Thursday, October 31, 2019

Abdulrahman Zeitoun and The Hero with a Thousand Faces Essay

Abdulrahman Zeitoun and The Hero with a Thousand Faces - Essay Example He has specified three main criteria pertaining to the Hero’s adventures. Then, the paper takes the experiences of Abdulrahman Zeitoun, a Syrian American and evaluates his actions on the basis of Campbell’s criteria. Zeitoun’s actions have transformed him into a modern-day heroic figure whose case can serve as an example to inspire people around the world on how to emerge unscathed and victorious from adversity. Joseph Campbell in his book The Hero with a Thousand Faces has tried to unravel some of the mysteries surrounding religious and mythological figures with the help of examples. The mythological texts have glorified personalities who have displayed courage to undertake superhuman deeds. In the first stage, the Hero ventures from the ordinary world to a supernatural realm. During the course of his journey, he encounters great forces and ultimately prevails upon them. Finally, he returns to his land with special powers which he then imparts to his fellow men. Therefore, the adventure path of the hero usually passes through three different stages: separation, initiation and return. In ancient mythology, whoever desired to embark on a journey of life and explore the way was encouraged to carry on: â€Å"Whosoever desires to explore the Way – Let them set out- for what more is there to say – â€Å" (Campbell 23) This idea conveys that embarking on the journey of life helps man to discover his inner self. He realizes the true identity of his soul and learns about the mission that he has been sent to accomplish. The idea about the completeness of life is unraveled to him. The journey of life is embodied on the concept of a continuous endeavor to move forward without stopping to think and procrastinate. This resembles the journey of the Hero in his quest for glory. The mythological accounts of the heroic achievements of men have served as an inspiration to the future generations of civilization. (Campbell xxiv). In his book, C ampbell describes vividly each of the three stages in a typical adventurous journey of the Hero. He illustrates his description with suitable cases from ancient religion and mythology. The first stage of the Hero’s Departure or Separation from the ordinary world begins with the Hero receiving Supernatural’s Call to Adventure. Though he turns down the Call at first, the Hero receives the assurance of Supernatural assistance. Thus he ventures on his journey and begins to cross the thresholds of his course. The second stage elaborates on the Hero’s â€Å"Initiation† to the Supernatural World. His journey to this ethereal world is filled with numerous trials and tribulations, but he emerges victorious with the help of his extra powers. As a reward, the Hero has the good fortune of meeting the Goddess. However, his experiences in this world are not free from temptations and in some cases, the Hero is compelled to submit to these provocations. Inspite of this, The Holy Father gives him a chance of atonement and the Hero is washed of his sins. The Hero is thus elevated to a divine status and receives supreme powers as a mark of his divinity. The final stage describes the Hero’s â€Å"Return† from the ethereal realm to the common world. The Hero is transported back to his own ordinary world through a magic flight. He overcomes the â€Å"Return Threshold† and reaches his native place. Endowed with supernatural powers, the Hero now becomes the Master of both the ordinary and the ethereal world. (Campbell 45-221) David Egger’s book Zeitoun is a non-fictional work regarding the Zietoun family in New Orleans. It is a true account of the deeds of Abdulrahman Zeitoun, a Syrian-American, when his family encountered the Hurricane storm Katrina and the events that followed thereafter. It is a challenge to

