Challenger Essays - Space Shuttle Challenger Disaster,

Challenger It was a cold, crisp, and damp morning on the Florida Space Coast as the space shuttle Challenger raced through the sky at speeds approaching mach 2 at an altitude of 104,000 feet when something went perilously wrong. All of America watched, including the family members of the seven doomed crew members, as Challenger exploded into an expansive ball of fire, smoke and steam. An "Oh. . . no!" came as the crew's final utterance from the shuttle as the orbiter broke-up. As the reality of what she was seeing became apparent, Pilot Michael John Smith's daughter, 9 year old Erin Smith, could be heard yelling, "Daddy! Daddy! I want you, Daddy! You promised nothing would happen!" Unfortunately, the events of that tragic day could have been easily prevented. Weather had been the main cause for five delays during the last month. The launch had been carried out in spite on the fact that weather was the worst it had ever been in NASA's history of manned space flight. With so many ! delays encountered in that twenty-fifth shuttle mission, NASA had become careless in getting Challenger on its way. As Challenger sat on the pad awaiting it's ill-fated mission, there were signs that there was something wrong with the Right hand SRB (Solid Rocket Booster). Nevertheless these signs were ignored by a neglectful staff whose only concern was scheduling and not safety. Also, at the time of the accident, for purely monetary reasons, the shuttle had not been fitted with a means of escape for the crew in the case of an emergency; a fact not revealed until after the accident. Though the Space shuttle was the cutting edge of technology at the time, new advancements in technology make the Space Shuttle old, unsafe, inefficient, and not cost effective. However, because of cut backs in funding, NASA is unable to make any advancements in it's technology to prevent another catastrophic accident for the space program. Also as a result of the cut backs, NASA has had tro! uble keeping the existing space shuttles' hardware kept up. The effects of the accident were numerous; the space program was shut down for three years. Also the effects on the NASA staff were immense, leaving a feeling of guilt and fear. On January 28, 1986, the space shuttle Challenger and it's crew embarked on a mission to broaden educational horizons and promote the advancement of scientific knowledge; their mission was cut short in one of the most tragic and most easily prevented tragedies in America's history in space. Before the accident, the 51-L (This mission's assigned number) mission was supposed to be remembered for many reasons. One reason was that this was to be the twenty-fifth space shuttle mission. Another reason was that this was to be the first shuttle launch from pad 39-b which hadn't been used since the Apollo missions. However, The major reason was this was to be the first crew to include a civilian member. Sharon Chista McAuliffe was chosen from a pool of 11,400 applicants. McAuliffe, 37, was a social studies teacher in Concord High School in New Hampshire. While in space, she planned to still teach two lessons entitled, "Where we've been, where we're going, why?", to her class. Then, at T plus 1:13, the mission and its crew became remembered for other, more disastrous reasons. An O-ring in the right SRB shattered in the extreme cold and began allowing liquid hydrogen to leak then explode incinerating the seven crew members, destroying the valuable payload, and bring! ing the space program to a halt for nearly three years. America listened a long ten seconds before "?the commentary was resumed in a tense monotone"(Lewis, p21); "Flight Controllers are looking very carefully at the situation. Obviously a major malfunction. We have no downlink. We have a report from the flight dynamics officer that the vehicle has exploded. The flight director confirms that. We are looking at checking with recovery forces to see what can be done at this point. Contingency procedures are in effect. We will report more as we have information available?"(Lewis, p21) "Major Malfunction", a phrase that stuck with everyone watching the launch that day. Although later, flight commentator Nesbit would be

Free Essays on Woodchucks

Woodchucks Maxine Kumin’s, Woodchucks provides perspective into the mind state of those influenced by nazi warfare. What begins as a seemingly humorous cat and mouse hunt, soon develops into an insatiable lust for blood. Kumin’s descriptive language provides the reader with the insight necessary to understand to the speaker’s psychology as they are driven beyond the boundaries of pacifism. The poem does indeed have a rhyme scheme, yet doesn’t conform to conventional forms of rhyme such as A, B, A, B, etc. Rather, each stanza seems to follow the order of A, B, C, A, C, B, which may not be apparent to the reader at first, but doesn’t hinder the poem’s effectiveness. The first stanza begins with the speaker describing their failed attempt at eliminating the pests. The first attempt was described as merciful: â€Å"The knockout bomb from the Feed and Grain Exchange was featured as merciful, quick at the bone;† however, the following lines offer a bit of humor to the chase as it seems the woodchuck has outsmarted the speaker as a result of their overconfidence: â€Å"and the case we had against them was airtight, both exits shoehorned shut with puddingstone, but they had a sub-sub-basement out of range.† This first stanza sets the stage for what would appear to be a humorous battle of wits between the speaker and the woodchucks. The following stanza continues in this vein with the cynical statement, â€Å"Next morning they turned up again, no worse for the cyanide than we for our cigarettes and state-store Scotch, all of us up to scratch;† however, those that follow are slowly indicative of the speaker’s mental deterioration. The statements of the food being eaten by the woodchucks are filled with bitterness as the language begins to resemble that of a killer. â€Å"They brought down the marigolds as a matter of course and then took over the vegetable patch nipping the broccoli shoots, beheading the carrots.† This is especi... Free Essays on Woodchucks Free Essays on Woodchucks Woodchucks Maxine Kumin’s, Woodchucks provides perspective into the mind state of those influenced by nazi warfare. What begins as a seemingly humorous cat and mouse hunt, soon develops into an insatiable lust for blood. Kumin’s descriptive language provides the reader with the insight necessary to understand to the speaker’s psychology as they are driven beyond the boundaries of pacifism. The poem does indeed have a rhyme scheme, yet doesn’t conform to conventional forms of rhyme such as A, B, A, B, etc. Rather, each stanza seems to follow the order of A, B, C, A, C, B, which may not be apparent to the reader at first, but doesn’t hinder the poem’s effectiveness. The first stanza begins with the speaker describing their failed attempt at eliminating the pests. The first attempt was described as merciful: â€Å"The knockout bomb from the Feed and Grain Exchange was featured as merciful, quick at the bone;† however, the following lines offer a bit of humor to the chase as it seems the woodchuck has outsmarted the speaker as a result of their overconfidence: â€Å"and the case we had against them was airtight, both exits shoehorned shut with puddingstone, but they had a sub-sub-basement out of range.† This first stanza sets the stage for what would appear to be a humorous battle of wits between the speaker and the woodchucks. The following stanza continues in this vein with the cynical statement, â€Å"Next morning they turned up again, no worse for the cyanide than we for our cigarettes and state-store Scotch, all of us up to scratch;† however, those that follow are slowly indicative of the speaker’s mental deterioration. The statements of the food being eaten by the woodchucks are filled with bitterness as the language begins to resemble that of a killer. â€Å"They brought down the marigolds as a matter of course and then took over the vegetable patch nipping the broccoli shoots, beheading the carrots.† This is especi...

