What Your Sales Team Wishes Every Marketer Would Start Doing

What Your Sales Team Wishes Every Marketer Would Start Doing The relationship between sales and marketing teams is often tumultuous and complicated. They share the same goals, yet they squabble and fight like children. They easily point fingers and tattletale about what the other is doing wrong. Let’s dive into the mind of a salesperson to understand how sales and marketing teams can work together, instead of against each other. Today, we’re talking to Kris Nelson, head of sales at . He shares what sales teams truly think about marketers and how the two can minimize conflict and improve collaboration. Learn how to avoid pitfalls by following ’s techniques. Sales and marketing people typically argue about bad leads, not following up on leads, etc.; there’s a stigma that sales and marketing teams just don’t get along Minimize conflict through open lines of communication to develop rapport/trust Establish credibility that you know what you’re doing as a salesperson; gain marketers’ trust by being good at selling the leads they give you Share your opinions and feedback; don’t tear down processes, improve them Define/evaluate marketing qualified leads (MQLs)/sales qualified leads (SQLs) BANT: Budget, authority, need, and timing Biggest breakdowns often occur when learning how to work together and how individuals communicate to be more efficient Growing pains you experience as your platform, solution, and functionality evolve Not all prospects are created equal; ways to handle different types of prospects Establish who owns opportunities and when; work smarter, not harder Ideal profile/persona of a customer Common issue marketers struggle with centers around planning and visibility Links: Autopilot Salesforce Write and send a review to receive a care package If you liked today’s show, please subscribe on iTunes to The Actionable Content Marketing Podcast! The podcast is also available on SoundCloud, Stitcher, and Google Play. Quotes by Kris Nelson: â€Å"You’ll certainly find a lot of finger pointing at times, when it comes to sales and marketing.† â€Å"We’re kind of all on the same team. Let’s make sure were working together vs. working against each other.† â€Å"(Develop) open lines of communication to develop that trust that everyone’s working the right way.† â€Å"You’re really looking to not necessarily tear down the process, but more so look to improve it.†

Announcing the Worlds Ultimate Book Title Generator Reedsy

Announcing the Worlds Ultimate Book Title Generator Reedsy Announcing the World's Ultimate Book Title Generator Titling a book is a bit similar to picking a Fantasy Football team: you're never sure which one’s the perfect fit and you end up trashing sixty combinations in the end, anyway. But the good news is that you’re not alone if you’re stressed about your book title. Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice started out as First Impressions. Ernest Hemingway spent months discarding titles before deciding on A Sun Also Rises. Then there was George Orwell, who once planned to title the now-iconic 1984 as The Last Man in Europe. We’re familiar with the struggle, which is why we’re pleased to announce our book title generator: a resource for anyone who’s in need of some title inspiration. It’s got something for everyone, whether you’re dabbling in fantasy, mystery, romance, science fiction, and thriller. Best of all, it stores 10,000+ titles, so you’ll never run out of potential titles again!service@reedsy.com!Any questions about ti tling your book? Leave them in the comments below.

How Non-conventional interfaces such as the Wii and Kinect represent Essay

How Non-conventional interfaces such as the Wii and Kinect represent the future of Games - Essay Example The gaming consoles that are solely non-conventional interface based are primarily introduced by three technological companies: Nintendo Wii, PlayStation’s Move and Microsoft’s Kinect for Xbox 360. Wii was released by Nintendo on the 19th of November 2006. The distinguishing feature of Wii is its wireless controller called the Wii remote which was an imaginative introduction to the gaming world. IT was distinct at that point in time because the Wii remote was a handheld pointing device that detected movement in three dimensions. This design allowed the users of the console to approach the game in two ways: one being the traditional use of the buttons and the second being the new method of using physical gestures in order to control movements in the game.(Guardian 2012) PlayStation’s Move was introduced in the markets in September 2010. Move was motion-sensing game controller platform that was based on the technology used by the Nintendo Wii. The main part of the PlayStation Move technology is the Motion Controller with its lit sphere. This Motion controller is a wand controller that allows the user and the player to connect with the game using the controller that interacted with the PlayStation Move Eye camera through motion and position. The Eye camera tracks the position and motion of the wand with the help of inertial sensors embedded in it. Microsoft’s Kinect for Xbox 360 can easily be considered the latest revolution in the non-conventional interface gaming. Kinect has taken the world by storm as the motion sensing input device that works together with the Xbox 360 gaming console. The device is basically a web-cam style device that detects the body motion and gestures without the need of a game controller. By using an  infrared  projector and camera and a special microchip to track the movement of objects and individuals in three

