tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-90643508557581013302024-03-13T07:50:16.371-07:00 Random!Being Random is....Avocadogurl about townhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12890488165546682278noreply@blogger.comBlogger9125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9064350855758101330.post-65029869538850015172016-08-07T03:36:00.002-07:002016-08-07T03:36:26.637-07:00Global Marketing: Broadening the Target Market<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Whether a company markets its services and
goods globally or domestically, the definition of marketing still applies. The
scope of market broadens when the company decides to sell across international
boundaries this being primarily because of the numerous dimensions that the
organization must account for. Global marketing is especially important for
products and services with a universal demand for example automobiles and food.
A beverage company, for example, is more likely to be in more markets compared to
a company producing wooden toys, but even the latter can find a niche market in
diverse corners of the globe. If you are looking to learn how global marketing
can help you or your company expand your target markets, this is the article
for you. The article provides an account
of how the concept of global marketing was started, providing examples of
companies that have been successful expanding their target markets. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Evolution
of global marketing <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A few decades ago, it took several months
to ship products to markets abroad and doing so was such a big undertaking that
only large trading companies were able to incur the risk. Then, developments in
transportation technology made it possible for products and people to move
faster and the first push towards globalization started. Information technology
especially the internet has shrunk the world further. A business could have
employees and partners across the world and consumers can get products from the
locations in days.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The global environment <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The most important strategy in global
marketing is assessing the environmental factors. Taking account of economic,
cultural and political difference is a must in dealing with various markets.
Looking into the environment allow you to cluster markets according to their
differences and similarities based on uncontrollable factors. For example, if
you are exporting horticultural produce and you wish to anticipate changes in
the political environment, you might need to build a relationship with
politicians who have knowledge of the political system. This is however not to
be viewed as insider information.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Global
Marketing<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Global marketing is more than just selling
a product globally. Rather, it entails the whole process of producing, planning
and promoting the companies in a global market. Some individual examples of
global marketing include<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 39.0pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -21.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Coca-Cola started selling
globally in 1919 and is present in more than 200 countries. To keep a
consistent brand, Coke tastes similar in all regions (except in the United
States where high-fructose corn is used in place of sugar) the size, shape, and
labeling of the coke bottle are changed to match the norms in every county.
While the company initially used a standardized advertising approach, it has
changed to adapt their adverts to the culture in the country. It also adjusts
the product line to match local taste including some new beverage brands. This
is a sure way of broadening their target market.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 39.0pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -21.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">2.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">McDonalds ensures that
the Big Mac tastes the same globally, but it also varies the menu items
according to local tastes. To broaden the target market, consumers in Mexico
can order green chili cheeseburgers while Korean customers get bulgogi burgers.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 39.0pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -21.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">3.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Starbucks also adjusts
their menu to fit the local tastes of their target market. As a global coffee buyer, the company has
long had the reputation for engaging local cultures by their needs.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">These are classic examples of companies
employing global marketing strategies that not only reach new markets but also
broaden their target markets. This is achieved by the trend to tailor products
and services to suit the consumers in the new markets. While specific products
that are unique to the brand are introduced to the new markets, the companies
use products the new markets are familiar with and use them to broaden the
target market.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Recognize
differences in markets<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">When marketing products globally,
companies have to recognize that a marketing mix that has proven successful in
the domestic market may not have the same success in another market. Differences
in local competition could require a different pricing strategy. Local
infrastructure could affect how products are produced and shipped. In some
instances, it could be profitable to produce things locally while in some
instances, it would be cheaper to ship them across the globe.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Culture
and global marketing<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Partnerships with local business are an
essential step in global marketing as well as expanding the target market. Partnerships with local business could also
dilute the brand. A global marketer has to consider all aspects of marketing as
well as the task of communicating cross-culturally. Marketers have to visit their target markets
and spend time there. Here, they can develop local contacts as well as acquire
a greater understanding of how business is conducted in the region. In Japan,
for instance, it is not enough for you to speak Japanese, you have to learn how
to conduct business the Japanese way.
