Image as Icon: Recognising the Enigma’ by Tracey Warr

Image as Icon: Recognising the Enigma’ by Tracey Warr In Tracey Warr’s essay, ‘Image as Icon: Recognising the Enigma’, she identifies and discusses four discourses of performance photography–the document, the icon, the simulacrum and the live act–and what is at stake in these discourses is the ‘truth’. What she describes as ‘contradictory’ and contentious between the discourses, I believe what she has shown is the different ways in which photography is utilised and read as a medium for documenting and presenting a live performance. Although these photographs may offer themselves as an accurate record of the event, or the complete ‘truth’, Warr shows how incomplete, though necessary, photography is in depicting the experience of the live performance. Adrian George offers a loose definition of live performance art as primarily consisting of a living ‘human presence–a body (or bodies) in space and at a specific moment, or for a definite period’. What is difficult about performance art is that most people expect to see ‘art’ in a traditional sense, which is an art object. Performances do not have a ‘fixed referential basis’, much like Robert Smithson’s earthwork, Spiral Jetty 1970, whose spiral formation no longer exists physically due to erosion by the sea. Because performances and works like Spiral Jetty ‘continue to exist only through an accumulation of documentation and discourse’ documenting these works become very important in placing them in a historical context. In Warr’s discourses of performance photography as the document and the simulacra, we have what appear to be two polarising discourses–the ‘real’ evidence and the simulation; however, her development of both discourses arrives at similar conclusions about truth telling. Warr defines the discourse of the document as ‘the image perform[ing] the role of materialist evidence and proof–showing us exactly what happened so we can ‘know’ it’ while the discourse of the simulacra ‘explores fakery, the performative and representation’. According to Susan Sontag, unlike writing or even paintings and drawings which are perceived as ‘interpretations’, the photograph is perceived not so much as ’statements about the world so much as pieces of it, miniatures of reality that anyone can make or acquire’. However, both Warr and Sontag debunk the myth that the photograph is objective or factual. The perfo rmance is filtered through the photographer and camera through the process of framing, cropping and composing the photograph. Then there is the process of choosing the best photographs to represent the entire performance, which Warr points out are usually the most composed photographs. In addition to this process of reduction, the experience of ’sound, time, space, [and] often the audience’ are missing from the photograph. The photograph as document is exposed, so to speak, as being like the simulacra, a mere representation or a simulation–the document is a construction. In reference to Hans Namuth’s photographs depicting Jackson Pollock painting, Fred Orton and Griselda Pollocks’ pose the question: ‘how far does the photographer document what happened and how far does he or she create the ‘documented’ phenomenon?’ Although Namuth’s photographs can be read as historical documents of the painter, Warr points out that these images are actually ‘Namuth and Pollock staging Pollock’. Another question that could be asked is how much does the artist perform for the audience and how much does the artist perform for the camera? Many performances during the 60s and 70s are ‘hybrid performance photography’ which were performed especially for the camera as opposed to a live audience. This kind of performance photography subverts the function of the photograph as an objective, unobtrusive document as the hybrid performance photography blatantly uses the camera as an accomplice to stage its performance. Hybrid performance photography also subverts the central idea in the discourse of the live act. In this discourse, documentation is relegated to a mere ’subsidiary status’ while the live performance itself is ‘primary, cathartic, witnessed and ontological’. Here, documentation is supposed to be as ‘unobtrusive’ as possible because the most important aspect is the interaction between the performer and the audience, an aspect that comes from the traditions of the theatre. However, trying to capture the experience of the interaction between the performer and the audience is problematic as not only is the photograph incomplete as a truth teller as mentioned already but the viewer of the photograph cannot intervene with the performance. During the live performance, there is an opportunity for the audience to react ‘with a corporeal response’ but when viewing the performance through a photograph, the viewer is ‘already in interpretation mode’. Trying to decipher whether or not the photograph of Chris Burden’s nail-scarred hands in Trans-fixed 1999 is real or staged is an example of being in the interpretation mode. Because the live performance lacks a fixed referent, the performance photograph itself is liable to become an icon. Here, the photograph functions beyond just a mere document or a staged image. In this discourse of performance photography, the ‘icon presents us with a manifestation of the unknowable and an encounter with that manifestation in a state of belief’. Warr points out that the role of the photograph as an icon is riddled with contradictions and compromise. The icon ‘is both indexical and documentary’, presenting itself as tangible evidence but in doing so it also ‘compromises it status as a manifestation of an unknowable to be believed’–conjuring up issues of fakery. The icon is a paradox because the iconic ‘must be universally familiar and †¦enigmatic’, or ‘the known and the unknowable’. In the world of art, the photographs of Jackson Pollock and Joseph Beuys–images of two famous and well-k nown artists–are as much icons as are their artwork. Warr’s exploration of the four discourses presents contradictions between the discourses but at times they also complement each other. However, all four discourses point to the conclusion that even performance photography, like the art object, has no fixed meaning nor is there a fixed relationship between photography and performance. As Warr has shown us, it is a relationship that is highly complex.

Special Needs in the Classroom :: Education Disabilities Essays

Special Needs in the Classroom Virginia teachers face many challenges when trying to meet the needs of special needs students in their science classrooms. The most difficult task at hand for Virginia teachers is making sure that all students (general education and special education) learn the content outlined by the Virginia Standards of Learning. These standards "set reasonable targets and expectations for what teachers need to teach and students need to learn" (Virginia Standards of Learning, 1995, foreward). These targets and expectations are in the four core subjects, including science, however, no accommodations have been made in the SOLs for special needs students. All students, regardless of ability will need to know the same material in order to pass and graduate. One way that Virginia teachers meet the challenging needs of students is through the use of special strategies. Much research has been conducted which supports the use of special strategies to teach science content to students with special needs. Research has shown that some strategies to help special needs students in science are to prioritize materials in order of importance, pre-teach vocabulary that may be difficult for students, paraphrase passages, provide study guides, graphics, and organizers, or provide audio-taped texts (Munk, Bruckert, & Call). Other research suggests that teachers should, "employ strategies that emulate the principles of inclusive education (for example, outcome-based education, multiple intelligence theory, constructivist learning, cooperative learning, use of technology in the classroom, and peer-mediated instruction)." (Norman, Caseau, and Stegfanich, 1998) Gallas (1995) writes that it is important to build on students’ prior knowledge, so that they can use that knowledge to explore theories and construct other ideas and explanations. Methods of evaluation are also a concern and challenge for educators of special needs students today. Finson & Ormsbee (1998) argue that, "rubrics are effective methods for objectively and individually assessing the achievement of students with learning and behavior problems in inclusive science classrooms†¦." Rubrics are especially useful because they are written as a specific outline of the skills or knowledge that the students are to master after the lesson and points are awarded in a systematic and objective manner. To further explore the realm of special needs students and their education in science classrooms in Virginia today, we interviewed two educators from Central Virginia. "There simply is never enough time in the day to meet the needs of all students. And, when you think about it, they all have special needs†¦" Anne, a fourth grade teacher remarked when asked how she finds time to attend to both her general education students and special education students.

