Category Archives: Intentional Communities

WASHINGTON, DC Fannie Mae (FNMA/OTCQB) today announced it was recognized as a Best Place to Work for Disability Inclusion by the American Association of People with Disabilities and Disability:IN, receiving a top score of 100 on the 2023 Disability Equality Index (DEI). In addition, Fannie Mae was included on Black Enterprises 2023 Best Companies for DEI list for its efforts to foster a more inclusive workplace.

Were honored to be recognized again as a Best Place to Work for Disability Inclusion by the 2023 Disability Equality Index and named a Best Company for DEI by Black Enterprise, said Sharifa Anderson, Senior Vice President and Chief Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) Officer, Fannie Mae. "At Fannie Mae, D&I is a strategic imperative that every employee has a stake in. We are intentional about creating an inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. We know that when our employees feel respected, valued, and comfortable being their authentic selves, we do our best work to help advance our mission.

The Disability Equality Index is an annual comprehensive benchmarking tool that helps companies build a roadmap of measurable, tangible actions to achieve disability inclusion and equality. The 2023 Index measured: culture and leadership; enterprise-wide access; employment practices, such as benefits, recruitment, employment, education, retention, advancement, and accommodations; community engagement; and supplier diversity.

Black Enterprise selects companies for its Best Companies for DEI list that have demonstrated best practices to support and foster diverse representation among their employee base, senior management ranks, corporate boards, and supply chain. Companies are honored for creating corporate cultures that value and promote inclusion.

Fannie Mae is committed to promoting D&I opportunities for its workforce, suppliers, business partners, and the U.S. housing sector. Led by the Office of Minority and Women Inclusion, this work includes greater transparency, accountability, and an emphasis on measurable outcomes for the companys D&I strategy and contributions to the industry. Additional ongoing internal and external efforts include:

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Fannie Mae Named 'Best Place to Work for Disability Inclusion' and ... - Fannie Mae

As we complete our first 18 months in office, Id like to share some of our accomplishments, specifically related to our focus on Inclusive Progress for all of St. Petersburg, especially the African-American community, said Mayor Ken Welch.

BY KEN WELCH,Mayor

We Are St. Pete has become our mantra at the city. We speak it. We wear it. We live it. The we stands for all of us, our collective communities and our individual neighborhoods.

As we complete our first 18 months in office, Id like to share some of our accomplishments, specifically related to our focus on Inclusive Progress for all of St. Petersburg, especially the African-American community. That focus has been and will continue to be a priority to me as mayor.

The Historic Gas Plant District, home to Tropicana Field, will be the source of thousands of jobs and economic development opportunities for the next two decades. As a child of the Gas Plant, I remember the community that was and understand the sense of community and the economic base that was sacrificed in the pursuit of economic development.

History matters, so I renamed this redevelopment, which was previously referred to as the Tropicana Field project, to honor the history and the original name of the district the Historic Gas Plant District. Our team identified a clear set of priorities, from affordable housing to funding for minority business creation and expansion and minority participation in the multi-year construction effort.

The Historic Gas Plant District, home to Tropicana Field, will be the source of thousands of jobs and economic development opportunities for the next two decades.

I also required a substantial and sustainable financial package of community benefits that would fulfill the promises of shared economic benefit to the Black community. My team and I are working with our county partners and the Hines-Rays team to bring our negotiations to a successful conclusion.

I am confident that this is a path that honors the history and sacrifice of the Gas Plant community that will drive the restoration of the economic vitality and entrepreneurial opportunities that existed in the Gas Plant District. This will be the most impactful economic development project for the next 20 years, and we have made equitable and inclusive economic development a cornerstone of this effort.

My administration remains committed to Equity, even in the era of the states anti-woke act and the devaluing of Black history. Strategically, we have based our equity effortson indisputable data, facts, and history. The citys 2021 Structural Racism study documents the history of bias and segregation in our community.

To that end, I have created a chief equity officer position a cabinet-level position that will lead our efforts for equitable opportunity across all departments of the city. To date, we have received 73 applications for the position, and I look forward to bringing our chief equity officer on board. This will be the first chief equity officer in the citys history and the first of its kind among large cities in Florida.

In a similar vein, facts and data from the citys Disparity Study (presented in April 2021) clearly show an underutilization of minority- and women-owned businesses in city business activities.

To address the inequity, I have created an office of supplier diversity, and weve begun the process of implementing a Minority- and Women-Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) program, which will focus on creating economic opportunity for minority businesses by building capacity, reducing barriers and engaging the MWBE business community.

Housing continues to be a priority housing that is affordable to our family and friends making average salaries, as well as lower-income families. Weve increased the number of units in the citys 10-year Housing Opportunities for All plan by 1,000 units, and weve dedicated new local and federal funding to help meet the urgent need.

For example, weve partnered with Habitat for Humanity to develop 56 affordable townhomes that provide homeownership and wealth-building opportunities to residents earning 80 percent area median income (AMI).

Other affordable housing initiatives include 65 units for working families at the Delmar 745 Apartments (completed in March 2022), 11 units at the Sixteenth Square Townhomes, 75 units at Burlington Post and 85 units for senior households at Bear Creek Commons (construction began in June 2023).

Other affordable housing initiatives include 65 units for working families at the Delmar 745 Apartments (completed in March 2022), 11 units at the Sixteenth Square Townhomes, 75 units at Burlington Post and 85 units for senior households at Bear Creek Commons (construction began in June 2023).

We also partnered with Pinellas County and the Federal Government on Rental Assistance to distribute $2.6 million in assistance to 435 families so they could stay in their homes.

