Brazilian architecture firm Siqueira+Azul has completed Itaúna House, a new compact leisure annex located in Rio de Janeiro. This project serves as an expansion to an existing residence originally designed by Oscar Niemeyer achieved by acquiring the adjacent property and transforming the surrounding landscape The Itaúna House project is situated on a site that originally housed a compact Oscar Niemeyer-designed residence Through the acquisition of the neighboring lot Siqueira+Azul was able to expand the property This expansion allowed for a reconfiguration of the urban landscape creating a gardened connection between the original house and its surroundings The project introduces a new garden defined by distinct vertical and horizontal lines to enhance the sense of openness The focal point of the Itaúna House expansion by architects Siqueira+Azul is the newly constructed leisure annex positioned on an expressive plane that appears to hover between the pool and the garden This design adds a dynamic element to the property while creating a strong visual connection between the outdoor spaces The leisure annex is integrated into the overall layout of the project enhancing the sense of cohesion between the old and new elements The project consists of three independent constructions all of which are interconnected by pathways These connections allow for fluid movement throughout the property promoting complete integration between the different structures The architectural design emphasizes functional flow and ease of access while adapting the interior spaces to accommodate new ways of living a spiral staircase leads to a tower with large sliding glass panels for vertical circulation One of the defining features of the Itaúna House is Siqueira+Azul’s addition of large pivoting panels to the facades of the main existing blocks These panels are supported by a custom structural scheme made of iron square mesh allowing them to function efficiently and adding an exciting visual element to the exterior The boundary between indoor and outdoor spaces is softened by the continuous use of a long bench that outlines the edges of the slabs designed as both an observation point and a source of natural light This feature enhances the vertical circulation within the project which is further highlighted by a helical staircase leading to a tower element with large sliding glass panels This staircase adds a sculptural element to the design while connecting the various levels of the property a circular oculus provides natural light and views into the upper courtyard The leisure annex is constructed using natural materials such as stone and concrete creating a sense of harmony with the surrounding landscape The design contrasts these materials with the use of differentiated planes adding aesthetic depth and maintaining visual continuity throughout the project This balance of materials and forms reflects Siqueira+Azul’s approach to creating an atmosphere that is at once cohesive and dynamic a new leisure annex is built on a plane that appears to hover between the pool and garden three independent structures are interconnected by pathways large pivoting panels are added to the facades of the existing blocks | image © Ruy Teixeira a long bench outlines the boundaries of slabs creating a continuous indoor-outdoor connection natural materials like stone and concrete create contrast yet maintain visual continuity architect: Siqueira+Azul Arquitetura | @siqueira_azularquitetura photography: © André Nazareth | @andrenazarethfoto, Ruy Teixeira | @ruy_teixeira AXOR presents three bathroom concepts that are not merely places of function but destinations in themselves — sanctuaries of style the approximately 8,611-square-foot annex appears to hover between the pool and garden It was developed as three independent constructions and is fully interconnected by pathways The façades of the main existing blocks feature large pivoting panels allowing for a seamless transition between the indoor and outdoor spaces These function through a custom structural scheme in an iron square mesh The project also features a circular oculus that provides views to the courtyard The annex is crowned by a tower element with large sliding glass panels This is accessed by a distinctive helical staircase Itaúna House is composed of natural materials which highlight contrasts while maintaining aesthetic continuity throughout the home Are you sure you want to block this user and hide all related comments throughout the site Your comment will be visible once approved Nestled between a rare pocket of tropical landscape and a vibrant (albeit metropolitan) urban fabric in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Itaúna House emerges as an edifice of modernist nostalgia. Originally designed as a compact residence by Brazilian stalwart Oscar Niemeyer the home and its original ethos have now been reimagined by Siqueira+Azul Arquitetura evolving into a layered composition of spaces that toe the threshold between structure and nature crafting a residence that embodies both spatial dynamism and material harmony appearing to hover over the concrete masses while the existing structure is redefined by vertical and horizontal thresholds that frame both internal experiences and external vistas The architectural dialogue continues through a striking spiral staircase, leading upward into a tower-esque element enclosed by expansive sliding glass panels. Here, the elevation of space creates a literal, heightened sensory experience Immersed in light and surrounded by lush greenery the transition between these levels becomes a journey rather than a circulation path dotted with built masses Materiality plays a crucial role in amplifying this fluidity. The project juxtaposes raw and refined textures—like stone and concrete—forming the primary surfaces; their weight offset by the openness of glass Brass and teakwood details lend warmth to the structural clarity The dialogue between materials is subtle yet intentional each plane shifting to complement the next ensuring a seamless continuity in both form and function The Itaúna House is not merely an expansion of a residence; it is an expansion of thought, a testament to how minimalist architecture can enhance the way we inhabit space Through its rather masterful play of levels living dimension—one that allows it to breathe with its environment It stands as a contemporary reflection on Niemeyer’s principles a space that invites nature in while celebrating the raw beauty and functionalism of the structure itself From vernacular knowledge to modern sustainability Middle Eastern pavilions serve as living archives of architectural thought offering fresh frameworks for global adoption the book presents a fictional story depicting algorithms exercising control over humans