Business Law Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Business Law - Assignment Example Peter accepted the price of $ 190 and Mary took the bicycle away. The case scenario deals with the conditions surrounding the formation of valid business contracts. A contract is defined as an agreement between two parties that creates legal obligation to the two parties to perform or abstain from performing a certain obligation or action (Farnsworth, 1991). A contract must entail an offer by one party and acceptance of the offer by the other party. The advertisement placed in the local newspaper by Peter is not an offer but an invitation to treat. Peter is inviting interested persons to make an offer for the purchase of the bicycle. Accordingly, advertisements are classified as invitations to treat since the seller can refuse to sell the item at price if it is mistakenly marked (Blum, 2007). The advertisement is displayed to a larger number of people with an undefined way of selecting whom to sell the bicycle. For instance, the advertisement does not clarify whether to sell the bicy cle to the first person to accept the labeled price. It this case, the advertisement is geared at generating interests and prolonging negotiations towards the formation of the contract (Stone, 2005). After the invitation to treat, Jonathan makes an offer to through a telephone to purchase the racing bicycle at a price of $ 160. However, rules of contract stipulate that the subject matter of contract must be present at the time of making the offer. According to the Uniform Commercial code,

Bmw Swot Analysis Essay Example for Free

Bmw Swot Analysis Essay Logo-BMW’s white-and-blue logo is recognizable worldwide, and recalls the company’s start as an aircraft engine manufacturer. It symbolizes a pilot’s view through a propeller as alternating white and blue segments. †¢Most successful multi-brand premium car manufacturer-BMW has three brands, BMW, MINI, and Rolls-Royce. They delivered 141,952 BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce automobiles in 2007 and sales increased by 7. 4% from the previous year. †¢Super luxury Rolls Royce car-The Rolls-Royce phantom holds the number one position in the super-luxury car segment. The Phantom was launched in 1993, and the final assembly, as well as all-wood and leatherwork are custom made for each customers individual specifications. The plant where they are produced, the Goodwood plant in England, contains only two robots to paint the space frame body; all other work is done by hand, in keeping with the Rolls-Royce tradition. †¢Spends one of the highest revenues on R;D-BMW Group employs about 8,000 people worldwide within the research ; development (R;D) network and has invested millions of dollars over the years. They employ engineers, designers, model builders, computer experts, and scientists of various disciplines FIZ co-ordinates and optimize research activities across the group to create the BMW cars of the future. †¢Brand-BMW ranked in the top 20 most recognized global brands. BMW is now the only multi-brand automaker that utilizes a pure, premium brand strategy. The objective behind this strategy is to generate higher income per vehicle on the basis of products with a high intrinsic value and a strong brand image. Their brand ranked number 15 in 2006. Longevity-Bavarian Motor Works (BMW) was formed in 1916 after two small aircraft engine manufacturers merged. In 1923, BMW began to build motorcycles, then its first car in 1928. †¢Driving School-Many manufacturers have associations with driving schools; BMW runs its own. The BMW Performance Center, adjacent to the BMW Manufacturing facility in Spartanburg, attracts owners and prospects from around the country for an ultimate br and experience. †¢Sales-BMW is one among the leading players in the premium cars segment. It achieved a record sales volume of 1,373,970 units in 2006. BMW is ranked among the ten largest car producers globally. Awards/Recognition-Reflecting BMWs commitment to developing quality and innovative products, the company has been honored with several awards in the past. For example, BMW was presented with the Design Award of the Federal Republic of Germany in February 2006 for the BMW 6 Series Coupe and Convertible models. Presented by the German Design Council, the award was the highest official German design award. Following this, the MINI model of the company won the Golden Steering Wheel 2006 award in seven out of 15 categories, ten days ahead of its official market launch in November 2006. Formula 1-BMW won its first Formula 1 championship in 1983 using a four cylinder, 1. 5-liter production based engine. Of course it was turbocharged and could develop well over 1,000 horsepower, some say over 1,500 for short periods of time. BMW continues to field a Formula 1 team because it provides the ultimate in competition and thus the ultimate in learning for BMW. †¢Excellence through quality innovation-BMW Group’s success is its strategic focus on developing customer-friendly innovations, coupled with an approach to innovations management that is unique within the motor industry Customize your own car-BMW has the option of seeing a sample of the car you’d like by selecting different options such as the color of interior design and exterior design, the wheels, the model etc. †¢Intelligent processes-the COSP(Customer oriented sales and production process) bases production on the customer’s customized version and not by company standards. They employ 70,000 workers in 23 different locations to build the customized cars. A customer can change or alter the options and style of the car right before it goes into production. †¢Environment-friendly-BMW considers environmental and recycling requirements. They use recycled products to build cars. They have environmental standards for all the plants throughout the world. They build cars that lower the amount of fuel consumption. †¢Superior technology and development of new products BMW is doing this is by developing a hybrid engine as part of a global alliance. The aim of this development is known as a â€Å"two-mode† hybrid vehicle, combining a combustion engine with two electronic engines. This design is aimed towards improving the performance, fuel consumption, emissions and range of conventional hybrid vehicles. The primary goal of modern hybrid systems is to save fuel. †¢Commitment to customers BMWs’ main goal is to focus on getting the product to the customer as quickly as possible. BMW has a program known as the â€Å"Customer oriented sales and production process. † This way, the customer is able to make any last minute changes to the equipment and