Utilizing Community Redevelopment Area (CRA) and other city funds, the city has invested $35 million to leverage another $216 million for the construction of 697 units of affordable housing affordable to workers earningup to 80 percent AMI.

For the first time in many years, we are renewing the citys focus on Neighborhood Plans. Working with neighborhood leaders, our team has completed the Campbell Park plan, and we are embarking on 13th Street Heights, Melrose Mercy and St. Pete Heights neighborhood plans, using a people-first approach rather than a traditional place-based only approach.

To support small businesses in south St. Pete, our team created a $1.3 million CRA Microfund to provide access to capital without a match requirement. Fifty-six small businesses were recently selected for the first cohort.

Mental health continues to impact the Black community disproportionately. To that end, we are creating Social Service Hubs, funded by federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dollars, which will bring critical wraparound and mental health services to areas in high need.

To support small businesses in south St. Pete, our team created a $1.3 million CRA Microfund to provide access to capital without a match requirement. Fifty-six small businesses were recently selected for the first cohort.

I also believe that south St. Pete needs a modern community space to support services and enhance youth, education and business opportunities a place not driven by profit, but by opportunity. These Opportunity and Innovation Centers will be modern hubs for community education, nutrition, support, senior programs, digital access and other services.

I believe the first center should be located at a reimagined Enoch Davis Center. Through our partnership with the federal government and former Congressman Charlie Crist, weve received a $901,000 Community Project Funding allocation from the federal government for this initiative and other community center upgrades.

This year, Congresswoman Kathy Castor also submitted Community Funding Project requests for Enoch Davis Center planning and construction ($1.5 million) andSankofa Affordable Housing funding ($4 million).

Preparing our youth for success is key to the future of our community. The persistent academic gap between Black and white students must be addressed in a holistic way, from nutrition to transportation, digital access and neighborhood health and safety, especially mental health.

To that end, we are reassessing the role that the city can play in supporting our students and families, bridging gaps, and partnering with the local education partners including early childhood, K-12, and post-secondary (St. Petersburg College and USF St. Petersburg).

We are reassessing the role that the city can play in supporting our students and families, bridging gaps, and partnering with the local education partners including early childhood, K-12, and post-secondary (St. Petersburg College and USF St. Petersburg).

We will also actively support local organizations that are having an impact with innovative programs designed to reach our students where they are. The Barbershop Book Club is an example of an existing local program that we will fund to expand their impactful work. This year, we plan to fund the Phyllis Wheatley Rise to Read program with $95,000. My recommended budget will include $500,000 of new youth and education funding for the 2023-24 budget, which begins on Oct. 1.

We are also focusing on exploring youth employment and internship opportunities to engage young people in a workplace environment early on, provide income, and share practical work experience and a pathway to good-paying careers with benefits working for the City of St. Petersburg.

We will continue to refine our South St. Pete CRA focus to emphasize poverty reduction and wealth building. From housing to job training, education, and housing preservation, the CRA has become a vital resource, generating $12 million for these initiatives this year.

Throughout my public service, including 23 years in elected office, Ive focused on being in touch with the community. The person in the grocery store, church, or park is just as important as a political insider.

So, as mayor, we go where the people are. Our St. Pete team hosted well over 1,000 citizens in our Community Conversations held throughout the city on issues like the Historic Gas Plant and the Manhattan Casino.

Weve held two City Hall on Tour events, with two more planned. These are evening events held in the citys community centers and staffed by more than two dozen city departments, administrators, council members and me.

Weve held two City Hall on Tour events, with two more planned. These are evening events held in the citys community centers and staffed by more than two dozen city departments, administrators, council members and me. We have regular discussions with neighborhood association presidents and meet with constituents often, based on a protocol that considers community safety, budget timing, and community impact.

We are purposeful about establishing meeting agendas when engaging with members of the community. Given my role as mayor, my schedule only allows for a few informal, open-ended meetings. If an issue has already been vetted or decided, it is most efficient for one of my administrators or chief of staff to address and resolve the issue. Our focus on community engagement is strategic and intentional and will remain a priority.

We have much work ahead, and Im looking forward to continuing to listen, build consensus, and, when necessary, make the tough decisions. My focus is not to maintain the status quo, appease the loudest voices or ponder the next election.

My focus is progress for our city and, within that, a focus on the African-American community. It is essential to understand that some programs may be modified or sunsetted, and those with different views and priorities will not embrace some of my decisions. That is what impactful change requires, and that is fine.

These decisions come with the responsibilities of the mayors office it is what I anticipated when I ran for mayor, and I will not be deterred from doing what I believe is right for our community for the long term. Inclusive progress on economic opportunity, housing, youth and education, healthy and safe neighborhoods and other important areas is my administrations focus and will remain so.

Thank you for your partnership. We Are St. Pete.

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Focused on progress - Weekly Challenger

This press release was orginally distributed by SBWire

Phoenix, AZ -- (SBWIRE) -- 07/11/2023 -- Are you ready to be the guardian of tomorrow and leave a legacy of greatness? Step into the footsteps of a good ancestor, a visionary soul paving the way for generations yet to come. Hosts Lorenzo Rosenzweig and Ximena Yanez are joined by Sven Lindblad, who points out how our actions can transform into a legacy that ripples through time, leaving a trail of inspiration and a blueprint for a brighter future. You have the power to become the light to heal the world just let your story become a message of hope.