St. Augustine' Art of Rhetoric Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

St. Augustine' Art of Rhetoric - Essay Example years. I have gone through his works and heard one of his quotes that I really enjoyed because it explained very eloquently one of my main pursuits in life. The quote goes "The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page." (Saint Augustine). Hearing that quote got me interested in learning more about this Saint and his life and rhetoric works. St. Augustine was an extremely intelligent man. He was born at Tagaste in proconsul Numidia in 354, to pagan father and a Christian mother. After his first studies in his native city, he went to Carthage, with the financial aid of Romanians, to complete his studies in rhetoric. At the same time, however, he fell a slave to his youthful passions and even became connected with the Manichaean religious sect. After completing his studies, he first established his school at Tagaste, and later at Carthage, where he taught rhetoric for eight years, at the same time studying philosophy and the natural sciences. Augustine was greatly influenced during his education and in his adolescence byCicero, a Roman rhetorician, a great master of Latin rhetoric and composition and especially one of his works in particular,Hortensius. Augustine stated that rhetoric is neither good nor bad in it self, but can be used to effectively defend both what is true and what is false.

Rembrandt Van Rijn's Paintings Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Rembrandt Van Rijn's Paintings - Term Paper Example The paper "Rembrandt Van Rijn's Paintings" explores â€Å"The Blinding of Samson† and â€Å"The Avenge of Samson† by Rembrandt van Rijn. While there have been identified more than 400 original works by Rembrandt that have lived through centuries, no one doubts that in the past there existed many more which, unfortunately, have either been lost or destroyed. Today one may savor the beauty and emotional depth of a variety of portraits created by Rembrandt back in the 17th century. However, what is even more appealing for a modern viewer is Rembrandt’s paintings devoted to the Biblical themes and based on the events either from the Old or New Testament. It is hard to say why exactly, but the Biblical story of the Hebrew hero Samson, who was known to possess inordinate strength and was kind of God’s champion, was particularly interesting to Rembrandt. The art scholars attribute 5 original works by Rembrandt devoted to Samson’s life events. The Blinding of Samson (1636) is probably the most famous of them. Interestingly, it has been found that one more painting that explored the Samson motif was created by Rembrandt almost immediately after The Blinding of Samson. The Avenge by Samson (1638) was completed two years later and was kept in a private collection of Rembrandt’s powerful patron Prince Frederick Hendrick of Orange during his lifetime. Allegedly, it was destroyed during the fire of 1712 or was stolen at the moment of panic in the burning house where it was kept. This paper seeks to explore the meaning., historical context and the form of The Blinding of Samson and, based on this research, hypothesize what the details of The Avenge of Samson might have been. It also focuses on the place these artworks had/might have had in the career of their author – Rembrandt van Rijn. The Blinding of Samson: Form, Meaning and Historical Context The Blinding of Samson was created back in 1636. At that time, artists typically used natural materials that they made themselves, most often oil. The Blinding of Samson is not an exception to that rule. It is written in oil on canvas and it is quite large (235x302 cm). While the painting is an example of the Baroque art and represents the Biblical episode, it is quite naturalistic. It can be attributed to the author’s careful use of form. In particular, this artwork exemplifies â€Å"the dark manner† which was introduced by Rembrandt’s predecessor Caravaggio. In this painting, Rembrandt used luxuriant brushwork which combined with rich color and masterful use of chiaroscuro (the technique of treatment of both light and shade). Specifically, his brushstrokes are, as usual, broad and thick. Also, it is these layers of glaze that evidently provide scenes with extra depth and also gravity. Critics claim that these technique helped Rembrandt depict the mood as well as inner mental feeling of the figures since it accentuated their physical featur es along with expressions on their faces (Encyclopedia of Art, visual-arts-cork.com). In relation to this, Armold Houbraken, a painter and a contemporary of Rembrandt who was familiar with the way the great Dutchman worked described that very often his artworks â€Å"looked as though the paint has been smeared on with a bricklayer’s towel† (van de Wetering 5). Yet, it is this working method that allows his paintings to create an extremely light

Reflective Account and SMART Action Plan Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Reflective Account and SMART Action Plan - Essay Example Employability will be essential in building skills that involve personal knowledge hence make me be in a better position to secure an occupation that is secure and satisfying. Dynamic indicator types is a type of report that will help me understand myself and help me know the factors that make me different from other people. I learnt a lesson regarding graduate labour markets, and from my perspective, students who study courses that are less practical have high possibilities of going back to school to further their education based on the narrowness of the job opportunities for them. Decision making is also a proactive activity that will help in selecting options that are essential in career development. When choosing the career I want, I will employ both sociological theory and matching theory because with the help of these choices, I will attain self-esteem and be able to explore available potentials. I underwent an overview of job searching and networking skills and learnt that there are different types of work experience. Job shadowing being a type of job experience is an interesting form of work in the way it gives an insight on how professionalism goes on in the day-to-day life. With job shadowing, I will be able to gain knowledge on roles of a certain job difference in various organizations. Work experience, on the other hand will help in increasing the awareness of my personality because having a good work experience will enable me have a clear goal of my career. With fierce job completion that is experienced these days, I have learnt that having a good CV gives me competitive. For the CV to be good, it has to contain all the basic details, give general ideas about experiences gained while at work and even in school not forgetting achievements made. There is a great difference in the way CVs are written in China and UK. For instance, most employers in China, a passport phot o is necessary in a CV including ethnicity and political

