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FAU Stiles-Nicholson Brain Institute and Charles E. Schmidt College of Science Launch Neuroscience Graduate Program

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FAU Stiles-Nicholson Brain Institute and Charles E. Schmidt College of Science Launch Neuroscience Graduate Program

FAU Stiles-Nicholson Brain Institute and Charles E. Schmidt College of Science
Launch Neuroscience Graduate Program

            JUPITER, Fla. (November 9, 2021) – A collaboration between the Florida Atlantic University Stiles-Nicholson Brain Institute and Charles E. Schmidt College of Science has resulted in the launch of a unique partnership to train the next generation of brain scientists through the newly announced Neuroscience Graduate Program (NGP). The innovative, multi-campus Ph.D. program will blend a comprehensive curriculum that ranges from molecules to mind with exceptional research opportunities, and will serve as a key element in FAU’s pursuit of groundbreaking interdisciplinary neuroscience research.

To maximize exposure of students to the full breadth of neuroscience, the program will bring together FAU’s Charles E. Schmidt College of Science; Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine; College of Engineering and Computer Science; College of Education; and the Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College, as well as affiliate faculty from Scripps Research Florida and the Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience.

            “FAU has made a significant investment in the highest level of neuroscience education, seeing this effort as essential to the University’s effort to become a preeminent research and training institute, said Randy Blakely, Ph.D., executive director, FAU Stiles-Nicholson Brain Institute and director of the NGP. “Our program offers our students technologically- opportunities that will prepare them to solve some of mankind’s long-standing and complex puzzles – how sensation, emotions and memory rely on, and dynamically alter brain cells; how our successes, failures and social experiences impact the brain; and how prevalent, devastating brain disorders, ranging from depression to Alzheimer’s disease, can be understood and treated,” said Blakely.

            NGP students are expected to complete the program within six years, pursuing a curriculum tailored to their career interests with significant time committed to advanced research. 

            “The program provides our trainees with the flexibility to evaluate research projects and faculty mentors prior to making a final decision on the direction of their doctoral research journey,” said Teresa Wilcox, Ph.D., interim dean, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science. “NGP students will identify their primary research from among the program’s three areas of research and education emphasis – cellular, molecular and biomedical neuroscience; sensorimotor, cognitive and behavioral neuroscience; and theoretical and computational neuroscience – with each area presenting the opportunity to work across disciplines that are leading advances in neuroscience today,” said Wilcox.

The NGP will initiate activities in January 2022, with student recruitment already underway, welcoming the first cohort for the fall 2022 semester.

-FAU-

About Florida Atlantic University:

Florida Atlantic University, established in 1961, officially opened its doors in 1964 as the fifth public university in Florida. Today, the University serves more than 30,000 undergraduate and graduate students across six campuses located along the southeast Florida coast. In recent years, the University has doubled its research expenditures and outpaced its peers in student achievement rates. Through the coexistence of access and excellence, FAU embodies an innovative model where traditional achievement gaps vanish. FAU is designated a Hispanic-serving institution, ranked as a top public university by U.S. News & World Report and a High Research Activity institution by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. For more information, visit www.fau.edu..  

About the FAU Stiles-Nicholson Brain Institute:

Inaugurated in 2016 on the John D. MacArthur Campus in Jupiter, Fla., the newly named FAU Stiles-Nicholson Brain Institute, supports research, education and community outreach among more than 100 faculty level researchers at FAU and its affiliate research centers. One of FAU’s four pillars that guide the University’s goals and strategic actions, the Institute seeks to unlock the secrets of brain development, function and plasticity and how the mechanisms uncovered can be compromised to drive devastating brain disorders. From the study of neuronal development and signaling to investigations of brain diseases including addiction, autism, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease, researchers from FAU’s Stiles-Nicholson Brain Institute seek to generate knowledge that benefits society. For more information about the Institute and its members, visit http://fau.edu/ibrain/.

