the 2022 Great Charity Challenge, Presented by Fidelity Investments®
What are some of the key takeaways from living over a year through a pandemic?
Photo: Equestrian Sport Productions
For the 2021 Great Charity Challenge presented by Fidelity Investments® (GCC), an event founded by the father/daughter team of Mark and Paige Bellissimo in 2009, COVID-19 highlighted that non-profit organizations and civil society stood at the core of our community’s resilience.
To respond to the devastating effects of COVID-19, the last edition of the GCC in February 2021 shifted a majority of its funding priorities towards local non-profits who were directly supporting and assisting the most vulnerable and affected populations in Palm Beach County. Thanks to the support of 64 donors and countless brave riders, 49 charities were able to put $1.1 million to work directly in our backyards, ensuring that many children, families, and seniors were able to be fed, keep a roof over their heads, and have access to the most basic services during the pandemic.
Through the generous support of the equestrian industry and the local community, the GCC has acted as a catalyst for charitable giving over the last 12 years, distributing $15.9 million to 276 Palm Beach County non-profit organizations.
The event will return for its 13th year on Saturday, February 5, 2022 at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC), home of the Winter Equestrian Festival, with the goal to distribute an additional $1+ million dollar purse to local charities.
If you know of a deserving Palm Beach County-based charity, please invite them to visit https://gcc.coth.com/page/participate-as-a-non-profit for additional information regarding application requirements and the event’s unique selection process.
The application process for the 2022 GCC is exclusively open from Monday, October 25, 2021 through 5:00 PM on Monday, November 15, 2021.
At stake? A chance to win up to $100,000!
“We are extremely grateful for the continued support of our generous donors and sponsors,” commented Executive Director, Anne Caroline Valtin. “In addition to fund disbursements, the GCC’s strategy involves capacity building and enabling invaluable partnerships, as well as concentrating on amplifying the event’s impact. The pandemic has taught us that moving forward, we must focus on supporting those who provide immediate needs in the community, but also those who work towards long-term, sustainable change.”
Following the format of previous years and to guarantee transparency, up to twenty pre-vetted organizations will be randomly selected via the event’s famous lottery style drawings during the months of December and January. Additional smaller grants will also be awarded via a random selection process to non-profits who pass the GCC’s vetting. These grants will range between $1,000 and $10,000.
To be eligible to participate, applicants must, at a minimum, demonstrate that they are a 501c3, serve residents of Palm Beach County, have a physical presence, commit to spending a minimum of 75% of funding received in the County, and have a non-discrimination statement and/or policy.
For additional event information, including information about the application process, donations, and sponsorship opportunities, please visit www.greatcharitychallenge.com. We also invite you to join us on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date with our latest news and happenings via Facebook and Instagram.
About Fidelity Investments
Fidelity’s mission is to inspire better futures and deliver better outcomes for the customers and businesses we serve. With assets under administration of $11.2 trillion, including discretionary assets of $4.3 trillion as of August 31, 2021, we focus on meeting the unique needs of a diverse set of customers: helping more than 38 million people invest their own life savings, 22,000 businesses manage employee benefit programs, as well as providing more than 13,500 wealth management firms and institutions with investment and technology solutions to drive growth. Privately held for more than 75 years, Fidelity employs more than 52,000 associates who are focused on the long-term success of our customers. For more information about Fidelity Investments, visit http://www.fidelity.com/about-fidelity/our-company.
About the Winter Equestrian Festival
The Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF), known as the “Winter Equestrian Capital of the World,” is the world’s largest and longest running equestrian festival in the world, located in Wellington, Florida. The equestrian industry adds more than $100 million to Palm Beach County’s economy each year and provides more 900 jobs for the area. WEF is the proving ground for the Olympic Equestrian sports of show jumping and dressage. WEF is run by Equestrian Sport Productions, which also operates the International Polo Club. For more information on WEF, please visit http://pbiec.coth.com.
Delicious and delectable. That’s the best way to describe the taste of the 28 types of pies which are created, baked, and sold by Lisa’s Pie Shop, a free-standing retail outlet in Atlanta, Indiana, a small town located about an hour’s drive north Indianapolis. If you like pie for dessert, then you will be spoiled and delighted by the wide range of pies on sale at Lisa’s Pie Shop. Some of the 28 types of pies include apple, cherry, blueberry, raspberry, black raspberry, strawberry, rhubarb, peach, pumpkin, pecan, chocolate cream, coconut cream, and sugar cream, which is Indiana’s official state pie.
For more than 30 years, the husband-and-wife team of Jim and Lisa Sparks have been working side by side in order to meet the dessert demands of their ever-expanding and forever-loyal list of clients and customers. They have been married for nearly 40 years. Clearly, a couple that makes pies together, stays together.
