Tuesday, January 28, 2020
Nicaraguan Cocoa Trade Essay Example for Free
Nicaraguan Cocoa Trade Essay Cocoa has been an important part of Mesoamerican life for more than a thousand years. It began as a sacred, ceremonial food until the discovery of the Americas by the Europeans. From that time to today cocoa has been a booming commodity locally and more importantly, in the worldwide marketplace. (Somarriba, 2009) However, Nicaragua struggles to capture a big portion of the international market, although cocoa from that region is generally accepted as very high quality. In the late 1970’s farmers struggled with both crop disease and lower market prices. The outcome was a massive replacement by farmers from cocoa to bananas, which were believed to be more profitable. The effect was a decrease in cocoa bean production, which has remained relatively low until recently. Today cocoa is frequently cultivated by indigenous peoples and peasant farmers. Many Mesoamerican countries use the cocoa farms as a key land use effort to reducing poverty. (Somarriba, 2009) However, Nicaragua is beginning to turn their focus on better production methods, and more land specifically designated to the production of cocoa. Experts have estimated that only 6400 hectares are farmed each year in the cultivation of cocoa. That number roughly represents about one thousand cubic tons per year in cocoa production. (Navarrete, 2005) In addition to this, most farmers are small scale generational farmers, passing along traditions through the years. However, it has also been estimated that in comparison to the 6400 hectares that are farmed each year, a possible 350,000 hectares are suitable for cocoa production. (Navarretes, 2005) This exciting prospect is further fueled by the high demand for quality cocoa by international buyers such as Germany, The Netherlands, and the USA. (Dand, 2009) Although Nicaraguan cocoa is known for its very desirable characteristics and therefore good market prices, the area struggles with low production. The two biggest contributors to such minimal output are both poor agricultural management and technology, and plant-diseases. (Navarretes, 2005) Cultivating cocoa is a relatively easy crop. Many farmers like the lack of costly equipment or chemicals that would eat up profits. However, cocoa is very labor intensive. One of the many problems facing Nicaraguan farmers is learning how to deal with these issues on a steady basis to increase crop production. Firstly, soil preparation and plot placement is important. Cocoa needs well drained soil and plenty of water, humidity and sunshine. Often the small considerations like weeding and cutting down excessive shade trees that steal soil nutrients and sunlight are neglected and cause poor crops, although they are fairly easy problems to remedy. . (Navarretes, 2005)Another easy remedy that is often overlooked is that of dead or diseased pod and limb removal. Neglecting such seemingly simple tasks have had disastrous effects on whole cocoa crops. The diseased or dead pods and limbs quickly become diseased and spread rapidly throughout the crop. Adding to these mounting problems, farmers try to save crops with chemicals, but misuse and poor techniques result in killing the crops anyway. One of the most deadly diseases that cocoa farms are susceptible to is the Monilia virus. This devastating virus acts like a cancer and is very easily spread. In the late 1980’s the Monilia virus was responsible for crop failures in most of Mesoamerica. (Lok, p. 251) Management practices were introduced to help educate farmers on easy methods to save crops. These included removing infected fruit, pruning and weed control. One of the biggest problems remaining today that stands as a great hindrance to the desired cocoa production is simply that many of these farmers are ill-educated on farming techniques, and don’t know how to identify or resolve any of these fairly simple problems. However, NGO’s and extensionist groups have tried to come in and remedy the problems. Extensionists focused mainly on farming practices and taught farmers how to identify and resolve problems. Also, they spent time educating farmers on methods for stimulating production, site choices and record keeping. Several problems were faced in all of these areas. First of all, one method which involves opening up the crown of the tree for longer term production must be carefully balanced by how much water is near the tree, humidity being an important factor in healthy cocoa trees. In one study after education the farmer on proper techniques, the farmer didn’t relate the balance of humidity and sunshine, and lost the entire crop to dehydration. This proved to encourage distrust in the