"By venturing into the world's most extraordinary places, we not only discover the beauty and diversity of our planet but also our responsibility to protect and preserve it for future generations." Sven Lindblad

If you have any questions about the show or would like to advertise your products or services, please contact Sandra Rogers, Senior Network Director at [emailprotected]

About Sven Lindblad Sven Lindblad, a pioneer in the realm of expedition travel and conservation, stands as an embodiment of adventure and environmental stewardship. With a visionary spirit, he has defied the norms, crafting a legacy that merges thrilling exploration with a profound commitment to the planet. Through Lindblad Expeditions, he has unlocked the world's hidden treasures, inviting intrepid souls to witness nature's wonders firsthand while fostering a deep connection to the Earth. With unwavering dedication, Sven has pioneered sustainable tourism, championing initiatives that safeguard fragile ecosystems and uplift local communities. His unwavering passion, combined with his unyielding determination, has propelled a generation of travelers to become guardians of the planet, embracing their roles as stewards of a fragile and awe-inspiring world. Sven's indelible mark on the expedition travel industry continues to inspire and ignite a spirit of exploration and conservation in every adventurer's heart.

Visit Sven at http://www.expeditions.com

About Lorenzo Rosenzweig Lorenzo, an esteemed environmentalist and conservation advocate, shines as a beacon of change in the field of sustainability. With a profound understanding of the complex web connecting humanity and the environment, Lorenzo has dedicated his life to fostering innovative solutions and driving meaningful impact. He has headed transformative conservation initiatives, working tirelessly to protect precious ecosystems and biodiversity. Lorenzo's unwavering commitment to environmental justice and sustainable development has paved the way for collaboration and positive change, inspiring individuals and organizations to unite in the shared responsibility of preserving our planet for future generations. His visionary leadership and dedication serve as an inspiration for all those who seek to create a harmonious and thriving world.

About Ximena Yanez Ximena believes in a world that offers opportunities to all its inhabitants and considers our most generous action to deliver a healthy, bountiful planet to future generations. For more than 20 years, she held the position of CFO for an environmental fund that channels its efforts toward preserving Mexico's beautiful natural resources. Suffering from long-term and chronic illnesses--and being able to overcome them through nutrition and lifestyle---led Ximena to explore alternatives for personal and professional transformation. She is a Level I and II Biomagnetism and Reiki practitioner, an RYS 200 yoga instructor, and a Certified International Health Coach. Ximena is the author of the best-seller "Healthy Planet, Healthy You" which delves deep into the detrimental impacts of our current dietary habits on both our health and the planet, and reveals the undeniable link between our food choices and the environmental crisis. From greenhouse gas emissions to diseases linked to diet and lifestyle, the book uncovers the hidden costs of our daily meals and unveils the immense power of sustainable and conscious eating in leaving a healthier and more sustainable world for future generations.

About Healthy Planet Healthy You Wednesdays at 8 am PST on the Voice America Health and Wellness Channel We care about our health, our children's future, and the planet's prosperity, so we abide by intentional living and self-responsibility. On the edge of intellectual, poetic, and spiritual perspectives, "Healthy Planet Healthy You" offers nature-based solutions for our own survival as a species. Through inspirational stories, your hosts, Ximena and Lorenzo, will point you in the direction of making better everyday choices for your health, the planet, and future generations.

https://www.voiceamerica.com/show/4133/healthy-planet-healthy-you

About VoiceAmerica VoiceAmerica is the original digital broadcast company for the production and delivery of Live Internet Talk Radio programming and continues to be the industry leader in digital media, marketing, and distribution. We are the pioneers of digital radio programming and have been since 1999. We create and distribute over 500 unique and innovative radio programs for our millions of engaged listeners worldwide. Our network channels distribute live programs daily that reach a growing domestic and international audience who connect through all devices via our mobile, desktop, and tablet VoiceAmerica destinations. Learn more at http://www.voiceamerica.com. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter. Call us any time to find out how VoiceAmerica can help you reach your audience, (480) 553-5756.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/good-ancestors-and-messengers-of-hope-1375680.htm

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Good Ancestors and Messengers of Hope - Digital Journal

Chaniya Polk, Sassy Collections owner, was encouraged by a friend to reach out to 3-N-1 Trinity Services; she wasnt sure what to expect initially but found the experience invaluable.

Youre never too young to start a business, Polk said. Dont be scared. Just reach out. Figure out what you can learn. Be open to learning, be open to ask questions.

Sassy Collections is a clothing boutique located in Longview. Twenty-three-year-old Polk started her business nearly five years ago, selling clothes, lip gloss and accessories online, out of her car or her mothers house. Now shes celebrated one year at her brick-and-mortar location.

Young East Texas business owners and aspiring businesses attended the Entrepreneur Conference and Young Adult Pitch Competition Lets Get It Right The First Time on July 8.

Today is all about entrepreneurs coming together and getting the information they need to get their business right the first time, 3-N-1 Trinity Services Executive Director Darice Anderson said.

3-N-1 Trinity Services hosted the event to empower entrepreneurs and aspiring entrepreneurs with valuable insights, resources, and support to start or scale their businesses.

Anderson said the conference was held at Journeys of the Heart, located at 806 Duckenfield Avenue, intentionally to affect positive change within the community.

Most of the people who attended are from Tyler or East Texas.

When we have thriving entrepreneurs, it can hit our economy. Thats more taxes, which helps us continue building, especially in these areas, Anderson said.

Anderson worked one-on-one with Polk to pitch business ideas to investors and determine and define her strengths and weaknesses.

