Calendar

Please Note: the specific content posted on this website is under the control of the local ASA Houston chapter and is not the responsibility of the parent organization American Society of Appraisers

Special Chapter Events & Education

  • SAVE THE DATE: April 18, 2024 FREE RECEPTION - Chapter Outreach
  • SAVE THE DATE: May 2, 2024 Cinco de Mayo Celebration
  • Houston's 2024 Energy Valuation Conference will take place May 16, 2024. For more details: EnergyValuationConference.org

Contact Us

Please enter your name.
Please enter a valid email address.
Please type your message.
  • Nov. 3, 2023 Expert Witness Workshop & Mock Trial Recordings are available of the 2020 and 2021 workshops.
  • 2024 - ARM Courses in Houston - Dates TBA
  • October, 2024 - ASA International Conference will take place in Portland, OR.
  • 2024 Dates TBA - Online USPAP Courses sponsored by Houston chapter. Learn more on Education page.

Past Houston Chapter Meetings & Webinars

  • October 7, 2021 "Joe's IT Rules: Things to Do and Not to Do on your Computer" by Joe Carl White
  • September 2, 2021 "Meet Joey Sanchez", HOUSTON EXPONENTIAL
  • May 6, 2021 "Expert Witness Education Opportunities" Panel Discussion
  • April 1, 2021 "Outlook for Houston's Economy" presented by Robert W. Gilmer, Ph.D.
  • February 4, 2021 “Strategies for Growing your Appraisal Practice in 2021” Presented by David Mitroff, Ph. D.
  • January 7, 2021  "Metal As Money" presented by Alvin Stern, AM
  • Dec. 3, 2020 "Testimony Trainwrecks" presented by Attorney Matthew Copeland
  • Nov. 5, 2020 "New ASA Governance" Webinar Interanctive Panel with ASA CEO Johnnie White
  • October 1, 2020 "Valuing Wineries is easy. Just ask my empty glass" presented by Derek Groff, ASA, CFE, Director Moss Adams, Denver
  • September 3, 2020 "The Art & Antique Auction Market" presented by Lindsay Davis, Bonhams Representative in Texas
  • June 18, 2020 "The Art of Testifying Remotely" presented by Adam Massey

Jesse Thompson, Senior Business Economist, Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas               “Texas Regional Economic Update from the Dallas Federal Reserve”

Grotto Ristorante, 4715 Westheimer Rd., Houston, TX 77027

Networking 11:30 AM, Presentation & Lunch 12:00 PM (Central)

1 hour of CE Credit, Cost: $30 (includes lunch) or $20 online.  

Scroll down to Register Below for Lunch Meeting

Jesse Thompson serves as senior business economist at the Houston Branch of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas.

Thompson, who joined the Bank in 2010, performs research and analysis on issues affecting the Houston and Gulf Coast economy. In particular, he studies issues surrounding area hydrocarbon industries. He also collects information for the Dallas Fed’s Beige Book summary of current economic conditions. He is author of the monthly Energy Indicator and Houston Economic Indicators. He also contributes to the publication Southwest Economy.

Thompson earned an MA in economics, with emphasis on empirical microeconomics, and BA in philosophy and economics from the University of Houston.

April 4, 2024 Lunch & Program Registration

Register to Attend in Person
Hidden

Section Break

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

March 7 Presentation “Overview of Liquid Terminal Valuations” by Jim Harden, ASA, CPG, CMA

Jim retired as a Valuation Partner from Moss Adams last year and continues serving clients under his firm, EnerVal, LLC. Prior to Moss Adams, he served as the Global Oil and Gas Valuation Leader at a Big-4 accounting firm, and earlier in his career, he worked at Texaco Inc., and was co-owner of an oil and gas exploration and production company. In his 40-year career, Jim has led thousands of energy valuation engagements. His work has supported SEC and IFRS financial reporting, mergers and acquisitions, federal tax, state and local tax, and international tax, insurance, bankruptcy, solvency, and litigation matters.

Jim has also served clients as expert witness before courts and tribunals in Delaware, Texas, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Kansas, West Virginia, Colorado and Utah, as well as IRS hearings. His valuation and testimony have supported oil and gas operators, royalty owners, oil and gas pipelines and gathering systems, gas processing facilities, natural gas storage facilities, ethanol production, oil and gas equipment, offshore drilling rigs and contracts, oil refiners, and crude and product terminals and gas storage facilities.