Monday, October 28, 2019

Wireless Technology Upgrade Essay Example for Free

Wireless Technology Upgrade Essay Introduction: Since the introduction of the first mobile phone in 1924, there has been a steady climb in developing and enhancing, the mobile phone and its supporting technologies. The cellular network infrastructures as well as service providers have been hard at work; in making sure they are providing the best service as well as devices. The infrastructure alone has gone through several life cycles. Which is required in order providers to keep up with growth and technology changes. Wireless cellular providers, at one point offered services that ran off analog frequencies. Today the wireless networks are built off of an all-digital network, which is considered to be in its 3rd generation. 3rd generation technologies include GSM, GPRS, UMTS and CDMA. In this project you will be introduced to an up and coming wireless service provider, GoFone Cellular Communications. GoFone is currently interested in making your nation our new home. GoFone has the ability to offer services that will allow its subscribers the ability to communicate faster and more efficiently. At the present the citizens within the 16 cities nation, only has one cellular provider that is offering subpar service. GoFone’s network is built off of Universal Mobile Telecommunications Service, (UMTS), technology which, promises to be a better choice for the Nation. GoFone Cellular Communications has been a wireless cellular provider of over 10 years. By staying ahead of the curve and keeping up with industry trends, GoFone has been a proven leader. GoFone’s current position in the cellular market indicates that GoFone, has loyal customers that will continue to growth with the providers efforts. The company strives to deliver top-notch service over its 3rd generation UMTS network, which is being accepted globally as an industry standard. UMTS also provides enhanced voice and data features that are not compatible with other technologies. Strategic Business Assessment: Currently the nation already has an established wireless cellular provider. However, the citizens are growing tired of the high charges and sub-par service they are receiving. The existing cellular infrastructure is built off TDMA technology, using the 800MHz frequency range. The company is taking advantage of its subscribers, as they are aware of the fact that they are the only providers servicing the nation. Their coverage is limited in areas due to coverage blocking. The provider does not offer away for its customers to use to both data and voice simultaneously. In conjunction with previously said issues, the provider is charging higher than usual rates. As the nation and states continue to evolve, so are their citizens. Due to the changes and natural evolution, the citizens want more out of its service and devices. The citizens want phones that will give them the capability to browse the Internet, email, text and enhanced voice service. Essential wanting to stay connected all the time. Regardless, of the customer’s wants and possible needs, it appears the provider is not interested in upgrading its current network or product offerings. The provider’s current network is built off the Timed Division Multiple Access (TDMA), which is considered 2nd generation cellular technology. TDMA operates at the 800MHz frequency band. TDMA takes the channel/signal and splits them into multiple timed slots; this means that data is traveling in a round-robin fashion. TDMA was designed to only handle voice services and the segmentation that is done allows for the network to remain stable, and voice quality is not affected. However due to its limitations of not being able to browse the internet or fully user wireless data and the service provider not willing to upgrade, due to the signal coverage, the nation will not be able to grow and technology will not fully evolve. Technology: GoFone Cellular Communications is a leader in delivering innovative wireless cellular services. The need for innovation and providing top-notch service has led GoFone into being an industry leader. GoFone has been able stay ahead of the class, by keeping up with industry trends, and consumer satisfaction. The services offered allow users to stay connected to the world. Subscribers are able to talk and browse the Internet at the same time. GoFone also offers a variety of cellular phones with several options. GoFone’s service is currently being offered on 3rd generation technology, that promises scalability. Having the ability to offer different services, with different pricing points consumers will be able to pick a choice on what type of service or package they want. GoFone promises to provide cellular wireless services, with the ability to stay connected and have minimal to no impact. GoFone’s network is operating off Universal Mobile Telecommunications Service (UMTS), which is 3rd generation wireless cellular technology. GoFone will deploy its UMTS network on the 900MHz frequency. UMTS technology is mainly based off of Wide Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA) affords; GoFone the opportunity to offer features such as mobile wireless Internet, email and other services. The use of UMTS allows for exponential amount of scalable operations. GoFone also offers an array of cellular phones that are visually and cosmetically appealing. The devices would have large color screen displays. The devices being offered can be compared to devices like BlackBerry, Apple iPhone, and several other devices. GoFone’s wireless network is one of the largest and most reliable networks in its originating country covering several thousand people. Design A Wireless System: GoFone Cellular Communications network will be deployed using UMTS on the 900MHz frequency range; (UMTS900). GoFone’s idea of building a solid and reliable network with less makes UMTS900 the perfect solution. UMTS900 provides increased mobility options, as well as greater cellular coverage. Being that the network will be prorogated with fewer cell sites, UMTS900 will provide better hand-overs; which will reduce brief loss of connection or drops calls. The deployment of the new wireless network will prove to be beneficial to the Nation as the build out will create new jobs for its citizens. The development of a new network will create competition between providers, which in turn will create new business practices. As previously mentioned UMTS is a 3rd generation technology, which offers more robust network with enhanced capabilities. UMTS is a concept that takes advantage of convergence of fixed and mobile networks and services, enabling a host of new applications. For example, a laptop with an integrated UMTS communications module becomes a general-purpose communications and computing device for broadband Internet access, voice, video telephony, and conferencing for either mobile, office, or residential use (Fletcher, 1999). UMTS can offer capabilities such as having real-time wireless connectivity, multi-cast distribution, and person location services. UMTS also supports both packet and circuit transmissions and provides data speeds up to 2Mbps. Using the 900MHz frequency range UMTS900 requires fewer cell sites, which will reduce costs for infrastructure build out and reduce on-going maintenance costs. The infrastructure build out for UMTS900 network, is cheaper compared to other networks. In order for deployment to begin, GoFone will have to consider what type of antennas and feeders to use. They will also have to look into acquisition or rental cost for cell sites. GoFone is also responsible for construction and labor cost. Typical build-out cost for Greenfield environment such as the Nation will roughly cost about $2B over 5 years; which will cover the cost to build base stations, acquiring build sites, materials, and marketing/promotional costs. Another part of network planning is the Link Budget. Link Budget helps with determining the dimensions for coverage, quality of service and calculating maximum cell size. Some keys things to keep in mind with performing the Link Budget: †¢Type of service (data type and speed) †¢Type of environment (terrain, building penetration) †¢Behavior and type of mobile (speed, max power level) †¢System configuration (BTS antennas, BTS power, cable losses, handover gain) †¢Required coverage probability †¢Financial and economical factors (use of more expensive and better quality equipment or not the cheapest installation method) GoFone’s UMTS900 network would be the ideal system to deploy in the Nation. UMTS900 provides wide coverage area. Providing a wide coverage area will greatly reduce coverage costs. Being that UMTS900 uses a low frequency, it provides better in-building reception/service; which will reduce coverage blocks and improve user experience. UMTS900 provides lower power consumption, due to an improved RF amplifier. UMTS900 has proven to be an excellent option for both rural and urban areas. This is partly due to the base stations being deployed; the base stations provide stronger and broader coverage. The coverage area for a typical cell site is up to 9 miles. So initially there will be an estimate of a 190 cell sites, which will roughly cover 1,733 miles. Which will cover roughly about 90% of the nation and its citizens. GoFone Cellular Communications will increase coverage to the remaining areas, once the customer base shows steady rise in subscribed lines. Compatibility Plan: GoFone Cellular Communications UMTS900 network will offer a several significant capabilities that would be ideal for the average consumer or business applications. Consumers would have the ability to enjoy multimedia-enabled services, such as video conferencing and simultaneous voice and data operation. UMTS900 supports applications such as email, VPN, and WAP-based applications. As more and more businesses demands more flexibility for automation and customization manufacturers and providers will continue to provide enterprise applications and access. The technology also supports business enterprise application such as sales force automation tools. UMTS900 offers higher data speeds than GSM, GPRS and CDMA. Typically user can expect to see about 200kbps download and 64kbps upload speeds. UMTS900 also offers lower latency. In comparison to GSM and GPRS networks, latency is expected to be around 200ms instead of about 600ms. Outside of UMTS’ data capabilities, the technology also performs normal voice transmission, and operates the same as if on a landline. However, the technology provides the ability to perform simultaneous voice and data transmissions. An example of said service would be for instance, as user will be able to make a call and except and email at the same time. Another example would be a user downloading a file via Bluetooth while on a call. There are minimal limitations when it comes to UMTS. The main limitation would be some subscribers not being able to reach high data speeds. The network degradation is caused by antenna propagation or network congestion. Another issue would be coverage in overlapping areas, where UMTS signal is not accessible. To compensate UMTS compatible devices will have to be enabled with roaming. Standardization is another key factor in deploying a UMTS network. UMTS specification standards are governed by 3GPP; who governs all GSM, WCDMA, LTE and UTRAN, UTMS and FOMA. However success of UMTS is dependent upon flexibility and technological development of providers. Planned Competitive Improvements: Once GoFone’s UMTS900 is deployed, continuing improvements will be made throughout, that will enhance network and service capabilities. The next improvement will be the addition of High Speed Packet Acces (HSPA); which includes High Speed Uplink Packet Access (HSUPA) or Enhanced Uplink (EUL) High Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA). An uplink enhancement will improve overall performance, with an increase in capacity and increased data rates. The integration of EUL improves Quality of Service, Improving the downlink will increase downlink speeds of up to 15Mbs. The integration of HSPA will introduce new applications that will use various amounts of bandwidth. Ultimately making GoFone Cellular Communications 4th generation compliant. Another improvement would be the multimedia capabilities of adding IP-based Multimedia Service (IMS). IMS is a protocol that delivers multimedia services using IP protocol. IMS will provide GoFone the ability to provide enhanced multimedia across the network. IMS will improve the circuit switch and packet switch capabilities. The major benefit to deploying IMS will be the improvement on simultaneous voice and data operations. Instead of having multiple sessions for concurrent use, the user will be able to use a single session to use concurrent operations. Enabling support for WLAN access will be a needed improvement. Enabling WLAN access will allow a device to be simultaneously connected to the cellular network as well as a WiFi network. GoFone Cellular Communications plans on enabling its UMTS network for wireless access. With the high data speeds, enabling wireless access will allow applications such as streaming audio and video, and multiplayer gaming. Having a wireless service will not only enhance the mobile phone, but also will allow other platforms the ability to connect or access the cellular network. UMTS will also improve applications and delivery rich web content as well as client/server support for enterprise use. Thus, allowing enterprise users the ability of connecting to their companies network and provides mobile means of being able to work on the go. Other Competitive Technological Solutions: There are several other technological solutions that would compete with the offerings of GoFone. However, when compared GoFone’s UMTS900 network proves to be the better solution. Other technological solutions would include deploying CDMA2000, GPRS, or GSM. CDMA2000 is 3rd generation solution that evolved from CDMA. CDMA2000, like UMTS support switched packets. However CDMA2000 comes in different variations. The different variations are 1x EV-DO and 1x EV-DV. EV-DO variation offers improvements to Data, which increases the speeds up to 3Mbps down and 1.8Mbps up. EV-DV is the second edition to CDMA2000 and provides enhancements for both data and voice services. CDMA2000 provides similar performance to UMTS. However is not globally accepted. GPRS is a 2.5-generation technology that is packet switched based. GPRS provides speeds of 30-40Kbps, and is not used for voice or text messaging services. GPRS supports a variety of data applications, which includes, mobile Internet, multimedia messaging, and other applications that use the Internet. GPRS also offers the ability to use concurrent data and voice operations. GPRS provides a direct enhancement to GSM networks, as it provides improved voice and data connections. However, when compared to UMTS, which is a 3rd generation technology, UMTS would prove GPRS to be inferior. GSM is the mostly widely accepted wireless cellular technology. Although GSM is widely accepted, it is also 2nd generation mobile technology. GSM is considered the â€Å"grand-father† of mobile as it predates CDMA. GSM is widely used in Europe, however does have a presence stateside as the major carriers integrates some form of GSM technology within their network. The major benefit of GSM is the user of the SIM card, which is used to identify the carrier’s network and access privileges. The major difference besides the generation is, UMTS is based of CDMA technology. UMTS provides faster data speeds, while future enhancements will allow cross-pollination between GSM and UMTS networks. Meaning devices that travel outside of its network boundaries would be supported by either GSM or UMTS. Upgrading to Next Generation: GoFone Cellular Communications UMTS900 is currently a 3rd generation technology, and will eventually be upgraded to the next generational technology. In order for GoFone to upgrade to 4g, the network will have to undergo a software update to Release 99 of the UMTS standards. GoFone will also have to upgrade the channel cards at in the base stations. Release 99 will integrate UMTS with HSDPA, which also promises to be backwards compatible to GSM, and GPRS. Compared to other upgrades UMTS/HSPDA is the most cost effective as the majority of the upgrade is merely upgrading the software. Device will also need to be upgraded with a special antenna for 4g services. The upgrade to HSDPA is more beneficial in the long run as it make better use of spectrum. Upgrading to HSDPA will produce greater bandwidth and ease of access for subscribers. Summary and Conclusions: GoFone Cellular Communications is interested in providing mobile cellular communications for the Nation and its citizens. Currently the Nation has a wireless provider that is proving not to the ideal solution for the majority of the citizens are they want more out of the service. The current service is built on TDMA, which is 2nd generation mobile technology. Customers are experiencing sub par service as well has a high bill. GoFone Cellular Communications motto is to deliver more with less. With that said GoFone’s mobile network is built off UMTS900, which is 3rd generation mobile technology. The UMTS technology offers significant benefits to both personal and business applications. GoFone’s infrastructure build out will be cost efficient due to the use of the 900MHz spectrum band. The 900Mhz band is low frequency that offers wide coverage. Due to the wide coverage the network will require minimal cell sites. For this initiative GoFone will initially deploy an estimate of 190 cell sites which will cover the majority of the nation. As GoFone customer base grows, the provider will increase the remaining coverage with the addition of making steady improvements. Improvements to the network will also be cost-effective as the majority of the upgrades are merely software updates. There are minimal hardware changes after the initial build out; the only thing that would need to be done to cell sites is a update channel card. Outside of the minimal upgrades, devices will also be updated in making sure the fall with industry standards. In conclusion, GoFone Cellular Communications promises to delivery the reliable and steady cellular network the Nation deserves and needs. GoFone’s UMTS900 service will deliver, simultaneous voice and data operations, along with high data speeds. Along with providing solutions for Business Enterprise users, GoFone will also offer competitive service packages, that will cater to the specific user and their individual or corporate needs. GoFone’s network is very much stable, reliable and ready for the future. References: Althoff, M.P., Seidenberg, P. Walke, B. (2003, June), â€Å"UMTS: The Fundementals. Bates, R.J. (2001), â€Å"Wireless Broadband Handbook,† 212-213, 306-317. Cukier, Kenneth and Hibbard, Justin. â€Å"Spectrum Shortage†. Red Herring Magazine, September 1, 2000. Ericsson, (2002, July), â€Å"WCDMA, EDGE, and cdma2000 Capacity for Packet Data Services†. http://www.4Gamericas.org Fletcher, P. (1999, April). â€Å"A European perspective on 3rd generation wireless technology and politics,† Electronic Design, 72-75. Gow, G.A Smith, R.K. (2006). â€Å"Mobile Wireless Communications,† 117. Kaloxylos, A., Lampropoulos, G., Merakos, L., Passas, N. (2007, November). â€Å"A Flexible UMTS/WLAN Architecture for Improved Network Performance,† published in Wireless Personal Communications: An International Journal – Vol. 43 Issue3, 889-906. McClelland, B. (1999, April). â€Å"Mobilizing the third generation,† 50-54. Pentland, S. (1999, February). â€Å"Planning for UMTS,†36-42. Porter, M.E Millar, V.E (1985) ‘How information gives you a competitive advantage’ Harvard Business Review: 149-160. Roberts, Simone. â€Å"3G in Europe: Expensive but Essential†; Wireless/Mobile Europe, The Yankee Group. Report Vol. 5, No. 8 –June 2001, p.1.

