When it comes to cleaning schools, there’s a lot more to it than just wiping down surfaces and picking up after messy students. Sure, we all notice the sticky fingerprints on door handles, the paper towels left on the bathroom floor, and the inevitable cafeteria spills. But what people often overlook is how a dirty school can set off a chain reaction affecting everyone—students, staff, and even parents.
Imagine this: a student comes to school with a cold. They touch a doorknob, a faucet, or a desk, leaving germs behind. Another student comes along, picks up those germs, and gets sick. Now, they must miss school. Their parents might have to take time off work to care for them, putting them behind in their own responsibilities. The student falls behind in class, which means more work for the teacher, and the cycle continues. You can see how it all spirals from there.
That’s why keeping a school clean is so important. It’s not just about making things look nice—it’s about creating a healthy, safe, and motivating environment for everyone.
Why Clean Schools Matter Beyond the Surface
Cleanliness in schools goes way beyond just looking good. It’s essential for a productive learning environment. Here’s why:
Reduces Illness: Regular cleaning and disinfecting help stop the spread of germs, keeping students and staff healthier.
Enhances Focus: A neat and organized classroom helps students concentrate and learn better.
Boosts Morale: A clean school shows that you care about the people in it, which makes everyone feel better and more valued.
Safety First
Lately, school safety has become more critical than ever. By keeping schools clean, we’re not just making them look good—we’re also making them safer. When schools follow best cleaning practices, they reduce risks and protect everyone on campus.
Top Tips for Effective School Cleaning
To keep schools clean efficiently, here are some top strategies to follow:
Create a Comprehensive Cleaning Plan: Start with a detailed plan that covers every area—classrooms, restrooms, cafeterias, hallways, offices. This way, no spot gets overlooked, and cleanliness stays consistent.
Set Up a Cleaning Schedule: Regular routines are essential. Set specific tasks for your janitorial team to tackle daily, especially high-touch areas like door handles and desks. This keeps dirt and germs from building up.
Use Quality Cleaning Products: Invest in commercial-grade cleaning products and equipment that can tackle a wide range of germs. Eco-friendly and non-toxic options are great because they’re safer for everyone.
Train Your Staff: Make sure your janitorial staff is properly trained and certified in cleaning procedures and safety protocols. Well-trained staff are more efficient and better at maintaining high standards.
Best Practices for School Cleaning
To make sure cleaning is as effective as possible, follow these best practices:
Color-Code Cleaning Tools: Use different colored cloths and tools for different areas to prevent cross-contamination. For example, red cloths for bathrooms and blue for kitchens.
Focus on High-Touch Areas: Regularly disinfect high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and desks to reduce germ transmission.
Go Green: Consider eco-friendly cleaning practices. They’re better for the environment and align with the values of many schools.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, cleaning a school isn’t just about keeping things looking nice. It’s about ensuring that students and staff have a safe, healthy place to learn and work. By following these strategies and best practices—and maybe even partnering with a professional school cleaning service—you can keep your school clean, safe, and ready for success.
Shari Cedar is the CEO & Co-Owner of AK Building Services, an industry-leading commercial janitorial services provider in Florida that Shari owns with her husband.
Delray Beach, FL (September 6, 2024) — Achievement Centers for Children & Families (ACCF) will hold its 13th Annual Witches of Delray Beach Bike Ride on Saturday, October 26th.The witches plan to make their triumphant return to Downtown Delray Beach with the route starting at City Hall, flying down the famed Atlantic Avenue, and zipping back to the Old School Square pavilion.
Three hundred (300) witches will don their best witch-wear and extravagantly decorated brooms (bikes) to ride through scenic Downtown Delray Beach up Atlantic Avenue, all guided by the Delray Beach Police Department. The ride will take off promptly at 8:30 a.m. At the conclusion of the ride, the party will continue at the Old School Square Outdoor Pavilion Stage with music and awards presentations such as “Best Costume,” “Best Witch Cackle,” “Best Decorated Broom (Bike),” and “Best Group Theme.”
