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Sunday, June 22, 2008

The banking industry

The banking industry is a highly regulated industry with detailed and focused regulators. All banks with FDIC-insured deposits have the FDIC as a regulator; however, for examinations, the Federal Reserve is the primary federal regulator for Fed-member state banks; the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (“OCC”) is the primary federal regulator for national banks; and the Office of Thrift Supervision, or OTS, is the primary federal regulator for thrifts. State non-member banks are examined by the state agencies as well as the FDIC. National banks have one primary regulator—the OCC.
Each regulatory agency has their own set of rules and regulations to which banks and thrifts must adhere.
The Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (FFIEC) was established in 1979 as a formal interagency body empowered to prescribe uniform principles, standards, and report forms for the federal examination of financial institutions. Although the FFIEC has resulted in a greater degree of regulatory consistency between the agencies, the rules and regulations are constantly changing.
In addition to changing regulations, changes in the industry have led to consolidations within the Federal Reserve, FDIC, OTS and OCC. Offices have been closed, supervisory regions have been merged, staff levels have been reduced and budgets have been cut. The remaining regulators face an increased burden with increased workload and more banks per regulator. While banks struggle to keep up with the changes in the regulatory environment, regulators struggle to manage their workload and effectively regulate their banks. The impact of these changes is that banks are receiving less hands-on assessment by the regulators, less time spent with each institution, and the potential for more problems slipping through the cracks, potentially resulting in an overall increase in bank failures across the United States.
The changing economic environment has a significant impact on banks and thrifts as they struggle to effectively manage their interest rate spread in the face of low rates on loans, rate competition for deposits and the general market changes, industry trends and economic fluctuations. It has been a challenge for banks to effectively set their growth strategies with the recent economic market. A rising interest rate environment may seem to help financial institutions, but the effect of the changes on consumers and businesses is not predictable and the challenge remains for banks to grow and effectively manage the spread to generate a return to their shareholders.
The management of the banks’ asset portfolios also remains a challenge in today’s economic environment. Loans are a bank’s primary asset category and when loan quality becomes suspect, the foundation of a bank is shaken to the core. While always an issue for banks, declining asset quality has become a big problem for financial institutions. There are several reasons for this, one of which is the lax attitude some banks have adopted because of the years of “good times.” The potential for this is exacerbated by the reduction in the regulatory oversight of banks and in some cases depth of management. Problems are more likely to go undetected, resulting in a significant impact on the bank when they are recognized. In addition, banks, like any business, struggle to cut costs and have consequently eliminated certain expenses, such as adequate employee training programs.
Banks also face a host of other challenges such as aging ownership groups. Across the country, many banks’ management teams and board of directors are aging. Banks also face ongoing pressure by shareholders, both public and private, to achieve earnings and growth projections. Regulators place added pressure on banks to manage the various categories of risk. Banking is also an extremely competitive industry. Competing in the financial services industry has become tougher with the entrance of such players as insurance agencies, credit unions, check cashing services, credit card companies, etc.

lon pine

Cathay Bank in Boston's ChinatownThe definition of a bank varies from country to country.Under English law, a bank is defined as a person who carries on the business of banking, which is specified as:[1]conducting current accounts for his customers paying cheques drawn on him, and collecting cheques for his customers. In most English common law jurisdictions there is a Bills of Exchange Act that codifies the law in relation to negotiable instruments, including cheques, and this Act contains a statutory definition of the term banker: banker includes a body of persons, whether incorporated or not, who carry on the business of banking' (Section 2, Interpretation). Although this definition seems circular, it is actually functional, because it ensures that the legal basis for bank transactions such as cheques do not depend on how the bank is organised or regulated.The business of banking is in many English common law countries not defined by statute but by common law, the definition above. In other English common law jurisdictions there are statutory definitions of the business of banking or banking business. When looking at these definitions it is important to keep in mind that they are defining the business of banking for the purposes of the legislation, and not necessarily in general. In particular, most of the definitions are from legislation that has the purposes of entry regulating and supervising banks rather than regulating the actual business of banking. However, in many cases the statutory definition closely mirrors the common law one. Examples of statutory definitions:"banking business" means the business of receiving money on current or deposit account, paying and collecting cheques drawn by or paid in by customers, the making of advances to customers, and includes such other business as the Authority may prescribe for the purposes of this Act; (Banking Act (Singapore), Section 2, Interpretation). "banking business" means the business of either or both of the following: receiving from the general public money on current, deposit, savings or other similar account repayable on demand or within less than [3 months] ... or with a period of call or notice of less than that period; paying or collecting cheques drawn by or paid in by customers[2] Since the advent of EFTPOS (Electronic Funds Transfer at Point Of Sa

