Internal Audit Example of Educational Institution

Internal Audit Example of Educational Institution Internal Auditing – Cass Business School Question 1 Control Environment The attitude and actions of the board and management regarding the significance of control within the organization. The control environment provides the discipline and structure for the achievement of the primary objectives of the system of internal control. List and discuss the methods that the management of Cass Business School might use to encourage and develop an effective control environment. Cass Business School is one of the leading schools for business research in London. Being in a thriving cosmopolitan and commercial business centre, the school seems to have a strategic and business advantage and can test its theoretical approaches against practical realities. The school focuses on a rigorous research practice combined with a productive and dynamic relationship with business groups and academic organisations (Cass report 2005). In areas of finance, Cass Business School is known for its contributions to financial markets, money and banking, real estate finance, investment and risk management, strategy, innovation and entrepreneurship, Governance and pay, e-business, international business, voluntary sector management, pensions, life insurance, health insurance, reliability and dependability of computer based systems. In this discussion, we highlight the importance of effective internal control that can provide discipline and structure for achievement of primary objectives within the organisation. The control environment of an organisation includes the following elements: Organizational structure. Managements philosophy and operating style. Integrity and ethical values. Assignment of authority and responsibility. Human resource policies and practices. Competence of personnel. The success of an organisation in developing an effective management structure depends largely on its mission, aims and objectives. The mission of the school is to carry out multidisciplinary research in corporate governance issues which can be applicable at National, European and Global levels. The set of research objectives translated into research themes address specific dimensions of corporate governance process. Corporate governance and organisational performance are closely associated as appointment of high level officials defining internal control actually has an impact on the market performance of a company. The operating style and key activities of the management of the school include: Conducting funded research to produce scholarly publications and reports for policy makers and for practitioners; recruiting post graduates and research students to research on various research themes in management; organising workshops and conferences to promote and disseminate research findings within the school’s RD department; and also contributing to public debates on business strategies and Corporate Governance to improve the image and reputation of the school’s research faculties. As a strategic plan of infrastructure development, the school replaced all previous methods of assessment of students by building a new central computerised database for IT management, and new infrastructure. Organisational structure and assignment of responsibility and authority to board members is a mechanism of internal control and appointment of executive and non-executive directors tend to have a direct impact on the market as the main hypothesis in this case is that since appointments are driven by the financial situation of the company, it is expected that market reactions would be positive to the appointment of non-executive directors to the board and negative for executive directors (Cass report, 2005). The market valuation of appointment of board members defining the control environment is an essential measure of governance and the balance scorecard gives a detailed picture of the performance of a particular company and its use in improving corporate and internal control environment of an organisation. For developing an effective control environment, a close knit board with a clear strategic approach can be recommended. Question 2 The chief audit executive should effectively manage the internal audit activity to ensure it adds value to the organization. (Standard 2000) Critically discuss the potential benefits that internal auditing might bring to Cass Business School. You should consider both financial and non-financial benefits in your answer. Internal auditing has emerged as a distinct profession with its own philosophy, principles and practice. Managerial communities without internal audit systems also lack a proper operating control system (Beale and Bradford, 1993). To minimise work errors, impropriety as business organisations and to audit work omissions, internal auditing is necessary and standards for professional Practice of Internal Auditing have been established along with a code of ethics and statement of responsibilities for internal auditors. The chief audit executive determines the course of an audit system in an organisation. The role of internal and external auditing in serving shareholders and board of directors in different communities has been highlighted in mergers and acquisitions as also the potential role of internal auditors in strategic management (Melville, 2003). There are significant changes in the roles and mission of external and internal auditors and in their activities in consultancy, risk management and governance to investigate the contributions of audit to organisations and stakeholders. The role of the external audit firms, including providing tax advice to clients as well as research into the implications of legislation and regulations are also important strategic considerations. Senior security management standards and effective controlling of their IT infrastructure are issues within IT governance and drawing up a critical infrastructure. Research concerning internal audit results has to consider whether these results have any predictive value relative to actual company outcomes. In this context the internal auditor’s role in assessing and contributing to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and sustainability are one of the key issues for senior management. The focus of internal auditing has been redefined to address consultative, risk and assurance activities. The need for further research in these areas to evaluate actual and potential role of internal audit can be emphasised to understand its potential benefits (Ruskin and Estes, 1984). The financial benefits of internal auditing for Cass Business School are increased contributions to stakeholders and directors and improved analysis of mergers and acquisitions. The non-financial benefits include risk management analysis, corporate governance reports, predicting performance outcomes and effective control of IT and strategic management systems. Question 3 The internal audit activity should assist the organization by identifying and evaluating significant exposures to risk and contributing to the improvement of risk management and control systems. (Standard 2110) List and describe the key risks in Cass Business Schools financial and non-financial systems. In its report on corporate governance and corporate performance, Cass Business School emphasised the linkages of governance and performance and examined the role of the board of directors in mitigating firms’ agency costs and also in creating shareholder value. The hypothesis put forward was that a large proportion of non-executive directors and chairman and CEO will over-perform in terms of rates of return and stock returns whereas companies with boards dominated by insiders will tend to under-perform. Internal and external control mechanisms such as managerial ownership, bondholders, block ownership and market for corporate control have to be taken into consideration while measuring corporate performance and this is mainly reflected in annual reports of companies. Other factors of corporate governance are important as are identification of the risks, roles and responsibilities of governance (Helliar et al, 2000). Risk management is at the centre of decision making processes in organisations at all levels and research into the different ways of assessing, managing and reporting risks within the organisations and reporting risks to outside stakeholders for achieving benefits is important within the context of management and board responsibilities. Hallikas et al (2002) provide a conceptual framework for risk analysis in networking for a company and note that to analyse and assess the risks associated with networking, either internal audit or computer aided cause and effect analysis can be used as tools for analysis of risks. Considering these factors, in the study of Cass Business School the key risks in financial and non-financial systems seem to be High and increasing tuition fees, increased competition from other schools, legal actions, and internal conflicts between members. However there is a risk management methodology and the Risk Management University Council has agreed to this risk management process. For several years the University has scored the relevant risks for each risk management strategy as to impact and likelihood using a defined scale. The control environment around the high-scoring risks has been reviewed. Question 4 Based on the results of the risk assessment, the internal audit activity should evaluate the adequacy and effectiveness of controls encompassing the organizations governance, operations, and information systems. These include: Reliability and integrity of financial and operational information. Effectiveness and efficiency of operations. Safeguarding of assets. Compliance with laws, regulations, and contracts. (Standard 2120.A1) For each risk identified in Question 3, identify the potential impact of control weaknesses and recommend appropriate controls that might reduce the impact of the threat. Give reasons for your recommendations. Within the Cass Business school management system, the annual report states that risk management Council has agreed to risk management methodology and