Saturday, October 26, 2019

Contrastive Analysis And Error Analysis

Contrastive Analysis And Error Analysis Contrastive analysis is a method to distinguish between what are needed and not needed to learn by the second language learner by evaluating languages (M.Gass Selinker, 2008). In addition, contrastive analysis is a technique to identify whether two languages have something in common which assess both similarities and differences in languages, conforming to the belief in language universals. (Johnson, 1999). Both statements indicate that contrastive analysis holds a principle which is important in order to identify what are required by the second learner and what are not. If there is no familiar characteristic in the languages, then it is not necessary to compare the languages. While much could be said about comparing languages, a more important aspect is about influence from L2 in L1. Contrastive analysis stresses the influence of the mother tongue in learning a second language in phonological, morphological, lexical and syntactic levels. It holds that second language would be affec ted by first language (Jie, 2008, p. 36). On the same score, Wardhaugh asserts that first language of second language learners can clarify all errors that are constantly made them. These arguments prove that the common mistakes make by the second language learner are explainable in the first language if there is a relation in both languages. Indeed, this idea is conform to the rule of contrastive analysis which believes in language universal. On the other hand, contrastive analysis is used to identify one language origin and connection between the languages with other languages if it does. In Robert Lados words (1957:p.2): The fundamental assumption is transfer; individuals tend to transfer the forms and meanings, and the distribution of forms and meanings of their native language and culture to the foreign language and culture. I agree with Robert Lado since the second language learner tends to use direct translation to make a complete sentence. However, this might become a problem when the placement of the part of speech is not the same. For example, Malaysian who use Malay language as their first language and English as their second language might have a problem in placing the adjective. This is because in Malay language, adjective is put after the noun, such as; Rumah yang cantik but in English, adjective is placed before noun, for instance A beautiful house (adj) (Noun) This may cause confusion for the second learner but if they make a sentence, it is still understandable. The degree of clarity of the sentence can be a positive transfer of negative transfer. This example is supported by Jie (2008): In the course of language learning, L1 learning habits will be transferred into L2 learning habits. Therefore, in the case of L1 transfer into L2, if structures in the MT have their corresponding structures in the TL and L1 habits can be successfully used in the L2, learners would transfer similar properties successfully and that would result in positive transfer. Contrastingly, in the case of negative transfer or interference, certain elements of the MT have no corresponding counterparts in the TL, L1 habits would cause errors in the L2, and learners would transfer inappropriate properties of L1 It is important to know that L2 learners be likely to apply their L1 grammatical system in L2 grammar (Smith, 1994). They would opt for L2 words those they familiar, blending them using L2 grammar to formulate a sentence. For example; a Malay speaker would say; Saya makan epal semalam (Pronoun) (Verb) (Noun) (Adverb) Or in English; Yesterday, I ate the apple (Adverb) (Pronoun) (Verb) (Determiner) (Noun) If the L2 learners apply Smith argument, they would say; I ate apple yesterday As mentioned earlier, this statement is logical at one point but in other point, it shows that errors and transferred inappropriate properties those made by L2 learners are noticeable and this should apply the rule of contrastive analysis. However, this analysis has disadvantages. In Susan M. Gass and Larry Selinker words, they believe that this analysis is questioned because of the concept of difficulty as the basic theory of the contrastive analysis is concerning the difficultness. If an error is made by a person, this shows that the person has problem in some area, not because of the native language. Thus, we cannot presume that fluency of a L2 learner in L2 is depending on the nature of L1. There are more aspects that related to this matter. There are other factors that may influence the process of acquisition such as innate principle of language, attitude, motivation, aptitude, age, other language knownà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ (M.Gass Selinker, 2008). Next, contrastive analysis cannot d etect some difficulties experienced by the L2 learners. For example, Je vois les/elle/la/le . I see them/her/her/him(this phrase is not possible in French) (Choi, 2009). Error analysis is a type of linguistic analysis that focuses on the errors learners make (M.Gass Selinker, 2008). This analysis is almost the same with the weak version of contrastive analysis which is comparing the errors which made by L2 learners. However, error analysis is not evaluating the errors with L2 native language, but it compares with the target language. Error analysis provides a broader range of possible explanations than contrastive analysis for researchers/teachers to use account for errors, as the latter only attributed errors to the native language (M.Gass Selinker, 2008). I do agree with Gass and Selinker because as Corder (1967) says that by producing errors, it shows that the learners are progressing and participating.

Thursday, October 24, 2019

Look Homeward Angel :: essays papers

Look Homeward Angel A culturally enriching experience is an experience that is related to the arts and an intellectual activity, which makes you become a better person or makes you feel you have become a better person. Also, a culturally enriching experience is when you allow yourself to become more educated on a certain topic and it improves yourself. I feel the theatre, through plays, gives people a culturally enriching experience. By sitting in the audience and becoming involved in the play we are able to place ourselves in the shoes of the characters on the stage. We relate our own lives to theirs. Through this and the fact that when we go to see a play we are broadening are horizons allows us to have a culturally enriching experience. The play, Look Homeward, Angel, relates to my meaning of a culturally enriching experience. In the play there is this family who goes through many problems, an alcoholic father, a crazy mother, and a dieing son. With these problems audience members are able to relate to the pain and suffering that this family is experiencing. It is not that you can relate exactly to their problems, but the audience member knows what it feels to have family struggles. As I sat there watching the play, I became very emotional because I was able to relate myself to the youngest son because I, too, am the youngest in my family and know what it feels like to always be the one joked on or have a mother who takes up all her strength to finally let you go and become an adult. This play also shows people how the times where during that period and how money was a major struggle. The play, for two hours, makes you feel apart of this family and awakens your mind with knew knowledge, allowing for an experienc e that is culturally enriching. When it comes to recommending Look Homeward, Angel I definitely recommend it to men and women of all ages.

Wednesday, October 23, 2019

Tennis Research Paper

Tennis by Robin Seems Introduction First of all, tennis is a sport known all over the world. That allows you to enjoy entertainment with your friends or whatever and in addition doing some physical exercise. It also improves your coordination a lot. It can be played either at two (called single) or four (called double). As you can guess, tennis is a very difficult sport. Especially in three points: physically, mentally and technically. The rare goods players excel in these three points. About one hundred fifty players are earning their live thanks to this sport.It meaner that if you want to live with your passion, you'll need to e in the top hundred fifty of the world. Very tough. Thus, tennis is especially a game and need to stay one. Fair play and having fun are required. Of course, a lot of people are watching tennis on television, which is very loved. History First of all, tennis is a sport known all over the world. His roots came from several thousand years ago. History seems to say that the creators of tennis are the Europeans monks. As you can guess, the racket was not yet uses at this time.They were hitting the ball with their hands, and then they were wearing leather gloves. A big step came when the first ‘racket' appeared. Thus, progressively (in course of time), the racket evolved as well as the ball. To begin with, the ball was wooden. Currently the ball is in rubber, filled of air and covered with felt. About the racket, they also were wooden and very heavy compare to now. Right now, rackets don't weigh more than four hundred grams and are for most of them in synthetic fiber and aluminum. STRING STUFF ?BALL Different Shots Before talking about all the kind of shots, I would like to say that tennis require finesse, power and speed. The hardest think is to keep improving the two others skills hill working on the third one. Indeed, if you only work your power, logically your speed will decrease. It's one of the reasons why all the professionals' players are supported by a coach. Actually, more than one coach. Obviously there's one for the physical aspect, one for the tennis aspect and sometimes for the mental aspect. * Forehand and Backhand * The more important shots with the service because they are the base of your game.Almost every ball you'll hit will be a forehand or backhand. If the balls bounces before you hit them then it is called Forehand or Backhand. If you are right-handed hen the forehand is stroke on the right side and obviously the backhand on the left side. If you're left-handed then it is the opposite. It's worth for every shot. * Volley * Stroke before it bounces, volley has for purpose to win time on your opponent. Indeed, if the ball doesn't bounces, the opponent has less time to come back on the good position on the court.In addition, volley is mostly hit under your head. In the other hand, volley is a very difficult shot because it is harder to control the ball * Smash * Same characteristic than the v olley except that it is only stroke above the head. In addition, the shot is often more powerful. * Service * One of the more important shots because it's the first shot you hit to start the from the baseline in either the right or left side, it's exactly the same movement than the smash, except that you throw the ball yourself and she need to bounces in the opposite square.Rules ; court composition This website explain you the detailed rules in tennis. There's a lot of website showing the basic rules of tennis but the one I took is very clear and kind of detailed. It explains everything: the position the players must have on the court, how to count, hat's all the possible fault you can do (double fault, foot fault, etc. ) and as shown on the next page the dimension of the court. A perfect website for a beginner who want to start tennis. All about tennis To my opinion, this website is the best if you are very interested about tennis.Before all, TIFT meaner ‘International Tenni s Federation'. Also showing the very detailed rules, you can find whatever you want. Here is a list of what you can expect to find if you surf on this website: * All the news about tennis (Players, tournaments, presidents of big tournaments) * A ‘Pin online service' which meaner you can buy your own pin' which is required to play internationals tournaments Minor or senior) * A list of all the possible internationals tournaments. Articles about tennis: doping, nutrition, psychology, equipment, conditioning and many more * Headings about Feuded, Davisson, Olympic and Paralytic tennis event, etc. References: 1. Introduction -> me. 2. Http://www. Historicalness. Net/ History 3. Http://weakest. Kill 2. Oh. Us/Hilliard's/whose/tennis/tennis_rules. HTML Rules ; court composition 4. Different shots different shots 5. All about tennis All about tennis

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

Fredericton, the Capital of New Brunswick, Canada

Fredericton, the Capital of New Brunswick, Canada Fredericton is the capital city of the province of New Brunswick, Canada. With a downtown of only 16 blocks, this picturesque capital city provides the benefits of a larger city while still being affordable. Fredericton is strategically located on the Saint John River and is within a days drive of Halifax, Toronto, and New York City. Fredericton is a center for information technology, engineering, and environment industries, and is home to two universities and a variety of training colleges and institutes. Location of Fredericton, New Brunswick Fredericton is located on the banks of the Saint John River in central New Brunswick. See Fredericton Map Area of City of Fredericton 131.67 sq. km (50.84 sq. miles) (Statistics Canada, 2011 Census) Population of City of Fredericton 56,224 (Statistics Canada, 2011 Census) Date Fredericton Incorporated as a City 1848 Date Fredericton Became the Capital City of New Brunswick 1785 Government of City of Fredericton, New Brunswick Fredericton municipal elections are held every four years on the second Monday in May. Date of the last Fredericton municipal election: Monday, May 14, 2012 Date of the next Fredericton municipal election: Monday, May 9, 2016 Frederictons city council is made up of 13 elected representatives: one mayor and 12 city councilors. Fredericton Mayor Brad WoodsideFredericton City Council Fredericton Attractions New Brunswick Legislative AssemblyChrist Church CathedralHistoric Garrison DistrictKings Landing Historical SettlementScience EastBeaverbrook Art GalleryTrans Canada Trail Weather in Fredericton Fredericton has a moderate climate with warm, sunny summers and cold, snowy winters. Summer temperatures in Fredericton range from 20Â °C (68Â °F) to 30 Â °C (86Â °F). January is the coldest month in Fredericton with an average temperature of -15Â °C (5Â °F), although the temperature can dip to -20Â °C (-4Â °F). Winter storms often deliver 15-20 cm (6-8 inches) of snow. Fredericton Weather Forecast City of Fredericton Official Site City of Fredericton Capital Cities of Canada For information on the other capital cities in Canada, see Capital Cities of Canada.

