . Themajority of the population gets its information from mainstream media sources because they believe that it is morecredible than alternative media sources. Evidence shows how the public is provided with contradictory facts, soone can see that it can be a difficult in choosing the which source to believe. The news has to make stories short, dueto limited time, but alternative media sources have plenty of time to gather hidden or unbroadcastedinformation. In contrast to TV news, documentaries done on this topic are able to spend unlimited hours researchingsince they rarely have deadlines. People should be presented with facts only if they are in complete detail andhave been thoroughly investigated. Alternative media seem to have this ability, yet are sometimes doubted fortheir information because people usually believe things that are said on either TV, radio, or other sources ofmainstream media. There is not much that can be done to fix this problem. Alternative media groups are constrained in themedium of their production. They have small budgets and are unable to spend the same amount of moneythat mainstream media sources spend. Since they dont have expensive equipment to work with, they are forcedto make the best out of what they have. Because their projects may appear unprofessional, people assume thatwhat they have to say cannot be trusted. What people can do is try to educate others of this issue and attempt toget people to change their attitudes toward alternative media. What might be effective is if these alternativegroups put their effort into creating a video or display that exhibited why alternative media is restricted, and whypeople should start looking at their claims from a different perspective. People would be better off if they are faced withboth sides and come to a reasonable conclusion derived from both sources. Since the topic being discussed is onthe legalization of marijuana, we need to use this information in creating a solution for t his dilemma. Because marijuanais illegal, there are few mainstream groups that will go against the law and promote the legalization process. Perhaps groups like C.A.N. can create a video or anything as effective to reach out to the public and make them awareof what they are missing out on. The pamphlets that are already being distributed by these groups are a small step,yet people are still hesitant in believing any information printed on them. However, people might change theirminds if the information written on these pamphlets informed them of reasons to credit them. Alternative mediagroups are getting this idea across slowly. It is only a matter of time until people start taking their claims into account. Works Cited Cannabis Action Network. Cannabis Action Network Strategy and Objectives. New Orleans. . Lies Lies Lies. Berkeley, Lexington, New Orleans. . Marijuana As Medicine. New Orleans. . Restriction Lifted on Growing Hemp. New Orleans: 1993. . This is What The Government Says About Marijuana. Berkeley, Lexington, New Orleans. Cronin, Russell. High Hopes for the First Legal Cannabis Crop. TheIndependent 12 July 1993: 6. Drake, Bill. Marijuana: An Herb for the Aging. 1986. Online. Netscape. 10 Feb 1997. Florida Legalization Organization. Hemp for Food, Fuel, Fiber Medicine, The Economy and theEnvironment. Lacrosse, Florida: 1989: 1-3, 5-8, 15, 80, 86-89. Gettman, John. Marijuana the Brain. High TimesMarch 1995: 33-36. Hager, Paul. Marijuana Myths. Indiana Civil Liberties Union Drug Task Force. Online. Netscape 9 Feb 1997. Hilts, Philip J. Relative Addictiveness of Drugs. New York Times 2 Aug 1994, sec. 3:3+. Now Research Indicates Marijuana is a Stimulant. Medical Post 15 Oct. 1991. Loveline. Prod. David Sittenfeld. With Dr. Drew, Adam Carolla, and Kris McGaha. MTV. 25 Feb. 1997. Rotstein, Arthur H. Pot Studies CalledLikely Key to Brains Secrets. Arizona Daily Star 12 Nov 1995: C12+. United States. Drug EnforcementAgency. Anti-Legalization Forum. FBI/D.E.A. Training Academy: GPO, 1994.

