Financial Analysis †Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank and National Bank of Abu Dhabi

Financial Analysis – Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank and National Bank of Abu Dhabi Introduction Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB) and National Bank of Abu Dhabi (NBAD) are two leading banking institutions based in the capital city of United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Financial Analysis – Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank and National Bank of Abu Dhabi specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More This report comprises of a financial analysis of both banks while taking into consideration financial information in the past three financial years, i.e. 2009, 2010 and 2011. The financial analysis presented in this report includes, profitability ratios, liquidity ratios, leverage ratio and solvency ratios of the two banks. Overview of the Banks Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank was founded back in the year 1997 with the mission of conducting its operations in accordance with the Islamic principles as laid down under â€Å"Shariah Law† (Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank, 2011; Bloomberg, 2013). Nationa l Bank of Abu Dhabi was founded in the year 1968, and since then it has earned a great reputation not only in the region, but also in other parts of the world. Today, National Bank of Abu Dhabi is regarded as the largest financial institution in Abu Dhabi as far as its lending operations are concerned (National Bank of Abu Dhabi, 2011; Bloomberg, 2013). Financial Analysis Following is a comprehensive analysis of the financial position and performance of the companies selected in this report: Profitability Ratios Profitability ratios are determined in order to evaluate profitability of a business concern. Profitability ratios generally include, gross margin, operating margin, return on equity, return on investments, return on capital employed, etc. (Helfert, 2001; Siddiqui, 2006).Advertising Looking for research paper on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Following profitability ratios have been dete rmined for the banks selected for analysis in this report: Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank National Bank of Abu Dhabi 2009 2010 2011 2009 2010 2011 Return on Equity 1.51 % 12.62 % 13.48 % 14.77 % 15.27 % 14.05 % Return on Investment 0.12 % 1.36 % 1.55 % 1.53 % 1.74 % 1.45 % Net Profit Margin 7.26 % 43.68 % 44.31 % 60.72 % 61.16 % 56.96 % Source: (Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank, 2011; Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank, 2010; National Bank of Abu Dhabi, 2011; National Bank of Abu Dhabi, 2010; Bloomberg, 2013). The return on equity has increased significantly from 2009 to 2010 for Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank. The reason behind this substantial increase is the improvement in the bank’s earnings in 2010 and onwards. Moreover, since there is comparatively lower increase noted in total equity of the bank, and therefore, resulted in higher return on equity in 2010 and 2011. Similarly, for National Bank of Abu Dhabi the ratio has shown improvement from 2009 to 2010, but declined in 2011. The reason be hind these fluctuating trends noted in return on equity for National Bank of Abu Dhabi is fluctuations in net income during the past three years. Similar to the trends noted in return on equity for the two banks in the past three years the return on investment for the two banks showed similar trends. Also, net profit margin also followed similar patterns for both banks. Due to significant increase in revenues of Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank, the net income increased considerably, the impact of which has been ultimately depicted in the net profit margin during 2010 and 2011.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Financial Analysis – Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank and National Bank of Abu Dhabi specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Liquidity Ratios The liquidity ratios determine the ability of a company to meet its short term borrowing obligations through its internal current sources. Liquidity ratios generally include current ratio, quick ratio, cash ratio and net working capital ratio (Helfert, 2001; Siddiqui, 2006). Following are the current and cash ratios determined for Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank and National Bank of Abu Dhabi for the past three financial years, i.e. 2009, 2010 and 2011. Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank National Bank of Abu Dhabi 2009 2010 2011 2009 2010 2011 Current Ratio 0.25 0.30 0.33 0.28 0.32 0.33 Cash Ratio 0.17 0.21 0.23 0.13 0.09 0.11 Source: (Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank, 2011; Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank, 2010; National Bank of Abu Dhabi, 2011; National Bank of Abu Dhabi, 2010; Bloomberg, 2013) As can be observed in the table above, there is no major difference noted in the current ratios of the two banks over the period of past three years. The current ratios of both banks have improved from 2009 onwards due to significant improvements noted in the current assets of both banks and a comparatively lower increase in the current liabilities, particularly short term borrowings by the ba nks. On the other hand, cash ratio for Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank has shown a similar trend in the past three years, whereas for National Bank of Abu Dhabi, the ratio has been observed as fluctuating during the past three years. In 2010, the cash ratio of the bank reached at its lowest point in the past three years, due to fall in cash and cash equivalent reserves.Advertising Looking for research paper on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Leverage Ratio The leverage ratio, such as debt to equity ratio, determines the extent to which a business entity’s operations and activities are reliant on debt financing