The 2017 PANTONE color of the year is…Greenery! The color Greenery is full of pop and life and has a vibrant energy, unlike many other greens, which are soft and serene. This yellow-green shade symbolizes the great outdoors and evokes a feeling of springtime when nature’s foliage revives.

The EYA Foundation is pleased to announce the opening of its Spring 2017 grant-making cycle. Twice a year, the foundation awards grants to non-profit organizations and private foundations working in the Washington metro area. Grant making priorities include contributions, donations, and sponsorships for programs focusing on disadvantaged populations, job training and education, beautification of blighted neighborhoods, and the rehabilitation of support facilities for the underserved.

The Maryland Building Industry Association (MBIA) Land Development Council awards program honors leaders in the industry and celebrates creative development projects that are sensitive to the environment and promote best building practices. And for 2016, EYA received two top awards.

EYA has long been a proponent of life within walking distance, in which homeowners enjoy easy access to transportation, recreation, shopping, and dining. And increasingly, new homeowners are seeking walkable lifestyles even in the suburbs.

EYA is partnering with the Washington Area Bicyclist Association (WABA) as the title sponsor of The Cider Ride. The Cider Ride is WABA's fall community bike ride, fundraiser, and one of the most popular annual events for the region's bike community. Hundreds of riders are expected to participate in this year’s ride on Saturday, November 5th. The ride starts and finishes in DC’s Edgewood neighborhood and winds its way from Northeast DC to Maryland’s Anacostia Tributary Trails through Hyattsville and College Park. Participants may choose from the 9-mile family-friendly trail to more challenging 23 or 47-mile routes. Cider and snack stops are provided along the way. After the ride, join EYA at the post-ride celebration taking place at the charming Dew Drop Inn.

CNBC’s Nightly Business Report recently featured EYA’s president, Bob Youngentob, speaking about increased sales and the impact on homebuilder confidence. Homebuilder confidence has risen to the highest level in almost a year, as reported by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Housing Market Index. What is driving the surge? The report noted that job creation and tight supply are fueling demand. Mr. Youngentob also added that as interest rates have remained low for quite some time, buyers fear that rates will rise, which has encouraged activity.