Will Your SAT Photo ID Work Learn the SAT ID Requirements

Will Your SAT Photo ID Work Learn the SAT ID Requirements SAT / ACT Prep Online Guides and Tips One of the most important things to remember on SAT test day is to take your photo ID with you to the test center. If you don't have an appropriate photo ID with you, you may not be allowed to take the SAT! But how do you know what types of IDs will work? What should you do if you don't have a photo ID? In this article, I'll answer these questions and explain all of the SAT ID requirements so you can make sure to arrive on test day with an acceptable ID in hand. Why Is a Photo ID Required? A photo ID is required to confirm your identity and registration. In the past, there have been issues with cheating, and some students have taken the SAT for other people. The information and picture on your photo ID will be checked against the info and photo on your Admission Ticket to ensure that everybody takes their own test. If any of the information doesn’t match or you don’t have an acceptable ID, you won’t be allowed to take the SAT. If it’s discovered after the test that you used false or invalid ID, your scores will be cancelled, and your test fees won’t be refunded. SATID Requirements Your photo ID must meet the following requirements. Your ID Must Be Valid Your ID must be a valid (not expired) ID that is government-issued or issued by the school you currently attend. School IDs from the prior school year are valid through December of the next academic year. A school ID from the 2015-2016 school year is valid through December 31, 2016. If you're 21 or over, the only acceptable form of identification is an offical government-issued ID. You can't use a student ID. It Must Be an Original Document You can’t bring a picture or photocopy for your SAT photo ID. Also, it must show your full legal name, and the name on your ID must completely match the name on your Admission Ticket. The Photo Must Match the Photo on your Ticket The ID must have a photo that clearly matches the photo on your Admission Ticket and your appearance on test day. It Must Be in Good Condition The ID can't be torn or appeared altered in any way. Furthermore, the text and picture should be clear. The Text Must Be in English The text on your photo ID needs to be written in English. Examples of Acceptable and Unacceptable SAT IDs Here are some examples of IDs you can and can’t use for the SAT: Acceptable SAT ID Government-issued driver’s license Government-issued ID card Official school ID from the school you currently attend Government-issued passport Government-issued military or national identification card Talent Search Identification Forms (only allowed for 8th grade and below) SAT Student ID Form (must be prepared by the school you currently attend, or a notary if you’re homeschooled) Unacceptable SAT ID Credit card or debit card, even if it has a photograph Birth certificate Social Security card Employee ID card Any temporary ID card Missing Child (â€Å"ChildFind†) ID card Any document that is torn, scuffed, or otherwise damaged Any document that appears tampered with or digitally altered Any document that doesn’t meet the requirements Don't try to show your debit or credit card as your SAT ID. What If You Don’t Have Acceptable SAT Photo ID? If you don’t have an acceptable SAT photo ID, you can use the Student ID Form. A current photo must be attached to the form in the area indicated before the form is authenticated. The form will be used to verify your identity like a photo ID. You can only use this form if you’re testing in the US and under 21 years of age. If you need to use the Student ID Form, talk to your counselor or any school official who can help you. The form must be copied on school stationery. Also, you'll need a signature from a school official and a school seal for the form to be valid. If you're homeschooled, the form must be notarized and signed by an official notary. All of the SAT ID requirements apply to the Student ID Form. The photo you use on your ID form must match the photo on your Admission Ticket and your appearance on test day. You must bring the original Student ID Form to be admitted to the test center. The Name on Your ID Must Match the Name on Your Ticket The name on your photo ID must completely match the name on your Admission Ticket. When you’re registering, make sure you enter your name exactly how it appears on your ID. Don’t use a nickname or shortened version of your name. Middle names and initials are optional; however, if they’re provided, the middle initial must exactly match the first letter of your middle name on your ID. If you register with the wrong name, you can change it free of charge. Contact the College Board to do so. You'll only have until 8:00 PM EST on the Monday before the test to make any changes. Keep Your ID on You at All Times On test day, your ID will be checked multiple times. Make sure you have it with you from the moment you arrive at the test center. Typically, your ID will be checked when you first arrive. Then, you’ll have to show your ID before you enter the room where you’ll take your test. And when you return to the room after breaks, you may have to show your ID again. Don’t put your ID in your backpack. Keep it on you. Wear something with pockets, and have your ID with you throughout test day. SAT ID Requirements: Final Reminders Check to make sure you have an acceptable photo ID when you register for the SAT. When you’re registering, use the name that’s on your photo ID. Don’t forget to bring your photo ID with you on test day. The night before the test, put everything you’re going to need in a backpack. Review what you have to bring. When you’re at the test center, keep your ID with you at all times. You’ll probably be asked to show your ID more than once. If you leave your testing room during break times, you may have to show your ID before you reenter. What's Next? Are you trying to decide when to take the SAT? Learn more about how to choose your test date. If you've never taken the SAT, find out what to expect on test day. Finally, calculate the SAT score you need for college. Disappointed with your scores? Want to improve your SAT score by 160 points?We've written a guide about the top 5 strategies you must be using to have a shot at improving your score. Download it for free now:

