text:
Jay Ogilvy is a cofounder of Global Business Network. Trained in philosophy (Yale PhD in 1968), he taught for 7 years at Yale, 1 at Texas, 4 at Williams College. Then he transitioned into contract research and consulting at SRI International (formerly Stanford Research Institute) from 1979 to 1986. In 1987 he and four friends founded Global Business Network, a boutique consultancy that specializes in using scenario planning to develop long range strategies for large corporations and government agencies.
Jay is the author of Many Dimensional Man: Decentralizing Self, Society and the Sacred (Oxford, 1977; Harper& Row, 1980); Creating Better Futures (Oxford, 2000); China's Futures with Peter Schwartz (Jossey- Bass, 2001); Living Without a Goal (Doubleday, 1996). He is also the editor of Re-Visioning Philosophy (SUNY Press, 1991) which is an anthology based on a series of invitational conferences at Esalen and Cambridge University. He also edited An Actual Man: Michael Murphy and the Human Potential Movement (2010). He is a frequent facilitator of invitational conferences for Esalen's Center for Theory and Research, and chairs Esalen's Global Potentials Program.
Institute for Cultural Evolution
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Boulder, Colorado 80302 USA
The Institute for Cultural Evolution is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, tax-exempt organization.
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Rep. Bill Owens hangs on in 21st District
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Millions of dollars were spent on both sides of the aisle in New York's new 21st district in the North Country, but the representative will remain the same. Congressman Bill Owens defeated Matt Doheny for the second straight election cycle. Early Wednesday morning, the Watertown Republican said he called Owens to congratulate him. The Democrat was first elected to Congress in 2009 and is the first member of that party to represent the North Country sincensince the Civil War.
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- Tel:
- Work 0131 228 3777
- Fax:
- Fax 0131 228 3878
- Email:
- Web:
- https://www.brodies.com
Transport - ranked: tier 1
Brodies LLP
The 'vastly experienced' team at Brodies LLP handles the spectrum of road, rail and shipping work. It is well placed to advise clients on high-value Scottish transport projects, particularly in relation to marine and rail infrastructure. The shipping and marine group is led by the 'passionate' Duncan McLean, which spans contentious insurance, commercial and regulatory work, in addition to non-contentious matters including ship finance, sale, purchase and chartering. Roger Cotton is a rail specialist whose 'knowledge of franchising procedures is a great strength to bidders'. Odell Milne's 'overall depth of expertise and pragmatic advice' is noted. The group is advising Renfrewshire Council and Glasgow Council on a proposed rail link between Glasgow City Centre and Glasgow Airport, which is to be funded via the Glasgow City Deal. It continues to be instructed by Perth and Kinross Council in connection with a major road and bridge infrastructure project. On the shipping side, the team is advising Transocean on potential liabilities arising from the grounding of a large semi-submersible rig that occurred in August 2016. It is also the sole legal adviser to Lerwick Port Authority, handling matters including a decommissioning facility, the construction of a new quay, corporate deals and commercial developments by major industrial landlords.
Scotland: Corporate and commercial
Corporate and commercial: Edinburgh and Glasgow
Corporate and commercial: Edinburgh and Glasgow - ranked: tier 1
Brodies LLP
Brodies LLP 's team combines 'expertise, knowledge, people skills and attention to detail to ensure that the deal is completed in a timely manner'. Shuna Stirling leads the group, which includes 'real no-nonsense commercial lawyer' Neil Burgess and Julian Voge. Other names to note include William McIntosh, Derek Stroud (who focuses on the renewable energy and oil services sectors), food and drink group head Eric Galbraith and associate Liz Bruce. The firm handles a broad cross-section of mandates for Scottish, UK and international clients; its varied workload includes acquisitions and disposals, MBOs, joint ventures, restructurings and commercial contracts matters. Illustrative of the firm's excellent record in high-profile and landmark deals, in 2017, Stirling, Roger Cotton and associate Alasdair Dunn acted for Abellio in the sale of a 40% stake in the Greater Anglia rail franchise to Mitsui & Co., and also in new joint venture arrangements between Abellio and Mitsui. Burgess was the lead adviser to City Facilities Management Group on its strategic acquisition of Maintenance Management and Atrium Maintenance France, as part of the client's European expansion plans. McIntosh led a cross-practice team, which assisted Energy Services Group (which is backed by Accel-KKR) with its acquisition of Utiligroup, and with the related funding aspects of the deal. Martin Sloan has particular expertise in technology procurement (particularly in the financial services sector), IT outsourcing and data protection.
Leading individuals
Julian Voge - Brodies LLP
Shuna Stirling - Brodies LLP
Corporate and commercial: elsewhere in Scotland
Corporate and commercial: elsewhere in Scotland - ranked: tier 1
Brodies LLP
At Brodies LLP, 'overall performance is excellent, delivery is accurate and on time, and you get good value for expenditure'. Gill Summers, who has specialised in corporate and commercial law for more than 20 years, is among the highly regarded individuals in the team, which is 'friendly, helpful and just incredible'. Douglas Crawford has spearheaded the growth of the private equity side of the practice since his arrival from CMS in 2016; clients in this space include management teams, buyers, sellers and funding institutions. Crawford is also active in the UK M&A market. Tom Boulton-Jones handles corporate transactions across a number of sectors, such as food and drink, technology, and manufacturing and engineering. Clare Munro, Greg May and Sonia Love focus on matters connected with the oil and gas sector. Shuna Stirling leads the team, which also includes associates Shona Tennant and Gemma Hills, and also senior solicitor Hamish Blair. The firm attracts a significant number of large-scale transactions; Crawford led a multidisciplinary team in the advice to the shareholders of Craig Group Limited on the sale of North Star to Basalt Infrastructure Partners through Basalt's vehicle Ardmair Bay Holdings Limited; this was one of the biggest M&A deals in Scotland in 2017. Crawford was also the lead adviser to the shareholders of John Lawrie (Aberdeen) Limited on the sale and MBO of the company to Thunderbird Bidco Limited (an acquisition vehicle backed by Rubicon Partners and Grovepoint). Other clients include Drum Property Group, Tulloch Homes Group and Cooke Aquaculture.
Leading individuals
Douglas Crawford - Brodies LLP
Next generation lawyers
Shona Tennant - Brodies LLP
Tom Boulton-Jones - Brodies LLP
Corporate tax
Corporate tax - ranked: tier 1
Brodies LLP
The team at Brodies LLP provides 'very measured, constructive advice - nothing flash, just pragmatic and reliable'. Isobel D'Inverno and Alan Barr lead the team, which provides tax support on M&A and real estate transactions, advises on tax issues in the oil and gas sector and handles investment funds-related tax matters, among many other areas. D'Inverno is particularly sought after to advise on issues associated with Land and Buildings Transaction Tax (LBTT) and Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT). Heather Thompson, who is a recent hire from Turcan Connell, is experienced in advising family and owner-managed businesses on a broad cross-section of personal, corporate and real estate tax issues. Heather Gibson is 'a very intelligent and industrious person, with an eye for detail'. Nigel Watson is a share scheme and employee remuneration tax expert. Associate Bob Langridge is also recommended. A highlight for the team in 2017 involved advising Axis Capital Holdings Limited on the tax aspects of its £477m offer to acquire Novae Plc. Another matter involved assisting a joint venture between Moda Living and Apache Capital with tax issues related its acquisition from Grosvenor of a build to rent site at Springfield, Edinburgh.
Leading individuals
Isobel D'Inverno - Brodies LLP
Next generation lawyers
Heather Gibson - Brodies LLP
EU and competition
EU and competition - ranked: tier 1
Brodies LLP
Brodies LLP assists public and private sector clients with a wide ambit of public law, regulatory and competition law questions. In addition to handling transactional antitrust matters, Rod Lambert has a wealth of experience of cartel investigations, dawn raids and antitrust litigation. Charles Livingstone has expertise in antitrust compliance and enforcement, merger control and state aid, among other areas and also co-heads the firm's multidisciplinary Brexit advisory group with Christine O'Neill, which advises clients from a wide range of sectors on the implications of the UK's departure from the European Union, including the future UK-EU relationship. Roger Cotton leads the public procurement team and is also a state aid expert. Livingstone, O'Neill and others recently represented the Scottish Whisky Association, spiritsEUROPE and CEEV in a challenge to the Scottish government's Alcohol (Minimum Pricing) (Scotland) Act 2012 . In another highlight, Livingstone acted for Scottish Care in the CMA's UK-wide study of the care homes market.
Leading individuals
Christine O'Neill - Brodies LLP
Rod Lambert - Brodies LLP
Next generation lawyers
Charles Livingstone - Brodies LLP
Scotland: Crime, fraud and licensing
Crime: fraud
Crime: fraud - ranked: tier 1
Brodies LLP
Brodies LLP is noted for its 'strong multidisciplinary approach' to financial criminal cases and 'capability for dealing with complex, cross-border issues' for an array of public and corporate clients facing allegations of fraud, bribery and corruption. The group has particular expertise in the oil and gas sector, but also handles a significant workload on behalf of banking and financial service providers. The 'responsive, focused and trusted' +Paul Marshall leads the corporate crime and investigations team, and has a reputation for 'enlisting the support of key industry stakeholders'. Regulatory lawyer Rod Lambert , has extensive experience in cases concerning cartels and suspected infringements of the US Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) and the UK Bribery Act – in addition to strong international sanctions knowledge. Glasgow's Ramsay Hall is noted for financial crime compliance and investigations work.
Scotland: Dispute resolution
Commercial litigation
Commercial litigation - ranked: tier 1
Brodies LLP
Brodies LLP's team has vast experience in high-profile and business-critical litigation, with its workload spanning areas such as insurance, competition, IP/IT, shipping and pensions, among many other areas. Manus Quigg and Louise Shiels together have nearly 30 years of experience of construction disputes. Practice head Joyce Cullen has a 35-year track record in the commercial disputes arena, with a particular strength in banking and financial services litigation. Reflective of the high quality of the team, it includes a team of solicitor advocates across the offices in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Aberdeen (two of whom are standing junior counsel to the Scottish government). Corporate restructuring and insolvency experts Rachel Grant and consultant Colin McIntosh are acting for the liquidators of RFC 2012 Plc (in liquidation); the matter recently involved a UK Supreme Court appeal on employee benefit trusts used for the benefit of football players and executives. In 2017, Alan Calvert, Odell Milne and associate Adam McKinlay successfully represented a firm of solicitors and its indemnity insurers at the UK Supreme Court in a case arising from the drafting of notices to quit in agricultural tenancies. Laura McMillan made partner in November 2017. Kenneth MacDonald is a name to note in Aberdeen. Iain Rutherford, Stephen Goldie and Robert Buchan are also recommended. Tony Jones QC joined from BTO Solicitors LLP.
Leading individuals
Joyce Cullen - Brodies LLP
Tony Jones QC - Brodies LLP
Next generation lawyers
Iain Rutherford - Brodies LLP
Debt recovery
Debt recovery - ranked: tier 1
Brodies LLP
Brodies LLP delivers 'a very high level of service' on both volume and bespoke debt and asset recovery mandates. The team acts for a broad cross-section of clients, including banks, utility companies, debt purchasers and insolvency practitioners. It also assists English law firms requiring Scottish debt litigation support. Practice head Stephen Goldie, who has circa 20 years of experience, has a particular specialism in property-related debts, such as arrears of rent, service and common charges. Goldie and others are particularly active in handling high-value property repossession work for private investment firms that purchased distressed secured property portfolios from banks. Solicitor advocate Iain Rutherford works with Goldie to manage the volume debt recovery offering, and also handles his own caseload of high-value and high-profile matters. Also active in complex, large-value cases is solicitor advocate Laura McMillan. Philip Hall (who focuses on corporate and plant hire debt recovery) and associate Monica Connolly are other notable figures. The practice was strengthened by the arrival in April 2018 of managing associate Marianne Griffin from Dentons . Santander Consumer Finance, Fleximize Limited and Moneybarn are among the firm's clients. Ricky Cannon departed for DWF, while Tony Jones QC joined from BTO Solicitors LLP.
Next generation lawyers
Iain Rutherford - Brodies LLP
Monica Connolly - Brodies LLP
Scotland: Finance
Banking and finance
Banking and finance - ranked: tier 1
Brodies LLP
Brodies LLP's banking team has 'good links with the key Scottish institutions' and 'delivers joined-up advice by working with other practices'. Michael Stoneham, who is the head of energy and infrastructure finance, 'balances technical skills, attention to detail, commerciality and team management to deliver excellent results in a short time frame'. Neal Richardson in Aberdeen leads the marine finance team. Chris Dun, who joined from Maclay Murray & Spens LLP in 2017 with four other team members (prior to its merger with Dentons), has strengthened the firm's offering in real estate finance and housing finance. A growth area of the firm's practice has been in funds finance; in a recent highlight, Peter Kelly and associate Jack Moir advised Regional REIT Limited on the amendment and restatement of circa £70m of existing facility agreements with Santander to finance the expansion of the client's commercial property portfolio. Team head Bruce Stephen has more than 20 years of banking and finance experience, with expertise in areas such as asset-based lending and receivables financing, among various others. Alan Knowles, Marion MacInnes, and managing associates Billy Kay and Fiona Cameron, are also recommended.
Leading individuals
Bruce Stephen - Brodies LLP
Chris Dun - Brodies LLP
Michael Stoneham - Brodies LLP
Next generation lawyers
Neal Richardson - Brodies LLP
Insolvency and corporate recovery
Insolvency and corporate recovery - ranked: tier 2
Brodies LLP
Brodies LLP is 'one of the most capable firms in the Scottish insolvency field', and its team has 'broad experience and deep knowledge'. Practice head Rachel Grant 'identifies the relevant issues quickly'. Peter Kelly, managing associate Shirley Li-Ting (who joined from Gilson Gray in 2017, and is dual-qualified in English and Scottish law) and consultant Colin McIntosh are among other notable individuals. The group provides the full spectrum of advice on contentious and non-contentious matters pertaining to corporate restructurings and insolvencies, as well as personal insolvencies. Grant, McIntosh and associate Lucy McCann are acting for the liquidators of RFC 2012 Plc in a high-profile liquidation. In another matter a cross-practice team recently assisted Burntisland Fabrications Limited with negotiating a rescue package with the Scottish government to avoid a formal insolvency. Associate Louise Laing has experience of advising banks and other lenders on security enhancement and enforcement. Associate Amy McVey assists banks and borrowers with financial restructurings, and also advises insolvency practitioners on issues arising from formal insolvency appointments (corporate and personal).
Leading individuals
Rachel Grant - Brodies LLP
Next generation lawyers
Laura Borland - Brodies LLP
Investment funds
Investment funds - ranked: tier 2
Brodies LLP
In addition to forming and launching funds, Brodies LLP provides day to day operational and regulatory advice (among other matters) to its UK and international fund manager clients. Senior solicitor Barbara Jamieson, who joined from Martin Currie Investment Management in January 2018, has experience of regulatory projects involving AIFMD, UCITS V and MiFID II, among others. Andrew Akintewe leads the team, which also has a significant investor-side practice, where the work includes assisting clients with negotiating the terms of fund investments and portfolio management. The group's areas of expertise span multiple fund structures, including private equity buyout funds, real estate funds, debt funds and listed funds. Paul McLaughlin is knowledgeable about the uses of LLPs, general partnerships and Scottish limited partnerships. As a full-service firm, its funds team is well-supported by practitioners in areas such as tax and corporate, enabling it to cover all manner of issues. Karen Fountain is leading a cross-practice team, which is acting for midmarket private equity fund manager Promethean Investments LLP in the circa £150m capital raising of its third limited partnership fund, as well as the structure and operations of the management group. In 2017, Fountain and others advised The Scott Trust and Guardian Media Group Plc (GMG) on GMG's launch of a £42m venture capital fund, GMG Ventures. Another recent highlight for the team involved assisting Blackstone with establishing a joint venture with a UK residential property investment company.
Next generation lawyers
Andrew Akintewe - Brodies LLP
Scotland: Human resources