(i)Organic Lifestyle


We all want to give our kids the best products available to ensure they grow up healthy and happy. Horizon Organic® dairy products are a great way to ensure your kids are getting the calcium they need without the use of added growth hormones, antibiotics, and dangerous pesticides.The issue of pesticide residues in produce is particularly pertinent to kids, who consume far more produce per pound of body weight than adults.But with regard to kids, the issue of pesticide residues in foods is not limited to produce. There's growing evidence that children may be more sensitive than adults to the effects of pesticides, due to their rapidly developing nervous systems. Calcium is especially important for kids' growing bodies. But since most Americans aren't getting their recommended daily amount of calcium, it's no surprise that most kids aren't either. In fact, studies show that two out of three children are not getting enough calcium in their diets.1So how do we help our kids to get more calcium? One solution is to give kids calcium rich products that come in fun and flavorful varieties. Studies show that kids who drink flavored milk get the calcium they need without increasing their overall sugar and fat intake.2In addition, Horizon Organic yogurts are enhanced with NutraFlora®, a natural fiber and probiotic that has been shown in clinical studies to enhance calcium absorption.Nutrient requirements change with your child's age. Recommended Dietary Allowances, or RDAs, are intended to reflect the best scientific judgment on nutrition allowances for the maintenance of good health. They are developed by the Food and Nutrition Board of the National Academy of Sciences National Research Council, and are designed for the maintenance of good nutrition of practically all healthy people in the U.S. The RDAs for children 1-10 are outlined below:

For healthcare Professionals



As a healthcare professional, you may provide your patients with guidance regarding good nutrition and healthful eating habits. If you have patients who have expressed interest in organic foods, we are happy to provide you with the latest information on the topic from the scientific and medical communities.

'Organic' refers to the way agricultural foods are produced and processed without chemical pesticides and fertilizers. The goal of organic farming is to build biological diversity, replenish and maintain soil fertility, and reduce farm pollution. There is evolving science that continues to demonstrate the long-term benefits of organic farming on human and animal health and the environment.
All Horizon Organic® products are made from ingredients produced with no antibiotics, no added growth hormones and no dangerous pesticides.
No AntibioticsAntibiotics are important in the fight against disease and infection, but they may become less effective over time if they are used incorrectly or excessively. Therefore, the widespread use of antibiotics on healthy animals may lower their effectiveness in helping treat human illness. Organic farmers approach herd health holistically, treating animals without the use of antibiotics or hormones.
No Added Growth HormonesGrowth hormones naturally occur in milk, however unlike some non-organic dairy cows, organic cows are never given added growth hormones to increase milk production.
No Dangerous PesticidesFor land to be certified organic, farmers are not allowed to use harmful chemicals that can pollute the air, water and food. Instead, they use sustainable farming techniques like crop rotation and composting to improve soil fertility, and use non-toxic materials to control pests.