Written Summary and Analysis of Assigned Readings Research Paper

Written Summary and Analysis of Assigned Readings - Research Paper Example The samples are divided into three starting with those who started schooling in the 1920. The assumption is that each person went to school for 12 years before they started working. Therefore, years of complete schooling in this analysis runs from 1932 to the year 1969 because the study runs twenty years of complete schooling. This is a correct choice of the sample because the group have finished with their schooling and many are running different jobs or employments. The research relies heavily on existing literature and research as one source of its data. The census statistics proved very important for this research because from it the researchers established a series of unrestricted earning-schooling model from sub samples drawn from it. Such census included the 1980 census, 1960, 1950, and 1940. Other data were obtained from the US office of education, which publishes a summary of the characteristics of the public schools system in each state. From state personal income, the study obtained average personal income per capita data used to indicate family background. In addition, statistical abstract of the US numbers 66, 75, and 85 provided data on median education of the parent’s generation. The main findings of this research were contrary to many other researches. Apparently, the research found out that there exist a positive relationship between quality of schooling and earnings. That is, school quality has an important effect on labour market performance but has no effect on standardised achievement tests. Therefore, labour market is a good yardstick of measuring the performance of education systems. I learnt some new information that the old system in the US required students to be in school for twelve years to start working unlike today when one can start earning quite early. Additionally, I was able to compare the earlier average pays of teachers with the current rates in the

Strategic Plan Developement Paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Strategic Plan Developement Paper - Essay Example For Riordan, their success as a leading manufacturing company has only been because of their successful sales and marketing strategies which were also responsible for preserving excellent customer associations. Riordan also realizes the fact that the company needs to redefine and redeem itself along with the time in order to progress consistently and reach the new horizons while taking the business to the subsequent height so as to remain competitive and spirited. Therefore, it becomes imperative for Riordan Manufacturing Company’s top level management to devise a new strategic plan for bring extremely important developments which may guarantee Riordan the rank they have endeavored to attain. This is also because of the fact that most of the modern day entrepreneurs and business managers are often so anxious with instantaneous subjects that they temporarily forget their ultimate objectives unintentionally. My development of Strategic plan for Riordan Manufacturing Company will revolve around the broader future vision2 of the company itself. This vision circles around producing the final products at optimum costs while focusing upon the company’s future, maintaining excellent long term customer oriented relationships, maximizing employees’ utility while incorporating employee-friendly policies, maintaining environment friendly activities while growing business’ prospects, and complimenting the quality related issues in accordance with international standards. Since Riordan is not the only company which produces molding materials made off plastic, there always remains a chance of fearsome competition in the market. However, this leads to the fact that correctly identifying and capturing of market opportunities may bring more success for the company. While having factory facilities placed in San Jose, California, Albany, Georgia, Pontiac, Michigan, and Hang Zhou in China3, Riordan has certainly found new markets around the world. Emerging

History On The Syrian Uprising Politics Essay

History On The Syrian Uprising Politics Essay When reviewing the information on Syrian Uprising it is apparent that each source of media reports in a different way. As shown by one mass media source might not give all of the facts on the war. A second and third source will have two different hypotheses. Now the report done by USA today gives a different point of view on the same topic, the article paints the picture of the terrorist being the good guys or the criminals in this case, the rebels are they the same or different? This all depends on the media and propaganda. The Syrian civil war, also referred to as the Syrian uprising, is an ongoing armed conflict in Syria between forces loyal to the Baath Party government and those seeking to oust it. The conflict began on 15 March 2011 with nationwide demonstrations as part of the wider protest movement known as the Arab Spring. Protesters demanded the end to nearly five decades of Baath Party rule, as well as the resignation of President Bashar al-Assad. As you can see from the evidence shown in the brief statement that the same group is shown as the Opposition party or the terrorist, however there is room for an optional on this also with the historical facts. To find out the Arab point of view, on the thesis topic hereunder, you got to watch Al-Jazeera News Channel, as it is the best Arab News Channel that covers the Syrian Civil War/ Uprising. Also, it has covered all previous Arab revolution against their tyrant rulers, a period known as Arab Spring, which erupted initially in Tunisia, a couple years ago, then moved to neighboring country, Egypt, followed by neighboring Libya, then Yemen, while it is still going on in Syria. To emphasize these ideas, please refer to a weekly