Tag: 3BL

Committed to continuously developing an innovative and inclusive supply chain, Aramark proudly partners with a broad network of small organizations owned and operated by minorities, women, and other diverse populations.

Supplier diversity is not only a key supply chain and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiative for Aramark, it is a business imperative that delivers success for clients, consumers, and communities.

“Aramark’s commitment to working with small businesses and businesses owned and operated by minorities, women, and other diverse populations is key to forming strategic relationships that provide more culturally authentic products, increase value for our clients, and foster local economic impact,” said Natily Santos, Vice President of Responsible Sourcing at Aramark. “Supporting minority and women-owned business enterprises (M/WBEs) is an essential supply chain initiative that contributes greatly to our sustainability, community relations, and diversity and inclusion goals.”

Understanding that innovation, flexibility, and support are key to strengthening these relationships with diverse suppliers, Aramark takes a customized approach, adjusting to meet its partners’ unique needs in the geographies the company serves.

From providing access to mentoring and business development programs for regional M/WBEs, to supporting grants to local farms owned by Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC), below are some highlights of Aramark’s supplier diversity efforts from the past year.

Mentoring Regional Business Leaders

In summer 2022, Aramark announced the start of its second Centers of Excellence (COE) mentoring cohort with the Eastern Minority Supplier Development Council (EMSDC) and Southern California Minority Supplier Development Council (SCMSDC) to continue support of small businesses and businesses owned and operated by minorities, women, and other diverse populations across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, and southern California.

Through the three-month mentoring program, Aramark executives and volunteers from Aramark’s employee resource groups (ERGs) provide skills training, best practices sharing, executive coaching sessions, and more.

During the 2022 COE program, which ended in September, 15 Aramark volunteer coaches, eight Aramark subject matter experts, and 15 M/WBE mentees worked together to share knowledge and grow professionally and personally.

Chicago Business Management Education Program

Aramark partners with the Chicago Minority Supplier Development Council (Chicago MSDC) for the Progress, Insight, and Performance Education (PIPE) program for M/WBEs.

This eight-week, advanced business management program, taught in collaboration with the University of Phoenix, provides participants with the skills and knowledge needed to optimize their businesses. Topics include strategic planning, managing organizational goals, business ethics, supply chain, and project management.

Fourteen people from M/WBE businesses participated in the fifth PIPE cohort program, which concluded in December 2022.

“I was so busy working on the business that I had forgotten the importance of evaluating the current status of our organization,” said 2022 graduate Jeanetta Hawkins, owner of Personal Touches by Jeanetta (PTBJ), a special events design, production, and unique rental company. “Completing the PIPE program was one of the best decisions that I could have made. Gaining insight on best practices and tools that can be implemented into PTBJ immediately was epic!”

Participating PIPE business owners work in a variety of industries, including arts and entertainment, construction, facility services, food preparation, hospitality, IT, promotions, transportation, and utilities.

Nearly 50 business leaders have graduated from the PIPE program since 2020 across eight different states in the U.S.

“Participating in these supplier diversity initiatives through our Chicago MSDC partnership is so rewarding and has contributed to my personal growth,” said Octavia G. Matthews, Vice President of Strategic Partnerships, Aramark Facilities Management. “I am a member of the MBE Certification Committee and for three years have served as an ethics instructor in the PIPE program. This unique work allows me to intersect my commitment to our facilities business growth, MBE development, and community service in greater Chicagoland.”

To find out more about the Chicago PIPE program, watch the 2022 video or read the 2021 press release.

Cultivating Minority Farmers and Sustainable Agriculture

This year, Aramark supported efforts to ensure the sustainability of BIPOC owned or managed farms and agricultural nonprofits.

In all, 17 U.S. farms in 11 states (including California’s EARTHseed Farm, pictured at top) received Aramark grants through The FruitGuys Community Fund Grant program in 2022.

Aramark has committed to supporting a similar number of BIPOC farms for the 2023 and 2024 grant cycles.

“BIPOC and independent farmers are critical to growing great food and strengthening local communities. In our experience, it is often the smaller, independent farms that are the drivers of a diverse food system while welcoming the next generation of farmers,” said Chris Mittelstaedt, Founder and CEO, The FruitGuys. “Grants to The FruitGuys Community Fund allow for the funding of diverse sustainable agriculture projects that have positive impacts on the environment, local food webs, and farm diversity. We are grateful to Aramark for their support.”