Jim has dual BS degrees from Ft. Hays State University and an MBA from LeTourneau University. He is an Accredited Senior Appraiser (ASA) with the American Society of Appraisers (Certified in Oil & Gas Valuation), a Certified Professional Geologist (CPG), a Certified Mineral Appraiser (IIMA) and is a member of the Society of Petroleum Engineers. He’s also a member of the Elks Lodge of New Braunfels, Texas.

He has been published by the Society of Petroleum Engineers, the Oil & Gas Financial Journal and other professional publications and has been named by the Houston Business Journal and the American Cities Business Journals as a “Who’s Who in Energy” and has presented papers at more than fifty professional conferences and events, sponsored by organizations such as the American Society of Appraisers, the Society of Petroleum Engineers, the International Association of Drilling Contractors, and the American Institute of Professional Geologists.

Ray Simpson, CEO and President, Simpson Galleries

“The Auction Market Today, a Changing Time”

Ray Simpson discussed the auction market today, current market trends, and how the auction industry can help downsize or focus a collection. Leaving items to heirs without realistic and solid plans for ownership, often causes unintended hardships for family members. Learn how to properly plan for ownership transfers, as well as personal liquidations.

Ray attended Lyon College, receiving his B.A. in English Literature, Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. Simpson Galleries, Houston, is Texas' Oldest Fine Arts and Antique Auction Firm.

Simpson Galleries has decades of experience working with families, executors and fiduciaries tasked with the appraisal and disposition of the tangible assets of an estate collection. We are always available to confidentially discuss your needs for the evaluation and potential liquidation of the property in the estate.

Whether it is a simple walkthrough for general value assessment or a detailed IRS compliant estate tax appraisal, Simpson Galleries has the expertise to provide direction and solutions.

Nov. 2, 2023 presentation featured Lark E. Mason, Jr.

International Art Auction Trends

Presentation on Oct. 12, 2023

Behind the Bench: Dialogue with Hon. Michael Landrum

Guidance for Expert Witness Testimony in Trials 

American Society of Appraisers

 

For six years, Michael Landrum presided as State District Court Judge in civil trial matters of all types.  He has served as an arbitrator in hundreds of cases administered by the American Arbitration Association and FINRA.

Michael Landrum is a native Houstonian and received his B.A. from The University of St. Thomas and law degree from the University of Texas. For 45 years he has been a licensed attorney, and holds specialist certifications in the fields of Civil Trial Law and Civil Appellate Law from the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.

Judge Landrum has been a mentor to dozens of law students and young lawyers and taught about American courts at Houston Baptist University. He served as judicial liaison to the Houston Young Lawyers Association and lectured in continuing legal education programs, judged student mock trial and moot court competitions, and is active in Houston Bar Association activities.

Lunch Meeting at Grotto Ristorante, 4715 Westheimer Rd., Houston, TX 77027

Networking 11:30 AM, Presentation & Lunch 12:00 PM (Central)

CE Credit: 1 hour. Cost: $30 (includes lunch) or $20 online. Use form below to register for lunch meeting.  

First meeting of the 2023-2024 season September 7, 2023

"USPAP Sneak Preview"

JoshWood flyer.docx

Cinco de Mayo celebrated by Houston Chapter at Ninfa's

Monthly Chapter Lunch Presentation given by Jeff Hays on May 4, 2023.


Appraising High Value Homes by Jeff Hays, ASA

Jeffrey Hays, ASA will discuss appraising high value homes and the principles, market characteristics, and methods learned over many years as a real property appraiser providing value opinions in the Houston neighborhoods of River Oaks, Memorial, West University, Tanglewood, and the Heights. Longtime chapter member and Past President Wayland Hutcheson, ASA, will assist in a Q & A, as the audience participates while sipping margaritas and enjoying delicious offerings by Ninfa’s as we continue the long Houston Chapter tradition of Cinco de Mayo.

