Tuesday, January 28, 2020

Developing An Online Media Strategy Annotated Bibliography Marketing Essay

Developing An Online Media Strategy Annotated Bibliography Marketing Essay This article presents the thoughts that for business owners, having a Web site is no longer the one thing necessary for a successful online presence. Engaging customers through social and interactive features is fast becoming the new standard. These days, Internet marketing requires a coordinated, branded, cohesive approach. Internet marketing efforts yield little value if you cannot measure the results. The author discusses the various ways to find where a firms traffic is coming from, and more importantly, on which page it goes away. Sometimes people want to do business with you, but leave your Web site because they are confused. Determining your biggest exit pages allows you to refine their content until more people are converting to suspects, prospects and finally customers. Continue to work on improving your Web site by implementing a cohesive Web strategy and taking advantage of many elements to reach potential customers in whatever part of the Web they use. The costs are small and the profits large (Altschuler, 2009). This article was helpful by giving advice on how to choose web-based strategies to grow a business in size and reputation. Andrewes, J. (2006). Developing an online press office for Cardiff Council: Principles of excellence. Journal of Communication Management 10(2), 156-173. Retrieved from Emerald database. This article discusses the development of an online press office at Cardiff Council in the United Kingdom. It presents an analysis of key issues of public relations theory as they apply to the provision of an online press office. This is supported by a survey of journalists who have used Cardiffs media service and enhanced by assessment of examples of existing best practice across local authorities in the UK. Andrewes states that there has been a considerable volume of work published on general internet usability and principles for communications, but there is little guidance for Public Relations practitioners on how to apply communications principles and best practice specifically to electronic communication with the media and none at all for local government. Indeed general media relations guidance for local government does not yet even take account of the advent and impact of the internet, with most recent publications dating back ten years or more (Andrewes, 2006). This article w as helpful in discussing the need for PR practitioners to have a framework for the creation of an online media service based on public relation practices. Barson, D. (2009). Leveraging Social Media to Grow Your Beauty Brand. Global Cosmetic Industry, 177(10), 22-23. Retrieved from Business Source Complete database. This article discusses the need for a good social media plan. Such a plan can drive sales and build consumer relationships. The author believes that when creating the plan certain rules must be followed, not the least of which is maintaining brand image. Companies worldwide as well as those within the United States are utilizing social media to present their firms to an ever-growing connected world. Whether creating business pages on Facebook or sending out promos in 140 characters or less on Twitter, marketers are turning to the Web to both drive sales and build consumer interaction for long-term success. As the world of technology changes, businesses must adjust with the times and online media is a fascinating and effective tool for building a brand (Barson, 2009). Berman, S. J., Abraham, S., Battino, B., Shipnuck, L., and Neus, A., (2007). New business models for the new media world. Strategy Leadership 35(4), 23-30. Retrieved from Emerald database. This article attempts to examine the conflict between new and traditional media and explore future industry competitive scenarios. Four primary business models are identified traditional media, walled communities, content hyper-syndication and new platform aggregation. The research also found evidence of another developing conflict that it calls the media divide. The new media world has arrived. Its a wild frontier market where youthful demographics are the prize and tech-savvy adventurists lead the way. In this digital gold rush, Internet successes such as YouTube and MySpace, and their associated audience growth rates, are the envy of broadcast TV and the rest of the entertainment establishment (Berman, Abraham, Battino, Shipnuck, Neus, 2007). To examine the clash between new and traditional media and explore future industry scenarios, the authors conducted a study that included interviews with leaders of media companies and an in-depth analysis of the factors that are shaping th e industry outlook. This article was helpful in highlighting two polar-opposite trends that mark the conflict between new and old media. Bohi, H., (2010, January). To Tweet, or Not to Tweet? That is the question. Alaska Business Monthly 26(1), 80-81. Retrieved from Business Source Complete database. This article discusses the popularity of social media marketing and networking and the mania surrounding the top media channels Twitter, Facebook, MySpace, LinkedIn, YouTube, Flickr, blogs and other online communities. On Facebook alone, there are more than 300 million active users who are 35 or older and 50 percent of these log on daily. More than 8 billion minutes are spent on Facebook every day, worldwide. Twitterholics have more than 18 million followers and that number is expected to hit 26 million over the next year (Bohi, 2010). Social media marketing includes using social networks, online communities, blogs or any other collaborative Internet form of media for marketing, sales, public relations and customer service. Although well-written, informative, and entertaining content remains critical, the difference between this method and older marketing tactics is social media is about engaging the customer, not simply giving them a sales pitch. This article provides insight into the many choices of social media marketing. Brown, L., Gallagher, S.M., and Brown, C. (2008). How CEOs can promote a strong market culture. Strategy Leadership 36(5), 28-33. Retrieved from Emerald database. This article presents recommendations for executive priorities, focusing on changes in the realm of culture. The authors believe that corporate culture, if correctly aligned with the external environment, is the key to long-term organizational success. The paper aims to explain how CEOs can take an abstract concept like culture, visualize it, and take steps to harness its power to create enduring competitive advantage in the marketplace. The authors hypothesize that a strong market culture exhibits high ratings on six dimensions of corporate beliefs and behaviors related to: customer insight, competitor awareness, collaborative approach, criteria for decisions, CEO leadership, and a deep organizational commitment and contribution of all functions to creation of superior value for customers. A market culture is defined by: (1) how the overarching culture of a business focuses attention on markets, (2) the skills a business uses to create value for customers, and (3) the level of belie f that the ultimate purpose of the business is to create superior customer value, profitably (Brown, Gallagher, Brown, 2008). This article was helpful in discussing specific steps for leaders to take to foster growth in each dimension. Fjeld, K. and Molesworth, M. (2006). PR practitioners experiences of, and attitudes towards, the internets contribution to external crisis communication. Corporate Communications: An International Journal 11(4), 391-405. Retrieved from Emerald database. This paper aims to promote better understanding of how the internet is used as part of crisis communication. Today the web plays a significant role in disseminating information and that online communication allows organizations to achieve multi-level communication. The