accessories they’ve ordered shortly before the vehicle goes to assembly-without delaying the date of delivery. †¢Design Work design process of building vehicles is done by California Innovation Triangle. This state of the art firm uses computers to help aid the process of design. The highlight of this facility is what the industry has begun to call â€Å"the model plate. † The model plate is a measurement system that transfers the contours of the object being scanned to computers where a 3D model is produced. The designers can then go in and make changes to the object through the computer in order to make the part as suitable for its intended use as possible. What makes this machine so rare is the size of object that can be scanned. The model plate can scan very large object, up to the size of an omnibus. With the use of this technology BMW and California Innovation Triangle are able to layout and design entire vehicles piece by piece. †¢Involvement in community South Africa serves as good example of BMW’s social commitment. BMW works to bring change from within by enacting equality in the workface, and investing not only in the business, but also in education, healthcare and recreational facilities for employees. The factory at Rosslyn, near Pretoria, evolved from a CKD facility to serve the old South Africa, into a sophisticated facility that is now part of BMW’s international production-distribution network. This risk BMW took provided South Africa the ability to export. And in 2002, the South African factory captured the J. D. Power and Associates gold award for initial production quality. †¢Environmental commitment BMW factories meet the demanding ISO 14001 environmental standards worldwide. This is not only true for the oldest BMW factory in the city of Munich and at 10 year old American plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina, but also with new factories in emerging and less regulated markets like Thailand and Russia. Excellence through quality innovation-BMW Group’s success is its strategic focus on developing customer-friendly innovations, coupled with an approach to innovations management that is unique within the motor industry. From features like the twin-flat motorcycle engine, V-shaped overhead valves, and hemispherical combustion chambers introduced on the classics of the 1920s and 30s, to modern technology including ABS brakes, Xenon lights, smart airbags, the head protection system, Valvetronic and iDrive, BMW constantly reinforces its credibility as a premium manufacturer Management-Chief executive, Norbert Reithofer, who took office on September 1, will be seeking to build on the Bavarians’ global momentum. Reithofer has a brilliant track record as head of production, such as combining lean manufacturing and Japanese-like continual improvement with benchmark flexibility for a premium automaker which gives BMW a big cost advantage over leading competition and making it tough for competitors like Mercedes to gain any ground. †¢Young customer base-With the Mini and series 3, BMW has a significant dvantage of gaining younger and first time purchasers over other luxury brands. The youth market is critically important because if a young buyer chooses a particular brand for a first car, he or she is more than likely to buy others with the same name plate as they mature and move up in the market. Even though buyers in the 16-35 age category only accounted for a small percentage of overall sales it is important to gain there sales because as the old marketing principle goes it is easier to keep a customer than to gain new ones. WEAKNESSES †¢New Models-Is it really worth developing new models? It entails expenses along with shipping prices. Each day BMW is striving to produce and develop new cars to satisfy the customers. In the long run, who actually knows if these cars are going to be a big hit. The company might actually be wasting their time and money in producing a model that will not be worthwhile. When developing and producing cars it is important to decipher whether or not the car will become one that is popular on the market. †¢BMW’s heavy cost German base. -More and more competitors are shifting product development activities to lower cost countries. BMW could be forced to negotiate a way to maintain cost competitiveness and its reputation for German engineering excellence made in different countries. †¢Price-Another weakness of the BMW industry is getting the customers to buy these cars. Yes, the hybrid vehicle will save you fuel, but it will be so expensive that it might be hard trying to find customers to buy them at such a high price. Another reason the price of the vehicle is so high is because they are shipped across the United States and also come from a factory in Germany. The expenses of the vehicles and the shipping rate are two key weaknesses that many companies must work with. †¢Motorcycle Sales-The European market accounts for more than 60% of BMWs motorcycle sales on an average. The group is heavily dependent on this region with Germany being one of the largest markets for its motorcycles business. With the demand in Germany being highly inconsistent in the past six years, this high dependence on a particular region can have an adverse effect on the companys sales, during periods of demand stagnation in the region. For example, BMWs motorcycle sales in Germany declined by 9. % to 24,064 units in 2005, which further declined to 23,617 units in 2006. †¢Corporate image-too serious ad tradition-bound. †¢Hybrid Prices-These types of cars will save you a lot of money on fuel, but the problem BMW is having trouble with is pricing the hybrids. It would be hard for BMW to find customers that would buy the hybrids at a high cost. †¢Ship ment Cost-Most of the cars are shipped from Germany to the United States. The shipping cost would affect the price of the car. This is one the expenses that the BMW company’s would have to deal with in pricing their vehicles for the customers satisfaction. Online Strategies-BMW is not winning the â€Å"information war† in the market place about its own customers, their attitudes, complaints, wishes, etc. BMW is not operating in a manner, which acts to â€Å"include† its customers including their meeting and information sharing sources. Existing online efforts do not meet consumer needs. There is a lack of â€Å"human intelligence† and an over-reliance on visual marketing in BMW’s on-line strategies. †¢Dealer Networks-BMW’s dealer network is in the midst of great change. Overall basic product margins are down while business infrastructure requirements are up. Many dealers do not feel that the field reps are there to help them build their