SRP Credit Union Gives Back with High School Affinity Debit Card Program

SRP Credit Union is putting its money where its heart is—right into the local schools. Through the SRP High School Affinity Debit Card Program, students, families, and supporters can help fund their high school just by making everyday purchases. Each time a transaction is made with a High School Affinity Debit Card, SRP donates money to that school.

The funds raised through the program can be used by schools to buy books, equipment, or other materials, and even help support school programs. Whether it's improving classroom supplies or funding extracurricular activities, the program offers schools the flexibility to use the money where it’s most needed.

So, if you want to help raise money for your school while going about your day-to-day life, consider getting a High School Affinity Debit Card from SRP. With each swipe, you’ll be making a difference for your school.

My husband is the environmental science guy in our family. But a friend recently started working for National Resource Conservation Service (NRCS), and I’m leearning how the federal government approaches BIPOC landowners. Interesting indeed. So, of course, I did a shallow dive and stuck a pin in this to come back to it later. -kg

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The environmental conservation industry involves numerous stakeholders and gatekeepers, each playing a significant role in shaping policies, allocating resources, and enforcing regulations. Here's a breakdown:

Gatekeepers in the Environmental Conservation Industry

1. Federal Agencies

   • USDA (United States Department of Agriculture): Oversees programs related to agriculture, forestry, and natural resources, including conservation efforts such as the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and the Farm Service Agency (FSA).

   • U.S. Forest Service: A division of the USDA, it manages national forests and grasslands, implementing policies for sustainable forest management and conservation.

   • EPA (Environmental Protection Agency): Regulates activities that impact the environment, such as pollution control, and enforces environmental laws.

2. State and Local Agencies

   • State departments of natural resources or environmental protection often have a significant say in land and resource conservation within their jurisdictions.

   • Conservation districts or boards at the county level help implement federal and state programs locally.

3. Private Organizations

   • Land Trusts and Conservation Nonprofits: Groups like The Nature Conservancy, Sierra Club, and local land trusts can influence conservation priorities and funding.

   • Foundations: Entities providing grants for conservation projects often act as gatekeepers by determining which initiatives receive financial support.

4. Academic and Research Institutions

   • Universities and think tanks provide data and recommendations that shape conservation policies and best practices.

5. Industry Stakeholders

   • Agricultural and Forestry Industries: Companies and trade associations may lobby to shape conservation policies that align with their business interests.

   • Developers and Landowners: Often resist conservation measures that could restrict land use or development potential.

Role of Lobbyists

• Influence Policy: Lobbyists, often representing industries, NGOs, or advocacy groups, work to shape conservation policy by lobbying Congress, federal agencies, and state governments.

• Funding Allocation: They can influence where conservation dollars go, such as funding for specific programs or grants.

• Regulatory Impact: Lobbyists may push for looser regulations or more stringent conservation rules, depending on their interests.

Impact on BIPOC Landowners

BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) landowners face systemic barriers in the environmental conservation sector:

1. Access to Resources

   • Historical exclusion from USDA programs, land grants, and conservation funding has left many BIPOC landowners without the same level of financial and technical support as white landowners.

   • Discriminatory practices, such as redlining and loan denial, have reduced land ownership and stewardship opportunities.

2. Generational Land Loss

   • Black and Indigenous communities, in particular, have faced systemic land dispossession due to legal loopholes (e.g., heirs' property laws) and predatory practices.

   • Limited access to legal assistance has made it difficult for these groups to retain their land.

3. Policy and Program Barriers

   • BIPOC landowners often face challenges navigating federal programs like those offered by the NRCS or FSA, which may have requirements that unintentionally disadvantage smaller or nontraditional farmers.

4. Environmental Justice Concerns

   • Many BIPOC communities are disproportionately impacted by environmental degradation, such as pollution or deforestation, with fewer resources to advocate for conservation or mitigation efforts.

5. Lack of Representation

   • BIPOC landowners and communities are underrepresented in decision-making bodies, which affects the prioritization of issues relevant to them.

Ways to Address These Challenges

• Equity in Funding: Increasing access to USDA and conservation grants for BIPOC landowners.

• Technical Assistance: Providing culturally relevant training and support to help navigate conservation programs.

• Legal Reforms: Addressing heirs' property laws and other legal structures that disadvantage BIPOC landowners.