paper reports on data collected from in-depth interviews with ten senior Public Relation practitioners in order to understand their experiences and attitudes. The article identifies a range of attitudes of executives, formed by recent experience. Although generally preferred, two-way communication with stakeholders is not always practical. This, along with their preference for existing approaches, and ignorance about the internet formed their views about online communication. The result was that some regarded the internet as inferior in terms of its ability to achieve traditional tasks and because of its potential for undesirable dialogue. When the web was acknowledged as useful it tended to be considered as supplement ary to existing approaches. There was little recognition of the need for online dialogue (Fjeld Molesworth, 2006). This paper was helpful in articulating a range of positive and negative attitudes towards the use of the internet for crisis communication, based on the experiences of senior PR practitioners. Getting the social media on your side: Marketing specialists must embrace the world of technology. (2010). Strategic Direction 26(2), 6-7. Retrieved from Business Source Complete database. This article discusses the immediacy of the Internet and the effect it can have on a company and its relationship and reputation with its various publics. The authors use this article to explain that businesses ignore the power social media can exert at their peril, and must learn how to embrace them positively. The social media encompass an exceptionally wide path, combining everything from social networking sites such as MySpace and Facebook to business networking sites, Podcasts, news delivery sites and collaborative websites such as Wikipedia. They offer a huge challenge to companies which have been used for so long to coordinating and controlling their promotional efforts through such established, traditional channels as public relations, advertising, personal selling and direct marketing. Social media have brought into the mix a wide range of online, word-of-mouth forums which now play a massive part in influencing consumer behavior (Getting Social Media, 2010). This article wa s helpful in discussing how managers have lost control over the way information reaches the public while simultaneously giving ways traditional communication can be used to develop new strategies. Gurau, C. (2008). Integrated online marketing communication: implementation and management. Journal of Communication Management 12(2), 169-184. Retrieved from Emerald database. This article discusses the particularities of integrated marketing communication (IMC) in the online environment. Both secondary and primary knowledge are examined in order to identify the various meanings of the integrated online marketing communication, the opportunities and challenges raised by online communication, and the structure of an effective coordinated online marketing communication system. The author attempts to investigate the manners of implementing IMC in an online environment. Based on an analysis of the specific characteristics of the online environment and audiences, and on information collected through face-to-face interviews with managers of United Kingdom consumer retail firms, the meanings of the integrated marketing communication in the online environment, as well as the challenges and the opportunities created by the internet for the implementation of an online IMC process, are identified and discussed. The article was informative in that given todays technol ogical advances, using them is not always the first choice in form of communication of todays managers. Halepete, J., and Park, J. (2006). Competitive e-tailing strategies for fair trade organizations: Benchmarking against successful commercial organizations. Journal of Fashion Marketing and Management 10(4), 491-507. Retrieved from Business Source Complete database. The purpose of this article is to provide competitive internet retailing strategies for fair trade organizations using a benchmarking approach. It provides valuable managerial implications for fair trade organizations focusing on web site operations. Information availability and strategic web site management can attract customers to make purchases on fair trade web sites and, in turn, enable organizations to sustain and grow in the competitive marketplace. This study was designed to provide competitive e-tailing strategies using a benchmarking approach. The benchmarking will guide firms to compare and measure their performance with outstanding performers, achieve the best business outcomes, and in turn, advantage producers and artisans in developing countries (Halepete Park, 2006). The authors integrated classifications of information load on the web site that can influence customer shopping experiences and purchase decisions: company information, product information, distribution c hannels, customer service, and web site quality. This article was helpful in discussing benchmarking as a technique through which businesses constantly compare and measure their performances with outstanding performers and provides competitive advantages to businesses. Harridge-March, S. (2004). Electronic marketing, the new kid on the block. Marketing Intelligence Planning 22(3), 297-309. Retrieved from Business Source Complete database. This article considers electronic marketing, using the familiar framework of the seven Ps of marketing product, price, promotion, place, process, physical evidence, and people in an attempt to evaluate electronic marketing and its potential contribution to marketing in general. The author concludes that while not every marketer embraces the use of the Internet, this newcomer has become an accepted part of marketing activity. The article concludes that while electronic marketing does not yet have the potential to replace traditional marketing efforts, it should be seen as a valuable and complementary tool, and managers should embrace new technology in order to create greater value for customers. Issues such as branding, public relations, direct marketing, advertising, personal selling and information seeking are considered in an attempt to evaluate electronic marketing and its potential contribution to the marketing practice. The author states that in the United Kingdom by 2001, ove r a third of adults in Great Britain who accessed the Internet also purchased goods or services through it, meaning, of course, that two-thirds do not shop online, and some writers cite uncertainty and/or risk as preventing consumers from doing so. Some companies have been criticized for apparently thinking that all Internet shoppers are the same, instead of realizing that there are many reasons why a customer may visit a site. This results, particularly, in a lack of commitment for the purchase of high-involvement goods in this way (Harridge-March, 2004). This article was helpful in recognizing that for every potential customer trusting the provider sufficiently to enter into a transaction is paramount, and communicating trustworthiness remains a challenge Hearn, G., Foth, M., and Gray, H. (2009). Applications and implementations of new media in corporate communications: An action research approach. Corporate Communications: An International Journal 14(1), 49-61. Retrieved from Business Source Complete database. This article is about advances in new media and the web technology that is making it easier for organizations and their employees, suppliers, customers and stakeholders to participate in the creation and management of content. New media and Web services can be employed to work in conjunction with conventional communication tools such as phone, fax and corporate intranets. This approach enables organizations to maintain and strengthen existing stakeholder relationships, but also reach out and build relationships with new stakeholders who were previously inaccessible or invisible. The authors review and explore the uses of