business but rather just to comment arbitrarily and deliver business change requirements from BMW headquarters. There is a problem with two way information flow in the distributor-dealer relationship. Dealers feel that they are not being listened to and are also not being serviced in critical areas of their business by BMWNA staff. †¢Management-Dealers want to be able to discuss key elements of their business given their limited capital resources. Given the size and nature of he motorcycle market many dealers feel that BMW’s current policies are overly restrictive to the healthy development of their business and that BMWNA should operate in a more flexible manner which could be seen as co-development of a dealer’s franchise not just top-down management by memo. †¢Changing Consumer Environments-Also, as it appears that BMW’s dealer strategy is to move to larger centralized â €˜corporate style’ stores, many of the smaller ‘mom and pop’ dealerships that historically or currently serve a key segment of the BMW owners/riders are being alienated and/or eliminated. By following this policy of upgrade or be eliminated BMW is removing both the habitat in which the consumers live as well as the knowledge base and support structure from which they engage in BMW oriented motorcycle commerce. OPPORTUNITIES †¢India-The Company has been launching several new initiatives and has been widening its product base since 2001. The company expects ample growth opportunities in India, and it is keen on expanding its bases in these countries. †¢The expansion of the euro. -In May 2004 more countries adopted the euro making it the world’s biggest trading block. This offers ample opportunities for BMW to leverage its strong European position in the premium car segment to gather more market share across new and expanding markets. †¢A Chinese luxury car market-Rigorous attempt to get into the Chinese luxury car market signifies an increase in the earnings of the company over the coming years. China already ranks as the third largest market for BMW’s 7 Series luxury limousines. BMW predicts that vigorous growth will place China among the company’s seven largest markets in a few more years. †¢Diesel Power-BMW foresees an immense opportunity in the diesel-powered cars segment. Tourism-the Zentrum building is located in South Carolina. This gives tourists the opportunity to take a look at the history of BMW, also at the cars, the speed and innovation free of charge. It is the only BMW museum in the United States. It is also located next to the only BMW manufacturing plant in the United States. BMW should take a look into bu ilding more museums throughout the world. †¢Expansion-although BMW is very successful they should think about expanding their manufacturing plants throughout the United States and other countries. They only have one location in the United States which is in South Carolina. †¢Have the best and most current technology-It is important for BMW to have the best research and development staff where they can keep the company up-to-date with technology. With the latest technology and supplies, BMW can create the best cars the fastest and most efficient way possible. †¢Broaden information sharing -BMW should broaden information sharing amongst their dealers, distributors, and factory. This will improve product repair knowledge resulting in improved customer service and satisfaction. Improve and run their business based on their business plan-Improving the capabilities of dealers to sell more BMW products in the marketplace through refinement of their business plan †¢Utilize the Internet more-Multiply the value of the ‘human capital’ in the BMW network by â€Å"e-knowledge† and â€Å"e-training. † †¢Better training of their salespeople-Deve lopment and implementation of business practices that harness the best of each individual dealer and make their unique market position/skills a valuable part of the entire network. Partnering with Sirius Radio-In 2005, BMW partnered with Sirius Satellite Radio to promote its new 3-serious car for 44 days. BMW used Sirius to promote its new car because the radio station had 1. 24 million subscribers and still growing. On the final day of promotion it broadcasted a live concert with various artists. †¢Acquiring Volvo-The chairman of BMW, Dr. Norbert Reithofer, is plan on expanding the business with a fourth brand name, Volvo. Although sales of Volvo has been slow in the North American and Europe, its brand name focuses mainly on safety and its fashion appeal is not attractive to the eye. BMW could help out by acquiring the company to make it a more global brand, also in the Asian Market. †¢Apple iPhone-The new Apple iPhone is one of the next best things of phones. It is a touch screen phone with a built in iPod. This would give BMW the opportunity to integrate the iPhone into their cars. †¢China market-An opportunity for BMW is the increase in the luxury automobile market in china. The most significant growth of the luxury market can be attributed to Jiangsu province which has created an 84 percent increase. Next to Jiangsu is Guangdong, making 79 percent recorded growth in the market. On the other hand, Zhejiang province also bagged a 54 percent increase. THREATS †¢Demand Patterns-BMW operates in an industry that is prone to cyclical demand patterns due to consumer wants and needs. †¢Currency-Any unfavorable trend in Euro valuation against major currencies can hurt BMWs performance. †¢Fuel Efficiency-While BMW continues to work on high performance, clean and efficient gasoline engines, the company is also committed to a green-house-gas- free hydrogen powered vehicle as a long-term strategy. At this time we have an active development program that will enable us still to bring to market a full size automobile, propelled with hydrogen, before the end of the decade. †¢The continuing decline of the dollar against the euro-This threatens to undercut BMW’s top-line thereby tempering its profitability. The euro to one-dollar ratio has dropped from 0. 702626 euros to 0. 690376 euros from October to November. †¢The rising price of raw materials -Materials such as steel threaten to offset the company’s earnings. BMW continues to face the rising cost of raw materials as the key challenge to maintain and improve their growth performance. The annual average market price of aluminum, copper and plastic rose by 34%, 76% and 13%, respectively, in 2006. Likewise, the price of industrial raw materials also increased by more than 30% in 2006. †¢Rising gas prices – with a weak U. S. market, steadily rising gas prices and gaining popularity in non-luxury vehicles there is the temptation to move down market.

