Learn How to Use the Present Continuous Tense

The present continuous tense, also known as the present progressive, is one of the most commonly used verb tenses in English. It is one that English learners  frequently confuse with a similar tense, the present simple. Present Continuous vs. Present Simple The present continuous tense expresses something that is happening at the moment of speaking. It is frequently used in conjunction with time expressions  such as right now or  today to indicate that an action is occurring at that moment. For instance: What are you doing at the moment?Shes reading in the garden now.Theyre not standing in the rain. Theyre waiting in the garage.   In contrast, everyday habits and routines are expressed using the present simple tense. Its common to use the present simple with adverbs of frequency such as usually or sometimes. For example:   I usually drive to work.Alice doesnt have to get up early on Saturdays.The boys play soccer on Friday evenings. The present continuous is used only with action verbs. Actions verbs express things that we do. The present continuous is not used with  stative verbs  that express a feeling, belief, or state of being, such as hope or want.   Correct: I hope to see him today.  Incorrect:  I am hoping to be  seeing him today.Correct: I want some ice cream right now.Incorrect: I am wanting some ice cream right now. Using the Present Continuous In addition to expressing actions that are currently taking place, the present continuous can also express actions that are happening at or around the present moment in time. For example: What are you doing tomorrow afternoon?She isnt coming on Friday.Were working on the Smith account at the moment. This tense is also  used for future plans  and arrangements, especially in business. Where are you staying in New York?She isnt coming to the presentation on Friday.Im flying to Tokyo next week. Sentence Structure The present continuous tense can be used with positive, negative, and question sentences. For positive sentences, conjugate the helping verb be and add ing to the verbs end. For example: Im (I am) working today.Youre (You are) studying English at the moment.Hes (He is) working on the report today.Shes (She is) planning a vacation in Hawaii.Its (It is) raining right now.Were (We are) playing golf this afternoon.Youre (You are) not paying attention, are you?Theyre (They are) waiting for the train. For negative sentences, conjugate the helping verb be, then add not plus ing to the verbs end. Im not (I am not) thinking about my vacation right now.You arent (You are not) sleeping at the moment.He isnt (He is not) watching the TV.She isnt (She is not) doing her homework today.It isnt (It is not) snowing today.We arent (We are not) staying in New York.You arent (You are not) playing chess at the moment.They arent (They are not) working this week. For sentences that ask a question, conjugate be, followed by subject and a verb ending in ing. What am I thinking?What are you doing?Where is he sitting?When is she coming?How is it doing?When are we leaving?What are you eating for lunch?What are they doing this afternoon? Present Continuous Passive The present continuous can also be used in the passive voice. Remember that the passive voice conjugates the verb to be.  To construct, a passive sentence, use the passive subject plus the verb be plus ing and the  past participle. For instance: Cars are being made in this factory at the moment.English is being taught by the teacher now.Steak is being eaten by the people at table 12. Additional Resources Want to learn more about the present continuous tense? Check out this teachers guide for additional exercises and tips.

Compare And Contrast Martin Luther King And Thoreau Civil...