Recognized for Partnering with Women-Owned Businesses

Aramark received a Done Deals Award from the Women’s Business Enterprise Council East Region (WBEC-East) in late 2022 for purchasing from and partnering with WBEs.

The annual awards recognize member organizations that demonstrate the highest financial spend with certified WBE suppliers in the Pennsylvania, southern New Jersey, and Delaware region over a 12-month reporting cycle. More than $40 million worth of goods and services were sourced by Aramark during the period.

A strategic supplier diversity partner for more than 10 years, WBEC-East supports Aramark’s WBE engagement and sourcing efforts. Aramark previously won Done Deals awards in 2016 and 2018 and in 2021 won a Resiliency Award which recognizes a council member who showcases a commitment to continuous improvement, overcoming obstacles, sustainability, and focus on innovation and positive change.

Supplier Diversity Overview

Aramark’s robust supply chain includes more than 4,500 small businesses and other diverse suppliers or subcontractors, including 1,542 supplier relationships with M/WBEs across the enterprise in the U.S.

In fiscal year 2022, Aramark’s spend with small businesses and diverse suppliers exceeded $727 million, including approximately $385 million with M/WBEs.

Nearly 7,000 jobs are supported through Aramark’s supplier diversity spend, with $1.2 billion of total economic impact attributed to the company’s supplier diversity program in fiscal year 2022.

In addition, Aramark has set a goal to spend 25 percent of company supply chain purchases with small and diverse businesses by 2025.

CHARLOTTE, N.C., Febryary 16, 2023 /3BL Media/ – Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions (DESS) has acquired Pike Solar, a new solar power plant being constructed to serve customers of Colorado Springs Utilities. Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions is a nonregulated commercial brand of Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK).

DESS acquired the solar project from JUWI Inc. (JUWI), a global solar power developer.

Containing more than 414,000 solar panels on about 1,310 acres just outside the city limits of Colorado Springs, Colo., Pike Solar will provide 175 megawatts of electricity to Colorado Springs Utilities customers. That is enough electricity to power approximately 46,300 homes.

Under a 17-year agreement, Colorado Springs Utilities will purchase the electricity Pike Solar generates. Under the terms of the acquisition, JUWI is responsible for the engineering, procurement and construction of the project. The solar modules are being procured by DESS.

JUWI and DESS will each have operation and maintenance responsibilities. With this addition, DESS has three solar projects in Colorado totaling 248 megawatts.

“We’re pleased to continue expanding our solar portfolio in Colorado,” said Chris Fallon, president of Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions. “This project will support the renewable energy goals of Colorado Springs Utilities and allow them to reduce energy costs while providing diverse and cleaner energy solutions for their customers.”

“This is an exciting development for us as Pike Solar will be the largest solar facility on our system and represents a significant step on our journey to diversify our energy mix,” said Travas Deal, acting chief executive officer for Colorado Springs Utilities. “Projects like Pike Solar are integral to our ability to reach our Energy Vision goal of achieving 80% carbon reduction by 2030.”

The solar plant is under construction with current activities focused on civil work and racking installation, and is scheduled to achieve commercial operation in late 2023.

“The realization of the Pike Solar project marks another milestone in our company’s history. Pike Solar is our company’s largest single project worldwide. We are pleased to work with Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions, Colorado Springs Utilities Board and El Paso County’s local officials to add additional clean and cost-effective generation in Colorado, our home base in the U.S.,” says JUWI’s Group COO Stephan Hansen.

The project is expected to employ 350 at peak construction. Along with indirect economic benefits that accompany solar project development, such as increased local spending in the service and construction industries, the Pike Solar facility will also have a positive economic impact on the local community by providing significant tax revenues for area public schools.

As one of the nation’s top renewable energy providers, Duke Energy has more than 10,500 MW of solar and wind energy.

About Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions

Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions is a leader in sustainable energy, helping large enterprises reduce power costs, lower emissions and increase resiliency. The team provides wind, solar, resilient backup power and managed energy services to over 1,000 projects across the U.S., with a total electric capacity of more than 5,100 megawatts of nonregulated renewable energy.

Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions is a nonregulated commercial brand of Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company and one of the largest energy holding companies in the U.S., headquartered in Charlotte, N.C.

