Tuesday, January 28, 2020

Project Plan Of Newhall Place Construction Essay

Project Plan Of Newhall Place Construction Essay A brief physical description of the building (including architectural style and the materials used), its history and why it has been granted a listed status. Newhall Place is located at Newhall Hill Birmingham West Midlands B1 3JH. It was built about 1860 and designed by H.R. Yeoville Thomason, who was also responsible for many of Birminghams finest buildings. He designed the Council House and much of Colmore Row. The building was first occupied by a firm of merchants, Shaw Hawkes Co, but by 1871 No. 16 had become the premises of Phipps Pickering and Richard, Brewers. By the 1880s it had become part of the Newhall Wire Works in nearby George Street and is now a Grade II Listed building. This imaginative courtyard development still retains much of this character from 19th Century with exposed beams, arched sash windows and an atrium style courtyard. The durability of an arched window depends on the type of window used and the location, especially how much wear and tear it will receive in that area of the home. There is also the fact that arched windows require special skill in the installation. The contractor will need to frame-in the opening to accommodate the arched design, being sure to install the proper support. He/she should also carefully caulk and seal the arch to create a strong moisture and air barrier. Without a strong seal, your window will require costly repair down the road. (http://www.calfinder.com/library/window/types/Arches-Bring-Style-to-Your-Windows) Every windows and doors have an arch or round on top of them, it seems like a gothic style as specially arranged with brickwork at the outer faà §ade facing the street side. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ Consideration of the impact of the fixed internal layout of the building on a conversion project, in comparison with modern construction techniques. First of all, most of the historical building preserved has its own characteristics in both architectural or structurally design for purpose and its original use. Although most people may consider to demolish the entire building or alter part of it when come to a project involving change of use or other intend, the existing internal layout usually not capable to accommodate the new design from the architect in terms of modern construction method or techniques in related to the purpose of use. The fundamental problems encompassing the allocation of structure/partition wall, column, beam, staircase, basement, sky light, ceiling/false ceiling, drainage pipe and ducting. In order to retain the front faà §ade which is the major issue to maintain the outlook and architectural feature of historical building, most of the structural elements are not recommended to alter. It is not only not changing the appearance outside but the internal fixed elements would not be suggested to modify since in structural aspect the main structure especially when constructed in brickwork most of the wall, column and beam form the main structural framework. It is easy to notice that those elements are connected to each other in specific joints structure. In most case, it will be more wisely not to touch that part but considering how to reinforce and provide adequate lateral and vertical support to the faà §ade and also the internal structure prior to and during the construction stage. Nowadays, most of the AA works would employ a structural engineer to investigate the existing structure and provide adequate checking in order to determine whether the structures serviceabil ity is strong enough to cater the loading during construction or for future use. One of the key factors of the modern construction in terms of structural stability is spreading the loads by transferring to reinforced concrete column and beam which the load path is much more simple and consistent. With less r.c. structure wall partitions, the space within the entire layout will be enhanced remarkably as well as the flexibility for architect design. Another modern method is to construct a high grade r.c. core wall in the middle of the building like IFC 2 in Hong Kong, the main structure can provide sufficient strength so allow the structural steel elements to attach to and thus the reduction of r.c. beam and column will release more space and headroom. Such structural design can give more flexibility in internal partitioning, where those partitions wouldnt form part of the structure hence future alternation and change of use can be facilitate. To conclude the above, there are much mor e limitations for old design building in compare with modern building in terms of fixed internal layout. Many examples in Hongkong such as 181 shopping mall (former police headquarter in TST) and Murray House in Stanley selected not to ruin the fixed layout but renovate in aesthetic without touching the main structure. c) Consideration of underpinning; waterproofing of basements; upgrading and retrofitting of building services; remedying dampness; repair of masonry; treatment of timber defects. Underpinning First of all, it is recommended to employ a structural engineer to have an investigation over the existing foundations including the main structure, soil bearing capacity, water table etc. First of all, a thorough inspection over the existing superstructure and the basement to reveal if there is any major and apparent crack over the main structure where the temporary supporting system can be determined and also the subsequent main structure reinforcement scheme can be assessed. Secondly, to check over the buried foundation under the basement, adopt trial hole excavation with adequate lateral support at the backyard will be suggested. The fact of the condition of soil and also the existing