Richard Rutter的动态

Our ninth example in the Joy Here and There series, where we celebrate examples of joy in city building, is The Canvas, a self-professed “Happy Café” in East London. In 2014, London seemed determined to be the second-most unwelcoming city in the world, so what better place to build a welcoming Happy Café? The purpose of The Canvas was to unite people with space and support to solve local problems and make life better for everyone in the community. Beyond being a place to enjoy a cup of coffee, The Canvas offered self-esteem and confidence workshops and theatre space. It also hosted an ever-changing handwritten debate on the café walls, encouraging self-expression as a means to build a sense of community. The walls were a “canvas” for the thoughts of customers, whether ideas, pleas, stories, or secrets. Sadly, The Canvas did not survive the post-pandemic financial crisis, but we hope that owner Ruth Rogers will find a way to re-open because these smaller connection points are vital to a thriving community. Studies show that interaction with secondary connections, such as the barista at the coffee house or the cashier at the grocery store, adds to our sense of belonging and happiness. To stay up to date on their plans, visit thecanvascafe.org. #citybuilding #cityliving #socialconnection #lonelinessepidemic #communitybuilding #joyfulcities #joyexperiments

Had a great day with the Sunbury Revitalization team this weekend! A few weeks ago, I ran a training for their team and facilitated a dinner for local businesses. On Saturday, we built upon that momentum and hosted a community block party to collect the ideas, stories, and dreams of local residents when thinking about the future they want to create for their downtown. Here’s how we did it. We leveraged an approach I call the 3P’s: Pause, Possibility, Participation. We started with music, big colorful flags, and free cookies and popcorn. That was enough to cause people to pause and wonder what was going on. The first step is to always disrupt people’s routine. Next we invited them complete three simple stations that all were designed to show what’s possible in their town. Station 1: What I Appreciate… They wrote down what they appreciated about Sunbury on 60 cards that broke down their town into small aspects (safety, education, street lights, events, senior life, transportation, etc). Station 2: What I Hope to See… They added their ideas through post it notes and mini lego structures that they placed on a giant map print out of their downtown. Station 3: What We Can Co-create… They placed stickers on a mosaic to reveal an image that symbolized their future. Each sticker was a photo that neighbors had previously taken highlighting all of the aspects of their town they most love - it included people, businesses, places, events, and historic photos. After they completed each station, they were invited to share their information in a raffle to win gift cards to local businesses. On the raffle ticket, we invited them to share how they’d like to further participate in downtown revitalization efforts. It was such a fun event and we had an amazing turn-out, far more than the organizing team had hoped for. I love seeing communities come together in ways like this and how simple events can inspire a multitude of other ways they could creatively engage their community. Big thanks to the team for inviting me in to help guide the process alongside you all. #community #facilitation #placemaking #downtownrevitalization

New Years trivia from your friends at Pruitt Place Buckhead!! Impress your friends with your New Year’s Day knowledge. Drop by and see the progress we are making with our renovations. We are a wonderful community filled with vibrant activities, excellent dining and the best caregivers anywhere. We have New Years specials going on right now. New residents are moving in getting ready for 2025. Happy New Year!! Call us for more details at 404-846-8335.?????? Question: What is the address of the Waterford Crystal Times Square New Year's Eve Ball? Answer: One Times Square Question: How tall are the numerals on the Waterford Crystal Times Square New Year's Eve Ball? Answer: 7 feet Question: How much does the sparkling Waterford Crystal Times Square New Year's Eve Ball weigh? Answer: About six tons (12,000 pounds)

In Metro Melbourne we raced to create outdoor spaces and community hubs to respond to the isolation of COVID and the negative impacts on businesses. This fueled a commitment to Placemaking as a way of facilitating a people-led movement for community renewal. This article from the Social Life Project not only describes the impact of Placemaking as a response to COVID, but also the threat that these new community hubs are under in NYC. Worth a read for the "before and after photos alone"! I know a lot of cafes and restaurants are doing it tough, and they probably have much higher overheads that the local street food van or shed. The challenge is how to maintain the new people-focused footpaths and outdoor areas AND provide fair regulations for traditional and predominantly indoor businesses. With good planning, more vibrant and activated streets should provide an economic flow-on for established businesses. If it doesn't, the answer is not to close down the new street activity, but to ask how better to support traditional hospitality businesses. #placemaking #community #urbanrenewal

Imagine a city that embraces its waterfront, where every glance offers a glimpse of the beauty of the natural world. This is the essence of critical urban design principles in action. Facing the waterfront isn't just about aesthetics—it's about fostering a connection with nature and maximizing the potential of urban spaces. When cities prioritize waterfront access and design, they create vibrant hubs for community interaction, recreation, and relaxation. By integrating green spaces, promenades, and public amenities along the waterfront, cities can transform previously neglected areas into dynamic destinations that celebrate the beauty of the natural world. This not only enhances the quality of life for residents but also attracts visitors, boosts local economies, and fosters a sense of pride in the city's identity.