The brand includes the following subsidiaries of Duke Energy Corporation that are registered to transact business in various states and may be branded as Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions for marketing purposes: Duke Energy One, Inc.; Duke Energy Commercial Enterprises, Inc.; Duke Energy Renewables, Inc.; Duke Energy Renewables Commercial, LLC; Duke Energy Renewable Services, LLC.; Duke Energy Renewables Storage, LLC; Duke Energy Renewables Wind, LLC.; Duke Energy Renewables Solar, LLC.; and REC Solar Commercial Corporation.

About JUWI Inc.

The JUWI Group has been one of the leading specialists of renewable energy for more than 25 years and offers complete project development as well as other services related to the planning, construction, and operational management of renewable energy plants. The main business areas include projects with wind and solar energy as well as hybrid systems with storage for industrial applications.

JUWI employs more than 1,200 people worldwide. Outside of Germany, the company has subsidiaries in Italy, Greece, South Africa, the USA (Colorado-based HQ), Japan, Australia, India, the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam and Singapore.

To date, JUWI has implemented more than 1,200 wind energy plants with a capacity of more than 2,800 megawatts at approximately 200 locations worldwide in the wind segment. In the solar segment, the company has executed on approximately 1,850 PV plants with a total capacity of nearly 3,250 megawatts. JUWI’s operations management group services wind energy and photovoltaic plants with a capacity of more than 4,100 megawatts.

About Colorado Springs Utilities  

For generations, Colorado Springs Utilities has provided electricity, natural gas, water and wastewater services to the Pikes Peak region. As a community-owned utility, its customers enjoy competitive prices, exceptional hometown service, responsible environmental practices and a voice in how their utility operates. Learn more at csu.org.

Media Contact: Valerie Patterson
24-Hour: 800.559.3853

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LOS ANGELES, January 26, 2023 /3BL Media/ – According to the fifth annual “Writing Off the End of the Year” survey commissioned by Herbalife Nutrition, while 60% of Americans planned to break their healthy diets at the end of the year, almost half (46%) planned to make a New Year’s resolution, many of which are focused on improving their health. Like last year’s findings, one-third (33%) of Americans who make New Year’s resolutions have doubts they will be able to stick to their goals.

“The New Year is an excellent time to get back on track with a renewed commitment to year-round health, but many consumers are falling short of their goals for a healthier lifestyle because they don’t plan for success,” said Dr. Kent Bradley, Chief Health and Nutrition Officer, Herbalife Nutrition. “It’s important to keep in mind that the most successful New Year’s health resolutions combine nutritious balanced diets and exercise, along with specific and attainable goals.”

The study, commissioned by Herbalife Nutrition, surveyed 2,000 Americans and 2,750 international respondents from five different countries. It examined pre, during and post-holiday eating habits and attitudes, revealing that over half (53%) admitted to breaking their diets at the end of the year, with 37% saying that was specifically due to holiday food temptations. The average respondent said they expected to gain five and a half pounds before 2023, in addition to any weight they’re still carrying from last year’s holiday season. However, this year’s research shows that respondents expected to gain two and a half pounds less than last year’s survey (eight pounds) which may reflect a heightened commitment to better health and wellness because of the pandemic.

In addition, the survey revealed that the top New Year’s resolutions for 2023 demonstrate that consumers are prioritizing health, nutrition, and wellness. In fact, of the 46% of people who planned to make New Year’s resolutions for 2023, a 7% increase from last year (39%), health goals continue to top the list:

Save more money (57%)Eat healthier (55%)Exercise more (54%)Focus on self-care (49%)Improve work/life balance (42%)

However, while almost half of respondents are actively setting resolutions for 2023, keeping these resolutions can be easier said than done with most consumers quitting shortly after the beginning of the year. In fact, studies show that only about 8% of people keep their resolutions year-round.

“Historically, whenever people set health-related New Year’s resolutions, they tend to be weight related and extreme like daily visits to the gym, setting out to rid one’s cabinets of all unhealthy foods, or even following fad diets,” explained Bradley. “What many people tend to overlook is that better health and fitness isn’t a quick fix, but that taking a balanced, realistic approach and embracing health and fitness as a lifestyle can help ensure long-term success.”

