Time is money free essay sample

Time is money a quote by Benjamin Franklin, US first millionaire, is a proposition that stresses the importance of time and the need to use it wisely. Time is the most valuable thing in the world, that once it has been wasted, it can never be recovered. So, by this idea it implies that time is more valuable than money itself, money can be exchanged back and forth and if you lose It you can gain It back by working hard.Some people view time as minutes, hours, days, but I view time as opportunities waiting to happen. We commonly run Into people who may have wasted their time In pursuits and then realized later In life that they have achieved nothing at all. These people are like the grasshopper In the Ant and the Grasshopper story, If you have not read it story, the moral Is working hard pays, In which the ant prepares for the future, while the grasshopper Just lays around. We will write a custom essay sample on Time is money or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Every second we waste, we are losing our rewards of our own productivity. People who dont understand the value of time will never obtain a good future. For example, If one comes In late to work every day. One will be fired. If one keeps Important clients , It will result In loss of business. So we must acknowledge the value of time not only ours but everyone around us. Procrastinating things for another day are all these are habits that will leave you nothing to show in the future. Some people spend all their free time watching TV, talking on the phone. This does not create opportunities it steals the time we have with nothing to show for it. Success and material prosperity comes only to those who understand the value and importance of time. That is why it is said that time is money so in other words put in the time wisely you will get the success you desire.

Bad Reporting VS Government Cover

Bad Reporting VS Government Cover Bad Reporting VS Government Cover-up Essay Bad Reporting VS Government Cover-up Upon the signing of the Constitution, the American people were given many rights and liberties. One of those rights is the right of freedom of speech. Americans tend to think that they also have the right to receive full, correct information from the media. Yet this idea has become seemingly absurd. Even Thomas Jefferson, one of the main contributors of the American Constitution and the third president of the United States once said, â€Å"The man who reads nothing at all is better educated than the man who reads nothing but newspapers.† This proves that even long ago the public had the understanding that the media readily edits the type, amount, and content of the â€Å"facts† they reveal. The series of events that the media reported during the terrorist attacks of September 11 2001, greatly demonstrate the media’s ability to edit and negotiate facts. Some of the main information that the media reported that day was about the hijacked airplanes. It all star ted at 8:00 am with American Airlines Flight 11 that was carrying 92 people, it departed from Boston and headed for Los Angeles. Just a few minutes after the plane departed, it was hijacked and subsequently redirected towards New York. At 8:14 am, Flight 175 from United Airlines also departed from Boston, but only carrying 65 people, and within five minutes the plane’s identification transponder had been shut off it was also being hijacked and turned away from Los Angeles and towards New York. Next, at 8:21 am, American Airlines Flight 77, carrying 64 people, took off from Washington and also was originally headed towards Los Angeles but was forced to change its course and was redirected toward New York too. Yet, it was not until 8:40 am, that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) notifies the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) about the first â€Å"suspected† hijacking of American Flight 11. It took them an astounding 40 minutes to notify the proper authorities. Then at 8:41 am United Air Lines Flight 93, Boeing 757 with 44 people on board, it takes off from Newark with a destination of Los Angeles. It was not until 8:43 am that the FAA notified NORAD about the second â€Å"suspected† hijacking this time of United Flight 175. Sadly, at 8:46am, Flight 11 slams into the North Tower at the World Trade Center, between floors 93 and 99. The aircraft struck the north side of the tower. Continuing at 9:03am the South Tower at the World Trade Center was plunged into, from the south, by Flight 175. By this time, America was in complete devastation and a contributing factor was that there were many conflicting and confusing â€Å"Breaking News† reports being broadcasted. 9:24 am the FAA notified NORAD about another â€Å"suspected† hijacking of American Flight 77. Tragically, at 9:40 am American Flight 77 crashes into Pentagon. Next, United Flight 93 crashes in a field in Pennsylvania at 10:03 am after passengers rus h the hijackers. South towers collapsed at 9:59 am followed by the North tower at 10:28 am. The collapses were massive, with tons of smoke and dust, and watched by an audience of millions. However, the information that the media reported that day was not exactly the whole story. Proven by a statement made by firefighter Louie Cacchioli, who was assigned to Engine 47 in Harlem, reported to the media that, â€Å"We were the first ones in the second tower after the plane struck... On the last trip up a bomb went off. We think there was bombs set in the building. (People Magazine, para.12)† Many of the first reports and the most of the people being interviewed on that day were all saying the same thing, that there were many explosions heard that sounded like bombs. There is even footage of the planes hitting the towers, in slow motion, showing evidence of visible explosions that happen before the planes even make contact with the towers. So what exactly are the reasons for trying to cover-up this information? A

