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Northern Ireland Music Production Teachers and Northern Ireland Music Production Tuition
With First Tutors: Music you can find a music production teacher in the Northern Ireland region and across the UK. Music Production tuition is an excellent way to bolster confidence in addition to learning a fun new hobby! Use our site to search for music production tutors near you in Northern Ireland and select which best suits your requirements so you can begin music production lessons quickly!
Meet some of our Northern Ireland Music Production Teachers
Discover in one search a home Northern Ireland Music Production tutor with us. Whether you are tackling Music Production grade exams, forming a band or learning for pleasure, we have a diverse range of Music Production tutors to help you. Our search will order Music Production teachers (from Northern Ireland) in your area by to their fees and proximity to you. Before finalising an arrangement with a Northern Ireland Music Production tutor, you can discuss specific issues securely through your member's area, such as whether the Music Production teacher holds Music Production lessons from their home or will travel to you. If you are preparing for Music Production exams, we can assist with grade preparation all across Northern Ireland and additionally for a range of subjects including piano, violin and guitar lessons.
If you are a music production tutor wishing to offer your Music Production lessons in Northern Ireland or anywhere else across Northern Ireland, please register with First Tutors: Music or find out more about us here.
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This hotel list is NOT a comprehensive list of all hotels that may be received through Priceline. It is only a summary of the hotels that have been received in winning bids posted on this board.* You may receive a hotel through Priceline that is not on this list; we see new hotels appear all the time.
If you don't see a particular quality level or zone on this list, that only means that someone has not posted a winning bid for that quality level and/or zone. It does NOT mean that Priceline does not offer hotels within that quality level or zone. If Priceline offers a zone or quality level on their website, it is safest to assume that they do in fact offer hotels in that zone.
All information on this list is subject to change because Priceline may:
- add, combine, or remove zones without notice;
- change the maximum quality level offered in any zone without notice;
- change the rating of a particular hotel.
Please refer to the Hotel FAQ on this board for more important info to know before you place a bid.
* Some hotels may be marked "Possible" or "Not reported yet". We've added these hotels to the list even though they have not been received because they are good possibilities and provide additional rate information for an area.
4 Star
Possible: Best Western Plus Grand Howard
5 Star
Banyan Tree Bangkok [reviews]
Marriott Executive Apartments Sathorn Vista
Shangri-La Hotel [reviews]
3 Star
Ibis Bangkok Sathorn
Siam Square
5 Star
Intercontinental [reviews]
Le Royal Meridien Plaza Athenee
Marriott Mayfair Executive Apartments [reviews]
Pullman Bangkok King Power
Possible: Conrad Bangkok
Possible: Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaprasong
4.5 Star
Swissotel Nai Lert Park Bangkok (formerly Bangkok Hilton)
4 Star
Amari Watergate Hotel & Spa
Sukosol Bangkok (formerly Siam City Hotel)
Possible: Novotel Bangkok On Siam Square
Possible: Courtyard Bangkok
Possible: Holiday Inn Bangkok
3.5 Star
Ramada D Ma Bangkok
5 Star
Millennium Hilton Bangkok
4 Star
Holiday Inn Bangkok Silom [reviews]
Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers [reviews]
Siam Heritage Boutique Suite
5 Star
Westin Grande Sukhumvit [reviews]
JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok [reviews]
Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit (current Priceline rating unknown) [reviews]
3.5 Star
Bangkok Hotel Lotus Sukhumvit (formerly Novotel) [reviews]
3 Star
Check Inn Regency Park (formerly Regency Park Hotel)
Thonburi (bidding is currently not offered in this zone)
5 Star
Anantara Bangkok Riverside Resort & Spa (formerly Bangkok Marriott Resort & Spa) [reviews]
(Some hotels in Phuket are incorrectly located in the maps on Priceline's US site. However, it appears that hotels received through NYOP are within the zone boundaries, even if the maps on Priceline's US site suggest otherwise.)
Bang Thao Beach (Laguna Area)
5 Star
Angsana Laguna Phuket (formerly Sheraton Grande; current Priceline rating unknown)
Possible: Banyan Tree Phuket
4 Star
Possible: Courtyard at Surin Beach
2 Star (2* bidding is currently not offered in this zone)
Best Western Allamanda Laguna Phuket
Karon - Kata Beach
5 Star
Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort
Patong Beach
4 Star
Novotel Phuket Resort
Possible: Courtyard Phuket at Patong Beach
Possible: Mercure Patong Phuket
3 Star
Holiday Inn Resort
5 Star
J.W. Marriott Resort and Spa [reviews]
4* Siam Heritage Boutique Suite
Guest Rating: 8
Amenities: Business Center, Restaurant, Free Internet, Pool, Business Center
Mandatory Fee: This hotel charges an additional 10% per room per night.

subset: commoncrawl


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Conclusion Excerpt From:
Meditation Interventions to Rewire the Brain –
Integrating Neuroscience Strategies for ADHD, Anxiety, Depression & PTSD
by Jeff Tarrant PhD, BCN
In reference to Celtic Mandalynths:
In all my years of measuring brainwaves, I have never seen anything change brain patterns that quickly and dramatically. Of course, the obvious question is, "will this last?" The answer is "we don't know." It is possible that with enough practice this new, more relaxed pattern in the brain would become more stable. However, we are generally not looking at this intervention as a complete treatment strategy, but rather as a tool to disrupt an overactivated brain and allow the opportunity for something different to happen. This tool essentially creates space. It can be used when someone is actively engaged in an anxiety/panic attack, is feeling agitated or hypersensitive or simply as a device to maintain a calm presence. We have placed several of these (Mandalynths) in our waiting area for clients to work with while waiting for their next appointment with positive results.
Meditation Interventions to Rewire the Brain: Integrating Neuroscience Strategies for ADHD, Anxiety, Depression & PTSD


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What to Consider In Evaluating Parking Systems
When researching parking solutions, where do you start? If you've reviewed our Definitive Guide to Parking Solutions and you've narrowed your goals to parking revenue generation and access control, read on. At Parking BOXX, we've been fielding questions from parking newbies for decades. We hear what's top of mind from businesses across North America every day. Whether you need a parking solution for your hotel, hospital, condo or shopping mall, knowing where to start can be tricky. To help, we've compiled this list of key questions to consider in evaluating parking solutions.
1. What is your goal?
Most customers come to us with at least one of three goals in mind: to generate revenue, replace or enhance an existing parking solution.
Generating Parking Revenue: Whether you've acquired a parking facility, or you're looking to convert your existing parking to a paid model, revenue may be your goal. Adding a best-in-class parking solution is the first step in making your parking profitable.
Replacing your Parking Solution: Do you have outdated equipment that doesn't keep up with your modern, streamlined brand image? Replacing your parking solution can make a big difference in customer satisfaction and operational effectiveness. Consider what you want to keep or change when it comes to layout, functionality and parking equipment.
Enhancing Your Parking Solution: Many of our customers have partial solutions in
2. What are your timelines?
At Parking BOXX, we understand that some clients need a parking solution quickly, while others are budgeting a year or more into the future.
If you're building a new parking structure or adding infrastructure, you have some lead time. Many clients like to lock in their pricing by ordering from us in advance, months or a year before they need the equipment.
Parking BOXX full-featured systems are typically ready in 6 to 10 weeks. In projects with shorter timelines, we can have your custom parking solution ready in just a few weeks.
Our flat rate and access control systems can be installed in as quickly as a
3. What is your budget?
Parking solutions can range in price from four figures to six figures. Some of the key factors that determine cost include:
- Whether you run gated or open-access parking
- If gated, how many exit and entry lanes
- Whether you require parking solutions to charge a flat rate or an hourly rate
At Parking BOXX, we can help you estimate costs and come up with a realistic budget for your parking solution.
4. Who are your parking customers?
Different parking solutions make sense for different users, be they employees, tenants, customers or the public. Employees and tenants typically access parking using credentials, such as RFID cards or tags, and your parking equipment should accommodate access control. For customers and the public (aka transient parkers), you'll want a solution to charge a parking fee.
5. How do you charge for paid parking?
Parking solutions allow you to charge parkers by the hour, day or month or by a flat rate. Providing discounted or free 'validated' parking to some users is another consideration, and there are solutions to meet your needs.
Think, too, about how you'll accept parking payments. Do you need parking equipment for automated payments with credit card,
6. How much automation do you need?
Parking solutions can range from highly manual to completely automated. If you use cashiers or attendants, they can issue tickets, validate access cards, operate gates and manage payments. But each of these functions can be replaced with parking equipment technology.
Adding parking management software, like EASE, can take your automated parking solution to the next level. With software, you can manage everything remotely and keep tabs on performance with sophisticated reporting.
7. What extras will you add?
Your parking solution can include accessories like intercoms, video monitoring, parking availability sensors and signs. You can also strategically add signage, navigational
Want to create a great first impression? Consider customized artwork for your parking equipment. Add your logo,
Next Step: Get a Free Consultation
There are many decisions along the path to sourcing your perfect parking solution. At Parking BOXX, we make it as easy as possible. Contact us today to schedule a pressure-free, obligation-free consultation with one of our parking solution experts. We're also happy to walk the site and review these options in person. Let us know what works best for you!