farmers of the extensionists who were there to help leading to the general consensus by the farmers that they should continue to stick to their own methods. (Lok, p. 255) As one farmer expressed his feelings on the matter, â€Å"I was told to establish my plot here, because it was the best place according to the extensionists, but I regret having done so. Next time I will establish my plot far from the river on the slope. This will give me less work, while still producing an acceptable amount of cocoa. †(Lok, p. 255) In addition to differences with training techniques, resistance by farmers was also had in relaying the importance of cutting down other trees that inhibit good cocoa crop production. Part of the problem lies in the simple fact that farmers use many of the trees for other necessary uses. For example, many of the shade trees are used for firewood and fruit and are seen by the farmers as being indispensable. Moreover, when trying to establish a basis for recording yield production, extensionists found that farmers would hesitate to give the correct amount. Farmers insecure living circumstances, murder, theft and kidnapping, as well as debts needing to be repaid to the NGO’s all play their part in the farmer’s inconsistencies and reluctance to report accurately. Unfortunately these problems only add to the difficulties being faced in trying to increase production. (Lok, p. 255) With the aid of extensionists also came the helpful tools that the NGO’s had to offer. Because most cocoa was initially sold to middle men, farmers got low prices for their crops, thus ensuring the cycle of low production. With help from NGO’s cocoa prices went up which opened opportunities for funding for better methods. The main problem faced in this are was mostly one that often strikes countries struggling with economic development. One government leader in attempting to address this problem of squandering increased income bluntly stated, â€Å"Brother workers and peasants, begging your pardon, but you will have to get drunk less, and dedicate the money to your family. †(Fagen, 1986) Its second largest task of providing ways to market its product has been aided both internally and externally. With new focus on commercialization and export procedures change is inevitable. Just as in the case with farming techniques, many of the issues that are hindering a large scale export are easily resolved. For instance, one of the major obstacles in the commercial cycle is simply that the roads are in such bad condition make travel impassable. (Dand, 1997) With the addition of government projects and government backing the potential for success is high. In addition, Nicaraguan commercialization of cocoa is focusing on the utilization of the CAFTA organization to help increase productivity. (Dilger, 2005) Following CAFTA encouragement, Nicaragua would focus its commercialization with the United States, who â€Å"buys 25% of the world production†. With this strengthened focus CAFTA will also push cocoa as a free market product, trying to lift restrictions and increase sales. (Dilger, 2005) Interestingly, CAFTA is also aware of the traditional cocoa cultivation practices and is urging farmers to try mew methods. (Dilger, 2005) Regardless of the many obstacles, the national goal of Nicaragua to increase production of one of its finest exports remains strong. Nicaragua is aware of its problems of low production, lack of credit, persistent Monilia, and pricing wars. (Dilger, 2005) However, with Nicaragua’s high quality cocoa and the accompanying international demands, Nicaragua could easily compete in the international cocoa trade. The potential for growth is strong, as is the determination of Nicaragua. References Dand, R. (1997). The International Cocoa Trade. New York: John Wiley Sons. Retrieved March 26, 2009, from Questia database: http://www. questia. com/PM. qst? a=od=114030771 Dilger, Robert. Kopsell, Edgar. (August 2005) Estrategias publicas-privadas en el sector Cacoa en Nicaragua y Acuerdos regionales de comercio libre. Fagen, R. R. (1986, November). The Politics of Transition. Monthly Review, 38, 1+. Retrieved March 26, 2009, from Questia database: http://www. questia. com/PM. qst? a=od=5002128448 Lok, Rossana. (1998) Traditional Cocoa Agroforesrty Systems in Wasala, Nicaragua. Navarrete, Ignacio Thelma Gaitan. (2005). Cadena del Cultivo Cacao. Somarriba, Eduardo. Sustainable Cocoa Production in Mesoamerica. www. worldcocoafoundation. org. Retrieved March 26, 2009
Monday, January 20, 2020
Ritz Carlton Background :: essays research papers
