The puritan periods and age of classicism Essay Example

The puritan periods and age of classicism Essay Former presidents and officers of the ABACAS, (mention their names), my fellow alumni from different batches , guests, ladies and gentlemen, a pleasant evening .. Were gathered here tonight as usual to annually celebrate this reunion of great significance, our BACH grand alumni global reunion. Binnacle Catholic High School, BACH, rings a bell in our hearts, it brings us back to wonderful memories as cost say that high school days are the best, perfect, exciting days of our lives. BACH was our very foundation where we got educated and trained, Many years have gone by since we all graduated from BACH, we lost touch, we became distant, there has been transition in our lives since then. We had varied lives: we faced challenges , experienced heartbreaks ,reaped rewards. _our Journey may not be easy But we all made it here tonight , thankful for the role BACH has played in our development. Our alma mater gave us a special sense of belonging. Our directors, school heads and teachers, whether still living or not, touched our lives and gave us gifts which we carry to the end of our lives. Let us be thankful again for this gathering , rekindle high school memories, renew our friendships, and continue to support our alma mater in our own way, for this Is the legacy that the founders of our school and the great director , the late FRR. Leo Benzene left us to fulfill. We will write a custom essay sample on The puritan periods and age of classicism specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on The puritan periods and age of classicism specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on The puritan periods and age of classicism specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer I wont keep you long with a lengthy speech because we need to spend more time to enjoy this occasion. Let us get reacquainted and share our stories Let us stay forever young so that our horizon still looms ahead, beckoning tomorrows of fulfillment and greater Joy and most of all , we shall meet again next year, and In the ensuing years to come.

Business Writing Training Guidelines for Performance Appraisals

Business Writing Training Guidelines for Performance Appraisals Performance appraisals play an important role in motivating your employees and in encouragingthem to work to the best of their abilities. Appraisals provide an opportunity to shine for many, and anopportunityto reflect for others. Business writing training guidelines assist the difficult task for bothbusiness owners and managers to evaluate employee performance against quantifiable Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). Business writing training guidelines will also help individuals better document their achievements during their annual performance review. Writing a performance appraisal report is often cumbersome. Many companies use pre-written templates to prepare such appraisals, and this regimented approach is not always effective. Business writing trainingprovidesmanagers the business writing skillsto effectivelyprovide employees more data regarding their performance. Similarly, the directorship in many businesses requires in-depth employee performance analysis before they make any decision regarding payroll and promotion. hbspt.cta._relativeUrls=true;hbspt.cta.load(41482, '68b80d4a-2e12-4e12-a6e9-b258b38b08c3', {}); Despite its apparent complexities, writing performance appraisals is a fairly easy task. Here’s a look at fourbusiness writing training guidelines to help bothmanagers and individual employees write relevant and accurate performance appraisal reports. Keep the Audience in Mind Appraisal reports are written for the senior management in your organization. Put yourself in your manager’s position and consider: What does your boss want in this appraisal report? What good will this information do forhim or her? How will the report help in assessing the employee’s performance? The first step towards drafting an effective performance appraisal report is to keep your target audience in mind. There’s a famous business clichà © that says, â€Å"what counts is what'scounted†. This should be your focus. Analyze all indices and factors that seem relevant for the employee appraisal. Be Neutral Once you know who your target audience is, the next step is to maintain a certain level of neutrality in the performance appraisal. It is very easy to sway off course when preparing or filling out the appraisal report. As an employee, you need to address all the core areas of interest to your boss on a timely basis. Do this before they introduce any ancillary content to the performance appraisal report. As a manager, you need to share with your employees all the information and performance metrics against which employee productivity will be measured. Keep Track of All Achievements As a manager, you need to create an electronic record for your employees' achievementsthroughout the year. The same rule applies to employees as well. Scan your email for any recommendations or stand-out recognition you have received. Such exercises are are helpful, but consistent tracking is better. The best approach is to create a tracking documentthat lists all your achievements as they occur. These achievements should be in line with the performance indices used in your appraisal report. Whenever you receiveany recognitionemail or acknowledgement for your hard work, add it to your tracking document. This will provide accuracy and reliability to your performance appraisal report and help you assemble accurate facts. Mind Your Language Performance appraisal reports are very specific in nature. They determineincrements to your salary, bonuses, perks or even a better position. Therefore, it is important that you use the right tone, with accurate sentences and specific verbs to describe your performance. Use evocative words that specificallysummarize your achievements. Instead of relying on long and unending sentences, use short and precise words and phrases. Avoid businessclichà ©s that don't really mean anything specific, such as "passionate marketer" or "committed team member." Instead, be specific about your actual accomplishments. To learn more on how to improve business writing for your employees, downloadâ€Å"Four Steps to Improve Your Team’s Business Writing Skills.†