as compared to equity financing. In other words, it also shows the extent of debt over equity in a business’ balance sheet (Helfert, 2001; Siddiqui, 2006). The gearing ratios for the two selected banks in this report are determined as follows for financial periods 2009, 2010 and 2011: Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank National Bank of Abu Dhabi 2009 2010 2011 2009 2010 2011 Gearing Ratio 1.44 0.58 0.79 0.58 0.94 0.74 Source: (Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank, 2011; Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank, 2010; National Bank of Abu Dhabi, 2011; National Bank of Abu Dhabi, 2010; Bloomberg, 2013) The gearing position of Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank has shown consistent fluctuations over the past three financial years. As for instance, in 2009, the gearing level of the bank is seen at its highest level due to increased preference for debt financing of banks operations rather than opting for equity financing. This situation changed significantly in 2010 due to a comparatively higher increase in equity of the bank as compared to increase in debt. However, the situation changed once again in 2011 due to significantly higher increase in debts of the bank in contrast to the increase in equity. On the other hand, gearing situation for National Bank of Abu Dhabi is completely opposite. The gearing level of National Bank of Abu Dhabi increased from 2009 to 2010 and then declined in 2011; the reason being about a 100 percent increase in debts of the bank and a low increase in equity level. In 2011, total debts slightly declined due to which gearing ratio also came down in comparison with the previous year. Solvency Ratios Solvency ratios determine the ability of a business enterprise to survive in future (Helfert, 2001; Siddiqui, 2006). Following are the solvency ratios determined for two banks for the past three financi al years: Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank National Bank of Abu Dhabi 2009 2010 2011 2009 2010 2011 Debt to Assets Ratio 0.92 0.89 0.88 0.90 0.89 0.90 Cash Flow to Debt Ratio 0.40 0.76 0.42 17.72 7.21 8.38 Source: (Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank, 2011; Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank, 2010; National Bank of Abu Dhabi, 2011; National Bank of Abu Dhabi, 2010; Bloomberg, 2013) The debt to assets ratio for Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank can be observed as declining during the past three years, but with small differences. The primary reason behind this decline is that the bank’s assets have increased, not in proportion to the increase in debt, which shows that there is less increase in assets due to debt. Similarly, for National Bank of Abu Dhabi, the ratio declined from 2009 to 2010, but improved in 2011. The reason for the decline is same as has been noted in case of Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank. On the other hand, cash flow to debt ratio for Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank increased in 2010, but came to the same level in 2011 as it was in 2009. The primary factor, which has resulted in fluctuation in this ratio, has been operating cash flows of the bank. On the other hand, cash flow to debt ratio for National Bank of Abu Dhabi has been noted as significantly lower than that of Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank. Moreover, the ratio has declined from 2009 to 2010, but slightly improved in 2011. The sharp decline in 2010 is due to significant increase in total debts of the bank. Conclusion From the financial ratio analysis of Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank and National Bank of Abu Dhabi’s financial statements for the financial years 2009, 2010 and 2011, it has been observed that there are varying trends and patterns in the past three years for both banks as far as their financial performance is concerned. The profitability ratios for the two banks have revealed that Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank has performed much better, as indicated by significant improvement in net income, as compared to National Bank of Abu Dhabi. On the other hand, the liquidity positions of the two banks have remained more or less similar in the three years period under consideration. As far as leverage positions of the two banks are concerned, it is concluded from the analysis that both have shown volatility in this respect. As has been noted, there is no particular pattern is followed in maintaining a certain gearing level by both banks. Moreover, the overall gearing level for both banks remained at high levels from 2009 to 2011, due to high levels of debt financing. Lastly, the review of solvency position of both banks concluded that the debt to assets ratio for both banks remained at the same level in the past three financial years, primarily due to the fact that the increase in debt and increase in assets for both banks remained proportionately similar. However, significant differences have been noted in cash flow to debt ratios as there have been significant differences in the operating cash flows of the two ba nks. Reference List Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank. (2010). Annual Report 2010. Abu Dhabi: Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank. Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank. (2011). Annual Report 2011. Abu Dhabi: Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank. Bloomberg. (2013). Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB:Abu Dhabi). Bloomberg. Web. Bloomberg. (2013). National Bank Of Abu Dhabi (NBAD:Abu Dhabi). Bloomberg. Web. Helfert, E. A. (2001). Financial Analysis Tools and Techniques: A Guide for Managers. New York: McGraw-Hill. National Bank of Abu Dhabi. (2010). Annual Report 2010. Abu Dhabi: National Bank of Abu Dhabi. National Bank of Abu Dhabi. (2011). Annual Report 2011. Abu Dhabi: National Bank of Abu Dhabi. Siddiqui, S. A. (2006). Managerial Economics And Financial Analysis. New Delhi: New Age International Publishers.