new media in organizations. We find that this dynamic area has only been the subject of a few rigorous studies so far that map out current uses of new media. Since new media are deployed in such a dynamic fashion, we argue that organizations are best to adopt an experimental customer-centered approach at this stage of the evolution of the technology both in terms of use and implementation. It also fosters the participation and engagement of external stakeholders (Hearn Gray, 2009). This article was useful in understanding how a corporate communication strategy can leverage current trends. Jensen, M. B., (2008). Online marketing communication potential: Priorities in Danish firms and advertising agencies. European Journal of Marketing 42(3/4), 502-525. Retrieved from Business Source Complete database. This article discusses where resources should be directed to utilize online marketing communication (OMC) further, including the identification of the diversity of OMC adoption, prioritization and future potential. The internet has had a tremendous impact on many processes in companies. Marketing is probably one of the areas most affected due to the possibilities offered in online communications. Thus, OMC has grown to be an important part of a companys promotional mix. Whereas OMC in its early days was limited to mainly the implementation of corporate websites, greater possibilities exist today. OMC today consists of multiple activities (Jensen, 2008). This article was helpful in giving details on the diversification of the implementation of online marketing communication, the future potential, and where resources should be directed to utilize OMC further. Kane, G.C., Fichman, R. G., Gallaugher, J., Glaser, J. (2009, November). Community relations. Harvard Business Review 87(11), 45-50. Retrieved from Business Source Complete database. This article describes the changes wrought by social media platforms and shows how organizations can make the most of new media frontiers. With social media, society has moved beyond the era of stand-alone, static web pages. Todays communities actively post and vet information. Users increasingly treat these venues as their first stop in gathering data and forming an opinion. A recent Pew study found that nearly 40% of Americans say they have doubted a medical professionals opinion or diagnosis because it conflicted with information theyd found online. If users put that much faith in what they learn on the internet, what will they be willing to believe if members of a social media forum start trashing your organization? And are you prepared to handle it when it happens? (Kane, Gallaugher, Glaser, 2009). This article was helpful in informing that a companys social media team must develop policies and strategies for managing online communities, both to abate negative consequences and to foster positive relations. Karagozoglu, N. and Lindell, M. (2004). Electronic commerce strategy, operations, and performance in small and medium-sized enterprises. Journal of Small Business and Enterprise Development 11(3), 290-301. Retrieved from Business Source Complete database. This article explores the electronic commerce involvement of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in terms of the strategic, operational, and performance aspects. SMEs tend to pursue e-commerce strategies associated with customer base expansion and customer service consistent with their bricks-and-mortar competitive strategies and build e-commerce operations consistent with their e-commerce strategies. These e-commerce strategies also contribute to the SMEs sales growth and profitability. Adoption of e-commerce has evolved from rudimentary simple Web site construction applications to more sophisticated customer service and personalization models (Reynolds, 2000). Competitive advantage and profit considerations in the adoption of e-commerce are crucial for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in that they have limited financial slack to experiment with new approaches and limited cushion for failure. A plethora of failure by the pure dot-com companies with unproven business m odels have constituted a caveat for the bricks-and-mortar companies to exercise due diligence in venturing into e-commerce. This article was helpful in explaining the effects of e-commerce on brick-and-mortar businesses. Making Your E-voice Heard. (2008). Wearables Business, 12(3), 28. Retrieved from Business Source Complete database. This article discusses that companies in nearly every market, from book publishing to bridal wear, are jumping on the YouTube and blogging bandwagons and taking advantage of the Internets ability to spread information quickly through channels such as e-mail and social networking. Whether a highly produced, TV-quality Webcast or something shot with a handheld camera, video can make a big splash online. Some businesses are putting such content on their Web sites and making it available on YouTube or social networking sites like MySpace, with remarkable success (Making Your, 2008). This article was helpful in explaining how viral-marketing can be used to spread information in short time with little effort. Martinsons, M.G. (2006). Strategic management lessons from e-commerce. Handbook of Business Strategy 7(1), 337-340. Retrieved from Business Source Complete database. This article explains the importance of a sound business idea, good market knowledge, long-term planning, external relationships, and balanced business development. The emergence of a new technology typically brings both opportunities and risks. With the emergence of the internet, both the opportunities and the risks have been enormous for entrepreneurs, business managers, investors, consultants, and others. Hundreds of thousands of new enterprises have been started all over the world with the hope of capitalizing on the opportunities that has emerged from the commercialization of the internet (Martinsons, 2006). This article was useful in summarizing the first internet-driven ventures, and highlighting important lessons for strategic management. Palmer, A. and Koenig-Lewis, N. (2009). An experiential, social network-based approach to direct marketing. Direct Marketing: An International Journal 3(3), 162-176. Retrieved from Business Source Complete database. This article discusses the direct marketing challenges and opportunities associated with the emergence of social network media. Companies need to address target audiences both directly and also indirectly through social media. The purpose of this article was to provide a review of the changing media landscape of direct marketing, and proposes a model of direct and indirect targeting of buyers. While many in the marketing community are scratching their heads wondering how the recent generation of web-based social media will generate profits, this paper takes the perspective of direct marketing by asking why and how a message sent by a company may be more effective if it is targeted at individuals through social network media. In particular, the notion is explored that users experience of using social media will predispose them to look more favorably upon a company sponsored message when it is embedded in social media, rather than targeted directly at the individual. The challenge for direct marketing is how to achieve a position at the center that combines the seller, the buyer and the community (Palmer Koenig-Lewis, 2009). This article was useful in explaining how the experience of someone using a social network site can be mutually beneficial to both the buyer and seller. Rowley, J. (2004). Just another channel? Marketing communications in e-business. Marketing Intelligence Planning 22(1), 24-41. Retrieved from Business Source Complete database. This article discusses the role the Internet plays as both a marketing and communications channel. Some practitioners and academics have dismissed the Internet and the current level of business interest in the Internet as hype, arguing that