Synthesised by living organisms

Synthesised by living organisms Definition of biopolymer: Biopolymers are naturally occurring polymers which are synthesised by living organisms. This synthesis can occur either internally within an organisms structure, or externally in appropriate conditions. The term biopolymer also encompasses those polymers which are produced by the physical or chemical manipulation of production environments. However, depending on the terms origination, it does not strictly include those polymers produced by biological manipulating. For this reason, it is best to classify such polymers as ‘partially synthetic biopolymers. Through the chemical and physical manipulation of production environments, a large variety of biopolymers have been synthesised. Each of these newly developed biopolymers are available with unique and beneficial properties, along with the ability to biodegrade and provide a renewable source of plastic like material. Reasons why biopolymers may become increasingly important in society: Petroleum derived plastics have formed an integral relationship with modern society, providing a cheap, convenient and durable method for developing numerous consumer goods and other products. The negative impacts associated with plastic favour the use of biopolymers. Such impacts, along with other factors, involve: An overuse of non-biodegradable plastics. These plastics are produced at a rate of over 100million tonnes per year- consumption patterns which have lead to serious problems concerning environmental pollution, waste management and danger to animals. An uncertainty about the future resources of the petrochemical industry. This industry may become obsolete or produce goods too expensive for mainstream consumption. The initiatives of recycling have failed to make any great progress over the previous decades. The recent success of biocompatible plastics which have revolutionised the medical industry. The ability to use industrial waste (such as food waste) as a substrate for biopolymer production. This has the added benefit of improving waste usage and reducing other forms of pollution and treatment. Burning of electronic waste (e-waste) to recover the precious metals contained in chips and circuits. With the continued exponential growth of the electronics industry, the illegal practice of secretly burning e-waste releases many toxic gases, especially if coated in PVC. For these reasons, much interest has arisen in the design and development of biodegradable, renewable, practical and economically viable biopolymers to replace the synthetic plastics consumed today. The new age of renewable energy and waste management have resulted in great emphasis on the future of biopolymers and the relative efficiency of their production. Selected Biopolymer: PHB is a biopolymer belonging to a group of biopolymers called polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA). It is also classified as a polyester due to containing an ester functional group. PHB is synthesised by the polymerisation of (R)-3-hydroxybutynl-CoA. PHB is produced by bacteria as the result of physiological stress. During this process PHB acts as an energy storage molecule to be used later when other energy sources are depleted. The most common form of PHB is poly-3-hydroxybutyrate,(as shown in the above diagram), however discussed below are the generalised notes for all PHB isomers. PHB was first discovered in 1925 by Maurice Lemoigne who concluded that bacteria could produce polyesters. However Maurices discovery was not officially recognised as PHB until its rediscovery in 1957. This stimulated much interest in the future of biopolymers, an interest which has reignited in recent years due to the environmental debate and uncertain future of the petrochemical industry. Using traditional production methods, up to 80% of the dry weight of the bacteria can be composed of PHB. Properties of the biopolymer 100% biodegradable in both aerobic and anaerobic environments Biocompatible the polymer can be naturally incorporated into and decomposed by the human body Thermoplastic Piezoelectric produces an electric potential when compressed 8 Low thermal stability 9 Ultra violet resistance 10 High melting point 175C8 Low resistance towards acids and bases 10 Transparent and lustrous High crystallinity structural arrangement 8 Stiff 8 More dense then water 10 Brittle depends on the level of crystallinity 8 Does not have chain branching it is isotactic (uniform structure) and therefore flows well during processing8 Is not soluble in water hydrophobic 8 Has a low permeable level (penetration) for oxygen, water and carbon dioxide8 Uses or potential uses of the biopolymer Relationship between uses and properties PHB could become the new material for use in bottles, bags, wrapping, nappies and other disposables where biodegradability is a concern Due to the biodegradability of PHB in both aerobic and anaerobic environments (both in the presence or lack of oxygen) there is a great incentive for the potential replacement of the polymers derived from petrochemicals. PHB is also hydrophobic, has low permeability by oxygen, water and CO2, has UV resistance, high melting point, and is isotactic properties which make PHB a suitable replacement for many plastic products. PHB can be used as a medical tool. These include surgical implants, treads and coatings. In medical applications, PHB is biocompatible with the blood and tissues of humans and other mammals. The normal metabolism of humans produces the monomer of PHB, (R)-3-hydroxybutynl-CoA,and thus does not reject the polymers use as a medical tool. Surgical implants and threads all reabsorb into the body. In the pharmaceutical industry, PHB can coat capsules and provide slow or controlled drug release. The property of biocompatibility allows this process to occur. Also, a low permeability for O2 and H2O allows it to be released slowly. The electronics industry currently burns the plastic (usually PVC) coatings around chips and circuits to retain precious metals. PHB could provide an alternative which prevents toxic gases being released by this practice. Due to the property of biodegradability, special treatment facilities could be established to extract the precious metals in an environmentally friendly manner. Potential benefits of the biopolymer to society and the environment Environmental impacts: Recycling plastic as an alternative to environmental pollution and landfill usually requires more energy compared to creating new plastic. A biopolymer with the ability to biodegrade, such as PHB, removes the need to consider the less energy efficient recycling method. Burning waste plastic to harness energy is an option towards to landfill issue, but this releases toxic gases and increases carbon dioxide concentration in the atmosphere. Conversely, biological polymers form part of a natural cycle whereby carbon dioxide and water are used during photosynthesis and released during natural decomposition. The ability to synthesise PHB from a wide variety of carbon rich sources means that a secondary use or market can be found for some waste products. Using substrates such as industrial food waste and molasses from sugar processing reduces the need for the treatment and disposal of such wastes. The complete changeover to PHB from normal petroleum derived plastics would reduce landfill volumes by approximately 20%, given this is the percentage composition of plastics in our rubbish. This would reduce overall volumes of pollution. Societal impacts: PHB and other biopolymers have revolutionised the medical industry. PHB is biocompatible with human blood and tissues, and readily reabsorbs into the body objects such as implants and threading. The biopolymer can also be used as a material for slow releasing drugs. Improvements in this field are inevitable. Petrol derived plastics can be carcinogenic. Examples include those containing benzene and vinyl chloride. PHB is a safer material for use in containers and drink bottles where this is an inconclusive concern. Reducing the volume of landfill by 20% has the social benefit of increasing overall domestic, commercial and industrial land use. It also reduces the public ‘eyesore the landfill creates. Production of PHB using food substrates can have negative societal impacts. A higher demand for substrates which form the staple diet of developing countries may reduce the ability of these countries to purchase this food. Such a