Journal Article Critique Essay -- essays research papers

Research Article 1Roberts, T. (2003). Effects of Alphabet-Letter Instruction on Young Childrens Word Recognition Electronic Version. Journal of educational Psychology, 95 (1), 41-51. TitleThe title of the article gave a fair representation of the topic as it was clear and concise in the wording. The title encompassed the idea that rudiment letter information on young childrens word lore would be explored through experiments and analysis. Reading on through the article it was evident that the do of first principle letter instruction on you childrens word recognition were addressed.IntroductionExperimental studies have been undertaken throughout the years in relation to alphabet letter instruction. The first of these experiments were undertaken with kindergarten and year one students in the late 1960s and early 1970s. The purpose of these early experiments was to examine the hypothesis that letter-name knowledge played a causal role in the relationship between letter-name knowledg e and early reading. If knowledge of letter names was a causal factor, then instruction that increase childrens letter-name knowledge should increase early reading performance. It was concluded from these early studies that there was little educational benefit to be gained from letter-name instruction.A man by the name of Ehri in 1983 critiqued these early studies and concluded they suffered from a number of methodological flaws. The concluded flaws included training may have been too short and non thorough, treatment groups differed, training did not include instruction in how to use letter-name knowledge for word reading and training the children in small groups resulted in inadequate learning. Since the early studies and Ehris conclusions a great deal of research has demonstrated that letter knowledge is integrally involved in word recognition. The hypotheses and purpose of this by and by study was to examine anew the effects of letter-name knowledge associated with instructio n on beginning phonetic word recognition with methodology correcting for the flaws of previous studies. After instruction the childrens ability to learn 3 types of word spellings was examined. An argument was then formulated that efforts to increase childrens attention to letter information are needed, condition its clear importance in early reading.MethodThe subjects for this stud... ...ponent. The core of this difference seem to centre around how children should be helped to read words not in their sight vocabularies, with parents highly valuing the use of word phonetics and teachers highly valuing the use of context. There were no limitations and future research noted in this study. CritiqueThis article discussed the views and opinions of twain parents and teachers in regards to beginning reading. Literacy development is a major issue within early primary classrooms. Parents views on this were that literacy development is the responsibility of the school. The installation of l iteracy definitely comes from the school but it is at domicile where it is practiced and reinforce and may even overarch the schools responsibility. Children whose parents are unable to assist them at home with their literacy development definitely fall out in respect to ongoing help and support. Children in my primary school classes whose parents were unable to help them struggled with their reading, word recognition and literacy skills the entire way through primary school. This shows that literacy development is not primarily the schools responsibility but the childs parents at home also.

Sports Narrative - Volleyball Tryouts :: Personal Narrative Essays

Personal Narrative- Volleyball TryoutsSix long hours after departing Hotchkiss, we finally reached our destination. We pulled into the parking lot of the Super 8 just off Interstate 76 in Sterling, Colorado. Since I had been to this hotel on a previous trip to Sterling, I began wishing I had brought my swimsuit along. Mom and dad went inside and got the keys for room 129. I was so sick of riding in the car that I did not care what the room looked like as long as there was a bed for me to sleep on. As we entered the room, on the left there was the bathroom sink, a mirror, and a place to hang our good clothes. To the right, was the miniature bathroom. There was not enough space in there for a midget. Stepping out of the entranceway, there was a wooden dresser with a 27-inch television. By the large window, there was a small table. Two queen size beds sat on either side of the nightstand. The purple patterned quilts were quite shocking compared to everything else in the room.Awaking at 700 a.m. on the cool morning of December 7, 2003, I prepare for a long day. I put on the spandex and T-shirt that I will deliver during the tryout at Northeastern Junior College. By 730 a.m., my family is walking over to the neighboring hotels restaurant for our breakfast. It did not take long to purpose that I wanted two golden-brown, buttermilk pancakes with warm maple syrup for breakfast. Both of my parents knew what they wanted right away and as usual, we were all waiting for my little sister to decide. Finally, she clear-cut on the pancakes. It took only ten minutes to get our food and what a relief that was considering my stomach sounded like there was a lion inside. The pancakes were delicious, and my dads biscuits and gravy was yummy. However, the cinnamon bark roll my mom order was hard as a rock and she had to pour maple syrup over it. That did not help it at all. After breakfast, we returned for near lounge time in the hotel room.My dad and sister watched television, my mom crocheted, and I worked on my Kinderbuch for German class. As usual, everyone but me fell asleep. At 1030, we packed all of our things into the back of the Tahoe and pulled around to he front to return the keys.

John Miltons Paradise Lost Essay: Allegory of Sin and Death :: Milton Paradise Lost Essays

Allegory of nefariousness and Death in Paradise garbled That Miltons Paradise Lost is unsurpassed--and hardly equaled--in English literature is generally accepted by critics and scholars. Whether it may have serious flaws, however, and what they may be, is less certain, for it is here that opinion varies. Of particular affair to several(prenominal) is the allegory of Sin and Death (II. 648-883). Robert C. Fox wonders that it has not been the subject of much more critical discussion, asking Is it that Miltons readers are puzzled by this chronological succession and, unable to explain its significance, prefer to pass it over in silence? Or do they regard it as so obvious in nitty-gritty that no interpretive remarks are necessary? (The Allegory 354). Whatever the answer to Foxs query, his point is well taken in a survey of the bibliography of the Modern delivery Association from 1950-1980, fewer than twenty references specifically devoted to this allegory can be located, and ma ny of these, rather than pursuing the question of its appropriateness and/or its importance within the total work, simply investigate its tradition and sources. Merritt Y. Hughes, in referring to those scholars who have commented on the allegory, writes that for two centuries critics agreed that the step into pure allegory in Sin and Death was a blemish on the poem and an external incrustation. Recently they have been wondering whether it is not a part of the structural irony of the consentient design (177). It is this latter view on which this paper focuses the allegory is indeed an integral part of the whole of Paradise Lost, not an error of judgment on Miltons part, as some critics believe. It is defensible on two levels, both in terms of structure and in terms of content. Since it is the presence of allegorical figures--abstractions--in the epic to which some critics object, it is necessary here to discuss both allegory and epic form. Allegory, according to William Flint Thr all and Addison Hibbard, is defined as an extended metaphor in which objects and persons in a narrative . . . are equated with meanings that lie outside it, uses characters that are usually personifications of abstract qualities, the action and the setting representative of the relationships among these abstractions. Allegory attempts to evoke a duple interest, one in the events, characters, and setting presented, and the other in the ideas they are intended to convey or the significance they bear (7-8).

The End of Oppression for Jamaican Women Essay -- Oppression Feminism

The End of Oppression for Jamaican WomenWomen have been oppressed in many places and in many different ways over the years, only if in Jamaica this continuing trend is finally to be broken. Sexual or gender in have-to doe withity represents as essential and integral feature of social dealings and culture construction in Jamaica, where for the past four hundred years colonial and imperialist exploitation has governed the development of economic, political, and sociocultural patterns and structures.(Harrison Women in Jamaicas Urban knowledgeable Economy pg. 12)Women have different roles in politics, economics and religion than their counterparts. It is meaning(a) to know not just the general role of women, but it is also important to know where they come from. Women have not played a big role in politics, have been oppressed economically, and have not received equal pay. In the Rastafarian culture women are subservient, this is slowly changing. Where does this leave Jamaican women? A race looking for strong women role models.Black women do not lack heroines or role models. They do though, need to rescue them from the shadows of selective history. (http//www.internurse.com /marymain.htm) Throughout the history of Jamaica there have been great women leaders and musicians, such as, nurse of the Maroons, Queen Omega, Mary Jane Seacole, Marcia Griffith, Judy Mowatt, and Sister Carol. Currently it is very important today in Jamaica for young girls to have role models. Not only has Jamaican indian lodge and Rastafarian culture suppressed women, but other countries have as well. Going way back in history to the 1700s one can go on a strong woman who is still talked about today. Nanny of the Maroons lived in the 1700sm when people living in Ja... ..., 1997, URL http//www.bobmarley.com/life/legacy/rita/ritainterview.html. Steffens, Roger, Rita Marley, URL http//hem.passagen.se/perdavid/ritaM.htm. 4/3/00. Timm, Bob, Interview with Sister Carol, Nov 3, 1999, URL http //ska.about.com/entertainment/ska/library/1999/aa110399b.htm. 4/11/00. United Nations Research Institute for Social developing, Consultation on Gender and Industrial Policy, Aug. 1995, URL http//www.unrisd.org/html/focus/focus1/eng/f1e12.htm. 4/3/00. Webmasterjamaicaway.com, Excellent Nanny of Maroons, 1999, URL www.jamaicaway.com/Heroes/NannyPage.html. 4/3/00. Webmastersit.edu, Jamaica Gender and Development, Jan 10, 2000, URL http//www.sit.edu/studyabroad/americas/jamaica.html. 3/25/00. Whitemanm, Burchell, Nanny of the Maroons, Feb. 1998, URL www.kasnet.com/heroesofjamaica/nan/nan/nan1.htm. 4/3/00.

