On Oct. 28, 2016, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that an investment firm founder (the Director) agreed to pay $720,000 in civil penalties in a settlement with the agency to resolve its allegations that he violated the reporting and waiting period requirements of the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976 (the HSR Act) by failing to report stock acquisitions from two issuers between 2001 and 2012.
The FTC alleged that the Director could not rely on the "investment-only" exemption from filing for certain incremental acquisitions of voting shares of an energy infrastructure company (the Energy Company) and an insurance holding company (the Insurance Company) because, at the time of each relevant transaction, he was serving as a member of the board of the company.
The HSR Act requires parties – both individuals and companies – with investments that exceed certain jurisdictional thresholds to make filings with the FTC and the DOJ and to observe a waiting period of 30 calendar days before closing. The HSR Act and rules provide numerous exemptions from the reporting and waiting period requirements. One important exemption provides that an acquisition of up to 10 percent of the outstanding voting securities of an issuer is exempt, regardless of value, so long as the acquisition is made "solely for the purpose of investment," meaning that the holder of voting stock "has no intention of participating in the formulation, determination, or direction of the basic business decisions of the issuer." The question of intent is assessed at the time of each purchase of voting securities of the issuer.
In the absence of an exception, the HSR Act requires an acquirer to make a filing before acquiring and holding an aggregate amount of voting securities of an issuer valued in excess of certain monetary thresholds. Prior to Feb. 1, 2001, the HSR Act's reporting and waiting period requirements applied to most transactions where the acquiring person would hold more than $15 million of the issuer's voting securities. As of Feb. 1, 2001, the HSR Act was amended to provide for a monetary threshold of $50 million. At the same time, the HSR Act was amended to require additional notifications for transactions in which the acquirer will hold voting securities in excess of $100 million, and for transactions in which the acquirer will hold voting securities in excess of $500 million. Since 2004, these thresholds have been adjusted annually.
The thresholds apply to a person's holdings of voting securities in the aggregate; in other words, a person who holds $99 million of voting securities and seeks to acquire an additional $2 million of voting stock would be crossing the $100 million threshold.
The Director was an early investor in the Energy Company and, by August 1999, held shares valued at approximately $50 million. The initial acquisitions of these shares were exempt because he was not a board member and was otherwise a passive investor. However, according to the complaint, he became a member of the board in October 1999 and continued to serve as a director through 2014. On Jan. 23, 2001, the Director acquired 237,500 shares of the Energy Company on the open market without making any HSR Act notification and observing a post-filing waiting period. The aggregate value of voting securities he held in the Energy Company following that acquisition necessarily exceeded the then applicable $15 million size of transaction threshold. The FTC alleged that this January 2001 purchase resulted in the first HSR Act violation.
On July 16, 2006, the Director acquired an additional 1,600 shares of the Energy Company as compensation for serving on its board. Following this acquisition, the Director held voting securities valued in excess of $113.4 million, the "adjusted" $100 million threshold in effect at the time of that receipt of shares. The FTC alleged that this receipt of shares resulted in a second HSR Act violation, for failure to notify and observe a waiting period before acquiring voting shares at a time when his aggregate holdings exceeded the next monetary threshold.
Finally, on Oct. 25, 2012, the Director acquired 300,000 shares of the Energy Company on the open market, at a time when his aggregate holdings exceeded the "adjusted" $500 million threshold. Again, the FTC alleged that this purchase of shares prior to filing and observing a waiting period resulted in a third HSR Act violation.
The complaint states that, in November 2014, the Director made a separate corrective filing for each of the three notification thresholds exceeded as a result of the 2001, 2006, and 2012 acquisitions referenced above.
The Director was also an investor in an electronics and technology company that owned the predecessor company to the Insurance Company (the Predecessor). In 1990, the Predecessor was spun off from the electronics and technology company, and investors in that company, including the Director, received pro-rata shares of the Predecessor. According to the complaint, the Director joined the Predecessor's board shortly after the spinoff. According to the complaint, he acquired 10,000 shares of the Predecessor on the open market in May 2007 without filing a notification under the HSR Act and, at the time of that transaction, already held voting securities of the Predecessor. The aggregate value of his holdings in the Predecessor at that time exceeded the minimum "adjusted" $50 million threshold. The FTC alleged that this purchase of shares, completed without first filing and observing a waiting period, resulted in a fourth HSR Act violation.
As described in the FTC's complaint, the Director continued to acquire Predecessor voting securities through various transactions through September 2008, and at all relevant times served on the board of the company. He also made a corrective filing on Nov. 21, 2014 for the aforementioned acquisition of shares of the Predecessor.
The HSR Act provides that "any person, or any officer, director, or partner thereof" who fails to comply with any provision of the HSR Act is liable for a civil penalty of $40,000 for each day during which such person is in violation.2 Because of the length of time during which the Director was alleged to have been in violation of the HSR Act (in one case spanning more than a decade), the maximum penalty could have technically totaled over $100 million.
The case is remarkable because it (1) appears to represent the first time that an acquiring person has been fined for failure to file without any reference to a prior HSR violation, and where the acquirer has self-reported the alleged violation, and (2) imposes penalties for alleged violations of the HSR Act occurring as far back as 2001.
In previous settlements, the complaint has described the defendant's prior violations of the HSR Act. No such reference is made here. The FTC may have decided to pursue an action and impose a fine in this instance, without any documented prior violation, because of the number of successive transactions and monetary thresholds exceeded and the length of time during which the Director was alleged to have been in violation of the HSR Act. The Competitive Impact Statement accompanying the settlement states that the government sought a penalty of less than one percent of the maximum permitted because "the violations were inadvertent, the Defendant promptly self-reported the violations after discovery, and the Defendant is willing to resolve the matter by consent decree and avoid prolonged investigation and litigation." It remains to be seen whether the FTC may in the future seek penalties for more recent "first offenses" that are self-reported.
The case serves as an important reminder that the FTC continues to be vigilant in strictly enforcing the requirements of the HSR Act, without regard to competitive significance of individual transactions, and particularly with respect to officers and directors holding sizable amounts of their companies' voting stock. Individuals who serve as officers or directors of large companies, public or private, should consult with counsel to carefully track the value of their holdings to ensure that all transactions involving the receipt of stock of the company are completed only after any applicable requirements of the HSR Act have been satisfied.
1 See United States v. Barry Diller, Civil Action No. 1:13-cv-01002 (D.D.C. July 3, 2013), https://www.ftc.gov/enforcement/cases-proceedings/121-0179/diller-barry-us. up.
2 The maximum civil penalty was increased effective Aug. 1, 2016 from $16,000 to $40,000 per day, and such daily maximum applies to violations occurring prior to August 2016. up.
3 See United States v. Brian L. Roberts, Civil Action No. 111-cv-02240 (D.D.C. December 28, 2011). up.


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Зелёное () — село в Веселиновском районе Николаевской области Украины.

Основано в 1880 году. Население по переписи 2001 года составляло 269 человек. Почтовый индекс — 57032. Телефонный код — 5163. Занимает площадь 0,593 км².

Местный совет
57032, Николаевская обл., Веселиновский р-н, с. Зелёное

Ссылки
 Учётная карточка населённого пункта — Зелёное на сайте Верховной рады

Населённые пункты Веселиновского района

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


The Partnership for a Healthy Community is a community-driven effort to improve health and wellness in Central Illinois. Multiple organizations, sectors, and the public participate in population health planning to identify and prioritize health needs and quality of life issues, map and leverage community resources, and form effective partnerships to implement health improvement strategies in Peoria, Tazewell, and Woodford Counties. Please visit the Healthy HOI page to learn more.
Using actionable data to identify health needs and priorities, including those related to health disparities, health inequities, and the social determinants of health, the Partnership for a Healthy Community developed the 2016 to 2019 Community Health Improvement Plan (PDF).
The goal of the Good Food Recovery is to improve the availability of healthy food alternatives to food banks, food pantries and kitchens through donated fresh vegetables, fruit and prepared meals. Recovering unsold, surplus food is easy with Good Food Recovery's Web application called ChowMatch, which will match food donations with hunger relief organizations and volunteer food runners for transportation.