Quotes for Remembrance Day

Quotes for Remembrance Day In 1915, Punch magazine published a John McCrae poem titled, In Flanders Fields. McCrae, a Canadian soldier, had served in the Second Battle of Ypres in Flanders, Belgium. He wrote, In Flanders Fields after a friend died in battle and was buried with a simple wooden cross as a marker. The poem described similar mass graveyards on the fields of Flanders, fields that were alive with red poppies but now filled with the corpses of dead soldiers. The poem highlights the irony of war, where a soldier dies so that a nation of people lives. John McCraes poem made poppies a symbol of the First World War, representing bloodshed. As a mark of respect, people lay wreaths of poppies on the graves of those who died at war. Many people wear red poppies on their lapels as a sign of remembrance. People also observe a moment of silence at 11:00 a.m. on November 11, Remembrance Day. Most places hold a special Remembrance Day service, where hymns and national anthems are played in honor of war heroes. Here are some quotes to share in honor of our past fallen  soldiers and to take a moment to remember them. Jose Narosky In war, there are no unwounded soldiers.Aaron KilbournThe dead soldiers silence sings our national anthem.Richard HoveyOur cheer goes back to them, the valiant dead!Laurels and roses on their graves to-day,Lilies and laurels over them we lay,And violets oer each unforgotten head.Joseph DrakeAnd they who for their country die shall fill an honored grave, for glory lights the soldiers tomb, and beauty weeps the brave.Benjamin DisraeliThe legacy of heroes is the memory of a great name and the inheritance of a great example.William HavardThe greatest glory of a free-born people is to transmit that freedom to their children.Joseph CampbellA hero is someone who has given his or her life to something bigger than oneself.Douglas MacArthurIn my dreams, I hear again the crash of guns, the rattle of musketry, the strange, mournful mutter of the battlefield.Publilius SyrusValor grows by daring, fear by holding back.Billy GrahamCourage is contagious. When a brave man takes a stand, the spines of others are often stiffened. MuhammadFour things support the world: the learning of the wise, the justice of the great, the prayers of the good, and the valor of the brave.Elizabeth Barrett BrowningAnd each man stands with his face in the light of his own drawn sword. Ready to do what a hero can.Carol Lynn PearsonHeroes take journeys, confront dragons, and discover the treasure of their true selves.Michel de MontaigneValor is stability, not of legs and arms, but of courage and the soul.Napoleon BonaparteValor is a gift. Those having it never know for sure whether they have it till the test comes. And those having it in one test never know for sure if they will have it when the next test comes.William PennFor death is no more than a turning of us over from time to eternity.Lucy LarcomLife hangs as nothing in the scale against dear Liberty!George F. KennanHeroism...is endurance for one moment more.Rudyard Kipling, The Old IssueAll we have of freedom, all we use or know- This our fathers bought for us long and lon g ago.Albert EinsteinWe must be prepared to make heroic sacrifices for the cause of peace that we make ungrudgingly for the cause of war. There is no task that is more important or closer to my heart.Louis PasteurIt is surmounting difficulties that makes heroes.John H. JewettOur battle-fields, safe in the keepingOf Natures kind, fostering care,Are blooming,- our heroes are sleeping,- And peace broods perennial there.Omar BradleyBravery is the capacity to perform properly even when scared half to death.Randy VaderThe story of America’s quest for freedom is inscribed on her history in the blood of her patriots.Benjamin DisraeliNurture your minds with great thoughts, to believe in the heroic makes heroes.Henry Ward BeecherThey hover as a cloud of witnesses above this Nation.Schuyler ColfaxThese martyrs of patriotism gave their lives for an idea.William Makepeace ThackerayBravery never goes out of fashion.G. K. ChestertonBrave men are all vertebrates; they have their softness on the surface and their toughness in the middle. Rose Kennedy It has been said, time heals all wounds. I do not agree. The wounds remain. In time, the mind, protecting its sanity, covers them with scar tissue and the pain lessens. But it is never gone. William Shakespeare Praising what is lost makes the remembrance dear. Alexander Henry On what rests the hope of the republic? One country, one language, one flag! Cynthia Ozick We often take for granted the very things that most deserve our gratitude. Arthur Koestler The most persistent sound which reverberates through mens history is the beating of war drums. Michael N. Castle These fallen heroes represent the character of a nation who has a long history of patriotism and honor- and a nation who has fought many battles to keep our country free from threats of terror. Philip James Bailey Man is a military animal, glories in gunpowder, and loves parade. Maya Angelou How important it is for us to recognize and celebrate our heroes and she-roes! Oliver Wendell Holmes Lord, bid wars trumpet cease; Fold the whole earth in peace. George William Curtis A mans country is not a certain area of land, of mountains, rivers, and woods, but it is a principle and patriotism is loyalty to that principle. Mark Twain In the beginning of a change, the patriot is a scarce man, and brave, and hated and scorned. When his cause succeeds, the timid join him, for then it costs nothing to be a patriot. Thomas Dunn English But the freedom that they fought for, and the country grand they wrought for, Is their monument to-day, and for aye. Jeannette Rankin You can no more win a war than you can win an earthquake. Czeslaw Milosz, The Issa Valley The living owe it to those who no longer can speak to tell their story for them. Sara Zarr When the remembering was done, the forgetting could begin. Thomas Campbell To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die. Robert Reich True patriotism isnt cheap. Its about taking on a fair share of the burden of keeping America going. Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit The more we sweat in peace the less we bleed in war. Gary Hart I think there is one higher office than president and I would call that patriot. Eve Merriam I dream of giving birth to a child who will ask, Mother, what was war? Terry Pratchett, Going Postal Do you not know that a man is not dead while his name is still spoken? G.K. Chesterton Courage is almost a contradiction in terms. It means a strong desire to live taking the form of readiness to die.

