A Special Kind of Signing Day

In almost every high school across the country, athletes sign their national letter of intent to celebrate a scholarship with a particular school. It’s usually a big deal. Schools set up a table with the college colors. Athletes wear a shirt or hat to indicate where he/she will attend college. Family and friends attend the event to support the athlete. For big-time athletes, members of the media cover the press conference. The athlete then signs the letter to make it official.

However, at Henrico County Schools in Virginia, they hold a different kind of signing day. Students who have elected not to go to college, and instead have accepted vocational and tech jobs, are celebrated. Just like the athletes, these students wear the hats of the business they will soon be working for. Family and friends applaud this decision. The business gets recognition and the athletes smile as they sign their employment contract.

Joe’s Perspective: These athletes deserve a special celebration of their accomplishments. Good for them. They undoubtedly worked hard for a long time to receive this scholarship. The same can be said for these students who have chosen a path in the trades. They will become electricians, plumbers, welders… These students will make good money in these professions and they will begin making that money right away. It is a solid life decision. Good for them. And, in my opinion, they deserve just as much recognition for their accomplishments.

Your Turn: What do you think of these students who are signing employment and apprenticeship letters with employers?

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Expressing Gratitude To Parents

Kansas City Royals pitcher Brady Singer used part of his $4.25 signing bonus to give his parents a special Christmas gift. In an effort to thank his parents for all of they did for him, he paid off the mortgage on their house and all other debt they had. Brady also wrote a beautiful letter to his parents, thanking them for their time and money over the years. I’m sure his parents sacrificed mightily to help Brady reach his dreams. Imagine the cost for all of those travel teams, tournaments, and private lessons. Imagine the cumulative time off from work that each parent had to take.

Joe’s Perspective: 99.9% of you high school athletes will never make it to the professional level in your chosen sport. Most of you will not make millions in your professional career, especially as a signing bonus. However, all of you can write a letter to your parents to thank them for what they have done and are currently doing for you. Think of all the car rides… think of all the hours spent in a seat to watch you play… think of all the money they paid for you to play… Maybe the hotels for tournaments… Maybe the summer camps… Maybe the time they had to take off from work so you could compete in your chosen sport(s).

My assignment for all of you is to write a letter to your parents, thanking them for everything they did for you. Tell them how much you appreciate their sacrifices. Write this letter from the heart. If you have the courage, read it directly to them. My guess is they (mom, dad or whomever) will really appreciate this act of kindness. Don’t overestimate the power of saying thank you or of receiving a thank you.

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How Technology Is Being Integrated Into Mixed-Use Developments

In an era of rapid technological advancement, mixed-use developments embrace innovation to enhance the living experience and create more innovative, connected communities. Technology is pivotal in reshaping the landscape of mixed-use developments, from intelligent buildings and digital amenities to data-driven management systems. Here’s how developers integrate technology to create more efficient, sustainable, and dynamic environments.

Smart Buildings and Infrastructure: One of the most visible manifestations of technology in mixed-use developments is the emergence of intelligent buildings equipped with IoT (Internet of Things) devices and sensors. These interconnected systems monitor and optimize energy usage, lighting, temperature, and security, creating more efficient and sustainable buildings. Smart infrastructure also extends to amenities such as parking garages, waste management systems, and transportation hubs, enhancing convenience and reducing environmental impact.

Digital Amenities and Services: Mixed-use developments are leveraging technology to offer a wide array of digital amenities and services tailored to the needs of residents and tenants. From mobile apps for booking amenities and managing maintenance requests to virtual concierge services and community platforms, these digital solutions enhance convenience, communication, and connectivity within the development. Additionally, amenities such as smart parcel lockers, shared mobility services, and in-home automation systems further streamline daily life for residents.

Data Analytics and Management Systems: Data-driven decision-making is becoming increasingly prevalent in mixed-use developments, thanks to the implementation of sophisticated analytics and management systems. By collecting and analyzing data on building performance, occupancy rates, traffic patterns, and tenant preferences, developers can optimize operations, improve efficiency, and deliver personalized experiences. These insights also inform future planning and design decisions, ensuring that mixed-use developments evolve to meet the changing needs of residents and tenants.

Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality Experiences: Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies transform how residents and tenants interact with mixed-use developments, offering immersive experiences that blend the physical and digital realms. Developers utilize AR and VR to showcase properties, visualize design concepts, and provide a virtual tour of amenities and spaces. These technologies facilitate pre-leasing and sales efforts, enhancing engagement and excitement among prospective tenants and buyers.

