Latest news with #StuartBrown
Malaysian Reserve
25-06-2025
- Business
- Malaysian Reserve
Guidehouse Launches The Tech Guide 2025
Global professional services firm publishes a roadmap for businesses and government agencies seeking to maximize AI and other critical technologies MCLEAN, Va., June 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — In an era when disruption is the norm, racing to adopt the latest technology isn't enough—leaders need a plan that's focused on strategy and long-term outcomes. That's a central message conveyed in The Tech Guide, a landmark report published today by Guidehouse, a global AI-led professional services firm delivering advisory, technology, and managed services to the commercial and government sectors. Designed for senior leaders in both business and government, The Tech Guide 2025: A Roadmap for Turning Urgency into Advantage is meant to empower decision-makers to translate emerging tech into real-world impact. From AI and cloud infrastructure to data platforms and cybersecurity, the Guide contains actionable insights for maximizing the potential of these core technologies, not just to boost efficiency—a priority the Guide emphasizes is now table-stakes—but to create value and lock in competitive advantage. 'At a time when the pace of change is only accelerating, the winners won't be the ones chasing the newest tools—they'll be the ones who know how to use them strategically,' said Stuart Brown, Guidehouse Technology Leader. 'The Tech Guide cuts through the chaos and delivers a clear path to smarter, faster decisions.' Unlike traditional forecast-focused tech-trend reports, The Tech Guide 2025 is a detailed practical handbook, grounded in up-to-date, real-world insights from senior Guidehouse technology leaders. It's also sector-specific: The Tech Guide gives readers downloadable AI Acceleration Frameworks—concise checklists for fast, safe AI integration for healthcare, energy providers, financial services, and government agencies. Key takeaways: AI is the starting line, not the end of the race: Real advantage comes from integrating AI solutions with resilient cloud infrastructure, robust platforms, and well-governed data to create an adaptable, ever-evolving tech model that's future-ready and fit for purpose. Speed for speed's sake is a risk: The Guide outlines how leaders can avoid common missteps that sacrifice trust and productivity in the name of fast adoption. Government agencies are poised for a big leap forward: New public-private alliances, growing investment from major tech players, and an iterative approach to AI scaling can empower public-sector entities to move at a commercial pace, safely and responsibly. The future is agentic: The Tech Guide points the way forward for tech leaders seeking to understand and leverage autonomous AI agents, which are on the cusp of fundamentally transforming workflows and operations in multiple industries. 'The Tech Guide is about helping leaders step back, refocus, and ask the bigger question—not 'what's next?' but 'what matters most?'' said Karen Odegaard, Guidehouse's AI Leader. 'It's not just about adopting faster—it's about transforming smarter.' The Tech Guide 2025 is now available for download at About Guidehouse Guidehouse is a global AI-led professional services firm delivering advisory, technology, and managed services to the commercial and government sectors. With an integrated business technology approach, Guidehouse drives efficiency and resilience in the healthcare, financial services, energy, infrastructure, and national security markets. Built to help clients across industries outwit complexity, the firm brings together approximately 18,000 professionals to achieve lasting impact and shape a meaningful future. Media Contact: GuidehouseCecile Fradkin cfradkin@
Herald Sun
14-06-2025
- Automotive
- Herald Sun
Ballan local Stuart Brown furious after pothole damage costs him $5000
Don't miss out on the headlines from Victoria. Followed categories will be added to My News. The Herald Sun wasn't much more than an hour into its hunt for Victoria's worst road before stumbling upon the first contender: The state government-owned and operated Western Fwy entry ramp from Geelong-Ballan Rd. The stretch could have qualified as abstract art with its jarring canvas of tar band-aids and divots that forced drivers to grip their wheel tighter as they pushed to 100km/h. Archive map images show the road has been in such a sorry state for at least two years. 'The only place to go is the pothole,' Ballan local Stuart Brown told us. And where tyres go flat, so do paychecks. Mr Brown has forked out more than $5000 in repairs to his two cars due to the poor condition of the roads in the last two-and-a-half years alone. 'I've managed to hit three potholes at least, two with a car with low profile tyres,' he said. 'This has meant buying twelve new tires, and one of my cars is now (also) getting some front suspension work. 'Each set of new tires on the Discovery were about $1800, on the sedan about $1200 and there's over $1000 worth of suspension work happening right now.' Mr Brown urged the Allan government to 'look after the basics' before splashing money on other projects. 'We've got a government who cut road funding by 95 per cent - they don't care,' he said. 'It's ironic when (politicians) talk about road safety. One of the big things for road safety is decent roads.' 'Around this area, there have been potholes that have been neglected for a very long time. Some have taken 12-14 months to get filled.' When queried over the condition of the entry ramp, the Department of Transport said: 'We have crews out undertaking inspections on the Western Freeway at least twice a week.' 'In the two years to May 2025, we've repaired more than 1340 potholes and completed more than 12,560 square metres of repair works on the Western Freeway between Ballan and Ballarat.' Join the Herald Sun's Fix Victorian Roads movement by using the hashtag #FixVicRoads on social media.