Dorothy Parker Quotes

Dorothy Parker Quotes Dorothy Parker was a writer and critic for such magazines as Vogue, Vanity Fair, and the New Yorker. She also wrote a number of screenplays, poetry, and short fiction. A founder of the Algonquin Round Table, she was known for her pointed verbal wit and satire, often focused on the life of middle class young women, newly liberated from Victorian restrictions. Selected Dorothy Parker Quotations Im never going to be famous. I dont do anything, not one single thing. I used to bite my nails, but I dont even do that anymore.I dont care what is written about me so long as it isnt true.Wit has truth in it; wisecracking is simply calisthenics with words.Oh, I said it, alright. You know how it is. A joke. When people expect you to say things, you say things. Isnt that the way it is?I know that there are things that never have been funny, and never will be. And I know that ridicule may be a shield, but it is not a weapon.You cant teach an old dogma new tricks.Women and elephants never forget.I might repeat to myself slowly and soothingly, a list of quotations beautiful from minds profound- if I can remember any of the damn things.I havent got a visual mind. I hear things.Men seldom make passes at girls who wear glasses.Four be the things Id have been better without:  Love, curiosity, freckles, and doubt.A girls best friend is her mutter.I require only three things of a man. He mus t be handsome, ruthless, and stupid. Take care of luxuries and the necessities will take care of themselves.Salary is no object; I want only enough to keep body and soul apart.Money cannot buy health, but Id settle for a diamond-studded wheelchair.As I was saying to the landlord only this morning: You cant have everything.The two most beautiful words in the English language are cheque enclosed.As far as I am concerned, the most beautiful word in the English language is cellar-door.If you want to know what God thinks of money, just look at the people he gave it to.The cure for boredom is curiosity. There is no cure for curiosity.Inertia rides and riddles me; /  The which is called Philosophy.The best way to keep children home is to make the home atmosphere pleasant- and let the air out of the tires.Now, look, baby, Union is spelled with 5 letters. It is not a four-letter word.It serves me right for keeping all my eggs in one bastard.All I need is room enough to lay a hat and a few friends. Heterosexuality is not normal, its just common.Scratch a lover, and find a foe.Scratch an actor and find an actress.Men dont like nobility in woman. Not any men. I suppose it is because the men like to have the copyrights on nobility- if there is going to be anything like that in a relationship.That woman speaks eighteen languages, and cant say no in any of them.People are more fun than anybody.I like to have a martini,Two at the very most.After three Im under the table,after four Im under my host.Did I enjoy the party? One more drink and Id have been under the host.Id rather have a bottle in front of me, than a frontal lobotomy.You can lead a horticulture, but you cant make her think.Ducking for apples- change one letter and its the story of my life.Brevity is the soul of lingerie.This is not a novel to be tossed aside lightly. It should be thrown with great force.She runs the gamut of emotions from A to B.The only -ism Hollywood believes in is plagiarism. If all the young ladies who attended the Yale prom were laid end to end, no one would be the least surprised.As only New Yorkers know, if you can get through the twilight, youll live through the night.He (Robert Benchley) and I had an office so tiny that an inch smaller and it would have been adultery.Misfortune, and recited misfortune especially, may be prolonged to that point where it ceases to excite pity and arouses only irritation.Constant use had not worn ragged the fabric of their friendship.Brendan Gill, in introducing  The Portable Dorothy Parker:  The span of her work is narrow, and what it embraces is often slight.To a man she found annoying:  With the crown of thorns I wear, why should I worry about a little prick like you?About being refused admittance to a casino in Monte Carlo in 1926 because she did not have stockings on:  So I went and found my stockings and then came back and lost my shirt.When being questioned by the FBI, 1952: Listen, I cant even get my do g to stay down. Do I look like someone who could overthrow the government? When asked whether she was Dorothy Parker:  Yes, do you mind?Summer makes me drowsy.Autumn makes me sing.Winters pretty lousy,But I hate Spring.Razors pain you; Rivers are damp;Acids stain you; And drugs cause cramp.Guns arent lawful; Nooses give;Gas smells awful; You might as well live.Oh, both my shoes are shiny new /  And pristine is my hatOh, life is a glorious cycle of song,A medley of extemporanea;And love is a thing that can never go wrong;And I am Marie of Romania.The pure and worthy Mrs. StoweIs one we all are proud to knowAs mother, wife, and authoress- Thank God, I am content with less!After the death of her husband a conversation with a neighbor:Neighbor:  Ã¢â‚¬Å"Is there anything I can do?†D.P.: â€Å"Yes, get me another husband.†Neighbor:  Ã¢â‚¬Å"Dottie, thats a terrible thing to say!†D.P. â€Å"All right, get me a ham and cheese on rye.†That would be a good thing for them to cut on my tombstone: Wherever she went, including here, it wa s against her better judgment.I like to think of my shining tombstone. It gives me, as you might say, something to live for. To Lillian Hellman, her executor, a few days before dying:  Lilly, promise me that my gravestone will carry only these words: If you can read this, youre too close. About These Quotes: Quote collection assembled by Jone Johnson Lewis. This is an informal collection assembled over many years. I regret that I am not be able to provide the original source if it is not listed with the quote.

Designing a network for a client Research Paper

Designing a network for a client - Research Paper Example The other challenge facing network security is hacking, which can be done from different sources. Most hacking is from the internet, where hackers target a particular network. A well-protected network should restrict access from outside since a computer from the outside cannot access a network infrastructure directly from outside. A proper design should cater for security measures to eliminate masquerading. A new design, for this reason, has to be introduced, which has additional features to enhance security (Wong & Yeung, 2009). Techniques such as NAT (Network Address Translation) should be used to deny access to the computers of a network from a remote computer. This makes it extremely hard to hack a network infrastructure from outside. The network infrastructure is at risk if one of its devices is compromised. Hacking from a device of the network infrastructure is much dangerous since passwords or authentication information about the network can be obtained with much ease. For instance, when a router is compromised, routing decisions can be influenced, and packet misrouting attacks can be launched easily from the compromised router. Hacking from a source close to the network infrastructure is extremely dangerous. Security measures such as installation of firewalls should be considered. Firewalls are installed to the boundary to protect the inside of a network (Wong & Yeung, 2009). A flat network design is much vulnerable to masquerading. In a flat network design, all the network infrastructure devices and end computers are connected together and do not have a clear boundary. This means when one computer is compromised, all the network infrastructure can be accessed by an attacker. When an end computer is attacked, all kinds of attacks can be launched on the network infrastructure the attacks include HSRP (Hot Standby Router Protocol), STP (Spanning Tree Protocol), and DHCP(Dynamic Host Configuration

Indirect Message Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Indirect Message - Essay Example This means that all the managers are currently busy attached to respective working program. It is with these reasons that we wish to inform you that we will not be in a position to participate in the restoration of the historical area of Miramar. By doing so, some of our operations will be paralyzed since we only have the minimal number of the upper-level managers as of now. Notably, restoration of the said historical area would require someone with upper-level management experience who can provide leadership and direct public relationship activities. Considering this, good reputation, and current and former operations of SCORE in relation to rehabilitation programs, they come highly recommended to take over the operation. We, therefore, confidently think that you can contact SCORE for more assistance. However, it is also important that you note that Kellstrom Industries cannot ignore the partnership and association that we have enjoyed in the past, and further, we still look forward for more collaboration in the