Criminal Justice System :: essays research papers

I do feel that they will be effecitve and in the next few pages I will explain why I feel this way and why I have taken this stand. First of all I read through the whole charter and as boring as it was I made it through unscaved. Just like anything in order to have something you need a purpose. A reason for doing something. The reason why this charter was brought forward was because that they realized that during that century millions of children, mean and women have been victims of unimaginable atrocities that deeply shock the conscience of humanity. That sounds like enough for me. When I read that, I was think â€Å"Oh my God†, I mean come on unimaginable atrocities. It is obvious that something that to be done and even the littlest change would make a difference. The first thing they did was establish a â€Å"Court†. This court was permanent and had the power to exercise its jurisdiction over people for the most serious crimes. What I like about this and a reason why I feel it will work also is that in the beginning of the charter is that they have a relationship with the United Nations. This relationship only makes this court stronger. Part III of the charter looks a lot like a military code of justice. It set’s principles to be followed by the court or in the military a Commander if you will. It appears to me that this charters strength is in Part III, because here is where all the rules or articles are that explain what can be done by the court and what can not be done. It breaks it down to the core, including what to do with someone under 18 years of age. I feel that this is where the strength of the court lies. It defines who is a criminal and who is not, it tells us when the court can pursue a criminal or when a crime is not comitted. The further I got into the parts, the more I strongly I feel about saying they will be effective. It seems as if this court is no different then another court we have in the USA. Part four set’s up the membership. It states who is in charge of what and what their responsibilites should be. When you have people who know what they are supposed to do and that they are held accountable to their jobs then failure is not an option.

Going Against the Grain: “Updike a&p”

Going Against the Grain: â€Å"Unity of Effect† in Updike’s â€Å"A&P† â€Å"A&P† is a short story by John Updike that tells the story of three girls who enter a grocery store and attract quite a bit of attention from: Stokesie, the manager; Lengel, a checkout clerk; and – most of all – Sammy, also a checkout clerk. The story follows the thoughts and actions of Sammy as he observes the three girls who are only dressed in bathing suites. The notable points are Sammy’s interaction with another customer, the interaction with his fellow checkout clerk Stokesie, and ultimately his boss and manager Lengel.The story comes to an unexpected climax after Lengel tells the girls to leave the store because of their indecent clothing and as a result Sammy decides to quit. Throughout this short story, John Updike works towards the reader realizing the negative connotations of rebellion and conformity; this is accomplished through several different na rrative devices including – but not limited to – â€Å"first person narration† and â€Å"the unreliable narrator. The first noticeable narrative device utilized by John Updike is that of â€Å"first person narration† where the voice that is created for Sammy is poetically graphic and intentionally provoking; this is clear when one observes how Sammy’s internal narration switches between sharp wit and common slang. This is also proof that Sammy is capable of clear, intelligent thought even though he is merely nineteen years old. The way he chooses to describe things in his mind is truly remarkable as he refers to one of the girls’ hair as â€Å"oaky† and that the light from outside seems like it is â€Å"skating around† the parking lot.It is interesting, however, how Updike continually refrains Sammy’s language by beginning his sentences with phrases like â€Å"You know† and â€Å"Really† which, in effect, keeps the overall language of Sammy seemingly natural. It would make sense to assume that during the course of the story, Updike is deliberately making Sammy use this â€Å"natural† language mixed with sharp wit in order for the reader to be able to distinguish Sammy’s voice from that of Updike himself.Indeed it would ruin the story if Updike used Sammy’s voice to be a stand-in for Updike, or a spokesman for the â€Å"authorial† point of view. Another narrative device that Updike makes use of during this story is that of an â€Å"unreliable† narrator, which essentially means that Sammy voice, which narrates the entire story, should not be simply accepted as infallible, but rather that Sammy’s narration should be thoroughly analyzed.This concept of the â€Å"unreliable† narrator is made clear when one looks at Sammy’s comment on the female mind and how it is completely unknowable; this needs to be taken not as Updike’s ge neral feeling on the particular topic, but rather an account in the characters voice. The device of â€Å"unreliable† narrator can be made even more clearly in the example where Sammy says that â€Å"once you begin a gesture it’s fatal not to go through with it† (343). This can absolutely not be a statement that Updike intended the reader to think he himself was saying.Updike put these words in the mouth of Sammy because they represent an idea that is highly debatable which is coming from a nineteen year old who just might have reason to regret the actions he completes. Understanding this narrative device in Updike’s story is essential to being able to grasp the true plot of â€Å"A&P,† which is the slow revelation of a young man’s character. The final narrative device that will be described here is that of John Updike’s excellent use of â€Å"symbolism† throughout the entire short story that gives rise to the originality of Sa mmy’s thinking and the town in general.One notable use of â€Å"symbolism† within Updike’s story is that of colors. â€Å"Holding a little gray jar in her hand† (341), â€Å"Stokesie with his usual luck draws an old party in baggy gray pants† (341), â€Å"Lengel sighs and begins to look very patient and old and gray† (343). With the above examples pointing towards Updike’s use of the color gray, it is even more important then to notice that the only things that are described in color are the three girls.It could be interpreted that the fact of everything being gray besides the girls shows how the only things important to Sammy at that moment are the girls. In order for Updike to characterize the town, he decides to use animals. â€Å"The sheep pushing their carts down the aisle – the girls were walking against the usual traffic† (339-340). The symbolism is fairly obvious as sheep are known to simply do what the group doe s and not to change their routine; they don’t think on their own, they just follow each other.This could possibly symbolize how tight knit the community was, or how these three girls were an unwelcomed break in the towns routine. Through these three narrative devices, it is clear to see that in Updike’s telling of Sammy the checkout clerk, the reader is supposed to get a sense of the negative connotations of rebellion and conformity. The reader is forced to critically analyze the decisions and thoughts that Sammy makes as a result of the three girls entering â€Å"A&P†, as well as notice the downfalls of stringent, unwavering conformity.

