Week 3: Identifying Local Opportunities

Article 1: Homelessness

Title: Harsh treatment towards homeless sadly nothing new in Florida

http://infoweb.newsbank.com/iw-search/we/InfoWeb?p_product=AWNB&p_theme=aggregated5&p_action=doc&p_docid=1519C3C9E1778910&p_docnum=6&p_queryname=2

The article discusses the problem of homelessness throughout Florida, and the harsh treatment toward homeless people. It is actually illegal in Florida to feed a homeless person, and is prosecuted as a criminal offense. In short, it discusses the public perception and legal consequences of feeding the homeless.

The problem is homelessness. This is something that we have all experienced first hand. Unfortunately, not everyone is privileged enough to have a roof over their head, so some people have to live on the streets.

It is a problem for everyone because not only could you potentially be living on the streets if economic conditions were bad enough, but it is human nature to have a heart and feel bad for the people who got there. They may be collecting governmental assistance, which you are contributing to in part, so I feel like it impacts everyone in some way. The actual homeless people and government who created these ordinances have the most direct roles, but to some degree, it affects us all.

Article 2: Shopping Local

Title: Shopping from smaller and home-based businesses this holiday season

http://infoweb.newsbank.com/iw-search/we/InfoWeb?p_product=AWNB&p_theme=aggregated5&p_action=doc&p_docid=133AE4E76B21FA18&p_docnum=3&p_queryname=5

The article discusses shopping local as an alternative to department stores and megastores, to support your local economy. It also has a more unique selection of items and helps to fund your local community.

The problem presented is shopping from local businesses instead of larger chain retail stores. Funding the local economy is becoming increasingly important, and it is a great opportunity to encourage local spending to keep money circulating throughout ones own community.

This is a problem for small business owners who have to compete with larger chains. There prices are often a lot lower, so many local establishments are closing because they can no longer compete.

Article 3: Social media

Title: How to benefit from social media

http://infoweb.newsbank.com/iw-search/we/InfoWeb?p_product=AWNB&p_theme=aggregated5&p_action=doc&p_docid=138309C3F24F49A8&p_docnum=2&p_queryname=6

The article discusses the use of social media as an asset for an individual or business. Creating a bond and relationship with potential customers, marketing and branding your company name, and personalizing your image are among many of the benefits.

The problem is keeping up with technological advances and ensuring your business is up to date with major trends. Social media is a major craze right now, and is a great way to communicate with others if used effectively.

Those who do not use social media or use it ineffectively have the problem. As a current trend, it is important to maximize the potential of businesses. It is important to take advantage of social media and use it as a tool for branding and marketing.

Article 4: Special Education

Title: Be positive about their future

http://infoweb.newsbank.com/iw-search/we/InfoWeb?p_product=AWNB&p_theme=aggregated5&p_action=doc&p_docid=13A6F689A4946140&p_docnum=2&p_queryname=10

This article talks about the importance of special education and ESE curriculum in schools. It also discusses the significance of remaining positive and how to cope with special needs children.

The opportunity here is bettering special needs programs and education. In addition, it is educating the public and outreach on how they can help.

The portion of the public that is uneducated about special needs has the problem. It is essential that people take the time to educate themselves and don’t judge what they don’t understand.

Article 5: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

Title: Live Green: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

http://infoweb.newsbank.com/iw-search/we/InfoWeb?p_product=AWNB&p_theme=aggregated5&p_action=doc&p_docid=13424EF8B87D97F8&p_docnum=2&p_queryname=12

This article gives conservation tips on how to do your part in eliminating some personal waste. Each tip helps to save the environment and helps your budget to save money in the process.

The problem presented is environmental conservation and lessening our environmental footprint. It is important because we have a limited number of resources and need to help save the planet for future generations to come.

Again, this is an issue for everyone because we can all help to contribute and lessen our impact on the world for future generations. By using the tips in the article, every individual can contribute in some way to make small changes that all add up over time.