Mass media Essay Example for Free

Mass media Essay Since television has been one of the most influential tools of mass media, there is an increase in concern over children’s changing image of ideal body of women as experienced through mass media. The kind of women and the body that they should take is increasingly becoming unrealistic. Since children today spend a large chunk of their time watching television, the mass media images may alter the perception of children in terms of the realities of female body. This is especially important in the light of the fact that 86 percent of advertisements occurring between television shows use women as image model. The exposure of children to models as advertisers really affects their perception in terms of attractiveness, desirability, personal worth and success. This could make children link thinness as directly related to these positive characteristics (Burggraf and Fouts, 1999, p. 27). Another important issue in terms of the way the female body is emerging in mass media is the increased commodification of women. The plethora of economic developments and the rise of consumerism have made women devalued once more through making women as effective tools for advertising (Atwood, 1992, p. 23). Studies on the role of women in advertising have shown that many commodities in the period of increased commercialization have directly linked women to many commodities. The rise in commercial culture produced newer codes of consumer practices and has pushed the integration of sex into advertisement. â€Å"This means that even as the tea-drinking woman became an exemplar of restrained, properly domesticized femininity, the sugared tea she drank from fragile, luxurious, china cups retained a disturbing connection to a more transgressive version of her sexed body† (Sussman, 1998, p. 6). One of the major points expressed in various literatures involve feminist discourse that the female body is increasingly becoming exploited. Many of the products today are being advertised not in relation to their function but as a seductive come-on to entice consumers to buy the product because of the element of sex. The female body, thus, in the process becomes mere commodity. The main attraction for many advertisers is not to connect the value with the function of the product. The emphasis is increasingly connected with the female body and the air of sex that it emits. The female quest for thinness rest upon both Western ideals of individual control of the body and the economic abundance that provides most people with enough to eat. Cultures in fear of starvation have historically favored larger body mass. However one looks at it though, the women’s body continues to be a fascination of man which is utilized by media to promote its own ends. Over the long haul, that translates to a deterioration of values and women’s true role in society and thus deserves deeper thought and rightful action. As a solution to this, there is a need to consider that the female body not as primarily directed towards male. Despite the changes in the society today, which increased the accessibility of work that was previously occupied by men, females have increased their dependency on men (Trahair, 1989, p. 23). The production of material wealth is necessarily a masculine interest and the women in corporate world is a clear sign that women performing corporate jobs are just basically slave of the interests of men to produce more wealth and good for the society. This inclusion of women comes with a high price. The price is coming from the fact that while they are encouraged to pursue success in their careers and in their jobs, they are still unable to achieve the kind of success that men enjoy in society (Trahair, 1989, p. 23). In this regard, women feel that once again the kind of work that they are doing is undervalued. In the process, they become even more dependent on men in terms of boosting their self-esteem. This only creates a cycle of psychological struggle and suffering. Secondly, there is also a need to emphasize the fact that men still control the economic activity in both the private and public sphere. Indeed, the image of the female body in mass media has been increasingly distorted. On the one hand, the mass media’s ideal of the female body is increasingly becoming unattainable and distorted. This could create problems about women’s self-esteem, and the change in the real meaning of success and attractiveness. On the other hand, the mass media is creating a consumer culture and uses the female body to achieve the goals of sales. Either way it is quite unfortunate that in both ways, it is the female body, which would suffer. There is a need to shift the perspective away from the changing ideal of the female body. This will definitely be a difficult task for the society as the plethora of magazines and other forms of mass media is becoming more and more complex. It is important that the feminist groups start to get up from their long hibernation. A complex awareness program that would educate women about the value of the body and self-esteem will definitely be a good starting point. WORKS CITED 2006. Eating disorders. Retrieved March 26, 2007 at: https://www.anred.com/elder.html

how do you view religion? Essay -- essays research papers

How do you view yourself? How do others view you? Do you really care? The answers to all these questions are shaped by the culture you were raised in. for the most part, scientists agree that culture plays a very important role in how a person develops. A woman raised in India might grow up to be a traditional woman who marries young, works part time, and who devotes the majority of her life to her family. The same person, if raised in a more Western-thinking country, might attend college, pursue a career, and not get married until after she’s thirty. All cultures have certain things in common, but still have differences that make them very distinct. There are four main criteria anthropologists use when examining cultures. I hope to show these criteria, explain them in a way that is easy to make sense of, and also show how cultures can evolve.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Culture shows up in the social norms, customs, symbols, humor, expectations, beliefs and communications practices. Culture plays a large role in shaping a person’s personality. As humans we are born with little or no specific instincts. A person’s culture will shape those instincts and train the person on how to survive traditionally. One of the most astonishing things about vulture is the fact that it can be changed in one generation but then keep those changes intact through many hundreds of generation after that.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In the Merit Student’s Encyclopedia (page 375), culture is defined as â€Å"the patterns of behavior acquired by man though social learning.† Nearly all recent studies preformed to find out how culture affects people seem to infer that culture is a learned trait, rather than one passed down through genes (sometimes called â€Å"genetic memory†) as some anthropologists previously thought. What different types of cultures are there? There are regional cultures, religions cultures, and many others that are considered â€Å"sub-cultures†.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Culture can be broken into four main components. Orientation to time: whether focus is on the past, present, or future. Orientation to people: orientation to the environment: whether it’s here to serve us, or we’re here to serve it. Values and Philosophies: what’s most important in life, what your values are, whether religion is important or not.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Christianity is one o... ... decides their values.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In Islam, according to the Quran, any interaction between men and women who are not related or married is forbidden, although many families chose not to observe this law.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In this paper, I mostly used the Christian religion to explain the four criteria for examining cultures, and to explain cultural evolution because, for me, it was the easiest thing to relate those topics to. However, Christianity was just used as an example. The criteria of cultures apply to every part and culture in the world. By understanding how cultures are examined and classified, you increase understanding them, and with increased understanding comes increased acceptance, and maybe fewer problems that result from the current misunderstanding between people of different cultures. I showed you how cultures can change, sometimes over a long time, sometimes over a period of less then fifty years, and told you the four main criteria used for examining cultures, so the next time you hear something about people from one area or religion being stereotyped, you can hopefully get your own information and look for things for yourself.

