Teacher: Given a text, write a compressed version of it in a single sentence.
Teacher: Now, understand the problem? If you are still confused, see the following example:
Except for this small vocal minority, we have just not gotten a lot of groundswell against this from members, " says APA president Philip G. Zimbardo of Stanford University.
Solution: "Except for this small vocal minority, we have not gotten a lot of groundswell against this," says APA president Zimbardo.
Reason: Both texts convey the same meaning that they have not gotten much groundswell against this except for small minority.

Now, solve this instance: The St. Louis company earned $45.2 million, or 65 cents a share, compared with $84.9 million, or $1.24 a share, a year earlier. Sales in the latest period were $1.76 billion, a 13 % increase from last year's $1.55 billion.
Student:
The St. Louis company earned $45.2 million, compared with $84.9 million a year earlier. Sales in the latest period were $1.76 billion, a 13% increase from last year.