Sustainablity Marketing Plan -- 3M Corporation Speech or Presentation

Sustainablity Marketing Plan -- 3M Corporation - Speech or Presentation Example Currently, it is one of the premier manufacturing corporations. The corporation manufactures diversified products including more than 60000 different products which are observed to dominate in their respective markets. The corporation operates with 81 manufacturing sites in 28 states in the United States of America. 3M operates in more than 133 manufacturing and converting facilities in over 60 nations globally (3M Company, â€Å"Inspired innovation†). The corporation is engaged in various technology oriented segments. It manufactures products for wide-range of industries such as transportation, healthcare, safety, security and protection services, consumer and office, displays and graphics as well as electro and communication businesses. In addition to this, the corporation sells its products through various channels such as through the involvements of distributors, wholesalers, retailers, dealers, as well as directly to the costumers nationally and internationally across the world (Reuters, â€Å"Profile: 3M Co (MMM)†). Thesis Statement The discussion intends to critically identify the initiatives of 3M Corporation for ensuring sustainable growth and economic progress. It also intends to provide sustainable marketing plan for the corporation keeping in consideration the integral aspects such as promotion. Marketing Mission and Corporate Sustainability 3M Corporation is a global manufacturer and technology innovator successfully operating across the world primarily in six different operation segments. The corporation’s prime mission is to earn customer loyalty and respect by effectively differentiating it from its competitors. Moreover, the company is determined to operate with uncompromising authenticity and integrity in its all operational activities. It also aims at satisfy diverse customers with innovative technologies and superior quality products and services. Furthermore, it intends to place deep respects for its investors and provi de them high and attractive returns through sustainable and global growth. The corporation in relation to its mission concentrates on continuous development of social, physical and economic environment around the world. Least but not last, the company intends to develop employees skills and leadership qualities through its continuous initiatives (3M Company, â€Å"Sustaining Future†). The corporation’s sustainability strategies are primarily focused on customers’ satisfaction and its overall commercial success within social, economic and environmental values and frameworks. Its strategies are directed towards promoting healthy environment and safety measures at its different locations worldwide. The corporation’s sustainability strategies also emphasize on pollution prevention endeavors through continuous development of new and efficient technologies and products to be offered to its wide range of customers. As a part of its sustainability strategies its focuses on acquiring and retaining a pool of competent and skilled workforce as

William Hill portfolio diligence Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 7500 words - 1

William Hill portfolio diligence - Essay Example Purpose, findings, and research questions that will guide the study are generated from the shareholders’ effects and the motives for acquisition. The data for this study will be the secondary data from Journal of Financial Economics. In the background study, I analyse the reasons for William Hill’s takeover and stipulate the post-takeover performance of the company. Motives for acquisition of Stanley Leisure and shareholders’ value are critiqued in the following project. In this project, I have used the capital assets pricing model (CAPM) in methodological analysis and OLS Regression for data sources. I can resolve if William’s merger was worthwhile through liquidity-based explanations. Mergers and acquisitions involve the amalgamation of two or more firms or the purchase directed to current firm within the foreign country. This was established by Whiting (1976) that acquisitions are effected through capital transfer, use of marketing skills, and presence of skill for management to increase the efficiency of the companies concerned. The development of better information systems in the global trade can enable a company increase its level of performance and meet its customer needs better. I will discuss in detail the research questions that will assist William Hill in acquisition of Stanley Leisure; due diligence need by William Hill is to enable the shareholders with adequate concept of underlying William acquisition portfolio than the prevailing market allocation of betting services.

Theories of Philosophy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Theories of Philosophy - Essay Example In this theory, Hume proposes that some of the questions that philosophers asked did not have any absolute answers; meaning that they could not have a logical proof or be proved through reasoning only. Hume mentioned that either, the individual’s empirical experience of existence or their choice of axioms could influence the knowledge of reality. I perceive Hume’s theory help to make a construct of reality by establishing that since we cannot conclusively pinpoint a common stand on reality through reasoning, then there are factors that influences an individual’s perception of reality; that is experience and axioms. The philosophical concept of ethics draws a perspective of what is good or bad in the society in aid to help in drawing an understanding of disputes that encompass moral diversity. Philosophers have advanced various theories in an attempt to describe a morality. I think the Aristotelianism (Virtue ethics) is the best theory that helps describe moral ethics. It observes that a morally right action is one that a virtuous agent would do under the same circumstances. This means that the individual executing an act will do it in a virtuous manner. The Aristotle’s moral theory is the most appropriate because it is focused on promoting virtues irrespective of the prevailing circumstances. This theory is appropriate because it helps an individual point out some of the habits they ought to exhibit based on the need to be virtuous. In addition, in an attempt to be virtuous an individual endeavors to be the best they can be while also ensuring that they do not infringe on the rights of others. In other words, they execute every deed with virtue. Freedom encompasses the free will by people to do whatever they want. It entails the aspect of unpredictable future since there is the leeway to do whatever an individual wants. On the other hand, determinism observes that every event or deed in life can be predicted and it