My experience viewing in 1869 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

My experience viewing in 1869 - Essay Example I am finally on the grounds of the globe amphitheater. As expected, the grounds are crowded with playgoers. There is an array of activities with merchants selling refreshments to the playgoers. Just by looking at the dress code of the playgoers I can almost tell that this play has attracted more groundlings than the previous one. I make my way to the stall selling hazelnuts and oranges, and I purchase some for my refreshment during the act. At the entrance, to the globe is a box where all playgoers deposit their entrance fee (Wilson &Alvin 17). I join the growing queue and after a few minutes am at the entrance. Upon placing my entrance fee in the box, I find my way to the theatre pit from where I will catch the play. On arrival at the pit, I discovered that I am amongst the first of to arrive in this section. I am fortunate to find sitting place on the standing grounds. Fellow commoners soon join us at the theatre pit. The nobles, who pay an excess of four pennies, take their well-c ushioned seats in the three-level galleries surrounding the central yard. This comical play has attracted large numbers of spectators. The audience comprises members of different social classes; the lower class by the groundlings at the theatre pit, and the upper class by the nobles in the Lord’s rooms. The Lord’s rooms are behind the stage sheltered from the elements used in the play. I see the nobility class adorned in apparels that define their upper social class. Some of them mask their faces to hide their identity.... The amphitheatre has limited artificial lighting that is why most performances occur during the afternoons (Wilson &Alvin 16). I am finally at the grounds of the globe amphitheatre. As expected, the grounds are crowded with playgoers. There is an array of activities with merchants selling refreshments to the playgoers. Just by looking at the dress code of the playgoers I can almost tell that this play has attracted more groundlings than the previous one. I make my way to the stall selling hazelnuts and oranges, and I purchase some for my refreshment during the act. At the entrance, to the globe is a box where all playgoers deposit their entrance fee (Wilson &Alvin 17). I join the growing queue and after a few minutes am at the entrance. Upon placing my entrance fee in the box, I find my way to the theatre pit from where i will catch the play. On arrival at the pit, I discovered that I am amongst the first of to arrive in this section. I am fortunate to find sitting place on the stand ing grounds. Fellow commoners soon join us at the theatre pit (Wilson &Alvin 19). The nobles, who pay an excess of four pennies, take their well cushioned seats in the three level galleries surrounding the central yard. This comical play has attracted large numbers of spectators. The audience comprises members of different social classes; the lower class by the groundlings at the theatre pit, and the upper class by the nobles in the Lord’s rooms. The Lord’s rooms are behind the stage sheltered from the elements used in the play. I see the nobility class adorned in apparels that define their upper social class. Some of them mask their faces to hide their identity (Wilson &Alvin 19). Royalty is also represented in this

Tang Dynasty Culture Art Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Tang Dynasty Culture Art - Essay Example The animals that were frequently found in Tang ceramics were created using so many molds and then by putting the pieces together and strengthening those areas with clay plugs on the inside to try to reduce strain on the joints. During this period, it was featured with enghlitement in trade and peace with other foreign nations. Evidence of these foreigners is seen in the figures on tombs during this time. Several nationalities were noted in the pottery. Importation of horses also marked this period, and this period was famously known for its horses that were displayed in its funerary artwork (Ebrey, pg. 127)The most common form of pottery that was famous during this time was the globular jars and offering trays that had horizontal rims. Because of the vast nature of china as a country, the ceramics were varying from one region to the other during this period. In the northern central region, the stoneware is seen to be fine, and the common practice was covering it with a thin whitish s lip. In the east and southeast region, the pottery is stouter with short straight spout that is set on the shoulder.During this period, there is also curious interest in the transmutation glaze in which the high-fired stoneware is seen to change its colors to kilns. This is seen especially when the blue or gray place flecks are applied to a dark or brown background that resembles tea-dusk. The dynasty of tang was crucial in the ceramics development and the contribution of clay bodies, glaze techniques and firing methods.