THE CENTER FOR CREATIVE EDUCATION IS MOVING ITS CAMPUS TO SERVE MORE STUDENTS

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THE CENTER FOR CREATIVE EDUCATION IS MOVING ITS CAMPUS TO SERVE MORE STUDENTS

THE CENTER FOR CREATIVE EDUCATION IS MOVING ITS CAMPUS TO SERVE MORE STUDENTS

The Foundations School a solution for success for up to 200 students at risk for academic failure

Jacek Photography

(WEST PALM BEACH) – Students from The Foundations School wore handmade costumes representing their vocabulary words including “stormy,” “artistic” and “wind” today to welcome guests to a groundbreaking event at 2400 Metrocentre Blvd, West Palm Beach. The location will house their new school and headquarters for the Center for Creative Education (CCE) and is expected to open in time for fall semester 2022. Spurred by increases in student reading scores in only its first year, the nearly 30-year-old nonprofit is making more room to implement its vision of giving the community’s most socioeconomically challenged young people an opportunity for a brighter tomorrow.

“This is an exciting time for CCE as we embark on a new step forward that will increase our impact in our community and beyond,” said Robert L. Hamon, CCE president and CEO. “CCE opened its doors in January 2021 to our newest initiative, The Foundations School, the latest program designed to fully implement the impact of our 27 years of service to the community. This new campus will allow CCE to expand all of our educational services and it will provide a home with space to grow for The Foundations School.”

The Foundations School is specifically designed to support those students who, based on test scores, will not be successful without substantial support; who are behind academically; attending poorly performing schools; and may be living with challenging economic circumstances and other threats to their success.

Hamon said the children in attendance had produced their costumes as part of a vocabulary parade project. Kindergartener Taylor S. dressed as “symmetry.” First grader Zayin F. was clad as “inspiration.” Third grader Neriah L. was a “thermometer.” At the groundbreaking event, guests had a chance to see the research students did on their vocabulary word, as well as their creative handiwork planning and constructing a costume, and teaching guests what they learned.

According to Hamon, CCE has launched a nearly $17 million capital campaign to complete the construction of its new site. Honorary campaign honorary chairs are Palm Beach residents and prominent philanthropists, Irene and Jim Karp. Nearly $7 million in funding has been raised to date, including donations from the Cornelia T. Bailey Foundation, Dan Catalfumo of Catalfumo Construction, the Conrad Hilton Foundation and the Jasteka Foundation.

“Our goal today is to celebrate this important milestone in CCE’s achievements and to appeal to the philanthropic nature of everyone who hears us,” said Irene Karp. “We get to play a role in the issues we believe are the key to the future – education, the arts and building our community. We hope others are inspired to be a part of this great organization, to follow our lead and give generously. We can all make a difference and your support benefits each and every one of us in South Florida.”

With access to four acres of land at the new site, CCE is renovating an existing 28,000-square-foot building to house administration offices and a 200-student Kindergarten-through-third-grade elementary school. The site’s current building will offer 12 technologically equipped classrooms, designed to inspire creative thinking and academic success; a 900-square-foot space built specifically for creativity and exploration; a multipurpose cafeteria, as well as an outdoor fenced-in playground. The media and visual arts center will be housed in a brand new 2,200 square-foot-building. SpinaOrourke + Partners has been hired as the architect and space planner, and Quest Builders will oversee construction.

As part of its approach, The Foundations School uses small class sizes, flexible grouping, arts integration, and highly qualified and dedicated educators. A low student-to-teacher ratio and a sense of community in the classroom ensure opportunities to customize learning activities to match students’ learning styles and academic goals. Targeted for students in underserved communities, the independent school uses a sliding scale fee and tuition is determined based upon need. While every family contributes something, no one will ever be unable to attend due to a financial barrier.

“Our focus is on ensuring grade-level reading,” continued Hamon. “As the foundation for all learning, reading is not only a building block, but a student’s most crucial academic skill. Through third grade, children are learning to read; after third grade, children are reading to learn. That is why we made the decision to start a school; to create an environment where we are fully committed to ensuring that all students acquire those foundational skills to be successful regardless of their socioeconomic status. 

“Most of our students have academic challenges in front of them, and other threats to their success,” Hamon continued. “We are their solution. We offer a solid educational foundation in a place where they feel safe and valued. Our students receive additional resources and other protective factors that help mitigate their challenges so that they can break the cycle of multigenerational poverty and go on to live their best and most productive life.”