Bradley recommends these five attainable New Year’s resolutions to help people lose holiday weight and achieve better health in the New Year and beyond:

Take small and specific steps. Resolve to “workout three times a week” rather than “exercise more” or “add 1 vegetable to each meal” rather than “eat more vegetables.” Starting small is manageable and easy to build upon.Use the buddy system. Find a friend or group of like-minded people to support you and help keep each other accountable.Avoid fad diets. Fad diets do not address the problems that cause people to gain weight and tend to require the elimination of foods that aren’t unhealthy, which can result in nutritional deficiencies.Incorporate protein in every meal. Protein helps build and maintain lean muscle mass. It also helps to make meals more satisfying. Including protein-rich foods like lean meat, poultry, eggs, legumes, and seeds at every meal and snack helps satisfy hunger over the course of the day.Ditch the “all or nothing” mentality. Letting go of the “all or nothing” mentality will help you stay consistent and get moving daily. Something is always better than nothing. If there isn’t time for a 30-minute workout, do 15. This also goes for diet. If you eat off plan, don’t see it as failure and throw in the towel. Instead, take stock and adjust your diet to ensure it’s fulfilling and meeting your nutritional needs.

Additional resources for living a healthy active lifestyle can be found at IamHerbalifeNutrition.com.

About Herbalife Nutrition 
Herbalife Nutrition (NYSE: HLF) is a global company that has been changing people’s lives with great nutrition products and a business opportunity for its independent distributors since 1980. The Company offers science-backed products to consumers in 95 markets through entrepreneurial distributors who provide one-on-one coaching and a supportive community that inspires their customers to embrace a healthier, more active lifestyle. Through the Company’s commitment to nourish people, communities and planet, Herbalife Nutrition pledges to achieve 50 million positive impacts – tangible acts of good – by 2030, its 50th anniversary.

Media Contact: 
Gary Kishner 
213-745-0456 
GaryKi@herbalife.com

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DAVIDSON, N.C., February 16, 2023 /3BL Media/ – Trane® – by Trane Technologies (NYSE: TT), a global climate innovator – and Hall County, Georgia, have completed a comprehensive energy and infrastructure upgrade on the Hall County Government Center.

Working consultatively with the Hall County construction and facilities teams, Trane identified and implemented energy efficiency and indoor environmental quality improvements in the Government Center to meet the requirements of a modern office space in the Southeast and support the County’s energy reduction goals.

The five-floor 131,000-square-foot building, built in 1982, underwent significant renovations over 18 months. Building upgrades included a heating and cooling plant conversion to help improve system performance, efficiency, reliability, and serviceability; air distribution reconfiguration for improved comfort and indoor air quality throughout the building; and an advanced building automation controls platform to replace the building’s outdated technology.

The County also took advantage of the opportunity to upgrade the building’s decades-old interior fluorescent lighting system to high-efficiency LED fixtures. In addition to improving light levels and overall aesthetics, the new system included important energy-saving features such as sensors that turn lights on and off as rooms are occupied, dimmers in key areas, and daylight sensors that automatically adjust interior light levels near windows.

“This was a significant, much-needed renovation project that will serve our County well for many years to come,” said Hall County Assistant County Administrator Katie Crumley. “Working with Trane, we now have a Government Center facility that operates more efficiently and sustainably, while creating a more comfortable, welcoming and productive environment for employees and citizens alike.”

The County is expected to realize an approximately 35% reduction in energy usage annually, or roughly 950,000 kWh in electricity as a result of the improvements. This equals nearly 675 metric tons of reduced carbon emissions, the equivalent of more than 1.6 million miles driven by an average passenger vehicle or more than 130 homes’ electricity use each year.

“On behalf of the entire Trane project team, it has been a privledge to work with Hall County on this innovative project,” said Thomas Brown, account manager, Comprehensive Solutions, Trane. “Together, we have implemented a highly-efficient building solution that creates a more comfortable indoor environment for employees and visitors; reduces the County’s energy consumption and operational costs and, importantly, yields a positive impact for the community for decades to come.”

# # #

About Hall County, Georgia 
Hall County, Georgia, bordered on the west by Lake Lanier, lies at the southern edge of the Chattahoochee National Forest and the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. For nearly two centuries, Hall County has been the focal point for arts, education, government and business in Northeast Georgia. With top ratings from Forbes and Site Selection Magazine for business and careers, Hall County continues to attract new businesses and residents by offering the best quality of life in the Southeast. For more information about Hall County Government, visit hallcounty.org.

About Trane 
Trane – by Trane Technologies (NYSE: TT), a global climate innovator – creates comfortable, energy efficient indoor environments for commercial and residential applications. For more information, please visit www.trane.com or www.tranetechnologies.com.