Truth be told, Lisa is in charge of making the pies, but Jim helps by ordering the supplies, picking up the supplies, selling the pies, collecting the money, and being the face of the ‘franchise.’ Clearly, everybody knows about Lisa, but everybody knows Jim, who also helps get the ball rolling, so to speak, every day by helping with the foundation of every pie.
“Jim makes the dough for every crust and helps pour the cream,” said Lisa. “He does a great job.”
When asked what is the favorite pie of their clients, Lisa answers that question by checking the calendar.
“Our favorite pie is always based on which fruits are freshest and in season,” said Lisa. “Naturally, pumpkin, pecan, and sugar cream pies are the top sellers during the holidays – Thanksgiving and Christmas.”
And, according to Lisa, some of the more popular pies are the combination pies such as strawberry-rhubarb and blueberry-peach.
Simply put, the key to the success of Lisa’s Pie Shop is the never-ending attention to detail by the ownership.
“We make every pie from scratch and we pay attention to the quality of every pie,” said Lisa. “Paying attention to details pays off for us.”
One of those important details has to do with Lisa’s artistic abilities.
Just before a pie is placed in the oven, Lisa draws an outline of the shape of the fruit which is inside the pie, on the crust. This allows Jim to properly identify the pie when it’s ready to be removed from the oven and placed on the sales shelf.
While Lisa’s Pie Shop is located about an hour’s drive north of Indianapolis, just off U.S. 31, one can easily feel that this storefront is located in the middle of nowhere, but Lisa disagrees.
“I think we are in the middle of everywhere,” countered Lisa. “We have regular customers from all over the country.”
And, she has a good point, as customers come from far and wide to buy a pie at Lisa’s Pie Shop. These pies are especially popular for football fans in the fall who go tailgating prior to high school, college (Notre Dame, Purdue, Indiana, Ball State, among others) and pro football (Indianapolis Colts) games.
“On some Saturdays in the fall, we’ll open up early to accommodate fans who want to get a head start on their tailgating festivities,” added Lisa. “For many Notre Dame fans heading north for home games, they travel along U.S. 31 up to South Bend, so we right along the way.”
It’s worth noting that when Colts fans want a pie for their Sunday tailgating experience, they have to buy the pie in advance since Lisa’s Pie Shop is closed on Sundays.
“The Colts fans will call ahead and pick up the pie early, on a Friday or a Saturday, so they’ll have it on Sunday,” noted Lisa.
It’s no surprise that the pies from Lisa’s Pie Shop have won many awards and been featured in the press.
According to Lisa, USA Today has included Lisa’s Pie Shop in a story on the top ten pie shops in the U.S. The Food Channel and the Travel Channel have also produced stories on Lisa’s Pie Shop.
“Over the years, we’ve also won numerous state awards and many ribbons,” added Lisa.
When it comes to paying for your pie at Lisa’s Pie Shop, there are two forms of payment: cash or check. That’s the way it always has been and always will be.
And, it’s worth noting that Jim and Lisa Sparks acquire their fruit from many different locations. For instance, the strawberries come from California, the apples are grown in Washington and Indiana, the black raspberries are harvested in Oregon, the cherries are sourced in Michigan, and the peaches come from Georgia, South Carolina, and Michigan.
Even though Jim and Lisa operate their business like a well-oiled machine, there are often issues with getting what they need when they need it.
“Every year, there are supply issues with fruits,” said Jim.
In addition to making sure every pie is made to the highest possible quality, Jim and Lisa also monitor the shelf life of every pie.
“We don’t keep a pie on the shelf for more than 24 hours,” said Jim.
But, he also admits that no pies go unsold.
Those pies which are not sold within a 24-hour time period are then repackaged and sold in another form. Lisa is able to transfer pies into 16-ounce Mason jars. They are referred to as Pies in a Jar, but every jar is only big enough to hold half of a pie.
“It’s great to sell a day-old pie,” said Lisa. “You just heat and eat.”
As you would expect of a small business like Lisa’s Pie Shop, Jim and Lisa rely on their customers to help promote their existence and their pies.
“We let word of mouth promote us,” adds Jim.
And, Lisa Sparks is thankful for her regular customers.
“We would be nothing without our loyal customers from both inside and outside the state of Indiana,” notes Lisa.
And, it’s fair to say that Jim and Lisa Sparks’ customers also have a mutual appreciation for the wide variety of pies prepared for them to buy and try throughout the year.
If, for some reason, you don’t like pies, then Lisa’s Pie Shop does make three types of cookies (chocolate chip, Snicker doodles, and M & M), Mexican wedding cakes, four types of bread (pumpkin, banana, blueberry/zucchini, and pineapple/zucchini), pumpkins rolls, Bundt cakes, and four varieties of quiche (ham & cheese, spinach, bacon, and Western).
But, if you have never tried one of Lisa’s pies, I encourage you to do so. When you try it, you will like it. I did and I know you will, too. By the way, I had the cherry pie and I’m headed back for more! I’ll see you at Lisa’s Pie Shop.