To learn more about enrolling in The Foundations School, visit cceflorida.org or call Dr. Kevin Kovacs at 561.805.9927; extension 118. To learn more about general CCE programming or to make a tax-deductible contribution to the Center for Creative Education, a 501(c)(3), please call Vivianne Hall at 561.805.9927; extension 105.

PALM BEACH COUNTY FOOD BANK HOSTS SIXTH ANNUAL EMPTY BOWLS DELRAY BEACH

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PALM BEACH COUNTY FOOD BANK HOSTS SIXTH ANNUAL EMPTY BOWLS DELRAY BEACH

PALM BEACH COUNTY FOOD BANK HOSTS SIXTH ANNUAL EMPTY BOWLS DELRAY BEACH

The popular grassroots event gestures to the 181,000 hungry residents in Palm Beach County                                                                 

(Lake Worth Beach, Fla.) – Cooked to perfection is Palm Beach County Food Bank’s (PBCFB) Sixth Annual Empty Bowls event returning to Delray Beach. On Saturday, December 4, the event welcomes the community to enjoy a simple meal of soup, bread and water reminding guests to eat simply, so others may simply eat. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., attendees are encouraged to grab a spoon for a modest meal in-person or via drive through in support of PBCFB at Trinity Delray Lutheran Church and School.

The national grassroots event prompts people to recognize all the empty bowls in the community, and specifically, the one-in-six people in Palm Beach County who are food insecure. This year’s event chairs include Stephanie Dodge and Billy Himmelrich.

“This feel-good event always leaves supporters wanting to come back for seconds,” said Jamie Kendall, PBCFB CEO. “People are ready to serve and are amazed to learn how many of our neighbors in Palm Beach County experience hunger silently. It’s a humble reminder to look up from our own dinner plate to see how we can provide others with a nutritious and substantial meal.”

Old School Bakery will provide rustic bread and 30 local chefs will donate savory, signature soups, all served by local community leaders. All money raised by purchased tickets will support the nonprofit in its mission toward hunger relief.

Platinum sponsors for the event include Trinity Delray Lutheran Church and School, Old School Bakery, The Garchik Family Foundation, The Dodge Family, Shelly and Billy Himmelrich, Delray Magazine, Pechter Family Foundation and Brenda Medore and Leanne Adair. Sponsorship opportunities are still available at pbcfoodbank.org/delray-beach-empty-bowls. 

Billy and Shelly Himmelrich and Stephanie Dodge. Photo by CAPEHART

The PBCFB procures food from grocery stores, farmers, food distributors, wholesalers and other sources and provides it to almost 200 local community partners, including food pantries, soup kitchens and residential housing programs. Palm Beach County Food Bank programs reach families, children and seniors, and connect those in need to available benefits and resources. Partner agencies distribute the products received, including culturally appropriate food and necessities like paper towels and diapers. This process ensures families have access to food when they need it most.

Participate in Empty Bowls and leave with a full heart! To purchase a ticket, please visit pbcfoodbank.org/delray-beach-empty-bowls or for further details, please contact PBCFB at 561-670-2518.

HOMESAFE RECEIVES TRANSFORMATIVE $5 MILLION GIFT FROM STOOPS FAMILY FOUNDATION

Azwad Ahmed
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HOMESAFE RECEIVES TRANSFORMATIVE $5 MILLION GIFT FROM STOOPS FAMILY FOUNDATION

(Lake Worth, Fla.) – HomeSafe CEO Matthew Ladika proudly announced a significant and transformative $5 million gift to the nonprofit organization whose mission is to help South Florida’s most vulnerable residents – victims of child abuse and domestic violence.  On October 28, a gathering of HomeSafe supporters attended a dedication of the Stoops Family Foundation Residential Cottage at HomeSafe’s newest campus in West Palm Beach. HomeSafe’s Vice President of the Board of Directors, Aggie Stoops, and her husband Jeff, residents of Delray Beach, were thanked for their incredible generosity.

“Through our results-driven approach, HomeSafe is the leading provider of prevention and intervention services, serving more than 14,000 infants, children, young adults and families each year,” said Ladika.  “We are just one of five specialized residential therapy homes in the state of Florida—the only one in Southeast Florida—and we currently care for more than half of all of the children these organizations serve.  With the Stoops’ generous $5 million gift, HomeSafe can continue to grow, enhance our programs and facilities, and evolve to meet the changing needs of these children.”