Non Financial Factors

TABLE OF CONTENT INTRODUCTION1 TESCO’S RATIO ANALYSIS2 SUMMARY TESCO’S RATIO13 COMPARATIVE ANALYSE – Tesco’s Vs Marks and Spencer’s________________ _______14 CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF TESCO PLC__________________________________________ 21 CONCLUSION? BIBLIOGRAPHY? APPENDIX 1 –TESCO’S PLC APPENDIX 2- MARKS AND SPENCER’S- CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS I-Introduction This report will evaluate the financial performance of Tesco’s and comparing it to Marks and Spencer’s has the purpose of evaluating the company's worthiness as investment.As a well knowing company around the world and having an important background in the retail environment Tesco’s is one of the largest supermarkets in the world. Present in 14 countries around Europe, Asia and North America. Tesco’s is always dealing in the financial world, providing also bank and insurance services. ‘Tesco was founded in 1919 by Jack Cohen from a market stall i n London’s East End. Over the years our business has grown and we now operate in 14 countries around the world, employ over 500,000 people and serve tens of millions of customers every week.We have always been committed to providing the best shopping experience. Today we continue to focus on doing the right thing for our customers, colleagues and the communities we serve. ’ (Tesco 2012). The first section of this report, which is the main body, will use financial statements from 2010, 2011 and 2012, along with standard financial ratio analysis to develop a clear picture of Tesco’s financial performance comparing to the competitor. The second section includes a comparative analysis of the competitor strategy and also a conclusion on the performance and health of Tesco PLC based on the years 2010, 2011 and 2012.The third section, presents a critical analysis containing the non-financial factors and risks impacting on the future of Tesco PLC. II-Tesco’s rati o analysis: Ratio Analysis simplifies the financial statement and helps in future planning. It also helps us to inform the entire story of changes and current performance of the company. Ratios highlight all the different factors linked with successful and unsuccessful business. It is a powerful tool of financial analysis in the company. By using Ratio analysis it is easy to evaluate and understand financial health and trend of the business and possible future forecast of the company.Currency = ? (000) The return on capital employed is an important measure of a company's profitability. If ROCE is higher than the company is sound healthy. In 2010 Tesco had 11. 52% ROCE which increase steadily in 2011 and 2012 respectively 12. 93 and 12. 64. So there is a possible reason for this change is that profit increase. It determines management's ability to generate earnings from a company's total pool of capital. Company’s gross profit margin ratio shows that there is slightly differen ce between 2010 and 2012 which shows there was no any major change in their prices.In 2011 the company recorded a gross profit margin ratio of 8. 30%. The positive trend in this margin shows that the company is on profitability trend and therefore is a good investment option. So there is a possible reason for this change the higher cost of production. Operating Margin often refer to simply as a company's profit margin, there is no major change during the period from 2010 to 2012. Activity ratio: 1. Assets Turnover: Asset Turnover= Sales revenue/Capital employed During the last three years Tesco has improved gradually returning continuously in 2011 and 2012 turnover was respectively 2. 4 and 2. 06 . For most companies, their investment in net assets represents the largest component of their total assets. There are no significant changes in asset turnover. Liquidity ratio: Liquidity is a very important ratio for money lenders, suppliers and potential investors to access. According to the Tesco annual statement the result from 2010 to 2012 shows that the current ratio was less than 1 which has a problem to meet their liability in short term. Tesco’s assets are less and its liabilities are quite high which indicates company’s weak current ratio and liquidity problem.Quick ratio is a more conservative (safer) measure of liquidity. A higher quick ratio implies greater safety. According to the acid test ratio Tesco’s acid test ratio was not good because it is below the standard. The liabilities have increased because of increased loan 2010, 2011 and 2012 respectively. In the year 2010 Receivable days was 12. 10 days but after that in 2011 and 2012 fiscal year respectively it was increased to 13. 86 days and 15. 02 days, which is showing their position is not good to collect receivable earlier.It could affect business as well because customers always prefer a long time to pay back whatever they have taken on credit. 2012 = 3598/59278*365 = 22. 15 days It takes Tesco’s approximately 19 to 22 days taken to sell its product from the time it acquire it. Inventory days increased continuously since 2010 to 2012. The possible reasons could be the company’s sales are not good. Capital Gearing: The term â€Å"capital gearing† or â€Å"leverage† normally refers to the proportion of relationship between equity share capital including reserves and surpluses to preference share capital and other fixed interest bearing funds or loans.As the higher a company's degree of leverage as the more the company is considered risky. In, Tesco’s gearing scenario gearing was decreased in 2010 and 2011 separately from 0. 51 to 0. 43, and it was standstill 0. 43 in 2012, which indicates the company improving financially. So there are possible reasons for this change, long term is decreasing in comparison with capital employed. Return on assets: . The profitability ratio here measures the relationship between net profit and assets. Return on assets= Net profit before interest and tax / Total asset*100Return on asset (ROA) indicator of how profitable a company is relation to its total asset . ROA gives us an idea of Tesco how efficient management is sat using its asset to generate earning. In 2010 return on asset was 7. 51% after that there was a decrease till 2012 to 5. 54 %. Tesco PLC has recorded in decreasing sharply value of P/E with values of 14. 12, 12. 12, and 8. 74, being recorded for 2010, 2011, and 2012 respectively (Yahoo Finance 1st Nov 2010,2011,2012). A number of factors could be possible vary due to decreasing in P/E including increased competitiveness for capital in market. Yahoo Finance 2012) 2. Earnings per share: The Earning per Share (EPS) considers the profits that could be paid to each ordinary shareholder. The increase in profit resulted in the increase in EPS. Earnings per share: Earnings o holders / No of o shares in issue 2010 = 29. 33p 2011 = 34. 43p 2012 = 36. 75p The c ompany recorded EPS increased in 2010, 2011 and2012 respectively. There could be number of reason for increasing earnings per share. Possible reason could be the increase in profit, increasing in loan. But it would not be the long term sustainability. 3.Dividend: Dividend per share (DPS) is the sum of declared dividends for every ordinary share issued. DPS is the total dividends paid out over an entire year divided by the number of outstanding ordinary shares issued. Tesco financial statements indicate that dividend yield for the company has been rising in the last five years. The company recorded dividend yields of 3. 15%, 3. 56 %p and 4. 