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Stars and Stripes in Paradise

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City of West Palm Beach to host 35th Annual 4th on Flagler

WEST PALM BEACH, FL — The City of West Palm Beach will soon host its Annual 4th on Flagler Celebration with a festive “Stars and Stripes in Paradise” theme. The highly anticipated event will return for its 35th year as the largest waterfront Independence Day Celebration in South Florida. The event takes place from 6 – 10 p.m. along Flagler Drive (between Banyan Blvd. and Fern Street).

Fourth on Flagler, 2022. Photos by Scott Wiseman for the City of West Palm Beach.

“Our Annual 4th on Flagler celebration is rich with tradition,” said West Palm Beach Mayor Keith A. James. “From our Military Honor Ceremony to our impressive 18-minute fireworks display, the City of West Palm Beach’s Independence Day Celebration is one of the best in the Country. I hope everyone will plan to join and enjoy our beautiful waterfront and plentiful activities.”

The event features three stages of music, an annual Military Honor Ceremony, a kids’ entertainment zone (featuring inflatable games and bounce houses and make-and-take crafts and activities), roving entertainment sponsored by FPL (including stilt walkers, jugglers and magicians), food and refreshments for purchase and an 18-minute fireworks display by Pyrotecnico over the Intracoastal Waterway. Additionally, 4th on Flagler will be the start and end point for the annual Bill Bone 5K.

More than 50,000 people are expected to attend 4th on Flagler. People who prefer to celebrate at home can watch the fireworks display and a special show by tuning into WBPF 25 News from 9 – 9:30 p.m. The musical lineup is as follows:

  • NewDay USA Stage (main stage on Flagler Drive and North Clematis Street): 13th Army Band (Jazz, Salsa, Marching, Rock Combo, Brass & Woodwind Quintet)

The 13th Army Band is a renowned musical ensemble composed of dedicated and skilled Soldiers of the Florida National Guard. With a lineage dating back to 1930, the Band has had a rich history of providing unparalleled musical support and entertainment for military and civilian events.

  • Meyer Amphitheatre: DJ Infiesta and Co. will keep the party going in the kids’ entertainment zone

The kids’ entertainment zone will feature inflatable activities like bounce houses and games (wristbands will grant unlimited access for $5 per person). Additionally, volunteers will help kids and their families with various Independence Day crafts and make-and-take activities (no charge).

  • Informa Stage (at Post Park): CoverUp (Pop, Punk & Alternative)

South Florida-based CoverUp will perform upbeat songs from hard rock and punk to ’80s hair bands and everything in between. The band, led by singer Larry Demers, is known for its high-energy and interactive shows.

“’Stars and Stripes in Paradise’ is such a perfect theme for 4th on Flagler,” said Mary Pinak, community events manager for the City of West Palm Beach. “As soon as you arrive at the event, you will feel the festive and patriotic energy. Our Fourth of July celebration features a ton of family-friendly entertainment, delicious food and drinks for purchase, activities for the kids, a meaningful patriotic ceremony, and of course, one of the best fireworks shows in South Florida. It is truly the best event of the summer!”

Blankets and chairs are recommended. Parking is available in the City of West Palm Beach’s public parking garages for flat rates of $10 at the Banyan and Evernia garages and $5 at the City Center, Clematis and Sapodilla garages. Parking must be prepaid while entering the garage. The Banyan and Evernia garages are closest to the event.

4th on Flagler is produced by the City of West Palm Beach. 4th on Flagler sponsors to date include the West Palm Beach Community Redevelopment Agency, NewDay USA, Informa, Town of Palm Beach, Amazon, FPL, Discover The Palm Beaches, Bill Bone Bike Law, PDQ Restaurant, Jimmy John’s, Palm Beach Sheriff’s Office, Humana, SWA, WPB Magazine, WPBF 25 News, 97.9 WRMF, SUNNY 107.9, X 102.3, New Country 103.1, PARTY 96.3, Fox Sports 640 South Florida and News Talk 850 WFTL.