• Community Advocacy: Amplifying the voices of BIPOC landowners in policy discussions through organizations like the Federation of Southern Cooperatives or Land Loss Prevention Project.

Understanding and dismantling these barriers is essential for equitable environmental conservation that includes and benefits all communities.

Creating art during cancer treatment allows patients to express challenging emotions

[source: UCLA Health]

Making art can be a fun and satisfying endeavor. But for people with cancer, it can also be a therapeutic tool of empowerment for getting through the rigors of medical treatment.

Board certified art therapist Paige Asawa, PhD, MFT(Link opens in new window), believes that expressing oneself is an important part of the path to recovery. The weekly Healing Through Art psychotherapy group, which she facilitates through the Simms Mann UCLA Center for Integrative Oncology(Link opens in new window), is intended to provide that empowerment – to help participants maintain some control over their feelings and mental state during and after treatment.

https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/creating-art-during-cancer-treatment-allows-patients-express

this post sponsored by MUSE: CANVAS

At Growing Augusta, we’re passionate about fostering connections within our community, and this October, we’re excited to highlight an incredible opportunity for collaboration between the agri-business and home improvement industries. The Augusta GA Land Bank Authority's Home Improvement and Renovation Expo on October 1st is the perfect platform to showcase how these sectors intersect, offering a wealth of potential business opportunities and innovative solutions for homeowners.

Why Agri-Business Matters in Home Improvement

Agri-business is not just about farming—it’s about creating sustainable, beautiful, and productive spaces that enhance our quality of life. Here’s how agri-business can play a pivotal role in home improvement and renovation:

1. Landscaping Services: Transform your yard into a lush oasis with plants, trees, and gardening supplies from local agri-businesses. Professional landscaping not only boosts curb appeal but also adds significant value to your property.

2. Urban Farming Installations: Imagine harvesting fresh vegetables from your rooftop garden or enjoying a vertical herb garden in your kitchen. Urban farming installations are becoming a popular trend in home renovations, blending practicality with sustainability.

3. Sustainable Building Materials: Choose eco-friendly building materials like bamboo, straw bales, and reclaimed wood for your renovation projects. These sustainable options are supplied by agri-businesses committed to reducing environmental impact.

4. Edible Landscaping: Combine beauty and utility by incorporating fruit trees, vegetable gardens, and herb beds into your landscaping plans. Edible landscaping provides fresh produce while enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your home.

5. Home Hydroponics and Aquaponics Systems: Install indoor or outdoor hydroponic and aquaponic systems to grow your own food year-round. These innovative systems are supplied and supported by local agri-businesses.

6. Composting Solutions: Turn kitchen waste into valuable fertilizer with composting systems and supplies from agri-businesses. Composting is an eco-friendly way to nourish your garden and reduce waste.

7. DIY Kits and Workshops: Get hands-on with DIY kits for home gardening, beekeeping, and other agri-business activities. Attend workshops to learn new skills and connect with like-minded individuals.

8. Green Roofs and Living Walls: Enhance your home’s energy efficiency and aesthetic appeal with green roofs and living walls. These features are not only beautiful but also promote sustainability.

9. Permaculture Design: Create a self-sufficient landscape with permaculture design services. Integrating natural ecosystems into your garden ensures a sustainable and productive environment.

10. Rainwater Harvesting Systems: Conserve water with rainwater harvesting systems, ideal for garden irrigation and home use. Agri-businesses provide and install these systems to support sustainable living.

11. Agricultural Tourism: Explore agri-tourism experiences that highlight home and garden improvement projects. Farm tours, workshops, and demonstrations offer inspiration and practical knowledge.

12. Pollinator-Friendly Gardens: Support local ecosystems by creating pollinator gardens. Native plants from agri-businesses attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, ensuring a thriving garden.

13. Farm-to-Table Renovations: Design outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and dining areas that complement homegrown food production. These enhancements enrich the farm-to-table experience.

14. Energy Efficiency: Incorporate renewable energy sources like solar panels and wind turbines into your home improvement plans. Agri-businesses provide the tools and support for a greener home.

Join Us at the Expo

We invite you to join us at the Augusta GA Land Bank Authority's Home Improvement and Renovation Expo on October 1st. This event is a fantastic opportunity to explore the synergy between agri-business and home improvement. Whether you’re a homeowner, a local business, or simply curious about the possibilities, the Expo promises to be an inspiring and informative experience.

