Latest news with #Elm
Observer
10 hours ago
- Business
- Observer
New tech office boosts Oman's digital transformation drive
MUSCAT: Elm, a digital solutions leader owned by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF), has officially launched its new office in Muscat, underscoring its long-term ambition to participate in Oman's digital transformation and expand its regional footprint. The move marks Elm's first physical presence in Oman, a market it views as strategically aligned with its growth objectives and expertise in e-government platforms, cybersecurity, digital identity, and artificial intelligence-driven services. With a client base that spans government, corporate, and individual sectors in Saudi Arabia, Elm's entry into Oman reflects growing regional collaboration in the technology space. The office was inaugurated during a ceremony under the auspices of Eng Said bin Hamoud al Maawali, Minister of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, and attended by Ibrahim bin Saad Bishan, Ambassador of Saudi Arabia to Oman, as well as key officials from both countries. Elm's expansion aligns with Oman Vision 2040, which prioritises the digital economy and government modernisation. The company says it aims to introduce custom solutions to help Omani institutions accelerate digital transformation across sectors such as logistics, public services, and national security. The Muscat office is part of Elm's broader strategy to export its homegrown capabilities developed in Saudi Arabia. In recent years, Elm has gained prominence for building and managing platforms such as Absher (a government service portal), and Tawakklna (a Covid-19 health platform), which have become integral to the Saudi government's digital infrastructure. Elm's expansion aligns with Oman Vision 2040, which prioritises the digital economy and government modernisation. Elm's Executive Vice President of Marketing and Official Spokesperson, Majid bin Saad al Arifi, said the decision to establish a base in Oman reflects the company's confidence in the local ecosystem. 'The opening of Elm's office in the Sultanate of Oman represents a strategic step that reflects our strong belief in the capabilities and digital potential of this market,' said Al Arifi. 'Through our presence, we aim to build high-value partnerships and provide tailored technological solutions that enhance government performance and promote a sustainable digital economy — delivering meaningful impact to citizens, investors, and our institutional partners alike,' he added. Elm's entry comes at a time when Oman is actively seeking private sector collaboration to fast-track its digital agenda, offering streamlined regulatory frameworks and incentives for foreign investment in the ICT sector. Elm's presence is also expected to generate skilled employment opportunities and knowledge transfer, as the company often works closely with local partners and public entities to localise its services. The Muscat office will serve as a regional hub to coordinate projects, engage with stakeholders, and adapt solutions to Oman's unique priorities — reinforcing the economic and technological ties between Muscat and Riyadh.
Time Business News
4 days ago
- Health
- Time Business News
When Is the Best Time to Trim Your Trees? (Avoid These Common Mistakes)
Keeping trees healthy and attractive requires more than occasional watering and fertilizer. Correct, timely pruning is essential to prevent disease, encourage balanced growth, and protect your property from falling limbs. Yet many homeowners struggle with one crucial question: when is the best time to trim your trees? The answer depends on species, climate, and intended outcome. Below is a concise, professional guide to optimal timing and the pitfalls a quality tree trimming service helps you avoid. Every pruning decision should start with the tree's biology. Season Typical Tree Activity Pruning Impact Winter (Dormant Season) Sap flow slows, trees are 'asleep.' Cuts heal quickly; structure easier to see; disease risk low. Ideal for most structural pruning. Early Spring Buds swell, new shoots emerge. Light shaping is safe. Heavy cuts may stress the tree as it redirects energy to healing. Summer Full leaf canopy, active photosynthesis. Useful for controlling vigorous growth and removing 'water sprouts,' but avoid large cuts. Autumn Energy stored for winter dormancy. Generally avoid pruning: healing is slower, and freshly exposed tissue can invite disease. Key Rule For most shade and ornamental trees, late winter to very early spring—when temperatures are consistently above freezing but before buds break—is the sweet spot. A tree trimming specialist can see the skeleton of the tree clearly, make precise structural decisions, and minimize pests or fungal infection. Deciduous Trees (Oak, Maple, Elm) Best trimmed during full dormancy (January–early March). Avoid mid-spring when sap flow is high—especially for maples or birch, which can 'bleed.' Evergreens (Pine, Spruce, Cedar) Light pruning anytime, but major shaping should wait until late winter or post‑flush (midsummer) to reduce sap loss and browning. Flowering Trees Spring bloomers (dogwood, cherry): prune just after flowering to avoid removing next year's buds. (dogwood, cherry): prune just after flowering to avoid removing next year's buds. Summer bloomers (crape myrtle, rose of Sharon): prune in late winter; they set buds on new wood. Fruit Trees Dormant pruning increases sunlight penetration, boosts fruit size, and balances limb strength. Late winter to early spring is optimal. Extreme Heat or Drought: Trees already under stress will react poorly to pruning. Postpone major work until cooler, wetter