Latest news with #Japa
National Post
10 hours ago
- Lifestyle
- National Post
Home design: Simplicity by the lake
Article content Sustain Design Architects' clean, unfussy work on a Kawarthas lakeside house created both a woodsy getaway for its owners, a place to welcome friends up from the city and, until recently, an idyllic year-round work-from-home space. Article content According to SDA principal architect Cathy Garrido, the clients bought the property in the summer of 2020. One section had already been cleared, with plenty of open space for a cottage, parking and a wide waterfront area suitable for landscaping, plus beachfront at the waterside. It also backed onto an environmentally protected area and was surrounded by mature woods, which gave it privacy from neighbouring cottages. It was perfect for a secluded hideaway far from the stress of the city. Article content Article content Article content The clients' original plan, says Garrido, was to build a summer cottage while retaining a Toronto pied à terre downtown. Their wish list included comfortable spots where friends could stay, a private space for themselves, a home office for the husband, who works in the finance sector, and a studio workspace for the wife, a graphic designer. Article content But as the house came together, she recalls — this was the pandemic summer of 2020, after all — they decided to pull up stakes and move there permanently. This inspired a design that would be relaxed and cottagey but with a certain urbanity. Article content Half-hidden around a leafy bend and set in a roomy clearing, the house is organized into two wings set at a right angle to each other, conjoined by a side-lit front door and two-storey breezeway. Article content 'A breezeway is just a nicer alternative to a regular foyer,' notes Garrido, 'and the windows give you the first glimpse of the surrounding woods and water.' The breezeway also provides the first hint that the house, despite being generally clean and spare, still has a few architectural tricks up its sleeve. Article content Article content The main floor of the breezeway connects the garage and the wife's studio workspace to the main living area. From one end to the other, about a third of the width of the ceiling is brightened by what appears to be a skylight, supported by exposed Douglas fir joists. It's only later, when you explore the upper level, that you discover the breezeway 'skylight' is actually a reinforced glass floor, CN Tower-style. It's sturdy enough to walk on, assuming you have the nerve — Garrido laughs and says she doesn't — and brings in additional light from the windows on the second floor, brightening both levels. Article content Back on the main floor, much of the left wing is a large open-plan space combining the kitchen, dining and living area, brightened by two enormous banks of sliding glass doors topped by transoms, framing a spectacular view of the lake. It's a big room, but it's neither cavernous nor cold: rich, primarily natural materials and tones — taupe kitchen cabinetry, white oak plank floors and simple, Japandi-flavoured furnishings — make the view and the abundant sunlight the main focus.
NZ Herald
2 days ago
- Sport
- NZ Herald
Formula 1: Liam Lawson lands vital punch in Red Bull battle with Isack Hadjar
But in the battle to return to Red Bull after his two-race demotion, Lawson has done himself a world of good in Belgium. Here's what we learned at Spa-Francorchamps. The fightback begins While the narrative of Lawson v Hadjar plays out each week, we hadn't actually seen it on track until Belgium. Now that we have, though, you'd have to award it to the Kiwi in straight sets. You cannot argue that Hadjar has, without question, outperformed Lawson over the course of their time together in 2025. He has five points finishes to Lawson's three, and is still six clear in the drivers' championship. Recency bias, though, sides with the Kiwi. Since Monaco, Lawson has scored all 16 of his points, while Hadjar has managed 15. In fact, Hadjar hasn't scored a point since Spain, before Lawson outperformed him in Austria, before Belgium. Make no mistake, this is not the end of the battle between Lawson and Hadjar by any means. The 20-year-old has been a revelation at Racing Bulls, and has done all