Prior to the big ride day, new this year, Amanda Perna of the House of Perna Boutique & Atelier (Project Runway Reality Star) and the Tin Roof will host a “Not your Basic Witch” Hat Decorating Event on October 1st at 7 p.m. (rain date is October 8). ACCF will provide hat supplies, crafts, couture and traditional hat decorating materials. The event will be held at 8 E. Atlantic Avenue, Delray Beach. Space is limited.
Additionally, long-time event partner Tim Finnegan’s Irish Pub in Delray Beach will host a signature fundraiser in support of the Witches Ride, the Annual “Witches Brew” on Friday, October 18th from 6 to 9 p.m.
The entire month of October, ACCF will have a variety of Ways to be Wicked with the Witches of Delray. For registration and event details visit www.tinyurl.com/Witches2024.
Funds raised from the Witches Ride directly benefit Delray Beach’s Achievement Centers for Children & Families, a community-based organization dedicated to serving under-resourced children and families in Delray Beach and surrounding communities.
“As we mark the 13th anniversary of our Witches Ride, we are reminded of the incredible community spirit that has made this event so special. It’s not just about the costumes and the fun—it’s about coming together to support a cause that has such a meaningful impact,” said Stephanie Seibel, CEO of the Achievement Centers. “It’s incredible to see how much the event has grown over the years. It brings so much joy and support to our organization, and we’re excited to see it continue to grow.”
About Achievement Centers for Children & Families (ACCF) At Achievement Centers for Children & Families, children are involved in Early Learning (Toddler and Preschool), After School, Teen and Summer Camp programs that help prepare them for academic and social success and inspire them to discover their talents. Our families are served through our Family Support and Economic Stabilization services which benefit the community by stabilizing families in crisis; supporting them to serve as the foundation of their child’s growth. Family strengthening services are embedded within our four core programs of Early Learning, After School, Teen and Summer Camp. ACCF currently serves nearly 700 local children and families from three locations in Delray Beach; Nancy K. Hurd Campus, Village Academy, and Pine Grove Elementary. For more information, call (561) 266-0003 or visit www.achievementcentersFL.org.
PALM BEACH COUNTY, FL– (September 4, 2024) Habitat for Humanity of Greater Palm Beach County (HFHGPBC) has announced its annual Veterans Build event, presented by Vertical Bridge, will be held on November 1, 2024, with multiple job sites across Palm Beach County. This annual fundraiser and community build/repair effort supports veterans and active service members in our community.
With nearly 76,000 veterans living in Palm Beach County, Habitat is committed to honoring those who have served our nation through initiatives like Veterans Build. This program ensures that veterans can achieve or maintain the American dream of homeownership, providing them with a safe and affordable place to call home. The community can support Veterans Build in three impactful ways: by becoming a sponsor, fundraising and building, or by donating to the American Dream Fund—a dedicated fund for Veterans Build 2024. Immediately after the build, participants will gather for the American Dream BBQ, a reception at the Boynton Beach Arts & Cultural Center where guests will celebrate the impact of Veterans Build and honor the veterans and active service members in attendance.
This year’s event is once again presented by Vertical Bridge, a dedicated annual partner and champion for veterans in Palm Beach County. “Vertical Bridge is proud to sponsor the Veterans Build with Habitat for Humanity of Greater Palm Beach County, marking our seventh consecutive year of support,” said Ron Bizick, CEO of Vertical Bridge. “Giving back and making a difference in our communities is deeply important to us. Seeing the stability this housing provides to those who have devoted themselves to defending our nation’s freedom is especially fulfilling.”
Veterans Build 2024 co-chairs are Clint Lowe, Director of Engineering Transformation & Footprint Strategy at Carrier and U.S. Army Veteran; and Michael Maglio, Vice President of Industrial Sales at NuStar Building Materials and U.S. Marine Veteran. Both chairs are honored to lead this year’s event, dedicated to ensuring that veterans in our community feel supported and connected as they transition from military to civilian life. By helping provide a stable foundation of affordable homeownership, they are committed to giving veterans a sense of security and belonging.
