The Red Scare Essay - 1005 Words

In the long years between 1947 and around 1957, fear of communism froze the very voices of America into unison. A supposedly enlightened country, the United States of America succumbed to the mass hysteria of the Red Scare with shockingly little resistance. Communist â€Å"Reds† and Communist sympathizing â€Å"Pinks† were seen everywhere and were often persecuted by the House Committee on Un-American Activities (also known by the inaccurate acronym HUAC). Many of these individuals’ only crime was that of sensibility; they saw the truth behind the terrifying chaos. One of the best records of this dark chapter in America’s history is its literature, which expressed opinion when it could be dangerous to do so. The American public’s paranoid fear of†¦show more content†¦So states Prometheus after his discovery of singular pronouns in a world where only the plural forms are permitted, under the threat of execution. The parallel between Rand’s hive-minded society and the fear of communism in America is abundantly clear. Most American’s saw communism as an all-consuming force, slowly but surely winding its way into their politics and ultimately, their homes (Zeinert 67). There was a fear that America would become a Communist society like the one in Anthem, an unhappy, oppressed people deluded into preserving their way of life for fear of change and the responsibility of freedom. The idea that Communist’s are everywhere is a pervading theme throughout the cold war and red scare and a continuing trend in the literature of the time. Not all works were so openly anti-communist however, just as not all individuals believed that communism was the threat it was made out to be. When Senator Joe McCarthy came into power in the 1950’s he brought fear into the hearts of American citizens, fear of Communists, and fear that they would be accused of associating with Communists. â₠¬Å"McCarthy attacked individuals and organizations without proof. If someone rose to defend these victims, he lashed out at the defenders, accusing them of being Communists, pinks, or punks†¦His methods were given a name: McCarthyism† (Zeinert 69).Show MoreRelatedThe Red Scare Essay examples1067 Words   |  5 PagesFirst and Second Red Scare of the United States paved the way for a long standing fear of communism and proved to be one of America’s largest periods of mass hysteria. Throughout the years authors and analysts have studied and formed expository albeit argumentative books and articles in an attempt to further understand this period of time; the mindset held during this period however is shown to be completely different compared to now. Major and still important was the First Red Scare stemming fromRead MoreThe Red Scare and McCarthyism Essays1295 Words   |  6 PagesThe Red Scare and McCarthyism had begun Paranoia, disloyalty, people losing jobs. The Red Scare and McCarthyism both made everything else worse. Communism is a political theory derived from Karl Marx, advocating class war and leading to a society in which all property is publicly owned and each person works and is paid according to their abilities and needs. At the end of the month when they get their paychecks they both end up with the same amount of money it is not fair, right? but that is moreRead MoreEssay on Joseph McCarthy and the Red Scare1134 Words   |  5 Pages1950s-everyone was afraid of the â€Å"reds†, or communists. The cold war had a large affect on this, because it is when America became afraid of communists or Russians. McCarthyism affected everyone in America Most citizens were afraid of the reds, some were former or curre nt reds, some were accused and persecuted for being an assumed red. It’s clear that McCarthyism played a big role in the development of America. McCarthyism became a household term, not only associated with the red scare. It is now a term usedRead MoreThe Second Red Scare During The Cold War With The Soviet Union1094 Words   |  5 PagesThe Second Red Scare started in the opening phases of the Cold War with the Soviet Union. The Second Red Scare refers to the anti-communist passion that affected American politics, culture and society in the 1940s and 1950s. Interpretations of the Second Red Scare have ranged between two poles: one emphasizing the threat posed to national security by the Communist Party, and the other emphasizing the threat to democracy posed by political repression. Americans historically have been fearful of â€Å"enemiesRead MoreThe Red Scare of McCarthyism 576 Words   |  2 PagesRed Scare: McCarthyism â€Å"No one man can terrorize a whole nation unless we are all his accomplices.† -Edward R. Murrow (Goodreads.com) The Red Scare, also known as, McCarthyism started in the early 1950’s. It got the name McCarthyism from Senator Joseph Raymond McCarthy. McCarthy started The Red Scare. It was very similar to a witch hunt but, it wasn’t witches they were hunting for. They were searching for communist. The Red Scare was a horrible and cruel period during the early 1900’s. DuringRead MoreHUAC and the Red Scare1098 Words   |  5 Pageswas blacklisted, he moved to Mexico to write multiple books about Marxists views and interpretations about the motion picture industry. Later in life, he would return to America and teach at multiple universities across the country. The Second Red Scare of the late 1940s and early 1950s was a very embarrassing time in our nation’s history. The subpoenaed witnesses were right when they said that the HUAC was infringing on their basic civil rights. But it was also wrong for the witnesses to have beenRead MoreThe System Of The Red Scare978 Words   |  4 Pagesand already developed nation goes through its ups and downs within its political, social, and economic atmosphere. An infamous example could be during