Learn what is valued culturally in the target market and what is
offensive.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Using
Local Talent in Global Marketing<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Developing and respecting local business
talent is also essential in global marketing. If you are opening a brand in
Korea for instance, you have to make full use of talented Korean professionals
in your marketing, distribution, and advertising. Most companies lose
opportunities and have alienated allies because of the attitude that as
Americans, they know better than their foreign partners. Using local talent is essential since the
consumers relate more with them as opposed to foreigners. It is important that
local markets identify with the brand to expand the target market in new
territory.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Communication’s
role in global marketing<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Effective communication is important in
any marketing strategy especially in the global market where communication can
go awry. Developing communication skills must be a core part of your marketing
process. You have to use graphic and verbal messages and tap into the values of
the target market to create powerful messages.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Global marketing, when correctly done, can
propel a company to the next level. The
examples used in the article are a few demonstrations of how brands have been
able to establish markets abroad using simple marketing strategies specially
tailored to the people and expanding their target markets.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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gurl about townhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12890488165546682278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9064350855758101330.post-27196305137783174322016-03-28T19:16:00.001-07:002016-03-29T13:24:45.640-07:00Communication Systems and Strategies applied by successful companies: Nike Versus Adidas<div class="Standard" style="text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 200%;">Nike is an American
global corporation that is engaged in the design, creation, manufacture and
global marketing of selling footwear, apparel, equipment, accessories and
services. Nike is among the largest athletic shoes and apparel supplier. It initially started as blue ribbon sports in
1964 and changed to Nike inc. in 1971.
It sponsors high profile </span><span style="line-height: 32px;">sports persons</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 200%;"> and sports teams globally with
the highly recognized trademark of <i><b>just do it</b></i>.</span></span><span style="line-height: 200%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="Standard" style="text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 200%;">Adidas is a German global
corporation that designs and manufactures sports clothing accessories and
shoes. The company also creates other products such as bags, </span><span style="line-height: 32px;">eye wear</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 200%;">, shirts
and other sports related goods. The company is leading in Europe and was
founded in 1948.</span></span><span style="line-height: 200%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="Standard" style="line-height: 200%; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Adidas and Nike, being
the two principal foot wear companies, as compared to others, have to sustain
and maximize their market shares therefore they are both investing more in
marketing their products by employing diverse communication strategies </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="Standard" style="line-height: 200%; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Nike:
Internet exploitation as a communication strategy<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div class="Standard" style="line-height: 200%; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Nike has established a
strong presence on the internet. Nike applies a variety of network tools to
gain advantage as a leading seller in
the market,</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="Standard" style="line-height: 200%; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">To begin, the company’s
campaign on the internet and the media sometimes do not even mention the name and only using Nike’s slogan. This
attributed to prior campaigns that have had success and led to customer’s
relation of them to the company. Using these advantages, Nike has developed a
variety of ways of using social networks as a communication channel with their
customers while promoting their products.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="Standard" style="line-height: 200%; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Nike has many accounts on
twitter that focus on specific products and to develop significant demand for
them. Twitter is a clear example of Nike’s web strategy. Twitter is a better
communication tool as consumers can get updates on the latest news. Twitter
allows the company to advertise products to the public and provides information
regarding the company while building relationships with customers.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="Standard" style="line-height: 200%; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"> It helps the company to grow in popularity.
The company has also hired famous professionals who have twitter accounts too,
and this is used to gain considerable attention from the public. The athletes
post their photographs in Nike products. Doing this, they are able to develop a
marketing approach that is competitive. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="Standard" style="text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 200%;">Facebook is also another
valuable accessory to Nike’s communication strategy. The company uses its Facebook to inspire people and athletes who are its spokespersons also appear
on their </span><span style="line-height: 32px;">Facebook</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 200%;"> page and act as reminders of that call for action. While
twitter builds relationships with clients, </span><span style="line-height: 32px;">Facebook</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 200%;"> is market oriented and
provides product information and information about the company.</span></span><span style="line-height: 200%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="Standard" style="line-height: 200%; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">The company’s website is
another vital communication tool; the company has a range of web pages that
gives information and helps the customer to make purchases online with less
difficulty. In the websites, there are
videos that promote the company’s products. The videos are used to associate
the products with personal satisfaction. It thus created a competitive image as
well as achievement in an individual doing their best . The website gives
customer avenues with which to communicate with the company.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="Standard" style="line-height: 200%; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">YouTube is used to
strengthen the company’s strategy tool. YouTube has revealed to be highly
valuable as it brings reliability and accuracy. More so, it has demonstrated to
be an outstanding avenue for promoting clips and publicity for the company. Here, the company created its channel as a
creative way to stay in touch with consumers with ease, this way; it provides
special consideration for every product while focusing on particular market
targets. The company’s clips show professionals excelling after the use of their
products.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBW42_21TMK_g2kUDvExU-BDMKxfejWukzL1x9ZAcH0b98ggjOnbcpAvBKi8igFoqVZ-FKwElHRPbTaVko3Lvg1dGQhT5L-tXnQz7em6D4Q6WxqPzlTWUs0vDaXGt3-WGWvbUeV0YO14s/s1600/nike.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBW42_21TMK_g2kUDvExU-BDMKxfejWukzL1x9ZAcH0b98ggjOnbcpAvBKi8igFoqVZ-FKwElHRPbTaVko3Lvg1dGQhT5L-tXnQz7em6D4Q6WxqPzlTWUs0vDaXGt3-WGWvbUeV0YO14s/s1600/nike.png" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="Standard" style="line-height: 200%; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"> The videos bear an emotional effect and hence,
the objective is to correlate specific feelings to their products in a manner
that often ends up boosting sales. The videos express motivation and individual
success and as such they manage to push customers into purchasing its products.