Breastfeeding in Public

Breastfeeding in Public: A Woman’s Right or Crime Women were born blessed with the ability to offer the most natural and beautiful act a mother can do for her child. Breastfeeding is a treasurable bond shared between mother and child. Controversy arises when nursing mothers choose to perform feedings in public areas. Select groups of people view breastfeeding in public places as indecent and offensive. It is to be determined if it is a women’s right to breastfeed her child anywhere she deems suitable. According to the medical dictionary, breastfeeding is defined as feeding a child human breast milk (â€Å"eMedicineHealth. om†). A lactating mother produces this milk. Lactation is the process of producing milk. Human milk is secreted by the mammary glands, which are located within the fatty tissue of the breast (â€Å"eMedicineHealth. com†). Mothers unable to produce adequate amounts of breast milk are in the minority. Most women begin to lactate before the birth process takes place. After a baby is born the mother is able to immediately begin nursing. The number of women that choose to breastfeed their children has begun to dwindle significantly over the decades. Is this because society as a whole has become lazy?Is it because breastfeeding does not have enough proven benefits over formula? Or is it because society does not approve of women breastfeeding in public, making it increasingly more difficult for nursing women to continue their lives after giving birth? It would be impossible for every individual in America to agree on any one subject. The topic of breastfeeding is not excluded. Advocates turn a cheek at the sight of a bare breast or smile in the beauty of the natural gift. Anti-breastfeeding individuals frown upon the sight due to morals, beliefs, and preference.The issue comes down to whether breastfeeding should or should not be allowed in public. Those who whole-heartedly believe in breast milks benefits support mothers being allowed to breastfeed in public places and those that disagree view breastfeeding as non-necessary, unimportant, and disturbing. Both of these groups not only include the average citizen on the street, but also the business owners of America. Breastfeeding mothers may have a need to feed their child in a park, airplane, retail store, grocery store, restaurant, and even one’s office.How do we deem areas as appropriate or inappropriate when babies rely on the breast of their mother for their nourishment? Should mothers be restrained to their holms until the breastfeeding has ceased? There must be solutions to these questions. The facts and myths of breastfeeding need to be clear and known by the citizens of America. Mothers around the world make the decision everyday to breastfeed or bottle-feed their newborn babies. The factors that help them in the decision making process are not always well-defined.Dying of Breast Cancer in the 1800sWomen must know the reality of the b eauty and harshness of breastfeeding. The ease of being able to carry on with their daily lives is a chief factor. Therefore breastfeeding in public must be contemplated. The practice of breastfeeding originated when the first woman gave birth to a baby. In earlier times, breastfeeding was the only source of food and nourishment for babies. What was a common practice has changed dramatically over the generations. In history breastfeeding was as necessary as going to the restroom. Human breast milk was the only food accessible for babies.It was, and still is in many poverty-based communities, crucial to breastfeed young children. According to Wikipedia Encyclopedia, before the 20th century breastfeeding was the most common form of nutrition used for infants (Wikipedia). Lactating women are not only crucial to their own children, but to offspring of others as well. These women are referred to as wet nurses. A wet nurse is a woman who breast-feeds and cares for another's child (â€Å" Wet Nurse†). It used to be fact that if a mother died then the child was left to die due to starvation.This is unless another lactating woman is able to assume the duties. Wet nurses are commissioned when a mother is unable or chooses not to nurse the child herself. In the case that other lactating women were not available, the motherless baby would perish. When necessary, a baby’s milk was substituted with the milk of an animal such as a goat or cow. In the 1800’s doctors, scientist, and other researchers began investigating what ingredients were indispensible in food mixes for babies to grow. In 1867, the first commercially available baby food was created by Justus von Liebig â€Å"breastfeeding-mom. com†). Following this development, various other kinds of baby formulas were made. Numerous women around the world began using these formulas in place of breastfeeding. Manufacturers promoted the use of baby formulas as a modern way to feed babies. By 1950, more than half of the babies in the USA were fed some form of baby formula (â€Å"breastfeeding-mom. com†). Trends began to change back in the 1970’s. Women felt the need to go back to the fundamentals of feeding their babies as done in history.Public pressure has urged health departments to recognize the significance of breastfeeding and encourage mothers to do so. There are now laws in place to protect the rights of a breastfeeding mother when feeding her child in public. A baby's need to eat cannot be determined by a set schedule. There are laws that make public breastfeeding legal and prohibit companies from banning it in the workplace. A United States House of Representatives appropriations bill with a breastfeeding amendment was signed into law on September 29, 1999 (â€Å"History and Culture of Breastfeeding†).It specified that no government funds may be expended to enforce any bar on women breastfeeding their children in Federal buildings or property. A majority of states have enacted state statutes specifically permitting the exposure of the female breast by women breastfeeding infants, or exempting such women from prosecution under applicable statutes, such as those regarding indecent exposure (â€Å"History and Culture of Breastfeeding†). Breastfeeding babies in public is legal in all 50 states. The controversy on breastfeeding in public has no true beginning.It would be impossible to determine who first opposed the act and when they did so. Though breastfeeding was essential in early history, there was bound to have been individuals who did not enjoy seeing the exposed breast of a nursing mother. As our society has evolved the issue has grown to be a larger dispute. Americans have begun to put expectations and standards on what is deemed apt to be viewed in public. Free speech is a right and morals are a personal preference. History proves that what was common and natural has ecome less and less so in the birth of new ge nerations. Breastfeeding played a big part in historical times by nourishing the men and women who grew to be the founding fathers and mothers of America. Todays leaders could have been breastfed or bottle-fed. Did Obama’s mother feed him human breast milk or formula? Does it really matter? The answer is no. The nourishment we are given as children determines our future health, but has no standing otherwise. Yet, it is our mothers’ choices on how we receive our nourishment.I am left to wonder if breastfeeding will diminish entirely in the future for the simple fact that the opinions of our fellow peers are beginning to determine much more than they should. Breastfeeding in public was accepted in history, but now it is frowned upon as much as divorce and tattoos. Our society may never return to making its own decisions and not having to worry about the feelings of those around us? It might be a blessing that there are many options available other than breastfeeding beca use options allow ease and freedom.With all the diseases and cancers striking women these days, options allow them to do everything from artificial insemination to adoption. The availability of options has the capability to cause unwanted stress. If breastfeeding in public grows to be a larger issue, what once was a natural given ability and blessing might