Hitler’s reign in Germany, another example could be during the early 1900s into the time of the Red Scare where only the à ©lite few lived well off while the rest of the population did not compare as well. During this time in the United States, an idea known as â€Å"the system† came about. â€Å"The system† is infamously known to affect many lives such as AnneRead MoreMccarthyism And The Red Scare1416 Words   |  6 Pagessimply carrying on with their lives, at a time where the war was expanding, not only across Asia, but across American classrooms and schools. In 1970, the Vietnam War (although never officially a war) was in its last five years. McCarthyism and the Red Scare, which had reached its peak in the 1950s, had left its mark on the American public and government, with a fear of communism and its potential proliferation across the world. With this in mind, the growing Vietnamese interest in a communist governmentRead MoreMccarthyism And The Salem Witch Trials1360 Words   |  6 Pagesextreme fear in order to send people they don’t like to jail or to death. Though wrong, it was used many times throughout history. I intend to explain how McCarthyism is comparable to what happened in the Salem Witch Trials, how it was used in The Red Scare, and the effects of it on the people accused. McCarthyism is very similar to what happened during the Salem Witch Trials. The Witch Trials were during a time in early American history when people were very superstitious and religious. During theRead MoreThe Murder And Robbery Of A Shoe Factory1112 Words   |  5 PagesIn 1920, during the height of the Red Scare, a shoemaker, Nicola Sacco (1891-1927), and a fish peddler, Bartolomeo Vanzetti (1888-1927), were accused of robbing and murdering the paymaster and guard of a shoe company in South Braintree, Massachusetts. Known as anarchists and draft evaders, the accused men faced a hostile judge and a public convinced of their guilt. Despite Sacco s corroborated testimony that he was at the Italian consulate in Boston at the time of the murder, the two were found

Becoming A Family Health Nurse - 869 Words

My journey in becoming a Family Health Nurse (FHN) has been a smooth transition from providing patient centered care. Throughout my clinical practicum, families are typically present at the bedside, and should be cared for in a similar way as a part of patient care such as addressing concerns, problem solving, and collaborating with families in order to provide exceptional care. Furthermore, as I am part of a nursing resource team at a teaching hospital, many units I am assigned to such as oncology, there is an expectation to provide family centered care as an entry to practice nurse. This paper will be describing the knowledge I have gained throughout the family health course through professional development activities, and a detailed description of a meaningful family health nursing comic manifesto that I have created. During week 2, my group and I created an art installation for a classroom professional development activity. This art installation comprised of bringing items that had personal significance and meaning regarding family, such as pictures. I believe activity this has enabled me to understand the values and beliefs that are important in relation to the role of a family health nurse as I was able to understand different perspectives of my colleagues that can be transferred over into a clinical setting by viewing things from different lenses with patients and their families (Doane Varcoe, 2005). Furthermore, the concept that were reflected in this PD activityShow MoreRelatedNurse Practitioner Research Paper1077 Words   |  5 PagesThe Nurse Practitioner Nurse practitioners are advanced practice registered nurses who have  received special courses and training. They usually work closely with doctors and can perform many high-level primary care tasks. They often specialize in specific types of practice such as pediatrics, psychiatry, or obstetrics.  Some establish private practices; however, most work in doctors offices, hospitals, or neighborhood health centers. Their duties often include taking detailed medical historiesRead MoreThe Process Of Becoming A Nurse1588 Words   |  7 PagesProcess of Becoming A Nurse As a young child everyone was told from their parents to either go into the business or medical field because they are great professional field that also pays well; which, the outcome of the job will better many peoples future if this path is taken. The first step on becoming a nurse is first is figuring out what type of nursing branch or field will suit professional needs such as adult (elderly), children (pediatric), learning disability or mental health. Also,Read MoreA Career as a Pediatric Nurse Essay1265 Words   |  6 Pagesor a pediatrician they are still tended to by a pediatric nurse. A pediatric nurse has to have many qualities. They also have to take many different classes. A pediatric nurse’s pay can vary from location to location depending on where they are working. Pediatric nurses must endure many different things to make it into this particular work field, and have many different qualities. Pediatric nurses do a lot of the same tasks as a regular nurse. They draw blood, check vital signs, can perform physicalRead MoreStatement of Purpose for an Advance Degree in Nursing at University of Alabama716 Words   |  3 Pagesmastered-prepared nurse. The Family Nurse Practitioner specialty is my primary area of interest. Becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner will give me the advanced training needed to provide primary care, preventive health services, and education to all ages. My second choice is the Adult-Gero Nurse specialy program. As an adult gero nurse practitioner I will deliver the same