Event-Driven Programming Features

Event-Driven Programming Features Event-driven programming known as a computer programming paradigm that used the occurrence of events to determine the control flow of the program. This type of application is designed to detect events as they occur, and use an appropriate event-handling procedure to deal with it, which normally use a callback function or method. Theoretically, event-driven style of programming is supported in all programming languages, but they may different in the way of implement it, for example, its easier to implement in languages that provide high-level abstractions, such as closures. Besides, for other programming environments such as Adobe Flash, they are specifically tailored for triggering program code by events. Generally, there is a main loop in an event-driven application that used to listen for events and triggers a callback function when there are events is detected. Key features and characteristics of event-driven programming Service Oriented Service oriented is a key features in event-driven programming that used to write programs that are made for services and it takes does not slow down the computer as service oriented only consume little of the computer processing power and usually services run in the background of OS. Time Driven In event driven programming, time driven is a paradigm, its a code that runs on a time trigger, time driven can be a specific code that runs on a specific time, which could be once an hour, once a week or once a month, this means its a pre-set to do task. For example, windows update is the example of time driven, which user can set when to update or when to check and download the update. Event Handlers Event handlers is a type of function or method that run a specific action when a specific event is triggered. For example, it could be a button that when user click it, it will display a message, and it will close the message when user click the button again, this is an event handler. Trigger Functions Trigger functions in event-driven programming are a functions that decide what code to run when there are a specific event occurs, which are used to select which event handler to use for the event when there is specific event occurred. Events Events include mouse, keyboard and user interface, which events need to be triggered in the program in order to happen, that mean user have to interacts with an object in the program, for example, click a button by a mouse, use keyboard to select a button and etc. Simplicity of Programming and Ease of Development Event-driven programming is simple and easier to program compared to other type of programming as its very visual, for example you can place a button by just select it and place it onto a form and write a code for it. Event-driven programming also easy for user to insert a pre-written code scripts into an existing application because it allows user to pause the code while its running. Which make developing using event-driven programming is easy. Compare Event Driven Programming with Object-oriented Programming (OOP) As mentioned above, event-driven programming known as a computer programming paradigm that used the occurrence of events to determine the control flow of the program, while objects-oriented programming (OOP) treats datafields as objects manipulated through pre-defined methods only and it constructed over four major principles, which are Encapsulation, Data Abstraction, Polymorphism and Inheritance. JavaScript, ActionScript, Visual Basic and Elm are the example for event-driven programming, while C++, C#, Java, Python, Ruby and Scala are the examples for object-oriented programming. In event-driven programming, a program is executed when they detected an event occur, for example, use mouse to click a button to show a message. Besides, in object-oriented programming, emphasis is given to data and classes are the main part of OOP, which mean classes are the blueprints of object and keep the data secure in the classes, only methods of particular classes are allowed to view the data. The classes are also different between event-driven programming and object oriented programming. In OOP, classes can be created by own while in event-driven programming user must use the defined classes. Object-oriented programming and event-driven programming may use together, which mentioned above that event-driven programming are support in all programming language, its just the way of implement it may different. References What is event-driven programming? (2017). Retrieved January 17, 2017, from http://www.computerhope.com/jargon/e/event-driven-prog.htm 1010, zakkcuthbert. (2014, November 7). Key features of event driven programs. Retrieved January 17, 2017, from https://zakkcuthbertunit14eventdrivenprogramming.wordpress.com/2014/11/07/key-features-of-event-driven-programs/ Event-driven programming (2017). . In Wikipedia. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Event-driven_programming#Common_uses Comparison of programming paradigms (2017). . In Wikipedia. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Comparison_of_programming_paradigms Studytonight. (2016). Object oriented programming concepts in C++. Retrieved January 17, 2017, from http://www.studytonight.com/cpp/cpp-and-oops-concepts.php

Britain And America Revolution :: essays research papers

Since the historical conflict between Great Britain and her North American colonies began to unfold, historians have searched for the reasoning behind it. Many experts have discussed the various reasons for the conflict. Some experts believe the conflict occurred because America and Britain had become vastly different social and political entities. Others say that economical disagreements caused the conflict. However, these economical and social forces worked hand-in-hand to slowly erode away the binds that held America to its Mother Country. The traditional liberties of Britain and the newly established liberties of America were very different. After the French and Indian War, the colonies were “heavily'; taxed to sow together the damaged British pocketbook. These economical problems and social distinctions needed to be mended simultaneously or the war could not be avoided.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  First, the traditional liberties of Britain were considerably different from the political and social origins of America. From the beginning, America developed different character than its Mother Country of Great Britain. In New England, where the seeds of revolution were sown, merchants used their shipping trade to defy English duties on sugar. As a result of this, additional troops were sent to the colonies to enforce British laws. Later, when the Quartering Act was passed, Americans complained against not only the taxation, but also an infringement on their rights of property. Before the conflict between Britain and France over the Ohio Valley and Canada, America was given practically free reign over its political liberties too. It set up colonial legislatures and citizenship by the act of owning land. Its government system wasn’t based on birthright and a monarch, they were for individual freedoms and the right to participate in government. But when the “tyrannical'; King George jumped in demanding control of the colonies, they were angered and looked for a way to keep their liberties.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Second, America was taxed by the British government to decrease its national debt. Due to their differences in economic base, Britain was self-sufficient in manufacturing goods and the colonies in agriculture. They both needed each other to survive initially. Later, however, America grew more self-sufficient and was able to survive without Britain’s helping hand. America had developed ships to trade with, which were primarily based in the New England colonies. America developed a strong agricultural base and crop source in the southern plantations and middle, “bread';, colonies. They also utilized these economic resources by generating trade with other countries such as France and her West Indian colonies.