Cision Canada
29-05-2025
- Business
- Cision Canada
After nearly 50 Years General Products Outdoor Patio Furniture is Closing
RICHMOND HILL, ON, May 29, 2025 /CNW/ - After nearly five decades as a leader in Ontario's outdoor furniture industry, General Products Outdoor Patio Furniture (GP Patio) is announcing the retirement of its founding family and a massive store-closing liquidation sale open to the public. Founded in 1979 by Sydney Brown, General Products became one of the province's most trusted names for quality outdoor living. "It was incredibly special to work alongside my father until his passing in 2017," said Stuart Brown, second-generation owner. "Three generations of our family have worked in this business, and we're proud to have served Canadians." From its Richmond Hill showroom at 160 East Beaver Creek Road, GP Patio built a reputation for quality, service, and design expertise. Their products have been featured on HGTV and Mike Holmes' Ultimate Deck, and sold to Prime Ministers, Premiers, celebrities, hotels, restaurants, resorts, developers, and thousands of families who make up the fabric of Canada. General Products sourced directly from top-tier manufacturers, offering high-end collections at accessible prices. Their loyal customer base included homeowners and industry professionals. "For over 47 years, we've had the privilege of helping people create meaningful outdoor spaces," said Stuart and Wendy Brown. "As we retire, we welcome everyone to join us for this once-in-a-lifetime sale." The store closing liquidation sale marks the final chapter for this landmark business. Shoppers can expect discounts on their entire inventory of premium outdoor furnishings including new and custom orders of outdoor loungers, dining sets, umbrellas, fire tables, accessories, and more. All inventory must go. Danbury Global, one of Canada's top firms in asset disposition and retail liquidation, has been contracted to assist with the sale. "This is truly a rare opportunity," said Jonathan Ordon, CEO of Danbury Global. "You rarely see brand-name outdoor furniture liquidated to the public—especially at the start of patio season." The showroom remains open 7 days a week. Delivery is available across the GTA and cottage country. About Danbury Global Ltd. Danbury Global is a hands-on provider of asset monetization solutions focused on retail & wholesale inventories, as well as industrial machinery and equipment. Services include, but are not limited to, retail store closings, orderly liquidations, and onsite and online public auctions.
Time Out
14-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out
Two cities in Africa have been crowned among the world's best cultural destinations
Were you shocked to learn that, after surveying 18,500 people on their cities' cultural offerings, the gleaming French capital was named as the best place in the world for culture? No, neither were we (and you can read more about why here). But our freshly updated roundup of the best cities in the world for culture includes 19 other brilliant hubs that are top-tier places for an art and culture fix right now – and two of them are in Africa. The first of these was Cape Town, where 89 percent of the locals we spoke to positively rated the city's cultural offering, citing events such as ArtsCape, Cape Town Jazz Fest, Kaapse Klopse and First Thursdays. The city sits in tenth place on the culture ranking, but came first as the world's best city overall. 'Cape Town's culture scene has seen an explosion of talent over the last few years,' says Time Out South Africa content director Andrew Hallett. 'Take Dweba Art & Cafe, a new resident of Longmarket Street, where artists fearlessly confront contemporary issues through diverse visual languages over a cup of coffee. We've seen an impressive run of stage shows, including Dear Evan Hansen, which local actor Stuart Brown shone in.' The next city to be included was Marrakech, which sits in seventeenth place and had a positive review of its cultural scene from 68 percent of locals.
