Groundbreaking, also known as cutting, sod-cutting, turning the first sod or a sod-turning ceremony, is a traditional ceremony in many cultures that celebrates the first day of construction for a building or other project. Such ceremonies are often attended by dignitaries such as politicians and businessmen. The actual shovel or spade used during the actual groundbreaking is often a special ceremonial shovel meant to be saved for subsequent display. Commemorative information may be subsequently engraved on the shovel.
In some places, clergy may also provide blessings, particularly if the building is being constructed by a church or religious-affiliated organization.
The term groundbreaking, when used as an adjective, may mean being or making something that has never been done or seen or made before; "stylistically innovative works".
Mark Anderson may refer to:
Rear Admiral Mark Anderson CB is a former Royal Navy officer who served as Commander Operations and Rear Admiral, Submarines.
Educated at the University of Manchester, Anderson joined the Royal Navy in 1974 and was appointed commanding officer of the submarine HMS Talent in 1993. He became Military Assistant to the Chief of Defence Logistics in May 2000, Commanding Officer of the frigate HMS Marlborough as well as Captain of the 4th Frigate Squadron in August 2002 and Director Equipment Capability (Underwater Effects) in March 2003 before moving on to become the Chief of the Defence Staff's Liaison Officer to the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee in July 2007 and Commander Operations and Rear Admiral, Submarines in January 2009. He retired from the Royal Navy in March 2011.
In retirement he became Strategy Director of Sonar & Undersea Systems and then Group Marketing Director at Ultra Electronics.
Mark Anderson (born 16 November 1991) is a male Belizean sprinter. He competed in the Men's 100 metres event at the 2015 World Championships in Athletics in Beijing, China.