Assignment 13A

Reading Reflection

I read about Andrew Carnegie

What surprised me the most was how successful he was before the age of 20. Heck really before the age of 18.

I admire his drive and his ability to learn when he came over to America. He tried his hardest to hide his Scotch accent. When he taught himself Morse code, he learned how to memorize it without writing it down. And when the broken messages would come through the lines he could piece them together without asking the sender to repeat them. I also admire how much he took care of his mother during his success. He made sure that she had servants and a nice house and lived in the best area away from the soot of the manufacturing.

I think what I admired least about this man was his ability to turn off his emotions and be heartless. When he was watching the railways for two weeks while his superior was gone out of town, there was an accident on the tracks and he quickly lost his temper and took action without asking, resulting in one man being fired and 2 being suspended without pay. In a time where work was hard to find, I did not like how quick he was to jump on someone who did not deserve it. He even admitted in the book that he felt he had over reacted but did not wish to go back on his words for fear of how that might have looked on him.

Carnegie did encounter adversity. That happened just because he was a Scott and he did not attend school. But because he continued to read and teach himself about many things, including politics, he continued to succeed. He was also a very small man but he demanded attention with his writings. He took a big stand on politics and that of slavery. He prided himself in helping his country with the movement of soldiers and weapons on his train lines. He also started the Carnegie Institute of Technology. He donated so much of his money in his later years after selling his business to J.P. Morgan. He opened almost 3000 libraries. He wanted to educate people and he admired teachers.

Carnegie was very competent in business and how to work his way up the ladder. He excelled at everything he did. He observed those around him and was also a self taught man. He was also very good at bluffing. He bluffed his way into his steel company so to speak. He worked for the Pennsylvania railroad for so long he was tired of their freight charges. His bluff to build his own railroad paid off, as PA lowered their freight prices. Carnegie also eventually came to own every piece of industry he needed to make his own steel business successful.

Carnegie's political dealings were a little confusing to me. Trying to read the old writings of that time period, combined with politics, doesn't make much sense to me

If I could ask him 2 questions......Why do you omit your father from so much of your writings?
If he could see where the industry was today, what would he think and what would his thoughts be on further advancement.

Carnegie I think believed in hard work but he didn't like the physical work part. He liked to be the office man. He worked hard in that aspect, never truly leaving work at home. He had power lines strung to his home so he could take care of emergencies right away had there been some mishap on the tracks. Carnegie believes in hard work but everyone has their version of hard work. I share this opinion whether you are a laborer or an office man. He saw his mother support their family for so many years instead of his father, he wanted make sure he made a different path for himself.

I like to run marathons. It pushes me and gives me an excuse to visit new places.

Assignment 15A

Buyer Behavior


Interviews

Eddie mid 30's works for Apple as an online specialist. very tech savvy

Eddie is big into electronics and gadgets. He also likes to do his research before buying anything. He will check the reviews and the manufacturers specs etc. Even if it's a simple purchase like shoes. He also prefers to shop online. He does not like brick and mortar retailers. He also like only the top of the line things. Price doesn't matter to him. Eddie also likes to buy everything on credit cards and pay them off at the end of the month. He usually ends up second guessing his purchases but hardly ever returns things. He is guilty of selling things he doesn't like and buying something else. Like a Nikon camera he purchased a few months ago for his side business of photography. He sold it online for half of what he paid for it and then bought a more expensive one.
( I wish I could be Eddie haha)

Monika early 20's works in retail for Buckle

Monika loves to shop. She hates shopping online unless there's something she really can't get in a store. She is on a tight budget so online shopping is probably better for her but she prefers the instant satisfaction of a purchase. Things also don't have to be brand new either. She like to go to resale shops and flea markets too. She prefers to pay in cash or with a debit card because she knows she gets herself into trouble with her credit cards. She keeps them for emergencies only. She makes sure her purchase is something she really needs at the time so she doesn't regret spending the money on it later. Although it she finds it cheaper some where else she will try and get the better deal.

Darrel mid 40's Bakery manager for Publix for 25 years

Darrel is a bit old school. He pays for everything in cash and hates to shop online. He hates shopping period unless its garage sales or pawn shops. He is a regular Mr. fix it and does handyman work on his days off. So he wants things right now and he will haggle the price with you if he can. His house is paid for and so are all of his vehicles. He doesn't want new and the latest and greatest. He wants to pay for something once and keep it for 10 or 20 years. He doesn't ever have buyers remorse. However his wife usually likes to make more purchases on a whim.

I think it really depends on the type of person you are. If you're a person that's really on a tight budget you are more likely to have buyers remorse, for basically spending that money that you shouldn't have. Then again if you're like Eddie, where money really isn't a part of your decision, you might never be satisfied with a purchase. You may think that there's something better out there. Eddie also like to send off for the newest Iphone when it comes out. whether he needs a new one or not. I think all of us do tend to research things whether we think we do or not. Even if it's comparing two different boxes of cereal at the grocery store. One's cheaper with the same ingredients, while one has a name brand and costs a bit more.

Assignment 14A

Halfway Reflection

1) Tenaciousness is a competency. What are the behaviors that you have used (or developed) to keep up with the requirements of this course? 

