Accentuate the Positive by the Most Sensitive Man in Bexley, Simon Doer
The 1944 election year pitted Democrat Franklin D. Roosevelt against Republican Thomas Dewey in the campaign for President. While accusing Republicans of fraud in their attempts to claim credit for social gains of the New Deal, he also ridiculed Republican claims that his administration was corrupt and wasteful with tax money. He pointedly challenged a claim that he sent a US Navy ship to pick up his dog Fala, a terrier, in Alaska, noting that "Fala was furious" at the rumor. Meanwhile Dewey accused Roosevelt of being "indispensable" to corrupt big city Democratic organizations and American Communists. During that same year Johnny Mercer wrote the lyrics to Accentuate the Positive, a song with the refrain:
“You've got to accentuate the positive
Eliminate the negative
And latch on to the affirmative
Don't mess with Mister In-Between”
Those earlier lyrics may still hold guidance for election campaigns during 2010.
As you consider those lyrics from an earlier time, are you frustrated by what appears to be a current election campaign dominated by negative information about opponents rather than positive information promoting what each candidate would bring to the office they seek?
When I look for campaign literature or information accentuating candidates’ positive qualities, experience and strategies candidates propose to bring to the issues impacting the offices to which they seek to be elected this year, I find the mail, television, radio and internet bring a proliferation of negative information on the opposing candidates. Bad hair day or expression photos of the opposing candidates that even driver license or school photo providers would discard are usually the norm on these flyers and advertisements.
Many of the pieces opposing particular candidates hide behind broadly labeled groups or parties with no attribution to the candidates contesting the election.
Does what appears to be a trend to negatively focus on the opposing candidate run afoul of common sense and long standing marketing and public relations tactics? The show business cliché is that “It doesn't matter what they say as long as they spell your name right." Plus what happened to the political maxim “never give a political opponent free publicity?” That maxim has been used effectively by political frontrunners to ignore their opponents, never referring to them by name, but perhaps by political party alone, to avoid giving the opponent free exposure.
When so much negativism is awash in the political media do voters connect it to particular candidates? Ohio voters have a history of electing certain surnames, sometimes regardless of political party or political stances, based on the political familiarity of names (Brown, for example). Perhaps this is a jaundiced view, however, particularly when it comes to lesser known political races voters may make their entries on the ballot based on “I’ve heard that name,” likely not connecting a positive or negative association (and conversely “I haven’t heard anything about the other candidate or candidates.”)
There are many scholarly research articles on the effectiveness of negative political attacks on opposing candidates. Some of these studies, available through an internet search, make fascinating reading addressing the impact analysis of negative political advertisements. Sadly the results suggest that negative campaign approaches can be effective with certain targeted groups of voters.
Perhaps the question we should ask the issuers of negative campaign materials and the candidates that stand behind them who state, “I have approved this message,” is despite whether or not the materials are effective, are they ethical? Do they reflect an effort to bring to light a very real concern or are they simply presenting a litany of opponent’s quotes through cleverly crafted catchphrases to place their opponent in a bad light?
So, tell us as voters what you bring to the office, not what your opponent fails to offer.
That is one sensitive man’s opinion. What is yours?
HELP BEXLEY PUBLIC RADIO UPGRADE ITS ANTENNA AND PURCHASE NEW EAS EQUIPMENT SEND YOUR MONEY PROMPTLY. BE GENEROUS.
Bexley Public Radio Foundation broadcasting as
WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM, Local Power Radio
2700 E. Main St., Suite 208
Columbus, OH 43209
Voice (614) 235 2929
Fax (614) 235 3008
Email wcrxlp@yahoo.com
Blog http://agentofcurrency.blogspot.com
Bexley Public Radio Foundation is exempt from federal taxes under IRC Section 501(c)(3). Donations are deductible from federal income taxes for individuals who itemize. Checks may identify the payee as Bexley Public Radio Foundation or WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM.
Design is copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Bexley Public Radio Foundation. Text is copyright 2010. All rights reserved. MSMIB Most Sensitive Man in Bexley.
Friday, October 22, 2010
Saturday, October 9, 2010
CPAC public meeting scheduled for 4:30 p.m. Monday November 1, 2010
Community Programming Advisory Committee meeting for Bexley Public Radio.
The location is 2700 E. Main St., Suite 208, Columbus, OH.
4:30 p.m. Monday November 1, 2010.
Community residents are welcome.
Admission is $10.00 per person.
Cash, check, money order and ID.
Please RSVP to wcrxlp@yahoo.com or voice mail to (614) 235-2929 no later than Friday October 29, 2010.
Chairwoman Laura Franks
Community Programming Advisory Committee
Bexley Public Radio Foundation
2700 E. Main St., Suite 208
Columbus, OH 43209
The location is 2700 E. Main St., Suite 208, Columbus, OH.
4:30 p.m. Monday November 1, 2010.
Community residents are welcome.
Admission is $10.00 per person.
Cash, check, money order and ID.
Please RSVP to wcrxlp@yahoo.com or voice mail to (614) 235-2929 no later than Friday October 29, 2010.
Chairwoman Laura Franks
Community Programming Advisory Committee
Bexley Public Radio Foundation
2700 E. Main St., Suite 208
Columbus, OH 43209
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Laura Franks Dividend Note No. 32 for Bexley Public Radio
This is my Dividend Report No. 32 covering twenty-seven companies increasing their dividends during the weeks ending September and the first opening days of October.
On the list are four companies that caught my eye as simply interesting for different non-financial reasons.
Park Electrochemical Corp is a major manufacturer of circuit boards used in telecommunications and the internet infra-structure. It is a large, if obscure, American company.
Atlantic Tele-Network, Inc. is a small telecommunications company operating in small markets. It provides telephone services in American rural markets and in the islands of Bermuda and other islands in the Caribbean.
Two interesting companies to study and make speculations about are a Scottish company, IndigoVision, and a Florida company, Propalms Inc. I think IndigoVision is interesting to study because of its concentrated ownership. Propalms, Inc. is interesting to try to decipher exactly what it does. Both provide opportunities to exercise analytical skills.
The entire list of companies raising their dividend pay-outs is:
Accenture
Arlington Asset Investment Corp.
Atlantic Tele-Network
Bank of the Ozarks
Clarcor
Claymore Dividend and Income Fund
Comtech Telecommunications Corp.
ConAgra Foods, Inc.
Covidien plc Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc.
CreXus Investment Corp.
CSX Corporation
Darden Restaurants, Inc.
Emera Inc.
The First of Long Island Corporation
Hingham Institution for Savings
IndigoVision
Lockheed Martin Corporation
McDonald’s
Microsoft Corp.
Northwest Natural Gas Company
Park Electrochemical Corp.
Propalms, Inc.
Realty Income Corporation
Sanderson Farms, Inc.
Thor Industries, Inc.
West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc.
WD-40 Company
Accenture (NYSE: ACN) September 30, 2010, New York, NY increased its semi-annual cash dividend to $0.45 per share. This is an increase of 7.5 cents per share, or 20 percent, over its previous semi-annual dividend, declared in March.
For fiscal year 2011, Accenture continues to expect net revenue growth of 7% to 10% in local currency and increases outlook for annual EPS growth to 13% to 16%.
Accenture reported strong financial results for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2010, ended Aug. 31, and full-year results in line with the company's expectations.
William D. Green, Accenture's chairman & CEO, said, "We're very pleased with our financial results, with our strong fourth-quarter performance demonstrating further evidence of our growth and momentum. We managed our business well and accelerated actions to grow revenue and expand operating margin. And our strong bookings -- including consulting bookings of more than $3.5 billion -- show increasing demand for our services. We generated significant free cash flow, and our balance sheet remains exceptionally strong. We continued our commitment to return cash to shareholders through an increased semi-annual cash dividend, declared today, and through the repurchase of more than $2 billion of our shares during fiscal 2010.
Accenture plc is a management consulting, technology services and outsourcing company. Its business is organized in five operating groups: Communications & High Tech, Financial Services, Health & Public Service, Products and Resources. In October 2009, the Company acquired Symbian Professional Services from Nokia Corporation. In February 2010, the Company completed the acquisition of RiskControl, a consulting company based in Rio de Janeiro. In July 2010, the Company acquired Acceria.
Arlington Asset Investment Corp. (NYSE: AI) September 20, 2010, Arlington, VA, announced that its board of directors declared a dividend of $0.60 per share for the third quarter of 2010. The dividend will be payable on October 29, 2010 to shareholders of record on September 30, 2010. This dividend is a continuance of the company's variable dividend policy. The board of directors will continue to assess appropriate dividend payouts and policy in future periods.
During the third quarter of 2010, the company repurchased 193,824 shares of its Class A common stock at an average price of $19.84 per share. The company now has remaining authorization to repurchase up to 277,154 shares of its Class A common stock under its current repurchase program.
"Consistent with the company's variable dividend policy, today's $0.25 per share increase in the third quarter dividend reflects continued favorable performance in the company's investment portfolio. Given the company's tax status as a C-corporation with approximately $800 million of combined net operating and capital loss carry-forwards, shareholders are able to simultaneously benefit from the tax efficient return of cash as well as potential growth in the company's book value from portfolio income and potential realized investment gains in future periods. Taken together with the company's share repurchases during the quarter, we believe this increased dividend demonstrates the company's balanced ability to deliver to its shareholders an attractive and tax efficient total return from the combination of dividend yield and the potential for growth in book value for portfolio reinvestment, share repurchases and other initiatives," said J. Rock Tonkel, Jr., President and Chief Operating Officer.
Arlington Asset Investment Corp. is a principal investment firm that invests primarily in mortgage-related assets. The company is headquartered in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area.
