Tag Archives: City and County Government

Pompano Beach CRA Wins FRA Award for Atlantic Boulevard Bridge Enhancement

POMPANO BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Pompano Beach CRA is proud to announce that the Atlantic Boulevard Bridge Enhancement is the 2020 winner of the Best Transportation Transit Enhancement category at the annual Florida Redevelopment Association (FRA) Awards, which were bestowed November 19, 2020.

Focused on creating a sense of community and adding art elements to the transportation in Pompano Beach, the Pompano Beach CRA developed a bridge that would serve as a landmark, as well as offering a sense of place and destination whether traveling by land or water. This project serves multi-functional uses with its nautical themed infrastructure. Elements included in the enhancement include grand bridge entrances, repurposed pedestrian walkways and tender house facade improvements. It is now a symbolic welcome for residents and visitors.

"We are honored to have this outstanding project recognized by FRA," said Nguyen Tran, CRA Director. "And we appreciate everyone who worked with us on the beautiful transformation of this bridge including the City of Pompano Beach, Currie Sowards Aguila Architects, Burkhardt Construction and artist Dennis Friel."

One of the most stunning features of the bridge are two large sails at either end which feature a computer-operated lighting system that allows the sails to change colors for special occasions. This "sail" theme continues the style that was launched with the City's Pier Parking Garage.

Each year, FRA accepts entries for the annual awards from its members in a variety of categories, ranging from annual reports to cultural enhancement. The entries are examined for effectiveness and completeness - including the narrative, supplemental material and compliance with the submittal instructions. A cross section of Florida redevelopment professionals, individuals and business organizations judge and rank all of the entries and select the winners.

About the Pompano Beach CRA:

The City of Pompano Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) was created in 1989. It has two independent districts: Northwest CRA and East CRA established by City government for the purpose of carrying out redevelopment activities that include reducing or eliminating blight, improving the economic health of an area, and encouraging public and private investments in a CRA district.

The Pompano Beach CRA is funded through Tax Increment Financing (TIF). The funds are collected as property values increase and a portion of that increase is captured by the Agency. TIF raises revenue for redevelopment efforts without raising taxes. For more information: http://www.pompanobeachfl.gov/pages/cra

About FRA:

FRA is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to assisting Florida professionals and volunteers in community revitalization efforts. With its mission of "transforming spaces, revitalizing places," FRA is committed to providing a forum for its more than 300 members to share knowledge and common experiences regarding revitalization opportunities and issues throughout Florida.

Media contact:
Kay Renz
Kay@KRPRmediagroup.com

The Pompano Beach CRA is proud to announce that the Atlantic Boulevard Bridge Enhancement is the 2020 winner of the Best Transportation Transit Enhancement category at the annual Florida Redevelopment Association (FRA) Awards, which were bestowed November 19, 2020.

Johns Manville in Richmond, Virginia Receives its Second ‘Star’ Designation Under the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry’s Voluntary Protection Program

RICHMOND, Va. /ScoopCloud/ -- Commissioner C. Ray Davenport announced today that Johns Manville in Richmond, Virginia has been approved as a STAR Worksite under Virginia's Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH) Voluntary Protection Program (VPP), the program's highest level of recognition. The facility was honored with their first Certificate of Recognition issued on January 21, 2015.

"This outstanding achievement in occupational safety and health has come through the dedication and hard work of Johns Manville management and employees", said Commissioner Davenport. "I commend the Johns Manville facility in Richmond, Virginia, for embracing the cooperative spirit of VPP, and congratulate them on their hard-earned recertification as a Virginia STAR Worksite."

The Johns Manville commitment to providing a safe and healthy workplace for its employees is demonstrated by its very low injury and illness rates. The facility has a total three-year average for the TCIR (Total Case Incident Rate for injuries and illnesses) of 2.3 compared with a Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) national rate of 3.0 for this industry, representing a TCIR rate 23% lower than the national average for the industry.

As part of the recognition for achieving STAR status under VPP, the worksite is entitled to fly the VPP "STAR Worksite" flag. The Richmond site is the only Johns Manville VPP STAR site in Virginia and currently one of nine sites in the United States. VPP includes two levels of participation, Merit and STAR, with STAR being the highest. Similar voluntary protection programs are conducted in other states across the country.

The process for reaching STAR status is extensive to ensure that only the very best programs qualify. Since the inception of Virginia's VPP in 1996, only 72 STAR worksites have been recognized, and only 35 Virginia companies currently retain the STAR/MERIT designation. Johns Manville has set a standard of excellence that is second to none.

In Virginia VPP, a cooperative relationship is formed between the VOSH program, the employer, and employees which include the agreement of company leaders to operate exceptional safety and health management systems that meet a rigorous set of occupational safety and health criteria. Employers agree to voluntarily participate in the program and to directly involve employees in all aspects of the company's safety and health management systems. Requirements include an extensive application process, submission of written safety and health policies and procedures, demonstration of successful implementation of those programs through injury and illness rates that are below the national average for the employer's industry, and an intensive weeklong inspection by a team of VPP experts.

Businesses that participate in VPP substantially improve safety and health protection for thousands of Virginia employees through cooperative efforts to reduce injuries, illnesses, and fatal accidents. VPP STAR sites regularly report decreased bottom line costs associated with dramatically reduced injury and illness rates (an average of over 50% below the respective industry average), and improved productivity, and employee morale. Reducing private sector employer costs associated with injuries, illnesses, and fatal accidents enhances a company's

economic viability and competitiveness, and increases available capital for reinvestment, expansion, and new hiring.

DOLI operates six recognition programs. These include:

- Virginia STAR is a cooperative relationship between the VOSH program, the employer, and the employees that include the agreement of company leaders to operate exceptional safety and health management systems that meet a rigorous set of occupational safety and health criteria. Employers agree to voluntarily participate in the program and to directly involve employees in all aspects of the company's safety and health management systems. Requirements include an extensive application process, submission of written safety and health policies and procedures, demonstration of successful implementation of those programs through injury and illness rates that are below the national average for the employer's industry, and an intensive weeklong inspection by a team of VPP experts.

- Virginia BEST (Building Excellence in Safety, Health and Training) is a strategic partnership between the DOLI and the Associated General Contractors of Virginia (AGCVA) that recognizes AGCVA members who voluntarily implement highly effective safety and health management systems to benefit construction workers and reduce or eliminate injuries, illnesses, and fatalities on construction sites in Virginia.

- Virginia BUILT is a new strategic partnership between the DOLI and the Associated Builders and Contractors of Virginia (ABCVA) and is designed to encourage and recognize ABC-VA members who voluntarily implement highly effective safety and health management systems to benefit construction workers and reduce or eliminate injuries, illnesses, and fatalities on construction sites in Virginia. The program incorporates the ABC STEP program (Safety Training Evaluation Process) as the gateway to participation.

- Virginia CHALLENGE is a formal three stage recognition program that dramatically improves safety and health at the worksite and prepares the company to apply for Virginia STAR recognition.

- VOSH-VADOC CHALLENGE is a strategic partnership between the DOLI and the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) to recognize safety and health excellence at correctional facilities around the Commonwealth. Three stages of participation in VADOC Challenge prepare a site to apply for Virginia STAR recognition. Virginia has the only two correctional facilities in the nation to have received VPP STAR status, Augusta and Lunenburg Correctional Centers. For additional information contact the DOLI office closest to you at www.doli.virginia.gov or Milford Stern, VPP Manager, at (540) 562-3580, ext. 123, or Milford.Stern@doli.virginia.gov.

- The Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP) recognizes businesses of 250 employees or fewer and is administered by the DOLI Consultative Services Division. Contact Tracy Michaud, Consultation Program Manager, (804) 786-8707 or tracy.michaud@doli.virginia.gov.

DOLI also offers free On-Site Consultation Services to help employers better understand and voluntarily comply with VOSH standards. Priority is given to high hazard workplaces with 250 or fewer employees and all services are offered to employers at no cost. These services helps employers identify and correct potential safety and health hazards by conducting walk-through surveys (without citations or penalties), abatement advice, on-site training, and program assistance to develop safety and health programs. For additional information contact the DOLI office closest to you at https://www.doli.virginia.gov/about/doli-offices-statewide/ or by contacting Tracy Michaud

The Virginia Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH) program is financed in part by a grant from the U. S. Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), under §23(g) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970. The FFY21 Virginia State Plan is funded by a grant of $4,332,400 federal funds, which constitutes 50% of the State Plan budget excluding any state overmatch funds. Zero percent, or $0.00 of the State Plan budget, is financed through nongovernmental sources.

The Virginia On-Site Consultation Cooperative Agreement program is financed in part by a grant from the U. S. Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), under §21(d) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970. The FFY21 Virginia Consultation program is funded by a grant of $1,189,200 federal funds, which constitutes 90% of the Virginia Consultation program budget excluding any state overmatch funds. Zero percent, or $0.00 of the budget, is financed through nongovernmental sources.

MEDIA CONTACT
Jennifer Rose
Director of Cooperative Programs
Virginia Department of Labor and Industry
Jennifer.Rose@doli.virginia.gov
804-786-7776

Commissioner C. Ray Davenport announced today that Johns Manville in Richmond, Virginia has been approved as a STAR Worksite under Virginia's Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH) Voluntary Protection Program (VPP), the program's highest level of recognition. The facility was honored with their first Certificate of Recognition issued on January 21, 2015.

Related link: https://www.doli.virginia.gov/

Pompano Beach CRA Announces ‘Love Always, Pompano Beach’ Website and Marketing Campaign

POMPANO BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Pompano Beach CRA is proud to announce their new marketing campaign, "Love Always, Pompano Beach." The all-encompassing annual program will feature local businesses located in the East CRA District, sharing special offers and experiences to attract residents and non-residents alike.

The campaign kicks off with "Sunset Sips," showcasing promotions from local restaurants. Following this launch, Shop Pompano and Play Pompano campaigns will debut. Capturing the signature style of the area, the http://www.lovealwayspompano.com/ website will become the first destination before any excursion or night on the town!

"We are excited to be launching this campaign," said Nguyen Tran, Pompano Beach CRA Director. "The East CRA District has an outstanding array of restaurants, shops and attractions that will offer a variety of enticing specials. During this time of COVID-19, it is more important than ever that we help promote our local businesses and raise awareness about all that Pompano Beach has to offer."

Sunset Sips | November 15-December 31, 2020

Join us as we toast Pompano Beach with a spectacular campaign that is sure to dazzle foodies and cocktail connoisseurs alike! As the sun sets, the specials rise! So, make a new Happy Hour tradition, and visit LoveAwaysPompano.com for drink and dining specials, food pairings, tasting menus and more. These offers are available Monday-Thursday from 3-8 pm. Notable participants in the campaign include beachfront favorites Oceanic, Beach House Pompano and Lucky Fish.

Shop Pompano| November 28-January 15

What better day to launch a shopping campaign! Small Business Saturday kicks off the holiday shopping season with a cheerful reminder to "Shop Small!" Supporting local businesses will be even more rewarding when you visit LoveAlwaysPompano.com for details about discounts, gift with purchase/ services offerings, loyalty cards and so much more.

Play Pompano |December 1- January 31

Pompano Beach is the perfect place for sun, fun and adventure! And now, you can enjoy all these options like a VIP. Make your first destination, LoveAlwaysPompano.com and plan your day with our carefully curated list of suggestions that always include special discounts, visitor promotions and more! Whether you want to unplug or amp it up with an action-packed stay-cay, we've got you covered!

The Love Always Pompano website, www.lovealwayspompano.com will offer an ever-evolving array of specials from featured local businesses.

About the Pompano Beach CRA:

The City of Pompano Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) was created in 1989. It has two independent districts: Northwest CRA and East CRA established by City government for the purpose of carrying out redevelopment activities that include reducing or eliminating blight, improving the economic health of an area, and encouraging public and private investments in a CRA district.

The Pompano Beach CRA is funded through Tax Increment Financing (TIF). The funds are collected as property values increase and a portion of that increase is captured by the Agency. TIF raises revenue for redevelopment efforts without raising taxes. For more information http://www.pompanobeachfl.gov/pages/cra

Media Contact:
Kay Renz
Kay@KRPRMediagroup.com

The Pompano Beach CRA is proud to announce their new marketing campaign, "Love Always, Pompano Beach." The all-encompassing annual program will feature local businesses located in the East CRA District, sharing special offers and experiences to attract residents and non-residents alike.

‘I am Lauderhill’ Campaign Features City’s Police Officers – Short Form Videos Reveal Fun Facts about Local Law Enforcement

LAUDERHILL, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- The City of Lauderhill has launched a new video campaign featuring local police officers sharing fun facts about themselves. The "I am Lauderhill-We are Lauderhill" segments are emailed to residents and other subscribers in the City's official newsletter, Lauderhill Living and posted on social media. City officials in collaboration with the consulting firm RMA (www.rma.us.com) developed a plan to foster stronger connections between the community and law enforcement by focusing on officers' local roots, hobbies, favorite sports teams, and music, along with other engaging aspects of their personalities.

"Through this campaign police officers reveal themselves as the neighbors, friends and family members they are," said Leslie Johnson, Director of Public Relations and Cultural Arts. "These videos have been a tremendous tool in our overall campaign to enhance the positive connection between our officers and residents."

RMA was hired to develop a strategic communications plan for the City, with special emphasis on creating new avenues to engage the community with law enforcement. This initiative was conceived well before the recent headlines, but its implementation has come at a most opportune time.

"During our biweekly collaborative meetings with the City's leadership, we agreed that it was imperative for Lauderhill's residents to feel comfortable calling the police not only in an emergency, but also to report critical information," said Sharon McCormick, RMA's Director of Business Attraction & Marketing. "The goal of this campaign, coupled with prior initiatives by the Lauderhill Police Department, is to change the preconceived notions that some residents had about police in general, by creating a safe environment for relationship-building."

The email and social media campaign also allows the police department to share success stories about cases closed through the very popular segment, "Just Don't, You Will Get Caught!" This section of the email showcases the dedication of local law enforcement in their pursuit of catching criminals, leading to a safe environment for their residents.

In addition, the campaign features regular messages from Chief Constance Stanley. As an African-American woman, who leads a large police force, her words resonate. Chief Stanley's impassioned letter to the community in the wake of George Floyd's death was a powerful message about racial injustice, the need for accountability, and an earnest plea for unity and dialogue. She has followed that message up with regular communications highlighting Lauderhill's comprehensive crime-fighting strategy, which is built on facilitating and maintaining positive communication and collaboration.