I have to make myself think outside the box. It's hard because I don't want to be an entrepreneur. I've never really wished to be a business owner or an inventor. i like working for someone else because to me it's safe. I've had to make myself see things from the other side. But with that being said I also have to basically run my own business within a major business. That's what being a manager is.

2) Tenaciousness is also about attitude. Talk about a moment or two when you felt like "giving up." What pulled you through? Do you feel like you've developed a tenacious attitude during the past two months? What experience or experiences most contributed to this?

I've felt like giving up for quite a few things in this course. I don't like interviewing people and writing about it. I also hate recording myself. I had to do that for a previous course and not a single bit of it was enjoyable for me. I've actually skipped 2 assignments in this course so far because i just didn't want to do them. I'll pay for it in my grade. I might not get that A I want but at the time I didn't care enough to do it because of things going on outside of the classroom. That's not the attitude to have but sometimes it just happens. I've given up on this degree several times as well, having to push myself through and get this far. I don't think my attitude is tenacious. This class is not hard, it's actually very easy, it's just my mindset that gets in the way.

3) Three tips. What are three tips you would offer next semester's student about (1) fostering the skills that support tenacity and (2) developing the 'tenacious mindset' ?

I would stay ahead of the game. I started that way and then got too comfortable and started slipping. I'm not behind by any means but I definitely push the threshold for due dates now. The professor is awesome and his lectures are enjoyable. If you throw yourself into the assignments it will be most enjoyable. Just keep an open mind when thinking about a business concept or idea.

Assignment 12A

Segment
Children and young adults. The parents of these children are the ones I chose to interview. One child (age 10) has autism and has a problem interacting with others.
The second child (age 16) is a paraplegic
I also chose 2 peopl to interview that would have a need for one of my trained horses.
One gentleman is an endurance rider that competes across the country. The other woman is an officer for the mounted unit back home in Florida.

Interview recap
The demand for both the sale of these horse and the riding program was met with positive feedback. The mother of the autistic child said she has previously taken her daughter to riding lessons before they moved here and it has helped tremendously with her confidence and interaction with others. While interviewing her she made it a point to tell me she would be my first client if I ever decide to pursue this here in the area. The 16 year old loves animals and didn't know riding horses would be an option for her. I even shared with her the special horse shows and paralympic equestrian games that other compete in.
My two interviews for the sale of my mustangs were great. I happen to ride the trails occasionally with the gentleman looking for an endurance horse. He has racking horses which do well on his trails but he was looking into the mustangs after going to an extreme mustang makeover competition. He would certainly be interested in my horses should I happen to have one come up for sale. The police officer currently rides for the mounted unit in Pinellas Park. They use draft horses currently but she also trains horses herself. She was very intrigued by this business idea. She loves the rescue horses and would help promote my business and love to have some of these horses on her unit.

Describing this segment

I think this business would be met with open minds and willing clients. Again it would all depend on where and how you did it. But hearing the positive feedback from different potential clients was great. I think the best place for this would be on the outskirts of a larger city. One of the mothers suggested I team up with 4-H for volunteers, which I think is a great idea.

Assignment 11A

Who Am I?
I am a bakery manager for Publix Supermarkets, a previous art student, cake decorator, and florist. I've spent most of my almost 30 years in the service and hospitality industry. At one time I was taking the culinary route and working in kitchens while pursuing my culinary arts degree. I am a very hands on person and excel well in an artistic setting. This is one of the main reasons I am so good at my current job. But I also have a passion for horses(and all animals), specifically rescues and rehabs
However, none of these things apply to what I actually wish to do when I retire from Publix. I'm pretty decent at running the financials of a business and understanding what it takes to make those things work, and watching my parents do it for so many years. This will help my future endeavor tremendously.
My dream business revolves around horses. I myself have 3 horses, two of which are mustangs that I adopted from the BLM wild mustang program. I have trained them from the ground up and have put countless people on them, from novice and children, to experienced and elderly. My business concept revolves around rescuing animals like this and not only finding them new jobs and homes but also using them to rehab others. Weather that would be handicap individuals, war veterans, children, abuse cases etc. I have volunteered with a few horses for handicap programs over the years and have always held a passion for it.
This business would never generate a huge profit, in fact it would most likely be a non-profit organization.

What am I offering? I'm offering 2 things.
Professionally trained BLM mustangs that are safe for beginners all the way to expert riders.
I am also offering therapy horses to those that need rehabilitation themselves
At some point I would like to host training clinics and help promote the adoption of these animals that need homes.

Who am I offering it to?
This is really going to be for a very specific demographic. Age and sex really plays no part in this business. The sale of the horses would be for the fellow equine community. But horse like these are also used in the Marine Core, the mounted unit for the U.S. Border Patrol, and several other law enforcement operations. This type of horse is also the ideal mold for endurance riders and those traveling across rugged terrain. They are a good sturdy horse with strong feet due to their background and living on the wild plains across the country.
The riding program would be geared more towards handicapped children and adults, war veterans, those with mental illness, or even those that are just rehabbing from a bad accident.

