To Kill a Mockingbird - A Book Review

The novel To Kill A Mockingbird revolves around a young girl named Jean Louise Finch who goes by the nicknamed "Scout". Scout experiences different events in her life that dramatically change her life. Scout and her brother Jem are being raised by their father, a lawyer named Atticus and a housekeeper named Calpumia in a small town in the south. At this point in time in the South racism and discriminations towards black was a big issue . The story begins when Scout is 6 years old, and her brother is about to enter the 5th grade. That summer Scout and her brother meet a young boy named Dill who comes from Mississippi to spend the summers there. They become fascinated with a man named "Boo" Radley, a man in his thirties who has not been seen outside of his home in years, mainly because of his suppressed upbringing. They have an impression of Mr. Radley as being this large ugly and evil man. Then comes the trial. Scout's father becomes a defense attorney for a black man, Tom Robinson, who is falsely accused of raping a white women. This has a big affect on Scout. During this trial she gets teased by friends because her father was helping this black man. Scout starts to see the racism that exist. During the trial Scout and her brother and close friend Dill witness the trial. Even though they are young they can see that Mr. Robinson is innocent. Even though Mr. Robinson's innocence was clear even in the eyes of kids, Mr. Robinson was still found guilty. Later in an attempt to escape, Mr. Robinson is shot dead. Scout is extremely disappointed at the verdict and even more at the death of Mr. Robinson and realizes the injustice that exist. Later in a cowardly attempt by the alleged rape victims father, tries to kill Scout and her brother in order to get even with her father for making him look back in court. This is when Mr.Radley makes an appearance again an stabs their attacker. Even though Mr. Radley kills a man he is not tried for murder because he was defending the Scout and her brother. Finally some justice. This gives Scout some hope that is a chance for improvement in this unjust world.

(Discussion of main themes in To Kill A Mockingbird)

There are many different themes present in To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee. The first theme which I will discuss is "Prejudice". The whole story revolved around the prejudice views of this Southern community. The whole reason why the trial was going on was because of people views towards blacks in the south. Since the alleged rape victim's father has such a prejudice view towards black, he is embarrassed that his daughter was actually flirting with a black man. To combat this he falsely accuses the innocent Mr. Robinson of rape. If it wasn't for the prejudice view which existed in the south the accusation would had never been brought against Mr. Robinson. These prejudice views in the south created a double standard of justice. With all the negative points that can be found in the story in respect to prejudice, there was a bright spot when it came to the prejudice issue. This "ray of light" came in the form of Scout's father Atticus. Atticus represented hope. Hope that good people still exist. Even in a society filled with hate. Atticus represented the hope that one day things can change

The "Prejudice" theme also ties in well with the title of the book "To Kill A Mocking Bird." In Chapter 10, Scout and Jem Finch get air rifles for Christmas. Scouts father tells her and her brother that it is a sin to kill a mockingbird because mockingbirds are harmless creatures who do nothing but sing for our enjoyment. In the story To Kill a Mockingbird Mr. Robinson is clearly the "Mocking Bird". He is a good man who has never harmed anyone and is figuratively and literally shot by society because of prejudice. The jurors sentence him to death not because he did anything wrong but because of prejudice. He is then later shot for trying to escape this unjust ruling. Mr. Robinson just like a mockingbird is shot for no reason at all.

The second theme which I will discuss is "coming of age". The "Coming of age" theme basically entails a character who evolves to a new level of self awareness through his or her experiences in life. This is clearly the case with Scout in To Kill a Mockingbird. An example of Scout's "coming of age" can be seen when she meets her friend Dill. Dill comes from a broken home and lives somewhere beyond Alabama. Scout who comes from a good home is awaken to the different quality of life that exist and is able to come to a conclusion that life exist beyond the world she knows. Through these experiences she grows more tolerant of others, learning how to "climb into another person's skin and walk around in it." On her first day of school she finds that just like with Dill there are both social and poor classes in society, some are respectable and others not. She also learns that her father is an extra-ordinary man, fighting for a Negro's rights in court. During the trial of Tom Robinson Scout learns about equality and inequality and finally about racial prejudice. By the final chapters of the novel, Scout goes to another "coming of age experience." She learns that good people can still suffer injustice. She realizes this when she see's Tom Robinson suffer injustice even though they did nothing to deserve it. She discover that the courts does not always result in justice. In the end after all of Scout's experiences and discoveries we get the sense that she will not follow the prejudice views which her society upholds. In the end Scout had matured and grown more as a kid, than many adults will do in there lifetime.