Aggie Stoops received a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Work from Florida State University and continued her education at the institution receiving her Master’s in Social Work, with an emphasis in child welfare. Before she left the workforce to raise her four children, she was employed by Florida Baptist Children’s Home, the Florida Sheriff’s Youth Organization and the Palm Beach Habilitation Center. Mrs. Stoops is the Chairman of the Board of the Stoops Family Foundation, a private foundation focused on medical, social services and educational causes. In addition to HomeSafe’s Board, she also serves on the Florida State University Foundation Board of Trustees.

“My time as a social worker, counseling traumatized children with developmental disabilities, was an important part of my life,” said Aggie Stoops. “Because of these experiences, I was immediately drawn to the HomeSafe mission. These children come from some of the toughest, most heart-breaking circumstances imaginable, and are typically well beyond the capabilities of the traditional foster care system. HomeSafe is changing lives and we are excited to be a part of its continued success, helping vulnerable children and families who have experienced abuse and neglect.”

Jeff Stoops received his Bachelor of Science and Juris Doctor degrees from Florida State University. He has served as the President and Chief Executive Officer of SBA Communications Corporation since 2002. Based in Boca Raton, Fla., SBA owns and operates almost 34,000 wireless communications sites in 15 countries across the globe, employing over 1,500 people. SBA is a member of the S&P 500 and one of Florida’s largest public companies by market capitalization. The company trades on the NASDAQ under the symbol “SBAC.” Mr. Stoops currently serves as Chairman of the Board of Directors of The Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts. He also serves on the Board of Directors of the Children’s Healthcare Charity, Inc. (the Honda Classic), Seminole Boosters, Inc. and the Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties.

“HomeSafe has a village of caring, highly trained professionals providing a safe, nurturing home to children that are struggling with severe mental and emotional challenges caused by the trauma that they have endured, through no fault of their own,” said Jeff Stoops. “HomeSafe typically is the last hope for these children before they are moved to a lockdown facility. We know our gift will help these children heal, cultivate a positive self-image, and pursue a healthy and hope-filled future for themselves. We also hope it will inspire support from others for their important mission.”

The Stoops Family Foundation Residential Cottage is located at HomeSafe’s new Sylvester Family Foundation West campus at 654 Lyons Road, West Palm Beach. The new 9,984 square-foot Cottage will house 12 girls in their own individual suites, which include a private bedroom and bathroom. The Cottage also has a kitchen, living and dining areas, therapy wing and gaming area to create a comfortable home environment. This location provides Residential Group Care where treatment services occur in home-like settings. Dedicated professionals, guardians, community members, and school personnel are all involved in the program. Children in HomeSafe’s residential group homes are expected to attend school and participate in suitable recreational and social activities. The specialized therapeutic group care is designed to give children the help and support that they need to achieve success.

HomeSafe currently has seven locations, including the Sylvester Family Foundation West campus. The main location in Lake Worth includes the organization’s administrative offices and programs including Healthy Beginnings, which is the Child Development Program for children from birth through five years of age and their families; Residential Group Care and SafetyNet, which provides immediate intervention and prevention services to victims of domestic violence and their children. The Bernstein Family Foundation Campus in Boca Raton includes Residential Group Care and Healthy Beginnings. The Belle Glade, Wellington and West Palm Beach campuses offer the Healthy Beginnings program. HomeSafe at Pond Place, located on the Bernstein Independent Living Campus in Palm Springs, offers the Independent Living Program for children that have aged out of the foster care system.

For more information on HomeSafe or to donate, please visit helphomesafe.org or call 561-383-9800.

History On The Rocks returns to Yesteryear Village

Azwad Ahmed
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History On The Rocks returns to Yesteryear Village

West Palm Beach, Fla. — A variety of food bites, spirits and camaraderie will top the evening at the South Florida Fair’s third annual History on the Rocks, a tasting experience happening from 6-10 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 12. Presented by Glade & Grove Supply, this rockin’ signature event will take place at Yesteryear Village at the South Florida Fairgrounds, 601-7 Sansbury’s Way.