processes and risks of the University are defined in the methodology. The University has reviewed its corporate risk register and has consolidated risks that have a high impact and likelihood score and has also reviewed the control environment for high scoring risks. The university council receives regular reports on progress of risk management implementation and within each school a risk register exists with each risk scored against a defined scale. There are future School plans to integrate risk reviews in the University’s general management and planning process. Bainbridge and Paul (1986) have effectively related control objectives with internal audit systems. In case of ineffective internal auditing, with unreliable financial information and flaws in accounting, complete transparency of financial data might help to overcome the weaknesses considerably. In case of inefficiency of operations and control, a strong project management approach and board internal control is suggested. The measurement and appraisal of intangible assets, especially human capital as a key factor of wealth creation is a key objective for improving organisational effectiveness. Safeguarding of company or organisational assets is possible through stakeholder or director support as well as general corporate performance and in this case, the overall annual performance of the school which is required to show financial profits. Compliance with laws and regulations can improve credibility and appropriate company objectives and codes of ethics and practice as well as strict management guidelines should be put forward. Bibliography Relating audit and internal control objectives: A missing step in specifying compliance tests Journal of Accounting Education, Volume 4, Issue 2, Autumn 1986, Pages 63-74 D. Raymond Bainbridge, John W. Paul The effects of information order and hypothesis-testing strategies on auditors judgments Accounting, Organizations and Society, Volume 14, Issues 5-6, 1989, Pages 471-479 Jane L. Butt, Terry L. Campbell Chan, K. C.; Chen, C. R.; Steiner, T. L. Production in Finance Literature, Institutional Reputation, and Labor Mobility in Academia: A Global Perspective, Financial Management, (2002) 31(4) pp131-156 Risk analysis and assessment in network environments: A dyadic case study International Journal of Production Economics, Volume 78, Issue 1, 1 July 2002, Pages 45-55 Jukka Hallikas, Veli-Matti Virolainen and Markku Tuominen Internalization versus externalization of the internal audit function: an examination of professional and organizational imperatives Accounting,Organizations and Society, Volume 26, Issues 7-8, October-November 2001, Pages 617-641 Larry Rittenberg and Mark A. Covaleski Managing the internal audit A practical handbook, : by Ian Beale and Roy H Bradford (1993), Kogan Page Computer Law Security Report, Volume 9, Issue 4, July-August 1993, Page 154 Internal vs. external IT audits — or — Mapping out a war zone? Computers Security, Volume 14, Issue 5, 1995, Pages 419-420 Doc Farmer and S. G. Warburg Internal Audits Metal Finishing, Volume 98, Issue 11, November 2000, Pages 73-78 Leslie W. Flott Evidence of agency conflict among management, auditors, and the audit committee chair Journal of Accounting and Public Policy, Volume 9, Issue 4, Winter 1990, Pages 271-292 Susan Haka and Peter Chalos UK AUDITORS PERCEPTIONS OF INHERENT RISK, The British Accounting Review, Volume 28, Issue 1, March 1996, Pages 45-72 CHRISTINE HELLIAR, BOB LYON, GARY S. MONROE, JULIANA NG and DAVID R. WOODLIFF Melville, R., (2003)  The contribution of internal audit to corporate strategy.  International Journal of Auditing Volume 7Issue 3Page 209 November 2003 M. Page and L. Spira, The Turnbull Report, Internal Control and Risk Management: The Developing Role of Internal Audit, The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland, Edinburgh (2004) The project management audit: Its role and conduct Engineering Management International, Volume 2, Issue 4, July 1984, Pages 279-286 Arnold M. Ruskin, W. Eugene Estes Sawyer, Lawrence B.  Sawyer’s internal auditing: the practice of†¦enlarged/Lawrence B. Sawyer, assited by Glenn.E. Sumners  3rd edition, retitled, rev and enl Altamonte Springs, Fla: Institute of Internal Auditors, 1988   Sawyer, Lawrence B.  Elements of management oriented auditing   Institute of Internal Auditors Inc 1983 Sawyer, Lawrence B.  The practice of modern internal auditing / Lawrence B.Sawyer  2nd ed. Rev. and enl Altamonte Springs, Fla: Institute of Internal Auditors, 1981  www.cass.city.uk

Teaching Computer Ethics in the Classroom :: essays research papers

Teaching Computer Ethics in the Classroom The computer is considered one of the most technological advances of the twentieth century. As the general public becomes increasingly ‘computer literate,' the gap between technology and peoples' intellect notably shrinks. The readily available computers, software, and assorted output devices have enlightened many but, in turn, have increased the using of computers for unethical activities, privacy invasion and illegal purposes. Legal sanctions against abusive use of computers are a reactive approach. A proactive approach is to teach students about computer ethics in classrooms. An effective teaching method are the presentation of ethical scenarios. It is anticipated that through this method, students will personalize the need for developing ethical standards of behavior. The ultimate goal is for students, if necessary, to change their set of personal beliefs to include ethics. INTRODUCTION The computer is considered one of the most important technological advances of the twentieth century. Security and privacy issues have been in existence long before the computer became a vital component of organizations' operations. Nevertheless, the operating features of a computer make it a double-edged sword. Computer technologies with reliable error detection and recording capabilities, permit the invasion of a supposedly secure environment to occur on a grand scale and go undetected. Furthermore, computer and communications technology permit the invasion of a persons' privacy and likewise go undetected. Two forces threaten privacy: one, the growth of information technology with its enhanced capacity for surveillance, communication, computation, storage and retrieval and two, the more insidious threat, the increased value of information in decision making. Information has become more vital in the competitive environment, thus, decision makers covet it even if it viol! ates another's privacy. Violation of ones personal privacy, via computers, may in part be due to the incomplete understanding of responsibility on the part of those involved. Is it a management or a technical concern? Ethical standards that evolved over the history of Western civilization deal with interpersonal relationships. What is right or wrong? What one should do and not do when dealing with other people. Ethical behavior in a business environment has not been as clearly defined. When businesses were small and the property of a few individuals, traditional ethical standards were applied to meet different situations. However, as businesses became larger, the interpersonal ethical relations did not provide any clear behavioral guidelines. Likewise, the principles of ethical relationships were even less pertinent to the corporate environments. Teaching Computer Ethics in the Classroom :: essays research papers Teaching Computer Ethics in the Classroom The computer is considered one of the most technological advances of the twentieth century. As the general public becomes increasingly ‘computer literate,' the gap between technology and peoples' intellect notably shrinks. The readily available computers, software, and assorted output devices have enlightened many but, in turn, have increased the using of computers for unethical activities, privacy invasion and illegal purposes. Legal sanctions against abusive use of computers are a reactive approach. A proactive approach is to teach students about computer ethics in classrooms. An effective teaching method are the presentation of ethical scenarios. It is anticipated that through this method, students will personalize the need for developing ethical standards of behavior. The ultimate goal is for students, if necessary, to change their set of personal beliefs to include ethics. INTRODUCTION The computer is considered one of the most important technological advances of the twentieth century. Security and privacy issues have been in existence long before the computer became a vital component of organizations' operations. Nevertheless, the operating features of a computer make it a double-edged sword. Computer technologies with reliable error detection and recording capabilities, permit the invasion of a supposedly secure environment to occur on a grand scale and go undetected. Furthermore, computer and communications technology permit the invasion of a persons' privacy and likewise go undetected. Two forces threaten privacy: one, the growth of information technology with its enhanced capacity for surveillance, communication, computation, storage and retrieval and two, the more insidious threat, the increased value of information in decision making. Information has become more vital in the competitive environment, thus, decision makers covet it even if it viol! ates another's privacy. Violation of ones personal privacy, via computers, may in part be due to the incomplete understanding of responsibility on the part of those involved. Is it a management or a technical concern? Ethical standards that evolved over the history of Western civilization deal with interpersonal relationships. What is right or wrong? What one should do and not do when dealing with other people. Ethical behavior in a business environment has not been as clearly defined. When businesses were small and the property of a few individuals, traditional ethical standards were applied to meet different situations. However, as businesses became larger, the interpersonal ethical relations did not provide any clear behavioral guidelines. Likewise, the principles of ethical relationships were even less pertinent to the corporate environments.