Forbes
21-04-2025
- General
- Forbes
The 10 Best Swing Sets To Inspire Active Outdoor Play
When searching for the best swing set, look for something that has multiple play features and lasting durability, since a swing set is a major investment for most families. 'The play urge is often very personal, very particular, very much like one's own fingerprint in that it is sort of embedded in who we are,' explains Dr. Stuart Brown, founder of the National Institute for Play. Having a variety of play features such as swings, slides, sandboxes and clubhouses provide kids the opportunity to play the way that excites them. Our pick for the best swing set overall is the Gorilla Playsets Outing III, a wooden swing set that includes two swings, a trapeze bar, a slide, a rock wall, a clubhouse, a sandbox and more without taking up too large of a footprint in your yard. The best swing sets encourage outdoor play for all ages. When shopping for a swing set, it's important to consider safety features as well. Dr. Lara McKenzie, principal investigator with the Center for Injury Research and Policy at Nationwide Children's Hospital recommends soft swing seats, capped screws and bolts and guardrails or barriers on platforms and ramps. Scroll to the end of this article for more information on swing set safety, including what materials to put under the swing set. In addition to our top pick, we like the Step2 Naturally Playful Adventure Lodge Play Center as a high-quality plastic option and the Kidwise Outdoors Congo Monkey Playsystem 1 if you're looking for a swing set with a lot of longevity. The Home Depot Dimensions: 126 x 162 x 156 inches | Materials: Wood, plastic | Features: Clubhouse, slide, rock wall, sandbox, climbing ladder, two swings, trapeze bar Our top pick, the Gorilla Playsets Outing III is a high-quality wooden swing set with a variety of features to interest kids with diverse play styles. Traditional features include a slide, two swings and a climbing ladder. Kids can also enjoy a rock wall with a rope, a telescope, a sandbox, a trapeze bar and more. If you're looking for additional play features, you can also purchase the Gorilla Playsets Outing III with a tube slide. This is a great swing set for medium to large backyards and families with multiple kids. It's also best for kids at least 3 years old. Because it's a wooden set, there is some maintenance required. You'll need to coat the wood with a sealant, and the brand recommends reapplying every two to three years. Amazon Dimensions: 101.2 x 70.5 x 74 inches | Materials: Metal | Features: Saucer swing and traditional swing The Trekassy Two-Seat Swing Set is an option that does what swing sets do best: provides a safe place for kids to swing. This metal swing set comes with one saucer seat and one traditional seat. If you want to purchase and try other swing options, like a baby swing or a trapeze bar, it's easy to swap those in. For safety, McKenzie recommends covering bolts and screws. When assembling this set, be sure to use the included nylon nuts. This swing set is best for people looking for an inexpensive, low-maintenance option or those who have limited space. Metal sets like this one require less maintenance than wooden sets and often take less assembly time than more complicated swing sets. Amazon Dimensions: 166 x 118 x 87 inches | Materials: Plastic | Features: Two swings, clubhouse, slide, rope ladder, basketball hoop, steering wheel, stairs One of my favorite things about plastic swing sets is that they're long-lasting and require little maintenance. My family had a hand-me-down Step2 swing set that we have now passed down to a third family—and it's still in great condition. The Step2 Naturally Playful Adventure Lodge Play Center includes a variety of play features such as a climbing rope, a slide, a clubhouse, two swings and a basketball hoop. There is also a play area under the clubhouse. Designed for kids ages 3 to 8, this swing set is best for younger kids. If your children are nearing 8, you may want to choose one of the larger and more adventurous sets, such as the Backyard Discovery Skyfort II. Amazon Dimensions: 168 x 93 x 74 inches | Materials: Metal, plastic | Features: Three swings, slide, seesaw Metal swing sets like the XDP Recreation Free N' Swing Set are simple yet sturdy and versatile. Though this set doesn't include a clubhouse nor any climbing features, it does include a slide, three types of swings (everyone's favorite) and a seesaw. I like that this set has some unique features you don't typically get in a backyard swing set, like the seesaw and the standing swing. As a mom to three, I also like that this set offers three swinging features to reduce arguments over whose turn it is to swing. Because it's a metal set, it promises less maintenance. You won't need to maintain the supports the way you would with a wood set; just be sure to regularly check for rust, sharp pieces and wear. It's important to note that anchors to ensure the swing set does not tip are not included, so