debate program called Opposite Directions that covers various theme. The last program related to the thesis topic broadcasted a couple weeks ago, which hosted by a well known Arab commentator, Faisal Al-Qassem., whereby two opponent individuals were interviewed, a journalist that is pro the Syrian government, and a representative from the Opposition Party, known as Free Syrian Army. The Program was highly thrilling and influential upon watchers as it covers a very h ot current issue that arouse the feelings of millions of people, and human rights organizations around the world. In iorder for the outsiders to understand the discussion theme, I should demonstrate a brief history of the current ruling party of Syria. Syria is an Arab State located in the highest conflict area in the Middle East, probably for the whole world, as it has direct borders to Israel, in an area; called Golan Heights. This strategic area was seized by Israel during the 1967 War, in which Israel succeeded in occupying the remaining of Palestine, which now known as West Bank, Sinea Desert from Egypt, and Golan Height from Syrian territory. Since that date, and this heavy butterfly defeat; Syria and other Arab States in the surrounding region become unstable, and angry demonstrations erupted in these countries demanding revenge and out setting the dictatorship and so called traitor leaders. Looking at the remaining facts of how and why this happen In Egypt, president Jamal Abdul Nasser admitted his full responsibility about the humiliating defeat, Announcing is resignationà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ However, the Egyptian backed by most Arab people went into massive demonstrations, requesting the return of Nasser to Power, and resignation of his assistance generals, accusing them of the cause of the defeat. In Jordan, dominated by Palestinian origin people announced their revolution against Israel establishing a movement called Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), led by late Yasser Arafat, who become the symbol for the Palestinian cause, who was finally died while besieged in his headquarter in Ram Allah, with allegations still going on, that Israel mainly Sharun, the Ex PM of Israel has poisoned him with Bolton poison material. PLO achieves the first victory against Israel in 1968, with assistance of Jordanian Artilleries, in an Al-Karamah War. Although the war was on small scale but it raised the morals of the Palestinians and Arab people, so more people and fighters join PLO, and become a dominating force in Jordan that threaten the authority and power of its King, late Hussein bin Talal. An internal clash and fierce fight erupted between PLO and Jordan, ended with an Agreement signed in Cairo 1970, in which PLO fighters moved to South Lebanon to start a new era of fight for freedom against Israeli aggression. Now, going back to Syria, which is the main theme of my thesisà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ During the aforesaid clash, the Syrian Army crossed the border of Jordan in an attempt to assist the Palestinian revolution; an opportunity that the Minister of Defense Hafez Al-Assad has seized to take hold of the power, and made a cope announcing himself as new President, establishing Baath Party, with main ministers and VIP positions are held by people from his sect. Syria, like most other Arab states is composed of ethnic groups, Alaweya who are part of Shiite Muslim comprised 12% of the population, while Sunni comprised three quarter off the population, with other minorities from Christian, Kurds etcà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ Thereby, 12% is ruling the majority of the people by suppression, force, corruption which was the seeds for the uprising we are witnessing nowadays Hafez Al-Assad died in 2,000 and was succeeded by his son, the current president Bashar Al-Assad. Bashar attempted to implement political reform in the country, However, al-Assad is widely regarded to have been unsuccessful in implementing democratic change, with a 2010 report from Human Rights Watch stating that he had failed to improve the state of human rights since taking power ten years prior. All other political parties have remained banned, thereby making Syria a one-party state without free elections. In terms of socioeconomic situation, although Syria owns huge natural resources, factories, agriculture, oil etc; the majority of people mainly in the outskirts of the main cities like Damascus, Aleppo, Homs, Darrah, Dir AlZoor, Hamah live in poverty, deprived from freedom for election and welfareTherefore the uprising has erupted and still undergoing in Syria. Now, going back to the Program Opposite Directions or Face to Face, the journalist that was pro the government claimed, as Syrian regime is announcing daily in the Media, that those protesters are terrorist gangs related to Islamic Al-Qaeda extremists, and they are paid by neutral Arab/ Islamic countries like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Turkey that they are seeking peace with Israel, while Syria backed by Iran, Russia and China, is in the front fire line with Israel.. The other commentator representing the Opposition Party, denied totally such allegations, and asserting that the Uprising has started by peaceful demonstrations by poor people away from the major cities, that were demanding freedom, equality, welfare, which are just basic demands and basic right that must be granted for the people all over the world. Then, after using fire arms and artilleries to suppress or quell the demonstrators, they were forced to use the arms and fight the Syrian Army They have created a new army called Free Syrian Army comprised of veteran soldiers and military high rank staff that dissented from the legal Syrian Army The Program duration is one hour, which includes two periods of interruption for advertisements that are irrelevant to this hot topic being rallied. From my opinion, there is no need for such interruptions as will make the watchers lose interest, especially when one of commentator was not given the chance to express his ideas extensively and in