The Lost Symbol Chapter 1-3

CHAPTER 1 The Otis elevator climbing the south pillar of the Eiffel Tower was overflowing with tourists. Inside the cramped lift, an austere businessman in a pressed suit gazed down at the boy beside him. â€Å"You look pale, son. You should have stayed on the ground.† â€Å"I'm okay . . .† the boy answered, struggling to control his anxiety. â€Å"I'll get out on the next level.† I can't breathe. The man leaned closer. â€Å"I thought by now you would have gotten over this.† He brushed the child's cheek affectionately. The boy felt ashamed to disappoint his father, but he could barely hear through the ringing in his ears. I can't breathe. I've got to get out of this box! The elevator operator was saying something reassuring about the lift's articulated pistons and puddled-iron construction. Far beneath them, the streets of Paris stretched out in all directions. Almost there, the boy told himself, craning his neck and looking up at the unloading platform. Just hold on. As the lift angled steeply toward the upper viewing deck, the shaft began to narrow, its massive struts contracting into a tight, vertical tunnel. â€Å"Dad, I don't think–â€Å" Suddenly a staccato crack echoed overhead. The carriage jerked, swaying awkwardly to one side. Frayed cables began whipping around the carriage, thrashing like snakes. The boy reached out for his father. â€Å"Dad!† Their eyes locked for one terrifying second. Then the bottom dropped out. Robert Langdon jolted upright in his soft leather seat, startling out of the semiconscious daydream. He was sitting all alone in the enormous cabin of a Falcon 2000EX corporate jet as it bounced its way through turbulence. In the background, the dual Pratt & Whitney engines hummed evenly. â€Å"Mr. Langdon?† The intercom crackled overhead. â€Å"We're on final approach.† Langdon sat up straight and slid his lecture notes back into his leather daybag. He'd been halfway through reviewing Masonic symbology when his mind had drifted. The daydream about his late father, Langdon suspected, had been stirred by this morning's unexpected invitation from Langdon's longtime mentor, Peter Solomon. The other man I never want to disappoint. The fifty-eight-year-old philanthropist, historian, and scientist had taken Langdon under his wing nearly thirty years ago, in many ways filling the void left by Langdon's father's death. Despite the man's influential family dynasty and massive wealth, Langdon had found humility and warmth in Solomon's soft gray eyes. Outside the window the sun had set, but Langdon could still make out the slender silhouette of the world's largest obelisk, rising on the horizon like the spire of an ancient gnomon. The 555- foot marble-faced obelisk marked this nation's heart. All around the spire, the meticulous geometry of streets and monuments radiated outward. Even from the air, Washington, D.C., exuded an almost mystical power. Langdon loved this city, and as the jet touched down, he felt a rising excitement about what lay ahead. The jet taxied to a private terminal somewhere in the vast expanse of Dulles International Airport and came to a stop. Langdon gathered his things, thanked the pilots, and stepped out of the jet's luxurious interior onto the foldout staircase. The cold January air felt liberating. Breathe, Robert, he thought, appreciating the wide-open spaces. A blanket of white fog crept across the runway, and Langdon had the sensation he was stepping into a marsh as he descended onto the misty tarmac. â€Å"Hello! Hello!† a singsong British voice shouted from across the tarmac. â€Å"Professor Langdon?† Langdon looked up to see a middle-aged woman with a badge and clipboard hurrying toward him, waving happily as he approached. Curly blond hair protruded from under a stylish knit wool hat. â€Å"Welcome to Washington, sir!† Langdon smiled. â€Å"Thank you.† â€Å"My name is Pam, from passenger services.† The woman spoke with an exuberance that was almost unsettling. â€Å"If you'll come with me, sir, your car is waiting.† Langdon followed her across the runway toward the Signature terminal, which was surrounded by glistening private jets. A taxi stand for the rich and famous. â€Å"I hate to embarrass you, Professor,† the woman said, sounding sheepish, â€Å"but you are the Robert Langdon who writes books about symbols and religion, aren't you?† Langdon hesitated and then nodded. â€Å"I thought so!† she said, beaming. â€Å"My book group read your book about the sacred feminine and the church! What a delicious scandal that one caused! You do enjoy putting the fox in the henhouse!† Langdon smiled. â€Å"Scandal wasn't really my intention.† The woman seemed to sense Langdon was not in the mood to discuss his work. â€Å"I'm sorry. Listen to me rattling on. I know you probably get tired of being recognized . . . but it's your own fault.† She playfully motioned to his clothing. â€Å"Your uniform gave you away.† My uniform? Langdon glanced down at his attire. He was wearing his usual charcoal turtleneck, Harris Tweed jacket, khakis, and collegiate cordovan loafers . . . his standard attire for the classroom, lecture circuit, author photos, and social events. The woman laughed. â€Å"Those turtlenecks you wear are so dated. You'd look much sharper in a tie!† No chance, Langdon thought. Little nooses. Neckties had been required six days a week when Langdon attended Phillips Exeter Academy, and despite the headmaster's romantic claims that the origin of the cravat went back to the silk fascalia worn by Roman orators to warm their vocal cords, Langdon knew that, etymologically, cravat actually derived from a ruthless band of â€Å"Croat† mercenaries who donned knotted neckerchiefs before they stormed into battle. To this day, this ancient battle garb was donned by modern office warriors hoping to intimidate their enemies in daily boardroom battles. â€Å"Thanks for the advice,† Langdon said with a chuckle. â€Å"I'll consider a tie in the future.† Mercifully, a professional-looking man in a dark suit got out of a sleek Lincoln Town Car parked near the terminal and held up his finger. â€Å"Mr. Langdon? I'm Charles with Beltway Limousine.† He opened the passenger door. â€Å"Good evening, sir. Welcome to Washington.† Langdon tipped Pam for her hospitality and then climbed into the plush interior of the Town Car. The driver showed him the temperature controls, the bottled water, and the basket of hot muffins. Seconds later, Langdon was speeding away on a private access road. So this is how the other half lives. As the driver gunned the car up Windsock Drive, he consulted his passenger manifest and placed a quick call. â€Å"This is Beltway Limousine,† the driver said with professional efficiency. â€Å"I was asked to confirm once my passenger had landed.† He paused. â€Å"Yes, sir. Your guest, Mr. Langdon, has arrived, and I will deliver him to the Capitol Building by seven P.M. You're welcome, sir.† He hung up. Langdon had to smile. No stone left unturned. Peter Solomon's attention to detail was one of his most potent assets, allowing him to manage his substantial power with apparent ease. A few billion dollars in the bank doesn't hurt either. Langdon settled into the plush leather seat and closed his eyes as the noise of the airport faded behind him. The U.S. Capitol was a half hour away, and he appreciated the time alone to gather his thoughts. Everything had happened so quickly today that Langdon only now had begun to think in earnest about the incredible evening that lay ahead. Arriving under a veil of secrecy, Langdon thought, amused by the prospect. Ten miles from the Capitol Building, a lone figure was eagerly preparing for Robert Langdon's arrival. CHAPTER 2 The one who called himself Mal'akh pressed the tip of the needle against his shaved head, sighing with pleasure as the sharp tool plunged in and out of his flesh. The soft hum of the electric device was addictive . . . as was the bite of the needle sliding deep into his dermis and depositing its dye. I am a masterpiece. The goal of tattooing was never beauty. The goal was change. From the scarified Nubian priests of 2000 B.C., to the tattooed acolytes of the Cybele cult of