foundation and the water table could be revealed. Meanwhile the bearing capacity would be obtained by checking with the adoption of method of plate-load test or the like. In our experience, raft foundation should be the most possible existing structure constructed in brickwork for such old building over 150 years. To avoid the disturbance of the existing foundation, it is recommended to have a partial excavation with relative small area in alternative pattern so not to remove too much support from the existing foundation subject to further analysis structural calculation after obtaining relevant data from the inspections. Owing the building is only 2 stories high, thus mass concrete fill could be adopted since shadow partial excavation can be achieved without too many lateral support over the limited space due to the allocation of the building with one side facing the street and two sides abutted to adjacent buildings. Waterproofing of Basement A black, liquid applied single-component moisture-cured bitumen modified polyurethane waterproofing system, which provides superior protection against the penetration of water. Bitumen modified polyurethane elastomer a two-component system is available, which does not depend on atmosphere moisture. Basic uses once cured, the liquid membrane allows expansion and contraction over a broad temperature range and maintains flexibility and waterproofing properties under continuous exposure to water above or below grade. It has a thixotorpic consistency and may be used on vertical as well as horizontal surfaces. The wide range of purposes including application over concrete, stone, brick, cement blocks, wood, metal, asbestos and most other surfaces. After the preparation of the wall surfaces and application of waterproofing membrane, render the wall and screed the floor with one layer of cement sand protective layer. Sump pit system can be adopted in designated location to prevent the failure of the membrane ruin the entire waterproofing system when leakage happen in the future. One layer of extruded polystyrene foam board then be fixed on top of the screed/render to provide a media to reduce the risk of condensation and also enhance the insulation of the entire basement tackle the temperature change. Finally, cover up with a layer of brick (to wall) and the floor with another layer of screed equipped with steel mesh in 2 layers (both top bottom) to form a rigid protective system against external damage to the insulation/waterproofing membrane. Although the space inside will be reduced, still this could be the best waterproofing system to deal with upgrading and retrofitting of building services Electrical Since the entire building used brickwork for construction and structure. To avoid damage or further deteriorate the brickwork, electrical conduit shall be fixed on the existing brickwall without forming a trench for conceal. It may be looking shinning of the GMS conduit finishes but paint should be considered to apply to match with the tone of the wall design. MVAC It is recommended to provide suitable MVAC system to both the upper lower basement due to the confined area below ground level. Installation of ducting within the premises would not be a problem by fixing expansion bolt to the soffit of ceiling. On the other hand, the EAD shall be designed to run along the exterior wall at the backyard to higher level. In order to ensure the architect design and the aim of aesthetic, simply install false ceiling system would make the interior more neat and unify where the exterior pipe/duct can be cladded with aluminum cladding or GRC panel to match with the existing finishes. The Variable refrigerant volume (VRV) system will be selected for air conditioning system based on easy to install, small installation space and easy to repair, the installation methods like the Split-Type Air Conditioning. The Mechanical Ventilation system will install individual the intake and exhaust fan in class room and corridors Fig. xxxx Fire Services To comply with the latest government ordinance and statutory regulation, it is advised that to appoint several design in terms of the followings in FS aspect. To improve the extinguishment and containment system, the ceiling will require install sprinkler system (Fig. xxxxx). Fire rated doors will install between the escape route and corridor area in each floor for isolate the fire occurred. Portable firefighting equipment, included fire extinguishers, fire blankets and sand buckets. Fixed firefighting equipment, included Hose reels, Sprinkler system ,Fig. xxxx, and Firefighting lift Fig: Sprinkler System Plumbing Drainage The major problem will be related to the underground drainage system, what can be seen above ground level should be relatively easier either retain or divert subject to the new architect layout. The u/g drainage shall be redesign subject to the availability of existing sub-structure. It may not be difficult to relocate the existing manhole but it needs to be using the previous opening inside the u/g structure to avoid disturbance of the stability or otherwise too many alternation will affect the overall rigidity of entire structure, subsequently cost/time implication to the project may be enhanced. Part Two. Q1 Your Client has retained your company as Project Managers (offering a full range of services ranging from Professional Design services together with Health and Safety). As a Principal Contractor / CDM Coordinator prepare a detailed Health and Safety Risk Assessment to accompany the tender documentation for the demolition and / or refurbishment of the existing buildings Noise Noise may be defined as sound undesired by the recipient. Besides being a nuisance, noise may interfere with working efficiency, cause accident and most important for resulting in hearing loss to employee. In