About RMA:

Founded in 2009 by Kim Briesemeister and Chris Brown, RMA is comprised of a phenomenal team of leading experts in economic development, real estate for governments, marketing, urban design, and financial analysis. RMA, headquartered in Pompano Beach, Florida is a highly experienced, full-service economic redevelopment consulting and management firm, specializing in revitalizing core areas and corridors for cities, counties, and special districts nationwide. The co-founders are also the authors of one of the definitive books about city redevelopment, "Reinventing Your City: 8 Steps to Turn Your City Around."

Learn more at: https://rma.us.com/

Media Contact:
Kay Renz
Kay@krprmediagroup.com

The City of Lauderhill, in collaboration with the consulting firm RMA, has launched a new video campaign featuring local police officers sharing fun facts about themselves. The "I am Lauderhill-We are Lauderhill" segments are emailed to residents and other subscribers in the City's official newsletter, Lauderhill Living and posted on social media.

Related link: http://www.rma.us.com/

Indiana 5G Zone Launches as First to Demonstrate Quantum-Safe Encryption as A Service for 5G IoT Systems

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. /ScoopCloud/ -- In September 2020, the quantum-safe XQ Message platform was successfully deployed at the Indiana 5G Zone's Advanced Innovation & Test Lab in a service configuration. Quantum-safe encryption ensures that data can be kept safe from existing data exfiltration as well as future quantum computing attacks. The Indiana 5G Zone is the first to demonstrate Quantum-safe Encryption as a Service (QEaaS) transparently protects and tracks IoT data as it moves across 5G infrastructure.

* The Indiana 5G Zone utilized XQ Message's crypto-agile platform to transparently encrypt IoT data and track movement via management system

* The Zone is planning to offer Quantum-safe Encryption as a Service (QEaaS) to academic and commercial 5G networks across America

The Indiana 5G Zone was established in partnership with the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) to leverage Indiana's developing digital infrastructure in order to catalyze innovation and support rapidly-developing companies. Its focus is on 5G solution architecture such as Advanced Manufacturing and Smart Communities. This initiative focuses on commercial 5G applications that provide cost savings and the creation of new service concepts. To date, the Zone has secured academic and manufacturing partnerships as well as 50 development partners.

XQ Message was selected by the Zone due to their ability to support a wide array of Quantum-safe algorithms and their management dashboard to provide the tracking and billing required for Quantum-safe Encryption as a Service (QEaaS). XQ provides IoT systems a crypto-agile Quantum-safe data protection solution that supports all of the new Quantum-safe algorithms currently being reviewed by NIST. Most importantly the Indiana 5G Zone plans to offer Quantum-safe Encryption as a service (QEaaS) to academic and commercial 5G networks across America.

"Within a very short time the Indiana 5G Zone has established an ecosystem that brings together over 50 local and global partners together. Our goal is to become the rapid innovation leader for dual-use, secure 5G technologies," said Sean Hendrix, Director of the Indiana 5G Zone.

"Protecting data must be the highest priority for 5G networks. The partnership between the Indiana 5G Zone and XQ to create a Quantum-safe encryption service is a national security achievement," said Bob Flores, Former CTO of the CIA, XQ Message Board Advisor.

"Indiana is committed to investing in emerging areas like 5G to position the state for long-term competitiveness and economic growth," said David Roberts, IEDC Chief Innovation Officer. "With this new initiative at the Indiana 5G Zone, the state will continue to attract more diverse companies to Indiana while leading in the development of 5G-enabled technologies."

"Public - public research partnerships with the Department of Defense and State initiatives such as the Indiana 5G Zone will be critical to reducing the cost and development time for 5G innovation," said Randy Clark, Vice Chair National Spectrum Consortium (NSC).

The rollout of this 5G initiative enables a new level of encryption security in our national data and communication infrastructure. The selection of XQ Message, a California startup, was based on their new type of API-based edge-encryption technology that is able to support all the algorithms that NIST is reviewing. XQ provides a future proof data protection solution for IoT systems by eliminating the need to write code as agents in 5G Gateways and MEC nodes automatically update the algorithms.

"We are excited to be selected by the Indiana 5G Zone as the platform for their Quantum-safe Encryption as a service (QEaaS). QEaaS is a breakthrough in simplicity and scale for IoT data protection that XQ looks forward to rolling out across America," said Brian Wane, CEO XQ Message.

Those interested in becoming a member of the Indiana 5G Zone should reach out to info@wherespeedmatters.com for more details. The lab welcomes all private, government, and academic entities, as well as students and individuals.

About Indiana 5G Zone

5G Zone is a cross-sector demonstration laboratory to help government, industry and academia, design and deliver groundbreaking testbed offerings.

Learn more at: https://wherespeedmatters.com/

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQMqsK7i3csFZFDdRecsxCw

Media contact: info@wherespeedmatters.com

About NineTwelve Institute

NineTwelve teams industry, government, and academia to meet critical technology needs. Its unique CoLab platform accelerates the design and implementation of emergent solutions. It does this by creating cross-sector collaborative networks that design and deliver groundbreaking solutions.

About XQ Message

XQ is an API-based data protection platform that can encrypt and track any type of data as it moves. XQ enables 5G IoT solution developers to support high scale mission critical applications. Learn more at: https://www.xqmsg.com/

In September 2020, the quantum-safe XQ Message platform was successfully deployed at the Indiana 5G Zone's Advanced Innovation & Test Lab in a service configuration. Quantum-safe encryption ensures that data can be kept safe from existing data exfiltration as well as future quantum computing attacks.

Related link: https://wherespeedmatters.com/

National Rural Water Association presents Idaho Rural Water Association with the 2020 State Association of the Year Award

BOISE, Idaho /ScoopCloud/ -- Idaho Rural Water Association (IRWA) earns the 2020 State Association of the Year Award in the Awards of Excellence competition awarded by National Rural Water Association (NRWA). This is the second time IRWA has earned this award since its incorporation in Idaho in 1987.

The competition consists of seven categories including Outstanding Achievement in Training; On-Site Technical Assistance; Communications Publications and Public Relations; Legislative Initiatives; Member Services and the most prestigious award of State Association of the Year.

Every year a five-member committee is tasked at selecting the state rural water association winners in each of these categories.

"We are honored to receive this prestigious award from National Rural Water Association," says Shelley Roberts, Chief Executive Officer of IRWA. "We are grateful to our members and others that support our Association so we can deliver high quality service to Idaho's rural water utilities and provide statewide training to Idaho's hard working drinking water and wastewater professionals."

About Idaho Rural Water Association

Idaho Rural Water Association (IRWA) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation providing training and technical assistance to drinking water and wastewater utility systems in Idaho with populations under 10,000. IRWA is currently comprised of over 365 direct member systems in Idaho. These members elect a seven-member Board of Directors that volunteer their time to govern the Association.

For more information, visit: https://www.idahoruralwater.com/

Media Contact:
Carrie Gilstrap
IRWA Membership & Marketing Coordinator
cgilstrap@idahoruralwater.com
208.343.7001

Idaho Rural Water Association (IRWA) earns the 2020 State Association of the Year Award in the Awards of Excellence competition awarded by National Rural Water Association (NRWA). This is the second time IRWA has earned this award since its incorporation in Idaho in 1987.

Related link: https://www.idahoruralwater.com/

NAES Southampton Power Station in Franklin, Virginia Receives the Virginia ‘Star’ Designation Under the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry’s Voluntary Protection Programs

RICHMOND, Va. /ScoopCloud/ -- Commissioner C. Ray Davenport announced today that NAES Southampton Power Station in Franklin, Virginia, has been recertified as a Virginia STAR Worksite under the Virginia's Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH) Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP), the agency's highest level of recognition for excellence in safety and health management systems. The facility was honored with its fourth recertification since being originally certified on December 13, 2004. NAES operates the biomass fueled Southampton Power Station which is owned by Dominion Energy, Inc.

"This outstanding achievement in occupational safety and health has come through the dedication and hard work of NAES Southampton Power Station employees and management. I commend NAES Southampton Power Station for embracing the cooperative spirit of VPP, and congratulate them on their hard earned recertification as a Virginia STAR Worksite," said Commissioner Davenport.

NAES Southampton Power Station's commitment to providing a safe and healthy workplace for its employees is demonstrated by its low injury and illness rates. The Franklin facility has a total three-year average for the TCIR (Total Case Incident Rate for injuries and illnesses) of 0.0 compared with a Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) national rate of 6.4, representing a TCIR rate 100% lower than the national average for the industry. The site's three-year average DART rate (Days Away, Restricted, or Transferred injury and illness cases) is 0.0, compared with the national rate of 2.1, which is 100% below the national average for the industry.

As part of the recognition for achieving Virginia STAR status under VPP, the worksite is entitled to fly the Virginia "STAR Worksite" flag. The NAES Southampton Power Station facility is the only STAR Worksite in Virginia for NAES and is one of two NAES VPP STAR sites currently in the United States.

Virginia businesses that participate in VPP substantially improve safety and health protections for thousands of Virginia employees through cooperative efforts to reduce injuries, illnesses, and fatal accidents. VPP STAR sites regularly report decreased bottom line costs associated with dramatically reduced injury and illness rates (an average of approximately 50% below the respective industry average), and improved productivity and employee morale. Reducing private sector employer costs associated with injuries, illnesses, and fatal accidents enhances a company's economic viability, competitiveness, and increases available capital for reinvestment, expansion, and new hiring.

VOSH operates six recognition programs. These include:

1 - Virginia STAR is a cooperative relationship between the VOSH program, the employer, and the employees that include the agreement of company leaders to operate exceptional safety and health management systems that meet a rigorous set of occupational safety and health criteria. Participating employers agree to voluntarily participate in the program and to directly involve employees in all aspects of the company's safety and health management systems. Requirements include an extensive application process, submission of written safety and health policies and procedures, demonstration of successful implementation of those programs through injury and illness rates that are below the national average for the employer's industry, and an intensive weeklong inspection by a team of VPP experts.

2 - Virginia BEST (Building Excellence in Safety, Health and Training) is a strategic partnership between the DOLI and the Associated General Contractors of Virginia that recognizes AGCVA members who voluntarily implement highly effective safety and health management systems to benefit construction workers and reduce or eliminate injuries, illnesses, and fatalities on construction sites in Virginia.

3 - Virginia BUILT is a new strategic partnership between the DOLI and the Associated Builders and Contractors of Virginia and is designed to encourage and recognize ABC-VA members who voluntarily implement highly effective safety and health management systems to benefit construction workers and reduce or eliminate injuries, illnesses, and fatalities on construction sites in Virginia. The Virginia BUILT program incorporates the ABC STEP program (Safety Training Evaluation Process) as the gateway to participation in Virginia BUILT.

4 - Virginia CHALLENGE is a formal three-stage recognition program that dramatically improves safety and health at the worksite and prepares the company to apply for Virginia STAR recognition.

5 - VOSH-VADOC CHALLENGE is a strategic partnership between the DOLI and the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) to recognize safety and health excellence at correctional facilities around the Commonwealth. Three stages of participation in VADOC Challenge prepare a site to apply for Virginia STAR recognition. Virginia has the only two correctional facilities in the nation to have received VPP STAR status, Augusta and Lunenburg Correctional Centers. For additional VPP information, contact Milford Stern, VPP Manager, at (540) 562-3580, ext. 123, or Milford.Stern@doli.virginia.gov.

6 - Virginia SHARP recognizes businesses of 250 employees or fewer and is administered by the DOLI VOSH Consultative Services Division. Contact Tracy Michaud, Consultation Program Manager, at (804) 786-8707 or tracy.michaud@doli.virginia.gov.

DOLI also offers free On-Site Consultation Services to help employers better understand and voluntarily comply with VOSH standards. Priority is given to high hazard workplaces with 250 or fewer employees and all services are offered to employers at no cost. On-Site Consultation Services helps employers identify and correct potential safety and health hazards by conducting walk-through surveys (without citations or penalties), abatement advice, on-site training, and program assistance to develop safety and health programs.

For additional information about On-Site Consultation Services visit https://www.doli.virginia.gov/vosh-programs/consultation/.

Commissioner C. Ray Davenport announced today that NAES Southampton Power Station in Franklin, Virginia, has been recertified as a Virginia STAR Worksite under the Virginia's Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH) Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP), the agency's highest level of recognition for excellence in safety and health management systems.

Related link: https://www.doli.virginia.gov/

Smart Growth Strategies in Pompano Beach Are Protecting City from COVID-19 Fiscal Stress

POMPANO BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- While other cities around the country are considering raising taxes, or already have, in response to budget shortfalls due to COVID-19, the Pompano Beach CRA has announced that residents of the City of Pompano Beach are experiencing one of the lowest tax rates in Broward County according to the recently released 2021 millage rates.

This financial stability is due in large part to the smart growth strategies that have been occurring in the City during the past few years. The City's investment in redevelopment and infrastructure has attracted quality private development bringing in new tax dollars and additional support for local businesses, allowing the City to maintain the tax rate.

"Leadership in Pompano Beach knew the importance of tapping into the City's real estate assets-- land and property, in order to create a more economically stable municipality," said Nguyen Tran, CRA Director. "By properly managing these assets and taking a proactive stance, we have been able to create new revenue streams to benefit the City and its residents, which also offer a layer of protection during unforeseen events like this pandemic."

Pompano Beach began its transformation in earnest in 2009. After decades of decline, a targeted, economically-driven plan was launched, making the City an attractive location to the private investment community. The City prepared for the growth by establishing development guidelines and zoning laws to protect the City from over development. This plan is working to eliminate blighted areas and enhance the quality of life for the community.

Developments such as Koi, Sabbia, Heritage at Pompano Station, Avery Place and the new restaurants and retailers at the Pier such as Beach House and Oceanic have added approximately $166 million in new property valuation and more than $1 million dollars in new property tax revenue to the City over the past few years. Between 2015 and 2019, the City has seen an increase of approximately $39 million or 39% in major tax and fee revenue sources including property taxes, half-cent sales taxes, state municipal revenue sharing, franchise and utility taxes, franchise fees and communication service taxes.