That was my first time sitting down, actually looking at my business, breaking down everything, Polk said. Everybody always talks about it, but you never just sit there and put the work in and try to do it.

The event included guest speakers on topics like Mental Health in Business and Financial Management and Marketing, a Pitch Competition and 20 vendors selling everything from jewelry and T-shirts to baked goods and wrap-around services.

Eight young entrepreneurs participated in the pitch competition to explain their businesses and how their services and products help improve the communities quality. The top participant won a $1,000 grand prize for building their business.

Anderson said young people often need to learn what resources are available. Thats 3-N-1 Trinity Services purpose.

We want economic development, like serious economic development here in Tyler, so when their businesses are thriving, they can hire people, and then the economy is going good, Anderson said. They were being successful by default, so we can come in and help them understand you were successful by default, but lets make it intentional.

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'Make it intentional': 3-N-1 Trinity Services helps young ... - Longview News-Journal

Its 2023 and were just now getting a line of Latina fashion dolls celebrating our cultura and diversity. Purpose Toys has announced the launch of Purpose Toys LATIN with the launch of Latinistas, the worlds first and only all-Latina fashion doll line sold market-wide at major retail, according to a press release. Las Amigas Lola, Liv, Julianna, and Dani each come with a backstory, an inspiring mantra, and a unique fashion style. Theyre also racially diverse and hail from different states in the U.S. with a large Latinx population. The original four dolls will be available at Walmart, Target, and Amazon in August.

Before Latinistas most Latina dolls were positioned as a friend or sidekick in an otherwise non-Latino toy line. As this is the case, many sidekick dolls reflect the same general look across most mainstream brands. Medium brown skin, dark hair, dark eyes. It was important for Purpose Toys LATIN to reflect a fair amount of diversity in our dolls, while also celebrating regions of the U.S. with some of the largest Latino communities, Diana Garcia, Head of Social Impact and Social Media, Purpose Toys LATIN, tells HipLatina.

Lola, Liv, Julianna, and Dani are from South Floria, New York, Southern California, and Texas, respectively. Lola is a design student while Julianna is an art student and Liv is a singer and Dani an aspiring author. They each have respective dicho thats in English and Spanish. For example, Juliannas is: El Arte Viene del Alma Art Comes From the Soul.

Latinistas were created to celebrate the cultural nuance, the beauty and pride of the Latino community. As the number of Latinas obtaining college degrees continues to grow, it was important for Purpose Toys LATIN to promote education, inspire creativity, in addition to celebrating the cultural foundation of love of Family, love of community and love for la cultura!, Garcia explains. :We created the dichos for each of the Latinistas to help reinforce what was important to las Amigas, while bringing their fun and unique, individual personalities and stories to life.

Seventy-three percent of U.S. parents appreciate that todays toys are more progressive and diverse than when they were kids, and 68 percent expressed interest in purchasing toys that expose their children to diversity and teach inclusion, according to 2023 reports from the Toy Association. Diversity and representation matter and for young Latinas to see themselves represented in a doll goes beyond just having a meaningful toy, its about taking up space and letting young girls recognize their stories are important.

Ultimately, we want Latino children to be seen and represented. Culture is such an important piece of who we are, we dont want children to lose this. This brand is about giving Latina girls the spotlight, honoring la cultura and encouraging them to see themselves as the main character.because they are, Garcia explains.

Garcia shares that there are plans for the brand to continue to grow and it will result in a range of diversity in character in the future. For now, consumers can expect to receive the doll plus her accessories and the box featuring her story and mantra. Purpose Toys, established in 2020, was founded as a pipeline to major retail for toy entrepreneurs of color and initially launched their Naturalistas doll collection, the worlds first all-Black line of natural hair fashion dolls carried at major retail. Now with PT LATIN, consumers can expect that level of representation for our comunidad.

Latinistas presence in major retail is a huge win for us and for the community. As we celebrate this win together, let us continue to celebrate who we are and where our families come from. As a Latina, stand proud in your heritage and continue to be passionate and intentional in your goals and pursuits. And as a community, lets continue to uplift each other always.

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'Latinistas' is the World's First All-Latina Fashion Doll Line - hiplatina.com

Colorado's first WELL-Certified residential community showed 36 statistically significant physical, social and emotional benefits of wellness-focused design and operations

DENVER , July 10, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- NAVA Real Estate Development (NAVA), in partnership with Colorado State University's ( CSU ) Institute for the Built Environment (IBE), has announced the completion of a three-year research study on Lakehouse, Colorado's first WELL-Certified multifamily residential community. Through the study, which aimed to better understand how thoughtful and sustainable design can influence the health and wellness of occupants, CSU researchers found evidence of increased satisfaction and improved physical and emotional well-being among residents who resided in Lakehouse.

Lakehouse is a 12-story, 196-unit community, located minutes west of downtown Denver in the Sloan's Lake neighborhood and uniquely designed to promote the health and well-being of its residents. In addition to being the first of its kind in Colorado , Lakehouse is one of the first residential developments in the world to earn WELL Gold Certification from the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI). The IWBI's WELL Building Standardis a globally recognized program that integrates human health and wellness best practices into the design, construction, maintenance and operations of the built environment to optimize the resident experience.

"At NAVA, we not only believe but can now demonstrate the importance of placing human health and well-being at the forefront of building design," said Brian Levitt , president and co-founder of NAVA Real Estate Development. "With these critical findings, we hope to be the model for residential projects everywhere with regard to the social and economic benefits of prioritizing human and environmental health in our built environment."