About Trane Technologies 
Trane Technologies is a global climate innovator. Through our strategic brands Trane® and Thermo King®, and our portfolio of environmentally responsible products and services, we bring efficient and sustainable climate solutions to buildings, homes and transportation. Visit tranetechnologies.com.

By Dan Lambe

The Arbor Day Foundation has been part of multiple movements to drive the planting and stewardship of forests, and I’m pleased to share that we’ve joined another. The United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration — a truly one-of-a-kind effort — recently named the Arbor Day Foundation as a supporting partner.

The U.N. Decade on Ecosystem Restoration is stimulating an urgency around using nature-based solutions, like trees and forests, to fight climate change. This campaign is designed to bring together environmental leaders around the world to seize a moment in time in which we can make a game-changing impact together. We are proud to leverage our global network and experience along with the U.N. and the other supporting partners to help drive this important work. Our team, our members and our partners are committed to making a meaningful impact through the planting and protecting of forest lands.

There has never been a more important time for trees.

When it comes to combating climate change, researchers point to trees as one of the most scalable and affordable solutions available to start helping right now. For 50 years, the Arbor Day Foundation has prioritized a focused approach to planting, making sure every single tree matters. Being deliberate about what kind of trees we plant and where, is a vital factor in accelerating the impact of forests.

We look forward to bringing our 50 years of learning to the table and help the U.N. Decade on Ecosystem Restoration campaign ensure trees and forests remain part of the solution to some of the world’s most pressing issues facing people and the planet.

The Arbor Day Foundation is dialing into key regions around the world where we believe trees can have the greatest impact on climate, community and biodiversity. We’re fostering relationships with indigenous communities and forestry leaders who can help us deliver on that promise. In many ways, those priorities mirror the flagship initiatives for the U.N. Decade on Ecosystem Restoration campaign. That includes restoring critical ecosystems like the Atlantic Rainforest and restoring the Central American Dry Corridor.

As a supporting partner for the U.N. Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, we want to lean into what we’ve always done, finding creative financial opportunities for restoration and celebrating the great work being done in communities. We also want to show people both the beauty and utility of a tree. As we stare down the looming threats of climate change, these sprawling giants of nature foster a sense of hopefulness. They are an unmatched source of natural positivity.

By helping to protect ecosystems with trees, we are reassured and reminded that everyone can play a part in this pursuit to create a more resilient and healthier planet.

Dan Lambe is CEO of the Arbor Day Foundation, the largest nonprofit membership organization dedicated to planting trees. He can be reached at dlambe@arborday.org.

Making his way through the forest, he spots an eagle’s nest and immediately snaps into action. He maps the location, sets up barriers to close down a nearby road, and starts marking a protective boundary around it.

It sounds like the work of a wildlife biologist or a park ranger. But this was actually a recent day at work for Rayonier forester Charlie Dunn.

In addition to developing sustainable forestry practices that protect natural ecosystems whilst providing the world with essential timber products, foresters are trained in identifying and protecting vulnerable species.

Even in working forest settings.

One such species is the bald eagle. These once rare and majestic birds are protected under Federal Law and live in forests throughout North America. They also love nesting in tall trees, which makes them a frequent feature in many of Rayonier’s forests.

To learn more about what goes into protecting these species, we talked to two Rayonier foresters with experience in eagle identification and preservation.

Understanding Laws That Protect Bald Eagles

Once an endangered species, bald eagles have made a comeback and were removed from the Federal Endangered Species list on June 28, 2007. However, they are still protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and other federal laws.

This means commercial foresters are charged with protecting bald eagle nests throughout North America.

Charlie, whose official title is resource land manager, explains: “We follow the National Guidelines for Bald Eagles and there are two different buffer zones, one for nesting season and one for non-nesting season.”

And since bald eagles typically return to their same nesting sites for life, their nests remain permanent, undisturbed features in our forests.

Per Ben Cazell, Rayonier’s Manager of Sustainable Forestry: “Even if you’ve found a nest and you haven’t witnessed activity in it, that’s a no-go zone. So that area will always be protected unless the tree naturally falls.”

Part of Ben’s job is to visit various forests throughout the country to ensure foresters are well-versed and equipped to identify and protect vulnerable species like the bald eagle.

Ben and Charlie shared some more interesting facts about bald eagle nesting habits and what’s required to protect them.

The Nesting Habits of Bald Eagles And How Foresters Protect Them

Where do eagles typically nest?