When It’s OK to Disobey Martin Luther King Jr.’s â€Å"Letter from Birmingham Jail† and Henry David Thoreau’s â€Å"Civil Disobedience† collectively persuade their audiences to disobey authority when it concerns social injustice. King takes a more assertive yet respectful approach, and makes it a point to explicate the intolerable treatment that the black community had to endure under the encroachment of segregation laws. In addition, Thoreau expounds why it is so important for citizens to object and take action upon the corrupt laws that the government had imposed on the blacks, insisting that civil disobedience is a means of freedom. Both of these influential men successfully utilize occasion, purpose, tone, appeals and rhetorical strategies to†¦show more content†¦Though the specifics concerning who these essays were written for can be interpreted differently, the common men and women of America collectively heard and responded to these essays. The primary goal of a persuasive essay is to either convince the reader to agree with the author’s point of view, or at least prompt the audience to proceed in taking a specific course of action. Because Thoreau very vocally opposed the government at this time, he didn’t necessarily urge people to abandon it altogether, rather he desired that â€Å"every man make known what kind of government would command his respect, and that will be one step toward obtaining it† (408). In addition, he advocated that people would oppose the unjust laws of the government by performing acts of civil disobedience when it is necessary. King takes a very similar approach in his essay, but also makes it a point to defend both himself and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. He aims to bring about reform and immediate action as he states that â€Å"justice too long delayed is justice denied†(224). He seeks to direct national attention to the Civil Rights Movement with the hope that his words might bring about good consequences and thus change. The efforts that

Employees With Passion - An Appreciation Program Sample

Questions: 1. What makes Hot Topic so successful as a retailer? What makes them so popular with their employees? How can they keep their success going?2. How does the idea of no walls and no doors in the corporate headquarters encourage the culture Hot Topic is trying to perpetuate? Do you think you would like to work in such an atmosphere? Answers: 1. Hot Topic Incorporated is successful as a retailer as it authorizes different goods like accessories, T-shirts and clothes geared towards the pop culture by putting an emphasis on the trends of modern music. It can be said that the firm proposes numerous cultural accessories along with clothing and cultural items aimed at young market segment. Moreover, the CEO of the firm considers that the unique corporate culture within the organization is based on an enthusiasm for a concept, which helps the firm to run successfully. The company provides a healthy environment to work, thus, the employees can fit in well and are also appreciated for their contribution to the firm. The company provides various perquisites like concert reimbursement and employee of the month program along with 9/80 program and many more in order to satisfy the employees. The senior executives of the firm can talk to the customers along with their employees regarding the operation and services provided. This will help to generate more innovative ideas and programs and implementation of these will make the firm able to run successfully (Ciccarelli White, 2012). 2. The proposal of no doors, no walls in the commercial headquarters of the particular firm encourages its culture as this takes importance off hierarchy, persuades cooperation and open style announcement (Bernstein, 2012). Yes, any individual would like to work in such an environment as it promotes collaboration and open communication. References Bernstein, D. (2012).Psychology. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth, Cengage Learning. Ciccarelli, S. White, J. (2012).Psychology. Upper Saddle River: Pearson Prentice Hall.

Who do you think Miller intended us to feel sympathy for Essay Example

Who do you think Miller intended us to feel sympathy for? Essay Marco goes to America solely to make money. He is quiet and serious and he is very protective of Rodolpho, his brother. When Eddie hurts Rodolpho in their friendly boxing match, Marco senses trouble and shows Eddie indirectly that he is stronger by lifting up the chair. This is as if to say, You think you are strong hurting my brother but if you fight me I can beat you. Eddie betrays him and his brother to the authorities so that they will be sent back to Italy. He can no longer achieve his goal of making money to support his poor family in Italy, and because of this Marco accuses Eddie of starving his children and kills him in a fight. The killing is unnecessary and sad. However, Marco is provoked by Eddie who draws the knife and attacks first. Marco is stronger and he acts in self-defense; Eddie brings upon his own death thinking that he is defending his own reputation and name. Throughout the play, Miller uses the character Alfieri