For more information about 4th on Flagler, visit wpb.org/events, call (561) 822-1515 (TTY: 800-955-8771), or follow the City of West Palm Beach on Facebook @CityofWPB and on Twitter and Instagram @westpalmbch.

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About the City of West Palm Beach
The City of West Palm Beach is a vibrant and dynamic City located on the Atlantic coast of Florida. With a rich history, a thriving arts and cultural scene, and a commitment to sustainability, the City of West Palm Beach is a great place to live, work, and play. As one of the three largest cities making up the South Florida region, and the central City of Palm Beach County, West Palm Beach is a vibrant, growing, waterfront City that offers the business advantages available in the region, combined with a more refined and relaxed environment for living and working. To learn more about the City of West Palm Beach, visit us on our official website, or follow us on our social media: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and/or Linked-in.

KAPOW NOODLE BAR CELEBRATES FATHER’S DAY WITH ICONIC TV DADS AND DELICIOUS OLD FASHIONEDS

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Raise a Glass to Ted Lasso, Homer Simpson, Peter Griffin, and Minato Namikaze Father’s Day Weekend

Ever wondered what kind of Old Fashioned your beloved TV dads would enjoy? Kapow Noodle Bar has the answer! They are serving up a flight of libations inspired by Ted Lasso, Homer Simpson, Peter Griffin and Minato Namikaze.

Fans of the wholesome Ted Lasso can put their pinkies up while sipping “The Only Way Ted Likes Tea” with Monkey Shoulder whiskey, Genmaicha tea syrup and Earl Gray bitters. Served with an English biscuit even Ted will enjoy this version of England’s “garbage water”. 

Homer Simpson once famously said, “Coffee is my only vice. Well, that and donuts. And beer. And…” Kapow took all of his favorites and crafted “My Only Vice,” an irresistible rum old fashioned made with Papa’s Pilar dark rum, maple syrup, Subculture Coffee and Dugan & Dame’s Morning Wood Coffee Bitters. Of course, no tribute to Homie would be complete without a doughnut garnish.

Remember when Peter Griffin visited Mexico and had to drink the well water to save Meg? That liquid turned out to be mezcal, and now you can experience the winning combination with “Shut Up, Meg.” This tantalizing creation boasts Montelobos Mezcal, Espolon Reposado, and orange bitters, providing a taste sensation worthy of the Family Guy dad.

Minato Namikaze, the courageous father from the Naruto anime series, made the ultimate sacrifice to protect his town and his newborn son, Naruto. “OYAJI,” a Japanese word roughly meaning “Old Man,” pays tribute to Minato with a blend of simple yet impactful ingredients – Toki whiskey, Kokuto sugar, and aromatic bitters.

As a little surprise, each cocktail comes with a single ice cube featuring the face of your favorite TV dad. It’s the perfect way to raise a toast to the fathers who have brought laughter and joy into our lives. 

Join the celebration at both Kapow Noodle Bar locations from June 16 to June 18 and cheers to all the amazing fathers out there!

TED LASSO – THE ONLY WAY TED LIKES TEA 

  • Monkey Shoulder Whiskey 
  • Genmaicha Tea Syrup 
  • Earl Gray Bitters
  • Lemon 
  • Served with an English biscuit

HOMER SIMPSON – MY ONLY VICE 

  • Papa’s Pilar Dark Rum 
  • Maple syrup 
  • Subculture Coffee 
  • Dugan & Dame Morning Wood (Barrel-Aged) Coffee Bitters 
  • Garnish with a skewered doughnut

PETER GRIFFIN – SHUT UP, MEG 

  • Espolon Reposado 
  • Montelobos Mezcal 
  • Stout Syrup 
  • Orange bitters

MINATO NAMIKAZE – OYAJI 

  • Toki Whiskey 
  • Kokuto Sugar 
  • Aromatic Bitters 

Spady Cultural Heritage Museum Awarded Two Grants for Programs that Support Community Wellness and Mental Health

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Palm Health Foundation and the Community Foundation of Palm Beach and Martin Counties support cross-cultural, collaborative programming that bring residents together

Delray Beach, Fla. – June 4, 2023 – A speaker talking about disparities in healthcare, a tour guide answering questions about ancestral contributions, a gathering of neighbors in a community space, and an interactive outlet for children to create art … Each of these programs represents a way for residents to connect, relate and center themselves in a rapidly changing society, which program organizers envision contributing to improved mental health.