Comparing The Long Love That in My Thought Doth Harbor and The Flea Ess

Comparing Wyatts The Long Love That in My Thought Doth Harbor and Donnes The Flea Every century has its witness poetry poetry has its own personality and aspects, especially manage poems. In the sixteenth century, poems about love were more(prenominal) about the court than the lover. In the next century (the 17th), the poems of love were more about courting the lover. An author from the sixteenth century, Sir Thomas Wyatt the Elder, is well known for his lyrics pertaining to love. An author from the seventeenth century is John Donne, who is most famous for his love-poetry. When comparing these twain authors, the theme of love is very apparently different. Sir Thomas Wyatt the Elders love poems, such as The Long Love That in My Thought Doth Harbor, wear down an imprint of a strongly individual personality. besides the personality is a very different one from John Donnes. 1 One of John Donnes lyrics, The Flea, is an exemplary of the seventeenth centurys love poems that have a theme that focuses on the lover. In the sixteenth century, the poems were obviously not written for the lover, simply for the court. The poem The Long Love That in My Thought Doth Harbor expresses this point through its imagery of a battle. Not many people would compare their love to a battle, because if they did, it probably would not be a true love. Wyatts conceit is a siege (battle), and he concentrates on the theme that the lover suffers in this poem. Wyatts poems are not typical love poems most people would expect desire, true love winning in t... ...found in the sixteenth century. The seventeenth century is more open to the idea of a physical love as well as a spiritual love. The sixteenth century focuses on love in the court rather than the lovers. The theme of love in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries is treated the same in some regards and differently in others. On the whole, Donne compares love to what he feels, whereas Wyatt compares love to a battle. Poems about love have drastically changed throughout the centuries. Love poems have evolved, as have people. But as the poem The Long Love That in My Thought Doth Harbor cites, For good is the life ending faithfully. Its all worth it in the end. It is conk out to have loved and lost, than to have never loved at all.

Comparing The Long Love That in My Thought Doth Harbor and The Flea Ess

Comparing Wyatts The Long Love That in My purview Doth cling to and Donnes The Flea Every century has its own poetry poetry has its own personality and aspects, especially sleep with poems. In the sixteenth century, poems about live were more about the court than the bonkr. In the next century (the seventeenth), the poems of love were more about courting the lover. An author from the sixteenth century, Sir Thomas Wyatt the Elder, is well know for his lyrics pertaining to love. An author from the seventeenth century is John Donne, who is most famous for his love-poetry. When comparing these two authors, the theme of love is very apparently different. Sir Thomas Wyatt the Elders love poems, such as The Long Love That in My Thought Doth Harbor, bear an imprint of a strongly individual personality. But the personality is a very different one from John Donnes. 1 One of John Donnes lyrics, The Flea, is an exemplary of the seventeenth centurys love poems that have a them e that focuses on the lover. In the sixteenth century, the poems were obviously not written for the lover, but for the court. The poem The Long Love That in My Thought Doth Harbor expresses this loony toons through its imagery of a battle. Not many great deal would compare their love to a battle, because if they did, it probably would not be a true love. Wyatts conceit is a siege (battle), and he concentrates on the theme that the lover suffers in this poem. Wyatts poems are not typical love poems most people would expect desire, true love winning in t... ...found in the sixteenth century. The seventeenth century is more open to the idea of a physical love as well as a spiritual love. The sixteenth century focuses on love in the court rather than the lovers. The theme of love in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries is treated the same in some regards and differently in others. On the whole, Donne compares love to what he feels, whereas Wyatt compares love to a bat tle. Poems about love have drastically changed throughout the centuries. Love poems have evolved, as have people. But as the poem The Long Love That in My Thought Doth Harbor cites, For good is the life ending faithfully. Its all worth it in the end. It is better to have loved and lost, than to have never loved at all.

Increasing Hate Crime Awareness in the US Essay

Though latest report released last October 2006 by the US Department of Justice FBIs coherent Crime Reporting (UCR) Program showed a decrease in total number of reported incidents, 7,163 in 2005 vs. 7,649 in 2004 ( loathe Crime Statistics 2005), there has been an inversely increment awareness on this topic among various stakeholders legislators, law enforcement officials, and the American public such that term hate crime has become a part of fooling vernacular among Americans.Three factors contributed to this growing awareness. Firstly, the organizational initiatives, normally the offended party group in order to protect their civil rights, are taking progressive roles, through their advocacy campaigns, support services and education programs.Prominent proponents, among others, are American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) for all Americans, Anti-Defamation League (ADL) for the Jewish, Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG), Massachusetts representation on Disability (M OD), La Alianza Hispana for the Latin-Hispanics and National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) for African-American group. Secondly, the Federal Government on its part, through the DAs Office has a Civil Rights Unit composed of attorneys for education and intervention services, working in cooperation with victim-witness advocates.In addition, Governors Task Force on Hate Crime has its Stop the Hate Website Campaign promoting awareness of hate crimes and providing resources for responding to and preventing such acts. Thirdly, concerned group initiatives, such as NGOs in the likes of Southern Poverty legality Center (SPLC) that combats hate, intolerance and discrimination through education programs and litigations, play an independent, third-party role in increasing hate crime awareness.

Environmental Protection

Many centuries ago people lived in harmony with nature because industry was not much developed. There was no ecological problem until people built lots of plants and factories which sent wastes into the air, water and land where they didnt disappear but lasted forever in one form or another. Nowadays people live only according to their wants and requirements, they ignore the laws of nature. Thats why today the contradictions between man and nature are dramatic. People are behind destroying the nature environment around them.Today we are anxious ab step to the fore the state of the air we breathe because every year world industry throws out into atmosphere about 1 000 million tons of dust, smoke and other harmful substances and people of many cities suffer from smog. Another reason why there is such high level of air pollution in large cities is because of car exhaust fumes from very intensive transport. A immense occur of plants get used to dump poisonous chemical wastes in rive rs, lakes and seas that has led to polluting water and killing fish life.At present time pollution from change posture ships and tankers with oil is increasing and there is a strong destruction of sea life. We face the fresh water supply problem today because of the depletion of water resources and the fluttering of water cycle. Speaking about atmosphere we should mention ozone holes which are result of air pollution and their increase can lead to the destruction of the whole great chain of life of our planet.The pollution of the air, oceans, seas, rivers and lakes and the destruction of the ozone layer could lead our planet to a global catastrophe. But the most terrible catastrophe of our age is the Chernobyl contingency which has resulted not only in atomic explosion but has brought death to 300 thousands hectares of farm lands and has affected the lives of millions of people. The radiation doses have affected and will run to affect the health of people living in contaminated areas.The Earth is our home thats why we must take measures to fight land pollution and wait our environment clean we must plant trees and flowers and take worry of animals, we must not throw our wastes into the rivers. In many countries environmental protection organizations such as Green Peace, Friend of the Earth, World Wild Life Fund are set up which try to put pressure upon the governments that dont care for ecology in their countries. The humankind will be able to survive only if we all realize that environmental protection is our universal concern.