Monday, October 21, 2019

Living in a Fantasy Professor Ramos Blog

Living in a Fantasy For centuries, gender roles have played a major role in society. Women had very little to no say in anything. In the story â€Å"Woman Hollering Creek,† gender roles are put into play. Along with the fantasy of living the life of a telenovela in which the protagonist, Cleofilas, sets to base her decisions on, her husband Juan Pedro does not fail to live up to expectations. Much like in telenovelas, there is always that one character in which seems to cause the majority of the problems; this character very much resembles Juan. In the story, Juan assigns Cleofilas the role of the housewife which does not have any say in what can be done. Like the stereotype of the woman being the vulnerable one in the relationship, Cleofilas fits just that. Juan does not fall behind in being the abusive and macho type figure. Machismo would be a much better character trait that runs throughout the story. All these aspects fit perfectly, much like a puzzle into those of a telenovela. The notion o f fantasy land, machismo and gender roles greatly describes Cleofilas’ life.   Nothing good can ever come from living in a fantasy land. From living one’s life with false hope to leading someone to one of the most dangerous of situations. Cleofilas attempts to live the life of a telenovela protagonist. Just as in telenovelas, the protagonist seems to be constantly running into obstacles. In Cleofilas’ case, Juan seems to always cause her harm. Not only does he drag her away from her family, but leads her straight to danger. The abusive side that came to characterize Juan, was not a good sight for Cleofilas. Although a sort of happy ending does occur when Felice saves her and helps her get away from her abusive husband, nothing good ever comes from living in a fantasy land. In the beginning of the story, Cleofilas’ father, Don Serafin, expressed something very important to her. â€Å"I am your father. I will never abandon you† (Cisneros 43) he expressed. However it turned out to be that it was not the father that broke his promise of never abandoning her, rather it was Clefilas who fled the scene. After Cleofilas’ husband, Juan Pedro, seeked permission from her father to take her hand in marriage, they rapidly fled. Similar to those traits of today’s society, the man usually makes the decisions on behalf of him and his partner. After leaving her family behind, Cleofilas was forced to start a new life. Her telenovela fantasy did not seem totally out of reach anymore. As usual, the telenovelas seen on tv never forgot to include the story’s villain which nobody seemed to distinguish from everyone else. In Cleofilas’ fantasy, the villain was right in front of her. After bareing Juan Pedro’s son, Juan Pedrito, his personality took a sharp turn for the worst. Removing one’s self from one country to the next is never easy. Especially when one does not know the language of the country they are in. After finding work, Juan Pedro seemed to be a really hard working character but also started to become the abusive partner. After long hours of work, he came home tired and frustrated drinking away his what seemed to be depression, he found a new way to remove steam. Turning to Cleofilas, things quickly turned to the dark side as Juan swung away towards her. She did not make the slightest attempt to defend herself because of the fact she wanted to like in her telenovela fantasy. She never sees the person being abused defend herself, so she just let it come to her. The macho type charisma seemed to be taking over Juan. He resembles the stereotypical man of the household taking control of the situation no matter what others may think. Taking advantage of the vulnerable and defenceless Cleofil as, Juan was at control. â€Å"..he slapped her once, and then again, and again; until the lip split and bled an orchid of blood,she didnt fight back, she didn’t break into tears, she didnt run away as she imagined she might when she saw such things in the telenovelas† (Cisneros 47). Just as it seemed that Juan let his manliness take over, he quickly turned into the full of emotion man who turned to Cleofilas to apologize just after he beat her forcefully. This happened over and over and over.   What seems to be the welcoming of a second child, a doctor visit seems to be in order. The only thing that seemed to be getting in the way was the extreme bruising Cleofilas was suffering from the beatings inflicted by Juan. Juan did not let her go to a doctors visit due to the fear he had that someone might assume something due to her many bruises. Cleofilas had to beg and beg. â€Å"But please, at least for the doctors visit.† (Cisneros 53) It seemed as if Cleofilas was anxious and needy for this doctors visit. She made it appear as if she knew something was going to happen. This course of action taken by Cleofilas is really similar to the environment provided by Saudi Arabia. Women are not allowed to travel or even apply for a passport without the approval of their male guardian (â€Å"Saudi Arabia†¦..†). Women do not have an ounce of freedom. It was not until 1955 that a school for women was established and in 1970 that the first university for women was establ ished in Saudi Arabia (â€Å"Women’s Rights in Saudi†¦.†). Much like Saudi Arabian women, Cleofilas is not allowed to go anywhere without permission of Juan. In the story, Cleofilas does not only live in a roller coaster filled with its ups and downs but most likely came out with some life lessons. In a world filled with machismo, gender roles and attempting to live in the aspects of a fantasy, Cleofilas seems to maneuver just fine. â€Å"Woman Hollering Creek† has not only demonstrated the paths of many women but also adds a pint of Sandra Cisneros’ Mexican Culture. Cisneros, Sandra. Woman Hollering Creek. Bloomsbury, 2004. Deutsche Welle. â€Å"Womens Rights in Saudi Arabia: A Timeline: DW: 07.01.2019.† DW.COM, dw.com/en/womens-rights-in-saudi-arabia-a-timeline/g-40709135. â€Å"Saudi Arabia: 10 Reasons Why Women Flee.† Human Rights Watch, 30 Jan. 2019, www.hrw.org/news/2019/01/30/saudi-arabia-10-reasons-why-women-flee.

Sunday, October 20, 2019

Free Essays on Media Bias

Introduction It is common knowledge that the media play a foremost part in America. Eighty million Americans count on television networks to get news. They make up their minds and create their own opinion in accordance with what they watch and see and, to a smaller extent, read. Americans are aware of the huge function the media play in their lives. 43% percent admit that TV networks play the most significant part in determining which issues and events are considered significant . The media’s role in political affairs is even more important: They obviously have the power to make a candidate likeable or†¦ repulsive. News media networks affect the public’s interest in politics by showing the people what they want them to see. Even if there are many issues in a campaign, the media will focus on the one they consider to be the most important, and other issues can be completely ignored. Given that general public cannot make clued-up decisions on public policy issues if the news on which they rely is deformed, it is obviously essential that TV news broadcasts and other media be just and impartial. However, there has always been much discussion about the so-called â€Å"media bias†. We will focus our study on polls and diverse data in order to discern why there is such a common idea, and if the media are actually politically biased. I. How the media take part in an election: 1- The media elite issue The graph below reveals that journalists and broadcasters have a serious tendency to lean on the left. This poll was conducted on 240 journalists working at the most influential national newspapers and networks, including the Washington Post, the New York Times, Time Magazine, the Wall Street Journal, U.S. News, Newsweek as well as CBS, ABC, PBS and NBC. What strikes us the most is that 81 percent (at least) of the journalists polled voted for the Democratic candidate in every election from 1964 to 1976. More precisely, in the ... Free Essays on Media Bias Free Essays on Media Bias Introduction It is common knowledge that the media play a foremost part in America. Eighty million Americans count on television networks to get news. They make up their minds and create their own opinion in accordance with what they watch and see and, to a smaller extent, read. Americans are aware of the huge function the media play in their lives. 43% percent admit that TV networks play the most significant part in determining which issues and events are considered significant . The media’s role in political affairs is even more important: They obviously have the power to make a candidate likeable or†¦ repulsive. News media networks affect the public’s interest in politics by showing the people what they want them to see. Even if there are many issues in a campaign, the media will focus on the one they consider to be the most important, and other issues can be completely ignored. Given that general public cannot make clued-up decisions on public policy issues if the news on which they rely is deformed, it is obviously essential that TV news broadcasts and other media be just and impartial. However, there has always been much discussion about the so-called â€Å"media bias†. We will focus our study on polls and diverse data in order to discern why there is such a common idea, and if the media are actually politically biased. I. How the media take part in an election: 1- The media elite issue The graph below reveals that journalists and broadcasters have a serious tendency to lean on the left. This poll was conducted on 240 journalists working at the most influential national newspapers and networks, including the Washington Post, the New York Times, Time Magazine, the Wall Street Journal, U.S. News, Newsweek as well as CBS, ABC, PBS and NBC. What strikes us the most is that 81 percent (at least) of the journalists polled voted for the Democratic candidate in every election from 1964 to 1976. More precisely, in the ...

Saturday, October 19, 2019

Leadership and managing human capital Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Leadership and managing human capital - Essay Example nagement and leadership styles to better interact with their subordinates and hence to improve employee productivity and organizational performance thereby. It must be noted that there is no single best leadership style that suits all leaders or organizations. Therefore, managers need to identify the leadership style that would fit them best in terms of their strengths and weaknesses and the nature of the organization. In order to evaluate the various roles and responsibilities of leaders and to assess the influence of leaders on the overall organizational performance, this paper will critically analyze six different scholarly articles talking about leadership models and managing human capital. In this paper, my personal leadership style and its relevance in the network and IT field (my area of work) will be scrutinized. Learning charisma is an article written by John Antonakis, Marika Fenley and Sue Liechti (2012). According to the authors, charisma is based on values and feelings. The concept of charisma represents an ability a leader must develop to persuade others, to promote personal and moral credibility, and to enhance followers’ emotions and passions. The authors particularly argue that charisma can be an invaluable asset in any worksite environment. Charismatic leaders can help their followers to understand, connect, compare, contrast, and remember a message. Undoubtedly, this mental process would greatly assist people to evaluate a message critically and to perform their tasks efficiently. In addition, charismatic leaders specifically foster engagement because they find it the best way to keep their followers active and excited. Integrity, authority, and passion are some of the major characteristics of charismatic leaders. Charismatic leaders not only give suggestions to their audie nce but also put all those ideals into practice in their daily life. What your leader expects of you and what you should expect in return is a research paper prepared by