Employment - ranked: tier 1
Brodies LLP
Brodies LLP handles the spectrum of employment work for major corporates with operations in Scotland, including litigation, business support and transactional mandates. Led by Tony Hadden, the team is noted for its 'good experience, professional approach, knowledge and attention to detail'. Hadden is an employment litigator with substantial tribunal experience, but also has significant transactional experience; his recent highlights include advising Axis Capital on all HR issues relating to its purchase of Novae Group. Joan Cradden has particular expertise in financial services employment matters and in cases with a cross-border element. Cradden advised Skyes Global Services on the development of its call centre business, which allows agents to work exclusively at home. Lynne Marr led the firm's support of long-term client, Prudential, in connection with its merger with M & G. Marr advises a range of public and third sector bodies, including charities and higher education institutions.
Leading individuals
Joan Cradden - Brodies LLP
Health and safety
Health and safety - ranked: tier 2
Brodies LLP
Brodies LLP's 'excellent' team has 'a clear understanding of the commercial backdrop to which business operates in', advising insured corporates and insurance companies. Practice head, Elena Fry, is 'an excellent lawyer who you would want on your side in times of crisis', and represented a European hotel operator in meetings with the regulator and advised the client on potential enforcement proceedings, following separate food and chemical safety incidents, both resulting in formal cautions rather than prosecution. The 'vastly experienced and methodical' Duncan McLean advised Transocean on potential liabilities arising from a rig which ran aground after a storm in 2016. Laura McMillan represented Liberty Mutual and the Jim Clark Memorial Motor Club in connection with a fatal accident inquiry into separate incidents at a rally that led to several injuries and fatalities – finding the organisers not directly liable and determining the rally could run again.
Pensions - ranked: tier 2
Brodies LLP
Brodies LLP acts for major employers, as well as public and private sector pension trustees, on the full range of pension issues, including governance, buy-ins, defined benefit schemes and transactions. The 'efficient and enormously helpful' practice head, Juliet Bayne, provides 'extremely good support to trustee boards', which clients note is especially useful in decision-making and protecting the trustee position in negotiations. The 'high-calibre' senior solicitors, Jordan Halliday and Jen Crawford, are praised for their expertise, as well as 'an ability to understand the wider client agenda'. Highlights included representing the trustees of the John Menzies defined benefit pension fund in negotiation with John Menzies, on ways to control future pension costs and the termination of future benefit accrual. The team also advised the trustees of the Howden Group pension plan in relation to the equalisation of retirement ages for male and female members.
Scotland: Insurance
Medical negligence: defender
Medical negligence: defender - ranked: tier 1
Brodies LLP
Brodies LLP acts in a wide range of claims, including ophthalmology, deaths in custody, aesthetic surgery and medical device implantation. Clients include medical institutions, equipment manufacturers and individual medical professionals. Elena Fry co-leads the practice alongside Duncan Mawby, who joined from BTO Solicitors LLP in September 2017. The firm is defending a number of class actions for suppliers of pelvic mesh and metal on metal hip implants. It also represents several insurers in cases involving insured practitioners facing complex medical negligence claims and fatal accident inquiries.
Personal injury: defender
Personal injury: defender - ranked: tier 2
Brodies LLP
Brodies LLP has 'one of the best teams on the local market', which is led by Elena Fry, who is 'extremely sharp, pragmatic and has a commanding presence'. The group represents self-insured businesses and public bodies in the range of personal injury claims and is on the panel for a number of major insurers operating in Scotland. The team has a strong anti-fraud offering, and regularly acts for insurers in defending against fraudulent claims. Highlights included successfully defending a Scottish Housing Association against a class action brought by tenants and former tenants in relation to a variety of neurological and psychological symptoms allegedly arising from solvent contamination from the foundations of their properties; a claim that was subsequently defended at appeal. The 'vastly experienced' Duncan McLean is 'methodical and instils confidence in his ability to deal with whatever he is given', and has a particular focus on maritime claims. Malcolm Mackay is another key practitioner; Duncan Mawby joined from BTO Solicitors LLP and Peter Demick left the team for Kennedys in September 2017, whilst Craig Watt joined the practice in March 2018 from CMS.
Professional negligence
Professional negligence - ranked: tier 1
Brodies LLP
With a 'knowledgeable, pragmatic and responsive team', Brodies LLP is the 'leading firm in the professional indemnity arena in Scotland'. It represents both pursuers and defenders in claims involving the range of professional disciplines, including major professional services companies in the real estate, construction, financial, employment and cyber-risk sectors, in addition to major insurer panel appointments. The team is jointly led by Alisdair Matheson and the 'leading' Alan Calvert, who is particularly noted for his experience in representing solicitors and accountants. Calvert represented a law firm, and its professional indemnity insurance in an £8m claim arising from the drafting of notices to quit agricultural tenancies, which were held to be invalid by the Land Court; a case that was dismissed based on a time bar following a preliminary proof. Tony Jones QC joined from BTO Solicitors LLP in June 2018.
Leading individuals
Alan Calvert - Brodies LLP
Scotland: Private client
Agriculture and estates
Agriculture and estates - ranked: tier 1
Brodies LLP
Brodies LLP's 'first-class' practice advises rural landed estates, farming and rural businesses, lenders, funders, developers and public sector organisations across Scotland on all corporate, commercial and litigation matters. Odell Milne provides 'an exceptional strategic overview', and specialises in compulsory purchase orders (CPOs) and utility work. 'Efficient, intelligent and good under pressure', Kirsty Macpherson focuses on rural renewable energy matters. Alex Buchan has 'a commercial outlook' and particular sector knowledge in commercial rural estates. Noted for her 'great attention to detail in transactions', Kate McLeish advises clients on a range of agricultural holdings. The group advised the GFG Alliance on the $330m acquisition of eight Estates, which involved an extensive review of agricultural and renewables leases, grazing and residential tenancies. In another highlight, it assisted the Litchfield Family with the sale of the whole issued share capital of Tulchan Sporting Estates to a Russian businessman, in a transaction that was affected by land ownership reform and a high level of public scrutiny. Clive Philips leads the practice.
Leading individuals
Odell Milne - Brodies LLP
Charities and not-for-profit
Charities and not-for-profit - ranked: tier 1
Brodies LLP
Brodies LLP provides 'excellent and practical advice' to a mixture of individual philanthropy clients, family foundations, in addition to large corporate and institutional charities. Drawing on its 'strong understanding of the regulatory sector', the group is well versed in the use of corporate vehicles to establish charitable organisations, including community benefit societies, community interest companies and Scottish charitable incorporate organisations (SCIOs). The group continues to advise the OSCR on a range of matters, including all aspects of the appointment of a judicial factor to Scotia Aid Sierra Leone (a charity accused of fraud and financial mismanagement). It also assisted JustRight Scotland with the establishment of a new human rights law and advocacy centre in Glasgow. The practice is co-led by Brenda Scott, whose focuses are corporate governance, constitution reform and charity trustee duties, and the 'dynamic and highly specialist' Alan Eccles, who is noted for possessing 'an encyclopaedic knowledge of charity law across all the UK jurisdictions'. 'Safe pair of hands' Helen Kidd and charitable trust expert Eric Galbraith are also recommended.
Leading individuals
Alan Eccles - Brodies LLP
Contentious trusts and probate
Contentious trusts and probate - ranked: tier 1
Brodies LLP
Brodies LLP's 'outstanding team' is 'a market leader' that demonstrates 'cutting-edge technical knowledge'. The team handles a broad spectrum of work, including applications to the Court of Session, proving the tenor of lost wills, assisting adults with incapacity applications, negligence opinions and disputes over will validity and the winding up of estates. The team recently represented the wife of a deceased high-net-worth individual, who left an informal will, in a dispute over the estate. 'Exceptional' Alan Barr leads the practice and brings a 'sympathetic approach' to family trustees, noted for an ability to 'stand firm on particularly difficult issues'. Barr is a thought leader in wills, tax planning and trusts, and has extensive experience in related contentious matters. The 'professional' Mark Stewart and associate Angela McCulloch are recommended for their client relationship building skills. Susanne Batchelor is another key practitioner.
Leading individuals
Alan Barr - Brodies LLP
Family - ranked: tier 2
Brodies LLP
The 'absolutely top-end team' at Brodies LLP is noted for its family law work, including high-value and high-profile divorce cases, as well as multi-jurisdictional aspects and 'forum shopping' cases. The group also cases involving international child abduction and has expertise in European regulations pertaining to maintenance. Lisa Girdwood is 'hugely experienced and able' and has 'a caring manner with clients'. Also recommended are 'master tactician' Scott Cochrane, Richard B Smith, who focuses on divorce cases involving business owners has 'a pleasant and pragmatic approach', and Shaun George, who heads the practice.
Leading individuals
Shaun George - Brodies LLP
Personal tax, trusts and executries
Personal tax, trusts and executries - ranked: tier 1
Brodies LLP
Brodies LLP's 'well-resourced and experienced' team is 'at the top of its game', and adept at handling tax and estate planning matters for wealthy individuals and families and smaller value clients alike. It also has extensive expertise in the establishment of Family Investment Companies (FICs) and Family Limited Partnerships (FLPs); work that 'extremely knowledgeable' Susanne Batchelor is noted for, alongside her extensive cross-border asset practice. Mark Stewart leads the personal and family department while Alan Barr heads the personal tax planning group, which includes a number of chartered accountants. Other key practitioners include Norman Kennedy, who specialises in succession planning, asset protection, inheritance tax mitigation, trusts and incapacity planning; Alan Eccles, a 'trusted adviser' who is known for advising individuals, families, charities and family business on trust matters; and associate Leigh Gould.
Leading individuals
Mark Stewart - Brodies LLP
Scotland: Projects, energy and natural resources
Energy (excluding oil and gas)
Energy (excluding oil and gas) - ranked: tier 2
Brodies LLP
Brodies LLP has a strong market profile in the Scottish renewable energy sector, and it particularly stands out in areas such as onshore wind, hydro, heat and bioenergy. The team, which is jointly led by Keith Patterson and Kirsty Macpherson, is frequently sought-after by clients in the most high-profile matters in the market. Patterson, Roger Cotton and Neil Collar are acting for Grangemouth Renewable Energy Limited in the development of a large biomass combined heat and power (CHP) project and district heating network; this is the largest CHP project, and the first heat-led project, to win a contract for difference (CfD) in Scotland. In 2017, Patterson, Sarah-Jane McArthur, Phil Hunter, associate Alison Polson and others advised three project companies owned by Banks Renewables on the £210m development and financing of a 151MW CfD wind farm portfolio; this matter represented the first CfD onshore wind farm financing. McArthur, construction director Mark Finlay and Michael Stoneham (who is the head of energy and infrastructure finance) are acting for MeyGen in the development of a landmark, first-of-its-kind tidal stream energy project in the Pentland Firth. Alix Bearhop focuses on the real estate aspects of renewable energy projects, while Derek Stroud has more than 15 years of experience of corporate transactions connected with the industry. Associate Claire Reid assists developers and landowners with wind, hydro and anaerobic digestion projects.
Leading individuals
Keith Patterson - Brodies LLP
Next generation lawyers
Claire Reid - Brodies LLP
Oil and gas
Oil and gas - ranked: tier 1
Brodies LLP
Brodies LLP's 12-strong specialist group is 'excellent in every way' for advice on the gamut of issues impacting businesses active in the upstream and supply chain ends of the oil and gas industry. Clients benefit from the notable in-house experience of key members of the team; practice head Clare Munro, Sonia Love (who has specialist knowledge of FPSO field developments), and managing associates Suzanne Hopkinson and Rhona McFarlane, have all spent significant periods of their careers working at major exploration and production companies. Gregory May, who is an expert on drilling and the other service sectors of the oil and gas industry, also has substantial in-house experience. In addition, Munro, May and Love each have more than 20 years of experience providing legal advice to the sector. May has increasingly been active recently in the advice to operators on the terms and conditions of invitations to tender in relation to service sector contracts for field developments. In 2017, Munro, McFarlane and others acted for INEOS FPS Limited in its high-profile $250m acquisition of the Forties Pipeline System from BP, and for INEOS Upstream (Shale) in its acquisition of Engie E&P UK Limited's entire onshore upstream licence portfolio. ConocoPhillips, Maersk Oil, Awilco Drilling and Shelf Drilling are among other key clients.
Leading individuals
Clare Munro - Brodies LLP
Sonia Love - Brodies LLP
Projects - ranked: tier 3
Brodies LLP
Brodies LLP's practice is growing significantly under the joint leadership of Drysdale Graham , who joined from Pinsent Masons LLP in May 2017, and energy and infrastructure finance head Michael Stoneham. Graham's arrival has led to the firm undertaking more work for project sponsors and their funders in projects in the UK and Ireland. It has also led to new instructions from the Scottish market; he acted for bidders in eight out of ten projects in the Scottish government's recent £2.5bn NPD programme, with his clients winning three of those projects. Graham also advised Aberdeen Harbour Board on the procurement of the new South Harbour at Nigg Bay. Stoneham has worked on UK PFI/PPP and NPD projects since 1995; his key clients include Nord LB, Atlantis Resources and M&G Investment Management. Sarah-Jane McArthur, Roger Cotton and others assisted Hub East Central Limited (on behalf of Fife Council) with the delivery contracts for the Glenrothes town centre district heating network, a £20m collaborative project with RWE. McArthur also acted for Indaver as the proposed operating sub-contractor for one of the bidding consortia for the Aberdeen Ness Energy from Waste project. The firm also undertakes projects in sectors such as transport, education, accommodation, housing and healthcare. Keith Patterson, Jackie McGuire, Alistair Mclean , and managing associates Billy Kay, Ali Rimell, and Juliet Haldane, are also recommended.
Leading individuals
Drysdale Graham - Brodies LLP
Scotland: Public sector
Education - ranked: tier 1
Brodies LLP
Brodies LLP fields a team of 'effective communicators' which acts for an extensive client roster of further education (FE) and higher education (HE) sector clients, local authority education provers, and government agencies such as the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA). The group advises on governance matters (including legislation, new governance arrangements and sensitive reputational issues), sector-specific employment issues, overseas work, immigration, real estate strategy and joint ventures. The practice is co-led by corporate and commercial specialist, Brenda Scott (who has 'a good eye for detail'); government, regulation and competition lawyer Christine O'Neill (who 'provides spot-on advice'); and Lynne Marr, who focuses on education sector-specific employment issues. The group is on the University of Edinburgh's panel and advises it on a number of commercial initiatives, including an ongoing joint venture arrangement with Milltrust Agricultural Investment, to commercialise IP from the Roslin Institute and the Rosalind Franklin Institute. Jackie McGuire advised Falkirk Council on a number of challenges to decisions to refuse placing requests for children with additional support needs. Associate Niall McLean is also recommended for his 'particularly strong understanding of the finer points of procedure' in relation to education law.
Health - ranked: tier 1
Brodies LLP
Brodies LLP has a multidisciplinary practice which handles the full spectrum of contentious and non-contentious health work, with a particularly strength in regulatory mandates in relation to health and social care. The group continues to support the Professional Standards Agency (PSA) in a number of matters, including an appeal to the Inner House of the Court of Session against a lenient sanction imposed on a dentist who had sexually harassed members of his staff. The firm also has expertise in healthcare-related financing projects; in a recent matter, Peter Kelly advised Meallmore and Hilton Rehabilitation on financing provided by Santander for the £27.9m purchase and refurbishment of the Mandaville Care Home in Inverness. 'Friendly, approachable and knowledgeable' associate Shona Tennant assists the University of St Andrews with various medical research matters, most recently including a Research Services Agreement with the University of Dundee, and in connection with a collaboration agreement between several UK Universities, The National Cancer Research Institute and Breast Cancer Care for the development of a programme to support individuals undergoing breast cancer treatment. IP specialist Gill Grassie has vast experience advising pharmaceutical companies on contractual and regulatory matters. Local authority healthcare provision expert Jackie McGuire leads the practice.