become a mute subject. Therefor it must be determined if it is a woman’s right to breastfeed her child wherever vital or if it is a crime to breastfeed in public areas. In the beginning it was the only option. Today it is one of many. Actions will decide what it will be tomorrow.Breastfeeding has many benefits. In addition to being packed full of nutrients and vitamins, breast milk can help prevent and/or lower the risk of many illnesses for both mother and baby. Along with the protection against a long list of illnesses, breastfeeding can protect your baby from developing allergies, becoming obese, lower the risk of SIDS ( sudden infant death syndrome), and much more. It often reduces a mothers stress levels, chances of developing postpartum depression, and risks of acquiring some types of cancer. Breast milk is specifically customized and tailored to every baby.Your body responds to pathogens (virus and bacteria) that are in your body and makes secretory IgA that's specific to those pathogens, creating protection for your baby based on whatever you're exposed to (â€Å"babycenter. com†). Studies have been done that present findings showing that breastfeed boosts a child’s intelligence. In a study of more than 17,000 infants followed from birth to 6 1/2 years, researchers concluded from IQ scores and other intelligence tests that prolonged and exclusive breastfeeding significantly improves cognitive development (â€Å"babycenter. com†).Most importantly breastfeeding creates a special bond between a mother and a child. Dan Hurley, medical journalist, argues that breast fed babies a re at a much lower risk for developing type one diabetes. The author asserts that cows milk is the culprit due to it cultivating an attack on the immune systems that results in diabetes in the future. Hurley promotes his thesis by giving the results of both his own studies on rats and those of other experts. He claims that babies who are breast fed for at least 6 months before being introduced to cows milk have enough time to build up a strong enough immune system.Hurley directly connects diabetes to cows milk in order to promote breastfeeding infants and a decrease in the statistics on diabetes in the future. Like everything in life, where they are positives, there are bound to be negatives that come along with them. Breastfeeding brings on copious amounts of pain in a woman’s breast. The entire breast becomes sore, hard, and warm. Creams must be applied often to prevent cracking and bleeding. The secretion of milk is uncontrollable and often a nuisance. The amount of leakin g is different with every woman, yet never the less undesirable.Special pads must be worn at all times to prevent the obvious show of a woman’s leaking breast in public. When or if a mother returns to work or is away from her child for a length of time, she must use a breast pump to prepare milk for these absences. This requires her to pump on the baby’s normal feeding schedule. Breastfeeding also prevents a mother from drinking alcohol, smoking, and even taking certain medications. Some are completely against breastfeeding. Zoe Williams, British columnist and journalist, concludes that the benefits of breastfeeding are questionable and unproven.She faults the zealot advocates that see breastfeeding as the only option. Williams fosters her thesis be referencing many authorities on the lack of proven benefits of nursing. Her research is aimed towards the women considering other options besides breastfeeding. Williams stresses that there are an copious amounts of parents who love their children unconditionally without breastfeeding in order to challenge the orthodoxy of the breast being the best. Naomi Wolf, feminist author, implies that due to feminism placing women in the workforce there is no time for mothers to take breastfeeding as a serious option.The author blames the grueling work schedules of modern times to be the cause of the reduction in nursing mothers. Wolf supports her thesis by citing case studies, using examples, and telling of her own personal experience. She suggests that stay-at-home mothers are more inclined to breastfeed their children. Wolf relates nursing to be a drug of choice in order to convince readers that most mothers choose to breastfeed for the natural high and not for the benefits. Mothers who choose to breastfeed feel the positive effects out weigh the negative aspects of breastfeeding.So if they are strong enough to endure the pain and irritations that breastfeeding brings them, they certainly take their job as a mother as a high priority. These women should be praised and not frowned upon. They made the ultimate decision to nourish their children with the milk the naturally produce; which does not make them the out casts of our society. These women have lives just as the rest of us do. If they choose to put their life on hold to nurse their children, it should be a reminder as to how important life is.This is the main reason breastfeeding should be condoned in public and not shunned. Life is a beautiful thing and the women who give birth to life and choose to continue their lives with having a child that is dependent on them in such a major way are a strong and powerful part of our society. We are accepting of the victoria secret models on TV who are half naked. Why are we not acceptable of the average mother who exposes her naked breast to feed her own child? I propose we help promote breastfeeding in public.If the stamp of approval is given to the models in lingerie that appear in TV comm ercials, magazines, and ads on billboards, we must give nursing mothers the same. Our children have the opportunity to see much more vulgar images at home and in public. Therefore why are the women with the important job of nurturing their offspring with their own natural ability being asked to leave public places if they attempt to breastfeed? In many eyes, including mine, it is hypocritical and a crying shame. These strong women deserve respect for what they are doing.The looks of disgust by the lack of understanding from those uninformed cannot cause such a amazing gift to be any more of a hard task than it already is. America is not accurately informed or equipped with the information and utilities for nursing mothers. My proposal is that business’ open to the public and those with employees of the female gender designate private areas for breastfeeding or provide disposable drapes for the mothers not already equipped with such. The intent is that mothers not feel like th e elephant in the room while nursing their children.This proposal would allow business’ to either utilize pre-existing space that is not being used or create a comfortable area for mother and baby to sit and feed that is out of the public eye. Many business’ already have this plan in effect, therefore the second part of my proposal is that stations be placed in parks, malls, places of business, and etc. that contain disposable drapes that mothers may place over themselves while their bare breast is exposed. In the case of business’ designating areas for nursing to take place, the cost could be minimal by using existing rooms.These rooms could be an extra janitor closet or office that is enhanced with a chair or sofa, small table, diaper changing station, and possibly a sink. Another area might be a section of a bathroom. With an adequate chair, most bathrooms would be sufficient for breastfeeding. The other part of my proposal involving the drapery stations migh t be easier on mothers, yet more costly. I believe our government could afford to place these stations in public areas around our cities. The drapes being disposable would allow them to be made out of cheap material.Many public parks already have stations such as these for our pets. Restaurants could supply the drapes just as they do plastic bibs for children. In conclusion, I strongly believe breastfeeding is not vital, yet it is a great source of nutrition for babies. After giving birth to my daughter in December of 2011 I made the decision to breastfeed her. Though it was not always fun, I enjoyed having someone so dependent upon me. A week after she was born I had to return to school to take my