Friday, October 18, 2019

Do economist matter Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Do economist matter - Assignment Example He points out that the public is uneducated in economic theories. Moreover, people and institutions of influence tend to muddle up these economic laws in order to server their own vested interest. Ultimately, the public is not only uneducated, they are also miseducated in the theories of economics and even refuse to be educated in these areas. In addition, even economists themselves rarely adhere to the economic theories that they themselves preach as they take into account external factors such as family security, pride, and societal acceptance. As such, economists end up sending messages that the public would be more comfortable to hear. This dilemma is further aggravated by the fact that economic theories have been, and may be, tested out on very limited platforms. Thus, economists usually have their hands tied and their tongues curled in defense of economic theories that may or may not work. Overall, Stigler illustrates that economists are almost always torn between being an academic who incessantly explains theories to an unaccepting public and an implementor whose proposals are periodically squashed by an unbelieving society. Either way, an economist’s quest for popularity and for influence will, in Stigler’s view, most likely lead him to parallel

Symbolism or Theme of the Story of Peter Pan Research Paper

Symbolism or Theme of the Story of Peter Pan - Research Paper Example The essay hereby aims to discuss the various symbolisms used in the story: ranging from the shadow, the manifestation of illusion, the kiss, acorn, crocodile, ticking clock and childhood. There are diverse forms of symbolism in the story. There is initially the shadow – the cause of Peter Pan’s sadness in trying to catch it and to have it reunited to himself. The shadow has been known to symbolize mystery and it cannot be seen without a form of illumination. It could also be interpreted as an alter ego: something integral to oneself that could exemplify characteristics and traits that parallel exactly one’s identity; but when viewed more closely, from an illumined wall or blank space, it could reflect an exact opposite of oneself. For Peter Pan, the shadow could symbolize escaping from fantasy into reality: from a magical world at Neverland, to the real world where children grow old. As such, Peter Pan’s sadness of losing it and trying to catch it manifest s his desire to remain eternally young and to live forever in a land of adventure and magic. By Wendy’s being able to catch it and tie it to Peter Pan by sewing the shadow to him, Wendy established a strong bond of attachment which assisted in regaining Peter Pan’s embodiment of freedom, youth, vitality, and carefreeness. Another symbolism was Peter Pan’s indication that he should not be touched. It indicates that Peter Pan was elusive and seems like just an illusion to many. As emphasized by Bjornsdottir, â€Å"not being able to touch him is a confirmation that he is an idea or concept and does not really exist† (12). This symbolism was also stressed in the message that indicates adults could not see him, as cited: â€Å"In his author’s comments he writes: â€Å"You can’t see Peter if you are old. They think he is a draught at the corner† (5.2 151). The comment refers to the people in the street who are too old to see Peter as he ho vers above it at Wendy’s window† (Bjornsdottir 14). The symbol of illusion persisted throughout the story as indicative of Peter Pan’s supposed magical persona which the author could have intended to remain the ultimate mystery in the main character’s identity: fleeting, elusive, dreamlike. Furthermore, there is symbolism in the kiss that was supposedly given to Wendy. According to Linwood, â€Å"the kiss represents not only Wendy's affection for Peter and her maturity beyond his, but also her compassion towards Peter in his moment of weakness. In exchange, Peter gives her an acorn† (par. 4). The acorn again is another symbol for strength and a token of appreciation for Wendy’s assisting him in catching his shadow. As a result, it was instrumental in saving Wendy’s life when it was disclosed that â€Å"the acorn on the chain around her neck, stops the arrow which Tootles fired at her on Tinkerbell’s command† (Linwood par. 5). Through the kiss which symbolized their affection for each other, it was revealed in further stories about Wendy when she eventually became old that despite aging, she could still apparently see him as he tries to visit Wendy’s grandchildren. In another scene, there is also symbolism in the crocodile that apparently ate Hook’s arm when Peter Pan supposedly cut it off in one of their previous encounters. The crocodile symbolizes death. It was reported to be following Hook ever since his arm was eaten by this

Non verbal assignment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Non verbal assignment - Essay Example ck sharp glance at me without a word and conveyed a reaction of unease by dropping one of her books with such force as to create a heavy slapping sound against the table. When I started to fidget and project some annoying movements, I heard her mumble something I could barely comprehend as she quickly, shall I say nastily, leafed through the book pages as if to almost rip off the sheets. On another occasion, I went as far as touching the surface of a notebook of a guy I believe is a sophomore who happened to make a sudden jerk getting up and took the thing away by impulse. To me, it seemed ambiguous to decide whether he meant to warn me of a possible trouble or if he merely intended to exhibit a nonverbal â€Å"block† to protect his property from my seemingly illogical act. Instead of proceeding to invade his territory by taking up part of his area, I unwrapped a candy which produced some scratchy noise especially when I bit on it in the manner that would make a louder disturbing sound. In a span of a minute, no verbal nor non-verbal reaction registered from his side but after a few minutes of biting the candy with the same degree of noise, the student motioned to sigh a few times as though he wanted to deliver a message that he could not concentrate on his reading. About the same findings resulted from the few other individuals in the library and the park. Perhaps my worst case of invasion was the time I stepped into the food court and literally occupied the seat which was obviously reserved for two ladies. Eventually, I got confronted with a scenario of being told that the place is already taken and I felt that I really got into their nerves as one of them spoke with raised volume and nasty inflections. Based on the aforementioned experiences, I could well imagine and sense the hard feelings each of the seven people went through in the process of having their right to territory stolen for a moment. Each of them demonstrated mostly unpleasant responses in return

Thursday, October 17, 2019

The Historical Evolution of the European Union from Its Earliest Research Paper

The Historical Evolution of the European Union from Its Earliest Post-War Beginnings under the Schuman Plan and the European Coal & Steel Community - Research Paper Example Introduction European integration was initiated in 1950 through the Schumann Plan, which established The European Coal and Steel Community (EASC). The aim was to confront fears that the dominance of Germany’s coal and steel industries could be detrimental to European post war reconstruction efforts or be harnessed to build a war machine (Lipgens and Loth, 1988). At a personal level, the plan’s chief architect, jean Monnet, hoped that the project would shore up French reconstruction plans and capacity by Europeanizing the technical planning process. Most proponents of the project hoped that ECSC would pave way for integration beyond coal and steel, and induce a more profound relationship (Sloan, 2005). The Robert Schuman Speech Robert Schuman, the French foreign minister acting on advice from his adviser jean Monnet, made a historical speech on 9th may 1950. The speech addressed pertinent issues affecting Europe such as the just ended World War Two, economic situation in European states, the unfolding cold war between Soviet Union and the US, the plague coup that facilitated the communist takeover in Czechoslovakia, the Berlin blockade, the first soviet atomic bomb, and forces in the USA advocating for a German rearmament (Lipgens and Loth, 1988). ... A high authority, later named as European Coal and Steel Community, was to overlook the Franco-German coal and steel industry. The perceived fusion of economic interests would raise standards of living and inspire the formation of a European community. Decisions of the proposed High Authority were to be binding on member states while the high authority was to be independent and have equal representation. The founding partners had to invent a unique law and avoid the principle of unanimity. As a result, the law designed was neither national nor international, but transnational or supranational as such; the EU law was in violation of some national laws and required a high social competence to practice (Gerber, 1998). Initially, the EASC had six founding members who consisted of Belgium, Germany, France, Italy, Netherlands, and Luxembourg. The 1957 Treaty of Rome created the European Common Community (ECC) or Common Market. The founding nations of the European Union sacrificed some of t heir sovereignty in favor of economic integration, supranational governance, and collective peace. The motive was to rise above nationalistic heroism that had dominated the early decades of the twentieth century, precipitating two world wars, loss of life, and economic destruction (Sloan, 2005). European political leaders wanted to end international strife, promote economic well being, foster social harmony, and build a better world free of rivalries and hatred. Therefore, the initial functions of the EU were to foster peace and prosperity (Sloan, 2005). There were two ideological approaches to European integration; the federalist approach advocated for local, national and regional authorities to cooperate and complement each other while the functionalist

English 2 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

English 2 - Essay Example The main difference between these two terms is that sympathy calls for people to merely look at a situation from the other’s point of view, while empathy requires a temporary detachment from the self, in order to truly experience what the other side is going through. To truly be empathetic, you will you will have to be an active participant in the other culture, as this will allow you to truly understand the events that have occurred. You do not have to change who you are and completely detach yourself from your own culture in order to achieve this, but must rather have the ability to truly involve yourself in the other culture and see the world from their perspective. Accepting that different cultures lead to people being very different themselves is an important part of this understand, as we have always been taught that all people were created equal. There is a difference, however, between equality and sameness, which must be understood in order for cultures to co-exist. Your anger is completely understood, especially if Fannie Taylor’s story is accurate, but you must look at this situation from the perspective of the people of Rosewood, if you truly want to work through your differences. You must begin by realizing that whites and blacks do have different cultures, although neither culture is superior or inferior. Despite these differences, however, neither culture believes that Fannie Taylor should have been assaulted, as this would have been a particularly heinous activity. Most people on both sides of this conflict would agree that this lone event was not responsible for the racial tension, but rather than this tension had been building for years. Therefore, we must get to the bottom of things of why this tension exists and hopefully prevent these things from happening in the future. You must realize that the black way of doing things is not wrong and put yourself in their situation. Most of these families did not even

Wednesday, October 16, 2019

Non verbal assignment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Non verbal assignment - Essay Example ck sharp glance at me without a word and conveyed a reaction of unease by dropping one of her books with such force as to create a heavy slapping sound against the table. When I started to fidget and project some annoying movements, I heard her mumble something I could barely comprehend as she quickly, shall I say nastily, leafed through the book pages as if to almost rip off the sheets. On another occasion, I went as far as touching the surface of a notebook of a guy I believe is a sophomore who happened to make a sudden jerk getting up and took the thing away by impulse. To me, it seemed ambiguous to decide whether he meant to warn me of a possible trouble or if he merely intended to exhibit a nonverbal â€Å"block† to protect his property from my seemingly illogical act. Instead of proceeding to invade his territory by taking up part of his area, I unwrapped a candy which produced some scratchy noise especially when I bit on it in the manner that would make a louder disturbing sound. In a span of a minute, no verbal nor non-verbal reaction registered from his side but after a few minutes of biting the candy with the same degree of noise, the student motioned to sigh a few times as though he wanted to deliver a message that he could not concentrate on his reading. About the same findings resulted from the few other individuals in the library and the park. Perhaps my worst case of invasion was the time I stepped into the food court and literally occupied the seat which was obviously reserved for two ladies. Eventually, I got confronted with a scenario of being told that the place is already taken and I felt that I really got into their nerves as one of them spoke with raised volume and nasty inflections. Based on the aforementioned experiences, I could well imagine and sense the hard feelings each of the seven people went through in the process of having their right to territory stolen for a moment. Each of them demonstrated mostly unpleasant responses in return