The company also uses special events to its advantage using them to highlight
its advertising approach and makes very emotional videos; for instance the
Olympic 2012 campaign and the world cup 2014 campaign recently.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="Standard" style="text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 200%;">Finally, in Nike’s
communication strategy is </span><span style="line-height: 32px;">Flickr</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 200%;"> and blogging, </span><span style="line-height: 32px;">Flickr</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 200%;"> allows the company to share photographs of its products while allowing users to air their opinion of
the products. This helps the customers to communicate problems with products
and what they need to do different. The company’s blog, on the other hand, is
exclusively an information sharing avenue. It promotes the company’s latest
products and shares information with the public regardless of if they are
prospective clients or not. </span></span><span style="line-height: 200%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="Standard" style="line-height: 200%; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Nike’s success is
attributed to the company’s approach to communication and the fact that it has
established itself as one that gives inspiration to all sports enthusiasts. It
is a very social brand and has given new importance to communication through
the internet while gaining immense success that has resulted to the global
extension.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="Standard" style="line-height: 200%; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Adidas:
Campaigning as a communication strategy<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div class="Standard" style="line-height: 200%; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Adidas is focused on developing
plans of communication that are not only creative and inspiring, but also
support the global positioning, create equity of brands and enhance the
achievement of goals. The central precept of Adidas’ plan for communication is
to tap into the emotion in sport and advantages of a sport filled way of life
in all channels of communication. The company regularly brings aspects of
global marketing that can easily be leveraged to develop brand messages that are
simple while still powerful. The company endeavors to guarantee that all its
brands stay in the lead in communication plans. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="Standard" style="line-height: 200%; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: .5in;">
<b><i><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 200%;">“Adidas is focused on developing creative and inspiring plans of
communication”<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div class="Standard" style="line-height: 200%; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">The company uses digital
marketing as the foundation of its communication activities. Bearing in mind
the fact that consumers are online most of the time, the company’s strategy
allows for its transition from campaign based communication, which has been
primary in its activities, to creation of rapport with the target audience.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="Standard" style="line-height: 200%; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Adidas is mostly reliant
on campaign based communication as a communication strategy where it focuses on
developing campaigns to raise awareness on its products. One such method is
sponsorship of events. The company has
sponsored a variety of sporting events such as the soccerex football festival.
Deals such as this one are aimed at promoting its products to sports lovers .
This draws to people’s emotions while investing in youth development through
sports. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="Standard" style="line-height: 200%; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">The company also uses
professional sports men and women to conduct campaigns aimed at popularizing
their products. For instance, the
company sponsors sports team and with the success of every team and good
performance, the message of the products’ effectiveness is being put out there
and as such, prospective customers are encouraged to use the same products.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="Standard" style="line-height: 200%; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Another campaign tool is
outdoor advertisements. This includes creative billboard concepts that draw
customer’s attention while effectively communicating their product. Customers
are therefore able to see the products in their drives home or even from their
office windows. The billboard adverts
serve to inform the customer’s of the company’s presence and products using
well known individuals in the sports industry and relating success to their
products. This communicates the idea that association with the company brings
with it success, and that, therefore, is an attraction for sports oriented
customers. A particular shortcoming of this is that it does not allow the
client to ask questions or rather does not provide an avenue to ask questions
or even air their opinion. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3HwuyL3AAw8rnl-ZjazHyWvDcWWTR0dB8t2m4ROQ6yMCUOebvE2Xxy2MJyqDkRE2DypuxGKZl9vSN1981rvAoBIpiEhQic_iV0wAecMdbm6UGyyJlxGBBEgZChnyfP0SDWoLhCE13Ncs/s1600/download.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3HwuyL3AAw8rnl-ZjazHyWvDcWWTR0dB8t2m4ROQ6yMCUOebvE2Xxy2MJyqDkRE2DypuxGKZl9vSN1981rvAoBIpiEhQic_iV0wAecMdbm6UGyyJlxGBBEgZChnyfP0SDWoLhCE13Ncs/s1600/download.png" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">The company also conducts
online campaign activities to correspond to their customers and to endorse
their products. Through the company website, clients can view pictures of the
products and give their views on the same and as such helping in the
development of relationships with clients. The company has a considerable
online presence, but it is meager in comparison to its largest competitor. It
has not been as aggressive as Nike in social media as a communication tool. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="Standard" style="line-height: 200%; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">In 2014, the company
intended to invest further in the digital space. This is likely to bring better
online presence as compared to the current situation. By investing more in the
digital space, the company will enjoy a larger audience from their customers
and easier more efficient way of sharing information regarding their products.