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company has achieved so much fame in their marketplace that they have attained what is referred to as â€Å"The Ritz Mystique.†Among the grand hotels of the world, The Ritz-Carlton hotels and resorts are famous for luxury, spectacular surroundings and legendary service. They have gained this title with dedication and award-winning hotels that reflect the 100 years of tradition that stand behind them. Discovering the fascinating history of Ritz-Carlton hotels, illustrates their commitment on relentless training to improve their quality in service and their strategy. Ritz-Carlton has achieved a Gold Standard of value and philosophy by which they operate. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. originates with the 1983 purchase of The Ritz-Carlton, Boston by William B. Johnson, and the purchase of rights to The Ritz-Carlton name. The standards of service, dining and facilities of this Boston landmark serve as a benchmark for all Ritz-Carlton hotels and resorts worldwide. In 1927, Edward N. Wyner, a local Boston real estate developer, was asked to build a world-class hotel. Wyner agreed because he knew The Ritz-Carlton name would secure immediate success. He received permission from The Ritz-Carlton Investing Company and the Paris Ritz for use of the name and set out to create luxury in the heart of Boston. Edward Wyner died in 1961. However, the Ritz legacy endured with Charles Ritz, son of Cesar Ritz, who was an active board member of The Ritz-Carlton until his death in 1977. In 1983, Blakely sold the hotel and the rights to The Ritz-Carlton name to William B. Johnson, who established The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. The company has grown a collection of the finest hotels around the world since. Several of these hotels are historic landmarks, following a commitment of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company to preserving architecturally important buildings. One of these examples is The Ritz-Carlton, Huntington Hotel & Spa. As a famous Pasadena landmark for nearly 100 years, the Huntington Hotel went through many owners and stages to get where they are today. The hotel was finished with its final rebuilding and renovating stages and reopened as The Ritz-Carlton, Huntington Hotel in March 1991. Originally the hotel was constructed in 1906 and opened in February 1907 as the Hotel Wentworth. Financial problems and a disappointing first season forced the Hotel Wentworth to go out of business. Railroad tycoon and art collector Henry Huntington purchased the Hotel Wentworth in 1911, renaming it the Huntington Hotel.
Sunday, January 12, 2020
Free-Speech on College Campuses Essay
           Thesis Statement:             The prohibition of hate-speech or any speech which constitutes a â€Å"clear and present danger†to students on college campuses is a good and necessary policy.            Summary of Opinions:            The issue of free-speech on college campuses poses a complex debate. Key factors of the controversy include: the rights to personal safety and free expression, as well as factors of racial and gender tolerance. The volatile nature of the issue ensures adjudication at the highest levels and also a far-reaching historical set of precedents, none of which has successfully â€Å"answered†the issues of free-speech and civic welfare. It seems prudent that the US Constitution should provide the framework by which all policies of free-speech are reckoned. â€Å"The First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution states, in part, that â€Å"Congress shall make no law . . . abridging the freedom of speech.†This freedom is deemed a fundamental right, because it assures individual self-fulfillment or autonomy,†(Zingo 17) .            Zingo discusses how the 1st amendment serves many interests: â€Å"it is a means of advancing knowledge and searching for truth; it gives all members of society an opportunity to participate in the political process of self-governance; and it provides a safety valve for society[†¦] because suppression of discussion is injurious to society.†(Zingo) With that in mind, it is also useful to peruse counter-arguments which posit a more modernist interpretation of the First Amendment. â€Å"Media-law experts attempt to impose the eighteenth-century ideals of freedom of speech and press on the modern world as if no changes have taken place. Today, First Amendment doctrine assumes that governmental censorship still poses a greater and more real threat to our rational self-governing ideal than self-gratification,†(Collins, and Skover 25).             