deciding what the noise control measures to provide, the essential thing is to make a noise assessment to determine what exactly the ideal figure of sound reduction. The sequence will be as below:- Assessing neighborhood noise. Assessing noise (Including noisy plants equipment) generated on site. Deciding the most affected noise sensitive receiver. Comparing the quantitative data calculated from 3 steps before. Making reference to the current statutory regulations. Setting the specific limit. Deciding the noise source. Setting the individual control measure by the means of the following: Substitution (replace equipment with silenced type). Enclosure (enclose equipment by outer wall with inner lining of an acoustically absorbent). Silencers (add). Screens (provide with acoustic screens). Assessing noise level generated on site. Reviewing monitoring the status. Action level can be determined for actions. A report in the prescribed form shall be submitted to the relevant department as soon as possible. For exceeding First Action Level, a warning notice shall be displayed for specification of distance for noisy machines or tools. Between First and Second Action Levels a daily personal noise exposure between 85 and 89.9 dB(A), when employees are exposed, the site are required to provide suitable approved ear protectors to employees who request for them. Between Second and Peak Action Levels a daily personal noise exposure of 90 dB(A); a peak sound pressure level of 140 dB or 200 Pa, the site are required to provide suitable approved ear protectors to employees and enforce them to use properly. Having finished each assessment, a list will be generated to inform all subcontractors how far are the hearing protection zone are. The General Foreman / Foreman should post noise labels and follow the rules in the different action levels. Dust Dusts usually fall into three groups when considered as hazards. They are toxic, nuisance and fibrosis producing. Adequate ventilation, efficient dust suppression, good housekeeping and proper personal protection are required to control dust explosions. Basically, substituting a less dangerous material for those from which dust arises is a method to control. To arrest the dust and collect it as near as possible to the point of origin, local exhaust ventilation is needed to install. To be effective, a mask must be fitted carefully and must be kept clean and the filter must be replaced when necessary. To enclose a work process that produces dust is also a method we can take. In spite of all precautions, some dust will always escape from the plant. It must be prevented from accumulating in workrooms by the regular and frequent cleaning of all parts of rooms and plant. First-aid Facilities Adequate number of first-aider and facilities in accordance with the law should be provided on site. It may have saved the casualtys life through the application of appropriate first aid measures. However, his life can be lost through rough handling or careless transportation procedures. Before you attempt to move the casualty. Housekeeping The laws including F IU Ordinance Regulations, Air Pollution Control Ordinance (Cap. 311), Occupational Safety and Health Ordinance, Construction Sites (Safety) Regulations, Air Pollution Control (Open Burning) Regulations and Air Pollution (Construction Dust) Regulations demand us to have a good housekeeping. The common hazards on site are openings, projecting nails or metal fragments at dumping area etc. Removing debris frequently is better than dealing with them after being stacked to a large amount and has advantages both in save time and money. Rag, oil, grease should be regarded as chemical waste. Waste paper or cans should be kept in rubbish bin, which is removed immediately if full. Waste reinforcement or other valuable materials should be saved in a particular place. All tools or equipment should be kept in storeroom after used. A safe means of access shall be maintained up to the required standards. Removing projecting nails as quickly as possible. Demolition Effective planning and monitoring are required to ensure that the demolition process or the partially demolished elements left at the end of each day of work does not pose any danger to the works, the general public and the adjacent properties. The General Foreman / Foreman shall provide all necessary precautionary measures to protect the works, the building, the occupants, the public and other prior to commencement of the demolition works. The General Foreman / Foreman shall ensure the means of escape provisions as well as fire compartment of the premises are maintained throughout the Contract period both for the renovation area and the adjacent tenancies.. Stability Report Including Calculations A report on the stability of the building to be demolished is required during all stages of demolition if necessary. Temporary Supports When temporary supports to structure is required, check the entire scaffolding assembly and utilities before demolition. Housekeeping Material shall be properly stored. Access ways and work areas shall be free of obstructions. Waste shall be properly disposed of at least daily. Do not overload any members. Dangerous Zone Cordon off any identified dangerous zones. The site shall be locked up all the time. In order to avoid trespasser, the General Foreman / Foreman shall inspect the premise each shift prior to work. Utilities Permit-to-work system is activating. Electrical Safety All electrically powered equipment or hand tools, except double insulated hand tools, shall be grounded. Portable hand tools and electrically powered equipment shall be used with a circuit breaker. Electrical equipment shall be disconnected or the current otherwise interrupted while it is being adjusted or repaired. Outlets, switching, junction boxes, etc. shall be covered. Exposed noncurrent-carry metal parts of fixed equipment that may become energized under abnormal conditions shall be grounded when in wet or damp locations. After demolition Clear away all debris. Secure boundary unless reinstatement has been made. Provide a Method Statement for the key stages of the entire project and a Construction Program identifying the key stages (i.e. this is not a definitive list) demolition, faà §ade retention, temporary works, high water table etc. Foundation Underpinning 1) Excavation shall be proceeded with respected to the structural engineer for adequate depth and the sequence prescribed. 