The Eastern Red Cedar and Other Popular Christmas Trees

Americans buy about 20 million real Christmas trees  each holiday season, most at retail lots and Christmas tree farms. Depending on where you live, the kind of evergreen youll find will vary. In fact, there are dozens of evergreens native to the U.S. Cant decide which one you like best? The trees below are some of the most popular Christmas varieties. Fraser Fir The  Fraser fir  is perhaps the most popular variety of Christmas tree because it is hardy enough to survive being cut and shipped across long distances. The Fraser is a native southern fir and grows at elevations above 5,000 feet. The tree has excellent needle retention along with a pleasing piney scent. The Fraser fir was named for Scottish botanist John Fraser, who explored the southern Appalachians in the late 1700s. Douglas Fir The  Douglas fir  is another common variety of Christmas tree found throughout the central and northern U.S. It is not a true fir and has its own unique species classification. Unlike those of true firs, the cones of the Douglas fir hang downward. They have a sweet scent when crushed. The tree was named after David Douglas, who studied the tree in the 1800s. Balsam Fir The Balsam fir is a beautiful pyramidal tree with short, flat, long-lasting aromatic needles. The Balsam fir and the Fraser fir have many similar characteristics and some botanists consider them extensions of the same species. However, balsams prefer cool climates and are native to the northeastern U.S. and Canada. They have a nice, dark green color and are very fragrant. The Balsam fir was named for the balsam or resin found in blisters on its bark, which was used to treat wounds during the Civil War. Colorado Blue Spruce The  Colorado blue spruce  is most familiar to people as an ornamental landscape tree. It has dark green to powdery blue needles and a pyramidal form when young. The Colorado blue spruce is very often sold as a living Christmas tree,  which includes an entire root ball and can be planted after the holidays. Its also popular because it rarely sheds its needles indoors. The spruce was chosen in 1978 and planted as the official living White House Christmas tree and is the state tree of both Utah and Colorado. Scotch Pine The  Scotch pine  is one of the most popular Christmas tree species because it rarely sheds its needles and has excellent water retention when cut. The Scotch pine is not native to America; its origins are European. It was first used in reforestation efforts in the New World. The Scotch pine tree has stiff branches and dark green needles that are retained for four weeks. Its aroma is long-lasting and lingers through the entire holiday season. Eastern Red Cedar The  Eastern red cedar  is a popular Christmas tree in the southern U.S., where it is a native species. This evergreen isnt a true cedar; its a member of the juniper family. Unlike some species that must be pruned regularly to maintain the traditional cone shape, the Eastern red cedar comes by its pyramidal crown naturally. The trees ease of maintenance makes it a favorite at cut-your-own tree farms. Its needles are a dark, shiny green color and sharp and prickly to the touch. White Spruce The white spruce is native to the northeastern U.S. and Canada, and one of the most common varieties sold as Christmas trees in that region. Like the Eastern red cedar, the white spruce has a natural conical shape that makes it easy for tree farmers to maintain. Its a common  choice for cut-your-own farms. However, some people dont like white spruce trees because they tend to shed their needles, which have an unpleasant odor. On the plus side, the trees thick branches make it ideal for heavy ornaments. Eastern White Pine The  Eastern white pine  has been valued as a timber tree for centuries, and it is commonly sold in the mid-Atlantic states as a Christmas tree. Because this variety of evergreen has very little scent, it is popular with people who suffer from tree-related allergies. Eastern white pines have excellent needle retention and stout branches to support heavy decorations. White or Concolor Fir The White fir, sometimes called the concolor fir, is known for its long, blue-green needles, excellent needle retention, and pleasing pine scent. Its commonly sold as a Christmas tree in California, where it is a native species. Virginia Pine The Virginia pine is a newcomer to many Christmas tree lots, particularly in the South. This variety was developed as a heat-tolerant alternative to the Scotch pine and has only recently been used as a Christmas tree. The Virginia pine has wide tufts of soft needles ranging from dark green to gray in color. Its limbs are stout with woody branches.