59% for 2010, 2011 and 2012 respectively (Yahoo Finance 1st Nov 2010, 2011, 2012). This is an indication that investor willing to invest in the company have a chance of receiving better dividend in the future. Yahoo Finance 2012) In 2011 company’s debt/equity ratio was higher to1. 04, which is not very good indication for the company. Becau se it heavily depends on loan is not a good policy for any business. But it was reduced the following years in 2011 and 2012 respectively 0. 77 and 0. 77. Debt to Equity: Debt to equity = Non-current interest bearing debt: Equity It is used to determine how easily a company can pay interest expenses on outstanding debt. In 2010 company’s interest coverage was 5. 99 times which increased in 2011 to 10. 47 times but in 2012 decreased slightly to 9. 5. The company’s profit has increased to pay their interest easily. Interpretation and ratio analysis conclusion: In the year 2012 Tesco‘s activity, profitability, liquidity ratio, financial gearing, and investment ratio was comparing with the previous year ratio. In the activity ratio net assets turn increased. Liquidity ratio was quite reasonable due to the economic condition and creditor days decreased which was not good for the company. Financial gearing was not satisfactory and finally, investment ratio increased ma rgin which indicates revenue.The organization managed to increase its return on capital and assets turn over remarkably. Tesco has slightly increased its receivable and payable credit payment period currently showing its financial position. On the other side, it can also be an opportunity for the customers to attract more customers as they always prefer to hold back as much as possible. There is no major difference in the net profit and gross profit margin that means Tesco did not bring any change in its prices and there was not any external pressure from government or competitors.Liquidity of Tesco shows not a major decline over the past 3 years even though it is below 1 which is quite risky condition because current ratio below 1 means liabilities are more and assets are very less. If there will be major decline in the business, the company will not be able to pay their short term liabilities. The Interim report shows that they are reducing the gearing but we Tesco improved its sh ares value by having an increase in the dividends per share and share price. Investors will be attracted by this but this will not stay for long. Yahoo Finance, 2012) III-Comparative Analyse – Tesco’s Vs Marks and Spencer’s We can use Ratio Analysis to do a comparative analysis and seeing our performance with respect to our competitors. For this I have taken Marks and Spencer Group PLC and compared it with Tesco PLC to see the Standing of my company with another company. This helps us to know our strengths and weaknesses in all the areas of the business. Summary of Comparative Results between M & S and Tesco (2010-2012) Revenue and Operating Profits:The revenues earned by the company and the level of operating profit does tell us the size , capacity and type of player the company is in market. The Tesco’s Operating profit s increase over the years but if we see the table below M & S, they reduced the operating cost, but the revenue increased constantly as well. Chart : Tesco & M and S Revenue Comparison The Comparison of Tesco and Marks & Spencer tells us that Tesco is a much bigger company and has a much higher turnover. But through its policies we see that the level of Operating profit of Tesco is higher because of its strong Optimization policies and procedures.Ratio’s comparison between M& S and Tesco: Tesco’s and M & S ratio analysis: Ratio Analysis helps us to inform the entire story of changes and current performance of the company. = 12. 93% 2012 = 3985/ (13731+17801) *100 = 12. 64 % The return on capital employed is an important measure of a company's profitability. If ROCE is higher than it the company is sound healthy. If we see the chart we can M is in stronger condition. 2011= 9740. 30/ (2677. 40+2456. 50) =2. 46 2012= 9934. 30/ (2778. 80+2489. 10) = 2. 49 = 0. 43 2012 = (1460. 10-681. 90) /2005. 40 0. 38 Earnings per share: Earnings o holders / No of o shares in issue 2010 = 29. 33p 2011 = 34. 43p 2012 = 36. 75p M & S 2010 = 33. 50 p 2011 = 38. 80 p 2012 = 32. 50 p The increase in earnings per which is attractive point for investors. Tesco Earning per share increased on 2012 while M Earning per share decreased. 2012 = 2489. 10/2778. 80 = 0. 89% Tesco debt/equity ratio was higher to 1. 04 %, which reduced the following years in 2011 and 2012 respectively 0. 77% and 0. 77%. While M & S was 1. 40 % on 2010 & it’s got bit better on following years.IV-Critical Analysis of the non- financial factors and risks for Tesco PLC In today's worldwide competitive environment organisations have to compete with others regarding a wide range of fields like product quality, delivery, reliability, after-sales services, brand, customer care and feedbacks†¦ (Chairman, FTSE 100 Company, 2003) The financial ratio analysis done above, is very useful as it summarises all the necessary information in order to understand the health of a company, covering profit, liquidity, growth and risk of a com pany.But it is also essential to look at the non financial factors that can have a huge impact on a company’s future potential. V-Conclusion Taking into consideration the ratio analysis applied to Tesco’s between 2010 and 2012 what can be noticed is that the company had some variation. According to level of risk, Tesco’s is less risky than M&S in terms of investment considering that in 2010, 2011 and 2012 had as gearing ratios: 1. 04 %, 0. 77% and 0. 77% respectively and M & S for the same period 1. 40 %, 0. 92% and 0. 89%. As much higher is the gearing ratio more vulnerable is the company to downturns.With an improvement of its shares value by having an increase in the dividends per share and share price, Investors will be attracted by this but this will not stay for long. Moreover considering how much cash flow is available for each pound invested, which is demonstrated by the dividend yield, Tesco’s in 2010 had a variation from 3. 15% to 4. 59% in 2012 which is positive for the business. On the other hand, Tesco’s reacted negatively into the full analysis of profitability, efficiency and effectiveness, liquidity and investor ratios.As an example, the investment per share had a decrease of 5. 38 from 2010 to 2012 and also receivable days had a considerable increase which is a negative impact. Despite of having lower prices than M&S with strong position in UK and also in other continents, Tesco’s might be a good investment in the future, depends on its performance and long-term investment for the follow years. However currently it is not an investment to be considered. Bibliography London Stock Exchange (2012). Tesco PLC ORD SP. London Stock Exchange (2012). Marks and Spencer Group PLC ORD 25P.Available at:http://www. londonstockexchange. com/exchange/prices/stocks/summary/fundamentals. html? fourWayKey=GB0031274896GBGBXSET1 Mark and Spencer (2010)-Annual Report and Financial Statements. Available at http://corporate. marksandspencer. com/documents/publications/2010/annual_report_2010 http://corporate. marksandspencer. com/documents/publications/2011/annual_report_2011 http://corporate. marksandspencer. com/documents/publications/2012/annual_report_2012 (Yahoo Finance, 2012) http://www. bizmove. com/finance/m3b3. htm APPENDIX 1 APPENDIX 2 APPENDIX 1 APPENDIX 2