Sustainability and Resilience Solutions: Technology is driving advancements in sustainability and resilience within mixed-use developments, helping to mitigate environmental impact and enhance resilience to climate change. From energy-efficient building systems and renewable energy sources to water conservation measures and green infrastructure, developers are leveraging technology to create more sustainable and resilient communities. Additionally, predictive analytics and monitoring systems enable proactive maintenance and resource management, reducing environmental footprints and operating costs.

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Innovative Uses for Mixed-Use Spaces: Beyond Retail and Residential

Mixed-use spaces have long been recognized for their ability to blend residential, commercial, and recreational elements into vibrant communities. However, as urban landscapes evolve and demand for multifunctional environments grows, developers are exploring innovative uses beyond traditional retail and residential offerings. From creative workspaces to experiential hubs, these unconventional uses are reshaping the concept of mixed-use development and enriching the urban experience.

Co-working and Collaborative Spaces: With the rise of remote work and entrepreneurship, demand for flexible workspaces has surged. Mixed-use developments seize this opportunity by integrating co-working facilities and collaborative spaces into their designs. These shared work environments provide tenants access to professional amenities such as high-speed internet and meeting rooms and foster community and collaboration. These spaces stimulate innovation and creativity by bringing together individuals from diverse industries and backgrounds while offering an alternative to traditional office settings.

Cultural and Arts Hubs: Mixed-use developments have the potential to serve as dynamic cultural and arts hubs, enriching communities with galleries, theaters, and performance spaces. Developers can create environments celebrating creativity and expression by incorporating art studios, exhibition venues, and live-work lofts. These cultural hubs not only provide residents with opportunities to engage with local artists and performers but also attract visitors from neighboring areas, contributing to the cultural vibrancy of the surrounding community.

Wellness and Healthcare Facilities: As the importance of health and wellness continues to grow, mixed-use developments are incorporating amenities such as fitness centers, spas, and healthcare clinics into their offerings. By providing convenient access to wellness services, developers can promote holistic well-being and enhance the quality of life for residents. Additionally, integrating healthcare facilities such as urgent care centers and medical offices ensures that residents can access essential healthcare services within walking distance, fostering a healthy and sustainable living environment.

Educational and Learning Spaces: Mixed-use developments have the potential to serve as lifelong learning centers, offering educational opportunities for individuals of all ages. Developers can create environments that promote intellectual growth and lifelong learning by incorporating libraries, learning centers, and academic institutions into their designs. These educational spaces provide residents access to resources and programming, facilitating intergenerational connections and community engagement.

Urban Agriculture and Food Production: In response to growing interest in sustainability and local food production, mixed-use developments integrate urban agriculture initiatives such as rooftop gardens, community farms, and hydroponic systems. Developers can promote food security, environmental sustainability, and community resilience by incorporating food production into their designs. Additionally, these initiatives provide residents with opportunities to connect with nature, learn about food production, and participate in urban agriculture activities.

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Seasonal Amenities That Attract Tenants to Mixed-Use Spaces

Mixed-use spaces have revolutionized urban living, offering a harmonious blend of residential, commercial, and recreational amenities. One key factor in attracting and retaining tenants is the provision of seasonal amenities. By tailoring offerings to align with the changing seasons, developers can create dynamic environments that cater to diverse preferences and enhance the overall appeal of mixed-use spaces.

Rooftop Retreats: During the warmer months, rooftop terraces and gardens emerge as coveted amenities, providing tenants with a serene escape from the bustle of city life. These elevated spaces offer panoramic views, alfresco dining opportunities, and outdoor lounges perfect for socializing or simply unwinding under the sun. To maximize usability throughout the year, developers can incorporate features like retractable canopies, heaters, and fire pits, ensuring that rooftop retreats remain inviting even as temperatures cool.

Cozy Indoor Spaces: As the weather turns colder, tenants seek refuge in cozy indoor spaces that evoke warmth and comfort. Mixed-use developments can capitalize on this desire by inviting communal areas like fireplace lounges, reading nooks, and game rooms. Additionally, indoor pools, spas, and fitness centers provide year-round recreation and wellness opportunities, regardless of external weather conditions.

Seasonal Programming: From seasonal events and workshops to holiday-themed activities, curated programming adds excitement and engagement to mixed-use spaces. In the spring and summer, outdoor yoga classes, farmers’ markets, and movie nights under the stars can draw tenants and visitors alike. Similarly, winter months present opportunities for festive gatherings, ice skating rinks, and seasonal pop-up shops, creating a sense of community and fostering connections among residents.