as the narrator and as a means to influence the audience. Alfieri is a third party outsider of the situation but he knows what is going on through his talks with Eddie. This means he is inside the action while commenting on it from the outside. This makes him the perfect character to present exactly what Arthur Miller wishes to put across to the audience. His role is very important to tell the audience what is happening and to influence how they feel. Through him, Miller encourages the audience to feel sympathetic towards Eddie. At the start of the play, an introduction is given by Alfieri which ends with him describing how he sat there as powerless as I, and watched it run its bloody course. We will write a custom essay sample on Who do you think Miller intended us to feel sympathy for? specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Who do you think Miller intended us to feel sympathy for? specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Who do you think Miller intended us to feel sympathy for? specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer Alfieri knows from the start that a tragedy is in the making. He tells this to the audience right in the beginning, thus projecting a sense of foreboding, of inevitable tragedy. In this way Eddie gains the audiences sympathy because he is presented as a doomed figure. In the middle of the play, after a conversation between Alfieri and Eddie about Catherines relationship, Alfieri says, I could see every step coming, step by step, like a dark figure walking down a hall toward a certain door. Alfieri sees the hopelessness in the whole situation and he tries to persuade Eddie to compromise but he knows Eddie will not listen to reason. Once again Alfieri predicts the inevitable. In the end, Eddie dies a pointless death not realizing that his stubbornness has caused his own demise. The tragedy is avoidable if Eddie is willing to settle for half; yet it is inevitable because of the community he lives in and their own traditional beliefs. The people around him are not normal law-abiding Americans. They are a community of Italian immigrants bringing from Italy with them their virtues, beliefs and ways of life. Justice is not dealed out by the law. Rather it is taken into the citizens own hands to do as they think right. Eddie betrays his own people therefore breaking the code of his own community; yet he tries to defend his own name which leads to the fight and his own death. However, Miller encourages the audience to feel sympathy for Eddie. After Eddie dies, Alfieri says, I know how wrong he was, and his death useless, but, something perversely pure calls me to his memory. He expresses his sympathy towards Eddie pointing out that, although Eddie was very wrong, he died for his name and he died for honor. Alfieri reminds the audience that Eddie was not in the right but he was true to himself not purely good, but himself purely. Due to this Alfieri respects him and mourns him but with a certain alarm. Right till the end, Arthur Miller uses Alfieri to influence the audience to feel sympathy for Eddie. In the end however, I felt most sympathy towards Beatrice. Throughout the play she is neglected by all the other characters especially her husband. All the while watching Eddie and Rodolpho fighting over Catherine. She feels jealous but not angry and tries to persuade Eddie to let Catherine go. She wants Catherine to be happy and encourages Catherine to go away with Rodolpho. She is constantly trying to ease the tension and she tries to resolve arguments between all the characters because she wants to do what is best for everyone. Unfortunately, despite her efforts, she watches her family fall apart and the death of her beloved husband, who dies in her arms saying, My B.! Perhaps, Eddie finally realizes too late what he really has to lose.

The Achievement of True Happiness Essay Example For Students

The Achievement of True Happiness Essay PlotThe novel, Sister Carrie, written by Theodore Dreiser commences in1889 with Caroline Meeber, an innocent, naive eighteen-year-old girl,departing from her home in Columbia City to reside with her sister Minniein Chicago. While on the train, Carrie encounters a young man by the nameof Charles Drouet, whom she hopes to visit with once she settles into hernew residence. Unfortunately, Carrie learns that she will be unable toreceive Drouet as a houseguest at her sisters flat. Carrie is encouragedto search for employment in order to facilitate her sister and brother-in-law in paying their rent. She manages to hold down a job for a shortperiod of time but then falls ill. After regaining her strength, Carriehas trouble locating another job.Coincidentally, she reencountersDrouet and takes him up on an offer to move in with him. Soon after Carriesettles into her new living arrangement, Drouet invites his friend,Hurstwood, over to meet her. Carrie and Hurstwood fall in love despite thefact that he is married and believes that she is Drouets wife. Upondiscovering that Hurstwood is married, Carrie becomes upset and refuses tocontact him any longer. Drouet moves out after his discovery that Carriehas been meeting with Hurstwood