The Singapore An Aging Population Economics Essay

The Singapore An Aging Population Economics Essay Ageing is the accumulation of physical, physiological and social changes in a person over time. It is a phenomenon that every individual is bound to experience. Therefore, it is only natural for one to hope to live in a society that respects, supports and caters to various needs of the elderly. Today, governments around the world are facing the tough challenge of providing adequate healthcare and housing for the elderly. Due to the possible ineffective allocation of funds or the lack of concern for its elderly citizens by the government, there is a possibility that a large proportion of the aged are neglected and are left scrounging for basic necessities while struggling with myriad health issues associated with age. Singapore currently has one of the fastest growing economies in the world. However, it also has an extremely low birth rate and an appallingly high rate of ageing. Approximately 10% of the population of 5 million is aged over 65. This figure will increase to about 25% by the year 2020. With such shocking statistics, many questions come to mind. A young man may worry about how he will find the means to support his elderly parents as well as his own family.   A woman close to retirement may be concerned about her future and wonder whether she would have to perform menial jobs to make ends meet. It is the duty of any government to give priority to the needs and demands of its citizens and take steps to address them. Thus, Singapores Government has to formulate policies that address the possible problems of an aging population and take preventive measures to counter the same. Stakeholders Involved Before attempting to solve the problems of Singapores aging population, it is critical to identify the stakeholders involved. By studying the effects of an ageing population on these stakeholders, the potentially negative effects of this issue can be mitigated, and future problems can be anticipated. Especially with the ever-changing social demographics and economic conditions, the inter-connectedness of the pressure which an aging population would exert on our country as a whole should not be underestimated, especially during the phase when identified secondary social stakeholders transit to primary social stakeholders. Primary stakeholders include: 1) Senior citizens Senior citizens are the very group of people to experience the most impact as their well-being is at stake. General concerns for these group of stakeholders include: Would the future generations be able to support the increasing proportion of senior citizens? Are infrastructure and public services elderly-friendly? Will the Singapore Government introduce more schemes and policies aimed at improving the situation? 2) Working Singaporeans As an ageing population increases demand for healthcare and other services, the financial pressure on Singaporeans rises too as the taxes they contribute to support these services increases. This decreases the income they bring home and directly affects their spending power. 3) Singapore Government With a shrinking workforce, a drop in the economic growth rate is inevitable. The government is responsible for the introduction of suitable policies to contain the situation. Besides, the government has to ensure that Singaporeans adopt an optimistic view on the matter and create nation-wide awareness on the impacts of an ageing population. Secondary stakeholders include: 1) Future generations Currently, the implications of an ageing population have yet to fully present themselves and the Singapore Government is absorbing most of the effects at current situation. However, if statistical studies prove right and the proportion of senior citizens to working Singaporeans increases, the effects would be more severe and Singaporeans would have to share the burden of supporting the ageing population in later years. Therefore, our future generations will also face the same negative effects of the ageing population that current Singaporeans face. 2) Businesses As Singapores population is growing older, there will be a relatively fewer number of people in the working sector. Businesses and organisations will be affected by the lack of young and skilled workers. As a result, additional funds may have to be spent on trainings to help the older workers master new skills. Furthermore, due to higher taxes burden on households,   purchasing power of individuals will decrease significantly. This will eventually affect the growth of businesses. The secondary stakeholders neither directly affected nor involved in the problem. Future generations have yet to be affected by the problem of ageing. When the situation worsens in future, our descendants will have to support their elders and will also be affected by higher taxes. They will subsequently become primary stakeholders. As we can see, large sections of the society are affected by this issue and will continue to be affected by the continuous increase of ageing population. Hence, immediate steps have to be taken in order to minimize the damages caused by this issue. Figure 1 (insert) The Implications Of An Aging Population Singapore has one of the highest proportions of elderly citizens in the world, and second only to Japan in South East Asia. (Suan Ee Ong, 2010). http://www.singstat.gov.sg/pubn/reference/sif2012.pdf 1. Society The Declining Standards of an Individuals Health Research suggests that as individuals age, they are increasingly prone to numerous health risks. The risk of malnutrition heightens with age with 3 in 10 elderly at high risk. (http://www.asicluster3.com/blog_self/index.php?page=viewentryid=133)   As a person ages, problems like diabetes or parkinsons sets in, along with dietary restrictions. One can also expect an overall deteriorating quality of physical health. For instance, psychomotor skills deteriorate, resulting in stifled physical independence.   