These platforms will help the company be in constant communication with its
customer’s allowing them to share an opinion and giving insight on ways in
which the company can improve a particular product based on the criticism
received from the clients</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="Standard" style="line-height: 200%; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">In conclusion, it is
evident that Nike’s web based communication strategy has proven to be more
effective in ensuring brand success. The hands on approach and its dominance in
the online platform has only worked to its advantage. With the increased
popularity of social site, s and more people relying on these sites for
information, the social sites are the perfect tool for the company efficiently
to communicate to the customers while allowing them to gain insight from the
consumers and market their products in simple, efficient ways. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="Standard" style="line-height: 200%; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">While Adidas has had
relative success from its methods, it has not fully incorporated the issue of
social media into its communication plan. This has slowed down its penetration
into the online platform of communication. As such, can be said that Nike’s
strategy is more practical and social media is a more feasible communication
plan since a large proportion of individuals have social media accounts
particularly the youth who are the main target group for both companies.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="Standard" style="line-height: 200%; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">It is thus recommended
that companies do not limit themselves as pertains to what plan to use in their
bid to communicate information on their products and services. Every possible
channel should be used, and particular emphasis laid in the online platform as
a tool for the exploitation of the internet as a communication strategy. Bearing in mind the current trends where
social media is the go to place for information. It is only proper, for them to
tap the full potential of these sites.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
gurl about townhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12890488165546682278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9064350855758101330.post-88780451346475288992016-03-28T18:51:00.002-07:002018-12-18T22:13:04.054-08:00AMERICA AND CUBA: How the relationship will change<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%;">American and Cuban relations deteriorated following the Cuban revolution in 1959 and ever since, there has been confrontation and tension between both nations. United States lacks formal diplomatic relations with Cuba, and an embargo has been maintained that makes it unlawful for corporations in the United states to conduct any business with Cuba .The embargo was imposed due to the nationalization of the property of United States corporations during the Cuban revolution. United States had explicitly stated that the ban will stay put for as long as the government of Cuba continues to refuse to move towards democratization and a value for human rights</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 200%;">.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%;">Following the events in 1961 and 1962, diplomatic and economic isolation became the primary thorns of United States policy to Cuba. This went on even following the collapse of the Soviet Union. Washington went further to strengthen the embargo with the Cuba Democracy Act of 1992. The act states that the ban cannot be lifted until when Cuba will hold free and fair elections together with transitions to a democratic government that does not include the castors. The current Cuban president, Raul Castro has made it clear he will leave office in 2018. A series of changes have been implemented to the trade embargo in order to allow for the export of some United States medical supplies and agricultural products to the island </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%;">. Cuban has incurred losses over the years because of the stringent trade restrictions.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%;">According to Farley (2004) in his book, <b><i>majority-minority relations</i></b> shows how conflict and ethnic stratification develops among groups. Initially, just like in the case of America and Cuba, when they initially come into contact, they display some accommodation and curiosity towards the other party. There is both conflict and cooperation, then America became dominant and as such, there are cast like relations with rigid restrictions impacted on the subordinate group which is, in this case, the trade embargo imposed on Cuba by America. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; text-indent: .5in;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 200%;">“Human Rights in Cuba are a significant concern for United States Policy Makers”<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%;">Human rights in Cuba are a significant concern for United States policy makers. It has been observed by the human rights watch that Cuba goes on to repress people and groups that criticize governance or ask for the basic human rights using detention, beatings, imposed exiles and travel restrictions. The report also notes that dozens of political foreigners and prisoners have been released from Cuban prisons in 2010 and 2011. Domestic politics in the United States made united states Cuba détente a political risk. The Cuban American people in South Florida traditionally had an influence over the United States policy on Cuba. Both Democrats and Republicans have feared to alienate a voting bloc that is strong in a critical swing state in presidential elections. The Cuban community has been for a long time been a significant role player in Republican support in presidential elections</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%;">. The trend has however changed as Democrats have in the recent past won the Cuban vote in Florida. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; text-indent: .5in;">