Tuesday, October 15, 2019

English 2 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

English 2 - Essay Example The main difference between these two terms is that sympathy calls for people to merely look at a situation from the other’s point of view, while empathy requires a temporary detachment from the self, in order to truly experience what the other side is going through. To truly be empathetic, you will you will have to be an active participant in the other culture, as this will allow you to truly understand the events that have occurred. You do not have to change who you are and completely detach yourself from your own culture in order to achieve this, but must rather have the ability to truly involve yourself in the other culture and see the world from their perspective. Accepting that different cultures lead to people being very different themselves is an important part of this understand, as we have always been taught that all people were created equal. There is a difference, however, between equality and sameness, which must be understood in order for cultures to co-exist. Your anger is completely understood, especially if Fannie Taylor’s story is accurate, but you must look at this situation from the perspective of the people of Rosewood, if you truly want to work through your differences. You must begin by realizing that whites and blacks do have different cultures, although neither culture is superior or inferior. Despite these differences, however, neither culture believes that Fannie Taylor should have been assaulted, as this would have been a particularly heinous activity. Most people on both sides of this conflict would agree that this lone event was not responsible for the racial tension, but rather than this tension had been building for years. Therefore, we must get to the bottom of things of why this tension exists and hopefully prevent these things from happening in the future. You must realize that the black way of doing things is not wrong and put yourself in their situation. Most of these families did not even

Comparing The Foresyte Saga Essay Example for Free

Comparing The Foresyte Saga Essay Both extracts explore the theme of adultery and extreme examples of conflict in a relationship. However, the differing time periods in which they are set and the contrasting ways in which the authors portray them, vary accordingly. In both extracts it appears that the female protagonists seem to be the source of the problem within the relationship and the extracts centre on their supposed adulterous behaviour. The two extracts differ because in Shakespeares Othello, the audience know that Desdemona has in fact not cheated on her husband, but his possessive nature and mistrust of her has warped his judgement. In Galsworthys novel, it is clear that the character of Irene clearly has been unfaithful through the description of her body language and the dialogue used, so youve come back. The men in both extracts have the controlling factor within their relationships, and suffer from possessive love. In Othello, his desire to control Desdemona and to have her all to himself because shes his wife, clouds his judgement on the situation; hed rather her dead than for her to be with any other man and break anothers heart. In Galsworthys novel, the man is indeed slowly losing control, but still tries to grasp it. His wife had gone off and had an affair and he wasnt able to control that. Now he tries to claw it back by shouting at her to leave, get out of my sight, and then contradicts himself by continuing to ask her to stay, which she obeys, and he is now in the stronger position. John Galsworthy uses animalistic imagery throughout this extract to show the way that Irene has become trapped: resemblance to a captive owl. This comparison also shows the way Irene has become vulnerable, having lost her independence and freedom. This mirrors the situation of Desdemona in Shakespeares Othello. In this scene Desdemona is entirely helpless, Othello having already decided what must be done as an alpha male: sweet soul, take heed of perjury: thou art on thy death bed. Shakespeares choice of language, for example, his use of imperatives, Down, strumpet! makes it clear to the audience how much in control Othello is. This control is echoed in Soames, who speaks with great authority and power: take your hated body out of my house Get out of my sight. Soames commands his wife here in a way that suggests he views her as a possession, who should not disobey him, emphasised in Galsworthys use of the image of Irene huddled in the fur, as though she is a belonging. Again Shakespeare reflects this idea in Othello, with the handkerchief used as a dramatic device embodying Desdemonas belonging to Othello, her supposed giving it away driving him to madness: I saw my handkerchief ins hand. Thou dost stone my heart. Neither Soames nor Othello can see the fault in their own actions, demonstrated by Galsworthy through rhetorical questions: Why should I suffer? What have I done? Irene, however, is left in a helpless place, the animalistic imagery continuing, likening her to a trapped bird, her spirit crushed and giving up, a bird shot and dying, taking farewell of all that is good the sun and air and its mate. This comparison also links back to Irenes now dead lover Bosinney, her partner, without whom she feels she is unable to function. Shakespeare uses stichomythia to create a passionate atmosphere. Short dramatic lines such as it is too late, build tension in the audience. John Galsworthy also uses speech to create tension but does so via the exposure of Soames thoughts. Take away that pitiful white face. Soames outburst is made particularly striking in the way that Galsworthy withholds excessive speech up until this point. Unlike Shakespeare who employs continuous dialogue and only one stage direction in this extract, to create a sense of a never ending flow of emotion. The structure used in Othello is used in the build up of tension, for instance the stichomythia used towards the end of the extract. This technique is commonly utilised to dramatic effect in plays. The structure in Othello is generally used advance the narrative and to further increase the build up of tension towards the dramatic climax at the end of the play. In the Forsyte Saga the structure allows the author to progress and elaborate on the metaphors used. Galsworthy uses the structure to put emphasis on certain words or phrases: so they sat, by the firelight, in the silence, one on each side of the hearth. Typically of a novel the structure shows the progressive thoughts of the narrator and isnt necessarily as linear as that in a play (ie Othello). Wider Reading: The poem My Last Duchess also carries the theme of adultery and extreme example of conflict in a relationship. Robert Browning doesnt make it clear whether the woman is guilty, but the Duke, like Othello is guilty of jealousy. He doesnt believe she treats her husband and different to any other men all and each, she liked whateer she looked on, and went everywhere, suggesting she flirted alot, not that the Duke has any proof. The repetition of that spot of joy emphasises how the fact her smile wasnt just reserved for him bothered him, so much so that he used the harsh language like Ann Galsworthys choice of Get out of my sight here, that in you disgusts me; here you miss, or exceed the mark, this shows his dark side and makes the reader question whether he killed her himself without knowing what she had done, similar to the way Othello acts on rage of his pride being damaged. The Duke also seems to be very possessive of the Duchess as is Othello and Soames Forsyte. Here he opens the poem Thats my last Duchess painted on the wall immediately highlighting he owns the painting, but also implies he owns her in person. He also seems to like the fact he can control who looks at the painting, the curtain I have drawn for you, but couldnt control who looked at his wife when she was alive. Additionally, in comparison to the imperatives Shakespeare and John Galsworthy use, Browning stresses the Dukes power through his quite forceful request, willt please you sit and look at her, almost as if the Duke is desperate for his audience to understand his anger, he states I gave commands, yet it seems she didnt obey him, hence he killed her, then all smiles stopped together.