a comprehensive way. Also, the host, although he is very experienced and skilled in presenting such programs, most of the time was pro one of the parties that is the opposition side, in an unbiased way, which definitely will influence the ideas and concepts that will be inferred or contemplated by the watchers. It will be much better to leave each party clarify his point of view. On the other hand, there are numerous programs and articles that had been published or announced in the US media including TV News channels, magazines, newspapers etc. For the sake of comparison with the aforesaid AlJazeera Arab News Channel Program, I will refer to a comprehensive article published in the CNN website, called Syria: Understanding the unrest edited Arwa Damon and Richard Roth, CNN The article does not touch on the history or the facts of the real issues that has lead to such uprising. It covers general issues including past inhuman massacre committed by previous late president of Syria, Hafez Al-Assad, father of Bashar the current president, in 1982 in Hama city, in which over 20,000 were killed. However this is a reference to an isolated incidence that is cant be compared to the current massive military violence against civil Syrian people in almost all of the cities and towns in the country. The other main point demonstrated in the said article, that reveals the real American point of view about the whole issue is related to domination, as the article clearly refers to the support the Syrian regime is receiving from two main powers in the world that are : Russia and China. Over history it is known that Syria is supported in terms of military, diplomacy and economy by Russia. And definitely, Russia or China have strategic interests in Syria; as if they lose their domination over the country they will lose their last stronghold in the Middle East; exactly in a similar way that has recently occurred in Libya; for which country was dominated by NATO forces, mainly France; as almost oil and 50% of projects are or will be allocated to France and other NATO countries.. Also, the topic refers to other regional countries that have a role in the Syrian issue, mainly Turkey, and Saudi Arabiaà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ Turkey is an important trading partner, but its relationship with Syria appears to have cooled. From my point of view, Turkey will have a great role in the crisis if it either interferes by military forces, or just by packing the rebels mainly the Free Syrian Army; which will be a great help for the protesters and opponent forces. In early August, Saudi Arabias King Abdullah condemned the crackdown on anti-government protesters, saying there was no justification for the bloodshed. While it is noteworthy that Saudi Arabia has openly criticized Syria, it is not surprising. Saudi Arabia is wary of Irans influence in the region and Syria is Irans closest ally there. From my point of view the role of other Arab major countries like Egypt, and Qatar have to be taken into consideration, for Egypt inference by force will create an unbalance for the benefit of the opposition. While Qatar economic aid for the opponents will be a high significant factor in the whole equation of force balance. Is social media still playing a part in the uprising? Is it likely to have a decisive role in the final outcome? Its huge. Its not the same as we saw in Egypt, which has been labeled a Facebook revolution because of the role of social networking sites. Syria is the YouTube revolution. If activists werent posting videos to YouTube, we would have almost no window into what appears to be happening in Syria. Will it be decisive? Yes, absolutely. The reason why people have been able to have such a strong debate about crimes against humanity, about abuses, about the atrocities allegedly committed is because weve had these images on hand. As I have demonstrated a brief history of the area and conflict in the ME region, I believe the main and most complicated issue that is the cause of all such uprising or what so called Arab Spring era, is the Palestinian Cause. Although I am of Palestinian origin, but Ive never lived or seen my country Palestin, I was born and raised in Saudi Arabia, and the closest point I reach was Jordan and Egypt. Definitely, nobody will ever forget ones heritage, descendants, ancestors, homeland as those give the value of ones existence in life. But by looking of high toll of death on a daily basis in Syria, on the average 100 people die every day, and civilian people are bombarded by artilleries and airplanes , from their own army that they build by their blood, money, and efforts.. All what I can say that it is unfair, and all the world should interfere somehow to solve the problem Finally, to recap, I repeat that the Palestinian issue is the cause of all this unrest in the area, probably the whole world. It is the cause that provokes uprising and unrest in the whole world It is the cause that the Islamic extremists or fundamentalists use to justify their terrorism upon innocent American Civilians. It is this mentality that doesnt accept dialogue and brainstorming with confronting ideas, and it always it is my way or the high wayà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ Such kind of people are the main blockade to peace, freedom and amenityà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦I dont believe that conflicts and violence will lead us to anything, it will take us to nowhere, to the contrary they provoke hatred, poverty, resentment, and illiteracy, with desperation and no hope for the future.. I do believe that all people are descended from one Father, Adam; and one Mother; Eve so we all are brothers in humanity, and should learn how to love each other and live in tranquility, brotherhood and peaceà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ . In enclosing this should show that no everyone shares the same point of view on one sub ject matter, not all view points are heard or seen. The use of history and fact to give a point of view is to learn from the mistakes made in the past have a way of coming back into play.