This is an article on a Jazz Band from Kuala Lumpur featuring Singer, Saxophone and Violin player. During this event, the Jazz band performed two sets.
The second set was live entertainment provided during dinner at the grand ballroom. This set mainly features the saxophone and violin player. They performed 4 pieces of different styles in succession serenading the audience. This lasted approximately 12 minutes.
There is a kind of intimacy in this performance as the two musicians slowly walk down the aisle of the ballroom performing thus entertaining and communing with their listeners. They finally walk onto the main stage to render their last number.
This is the 8th Annual Golden Bull Awards event that was held in GICC (Genting International Convention Centre) on the 12th of November 2010.
Do watch this video to get an idea of the Jazz band's performance that features singer, saxophonist and violinist. If you are interested to have such entertainment at your company / corporate events in Malaysia, contact Jason Geh at 016 2800216.


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Left Foot Forward Public Services
Did the Tories and SNP just team up to block rail re-nationalisation?
Scotland's privatised rail operator has been under fire for dire performance in recent months. But a Scottish Labour motion to renationalise the system was defeated.
It's a common allegation levelled by Scottish Labour: that the SNP's left-wing rhetoric does not match up to the party's actions in government.
Now Scottish Labour say the SNP and Conservative members of the Scottish Parliament have teamed up to block nationalisation of Scotland's railways.
In a crucial debate on Wednesday, Scottish Labour urged the government to use a 'break clause' in Abellio's contract to run ScotRail.
Abellio have come under huge criticism over the past month, after figures revealed that ScotRail's performance level was at its lowest since the franchise began.
But SNP and Tory MSPs voted against the proposal to end the franchise early, meaning 'passengers [will] continue to suffer at the hands of this failing franchise', according to Scottish Labour.
Scottish Labour's Transport spokesperson Colin Smyth MSP said:
"Hard pressed passengers across the country will be disgusted to see the SNP and the Tories block Labour's plans to end the privatisation of Scotland's railways.
"Abellio was supposed to be a world leading contract for ScotRail. Instead passengers are suffering from overpriced, overcrowded trains that are frequently cancelled.
"Time and time again the SNP choose not to use Holyrood's substantial powers in the interests of the many, not the few.
"Only Scottish Labour will end this failed privatisation model and give the country the real change it needs."
Ellen Lees, Campaigns Officer for public ownership campaign group We Own It, told LFF:
"This is a real wasted opportunity for Scotland to take control of their railway and run it for people, not profit. Scottish people want public ownership, not more of the same disruption and failure in private hands.
"Just as with Scottish Water, Scotrail could be publicly owned and a great success, out of the hands of Westminster, and private profit-making companies. "
Unions were also angered at the move. "Nationalisation of ScotRail at the earliest opportunity is in the best interests of Scotland. It would give us lower fares and better investment in trains" said TSSA general secretary Manuel Cortes.
But a Scottish Government spokesperson said:
"We know performance is not where it should be – that is why ministers can and do hold Abellio ScotRail to account within the terms of the franchise agreement.
"This includes the ability to end the contract if its terms are not met and it is in the public interest to do so – nothing has changed in this regard."
The vote to continue the privatised model came just hours after ScotRail boss Alex Hynes confirmed media reports that the franchise had received advance subsidy payments from the Scottish government for forthcoming financial years.
While nationalisation of Scotland's railways is off the cards for now, this saga will only fuel public anger at privatised railways.
Josiah Mortimer is Editor of Left Foot Forward. Follow him on Twitter.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Step-by-step guide to applying for a short-stay Schengen visa in the US.
Do US citizens need a visa to Europe?
Who needs to apply for Schengen Visa in USA?
How to apply for Schengen Visa in USA?
Europe remains the top favorite overseas destination for US travelers. With its touristic destinations, historical monuments and sites, beautiful mountains and landscapes, the old continent keeps luring travelers across the globe. Almost 16 million US residents entered Europe in 2017 alone. After the neighboring Mexico, Europe was the second most visited by Americans within the same year.
For some, traveling is easy. You buy a ticket, and that is it. For others, traveling includes applications and processes that are often confusing and time-consuming, in particular when it comes to traveling to Europe.
If you are living in the United States, and you do not know what procedures you should follow to enter Europe, this article will make it clear to you.
A passport holder of one of the Schengen States.
A holder of a valid residence permit issued by one of the Schengen countries.
*You will need to apply for an ETIAS starting January 1, 2021, in order to be permitted to enter any of the Schengen states.
Please keep in mind that you will be able to get a Schengen visa from US only if you have a US residence permit. In case you are there on a visa, you will not be able to apply for a Schengen Visa. Instead, you will have to go to your country of residence in order to be able to apply.
Below, find the answers to all these questions and much more.
Where to Apply for a Schengen Visa in US?
How many Schengen countries will you visit?
How much you will remain in each?
In which country will you step first?
If you are going to visit only one country, then file your application at the embassy / consulate / visa center of that country in the US.
Embassy / consulate / visa center of another Schengen country to which your destination country has outsourced visa submission.
Aside of that, in the US, each embassy and each consulate have their own jurisdiction area. This means that where you need to file your application also depends on the jurisdiction area under which you fall.
Once again, you cannot just file you visa application whenever you want to. The most advisable time to file your application is three weeks prior to your trip to Schengen zone.
Still, the earliest you can submit your Schengen visa application is three months prior to your trip to this region. The latest you can do so, is two months prior to the date of your planned trip.
To complete your application process, you will need to collect the required documents to apply for Schengen visa in USA, which are mandatory.
Schengen Visa Application Form. The form is the same for all countries in Schengen. Fulfill the form with correct information and print it twice. Sign both copies at the end.
Valid passport. Your passport must be valid for another three months beyond the date you plan to leave the area. It must not be older than ten years, and have at least two blank pages.
Two identical photos. It must not be older than 3 months and fulfill the requirements for a Schengen visa photo.
Schengen Travel Health Insurance for Europe. In the minimum amount of €30,000, that covers any medical emergencies and repatriation in case of death.
Flight Itinerary. A document through which you prove you have a saved seat in a flight. It also contains the dates you enter and leave Schengen.
Cover Letter. A letter in which you explain your whole trip in details, what you will be doing, the places you will be visiting, etc.
Proof of financial means. Evidence that you have the means to support yourself throughout your whole trip in the Schengen Area.
Leave permission from the employer.
No objection letter from School or University in the US.
Your spouse's Confirmation of Employment. This document should be issued by the employer of your spouse, and must indicate details as the position held by your spouse within the company, as well as the starting date.
An officially translated marriage certificate. If your marriage certificate is not in English, translation is required. This translation must be certified as a true copy by the Embassy of the country where the marriage took place or by the Legalization Bureau of the Foreign Office in US. In case this Certificate was issued outside the EU, it must bear a stamp by the Foreign Office of the issuing country, or its Embassy in the US.
Remember that despite of the fact the Schengen states have a common visa policy, some of the countries may have extra requirements. Thus, when you apply for i.e. a Germany Schengen Visa, or a France Schengen visa, expect some additional requirements or different documents' specifications.
A Schengen visa interview is a meeting of the applicant with a visa consular at the appointment center. The interview lasts around ten minutes. Throughout this time, you will have to submit the required documents and answer to the questions the visa interviewer asks.
The interviewer will ask you about your background, the reasons why you wish to visit the Schengen Zone and other questions related to your trip.
If you have never applied for a Schengen visa before, you will have to submit your biometrics. Which means you will have your fingerprints and facial image taken.
The fees for a Schengen visa are the same, no matter which countries you will be visiting. Currently, the fee for a Schengen visa for adults is $69 and $40 for children under 12. Children below the age of 6, do not have to pay any fees.
In addition, there are categories of people who are exempt from paying the fee, or who only have to pay a lower fee. Check the Schengen visa fees for more!
Keep in mind that in case of visa rejection or application withdrawal you will not be able to get your money back.
Starting from January 1, 2021, all U.S citizens and U.S travelers from visa-exempt countries will have to apply for an ETIAS prior to their trip to Schengen. ETIAS stands for European Travel Information and Authorization System, and is quite similar to the American ESTA.