and how this affects the built environment STIR engages with the curators of the Togo Oman and Qatar pavilions—debuting at the Venice Architecture Biennale 2025—on representation Tipnis shares how the toolbox democratises the practice of restoration via DIY resources to repair tangible urban heritage made of common building materials Exclusive preview for subscribers. Learn More Make your fridays matter. Learn More © Copyright 2019-2025 STIR Design Private Limited Please confirm your email address and we’ll send you a link to reset your password All your bookmarks will be available across all your devices Password must be 8 characters long including one capital letter By creating an account, you acknowledge and agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy by STIR Select the Conversation Category you would like to watch Please enter your details and click submit Single account access for STIRworld.com,STIRpad.com and exclusive STIRfri content Verification link sent to check your inbox or spam folder to complete sign up process by STIRworld | Published on : Feb 11 Unlocked: Jai Glindeman’s Stab Edit Of The Year Entry Stab Interview: WSL CEO Ryan Crosby On The Tectonic Shifts Coming To The Championship Tour Ramzi Boukhiam’s Season In Jeopardy After Injury Isabella Nichols + Jack Robinson Win Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach The Electric Acid Surfboard Test With Dave Rastovich Day 1 in Rio — is there a better way to do this so let’s reveal who makes the best in the game Morgan Cibilic gets a late wildcard into the draw and continues rampage And more existential questions from Day 1 of the 2025 Gold Coast Pro Burleigh Mid-year cut and Final Five to depart in 2026 while Pipeline will return as the last event Pick your pony from the top 10 Instagram submissions Bede Durbidge + Maddy Job breakdown the return of Burleigh after a 25-year CT hiatus And now paddling out at North Point is the same as buying dog-themed JPEGs on the blockchain Jaleesa Vincent drops another highly original + voluptuous surf tape riding her boards shaped in rose red heels From Tubes To Turns, Jai Glindeman's Surfing is a Treat to Behold Gerry Lopez Goes Deep With Justin Jay On The Plug Podcast Spot Guide: Rincon Queen, of the Coast NewsAll NewsEventsBig Wave NewsWorld Surf LeagueEnvironmentalIndustryWave PoolsPosts List Hawaiian Big Wave Icon Clyde Aikau Passes Away at 75 Winners of SURFER's Emerging Brands Grant Announced The World Surf League (WSL) has announced the shift of the primary venue for the 2017 Rio Pro from Postinho Beach LLC and respective content providers to this website may receive compensation for some links to products and services on this website The World Surf League (WSL) has announced the shift of the primary venue for the 2017 Rio Pro from Postinho Beach Postinho has served as the event's main location since 2012 but challenges regarding wave and water quality in recent years have prompted the WSL and event organizers to explore alternative venues in Brazil a location that has been utilized by WSL Qualifying Series (QS) events in past seasons will welcome the world's best surfers on the elite Samsung Galaxy WSL Championship Tour for the second time since 2002 “I'm excited to confirm the new location of Saquarema for the 2017 Rio Pro,” said Kieren Perrow “The athletes will benefit from its consistency and potential for excellent waves but we rarely got it at its best and the water quality in recent years has been a big challenge We were committed to keeping the tour in Brazil and look forward to delivering an outstanding event for fans all over the world We'd also like to thank Mayor Eduardo Paes and Riotur for their years of unconditional support for the World Surf League and the Rio Pro and to the people of Rio for hosting us in their great City,” concluded Perrow The winner of the men's 2016 Oi Rio Pro was John John Florence (HAW) while Tyler Wright (AUS) won the women's competition; Tyler has since been crowned the 2016 World Champion following the completion of the Roxy Pro France and Florence is the current men's frontrunner on the WSL Jeep Leaderboard The complete 2017 WSL Schedule will be released on November 15 R.I.P Legendary Big Wave Rider and younger brother of Eddie Aikau passed at 75 away Saturday night…: Praia de Itaúna is set to host the world’s best athletes as the CT heads to Brazilian soil Known for its beach packed with fervent and passionate fans and a week-long schedule of events for the entire family Saquarema has always been circled on the calendar for the WSL audience The main break at Praia de Itaúna has consistently proven to be a highlight-worthy locale both ending in punchy sections that give ample scoring opportunities and air sections that have rewarded the athletes and fans alike with some amazing maneuvers Brisa Hennessy (CRI) lost possession of the yellow Leader jersey The young Californian has taken the CT by storm with two victories during the 2024 season including wins at Pipeline and Bells Beach with his consistency throughout the year keeping him in front of the CT field Florence has already reached the winner’s podium in Brazil and his free-flowing style and powerful form match well with the punchy beach break at Praia de Itaúna Other names to keep in mind include three-time WSL World Champion Gabriel Medina (BRA) despite his success at a variety of CT locations has yet to win on home soil in front of the fiery Brazilian fans Another surfer who knows the ins and outs of Saquarema better than anyone else on Tour is local surfer João Chianca (BRA) who recently returned to competition in El Salvador earning a Quarterfinal finish against Medina Chianca has been named the event wildcard for this year’s competition You must be logged in to post a comment This event will be the final opportunity for up-and-coming talents to earn a spot on the 2024 Championship Tour (CT) and the chance to compete amongst the world’s best The Corona Saquarema Pro Presented by Banco do Brasil holds a competition window from October 14 – 21 Final Championship Tour Spots Up for Grabs only two men have officially qualified for the 2024 CT Eight spots for the men and five spots for the women still remain up for grabs The EDP Vissla Ericeira Pro in Portugal could see more qualifications unfold before the competition finishes The current list for the remaining spots are held in the following order by rankings: Crosby Colapinto (USA) About the Venue: Praia de Itaúna in Saquarema Saquarema is a Brazilian municipality in the state of Rio de Janeiro located in the region called Região dos Lagos The city is known as the “Brazilian Mecca of Surfing” and Saquarema is known for its beautiful beaches It is overlooked by the iconic church of Nossa Senhora de Nazaré Saquarema receives many swell directions and