behind his back. Subsequently, Hurstwoodsteals ten thousand dollars from the safe where he works and tricks Carrieinto traveling to Canada with him. The pair settles in New York andHurstwood begins a fruitless search for employment. A long period of timeelapses and Hurstwood, who had been a member of high-society in Chicago, isunable to obtain a job. Carrie abandons him and pursues her dream ofbecoming an actress, while living with her friend, Lola Osborne, who isalso an actress. Carrie becomes successful, yet she never achieves thestate of happiness based on material possessions that she left ColumbiaCity to pursue at the commencement of the novel. Rather, she discoversthat her ideal happiness is merely an unattainable illusion. We will write a custom essay on The Achievement of True Happiness specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now CharactersCaroline Meeber, often referred to as Carrie by most other characters,serves as the character whose actions the reader follows throughout thecourse of the novel. Carrie represents the opportunity for advancementwithin the class system that Dreiser creates for the novel. She believesthat becoming a part of high-society will allow her to obtain the happinessthat she so desires. She begins as part of the lower stratum of societyand climbs higher through her relationship with Drouet. Although Carrieenjoys her improved social standing, she still wishes for more. She wishesto be part of the high-class society that Hurstwood represents. Her goalthroughout the novel remains to achieve happiness by acquiring enough moneyand status in order to gain access to high society. Carrie alsoacknowledges that she does not desire to return to where she came from. She could possibly have conquered the fear of hunger and gone back; thethought of hard work and a narrow round of suffering would, under the lastpressure of conscience, have yielded, but spoil her appearance?-be oldclothed and poor-appearing?-never! (Dreiser 81) Rather than achievinghappiness, at the conclusion of the novel, after Carrie has obtained boththe money and independence she so desired, she realizes that she is stillalone. Amid the tinsel and shine of her state walked Carrie, unhappy.(399)Minnie Hanson, Carries sister in Chicago, represents the beginning ofCarries search for something better. The sisters do not have much incommon. Minnie was no comparison for her sister-she was too old. (41)When Minnie greets her in Chicago, Carrie, feels cold reality takingher by the hand. (8) Minnie serves as Carries transition between livingat home with her family and living alone with a man in the real world.George Hurstwood epitomizes the achievement of the American dream,even still to day. He possesses money and a seemingly perfect family;however, as is often the case, Hurstwoods residence could scarcely besaid to be infused with this home spirit. (68) To Carrie, Hurstwoodrepresents everything that she desires to be and to have. She falselyinfers that he must be happy; for he has everything that one could possiblydesire. She falls in love with him and until they are in New York does notrealize that underneath all of his possessions and wealth, he hasimperfections similar to those of Drouet, or any other man. After he losesall of his money and has no prospect of future employment, Constantcomparison between his old state and his new showed a balance for theworse, which produced a constant state of gloom or, at least depression.(260) Unwilling to contend with the prospect of impending poverty, Carriemoves out to live with an actress friend of hers. .u5fc88288e62bee31a0f8a094dcb9c058 , .u5fc88288e62bee31a0f8a094dcb9c058 .postImageUrl , .u5fc88288e62bee31a0f8a094dcb9c058 .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u5fc88288e62bee31a0f8a094dcb9c058 , .u5fc88288e62bee31a0f8a094dcb9c058:hover , .u5fc88288e62bee31a0f8a094dcb9c058:visited , .u5fc88288e62bee31a0f8a094dcb9c058:active { border:0!important; } .u5fc88288e62bee31a0f8a094dcb9c058 .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u5fc88288e62bee31a0f8a094dcb9c058 { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .u5fc88288e62bee31a0f8a094dcb9c058:active , .u5fc88288e62bee31a0f8a094dcb9c058:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .u5fc88288e62bee31a0f8a094dcb9c058 .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .u5fc88288e62bee31a0f8a094dcb9c058 .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u5fc88288e62bee31a0f8a094dcb9c058 .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u5fc88288e62bee31a0f8a094dcb9c058 .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u5fc88288e62bee31a0f8a094dcb9c058:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .u5fc88288e62bee31a0f8a094dcb9c058 .