A member of the Houston Association of Realtors, Jeff Hays is a licensed Texas Real Estate Broker, a State Certified Residential Real Estate Appraiser and an Accredited Senior Appraiser with ASA. Jeff has much experience in close-in neighborhoods and a working knowledge of many suburban communities. His firm, J & J Inc, specializes in appraising high value homes in and around Houston. He keeps up to date on growth and development trends shaping real estate markets and life across the greater Houston area and beyond. Urban economics including sustainable development and architecture are an ongoing interest. He is currently a member of the Houston ASA Chapter Board of Directors and the HAR MLS Advisory Group.

Melanie Modica, ASA, ARM,ARM shared tips on Appraisal Services and new Appraisal Management course on April 6, 2023

 


Melanie Modica, ASA, ARM, is the owner of Modica Fine Art LLC, in Houston. She offers professional services for various art collection needs such as insurance, estate planning, equitable distribution, acquisition, divestment, marital dissolution, managing assets, expert witness and litigation support, and appraisal review. 

Melanie is an instructor, and contributor, editor and developer for the ASA ARM Principles of Valuation (POV) courses 201, 203 and 204. She has written the ASA Appraisal Management course and teaches other appraisers how to manage multifaceted assignments.

In addition to the classroom ARM POV courses, Melanie has also taught courses in person, and in an online format series, in multiple cities across the U.S and in Mexico.

Melanie holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree that includes post-baccalaureate studies in Management Administration & Supervision, and Art History. Her degree and studies led to an art education career in the Texas public school system. This experience enhances her ability to address and inform attorneys, jurors and clients with clear, impartial, professional services.

“Art As Jewelry”

Presented by Cristina Mattern 

March 3, 2023 - Webinar Available


Cristina Mattern joined Tenenbaum Jewelers in Houston, Texas, as the Director of Acquisitions in 2006.  She graduated from the University of Texas in 1998 and later from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) with a Graduate Gemology degree.

Cristina has devoted herself professionally for the last 25 years to the history and magic of antique and estate jewelry. She grew up as the daughter of Cuban refugees and is always fascinated by the portability and artistry of gems and jewelry.

“Appraisers Encountering Guns”

Presented by Bruce Treadway, ASA, ISA-CAPP, on Feb. 2, 2023. Webinar Available

Bruce Treadway, ASA, ISA-CAPP and his team have performed thousands of appraisals of personal property for families, attorneys, accountants, andinsurance professionals throughout Chicagoland. One area of Mr. Treadway’s professional focus is appraising militaria, weaponry, artillery, and ammunition; he is a Certified Firearms Appraiser through the American Gunsmithing Institute.  In addition, he and his team have assisted in determining the values of art, antiques, guns, coins, furnishings, and other contents of many homes and estates.

As a graduate of Carnegie Mellon University, Mr. Treadway has served in numerous operational and managerial roles. Mr. Treadway served in corporate management for Fortune 100 manufacturers of medicaldevices, precision electronics, and other products.

A military veteran of the US Navy, participating in Operation Desert Storm and Operation Sharp Edge, Bruce became a Lifetime Member of the VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars) and AMVETS. He actively assists military veterans transitioning to civilian life.

Currently, he volunteers as a board member for Senior Services Associates in northern Illinois. Additionally, Mr.Treadway is a member of Leadership Northbrook and Leadership Greater McHenry County (LGMC). He has served on the board of Faith in Action (Senior Services) and the County Mental Health Board. He has served as a volunteer County Commissioner on the Senior Services Grant Commission.

Recent Houston Chapter Presentation Recording Available

1 hour of CE Credit, Available $20 online 

“Post-Pandemic Marketing for Appraisers”

Presented by Stephen Gibbons

 

Stephen Gibbons is the owner and publisher of three community magazines here in the Houston area. He was born and raised in Marietta, GA, and went on to attend Auburn University, where hard work and determination led him to walk on the Auburn football team.

Stephen decided to join The N2 Company four and half years ago after relocating from Georgia to Texas with his wife and two kids to be closer to family and started his first magazine, Cane Island, in Katy in the community of Cane Island. A year later, he decided to partner with his wife in business, and they now have a second magazine in Katy called BeLocal that is directed towards new movers in the community and their third magazine, STROLL, in River Oaks proper. Stephen is driven to help local businesses win by connecting them with their ideal clients through high-quality niche publications, local community knowledge, and custom digital solutions.