The Historical Cost Convention Essay Example for Free

The Historical Cost Convention Essay The historical cost convention used in historical cost accounting, records transaction at the monetary value at the date of transaction (i.e. their historical cost). An asset or liability being measured using the historical cost basis is recognized initially at transaction cost. This convention is used as a basis to prepare financial statements. In the income statement, revenues and expenses are recorded at the monetary value shown on the invoice. Historical cost accounting (HCA) might be the most suitable convention for stewardship purposes but may not be the most suitable for decision usefulness. This view has been apparent in the UK, with attempts to introduce supplementary accounts based on the current purchasing power (CPP) convention and the current cost convention (CCA). Neither of these alternatives was adopted after their initial trial. The HCA depends on depreciation policy and inventory valuation therefore it is subjective. Such a characterization tends to assume, however, that all historical cost measures are transaction-based and involve little estimation, which is not the case. For example, adjustments made to the historical cost carrying value of trade receivables to make allowance for bad and doubtful debts involve a degree of estimation that is not dissimilar to that involved in estimating current values not derived from an active market. And the results are often of broadly similar reliability. There is a similar level of estimation involved in determining the cost of self-generated assets and by-products, and generally in all circumstances involving allocations of substantial amounts of indirect costs.

Secularization Essay -- Essays Papers Religion Society Worldly

Secularization The word secularization is derived from the Latin word saeculum(world) it was first used to refer the transfer of property from the church to the civil princes. Now it denotes the process by which religion loses some or all of its power, dominance and authority. Secularization as a concept refers to the actual historical process whereby this dualist system â€Å" this world'; and the sacramental structures of mediation between this world and the other world progressively breakdown until the entire medieval systems of classification disappear, to be replaced by new systems of spatial structuration of the spheres. The structured division of 'this world'; into two separate spheres, 'the religious'; and 'the secular'; has to be distinguished and kept separate. From now on, there will be only one single 'this world';, the secular one, within which religion will have to find its own place. If before, it was the religious realm which appeared to be the all-encompassing reality within which the secular realm found its proper place, now the secular sphere will be the all-encompassing within which religious sphere will have to adapt. There are several conceptions of secularization. 1. Decline of religion 2. Differentiation of institution, practices and activities from religion 3. Transposition of norms from religion to the world 4. Desacralization of the world 5. Conformity of religion to the world There are also causes of secularization 1. Industrializa...

Artifacts Used in Aztec History

Artifacts Used in Aztec Households in Mexican History Kelly Ferguson Anthropology 201 Name: Obsidian Blade Catalog #: 30 / 922 A Museum: American Museum of Natural History During Aztec history, obsidian was used in various ways, such as cutting cloth, hide, and wood. The Aztecs also made efficient weapons and cutting tools, because obsidian flakes into sharp glassy edges when reworked. When used as knives, obsidian was usually embedded in a wood handle to protect the wielder.These knives were used in auto-sacrifice, or â€Å"blood letting†, a ritual where a person would cut themselves and drip blood to honor ancestors or gods. Obsidian is one of the sharpest natural minerals in the world, and is even sharper when reworked into an edge. Obsidian was an important part of life in Mesoamerican history – in many ways, it helped build the economy there. It was a vital part of the trade and distribution of goods in Latin America. Variations of this reworked stone have been fou nd in almost every Aztec archeological site and ruin, usually reshaped into a tool or figurine.Eventually, carvers began to make a new variety of obsidian objects – jewelry, figurines, ear-spools, pokers, etc. This artifact, among others, was donated by M. H. Saville to the museum in 1896. Name: Stamp Catalog #: 30. 2/ 8763 Museum: American Museum of Natural History This artifact, a Mesoamerican clay stamp, is from the Post-Classic Aztec period, sometime between 1000-1521 CE. It was constructed from clay and reworked to create a design of waves and lines. This stamp specifically was donated by an anonymous donor as a gift to the museum in 1947.These clay stamps were molded and then baked to harden – afterwards, they were distributed across Mexican households of different social-economic status. For much of history, stamps have been used as a way of identifying a family or social group, along with a business or governmental body. In the Aztec world, stamps were used to apply color and ink to paper, cloth, pottery, and the human form, as well. Inks were made of local herbs, ranging in color and texture.In many cases, the stamp may show images of religion, local sights, god-figures, nature, or family, among others. This artifact in question consists of a multitude of lines and squiggles, resembling water or air, along with other parts of nature. Name: Pipe Catalog #: 30. 0/ 1812 Museum: American Museum of Natural History This piece is from the Post-Classic Aztec period, constructed between 1000 and 1521 CE. It is made of clay and has been polished to create an artistic sheen. The pipe (among others) was donated by Dr.Herbert Spinden after his expedition to Latin and Central America during his time working for the Museum of Natural History. During Aztec history, pipes were used for the ritual consumption of tobacco and herbs during household and community ceremonies. Much of the time, tobacco was either chewed or smoked, but smoke was also used to ki ll insects during harvest, or as a mild antiseptic. Tobacco use has been a key ingredient in the history of shamanism in Latin America, as well – along with the social life of everyday Aztec men and women.