Anyone wishing to learn more and get involved is invited to attend the Kick-off Party on Thursday, October 10, 2024, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., hosted by the Maglio Family at a private residence in Jupiter Farms. Guests will enjoy an award-winning pig roast, tableside paella, red, white, and brews, live music by the Steel Pony Band, and a silent auction while learning how they can support Veterans Build 2024. RSVP is required, visit https://app.giveffect.com/campaigns/33470-veterans-build-kick-off-party
Habitat for Humanity of Greater Palm Beach County welcomes corporate partners, volunteers, and service members to help build and improve homes for veterans in our community. Committed Sponsors include Vertical Bridge (Presenting Sponsor); Carrier (Challenge Coin Sponsor); MISSION UNITED (Grant Funder); Hubbard Radio/WFTL 50 (Exclusive Radio Sponsor); Art Roffey & Gail Danto, and BallenIsles Country Club and Seacoast Bank (Community Builder Sponsors); Clear Touch, Document Storage Systems, Inc, Grimes Events and Party Tents, Gunster, Humana, FPL, Pratt & Whitney, and Grimes, Mariza Brussolo, Boynton Beach Arts & Cultural Center and Restore Construction Group, Inc (Hope Builder Sponsors); Magen Protective Services (Security Sponsor); and Starbucks (Coffee Sponsor); and Baptist Health (Hospitality Tent).
Committee Members include Co-Chairs Clint Lowe and Michael Maglio; Honorary Co-Chairs: Anne Desormier-Cartwright & Ryan Paton; Committee Reserves: Julia Dattolo & Charles (Chuck) Millar; Committee Members: Brandon Albers, Nicholas Cannon, Carey Clarke, Andrew Filauro, Amy Kemp, Donna Kerner, Debbie Meyers, Anthony Nastase, Jonathan Oakley, Anta Plowden, Jon Raybuck, Art Roffey, Ivan Rosa, and Melissa Royal.
(WEST PALM BEACH, FLA) – Autumn is arriving, and the Cox Science Center and Aquarium (CSCA) is gearing up for the season. CSCA invites the community to enjoy a variety of events this fall, whether you’re looking to sip on seasonal brews while diving into the latest scientific discoveries or bring the whole family out for a day of autumnal fun.
“The Science Center embraces the magic of this transformative time and the changes that bring new learning opportunities,” said CSCA President and CEO, Kate Arrizza. “Our events offer something for everyone, from thrilling educational experiences to delightful family activities. We look forward to creating unforgettable memories with our guests this season.”
Starting this month, CSCA is partnering with the Palm Beach Zoo to offer an exciting membership perk in celebration of “Swaptember.” All month long, members of either CSCA or the Palm Beach Zoo can enjoy free general admission to both attractions. This special offer is a great way for members to explore even more of what the community has to offer. Please note that this exchange covers general admission only and does not extend to additional member benefits.
On Friday, September 6, between 5:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m., join CSCA for Mommy-Son STEM Night, an event designed to inspire curiosity and creativity through hands-on STEM activities. This night will be a memorable experience tailored for mothers or mother figures and their sons to enjoy with interactive science, engineering and technology-based stations. The evening will feature a pizza dinner, a dance-off and a 360 photo station to cap off the fun. Tickets are $20 per person. For more information and to register, visit www.coxsciencecenter.org/2024-mommy-son-stem-night.
Adult attendees can geek out on Thursday, September 20, between 6 and 9 p.m. at Nerd Night Glow during the CSCA’s after hours. Guests 21 and older can enjoy trivia, ride a mechanical bull and experience live science experiments while a drink bot creates favorite cocktails. Between the evening’s activities, attendees are invited to take a look inside the latest exhibit: Dinosaur Revolution where guests can travel through time and live as prehistoric creatures once lived. Advance tickets are $23 and $28 at the door. Member discounts will be honored. To register, please visit coxsciencecenter.org/event/nerd-night-glow.
Also, continue life-long learning – even as a teacher! On Friday, October 14 between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., the CSCA invites its community teachers for an exciting professional development day of STEM education and exploration. The School District of Palm Beach County and community STEM organizations will host workshops and vendor booths covering a variety of STEM programming with over 100 STEM exhibits! All SDPBC K-12 educators with a current valid teacher I.D. are welcome. For more information, please visit coxsciencecenter.org/STEM-open-house.