Why do they care?
People are willing to pay for programs that help their children and loved ones. This also gets them out of the house and into the fresh air. Most people have a kind heart for animals and they've been proven to help with things like PTSD and depression. Riding horses get's an entirely different grouping of muscles working, while teaching you balance and stability.
The sale of these horses will be a little harder for people who look down upon this breed. A lot feel they have no honorable blood lines and therefor should not be worth much. There is however a growing recognition for these horses. A lot of people in the horse community love the story behind them and wish to add one to their family.

What sets me apart?
There are already several rehab programs like this throughout the country, A lot do not survive due to funding, this is where the sale of horses helps out. But the trick to this business would be location and teaming up with a licensed psychologist.

I believe all these elements fit together but any equine business is a risk due to the high costs involved. It's all about teaming up with the right people and getting your name out there.

Assignment 8A

As stated previously in my blog:

Opportunity

A nation wide concealed weapons permit that requires an extensive background check and allows you to renew at the national level instead of the state level.

To dive into more detail of this opportunity I'll explain to you my frustrations. I'm originally from Florida and that is where I obtained my CWP. They are not an open carry state and their laws are more strict than the other two states I have lived in. I moved to Texas where I had reciprocity but did have to get a new permit to match my new TX license or I was not allowed to purchase any firearms. So I needed to go through another background check and pay $140 for a new permit. My FL permit was around $200. I moved back to Florida a few years later and had to once again change my permit. A year and a half ago I moved to TN for work. Guess what? Another freaking permit change. But this time I'm required to take ANOTHER CWP course. So not only do I have to pay for the course again but I also have to pay for another license at $100 plus the course fee.

So this is where my thought of 1 permit across the country comes in.

Product/Service

To obtain a nation wide permit you would need to pass an extensive background check and complete a training course. Gun laws would need to be the same across the nation as well. Weather that is to conceal or to open carry. They all need to be the same.

Assignment 7A

Opportunity

A nation wide concealed weapons permit that requires an extensive background check and allows you to renew at the national level instead of the state level. 

Who

Legal United States Citizens with clean backgrounds

What

Citizens are unable to obtain a CWP that is valid in all 52 states and requires a training course and background check.

Why

Currently CWP's are different for every state and not every state has reciprocity. You also have to transfer your CWP to a new state if you move, often times having to retake the class and pay extra money. Some states don't even require you to take a class. 

Hypothesis

I know there are many other people who feel this way. Currently the NRA is pushing for a bill to pass that would allow reciprocity in all 52 states. This would not however require all states to deem training courses necessary and to have 1 unanimous permit. They would still have each state issuing their own permits. Some states don't even require a permit for you to carry. open or concealed(Mississippi, Vermont, and Wyoming)

Why do we not have this already?

Mainly because all gun laws across 52 states would have to be reconfigured and those that are opposed to guns and where they should be allowed would probably pose a huge problem. It would take years of planning to put something this large into effect. 

Interviews

Interview 1.)  Male, Late 20's,Special Agent for Customs and Border Protection

Do you believe a nation wide CWP would benefit those who currently carry and those who wish to carry?

Yes and No. I myself am not required to have a CWP, my carry is recognized anywhere due to my position and my security clearance. However if I was to retire and go to a local law enforcement agency, most would require I obtain a CWP. I think reciprocity throughout the country would make traveling a lot easier for most citizens. If something like this were to happen I feel like stricter gun laws would need to be enforced for those that violate them.

2.) Do you believe that all states should require mandatory training classes before allowing any citizen to obtain a CWP?

Yes I do. There are too many people that are afraid of guns or do not know how to properly handle one. Gun safety is a huge issue. If the time ever comes for that person to actually defend themselves with a weapon, all sense of calm goes out the window. We should prepare those that wish to carry a firearm as best we can by teaching them the proper skills, physically and mentally.

3.)What are your thoughts on our current CWP laws?

It really depends on the state. I feel there are too many laws that are lax. There are currently 26 states that issue permits without ever actually requiring someone to shoot a gun! Do you know how stupid that is!? The kind of damage a person could do to themselves if they've never shot a gun before and try to protect themselves.

4.) The NRA is currently trying to push for reciprocity in all 52 states, issuing permits like a license. How do you feel about this?

It's a decent idea but I feel it would be a disaster. Too many fights and it would mean that all states would have to agree to honor other states laws. 

Interview 2.) Male, early 30's, Border Patrol agent

1.)Do you believe a nation wide CWP would benefit those who currently carry and those who wish to carry?

Okay on the surface that's not a bad idea. The second amendment is a constitutional issue, and as such federal laws make sense. Here's why i think it's a terrible idea. If you do that, it would almost certainly restrict gun laws. They would not compromise and meet at the most gun friendly state's level. it would almost certainly be more towards the overly strict end. Which would immediately impact the whole country instead of just one state.

2.) Do you believe that all states should require mandatory training classes before allowing any citizen to obtain a CWP?

That is fine by me. If it's your right-not to be infringed. then forcing me to take classes is an infringement and I don't dig that.

3.) What are your thoughts on our current CWP laws?

I think they're crap and there shouldn't be any

4.) The NRA is currently trying to push for reciprocity in all 52 states, issuing permits like a license. How do you feel about this?