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .u5fc88288e62bee31a0f8a094dcb9c058 .u5fc88288e62bee31a0f8a094dcb9c058-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u5fc88288e62bee31a0f8a094dcb9c058:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: It's Time for Voluntary Euthanasia and Assisted Su EssayCharles Drouet is Carries first experience with a man in her life. She does not particularly have any affection for him, but she feels thatshe owes him something for assisting her in her time of need. Hefacilitates her by giving her money and a place to live when she is unableto locate a job, although he is only this generous in order to make herfeel dependent on him. She greatly appreciates his efforts, feeling asthough a great arm had slipped out before her to draw off trouble. (50)Drouet functions as a static character, upon which one can measure theprogress of Carrie and Hurstwood throughout the novel. He does notrepresent as high of a class in society as does Hurstwood, but he stilllives comfortably, with money to spare. His clothes were particularly newand rich in appearance. (78) Drouet becomes disturbed when he learns ofCarries relationship with Hurstwood but is actually more disturbed by thefact that she prefers another man over him than the fact that he loves her. Julia Hurstwood epitomizes a woman living the life of luxury. Shestays out of her husbands business matters, and he compensates byproviding her with everything materialistic that she could ever need orwant. Julia is very concerned with appearances and desires to have onlythe best of everything, both for her and for her children. After shediscovers Hurstwoods relationship with Carrie, she demands money to go ona trip with her children and does not wish to see Hurstwood ever again. Jessica Hurstwood palpably follows in the footsteps of her patricianmother, Julia. Her main goal throughout the novel is to search for asuitable husband. She acts supercilious and believes that she is superiorto anyone possessing less money than her, a belief undoubtedly spurned byher mothers example. Jessica succeeds in locating a wealthy husband andwill likely continue to follow in her mothers footsteps throughout heradult life. Mrs. Vance and Mrs. Frank Hale represent another example of whatCarrie believes will make her happy. Mrs. Frank Hale lives in the samebuilding as Carrie and Drouet and opens Carries eyes to the class aboveher in society. Mrs. Vance, who lives in the flat next door to Carrie andHurstwood in New York, serves a similar purpose. Both flats were good tolook upon, though that of the Vances tended somewhat more to theluxurious. (243) These women set standards for Carrie that outline herdesires for the future. Bob Ames, a cousin of Mrs. Vance, who the latter introduces to Carrie,impresses the young girl very much. She enjoys his company, finding valuein what he has to say. In comparing him to both Hurstwood and Drouet, shenotices, He seemed wiser than Hurstwood, saner and brighter than Drouet.(257) Carrie believes that Ames may have even discovered the elusivehappiness that she, herself, is unable to locate. Lola Osborne gives Carrie the courage to move out of Hurstwoods flat,and life. The two women live together as roommates until Carrie begins tomake more money, at which point they both move into a hotel. Lola is alsoan actress and encourages Carrie to reach her potential in the theater. Lola also seems to possess the happiness that Carrie searches for. Shetells Carrie, Therere lots would give their ears to be in your shoes.(363) Yet, Lola does not seem unhappy. Major ConflictsMany of the conflicts in Sister Carrie are motivated by the desirefor money, status, or happiness. One such example is Carries conflictbetween herself and society, pertaining to her search for happiness. Itseems that society repeatedly shows Carrie something out there thatrepresents more affluence than she has access to, which in her mindsignifies more happiness. This conflict is never resolved, for Carrienever reaches that state of happiness, which she searches for throughoutthe novel. Near the conclusion, Carrie realizes that money does not assurehappiness. She had learnedin her own present state, was nothappiness.(399)Hurstwood engages in a conflict of the type man versus man with hiswife, Julia, motivated by the desire for money once she decides to divorcehim. She believes that she should be able to obtain his money, especiallysince he was unfaithful to her. Hurstwood obviously disagrees with thistrain of thought and fights to keep his money. Julia files suit withM cGregor, James, and Hay, who send Hurstwood a note saying, We beg toinform youbefore filing suit against youfor divorce and alimony.(192) Unfortunately for Hurstwood, Julia ends up with all of his money. Drouet and Hurstwood join in a conflict motivated by the desire towin Carrie and her affection. It is not particularly clear whethereither Drouet or Hurstwood actually love Carrie. Drouet lives with Carriefor an extended period of time and never wishes to marry her, yet whenHurstwood appears in the picture, Drouet suddenly must have his preciousCarrie around. his attitude had been that of the jealous lover. Nowhis feelings were a mixture of anger at deception, sorrow at losing Carrie,misery at being defeated. (181) Hurstwood does not want to change hisstatus in society or mar his reputation, but still wishes to have Carrieall to himself. It seems as if Hurstwood wins her affection, but this isonly temporary. Although they marry, it is not legal. In the end, theconflict is resolved when Carrie goes off alone and does remain with eitherman. .u23e81829ac23515d3a1abfcef54cc74d , .u23e81829ac23515d3a1abfcef54cc74d .postImageUrl , .u23e81829ac23515d3a1abfcef54cc74d .