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Walking to higher ground at a quick pace could be the key to survival for thousands of Americans if a large tsunami were to hit the Pacific Northwest, a new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences finds.
The study focused on the high-risk communities within a 700-mile Northern California-to-Washington stretch of coastline that would be affected by a Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquake. Researchers found that nearly 5,600 additional residents—or another 6% of the population—would make it to safety in time if they walked to higher ground at a speed of 3.4mph rather than 2.5mph.
At 2.5mph, 21,562 residents would be at risk, PhysOrg reports; the researchers put the population of the communities that could be affected by a CSZ quake at 94,872.
Researchers noted that the first tsunami wave from a CSZ quake would likely hit California and Oregon within 15 minutes. "Just by getting people to move faster, you can save thousands of lives," lead author Nathan Wood tells the Seattle Times. But others are pretty much doomed, per the Times, which reports that the study shows many of those living in Ocean Shores, Wash., and Seaside, Ore., wouldn't be able to evacuate in time even at the faster speed. In these cases, the research team suggests building strong-walled vertical evacuation centers and launching emergency preparedness campaigns. (Some towns are already heeding this advice.) The Pacific Northwest Seismic Network notes that the CSZ has produced 9.0-magnitude quakes in the past, and tends to release a quake at intervals of 400 to 600 years; its last major one was in 1700. (Evidence of a "monster" tsunami was recently found in Hawaii.)
This article originally appeared on Newser: Want to Survive a Tsunami? Walk FasterMore From Newser
- Guy Volunteers for World's First Head Transplant
- SpaceX Narrowly Misses Historic Rocket Landing
- Astronaut Can See Daughter's Love— From Space


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A Scam Email with the Subject "Waiting For Your Urgent Response." was received in one of Scamdex's honeypot email accounts on Sat, 23 May 2009 02:10:21 -0700 and has been classified as a Advance Fee Fraud/419 Scam. The sender was "Barrister Haruna Mohammed"<firstname.lastname@example.com>, although it may have been spoofed.
Barrister Haruna Mohammed Esq. EQUITY CHAMBERS Managing Partner & Solicitor 8th Floor, 153-155 Regent Street London W1B 4JE. Tel/fax: +44-203-3707993 I am Barrister Haruna Mohammed, Briefly I am writing to seek for your assistance to help accomodate the sum of ($12,000 000) in your private or company's bank account. My Arab late client Engr Abdul Fawaz Hermann made a short time deposit sum of Twelve million u.s dollars ($12,000 000) with a Bank here in London, which he had wanted to transfer to his bank account at HSBC Hong-kong before he was killed by suspected terrorist gunmen. Engr. Abdul Fawaz Hermann until his death was a member of the Helicopter Society, Paris Club and the Institute of Aeronautic Engineers. He had a very good heart and was a philanthropist. His great generousity earned him numerous awards during his life time from the United Nation Organization (UNO) and United Nation International Children Education Funding (UNICEF). This sum of ($12,000 000) Twelve million u.s dollars has been floating un-claimed since 2 years in the bank here in London Metropolis. And all my extensive efforts to get relatives of my late client yielded no good result. Engr. Abdul Fawaz Hermann did not declare any next of kin or relation in his official documents of this fund deposit who will inherit this money. Therefore I seek your assistance to have you stand as his business associate so that the Bank will release and transfer this money to you as Engr. Abdul Fawaz Hermann business partners in Asia. The document for proof of this deposit will be forwarded to you upon your response. And we shall share this money 45% for you, 45% for me. while the remaining 10% will be given to charity organizations in your country. I am waiting for your urgent response for us to commence action. Sincerely yours, Barrister Haruna Mohammed Tel/fax: +44-203-3707993


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Try out your sea legs for a day on Europe's biggest catamaran!
Sail up the coast of the Calanques National Park, anchor, have lunch and swim in heavenly coves … An exceptional journey to the heart of our outstanding natural heritage. Discover the Creeks of Marseille aboard our giant of the seas. Flippers, masks and snorkels all available.
On the menu: Spanish Plancha – Various side dishes – Dessert.
Free for children under 5
Disponibility / Purchase
Price69€ (low season) - 79€ (high season) - Meal and beverage included Price for under 12s25€Boarding time11:00amDuration5hReturn to port 4:00pm.


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Next Samhain celebration - 2018
Samhain 2017 - Zurich & Hill of Tara - Chain Reaction
Samhain energies are slow to arrive this year, but we feel they will be intense 'on the day'. The intention and vision for our celebration this year is hosted by Marta, Daniela and Dana in Switzerland. Marta has provided information and an outline running order which you can find here - http://taracelebrations.org/samhain-2017-text-and-info/ Joining in the Chain Reaction - if unable to join an event 'in person', over these three days you may feel like lighting a candle wherever you are and taking a moment to share in the energies.
Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 October - Switzerland - ceremony and celebration co-created by Marta and Dana with Daniela.
Photos from Switzerland - thanks to Marta
Sunday 29 October - Holy Well, Hill of Tara
Confirming that the Hill of Tara is a beacon, the hub and fulcrum for Tara Celebrations, we shall join in this Chain Reaction of Samhain energies, with the intention of carrying that foundation into the next cycle by coming back to base, starting the year by lighting a central lantern, taking our own lights and spreading out into the community through time and space.
A beautiful ceremony... thank you so much to Marta, Dana and Daniela for inspiring that. For those in Ireland it worked really well, using words and outline provided and just adding our own personal stories and breaking into song a couple of times...
On arrival we found the well flooded in the lower section so we could not use that area.
Sixteen gathered on the path by the bench, familiar faces and welcome newbies and visitors.
Thanks to Susan for the photos.
Although not beside the well entrance we did not forget it, and placed lights on the top step.
When looking at the photos afterwards we saw a red mist on some of them - in hindsight we did of course call in the local Gods and Goddesses and Medb Lethderg (`red-side`) is land goddess of sovereignty at Tara...
and a line of lights which we cannot account for
Our centre was simple, four coloured electric tea lights placed in the north, east, south and west, with a central cauldron.
We wrote what we wanted to leave behind in the old year onto a piece of paper, and then while summoning up all emotions of 'I really want to get rid of this' tossed it into the cauldron.
Before lighting the papers we silently recalled what we had written, said aloud 'I really want to get rid of this', with the group witnessing this and responding 'We support you'.
Then we lit all the papers and they quickly burnt, the smoke rising up and over the surrounding circle of people.
The half moon hung high above us bright and white / silver, we could see the 7 lights of the Plough.
People were letting off fireworks on the hill so every so often there would be a crash and a whoosh and bright stars falling through the sky.
We talked of the Pleiades and navigating by the stars.
One of the people brought a dog, little white terrier, who every so often barked at something we could not see!
We honoured our ancestors, remembering stories of their lives, some spoke openly whilst others held their ancestral memories and space in silence.
Finally it was time to bring closure to the last cycle.
We extinguished the flame in the lantern, which has been lit for so many celebrations in recent years, and stood in the dark. It was pure magic when we turned off all the lights and candles and stood, lit only by the moon. How quickly our eyes adjusted to that.
The dark structure of the lantern shone silver under the moon, and especially brightly as the camera flashed for a photo. Those flashes added to the ambience, dare we say eeriness, of the moment.
We confirmed our intention to meet at Winter Solstice, in person or 'in spirit', thanked and blessed the overlighting energies and said 'sin sin'.
Time for cake, biscuits and sweet juicy plums.
In Galway Martin carved out his pumpkin... wondering was that before or after the wine?
30 October 2016 - Gormanston - Good Spirits
Many thanks to Pat and Susan for the photos.
Honouring the ancestors and remembering those who have passed.
|Entrance doorway through which many pass, then gasp in wonder
|A matriarchal tree oversees the hidden inner space
After the doorway the option of two paths
|A natural cathedral
There was a great sense of calm
Central light, apples, conkers and the symbolic Goddess of Tara made by Marta.
Hawthorn berries hung like jewels on the bushes
|Gormanston Castle
|Exchanging greeting waves
A cuppa afterwards - essential. Between the chatting we looked upwards - wonderful cloud formations.
The main feeling I got was one of peace and protection inside the cloister. Perhaps those intertwined branches felt like the ancestors protective embrace and how we all are connected and linked together. The entrance reminded me of an old beehive. Again, connecting with that feeling of community that was inside.
I could sense the peace and calm that was in the group and found it very soothing. All in all a lovely way to connect with the ancestors, and loved ones who have passed.
And from one of the participants:
When we walked through the entrance to the Yew Cloister, it was like entering a different world - a world of quiet, peacefulness and reverence. We found ourselves in a natural cathedral whose Cloisters were made entirely by the intertwining branches of the magnificent Yew trees. We found ourselves a spot within this wonderful space and opened the circle for our Samhain celebration. We shared poems, music and then dispersed for a few quiet minutes of reflection as we rambled through the trees.
Interestingly, given the day that was in it and the tradition of the Yew being associated with Ancestors, I followed a path which led to a small graveyard at the back of the Cathedral.
When we returned to the circle some shared the experiences of their reflections and then the ancestors were remembered and honoured. It was during this that I realised that as people of all ages passed near our circle, they went quiet as a sign of respect to the strange folk in a circle in a clearing. No judgement, no jeering, just reverence - as if they sensed we were involved in continuing a tradition that our ancestors have been involved in for thousands of years.
When we finished we adjourned to the steps of the college for our customary tea and cake in the sun... plus a wonderful chat of course. Our Samhain celebration was at an end - another wonderful experience with friends... and the ancestors of course!
And in Switzerland, Marta and Dana celebrated with friends
Table decorations. Much chatter and laughter and the extensive use of a tiny little spooky sound machine (cackles and screams and ghostly sounds).
Our ritual included the Morrigan and Horned God, also acknowledging Cailleach, Hecate and Cerridwen. For once nobody had wanted to be left out.
Loo roll bats
Ancestor's altar
31 October 2015 - Loughcrew - Clearing a path for the Wisdom of our Ancestors
(tree image courtesy of somaywebe.com)
Any one attending is asked to bring clear quartz crystal for part of the ceremony, which they will be able to take home.
Weather permitting a walk up to the cairns.
The celebration will centre on aligning ourselves with our ancestors.
We will meditate to focus and clear any energies that need removing.
The group will write any words or messages received onto paper.
The crystals will be cleared and energized. Clear pure intentions will be put into the crystals to assist the ancestors to bring their wisdom to us.
A path will be created using fallen leaves which we will walk through.
A channel will be cleared to allow for the crystals and intentions to be placed on the path to create the wisdom energy.
Open heart - Tea and treats!
The narrow winding route up to the Centre and Hill is beautiful in autumn colours.
Signs to the Megalithic Centre at the car park at the entrance onto Loughcrew Hill -
the white buildings at the Centre have their own car park, but are only a short walk down from this roadside car park as well.
This memorial reminds us that what is conceived between Autumn Equinox and Samhain is born next Summer Solstice.
In Memory of Mick Tobin (1918 - 2011) - Child of the Solstice
George R Knight - June 2008
We left you dancing at your party,
surrounded by your friends and neighbours.
Speeches tugged at heartstrings
a life well lived described with eloquence.
You danced a jig before us all,
years slipped away.
A young man looking out on a long future
That old devil Father Time tied,
trrussed and helpless in the corner,
His presence not recognised.
The Old women became like the young girls
they once had been in your presence.
They tilted back their heads
grey locks became the golden hair of Youth.
All life spread out,
a feast to be enjoyed and we are dining still.
We jested, laughed and sang
and still enjoyed the power of The Hill.
When you were conceived ninety years ago
the Cairn on Loughcrew
With sunlight filled - the Autumn Equinox.
A child of Summer Solstice born and
that sunlight around you shining still.
These steps take you up onto the Hill.
If you want to meet the ethereal Cailleach there, and the weather is good, some will meet and walk up 4pm on 31st before the gathering at 5pm
Walking up the hillside as the light fades
Cairn T in the Samhain sunset
Cairn T
Loughcrew landscape
Loughcrew Samhain sunset
Inside the Centre, the path is set up for the wisdom of the Ancestors
Turnip Lanterns
thanks to Anne N ©
for these photographs of her carving
31 October 2015
From Marta - They were in a woodland near Zurich
We called on Hekate and the Horned God, on the time of this season, blessed the past year and welcomed and blessed the upcoming year, let go of things that shall not follow us into the new year and made wishes for the new year.
Then we remembered the past ones and shared stories and memories. It's interesting - the circle tends to become somewhat cooler, or a person or more feel a bit colder during this sharing. It was a very mild and warm evening and when mentioning one person I felt cooler air surrounding me for a while.
- Samhain archive
Samhain 2017 - Chain Reaction - Zurich, Switzerland & Holy Well, Tara 2016 - Good Spirits - Yew Cloister, Gormanston 2015 - Clearing a Path for the...
Samhain 2017 text and info
Samhain 2017 – by Marta and Dana Explanation from the wiccan side: Samhain is the ending of the old year and the beginning of the new year. So...
Page last updated: 10th Apr 2018