Driving isn't a right. it's not guaranteed by anything. Firearms are guaranteed by the bill of rights in the constitution. Literally right next to freedom of speech and such. We shouldn't have permits at all. Gun's ARE dangerous and we DO have a gun problem, but that's the price of freedom. freedom IS dangerous.

Interview 3.) Female, late 50's, mother of 2, current gun owner

1.)Do you believe a nation wide CWP would benefit those who currently carry and those who wish to carry?

Yes

2.) Do you believe that all states should require mandatory training classes before allowing any citizen to obtain a CWP?

Yes

3.) What are your thoughts on our current CWP laws?

They need to be the same in all states. Travel is restricted due to different state laws. Some require you to keep weapons in trunk or disassembled when renders them useless. There's not enough training to get a CWP. Example would be a 1 hour sit down class at the fair grounds. That's bad. You need weapons handling training. Some people with CWP's have never fired a weapon which is dangerous in an emergency.

4.) The NRA is currently trying to push for reciprocity in all 52 states, issuing permits like a license. How do you feel about this?

Not a bad idea but it still doesn't standardize things with all states. I think the standardization needs to come first.

Interview 4.)Female, early 20's, college student, never shot a gun

1.)Do you believe a nation wide CWP would benefit those who currently carry and those who wish to carry?
Yes. Having different laws in every state to own a gun is just dumb.
2.) Do you believe that all states should require mandatory training classes before allowing any citizen to obtain a CWP?
Yes. I've never owned a gun or shot one. I grew up with a military dad but he never taught me to shoot.
3.) What are your thoughts on our current CWP laws?
I honestly don't know much about them. I've moved around so much and I just reached the legal age to even purchase a hand gun.
 4.) The NRA is currently trying to push for reciprocity in all 52 states, issuing permits like a license. How do you feel about this?
It seems like a good idea. More simplistic.

Interview 5.)Male, late 50's, retired fire chief
1.)Do you believe a nation wide CWP would benefit those who currently carry and those who wish to carry?
Yes, it sure would make it easier for my wife and I when we travel.
2.) Do you believe that all states should require mandatory training classes before allowing any citizen to obtain a CWP?
Yes. There can never be too much training. I always encourage my men to go get their permits and take courses. 
3.) What are your thoughts on our current CWP laws?
The requirements for getting the permit need to be the same across all states. Even with reciprocity you still need to know each states law before you drive over the line. Current laws really need to be even across the board.
4.) The NRA is currently trying to push for reciprocity in all 52 states, issuing permits like a license. How do you feel about this?
Like I just mentioned, reciprocity is great in all states but the lawmakers of each state can still get you for not abiding by their laws. If you go vacation in a state that has reciprocity for your home state that's great. But if they have different laws you might have to disassemble your fire arm before you even enter that state and keep it locked in the glove box. some states have a 3 step law to get to your fire arm before shooting it. I feel like this will just cause more issues in the long run if all 52 states don't lay our the same foundation.

So I definitely feel like I bit off way more than I bargained for.  Interview 2 was probably my most intense and my most informative. He was originally a literature and journalism major in college before becoming a BP agent. How the heck that happened, I have no clue. but he definitely opened my eyes to a lot of things I had not thought of before. Such as the stricter laws and drivers license no being a right, it's a privilege. The older mother of 2 was definitely passionate about this subject. Her and her husband are huge supporters of the NRA but don't agree with the law they are trying to push. 

I originally thought of this opportunity because I have moved to so many states and they ALL have so many different laws and require you to obtain a new CWP. As soon as you change your drivers license to that new state your CWP almost becomes void because you can't use it due to the fact that it no longer matches your current address. Definitely a lot of food for thought on this. I do believe there is still an opportunity for all 52 states to come under the same laws and have 1 unified permit for this. Or drop permits all together and respect the same gun laws.

Assignment 6A

Economic Trend #1

Dinner delivered trends and cooking made easy
*https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/business/2017/07/03/home-meal-kit-phenomenon/102544292/
This article describes how Blue Aprons helps keep a busy lawyer on the go.

 *The opportunity exists because people these days are always on the go and don't have time to grocery shop or cook for themselves. Or they buy too much at the store and it goes to waste before it's used.

* The customers for this can range from college students to single's that don't want to shop for just one, to the busy lawyer or the tired teacher.

* This can and will be exploited because we live in an age that's always on the go and getting faster.

Economic Trend # 2

Craft beer and the not-as-fancy-as-you-thought styles
*https://www.forbes.com/sites/taranurin/2017/02/24/2017s-hottest-new-craft-beer-trend-is/#4e12521d29e8
This article outlines the popular beer trends of 2017 and the popularity of Oktoberfest and their German Lagers.

* The opportunity exists because we are seeing more people shifting towards the popular brewery hangouts. Oktoberfest has also become widely known here in the states. The young generation is turning out to be a big foodie group with expensive tastes in beer. We are also seeing more support for the small business industries like these.

* Customers for this type of opportunity would tilt more towards the hipster side. Although I know people young and old that love a good beer at their favorite hang out.

* This can be exploited because of the growing trend for local digs and easy start-up for these small breweries.