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u23e81829ac23515d3a1abfcef54cc74d , .u23e81829ac23515d3a1abfcef54cc74d:hover , .u23e81829ac23515d3a1abfcef54cc74d:visited , .u23e81829ac23515d3a1abfcef54cc74d:active { border:0!important; } .u23e81829ac23515d3a1abfcef54cc74d .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u23e81829ac23515d3a1abfcef54cc74d { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .u23e81829ac23515d3a1abfcef54cc74d:active , .u23e81829ac23515d3a1abfcef54cc74d:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .u23e81829ac23515d3a1abfcef54cc74d .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .u23e81829ac23515d3a1abfcef54cc74d .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u23e81829ac23515d3a1abfcef54cc74d .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u23e81829ac23515d3a1abfcef54cc74d .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u23e81829ac23515d3a1abfcef54cc74d:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .u23e81829ac23515d3a1abfcef54cc74d .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .u23e81829ac23515d3a1abfcef54cc74d .u23e81829ac23515d3a1abfcef54cc74d-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u23e81829ac23515d3a1abfcef54cc74d:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Polymorphism in C EssayAn alternate example of a conflict between man and society is thatbetween Hurstwood and society. Hurstwood begins as an opulent man inChicago. When he and Carrie travel to New York, he discovers that,Whatever a man like Hurstwood could be in Chicago, it is very evident thathe would be but an inconspicuous drop in an ocean like New York. (232)Without a job, Hurstwood succumbs to society and emerges as the loser inthis conflict. Society pushes him down farther and farther until he isunable to reach back up again. Symbols and MotifsThe rocking chair represents a significant symbol in Sister Carrie. From her sisters flat in Chicago, to her suite in a fancy hotel Carriefinds a rocking chair in almost every room. In Minnies flat, Carrie,drew the one small rocking-chair up to the open window, and sat lookingout upon the night and streets in silent wonder. (11) Also, in Carriesbeautiful hotel suite in the Waldorf, In her rocking-chair she sat, whennot otherwise engagedsinging and dreaming. (398) The ubiquitous rockingchairs illustrate Carries ride to Dream Land, or high society. Additional symbols in the novel exist in the form of the theaters,hotels, restaurants, and other buildings. As Carrie strolls down Broadway,she notices these buildings and determines what she believes will bring herhappiness. Upon visiting a restaurant with Mr. Vance, Mrs. Vance, and Mr. Ames, Carrie muses, Ah, how fortunate was Mrs. Vance; young, beautiful,and well offat least, sufficiently so to come here in a coach. What awonderful thing it was to be rich. (253) While walking down Broadway withMrs. Vance, Carrie longs, to feel the delight of parading here as anequal. Ah, then she would be happy! (247) Therefore, the presence ofthese symbols illustrates the theme of searching for happiness and theforeboding allusion that complete happiness may be just a dream. ThemesIn Sister Carrie, Dreiser attempts to express to the reader how themisguided search for happiness through the achievement of the Americandream of success can do more harm than good. Carrie begins as part of thelower-middle class of society and makes her way to the top. Throughout thenovel, In the view of a certain stratum of society, Carrie was comfortablyestablished-in the eyes of the starveling, beaten by every wind and gustysheet of rain she was safe in a halcyon harbor. (74) Her advances are inpart due to arduous work and in part due to her good luck. Carrie is meantto represent the, middle American class(2), Drouet, a class higher,and Hurstwood, a class higher than that. Carrie was not by any means agloomy soul; (76) however, she never feels completely happy. For theduration of the novel, Carrie searches vainly for true happiness. Thistheme remains relevant today because many people still possess the Americandream of success and happiness based on wealth and social status. Dreiserwants the reader to contemplate whether this true happiness exists at all. Ironically, as an actress in the play, Under the Gaslight, byAugustin Daly, Carrie speaks this line, It is a sad thing to want forhappiness, but it is a terrible thing to see another groping about blindlyfor it, when it is almost within the grasp. (148) If Carrie would realizethat contentment in life is not simply based on materialistic possessionsand income, she could possibly become happy. Unfortunately, she nevercomes to realize this. The reader is left with the impression that thehappiness that Carrie searches for does not exist and perhaps this is true. Perhaps the American dream of happiness is just that-a dream, an illusion. In your rocking-chair, by your window dreaming, shall you long, alone. In your rocking-chair, by your window, shall you dream such happiness asyou shall never feel. (400) The Achievement of True HappinessAP EnglishSummer HomeworkAugust 31, 2000

