Blog & Insights

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A Turning Point in Public Health: San Francisco Confronts the Ultraprocessed Food Industry Community

A Turning Point in Public Health: San Francisco Confronts the Ultraprocessed Food Industry

San Francisco just made history by filing the first-ever lawsuit against ultraprocessed food giants — the same companies that dominate 70% of America’s grocery shelves and drive skyrocketing rates of diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and mental health struggles. This is a tobacco-style moment for food. Cities, families, and taxpayers have paid the price for decades, and now someone is finally holding these corporations accountable. Philadelphia and other cities facing similar health crises must pay attention. This lawsuit is just the beginning of a nationwide reckoning.

Cultivate Small Business Goes National Community

Cultivate Small Business Goes National

This blog explores the rise of Cultivate Small Business from a local Philadelphia initiative into a nationwide program supporting early stage food entrepreneurs. It highlights the leadership that shaped the program, the impact it has had on emerging founders, and the significance of its expansion across all fifty states. The piece outlines how coordinated support, mentorship, and access to resources can transform food businesses and strengthen communities throughout the country.

How Five Years of JUST Strategies Leadership Are Reshaping the Future of Philadelphia Through Real Community Driven Impact Community

How Five Years of JUST Strategies Leadership Are Reshaping the Future of Philadelphia Through Real Community Driven Impact

JUST Strategies has spent five years proving that real community centered leadership can reshape Philadelphia. Harry Hayman highlights their impact, calling attention to the work of Dwyane Wharton and a team that turns equity, accountability, and systems change into action rather than talk. Their anniversary marks not just a milestone but a blueprint for the future of civic transformation in Philadelphia and beyond.

Philadelphia, Local Media, and Why The Citizen Matters Community

Philadelphia, Local Media, and Why The Citizen Matters

Philadelphia needs media that doesn’t just report problems, but digs deep, asks the hard questions, and highlights solutions. The Philadelphia Citizen is stepping up, and their recent purchase of Philadelphia Magazine is a game-changer for local journalism. This blog explores why their fearless, neighborhood-focused reporting matters for the city, its communities, and everyone working to make Philadelphia better.

How a Bold New Conversation Between Harry Hayman and Plant ARC Could Reshape the Future of Food Systems in Philadelphia and Beyond Community

How a Bold New Conversation Between Harry Hayman and Plant ARC Could Reshape the Future of Food Systems in Philadelphia and Beyond

Harry Hayman explores an exciting new conversation with Plant ARC at the University of Pennsylvania, a research powerhouse focused on plant resilience, adaptability, and smarter food systems. This emerging collaboration brings together cutting edge science and community centered action to advance stronger local agriculture and a more resilient food future for Philadelphia.

A Masterclass in Leadership and Legacy: Solomon Jones and the Power of ManUpPHL Community

A Masterclass in Leadership and Legacy: Solomon Jones and the Power of ManUpPHL

Solomon Jones didn’t just speak—he ignited a room, delivering a masterclass in leadership, responsibility, and community. Through ManUpPHL, he and his team are shaping the next generation of young men in Philadelphia, showing what it looks like when a city refuses to give up on its sons. This is more than a speech—it’s a call to action for anyone who cares about stronger families, safer neighborhoods, and a future worth fighting for.

Broad Street Love Where Compassion Isn’t Just Talk It’s Action Community

Broad Street Love Where Compassion Isn’t Just Talk It’s Action

Broad Street Love in Philadelphia is more than a building it is a hub of organized compassion where community comes together with dignity care and respect The Open House plus Clothing and Hygiene Drive showed what happens when people show up fully committed to helping their neighbors Leaders volunteers and neighbors alike created a space where support meets humanity and everyone leaves reminded why this work matters

When a Burger Becomes Lethal: The Silent Danger Lurking in Your Food Hospitality

When a Burger Becomes Lethal: The Silent Danger Lurking in Your Food

This blog explores the hidden dangers lurking in our everyday food through the story of a New Jersey man whose life was taken by Alpha-gal syndrome, a tick-related allergy to red meat he never knew he had. It delves into the growing risks of ticks, the rise of food allergies, and the lack of transparency in our industrial food system. Written in a deeply personal yet informative style, it calls for better food education, labeling, and awareness, urging readers to understand what they eat, stay curious, and take control of their health. It is a wake-up call to the hidden threats on our plates and the urgent need for a food system built around safety, knowledge, and informed choice.

