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The Importance of the Right to Protest

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The Importance of the Right to Protest

By Summer Wadleigh

The root of almost all forms of progressive change have been created and implemented through the people. As a unit and as a nation we have been able partake in this journey of equality for those whose rights were left up for debate by the people in power. Women, people of color, and the LGBT community have been advocating for simple rights for hundreds of years, and a common way of exhibiting this has been through the protection of our right to protest.

Photo by Zach Smith.

During this new wave of Black activism, Americans from all walks of life have been taking to the streets to physically display their frustration and their passion towards the long overdue need for change. In Palm Beach County specifically, there have been consistent protests organized and spread via social media, making involvement easier and making presence much larger as the movement continues.

Though this advocacy for change in Palm Beach County could be coming to a serious halt, as Governor Ron DeSantis attempts to use intimidation tactic in violating our first amendment rights. On September 21st DeSantis proposed the “Combating Violence, Disorder and Looting and Law Enforcement Protection Act”. Let’s break it down.

With this act, there are newly implemented criminal offenses. Things such as Prohibition on Violent or Disorderly Assemblies, in which someone can be charged with a 3rd degree felony if 7 or more people are involved in an assembly that damages property or inflicts injury on others, and the Prohibition on Obstructing Roadways, in which disrupting traffic puts a protestor in a position to be killed by a driver who would not be liable for their injury or death. Also the implementing of RICO Liability puts anyone who contributes to the organizing of disorderly assembly at risk of being charged with a felony as well. All of these changes are accompanied by increased penalties for acts of violence in addition to these new criminal offenses.

After hearing of these new offenses and being out of touch with the movement you might be thinking, Why is this important? Shouldn’t we want less violence on the streets? Let me offer you a different perspective.

Instead of thinking purely about the violence itself, think about both the long term and the short term causes of disorderly assembly. The minimal existence of poor conduct within protest is a result of eternal injustice. It is anger that has lasted for hundreds of years and sadness that derives from yesterday’s news. Black people are killed as a result of profiling and racism from those that have sworn to protect, yet those same people are more concerned with the vandalization of a Walmart than the lives of their citizens. While most protests for Black lives remain peaceful (and coincidentally unbroadcasted), if my future child faced injustice by the police, you know I’d be raising hell too.

Limiting protests will not stop violence, giving Black people the justice that they deserve will stop violence. Addressing the corruption within our systems will stop violence. Assembly will stop when there is no longer anything to assemble for.

 

Naughty Chocolate Cake

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The Cake Bosses – Naughty Chocolate Cake

With Frannie and Dani, the Sweethearts

After falling madly in love with the glorious Riverwalk and specifically its duck population, The Sweethearts (Frannie and Dani) discover unimaginably divine dark orgasmic chocolate cake in a Crab Shack of all places!

JOE’S CRAB SHACK
Riverwalk, San Antonio, Texas
(210) 271-9981

FERD & GLADYS ALPERT JEWISH FAMILY SERVICE TAKES “MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AID” TRAINING VIRTUAL

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FERD & GLADYS ALPERT JEWISH FAMILY SERVICE TAKES “MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AID” TRAINING VIRTUAL

 

WEST PALM BEACH, FL – September 24, 2020 –  Ferd & Gladys Alpert Jewish Family Service (Alpert JFS), in partnership with Palm Health Foundation, Palm Beach County Behavioral Health Coalition, the 14 agencies that comprise the Mental Health First Aid Coalition of Palm Beach County, and the Health Council of South East Florida/Florida Department of Health present “Mental Health First Aid”, the nationally renowned, evidence-based training course that teaches participants the skills to help someone developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis. Certified Mental Health First Aiders are able to assess the situation, offer nonjudgmental support, reassure, and give hope while helping the person get the appropriate professional assistance.

Like many other programs and services in the age of COVID-19, Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) has gone from in-person training to online. Participants engage in experiential activities that build an understanding of the impact of illness on individuals and families in a virtual class format that includes two (2) hours of self-paced independent classwork followed by interactive Zoom instruction for up to 20 people at a time.