has contestable surf conditions in sizes ranging from 2-to-12 feet The best swell direction for Itaúna Beach is east with offshore winds from the northeast or north The Corona Saquarema Pro Presented by Banco do Brasil is proudly supported by Corona the Secretary of Sports and Leisure of the Rio de Janeiro State Government The competition will be broadcast live on WorldSurfLeague.com and the WSL App and YouTube Channel You must be logged in to post a comment Macy Callaghan (AUS) scored a 6.67 (out of a possible 10) on consecutive backhand snaps on a left-hander at Praia de Itaúna She backed it up with a 5.67 to earn a 12.34 total to finish off the 2024 Challenger Series season with a victory and earned her spot on the 2025 Challenger Series Vahine Fierro (FRA) had an incredible run at the Corona Saquarema Pro Fierro’s Quarterfinal win against Sophia Medina (BRA) secured her the fifth and final qualification spot on the 2025 Championship Tour Fierro’s heat total of 10.57 (out of a possible 20) fell short of the win Marco Mignot (FRA) defeated Brazil’s Deivid Silva (BRA) to secure his first Challenger Series win After two consecutive victories by Brazilian athletes at the Corona Saquarema Pro Mignot became the first international to take home the victory Mignot joins event winners Gabriel Medina (BRA) in 2022 and Samuel Pupo (BRA) in 2023 “The event in Saquarema was incredible for me it’s a place that I have a strong connection with and I feel it has a strong connection with me too,” said Silva being able to finish off strong because it’s always been a dream of mine to get a good result here I’m going to train hard and focus on my weak points to arrive even stronger on Tour and show what I’m capable of.” and Jackson Bunch Earn the Final 2025 Championship Tour Qualification Spots The Corona Saquarema Pro is proudly supported by Corona, Banco Do Brasil, Vivo, Natura Kaiak, Mãe Terra, The City of Saquarema, the Rio de Janeiro State Secretary of Sports and Leisure, Apple Watch with additional support from InterTV and Waves.com.br You must be logged in to post a comment In a country where jails are seen as ticking timebombs a system of self-rule among inmates has proved a striking success There is just one obstacle: he is a quarter of the way through serving a 20-year jail sentence for murder “My dreams are bigger than my mistakes,” says Da Silva “I am doing everything to get out of here as soon as I can.” Da Silva, 28, an inmate at the men’s prison in Itaúna, a town in Minas Gerais, south-east Brazil is chipping away at his sentence and has already reduced it by two years through work and study at the Association for Protection and Assistance to Convicts (Apac) prison prepare their own food and are even in charge of security Brazil has the world’s fourth largest prison population the main door of the men’s jail is opened by David Rodrigues de Oliveira This word is displayed alongside his name on a lanyard that also states his category of regime: closed Apac inmates are addressed by name rather than number Rodrigo de Oliveiro Pinto looks after the storeroom at the men’s prison in Itaúna Photograph: Gustavo Oliveira“I have no thought of escaping I’m near the end and have almost paid for my crime They put their trust in me and it’s my responsibility to guard the door,” says Da Oliveira Another reason inmates uphold the strict routine of work and study required by Apac – under which no one is permitted to stay in their cells unless they are sick or being punished – is that an escape attempt would return them to the mainstream system No detail of the contrasting regimes escapes the inmates as if we are not human beings,” says recuperando Luiz Fernando Estevez Da Silva “It’s not only the criminal who goes to jail My head was messed up and I got into trouble. Coming here changed me. I want to come back to help othersRodrigo de Oliveiro PintoTwenty or more people crammed in a cell, filthy mattresses and inedible food are common complaints in mainstream prisons. Apac prisons, coordinated and supported by the Italian AVSI Foundation and the Brazilian Fraternity of Assistance to Convicts (FBA) impose a limit of 200 inmates to prevent overcrowding New arrivals come with shoulders bowed and hands behind their backs and they first have to learn not to stare at the floor Founded in 1972 by a group of Catholics to provide a humanising alternative to mainstream prisons, the system has now reached 49 jails in Brazil, and has branches in Costa Rica, Chile and Ecuador. They seek to rehabilitate inmates, who must show remorse. They are cheaper to run, have lower rates of recidivism and are designed to benefit the wider community Ana Paula Pellegrino, of the Igarape Institute thinktank in Rio de Janeiro An Apac prison restores this by allowing inmates to work for the community Some prisoners might go out to sweep the streets which gives them a sense of responsibility and belonging.” enjoys the quiet job of running the storeroom “My head was messed up and I got into trouble ‘The man enters the crime stays outside’: Doors separate Itaúna’s semi-open and closed regimes Inmates from the two sections are not allowed to mix Photograph: Gustavo OliveiraIn the closed area the Apac philosophy is written on the wall the crime stays outside.” Prisoners convicted of the most heinous crimes are here “This area is for the new arrivals,” says Jacopo Sabatiello “They have broken something with their hands so now they must make something good with their hands When they go to the semi-open area they will do work that gets outside Apacs are an effective way to respect human rights within Brazil’s penitential system, says Judge Paulo Antônio de Carvalho. “I’m in no doubt that prisoners’ individuality and fundamental rights as guaranteed by the constitution are respected … a prisoner should only lose his liberty, but keep his fundamental rights.” It is a sad reflection on the mainstream system that Apacs are praised for upholding the law in a judicial system that unfairly dishes out tougher sentences to certain sections of society, mainly poor, black people, De Carvalho says. With such a successful track record, why aren’t there more Apacs? “Every time there is another prison riot in Brazil, someone gets the phone to say they want to open an Apac in that area,” says Sabatiello. “But opening an Apac requires several things, including involvement of the state [where it is located] and political will.” Financial problems, overcrowding and corruption have bedevilled efforts to open an Apac in Rio. These are typical hurdles. Read moreAcross town, in the open section of at the Apac women’s prison, inmate Aguimara Campos, 30, explains her role as president of the eight-member council of sincerity and solidarity which organises some aspects of prison life and is a bridge with the administration