Call to Action

Don’t miss out on this unique event! Register now to secure your spot at the Home Improvement and Renovation Expo. Learn how agri-business can enhance your home improvement projects and discover new opportunities for sustainable living.

Register today and join us on October 1st to explore the future of home improvement in Augusta. Together, we can create a more sustainable, beautiful, and productive community.

For more information and to register, email kgordon@growingaugusta.org. Reference code GA-LDC-24

We look forward to seeing you there!

Growing Augusta Team

S.T.O.P Mobile Farmers Market

August 2024 Availability (Updated Weekly):

The Stop Food Truck - Theme TBA

Whole Produce: Watermelons, Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Vidalia Onions, Peppers (Hot, Sweet), Mushrooms (Oyster, Lions Mane), Herbs

Honey: Raw Honey (Georgia Wildflower, Ginger, Cinnamon)

Meal Preps: Stir-Fry Mixes, Pico de Gallo, Southern Caviar

Value-Added Items: Pickled Beets, Hot Pepper Relish, Fig Preserves, Vegetable Medley

Beverages: Herb-Infused Water

PRE-ORDER HERE

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August 3,4-8p, The Stop Food Truck - A Taste of Italy

4103 Madeline Drive 30909

August 16, 11a-2p, The Stop Food Truck - TBA

735 James Brown Blvd 30901

August 16, 5-9p, The Stop Food Truck - TBA

4104 Windsor Spring Rd 30815

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NEWS:

https://theaugustapress.com/augustas-s-t-o-p-food-truck-is-launching-a-mobile-farmers-market/

https://augustagoodnews.com/mobile-farmers-market-rolls-out-july-19/

https://www.wrdw.com/video/2024/07/21/mobile-food-truck-providing-fresh-food-meals-2/

https://x.com/WRDW_WAGT/status/1815054173781610909

https://augustabusinessdaily.com/fresh-produce-and-more-rolls-into-the-csra-today/

https://augustaceo.com/news/2024/07/stop-food-truck-champions-sustainability-new-mobile-farmers-market/

https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/t-o-p-mobile-farmers-125241207.html

https://theaugustapress.com/augustas-s-t-o-p-food-truck-is-launching-a-mobile-farmers-market/

https://www.wrdw.com/2024/07/21/stop-food-truck-launches-mobile-food-market-initiative/

https://www.wjbf.com/csra-news/s-t-o-p-mobile-farmers-market-providing-locally-fresh-produce-for-csra/#:~:text=The%20S.T.O.P.,available%20throughout%20the%20Augusta%20area.

S.T.O.P Mobile Farmers Market

Menu:

Whole Produce: Watermelons, Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Vidalia Onions, Squash, Zucchini, Peppers (Hot, Sweet), Carrots, Mushrooms (Oyster, Lions Mane), Herbs

Honey: Raw Honey (Georgia Wildflower, Ginger, Cinnamon)

Meal Preps: Stir-Fry Mixes, Pico de Gallo, Southern Caviar, Root Veggie Mix

Value-Added Items: Pickled Beets, Hot Pepper Relish, Fig Preserves, Vegetable Medley

Beverages: Herb-Infused Water, Watermelon Juice, Horchata

The Stop Food Truck - A Taste of Mexico: Chipotle Chicken, Pork Carnita, Fish Taco, Shrimp Taco

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July 26, 2024,11a-2p “A Taste of Mexico”

Augusta GA Municipal Building 30901

July 20, 2024, 10a-2p “A Taste of Asia”

Canterbury Farms 30809

July 19, 2024, 5-9p “A Taste of Asia”

South Augusta Farmers Market 30815

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NEWS:

https://theaugustapress.com/augustas-s-t-o-p-food-truck-is-launching-a-mobile-farmers-market/

https://augustagoodnews.com/mobile-farmers-market-rolls-out-july-19/

https://www.wrdw.com/video/2024/07/21/mobile-food-truck-providing-fresh-food-meals-2/

https://x.com/WRDW_WAGT/status/1815054173781610909

https://augustabusinessdaily.com/fresh-produce-and-more-rolls-into-the-csra-today/

https://augustaceo.com/news/2024/07/stop-food-truck-champions-sustainability-new-mobile-farmers-market/

https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/t-o-p-mobile-farmers-125241207.html

https://theaugustapress.com/augustas-s-t-o-p-food-truck-is-launching-a-mobile-farmers-market/

https://www.wrdw.com/2024/07/21/stop-food-truck-launches-mobile-food-market-initiative/

https://www.wjbf.com/csra-news/s-t-o-p-mobile-farmers-market-providing-locally-fresh-produce-for-csra/#:~:text=The%20S.T.O.P.,available%20throughout%20the%20Augusta%20area.