Shadow Cities at the Annenberg Center Becomes a Full Immersion Journey Into Rhythm Memory Community and Pure Creative Power Arts & Culture

Shadow Cities at the Annenberg Center Becomes a Full Immersion Journey Into Rhythm Memory Community and Pure Creative Power

Shadow Cities at the Annenberg Center brought together Ephrat Asherie Dance and Arturo O Farrill for a night that felt far bigger than a performance. The dancers carved through the air with movement that carried memory and urgency, while Arturo summoned entire worlds from the piano with a sound that felt like invocation. The result was a living city made from rhythm, sweat, spirit, and imagination. It became a full immersion experience that showed exactly what happens when artists are given room to create and when leaders like Christopher and Penn Arts push culture forward. The audience left with the sense that they had witnessed something rare and essential, a reminder that the arts in Philadelphia remain powerful, alive, and absolutely necessary.

The Source of Self Regard Exhibition Becomes a Transformative Moment for Philadelphia and for Harry Hayman’s Ongoing Creative Journey Community

The Source of Self Regard Exhibition Becomes a Transformative Moment for Philadelphia and for Harry Hayman’s Ongoing Creative Journey

Harry Hayman reflects on The Source of Self Regard exhibition at InLiquid Gallery, a powerful and deeply moving show curated by Tayyib Smith. The exhibition brings together six remarkable Philadelphia connected artists whose work explores the interior world of the Black self with honesty, beauty, and emotional depth. Harry describes how the space feels alive, how each piece carries ideas of belonging, imagination, resistance, and love, and how the show becomes more than an art display. It becomes an experience that lingers. He highlights the vision of the curators and the importance of this exhibition for anyone who cares about culture and creativity in Philadelphia.

Buying Local Becomes a Path to Healing for Philadelphia Community

Buying Local Becomes a Path to Healing for Philadelphia

Buying local is not a trend. It is survival for a city that wants to grow stronger. When Philly residents choose local produce, local farms, and local markets, they keep money circulating inside the community and help build a healthy food system for everyone. Every tomato, every mushroom, every head of garlic grown in our region strengthens families and supports jobs. Philly thrives when Philly supports Philly. #BuyLocal #FeedLocal #PhillyFood #CommunityFirst

Speaker Joanna McClinton Delivers a Powerful Vision for Community Strength at SouthSide Events and Catering Community

Speaker Joanna McClinton Delivers a Powerful Vision for Community Strength at SouthSide Events and Catering

A huge thank you to Speaker Joanna McClinton for her inspiring remarks at SouthSide Events and Catering. Hearing her speak with clarity purpose and heart was a genuine honor. She champions economic investment justice reform youth opportunity and a stronger democracy for all. Our conversation about PA Feeds PA confirmed how aligned her values are with community driven solutions that lift people up. Grateful for her leadership and looking forward to what comes next. #Leadership #Pennsylvania #PAFeedsPA #CommunityFirst

Celebrating 20 Years Of Bravery, Beauty, And BalletX In Philadelphia Arts & Culture

Celebrating 20 Years Of Bravery, Beauty, And BalletX In Philadelphia

Philadelphia’s BalletX celebrated 20 years of innovation, artistry, and inspiration in contemporary dance with a stunning retrospective honoring the company’s legacy and its visionary founder, Christine Cox. From breathtaking performances to a global influence rooted in the Philly community, the celebration highlighted the courage, creativity, and dedication that make BalletX a leader in the performing arts. Harry Hayman reflects on the evening, the company’s impact, and the importance of supporting world-class dance that continues to inspire and unite audiences.

An Unforgettable Night Of Soul And Groove At SOUTH With Jessy Kyle Live Jazz

An Unforgettable Night Of Soul And Groove At SOUTH With Jessy Kyle Live

Experience the magic of live music in Philadelphia through Jessy Kyle’s unforgettable performance at SOUTH Restaurant & Jazz Club. Joined by a phenomenal band, Jessy delivered two powerful sets full of soul, groove, and energy that had the audience on their feet. Harry Hayman reflects on the night, celebrating the passion, talent, and community spirit that make Philly’s live music scene one of a kind. This evening was a testament to the city’s vibrant music culture and the unforgettable memories that only live performances can create.