The Armada Of The Spanish Armada - 1200 Words

THE SPANISH ARMADA Armada Portrait Queen Elizabeth I The Armada Portrait Buy at Allposters.com The defeat of the Spanish Armada is one of the most famous events in English history. It was arguably Queen Elizabeth s finest hour. For years she had been hailed as the English Deborah, the saviour of the English people, and now it seemed that this is what she had really become. She was now Bellona, the goddess of war, and in triumph she had led her people to glory, defeating the greatest power in the 16th century world. Spain was the most powerful country in the world. Philip II ruled vast territories of land, and had unparalleled wealth from the New World. England was a small country, with little wealth, few friends, and many enemies.†¦show more content†¦This had angered Philip immensely, especially as the stolen treasure was used to help fund those people rebelling against his rule in the Netherlands. As early as 1585, Philip had begun to prepare a great fleet that, under the Spanish commander Santa Cruz, would invade England. At first the aim of the Armada was to liberate the captive Queen of Scots, but when Mary was executed for conspiring Elizabeth s death in 1587, Philip planned to invade England in the name of his daughter, the Infanta Isabella. Philip believed he had a genuine claim to the English throne, both by descent from John of Gaunt, and as Queen Mary I s husband. The purpose of the mission was to depose Elizabeth, put Mary/Isabella on the throne, and make England Roman Catholic once again. It was perhaps an omen, however, that from the start, the Spanish faced problems. Santa Cruz died, and his successor, the Duke of Medina Sedonia, was not at all suited to the post. He had little faith in the enterprise and little experience. He begged Philip to release him from the charge, but the King was adamant. The enterprise had received another set back when Francis Drake and his men had sailed to the coast of Spain and destroyed many of the Spanish ships at Cadiz. Queen Elizabeth had heard mutterings of the intended invasion of England by

Financial Reporting A Key Resource Company

Question: Describe about the Financial Reporting for A Key Resource Company. Answer: Introduction BHP Billiton BHP Billiton, a key resource company specializes in production of commodities like copper, coal, iron ore etc. It is also involved in activities related to gas, coal, and oil. It has also gained the title of a major producer of items such as iron ore, nickel, silver etc. The company headquarters in Melbourne, Australia and its listing is on the ASX. The company targets on a long-term basis to own low-cost assets that are diversifiable by market and geographical locations. For such purposes, it satisfies the needs and expectations of customers through its growth and resources. The sales initiated through Houston and Singapore but are sold throughout the globe. Incorporated in 1885, it hires nearly 123,800 employees and contractors diversified to more than 130 locations, for such motives. BHPs position is a clear-cut sign of its significant contribution towards achievement of economic growth (BHP Billiton, 2015). Rio Tinto Rio Tinto is a leader in the field mining and mineral processing. It aims to offer strong returns to its shareholders through an effective portfolio. It is headquartered in UK and employs more than 60000 people in its workforce. Established in 1873, its listing is on the ASX and is operative in 40 countries as a whole. With an international presence, it can provide a proper prowess in the right time. On a whole, it pursues an effective portfolio that assists it to develop globally (Rio Tinto, 2015). It aims to offer an enhanced value to customers and to be a most reliable partner. 2. Sources of financing BHP Billiton The total debt accommodating liabilities that were of interest bearing nature and BHP Group issued a four part Global Bond totaling to US$5 billion that consists of Senior Floating Rate Notes of US$ 500. BHP pursues US$ 6 billion commercial papers that are funded by credit facilities of US$6 billion. The financing activities consists of liability proceeds that are interest bearing in nature, liability repayments that are also interest bearing, proceeds from debt-related instruments, ordinary share proceeds, activities of buy-back, dividend payment etc. These activities result in cash flow from financing activities (BHP Billiton, 2015). The equity part consists of treasury shares, share capital, retained earnings, and reserves. The issued share capital consists of shares assisted by treasury, preference, and public shares. Rio Tinto Rio pursues powerful finance availability but not lean to banks and capital markets. It obtained Finance Plc bonds through the group in 2013. This finance limited