the Internet does not offer any new business models, or new opportunities for creating customer value. This position denies the central significance of relationships in business activity. Relationships are important at both individual and organizational level. Relationships within the value chain both within organizations and between organizations are crucial to the creation of competitive advantage and the generation of unique propositions regarding customer value (Rowley, 2004). This article was helpful in exploring the establishment and maintenance of relationships between consumers and companies as being the heart of customer attraction and retention. Rowley, J. (2004). Online branding. Online Information Review28(2), 131-138. Retrieved from Business Source Complete database. The role of brands and branding in the new economy that is characterized by digitization and globalization are attracting considerable attention. Taking the organizational perspective the challenges for branding in online environments relate to: the message capacity of Web pages, the need to integrate branding and marketing communications across different channels, the trend towards organizational value propositions, brands as search keys, and the opportunity to link and develop brand positions, globalization, and the increased engagement of the public sector with branding. Online branding is discussed in nearly every book on e-marketing or e-business. In an electronic shopping environment where physical interaction is reduced and product qualities and benefits must be distilled and captured in a way that can be communicated over the wires, online branding may be increasingly important. Others argue that with the wealth of information on the Web at their fingertips, coupled with inte lligent agents and search engines to help them locate the information, products and services that they need users will no longer need to rely on the shorthand of brand. Instead they will gather detailed information on products and services and make their own judgments on the suitability of a product making brands superfluous (Rowley, 2004). This article was helpful in explaining some of the unique aspects of online branding. Srivastava, M., Sharma, M. (2008). The Role of Emotional Appeals in Internet Advertising: A Study of the Contributing Factors Involved. ICFAI Journal of Management Research, 7(9), 27-36. Retrieved from Business Source Complete database. This article discusses online media and how its increasing usage rate has changed the marketers world. Internet advertising has captured the imagination of marketers, who see in it an enormous potential to raise the profile of their brands. Companies are moving online across the spectrum of marketing activities, from building awareness to after-sales service. In the light of the widespread use of the Internet, the marketers and advertisers target their consumers by developing an emotional connection. Today, most of the Internet advertisements are created on the basis of emotional integration appeals. The evolution of online media and its increasing usage rate have changed the marketers world. The spread of wired Internet networks has opened new vistas for advertisers to earn more revenue by exploring its vast and growing reach. Adoption of Internet advertising has become a key component of marketing strategy. Internet advertising provides a popular avenue to interact and communicate with the customers (Srivastava Sharma, 2008). This article was helpful in providing insight into the factors responsible for developing emotional appeal, and ways in which Internet advertising can contribute to the formation of emotional bonding between consumer and company. Tench, R., Bowd, R., and Jones, B. (2007). Perceptions and perspectives: corporate social responsibility and the media. Journal of Communication Management 11(4). 348-370. Retrieved from Business Source Complete database. This article discusses the importance of developing understanding of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and the Media. Reports on differing media interpretations, perceptions and perspectives of CSR and how they are prone to shift and change in part depending on the perceived definition and issues are discussed. Public Relations practitioners and policy makers should find how the media interprets and understands CSR of interest. Existing concepts and frameworks have the potential to be further developed and informed by these practice-based findings. Real-world application has the potential to shape, guide and inform theoretical constructs. Increasing media interest in CSR and the primary data while forming frameworks also furthers understanding of the concept from academic, business practitioner and stakeholders perspectives (Tench, Bowd, Jones, 2007). Further details on other strategies are offered. Vonder Haar, S. (2008). Its all about integration. Streaming Media, 5(1), 31-38. Retrieved from Business Source Complete database. This article discusses the growing intersection of web-conferencing and videoconferencing technologies illustrating the increasingly important role that online multimedia is playing in the development of integrated communications strategies for businesses. Among companies that have deployed online audio and video technology, the two most frequently deployed applications integrating multimedia are executive presentations and employee training. Historically online multimedia has uniquely addressed the communications challenges that large companies face in distributing information to far-flung networks of employees. Web audio and video provide a forum for large company leaders to communicate directly with a global workforce on a cost-effective basis. As a result, todays enterprise multimedia sector is largely tuned to address the internal communications needs of these large corporate customers who have illustrated the most willingness to invest in online audio and video capabilities (Vo nder Haar, 2008). This article was helpful in explaining that not only is the process of communication considered essential but, in this case, the content of the communications is vital as well. Vrasidas, C. and Zembylas, M. (2004). Online professional development: Lessons from the field. Education Training 46(6/7), 326-334. Retrieved from Business Source Complete database. This article discusses the lessons learned from applying a framework for the professional development of teachers, drawing on three interrelated theoretical areas: constructivism situated and distributed cognition, and communities of practice. Online environments are rapidly expanding as a venue for professional development in education, business, and industry. One of the more pressing questions faced by the teaching profession today is whether this idealized vision of professional development can be realized online. The demands of work and family life for teachers, many of whom are women, underline the need for professional development activities that can be delivered anytime, anywhere. Distance education has been predominantly based on approaches which emphasized a linear and objectivist approach to learning and teaching. Given that technology increases the opportunities for interaction among tutors, learners, content and technological tools, it is important to design relevant lear ning environments for rich interaction in the context of e-learning (Vrasidas Zembylas, 2004). This article was helpful in analyzing the need in preparing instructors to teach online classes and what that involves. Wilenius, M. and Malmelin, N. (2009). Towards sustainably managed media organizations: reflections on the future of responsible business in media industry. Business Strategy Series 10(3), 129-138. Retrieved from Emerald database. This article offers insight into the future of responsible business in the media industry. The focus of analysis is on the views and opinions of leading CEOs in media companies in about responsible business and the social and organ