Our Community of farms



Family farms hold a very special place in our company. In fact, our growing community of hundreds of family farms is truly the heart of Horizon Organic, providing more than 80% of our milk. We nurture this relationship with our Horizon Organic Producer Education program (HOPE); an ongoing campaign to recruit, educate and champion organic dairy farmers.
As part of the HOPE program, Horizon Organic maintains a dedicated regional farm support team. These experienced dairy professionals travel the back roads every day to connect with our farmers in the field. As a Horizon Organic farmer, you'll work one-on-one with a local rep who knows and appreciates your farm - and your family.


Built in the early days of the organic movement, our company-owned farms represent our abiding faith in organic dairy. At a time when many dismissed organic as a passing fad, we stood firmly by our principles, paving our own path toward the organic ideal by investing in farms that proved the viability of organic practices.
Today – even as our community of family farms grows – we continue to consider our company – owned dairies vital to our work and mission. In addition to supplementing our core milk supply, our company – owned farms serve as a model for the industry as a whole. They've demonstrated that organic principles, applied with diligence and integrity, work equally well for herds of many sizes and in many environments. We take great pride in this achievement, and regard it as a starting point for future organic innovation.
Like any organic farmers, we follow the regulations of the U.S.D.A. National Organic Program in all of our farming practices. We also confront the same challenges and market fluctuations that face our farmer partners across the country. For example, in 2004, we struggled with rising feed costs at our dairies. Conscious that our partners faced a similar strain, we launched our groundbreaking Market Adjustment Premium (MAP) program, voluntarily raising our pay price in hard – hit regions to help our partners weather the changeable market. Because we operate as a producer as well as a buyer, we recognize that our partners' struggles are no different from our own, and we're committed to overcoming them together.

health benifits of organic foods


Horizon Organic® products not only nurture our planet by encouraging organic farm expansion, they also nourish our bodies because they are produced without the use of antibiotics, added growth hormones or dangerous pesticides. That's why choosing Horizon Organic is a wholesome way to satisfy your desire for great-tasting, nutritious food.
Horizon Organic milk and dairy products can be an important part of a balanced diet and are produced without the use of added chemicals:
No antibiotics
No added growth hormones
No dangerous pesticides
No genetically modified organisms
No artificial flavors, synthetic colors or preservatives
No hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils
Cancer-fighting Antioxidants in Organic Fruits and Vegetables
Organic foods are important for what they have less of—namely antibiotics, added growth hormones and dangerous pesticides. Now they may also be important for what they contain. According to research published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, organic fruits and veggies have 50% to 60% higher levels of cancer-fighting antioxidants than non-organic fruits and veggies.1
Both the National Dairy Council and the USDA recommend three servings of dairy products each day to build strong bones, muscles and teeth. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, most Americans are not getting the recommended amount of calcium in their diets. In fact, the average person only consumes half of the three recommended daily servings of dairy food. 2 The Dietary Guidelines for Americans, prepared by the USDA and the US Dept. of Health and Human Services, 2005.
Horizon Organic offers a wide variety of delicious organic milk, yogurt and cheese products that provide an excellent source of calcium, which is also believed to reduce the risk of osteoporosis and kidney stones.
A growing body of scientific research suggests that getting calcium through dairy products plays a role in weight management for both adults and children. A recent University of Hawaii study of girls aged 9 to 14 showed that calcium, especially when derived from dairy products, helps control weight and body fat. Researchers found that, despite differences in calorie intake and exercise, girls who consumed more dairy calcium weighed less than girls who took in less calcium through dairy. In fact, as little as a daily increase of 300 milligrams of calcium—one cup of milk or a small piece of cheese—resulted in as much as two pounds less body weight.3
In a separate study, researchers found that low daily calcium intake was associated with greater body fat and body weight, particularly in women.4
In addition to providing calcium, Horizon Organic® milk and dairy foods are an important source of other vitamins and minerals. They are high in phosphorus, and are a good source of both protein and vitamin A.
Getting enough vitamin A is important for good eyesight. It is also necessary to help the immune, skeletal, respiratory, reproductive and integumentary (skin) systems function properly.5
In addition, Horizon Organic milk is fortified with vitamin D, an important vitamin that helps your body absorb calcium. Without vitamin D, bones can become brittle and soft. Also, according to a study recently published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, people who consumed vitamin D in daily servings of milk and fish were 40 percent less likely to develop potentially cancerous growths in the colon than those who didn't get enough vitamin D.6
Feb. 26, 2003 issue Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. Originally published on American Chemical Society's website Jan. 25, 2003.
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans, prepared by the USDA and the U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services, 2005.
Novotny, R. et al. Higher dairy intake is associated with lower body fat during adolescence, FASEB Journal, 2003; 17 (4): A453.8. Abstract
Jacqmain, M. Calcium intake, body composition, and lipo-protein-lipid concentration in adults, American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 2003; 77:1448-1452.
National Research Council: Committee on Dietary Allowances. Recommended Dietary Allowances (Tenth Edition). 1989. National Academy Press. Washington, DC.
Liebeman, DA & Prindiville, S & Weiss, DG & Willet, W. Risk factors for a, June 10, 2003.dvanced colonic neoplasia and hyperplastic polyps in asymptomatic individuals. Journal of American Medical Association, June 10, 2003