The study used pre- and post-occupancy surveys, as well as interviews, to assess 83 variables across four core areas: satisfaction with the building/community, social connections, emotional health and physical health. There were statistically significant improvements in almost 45% of the variables measured, showing that overall, residents experienced a positive change in their perceived health, well-being, and happiness after moving into Lakehouse.

Residents reported increased satisfaction with Lakehouse's natural light, air quality, acoustics, safety, on-site fitness equipment and classes, urban farm and community kitchen. Social connections were likely improved due to Lakehouse's inviting and expansive communal spaces, farm-to-table shared kitchen and group cooking classes, among extensive resident events and programming. On average, residents considered 10 more neighbors to be acquaintances and two more neighbors to be friends, compared to their experience before living at Lakehouse. In terms of emotional health, residents noted Lakehouse's sense of community, beautiful views, and proximity to Sloan's Lake as factors lowering stress and strengthening connections to nature. In fact, 80% of respondents noted that the building's design enhanced their connection to nature. Physically, analyses showed a lower frequency of several physical health symptoms including tiredness, which coincided with the use of blackout shades and 87% of residents reported an increase in their ability to lead a healthy lifestyle due to access to world-class fitness amenities. According to the results of the study, the positive changes could be attributed to the healthy infrastructure and programming at Lakehouse, including meditation gardens, biophilic design elements, predominantly glass exterior, organic urban farm, nutrition-related classes and access to wellness experts.

In addition to engaging with CSU for the Lakehouse research case study, NAVA has partnered with IWBI to evaluate the potential economic and financial benefits of WELL Certification on projects. The results will be highlighted in a forthcoming whitepaper.

"Our social relationships and activity contribute to our health and well-being far more than many people realize. We were not surprised that the intentional design of Lakehouse to support a meaningful and active community resulted in residents reporting more connections with neighbors, greater happiness and less stress compared to living in prior residences. This study confirms the value and opportunity of considering the impact of design and programming on social dimensions of well-being," said Dr. Jeni Cross , Director of CSU's Institute for Research in the Social Sciences and member of IBE's advisory board, who guided study design.

For insights and key takeaways from CSU's Jennifer Schill , who led the research, visit https://chhs.source.colostate.edu/residents-healthier-happier-when-living-in-denvers-wellness-designed-building-csu-researchers-say/ .

For more on the study methodology and full results, please visit https://ibe.colostate.edu/resident_wellbeing_case_study/ .

About NAVA Real Estate Development NAVA Real Estate Development ("NAVA") is a real estate investment and development company founded in 2013. NAVA strives to develop architecturally significant buildings in prime locations that blend quality, function and design. The name NAVA comes from a Hebrew word meaning "beautiful," and NAVA is committed to building communities that positively impact people's lives and prioritize wellness. The firm is built on the belief that functional and healthy spaces yield meaningful economic and social benefits. NAVA is proud to work with the best teams, resources, and technology to help ensure the greatest economic, social, and environmental success for our participants and communities.

In 2020, NAVA completed Lakehouse, Colorado's first WELL Gold Certified community. Lakehouse was named "Innovative Development of the Year" at the NAIOP Colorado's Annual Awards of Achievement and "Best Health & Wellness Design Solution" at the PCBC Gold Nugget Awards.

NAVA is a Certified B Corporation spearheading a global movement to redefine success by voluntarily meeting the highest standards of accountability and performance. For more about NAVA, please visit http://www.navareal.com .

View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/csu-releases-findings-of-three-year-research-study-on-navas-lakehouse-community-301873262.html

SOURCE NAVA Real Estate Development

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CSU Releases Findings of Three-Year Research Study on NAVA'S ... - InvestorsObserver

Willie Lawrence Jr., MD, medical director for the Center For Better Health and Wellness at Benton Harbor, Mich.-based Corewell Health South, discovered his interest in science in fourth grade thanks to a public school community garden.

The interest grew in high school and college as he joined the premed track. In the summer after his freshman year at Cambridge, Mass.-based Harvard College, he worked in a pharmacology lab that studied cardiology drugs. He became interested in the physiology of the cardiovascular system. During his cardiology fellowship at Johns Hopkins, he discovered interventional cardiology. As he put it, "Interventional cardiology was way too sexy and enticing."

Dr. Lawrence was recently named Press Ganey's Physician of the Year. Here, he talks about the future of cardiology.

Question: What drew you to cardiology?

Dr. Willie Lawrence: My time at the lab was my first introduction to the field. I liked cardiology because it's a system where the pharmacology of treatment makes sense and the biology and physiology of intervention makes sense.

Q: What heart study, technology or innovation are you most excited about right now?

WL: New blood pressure technology could be a game changer. In some ways, it's fairly simple technology at this point in time, but I believe in its potential. There's Bluetooth technology that allows a patient to check blood pressure at their home and have that data immediately uploaded to a server so their provider can know their blood pressure at home. This home blood pressure is the best predictor of heart outcomes. As we learn how to best use telemedicine, we can better "meet people where they are" and potentially provide better care to more people.

During the pandemic we quickly discovered how poorly prepared we were to transition to telemedicine. There are significant racial disparities in blood pressure control, and these contributed to higher death rates for Blacks during the pandemic. This frontier of telemedicine is important. It certainly has its limitations. I'm a big believer in in-person care as the most effective way to impact folks' health. Yet, we have to figure out better ways to "meet people where they are." Technology like telemedicine may one day help us to overcome health disparities in both urban and rural communities. Connectivity is so powerful.

Q: What aspect of your work or the field keeps you up at night?