Local government
Local government - ranked: tier 1
Brodies LLP
Brodies LLP's 'excellent' practice acts for major Scottish councils, including Glasgow, Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Stirling, on the full spectrum of project work, including governance, electoral law, judicial reviews, private legislation, local government finance. It also acts for Arms-Length External Organisations (ALEOs) on TUPE matters. Practice head Jackie McGuire and consultant Jane McMonagle are advising Glasgow City Council in connection with all aspects of its refurbishment and redevelopment of the Burrell Collection, including procurement, pre-construction agreements and the drafting of specific contractual clauses to allow for community benefits and partnering provisions. Drawing on her expertise in public, planning and environmental law, McGuire is also advising Perth and Kinross Council on a major road and bridge infrastructure project. The group is Argyll and Bute Council's principal external legal adviser, and continue to provide the client with employment, pensions, property and public law support regarding the externalisation of its leisure services. Firm chair Christine O'Neill is recommended for expertise in contractual and procurement issues, while Sarah-Jane McArthur has particular experience in supporting local authorities with their low-carbon emissions projects.
Leading individuals
Jackie McGuire - Brodies LLP
Parliamentary and public affairs
Parliamentary and public affairs - ranked: tier 1
Brodies LLP
'A market leader', Brodies LLP handles the full range of parliamentary and public affairs issues, including in relation to legislation, parliamentary advice, judicial review, public inquiries, local government and public procurement. 'Extremely skilful' firm chairman Christine O'Neill exercises 'acute political sensitivity' and is representing the Scottish government as sole counsel before the Scottish Child Abuse Inquiry. She was also instructed by the Scottish parliament's Finance and Constitution Committee to review the Westminster parliament's European Union Withdrawal Bill and its impact on the powers of the Scottish parliament. Jackie McGuire leads the government, regulatory and competition division and is advising Lerwick Port Authority on a harbour revision order (HRO) that introduces a number of changes to the constitution of the authority, reflecting Scottish government good practice. Charles Livingstone specialises in constitutional issues and represented the Scotch Whiskey Association, alongside other alcohol industry bodies, in a challenge to the Scottish government's Alcohol (Minimum Pricing) (Scotland) Act 2012 at the Supreme Court.
Leading individuals
Christine O'Neill - Brodies LLP
Scotland: Real estate
Commercial property: Edinburgh and Glasgow
Commercial property: Edinburgh and Glasgow - ranked: tier 1
Brodies LLP
Commercial property: leisure and hospitality - ranked: tier 1
Brodies LLP
Commercial property: retail - ranked: tier 1
Brodies LLP
Noted for its 'strength in depth', Brodies LLP fields a team of 'industry-leading professionals, who are absolutely dedicated to their job and their clients'. It operates at the very top end of the investment and development market across a number of sectors, such as leisure, retail, offices and student accommodation. It also excels in commercial lettings, real estate finance and tax. Associate Elaine Petterson has extensive experience of the acquisition, disposal and management of multiple large-scale real estate assets. Richard Whyte and Elizabeth Ward are 'both technically superb, commercially astute and very easy to work with'. Johane Murray is 'able to see the full picture' and has 'a huge amount of personal charm and charisma'. Nick Scott, senior solicitor David Bales and others recently acted for Abu Dhabi Investment Authority in the £71m sale of Saltire Court in Edinburgh to the private office of the Al Rasheed family. Another highlight saw Scott and associate Clare Dewar advise Swiss fund manager AFIAA on the circa £28m sale of Quartmermile Two in Edinburgh to UBS. James Roscoe focuses on property investment and property finance, and acts for clients such as Blackstone, Citigroup and TPG Capital. Chris McDaid is assisting Brookfield with growing its student accommodation sector portfolio. Helen Abrams, Richard Smith, Michael Stephen and Colin Morrison (who heads up the retail sector, and hotels and leisure practices) are also recommended.
Leading individuals
James Roscoe - Brodies LLP
Nick Scott - Brodies LLP
Commercial property: elsewhere in Scotland
Commercial property: elsewhere in Scotland - ranked: tier 1
Brodies LLP
Brodies LLP's team is 'very knowledgeable, confident, professional and efficient', according to its clients. The firm acts for some of the most active market participants in office lettings, commercial and residential developments, housebuilding and property finance matters, among many other areas. In addition, its position as a market-leader in the north east of Scotland is underscored by its roles in high-profile and high-value matters. In 2017, Tracey Menzies advised Chrysaor Limited on its lease from M&G of 48,000 feet of space at The Capitol on Union Street in Aberdeen. The firm also acted for both Drum Property Group (as the seller) and LCN Capital Partners (as the buyer) in the sale and purchase of the Lloyds Register Building at Prime Four in Aberdeen; this was the largest investment deal in Aberdeen. Menzies and Nick Scott acted for LCN in this deal, while Colin MacLaren acted for Drum. Aberdeen City Council, Pramerica and Brookfield Student Real Estate are among other key clients. Clive Phillips, who leads the rural property team, is experienced in advising landed estates and farming clients on a range of commercial property matters, such as rural acquisitions and sales, and wind farm options and leases. Associate Jenna McCosh is another name to note.
Construction - ranked: tier 1
Brodies LLP
Brodies LLP is viewed as the firm of choice by many of the UK's largest developers, contractors, investors and insurance companies. Alistair McLean, who heads up the non-contentious practice, has 30 years of construction experience and is qualified to practise in Scotland, England and Wales, and Hong Kong. McLean and others handle some of the largest and first to the market construction projects in Scotland. McLean and senior solicitor Rachael Brown are acting for Inhabit in the Candleriggs Quarter project in Glasgow and Broadford Works project in Aberdeen; these are among the first buy to rent projects in Scotland. McLean is also working with senior solicitor Lesley Mackenzie to advise Robertson Construction Group as the main contractor on the construction of the Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre. Transactional lawyer Jane McMonagle, who recently made partner, 'explains concepts easily and shows available options in a simple and clear style'. Mark Finlay and managing associate Juliet Haldane also have non-contentious construction expertise. The firm also has 'the go-to lawyers for construction disputes', who are praised for their 'thorough knowledge and understanding of legal and commercial issues involved'. David Arnott and associate Christopher Duff are representing Muir Construction Limited in Court of Session proceedings against Kapital Residential Limited; this case is one of the first in the UK to concern the requirements of a valid Pay Less Notice. Manus Quigg, who leads the contentious practice, is 'a brilliant tactician and thoroughly reliable - he knows every trick in the book'. Louise Shiels, managing associate Keith Kilburn, and associates Claire Rice and Sara Lannigan are also experienced in construction disputes. In recent developments, Drysdale Graham was hired from Pinsent Masons LLP, while associate Laura McCorquodale joined from Harper Macleod LLP.
Leading individuals
Alistair McLean - Brodies LLP
David Arnott - Brodies LLP
Manus Quigg - Brodies LLP
Environment - ranked: tier 1
Brodies LLP
Brodies LLP's environmental law offering adds an important dimension to the firm's advice on corporate and real estate transactions, and energy and infrastructure projects, among other matters. In addition to providing transactional and project support, members of its team provide standalone advice on the full range of environmental law issues. Philip Hunter, who heads up the practice (and is also a real estate partner), is leading a team, which is advising Clyde Gateway Developments Limited on the Shawfield Phase Two redevelopment project as part of the redevelopment of the Clyde Gateway area; the project covers an area of land where large swathes have a legacy of environmental contamination, owing to previous use as a chemical works. Duncan MacLean and Hunter advised Lerwick Port Authority (LPA) on environmental and consenting issues associated with the arrival of the semi-submersible Buchan Alpha at LPA's newly-extended deep-water quay at Dales Voe decommissioning facility for decommissioning. Sarah-Jane McArthur and others are acting for Indaver NV as the proposed operating subcontractor for one of the bidding consortia of a waste management project in the north east of Scotland. Paul Marshall assists clients with regulatory compliance, and on the contentious side, he also handles environmental prosecutions and enforcement actions. Associate Niall McLean, who is a solicitor advocate with extended rights of audience at the Court of Session, is active in environmental litigation. Neil Collar, who heads up the planning practice, is another name to note. Associate Ewen Cairns recently joined from the Higher Education Funding Council for England.
Planning - ranked: tier 1
Brodies LLP
Brodies LLP is 'one of the leading planning law firms in Scotland', and is 'particularly well regarded among planning authorities' for whom 'its presence on a mandate inspires confidence'. Practice head Neil Collar, associate Alison Polson and senior solicitor Victoria Lane 'have an excellent awareness of planning matters' and they all deliver 'clear and consistent advice'. Karen Hamilton, associate Lee Murphy and managing associate Niall McLean are also highly recommended. The group provides a full service on the contentious and non-contentious issues arising at every stage of the planning process, ranging from early-stage strategic advice to planning inquiry advocacy and Court of Session appeals. A particular area of strength is in drafting section 75 planning obligations, including provisions on continuing liability, modification and discharge, and decommissioning bonds for minerals and wind farm developments. Collar and Lane are preparing the terms of a section 75 obligation on behalf of Park of Keir Partnership in relation to the 'Murray Legacy' project in Dunblane. Collar and Lane are also assisting Moda Living and Apache Capital Partners with the planning aspects of a proposed Build to Rent scheme at Springside in Edinburgh. Grangemouth Renewable Energy Limited, Boralex and Candleriggs Limited are other notable clients.
Leading individuals
Neil Collar - Brodies LLP
Property litigation
Property litigation - ranked: tier 1
Brodies LLP
Brodies LLP's 'incredibly professional' team has a tremendous record of success in dilapidations cases, complex disputes concerning contractual interpretations, and commercial landlord and tenant matters. Stephen Goldie and solicitor Chloe Postlethwaite are advising a private equity fund on various contentious issues associated with a retail park and large shopping centre, such as tenant insolvency, recovery of arrears, keep open actions and common parts issues. The firm has developed a first-rate reputation in disputes over business rates. Matthew Farrell and Postlethwaite recently acted for a number of non-domestic ratepayers (including accountants, oil companies and high street retailers) located in Aberdeen on challenging their business rates before the Valuation Appeal Committee. TIAA Henderson Real Estate, Moorfield and Pramerica are among other clients. Ken MacDonald, who is dual-qualified in English and Scottish law, is experienced in resolving disputes through methods such as litigation, mediation, arbitration and expert determination. Tony Jones QC joined from BTO Solicitors LLP.
Leading individuals
Stephen Goldie - Brodies LLP
Next generation lawyers
Matthew Farrell - Brodies LLP
Scotland: TMT (technology, media and telecoms)
IT and telecoms
IT and telecoms - ranked: tier 2
Brodies LLP
Brodies LLP has 'a strong team of associates who display commendable independence' and 'excellent knowledge of the telecoms sector and general market practice'. The practice is co-led by the 'approachable and friendly' Grant Campbell and 'insightful' Martin Sloan, who specialise in data protection and outsourcing, respectively. The firm also stands out for its IT litigation practice, with particular experience in English law matters as well as mediation. The group advised Sainsbury's Bank on the strategic transformation of its insurance business, which centred on a new outsourced technology platform from CDL. It also advised Abellio Scotrail on a managed service arrangement with Cubic Transportation Systems for the provision of enterprise integration and an account-based ticketing service. In another highlight, the group acted for Sykes Enterprises on GDPR compliance matters.
Intellectual property
Intellectual property - ranked: tier 1
Brodies LLP
Brodies LLP's team houses 'among the best and most experienced contentious IP practitioners', in addition to having a thriving non-contentious practice. Its work covers copyright, trade mark and patent law in a variety of sectors, such as luxury brands, oil and gas, renewables, life sciences and financial services. The 'knowledgeable and personable' Gill Grassie leads the IP dispute resolution practice, and has a strong track record representing clients in patent infringement and validity cases as well as brand and trade mark protection cases. 'Hardworking and very able' litigator Robert Buchan is 'commercially minded and a joy to work with'; he has particular experience in cross-border patent and copyright infringement, entitlement and validity cases, often involving co-ordinating actions in national courts and IP offices. He is defending a major engineering company against a court action including allegations of copyright and database right infringements and the theft of confidential information. Non-contentious IP head Grant Campbell handles a wide spectrum of transactional and advisory work. Associate Shona Tennant is recommended for providing 'good support' as well as 'a clear knowledge of IP law'. Clients include the University of Edinburgh, Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, Performing Rights Society for Music and the University of Edinburgh.
Leading individuals
Gill Grassie - Brodies LLP
Media and entertainment
Media and entertainment - ranked: tier 2
Brodies LLP
Brodies LLP acts for clients across the media and entertainment sphere on the full spectrum of legal services, including defamation, pre-publication and –broadcast advice, reputation management, privacy issues, FOI requests, and data protection. Practice head and regulatory expert, Christine O'Neill provides holiday and out-of-hours advice to BBC Scotland journalists and current affairs staff. Martin Sloan assisted the Chinese mobile gaming company, Skymoons Interactive, in establishing a UK subsidiary in Edinburgh and continues to advise the client on IP issues, contractual matters, employment and immigration law. Sports expert and managing associate Andy Nolan assisted 77 Management with legal aspects of the Andy Murray Live tennis event, including sponsorship agreements, a venue agreement with SSE Hydro, a broadcasting agreement with Eurosport, a player agreement with Mansour Bahrami and various service agreements. Alan Eccles is noted for his 'excellent knowledge' of charity and media law. Tony Jones QC joined the team from BTO Solicitors LLP in June 2018.
Further information on Brodies LLP
Please choose from this list to view details of what we say about Brodies LLP in other jurisdictions.
Offices in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen AB10, Aberdeen AB10, Dingwall IV15, and Dingwall IV15
- Corporate and commercial : Corporate and commercial: Edinburgh and Glasgow
- Corporate and commercial : Corporate and commercial: elsewhere in Scotland
- Corporate and commercial : Corporate tax
- Corporate and commercial : EU and competition
- Crime, fraud and licensing : Crime: fraud
- Dispute resolution : Commercial litigation
- Dispute resolution : Debt recovery
- Finance : Banking and finance
- Finance : Insolvency and corporate recovery
- Finance : Investment funds
- Human resources : Employment
- Human resources : Health and safety
- Human resources : Pensions
- Insurance : Medical negligence: defender
- Insurance : Personal injury: defender
- Insurance : Professional negligence
- Private client : Agriculture and estates
- Private client : Charities and not-for-profit
- Private client : Contentious trusts and probate
- Private client : Family
- Private client : Personal tax, trusts and executries
- Projects, energy and natural resources : Energy (excluding oil and gas)
- Projects, energy and natural resources : Oil and gas
- Projects, energy and natural resources : Projects
- Public sector : Education
- Public sector : Health
- Public sector : Local government
- Public sector : Parliamentary and public affairs
- Real estate : Commercial property: Edinburgh and Glasgow
- Real estate : Commercial property: elsewhere in Scotland
- Real estate : Construction
- Real estate : Environment
- Real estate : Planning
- Real estate : Property litigation
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) : Intellectual property
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) : IT and telecoms
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) : Media and entertainment
- Transport