Towards the end of 2014, the American president, Barack Obama, and the President of Cuba Raul Castro announced the start of a process of the normalization of relations between the United States and Cuba.<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%;"> Negotiations were conducted in the Vatican City and Canada the agreement oversaw the lifting of several United States travel restrictions and lesser restrictions on remittances. United States banks would have access to the Cuban financial system, and there would be an established United States embassy in Havana that was closed following the Cuban affiliation to USSR in 1961.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%;">The meeting of the American and Cuban president came four months after they both announced that both countries would restore their ties. Successive administrations in the United States have been maintaining a policy of diplomatic isolation and economic sanctions against Cuba. The changes in the countries relations that was at first marked by a prisoner exchange and Havana releasing a jailed united states contractor prompted a number of experts to point towards better prospects for the economy in Cuba and united states relations broadly in the Latin America region. The United States trade embargo that requires to be approved by Congress to be repealed is not likely to be lifted soon. In addition to the prisoner's release, America agreed to reduce restrictions on remittance, banking, and travel and Cuba agreed to the release of fifty-three prisoners that had been classified by the United States as political dissidents. New trade and travel regulations were implemented in January that enabled United States travellers to visit sans having to obtain a government license.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%;">This is explained in the third phase of ethnic stratification where society progresses to become more industrial, modern and urban race relations are a class like and the competitive systems are more fluid. There are minimal legal restrictions on a subordinate group as is seen following the lifting of some of the travel restrictions to Cuba; however, the dominant group retains power by covert discrimination. Members of majority groups perpetuate cultural racism through the belief that the minorities that are disadvantaged situations are there due to influences from their culture. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%;">Countries that are determined by the united states secretary of states to have, on several occasions, provided support for acts of global terrorism are designated as per United States laws. The four primary categories of sanctions resulting in designation under the authorities are inclusive of restrictions on United States foreign aid. A ban on defence sales and exports controls over particular exports of dual-use items and other miscellaneous financial restrictions.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%;"> When a country is designated under the laws, other sanctions and laws are implemented that penalize the countries and individuals from engaging in trade with state sponsors.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 22.0pt; line-height: 200%;">New Changes<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%;">Cuba was designated to the list on March 1<sup>st,</sup> 1982. Following the signing of the new accord, the secretary of state will look into the country a fresh to make a review of the designation. Furthermore, earlier, there was a slew of travel restrictions barring American citizens and permanent residents in America from travelling to Cuba with a few exceptions. General licenses that do not require any special permission, are provided for individuals that are visiting a relative that is a Cuban national or persons that are travelling with them who share a common dwelling as a family with them. This was authorized by the United States president in 2009. General licenses will be provided for reasons that necessitated approval on a case by case basis; for instance, athletic competitions, public performances and workshops, humanitarian work in case of disaster, dissemination of information and travel that is related to the export of authorized products. It is imperative to note that travel restrictions inclusive of tourism will require congressional action to be lifted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%;">Banking and trade will also be impacted in the sense that before, no transactions that involve the property of Cuban nationals were allowed. For instance, the purchase of Cuban cigars or the signing of Cuba-related contracts with foreign firms.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%;"> Following the lifting of the embargo, American institutions will be able to hold accounts at financial institutions in Cuba. Cuban travellers will be allowed to use American debit and credit cards. American entities in third countries will be able to take part in meetings and transactions with Cuban people in third countries. Items or equipment that supports the private sector in Cuba will be allowed for export such as building and agricultural material. Companies providing telecommunication services will be allowed to set up the related infrastructure; American travellers that are licensed can import 400 dollars of goods inclusive of up to 100 dollars in alcohol and tobacco. It would, however, require congressional action to lift entirely the embargo.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%;">Remittances to religious organizations or close relatives have no limits. Travellers with authorization are allowed to carry 3000 dollars to Cuba in remittances. Before, the approved payments in every quarter will be made to any Cuban citizen for humanitarian reasons; this amount will be raised to 2000 dollars every quarter. In addition to that, earlier, there were requirements for a license for individuals that provide remittance forwarding services, the licenses will not be required any more following the agreement.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%;">It is apparent that the new agreement between the American and Cuban governments has brought forth several changes. For the most part, the changes in policies have been beneficial to both countries as they are both now able to conduct business together. While there is still a long way to go, in the reestablishment of good relations between both countries, it is evident that this is a step in the right direction and a good start. Nationals from both countries are likely to benefit from the fewer restrictions on imports and exports, and this is, therefore, likely to boost economic growth more specifically for Cuba. Particularly so, is that Cuba as a country is now able to benefit from investors in various service industries particularly from telecommunication services providers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