Osteoporosis, a disease in which causes the bones to become less dense affects large numbers of our elderly. Additionally, mental health starts deteriorating with the onset of illnesses like dementia and depression. As one ages, quality of health will undoubtedly follows a downward trend. Coupled with an increasing number of citizens aged 65 and above. this leads to a decrease in the standard of health over a period of time. This would in turn give rise to new industries and businesses revolving around health care, with niche specialisations in care for the aged. It is important for the society   to provide services that target the aged. Moreover, the World Health Organization (WHO) has stated that not all of   the aged will be in need of health care services if society helped them lead an active lifestyle. Therefore, the population growth forecasted in future years, urban economic countries will lack the appeal to attract immigrants. (Kresl, Peter Karl Letri, Daniele (2010)) Being a small country with low birth rate, Singapore may face some challenges in attracting foreign talent to our city in future. Therefore, our society may face difficulties in employing a sufficiently skilled workforce to maximise output. Effects On Future Generations As the population ages, there will be an increasing demand for goods and services in the healthcare sector. A governments duty is to serve its people, and society as a whole would expect basic health care services to be provided. Consequently, there will be   increased pressure on the government to provide for health care. Monetary costs would be incurred and would be passed on to society in the form of increased taxes. With the dismal birth rates we see today (1.22 births per woman in 2011, down from 1.83 in 1990), tax burdens on future generations (who will then become primary social stakeholders) will only increase as time goes by. (Department of Statistics Singapore. (2012)) There is an inverse relationship between the dependency ratio (percentage of the population who are too old or too young to work) and birth rate of a country. Naturally, an increasing dependency ratio can be attributed   to a declining birth rate.   If the birth rate continues to stagnate or drop, the dependency ratio would only increase at a faster rate in the future. This translates into a heavier burden on the working population to maintain economic growth and to provide for dependent citizens. The Reverence of The Silver Generation to Society It is evident that the elderly exert a major influence on our social fabric. They carry with them the cultures, traditions and values that make our country what it is today. The hard work and time that they put in to raise educated, motivated and refined citizens of this generation is the reason why our country has reached this level of success. As the saying goes, with time comes wisdom. Therefore, the silver generation is much revered, and as per asian cultures, due respect and care should be given to them. As the elderly before us have served the country by contributing to it in various aspects, Singapores government should have a sense of filial piety to them. Since the government is a primary social stakeholder involved in the issue of an ageing population, it has introduced many government initiatives to solve arising problems. Summing Up To handle the implications of an aging population, we should seek to improve elderly standards of living and encourage them to contribute to society even at an age past retirement. The government should also take up initiatives to help senior citizens fit in and continue to be part of the workforce even at a ripe old age. 2. Businesses Due to the rapid growth of an ageing population, there are certain issues that may arise. Productivity Issues In Organisations A large proportion of senior citizens in a population indicates a decline in size of a productive workforce.   According to the UNs latest biennial population forecast, the median age for all countries will rise from 29 to 38 years by 2050. (SOURCE) We may safely assume that the dependency ratio will increase dramatically over the next few decades. Organizations looking to expand productivity would be reluctant to hire older workers. Those following a profit maximising model opine that it would be more cost efficient to hire younger workers due to their higher productivity. Additionally, during periods of recession, more often than not, older workers are among the top few in the retrenchment list. However, this contrasts   the fact that older workers bring with them a plethora of experience and wisdom, which can only be gained over time.   Despite cost inefficiency, it is unfair to be against the notion of hiring of older workers. Singapores government foresaw these issues and implemented new legislations to curb age discrimination at the workplace. As of 1 Jan 2012, under the Retirement and Re-employment Act (RRA), the statutory retirement age was set at 62, and companies have to offer re-employment contracts to workers up to the age of 65. http://www.mom.gov.sg/employment-practices/employment-rights-conditions/retirement/Pages/retirement.aspx With these new initiatives, it can be seen that the government is indirectly engaging all business organisations through legislation. These businesses, which were once secondary social stakeholders, are now evolving into primary social stakeholders in this issue of an aging population. Increase In Demand For Health Care   Elderly-Specific Facilities Many countries, including Singapore, have been working towards providing better care, not just in clinics and hospitals, but also within the community and at home. To enhance accessibility for the elderly, the government has taken up many initiatives and projects to improve   living conditions for the elderly. For example, the Enhancement for Active Seniors (EASE) programme implemented by Singapore government introduced slip-resistant bathrooms and even installed grab bars within flats. Other projects include life upgradation, building   of   barrier-free features such as ramps and the levelling of steps . In order to provide a more accessible healthcare services, the Singapore government has given more emphasis on home and community-based services, which include the expansion of social rehabilitative care places . More subsidies have also been introduced to support the poor and those from middle-income families.    The growing ageing   population has resulted in the growing demand for facilities and the expansion of subsidies which is putting great pressure on government. Government spending on health care is estimated to increase even further in the future   as more money is required to support new initiatives and expansion of the existing initiatives. There is also a need to hire more health professionals, for which more resources and funds are required. As a result, the allocation of the budget towards healthcare is expected to rise as related spending would increase to about twice by 2030. http://www.asiaone.com/Business/News/My+Money/Story/A1Story20080627-73309.html 3. Government Government policies not only have a positive impact on the lives of the elderly, but may also have a negative impact on businesses. Business owners may feel restricted by such employment policies and may decide to move out of Singapore. They may also stop supporting the government in the elections . The government relies heavily on taxes from small and large businesses for its sources of revenue. If these businesses were to change location or move out of Singapore due to restrictive policies, revenues would fall. A drop in revenue would mean that the government has less to spend on other facilities for its people. Furthermore, relocation of businesses would result in widespread loss of local jobs. The result is a higher dependency ratio, higher unemployment rate, less revenue for the government and the