 

Thanks to grants from Florida Blue, SAMHSA, and OD2A (Overdose Data 2 Action), residents living in vulnerable communities, first responders, veterans, public safety personnel, firefighters, and those working in addiction recovery can be trained to help family, friends, and neighbors with mental health challenges.

 

Alpert JFS currently has MHFA training scheduled for participants in legal, hospitality, education, and governmental environments, and the agency offers classes to the public, as well. Sometimes, participants continue their studies, becoming instructors, as was the case with Dr. Nakisha Kinlaw-Williams, DNP, APRN, AGPCNP-BC, who said, “My instructor, Cindy Wides, inspired me to want to become an instructor myself. I remember coming right up to her after class to share that intention and, from that point on, she guided me through each level of growth in my journey as I progressed as an MHFA Instructor, taking me from Adult to Youth and, now, Virtual Instructing.”

 

To learn how you can be a lifeline to friends, family members, colleagues, and others in the community of the Greater Palm Beaches, visit https://www.alpertjfs.org/mhfa/ , or contact Cindy Wides at 561-238-0251 or email [email protected] to find a MHFA course near you.

 

“Now, more than ever, our community needs Mental Health First Aid trainings to help us help others. In today’s reality, faced with an uncertain future regarding our health and well-being, many people are feeling helpless, sad, frustrated and angry; emotions that can lead to an overwhelming sense of anxiety,” said Wides. “We want to make MHFA training as common as CPR training, to help destigmatize mental illness, addiction, and suicide, and debunk the myths attached to these mental health challenges, so those affected can feel more comfortable seeking help and support.”

 

“Mental illness impacts the person, their family and the community. Many people with mental illness are reluctant to seek help, or may not know where to turn for care,” said Alpert JFS Clinical Director Elaine Rotenberg, Ph. D. “Symptoms of mental health and substance use abuse can be difficult to detect, and it might be hard for friends and family members to know when and how to help. MHFA training teaches people how to start the conversation.”

Established in 1974, Ferd & Gladys Alpert Jewish Family Service is a nationally accredited service provider for children, adults, seniors, and Holocaust survivors. The non-profit, non-sectarian organization is a trusted leader, with a team of nearly 200r highly skilled professionals delivering high-quality care to community members. Alpert JFS works to ensure the well-being of children and families, independence of older adults and quality-of-life for individuals with disabilities. For more information, visit www.AlpertJFS.org or phone 561-684-1991.

 

 

League of Women Voters PBC Publishes 2020 VOTERS’ GUIDE

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League of Women Voters of Palm Beach County

Publishes 2020 VOTERS’ GUIDE

Available Online Now at www.lwvpbc.org

 

(West Palm Beach, FL – September 24, 2020) The League of Women Voters of Palm Beach County (LWVPBC) continues its tireless efforts to prepare local voters for the upcoming National Elections with the publication of the 2020 VOTERS’ GUIDE, a multi-page nonpartisan overview of current candidates and ballot issues. It is available online now at www.lwvpbc.org.

 

More than 128,000 copies of the printed2020 VOTERS’ GUIDE are being distributed throughout Palm Beach County, primarily through the Sunday, October 4issues of The Sun-Sentinel (Boca Raton, Delray Beach), The Palm Beach Post(Boynton Beach to Jupiter), and The Palm Beach Daily News (on the island). Copies have also been sent to city and county libraries, government buildings, and more.

 

“The League’s 2020 VOTERS’ GUIDE  provides residents with many of the facts they will need to cast a well-informed vote, including information about the candidates, Florida constitutional amendments, and other local and statewide contests,” says LWVPBC President Ken Thomas. “Voting is a precious right, and democracy demands an informed electorate.”

 

The 2020 VOTERS’ GUIDE is just one of the League’s pre-election efforts to educate voters, including the websitewww.VOTE411.org and regular “Hot Topic” and “Cool Topic” discussions via Zoom.

 

Please note the deadline to register to vote in the November 3 general election is October 5, 2020. Voters can sign-up to receive a Vote-by-Mail ballot atwww.pbcelections.org.