2) Lateral support shall be followed according the same manner to the desire depth. 3) Concreting to the module of foundation as designed in alternative. 4) Backfilling at not more than the specified depth of each layer, shoring shall be dismantled successively. Ground water control In some cases, the ground water conditions found during site investigation may change before or during site investigation. Such changes may be due to the construction of basements nearby, natural flooding or artificial causes, such as a burst water main. The methods of ground water control may be divided into three broad groups: pumping, cut-off walling, and special methods. The choice of method depends mainly on site conditions and on the soil characteristics. These include:- size and location; thickness and type of soil strata; magnitude of water pressures in various strata; proposed permanent structure relative to soil strata; length of time for which the excavation must be open; prevention of damage to adjacent structures; relationship between the proposed dewatering method and the construction sequence. Dewatering Pumping from sumps Widely used in deep excavations for trench or basement. There are several major problems:- Soil movement due to settlement Ground affected by water flow towards sump Instability at formation level in timbered excavations owing to upward movement of water The general solution is to dig sump at corner of excavation below formation level. Open Sump The sump is usually formed away from the construction area in a corner of the excavation. The water is led into the sump, either by sloping the ground towards it or by using shallow garland drains which feed into the sump. Pumping from open sumps is limited to a maximum depth of about 8m. Jetted Sump In this method, a hole is formed in the ground by jetting metal tube. A disposable intake strainer connected to a disposable flexible suction pipe is then lowered into the hole, and the void filled with sand filter media. This suction pipe is connected to a pump which pumps out the ground water. Demolition 1) Temporary support such as racking shore shall be installed at each floor prior to any demolition work commence. Demolition Work 1) Statutory and contractual Requirements shall be followed and implement on site at all time. 2) All demolition works shall be carried out in accordance with the Building (Demolition Works) Regulations, the Draft Code of Practice for Demolition of Buildings as well as Building Department Practice Notes. 3) Before any demolition work is commenced, a sufficient survey for proper identified of any structural problems and risk associated with flammable and hazardous substance, utilities etc. 4) Location of Utilities 4.1) The whole area, which is affected by any possible demolition works, shall be identified. 4. 2) Plans or other suitable information about all utilities especially concealed pipes in the vicinity of the proposed works before any demolition work starts shall be obtained. 4.3 ) Shut off, cap, or otherwise control all electric, gas, water, sewer and other service lines before demolition work is started. Permit-to-work system shall be activated. 4.4) If it is necessary to maintain any power, water, or other utilities during demolition, such lines should be temporarily relocated as necessary and/ or protected. 4.5) plan on the proposed methods for handling and disposal of debris including the permissible temporary accumulation of building debris and the transportation route shall then be evolved. 4.6) Stability Report with supporting calculations shall be generated. Faà §ade Retention 1) To design by the structural engineer with the project manager to investigate the most economical and efficient method prior to determine the sequence of work. 2) Provide suitable foundation at ground level and erect the steel prop above the temporary footing. 3) Continued with the diagonal bracing and transom to form a stable framework floor by floor from bottom and up sequence, make sure the bolting is securely fixed. 4) Floor slab shall be hacked off to let the framework going up and through the slab. 5) The configuration of framework will be similar to fly racking shore. Your Client is also concerned that they discharge their statutory obligations under the CDM Regulations, in addition to the Health and Safety Risk Assessment. Explain the workings of the CDM regulations and how these affect them as developers throughout the entire contract (i.e. demolition, new build and refurbishment). The clients duty in relation to the health and safety file (1) The client shall ensure that the CDM co-ordinator is provided with all the health and safety information in the clients possession (or which is reasonably obtainable) relating to the project which is likely to be needed for inclusion in the health and safety file, including information specified in regulation 4(9)(c) of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006(a). (2) Where a single health and safety file relates to more than one project, site or structure, or where it includes other related information, the client shall ensure that the information relating to each site or structure can be easily