The Writings of Shakespeare and Donne Essay Example for Free

The Writings of Shakespeare and Donne Essay The poems from William Shakespeare and John Donne that interest me are â€Å"Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day† and â€Å"The flea†. One of the main reason that I am writing about these two poems are because they are the only ones that I know of because that is what we talked about in class and I have never read poetry in my life. Poetry has always been difficult for me to read because of my mild case of dyslexia. I have to read the sentence a couple of times before I finally figure out what the writer is trying to say. Obviously I have heard of Shakespeare before and knew about his works that included Romeo and Juliet, Hamlet, Macbeth, and Julius Caesar. What I didn’t know was how successful and influential his poetry was. But unlike William Shakespeare, I have never heard about John Donne until the lecture a few days ago. After reading the two poems I believe that there are many similarities and differences in the style that both of these poets write. In â€Å"Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day by William Shakespeare I certainly feel that the author is addressing a woman with whom he is truly in love. This is purveyed to me by the two strong opening lines, â€Å"Shall I compare thee to a summers day? Thou art more lovely and more temperate†. Shakespeare starts the sonnet off with how strongly he loves this woman and then goes on to say â€Å"Rough winds do shake the darling buds of May, And summer’s lease hath all to short a date: Sometimes too hot the eye of heaven shines† Shakespeare is saying that even though he loves her, she is still not perfect. Afterwards he goes on to say, â€Å"But thy eternal summer shall not fade, Nor lose possession of that fair thou ow’st† which he is saying that her youth will not fade and that her beauty will always remain with her for the rest of her life. It ends with â€Å"So long as men can breathe, or eyes can see, So long lives this, and this gives life to thee. † He is trying to say that as long as people are alive on the Earth, his feelings towards this woman will never change and will allow her to live forever. A poem we have studied and which also focuses on a similar situation to that of â€Å"Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day† is â€Å"The flea† by John Donne. In it he goes on to say that the flea has sucked both of their bloods and how they are now mingled together. He says, â€Å"This flea is you and I, and this Our marriage bed and marriage temple is† The man in the story believes that he and the woman are one with the flea and if she decides to kill the flea she would be killing the marriage between them. The poem ends with, â€Å"’Tis true; then learn how false fears be: Just so much honor, when thou yield’st to me, Will waste, as this flea’s death took life from thee. This means that if she were to sleep with him, she would lose no more honor than she lost when she killed the flea. The similarities between â€Å"The flea† and â€Å"Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day† are not quite as numerous as the differences. One of the main similarities is that both of the main characters are in love with a woman, even their love seems to be the opposite of each other. There are many differences in the way that Shakespeare and Donne write. Shakespeare is more in your face I guess you would say. He doesn’t use as much trickery as Donne does in his sonnet and is a lot easier to understand in my opinion. The tone in â€Å"Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day† seems to be more upbeat than in â€Å"The flea†. How Donne uses a flea and blood in his sonnet makes it seem more ominous. As you can see, they are many similarities and differences in the way that William Shakespeare and John Donne write in â€Å"Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day† and â€Å"The Flea†. Both of these poets had a long lasting impact upon Western Civilization and helped influence the English language all around the world. If someday I become hooked to reading poetry, I can look back and know these two poems are what got me addicted.

