Write a brief (250-300) word analysis of the selection you read from Hard Times.  Turn in your prewriting with the final draft of your analysis.

The Medicare system is currently undergoing a dramatic shift, as the number of people participating is increasing, which in turn has enormous consequences for how it is funded.  Some argue that Medicare spending is out of control and will result in a collapse of the system if nothing changes, while others claim the system is doing well and is meeting the needs of the millions of Americans who have no other health care. For this discussion, you will participate in a debate with your classmates about Medicare.

Students with last names starting with the letters A-M will be on the “Maintain Medicare As-Is” side.

To start, you will need to craft your initial argument in support of the side you have been assigned based on your last name (either maintain or reform).  This post must be a minimum of 300 words.  Describe how the organization and delivery of Medicare and the social, financial, legal, ethical, and regulatory forces impact your side of the debate.  Remember, your post must analyze how these factors work together to support your assigned view on Medicare reform.  Even if you do not personally agree with the side that has been assigned to you, you must still present a convincing argument that upholds that side in your initial post and your responses.  

Your initial post must include:

1. A succinct thesis statement that demonstrates your stance on the topic.
2. A clear explanation for your rationale and examples to support your view.
3. A minimum of two scholarly, peer-reviewed sources. One of these sources may be from the course Required and/or Recommended Resources, and at least one must be obtained through the Ashford University Library. 

will be almost one or two pages. 

“Corporate-level Strategies”  Please respond to the following with detailed comments and analysis (Note: please watch the longer video in the “Other Preparation Items” link in Week 7):

• From the e-Activity, analyze the essential manner in which the new Southwest-AirTran merger and resulting low-cost structure strategy could maximize both companies’ long-term profitability. Support your response with at least two (2) examples that illustrate the manner in which each company would avoid risks associated with becoming too dependent upon its corporate partner.

• From e-Activity, determine the fundamental drawbacks associated with horizontal integration.

• Suggest another corporate-level strategy that could redefine the Southwest business model and thus allow the company to increase its competitive advantage within a changing industry environment. Provide a rationale to support your response.

Would like question 1 and 2 by Wednesday. The rest by Friday

Answers only need to be at least 300 words.