Media’s Portraits of Guns and Violence Essay

Discuss the connection between the portrayal of guns, violence, and victims and the crime-fighting policies that are implied in these portrayals. What criminal justice policies are encouraged by the above portraits and which ones are discouraged? The media distorts the public’s view of violence, guns, and victims, and helps shape the criminal justice policies by doing so. Their portrayal of guns, violence, and victims is of law enforcement or private citizens fighting a constant war against crime, usually with an overabundance of violence from both the perpetrators and the crime fighters. One example of the violence that the media shows is how many of the crimes committed have guns involved. The media makes it seem like it is easy to get a gun, that all criminals have one, and that all citizens need one for protection. â€Å"Whoever has the biggest gun wins†. Then they show the crime fighter coming after the criminal very aggressively, and they violently battle it out. The more the media sensationalizes gun violence, and keeps it fresh in the viewer’s minds, the more the public will believe it is the biggest problem in crime control, whether it is true or not, and public opinion will lead to many debates over the issue of gun control, and other policies that could lessen violence. These media portrayals make it seem ok for private citizens to take the law into their own hands, even violently, as long as they stop the â€Å"bad guy†. A current media example of this is the television show â€Å"Arrow†. The Arrow would be a rogue, although he was never a cop. Criminal Justice policies that discourage these media portraits are gun buy-back programs stricter gun laws, and harsher sentencing for those caught with unlawful guns.

Benefits of chocolate-revised

How can something so good be so bad? This was a question that I often asked myself while devouring the candy and chocolate I squirreled away in my â€Å"special drawer. † I grew up in a household that has always been health conscious. My mother was one of those exercise and natural food fiends who believed that popcorn was the only acceptable â€Å"junk food. † Every Halloween she would remind us that she was letting us go out to trick or treat for tradition's sake. She would then go into what I secretly called the â€Å"evil candy lecture†.(Think Willy Wonka's dad in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. ) She would frighten us with stories of kids having their teeth fall out after eating candy. This lecture was repeated at Easter even as our grandparents handed us huge chocolate bunnies and chocolate eggs. As we grew older and wiser to the myth of the falling teeth, she changed tactics and warned us about zits and fat. We wouldn't want to look like a pimple that g rew a face now, would we? She was pretty much the same with the kids I went home with who, after raiding the refrigerator for chocolate would turn up empty handed.Mom would always chide us saying: â€Å"You guys already have so much energy that you can't even sit still. What would you want more sugar for? † To me, chocolate is that â€Å"secret sin† that a lot of people hide within the very cold depths of their refrigerators. People sneak bites of that luscious brown concoction, savoring its sweetness that varies from the dark and bittersweet to the hybrid milk chocolate like it was something so illegal. The many warnings against indulging in the often foil-wrapped sweet treat are unending.The dentist would warn against the extra acid needed to dissolve left over chocolate in the mouth that therefore result into cavities. Nutritionists and dietitians use the magic â€Å"C-word† or calories when preaching against the evils of chocolate consumption. The media incl uding television, the movies or advertising also add to the popular concerns about chocolate intake. Often portrayed, the scene has become familiar – a kid eating chocolate and candy normally is shown sporting bad teeth or is a fat slob with chocolate stains all over his hands and shirt.The svelte and gorgeous ladies on daytime shows referring to chocolate, cake and ice cream as â€Å"guilty† things. Chocolate's high levels of sugar, fat and calories have been blamed for a multitude of bad things from diabetes, acne, to rapidly and uncontrollably expanding waistlines. Yet it might surprise people to know that chocolate does have a good side to it. Minus the sugar and calories, it can almost qualify as a health food. â€Å"The botanical