Sports In Russia During 1905 To 1913 History Essay

Sports In Russia During 1905 To 1913 History Essay The early twentieth century was a very important time for Russian sports history; many new types of sports gained popularity throughout the country and the nation took its level of athletic competition to an all time new level. Understanding the role of sports in Russias history is significant because sports are more than a form of entertainment for spectators as well as those who participate in them. The reality is that sports are a great symbol of exercise, physical fitness, a healthy life style/society, and camaraderie between teammates and even opponents. Furthermore, when a nation competes in sporting competitions with other nations, this is a form of athletic socialization that suggests healthy and friendly relationships with other countries. For these reasons, understanding the role of sports during this time period in Russian history is valuable to understanding this time period in Russia. Among the sports that took center stage during this time period were tennis and soccer, although basketball, cricket, fencing, wrestling and various other sports did gain popularity during this time period as well. In addition to sports gaining popularity, the early twentieth century was also an important time for Russian sports for a different reason; during this period, the initial endeavors of Russia in the most popular sports competition in the world took place, the Olympic Games! Tennis in Russia during 1910 (Nikolaev and Gazeta 1). One sport that gained increased recognition during the first decade of the twentieth century was tennis. This sport, which was originally introduced in Russia during the summer of 1878, was even enjoyed by Tsar Nicholas II himself! In fact, Tsar Nicholas II was a keen tennis player. His diary entries are full of references to the sport: played tennis after breakfast until 5 oclock, played a lot of tennis, enjoyed playing tennis, I personally played seven sets, went to play tennis early and played and sweated a great deal (Nikolaev and Gazeta 1). In addition to this famous leader, there were other proponents of the sport that also helped increase its popularity. For example, some men who are now considered by many people as the pioneers of professional tennis in Russia include Count Mikhail Sumarokov-Elston, who was Russias champion in 1910-1914, as well as Arthur MacPherson, who was one of the founders of Russian lawn tennis (Nikolaev and Gazeta 1). Soccer During the later part of the nineteenth century, Soccer was gaining popularity in Russia; however, in the eyes of the Russian government, this was not perceived as a good thing. In fact, the Russian government actually went to great lengths in order to attempt to restrict the practice of soccer amongst the countrys ethnic minorities. The purpose of this policy was to try and maintain the sport as something that was exclusively for the countrys elite. In order to accomplish this, those who were considered of a lower class, could not be associated with the game. Not surprisingly, this policy failed, and the games popularity spread quickly during the time when many Russian students were returning home from England. By 1905, the majority of Russias clubs had already been established, and in 1912, according to the Russian National Football Ream website, The Football Association of Russia was founded in 1912 and became affiliated to FIFA that same year. During this same year, Russia partic ipated in an Olympic Games Football Tournament for the first time in its history. Other Sports Basketball was also popular in Russia during the early years of the twentieth century (Nelson 22). In addition to this sport, cricket was also appreciated throughout Russia. In fact, there were many popular sports clubs throughout the country during this time period where people could go to enjoy this game; there were even some clubs that were specifically dedicated to the game of cricket, such as the St. Petersburg Cricket Club (Nikolaev and Gazeta 1). Other sports played in Russia during this time include fencing, football, wrestling, racing, and gymnastics. Although there were other sports that were played and well-loved in Russia during this time period, these sports were among the most popular. Olympics Not only were many sports gaining popularity in the country during the early twentieth century, but it was during this time period that Russia began competing on an international level as well. Up until this point, the majority of Russias sport activities were local. Indeed, the most noteworthy change in Russian sports history was that this nation began competing in the Olympic Games. Although this was a big change in Russian sports history, it is important to note that despite Russias initial participation in these Olympic Games of 1900, the country did not compete in the Olympics again until 1908. Russia chose not to partake in the 1904 summer Olympics, but in the 1908 games, Russia not only competed, but the nation completed the games ranking in twelfth place. The 1908 London Summer Olympics Photo of Nikolai Panin (Dolgopolov 33) [About] one hundred years ago, at the fourth modern Olympics, held in London in 1908, Russia sent a team that was comprised of six athletes; three of them returned with medals. Nikolai Panin was the only one to bring home a gold medal Russias first ever. Panin won it in special figures figure skating (London was the first Olympics to include a non-summer sport). Nikolai Orlov and Alexei Petrov returned with