Each of these programs is also an offering of the Spady Cultural Heritage Museum, which has recently received grants to support the continuation of these offerings to Palm Beach County residents.

Above:EPOCH Board members Stacey Copeland and Bill Whigham at A Delray Beach Family Affair, held at the Spady Museum, May 20, 2023. Photo by Ethan Dangerwing, 2023.

Palm Health Foundation

The Spady Cultural Heritage Museum received $25,000 from Palm Health Foundation for its operational and programmatic needs, promoting its mission of preserving and sharing cultural heritage, which supports mental health among certain demographics.

The Spady’s lecture series promotes community engagement and dialogue on topics pertaining to health, self-care and empowerment. Also with the youth, the museum teaches young women confidence and character and to use their voices and talents to make the world a better place.

“We’re pleased to support programming that addresses youth mental health and wellness in our communities,” said Palm Health Foundation President and CEO Patrick McNamara. “The Spady Museum creates spaces for meaningful community engagement to flourish.”

Palm Health Foundation is Palm Beach County’s community foundation for health. With the support of donors, the foundation builds strong community partnerships, advocates for its most vulnerable neighbors and inspires innovative solutions to lead change for better health now and for generations to come. The foundation supports health equity for Palm Beach County residents of all races, sexual orientations, incomes and backgrounds. Since 2001, the foundation has invested more than $91 million in Palm Beach County health. For more information about Palm Health Foundation, visit palmhealthfoundation.org or call (561) 833-6333.

Community Foundation of Palm Beach and Martin Counties

The Spady Museum alsoreceived a grant in the amount of $50,000 from the Community Foundation of Palm Beach and Martin Counties to support its operations and programming initiatives.

“The museum is thrilled and heartened by the tangible support it is receiving from two significant foundations that are focused on the needs of its community,” said Charlene Farrington, executive director of the Spady Museum. “Our leadership and staff will continue to create and offer programs and events that bring our residents together for dialogue, community-building, history lessons, art development and cultural education, in order to foster a more culturally sensitive, aware and accepting Palm Beach County.”

The Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties is a nonprofit organization that leads philanthropy locally. The foundation provides charitable expertise and vehicles to increase the investment options on behalf of individuals, family foundations, and corporations. Since 1972, the foundation has distributed over $200 million in grants and scholarships aimed at closing the area’s opportunity gaps. With its vast network of donors and nonprofit partners, the foundation supports initiatives that improve youth and education, economic opportunity, thriving communities, and crisis preparation and response. Learn more at https://yourcommunityfoundation.org.  

ABOUT THE SPADY CULTURAL HERITAGE MUSEUM:

Opened in 2001, the Spady Cultural Heritage Museum is the only cultural center of its kind in Palm Beach County. Located at 170 NW Fifth Avenue in Delray Beach, it is dedicated to showcasing the contributions of African-, Caribbean- and Bahamian-Americans to Florida and the U.S. Programs include exhibitions, museum tours, and community events. Hours: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., Tuesday-Saturday; Mondays by appointment. Closed Sundays. Admission: $20; Members are free. For more information, call 561-279-8883 or visit www.spadymuseum.com  

Garden Explorers Summer Camp

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Mounts Botanical Garden of Palm Beach County

Invites Nature Curious Youngsters 7 to 11 to

GARDEN EXPLORERS SUMMER CAMP

Three Week-Long Sessions, July 10-28

(West Palm Beach, FL – June 1, 2023) Friends of the Mounts Botanical Garden will be hosting three week-long programs next month for nature curious youngsters ages 7 to 11. Garden Explorers Summer Camp offers science-based fun and nature experiences, Monday through Friday, 9 am to 3 pm, July 10-14, July 17-21, and July 24-28.