 

About the League of Women Voters of Palm Beach County:

The League of Women Voters of Palm Beach County is a nonpartisan political organization of women and men of all ages and backgrounds, encouraging informed and active participation in government through education and advocacy. The League of Women Voters of the United States believes that voting is a fundamental citizen right that must be guaranteed. For more information, please visit www.lwvpbc.org orwww.facebook.com/lwvpbc.

 

“State of Hunger” Free Virtual Town Hall Discussion Hosted by the Palm Beach County Food Bank on Sept 30th

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 “STATE OF HUNGER IN PALM BEACH COUNTY” FREE VIRTUAL TOWN HALL DISCUSSION HOSTED BY THE PALM BEACH COUNTY FOOD BANK ON SEPTEMBER 30

Panel also includes PBC Board of County Commissioners, United Way of PBC, CROS Ministries and Farm Share

 

(Lantana, Fla.) –  In a county that is known for its vast wealth, it’s hard to imagine that one in seven residents in Palm Beach County struggle every day with hunger. On September 30 at 12 p.m., the Palm Beach County Food Bank will come together virtually with top community leaders for its first Town Hall discussion on the “State of Hunger in Palm Beach County.”

 

The free Zoom panel discussion includes Verdenia Baker, County Administrator for the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners; Julie Kreafle, VP of Hunger Relief at the United Way of Palm Beach County; Gibbie Nauman, Development Director for CROS Ministries; Stephen Shelley, President and CEO of Farm Share and Palm Beach County Food Bank Interim CEO and Board member Jim Greco.

Marti LaTour

Marti LaTour, Board Chair for the Palm Beach County Food Bank, will moderate the panel. Discussion will include how the Food Bank and other non-profits that focus on hunger relief have responded to the pandemic, as well as how these organizations plan to pivot going forward as the need continues but federal programs expire. The panel will conclude with a Q&A session from those in attendance.

 

“It’s hard to imagine that prior to COVID-19 we were distributing approximately 5 million pounds of food annually and now we are processing as much as several million pounds a month,” said Greco. “We have expanded our distribution to help meet the growing needs of the community and are continuously eclipsing previous months in record high volume. The need is great and forecasts indicate it will continue to persist. Now more than ever we need the public’s generosity and support to maintain the momentum.”

 

Before COVID-19, the Palm Beach County Food Bank provided access to nutritious food for more than 100,000 hungry Palm Beach County residents every month. Now, that demand has more than doubled as more people are left without jobs and income. Last year the Food Bank sourced over 10 million pounds of food annually from grocery stores, restaurants, food distributors, wholesalers and other sources, and provided it to almost 200 local community partners.

 

Advance registration is required to attend the free Town Hall discussion. To register for “State of Hunger in Palm Beach County” or for more information on the Palm Beach County Food Bank, please visit pbcfoodbank.org.

 

“Virtualoso” Talent Show Accepting Video Entries — Extended Through October 15 (Nationwide)

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CALL FOR ENTRIES:

VIRTUAL TALENT SHOW TO BENEFIT VARIETY OF CHARITIES

“VIRTUALOSO” now accepting submissions through October 15

Finals scheduled for December

 

In keeping with its mission to offer creative ways to support charities, Artists & Charities Hand in Hand will host a virtual talent show this Fall featuring a variety of acts and performances by talented kids and grownups. “Virtualoso” is the brainchild of Ingrid Robinson, Founder and CEO of Artists & Charities, which has previously hosted professional art fairs in South Florida and is now embarking on an expansion into performing arts.

Virtualoso Talent Show

“Virtualoso” will accept video submissions from individuals and groups who sing, dance, have a variety show act, or other unique, family-friendly talent. All ages are invited to apply.  There is a non-refundable application fee of $10 for each submission.

 

Now through October 15, 2020, applicants should provide a video (maximum length 2 minutes) performing their talent. If selected by the judges to compete, the applicants will receive an additional questionnaire for more detailed bio/background story information. Video submissions can be uploaded HERE.