Atlantic Tele-Network, Inc. (NASDAQ:ATNI) September 27, 2010, Beverly, MA announced that its board of directors has declared a quarterly dividend of $0.22 per share, payable on October 12, 2010, on all common shares outstanding to stockholders of record as of October 6, 2010. This is the twelfth consecutive annual increase in the company’s dividend and represents an increase of two cents, or 10%, in the dividend paid in the previous quarter. If maintained, this equates to an annual increase of eight cents, from $0.80 per share to $0.88 per share.
Michael T. Prior, Chief Executive Officer of the Company, said, “This dividend increase reflects our ongoing commitment to maintain strong current returns for our shareholders while preserving funding for our future growth.”
Atlantic Tele-Network, Inc, headquartered in Beverly, Massachusetts, provides telecommunications services to rural, niche and other under-served markets and geographies in the United States, Bermuda and the Caribbean. Through our operating subsidiaries, we provide both wireless and wireline connectivity to residential and business customers, including a range of mobile wireless solutions, local exchange services and broadband internet services and are the owner and operator of terrestrial and submarine fiber optic transport systems.
Bank of the Ozarks, (Nasdaq: OZRK) October 1, 2010, Little Rock, AR, announced its board of directors has approved a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.16 per common share payable October 22, 2010 to shareholders of record as of October 15, 2010. The dividend of $0.16 per share represents an increase of $0.01 per share, or 6.7%, over the dividend paid in the previous quarter. This is the second increase in the Company's quarterly dividend this year.
Bank of the Ozarks, Inc. is a bank holding company with $2.88 billion in total assets as of June 30, 2010. The company owns a state-chartered subsidiary bank that conducts banking operations through 90 offices in Arkansas, Texas, Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina and Alabama.
CLARCOR Inc. (NYSE: CLC) September 30, 2010, Franklin, TN, announced that its board of directors declared an increase in the regular quarterly dividend from $0.0975 per share to $0.105 per share. This increase raises the annual rate from $0.39 per share to $0.42 per share, a 7.7% increase and the company's 27th consecutive annual increase. The dividend is payable October 22, 2010 to shareholders of record October 8, 2010.
CLARCOR is based in Franklin, Tennessee and is a diversified marketer and manufacturer of mobile, industrial and environmental filtration products and consumer and industrial packaging products sold in domestic and international markets.
Claymore Dividend & Income Fund (NYSE: DCS) October 1, 2010, Lisle, IL, announced that it will distribute dividends among all its shareholders in the running financial year. The closed-end management investment company said it is increasing its quarterly dividend by 25% to $0.125 per share, effective with its November 2010 dividend. The increased dividend compares to the $0.10 per share for the Fund’s most recent dividend.
The company said the November 2010 dividend will be paid on November 30, 2010 to shareholders of record as of November 15, 2010 with an ex-dividend date of November 10, 2010.
Comtech Telecommunications Corp. (Nasdaq: CMTL) September 23, 2010, Melville, NY, announced that its board of directors has approved the initiation of a quarterly cash dividend on shares of Comtech common stock. The first quarterly dividend payment of $0.25 per share will be paid on November 22, 2010 to shareholders of record at the close of business on October 22, 2010. While future dividends will be subject to Board approval, the Board of Directors is initially targeting an annual dividend of $1.00 per share per year.
Comtech today also announced that its Board of Directors has authorized the repurchase of up to $100.0 million of Comtech common stock. These repurchases may be made in open-market or privately negotiated transactions and may be made pursuant to SEC Rule 10b5-1 trading plans. The Company announced that it intends to begin repurchasing stock on September 27, 2010, which is the first date that the Company's year-end trading window opens.
"As we look to fiscal 2011 and beyond, we are confident in the overall strength of our business and its ability to continue to generate the strong cash flows that would enable the Company to return cash to our shareholders through a quarterly dividend," said Fred Kornberg, President and Chief Executive Officer of Comtech.
Mr. Kornberg added, "As of the end of our fiscal year on July 31, 2010, we had over $600.0 million of cash and cash equivalents and our stock represents an attractive investment opportunity. In addition, we intend to continue to pursue strategic acquisitions that we believe will drive long-term growth and shareholder value."
Comtech Telecommunications Corp. designs, develops, produces and markets innovative products, systems and services for advanced communications solutions. The company believes many of its solutions play a vital role in providing or enhancing communication capabilities when terrestrial communications infrastructure is unavailable, inefficient or too expensive. The company conducts business through three complementary segments: telecommunications transmission, mobile data communications and RF microwave amplifiers. The company sells products to a diverse customer base in the global commercial and government communications markets. The company believes it is a market leader in the market segments that it serves.
ConAgra Foods, Inc. (NYSE: CAG) September 21, 2010, Omaha, NE raised the annualized dividend 15% to $0.92 per share from $0.80 per share. The new quarterly rate of $0.23 per share will be effective with the December 2010 payment.
ConAgra Foods, Inc., a packaged food company, reported results for the fiscal 2011 first quarter ended Aug. 29, 2010. Diluted EPS from continuing operations was $0.32, including $0.02 per diluted share of net expense from items impacting comparability. Adjusting for those items, diluted EPS from continuing operations was $0.34, which is below comparable year-ago amounts. For the same period a year ago, diluted EPS from continuing operations as reported was $0.37, which included $0.01 of expense from items impacting comparability. Items impacting comparability in the current year and prior year are summarized toward the end of this release.
Gary Rodkin, ConAgra Foods' chief executive officer, said, "Our fiscal first-quarter margins and EPS were lower than planned because of an intense promotional environment and inflation that outpaced cost savings. There were, however, several signs of strength in terms of market share and brand sales, demonstrating progress and growth potential for important parts of our portfolio."
Covidien plc (NYSE: COV) September 23, 2010, Dublin, Ireland, announced that its board of directors has declared an 11% increase in the quarterly dividend rate, from $0.18 per ordinary share to $0.20 per ordinary share.
“This marks the second dividend increase in the last twelve months, reflecting our good performance to date this year, and our confidence of continued strong earnings power and cash flow in the future,” said Richard J. Meelia, Chairman, President and CEO.
“The combination of this dividend increase, coupled with our decision announced last week to significantly accelerate our share repurchase program, underscores our commitment to balance cash return to shareholders with reinvestment in our business. We continue to target returning 25% to 40% of free cash flow to shareholders annually,” Meelia added.
At the new rate, the annual dividend is $0.80 per ordinary share compared to the previous rate of $0.72 per ordinary share. The next quarterly dividend is payable on November 8, 2010, to shareholders of record on October 4, 2010.
Covidien is a healthcare products company that creates innovative medical solutions for better patient outcomes and delivers value through clinical leadership and excellence. Covidien manufactures, distributes and services a diverse range of industry-leading product lines in three segments: Medical Devices, Pharmaceuticals and Medical Supplies. With 2009 revenue of $10.3 billion, Covidien has 42,000 employees worldwide in more than 60 countries, and its products are sold in over 140 countries.
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. (Nasdaq: CBRL) September 24, 2010, Lebanon, TN announced that its board of directors has increased the company's quarterly dividend by 10%, declaring a regular quarterly dividend of $0.22 per share, an increase from the previous quarterly dividend of $0.20 per share. The dividend is payable on November 5, 2010 to shareholders of record on October 15, 2010.
Over the last five years, Cracker Barrel has delivered a compounded annual growth rate in the quarterly dividend of 11%.
"We are pleased to demonstrate confidence in the Company's long term performance with this 10% increase in the quarterly dividend," said Cracker Barrel Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer Michael A. Woodhouse. He added, "Cracker Barrel continues to deliver solid results despite the difficult economy. We have been able to do this by consistently providing the quality products, genuine hospitality and honest value that our guests expect. We are pleased with the success of our operational initiatives and their contribution to building sales and guest traffic."
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store restaurants provide home-style food and shopping that is reminiscent of America's country heritage. The restaurants serve home-style country food such as meatloaf and homemade chicken n' dumplins. Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. was established in 1969 in Lebanon, Tenness. and operates 595 company-owned locations in 41 states. Every Cracker Barrel unit is open seven days a week with hours Sunday through Thursday, 6 a.m. -- 10 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 6 a.m. - 11 p.m
CreXus Investment Corp. (NYSE: CXS) September 20, 2010, New York, NY, announced the third quarter 2010 common stock cash dividend of $0.17 per common share. This dividend is payable October 28, 2010 to common shareholders of record on September 30, 2010. The ex-dividend date is September 28, 2010.
This dividend is an increase from the $0.12 dividend paid per share in the second quarter, 2010.
Kevin Riordan, the Chief Executive Officer and President of CreXus, commented on the company's results. "Our third quarter dividend increase reflects the implementation of our strategy and the significant progress we have made in ramping up our portfolio. While these results do not reflect our full run rate, our pipeline of actionable investment opportunities is growing and I believe our prudent and careful diligence process will reward investors over the long-term."
CreXus distributes dividends based on its current estimate of taxable earnings per common share, not GAAP earnings. Taxable and GAAP earnings will typically differ due to items such as differences in premium amortization and discount accretion, non-taxable unrealized and realized gains and losses, credit loss recognition, and non-deductible general and administrative expenses.
CreXus acquires, manages, and finances, directly or through its subsidiaries, commercial mortgage loans and other commercial real estate-related debt, commercial mortgage-backed securities, other commercial real estate-related assets, and, to the extent necessary for regulatory purposes, residential mortgage-backed securities. Our principal business objective is to provide attractive risk-adjusted returns to our investors over the long-term, primarily through dividends and secondarily through capital appreciation. We are a Maryland corporation that has elected to be taxed as a real estate investment trust ("REIT"), and currently have 18,120,112 shares of common stock outstanding.
CSX Corporation (NYSE: CSX) September 29, 2010, Jacksonville, FL, board of directors of CSX Corporation voted to approve an 8 percent increase in the quarterly dividend on the company's common stock.