WL: The economics of hospital care and the misplacement of "value" concern me. Hospital care is not healthcare. Unless hospital systems are intentional, they do not necessarily improve healthcare and contribute to the culture of health of the communities they serve. I think there are solutions to the inequities that exist across populations, and I think that hospital systems have an important role in impacting social determinants of health. But what keeps me up at night is the concern that there are limitations financially to how much these hospital systems can participate because they are also businesses, and this may limit what they can do or are willing to do.

Q: What's one thing your hospital/system is doing in heart care that you're most proud of?

WL: I am here because Spectrum Health, now Corewell Health, hung up a banner after George Floyd that said "Black Lives Matter" and committed $50 million to impact health equity in the city. I am most proud of the commitment of this organization to have an impact.

Q: What's the best leadership advice you've received?

WL: My mentor said when you deal with people, you "put all cards on the table face up." That's how I try to lead my life. I try to tell people how I see things. I try to be transparent. If we start from a place of recognition of the facts, then I think it's easier to move on.

The other thing he said was, "The less credit you take for what you do, the more you can get done." I try to remember that every day and share credit for any successes we may have.

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Press Ganey's Physician of the Year on a cardiology 'game changer ... - Becker's Hospital Review

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City Officials Join Summer Campers and Local Artists to Kick Off TheOval Pop-Up Park on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway

Presented by WSFS Bank, TheOval Philadelphias beloved pop-up park is back with a new large-scale mural and site design, live performances, local vendors, a beer garden, family-friendly programming, and more!

PHILADELPHIA Today Philadelphia Parks & Recreation joined City Representative Sheila Hess, Mural Arts Philadelphia, and The Parkway Council to launch the 2023 summer season of TheOvalpop-up park at EakinsOvalon the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Presented by WSFS Bank, the seven-week summer series will kick off with a performance from SNACKTIME tonight, Friday, July 7th at 6:30 p.m.

Philadelphians love their parks, and we love a block party,said City Representative Sheila Hess.TheOvalis our citywide block party, and this year there is an exciting lineup of free family-friendly fun for all to enjoy.

TheOvalis open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from July 7th to August 20th with the following hours:

TheOval2023 is presented by WSFS Bank.

Summer campers from nearby recreation centers attending todays kick off event enjoyed a preview concert from Lets Rock Recess, the Philly Kids DJ, and a summer staple at TheOval.

TheOvalsummer pop-up has become a must-go destination for anyone looking to enjoy all the ways Philly summers are special,said Philadelphia Parks & Recreation Interim Commissioner Orlando Rendon.From breathtaking views down the Parkway to live music and an exciting lineup of local food and drink vendors, theOvalis the perfect spot to get together under the sun and enjoy one of Philadelphias most iconic parks.

Each summer, the footprint of TheOvalpop-up is defined by a new, dynamic ground mural designed by Mural Arts Philadelphia. This year, Philadelphia-Based Artist Nathaniel Lee designed a Benjamin Franklin-inspired mural to be installed as the centerpiece of this years activation. The design tells the story of Ben Franklins mythical kite experiment, featuring interactive elements and tributes to Philadelphia classics.

Complementing the mural, Groundswell Design Group created a site-specific installation to provide shade, seating, and countless opportunities for passive recreation.

The theme of this summersOvalis a fun riff on the legend of Benjamin Franklins kite experiment and an ode to his lasting impact on the city of Philadelphia today,said Mural Arts Philadelphia lead artist Nathaniel Lee.The mural depicts this scene from Franklins perspective, with a few twists. Philadelphias skyline sits on the distant horizon, and the patterns on the kites silk handkerchiefs feature various Philly motifs ranging from the Liberty Bell to the LOVE statue.

Mural Arts is excited to bring TheOvalto life for thousands of visitors to the Parkway this summer,said Jane Golden, Executive Director of Mural Arts Philadelphia.We are proud to partner with Parks & Rec to enrich Center Citys cultural hub with public art that ignites energy and offers a stunning visual to frame Philadelphias most exciting summer pop-up!

Philadelphias MilkBoy is back to host a 21,000-foot Beer Garden amongst the trees at theOval. Enjoy shaded seating, beers on top, nonalcoholic beverages, and other sweet treats from new partner Forn.

TheOvalfeatures a busy schedule of cultural, youth, and family programming for all ages. Highlights include:

Visitors will enjoy lawn games, childrens play structures, and a variety of seating in the sun and shade.

The Parkway Council is excited to partner with Parks & Recreation on this summersOvalpop-up festival,said Scott Cooper, President of the Parkway Council.TheOvalshows the potential the Benjamin Franklin Parkway has as an activated and beautiful urban park for all. We look forward to working with our partners to realize this vision for the entire Parkway, year-round.

For full event listings, visit:https://www.phila.gov/spotlight/the-oval/.

Follow TheOvalon Twitter and Instagram at @TheOvalPHL

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Philadelphia Parks & Recreation (PPR)advances the prosperity of the city and the progress of its people through intentional and sustained stewardship of nearly 10,200 acres of public land and waterways as well as through hundreds of safe, stimulating recreation, environmental and cultural centers. PPR promotes the well-being and growth of the citys residents by connecting them to the natural world around them, to each other and to fun, physical and social opportunities. PPR is responsible for the upkeep of historically significant Philadelphia events and specialty venues, and works collaboratively with communities and organizations in leading capital projects and the introduction of inventive programming. To learn more about Philadelphia Parks & Recreation, visit us atwww.phila.gov/parksandrec, and follow @philaparkandrec on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

TheParkway Councilis a coalition of institutions, residences, and businesses along Philadelphias Benjamin Franklin Parkway. The Council works to accelerate the transformation of the Parkway into a great urban park filled with exceptional cultural and educational institutions, inviting gardens, active public spaces, and dynamic programming that welcomes and engages everyone.