services and care as a family nurse practitioner with the exception to the pediatric population. I have been a registered nurse for twoRead MoreThe Human Becoming Theory Guides Nurses1487 Words   |  6 Pages The Human Becoming Theory guides nurses in their practice to focus more on the quality of life. Rosemarie Rizzo Parse was the famous nursing theorist who came up with the theory as it stems from her values and believes. Rosemarie Rizzo Parse was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, but grew up in Castle Shannon with her close and supportive family. Her mother was a homemaker and was a member of the local church. Her father worked as a lamplighter, until he became a manager of Castle Shannon. ParseRead MoreMy Personality Traits Of A Nurse1725 Words   |  7 PagesEver since I was a young child I have wanted to be a nurse. The older I have gotten, the feeling of wanting to be a nurse has only gotten stronger. When I began to work in a hospital and was constantly surrounded by nurses, I was often asked what type of nurse I would want to be. This was a question that I had nev er had a definite answer for, as I had always just known that I wanted to be a nurse. In completing this career research report I have been able to explore multiple careers that I mayRead MoreNursing as a Career Essay1104 Words   |  5 Pagesimportant to the quality of patient care than a nurse. I don’t think there has ever been a time when nurses weren’t needed to provide care and nurturing to others in need. Whether it’s a mother ready to deliver a baby or give comfort to an elderly gentleman, nurses have a special role they play in everyone’s life. Today, prospective nurses take on many challenges as they look forward to their career choice such as the education and need for nurses in the future, the employment options and healthcareRead MoreThes Human Becoming Theory1413 Words   |  6 PagesParse’s and Pender’s theories is to promote quality of care and life by allowing the patient to drive their care decisions. In this paper, the se theories will be explored and applied to clinical situations. Parse’s Human Becoming Theory Assumptions and Principles Parse’s Human becoming theory was founded upon the principles and concepts of Rogers’ theory, and is based on nine assumptions and three main principles. The assumptions include: 1. Humans are coexistent while co-constituting rhythmical patternsRead MoreThe Role Of Nurses As An Effective Leader1093 Words   |  5 PagesThe role of nurses has historically been one of partnerships. Nurses serve as the adhesive of healthcare by interacting and partnering with professionals in the care process. Whether a family member, laboratory technician, physician or even a nutrition aide delivering a tray the nurse has always been there to interact at all levels of care. Baccalaureates prepared nurses provide patient  ¬centered care by respecting values, and serving patient needs as effective advocates. Patient advocacy is paramountRead MoreMy Grandmother s Life Changing Experience951 Words   |  4 Pagesdoctors informed my family, my grand-aunt only had a couple of months to live. The news was devastating to my family as we watched a vivacious, independent, and outspoken woman, who enjoyed shopping, reading mystery novels and spending time with family become very weak and confined to her bed. Instead of placing my grand-aunt in a hospice facility, my family and I, with the assistance of a hospice nurse cared for my grand-aunt in her home until her passing. Working with the nurse who cared for my ailing

Gender idenity Essay Example For Students

Gender idenity Essay Peyronies disease What is Peyronies disease? Peyronies disease is a disorder affecting the penis that can cause: a lump within the shaft of the penis pain in the shaft of the penis abnormal angulation of the erect penis (bent penis). Not all of these features are necessarily present, but, typically, a man would first notice a tender lump in the penis, which might later be followed by bending of the penis when erect, sometimes at very odd angles. The flaccid penis is not usually deformed. It is important to remember that a degree of upward (towards the head) angulation of the erect penis is quite normal and not a feature of Peyronies disease. Good advice Noticing a lump in the penis can be a frightening experience. Men are often concerned that they have developed a cancer. Cancer within the penile shaft is very rare indeed, while Peyronies disease is by far the most common cause of such lumps. If you find a lump, it is important to seek prompt medical advice, but you should not be too fearful that a serious cause will be found What causes Peyronies disease? The penis consists of basically three cylinders, covered by several sheaths of tissue and, finally, by skin. A pair of corpora cavernosa form the erectile tissue that becomes engorged with blood during erection, acting like the inner tube of a tyre. They are surrounded by the tunica albuginea, a tough, inelastic, fibrous sheath, which might be compared with the tyre itself. When the penis becomes erect, the inner tubes (corpora cavernosa) inflate, filling the space within the tyre (tunica albugenia), making it more rigid. In Peyronies disease, tough, fibrous plaques spontaneously appear within the tunica albugenia, and are felt as tender lumps. When the penis becomes erect, it inflates unevenly and tends to bend around the plaque, causing the characteristic deformed appearance of Peyronies disease. Experts are not certain why some men get Peyronies disease and others do not. Several factors might be involved, including: genetics: occasionally the disease has a tendency to run in certain families (inherited or genetic predisposition), but this is not common. injury: Peyronies disease is more common