“Eagles typically place their nests where they can feed, so often near water sources,” Charlie explains. “The nests are usually in live tall trees and on the edge of a swamp, so they have a good view of the land. But usually, they stand out like a sore thumb. Once you’ve seen one they’re pretty easy to spot.”

Ben adds that eagles’ nests are about four to six feet wide, about the size of a large desk.

According to the National Eagle Center, the largest bald eagle nest on record was found in St. Petersburg, Florida, and was 9.5 feet in diameter, 20 feet deep and weighed almost 3 tons!

Eagles’ nests are made up of intertwined twigs and branches and lined with grass, corn stalks and other materials. They fill the bowl with soft materials like moss, which can also repel insects, and their own downy feathers.

Their nest building season, which is part of the breeding season, varies a bit based on the region, beginning in November and December in southern areas and extending roughly through May.

“During the active nesting time, there are circles or buffer zones required around the eagle’s nest. So, during nesting season there is to be no activity within 660 feet, then it reduces to 330 feet during inactive nesting times,” Ben says. “For any aerial work, you can’t be within 1000 feet.”

What exactly does “no activity mean?” There can be no clear cutting, spraying, or mechanized active forest management within the designated buffer zone. This ensures the eagles aren’t stressed during their breeding or non-breeding seasons.

Ben says even if a harvest was taking place well outside the range, the vehicle delivering the load of logs could not drive in the range. The harvest plan would have to incorporate a forest road outside the eagle’s buffer area.

Once an eagle establishes a nest, they are likely to return to that same location year after year, especially if they hatch young successfully. They may also build additional nests or decoy nests, so if one nest is spotted, one or several more nests may be nearby.

What Happens Once A Bald Eagle Nest Is Identified In A Rayonier Forest

“The first thing that happens when we see a nest is we incorporate the location within our GIS map layers,” Ben says. “Then, we look at our activities around the area to make sure we’re not interfering with the national guidelines for bald eagles.”

Technology has made this job much easier for foresters by allowing everyone to communicate on their nest location.

Charlie explains the exact process he used to alert everyone to the nest he found in one of our North Florida forests: “On our phones we have the Collector App and it has our whole GIS layers of information for Rayonier. When we’re out in the woods and find something unique, we can drop a pin on the phone and submit it and everyone in Rayonier can see that point. Then our GIS specialists can help get those things more permanent in the system.”

Once the nest is identified, it will be protected for the duration of the tree’s life.

More On Our Holistic Approach To Protecting Endangered And Vulnerable Species

Rayonier has systems set up to ensure foresters are aware of and able to protect a variety of threatened and vulnerable species, including bald eagles, that have the potential to be in our forests.

If someone sees something, for example a red-cockaded woodpecker, they will place a pin on Rayonier’s mapping system to alert anyone else who is in that forest about the sighting.

But even if a vulnerable species isn’t seen on a property, foresters are trained to keep a lookout for the species and its habitat. They use state data as well as a service called NatureServe, which details information about the species, food sources, habitat, mating activity, etc.

Whenever activity is going to take place on a site, such as a harvest, the forester will look for signs of the species and its habitat.

“Then the next step would be to tell our contractors, we have a handout for them — so if they see them, they know to back off and call us. So, we do due diligence on paper, field review and educate our contractors.”

Ben added that some protected species are specific to the state in terms of how threatened they are and what’s required to protect them.

“It’s really an integrated approach to make sure we protect habitat, and certainly if we encounter a species we do what’s appropriate based on the management plans, which are species specific. With the Red Hills salamander in Alabama, we can’t do any harvesting in their habitat, but with bald eagles we can work around them based on the season.”

Sometimes you can be active, sometimes you can’t, and sometimes you can’t do anything.

“Our foresters who are making decisions in the woods are empowered with that information. And if there’s any confusion, that’s where I fall in,” Ben says. “I was just working with a forester planning an active timber harvest where the usual haul road would have passed within a 660 foot buffer zone of an active eagle’s nest. So, we looked at the map and found some old trails that weren’t in the buffer zone and decided to re-route our haul road activities using the identified trails to avoid disturbing the nest site.

“We do our due diligence and then implement what is acceptable based on the rules, regulations and our internal procedures.”

Being Good Stewards Of The Land

Yes, foresters and sustainable forestry companies protect endangered and vulnerable species because it’s the law. But we also do it because we love and care about wildlife.