Sitting at a table in a sunny patio where women are making handicrafts she describes how different her prison life used to be She was convicted of trafficking and association after 26g of crack cocaine was found in her house “I knew nothing about the criminal life and was thrown in a cell with 29 other women The woman next to me had decapitated her neighbour and had carried the head around in a bag.” a 26-year-old mother of two who holds the keys to the closed section says moving to an Apac has restored her femininity “The other prisons take away your womanhood Reporting for this article was made possible by a residency at Casa Pública provided by Agência Pública Welcome to BirdLife International en As a global Partnership We have translated as much content in your language as our resources allow Please visit the English language site to view all of our content Today we celebrate International Day of Women and Girls in Science In recognition of the critical role women play in the advancement of knowledge we would like to broadcast some of BirdLife’s most amazing and inspiring female researchers and collaborators worldwide Women represent 50% of the world’s population, and therefore half of its potential. But did you know that, at present, less than 30% of researchers worldwide are women? According to recent data provided by the UN: “Globally female students’ enrolment is particularly low in computer technology (3%) mathematics and statistics (5%) and in engineering entrenched biases and gender stereotypes are steering women and girls away from scientific fields But given the current challenges of climate change it’s more important than ever to harness all the talent and innovation we have at our disposal we need to promote the participation of all sections of society stated that achieving gender equality and empowering women and girls is the unfinished business of our time and the greatest human rights challenge in our world we strive to lead by example and inspire the next generation of female conservationists our CEO and the first woman from a developing country tolead an international conservation organisation to amazing researchers measuring albatross eggs on remote islands or project managers doing community work in South America for more than 10 years the BirdLife partnership is full of amazing women of all ages and stages in their career Read on to discover some of the biggest challenges they faced and their advice to other women that want to develop a career in science: Head of Conservation at BirdLife International – Americas What challenges have you faced working as a female researcher I have been working in conservation at an international level Between 2012 and 2018 I moved to Mexico and worked in an American conservation organization called Rare that was one of the most challenging moments in my career had two young children and the new position required me to move to Mexico Accepting a management job with a great deal of responsibilities and constant travel to the U.S and trying to balance it with family time was challenging but it helped me build my career and I am passionate about what I do so I took the job and learned a lot along the way.” Do you have any advice for women pursuing a career in science face the barriers that society imposes and be the best version of themselves every day The world is facing increasingly complex global challenges and we cannot afford to go without half of the population when solving them The absence of women in science means giving up all the knowledge talent and potential that this group can generate.” PhD researcher studying endemic fish species in Livanjsko polje – project granted by CEPF via BirdLife “Given that I am a young scientist at the beginning of my career I think the most challenging moment so far has been for me to be able to do what I love in my country without leaving it can be quite challenging when it comes to building a research career It is very difficult to be a scientist here because the country invests little in scientific progress This can be very demotivating for any young scientist who comes out of her studies eager to contribute to the world and may make them feel that the only option they have is to go and build a career abroad My dream is to contribute to the advancement of science in our country so that as many young scientists as possible stay here and help change this little world of ours for the better “Don’t get demotivated – things that are worth it take their time I have learned that it is wrong to observe an ecosystem from only one viewpoint To get a complete and accurate picture of a system That is why it is important that girls and women get equal rights access and participation – not only in science and technology but also in all spheres of life – because only then can we give a complete and clear picture of any problem and contribute to the progress of society We women are not looking for superiority over men; we are looking for equality and for our words research and solutions to be heard as well as theirs.” Coordinator of BirdLife’s Cabo Verde seabird project and since I was a child I wanted to be a scientist After a MSc course in Conservation and Biology and worked for six years at the National Directorate of Environment The biggest challenge I faced was when I decided to leave my job at the Government as I did not want to work just in an office I did not have support from some of my relatives and friends as they though a government work is synonymous with financial stability and that my career could be over by leaving it I just wanted to follow my dreams and implement my own project ideas I have developed partnerships with other NGOs expanded my contacts’ network and I am contributing to improving knowledge of the biodiversity of Santiago island and the sustainable development of its communities.” “Women and men should have the same access and participation in science and technology as in any other field opportunities do not always arise for girls and women I would say fight for the development of science and the dissemination of the knowledge and support more women so they can have access and participation in science and technology you will contribute to sustainable development worldwide Discrimination against women can be an obstacle Women can make a valuable contribution to the development of humanity.” I would not speak of the most challenging moment of my career but of changes I made in my commitment to society I decided to change out of the white coat of a geneticist and into the muddy boots of an environmentalist these vital twists and turns have followed one after the other and the path has finally led me to take on the vital commitment of working in an NGO to fight for true equality I am very proud that we are one of the