Fender’s Supply Chain Management Essay

The worlds manufacturing leader annexe Guitar Company which was open up in 1946, the full name of buff tuneful Instruments Corporation. In the past 60 years, original has become one of the h either toldmarks of the unite States. The contribution of Fender sounds modern music development has already been spread in globular and still continuing. Through the first to introduce the commercialization solid electric guitar, produced the first electric bass and numerous guileless speaker. The style of Fender musical cocks embarrasss jazz, pop, rock, country music and so on. Everyone from beginners to enthusiasts and even the world-re todayned performers all give the gate find the suitable musical instruments for them. Fender intends to position itself in the keep company not only a revered music industry name, but also a cultural icon (HREF 1). Fender Squier series of guitar, bass, speakers and otherwise increases combined with its full line of Fender acoustic guitar consider ing the price for focusing on musicians endurance offers a wide range of options.Long-term development by the inspired, Fender created a complete product line of maestro-grade guitar and bass speakers. Fender has a series of pro audio, including complete portable sound systems, professional-grade audio equipment. Fender also provides a wealth of accessories, including strings, standard replacement parts, Fender logo strap, as well as casual wear. Fender set the assembly prove in Arizona Scottsdale California Cornona Tennessee, Nashville Mexico Ensenada London Germany Dusseldorf Paris, France and Gothenburg, Sweden. In North America distribution centre, Fender is the only distributor of electric instruments in the United States and Canada. They provided music equipment products from the main series to accessories. Fenders w behouse directly commits to more than 1500 musical instrument dealers who located in the United States and Canada.2Fenders put up scope managementFrom 1946 till now, 60 years experience in business management, fender has a very sophisticated tack fibril management in its product parts procurement and sales activities. Although the structure of their cater chains gradually updated and changed by the age development. However, from the international status of today of Fender in the guitar industry around of the world, which has already proven the success of append chain management in Fender and also clearly discover that the importance of doing supply chain management in their businessactivities. I plan to analyze the typical aspects case by case of Fender in their supply chain management. It includes the international market supply chain strategy, supplier selection, customer strategies, raw material supply chain management, supply chain partners.2.1 Fenders global supply chainFender positioned their products for the highest note, high- shade, medium quality. The highest quality products manufacturing at corona factory in California . Ensenada factory in Baja California, Mexico is responsible for the output of medium to high-end guitar. Fender also positive their market to Asia. They contracted with the Asian guitar manufacturers to manufacture fender guitar. And also produce the cheap Squier guitar to meet the needs of different consumers.Fender Guitar previously only popular in the United States, but since 1990, Fender guitar expanded the market into Japan and has achieved outstanding results. Fender was in its Ensenada, Mexico plant started to produce the guitar for the Japanese market, although only a small number of turnout, but is a signal to enter the international market. Squier brand by Fender is a marketing tool to win the business. It also made the introduction of the foundation for Sratocasterr series in international market. Gradually, Stratocaster exhaust become increasing popular in Japan, China, South Korea and Indonesia. Fenders supply chain management made successful in Asian.2.2 Fenders typical suppliersIn recent years, Fender Musical Instruments Corporation purchased a number of instrument from his supplier, these suppliers including the Guild Guitar Company, the Sunn Amplifier Company, and other brands such as SWR Sound Corporation (HREF 1). 2003 early, Fender made some adjustment for its family of products Gretsch and started the production and distribution of new Gretsch guitars.2.3 Fenders new supply chain strategyFender plans to promote their products can be more clearly conveyed. They announced in Feb. 2007 will be to produce a product glide by with illustrations of replace the traditional front-line journal of the year. This change in set to give publicity by its supply chain follow considerations, The traditional comprise of printing, as well as the most trend copyright convenient substitute for cyberspace magazine, which cansolve the printing, distribution, copyright issue of cost and time. The guide contains a set of new Fender product introduction and picture. The new Fender Frontline In-Home will be conveyed to customers the latest products of Fender, and the provision of mail to customers if they need and have registered in the Fender website. This shows that the Fender was constantly improving its customer service systems to optimize their supply chain management.2.4 Fenders Australia supply chainFender in Australia has a complete supply chain system, but it still has a few aspects need to improve. Fender established more than 92 local authorized dealers in the Australia, 26 in NSW (HREF 2). Fender distributes Recommended Retail Price (RRP) information to all of its authorized Fender bargainers in Australia, but the retailers is no obligation to follow recommended price, so retailers can manage the price flexibility in different regions.Fender in Australia also provides the service of identification of guitars of customer own. Through the phone and internet application, customer can bring their guitar to retailer shop. In the sell model, Fender Australia does not sell directly to consumers. Customers need to find an authorized Fender Dealer to buy the product. It required Fender need to establish more enough dealers to satisfy the customers from different regions. I must give up some authorisation customer in small regions when Fender want to cut cost for retail establish.In addition, Fender provides the service to customer to help them value their advantages of guitar choice. They argon dealing with an established local business and provides warranty for local customer, and also customer can receive excellent advice from a professional from Fender.2.6 Fenders American supply chainFenders commitment to achieve customer satisfaction, all the production lines in the United States must first be assigned to the Fenders California warehouse. Products must pass stringent inspection and quality control process to allow the shipment. Fender staff inspect all equipment to interpret that the voices of debug ging, interoperability, as well as the unloading of containers from retailers.Fender use Barcode system to inventory all products. The savings from bar code system will be in the form of the elimination of running the same orders twice due to error (Joansson, 2008). Barcode system can efficiently locate and retrieve any abandoned product in seconds by computer operating. Bar code also provides an important follow-up of the electronics and data, including price information, model and serial number, transportation and receiving dates. It helpful convinced(p) service to dealers.Before shipment, the products need to be inspected stringently again. Fender distribution center provide their dealers a variety of shipping way. The high quality ship and quickly delivery time by only 3-4 working days from warehouse to United States and Canadian dealers.For Fenders supply chain management, the quality of product would be put in the heading mission. Fender insists that they can provide the hig h quality and also valued their network of customers and dealers in order to efficiency distribution systems in the musical instrument industry (HREF 1)3. The value-add from Fenders supply chain partners3.1 Outsouring and supply chain integrationThird-party logistics is no stranger to Europe, as a business outsourcing industry has been in Europe several hundred years of history. Many well- spangn companies such as Schenker. They began to use such as the provision of transport, warehousing and other services.However, due to pickyization aware of the importance of paying attention to outsourcing and as the rise of an industry was beginning from 80s, 90s during the 20th atomic number 6 in United States (Weng, 2006). According to statistics, in 1992 the United States third-party logistics market turnover of 35 billion U.S. dollars, accounting for the logistics market, the total turnover of 2% -3% in 1996 has reached 50 billion U.S. dollars, an increase of the total logistics market to 5% 6%, and third-party logistics in the United States in 1997 and 1998, the business growth of 40% and 15% respectively. Third-party logistics began to extend to all parts of the world from the United States, todays third-party logistics business world as a whole accounted for about one-third and also a 15% annual growth rate.(Li, Yu & Xu, 2006).Third-party logistics companies in the supply chain is a link, it will throughout the supply chain of other companies as its clients and customers. While in domain the demand for customer-oriented environment is bound to drive with the strengthen communication between the logistics enterprise and the each member of the supply chain in order to know each other more than before(Li, Yu & Xu, 2006). To become effective organizers and managers of the supply chain, we must first understand the specific circumstances of the members, along with third-party logistics own familiarity with the logistics are out-of-the-way(prenominal) higher than th at of other members, so third-party logistics enterprise supply chain integration is of course an expert. It is for this reason that more enterprises are now seeking cooperation with third-party logistics companies to supply chain integration. For example, Fender collaborated with Global logistics company-UPS to integrate their supply chain and improve the performance.UPS distribution center in United Kingdom helps Fender to complete its process of melt lines and centralized so that the Fender Company in recent years to achieve sales in Europe doubled in the Scheme. UPS management from factories from all over the world on sea and land purchase by a third party logistics companies to manage their inventory EDCs. EDCs inspection by the quality of the employees to view the inventory, distribution and retailers to meet orders, manage the delivery of multi-carrier. Fender can shorten the delivery time and better monitoring of the quality and delivery of orders. more(prenominal) importa ntly, before UPS ship the guitar to the retails. They will complete each of the guitar tuning to ensure that you can play guitar when retailers remove products from t he box.3.2Fender also value their partnerFender and BestBuy established a collaboration relationship in 2008. in July 28,2008, BestBuy announced they will open up 2500 square feet of Music centers in its 85 stores for sale include Fender, Gibso and other well-know brands, including more than 1000 kinds of ordinary accessories, music high guitar, bass, DJ equipment, musical instruments of professional products and provide enthusiasts gathering irrigation discs, musical training services(Rudnick,2008).Facesto about 80 billion a year U.S. musical instrument market, as was the same as BestBuy Mobile implementation, BestBuy and Wal-Mart can share the music game market from now on. However, it has a highly requirement for supply chain management of suppliers. Accordingly, Fender reduced the delivery time for 1 week through o utsourcing logistics management companys entire system of UPS, and also decreased by almost 10% of distribution costs (HREF 3). It not only meets the fast delivery postulate from BestBuy, but also reduces the total cost ownership of Fender.4. Supply Chain Operation Reference (SCOR) model in FenderThe basic elements of the SCOR model are4.1 Planning in Fender Supply ChainIn the planning phase, fender first plan resources. They are planning the parts of guitar, the definition of the demand for production and purchase. For finical materials, such as the type of wood to a strict screening, different corresponding and various types of woods are produced for different types of guitar series, even take up some wood seasoned for several years, this is a long-term resource planning process.Secondly, Fenders production team is not only has the professional production skills, but also the production of each staff is professional guitar enthusiasts. In this making planning stage. The need for a clear definition of the plan and need to be aware of the guitar development at this stage and clear understand the needs of the consumer. People always say that guitar is a burnish, for the designers, the experience of this culture for the guitar production is very important.Thirdly, delivery work in the sales process is particularly important. Fortunately, Fender made strategy with 3PLs which brought a large advantage in the issue of product shipments for them. Faster, reduce costs and ensure security is the best result in the SCOR model implement in Fender.Finally, in the return planning, it can be defined as the return of commodity and return of profit. Fender has developed its product returning of after-sales service system, including maintenance, replacement and the responsibility for risk protection. Fender makes the return of profit havemore capital to develop new sales markets, the design of new products and increase the welfare of employees.Source from Lee Styger, 2009 4.2 bring out to stock & Make to orderWhatever in selling online or retail sales, Fender is trying to maintain adequate stock to meet the needs of customer. Absolutely, in the fashion model of a reasonable forecast, Push (make to stock) model can help Fender improve sales performance, as well as Fender can fast response capability. However, over storage, high inventory level will lead to cost increased. In addition, many customer want to buy a special appearance and type guitar from Fender.Therefore, Fenders Custom Shop was established to meet those needs. They use Pull (make to order) model when customer release the order to them. convention and produce the specifically product to customer. However, it is also has some limited by Pull model, timeless will be a biggest challenge for Fender production line. Thus, keep the necessary raw material by Push model is necessary. This kind of Hybird model still suit for most manufactory companies, such as McDonalds and vehicle industry.C onclusionsSupply chain is critical for Fender Guitar Company. The manufacturing sector has heavily depends to supply chain management, whatever in its purchase of raw materials, plant location, production planning, warehouse management, transportation, sale of products and customer service. All of these cannot be separated from supply chain management. Obviously, Fender made a good job in its supply chain management. Although there are a few problems still need to optimize by Fender via supply chain development.The recommendation can be included that make risk and cost analysis when Fender want to expand their sale network, because too much retail outlets establishment lead to cost increased. In addition, the accession to join the online shopping business, allowing online orders, online payment, order tracking, such as a series of e-supply chain strategy, so that the fender can be a richer sales model, reduce the cost and time instead of text paper working process, and it also cater the tastes of young people. Absolutely, the new electronic supply chain strategy can also be outsourced tothird-party logistics companies.ReferencesJoansson,J2008,http//bsminfo.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=625&Itemid=147, accessed 15/05/2009Li, Y, Yu, J & Xu, L 2006, 3PLs in supply chain management, http//www.globrand.com/2006/18441.shtml, accessed 12/05/2009Rudnick, M 2008, Best Buy, Super-Regional See Major Gains in White Good, http//www.allbusiness.com/company-activities-management/sales-selling-sales/9341175-1.html, accessed 14/05/2009Weng, D 2006, 3PLs-The Breakthrough of Supply Chain Innovation, http//www.globrand.com/2006/40390.shtml, accessed 12/05/2009HREF 1 ww.fender.com, accessed 13/05/2009HREF 2 http//www.fender.com.au/prices.php, accessed 13/05/2009HREF 3 http//www.globrand.com/2009/226020.shtml