consequence would worsen the food shortages of these developing countries. HSC Chemistry Assessment Task 1: Biopolymers Current problems with the biopolymer HSC Chemistry Applying PHB as a substitute material for petroleum derived synthetic plastics would cost substantially more and offer no real performance advantages other than its biodegradability. In the production of PHB four major factors influence overall cost: the price of the substrate the effective yield achieved from that substrate the price of other input factors tedious production procedures such as the need for a pure culture of alcaligenes eutrophus The cost of harvesting the PHB directly from alcaligenes eutrophus costs approximately $8/kg. This is substantially more than the $1/kg production cost for most oil based plastics. These high costs are reflected in the relative costs of different substrates. The cost of the petrochemical substrate for polypropylene is US$0.185/kg of polypropylene . This is a large variation compared to the prices of different PHB substrates given in the following table: Substrate effectiveness based on substrate costs and yield of PHB Substrate Price of substrate (US$/kg) Yield (kg/kg of substrate) Substrate Cost (US$/kg of PHB) Glucose 0.493 0.38 1.350 Sucrose 0.295 0.40 0.720 Methanol 0.180 0.430 0.420 Acetic Acid 0.595 0.380 1.560 Ethanol 0.502 0.500 1.000 Molasses 0.220 0.420 0.520 Cheese whey 0.071 0.330 0.220 Corn Starch 0.220 0.185 0.580 Hemicellulose 0.069 0.200 0.340 In addition to the economical restraints of PHB, various mechanical issues are also apparent: PHB is stiff and brittle compared to polyethylene and polypropylene. This has hindered its wide acceptance as a practical replacement for these materials. Brittleness is directly related to the degree of crystallinity in the material. At room temperature, over time, secondary crystallisation occurs and the material becomes more brittle. The polymer chains degrade during processing The effect of the mass production of PHB on the environment has not been thoroughly investigated. While the material is biodegradable and renewable, major environmental consequences not yet identified may exist. Properties/production processes which need further research The main directions of improvement and research into modifying PHB and/or its production process can be classified into two categories: HSC Chemistry 1. Methods which involve the physical or chemical manipulation of production environments: Adding lubricants and plasticisers to prevent degrading of chains during processing. Researching new bacteria which naturally produce plasticisers along with the biopolymer to address the issue of brittleness. Such progress would directly reduce the production costs as the plasticisers otherwise added are expensive. Suppression of the secondary crystallisation that occurs over time Making products that are programmed degradable a biopolymer that allows you to control when and how it degrades. This will insure that the biopolymer remains practical while still in use. Investigating the influence of additives on PHB degrading and level of brittleness Increasing the productivity of processing techniques such as: Extrusion: the process in which blends are mixed to create a uniform product Injection moulding: the process of injecting the molten polymer into a mould to solidify Investigating which solvents used in the extraction process are most productive and efficient Distinguishing methods which decrease the production time. Time means money, and the time taken by the bacteria to produce PHB is an economical factor hindering its commercial use.

Malaysia

Introduction 1Malaysia is not a new concept or formula. Rather, the ultimate goal of 1Malaysia, which is national unity, has been the main vision of our country’s leaders before Najib, and has been interpreted in various shapes and forms over the span of five decades of Independence. If we truly study it, what has changed is the approach and implementation according to the ever-changing times and generations. (1Malaysia Booklet, 2009) In other words, 1Malaysia is a concept to foster unity amongst the multi-ethnic people of Malaysia, substantiated by key values that every Malaysian should observe.The approach is not independent of the Government’s policies thus far; instead it complements them to further reinforce our solidarity in order to guarantee stability towards achieving higher growth and development for Malaysia and the people. This means that 1Malaysia is a formula conceptualised as a precondition in ensuring the aspirations of the country to secure a developed status by 2020 are met, if it is inculcated in the minds of the people and practiced by the entire community.If the idea of â€Å"Bangsa Malaysia† which was engendered through Vision 2020 becomes the final destination, then 1Malaysia is the roadmap that guides us towards that destination. This definition is built upon the argument that in order achieve the status of a developed nation in the predetermined time frame, the key requisite is a strong and stable country, which can only be achieved when its people stand united. On the other hand 1Malaysia values and respects the ethnic identities of each community in Malaysia, and proudly regards them as an asset or advantage. Malaysia underlines the value of â€Å"Acceptance† amongst its multi-racial people, where one race embraces the uniqueness of other races so that we may live with mutual respect for each other as a nation. It is a distinct step above that of mere tolerance. The foundation for all this is the principle of justice for all, which means that the welfare of all Malaysians will be looked after, leaving no one behind. Such justice must take into account the varying levels of development of each ethnic community.Hence, government policies and provisions in the Constitution that protect the interests of disadvantaged groups will continue to be implemented. 1Malaysia will continue the agenda of nation-building. To achieve growth for the nation, the people must be the first to be developed, which must begin by instilling a sense of acceptance amongst races, and therefore undivided solidarity. When solidarity is achieved, the task of nation-building can truly and smoothly be carried out. The 1Malaysia formula is conceptualised for implementation in two main aspects.The first is through the assimilation of the Principles of Unity, while the second aspect is the assimilation of Aspirational Values. The Principles of Unity are the three items I had earlier detailed; the first, â€Å"acceptance † amongst all races and peoples of Malaysia; the second, nationalistic principles built upon the Federal Constitution and the Rukun Negara; and thirdly, social justice. These Principles are supported by wholesome values that must be inculcated as part of Malaysian culture, including values such as mutual respect, Tawaddhu', humility and astuteness in forming decisions and actions.The second aspect of the 1Malaysia formula highlights elements that must be practiced by any society seeking to achieve greater competitiveness and success. These elements comprise A Culture of Excellence in performing all duties and responsibilities; A Culture of Precision in terms of time management and improving efficiency; Courage to innovate and explore new opportunities. Meritocracy in assigning tasks to those best fit to execute them in accordance with the Federal Constitution and national policy; unwavering Loyalty to our country; Perseverence in the face of adversity of any kind and Integrity in all matters and transactions.The inculcation of these Aspirational Values will distinguish us as a powerful, respected and admired Malaysian Community, befitting the identity of a thriving and developed nation. In delivering its commitment to the Rakyat, the government presented the theme â€Å"People First, Performance Now† as part of the 1Malaysia concept. This theme signifies that while reinforcing the call for unity amongst Malaysians, the government will also prioritise issues that the people feel strongly about. The government also places great weight upon the performance and results of all public servants when engaging with the people.In other words, the government recognises the importance of the efficiency and quality of public service in enhancing the quality of life for the people, hence the adoption of a people-friendly approach in all government agencies is critical. In view of this, a Key Performance Index (KPI) will be implemented in all government matters, beginning with the KPI monitoring exercise for all Ministers. A Minister in the Prime Minister's Department is already assigned specifically to ensure the smooth implementation of the KPI.The Minister responsible will provide further details on the KPI and a detailed system of implementation to fulfil this government objective. Such initiatives are expected to produce significant changes not only in government administration, but more importantly to lead to the betterment of the Malaysian people's standard of living. Above all, 1Malaysia â€Å"People First, Performance Now† is expected to generate a definitive transformation, towards an advanced Malaysian nation, underpinned by a firmly united people, and esteemed by the world.The media must assume the responsibility to help the government to bring progress and renewal to the country. The media also had the responsibility to safeguard the peace in the country as well as the renewal and progress attained by the people. We hav e to continue doing what our forefathers did to bring progress and renewal to the country. We cannot merely bring progress and renewal but have to initiate a quantum leap, and the media has the responsibility to help in this transformation. This leap demands understanding and openness.Emotions and sentiments must be set aside or the effort to achieve the leap will be difficult. The media should act responsibly when safeguarding the rights of any community, and it should also safeguard the rights of all Malaysians as well. The 1Malaysia concept, proposed is pivoted on the federal Constitution and the Rukun Negara. Besides that, put forward the principles which encompass the responsible attitude which must be practised. We have to appreciate the principle of 1Malaysia in order to build a more progressive country. We have to be fair to all the communities.This is not merely something which we want but it is that which is demanded by Islam. The era of the government knowing better has e nded, and we now have to interact with everyone. And for this, the media must understand the government’s thinking and vice versa. Foundation of 1Malaysia concept Based on National Unity Ultimate Objective Of 1Malaysia, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak reiterated that 1Malaysia was not a new concept or formula and that its ultimate objective of national unity was the main vision of past leaders of the country, albeit in various forms. National Unity Ultimate Objective Of 1Malaysia, 2009) 1Malaysia is a formula which serves as a prerequisite to ensure realisation of the country's aspiration to achieve developed nation status by 2020 if it is assimilated in the people and practised by society. The 1 Malaysian or a member of Bangsa Malaysia, if one prefers; pursues excellence with full confidence and with pride in himself and his country, behaves democratically, holds himself to high ethical standards. (National Unity Ultimate Objective Of 1Malaysia, 2009)Feels that he/ she belongs to the nation despite his/her cultural exceptionality, contributes to the scientific and technological civilisation that awaits mankind, is family-oriented, cares for the welfare of others and seeks to reduce economic inequality, and works hard. (National Unity Ultimate Objective Of 1Malaysia, 2009) The concept 1Malaysia is based on three main thrusts; nationalistic principles based on the Federal Constitution, Rukun Negara and social justice. Rukun Negara is fundamental to all policies and nation-building. Malaysia concept uphold all the fundamental provisions of the Federal Constitution and Rukun Negara because it’s main objective is national unity and has been exists after Independence as it has been the main vision of our country’s leader before Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak and has been interpreted in various shapes and forms over the span of five decades of Independence. (Rafini Othman, personal communication, 16th September 2009) If we tr uly study it, what has changed is the approach and implementation according to the ever-changing times and generations.It’s a matter of â€Å"rebranding†. (Rafini Othman, personal communication, 16th September 2009) The â€Å"Malaysian Malaysia† ideology is not the same as the â€Å"1 Malaysia† concept although both were aimed at building one nation. The ‘Malaysian Malaysia' ideology espouses that all ethnic groups have equal rights with none having special rights. This is against the Federal Constitution; Article 153 of the Constitution which stipulates the special rights of the Malays and other Bumiputeras as well as the position and rights of the other races in the country.The idea of a â€Å"Malaysian Malaysia† proposed by the Opposition, championed by the DAP and before that, the PAP under Lee Kuan Yew when Singapore was part of Malaysia. It specifically provides special quotas for the Malay and other indigenous peoples of Malaysia in ad mission to the public service, awarding of public scholarships, admission to public education institutions and the awarding of trade licences. It also authorises the government to create Malay monopolies in particular trades. (Rafini Othman, personal communication, 16th September 2009)Unlike that idea, 1Malaysia did not deviate from the basic ideas and spirit of the Federal Constitution. People shouldn’t fear or cast aspersions on the concept because 1Malaysia seeks to ensure that the ethnic identity of each race is respected. This means that every race respects each other and understands their unique differences. Only then can unity be achieved. The people must progress first before the country can achieve development. (Rafini Othman, personal communication, 16th September 2009)Unity as envisioned through the 1Malaysia concept varies greatly from the assimilation concept practiced in other countries where the ethnic identities are wiped out and replaced with one homogeneous national identity. It is also clearly distinct from the opposition’s concept of Malaysian Malaysia. 1Malaysia does not deviate from the spirit of our Federal Constitution as the law of the state, written or implied. In fact, the 1Malaysia concept remains faithful to the core provisions within the Federal Constitution, Therefore, no one should fear or cast aspersions hat the concept the concept will deviate from what has been agreed upon by our founding fathers. 1Malaysia slogan’s, â€Å"People First, Performance Now† Based on National Unity Ultimate Objective Of 1Malaysia, in implementing its commitment to the people, the government had coined the slogan â€Å"People First, Performance Now†. (National Unity Ultimate Objective Of 1Malaysia, 2009) The theme means that in emphasising the importance of unity among Malaysians, the government will also give preference to issues regarded as important by the people.The government also stresses on performance and achievement by all civil servants in their dealings with the people. (National Unity Ultimate Objective Of 1Malaysia, 2009) In other words, the government understands very well how important civil service efficiency and quality are in improving the living standard of the people and, as such, all government agencies will give priority to the people-friendly approach. In this connection, the Key Performance Index (KPI) would be applied in government matters, starting with the KPI monitoring for all ministers.Our Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak begins to reshape the leadership and priorities of the Government. He is mindful that we should build on the successes and lessons of the past. It must be a government with new approaches for new times; a government that places a priority on performance, because the people must come first. Both of it are the same and media do not focus only on 1Malaysia but also on the slogan in balancing the priority of both of it as it comes out mutu ally and supports each other equally.If Malaysians had included the values of the concept in their lives, it meant that the ministry had achieved its key performance indicator (KPI). The terms of KPI and KRA (key result areas) have to understand these two terms to convey the 1Malaysia goal. (Rafini Othman, personal communication, 16th September 2009) Key Preformance Index (KPI) is aim at boosting the performance of the civil service. The KPI encompasses six Key Result Areas (KRA) including crime prevention efforts and the fight against corruption.Other KRA include efforts to