The Birthmark Essay -- essays research papers fc

 A Story of Love and Science A Story of Love and Science   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Nathaniel Hawthorne is a nineteenth century American Novelist whose works are deeply concerned with the ethical problems of sin, punishment, and atonement (Adams 168). The New England writer also handles the romantic theme very well and is a master of historical fiction. Hawthorne was a descendant of one of the judges at the Salem witch trials, and he set many of his works in Puritan New England and during early crises in American history (Encarta).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬Å"The Birthmark,† like many of Hawthorne’s stories deals with the relationship between men and women. It is a love story where the quest for perfection leads to a tragic end. The protagonist, a scientist named Aylmer, attempts to attain perfection for his new wife Georgiana, by removing a birthmark resembling a small hand from her left cheek. Written in 1843, it was Hawthorne’s first work of fiction right after he married his wife, Sophia (Encarta). This adds depth to the story in a way that Hawthorne can relate to it in a more direct manner. It was written during the Old Manse period in Hawthorne’s life (July 1842 to October 1845) when he was becoming interested in the place in society of the artist. In â€Å"The Birthmark† Hawthorne finishes by giving credit to the flaws and imperfections of human nature.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The story shows Hawthorne’s opinion that some things that were created by God cannot be changed. This can be seen from an article in the American Magazine of Useful and Entertaining Knowledge in 1836 where he stated â€Å"the Creator has absolutely debarred mankind from all inventions and discoveries, the results of which would counter act the general laws, that He has established over human affairs,† (Adams 169).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In â€Å"The Birthmark,† Hawthorne uses the obsession of the scientist Aylmer who wishes to combine the love he has for science with the love for his wife. Aylmer sees the birthmark on his wife’s cheek of an imperfection and a symbol of man’s mortality. Aylmer is described in terms of high praise, praise for his aspiration toward the infinite, for his pure and honorable love that will accept nothing less than perfection (Jones 193). Aylmer’s effort in removi... ...st die, as Georgiana does.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In â€Å"The Birthmark† Hawthorne presents a love story that brings forth the larger idea of man’s quest for perfection. He concludes that the perfect love and the perfect wife cannot be attained through man’s own actions. Hawthorne used his knowledge of Transcendentalism to put forth the idea that man could use his knowledge and abilities to overcome nature. The story’s tragic ending shows that science cannot change man’s basic nature and that some things should not be messed with. Love and science sometimes do not mix. Works Cited Adams, Richard. N.p.: n.p., 1958. Rpt. in Short Story Criticism. Ed. Sheila Fitzgerald. Vol. 3. Detroit: Gale, 1989. 169-170 Hawthorne, Nathaniel. The Celestrial Railroad and Other Stories. New York: Signet, 1963. Jones, Madison. â€Å"Variations on a Hawthorne Theme.† Studies in   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Short Fiction. 15.3 (1978): 227-83 â€Å"Nathaniel Hawthorne.† Microsoft Encarta Encylopedia 99. CD- ROM. N.p.: n.p, 1999. Wohlpart, James. â€Å"Allegories of Art, Allegories of Heart: Hawthorne’s ‘Egotism’ and ‘The Christmas Banquet’.† Studies in Short Fiction. 31.3 (1994): 449-95.