spells return. Trees already under stress will react poorly to pruning. Postpone major work until cooler, wetter spells return. Saturated Soil: Heavy equipment can compact soil around root zones. Schedule trimming after a few dry days. Heavy equipment can compact soil around root zones. Schedule trimming after a few dry days. Storm Season: In hurricane- or monsoon‑prone regions, pre‑season pruning removes weak limbs before high winds arrive—saving you from emergency costs later. Topping the Tree Removing the entire crown or cutting large limbs to random stubs triggers weak, fast‑growing shoots that break easily. Proper crown reduction retains natural branch collars. Over‑Pruning (More than 25% at Once) Excessive removal reduces leaf area, starving the tree of energy. A certified arborist limits cuts to what the tree can quickly compartmentalize. Cutting in 'Bleeding' Season Maples, walnuts, and birches ooze sap profusely if pruned just before leaf‑out. While usually not fatal, the mess is unnecessary and can weaken the tree. Using Dull or Dirty Tools Jagged cuts invite pathogens; dirty blades spread disease. A reputable tree trimming service disinfects equipment between jobs. Ignoring Safety Gear Ladders, chainsaws, and overhead power lines are a dangerous mix. Accidents rise sharply when homeowners attempt complex work without proper helmets, eye protection, rigging, or insurance. Hiring the Right Professionals Tree trimming is a specialized skill that requires more than just equipment. Ensure the service you choose has ISA certification, current liability insurance, and positive local references. A professional team not only protects your property but also promotes your trees' long-term health. Because winter and early spring are peak pruning seasons, reputable companies book quickly. Scheduling during ideal windows means: Faster Job Completion: Fewer leaves and lower sap flow make work more efficient. Fewer leaves and lower sap flow make work more efficient. Reduced Disposal Fees: Dry, leafless branches are lighter and cheaper to haul. Dry, leafless branches are lighter and cheaper to haul. Lower Disease Risk: Trees heal faster, so follow‑up visits are rare. Conversely, emergency summer or storm‑season calls often carry premium rates due to staffing overtime and heightened safety concerns. By planning ahead, you can secure an affordable slot with the best tree trimming service before peak demand hits. Credentials: Look for ISA‑certified arborists or state‑licensed tree surgeons. Look for ISA‑certified arborists or state‑licensed tree surgeons. Insurance: Require current general liability and workers' compensation certificates. Require current general liability and workers' compensation certificates. Written Estimate: A clear scope of work, cleanup details, and disposal costs. A clear scope of work, cleanup details, and disposal costs. References & Reviews: Online ratings plus local word‑of‑mouth. Online ratings plus local word‑of‑mouth. Equipment Standards: Modern, well‑maintained machinery signals professionalism and safety. A skilled tree trimming specialist doesn't just cut branches—they evaluate your tree's health, soil conditions, and long‑term growth objectives. That expertise pays dividends in lower maintenance costs and higher property value over time. Tag Problem Branches Early: Walk your property each autumn and mark limbs that overhang roofs, rub together, or show decay. Share this list with your arborist to streamline the estimate. Skip 'Tree Seal' Paints: Modern research shows most wound dressings trap moisture and foster decay fungi. Clean cuts, left open, heal best. Inquire About Mulch Recycling: Many services will chip branches on‑site and leave the wood chips, providing free mulch that conserves soil moisture and suppresses weeds. Pair Pruning with Fertilization: After major trimming, a slow‑release fertilizer or compost top‑dress can jump‑start recovery. Choosing the right moment and the right professionals to trim your trees can make the difference between vigorous, graceful growth and years of costly problems. Late winter to early spring remains the safe default for most species, but flowering, evergreen, and fruit trees have specific calendars that a qualified tree trimming service will honor. Avoid common mistakes like topping, over‑pruning, and off‑season cuts by hiring a vetted tree trimming specialist with proper credentials and insurance. Plan ahead, respect your tree's natural rhythms, and you'll benefit from healthy shade, vibrant blooms, and a landscape that enhances your property's value for decades to come. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Yahoo
05-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
40-unit St. Cloud housing proposal aims to help those facing mental health, homelessness
A new housing project focused on mental health, substance use and homelessness could come to the Granite City. The St. Cloud Planning Commission pushed forward Center City Housing's proposal to build the 40-unit apartment complex at the old YMCA site, 1530 Northway Dr., near St. Cloud Technical and Community College. Community Development Director Matt Glaesman said the lot has been vacant for roughly eight years. Center City Housing's project, Elm Ridge Apartments, would be monitored with a 24/7 front desk and security. Similar program seeks assistance: After decades of second chances, St. Cloud's Dream Center needs help The organization's executive director, Nancy Cashman, said the average age of residents in similar facilities is 50 years old. She told planning commissioners the project would help those struggling with homelessness and health issues, citing the difficulty of