ancient Rome, to the moko scars of the modern Maori, humans have tattooed themselves as a way of offering up their bodies in partial sacrifice, enduring the physical pain of embellishment and emerging changed beings. Despite the ominous admonitions of Leviticus 19:28, which forbade the marking of one's flesh, tattoos had become a rite of passage shared by millions of people in the modern age–everyone from clean-cut teenagers to hard-core drug users to suburban housewives. The act of tattooing one's skin was a transformative declaration of power, an announcement to the world: I am in control of my own flesh. The intoxicating feeling of control derived from physical transformation had addicted millions to flesh-altering practices . . . cosmetic surgery, body piercing, bodybuilding, and steroids . . . even bulimia and transgendering. The human spirit craves mastery over its carnal shell. A single bell chimed on Mal'akh's grandfather clock, and he looked up. Six thirty P.M. Leaving his tools, he wrapped the Kiryu silk robe around his naked, six-foot-three body and strode down the hall. The air inside this sprawling mansion was heavy with the pungent fragrance of his skin dyes and smoke from the beeswax candles he used to sterilize his needles. The towering young man moved down the corridor past priceless Italian antiques–a Piranesi etching, a Savonarola chair, a silver Bugarini oil lamp. He glanced through a floor-to-ceiling window as he passed, admiring the classical skyline in the distance. The luminous dome of the U.S. Capitol glowed with solemn power against the dark winter sky. This is where it is hidden, he thought. It is buried out there somewhere. Few men knew it existed . . . and even fewer knew its awesome power or the ingenious way in which it had been hidden. To this day, it remained this country's greatest untold secret. Those few who did know the truth kept it hidden behind a veil of symbols, legends, and allegory. Now they have opened their doors to me, Mal'akh thought. Three weeks ago, in a dark ritual witnessed by America's most influential men, Mal'akh had ascended to the thirty-third degree, the highest echelon of the world's oldest surviving brotherhood. Despite Mal'akh's new rank, the brethren had told him nothing. Nor will they, he knew. That was not how it worked. There were circles within circles . . . brotherhoods within brotherhoods. Even if Mal'akh waited years, he might never earn their ultimate trust. Fortunately, he did not need their trust to obtain their deepest secret. My initiation served its purpose. Now, energized by what lay ahead, he strode toward his bedroom. Throughout his entire home, audio speakers broadcast the eerie strains of a rare recording of a castrato singing the â€Å"Lux Aeterna† from the Verdi Requiem–a reminder of a previous life. Mal'akh touched a remote control to bring on the thundering â€Å"Dies Irae.† Then, against a backdrop of crashing timpani and parallel fifths, he bounded up the marble staircase, his robe billowing as he ascended on sinewy legs. As he ran, his empty stomach growled in protest. For two days now, Mal'akh had fasted, consuming only water, preparing his body in accordance with the ancient ways. Your hunger will be satisfied by dawn, he reminded himself. Along with your pain. Mal'akh entered his bedroom sanctuary with reverence, locking the door behind him. As he moved toward his dressing area, he paused, feeling himself drawn to the enormous gilded mirror. Unable to resist, he turned and faced his own reflection. Slowly, as if unwrapping a priceless gift, Mal'akh opened his robe to unveil his naked form. The vision awed him. I am a masterpiece. His massive body was shaved and smooth. He lowered his gaze first to his feet, which were tattooed with the scales and talons of a hawk. Above that, his muscular legs were tattooed as carved pillars–his left leg spiraled and his right vertically striated. Boaz and Jachin. His groin and abdomen formed a decorated archway, above which his powerful chest was emblazoned with the double-headed phoenix . . . each head in profile with its visible eye formed by one of Mal'akh's nipples. His shoulders, neck, face, and shaved head were completely covered with an intricate tapestry of ancient symbols and sigils. I am an artifact . . . an evolving icon. One mortal man had seen Mal'akh naked, eighteen hours earlier. The man had shouted in fear. â€Å"Good God, you're a demon!† â€Å"If you perceive me as such,† Mal'akh had replied, understanding as had the ancients that angels and demons were identical–interchangeable archetypes–all a matter of polarity: the guardian angel who conquered your enemy in battle was perceived by your enemy as a demon destroyer. Mal'akh tipped his face down now and got an oblique view of the top of his head. There, within the crownlike halo, shone a small circle of pale, untattooed flesh. This carefully guarded canvas was Mal'akh's only remaining piece of virgin skin. The sacred space had waited patiently . . . and tonight, it would be filled. Although Mal'akh did not yet possess what he required to complete his masterpiece, he knew the moment was fast approaching. Exhilarated by his reflection, he could already feel his power growing. He closed his robe and walked to the window, again gazing out at the mystical city before him. It is buried out there somewhere. Refocusing on the task at hand, Mal'akh went to his dressing table and carefully applied a base of concealer makeup to his face, scalp, and neck until his tattoos had disappeared. Then he donned the special set of clothing and other items he had meticulously prepared for this evening. When he finished, he checked himself in the mirror. Satisfied, he ran a soft palm across his smooth scalp and smiled. It is out there, he thought. And tonight, one man will help me find it. As Mal'akh exited his home, he prepared himself for the event that would soon shake the U.S. Capitol Building. He had gone to enormous lengths to arrange all the pieces for tonight. And now, at last, his final pawn had entered the game. CHAPTER 3 Robert Langdon was busy reviewing his note cards when the hum of the Town Car's tires changed pitch on the road beneath him. Langdon glanced up, surprised to see where they were. Memorial Bridge already? He put down his notes and gazed out at the calm waters of the Potomac passing beneath him. A heavy mist hovered on the surface. Aptly named, Foggy Bottom had always seemed a peculiar site on which to build the nation's capital. Of all the places in the New World, the forefathers had chosen a soggy riverside marsh on which to lay the cornerstone of their utopian society. Langdon gazed left, across the Tidal Basin, toward the gracefully rounded silhouette of the Jefferson Memorial–America's Pantheon, as many called it. Directly in front of the car, the Lincoln Memorial rose with rigid austerity, its orthogonal lines reminiscent of Athens's ancient Parthenon. But it was farther away that Langdon saw the city's centerpiece–the same spire he had seen from the air. Its architectural inspiration was far, far older than the Romans or the Greeks. America's Egyptian obelisk. The monolithic spire of the Washington Monument loomed dead ahead, illuminated against the sky like the majestic mast of a ship. From Langdon's oblique angle, the obelisk appeared ungrounded tonight . . . swaying against the dreary sky as if on an unsteady sea. Langdon felt similarly ungrounded. His visit to Washington had been utterly unexpected. I woke up this morning anticipating a quiet Sunday at home . . . and now I'm a few minutes away from the U.S. Capitol. This morning at four forty-five, Langdon had plunged into dead-calm water, beginning his day as he always did, swimming fifty laps in the deserted Harvard Pool. His physique was not quite what it had been in his college days as a water-polo all-American, but he was still lean and toned, respectable for a man in his forties. The only difference now was the amount of effort it took Langdon to keep it that way. When Langdon arrived home around six, he began his morning ritual of hand-grinding Sumatra coffee beans and savoring the exotic scent that filled his kitchen. This morning, however, he was surprised to see the blinking red light on his voice-mail display. Who calls at six A.M. on a Sunday? He pressed the button and listened to the message. â€Å"Good morning, Professor Langdon, I'm terribly sorry for this early-morning call.