Is a CSA Right for You? Exploring the Pros and Cons of Community Supported Agriculture

Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs have gained popularity as a way to enjoy fresh, local produce while directly supporting farmers. But is joining a CSA the right choice for you? Here are some pros and cons to help you decide.

🌱 Pros:

1. Farm-to-Table Freshness: CSAs offer produce that's often harvested just hours before it reaches your table. The fruits, vegetables, and herbs are at their peak ripeness, delivering exceptional flavor and nutrition.

2. Seasonal Variety: With a CSA, you get to enjoy the best of what’s in season. This encourages you to try new ingredients, explore different recipes, and eat with the rhythm of nature.

3. Support Local Farmers: By joining a CSA, you’re directly supporting local farmers. Your investment helps them plan for the season, manage risks, and sustain their farms.

🚫 Cons:

1. Limited Choice: CSAs typically provide a pre-selected box of produce based on what’s in season. While this can be exciting, it might not always align with your tastes or needs, especially if you’re a picky eater.

2. Seasonal Commitment: Many CSAs require a full-season commitment, which means you’re locked in even if your schedule or dietary needs change. If you travel often or have unpredictable plans, this could be a drawback.

3. Inconsistent Quantities: The bounty of your CSA box can vary week to week, depending on weather conditions and crop yields. Some weeks you might receive more than you can use, while other weeks may be leaner.

Considering a CSA? They’re a fantastic way to eat fresh, support your community, and reduce your carbon footprint. However, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons to ensure it aligns with your lifestyle and needs.

Call to Action: If you’re looking for fresh, local, seasonal fruits, vegetables, herbs, and even lightly prepped meals without the commitment of a CSA, follow the S.T.O.P. Mobile Farmers Market! We bring the farm to you with flexible options that fit your schedule and tastes.

Join us on our journey to eat fresh, support local, and enjoy the best of each season.

#FarmToTable #EatLocal #SupportFarmers

Augusta, GA, July 10, 2024 — This summer, THE STOP FOOD TRUCK, in partnership with Growing Augusta: Arts, Agriculture, & Agency, is thrilled to announce the launch of the "Sustainable, Tasty Outreach Project" (S.T.O.P.), an innovative mobile farmers market aimed at bringing fresh, local produce and prepared meals directly to the community. This new initiative will provide local farmers and producers with an exciting opportunity to expand their markets and increase their bottom line. 

The soft opening of the S.T.O.P. will feature a diverse selection of farm-fresh fruits and vegetables, meal-prepped items like meat and veggie kebabs, and convenient meal starters. Patrons can continue to enjoy THE STOP FOOD TRUCK's renowned prepared foods while also purchasing seasonal produce and meats sourced from local farms.

The S.T.O.P. provides small farmers with a unique opportunity to wholesale directly to food trucks and small restaurants. This model not only helps farmers sell their produce more efficiently but also encourages gleaning, reducing food waste and increasing profitability. 

By participating in S.T.O.P., local farmers can reach a broader audience, including areas of the Augusta region that may not have easy access to fresh, locally-sourced food. This initiative aims to support the local agricultural community by creating new revenue streams and fostering stronger connections between producers and consumers. 

"The S.T.O.P. is more than just a place to buy food; it’s a way to build community and ensure everyone has access to nutritious meals. We want our residents to feel connected to their food sources and to each other. This initiative is a testament to our commitment to health and wellness." — C. Joy Brown, South Augusta Farmers Market

S.T.O.P. Mobile Farmers Market schedule:

July 19, 5-9p, 4104 Windsor Spring Rd, 30815

July 20, 10a-2p, Canterbury Farms, 30809

July 26, 11a-2p, 535 Telfair Street, 30901

August 3, 4103 Madeline Drive, 30907

Menu Info, Media Inquiries, Pre-Orders:

Carolyn Henry, (762) 221-1331, info@thestopfoodtruck.com

Incorporating creative elements into garden spaces can transform them into unique and personal havens. Here are seven ideas to infuse creativity into your garden:

Artistic Planters:

Use unconventional containers such as old teapots, boots, or barrels as planters. This adds a quirky and artistic touch to the garden.