Mural Arts Philadelphiais the nations largest public art program, dedicated to the belief that art ignites change. For more than 35 years, Mural Arts have united artists and communities through a collaborative and equitable process, creating over 4,000 artworks that have transformed public spaces and individual lives. Mural Arts aims to empower people, stimulate dialogue, and build bridges to understanding with projects that attract artists from Philadelphia and around the world and programs that focus on youth education, restorative justice, mental health and wellness, and public art and its preservation. Popular mural tours offer a firsthand glimpse into the inspiring stories behind Mural Arts iconic and unparalleled collection, which has earned Philadelphia worldwide recognition as the Mural Capital of the World. For more information, call 215-685-0750 or visitmuralarts.org. Follow along on social media: @muralarts onTwitterandInstagram, @MuralArtsPhiladelphiaon Facebook, andphillymuralartson YouTube.

TheOvalis made possible, in part, thanks to the generous support of presenting sponsor WSFS Bank.

About WSFS Financial Corporation WSFS Financial Corporation is a multibillion-dollar financial services company. Its primary subsidiary, WSFS Bank, is the oldest and largest locally-headquartered bank and trust company in the Greater Philadelphia and Delaware region. As of March 31, 2023, WSFS Financial Corporation had $20.3 billion in assets on its balance sheet and $65.6 billion in assets under management and administration. WSFS operates from 119 offices, 92 of which are banking offices, located in Pennsylvania (61), Delaware (39), New Jersey (17), Virginia (1) and Nevada (1) and provides comprehensive financial services including commercial banking, retail banking, cash management and trust and wealth management. Other subsidiaries or divisions include Arrow Land Transfer, Bryn Mawr Capital Management, LLC, Bryn Mawr Trust, The Bryn Mawr Trust Company of Delaware, Cash Connect, NewLane Finance, Powdermill Financial Solutions, WSFS Institutional Services, WSFS Mortgage, and WSFS Wealth Investments. Serving the Greater Delaware Valley since 1832, WSFS Bank is one of the ten oldest banks in the United States continuously operating under the same name. For more information, please visitwww.wsfsbank.com.

Meet the team

Nathaniel Leeis a staff artist who has worked with Mural Arts Philadelphia since 2007. He graduated from the University of the Arts with a BFA in Illustration in 2004. Nathaniel was the lead painter of the first Park on the Parkway ground mural installation at theOvalin the summer of 2013 and has provided artistic and technical support for it at several points since then. He is now honored to be chosen as designer and lead painter for this summers 2023Ovalmural installation!

Groundswell Design Groupis a Philadelphia-based studio that creates vibrant urban, participatory spaces. David Fierabend launched the practice in 2006 and today, a tightly knit group of landscape architects, urban planners, and interior designers work to create uniquely authentic spaces that speak to the local community, both newly developed and revitalized. Groundswells interdisciplinary work has reframed how public space can be activated in collaboration with the local community in cities across the country. Notable projects have included: River Garden in Memphis, TN, Cherry Street Pier in Philadelphia, PA, and Downtown Detroit Activations in Detroit, MI.

MilkBoy Philadelphia

Philadelphia-born MilkBoy encompasses live-music venues, bars, restaurants, film, and their Grammy-winning recording studio. MilkBoy is the brainchild of music industrys Jamie Lokoff and Tommy Joyner.MilkBoy the Studiowas originally founded nearly 30 years ago and is now internationally recognized as a premier recording studio for musical artists ranging from James Taylor, Jazmine Sullivan, Silk Sonic, Patti Labelle, Nicki Minaj, Katy Perry, Lil Wayne, Lil Uzi Vert, Dave Matthews, Erykah Badu, Miley Cyrus to The Roots. Every live show, every late-night drink, every dish from the kitchen at MilkBoy it is all inspired by MilkBoys roots in music and the thriving music scene that got it all started.

Fornis a cafe with two locations in East Kensington offering a robust coffee and cocktail program, house-made wine, and an evening culinary program, alongside daytime bites. Anchored by an ethos of collaboration and connection, forn hosts culinary pop-ups, features limited-release beverage partnerships, and serves as a retailer for international and local lifestyle and apparel brands.

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City Officials Join Summer Campers and Local Artists to Kick Off ... - Philadelphia Water Department

PRESS RELEASE

Published July 11, 2023

Merrill and Linda are the co-hosts of Rock Solid Families Podcast as well as the co-founders of Rock Solid Families, a 501c3 nonprofit, faith-based organization. Combined, they have over 70 years of experience in teaching, counseling, ministry, coaching and public speaking. In 2018, they left their full time positions in the Church and public school system to focus on strengthening families. Their goal is to guide and empower families to be all that God wants for them to be. In this episode, Merrill and Linda discuss their Summer of Love Marriage Assessment, deep diving into communication skills, one of four main categories the assessment uses to determine the quality of a marriage.

We're not saying you're not going to have conflict. Its how you resolve the conflict and the tools that you have in your toolbox, explains co-host Linda Hutchinson. Healthy communication strategies are pivotal for maintaining and building intimacy within a marriage. In Part 1 of their Summer of Love Series, co-hosts Merrill and Linda introduced their Marriage Assessment, a tool for couples to determine their strengths and weaknesses within their partnership. This assessment breaks marriage quality down into four categories, emotional connectedness, spiritual connectedness, physical intimacy, and communication skills. Today, Merrill and Linda Hutchinson discuss communication skills through sharing their ten key rules of engagement for communicating with a significant other.