“Eco-conscious and green-leaning kids can register for one, two, or all three weeklong camps because each one will offer something new and different,” promises Mounts Curator Director Rochelle Wolberg. “Activities will take place both outside and indoor, so campers will have access to a cool, dry space in the event of excessive heat or rain.”

During Mounts Year of the Orchid 2023, each of the three camp sessions will be limited to 20 participants and will offer a variety of fun and informative experiences, including:

  • Become a junior wetlands water quality and conservation specialist by taking part in hands-on lab activities.
  • Become a budding soil scientist by getting a close-up, “dirty hands” look at the properties of mud.
  • Become a blooming horticulturist by discovering the wicked, dangerous, sticky, deceptive and downright incredible adaptations plants have developed to help them survive.
  • Become a botanist-to-be by attending a dissection lab for an inside look at the fascinating structures of seeds and flowers.
  • Become an aspiring agriculturalist by touring the edible gardens at Mounts and learning how to grow and nurture tasty fruits and vegetables.
  • Become an edible gardener by making healthy garden snacks.

The cost to attend each week-long session is $250 for Mounts members, $290 for nonmembers. (Note: an extra $50 per camper will cover extended care, 8 to 9 am, and 3 to 4 pm.)

For each session of the Garden Explorers Summer Camp, young participants should bring a refillable water bottle, a healthy lunch, a hat, sunscreen, and bug repellant.

For each camper, Mounts will provide materials for all activities, snacks, and water for refilling bottles.

To register for the Garden Explorers Summer Camp at Mounts in July, please visit https://www.mounts.org/garden-explorers-summer-camp/.

About Mounts Botanical Garden of Palm Beach County:

With a mission to inspire and educate through nature, Mounts Botanical Garden is Palm Beach County’s oldest and largest botanical garden. Visitors to this 20-acre tropical oasis will see an acclaimed collection of 25 unique garden areas containing more than 7,000 species of tropical and sub-tropical plants, including Florida natives, exotic and tropical fruit trees, herbs, palms, roses, cactus, bromeliads and much more. Mounts Botanical Garden is part of the Palm Beach County Cooperative Extension Department, in partnership with the University of Florida and the non-profit Friends of the Mounts Botanical Garden. This project is sponsored in part by The Board of County Commissioners, the Tourist Development Council, and the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County. Mounts Botanical is located at 531 North Military Trail in West Palm Beach. For more information, please visit www.mounts.org.

50th Anniversary Urban League Gala

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Photos by Carol Porter

The 50th Anniversary Palm Beach County Urban League Gala was held on Friday May 12, at the Palm Beach County Convention Center featuring a special guest performance by R and B Grammy Nominated Artist Kenny Lattimore. Among the honorees at the event were entrepreneur and philanthropist Winsome McIntosh, West Palm Beach Mayor Keith James and Precious Clark, a senior at Pahokee Middle Senor High School. 

A Local’s Guide to New York City

Walk the streets of New York today and it’s difficult to imagine just three years ago this massive city fell silent. With the pandemic behind us, New York City once again bustles with tourists and locals enjoying all the Big Apple has to offer. Despite being a 15-year resident of New York City, I’m always discovering something new. Whether you’ve traveled to New York numerous times or have never experienced the city that never sleeps, here are a few things to add to your itinerary in Manhattan and other boroughs. Note: Pack your walking shoes we’re covering some miles. But, don’t worry, epic views and a delicious dinner conclude the itinerary!