As guests stroll under the twinkling lights of Yesteryear Village and its historic buildings, they will be offered food bites and pairings. Tasty cocktails, mocktails, locally brewed beer and desserts will be available at more than 20 food and beverage stations featuring local chefs, foods, farmers and local drink brewers. Guests also may get some holiday shopping in with local vendors in a unique MarketPlace.

Participating partners include Chef Jeffrey Schlissel (aka the Bacon Cartel), Chef Rasheed Shihada, Retired Firefighters of Palm Beach County, Western Palm Beach County Farm Bureau, Florida Dairy Farmers, Hooked on Ponics, Keys Chocolates & Ice Cream, Sam Edwards with Staghorn Kitchen, Mama Jugs, WrapOlé, and Professional Concessions, Inc.

Wood burning fire pits and music by the Atlantic City Boys will add to the ambiance. The musical group includes four dynamic lead singers who have wowed audiences at Las Vegas, Walt Disney World, Atlantic City, as well as cruise ships around the world. The show is a mix of world-class vocals and interactive comedy featuring the rock-n-roll harmonies of the Beach Boys, Drifters, the BeeGees, and Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. The Boys have performed with many greats, from Jay Leno to Huey Lewis, Pattie Labelle and the Temptations.

General Admission is $75 in advance and $80 at the gate, and $25 for a Designated Driver ticket (includes everything but alcohol) in advance and $30 at the gate. VIP tables of 10 may be reserved for $750. VIP ticket holder perks include access to the event one hour before general ticket holders, specialty food/beverage gifts, two bottles of wine per VIP table, unlimited tastings at food/beverage stations and early shopping in the MarketPlace (value of $110 per person).

Tickets are on sale online now at https://www.southfloridafair.com/historyontherocks. Ages 13-17 must be accompanied by a parent/legal guardian. Ages 12 and under are not permitted. Everyone under the age of 21 must purchase a Designated Driver ticket. Organizers reserve the right to card everyone.

For more information, call 561-793-0333 or visit the website, www.southfloridafair.com.

Toy Shortages Feared to Impact Holiday Gift Drive for Neediest Children Locally

Azwad Ahmed
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Toy Shortages Feared to Impact Holiday Gift Drive for Neediest Children Locally

GL Homes & Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County launch a holiday gift drive to provide toys to the area’s neediest children while tackling economic and toy shortage issues

West Palm Beach, Fla.- With the help of title sponsor GL Homes, Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County launched an ambitious holiday gift drive to collect toys and teen-appropriate gifts for Club members at 17 Boys & Girls Clubs across the county. The gift drive launched November 1, will run until December 10 to allow for gifts to be collected and distributed in time for each Club to host a traditional holiday party. The festive and memorable Club parties will be the highlight of the holiday season for most members, and for some of the children, it will be their only chance to receive a gift this season.

“As the recovery from the pandemic continues, it’s important to hold onto our traditions and help the children that need us most,” said Sarah Alsofrom, GL Homes senior director of community relations. “GL Homes is proud to be the title sponsor of the holiday gift drive for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County because our goal is to allow all children to celebrate this magical time of the year. After a year of sacrifices, we hope all children can focus on the joy of childhood and enjoy the festivities.”

Without the community’s generosity in donating new and unwrapped gifts, the holidays would not be as bright for most Club children. Currently, 95% of Club members live at or below the federal poverty level and depend on the Clubs for extra assistance. Many of the neighborhoods where Clubs are strategically located to provide the biggest impact have not rebounded quickly from the economic problems created by the pandemic.

“Our Clubs provide food, extra academic support and even mental health counseling for families that continue to struggle. Thanks to community partners like GL Homes, we will also make sure that the holidays are not a disappointment for the neediest children in our area,” said President and CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County Jaene Miranda. “This is a special time of the year for our Club members and it is a time that I’m personally overwhelmed with gratitude as the community rallies around our Club children to make sure they have an enjoyable holiday like all children deserve.”

This year the GL Homes and Boys & Girls Club Holiday Gift Drive will have dozens of in-person drop-off sites thanks to community partners. Gift givers can also choose to participate virtually by visiting the Clubs’ online wish list and purchasing items that will be shipped directly to the Clubs. For a list of drop-off sites and the online wish list, visit www.BGCPBC.org/HolidayGiftDrive.