Children and Advertising Essay

Children are the most vulnerable to advertising. They are the most susceptible because their minds are immature and are unable to distinguish good advertising versus bad advertising. Television commercials have a huge impact on how it affects children. Commercials are the biggest form of advertisement geared toward children. â€Å"Children between the ages of two and eleven view well over 20,000 television commercials yearly, and that breaks down to 150 to 200 hours† (MediaFamily, 1998). Television advertisements geared towards children have the biggest market by far. â€Å"The advertising market in 1997 showed that children under twelve years of age spent well over twenty-four million dollars of their own money on products they saw on television† (Kanner & Kasser, 2000). Kanner and Kasser go on to say that advertisers have even hired psychologists as consultants to help the advertisers come up with fine-tuned commercials that attract children (2000). In 1999, a group of psychologists wrote to the American Psychological Association asking them to restrict the use of psychological research by advertisers to help sell their products to children. This letter also called for, â€Å"an ongoing campaign to probe, review and confront the use of psychological research in advertising and marketing to children† (Hays 1999). â€Å"Some child advertisers boldly admit that the commercials they use exploit children and create conflicts within the family† (Kanner & Kasser, 2000). Kanner and Kasser also say that, advertisers work very hard to increase their products â€Å"nag factor†. This term often refers to how often children pressure their parents to buy the item they saw advertised on television (2000). The effects on advertising to children can be very noticeable. There have been numerous studies done that document that â€Å"children under eight years old are  unable to understand the intent of advertisements developmentally, therefore  they accept the advertising claims as true† (Shelov, S., et. al., 1995). â€Å"The American Academy of Pediatrics continues to say that children under the age of eight cannot distinguish commercial advertisements from regular television programming. In addition, advertisers have become sneaky about the way they convey their product† (Shelov, S., et. al., 1995). For example, when the announcer says, â€Å"some assembly required† for a toy, it is at the end of the commercial and the announcer speaks very quickly. Sometimes, the disclaimers are written in small print and shown at the end of the commercial, and are not understood by most young children. Excessive television viewing often times causes higher obesity rates among children. Children often see foods that are high in fat and calories advertised on television and end up consuming too much of these foods. The American Academy of Pediatrics says that the bombardment of advertising for food and toys to children may result in the increased number of conflicts between parents and children. The American Academy of Pediatrics believes that, â€Å"advertising directed toward children is inherently deceptive and exploits children under eight years of age† (Shelov, S., et. al., 1995). Cigarette advertisements seen in magazines or billboards are an area that is in need of change. â€Å"In 1988, teenagers alone spent well over $1.26 billions on cigarettes and smokeless tobacco† (Shelov, S., et. al., 1995). This number has rose significantly since 1988, and continues to rise rapidly. Although there is an advertisement ban of cigarettes on television, logos and billboards are prominent in televised sports. This makes television advertising of cigarettes very prominent. There were two studies down in the early 1990s on cigarette advertisements. This study looked at how familiar children were with the Old Joe Camel logo on Camel cigarettes. â€Å"These studied revealed that nearly one third of three-year-old children, and almost all of the children over the age of six could identify the Joe Camel logo. By the age of six,  the Joe Camel logo was as familiar to children as Mickey Mouse† (Shelov, S., et. al., 1995). The advertising campaign for Camel cigare ttes was more  effective among children and adolescents than it was among adults. â€Å"In 2000, a study showed that on average, eighty-two percent of children in the United States see the numerous magazine advertisements for cigarettes† (Siegel, 2001). Alcohol advertisements on television are another touchy area. â€Å"American children view nearly 2000 beer and wine commercials every year on television and these ads specifically target young people by showing the â€Å"advantages† of drinking† (Shelov, S., et. al., 1995). There is a public health interest in trying to protect children from alcohol and cigarette advertisements. â€Å"The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends banning all tobacco and alcohol advertisements in the media, but some researchers believe that counter-advertising advertisements are more effective† (Shelov, S. et. al, 1995). Recently though, there have been counter-advertising campaigns aimed reducing the number of young people who smoke. In 2001, the â€Å"I Decide† campaign started airing on television. â€Å"This anti-smoking campaign, sponsored by the Illinois Department of Public Health, is the current anti-smoking campaign in Illinois. The â€Å"I Decide† advertisement aired on local ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, and the WB networks in Winnebago, Macon, Champaign, Tazewell, Sangamon, Peoria, and McLean counties. I Decide advertisements also run on the following cable networks, ESPN, MTV, BET, Comedy Central, and TBS† (Illinois Department of Health, 2002). Alcohol and cigarette advertisements are still around and promote the wrong message to children. The effects on advertising to children can be very evident. There are laws and organizations out there to help protect children from advertisers. Advertising is a powerful tool in American culture today; it exists solely to sell  products and services. Advertising to children has not always been legal. ‘In 1750 BC, the Code of Hammurabi made it a crime to sell anything to a child without obtaining consent† (Shelov, S. et. al, 1995). Things in the advertising industry have changed significantly since then. In 1978, Michael Pertschuk, the chairman of the Federal Trade Commission, tried to restrict television advertisements aimed at children under thirteen. Due to a  ferocious lobbying campaign, his proposal did not pass (Kanner & Kasser, 2000). In the last fifteen years or so, there have been a few laws passed about advertising to children on television. â€Å"The Children’s Television Act of 1990 mandated that all broadcasters must show either educational or instructional children’s programming in order to renew their broadcasting license. This act also limits commercial time to ten and a half minutes per hour on weekends, and twelve minutes per hour on weekdays† (Shelov, S. et. al, 1995). Shelov and others continue on to say that, the main problem with this law is that television stations can cite public service announcements to fulfill the Children’s Television Act. They also said that this Act also established the Children’s Television Endowment Fund, which encourages the development of new educational programming for children (1995). There is currently an organization called the Children’s Advertising Review Unit (CARU) that is part of the Council of Better Business Bureaus. CARU reviews advertising and any promotional materials directed at children in the media (Council of Better Business Bureau, 2000). The Council of the Better Business Bureau continues on to say