after injury to the penis, such as penile fracture or forceful bending of the erect penis. It also occurs more frequently in men that give injections into the penis for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (impotence). circulatory disorders: more men with Peyronies disease seem to be affected by high blood pressure and hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis), so these conditions might possibly be involved in its development. diabetes: this is more common in men with Peyronies disease, so might also be involved in its development. What are the symptoms? Peyronies disease occurs at any time from adolescence onwards, but most commonly in men aged 40 to 60 years. It affects around 1 in a 100 (0.4 to 1.0 per cent) of the middle-aged male population. The disease causes very variable degrees of deformity and inconvenience. Some men are barely troubled by it, while others find sexual intercourse physically impossible. Many men will not require treatment, but all should seek prompt medical advice. The symptoms are: a lump within the shaft of the penis: this can slowly develop over several months and frequently takes 12-18 months to reach its full extent. pain in the shaft of the penis: two-thirds of men with Peyronies disease will experience pain in the penis. In most cases, it will gradually settle down and disappear without treatment in a few months. abnormal angulation of the erect penis (bent penis): during the 12 to 18 months that the plaque or lump is developing, the deformity of the erect penis can change 30 to 40 per cent get worse, 10 to 20 per cent get better and 50 per cent remain the same. Some men will develop varying degrees of erectile dysfunction (impotence) as a consequence of Peyronies disease. This can vary from a complete inability to attain and/or maintain an erection adequate for satisfactory sexual experience to a slight reduction in penile rigidity. Some men report a tendency for the penis to buckle around the lump during sex. The frequency of this problem has been reported as between 4 and 80 per .

The Manipulation Of Othello Essays - Othello, English-language Films

The Manipulation Of Othello The Manipulation of Othello William Shakespeare's Othello presents all of the elements of a great tragedy, according to Aristotle's definition: A tragedy is the imitation in dramatic form of an action that is serious and complete, with incidents arousing pity and fear wherewith it effects a catharsis of such emotions (Poetics 14) He also adds, The language used is pleasurable and throughout, appropriate to the situation in which it is used. The central features of the Aristotelian archetype are manifested in General Othello's character. Although Othello is great, he is not perfect. He has a tragic flaw, hubris (excessive pride and passion), and hamartia (some error), which lead to his downfall. However, Othello's misfortune is not wholly deserved. His punishment exceeds the crime, keeping him admirable in the theatergoer's eyes. Before Othello's tragic flaw results in his unfortunate death, he has increased awareness and gained self-knowledge or, as Aristotle describes it has experienced a discovery. (Poetics 1 5) All of this produces a catharsis or emotional release at the end of the play. A tragedy, when well performed, does not leave an audience in a state of depression but creates a shared, common experience. What causes Othello's downfall? Some critics claim that Othello's tragic flaw is his jealousy while others insist that jealousy is not part of his character, that the emotion takes over only when Iago pushes him to the brink of insanity. Evidence in the play supports the notion of insanity. Othello doesn't show himself to be jealous early in the play. It is not until Othello is manipulated by Iago's skillful lies that he is forced to confront his jealousy and mistrust. His love and trust of Iago serve to prove his gullibility, Jealousy and self-doubt poison his sensibilities and innocence, and the realization of his blind trust leads to his sorrowful end. As with most of Shakespeare's tragic heroes, Othello possesses all the virtues prescribed for the character type. He is of noble birth; he is self-controlled; he is religious; he has the respect of his men; and he demonstrates excellent leadership. His magnetism is what draws Venetian senators and soldiers alike and what captivates Desdemona. All of this supports the idea that he is not (at the play's opening) a jealous, enraged, or mad man. He has convincing self-esteem which he later loses to the deception of Iago's evil ploy. It can be noted that Othello's character flaw is his blind trust and naivet?. These character traits contribute to his misled downfall. It would be neglectful, if not irresponsible, to overlook Iago's role in the play. His hate for Othello and Cassio drives his evil motive through a string of lies affecting the entire cast. From the first act, the antagonist is troubled: I know my price, I am worth no worse a place. But he (as loving his own pride and purposes) Evades them with a bumbast circumstance Horribly stuff'd epithites of war, [And in conclusion,] Nonsuits my mediators; for, Certes, says he, I have already chose my officer. And what was he? Forsooth, a great arithmetician, One Michael Cassio, a Florentine (A fellow almost damn'd in a fair wife), That never set a squadron in the field, Nor the division of a battle knows (Othello. I.i.11-23) Iago never reveals his dissatisfaction with the military arrangement to Othello. Instead, he makes use of Othello's innocence and trust to satisfy his wicked end. He constantly boasts of his love for Othello and patronizes him regularly throughout the play. At Iago's first attempt to instill jealousy in the trusting Othello, he is successful. Othello's concern at Iago's implications entices him to learn more. Iago plays a verbal game with Othello to arouse suspicion. This piques Othello's interest and starts his mind to wonder. Iago is successful at the point he proclaims, O, beware, my lord, of jealousy! It is the green-ey'd monster which doth mock The meat it feeds on. That cuckold lives in bliss Who, certain of his fate, loves not his wronger; But O, what damned minutes tells he o'er Who dotes, yet doubts; suspects, yet [strongly] loves! (Othello. III.iii.163-168) One of the major qualities that comes to mind when assessing Othello is his trustfulness. He claims that Iago is a man of honesty and trust; To his conveyance I assign my wife (I.iii.286). Othello has no reason to