slowing down of the economy. Thus, the government should ensure that any policy related to ageing does not anger or upset the sentiments of various businesses and should keep in mind what is at stake. Summing Up Let us consider the repercussive chain of effects of aging population. Firstly the number of people in the workforce would drop, with a corresponding increase in the dependency ratio. This translates into a drop in output /productivity of individual businesses and the economy as a whole. As Singapores GDP is very dependant on both our import/export sectors and consumerism this could cause Singapores economy to go into a slowdown. One might argue that there would be an increase in the growth due to the consumption of more healthcare. However the drops in productivity would be greater than the increase in consumption of healthcare. Eventually, there will be an increased burden on the current workforce to maintain economic growth. Finally, if nothing is done, a vicious cycle commences, and future generations would find it increasingly difficult to provide for the previous generations and support the economy. (Picture Singapores indicator of ageing) Actions Taken By Singapores Government Singapores government recognises that the increase in the ageing population will lead to several consequences that will affect all sections of society, as well as the economy of the country. Hence, in order to support the older population, the government has put in place various policies and introduced new   schemes. In 2004, the government set up the Committee on Aging Issues. This committee comprised of   private and government representatives who came together to discuss issues related to ageing.   The recommendations for solutions related to these issues were presented in a report and were passed for implementation. They aimed at enhancing employability, improving healthcare facilities, promoting active lifestyles and financial independence. The government also aims at establishing concrete facts about our population and conducts frequent surveys to gauge the physical and mental health of seniors. It also identifies areas to improve the wellbeing of its citizens. (Reference: http://app1.mcys.gov.sg/Portals/0/Topic/Issues/EDGD/Brief%20on%20Ageing%20Population%20(Public).pdf) 1. Housing As seen from Figure 1 (Singapore: Indicators of Ageing), the proportion of Singaporeans aged 65 and above will significantly rise in the coming years. Hence, there is a need for the government to introduce schemes that provide adequate housing that caters to the needs of elderly such as their health, mobility and security, which is of utmost importance. Some schemes that the government introduced were the Multi-Generation Flats in 1987 and Granny Flats in 1991. However, they were not very well received. A more successful initiative was the implementation of Project LIFE ( Lift Improvement and Facilities Enhancement for Elderly). (Reference: http://asiaforum.tsaofoundation.org/pdfDownloads/Day1/D1_plenary/plenarySession_1/Housing%20developments%20for%20ageing%20population%20in%20Spore%20-%20yap%20chin%20beng.pdf) This proposal aims at creating lifts in Housing Development Board (HDB) flats so that every floor is serviced, for the convenience of the elderly and the handicapped. The government expects complete adoption of this plan in all HDB flats by 2014. In addition, integrated studio apartments were also incorporated into each housing block and came with spaces for social and communal gatherings. In the year 2011, the government introduced the idea of barrier-free housing environments which involved the building of handicap ramps and pathways to facilitate easy movement of wheelchairs. Therefore, continuous modification of housing landscapes aims at meeting the needs of citizens and to provide a comfortable shelter for each and every senior citizen. 2. Transport Public transport has also seen improvements and is somewhat more elder-friendly. In 2006, MRT stations were modified and made barrier free. Today, approximately forty percent of our buses are wheelchair accessible. 3. Encouraging re-employment Due to the negative impacts of ageing population on the workforce productivity, the government has seen the importance to tackle on this problem so as to sustain economic growth. Hence, the 2005 appointment of a Tripartite Committee (government, employers and trade union) on Employability of Older Workers by the Minister for Manpower addressed the issue by implementing several measures (Thang, L. (2011)). One of the measures is the the enactment of Retirement and Re-Employment Act (RRA) which was put into effect on 1 Jan 2012. The Tripartite Committee formed the Tripartite Implementation Workgroup to help employers carry out this initiative. In October 2007, the Tripartite Implementation Workgroup formed by the Tripartite Committee was to assist companies in the implementation of the re-employment measures. In order to further encourage the implementation of re-employment schemes for older workers, companies were given financial support of up to $400,000 for policies that were placed in line with the re-employment legislation. Workforce Development Agency also subsidized the re-training programmes that were put in place by employers. in addition, Continuing Education and Training (CET) master plan was launched in 2008 by the Ministry of Manpower to provide trainings for employees so that they will be equipped with skills that keep up with the pace of the fast-growing industries. While the government attempts to encourage re-employment of older workers, they have to ensure that younger employees and employers are willing to accept them. This is because older workers are generally perceived as unproductive and inflexible. Hence, measures have been put in place foster an age-friendly working environment. This is done by introducing national awards to acknowledge companies with the most progressive and unbiased practices. The Tripartite Alliance for Fair Employment Practices (TAFEP) has also put in place many guidelines to advocate on fairness and to discourage discrimination of the old-aged employees. (Thang, L. (2011)) Hence, by encouraging the older employees to continue working, and   by changing mindsets to accept older workers, Singapores workforce and output can be maintained at the current level of integrity. The Tripartite Implementation Workgroup was a relative success as by February 2009, 706 unionized companies have committed to re employment while 4650 workers over age 62 were re-employed by the end of 2008. (Thang, L. (2011)) 4. Ensuring financial stability for the aged Due to the decreasing fertility rate in Singapore, there will be a heavier financial burden on the future generations, and it is possible that the older generation may not be financially independent. The Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) Scheme was introduced in 2007 to ensure that Singaporeans will have sufficient savings for their retirement. This scheme encourages the older workers who are earning low-paying salary to continue working so that they can accumulate more CPF savings.   