that CARU’s main duties are to review and evaluate child-directed advertisements in all forms of media, and to review the online privacy practices if they affect children. â€Å"If the advertisements are inconsistent or misleading with CARU’s Self-Regulatory Guidelines for Children’s Advertising, they seek change through the voluntary cooperation of advertisers† (2000). They work closely with advertisers to promote educational messages to children that are consistent with the  Children’s Television Act of 1990. The CARU’s Self-Regulatory Guidelines for Children’s Advertising gives criteria for evaluating advertising that is child-directed. There continues to be many more organizations out there that help protect children from advertisements. Until advertisers stop targeting children, there will always be a need for organizations that help protect children from advertisemen ts. It seems to me that the best ways to protect children from what adults fear will harm them- alcohol, drugs or advertising, is to set an example by our own behavior. We can talk with them  and encourage them to talk about the subject. The effects of media are minimized when parents talk to children about them. Whether we like it or not media education begins at home. The Internet is also another medium where children are at risk. Numerous web sites feature advertising to children. † In fact, many web sites are set up exclusively for children, such as, Nickelodeon’s and Disney’s. A growing number of web sites are now eliciting personal information. Some even use incentives and gifts to get e-mail addresses or other personal info† (DeFalco 1996). There is a very important law that helps protect children on the Internet. In April 2000, the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998 (COPPA) took effect. â€Å"This Act says that if any personable identifiable information about a child under thirteen years of age is collected online, a privacy notice must be posted† (Federal Trade Commission, 2000). â€Å"Website operators must also get parental consent before collecting, using, or disclosing any personally identifiable information. In addition, this Act allows parents to review any personal identifiable information collected from their children. When the parents review their child’s personal information, they have the right to revoke their consent and ask that the information they collected about  their child is deleted from that website† (Federal Trade Commission, 2000). The Federal Trade Commission also says that site operators are required to list any third parties that the website operator gives information to, about a child. If the list of third parities changes, the website operator must have parental consent again (2000). The Center for Media Education (CME) is an organization that is dedicated to protecting children online by visiting websites to make sure that the COPPA rules are being enforced. CME is a national nonprofit organization, which dedicates itself to creating quality electronic media culture for children  and youth, for their families, and for the community. Their research focuses on the potential for children and youth in this rapidly evolving digital media age. â€Å"Over the years, CME has been the leading force in expanding both children’s educational television programming and fostering television and Internet safeguard for children and teens† (Center for Media Education, 2001). The Internet is an area that is growing rapidly, and is one area where children are the most vulnerable to advertising. Advertising to children also has many positive benefits, for both the marketers’ pocket and for the development of the child. â€Å"Kids are little human beings that need to grow up and learn valuable lessons, that throughout their lives they are going to want things that they can not have† (Fletcher and Phillips 1998). Also, in the media demanding society that we live in, learning how to decipher the truth of advertising messages is critical. Likewise, advertisers argue that parents still have ultimate control over household purchasing decisions. This presents an opportunity for children to learn to respect authority, which is another step critical to a child’s development. Additionally, advertising money helps pay for educational opportunities. â€Å"Without  advertising there would be a lot less toys and a lot less children’s programming such as Nickelodeon and the Cartoon Network† (Fletcher and Phillips 1998). Marketers are also using their advertising dollars to benefit education in other ways. â€Å"Cadbury, Pentax, C&A and Coca-Cola are advertising in textbooks and other learning materials such as wall charts† (Marshall, 1997). Due to under-funded school budgets, money may have not been otherwise available to pay for these supplementary educational materials. Advertising to children definitely has both positive and negative benefits that help and hinder the development of the child. Regardless of the effects  that marketers have on our youth, advertisements will continue. Mainly in part due to the high amount of dollars involved. New areas of the ethical debate will also continue to grow. Some of these new issues are the controversies that are arising from the exponential growth of the Internet and of global marketing. Both governmental agencies and parents need to be aware of this continuing debate as these new issues arise. Also, awareness needs to be developed on how these new issues affect children based on existing psychological research so that parents and the government can react in the best approach possible. The boundaries in media and advertising are rapidly changing. Young people will benefit more by learning to make intelligent media (and consumer) decisions than by attempts to limit their exposure to information that they will inevitably be exposed to regardless of the regulatory climate. Works Cited Center for Media Education. (2001). About the center for media education (CME). Retrieved March 20, 2002, from Http://www.cme.org. Council of Better Business Bureau. (2000). About the Children’s Advertising Review Unit (CARU). Retrieved January 30, 2002, from Http://www.caru.org/carusubpgs/aboutcarupg.asp. Federal Trade Commission. (2000). How to protect kids’ privacy online. Retrieved January 31, 2002, from Http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/pubs/online/kidsprivacy.htm. Fletcher, Winston and Phillips, Richard. (1998, May 29). â€Å"A children’s character for advertising; analysis of advertising which targets children.† Campaign, page 28. Hays, C.L. (1999, October 31). Group says ads manipulate children with psychology. New York Times, p. C6. Illinois Department of Health (2002). I decide. Retrieved March 20, 2002, from Http://www.idecide4me.com/html/campaign/schedule.asp. Kanner, A.D., & Kasser, T. (2000). Stuffing our kids: Should psychologists help advertisers manipulate children? Retrieved January 30, 2002, from http://www.commercialalert.org/ Marshall, Caroline. (1997, September) â€Å"Protect the parents; exploiting parents and children via advertising.† Management Today, Page 92. Mediafamily (1998). Children’s advertising and gender roles. Retrieved January 31, 2002, from Http://www.mediaandthefamily.org/research/fact/childgen.shtml. Mediascope (2000). Children, health, and advertising. Retrieved January 31, 2002, from Http://www.mediascope.org/pubs/ibriefs/cha.htm. Shelov, S., Bar-on, M., Beard, L., Hogan, M., Holroyd, J.H., Prentice, B., Sherry, S.N., & V. Strasburger. (1995). Children, adolescents, and advertising. American Academy of Pediatrics, 95(2), 295-297. Siegel, M. (2001). Tobacco ads still aimed at kids, experts advise stronger protection. Ca, 51(6), 324-326.