McDonalds Benefits Plan

McDonalds Benefits Plan Executive Summary The key to excellent business performance lies in the well being of an organization’s human resource component. McDonald’s, one of the leading retail fast food chains in the world promotes its employees welfare by providing numerous benefit packages that aim at protecting the employee’s health, social welfare, and financial security.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on McDonald’s Benefits Plan specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The corporation which was founded by Ray Kroc in the mid 20th century has managed to continuously deliver exceptional growth over the years despite the challenges facing the fast food industry in the modern economy. This outstanding performance can be attributed to the company’s improved customer service and extensive marketing which saw a 3.8% sales increment in 2009. To further improve its performance in the coming years, McDonald’s shou ld focus more on employee’s welfare by providing a benefit package that motivates the existing pool of experienced labor and discourages high rates of employee turn over. Currently, McDonald’s offers a wide range of benefits to its permanent employees. The corporation’s benefit program constitutes health and protection benefits which include medical plan, vision supplement, dental plan, spending accounts, short and long term disability, life and accidental death insurance, and travel accident insurance. In addition, the company provides a wide range of enhancement benefits which include vacations and holidays, sabbatical program, short Fridays and leave of absence, adoption assistance, education assistance, free internet discount program, and international fitness club network among others. Further, McDonald’s provides retirement benefits to its employees through profit sharing and savings, Mc$ave, McDirect shares, credit union, and financial planning ser vices. However, McDonald’s offers a limited range of employee benefits to its part time employees working directly in the restaurants despite the risky nature of their work.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Further, the company’s plan to drop its employees’ health plan has faced a lot of criticisms in the media which may damage the image of the company among employees and consumers. In response to this, McDonald should review its benefit plan scheme to incorporate an extensive benefit package for restaurant crew. It should also utilize its financial resources efficiently in order to obtain adequate revenue to maintain its employees’ health care plan and meet the required regulations. In anticipation of revenue increment in the coming year, McDonald’s should invest more on its human resource by increasing the range of benefit cover age. However, if McDonald’s anticipates reduction in sales in the coming year, the company should focus more on maintaining health care and retirement benefits and restrict employee eligibility for recreational benefits. Mc Donald’s Background Information In the late 40s, two brothers, Dick and McDonald were seeking to improve performance in their little restaurant located in California. In response to this, the two brothers introduced self service, redid their menu, increased their production rates, and reduced their prices making them more competitive. As a result, the company enjoyed remarkable success in the following years which prompted establishment of franchises to further increase its market. McDonald’s restaurant success story caught the interest of Ray Kroc, a 52 year old sales man who became their exclusive franchising agent for the entire United States. In 1961, Kroc eventually acquired McDonald’s and this not only freed him from McDonaldâ₠¬â„¢s initial restrictive agreement but also enhanced his ability to pursue growth in McDonald’s and the fast food industry at large. McDonald’s continuous growth saw the take off of fast food industry in United States and later took the world by storm. Ray Kroc emphasized on maintenance of cleanliness, quality standards, improved service, and value in all McDonald’s franchises which led to improvement in customer service in the rapidly growing fast food restaurant industry.