This place won’t be difficult to find because as Lisa says, “We’re in the middle of everywhere.”
Mounts Botanical Garden of Palm Beach County to Host 13 Healthy, Fun, & Informative Events in November, Including Plant-a-Palooza Fall Plant Sale, Qi Gong, Watercolor Classes, and Monthly Dogs’ Day in the Garden
+ Watercolor at the Garden – Nov. 2, 9, 16,
+ Wednesday Walk & Plant Talk – Nov. 3, 10, 17
+ Qi Gong – Nov. 3, 10, 17
+ Plant-a-Palooza Fall Plant Sale – Nov. 6-7
+ Moai Tour with Artist Dennis MacDonald – Nov. 12, 19
+ Dogs’ Day in the Garden – Nov. 14
(West Palm Beach, FL – October 21, 2021) Friends of the Mounts Botanical Garden will be hosting 13 family-friendly open-air events in November, including the always popular Plant-a-Palooza Fall Plant Sale, watercolor classes, Wednesday Walk & Plant Talks, Qi Gong, and the monthly Dogs’ Day in the Garden.
“Palm Beach County’s oldest and largest botanical garden is inviting garden enthusiasts, plant lovers, and proud ‘green-thumbers’ of all ages to come out and enjoy some of our many safe, healthy and happy horticultural activities in November, and visit our exciting new permanent exhibition, Moai at Mounts Botanical Garden,” says Curator-Director RochelleWolberg.
November 2, 9, 16
Watercolor at the Garden
Tuesday, 10:00 am to 12:30 pm $20 for members; $25 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission) Registration is required; class size is limited to 15 adults.
Share your love of art and nature with fellow art enthusiasts. Each class begins with an instructor-led Nature Walk for inspiration and to capture reference photos to use in class. The group will then move indoors, where Carl Stoveland will start with a quick demo topic then assist participants in choosing a subject and getting started on a watercolor. Bring pencils, pens, paints sketchpad or watercolor pad, (or journal) and your favorite photographic device (i.e., cell phone camera or tablet). Classes are open to adults only at all levels, from novice to experienced artist, and will be tailored to each student.
Note: The previously announced Watercolor classes scheduled for Thursday, November 4 and 18, have been canceled.
$5 for members; $15 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission)
Registration is required; tour size is limited to 15 adults.
Come early to enjoy the morning quite while reconnecting and recharging with nature. Experience the beauty of the Garden and note the changes each week. Walk for fitness and for fun, stopping along the way to admire the plants or enjoy a stretch or two.
$10 for members; $15 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission)
Registration is required; class size is limited to 15 adults.
Relieve stress and increase your metabolism, flexibility, and strength. Qi Gong (pronounced chee-gong) is an ancient Chinese exercise and healing technique. The exercises include simple, slow movements (which mimic nature), meditation, and focused breathing—similar to Tai Chi. Each class is limited to the first 10-15 people to register. Classes will be inside, led by Roxanne Cumberland.
FREE for Mounts members and children 5 and under; $15 for nonmember adults; $12 for seniors, active military, and college students with ID; $7 for children, 6-17
Reconnect with Gardening as an estimated 60 vendors, spread throughout the Garden, offer a wide range of plants, shrubs, trees, garden furniture, accessories, baskets, and fine crafts. Visitors can stroll and shop in a relaxed environment, while looking for Bonsai, bamboo, bromeliads, butterfly plants, citrus, ferns, Florida natives, flowering trees, ginger, heliconia, orchids & supplies, pitcher plants, plumeria, roses, succulents, vines and more. The Mounts Botanical Nursery and Vintage Thrift Shop will also be open with a great variety of plants and unique treasures for the home and garden.
November 12, 19
Moai Tour with Artist Dennis MacDonald
Friday, 10 am to 11 am
FREE for Mounts members; $12 for nonmember adults
Registration is required; group size is limited to 20 adults.
Experience the awe and wonder of Moai at Mounts Botanical Garden. Artist Dennis MacDonald will offer an insider’s tour of the moai project, its background and the processes used to create the statues as an artistic tribute to the Rapa Nui (Easter Island) culture.
FREE for members and children 5 and under; $12 for nonmember adults; $10 for seniors, active military, and college students with ID; $5 for children 6-1. Ticket includes full Garden admission.
This dog-and-family-friendly monthly event is held throughout the Garden. Bring your beloved pooch to enjoy a relaxed garden stroll. There are many great spots to capture family photos for posting online with #mountsbotanicalgarden.
Guidelines:
+ Non-retractable leashes only; retractable leashes are not permitted.
+ No more than one dog per adult will be admitted.
+ Rabies vaccination must be current.
+ Visitors should bring their own and water treats for the puppies.