Adding to the challenges to this year’s holiday gift drive is a predicted nationwide shortage of toys due to widespread supply chain disruptions and labor shortages.  Those considering donating a gift are requested to make their donation early.  National retailers already expect shortages and recommend that gift buying be done before the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, the traditional start of the holiday shopping season.

“While creating the Club’s online wish list, we’ve already experienced significant shortages and backorders of popular toys. Daily we update our online wish list to account for items that are no longer in stock,” said Vice President of Corporate Partnerships and Marketing of Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County Eric Roby. “Traditionally, most donations are made during the tail end of our drive, and our concern will be the lack of available toys if donors are not able to give earlier this year.”

“I have full confidence that with the support of GL Homes, Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County will be able to meet the goal of providing a new gift for each Club member across the county. With the support of our community, we will overcome any challenges and make sure that all children have a happy and memorable holiday,” said Alsofrom.

Midas Franchisee Ron Katz named ‘Humanitarian of the Year’

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Midas Franchisee Ron Katz named ‘Humanitarian of the Year’

Midas Franchisee Ron Katz named ‘Humanitarian of the Year’

Tire Business presents community-minded Florida franchisee with one of the industry’s biggest awards

Palm Beach Gardens, FL – November 1, 2021 – Ron Katz, a community-minded Midas franchisee with three stores in Florida, has been presented with the 2021 Tire Business Tire Dealer Humanitarian Award, one of the industry’s most prestigious designations.

The award, which is open to any car-repair center owner in the U.S., Canada and Mexico, recognizes just one independent tire dealer each year who has made an especially significant contribution to the community. Katz was recognized on Monday, Nov. 1, prior to the opening of the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas.

“Ron has an impressive record of giving back,” said Tire Business Editor Don Detore. “The independent panel that judged the candidates factored in the blood drives at his shops and Teacher of the Month sponsorships with local schools. In addition, he has taken a proactive role in hurricane relief efforts—in 2019, when Dorian hit the Bahamas, and 2017, when Maria devastated Puerto Rico.” In total, Katz and his team delivered supplies totaling $100,000 for the two hurricane relief initiatives.

When Federal employees were furloughed in 2019, Katz offered them free services. His team recently acquired, repaired, and donated a car to the Sickle Cell Foundation of Palm Beach County and Treasure Coast. He staged a fundraiser for the wife of one of his favorite entertainers, who had esophageal cancer, raising close to $10,000. This year, he ran COVID-19 vaccination drives in two of his shops

“We are proud to have Ron as member of the Midas family—and excited he has received this recognition,” said Midas VP & GM Lenny Valentino. “Ron has clearly taken the ‘Midas Fixes More than Just Cars’ commitment to heart and is making an impact.”

“Giving back just feels like the right thing to do,“ said Katz, who opened his first store in 2016 and two years later was named Franchisee of the Year. “If I could, I would do it full time. Like most people, I’ve had good times in my life and tough times when I would have liked someone to help me. So it just feels good to be in a position to offer assistance.”

In addition to receiving the award, Katz earned a $2,500 donation from Tire Business to his charity of choice: Saint Jude‘s Children’s Hospital. “I chose Saint Jude‘s because I like what it stands for,” he said. “St. Jude’s makes sure that when a child is sick, the parents never have to pay for the hospital stay. I cannot think of a better or more compassionate charity.”

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About Midas

Midas is one of the world’s largest providers of automotive services, offering brake, tire, maintenance, exhaust, steering and suspension services at 2,100 franchised and licensed Midas stores in 16 countries, including nearly 1,200 in the United States and Canada. For more information visit midas.com.

Embracing the Norwegian Concept of Friluftsliv

Terri Marshall
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Embracing the Norwegian Concept of Friluftsliv


Reluctantly awaking from my peaceful slumber at my Trondheim hotel, I wondered why anyone would get up so early to hike through the woods on a chilly morning. My new Norwegian friend, Lisbeth, assured me the experience warranted the sleep sacrifice.
Renowned chef, Mikael Forselius greeted us at the edge of the forest. “Ready to forage for chanterelles?” he asked. Never having foraged for anything outside of the grocery store, I accepted the basket he offered and followed him into the woods intrigued. Emerging a couple of hours later with a basketful of the coveted mushrooms, I felt a sense of renewal. Not only had I been introduced to foraging, but I also began to understand the Norwegian-born concept of “friluftsliv” or free air life.