These enhanced revenue streams have allowed the City to maintain its financial stability even through the trying times of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2021 millage rates were recently released, and out of 31 cities in Broward County, Pompano Beach is the 6th largest, yet it has the 11th lowest tax rate, according to the Broward County Property Appraiser's Office.

"Without the strategic growth policies that attracted this private investment, we would be under tremendous fiscal stress right now," continued Tran. "The economic impact of good growth has been extremely important for the long-term success of our City and the prosperity of our residents."

This development has been carefully managed to maximize the benefits including a strong tax base, job growth and small business support, while also addressing important resident concerns by regulating building height, creating walkable spaces and connectivity between projects and exploring ride sharing initiatives to manage traffic congestion and enhance mobility. Cities who invest in their public assets and build quality amenities for their residents tend to be the most fiscally stable. The City and CRA's investment in our public assets have been instrumental in attracting private sector investment.

About the Pompano Beach CRA:

The City of Pompano Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) was created in 1989. It has two independent districts: Northwest CRA and East CRA established by City government for the purpose of carrying out redevelopment activities that include reducing or eliminating blight, improving the economic health of an area, and encouraging public and private investments in a CRA district.

The Pompano Beach CRA is funded through Tax Increment Financing (TIF). The funds are collected as property values increase and a portion of that increase is captured by the Agency. TIF raises revenue for redevelopment efforts without raising taxes. For more information http://www.pompanobeachfl.gov/pages/cra

Media Contact:
Kay Renz
Kay@KRPRmediagroup.com

While other cities around the country are considering raising taxes, or already have, in response to budget shortfalls due to COVID-19, the Pompano Beach CRA has announced that residents of the City of Pompano Beach are experiencing one of the lowest tax rates in Broward County according to the recently released 2021 millage rates.

September is National Preparedness Month: Statewide Mutual Aid Network Provides 24/7 Response to Illinois Communities

ST. CHARLES, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- Communities are continuing clean-up efforts following the summer's severe weather events, says Illinois Public Works Mutual Aid Network. This includes an Aug. 10 storm classified by the National Weather Service as a Derecho (a long-lived line of thunderstorms and intense winds) that produced widespread damage to trees, power lines, buildings, and vehicles from hurricane-force winds and 11 tornadoes.

Five Northern Illinois communities - Lombard, Oglesby, Villa Park, Spring Valley and Grant Park - received recovery assistance through their membership in the Illinois Public Works Mutual Aid Network (IPWMAN), a statewide organization that offers a standardized mutual aid agreement as a framework for communities to help each other prepare and recover from natural and man-made disasters. In total, 23 other IPWMAN member communities provided aid to those five cities and villages.

Formed in 2009 in response to revised guidelines issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) following 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina, IPWMAN provides three primary benefits to members.

#1: Access to statewide resources, including equipment, expertise and people power.

IPWMAN's membership has grown from three members in 2009 to over 400 organizations in 2020 - including counties, cities, towns, villages and townships, as well as a sanitary district and a water district - serving populations that range from fewer than 500 to more than 5 million residents.

#2: Coordinated response.

IPWMAN members receive the first 5 days of disaster support at no cost. Requests for assistance go to an IPWMAN Call Center, available 24/7 and staffed by trained public works duty officers who coordinate requests and assistance to efficiently provide necessary resources.

#3: Training opportunities.

IPWMAN provides training for its members, with opportunities ranging from an annual conference that offers information on a variety of emergency response topics to meeting with others who have worked or will be working with them during emergency responses. Other training provided throughout the year includes participating in disaster simulation exercises with other organizations, offering opportunities to learn about and from those other mutual aid organizations.

Learn more about IPWMAN: https://www.ipwman.org/

See all members by county or region: https://www.ipwman.org/member-agencies

Communities are continuing clean-up efforts following the summer's severe weather events, says Illinois Public Works Mutual Aid Network. This includes an Aug. 10 storm classified by the National Weather Service as a Derecho that produced widespread damage to trees, power lines, buildings, and vehicles from hurricane-force winds and 11 tornadoes.

Related link: https://www.ipwman.org/

Reonix Technologies Announces Budget Relief Program for Municipalities

DULUTH, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- Reonix Technologies LLC has announced a new program offering to municipality's water, wastewater and utilities sectors. With economic uncertainties and confusing social distancing protocols, budgets across the nation are being slashed and unemployment is trending upwards. The result is lower employee numbers and higher stress for those left to maintain day-to-day operations.

* Remote access and alarm notification to reduce employee hours on location
* No upfront costs, contracts or installation fees
* Receive alerts and view processes on a smartphone or web browser

This program would seek to offer relief from budget cuts that have reduced employee numbers with technologies to view operations on a smartphone app or web browser. This would enable employees to monitor multiple sites at once, and focus on plants or stations that need it most. Alarm notifications are sent via email, text or voice and daily reports can be emailed or downloaded online. This leasing program includes SCADADroid(R) R2+ or R2A+ hardware and services to enable alarm dialing, remote access and datalogging with no upfront capital or contract.

The stress involved with travel time, increased hours and a smaller workforce can be mitigated with insight into a plant or lift stations operations, directly on a smartphone app or web browser. Dependant on the existing systems, the availability for controls of plant operations are also possible.

"This system is a fantastic way to view multiple sites at a glance, or even respond to alarms and notifications," said Allan Erion, President.

This leasing program includes SCADADroid(R) R2+ or R2A+ (alarm dialer units) and SCADADroid(R) Dashboard (IoT platform), antenna, installation and support. Customers may use their own SIM/phone plan, or one from Reonix Technologies. The SCADADroid(R) R2+ and R2A+ include unlimited contacts, shift scheduling, hardwired inputs/outputs, Modbus TCP capability, Ethernet, and data reporting. The Dashboard platform offers a data historian, real-time data and a colour-coded status map. With this low cost leasing package, municipalities can save money and time. By saving 3 site visits a week, you can save up to 10x the cost of SCADADroid(R).

More information: https://reonix.com/municipal-leasing-program/

About Reonix Technologies:

Reonix Technologies established as a systems integrator in 2002, has since focused on manufacturing of edge computing and IoT (Internet of Things) products and services. Offering robust alarm dialers with data analytics, reporting and logging as well as remote access and monitoring. Reonix Technologies is constantly evolving SCADADroid(R) alarm dialer technology to include the most effective M2M protocols. With two locations in North America, Reonix Technologies provides personal service with a widespread reach. Learn more: https://reonix.com/

"Products are excellent, and what absolutely tops the products, the support. None better!" says Jeffrey G.

IMAGE LINK FOR MEDIA:
*PHOTO: https://reonix.com/Images/SCADADroid%2Bmap.png

Reonix Technologies LLC has announced a new program offering to municipality's water, wastewater and utilities sectors. With economic uncertainties and confusing social distancing protocols, budgets across the nation are being slashed and unemployment is trending upwards. The result is lower employee numbers and higher stress for those left to maintain day-to-day operations.

Related link: https://reonix.com/

Dogs Trapped in Hot Cars – The Sacramento SPCA is Helping Keep Pets Safe

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- As the Sacramento region heads into an extremely hot week, one local animal welfare organization is taking action to help animals left in hot cars. The Sacramento SPCA is providing thermometers to all animal control officers in Sacramento County in an effort to prevent animals from suffering and dying in hot cars and to hold those who caused this suffering accountable.

Each year police and animals control officers in our community respond to hundreds of calls about animals - most often dogs - left in hot cars. These are reported by Good Samaritans who hear the animals crying for help or, in the worst cases, notice an animal that has passed out or stopped breathing. California law now allows these Good Samaritans to break into the vehicle under certain circumstances.

"We need the community to know that there are consequences to leaving an animal in a car - no matter the reason," said Kenn Altine, CEO of the Sacramento SPCA. "The consequences for the animal are horrific," he said, "but too often the person is not held accountable."

Altine said the thermometers, which are certified tested and calibrated, will allow the animal control officers to accurately capture the ambient air temperature in the vehicle as part of their evidence collection.

"By having a reliable and accurate recording of the temperature using a certified thermometer, we can better hold the people accountable for their actions," said Sacramento County DDA Hilary Bagley-Franzoia. The Sacramento County District Attorney handles cases of animals left in cars.

They've already had several cases this year, including an animal who was left in a car where the temperature reached 130 degrees, causing the animal to have seizures, neuropathy and to bleed through its skin and paws. Forty-five minutes after the animal was freed from the car, its internal temperature was still 108 degrees (normal body temperature for dogs and cats is 101 to 102.5 degrees).

About the Sacramento SPCA:

Founded in 1892, the Sacramento SPCA has been providing homeless animals with individual comfort, shelter, and love for more than 128 years. They provide compassionate medical care to tens of thousands of animals annually and offer a variety of programs and services designed to keep people and pets together for life.

Learn more:
* https://www.sspca.org
* https://www.facebook.com/SacSPCA/
* https://www.instagram.com/sacramento_spca/
* https://www.twitter.com/SacramentoSPCA

MEDIA CONTACT: Dawn Foster, Sacramento SPCA Marketing & Communications Director dfoster@sspca.org or (916) 802-0915

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0623s2p-sspca-hot-dog-300dpi.jpg
*Photo caption: The Sacramento SPCA is providing thermometers to all animal control officers in Sacramento County.

As the Sacramento region heads into an extremely hot week, one local animal welfare organization is taking action to help animals left in hot cars. The Sacramento SPCA is providing thermometers to all animal control officers in Sacramento County.

Related link: https://www.sspca.org/

RMA Offers a COVID-19 Economic Recovery Playbook for Government Leaders

POMPANO BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- For over a decade, RMA (www.rma.us.com) has been guiding city and county leaders through the "reinvention" process using a strategic multistep approach to help communities overcome economic obstacles. Now, as cities struggle to address the economic impacts of COVID-19, the firm has created a Recovery Playbook for municipal leaders, outlining a customizable plan to help cities recover quickly. Learn more: https://rma.us.com/recovery-playbook/

"Understandably, many city leaders are overwhelmed by the convergence of problems and the realization there is no boilerplate solution," said RMA co-founder Chris Brown. "However, there is a structured approach for developing a tailored plan which we layout in our Recovery Playbook."

RMA's Recovery Playbook will help city leaders switch modes from survival to recovery to growth with these 3 Steps:

1. Set up an Economic Development Recovery Team & Structure

2. Pinpoint Your City's Economic Opportunities & Threats

3. Create the Recovery Strategy with Specific Action Items for Your City's Needs

"Most cities are now establishing a core economic development recovery team," said RMA co-founder Kim Briesemeister. "But the team must have a designated point person and structure. Their first mission should be an immediate assessment of where the largest impacts will be within the business community that will affect the city's tax base."

Many cities will feel the full brunt of the economic downturn next year, so it is imperative to understand where major issues lie in order to establish effective measures for true economic recovery, on both short-term and long-term levels.

When implementing triage measures, Briesemeister and Brown emphasize that leaders may not want to rely on presumed immediate fixes, such as city-sponsored grants or financial programs, without first evaluating the long-term ramifications.

Cities may face major revenue shortfalls from different sectors as well, so the Playbook suggests looking at three key areas for threats and opportunities: Mainstreet, Real Estate Assets and Industry Clusters that are unique to each city.

"This assessment will pinpoint risks but will also highlight possible new solutions," she said. "For example, the loss of a large retail or industrial tenant may open business attraction possibilities for a modified grocery distribution center closer to the city center."

"Disruption always leads to new innovations," said Briesemeister, whose firm has attracted over $1 billion worth of private sector investment to their city clients, which continued even during the last recession.

The goal is to help leaders formulate a series of tailored economic initiatives to guide local businesses though the difficult times, while harnessing the assets that demonstrate the potential to become economic engines.

The Playbook also includes a Special Section that ponders three topics for cities to "self -assess," including reexamining land use codes, refocusing on the 'village mentality,' and refining the operational processes at City Hall.

For those interested in learning more about the RMA Economic Recovery Playbook, please visit https://rma.us.com/recovery-playbook/

About RMA:

Founded in 2009 by Kim Briesemeister and Chris Brown, RMA is comprised of a phenomenal team of leading experts in economic development, real estate, marketing, urban design and financial analysis. RMA, headquartered in Pompano Beach, Florida is a highly experienced, full-service economic redevelopment consulting and management firm, specializing in revitalizing core areas and corridors for cities, counties and special districts nationwide. The co-founders are also the authors of one of the definitive books about city redevelopment, "Reinventing Your City: 8 Steps to Turn Your City Around."

Media Contact:
Kay Renz, for RMA
Kay@KRPRmediagroup.com
561-654-8151

For over a decade, RMA has been guiding city and county leaders through the "reinvention" process using a strategic multistep approach to help communities overcome economic obstacles. Now, as cities struggle to address the economic impacts of COVID-19, the firm has created a Recovery Playbook for municipal leaders.

Related link: http://www.rma.us.com/

South Central Iowa Community Steps Up to Support Senior Care Center

OSCEOLA, Iowa /ScoopCloud/ -- Since the WHO announced the Coronavirus / COVID-19 pandemic status in early March, long-term care facilities have been on the front lines of the health and safety battle, notes the Clarke County Development Corporation (CCDC). With senior citizens being some of the most "at risk" from the virus, the need for protective gear - from essential N95 hospital-grade face-masks to personal protective equipment (PPE), like gloves and gowns - have been in high demand and access has been limited. That's where the manufacturing community in Clarke County and Osceola, Iowa stepped up.

Earlier in the week, the Clarke County Development Corporation (CCDC) started working with the staff at Southern Hills Specialty Care facility in Osceola to procure additional essential supplies to help with the safety and protection of their 89 senior residents. Asking for donations or additional support from the manufacturing industry, Bill Trickey, Executive Director of the CCDC and Destiny Boeve, Administrator for Southern Hills were able to collect a generous supply of masks as well as some other essential items.

Altec's Osceola body plant was instrumental in donations, providing 3,000 latex gloves for the facility. And SIMCO Drilling Equipment, Inc, donated a surplus of high-grade masks and gloves as soon as the call was made.

"Having been part of the Osceola and Clarke County community for decades, we simply wanted to help wherever we could," said Darren Swolley, General Manager at SIMCO. "These are the times when community means more than ever."