Philly Creativity Shines Bright At Bespoke Matter Exhibition Hosted By InLiquid Community

Philly Creativity Shines Bright At Bespoke Matter Exhibition Hosted By InLiquid

Discover Philadelphia’s thriving creative scene through the opening of “Bespoke Matter” at Park Towne Place, curated by InLiquid. Featuring five talented local artists — Sophie Glenn, Leslie A. Grossman, Elizabeth Hamilton, Leah Kaplan, and Lisa Marie Patzer — the exhibition redefines decorative arts with bold, innovative, and unapologetically Philly works. From reimagined furniture and wallpaper to porcelain and tapestry, the show celebrates creativity, craft, and community. Harry Hayman reflects on the night, the energy, and the incredible food by Avana that elevated the experience, highlighting why supporting local artists and events is essential to Philadelphia’s cultural heartbeat.

A Night To Remember Celebrating Paul And Laurie Surrounded By Friends And Joy Personal Life

A Night To Remember Celebrating Paul And Laurie Surrounded By Friends And Joy

Join Harry Hayman as he reflects on the unforgettable wedding celebration of his dear friends Paul and Laurie at Terrain in Philadelphia. Filled with laughter, heartfelt speeches, dancing, and moments of pure joy, the evening was a true testament to love, friendship, and community. From reconnecting with old friends to creating new memories, this blog captures the energy, warmth, and excitement of a night that will be remembered by all who attended. Celebrate the love, the laughter, and the lifelong bonds formed at this spectacular event.

Growing Futures: How Fox Chase Farm and Dr. Mandy Manna Are Transforming Urban Agricultural Education Community

Growing Futures: How Fox Chase Farm and Dr. Mandy Manna Are Transforming Urban Agricultural Education

Fox Chase Farm in Northeast Philadelphia is redefining urban education through hands-on agricultural learning. Led by Dr. Mandy Manna and supported by Harry Hayman, the farm’s innovative programs—including the Controlled Environment Agriculture initiative with the School District of Philadelphia—are preparing students for a sustainable future. This blog explores how their collaboration is cultivating knowledge, community, and leadership across the city.

Gather Food Hall at the Bulletin Building in Philadelphia Marks a New Era of Flavor Community Community

Gather Food Hall at the Bulletin Building in Philadelphia Marks a New Era of Flavor Community

Gather Food Hall in Philadelphia’s historic Bulletin Building is more than a food hall. Curated by local chefs and designed with purpose, it blends bold flavors, community connection, and social impact. Each meal supports students, empowers entrepreneurs, and celebrates culture. Harry Hayman explores the story behind the hall, its vendors, and why this opening is a landmark moment for Philly dining and community.

CHANGES at Penn: Philly on the Big Screen Community

CHANGES at Penn: Philly on the Big Screen

CHANGES premiered at Penn as more than a film—it became a platform for Frankford voices and a call to action for Philadelphia. Hosted by the Penn Center for Public Health, the Penn MPH Program, the Environmental Innovations Initiative, and the Annenberg School, the screening highlighted how environmental health, community voice, and public policy intersect. This blog reflects on the power of film as a tool for change, where neighborhood stories drive real outcomes and Philly once again proves how grit turns into movement.

Last Chance: “Katrina & A Source of Self-Regard” at InLiquid Community

Last Chance: “Katrina & A Source of Self-Regard” at InLiquid

Harry Hayman reflects on “Katrina & A Source of Self-Regard” at InLiquid, a powerful exhibition where history is embedded in the art itself. From portraits of cultural icons like Leah Chase to prints made with traces of Katrina mud, this show is thunder and tenderness in one frame. As the exhibit closes, Hayman calls on Philadelphia to support InLiquid, its artists, and the living conversations that keep our city’s creative pulse strong.

Savoring Spring Flavors at The Garden Restaurant at the Barnes Community

Savoring Spring Flavors at The Garden Restaurant at the Barnes

An evening at The Garden Restaurant at the Barnes was a perfect blend of art and dining. With thoughtful service, a calming atmosphere, and dishes that celebrated the season, the experience felt both refined and welcoming. Highlights included the chilled spring pea and avocado soup and a citrus tart paired with black cherry gelato, both memorable in flavor and presentation. This blog captures the setting, the food, and the reasons why this restaurant is a true Philadelphia gem worth revisiting.