Explore NYC’s Westside on the Hudson River Greenway

A hidden treasure, the Little Red Lighthouse stands beneath the George Washington Bridge in Upper Manhattan and the Hudson River Greenway will lead you to it. Stretching 11 miles, the greenway spans the entire length of Manhattan’s west side. Besides finding the Little Red Lighthouse, along the route are sculptures, benches, railroad memorabilia, midtown piers and plenty of riverside cafes. The trail passes through Fort Washington Park, Riverbank Park, Riverside Park and Hudson River Park before finishing at Battery Park at the southernmost tip of Manhattan.

Malcolm Cochran’s Private Passage is an eye-catching sculpture along the trail. It’s a 30’x 8’6” giant wine bottle resting on its side. Inside is a representation of an interior statement from the ocean liner, Queen Mary. Doing the full greenway will take most of the day but there are plenty of green spaces for picnicking and riverside cafes along the trail to help you recharge when needed.

Discover Little Island

As you explore the Hudson River Greenway, you’ll discover a new addition to Manhattan’s west side, Little Island. Rising from the remnants of Pier 54, Little Island sits on a site that has played a pivotal role in the story of the Hudson River and its surrounding communities. The former pier now serves as a park with two acres of beautifully landscaped grounds. Little Island opened on May 21, 2021, as an oasis for New Yorkers and visitors with dazzling views and an abundance of free education programs and performances. Interesting works of art are also interspersed throughout the park.

Hudson River Park continues south from Little Island featuring tennis courts, miniature golf, basketball courts and bike trails along the way with more art woven into the landscape.

Continue past the Hudson River Park in lower Manhattan to Battery Park and look for the Seaglass Carousel. Riders sit inside iridescent fish in an aquatic setting for this uniquely magical carousel ride.

Experience the High Line

Built on a historic freight rail line, the High Line stretches from Gansevoort Street in the Meatpacking District to 34th Street along Manhattan’s west side. This elevated walkway has become one of New York’s top attractions.

Highlights along the way including the Chelsea Thicket—a two-block section of the pathway that meanders through a miniature forest of dogwoods, bottlebrush buckeye, roses and various other trees and shrubs. Original railroad tracks are embedded into the walkway as a nod to the path’s original identity.
Between 14th and 15th Streets the walkway is lined with lounge chairs filled with sunbathers during the day and those looking for the best seat in town to catch a sunset over the Hudson River. Train lovers will appreciate the area around 34th Street that overlooks the train yard outside of Penn Station.

Explore the Brooklyn Heights Promenade

As one of the first neighborhoods of commuting New Yorkers in the early 1800s, Brooklyn Heights earning the title of “America’s First Suburb.” The historic neighborhood retains much of its 19th-century charm with quaint tree-lined streets flanked by stately mansions and lovely brownstones.

The Brooklyn Heights promenade runs alongside the East River where stunning unobstructed views of Lower Manhattan are the main attraction. It’s one of the most romantic spots in New York City. Lined with flower beds, trees, playgrounds and benches, the promenade stretches one-third mile. Highlights include views of the Statue of Liberty, the historic Brooklyn Bridge and the Manhattan skyline.

Take a Sunset Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge

One of the country’s oldest suspension bridges, the Brooklyn Bridge is a New York City icon. Completed in 1883, the bridge spans nearly 1600 feet across the East River. A stunning structure with Neo-Gothic towers, the Brooklyn Bridge connects New York City’s past with its present. And it’s one of New York’s most popular walks.

It’s an easy 1.2-mile walk each way on the pedestrian walkway which is situated above the bustling traffic lanes. You can walk it from Manhattan to the Bronx or vice versa. Personally, I prefer to take the subway to Brooklyn and walk back to Manhattan. Take the A or C subway train downtown in Manhattan to High Street in Brooklyn. Then take a short walk to the bridge entrance.
The Manhattan skyline unfolds before you and Lady Liberty is in view in New York harbor. There’s nothing quite like walking the Brooklyn Bridge. A walk just before sunset yields views of the city’s lights coming alive as the sun disappears. It has always been one of my favorite New York experiences.