Regulatory Trend #1

Importation of Orchids (Phalaenopsis and Cymbidium family) from Korea to the US

*https://www.regulations.gov/document?D=APHIS-2015-0091-0001
The article explains why these orchids have not been previously allowed into the US due to risk of plant disease and pests.

* There's an opportunity here because orchids from these particular families are quite expensive currently because of the cost associated with growing them. By importing them the prices will go down and increase the supply of demand.

* Those customers most directly effected by this would be floral wholesalers, florists, and those that buy from florists such as brides, event planners, etc.

* This would be easy to exploit because there is a need for it among floral shops.

Regulatory Trend #2

African American Civil Rights Network Act.

*https://govtrackinsider.com/african-american-civil-rights-network-act-would-create-a-network-of-sites-important-to-black-639b97ac66
This article describes how and where a network of black history sites would go into effect for the National Parks System

* I believe there is an opportunity for those around us to be reminded of where we came from and the struggles and challenges that were overcome to get here.

* The customers would be anyone. School aged children going on field trips. Vacationers. Neighbors. Friends.

* This one might be difficult to exploit due to the current divide that seems to be happening across our states, and the current political arguments.

Assignment 5A- Identifying Local Opportuniteis

Article 1
Another St. Pete neighborhood laments loss of its grocery chain
http://www.tampabay.com/news/another-st-pete-neighborhood-laments-loss-of-its-grocery-store/2336542

The Skyway Plaza shopping center has remained desolate since the closing of Sweetbay supermarket in 2013. This area of St Pete is in need of revamping to bring in new retailers. The locals are crying for a grocery store to come back in. Similar areas are going through the same dilemma. retailers and grocery stores are pulling the plug due to lack of sales and stability. Brixmor owns the shopping center and is still receiving payments from the contract Sweetbay signed for the lease until 2020. The Urban Land Institute has been hired by the city and Brixmor to devise a plan for revitalization. All of these plans include new construction to rejuvenate the site. but they do not include plans for a grocery store. With 2 Publix locations within 7 minutes of the shopping plaza they don't see it happening. Medical offices and personal fitness studios are more likely options. A bright new shopping center would provide more economic stability to the community.

The problem
No retailers in the plaza

Who has the problem
The city
The owners of the property
Realitors
Residents
Visitors
Power company that supplies the shopping center

Article 2
Subs and Clubs reopens after forced shut down due to car accident
http://delrionewsherald.com/news/article_a8e12514-929d-11e7-9634-f7359c3d51fc.html

*Just a forefront to this story. I lived here for 3 years before returning to Florida in 2014. Subs and Clubs is delicious and a small town staple for more than 20 years!)

Subs and Clubs was forced to close 2 months ago due to a car driving through the dining room area earlier this summer. The drive through reopens today while the dining room still remains under construction and on hold due to a delayed shipment of furniture from Houston.

The Problem
Longtime Del Rio staple was shut down for 2 months

Who had the problem
The owners
Employees
Residents
Customers
Vendors that supply the sub shop
Utilities that supply the shop

Article 3
DA Crump says opioid epidemic to worsen first
http://clevelandbanner.com/stories/da-crumpsays-opioidepidemic-toworsen-first,65346?

The District Attorney makes a statement about the worsening opioid problem in Cleveland and across other parts of Tennessee. This year Bradley county is already up to 18 deaths due to overdose and is expected to double that by the end of the year. 53% of these overdose deaths come from drugs in the medicine cabinet. The deaths range range from preteens to the elderly. Bradley county is teaming up with DA's all over the state to crack down on pharmaceutical companies and promote awareness.

The Problem
Increase in deaths of all ages due to overdose on opioids.

Who has the problem
Users of over the counter medications
Pharmacists
Parents
Retailers of the medicines
Pharmaceutical companies
School systems
Hospitals and Dr's offices
Attorneys
*There are so many to identify the list could seriously go on and on*

Article 4
 Food City starts home delivery of groceries in Chattanooga
http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/breakingnews/story/2017/sep/07/food-city-starts-home-delivery/447695/

Food City is partnering with Instacart to provide home delivery of groceries ranging from a time span of one hour to seven days. The partnership provides Food City customers with a one year free subscription to Instacart for orders over $35. They are also offering shoppers $20 off their first order and prompting customers to use their Food City ValuCard at check out for additional savings and ValuPoints. There is a clear demand for high quality grocery delivery.

The problem
Grocery needs for people on the go or those that cannot get to the store themselves

Who has the problem
Busy parents
People without a vehicle
Elderly people
Teenagers
College students on campus without transportation
First responders that can't leave the station
Business owners with no time to shop

Article 5
Students kicked out of class for Trump shirts, school district apologizes
http://www.tribuneledgernews.com/ledger/students-kicked-out-of-class-for-trump-shirts-school-district/article_005658d0-9192-11e7-b82f-270cd529bc2a.html

The Cherokee County School District stands behind their students after a High School math teacher asked 2 of her students to leave class for wearing " Make America Great Again" shirts. The students were not in violation of dress code and the math teacher has not been named but disciplinary action, which has not been released, was taken. The principal of the school immediately appologized to the students and the family after being alerted to the issue.