identified. (3) The client shall take reasonable steps to ensure that after the construction phase the information in the health and safety file (a) is kept available for inspection by any person who may need it to comply with the relevant statutory provisions; and (b) is revised as often as may be appropriate to incorporate any relevant new information. (4) It shall be sufficient compliance with paragraph (3)(a) by a client who disposes of his entire interest in the structure if he delivers the health and safety file to the person who acquires his interest in it and ensures that he is aware of the nature and purpose of the file. In anticipation that a project comprising of demolition, alteration and refurbishment, will proceed based on your recommendation, advise on the scope and nature of the project team. This should include the timing and sequence of appointments. Designer/Architect Consultants To provide design of the architectural layout, featuring, what to be retained or demolished To provide detail information about the aesthetical features, design of lighting, furring and finishing to internal/external area. Professional Structural Engineer To provide structural calculation and analysis for the followings: Soil bearing capacity and foundation upgrading design Inspection to the substructure elements with remedial proposal Inspection to the superstructure elements with remedial proposal Temporary lateral support for foundation work Vertical/lateral support for the retention of faà §ade unit and/or structural elements 4. The Building Team Building is a group activity and its success depends on a good understanding and operation between a large number of people. The participants involved can be conveniently arranged into groups or teams according to their particular interest and /or involvement as follows:- 4.1 Client Team The client or the building owner has the responsibility for defining the building to suit needs, establishing and providing the necessary finances, agreeing design and construction phases, timetabling, and, of course, fulfilling the management and running of the completed project. A potential client must establish whether to build or not to build. Having decided that a new building is necessary to provide additional or alternative space, it is important that consideration is then given to when the space will be needed. Various problems are needed to be solved, such as: land acquisition, establishment of rights, development permits, planning permission, building approval, contractor selection and subsequent erection. Most building is undertaken from money made available in the form of a loan therefore, interest rates are important. In this respect, the government has direct influence and can use the building industry as a regulator for the economy of the country. Once the money becomes available for a building, the client will require speedy action for its design, construction and subsequent use so that the lost interest, which would have been gained through alternative financial investments, may be speedily recouped. The total cost of a building must include the professional fees of the Design Team which the client appoints. 4.2 User Team User Team forms a vital link between design concepts and built reality. An example of User Team is the advisory organization formed by the tenants of public housing. 4.3 Design Team There are a great many people in a Design Team who concerned with supplying the design expertise which will make a building possible. Principal Designers generally include architects, interior designers, and building surveyors. They are responsible for the overall design of the project. Architects design and prepare the production information for most building projects. They will also inspect the construction work on site. Interior Designers can also prepare design and production information for a building, and provide supervision of work, but, they may be specifically concerned with the interior of a building and need additional advisers in order to deal with all the design and construction processes involved in total building. Building Surveyors are sometimes responsible for the design and supervision of certain building work although they are more usually carry out surveys of structural soundness, condition of dilapidation or repair, alterations/extensions to existing buildings and market value of existing buildings. Specialist Designers include civil and structural engineers, services engineers, and those concerned with specific aspects of architecture, including landscape, interiors, office planning, etc. They provide expertise concerning certain aspects of a building and whose requirements are often coordinated by the Principal Designer. For example: HVAC Communications Drainage and plumbing Electrical Fire services Security systems Civil and Structural Engineers are employed to assist Principal Designers on building projects which contain appreciable quantities of structural work, such as reinforced concrete, complex steel or timber work, or foundations which are either complex or abnormal. Services Engineers work with other designers and are concerned with environmental control lighting, heating, air conditioning, and sound modulation; electrical installations, plumbing and waste-disposal systems; and mechanical services, such as lift installations and electrical conductors. Quantity Surveyors provide the cost control and financial advice to client, principal designers and specialist designers. They are responsible for preparing Bills of Quantities. Also, during the actual construction period for a project, he must measure and value the work carried out at regular (monthly) intervals and submit details to the overall financial administrator (usually the principal designer) for payments from client to contractor. They also advises on the use of sums of money listed in the Bill of Quantities for contingency or provisional items, the cost of making variations in areas originally described in the Bills or indicated on the drawings, and settlement of the final account for the finished project. Depending on the precise nature of a project, the combined cost of these professional fees will vary from between 12% and 20% of the final construction costs. 