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A lot of people are trying to get it perfect before they start,.. while I'm out here failing daily.
You know the advantage of that:
Every time I fail I take a step forward. Every time I "fail" I smash the emotional and mental barriers that were holding me back, and more of the path opens to me.
Every time I "fail" in my eyes, and judge the shit out of myself, I succeed in someone else's and they are grateful for what I shared.
Every time I "Step Out", I am judged and criticised, but I have grown beyond what limits I could even imagine and show up a new person next time I step up.
Every time I fail I smash the veil of illusion which I previously thought was me and what I'm capable of, and grow into what is possible.
I die and am reborn, every time I fail.
Knowing that who I show up as tomorrow, is a new person, a new being, whom I do not yet know, UNTIL I STEP UP AGAIN.
I am ALWAYS getting to know myself, and
Every time I fail, I succeed.
For another layer is wiped clean.
(What beliefs do you hold about failure?)
And if you want to smash your fears about failure, come along to my event
Live Your Edge, Speak Your Truth in Melbourne on the 10th September.


text: This is a new class offering at the tea shop and recommended for those who have some kombucha brewing experience. Ideally, this class attendee is comfortable with the primary fermentation step and has brewed successful batches. In our advanced class, we will focus on taking your kombucha to the next level in terms of flavoring and carbonation. We will talk about how to effectively use ingredients like fruits, vegetables, juices, herbs, and tea itself to flavor your kombucha. We will share our insights on how to create your own flavor recipes and also provide some of our own Snooty Fox Kombucha recipes for you to try at home. This will be especially fun during summer and into fall, when local produce becomes more easily available. You grew some lavender in a pot on your back porch? Let's talk about how to use it in your next batch of booch!