gurl about townhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12890488165546682278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9064350855758101330.post-8070567433143277662016-03-24T09:44:00.001-07:002016-03-29T13:20:11.889-07:00LET's GO VEGAN!!I tried vegan food a few weeks ago and frankly, it was nothing like I expected. As a meat lover, I was a bit skeptic about vegan food, cause you know, taste. which is quite dumb of me seeing as my diet is not entirely meat based.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So I made the decision to go vegan! I am not sure for how long, but, while it lasts, I am exclusively on a vegan diet. </div>
<div>
cutting out the dairy is going to be easy since I hate milk. And I have never liked eggs so, let's just say, I got it down to some extent.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
In the next few days I will start posting a couple of recipes of my own, that are vegan and delicious! from starters to desserts.</div>
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I am going to be honest and say, my greatest motivation here is not the taste, rather, it will be weight loss (yay! winning) and maybe better skin. I don't know.</div>
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So there you have it, I am going to be your lab rat; we can weigh the pros and cons of going vegan together and see if it is something we ought to do for a longer period or I am going through one of those phases.</div>
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Wish me luck!</div>
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</div>
gurl about townhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12890488165546682278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9064350855758101330.post-56748994186355006122016-03-24T09:24:00.000-07:002016-03-29T13:29:17.556-07:00Simple Recipe for a flatter stomachEvery girl, and boy, loves a flat stomach..<br />
<br />
But,<br />
we also love pizza, doughnuts, ice cream and bread...<br />
<br />
we just cannot win.<br />
As such, it is harder to tone our bodies, especially the stomach area.<br />
<br />
UNTIL NOW..<br />
<br />
That slouchy, bored and dull flab can all go away with this simple recipe using all natural ingredients you can find in your pantry.<br />
<b>what you need</b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>A tablespoon of ground ginger</li>
<li>A tablespoon of stevia (optional)</li>
<li>Half a tablespoon of Cayenne pepper</li>
<li>Five tablespoons of lemon juice</li>
<li>one liter of water</li>
<li>A tablespoon of Turmeric powder</li>
</ul>
<div>
<b>Preparation</b></div>
<div>
Bring the water to a boil</div>
<div>
cool for five minutes</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
add all ingredients to a jug and pour in the water </div>
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<br /></div>
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Drink at noon</div>
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Repeat these process and by ten days, you'll have some noticeable difference!</div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
And remember, lay off the sugars and fat, alright? And maybe don't drive everywhere, a walk doesn't hurt.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
bless you!</div>
gurl about townhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12890488165546682278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9064350855758101330.post-91198172649300532042015-11-30T06:06:00.002-08:002016-03-29T13:28:42.444-07:00Climate Change...Why we should start caringFor the most part, Climate change has been more of a phenomenon than a reality. We read about it in books, journals, newspapers ..but this channels of communication have been unable to have our attention long enough to make us care.<br />
<br />
Perhaps, and this is just a thought, it is because the projections that Earth will be inhabitable in the future seem so far away that we opt not to care, cause we won't be there? Have we become so uncaring? So selfish that we do not care for the future, for others that will come after us, for our children, and our children's children? <br />
<br />
Today, Part of China's population has to stay indoors because the air outside is hazardous. How ridiculous is that? That you have to stay indoors for fresh air! That, my friends, is an oxymoron. That is not how nature intended it to be. What makes it worse is that, it is our own doing, it is all our fault. it is our fault that the air is not breathable, it is our fault that the ecosystem is slowly dying. It is our fault that WE are dying.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
The earth is ours to take care of, it is also ours to destroy. Going by the look of things, we are set for destruction, if proper measures are not put in place, the end might not be as far as we think. The good thing, however, is that it is not too late to make a difference, to 'heal' the Earth. To allow the future generations to enjoy it as much as we did, as our fore fathers did.<br />
<br />
As global leaders discuss climate change, let us not sit back and wait for them to make the difference. It begins with you. You are the change you want...to quote the legend Michael Jackson 'Start with the man in the mirror, be the change.'<br />
<br />
REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE<br />
<br />
It is that simple, that is all it takes, the 3Rs. It starts at the household level, how you deal with your trash, then your neighbor, then the community and before you know it, something that started with you has had an impact so big, you could not have called it.<br />
So today, today I want us to think of sustainability, the use of the current resources at our disposal in such a way that the future generation enjoys them as well. <br />