If you do not think about roof reconstructions commonly, chances are that you don't recognize the significance of it. However roof reconstruction is essential ought to you intend to keep your roof in good shape. Actually, your roof shields you against sunlight, dust, rain as well as climate. Given listed below are some suggestions that can assist you with your roof repair service.
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If you want to prevent the buildup of mosses, mildew and also mold and mildew, you may wish to cleanse your roof on a regular basis. Refraining from doing so will make your roof weak. Because of this, you might need to replace it earlier.
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So, if you adhere to these 9 tips when repairing your roof, you will have the ability to get the whole task done correctly. Just ensure you don't do heavy repair work on your own.


Many people have struggled with weight management their whole life, and now with the products offered by Diet Direct, weight management has been made a lot simpler and easier. Diet Direct is considered as one of the largest online providers for diet plans and vitamin supplements on the market. Not only do they carry a large selection of different products that are geared towards weight management, but they are also able to offer competitive prices and amazing deals and savings that retail stores simply cannot offer.
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Phnom Penh Post - A dreaded homecoming
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A dreaded homecoming
Alice Cuddy and Phak Seangly | Publication date 22 October 2015 | 06:14 ICT
An asylum seeker talks about his life in Vietnam earlier this week on the outskirts of Phnom Penh. Hong Menea
Thu, 22 October 2015
Alice Cuddy and Phak Seangly
With the deadline looming for hundreds of Montagnard asylum seekers in Cambodia to return "voluntarily" to the site of their alleged persecution or be forced back across the border, a group who have spent months living in the shadows this week spoke out about their life in limbo and fears of impending abuse.
In a safe-house on the outskirts of Phnom Penh, four of the Vietnamese asylum seekers knelt on the floor of a dingy room where they recalled the beatings and arrests they say drove them into Cambodia.
Three of them arrived seven months ago, crossing the well-trodden path over the border into Ratanakkiri province's vast forests with eight other asylum seekers.
The fourth arrived in July in a group of 13, crossing into Svay Rieng province. Like hundreds of others, they then travelled down to the capital in hopes that the United Nations would be able to help.
They are now sharing a house with 35 other asylum seekers, including 10 young children. Between three and five people are crammed into each bedroom, they said.
With the government refusing to register their claims and threatening to deport them if they haven't returned to Vietnam by February 6, they have little to do but wait to be forced back home, where they say abuse is inevitable.
Life in a city that doesn't want them has proved solitary, with the group rarely venturing outside for fear of arrest.
"We're bored and tired staying in the room, in such a small space. Mostly we stay indoors without doing any exercise . . . My legs and hands are numb. We want to go outside. We want to do work," said 29-year-old Binh*, who arrived in Phnom Penh in March.
But the group said a life in hiding is better than what awaits them across the border.
Since being informed a few weeks ago of the government's deadline, they say that they have been struggling to sleep, consumed by nightmares of persecution, violence and imprisonment.
Fleeing abuse
After a small number of Montagnards arrived in Cambodia last October, dozens more quickly followed. More than 200 have taken the risky journey in less than a year.
All of the asylum seekers from the predominantly Christian minority group from Vietnam's central highlands claim to be fleeing religious or political persecution.
In the past year, the Montagnards have been accused in Vietnamese state media of possessing religious "evil ways" and politically "autonomous thoughts".
In Gia Lai province – home to three of the group that spoke out this week – local television has reported that officials have organised "search and hunt" actions to seek out unofficial religious activities, according to Human Rights Watch.
It adds that legal mechanisms to control religion have also increased.
In January 2013, "the government promulgated Decree 92 . . . [which] includes onerous requirements for official permission to practise religious beliefs and vague prohibitions on religious expression, making it easier for the authorities to selectively repress any religious activities they desire".
All four of the asylum seekers in Phnom Penh told the Post they had been persecuted because of their beliefs.
"When the Vietnamese authorities see us gathering to pray and talk about our religion, they summon and arrest us or our leaders for questioning," Binh said.
He claimed there are no limits to the oppression.
"Even when we raise money and rice for a funeral the Vietnamese authorities summon us for questioning. We don't have religious freedom. We are accused of opposing the Vietnamese authorities when we hold religious gatherings because believing in Christ is considered opposition to the Vietnamese government".
Binh – who left his two young sons and wife back in Vietnam for fear that they wouldn't be able to cope with the arduous journey across the border and would face even harsher mistreatment if they were caught and forced to return – was imprisoned for more than seven years for opposing the government. He claims the sentence stemmed from his religious activities.
Puih Houng (left) along with fellow asylum seekers talk about their life in Vietnam erlier this week in the capital. Hong Menea
He pulled out documents confirming his sentence, which he had hoped to use in the refugee interviews that the government is refusing to permit.
He stood up and acted out torture methods that he claims to have endured during his sentence, including being hung from the ceiling with just the tips of his toes touching the ground, and having his ears repeatedly slapped.
The eldest member of the group, 45-year-old Puih Houng – who insisted that his real name be used – joined in, acting out how he was beaten by the authorities during stints in prison.
Puih Houng pulled off his shirt, revealing crudely etched tattoos identifying him as a Montagnard and a representative of his community.
"When the Vietnamese authorities saw, they arrested me and beat me up until I was unconscious. They did it because of the tattoos; they accused me of opposing the Vietnamese authorities."
One of Puih Houng's latest tattoos depicts a screaming face. Below it are the letters "UNHCR" – the UN agency he hopes will put an end to the alleged horrors.
Fear of return
Both men have made the journey to Cambodia multiple times in the past.
Puih Houng pulled out a letter from UNHCR from more than a decade ago informing him that his asylum application had been rejected. He says he will continue to flee until he is recognised as a refugee.
The other two asylum seekers interviewed had never fled before.
When asked if any specific incident had prompted the wave of Montagnards across the border, all four said it was a result of continuing and heightening persecution.
"Our purpose here is to ask UNHCR to shelter us somewhere safe," Binh said.
But the group's hopes have been dashed by announcements that they will not be given access to the asylum-application process, which the government took over from UNHCR in 2009.
The four claimed that UNHCR had warned them that if they didn't return they would be handed over to the government.
But the agency said its remarks had been misinterpreted.
"UNHCR has informed the Montagnards of the government's announcements and counselled them on their options. For those who decide to return to Vietnam, we talk to them further to ensure that they are doing so voluntarily," said regional spokesperson Vivian Tan.
"UNHCR fully respects the principle of non-refoulement and cannot repatriate people against their will," she added.
All four asylum seekers said they would never voluntarily return to Vietnam, but with even 13 registered Montagnard refugees under threat of deportation if resettlement options are not found, they know the outlook is bleak.
"When we were told [about the deadline] we were worried. We couldn't sleep or eat," said 33-year-old Chau*, a female asylum seeker who arrived in late July.
'False' promises
UNHCR has received assurances from Vietnam that Montagnards who do return will not be mistreated.
Tan said UNHCR has visited "over a third" of the 36 Montagnards who have returned already with the agency's help "and hope to have access to the others". But the asylum seekers in Phnom Penh said they were certain that the abuse would continue.
"The UN trust promises made by the Vietnamese authorities . . . [because] when the UN is there, there is no problem, but when the UN leaves we are summoned for questioning and mistreated."
Phil Robertson, deputy director of Human Rights Watch's Asia division, agreed that "pledges to protect returning Montagnards are not worth the breath that leaders in Hanoi used to utter them".
"We've seen repeated cycles of rights abuses, and ethnic and religious discrimination, inflicted by Vietnam against the Montagnards and any official or organisation who fails to realise that is deliberately fooling themselves," he said.
Interior Ministry spokesman Khieu Sopheak this week repeated claims that the unregistered Montagards are not legitimate asylum seekers and would be forced to return if they fail to meet the deadline.
But amid the threats, more Montagnards are planning to enter Cambodia. An ethnic Jarai man living in Ratanakkiri who has helped groups of the asylum seekers reach Phnom Penh said "many more" have asked about the situation in Cambodia and for his assistance.
*Names have been changed to protect identities
Contact authors: Alice Cuddy and Phak Seangly
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When he no longer has that innocence, that gold.
That on seeing me, those eyelids begin to fold.
Where, forever in darkness, it is doomed to stay.
Yet you remain the peak that I can never surmount.
But, will you be there, when I get there?