and finance plc proceeded into an activity that resulted in a sum of US$7.5 billion as syndicate banks borrowers. The group entered into a bilateral agreement (bank facility). In order to manage obligations, Rio issued 1436542 treasury shares and 951 fresh shares. The trustees bought 842000 shares and company registrar bought 1089189 shares for satisfaction of obligations. Retained earnings, share premium account, and reserves form a significant part of the companys share capital (Rio Tinto, 2015). The financing activities comprised of equity dividend payment, repayment of all borrowings, interest purchase (non-controlling), proceeds extracted from further drawings, and other cash flows. Ratio Analysis and comparison a. Profitability Ratio BHP Billiton Net Profit Margin Net profit Margin 2014 2015 Net income 15224 2878 Net sales 56762 44636 26.82076 6.44771 A significant decline in the net profit margin is observable in 2015 due to the inappropriate control of operating profit ratio and operating expenses by the company. Hence, it must consider the same. Return on Total Assets ROTA 2014 2015 PBT 21735 8056 total assets 15413 124580 1.410173 0.064665 The ratio of ROTA declined in 2015 as the company has not efficiently utilized its resources. Such a sign is a poor indicator and hence, company must make ways for change (Williams, 2012). Rio Tinto Net Profit Margin Net profit Margin 2014 2015 Net income 4285 799 Net sales 24337 17980 17.60694 4.443826 The net profit margin of Rio Tinto also declined as it failed to sustain its operating expenses as a whole. ROTA ROTA 2014 2015 PBT 6092 1745 total assets 107827 101303 ROTA 0.056498 0.017226 Rio Tinto witnessed a sharp decline in its ROTA as it failed to utilize its resources properly. Comparison It is observable through the profitability ratio that both BHP Billiton and Rio Tinto failed to deliver a proper profitability ratio. Both the companies witnessed a decline in ROTA and the net profit margin and hence, both must make ways for change (Parrino et. al, 2012). Liquidity Ratio BHP Quick Ratio Quick Ratio 2014 2015 Quick assets 16,283 12,077 Current liabilities 18,064 12,853 Quick ratio 0.901406 0.939625 BHP is approximately closer to the standard quick ratio of 1:1. An increment is observable in 2015 that depicts that BHP has enough resources to discharge its obligations (Northington, 2011). Current Ratio Current Ratio 2014 2015 Current asset 22296 16369 Current liabilities 18064 12853 Current ratio 1.23427812 1.2735548 An enhancement of current ratio is observable in 2015 that portrays BHP is solvent and is capable of meeting its obligations with flexibility and simplicity (Needles Powers, 2013). Rio Tinto Quick Ratio Quick ratio 2014 2015 Quick assets 16463 14349 Current liabilities 12220 11980 1.347218 1.197746 A significant decline in the quick ratio of Rio Tinto is observable that depicts that it does not pursue enough resources. Moreover, the ratios are near to standard ratio and it will definitely assist Rio in achieving desired outcomes (Melville, 2013). Current Ratio Current ratio 2014 2015 Current assets 20813 18273 Current liabilities 12220 11980 A decreased current ratio of Rio Tinto suggests that it will encounter problems in meeting the obligations. However, the decrease is less and is attributable to decline in current assets (Melville, 2013). Comparison In relation to liquidity ratio, it is observable that BHP is in a good position to meet its debt obligations because its quick and current ratios have increased towards standard ratios but the opposite is in Rio Tintos case. c. Market performance BHP Earnings per share 2014 2015 EPS 249.3 120.7 A decline in the companys EPS suggests poor company performance in relation to factor of earnings (Horngren, 2013). Dividend per share Dividend per share 2014 2015 118 124 An increment of DPS in 2015 suggests shareholder benefits because of profits made by BHP. However, other ratios have disappointed in comparison to 2014. Rio Tinto DPS DPS 2014 2015 103.09 144.91 An increase in DPS suggests shareholder benefits due to significant profits earned by Rio in 2015 (Horngren, 2013). EPS EPS 2014 2015 238.2 43.8 A decline of EPS depicts a bad indicator for Rio Tinto, as shareholder benefits will be less. However, when it comes to profitability measurement, this can be considerable as a best indicator. It is notable that this EPS is not entirely for 2015 and hence, figures can vary (Gibson, 2010). Comparison Both the companies have witnessed increment in DPS that indicates better scenarios for obtaining profit by them. Furthermore, such good profits imply payment to shareholders as dividend (Gibson, 2010). The dividend enhanced and EPS declined in case of both the companies but such decline was more in Rios case. On a whole, BHP is better. Capital structure BHP