† The polite voice was noticeably hesitant, with a hint of a southern accent. â€Å"My name is Anthony Jelbart, and I'm Peter Solomon's executive assistant. Mr. Solomon told me you're an early riser . . . he has been trying to reach you this morning on short notice. As soon as you receive this message, would you be so kind as to call Peter directly? You probably have his new private line, but if not, it's 202-329-5746.† Langdon felt a sudden concern for his old friend. Peter Solomon was impeccably well-bred and courteous, and certainly not the kind of man to call at daybreak on a Sunday unless something was very wrong. Langdon left his coffee half made and hurried toward his study to return the call. I hope he's okay. Peter Solomon had been a friend, mentor, and, although only twelve years Langdon's senior, a father figure to him ever since their first meeting at Princeton University. As a sophomore, Langdon had been required to attend an evening guest lecture by the well-known young historian and philanthropist. Solomon had spoken with a contagious passion, presenting a dazzling vision of semiotics and archetypal history that had sparked in Langdon what would later become his lifelong passion for symbols. It was not Peter Solomon's brilliance, however, but the humility in his gentle gray eyes that had given Langdon the courage to write him a thank-you letter. The young sophomore had never dreamed that Peter Solomon, one of America's wealthiest and most intriguing young intellectuals, would ever write back. But Solomon did. And it had been the beginning of a truly gratifying friendship. A prominent academic whose quiet manner belied his powerful heritage, Peter Solomon came from the ultrawealthy Solomon family, whose names appeared on buildings and universities all over the nation. Like the Rothschilds in Europe, the surname Solomon had always carried the mystique of American royalty and success. Peter had inherited the mantle at a young age after the death of his father, and now, at fifty-eight, he had held numerous positions of power in his life. He currently served as the head of the Smithsonian Institution. Langdon occasionally ribbed Peter that the lone tarnish on his sterling pedigree was his diploma from a second-rate university–Yale. Now, as Langdon entered his study, he was surprised to see that he had received a fax from Peter as well. Peter Solomon OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY THE SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION Good morning, Robert, I need to speak with you at once. Please call me this morning as soon as you can at 202-329- 5746. Peter Langdon immediately dialed the number, sitting down at his hand-carved oak desk to wait as the call went through. â€Å"Office of Peter Solomon,† the familiar voice of the assistant answered. â€Å"This is Anthony. May I help you?† â€Å"Hello, this is Robert Langdon. You left me a message earlier–â€Å" â€Å"Yes, Professor Langdon!† The young man sounded relieved. â€Å"Thank you for calling back so quickly. Mr. Solomon is eager to speak to you. Let me tell him you're on the line. May I put you on hold?† â€Å"Of course.† As Langdon waited for Solomon to get on the line, he gazed down at Peter's name atop the Smithsonian letterhead and had to smile. Not many slackers in the Solomon clan. Peter's ancestral tree burgeoned with the names of wealthy business magnates, influential politicians, and a number of distinguished scientists, some even fellows of London's Royal Society. Solomon's only living family member, his younger sister, Katherine, had apparently inherited the science gene, because she was now a leading figure in a new cutting-edge discipline called Noetic Science. All Greek to me, Langdon thought, amused to recall Katherine's unsuccessful attempt to explain Noetic Science to him at a party at her brother's home last year. Langdon had listened carefully and then replied, â€Å"Sounds more like magic than science.† Katherine winked playfully. â€Å"They're closer than you think, Robert.† Now Solomon's assistant returned to the phone. â€Å"I'm sorry, Mr. Solomon is trying to get off a conference call. Things are a little chaotic here this morning.† â€Å"That's not a problem. I can easily call back.† â€Å"Actually, he asked me to fill you in on his reason for contacting you, if you don't mind?† â€Å"Of course not.† The assistant inhaled deeply. â€Å"As you probably know, Professor, every year here in Washington, the board of the Smithsonian hosts a private gala to thank our most generous supporters. Many of the country's cultural elite attend.† Langdon knew his own bank account had too few zeros to qualify him as culturally elite, but he wondered if maybe Solomon was going to invite him to attend nonetheless. â€Å"This year, as is customary,† the assistant continued, â€Å"the dinner will be preceded by a keynote address. We've been lucky enough to secure the National Statuary Hall for that speech.† The best room in all of D.C., Langdon thought, recalling a political lecture he had once attended in the dramatic semicircular hall. It was hard to forget five hundred folding chairs splayed in a perfect arc, surrounded by thirty-eight life-size statues, in a room that had once served as the nation's original House of Representatives chamber. â€Å"The problem is this,† the man said. â€Å"Our speaker has fallen ill and has just informed us she will be unable to give the address.† He paused awkwardly. â€Å"This means we are desperate for a replacement speaker. And Mr. Solomon is hoping you would consider filling in.† Langdon did a double take. â€Å"Me?† This was not at all what he had expected. â€Å"I'm sure Peter could find a far better substitute.† â€Å"You're Mr. Solomon's first choice, Professor, and you're being much too modest. The institution's guests would be thrilled to hear from you, and Mr. Solomon thought you could give the same lecture you gave on Bookspan TV a few years back? That way, you wouldn't have to prepare a thing. He said your talk involved symbolism in the architecture of our nation's capital–it sounds absolutely perfect for the venue.† Langdon was not so sure. â€Å"If I recall, that lecture had more to do with the Masonic history of the building than–â€Å" â€Å"Exactly! As you know, Mr. Solomon is a Mason, as are many of his professional friends who will be in attendance. I'm sure they would love to hear you speak on the topic.† I admit it would be easy. Langdon had kept the lecture notes from every talk he'd ever given. â€Å"I suppose I could consider it. What date is the event?† The assistant cleared his throat, sounding suddenly uncomfortable. â€Å"Well, actually, sir, it's tonight.† Langdon laughed out loud. â€Å"Tonight?!† â€Å"That's why it's so hectic here this morning. The Smithsonian is in a deeply embarrassing predicament . . .† The assistant spoke more hurriedly now. â€Å"Mr. Solomon is ready to send a private jet to Boston for you. The flight is only an hour, and you would be back home before midnight. You're familiar with the private air terminal at Boston's Logan Airport?† â€Å"I am,† Langdon admitted reluctantly. No wonder Peter always gets his way. â€Å"Wonderful! Would you be willing to meet the jet there at say . . . five o'clock?† â€Å"You haven't left me much choice, have you?† Langdon chuckled. â€Å"I just want to make Mr. Solomon happy, sir.† Peter has that effect on people. Langdon considered it a long moment, seeing no way out. â€Å"All right. Tell him I can do it.† â€Å"Outstanding!† the assistant exclaimed, sounding deeply relieved. He gave Langdon the jet's tail number and various other information. When Langdon finally hung up, he wondered if Peter Solomon had ever been told no. Returning to his coffee preparation, Langdon scooped some additional beans into the grinder. A little extra caffeine this morning, he thought. It's going to be a long day.