A Halloween Night Essay

The town next to ours was a little mining town called Cheshire. Despite it being a productive and rich mining town, it was well known for the Legend of the Witches Circle. It was said that twelve witches used to live here. At the struck of midnight, they would fly around the town, creating nuisance and scaring off anyone in their path. After many deaths, people fled the town, fearing falling victim to the evil witches. Mining was halted and the town was abandoned. No one has returned to Cheshire ever since. The mood of Halloween was in the air. It was the end of October and large pumpkins were being put out for sale at the farms. Everyone in Saintsbury was getting ready for Halloween. Statues of goblins and evil witches could be seen everywhere. It was finally here, Halloween night. The streetlights were not working. Instead, the faint glows of candlelight lined the street. I was a bit old to go trick or treating; I had better plans with my friend. Jack, a good friend of mine had planned for us to pay a little visit to Cheshire, to prove to ourselves right that the legend of the witches were just a myth. I met up with him downtown and we got what we needed, and set out on the dark winding path through the forest leading into Cheshire. The noise began to slowly fade away. The forest was strangely quiet that night. I could hear myself breathing heavily. We walked arm in arm, guided by the dim light from the small torch. It was a true Halloween night. The full moon was shining through the bare branches casting eerie shadows on our path as we walked. A cool breeze was blowing sending leaves dancing messily across the forest floor. I remember thinking to myself that this night was truly the kind that you imagine when you listen to a scary tale. Holding tightly to the person next to you, just like I was holding Jack as we walked that evening. The path we walked on would take us past the cemetery and end at the crest above Devil’s Den, where it is believed the witches used to slay their victims every night. We chose this path because of it being the night it was. We were feeling young and out for an adventure. An adventure that led us into the heart of the townà ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½s legendary witches’ circle. As we walked past the cemetery a group of mischievous boys came jumping out from behind some tombstones and trees. My heart was in my throat and I felt Jack give a startled jump. â€Å"Oi, what the hell do you think youà ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½re doing!† shouted Jack. They ran away laughing, off to find their next victim. My I was still looking terrified and when Jack turned to see if I was all right, he started laughing too. Then jokingly, I sent him stumbling backwards over a log into a big pile of leaves from a nearby oak tree. I ran and found a good spot to hide, to do some scaring of my own. I had settled in behind a rock above Devil’s Den and feeling pleased with myself, waited for the sound of crunching leaves. I listened carefully, but what broke the silence was not the sound I expected. From below, in Devil’s Den, I heard chanting. I slowly turned around to see who or what it was that was chanting. Suddenly, from behind, an arm grabbed me. I opened my mouth to scream, but it was quickly covered by a second hand. As I struggled to get loose I wondered what had happened to Jack and if I was going to die tonight. Reality set in when I heard Jack’s voice whispering my name. When I finally settled down, he whispered for me to be quiet before he released his hand from over my mouth. As he released his hold, my eyes drifted down to the strange sight below. † Oh my God!!!† I said. In the valley below, surrounding a large stone altar, stood twelve figures. They were dressed in black gowns with hoods that hung over their faces, giving them an eerie appearance. As they stood encircling the altar their soft chanting could be heard. Soon my body was covered with goose bumps as their voices softly filled the night air. From the cover of the night we knelt watching in silence. Then there was silence as a man leading a goat appeared out of the darkness. They tied the goat to the altar while a new figure entered the light. In his hand was a large dagger that he carried to the top of the altar then knelt and chanted softly. Slowly he rose, raising the dagger high into the air, then with a loud cry he lowered the blade into the screaming goats chest. With ease he sliced open the goat while it cried and squirmed. Then, as if it was an orange he began to peel its skin from the body. When he had finished he held the head and skin high into the air as if he was praying to his god. He called for power as he placed the goat’s head in place. The skin was still wet with blood and it clung to his back. Blood covered his face as it ran from the goat’s head before falling to the ground. Then he turned and spoke to the darkness. A young woman entered into the light and in her arms she carried a small child. There was no expression on her face as she placed the child upon the altar before turning and walking back into the darkness. The child laid cradled in the carcass of the goat as the leader fell to his knees at the side of the altar. The other twelve, still encircling the altar, continued the chanting. Their cries became louder and louder. Suddenly there was silence as the leader stood. He raised the dagger into the air, a cold dark expression on his face as he again prayed to his god. Just as he was ready to plunge the blade into the child, a scream pierced the night. Their eyes searched the darkness for the intruder and soon all eyes were on me. The eyes of the Death Leader locked into mine. Then all went black. I woke up with the sensation of heat against my skin. I looked around and saw twelve black figures standing around me. My hands were tied back to a pole and around me was a big ring of fire. Barely opening my eyes, because of the intense heat, I looked for Jack. I could not find him. Then I saw it. On the altar, lay the body of a young man. I tried to stand on my toe to see is he was all right. I felt sick. His body was covered with blood. A deep cut ran straight down his chest. I turned away, not being able to bear what I just saw. I looked up to the figure sitting next to the altar. It was terrifying. It was the most hideous face I had ever seen. It had a pale yellow skin and had holes for eyes. He stared at me coldly and stood up before reaching for the dagger, soaking in blood, from the altar. I got terrified and struggled to free myself, to no avail. I let out a scream, as he raised the dagger into the air, his cold eyes staring into mine. I held my eyes shut, waiting for it. Then all went silent. I opened my eyes, much to my relief. Everything was gone, my hands were untied. The rays of sun, arising amidst the clouds, broke the darkness. The altar and fire was gone too.