Then on Saturday, October 19, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., guests can make it a household outing at the Annual Fall Family Fun Fest! In partnership with PNC Grow Up Great, families can experience a day of live entertainment, outdoor games, a mini petting zoo, fall and science-themed crafts and face painting! Food and drinks will also be onsite for purchase to keep guests in the center of the fun. It’s a family affair with paid admission to visit all the exhibits inside the facility. For more information, please visit coxsciencecenter.org/fall-family-fun-fest.
Finally, thinking of day camps for fall and winter breaks? Consider the CSCA’s science and tech camps for all the curious and hands-on kiddos. Now until February 24, parents and guardians can register children between the ages of 5 and 12 to participate in science and tech camp sessions ranging from Ecosystem Engineers to becoming a junior archaeologist! Camps run between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. To register, please visit coxsciencecenter.org/camps.
The Cox Science Center and Aquarium’s current indoor/outdoor venue features more than 100 hands-on educational exhibits, a 10,000-gallon fresh and saltwater aquarium, digital planetarium and quarter-mile-long outdoor science trail. The Cox Amphitheater hosts daily live science shows, seasonal laser shows and special event programming. The current traveling exhibit on display is Dinosaur Revolution now through September 29.
Beginning on October 13, general admission for adults is $26, $22 for children ages 3-12, and $24 for seniors ages 60 and older. CSCA members and children under 3 years of age receive free admission.
(West Palm Beach, FL – September 3, 2024) Friends of the Mounts Botanical Garden is inviting nature lovers and horticultural buffs to one of its most popular annual events:
September 21 & 22 – Rain or Shine!
Plant-a-Palooza Exotics & Orchids Plant Sale
+ Saturday, 9 am to 4 pm (Members Only preview 8 am to 9 am; last entry 3:30 pm)
+ Sunday, 9 am to 3 pm (last entry 2:30 pm)
FREE for members, $15 for nonmembers (adults); $12 (seniors 65+, college students, and military with ID); $7 (ages 6-17); free for children under 6 and AHS Reciprocal Admission Program members. Tickets are nonrefundable.
Note: Admission is by credit/debit card ONLY; no cash.
Mounts Botanical Garden’s Exotics and Orchids Sale features the finest plant growers, artisans, and experts from across the State of Florida. Visitors have an opportunity to fully engage in the world of plants and learn new gardening techniques, discover what’s trending in floral design, and enjoy Mounts Botanical’s tranquil tropical oasis all at the same time. They can shop a wide variety of rare, exotic, and hard-to-find orchids, plants, trees, herbs, ornamentals, succulents, cactus, bonsai, butterfly/native plants, shrubs, and fruit trees, as well as garden accessories, baskets, fine crafts, and more, from 50 highly sought-after top growers and artisan vendors. Visitors can also learn about South Florida’s plant culture by speaking directly with growers. In addition, speakers and authors who are experts in their respective fields will conduct fun and informative presentations and answer visitors’ questions. Plus, additional horticultural ‘must-haves’ and unique treasures for your home and garden are also available in the Garden’s Gift Shop, Nursery, and Vintage Garden Thrift Shop. Food and dessert trucks will also be at the Garden throughout both days.
SPECIAL PLANT-A-PALOOZA PRESENTATIONS
FREE with Plant Sale Admission.
No registration required, but space is limited to first-come basis.
** Saturday, September 21 at 11 am
Amorphophilia: Growing Amorphophallus in South Florida
with David Hernandez from LeafGardens
David Hernandez brings attendees into the fantastical phallic world of this aroids where they’ll discover there’s more than meets the nose. This talk will formally introduce them to the genus, the part they play in the ecosystem, and how how easy they are to grow. Mr. Hernandez had an appreciation of the natural world for years which transformed into a passion sparked after experiencing a Titan Arum bloom in 2003. While dabbling in the tech industry after high school he maintained an active connection to nature in the form of a small collection of strange plants. Years later, LeafGardens was created to combine his interests in certain aspects of nature and technology under one umbrella, teaching visitors at various events about his unusual band of plants and enlightening guests about our world.