4.3 Research Team Researchers are those making understanding and development of current construction methods (materials and technical ability). The aim of the research is to discover facts by means of scientific study and, in matters concerning building, covers a very wide area of knowledge requiring controlled programming of critical investigation of chosen subjects. 4.4 Legislative Team They negotiate with the relevant authorities to clarify certain legal requirements. Building Ordinance Office, Planning Department, Fire Services Department, Highways Department, Urban Council, etc. On site management level, a builder has to ensure that the building site maintains safe and healthy conditions for employees, and that the general public should be adequately pro

Monday, January 20, 2020

Third world debt Vs Need for Technology :: Business and Management Studies

Third world debt Vs Need for Technology Background and underlying concepts: Many developing countries have very large debts accumulated since the 80’s, and the amount of money that they owe is quickly increasing dramatically. Trying to pay off these debts has become a serious problem for these countries, as they now owe money to commercial banks and also to organisations like the World Bank, and the International Monetary Fund, and to First World governments. During the last fifteen years around $1.3 trillion was paid by the third world countries to the developed countries in the form of loan repayments and interest on the loans. Every month around $12 billion is passed on from economically poor counties to the developed countries in debt servicing. In sub-Saharan Africa, some countries spend almost half their national budget on financing debt owed to the rich western nations. This is the reason why these counties cannot invest in technology to develop their own country. The technology market is vast industry that is always changing with time. It is estimated that around 5.5 billion people do not have access to technology such as the Internet, as computer are to expensive for these people. While over half of the UK households are online, only 0.1% of homes in Bangladesh and India have access to the Internet. As this was a huge concern a company based in India produce a low cost handheld computer named ‘Simputer’. The device would only cost around $240. The device would enable people or a village to access the Internet and perform transaction and any other information that would be accessible via the Internet. Villages tended to by these as it help educate the kids within these villages. Current Situation: Figures published by the World Bank shows that the total external debt per country is as follows. * Indonesia $132.2bn * India $104.4bn * Thailand $59.2bn * Malaysia $48.6bn * Sri Lanka $9.6bn * Somalia $2.7bn * Seychelles $560m * Maldives $270m The annual repayment cost for theses countries are as follows: * Indonesia $13.7bn * India $13bn * Thailand $17.9bn * Sri Lanka $653m * Maldives $20.8m In Africa the debt crises is so bad that around 315 million Africans live on less than $1 a day. The G7 minister are planning to cancel up to 100% of the debt owed, this would mean that around 37 developing counties would benefit from this proposed scheme. According to the JDC (Jubilee Debt Campaign), only $36.3bn, or less than 10%, of debt has been cancelled to date. Pakistan has paid off most of its debt that was owed to US. This was done the incentives given by the American government and its allies in

Sunday, January 12, 2020

Deception Point Page 38

Tench stood suddenly, her lanky frame dominating the cramped space. With the cigarette dangling from her lips, she walked over to a wall safe, removed a thick manila envelope, returned to the desk, and sat back down. Gabrielle eyed the burgeoning envelope. Tench smiled, cradling the envelope in her lap like a poker player holding a royal flush. Her yellowed fingertips flicked at the corner, making an annoying repetitive scratch, as if savoring the anticipation. Gabrielle knew it was just her own guilty conscience, but her first fears were that the envelope contained some kind of proof of her sexual indiscretion with the senator. Ridiculous, she thought. The encounter had occurred after hours in Sexton's locked senatorial office. Not to mention, if the White House actually had any evidence, they would have gone public with it already. They may be suspicious, Gabrielle thought, but they don't have proof. Tench crushed out her cigarette. â€Å"Ms. Ashe, whether or not you are aware, you are caught in the middle of a battle that has been raging behind the scenes in Washington since 1996.† This opening gambit was not at all what Gabrielle expected. â€Å"I beg your pardon?† Tench lit another cigarette. Her spindly lips curled around it, and the tip glowed red. â€Å"What do you know about a bill called the Space Commercialization Promotions Act?† Gabrielle had never heard of it. She shrugged, lost. â€Å"Really?† Tench said. â€Å"That surprises me. Considering your candidate's platform. The Space Commercialization Promotions Act was proposed back in 1996 by Senator Walker. The bill, in essence, cites the failure of NASA to do anything worthwhile since putting a man on the moon. It calls for the privatization of NASA by immediately selling off NASA assets to private aerospace companies and allowing the free-market system to explore space more efficiently, thus relieving the burden NASA now places on taxpayers.