The Arguments of the Class Theorists

Class theorists argue that class provides the basic structure of society and is also the chief cause of the inequality of modern societies. The hierarchy of the Australia class system consists of a â€Å"ruling† upper class, a â€Å"white-collar† middle class, and a â€Å"laboring† working class. There is enormous inequality between the class groups and especially between the upper- and middle-classes and the working-class. What class you belong to plays a determining role in what sort of life you lead. Those at the top of the class structure typically seem to have more power, more wealth, more opportunities, and more control over their lives than those at the bottom. They also have a greater impact on society and use this advantage to manipulate society to serve their values and suit their needs. This is no where more evident than in the social institution of education. Education is one of the great dividers amongst classes. The school you go to often determines what sort of qualifications you obtain, what job you get and, thus, how much money you earn and what class you move into. Education is a means in which individuals seek social mobility. Parents realized this long ago and some struggle to send their children to private schools to give them a better chance of succeeding in the class hierarchy. Other children, typically from working-class backgrounds, are victims of low expectations, both from their parents and internally, and leave school as soon as they can, moving into low-paid jobs near the bottom of the social ladder. Whereas, many upper-class and middle-class pupils regard tertiary education as the natural way to their future careers. John Germov states that the education system is a product of a class society and that every society must reproduce itself using its social institutions. Schools accomplish this reproduction of the class system through ideological hegemony, where the dominant belief system, that of the upper-class and even middle-class, is the overriding principle underlying the curriculum and agenda of the educational system. The dominant values, those of the upper-class, are therefore, transmitted and spread through education. This overemphasis of the upper-class ethos tends to alienate working-class children giving way to a feeling of intimidation and eventually it yields resistance to and resignation from schooling. Cultural capital- the knowledge, skills, and beliefs essential for school success- is also an important factor in educational merit. As stated earlier, those at the top of the class hierarchy usually have more wealth and more opportunities. This puts them at a straightaway advantage to those at the lower end of the hierarchy. Cultural capital varies through the classes, as is evident by the greater number of upper- and middle-class children attending tertiary institutions and the high number of working-class dropouts. The pursuit of a classless society is an important gauge of how much progress we have made in diminishing the adverse impact of class upon our lives. The idea of a classless society is unlikely to ever be achieved, but a serious critique of class may help to create a more equal society, especially in the realm of the social institution of education.