Government Intervention in the Housing Market and Is It Ethical?

Government Intervention in the Housing Market and is it Ethical? Intermediate Microeconomics Two schools of thought encompass the intervention of government into the national economy. On the one hand there are those who believe that state intervention is not only beneficial but also essential for the creation of a stable economy. However, there too are those who contend that government intervention sub-optimises the economy and the free market should be left to its own devices. The current state of the domestic housing market helps to build a foundation for those who advocate for greater government intervention in the economy.Owning your own home is for many a life-long goal; government intervention has the ability to bring this dream to fruition for those in lower socioeconomic circumstances. A combination of taxation, subsidised mortgage rates and government incentive schemes are the most commonly used tools of intervention into the housing market that are available to intervention ist national governments. Opponents of this theory believe that letting the free market regulate the housing sector is the fairest and most effective means of reducing or eliminating government intervention all together.There are, however, ethical issues intertwined with government intervention within the housing market and these issues must be weighed up against the economic and social benefits. Without regulation many would find homeownership to be unaffordable and unattainable. Microeconomic theory states that lower rates of owner-occupied homeownership would affect the supply and demand for housing within the residential market. Therefore forcing the price of rentable property well above what many lower socioeconomic families are able to afford.This subsequently has a flow-on effect, rates of home ownership tend to be in lower in areas of low socioeconomic standing, where unemployment is high, income is low and consumer confidence is down. A desire to increase the rates of homeo wnership is the catalyst for government intervention in the market. For this reason governments seek to regulate the housing market as a means of making it an attractive and ultimately more affordable investment for the average family. Homeownership is central to a state’s economic growth and overall financial stability. Residential investment constitutes a large portion of national capital formation.Poterba writes; â€Å"In the United States, real estate itself accounts for more than 1/3 of all fixed capital stock and a similar fraction of real assets in other developed countries† (Poterba, 1989). Economic policy usually provides favorable income tax incentives to homeowners; government incentives, for example first time buyers tax credits and subsidised mortgages. These policies are usually the only reason prospective homeowners are able to enter the market. Economics teaches people to respond to incentives; therefore homeowner’s entrance into the owner-occupi ed sector creates economic responsibility by means of servicing a mortgage.This action forces homeowners into stable employment, relative income and creates consumer confidence all factors of microeconomic stimulation within the economy. Government intervention within the housing market is both ethical and unethical. Some would say that government intervention within any market is unethical. Ethically is it right for a government to intervene in the economy, as what was once used as a market mechanism can in turn become a market norm. Government intervention is see by many as the government initiating force and imposing on ones right to liberty. Morally and ethically that would be an injustice upon ones self.But with that in mind governments introduce economic policy because they have a moral obligation to help those who are less able. Morally the government has the duty to ensure that those who are disadvantaged are given equal opportunities to succeed. According to social contract theory and those who would subscribe to the Hobbesian state of nature; one ethical stream of thought would say that governments should not exist in the market place at all. If and only when it is essential then they are only in place to offer retaliation of force in order to preserve individuals rights. In turn preserving free markets.It is well documented that the United States regulation within the housing market is unethical. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac whom of which are both government backed and subsidised mortgage lenders, were seen as too big to fail. Until they did, the way government policy was constructed around these two giants of the housing market was so ethically and morally corrupt that it poisoned the entire economy. Economic policies put in place would allow almost anyone homeownership, policies that allow no deposit, no proof of employment and no proof of income are themselves morally corrupt.This type of regulation would construe to a gross ethical breach. Policy that allowed individuals to set themselves up for failure is obviously morally corrupted. The principal alternative to government intervention in the housing market is to end all government regulation and state-mandated economic policy from the market, effectively creating a truly free market. Common consensus on free markets are that inherently people will choose to better themselves without the need for government regulation and naturally people will choose to improve their situation.In an article published by the Brookings Institute, former chairman of the United States Federal Reserve, Alan Greenspan, hypothesized that this alternative to government intervention would result in â€Å"interest rates and mortgage rates would clearly be higher and the size housing market would be significantly smaller† (Greenspan, 2011). This limits the access to affordable housing, a lack of government intervention would essentially eradicate achievable ownership; house prices would soar ne gatively affecting demand while the size of the market would shrink simultaneously, severely limiting a markets housing supply for both purchase and rent.Hennessy explains under these economic conditions, â€Å"High mortgage interest rates and high down payment requirements might prove that the opportunity cost of owning is too high† (Hennessey, 2001). Therefore as previously mentioned unattainable homeowner ship would lead to a downturn in the economy, raising unemployment, decreasing the supply of rental property, decreasing the demand for property both for home owners and investors as well as leading to a downturn in consumer confidence all of which create a large negative effect on the economy and decrease economic growth.In conclusion the economic case for government intervention is strong. Governments are in place to help those less fortunate, this type of economic policy not only helps stimulate the economy in a multitude of ways but it also enables homeowners to enter the market, creating economic growth and long term financial stability. The argument, government intervention in the housing market is systemically flawed, due to sub-optimisation of the economy and erosion of free markets is incorrect.There is however a lesson to be learnt from what has happened with government intervention within the housing market, namely the global economic crisis. This was not entirely due to government regulation but in some ways the opposite, not enough regulation. Ethically there are strong views around government intervention and some do have merits. Namely market mechanisms used to guide economic policy, they can then become seen as market norms.When this happens you erode the moral value of what you are trying to accomplish in the first place. References Greenspan, A. (2011). Imagining a Housing Market Without Government Intervention. Retrieved 25-09-2012, 2012 Poterba, J. M. (1989). Residential Real Estate and Capital Formations. Regional Science and Ec onomics. Hennessey, S. M. (2001). The Impact of the Tenure Choice Decision on Future Household Wealth.