you'll need to purchase these separately. If you have multiple kids or a large yard, you might also like the slightly larger Sportspower Super 10 Metal Swing Set, or this brand XDP Recreation makes more spacious sets to accommodate more kids, too, such as its Fun All Mighty set. Amazon Dimensions: 263 x 201 x 148 inches | Materials: Wood, plastic | Features: Clubhouse, balcony, sandbox, telescope, monkey bars, picnic table, two swings, trapeze bar, slide, rock wall, ladder Dr. Brown explained that there can be a huge variation in activities that kids engage in when they are free to play. A swing set like the Backyard Discovery Skyfort II that has so many different play components can help engage kids with all sorts of play styles, from those who like to quietly sit and play in the sand or color to those who love to climb and swing. Features in this one include a clubhouse, a balcony, a sandbox, a telescope, monkey bars, a picnic table, two swings, a trapeze bar, a slide, a rock wall and a ladder. Traditional wood swing sets like this one are known for looking beautiful in the yard—and for lasting until your kids outgrow it. Because it's wood, it does require some maintenance. The brand recommends treating the wood with a sealant once or twice a year. Bijou Build Dimensions: 198 x 90 x 114 inches | Materials: Wood, metal, polyester | Features: Clubhouse, climbing wall, platform, two swings My kids have been using the Bijou Build Mainstay And Sway for about a year, and they still can't get enough of it. Undoubtedly, their favorite thing to do is spin on the swings. They're pretty comfortable, too. I often swing next to my daughter while I read her a story. Not to mention, the unique structure looks beautiful in our backyard, especially when the solar lights come on at night. Every time other kids come over to play, they're immediately drawn to our swing set. The swing set is designed to be portable, making it ideal for families who move often. Though it is more portable than a traditional wooden swing set, it is still challenging to move. It's also customizable, with a variety of add-ons available, including a rope bridge and hanging planters. It's worth noting that you can purchase the swing set with or without wood. Esther Carlstone, a Forbes Vetted editor and parent of three, also has the Bijou with the add-on bridge. 'When our old wooden swing set started falling apart, we replaced it with the Bijou and couldn't be more thrilled. It's always the hit of my 6-year-old's playdates and even my 11-year-old enjoys relaxing in the swing with a book,' she says. Maisonette Dimensions: 192 x 168 x 126 inches | Materials: Polymer-coated wood, plastic | Features: Two swings, trapeze bar, rock wall, clubhouse, slide, fireman's pole, sandbox While most swing sets are sturdy and designed to last, they can all break down over time. Plastic can get weak and crack, wood can rot and splinter and metal can rust. The Kidwise Outdoors Congo Monkey Playsystem #1 Swing Set is made of wood that's coated in polymer, which makes it more resistant to splinters, moisture and UV damage. It also eliminates the maintenance required of other wood swing sets. This particular set has a lot of play features, including two swings, a trapeze bar, a rock wall, a clubhouse, a slide, a fireman's pole and a sandbox. It's definitely a more expensive set, so this would be best for a family who doesn't plan on moving anytime soon. It's also great for families who want their swing set to stay looking nice since it's not likely to fade or fall into disrepair as other sets might. Dimensions: 67.5 x 49 x 45.2 inches | Materials: Wood | Features: Ladder, rock wall, slide, swing Toddlers love to be adventurous on swing sets, too, but many of the larger swing sets aren't safe for kids under 3. The Juniper is ideal for little tots because it's low to the ground, has four play elements and it can fold up for storage. You can also opt to use it indoors during cold and rainy seasons or just on a smaller enclosed porch where you can keep an eye on the little ones. The set includes a climbing ladder, a slide, a rock wall and a swing. When they're ready, swap out the baby swing for a toddler swing. Though I don't have this exact set, I do have the Avenlur Walnut climbing set in my playroom, and I have found it to be extremely high quality. One important safety note, which is particularly pertinent for parents of toddlers: don't go down the slide with your child on your lap. 