Wal-Mart Effects the Economy Essay - 2733 Words

Jim Lee Eng 101: Reames December 2, 2010 Wal-Mart Greatly Impacts the U.S. Economy Is Wal-Mart ruining the local businesses in America? Most professional business men can agree that Wal-Mart affects the United States economy in many different ways. Wal-Mart is an American public corporation that runs a chain of large, discount department stores. It is the worlds largest public corporation by revenue according to the 2008 Fortune Global 500. However this corporation has contraverisal issues about how they do their sales and the long term affects they put in the economy. Professionals will agree that Wal-Mart has hurt many community businesses as Wal-Mart open in areas around them. There have been common statistics for when a Wal-Mart†¦show more content†¦This will get this phenomenon brought up to the government level and will be talked about to high levels of authority. Goetz and Swaminathan are professionals that agree with my idea of local businesses being destroyed by Wal-Mart. Common views of professionals will agree that our economy is partly affected by the Wal-Mart effect. Neumark, Zhang, and Ciccarella (2005) will agree with Stone, Goetz, and Swaminathan by saying that â€Å"We estimate the effects of Wal-Mart stores on county-level employment and earnings, accounting for endogeneity of the location and timing of Wal-Mart openings that most likely biases the evidence against finding adverse effects of Wal-Mart stores† (Pg. 1). This is another common aspect of all these professionals with the idea that there is a negative effect behind the openings of Wal-Mart. All of the effects found are common as they reduce local businesses around new Wal-Marts. Neumark, Zhang, and Ciccarella (2005) quotes â€Å" Yet two of the most commonly-heard criticisms are that Wal-Mart eliminates more jobs than it creates for a community and that Wal-Mart’s wage levels pull down standards for all workers—not simply creating low-wage jobs, but driving do wn wages† (Pg. 1). 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Wal-Mart have the cheapest and lowest price that everyone can afford, so when the groceries are scarce at home most often Wal-Mart will be the nextRead MoreWal-Mart Phenomenon846 Words   |  4 PagesThe Wal-Mart Phenomenon Michael Hancock SOC200: Introduction to Sociology Gary Mayhew September 18, 2005 The Wal-Mart Phenomenon At Wal-Mart, everyday low prices is the motto. This slogan has helped create the largest business in world history with over $245 billion in revenues. It is actually three times the size of the No. 2 retailer in the world, Frances Carrefour. Nearly 138 million shoppers visit one of the 4,750 Wal-Mart retail stores in the United States each week. This trade giantRead MoreOutsourcing Of Wal Mart s Standards For Suppliers1303 Words   |  6 Pages Outsourcing in Wal-Mart? Many people may ask the same question: â€Å"Is Wal-Mart good for the economy?† or even â€Å"What are Wal-Mart’s standards for suppliers?† Wal-Mart is currently holding over 4,000 stores in the United Stated and maybe about more over 3,000 worldwide. As many people may know, Wal-Mart is and has been the largest retailer in the world for many years now. In the year of 2004 Wal-Mart had accounted for 6.5 percent of the retail sales or so that was documented. The well-being and wealthRead MoreThe Walmart Effect999 Words   |  4 PagesCritical Response: The Wal-Mart Effect: Poison or Antidote For Local Communities In The Wal-Mart effect: Poison or Antidote for Local Communities author Terry J. Fitzgerald attempts to submerge to the bottom of the issues people have with Wal-Mart. He does so by using results from Wal-Mart’s effect by entering non Wal-Mart counties economy’s. He uses the research to show that Wal-Mart doesn’t affect a community as much as most think. However, no matter what side of the issue you fallRead MoreIs Wal Mart Good For America?1287 Words   |  6 PagesAshley Casas English 1302.S02 Professor Bazaldua July 17, 2015 Is Wal-Mart Good For America? Many people may ask the same question. â€Å"Is Wal-Mart good for the economy?† or even â€Å"What are Wal-Mart’s standards for suppliers?† Wal-Mart currently has over 4,000 stores in the United Stated and about over 3,000 internationally. As many people may know, Wal-Mart is the largest retailer in the world. In the year of 2004 Wal-Mart had accounted for 6.5 percent of the retail sales. The wellbeing and prosperityRead MoreWal Mart : The High Cost Of Low Price1111 Words   |  5 PagesRobert Greenwald released Wal-Mart: The High Cost of Low Price, a motion picture that divulges how Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., a wholesale department store established by Sam Walton in 1962, absconded from its chasten inaugurations, to ultimately progress and develop into a principal vendor of America, and soon afterwards the vastest transnational conglomerate on the planet, once one grounds their statistics on revenue. However, Greenwald undoubtedly affirms that the policies Wal-Mart has emplaced have notRead MoreWal Mart : A Retail Conglomerate1271 Words   |  6 PagesWal-Mart: A Retail Conglomerate When Wal-Mart opened its doors in 1962, the Walton brothers had no clue on the magnitude the ‘one stop shop† chain would bring. For every company that is successful, there is a multitude of competitive strategies that are found at the core of their success. Such strategies virtually direct the company’s activities that will essentially carry over and contribute to their culture, performance, and other strategies that are implemented. Wal-Mart currently is the biggestRead MoreInternational Economics Paper : Wal Mart Essay1269 Words   |  6 PagesEconomics Paper Name Institution Outline 1. Introduction 2. President and Congress 3. The Federal Reserve 4. What motivates policymakers to stimulate or contract the economy? 5. Effect of Strength of other Economies on the Organization 6. Recommendations 7. Conclusion 8. References Introduction Wal-Mart is an American-based retailing company that has ventured into the international market with the aim of taking over some of the emerging markets across the globe. The companyRead MoreIs Wal Mart Good For America?1555 Words   |  7 Pagesof â€Å"Frontline: Is Wal-Mart Good for America?† Capitalism. It’s one of the greatest systems for our nation. It can be argued that capitalism is one of the ways that American’s maintain their freedom from the government. When does capitalism turn to monopolization? In the United States we have a free trade market. Even so, there are big corporations that seem to take over. Wal-Mart offers low prices, convenient locations, and access to various products in the same location. Wal-Mart makes money andRead MoreWal Mart : Business And Society914 Words   |  4 Pagesthe new customer. They have a power to sue or press the government if there is any unfair competition. Wal-Mart is committed to engaging with all of their stakeholders to create the most sustainable and responsible company. (â€Å"Business and Society: Stakeholders, Ethics†). As shown on Appendix A, in 2015, Wal-Mart’s revenue and profit increased 2% from the previous year, despite the current economy. The long-term debt in January 31, 2015 was 43,692 million dollars; compared to the 2014 Debt Lowest,

Birth order and personality traits - 600 Words

Birth order and personality traits Birth order and personality traits are very negotiable because the past and present life situation have a big role in how an individual will turn out, but if it’s an average Joe family then I wouldn’t be surprised if they were like what has been studied and concluded for obvious reasons. All of the traits one can have are unlimited depending on the type of parents, environment, and there intelect. These things can either be good or bad, still depending on the person and their thought process. I am logical and an evaluater (but not always choosing the logical solution even if there is a better way) which makes it easy to blend in with my surroundings and just â€Å"roll with it†( words from Birth Order:†¦show more content†¦So making the peace is all right with me. Suppresion of feelings was a big issue in the past because I would just bottle it up and explode, just completely freak out. It was intense, but like I said your traits really depend on the situation because I no longer have that problem. Since I no longer supress everything I can just chill and stay calm, care-free, and â€Å"roll with it† My agreements with the list of personality traits was moderatly accurate but still missing vital traits that I am excelled in. So this is my dissagrees and whatever else may be in here. I am â€Å"Super† creative with a capital â€Å"s† because I have a huge list of creative things I do and I will list all of them: I make lots music in all kinds of genres clear from techno to punk rock and I have many contacts that I work with and we make magic happen. I also am an artist and I find that I am excelling in this profession daily and not only that but I make all my art with a little aid and the rest with pure imagination. I can write pretty well, for example, what I’m doing now is pretty awesome if I do say so myself. From what almost all of the experts say I should feel left out in my family, but it’s the exact opposite because I get an equal amount of attention as everyone else and I don’t like much attention anyway so that may be a factor as well. My little brother does get a lot of attention†¦ in the wrong way. So I guess that contradicts what IShow MoreRelatedBirth Order Personality Traits Essay743 Words   |  3 PagesBirth Order Personality Traits It is easy to wonder how two children from the same family can turn out so differently, with completely different personalities and ways of solving problems. Recognizing the immense influence of family dynamics on young children can clear up a lot of the confusion. For example, eldest children look to their parents as role models for their behavior, and may become perfectionistic as parents expect them to act like little adults. MiddleRead MorePersonality Tags for Birth Order1325 Words   |  5 Pages Is there a â€Å"personality tag† for each child, depending on their birth order? Does the family size, or even the parents’ life styles, affect anything? Birth order is more than just an old wives’ tale about predicting the personalities of each child in every family. â€Å"Birth order, put in its proper context, is a key that can unlock personalities and give you a new perspective on human nature.