Free Essays on Single-Sex Education

Learning Structure Throughout history and even today, single-sex education is a prestigious mark of social status reserved for the elite class. Despite the obvious mark of high social status, there is a controversy among educators and parents. Many educators support the claim that coeducation is the best method and should be carefully improved to offer higher quality education. However, those that favor single-sex education claim it is an effective method to eliminate sexual distractions and intimidation influenced by gender differences. These two perspectives scratch at the true issue at hand: how to provide an appropriate education for girls and boys as they move through adolescence toward adulthood. High quality education is offered when proper resources, experienced educators, and a healthy academic environment are forged together. Therefore, single-sex education will not necessarily improve the learning environment. At coeducational schools, students are able to share their diverse perspectives and talents with those of the opposite sex. The various perspectives help to introduce and educate students of different methods. In Sean McCollum's article, a male student states, "guys and girls bring diverse viewpoints to different subjects. Girls might have a very different take than the boys, say, on [author] Virginia Woolf, and it might challenge my way of thinking. Gender diversity is just as important as racial diversity. If you remove the different perspectives [of gender], you're losing a section of diversity - a big one" (18). Throughout elementary school, I observed that the two sexes have different academic trends. Boys are generally more athletic, and better at mathematics and science. Females, on the other hand, are more composed and stronger in reading, spelling and other literary disciplines. Allowing the two generally different groups to work together in a coeducational setting will improve the overall grades... Free Essays on Single-Sex Education Free Essays on Single-Sex Education Learning Structure Throughout history and even today, single-sex education is a prestigious mark of social status reserved for the elite class. Despite the obvious mark of high social status, there is a controversy among educators and parents. Many educators support the claim that coeducation is the best method and should be carefully improved to offer higher quality education. However, those that favor single-sex education claim it is an effective method to eliminate sexual distractions and intimidation influenced by gender differences. These two perspectives scratch at the true issue at hand: how to provide an appropriate education for girls and boys as they move through adolescence toward adulthood. High quality education is offered when proper resources, experienced educators, and a healthy academic environment are forged together. Therefore, single-sex education will not necessarily improve the learning environment. At coeducational schools, students are able to share their diverse perspectives and talents with those of the opposite sex. The various perspectives help to introduce and educate students of different methods. In Sean McCollum's article, a male student states, "guys and girls bring diverse viewpoints to different subjects. Girls might have a very different take than the boys, say, on [author] Virginia Woolf, and it might challenge my way of thinking. Gender diversity is just as important as racial diversity. If you remove the different perspectives [of gender], you're losing a section of diversity - a big one" (18). Throughout elementary school, I observed that the two sexes have different academic trends. Boys are generally more athletic, and better at mathematics and science. Females, on the other hand, are more composed and stronger in reading, spelling and other literary disciplines. Allowing the two generally different groups to work together in a coeducational setting will improve the overall grades...