The quarterly dividend, which increases from $0.24 to $0.26 per share, is payable on December 15, 2010 to stockholders of record on November 30, 2010. This marks CSX's eighth increase during the past five years.
"As we meet our customers' growing transportation needs, we are able to provide strong returns to our shareholders," said Michael J. Ward, chairman, president and chief executive officer. "Today's announcement is consistent with our commitment to doing both things well."
CSX Corporation, based in Jacksonville, Fla., is one of the nation's leading transportation companies, providing rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services. The company's transportation network spans approximately 21,000 miles, with service to 23 eastern states and the District of Columbia, and connects to more than 70 ocean, river and lake ports.
Darden Restaurants (NYSE: DRI) September 21, 2010, Orlando, FL, reported sales and diluted net earnings per share for the fiscal first quarter ended August 29, 2010. In the first quarter, diluted net earnings per share from continuing operations increased 19% to 80 cents, versus 67 cents in the prior year.
First quarter sales from continuing operations were $1.81 billion, compared to $1.73 billion in the prior year, a 4.2% increase. Blended same-restaurant sales for Olive Garden, Red Lobster and LongHorn Steakhouse were up 1.1% this quarter, which compares to an estimate of 0.0% for the Knapp-Track™ benchmark of U.S. same-restaurant sales, excluding Darden.
"We are pleased with our very strong financial performance this quarter and encouraged by the continued improvement in industry sales trends," said Clarence Otis, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Darden. "Same-restaurant sales results for the Knapp-Track™ benchmark were one percentage point better in this quarter than in our last fiscal quarter. And, on a blended basis, our three core brands once again exceeded the industry average. Though it's improving, the environment remains challenging. With our competitively strong brands and the talented people who drive them, we are confident we can continue to successfully handle the challenges. In fiscal 2011, we will remain focused on delivering another year of superior sales results and earnings growth while doing what's necessary to position ourselves for sustainable, long-term success."
In the first quarter, U.S. same-restaurant sales increased 2.7% at Olive Garden and 2.2% at LongHorn Steakhouse, and declined 1.7% at Red Lobster. These results compare to an estimate of 0.0% for the Knapp-Track™ benchmark of U.S. same-restaurant sales, excluding Darden.
The company's board of directors declared a quarterly dividend of 32 cents per share on the company's outstanding common stock. The dividend is payable on November 1, 2010 to shareholders of record at the close of business on October 8, 2010.
The company purchased almost 2.4 million shares of its common stock during the quarter. Since commencing its repurchase program in December 1995, the company has purchased 156.5 million shares for $3.11 billion, under authorizations totaling 162.4 million shares.
Emera Inc. (TSX: EMA) September 24, 2010, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, board of directors approved a quarterly dividend of $0.3250, or $1.30 annually, per common share payable on and after November 15, 2010, to common shareholders of record at the close of business on November 1, 2010. As well, the board of directors also approved a quarterly dividend of $0.2750, or $1.10 annually, per Series A First Preferred Share payable on and after November 15, 2010, to Series A First Preferred shareholders of record at the close of business on November 1, 2010.
"We have committed to grow our common dividend as our earnings increase," said Chris Huskilson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Emera Inc. "This 17 cent annual increase in our common dividend reflects the continuing success of our strategy. We know our dividend is important to our shareholders, and we are pleased to be able to provide for this 15% increase."
Pursuant to the Income Tax Act (Canada) and corresponding provincial legislation, Emera Inc. hereby notifies its common shareholders and its Series A First Preferred shareholders that such dividends declared qualify as eligible dividends.
Emera Inc. (EMA and EMA.PR.A -TSX) is an energy and services company with $5.7 billion in assets. Electricity is Emera's core business. Approximately 94% of Emera's revenues are earned by Nova Scotia Power Inc (NSPI), Bangor Hydro Electric Company (BHE) and the Brunswick Pipeline. NSPI and BHE are wholly-owned regulated electric utilities which together serve 603,000 customers. The Brunswick Pipeline is a 145 km gas pipeline in New Brunswick.
Emera also owns 38% of Barbados Light and Power which serves 120,000 customers on the Caribbean island of Barbados, 19% of St. Lucia Electricity Services Limited, which serves more than 50,000 customers on the Caribbean island of St. Lucia and 25% of Grand Bahama Power Company which serves 19,000 customers on the Caribbean island of Grand Bahama. In addition to its electric utility investments, Emera owns Bayside Power, a 260 MW gas-fired power plant in Saint John, New Brunswick; Emera Energy Services, a physical natural gas and power marketing and asset management business; a joint venture interest in Bear Swamp, a 600 megawatt pumped storage hydro-electric facility in northern Massachusetts; a 12.9% interest in the Maritimes & Northeast Pipeline; and an 8.2% interest in Open Hydro.
The First of Long Island Corporation (Nasdaq: FLIC) September 22, 2010, Glen Head, NY, announced today the declaration of a third quarter cash dividend in the amount of 22 cents per share. This represents a 10% increase over the dividend of 20 cents per share paid last quarter and in the same quarter last year. The dividend will be paid on October 15, 2010 to shareholders of record on October 5, 2010.
The First National Bank of Long Island is the sole subsidiary of The First of Long Island Corporation. The Bank currently has nineteen full service offices, twelve commercial banking offices and two select service banking centers in Nassau and Suffolk Counties and Manhattan.
Hingham Institution for Savings (Nasdaq -- HIFS), September 23, 2010, Hingham, MA announced that its board of directors declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.24 per share. The dividend will be paid on October 20, 2010 to stockholders of record as of October 8, 2010.
Robert H. Gaughen, Jr., President and Chief Executive Officer of the Bank, in announcing the dividend, stated, "This 67th consecutive quarterly dividend represents a 4.3% increase over the prior quarter's dividend. We remain committed to our traditionally conservative strategies and practices. Our record results are especially pleasing in light of current events. We are proud of the fact that we have increased cash dividends to shareholders in each of the past 15 years."
In addition to regular quarterly cash dividends, Hingham Institution for Savings has declared special cash dividends in each of the last fifteen years. Future dividends will be considered by the Board of Directors on a quarterly basis.
Hingham Institution for Savings is a Massachusetts-chartered savings bank located in Hingham, Massachusetts. Incorporated in 1834, it is the oldest financial institution headquartered in Hingham and one of the oldest in the Commonwealth. The Bank's main offices are located on Main Street, Hingham, Massachusetts 02043, phone (781) 749-2200. The Bank also maintains branch offices in South Hingham and the neighboring towns of Cohasset, Hull, Norwell, Scituate, and Weymouth, as well as the South End of Boston.
IndigoVision (Lon, AIM: IND ) September 29, 2010 Edinburgh, Scotland, announced a fifty percent increased dividend payment. Dividend was increased to 7.5 pence up from the 2009 dividend of 5.0 pence.
Oliver Vellacott, Chief Executive said: “As anticipated, the year under review proved to be particularly challenging given the economic backdrop. Whilst the Company saw a mixed performance across the regions in which it operates, operating margins held up well and cash generation remained positive. The increase in spend on research and product development, up by nearly a third against the previous year, was largely absorbed by reductions in other operating costs. We have had an encouraging start to the current year, with sales comfortably ahead of last year, although performance across the regions remains mixed. We are therefore cautiously optimistic in relation to the current year. Reflecting that confidence, the board is recommending an increased dividend to shareholders.”
IndigoVision is a leading manufacturer of complete end-to-end IP video security solutions. IndigoVision is widely chosen for applications in airports, city centers, retail, ports, mines, road and rail systems, education, banking, casinos, prisons, government and the military. These enterprise-class systems improve organizations' operational efficiency, enhance public safety and enable timely emergency response. IndigoVision is headquartered in Edinburgh UK, with local sales and support offices across the world. IndigoVision partners with some 290 authorized system integrators and installers in 64 countries to provide local system design, installation and service to end users. IndigoVision has extensive reference sites including 7 rail networks, 2 of the world's top 5 banks, 28 airports and two Olympic Games. Around the world 27 casinos consisting of over 8000 cameras, have chosen IndigoVision's IP Video solution, reinforcing the company's position as the market leader in this demanding industry. IndigoVision develops its technology in-house, including a rich suite of hardware products and 'Control Center', its flagship Security Management Software (SMS). The focus on redundant, resilient and secure systems, coupled with integrated video analytics to support investigation, is what sets IndigoVision apart in providing enterprise network solutions. Whether the requirement is for a small site, a large site, an enterprise, or an alarm receiving center, all are provisioned by IndigoVision.
IndigoVision PLC is incorporated in Scotland (Registration Number SC208809) which is also its main country of operation.
The Company is not listed on any exchanges or trading platforms other than Alternative Investment Market (AIM) of the London Stock Exchange.
There have been no circulars or similar publications within the last 12 months. Share ownership is concentrated in one individual and several institutions: Oliver Richard Vellacott (23.4%), Strategos Fund, LP, Strategos Master Fund LP (10.9), UBS Securities LLC (4.1%) and Saracen Growth Fund (3.5%)
Lockheed Martin Corporation [NYSE: LMT] September 23, 2010, Bethesda, MD, announced that its board of directors has authorized a fourth quarter 2010 dividend of $0.75 per-share. This is the eighth consecutive annual increase in Lockheed Martin’s quarterly dividend rate, which is a $0.12 or 19 percent increase over the prior quarter.
The dividend is payable Dec. 31, 2010 to holders of record as of the close of business on Dec. 1, 2010. Payment of future quarterly dividends is subject to board authorization.
Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs about 136,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The Corporation’s 2009 sales from continuing operations were $44.5 billion.
McDonald's Corporation (NYSE: MCD) September 23, 2010, Oakbrook, IL boosted its quarterly dividend by 11%, continuing a series of increased payouts every year since the fast-food chain's first dividend 34 years ago.