How to Effectively Use Dialect in Fiction Writing

How to Effectively Use Dialect in Fiction Writing Dialect can be a powerful tool to help writers bring the characters they have created to life. A writer might use dialect, along with accent, to distinguish a characters unique way of speaking- and in doing so, illustrate their place of origin, cultural background, or social class. It is critically important to use this device with sensitivity, as imprudent application can do more harm than good.In the past, writers often used dialect in a way that devolved into stereotypes and other offensive characterizations- something that is unacceptable to todays readers- and also frequently impacted readability. While writers still use dialect today to create believable, authentic characters, the rules surrounding its use have changed and writers should be careful to avoid missteps.Dialect vs. accentBefore we delve into the topic, its important to understand what dialect is, and how it differs from accent. Dialect, according to Merriam-Webster, is a regional variety of language distinguished b y features of vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation from other regional varieties and constituting together with them a single language. Accent, on the other hand, refers to an individuals distinctive or characteristic inflection, tone, or choice of words. Essentially, accent is the specific part of dialect that relates to how something is pronounced, so a characters accent is, therefore, part of his dialect.Is it necessary?As the use of dialect in your writing can be a double-edged sword, its important to first ask yourself if it is absolutely necessary for your characterization process. This website suggests that an easy way to determine whether you really need to use dialect is to answer the following questions:Is dialect integral to the story (for example, is it used to reinforce the main characters outsider status in a close-knit regional community)?Are there stereotypical expressions associated with the accent or dialect you should take care to contextualize, use sparingly or avoid?NowNovel.comA more considered approachOnce you have determined that dialect is truly necessary for your writing, you need to find a way to maintain your characters authenticity without crossing the line into caricature. This is especially a concern if the character you are creating is part of a culture other than your own.One way writers are circumventing this issue is the use of what is known as eye-dialect, which are nonstandard spellings of words that represent standard pronunciations. These words are pronounced phonetically the exact same way as the original word. In a dialect of people living in the Southern United States, some examples of eye-dialect might be: fur (for), tu (to), frum (from), deth (death), wuz (was), uv (of), and sez (says).When the reader sees the words, although they are slightly misspelled, they are easy to read because the misspellings are phonetically pronounced the same way the correct spelling is pronounced. Therefore, as the reader is reading th e words aloud in his or her mind, there is a natural connection and understanding that takes place. This stylistic choice the author made serves three functions:It makes it easier for the reader to read and understand.There is still characterization happening.As it is spoken and the misspelling is the authors choice (rather than the speakers), there is no insinuation regarding the class or education status of the speaker.In her thesis entitled Writing in Dialect in Fiction: A History and Study, childrens author Jennifer Sommer writes: The perpetual dilemma for the writer is to determine how far to go in accuracy in dialect without losing the reader.Throughout her thesis, Sommer traces the progression of the use of dialect throughout American literary history to the present day, where she admits there is much conflict for writers who seek to create authentic characters without crossing the lines of caricature through dialect. As an example of modern literature that gets it right, she mentions the book Somewhere in the Darkness by Walter Dean Myers, a book set in the Bronx with African American characters. She notes that the change in dialogue to reflect characterization is minimal, yet effective. Specifically, she discusses how the use of language in dialogue immediately causes the reader to begin reading the dialogue with understanding of the accent, especially through dropping certain words, using aint, and incorporating short, choppy sentences, without turning the characters into provincial curiosities:Day before yesterday, Maurice said. But check this out. Tony just nicked the dude and he was screaming and carrying on like he had stabbed him through the heart or something.No lie?Yeah, hey, look, you want to play some ball tonight?I dont know.You give up ball or something, man? Maurice looked at him sideways. We playing Richie and his crew.Ill see how Im feeling, Jimmy said.You aint going to play, Maurice said. You getting to be another jive dude, man.Somewh ere in the Darkness by Walter Dean MyersThis passage, in contrast to passages written in earlier, more controversial works like The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, show how dialect can be successfully used in fiction without going overboard, and thus creating caricatures or racially-charged stereotypes. Particularly, it can be accomplished through slang, eye-dialect, and dialogue that focuses more on syntax (the arrangement of words) than phonetic reinventions of words.When phonetic reinventions of words are used in the extreme, as exemplified in some early American literature, the result is a character that is portrayed as highly uneducated and of lower social status. This use of language can come across as offensive and stereotypical, thereby ruining an otherwise great story. In modern writing, the best way to avoid these problems is moderation and careful consideration of the connotations of a dialects use.Applying the new rulesA contemporary author who applies the new rules of d ialogue well is J.K. Rowling. Take, for instance, the dialogue of Hagrid, one of the most beloved characters of her Harry Potter series:I am what I am, an Im not ashamed. Never be ashamed, my ol dad used ter say, theres some wholl hold it against you, but theyre not worth botherin with. An he was right.Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire by J.K. RowlingHagrids dialect helps to build his character and distinguish him from other characters throughout the series. However, instead of being over-the-top and difficult to read, the dialogue that Rowling writes for Hagrid contains more eye-dialect and syntax variation than other characters. These small changes are enough to allow Hagrids voice to take on an authentic West Country English accent, as discussed in this article. Author J.K. Rowlings use of dialect for the character of Hagrid helps distinguish him from other characters.Author J.K. Rowlings use of dialect for the character of Hagrid helps distinguish him from other characters.Bes t practices for composing dialectAs a conclusion to Sommers thesis on dialect, the author offers several suggestions for maintaining authenticity of character dialect without veering into the realm of caricature or overt racism. Included in those suggestions, she posits that authors should:Avoid respellings that would mislead readers about the status of the speaker.Pepper a narrative with occasional uses of the dialect. For example, to illuminate a Cajun character, you might reference items specific to that culture such as jambalaya (a traditional Cajun dish), employ greetings and kinship terms that use non-standard English, such as, Hey Grand-pere (how a Cajun grandson might greet his grandfather), or incorporate Cajun French phrases like tu connais (you know), mais yeah (but yes), and cher/chere (dear) throughout the text.Let the reader know explicitly when the characters have changed language, such as Here the speaker turned to Jean Thompson, and changed his speech to English let ting the reader know exactly how educated or literate the character is when speaking in Standard English.Use well-known sentence structure (syntax) that exemplifies the dialect, such as in Cajun, Why should I be ashame of that, me?Writing in Dialect in Fiction: A History and Study, a thesis by Jennifer SommerFurther, Sommer agrees that the best person to write dialect is someone who grew up or lives within the particular area or subculture that uses it. In such, a writer such as Paul Lawrence Dunbar was (in a sense) justified in using African American dialect in his writing, while Mark Twain was not. This could potentially explain why Twains books have been banned in several places because the diction (word choice) and dialect used were considered offensive and unsuitable for a more informed, aware, modern audience.A final noteUltimately, dialect via uncommon syntax and alternate spelling of words can be a compelling way to differentiate characters and build characterization- as lon g as its use is limited, readability is maintained, and careful consideration is given to how it is applied.