† Gabrielle had heard NASA critics suggest privatization as a solution to NASA's woes, but she was not aware the idea had actually taken the form of an official bill. â€Å"This commercialization bill,† Tench said, â€Å"has been presented to Congress four times now. It is similar to bills that have successfully privatized government industries like uranium production. Congress has passed the space commercialization bill all four times it has seen it. Thankfully, the White House vetoed it on all occasions. Zachary Herney has had to veto it twice.† â€Å"Your point?† â€Å"My point is that this bill is one Senator Sexton will certainly support if he becomes President. I have reason to believe Sexton will have no qualms about selling off NASA assets to commercial bidders the first chance he gets. In short, your candidate would support privatization over having American tax dollars fund space exploration.† â€Å"To my knowledge, the senator has never commented publicly about his stance on any Space Commercialization Promotions Act.† â€Å"True. And yet knowing his politics, I assume you would not be surprised if he supported it.† â€Å"Free-market systems tend to breed efficiency.† â€Å"I'll take that as a ‘yes.'† Tench stared. â€Å"Sadly, privatizing NASA is an abominable idea, and there are countless reasons why every White House administration since the bill's inception has shot it down.† â€Å"I've heard the arguments against privatizing space,† Gabrielle said, â€Å"and I understand your concerns.† â€Å"Do you?† Tench leaned toward her. â€Å"Which arguments have you heard?† Gabrielle shifted uneasily. â€Å"Well, the standard academic fears mostly-the most common being that if we privatize NASA, our current pursuit of scientific space knowledge would be quickly abandoned in favor of profitable ventures.† â€Å"True. Space science would die in a heartbeat. Instead of spending money to study our universe, private space companies would strip-mine asteroids, build tourist hotels in space, offer commercial satellite launch services. Why would private companies bother studying the origins of our universe when it would cost them billions and show no financial return?† â€Å"They wouldn't,† Gabrielle countered. â€Å"But certainly a National Endowment for Space Science could be founded to fund academic missions.† â€Å"We already have that system in place. It's called NASA.† Gabrielle fell silent. â€Å"The abandonment of science in favor of profits is a side issue,† Tench said. â€Å"Hardly relevant compared to the utter chaos that would result by permitting the private sector to run free in space. We would have the wild west all over again. We would see pioneers staking claims on the moon and on asteroids and protecting those claims with force. I've heard petitions from companies who want to build neon billboards that blink advertisements in the nighttime sky. I've seen petitions from space hotels and tourist attractions whose proposed operations include ejecting their trash into the void of space and creating orbiting trash heaps. In fact, I just read a proposal yesterday from a company that wants to turn space into a mausoleum by launching the deceased into orbit. Can you imagine our telecommunications satellites colliding with dead bodies? Last week, I had a billionaire CEO in my office who was petitioning to launch a mission to a near-field asteroid, drag it clos er to earth, and mine it for precious minerals. I actually had to remind this guy that dragging asteroids into near earth orbit posed potential risks of global catastrophe! Ms. Ashe, I can assure you, if this bill passes, the throngs of entrepreneurs rushing into space will not be rocket scientists. They will be entrepreneurs with deep pockets and shallow minds.† â€Å"Persuasive arguments,† Gabrielle said, â€Å"and I'm sure the senator would weigh those issues carefully if he ever found himself in a position to vote on the bill. Might I ask what any of this has to do with me?† Tench's gaze narrowed over her cigarette. â€Å"A lot of people stand to make a lot of money in space, and the political lobby is mounting to remove all restrictions and open the floodgates. The veto power of the office of the President is the only remaining barrier against privatization†¦ against complete anarchy in space.† â€Å"Then I commend Zach Herney for vetoing the bill.† â€Å"My fear is that your candidate would not be so prudent if elected.† â€Å"Again, I assume the senator would carefully weigh all the issues if he were ever in a position to pass judgment on the bill.† Tench did not look entirely convinced. â€Å"Do you know how much Senator Sexton spends on media advertising?† The question came out of left field. â€Å"Those figures are public domain.† â€Å"More than three million a month.† Gabrielle shrugged. â€Å"If you say so.† The figure was close. â€Å"That's a lot of money to spend.† â€Å"He's got a lot of money to spend.† â€Å"Yes, he planned well. Or rather, married well.† Tench paused to blow smoke. â€Å"It's sad about his wife, Katherine. Her death hit him hard.† A tragic sigh followed, clearly feigned. â€Å"Her death was not all that long ago, was it?† â€Å"Come to your point, or I'm leaving.† Tench let out a lung-shaking cough and reached for the burgeoning manila folder. She pulled out a small stack of stapled papers and handed them to Gabrielle. â€Å"Sexton's financial records.† Gabrielle studied the documents in astonishment. The records went back several years. Although Gabrielle was not privy to the internal workings of Sexton's finances, she sensed this data was authentic-banking accounts, credit card accounts, loans, stock assets, real estate assets, debts, capital gains and losses. â€Å"This is private data. Where did you get this?†

Saturday, January 4, 2020

Career And Personal Experience Receiving Therapeutic...