McDonald's board of directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.61 per share of common stock payable on December 15, 2010 to shareholders of record at the close of business on December 1, 2010. This represents an 11% increase over the Company's previous quarterly dividend rate and brings the fourth quarter dividend payout to approximately $650 million.
McDonald's Chief Executive Officer Jim Skinner said, "With today's announced dividend increase, we expect the 2010 total cash returned to shareholders to be approximately $5 billion, split between dividends and share repurchases."
Skinner continued, "Our ongoing financial performance reflects the strength of the McDonald's system and resilience of our Plan to Win. We remain committed to maintaining financial discipline and enhancing shareholder value. Our first priority is to reinvest in our business by allocating capital where we expect to drive sales and cash flow, generating strong returns. After these investment opportunities, we expect to return all of our free cash flow to shareholders over the long term through dividends and share repurchases. Today's dividend increase demonstrates our confidence in the long-term strength of our Brand."
McDonald's has raised its dividend each and every year since paying its first dividend in 1976. The new quarterly dividend of $0.61 per share.
Microsoft Corporation (Nasdaq: )MSFT) September 21, 2010, Redmond, WA, announced that its board of directors declared a quarterly dividend of $0.16 per share, reflecting a 3 cent or 23 percent increase over the previous quarter's dividend. The dividend is payable December 9, 2010 to shareholders of record on November 18, 2010. The ex-dividend date will be November 16, 2010.
"This higher dividend, combined with our ongoing share repurchase program, reflects our commitment to returning capital to our shareholders and our confidence in the long-term growth of the company," said Peter Klein, chief financial officer of Microsoft.
For the ten years ending June 30, 2010, Microsoft has returned nearly $170 billion to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases. Under the most recent share repurchase plan approved by the Microsoft board in September 2008, the company has approximately $23.7 billion in share repurchase authorization remaining as of June 30, 2010.
Microsoft also announced that its board of directors authorized up to $6 billion in incremental commercial paper and longer-term debt.
Microsoft was founded in 1975.
Northwest Natural Gas Company (NYSE:NWN), dba NW Natural, October 4, 2010, Portland, OR, has increased the quarterly dividend on the company's common stock to 43.5 cents from 41.5 cents per share, an increase of 5 percent. The dividends will be paid Nov. 15, 2010, to shareholders of record on Oct. 29, 2010.
NW Natural will have paid $1.68 per share in dividends on its common stock in 2010, the 55th consecutive year in which the company's dividend payments have increased. The indicated annual dividend rate is now $1.74 per share.
NW Natural is headquartered in Portland, Ore., and served more than 670,000 residential and business customers in Oregon and southwest Washington at the end of the company's second quarter on June 30th. The company has approximately $2.4 billion in total assets, which includes approximately 16 Bcf of underground gas storage capacity within its service territory at Mist, Ore., a 75 percent interest in the 20-Bcf capacity Gill Ranch Storage underground natural gas facility near Fresno, Calif., and a pipeline project in Oregon. As noted, NW Natural has increased its dividends paid on common stock for 55 consecutive years, one of only a handful of public companies to achieve this mark.
Park Electrochemical Corp. (NYSE: PKE) September 24, 2010, Melville, NY, board of directors declared a regular quarterly dividend of $0.10 per share payable Nov. 5 to stockholders of record at the close of business on Oct. 7.
In a release on Sept. 16, the company said this dividend is the 101st consecutive quarterly cash dividend declared and paid by Park Electrochemical Corp. during the last 25 years, beginning in September 1985.
The first quarterly dividend was $0.01 per share (adjusted for stock splits), and the dividend has been increased on seven occasions, with the most recent increase having been from $0.08 to $0.10 per share declared in July 2009.
During the last 25 years, Park said it has never skipped a quarterly cash dividend, and Park's quarterly cash dividend has never been reduced.
Park Electrochemical Corp. is a global materials company that develops and manufactures high-technology digital and RF/microwave printed circuit materials principally for the telecommunications and internet infrastructure and computing markets and composite materials, parts and assemblies principally for the aerospace markets.
The Company's manufacturing facilities are located in Singapore, China, France, Connecticut, Kansas, Arizona, California and Washington.
Propalms, Inc. (pinksheets:PRPM) September 30, 2010, Orlando, FL announced during the Company's nationwide teleconference that its board of directors has approved a dividend of National Energy Services Co., Inc. common shares for shareholders of record as of November 3, 2010. Propalms shareholders are to receive 1 (one) share of restricted National Energy Services stock for every 30 (thirty) shares they own of Propalms as of the record date; no fractional shares shall be issued.
As a part of the teleconference, Owen Dukes, CEO of Propalms, was able to update the financial community on Propalms' new corporate strategy, the sale of its subsidiary Propalms Ltd. and what the impact of the sale will have on the company and its shareholders. Robert Zysblat, President of Propalms, Inc., discussed the company's new focus on buying and selling revenue generating technology companies and the name change Propalms has filed with FINRA to better reflect the company's new corporate strategy.
Mr. Dukes and Mr. Zysblat explained the reasons behind the sale of Propalms Ltd. during yesterday's teleconference. Mr. Dukes stated, "It has always been our mission here at Propalms to increase shareholder value. Over the past few years management has become concerned about the stock price and feels it is our responsibility to improve the valuation for all of our shareholders." Robert Zysblat, President of Propalms, Inc., explained that Propalms Ltd. generated less than half a million dollars in revenues for the six month period ending July 31, 2010. In addition, Propalms Ltd. required significant new capital to expand. The sale of Propalms Ltd. enabled Propalms, Inc. to add $1 Million of National Energy Services Company, Inc. shares, an over the counter bulletin board company, to its asset base and reduce its liabilities by $1.3 Million. At the time of the sale, Propalms, Inc. improved its balance sheet by more than approximately 6 times the revenue it generated in the first six months.
Mr. Dukes also mentioned during the nationwide teleconference that through Propalms' new corporate strategy the company will be focused on buying and selling technology companies that are already revenue generating and are in the need of a strong management team, global distribution network, and capital in order to "make it to the next level." He also explained how Propalms, Inc. has signed a letter of intent to acquire Acute Systems, a Florida-based technology company, and expects to have the transaction completed within the next few weeks.
Mr. Zysblat announced that Propalms will be issuing a dividend of National Energy Services Co., Inc. stock to Propalms Inc. shareholders as well as a continuing plan to issue a dividend with every new spinoff. He also mentioned his focus under the new corporate strategy will be looking at select number of quoted technology companies that Propalms may take a financial interest in. If the company believes that the share price is undervalued and we can see potential growth, Propalms may consider to add input to the companies if the occasion requires.
Mr. Zysblat went on to explain the reasoning behind Propalms' filing for its recent name change during the teleconference. Mr. Zysblat stated, "Propalms, Inc. has adopted this new corporate strategy; it was better that the company had a name to better reflect this strategy and cause less confusion." Propalms, Inc. has registered its new domain name, made the required changes under the State of Nevada amendments and received its new CUSIP number. The Company is waiting to hear from FINRA on the exact date of the name change, but we will keep its shareholders up to date on any and all changes.
"We are extremely excited about the implementation of our new corporate strategy and are looking to grow our revenue significantly in the near future," stated Owen Dukes, CEO of Propalms, Inc.
Realty Income Corporation ( NYSE: O) September 21, 2010, Escondido, CA cnnounced that its Board of Directors has declared an increase in the Company's common stock monthly cash dividend to $0.1439375 per share from $0.143625 per share. The dividend is payable on October 15, 2010 to shareholders of record as of October 1, 2010. This is the 52nd consecutive quarterly increase and the 59th dividend increase since Realty Income went public in 1994. The new monthly dividend amount represents an annualized dividend amount of $1.72725 per share as compared to the previous annualized dividend amount of $1.7235 per share. The Company continues its long-term policy of declaring and paying dividends on a monthly, rather than on a quarterly, basis.
Tom A. Lewis, Chief Executive Officer of Realty Income commented, "We are pleased that our operations allow us to once again increase the amount of the dividend we pay to our shareholders. With the payment of the October dividend we will have made 483 consecutive monthly dividend payments."
Realty Income, The Monthly Dividend Company(R), is a New York Stock Exchange real estate company dedicated to providing shareholders with dependable monthly income. To date the Company has declared 483 consecutive common stock monthly dividends throughout its 41-year operating history and increased the dividend 59 times since Realty Income's listing on the New York Stock Exchange in 1994. The monthly income is supported by the cash flow from over 2,300 properties owned under long-term lease agreements with regional and national retail chains and other commercial enterprises. The Company is an active buyer of net-leased properties nationwide.
Sanderson Farms, Inc. (Nasdaq: SAFM) September 23, 2010, Laurel, MS, announced that its board of directors has declared a regular cash quarterly dividend of $0.17 (seventeen cents) per share payable October 19, 2010, to stockholders of record on October 5, 2010. This represents a new annual dividend rate of $0.68 (sixty-eight cents) per share. Payment of the regular quarterly dividend will remain subject to board approval each quarter.
"The Board's decision to increase our dividend rate reflects Sanderson Farms' solid operating performance in fiscal 2010, the Company's strong financial position, and our confidence in the future," commented Joe F. Sanderson, Jr., president and chief executive officer of Sanderson Farms. "Our consistent growth and solid execution of our operating strategy provide us with confidence in the future of Sanderson Farms. We are pleased to be in a position to allow the Board to take these actions and provide this opportunity to reward our shareholders."
Sanderson Farms, Inc. is engaged in the production, processing, marketing and distribution of fresh and frozen chicken and other prepared food items.
Thor Industries, Inc. (NYSE: THO) October 1, 2010, Jackson Center, OH announced that its board of directors approved an increase of its regular quarterly dividend to 10 cents per share. This represents a 43% increase over its previous regular dividend of 7 cents per share. The new regular dividend will be paid on October 29, 2010 to shareholders of record on October 18, 2010.