A Walk in the Bronx on High Bridge

Built in 1848, the High Bridge (originally known as the Aqueduct Bridge) is the oldest bridge in New York City. After being closed for over 40 years, the bridge reopened as a pedestrian walkway in 2015. The steel arch bridge rises to a height of 140 feet over the Harlem River connecting Manhattan with the Bronx. Historical markers along the walkway provide a glimpse into New York City’s history.

The eastern end of the bridge sits in the Highbridge section of the Bronx near the western end of West 170th Street. The western end exists in Highbridge Park in Manhattan where the 200-foot octagonal High Bridge Water Tower stands watch. Sculptures throughout the park provide an artistic touch to this historic section of the city.

Experience Epic Views and Dining at the Empire State Building

One of NYC’s most iconic landmarks, the Empire State Building showcases views of the city’s skyline from its 82nd-floor observatory and even more incredible views from the 102nd floor. Even if you’ve been previously, new exhibits within the Empire State Building provide insights into this art deco masterpiece. Besides, the views never get old!
Given the attraction’s appeal, the best way to visit the Empire State Building is with a VIP experience. Observatory packages can now be purchased in tandem with the Empire State Building’s art deco-styled restaurant, STATE Grill and Bar. The package provides a skip-the-line VIP pass for the observatories. And, the pass is paired with a two-course lunch or three-course dinner on the ground floor. Packages are available at the Empire State Building Observatory and online via esbnyc.com.

Summer Dreaming

By Heidi Hess

The dream is always the same. I’m gently floating down a babbling brook on a very large leaf. The sun overhead has me feeling very relaxed and sleepy. And then *SPLAT*!  I’ve been shot with a water cannon. The icy blast pulls me out of my wonderful daydream. So much for relaxation but such is the life of this Pirate Mom.

The weather is really warming up and the family and I are in summer mode. That means lots of H2O and if I have it my way, lots of lazy rivers. We have some great places locally to get your floating fix while the kids splash and race down water slides with their friends. 

Calypso Bay water park is right off Southern Blvd and quite literally in Wellington’s backyard. It is a marvelous splash pad/playground for the littles, two intense water slides for older kids, and, of course, a lazy river. Shaded picnic tables are available. You can bring a cooler or grab a bite at their concession stand. When my kids were little we were here all the time.  

Adults 12 and up are $16.00, children 3 to 11 years old are $12.00, toddlers ages 1 and 2 years old are $7.00, and infants are free. Also, if you go after 3 pm the regular admission is $2.00 off on adults and children AND the summer camps are usually gone or on their way out- BONUS!  During the summer, the camps are always there but Calypso Bay is really good at monitoring how many come in and how long they stay.

And if we are talking about water parks and lazy rivers we can’t forget The Rapids. This is a bit of a drive from Wellington but it’s worth it. If you have pre-teens or teens, this is the place for them. There are a myriad of water slides to choose from, a wave pool, something called Flow Rider and… ahhh… a lazy river. It’s a fairly large water park and the camps are usually out in full force but there’s more space than Calypso Bay AND you can reserve a cabana. The ticket price is more – weekdays it’s $49.99 if you purchase online and on weekends it’s $59.99. It’s a bit of a splurge but well worth it. 

Whatever you do, I hope you get to enjoy everything that makes summer great. And hey, if all else fails, bust out the kiddy pool in the backyard, get out your inner tube, and have the kids shoot you with the garden hose.  

Our Favorite Tips for Staying Energized During the Day

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By Cheryl Alker

Do you have a friend who seems to have a never-ending supply of energy? Annoying aren’t they? But seriously, do you ever wonder how they manage it? Cracking the secret to a bountiful supply of energy is a code worth cracking, wouldn’t you say? So here are some practical tips for increased energy.

Eat Breakfast.  