Christian perspectives on personal, social and world issues Essay

in that location ar two terms regarding poverty- Absolute poverty, which is when you do non bedevil large money, or provender for thought for your basic everyday admits. congenator poverty, which is when you jackpotnot impart what, is seen as normal in a given society. in that respect is a resembling the term wealth, which is when you argon rich with abundant possessions and money, you argon prosperous. Most masses in ternion human countries spanking in absolute poverty, while a large proportion of the great unwashed who live in first creation countries be wealthy.Hunger is a feeling, which you feel when you have not eaten for some clock time, 1/5th of the domain of a functions race goes hungry. Disease is an unhealthy condition or an illness, which stinker lead to death and in that respectfore disrupts a familys ability to raise income (as at that place atomic number 18 fewer people in the family). Both thirst and unhealthiness ar two main causes of dea th in todays world, especially in third world countries. This is because developing third world countries are a lot vileer than first world countries so everyday necessities that are taken for granted such as clean, safe water, medicines and food as they are not so readily available (they cannot afford to provide them).For example millions of people die to each one year from drinking polluted water, this is mainly in third world or developing countries. Disease is a problem in third world countries because of the lack of technology and medicine available, and because the climate is so hot and there is no way of getting rid of rubbish so vermin are tempted bringing in unsoundnesss such as the plague. in that location are also very few vaccinations available so millions of unvaccinated children die of diseases such as measles, whooping cough and tetanus, each year making third world countries have a very high death rate. In third world countries they tend to have a very large popu lation of mainly young children, this is because parents trust children so that they can start work at an early age and bring money in to the family. Contraception is also rarely available so many un treasured children are born. Un handle in first world countries where families choose to have children at a after date because more(prenominal) women prefer material possessions and like to have a decent amount of money before they bring up a family. There is a very high infant mortality rate in third world countries because of the contraception crisis as deadly diseases such as back up are easily passed onto children and the lack of food actor that many die from hunger.First world countries are somewhat different from third world countries- liveliness expectancy is very high (there is a low death rate) as there is better technology available so there are more cures for diseases, which means that more people have a better feel of living to an older age. There are also vaccinations available so that the chance of catching a disease is decreased. Infant mortality rate is very low as m some otherwises can choose when they want a family and can block up unwanted pregnancies by using a variety of contraceptive methods. People also have a higher disposable income so they can afford to spend more money on food etc- so it is very rare for people to die of starvation.There are four myths ab disclose world hunger. These are There is not enough food to go round. World hunger is caused by over- population. Starvation is the result of cancel disasters. Science will be able to cure hunger.The myth around there not being enough food to go around basically means that there is not enough food upon the earth to go around all of the people who live there. This is false because there is enough food to go around moreover it is not evenly distributed. There is more food in richer countries because people can afford to buy it, this means that people are prepared to switch/ st ir food and sell it to richer countries so they can make money for themselves. People in developed countries also have more money so they want a more varied choice of food. Unfortunately poorer countries suffer, as there is never enough food to go around, as they do not have technology/tools to provide their own or the money to buy it. If people shared food or else of wasting it and eating more than they need to starvation would not be an issue.World hunger being caused by over population means that there is too many people in the world today so food is becoming more scarce and some people cannot get hold of much. This is also false because there is enough food to go around but people in richer countries waste a lot of food as it is taken for granted. Although someone could argue that as the population increases more land is taken up to be built on which leaves less room for cattle grazing, growing crops etc so less food can be produced.Starvation being the result of natural hazard s means that due to natural hazards such as floods, earthquakes or drought food sources are being wiped out and so people of starving. This is also false because not every coun yield has natural hazards and they definitely do not all have them at the same(p) time. So, when a country is in crisis due to a natural hazard other countries should aid them out and provide food for them. There is plenty of food in the world but by giving it to poorer countries it will mean that they will loose money. Someone could argue that natural hazards are a cause of starvation because poorer countries tend to have a lot of drought so it is hard to grow crops and graze animals on the poor soils. Also, countries are prone to flooding which drowns crops and animals so no food can be produced.Science being able to cure world hunger means that in the future scientist could discover a new social function for example a new type of crop which could live in all conditions so it could grow in all countries. This myth could either be true or false because nobody can predict what science will be like and what new discoveries we will make. So perhaps in a few years will be able to produce a super food, which can grow in any conditions and feed thousands. Science costs money though, and this is what poor countries do not have so they will not be able to purchase whatever comes out. Countries affected by starvation could be waiting for years for a new discovery so in the mean time people will be dying from starvation.So, Christians believe that if people in rich countries eat and waste less world hunger can be tackled. Christians also believe that Gods creation is good and everyone should be hold deared equally and have a chance to live a happy career- without being poverty stricken due to greedy people.Here are some examples of the biblical teachings Christians follow on the teachings of hunger and disease An example of greed is in some of the laws, which God told to the Israelites (Deut eronomy 24.14-22). He saysWhen you beat the olives from the trees, do not go over the branchesa second time. Leave what remain for the foreigner, the fatherlessand the widowWhen you harvest the grapes in your vineyard, do not go over the vinesagain. Leave what remains for the foreigner, the fatherless and the widowThis proves that God does not want Christians to be greedy and shows that they should wait on others who are in need by sharing what they have. Another example of this is the parable of the rich fool (Luke 1216-21). A man produced a good crop and he did not have enough room to store it anywhere, so he wanted to build large barns. God punished him by demanding his life from him and he shelp This is how it will be with anyone who stores up things for himself but is not rich towards God. Christians should help others and instead of saving/storing things for themselves they should give them to other needy people- or God will not be happy and he will punish them. This shows that those who pile up riches for themselves are not rich in Gods view and that for someone to gain eternal life they must give and share.Also in Deuteronomy 24.14-22 it says super acid shalt not oppress an hired servant that is poor and needy, whether ornot he be of thy brethren for he is poor and setteth his summation upon it.Which means that people should not put poor and needy people down (even if they are below you, you should not look down on them) you should help them instead no outcome who they are.The teaching of The fall in Genesis 3.1-19 is intimately temptation and it concludes why the world is the way it is today. Serpents (snakes) were made to crawl on their belly because the one in the story tempted Eve to eat the forbidden fruit. As Eve took the apple all women suffer pain when giving birth. Christians believe that people are made to suffer because of what happened in The fall.In Genesis 1.26-31 (stewardship) Christians believe that God was the one who created th e world and he created it in reflection of how he wanted people to behave in it (good). They believe that human beings should look after the world and his creations in it (that was their purpose of being on the earth), so they should not rib or destroy it. He said that they will have power over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over the livestock, over all of the earth, and over the creatures that sound along the ground. But he did not want humans to take advantage of this.The parable of the sheep and goats is also important because it is about people either deviation away to eternal punishment or to eternal life. The separation of the sheeps and the goats is relating to the separation of people who treat other people well (as the Nazarene did) and people who do not. deliveryman says to the people who followed him (by treating people nicely)For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and yougave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you in vited me in, Ineeded habilitate and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, II was in prison and you came to visit me.To the people who did not follow his commands he says the same thing but changes it to a negative comment e.g. For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat. This explains that those who provided for the needy were blessed while those who turned their backs on the needy were damn with eternal punishment. Which is why Christians feel that they have to help the needy.The parable of the Good Samaritan is also important, this deals with the issue of who should be helped. It is about a man who is stripped of his uniform and beaten by robbers while he is on his way to Jerusalem. Both a Priest and a Levite (two well respected pillars of the Jewish religious community) walked on the other side of the road and passed by him. A Samaritan came (who were despised and hated) and took pity on him he looked after him and took him to an Inn. This shows how one man s uddenly put out all his religious beliefs by going instantly to the aid of other man who was in pain and suffering.In Corinthians 813-15 it saysAt the present time your plenty will supply what they need, so thatin turn their plenty will supply what you need. Then there will beequality.This means that you should treat others as you wish to be treated. So, when they are in need and you help them out, you may eventually be repaid by them returning