† (First- born?,1). Every child of every family has a personality tag, just because of their spot on the immediateRead MoreHow Birth Order Affects Personality798 Words   |  4 PagesThis study was compelling as it was one of the first to compare birth rank stereotypes with reality. However, as the authors noted, do these stereotypes induce differences in parents expectations? (Herrera 150) Thus, the stereotype becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. To examine the premise, I would like to design a research experiment that addresses how birth order affects personality in families that do not adhere to the beliefs in stereotypes for their children. To accomplish this studyRead MoreThe Effect Of Birth Order On Personality848 Words   |  4 Pagesto whether birth order truly has an effect on the way we behave throughout our development. The article I’ve selected argues against the notion that these two correlate. The sample can be found at PNAS.org, otherwise known as the Proceedings of the National Academy of the United States of America. Titled, â€Å"Examining the Effects of Birth Order on Personality† three authors collectively come to this agreement that there are no lasting effects from birth order in long-term personality traits. The namesRead MoreRelationship Between Birth Order And Personality858 Words   |  4 PagesExploring the Relationship between Birth Order and Personality For many years, there’s been an ongoing debate as to whether birth order truly has an effect on the way we behave throughout our development. The article I’ve selected argues against the notion that these two correlate. The sample can be found at PNAS.org, otherwise known as the Proceedings of the National Academy of the United States of America. Titled, â€Å"Examining the Effects of Birth Order on Personality† three authors collectively comeRead MoreAlfred Adler s Birth Order1555 Words   |  7 PagesIntroduction Alfred Adler believed that one’s order of birth influenced their personality. Adler was one of the first of many psychologist to conjure up a theory about how one’s position , in terms of birth order effected a person’s personality traits. Adler made his discoveries by undergoing several studies that were used to help him identify patterns for particular within each specific birth order position, which included those who were only children and those who had siblings. Through his ownRead MoreBirth Order And Its Impact On Society1344 Words   |  6 Pagespeople is the role birth order has on their personalities and lives. Is birth order necessarily important? Does it honestly affect our personalities? Birth order has been controversial issue since biblical times for example Cain and Abel and Jacob and Esau. Psychologists have a lot of assumptions about how that individual behaves and responds to life whenever a person is a first born, middle child, youngest ch ild, or only child. The questions remains, what difference does birth order make, and how trueRead MoreMy Sibling And I Have Very Different Personalities1739 Words   |  7 PagesMy sibling and I have very different personalities, nature resulted in conflict growing up. My sister Abbey and I are only eighteen months apart and have shared a room for as long as I can remember. We have polar opposite personalities and would fight constantly growing up. I am very introverted, bring in large groups of people drains me. I like having time to myself but can be extroverted in social situations. I am a very easy-going flexible person and I try to avoid conflict as much as possibleRead MoreImpact Of Birth Order On Multi Children Families1168 Words   |  5 Pagesimpact of birth order in multi-children families, whether it affects creativity, future success, intelligence, and overall happiness and satisfaction in life. It is popularly believed by laypeople that birth order and family size pl ays a strong role in the development and eventual personality type and success of each adult; however, while many studies have found positive correlations between older children and success, others have been inconclusive (Carballo, J. et al. 2012). While birth order may playRead MoreThe Importance Of Birth Order And Its Effect On Leadership747 Words   |  3 Pagesthat birth order can determine how one leads. This paper will examine the importance of birth order and its effect on leadership. So, what is birth order? The term birth order refers to the rank of siblings by age. Birth order is believed to have significant and lasting psychological effects on an individual. The effects of birth order on the overall development of a person have continued to have an existence in both personal and professional life. What is personality? Personality refers

Neo Liberalism Essay Sample free essay sample

Neo liberalism is a political political orientation which advocates economic liberalisation and diminishing the function of the populace sector in modern society. Its protagonists besides argue for free trade and deregulating of the economic system. The three most important developments in the neo progressive epoch were ; internationalisation of trade and finance. increasing power of the multinational corporation and enhanced function of economic establishments like the IMF. WB and the WTO. It has features such as denationalization of public endeavors. revenue enhancement cuts and enlargement of the international market. Neo liberalists want minimum province intercession where the focal point is on a free market. Equality for them. is restricted to civil and political equality. They are advocators of negative autonomy and meritocracy. They differ from Libertarianism in the sense that libertarianism argues for single freedom of address and action in a really general manner. They want to maximise single autonomy by minimising the government’s function. We will write a custom essay sample on Neo Liberalism Essay Sample or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Neo liberalists nevertheless. concentrate more specifically on economic issues. Libertarians have a simple stance ; one can do determinations for him or herself sing any issue every bit long as they do non conflict upon person else’s right to make the same. One of the cardinal therorists for this political orientation. Friedrich Hayek ( 1899-1992 ) disagreed with Keynes and stated that. â€Å"The merely opportunity to construct a nice universe is to better the general degree of wealth via the activities of free markets† . For him. more power should be given to the private sector so that more wealth can be generated in the economic system with minimum market drosss. Hayek. talked about three chief issues. He was against revenue enhancement for redistribution. He wanted to stop the attending given to specific groups and wanted freedom to prosecute ends. His statement was that capitalist economy and democracy struggle with one another. For him. democracy meant that the authorities would be more disquieted about acquiring ballots and protecting particu lar involvement groups. His position was that â€Å"all coercive action of authorities must be limited to the enforcement of general regulations of merely conduct† . Another theoretician. Mancur Olson ( 1932-1998 ) advocates a little but strong authorities which opposes influence from particular group involvements. He wanted to analyze why people join groups to get down with. His cardinal statement was that â€Å"only a separate and ‘selective’ inducement will excite a rational person in a latent group to move in a group-oriented way† . Robert Nozick ( 1938-2002 ) states that persons own themselves and their labour power and so any sort of ownership of another is non legitimate. He farther states that the province can non redistribute money as it is a signifier of forced labor that takes money from your labour power and gives it to the province. This construct does non travel in line with Nozick’s impression of self-ownership. He says that to cover with the jobs in the province of nature protective associations are formed and we move from these protective associations to the ultra-minimal province and so to a minimum province. Neo liberalists therefore dispute the power of the province and assist us see the jobs with the big bureaucratic province. They focus on single autonomy and speak about the economic position of things. However. this accent on economic issues frequently leads to ignorance of environmental. societal and political issues. Capitalism. besides doesn’t warrant rights and freedoms to persons. Practically talking. in developing states. there isn’t minimum province intercession either. The theory besides assumes that there is meritocracy present.