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So that leaves us with the floor plan. Considering how squishy squashed the bottom floor is, you'd think I'd have put more effort into the upper floors. For my purposes though, this wasn't necessary. I had whole empty rooms upstairs I could have made use of = more content = more lag. Although, I probably should've added a usable staff toilet somewhere on the lot But oh well. 😛 (Excuses! You just ran out of ideas, didn't you??)
Hope you enjoyed the lengthy tour! There weren't any elevators either, sorry, so you'll have to climb back down those 5 flights of stairs (we won't even talk about them. I spent a good 2 hours trying to do a 3×3 or 4×4 circular stair case going up 5 levels, but it was just never going to work… plus, it wouldn't have had the landings on floors 2 and 3 to access the adjacent rooms. Apparently, I can be very, very picky). I would looovee some comments/feedback! This lot took forever and for me, it was quite an achievement.


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Greg Spinney
Waterloo, Ontario
specializing in experimental and electro-acoustic forms of musical expression...spoken word, audio collage & soundscapes are also a part of my overal portfolio of sound.
Releases include:
1997 artist: Gype cassette: "edge to slice"
2001 artist: (in)Terminus cd:"into the dextroscope"
2001 artist: dextrospinoza cd:"dyslextro"
I have taken the past 6 years to learn, study and jam in my studio, sampling, sequencing midi, designing midi trigger systems for a live performance approach which i have applied to my recording style. I have recorded hours of experiments and performances, and now iam up to my neck in material...
I expect to be finished in the next year.
Some music will be appearing on the CBCradio3.com DextroSpinoza site beyond my outer space picture here.....
I am also available for production and engineering live bands and studio projects....
all music&ART:(c)dextrospinoza2007//socan