Charlie put it best: “A lot of people don’t realize that we do other things besides just cut timber and plant trees. We do manage our species if they’re vulnerable and make sure they’re viable in the future. We have to, first of all, but we do it because we want to as well. To make sure those species are there for our future generations of kids and grandkids to see.”

More proof that foresters truly are the original environmentalists.

To learn more about laws in place to protect bald eagles, visit The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service or for more detailed information including local habitats, protection levels, buffer zone requirements, etc. check out NatureServe.org.

For 21 years, Mobile Care Chicago has worked with local schools to provide a convenient and trusted location for children who have complex healthcare needs, but whose parents may not have the time, transportation, or means to access more distant brick-and-mortar clinics. Mobile Care Chicago currently operates 2 asthma vans for children with severe asthma and/or allergies, a dental van for children who need oral surgery, and a portable dental clinic.

Through a grant provided by Quest Diagnostics Incorporated, Mobile Care Chicago will now be able to expand their van’s reach to 10 new sites across Chicagoland providing pediatric immunizations, physicals, and asthma management.

“Mobile Care Chicago provides important services surveilling underserved and vulnerable children with asthma and other respiratory ailments,” said Matt Hamlin, Vice President and General Manager of the Great Midwest Region. “Quest Diagnostics is privileged to support their mission through Quest for Health Equity as we focus on serving communities across the city of Chicago and broader Cook County, Illinois.”

On a cold winter morning in Chicago, Matt and Michael Floyd, Senior Director of Quest for Health Equity, visited one of the colorful mobile clinics to meet the Mobile Care Chicago Team and see one of the van’s operations in action.

Matt Siemer, executive director at Mobile Care Chicago expressed his gratitude for the support of Quest Diagnostics, “It was wonderful for Quest to visit our mobile clinic in the community and see the difference their donation is making in the lives of families every day. We’re grateful for the support provided and the opportunity to reach an even greater number of people who need access to asthma and allergy care!”

“I was proud to show how our program supporters make asthma specialty care accessible,” said Melinda Fitzgerald, nurse practitioner at Mobile Care Chicago. “Thank you for coming out on a cold Monday and supporting access to pediatric specialty care!”

To learn more about Mobile Care Chicago, click here.

February 15, 2023 /3BL Media/ – Aramark (NYSE: ARMK), the provider of food, facilities, and uniform services to millions of people in 19 countries around the world, today announced a new partnership with the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF), the nation’s largest organization exclusively representing the Black College Community, to launch the Aramark HBCU Emerging Leaders Program.

The HBCU Emerging Leaders Program will offer 15 students from HBCUs a two-day immersion at Aramark’s headquarters in Philadelphia, PA, focusing on career exploration and professional development. Alabama A&M University, Alabama State University, Bowie State University, Cheyney University of Pennsylvania, Florida A&M University, Norfolk State University, Tuskegee University, and Winston Salem State University will all be represented.

Students attending this immersion will have the opportunity to engage in planned simulations, network with executive leadership, participate in discussions about internships and post-graduation career opportunities, and provide Aramark with vital consumer insights.

“We are incredibly excited to partner with an organization committed to ensuring that HBCU students have concrete professional experiences and access to leadership opportunities,” said Camille Mosley, Vice President for HBCU Engagement. “TMCF ensures that its students are thriving in a broad range of places and spaces as they embark on their careers. We are privileged to be a part of this journey.”

This fully sponsored, highly competitive program was open to students majoring in hospitality, culinary arts, business management, economics, marketing, information technology, retail management, human resources, supply chain management, accounting, finance, project management, and management information systems. This breadth of studies reflects the wide range of opportunities at a multi-national enterprise like Aramark.

The HBCU Emerging Leaders Program kicks off with a welcome reception hosted by Aramark’s Collegiate Hospitality leadership and members of LEAD, Aramark’s employee resource group dedicated to team members who self-identify as Black, African American, West Indian, or of African descent, as well as allies. The following day includes a tour of the corporate headquarters, meetings with executives, career development sessions, and an open exchange with Aramark employees who graduated from HBCUs. The final day will include immersive experience participating in the annual LEAD ERG summit.

“We are delighted to partner with Aramark for the upcoming HBCU Emerging program in Philadelphia,” said Dr. Harry Williams, President and CEO of Thurgood Marshall College Fund. “This is another example and strategic partnership that allows us to work with companies to achieve their DEI goals. It’s also great that our participating students are being exposed to all the terrific careers in the hospitality industry.”