largest Spanish environmental NGOs in terms of technical and financial scope allowing us to develop present and future strategies for the conservation of nature.” I would tell them that nothing and no one should ever cut their wings and that they should join forces and flock together All of us are needed for science to fly high and live up to its potential It is completely inconceivable that in the 21st century society we think that we can progress without girls and women having access to equal participation and progress A society can only advance if all people have the same opportunities.” “Being a female birder calls for a strong personality and hard work I studied biology at Cheikh Anta Diop University in Dakar at the time I had no idea that I will end up doing ornithological research and being passionate about birds but was impressed by the number and diversity of the birds This encouraged me to join a national NGO working on bird and biodiversity conservation (Nature Communauté Développement) where I became the Important Bird & Biodiversity Areas focal point coordinating monthly waterbird monitoring in Dakar and surrounding areas in addition to participating in several biodiversity conservation activities.” Being a working mother is an extra challenge You need to make sure you build a good team underneath you that you can rely on and also have a supportive team of loved ones at home Read on to discover the stories of some of our incredible women in science. Read on to discover the stories of some of our incredible women in science. Behind multiple success stories in conservation, there are leading women—empowered, courageous, resilient, and determined—with a fervent heart full of endless dreams who, day by day, build a better world. The BBC's 2018 Young Jazz Musician mixes sax and drum duets with sometimes lengthy verbal statements Birmingham saxophonist Xhosa Cole’s second album is an innovative affair a series of saxophone and drums duets with seven eminent percussionists of African descent interspersed with personal statements about the meaning of jazz and the importance of rhythm “Ibeji” is the Yoruba orisha or spirit word for “twins” brotherhood and the diverse expressions of African traditions and music I always say a duo with yourself.” Adriano Adewale Itaúna stresses that “for life to exist For it is the many varieties of rhythm that drive this album from Itaúna’s Afro-Brazilian chattering drums to Lekan Babalolá’s Clave or West African music and Jason Brown’s tumultuous free drumming all bringing out the best in an increasingly confident and inspired Xhosa Cole who contributions are often almost vocal in their personal intensity the format of sometimes lengthy personal contributions interspersed with instrumental duets does make the whole album come across rather like a film soundtrack But when the well-intentioned statements stop notably on Andy’s Shuffle and Native Tongues (featuring Jason Brown at his most inspired) on the spacious and haunting Our Search For (with Mark Sanders) on the electronically enhanced Double Displacement (with the Africana drummer Corey Mwamba) and above all on the dance-driven All Roads (with Xhosa’s brother Azizi) DiscographyDoo-shima; C–L–A–V–E; Andy’s Shuffle; Jazz Is About; Hear The; Dance Of Ancestra; Masks–Rituals–Ancestors; Our Search For; Mark Skit #1; IG–Live 20/04/21: Native Tongues; CDC; Beat–9.Wav; Double Displacement; Mark Skit #2; All Roads; AAC; Alhamdullah; Ibeji (74.44)Cole (ts) plus © Unless otherwise indicated, all content copyright Jazz Journal 1948-2025 Saquarema has drawn its fair share of Rio commuters through the decades And now that the WSL makes an annual trip to Rio Barrinha and Itaúna — Saquarema’s two trademark waves — have a lot more world recognition The swell that just came to Rio last week is a perfect example of why the place churns out some of Brazil’s hardest chargers Barrinha famously turned on for the final stretch of the 2019 Oi Rio Pro shooting down the idea that the event would always be a sloppy beachbreak sore on the Dream Tour’s schedule Last week’s session at the right hander went down in even better conditions “Barrinha was literally FIRING,” filmmaker Matheus Cuoto told The Inertia after making the drive to Saquarema and others were getting perfect barrels.” The WSL had some terrible luck with contest windows in 2022 often missing season-best swells at places like G-Land by a matter of days Maybe all that bad luck was used up in 2022 and we’ll get a day like this when the CT is in town next June Looking to access paid articles across multiple policy topics Interested in policy insights for EU professional organisations Finland’s Ville Itälä will be the new director-general of OLAF affiliated with the centre-right European Peoples’ Party (EPP) and will move to Olaf from his current post with the European Court of Auditors Finland’s Ville Itälä and Bulgaria’s Ivailo Kalfin were shortlisted by the European Parliament on Monday (16 April) for the post of the new Director-General of OLAF Congratulations Ville Itälä, new Director-General of the European Anti-Fraud Office OLAF! Following a selection procedure involving the EP & the Council @EU_Commission appointed Mr Itälä to the post as of 01/08 His lawyer’s background & extensive experience will come to good use The Director-General of the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) has been stripped of his diplomatic immunity and could face questioning by Belgian investigators in a case linked to the 2012 resignation of a European Commissioner in a lobbying scandal The EU’s anti-fraud agency has a simple way to fight corruption at the European Parliament: Let us in.  As Parliament tussles over how to better police itself amid the Qatargate cash-for-influence scandal the head of the European Anti-Fraud Office told POLITICO that EU lawmakers are ignoring the obvious — OLAF.  The agency already enjoys full access in Brussels to probe fraud and corruption among the thousands-strong EU civil service — everyone from mid-level staffers to European Commission head Ursula von der Leyen It can even hand over evidence of criminal behavior to other authorities its jurisdiction often stops at the door front “We have the access to the Commission president’s office and IT but not to MEPs,” Itälä bemoaned in an interview with POLITICO “The Parliament doesn’t let us have this access.” It’s a distinction based on the immunity EU lawmakers enjoy in Brussels “We have discussed this many times with the Parliament,” Itälä said but the response is always that MEP immunity “is so strong that OLAF doesn’t have access.” lawmakers have immunity from criminal probes but not from “our administrative investigations MEP immunity has been in the spotlight since December when authorities revealed a probe into whether Qatar and Morocco were illegally buying influence in Parliament Three current MEPs and one former lawmaker have now been arrested in the case Parliament had to lift their immunity before the police could move in.  