Organic and your health


Organic refers to the way agricultural foods and fibers are produced and processed. It is a commitment to agricultural practices that strive for a balance with nature, using methods and materials that are of low impact to the environment. And the primary goal is to optimize the health and productivity of interdependent communities of soil life, plants, animals and people.
When you choose Horizon Organic® products, you contribute to the health and well-being of the planet because organic farming methods respect the earth and nurture animals. For land to remain certified organic, our farmers never use harmful chemicals that can pollute our air, water and food. Instead, they use sustainable farming techniques like crop rotation and composting to improve soil fertility, and non-toxic materials like vegetable oil to control pests. Through these measures, we kept more than 17 million pounds of pesticides, herbicides and fertilizer out of the environment in 2007 alone!
Organic farmers are also committed to the humane treatment of animals. Horizon Organic farmer partners approach herd health holistically. Our cows make milk according to their natural behaviors. And we keep them in good health by giving them certified organic feed, fresh air, and access to pasture.
All Horizon Organic products are produced without the use of antibiotics, added growth hormones, or dangerous pesticides. In addition, organic processing practices maintain the integrity of food without using preservatives or irradiation.
No Antibiotics
Antibiotics are important in the fight against disease and infection, but they become less effective over time if they are used incorrectly or excessively. Therefore, the widespread use of antibiotics on healthy animals may lower their effectiveness in helping treat human illness. Organic farmers approach herd health holistically, treating animals without the use of antibiotics or hormones.
The Union of Concerned Scientists estimates that of the 35 million pounds of antibiotics administered each year in the U.S., 70% goes to healthy livestock to stimulate growth and prevent disease. This massive usage could help develop super-strong strains of drug-resistant bacteria that can spread to people. Developed countries around the world, except for the United States and Canada, have set regulations restricting such use.
For these reasons, the World Health Organization has recommended repeatedly that antibiotics used on humans not be prescribed to promote livestock growth. And in June 2001, the American Medical Association went on record opposing the use of antibiotics in agriculture for non-therapeutic use in healthy animals.1

Sunday, June 15, 2008

Morning Fresh


It has been known to acts as a natural deodorant. Green Tea herbal soap, green tea for healthy skin care. Capped black tea- bags scoter sunburn.
It stimulates immense system functions. It is used to treat acne, Diasporas Shingles, Cuts and burns, braises and infested wounds.
It does all this as the tree has antiseptics and anti-fungal Qualities. It is 100% Biodegradable.
It is used as an antiseptic from May skin inflation, Such as truth and acne. The oil ca also be used in chest rubs or inhalants for colds and makes a useful hair rinse for head lice or nits.