 

“I am so excited about the opportunity to showcase the incredibly diverse talent that’s out there,” said Robinson. “Who says you can’t have a little fun, even during these challenging times? Our goal is to raise funds for as many charities as we can by featuring incredibly talented kids and grownups from our area – and, who knows, maybe we’ll discover a future star!”

 

There will be three winners, based on the number of votes received, with cash prizes as follows:

1st Place – $1,000

2nd Place – $500

3rd Place – $250

 

For a complete list of rules, click HERE.

 

Once contestants are finalized, the videos will be uploaded to a dedicated page at VirtualosoTalentShow.com and the public is invited to vote on their favorite. Each contestant will select his/her charity of choice, and all donations (which come in the form of votes at $1 each) will go directly to that charity. Contestants will be encouraged to promote their participation to maximize the charitable donation.

 

Corporate and individual Sponsorships for VIRTUALOSO are available, and more information is available by emailing [email protected], or by calling 954-650-0324.

 

Facebook: @virtualshow

Instagram:@virtualososhow

Twitter: @virtualososhow

 

Additional information, including celebrity judges, timeline, and event details will be posted on VirtualosoTalentShow.com. Inquiries can be emailed to [email protected].

 

Morikami October workshops, classes, and demonstrations

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Morikami October workshops, classes, and demonstrations:

Wednesdays, October 7, November 4, December 2 or Saturdays, October 3, October 10, November 14, December 5

Stroll for Well-Being

Time: 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. or 1:30 p.m. – 3 p.m.

Cost: Free to qualified applicants

Immerse yourself in Morikami’s natural beauty, peace and serenity through our therapeutic garden-walking program. During three sessions, a qualified facilitator will lead participants through themed walks and journal writing to encourage reflection, and ultimately, personal well-being. To learn about the program, application requirements, and more, visit morikami.org.

 

Thursdays, October 1, 8, 15, 22

Sumi-e Ink Painting (Floral Beginner) (Class)
Time: Floral – 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Cost: $60 (Morikami Members $55). Advance Registration Required.

Sumi-e is a form of Japanese ink painting brought from China in the 12th century. Primarily done in black ink, the name literally means “charcoal drawing” in Japanese. Students grind their own ink using an ink stick and a grinding stone and learn to hold and utilize brushes to create the primary sumi-e brushstrokes. Floral and landscape classes will start with a review of the basic techniques before moving on to the main subject. For required materials or to register, visit morikami.org.

 

Thursday, October 1
Mori Stories: The Magic Tea Kettle
Time: 1 p.m.
Cost: FREE for members or with paid museum admission. No Reservation Required.

A man helps a tanuki, a raccoon dog, in distress and is later rewarded by this playful shapeshifting creature. Come learn how not all yokai are scary.

 

Fridays, October 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Sumi-e Ink Painting (Class)
Time: Floral – 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Landscape – 1:30 p.m. –3:30 p.m.

Cost: $60 (Morikami Members $55). Advance Registration Required.

Sumi-e is a form of Japanese ink painting brought from China in the 12th century. Primarily done in black ink, the name literally means “charcoal drawing” in Japanese. Students grind their own ink using an ink stick and a grinding stone and learn to hold and utilize brushes to create the primary sumi-e brushstrokes. Floral and landscape classes will start with a review of the basic techniques before moving on to the main subject. For required materials or to register, visit morikami.org.

 

Saturday, October 3

Shibori Indigo – Apron (Workshop)

Time: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Cost: $65. Advance Registration Required.

The use of indigo dye, or aizome, has a long and cherished history in Japan. The deep blue colors for which Japanese textiles are celebrated come from the leaves of the tade ai, a plant introduced to Japan from China in the sixth century. Shibori is a Japanese technique of manual resist dyeing used to make patterns on fabrics. Learn various shibori techniques and cook in style by making your own shibori apron to wear. For required materials or to register, visit morikami.org.