Exciting news from San Jose as the city welcomes the Off the Grid Food Market, a fantastic initiative that's redefining the local social scene! This weekly event marries the allure of food trucks, live music, and community spirit into one vibrant gathering, thanks to a unique partnership with Gordon Biersch's Night Market. It's not just about indulging in a variety of cuisines; this market is a powerful engine for social interaction, economic revitalization, and cultural enrichment, providing a platform for small businesses and local artists to shine. As residents like Sergio Medina find a pet-friendly space to enjoy the diversity and Quentin Perry highlights the importance of supporting local businesses, it's clear this market is more than just a place to eat—it's a community hub fostering connections and celebrating San Jose's dynamic culture. With the support of Mayor Matt Mahan and initiatives like the Downtown Block Party series, San Jose is setting a vibrant example of how community engagement and innovative partnerships can create lively urban spaces that bolster economic recovery and enhance the social fabric. #SanJoseSocialScene #CommunityEngagement #LocalBusinessSupport #CulturalRichness #EconomicRevitalization https://ayr.app/l/MHSs

???Tri-Cities Local Playbook: Because Life’s Too Short! Here’s the deal: small businesses are the backbone of any thriving community. And if you’re in the Tri-Cities, you’re sitting on a goldmine of local gems waiting to be discovered. Supporting them isn’t just feel-good—it’s an investment in your own backyard. So here’s my challenge: level up your local game. ? Have a dinner to remember at @perch.richland Perch Cantina—because great food and amazing atmosphere is non-negotiable. ? Test your palate with the seasonal flavor at @cafeconartetc Cafe Con Arte. Make it a monthly ritual. ? Expand your horizons (literally) at @cbcollege CBC’s Planetarium. Go for 3 shows, minimum. ? Hit the trail at @cityofrichland Howard Amon Park once a month and remind yourself why outdoor spaces are priceless. ? Recharge in style with a staycation at @lodgeatcolumbiapoint The Lodge at Columbia Point—because even hustlers need downtime. ? Join a community at @club_509_pickleball Club 509 Pickleball Club. It’s not just exercise; it’s training your skills! ? Pizza crawl: Taste-test every local spot. Find your #1 and tell everyone about it. We all talk about shopping small and supporting local—but the real question is: are you doing it? These businesses are here because someone took a chance on a dream. Let’s show up for them and make this community even stronger. So…what’s on your local to-do list? Drop it below. Yours Truly, ??Edgardo Quiroz ?? REALTOR ??509-350-2355 ??hablo espa?ol #relocatingtotricitieswa #relocating #funthingstodoinwashingtonstsate #washingtonstate #smallbusinesssupport

Q: How old do I have to be to consider senior living? A: It depends! There are several different types of beautiful communities, ranging from almost completely independent to assisted. They cover all levels of amenity preferences and care needs. Our wonderful clients range from the mid 60's up through the 100's! Here's an explanation on some of the main types: https://lnkd.in/gjueDCDX #seniorlove #seniorcommunity #assistedliving #independentliving

???Tri-Cities Local Playbook: Because Life’s Too Short! Here’s the deal: small businesses are the backbone of any thriving community. And if you’re in the Tri-Cities, you’re sitting on a goldmine of local gems waiting to be discovered. Supporting them isn’t just feel-good—it’s an investment in your own backyard. So here’s my challenge: level up your local game. ? Have a dinner to remember at @perch.richland Perch Cantina—because great food and amazing atmosphere is non-negotiable. ? Test your palate with the seasonal flavor at @cafeconartetc Cafe Con Arte. Make it a monthly ritual. ? Expand your horizons (literally) at @cbcollege CBC’s Planetarium. Go for 3 shows, minimum. ? Hit the trail at @cityofrichland Howard Amon Park once a month and remind yourself why outdoor spaces are priceless. ? Recharge in style with a staycation at @lodgeatcolumbiapoint The Lodge at Columbia Point—because even hustlers need downtime. ? Join a community at @club_509_pickleball Club 509 Pickleball Club. It’s not just exercise; it’s training your skills! ? Pizza crawl: Taste-test every local spot. Find your #1 and tell everyone about it. We all talk about shopping small and supporting local—but the real question is: are you doing it? These businesses are here because someone took a chance on a dream. Let’s show up for them and make this community even stronger. So…what’s on your local to-do list? Drop it below. Yours Truly, ??Edgardo Quiroz ?? REALTOR ??509-350-2355 ??hablo espa?ol #relocatingtotricitieswa #relocating #funthingstodoinwashingtonstsate #washingtonstate #smallbusinesssupport

As we get ready to ring in the New Year, let’s take a moment to celebrate the rich traditions that make Southern hospitality shine during this time of year! ?? Black-Eyed Peas & Collard Greens – In the South, New Year's Day isn’t complete without a plate of black-eyed peas (for luck) and collard greens (for prosperity). It's a comforting reminder that success and well-being are best shared around the table. ?? Hoppin’ John & Cornbread – This hearty dish is a staple, representing hope and wealth. And let’s be honest—there’s nothing like the warm, welcoming smell of cornbread fresh out of the oven! ?? Open-Door Celebrations – Southern homes are known for open-door policies, especially during the holidays. Neighbors and friends stop by for a quick bite, reinforcing the sense of community that defines Southern living. ?? Fireworks & Front Porch Gatherings – What’s more Southern than watching fireworks from a rocking chair on the front porch? It’s all about slowing down, reflecting, and sharing stories with loved ones. As we head into 2025, let’s carry forward the heart of Southern hospitality—welcoming others, sharing meals, and cherishing community. Here’s to a year filled with joy, success, and meaningful connections! #SouthernHospitality #NewYearsTraditions #CommunityAndCulture #HospitalityIndustry #NewYearVibes