Thor is the world's largest manufacturer of recreation vehicles and a major builder of commercial buses and ambulances.
West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc. (NYSE: WST) October 4, 2010, Lionville, PA announced that its Board of Directors has approved an increase of one cent per share in the Company's quarterly cash dividend, to $0.17 per share, beginning in the fourth quarter of 2010. The 6.25% increase is the eighteenth consecutive annual increase in the Company's quarterly dividend. The fourth quarter dividend will be paid on November 3, 2010 to shareholders of record on October 20, 2010.
West is a global manufacturer of components and systems for injectable drug delivery, including stoppers and seals for vials, and closures and disposable components used in syringe, IV and blood collection systems. The Company also provides products with application to the personal care, food and beverage markets. Headquartered in Lionville, Pennsylvania, West supports its partners and customers from 50 locations throughout North America, South America, Europe, Mexico, Japan, Asia and Australia. For more information, visit West at www.westpharma.com.
WD-40 Company (Nasdaq: WDFC) October 1, 2010, San Diego, CA, announced that its board of directors declared an increase in the regular quarterly dividend to $.27 per share, payable October 29, 2010 to stockholders of record on October 14, 2010.
WD-40 Company, with headquarters in San Diego, is a global consumer product company offering a variety of maintenance products. The company markets three multi-purpose maintenance product brands – WD-40®, 3-IN-ONE® and BLUE WORKS™ – and eight homecare and cleaning product brands: X-14® hard surface cleaners and automatic toilet bowl cleaners, 2000 Flushes® automatic toilet bowl cleaners, Carpet Fresh® and No Vac® rug and room deodorizers, Spot Shot® aerosol and liquid carpet stain removers, 1001® carpet, household cleaners and rug and room deodorizers, and Lava® and Solvol® heavy-duty hand cleaners.
WD-40 Company markets its products in more than 160 countries worldwide and recorded sales of $292 million in fiscal year 2009.
HELP BEXLEY PUBLIC RADIO UPGRADE ITS ANTENNA. SEND YOUR MONEY PROMPTLY. BE GENEROUS.
Bexley Public Radio Foundation broadcasting as
WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM, Local Power Radio
2700 E. Main St., Suite 208
Columbus, OH 43209
Voice (614) 235 2929
Fax (614) 235 3008
Email wcrxlp@yahoo.com
Blog http://agentofcurrency.blogspot.com
Bexley Public Radio Foundation is exempt from federal taxes under IRC Section 501(c)(3). Donations are deductible from federal income taxes for individuals who itemize. Checks may identify the payee as Bexley Public Radio Foundation or WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM.
Design is copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Bexley Public Radio Foundation. Text and photo are copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Laura Franks.
On the list are four companies that caught my eye as simply interesting for different non-financial reasons.
Park Electrochemical Corp is a major manufacturer of circuit boards used in telecommunications and the internet infra-structure. It is a large, if obscure, American company.
Atlantic Tele-Network, Inc. is a small telecommunications company operating in small markets. It provides telephone services in American rural markets and in the islands of Bermuda and other islands in the Caribbean.
Two interesting companies to study and make speculations about are a Scottish company, IndigoVision, and a Florida company, Propalms Inc. I think IndigoVision is interesting to study because of its concentrated ownership. Propalms, Inc. is interesting to try to decipher exactly what it does. Both provide opportunities to exercise analytical skills.
The entire list of companies raising their dividend pay-outs is:
Accenture
Arlington Asset Investment Corp.
Atlantic Tele-Network
Bank of the Ozarks
Clarcor
Claymore Dividend and Income Fund
Comtech Telecommunications Corp.
ConAgra Foods, Inc.
Covidien plc Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc.
CreXus Investment Corp.
CSX Corporation
Darden Restaurants, Inc.
Emera Inc.
The First of Long Island Corporation
Hingham Institution for Savings
IndigoVision
Lockheed Martin Corporation
McDonald’s
Microsoft Corp.
Northwest Natural Gas Company
Park Electrochemical Corp.
Propalms, Inc.
Realty Income Corporation
Sanderson Farms, Inc.
Thor Industries, Inc.
West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc.
WD-40 Company
Accenture (NYSE: ACN) September 30, 2010, New York, NY increased its semi-annual cash dividend to $0.45 per share. This is an increase of 7.5 cents per share, or 20 percent, over its previous semi-annual dividend, declared in March.
For fiscal year 2011, Accenture continues to expect net revenue growth of 7% to 10% in local currency and increases outlook for annual EPS growth to 13% to 16%.
Accenture reported strong financial results for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2010, ended Aug. 31, and full-year results in line with the company's expectations.
William D. Green, Accenture's chairman & CEO, said, "We're very pleased with our financial results, with our strong fourth-quarter performance demonstrating further evidence of our growth and momentum. We managed our business well and accelerated actions to grow revenue and expand operating margin. And our strong bookings -- including consulting bookings of more than $3.5 billion -- show increasing demand for our services. We generated significant free cash flow, and our balance sheet remains exceptionally strong. We continued our commitment to return cash to shareholders through an increased semi-annual cash dividend, declared today, and through the repurchase of more than $2 billion of our shares during fiscal 2010.
Accenture plc is a management consulting, technology services and outsourcing company. Its business is organized in five operating groups: Communications & High Tech, Financial Services, Health & Public Service, Products and Resources. In October 2009, the Company acquired Symbian Professional Services from Nokia Corporation. In February 2010, the Company completed the acquisition of RiskControl, a consulting company based in Rio de Janeiro. In July 2010, the Company acquired Acceria.
Arlington Asset Investment Corp. (NYSE: AI) September 20, 2010, Arlington, VA, announced that its board of directors declared a dividend of $0.60 per share for the third quarter of 2010. The dividend will be payable on October 29, 2010 to shareholders of record on September 30, 2010. This dividend is a continuance of the company's variable dividend policy. The board of directors will continue to assess appropriate dividend payouts and policy in future periods.
During the third quarter of 2010, the company repurchased 193,824 shares of its Class A common stock at an average price of $19.84 per share. The company now has remaining authorization to repurchase up to 277,154 shares of its Class A common stock under its current repurchase program.
"Consistent with the company's variable dividend policy, today's $0.25 per share increase in the third quarter dividend reflects continued favorable performance in the company's investment portfolio. Given the company's tax status as a C-corporation with approximately $800 million of combined net operating and capital loss carry-forwards, shareholders are able to simultaneously benefit from the tax efficient return of cash as well as potential growth in the company's book value from portfolio income and potential realized investment gains in future periods. Taken together with the company's share repurchases during the quarter, we believe this increased dividend demonstrates the company's balanced ability to deliver to its shareholders an attractive and tax efficient total return from the combination of dividend yield and the potential for growth in book value for portfolio reinvestment, share repurchases and other initiatives," said J. Rock Tonkel, Jr., President and Chief Operating Officer.
Arlington Asset Investment Corp. is a principal investment firm that invests primarily in mortgage-related assets. The company is headquartered in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area.
Atlantic Tele-Network, Inc. (NASDAQ:ATNI) September 27, 2010, Beverly, MA announced that its board of directors has declared a quarterly dividend of $0.22 per share, payable on October 12, 2010, on all common shares outstanding to stockholders of record as of October 6, 2010. This is the twelfth consecutive annual increase in the company’s dividend and represents an increase of two cents, or 10%, in the dividend paid in the previous quarter. If maintained, this equates to an annual increase of eight cents, from $0.80 per share to $0.88 per share.
Michael T. Prior, Chief Executive Officer of the Company, said, “This dividend increase reflects our ongoing commitment to maintain strong current returns for our shareholders while preserving funding for our future growth.”
Atlantic Tele-Network, Inc, headquartered in Beverly, Massachusetts, provides telecommunications services to rural, niche and other under-served markets and geographies in the United States, Bermuda and the Caribbean. Through our operating subsidiaries, we provide both wireless and wireline connectivity to residential and business customers, including a range of mobile wireless solutions, local exchange services and broadband internet services and are the owner and operator of terrestrial and submarine fiber optic transport systems.
Bank of the Ozarks, (Nasdaq: OZRK) October 1, 2010, Little Rock, AR, announced its board of directors has approved a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.16 per common share payable October 22, 2010 to shareholders of record as of October 15, 2010. The dividend of $0.16 per share represents an increase of $0.01 per share, or 6.7%, over the dividend paid in the previous quarter. This is the second increase in the Company's quarterly dividend this year.
Bank of the Ozarks, Inc. is a bank holding company with $2.88 billion in total assets as of June 30, 2010. The company owns a state-chartered subsidiary bank that conducts banking operations through 90 offices in Arkansas, Texas, Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina and Alabama.
CLARCOR Inc. (NYSE: CLC) September 30, 2010, Franklin, TN, announced that its board of directors declared an increase in the regular quarterly dividend from $0.0975 per share to $0.105 per share. This increase raises the annual rate from $0.39 per share to $0.42 per share, a 7.7% increase and the company's 27th consecutive annual increase. The dividend is payable October 22, 2010 to shareholders of record October 8, 2010.
CLARCOR is based in Franklin, Tennessee and is a diversified marketer and manufacturer of mobile, industrial and environmental filtration products and consumer and industrial packaging products sold in domestic and international markets.
Claymore Dividend & Income Fund (NYSE: DCS) October 1, 2010, Lisle, IL, announced that it will distribute dividends among all its shareholders in the running financial year. The closed-end management investment company said it is increasing its quarterly dividend by 25% to $0.125 per share, effective with its November 2010 dividend. The increased dividend compares to the $0.10 per share for the Fund’s most recent dividend.
The company said the November 2010 dividend will be paid on November 30, 2010 to shareholders of record as of November 15, 2010 with an ex-dividend date of November 10, 2010.