first college finals. Somehow I made it through it, but it wasn’t long before the spring semester was going to be in session.I was going to have to return to work to support us, stay in school to better our future, and manage to be the best parent possible. The day before my first spring class I made the decision that it would be near impossible to pump enough milk in the 15 minutes between classes while walking from building to building. I knew that the looks I would receive from students if I exposed myself on a bench outside Patterson Hall would be not be ones of approval. Let alone I am quite certain that the University of Memphis would promote me doing so.I considered informing my teachers that I would not be on time to class each day and explain why, but opted out. After researching this paper, I feel remorseful that I did not continue to breastfeed. She is a winter baby and is in and out of the hospital with RSV quite often. I have to ask myself if her receiving my breast milk instead of formula could have prevented this. Though I will never have the answer I vow that I will breastfeed my next child despite any circumstances. My hope is that by then there will be more adequate resources for me to do so.Odds are I will be out of school by the time this occurs, but many moms will not be. The University most likely does not wish to promote girls having children at early ages, yet it is being an epidemic. My last proposal is that women on campus that wish to breastfeed be provided with support by the faculty and staff. This would entail a special spot on campus in such a place like the University Center be designated for nursing mothers and more leniency on tardiness to class. A doctor note should be provided and kept on file. Breastfeeding in public should not be the issue that it is.Maybe formula is just as sufficient, but facts have shown that breast milk is an outstanding resource for babies to be provided. If a mother is capable and willing, it is not the right of anyone else to discriminate. Breastfeeding is not a crime. It is the right given to every woman and a blessing to babies across the world. Works Cited â€Å"Breastfeeding Glossary of Terms. † eMedicineHealth. com. WebMD, n. d. Web. 22 November 2012. â€Å"brest feeding-mom. com. † brestfeeding-mom. com. (2012): n. page. Web. 8 Nov. 2012. . â€Å"Definition of Breastfeeding . † eMedicineHealth. com. WebMD, 27 2011.Web. 22 November 2012. . â€Å"History and Culture of Breastfeeding. † Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. . â€Å"How breastfeeding benefits you and your baby. † babycenter. com. BabyCenter, L. L. C. , n. d. Web. 1 December 2012. . Hurley, Dan. Diabetes Rising. New York: Kaplan Publishing, 2010. 109-126. Print. â€Å"Wet Nurse. † Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. . Wikipedia contributors. â€Å"Breastfeeding. † Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. . Williams, Zoe. â€Å"The Guardian. † Guardian. (2012): n. page. Web. 15 Oct. 2012. . Wolf, Naomi. Misconceptions. 1st ed. New York: Doubleday, 2001. 266-297. Print. Breastfeeding in Public Breastfeeding in Public: A Woman’s Right or Crime Women were born blessed with the ability to offer the most natural and beautiful act a mother can do for her child. Breastfeeding is a treasurable bond shared between mother and child. Controversy arises when nursing mothers choose to perform feedings in public areas. Select groups of people view breastfeeding in public places as indecent and offensive. It is to be determined if it is a women’s right to breastfeed her child anywhere she deems suitable. According to the medical dictionary, breastfeeding is defined as feeding a child human breast milk (â€Å"eMedicineHealth. om†). A lactating mother produces this milk. Lactation is the process of producing milk. Human milk is secreted by the mammary glands, which are located within the fatty tissue of the breast (â€Å"eMedicineHealth. com†). Mothers unable to produce adequate amounts of breast milk are in the minority. Most women begin to lactate before the birth process takes place. After a baby is born the mother is able to immediately begin nursing. The number of women that choose to breastfeed their children has begun to dwindle significantly over the decades. Is this because society as a whole has become lazy?Is it because breastfeeding does not have enough proven benefits over formula? Or is it because society does not approve of women breastfeeding in public, making it increasingly more difficult for nursing women to continue their lives after giving birth? It would be impossible for every individual in America to agree on any one subject. The topic of breastfeeding is not excluded. Advocates turn a cheek at the sight of a bare breast or smile in the beauty of the natural gift. Anti-breastfeeding individuals frown upon the sight due to morals, beliefs, and preference.The issue comes down to whether breastfeeding should or should not be allowed in public. Those who whole-heartedly believe in breast milks benefits support mothers being allowed to breastfeed in public places and those that disagree view breastfeeding as non-necessary, unimportant, and disturbing. Both of these groups not only include the average citizen on the street, but also the business owners of America. Breastfeeding mothers may have a need to feed their child in a park, airplane, retail store, grocery store, restaurant, and even one’s office.How do we deem areas as appropriate or inappropriate when babies rely on the breast of their mother for their nourishment? Should mothers be restrained to their holms until the breastfeeding has ceased? There must be solutions to these questions. The facts and myths of breastfeeding need to be clear and known by the citizens of America. Mothers around the world make the decision everyday to breastfeed or bottle-feed their newborn babies. The factors that help them in the decision making process are not always well-defined.Dying of Breast Cancer in the 1800sWomen must know the reality of the b eauty and harshness of breastfeeding. The ease of being able to carry on with their daily lives is a chief factor. Therefore breastfeeding in public must be contemplated. The practice of breastfeeding originated when the first woman gave birth to a baby. In earlier times, breastfeeding was the only source of food and nourishment for babies. What was a common practice has changed dramatically over the generations. In history breastfeeding was as necessary as going to the restroom. Human breast milk was the only food accessible for babies.It was, and still is in many poverty-based communities, crucial to breastfeed young children. According to Wikipedia Encyclopedia, before the 20th century breastfeeding was the most common form of nutrition used for infants (Wikipedia). Lactating women are not only crucial to their own children, but to offspring of others as well. These women are referred to as wet nurses. A wet nurse is a woman who breast-feeds and cares for another's child (â€Å" Wet Nurse†). It used to be fact that if a mother died then the child was left to die due to starvation.This is unless another lactating woman is able to assume the duties. Wet nurses are commissioned when a mother is unable or chooses not to nurse the child herself. In the case that other lactating women were not available, the motherless baby would perish. When necessary, a baby’s milk was substituted with the milk of an animal such as a goat or cow. In the 1800’s doctors, scientist, and other researchers began investigating what ingredients were indispensible in food mixes for babies to grow. In 1867, the first commercially available baby food was created by Justus von Liebig â€Å"breastfeeding-mom. com†). Following this development, various other kinds of baby formulas were made. Numerous women around the world began using these formulas in place of breastfeeding. Manufacturers promoted the use of baby formulas as a modern way to feed babies. By 1950, more than half of the babies in the USA were fed some form of baby formula (â€Å"breastfeeding-mom. com†). Trends began to change back in the 1970’s. Women felt the need to go back to the fundamentals of feeding their babies as