the right things to take his career to another level next year. The pair share a very close relationship, with Lawson widely understood to have taken on a mentoring role for his younger teammate. But in a sport where results speak louder than anything else, Lawson's recent results over Hadjar make for very good reading in the race to possibly step into Red Bull next year. Bragging rights Lawson's overtake on his teammate came at the same time as the crossover from wet to slick tyres. Getting ahead when he did set Lawson up as Racing Bulls' lead car, and gave him the first pit stop as a result. Had he not pulled that off, Lawson would have been forced to stay out for one lap longer, and lose any chance of a points finish. In Melbourne, the first of Lawson's two races with Red Bull, the opposite occurred, and the Kiwi was left out on slick tyres when he needed to pit for intermediates, only to spin out as Max Verstappen was preferred. In football, the adage is that these things tend to even out over the course of a season. And while not necessarily 100% the same, it's good to see a bit of fortune finally fall Lawson's way for once. Hope for Yuki? A 12th-place finish in the grand prix might not stand out as a season-saving result, but there were very good signs for Red Bull's Yuki Tsunoda over the course of the weekend. Like Lawson before him, Tsunoda has struggled to come to grips with Red Bull's RB21, a car that only Verstappen seems to be able to get the best out of. But having seen Red Bull team principal Christian Horner sacked in the two-week break between Silverstone and Spa-Francorchamps, Tsunoda could stand to benefit more than anyone else. Horner's replacement, Laurent Mekies, is Tsunoda's former boss with Racing Bulls and AlphaTauri. And with that familiar figure, the Japanese driver managed his best qualifying position of seventh. Tsunoda's future is by no means secure. His links to Honda will almost certainly mean his exit at the end of the year, when the Japanese engine supplier leaves Red Bull for Aston Martin. However, if Mekies' presence at Red Bull gives him any kind of lift, Lawson and Hadjar could have company in their fight for that second seat. Lawson silences Saubers Since Spain, Sauber have quietly become Formula One's dark horse. Under the guidance of former Red Bull sporting director Jonathan Wheatley, the soon-to-be Audi team are on course for their biggest points haul in years. Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto have together scored 43 points to climb to sixth in the constructors' championship, two clear of Racing Bulls in seventh. That total could arguably have been more, were it not for running into Lawson at Spa. After his first and only pitstop, Lawson emerged ahead of Hulkenberg, fresh from his first podium at Silverstone. The German veteran had plenty of opportunity to get around the Kiwi, but couldn't manage, and even saw his teammate demand to let him by to have his own crack at Lawson. It made no difference, as Lawson held off Bortoleto for the rest of the race. Lawson's junior categories were highlighted by his aggressive nature. This season, though, we've seen his defence come to the fore. Given more time, Lawson should begin to cash in on the promise that Red Bull saw, and give their second seat to, after just 11 grands prix. One to go Even though we've just had a two-week break between Britain and Belgium, Formula One is readying up for the final race of the first block of the season. Next week's race in Hungary is the last before the month-long summer break, giving teams the chance to reset. However, there is still a race to get through. The Hungaroring is a tough circuit, with plenty of low speed corners for drivers to navigate, while Hungary's high temperatures make it a challenge for drivers to navigate wear on their tyres. For Lawson, there's no shortage of past experience. Through Formula Three and Formula Two, he's raced there six times all up. His best result, though, is a sixth-place, achieved in 2022. Three years on, though, Lawson is a much better driver than he was in his F2 days, and will hopefully be able to continue on the trajectory he's heading into the summer with. Alex Powell is a sports journalist for the NZ Herald. He has been a sports journalist since 2016.