Comtech Telecommunications Corp. (Nasdaq: CMTL) September 23, 2010, Melville, NY, announced that its board of directors has approved the initiation of a quarterly cash dividend on shares of Comtech common stock. The first quarterly dividend payment of $0.25 per share will be paid on November 22, 2010 to shareholders of record at the close of business on October 22, 2010. While future dividends will be subject to Board approval, the Board of Directors is initially targeting an annual dividend of $1.00 per share per year.
Comtech today also announced that its Board of Directors has authorized the repurchase of up to $100.0 million of Comtech common stock. These repurchases may be made in open-market or privately negotiated transactions and may be made pursuant to SEC Rule 10b5-1 trading plans. The Company announced that it intends to begin repurchasing stock on September 27, 2010, which is the first date that the Company's year-end trading window opens.
"As we look to fiscal 2011 and beyond, we are confident in the overall strength of our business and its ability to continue to generate the strong cash flows that would enable the Company to return cash to our shareholders through a quarterly dividend," said Fred Kornberg, President and Chief Executive Officer of Comtech.
Mr. Kornberg added, "As of the end of our fiscal year on July 31, 2010, we had over $600.0 million of cash and cash equivalents and our stock represents an attractive investment opportunity. In addition, we intend to continue to pursue strategic acquisitions that we believe will drive long-term growth and shareholder value."
Comtech Telecommunications Corp. designs, develops, produces and markets innovative products, systems and services for advanced communications solutions. The company believes many of its solutions play a vital role in providing or enhancing communication capabilities when terrestrial communications infrastructure is unavailable, inefficient or too expensive. The company conducts business through three complementary segments: telecommunications transmission, mobile data communications and RF microwave amplifiers. The company sells products to a diverse customer base in the global commercial and government communications markets. The company believes it is a market leader in the market segments that it serves.
ConAgra Foods, Inc. (NYSE: CAG) September 21, 2010, Omaha, NE raised the annualized dividend 15% to $0.92 per share from $0.80 per share. The new quarterly rate of $0.23 per share will be effective with the December 2010 payment.
ConAgra Foods, Inc., a packaged food company, reported results for the fiscal 2011 first quarter ended Aug. 29, 2010. Diluted EPS from continuing operations was $0.32, including $0.02 per diluted share of net expense from items impacting comparability. Adjusting for those items, diluted EPS from continuing operations was $0.34, which is below comparable year-ago amounts. For the same period a year ago, diluted EPS from continuing operations as reported was $0.37, which included $0.01 of expense from items impacting comparability. Items impacting comparability in the current year and prior year are summarized toward the end of this release.
Gary Rodkin, ConAgra Foods' chief executive officer, said, "Our fiscal first-quarter margins and EPS were lower than planned because of an intense promotional environment and inflation that outpaced cost savings. There were, however, several signs of strength in terms of market share and brand sales, demonstrating progress and growth potential for important parts of our portfolio."
Covidien plc (NYSE: COV) September 23, 2010, Dublin, Ireland, announced that its board of directors has declared an 11% increase in the quarterly dividend rate, from $0.18 per ordinary share to $0.20 per ordinary share.
“This marks the second dividend increase in the last twelve months, reflecting our good performance to date this year, and our confidence of continued strong earnings power and cash flow in the future,” said Richard J. Meelia, Chairman, President and CEO.
“The combination of this dividend increase, coupled with our decision announced last week to significantly accelerate our share repurchase program, underscores our commitment to balance cash return to shareholders with reinvestment in our business. We continue to target returning 25% to 40% of free cash flow to shareholders annually,” Meelia added.
At the new rate, the annual dividend is $0.80 per ordinary share compared to the previous rate of $0.72 per ordinary share. The next quarterly dividend is payable on November 8, 2010, to shareholders of record on October 4, 2010.
Covidien is a healthcare products company that creates innovative medical solutions for better patient outcomes and delivers value through clinical leadership and excellence. Covidien manufactures, distributes and services a diverse range of industry-leading product lines in three segments: Medical Devices, Pharmaceuticals and Medical Supplies. With 2009 revenue of $10.3 billion, Covidien has 42,000 employees worldwide in more than 60 countries, and its products are sold in over 140 countries.
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. (Nasdaq: CBRL) September 24, 2010, Lebanon, TN announced that its board of directors has increased the company's quarterly dividend by 10%, declaring a regular quarterly dividend of $0.22 per share, an increase from the previous quarterly dividend of $0.20 per share. The dividend is payable on November 5, 2010 to shareholders of record on October 15, 2010.
Over the last five years, Cracker Barrel has delivered a compounded annual growth rate in the quarterly dividend of 11%.
"We are pleased to demonstrate confidence in the Company's long term performance with this 10% increase in the quarterly dividend," said Cracker Barrel Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer Michael A. Woodhouse. He added, "Cracker Barrel continues to deliver solid results despite the difficult economy. We have been able to do this by consistently providing the quality products, genuine hospitality and honest value that our guests expect. We are pleased with the success of our operational initiatives and their contribution to building sales and guest traffic."
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store restaurants provide home-style food and shopping that is reminiscent of America's country heritage. The restaurants serve home-style country food such as meatloaf and homemade chicken n' dumplins. Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. was established in 1969 in Lebanon, Tenness. and operates 595 company-owned locations in 41 states. Every Cracker Barrel unit is open seven days a week with hours Sunday through Thursday, 6 a.m. -- 10 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 6 a.m. - 11 p.m
CreXus Investment Corp. (NYSE: CXS) September 20, 2010, New York, NY, announced the third quarter 2010 common stock cash dividend of $0.17 per common share. This dividend is payable October 28, 2010 to common shareholders of record on September 30, 2010. The ex-dividend date is September 28, 2010.
This dividend is an increase from the $0.12 dividend paid per share in the second quarter, 2010.
Kevin Riordan, the Chief Executive Officer and President of CreXus, commented on the company's results. "Our third quarter dividend increase reflects the implementation of our strategy and the significant progress we have made in ramping up our portfolio. While these results do not reflect our full run rate, our pipeline of actionable investment opportunities is growing and I believe our prudent and careful diligence process will reward investors over the long-term."
CreXus distributes dividends based on its current estimate of taxable earnings per common share, not GAAP earnings. Taxable and GAAP earnings will typically differ due to items such as differences in premium amortization and discount accretion, non-taxable unrealized and realized gains and losses, credit loss recognition, and non-deductible general and administrative expenses.
CreXus acquires, manages, and finances, directly or through its subsidiaries, commercial mortgage loans and other commercial real estate-related debt, commercial mortgage-backed securities, other commercial real estate-related assets, and, to the extent necessary for regulatory purposes, residential mortgage-backed securities. Our principal business objective is to provide attractive risk-adjusted returns to our investors over the long-term, primarily through dividends and secondarily through capital appreciation. We are a Maryland corporation that has elected to be taxed as a real estate investment trust ("REIT"), and currently have 18,120,112 shares of common stock outstanding.
CSX Corporation (NYSE: CSX) September 29, 2010, Jacksonville, FL, board of directors of CSX Corporation voted to approve an 8 percent increase in the quarterly dividend on the company's common stock.
The quarterly dividend, which increases from $0.24 to $0.26 per share, is payable on December 15, 2010 to stockholders of record on November 30, 2010. This marks CSX's eighth increase during the past five years.
"As we meet our customers' growing transportation needs, we are able to provide strong returns to our shareholders," said Michael J. Ward, chairman, president and chief executive officer. "Today's announcement is consistent with our commitment to doing both things well."
CSX Corporation, based in Jacksonville, Fla., is one of the nation's leading transportation companies, providing rail, intermodal and rail-to-truck transload services. The company's transportation network spans approximately 21,000 miles, with service to 23 eastern states and the District of Columbia, and connects to more than 70 ocean, river and lake ports.
Darden Restaurants (NYSE: DRI) September 21, 2010, Orlando, FL, reported sales and diluted net earnings per share for the fiscal first quarter ended August 29, 2010. In the first quarter, diluted net earnings per share from continuing operations increased 19% to 80 cents, versus 67 cents in the prior year.
First quarter sales from continuing operations were $1.81 billion, compared to $1.73 billion in the prior year, a 4.2% increase. Blended same-restaurant sales for Olive Garden, Red Lobster and LongHorn Steakhouse were up 1.1% this quarter, which compares to an estimate of 0.0% for the Knapp-Track™ benchmark of U.S. same-restaurant sales, excluding Darden.
"We are pleased with our very strong financial performance this quarter and encouraged by the continued improvement in industry sales trends," said Clarence Otis, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Darden. "Same-restaurant sales results for the Knapp-Track™ benchmark were one percentage point better in this quarter than in our last fiscal quarter. And, on a blended basis, our three core brands once again exceeded the industry average. Though it's improving, the environment remains challenging. With our competitively strong brands and the talented people who drive them, we are confident we can continue to successfully handle the challenges. In fiscal 2011, we will remain focused on delivering another year of superior sales results and earnings growth while doing what's necessary to position ourselves for sustainable, long-term success."
In the first quarter, U.S. same-restaurant sales increased 2.7% at Olive Garden and 2.2% at LongHorn Steakhouse, and declined 1.7% at Red Lobster. These results compare to an estimate of 0.0% for the Knapp-Track™ benchmark of U.S. same-restaurant sales, excluding Darden.
The company's board of directors declared a quarterly dividend of 32 cents per share on the company's outstanding common stock. The dividend is payable on November 1, 2010 to shareholders of record at the close of business on October 8, 2010.
The company purchased almost 2.4 million shares of its common stock during the quarter. Since commencing its repurchase program in December 1995, the company has purchased 156.5 million shares for $3.11 billion, under authorizations totaling 162.4 million shares.