In order to supplement higher take-home pay and reduced CPF rates, the Government began to give elderly workers part of the WIS in cash so that they can afford for their basic needs. (Reference:http://mycpf.cpf.gov.sg/Members/Gen-Info/Workfare.html) Furthermore, due to the increase in life expectancy, the government plans to increase the Minimum Sum Draw-Down age from 62 to 65 by the year 2018. There were also plans to introduce a longevity insurance scheme. This will ensure that CPF members can be assured of a basic income as long as they live. (Reference:http://app1.mcys.gov.sg/Portals/0/Summary/pressroom/03-2008.pdf) 5. Healthcare In face of the current trend that can be observed in Singapore, it is essential that healthcare services are improved to cater to the needs of the older population. Thus, the Ministry of Health introduced a Chronic Disease Management Programme which empowered physicians to adopt a holistic approach in the treatment of diseases. Furthermore, the ElderShield Scheme for the disabled was enhanced in 2007 to help increase affordability of medical services by paying $400 per month for up to 6 years. There was a 60% improvement from the previous scheme.    http://www.moh.gov.sg/content/moh_web/home/costs_and_financing/schemes_subsidies/ElderShield.html In addition, the Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports (MCYS) and the Ministry of Health (MOH) are also conducting   a review of eldercare services aimed at bettering facilities such as daycare centres, rehabilitation centres and home help services . The concept of active ageing was developed by the European Commission in 2002. It brings forward the idea of higher retirement age and longer period of activity in the workforce. It has been proven that leading an active and directional life improves the overall well-being of an individual and helps keep illnesses and diseases at bay. Active ageing was introduced by the Singapore government in order to ensure self sufficiency of citizens after retirement. It established the Council for Third Age(C3A) in May 2007 to promote active ageing and fund community-based events related to active ageing. In addition, due to the increase in degenerative diseases that require expensive treatment, the concept of active ageing is gaining more importance. It is said that the cost of treatment for the older generation will cost two to three times more than that needed for the younger population. (Reference: http://www.asiaone.com/Health/News/Story/A1Story20071031-33327.html) What Does the Future Hold? Our population is ageing at a rate faster than in countries such as Australia, South Korea, UK and the USA. (ref first article in dropbox) . The number of citizens aged 65 and above will show a sevenfold increase by the year 2050. So what does this mean for our future? Firstly, our country will be more prone to external invasion. Presence of an ageing population is an indicator that our defense is weakening. We will have fewer young people to fill the ranks of the army, and fewer physically fit citizens to defend us in times of need. Our future and survival will be threatened. Secondly, economic growth will slow down. Singapore will no longer be seen as a hub of young, talented and competitive individuals by global MNCs. They may no longer want to invest and set up their offices here. Furthermore, with fewer individuals to pay income taxes, the government will have less money to spend on healthcare, infrastructure,etc. As a result, taxes will increase, leaving people less to spend on themselves and their family. The demand for healthcare services will rise, but will not be sufficiently subsidised by a government which does not have enough resources. Singapore is at the brink of entering a vicious cycle . If immediate short-term and long-term measures are not taken, we are bound to find ourselves moving backwards and reaching a rate of growth similar to what we had many decades ago. Our recommendations 1. Enhancing senior citizens value in the organization through empowerment In line with the re-employment policies the government has in place, we suggest that organizations create appointments and titles specially aimed at empowering senior citizens. They should ensure that   these creations are aligned with the capabilities of these senior citizens. Likewise, existing positions should   be modified according to their capabilities. The purpose of this   is to enhance their value and well-being in the workplace where they are often regarded as liabilities more than assets. With such initiatives, senior citizens will be able to perform better, with more flexibility and recognition within the organization. This also widens the operating structure of organizations, allowing for more variety of specialization. At the same time, organizations could tap into their experience and expertise, especially for crisis management and advisory roles. Even within the Singapore Cabinet, forefather Lee Kuan Yew is still actively involved in local politics at the age of 89 and the titles Minister Mentor and Senior Minister were specially created to continuously empower him. 2. Continuous active promotion of healthy aging from small communities Presently, Senior Citizens Executive Committees (SCECs) under the Peoples Association (PA), the largest senior citizens network in Singapore, organizes a wide variety of activities and courses aimed at enhancing senior citizens life experiences. They are usually conducted at a national level, and seldom reach out to the smaller communities. The government could engage Resident Committees (RCs) and Community Centres (CCs) in neighbourhoods to aid in promoting healthy aging. Subsidised or sponsored activities could be one alternative to attract senior citizens to actively exercise healthy aging. Constant awareness can be achieved through newsletters and pamphlets mailed to letterboxes. 3. Strengthening family ties It is important for our society to realise the value and importance of senior citizens. They should not be viewed as burdens; instead they should be seen as extraordinary citizens who brought us as well as our country to the position we are in today. Hence, it is expected that we, the younger generation, give them the deserved care and respect without any ulterior motive in mind. We feel that the indoctrination of these strong values should begin at a young age.   Special programmes should be introduced into schools in order to promote togetherness within the family. Children should be educated about the importance of elders in society and should be taught to always show them respect and kindness. The media can also play a role an important in this process by occasionally publishing articles that portray the elderly in a good light.