Calling All Cat Cuddlers! You Can Now Cuddle Cats for a Living!

Calling All Cat Cuddlers! You Can Now Cuddle Cats for a Living! You can getting paid to cuddle cats? And who said miracles don’t exist! In Dublin, Ireland, there is an opportunity to  become a professional cat-cuddler. Yes, you read that correctly- a professional cat-cuddler. Well, you know†¦ until there is a more official title for this position.  I know this job may sound too purrrfect to be true. But before you make that move to Ireland, here’s what you need to know. Source [giphy]Justcats is Dublin’s first and only dedicated feline veterinary clinic, meaning there is a â€Å"no dogs allowed† atmosphere. The clinic is looking for a candidate to hold cats and embrace them during their visits to make it more comfortable for both the owner and their beloved feline.According to the clinic, the ideal candidate must have gentle hands capable of petting and stroking cats for long periods of time, be soft-spoken, and be capable of cat whispering to calm the nerves of some of their patients. Since cat purring can te ll you a lot about the cat’s feelings, having the ability to understand the different types of purring makes you stand out from the rest of the applicants.The clinic is â€Å"considering a veterinary intern, a nurse position or a nurse’s assistant and their title will be appropriate to their role,†Ã‚  Veterinarian Aoife Caulfield told HuffPost.  Cuddling the four-legged family member pays between 20,000 euros and 25,000 euros (about $22,000 to $28,000).Source: [giphy]Not bad considering you are getting paid to snuggle with your  BFF!

Homer Simpson Quotes on Beer

Homer Simpson Quotes on Beer Homer Simpson and beer are inseparable. Homers goofy attitude towards beer lends a whole new perspective to alcohol. Stupidity Homer no function beer well without. Insults Youve been rubbing my nose in it since I got here! Your family is better than my family, your beer comes from farther away than my beer, you and your son like each other, your wifes butt is higher than my wifes butt! You make me sick! Opinions Beer... Now theres a temporary solution. Opinions I like my beer cold... my TV loud... and my homosexuals flaming. Opinions Ah, the college road trip. What better way to spread beer-fueled mayhem? Opinions You must love this country more than I love a cold beer on a hot Christmas morning. Opinions Ive figured out an alternative to giving up my beer. Basically, we become a family of traveling acrobats. Opinions Bart, a woman is like beer. They look good, they smell good, and youd step over your own mother just to get one! Parenting Aw, theres only one can of beer left and its Barts. Parenting Now son, you dont want to drink beer. Thats for Daddies, and kids with fake IDs. Wise Cracks All right, brain. You dont like me and I dont like you, but lets just do this and I can get back to killing you with beer.

Pablo Picasso's Illustrations of Balzac's The Unknown Masterpiece Essay

Pablo Picasso's Illustrations of Balzac's The Unknown Masterpiece - Essay Example The essay "Pablo Picasso's Illustrations of Balzac's The Unknown Masterpiece" explores Pablo Picasso’s illustration of Balzac’s â€Å"The unknown masterpiece†. It is an edition of a short story by Honore de Balzac. This perception is dependent on the point from which the painting is viewed. The painter is obsessed with his work in which he has considerably spent a long time struggling to complete. Surprisingly, two painters who have been secretly admiring this painter’s work are dumbfounded as they cannot get a clear picture of what the work is. Pablo Picasso, a widely known Spanish painter and sculptor, is fascinated by the mystery behind this art work rendering homage to this kind of creativity. And as part of his printmaking etchings, he writes an accompaniment illustrating the Balzac’s work â€Å"The unknown masterpiece.† Studies done by various scholars reveal that Picasso’s works have had great impacts on the styles of many artis ts even to date. This paper discusses Pablo Picasso’s illustrations of Balzac’s â€Å"The Unknown Masterpiece† of 1931. Honore de Balzac’s â€Å"the unknown masterpiece† featured in the seventeenth century at a French studio in Paris. First published in 1831 by Balzac in a Parisian newspaper â€Å"L’Artiste†, the story reveals a lesson expounding on the statement â€Å"beneath the lines of every book is a face†. In this story, a young artist by the name Nicolas Poussin and his guide Francoise Porbus arrive in the studio of the era’s renowned painter, Master Frenhofer.