addressing health woes while experiencing homelessness. "Living on the streets is not a very good treatment plan," Cashman said. "Traditionally, nobody makes good progress while living on the streets." Cashman said residents will likely be 50% or 30% below the area median income. A Stearns County subsidy helps cover roughly $700 for rent and supplement services, Cashman told Commissioners on May 13 at its May 13 meeting. If a resident has income, she said rent will be a third of what the tenant brings in. There aren't many barriers for residents to live at the proposed building in an effort help meet them where they're at, according to Cashman. She said this helps long-term, citing other housing first programs Center City Housing did. Center City Housing manages similar projects in St. Cloud like River Crest and River Heights. "It sounds a little bit counterproductive but it actually works because people can find their own investment in their own lives," Cashman said. What's up with the space shuttle? Project continues after St. Cloud inventor files for bankruptcy Jamie Opper, who was a social worker in Seattle before moving to Waite Park, vouched for the program during her public hearing statement. She said housing first models like Center City Housing's proposal work, can help those in need "blossom." "When you can get somebody into a safe environment like this, where they feel safe, where they have a space to call their own, it really can help kind of lessen the symptoms," Opper said. "It can help people sort of get back on their feet." A National Low Income Housing Coalition report states housing first programs, like the Elm Ridge Apartments project, helped decrease homelessness by 88% and improved housing stability by 41%. In 2017, Coborns looked at the old YMCA site to build either a gas station or grocery store, according to previous St. Cloud Times reports, but that idea failed. The proposal is now up to the St. Cloud City Council, according to city processes. Corey Schmidt covers politics and courts for the St. Cloud Times. He can be reached at cschmidt@ This article originally appeared on St. Cloud Times: Minnesota housing project aims to combat homelessness in St. Cloud
Glasgow Times
04-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- Glasgow Times
Outrage over locked playpark and plan to destroy 41 trees near Glasgow
Those living in Barrhead's Littleton Park say they have been left in limbo for over a year due to hold ups in the completion and adoption of their estate which has kept children's play parks and green spaces fenced off and inaccessible. It is understood the estate, which was officially named Weavers Lea by the developer, was supposed to be completed by Avant Homes and adopted by East Renfrewshire Council a year ago. The Littleton Park estate (Image: Sourced) Homeowners, however, say they have now been told this will not happen until the construction of 39 properties by Briar Homes is completed adjacent to the site, on the former site of Lyoncross Farm, leaving families stuck in 'an unsafe, incomplete environment'. Briar homes was due to start construction work in mid-June, but have submitted a change with council planners to enhance access/parking bays/paths, and to remove even more trees than originally planned. A resident, who asked not to be named, said: 'The play park was supposed to be open last year yet the kids still can't use it because it's fenced off. 'They have nowhere else to play as we are surrounded by construction and fencing. It's really unfair on them. 'The council and developers continue to avoid answering questions about the adoption delay of the estate's roads and infrastructure. 'Residents are calling for an immediate pause on further development until a new, independent environmental and arboriculture assessment is completed, and until the promised masterplan infrastructure including safe pedestrian routes and green spaces is delivered.' Aurs Road construction traffic (Image: Sourced) The construction traffic from the Briar Homes site will also pass directly through residential streets in Littleton Park and go right past the children's play area. 'Briar Homes has not secured the necessary permissions or legal rights to use these private estate roads for heavy vehicles,' added the resident. 'On leaving our estate, Aurs Road is a single-lane bottleneck controlled by temporary traffic lights – there's no room for further construction traffic. 'Residents fear for the safety of the children and the families, yet their request to delay construction until the delayed Aurs Road project is finished has been rejected by the council.' The trees are part of the local skyline (Image: Sourced) Briar Homes are now proposing to remove 41 trees which residents say are 'mature and ecologically viable' in Dams to Darnley Country Park. This it is claimed includes endangered species of Ash and Elm and is being done based on 'outdated tree surveys from 2021'. The trees can be seen in the distance from Barrhead train station (Image: Sourced) It is understood by residents that a huge sycamore on the new Briar Homes site will be lost to make way for a "single parking bay". READ NEXT: We saved this historic building from a state of disrepair This has been described as a 'nature crime' by another resident who is also worried that the loss of trees will destroy bat and bird habitats. The trees at Lyoncross Mound (Image: Sourced) Concerns have also been raised about the listed 18th-century Lyoncross Farmhouse, an important architectural feature of the area, which is said to 'remain neglected without any conservation plan, while the proposed housing obscures its visibility and context'. Lyoncross Farmhouse (Image: Sourced) 'Residents have been left out of key decisions - no neighbour notifications, no updated consultations, and no clear communication on why these projects are being pushed through despite public and environmental objections,' added the first resident. READ NEXT: Inside the superb modern home for sale worth over £300k A spokesperson from Briar Homes, said: 'Following the purchase of the land in May 2025, and in keeping with demand, our mission is to deliver high-quality, sustainable homes in Barrhead. 