Equity ratio Equity ratio 2014 2015 Shareholder fund 79143 64768 total assets 151413 124580 Equity ratio 0.522696 0.519891 A decline in equity ratio of BHP is observable here and it suggests that creditors of BHP are at huge risk as its resources have burnt out towards interest payment (Libby et. al, 2011). Debt equity ratio Debt equity ratio 2014 2015 Total liabilities 66031 54035 Shareholder equity 79143 64768 Debt equity ratio 0.83432521 0.8342854 It is observable that the company has taken no further debt from markets and continued activities from resources it pursues. In other words, a little reliance is on debt, which is a good indicator. Rio Tinto Equity ratio Equity ratio 2014 2015 Shareholder fund 46285 42647 total assets 107827 101303 Equity ratio 0.429252 0.420985 A low equity ratio is observable that depicts efficiency of capital structure. Furthermore, it declined in 2015 that suggests high risks, thereby creating problems in taking of loans and huge sum expended for interest payment. Debt equity ratio Debt equity ratio 2014 2015 Total liabilities 53233 50670 Shareholder equity 46285 42647 Debt equity ratio 1.150113 1.188126 An increment in debt equity ratio suggests increase in debt. Rios reliability on debt is high and this is an issue because lender claims will be more when debts are high (Kaplan, 2011). Comparison In relation to the above, the capital structure of BHP is better with equity and less reliance on debt but lower equity ratio indicates problems especially for lenders. Rio has higher debt equity ratio that signifies high reliance on debt and low equity ratio also create problems for creditors. Framework BHP Billiton BHP pursues a powerful corporate planning that allows it to meet the challenges of the external environment, thereby facilitating in an enhanced average return (Brigham Daves, 2012). The beginning stage rests the creation of a central case that assists in assessment of bottom up strategies. Furthermore, the designed planning of corporate procedures assists in outshining several uncertainties prevalent in the international scenario. Nevertheless, the framework supports in establishing external factors that comprises political, technical and governance. Even the compliance and governance procedures make sure that review of internal control is appropriate (BHP Billiton, 2015). Therefore, this designed framework assists in mitigating risks and providing an effective solution. Rio Tinto Rio Tinto emphasizes risk dealing a relevant portion of creating and protecting value. The risk management framework identifies leaders as significant and assists in providing perfect guidance. Rios framework aims for such a way so that risks are controllable to a desired stage (Rio Tinto, 2015). Summary Findings Both Rio Tinto and BHP belong to a similar industry but the significant part that requires explanation is the maintenance of internal policies. Both the companies choose a varied framework. Secondly, the long-term finance is observable by way of bonds. Both companies pursue varied management and therefore, they pursue varied strategic tools. Besides, the ratio analysis outcomes will be different in different scenarios (Choi Meek, 2011). Thirdly, the ascribable profit of BHP Billiton stood at US$ 13.8 billion and the net operating cash reported at US$ 25.4 billion. These advantageous results are attributable to the increased production and cost effectiveness measures of the company. The company received A credit rating and its balance sheet depicted strong results too due to the fact that it invested in high return schemes. On the other hand, Rio created sustainable shareholder returns in 2014 by providing vital commodities. A powerful and operational performance is observable through the annual report. The net cash from operating activities reported at US$14.3 billion while the underlying earnings stood at US$9.3 billion. Fourthly, Furthermore, the company at enhanced prices sold assets worth US$ 6.7 billion. The company also did an effective contribution towards the environment and communities that made it very popular. Moreover, in relation to recordable injury, the company noted a significant decline of nine percent. The significant increase of two percent in the revenues made the figure US$ 67.2 billion (BHP Billiton, 2015). On the contrary, in the case of Rio, the capex decreased to US$8.2 billion and economic contribution reported at US$230 billion. In 2014, the company had paid 204.5 US cents per share that is 15 cents higher to that of 2013. The net debt decreased from US$18055 to US$12495, thereby indicating low reliance on debt (Rio Tinto, 2015). Recommendation/ Forecast It is clearly observable that both companies are striving to obtain their goals but they have to encounter various difficulties for the same. Since, not all