done in history.Public pressure has urged health departments to recognize the significance of breastfeeding and encourage mothers to do so. There are now laws in place to protect the rights of a breastfeeding mother when feeding her child in public. A baby's need to eat cannot be determined by a set schedule. There are laws that make public breastfeeding legal and prohibit companies from banning it in the workplace. A United States House of Representatives appropriations bill with a breastfeeding amendment was signed into law on September 29, 1999 (â€Å"History and Culture of Breastfeeding†).It specified that no government funds may be expended to enforce any bar on women breastfeeding their children in Federal buildings or property. A majority of states have enacted state statutes specifically permitting the exposure of the female breast by women breastfeeding infants, or exempting such women from prosecution under applicable statutes, such as those regarding indecent exposure (â€Å"History and Culture of Breastfeeding†). Breastfeeding babies in public is legal in all 50 states. The controversy on breastfeeding in public has no true beginning.It would be impossible to determine who first opposed the act and when they did so. Though breastfeeding was essential in early history, there was bound to have been individuals who did not enjoy seeing the exposed breast of a nursing mother. As our society has evolved the issue has grown to be a larger dispute. Americans have begun to put expectations and standards on what is deemed apt to be viewed in public. Free speech is a right and morals are a personal preference. History proves that what was common and natural has ecome less and less so in the birth of new ge nerations. Breastfeeding played a big part in historical times by nourishing the men and women who grew to be the founding fathers and mothers of America. Todays leaders could have been breastfed or bottle-fed. Did Obama’s mother feed him human breast milk or formula? Does it really matter? The answer is no. The nourishment we are given as children determines our future health, but has no standing otherwise. Yet, it is our mothers’ choices on how we receive our nourishment.I am left to wonder if breastfeeding will diminish entirely in the future for the simple fact that the opinions of our fellow peers are beginning to determine much more than they should. Breastfeeding in public was accepted in history, but now it is frowned upon as much as divorce and tattoos. Our society may never return to making its own decisions and not having to worry about the feelings of those around us? It might be a blessing that there are many options available other than breastfeeding beca use options allow ease and freedom.With all the diseases and cancers striking women these days, options allow them to do everything from artificial insemination to adoption. The availability of options has the capability to cause unwanted stress. If breastfeeding in public grows to be a larger issue, what once was a natural given ability and blessing might become a mute subject. Therefor it must be determined if it is a woman’s right to breastfeed her child wherever vital or if it is a crime to breastfeed in public areas. In the beginning it was the only option. Today it is one of many. Actions will decide what it will be tomorrow.Breastfeeding has many benefits. In addition to being packed full of nutrients and vitamins, breast milk can help prevent and/or lower the risk of many illnesses for both mother and baby. Along with the protection against a long list of illnesses, breastfeeding can protect your baby from developing allergies, becoming obese, lower the risk of SIDS ( sudden infant death syndrome), and much more. It often reduces a mothers stress levels, chances of developing postpartum depression, and risks of acquiring some types of cancer. Breast milk is specifically customized and tailored to every baby.Your body responds to pathogens (virus and bacteria) that are in your body and makes secretory IgA that's specific to those pathogens, creating protection for your baby based on whatever you're exposed to (â€Å"babycenter. com†). Studies have been done that present findings showing that breastfeed boosts a child’s intelligence. In a study of more than 17,000 infants followed from birth to 6 1/2 years, researchers concluded from IQ scores and other intelligence tests that prolonged and exclusive breastfeeding significantly improves cognitive development (â€Å"babycenter. com†).Most importantly breastfeeding creates a special bond between a mother and a child. Dan Hurley, medical journalist, argues that breast fed babies a re at a much lower risk for developing type one diabetes. The author asserts that cows milk is the culprit due to it cultivating an attack on the immune systems that results in diabetes in the future. Hurley promotes his thesis by giving the results of both his own studies on rats and those of other experts. He claims that babies who are breast fed for at least 6 months before being introduced to cows milk have enough time to build up a strong enough immune system.Hurley directly connects diabetes to cows milk in order to promote breastfeeding infants and a decrease in the statistics on diabetes in the future. Like everything in life, where they are positives, there are bound to be negatives that come along with them. Breastfeeding brings on copious amounts of pain in a woman’s breast. The entire breast becomes sore, hard, and warm. Creams must be applied often to prevent cracking and bleeding. The secretion of milk is uncontrollable and often a nuisance. The amount of leakin g is different with every woman, yet never the less undesirable.Special pads must be worn at all times to prevent the obvious show of a woman’s leaking breast in public. When or if a mother returns to work or is away from her child for a length of time, she must use a breast pump to prepare milk for these absences. This requires her to pump on the baby’s normal feeding schedule. Breastfeeding also prevents a mother from drinking alcohol, smoking, and even taking certain medications. Some are completely against breastfeeding. Zoe Williams, British columnist and journalist, concludes that the benefits of breastfeeding are questionable and unproven.She faults the zealot advocates that see breastfeeding as the only option. Williams fosters her thesis be referencing many authorities on the lack of proven benefits of nursing. Her research is aimed towards the women considering other options besides breastfeeding. Williams stresses that there are an copious amounts of parents who love their children unconditionally without breastfeeding in order to challenge the orthodoxy of the breast being the best. Naomi Wolf, feminist author, implies that due to feminism placing women in the workforce there is no time for mothers to take breastfeeding as a serious option.The author blames the grueling work schedules of modern times to be the cause of the reduction in nursing mothers. Wolf supports her thesis by citing case studies, using examples, and telling of her own personal experience. She suggests that stay-at-home mothers are more inclined to breastfeed their children. Wolf relates nursing to be a drug of choice in order to convince readers that most mothers choose to breastfeed for the natural high and not for the benefits. Mothers who choose to breastfeed feel the positive effects out weigh the negative aspects of breastfeeding.So if they are strong enough to endure the pain and irritations that breastfeeding brings them, they certainly take their job as a mother as a high priority. These women should be praised and not frowned upon. They made the ultimate decision to nourish their children with the milk the naturally produce; which does not make them the out casts of our society. These women have lives just as the rest of us do. If they choose to put their life on hold to nurse their children, it should be a reminder as to how important life is.This is the main reason breastfeeding should be condoned in public and not shunned. Life is a beautiful thing and the women who give birth to life and choose to continue their lives with having a child