** Sunday, September 22 at 11:00 am
Growing Food at Home: The South Florida Edible Landscape
with Abraham Jantz from Palm Beach Farmyards
October marks the beginning of the main growing season in South Florida. Learn everything you need to know to grow like a pro this year. Abraham Jantz of Jantz Tropical Design works alongside Mike Kane of The Garden Shoppe at their sister company, Palm Beach Farmyards, a nonprofit urban farming and edible landscaping company. Jantz is also a certified beekeeper and has been a Florida Master Gardener for over 10 years. He has a passion for helping people to grow food at home.
** Sunday, September 22 at 1:00 pm
Common Orchids
with Mike Sands from Tangles Roots Orchid Nursery
In this presentation, Mike Sands will discuss growing conditions neded to care for common and some not-so-common orchids found at most big box stores. A certified horticulturist and Master Naturalist who works for the City of Wellington as the head horticulturalist and head spray tech, Sands holds four different spray licenses through the state of Florida that include ornamental and turf, right away, aquatic and natural area. He has been with the city for the last 12 years after serving nine years in the army. At Tangled Roots they specialize in bifoliate cattleyas, the misunderstood cattleya. Mike is also a past president of a local orchid society and is being voted in on the board of the local Florida Nursery Growers and Landscape Association (FNGLA). He started making their own 3D printed pots that are biodegradable after about five years. He has also developed their own fertilizer line that will be released in August. Their fertilizer line has three different types: a 20-20-20 with a built in bacterial fungicide, which is a mix of copper and zinc (don’t worry it’s safe for Dendrobiums!); a 0-52-34 which focuses on roots and buds as well a preventive bacterial fungicide; and a 35-20-20 which has cal/mag built right into it, as well as a bacterial fungicide. Sands lives in Florida with our rainy season, wants to make plants as strong as possible, and has been using all three of these products in the nursery for the last two years.
Exotics & Orchid Sale Vendors at Plant-a-Palooza
Atizana Inspired
Backyard Blooms FL
Barefoot Orchids
Bonsai Brothers
Bromeliad Society of the Palm Beaches
Broward Orchid Supply
Dan & Margie Orchids
Dee Vine Candles
Fantastic Ferns, LLC
Florida Nursery, Growers, & Landscape Association (FNGLA)
Freund Flowering Trees
FTE Studios
Gardino Nursery
Green Vibes
Greenhouse Orchids
HoyaPlants.com
J&J Unique Orchids
J.G.’s Tropicals
Jax’s Jungle
Jim-N-I Orchids
Johns Jungle African Market Baskets
Kool Treats by Mama Dukes
LeafGardens
Liquid Gold Honey
Lisette Cedano
Lucky Bamboo 4 U Flowers and Plants
Mac’s Orchids
Marcus Coconut Crafts
Mounts Nursery
Olena’s Design
OMG That’s Good
Orchid Society of the Palm Beaches
Orchidique, Inc.
Peter’s Crotons & Cordylines
Plants by Smitty
Quest Orchids Inc.
Red Hawk Nursery
Rooted by Two Sisters
Sierra Madre Orchids & Bromeliads
Spencer’s Jupiter Farms Road Nursery, LLC
Spring Water Orchids
Stars & Stripes Woodworking
Tangled Roots Orchid Nursery
Tropical Oils & Incense
Tropical Orchid Society
UF/IFAS Master Gardener
Xain’s World
Yellow Green Exotic Garden
Mounts Botanical Garden & Bloomberg Connects
Explore Anytime, Anywhere with New Mobile Garden Guide
Visitors can now explore Mounts Botanical Garden anytime from anywhere across the globe with the new Mobile Garden Guide. Launched in partnership with Bloomberg Connects, the free arts and cultural app created by Bloomberg Philanthropies, the guide is designed to elevate and enrich the visitor experience by making it easy to discover more of what people love before, during, and after their visit to the Garden. Multi-media content includes maps and information on Mounts Botanical’s 25 display gardens, art in the garden, and current and upcoming exhibitions, as well as an ever-growing spectrum of new photo, audio, and video content available exclusively via the app. To learn more and download the app, visit www.mounts.org/mobile-garden-guide/ [mounts.org].