The next morning, Lisbeth and I set out on a berry-picking adventure. Hiking along a portion of one of Norway’s Pilgrimage Paths, we searched for blueberries and the delicious cloudberries found in arctic climates. Free to roam, we picked the berries on farmland as well as in the woods. As an American accustomed to fences erected to keep trespassers out, freely walking onto private farmland both surprised and thrilled me—more exposure to friluftsliv!

Mushroom picking in Norway. Photo by Lisbeth Fallon.

What is Friluftsliv?


Norwegian playwright and poet Henrik Ibsen popularized the term friluftsliv (pronounced free-loofts-live) in the 1850s when he used it to describe the value of spending time in nature for spiritual and physical wellbeing. When I initially heard about free air life, my mind immediately conjured up images of people hiking frozen glaciers, swimming across the fjords and scaling mountains of terrifying heights. If that’s your cup of tea, go for it, but picking mushrooms or berries supplies a touch of friluftsliv too. Basically, just get outside and breathe the fresh air nature provides.

The 1957 Outdoor Recreation Act provides residents of all Scandinavian countries the freedom to roam—a concept that dovetails nicely with friluftsliv. Simple rules include respecting nature, wildlife and inhabitants. Want to pitch a tent or sleep under the stars? Go for it, just make sure you keep at least 500 feet away from the nearest inhabited house or cabin. If you want to spend a second night, seek permission from the landowner.


Embracing Friluftsliv! Photo by Terri Marshall

Friluftsliv in Every Season

A year-round way of life, friluftsliv continues through the winter snows. Norwegians pile on the layers, add crampons to their hiking boots or strap on their cross-country skis and keep moving. As they say in Norway, “There’s no bad weather, only bad clothing.”
My fascination with friluftsliv followed me home to New York City. Often seeking an escape from the incessant honking horns and shrieking sirens of the city, I lace up my sneakers and lose myself in Riverside Park for a walk, stopping to smell the flowers in springtime or take photos of colorful autumn leaves.

When possible, I venture outside the city for a hike. Like my Norwegian friends, I continue these excursions through the winter months adding layers for warmth and strapping on my crampons to hike through the snow. I’m beginning to understand why Norwegians often rank among the happiest people on earth!

Hiking through Winter – Norwegian Style! Photo by Greg Holder

Dolittle (2020)

Selby Proctor
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Dolittle (2020)

Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FEf412bSPLs 

Dr. John Dolittle lives in solitude behind the high walls of his lush manor in 19th-century England. His only companionship comes from an array of exotic animals, to which he speaks daily. But when young Queen Victoria becomes gravely ill, the eccentric doctor and his furry friends embark on an epic adventure to a mythical island to find the cure. 

Screen on the Green is an outdoor movie experience. Join us at 6:30 p.m. on November 12th, before the start of the movie, for family-friendly trivia. The winner will receive a special Screen on the Green VIP prize package! 

For all City of West Palm Beach events, patrons should follow any applicable CDC guidelines. Blankets and chairs are recommended for Clematis by Night, Screen on the Green, and Sunday on the Waterfront.  

Parking is available in City garages, and the Banyan and Evernia garages are the closest to the events. For more info, head to www.wpb.org/events

(Veterans Day) Motown and More (Motown)

Selby Proctor
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(Veterans Day) Motown and More (Motown)

Motown and More is one of the hottest Motown tributes in town. This dynamic group of musicians and vocalists has opened for many celebrities and popped up everywhere on the local scene.

This edition of Clematis by Night will include a special tribute to military veterans on November 11th.

For all City of West Palm Beach events, patrons should follow any applicable CDC guidelines. Blankets and chairs are recommended for Clematis by Night, Screen on the Green, and Sunday on the Waterfront.  

Parking is available in City garages, and the Banyan and Evernia garages are the closest to the events. For more info, head to www.wpb.org/events

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