standards are sustainable; ratio analysis can result in variations in the results. Moreover, the ratios of both companies suggest that they pursue a potential to increase their position in the market through their strategies. To ensure a better performance it is important for both the companies to stress on capital structure. However, Rio needs to strengthen its balance sheet and various other ratio while BHP has strong fundamentals that can help it to attain a strong position. In the coming years both the companies can further strengthen their hold on the market as the fundamentals are strong. References BHP Billiton 2015, BHP Billiton Annual Report and accounts 2015, viewed 24 September 2016, https://www.bhpbilliton.com/~/media/bhp/documents/investors/annual-reports/2015/bhpbillitonannualreport2015.pdf. Brigham, E. Daves, P 2012, Intermediate Financial Management , USA: Cengage Learning. Carmichael, D.R. Graham, L 2012, Accountants Handbook, Financial Accounting and General Topics, John Wiley Sons. Choi, R.D. Meek, G.K 2011, International accounting, Pearson . Gibson, C 2010, Financial Reporting and Analysis: Using Financial Accounting Information, Cengage Learning. Horngren, C 2013, Financial accounting, Frenchs Forest, N.S.W: Pearson Australia Group. Kaplan, R.S 2011. Accounting scholarship that advances professional knowledge and practice, The Accounting Review, vol. 86, no.2, pp. 367383. Libby, R., Libby, P. Short, D 2011,Financial accounting, New York: McGraw-Hill/Irwin. Melville, A 2013, International Financial Reporting A Practical Guide, Pearson, Education Limited, UK Needles, B. Powers, M 2013, Principles of Financial Accounting, Cengage Learning. Series: Cengage Learning. Northington, S 2011, Finance, New York, NY: Ferguson's. Parrino, R., Kidwell, D. Bates, T 2012, Fundamentals of corporate finance, Hoboken, NJ: Wiley Williams, J 2012, Financial accounting, New York: McGraw-Hill/Irwin. Rio Tinto 2015, Rio Tinto Annual Report and accounts 2015, viewed 24 September 2016, https://www.riotinto.com/documents/150806_Rio_Tinto_delivers_first_half_underlying_earnings_of__2.9_billion.pdf.

Review for FS Test Ch. 1 Essays - Law, Evidence Law, Criminal Law

Review for FS Test Ch. 1 Instructions: Use your online textbook and PPP for Chapter 1 Know what a forensic scientist does. Government agencies that have their own crime labs? (from PPP) FBI, DEA, ATF, USPS, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of Homeland Security, and Department of the Treasury What is considered evidence? Evidence is anything that tends to establish or disprove a fact . Date that the FBI crime lab was created? 1932 How are violations of Civil Law punished? Violations of civil law are usually punished by fines or transfer of property. Another name for Criminal Law? Public law Entities that fall within Administrative Law Laws established by IRS, SSA, or branches of military Types of law that forensic scientists deal with? Case/common law, civil law, and criminal law What does the Miranda Right guarantee? The Miranda Right s are guaranteed by the Constitution . The p olice must advi se an arrestee of their rights. T he Miranda Right guarantee s the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. What does "stare decisis" mean? "to stand by the decision", meaning previous legal decisions are to be followed Do you need a jury for a preliminary hearing? No What is a plea bargain? Agreement in which a defendant plea d s guilty to a less charge and the prosecutor in return drops more serious charges to avoid the cost and time of a trial. What is needed for evidence to be considered admissible? Admissibility is determined by: -Whether the theory or technique can be tested -Whether the science has been offered for peer review -Whether the rate of error is acceptable -Whether the method at issue enjoys widespread acceptance. -Whether the opinion is relevant to the issue -Must be Probative and Material -Means, Motives, Opportunity Who determines if a person is considered an "expert"? Their credentials, background and experience establishes their credibility as an expert witness. What is taken into consideration to determine the effectiveness of an expert's testimony? The judge can determine the significance of the expert's option Case that states what is accepted by the relevant scientific community. The case of Frye v. United States brought the concept of evidence accepted by the scientific community. Amendment that protects against unreasonable search and seizure? Bill of Rights, 4 th Amendmen t Amendment that protects against self-incrimination? Bill of Rights, 5 th Amendment Crime unit that deals with blood stains? Biology Unit How are lie detectors used in criminology? Lie detectors (polygraphs) are used to analyze pulse and breathing rates to tell if a person is lying.