Local Emergency Planning Committees (LEPC)

Local Emergency Planning Committees (LEPC) Introduction The Local Emergency Planning Committees (LEPCs) have the mandate of preparing and maintaining detailed emergency plans as stated in the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA). Since the year 1987, the state emergency response commission (SERC), as stated in the Connecticut General Statutes’ Section 22a-601 (b) (DEMHS 1), created local planning districts.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Local Emergency Planning Committees (LEPC) specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Upon recognizing that towns and cities are vulnerable to numerous threats and disasters such as ice storms, aircraft accidents, hurricanes, forest fires, earthquakes, and tornadoes, the Local Emergency Planning Committee prepares for these emergencies besides making appropriate plans to deal with them in the event of their occurrence (SERC 1). The paper looks at the components of LEPT, meetings, and the existing plans in the town of New London. It also evaluates the possible change suggestions and improvements for the plan. Components of the LEPC The management of the LEPT consists of the Chief Executive Officer who is charged with the management of significant emergencies, resource mobilization, and ordering of any evacuations from the disaster. The assistant to the chief executive officer is the â€Å"Emergency Management Director who has the task of managing and organizing the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC)† (SERC 1). He/she also serves in establishing communication within EOC, departmental coordination, and coordinating emergency plans. The third member of the committee is the fire leader (superior fire leader-in-charge). He or she is responsible for the determination of any areas vulnerable to catastrophes that need evacuation. He/she may also order any evacuations as deemed necessary (DEMHS 1). The emergency management communication officer is responsible for coordinating radio commu nications in the EOC in response to disasters. Other members represent the various departments involved with emergency response including the fire department, police department, EOO manager, public works department, emergency management director, public information officer, and health and medical coordinator. The response further includes communications coordinator, warning coordinators, evacuation coordinator, shelter/mass care coordinator, resource manager, town attorney, superintendent of schools, treasurer, military department, volunteer organizations, private utility companies, animal care, and control coordinator among other tasked organizations (SERC 5).Advertising Looking for essay on public administration? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Meetings An annual review of the local emergency planning committee’s emergency plan is followed according to the regional guidelines. This keeps emergency response p lans for the town up-to-date. The LEPC meets once after every two months with the main meeting taking place annually when the strategies and plans are reviewed. Members are also elected with reports on preparedness and financing alongside normal business being made (DEMHS 1). The last update in the emergency response plan was made a year ago in the annual meeting with the members unanimously agreeing on the changes. Personal opinions The disaster preparedness team is a necessary department in any modernized society in the light of the experience in disasters and emergencies. The United States and the state of Connecticut in particular are susceptible to accidents and natural disasters especially forest fires. In the past episodes, there have been losses of life that could have been prevented in the presence of adequate disaster preparedness. The opportunity is now present with the establishment of LEPC especially that of New London. The organization should however be objective in it s plans and strategies with proper definition of the various roles to be played. Limitations and Suggestions The elaborate plans made by the LEPC are adequate. They will prove effective should a disaster occur. However, there is a little knowledge on the existence of the body among the citizens with most of them being oblivious of the safety measures in the case of a disaster. This seems evident in the previous response in disasters in the recent past. There is also no clear demarcation of the roles of the various members especially on who is responsible for major decisions on the evacuations between the fire department and the Chief Executive Officer. Despite the above shortfalls, the body has effectively laid down strategies, which are simplistic and easy to follow. Minimum possible resources are planned for with a true reflection of the real situation in disasters. The communication department is effective in communicating changes to the departments involved with various drills b eing evident especially in the police department.