Professional experience in my career and personal experience receiving therapeutic counseling has given me a broad-based set of beliefs about what motivates individuals. I have determined that each individual comes with a unique context and narrative and that my role is to facilitate a client’s self-determination and decision-making by developing a positive relationship that allows the client freedom to take risks or make informed choices. Also, I believe that the counselor creates the trusting relationship where poor choices and failed attempts to meet goals can be explored and utilized by the client to move forward with lessons learned. It is difficult for me to choose a theory or two as I believe I have been influenced over many years by many different schools of thought. Much of my career prior to working as a case coordinator in the Wisconsin Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, was at Job Corps working with disadvantaged youth. Training for staff at Job Corps focused on motivating youth and particularly on youth at risk, so there was an element that took from counseling theory within that training. For example, one training and philosophy at Job Corps was described with the following terms: rigor + relevance + relationship = results. I still adhere to the concepts of rigor (rapid engagement), relevance (selecting appropriate action steps or methods), relationships (the relationship between professional and client must be a healthy one and other supportive,Show MoreRelatedProfessional identity and career paper1483 Words   |  6 Pagesthings such as criminal or sexual behavior. A counselor must communicate p ositive feel back while withholding judgments. When encountering people of different cultural backgrounds, Counselors must refrain from pushing their personal cultural view/values on them. The counseling process should take place in a safe and intimate environment. 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These association often require further education and/or professionalRead MorePersonal Experience Receiving Therapeutic Counseling889 Words   |  4 PagesProfessional experience in my career so far as well as personal experience receiving therapeutic counseling have given me a broad-based set of beliefs about what motivates individuals. I have determined that each individual comes with a unique context and narrative and that my role is to facilitate a client’s self-determination and decision-making by developing a positive relationship that allows the client freedom to take risks or make informed choices. Also I believe that the counselor createsRead MorePerson Centered Therapy1170 Words   |  5 Pagesinfluence on both theorists and practitioners. The following chart describes the personal and professional development of Carl Rogers. As he changed and developed, so did person-centered therapy. 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There are several requirements that you must meet in order to embrace this career and provide care to others. Professionally treating clients within your scope of practice can present its challenges as well as the ultimate goal of the helping profession to do no harm. Th ere are requirements to developing a helping professional, key legal and ethical issues in counseling, and the role of the counselor in developing and maintaining ethical boundaries in clinical relationshipsRead MoreEssay on Dual Relationships Between Counselors and Clients1578 Words   |  7 PagesDual Relationships in Counseling This paper will explore the concept of dual relationships between counselors and clients and the ethical implications of such relationships. 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The reason for this probably stems from my lack of background knowledge on the ins-and-outs of the entire judicial process. As a future counselor, the idea of possible lawsuits, being accused of professional misconduct, angry clients, receiving a subpoena, or having to testify in court, makes me feel a bit anxious. Since counselors must function within an increasingly litigious world, the weight of understanding the multitu de of ethical and legal directives does cause me to have some reservationsRead MoreCase Study : Clinical Mental Health Counseling Essay2484 Words   |  10 PagesDenielle Aldridge M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling Personal, Academic, and Professional Qualities/Personal Qualities My primary goal in applying to Walden University s M.S. program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is to prepare myself for a future career in helping a wide range of individuals in my community to find happiness and to develop healthy relationships with their family and to find camaraderie within their community. I am greatly interested in working with