The third and final theme which I will discuss is "Justice". In the story To Kill a Mockingbird I feel,the author, Ms. Lee portrays true justice as being best seen through the eyes of the innocent. In the story Scout and her brother, being the innocent,can clearly see the injustice being done to Mr. Robinson. In contrary to Scout and her brother other people in society more specifically the older people in the town, the people who have lived through different experiences, become blinded when it comes to true justice. Or maybe they are not blinded but just choose to ignore it. This is clearly seen when they sentence an innocent man to death. This ignorance of justice can be blamed on the prejudice views which are present and eventually instilled in society in the south. So I feel that Harper Lee is connecting justice with innocence to a certain extent. In my opinion Harper Lee portrays justice as being easily detected. The reason I say this is even the young justice. The problem is society can instill beliefs that can act as a veil and blind the people from justice. The only way to uncover this veil is through people like Atticus who can pass his morality and nobility to the young and the "blinded"

(Would I recommend this book?)

I would definitely recommend people to read the book To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee. I found it to be an interesting and powerful book. I feel the book does a great job in portraying the extreme prejudice that existed in the south at that time. I feel this book makes a powerful statement on how justice can be altered through racism. I also think that the themes found in the book are themes which can still be found in our current society and that makes it the more interesting. You can even make a case that prejudice still has an effect in our legal system today. So if you are looking for a powerful book of "coming of age" and the battle for justice I would highly recommend To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee.

To Kill a Mockingbird - A Book Review   To Kill a Mockingbird - A Book Review   To Kill a Mockingbird - A Book Review   

Anfi Del Mar, Timeshare Capital of Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria, one of the most loved timeshare destination because of its endless "Red Week" status gained by constant sunshine and glorious heat. Hand-in-hand with timeshare ownership in Gran Canaria is Anfi Del Mar, the hub of some of the island's most highly regarded timeshare resorts. Seeing much of its custom from Scandinavia, Europe and the UK, Gran Anfi Del Mar promises the facilities and climate which contribute to the perfect holiday all year around.

Anfi Beach Club

The original Anfi Resort, Anfi Beach Club has, at its disposal a magnificent waterfront location, situated on the southwest coast of Gran Canaria. The panoramic vision of the Atlantic Ocean when peering out from the club, are lined beautifully by lush tropical gardens perfectly contributing to the feel of idyllic paradise.

Activities whilst on the club are wide ranging and those with a timeshare benefit from a variety of different pass times whilst they are there. From myriad sporting and leisure activities located in on the club and in the central Anfi Plaza or watersports and beach fun moments away.

Club Puerto Anfi

Similarly located to Anfi Beach Club, Puerto Anfi also faces the golden beaches and crystal deep-blue Atlantic Ocean. The true epicentre of the Anfi Del Mar Resort, you really couldn't be closer to the heart of the action here. From large pent house apartments, to luxury suites positioned atop the towers, Puerto Anfi aims to provide that "home-from-home" feeling whilst giving you all the facilities you'd expect.

The vivid tropical surroundings of Anfi Beach Club also benefit Puerto, building on the sight of pools, beaches and the marina. The nautical decor of the club reflects the theme of its location and hints at the aquatic pastimes of jet skies, scuba diving, fishing and even dolphin spotting - bliss!

Club Monte Anfi

The staggering sight of the bay that the Club Monte Anfi apartments provide are some of the best the island can offer. Monte Anfi is unique within the Del Mar resort because of its cliff-top location over the bay. Flower-lined balconies and vibrant greenery conjure the feeling of privacy and all-in-all more idyllic feel.

Bay views are accompanied by all the luxurious amenities and boastful facilities you'd expect from Anfi. Jacuzzi's, heated pools, shops, cafés and the Benito Mini Club will all help you acquire your own piece of heaven if you choose to buy timeshare in Gran Canaria.

Club Gran Anfi

The latest of the clubs at Anfi Del Mar, Gran Anfi promises people looking to buy timeshare with panoramic sights of the Atlantic Ocean and glorious countryside of the south-western side of the island. Also benefitting from Anfi Plaza, Gran Anfi has access to the resort's grand facilities and boasts plenty to do (or not should that be your taste) while you are there.

Club Gran Anfi operates in a different fashion from the Beach Club and Puerto Anfi as it offers a floating week system, which permits the owner to pick the week they want to spend in their timeshare each year. Floating weeks do come with a few provisos as to when and how you can use them, so it is worth enquiring with the resort first.

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Resale Vacation Property Vs New Vacation Home - Exactly Which Should You Buy?

In case you're considering a timeshare, among the first concerns you'll likely ask your self is "where will I select?" Should you spend money on your timeshare directly from the holiday resort? Or rather would you buy your getaway estate on the secondary market?