text:
Best regards from far,
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Lucca: your ultimate guide [2 to 5 days]
Posted on November 3, 2020 by bestregardsfromfar
Text: Claire Lessiau
Photographs: Claire Lessiau & Marcella van Alphen
Lucca is this kind of city. The more time you spend here, the longer you want to stay. Yes, the picturesque walled Tuscan city at the foot of the Apennine Mountains and along the Serchio River is touristy. Still it remains an authentic city with a very nice atmosphere, different from a slightly arrogant museum-Florence (don't get me wrong, Florence can be wonderful, but it has also been the victim of its success and mass tourism seems to have taken the best of it) or quick-cruise-stop Pisa. How long to plan for Lucca? Two days is the absolute minimum, spending at least a night within the city walls. Here are many ideas sorted out by themes to spend a good 4 to 5 days in the city, including climbing its towers, visiting excellent museums, tasting and cooking delicious Tuscan specialties, listening to some Puccini, and experiencing unexpected outdoor activities.
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A little bit of history to understand Lucca better
Founded by the Etruscans, inhabited by the Ligurians, Lucca became an important Roman city in the second century before Christ at the crossroads of some of the empire's main way of communication, both by land and by water thanks to the Serchio River. Today's Via Paolino and Via Fillungo lined with inviting shops still form the cross that was in the center of the squared Roman city. The arena where gladiators used to compete in front of 10,000 spectators is now the touristic Piazza Anfiteatro with its many restaurants. It denotes with its circular shape that has remained: after the Barbarian invasions, its stones were reused to build houses against its outside structure.
After the Roman Empire collapsed, the city was seriously christianized, to the point it is still nicknamed "the town of the 100 churches".
Lucca was the capital of Tuscany for about 200 years (846-1057), and it really boomed at the end of the 11th century when some Lucchese came back from the first crusade. The trade of silk, precious stones and currencies developed greatly. Very skilled silk weavers were able to rival with Byzantine silks intertwining the precious thread coming from the Far East with gold and silver worked by some of the best goldsmiths of the time, and exporting Lucchese fabrics all over Europe.
If the Middle Ages were prosperous for Lucca and saw a new defensive wall being built, churches like the beautiful San Michele in Foro and the impressive San Martino cathedral and the tower houses of powerful families appear as well as the current architecture, they were also tainted by regular conflicts with surrounding powerful city-states such as Pisa and Florence. Between the 12th and 14th centuries, the Ghibellines, or the factions of the pope (Lucca – most of the time) and the Guelphs, factions of the Holy Roman emperor (Pisa and Florence) opposed each other. Contrary to the other Tuscan towns, Lucca was never tamed by Florence and the usually ever-present Medici coat of arm is nowhere to be seen in the walled city. Regular conflicts amongst the ruling families led to political instabilities and the decline of the city and exodus of some of its wealthiest merchants. Still, Lucca – like Venice – is one of the rare republics of Italy that had remained an independent state during the vast majority of its history until the 19th century when it got united with the Italian kingdom. Even today, inhabitants here are proud Lucchese first, Tuscans second.
Take some altitude to grasp Lucca from the top of a tower
Lucca is famous not only for its intact city wall, but also for its many towers. Most were built to show off power and wealth, while others had defensive or religious purposes. Only the church tower could be higher than the tower of the city: family towers had to be lower. The best way to grasp the city and its surroundings is by taking the steep climb up some of the most iconic towers of Lucca:
Between 1400 and 1430, Paolo Guinigi was the lord of Lucca. He was one of the richest men on the planet back then thanks to the silk trade and his ability to lend money: his tower amongst the 250 medieval towers of Lucca had to be special! At the end of the 14th century, the Guinigi family built its 44-meter high rectangular brick and stone tower, and planted seven Holm oak trees on top of it, one for each family member. To this day, the Guinigi Tower is unmistakable and still sticks out. Conquer its 230 steps and take in the wonderful 360-degree view on Lucca in the welcoming shade of the trees.
Torre delle Ore [the Clock Tower] was built in stones in the 12th century by the Quartigiani family in a robust and military-style architecture. Rivalries amongst leading families often lead to the destruction of their towers, or in this case their confiscation. This family tower became a city tower, used to alert the town in case of a danger signalled by some of the defensive towers located on the surrounding hills. A public clock was also installed in the 14th century as the tower had a very central location in town. Its staircase is small and dark and it takes 207 steps to climb atop its 50 meters and enjoy a stunning view on Lucca and on the Guinigi Tower.
Discover the excellent museums of Lucca
Puccini Casa Natale [Puccini birth home]
When visiting Lucca, one cannot fail to notice that Puccini hovers, from restaurant names to daily concerts. He is the city's most celebrated genius. Visit Puccini's birth house to also study documents, sheet music, and objects retracing the life and career of the maestro.
For a full article to follow the footsteps of the famous Lucca-born composer Giacomo Puccini (Madam Butterfly, Tosca, La Bohème…), check this article out.
Museo Nazionale di Palazzo Mansi [Mansi Palace]
The first-floor apartments of the apparently austere building are richly decorated in 17th and 18th centuries baroque style with frescoes, stucco decorations, furniture and tapestries, making it a museum within a museum. The rich Mansi silk merchants bought the typical Lucchese 16th century palace in 1616 and started important renovations. Their mansion has been converted into a national gallery exhibiting some of the precious fabrics that made the Lucchese silk so sought after and the Mansi and their city so wealthy, as well as paintings by the Italian and Flemish schools of painting. Actually, the Duke of Lucca Carlo Luigi di Borbone payed his gambling debts selling the art pieces of the Palazzo Ducale in 1836! When Lucca was annexed to the Grand Duchy of Tuscany in 1847, the city asked for artwork as models for its artists and to refund the citizens of their great art loss. As a consequence, the paintings exhibited in the Mansi Palace were part of the Medici collection and cover a period from the 16th until the mid-18th century.
Museo Nazionale di Villa Guinigi [Villa Guinigi National Museum]
This late-Gothic building (1418) built as a countryside palace for Lucca's ruler Paolo Guinigi houses Lucca's largest art collection by local and guest artists. High quality and mostly religious art pieces from the ancient, medieval, Renaissance, baroque and neoclassic periods are very well highlighted covering a time period of 2,600 years from the 8th century BC until the 18th century. Original altarpieces from the San Giovanni e Reparata church, colums of the San Michele in Foro church and wooden chairs from the Sant Martino cathedral are staged.
Look for the masterpieces of wooden inlay works from the 15th century by the Venetian artists Christofor Canozzi. His large works were commissioned for the sacristy wardrobes of the Lucca Cathedral and showcase a perfect example of linear perspective creating a pictorial scene of Lucca and its medieval walls in a complex work of art that has been well preserved.
Our highlights: the really well preserved mosaico in Bicromia: trigone e nereide II secolo DC, the 1235 Berlinghieri's wooden cross (tempera paintings on board) of the triumphant Christ is in an excellent state of preservation, Fra Bartolomeo's paintings, Pietro Paolini's (1603-1681) martyr paintings influenced by Caravaggio and Pompeo Batoni's (1708-1781) canvas, maybe the most important Lucchese artist and one of the great painters of the 18th century.
Amongst 100+ churches, which ones should you visit?
In the city of 100 churches, it is easy to get churched out! Here is a selection of our favourites with their highlights.
Cattedrale di San Martino [Saint Martin's Cathedral]
This is a must! While the magnificent Roman-Pisan style façade and 60-meter high bell tower impress, the marble interior of the cathedral is filled with precious sculptures, paintings and altarpieces. The Judgement of Salomon (1475) on the floor with marble inlays by Antonio di Ghino da Siena, the Madonna with the Child on the throne amongst four Saints by Domenico Ghirlandaio, the Last Supper (1594) by Tintoretto, the Dead Christ by Filippino Lippi and the Monument to Ilaria del Carretto sarcophagus (1407) by Jacopo della Quercia are some of the masterpieces to admire.
San Michele in Foro [Saint Michael's Basilica]
Dating back to the 8th century, Saint Michael's basilica was rebuilt and ornamented over the centuries. It's beautiful Roman-Pisan style façade dates back to the 13th century. Inside, make sure to check out the 12th century polychromatic wooden cross, the Madonna with Child terracotta by Lucca della Robbia and the beautiful Four Saints painting by Filippino Lippi. Also look for the medieval graffiti on the columns!
Chiesa dei Santi Giovanni e Reparata [Saint Giovanni e Reparata Church]
Built over the ruins of the Roman baths and of an octagonal Roman dome (that would have inspired Brunelleschi to design the Florentine Duomo), Saint Giovanni e Reparata was the cathedral of Lucca between its construction in the 4th century and the 8th century. A museum today, it is interesting to see the layers of buildings from the first BC until the 12th centuries. At night, concerts are held in this intimate atmosphere (see below).
Basilica di San Frediano
The façade of the Romanesque church adorns an imposing and beautiful golden Byzantine-style mosaic of The Ascension of Christ the Saviour with the 12 apostles that was designed by Berlinghieri in the 13th century.
Chiesa di Santa Maria della Rosa [Saint Mary of the Rose's Church]
This small church is worth a quick visit to see the thousand-year old Roman wall on which it was built. This is one of the most noticeable part of the antique wall.
A secret gem: the oratorio dei SS. Angeli Custodi
One barely notices its entrance and building. Built in 1638 by the religious Bonnaventura Gasperini for his congregation to care for the poor, the oratorio is one of the three churches of Lucca in Baroque style, richly decorated yet elegant and luminous. Back then, it was not as lavish: the paintings date back to the second half of the 1600's and the frescoes were painted by Lombardi in the early 1700's. It is truly a secret gem of Lucca, very spiritual and theatrical at the same time.
Run or bike the walls
A great way to start the day is to do as locals do, and work out on the city walls. Actually, local doctors still regularly prescribe a certain number of loops to walk to the Lucchese in need for exercise! More than a pleasant park, these walls are one of the main reasons why Lucca could remain independent for most of its history and has become a rarity in Tuscany (most defensive walls were destroyed over time to expand cities). They are its third defensive walls, built during the 15th and 16th centuries.
In the early 19th century, after Napoleon annexed Italy to France, he put his sister Elisa in charge of Lucca. She improved infrastructure, social organizations and supported the arts and has remained one of the most beloved people in the city. She decided to plant trees on top of the city walls making it a lovely promenade. Walking around town in the shade of these place trees has remained a local's favourite activity. Running or biking the four kilometres of walls passing by bastions and over gates offers nice views on the city and a slice of local life.
By bastion San Paolino, an incredible underground space allows you to go from within the city to outside of its walls.
Stand Up Paddling (SUP) the Serchio River
Easily accessible from Lucca, stand up paddling the Serchio River is a surprising activity that allows you to not only refresh but also explore the waterway that made the tower town a transport hub since the Roman times. From two hours to multiple days to reach the sea, floating down the translucent Serchio River in a guided Stand Up Paddle outing is an exhilarating adventure thanks to a few rapids and swimming spots. Both beginners (you can easily conquer them on your knees) and experienced stand up paddlers can have fun, taming the rapids either on their knees or standing on the inflatable boards designed for white waters.
Biking to Torre del Lago
To mix culture and sports, biking to Torre del Lago to visit Puccini's villa is a good option. Start in the city, and go to the Via Francigena, one of the most important routes of the Middle Ages connecting Rome to Canterbury, and making Lucca an important stop for pilgrims. It follows the Serchio River before you have to cross it. Past a few villages, go through the agricultural lands, past sunflower and bean fields along man-made irrigation canals. Notice the traditional fishing houses with their nets. You will have to merge onto the road for a couple of kilometres before reaching Puccini's villa on the bank of the Massaciuccoli Lake where he used to love hunting. The way back is similar (refer to the interactive map below for the GPS track).
White-water adventures
At the foot of the Appennine Mountains, it is only half an hour from Lucca that you will find streams, waterfalls and canyons to have great white-water fun for all!
To take a break from the churches and museums and refresh, put on a wetsuit, get yourself strapped in a harness and repel down the Rio Selvano to explore Italy's fifth most beautiful canyon.
The Lima River is another option to try rafting, pack rafting (a fun activity in a single-person inflatable raft), or an easy Stand Up Paddle on its turquoise spring-waters. If you don't want to get wet, fly over on a beautiful and accessible zipline experience at Canyon Park.
Food to try in Lucca
What food specialties to try?
Tuscans are nicknamed the bean eaters, and Lucchese also love their beans. The traditional spelt soup, flavoured with rosemary and anis, often turns into a spelt salad in the summer.
The tortelli Lucchese are a local ravioli most often filled with a mix of beef and chicken meats with local herbs and eggs.
Bucellato is a local sweet bread with raisins and anis. Most often, it is sliced and toasted to be enjoyed with a red wine as a dessert.
Don't be fooled, the green vegetable pie torta de erbe is not a savoury treat! It is a dessert, coloured by spinach or other green veggies, but it is sweet!
Where to taste these Lucchese food specialties?
There are many good options to try these specialties, such as Buca di Sant'Antonio, the oldest restaurant in town. Il Cuore is a caterer and restaurant supplying excellent Garfagnana specialties including certified products (IGP) like Bazzone prosciutto or Bondiola (dry sausage) and cold cuts, and local cheeses. Trattoria da "Leo" is a low-key local's favourite spot.
For breakfast, the pastries of Forno a vapore Amedeo Giusti are always an excellent bet. The Pasticceria Dianda proposes the best pastries in town and the adjacent bar run by the same owners does fantastic espressos and cappuccinos to go with!
For lunch, locals claim that Forno Casali bakes world's best focaccias… A must-try!
Your most rewarding meal in town
Lucca is a fantastic place to learn about Italian and Tuscan food. Starting by selecting seasonal products in the city's small and well supplied food stores, before crafting and tasting a full 4-course traditional meal with an Italian chef will for sure be your most rewarding meal in town! For more details on the full experience, check out this article.
Lucca is a wealthy city with a strong paper industry that does not rely only on tourism. Its narrow medieval streets are lined with rather tasteful and high-end stores, and the municipality does its best to try and keep fast food joints and cheap souvenir shops away. The front of the stores with their signage have been conserved giving a lot of charm to the city. It is not uncommon to walk into a shop that has been trading for over two centuries, like Carli, the oldest jewellery in town run by the same family since the 17th century.
Refresh in a green oasis: the botanic garden or Pfanner's Palace
There is not too much greenery within the city walls of Lucca. The best options are the botanical garden or the lovely garden of the Pfanner Palace. The latter used to be a very popular beer garden. When the duke of Lucca requested a skilled Germanic manufacturer to oversee the beer brewing process, Felix Pfanner arrived from Austria in 1846 and set up the beer house, renting the gardens of the palace. This was almost a first in Italy and the success was such that Pfanner could buy the palace shortly after!
Enjoy Lucca music festivals and first-class concerts & operas
Follow in the footsteps of the maestro and go to a Puccini concert. You may have several options when you visit:
What is a given is that the night you are in Lucca, there will be a concert at the San Giovanni and Reparata Church. Every night, some of the best voices of Italy resonate in the fabulous acoustics of the church in an intimate setting accompanied by a piano. A 14th century fresco representing the Virgin Mary on the throne amongst the saints is also well worth you arriving a bit earlier to visit this millennium-old church (1st century B.C. Roman ruins are found in the church which was built in the 4th century).
The Theatre del Giglio, founded in 1675, was the cultural point of reference all over Tuscany. Check the program, as performances are excellent, and attending a lyrical music show in the classical decor of the historical theatre with a full orchestra is a very special experience.
The Puccini festival in Torre del Lago takes place every summer. Operas are performed on an open-air stage a stone's throw away from Puccini's villa.
Stay in the footsteps of Puccini
Puccini used to come to play and entertain important guests at the Albergo San Martino when he was a young man. The 16th-century pension became a brothel in the 18th century along Via del Bordelo. It operated until 1958 when the Merlin law forced all brothels to close in Italy, and was converted back into a hotel.
Today, you can stay in this 3-star hotel within the city walls in one of the rooms named after some of the ladies who used to work here.
To stay close to the action, the Albergo San Martino is a good bet and will put you in the footsteps of the most famous Lucchese, Giacomo Puccini.
Check out this interactive map for the specific details to help you plan your trip and more articles and photos (zoom out) about the area! Here is a short tutorial to download it.
For more around Lucca:
55100 Lucques, Italie
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This entry was posted in Italy and tagged architecture, art, discover authentic Tuscany, history, museum, off the beaten path, photography, travel, what to do in Lucca. Bookmark the permalink.
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The start of the Grand tour is in náměstí Republiky Square Nr. 5 in front of the Municipal House. Please, see the map bellow.
What is not included in the price: additional entrance fee, charity contribution to the churches etc, nevertheless the Grand tour doesn't require any special costs.
We have prepared for you also shorter version of Grand Tour - 3 hours walking.