let us do away with this selfish nature, this self centered nature that is going to be our destruction. Think about the future, your future even, the future of that little cute baby that smiled at you at the mall, how sad is it that that little baby will not enjoy the sound of birds in the morning, or a fresh breeze of air in the morning when he/she opens the window?<br />
<br />
It is about time we stopped shying away from being the first....It takes one brave move to start a craze...let the craze be climate change, caring for the environment, making Earth better...restoring it to its previous glory. Granted, we will need policy changes, how about we call out our governments on policies we know will harm the environment? Use your influence as a people to ensure governments make decisions that benefit the people and not their individual interests as leaders.<br />
<br />
<br />
BE THE CHANGE.<br />
<br />
Peace and Love.gurl about townhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12890488165546682278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9064350855758101330.post-61612437744152666742015-11-24T11:03:00.001-08:002016-03-29T13:12:36.257-07:00SIMPLE CAKE RECIPE FOR BEGINNERSIf you are a beginner , like me, you are probably looking for simple recipes that are easy to execute to build your confidence over time.<br />
<br />
if you love cake, who doesn't? you will love this simple cake recipe for passion cake.<br />
the cake is moist, fluffy and oh so delicious.<br />
<br />
I do not have a sweet tooth so I always cut down the sugar in most recipes. Doesn't make a difference anyway.<br />
so,here is what you will need<br />
2 cups self raising flour<br />
4 eggs<br />
1 cup sugar<br />
passion fruit pulp (equivalent of 10 passion fruits)<br />
2 tablespoons of softened butter<br />
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs6mTR4wwIttLA8lUFbxBtgVtPfv6DOV2Yn5XJmbGZD7J9sZJdjJHANR9yQ68c5BJThwyARqDWdb-TLyOh6BueadS5sjNuqK7Wmr-xhyvJupXlCoYY1Qh32aoehtVR9wywgyhf5SVP4Jo/s1600/WP_20151109_18_30_44_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs6mTR4wwIttLA8lUFbxBtgVtPfv6DOV2Yn5XJmbGZD7J9sZJdjJHANR9yQ68c5BJThwyARqDWdb-TLyOh6BueadS5sjNuqK7Wmr-xhyvJupXlCoYY1Qh32aoehtVR9wywgyhf5SVP4Jo/s320/WP_20151109_18_30_44_Pro.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
method<br />
pre heat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius (375 Fahrenheit)<br />
separate your eggs and whisk the butter with the sugar until you have a pale mixture<br />
add in the egg yolks and whisk. whisk in enough air as this is important in maing your cake nice and fluffy<br />
fold in the flour alternating with the passion fruit pulp.<br />
in a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites until soft peaks and fold into the cake batter<br />
pour your batter into two 9 inch cake pans and bake for 30-40 minutes or until a toothpick stuck in the middle comes out clean.<br />
<br />
you can accompany this cake with a passion fruit pulp syrup or a butter cream icing.<br />
<br />gurl about townhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12890488165546682278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9064350855758101330.post-1656419994879307272015-11-24T07:17:00.000-08:002016-03-29T13:18:49.920-07:00The best cake ever!!!...accidentally.. So, I made a cake!! Let that sink in for a minute....okay?<br />
<br />
Good..so I made a cake, a nice, coffee and chocolate flavored cake..<br />
granted, when I started making the cake I did not have the outcome in mind, you see, I was trying to make a red velvet cake but somehow, along the way, I messed a few things up...and well..let's just say I ended up with a brown cake! lol<br />
<br />
<br />
Here is what I used<br />
<br />
2 cups of all purpose flour<br />
1 cup vegetable oil<br />
2 cups sugar<br />
1 teaspoon baking soda<br />
1 teaspoon salt<br />
1 teaspoon of baking powder<br />
1 teaspoon pure distilled vinegar<br />
2 tablespoons of cocoa powder<br />
2 eggs<br />
1 cup coffee<br />
1 cup of buttermilk (maziwa lala)<br />
A couple of drops of red food coloring<br />
1 teaspoon vanilla essence<br />
<br />
<br />
here is what I ended up with<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUm_tOwd3AXqmkwMk-VIhmvcv9W2Vg2D_qz0gFOwZcxOvhDlufkBpM6N3CwfIqXNS5lza-qcqNNYmRj9N8gI_P7VeRpf-x9s3iMh552GlND1CQ916oAVN-wc15o7Kp2oyUkI0_wC3g4aw/s1600/WP_20151122_20_44_40_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUm_tOwd3AXqmkwMk-VIhmvcv9W2Vg2D_qz0gFOwZcxOvhDlufkBpM6N3CwfIqXNS5lza-qcqNNYmRj9N8gI_P7VeRpf-x9s3iMh552GlND1CQ916oAVN-wc15o7Kp2oyUkI0_wC3g4aw/s640/WP_20151122_20_44_40_Pro.jpg" width="358" /></a></div>
I know....not a red velvet cake..I must have put in too much cocoa, but the result was still impressive..I mean, this cake is insanely moist...and that coffee and cocoa combination is so awesome!! so you know..if you want a birthday cake or something like that, holla at your girl, and please be open to any outcome provided its cooked and tastes good.<br />
<br />
after all, we are about taste here and not looks, am I right?<br />
So, go easy with the cocoa and do not brew your coffee too strong as it will ruin the color.<br />
<br />
pretty much, sift the dry ingredients separately and everything else in a separate bowl then mix the dry ingredients in in batches.<br />
<br />
preheat your oven to 200 (celsius) or 375 farenheit and bake for 30-40 minutes. If a toothpick comes out clean, you are good to go.<br />
see you soon.gurl about townhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12890488165546682278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9064350855758101330.post-89666482307150187422015-09-25T16:30:00.001-07:002016-03-29T13:27:36.393-07:00WHAT'S THE DEAL AFRICA???For eons now,<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
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Eons...women and girls...have been dealt mean cards....</div>
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<br /></div>
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every fragment of society has been vindictive... political, social, economic....you name it.</div>
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It has been a long tedious journey...to 'freedom'</div>
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let me break it down...</div>