Monday, October 14, 2019

Company overview: Astro All Asia Networks

Company overview: Astro All Asia Networks Astro All Asia Networks is a Malaysias leading cross-media group with significance presence in DTH (Direct-To-Home) TV services, commercial radio and TV programming. The group encompasses of seven different structures which includes MEASAT Broadcasting Network Systems (MBNS) or also known as Astro TV, Astro Entertainment Network (AEN), Airtime Management TV Programming Sdn Bhd (AMP) radio networks, Tayangan Unggul Sdn Bhd (TUSB), Astro Shaw Sdn Bhd, Measat Publications Sdn Bhd and Digital Five Sdn Bhd. Astro is owned by Binariang Sdn. Bhd. with 85% share and the remaining 15% is owned by Khazanah Berhad. In this study, we will take MBNS as the main organizational where sports marketing lies in this structure. MBNS was established in 1996 with 22 channels broadcasted on air. Today, MBNS broadcasts more than 125 pay-TV channels and serves to more than 2.93 million households including Malaysian TV households, rural and urban. Throughout the technology advancement, the group has paved its innovative roadmap from Standard Definition (SD) to B.yond featuring High Definition (HD) broadcast to Malaysia through Astro B.yond. Up till now, Astro TV has its own 12 HD channels on its platform. In MBNS, it is divided into seven divisions which are first, Broadcast and Operations, second is Commercial Services, third is Customer Marketing and followed by Communications, Customer Experience, Information Technology, Sales Distribution, Content Management Group, Regulatory and Government Relations, Customer Marketing and lastly Technology and New Media. MANAGEMENT TEAM Dato Rohana Rozhan Chief Executive Officer MEASAT Broadcast Network Systems Ahmad Fuaaad Kenali Chief Financial Officer MEASAT Broadcast Network Systems Dato Borhanuddin Osman Executive Director Airtime Management and Programming Sdn Bhd Zainir Aminullah Executive Director Astro Entertainment Sdn Bhd Raghvendra Madhav Executive Director India (based in New Delhi) Ken Wang Executive Director China (based in Beijing) Louis Foo General Manager MEASAT Publications Lakshmi Nadarajah General Counsel Astro CUSTOMER MARKETING TEAM In Customer Marketing, the division is sub-divided into four other segments which are firstly, Malay Segment Marketing including Malay Loyalty, secondly, Presence Marketing, followed by Chinese Marketing, Sports Marketing, and lastly International, Education, Indian and Others Segment Marketing. Diagram (1.0) below shows the divisional structure of customer marketing team: Molina Musa (Vice President) Shirley Tan (Ast.Vice President) Chinese Segment Marketing Nachiappan M.T Arasu (Ast. Vice President) Sports,International, Education and Others Herman Sophiaan (Ast. Vice President) Malay Segment and Presence Marketing Rosnah (Ast Vice President) Malay Segment Loyalty Ahmad Faisal (Ast. Vice President) Sports Marketing Nik Faidz (Ast. manager) Sabrina (Associates) Michelle Goh (Ast. Manager) Yeng Yeng (Associates) Sheila Mathavan (Associates) Jeevan (Associates) Emarina Kamal (Associates) Yvonne (Associates) Nurul Hidayah (Intern) Nur Nazihah (Associates) Sharol (Intern) Heryandy Ramli (Associates) Mohd Syafiq (Intern) BACKGROUND OF STUDY This study is conducted to identify the factors of successful sports marketing strategies in pay TV industry in Malaysia which is solely owned by Astro MEASAT Broadcast Network Systems Sdn Bhd. Astro is a leading pay TV with no major competition in this industry for over 10 years is providing its premium sports package in broadcasting the worlds best sports on air. The exclusivity of Astro in showing the worlds best sports has become its major success in up-selling the sports package. Since Astro is represented as a global business environment where most of the contents are taken internationally and disseminate in Asia, how well the firm can do profit and improve humanity can be the most important dimension to look at through deeper understand in consumers preferences and income level (Van R. Wood, Dennis A.Pitta, Frank J. Franzak, 2008). Astro sports marketing team is now trying to adapt to local consumer buying behaviour and needs that are driven by the differences in cultural norm s. This study later will determine how it can be one of the important factors taken into consideration to ensure the success of sports marketing program strategies. According to Vivienne Shaw (2000) is her study on successful marketing strategies of German companies in the UK, she had identify that strategic objectives and focus, customer targets, competitor targets and competitive advantage, and interaction of marketing mix play a major role to ensure success. Besides aiming to discover the correlation between customer marketing strategies implementation, it is also will determine the feedbacks from rewarding its current 1.53 million sports package subscribers through the execution of sports ground events and corporate social responsibility. However, the ultimate objective of sports marketing is to achieve 1.8 million subscribers and increase average revenue per user (ARPU) still hasnt reached yet. Therefore, in this study, we will also find ways on how Astro can achieve its target either by peer influence and freedom of choice in choosing the most updating sports content. As the sports pack is the most expensive pack among all packages availab le, the benefits that subscribers will gain from paying the fees to watch the best in the world sports will be determined throughout the research. PROBLEM STATEMENT Ideal approach to pursuit the marketing strategies are important to win the heart of sports package subscribers. Among the all content packages offered by Astro including the basic pack, sports package is the most expensive of all. To retain the customers from reverting to original pack combo by withdrawing the sports package in Astro packs can be a major problem face by the organization as consumers want the best value for every cent paid to watch the best worlds sports on air. Therefore, Astro needs to give the best value and sport contents available that worth paying by consumers. Another problem faced is to ensure exclusivity of Astro sports pack from other competitors in broadcasting industry such as RTM and TV3. According to Simon (1992, p.6), he stated that organisations must be able to manage the integration of market and technology as equally driving forces. With the technology advancement, sports pack can be integrated into incredible pack that competitors doesnt have such as watching sports game in high definition (HD) instead of standard definition (SD). The internal factors that influence the successful of sports marketing program are also been questioned on the level of its effectiveness. Major challenges for managers according to Eleri R. Thorpe and Robert E.Morgan (2007) are on how manager direct the efforts of talented employees in given time frame and how manager guarantee that aims mission of intended marketing strategy is clearly understood by employees. As consumers not only looking forward for the international sports team, it is also another drawback because Astro needs to fulfil the local consumers taste by broadcasting local game on air in the sports package. OBJECTIVES OF STUDY The objectives of conducting this research are: To discover the success factors sports marketing strategies in pay TV industry in Malaysia. To identify how sports marketing strategies will be able to cater and fulfil the differences in consumers preferences. To reward consumers with feeling of belonging through CSR and ground events organized by the Sports Marketing team. To identify the benefits gained when subscribers pay monthly fees to subscribe to Astro sports pack as compare to watch sports at non-pay TV station. RESEARCH QUESTION In conducting this research, the questions below need to be answered through observation, interview the internal parties or from consumers feedbacks. How Astro sports marketing strategies able to cater and fulfil the consumers preferences in terms of gender, cultural and income level differences? What can Astro sports marketing team do to make customers have the feeling of belonging through corporate social responsibility (CSR) and ground events to reward loyal customers? How Astro can provide freedom of choice in choosing the most updated sports content in any platform through the adaptation of marketing strategies and marketing mix? What are the benefits received or caused-related marketing effected the subscribers when they subscribes to the sports package and pay the monthly fees throughout the years in comparison with watching sports game broadcasted in non-pay TV? SIGNIFICANCE OF STUDY This study can be significance not only to the organization itself, but to customers and to the nation. Firstly, the researcher intended to discover the success factors of Sport Marketing strategies in pay TV industry in Malaysia for the benefit of the organization that helps to overcome the barriers and undesirable outcomes by learning all about the current subscribers and potential subscribers of sports pack. Secondly, this study also addressed to create awareness and positive identity that diverse Astro sports pack with other competitors in sports channel especially in non-pay TV. Another benefit of this study is to create more purchasing powers of consumers in deciding what give the best values for their money. They usually tied up with emotions when considering the purchase decisions. Therefore, through effective marketing strategies, it helps to derive consumers to make purchasing. As Astro is the main Asia pay-TV broadcaster and number one in Malaysia, it assist our country to come out with the technological advancement through the launching of High Definition channels that brings international; sports game lives together in HD direct to customers. It creates international brand image mutually will increase positive image of the nation. LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY This research is conducted to identify what are the factors that sports marketing strategies can be successful in retaining the existing sports pack subscribers and attracting potential sports pack subscribers in pay TV industry in Malaysia. Thus it will be restricted only to observation, interviews and secondary data such as annual report. Observation that will be made internally in the organization itself (Astro) by interviewing the samples which is the top level manager in sports marketing team and the employees. Through observation during the ground events and corporate social responsibility done by the team, it helps to determine the success factors. Besides that, the external samples such as Astros customers, sports viewers regardless they are Astro subscribers or not on and consumers with difference genders and income level can be used to obtain results on the level of effectiveness of sports marketing strategies. Those vendors including event agency and producer of sports merchandises who have collaborated with Astro to sustain the premium sports packs can contribute in giving feedbacks and opinion regarding the success factors of Astro Sports Marketing through interview and supporting documents. DEFINITION OF TERMS Sports Sports can be clearly defined as an organized, competitive, and skilful physical activity and it is governed by set or rules and customs. For example of sports are football, badminton, and tennis. Marketing Marketing is a management process through which goods and services move from the concept to customer. As practice, it consists in coordination of four elements called 4Ps which are development of product, determination of price, advertising and publicity namely promotion and selection of distribution which is place. Subscribers As stated in www.thefreedictionary.com, subscribers is defined as to contract to receive and pay for a certain number of issues of a publication, for tickets to a series of events or performances, or for a utility service. In this study context, the subscribers are those who subscribes to Astro sports pack. Consumers behaviour In study conducted by Olympia Business School on Consumer behaviour, they had identified that consumer behaviour means how individuals make decisions to spend their available resources (time, money, and effort) on consumption-related items. It includes the study of what they buy, why they buy it, when they buy it, where they buy it, how often they buy it, and how often they use it. Demographic Factors Demographic factors are characterized by statistical socio-economic characteristic or variables of a population which includes age, sex, education level, income level, marital status, occupation, religion, birth rate, death rate, average size of a family, average age at marriage. Pay TV Pay TV, premium TV or premium channels refer to subscription-based television services, usually provided by both analogue, digital cable and satellite but also increasingly via digital terrestrial and internet television. In this study context, researcher is referring to Astro as the premium pay TV industry in Malaysia. ARPU ARPU is defined as a measure of the revenue generated per user or unit. Average revenue per unit allows for the analysis of a companys revenue generation and growth at the per-unit level, which can help investors to identify which products are high or low revenue-generators. SUMMARY This study is conducted to identify the success factors of sport marketing strategies applied by the marketing team in pay-TV industry. By using the qualitative measures to conduct this study, it will focus more on finding evidence to answer the research questions. Data will be collected through primary data collections which are interview and observation. Besides that, secondary data collection also will be used such as from the annual report. This study is conducted within the organization itself and consumers feedbacks and point of view towards marketing strategies of sports marketing. Researcher used Judgment Sampling method and Convenience Sampling method. To analyze the findings and data, it will be analyze through Content Analysis, event Analysis and Phenomenology Analysis and there is no computer software involve analyzing the data. CHAPTER 2 LITERATURE REVIEW CONSUMERS DIFFERENCES AND PREFERENCES Different consumer has their own perceptions towards the need of subscribing to the Astro sports package. Through segmenting customers into geographic, demographic, psychographic and behavioural attributes, it helps to identify potential market for up selling the sports pack. According to Helen Reijonen and Tommi Laukkanen (2009), the advancement in information technologies had enable enterprises to collect more and in-depth information about their customers and make it useful for strategic business purpose. Besides that, through consumers socialization, it is also will affect the acceptance of sports package regardless of gender and culture. In research conducted by Luiz Moutinhon and Pedro DionÄ ±Ã‚ ´sio and Carmo Leal (2008) in the process of socialization can be seen as a deliberated act of identity construction the neophyte member begins to deliberately adopt mannerisms, attitudes, and styles of dress, speech, and behavior that he or she perceives to be characteristic of established members. Consumers also will be influenced with the brand