text: Competition Criminal Enforcement in Canada The Year in Review 2015 By Christopher Naudie and Michelle Lally COMPETITION CRIMINAL ENFORCEMENT IN CANADA: THE YEAR IN REVIEW 2015 Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt llp 2 Table of Contents Introduction 3 The Bureau's "Re-Alignment" of Enforcement Resources 4 The Bureau's Enforcement Activity 5 The Bureau's Unsuccessful Prosecution in R. V. Durward 9 The Bureau's Unsuccessful Prosecution in R. V. Nestlé 11 Commissioner's Response – Lessons Learned & Review of the Immunity Program 15 The Commissioner's Commitment to Transparency 17 The Canadian Government's New Integrity Regime 18 Conclusion – The Year Ahead 21 COMPETITION CRIMINAL ENFORCEMENT IN CANADA: THE YEAR IN REVIEW 2015 Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt llp 3 Introduction At first glance, the Commissioner of Competition's enforcement activities in 2015 might appear to represent another typical year in criminal enforcement in Canada. The cartels directorate remained relatively busy with a number of active investigations, and the Commissioner announced new pleas in several international cartel cases, particularly in the auto-parts and infrastructure sectors. But 2015 was anything but typical. In short, the Commissioner's enforcement credentials were tested in two significant domestic prosecutions – namely, the Crown's prosecution of a group of chocolate manufacturers for price-fixing in R. v. Nestlé and the Crown's prosecution of several IT services companies for bid-rigging in R. v. Durward. In both cases, the Crown was unable to secure a conviction; in R. v. Nestlé, the Crown voluntarily stayed all remaining charges and in R. v. Durward, the jury returned an acquittal and the Competition Bureau subsequently closed the balance of its case. Moreover, in R. v. Nestlé, the Public Prosecution Service in Canada undermined the Bureau's immunity program by taking the extraordinary step of seeking compelled production of an immunity applicant's internal investigation files – raising serious questions relating to the Crown's respect for privilege and the future operation of the Bureau's immunity and leniency programs in Canada. Indeed, as a result of these developments, the Commissioner has announced a comprehensive review of the immunity program in 2016, and a major internal review to assess "lessons learned" from these failed prosecutions.1 In our annual report on antitrust criminal enforcement in Canada, we examine these key developments as part of our survey of the leading investigations by the Commissioner and prosecutions by the Public Prosecution Service in Canada (PPSC).2 We also discuss the courts' most important judicial decisions, and consider their implications for domestic and international price-fixing investigations. In addition, we review the Commissioner's latest public statements and compliance guidance related to the immunity and leniency programs, and highlight a number of areas where we can expect significant changes to the programs in 2016. 1 Similar to other jurisdictions, the Commissioner has adopted immunity and leniency policies in the cartel enforcement area. See Competition Bureau, "Bulletin: Immunity Program under the Competition Act" (dated June 7, 2010) and "Bulletin: Leniency Program" (dated September 29, 2010). 2 In Canada, the Commissioner is the law enforcement officer that is responsible for the investigation and enforcement of the criminal provisions of the Competition Act, R.S.C. 1985, c. C-34 (the Act), but he is not empowered to bring criminal proceedings. Rather, the Public Prosecution Service of Canada (the PPSC) is responsible for pursuing criminal prosecutions in the name of the Crown. As a result, the role of the Commissioner is generally focused on investigating offences, making recommendations for immunity/leniency/prosecution, and if a prosecution is brought, to support and assist the PPSC's prosecutors in the conduct of their prosecution. 1 COMPETITION CRIMINAL ENFORCEMENT IN CANADA: THE YEAR IN REVIEW 2015 Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt llp 4 The Bureau's "Re-Alignment" of Enforcement Resources In early 2015, the Bureau implemented a significant internal restructuring that sought to re-align the enforcement branches of the Bureau.3 More specifically, the Bureau merged some of the branches with a view to creating a "stronger and more adaptive agency" to promote competition throughout Canada. On the criminal enforcement side, the Bureau merged the former Criminal Matters Branch with the Fair Business Practices Branch, and renamed the new branch the Cartels and Deceptive Marketing Practices Branch. Within the new branch, the Bureau formed two new organizational directorates – the Cartels Directorate (responsible for overseeing investigations into price-fixing, bid-rigging and other criminal matters) and the Deceptive Marketing Practices Directorate (responsible for overseeing investigations into deceptive marketing practices, which may be subject to both criminal as well as civil enforcement action). The re-alignment resulted in two significant leadership changes at the Bureau. Matt Boswell, the former head of the Criminal Branch, was named Senior Deputy Commissioner with responsibility over the new combined branch. In his place, the Bureau recruited Stéphane Hould, a veteran federal prosecutor from the PPSC to serve as Deputy Commissioner of the Cartels Directorate. The appointment is noteworthy since this is the first time in memory that the Bureau has appointed a former federal prosecutor to lead this branch. His appointment will bring some valuable prosecution experience to the new Cartels Directorate and will hopefully improve coordination between the Bureau and the PPSC. 3 Competition Bureau Press Release, entitled "Competition Bureau restructures to maximize its contribution to a more competitive marketplace" (dated March 25, 2015). 2 COMPETITION CRIMINAL ENFORCEMENT IN CANADA: THE YEAR IN REVIEW 2015 Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt llp 5 The Bureau's Enforcement Activity The Commissioner continues to have an active book of ongoing investigations. In his most recent quarterly report from the spring of 2015, the Commissioner reported that there were 120 live investigations at the Bureau (including both civil and criminal investigations), representing a modest increase from 2013–2014. At the same time, there appears to have been a significant drop in new immunity and leniency applications. The Commissioner reported that he granted 20 immunity markers and 17 leniency markers in 2014–2015, whereas he granted 82 immunity markers and 40 leniency markers in 2013–2014.4 Much of the enforcement activity at the Cartels Directorate has been focused on the Commissioner's ongoing investigation of price-fixing and bid-rigging allegations in the auto-parts sector. In particular, since 2009, international regulators have been investigating allegations of bid-rigging in respect of the pricing of a number of automotive components, including safety systems such as seat belts, airbags, steering wheels and anti-lock brake systems, and critical parts such as anti-vibration rubber, instrument panel clusters, starter motors and wire harnesses. To date, the U.S. Department of Justice has laid charges against 33 corporations and 50 individuals, and has secured criminal pleas that included over US $2.4 billion in criminal fines. Given the importance of the automotive sector in Canada, the Commissioner is continuing his own aggressive criminal investigation of these same products that may have affected Canadian consumers. To date, the Commissioner has granted over 200 immunity and leniency markers to 21 co-operating parties – a record for the Cartels Directorate.5 The Commissioner has also secured eight guilty pleas and over $58 million in fines in respect of a number of different products ever since the Commissioner started investigating the auto-parts sector in 2009.6 In 2014, the Commissioner secured four additional guilty pleas, and the Commissioner has confirmed that the Bureau benefited extensively from co-operation through the immunity and leniency programs. In 2015, the 4 Competition Bureau, Quarterly Report for period ending March 31, 2015. 5 See reported markers set out in the Speech by Commissioner of Competition John Pecman, "Cutting through the noise" (dated December 8, 2015). 6 Competition Bureau Press Release, "Toyo Tire fined $1.7 million for participating in bid-rigging conspiracy" (dated December 9, 2015). 3 COMPETITION CRIMINAL ENFORCEMENT IN CANADA: THE YEAR IN REVIEW 2015 Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt llp 6 Commissioner announced that he had secured one additional plea – in December, he reached a plea agreement with Toyo Tire & Rubber Co., Ltd. (Toyo), whereby Toyo agreed to plead guilty to three counts of bid-rigging and receive a fine of $1.7 million for its involvement in a bid-rigging conspiracy relating to the supply of anti-vibration components.7 In addition to his enforcement activity in connection with international pricefixing investigations, the Commissioner has placed a continuing priority on pursuing allegations of domestic bid-rigging in the infrastructure sector. In its submission to the OECD Competition Committee's October 2015 roundtable on "Serial offenders: a discussion on why some industries seem prone to endemic collusion," the Bureau reported that over the last 20 years, it has investigated more instances of alleged collusion in the Canadian construction industry than in any other industry in Canada. The Bureau's submission discusses the market 7 Competition Bureau Press Release, "Toyo Tire fined $1.7 million for participating in bid-rigging conspiracy" (dated December 9, 2015). COMPETITION CRIMINAL ENFORCEMENT IN CANADA: THE YEAR IN REVIEW 2015 Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt llp 7 characteristics of the construction industry that are conducive to repeated collusion and provides an overview of the ways in which different levels of government in Canada have reacted to this type of criminal behaviour (e.g., a sector-wide public inquiry in the province of Québec; legislative amendments; and new policy regimes aimed at tightening procurement rules). In 2015, the Commissioner announced several significant domestic indictments and pleas in respect of the infrastructure sector, particularly in the province of Québec. For example, in June 2015, the Commissioner issued 44 criminal charges against three companies and four individuals relating to an alleged bid-rigging scheme in respect of municipal water services in Québec.8 At the same time, the Commissioner announced a plea from one company that received a $117,000 fine for its role in the alleged bid-rigging scheme. In December 2015, the Commissioner announced an additional plea relating to sewer services in Québec. In particular, a small contracting company pleaded guilty and received a modest fine of $10,000. As a result, the Commissioner has now secured fines from four companies, and one individual has been ordered to do 100 hours of community service.9 The Commissioner also secured a number of new fines in connection with the PPSC's ongoing prosecution of local gas companies in Québec relating to an alleged scheme to fix the price of retail gasoline in Québec. More specifically, in 2014, the Québec Superior Court found an Ontario company, Les Pétroles Global Inc., guilty of price-fixing under the Act. In April 2015, the Court sentenced the company to a $1 million fine. The Court's fine was part of a wider Bureau investigation that resulted in charges being laid against 39 individuals and 15 companies in 2008, 2010 and 2012 for their role in a gasoline price-fixing conspiracy in four local markets in Québec. To date, 33 individuals and seven companies have pleaded or were found guilty with fines totalling over $4 million. The case is noteworthy since it is one of the few recent cases where the PPSC and the Bureau have successfully secured custodial sentences against individuals (i.e., jail time). Out of the 33 individuals who pleaded or were found guilty, six have been sentenced to terms of imprisonment in Québec totalling 54 months.10 The Commissioner obtained a significant penalty against an individual as part of a plea in his ongoing investigation into bid-rigging related to information technology services delivered to Library and Archives Canada – an investigation that resulted in charges against private contractors as well as former public servants. The Commissioner commenced his investigation in 2009, and announced charges against a number of companies and individuals in 2014. In May 2015, the Commissioner stated that Stephen Forgie, a former employee of Microtime Inc., had pleaded guilty to bid-rigging. Mr. Forgie received a fine of $23,000, and he also received an 18-month conditional sentence where he was required to serve the first six months under house arrest.11 8 Competition Bureau Press Release, "Criminal charges laid in a Competition Bureau investigation relating to water services provided by Quebec companies" (dated June 23, 2015). 9 Competition Bureau Press Release, "Guilty plea in Quebec sewer services cartel" (dated December 17, 2015). 10 Competition Bureau Press Release, "Les Pétroles Global Inc. fined $1 million for gasoline price-fixing in Quebec" (dated April 15, 2015). 11 Competition Bureau Press Release, "Ontario individual sentenced after pleading guilty to bid-rigging" (dated May 21, 2015). In spite of the level of activity, the Commissioner experienced a slower year in 2015 in terms of the deterrence - namely the overall amount of fines and sentences imposed by the courts. COMPETITION CRIMINAL ENFORCEMENT IN CANADA: THE YEAR IN REVIEW 2015 Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt llp 8 On the deceptive telemarketing front, in 2015, three Montréal-based telemarketers were sentenced by the Court of Québec for their participation in a deceptive telemarketing scheme that sold marketed directories, subscriptions to online directories, office supplies, and medical kits at inflated prices using misleading sales techniques. The three individuals were sentenced, in the aggregate, to conditional sentences of 21 months, 470 hours of community service and ordered to pay more than $60,000 in fines. The scheme targeted thousands of businesses in Canada and abroad and generated over $172 million in gross sales. The sentences followed charges laid in 2011 against five participating individuals and four Montréal-based companies for making misleading representations and engaging in deceptive telemarketing under the Competition Act and fraud under the Criminal Code. In spite of the level of enforcement activity, the Commissioner experienced a slower year in 2015 in terms of the deterrence - namely the overall amount of fines and sentences imposed by the courts. In 2015, the Commissioner only announced one plea in an international cartel case (Toyo's plea for a fine of $1.7 million). The Commissioner did announce a number of pleas in domestic cases, but the total fines imposed by Canadian courts for cartel and bid-rigging offences in 2015 was under $2.9 million.12 The Commissioner did obtain a significant conditional sentence against individuals in the Library and Archives Canada case and the Montréal telemarketing case, but they included a component of house arrest without any jail time. As a result, the Commissioner's enforcement record in 2015 has been scrutinized through the lens of his handling of two large domestic criminal prosecutions before the Ontario courts. In both cases, the Commissioner's efforts to achieve deterrence foundered in the courtroom – he was unable to obtain a conviction in either case, and he abandoned any further enforcement activity. 12 See Competition Bureau, "Penalties Imposed by Courts (2015)" found at the Competition Bureau's website at http://www.competitionbureau.gc.ca/eic/site/cb-bc.nsf/eng/01863.html (reposted in November 2015, and adjusted to reflect Toyo's plea). COMPETITION CRIMINAL ENFORCEMENT IN CANADA: THE YEAR IN REVIEW 2015 Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt llp 9 The Bureau's Unsuccessful Prosecution in R. v. Durward In R. v. Durward, the Crown suffered a significant courtroom loss in the context of a bid-rigging prosecution under the Competition Act. In brief, in 2005, three government agencies (Canada Border Services Agency, Transport and Public Works) awarded a number of major procurement contracts to a set of information technology service firms pursuant to a competitive process. In response to a complaint from one of the unsuccessful bidders, the Bureau conducted an investigation into potential criminal bid-rigging activity in respect of certain bidding processes associated with the contracts, representing approximately $65 million in technology services. The Bureau issued search warrants in 2006, and ultimately referred the case to the Public Prosecution Service in 2008. In 2009, the Crown issued charges against 14 individuals and seven companies. Following a small number of pleas, the Crown prosecuted a select number of the remaining entities for the offences of bid-rigging under section 47(1)(b) of the Competition Act and conspiracy under section 465(1)(c) of the Criminal Code. If convicted, the accused faced possible imprisonment and substantial fines, as well as debarment from conducting business with the federal government for up to 10 years. The Commissioner suffered his first tactical defeat in the case in 2013. Prior to trial, the accused challenged the constitutionality of section 69(2) of the Competition Act. Section 69(2) creates several evidentiary presumptions in favour of the Commissioner under the Competition Act, including an evidentiary presumption that certain acts or records in the possession of an agent of a party were done with the authorization or knowledge of that party. The accused challenged section 69(2) as a reverse onus of proof that was unconstitutional under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. In a pre-trial ruling in 2014, Justice Warkentin agreed section 69(2) was unconstitutional and was of no force and effect in a criminal proceeding. As a result, the Commissioner was unable to rely on an important provision of the Act in his ongoing case. 4 COMPETITION CRIMINAL ENFORCEMENT IN CANADA: THE YEAR IN REVIEW 2015 Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt llp 10 The trial commenced in September 2014 against six individuals and three companies. Following eight months of complex evidence and legal argument, the trial concluded in April 2015. In May, the jury returned an acquittal of the individuals and companies. After some internal consideration, the Commissioner determined not to pursue further proceedings in the case.13 The outcome of R. v. Durward represented a significant loss for the Commissioner. The Commissioner had conducted an investigation over eight years and had recommended the case for prosecution to the Crown. However, in spite of the investment of enormous investigative resources, the Crown was unable to obtain a conviction against a single defendant. In Canada, juries do not explain the reasons for their decision. However, Justice Warkentin's charge to the jury of more than 300 pages provides some insight into the gaps in the Bureau's investigation and the likely reasons for the jury's decision to acquit. While stating that the Bureau's "investigation as a whole is not on trial," the judge did advise the jury that they may consider the allegations by the defence that the investigation was flawed because of the failure of the investigators to produce a key document and "their failure to investigate the knowledge on the part of government officials of the consortium of the accused." The judge reviewed in detail the legal elements of the bid-rigging offence that the Crown is required to prove beyond a reasonable doubt and the evidence relating to each of these elements. Of particular interest is the judge's review of • whether the RFP in question was a "call for bids or tenders" within the meaning of section 47 • whether, if the RFP was a call for bids or tenders, the accused honestly albeit mistakenly believe that the RFP was not a call for bids or tenders • assuming there was an agreement or arrangement between the accused on the bids or tenders, whether such agreement or arrangement was "made known" to the person calling for the bids or tenders at or before the time when they were submitted. In this regard the judge instructed the jury that "made known requires express notification to the person calling for bids or tenders" but that express notification may be satisfied by either direct evidence or the circumstantial evidence The trial judge's review of section 47 is helpful comprehensive guidance on the legal elements the Crown must prove beyond a reasonable doubt to secure a conviction. The evidence as laid out in the trial judge's instructions as well as the outcome in R. v. Durward do suggest that the Competition Bureau needs to apply more rigour and discipline in its investigations to establish the offence of bid-rigging in future cases. 13 Competition Bureau Press Release, "Competition Bureau to consider not-guilty verdicts in major bid-rigging case" (dated April 27, 2015). The outcome of R. v. Durward represented a significant loss for the Commissioner. COMPETITION CRIMINAL ENFORCEMENT IN CANADA: THE YEAR IN REVIEW 2015 Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt llp 11 The Bureau's Unsuccessful Prosecution in R. v. Nestlé For a number of years, the Commissioner had been investigating allegations of price-fixing among chocolate manufacturers in Canada. The Commissioner's investigation attracted significant public and media attention in Canada, since it was a domestic conspiracy case involving a well-recognized consumer product. Moreover, in contrast to a number of local and regional cases emerging from the infrastructure sector, the chocolate case involved allegations of price-fixing on a national level that implicated senior executives.14 However, similar to the outcome in R. v. Durward, the Crown was unable to obtain a conviction at trial. While the Commissioner had recommended the case for prosecution and though the Crown had filed charges in 2013, the Crown concluded two years later that there was no reasonable prospect of conviction and voluntarily stayed the remaining charges against the accused. Perhaps more importantly, the Crown's prosecution exposed some significant fault lines in the Commissioner's immunity and leniency programs. In a highly unusual development, the Crown initiated a contested public dispute with the immunity applicant and the leniency applicant relating to disclosure and privilege, and the Crown took the extraordinary step of issuing subpoenas against legal counsel to obtain production of the immunity and leniency applicants' own internal investigation files. The background to the Crown's prosecution can be summarized as follows. In 2007, the Commissioner received a confidential application for immunity from a manufacturer in the chocolate industry (subsequently disclosed to be Cadbury) in respect of a potential price-fixing agreement relating to confectionery chocolate products sold across Canada. Pursuant to the requirements of the immunity program, Cadbury applied for a marker and conducted an extensive attorney's proffer with the Competition Bureau.15 14 While the Competition Bureau has prosecuted many domestic conspiracies in recent years, most of those conspiracies involved regional conspiracies implemented by mid-level managers or sales representatives (e.g., the Commissioner's recent prosecution of price-fixing allegations in the retail gasoline case in Québec). 15 These facts relating to the identity of the immunity applicant and the proffer process are publicly reported in the Court's decision. 5 COMPETITION CRIMINAL ENFORCEMENT IN CANADA: THE YEAR IN REVIEW 2015 Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt llp 12 Consistent with the prevailing practice in Canada, Cadbury claimed privilege over all of its proffer discussions and negotiations with the Bureau and relied on judicial authorities that confirm that plea negotiations with the Crown are subject to settlement privilege. In late 2007, the Commissioner executed search warrants against a number of manufacturers of chocolate products (namely, Hershey, Mars and Nestlé) as well as a distributor of chocolate products (namely, ITWAL). The Commissioner subsequently recommended to the PPSC that Cadbury receive immunity from prosecution, and Cadbury negotiated and entered into an immunity agreement with the Crown in 2008. Under that immunity agreement, Cadbury agreed to a number of standard co-operation commitments in respect of the production of non-privileged documents and access to witnesses. Cadbury's co-operation commitments specifically did not extend to privileged information. On that basis, and consistent with the Commissioner's public statements relating to the immunity program,16 the Competition Bureau and the Crown did not seek access to the immunity applicant's privileged internal investigation files. The Commissioner's prior policy mirrored the policy of the U.S. Department of Justice, which does not require a leniency applicant to waive privilege over its internal investigation to obtain leniency.17 After a number of years of further investigation, the Commissioner recommended that the Crown bring criminal charges under the Competition Act. In 2013, the Crown accepted that recommendation and brought charges against Nestlé, Mars and ITWAL as well as several individual executives. At the same time, the Crown announced that it had reached a plea agreement under the leniency program with Hershey. Hershey pleaded guilty to an offence under the Competition Act and accepted a criminal fine of $4 million. Consistent with the Commissioner's policies under the leniency program, Hershey's executives were spared from further prosecution.18 At that time, notwithstanding the Competition Bureau's six-year investigation, the Crown's prosecution began to hit troubled water over disclosure issues. Under Canadian law, the Crown is under an obligation to disclose all relevant and non-privileged information in its possession to the accused. The accused demanded production of the Competition Bureau's "proffer notes" – namely, the Bureau's own internal records of its proffer discussions and negotiations with Cadbury and Hershey under the immunity and leniency programs. In response, the Crown produced a number of those notes, without Cadbury's or Hershey's consent or approval. Shortly thereafter, the Crown was reminded that those notes remained subject to a claim of settlement privilege, and the Crown subsequently demanded the return of those notes. Following protests from the accused, the Crown brought an application to determine whether the Crown's proffer notes were subject to privilege. Since Cadbury and Hershey were the claimants of the privilege, the Court granted intervenor status to both parties. In February 2015, the Court ruled that the Crown was under an obligation to produce its proffer notes to the accused. In his reasons, Justice Nordheimer accepted that an immunity applicant or leniency applicant was entitled to assert settlement privilege over its proffer discussions and negotiations with the Crown. 16 See Competition Bureau, "Immunity Program FAQs" (dated September 25, 2013), Q. 20. 17 See U.S. Department of Justice, Antitrust Division, "Frequently Asked Questions Regarding the Antitrust Division's Leniency Program and Model Leniency Letters," Q. 16 (dated November 19, 2008). 18 Competition Bureau Press Release, "Hershey pleads guilty in price-fixing cartel" (dated June 21, 2013). ...the Crown's prosecution exposed some significant fault lines in the Commissioner's immunity and leniency programs. COMPETITION CRIMINAL ENFORCEMENT IN CANADA: THE YEAR IN REVIEW 2015 Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt llp 13 However, under the particular circumstances, Justice Nordheimer concluded that any claim of privilege was displaced or subject to an exception in favour of the accused's right of full answer and defence. In his reasons, Justice Nordheimer placed significant reliance on the fact that the accused were subject to a live criminal prosecution, and Cadbury and Hershey had agreed to provide witnesses that would testify against the accused. Moreover, Justice Nordheimer noted that Cadbury and Hershey were not subject to any actual prejudice arising from production of the proffer notes, particularly since they had resolved their potential criminal and civil liability relating to the matter. Pursuant to that ruling, the Crown produced its proffer notes to the accused. But in a highly unusual move, the Crown then issued a unilateral demand to the immunity and leniency applicants for production of their internal COMPETITION CRIMINAL ENFORCEMENT IN CANADA: THE YEAR IN REVIEW 2015 Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt llp 14 investigation files. The immunity and leniency applicants refused production, on grounds of privilege as well as on the basis that there was no obligation to produce such files under the Commissioner's policies or their respective immunity and leniency agreements. In response to that refusal, the Crown took the extraordinary step of obtaining an unilateral production order under the Criminal Code (a form of compulsive legal process) against the immunity and leniency applicants – as well as against the law firms that represented the immunity and leniency applicants. The Crown defended its actions on the basis that it was only seeking disclosure of the "facts and information" that were contained in the privileged internal investigation memos prepared by Cadbury's and Hershey's legal counsel. However, the Crown's unilateral action appeared contrary to the Commissioner's own policies. Moreover, the Crown's actions were out of step with other regulators. In their challenge to the production order, Cadbury and Hershey argued that the Crown's production order represented an unprecedented assault on solicitor-client privilege and an unauthorized and unconstitutional seizure of records from a law firm. In advance of a scheduled hearing date, Cadbury and Hershey withdrew their challenge, voluntarily complied with the production order and produced their respective redacted internal investigative memos to the Crown in July 2015 – and the Crown focused its efforts on seeking to secure a trial date. However, for reasons that were not fully explained, in September 2015, the Crown voluntarily stayed its charges against Mars and ITWAL and their former executives. Two months later, in November 2015, the Crown stayed its charges against Nestlé and its former chief executive offer. As a result of that decision, the Bureau closed its eight-year criminal investigation in respect of alleged price-fixing relating to chocolate confectionery products. The Crown's abandonment of the prosecution in R. v. Nestlé in 2015 represented another setback for the Commissioner's enforcement credentials. In spite of the Commissioner's investment of substantial investigative resources over eight years, the Crown was again unable to secure a conviction in a major domestic cartel case. The Crown's decision to withdraw its charges was particularly striking given that the Bureau had recommended prosecution and the Crown had accepted that recommendation in 2013. In short, it is difficult to understand what transpired between 2013 and 2015 to cause the Crown to reverse their views on the prospects for conviction. Moreover, the Crown and the Bureau faced significant criticism from the bar for their heavy-handed tactics in seeking to seize documents from legal counsel for the immunity and leniency applicants, and their use of compulsory legal process to seize privileged documents appears to have done little to advance the Crown's prosecution. Cadbury and Hershey argued that the Crown's production order represented an unprecedented assault on solicitor-client privilege and an unauthorized and unconstitutional seizure of records from a law firm. COMPETITION CRIMINAL ENFORCEMENT IN CANADA: THE YEAR IN REVIEW 2015 Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt llp 15 Commissioner's Response – Lessons Learned & Review of the Immunity Program Following the outcome of these cases, the Commissioner made a series of public statements that offered a candid assessment of the Bureau's enforcement record. As the Commissioner stated at a public speaking event at the end of the year, "We've had some successes in our recent history. We have also had some setbacks. I won't pretend otherwise."19 To address these setbacks, the Commissioner announced that the Bureau was undertaking four concrete steps to review and potentially improve its existing enforcement practices: The Bureau will be conducting a review of the immunity and leniency programs in 2016 to determine whether changes or clarifications are necessary. To the extent that changes or clarifications are considered, he has committed to consult with the competition bar. The Bureau has initiated an internal "lessons learned" evaluation process with respect to its investigative procedures, "to determine whether there is anything we need to do differently." The Bureau is developing an internal "criminal intelligence unit." In particular, similar to other regulators, the unit will include a central repository for information gathered from all cartel investigations, complaints and intelligence from law enforcement agencies. The Bureau has committed to solidifying its domestic partnerships. In particular, the Bureau has signed MOUs with Public Works and Government Services Canada, the Ontario Provincial Police and, in November 2015, the RCMP. The most significant component of the Commissioner's plan is his commitment to review the immunity and leniency programs. His review is unusual, particularly given that the Competition Bureau conducted an 19 Speech by Commissioner of Competition John Pecman, "Cutting through the noise" (dated December 8, 2015). 6 1 2 3 4 COMPETITION CRIMINAL ENFORCEMENT IN CANADA: THE YEAR IN REVIEW 2015 Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt llp 16 extensive review of the program roughly two years ago that resulted in the publication of a detailed FAQ. However, it is expected that the review of the program will focus on the fissures that were identified in the R. v. Nestlé case – namely, issues of disclosure or privilege. In public statements, members of the Cartel Directorate have indicated that the Bureau is currently looking at increased use of recorded statements and "Queen for a Day" letters as well as disclosure requirements. Unfortunately, the Commissioner has made no public statements regarding the most contested issue in R. v. Nestlé – namely, whether the Commissioner will require and/or expect immunity and leniency applicants to produce privileged work product relating to their internal investigation in order to secure immunity or leniency. While the PPSC demanded such production in R. v. Nestlé, any such requirement is arguably unconstitutional – a state actor arguably cannot demand that a company or individual surrender its fundamental right to solicitor-client privilege as a condition of a plea bargain. Hopefully, the Commissioner will provide further clarity on those issues in 2016. COMPETITION CRIMINAL ENFORCEMENT IN CANADA: THE YEAR IN REVIEW 2015 Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt llp 17 The Commissioner's Commitment to Transparency Since his appointment as Commissioner in 2013, Commissioner John Pecman has made "transparency" a defining hallmark of his tenure at the Bureau. In his public statements, the Commissioner has repeatedly expressed his commitment to improving transparency of decision-making at the Bureau, including in respect of the Bureau's enforcement discretion. Pursuant to that commitment, in late 2015, the Commissioner published a comprehensive "Competition and Compliance Framework" that articulated a set of five guiding principles that will govern his enforcement powers – namely, the principles of confidentiality, fairness, predictability, timeliness and transparency.20 While these principles are general in application, the Commissioner's framework provides some helpful guidance for parties that are the subject of criminal investigations and enforcement proceedings in Canada: The Commissioner has publicly acknowledged, in a formal framework, that enforcement is only one tool for securing compliance with the Act. In particular, the Commissioner noted that he has a range of tools to achieve compliance, and "the Bureau's objective is to select the most effective and efficient instrument or instruments to address the specific situation." In that respect, the Commissioner acknowledged that contested enforcement proceedings are "costly and time-intensive," and may not be appropriate for every case. The Commissioner identified a list of factors that he will consider in exercising his enforcement discretion: economic impact, prevalence of conduct, evidence of market power, party conduct and case history, recidivism and deterring effect. Depending on the mix of factors involved, a particular matter may be more suited for a consensual resolution, or alternatively, may warrant a reduced sentence. The significance of the Competition and Compliance Framework is that it provides a new roadmap of principles for targets of criminal enforcement to plead their case before the Bureau. For example, a target in an international cartel investigation may submit that a particular case does not merit enforcement in view of the absence of any economic impact in Canada, or may argue in favour of a lenient sentence on the basis of the absence of any need for deterrence within Canada. 20 Competition Bureau, "Bulletin: Competition and Compliance Framework" (dated November 10, 2015). 7 1 2 COMPETITION CRIMINAL ENFORCEMENT IN CANADA: THE YEAR IN REVIEW 2015 Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt llp 18 The Canadian Government's New Integrity Regime In a significant development that will potentially impact leniency applicants and non-co-operating parties in criminal antitrust investigations in Canada, the Canadian government implemented some welcome changes to its policies relating to debarment in federal contracting and procurement. For a number of years, the Canadian government has had public integrity rules that place limits on parties that may contract with the federal government. In particular, under these rules, potential suppliers who seek to conduct business with the federal government are required to certify that they had not been convicted of specific integrity-related offences. In October 2010, the federal government expanded the list of integrity-related offences to include corruption, collusion or other anti-competitive activity under the Competition Act. However, at the time, the federal government softened the impact of these rules by including an express exemption from debarment where a company had co-operated with the Competition Bureau as part of the leniency program. In 2012, the federal government removed the leniency program exemption. As a result of this amendment, a supplier that had co-operated with the Bureau and pleaded guilty to an offence under the Competition Act through its participation in the leniency program, or any entity that was otherwise convicted of a criminal offence under the Act, was subject to automatic debarment for 10 years. Moreover, under these rules, a supplier could be debarred if it had a corporate affiliate that had pleaded guilty or been convicted under the Competition Act or even a foreign antitrust offence – even if the supplier had no involvement in the matter or no control over the affiliate. Given the potential consequences of debarment for companies that conduct business with the federal government, many were concerned that the debarment rules might discourage self-reporting and might impair the operation of the leniency program. In addition, under these rules, a number of significant global contractors with the federal government (including HP, Siemens and other multinationals) faced potential debarment in Canada as a result of pleas and fines that had been imposed upon distant affiliates in other jurisdictions. In the media, some suppliers openly criticized the federal government's "meat-cleaver" approach to debarment.21 21 The Globe and Mail, "Ottawa relaxes integrity rules for firms doing business with government" (dated July 6, 2015). 8 COMPETITION CRIMINAL ENFORCEMENT IN CANADA: THE YEAR IN REVIEW 2015 Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt llp 19 In response to submissions from organizations ranging from the Canadian Chamber of Commerce to the Canadian Bar Association, the federal government implemented some welcome changes to these rules that became effective in July 2015. In particular, the federal government adopted two critical changes: The federal government replaced the automatic debarment period of 10 years with a default debarment period of 10 years. In particular, a supplier can seek to reduce the debarment period to five years if the supplier can demonstrate it has co-operated with law enforcement authorities or has undertaken remedied action to address the wrongdoing. The federal government removed the automatic debarment that flowed from the actions of an affiliate. Rather, under the new rules, if an affiliate of a supplier has been convicted of a listed offence or a similar offence abroad, the federal government will conduct an "assessment" to determine if there was "any participation or involvement from the supplier in the actions that led to the affiliate's conviction." If that is determined to be the case, the supplier will be rendered ineligible. 1 2 COMPETITION CRIMINAL ENFORCEMENT IN CANADA: THE YEAR IN REVIEW 2015 Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt llp 20 However, in a less welcome change, the federal government also raised the spectre of debarment where a company is merely charged with a listed offence, as opposed to being convicted. In particular, under the new rules, a supplier may be ineligible to conduct business with the federal government if it is charged or "admits guilt" to one of the listed offences. The "admits guilt" provision is particularly troubling, since it could result in debarment of participants to an immunity agreement who receive immunity but who are required to admit misconduct as part of the agreement. This period of ineligibility may be extended if judicial proceedings are underway.22 To mitigate the potential impact of debarment on a company that had solely been charged with an offence, the federal government reserved the ability to take alternative action by imposing an interim agreement on the supplier. Once this power of alternative action was announced, many observers speculated whether the federal government would exercise that power in respect of SNC-Lavalin. SNC-Lavalin is a leading engineering firm based in Canada and is the principal contractor on many significant infrastructure projects. Following an extensive investigation, in early 2015, the Crown laid corruption and associated fraud charges against SNC-Lavalin and two subsidiaries relating to corruption allegations associated with certain international projects in Libya. In December 2015, the federal government announced that it had imposed an administrative agreement on SNC-Lavalin that will permit it to continue conducting business with the federal government. The terms of the agreement are confidential, but it is presumed to include a significant number of compliance measures that will advance the goals of the integrity regime.23 22 For a more detailed review of these revised rules, see Osler Update, "Ottawa Revises Integrity Framework for Public Procurement Contracts" (dated July 6, 2015). 23 Osler Blog Post, "SNC-Lavalin Avoids Federal Bidding Suspension" (dated December 15, 2015). The Canadian government implemented some welcome changes to its policies relating to debarment in federal contracting and procurement. COMPETITION CRIMINAL ENFORCEMENT IN CANADA: THE YEAR IN REVIEW 2015 Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt llp 21 Conclusion – The Year Ahead The year ahead will likely prove to be a watershed year for criminal antitrust enforcement in Canada. Most significantly, we can expect the Commissioner to complete his review of the immunity and leniency programs and his investigative process and protocols following the outcomes in R. v. Durward and R. v. Nestlé. Based on public statements, members of the Cartel Directorate have indicated that the Bureau is currently looking at increased use of recorded statements and Queen for a Day letters as well as disclosure requirements. However, it remains to be seen whether the Bureau is looking at further changes, or whether the Bureau is going to require and/or expect immunity and leniency applicants to produce privileged work product relating to their internal investigation in order to secure immunity or leniency. The Commissioner's next steps on these matters will be of immense interest to the bar and to targets of criminal investigation. In addition, we expect that the Commissioner will be emboldened to reassert his enforcement credentials in 2016. The Commissioner's ability to achieve deterrence is closely tied to his ability to successfully bring charges that lead to conviction in a courtroom. Given the outcomes in R. v. Durward and R. v. Nestlé, we can expect that the Commissioner will be incentivized to demonstrate his ability to achieve a conviction at trial, particularly in a domestic conspiracy case. As a result, we can expect renewed enforcement activity at the Cartels Directorate, and perhaps an increased willingness to prosecute cases at trial rather than to reach plea agreements. 9 COMPETITION CRIMINAL ENFORCEMENT IN CANADA: THE YEAR IN REVIEW 2015 Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt llp 22 AUTHORS TEAM PETER FRANKLYN Partner, Competition/ Antitrust & Foreign Investment email@example.com 416.862.6494 MAHMUD JAMAL Partner, Litigation firstname.lastname@example.com 416.862.6764 PETER GLOSSOP Partner, Competition/ Antitrust & Foreign Investment firstname.lastname@example.com 416.862.6554 SHULI RODAL Partner, Competition/ Antitrust & Foreign Investment email@example.com 416.862.4858 LAWRENCE E. RITCHIE Partner, Litigation email@example.com 416.862.6608 RIYAZ DATTU Partner, Competition/ Antitrust & Foreign Investment firstname.lastname@example.com 416.862.6569 KAELEIGH KUZMA Associate, Competition/ Antitrust & Foreign Investment email@example.com 416.862.6407 MICHELLE LALLY Chair, Competition/ Antitrust & Foreign Investment firstname.lastname@example.com 416.862.5925 CHRISTOPHER NAUDIE Partner, Litigation email@example.com 416.862.6811 Osler has extensive experience in providing clients who are faced with a Competition Bureau investigation or potential prosecution with responsive and practical legal advice. We assess and recommend ways to mitigate risk through preventative and compliance measures, and provide strategic advice when an initial inquiry becomes a full-blown investigation, whether on a domestic matter or one involving multi-jurisdictional activities. Where an investigation points to possible criminal liability, we assist clients in making the critical decision of whether to seek a marker under Competition Bureau's immunity or leniency policies, or to prepare to defend against an eventual prosecution. Whatever route is chosen, Osler can provide assistance from the initial inquiry through to the grant of immunity, negotiation of a leniency-based guilty plea or a full criminal trial. To find out more about Osler's Cartel and Criminal Antitrust Investigations practice group, please visit osler.com/criminal. Cartel and Criminal Antitrust Investigations practice group Maura Kathleen Monaghan Partner, Litigation email@example.com 212.909.7459 Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt llp Toronto Montréal Calgary Ottawa Vancouver New York | osler.com About Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP Osler is a leading law firm with a singular focus – your business. From Toronto, Montréal, Calgary, Ottawa, Vancouver and New York, we advise our Canadian, U.S. and international clients on an array of domestic and cross-border legal issues. Our collaborative "one firm" approach draws on the expertise of over 450 lawyers to provide responsive, proactive and practical legal solutions driven by your business needs. For over 150 years, we've built a reputation for solving problems, removing obstacles, and providing the answers you need, when you need them. It's law that works. © 2016 Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP All rights reserved. 01/2016