Emera Inc. (TSX: EMA) September 24, 2010, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, board of directors approved a quarterly dividend of $0.3250, or $1.30 annually, per common share payable on and after November 15, 2010, to common shareholders of record at the close of business on November 1, 2010. As well, the board of directors also approved a quarterly dividend of $0.2750, or $1.10 annually, per Series A First Preferred Share payable on and after November 15, 2010, to Series A First Preferred shareholders of record at the close of business on November 1, 2010.
"We have committed to grow our common dividend as our earnings increase," said Chris Huskilson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Emera Inc. "This 17 cent annual increase in our common dividend reflects the continuing success of our strategy. We know our dividend is important to our shareholders, and we are pleased to be able to provide for this 15% increase."
Pursuant to the Income Tax Act (Canada) and corresponding provincial legislation, Emera Inc. hereby notifies its common shareholders and its Series A First Preferred shareholders that such dividends declared qualify as eligible dividends.
Emera Inc. (EMA and EMA.PR.A -TSX) is an energy and services company with $5.7 billion in assets. Electricity is Emera's core business. Approximately 94% of Emera's revenues are earned by Nova Scotia Power Inc (NSPI), Bangor Hydro Electric Company (BHE) and the Brunswick Pipeline. NSPI and BHE are wholly-owned regulated electric utilities which together serve 603,000 customers. The Brunswick Pipeline is a 145 km gas pipeline in New Brunswick.
Emera also owns 38% of Barbados Light and Power which serves 120,000 customers on the Caribbean island of Barbados, 19% of St. Lucia Electricity Services Limited, which serves more than 50,000 customers on the Caribbean island of St. Lucia and 25% of Grand Bahama Power Company which serves 19,000 customers on the Caribbean island of Grand Bahama. In addition to its electric utility investments, Emera owns Bayside Power, a 260 MW gas-fired power plant in Saint John, New Brunswick; Emera Energy Services, a physical natural gas and power marketing and asset management business; a joint venture interest in Bear Swamp, a 600 megawatt pumped storage hydro-electric facility in northern Massachusetts; a 12.9% interest in the Maritimes & Northeast Pipeline; and an 8.2% interest in Open Hydro.
The First of Long Island Corporation (Nasdaq: FLIC) September 22, 2010, Glen Head, NY, announced today the declaration of a third quarter cash dividend in the amount of 22 cents per share. This represents a 10% increase over the dividend of 20 cents per share paid last quarter and in the same quarter last year. The dividend will be paid on October 15, 2010 to shareholders of record on October 5, 2010.
The First National Bank of Long Island is the sole subsidiary of The First of Long Island Corporation. The Bank currently has nineteen full service offices, twelve commercial banking offices and two select service banking centers in Nassau and Suffolk Counties and Manhattan.
Hingham Institution for Savings (Nasdaq -- HIFS), September 23, 2010, Hingham, MA announced that its board of directors declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.24 per share. The dividend will be paid on October 20, 2010 to stockholders of record as of October 8, 2010.
Robert H. Gaughen, Jr., President and Chief Executive Officer of the Bank, in announcing the dividend, stated, "This 67th consecutive quarterly dividend represents a 4.3% increase over the prior quarter's dividend. We remain committed to our traditionally conservative strategies and practices. Our record results are especially pleasing in light of current events. We are proud of the fact that we have increased cash dividends to shareholders in each of the past 15 years."
In addition to regular quarterly cash dividends, Hingham Institution for Savings has declared special cash dividends in each of the last fifteen years. Future dividends will be considered by the Board of Directors on a quarterly basis.
Hingham Institution for Savings is a Massachusetts-chartered savings bank located in Hingham, Massachusetts. Incorporated in 1834, it is the oldest financial institution headquartered in Hingham and one of the oldest in the Commonwealth. The Bank's main offices are located on Main Street, Hingham, Massachusetts 02043, phone (781) 749-2200. The Bank also maintains branch offices in South Hingham and the neighboring towns of Cohasset, Hull, Norwell, Scituate, and Weymouth, as well as the South End of Boston.
IndigoVision (Lon, AIM: IND ) September 29, 2010 Edinburgh, Scotland, announced a fifty percent increased dividend payment. Dividend was increased to 7.5 pence up from the 2009 dividend of 5.0 pence.
Oliver Vellacott, Chief Executive said: “As anticipated, the year under review proved to be particularly challenging given the economic backdrop. Whilst the Company saw a mixed performance across the regions in which it operates, operating margins held up well and cash generation remained positive. The increase in spend on research and product development, up by nearly a third against the previous year, was largely absorbed by reductions in other operating costs. We have had an encouraging start to the current year, with sales comfortably ahead of last year, although performance across the regions remains mixed. We are therefore cautiously optimistic in relation to the current year. Reflecting that confidence, the board is recommending an increased dividend to shareholders.”
IndigoVision is a leading manufacturer of complete end-to-end IP video security solutions. IndigoVision is widely chosen for applications in airports, city centers, retail, ports, mines, road and rail systems, education, banking, casinos, prisons, government and the military. These enterprise-class systems improve organizations' operational efficiency, enhance public safety and enable timely emergency response. IndigoVision is headquartered in Edinburgh UK, with local sales and support offices across the world. IndigoVision partners with some 290 authorized system integrators and installers in 64 countries to provide local system design, installation and service to end users. IndigoVision has extensive reference sites including 7 rail networks, 2 of the world's top 5 banks, 28 airports and two Olympic Games. Around the world 27 casinos consisting of over 8000 cameras, have chosen IndigoVision's IP Video solution, reinforcing the company's position as the market leader in this demanding industry. IndigoVision develops its technology in-house, including a rich suite of hardware products and 'Control Center', its flagship Security Management Software (SMS). The focus on redundant, resilient and secure systems, coupled with integrated video analytics to support investigation, is what sets IndigoVision apart in providing enterprise network solutions. Whether the requirement is for a small site, a large site, an enterprise, or an alarm receiving center, all are provisioned by IndigoVision.
IndigoVision PLC is incorporated in Scotland (Registration Number SC208809) which is also its main country of operation.
The Company is not listed on any exchanges or trading platforms other than Alternative Investment Market (AIM) of the London Stock Exchange.
There have been no circulars or similar publications within the last 12 months. Share ownership is concentrated in one individual and several institutions: Oliver Richard Vellacott (23.4%), Strategos Fund, LP, Strategos Master Fund LP (10.9), UBS Securities LLC (4.1%) and Saracen Growth Fund (3.5%)
Lockheed Martin Corporation [NYSE: LMT] September 23, 2010, Bethesda, MD, announced that its board of directors has authorized a fourth quarter 2010 dividend of $0.75 per-share. This is the eighth consecutive annual increase in Lockheed Martin’s quarterly dividend rate, which is a $0.12 or 19 percent increase over the prior quarter.
The dividend is payable Dec. 31, 2010 to holders of record as of the close of business on Dec. 1, 2010. Payment of future quarterly dividends is subject to board authorization.
Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs about 136,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The Corporation’s 2009 sales from continuing operations were $44.5 billion.
McDonald's Corporation (NYSE: MCD) September 23, 2010, Oakbrook, IL boosted its quarterly dividend by 11%, continuing a series of increased payouts every year since the fast-food chain's first dividend 34 years ago.
McDonald's board of directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.61 per share of common stock payable on December 15, 2010 to shareholders of record at the close of business on December 1, 2010. This represents an 11% increase over the Company's previous quarterly dividend rate and brings the fourth quarter dividend payout to approximately $650 million.
McDonald's Chief Executive Officer Jim Skinner said, "With today's announced dividend increase, we expect the 2010 total cash returned to shareholders to be approximately $5 billion, split between dividends and share repurchases."
Skinner continued, "Our ongoing financial performance reflects the strength of the McDonald's system and resilience of our Plan to Win. We remain committed to maintaining financial discipline and enhancing shareholder value. Our first priority is to reinvest in our business by allocating capital where we expect to drive sales and cash flow, generating strong returns. After these investment opportunities, we expect to return all of our free cash flow to shareholders over the long term through dividends and share repurchases. Today's dividend increase demonstrates our confidence in the long-term strength of our Brand."
McDonald's has raised its dividend each and every year since paying its first dividend in 1976. The new quarterly dividend of $0.61 per share.
Microsoft Corporation (Nasdaq: )MSFT) September 21, 2010, Redmond, WA, announced that its board of directors declared a quarterly dividend of $0.16 per share, reflecting a 3 cent or 23 percent increase over the previous quarter's dividend. The dividend is payable December 9, 2010 to shareholders of record on November 18, 2010. The ex-dividend date will be November 16, 2010.
"This higher dividend, combined with our ongoing share repurchase program, reflects our commitment to returning capital to our shareholders and our confidence in the long-term growth of the company," said Peter Klein, chief financial officer of Microsoft.
For the ten years ending June 30, 2010, Microsoft has returned nearly $170 billion to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases. Under the most recent share repurchase plan approved by the Microsoft board in September 2008, the company has approximately $23.7 billion in share repurchase authorization remaining as of June 30, 2010.
Microsoft also announced that its board of directors authorized up to $6 billion in incremental commercial paper and longer-term debt.
Microsoft was founded in 1975.
Northwest Natural Gas Company (NYSE:NWN), dba NW Natural, October 4, 2010, Portland, OR, has increased the quarterly dividend on the company's common stock to 43.5 cents from 41.5 cents per share, an increase of 5 percent. The dividends will be paid Nov. 15, 2010, to shareholders of record on Oct. 29, 2010.
NW Natural will have paid $1.68 per share in dividends on its common stock in 2010, the 55th consecutive year in which the company's dividend payments have increased. The indicated annual dividend rate is now $1.74 per share.