From the point of view of the majority of customers as well as pros, it usually makes greater economic sense to obtain a timeshare on the resale marketplace. Obtaining timeshare second-hand (from a prior owner, as opposed to immediately from the vacation spot) can help save thousands; every so often up to as high as 60% off resort developer prices. In numerous cases, a timeshare resale gives precisely the same amenities and accommodations a vacation resort has to offer, even while pricing loads less than the retail price.

Top Class Features:

Purchasing a resale timeshare doesn't necessarily suggest you're acquiring a "used" product. The most well known getaway companies worldwide play to a substantial number of timeshare resale owners. By buying on the secondary market you are able to obtain a lifetime of amenities at hospitality companies like Hilton Grand Vacations Club, Marriott Vacation Club, Disney Vacation Club, and Hyatt Vacation Club for a fraction of what you may waste to order direct, or on similar resort accommodations for a week's time.

Intelligent Choices:

On many occasions, second-hand purchasers happen to be more well informed shoppers. That's simply because when individuals decide to buy a timeshare on the second-hand market, as opposed to from a timeshare presentation, they've likely taken a bit of time to do research thoroughly and take into account their vacation getaway lifestyle. They realize that they'll be doing yearly vacations every year, so they plan for for them accordingly. Timeshare consumers who acquire directly from the holiday resort oftentimes do so through timeshare "presentations."

Evade High Pressure Sales:

These types of presentations seduce guests with a "prize" for attending (dinner vouchers or tickets to the nearby amusement park, to illustrate) that are indeed really cheerily-disguised bribes to seduce you into a high pressure predicament unprepared. It's these kinds of notorious timeshare salesmen who rope potential customers in; convincing these individuals not to go home and explore, that this is a "one time plan," and that that you are missing an immense venture in case don't signup now. It's quite frankly a fallacy. Buying any kind of real estate ought not to be a snap-decision, and it should certainly not happen during a high-pressure instance.

Choose a Licensed Timeshare brokerage firm:

A number of industry experts acknowledge that the safest and smartest strategy to acquire a vacation property on the secondary market will be to talk with a licensed timeshare brokerage. Opt for a broker with present real estate licensing and BBB accreditation. They are both signifiers of outstanding performance and reputability.

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Don't Fall for Timeshare Schemes!

In today's world, there seems to be more timeshare scams than timeshare values. Unfortunately, with so many timeshare scams out there, they are all competing against each other. In the real world, products improve with competition. As a product becomes more popular, the competitors attempt to make theirs better so they can take a piece of the market share. Unfortunately, in the underworld of scams and frauds - timeshare scams are competing to be the most innovative and "best on the market." Whether the scams take place over the phone, through the mail, or in person, all timeshare owners are susceptible to becoming a victim. The best thing to do is become vigilant in your research of any business or personal opportunity involving the timeshare industry. These scams typically use the same high pressure tactics that it took to get you into the original timeshare purchase. These scam artists know that many timeshare owners are simple susceptible to high pressure coercion to separate you from your money. These scams rely on the fact that you are now more desperate than ever and looking for help.

News companies, Better Business Bureau, and various state and federal agencies have come out with advisories to help the consumer spot these scams. Many times their greatest recommendation is to just do thorough research, which is not only a easy thing to accomplish - but a necessity in today's day and age. These timeshare scams hire the absolute best wordsmiths, con artists, and sharks to separate you from your money. Although it may see like a company sounds reputable, many timeshare companies are a timeshare scam in sheep's clothing. These smooth criminals are really good at creating your problem, solving it, and then leaving you to realize you never had a problem. As such, you have just become a victim of the many timeshare scams floating around the world.

Some of the most common scams involve the promise of the anonymous buyer. These scam artists call you up and let you know that they have a buyer in holding that wants to purchase your timeshare, all you have to do is pay an advance on the closing costs - and then the scam artists phone room disappears. This scam leaves you thousands of dollars poorer and with a worthless timeshare.

Another very big scam is the "we can rent your timeshare" scam. These con artists call people up and show that they have a proven history of renting timeshares to people for large amounts of money. This, again, is just one of the many timeshare scams that you will be approached with. When there is someone who actually wants to rent a timeshare, one finds that it can easily be done online for many times less than a hundred dollars a night. So there really is no need to fall victim to one of those scams if you just know the truth, there really is no way out of your timeshare easily. At least never one that presents a profit to the owner.

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Remember to Think About Taxes Before You Sell or Rent Your Timeshare!

I am commonly asked how selling a timeshare or renting a vacation condo impacts consumers in regards to both state and federal income taxes. The first advice I always provide is simple but vital. Discuss your plans with your CPA or tax preparer to ensure you have the most accurate information and receive advice specific to your situation.

In this article, I have put together some general information you should consider when you speak to your legal counsel or accountant. The following information should not be considered as legal advice, but rather as general topics to discuss when selling or renting a timeshare resort.