Watch March 3, 2022 Town Hall Recording

"Town Hall" with Houston Chapter President Cameron Tipton, ASA, ARM

Open Forum: How the Houston Chapter can Better Serve its Members - at Grotto Ristorante

American Society of Appraisers

WEBINARS OF PAST PRESENSTATIONS ARE AVAILABLE AS WEBINARS

“Key Factors to The Value of a Beverage Alcohol Business”

Presented by Derek Groff, ASA, CFE

 

Derek Groff, ASA, CFE has been providing financial advisory services to companies and business owners since 2001. He advises on complex valuation issues for tax compliance, financial reporting, mergers and acquisitions, strategic planning, and litigation support.

He currently leads Moss Adams’ valuation practice in the Rockies region and works with private/public companies, private equity/VC funds, private clients, and families on issues related to raising capital, mergers and acquisitions, stock issuance, complex financial instruments (derivatives), tax/succession planning, and litigation/shareholder disputes.

In a prior lifetime, Derek was an investment banker, competitive tennis player, and owner of a Napa wine brand. He also has a strong penchant for bourbon and the smooth sounds of yacht rock.

September 1, 2022 Houston Chapter Presentation

“Texas Regional Economic Update from the Dallas Federal Reserve”

Presentation by Jesse Thompson, Business Economist, Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas

 

The ASA Houston Chapter is proud to welcome back Jesse Thompson!

Jesse is a senior business economist at the Houston Branch of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas. Thompson, who joined the Bank in 2010, performs research and analysis on issues affecting the Houston and Gulf Coast economy. In particular, he studies issues surrounding area hydrocarbon industries. He also collects information for the Dallas Fed’s Beige Book summary of current economic conditions. He is the author of the monthly Energy Indicators, the Houston Economic Indicators, and contributes to the quarterly publication Southwest Economy.

Thompson earned an MA in economics, emphasizing empirical microeconomics, and a BA in philosophy and economics from the University of Houston.

April 7, 2022 Houston Chapter Presentation

Webinar available to order - 1 hour of CE Credit, Cost: $20 

"Best practices for leading and managing a multi-discipline valuation engagement”Presentation by Robert Tinnell, CFA

 

Robert Tinnell, CFA

Robert advises public and private clients on a myriad of financial and technical matters across multiple industries, with a focus on the energy, materials, and industrials sectors.The specific industries and segments he serves include exploration and production, midstream, refining, retail and marketing, oilfield services, chemicals and specialty products, and engineering and construction. His assignments include business valuation studies, the valuation of debt and equity instruments, discount and premium studies, as well as board advisory and financial modeling.

Robert is also a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and has been a guest speaker at numerous universities and conferences on topics related to business valuation and the oil and gas industry.

Robert holds a Master of Business Administration degree from Rice University in Houston, TX and a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from the University of Texas at Austin.

A Conversation with David Crick, ASA

International President ASA Board of Govenors

This Event was held In Feb. 3, 2022, Person and Online

David Crick presented remotely from Australia. 

DAVID CRICK, ASA is the Managing Director of the DavAir Group, an Australian company providing international aviation inspection, appraisal and advisory services. He has an unparalleled passion for the aviation sector performing appraisals of both fixed wing & rotary aviation assets in Australia, the Asia Pacific Rim, the USA and various countries in Europe & the Middle East.

David has considerable knowledge of corporate valuation requirements for financial reporting, mortgage security assessments, insurance & liquidation disposals. He performs appraisals for finance and leasing, aviation sales, mergers and acquisitions, insurance disputes, and expert witness for the legal fraternity.  David has presented at international forums, including events in the UK, USA, Russia, Europe, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand.

1572317351915

Attorney Nelle Jennings, Partner at Ytterberg Deery Knull LLP

"Wealth Management, Trust, and Estate Appraisal Tips for Appraisers "

CHAPTER LUNCH PRESENTATION May 5 2022

Joe Carl White, Independant IT Consultant

Joe's IT Rules: Things To Do – And Not Do – On Your Computer

JOE CARL WHITE is an independent IT consultant. For over a quarter of a century he has helped individuals and small businesses with hardware and software troubleshooting, wired and wireless networking, domain name registration and hosting questions, internet access, and purchasing advice: he is always keen to find a client a deal. A native of Beaumont, he graduated form Rice University with majors in economics, managerial studies, and religious studies, and has done graduate work at the University of Chicago and the University of Texas at Austin.