O.Henry-Alias Jimmy Valentine free essay sample

Brace up, and make a man of yourself. Youre not a bad fellow at heart. Stop cracking safes, and live straight. Me? said Jimmy, in surprise. Why, I never cracked a safe in my life. . Oh, no, laughed the warden. Of course not. Lets see, now. How was it you happened to get sent up on that Springfield job? Was it because you wouldnt prove an alibi for fear of compromising somebody in extremely high-toned society? Or was it simply a case of a mean old jury that had it in for you? Its always one or the other with you innocent victims. Me? said Jimmy, still blankly virtuous. Why, warden, I never was in Springfield in my life! Take him back, Cronin! said the warden, and fix him up with outgoing clothes. Unlock him at seven in the morning, and let him come to the bull-pen. We will write a custom essay sample on O.Henry-Alias Jimmy Valentine or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Better think over my advice, Valentine. At a quarter past seven on the next morning Jimmy stood in the wardens outer office. He had on a suit of the villainously fitting, ready-made clothes and a pair of the stiff, squeaky shoes that the state furnishes to its discharged compulsory guests. The clerk handed him a railroad ticket and the five-dollar bill with which the law expected him to rehabilitate himself into good citizenship and prosperity. The warden gave him a cigar, and shook hands. Valentine, 9762, was chronicled on the books, Pardoned by Governor, and Mr. James Valentine walked out into the sunshine. Disregarding the song of the birds, the waving green trees, and the smell of the flowers, Jimmy headed straight for a restaurant. There he tasted the first sweet joys of liberty in the shape of a broiled chicken and a bottle of white wine—followed by a cigar a grade better than the one the warden had given him. From there he proceeded leisurely to the depot. He tossed a quarter into the hat of a blind man sitting by the door, and boarded his train. Three hours set him down in a little town near the state line. He went to the cafe of one Mike Dolan and shook hands with Mike, who was alone behind the bar. Sorry we couldnt make it sooner, Jimmy, me boy, said Mike. But we had that protest from Springfield to buck against, and the governor nearly balked. Feeling all right? . Fine, said Jimmy. Got my key? He got his key and went upstairs, unlocking the door of a room at the rear. Everything was just as he had left it. There on the floor was still Ben Prices collar-button that had been torn from that eminent detectives shirt-band when they had overpowered Jimmy to arrest him. Pulling out from the wall a folding-bed, Jimmy slid back a panel in the wall and dragged out a dust-covered suit-case. He opened this and gazed fondly at the finest set of burglars tools in the East. It was a complete set, made of specially tempered steel, the latest designs in drills, punches, braces and bits, jimmies, clamps, and augers, with two or three novelties, invented byJimmy himself, in which he took pride. Over nine hundred dollars they had cost him to have made at -, a place where they make such things for the profession. In half an hour Jimmy went down stairs and through the cafe. He was now dressed in tasteful and well-fitting clothes, and carried his dusted and cleaned suit-case in his hand. Got anything on? asked Mike Dolan, genially. Me? said Jimmy, in a puzzled tone. I dont understand. Im representing the New York Amalgamated Short Snap Biscuit Cracker and Frazzled Wheat Company. This statement delighted Mike to such an extent that Jimmy had to take a seltzer-and-milk on the spot. He never touched hard drinks. A week after the release of Valentine, 9762, there was a neat job of safe-burglary done in Richmond, Indiana, with no clue to the author. A scant eight hundred dollars was all that was secured. Two weeks after that a patented, improved, burglar-proof safe in Logansport was opened like a cheese to the tune of fifteen hundred dollars, currency; securities and silver untouched. That began to interest the rogue-catchers. Then an old-fashioned bank-safe in Jefferson City became active and threw out of its crater an eruption of bank-notes amounting to five thousand dollars. The losses were now high enough to bring the matter up into Ben Prices class of work. By comparing notes, a remarkable similarity in the methods of the burglaries was noticed. Ben Price investigated the scenes of the robberies, and was heard to remark:Thats Dandy Jim Valentines autograph. Hes resumed business. Look at that combination knob—jerked out as easy as pulling up a radish in wet weather. Hes got the only clamps that can do it. And look how clean those tumblers were punched out! Jimmy never has to drill but one hole. Yes, I guess I want Mr. Valentine. Hell do his bit next time without any short-time or clemency foolishness. Ben Price knew Jimmys habits. He had learned them while working on the Springfield case. Long jumps, quick get-aways, no confederates, and a taste for good society—these ways had helped Mr. Valentine to become noted as a successful dodger of retribution. It was given out that Ben Price had taken up the trail of the elusive cracksman, and other people with burglar-proof safes felt more at ease. One afternoon Jimmy Valentine and his suit-case climbed out of the mail-hack in Elmore, a little town five miles off the railroad down in the black-jack country of Arkansas. Jimmy, looking like an athletic young senior just home from college, went down the board side-walk toward the hotel. A young lady crossed the street, passed him at the corner and entered a door over which was the sign, The Elmore Bank. Jimmy Valentine looked into her eyes, forgot what he was, and became another man. She lowered her eyes and coloured slightly. Young men of Jimmys style and looks were scarce in Elmore. Jimmy collared a boy that was loafing on the steps of the bank as if he were one of the stockholders, and began to ask him questions about the town, feeding him dimes at intervals. By and by the young lady came out, looking royally unconscious of the young man with the suit-case, and went her way. Isn that young lady Polly Simpson? asked Jimmy, with specious guile. Naw, said the boy. Shes Annabel Adams. Her pa owns this bank. Whyd you come to Elmore for? Is that a gold watch-chain? Im going to get a bulldog. Got any more dimes? Jimmy went to the Planters Hotel, registered as Ralph D. Spencer, and engaged a room. He leaned on the desk and declared his platform to the clerk. He said he had come to Elmore to look for a location to go into business. How was the shoe business, now, in the town? He had thought of the shoe business. Was there an opening? The clerk was impressed by the clothes and manner of Jimmy. He, himself, was something of a pattern of fashion to the thinly gilded youth of Elmore, but he now perceived his shortcomings. While trying to figure out Jimmys manner of tying his four-in-hand he cordially gave information. Yes, there ought to be a good opening in the shoe line. There wasnt an exclusive shoe-store in the place. The dry-goods and general stores handled them. Business in all lines was fairly good. Hoped Mr. Spencer would decide to locate in Elmore. He would find it a pleasant town to live in, and the people very sociable. Mr. Spencer thought he would stop over in the town a few days and look over the situation. No, the clerk neednt call the boy. He would carry up his suit-case, himself; it was rather