Monday, January 20, 2020

Bubonic Plague Essay examples -- Disease/Disorders

In the early 1300's, an outbreak of a deadly disease commonly known as the "bubonic plague" occurred in China. The precious lives of these people were being taken with no warning at all. It is said that the victims "would eat lunch with their friends, and dinner with their ancestors in paradise." (Boccaccio, 2011) Due to the trading that was going on between countries at that time, this devastating disease eventually spread to Asia and Europe. The tragic loss of lives was a mystery to the people of that period. They lived in fear from year to year, because they never knew when this mass murderer would hit next. Clearly even the children had to find unique ways of coping with the tragic events occurring; as the well-known nursery rhyme "Ring Around the Rosie" is actually a reference to the 1300's bubonic plague with its description of the round rosy-red rashes, pockets filled with scented herbs, and the cremated ashes of the dead. (NA, Ring Around the Rosy Rhyme) It was not until a round 1894, that Alexander Yersin discovered the bacteria responsible for this devastating disease. The mass murderer turned out to be a small harmless looking microbe by the name of Yersinia pestis. It is believed today that Yersinia pestis is a microbe that actually originates from natural bacteria living in the soil, that simply went pathogenic. This virulent, gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium can grow with or without oxygen. It is able to survive for several months in cool, moist conditions. (Schoenstadt, 2008) It is a zoonotic microbe most commonly found in oriental rat fleas. In most cases these tiny, havoc-wreaking bacterium actually gather together and block the proventriculus in the flea, which prevents it from digesting it's food. This in... ...ague-in-2011-appears-in-new-mexico/ Orent, W. (2001, November 1). Will the Black Death Return? Retrieved April 18, 2012, from Discover Magazine: http://discovermagazine.com/2001/nov/featblack Plague. (2005, February). Retrieved April 12, 2012, from World Health Organization: http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs267/en/ Schoenstadt, A. (2008, October 28). Yersinia pestis. Retrieved March 26, 2012, from eMedTV: http://plague.emedtv.com/yersinia-pestis/yersinia-pestis.html TheMedievalNun. (2012). The Black Death. Retrieved March 26, 2012, from Squidoo: http://www.squidoo.com/the_black_death Wilkins, A. (2011, August 30). The bacterium responsible for the Black Death was once a mild stomach bug. Retrieved April 17, 2012, from i09 We Come From the Future: http://io9.com/5835859/the-bacterium-responsible-for-the-black-death-was-once-a-mild- stomach-bug Bubonic Plague Essay examples -- Disease/Disorders In the early 1300's, an outbreak of a deadly disease commonly known as the "bubonic plague" occurred in China. The precious lives of these people were being taken with no warning at all. It is said that the victims "would eat lunch with their friends, and dinner with their ancestors in paradise." (Boccaccio, 2011) Due to the trading that was going on between countries at that time, this devastating disease eventually spread to Asia and Europe. The tragic loss of lives was a mystery to the people of that period. They lived in fear from year to year, because they never knew when this mass murderer would hit next. Clearly even the children had to find unique ways of coping with the tragic events occurring; as the well-known nursery rhyme "Ring Around the Rosie" is actually a reference to the 1300's bubonic plague with its description of the round rosy-red rashes, pockets filled with scented herbs, and the cremated ashes of the dead. (NA, Ring Around the Rosy Rhyme) It was not until a round 1894, that Alexander Yersin discovered the bacteria responsible for this devastating disease. The mass murderer turned out to be a small harmless looking microbe by the name of Yersinia pestis. It is believed today that Yersinia pestis is a microbe that actually originates from natural bacteria living in the soil, that simply went pathogenic. This virulent, gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium can grow with or without oxygen. It is able to survive for several months in cool, moist conditions. (Schoenstadt, 2008) It is a zoonotic microbe most commonly found in oriental rat fleas. In most cases these tiny, havoc-wreaking bacterium actually gather together and block the proventriculus in the flea, which prevents it from digesting it's food. This in... ...ague-in-2011-appears-in-new-mexico/ Orent, W. (2001, November 1). Will the Black Death Return? Retrieved April 18, 2012, from Discover Magazine: http://discovermagazine.com/2001/nov/featblack Plague. (2005, February). Retrieved April 12, 2012, from World Health Organization: http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs267/en/ Schoenstadt, A. (2008, October 28). Yersinia pestis. Retrieved March 26, 2012, from eMedTV: http://plague.emedtv.com/yersinia-pestis/yersinia-pestis.html TheMedievalNun. (2012). The Black Death. Retrieved March 26, 2012, from Squidoo: http://www.squidoo.com/the_black_death Wilkins, A. (2011, August 30). The bacterium responsible for the Black Death was once a mild stomach bug. Retrieved April 17, 2012, from i09 We Come From the Future: http://io9.com/5835859/the-bacterium-responsible-for-the-black-death-was-once-a-mild- stomach-bug

Sunday, January 12, 2020

Motivations to become police officers Essay

An individual’s motivational reason for wanting to become a police officer does not really differ from person to person. According to a survey given to male and female officers asking what drove them towards a career in law enforcement, they all had similar responses. The majority of the answers these officers gave were the ability to help people, fight crime, have and exciting job, and job security. Contrary to belief, officers have little or no interest in joining just to cause harm or use excessive force on citizens. (Walker, 2011, Pg 128) One of the top reasons an individual wants to become a police officer is the high level of job security the job offers. Officers are rarely fired from their jobs because of the civil service rules and union contracts. If an officer faces termination from unjust reasons they are given the opportunity to appeal the situation and possibly save their job. Perform the Internet Exercise on page 184. Answer the questions posed. Out of the options given, I chose to look up NLPOA and IAWP. The NLPOA stands for National Latino Peace Officers Association. They represent Latin American officers in the police force. They work to promote equality and professionalism in law enforcement. The NLPOA works closely with communities to prove citizenship programs, mentor programs, elementary school reading programs and training programs for people interested in careers in law enforcement. IAWP stands for International Association of Women Police. They represent women in law enforcement. Their mission is to strengthen, unite and raise the profile of women in criminal justice. They vision women’s lives to be free from discrimination, that they are valued for their contribution, and treated with respect and dignity. They work towards embracing diversity and improving women’s ability to excel in the criminal justice field. Describe the relationship between a police officer’s attitudes and behaviors. The relationship between a police officer’s attitude and their behavior differs greatly. It is believed that officers who make raciest statements or any prejudice remarks will automatically treat those people different and use excessive force. This is not the case. Officers’ actions are strictly observed, and the way an officer acts during an arrest can make or break his case against the individual. If an officer uses force when no force was needed a few things will most likely happen. The case itself can be thrown out due to improper actions and lack of evidence, and the citizen in question could press charges on the officer and department. This adds negative attention to the officer and department, often leading to the officer being fired.