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Musician, Performer
Ray Charles has been called "the genius of soul," a true pioneer of American soul music. The Albany, Georgia-born musical prodigy, blind since the age of 7, defied formidable odds to become one of the foremost icons in the history of modern American music.
Born Ray Charles Robinson in 1930, after his family moved to Greenville, Florida (near Tallahassee) Charles was soon enrolled at a state-supported school for the deaf and blind in St. Augustine, Florida, in 1937. During his eight years there, Charles received a formal music education, mastered Braille and learned to play piano, organ, clarinet, trumpet and saxophone. On summer breaks, he occasionally entertained relatives in Tallahassee's black district, known as Frenchtown.
At 15, he left school to join the South's so-called "chitlin' circuit, performing at gigs throughout the south, mostly in black dance halls in Orlando, Tampa and Jacksonville, where he lived briefly. In Tampa, he played for a southern band called The Florida Playboys, wearing his signature sunglasses for the first time. It was in Tampa that he made his first three recordings.
In 1948, Charles left Florida for Seattle, Washington, to pursue better opportunities in music. There he met 14-year-old Quincy Jones, and the two developed what would become a close personal and professional relationship for the rest of Charles' life.
Charles soon dropped his last name "Robinson," mainly to avoid popular confusion, since boxer Sugar Ray Robinson had become a household name in the U.S. He soon landed a record contract and moved to Los Angeles with a newly formed group, the McSon Trio. It was with this trio that a recording first brought Charles into the national spotlight. In 1951, the single "Baby Let Me Hold Your Hand" jumped to #5 on the nation's R&B chart.
The 1950s was a decade of phenomenal success for Charles. First signed to Atlantic Records, he scored his first No. 1 hit with "I Got a Woman," a song that combined elements of gospel music with blues. The wildly popular recording spawned a new musical genre that eventually would become known as soul music. Charles ended the decade on a high note with the single "What'd I Say." The song topped the R&B chart in 1959 and was Charles' first cross-over hit.
The 1960s brought a string of smash hits, many of which not only became Charles' all-time signature songs, but also were unprecedented blends of soul, blues, jazz and country western sounds. Such hits as "Georgia on My Mind," "Hit the Road Jack," "You Don't Know Me," and "Crying Time," ably demonstrated Charles' extraordinary grasp of the full range of American pop music.
When he died (of liver cancer) in 2002, Ray Charles had conquered not only the music world, but also a 20-year addiction to drugs. His legacy—underscored by a dozen Grammy Awards, three Emmy nominations, inductions into the Rock, Jazz and Rhythm and Blues halls of fame, among a long list of other honors—is generally regarded as an essential and indelible element in the bedrock of American pop music.
On the eve of his death, Hollywood paid its own tribute with Ray, a film depicting Charles' life. The movie starred Jamie Foxx, whose portrayal of Charles won him the 2004 Academy Award for Best Actor. Charles got the chance to work with the film's director, but died before the film's debut in 2004. He is buried in Los Angeles.
Artist website - http://www.raycharles.com/