About Mounts Botanical Garden of Palm Beach County:
With a mission to inspire and educate through nature, Mounts Botanical Garden is Palm Beach County’s oldest and largest botanical garden. Visitors to this 20-acre tropical oasis will see an acclaimed collection of 25 unique garden areas containing more than 7,000 species of tropical and sub-tropical plants, including Florida natives, exotic and tropical fruit trees, herbs, palms, roses, cactus, bromeliads and much more. Mounts Botanical Garden is part of the Palm Beach County Cooperative Extension Department, in partnership with the University of Florida and the non-profit Friends of the Mounts Botanical Garden. This project is sponsored in part by The Board of County Commissioners, the Tourist Development Council, and the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County. Mounts Botanical is located at 531 North Military Trail in West Palm Beach. For more information, please visit www.mounts.org.
Community gathered to celebrate dedicated therapeutic space for fox-assisted therapy at Pawsitive Beginnings
UPPER FLORIDA KEYS – Pawsitive Beginnings has officially opened The Human-Animal Alliance Healing Den in Key Largo. This innovative space at the fox sanctuary will provide opportunity for trauma survivors to heal through the unique bond between humans and animals, specifically focusing on the therapeutic potential of fox- assisted therapy sessions. With the support of a $10,000 grant from Wellington-based charity The Human- Animal Alliance, Pawsitive Beginnings CEO Nicole Navarro has transformed a previously underutilized maintenance room into a serene environment for private sessions to be conducted.
The opening ceremony included a symbolic ribbon-cutting and was graced by the presence of Monroe County Mayor, Holly Merrill Raschein. While addressing an audience of some 50 community members (including law enforcement officers, dignitaries, and The Human-Animal Alliance Founder, Jackie Ducci, who made the project possible), the Mayor highlighted the importance of initiatives to help those who need healing. “This is a happy day for our county, happy day for our children, happy day for our law enforcement to now have a dedicated space,” said Raschein. “Thank you so much Jackie, for your dedication and for embracing Nicole’s vision.” Raschein announced that “from this day forward, August 27th will be recognized as Pawsitive Beginnings Day in Monroe County.”
The Healing Den at Pawsitive Beginnings is designed to accommodate individuals seeking comfort and healing through animal-assisted therapy. Nicole Navarro, CEO of Pawsitive Beginnings said, “Our animal-assisted therapy program was born out of the idea that sharing stories of survival – from the fox’s perspective – has the power to help heal those that may be struggling with trauma, PTSD, or circumstances beyond one’s control, that have placed them in emotional imbalance. Each and every one of our foxes has a story to tell and when we share those stories, they have the power to heal and inspire hope. We are so grateful to Jackie and The Human- Animal Alliance for helping us to raise awareness and expand our mission.”
The $10,000 grant from The Human-Animal Alliance was instrumental in creating this therapeutic space, transforming the existing area into a calming setting that promotes the powerful bond between humans and animals, which has been shown to be effective in treating trauma, depression, and anxiety.
The selection of Pawsitive Beginnings as a grant recipient was driven by the unique approach of its program. Jackie Ducci, Founder of The Human-Animal Alliance, noted, “I had never heard of using foxes in the context of animal-assisted therapy. Nicole’s program is not only effective in helping people but incredibly innovative and different. That was the reason I couldn’t wait to get behind it and I am so glad we found a way to work together.”
The initiative is part of a broader effort by The Human-Animal Alliance, which distributes grants nationwide to similar projects which provide opportunities for human-animal connection. Ducci personally covers the organization’s overhead costs to ensure every dollar donated through exclusive events and private gifts goes
directly to the charitable projects selected for grants, ensuring that more individuals have access to transformative experiences by connecting with animals.
Free Closing Reception & Silent Auction is Wednesday, September 4, 6 to 8 pm
Commelinaceae; Tradescantia virginiana; Spiderwort. Common wildflower and cultivated flower over much of eastern NA. Herbaceous perennial grows in half shade or sun. Grows throughout Florida.