silver medals in wrestling (Dolgopolov 33). In addition to skating and wrestling, Russia also took part in racing that year. However, Russia only had one athelete competing in the the athletics segment of the Olympic games, which greatly decreased their chances of winning a medal. The Russian athelete who did partipate in the athletics segment managed to take ninteenth place out of the twenty-seven racers who also competed in those games (The British Olympic Council 49). The 1912 Stockholm Summer Olympics Russias commendable victory in the 1908 London Summer Olympics was followed by another great performance in the 1912 Stockholm Summer Olympics. Although Russia did not win any gold medals in these games, the country still managed to win two silver medals and three bronze medals, which was good enough to give Russia a ranking of sixteenth place in those games. One of the silver medals was won by a team comprised of Amos Kash, Nikolai Melnitsky, Pavel Voyloshnikov and Grigori Panteleimonov; the game was called Shooting, Mens Team 30m military pistol. In addition, the other silver medal was won by Martin Klein in the Wrestling, Greco-Roman middleweight games. In regards to the bronze medals, Mart Kuusik won one medal in the Rowing, Mens single sculls game. Also, Esper Beloselsky, Ernest Brasche, Nikolai Puschnitsky, Aleksandr Rodionov, Iosif Schomaker, Philip Strauch, and Karl Lindblom won a medal in Sailing, Mens 10m class. Finally, Harry Blau won a bronze medal in Shooting, Mens Trap. During these Olympics, Russia exhibited much more skill and willingness to compete that it did in the years preview; this is evident not only in the number of sports games that Russia took part in, but also the number of Russia athletes that competed that year in comparison to the 1900 Olympics in Paris and the 1908 Olympics in London (THE SWEDISH OLYMPIC COMMITTEE 852-861). (THE SWEDISH OLYMPIC COMMITTEE 268) Also worth mentioning is that the 1912 Olympics was Russias debut in the swimming games. Another first for Russia that year was in the cycling part of the games; there were a total of ten cyclists competing on behalf of Russia that year. Diving was another first for Russia, although the nation only had one individual representing it in that segment. Furthermore, the nation sent a total of thirty-five athletes in order to compete on the nations behalf in the athletics segment of the games (ex., racing), which was a huge improvement in comparison to the single marathon runner who competed for Russia in the 1908 Olympic Games. Other games that Russia participated in the 1912 Olympics included equestrian, jumping, fencing, football, gymnastics, rowing, sailing, modern pentathlon, shooting, rowing, tennis, and wrestling. Clearly, Russia has increased its interest in competing in the Olympic games over the past dozen years. Taking a Break from the Olympics Partaking in the Olympic Games was a very important part of Russian sports history, given that the Olympics symbolize global friendliness, fair-play, and unity. It is clear that Russia began taking the Olympics much more seriously with each subsequent visit to the Olympics; this is evident from the number of athletes that this nation decided to send to the Olympics in 1912. It seemed as though Russias participation in these games would be long lasting; however, the camaraderie and national pride that Russian citizens gained during those three trips to the Olympics was short lived. This is because it would be decades before these Russian citizens could feel the national pride of a Russian winning a medal again. The 1916 Olympic Games were cancelled due to World War I and the 1940 and 1944 Olympic Games were cancelled due to World War II. Although these three Olympic Games were canceled as a result of global chaos, this only offers an explanation for three Games. Russia chose not to co mpete in the Olympics again until the 1952 Games, but this time, Russia was not considered Russia anymore; it was the Soviet Union that competed in its place. This brief time that Russia participated in the Olympics has gone down in history as Russias first Olympic endeavors and a very important milestone in Russian Sports history. Dolgopolov, Nikolai. Russias First Gold Medalist. Russian Life 51.4 (2008): 33. Academic Search Complete. EBSCO. Web. 7 Mar. 2010. Nelson, M. The Originals: the New York Celtics invent modern basketball. New York: Bowling Green State Univrsity Popular Press, 1999. THE BRITISH OLYMPIC COUNCIL. The Fourth Olypiad London 1908 Official Report. London: THE BRITISH OLYMPIC ASSOCIATION, 1908. 06 March 2010 THE SWEDISH OLYMPIC COMMITTEE. The Olympic Games of Stockholm 1912 Official Report. Stockholm: WAHLSTRÃÆ'-M WIDSTRAND, 1912. 06 March 2010 Russian National Football Team. A look at Russia. 04 March 2010

Television Violence Essay -- Media TV Violent Essays