The Apathetic Generation :: Argumentative Persuasive Argument Essays

The Apathetic Generation The â€Å"Greatest Generation,† the generation of our grandparents, was the generation that beat the enemy down in the European and Pacific theater with pure determination and will. That generation showed past and future generations what it meant to be a strong, steadfast, and hardworking nation with determination. During this election, rumors of a draft, a draft to help fray some of the casualties that we have been encoring while fighting the War on Terror, have circulated. The re-staffing of draft boards and the introduction of a draft reinstatement bills by Rep. Charles Rangel (D-NY) can be looked upon as a catalyst to these rumblings. Young adults across the nation have been in chat rooms talking about how this war is another Vietnam and how there is no way they will be drafted. This is such a touchy subject that President Bush said during the debate that the U.S. Armed Forces will stay an all-volunteer force. Our grandparents’ generation would never have said how they wouldn’t go to war if the government asked them. You may say that was a different time. But both WWII and this war began with attacks on our soil. If the draft is reinstated, would that be the worst thing to happen to this country? I admit it would be a devastating blow to us in regards to morale, but it would not be the worst thing to happen . Our generation is a generation of softies. We have no idea what it means to sacrifice things like metal, iron, pantyhose, and even butter for the greater good of a national cause. Our generation has a bigger fight than the â€Å"Greatest Generation.† We are fighting a war with an ideology, not a government. We are fighting a group of people who hate us because of our love for freedom. If a draft is part of the American fabric, we should be leery of it. But at the same time, if we don’t have the men to fight this war, we will lose our way of life, a way of life that may never be regained. This period of history is the most uncertain in modern times. We may disagree with the politics of the day, but if you take the politics away you still have a war that needs to be won. Won with the characteristics of the â€Å"Greatest Generation† that have been lost within the era of computers and self indulgence.

Handmaids Tale Essay

Michael Ilcyn The experience of living in the world of Gillead with all its restrictions and procedures on love and family upbringing already brings about reconstruction on the society we live and know today. Throughout the story, however, old traditions are secretly brought back, further reconstructing this world in order for it to last. In Chapters 23-26, we start to see how the roles of men and women are continuing to be reconstructed, as rules are broken between Serena, Offred, Nick and the Commander.In Gillead, handmaids are brought to each household where a woman is incapable of conceiving a child. The family goes through a ritual where bible passages are read, and the handmaid has relations with the man of the house while the wife stands behind her, holding her hands as a symbol of unity. Relations between the husband and the handmaid are impersonal and intended only for procreation, as passion has become a thing of the past.Offred, however, has not yet become pregnant through out these rituals, and something must be done to move the process along. In Chapter 23 we read about Offred’s secret meetings with the commander in his study, where they talk, read books and magazines, and play scrabble (something forbidden as women are outlawed from reading). Things between the Commander and Offred start to get more impersonal as the Commander asks Offred to â€Å"Kiss him like she means it† at the end of one of their meetings.This brings us to Offred and the Commander’s first indication of reconstruction in bringing about familiarity toward their â€Å"business-like† relationship. Each month, the handmaids are to go to the doctors for health examinations to make sure that they are prepared if they were to get pregnant. During one such visit, the doctor comments to Offred that the Commander may be inadequate for consummating. While against the rules, the doctor offers to have relations with Offred and cast the baby off to Serena and the Commander.Offred refuses as this seems to be yet another small example of reconstruction in bending of the rules in order to bring about expected results. We find out that Offred is not the only person that the doctor has offered service to. We also see this as the commander introduces Offred to his friend Nick. Offred also starts meeting with Nick and connecting with him. Serena, the Commander’s wife, also realizes that the Commander could be at fault for the inability to become pregnant. Serena suggests that Offred tries Nick and to pass the baby off.Offred’s relationships with each of these men start to resemble more of a courting relationship, as more secrets are kept about the meetings themselves and what goes on. Offred’s relationship with Serena is also risky as any false move can put her into trouble with government. While there are many examples of reconstruction throughout the story â€Å"A Handmaids Tale†, the roles of men and women and how the y change throughout the book seem to be the most apparent. As a result, it shows us how an overly controlled world only leads to destruction in the end.

Dead Man Walking: How the Death Penalty is totally Biased

My position on the death penalty is that it is completely unfair and an unjust system. Throughout the whole novel we learn how the death penalty was strictly enforced more in the south than in any other part of the nation. The worst part of this was that it was most rigorously used against people who killed â€Å"white† people. The death penalty was a system that was racial and also socioeconomic biased, making it totally unfair and one-sided. In a state that had the highest misery stats in the nation, it was pretty expensive to afford a well-prepared lawyer. By not having a well-prepared lawyer you had to rely on public defenders which usually had many clients to defend that made it impossible to interview inmates before trials, much less do time-consuming investigations that capital cases required; thus the reason why ninety-nine percent of death-row inmates were poor. The government had basically created two types of separate, unjust legal systems: one for the rich, in which everything was put into consideration, every opinion was heard, and where you could buy your freedom; and one for the rich, in which hasty guilty pleas and brief hearings are the rule and appeals are the exceptions. Read this â€Å"The Secrets of Haiti’s Living Dead† Racism was a very big part of this penal system. As both Prejean and Farmer pointed out in the novel, the death penalty biased people who committed murders against white people and that in the south nine times out of ten when the death penalty is sought it’s because the victim is â€Å"white†. Around seventy-five percent of death-row inmates were there for killing â€Å"whites†. Even the Supreme Court acknowledged, in McCleskey vs. Kemp (1987), that there exists racial bias in capital sentencing and that killers of â€Å"whites† are more likely to receive the death penalty than killers of â€Å"blacks†. These are the type of things that made this system prejudice towards â€Å"blacks†, not only that but it also demoralized their life. Throughout the novel Prejean strives to do the opposite of what society is doing to these men, which is humanize them. The humanization of both Willie and Sonnier actually made my stance against the death penalty a lot stronger. It just shows that not everyone is perfect and no matter how big or small everyone will have flaws. I do agree with punishment but it doesn’t give the government the right to choose whether you live or die.