CNBC
7 days ago
- Business
- CNBC
CCTV Script 21/07/2025
Many analysts have pointed out that the issue of "inflation" has become a key focus for Japanese voters in the Upper House Election. In June, Japan's core CPI, excluding fresh food, rose by 3.3% year-on-year, significantly exceeding the Bank of Japan's 2% target. Additionally, although the price of rice has declined from its year-on-year surge of 101.7% in May, it remains at a high three-digit level. "The whole election is about inflation. People are hopping mad about the size of the inflation at the moment, rice is up 100.2% year on year. Japan has just had its biggest wage hike since 1991 and the whole of that has been washed away by the rise in inflation." In response to the rising prices, the ruling coalition led by Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and the opposition parties have proposed opposing plans. The opposition parties advocate for reducing the consumption tax to alleviate the pressure of rising living costs, while the ruling coalition favors issuing one-time cash subsidies, arguing that this approach is easier to implement quickly. They also emphasize that consumption tax revenue is a crucial source of funding for Japan's social welfare system. It must be acknowledged that this issue is indeed tricky. There is a generational divide among the Japanese public regarding whether to lower the consumption tax. Recent polls by Nikkei and Tokyo Broadcasting System show that younger Japanese are more inclined to support tax cuts, while older generations prefer maintaining the status quo to safeguard social welfare. The current unfavorable election prospects for Japan's ruling party could also impact U.S.-Japan trade negotiations. Prime Minister Ishiba is facing widespread skepticism both within and outside his party, raising doubts about whether he can fulfill the commitments on the trade talks with the U.S. Analysts point out that under the current circumstances, Japan is unlikely to secure a favorable position in trade talks with the United States. For example, U.S. President Trump has been pushing for Japan to further increase its imports of American rice. However, analysis indicates that Japan currently allows a maximum of 770,000 tons of duty-free rice imports annually, nearly half of which already come from the U.S. Therefore, under the existing framework, Japan has limited room to increase the imports further. Any additional concessions would require broad consensus and support within the ruling party. "LDP is now losing the elections. It's not so popular. So which means, at this moment, he's not in a position to make a bold vision to open the country for agriculture products. That's a concern." In addition, experts caution that automobiles are the key battleground in U.S.-Japan trade talks. It's important to note that cars and auto parts account for as much as 80% of Japan's trade surplus with the U.S. If the U.S. imposes tariffs on Japan's automotive industry, it could severely impact Japan's car exports, thereby affecting Japan's overall exports and the domestic economy. Analysts also point out that, regardless of whether Prime Minister Ishiba remains in office, Japan may face dual challenges in both politics and the economy in the future. '…if Ishiba survives, you have a crisis Because you have a leader who really has lost the confidence of the public and lost the confidence of much of much of his own party, and isn't able to get anything through the diet. But even if you get a new leader, and you get maybe an expanded coalition, you're still not looking at, you know, it's going to be a weak they're going to be dealing with a real, you know, potentially serious economic blow."
Business Insider
04-07-2025
- Business
- Business Insider
How our relentless investment in talent development makes Polo Luxury a great place to work
In Nigeria's corporate landscape, where attracting and retaining high-quality talents is a major challenge owing to several factors including increased trend of 'Japa', (the mass migration of skilled professionals leaving Nigeria for better opportunities abroad) that has further worsened talent retention and created a fiercely competitive talent market, Polo Luxury Group continues to stand out, not just as a leading voice for true luxury but as an employer of choice in Nigeria as attested by the Great Place to Work Certification. This recognition earned by Polo Luxury Group for the second consecutive year goes beyond mere accolades, but is a reflection of its watchword: excellence begins from within. At Polo, employees are not just team members; they are the brand's foremost ambassadors and driving force behind our success. By empowering our employees and leveraging their voices as the foremost brand ambassadors, we are more trusted as a