University of Maine at Fort Kent Admissions Statistics

University of Maine at Fort Kent Admissions Statistics With an acceptance rate of 81%, the University of Maine at Fort Kent is an accessible school for students with decent grades in college preparatory classes. Students will need to submit an application (the Common Application is accepted), high school transcripts, and a writing sample. SAT and ACT scores are not required. For guidelines and instructions about applying, be sure to visit the schools website. Admissions Data (2016): University of Maine at Fort Kent Acceptance Rate: 81%The University of Maine at Fort Kent has largely open admissions, but students will need adequate college preparatory coursework as well as an essay and letter of recommendation.UMFK has test-optional-admissionsTest Scores 25th / 75th PercentileSAT Critical Reading: 390 / 510SAT Math: 400 / 475SAT Writing: - / -Compare SAT scores for Maine CollegesACT Composite: 16  / 22ACT English: 12 / 22ACT Math: 16  / 20Compare ACT scores for Maine Colleges University of Maine at Fort Kent Description: The University of Maine at Fort Kent is a  public liberal arts college  and one of the seven institutions that make up the University of Maine System. Students who hate winter need not apply Fort Kent sits on the northern edge of Maine along the Canadian border, and the town is home to the CanAm Crown Sled Dog race, an event in which participants can qualify for the Iditarod. Outdoor lovers will appreciate the fishing, skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, hunting, camping, and kayaking opportunities in the area. The colleges location has largely shaped the curriculum with its experiential approach to learning and its focus on environmental stewardship and rural communities. The town of Fort Kent is home to about 4,000 people, and French-speaking Canada is just a few blocks away. Student life at the college is active with clubs and organizations focused on music, gaming, religion, hobbies, and education. UMFK also has a small fraternity and sorority system. In athletics, the UMFK Bengals compete in United States Collegiate Athletic Association (USCAA). The school fields two mens and three womens intercollegiate sports. Enrollment (2016): Total Enrollment: 1,904 (all undergraduate)Gender Breakdown: 31% Male / 69% Female35% Full-time Costs (2016  - 17): Tuition and Fees: $7,575 (in-state), $11,205 (out-of-state)Books: $1,000 (why so much?)Room and Board: $7,910Other Expenses: $2,500Total Cost: $18,985  (in-state), $22,615 (out-of-state) University of Maine at Fort Kent Financial Aid (2015  - 16): Percentage of New Students Receiving Aid: 94%Percentage of New Students Receiving Types of AidGrants: 81%Loans: 66%Average Amount of AidGrants: $5,250Loans: $7,076 Academic Programs: Most Popular Majors:  Business, Elementary Education, Secondary Education, Nursing, Social Science Transfer, Graduation and Retention Rates: First Year Student Retention (full-time students): 75%Transfer Out Rate: 28%4-Year Graduation Rate: 29%6-Year Graduation Rate: 47% Intercollegiate Athletic Programs: Mens Sports:  Soccer, BasketballWomens Sports:  Volleyball, Basketball, Soccer Data Source: National Center for Educational Statistics If You Like the University of Maine Fort Kent, You May Also Like These Schools: Husson University: Profile  Thomas College: Profile  University of Maine - Orono: Profile | GPA-SAT-ACT GraphUniversity of New England: Profile | GPA-SAT-ACT GraphUniversity of New Hampshire: Profile | GPA-SAT-ACT GraphLyndon State College: Profile  University of Vermont: Profile | GPA-SAT-ACT GraphUniversity of New Haven: Profile | GPA-SAT-ACT GraphChamplain College: Profile  University of Maine - Augusta: Profile  University of Hartford: Profile | GPA-SAT-ACT Graph

Financial Information for Business Decisions Essay

Financial Information for Business Decisions - Essay Example The global economy has undergone a drastic change due to recession and economic slowdown in different parts of the world, so on the basis of volatile economic condition, the companies have also changed their strategies and business models to survive in the market, and retain their position among the other players. In order to identify the repercussions of turbulent economic environment, and effects industrial factors on Wal-Mart, an overall analysis of the operations of Wal-Mart over five years would be done. Further, the competitors of Wal-Mart would also be analysed to gauge the position of the company, globally, in terms of market share. The financial analysis of the company would also reveal the financial stability of the firm, which would assist in deriving a conclusion regarding the effect of financial information on the business decisions of Wal-Mart. Company Overview Wal-Mart Store, Inc. is a multinational company which was established in the year 1945 and is headquartered at Bentonville Arkansas, United States (Yahoo Finance, n.d.). It is a publicly listed company and its shares are traded in the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) with the ticker symbol â€Å"WMT†. The company’s stocks were first traded at NYSE on August 25, 1972 (Wal-Mart, 2012a). Wall-Mart is engaged in retail or supermarket business in various formats around the world. Wal-Mart operates restaurants, retail stores, supermarkets, discount stores, hypermarkets, supercenters, apparel stores, warehouse clubs, etc. The products offered in the stores of Wal-Mart include frozen foods, meat, dairy products, bakery products, baby products, beverages, grocery items, electronic goods, household items and so on. Presently the business operations of Wal-Mart are divided into three broad segments, namely: a) the Wal-Mart International segment, b) the Wal-Mart US segment, and c) the Sam's Club segment. Retail stores of various formats are run by Wal-Mart in all the 50 states of US. Along with this it also operates its retail operations online through walmart.com. The international segment of Wal-Mart has its presence in 26 countries of the world and is also in the business of operating its retail operations in all those countries outside US. The Sam's Club segment of Wal-Mart includes membership based warehouse clubs that are operated in 47 states of US along with Puerto Rico (Wal-Mart, 2012b). The US business segment of Wal-Mart operates its business activities which are divided into six strategic merchandise units. They are: a) Grocery, b) Entertainment, c) Hardlines, d) Health and wellness, e) Apparel, and f) Home. All these six merchandise units offer different categories of merchandise products through its various types of retail stores located in different parts of US. In the recently published Fortune-500 list Wal-Mart has been ranked second, just after Exxon Mobil. Business Model Analysis of Wal-Mart After getting an overview regarding the operations of Wal- Mart, its business model would be studied in a comprehensive manner in this section. The current business model would be scrutinized and the changes that have taken place in the last five