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Jewels at Royal Opera House, WC2
If you have had your fill of Nutcrackers and still want something sparkly for Christmas, here is the answer. Balanchine's trio of plotless ballets — each one inspired by a precious gem — is a glittering showcase for the Royal Ballet and five of its ballerinas.
The Russian master choreographed Jewels for New York City Ballet in 1967, cleverly linking three unrelated ballets with a common theme. He also took the opportunity to pay homage to three different periods in ballet's history.
Emeralds, which is set to music by Fauré, is a hymn to the elegance and poetry of French Romantic ballet, the era of Giselle. Balanchine's choreography floats on a cloud of gentle femininity and ebullient beauty. On opening night its central pas de…


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Move Central is THE BEST! Stan, the owner, communicated with me frequently during the planning and scheduling phase of our daughter's and granddaughter's move on 4/30/17. I asked Stan to please send us his best team for a stress-free move, and that's exactly what he did. He scheduled his AMAZING team of Antonio, David, and Sam.
They were so good that I've hired them for another family move three weeks from now and told Stan we absolutely must have Antonio, David, and Sam! That's how strongly we feel about their competence, professionalism, courtesy, efficiency, carefulness, and hard work. I read several Yelp reviews of other movers before deciding on Move Central, so this wasn't just a lucky pick. This company warrants the praise they're receiving from all of us who have hired them.


text:
Create an Account - Increase your productivity, customize your experience, and engage in information you care about.
Send an email to Watertown Parks and Recreation. Feel free to send pictures.
Show All Answers
For field, court and outdoor rink rentals, complete the Field, Court and Outdoor Rink Permit Application.
For picnic rentals, complete the Picnic Permit Application.
Arsenal Park and Filippello Park are our parks designed for picnics.