the favor to help you out in times of need. This is another reason why Christians feel that it is important to help other people who are in need.In Amos 84-10 there are references to the way which people should treat each other it saysyou who trample the needy and do away with the poor of the landskimping the measure, boosting the price and cheating with picaresquemeasureI will never forget anything they have doneI will turnyour religious feasts into mourning and all you singing into weeping.This means that to people who try and rip other people off by charging too much or giving them too little etc will be punished and God will never forget what they have done. The same message again comes across, that people should treat each other in the same way that they wish to be treated and they should not be greedy and try to make a little more money for themselves.In bath 13.34-35 Jesus says that you should Love one another as I have loved you. This is important because Jesus helped everyone who was in need regardless of their race or colour, he treated everybody equally and this is what Christians should do if they want to follow Jesus.Christians believe that you should treat others as they wish to be treated. In Colossians 31-15 it sayswhatever belongs to your temporal natureevil desires and greedTherefore, as Gods chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothesyourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.This shows why Christians try and help other people who are not as well off as them. They f eel that they are being greedy because they are living a life of luxury while people are starving in other countries struggling to feed their families. God wanted them to be kind and equal not greedy and selfish. They want to do as Jesus says so they should be kind and generous to other people who are in need. People should stand up evil and discrimination by helping others who are in need.Christian aid was set up in 1945 to help many Europeans who had been made homeless person by the Second World War. The churches collected 1 million for this work and by 1948 they decided to collect money for the people in the third world too. In September 1945 it officially became Christian Aid, a department of the British council of churches (all the non- Roman Catholic Churches). Christian Aid believes that Gods new schema for a new world is to put the poorest first. So it provides help for poor people in less economically developed countries (LEDCs). Christian Aid flora wherever the need is greatest, irrespective of religion.It supports local organisations, which are best placed to understand local needs, as well as giving help on the ground through 16 overseas offices. Christian Aid believes in strengthening people to find their own solutions to the problems they face. It strives for a new world alter by an end to poverty and campaigns to change the rules that keep people poor. They believe that all people were made in Gods image so they are all equal and they should be treated equally. Christian Aid wants to give poverty stricken people the chance to live equally and gayly like other people in the world, they want to reduce the gap between the rich and the poor, the powerful and powerless.Christian Aid now works in over sixty countries making many poor/homeless peoples life better, by giving both emergency aid and long term assistance to try and battle against poverty. They try and do this by fundraising- Christian Aid needs money to help relieve poverty. Christia n Aid has set up a Christian Aid week, which runs in May each year. This has proven to be very successful because in 1995 alone they raised 8.6 million. numerous churches and individuals also contribute by having fund-raising events throughout the year- these tend to raise approximately three times as much as Christian Aid week, so again these are very successful.Christian Aid also supports campaigns to help try and improve the poverty in LEDCs. An example of this was in April 1995 when they launched their first image petition in aid of trying to drop Jamaicas debt. This campaign had a lot of interest from many famous people, for example Richard Wilson and Michelle Gayle. So, this is again another successful appeal from Christian Aid.The emergency aid that Christian Aid does covers a wide range of things and it usually has priority over long-term aid because without it people would die. Christian Aid spends between 10% and 15% on it funds each year on this. It has a disaster fund which deals with natural disasters and refugees. Christian Aid sends food, antibiotics and shelters to people who need them in an emergency. Two examples of this were the flood victims in Bangladesh in 1995, and they also sent tents and food to war refugees in Bosnia and Rwanda. In the Christian Aid statement of intent it says that they want to improve our response to emergencies and work to prevent them. which shows that more can still be done to help people but they need more support and funds.Christian Aid also provides long-term aid for poverty stricken people, towns or villages. Much of Christian Aids long and short-term aid is channelled through Christian organisations in the country concerned. They have done many things to help people, examples of this are They are funding a group of health workers who have built a factory to make basic drugs in Bangladesh (as they cannot afford to import them). This will modify the people of Bangladesh to have easy access to the drugs hopef ully saving lives. In Lesotho Christian Aid is financing a local agricultural school to try and reduce soil erosion to increase food production. This will enable people to eat more and sell more food- increasing their profits.Only about 5% of Christian Aids budget is spent on educating people about the way Christians can help LEDCs and educate Churches of Britain about the desperate need for development. A newspaper is printed four times a year called the Christian Aid news. Which gives information about Christian assist latest developments and world developments. Bob Finley, chairman of Christian Aid has now completed 53 years of ministry as an evangelist, pastor, missionary, Bible teacher and Christian statesman.In the Christian Aid statement of intent it says that they want to give people the chance to make a difference. And they want to help women because they are often the poorest of the poor. This shows that they are not prejudice in any way and they treat all people equally. Christian Aid has brought many people together (mainly Christians) to help fight the battle of poverty and disease which many people struggle with, all of their plans and quick responses show just how much they respect other people and the lengths they will go to, to follow Gods will. Christian Aid is proving to be successful because in 1959 its income was 483,000 and in 1997 it was 39.3 million, this is a massive increase over only 38 years which shows that a lot of people are getting involved.Christians are responsible for(p) for each other- no mater where in the world they live. I disagree with this statement mainly because I am not a Christian and I do not think that it is possible to be responsible for someone who you do not know and who lives so far away. I think that in todays world the average person (like me) cannot do much to help anyone else. I think this because there is too much pressure on you to find money for yourself, as there is a prominent increase in unemploym ent rates and in the amount of people below the average income line. In todays world it is a struggle sometimes to look after yourself and your family never mind people that you do not know and have never met.However, I do think that people in more power (such as the government) should do more to help poverty-stricken people in other countries to a certain extent. I say to a certain extent because only so much money should be spent on them as countries have their own problems to sort out- such as the NHS crisis in the United Kingdom. I do not think that poverty-stricken people should just be given money though, as this is only a short-term answer. I think that governments should get to the root of the problem and work from there. For example instead of providing food for people to eat they should provide seeds and tools so that they can grow their own and let them live more independently.A Christian would have a different point of view though because they believe that they should do all that is possible to help others as that is what God told them to do. They are Brothers and sisters in Christ so they are like brothers and sisters in the family of God. In Colossians 3.11 it saysHere there is no Greek or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian,Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all.Which shows that they believe that the church is a universal organisation consequently all of the Christians in it share the same beliefs so they should be treated the same. The Christian beliefs is what unites them all (Held everything in common)so they should help and care for one another, in the same way that Jesus did not mind who he healed or helped.All of the biblical teachings, which I wrote about above, prove this as this as Christians follow God and the teachings that I wrote about described how God wants Christians to behave around other people. Christians should share- in acts 432-35 it saysAll the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claim ed thatany of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they hadThere were no needy persons among them.This shows that everyone should share so that everyone is treated equally and no one is different. The parable of the rich fool and Gods commandments about harvesting the grapes and beating the olives from the trees proves that Christians should only take what they need and save the rest for other people. This is not everlastingly possible though so Christians find other ways of helping others out- by giving donations to programs such as Christian Aid. I think that Jesus concluded what happens to greedy people in Luke 1216-21 by sayingThis is how it is with those who pile up the riches for themselves butare not rich in Gods sight.As the rich man had to give up his life for being greedy and selfish and no Christians want to be like he was.In the 2 Corinthians 8.13-15 Paul commends the Corinthian Christians for their willingness to give money to help the Jerusalem Chri stians. This is todays equivalent of Christians giving money to other needy people in other countries, they believe that God will commend them for it when they die and go to Heaven. So, this is why Christians believe that they are responsible for each other- no matter where in the world they live.Christians believe that people were created in reflection of God, therefore we were all created equally and good. So, people should treat the more unsuccessful of us the same as they believe that it is what God wanted. Christians would not just help other Christians, they believe that as we were all created the same we all have the right to live the same kinds of lives instead of everyday being a battle to survive. They believe that they should not be greedy therefore people in richer countries should only take the amount of food they need and they should not waste any so there is enough to go around everyone.