Bringing the awe and wonder of Easter Island to West Palm Beach is this new permanent installation of three imposing moai statues, replicas of the iconic monolithic, human figures located on Rapa Nui, Chile. Designed by artist Dennis MacDonald with great attention to authenticity and detail, each of the statues is made of solid, reinforced, poured concrete and has been stained to create a weathered appearance. The larger moai stands 20 feet tall and wears a “hat” known as pukao, two additional pukao rest on the ground.
The Moai at Mounts Botanical Garden installation is included with regular Garden admission:
+ FREE for Mounts members and children 5 and under; $12 for adults; $10 for seniors, college students and military with ID; $5 for ages 6-17
+ Tickets available for purchase at the gate.
Garden hours in November are Tuesday-Sunday, 9 am to 4 pm.
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 16-acre tropical oasis will see an acclaimed collection of 25 unique garden areas containing more than 5,000 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.
Meet acclaimed writer, lecturer and storyteller Harvey E. Oyer III at Wellington Historical Society’s upcoming Lunch & Learn. The event takes place at 11:45 a.m. on Thursday Nov. 18th at Wellington National Golf Club.
Oyer will share stories of Palm Beach County’s history, including some insight about how Wellington and the surrounding western communities came into being.
A fifth-generation native Floridian, Oyer is as much a part of local history as he is a lecturer on the topic. He is a descendant of pioneer settler Captain Hannibal Dillingham Pierce, one of the first non-native Americans to settle in Southeast Florida, arriving in 1872. His great-grand uncle, Charles William Pierce, homesteaded a portion of Hypoluxo Island, worked as a lighthouse keeper at the Jupiter lighthouse, and served for years as a one of the famed “Barefoot Mailmen.” He wrote a manuscript that, years after his death, was the basis for “Pioneer Life in South Florida,” considered an authoritative work on the area’s pioneer history.
Oyer himself has written or contributed to numerous books and articles on Florida and Florida’s history. His children’s book series, “The Adventures of Charlie Pierce,” is based on his great-grand uncle’s life. He is a noted writer and lecturer on topics ranging from law, history and archaeology to international laws regarding antiquities trafficking.
Oyer was born in Boynton Beach. He attended the University of Florida where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics. He won a Rotary Ambassadorial Scholarship and studied graduate economics at the Australian National University in Canberra, Australia. He graduated with a Master of Philosophy in Archaeology from the University of Cambridge in England and a Juris Doctorate with honors from the University of Florida College of Law. He is a partner with the law firm of Shutts & Bowen LLP.
Tickets for the event are $30 for members and $40 for non-members, and include lunch. Get tickets at Wellington Historical Society’s website, www.wellingtonhistoricalsociety.org.
My State MLS Welcomes New Vice President of Marketing & Communications
R. Michael Brown brings communications, public relations and marketing innovation at major businesses and non-profits to My State MLS
Jupiter, FL ― October 20, 2021 ― My State MLS is happy to announce that R. Michael Brown has joined the organization as Vice President of Marketing & Communications.
He was most recently a consultant at R. Michael Brown LLC with clients including My State MLS, South Florida Agent Magazine, French Wine Merchant in the Town of Palm Beach, iCOM, Minto Communities and more.
Brown was the director of communication for the prestigious Town of Palm Beach Civic Association where he founded and led the newsroom of the popular “This Week in Palm Beach” e-news and video newscast known as Palm Beach TV. That content marketing program led to record views and membership levels for the organization.
A resident of Wellington, FL, Brown enjoys road cycling, surfing and spending time with his wife and children. Brown previously cycled competitively and is a former certified volunteer U.S. Olympic cycling coach.
“We are very happy to have Mike onboard,” said Dawn Pfaff, president and CEO of My State MLS. “His proven leadership in helping organizations innovate in multimedia communications to attract viewers, increase leads and sales and launch products and services into markets adds a fresh new dimension to My State MLS.”
Brown has marketing and communications experience in multiple industries that include the director of marketing and public relations at DiVosta, Del Webb and Pulte Homes for the state of Florida, where his leadership led to over 4,200 home sales per year in 80 communities. As marketing and communications manager at Motorola Solutions he launched Nextel and steered it to win Product of the Decade from Business Week Magazine. Plus, he was a pioneer in Internet and multimedia communications at the IBM Personal Computer Division.
“My State MLS is a disruptor in the real estate market,” said Brown. “We offer a nationwide multiple listing service for real estate pros that want to list properties at competitive rates, increase their territory or need to market properties across boundaries to get more leads and sales. Our service is perfect for today’s agent and broker in the current and future environment, and I’m thrilled to be a part of this awesome team to grow market share. Plus, we have been working on a content platform that will be in an announcement that I can’t wait for you to see.”