However, the Constitutional and judicial basis for restrictions on free speech stands far aside from this contention: â€Å"the Supreme Court ruled on a case challenging speech regulation[†¦] question in every case is whether the words used are used in such circumstances and are of such a nature as to create a clear and present danger that they will bring about the substantive evils that Congress has a right to prevent. It is a question of proximity and degree,†(Zingo 18). Questions and Rhetorical Strategies Key questions: 1) What constitutes â€Å"clear and present danger?†2) What are methods for enforcing legislation. 3) How have prior Supreme Court first amendment cases been decided? 4) How to define a hate-crime. Rhetorical strategies:                To convince that racism, sexism, and hate-crimes constitute a â€Å"clear and present danger†to students on college campuses will require evidence and citation from legal opinions and legal precedent. The â€Å"hate-crime†according to preliminary research seems to be a well-established fact, backed by substantive evidence and scientific study. â€Å"Despite the tremendous strides resulting from civil rights legislation, racism remains one of the most pressing social problems in the US[†¦] Hate crimes have been prominent on university campuses for the last two decades but vary widely in their targets and severity.†(Marcus et al.) Whether or not a college chooses to restrict the freedom of speech based on the Constitutional premise of â€Å"clear and present danger†there is a question as to whether or not prohibition of discriminatory speech, alone, will curtail racist and discriminatory practices. â€Å"In recent years, attempts to curtail racially discriminatory activities have focused largely on speech codes to limit inflammatory presentations (Altman, 1993) but these attempts have not been well received.†(Marcus et al.)            Audience            I believe that prohibition of hate-speech or any speech which constitutes a â€Å"clear and present danger†to students is an important issue for all citizens, but especially to those who may be impacted directly by hate-crimes. Most minority students wqill probably be sympathetic to my thesis while â€Å"conservatives†will see it as an infringement of civil rights. Ironically, liberals may also view it this way, or even more ironically they may not view it this way and in so doing, they will have become sympathetic to a restraining of free-speech.                                                            Bibliography Collins, Ronald K. L., and David M. Skover. The Death of Discourse. Boulder, CO: Westview Press, 1996. Marcus, Ann, et al. â€Å"Perceptions of Racism on Campus.†College Student Journal 37.4 (2003): 611+. Zingo, Martha T. Sex/Gender Outsiders, Hate Speech, and Freedom of Expression: Can They   Say That about Me?. Westport, CT: Praeger Publishers, 1998. Jacobs, James B., and Kimberly Potter. Hate Crimes Criminal Law & Identity Politics. Oxford:            Oxford University Press, 2001.
Saturday, January 4, 2020
Conflict Resolution - 6008 Words
Conflict Resolution Introduction There are various approaches and ways in which the term conflict is defined. Almost all organizations have relationships, which are possible agents of conflicts. Conflict refers to human confrontations, which create disagreements between two or more parties. Within a normal human interaction, it is obvious to find conflicting opinions, ideologies, principles, and structures of believe. Some instances of disagreements and difference in pathways of executing difficult and minor activities within an organization or company create conflicts. Ways of thinking cannot be similar among two and more people. Approaches of work, desires, and needs among people are of diverse magnitudes. In trying to have common and universal way of activity, it is imperative to involve a number of mechanisms integrating diversity on the conflicting commodities. Opinions keep changing among individuals within an organization. Furthermore, it is hard to have a common way of focusing on situations and responding to different needs of growth and development within a corporation or organization. When such incidences of disagreements on opinions occur, it becomes hard for an organization or institution to pursue its normal pathways of growth and development. Therefore, it needs what is called conflict resolution measure or approach (Kellett and Diana 68). Conflicts are of two main difference or perception within an organization. Conflicts can be hugely powerful andShow MoreRelated Conflict Resolution Essay1288 Words  | 6 Pages Major conflict that is not dealt with can devastate a team or organization (Make Conflict Work, 2008). In some situations, conflict can be more constructive than destructive. Recognizing the difference between conflict that is constructive to the team and conflict that is destructive to the team is important. 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