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Local Emergency Planning Committees (LEPC) specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Given the opportunity to lead the committee, my role would be championing for awareness, disaster preparedness, and response to disasters among the residents of the town. This would involve more adverts, posters, booklets, and setting up of more drills in public places and buildings. A law on safety requirements for various public areas is also required. The committee is a good body/instrument that can champion this matter. Lead agency for Hazardous Materials The efficient handling of hazardous materials within the town falls under the LEPC (SERC 3). The fire section is charged with the responsibility of separating, steadying, and controlling occurrences of risky stuffs until their proper elimination and dumping. Actions involved include evacuation and other me asures relevant in protecting the town’s inhabitants from the hazards (SERC 1). In the event of a hazardous material accident, the person serving as the senior-fire-officeholder-in-charge is responsible for giving directions in the scene of the accident. The other person serving the same role is the municipal fire chief as stated in Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-know Act (EPCRA) (DEMHS 4). The Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) â€Å"under the State Emergency Response Commission (SERC), as specified under Title 22a, Chapter 446e, has the responsibility of planning for any material incidents in the community† (SERC 1). It therefore stands out as a crucial body that defines the effectiveness of any actions taken in this kind of an emergency. Fire Department role The fire department has a central role in LEPC. Its preparedness is crucial in any disaster management. In the occurrence of a catastrophe, the section ships vehicles, workforce, and instrument ation to the place of the disaster. When an EOC is activated during an emergency, the department also sends a representative to aid in planning and management.Advertising Looking for essay on public administration? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More It also briefs the EOC on the situation on the ground (SERC 12). The fire department â€Å"manages the rescue operations in the scene, determines the need for evacuations, and directs fire operations and the resources available† (SERC 13). The department is also responsible for protecting those at risk from the disaster by evacuating them to safer grounds. It also briefs all the other responsible organizations on the dangers involved especially during the emergency operations. Conclusion The Local Emergency Planning Committee is charged with the responsibility of planning adequately before disasters and emergencies. The membership and roles are defined in each locality with the various members involved having defined functions. The disaster preparedness in the town is adequate with improvements needed in the public sensitization methods. DEMHS. Model Local Emergency Operations Plan, 2012. Web. https://portal.ct.gov/DEMHS/Emergency-Management/Resources-For-Officials/Planning- For-All-Hazards/LEOP/Local-Emergency-Operations-Plan-Resources SERC. Local Emergency Planning Committees, 2012. Web. https://www.ct.gov/serc/cwp/view.asp?a=2591Q=315312

Situation analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 1

Situation analysis - Essay Example Direct competitors include Seattle’s Best, Figaro and others while other fast food chains also poses as indirect competitors such as Dunkin Donuts, McDonalds and other fast food chains offering coffee as part of their menu. Competitors can either be direct or indirect competitors. Direct competitors are those companies who could offer the same product and services while indirect competitors are companies who could offer an alternative product or services (Mà ¶ller, 2006). Needless to say, Starbucks operate in a very highly competitive environment. Competition in the industry was aggravated by the recent financial crisis which changed the buying behaviour of Starbucks customers whose purchasing habits changed dramatically along with their choices of coffee products. Starbucks used to market its product as premium coffee commanding premium prices in the market. This strategy however changed with the changing behaviour of consumers in the aftermath of recent financial crisis. The â€Å"premium coffee† preference suddenly became less a priority and convenience and affordability moved to the forefront. The â€Å"prestige orientation† of Starbucks is no longer applicable in the changing behaviour of its customers. This trend continues and is now the reality of the market. Demand however is not seen to diminish. Customers however are now price sensitive to the coffees they purchase. Economic environment determines the financial capacity of its market and business has to adjust correspondingly for it to survive. In the case of Starbucks, economic environment made Starbucks reconsider its position in the market when the financial crisis hit in 2008-2010 that companies were compelled to adapt to the new market realities to stay afloat as a business (Miron, 2013). The main strength of Starbucks is its brand that commands confidence in