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Métal, Replicapromo, Thefunkgarage
THE FUNK GARAGE/ Nouveau Label du groupe MASCOT RECORDS ( En collaboration avec Bootsy Collins )
Première signature du label : Maceo Parker
MASCOT LABEL GROUP ANNOUNCES NEW FUNK LABEL WITHB BOOTSYCOLLINS IN A SPECIAL ROLE
The legendary Maceo Parker is the funk label's first signing
(New York, New York) – Mascot Label Group, the leading music company known for rock, blues and metal, is adding a funk label to its expanding umbrella. The new imprint, The Funk Garage, will exist alongside other Mascot labels such as Mascot Records, Provogue, Music Theories Recordings, Cool Green Recordings and The Players Club. Funk pioneer Bootsy Collins will play a leading role in finding and shepherding projects for the new company.
The imprint's first signing is the legendary funk and soul jazz saxophonist Maceo Parker, known for his work with James Brown and Parliament-Funkadelic. Parker is releasing his next full-length album via Funk Garage / Mascot Label Group later this year.
"Funk music and especially funky guitars have been at the roots of my love for the instrument," said Mascot CEO Ed Van Zijl. "The Funk Garage is a natural new kid in the family to me. To have the grandmaster of funk Bootsy Collins on our side is simply fantastic! Can't wait to get started!!"
"We're psyched to be collaborating with Bootsy, the legendary Funk icon on the launch of our new Funk-centric imprint, The Funk Garage!" said Mascot Label Group US President Ron Burman. "Expect some Funkalicious music very soon!"
Rising to prominence with James Brown in the early 1970s, and later with Parliament-Funkadelic, Collins' driving bass guitar and humorous vocals established him as one of the leading names in funk. He is a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, inducted in 1997 with 15 other members of Parliament-Funkadelic. "I'm so Funked up about starting this adventure with Mascot as an A&R funk/garage man," said Collins. "Ed and I share the same vision of bringing music to people with this partnership. This is only the beginning of a very personal & funked up P-Lationship to share with the World!"
Mascot Label Group is a 100% independent record company that specializes in guitar-oriented music, specifically in the rock, metal, and blues genres. The company has offices in New York, London, Paris, Milan, Cologne, Stockholm and Rotterdam (headquarters).
Artists on the Mascot Label Group roster and in the catalogue: Bootsy Collins, Joe Bonamassa, Volbeat, Beth Hart, Black Stone Cherry, Robert Randolph & The Family Band, Ynwie Malmsteen, Ayreon, Robert Cray, Shaman's Harvest, George Benson, Eric Johnson, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Sonny Landreth, Quinn Sullivan, P.O.D., Eric Gales, Crobot, 10 Years, Jake Shimabakuro, Hollis Brown, King Solomon Hicks, DeWolff, Gov't Mule, Paul Gilbert, Kris Barras, Black Country Communion, Masters of Reality, Johnny Lang, Walter Trout, Black Label Society, Warren Haynes, Flying Colors, and Steve Lukather