NW Natural is headquartered in Portland, Ore., and served more than 670,000 residential and business customers in Oregon and southwest Washington at the end of the company's second quarter on June 30th. The company has approximately $2.4 billion in total assets, which includes approximately 16 Bcf of underground gas storage capacity within its service territory at Mist, Ore., a 75 percent interest in the 20-Bcf capacity Gill Ranch Storage underground natural gas facility near Fresno, Calif., and a pipeline project in Oregon. As noted, NW Natural has increased its dividends paid on common stock for 55 consecutive years, one of only a handful of public companies to achieve this mark.
Park Electrochemical Corp. (NYSE: PKE) September 24, 2010, Melville, NY, board of directors declared a regular quarterly dividend of $0.10 per share payable Nov. 5 to stockholders of record at the close of business on Oct. 7.
In a release on Sept. 16, the company said this dividend is the 101st consecutive quarterly cash dividend declared and paid by Park Electrochemical Corp. during the last 25 years, beginning in September 1985.
The first quarterly dividend was $0.01 per share (adjusted for stock splits), and the dividend has been increased on seven occasions, with the most recent increase having been from $0.08 to $0.10 per share declared in July 2009.
During the last 25 years, Park said it has never skipped a quarterly cash dividend, and Park's quarterly cash dividend has never been reduced.
Park Electrochemical Corp. is a global materials company that develops and manufactures high-technology digital and RF/microwave printed circuit materials principally for the telecommunications and internet infrastructure and computing markets and composite materials, parts and assemblies principally for the aerospace markets.
The Company's manufacturing facilities are located in Singapore, China, France, Connecticut, Kansas, Arizona, California and Washington.
Propalms, Inc. (pinksheets:PRPM) September 30, 2010, Orlando, FL announced during the Company's nationwide teleconference that its board of directors has approved a dividend of National Energy Services Co., Inc. common shares for shareholders of record as of November 3, 2010. Propalms shareholders are to receive 1 (one) share of restricted National Energy Services stock for every 30 (thirty) shares they own of Propalms as of the record date; no fractional shares shall be issued.
As a part of the teleconference, Owen Dukes, CEO of Propalms, was able to update the financial community on Propalms' new corporate strategy, the sale of its subsidiary Propalms Ltd. and what the impact of the sale will have on the company and its shareholders. Robert Zysblat, President of Propalms, Inc., discussed the company's new focus on buying and selling revenue generating technology companies and the name change Propalms has filed with FINRA to better reflect the company's new corporate strategy.
Mr. Dukes and Mr. Zysblat explained the reasons behind the sale of Propalms Ltd. during yesterday's teleconference. Mr. Dukes stated, "It has always been our mission here at Propalms to increase shareholder value. Over the past few years management has become concerned about the stock price and feels it is our responsibility to improve the valuation for all of our shareholders." Robert Zysblat, President of Propalms, Inc., explained that Propalms Ltd. generated less than half a million dollars in revenues for the six month period ending July 31, 2010. In addition, Propalms Ltd. required significant new capital to expand. The sale of Propalms Ltd. enabled Propalms, Inc. to add $1 Million of National Energy Services Company, Inc. shares, an over the counter bulletin board company, to its asset base and reduce its liabilities by $1.3 Million. At the time of the sale, Propalms, Inc. improved its balance sheet by more than approximately 6 times the revenue it generated in the first six months.
Mr. Dukes also mentioned during the nationwide teleconference that through Propalms' new corporate strategy the company will be focused on buying and selling technology companies that are already revenue generating and are in the need of a strong management team, global distribution network, and capital in order to "make it to the next level." He also explained how Propalms, Inc. has signed a letter of intent to acquire Acute Systems, a Florida-based technology company, and expects to have the transaction completed within the next few weeks.
Mr. Zysblat announced that Propalms will be issuing a dividend of National Energy Services Co., Inc. stock to Propalms Inc. shareholders as well as a continuing plan to issue a dividend with every new spinoff. He also mentioned his focus under the new corporate strategy will be looking at select number of quoted technology companies that Propalms may take a financial interest in. If the company believes that the share price is undervalued and we can see potential growth, Propalms may consider to add input to the companies if the occasion requires.
Mr. Zysblat went on to explain the reasoning behind Propalms' filing for its recent name change during the teleconference. Mr. Zysblat stated, "Propalms, Inc. has adopted this new corporate strategy; it was better that the company had a name to better reflect this strategy and cause less confusion." Propalms, Inc. has registered its new domain name, made the required changes under the State of Nevada amendments and received its new CUSIP number. The Company is waiting to hear from FINRA on the exact date of the name change, but we will keep its shareholders up to date on any and all changes.
"We are extremely excited about the implementation of our new corporate strategy and are looking to grow our revenue significantly in the near future," stated Owen Dukes, CEO of Propalms, Inc.
Realty Income Corporation ( NYSE: O) September 21, 2010, Escondido, CA cnnounced that its Board of Directors has declared an increase in the Company's common stock monthly cash dividend to $0.1439375 per share from $0.143625 per share. The dividend is payable on October 15, 2010 to shareholders of record as of October 1, 2010. This is the 52nd consecutive quarterly increase and the 59th dividend increase since Realty Income went public in 1994. The new monthly dividend amount represents an annualized dividend amount of $1.72725 per share as compared to the previous annualized dividend amount of $1.7235 per share. The Company continues its long-term policy of declaring and paying dividends on a monthly, rather than on a quarterly, basis.
Tom A. Lewis, Chief Executive Officer of Realty Income commented, "We are pleased that our operations allow us to once again increase the amount of the dividend we pay to our shareholders. With the payment of the October dividend we will have made 483 consecutive monthly dividend payments."
Realty Income, The Monthly Dividend Company(R), is a New York Stock Exchange real estate company dedicated to providing shareholders with dependable monthly income. To date the Company has declared 483 consecutive common stock monthly dividends throughout its 41-year operating history and increased the dividend 59 times since Realty Income's listing on the New York Stock Exchange in 1994. The monthly income is supported by the cash flow from over 2,300 properties owned under long-term lease agreements with regional and national retail chains and other commercial enterprises. The Company is an active buyer of net-leased properties nationwide.
Sanderson Farms, Inc. (Nasdaq: SAFM) September 23, 2010, Laurel, MS, announced that its board of directors has declared a regular cash quarterly dividend of $0.17 (seventeen cents) per share payable October 19, 2010, to stockholders of record on October 5, 2010. This represents a new annual dividend rate of $0.68 (sixty-eight cents) per share. Payment of the regular quarterly dividend will remain subject to board approval each quarter.
"The Board's decision to increase our dividend rate reflects Sanderson Farms' solid operating performance in fiscal 2010, the Company's strong financial position, and our confidence in the future," commented Joe F. Sanderson, Jr., president and chief executive officer of Sanderson Farms. "Our consistent growth and solid execution of our operating strategy provide us with confidence in the future of Sanderson Farms. We are pleased to be in a position to allow the Board to take these actions and provide this opportunity to reward our shareholders."
Sanderson Farms, Inc. is engaged in the production, processing, marketing and distribution of fresh and frozen chicken and other prepared food items.
Thor Industries, Inc. (NYSE: THO) October 1, 2010, Jackson Center, OH announced that its board of directors approved an increase of its regular quarterly dividend to 10 cents per share. This represents a 43% increase over its previous regular dividend of 7 cents per share. The new regular dividend will be paid on October 29, 2010 to shareholders of record on October 18, 2010.
Thor is the world's largest manufacturer of recreation vehicles and a major builder of commercial buses and ambulances.
West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc. (NYSE: WST) October 4, 2010, Lionville, PA announced that its Board of Directors has approved an increase of one cent per share in the Company's quarterly cash dividend, to $0.17 per share, beginning in the fourth quarter of 2010. The 6.25% increase is the eighteenth consecutive annual increase in the Company's quarterly dividend. The fourth quarter dividend will be paid on November 3, 2010 to shareholders of record on October 20, 2010.
West is a global manufacturer of components and systems for injectable drug delivery, including stoppers and seals for vials, and closures and disposable components used in syringe, IV and blood collection systems. The Company also provides products with application to the personal care, food and beverage markets. Headquartered in Lionville, Pennsylvania, West supports its partners and customers from 50 locations throughout North America, South America, Europe, Mexico, Japan, Asia and Australia. For more information, visit West at www.westpharma.com.
WD-40 Company (Nasdaq: WDFC) October 1, 2010, San Diego, CA, announced that its board of directors declared an increase in the regular quarterly dividend to $.27 per share, payable October 29, 2010 to stockholders of record on October 14, 2010.
WD-40 Company, with headquarters in San Diego, is a global consumer product company offering a variety of maintenance products. The company markets three multi-purpose maintenance product brands – WD-40®, 3-IN-ONE® and BLUE WORKS™ – and eight homecare and cleaning product brands: X-14® hard surface cleaners and automatic toilet bowl cleaners, 2000 Flushes® automatic toilet bowl cleaners, Carpet Fresh® and No Vac® rug and room deodorizers, Spot Shot® aerosol and liquid carpet stain removers, 1001® carpet, household cleaners and rug and room deodorizers, and Lava® and Solvol® heavy-duty hand cleaners.
WD-40 Company markets its products in more than 160 countries worldwide and recorded sales of $292 million in fiscal year 2009.
HELP BEXLEY PUBLIC RADIO UPGRADE ITS ANTENNA. SEND YOUR MONEY PROMPTLY. BE GENEROUS.
Bexley Public Radio Foundation broadcasting as
WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM, Local Power Radio
2700 E. Main St., Suite 208
Columbus, OH 43209
Voice (614) 235 2929
Fax (614) 235 3008
Email wcrxlp@yahoo.com
Blog http://agentofcurrency.blogspot.com
Bexley Public Radio Foundation is exempt from federal taxes under IRC Section 501(c)(3). Donations are deductible from federal income taxes for individuals who itemize. Checks may identify the payee as Bexley Public Radio Foundation or WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM.
Design is copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Bexley Public Radio Foundation. Text and photo are copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Laura Franks.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