An Overview of Four Government Agency Websites Essay

The FNS website is dedicated to providing information regarding the distribution and availability of food throughout the United States. In relation to this, the site also contains data on nutrition, and well it is maintained across different regions and population groups. Statistical information on child nutrition, food distribution, as well as food security are all made accessible to the public; furthermore, statistical data on FNS programs, such as those on school meals and disaster relief, are available as well (FNS, 2010). In addition to such, other parts of the website also provide useful information. For example, accomplished studies and articles on issues in food and nutrition are also maintained in the reference section of the site. Similar to the website of other government agencies, the FNS website also contains instruction of how to apply for grants as well as jobs within the agency. Without doubt, for gaining insights on topics related to food and nutrition, and in the pursuit of remaining updated regarding the trends regarding such matters, the FNS website is a suitable option. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) At present, environmental issues are evidently among the most discussed topics throughout the world. The EPA website provides its visitors information regarding various aspects of the environment particularly in the context of the United States. In this sense, not only does the site present statistical information on air quality according to region, but similar data regarding harmful emissions are also provided; interestingly, statistics on toxic releases are also made accessible to the general public (EPA, 2010). Also, aside from having news features about the environment, which of course encompasses the recent oil spill incident, supplementary information on how to maintain a responsible lifestyle for preserving and enhancing the natural environment are also featured in the site. In relation to such, it is apparent that the EPA website designed in a manner that even younger audiences may benefit from its features. Nonetheless, despite being approachable by a wide range of audiences, it is undeniable that experts and researchers would benefit from the abundance of updated statistical information which may be found on the EPA website. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) The FAA, as its name implies, is mainly concerns with safety in the field of aviation. In this sense though, the issues covered by the FAA ranges from aircraft safety to pilot competency. FAA’s website offers a myriad of information readily accessible by any visitor. For one, it provides means to locate FAA offices and headquarters throughout various locations in the United States; in addition, a range of general as well as in-depth discussions pertaining to aircraft safety, traffic, policies, and even training are all available (FAA, 2010). Of course, given such a broad range of topics being assessed by the FAA, it is logical to assume that the types of statistical information correspond to such. In particular, statistical information on accidents, traffic, and consumer related aspects such as sales could be accessed through the FAA website; interestingly, statistical information on delays as well as pilot test results have been made available as well (FAA, 2010). Thus, it may be said, that the amount of statistical information on the FAA website, presents it as among the government agencies with the most abundant and detailed statistical information available. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) Economics, in order to be understood at a functional level, of course entails the use and analysis of statistical information. Hence, the BEA provides concerned individuals with access to updated statistical information of the United States economy. Specifically, not only does the BEA website contain data regarding the local economy and the specific facets of the economy but it also provides information regarding international accounts as well; among some of the easily identifiable examples of statistical information shown on the BEA website are as follows: real GDP, personal income, international trade, and international transactions (BEA, 2010). Of course, aside from such, the website still contains less technical information such as news updates. For one, the oil spill incident as well as its implications for the United States economy is presented as one of the news highlights (BEA, 2010). Other related links containing business surveys, customer guides, research applications, and job openings are also available. Indeed, the BEA website contains a myriad of useful information, ranging from practical to the most technical, maintaining the economic awareness of the population. References Bureau of Economic Analysis. (2010). BEA Home Page. Retrieved from http://www. bea. gov/. Environmental Protection Agency. (2010). Learn the Issues. Retrieved from http://www. epa. gov/epahome/learn. htm. Federal Aviation Administration. (2010). FAA Home Page. Retrieved from http://www. faa. gov/. Food and Nutrition Service. (2010). Data and Statistics. Retrieved from http://www. fns. usda. gov/fns/data. htm.

Tips on How to Write a Terrific Literature Review

Tips on How to Write a Terrific Literature Review How to Write a Literature Review When writing a literature review, you are supposed to provide a critical evaluation of the most important sources that were published on your topic of interest. Actually, a literature review can serve different purposes depending on what audience will read it or listen to it. For example, if the audience knows less than you do on the topic, the purpose of the review will be informative. On the contrary, if the audience comprises renowned professors and specialists, you should pursue the purpose of demonstrating familiarity and expertise in the topic. Some writing tips, which you should follow when providing a review of literature: Place your original work within the context of the existing sources; Make sure to interpret the key issues pertaining to your topic of interest; Focus on describing the relationship among chosen literary sources; Come up with new ways of interpretation and point out the gaps in the analyzed sources; Provide solutions to the existing conflicts or controversies among previous studies; Indicate which literature makes a major contribution to your understanding of the topic; Indicate the perspectives of your further research. Constituents of a Literature Review In order to be properly written, a literature review must be well-structured. The ideas should be presented logically and coherently. Besides, it is highly important to provide clear transitions from one idea/point to the other. In your choice of sources, make sure they are relevant to the topic of your research and not outdated. When presenting concepts and terminology, make sure you do it as comprehensively and unbiased as possible. Include the following parts into your review of literature: Brief overview of the topic, main issues/ aspects or theory; Separate review of sources for and against your research topic/position; Provide the background for your research, which was made before; When writing the conclusion, indicate which of the works have made the most significant contribution to the study. Pay attention to the following criteria when deciding which work to include in your review: Credibility: which of the authors ideas are persuasive and why? Qualifications: Does the author have suitable/required credentials to conduct a well-comprehensive research? Worth: do the authors findings add value to your own ones? Neutrality: are the authors perspectives biased or not? You should present your attitide towards the works you review with the help of reporting verbs, which indicate whether you accept a certain viewpoint/stance or not. Reporting verbs indicate the following: Neutral evaluation: comment, cite, address; Positive evaluation: hold, argue, advocate; Critical evaluation: condemn, refute, object, attack; Tentative evaluation: suggest, allude to, hypothesize, believe. All in all, the way of presentation the materials in your literature review should demonstate that you have chosen and quoted the most relevant material to support/refute your argument and that you have provided sense when introducing quotes into your argument development (by clealry interpreting them and linking to the idea you aim to express).