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Who Decides? Competing Narratives in Constructing Tastes, Consumption and Choice explores how tastes are shaped, formed, delineated and acted upon by normalising socio-cultural processes, and, in some instances, how those very processes are actively resisted and renegotiated.


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Scandic Arlandastad Opens Its Doors
Scandic Arlandastad has now opened following an agreement that Scandic signed in November 2020 to take over the hotel. With 150 rooms featuring Scandinavian design with natural, light-colored wood and textiles in a subdued palette, Arlandastad is next door to Arlanda Airport and counts the Scandinavian XPO international meeting and event center among its neighbors.
Located in the fast-growing Arlanda Airport City, Scandic Arlandastad is the first hotel in the Swedish market that Scandic has opened in close proximity to one of Swedavia's airports. The hotel, which was originally opened in November 2016 by another hotel operator, has now been rebranded as a Scandic hotel and is now ready to welcome guests from all corners of the world, regardless of whether they are about to start a journey or work in the local area.
– For some time, we've wanted to establish ourselves at or in close proximity to Arlanda Airport. As we've now found a good solution together with the property owner through a revenue-based lease with a reasonable distribution of risk and a hotel in great condition, it's a good investment for us to make, says Peter Jangbratt, Head of Sweden at Scandic Hotels.
At Scandic Arlandastad, guests will be able to get a head start on their holiday by gathering their travel companions to enjoy themselves in a calm, comfortable hotel environment before ending the day by relaxing in the sauna. The next day, when it's time to leave for Arlanda Airport, guests will be able to take the free shuttle bus that stops outside the hotel entrance.
– I am very pleased that for a long time to come, Scandic Arlandastad will be an important part of strengthening Scandic's position in the Greater Stockholm area and a key component in the business development around Arlanda Airport City. Above all, I look forward to welcoming new and returning guests to a new Scandic Arlandastad, says Petra Lindholm, General Manager at Scandic Arlandastad.
As at all Scandic hotels, accessibility is in focus at Scandic Arlandastad and 18 of the hotel's 150 rooms have been specially designed as accessible rooms with a dedicated handicapped parking space. During the summer of 2021, Scandic Arlandastad will be tested to comply with the new, strict environmental and climate requirements of the Nordic region's official environmental certification, the Nordic Swan Ecolabel. In total, 83 of Scandic's 85 Swedish hotels have Nordic Swan Ecolabel certification.
Scandic Hotels Sweden
Ramada Encore to Open in Central Kathmandu
Holiday Inn to Open in Riyadh
Marriott to Open Nearly 100 Properties in Asia Pacific
Marriott International continues to expand its portfolio, expecting to open 100 properties in Asia Pacific in 2021, bringing more brands and experiences to new destinations for guests across the region. In 2020, the...
IHG signs agreement for Holiday Inn Jeddah Corniche
IHG Hotels & Resorts has signed a Management Agreement with Saleh Alsalamah and Partner Companies, to open Holiday Inn Jeddah Corniche. Having signed Holiday Inn Riyadh Al Malaz last year with the same partner, this...
Accor Unveils New Hotel Openings
Accor is kicking off the year with an encouraging development outlook and a full schedule of new hotel openings around the world. While 2020 was a year of unprecedented challenges – not the least of which were felt...


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Canada's Western Financial Acquires Ontario Brokerage EGM Insurance Group
Western Financial Group has furthered its strategic expansion in Ontario with the acquisition of EGM Insurance Group.
Financial details of the acquisition, which is Western's third brokerage acquisition in Ontario, were not disclosed.
Pembroke, Ontario-based EGM had its roots as a family business in 1942. It now operates with four branches and has two subsidiaries, MC Carroll Insurance Brokers and Johnston & Mackie Ltd., serving residents and businesses in the Petawawa and Pembroke areas.
"We're thrilled to welcome EGM CEO Lisa Edmonds and her team," said Kenny Nicholls, Western's CEO and president. "This acquisition offers us further abilities to grow our customer broker model in Ontario."
Edmonds said joining Western is a great opportunity for the EGM Insurance Group and its customers. "I am excited to know the strength of Western's people – their experience, resources and stability – will take us to the next level while allowing us to serve our customers in our local community."
About Western Financial Group
Headquartered in High River, Alberta, Western provides personal and business insurance services through 183 locations, its affiliates and a variety of connected channels, with a team of more than 1,800 people. Western is a subsidiary of Trimont Financial Ltd., a subsidiary of The Wawanesa Mutual Insurance Company.
Source: Western Financial Group
Canada's Western Financial Group Acquires Ontario Broker, Axion Insurance
Study: Masks, Distancing, Testing Shown As Effective As Vaccines on College Campuses
Categories: International NewsTopics: 2019 M&A, Agents & Brokers, Business Moves & Mergers, Canadian market, EGM Insurance Group, Western Financial Group


JohnstonGreer was established in 2006 and is a leading recruiter within the Financial Services and Insurance sectors. The company is continuing recent expansion with the appointment of a Consultant for our Edinburgh location to develop the growing FinTech and InsurTech market locally in Scotland and UK wide.
You will be responsible for driving new business development, candidate attraction, relationship building with new and existing clients, target achievement and the ongoing management of the recruitment process.
The successful candidate will be an existing Technology recruiter interested in building a new desk within a smaller business whilst taking advantage of a wider remit than your current employer. You will have excellent communication skills and the ambition required in a business with progressive growth plans.


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I'm a Colorado native. I grew up in rural South Eastern Colorado. My grandfather was an undersheriff in Kansas and two of my older brothers went into law enforcement. From an early age I wanted to be a peace officer. I specifically pursued being a sheriff's deputy, appreciating the history of the office and the fact that it was not simply another government department. The office of Sheriff is a statutory office having exclusive powers under state law. It is a public office with a right, and corresponding duty, to exercise public trust. I have been honored, throughout my career, to be associated with many honorable Sheriffs who mentored me and prepared me to be a Sheriff who honors the public trust.
My wife, Bobbi, is the Director of the Senior Coalition and works very hard to serve our seniors. My daughter, Ruby, is a freshman in High School and my son, John, is in Middle School.
I have traveled the United States, and have enjoyed the beauty and hospitality of other states. None compare to the natural beauty experienced right out my front door. I have made Park County my home for over 30 years. I appreciate small town living, our community, and the environment it offers to raise a family.
My family and I are part of this community. Park County is my home. Since my departure the Park County Sheriff's Office has had increased difficulty retaining staff and managing resources. Community programs that were previously strong and vital have been struggling or canceled altogether. Communication has become closed. The office has lost Public Trust. Our community deserves better. Many in our community have encouraged me to run, and expressed that it is time for a change . I look forward to bringing the change that is desired. It's time for honesty and integrity through accountability and transparency.
02/15/2016 "People's Choice Award for Runner-up Best Local Law Enforcement Officer." Editor Emily Clingman, Park County Republican & Fairplay Flume Newspaper.
02/15/2015 "People's Choice Award for Best Local Law Enforcement Officer." Editor Emily Clingman, Park County Republican & Fairplay Flume Newspaper.
9/27/2006 Sheriff's Commendation Medal for performing above and beyond your normal scope of duties and for your activities and achievements on September 27, 2006 Sheriff Fred Wegener.
7/4/2005 Special Leadership Award for dedication and outstanding dedication & contribution to his fellow employees & community. Park County Employee Advisory Committee.