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Ovation AX Series Guitars offer the exact same specs and features of their LX siblings at a price that makes them exceptional values.The Ovation Custom Legend C2079 AX Deep Contour Acoustic-Electric Guitar features a hand-selected, premium AAA solid-spruce top with LX scalloped bracing. The guitar's Deep Contour Bowl composite body maximizes acoust... Click To Read More About This Product
Ovation AX Series Guitars offer the exact same specs and features of their LX siblings at a price that makes them exceptional values.
The Ovation Custom Legend C2079 AX Deep Contour Acoustic-Electric Guitar features a hand-selected, premium AAA solid-spruce top with LX scalloped bracing. The guitar's Deep Contour Bowl composite body maximizes acoustic output and is ergonomically designed for comfort in any playing position. A cutaway offers full access to the gloss-finished, 5-piece mahogany/maple neck. The guitar boasts an ebony fretboard and bridge, and hand-set abalone body and fretboard inlays. The traditional center soundhole has a gorgeous laser-cut oak-leaf and abalone rosette. With its onboard compressor, the OP-Pro Studio preamp enhances strummed chords, fingerpicked arpeggios, and single-note solos. Dual XLR and ¼" output jacks connect the Custom Legend Contour to virtually any sound system, stage amp, or recording console.
Deep Bowl
Ovation's Deep Bowl body generates maximum unamplified volume and enormous low end, yet it's easier to hold and play then a traditional jumbo-body guitar. Models sporting Deep Bowl bodies also perform impressively when plugged in, thanks to Ovation's advanced onboard electronics. A "sonic cannon" that shines either unplugged or through a sound system or stage amp, a Deep Bowl Ovation offers the best of both electric and acoustic worlds.
Advanced Neck System
A lightweight dual-action truss rod makes precision adjustments simple. Carbon fiber stabilizers keep the fingerboard perfectly aligned at the neck/body joint.
OP-Pro Studio
The OP-Pro Studio combines state-of-the-art audio quality with exclusive features designed to meet the needs of professional guitarists. The easy-to-operate unit offers 3-band EQ, exciter and compressor/limiter circuitry, and a chromatic tuner. Ovation's exclusive Expressor and Drive sliders put dynamic control and harmonic enhancement at your fingertips, allowing you to dial in the precise amount of sustain and punch required by the music.
The Op-Pro Preamp is voiced to give you arena-sized sound with a minimum of eq gymnastics. Every improvement comes directly from the needs of pro players and sound.
Patented Pickup
Six separate elements sense both string and top vibration, giving you a better string-to-string balance, no matter what string type or guage you use.
Inlaid Epaulets
The exotic wood leaf-shaped "epaulets" are now inlaid into the top with laser precision. The new cleaner design actually offers a slight sound enhancement.
Scalloped Bracing
Play an LX and prepare to be impressed by the hugeness of the acoustic sound. Deeper, richer but with the legendary Ovation balance and clarity.
Lyrachord Body
The smooth, hard composite Lyrachord GS body improves projection and reflects top vibrations better than traditional material and is now even lighter and stronger. Includes case.
Guitar Center's Pro Coverage
Pro Coverage gives you added warranty protection for your gear. Stepping in where the manufacturer's "normal wear and tear" coverage ends, our Pro Coverage program offers you upgraded coverage if your product ever fails Click To Read More About This Product.
Reviewed by 2 customers
Comments about Ovation Custom Legend C2079 AX Deep Contour Acoustic-Electric Guitar:
I am in my 50's and have been playing since I was 8 yrs. old. I've owned many guitars through the years. The Custom Legend is very comfortable and easy to play. It's neck is slightly thinner than my Gibson guitars - which is a feature that I like better. The tone is crisp and full. The sound remains clean even when I am playing further up the neck of the guitar. I've played it everyday for 2 weeks now and can't really find anything I dislike about it. It may not be the right guitar for a beginner (because of the cost), but it is a great purchase for the intermediate and advanced level musician. I can make great sound come out of this thing!
Comments about Ovation Custom Legend C2079 AX Deep Contour Acoustic-Electric Guitar:
I've owned a couple of ovation's and this ranks with all of them. I have been playing a long time and this is a remarkable guitar. The sound, the action, the AAA wood, and the great sound you get anywhere on the neck. I have owned and still have over the years many good guitars and this is my go to guitar. Once you pick it up you won't put it down!
Our product catalog varies by country due to manufacturer restrictions. If you change the Ship-To country, some or all of the items in your cart may not ship to the new destination.