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Yahoo's CEO Marissa Mayer after getting her hands over 21 startups, has now added another one to her list. This time Japan based, Venture Republic Inc., through its Japan business arm, 'Yahoo Japan', as reported by Sd Japan. The news came in just after the acquisition of Rockmelt, a social web browser by Yahoo Inc. Financial details of the deal were still undisclosed.
Venture Republic was founded in 2011 by Japanese businessman Kei Shibata. It is a provider of price comparison sites and commerce oriented portals such as Travel.jp, Hotel.jp, and Coneco.net. The startup aims to help make ideal buying decisions and provide a better user experience to its e-commerce customers with this deal.
The Venture Republic will be splitting its properties into two groups viz. Osenikku which will handle Coneco.net and remaining Venture Republic which will handle Travel.jp and Hotel.jp. Yahoo Japan will be acquiring the Venture Republic part through this deal.
Earlier, Venture Republic has also acquired two companies, viz. Dreampass, an on-demand cinema service in Q1 this year and Community Factory, the developer behind smartphone photo app DECOPIC for $12.8 million in 2012. Also, the venture capital arm of the company has made investments in Indonesia based Telunjuk , a price based comparison site and Flocations, Singapore's travel metasearch service.


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Launched in 2006, the well constructed AT-X 100 PRO D from Tokina is still a leading choice in the 1:1 macro category in 2016. In this review, I test out this affordable macro lens that also doubles as a well-rounded portrait or product photography lens - on loan to us from architectural and nature photographer Jeremy Mudd .
Part of Tokina's PRO FX series, the AT-X 100 is designed for full frame cameras and works with the latest FX, DX and film cameras. Auto-focus is not supported on older digital cameras without built-in focus motors. The lens is available for both Canon and Nikon. Included with the AT-X 100 is the BH-551 Lens Hood - a nice, deep bayonet-style hood protecting against unwanted lens flare.
Tokina One Touch Focus Clutch
The AT-X 100 features Tokina's "One Touch Focus Clutch" mechanism, making switching between auto-focus and manual focus fast and easy. This feature has pro's and con's. Unaware of this "feature" when I received the lens, I was alarmed that AF was not working, and was unable to find the typical AF/M switch found on most lens. The focus ring (shown above) detentes at two locations: push the focus ring out for AF (left) and pull in for Manual Focus (right.) Double check when you pull this lens out of your camera bag, and make sure your lens is set to the focus mode you want.
If you use a graduated neutral-density filters, the AT-X 100 features a non-rotating 55mm filter ring. The 55mm filter ring also means an affordable selection of available filters, and good compatibility with after-market which mount to the lens like a Nikon SB-29 or Mieke MK-14EXT ring flash.
Extended F-Stop Range
Interestingly, the f-stop extends past f/32 depending on your focal distance. At ∞ the maximum aperture is f/2.8, while the smallest aperture is f/32. At 1:1 the maximum aperture is limited to f/5.6 and the minimum aperture is extended to f/64. Your camera's AF will automatically detect the correct aperture.
Focus Speed and Performance
Focus speed is one of the limiting factors of the AT-X 100. On the Nikon D750, I found this lens continually wanting to search for focus in AF mode. But this is not a general purpose lens. For macro photography, you will find yourself choosing Manual Focus mode, and slowly moving in and out on your subject, using the focus-ring to adjust the magnification factor. To help reduce focus searching, Tokina added a focus limiter that locks the lens between 1.28 meters to ∞.
Focal Length: 100mm
Maximum Aperture: f/2.8
Minimum Aperture: f/32
Construction: E/G9 Elements in 8 Groups
Minimum Focus Distance: 1.0 ft (0.3 m)
Macro Ratio: 1:1
Focus Limiter: 1.28 - ∞
Zoom Range: 100
Aperture Blades: 9
Filter Size: 55mm
Lens Width: 2.9 in (73.66mm)
Lens Length: 3.7 in (95.00mm)
Weight: 1.2 lbs (540g)
Accessories: Dedicated Lens Hood
Mounts: Canon Full Frame, Nikon Full Frame, Canon APS-C, Nikon APS-C
Warranty: 2 Year Limited Warranty
* from TokinaLens.com
Sample Images
The AT-X 100 PRO D is a capable of life-sized (1:1) reproduction at 11.8 in. (30 cm)
The Tokina 100mm f/2.8 Macro AT-X PRO D is a great, low cost competitor in the ever crowded 100mm 1:1 macro category. The competition includes the Nikon AF-S VR Micro-NIKKOR 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED ($896 Amazon), Sigma 105mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM ($669 Amazon), Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM ($799 Amazon), the Tamron AF 90mm f/2.8 Di SP AF/MF 1:1 ($499 Amazon), and the newest Tamron SP 90mm F/2.8 Di Macro 1:1 VC USD ($649 Amazon). The Tokina comes in most affordable, currently priced at $352 on Amazon.com (affiliate links.) What are you giving up? The mainstream competition have all added vibration control/image stabilization to their offerings leaving Tokina and the unique Venus 2:1 as the only competitors without VC. Is image stabilization a $300-$400 issue? Not for most photographers.
The AT-X 100 PRO D produces sharp, detailed macro images at 1:1. Compared to other low-cost methods (i.e lens reversal) the Tokina allows you to back away from your subject and get the whole insect or flower in the frame without swapping lens or messing with extension tubes.
Liking to work at extreme magnification, a 1:1 magnification ratio might not be close enough for this photographer. When adding a modifier like the Raynox DCR-250, the increased magnification is minimal.
For the price, the Tokina 100mm f/2.8 Macro AT-X PRO D is a strong recommended purchase for the new macro photographer. Am I planning on purchasing one? Not right away. I look forward to testing a new Tamron SP 90mm F/2.8 Di Macro 1:1 VC this spring, and look to test the Venus Optics Laowa 60mm f/2.8 2X Ultra-Macro before committing.


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Nigeria is like the proverbial child of the potter who doesn't have a pot to cook! This is a country with plenty of crude oil but experiences fuel scarcity regularly because we are unable to refine the crude to produce sufficient fuel for our daily consumption. With purposeful leadership, we should not only be producing enough for our needs but we should be exporting to all other west African countries and beyond. The Gods are definitely not to be blamed!
In the same vein, Nigeria is blessed with large quantity of deposits of limestone (the raw materials for producing cement), all over the country, north, south, west or east. It is there in abundance! Our problem is how to turn this God-given gift to cement for our construction industry.
A few months ago, our hopes were raised by the news that Nigeria will not only be able to produce enough cement for domestic consumption but will soon be exporting the product. But today what do we have? The product has become so scarce that the price has risen by as much as 38% in the last six months. A 50kg bag that sold for N1,600 in August 2010 now sells for N2,200!. It could be more outside Lagos.
This problem keeps on recurring because of our overdependence on the use of cement in our construction industry. All our walls are built with cement blocks, our concrete pillars are cement stuffed, same goes for our concrete floors. Cement is used as mortar for bonding the blocks while it is in the same material we use for plastering and for laying the floor and wall tiles. Interlocking blocks made from cement are used for paving the compound and even roads. Cement is therefore a major component in our construction industry. Without cement, the construction industry will be grounded! This is why people will buy it at any price whenever there is a scarcity.
To solve this problem, government has always resorted to adhoc solutions like massive importation or waiver of import duty. But these have not always been effective rather it has sometimes created its own problems like the cement amada and port congestion of the 70s!
What needs to be done is to embark on a massive production of cement locally since we have the raw material in abundance. This we can do by government assisting the local manufacturers in the following ways:-
- Give grants or interest free loan to existing cement manufacturers to allow them expand their production capacities.
- Encourage new factories by giving incentives like waiver of import duties on plants and machineries used for the manufacture of cement. Afterall, the Federal government did this for GSM equipments when they were given licences initially. Tax holidays for some years can also be given to such new factories to enable them stabilize.
- In view of the high costs of production occasioned by lack of necessary infrastructure especially power, government should also waive exercise duties on all locally produced cement to reduce the price to consumers. Right now, locally produced cement is more expensive than imported ones due to infrastructural problems like power and high interest rates.
- As an interim measure only, the Federal government should allow importation of cement at no import duty for a period of just two years to allow 1-3 above materialise in sufficient local production of cement. Once the expansion programmes and new factories are completed, importation should be stopped to encourage the local industries.
In addition to be above, we should look at ways by which we can reduce our dependency on cement. Government should encourage the use of alternative materials like clay bricks, wood, fibre, stones and even mud walls. The only way to do this is for government to use these materials on government projects to demonstrate to the people that they are not inferior to cement blocks. About 90% of houses built in the U.K are built of red brick walls. In the US, wood is mostly used as walling materials.
The impression is given that red brick is inferior to cement blocks in this part of the world but this is not true! The only way to disprove this is for government to use red bricks on its projects. For example, Ekiti State inherited a red brick factory at Ire from the Old Ondo State. On the creation of the state, I wrote a policy paper on housing for the state government in which I had recommended (among other things) that the new state should make use of red bricks from the Ire factory for the building of the state secretariat, the governors lodge, house of assembly as well as residential quarters for the legislators.
If this was done, the state government would have demonstrated to the people that the red brick produced at Ire-Ekiti is as good as cement blocks. That would have encouraged the citizens of the state to patronise the factory thereby keeping it alive and employing many hands. The factory is now dead due to lack of patronage.
There is need to deemphasize the importance of cement in our construction industry by looking at alternative materials as earlier mentioned above. Until this is done, the price of cement will continue to soar since construction activities will continue to increase. There is nothing wrong in using stabilized mud wall for building. The primary school I attended was built about 1954 with mud walls. It is still standing there today 57 years on! This was ordinary mud walls not stabilized at all. A stabilized mud wall can last a century if plastered and painted to prevent water percolation.
In conclusion, the Federal government should look seriously into the cement issue since as at now, we cannot do without it in all our construction activities. Is anybody listening? I doubt!
Kola Akomolede ([email protected])
Chairman, Faculty of Housing, NIESV.