About My State MLS
In 2009, Dawn Pfaff foundedNY State MLS, a full multiple listings service (MLS) serving all 62 New York counties. Born from a desire to create a common-sense MLS solution, New York’s statewide Multiple Listing Service quickly garnered agents across the state, as well as nationwide attention and demand for the company’s services. In 2015,My State MLS, the first nationwide Multiple Listing Service of its kind, was created and today it has agents in all 50 states and Puerto Rico. LA State MLS debuted in October 2020. In December 2020, Pfaff and My State MLS launched MHAuthority.com, a premier website for manufactured housing listings. In addition to its MLSs, My State MLS’s services and products have expanded to include direct feeds to all major sites (Zillow, Trulia, Homes.com, Realtor.com and ListHub), international syndication, IDX feed, branded virtual tours, access to Professional Search, website design, private MLS administration and much more. For more information visit, www.mystatemls.com.
Palm Beach Photographic Centre Announces Winners of 25th Annual MEMBERS’ SHOW
Juried Exhibition Runs Through Nov. 30
Best in Show: John Edwards of Singer Island, FL
1st Place: Elizabeth Bush of Glendale, CA
2nd Place: Craig Dietrich of Hobe Sound, FL
Honorable Mention: Louis Mark of Palm Beach Gardens
West Palm Beach, FL – October 19, 2021) Fatima NeJame, president and chief executive officer of the world renowned Palm Beach Photographic Centre (PBPC), today announced the prize winners of its current presentation:
25th Annual MEMBERS’ SHOW
Juried Exhibition Runs Through Nov. 30
The MEMBERS’ SHOW 2021 exhibition displays 99 stunning images from 38 member photographers, including 24 from Palm Beach County.
The Best In Show Award went to John Edwards from Singer Island, FL for his photograph Horsing Around. He received a cash prize of $950.
The First Place winner was Elizabeth Bush of Glendale, California for her untitled photo, Teddy’s Transit; while Second Place went to Craig Dietrich of Hobe Sound for his photo, I.C.U. Honorable mention goes to Louis Mark of Palm Beach Gardens for his photo, Sienna, Running to Her Dad.
1. Best In Show: John Edwards – Horsing Around2nd Place: Craig Dietrich – I.C.U.Honorable Mention: Louis Mark – Sienna, Running to Her Dad
Palm Beach Photographic Centre’s 25th Annual MEMBERS’ SHOW is a juried exhibition that showcases the work of its members, both inside the Photo Centre and on its Web site, www.workshop.org.
The Juror for the 25th Annual MEMBERS’ SHOW was Scott Mc Kiernan, a photojournalist who became a media industry pioneer and leader. Leadership of ZUMA Press, as well as decades of wide-ranging experience in photography, has proven to be instrumental in establishing the world’s largest independent editorial photo agency. In 1993, he launched the net’s first online downloadable database for editorial pictures. A quarter-century later, ZUMA is the agent to the world’s most respected photographers (3,000+), newspapers (300+), photo agencies (90+) and national wire services (30+) and over 50+ million images online moving 30K important images daily to every country in the world. 2016 Mc Kiernan won NPPA’s prestigious Jim Gordon Editor of the Year Award, for DOUBLEtruck Magazine and zReportage.com. Most recently, Mc Kiernan awarded a Society of Professional Journalists Picture Editor award and was a Communication Arts 2019 winner for his stellar photography of the 2018 Winter Olympics. He is a proud member of the Board of the Palm Beach Photographic Centre.
About the Palm Beach Photographic Centre:
The Photo Centre is located at the downtown City Center municipal complex at 415 Clematis Street in downtown West Palm Beach. Hours are 10 am to 5 pm. Monday through Saturday. For more information, please call 561.253.2600 or visit www.workshop.org or www.fotofusion.org.
The Palm Beach Photographic Centre is a non-profit organization dedicated to enriching life through the photographic arts. All donations are greatly appreciated at www.workshop.org/contrib.
In celebration of Jumpstart’s Read for the Record, Wellington will take part in the 2021 Literacy Coalition of Palm Beach County’s Read for the Record Virtual Event on Thursday, October 28, 2021.
Wellington’s Council has enlisted the help of community volunteers to record a virtual book reading of “Amy Wu and the Patchwork Dragon” by Kat Zhang, which will be shared with Village schools and learning centers. Wellington will also feature an English and Spanish book reading on its Read for the Record webpage, along with activities for children and parents.
“Wellington is proud to once again take part in this national initiative to promote the importance of building early literacy and language skills for every child,” said Village Manager Jim Barnes. “This year, we recognize that things still look and feel differently than they have before and we are committed to meeting our young residents, where they are: in classrooms, libraries, and homes across our Village.”
Jumpstart’s Read for the Record is a national campaign launched over a decade ago to address the educational inequities that leave too many children unprepared for kindergarten. Each year, Jumpstart selects a campaign book that fosters language and social-emotional development, honors the diversity in our world, has a strong narrative, and appeals to young children. That book is read across the country and around the world by adults and young readers on Read for the Record day.
As another way to stay informed on the latest news and updates from the Village, residents are invited to sign up for Wellington information and updates at www.wellingtonfl.gov/Newsletter.