Saturday, January 4, 2020

Sociological Research On Social And Class Differences

Various statistical techniques are used in sociological research in order to study the social world. These may include measures to describe data dispersion, as well as analytical methods such as latent class analysis. Each technique can provide distinct approaches to answering a research question, as they may emphasize specific factors or lead to different ways to structure results. Consequently, it becomes particularly important to consider one’s choice of measures and methods, as depending on the ones used, both the conclusion itself and interpretations of it may be affected, along with wider understandings of social reality. To begin, quantitative social research will often employ statistical measures to determine the central tendency of a given dataset. These measures, including mean, median, and mode, are used to calculate typical values of the center of a probability distribution. Since they are focused on ‘average’ values, measures of central tendency are u seful tools in understanding the typical situations or experiences of social groups. This makes them especially helpful in understanding social inequality and class differences because they facilitate comparison of data for multiple groups. For instance, to determine levels of economic inequality in relation to gender, one could calculate the mean incomes of males and females in a given city and compare them. However, it is crucial to consider the effects of these different measures of central tendency, as theShow MoreRelatedThrough Sociology Classes In Two Years At Willamette, There1255 Words   |  6 Pagesthe social world. I’m from different country, and I hadn’t learned sociology much before, so these improvements are significantly valuable. Especially compared to my country, the way and the number of people who think about social problems are different, which gave me more opportunities and circumstance to study sociology critically. I also gained sociological kno wledge that I can apply to problems in Japan, and developed skills to find and analyze social issue in Japan. In Navigating Social WorldsRead MoreConsequences of Inequality and the Ways in Which are Reproduced628 Words   |  3 PagesInequality focuses upon the way that resources are distributed across the whole society. In this distribution there are significant differences for children who come from varying social backgrounds. The study of such differences or inequalities has become one of the main concerns of sociological research in education. Sociologists have also paid attention to the consequences of inequality, and the ways in which inequalities are reproduced and transmitted from generation to generation. The mostRead MoreImmigration Perpectives in US1473 Words   |  6 Pagesmigrationpolicy.org/article/frequently-requested-statistics-immigrants-and-immigration-united-states-1) Each immigrant from around the world brings with them culture, lifestyle and religious differences that may seem strange or odd when compared to our current cultures. The ability to understand each of those cultural differences is a necessary learning tool that will allow us to move beyond boundaries of oppression, prejudice, hatred and conflict. We can also look at younger generations trying to make a placeRead MorePsychological Perspectives On Studying Juvenile Delinquency And Disorder Behavior1642 Words   |  7 PagesThis essay will compare and contrast some psychological and sociological approaches to studying juvenile delinquency and disorder behaviour. The question is what makes people behave disorderly. Youth disorderly behaviours are studied using different approaches including psychological and sociological approaches. Both psychological and sociological approaches to studying juvenile delinquency are necessary. This essay starts with outlining and defining disorderly behaviour and juvenile delinquencyRead MoreSociological And Common Sense Understanding1341 Words   |  6 PagesIntroduction to Sociology Throughout this essay, I will explain the distinction between sociological and common sense understanding, highlight the differences between sociology and other social sciences, and evaluate two sociological perspectives – Marxism and feminism. Sociology is the scientific study of human society. It examines the development of social structures, and the interaction between these structures and human behaviour. Sociologists aim to provide tools of understanding the processRead MoreThe Sociological World : Functionalism, Conflict Theory, And Symbolic Interactionism978 Words   |  4 Pagesal., 2015, p. 6). Sociologists use sociological imagination, a term created by C. Wright Mills, to describe cultures by acknowledging their own life experiences and assigning that to the circumstances around them (Mills, 1959). There are three main theoretical perspectives in the sociological world: functionalism, conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism. Functionalist â€Å"see society as a structure of interrelated parts designed to meet the biological and social needs of the individuals in that society†Read MoreA Brief Note On Sociology And Sociology Class1524 Words   |  7 Pagesfound some similarities and differences on the ir views of what sociology is. I interviewed two females and three males. The ages from the interviewee’s ranged from 19 to 56. All of my respondent’s in this research were white. The five respondents had a different socioeconomic status. One of the respondents is still in school, and does not work at the moment, so I listed her as a low socioeconomic class. I interviewed both of my parents, and they are at a middle class standing. Also, I interviewedRead MoreThe Sociological Perspective Or Imagination, Cite Its Components, And Explain How They Were Defined By C.974 Words   |  4 Pages1- Define the sociological perspective or imagination, cite its components, and explain how they were defined by C. Wright Mills. The sociological Taboo (or imagination) is defined as a way of thinking that help us use external information and experience to form theories about the social pattern around us. We collect data and from that information, we make judgments and predictions. These require going beyond one’s point of view. People s life and experiences are different. Therefore, it is importantRead MoreDurkheim s Influence On Sociology1240 Words   |  5 Pagesthe three founders of the social sciences. Emile Durkheim, was a French sociologist. His theories and writings helped establish the foundations of modern sociology. Durkheim disagreed with most social theorists of the late 1800 s because they thought that individual psychology was the basis of sociology. Durkheim regarded sociology as the study of the society that surrounds and influences the individual. Durkheim explained his theories in his book The Rules of Sociological Method (1895). He saysRead MoreSociological Imagination1059 Words   |  5 PagesThroughout this essay the sociological imagination is used to analyse the historical, cultural and structural reasons for drug use and abuse. Within this parameter the sociological imagination is applied, using studies research conducted in the United Kingdom, Australia, Russia and the United States. The sociological imagination was defined by Charles Write Mills as a ‘quality of mind’. (Mills quoted by Germov, Poole 2007: 4 ) It is stimulated by an awareness to v iew the social world by looking at how

Thursday, December 26, 2019

Marijuan What Is It - 2233 Words

Marijuana: What is it? Cannabis, although more commonly known as marijuana, is a preparation of the plant cannabis. Marijuana is used for both a psychoactive affect as well as a medical resource. Typically, marijuana is grown in tropical environments. Cannabis can come in three forms which are marijuana, hashish, and hash oils; each form of the cannabis plant is used and consumed in numerous ways and processes various levels of potency (Narconcon, 2010). However, marijuana is the most commonly used form of the cannabis plant and it also is the least potent of the three forms. Marijuana is more commonly consumed by smoking; yet marijuana can also be made into edible substances such as brownies, cookies, and lollipops. The various†¦show more content†¦However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), has not recognized nor approved unprocessed marijuana as a medicine (NIH, 2014). While, scientific studies of marijuana has led the creation of two FDA approved medications. Th e current studies has also lead to the development of drugs eliminating and or minimizing the â€Å"high† effect of the drug leaving the therapeutic benefits for its users (NIH, 2014). Leaving the widely Americans to considered intensely whether or not marijuana should be legalized intensely or just for medical purposes; even leaving Americans to consider not legalizing the drug at all. History of Marijuana Marijuana has become a widely discussed topic within our society today. History has shown marijuana was and currently still looked down upon by society; yet there has been serious thought about the legalization oqf marijuana today. In 1545, marijuana was brought to American by the Spanish although it was not introduced until 1611 (Narconcon, 2010). During this period marijuana become a major commercial crop as was tobacco; marijuana was seen as a source of fiber to the settlers of Jamestown. Although, by 1890 marijuana had been replaced as a major cash crop by the production and distribution of cotton; marijuana was also used in medicines during 1890. (Narconcon, 2010). However it was only in a small percentage of medicines used during that time.