College Preparedness Essay

Todays students face a world influenced by a global economy, technological advances and quick changes in the way we sh atomic number 18 tuition, communicate and conduct business. It has never been more(prenominal) critical to sponsor them build the intimacy, skills, behaviors and awargonness necessary to succeed in college and beyond. better postsecondary success for all our citizens, precisely most urgently for low-income and minority students, is vital to our nations economic and social health, and global competitiveness.Yet, college remediation and completion range suggest that many students leave high shallow without the skills and knowledge required to succeed in postsecondary education. (media. collegeboard. com/Feb. 26,2013) College today means much more than just move a four- year degree at a university. Being college- expeditious means being prepared for any postsecondary education or training experience, including study at two- and four-year institutions leading t o a postsecondary credential (i.e. a certificate, license, Associates or Bachelors degree).Being ready for college means that a high school graduate has the side and mathematics knowledge and skills necessary to qualify for and succeed in entry-level, credit-bearing college courses without the film for remedial coursework. Although students have ambitious educational and career aspirations, many lack prefatory knowledge about how to fulfill their postsecondary goals.Many students and their parents fail to plan because they do not have the essential information resources, personal support networks, and structured computer programs they need to effectively perform educational and postsecondary planning activities (Cabrera & La Nasa, 2000 Hrabowski et al. , 1998 McDonough, 1997). Some students and their parents have a vague understanding or hold misconceptions about high school course requirements for college admission, the importance of teachers in college planning, and college tu ition costs (Choy, Horn, Nunez, & Chen, 2000 Hrabowski, Maton, Greene, & Greif, 2002 Schneider & Stevenson, 1999Venezia et al., 2003). (www. aypf. org/ Feb. 27,2013) There are multiple steps that students and their parents fag take to successfully plan for postsecondary education and dumbfound college ready. These steps build upon one another to help students make the transition from secondary to postsecondary education and training (McDonough, 1997).The early stages of postsecondary planning give notice include, but are not limited to 1) Considering postsecondary education, 2) Deciding to att decease college, 3) Maintaining goodgrades, 4) Gathering information about the college admissions process (including college admissions tests), 5) Discussing educational and career goals with counselors, teachers, and parents, 6) Obtaining information about colleges and academic programs, 7) Obtaining information about financial supporter opportunities, and 8) Exploring college major and c areer interests. (www. act. org/Feb. 27,2013)Schools should provide the tools, information, and resources to guide students and their parents by means of the postsecondary planning process and make successful educational transitions.And it is important for schools to bulge out this planning process by the middle school years. This early educational planning burn guide students experiences in middle and high school and help them make informed educational decisions. A key aspect of early educational planning involves the exploration of educational and work options. Students have many postsecondary choices, including biyearly colleges, certificate programs, four-year colleges, the military, and employment.They often begin taking steps to make their educational goals a reality by taking college preparatory courses, maintaining good grades in these courses, dynamic in extracurricular activities, and learning about ways to finance postsecondary education (Cabrera & La Nasa, 2000). And they may regularly engage in conversations about their futures with their friends, parents, teachers, and counselors (McDonough, 1997). College Costs. Most parents regard that a college education is the best investment they can make for their infantren (Miller, 1997).Developing a plan to pay college costs is an essential part of early educational planning, often leading students and parents to discuss college costs, look various colleges and their academic programs, and explore financial aid opportunities (Hossler, Schmit, & Vesper, 1999). However, many parents neglect or are un adequate to lighten money, or do not have a plan to pay for college when their children are young. These families may perceive that they cannot afford college. Many students and parents also lack knowledge and information about college costs and options of paying for postsecondary education.Even among high school juniors and seniors who plan to attend college, few have accurate information about colleg e costs. Schools can help students develop educational goals by providing career and postsecondary planning information, beginning in the middle school. Counselors, teachers, principals, and other school personnel often influence students educational goals and postsecondary planning. Throughout their school years, most students take standardized achievement tests and complete career interest measures to assess academic proceeding and assist in postsecondary planning.Schools can integrate test information into the course selection process to show students how test results align with mobroom performance and what academic skills they need to develop through future courses. Counselors and teachers can review assessment results with students and parents to guide course selection and placement in the proper course level to fit the students academic expression and achievement (Wimberly, 2003). Low-income parents and students often report that they do not receive adequate information abo ut financial aid.They often lack knowledge about the occupation process and what financial aid is available to them. Consequently, low-income parents and students may not develop a college finance plan (Cabrera & La Nasa, 2000). Many high achieving low-income students are more apparent to enter the military than college because of failing to develop a plan to pay for college costs (Choy, 2000). Popular media stories about rising tuition costs and work out cuts at colleges and universities may compound the issue by making it seem that a college education is unaffordable.This, in turn, may cause many students and their families not to desire college finance information. Students often enter their senior year of high school believing they are ready for college because they have completed required courses. This leads to the development of particularly bad study habits and skills during the senior year (Conley, 2001 Kirst, 2000 National Commission on the High School Senior Year, 200 1). In this fashion, the lack of a coherent, developmentally sequenced program of study also contributes to deficiencies in other key areas, including study skills and time solicitude.In fact, it is difficult to imagine a preparation program that emphasizes time management and study skills but does not sequence challenge levels that develop these skills progressively from year to year. What does it mean to be college ready? Previous research suggests that being ready for college means having the academic satiate knowledge and skills needed to pass college level courses (Conley 2007 Roderick, Nagaoka & Coca 2009), including course grades, standardized test scores, and the degree of rigor of courses taken.Additional research suggests that motivational or non-cognitive factors can be important determinants of success in college (Dweck, Walton & Cohen 2011). These factors include tenacity maintaining a positive attitude toward learning and being able to persist when the going gets tou gh. Being college ready also encompasses having college knowledge that includes knowing how to apply to college and for financial aid (Conley 2007).Because college is truly different from high school, college readiness is essentially different than high school competence. Students fresh out of high school may think a college course is genuinely much like a similarly named high school class taken previously only to find out that expectations are fundamentally different The college instructor is more likely to emphasize a series of key thinking skills that students, for the most part, do not develop extensively in high school.They expect students to make inferences, provide results, analyze conflicting explanations of phenomena, support arguments with evidence, solve complex problems that have no obvious answer, reach conclusions, offer explanations, conduct research, engage in the give-and-take of ideas, and more often than not think deeply about what they are being taught (Natio nal Research Council, 2002). College is different from high school in many important ways, whatsoever obvious, some not so obvious. College is the first place where we expect young people to be adults, not large children.Almost all of the rules of the game that students have so guardedly learned and mastered over the preceding 13 years of schooling are either discarded or modified drastically. The pupil-teacher relationship changes dramatically as do expectations for engagement, independent work, motivation, and intellectual development. All of this occurs at a time when many young people are experiencing significant independence from family and from the role of child for the first time. No wonder that the transition from high school to college is one of the most difficult that many people experience during a lifetime.At the identical time, college faculty consistently report that freshman students need to be spending nearly twice the time they indicate spending currently to prep are for class (National Survey of Student Engagement, 2006) These students do not enter college with a work ethic that prepares them for instructor expectations or course requirements College freshmen who are most successful are those who come prepared to work at the levels faculty members expect.Those who do not are much less likely to progress beyond entry-level courses, as witnessed by the high hardship rates in these courses and the significant proportion of college student who drop out during the freshman year. Finally, the relationship between teacher and student can be much different than in high school. An oft-cited example by college faculty is the first-term freshman who is failing the course, shows up at office hours near the end of the term, and requests extra credit in order to be able to pass. College instructors are often mystified by such requests.The students are equally mystified by the instructor reaction, since this strategy has worked very well for the student t hroughout high school In other words, the cultural and social expectations about learning and performance that students encounter tend to be vastly different as well. The scores students receive on realm tests may not be good indicators of college readiness, but students may believe that passage of the state test is just such an indicator.Recent data from the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) suggest a fundamental disconnect between trends and scores on state tests and on NAEP tests, which has triggered a federal study of state translations of proficiency (Cavanagh, 2006) When performance on state tests is compared to NAEP performance, significant differences exist from state to state, and students can show improvement on state tests and not corresponding improvement on NAEP In other words, it is very difficult to know what successful performance on a state test really means.A student who meets all aspects of the college readiness definition would get hold of in several ways. One is, the student would be comfortable in essentially any entry-level general education course. This is an important level to attain because failure to succeed in one or more general education courses during the first year is closely associated with failure to continue in college (Choy, 2001 Choy, Horn, Nunez, & Chen, 2000).A definition of college readiness must also address the issue of how students combine the various facets of college readiness. For students, the combination is more complex because it includes the elements under the schools control along with those that are not. In particular, students need to understand what it really means to be college-ready. They need to understand what they must do as well as what the constitution requires or expects of them.They must, first and foremost, understand that college admission is a reasonable and realistic goal that can be attained through planning and diligent help to necessary tasks. Successful academic prepar ation for college is grounded in two important dimensionskey cognitive strategies and content knowledge Understanding and mastering key content knowledge is achieved through the exercise of broader cognitive skills embodied within the key cognitive strategies.With this relationship in mind, it is entirely proper and worthwhile to consider some of the general areas in which students need strong grounding in content that is foundational to the understanding of academic disciplines The case for the importance of challenging content as the mannequin for developing thinking skills and key cognitive strategies has been made elsewhere and will not be repeated in depth here (Bransford, Brown, & Cocking, 2000).Our study intelligibly shows that many students and their families are not considering college finances as part of their early educational and postsecondary planning. As early as sixth grade, schools can help sour this trend by encouraging families to explore college finance options . School personnel should be knowledgeable about financial aid and scholarship opportunities, the financial aid process, and how students and parents can obtain financial aid.Schools should also partner with local college financial aid officers, bank representatives, and other community resources to provide financial aid information and help with early postsecondary planning. Students need to take the responsibility to utilize the information presented to them on college academic and financial requirements and to discuss this information with adults in their lives who may be able to help them.Not all students have supportive family environments, but support can come from other quarters as well, and students need to be encouraged to reach out to and interact with adults who can help them navigate the college readiness gauntlet, whether these adults are relatives, community service staff, or adults at the school who may be paid staff or volunteers. Young people need personal contact a nd guidance to know how to become, and believe they are capable of being, college-ready.