(West Palm Beach, Fla.) Monday, October 18, 2021-Nonprofits First recently held the Fifth Annual Hats Off Nonprofit Awards at the Kravis Center in the Cohen Pavilion. The evening celebrated nonprofit organizations in Palm Beach County who contribute and dedicate themselves to improving and strengthening our community. Chaired by Natalie M. Alvarez, of Key Private Bank, the sold-out event themed ‘Hats Off, Masks On’ filled the room with attendees wearing hats of all shapes and sizes, from French berets to cowboy hats and top hats to hand-made themed hats. The surprise emcee was Bill Bone who inspired the audience with his eloquent words saying “Let the season begin” as this event was the official kick-off to season in Palm Beach County. Music from nonprofit, Digital Vibez set the tone with popular beats to move and shake as people made their way to the stage to accept their awards.
“Our goal was to celebrate together safely and thanks to our generous sponsors and enthusiastic nonprofit community we were able to do it. Congratulations to all the Nominees and Honorees, they are truly inspiring.” said Jessica Cecere, CEO of Nonprofits First.
The honorees are:
Nonprofit of the Year: Small-Dress for Success Palm Beaches Medium- Speak Up for Kids of Palm Beach County Large-Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County Nonprofit Innovation- Community Partners of South Florida Nonprofit Volunteer of the Year- Marsha Burkhardt, 211 Palm Beach/Treasure Coast Hats Off to Heroes Award-Dr. Seth Bernstein, United Way of Palm Beach County Nonprofit MVP of the Year-Sara Bonhomme, Arc of Palm Beach County Nonprofit Professional of the Year-Jacquie Shorter, Feed the Hungry Pantry of Palm Beach County Community Collaborators Award-YWCA of Palm Beach County & FAU’s Community Health Center Nonprofit Executive of the Year-Kimberly McCarten, Arc of Palm Beach County Lifetime Achievement-Rev. Pam Cahoon People’s Choice-Compass LGBTQ Community Center Best Hat:-Center for Family Services “Family Game Night” Best Mask:-Peggy Adams Animal Rescue
Carrie Bradburn/CAPEHART
Funds raised from the evening benefit Nonprofits First educational programs. These programs focus on professional development, leadership, and training that nonprofit community volunteers and employees need to lead and succeed.
About Nonprofits First, Inc.:
Since 2005, Nonprofits First, Inc. has been the leading resource for strengthening the administrative and operational capacity of nonprofit organizations in the community. Comprised of experienced professionals, consultants and volunteers, the vision of Nonprofits First is a community in which all nonprofits achieve their highest level of desired impact. For more information, visit www.nonprofitsfirst.org.
The return of Spookyville and new Halloween event this weekend
Who: South Florida Fair & Palm Beach County Expositions, Inc.
What: Spookyville, one of the best attended family-friendly Halloween events in the Palm Beaches. Ideal for children 10 and younger, it’s returning to its normal format after being hosted as a drive-through event last year due to the pandemic.
Where: Yesteryear Village at the South Florida Fairgrounds, 9067 Southern Blvd., West Palm Beach
When: October 22-24, and October 29-31. Hours are 5 to 9 p.m. on Fridays and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Admission gates will close 30 minutes before the event’s closing time.
Admission: The cost is $10 per person and free for kids two years old and younger. Tickets may be purchased online at www.southfloridafair.com.
Details: Spookyville is known as one of the best old-fashioned Halloween options in the area, offering a full array of safe trick or treats, live entertainment, a kiddie train, two mechanical rides, a fun house, costume contests, games, food trucks, animals and more. Kids are encouraged to attend in costume. A costume parade will start on Sundays at 1 p.m.
Costumes and Cocktails – a new event!
Who/What: Costumes and Cocktails (for those 21 years and older). Hundreds of local and out-of-town zombies, vampires, and super-heroes are expected to take over Yesteryear Village and turn this normally peaceful park into the zaniest place in the city. Includes DJ Cole for music and dancing, trick or treating, food trucks, cocktails and a costume contest with games and a top cash prize of $500. Special performances by “Right on Key,” Orlando’s premier a cappella group. Featured numerous times on ABC’s Good Morning America, this diverse, hip, young group of vibrant personalities has brought fun and the ‘wow’ factor to many events. ( https://www.facebook.com/rightonkey)
When: 8 p.m.-11 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 23.
Where: Yesteryear Village at the South Florida Fairgrounds, 9067 Southern Blvd., West Palm Beach
Cost: $35 per person
Sponsors for both events: Storm Tight Windows, Florida Dairy Farmers, Absolute Marketing, Lion Country Safari and Baptist Health.
Tickets for both events may be purchased online at www.southfloridafair.com or at the gate. For more information, call Lorie Stinson at 561-790-5245 or visit the fair’s website, www.southfloridafair.com.