Turn Campus Leftovers Into Meals in College

Turn Campus Leftovers Into Meals in College Maybe you’ve heard of that University of Maryland student who noticed that his campus kitchen ends up with a lot of leftovers and decided to donate them to hungry families. The effort grew into a bigger project and he now runs a nonprofit called Food Recovery Network. Leftovers have a long history from charity to high cuisine. Did you know that a lot of famous national dishes emerged as a way to do something with leftovers? Pizza is said to have come about as a result of putting leftover ingredients on top of a baked bread base. Gazpacho, the cold Spanish soup is made from leftover stale bread and tomatoes. Bouillabaisse, the French fish soup was made of the leftover fish that the fisherman couldn’t sell at the market. Soups, stews, sandwiches, salads, omelets, casseroles and other yummy dishes can all be easily made from leftovers. Below, youll find some steps for you to make meals out of campus leftovers: First, you’ll need to get permission from your campus kitchen. Obviously, you can’t just walk in and start filling up some tupperwares with food. Approach the director of the campus kitchen and maybe a member of student affairs to coordinate how and when you’ll have access to campus leftovers. If there are no kitchen facilities in your dorm, you’ll need to get access to the campus kitchen facilities. Be patient, respectful and persistent. There’s really no good reason why good food should go to waste. There are basically three categories of leftovers: Leftover starches Leftover vegetables Leftover meat In the case of there being a lot of leftover starches such as bread, pasta, rice or potatoes, all you need to do is add some vegetables and/or meat to make a great meal. Likewise with the leftover vegetables and meat, you’ll just need to bulk up your leftovers by adding some starches. Find some examples below. Bread French onion soup a cheap and delicious meal. Some leftover bread, some onions and cheese is all you need to make this dish. Bread pudding beat some eggs, add some milk and cinnamon and bake for a fast, easy dessert. Sloppy Joes add some ground beef in tomato sauce for a simple Sloppy Joe. Pasta Add a can of tomato sauce and a tin of tuna for a quick and yummy tuna pasta dish. Or fry up some garlic for a quick aglio e olio. Add a can of peas and some cream and chop up some ham for a creamy option. Or bake your pasta with some cheese for a simple mac and cheese option. Rice Rice balls just combine the leftover rice with a little cheese, roll in breadcrumbs and deep fry them or bake them. Serve with hot sauce, ketchup, marinara sauce or your condiment of choice. Rice pudding make sure the rice doesn’t have salt in it first. Then just add milk or coconut milk, an egg, sugar, honey or another sweetener and cinnamon. Raisins are a popular addition, but totally optional. Stir fried rice this is the ultimate leftover dish. Throw some veggies (carrots, bell peppers, cabbage, spinach, onion, garlic and whatever else you have) and douse it with soy sauce. Add the rice and stir. Vegetables Vegetable soup a tablet of chicken or vegetable stock and some time are all you need to make this dish. Add rice, noodles or meat. Veggie omelet take those leftover veggies and tuck them into an omelet. Easy. You can also make Pasta Primavera by just adding pasta and some parmesan cheese. Chicken Chicken fried rice just bulk this one up with some rice and you’re golden. Chicken soup add some veggies, noodles or rice and some chicken stock. Chicken Caesar salad chop up the chicken and add it to your salad. The original Caesar salad is with Caesar dressing and romaine lettuce. Meat Shepherd’s Pie another legendary leftover’s dish, whip up some mash potatoes and layer the meat with some peas, carrots and onions under the mashed potatoes. Top with cheese and bake. Pasta Bolognese add some pasta, cream and tomato sauce to the leftover meat and enjoy this traditional Italian dish. Fish Fish chowder add some milk and some corn and carrots or potatoes and you’ve got yourself a lovely fish chowder. Shrimp salad top your salad with some shrimp salad, add dressing and enjoy! Or eat it on a sandwich. There are infinite ways to enjoy leftovers. What are your favorite leftover recipes?