EXPERT WITNESS EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES

Become an Expert Witness, Advance your Skills, and Enhance your Practice

A Panel of Experts led an Interactive Discussion May 6, 2021 Webinar

 CE Credit 1 hour

The Outlook for Houston's Economy as We Approach the End Game for COVID 19 Robert W. (Bill) Gilmer, Ph.D.

Recording Available - CE Credit 1 hour  - Cost: $20

Bill Gilmer is Director of the Institute for Regional Forecasting (IRF) at the University of Houston’s Bauer College of Business. The Institute monitors the Houston and Gulf Coast business cycle, analyzing how oil markets, the national economy, and global expansion influence the regional economy. Gilmer is also appointed as an inaugural University of Houston Energy Fellow.

Gilmer served the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas for 23 years, retiring as a Senior Economist and Vice President. He joined the Houston Branch of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas as a senior economist in 1989, focusing on energy markets and regional growth. He co-managed the 11th District’s regional economic analysis from 2004-2012, and was editor of two of the bank’s regional publications. Gilmer’s work on the Texas economy has been recognized in publications such as the Wall Street Journal, The Economist, and Forbes.

Gilmer also served the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas as the officer in charge of the El Paso Branch from 2003-2012, overseeing Federal Reserve operations in West Texas and New Mexico. Prior to joining the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas in 1989, he held the principal economic forecasting position at the Tennessee Valley Authority. He also worked as a research economist at the Institute for Energy Analysis in Oak Ridge, Tennessee and at the Institute for Defense Analysis in Arlington, Virginia.

“Strategies for Growing Your Appraisal Practice in 2021” by David Mitroff, Ph.D.

Learn fast ways to grow your brand
Leverage technology for efficiency
Reach new market segments
Systematic approach to grow and leverage your network

Recording Available - CE Credit 1 hour  - Cost: $20

David Mitroff, Ph.D. is a Business Growth Strategist who shares his secrets for creating successful brands that stand out and thrive. David inspires business professionals through his keynote talks on a wide range of topics such as how to build a brand with data-driven marketing, digital leadership: growing your online presence, and on the psychology behind building professional connections. David Mitroff, Ph.D. is the Founder and Chief Consultant of Piedmont Avenue Consulting, Inc. He creates brand awareness, strengthens customer loyalty, and streamlines business processes. He has been a featured media expert for NBC, ABC, San Francisco Business Times, Hospitality Technology, California Lawyer, and more. Dr. Mitroff is also a College Instructor who teaches entrepreneurship and marketing courses at the University of California, Berkeley and is a Google Mentor for the Google For Startups program

“Metal as Money” by Alvin L. Stern, AM

What is the state of the market in the COVID era?
What trends are expected in the New Year? Pose
 your questions to one of the country’s leading coin appraisers.

Recording Available - CE Credit 1 hour  - Cost: $20

Alvin L. Stern, AM, a numismatist  since 1966, has been affiliated with the American Society of Appraisers for more than 35 years. He has a long history conducting research and producing educational programs and videos. A member of the American Numismatic Association (ANA) he has five video presentations in their education library. Al has published numerous articles in his field and received the Bradford Literary Award-CSNS in 2007.  He hosts the “Texas Numismatic Study Group” in Houston every month and routinely works as an expert witness, prepares appraisals for various departments of the U.S, government, law offices, churches, and family estates.

“Testimony Train Wrecks”

Pro-actively identify disasters, stay focused, and avoid falling into hazardous testimony traps!