widen access to quality and affordable education, uplift the standard of living for the lower-income group, improve the infrastructure in the rural and remote areas, as well as to improve public transport for the medium term. By incorporating KRA in achieving KPI, it helps to expedite the acceptance of the 1Malaysia concept among Malaysians. KPI have direction to take on 1Malaysia to achieve its objective and it is up to the people to accepting it. KPI have to convince the people and do follow up with the progress. (Rafini Othman, personal communication, 16th September 2009)The adoption of a people-friendly approach in all government agencies was also critical as the government recognised the importance of the efficiency and quality of public service in enhancing the quality of life for the people. The government also placed great weight on the performance and results of all public servants when engaging with the people. (Rafini Othman, personal communication, 16th September 2009) Key Performance Index (KPI) will be implemented in all government matters, beginning with the KPI monitoring exercise for all Ministers.A Minister in the Prime Minister's Department is already assigned specifically to ensure the smooth implementation of the KPI. The Minister responsible will provide further details on the KPI and a detailed system of implementation to fulfil this government objective. KPI will pa y off and change not only in government administration, but more importantly to lead to the betterment of the Malaysian people's standard of living in acceptance of 1 Malaysia. With the right procedure that will be monitor by responsible minister that also aim on the objective of 1Malaysia.By that, this will expedite the progress of achieving 1Malaysia as it is expected to generate a definitive transformation, towards an advanced Malaysian nation, underpinned by a firmly people, and esteemed by the world. (Rafini Othman, personal communication, 16th September 2009) Above all, â€Å"1Malaysia People First, Performance Now† is expected to generate a definitive transformation towards an advanced Malaysian nation, underpinned by a firmly united people, and esteemed by the world. â€Å"When we know what the national KPIs are, the people will be able to measure the Government’s efforts and performance.They can also give their views and suggestions on how we can achieve thes e national KPIs. This was a reflection of the government’s intention to have more effective and meaningful achievement as demanded by the people. Issues On 1 Malaysia There are a lot of issues arises when the â€Å"1 Malaysia† concept has been introduced by the Malaysian Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Najib Abd. Razak. The most controversial issue that came up is the equality between 1 Malaysia and â€Å"Malaysian Malaysia† concept. Malaysian Malaysia had been brought by the DAP on 1960.Opposition parties have claimed it mirrored the Malaysian Malaysia concept championed by the DAP and, before that, the PAP under Lee Kuan Yew when Singapore was part of Malaysia. Malaysian Malaysia has been introduced with the purposed of espoused equality for all Malaysian. According to the Malaysian Insider, Datuk Seri Najib had explained that the concept of 1 Malaysia created by him is not the same as the concept Malaysian Malaysia. For Prime Minister, 1 Malaysia means the Malaysi an standing, thinking and acting as one Malaysian with the way of performing action based on the agreement of the entire ethnic group in our country. Figuring out One Malaysia, 2009) Madam Rafini, a journalist in RTM said that 1 Malaysia is totally different from the Malaysian Malaysia concept even though the policy is almost the same. The DAP’s concept is more to giving the sameness right to all the Malaysian no matter what races they are. But, 1 Malaysia is more to encouraged people to think, work and having achievement together as a Malaysian. In addition, it is hopefully that it will bring unity to all races in Malaysia. Rafini Othman, personal communication, 16th September 2009) Besides that, the slogan created had brought misinterpretation to some people. They claiming that 1 Malaysia is just a political gimmick and it will erode the privilege of Malays. Not long after the concept was introduced into the public domain, the ruling party and its media organisations moved to narrow the perimeters of the concept, concerned that it would signal the end of affirmative action and special privileges of the Malays. This has created an anxiety to the Malays and former Prime Minister; Tun Dr.Mahathir Mohammad had given his opinion on this issue. He said that he worried people will assume that 1 Malaysia means Malaysian Malaysia and people will misinterpret the true meaning of 1 Malaysia. (Is 1 Malaysia Just The New Malaysia Boleh, 2009) It is strange for some people to argue on the 1 Malaysia slogan by giving nonsense concern that Malays going to lost the privilege rights in our own motherland. It is also said that all this controversy is created by the opposition parties that want to bring down the government (1 Malaysia Untuk Semua, 2009).They use this slogan as a silent weapon to influence people mind about the trick behind this slogan. The truth is how Malays can lose their privilege and specialties if DAP own self – which have a complot with PAS and Parti Keadilan Rakyat – totally accepting the â€Å"Perlembagaan 1957† that had guaranteed all the special privilege rights of the Malays? (1 Malaysia Untuk Semua, 2009) Madam Rafini said it all depend on the Malaysian how they interpret this concept, if they accepting it positively, then it will be something good. Mentality of our people plays a big role in this issue.She also said that the government cannot make a decision for the Malaysian, but Malaysian itself have to decide on their own which one is right and which one is wrong (Rafini Othman, personal communication, 16th September 2009) For the media, they can only broadcast and spread the truth idea of 1 Malaysia by using the medium they have like television, radio and newspaper. Madam Rafini also giving her suggestion to clear the misinterpretation to some people by inviting some one that understands this concept very clearly, such as the minister to giving a talk or explanation about the truth of 1 Malaysi a. Rafini Othman, personal communication 16th September 2009) The opposition parties also accused that it is just a â€Å"cheap† slogan use by the government to trick people and they still want to play with sensitive issue such as races to weaken the government. But, our people nowadays are very smart and they can think on their own what the best is. The media also playing part by spreading the truth about this concept and explaining clearly to the Malaysian that 1 Malaysia is actually means no one in the country will be sidelined but affirmative action policies will continue.Role Of The Media To Educate People About 1 Malaysia Since 1 Malaysia concept has been introduced by the prime minister, there are a lot of opinions and variety of views from people. We can see that different people have a different interpretation about this 1 Malaysia concept, some agree and some not. This concept has its own pro and cons. So, what the media can do to educate the public about the truth of this concept? According to Madam Rafini, the broadcast journalist in Radio Television Malaysia (RTM), media plays a very important part in educating the public about this intelligent idea.As a journalist, she said she can write and produce some opinion pieces about 1 Malaysia concept and it can be read by the public. The media need to broadcast more news that related to 1 Malaysia. They need to deliver something positive and accurate to us. (Rafini Othman, personal communication, 16th September 2009) Besides that, the media can also broadcasting some talk show, for example with the minister with the purpose to explain deeper about this concept. She add that RTM already have this kind of program called â€Å"Bersama Menteri† and they also have a new program called â€Å"Bicara Siswa†.This talk show invited some young generation and representative from high education institution in Malaysia to talk about serious issue inside this country (Rafini Othman, personal commu nication, 16th September 2009). So, in this way we can get comments and interpretation from the youth perspective. In addition, Madam Rafini also said that advertisement can be a very effective medium to promote this concept (Rafini Othman, personal communication, 16th September 2009).Nowadays, we can see a lot of 1 Malaysia advertisement had been started to publish in the public area such as on the advertisement board at the highway, bus station, newspapers and others. Advertisement is a very efficient way to persuade people. The advertisement showed in the television is the best method to persuade people. Some television commercial that shows the unity of all races in Malaysia can help people to understand clearer about this concept. This creativity weapon can plant good moral values to the Malaysian. Our youth is the next generation that will inherit this country.So, they are one of the main targets to practice this concept in their life. But, it is not an easy job to attract the interest of the youngster. That is why the media has come up with one initiative to attract the youngster by creating 1 Malaysia songs. Right now, there are some versions of 1 Malaysia songs that has been listened by the public. Most of this song was sang by popular artist that our youth admired of. As a result, it is hope that our younger generation will be attracted and understand deeper about the exact meaning of 1 Malaysia. 