 

Sundays, October 4, 11, 18, 25, November 1, 8, 15
Nihongo: Introduction to Japanese (Virtual Online Class)

 Time: Level I – 10:15 a.m. – 11:25 p.m.
Level II – 11:25 a.m. – 12:35 p.m.
Level III – 12:40 a.m. – 1:50 p.m.
Level IV – 1:50 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Cost: $110 (Morikami Members $100). Advance Registration Required.

Nihongo: Introduction to Japanese is a beginner and lower intermediate program teaching Japanese speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Students are introduced to Japanese culture and lifestyles through lessons and conversation. Levels I and II use Japanese for Busy People I (JBP I) and levels III and IV use Japanese for Busy People II (JBP II). Fall, winter, and spring sessions of each level should be taken sequentially as a series. For more information, required textbooks or to register, visit morikami.org.

 

Sundays, October 4, 18 or Thursdays, October 8, 22

Sado: Tea Ceremony (Beginners) (Class)
Time: 10:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.

Cost: $55 (Morikami Members $50). Advance Registration Required.

Expand upon your knowledge of Japanese tea ceremony in this hands-on class. Perform traditional Japanese tea ceremony, with its ever-evolving seasonal subtleties, in the authentic Seishin-an Tea House under the guidance of instructor Yoshiko Hardick. The tea ceremony changes from month to month and from season to season.To register, visit morikami.org.

 

Sundays, October 4, 18

Sado: Tea Ceremony (Intermediate) (Class)
Time: 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Cost: $55 (Morikami Members $50). Advance Registration Required.

Expand upon your knowledge of Japanese tea ceremony in this hands-on class. Perform traditional Japanese tea ceremony, with its ever-evolving seasonal subtleties, in the authentic Seishin-an Tea House under the guidance of instructor Yoshiko Hardick. The tea ceremony changes from month to month and from season to season.Intermediate course requires approval by the instructor before registering. To register, visit morikami.org.

 

Sundays, October 4, 11, 18, 25, November 1

The Art of Bonsai (Class)
Time: 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. (Beginners)

9 a.m. – 12 p.m. (Intermediate)
Cost: $91 (Morikami Members $81). Advance Registration Required.

Bonsai means “a tree in a tray.” The art of bonsai creates the illusion of age and maturity of a tree, which has developed and sustained the effects of nature for many years. Students of bonsai learn to artfully trim and train a tree in a container. For a list of required materials or to register, visit morikami.org.

 

Saturdays, October 24, November 7

Nihongo Intensive I – A (Virtual Workshop)

Time: 12 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Cost: $100. Advance Registration Required.

This workshop is an introduction to the Japanese language. It covers the basics, an introduction to hiragana, and Unit 1 of the required text. There are no prerequisites for this workshop. Students who take workshop 1-A may continue to Nihongo Intensive II Workshop or the Nihongo Level I Session 2 class. For required materials or to register, visit morikami.org.

 

Thursdays, October 29, November 5, 12, 19

Sumi-e Ink Painting (Floral Beginner) (Class)
Time: Floral – 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Cost: $60 (Morikami Members $55) Advance Registration Required.

Sumi-eis a form of Japanese ink painting brought from China in the 12th century. Primarily done in black ink, the name literally means “charcoal drawing” in Japanese. Students grind their own ink using an ink stick and a grinding stone and learn to hold and utilize brushes to create the primary sumi-e brushstrokes. Floral and landscape classes will start with a review of the basic techniques before moving on to the main subject. For required materials or to register, visit morikami.org.

 

Fridays, October 30, November 6, 13, 20

Sumi-e Ink Painting (Class)
Time: Floral – 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Landscape – 1:30 p.m. –3:30 p.m.

Cost: $60 (Morikami Members $55). Advance Registration Required.

Sumi-e is a form of Japanese ink painting brought from China in the 12th century. Primarily done in black ink, the name literally means “charcoal drawing” in Japanese. Students grind their own ink using an ink stick and a grinding stone and learn to hold and utilize brushes to create the primary sumi-e brushstrokes. Floral and landscape classes will start with a review of the basic techniques before moving on to the main subject. For required materials or to register, visit morikami.org.

 

Due to the ongoing public health threat of COVID-19, programs are subject to change and/or cancellation. A signed waiver form will be required to participate in classes and workshops.