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on McDonald’s Benefits Plan specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More In 1965, McDonald’s issued its shares to the public which consequently transformed in into a public corporation and a year later, it was listed in the New York’s stock exchange. The subsequent years were followed by increase in the number of restaurants and sales such that by 1970, the corporation had approximately 1600 restaurants located across all the states US and reported sales of $587 (McDonald’s 2011). After achieving wide spread growth across United States, McDonald’s further sought to expand into international markets to further increase its market base. The first McDonald’s restaurant to be established outside US was in Canada after which the company ventured into the European, Australian market, and Asian Market. Currently, McDonald’s is among the leading food service retailers in the fast food industry and has established more than thirty two thousand restaurants, which are spread across 117 countries (McDonald’s 2011). With more than 75% of its restaurants being franchised, the company has provided opportunities for other businessmen to contribute to the success of the company and has provided employment to over 1.7 million people world wide (McDonald’s 2011). McDonald’s continues to improve its performance by continuously improvin g customer service and promoting entrepreneurial spirit among the employees, suppliers, and operators (McDonald’s 2011). In addition to its unique customer service, McDonald’s impressive performance in the industry can be attributed to personal and professional integrity whereby the company seeks employee trust by being dependable, ethical and truthful (McDonald’s 2011).Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More In addition, the company promotes good governance among its leaders and shows commitment to the same through annual reviews and monitoring which creates room for adjustment and continuous improvement. According to McDonald’s (2011), good governance within the organization is the journey through which the company promotes integrity in its interaction with all the relevant stakeholders. McDonald’s Employee Benefit In the past, McDonald’s paid most of its employees the minimum wage. However, the current labor shortages have forced the price of wages to increase. Benefits such as health insurance and sick leaves were lacking in most franchises in US (Leidner 1993) and lack of tangible benefits was especially evident among restaurant crews most of whom are students and part time workers. This resulted in very high employee turn over rates such that in 1984, the employee turn over rate average 153% and the rates increased in 1985 to 205% (Leidner, 2003). Today, Mc Don ald’s strives to employ and maintain a competent pool of human resource capable of meeting and overcoming the challenges facing the fast food industry. In order to achieve this, the company ensures that it awards flexible schedules and competitive payment packages for its part time employees working as restaurant crew. The restaurant crew benefits comprise of 24 hour nurse line access, free or discounted meals, and flexible hours. In addition, these employees may be awarded other benefits eligible to permanent employees but these are subject to specific requirements and restrictions. McDonald’s benefit program attracts, retains, and engages competent personnel capable of promoting achievement of the company’s objectives. The company’s employees at corporate, divisional, and regional offices are awarded benefits which are classified under four categories; health and protection, pay and rewards, investing in the future, and balancing between work and life ( McDonald’s 2011). Health and Protection While many companies in the first food industry do not offer health coverage for their employees, McDonald’s provides medical plans for its workers at 10,500 US locations most of which are franchised (McDonald’s 2011). The medical programs provide different options depending on employees needs. These plans incorporate a prescription drug program, preventive care, annual physical exams, child care and immunization as well as unlimited life time benefit maximum (McDonald’s 2011). The cost of medical plan varies according to plan and number of people being covered. For mini-med plans, a single worker can pay up to $14 per week for an annual plan worth $ 2000 or $ 32 per week for coverage up to 10000 a year. As of March 2009, the basic McCrew plan cost the employee less than $56 dollars a month, employees plus 1 at slightly over $117 per month, and the employee plus family at under $180 per month (McDonald’s 2011 ). In the same time period, the mid 5 McCrew medical plan cost the employee $97 per month, employee plus 1 at $117 per month, while employee plus family cost under $320 per month (McDonald’s 2011). Employees enrolled in either of McDonald’s medical plans may choose a vision supplement plan which covers a wide range of visual services such as eye glasses and contact lens replacement program. In addition, the company provides a dental plan which enables its employees to access dental services from the dentists of their choice. McDonald’s provides flexible spending accounts for its employees which enable them to set aside pre tax income to pay for health care and day care expenses. Employees may set aside up to $5600 in health care spending account and up to $5000 in the day care spending account (McDonald’s 2011). This enables the employees to comfortably cater for costs uncovered or partially covered by the medical plan. The company also offers short and l ong term disability coverage to its staff at no cost. The short term disability plan provides benefits to employees who are incapable of working for ten consecutive days while the long term disability coverage covers 60% of employees base salary while he is disabled (McDonald’s 2011). Employee and dependent life insurance is twice the employee’s base salary and is provided to McDonald’s employees at no cost. However, the employees can choose to acquire additional life insurance to cater for spouse and other dependents at his/her own cost. The company also provides accidental and dismemberment insurance cover which benefits employees’ dependents upon accidental death of the employee and is equal to twice the employee’s base salary. Further, the travel and business travel accident cover provides travel accident coverage of twice an employee’s base salary at no cost to employees. Depending on employee’s position, the