Other local businesses, including Cathy's Auto Body and Cactus Farms, were also quick to join in the roundup of supplies. The team at Boyt Harness donated thousands of masks from their Missouri plant to hospitals and facilities in need there.

"This is what makes my job such a pleasure," said Trickey. "When the community is in need, our business network knows how to deliver."

Southern Hills staff members, residents, family members and friends alike have joined together to help with the cause, sewing from mask templates for residents and staffers to use while other donation efforts are in the works. Boeve's own grandmother, Kathy Klein sewed 100 masks for the staff and is working on washable gowns for the program. Southern Hills staffer and CNA, Amy Allen brought her seamstress talents back in her off hours just to help with the production as well.

With the influx of masks and gloves, the need for other safety materials has become a priority. Materials for sewing additional masks as well as gowns and other PPEs are still needed to help the staff properly care for the residents.

"We couldn't be more blessed," said Boeve. "Our community really knows how to come together in a time of crisis."

Boeve went on to stress the need for basic sewing materials like needles and thread for additional masks for mending gowns. And the donation of more N95 masks, gowns, or PPEs remains on the priority list for the foreseeable future.

If you have access to the items needed for the care of the residents at Southern Hills or have items you can donate, please reach out to Destiny Boeve at Southern Hills Care Center, 444 N W View Drive, Osceola, IA 50213, phone: 641-342-6061.

Learn more about the Clarke County Development Corporation (CCDC): https://osceolaclarkedev.com/

Since the WHO announced the Coronavirus / COVID-19 pandemic status in early March, long-term care facilities have been on the front lines of the health and safety battle, notes the Clarke County Development Corporation (CCDC).

Related link: https://osceolaclarkedev.com/

Kroger, Mattress Mack and Mayor Sylvester Turner Announce Partnership on Senior Needs Drive for 10,000 Seniors

HOUSTON, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- The Kroger Company (NYSE: KR) along with Mattress Mack of Gallery Furniture and Mayor Turner announced their partnership to feed over 10,000 seniors in need.

"There is an extremely large number of housebound seniors in our community who don't have access to the food and supplies they need," said Joe Kelley, President of Kroger Houston. "While many people can make a weekly trip to the grocery store, this specific group of individuals cannot. We want to make sure that our seniors are taken care of by ensuring they are fed and their pantries are full. These are people's parents and grandparents - and they need our help. That's why we wanted to get involved in the senior drive alongside Mack and Mayor Turner. Together, we can make a bigger impact in fighting hunger in our communities."

Customers can donate non-perishable food at any Houston area Kroger store or at Gallery Furniture 6006 N. Freeway or Gallery Furniture Grand Parkway every day from 8 a.m. - 10 p.m. Gallery Furniture is also accepting donations of cleaning supplies and toiletries.

"We are living in an unprecedented time that is affecting various areas of our communities in different ways. Many Houstonians are asking - what can we do to help?" said Mayor Sylvester Turner. "This is one easy way you can support those in need within our local community, whether it's through donating food and supplies or volunteering your time. We are Houston Strong, and helping is what we do best."

"Gallery Furniture would like to personally thank Kroger and the City of Houston for the incredible donations and continued support," said Mattress Mack. "Thousands have already benefited from the generosity of amazing Houstonians and we will continue to do our best to lead these efforts. Stay strong, stay safe, and remember the essence of living is giving!"

About The Kroger Co.

At The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR), we are Fresh for Everyone(TM) and dedicated to our Purpose: To Feed the Human Spirit(R). We are, across our family of companies, nearly half a million associates who serve over 11 million customers daily through a seamless shopping experience under a variety of banner names. We are committed to creating #ZeroHungerZeroWaste communities by 2025. To learn more about us, visit our newsroom and investor relations site.

Kroger newsroom: https://www.thekrogerco.com/newsroom/

About Gallery Furniture

Mattress Mack and the Gallery Furniture Family believe in hard work and community outreach. Jim McIngvale "Mattress Mack" and his wife Linda arrived in Houston in 1981 with $5000 and a dream. With great work ethic and perseverance, the couple became Houston's favorite furniture and mattress retailer. Houston has come to know that Mattress Mack has their back, and not only will he SAVE YOU MONEY but continues his calling to provide for his beloved city. Learn more: https://www.galleryfurniture.com/

Media Contacts:
The Kroger Co:
Clara Campbell (936) 777-0442

Gallery Furniture:
Angelica Folliard (713) 552-3461

City of Houston Press Office:
(832) 393-0830

IMAGE Links for Media:
Photo: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0330s2p-senior-relief-drive-300dpi.jpg

Logo: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0330s2p-kroger-logo-300dpi.jpg

The Kroger Company (NYSE: KR) along with Mattress Mack of Gallery Furniture and Mayor Turner announced their partnership to feed over 10,000 seniors in need. “There is an extremely large number of housebound seniors in our community who don’t have access to the food and supplies they need,” said Joe Kelley, President of Kroger Houston.

Related link: https://www.thekrogerco.com/

North Miami Beach Commissioner Michael Joseph has been selected as a 2020 Miami Times ‘New Generation of Dreamers’

NORTH MIAMI BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Miami Times has selected North Miami Beach Commissioner Michael Joseph, Esq. to join the Class of 2020's "Next Generation of Dreamers." Joseph is being recognized for his leadership in resolving a water billing controversy affecting nearly 200,000 customers throughout Northern Miami-Dade County served by the city's water utility.

The Miami Times featured an interview with Michael Joseph in the 2020 "Next Generation of Dreamers" Special Supplement inserted inside its February 26 issue. The interview describes Commissioner Joseph's upbringing as the "Leader from humble beginnings dreams big" and his efforts to resolve a water billing controversy as his first major action after being elected to the North Miami Beach city commission in November 2018.

The water billing controversy burdened fixed-income households served by the city's water utility with increased water bills and a new monthly pay schedule from the previous quarterly schedule. The water bills were often three or four times higher than before. Water customers were furious. The neighboring city of Miami Gardens sued the city citing unfair practices.

As The Miami Times reports, "He heard the pleas of seniors who couldn't afford their water bills and acted."

Commissioner Joseph explained to The Miami Times that "On Sept. 17, my proposal to restore quarterly billing by NMB Water was approved and adopted."

"This was exciting news and means water bills will effectively decrease throughout the year. The vote lifted a burden for nearly 200,000 customers in Miami Gardens, Aventura, Sunny Isles, and throughout North-Dade whose bills were three or four times that amount," concluded Commissioner Joseph.

Read the complete interview with Commissioner Michael Joseph in The Miami Times here: https://www.miamitimesonline.com/news/michael-joseph-fights-for-the-people-and-wins/article_53404fc6-5970-11ea-bad4-b75b06f83b65.html

Read Commissioner Joseph's article about the resolution to the water billing controversy here: https://www.michaeljosephnmb.com/post/we-did-it-nmb-water-returning-to-quarterly-billing-schedule

About The Miami Times Newspaper:

The Miami Times, the oldest and largest Black newspaper in the South, annually selects and highlights those in our community who display in their daily efforts, qualities that emulate the works of the late Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and other Black History makers. King used his early adulthood to organize ways to improve his community and has inspired millions to imitate or advance his mission.

These "New Generation of Dreamers" are people who use positions and platforms available to them to advance and improve the Black community. Their efforts sometimes fly under the radar of others, which illuminates the selflessness of the tasks they undertake.

Other 2020 Miami Times "Next Generation of Dreamers" include: Former Miami Heat Basketball Power Forward Udonis Haslem, Marketing Executive JaMarlin Martin, Psychiatrist Dr. Delvena Thomas, Filmmaker Elijah Wells, 6-year old oral hygiene advocate MaKynLee Elise, and Beauty Entrepreneur Melanie Fields. The Miami Times website is: https://www.MiamiTimesOnline.com

About Commissioner Michael Joseph, Esq.:

Commissioner Michael Joseph, Esq. is an attorney who champions civil rights and land use cases at the law firm of Galbut Walters and Associates. He is an inaugural member of the 5000 Role Models of Excellence program, a Thurgood Marshall law fellow and group seven commissioner of North Miami Beach, elected in 2018.

For more information or inquiries, visit his website at https://www.MichaelJosephNMB.com

Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/votemjoseph

Follow on Instagram @votemjoseph https://www.instagram.com/votemjoseph

Follow on Twitter: @votemjoseph https://www.twitter.com/votemjoseph

The Miami Times has selected North Miami Beach Commissioner Michael Joseph, Esq. to join the Class of 2020's "Next Generation of Dreamers." Joseph is being recognized for his leadership in resolving a water billing controversy affecting nearly 200,000 customers throughout Northern Miami-Dade County served by the city's water utility.

Related link: https://www.michaeljosephnmb.com/

$675 Billion Reasons to ‘Declare Your Share!’ with Upcoming 2020 Decennial Census

BURTONSVILLE, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- U.S. Census Bureau, Maryland Attorney General Brian Frosh, Montgomery County Councilmember Tom Hucker and AARP Maryland State President Jim Campbell Join Forces to promote senior participation in upcoming 2020 Decennial Census.

Event held at a community center in an area that is predicted to be undercounted; will highlight community programming funded by census dollars.

Who:
* Brian Frosh, Attorney General, State of Maryland
* Tom Hucker, District 5 Councilmember, Montgomery County Council
* Jim Campbell, AARP Maryland State President
* Maria Sofia, Executive Associate, Maryland Department of Planning
* Erin Smith, Montgomery County Area Agency on Aging
* Officials from the U.S. Census Bureau will also be in attendance.

What: Senior Census Awareness Event
When: Monday, February 24, 2020 at 10:30 a.m.
Where: Marilyn J. Praisner Community Recreation Center, Social Hall, 14906 Old Columbia Pike, Burtonsville, MD 20866
Why: Participation In the 2020 Census is Safe, Easy and Important!

BACKGROUND
April 1 is Census Day! The first United States (U.S.) Decennial Census was conducted in 1790. So the upcoming 2020 Census marks the 24th time that the U. S. has made a headcount of all residents in the Country as required by the constitution. Article 1, Section 2 requires that a census be carried-out every 10 years.

The results of the head count will determine allocation of $675 billion dollars of federal government funds to states, protectorates, and, the District of Columbia; as well as apportionment in state houses and the U.S. House of Representatives. Census results influence how dollars are allocated to local communities to fund specific needs, including roads, hospitals, emergency services, senior citizen centers, job training programs, and; Medicare Part B health insurance. It is estimated that Maryland lost nearly $1BN due to undercounts in hard to reach communities during the 2010 census.

Seniors are historically among the most undercounted groups during. It's important that we remind them that participation in the Census is Easy, Safe and Important! Soon, the Census Bureau will begin a process to invite people to respond to the 2020 Census. This year, respondents have the option be counted by paper questionnaire, telephone response, or online response (including smart phones).

For more information on the 2020 Census or to register for updates, go to https://www.2020census.gov/

QUOTES:

"The Census Bureau is committed to ensuring that all U.S. residents are counted once, only once and in the right place", says Fernando Gordon, Deputy Director of the U.S. Census Bureau. "We applaud all of our partners, including Maryland Attorney General Brian Frosh; Montgomery County; Montgomery County District 5 Councilmember Tom Hucker; and AARP Maryland State President Jim Campbell for their outstanding commitment towards ensuring a complete count in all communities - especially those that are historically undercounted. Today, we especially encourage seniors in Montgomery County, Maryland to be counted in the upcoming Decennial Census!

"By the time of the next census in the year 2030, there will be more Americans over the age of 65 than under the age of 18. Communities are going to have to prepare infrastructure, services and supports to accommodate this historic shift in demographics and will require every federal dollar they are entitled to in order to do so," says AARP Maryland State President Jim Campbell. "That is why AARP Maryland is urging all residents to 'Declare Your Share' and participate in the 2020 census."

For More Information Contact:
Nancy Carr, AARP Maryland
443-787-5382
ncarr@aarp.org

Learn more about AARP at: https://states.aarp.org/maryland/

U.S. Census Bureau, Maryland Attorney General Brian Frosh, Montgomery County Councilmember Tom Hucker and AARP Maryland State President Jim Campbell Join Forces to promote senior participation in upcoming 2020 Decennial Census.

Related link: https://states.aarp.org/maryland/

Community Identity: Stemming the Tide of Homogenization through Custom Design

EVESHAM, N.J. /ScoopCloud/ -- Drive down almost any suburban highway, and you will be greeted by a sea of sameness. McDonald's, Dunkin Donuts, Wells Fargo, Target, etc. You could be anywhere. But soon, when you drive into or fly over Evesham Township, however, you will be greeted by an embodiment of the township seal. Catalyst Experiential and Evesham Township worked together on the design, which fulfills a township goal to have a unique Landmark letting you know that you are entering Evesham.

Pete Henry, lead designer for Catalyst, noted, "We started playing with the concept of the town seal, and really fell in love with the idea of creating a physical manifestation of the seal. We started to envision the township seal as something that would identify the township even if you were flying over or looking at the satellite view in Google Earth."

This concept led to a triangular Landmark that sits atop a 4,200-square-foot reflecting pool, surrounded by an 88-foot-wide circle with the township name and location. The Landmark features visual communications technology on two sides, and a smaller version of the community seal on the third. A transparent dome sits atop the structure, and will feature subtle lighting that changes based upon the barometric pressure. Vibrant landscaping with over 17,000 plants, including evergreen trees, shrubbery, and flowers, will enhance the experience.

The new Landmark will replace an obsolete gas and service station that has been a well-known community eyesore. Leah Furey-Brueder, Township Planner for Evesham, related, "As we've looked at redevelopment over the past several years, that service station has crossed our mind on several occasions. Sitting at the entrance to Evesham Township, it's the first thing people see when they enter. The reason we never did a redevelopment or rehabilitation designation for the site is that, when you look at that site, we couldn't figure out what we could do with it."

"This project was ideal for Catalyst," explained Amanda Toton, VP of Development, Catalyst Experiential. "Our installations are unique in that we can design something for almost any space, enabling us to revitalize land by replacing an existing use with something more desirable to the community."

The property is less than an acre, which is too small for most modern uses. And, it has a triangular shape and a lot of frontage on the roadway. Leah notes that, "Essentially, it was suited to an old-style gas station and little else." So, when Catalyst Experiential approached to discuss transforming the parcel with a community Landmark, complete with abundant landscaping and water feature, Leah was willing to listen.