Wednesday, December 18, 2019

Ethics Paper - 1177 Words

Ethics Paper Week 1 Assignment Rheana Willis 01/08/2012 Dilemma Choice 2: A married couple, both addicted to drugs, are unable to care for their infant daughter. She is taken from them by court order and placed in a foster home. The years pass. She comes to regard her foster parents as her real parents. They love her as they would their own daughter. When the child is 9 years old, the natural parents, rehabilitated from drugs, begin court action to regain custody. The case is decided in their favor. The child is returned to them, against her will. Does ethics support the law in this case? Discuss. Ethics, also known as moral philosophy, is a branch of philosophy that involves systematizing, defending, and recommending concepts of†¦show more content†¦Hence, normative ethics is sometimes said to be prescriptive, rather than descriptive. Using this method of choice to solve this dilemma would mean that both the foster parents and the rehabilitated parents would have to come up with an agreement in which the child is seeing both her real parents and her foster parents until she is comfortable to move in with her real parents permanently. That would mean that both parents would have to set aside their differences for the sake of the child and work on having unity together. Applied ethics is, in the words of Brenda Almond, co-founder of the Society for Applied Philosophy, the philosophical examination, from a moral standpoint, of particular issues in private and public life that are matters of moral judgment. It is thus a term used to describe attempts to use philosophical methods to identify the morally correct course of action in various fields of human life. Applied ethics is distinguished from normative ethics, which concerns what people should believe to be right and wrong, and from meta-ethics, which concerns the nature of moral statements. Morally in this situation when using applied ethics, you solve the dilemma by act-utilitarianism. If raising their child on their own without involving the foster parents produces greater benefit than disbenefit, then, according to act-utilitarianism, it would be morally acceptable to do so, even if the child has been raised by them the first nine years of her life.Show MoreRelatedKardell Paper Company Ethics Case1457 Words   |  6 PagesBackground The Kardell paper mill was established at the turn of the century on the Cherokee River in southeastern Ontario by the Kardell family. By 1985, the Kardell Paper Co. had outgrown its original mill and had encompassed several facilities in different locations, generating total revenues of $1.7 billion per year. The original mill continued to function and was the firm’s largest profit center. The Kardell family no longer owned shares in the firm, which had become a publicly traded companyRead MoreEthic Paper843 Words   |  4 PagesEthics Paper Ethics Paper Financial Management is one important part of health care financial planning. Many financial decisions are made on a day to day basis from all the accounting records and all the business transactions which occur. Some are the decisions made according to the organizations fiscal objectives although some are made on generallyRead MoreEthics Paper681 Words   |  3 PagesEthics Barbara Avery Ethics/316 April 11, 2012 Monica McMorise EthicsWrite a 350- to 700-word essay comparing the similarities and differences between virtue theory, utilitarianism, and deontological ethics. Include the following in your essay:  · A description of the differences in how each theory addresses ethics and morality  · A personal experience to explain the relationship between virtue, values, and moral concepts as they relate to one of the three theories Read MoreValues And Ethics Paper : Ethics1753 Words   |  8 Pages Values and Ethics Paper Yesenia Gutierrez Arizona State University Introduction The Social Work profession is founded in a set of values and principles with one mission in mind, to enhance the wellbeing of all individuals and empowering those who are vulnerable by providing adequate services and skills. Social Workers are guided in their practice by utilizing resources like the NASW Code of Ethics, CSWE, and HIPAA to ensure that they are in compliance with the Social Work professionalRead MoreEthics Paper1203 Words   |  5 PagesAdministrative Ethics LeChonnia Ware HCS/335 November 5, 2011 Brenda Boyd Administrative Ethics There is an article that spoke about two women who both had heart attacks on the same day. Both of the women went to the same hospital. The hospital was not equipped to handle two heart attacks that happen that close. This article bothered me because of how this situation was handled. It should not have happen the way it happened. Instead of trying to save both lives a doctors’ made a decisionRead MoreEthics Paper738 Words   |  3 PagesEthics Reflection Paper November 5, 2012 STR/581 Ethics Reflection Paper Ethics oftentimes determines what is right and what is wrong. It is a moral code that determines values, morals, standards of behavior, principles, and ideas (â€Å"Ethic,† 2012). After careful review of the results achieved from the Ethics Awareness Inventory and Ethical Choices, decisions were made that helped to determine my ethical perspective. I will explain theRead MoreEthics Reflection Paper1087 Words   |  5 PagesEthics Reflection Paper Ethics and social responsibility are key factors when planning one’s personal life or planning for the success of a business. When companies develop strategic plans, they must consider what role ethics will play and how social responsibility will affect the plan keeping stakeholders need at the forefront. If businesses and individuals are making a conscious effort to display ethical behavior, ethical perspectives and beliefs should evolve over time much like what has happenedRead MoreCode of Ethics Paper1044 Words   |  5 PagesCode of Ethics Team B HCS/335 June 6, 2011 Code of Ethics Introduction Code of ethics is very important with all the different organizations and businesses that are in the world today. This paper will explain why the code of ethics is important to the organizations, what the relationship between the organization’s culture and ethical decision making is, and is it important that the organization’s ethical values support an individual’s personal ethical values. Code of ethics help anRead MorePersonal Ethics Paper1095 Words   |  5 PagesPersonal Ethics Development Paper Personal Ethics Development Paper At birth we are essentially a bare slate. At this time in our lives, we have learned nothing. Our only ability is to cry when we require nourishment or the need for individual vigilance and solace arises. Until certain things are compulsory we are content to lie there and watch the world rotate around us. Throughout life we evolve standards founded on what we have learned or experienced as we develop. The aim of evolvingRead MoreProfessional Ethics Paper1903 Words   |  8 PagesProfessional Ethics Paper Barbara Morrissey HCS/478 January 23, 2012 Ann-Marie Peckham Professional Ethics Paper Medical professionals have a responsibility to their clients to deliver safe, quality care with regard for patients’ individuality, needs, and desires. Patients seek out professional health care with their own goals in mind. Their goals may not match ours, but we as health care providers have a duty to inform and treat our clients with competence and afford them the utmost dignity