1 Malaysia Acceptance towards Society and EducationIn terms of the acceptance of people of Malaysia regarding the concept of 1 Malaysia, our former prime minister, Tun Dr Mahathir personally told his opinion that nearly 40 percent of Malaysian people still do not know and understand about the concept of 1 Malaysia. He feels that 1 Malaysia is more to political slogan rather than managing the aspirations of different races. He personally still does not see our different races community adapt this concept to their daily life A recent survey by Merdeka Centre a lso showed that 78 per cent were aware of the concept but 39 per cent still did not know what it means. Is 1 Malaysia Just The New Malaysia Boleh, 2009) We ask Madam Rafini about the big roll that journalist and the media plays in shaping Malaysian’s minded and how exactly the media helps our government to send this message clearly to Malaysian people. She admit that in Malaysia, the media is the biggest medium in giving any important message or introduce a new aspirations concept towards Malaysian people, she add that media will interprets the concept in a simple way or subliminal way.She said that the most common way in media is by using the variety of advertisement and message through the various medium like radio, internet, and most commonly television. (Rafini Othman, personal communication 16th September 2009). We can see when a new concept is being introduce, there will be a new advertisement that will be shown in the television to show our people about the reality of the new concept and how it is actually connected with our daily life. Most of the concept that are being introduce in Malaysia, it will always something that have a powerful connection in our daily life and the harmony of our country.She said that there were many advertisements that were shown everyday in the media especially in television regarding this concept. There is also advertisement that was created in more subliminal ways. This is one of the effective ways to make our people realize and think for a while about what is the concept is all about. The process also takes the whole of media team to adapt the new concept so that they can connect it in the variety of programmes that is shown in the media. In other aspect, the media is the biggest medium to spread the new concept by introducing the concept more in the media.We can see that now every single thing in the media at least will be connected to the concept starts from news telecast until other programs. Madam Rafinni said we as a media will always try to produce a good massage but the entire acceptance depends on our Malaysian people themselves. The media is just the medium to interpret a very good concept that is suitable to our country. One example that we can take is when the media produce a competition to everyone to create a song that represent one Malaysia. This shows how the media is serious to commercialize the concept. Rafini Othman, personal communication, 16th September 2009) In other aspect, some Malaysian thinks that 1 Malaysia is just a political gimmick. We ask Madam Rafini if the concept will still be seen as a gimmick or it will give some impact towards Malaysian. In this case, she said that maybe the ‘gimmick’ term came from other people or other parties that not agreed with our government. Realistically, 1 Malaysia is still a new strong concept that has been produce by our new prime minister. She said it all depends on the people themselves on how they want to accept t he concept.If they are a smart person, why we want to condemn a good and relevant concept? (Rafini Othman, personal communication,16th September 2009) Madam Rafini personally feels that most of our Malaysian people are getting used to the concept rather than take it just as a gimmick. The concept will leave a permanent impact to Malaysian if it flows well towards our community. The media will always help in finding a person that specialist in this kind of concept to provide good information to publics. (Rafini Othman, personal communication, 16th September 2009)In terms of academic, International Trade and Industry Deputy Minister Datuk Mukhriz Mahathir said that through this concept, multiracial students could mingle and interact more effectively. He suggests that it can be done by making Bahasa Malaysia, Mandarin, and Tamil as elective subject (Single Stream School Can Make 1 Malaysia a Success, 2009). We ask Madam Rafini if the concept could be accept by our younger generations a nd how it could bring our younger generations together? She said that in term of education process, it is more to long term planning and it all depends on how it will be execute.If they are serious to execute it in our education system, we have to start from the roots. Start from pre – school to secondary school and our primary school. It will slowly educate our younger generations towards the real 1 Malaysia (Rafini Othman, personal communication, 16th September 2009). Our younger generations have to be smart. The concept is being introduced for a good reason to help our unity and to develop our country. So it all depend on the way is it carry out and our younger generations have to be positive in accepting it. ConclusionThe simple fact is that Malaysia has been exposed to several slogans from the time Dr Mahathir was prime minister in 1981. Each time, a slogan or concept has been introduced Malaysians have greeted it with optimism, hoping that it would signal a new dawn, a better Malaysia. 1 Malaysia is an intelligent idea that has been created by Malaysian Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak. It had brought so many opinions and interpretations in variety of perspectives. One thing for sure, this latest slogan is going to provoke some defiances but, it is also going to be a medium that will rouses people to a great unity in Malaysia. 1Malaysia People First, Performance Now† is expected to generate a definitive transformation towards an advanced Malaysian nation, underpinned by a firmly united people, and esteemed by the world. This was a reflection of the government’s intention to have more effective and meaningful achievement as demanded by the people. Thus, lead to the betterment of the Malaysian people's standard of living in acceptance of 1 Malaysia. It is also clearly distinct from the opposition’s concept of Malaysian Malaysia. 