I am sure you have heard this so many times before but I’m going to say it again; EAT BREAKFAST! If you are the type who loves to start their day with a large cup of coffee, then I can pretty much guarantee that a few hours later the crash will happen leaving you feeling anxious, jittery and hungry. Here’s what happens when you start the day this way. Firstly, you are correct in thinking that caffeine can suppress your appetite. So what your cup of Joe is actually doing is convincing your brain that you actually don’t need breakfast leaving you thinking that you are not the breakfast type. You are literally trying to override the feeling of hunger and long term that is not good for your overall health, energy levels and weight. 

Listen, you don’t have to give up your coffee but eat a balanced breakfast with your favorite cup. If your last meal was around 6pm/7pm the night before and you get up and 6am/7am then that is 12 hours without food.  If I asked you to go 12 hours without food during the day do you think a cup of coffee would suffice in giving you the energy you needed? So just because you are sleeping during that particular 12 hours between dinner and breakfast the next day it never-the-less is 12 hours without food. So break the fast and eat breakfast to set the tone for the rest of the day. 

Eat regularly.  So many people decide to skip a meal (often lunch) in the vain hope that they will lose weight.  However, the opposite happens and of course our energy levels plummet.  When we allow ourselves to get past the point of hunger our bodies will react in an instinctive way. It will try and get the quickest source of energy as possible. The body knows simple carbohydrates are the easiest form of food to take in that will convert to energy the quickest, and that my friends is sugar! 

We all know the consequences of this type of energy boost; it is short lived and the energy crash in inevitable.  The best way to tackle this is to eat regularly and often throughout the day. The timing will vary from person to person and will also be dictated by that day’s activity level. Rule of thumb though is to nourish your body every 3 to 4 hours.

Eat balanced. We know balance is everything in life. This totally applies to the food you are eating. Take a good look at what is going into your mouth during the day. Aim to balance your meals and snacks including high-quality protein with healthy fats and fiber-filled carbohydrates in each sitting.

Jupiter’s Dog-Friendly Beach: Four-Legged Paradise

By Tricia Roberts

Jupiter is home to one of the few remaining dog-friendly beaches in the state of Florida. Jupiter’s Town Council adopted a policy in 1989 to allow dogs on Jupiter’s beaches. Since then, the dog-friendly area has been defined as a 2.5 mile stretch between beach marker #26 at Marcinski Road and going north to beach marker #57.

This stretch of sand has become a favorite for locals and visitors alike. The dog-friendly beach offers a unique and welcoming experience for dogs to enjoy the sun, surf, and endless playtime while dog owners will find a strong sense of community.

The beach attracts a diverse group of people who share a common love for their canine companions. This shared passion creates a welcoming and friendly atmosphere where dog owners can connect, exchange stories and tips, and celebrate the joys of having four-legged friends. The dog-friendly beach has become a gathering place for dog lovers, forming a tight-knit community that enhances the overall experience for visitors.

Safety is a top priority at Jupiter’s Dog-Friendly Beach. To ensure the well-being of both dogs and their owners, the beach has implemented certain rules and regulations. Only behaved, obedient and well-socialized dogs should be brought to the beach, and owners should supervise their dogs at all times. Leash laws should be obeyed while walking to and from the off-leash beach, and dog waste must be removed to keep the beach clean. Waste bags are provided at every crossover along the beach.

There are a handful of tips that are provided by the Town of Jupiter and Friends of Jupiter Beach for proper care for dogs at the beach. Fresh water should be provided by dog owners as dogs shouldn’t drink sea water. Since prolonged exposure to the sun can be harmful, owners are encouraged to provide shade and even apply sunscreen to the nose and ears of light-skinned or short-haired breeds. Additionally, owners should be aware of beach conditions such as sea lice, jellyfish, strong tides or rip currents and take extra precautions or avoid the beach when it’s too dangerous.

The beach provides ample parking spaces, making it easy to access the shoreline. There are also restroom facilities and outdoor showers available for visitors to rinse off sand and saltwater. With these amenities in place, dog owners can fully focus on enjoying their time at the beach with their furry companions.