Television Violence The media is everywhere in our lives. From billboards to SMS text messaging on cell phones, we cannot escape the media and its impact on daily life. Of the many impacts, television violence and the influence it has on youth is one of the most debated topics. Many experts, including some from the University of California, Santa Barbra, say that the amount and type of violence viewed results in violent actions performed by youth of all ages and violence continually affects them throughout their lives. Others are more skeptical and argue that the media is not the sole cause of youth violence; they believe that there are many other factors that contribute to the violent behaviors of youth. They see the condition more as a mixture of different situations that cause violence in youth, violence on television being just one of the factors. However, both sides of the argument understand that each individual is a separate situation and reacts differently to the violence portrayed. This essay will inform the reader of the claims both sides formulate to defend their argument and allow the reader to determine their own conclusion. Many studies over the past seven years have sought to prove that television and the violence portrayed does have a direct influence on youth and how they will deal with situations in real life. Out of the many studies, one of the most concrete and convincing is the National Television Violence Study (or NTVS) conducted by University of California Santa Barbra, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, University of Texas at Austin and the University of Wisconsin Madison. This study observes not only the response of youth to various types of content but also observed the response of th... ...Media violence: Exposure and Content. Retrieved February 10, 2004 from http://www.surgeongeneral.gov/library/youthviolence/chapter4/appendix4bsec2.html#TelevisionFilm National Television Violence Study, ed. Federman. 3rd ed. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications, Inc, 1998 The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. (1999, April). Children and TV Violence. Retrieved February 10, 2004 from http://www.aacap.org/publications/factsfam/VIOLENCE.HTM Youth Violence: A Report of the Surgeon General. (Unknown). Appendix4b Retrieved February 10, 2004 from http://www.surgeongeneral.gov/library/youthviolence/chapter4/appendix4b.html Youth Violence: A Report of the Surgeon General. (Unknown) Media violence: Exposure and Content. Retrieved February 10, 2004 from http://www.surgeongeneral.gov/library/youthviolence/chapter4/appendix4bsec2.html#TelevisionFilm

The World of Commercial Art and the International Art Market Essay

The World of Commercial Art and the International Art Market The main aims of this research are to acquire an understanding of the conditions of the art market and to develop a critical knowledge of the commercial art world and the relevant international market. The idea that the international art market is a regulator in the post academy art world has implications on the formation of prices and values in the art market, due to the macroeconomic reality, political and cultural changes of this period. Throughout the nineteenth century, the Acadà ©mie des Beaux-Arts continued to produce many important artists. It lost its power only at the turn of the century when it failed to acknowledge radical styles such as Impressionism and Post-Impressionism. The downfall of academic art also was hastened by economic changes in the art market, which included the growth of independent exhibitions and the development of private sales galleries. Over these years, the unsettled system of financial market which the art market became part of has evolved into a greater conscience of the complex behaviour of the individual in his The commercial market economy has been favourable for the development of the arts. Therefore, the market limits the supply of art and antiques studying the consumer economic preference. Hence, market segmentation, division of labour and specialisation caused a division between high and low culture, and separate good art from junk art. In this way, the art market should select the talented artists in a free and wealthy society that allows a very large number of artists to have more opportunities becoming financially independent and to acquire artistic freedom. Although, the role played by the dealer in the market, as cultural entrepreneur, is important for maintain the value of the product. In this instance, how best the international art market can be organized, what is the best way to balance the supply of art and what is the market's purpose through the dissociation of good art from junk art. The market must restrict the supply of art and antiques selecting the talented artists, good art, thereafter raising the relative value of a work of art. Therefore and based on this statement, this essay will consider arguments for the market as the regulator of the supply of art and point out some of the problems with this market's function  «What is ... ...Priceless: Art, Artists and Economics. (New York: Basic) HEILBRUN, J. and GRAY, C.M., 1993. The Economics of Art and Culture, An American Perspective (Cambridge University Press) JEFFRI, J., 1983. Arts Money, Raising it, Saving it and Earning it (Minneapolis: University of Minnesota Press) OWEN, V.L., 1979. "The Effects of Mass Markets on Artistic Quality", Journal of Cultural Economics, Vol.3, no2 REITLINGER, G., 1961. The Economics of Taste, vol I, The Rise and Fall of Picture Prices, 1760-1960 (Holt: Rhinehart & Winston) ROBERTSON, I.A., 2000. The Emerging Art Markets of Great China 1989-1999 (London: City University) SAVAGE, G., 1969. The Market in Art (Kent: Tonbridge Printers) SINGER, L.P., 1988. "Phenomenology and Economics of Art Markets: An Art Historical Perspective", Journal of Cultural Economics, Vol.12, no1 STEIN, J.P., 1977. "The Monetary Appreciation of Paintings". The Journal of Political Economy, vol.85-5. THROSBY, D., 2001. Economics and Culture (New York: Cambridge University Press) Web Sites: www.artprice.com --------------------------------------------------------------------- [1] SAVAGE, G., 1969. The Market in Art (Kent: Tonbridge printers) p.13.