Atticus is obviously the most important person in To Kill

Atticus is obviously the most important person in To Kill Atticus is obviously the most important person in To Kill A Mockingbird. At the beginning of the novel there is little indication of this because Scout and Jem show very little respect toward him. They are even embarrassed by his age because he doesn't hunt and fish like all of the other parents. However, we quickly see that almost everybody in Maycomb respects him. Scout and Jem only start to realize what kind of man Atticus is after he shoots the rabid dog. Atticus affects the results of some peoples lives because he is a lawyer. The people of Maycomb greatly appreciate his moral values. He sets a good example for the people of Maycomb especially Scout and Jem. The only the people disagree with his actions is when he agrees to take the Tom Robinson case. The fact that the people start to disrespect upsets him very much. This is the time when Jem and Scout really know how great their father is.Northern mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos)

Problems of trust within EU integration process Essay

Problems of trust within EU integration process - Essay Example This paper explores the connection between the level of cohesion within the trans-European political and support for integration underpinned by the presence and/or lack of trust between the countries. Discussion The initial thoughts regarding European integration fostered an idealism of uniting people by launching a community of Europeans. Nevertheless, this objective can be perceived as more pragmatic than idealistic in fostering positive transactions. The identity cleavage (manifest along north-south dimension) within the political community linked to support for the integration (Sanchez-Cuenca 2000, p.147). This statement captures the idea of a political community as the level of cohesion among individual citizens in which individuals form part of a distinct community since they have established a social-psychological attachment with one another via greater communication, and understanding. As such, the notion and practice of European unification details an example of political, c ommunity building and support for integration linked to the establishment of a European political community (Hoffman 2006, p.108). The basis of this community features the development of positive images among fellow Europeans, which widens in-group membership. Self-interest, Trust, and cooperation Public support for European integration can be regarded as either specific (utilitarian support) or diffuses. In most cases, motivations for utilitarian support are essentially self-interest in nature while diffuse flows from a shared interest motivation. Individuals frequently avails utilitarian support in cases where the state avails acceptable outputs (that can be economic, or non-economic gains to the individual); hence, the state sustain the system via citizen support. The motivation for utilitarian support mainly stems from evaluations of the EU’s capability to avail benefits and reduce any negative impacts, inclusive of the changing role of the EU integration progresses (Muno z 2011, p.551). As such, individual’s socio-economic position within the economy coupled with expected effects of market integration plays a critical role in shaping trust levels, whereby an increase in welfare provision among member countries linked to growing support, but economic downturns presently felt in Europe is linked to dramatically lowered support levels for EU integration (Kuhnhardt 2011, p.134). According to political cohesion model grounded in social identity theory, the potential of an individual supporting integration rises with greater levels of trust in fellow Europeans (Farrell 2002, p.55). Similarly, trust in EU nationalities enhances the possibility of support, more so compared to trust in the southern nationalities owing to the latter economic development. Attachment is critical as it facilitates easier rule since it incorporates legitimacy to those that govern by the governed (Munoz 2011, p.552). Indeed, hostility towards others cultures impacts on atti tudes of EU integration given that strong national attachment minimizes the possibility that an individual will back regional integration (Herrmann 1999, p.148). Hostility towards other cultures can be highlighted as a significant factor that has impeded the admission of Turkey into EU membership. The EU cites lack of progress within Turkey’s reform as the core reason that has led to lack of progress

Our company is considering entering the manufacturing market for snow Research Paper

Our company is considering entering the manufacturing market for snow skis. You have been asked to examine all material(s) that - Research Paper Example A number of companies mainly in United States and Europe are currently producing Snow skis. Throughout the history, various materials have been used in making of skis and advancement continues to be seen. Skis manufacturing have a long history. Based on archeological studies, a wooden ski was first identified in at Lake Sindor in Russia, the skiing equipment was dated to have been in use between 6300 and 5000 BC.(Burov 393). This is the earliest evidence involving the use of skis. Apart from artifacts of skis, many historical drawings and paintings have shown skiing activities where individuals use the skis. Ski construction started becoming dominant in the end of nineteenth century especially in Austria and Switzerland (Classic skis 1). The architecture of these early alpine skis was simple but they were wide and short. These characteristics enabled the skis to have high agility, hence capable of the ability to penetrate areas with deep snow and elevated areas. Since these early tim es, the designs, shape and the materials used in making skis has continued to diversify. Different types of wood have been used in the construction of the skis, varying from wood, plastics, metals or a blend of the three. The main materials in making of skis have been wood for the better part of the twentieth century. Different wooden materials have been in use depending on the place where the skis are located. Today some companies have retained the use of wood but the technology seems not attract many of the skiers. The initial wooden skis were curved using hands, to make simple skis (Wooden skis 1). In the modern setup, this design has completely changed with the adoption of a torsion box architecture that is more sophisticated and requires additional materials to make. Because of the water-properties of wood, other materials have taken its place. This has created limited use of wood in the modern context. Skis are simple skiing equipment but they are made up several parts. It is important that a ski buyer is familiar with it in order to get the best ski for the desired skiing. The base is the part of a ski that has direct contact with or faces the ground surface. Most of the skis’ bases in the modern times are made of aluminum or fiberglass. The camber is space that is evident at below the centre of the ski. Contact points are the positions of attachment between the ski and the snow without the rider imparting pressure on it. The waist is the part of the ski that is narrowest, usually appearing at the centre of the side cut. Other parts of the ski include the top or otherwise called the deck where the bindings are placed. It also has the effective edge, the tip, the shovel, and the side cut (ABC of Skiing 1). Various categories of the modern day skis are manufactured depending on the material used. The classic wooden skis are curved using hands; they are long and have thin sides, an aberration from the original design. In addition, they have a rectan gular shape but have a curve in one of the ends. Another form of skis was advanced to use steel, these are the so-called edges, and their architecture varies because of the screwed steel at its bottom. Wood and metal laminates have also been developed, the wooden laminate involves pieces of wood that are glued together, and these are flexible, stiff and are lighter. Metal laminates were initially made of aluminum but proved inefficient; they had to blend aluminum with wood. Advancing with the technology the