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Transform your business with pointFASE IIoT
pointFASE modular IIoT technology can be used in isolation or together as a seemlessly integrated platform
Create a bespoke IIoT solution using pointFASE Builder with true drag & drop automation. Powerful, simple and fast.
Automate, control and monitor your equipment using an industrial pointFASE NODE and collect real-time smart data.
Using specific performance data collected locally see advanced historical, real-time and predictive analytics on our cloud platform.
Be it Predictive maintenance, real-time performance monitoring or even single part traceability. Turn your insights into real action.
Our products connect & control your equipment, collect smart operational data and let you view powerful analytics on the cloud
pointFASE Builder
Our drag & drop automation software is easy to use yet powerful. pointFASE Builder is used to develop a bespoke IIoT solution to connect, monitor and control your operation.
pointFASE NODE
A pointFASE NODE with specific sensors is used to deploy your IIoT solution. It is a rugged piece of hardware tested to IP67 and sits lineside connecting, monitoring and controlling equipment. This also collects data to be sent to pointFASE VLEPO.
pointFASE VLEPO
VLEPO is our cloud-based analytics platform where you can view your performance dashboards based on the data collected by pointFASE NODEs. See historical, real-time and predictive analytics.
Discover what's possible with pointFASE
Operations optimization
Monitor all points in the production process and increase productivity by between 10-25%
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Transform your maintenance model from one of repair and replace to predict and prevent
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Inventory ties up capital – track WIP levels over time to improve management of inventory
Get in touch to discuss a fast track assessment of your requirements
About Us
pointFASE is a British technology startup with innovative technology designed to rapidly implement automation & digital transformation solutions. pointFASE drives the connected Smart Factory. Based in Leamington Spa in the UK, pointFASE is in a perfect location to deliver the benefits of IIoT to all types of organisation.
Whatever your interest is in pointFASE we'd love to hear from you so don't hesitate to get in touch.
Unit 8
74 Rugby Road
Leamington Spa
United Kingdom
74 Rugby Road
Leamington Spa
United Kingdom