Rain runoff will supply the reflection pool, as well as be the primary source of irrigation for the landscaping. The township will have access to the two digital displays to share community information as well as emergency alerts. The new plan also eliminates two curb cuts, increasing safety by reducing traffic that might otherwise be entering the busy roadway.

The new Landmark will fulfill many elements that Evesham had specifically outlined in its 2020 Vision Plan, including conserving open space, preserving natural resources, and promoting public health and safety.

Leah commented on the productive partnership with Catalyst, "Their initial plan met many elements of our vision plan. And, when we asked whether they could provide some additional benefits, they did." For instance, the township recommended sidewalks, and Catalyst agreed to install as part of the plan. And, the township also inquired about solar panels to help power the displays, and Catalyst is developing plans for how to incorporate.

The Landmark was approved on at a zoning board meeting on January 27 that was attended by several community members who expressed enthusiasm for the project. Leighanne Ratcliffe, of Greenhill Court, summed up the view of many in attendance, "I'm proud to live here, and having something that beautiful, and with the landscaping-it's a win for the community."

Learn more at: https://www.catalystex.com/

*IMAGE link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0206s2p-ce-evesham-300dpi.jpg
Caption: The Evesham Landmark is a larger than life town seal.

Drive down almost any suburban highway, and you will be greeted by a sea of sameness. McDonald's, Dunkin Donuts, Wells Fargo, Target, etc. You could be anywhere. But soon, when you drive into or fly over Evesham Township, however, you will be greeted by an embodiment of the township seal. Catalyst Experiential and Evesham Township worked together on the design.

Related link: https://www.catalystex.com/

HWPL Finally Here to Beautify California

SAN JOSE, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- On Jan 26, 2020 a non-profit volunteer organization called Heavenly Culture, World Peace Restoration of Light (HWPL) had joined forces with the city of San Jose to beautify the community and the parks of San Jose.

What kind of results can an international peace organization do for the community of San Jose? The results would be partnering up with the San Jose City to create volunteerism of 100 people to clean and beautify a local park that is known and loved dearly. All in a matter of a few days of planning prior to the event.

Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light, colloquially referred to as HWPL, is a non-profit, non-governmental international peace organization. Although it was initially established in Seoul, South Korea, the peace group has branches located in over 200 countries, including one now established in the Northern California region.

As a group working alongside the United Nations to achieve global peace, HWPL collaborates with the International Women's Peace Group (IWPG) and the International Peace Youth Group (IPYG) as the organization's wings in accomplishing international tranquility. HWPL, within the last five years since the establishment of the organization, has found much success in achieving their goals toward peace and volunteerism. The HWPL volunteer programs are recognized as one of the most successful and active volunteer associations around the world.

With over 100 volunteers participating last Sunday, local neighbors, friends, and family filled bags of trash and debris to prevent pollution from washing into the creek and around the city park. With the help of the city providing supplies such as litter sticks, pairs of gloves, volunteer vests, and trash bags, HWPL volunteers were able to diligently give back to the community. Staff members gathered from 2:30 p.m. to collect the equipment and set up booths to distribute tools to pick up trash.

Participants started from 3 p.m. until sundown. Not only is the work of collecting the trash and debris beautifying the community, but it also helps with the anti-graffiti and anti-litter programs of San Jose in their mission to improve the health of the city's environment. This is done by preventing and removing trash throughout the neighborhood.

Arena Green Park, across the street from the San Jose Sharks stadium, is located in the heart of Downtown San Jose. Within the Silicon Valley, many residents struggle financially with the high cost of living beside the affluent, middle-class community. Despite the city's proactive approach to help the low-income and homeless citizens, some residents still face dire poverty.

"One of the biggest problems that the parks face are the trash produced by the homeless community. This is seen at Arena Green Park especially, where sports fans from all over the world visit," one HWPL volunteer stated. "It seems to be a never-ending problem."

With a goal of creating a cleaner and less-polluted environment for the people of San Jose, HWPL strives to collaborate with the city of San Jose to create a beautiful home for the residents of the city. Regardless of gender, race, religion, or political differences, the peace volunteer organization encompasses the human desire to volunteer and lend a helping hand.

Media Contact:
Jewoo Lee
sfhwpl@gmail.com

Anchor Links:
http://hwpl.kr/

https://www.facebook.com/hwpl.kr/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R7zKCliSz18&feature=share

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/1zjxvkXdgdA

On Jan 26, 2020 a non-profit volunteer organization called Heavenly Culture, World Peace Restoration of Light (HWPL) had joined forces with the city of San Jose to beautify the community and the parks of San Jose.

Related link: http://hwpl.kr/

CONCRETE JUNGLE NO MORE – Catalyst Experiential to Bring Green Space Along Pennsauken, NJ Corridor

NEWTOWN SQUARE, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ — The Township of Pennsauken, New Jersey, in public private partnership with Catalyst Experiential, will bring some much needed green space back to the heavily commercial Pennsauken corridor in the form of two Community Landmarks, a Clocktower on Route 38 and a Monument on Marlton Pike. More than 70% of the land along Route 38 and 70 is zoned commercial, and commercial land can be 85% “impervious” – meaning concrete and asphalt as opposed to landscaping and greenery.

In keeping with that zoning, the actual percentage of impervious surfaces on the commercial land is. . . 85%. Further, businesses maximize the amount of impervious surface for buildings, parking lots, sidewalks, and other things that enable their business to flourish or allow people to get to them.

Catalyst Experiential is working with Pennsauken to introduce nature along two parcels. The first, a Clocktower on Route 38, will replace a car stereo installation shop that occupies an unsightly 1960s single-story purple building. The site, which is almost entirely covered in concrete, will be demolished, and the property will be converted into a vibrant green space with an extensive water feature. The current cold, uninviting concrete building will be transformed into an enticing Clocktower constructed of living plants, an extensive water feature, township identification, and, of course, a clock.

The second is a Monument on Marlton Pike that will replace a closed rug store. It will include a pond as well as township identification.

Amanda Toton, VP of Development for Catalyst Experiential, noted, “The projects both uniquely identify Pennsauken Township, welcome visitors, and revitalize two underutilized parcels in the community.”

The structures each feature high quality digital displays that, in addition to advertising, will be used by the Township as a communication platform that enables quick information-sharing with local residents about community events and other important messages, free of charge.

“Both of these sites have been on our wish list to revitalize,” said, Betsy McBride, former Mayor and a member of the Pennsauken Township Committee. “We are very excited to not only revitalize them, but to transform them into much needed green space in our community.”

The structures fall in line with the Pennsauken Green Team initiative that consists of residents and municipal employees who have a strong interest in the environment and who work towards making Pennsauken Township more sustainable.

The Township participates in Community Visioning, by which residents envision the future they want through meaningful public participation. Stakeholders imagine where they would like the community to be in 10 or 20 years. This shared vision creates the basis for developing goals and completing actions that move the municipality toward a more ideal, sustainable community. This vision is moving towards more green space in the area, with the transformation of two underutilized concrete spaces.

RMA Reveals Behind-the-Scenes Strategies that Helped Secure Amazon Deal for City of Deltona

POMPANO BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- RMA (www.rma.us.com) has now revealed the international deal-making that was required to secure an Amazon (NASDAQ: AMZN) distribution center as the anchor for the new Portland Industrial Park in Deltona, Florida. RMA's economic development and real estate project management team brokered the deal between DOT Properties headquartered in Australia; Seefried Industrial Properties, the developer for Amazon; and the City. RMA was hired by the City just one year ago to create a 5-year Strategic Plan, and now, a 2020 opening is anticipated for the business park.

"This is a remarkable achievement for Deltona, and we are pleased that RMA was the catalyst behind this transformative deal," said Chris Brown, RMA's Principal/Real Estate Broker. "Our strategic plan revealed an opportunity which we aggressively pursued; making the right connections and creating a win-win scenario for all."

As RMA crafted the Strategic Plan, it became apparent that the key to a business park included approximately 240 acres of prime undeveloped property along Interstate 4. This undeveloped property provided all of the necessary attributes required by major distribution centers. RMA contacted the owners abroad and commenced a series of meetings to discuss and define goals for the property. All agreed that the highest and best use was as a business park with logistics facilities, and RMA utilized their extensive network to reach out specifically to developers that specialized in those target industries.

Deltona's Economic Development Department, headed up by Jerry Mayes and Dr. Tom Tomerlin, had identified specific targeted industries with the stated goal of the City to attract corporate business investment and quality jobs. Early stages of RMA's discussions included meetings with Duke Energy, Halifax Health, Deltona Village, Team Volusia and other stakeholders in the region.

With the land secured and a vision in place, RMA contacted Seefried Industrial Properties headquartered in Atlanta and initiated the plan to secure the Amazon distribution center, a pivotal move for the industrial park.

"We were confident that RMA would create the strategies and relationships necessary to achieve the development of a business park and manufacturing related recruitment," said Jerry Mayes, Economic Development Manager. "However, what they accomplished in such a short time span is truly remarkable and will spur additional commercial growth in the City. We are very proud of this partnership, and we look forward to more successful ventures to come."

Development of the site will begin immediately, with a planned 2020 opening. Within the first 5 years, 500 new jobs will be created according to the incentive agreement with the City and County. The City's focused 5-year strategic plan, with targeted economic development implementation strategies, is quickly and successfully becoming a reality.

About RMA:

RMA is Florida's most experienced full-service economic redevelopment, consulting and management firm; specializing in revitalizing core areas for cities, counties and special districts nationwide. Learn more at: http://www.rma.us.com/.

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Tickers: NASDAQ: AMZN / NQ: AMZN

RMA has revealed the international deal-making that was required to secure an Amazon (NASDAQ: AMZN) distribution center as the anchor for the new Portland Industrial Park in Deltona, Florida. RMA's economic development and real estate project management team brokered the deal between DOT Properties headquartered in Australia; Seefried Industrial Properties, the developer for Amazon; and the City.

Related link: http://www.rma.us.com/

NotaryCam Approved to Provide eNotary, RON Services for Michigan Notaries

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- NotaryCam®, the pioneering leader in online notarization and original provider of mortgage eClosing solutions, today announced that it has been approved by the Michigan Department of State to provide both eNotary and remote online notarization (RON) services to the more than 113,000 notaries public registered in the state.

Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson noted in a joint announcement regarding the availability of eNotary/RON and online voter registration, "Both programs represent steps forward for Michigan in using technology to provide modern and convenient services to residents."

As an approved vendor, NotaryCam had to meet certain state requirements, including providing a demonstration of their notarial platforms to department staff that covered specific security features like tamper-evident documents and an audit trail. To date, 13 states, including Michigan, have enacted RON laws, and another nine states are set to do so in 2020.

"The availability of RON nationwide is inevitable, but it is still a cause for celebration when individual states join the movement to modernize the notarial act by legalizing RON," NotaryCam Founder and CEO Rick Triola said. "NotaryCam is proud to be among the first vendors approved by the state to provide RON services, and we look forward to helping Michigan notaries continue to deliver the invaluable services they always have, albeit in a more modern and streamlined fashion."

"As an early adopter of RON closings, CSS has been working with Rick Triola and his NotaryCam technology and team for years," said Jerome Jelinek, CEO and General Counsel of Traverse City, Mich.-based Corporate Settlement Solutions (CSS). "NotaryCam closings greatly enhance the customer experience of real estate closings. Its team of notaries are knowledgeable, experienced, professional and always willing to accommodate the needs of customers and CSS team members. To truly serve our customers, industry members need to use NotaryCam remote online closings for all possible closings."

About NotaryCam:

After pioneering the world's first multi-party/multi-state remote online notarization (RON), career real estate executive Rick Triola founded NotaryCam and completed the first mortgage remote online closing (ROC) in 2014. Today, NotaryCam is the leader in online notarization and mortgage eClosing solutions, having notarized documents worldwide for hundreds of thousands of customers in all 50 states and more than 146 countries.

The company's patented eClose360® platform delivers the "perfect" online mortgage closing in every jurisdiction with a flexible workflow for document recording and unparalleled identity verification, security and customer convenience. NotaryCam also proudly maintains an industry-leading 99.8 percent customer satisfaction rating.

Visit https://www.notarycam.com for additional information or to get a document notarized today.

Michigan.gov announcement link: https://www.michigan.gov/sos/0,4670,7-127--513568--,00.html

Twitter: @NotaryCam #ROC #RON #digitalmortgage #emortgage #eclosing #enotary

NotaryCam the pioneering leader in online notarization and original provider of mortgage eClosing solutions, today announced that it has been approved by the Michigan Department of State to provide both eNotary and remote online notarization (RON) services to the more than 113,000 notaries public registered in the state.

Related link: https://www.notarycam.com/

Osceola City Council Green Lights Contractor Bidding On New Wastewater Plant

OSCEOLA, Iowa /ScoopCloud/ -- The Osceola City Council has approved a schedule for taking bids on construction of the updated wastewater treatment facility. A recent pre-bid meeting brought in a handful of interest, but with design and budgeting finalized, the City is now able to open the call for bids to contractors interested in undertaking the project.

As far back as 2010, new EPA regulations as well as the continued growth of Osceola itself made the need for modernizing and updating the wastewater treatment unavoidable. According to the EPA, the acceptable limits of certain water constituents were lowered, making the current water treatment plant incapable of meet the new regulations. After many years of research, studies, plans and financial estimates, the project is ready to move forward by beginning the contractor selection process.

The projected timeline for the new wastewater treatment plant's construction is scheduled roughly to take two years, then the repurposing of the current facility is slated to take another two years. All of this will be done before the project is finalized or costs are realized. At this time, total projected costs for the new plant is estimated to be just under $30 million dollars.

A large portion of that cost - roughly 47% - is being covered through a partnership with Osceola's major industrial contributors. The balance will be financed through the State Revolving Fund Loan via the Iowa Finance Authority. Utility payers will pay their proportionate share through minor updates, not expected to exceed the standard cost of living rate over the next several years.

While the updated treatment facility will meet EPA demands, increase treatment capabilities, as well as offer expansion to support future economic growth, several other benefits to the updates will be realized. Significantly, the city of Osceola was recently awarded a $2.4 million grant designated to fund projects which improve the quality of stormwater runoff. Their eligibility to even apply was granted through the planned wastewater treatment plant updates and the use of a State Revolving Fund Loan. Using this grant, green practices such as pervious pavers and intakes designed to separate debris from stormwater runoff will be incorporated in the downtown area, further improving water quality throughout the community.