Maryland Science Assessments :: Essays Papers

Maryland Science Assessments Within the discipline of science there are facts, principles, skills, and processes of five classified standards: earth/space, biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental science. In the State of Maryland, the main assessment tool is the MSPAP (Maryland State Performance Assessment Program). Also, an individual teacher has to do assessment of his/her students throughout the school year. A teacher needs to know what to assess and how. Through an interview, a teacher of Bodkin Elementary has given her opinion about the state assessment test MSPAP. Maryland State has one major test that brings up many opinions of professionals in the education field. With state and classroom assessments Maryland’s intention is to measure their school improvement within the discipline of science as well as mathematics, reading, writing, language usage, and social studies. The Maryland State Performance Assessment Program (MSPAP) is "an assessment or testing program whose primary purpose is to provide information that can be used to improve instruction in schools"(MSDE, 1999). Students in third, fifth, and eighth grades take the MSPAP assessment each May. The assessment was created to be able to test the how well the students could solve problems both individually and with others, to see if they can use background knowledge to solve real world problems and to see if students can use knowledge from one subject into another. Students normally work in groups to complete the task they are given for each subject. Students are required to write extensively unlike other forms of assessment or testing where students fill out bubble forms such as scantron. The MSPAP assessment takes five days with 105 minutes spent each day on the assessment. Sample problems are given to teachers to help their students prepare for they type of activities and writing assignments they will be given on the task. One example task for eighth grade science students is to look at scientific data on the solar system and to write at least three questions that they can ask after looking at the data(Carr, 2000). After students have asked the questions they then need to "describe three repeating patterns of astronomical change that occur in the sky above us"(Carr, 2000) The MSPAP was created in May, 1990 by many teachers and administrators after the State Board of Education came up with learning goals that they wanted to reach by the year 2000. The MSPAP has six sections: reading, writing, language use, mathematics, science, and social studies.

Ends, Ways and Means of Us Policy Towards North Korea Essay

â€Å"Ends are defined as the strategic outcomes or the end states desired. Ways are defined as the methods, tactics and procedures, practices, and strategies to achieve the ends. Means are defined as the resources required to achieve the ends, such as troops, weapons systems, money, political will and time. † MG Dennis J. Laich, USAR, Retired President Obama stated in the 2010 National Security Strategy that his administration â€Å"has no greater responsibility than the safety and security of the American people† (Obama, 2010, 4). In order to successfully safeguard and secure America, the administration must have clear foreign policy delineating how it will deal with the various states across the globe that pose potential threats to America. One of these is North Korea. The US policy ends this essay will focus on are denuclearization and the improvement of North Korea’s human rights record. The Obama Administration inherited a difficult situation with regard to North Korea’s continued attempts to advance its nuclear weapons program. The ends of US policy regarding North Korea’s nuclear weapons program is successful denuclearization of the Korean peninsula (Obama, 2010, 23). President Obama stated in his 2010 National Security Strategy, â€Å"if they [North Korea] ignore their international obligations, we will pursue multiple means to increase their isolation and bring them into compliance† (Ibid, 24). During his first term, President Obama chose to continue the Bush Administration’s policy of direct, bilateral diplomacy in effort to reduce North Korea’s nuclear threat (Klingner, 2009, 1). This effort included enforcement of existing sanctions, expansion of the Proliferation Security Initiative and demanding North Korean compliance with U. N. Security Council resolutions regarding the dissolution of Pyongyang’s nuclear program (Ibid). The US continues to use U. N. sanctions and diplomatic effort to reduce the nuclear threat North Korea presents. However, US policy does not focus solely on the denuclearization of North Korea. It also addresses other issues North Korea brings to the international stage such as human rights violations posed on the international front as well. Non-proliferation of nuclear weapons is usually considered the main focus of US policy towards North Korea; however, issues such as North Korea’s illicit activities and human rights violations are also of concern (Chanlett-Avery, 2011). The strategy of the Obama Administration is to influence North Korea to improve its human rights record through international pressure and direct support via the North Korean Human Rights Act (Ibid, 13). The North Korean Human Rights Act (NKHRA) authorizes funds to support human rights efforts in North Korea and improve the flow of information to and from the country. It also requires the President to appoint a Special Envoy on human rights in North Korea. Additionally, it allows for North Koreans to apply for asylum in the United States (Ibid, 14). As of 2011, relatively few North Korean refugees live in the US, but the program continues to â€Å"facilitate the unhindered dissemination of information in North Korea† through Korean language radio broadcasts funded through the NKHRA’s $2M annual budget (Ibid). The ways and means of US policy towards North Korea require dedication, diligence and comprehensive confrontation using a combination of all instruments of national power (Ibid, 9). Nuclear proliferation may be the main issue between the US and North Korea, but it is not the only one. The US is also engaged with North Korea in effort to improve Pyongyang’s human rights record and improve the way the North Korean government treats its populace. US policy toward North Korea has proven to be similar to dealing with an obstinate, attention seeking child and will require patience and willingness to use all instruments of power should there be no other alternative.

Financial Analysis of Competition Bikes Essay

Financial Analysis of Competition Bikes Introduction   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In financial analysis a complete assessment of a business organization covering competitiveness, profitability, liquidity and stability concerns. Financial analysis of a business is undertaken by reviewing the business’ financial statements. Summarized financial statement reports are frequently presented to executives and top managers for setting up business goals as well as making decisions. Analysis of the financial statements of Competition Bikes demand evaluation of the internal operation focusing on vertical, horizontal, ratio and trend analyses and the working capital. These evaluations communicate profit margins enabling projection of budgets and restraining sales and costs potential. Annual comparison of production performance subject to profit versus overhead helps in forecasting of budgets for production ingredients on a monthly basis (Shim, J. and Siegel, J. 2009). Competition Bikes Horizontal Analysis   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   This is the examination of percentage changes in comparative statements of a business. In this case, it is the evaluation of Competition Bike’s comparative statements between the year 6 and 7 as well as 7 and 8. The horizontal analysis chart helps in indicating the value of accounts payable differential in year 6 and 7 as well as year 7 and year 8. The company’s net sales soared up by 33.3% between year 6 and 7 at $1,495,000. However, net sales differential between year 7 and 8 was a negative implying that sales decreased by 15% at $897,000. Therefore, it is essential that Competition Bikes increases annual sales to reap higher profits. The value of gross profit registered was a negative figure of $266,600 equivalent to 16.3% decrease. Interestingly, the company registered a 37.5% gross profits increase between year 6 and 7 at $447,000.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The time period between purchasing of raw materials, manufacturing and distribution of goods is referred to as the operating cycle. The net period in collection of receipts from payments and sales is the cash conversion cycle for the different ingredients consumed and produced by Competition Bikes. The company witnessed a decrease in the operating cycle between years 6 and 7 from 50.52 to 48.00 days. This is explained by the increased growth of sales relative to the inventories growth rate. The cash conversion period between year 6 and 8 was relatively negative. This is because Competition Bikes Inc has a high liquidity owing to the short receivables period supplemented by a lengthy payable deferral period. It is indicative of the efficient management of the company’s resources.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The aggregate of administrative and general expenses between year 6 and 7 increased at $156,440 equivalent to 20.4% increase. However, the increase between year 7 and 8 was significantly lower at $11,004 equivalent to 1.2% increase. Still, Competition Bikes Inc operating income between year 6 and 7 increased at $191,820 equivalent to 154.6% increase. However, this parameter decreased at $318,392 equivalent to 61.9% decrease. Higher profits were registered between year 6 and 7 relative to year 7 and 8 which registered a dcrease in profits.