Recording Available - CE Credit 1 hour  - Cost: $20

Matthew A. Copeland, JD

Matthew A. Copeland, is a partner with Adams And Reese LLP, Houston.  His work focuses on commercial disputes and tort litigation. He also represents owners, property managers and community associations in real estate matters. Matt's experience includes prosecuting and defending claims for breach of contract, fraud and violations of the Deceptive Trade Practices Act, and he has extensive experience defending businesses against personal injury and wrongful death claims.  Mr. Copeland received the distinction of inclusion in the 2020 edition of Texas Super Lawyers “Rising Stars” and was among the Adams and Reese attorneys honored as “One to Watch” in the 2021 edition of The Best Lawyers in America (by BL Rankings, LLC).  He graduated cum laude with J.D. in 2012 from the University of Houston.

“Realigning the Society and How it Affects All Members”

Interactive Panel Discussion on the New ASA Governance Policy
Live webinar took place November 5, 2020. Now available on demand.  CE Credit 1 hours  - Cost: Free   

Johnnie White, CEO of American Society of Appraisers leads an interactive panel discussion joined by ASA Region 3 Governor Scott Miller, ASA, and Chapter & Governance Specialist Justin Kane. The session is interactive with Q & A. This program is of interest to all ASA members across disciplines.

Presentation by Derek Groff, ASA, CFE. This live webinar will take place on October 1, 2020, 12:00 PM

Recording Available - CE Credit 1.5 hour  - Cost $20.   

Derek Groff, Director, Moss Adams, has been providing financial advisory services to companies and business owners since 2001. He advises on complex valuation issues for tax compliance, financial reporting, mergers and acquisitions, strategic planning, and litigation support. He currently leads Moss Adams’ valuation practice in Denver and works with private/public companies, private equity/VC funds, high net worth individuals, and families on issues related to raising capital, mergers and acquisitions, stock issuance, complex financial instruments (derivatives), tax/succession planning, and litigation/shareholder disputes. Derek has advised or consulted on dozens of equity and M&A transactions totaling over $15 billion in transaction value. In a prior lifetime, Derek was an investment banker, winery owner, and competitive tennis player. He also has a strong penchant for bourbon and the smooth sounds of yacht rock.

“The Art & Antique Auction Market” - State of the Market and Impacts from COVID-19

Presentation by Lindsay Davis. This webinar took place on September 3, 2020, 12:00 - 1:00 PM

 

Recording Available - CE Credit 1.5 hour  - Cost $20.   

Lindsay Davis, Bonham's Texas Representative, received her BA in Art History at the University of Texas at Austin and MA in Arts Administration at Columbia University in New York City. She also holds a Certificate in Appraisal Studies in Fine and Decorative Art from New York University. Prior to joining Bonhams, Lindsay worked with clients, institutions and fiduciaries to source art, assess collections and appraise estates. Lindsay has managed the day-to-day operations of both the AT&T Corporate Art Collection and the MD Anderson Art Collection. In Houston, she is actively involved with the Bayou Bend Docent Organization and the Make-a-Wish Foundation. She sits on the boards of the Bayou Bend Docent Organization, the Advisory Council of the College of Fine Art at the University of Texas, and grant and public art panels for Houston Arts Alliance.

Recording Available - CE Credit 1.8 hours  - Cost $20.   

This live webinar was recorded June 18, 2020

Preparations, Precautions and Performance for Remote Deposition and Testimony

Mr. Massey shares innovative guidance when preparing for an online appearance, having conducted many remote depositions with expert witnesses during the past several months. He shares experiences, tips and warnings for a transition to online work, as remote testimony may remain long after COVID19 restrictions have passed. Seasoned and inexperienced experts alike will benefit from this session.

Adam Massey, Partner, Adams And Reese LLP,  is a first-chair trial attorney with experience representing plaintiffs and defendants in state court, federal court, and arbitration proceedings throughout Texas. His work focuses on complex commercial and tort litigation, including matters involving contract and breach of warranty disputes, all aspects of the upstream oil and gas industry, construction defects, personal injury claims, and products liability claims. Mr. Massey received the distinction of being included in the 2020 edition Texas Super Lawyers Rising Stars” and was recently named Vice Chair of the Houston Bar Association's Litigation Section. The section promotes the objectives and standards of professionalism of the Houston Bar Association within the field of litigation, serving litigation practitioners of the 11,000-plus member Houston Bar Association. He graduated magna cum laude with J.D. in 2008 from South Texas College of Law.

Past Chapter Newsletters

News, Events, Scholarships, Continuing Education, etc.