Most timeshares that are sold on the secondary market at sold at a loss! It is extremely rare for a timeshare owner to sell for a higher price than what they originally paid, even if their timeshare ownership was purchased as a resale on the secondary market. The first rule of timeshare ownership is that timeshares decline in monetary value over time. Every timeshare owner should expect their vacation ownership to be worth less in the future than it is now. Try to think about your timeshare as you would other comparable luxury items such as a car or a boat. The major difference between them being that "antique" timeshares do not appreciate over the years! Often, the only true value of a timeshare lies in the usage and enjoyment the owner receives, and in the photo albums created from years of fantastic vacations!

The financial loss from the sale of your timeshare is usually not deductible. Tax laws in the United States consider a timeshare to be a specialized form of real estate that is classified in most cases as your personal asset. Your tax preparer should think of your vacation ownership in much the same way as your automobile. When you sell a vehicle that you have owned for personal use and enjoyment, you cannot claim a financial loss on your income taxes. However, if that same vehicle is owned and used entirely for business purposes- then there can be tax benefits.

If you originally purchased your timeshare for business purposes or as a rental property investment and can you prove that you have consistently used it for that purpose, you may be able to claim a financial loss when you file your income tax. If audited, you will need to be able to provide proof to support your deduction such as advertising receipts and executed rental contracts.

If you originally purchased the timeshare for personal usage and decide later to use it for business purposes, you may want to consider transferring ownership to your business or create a LLC or other legal entity to hold title. This way you will start with a clean slate. Again- consult with your attorney or CPA to ensure you have the most accurate information. Your legal counsel may advise you to obtain an appraisal or comparative market analysis at the time of transfer to determine what the fair market value is for the timeshare.

Once your ownership can be classified as solely for business purposes, you will need to calculate the expenses of your purchase and ownership at the time of a future sale. Combine your purchase price, any escrow or title fees you paid at closing, any brokerage commissions or fees you paid, and any portion of the annual fees you have paid that were earmarked for replacements or for capital reserves. The portion of maintenance fees paid toward operating expenses should not be used unless your counsel advises you differently. Your maintenance fee bill should provide you with a breakdown of the annual assessment. If it does not, contact your home owners association or resort manager to ask for a copy of the budgets for the timeshare resort. Your selling expenses should include any advertising fees, brokerage commissions, and any closing costs you paid during the sale of your timeshare.

When calculating your expenses to be used as a deduction from rental proceeds, you may be able to use the full amount of annual maintenance fees and taxes you paid in that specific usage year. You will also want to include your advertising receipts and any brokerage fees you paid.

In closing, remember that your timeshare ownership may be subject to both state and federal tax requirements. State laws may apply in your own state of residence as well as the state where the timeshare resort is physically located.

You want to research any closing agent or title company involved with the sale and transfer. Find a respected timeshare closing agent who is experienced with your particular resort and who understands any state and federal reporting requirements involved with the transfer of ownership. Your closing agent should be able to tell you if there are any withholding requirements such as the federal withholding (FIRPTA) or a state withholding such as (HARPTA).

While there are many aspects to consider when selling or renting your timeshare property, the most important thing you can do is simply to take your time and ensure you have performed your required due diligence by consulting with your attorney or certified public accountant. Proper advice can save you both time and money!

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New Technology; Tracking Our Recycled Waste With Sensors

I propose using sensors which can be strategically placed into recycled bottles, which will help us audit our recycling efforts. Too much of the present recycled trash never gets recycled. Tracking Our Recycled Waste With Sensors can easily be done to make sure recycle contractors are doing their jobs. All too often I have visited a recycling facility only to find that some types of bottles and cans were not being recycled at all, this happened for many reasons, some were due to lack of labor, build up of material faster than it could be separated out. Someday robotic trash separators will be able to identify quickly each type of material based on a sonar of the trash, knowing the thickness of Polypropylene, Polyethylene, opaque and colored plastics. Glass, paper, waxed paper products or rubber.

Now we should secretly put sensors in the recycled receptacle containers and make sure they actually get to the place they are being recycled, the end point. We need to audit ourselves. Putting different types of trash into different colored receptacles at the curbside is a really nice feel good thing for people. But all the feeling good about what you are doing is for not, if that material never gets to the place in which it will be melted down and remolded into it's next life. We can use "Plastic RFID" tags. which have been designed by the Germans. We can attach a small ion lithium battery to it and track it.

[http://www.computerworld.com/hardwaretopic...1],98932,00.html

Even if the sensor tad is seen, that is okay because it means someone was looking for it and thus knew that any one of a million containers might be one of the Audit sensors to make sure we really are Walking the Talk of our recycling goals.

New Technology; Tracking Our Recycled Waste With Sensors