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We work to protect our air, land, water and health by moving Colorado off fossil fuels to a 100% renewable energy future.
The Energy Future We Deserve
We're working to transition Colorado away from fossil fuels to 100% renewable energy by 2035. Renewable energy can create thousands of good, local jobs, provide affordable energy to middle and low-income communities and give Coloradan's the truly clean energy future that we all deserve.
For decades, Colorado has been at the mercy of fossil fuel extraction that pollutes our air, contaminates our water and harms public health. It is one of the most fracked states in the country with more than 53,000 active fracking wells. Big Oil's stranglehold over the state's elected officials has made it nearly impossible to pass meaningful legislation to protect our families and has allowed the industry to encroach within hundreds of feet from where we live, work and play.
With leaks and explosions related to drilling and fracking becoming increasingly common, Colorado must take bold action to move away from dangerous fossil fuels and transition to 100% renewable energy.
Protecting Our Communities and Public Lands from Fracking
Colorado's exceptionally beautiful outdoors have been repeatedly targeted for fracking. Food & Water Watch is working to pass the Keep It in the Ground Act to keep fossil fuel extraction out of our public lands, oceans and the Arctic. The KING bill will ensure protection of these beautiful outdoor spaces for the benefit of the public and the planet – not the oil and gas industry.
Defending Clean Water for All
Water is a human right. Safe and affordable water service is a non-partisan, non-negotiable issue. Yet the federal government continues to slash desperately needed funding for water infrastructure. Budget cuts to our water systems put the health of entire communities in danger.
Food & Water Watch is working to pass the federal Water Affordability, Transparency, Equity and Reliability Act as a solution to renewed investments in our nation's drinking water and wastewater systems. The WATER Act has the potential to create nearly a million jobs and will generate a dedicated source of funding for much-needed water infrastructure projects by closing corporate tax loopholes, while ensuring that people have safe, affordable and publicly owned drinking water.
The Food & Water Watch Colorado team will continue efforts to defend our food, water and democracy, protect our communities from fracking and fight for a just transition away from dirty fossil fuels to a safe, renewable energy future.
Latest News
Colorado Campaigns
- State Campaign
Don't Frack Denver
Don't let the oil and gas industry frack away what makes Denver great.
Colorado Actions
Sign the petition: Don't frack Denver!
Connect with a Colorado Organizer
Lisa Trope, Senior Colorado Organizer
Lisa Trope is the Senior Colorado Organizer for Food & Water Watch, working with people across Colorado to hold their elected officials accountable to protecting our food, water, health and climate.