that is dependent on them in such a major way are a strong and powerful part of our society. We are accepting of the victoria secret models on TV who are half naked. Why are we not acceptable of the average mother who exposes her naked breast to feed her own child? I propose we help promote breastfeeding in public.If the stamp of approval is given to the models in lingerie that appear in TV comm ercials, magazines, and ads on billboards, we must give nursing mothers the same. Our children have the opportunity to see much more vulgar images at home and in public. Therefore why are the women with the important job of nurturing their offspring with their own natural ability being asked to leave public places if they attempt to breastfeed? In many eyes, including mine, it is hypocritical and a crying shame. These strong women deserve respect for what they are doing.The looks of disgust by the lack of understanding from those uninformed cannot cause such a amazing gift to be any more of a hard task than it already is. America is not accurately informed or equipped with the information and utilities for nursing mothers. My proposal is that business’ open to the public and those with employees of the female gender designate private areas for breastfeeding or provide disposable drapes for the mothers not already equipped with such. The intent is that mothers not feel like th e elephant in the room while nursing their children.This proposal would allow business’ to either utilize pre-existing space that is not being used or create a comfortable area for mother and baby to sit and feed that is out of the public eye. Many business’ already have this plan in effect, therefore the second part of my proposal is that stations be placed in parks, malls, places of business, and etc. that contain disposable drapes that mothers may place over themselves while their bare breast is exposed. In the case of business’ designating areas for nursing to take place, the cost could be minimal by using existing rooms.These rooms could be an extra janitor closet or office that is enhanced with a chair or sofa, small table, diaper changing station, and possibly a sink. Another area might be a section of a bathroom. With an adequate chair, most bathrooms would be sufficient for breastfeeding. The other part of my proposal involving the drapery stations migh t be easier on mothers, yet more costly. I believe our government could afford to place these stations in public areas around our cities. The drapes being disposable would allow them to be made out of cheap material.Many public parks already have stations such as these for our pets. Restaurants could supply the drapes just as they do plastic bibs for children. In conclusion, I strongly believe breastfeeding is not vital, yet it is a great source of nutrition for babies. After giving birth to my daughter in December of 2011 I made the decision to breastfeed her. Though it was not always fun, I enjoyed having someone so dependent upon me. A week after she was born I had to return to school to take my first college finals. Somehow I made it through it, but it wasn’t long before the spring semester was going to be in session.I was going to have to return to work to support us, stay in school to better our future, and manage to be the best parent possible. The day before my first spring class I made the decision that it would be near impossible to pump enough milk in the 15 minutes between classes while walking from building to building. I knew that the looks I would receive from students if I exposed myself on a bench outside Patterson Hall would be not be ones of approval. Let alone I am quite certain that the University of Memphis would promote me doing so.I considered informing my teachers that I would not be on time to class each day and explain why, but opted out. After researching this paper, I feel remorseful that I did not continue to breastfeed. She is a winter baby and is in and out of the hospital with RSV quite often. I have to ask myself if her receiving my breast milk instead of formula could have prevented this. Though I will never have the answer I vow that I will breastfeed my next child despite any circumstances. My hope is that by then there will be more adequate resources for me to do so.Odds are I will be out of school by the time this occurs, but many moms will not be. The University most likely does not wish to promote girls having children at early ages, yet it is being an epidemic. My last proposal is that women on campus that wish to breastfeed be provided with support by the faculty and staff. This would entail a special spot on campus in such a place like the University Center be designated for nursing mothers and more leniency on tardiness to class. A doctor note should be provided and kept on file. Breastfeeding in public should not be the issue that it is.Maybe formula is just as sufficient, but facts have shown that breast milk is an outstanding resource for babies to be provided. If a mother is capable and willing, it is not the right of anyone else to discriminate. Breastfeeding is not a crime. It is the right given to every woman and a blessing to babies across the world. Works Cited â€Å"Breastfeeding Glossary of Terms. † eMedicineHealth. com. WebMD, n. d. Web. 22 November 2012. â€Å"brest feeding-mom. com. † brestfeeding-mom. com. (2012): n. page. Web. 8 Nov. 2012. . â€Å"Definition of Breastfeeding . † eMedicineHealth. com. WebMD, 27 2011.Web. 22 November 2012. . â€Å"History and Culture of Breastfeeding. † Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. . â€Å"How breastfeeding benefits you and your baby. † babycenter. com. BabyCenter, L. L. C. , n. d. Web. 1 December 2012. . Hurley, Dan. Diabetes Rising. New York: Kaplan Publishing, 2010. 109-126. Print. â€Å"Wet Nurse. † Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. . Wikipedia contributors. â€Å"Breastfeeding. † Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. . Williams, Zoe. â€Å"The Guardian. † Guardian. (2012): n. page. Web. 15 Oct. 2012. . Wolf, Naomi. Misconceptions. 1st ed. New York: Doubleday, 2001. 266-297. Print.

Evaluate the Strategic Leadership of Michael O’leary

Is Michael O’Leary an asset or a liability to Ryanair? The case suggests that he is both. Students could debate the pros and cons of Michael O’Leary’s continued leadership of the company. The characteristics that have driven the company forward – his enthusiasm and energy, his strategic insight, his determination and mission orientation – can be carried too far. Is it all part of an integrated inseparable whole, so do you have to take the good with the bad? Is this where we may enter the realm of Sidney Finkelstein’s failure warning signs, when you have too much of a good thing? In fact, some schools of thought would value Michael O’Leary’s relentless energy and his thriving on adversity. It shows a lack of complacency – quite the opposite of what Finkelstein points out as a danger signal. The capacity to irritate may bring about conflict and change. Also, in Michael O’Leary’s favour, as Ryanair’s largest single shareholder, he literally ‘puts his money where his mouth is’. Another way of looking at Michael O’Leary’s leadership is whether he was the right person for the job during the change era, but does the company now require more of a ‘manager’ than a ‘leader’ during a consolidation era? In other words, this is a ‘horses for courses’ approach to the evaluation of O’Leary’s leadership. One may ask whether and/or for how much longer Michael O’Leary wants to stay in the job. Will he get bored and retire to his cattle farm, currently his hobby? There is a suggestion that he would not be happy to preside over a static comfortable situation. Or, would he be headhunted by another airline or by another business altogether? Students might consider whether they would headhunt Michael O’Leary, and why or why not. Chapter 10 discusses types of leaders, i. e. transformational versus transactional and types of leadership emphases and approaches. It is an interesting exercise to see how students would categorise Michael O’Leary. Perhaps what emerges is that he is difficult to categorise. What does this imply?