Police also arrested one EU lawmaker’s assistant.  these assistants should be easier for OLAF to investigate But Itälä said the reality is different.   “We can access to their office and their IT “They have only one room normally [and] it’s also the MEP office.” And an MEP’s office if the MEP has used an assistant’s laptop.  All the detained suspects have denied wrongdoing except the former MEP who admitted to bribing lawmakers in a plea deal.  Parliament’s press service defended its handling of MEP immunity arguing that OLAF’s 1999 founding agreement and current regulations “explicitly state that OLAF is subject to the protocol on immunities.” OLAF can go to the European Public Prosecutor’s Office if it believes an MEP should be stripped of immunity “Parliamentary immunity is not a Member’s personal privilege but a guarantee that an MEP can freely exercise his or her mandate and cannot be exposed to arbitrary political persecution,” the office said in a statement Itälä, predictably, sees it differently, noting Parliament itself passed a decision in 1999 pledging to cooperate fully on all OLAF probes “will give us this possibility to make these changes in the right direction.” which only faces restrictions in a few other areas — like with judges at the EU courts in Luxembourg or with certain European Central Bank cases OLAF does open investigations in Parliament roughly one-third of its investigations within EU institutions between 2017 and 2021 (55 out of 151) concerned Parliament spanning from requests for disciplinary or judicial actions to seeking to recover lost funds Itälä said Qatargate has created an opportunity for his agency to reassess its relationship with Parliament and I think the momentum to discuss these issues is now,” he said noting the agency’s discussions with Parliament including with President Roberta Metsola and members of the budget committee Itälä is holding out hope: “I’m still confident that [there] will be changes because it’s a question of accountability of [the] European Parliament.” Metsola is pushing her own set of 14 internal reforms to improve parliamentary transparency such as creating a cooling-off period for ex-MEPs looking to move into lobbying it’s a development to a better direction and better future,” he said “But I would like to see that there’s at least one more point to clarify these issues” — OLAF access to Parliament Itälä was also doubtful about another fraud-busting proposal the Commission is preparing for March This plan would create an overarching EU ethics body potentially emboldened with the power to investigate and sanction staff.  Itälä stressed that he doesn’t want to interfere with that process but warned against any duplicative efforts.  “They say that they want to have teeth for this ethical body,” he argued “We can be those teeth because we are doing exactly that work.”   Any American withdrawal poses dangers for the continent NATO’s boss insisted that the alliance “remains the cornerstone of European security,” despite worries about Trump France is determined to secure more advantageous fishing rights in return for a pact Trump’s envoy Marco Rubio faces European NATO allies amid tension over Greenland Alfio Hernandez appointed Clinical Assistant Professor of General Dentistry Hernandez received a DDS from the University of Zulia in Maracaibo Venezuela and a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study (CAGS) in Prosthodontics at Boston University Henry M Hernandez also serves as Clinical Assistant Professor at the Boston University Dental Health Center Caterina Venuleo appointed Clinical Assistant Professor of General Dentistry Venuleo received a DDS from Università degli Studi di Padova in Padova Italy and a MSD and CAGS in Periodontology from GSDM Venuleo also serves as a Research Associate in the GSDM Department of Oral Biology and Periodontology and a Periodontist at the Boston University Dental Health Center Dr. Sami Chogle appointed Adjunct Associate Professor of Endodontics at GSDM and Associate Professor of Endodontics at Boston University Institute of Dental Research and Education Dubai (BUIDRE) Chogle received a BDS at Dharwad University in India and a MSD in Endodontics and a DMD at Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine Chogle previously served as Assistant Professor and Director of Undergraduate Endodontics at Case Western Reserve University Dina Debaybo appointed Adjunct Assistant Professor of Pediatric Dentistry (GSDM) and Assistant Professor of Pediatric Dentistry (BUIDRE) Debaybo received a DDS from Saint Joseph University in Beirut Lebanon as well as a MDS degree and CAGS in Pediatrics from GSDM Prior to joining the GSDM/BUIDRE faculty she worked as Consultant and Head of Pediatric Dentistry as well as Head of the Specialist Clinics at the Dental Center for the Dubai Government Department of Health and Medical Services Mohamad Koutrach appointed Adjunct Assistant Professor of Restorative Sciences and Biomaterials (GSDM) and Assistant Professor of Restorative Sciences and Biomaterials (BUIDRE) Koutrach received a DDS at the University of Detroit Mercy and certificates in Periodontics and Maxillofacial Prosthodontics from the Universities of Michigan Prior to joining the faculty at GSDM/BUIDRE he worked in private practice and served as Assistant Clinical Professor of Prosthodontics at the University of Detroit Mercy Ahmadreza Rajaei appointed Adjunct Clinical Instructor of Restorative Sciences and Biomaterials (GSDM) and Clinical Instructor of Restorative Sciences and Biomaterials (BUIDRE) Rajaei received a DMD from the University of British Columbia in Vancouver,Canada Prior to joining the GSDM/BUIDRE faculty Dr Rajaei worked as an Associate Dentist at Scandcare Dental Dubai Maria Cancado appointed Adjunct Clinical Instructor of Restorative Sciences and Biomaterials Cancado received a DMD from the University of Itauna Foundation in Itauna In addition to being a faculty member at GSDM she is also a General Dentist at two Brazil Dental Center locations in Somerville and Framingham Julius Coles appointed Adjunct Clinical Instructor of General Dentistry Coles received a DDS from Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry in Tennessee and an MPH degree from Harvard University School of Public Health In addition to being an adjunct faculty member at GSDM Dr Coles serves as Clinical Instructor in the Department of Oral Health Policy and Epidemiology at Harvard University School of Dental Medicine as well as an externship preceptor for GSDM Magda Conniff appointed Adjunct Clinical Instructor of General Dentistry Conniff