(West Palm Beach, FL – August 26, 2024) Fatima NeJame, president and chief executive officer of the world-renowned Palm Beach Photographic Centre (PBPC), today announced the closing reception and silent auction for the museum’s current exhibition:
Renewal: Going Native, revisited
60+ Stunning Images from 18 Talented Photographers
A follow-up to its popular 2018 exhibition, the Photo Centre’s new artistic offering presents more than five dozen amazing prints, many of which are available for purchase by the highest bidder. All the proceeds from this silent auction on September 4will go to benefit the conservation efforts of the Palm Beach County Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society.
“Photographs in the exhibition range from exquisite close-ups of flowers and butterflies to mysterious landscapes, and from stunning, rare orchids to surprisingly beautiful, common tillandsias,” says NeJame, who curated the exhibit along with Susan Lerner from the local Native Plant Society. “Our goal is for the viewer to experience the joy and aliveness of the native landscape.”
The photographers who are focused on the beauty of Florida’s native landscape include Kevin Barry, Donna Bollenbach, Richard Brownscombe, Christina Evans, George Gann, Roger Hammer, Kirsten Hines, Craig Huegel, Teri Jabour, Mary Keim, Susan Kolterman, Susan Lerner, Don Marchetto, Chuck McCartney, Rufino Osorio, Rebecca Sabac, Loret Setters and Peg Urban.
The free closing reception and silent auction for Renewal:Going Native, revisited will be held on Wednesday, September 4, from 6 to 8 pm.
Auction bids are now being accepted through September 4th at 7:00pm. People may bid in person at the Palm Beach Photographic Centre or place their bids via email at info@workshop.org.
The images being bidding upon are the actual exhibit prints being auctioned as is. The Person with the winning bid who attends the closing reception on September 4 will be allowed to take their image home with them after the reception. Anyone who has the winning bid that is not in attendance at the closing reception will be notified and may pick up their image during normal business hours 10 am to 5 pm the following week.
About thePalm Beach County Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society
Established in 1981, the Palm Beach County Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society is a not-for-profit organization. Monthly meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month at 7 pm in the auditorium at Mounts Botanical Garden in West Palm Beach. Individual membership is $35 yearly. For more information about the Palm Beach County Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society, please visit http://palmbeach.fnpschapters.org and www.facebook.com/PBCC.FNPS.
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 6 pm Monday through Thursday, and 10 am to 5 pm Friday and 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.
CENTER FOR CREATIVE EDUCATION AND ROTARY CLUB OF PALM BEACH/FLAGLER BRING GLOBAL LITERACY TO LIFE FOR INTERNATIONAL LITERACY DAY
Rotary Club of Palm Beach/Flager donated 66 books for each student at The Foundations School at CCE
West Palm Beach, FL—Students at The Foundations School at Center for Creative Education (CCE) embarked on a global adventure through storytelling as they celebrated International Literacy Day on Monday, September 9. The event featured a special donation of books from the Rotary Club of Palm Beach/Flagler at a school assembly, marking the launch of a multi-week project centered on “Fairy Tales from Around the World.”
“This collaboration with the Rotary Club of Palm Beach/Flagler allows us to weave literacy, cultural exploration and the arts into an interdisciplinary learning experience for some of our community’s most at-risk students,” said Dr. Susan Wemette, Director of Arts Integration and Creativity at CCE. “Our students are not just reading stories—they’re living them through creative projects that inspire a deeper understanding of the world around them.”
During the school assembly, each of the 66 students at The Foundations School at CCE received a book handpicked and purchased by members of the Rotary Club of Palm Beach/Flagler. This initiative supports The Foundation School’s innovative curriculum and focus on literacy, allowing students to explore cultural versions of fairy tales, such as “Cinderella,” integrated with subjects like math, science and social-emotional learning. Additionally, throughout the year, students will participate in global writing exchanges and collaborative multimedia art projects with partner schools from the U.K., Czech Republic, Taiwan, Brazil and India.
“When you give a student a book, you’re giving them hope,” said Robert L. Hamon, President and CEO of Center for Creative Education. “The partnership between CCE and the Rotary Club of Palm Beach/Flagler is a shining example of how community organizations can come together to make a meaningful impact on education. Last year, the percentage of third-grade students at The Foundations School reading on or above grade level grew from 30% to 80% – that’s an increase of 50% since the start of the school year.”