Tuesday, December 10, 2019

Dragon Tongue Essay Example For Students

Dragon Tongue Essay Foreword In the days of the Ancients there was a race like no other, for they were blessed with a unique gift of being able to speak and understand Dragon Tongue. Rumors spread about these magical folk, penetrating right into the heart of the Evil Lords great fortress in the Dark Lands. Evil Lord Malus Dominus heard of this race, and he became worried. All knew that dragons were a superior race that could be only be defeated by immortals. They were the strongest creatures alive. If these folk were to forge an alliance with the dragons he would surely perish. Before dawn the next day, he had summoned his undead warriors. They had destroyed the race before daybreak à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ well thats what they thought. A few hours later some traders passed by the spot where the village had been and they heard a noise. When they went to investigate they found a child wrapped in a silk sheet just barely alive. So they took the child and raised it as one of there own never knowing its secret. Chapter 1 à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬Å" The Truth Realized The merchants son Dazhrej was the finest archer in the Princedom of Vellantim. His father Rovnir went to the inn every night and gloated. The bandit had slain the guards surrounding the treasury and made off with the loot. If Dazhrej had not had to fetch some more silk for his father he would not have seen the bandit making off with the Princes treasure covered in the blood of the Princes royal guards. Dazhrej yelled for the man to stop. The bandit obliged, turned around and went for his barbed throwing knife. Before he had a chance to throw it he had an arrow in his arm pinning it to a tree. Before the fellow had a chance to take in the damage he had another arrow right between his eyes. The Prince thanked Dazhrej for recovering his treasure and rewarded Dazhrej by offering to foster him until knighthood. Dazhrej gladly acceptedà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦.. Three years later Dazhrej now excelled in swordplay, knife fighting and magic. Dazhrej, have the horses been readied? asked Prince Ronan. Yes, your highness, Dazhrej replied. We leave at sunrise, the Prince said. Ah, Prince Ronan, where are we going? Dazhrej asked with curiosity. The Grand Congregation of course, replied Prince Ronan. Every Prince is going to be there. Its where we draw up the trade laws, permits and settle disputes between the Princedoms. Oh. Why did you not go last year or the year before? enquired Dazhrej. Because the Grand Congregation is held every four years, the prince replied. As they crested the hill Dazhrej saw tents. They were as far as the eye could see. The colors were amazing. Blue, red, yellow and his own princedoms black and silver. Once everyone had had a few hours to settle in the proceedings began and Dazhrej accompanied his prince to the first meeting. This is  what was said: Prince Ronan, I think everyone should have free access to your port, declared Prince Carter. Well Prince Carter, then I think everyone should have free passage across your borders and in to your markets, reasoned Prince Ronan. It is a deal Prince Ronan, replied Prince Carter. The parchment was signed and the deal was made. Prince Ronans next meeting was with Prince Quarry of the Mountains Prince Quarry was the Dominant stone supplier to the whole continent and making a deal with him was a privilege prince Ronan entered the stone grey tent and saw the mighty Prince Quarry they sat down and the meeting began: Now Prince Ronan I have no time to waste so lets keep it short you Brew the finest Ale and I mine the best stone a direct swap twelve Kegs of Ale for twelve Cart loads of marble Prince Ronan pondered this and said calmly done Dazhrej accompanied Prince Ronan to his tent, and then he went to the inn and had a drink of ale. Then he went to bed. Dazhrej woke and made sure that the princes morning meal was ready and then woke his prince up. After his meal Prince Ronan had to go to another meeting with another prince. As he stepped through the door Prince Arsenal started talking. He said: Prince Ronan, were both busy men so I will keep this short. Currently I trade you a wagonload of my finest weapons and in return you send me a wagonload of gold. This is fine but if you were to send a wagon load of fish from you port then I would send a wagon load of my best armourà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ federalism EssayAh, actually no Dazhrej replied. The Elder then explained to Dazhrej that he was the son of the last king of his race this shocked him. Months passed and Dazhrej learned a lot of dragon terms. One day the hurricane strength wind that came with the larger dragons approaching whipped the mountains as Razor and Blade returned from their Outing. Dragon outings can last for years Dazhrej hid as they landed he had been met with hostility by some of the dragons who didnt know who he was and hadnt heard the elders warning that he was not to be attacked. The Dragons looked both ways and saw no one Dazhrej was under their eye sight as they were looking for dragons only, They then resumed their conversation: The Evil lord is sending an Assassin to the Meadows on the night of the Head elders Half annual feeding said Blade Yeah I cant wait till we take over said Blade as they walked away. Dazhrej ran straight to the elder as was expected but the elder refused to believe him because Razor and Blade were his Favorites and they knew it. Dazhrej pleaded with the Elder to send another dragon to the Meadow instead without telling anyone so they thought it was he and going the next day. Reluctantly the Elder agreed but told Dazhrej that if he was wrong he would be expelled from the Lairs forever. So the plan went into affect and the elder hid in his chamber while his look a like Jasper went to the meadow. A few Hours later Jasper awkwardly flew lopsided back to the Mountain with Slash marks on his wings, back, chest and neck he collapsed on impact. His recovery was slow but he worked up to the point were he could speak to told the elder what he had seen: The boy was right the assassin was there and so were Razor and Blade they stood there and laughed as he slashed me. Then let them die the elders word was Final the Next day at sunrise they were beheaded by the Great dragon they were not buried they were thrown from the Cliff top and forgotten. Dazhrej on the other hand was the hero of the dragons the Head Elder declared him Warlord of the Dragons. Chapter 3 à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬Å" The Bigger they are the Harder they fall After waking from a good nights rest Dazhrej was summoned to the main court where the head elder awaited his arrival, The Elder leapt from his lofty seat and flew to the ground where he engaged Dazhrej in conversation, For many Millennia our people have tried not to meddle in the affairs of other species and our lairs are high in the mountains where no creatures dare to venture, until now! Our kin in  the north have been laid to siege by Evil Forces and we have no battle experience, do you? Dazhrej was stunned Dragons where under siege! Head Elder how can it be that Dragons are under siege? Dazhrej Asked Our Cousins cannot breath fire and when they get close enough to attack the Dragons Bane Takes Effect within days there assailants will gather up the courage and invade Apon our helpless kin. Dragons Bane? Dazhrej enquired Dragons Bane is a potion made by the evil warriors, if a dragon comes into contact with it then there strength will be sapped to the extent that they will fall from the sky. Wow! Dazhrej exclaimed Our scouts will return in a few days then we will begin our planning you are dismissed. Dazhrej immediately went to his room and planned. The Might of a full grown flying fire breathing dragon is Great but it is rumored that the evil that comes out of the shadows in the pits of the dark lords castle could rival them. Dazhrej sought Azhwings council on the matter Dragons do not meddle in the affairs of others for just such a reason to the scholars we are but a Myth, But now we have no choice our kin are in danger I suggest that you play off our strengths Azhwing explained. What are your strengths Azhwing? Dazhrej inquired Well, we can fly as you have seen first hand also we can breathe fire that rivals the heat of liquid magma and the oldest of our elders can shape the very Earth Azhwing explained and Dazhrej Gaped in awe. Days of Planning passed.