The problem
Professional educators not keeping their personal political opinions out of their work.

Who has the problem
Students
Parents
Fellow educators
Board of Directors
Principals

Assignment 4A- The unmet need

I believe there is an unmet need for a 24 hour coffee shop in Cleveland,TN. I moved here from Dunedin/Clearwater, FL area where everything is open late or all the Dunkin Donuts are 24 hours. Here in Cleveland we have 3 college campuses and many retail shops with workers going in at all hours of the day. Most of the gas stations around here are not open 24 hours either. The pumps are open but the store fronts are not. There are few places to grab coffee and a bite to eat early in the morning or past 10 o'clock at night. Currently the Starbucks and Dunkin Donuts open at 5:30 in the morning. Someone like myself, who has to be to work at 5 am has no where to grab something. College students have no where to get out of the house and study late at night or early before class. Police officers, first responders, hospital employees have no where to go either.

Interview # 1

Fellow coworker for Publix. Cake decoartor. 21 year old female.

Monica has to be to work at 5 am to open the decorating side of the bakery. She drives from Chattanooga to Cleveland every day, which is a good 25 minute commute.

Question 1: Are you an avid coffee drinker?
Yes!

Question 2: Do you stop for coffee/breakfast on your way to work, or make it at home?
I'm not a huge breakfast person, I usually have a bowl of cereal in the morning. There's NOTHING FREAKING OPEN at 4 o'clock in the morning! At home (Florida) I stopped at Dunkin every morning on my way to work. Right now I make coffee to bring with me, but I suck at trying to make iced coffee, and at 4 in the morning lets be real, who wants to make anything. I would rather someone else do it and I just pay for it.

Question 3: When did you become aware of this need for a 24 hour coffee shop?
My first day in Tennessee!

Question 4: Do you only have coffee on your way to work?
No. I'll have it on lunch as well. There's also times when I have it late at night. For example when we work the holidays, the week of a major holiday we keep the bakery running 24 hours. Usually the 3 days prior to Christmas or Thanksgiving I go in at 10 pm and work all night with the bakers. That puts my lunch break somewhere around 3 in the morning. If I don't bring lunch with me I'm screwed because I can't purchase anything at work, the registers are closed. Usually at that point I just want coffee anyway.

Question 5: How satisfied are you with your current solution for no 24 hour coffee shops?
Eh, it could be worse. Making coffee at home isn't the end of the world, it saves me money. But if Dunkin does ever decide to open 24 hours up here (Cleveland,TN) my coffee pot would probably go back into hibernation in the cabinet.

Interview # 2

Line operator for Flowers Bakery of Cleveland. 27 year old male.

Brad works the night shift at Flowers and oversees the production and packaging of breads such as Sunbeam and Natures Own. Flowers operates 24 hours a day with the exception of holidays and Sundays. Brad is local of Cleveland,TN

Question 1: Are you an avid coffee drinker?
I didn't used to be, but working the night shift has made me a fan of coffee.

Question 2: Do you stop for coffee/breakfast on your way to work, or make it at home?
I don't usually stop for breakfast because I work nights but I can usually make it to the Dunkin on 25th St before it closes on my way in. I hate making coffee at home. I'm too lazy.

Question 3: When did you become aware of this need for a 24 hour coffee shop?
When I started school at Cleveland State University (3 years ago). Pulling all-nighters became a regular thing for me before exams and major due dates for papers. Terrible I know but working and school at the same time didn't give me much choice in the matter.

Question 4 : Do you only have coffee on your way to work?
Depends. On my off day's I might drink soda or grab an iced tea.

Question 5: How satisfied are you with your current solution for no 24 hour coffee shops?
What solution? *hahaha*

Interview # 3

Operator for Mars Candy Co. Cleveland,Tn. 33 year old male.
Matt oversees the production of peanut M&M's. He has rotating shifts every 2 weeks which can put him into work as early as 4am or as late as midnight.

Question 1: Are you an avid coffee drinker?
Yes. I prefer it black.

Question 2: Do you stop for coffee/breakfast on your way to work, or make it at home?
Depends on what shift I'm working. If I happen to be on a mid morning shift I'll grab coffee at Starbucks on my way since it's right across the street from my house. If I'm working a midnight shift there's nothing open but 1 tiny gas station. Sometimes I'm desperate enough for the sh*ty gas station coffee, but I'd prefer to not drink burnt oil *haha*

Question 3: When did you become aware of this need for a 24 hour coffee shop?
When I first moved to Cleveland 3 years ago I was a manger for another company and worked a lot of overnights. I came here from Port St Lucie, FL and we had a 24 hour Dunkin. Tried to drive through Dunkin my first week here only to find they weren't 24 hours. Bummer too because I really want some Munchkins for a sweet pick me up on those midnight shifts.

Question 4: Do you only have coffee on your way to work?
No I'm one of those people that drinks coffee all day year round. Could be 98 degrees outside and I want a steaming cup of black coffee.