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You could go downtown. With good luck, you might even be able to hail a cab, your Uber car might actually show up, or a cheap or free parking space might magically appear with your name on it. Or, you could put on your walking shoes and ring in your new year at one of Harlem's many hot hang-outs. No matter what kind of night you crave, Morningsider can honestly say, "Harlem has it all!"
Many of your favorite restaurants are offering prix fixe dinners and champagne, and here is where you'll head after:
Bier International – Join Bier on Thursday, December 31st for their annual New Year's Eve House Party. This is a free, no-fuss event with a DJ and party favors, and where you can watch the ball drop on the big screens. Reservations accepted for parties of 8 or more. They're also open Friday, January 1st for their famous New Year's Day Hangover Brunch! Bier International, 2099 Frederick Douglass Blvd., NYC 10026 | www.bierinternational.com
Cheri – In its elegant living room setting, Cheri brings you a cabaret dinner with Miss Bousy Rouge, followed by dancing all night with DJ Tom Strokes. Dinner & party are $90/$25 for party only. Dinner starts at 8 or show up for the party at 10. Either way, remember to dress cabaret! Click HERE for reservations and more info. Cheri Harlem, 231 Malcolm X Blvd., NYC 10027 | www.cheriharlem.com
Cove – Ring in 2016 with Love & Hip Hop's Yandy Smith at Cove. Tickets are $125 per person; includes 1 bottle of champagne and 1 liter of Vodka per table (of 4). For tickets and info CLICK HERE or call 212.665.3455. Cove Lounge, 325 Malcolm X Blvd, NYC 10027 | www.covelounge.com
Gin Fizz – Love live music? Then this velvety hide-out may be the perfect New Year's Eve spot for you! General admission for Gin Fizz's Harlem Party is $20 or $50 table reservation per person. To reserve a table and find out more contact email@example.com or visit http://ginfizzharlem.com. Gin Fizz, 308 Malcolm X Blvd., NYC 10027
Ginny's Supper Club – Enjoy a multi-course New Year's Eve dinner with Nate Lucas & the Allstars, followed by a party and champagne toast at this glamorous speakeasy. Doors open at 7pm and the show begins at 8. The party gets started at 10pm. To reserve a table, please call 212 421 3821. (Dinner service is required for reserved seating). Tickets for the party are $40 but can be purchased at a $10 discount with dinner reservation. See more info HERE. Ginny's at Red Rooster, 210 Malcolm X Blvd., NYC 10027 | www.ginnyssupperclub.com
Paris Blues – The Les Goodson Jazz Band, Tyrone Gibson's Top Secret and others willl be plaing through the night at Paris Blues, Harlem's favorite jazz dive. There's never any cover to enter, and you don't have to dress up. Just show up and enjoy the show! Visit www.parisbluesharlem.com for more details. Paris Blues, 2021 Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. Blvd., NYC 10027
Silvana – Come as you are and party all night at Silvana with DJ Ouaga, The DJ starts spinning at 8pm but the New Year's Eve party kicks in at 10 through 3:45am. Visit http://silvana-nyc.com for more info. Silvana, 300 West 116th Street, NYC 10026
Shrine World Music Cafe – Or, dance the night away at Silvana's sister location, Shrine, with DJ Birane from Ivory Coast. Open 'til 3:45am. Visit http://shrinenyc.com for additional details. Shrine, 2271 Adam Clayton Powell, Jt. Blvd., NYC 10030
Dowtowners and all-arounders: We welcome you to our wonderful neighborhood for New Year's Eve. Our cabbies are nice and you may even find a parking spot with your name on it!
Happy New Year from Morningsider!