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At Designit4free.com, we help to create thousands of professional business cards every week. As we've pointed out previously, a business card is one of the most important tools that a business has; they're also an incredibly affordable option when it comes to marketing. Businesses often miss the opportunity to make a great impression if they choose to use an unprofessional or poorly looking card which is likely to end up in the trash.
Your business can rise above bad marketing tactics by following these eight business card rules:
1: Hand Out a Card That Stands Out From the Rest
The majority of business cards out there are quite boring and are easily forgotten. You want to hand out a card that both looks and feels great so that your business is remembered even after your first encounter with a prospective business associate or customer. There is no good reason for a business to choose unattractive or unprofessional-looking business cards.
2: Avoid a Mysterious Business Card
You have to ask yourself the question: when you hand someone your business card, can can they tell immediately what your business does? If your card does not make it clear what you do, later on down the road, the recipient will not remember who you are or why they have the card; this will result in less calls or referrals for your business.
3: Never Present a Poor Quality Card
DIY business cards may seem like a cheaper option, but they truly show that you have not taken pride in your company with respect to how you market. People who do not have a background in art, design, or printing will often attempt to print business cards them themselves or order them from a cheap, online company that preys on businesses who want to save a buck. Upon first glance they may look okay – good use of colors, fonts and a simple layout. But usually what ends up happening is the card feels cheaply made and has other quality issues, such as perforations around the sides or other defects. You should never skimp on money when it comes to your business card! You want to have premium card stock, a print that doesn't bleed from a drop of water, a professional embossed logo, and the card should feel great in the hands of the recipient.
Remember that a poor quality business card will imply that a business has poor quality products and services.
4: Small Print is Not Better
Do your business cards have a font size that is so small that you will also need to hand out a magnifying glass in order for people to read them? Sure, you may be able to cram more information onto your cards with a small font, but what is the point when the recipient cannot read them? Unfortunately, when you use a DIY printing company, you will not be sure what size to use, or how much information is too much. Your business card should be your elevator speech, and your professionally designed, custom website that is listed on your card should say the rest.
5: Less is More
Do not go for an oversized business card, that's what a brochure is for! A traditional and standard business card will easily fit in wallets or most business card holders. You may think that an oversized card will help you stand out but most people find it annoying and inconvenient. If you really want your business cards to shine brighter than the rest, consider something with more bling such as a card with glitter, foil, or embossed accents. Or get really daring with die cut, plastic, or 4D lenticular business cards.
6: Clutter is Never a Good Thing
You'll be hard pressed to find a person who enjoys clutter, and the last thing you want is for your business to scream "we're unorganized!" Your business cards do not need to contain every detail about you or your company; that's what websites and social media are supposed to do for you. Too much print is hard to read, looks sloppy and is very unprofessional. Send all of the important information to your graphic designer, and he or she will help you to figure out what is necessary to make your pitch successful and allow prospects to contact you in the future.
7: Provide a Unique Selling Proposition
Most businesses miss the opportunity of using their business cards to their full marketing potential. Your cards should list at least one powerful reason that a customer should do business with you. Why are you the best? What services do you offer that no one else does? And be sure to work with a graphic designer who is willing to help you come up with a way to word your cards for maximum marketing power.
8: Business Cards That Sit Around
What good is having a box of business cards laying around if all they're doing is collecting dust? It's important to remember the old saying "use it or lose it" and you cannot afford to lose business! Never forget to take a good supply of cards with you everywhere you go. Be sure to hand them out when appropriate, and give out more than one so that you can get referrals. Make sure you do not forget to reorder your supply so you never have to worry about being the business owner who says "sorry, I don't have any cards left."


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Bess, a lonely, trailer park teen, steals a car and makes a desperate journey from Kansas to Vegas in search of a father she never knew. Her trip takes her deep into the seedy underbelly of America where she encounters an array of lost-souls, deadbeats and con men, and learns that family can be found in the oddest of places.
TRT: 80 minutes - Available on iTunes, Amazon and DVD HERE.
Starring Pedro Pascal, Bill Sage, Caitlin Kinnenun & Jospeh Montes
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Billy Mize's contributions to country western music helped shape the industry. His charm and golden voice are legendary among country music's elite as is his passion for music. A performer on the brink of fame, his is a spectacular tale about identity and sacrifice in the music industry woven between acts of personal inspiration and horrible tragedy. In short, Billy Mize's story needs to be told.
TRT: 98 minutes - Complete. Watch full movie HERE.
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Jayden Stone, a two-year-old Australian boy, survived brain cancer thanks to proton beam therapy, the most effective yet highly controversial form of cancer treatment today. Over the course of 10 years, we'll track the development of both Jayden and the burgeoning proton beam industry.
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The Other Side of Fear - Documentary
A feature documentary investigating the out-dated programs and recent innovative ideas surrounding the United States foster care system. See more HERE.
Currently in Pre-Production
Directed by William J Saunders
Produced by James Windeler & William J Saunders
The Penny Black - Documentary
Will Smith, the estranged son of a conman, fights temptation, paranoia, and his own nefarious legacy after being left with a mysterious, million-dollar stamp collection.
Currently in Post Production
Directed by William J Saunders
Produced by Alex Greer


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More than 100 middle school girls will attend the annual "Girls Go STEM" event on May 15 on the SUNY Adirondack campus in Queensbury.
The program, organized by the Adirondack Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) and SUNY Adirondack's Office of Continuing Education, focuses on science, technology, engineering and math education.
Hands-on workshops in a variety of STEM-related disciplines will give girls who might not otherwise have the opportunity to attend academic enrichment opportunities a day to learn, explore and meet accomplished women in a collegiate setting.
Female academics and professionals from SUNY Adirondack, Arrow Financial Corporation, Hudson Falls School District and JMZ Architects and Planners will present workshops to students. JMZ President Tenée Rehm Casaccio will deliver the keynote address.
For more information, contact Yvonne Goodwin in the SUNY Adirondack Office of Continuing Education at 518.743.2238.


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Spare part catalogue
Assert new partner in Germany
Signifikant signs agreement with Simonsoft GmbH, headquartered in Munich, Germany, for providing the Assert solution to D-A-CH countries including Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Lichtenstein, Belgium and Luxembourg. Simonsoft GmbH is an experienced provider of IT solutions for technical documentation and service lifecycle management. "We are very excited about this partnership as it provides Simonsoft customers access to a complete and modern aftermarket solution that enables the creation and delivery of aftermarket information. Assert can be used as a point solution or can be integrated into the existing IT landscape as part of an larger scale optimization project of aftermarket business processes." says Matthias Pfeifer, Managing Director of Simonsoft GmbH.
"We are absolutely delighted to partner with Simonsoft GmbH, which provides the highest class services and solutions within technical documentation, parts software solutions and service lifecycle management.", says Mattias Löfstrand, CEO of Signifikant Svenska AB.
For more information about Assert visit Simonsoft GmbH under www.simonsoft.de or Signifikant under www.signifikant.se
© Signifikant Svenska AB


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