In addition to better wastewater management, compliance and water runoff quality, the City of Osceola has recently taken on ownership of the local golf course wherein new wastewater treatment facility will allow for additional money-saving strategies.

"No pun intended, but we're 'teeing ourselves up' to be able to take advantage of the new graywater system so we can irrigate the municipal golf course," said Ty Wheeler, Osceola City Administrator. "While it's not part of the current plans for the treatment plant, we are expecting future strategies like this to save the city money and facilitate business and community growth."

Once completed, the updated treatment plant will not only increase flow capacity of the wastewater that's taken in, but will also see increased capacity in the treatment of the constituents found within that flow. Updates will ensure the city's compliance with DNR and EPA regulations for several decades to come.

"We have big plans for future growth of the City," said Wheeler. "These updates open us to increasing new businesses opportunities and more residents far into the future."

If you are interested in submitting a bid for this project, please read specifications, deadlines, and all other pertinent information on the Osceola, Iowa Web site at: https://osceolaia.net/revised-notice-to-bidders-construction-of-wastewater-treatment-facility-improvements/

For more information about the wastewater treatment plant project, contact Ty Wheeler, Osceola City Administrator, via email, by calling 641-342-2377, or by visiting the administration offices at 115 N. Fillmore St., Osceola, IA 50213.

*IMAGE link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-1119s2p-osceola-ww-plant-expansion-300dpi.jpg
*Image caption: Expansion plans more than double the footprint of the current wastewater treatment plant.

The Osceola City Council has approved a schedule for taking bids on construction of the updated wastewater treatment facility. A recent pre-bid meeting brought in a handful of interest, but with design and budgeting finalized, the City is now able to open the call for bids to contractors interested in undertaking the project.

Related link: https://osceolaia.net/

RMA Hired by Town of Fort Myers Beach

POMPANO BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Town of Fort Myers Beach has hired the firm RMA (www.rma.us.com) to create its new branding and marketing campaign. RMA's award-winning team of economic development and marketing experts will analyze the town's current brand and develop a comprehensive strategy to capitalize on the community's authentic assets and distinctive culture.

"The Town of Fort Myers Beach is an exceptional community undergoing tremendous growth," said Sharon McCormick, RMA's Director of Business Attraction & Marketing. "While already a popular tourist destination, thanks to its magnificent beach, historic nature preserve, and diverse dining and shopping experiences, the town desires to redefine its identity. Visitors often refer to the area in general terms, either as Fort Myers, Estero Island or in partnership with Sanibel Island. Our plan will help establish an individual brand for Fort Myers Beach, creating a sense of place and engendering residents' pride."

RMA has created numerous strategic economic development and marketing plans for cities across the state. For Fort Myers Beach, RMA is now initiating the Discovery and Research phase, where they will conduct a complete assessment of the current branding assets, review the Town's distinguishing attributes, meet with community leaders and town staff to define goals and create the strategy, tactics and budget. Following this process, RMA will present a new brand for Fort Myers Beach to Town Council including a new logo, marketing campaign and supporting collateral materials.

Fort Myers Beach is the only town on Estero Island, which is located off the southwest Florida coast. The town features a stunning beach along the Gulf of Mexico, the Matanzas Pass Preserve nature sanctuary, the Mound House, built on an ancient Calusa Indian shell mound, and an exciting shopping and dining center known as Times Square, as well as other unique destinations. A Margaritaville Resort is also currently in the planning stages.

About RMA:

Founded in 2009 by Kim Briesemeister and Chris Brown, RMA is comprised of a phenomenal team of redevelopment experts passionate about building better communities. RMA, based in Pompano Beach, Florida is the most experienced full-service economic redevelopment consulting and management firm, headquartered in the state of Florida, specializing in revitalizing core areas and corridors for cities, counties and special districts nationwide. The co-founders are also the authors of one of the definitive books about city redevelopment, "Reinventing Your City: 8 Steps to Turn Your City Around."

Learn more: http://www.rma.us.com/

The Town of Fort Myers Beach has hired the firm RMA to create its new branding and marketing campaign. RMA's award-winning team of economic development and marketing experts will analyze the town's current brand and develop a comprehensive strategy to capitalize on the community's authentic assets and distinctive culture.

Related link: http://www.rma.us.com/

Living Landmark Approved for Route 202 in Flemington, NJ

NEWTOWN SQUARE, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Flemington, NJ Land Use Board has approved a Gateway Monument with a living wall to be constructed at the Flemington Circle on Route 202. This decision was rendered at the Board's bi-monthly meeting on October 22. The Monument will be constructed in a public private partnership with Catalyst Experiential.

The Flemington Living Landmark will include colorful landscaping, a living wall, a sign welcoming drivers to "The Historic Borough of Flemington," and an array of "solar trees" to provide renewable energy. The project will integrate a communications platform consisting of three digital displays that the municipality can use to broadcast emergency information and to help promote local activities and events.

"When I look at the rendering, I picture it coming alive -- and have an image of how beautiful this will be," said Tim Bebout, owner and chef at the Main Street Manor B&B in Flemington. "It's going to be lovely to have drivers pass trees and landscaping and to know that just down the street is one of the most beautiful towns in New Jersey and they should stop."

Flemington has been focused on the revitalization of underutilized properties in the Borough, and the rehabilitation of its historic Main Street. Like many communities, it seeks to improve life for residents and stand out from the sea of sameness that permeates our suburbs. Drivers often don't realize they are leaving one municipality and entering the next. Catalyst Experiential will take a derelict auto shop and transform it into a unique meaningful green space with a landmark to welcome visitors to the Borough.

"In the 90s I lived in Hunterdon County and used to pass through Flemington regularly," commented Eric Ascalon, Vice President of Development, Catalyst Experiential. "I remember the quaint, inviting Main Street-but the 202 commercial corridor bypassing the heart of town was nondescript, and had a dilapidated old service station in its midst. I'm very proud that Catalyst will be transforming this eyesore into an appropriate green gateway to welcome travelers to this wonderful community."

More on Catalyst Experiential:

Catalyst Experiential is redefining the physical form of communication by integrating visual communication technology with municipal landmarks, public safety facilities, and community gathering places. Imagine dog parks, pedestrian bridges, art centers, or fire stations that serve the public while enabling the local government, schools, charities, and businesses to speak directly to the community they serve.

Catalyst works closely with communities to understand their needs so that they can develop solutions at no cost to taxpayers. The solutions frequently transform the under-utilized property into a community asset that combines art, architecture, and advertising in a unique way.

Visit https://www.catalystex.com/ for more information.

Follow Catalyst Experiential on LinkedIn for updates on the company and exciting new projects.

*IMAGE link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-1029s2p-flemington-300dpi.jpg
*Image caption: The Flemington, NJ Land Use Board has approved a Gateway Monument with a living wall to be constructed at the Flemington Circle on Route 202.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Donna Katz
Grimm and Grove Communications
donna@grimmandgrove.com
215-806-4594

The Flemington, NJ Land Use Board has approved a Gateway Monument with a living wall to be constructed at the Flemington Circle on Route 202. This decision was rendered at the Board's bi-monthly meeting on October 22. The Monument will be constructed in a public private partnership with Catalyst Experiential.

Related link: https://www.catalystex.com/

The Pompano Beach CRA Announces a Request for Co-Working Space Applications

POMPANO BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Pompano Beach CRA has announced a request for applications from entrepreneurs interested in becoming members of "GROW," a co-working space, managed by the nationally acclaimed team, Digital Grass Innovation and Technology. This innovation hub will provide a myriad of support systems to local business owners looking to accelerate their success via three membership levels.

Applications for GROW, which is located in the first floor commercial space of City Vista, are now available at http://growceo.space/.

"GROW will be an outstanding opportunity for local emerging business owners to obtain an unparalleled support system," said Nguyen Tran, CRA Director. "Digital Grass has helped countless entrepreneurs achieve their goals through the company's development tools, mentorship, symposiums and advanced services."

The team at Digital Grass refers to this hub as a CEO Space, as they believe that every business owner, no matter the size of their endeavor, should envision themselves as a CEO.

"Our mission is to create an inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem in South Florida," said Michael Hall CEO and co-founder of Digital Grass. "We are an experienced team that has achieved remarkable success for our clients through our strategic business development plans. With GROW, we are looking forward to sharing our success, failures, resources and relationships to help emerging businesses acquire the skills necessary for long-term success."

One of the biggest challenges new businesses face is lack of accountability and honest input from a true focus group. GROW will offer white board sessions where members will benefit from the team's feedback and insightful suggestions. The CEO Space will also provide opportunities to receive individual consulting, marketing services, graphic design, web development, business evaluations and participation in an annual accelerator program. Another aspect of GROW's mission is to create a social environment, both in the space and throughout the community, to help entrepreneurs' network and feel connected.

"One of the biggest obstacles many emerging business owners face is isolation, especially those who work from home," continued Hall. "GROW will provide a stimulating environment for these entrepreneurs to connect and regain inspiration."

Membership will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis and is available at three levels:

INTRO ENTREPRENEUR (SEED) - DIGITAL NOMAD
Member with no desk or dedicated space, Regular Internet Speed, Access to Monthly Events and 4 Monthly Visits

BEGINNING ENTREPRENEURSHIP (SPROUT) - WORK-FROM-HOME PROFESSIONAL
Community Desk Access, 5ghz Internet Speed, Common Area, Operating Hours Access, 4 hours of the conference room, Monthly Check-In

FULL-TIME ENTREPRENEURSHIP (BLOOM) - ENTREPRENEUR
Includes dedicated desk, 5ghz Internet Speed, 8 hours of the conference room) Monthly Check-In, Weekly Gathering, Dedicated Mentor

About Digital Grass:

Digital Grass Innovation & Technology (DGIT) is a collective of professionals collaborating to co-create solutions focused on innovation and promoting inclusion in innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship. Through co-creation efforts with companies led by women, minorities, and LGBT individuals, Digital Grass transforms, develops, and promotes inclusion by increasing the presence of diversity in technology, entrepreneurial ventures, and through informative content creation and social interactions. For more information, visit http://digigrass.com/

About the Pompano Beach CRA:

The City of Pompano Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) was created in 1989. It has two dependent districts: Northwest CRA and East CRA established by City government for the purpose of carrying out redevelopment activities that include reducing or eliminating blight, improving the economic health of an area, and encouraging public and private investments in a CRA district.

The Northwest CRA District covers an area of about 3,084 acres encompassing a large part of the western portion of the City between Atlantic Boulevard and Copans Road generally west of Dixie Highway. The Pompano Beach CRA is funded through Tax Increment Financing (TIF). The funds are collected as property values increase and a portion of that increase is captured by the Agency. TIF raises revenue for redevelopment efforts without raising taxes.

For more information http://www.pompanobeachfl.gov/pages/cra.

The Pompano Beach CRA has announced a request for applications from entrepreneurs interested in becoming members of "GROW," a co-working space, managed by the nationally acclaimed team, Digital Grass Innovation and Technology. This innovation hub will provide a myriad of support systems to local business owners looking to accelerate their success via three membership levels.

XG Communities to provide small cell program solutions for the City of Federal Way, Washington

FEDERAL WAY, Wash. /ScoopCloud/ -- XG Communities LLC, a premier provider of wireless and engineering services for carriers and municipalities across the United States, announce their agreement to provide small cell program solutions for the City of Federal Way, Washington.

Under the multi-year agreement, XG Communities will begin managing the City's street light poles and other assets for small cell colocation using Site SeleX software platform. This effort will enhance the ability for Federal Way to deploy wireless connectivity throughout the City. As wireless carriers densify existing networks, it is estimated that the industry will deploy hundreds of thousands of small cells, making it increasingly difficult for cities to manage the application and deployment process. In collaboration with the carriers, XG Communities will streamline applications with a predictable process.

"I am excited that XG Communities was selected to be our technological partner, and I look forward to working with them to bring our community into the rapidly approaching internet-of-things economy," said Mayor Jim Ferrell, City of Federal Way.

The decision for the City of Federal Way to partner with XG Communities was based on the need to increase connectivity for businesses and residents. The solution will be the foundation to deploy infrastructure, enhance business investment, and improve public services.

"Our partnership with Cities, to address wireless deployments, has given us a unique perspective on how to support the carrier-city relationships," said Monnie McGaffigan, President of XG Communities.

About City of Federal Way:

Federal Way is a city in King County, Washington; within the Seattle-Tacoma metropolitan area, shadowed by the majestic Mount Rainier. The current population is 97,044. Federal Way is locally identified by its 1990s semi-urban development, characterized by landscaped, off-street, multi-structure apartment complexes and shopping centers. For more information, please visit https://www.cityoffederalway.com/.

About XG Communities:

XG Communities is headquartered in Irvine, California. A premier provider of small cell wireless engineering services and comprehensive wireless strategies for cities and municipalities. For more information, please visit http://xgcommunities.com/.

For media or other queries, contact:
XG Communities LLC
(949) 514-4617
info@xgcommunities.com

XG Communities LLC, a premier provider of wireless and engineering services for carriers and municipalities across the United States, announce their agreement to provide small cell program solutions for the City of Federal Way, Washington.

Related link: http://xgcommunities.com/

Major South Florida Development Prospect Located in Opportunity Zone – Pompano Beach Looks Nationwide for Master Developer

POMPANO BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- The City of Pompano Beach and its redevelopment agency have over 30 acres of land located in an Opportunity Zone out to bid seeking a Master Developer for an Innovation District in the downtown. The land is one of the last undeveloped areas in South Florida bordering the I-95 corridor with direct beach access. Deadline to submit a Letter of Interest is July 10, 2019.

Interested developers and brokers can view the details at https://pompanobeachfl.ionwave.net/CurrentSourcingEvents.aspx

"Having this area designated an Opportunity Zone offers tremendous tax benefits for the Master Developer who is selected for the project," said Nguyen Tran, CRA Director. "The Opportunity Zone program has become a catalyst for the private sector to develop underserved communities, bringing new businesses and jobs to the area. We are enthusiastic about the potential for this project to transform a once blighted area into an economic hub for the region."