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In addition, the company’s cash account differential between 6 and 7 was a decrease of $142,451 equivalent to 54.6%. However, this differential increased between year 7 and 8 at $326,475 equivalent to 275.4%. The net liabilities difference between year 6 and 7 was $128,620 equal to 1.2% increase. According to horizontal analysis, the total liabilities differential from year 6 to 8 was a decrease at $35,500 or 1.9% (Brigham, E. and Houston, J. 2007).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Still, Competition Bike’s common equity differential between year 6 and 7 was a 2.9% increase equating to $119,914 increase. Horizontal analysis of the same parameter indicates a fall between year 7 and 8 equal to $2,400 or 0.1% decrease. Since year 7 and 8 registered a lesser loss comparative to the gain between years 6 and 7, Competition Bikes Inc. broke even in the former years from the aggregate of year 6 and year 7. Competition Bikes Inc Vertical Analysis   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In vertical analysis, an exploration of a company’s statement of financial position is considered to validate each element comparative to the total assets as a percentage. For the income statement, vertical analysis involves exploration of the various variables subject to total sales. This analysis helps in evaluation of the financial performance of Competition Bikes Inc with time. The tabulation below indicates the Vertical Analysis of the Competition Bikes Inc’s Balance Sheet Account elements Year 6 Total assets ($4,199,303) Year 7 Total assets ($4,319,217) Year 8 Total assets ($4,316,817) Notes and accounts Payable 1.6% 4.5% 6.1% Accrued Salaries and other expenses 0.4% 0.3% 0.3% Accrued Expenses 0.5% 0.6% 0.6% Mortgage 42.9% 39.4% 37.1% Long term Liabilities 2.1% 2.0% 1.9% Stockholders Equity 52.5% 53.3% 54.1%   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Competition Bikes Inc Vertical Analysis assesses the liabilities, equities and assets of the company. Overall, the operating expenses fluctuated in little figures indicate a strong internal control policy. Therefore, there was little depreciation on the company subject to the operating sales versus costs. The proportion of liabilities decreased over the three years indicating an improved ability in Competition Bikes Inc to settle debts. The proportion of common equity relative to debts increased over the period signifying a growth in the net capital of the company. Competition Bikes Trend Analysis   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   This is the evaluation of the financial performance of a business over time. Firstly, Competition Bikes Inc balance sheet figures increased tremendously between years 6 and 8. This signifies growth and expansion trend in Competition Bikes. On average, the company grew at 3.3% which is a sustainable growth rate. Over the three years, the sales dropped significantly and especially between year 7 and 8. Nonetheless, the profit margin was relatively strong due to little fluctuations in overhead costs such as materials, productions costs and carrier fees. Therefore, it is potentially possible that the future sales in years 9, 10 and 11 high provided the company maintains the current growth and expansion rate.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Based on trend analysis, it is anticipated that the company’s sales in future will remain strong. This inspires the shareholder to invest more in the company over the next three years. Profits are anticipated to increase at 103.2%, 107.6% and 111.8% over the next three years respectively. In additional, further prodding of the company’s financial statements indicates a declining rate in sales growth rate. For instance, the company sales increase at 8.65% between year 6 and 7 as well as 9.85% between year 7 and year 8. Nonetheless, the significantly small sales growth rate is associative to higher boost in net income which rose by 12.82% and 14.46% in year 7 and 8 respectively. Competition Bikes Ratio Analysis   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   It is the determination of the past years financial performance relative to other companies ratios, trends as well as those of the company/business under review. These ratios include liquidity, profitability and efficiency ratios.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Liquidity ratios extracted from the statement of financial position determine the ability of the business to pay its debts at and as when they fall due. The fractions are significantly important in computation of the business ability to meet its short term and long term financial obligations and goals. Quick ratio is computed by dividing quick assets by current liabilities. The company registered a low quick ration of 3.11% and 3.21% for years 8 and 7 respectively. This is because as a motor bike retailer, the company must hold high levels of inventory meaning that most of the working capital ends up tied. Considering that the company enjoys a small inventory turnover ratio, this is not a worrying level.