'We support the wider regeneration of Barrhead including contributions towards affordable housing and an extensive landscaping and tree provision strategy. 'We have been consulting and collaborating with East Renfrewshire Council on all aspects of development. 'We continue to engage with local residents and our construction approach aims to prioritise the health and safety of both workers and the community while minimising disruption to residents.' An Avant Homes spokesperson said: 'Our development in Barrhead was fully completed last June and the roads on the development are all final surfaced. 'Following a joint inspection visit with officers of ERC's roads department in May 2025, a list of minor remedial works has been agreed and our contractor is scheduling these to be done. We anticipate these works will be completed by the beginning of September. 'The play park is fully installed and is, at present, purposely fenced off to allow the grass and planting to become established before it is opened to the public. The local council is aware of the approach we are taking. 'A full inspection and health and safety approval from our play park designer is also required before it can be opened and we are arranging for this to take place in line with the fencing removal. We anticipate that the play park will open by the end of June.' Regarding the Briar Homes development, the Avant Homes spokesperson added: 'Briar Homes is an entirely separate housebuilder to Avant Homes which is developing land adjacent to our site in Barrhead. 'As part of the planning consent granted to Briar Homes by the local authority, construction traffic for their development will pass through a limited part of our site. 'Once the construction traffic is no longer required by Briar Homes, the local authority will be in a position to adopt the roads on our development.' East Renfrewshire Council has been contacted for comment. All reactions: 77
Yahoo
15-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
40-unit St. Cloud housing proposal aims to help those facing mental health, homelessness
A new housing project focused on mental health, substance use and homelessness could come to the Granite City. The St. Cloud Planning Commission pushed forward Center City Housing's proposal to build the 40-unit apartment complex at the old YMCA site, 1530 Northway Dr., near St. Cloud Technical and Community College. Community Development Director Matt Glaesman said the lot has been vacant for roughly eight years. Center City Housing's project, Elm Ridge Apartments, would be monitored with a 24/7 front desk and security. Similar program seeks assistance: After decades of second chances, St. Cloud's Dream Center needs help The organization's executive director, Nancy Cashman, said the average age of residents in similar facilities is 50 years old. She told planning commissioners the project would help those struggling with homelessness and health issues, citing the difficulty of addressing health woes while experiencing homelessness. "Living on the streets is not a very good treatment plan," Cashman said. "Traditionally, nobody makes good progress while living on the streets." Cashman said residents will likely be 50% or 30% below the area median income. A Stearns County subsidy helps cover roughly $700 for rent and supplement services, Cashman told Commissioners on May 13 at its May 13 meeting. If a resident has income, she said rent will be a third of what the tenant brings in. There aren't many barriers for residents to live at the proposed building in an effort help meet them where they're at, according to Cashman. She said this helps long-term, citing other housing first programs Center City Housing did. Center City Housing manages similar projects in St. Cloud like River Crest and River Heights. "It sounds a little bit counterproductive but it actually works because people can find their own investment in their own lives," Cashman said. What's up with the space shuttle? Project continues after St. Cloud inventor files for bankruptcy Jamie Opper, who was a social worker in Seattle before moving to Waite Park, vouched for the program during her public hearing statement. She said housing first models like Center City Housing's proposal work, can help those in need "blossom." "When you can get somebody into a safe environment like this, where they feel safe, where they have a space to call their own, it really can help kind of lessen the symptoms," Opper said. "It can help people sort of get back on their feet." A National Low Income Housing Coalition report states housing first programs, like the Elm Ridge Apartments project, helped decrease homelessness by 88% and improved housing stability by 41%. In 2017, Coborns looked at the old YMCA site to build either a gas station or grocery store, according to previous St. Cloud Times reports, but that idea failed. The proposal is now up to the St. Cloud City Council, according to city processes. Corey Schmidt covers politics and courts for the St. Cloud Times. He can be reached at cschmidt@ This article originally appeared on St. Cloud Times: Minnesota housing project aims to combat homelessness in St. Cloud