The Indigo Spell Chapter Nineteen

SOMEHOW, I STILL LOST.If Adrian were capable of on-the-fly calculations, Id swear he was using his powers to affect the way the dice rolled. Most ilkly, he some(prenominal) had some innate and inexplicable Monopoly skills I sightly couldnt understand or he was very, very lucky. just now through it both, I had fun, and losing to him was a great deal discontinue than having Veronica haunt me in my sleep. He continued the dream visits for the next few days, and although I neer felt completely safe from her, I at least didnt confirm her occupying the fore previous of my mind at all times. That honor was saved for my weekend trip to St. Louis, which came most more quickly than I evaluate.in one case I was on the plane, the reality of what I was around to attempt hit me. This was it, the point of no return. In the safety of Palm Springs, Id been able to maintain a somewhat cool and collected attitude. St. Louis had seemed far away back then. Now the tasks ahead of me seemed d aunting and kind of crazy. And d petulanceous. thither was no part of this that wouldnt get me into austere trouble. Lying to Stanton. Breaking into top secret servers. even charming information out of Ian could suck repercussions.And rightfully who was I to think I would pay any ability to lure secrets from him? I wasnt standardized Rose or Julia. They had men fawning all over them. But me? I was socially awkward and beautiful inept when it came to romance. Maybe Ian liked me, but that didnt mean Id have some magical power over him. Of course, if that part of the plan with him failed, then Id be set down of my other tasks.Every single part of this was overwhelming, and as I st ard out the planes window, watching St. Louis grow closer and closer, my feelings of dread grew. My palms were to a fault sweaty to hold a book, and when I refused food, it was because of the queasiness in my stomach, not some obsession with calories.Id gone back and forth on whether to get a hotel r oom or stay at the facility itself, which provided guest housing for visiting Alchemists like me. In the end, I opted for the former. The less time I spent under the watchful eyeball of my masters, the better.It alike meant I didnt have to dumbfound virtually my out run into attracting attention. I hadnt exactly followed all of Adrians suggestions, but the dress Id purchased for this trip was a bit racier than my normal assembly line casual wardrobe. Okay, a lot racier. It would have been completely out of place among the modest and neutral-colored attire Alchemists usually wore. But when Ian met me in the hotels lobby for dinner, I knew Id make the right choice.Wow, he said, eyes widening. You learn amazing.Apparently, his Alchemists sensibilities werent offended by my outfit. It was a form-fitting minidress that went about to my mid-thigh, with an open back and a disconcertingly low V-neck that gave me cleavage I hadnt evening known was possible. Any demureness the dresss l ong sleeves might have offered was undone by the fabric combination a beige underdress cover in black and maroon lace. It gave the illusion that I was wearing lace with no topic underneath. The saleswoman had assured me that every part of the dress was supposed to fit that snugly (for once in my life, Id actually suggested a larger size) and that I necessityed at least four-inch black heels to make it all work. With the help of a lot of h railway linepins, Id even managed to pull my hair up into a bun, which wasnt easy with my layered haircut.I felt conspicuous walking through the lobby, but no one gave me any shocked looks. The few I did get were admiring ones. The hotel was lovely posh, and I was fair(a) one of a number of women dressed in pass cocktail dresses. nothing s undersidedalous or out of the ordinary. You can do this, Sydney. And wearing a revealing dress wasnt nearly as difficult as break of serve into a server, right?Right?I smiled as I approached Ian and gave him a quick hug, which was weird both because it was with Ian and because I felt naked in the dress. This femme fatale thing was harder than Id thought itd be.Im glad I got to see you again, I said. I know what an inconvenience this must be, with no notice.Ian shook his head so adamantly that I almost expected to hear rattling. N-no. No trouble at all.Satisfied hed gotten a look, I slipped on my coat, a mid-length black trench, and gestured toward the exit. Time to brave the elements?He hurried ahead of me to open the door. A scattering of snowflakes drifted down, resting on my coat and hair. My breath made a frosty cloud in the air, and I had a momentary flashback to traipsing across that field with Adrian. Little had I known that search for Marcus would lead to me running errands for him in a tight dress.Ian had parked in the hotels front circle drive. He drove a Toyota Corolla, which was made even more boring by the fact that hed chosen it in white. A little air freshener shaped lik e a tree hung from the rearview mirror, but rather than the usual pine olfactory property, a small label declared it to be New automobile Scent. Mostly it smelled like plastic. I put on a brave face. Marcus really owed me one.I made us a reservation at this really great seafood place, he told me. Its close to the facility, so we can head on over to the service right away.Sounds great, I said. I never ate seafood in any landlocked state.The restaurant was called Fresh Cache, which didnt improve my opinion of it. Still, I had to give it credit for attempts at a romantic atmosphere. Most of the wantoning came from candles, and a pianist in the turning point played covers of easy-listening songs. More salutary-dressed people modify the tables, laughing and chatting over wine and shrimp cocktails. The host showed us to a corner table, covered with burgundy linen and decorated with a scattering of green orchids. Id never seen any up close and was actually quite taken with how exoti c and sensual they were. If only I was here with anyone but Ian.I was hesitant to take my coat off. It made me feel exposed, and I had to remind myself of the consequences of Alchemists and Warriors working unneurotic. As soon as the dress was unleashed again, I had the ecstasy of seeing Ian melt once more. I remembered Adrians advice about confidence and put on a smug smile, hoping I gave the impression that I was doing Ian a great favor by allowing him to be in my presence. And, to my complete and utter amazement, it seemed to work. I even allowed myself to indulge in a dangerous thought maybe it wasnt the dress wielding such power here.Maybe it was me.Opening the menu, I began skimming for a beef or poultry option. What do you recommend?The mahi mahi is great here, he said. So is the swordfish.The seemer stopped by, and I ordered a chicken Caesar salad. I figured they couldnt really mess up the anchovies in the dressing.We were left alone to wait, with nothing to do now but m ove on to small talk. Ian picked up the ball. I suppose you still cant pick out me much about where youre at, huh?Afraid not. You know how it is. I buttered a sourdough roll with what I was pretty sure was exactly half a tablespoon. I didnt pauperism to go too crazy, but I could allow myself a little indulgence since I ordered a salad. I can tell you Im in the field. I just cant say much else.Ians attention shifted off my neckline as he stared into the candles flame. I miss that, you know. Being in the field.You used to be, right? What happened? I hadnt thought much about it lately, but when Ian had accompanied Stanton and me to the Moroi court, he had been pulled from his post to make the trip. Hed been assigned somewhere in the south, Florida or Georgia, I thought.Those Moroi holding us prisoner is what happened. He shifted his gaze back to me, and I was startled at the fierceness I saw. I didnt handle it very well.Well, none of us did.He shook his head. No, no. I really didnt handle it well. I kind of freaked out. They displace me to anger management training afterward.I nearly dropped the roll. I had in no way expected that. If someone had asked me to name the top ten people who needed anger management, Ian wouldnt have even made the bottom of the list. My father, however, would have been near the top.How how long were you there? I stammered.Two weeks, and then I was swell to go.Admittedly, I didnt know the extent of the rage that had landed him in anger management, but I found it interesting that 2 weeks was good enough to deem him ready to work again. Meanwhile, Keiths scheme to use Moroi to make money had take in him at least two months in re-education maybe more, since I hadnt heard any updates in a while.But they wouldnt let me work in the field, Ian added. lick I shouldnt be around Moroi for a while. So thats why Im stuck here.In the archives.Yes.Doesnt sound so bad, I told him. I wasnt entirely lying. Lots of books.Dont fool yourself, Sydn ey. He began tearing a pumpernickel roll into pieces. Im a glorified librarian.Maybe so, but that wasnt my concern. What was my concern was Wade telling me that the archives were on a well(p) level, one floor up from the surveillance room that held security footage. Hed drawn me a map of each floor, making sure I memorized the layout and the best ways to get in and out.Id still love to see them, I said. I mean, the write up they contain is amazing. Again, not entirely a lie. I leaned forward, resting my elbows on the table, and had the satisfaction of seeing his eyes drop to my plunging neckline again. This wasnt that difficult Really, I didnt know why I hadnt been using my womanly charms a long time ago. Actually, I never really knew I had any, until now. Could you get me in for a tour? Of the archives specifically. You seem like the kind of guy who could get access to . . . a lot of places.Ian choked on his roll. After a bout of coughing, he glanced up at my face, then my cleav age (again), and then back to my face. Id, um, love to, but its not really open to the public I mean, even the Alchemist public. Only those with special scholar access are allowed in. We could look at the general access separate of the building, though.Oh. I see. I looked down at my plate, pouting slightly, but didnt say anything else. As the waiter arrived with our food, I hoped my silence was making him reconsider what he could be absentminded out on.Eventually, Ian couldnt take it anymore. He wantoned his throat, maybe because there was still bread stuck in it. Well, I might be able to . . . you see, the problem is just getting you down to the secure levels. Once youre through that checkpoint, its not hard to get you into the archives specially if Im working.But you cant do anything about the main checkpoint? I coaxed, as if all real men should be able to do that.No, I mean . . . maybe. Ive got a friend who works there. I dont know if hes got a shift tomorrow, but he still m ight be able to help. He owes me some money, so I can use this as a trade. I hope.Oh, Ian. I flashed him a smile that I hoped rivaled one of Marcuss. Thats amazing. I remembered what Adrian had said. Id be so, so grateful if you could pull it off.My reaction clearly delighted Ian, and I wondered if Adrian had been right about how so, so grateful was translated. Ill call him tonight after the service, Ian said. He looked determined now. Hopefully we can make it happen before your rush tomorrow.I rewarded him by hanging on his every word for the rest of dinner, as though Id never heard anything quite so fascinating. All the while, my fancy raced with the knowledge that I was now one step closer to fulfilling Marcuss task, one step closer to potentially proving a connection to a bunch of gun-toting zealots and the formation Id served my whole life.The salad was tiny, so I agreed to see the dessert menu after dinner. Ian suggested we share, but that was a little too intimate for me, not to source unhygienic. So, I ate an entire lemon tart by myself, confident in the knowledge that I was still a long ways from the five-pound mark. When Adrian had told me Id look recruitthier if I gained a little weight, hed added that it would improve my bra size. I couldnt even imagine what that would do for this dress.The Alchemist center in St. Louis was contained inside a giant, industrial building that went undercover as a manufacturing plant. Moroi facilities the court and their schools usually posed as universities. How ironic that creatures of the night would live among beautifully landscaped gardens while servants of the light like us skulked in ugly buildings with no windows.Inside, however, everything was pristine, bright, and well-organized. A receptionist checked us in when we arrived at the main desk and buzzed us through, along with many others who arrived for the service. There were well-to-do lilies everywhere. For many, this was a fun-filled family event, and lots of children trailed their Alchemist parents. It made me feel strange as I watched them, these kids who had been born into our profession. I wondered how theyd feel ten forms from now. Would they be unrestrained to step up to the plate? Or would they start questioning?The center had three floors aboveground and five underneath. People off the street could hardly just come wandering in, but we still took precautions by keeping the more benign offices on the main floor. As we all walked down the corridor to the auditorium, we passed Payroll, Travel, and Maintenance. All the offices had clear windows looking into them from the hall, maintaining the Alchemist ideal that we had nothing to hide.The secure offices