JC269-Love at First Bite, is an elegant white & red 2 piece gown set. Beautiful red satin sweetheart bodice which is accented with red metallic flower sequins & red glass beads. And, a red ribbon bow for that halter type look. The skirt is made from a lovely white satin fabric, and a white & red soft tulle overlay. (The white overlay has the red wash look.) The hemline of the gown overlay has been outlined in beautiful red scalloped lace.
One single red rose bud is also included in this set.
The doll modeling in the photo is a Mary S makeover artist doll!


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Home > Franchise profiles
Franchise profiles
Auditel: The franchise opportunity
Startups catches up with the independent cost management chain to find out how it "lays the foundation for franchisees to succeed"...
by Megan Dunsby
Updated: Aug 23, 2018 Published: Jul 2, 2014
Franchise: Auditel
Description: Cost management franchise
Started in: 1994
Founder: Chris Allison
No. of franchises: 200+
Coverage: Throughout UK & Ireland
Average cost per franchise: £37,950 plus VAT as of 1st January 2015 (training for two people). Initial capital required: circa £20,000
Website: www.auditelfranchise.co.uk
Established by Chris Allison in 1994, Auditel was originally a licencing operation which trained people in utility bill auditing, but in 1997, it was launched as a true business format franchise. Allison developed the offering to include the management of all utility services including communications, and over the past 20 years it has expanded to over 100 cost areas and over 200 franchisees.
Moving into franchising
So how did Auditel move into franchising?
The original thinking in 1994 was to license the Auditel format and provide it as a consultancy service by licenced operators. Three years later, Chris Allison saw an opportunity. Allison says:
"We decided it could be franchised as the business model was simple to implement. In addition, it would be more trouble-free to maintain consistency and uniformity in a franchised network, rather than the looser form of a licensed operation.
"We'd seen a niche open up, thanks to the deregulation in the energy markets, which was offering businesses more choice but also meant decision making for them."
Where did the business open its first franchises?
West Sussex, Newport and Norwich.
How successful were those original franchisees?
Very successful. Those franchisees, and many others, have renewed their franchise agreements.
The franchise opportunity
What makes the franchise different / unique?
Over the years, Auditel has achieved a recognisable and respected brand in the field of cost management which has enabled franchisees to develop their individual businesses. This success has been attained through constant efforts to leverage the brand in the public and private sectors through sponsorships, memberships, awards and exceptional savings for our clients.
Auditel is a pioneer of ethical and sustainable cost management. Its unique 'Total Cost of Purchase ®' approach reveals an unprecedented and detailed level of management data to make accurate, informed decisions for the long term. This sets us apart from those firms which only produce short term savings and which may have repercussions later.
The value of the brand is enhanced by the unrivalled levels of training and support provided to our franchisees by our team of 20 members. We believe we possess the most extensive knowledge bank and state-of-the-art marketing activities in our industry. As a result of ongoing investment, innovation, implementation and improvement, we have created an environment which fosters trust and lays the foundations for each of our franchisees to succeed.
"Any business not using the Auditel service may be placing itself at a disadvantage"- Pizza Express, (where more than £4m has been saved by Auditel).
Our consultants provide ongoing cost management. Many organisations acknowledge that this is a vital function and they understand the benefits of outsourcing this mission-critical task.
How big is the market opportunity?
There are 400,000 potential clients, of which Auditel has currently 3,700.
How many franchisees do you have today?
200+.
How is the brand marketed?
Through our own corporate website.
Direct marketing by over 200 consultants with web-based and printed marketing deliverables.
Lead generation via specialist agencies.
Intensive social media.
Surveys by business magazines, regular press releases and franchisees' microsites.
How do you divide the regions?
There are no discrete areas. A consultant is able to market UK or Ireland wide. The intranet records a note of prospects and clients which is regularly updated. It indicates that contact should not be made until the information is withdrawn after a set timescale.
The perfect franchisee
What do you look for in potential franchisees?
Auditel's franchisees are senior management professionals looking for a fresh challenge with high earning potential and great training and support. They have come from careers in many sectors including manufacturing, public sector, finance and banking, IT, insurance, HM forces and marketing. Candidates need strong communication skills, the ability to deal with senior business owners and managers, an inquisitive mind and the drive and determination to succeed.
So do franchisees work from an office, or are they home-based? Is it part-time or full-time?
Most work from home, but many grow their business, take on staff and move to an office. It is a full-time occupation.
How are franchisees vetted?
After the initial enquiry, candidates are invited to an informal free 'Discovery Seminar'. If they wish to pursue the opportunity, they are invited to a personal interview with the managing director and to meet the senior managers. They can discuss what they are seeking and what the franchise has to offer. If both sides feel comfortable and wish to continue the discussion, further visits can be arranged, a business plan agreed and the franchise agreement provided to study.
What do you offer franchisees who sign-up?
A five-year award-winning mentoring programme which includes:
Sales and marketing training.
Lead generation.
Technical training courses and bespoke tendering tools.
Business reviews and career development.
Ongoing seminars and workshops.
Regional and local meetings.
Annual national conference.
Annual supplier exhibition.
Our unique Auditel business management system.
Unlimited access to Auditel coaches, trainers and mentors.
Plus, everything needed to run a profitable and satisfying business.
How much do franchisees pay and what are the ongoing franchise fees?
The franchise fee is £37,950. The ongoing management service fee is 12.5% of gross income.
Success and growth
How successful are some of the franchisees today?
The majority of franchisees renew their franchises after five, 10 and now 15 years due to consistently achieving their financial goals and the quality of life they want for themselves and their families.
The average earnings of full-time Auditel consultants with established business practices are over £100,000, while some make over £200,000.
How is the brand looking to grow?
To realise the full potential of the Auditel network in the UK and Ireland, we want to grow to 250 franchisees in the near future. We shall increase our client base and continue to develop the capability of managing both the smaller and larger accounts. We aim to retain our position as the premier consultancy in our core discipline of cost management.
What is the potential of the business?
There are over 400,000 potential clients in the UK and Ireland who could use our service. Currently we have just over 3,700 clients so there is a wealth of business available for our consultants.
What will the challenges be in achieving that?
We are not really threatened by price comparison sites or brokers. The biggest competition can be the clients themselves! They may think that they have already achieved a cost reduction exercise and so they question the need to use us. We sit down with them and, by asking the right questions, demonstrate how we could be augmenting what they are already doing. Our franchisees are marketing our services energetically and turnover increases year on year.
What awards has the business won?
Auditel has been recognised over a number of years for providing significant support to their franchisees.
Notably:
Winner of the bfa HSBC Franchisor of the Year Award for Franchisee Support 2012.
Finalist in the bfa HSBC Franchisor of the Year in 2010 and 2011.
Finalist in the Franchise Marketing Awards for 5 years covering Best Franchisee Marketing Support and Best Website.
To what extent are the founders involved today?
Ongoing involvement. Chris Allison is the managing director and is especially involved in selecting excellent and enthusiastic candidates.
Finally, is the company a British Franchise Association (BFA) member?
Yes, full membership since 1998.


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The hatchery chinook fishery in central and northern Puget Sound opens July 16.