received a DDS from Colegio Odontologico Colombiano in Bogota In addition to serving as an adjunct faculty member at GSDM Dr Conniff is also a General Dentist at the South End Community Health Center in Boston Tomoko Komatsu appointed Adjunct Assistant Professor of Periodontology and Oral Biology Komatsu received a DDS and a PhD in Biochemistry from Kanagawa Dental College in Japan In addition to serving as an adjunct faculty member at GSDM Dr Komatsu is also an Assistant Professor in the Department of Clinical Care Medicine Division of Dentistry for Special Patients at Kanagawa Dental College Swaroopa Seetaram appointed Adjunct Clinical Instructor of General Dentistry Seetaram received a BDS from Bangalore University Dental College & Hospital in Bangalore In addition to serving as an adjunct faculty member Dr Seetaram is the Dental Director of Brockton Neighborhood Health Center Sein Hsiang Siao promoted from Clinical Instructor to Clinical Assistant Professor of General Dentistry Siao received a BDS from King George Medical and Dental School in Lucknow and a CAGS after completing the Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) program Goldman School of Dental Medicine offers state-of-the-art dental care through our teaching clinic and faculty practice Emphasizing preventive and restorative dentistry and students provide a range of patient services at our Patient Treatment Centers Request Appointment Make a Payment Please enable JS and disable any ad blocker liberated from decay in a pub shed in the 1930s by an RAF pilot May 17,1936 the infant Vintage Sports Car Club ran a speed trial at Aston Clinton which is memorable for the fact that it included an Edwardian class which was won by a serving Royal Air Force officer named John Pole – driving the “12-litre 1908 Grand Prix Itala” This great car lived on to become the apple of VSCC founding member ‘Sam’ Clutton’s eye together with his friend Jack Williamson – who cared for the great car’s well-being over many years – and in more recent times that great connoisseur has been one of the defining VSCC vehicles encapsulating so much about what this great club The old lady is coming up for sale by auction following George’s recent death and it’s to be offered by Bonhams at the Goodwood Festival of Speed “What’s it worth?” and the answer – equally inevitably – is “Whatever the market decides on the day,” or as we are sometimes inclined to put it “Definitely several Pounds 10…” More helpfully The old lady is one of three 12-litre four-cylinder Grand Prix Italas built by the Torinese company for the 1908 Grand Prix de l’ACF at Dieppe It has for much of its life been considered to be the car driven to 11th place in that great race by Alessandro Cagno and winner of the 1906 Targa Florio in a smaller Itala Carefully comparing high-quality photographs of the 1908 team cars against Floretta’s sturdy chassis frame as she survives today suggest that she is more likely to have been Giovanni Piacenza’s sister long-wheelbase entry in the French contest after having been raced for the factory at Brescia and in the ’08 American Grand Prize at Savannah She was then campaigned at Brooklands by a cinema proprietor reported as ‘Wildgose’ or ‘Wildgoose’ but whose business card styled his name ‘R After World War I the great car – fitted with four-seat touring bodywork – fell into obscurity but in a highly entertaining ‘Cars I Have Owned’ article published here in Motor Sport in 1960 her rescuer John Pole wrote: “In 1927 I stopped for lunch one day at the Scole Inn at Diss After lunch I happened to wander round the back of the inn… and I saw a gigantic old touring car filling a shed “The proprietor of the inn told me it was a 1908 racing Itala driven up from London in 1920 and never used since “In 1936 an interest in old cars started,” referring to the foundation of the VSCC I went to Scole one Sunday and sure enough the car was still there in the same old shed and looking dirtier and vaster than ever and a week later I went with two friends and a 30cwt Morris truck with tools and equipment to bring the car away “It took us three days to make it drivable A lot of wiring and water tubing had to be replaced and the old tyres cut off the rims The low-tension ignition system was a mystery to me as was the petrol feed which appeared to be maintained by pressure from the exhaust pipe and I then thought we had better tow the car around for a few miles in gear to free everything up before trying to start the engine and this was hitched on and the Itala towed out on to the main London road in neutral I put it in second gear and with the clutch out we started rolling At about ten miles an hour I cautiously let the clutch in convulsive earthquake beneath me as four ancient pistons started to sweep 12 litres of cobwebs and dead spiders out into the silencer the great engine burst into life with a shattering roar The hand throttle had been left half open and the Itala surged forward against the solid tow bar before I had a chance to depress the clutch which anyway nearly required two feet to it “It was too much for the poor 30cwt Morris The kick in the pants from the Itala sprung the chassis and the bottom fell out of the cast aluminium gearbox My own exultation was something I’ll never forget and clouds of dust and dirt swept over me as I kept the engine revving The tow bar was unhitched and I drove the car back into the yard The next morning a ceremonial farewell drive was arranged climbed onto the car and I drove them up the main London-Norwich road about a mile and then back There were about twenty people clinging on somehow and amidst the screams of the females we probably did about 70 or 80mph Nothing and nobody was licensed or insured [but] nobody fell off and got killed.” John Pole was an RAF pilot with the illustrious ‘Treble-One’ Squadron (No 111) based at Duxford around that time and he’d previously indulged his enthusiasm for really big meaty racing machinery in partnership with fellow Treble-One pilot John Noel who ran a 105mph Mercedes-Benz SS as his road car One day in the Mercedes depot at Grosvenor Road they found an immense racing car fitted with a 1919 17.6-litre six-cylinder Mercedes aero engine The car had been taken in by Mercedes as part-payment for a debt and it was up for sale since it took up the space of two normal cars… Noel bought it and had it delivered to RAF Hornchurch where he and Pole were stationed at that time They tried it out on the sands at Skegness where Noel lapped at 122mph and Pole at 115 before Dunlop warned them to restrict their pace to 100mph for fear of bursting a tyre they still finished 11th with it in the 1929 BRDC 500-Mile race John Pole reminisced: “If you stood right behind the car as it accelerated hard you could see it twist through about five degrees as the