Question 5: How satisfied are you with your current solution for no 24 hour coffee shops?
I don't really have a solution. Both my girlfriend and I work non traditional jobs and we sleep in as late as we can before work. If nothing is open then we just grab a RedBull or suffer through *hahaa*

Reflection
All 3 of my interviewees work non traditional jobs, and 1 of them is a college student. They all seem to have the same needs as myself. Nothing is open 24 hours. I only conducted 3 full interviews but I did ask quite a few more people (upwards of 10) how they felt about a 24 hour coffee shop in the area. Specifically a Dunkin Donuts. Only one person said no, and it wad an older woman in her 70's who didn't feel it was right to have someone working that late for coffee. What I did learn that was surprising is just how many major industries are running around my area. Amazon, FedEx, VW, Mar's, Flowers. The list continues. All of these places run 24 hours.

Summary
All of my original opportunity is still here. My opportunity is still very accurate especially after talking with people around the area. Many people commute from here into Chattanooga. Lee University and Cleveland State are large campuses with thousands of students. The major companies like those listed above have thousands of employees. Then there's the employees of my Publix who start their shifts at 4 and 5 in the morning. There's so much opportunity for a 24 hour coffee shop, specifically Dunkin Donuts, up here. I chose Dunkin because it's well known and already established up here. There's one on campus of Lee University and one on 25th St which is literally right off the interstate at exit 25. If anything I believe this assignment solidified my belief.

Entrepreneurship Story

My Story

I've been around entrepreneurs my whole life. Both of my parents started their own business before I was born. My step-sister's parents are also entrepreneurs. I guess you could say it runs in the family. If you've ever donated blood on campus or anywhere in the state of Florida really, chances are you were in a blood mobile that my parents built. They own a company in Clearwater,FL that build blood mobiles for what used to be Florida Blood Services but has now merged with several other blood banks to become One Blood. I have literally seen my parents company go from a business in our home, to a multi-million dollar company that, at one time, delivered buses all over the country. My step-sisters parents own a similar company in Hudson,FL. My brother and his wife work for my dad but are venturing off to start their own mechanic shop, mainly focusing on diesel engines and auto repair. 

 Growing up around this has definitely given me an appreciation for hard work and dedication. There were some years the company didn't make it out of the red, and other years the company had so much business they had to turn it away because they couldn't physically handle the capacity at the shop. It's made me fearful to start my own business because you don't have a guaranteed paycheck or benefits or set hours. My dad worked from sun up to sun down every day and he was constantly on call to go fix broken down blood mobiles. We lived a pretty comfortable life growing up, so for that I am thankful. But the risk of it and the stress and pressure I saw on a daily basis was too much for me to handle. I said I would never own my own business and I was ok working for someone else that had job security and stability. 

 Some day when I retire and my husband is a store manager I might have my boarding facility for horses. But that's a long shot.

 Seeing my parents lead people and put in a hard days work have made me the great manager I am today. Neither one of my parents have college degree's but my mom can run books and numbers better than most accountants I know and my dad has yet to come across and engine or generator that he couldn't fix.
Honestly the main reason I chose this class is because it was required for my degree. However now that I have seen the course work and the books I'm looking forward to learning more about this.

The refrigerator magnet is what our old buses used to look like. Now most of them are red.

The second picture is my dad and I at Cape Canaveral. The bus we are standing in front of is one that my dad built as a learning unit for kids to learn about the space program. The inside was all computers and workstations for kids. 

My Bug List

My Bug List

11.)    I recently purchased a home and the kitchen is the hottest room in the house, without having the oven or stove on.

Why does it exist: The sun rises at the back of my house and it shines through my sliding glass doors all day. It is also a 1970’s home and probably does not have the greatest ventilation.

22.)    I work in a bakery all day and one of my freezers is constantly freezing over and producing sheets of ice all over my boxes and floors.

Why does it exist: These freezers were not designed to stay this cold and have a constant flow of people going in and out of them all day.

33.)    The Cleveland, TN Gold’s Gym is the most humid and hot Gold’s I have ever been to. It also has a musty smell to it.

Why does it exist: The building is old and two stories with a previous leaking roof problem. It also most likely has poor ventilation and the collection of warm, sweaty bodies creates the humid environment,

44.)    The Santek Waste Services company that collects my trash every Friday does not pick up bulk garbage. They only take what you put in their designated trash cans. This results in me having to take my large black garbage bags and recycling to the city dump.

Why does it exist: The garbage trucks Santek uses only have one operator, the driver. The trucks have large mechanical arms that pick up the designated trash cans, therefore not allowing bulk pick up such as old cabinets and black trash bags.

55.)    Every Starbucks I have ever been to always spells my name, Ali (short for Aliese) wrong (even when I have my name tag on for work).

Why does it exist: Aliese is an uncommon name and most people are used to Ali being short for Allison. Spelling my name wrong when I have my name tag on is just a complete lack of paying attention. The baristas are usually in a hurry and just type in what ever sounds right to them.

66.)    We receive frozen trucks at my Publix bakery in Cleveland three days a week. They recently changed our delivery schedule to a window of 5am-8am. This now makes our Wednesday and Sunday mornings the most difficult days of the week due to scheduling and sale ad changes over on top of a frozen truck delivery that has to be put away upon arrival.