On-Demand Services: In today’s fast-paced world, convenience is paramount for tenants seeking a hassle-free living experience. Offering on-demand services tailored to seasonal needs can significantly enhance the appeal of mixed-use spaces. For example, providing bicycle rentals, outdoor maintenance services, and parcel delivery lockers for online shopping during the summer can streamline residents’ daily lives. Similarly, in the winter, amenities such as snow removal services, package concierge, and in-home grocery delivery can alleviate stress and enhance comfort during inclement weather.

Sustainable Features: Increasingly, tenants prioritize sustainability when choosing where to live. Mixed-use developments can attract environmentally-conscious tenants by incorporating sustainable features that align with seasonal principles. This may include initiatives such as green roofs, solar panels, energy-efficient appliances, and community gardens. By promoting eco-friendly practices year-round, developers appeal to environmentally-conscious tenants and contribute to the community’s overall health and resilience.

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How Mixed-Use Developments Can Be Adapted to Different Seasons

Mixed-use developments have become a hallmark of modern urban planning, seamlessly blending residential, commercial, and recreational spaces. These multifaceted environments cater to diverse needs, fostering vibrant communities and economic growth. However, to truly optimize their potential, developers and designers must consider how these spaces can adapt to the changing seasons. By embracing seasonal variations, mixed-use developments can enhance their appeal and functionality throughout the year.

Embracing Outdoor Spaces: In warmer seasons, outdoor areas within mixed-use developments can become bustling hubs of activity. From outdoor seating at cafes to communal gathering spaces, these areas play a vital role in fostering social interaction and enhancing the overall experience. To adapt to different seasons, developers can incorporate retractable awnings, heaters, and fire pits, ensuring that outdoor spaces remain inviting even during cooler months. Additionally, landscaping can be tailored to showcase seasonal blooms and foliage, adding visual interest and creating a dynamic environment.

Flexible Programming: Successful mixed-use developments offer diverse amenities and services that cater to the needs and preferences of residents and visitors alike. By implementing flexible programming, developers can adjust offerings to align with seasonal trends and activities. For example, outdoor yoga classes and farmers’ markets may thrive during the summer, while indoor events like cooking workshops and art exhibitions can be featured during the colder months. By staying attuned to seasonal demands, mixed-use developments can maintain relevance and attract a steady flow of patrons year-round.

Weather-Resilient Design: Mixed-use developments should prioritize weather-resilient design elements to ensure comfort and usability regardless of the season. This may include features such as well-insulated buildings, efficient heating and cooling systems, and strategic placement of windows to maximize natural light while minimizing heat loss or gain. Additionally, incorporating covered walkways and indoor connections between buildings can offer protection from inclement weather, allowing seamless navigation throughout the development, even during snow or rain.

Seasonal Festivities and Events: Capitalizing on seasonal festivities and events presents an excellent opportunity to enhance the allure of mixed-use developments. Whether hosting holiday markets, seasonal concerts, or themed festivals, these events can attract visitors and foster a sense of community engagement. By integrating seasonal programming into the development fabric, stakeholders can cultivate a lively atmosphere and forge lasting connections with residents and visitors.

Sustainability and Green Spaces: Emphasizing sustainability and green spaces within mixed-use developments benefits the environment and enhances the seasonal appeal of these spaces. Incorporating rooftop gardens, community parks, and green infrastructure beautifies the environment and provides outdoor recreation and relaxation opportunities. Moreover, sustainable practices such as rainwater harvesting and solar energy utilization can help reduce environmental impact while ensuring resilience against seasonal fluctuations.

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Choose Your Friends Carefully

I always remember my mother telling me to choose my friends wisely. If you befriend the wrong person who does the wrong thing at the wrong time, and you are with them, you too might get into trouble, even if it isn’t your fault. That’s life. Many a person is in prison because of just such a situation. It was always an important lesson to remember.

The lesson below is similar. It says that you need to pick your friends wisely, but for a different reason. He says that, “you are the average of the five people you spend the most amount of time with.” So, if you want to be goal-oriented and successful, hang out with people who are goal-oriented and successful. If you find yourself hanging out with a bunch of knuckleheads or class clowns or trouble-makers, you might eventually fall into those categories. Furthermore, he says that there are four types of friends:

Addition: people that will add to your life and make your life better.
Subtraction: when you are with these people, you are not the best version of you.
Multiplication: They make you the best version of yourself.
Division: People who are always dividing and making things hard.