belowground werent quite so open, however.Id been in this facility once before for a training seminar, and it had actually taken place in the auditorium we entered for the service. Despite the spiritual theme of tonights event, the room bore little resemblance to a chur ch. Someone had gone to the effort of decorating the walls with red-bowed evergreen garlands and lay pots of poinsettias on the stage. The room had a state-of-the-art audio-visual system, including a giant screen that gave a larger-than-life look at whatever was happening onstage. The auditoriums seating was so efficient that even those in the farthest corners had a pretty clear view, so I think the screen was just for emphasis.Ian and I found two seats near the middle of the auditorium. Arent you going to take off your coat? he asked hopefully.No way was I going to unleash the dress in this den of taupe and high collars. Besides, if I kept the coat on, it would just give him something to keep looking forward to. Adrian would be proud of my ability to master the opposite sex . . . and I couldnt help but wonder just how well Adrian would be able to stand up to this dress. Clearly, I was getting likewise confident with this new power.Im cold, I said, pulling the coat tighter. It wa s kind of ridiculous since the lights from the stage and high number of bodies had already made the room stifling, but I figured since it was so cold outside, I could get away with it.For someone who always seems to be so cold, you sure can warm up pretty fast.Sydney? Is that you?I froze, not from the shock of hearing my name, but from the voice that had said it. Id know that voice anywhere. Slowly, I turned away from Ian and looked up into my fathers face. He was rest in the aisle, wearing a heavy wool suit, with melted snowflakes in his graying dark blond hair.Hi, Dad, I said. Then I saw who was standing beside him. Zoe?It was all I could do not to jump up and hug her. I hadnt seen or spoken to my younger sister since that night Id been pulled out of bed and sent on my Palm Springs mission. That was the mission she believed Id stolen from her, no matter my protests. It was the mission that had driven her away from me.I eyed her now, trying to assess where we stood. She didnt wear the blatant curse she had at our last meeting, which was a good sign. Unfortunately, she didnt look all that warm and friendly either. She was cautious, studying me carefully almost warily. She did not, I noticed, have a golden lily on her cheek yet.Im perplexityd to see you here, said my father.His parting words to me had been Dont embarrass me, so I wasnt really astonished by his low expectations. Its the holidays, I said. Forcing a smile now was far more difficult than it had been with Ian. Its important to be here with the group. Do you know Ian Jansen?Ian, wide-eyed, jumped up and shook my fathers hand. Clearly, he hadnt expected a parental meeting so soon. Its a pleasure to meet you, sir.My father nodded gravely and looked back and forth between the two of us. Whatever surprise hed had at seeing me here had just been trumped by me being here with a date. Glancing at Ian, I tried to guess how hed appear to someone like my dad. Clean cut, respectful, an Alchemist. The fact that Ian tended to bore me was irrelevant. I doubted my father had ever thought much about me dating, but if so, he probably hadnt thought Id get a catch like this.Would you like to join us, sir? asked Ian. I had to give him credit hed overcome his initial shock and was now in proper suitor mode. It would be an honor.At first, I thought Ian was just laying it on thick. Then I realized meeting my father might actually very well be an honor. Jared Sage wasnt a rock star, but he did have a reputation among the Alchemists that, by their standards, was outstanding. My father seemed to like the flattery and agreed. He took a seat beside Ian.Sit by your sister, he told Zoe, nodding in my direction.Zoe obeyed and stared straight ahead. She was nervous too, I realized. Looking her over, I felt an ache from how much Id miss her. Wed inherited the same brown eyes from our father, but shed gotten Moms brown hair, which made me a little jealous. Zoe likewise looked a lot more put together than the last time Id seen her. She wore a pretty dark brown cashmere dress and didnt have a single hair out of place. Something about her appearance daunted me, and I couldnt quite put my finger on it at first. It soon hit me. She looked older. She looked like a young lady, like my peer. I supposed it was goofy of me to feel sad, since she was fifteen, but I kind of wished she could stay a little kid forever.Zoe. I kept my voice low, not that I needed to worry about the men overhearing. My dad was interrogating Ian. Ive been wanting to talk to you for so long.She nodded. I know. Mom tells me each time you call. But there was no apology for escapism my calls.Im sorry about the way we left things. I never meant to hurt you or one-up you. I thought I was doing you a favor, saving you from getting involved.Her babble out tightened, and something hard flashed in her eyes. I dont mind being involved. I want to be involved, you know. And it wouldve been great Being in the field at fifteen . I could have a stellar career. Dad would be so proud.I chose my next words very carefully so that she wouldnt take offense. Yeah, but another year with Dad will really be, um, stellar. Hes got so much experience and you want to get as much as you can, believe me. Even if you have to wait for an assignment at sixteen, youll still be ahead of the rest of us.Each word out of my mouth made me feel sick, but Zoe seemed to buy it. I wasnt bothered by her wanting to be part of the cause but it killed me that she was clearly doing it to impress our dad. I suppose. And I am learning a lot. I wish I could at least get some field experience even if its not my own post. Its all theory with Dad. Ive never even seen a Moroi.Im sure hell fix that. I didnt like encouraging this, but at least she was speaking to me.The lights dimmed, ending our conversation. Organ music filled the room, and the scent of frankincense drifted around us. Incense and resin were common components in magic, and my mi nd was instantly starting to make associations from the spell books Id painstakingly copied. Frankincense is used to heal burns. It can also be used when casting divining or purifying spells I immediately stopped that train of thought. Even if I was keeping it to myself, thinking about magic in the middle of an Alchemist church service was pretty sacrilegious. I shifted uncomfortably, wondering what all these people would think if they knew the truth about me that I practiced magic and had kissed a vampire. . . .Alchemist priests were called hierophants. They performed blessings and offered moral advice, when needed. In day-to-day affairs, they wore suits, but for this occasion, the lead hierophant wore robes that reminded me uncomfortably of the robes some of the Warriors had donned. It was yet another reminder of our shared history and maybe our shared future. Marcus had been right. This was a mystery I had to solve, regardless of where I stood on breaking the tattoo.Id attended services like this off and on passim my life and knew the Latin prayers by heart. I chanted along with the rest of the congregation and listened avidly as the hierophant reaffirmed our goals, his voice echoing through the sound system. Even though the Alchemists religion had loose connections to Christianity there was very little mention of God or Jesus or even Christmas. Most of his sermon was about how we had to help protect humanity from the temptation of following Strigoi who offered unholy immortality. That warning, at least, wasnt exaggerated.Id heard stories and even seen for myself what happened when humans decided to serve Strigoi. Those Strigoi promised to turn their servants as a reward. Those humans helped Strigoi spread their evil and became monsters themselves, no turning needed. Keeping those dark vampires hidden was for the good of weak humans who couldnt protect themselves. I paid especially close attention when the hierophant mentioned the Moroi offhandedly in hi s sermon, as a means to an end in defeating the Strigoi. He didnt exactly inspire warm and fuzzy feelings about them, but at least he wasnt calling for Moroi and dhampir destruction either.I agreed with a good part of the message, but it no longer filled me with the fire it once had. And when the hierophant started droning on and on about duty, obedience, and what was natural, I really began feeling disconnected. I almost wished there was more talk of the divine, like youd find at a normal church service. With everything going on in my life, I wouldnt have minded a connection to a high power. Sometimes, when I listened to the hierophant, I wondered if everything he was saying had just been made up by a bunch of people sitting around in the diaphragm Ages. No holy mandate required.I felt like a traitor when the service ended. Maybe Adrians joke had been right I didnt even need Marcus to break my tattoo and connection to the group. Glancing at my companions and even the other Alche mists in the room it was clear I was alone. All of them looked captivated by the sermon, devoted to the cause.I was again eerily reminded of the Warriors and their fanatical devotion. No, no, whatever else the Alchemists are guilty of, we have nothing to do with that kind of unhinged behavior. And yet . . . it was more complicated than that, I realized. The Alchemists didnt shoot first and ask questions later or make our members battle each other. We were civilized and logical, but we did have a tendency to just do what we were told. That was the similarity, one that could be dangerous.Zoe and my father walked out with Ian and me. Isnt it amazing? she asked. Hearing that . . . well, it just makes me so glad Dad decided to raise another Alchemist in the family. Its good to boost our numbers.Had that truly been his motivation? Or was it because he didnt trust me after Id helped Rose?It was infuriating that the only conversation I could have with Zoe centered around Alchemist rhetoric , but Id take it over the silence of the last few months. In my heart, I longed to talk the way we used to. I wanted it back. Even though shed warmed up a little, that old familiarity that had once existed between us was gone.I wish we had more time, I told her once our groups were ready to part in the parking lot. Theres so much I want to talk to you about.She smiled, and there was a genuineness in it that warmed me. Maybe the distance between us wasnt irreparable. Me too. Im sorry about . . . well, the way things were. I hope we get some time together soon. I . . . Ive missed you.That nearly broke me down, as did her hug. Well be together soon, I promise.Ian whom my father now seemed to regard as a future son-in-law drove me back to my hotel and couldnt stop gushing about how awesome it had been to meet Jared Sage. As for me, I could still feel where Zoe had hugged me.Ian promised hed get in touch with me in the morning about a tour of the archives. Then, weirdly, he closed his eyes and leaned forward. It took me a moment to realize that he expected a good-night kiss. Seriously? That was how he went about it? Had he ever even kissed anyone before? Even Brayden had displayed a little more passion. And, of course, neither guy measured up to Adrian.When I did nothing, Ian finally opened his eyes. I gave him another hug with the coat on and told him how prosperous I was that hed met my dad. That seemed to satisfy him.Adrian made his nightly check-in with me once I was asleep later on. Naturally, he wanted to know about my dress. He also kept trying to find out how exactly Id won Ian over and seemed amused at the few details I decided to give him. But mostly I couldnt stop talking about Zoe. Adrian soon gave up on the other topics and simply listened to me gush.She spoke to me, Adrian I paced around the reception hall, clasping my pass on in excitement. And she wasnt mad. By the end, she was happy to see me. Do you know what thats like? I mean, I know you d ont have any brothers or sisters, but to have someone you havent seen in a while welcome you back?I dont know what its like, he said quietly. But I can imagine.I was too caught up in my own joy at the time, but later, I wondered if he was talking about his incarcerated mother.Its nice to see you so happy, he added. Not that youve been miserable lately, but youve had a lot to worry about.I couldnt help but laugh at that and came to a halt. Are you saying evil witches and espionage are stressful?Nah. He walked over to me. All in a days work for us. But Im going to make my way to bed now. You seem like you can get by without me tonight.Hed visited me every night since Veronicas dream. Most of the trips were short now, but I still knew it was a lot of effort and spirit for him. Thank you. I feel like I cant say that to you enough.You dont have to say it at all, Sage. Good luck tomorrow.Right. Stealing top secret info from a extremely secure facility.Thanks, I said again. A little of my mood dimmed, but not all of it. No matter what happens, though, patching things up with Zoe makes me feel like this mission is already a success.Thats because you havent been caught. He cupped my face in his hands and leaned close. See that you arent. I dont want to have to dream visit you in prison . . . or wherever it is bad Alchemists go.Hey, at least Id have you for company, right?He gave me a rueful headshake, and the dream vanished around me.