 

Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens is located at 4000 Morikami Park Road, Delray Beach. For more information, call (561) 495-0233 or visit morikami.org.

Tire Kingdom Donates Tires to Okeechobee Family in Need

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Tire Kingdom Donates Tires to Okeechobee Family in Need

Retailer helps family stay safe while on the road to and from medical appointments

PALM BEACH GARDENS, FL – September 25, 2020 – September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, an opportunity to raise awareness for those affected by childhood cancer and a time to share the stories of the countless number of families and children who are fighting the disease each day.

In Okeechobee, Marie and Moses Neal know that fight. Marie is the primary caregiver for her great nephew, Moses Holness, a 19-year-old patient battling Diffused Large B-Cell Lymphoma. Moses also has Autism. Moses started chemotherapy treatment in April 2020 and is expected to continue treatment through December 2020.

Marie and Moses are heroes, just like all the other families fighting for the health and life of their children. Yet, medical costs, transportation costs and other financial expenses have taken a toll on the family — they drive from Okeechobee to West Palm Beach, Port St. Lucie and Miami for treatment.

Working with the Pediatric Oncology Support Team, which helps local children and their families in six South Florida counties, the Neal family was matched with Tire Kingdom. For the past three years, Tire Kingdom has been supporting POST in Florida as a sponsor of its annual Stronger than Cancer 5k Run/Walk and other programs.

“When POST told us about the Neal family, we knew we had to help. This family, like all families, is dealing with a lot. And dealing with a pandemic in the middle of this health crisis has not made things any easier. Marie and Moses travel far between Moses’ appointments,” said Jamie Levin, VP of Communications, who also oversees community initiatives for TBC Corporation, parent company to Tire Kingdom. “We want to help keep Marie’s car in safe working condition with new tires so that she and Moses can get back and forth to treatments and doctor visits safely.”

Tire Kingdom donated a set of four tires to the Neal family. To help ease some burden, Tire Kingdom’s Mobile Tire Installation Van team met the family at Palm Beach Children’s Hospital in West Palm Beach, Florida, and installed and balanced the tires while Moses was receiving his chemotherapy treatment.

“This has been a very difficult and unsettling year for everyone because of COVID, so the generosity of Tire Kingdom to help this family with this need is so beautiful it brings tears to my eyes. Moses has had an exceptionally tough time with treatment-related side effects. He already has to fight for his life, now he won’t have to worry whether he can get to the hospital,” said Dr. Barbara Abernathy, CEO of Pediatric Oncology Support Team. “Tire Kingdom is the best community partner we could ever hope for. They understand that getting Moses to his appointments is the difference between life and death. We cannot thank them enough.”

The Tire Kingdom Mobile Tire Installation Van offers tire mounting, balancing and installation. Interested consumers can arrange for the service by calling 1.844.438.8473.

What to do if your pet swallows poison

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What to do if your pet swallows poison

By Brad Lane of The Honest Kitchen

JUST BECAUSE YOU FEED YOUR PET HEALTHY FOOD, THAT DOESN’T MEAN YOUR PET WON’T EAT THINGS HE SHOULDN’T.

If your pet has potentially gotten into something toxic, don’t go searching around the internet, possibly being misled. Instead, there’s a very credible source you should contact: the Animal Poison Control Center. Operated by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), the Animal Poison Control Center took over 200,000 phone calls from concerned pet owners in 2018, lending a voice to thousands of pets who may (or may not) have come into contact with a toxic element.

Comprised of expert toxicologists and professional veterinarians, the Animal Poison Control Center is staffed 24/7 to respond to emergency questions regarding potential poisons. A $65 consultation fee comes with every case the Animal Poison Control Center undertakes, including follow-up calls with your veterinarian, and they are happy to share plenty of information for pet owners before a situation arises. Collaborating with THK, the ASPCA helped create a quick procedure list to follow if you think your pet swallowed or came in contact with poison and answer a few questions about the life-saving Animal Poison Control Center (APCC).