Our Products
Morning Fresh- 100 % Vegetarian
SoapPrice : NRs. 250.00/ US$3.5.00
It is an excellent natural soap having mixture of himalayan herbs and natural oils without using tallow and minerals. There has been bad effect on human skin due to the use of soap made of tallow and natural aromatic oils. The soap found in the open market has sodium lauryl suphate - SLS which makes natural oils stronger come out from skin and blocks the hole of skin. Thanks to this reason, Toxins cannot come out of skin; subsequently, it brings a big skin ailment. In accordance with the research and different authentic sources, there have been constant allergy, eye-aching and different skin ailments on account of using this kind of soap regularly. It is also found that people could be suffered with cancer after using the soap continuously according to the authentic sources. It has been learnt that some people's problems are caused by allergy to tallow.Morning Fresh, medicated soap has been made of himalayan herbs and natural aromatic oils. It remains in the hole of skin after having a shower. If this soap is used regularly, there will be no problem on skin ailments due to germicial effect. "The Ingredients of Morning Fresh"Artemisia vulgaris, Juniperus communis, Acorus calamus, Bacopa monnieri, Cedrus deodara, Conandrum sativum, Cuminum cyminum, Feoniculum vulgare, Glycyrrhiza gladra, Holarrhena antisenterica, Embilica officinalis, Zingiber officinale, Psoralea corylifolia, Mentha arvensis, Pterocarpus santalinus, Azadirachta indica, Embelia ribes, Smilax china, Curcuma longa, Andrographis paniculata, Commiphora mukul, Trachyspermum roxburghianum Glycerine, Coconut Oil, Castor Oil, Plam Oil and Aromatic essential oils.Why this soap is in need of.?1. To Remove Dirts and Grimes:Through outer dirts and grimes of body have been xed by the soap made of tallow and minerals oils. It blocks the hole of skin, as a result, the dirts through sweat cannot come out. And Morning Fresh doesn't harm at all so, all outer and inner dirts have been xed from body.2. To be Refreshed:Sadly speaking, most of the soaps sold in the open market are made of synthetic oils with different colours. We feel fresher after using it, is NOT natural. In Morning Fresh, there have been only himalayan herbs and natural aromatic oils which give complete freshness after having a shower.3. To Treat Minor Skin Ailments:It is already clarified that using sodium lauryl sulphate and tallow made soap brings the problems of pimple mange, Exzeme, Ringworm, Acne Itch on the skin. But in Morning Fresh, there have been the use of himalayan herbs and natural aromatic oils in place of using such ingredients that's why; it solves the skin's problem with more effective."The Advantages of Morning Fresh"- Makes skin delicate and soft.- Is useful for sun-burnt skin, Boil, Dandruff, Pimples, Exzeme, Ringworm and Wounds and so on.- Is more useful and effective for boil on child's head, bliser and so on."Instructions for application"This soap can be used like other soaps, but you have to at least 4-5 minutes massage into the skin with soapsuds to be fresher. If you have skin ailments you are in need of using twice a day for a month regularly. Don't use other soaps in the course of using this soap, otherwise, there will be no positive result what you have expected for."Some crucial information to know"1. We shouldn't claim that this soap is anti-dandruff for hair because that there is no soap made of anti-dandruff so far for hair but made of anti-dandruff for only the skin. It might help for hair dandruff due to the use of himalayan herbs.2. There has been a mark of dandruff on face and other parts of the body owing to the problem of the digestive system, at Morning Fresh avoids the marks at that situation but it definitely avoids. The marks of dandruff due to UV radiation, using low standard cream and lotion after using it constantly.3. If there is a problem of allergy on the skin. It could by natural aromatic oils because there have been no guarantees of favoring all the people by the use of herbs. Remember that if it should be stopped using if problem is not saved until 7 days.In Conclusion, We believe that we will be having delicate, healthy and beautiful lives if Morning Fresh is used regularly.