power tried to fling the chassis round the crankshaft But the white Mercedes was viceless and thoroughly lovable…” It seems that the car had originated as Count Zborowski’s ‘Chitty III’ which had passed after the Count’s death in the 1926 Italian GP to J E P ‘Johnny’ Howey But I particularly savour John Pole’s memory of one day in 1931 when piloting a Cambridge University Air Squadron Avro “…along the Newmarket Road” an elderly gentleman with a white beard in front and two elderly ladies in the rear also well tucked up behind the raised screen It was a lovely piece of old-fashioned ‘grand tourisme’ Just the kind of colourful owner one would expect Floretta to have attracted – an owner with his heart McLaren stole the show at the 2025 Miami Grand Prix with a dominant 1-2 finish that left rivals trembling Here are the key takeaways from a pivotal weekend in Formula 1 The Miami Grand Prix weekend was action packed both on and off the track Here's a look at what you may have missed from the event McLaren crushed the opposition in the Miami Grand Prix with Piastri taking his third straight win in a race that looked like Norris's to lose Mark Hughes answers the main questions from the sixth round of the 2025 season Piastri wins the Miami GP to take his third consecutive victory to consolidate his championship lead ahead of Norris Lifelong Swans fan and founder member of Jacs y Gogledd visited Mkushi in Zambia earlier this year to provide local children with football kits and stationary provided by Swansea City Emyr was part of a group of 16 people who went to visit the Itala Foundation School Mkushi and associated orphanage which were built in 2001 by sixth-formers and teachers from Caernarfon’s Ysgol Syr Hugh Owen The extremely poor rural part of Zambia formerly had no education facilities and numerous journeys have taken place with young people from Gwynedd and Anglesey travelling to Mkushi to help maintain the school’s facilities and raise funds for tuition the project has grown exponentially and now more than 980 children attend the school and receive formal education Davies – inspired by previous trips to the school made by his wife Iona who is a teaching assistant at Syr Hugh Owen who were students there - was part of a group who visited the Itala Foundation "The children have no possessions of their own many of them were presented with Swans shirts and many more benefited from the donation of much needed Swansea City AFC notebooks to help them with their schoolwork," he said “The joy and gratitude of the pupils on receiving the gifts was overwhelming and as an avid follower of Swansea City for over 60 years We cannot thank the club enough for their support.” © 2025 Swansea City Association Football Club Limited Register to Drapers to read ONE FREE article and a FREE digital edition classic and contemporary – Drapers selects three stand-out South American brands that promise to enhance and elevate your buy with Andean flair The third-largest country on the South American continent Peru might be better known for its delicious cuisine and Pisco cocktails but it has plenty to offer in terms of fashion Traditional craftmanship in beautiful local fibres and textiles combine with contemporary designs to bring your offer a real point of Peruvian difference Your womenswear customers will love these brands that blend an easy elegance with the heritage and authenticity that come with the use of native natural textiles and production techniques unique to the clothing manufacturers of Peru Making the most of natural fibres from South American animals such as vicuñas clothing and accessories brand Kuna blends the traditional craftsmanship of ancient Andean cultures with designs fit for 21st century living today the brand sells women’s and men’s wear including a stand-out loungewear range for luxurious “working from home” dressing The brand is also known for its beautiful scarf designs Wholesale prices range from $20 (£14) for an alpaca scarf to $300 (£220) for a coat womenswear brand Itala Testino focuses on garments made from native alpaca All manufactured in Peru using alpaca and cotton fibres from local producers the brand blends traditional textiles with contemporary designs which are knitted using 100% baby alpaca thread minimalist styles in a sophisticated palette of camel the wide-lapelled Paola coat and the Haydee knitted vest with zip detail up the spine Wholesale prices range from $129 (£94) for jumpers to $600 (£438) for coats Womenswear label Saya was launched by two friends and fashion industry veterans The brand puts a contemporary spin on staple Peruvian garments mixing classic styles that borrow from the pair’s South American heritage with pieces inspired by the international fashion trends of today as well as a jewellery range and items for the home A variety of knitting techniques and designs create the hero pieces of each collection – for example cardigans with tassel details and oversized capes trimmed with fringing Wholesale prices range from $40 (£29) for tops to $165 (£120) for sweaters Tags From military-inspired workwear classics to natural fabrics such as hemp and bamboo,… The Fashion Retail Academy is the one-stop shop for the industry stars… Get full access to all the fashion industry news and intelligence you need Browse the archive of more than 55,000 articles read the daily and weekly newsletters in full and gain priority access to Drapers events announced in one of its official press releases the opening of applications for its Internship 2025 Program This is a unique opportunity for talented university students from different areas of Betim and Itaúna (MG) and São Paulo (SP) to join a dynamic and innovative environment and actively contribute to the transformation of mobility The program offers a comprehensive learning pathway with the opportunity to transform the future of mobility together with a team of highly qualified professionals Vacancies are for the cities of Betim and Itaúna (MG) Interested parties have until March 10 to register Stellantis announces the opening of applications for the 2025 Internship Program offering opportunities for students from different areas of the cities of Betim and Itaúna (MG) Due to its dynamic and innovative environment the company is looking for talent who are expected to graduate between 2026 and 2028 Candidates should be enrolled in Administration English and/or Spanish will be an advantage The selection process includes online steps and interviews with managers ensuring a fair and transparent evaluation in line with Stellantis values The vacant positions are aimed at university students who want to accelerate their careers by tackling real challenges in the automotive industry contributing to the transformation of mobility together with a team of experts in manufacturing