'Children's legs often get caught and injured on the way down,' says McKenzie. Additionally, even though you can use this set indoors or outdoors, it's best to store it indoors when not in use. Home Depot Dimensions: 234 x 228 x 156 inches | Materials: Wood, plastic | Features: Clubhouse, tube slide, wave slide, clatter bridge, balcony, sandbox, telescope, picnic table, rock wall, two swings, trapeze bar, ladder, tic-tac-toe, steering wheel When you have a lot of kids or a popular backyard, a large swing set is ideal. No matter what type of play your kids are into, they'll likely find something they love in this swing set. Unique features include a clatter bridge, multiple clubhouse levels, a tube slide and a tic-tac-toe board. The set also has a wave slide, a balcony, a sandbox, a telescope, a picnic table, a rock wall, two swings, a trapeze bar, a ladder and a steering wheel. It's recommended for children ages 3 to 11 years and the swing set's swing beam can hold up to 800 pounds. Plus, there's a clearance of 5 feet and 7 feet under the play decks offering more room for tag and more. This is definitely a large and exciting swing set, so make sure you have enough room: you'll need a flat area to install the swing set. Additionally, McKenzie recommends installing swing sets at least 6 feet from any fences or walls. You'll also need to maintain the wood with a sealant every two to three years. Amazon Dimensions: 123 x 108 x 95 inches | Materials: Wood, plastic | Features: Swings, slide, clubhouse, sandbox, ladder, chalkboard, climbing ladder Having a small yard doesn't preclude you from having a swing set. The KidKraft Appleton Wooden Swing Set is a more compact set, but it still includes swings, a slide, a clubhouse, a sandbox, a rock wall, a chalkboard and a climbing ladder. It's made of pretreated wood, and the brand recommends applying a water repellent or stain annually. This set is just right for younger kids who need a place to play and explore in their yard. It's recommended for kids ages 3 to 7, so you'll want to choose a different set if your kids are older. Though not a swing set, older kids might like the KidKraft Panorama Tower Playhouse, which also takes up less space in your yard while still offering plenty of fun play area within this vertically stacked structure. At Forbes Vetted, we take product recommendations seriously. Our baby and kids gear team is made up of experienced parents, journalists, editors and product reviewers. To curate a list of the best swing sets, we combined product research, expert insight and our own experience. With so many swing sets available, finding the one that's right for you requires you to consider your preferences, needs and available space. Here are some factors to think about when making your decision. One of the first steps to ensuring safety is making sure your swing set meets ASTM standards. McKenzie also recommends soft swing seats, capped screws and bolts and guardrails or barriers on ramps and platforms. Additionally, check to make sure your child's head can't get stuck anywhere; any space between railings or other components should be less than 3.5 inches or more than 9 inches. When it comes to installing the swing set, it should be on a level surface and anchored down. 'The surface under the equipment should be energy-absorbent like mats made of safety-tested rubber or rubber-like material, shredded rubber, sand, wood chips or bark,' says McKenzie. Whatever surface you choose, it should be between 9 and 12 inches deep, and it should extend at least 6 feet out from the swing set (more around slides and swings). Once your swing set is installed and your kids start playing on it, regularly check for sharp points, rusty areas and broken or loose components, such as nuts and bolts. Keep an eye on your kids while they're playing on a swing set. 'Most injuries are associated with falls from the equipment onto the ground,' says McKenzie. 'Children ages 5 to 12 years are injured the most.' Be sure to read all the manufacturer's instructions for installation, maintenance and safe use. Consider how much space you have in your yard for a swing set, and don't forget to account for extra room around the set. 'Walls, fences or other objects should be at least 6 feet away from either side of a swing,' says McKenzie. To get the most use out of a swing set, look for something that has a variety of play features. Dr. Brown explained that kids can have varied play interests, so try to cater to their interests when choosing play features. Common play features include swings, slides, rock walls, sandboxes and clubhouses. Some sets have more unique features like flower boxes, chalkboards, rope ladders and telescopes. Typically, swing sets are made of either wood, plastic, metal or vinyl. There are many reputable swing set brands, including KidKraft, Gorilla Playsets, Step2, Creative Playthings and Backyard Discovery. When choosing a brand, make sure they follow ASTM standards to ensure the swing set is designed safely. McKenzie recommends an energy-absorbent surface, such as shredded rubber, sand, wood chips or bark. Grass, concrete and blacktop are not safe surfaces for under a swing set. If you live in an area with four seasons, the best time to buy a swing set is early spring so you can set it up, install a safe surface beneath it and have it ready for play through the warmer months. If you're looking to save money, you might find swing set deals during sales events like Memorial Day or Amazon Prime Day. Some swing sets also go on sale in late summer or early fall.