1Malaysia does not deviate from the spirit of our Federal Constitution as the law of the sta te, written or implied.In fact, the 1Malaysia concept remains faithful to the core provisions within the Federal Constitution. Therefore, no one should fear or cast aspersions that the concept the concept will deviate from what has been agreed upon by our founding fathers. When 1 Malaysia has been recognised, a lot of issues arise against this slogan. There are some people has misinterpret this slogan claiming that 1 Malaysia slogan mirrored the Malaysian Malaysia concept. Besides that, it is also said that this slogan is just a political gimmick that will erode the special privilege of Malays.The government also have to face the defying created by the opposition parties that accused 1 Malaysia concept is just a cheap slogan that will bring more harm to the people. Although, there are a lot of issues that against the concept, it’s all depend on the individual acceptance viewpoint of this concept. It begin from perception of people how they think it is, either its good or bad concept. But, our prime minister has given his explanation about the truth idea of this concept to clear all the misinterpretation.But, the truth is 1 Malaysia is actually means no one in the country will be sidelined but affirmative action policies will continue. When talking about 1 Malaysia, role of the media is very important in spreading the truth idea of this concept. From this research, we found out that media can help to educate people about 1 Malaysia by writing and publishing some article and broadcasting more news that related to 1 Malaysia. In addition, the media can also inviting the minister to explain about this concept in a talk show to ensure the complete clarification is given.Moreover, advertisement and song of 1 Malaysia is believed can attract younger generation to practise this concept in their daily life. However, no matter how much initiative done by the media to educate people, its all depend on their self because for sure, different people have their own in terpretation about 1 Malaysia. In other expect, some Malaysian feels that 1 Malaysian is just political gimmick rather than something that will give some impact towards our society. From our interviewed, we can conclude that the gimmick terms may come from other political parties and some organizations that not really agreed with our government.Actually, the percentages of people that have the bad perceptions are not that much. Most of our Malaysian people are getting used to the concept rather than take it just as a gimmick. The media will always help in finding a person that specialist in this kind of concept to provide good information to publics and produce a programme that talks about this concept in more clear and specific ways. In the aspect of educations, the suggestions that Datuk Mukhriz Mahathir made about making Bahasa Malaysia, Mandarin, and Tamil as elective subject is a good move if we see it from long term planning.If we want to be serious about it, we have to take t he first move from the roots, starting from pre – school to secondary school and our primary school. It will slowly educate our younger generations towards the real 1 Malaysia. It all depends on the younger generations them selves. The process of education that will be executed in schools will play big rolls in shaping younger generations perceptions, if this concept continue for a long time, our generations will be ready to accept this concept beginning from the roots and will make up a good generations.In conclusion towards the acceptance of 1 Malaysia within our society, the real situations in our societies are not really bad. Even though our prime minister said that nearly 40 percent of Malaysia still does not know what 1 Malaysia means and he feels that it is more to political slogan rather than a real concept. Because in Malaysian media plays the biggest roles, we discovered that media always try to find the best solution to provide the best information and try to make our people give a good perceptions towards the concept. Media used lots of medium like radio, internet, and most commonly television.One of the common ways is by using the advertisement plus a variety of information programme. Another example is when the media produce a competition for everyone to create 1 Malaysian song. When we can see that now every single thing in the media at least will be connected to the concept starts from news telecast until other programs. Madam Rafini said we as a media will always try to produce a good massage but the entire acceptance depends on our Malaysian people themselves. The media is just the medium to interpret a very good concept.

Essay About Food Online For Free - Free Essay Example

Sample details Pages: 3 Words: 940 Downloads: 2 Date added: 2017/09/11 Category Food Essay Type Narrative essay Did you like this example? American Food Culture and Traditions From Around The World Introduction Culture is defined as the beliefs, customs, knowledge, and habits a set of people share (Smith, 15). These are learned and not inherited behaviors. Culture is transferred from families to families down the lines. Each tribal group has its specific culturally cuisines and food habits (Para 5). According to Terry, a cuisine is a particular set of cooking practices and traditions, often related with a definite culture (4). Each cuisine encompasses food preparation in a specific style, of drink and food of particular types, to produce exclusively expended items or individual meals. A cuisine is normally named after the place or region where it was invented (Para 3). American cuisine has been inclined by Native Americans and Europeans in its early history. When compared to the northern settlements, the southern settlements were quite assorted in their agricultural diet and neither did they have a central expanse of culture. In the 19th and 18th centuries, Americans came up with many new foods for instance; the Progressive Era (1890–1920) food presentation and production became more developed (Smith, 26). One trait of American cooking is the combination of multiple tribal or regional methodologies into entirely new cooking styles. During the 1980s, famous restaurants introduced method of combining cuisines that comprised of American styles of cookery with foreign essentials, universally referred as New American cuisine (Terry, 28). The modern cuisine of the United States in the 21st century is mostly regional in nature. In other words, the foods of ordinary culture have been affected by the presence of these distinct cultures hence; the American food is a blend of many cuisines and cultures. In order to understand it, one must not only study the native foods and food habits of the many marginal sets, but also the relations between the mainstream culture and the way of life of these minor groups (Smith ,35). Today, several foods are commonly considered as American, these are hamburgers, potato chips, hot-dogs, macaroni and cheese and meat loaf. There are also methods of cooking and forms of foods that are unique to a region. Southern-style cooking is called American comfort food and comprises of foods such as fried chicken. Tex-Mex, distinct in the Southwest and Texas, is a mix of Mexican and Spanish cooking cuisines and includes foods such as chili and burritos and depends heavily on frayed cheese and beans (Para,5). Majority American culinary methods are same to those in Western nations. Corn and wheat are the prime cereal grains. Traditional American cooking uses items such as turkey and indigenous foods used by American Indians and early European colonists. Italian-American cuisine often finally appears; in the form of Vietnamese cuisine, Thai cuisine, and Korean cuisine. German cuisine has a major impact on American cuisine, most especial ly mid-western cooking, with potatoes, roasts, noodles, stews and pastries being the most popular ingredients in both cuisines (Smith, 46). The state of Louisiana, for instance, is known for its Creole and Cajun cooking. Cajun and Creole cooking are affected by French, Haitian and Acadian cooking, although the foods themselves are unique and original (Para, 7). Soul food, established by African slaves during the colonial period, is widespread around the South and among African Americans. Americans commonly prefer coffee to tea, with approximately half the adult population drinking at least a cup a day. New England, also a cuisine in America is marked for having a major stress on seafood, a heritage inherited from coastal tribal groups like the Narragansett and Wampanoag, who similarly used the abundant fishing banks offshore for survival (Terry, 49). Meat is present though not as common, and is stewed in dishes. The Hawaiian and pacific cuisine is often considered to be one o f the most culturally varied in the U.S. states, and also being the only state with an Asian mainstream population (4). Resulting to the Hawaiian cuisine borrowing ingredients of a variety of cuisines, mainly those of Pacific-rim   and Asian cultures, as well as   native Hawaiian and a few adds from the Americans .Midwest Midwestern cuisine   in America, includes everything from barbecue to the hot dog Chicago-style. African impacts came with slaves from West Africa (Smith, 67). Foods such as eggplant, chili pepper and many varied kinds of melons