The Benefits Of College Sports Speech or Presentation

The Benefits Of College Sports - Speech or Presentation Example Instead, they opt to spend the period set aside for sports studying, socializing or shopping.College sports have been beneficial for students who are offered scholarships based on their sporting prowess in games including tennis, American football, basketball and swimming (Shulman and Bowen 154). Students from marginalized communities benefit immensely from such programs. Most colleges in Europe do not pay the deserved attention to college sports as in other continents (Rosner,Scott and Shropshire 428). This is owing to the shared belief that education is more important than college sports. European varsities do not have the same number of sporting events like the ones in the United States and varsities in other regions of the world. In fact, the experience of college sports is not an important part of the college experience in continental Europe. At its best, most institutions have informal leagues for rugby and soccer. For instance, there are irregular college rugby matches at Twin ckenham between Cambridge and Oxford annually. In addition to, there are inter university events in football and basketball but the situation is still wanting in comparison to other continents. Further study into the topic reveals that college sports do not get enough support from the varsities and the sport departments. It has been observed that there are no sports scholarships in Europe. This adversely affects the sporting landscape in the region, as there are no incentives to take part in sports. This means that that the number of students taking part in college sports is minimal. Secondly, college sports events do not get appropriate coverage. This means students lack the necessary information on sports and those excelling in the sports are not recognized for their efforts. Other continents offer full media and television coverage to such events increasing their popularity among the students. Thirdly, a well-established fan base has a positive impact on the college sports scene (Rosner,Scott and Shropshire 428). Regrettably, the fan base for the various college sports is minimal. This further decreases the popularity of such sports. Additionally, it discourages the participation of any students who would be willing to take part in college sports (Shulman and Bowen 154). Fourthly, college sports do not get the necessary funding to develop and expand its activities. Finally, the college stadiums and facilities in the European varsities are not well developed. This means that those taking part in the sports do not get the appropriate training in a healthy environment. Additionally, the lack of proper training and sporting facilities dampen the efforts of the students taking part in the sports. The issue is no different at Franklin College Switzerland since sports are taken too lightly and denied the deserved attention. This is owing to the fact that too much attention is given to education and other extra curricula activities that are considered more importan t. It has been noted that there are no sporting scholarships offered at Franklin College Switzerland. This leads to the decline in attention paid to sports. The college rarely organizes sporting events within the institution and with other colleges. Additionally, the stadium at the institution has an inadequate space to accommodate various sporting activities. The college

Mid-term essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Mid-term - Essay Example It was a time of religious intolerance when a strict theocratic rule existed in most of Europe. An example of the extreme power of the Papacy at around this period was its ability to wage wars against other countries. This powerful papacy launched the Crusades which fought for a period of two centuries against the Muslims who conquered and occupied the Near East, especially Jerusalem. It also fought against other perceived enemies of the faith such as those pagans in the Slavic region, the Jews, the Mongols and other peoples it considered as heretics. In the real sense, the papacy was a power unto itself and exercised both religious and temporal powers. It concerned itself with matters of the state and even kings bowed to it. It was against this backdrop that the Reformation movement begun that was started by a simple act of Martin Luther. He questioned some of the questionable practices of the clergy during his time. He saw how the clerical powers had been abused at the expense of o rdinary people and how it strayed so far away from its original religious mandate of saving the souls. It is necessary to give a brief background in order to understand the context in which Martin Luther challenged the papal authority and the manifest abuses of the system (Jacobs 7). Discussion The Catholic Church at around this time can be characterized, to put it mildly, as very corrupt. Candidates for the papacy outmaneuvered each other, engaged in political intrigues, some popes and priests were married and had families (before celibacy was imposed) and the general atmosphere within the Catholic hierarchy was far removed from religious matters. The main protest of Martin Luther was centered on the granting of indulgences. It was the practice of the Catholic Church at that time to give full or partial remissions for those sins committed and their accompanying or corresponding temporal punishment. Indulgences were replacements for severe penances imposed by the early church for si ns committed drawn from the supposed accumulated goodwill in the Treasury of Merit. Because the Church was very corrupt and engaged more in temporal matters than what was necessary, it was constantly in need of funds to finance its various projects like building massive cathedrals and to finance its religious wars. Due to this scarcity of funds, the Church decided to raise money through the sale of these so-called indulgences (Somervill 43). It was not originally intended by Martin Luther to split the Church itself but his intentions were just to point out the sheer error in selling indulgences when these were supposed to be free. A very important point raised by Luther was that indulgences cannot save sinners since forgiveness is a power granted by God alone and not from buying and paying for these indulgences. He saw how unfair it was for the pope at that time (Pope Leo) to finance construction of an extravagant St. Peter's Basilica when the papacy itself had so much money. Moreov er, he did not like the lavish lifestyle of the pope and the squandering of church funds through the support of extraneous things like art and culture. The pope had designated a short Dominican monk to undertake the sale of indulgences to raise funds; going from town to town, telling the people how they can save the souls of their relatives in Purgatory by buying indulgences. The Ninety-five Theses of Martin Luther –