As part of Aramark’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, Aramark proudly supports Historically Black Colleges and Universities and is committed to an equitable workplace, engaging employees and building trust in an environment where differences are valued.

“This program was named Emerging Leaders because we look to these students as the future of our industry and Aramark,” said Jack Donovan, CEO and President of Aramark Collegiate Hospitality. “This partnership demonstrates our commitment to HBCU institutions and the students that they serve. We can’t wait to see how our program participants leverage their potential, and we hope that this experience supports their pathways to success.”

Aramark’s commitment to people is a core part of the company’s environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) plan, Be Well. Do Well., focused on positively impacting people and the planet. Aramark’s people priority is to facilitate access to opportunities that will improve the well-being of the company’s employees, consumers, communities, and people in its supply chain.

Marathon Petroleum’s Los Angeles refinery received multiple awards for its community investment and volunteerism that was focused on helping students of all ages.The Carson Chamber of Commerce, the Los Angeles Harbor College and Young Horizons Child Development Centers each recognized Marathon for service and investment to improve the lives of others.Last year, hundreds of Marathon employees and contractors donated their time and resources for a wide range of projects that benefited the community.

Marathon Petroleum’s Los Angeles refinery added multiple awards to its list of recognitions for continuous work in the community. The Los Angeles Harbor College, Young Horizons Child Development Centers and the Carson Chamber of Commerce each recognized Marathon for its dedication to the organizations in 2022.

Philanthropist of the Year

At its holiday appreciation event in December, the Los Angeles Harbor College (LAHC) named the Los Angeles refinery its 2022 Philanthropist of the Year for the refinery’s continued investments in the college, which serves the South Bay region of Los Angeles.

Most recently, LAHC was one of 13 community colleges across the country to receive a workforce development grant to fund student scholarships—part of the $2.26 million raised at the 2022 MPCgives Invitational. The annual charitable golf and networking event supports community investments and grants.

“These scholarship dollars will allow our students to worry less about the potential costs involved in obtaining their degrees, and more about all that the college experience has to offer both in and outside of the classroom,” said Dr. Luis Dorado, President at LAHC.

Champion of Children

Employees from the Los Angeles refinery and MPLX attended the Young Horizons Child Development Centers annual gala in Long Beach, California, where it was announced Marathon was its 2022 Champion of Children recipient. This is the nonprofit’s highest honor and given to Marathon for its support of the centers’ work in the community to provide quality childcare and preschool programs.

Last year, Marathon provided funding to improve and expand access to high-speed internet and sponsored the organization’s annual fundraising event.

“We are truly honored to accept this noteworthy award,” said CP Patsatzis, Vice President of Refining at Marathon Petroleum. “The work of Young Horizons is essential in helping our community thrive. For this reason and many others, Marathon is proud to support this great organization.”

Corporate Leadership

Earlier in 2022, the refinery received the Corporate Leadership Award from the Carson Chamber of Commerce for being a good corporate partner in the City of Carson, as well as its ongoing commitment and dedication—highlighted by the refinery’s summer-long project at Andrew Carnegie STEAM Academy that completely transformed the school’s campus ahead of the 2022—2023 school year.

On January 10th, International Paper Orange Mill awarded $63,000 in community grants to local organizations who are making the region a better place. Since 2013, the Orange Mill has awarded over $580k worth of foundation grant awards! Thank you to our dedicated team members!

About International Paper

International Paper (NYSE: IP) is a leading global supplier of renewable fiber-based products. We produce corrugated packaging products that protect and promote goods, and enable worldwide commerce, and pulp for diapers, tissue and other personal care products that promote health and wellness. Headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., we employ approximately 38,000 colleagues globally. We serve customers worldwide, with manufacturing operations in North America, Latin America, North Africa and Europe. Net sales for 2021 were $19.4 billion. Additional information can be found by visiting InternationalPaper.com.

About International Paper – EMEA

In Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA), International Paper focuses on the production and marketing of fiber-based packaging and pulp, employing approximately 4,200 people. As a leading supplier of high-quality corrugated containers for a multitude of applications, we serve customers throughout the region from our network of two recycled containerboard mills and 23 box plants in France, Italy, Morocco, Portugal and Spain. Pulp production is centered in Gdansk, Poland. Other products available from International Paper in the region include Kraft linerboard and recycled containerboard, as well as pulp.