were carried with them from along with the incredibly significant starter of rice to the Carolinas and later to Louisiana and Texas where it became main grain of the region and till today (Para, 6). Traditionally around the world. Italian Meal of the Seven Fishes, which originated from Southern Italy, has the Italian-American families celebrating the custom with multicourse seafood feasts of baccal, calamari and chockfull of seven kinds of fish (Morgan, 22). French reveillon is In French speaking countries. The feasts deep into the night and comprises of lobster, escargots, foie gras or oysters. Peruvian Noche Buena is found In Spain, the Philippines and Latin America. Peruvians decide on roast pig or turkey with a range of side foods like rice, fresh salads and apple sauce (Para 3). In the UK, Boxing Day, occasionally a day for awarding workers with presents, is celebrated after Christmas with a simple curry centric buffet mainly made from leftovers (Morgan, 35). German dinner goes down with roasted goose with potatoes, vegetables and confections like fruitcake. Irish dinner is similar to holiday feasts of the Americans; roasted poultry, potatoes, ham, and pudding are main meals. References Andrew F Smith. Eating history: 30 turning points in the making of American cuisine. New York: Columbia University Press, 2009. Print. Bryant Terry. Vegan Soul kitchen: fresh, healthy, and creative African Ameri can cuisine. Massachusetts: Da Capo Press, 2009. Print. James L Morgan. Culinary creation: an introduction to foodservice and world cuisine .Boston: Elsevier Butterworth-Heinemann, 2006. Print. Don’t waste time! Our writers will create an original "Essay About Food Online For Free" essay for you Create order

Gun Violence and its Effects - Free Essay Example

Sample details Pages: 9 Words: 2630 Downloads: 4 Date added: 2019/03/20 Category Society Essay Level High school Tags: Gun Violence Essay Did you like this example? Abstract Gun violence has had a highly negative impact in America, and has had an even greater impact on cities, communities, and individuals. The rising violent actions with guns have caused an increase of fear and deaths nationwide. My research shows the effects that gun violence has on the community and the people. Don’t waste time! Our writers will create an original "Gun Violence and its Effects" essay for you Create order One does not have to be older in years to be affected by the violence around them nor to detect it. Teens all around California answer the questions: Should stricter gun laws be put into place? Have you or anyone you know every been affected by gun violence? Do you know what steps to take to put stricter gun laws into place?, and had a consensus throughout all of the questions. Gun violence is created when people commit crimes with a use of gun and hurt others. There appears to be a variety of steps one can take for the diminishment of gun violence. Keywords: guns, violence, shots, death, injuries, California, Salinas, America Gun Violence and its Effects In Salinas, California, USA, and all around the world, gun violence has taken a toll on the daily lives of everyday people. Nobody is safe, no matter where he or she goes because gun violence can follow people into the most unsuspecting places. Even in dangerous neighborhoods, schools are thought to be one of the safest places for a person to be, especially during school hours. Every hour on school grounds there seems to be more than 2,000 confrontations that once ended with scratches and bruises that are now resulting in gunshot wounds and even death (Farrington, 1998). Gun violence can lead to drastic changes for individuals and even whole cities at any given time. It can ruin the reputation of some cities; to give an example, in Salinas, many people think the farther one goes into Salinas the higher the chances are for one to get shot (Goode. 2012). The National Steinbeck Center, John Steinbecks House, Natividad Creek Park, and Bankers Casino are some places in Salinas that are a must see, but many people do not get to visit them due to fear of the citys reputation. Economic development can also decrease when a citys reputation is all about violence. Gun violence can lead to the loss of lives resembling jail time or death. A man named Brad Azcona is losing the ability to live his life to a life sentence in prison because he tried to end the life of four people, in which he succeeded in two of those attempts (Ruben, 2018). Gun violence leads to the loss of opportunity, life, money and so much more. It can affect a whole city as much as it can affect one person. Discussion of Research The rapid growth of gun violence leaves drastic numbers that show the negative outcome it leads to. Thousands are killed yearly, be it intentional or not, and this has a grand effect on mental health issues, money problems, and the feeling of safety disappearing in homes and communities. Gun violence can change the way individuals feel and think, and these individuals can make up a community with integrated fears and unnecessary measures that have to be taken to feel somewhat safe. The gun to citizen ratio is also on the rise and the United States has a higher level of personal gun ownership when compared to other developed countries worldwide (Webster, pg. 5). Salinas is a prime example of a city in the need and want for help. The teens in Salinas have grown up with gun violence and want to take actions towards ending it because it has affected them at some point in their lives or they just do not want it to affect them or someone they know. Death Due to Gun Violence Gun violence is one of the top contributors for teen and child injuries and deaths in the United States. The statistics show that this type of violence rarely diminishes, instead it seems to be increasing drastically over the last few years due to guns being used in an unsafe and unethical way. An average of 124,760 people in America are shot in one year, but out of those 124,760 people, only around 89,620 of them survive. Around 17,207 children, aged from zero to 19 years old, are shot in the United States more than half survive and less than a 5th of the children have fatal injuries. Gun violence results in a loss of many lives daily and even greater one yearly in America. These rising stats also show an average of 7 out of 39 children are s hot and die daily in the U.S. and the average amount of people shot in one day is around 340 (Brady Campaign, n.d.). Not all gun-related deaths are intentional, to give an example, Azahel Cruz, 6, was getting ready for bed when he was shot and killed by a stray bullet that entered his East Salinas home in March 2015 (Goode, 2012). Many gun-related deaths are intentional and usually results of gang and domestic violence, suicides, and mental and emotional instabilities. These intentional deaths and injuries can be prevented and lessened if people took appropriate action and preventive measures to stop the deadly firearms from getting into the wrong hands. Effects on Students Many young adults and teens from 8th grade to college from the Monterey Bay county feel that gun violence has affected their lives or the lives of someone they know. In a self-administered survey of 76 teenagers and young adults in California showed that around 40% of the survey takers had experienced or knew someone that experienced gun violence (Appendix A). Almost 90% of the teens and young adults also believe those who want to own a gun should go through more procedures to gain that ability (Appendix B). Many of the teens and young adults want there to be more procedures for becoming a gun owner, but only around 60% of the teens know what steps are needed to make it harder to obtain a gun (Appendix C). There seems to be a various amount of reasons why stricter gun laws are n ot in place, and according to our survey takers People rather turn a blind eye to it and pretend like it doesnt affect them or doesnt even exist (Appendix D). A poll of 2,000 teens showed 1 in 8 teens have carried a gun for protection, 1 in 9 have cut classes or stayed at home due to fear of gun violence, 1 in 5 change their friendships to find safer ones, and almost half of them said they had made a change in their daily lives to avoid crime or violence. The teens rather avoid certain places, take different routes, change their friends, and go out of their way to avoid being caught in harms way (Farrington, 1998). Effects on Communities Communities can have