Why does it exist: The change of truck schedules is due to an increase of stores and a lack of warehouse space to provide for these stores. This in turn makes Wednesday and Sunday the most difficult days of the week because we only get one hour to take care of multiple things before the store opens at 7, and on these days our scheduling system generates the least amount of hours for bodies in the department to work.

77.)    My trash service, Santek, only picks up one day of the week, Friday. If you forget to put your can out you’re screwed until the following Friday.

Why does it exist: Because most companies are trying to cut back on costs. Running garbage trucks and paying an operator for collection two days a week to every house is a substantial amount of money. By only running one day a week for each house they save money on gas, payroll, and operating expenses.

88.)    My house is fenced with chain link and it runs all the way around the house, including my front yard. In order to let my dogs out I have to close the front gate, which is 14’ long and has a broken wheel, to my driveway.

Why does it exist: Because the previous owner had taken down the sections of chain link that connected the perimeter of the fence to the side of my house, therefore allowing the front gate to remain open while animals or children were in the back yard.

99.)    The pressure of finishing a college degree. Everyone in this generation is pressured to get a degree or they will equate to nothing.

Why does it exist: The millennial generation doesn’t want to be blue collar. So many jobs are based around education now instead of experience. Your social status is now based off of what college you went to.

10.)   My store manager likes to “beat a dead horse”. He can never just let the subject go after speaking with you about it once.

Why does it exist: Because he does not like the same mistake repeated twice and he wants to make sure you understand how serious he is. He also wants to be the best and make sure he pushes you to be your best.

111.)   Why does every brewery I go to have an overabundance of IPA’s.

Why does it exist: Because craft beer is a trend right now and apparently hoppy beers are everyone’s favorite. They try to be different from the big chains.

112.)    Cell phones break so easily these days and cost a fortune to replace or fix. My Iphone screen cracked a few months ago and my insurance refused to cover it. Even though they have covered everything in the past. What’s the point of paying the monthly premium if you can’t use it?

Why does it exist: Everything these days is made to be disposable. Products, especially electronics, are no longer made big and bulky. Everything today needs to be faster and smaller. Resulting in weaker products.

113.)   I have been in college on and off since 2007, earning 2 different degrees. In this time span I have seen technology completely take over. I hate virtual text books. Most teachers offer a code for the E-text these days, which is cheaper than a real book. Why do text books have to be electronic.

Why does it exist: Because the world is becoming more and more tech savvy. Book stores are going out of business because everyone has a Kindle or a Nook these days. It’s cheaper for editors to produce and E-text than pay someone to print and bind copies of real books.

114.)   Music is getting harder to find on CD’s these days. I still prefer a hard copy of my music.

Why does it exist: No one wants to have to drive to a store to get music anymore. Just like a lot of people don’t want to go out to a book store or a library and hunt down what they need. They want it now. It’s easier to download the album on Itunes than to go find it in a store front.

115.)   We have what we call touch points at work. They are areas of the department that are constantly touched throughout the day. I.E. door handles, oven handle, cooler doors, display case handles, and counter tops. I hate it when these are not continuously wiped down throughout the day.

Why does it exist: My associates are constantly running all day and they don’t think about wiping down the areas. Or they don’t take their gloves off before they touch a door handle, and it in turn gets covered in donut icing.

116.)   Why do people have such a hard to staying organized at work. Things in disarray make me anxious and pissed off. It’s not that hard to stay organized while you work.

Why does it exist: Again my associates are constantly running and on a time crunch. Especially my decorators. They have a habit of tossing their boxes on the floor and not cleaning up one mess before starting another project.

117.)   I hate it when guys at the gym constantly stare at themselves in the mirror and lift up their shirts.

Why does it exist: It’s probably due to them wanting to see their results, but I would just chalk that up to ego.

118.)   Dunkin Donuts isn’t open 24 hours!!!!!! I’m originally from Clearwater/ St. Pete area and I was transferred to TN for a promotion with Publix. Every Dunkin back home is 24 hours. Up here in the Chattanooga/Cleveland area they don’t open until 5 or 5:30am. Sunday’s they don’t open until 6. So when I have to be to work before that time I’m screwed for coffee. (Making it at home just isn’t the same)

Why does it exist: Because I moved to the bible belt and most places in this area open late or not at all on Sunday’s. And perhaps it isn’t a busy enough area to support a 24 hour chain.

119.)   Why does everyone text these days instead of calling. I had someone try to text in sick from work instead of calling.

Why does it exist: Because people are always in a rush and just want to send a quick text instead of calling. Even Doctor’s appointments and vet confirmations are made via text message now.

220.)   My favorite beers are porters and stouts and I have the hardest time finding them on tap in the summer months.

Why does it exist: Most people want light beers during the hotter months of the year. Porters and stouts are heavy and thick and are more of a cold weather beer.

Reflection

I didn't necessarily find the list of 20 things difficult to come up with. I just thought about it as I went through my week. When something popped up I made a note of it. Explaining why the bug's existed was a little more challenging. Some of them I really didn't have a clue on. Like the men at the gym constantly lifting up their shirts. Normally I would have a smart alec comment about something like that, but making myself think about it was a little more difficult. It was an interesting assignment. I honestly probably could have kept on going with bug's. Heck I probably could have made a whole list just about work.

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