FAU Harbor Branch Dives into 50-year Celebration with Exclusive Reveal of Famed Submersible, Special Events
FORT PIERCE, Fla. (October 20, 2021) – Florida Atlantic University Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute will host a series of special events to celebrate its 50th anniversary with “Ocean Science for a Better World®,” beginning on Monday, Nov. 1.
The main highlight of the series is the first public display of the historic, world-renowned Johnson-Sea-Link (JSL)II submersible at the Elliott Museum in Stuart. Imagined and built in the 1970s by famed inventor and Harbor Branch visionary Edwin A. Link, the JSL II ran manned, deep-sea dive exploration excursions going to depths of 900 meters. Its sister-sub, the JSL I, is displayed at the FAU Harbor Branch campus. Throughout the course of three decades, more than 9,000 dives were made between both submersibles, enabling spectacular discoveries of new species through a never-before-seen perspective.
“FAU Harbor Branch was founded in the spirit of ocean exploration to unveil the mysteries of the deep,” said Jim Sullivan, Ph.D., executive director of FAU Harbor Branch. “We are thrilled to partner with the Elliott Museum for our first-ever JSL public exhibit and to host events and tours at FAU Harbor Branch throughout this year to share our incredible story with the public. To this day, the institute relentlessly pursues innovative ocean research, while providing top-tier educational programs that will lead us to solve the most pressing issues facing our oceans.”
All events are open to the public, with select events running through April 2022.
50th Anniversary Outreach Program Series
Monday, Nov. 1 through Saturday, April 30, 2022
Ocean Discovery Visitors Center, 5600 N U.S. Hwy. 1, Fort Pierce
FAU Harbor Branch offers a variety of opportunities for the public to visit its world-renowned oceanographic institute, take a behind-the-scenes look at cutting-edge research, and connect with experts. In recognition of the 50th anniversary, special historical content will be highlighted during tour programs and in new exhibitions at the Ocean Discovery Visitors Center.
‘Celebrating 50 Years of Ocean Science’ Lecture Series
Wednesdays, Jan. 12 through April 6, 2022
FAU Harbor Branch, 5600 N U.S. Hwy. 1, Fort Pierce
This year’s lecture series celebrates the 50th anniversary with featured speakers and presentation topics that highlight the institute’s historic events and signature research programs that contribute to ocean science on a global scale.
‘Celebrating 50 Years of Ocean Science for a Better World®: Exhibition of famed Johnson-Sea-Link II Submersible’
Monday, Nov. 1 through Saturday, April 30, 2022
The Elliott Museum, 825 NE Ocean Blvd., Stuart
FAU Harbor Branch has partnered with the Elliott Museum to share a one-of-a-kind exhibition with its community and visitors from around the world. This display will include an up-close look at the famed Johnson-Sea-Link submersible and highlights from Harbor Branch’s rich history and current research. Special lectures and activities also will take place at the museum during the exhibition.
‘Celebrating 50 Years of Ocean Science for a Better World®’ Lecture with Jim Masterson, Ph.D.
Wednesday, Nov. 17 at 7 p.m. The Elliott Museum, 825 NE Ocean Blvd., Stuart
Located along the Treasure Coast, FAU Harbor Branch is a leader in marine science, engineering, conservation and education. Founded in the spirit of ocean exploration to unveil the mysteries of the deep, FAU Harbor Branch prioritizes solution-oriented research that addresses some of the major issues affecting coastal and ocean zones both locally and internationally. Since its inception, the institute has been instrumental in affecting change in these areas through a deep understanding of critical species, fragile habitats, and ecosystem dynamics. Join the dive into the rich history of its founding, the fascinating research taking place today and learn how to get involved. The presentation will be followed by a Q&A session, as well as an interpretive tour of FAU Harbor Branch’s special 50th Anniversary exhibition at the Elliott Museum.
‘Deep Sea Discoveries and Adventures – Highlights of Dives with the Johnson-Sea-Link Submersibles’ Lecture with John Reed
Wednesday, Dec. 15 at 7 p.m.
The Elliott Museum, 825 NE Ocean Blvd., Stuart
Edwin Link was co-founder of HBOI and inventor of the Deep Diver, the first-ever submersible where a person could dive out (lockout) to depths of 700 feet. Link also was behind the invention of the Johnson-Sea-Link (JSL) submersible in 1970, which was the only lockout sub with a clear acrylic bubble allowing nearly 360 degree visibility. From 1971 to 2010, the two JSL submersibles completed nearly 9,000 dives down to depths of a half-mile and were conducted by hundreds of researchers from dozens of universities and agencies. John Reed is a research professor at FAU Harbor Branch and has studied deep-water coral reefs and biomedical research for the past 44 years. He will show guests some of his highlights and discoveries with stunning photographs and videos, including items from the early years of the JSL program were the initial 1975 discovery and subsequent decades-long studies using lockout dives to 300 feet of the Oculina deep-water coral reefs off Florida’s east coast. This later resulted in the first deep-water coral marine protected area in the world. Highlights also include attacks by swordfish, dives into giant sinkholes off the Florida Keys, encounters with sharks and Mola Mola sunfish, a dive into an unknown underwater volcano, and photos of new or unknown species that had never been seen alive before in their natural habitat.