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feminist movements dating back to the stone age (I am sorry, too much? yes? )..</div>
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let's try this again, feminist movements, namely WID WAD and GAD have over the past years, before most of us were born, fought for equal rights for women and girls.</div>
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It all started in the united states, and the gallant women were able to achieve quite a lot in ensuring women were recognized as equal members of society. </div>
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from education, to politics to the economic situation..they wanted equality, they fought for recognition. </div>
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They were relentless...did not hold back on their demands and broke the 'pans' (any of you get the Agricultural reference? )on gender equality.</div>
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Africa</div>
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Africa has been a problem area for the recognition of gender issues....a primary barrier is probably the cultural beliefs that have been so problematic to break.</div>
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culturally, women in Africa have b been presumed as coming second to the men.</div>
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the boy child has a great advantage compare to the female counterparts;</div>
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boys will be sent off to school to get an education, as the girl child waits to be married off to the oldest highest bidder... that is discrimination in opportunity.</div>
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the girl child is not allocated the opportunity to learn and start off in the path to self dependence and empowerment.</div>
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if a girl does break this barrier, thanks to a learned father, or mother...or a social organization coming to her rescue, and goes to school ...you would think her problems have ended right? WRONG!!</div>
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let me start with college entry;</div>
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institutions of higher learning have a way of alienating girls from selection to courses that are 'presumed' to be suited for boys.....I mean the present statistics of the number of female engineers, doctors, actuary experts, architects..I mean the margins are dreadful..</div>
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why? why are engineering lecture halls swamping with male students while the female students are clumped up in social courses (not that social courses are a bad thing) ...but why this significant difference?</div>
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I will tell you why..it is because the girl child has been socialized to believing she is inferior to the boys, made to believe she can do no better in an engineering class regardless of whether she has the points to comfortably get admission to a medicine class....</div>
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If a girl, that lucky girl....is able to attend college, and pursue the so called 'male courses' she will be met with awe the moment she mentions what degree she is pursuing.... </div>
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"are you serious?" " why?" "isn't that course a tad too demanding for a girl?"</div>
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tell me the last time you heard a boy get taunted with questions when he mentioned he is an Engineering major? Not ever!!!</div>
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then comes the employment line; a girl will go through a somewhat discriminatory education system, graduate with the same qualifications as her male counterparts...</div>
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BUT...</div>
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she will not receive the same amount of pay as a male in the same position as he is...</div>
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I mean, is she not doing the same amount of work?</div>
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Is she not putting in enough effort?</div>
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why the double standards?</div>
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how, do we expect women to be fully empowered if we continue to hold back to give them equal opportunities, equal pay for equal work??</div>
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It would suck a lot if a decade from now,</div>
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we are still struck with awe when a woman runs for presidency</div>
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when a girl becomes an astrophysicist</div>
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this dumb mentality that seems to seep into even learned generation stinks, it reeks of rot ...</div>
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If I had a dollar, for every time a 20 something year old dude told me he would not seek the opinion of his girlfriend before making a decision.....I would be rich....</div>
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and that is sickening....not the me getting rich part...</div>
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but the fact that this is a learned guy, spewing gibberish.....in this age....</div>
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I mean, this is the beauty of it all, the fact that a learned woman could be so open minded into bringing change to a chauvinist society...whereas an equally educated male, reasons like an old chief in colonial Africa. </div>
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so maybe...just maybe, it is time to turn tables, how about the boys have a taste of their medicine....let them stay at home while they watch girls go to school, hold jobs...while they, the boys, wait to be auctioned off to toothless grannies in the village.</div>
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How about that society??</div>
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gurl about townhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12890488165546682278noreply@blogger.com0