Consultancy Report Essay

As a subsidiary of one of the largest cosmetics organizations in the world, you are in a position to dramatically increase your potential and further capitalize on your brands recognition. My hope is that you will establish and maintain a broader, more diverse customer base and increase your overall profitability. Based on an in-depth analysis and research conducted on your organizations behalf, I have identified several problematic areas in need of immediate attention. The following document will serve to provide valuable information to address these issues accordingly. One such issue and perhaps one of the most crucial is that of the organization’s brand awareness levels in the United Kingdom. This is due in part to the fact that Mary Kay U.K. is not as widely recognized in the United Kingdom as it is in the Americas. I recommend increasing your presence to reach potential customers who would otherwise be unaware of your organization. We will seek to address the significant growth of new potential competitors while developing a means of competing effectively against already established competitors. You will learn of new methods in which to remain relevant and a viable global contender in the cosmetics industry. New products will serve to provide your organization with a competitive edge and differentiate your organization from all its competitors. New policies and changes in the organization’s infrastructure will increase employee satisfaction an important factor for employee retention. These enhancements to the organization’s current dealings can ultimately increase profitability, improve customer satisfaction levels, and increase employee productivity. As Mary Kay U.K. adopts these changes and once in effect, there will be a need to take on additional employees to tend to the day-to-day operations and supplementary qualified/experienced executive-level professionals, allowing for a more focused approach on the management aspects of the organization. Effective documentation of the organization’s financials will allow for more educated and informed decision-making procedures. Adequate fiscal records serve as effective management tool for predicting future success, identify problem areas and to make decisions that will assist in the organization’s overall effectiveness. In addition to significantly changing the inner workings of the organization in the United Kingdom, substantial changes to the organizations image and frontend interfaces may be required to assist with the issue of brand awareness. The organization must become a well-oiled machine internally as well as an aesthetically pleasing entity for potential customers, future investors and for those considering strategic business alliances. Creating a more convivial atmosphere with which your organization would then be associated will give these interested parties a respectable first impression. It is apparent that lacking presentation and unfocused management gives rise to the decrease or stagnation of profitability and employee retention. Changes to policy, organizational image, and infrastructure will not only prove beneficial but may in fact be necessary for the success of the organization and its future viability within the United Kingdom. In addition, there must be changes in customer behavior to increase the probability of the organization’s adoption. The organization needs to appeal to a broader customer base after shifting consumer views of cosmetics to match that of American consumers. Thus, by implementing novel, eye-catching, and feeling invoking imagery or advertisements, people will in turn be more inclined to purchase Mary Kay products. In order to be more successful, I recommend the transformation of current marketing strategies. Implementation of a marketing plan that encompasses the arguably successful word-of-mouth strategy in addition to overt and persistent adverts by way of social media will benefit the organization’s image. Because a constant stream of information pertaining to the actual products will allow the consumer to easily recall the information and develop a need for the product as presented by the advertisement. In addition, there must be a vested interest in appealing to the variety of potential consumers within the United Kingdom. Mary Kay U.K. would be wise to capitalize on United Kingdom’s ever-growing and diverse population, via the translation and representation of the multitude of languages spoken within the target areas of operation. This will allow for a more comfortable customer experience and personalized identification with the Mary Kay brand. Brand Awareness is at an all-time low as target populations fail to recognize the Mary Kay Brand. The organization must increase its visibility in the growing cosmetics market in the United Kingdom. This is possible with improved advertising and re-imagined brand association. Increased brand recognition will assist with declining profits. The proposals presented in this consultancy report, should Mary Kay U.K. opt to adopt them will serve to promote the organization’s business aptitude and increase overall profitability and effectiveness. My hope is that this educated and informed counsel will effectively navigate the organization into a state of increased viability and the optimization and growth of Mary Kay U.K. business operations and clientele. INTRODUCTION This consultancy report will serve to provide the Mary Kay U.K. Ltd. Subsidiary of Mary Kay Cosmetics with informed suggestions to increase the organization’s revenues and improving the day-to-day dealings of the organization from a management perspective. Following extensive research of the organization’s operations, I have prepared a comprehensive examination of the organization in its entirety. This research has been comprised of a thorough analysis of the organization’s fiscal and promotion facets. This report also takes into account the consumer aspect of the organization, and the organization’s image as viewed by the public. In addition, it will serve to demonstrate the manner in which the target audience does or fails to accept this image. Crucial organizational issues have been identified and addressed accordingly, supplemented with recommendations for minimizing or eliminating potentially negative effects. These suggestions may prove insightful for the achievement of further profitability and consumer satisfaction should the organization choose to implement any or all of the changes proposed in this report. The information provided in this report comes via thorough research and analytical dismantling of data and industry trends and its reassembling in the form of a well-formulated business plan. Suggestions provided will seek to address Mary Kay U.K.’s organizational structure, the organization’s inclination to incorporate a corporate social responsibility element, consumer satisfaction, employee turn-over rates, decreasing or non-existent profits, brand recognition and awareness among target consumers and product quality, to name the most imperative of organization’s issues. In all, if implemented, these changes could ensure a significant turnaround for the Mary Kay U.K. entity. Numbers will rise to the status of or potentially rival those of its American contemporary. The organization would hold a strong position before its global competitors and open the door for future business strategic affiliations. The organizational redesign will prove beneficial for Mary Kay’s United Kingdom division as an organization, for the consumers now receiving increased quality services, and for the leveling of the cosmetics industry in the United Kingdom. ANALYSIS OF CLIENT BUSINESS Company Description and History Mary Kay Inc. is one of the largest cosmetics companies in the world to date. Headquartered in Addison, Texas at 16251 Dallas Parkway Addison, TX 75001 in the United States, it has manufacturing plants located in Dallas, Texas, Hangzhou, China and La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland for its European market. Mary Kay Inc. operates as a subsidiary of Mary Kay Holding Corporation. Founded by Mary Kay Ash in 1963 and based on personally established values that guided her everyday life she sought to help women live the life of their dreams. Company values include integrity, honesty and a belief in the Golden Rule; â€Å"Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.† The mission, to assist and provide the vehicle that would allow prospective independent beauty consultants to have their respective dreams come true via the distribution, promotion, and retailing of a handful of products. Mary Kay Inc. identifies itself as a â€Å"Generation Everything† organization, meaning it serves everyone from all walks of life and of all ages. The organization recently posted that its revenues are up to 3 billion due to sales in its 35 + markets globally. All made possible by its 25 million global independent sales force.