Listen to, or watch, the full podcast interview by Merrill and Linda Hutchinson on your preferred podcast channel.

In this podcast, the co-hosts cover:

What areas the Summer of Love Marriage Assessment addresses

How to recognize and resolve communication breakdowns

How to be intentional about having daily conversation with your partner

How a daily Heart Check builds intimacy and connection

Why it takes longer for men to warm up to talking about their feelings

Why it is important to prioritize checking in with your partner over any distractions

How to be actively invested in listening to your partner without interrupting

How to use I statements to be assertive and take ownership of your feelings without triggering defensiveness in your partner

How to fight with fairness with your loved one and avoid fighting fouls

Why you should put a 24 hour time limit on resolving a conflict

Why Merrill and Linda encourage couples to pray together

Why it is important to seek help for healing past traumas

Podcast Quotes:

Be intentional about daily conversation and attention to each other. (10:21-10:26 | Merrill)

Men are slow to warm up to talking about how they are feeling about things. (12:47-12:52 | Merrill)

Research says it takes about seven to eight minutes before you get past surface talk. (14:05-14:10 | Linda)

Trust the process and show that you are invested in it. (15:31-15:36 | Merrill)

Extend grace, because you are not going to do this well at first, especially if you have gotten into some bad habits. (16:21-16:26 | Linda)

Let the other person finish their thoughts, finish their story. Don't interrupt them in an attempt to either trump them with your own story or fix their problems quickly. And that is really important to make a person, especially a person you love, feel heard and understood. (16:54-17:11 | Linda)

We're not saying you're not going to have conflict. Its how you resolve the conflict and the tools that you have in your toolbox. (27:28-27:34 | Linda)

Pray together with your spouse on a regular basis. (31:47-31:50 | Linda)

About the Podcast Co-Hosts:

To learn more about Merrill and Linda, visit their website (Rock Solid Families).

About Rock Solid Families Podcast:

Rock Solid Families is committed to helping educate, equip, and empower families to be all God created them to be! Merrill and Linda Hutchinson began Rock Solid Radio in October of 2018. They have over 70 years of combined experience in teaching, public speaking, counseling, ministry, and coaching. After much prayer, Merrill and Linda made the decision to step down from their full time positions in the church and public school to focus on strengthening families. Both believe that healthy schools, churches, and communities depend on strong and healthy families. This weekly podcast is made possible through the generous financial support of community partners. With the help of local sponsors and the word spreading through listeners like you, Rock Solid Families is helping to build stronger communities one family at a time!

Complete The Rock Solid Families Summer of Love Marriage Assessment to see where you and your spouse are currently excelling and where you may need to do some maintenance.

Listen to, or watch, the full podcast interview by Merrill and Linda Hutchinson on your preferred podcast channel.

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Merrill and Linda Hutchinson on Communication for a Summer of ... - Digital Journal

Feathers

Jordan Feathers, M.P.T, M.B.A, was installed as Rotary District 7545s newest District Governor for 2023-2024 during a ceremony at the Bridgeport Conference Center on June 23.

Also, during the installation ceremony, Princeton Rotarian Jeff Disibbio, President and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce of the Two Virginias, was installed as the District Governor Elect. Beckley Rotarian Richard Macak, Jr., who is retired from the United States Marine Corps and the United States Department of Defense, was installed as District Governor Nominee.

Rotary District 7545, comprised of 53 clubs and over 2,000 members, covers most of the state of West Virginia, except for the Eastern Panhandle. District 7545 is part of Rotary International, which is a global network of volunteer leaders dedicated to tackling the worlds most pressing humanitarian challenges.

Rotary connects 1.4 million members of more than 46,000 Rotary clubs in over 200 countries and geographical areas. Their work improves lives at both the local and international levels, from helping those in need in their own communities to working toward a polio-free world.

Feathers, a physical therapist with more than 20 years of experience, was recently named the director of the new West Virginia University Medicine Outpatient Rehabilitation Center at University Town Centre in Morgantown (slated to open in 2024).

A Rotarian for the past eight years with the Rotary Club of Cheat Lake, Feathers brings a passion for Rotary to the role. He is a Paul Harris Fellow, past club president and program coordinator, and the club Rotarian of the Year in 2016-2017.

I couldnt be more proud to be associated with Rotary in our state at this time, Feathers said. We are like minded individuals that are intentional about including others that have new ideas and being accessible to the community.

Many Rotary clubs are the service army for their communities and towns. Other clubs give significant grants to other non-profits and school students to improve services or further their education. Its a great time to be involved in Rotary and Im proud to serve alongside our almost two thousand members.

Continuing in the footsteps of previous leadership, Feathers remains focused on growing Rotarys membership throughout the state, as well as continuing to support the Rotary Foundation (Rotarys charitable arm).

Our District has been gaining ground on our regional Rotary counterparts in membership growth and Rotary Foundation giving, Feathers said. We are one of three Districts in our geographical area that are seeing consistent, positive membership growth.

Currently our District Membership team is investigating areas that have never had Rotary clubs before to place clubs in those communities. So, if you have a heart for service, enjoy fellowship, and want to see the benefits of vocational networking, look up http://www.rotarydistrict7545.org to see whats happening in Rotary in your area.

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Feathers installed as Rotary District Governor | News, Sports, Jobs - The Inter-Mountain