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Efficiency ratios include the inventory turnover ratio and the average collection period. The former is obtained by dividing total sales by total inventory. This ratio indicates the efficiency and the rapidity with which the company manages to sell its bikes. In year 7 and 8, the company’s inventory turnover fell from 46.7 to 45.9 indicating decrease strength in paying off debts. The latter ratio is the anticipated period of cashing owed receivables from clients. Competition Bikes Inc current average collection period is 102.6 days. It is not an ideal duration because it implies delayed conversion of receivables into cash for clearing debts and expenses.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Profitability ratios include return on assets and gross profit margin. The former ratio assesses the aptitude of Competition Bikes to raise revenue from its assets. The company’s return on asset parameter in year 7 and 8 was 4.52 and 4.25 respectively. The gross profit margin at the same period was 27.4% and 27% respectively. However, this was a 4.7% drop from the previous 5.3%. The fall in profits translates to poor operations and hence the need to evaluate the company’s strategies. Competition Bikes Working Capital   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   This is the difference between the current assets and the current liabilities. It is important to a business because it determines the available resources for increasing production, hiring additional staff, merging and buying out other companies as well as investing in expansion projects. The company had a working capital of $2,123,000 and $1,768,000 in year 7 and 6 respectively. The increased values in working capital indicate an advanced working capital over the three years. Internal Control Strengths and Weaknesses   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   These are predominant in the accounts departments. The company has adequate resources to finance its operations now and into the future. This is because all activities are adequately covered financially. Besides, the company boasts a readily available clientele with a potential to attract additional clients. The company maintains a check and balance system to control sales, purchase and cash management translates to a strong internal control system.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Corrective action in weaknesses lists changes to be made to enhance completion of targets and achieving of total significance in a business. The operations and management for implementation are executed by the management to ensure resolution of identified weaknesses. When the firms adopts a tracking system, execution of identified strategies top resolve the deficiencies is easily executed. Corrective actions were installed to improve production and purchasing deficiencies. This is to help in constant inquiry as well as cooperation among various departments in the business. Risks   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Businesses face constant risks and threats and therefore, it is important to identify, address and mitigate the risks. Competition Bikes is susceptible to numerous risks such as increased competition resonating to low profit margins. Therefore, the company must strategize on maintaining and attracting additional clients. Still, the internal controls are a threat to the company. Impromptu competition between purchasing unit and the accounting department may result to delay in payment of invoices. Proper communication lines must be set within the company to address broken communication. Compliance   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Competition Bikes Inc compliance with Sarbanes-Oxley is indicative of the stringent monitoring controls that the company has installed for internal auditing purposes. This assures stakeholders of the efficient management of the company as well as in compliance with different regulatory framework. Compliance entails provision of an admirable working framework such as motivation of employees, retention of skilled labor and recycling of products. Recommendation   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Considering the past performance of the company, it is recommended that the firm must maintain a sound internal control system. This will report deficiencies such as weaknesses in financial reporting. It will help in securing a lock tight financial recording and documentation. Closer monitoring and evaluation of the excess raw materials and manufacturing surpluses will be maintained in reasonable amounts reducing overspending and potential theft. References Bateman, T. S., & Snell, S. (2013). M: Management. New York, NY.: McGraw-Hill Companies. Internal Control Systems. (2011, July 4). Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Tread way Commission (COSO). Retrieved December 12, 2013, from http://www.coso.org/documents/COSO_ERM_ExecutiveSummary.pdf.Kieso, D. E., & Weygandt, J. J. (2012). Intermediate accounting (9th ed.). New York: Wiley. Shim, J. K., & Siegel, J. G. (2012). Schaum’s outline of financial management (2nd ed.). New York: McGraw-Hill. Source document