A paradise for both dogs and their owners, Jupiter’s Dog-Friendly Beach offers a great escape for those seeking a fun and memorable outing with their canine companions. Whether you’re a local looking for a regular hangout or a visitor exploring the wonders of south Florida, this dog-friendly beach is sure to exceed your expectations. So, grab your dog’s leash, pack some toys and a water bottle, and get ready for a day of sun, sand, and endless adventures at the beach.

5 Watering Mistakes You’re Probably Making in Your Garden (and How to Avoid Them)

By Charmaine Peters

Like all living things, plants need water to survive. In fact, between 80 and 95 percent of a plant’s composition is made up of water, and nearly 9 billion gallons of water are used daily to water gardens and lawns. The amount of water your garden gets can have a major impact on its growth, resistance to pests, and even the plants’ nutrients. 

Since water is vital for plants to thrive, how you’re watering your garden is critical. If the plants in your garden aren’t growing right or are dying, you may be watering them wrong. Here are five mistakes you may be making and how you can fix them to grow a healthy garden!

1.  Watering All Your Plants the Same

Every plant is going to need something different to help it grow. This goes for watering too. Assuming that your plants need the same amount and frequency of watering is one of the most common mistakes you can make (and a pretty easy one to fix). While you may be watering one plant in your garden just right, you may be drowning the one next to it.

Don’t rely on a phone notification to go on a watering spree for your garden. Before you start planting for the season, learn what each plant in your garden needs so you can keep it growing all season long!

2.   Not Watering Enough

It’s often said that keeping up with a garden is like taking care of children. They both need consistent care and attention to help them grow strong and healthy. Fortunately, plants will tell you when their needs aren’t being met, especially when it comes to watering. Wilting, discolored, or falling leaves are a good indicator that your garden needs more water, but just to be sure, check your topsoil. If it’s dry, your plant is probably dehydrated!

As the temperatures rise in South Florida, it’s important to keep an eye on your plants to make sure they are getting enough water to grow. If you notice your plants are starting to die of dehydration, try to move it out of direct sunlight. If you have a potted plant, submerge the plant in water for about 30 minutes and then drain. Then, consider setting a reminder for yourself to check the topsoil of your plants more often.

3.  Watering Your Plants Too Much

Contrary to what most people think, you can over-water your plants, and it can ruin them just as quickly as not watering them enough. Overwatering can limit or cut off oxygen supply that roots depend on to grow properly. Too much water can also lead to root rot and attract other diseases and pests to your garden.

So how can you tell if you have overwatered your plant? You may see yellowing or loss of leaves, but those can also be signs of a lack of water. One of the best ways to tell in the moment is to feel the topsoil. If your plants are looking overwatered, let the soil dry out and check the drainage holes in your pots to make sure the roots are only getting what they need. You can also take time to repot your plant with new soil. 

4.   Watering from Overhead

When watering your garden, your first thought was probably to invest in a watering can or to shower your garden from afar with a hose. However, watering from overhead is more wasteful and puts your plants at higher risk for contracting diseases. Instead, there is a healthier and more sustainable way to water, and that means getting up close and personal with your garden. To effectively water your plants, make sure you start at the base and shower the soil around your garden rather than the leaves of your plant!

5.     Not Using Containers with Drainage Holes

When you shop for pots to house your plants, check the bottom for drainage holes – not every pot has them. Without them, water is trapped, leaving your plants at a higher risk for overwatering. If you have a pot without drainage holes, you can carefully use a drill to make them yourself. If you have a pot with a saucer underneath (usually used to keep water off of your counter), remove it. The saucer prevents proper drainage and can lead to overwatering and root rotting.

Water is one of the most basic necessities for any plant so it’s important to do it right. Whether you’re a first-time planter or a seasoned gardener, now is the time to fix those watering mistakes so you can watch your garden thrive!