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Students in MICA's Book Arts courses created artist books based on materials from the library's collections
Posted 01.24.17 by Katherine Cowan
Fertile Ground: Artists Respond to a Collective Geography
A collaboration with the Decker Library & MICA Book Arts
Pinkard Gallery, MICA
January 20 - March 12, 2017
Opening reception January 27, 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.
In Spring 2016, Decker Library invited students from MICA's Book Arts courses to create an artist book based on materials from the library's collections. This exhibition Fertile Ground: Artists Respond to a Collective Geography results from that collaboration.
The students were challenged to select and respond to something from the library collections, to create a book art project that made sense in terms of their artistic practice and the requirements of the particular course in which they were enrolled, and to compose an artist statement about their work. All had the opportunity to have their work curated into this exhibition in MICA's Pinkard Gallery with visiting curator Cynthia Nourse Thompson '92 from the University of the Arts.
Faculty partners and their courses were Isabel Lederman (Artists' Books: Visual Poetry and Artists' Publications), Gail Deery (History of Paper Structure), and Stephanie Garmey (Mixed Media Book).
Fertile Ground: Artists Respond to a Collective Geography is partially funded by the Gladys Brooks Foundation, and is presented in conjunction with Book Arts Baltimore. Book Arts Baltimore is an informal partnership among several Baltimore-area institutions supporting a common goal: celebrating artists' books and book arts through exhibitions, courses, and programs offered in 2015-2017.
Image information:
Katie Schweitzer '18
Objet Trouvé and library source The Grammar of Ornament by Owen Jones (1868).
Photography by Arthur Soontornsaratool
Founded in 1826, Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) is the oldest continuously degree-granting college of art and design in the nation. The College enrolls nearly 3,500 undergraduate, graduate and continuing studies students from 49 states and 52 countries in fine arts, design, electronic media, art education, liberal arts, and professional studies degree and non-credit programs. With art and design programs ranked in the top ten by U.S. News and World Report, MICA is pioneering interdisciplinary approaches to innovation, research, and community and social engagement. Alumni and programming reach around the globe, even as MICA remains a cultural cornerstone in the Baltimore/Washington region, hosting hundreds of exhibitions and events annually by students, faculty and other established artists.
This page was last updated on 01/24/2017.


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PITTSBURGH — Le'Veon Bell disapproves of LaVar Ball's logic about beating Michael Jordan.
The Pittsburgh Steelers running back sent out a series of tweets responding to Ball, the outspoken father of the Ball brothers, including UCLA star Lonzo Ball.
Ball, 49, recently told USA Today that "back in my heyday, I would kill Michael Jordan one-on-one." Ball played at Washington State in the late '80s.
Bell wasted no time pointing out Ball's resume and how he'll "say anything for attention."
"Lavar Ball, you have to understand you averaged a whole 2 points per game at Washington State… [you] know damn well Jordan would TORCH you!" Bell said in a series of tweets.
The 6-foot-9 Ball averaged 2.2 points per game at Washington State, according to Yahoo! Sports.
Bell is a basketball man himself, known to discuss hoops with teammates in the locker room or play pick-up games locally. Looks like the Steelers will have a new debate topic once they reconvene for spring workouts.


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What Great Brands Do That Good Brands Don't in Content Marketing
Okay content is easy. Killer content is hard. This nifty eBook shows you the difference, based on our real-world work with dozens of brands. A must-read!
I'm a Senior Content Strategist/Senior Writer for Oracle Marketing Cloud, but I am also a Forbes contributor. I bring this up because I am always on the lookout for any marketing-related research to use as fodder for an article or post I am working on or to be the central basis of an article or post.
Such is the case with this very post, as I recently came across research via eMarketer on what types of content perform the best for B2B marketers versus which types are the most difficult to create.
As you can see from the chart, research also scores very high on the difficulty meter, and quite frankly, it should get high marks for difficulty. If you've ever seen the 1992 film A League of Their Own starring Tom Hanks and Geena Davis, you will recognize this quote: "It's supposed to be hard. If it wasn't hard, everyone would do it. The hard is what makes it great." Hanks' character (the manager of a baseball team) is explaining to Davis' character (a player on the team) why all the hard work she's put in to being a great player is worth it.
Marketing research is supposed to be difficult. If it wasn't difficult, everyone would do it. Of course, we all know there is research being done all the time—lots of people are doing it, but very few are doing it right. And by "right," I mean conducting true marketing research with quantifiable and qualifiable results. It also means creating a well-thought out plan and asking the following basic questions:
These questions just scratch the surface, of course, when it comes to setting up your plan to conduct market research. But when done correctly, that research can be a very effective tool in the B2B marketer's arsenal.
Get more content like this, plus the very BEST marketing education, totally free. Get our Definitive email newsletter.
Okay content is easy. Killer content is hard. This nifty eBook shows you the difference, based on our real-world work with dozens of brands. A must-read!


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IZA Business Centers Metropolis Patriotism is in a mixed use building class A + offering offices in rentade prestige and unparalleled corporate image thanks to its strategic location which includes spacious and modern access roads such as Av. Patriotism, Av. Revolucion, beltway the San Antonio distributor road. And an enviable proximity to Av Paseo de la Reforma and Insurgentes, that allow easy transfer to anywhere in Mexico City..
In the heart of a neuralgic area of he city, including great cultural, dining and entertainment centers, IZA Business Centers offers its services rental offices equipped and furnished world class ready for use, rent meeting rooms and virtual offices .
With your office at IZA Business Center Metropolis Patriotism you get everything in one place: innovation, elegance and a prime location. Because it has unique characteristics in the real estate market in Mexico City; visibility and access amid an environment of vitality and dynamism.