culture, exciting sights to see, and anything one can imagine, but none of that matters if the community is feared by people for having a negative fame brought upon it with guns, deaths, and injuries. In 2009, Salinas had 29 homicides and 151 shootings, in 2010, there were 15 homicides, and in 2011 there were 12 homicides and 50 shootings which were an all-time low form the last decade. This lowering stats were a product of the city of Salinas plan to reduce violence in the whole country. The cutting of funds led to this program being cut, but new programs, that were more cost-efficient, were being created to try and reduce violence with the lower budget given (Goode, 2012). Once gun violence has become a daily, people start to lose the fear they once had of it and become desensitized to all of the police sirens and gunshots they hear. Violence, death, and injuries become a norm in the citizens daily lives and once this happens they forget their community ever ha d a problem. Community Stories Salinas is a place where violence can appear as a reoccurring issue for the city. This is why, it has so many bloody landmarks like the memorial of Enrique Sosa, Carlos Robles, and Moises Sanchez (Goode, 2012). The first homicide victim of this year was named, Enrique Sosa, also known as Kiki, who was a freshman at Everett Alvarez High School. He was shot by the inhabitants of a dark SUV on 7 January 2018, around 6:30 pm. The system ShotSpotter that detects gunshots led SPD to the crime scene where the paramedics later arrived and took Sosa to Natividad Medical Center. His gunshot wounds were fatal and he passed later that day in the hospital (Rubin, 2018). In the year of 2015, a 25-year-old man named Brad Azcona murdered two victims with fatal gunshot wounds in the month of September. Azcona shot at a man, who received injuries to his arm, 13 times in which the neighbors houses were struck with the bullets. Later, on 8 September 2015, Azcona shot Mois es Sanchez, 18, who was the driver of the vehicle, in the head and Carlos Robles, 16, who was the passenger and left them both with deadly gunshot wounds. Around two weeks after the deaths of Sanchez and Robles, Azcona was caught by surveillance footage trying to steal a mans tablet and pistol-whipping him after refusing to give him the tablet. Azcona was caught on 8 October 2015, after a twelve-hour standoff in a Salinas home against the SPD: He was charged with two counts of 1st degree murder, two counts of attempted murder, assault with a firearm, attempted robbery, negligent discharge of a firearm, and being a felon in possession of a firearm. The jury also found true a special circumstance that Azcona committed multiple murders (Wright, Par 2, 2018). Azcona was sentenced to many life sentences without the possibility of parole, 28 years, and four months in prison. (Wright, 2018) Personal Bias This topic caught my interest because even though I have never seen a gun up close in real life, I lost a long time family friend to gun violence. My friends name was Enrique Sosa and his life was taken away by force with the fatal gunshot wounds given to him at the beginning of this year. Salinas is my hometown, and I grew up in a relatively safe and quiet part of Salinas. There appears to be many places in Salinas that are more dangerous than others, and I wanted to hear the opinion other Salinas residents my age had. My survey revealed that we all had similar opinions and thoughts because we want our hometown to be safe and welcoming unlike it is now. Salinas is known as one of the most dangerous cities in the Monterey Bay Area and its climbing crime rates are no help. Gun violence is a big issue in Salinas just like gang violence is. Gangs use other forms of weapons, but one of the top choices are guns. Many innocent lives are lost yearly and daily due to being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Drive-bys kill many innocent people a year and injure many more. I wanted to research more on this subject to better understand my community and why we have so many issues. The research has opened my eyes to see everything from a different viewpoint. Before my friends death, I had never experienced gun violence, and I thought it was because I lived in a safe part of Salinas, when in reality anything can happen to anyone, no matter who or where you are. Implications for Future This issue has no easy fix, but there are steps one can take to help and put a start to the end of gun violence. There appears to be many precautions schools, businesses, and homeowners can take to prevent it from happening in their own building. Schools and businesses can have metal detectors at the entrances when entering the schools to ensure no weapons enter school grounds, and if a student or staff member shows certain signs such as isolation, family problems, having no ethics, weapon obsessions, standoffish manner, and showing no remorse, then they should be reported and dealt with right away to avoid people getting injured. Homeowners can also take many actions to avoid gun violence. To give an example, they can choose to not own a gun and if they do own a gun make sure everyone in the house knows how and when to appropriately use it and that everyone is mentally and emotionally stable. If there appears to be guns in the house make sure they are secured and not easily accessed by just anyone. Everyone and every place should have security cameras and always have at least two people lookin g at them to ensure nothing dangerous is going to happen or is happening. In Salinas, we can call our local representatives and tell them to pass legislation in Congress to ban assault weapons from getting onto our streets and we can vote for leaders that support gun regulations. Reflection This research has helped me understand my community in a more profound way. Gun violence affects my whole city, Salinas, and more people than just myself believe more gun laws should be created to keep us safer. I should have focused more on the aspect of solving the issues, the way people feel and think about gun violence, and avoided going down the path of the past stories. The past stories are a place to learn on how to put a stop to gun violence and to see how the community and people were affected, but not everyone related to the stories of the communities because it may have not affected them at all or they might have not even known about them. I also should have learned more in the aspects of creating awareness about gun violence. There are marches, speeches, and posters, but there seems to not be enough rallies about gun violence with intriguing activities for all ages. I should have found a solution to involve all people of all ages and genders, and just because it is a guy thing to talk and deal with guns, it does not mean the women in the communities should not take a stand nor the young adults and teens because they are looked at as unwise. Humans are made to look out for danger, from a young age one can detect where the danger is and where it is coming from. Survey I also surveyed students from 8th grade through college in California, and we all had similar viewpoints towards gun violence in our communities. I should have created another survey in which I sent out the question Would you like to get involved in taking a stand against gun violence? in which I later would send them an email on the laws they should vote on and a great way to get involved with their community and assist in the minimization of gun violence in their communities. The survey was a great success in seeing the opinions of other my age, and even though we are considered young, our communities still profoundly impact our lives and we want and need a say on what happens around us, our friends, and family. Dead-Ends The dead-end paths I went down where focusing on what gun violence is and how many it affected instead of what is causing it. I should have broadened my research to answer What are some solutions everyday people can take to get involved in to minimize the amount of gun violence in their neighborhoods?. I focused more on bring peoples attention to events that have already happened where I should have been ta lking about future events, so they could get involved and interact with their community and make it a safer one. It is good to hear the past stories to learn from history, but we need to see towards the future to find ways to change the negatives and take action with slow but steady steps.