heavy. Mr. Ralph Spencer, the phoenix that arose from Jimmy Valentines ashes—ashes left by the flame of a sudden and alterative attack of love—remained in Elmore, and prospered. He opened a shoe-store and secured a good run of trade. Socially he was also a success, and made many friends. And he accomplished the wish of his heart. He met Miss Annabel Adams, and became more and more captivated by her charms. At the end of a year the situation of Mr. Ralph Spencer was this: he had won the respect of the community, his shoe-store was flourishing, and he and Annabel were engaged to be married in two weeks. Mr. Adams, the typical, plodding, country banker, approved of Spencer. Annabels pride in him almost equalled her affection. He was as much at home in the family of Mr. Adams and that of Annabels married sister as if he were already a member. One day Jimmy sat down in his room and wrote this letter, which he mailed to the safe address of one of his old friends in St. Louis:Dear Old Pal: I want you to be at Sullivans place, in Little Rock, next Wednesday night, at nine oclock. I want you to wind up some little matters for me. And, also, I want to make you a present of my kit of tools. I know youll be glad to get them—you couldnt duplicate the lot for a thousand dollars. Say, Billy, Ive quit the old business—a year ago. Ive got a nice store. Im making an honest living, and Im going to marry the finest girl on earth two weeks from now. Its the only life, Billy—the straight one. I wouldnt touch a dollar of another mans money now for a million. After I get married Im going to sell out and go West, where there wont be so much danger of having old scores brought up against me. I tell you, Billy, shes an angel. She believes in me; and I wouldnt do another crooked thing for the whole world. Be sure to be at Sullys, for I must see you. Ill bring along the tools with me. Your old friend, Jimmy. On the Monday night after Jimmy wrote this letter, Ben Price jogged unobtrusively into Elmore in a livery buggy. He lounged about town in his quiet way until he found out what he wanted to know. From the drug-store across the street from Spencers shoe-store he got a good look at Ralph D. Spencer. Going to marry the bankers daughter are you, Jimmy? said Ben to himself, softly. Well, I dont know! . The next morning Jimmy took breakfast at the Adamses. He was going to Little Rock that day to order his wedding-suit and buy something nice for Annabel. That would be the first time he had left town since he came to Elmore. It had been more than a year now since those last professional jobs, and he thought he could safely venture out. After breakfast quite a family party went downtown together—Mr. Adams, Annabel, Jimmy, and Annabels married sister with her two little girls, aged five and nine. They came by the hotel where Jimmy still boarded, and he ran up to his room and brought along his suit-case. Then they went on to the bank. There stood Jimmys horse and buggy and Dolph Gibson, who was going to drive him over to the railroad station. All went inside the high, carved oak railings into the banking-room—Jimmy included, for Mr. Adamss future son-in-law was welcome anywhere. The clerks were pleased to be greeted by the good-looking, agreeable young man who was going to marry Miss Annabel. Jimmy set his suit-case down. Annabel, whose heart was bubbling with happiness and lively youth, put on Jimmys hat, and picked up the suit-case. Wouldnt I make a nice drummer? said Annabel. My! Ralph, how heavy it is? Feels like it was full of gold bricks. Lot of nickel-plated shoe-horns in there, said Jimmy, coolly, that Im going to return. Thought Id save express charges by taking them up. Im getting awfully economical. The Elmore Bank had just put in a new safe and vault. Mr. Adams was very proud of it, and insisted on an inspection by every one. The vault was a small one, but it had a new, patented door. It fastened with three solid steel bolts thrown simultaneously with a single handle, and had a time-lock. Mr. Adams beamingly explained its workings to Mr. Spencer, who showed a courteous but not too intelligent interest. The two children, May and Agatha, were delighted by the shining metal and funny clock and knobs. While they were thus engaged Ben Price sauntered in and leaned on his elbow, looking casually inside between the railings. He told the teller that he didnt want anything; he was just waiting for a man he knew. Suddenly there was a scream or two from the women, and a commotion. Unperceived by the elders, May, the nine-year-old girl, in a spirit of play, had shut Agatha in the vault. She had then shot the bolts and turned the knob of the combination as she had seen Mr. Adams do. The old banker sprang to the handle and tugged at it for a moment. The door cant be opened, he groaned. The clock hasnt been wound nor the combination set. Agathas mother screamed again, hysterically. Hush! said Mr. Adams, raising his trembling hand. All be quiet for a moment. Agatha! he called as loudly as he could. Listen to me. During the following silence they could just hear the faint sound of the child wildly shrieking in the dark vault in a panic of terror. My precious darling! wailed the mother. She will die of fright! Open the door! Oh, break it open! Cant you men do something? There isnt a man nearer than Little Rock who can open that door, said Mr. Adams, in a shaky voice. My God! Spencer, what shall we do? That child—she cant stand it long in there. There isnt enough air, and, besides, shell go into convulsions from fright. Agathas mother, frantic now, beat the door of the vault with her hands. Somebody wildly suggested dynamite. Annabel turned to Jimmy, her large eyes full of anguish, but not yet despairing. To a woman nothing seems quite impossible to the powers of the man she worships. Cant you do something, Ralph—try, wont you? He looked at her with a queer, soft smile on his lips and in his keen eyes. Annabel, he said, give me that rose you are wearing, will you? Hardly believing that she heard him aright, she unpinned the bud from the bosom of her dress, and placed it in his hand. Jimmy stuffed it into his vest-pocket, threw off his coat and pulled up his shirt-sleeves. With that act Ralph D. Spencer passed away and Jimmy Valentine took his place. Get away from the door, all of you, he commanded, shortly. He set his suit-case on the table, and opened it out flat. From that time on he seemed to be unconscious of the presence of any one else. He laid out the shining, queer implements swiftly and orderly, whistling softly to himself as he always did when at work. In a deep silence and immovable, the others watched him as if under a spell. In a minute Jimmys pet drill was biting smoothly into the steel door. In ten minutes—breaking his own burglarious record—he threw back the bolts and opened the door. Agatha, almost collapsed, but safe, was gathered into her mothers arms. Jimmy Valentine put on his coat, and walked outside the railings towards the front door. As he went he thought he heard a far-away voice that he once knew call Ralph! But he never hesitated. At the door a big man stood somewhat in his way. Hello, Ben! said Jimmy, still with his strange smile. Got around at last, have you? Well, lets go. I dont know that it makes much difference, now. And then Ben Price acted rather strangely. Guess youre mistaken, Mr. Spencer, he said. Dont believe I recognize you. Your buggys waiting for you, aint it? And Ben Price turned and strolled down the street.