Many individuals have enabled me to complete this unique research project.

First of all, gratitude must be expressed to Mrs. McComas, my CD. 315 instructor, for proposing the great challenge of this research project. Throughout this adventure, I have learned an incredible amount of valuable information related to researching, accessing, and analyzing information online, as well as, how to further develop my organization and time-management skills. She has helped to direct (and re-direct) my thinking countless times during this project and I appreciate her guidance and encouragement.

My group members, Heather, Cheryl, and Rikki, were also essential in the completion of this project. Their encouraging comments, insightful suggestions, and creative minds were constant sources of motivation and reassurance throughout the semester. I am very thankful for all of their help.

I would also like to thank my roommates, Emily and Brooke, for their patience and understanding while I tied up the phone line and computer for countless hours this semester in order to work on this project. These girls put up with me “behind the scenes” of this vast undertaking, and that is truly an accomplishment in itself.

Last, but not least, I must express my appreciation to my mother, Sue Ann, for her constant inspiration and support throughout this project. She allowed me to vent my frustrations and anxieties to her regarding my work and also gave me many wonderful ideas for this project.

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