brand with over 35 years of experience delivering exceptional service to our discerning clientele and advancing humanity. For organisations, the focus is no longer just about recruitment; it is about placing a premium on employees' well-being, fostering inclusive workplace cultures, building a sustainable reward system, and offering tangible growth opportunities that can rival global options to encourage long-term employee loyalty. But what truly sets Polo apart isn't just its unrivalled portfolio; it's the people behind the brand. At every touchpoint, from boutique floors to boardroom strategy sessions, Polo's culture of excellence is driven by passionate individuals committed to the highest standards of service and integrity. At Polo, career development is not a catchphrase; it is a clearly defined path. The organisation has embedded growth into its very blueprint, providing employees with access to all-expense-paid training, structured mentorships, and targeted upskilling programmes that ensure they remain aligned with the fast-evolving global luxury landscape. From sales associates to senior managers, every team member is equipped with the tools not just to perform but to excel, as they are empowered through initiatives like the Polo Academy, where the company invests heavily in shaping new employees into confident, brand-aligned professionals. Through immersive training modules, mentorship opportunities, and continuous learning programmes, Polo ensures that each individual embodies the sophistication, knowledge, and service excellence that define the brand. This deliberate focus on internal capacity-building not only enhances individual growth but also reinforces Polo's reputation as the benchmark for luxury experience in West Africa. This commitment to excellence is matched by Polo's approach to employee compensation. With an awareness of the shifting economic realities of modern life, the company offers a robust, industry-leading remuneration structure. Salaries are regularly benchmarked and reviewed in response to inflation and market trends. Employees also benefit from performance-based rewards, 13th-month bonuses, healthcare packages, and access to the company's services such as staff buses and subsidised luxury products, all of which are tangible demonstrations of Polo's dedication to staff welfare. Beyond compensation, the essence of Polo's workplace culture is rooted in respect, inclusion, and collaboration. Whether in the boutiques, at headquarters, or within leadership ranks, teamwork is not just encouraged, it is deeply ingrained. Every voice is heard and valued, and the intentional inclusivity within the organisation seamlessly translates into the elevated experiences clients encounter across touchpoints. More than just a place of employment, Polo is a genuine support system for its people. Employees enjoy balanced working hours, access to comprehensive healthcare, extending to family members, and a welfare structure designed to promote mental, emotional, and physical well-being. This culture of care reflects the brand's understanding that luxury must begin from within. Polo's leadership is a distinguishing force behind its sustained success. Forward-thinking yet deeply empathetic, the executive team leads with clarity, conviction, and compassion. Known for its transparency and open-door policy, management consistently demonstrates the courage to act on feedback, driving a culture of trust, innovation, and accountability across all departments. Recognition, at Polo, is not episodic; it is embedded in the company's daily rhythm. From routine performance appraisals and festive gift packages to internal shout-outs and monthly team celebrations, employees are consistently reminded that their contributions matter. This culture of appreciation fuels performance and fosters a shared commitment to excellence. These values and practices are not just aspirational—they are validated. Polo's Great Place to Work®️ certification is built on over three decades of global benchmarking and research. The results are compelling: 98% of employees express confidence in management's ability to lead effectively; 94% affirm fair treatment of individuals regardless of race; and 96% rate the company's customer service as exceptional. These numbers are more than statistics—they are proof that Polo's people-first philosophy is working, and that the brand's internal culture is as refined, resilient, and remarkable as the world-class luxury it represents. As we push new boundaries and set fresh standards, Polo Luxury is poised to become what we envision: the Burj Khalifa of African luxury—a towering, unmissable symbol of sophistication, ambition, and excellence. And at the heart of it all? Our people are the bedrock of our promise and the architects of our future.