‘Algal Blooms in Florida’s Coastal and Inland Waters’ Lecture with Malcolm McFarland, Ph.D.
Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2022, at 7 p.m. The Elliott Museum, 825 NE Ocean Blvd., Stuart
Microscopic algae, also known as phytoplankton, are essential components of healthy aquatic ecosystems but some species form harmful algal blooms (HABs) that threaten ecosystem stability, human health, and local economies. The frequency and intensity of these HABs appear to be increasing due to nutrient pollution and other human-induced modifications to the natural environment. This talk will focus on the multiple HAB species that are found in South Florida and current efforts to better understand their bloom dynamics.
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, 111 E. Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale campus
This course explores the science of ocean circulation, why there are powerful currents in specific parts of the world, how weather may affect currents and deployed systems, and the potential renewable energy that may be harnessed. The regulatory challenges will be presented, since these, as with terrestrial power systems, may pose significant difficulties to the implementation of offshore power production sites. Examples of prototype systems and ongoing research at FAU will be showcased including graphical representations of oceanographic features and theory, previously developed technologies, and potential solutions to the many challenges of harnessing a major ocean current. William Baxley is the chief engineer of the Southeast Marine Renewable Energy Center at FAU Harbor Branch.
‘FAU Harbor Branch – 50 Years of Ocean Science for a Better World®’ Lecture with Jim Sullivan, Ph.D. Tuesday, Jan. 25, 2022 at 3 p.m.
FAU Boca Campus, 777 Glades Road
Join us for a dive into the rich history of FAU Harbor Branch’s founding, the fascinating research taking place today and its investment in the next 50 years. Presented by Jim Sullivan, Ph.D., executive diector of FAU Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute, this program will highlight the innovative ocean research and its top-tier educational programs that will lead to the solving of the most pressing issues facing the world’s oceans. Founded in the spirit of ocean exploration to unveil the mysteries of the deep, FAU Harbor Branch prioritizes solution-oriented research that addresses some of the challenges affecting coastal and ocean zones both locally and internationally. Since its inception, the institute has been instrumental in affecting change in these areas through a deep understanding of key species, fragile habitats and ecosystem dynamics. Using visuals and anecdotes from the past, guests will learn about the visionary Edwin A. Link and his passion for ocean engineering and exploration which led to the establishment of Harbor Branch in 1971. Learn about FAU Harbor Branch’s principal areas of research: Marine Ecosystem Conservation, Aquaculture Innovation and Food Security, Ocean Health: Human Health and Technological Innovation and National Defense.
‘50 Years of Ocean Science for a Better World®’ Campus Tour
Tuesday, Feb. 22, 2022 at 8:30 a.m.
FAU Harbor Branch, 5600 N U.S. Hwy. 1, Fort Pierce
This unique opportunity to explore FAU Harbor Branch takes guests behind the scenes to better understand the significant research conducted there. This excursion includes transportation to the institute, a golf-cart tour that explores the 144-acre waterfront campus, a visit to the Exploration Command Center, and lunch. In celebration of the institute’s 50th anniversary, participants will hear historical highlights, learn about its cutting-edge research, view some of the exciting deep-sea creatures that have been encountered, and discover the impact this work has on everyday lives. Participants will see the iconic Johnson Sea Link deep-diving submersible and views of the Indian River Lagoon and Florida wildlife. Due to the VIP nature of this excursion, space is limited, so sign-up early.
Indian River Lagoon Symposium 2022 Thursday, Feb. 17 and Friday, Feb. 18, 2022 at 8:30 a.m.
FAU Harbor Branch, 5600 N U.S. Hwy. 1, Fort Pierce
The Indian River Lagoon (IRL) Symposium is a multi-institutional effort to provide a public forum for scientists, decision-makers, students, education and outreach professionals, as well as the interested public to discuss science and its application to the management of the IRL. In its 11th year and in celebration of FAU Harbor Branch’s milestone anniversary, the symposium will look at the progress and achievements that have significantly affected how the IRL is cared for and how to continue to do so for the next 50 years.
About Florida Atlantic University Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute:
Florida Atlantic University (FAU) Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute is a world class research organization with a focus on exploring the marine environments, studying key species and understanding the connection between humans and the ocean. Founded in 1971 as Harbor Branch Oceanographic Foundation, Inc., the Institute expanded its reach to over 100 miles along Florida’s east coast when it joined Florida Atlantic University in 2007. Located in St. Lucie County, our 144-acre campus along the Indian River Lagoon employs over 200 scientists, engineers, educators, staff and students. To this day, the Institute actively pursues solution-oriented research that addresses some of the most critical issues affecting coastal zones, oceans and human well-being.
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..