In conclusion, you need to pick your friends wisely. How do you do that? You select the people in your life who bring out the best version of yourself and get rid of the people who bring drama and trouble to your life. If someone makes you feel bad about yourself, they are probably not the best person for you. If someone is distracting you from the life that you want for yourself, they are probably not good for you. Begin paying attention to this and choose the friends that bring out the best version of you. End of lesson.

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Weighing the Benefits and Negatives of NIL

Nick Saban is regarded as the best college football coach of all time. He had an amazing career, winning 7 national championships. This career came to an end a few months ago when he retired. He recently testified in front of the US Congress on the impacts of NIL (athletes being able to be paid for their name, image and likeness) at the collegiate level. The summary of Coach Saban’s testimony is that he retired from coaching because of NIL. He believes that NIL directly clashes with his intention to develop players over their collegiate career. He testified that incoming recruits and their parents are “only” interested in the money or package that the university can provide. Coach Saban no longer wanted to be a part of a system that prioritized the wrong things, so he retired.

Joe’s Perspective: The advantage of NIL is that players can receive a piece of the huge revenues that college athletics creates. In many ways this seems fair. However, at this point, it’s open season. There are basically no limitations. Does this hurt the competitive landscape of college sports? Does NIL interfere with the development of college athletes? Do the schools with huge financial resources get richer and the schools with less resources get poorer? Does NIL create inequities/jealousy on the team between a player who receives a million dollars and a player who receives nothing?

Your Turn: These are all great questions, all of which are above my pay grade. I’ll be interested to see how NIL progresses and is refined. I am also interested in how you, the younger generation thinks of this new NIL revolution. What do you think?

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Auburn Player Gets Ejected, Which Contributes to 1st Round Loss in NCAA Tournament

In the first round of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, Chad Baker-Mazara, an Auburn player, deliberately elbowed a player from Yale. Chad lost his cool. For his actions, the official assessed a Flagrant 2 Technical Foul and ejected Chad from the game. Auburn, the heavy favorite, lost that game to Yale. Here is the play.

Now, the part that caught my eye, was a subsequent interview with a coach from a team that was not playing. A reporter asked the head coach of Alabama what he and his players could learn from this incident. In essence, Coach Oats said, “We’re trying to win on the scoreboard. We are not trying to win a backyard brawl or a trash-talking contest. Anything that gives the opposing team an advantage, we don’t want it.” This is a great message for his team and it is a great message for you. So, take a minute to listen to the words of wisdom from Coach Oats below:

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Appreciating Greatness – Catlin Clark

Caitlin Clark is a phenomenon. She is a senior at the University of Iowa. This year she has broken too many records to list here. However, the big one is that she became the leading scorer in men’s and women’s college basketball history. She currently has 3,685 points. In her career, she has averaged 32.8 points per game. She also has more assists than anyone else this year, which tells you a lot about her game. She also has more three pointers this year than any other player. In short, she has a lot of great components to her game.

Joe’s Perspective: Before Magic Johnson and Larry Bird entered the NBA (1979), playoff games were aired on tape delay. The NBA was not that big of a deal. However, Magic and Larry brought excitement and pizzaz to the game. Game attendance and TV coverage soon followed. I believe Caitlin has done the same for women’s college basketball and soon, she will dramatically impact the WNBA. Caitlin is probably the second most known female in America (after Taylor Swift). She has brought women’s basketball into the mainstream. People who have never watched the women’s game are tuning in to see the show. Wherever she plays, the arenas are sold out, including the Big 10 tournament this weekend. The TV ratings for her games are off the charts. Caitlin has shifted the culture.

Before Tiger Woods joined the PGA Tour, the purses of each tournament were a fraction of what they are today. After he joined the tour, he made golf cool. The crowds at tournaments grew exponentially and TV revenue exploded. I predict Caitlin will do the same for the WNBA. Right now, the salaries are relatively low ($147,000) for WNBA players, especially compared to the average salary of an NBA player ($9.7 million). The discrepancy has everything to do with ticket sales, TV contracts and merchandise. I predict that “the Caitlin effect” will begin to close that gap in the upcoming years. Every female athlete will benefit from her stardom.

For now, we should all just appreciate her greatness. She will be playing in the NCAA tournament in the coming weeks. I don’t think her team will win it all, but it will be fun to watch Caitlin and Iowa try to win a national championship.

Your Turn: What are your thoughts about Caitlin Clark and her success this year?

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