image of TV broadcaster in order for them to decide whether to subscribe or not with the pack. Peter Drinkwater and Mark Uncles (2007) examined the impact of program brands on consumer evaluations of television and radio broadcaster brands and come out with finding stated that a successful program on a particular TV/radio station, consumers are likely to improve their perceptions of quality of the broadcaster. That is, the broadcaster brand image is likely to be enhanced. SPORTS MARKETING GROUND EVENTS AND CSR Sports package offered by Astro is currently the premium pack that offers the best sports in the world. Thus, all the sports fans in Malaysia depending on level of income who dont want to missed the live game broadcasted in sports channel will definitely subscribes to the sports package. According to Luiz Moutinhon and Pedro DionÄ ±Ã‚ ´sio and Carmo Leal (2008), in sports activities have always constituted an essential component of free time occupation TV in contemporary societies and in Europe, broadcasting and live attendance of sport games join together every year millions of supporters. The 2006 World Cup was seen in 154 countries by a total of 354,000 of million spectators. This showed that the sports game broadcasted in TV has its own superiority to attract more viewers to subscribe to Astro sports pack. However, to retain the customer loyalty from withdrawing the sports pack, the important of ground events and corporate social responsibility needs to be done. In study done by Anne-Marie Hede examined how special events, such as sporting, cultural, political, historical, religious or commercial/business events, provide opportunities for attendees to have memorable experiences communities to build social capital and for governments to induce new income into their economies though increased tourism and business activities. She also point out that large events such as the Olympic Games can customize product features and develop selling techniques tailored to local customs and cultures. MARKETING STRATEGIES Marketing strategies is the most important principle that needs to be determined to cater target market. With appropriate marketing mix 4Ps including product, price, place and promotion adapted; it helps to ensure success for sports marketing in pay TV industry. In research conducted by Anthony R. Bennet (1997), he stated that when organizations apply the marketing mix principle to market making, targeting the customer, it will involves giving value in relation to quality, value for money, reliability, product performance, cost effectiveness, fitness for purpose and so on. Water Wymer (2011) in his research Developing More Effective Social Marketing Strategies stated that social marketers have tended to limit their choice of set of social marketing strategies to various applications of 4Ps aiming to change individual behaviour and attitudes. However, some barriers may arise that caused marketing strategy to fails. Another research conducted by Water Wymer (et.al) if the social marketing strategy fails to remove an environmental barrier, the social marketing programs effectiveness will be lessened. In relation to this, Anthony R.Bennet (et.al) came out with a findings that channeling an organizational resources into the provision of products and services, it is argues that such strategic focus, on behalf of the organization concerned, will ultimately achieve the objectives set out. Organizational marketing activities will be influenced through publicity and helps to enhance brand image. According to Harlam E.vSpotts and Marc G. Weinberger, both communications activities might play a central role in developing and shaping the corporate brand. BENEFIT AND CAUSE-RELATED MARKETING EFFECTS The first question that always lingers in customers mind is whether the money they are paying is worth the value they receive when subscribing to the premium sports pack. In study conducted by Rob Docters, Raul Katz, Jerry Bernstein and Bert Schefer (2010), customers must first learn about the product and service, use and appreciate the value and lastly reassessment the value and benefits they gained. This research also came out with findings that familiarity of products will lead to usage and enjoyment of product and service. Besides that, through enjoyment of usage, it will leads to higher utility and satisfaction. Individuals also may derive the strength and sense of identity as they are socializing through groups. This can say to be a benefit when they gather together and use sports content as mean to socializing. According to Leal Luiz Moutinho, Pedro DionÄ ±Ã‚ ´sio and Carmo (et.al), individuals are unable to form self-images in the absence of a social identity derived from group affiliations. Stronger identification leads the individual to attribute desirable characteristics of the group to the self, and to assume a greater similarity with other group members. CHAPTER 3 RESEARCH DESIGN PURPOSE OF THE STUDY The purpose of this study is to determine to what extend that the Sports Marketing team has done its strategy to get Malaysian households to subscribe to Astro sports pack which currently the most expensive pack among all pack is offered by Astro. Up until now, it has 1.53 million subscribers of sports pack. Since its a customer base type of business, Sports Marketing has done excessive marketing strategies including content, pricing, package quality and customer loyalty to ensure the success. TYPE OF STUDY In conducting this study, the researcher has chosen the Qualitative method to discover the success factors of sports marketing strategies and it does not involve any measurement and statistical data. This type of study is more to finding the answer through evidence and providing textual description on the study. It is done through naturalistic and participant observation and also through interview. SAMPLING Throughout the research, the sampling techniques used in conducting this study are firstly Convenience Sampling Techniques, which involve in engaging the most accessible subjects mainly, the sports packs subscriber. Secondly, sampling technique use is a Judgment Technique by selecting the most productive sample to answer the research questions. Researcher decided to choose the Sports Marketing team itself in MBNS, vendors that engage with the events organized by the team, and feedbacks from useful potential candidates through their experience and public attitude towards the study. DATA COLLECTION In collecting data for this study, the primary method used is by internal observation throughout the meetings, ground events and planning of marketing strategies. Besides that, it also can be collected through interviewing the respective sports marketing team regarding the on-going process of marketing strategies and their perceptions toward customer acceptance of their marketing effort. Vendors and event agencies that engage directly with the sports marketing team also can provide data through interview on their point of view and also external observation. Lastly, another way of collecting data is through the secondary data which is the Astro Annual Report. CHAPTER 4 FINDINGS CONSUMERS DIFFERENCES AND PREFERENCES In Malaysia, there are many consumers differences that need to be taken aware before we want to market our products or services. Seeing that we are rich with multiracial, religions and ethnicities, sometimes we have a tendency to forget that all of us have differences in tastes and preferences. According to the Vice President of Astro Customer Marketing, Madam Molina Musa, in depth identification and segmentation of target market according to their demographic, psychographic and behavioural factors must be clearly acknowledged in order to ensure we achieve our target. Organizations must identify and target the most attractive market segments to ensure they can serve their products and services effectively. During the process of segmenting the target market for Astro sports pack, there are several key points to ensure the marketing team does not make any mistake thus affecting the marketing process. The segments that they are targeting first must be identifiable or easy to define and measure such as the income level. Second is it must be sizeable or large enough to be worth going after, this means that the market size is big to respond. Third is accessible which mean the market must be easy to reached when the company is doing promotion and through distribution such as media infrastructure and facilities. Another important factor is the market must be stable which means theres no war and crisis. The market also must be responsive to the marketing strategies and take action towards it such as by making purchasing. These key points also is supported in a book titled Global Marketing. In pay TV industry, the first and foremost important target market that they are aiming is depending on age, income level, lifestyle, viewing pattern and either they are housewives (HWs) or Professionals, Managers, Executives or Businessman (PMEBs). However, according to Nik Mohd Faidz, 29, Assistant Manager of Astro Customer Marketing, the main target for sports channel is to target those who are in PMEBs category. PMEBs usually are those who are age between 25 to 60 years old, and their main viewing time will be after office hour which is between 8 pm to 12 am and their ARPU is above RM100, which means they will spend more than RM100 to pay for the pay TV services. Another factor that ensures success for the sports marketing team to up sell the sports pack is when they are able to segment their target market according to their area whether they are from rural or urban, age, gender, behaviour and culture. For those who are living in urban area such as Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru, Georgetown Penang, they are more likely to watch international sports tournament such as Barclay Premiere League for football, NBA All Star Game for basketball, Formula One and maybe The President Cup for golf. Hence this type of consumers preferences will opt to watch Astro Supersports, ESPN, Golf channel and STAR sports or Eurosport. In contrast, those who are living in rural area such as in Kelantan and Kedah, they are more interested to watch Malaysian sports tournament such as Badminton, Malaysian Bowling tournament, Malaysian Football. Therefore, they will opt to Astro Arena since the channel only shows local sports updates and it is free. This statement is agreed by Venu Ramadass, the Astro ARENA president. ARENA also offers customers the 24-hour nonstop coverage of major regional and local sporting events as well as in-depth and extensive news coverage of matches and developments concerning local sports and athletes. However, during the big event that will attract all sports fan regardless where they come from, such as Thomas Cup, World Cup, they will definitely choose those channels that shows the live broadcasted matches. The differences and preferences of consumers can be furthered explain and summarized in the diagram below. Diagram 1.0 CREATE AWARENESS THROUGH GROUND EVENTS AND CSR Another factor that leads to success of Astro Sports is through the excessive ground events organized by the team to create relationship between subscribers and the organization. It is one of the marketing teams manners to encourage direct participants and involvement to get connected with subscribers, says Mr. Herman Aziz, Assistant Vice President for Customer Marketing in Greenfield segment. For Ground event here means events, road shows, tours, and concerts or street party held during the live match or to reward loyal customers. For example, during the Astro Barclays Premiere League (BPL) Viewing Party, Astro marketing has allocated roughly about RM100, 000 to run twelve ground events that associate with BPL live match. Latest, during the match between Manchester United and Liverpool, held on 6th March 2011 at Bola Bistro, Sunway Giza, Damansara, Astro has specially invited thirty lucky astro sports pack subscribers and twenty seats were allocated exclusively for both media and VVIP. According to Rakesh, Manager of event agency, Rhythm Production who was appointed by Astro Sports team to manage the ground events, the main purpose for inviting media is to gain positive feedback and to get them covered positive news to be featured in newspaper, sports magazine and television. VVIP that were invited usually those top managers from Astro team and sponsors such as Panasonic, Maxis and MYEG. Astro also will get the sportsmen, locally or internationally to involve with these kinds of road shows or tours so subscribers can get connected with sports player. For example, during the Master Football Asia, Astro has collaborated Football All Asia as one of the top sponsor to sponsor the tickets to lucky subscribers to watch the game played by star players from Manchester United, Liverpool and EPL All Stars such as Andy Cole, Robbie Fowler and David Seaman. Another example is during Astro Arena ground event in Malaysia, they will bring along the local sports men and also their ambassadors to join and interact with subscribers such as the famous Malaysian goalkeeper, Khairul Fahmi. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) also plays an important role to ensure the success for marketing programme. Known as corporate citizenship, it is functioning as a companys responsibility towards society and environment by encouraging a positive impact through activities. It must be aligned with ethical standards, country law and norms to avoid any negative effects in a business environment. With collaboration with the loyalty team and community affairs, Astro sports marketing can deliver the message directly to subscribers. For example, Astro sports marketing organized a Kem B.O.L.A as one of their CSR effort to students in primary school. This Kem B.O.LA, according Venu Ramadass, is functioning as a clinic to give intensive training to selected students with high potential in football and to motivate them as well as nurturing their sense of sportsmanship and competitiveness Another clinic was organized by Astro incorporation with BMW team to give intensive training to those amateur tennis players. It was called Astro Tennis Clinic that was held recently, in March 2011. Besides clinic and intensive training, Astro sports marketing and loyalty team will work together to help those who are unfortunate by giving free tickets to watch football matches, to participate in ground events and also charity dinner. ADAPTATION OF MARKETING STRATEGIES AND MARKETING MIX The adaptations of marketing strategies are strongly allied with the four Ps which are Product, Price, Place and Promotion. In general, a business entity needs a product that has potential to be sold, at reasonable price, has a medium to deliver the product to market and promotion efforts to inform the potential buyers about the product. All these Ps are inter-related with one another. According to the Assistant Vice President of Sports Marketing, Mr. Ahmad Faisal, if one of these Ps is not available, the products will not success in marketplace. He also further explain on all of the four Ps functions in details as per below. The first P is product and it can be defined as tangible or intangible goods and services that a seller offers a buyer to purchase. Tangible products here mean go