name for the cacao – or cocoa – bean is Theobroma, meaning Food Of The Gods. † (â€Å"Charlie's Chocolate Fact-Ory; SOME,† 2005, p. 24)Cocoa beans are the source of chocolate. While no chocolate formula is ali ke, it is an accepted fact that cocoa beans from which chocolate is derived from is rich in flavonoids or plant chemicals which have polyphenol which exhibits anti-oxidant properties (Isham, 2007. p. 27 ). While polyphenol is also present in many fruits, vegetables, tea and red wine, some people may say that it is easier to be â€Å"healthy† when you actually like the food you are eating. (â€Å"More Friendly News†¦Ã¢â‚¬  1993) Between broccoli and a Snickers bar†¦ is this really a choice?Recent studies have also shown that flavonoids protect the heart from the damaging effects of unstable oxygen compounds, which can damage blood vessels. A study conducted in Germany and published in the Journal of the American Medical Association suggests that the intake of dark chocolate could lower blood pressure. Similar studies have also shown that the flavonoids found in cocoa have anti-blood clotting properties and could decrease the level of low-density lipoproteins, other wise known as bad cholesterol. (Taubert, Roesen, et. al. 2007)The two-year study, which was conducted at a primary care clinic in Germany from 2005 to 2006, tested adults with mild untreated hypertension. Half of the test subjects where given polyphenol-rich dark chocolate bars while half where given white chocolate, which is mainly made up of cocoa butter. Results indicated no change from the blood pressure of the white chocolate eating group while an average drop of 5 points of systolic pressure and 2 points of diastolic pressure was monitored from the dark-chocolate group within two weeks. (Taubert, 2007)So while eating dark chocolate could be beneficial to our health, what about the supposed tooth cavities it brings? It has after all been widely believed that the acid the mouth needed to produce to â€Å"clean† the chocolate off teeth damages tooth enamel and causes decay. According to research done by the Forsyth Dental Center in Boston Massachusetts, â€Å"normal consu mption of milk chocolates, especially at meals† had no direct connection in causing cavities since chocolate by itself has the ability to â€Å"offset the acid-producing potential† of its sugar content.(â€Å"Myths and Facts†) What about the supposed correlation between chocolates and acne? Much to the delight of chocolate lovers, independent studies done at the University of Pennsylvania and the U. S. Naval Academy have categorically disproved this myth. There is also no truth that chocolate lovers take in too much caffeine. An ounce of milk chocolate only contains 6 mg. of caffeine, not much more than what is found in a cup of decaffeinated coffee. The only fat in plain chocolate comes from cocoa butter, which is produced when the roasted cocoa seeds are pressed.Comparing cocoa butter fat with other fats in food, researchers have discovered that despite its total saturated fat content, cocoa butter does not raise levels of bad cholesterol such as other kids of fat did. Such was the result of a study conducted by Dr. Margo Denke and Dr. Scott M. Grundy as published in the December 1991 issue of The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. (â€Å"More ‘Friendly' News About Chocolate And Beef,† 1992). Rather than be harmful, cocoa butter is good given its high stearic acid content, which is cholesterol neutral.(Ross, 2001) Even chocolate milk is better than just plain milk as it has been proven to contain more zinc, potassium, niacin and riboflavin than plain whole milk. (Roesel & Overly) Experts say that to get the best possible antioxidant benefits, one should prefer dark chocolates and not those mixed with milk as it appears that the milk solids deter the absorption of antioxidants. (Taubert, 2007) There is also that persistent belief that some component or chemical part of chocolates make them addictive.Leah Porter, vice president of scientific affairs for the Chocolate Manufacturers Association in Vienna, believes that the s upposed addiction is merely craving caused by the taste and smell of chocolate. â€Å"Chocolate's appeal is due to aroma, flavor and creaminess, not any addictive properties,† says Ms. Porter, who holds a doctorate in plant sciences. â€Å"If it's addictive, then other foods are addictive. † (â€Å"Chocolate's Dark Little Secret;,† 2005, p. B01) Chocolate also contains phenylethylamine, a chemical that increases in our brains that gives us a feeling of well-being and euphoria that is similar to the feeling of being in love.