coverage amounts to either $100000 or $200000 and incorporates travel accident coverage (McDonald’s 2011). Retirement Benefit Plans McDonald’s acknowledges the need for its employees to invest in the future in these economically challenging times. Consequently, the company offers savings and money management programs which assist employees in planning for the future. The profit sharing and savings plan allows the employees to save up to 50% of their pay on tax deferred basis in 401(k) (McDonald’s 2011). The company contributes $3 for every $1 contributed by eligible employees of the first 1% of their contribution and a further $1 for each $1 contributed by employees on the next 4% of their contribution. In addition, eligible employees are also entitled to a discretionary profit sharing match of 0% to 4% which is based on their contribution (McDonald’s 2011). In addition, McDonald has established other investment packages such as Mc$ave which is a money market fund where empl oyees invest part of their income in the prime reserve fund, McDirect shares which allows employees to buy customer shares and reinvest dividends in the company, Credit Union where McDonald’s employees enjoy services through corporate America Family Credit Union, and financial planning services which facilitates employees access to professional financial planning services through Ameriprise Financial or Merrill Lynch (McDonald’s 2011) Balancing Employees Work and Life In order to achieve maximum output from the human resource component, McDonald’s seeks to assist its employees in striking a balance between work and life outside the work place by providing a wide range of benefit packages designed to help employees maintain this balance. The company offers paid vacations for corporate, region, division office and restaurant management employees (McDonald’s 2011). The vacation period depends on the duration in which an employee has worked for McDonaldâ€⠄¢s. Moreover, the company offers nine paid holidays to its full time eligible employees. McDonald’s seeks to reduce the amount of time spent in the office by its employees by providing anniversary splash, sabbatical program, short Fridays, and leave absence (McDonald’s 2011). In attempt to break the monotony associated with specialization and routine work, McDonald’s develops alternative work strategies where permanent employees have the option of flexible time or compressed work week while part time employees have the option of adopting the part time schedule or job sharing (McDonald’s 2011). McDonald seeks to promote the social welfare in its human resource by offering child adoption assistance of up to $ 2500 per child to its employees. The company further seeks to promote improved child care among its employees by providing them with opportunities for discounted tuition. For instance, McDonald’s has agreements with three national care provider s; child time learning center, Knowledge learning center, and La Petite Academy which offer 10% discount on tuition for McDonald’s employees (McDonald’s 2011). In addition, eligible employees willing to further their studies may receive financial assistance from the company. McDonald’s established the matching gift program which encourage employees to support NGOs, employee resource connection program which enables employees to manage their lives outside the office, international fitness club network where workers acquire fitness information and discounts on fitness equipment, auto and home insurance program which helps employees to purchase insurance through MetLife Auto and Home Insurance Program, and beyond work which is a free internet discount program for recreational products and services (McDonald’s 2011). Recommendations The fast food industry has gained world wide popularity due to its ability to provide quick service and inexpensive food to cons umers. In the US market where McDonald’s has its most number of restaurants, the fast food industry has continued to grow with its market value being estimated at $ 51 billion in 2007 (Albala Allen, 2007). This growth can be attributed to emergence of a culture which favors longer work days and dual-income families. Despite the remarkable growth in the industry, McDonald has been a major target of the ongoing criticism regarding the quality of food served in fast food restaurants as well as its health care plan (Albala Allen, 2007). For instance, McDonald’s Bigger Big Mac was said to contain an entire day’s recommended allowance of saturated sales. In addition, the company’s plan to drop the health care plan for nearly 30,000 workers due to the new requirements of health overhaul has received a lot of criticism from the media, employees, and consumers (Adamy, 2010). Health issues and numerous litigation law suits have significantly reduced sales revenue at McDonald’s. McDonald’s has been on the spotlight regarding its labor practices (Albala Allen, 2007) The restaurant crew is dominated by young teenagers, immigrants, elderly, and handicapped (Albala Allen, 2007) and the working conditions are unsafe due to restaurants’ proximity to highways hence increased cases of armed robbery. Consequently, most workers in McDonald’s occupy their jobs for less than a year which leads to constant loss of experienced labor. Despite the challenges facing the fast food industry, McDonald’s managed to deliver exceptional growth in 2009. Its sales revenue and market share continued to increase giving it a competitive edge over other fast food companies. McDonald’s should use its superior financial performance to improve working conditions in the company. Employment on any level should be permanent and based on individual qualification upon which benefits such as those awarded to full time employees should be awarded to restaurant