 

Animal Poison Control Phone Number:
(888) 426-4435

 

WHAT TO DO IF YOUR PET SWALLOWS POISON:

If you believe your pet has swallowed or came in contact with a toxic substance, follow this procedural list to handle the situation quickly and in your pet’s best interest:

  1. Remove your pet from the area.
  2. Determine the toxic substance if able. (note packaging labels, ingredient listings, amount ingested/contacted)
  3. Call your veterinarian or the Animal Poison Control Center (even if your pet’s not showing symptoms—the sooner the better; be ready to provide your their breed, size, and medical history)
  4. Follow directions given by APCC or veterinarian (collect a sample of the toxin if directed)

Breaking these steps down further and answering a few frequently asked questions, the Medical Director of the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, Tina Wismer (DVM, MS, DABVT, DABT), has some further insight about treating potential pet poisonings.

The Honest Kitchen: What is one of the first things a pet owner should do if they suspect their pet has swallowed a poisonous substance?

Dr. Wismer: The first thing that you should do if you suspect your pet has ingested something poisonous is contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Poison Control Center. When you call the APCC they will ask you about your pet’s medical background, size and weight, how much of the substance they ate, age, and the timeline of the ingestion. Keep your eyes on what your pets get into at all times and make sure to take action if they eat something they shouldn’t immediately. Do not wait for your pet to develop signs.

THK: What are some signs of a pet reacting to a poison and at what point should pet owners be calling the Animal Poison Control Center?

Dr. Wismer: The signs and symptoms of pet poisoning varies depending on what substance was ingested. Some common signs and symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, and seizures. If you suspect that your pet has ingested something potentially poisonous you should call your veterinarian immediately. It is best to get a professional opinion sooner rather than later—your call could be lifesaving to your pet!

THK: What are the risks of using an internet search engine to determine if your pet has swallowed something poisonous?

Dr. Wismer: Although the internet can be a great tool to determine what is/isn’t okay to give your pet, you can also get too much information. Each poison case is different and pet owners may share frightening details of their situation which can cause panic in pet owners. It is best to contact an animal healthcare professional in the event that your pet is in danger by eating something they shouldn’t have.

Read on . . .

***

Born in raised in the great state of Iowa, Brad has lived on both sides of the country, from the Blue Ridge to the Cascades. Currently residing in Missoula, Montana, Brad is always on the lookout for the next big adventure.

Wild Pants 2020 – Constructive Fundraising for The Arc of Palm Beach County

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Wild Pants 2020

Constructive Fundraising in a Chaotic Year

 

Riviera Beach, Fla. (September 15, 2020) – The year 2020 has already been one for the record books, and it’s about to get wilder. The Arc of Palm Beach County has transformed its annual Wild Pants Party into an outlandish, online fundraiser. Wild Pants 2020 runs October 1 through 29.

For the first time ever, the Wild Pants competition will be open to everyone. The event has traditionally recruited men from the community to model colorful pants in an effort to raise funds to support programs for people with disabilities. This year, participants of all ages and genders can make, decorate, or buy wild pants to battle for the championship title.

 

Richard Gaff, the reigning king of Wild Pants is looking to defend his crown. The top fundraiser wins a shopping spree at The Gardens Mall, the Wild Pants Championship belt, and major bragging rights. The winner will be announced live on The Arc’s Facebook page on Friday, October 30.

 

“The team at The Arc has met the challenges of this year with innovation – finding ways to virtually engage our clients and support their families. We are asking the community to do the same thing; to get creative and have fun, while helping people with disabilities,” said Kimberly McCarten, president and CEO of The Arc of Palm Beach County.

 

Sign up for Wild Pants 2020 at https://www.mightycause.com/event/Wildpants. Share your personalized fundraising page with donors and show off your creativity on social media using the hashtag #ArcWildPants. It’s constructive fundraising in a chaotic year.

 

About The Arc of Palm Beach County

The Arc is changing the conversation around disabilities by defying definitions, inspiring possibilities, and improving the lives of the people we serve. Since 1958, The Arc has envisioned a community where every person feels welcome, connected, and accepted.