Democracy Essays - Democracy, E-democracy, Legitimacy, Free Essays

Democracy Essays - Democracy, E-democracy, Legitimacy, Free Essays Democracy Democracy Complete and true democracy is almost impossible to achieve, and has been the primary goal of many nations, beginning from ancient civilizations of Greece and Roman Empire, all the way to the government of the United States today. There are a few essential characteristics which must be present in a political system for it to be even considered democratic. One essential characteristic of a legitimate democracy is that it allows people to freely make choices without government intervention. Another necessary characteristic which legitimates government is that every vote must count equally: one vote for every person. For this equality to occur, all people must be subject to the same laws, have equal civil rights, and be allowed to freely express their ideas. Minority rights are also crucial in a legitimate democracy. No matter how unpopular their views, all people should enjoy the freedoms of speech, press and assembly. Public policy should be made publicly, not secretly, and regularly scheduled elections should be held. All of these elements and government processes are a regular part of the American government. Yet, even with all the above elements present in the governmental operations of our country, numerous aspects of the governmental process undermine its legitimacy, and bring to question if United States government is really a true democracy. Considering the achievement of complete democracy is most likely impossible, the political system of American government is democratic, but its democratic legitimacy is clearly limited in many respects. One of the first notable aspects of the United States government which brings the democratic legitimacy into question is the ever-occurring bias between classes of people that participate in the electoral voting. Class is determined by income and education, and differing levels of these two factors can help explain why class bias occurs. For example, because educated people tend to understand politics more, they are mo re likely to vote. In fact, political studies done at Princeton in 1995 clearly showed that 76 percent of all voters had college degrees. The same studies have been done in the next three years and showed the percentage steadily holding at 76 percent, except in 1997, when it dropped down by two percent (Avirett 11). This four to one ration of college educated voters versus non-college educated voters shows a clear inequality and bias in the American voting system. This also brings about the aspect of income. People with high income and education have more

Women on the Texas Frontier Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Women on the Texas Frontier - Assignment Example Jacqueline Reiner points out various barriers that hindered Southern Women from moving out of the woman’s sphere; creating a scenario where only a few were able to move out of the woman’s sphere. The first barrier is associated with the fact that majority of the public offices were not open to the nineteenth century women (Jacqueline, pg. 53). The other issue that might have contributed to the essence of few women moving out of the woman’s sphere is the fact that women were only allowed to participate actively in churches, schools as well as in voluntary religious activities. The institutions of slavery during the early nineteenth century, especially among the Southern Women might have also contributed to the wide acceptance of the woman’s sphere among the white and the black women (Jacqueline, pg. 57). However, after the American Civil war, some of the Southern Women were compelled by social necessities to extend the essence of woman’s sphere to other social setting, thus they worked in public places like bars as bar tenders while a few were provided with opportunities for formal education (Jacqueline, pg. 58). On the other hand, some few women managed to join women’s organizations as well as clubs creating a scenario where only a few managed to move out of the woman’s

Financial Case Analysis Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Financial Case Analysis - Assignment Example Japan Venture Partners provides the knowledge and relationships needed for foreign companies to establish local (Japan) subsidiaries. JVP manages negotiations and structuring of equity investments. JVP uses its relationships with local Japanese corporate and financial investors to help North American companies establish a foothold in the Japanese markets. JVP leans more toward investments from a small group of Japanese corporate and financial investors. Japan Venture Partners offer several financing options to its clients. This organization shares the financial risk while its clients maintain control of the subsidiary. Japan Venture Partners encourages forming, managing, and financing subsidiaries in Japan through the use of local equity or debt financing2. In certain situations IPO's (initial public offerings) are possible in the Japanese market. Local financing in Japan is important in establishing long-term relationships in markets as well as local financial results. Another important aspect of JVP's management of subsidiaries is its ability to keep foreign companies in compliance with local securities laws and ownership structures that are compliant with local laws. It is worthy to note here that an agreement between JVP and Omnicom would be a joint venture. Financing options would be those best suited to a joint venture agreement. 2.1 Identification Of Different Finance Options and Risk As stated earlier there are two main financing options available to Omnicom if they choose to use JVP's services to enter the Japanese market: issuing new equity and issuing new debt. These financing options are further broken down to internal financing and external financing. Internal financing consists of using funds from the parent company, from sister subsidiaries, and subsidiary borrowing with parent guarantee.3 External Financing consists of borrowing from sources in the parent country, borrowing from sources outside the parent country, and local currency debt. The internal choice should minimize worldwide taxes and political risk. The external choice should minimize the cost of funds (foreign exchange risk)4 2.1.1 Issuing New Equity Issuing new equity would raise funds to support Omnicom's entry into the Japanese market. Omnicom's choices are to issue domestic securities or foreign securities (or both). Both types of security's objectives are to maximize the rate of return and minimize risk. Investors in foreign securities face possible currency and political risk (addressed in section 2.4). The securities must appeal to both domestic and foreign portfolio investors to be successful in funding the joint venture. Equity calculations should be forward looking using historical performance records. By selling equities in the foreign markets the company is able to maintain some liquidity. 2.1.2 Issuing New Debt Omnicom also has the option of issuing debt securities to fund its larger presence in the Japanese market. These loans could come from domestic or international sources. Omnicom would enter into agreements (contracts) with the interest rates, interest payments