Opportunity Zones are designed to spur economic development by providing tax benefits to investors. Investors can defer tax on prior gains invested in a Qualified Opportunity Fund (QOF) until the earlier of the date on which the investment in a QOF is sold or exchanged, or December 31, 2026. The development community is quickly learning the benefits and seeking land that has been granted the designation. More details on Opportunity Zone tax benefits are available from multiple sources.

Over the past 20 years, the Northwest CRA has assembled over 30 acres of land within the almost 70-acre Innovation District. Most developable parcels are generally located along the busy I-95 corridor and Atlantic Boulevard, making this one of the last prime development opportunities of its kind in South Florida.

Based on a previous market analysis, the following can guide the master plan for a mix of desirable uses in Phase 1 of the urban revitalization program:
* Office/ Flex space 750,000 sq. ft.
* Retail 165,000 sq. ft.
* Residential 1,500 units
* Hotel/ Hospitality up to 420 rooms (multiple buildings)
* New City Hall/ Government Offices P3 opportunity
* Restaurant 35,000 sq. ft.
* Education (open opportunities)

About The Pompano Beach CRA:

The City of Pompano Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) was created in 1989. It has two dependent districts: Northwest CRA and East CRA established by City government for the purpose of carrying out redevelopment activities that include reducing or eliminating blight, improving the economic health of an area, and encouraging public and private investments in a CRA district.

The Northwest CRA District covers an area of about 3,084 acres encompassing a large part of the western portion of the City between Atlantic Boulevard and Copans Road generally west of Dixie Highway. The Pompano Beach CRA is funded through Tax Increment Financing (TIF). The funds are collected as property values increase and a portion of that increase is captured by the Agency. TIF raises revenue for redevelopment efforts without raising taxes.

For more information http://www.pompanobeachfl.gov/pages/cra.

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-0624s2p-pompano-trifold-300dpi.jpg

Media Contact:
Kay Renz
Kay@KRPRmediagroup.com
561-654-8151

The City of Pompano Beach and its redevelopment agency have over 30 acres of land located in an Opportunity Zone out to bid seeking a Master Developer for an Innovation District in the downtown. The land is one of the last undeveloped areas in South Florida bordering the I-95 corridor with direct beach access. Deadline to submit a Letter of Interest is July 10, 2019.

Pompano Beach CRA Offers New Opportunity for Brokers to Find Master Developer

POMPANO BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- The City of Pompano Beach and Pompano Beach CRA have opened a new opportunity for all real estate brokers in the municipality's pursuit of a master developer for the City's Downtown and Innovation District. A 2% commission is in play for the transformative project, one of the last of its kind in the South Florida market. Currently, a Request for Letters of Interest (RLI) for a Master Developer has been issued, with a deadline of July 10, 2019.

"This is a tremendous opportunity for any broker who is well-connected with the nation's top developers," said Nguyen Tran, CRA Director. "We are seeking developers who understand our goals for the area, offer experience in prior projects of this scope and have the financial capability to undertake this project. By reaching out to the national real estate broker community, we hope to expand our list of potential applicants."

Over the past 20 years, the Northwest CRA has assembled over 30 acres of land within the almost 70-acre Innovation District. Most developable parcels are generally located along the busy I-95 corridor and Atlantic Boulevard, making this one of the last prime development opportunities of its kind in South Florida.

Based on a previous market analysis, the following can guide the master plan for a mix of desirable uses:
* Office/ Flex space 750,000 sq. ft.
* Retail 165,000 sq. ft.
* Residential 1,500 units
* Hotel/ Hospitality up to 420 rooms (multiple building)
* New City Hall/ Government Offices P3 opportunity
* Restaurant 35,000 sq. ft.
* Education open opportunities

In addition, as part of the marketing and branding strategy for downtown, the CRA envisions a creative and unique drainage system, possibly using linear waterway systems that create a visible and desirable asset for development parcels, much like the waterways in Amsterdam in the Netherlands, and San Antonio, Texas (from a visual perspective). A stormwater conceptual master license has already received county approval and a drainage district will need to be formed. Design and construction of a creative and aesthetically pleasing drainage option can occur simultaneously with the vertical development.

The City has also invested heavily in cultural assets in the downtown area. The Pompano Beach Cultural Center, Bailey Contemporary Arts and Historic Ali Cultural Arts are spread out over three distinct geographic areas in the Downtown providing opportunities for pedestrian movement between them. Highlighting these facilities and using them as anchors in the master plan will provide a ready-made set of assets to build upon for future redevelopment.

Brokers can direct developers to the City's eBid system to view the complete solicitation document, which can be downloaded for free as a PDF at: https://pompanobeachfl.ionwave.net/CurrentSourcingEvents.aspx.

Developers will verify in their response that they are represented by a licensed brokerage firm. The Letters of Interest must be submitted electronically through the City's eBid System on or before July 10, 2019. Developers must be registered on the City's eBid System in order to view the solicitation documents and respond to this solicitation.

About The Pompano Beach CRA:

The City of Pompano Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) was created in 1989. It has two dependent districts: Northwest CRA and East CRA established by City government for the purpose of carrying out redevelopment activities that include reducing or eliminating blight, improving the economic health of an area, and encouraging public and private investments in a CRA district.

The Northwest CRA District covers an area of about 3,084 acres encompassing a large part of the western portion of the City between Atlantic Boulevard and Copans Road generally west of Dixie Highway. The Pompano Beach CRA is funded through Tax Increment Financing (TIF). The funds are collected as property values increase and a portion of that increase is captured by the Agency. TIF raises revenue for redevelopment efforts without raising taxes.

*IMAGE link for media: Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-0614s2p-pompano-bch-300dpi.jpg
*Image caption: Rendering of the Innovation District.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Kay Renz
Kay Renz PR
kayrenzpr@gmail.com
561-654-8151

The City of Pompano Beach and Pompano Beach CRA have opened a new opportunity for all real estate brokers in the municipality's pursuit of a master developer for the City's Downtown and Innovation District. A 2% commission is in play for the transformative project, one of the last of its kind in the South Florida market.

Pompano Beach Seeks Master Developer for Downtown and Innovation District

POMPANO BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- The City of Pompano Beach and Pompano Beach CRA have issued a Request for Letters of Interest (RLI) for a Master Developer for the City's Downtown and Innovation District. The South Florida municipality has undergone a tremendous transformation during the past few years, and the creation of a dense urban downtown is the next redevelopment goal.

The purpose of the RLI is to identify qualified master real estate developers to acquire and develop real property assets owned by the City and the CRA in Downtown Pompano Beach. Those selected to proceed to a proposal stage, will provide their best and final proposal for the master development of the Parcels in Downtown Pompano Beach.

"We are seeking developers who understand our goals for the area, offer experience in prior projects of this scope and have the financial capability to undertake this project," said Nguyen Tran, CRA Director. "Over the past 20 years, the Northwest CRA has assembled over 30 acres of land within the almost 70-acre Innovation District. Most developable parcels are generally located along the busy I-95 corridor and Atlantic Boulevard, making this one of the last prime development opportunities of its kind in South Florida."

Based on a previous market analysis, the following can guide the master plan for a mix of desirable uses:
* Office/ Flex space 750,000 sq. ft.
* Retail 165,000 sq. ft.
* Residential 1,500 units
* Hotel/ Hospitality up to 420 rooms (multiple building)
* New City Hall/ Government Offices P3 opportunity
* Restaurant 35,000 sq. ft.
* Education open opportunities.

In addition, as part of the marketing and branding strategy for downtown, the CRA envisions a creative and unique drainage system, possibly using linear waterway systems that create a visible and desirable asset for development parcels, much like the waterways in Amsterdam in the Netherlands, and San Antonio, Texas (from a visual perspective). A stormwater conceptual master license has already received county approval and a drainage district will need to be formed. Design and construction of a creative and aesthetically pleasing drainage option can occur simultaneously with the vertical development.

The City has also invested heavily in cultural assets in the downtown area. The Pompano Beach Cultural Center, Bailey Contemporary Arts and Historic Ali Cultural Arts are spread out over three distinct geographic areas in the Downtown providing opportunities for pedestrian movement between them. Highlighting these facilities and using them as anchors in the master plan will provide a ready-made set of assets to build upon for future redevelopment.

Letters of Interest must be submitted electronically through the City's eBid System on or before July 10, 2019. Developers must be registered on the City's eBid System in order to view the solicitation documents and respond to this solicitation.

The complete solicitation document can be downloaded for free from the eBid System as a PDF at: https://pompanobeachfl.ionwave.net/CurrentSourcingEvents.aspx.

About The Pompano Beach CRA:

The City of Pompano Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) was created in 1989. It has two dependent districts: Northwest CRA and East CRA established by City government for the purpose of carrying out redevelopment activities that include reducing or eliminating blight, improving the economic health of an area, and encouraging public and private investments in a CRA district.

The Northwest CRA District covers an area of about 3,084 acres encompassing a large part of the western portion of the City between Atlantic Boulevard and Copans Road generally west of Dixie Highway. The Pompano Beach CRA is funded through Tax Increment Financing (TIF). The funds are collected as property values increase and a portion of that increase is captured by the Agency. TIF raises revenue for redevelopment efforts without raising taxes. Learn more: http://pompanobeachfl.gov/pages/cra

MEDIA CONTACT:
Kay Renz
Kay Renz PR
kayrenzpr@gmail.com
Phone Number: 561-654-8151

The City of Pompano Beach and Pompano Beach CRA have issued a Request for Letters of Interest (RLI) for a Master Developer for the City's Downtown and Innovation District. The South Florida municipality has undergone a tremendous transformation during the past few years, and the creation of a dense urban downtown is the next redevelopment goal.

Idaho Now E-recording Statewide with Simplifile

PROVO, Utah /ScoopCloud/ -- Simplifile, a leading provider of real estate document collaboration and recording technologies for lenders, settlement agents and counties, today announced that Nez Perce and Shoshone counties, Idaho, have adopted its e-recording service. Idaho is now the 11th state to implement e-recording statewide using Simplifile.

"We are thrilled to welcome Idaho as the third state this year to fully embrace e-recording," said Simplifile President Paul Clifford. "More than 80 percent of the U.S. population is covered by the Simplifile e-recording network as jurisdictions of all sizes embrace the efficiency and cost-savings e-recording provides. We hope jurisdictions currently contemplating e-recording will be inspired by Idaho's commitment to improving document recording services through technology."

In 2007, Washington County became the first jurisdiction in Idaho to adopt Simplifile's e-recording service. With the addition of Nez Perce County in January and Shoshone County this past week, all 44 Idaho counties now e-record with Simplifile.

Recording offices throughout Idaho can now leverage Simplifile's e-recording platform to electronically receive, stamp, record and return documents within minutes, while settlement agents can submit recording fees and other recording-related expenses directly through system.

Simplifile is the largest e-recording network in the U.S., with more than 1,900 jurisdictions nationwide e-recording on the platform. In addition to Idaho, 10 other states offer statewide e-recording through Simplifile, including Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Iowa, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada and Oregon.

For more information about e-recording in Idaho, call 800.460.5657 or visit https://simplifile.com. For a current list of all jurisdictions within the Simplifile e-recording network, visit https://simplifile.com/e-recording/e-recording-counties.

About Simplifile:

Simplifile, the nation's largest e-recording network, was founded in 2000 to connect settlement agents and county recorders via its e-recording service. Today Simplifile has broadened its services to include collaboration tools and post-closing visibility for mortgage lenders and settlement agents working together on real estate documents. Through Simplifile, users can securely record, share and track documents, data and fees with ease.

To learn more, visit https://simplifile.com/ or call 800.460.5657.

Simplifile, a leading provider of real estate document collaboration and recording technologies for lenders, settlement agents and counties, today announced that Nez Perce and Shoshone counties, Idaho, have adopted its e-recording service. Idaho is now the 11th state to implement e-recording statewide using Simplifile.

Related link: https://simplifile.com/

Pennsylvania Goes ‘Live’ With EnergyCAP Energy Management Information Solution

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- EnergyCAP, Inc. (ECI) is pleased to announce that its EnergyCAP Enterprise software-based solution is now in full production use by The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania (CoPA). CoPA will rely on EnergyCAP to track, audit, and analyze more than 10,000 Commonwealth utility accounts, with an annual utility spend in excess of $125 million.

ECI-via its Bill CAPture(SM) service-will enter invoices from more than 150 utility vendors into EnergyCAP, enabling the Commonwealth to more easily evaluate and reduce energy use for approximately 4,000 buildings. The project was rolled out in conjunction with the Penn State Facilities Engineering Institute (PSFEI) and will measure the Commonwealth's performance in reducing its overall energy consumption to meet Governor Tom Wolf's Executive Order 2019-01.

Commodities tracked within EnergyCAP include electricity, natural gas, water, sewer, steam, and fuel oil. EnergyCAP's Bill CAPture service processes each line item of the utility bills in PDF format, allowing for detailed audits, analysis, and reporting.

The EnergyCAP solution includes an interface to facilitate the transfer of data from EnergyCAP to the Energy Risk Management Application operated by PSFEI. PSFEI provides energy management and procurement services to CoPA, and their efforts will be aided by having direct, automated access to statewide energy across all agencies.

"For the first time in the Commonwealth, we will have an enterprise-wide system in place to track utility consumption and identify areas where we can reduce our usage to meet the governor's goal of reducing our consumption by 3 percent each year moving forward," said PA General Services Deputy Secretary for Property and Asset Management Julien Gaudion. "The EnergyCAP solution will also assist us in our efforts to measure the effectiveness of the more than $80 million investment we've made in energy conservation measures through the Guaranteed Energy Savings Act (GESA) program, which has realized more than $4.6 million in annual savings to date."

The comprehensive implementation project began in early 2018, and the first phase for electricity and natural gas accounts was completed in spring 2019. On-going annual user training sessions will be provided to state personnel at the departmental level as part of the comprehensive EnergyCAP solution.

About EnergyCAP:
Since 1982, EnergyCAP, Inc. has helped more than 10,000 energy managers in government, education, and commercial organizations drive value from their utility bills and energy data. Clients use our comprehensive EnergyCAP software-based solution to streamline utility bill processing and auditing, track energy and greenhouse gas data, process campus and tenant allocations, target reduction goals, benchmark facilities, submit to ENERGY STAR, measure and verify energy & cost savings, create budgets and forecasts, and much more.