Themed Garden Areas:

Design sections of your garden based on themes, like a fairy garden with miniature houses and figurines, or a Zen garden with raked sand and rocks.

Vertical Gardens:

Create vertical gardens using wall-mounted planters, hanging pots, or repurposed pallets. This not only saves space but also adds a striking visual element.

Garden Art and Sculptures:

Incorporate sculptures, wind chimes, mosaics, or metal art into your garden. These pieces can serve as focal points and enhance the garden's aesthetic.

Lighting:

Use solar-powered garden lights, string lights, or lanterns to illuminate pathways and highlight plants. Creative lighting adds ambiance and allows you to enjoy your garden at night.

Water Features:

Install a small pond, a cascading waterfall, or a birdbath. Water features introduce soothing sounds and attract wildlife, adding life and movement to the garden.

Colorful Pathways:

Create pathways using colorful tiles, painted stones, or mosaic designs. These paths can guide visitors through the garden while adding bursts of color and creativity.

These ideas can help you personalize your garden, making it a beautiful and inspiring outdoor space.

When we think of innovative business models, it's easy to picture the sprawling tech hubs of Silicon Valley or the bustling streets of New York City. However, some of the most creative and impactful business strategies are emerging from mid-size cities like Savannah and Columbus, Georgia. These cities, with their unique blend of history, culture, and community, provide fertile ground for businesses to experiment with and implement groundbreaking ideas. Here, we'll highlight a few local businesses that have embraced innovation, showcasing how they stand out by prioritizing creativity in their approach to products, services, and customer experiences.

Savannah, GA: Where Tradition Meets Innovation

1. The Savannah Bee Company Savannah Bee Company is not just another honey shop; it's a beacon of innovation in the world of apiculture. Founded by Ted Dennard, this business has redefined the way we think about honey and bee products. Beyond selling a variety of artisanal honey, they offer educational experiences like beekeeping classes and honey tastings. Their product line includes not only edible honey but also beauty and health products derived from honey and beeswax. This holistic approach to business, combining retail with education and health, sets them apart in the marketplace.

2. Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) Pro SCAD Pro is an extension of the Savannah College of Art and Design, connecting students with real-world clients to solve creative challenges. This initiative bridges the gap between academia and industry, providing students with hands-on experience while offering businesses fresh, innovative solutions. Companies partner with SCAD Pro to harness the creativity and out-of-the-box thinking of its students, leading to groundbreaking designs and strategies that might not emerge from a traditional business model.

Columbus, GA: Blending Community and Commerce

1. Iron Bank Coffee Company Located in a historic bank building, Iron Bank Coffee Company is more than just a coffee shop. By preserving the building's original vaults and incorporating them into the café's design, they've created a unique atmosphere that draws in locals and tourists alike. Additionally, they host events like live music, poetry readings, and art exhibitions, making it a cultural hub in Columbus. Their commitment to community engagement and creating a unique customer experience is a prime example of how innovation can thrive in a seemingly simple business model.

2. Synovus Synovus, a financial services company based in Columbus, has redefined customer service in banking. They have implemented a personalized banking model, focusing on building relationships with customers rather than just transactions. Their innovative approach includes a strong emphasis on community involvement and support for local businesses, fostering a sense of loyalty and trust. By leveraging technology and a customer-centric approach, Synovus has managed to stand out in the competitive financial sector.

Conclusion: The Power of Creativity in Business

These examples from Savannah and Columbus demonstrate that innovation and creativity can flourish anywhere, not just in major metropolitan areas. By prioritizing unique customer experiences, community engagement, and creative problem-solving, businesses in mid-size cities can carve out distinctive niches and achieve remarkable success. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or an established business owner, there's much to learn from these inventive models. So, look around your community—there might be a wealth of inspiration right in your backyard, waiting to be tapped into.