crew employees. Restaurant crew should be provided with health benefits and accidental insurance cover to protect them against the risks associated with their work. McDonald should provide enhancement and investment benefits to part time workers in order to motivate them to work permanently for the company and to make them feel like they are part of McDonald’ team. The company should further seek to improve its image as an employer by ensuring provision of benefit plans to employees in the franchises. Analysis of Benefit Package While Anticipating Revenue Increment and Revenue Reduction If McDonald’s expects an increment in revenue in the next year, the company should invest heavily on employees by providing them with a wide range of benefit packages to further motivate them. The company should increase employer contribution in the retirement benefit package and should introduce awards and recognition for exceptional performers. In addition, re creational benefits should be increased and the company should seek to contribute more to employees’ social welfare. Further, McDonald’s should seek to meet the 2011 requirement by the department of health and human service which requires McDonald’s to spend 80-85% of its premiums on medical expenses rather than overhead expenses in its mini-med plan (Adamy, 2010). If McDonald’s expects revenue reduction in the subsequent years, the company should seek to reduce its spending on employees benefits by reducing its contribution to recreational benefits package. The company may discourage such benefits through restricting eligible members by demanding improvement in a performance for employee to be awarded holiday and vocational benefits. McDonald’s may also increase employee contribution in the recreational benefits and drop some of the recreational benefits. Therefore, upon revenue reduction anticipation, the company should reduce the amount spent on employees’ benefits by the company but it should be careful not to send negative signals and discourage employees in McDonald’s. Reference List Adamy, J. (2010). Federal Agency Flexible on Mcdonald’s Plan. Retrieved from https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052748704789404575524502131067836 Albala, K., Allen, J. G. (2007). The Business of Food: Encyclopedia of Food and Drink Industries. Westport: Greenwood Publishing Group. Leidner, R. (1993). Fast Food, Fast Talk: Service Work and Routinization of Everyday Life. London: University of California Press. McDonald’s (2011). Company’s official website, McDonald’s corporation. Retrieved from https://www.mcdonalds.com/us/en-us.html

3 Ways to Prepare for Layoffs (Just in Case)

3 Ways to Prepare for Layoffs (Just in Case) Your company is in upheaval. Rumors are flying. The big merger is just a few weeks away and the word of the day is restructuring. While it’s always best to keep your head in uncertain situations, even if you think your job is safe, it never hurts to be prepared.Here are three things you can do now to keep yourself from being blindsided when lay-off time comes around.1. Reach out to your networkAccept the worst in advance and do something about it. Get in touch with former bosses and colleagues. Put the phone tree into action. Explain what’s happening and what you might be looking for, and ask for help. Chances are, someone you’ve impressed in the past will be willing to put your name forward in the right situation. Or, if you’re uncomfortable asking for help, ask for advice. People will be happy to give it, and will still be made aware of your situation; should anything come up, you’d come to mind. Friends and family are also a valuable support syst em, and can often come through in a pinch.2. Plan how youll present your situationAt this point, a lay-off could be part of your career narrative, whether you’d like it to or not. Start figuring out how to work it into your elevator pitch. Come out swinging. Explain the situation clearly and with confidence, and then find a way to make lemonade. Demonstrate that you know your value, in spite of the difficult situation, and that you’re already working constructively to overcome it. That kind of pluck can go a long way with a hiring manager.3. Give yourself a makeoverMake sure your cover letter, LinkedIn profile, and portfolio are all fully updated and in perfect order. Make sure these valuable networking tools are doing exactly what you want them to, and telling the story you want them to tell. Consider making yourself a new set of business cards if you think you’ll soon be on the market.The point is to prepare for the worst, but remain optimistic that it will al l turn out for the best.3 Steps to Prepare for a Potential Layoff

Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis - Essay Example The populations most at risk are those suffering from acute or chronic severe renal insufficiency, from acute renal insufficiency of any severity due to the hepato-renal syndrome, and those patients in the peri-operative liver transplantation period. For all of these patients it is recommended that health care professionals simply avoid the use of GBCA; the only exception being when it is determined that the diagnostic information to be obtained is absolutely necessary and unavailable through the use of non-contrast enhanced magnetic resonance imaging. In addition, as a precautionary measure, it is recommended that health care professionals conduct a screening for all patients for a renal dysfunction by either obtaining a history or carrying out laboratory tests. These screening measures are fundamentally precautionary, however, because "the risk, if any, for developing NSF among patients with mild to moderate renal insufficiency or normal renal function is unknown" (Gadolinium-Based Contrast Agents, 2007).