Yahoo
26-05-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Shohei Ohtani's 22-pitch BP session — that included a 97 mph offering — created a buzz: 'The stuff is there'
NEW YORK — At 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, Shohei Ohtani climbed a big league hill for the first time in 614 days. It wasn't in front of a sold-out crowd. The Citi Field gates hadn't even opened. There were no fielders. The catcher called balls and strikes. His opponents were a pair of rookie teammates and a member of the Dodgers coaching staff who hadn't faced professional pitching in nine years. Officially, it was just a live batting practice session, a low-stakes environment for a recovering pitcher to ease back into competition. But because it was Ohtani, the session morphed into a can't-miss event. That it was the three-time MVP's first time pitching against hitters since his second career reconstructive elbow surgery, only added to the anticipation. 'You know, I've gotten so used to seeing him as a hitter,' Dodgers manager Dave Roberts told reporters afterward. 'And so to see him on the mound just solely as a pitcher, it was different. And certainly exciting for all of us.' As Ohtani readied to throw, a gaggle of his teammates assembled together behind a protective net set up near home plate. Dozens more Dodger players, coaches and team employees watched from the dirt track in foul territory down the third-base line. Across the diamond, Mets manager Carlos Mendoza and a handful of his players followed along from the home dugout. Media members, television cameras and photographers dotted the otherwise empty stands, jostling for the best possible view of the show. Only with Ohtani does the mundane feel so momentous. 'It was pretty cool,' Dodgers rookie catcher Dalton Rushing, who struck out in his one at-bat against Ohtani, opined afterward. 'You come out here and you basically have the whole clubhouse sitting here watching him off the mound. It's been a big topic around baseball. Everyone wants to see his first live BP. Glad I could give the people what they wanted to see.' Ohtani threw 22 pitches across five different at-bats. The velocity clocked in at 94-95 miles per hour, although it reached as high as 97, according to pitching coach Mark Prior. Ohtani called upon his entire arsenal: fastball, sinker, cutter, sweeper, splitter. Rookie infielder Hyeseong Kim made solid contact twice, including a firm comebacker into Ohtani's glove on the first plate appearance. Rushing received just one at-bat, a strikeout during which he swung through a dastardly breaking ball. 'The stuff is there,' Prior ensured. Shohei's reactions during live BP. 😂 — Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) May 25, 2025 Dodgers game-planning coach JT Watkins also took two at-bats, adding a touch of levity. Since Ohtani wasn't comfortable facing any of his right-handed hitting teammates at this stage, Watkins, who played minor league ball with the Red Sox, volunteered to stand in. He punched out in his first at-bat, before drawing a walk in his second, much to the delight of the Dodgers assembled. Through it all, Ohtani looked notably at ease. So often the Japanese superstar attacks his craft with an unmistakable seriousness, a fierce intensity. And while he took a deep breath before each pitch, re-calibrating his focus, Ohtani was particularly expressive between his offerings. Happy, borderline giddy, about being back on a mound. Despite this milestone moment, the path forward, for this singular force, remains murky. Asked what would happen next, Prior was understandably vague. 'He's gonna DH tonight, and we're gonna go from there," Prior said. "And then he's gonna play tomorrow. He's gonna DH tomorrow, and we'll go from there, you know?' The stressors and hurdles Ohtani faces in his rehab process are unlike any other player in MLB history. Nobody else has ever attempted to return from elbow surgery while simultaneously providing elite production as a hitter. Ohtani reminded everyone of that outrageous reality a few hours after his bullpen session, when he cranked the second pitch of the evening 411 feet for an upper deck moonshot off Mets starter Kodai Senga. It was the Dodgers' lone run in Sunday's 3-1 defeat. SECOND PITCH OF THE GAME? HELLO, SHOHEI. — Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) May 25, 2025 The reigning MVP is hitting .295/.388/.638 with 18 home runs and 11 steals. Last season, his first as a full-time DH, Ohtani became the first player to blast at least 50 homers and steal at least 50 bags. For a Dodgers team operating with thinner margins than expected, Ohtani's pitching timetable has taken on added importance. But while his pitching would be a welcome boon for a staff depleted by injury, his offense is downright indispensable. The Dodgers have slow-played Ohtani's return to pitching, in large part because they need him to continue hitting. This baseball behemoth has and can withstand a lot; a sustained period without one of the game's most dynamic bats would be a stress test they'd rather avoid. That's what makes the on-mound comeback precarious. The fourth pitch he threw on Sunday was a firm comebacker off Kim's bat that Ohtani coolly snared. It wasn't hit hard enough to be described as dangerous, but the suddenness of the play served as a subtle reminder: The road ahead carries real risk. But only Ohtani could even dare to walk it.