(â€Å"‘Eating Chocolate Makes You,† 2006, p. 30) In addition to this, it also stimulates hormones that deaden â€Å"pain† areas making it an effective and non-medicated answer to headaches (Daly & Fredholm, 2004, p. 1) Given this, it is no wonder that chocolate is among the most common â€Å"comfort† foods that people crave for especially in times when they are down and emotionally distressed. Despite these findings , critics abound against the touted health benefits of chocolate. Many are skeptical about these so-called benefits and view pro-chocolate studies as highly biased since these were commissioned by the chocolate manufacturers themselves.Some researchers question the supposed benefits of flavonoids saying that sufficient tests in a controlled environment have not been done (Tanner, 2003). Add to this the fact that most tests done are through chocolate manufacturing industry funded research damages their findings' credibility. John W. Erdman, a professor of food science and human nutrition at the University of Illinois concurs with this problem but notes that it is a â€Å"necessary evil† since research would be very difficult to conduct if it relied entirely on independent funding (Schmidt, 2002).Erdman further adds that most of the time the Food and Drug Administration only conducts tests after preliminary research has been done. He adds that one positive way to look at things is that at least, it may not be such a bad thing that companies are investigating the nutritional value of their products. (Schmidt, 2002)ReferencesCharlie's Chocolate Fact-Ory; SOME TASTY FACTS ON OUR FAVOURITE SNACK 2ozs Can Kill a Dog Was Once a Medicine 400 Beans Make 1lb It Speeds Heartbeat. (2005, July 17). The People (London, England), p. 24. Chocolate's Dark Little Secret; What's Good and What's Not about Tasty Treat. (2005, March 22).The Washington Times, p. B01. Daly, J. W. , & Fredholm, B. B. (2004). 1 Mechanisms of Action of Caffeine on the Nervous System. In Coffee, Tea, Chocolate, and the Brain, Nehlig, A. (Ed. ) (pp. 1-11). Boca Raton, FL: Routledge. Retrieved October 9, 2007 from http://www. questia. com/read/108551912 ‘Eating Chocolate Makes You Feel Good'. (2006, December 19). South Wales Echo (Cardiff, Wales), p. 30. Isham, A. (2007) â€Å"Eat (More) Chocolate –Lose Weight (Anyway)† The Chocoholic's Survival Guide and Practical Handbook. Pando ra McShannon Press. â€Å"More ‘Friendly' News About Chocolate And Beef† (1992) Southwestern Medical Center for Human Nutrition. (Dallas, Texas).Retrieved from Southwestern Medical Center for Human Nutrition database: http://www8. utsouthwestern. edu/utsw/cda/dept27717/files/48295. html.â€Å"Myths and Facts. † Chocolate Chocolate Chocolate Company. Retrieved October 8, 2007 from Chocolate Chocolate Company website: http://www. chocolatechocolate. com/mythfact. htm.Nehlig, A. (Ed. ). (2004). Coffee, Tea, Chocolate, and the Brain. Boca Raton, FL: Routledge. Ross, J. (2001 March), â€Å"Cocoa and Chocolate as Functional Foods† Natural Health Products Technology Cluster. Retrieved from htttp://www. uoguelph. ca/nhptc/Jessica1. html.Roesel, K., Overly, B. â€Å"All About Chocolate† Kentucky State University Cooperative Extension Program Retrieved from http://ces. ca. uky. edu/bourbon/fcs/all_about_chocolate. htm.Schmidt, P. (2002) â€Å"Chocolate's Pot ential Health Benefits – and its Effect on Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Patients. † ImmuneSupport. com. Retrieved from ImmuneSupport databse: http://www. immunesupport. com/library/showarticle. cfm/ID/3464/ Tanner, L. ( 2003 August 27)†Studies Show Light, Dark Sides of Milk, Dark Chocolate. † USA Today. USA Today. com. Retrieved October 9, 2007 from http://www. usatoday. com/news/health/2003-08-27-dark-chocolate_x.htm.Taubert, D. (2007 July 3) Consumption Of Small Amounts Of Dark Chocolate Associated With Reduction In Blood Pressure. Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA). Retrieved from JAMA database: http://pubs. ama-assn. org/media/2007j/0703. dtl#1 Taubert, D. Roesen, R. Lehman, C. Jung, N. Schomig, E. (2007) â€Å"Effects of Low Habitual Cocoa Intake on Blood Pressure and Bioactive Nitric Oxide: A Randomized Controlled Trial. † Journal of American Medical Association Vol. 298 No. 1. pp 49-60 Retrieved October 9, 2007 from JAMA database: h ttp://jama. ama-assn. org/cgi/content/abstract/298/1/49.