For more information, visit: https://www.energycap.com/

Twitter and Facebook: @energycap

VIDEO (YouTube):
https://youtu.be/hAyzE4zS1Es

EnergyCAP, Inc. (ECI) is pleased to announce that its EnergyCAP Enterprise software-based solution is now in full production use by The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania (CoPA). CoPA will rely on EnergyCAP to track, audit, and analyze more than 10,000 Commonwealth utility accounts, with an annual utility spend in excess of $125 million.

Related link: https://www.energycap.com/

100in1 Day: Gloversville set to be the first in the United States

GLOVERSVILLE, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- 2019 is a pivotal year in the revitalization of Downtown Gloversville. To that end, the Gloversville Downtown Development Specialist office, Fulton County Center for Regional Growth, and residents of Gloversville are embarking on a single day of community action called 100in1 Day: Gloversville to be held on Saturday, May 4, 2019. Gloversville will be the first city in the United States to host a 100in1 Day event. An opening ceremony will be held at 10 a.m. at Trail Station Park (84 West Fulton Street, Gloversville) with local and state officials present.

100in1 Day is an international movement currently in 31 cities across the globe. The event is meant to bring people together on one single day to perform 100 +/- acts of positivity for their community. This one day of service inspires the larger community to continue small acts the remaining 364 days of the year. These small actions are low-cost community projects that are open to anyone and designed to create positive, lasting change.

100in1 Day: Gloversville will be held on Saturday, May 4, 2019 beginning at 9 a.m. Activities will be held at locations throughout the City including downtown, City parks, elementary schools and the FJ&G Rail Trail. The event has pulled together a coalition of volunteers and activity hosts with the sole purpose of doing good works throughout the City.

"100in1 Day: Gloversville is set to be a day full of love, positive action and pride," said Jennifer Jennings, Downtown Development Specialist in Gloversville and organizer of the event. "The support we have received in the planning of this massive city-wide day of action has been tremendous and the event's success will be based upon the relationships, pride and love so many businesses, organizations and individual community members have in the City. Another point of pride is that Gloversville is the fact that we are the first city in the United States to host a 100in1 Day event. 2019 is truly turning into a love letter to our city and to the people who live, work and believe in our future."

"The school district enthusiastically supports the 100In1Day event in Gloversville and hopes participation exceeds all expectations," said David Halloran, Superintendent of Schools in Gloversville. "We have a number of student service groups and schools participating on May 4th. Events such as this go a long way in teaching children that giving back to your community, even in small ways, can have a profound impact."

Taylor Made Products will see many of their employees participate in volunteer activities during 100in1 Day as well.

"Taylor Made is pleased to be participating in the 100in1 Day event in Gloversville as part of our Acts of Service initiative," said David Karpinski, President of Aftermarket Products. "Throughout 2019, LCI and Taylor Made are asking all team members, volunteers and community partners to donate their time across the country to help us reach a collective total of 200,000 hours of community service. We understand that local non-profits especially need a helping hand to accomplish their goals." Karpinski added, "Giving back to the community that has supported our business for over 100 years is the least we can do."

Individuals, community organizations and businesses throughout Gloversville were asked to become involved in the 100in1 Day: Gloversville event. An online activity sheet has been made available and the list grows daily.

A full list of 100in1 Day activities to be held on May 4, 2019 are available at http://www.downtowngloversville.org. 100in1 Day: Gloversville activities will be large and small, and take a matter of minutes or hours - they depend upon the activity, hosts and locations. Some activities planned include two-days of spring cleaning at the Glove Theatre, a book swap, volunteering at the Gloversville Senior Center breakfast, singing on street corners, apple tree plantings at Wohlfarth's Pond, street cleaning and more.

The number and type of activities have only been limited to the imagination of the community. There is still time to sign-up to host an activity or to volunteer at one of the many events throughout the city. Activity and volunteer forms are available at http://www.downtowngloversville.org.

The event would not be possible without the generous contribution of community sponsors including major sponsor, The Family Counseling Center. Michael Countryman, Executive Director of the organization said, "We are honored to sponsor such a wonderful and creative event. Events such as these are so important to the health of our community and give people a sense of togetherness and purpose. Many view volunteerism as a small necessity and do not realize the weight it actually carries in a community like ours. Something as small as lending your opinion by sitting on a local Board of Directors or giving an hour of your time to a local shelter can make an immeasurable difference in someone's life. If we all join together and each give just a small amount, we can be the catalyst to a healthier and happier community."

Sponsors of 100in1 Day: Gloversville include major sponsor The Family Counseling Center, media sponsor The Leader-Herald, community sponsors Correll Contracting Corp., Ricmar Design & Print, and Walmart Distribution Center.

100in1 Day: Gloversville will be held Saturday, May 4, 2019 in Gloversville, N.Y. Activities are open to the entire community. A full list of 100in1 Day: Gloversville activities with descriptions and locations is available at https://downtowngloversville.org/.

Some activities are asking for volunteers. A volunteer sign-up sheet is also available on the website.

Please contact Jennifer Jennings, Gloversville Downtown Development Specialist if you have any questions about the day. She may be reached at jenniferj@fccrg.org or at 518.725.7700 ext. 1004.

More information:
Full details about 100in1 Day: Gloversville and other downtown events are available at https://downtowngloversville.org/.

About Fulton County Center for Regional Growth:

Fulton County Center for Regional Growth's (CRG) mission is to strengthen Fulton County's economic base, facilitate sustainable growth, enhance the competitive position of our region, its counties, towns and cities and facilitate investments that build capacity, create jobs, improve quality of life and increase the standard living for all of its residents. CRG is a 501(c)(3) non-profit. Learn more: http://www.fccrg.org/.

2019 is a pivotal year in the revitalization of Downtown Gloversville. To that end, the Gloversville Downtown Development Specialist office, Fulton County Center for Regional Growth, and residents of Gloversville are embarking on a single day of community action called 100in1 Day: Gloversville to be held on Saturday, May 4, 2019. Gloversville will be the first city in the United States to host a 100in1 Day event.

Related link: http://www.fccrg.org/

The City of Greenacres Accepts RMA’s Vision and Strategic Plan

GREENACRES, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- The City of Greenacres recently accepted a vision and strategic action plan created by the award-winning redevelopment firm, RMA (www.rma.us.com). The city, located in the heart of Palm Beach County, has already begun prioritizing key elements of the plan for implementation to realize the vision and strategic goals. In addition, RMA provided the City with several new logo designs; the final selection will be determined following receipt of comments from a citizen's focus group.

"We see tremendous economic growth opportunities in Greenacres," stated Sharon McCormick, RMA's Director of Business Attraction & Marketing. "Our team spent months studying the city and meeting with residents and stakeholders. After analyzing a vast array of data, we crafted a baseline of facts and a comprehensive strategy for revitalization and branding summed up in a new vision statement and brand promise."

Greenacres will be known as a vibrant and welcoming city that celebrates and promotes its location, parks and natural assets and business and residential diversity. Greenacres is dedicated to surpassing its founder's motto as "a good place to live" and will foster neighborhood community pride and pedestrian connections, promote strategic partnerships to enhance professional and personal opportunities, and support economic growth while maintaining Greenacres' authentic community character.

Key points in the Plan include:
* Identity and market positioning including place branding, communications strategies and business attraction and expansion
* Economic development including recommended zoning changes to encourage development and redevelopment, reimagining strip shopping centers and opportunities for annexation
* Attraction and development of cultural venues, creating a culinary incubator program and urban gardening opportunities
* Sustainability and mobility, focusing on streetscapes, parks and connectivity
* Community connections focusing on neighborhood pride and housing
* Economic (re)development support outlining strategic partnership opportunities and funding resources.

In addition, RMA developed a market positioning and branding campaign, including various design options for a new city icon that would be adapted to reflect multiple events and seasons. The Council decided that their top choices should be presented to a focus group for their input. A group will be assembled to review the options and select the final brand representation.

"RMA has been an outstanding partner in planning the redevelopment of our City," said Andrea McCue, City Manager. "The plan they presented provides us with a blueprint to strategically continue our work creating a vibrant city for our residents, enhancing quality of life and place, and showcasing our welcoming environment for new businesses."

About Greenacres:

Greenacres is the 8th largest municipality of 39 in Palm Beach County. There are over 40,000 residents and over 1,000 businesses. With a land area of approximately six square miles, Greenacres is located in the central part of Palm Beach County and was originally incorporated in 1926. The City is home to 9 public schools, 11 parks with a combined area of over 93 acres and the City's Community Center is host to a variety of youth, adult and senior classes and activities. Additionally, the City has been recognized as one of the "100 Best Communities for Young People" in the nation by America's Promise-The Alliance for Youth, the nation's largest alliance dedicated to children and youth.

About RMA:

Founded in 2009 by Kim Briesemeister and Chris Brown, RMA is comprised of a phenomenal team of redevelopment experts passionate about building better communities. RMA is the most experienced full-service economic redevelopment consulting and management firm, headquartered in the state of Florida, specializing in revitalizing core areas and corridors for cities, counties and special districts nationwide. The co-founders are also the authors of one of the definitive books about city redevelopment, "Reinventing Your City: 8 Steps to Turn Your City Around." Learn more: http://www.rma.us.com/.

The City of Greenacres recently accepted a vision and strategic action plan created by the award-winning redevelopment firm, RMA. The city, located in the heart of Palm Beach County, has already begun prioritizing key elements of the plan for implementation to realize the vision and strategic goals.

Related link: http://www.rma.us.com/

Free Land Incentives Hope to Spur on Spring New Home Construction

OSCEOLA, Iowa /ScoopCloud/ -- Spring is finally here and with it comes the start of the building season. Families are looking to build new homes, developers are looking for prime real estate, and contractors are itching to get back in the field after a long, hard winter. As part of an ongoing housing development initiative, Clarke County Development Corporation (CCDC) has been working with the city of Osceola to offer home builders and developers shovel-ready sites at no cost for residential projects.

The initiative also extends reimbursements on interest for construction loans for up to a 12-month period. The CCDC launched this Zero-Cost Land Development initiative in 2017 as an effort to capitalize on the recent growth trends and development throughout south-central Iowa. While tax abatements and other incentives are offered throughout the state, the concept of Zero-Cost Development offers builders and developers a bigger opportunity for establishing profitable programs throughout the city.

The workforce in Iowa is experiencing unprecedented low unemployment, making businesses work harder to attract the best and the brightest qualified employees. CCDC and the city of Osceola are working together to help provide a big incentive for local businesses offering executive, management, and long-term employment candidates custom housing solutions. Local affordable housing programs such as Kading Properties' Meadows Development have been a huge success and there is plenty of opportunity for developers to meet the needs of those looking for more.

"Development land in the Des Moines Metro area can set builders back $80,000 to $200,000 per lot or more," said Bill Trickey, Executive Director of Clarke County Development Corporation. "Osceola is close to metro amenities with a quality of life you can't find in larger cities. Continuously developing and improving, the city offers a sense of community and safety among neighbors, providing peace of mind for growing families."

Osceola's major benefits include over 4,600 non-farming jobs, a quality school district advanced beyond some suburban Metro schools, and several quality of life developments like an expanding trail system, improved city parks, lakes and land for hunting, fishing and limitless outdoor recreation. City officials and the CCDC hope the Zero-Cost Land Development initiative will continue to strengthen neighborhoods and encourage families to call Osceola home.

If you're a builder looking for a low-cost entry into a competitive market, contact Bill Trickey at the Clarke County Development Corporation at info@clarkecountyiowa.com or 641-342-2944 to learn more about the Zero-Cost Development initiative.

Learn more about Clarke County at: https://osceolaclarkedev.com/

Spring is finally here and with it comes the start of the building season. As part of an ongoing housing development initiative, Clarke County Development Corporation (CCDC) has been working with the city of Osceola to offer home builders and developers shovel-ready sites at no cost for residential projects.

Related link: https://osceolaclarkedev.com/

Maryland Now E-recording Statewide with Simplifile

PROVO, Utah /ScoopCloud/ -- Simplifile, a leading provider of real estate document collaboration and recording technologies for lenders, settlement agents and counties, today announced that St. Mary's County, Md., has adopted its e-recording service. With this addition, Maryland has become the 10th state in the Simplifile network to implement e-recording statewide.

"2019 has already been a banner year for Simplifile, with the addition of our 1,900th jurisdiction and statewide e-recording in Nevada," said Simplifile President Paul Clifford. "Now, we're thrilled to announce that Maryland has joined the select group of states that have modernized their document recording services statewide with Simplifile, and as the year progresses, we hope to see additional states follow suit to deliver process efficiency and cost savings to their constituents."

In 2015, Baltimore County became the first Maryland county to adopt Simplifile's e-recording service. Baltimore County began using Simplifile as part of the Baltimore County Circuit Court's e-recording pilot, which was created for recording customers to conveniently and securely e-record land record documents, expediting the turnaround time for recorded documents and reducing overall paper and mailing expenses. With the addition of St. Mary's County, all 24 Maryland counties now e-record with Simplifile.

Simplifile's e-recording platform enables recording offices throughout Maryland to electronically receive, stamp, record and return documents within minutes, while settlement agents can submit recording fees and other recording-related expenses directly through system.

Simplifile is the largest e-recording network in the U.S., with more than 1,900 jurisdictions nationwide e-recording on the platform. In addition to Maryland, nine other states offer statewide e-recording through Simplifile, including Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Iowa, Massachusetts, Nevada and Oregon.

For more information about e-recording in Maryland, call 800.460.5657 or visit https://simplifile.com. For a current list of all jurisdictions within the Simplifile e-recording network, visit https://simplifile.com/e-recording/e-recording-counties.

About Simplifile:

Simplifile, the nation's largest e-recording network, was founded in 2000 to connect settlement agents and county recorders via its e-recording service. Today Simplifile has broadened its services to include collaboration tools and post-closing visibility for mortgage lenders and settlement agents working together on real estate documents. Through Simplifile, users can securely record, share and track documents, data and fees with ease.

To learn more, visit https://simplifile.com or call 800.460.5657.

Simplifile, a leading provider of real estate document collaboration and recording technologies for lenders, settlement agents and counties, today announced that St. Mary's County, Md., has adopted its e-recording service.

Related link: https://simplifile.com/