CCE’s mission is to transform teaching and learning through creativity and the arts. In addition to offering extended learning opportunities across Palm Beach County, CCE runs The Foundations School, a K-5 independent school improving literacy and breaking traditional education barriers through the arts for underserved students. CCE also operates Blue Planet Global, a non-profit organization that coaches teachers in using international classroom-to-classroom collaborations to teach core curriculum and global competence. The school uses a sliding-fee scale for tuition, applying state and CCE scholarships to cover the balance.
For additional information on The Foundations School or Center for Creative Education, visit cceflorida.org. To make a donation toward a scholarship, please call Jonathon Ortiz-Smykla at 561.805.9927; extension 118.
Introduction by Krista Martinelli, Illustration by Rollin McGrail
About a month ago, I had a conversation with a family member about how polarized our politics seem. But she corrected me in showing me that when it comes to policy ideas, there is much more common ground than one would expect. I started to think about the many friends I’ve talked with who are truly a mix, for example conservative economically and liberal on social issues.
I found that today 51% of Americans would classify themselves as Independent. See chart below.
So, I set out to hear some real viewpoints and get a further understanding of how people felt. I wanted to interview three people who “leaned to the left” and three who “leaned to the right.” I also found out that there’s a lot of fear when it comes to discussing political views right now. So, after a few failed attempts at holding interviews, I decided to make the interviews anonymous. So the names have been changed throughout.
While some of the questions do highlight the differences among our interviewees (like how they feel about the January 6th Insurrection), others are more aimed at finding common ground. I like Virginia’s answer to my place of common ground question. She says, “I think fundamentally everyone wants what is best for their families. We want safe schools and educated children and the ability to grow old with dignity.” It’s true. Doesn’t everyone want these things?
So, polls show that the vast majority of Americans, whether they live in “red” states or “blue” states all want the same things when polled on 388 questions of public policy. Nearly 70% of the results show no statistical differences. Thus, I think we have a lot more common ground than we have been recently led to believe.
Here are the stories from six local people, all living in or around Wellington, FL. Thanks to each one of them for their candid responses.
Note: In the interest of fairly presenting the views of those interviewed in their own voices, their views have been included in this article verbatim, as they stated them.
This is one interview in a 6-part series. The interviews were anonymous, and names changed to keep anonymity.
Why do you think our country is so divided right now?
Kim: Well, I think that it’s fueled by the politics in power, money and the “haves” and “have nots.” I also think that some of the media that’s so slanted is not helping. I also think that social media plays a role. People say things on social media that are untrue, and these things go unchallenged. People air their discontent on social media, it’s negative and it’s created a lot of division. People say things online that they wouldn’t say to someone’s face. I think there are people who don’t have enough to do constructively; negative breeds negative. And I think there’s a lot of people who are hurting, economically and otherwise. They are ripe to fall into these conspiracy theories and it almost has a cult-like flavor. I see it on both sides.
2. Tell us a little about yourself.
Kim: Originally from the Northeast. I’m in the counseling profession.
3. Would you describe yourself as liberal, conservative or independent? Why? Have you always seen yourself this way or have you changed over time?
Kim: I think I would put myself as an Independent. Yes, I have always been an Independent. And that’s another thing that’s ridiculous – why can’t we see these candidates debate who are Independent? Until there’s a strong third party, things will be polarized. Why can’t Independents vote in the primaries?
4. What are the issues that you feel most strongly about?
Kim: With the line of work that I do, I see a lot of women who are living in abusive relationships, but because of the economy they are kind of stuck. We know that 1 in 8 girls will experience rape before the age of 18. And a 6-week rule on abortion is way too early. What’s going to happen to these children who are born from rape situations? I feel that women’s rights are a priority for me because of the work that I do.
That ties into another thing for me…it’s health care. The system is sadly broken, which also affects women’s rights. I’m self-employed, so I have to buy my own policies. These health insurance companies have way too much power. I see people in my office who can’t afford MRIs or have to go to a replacement prescription because they can’t afford their prescribed pharmaceuticals.
And mental health is sorely ignored in this country. That’s another huge issue.
5. What subjects would you say might be a place for common ground? In other words, places where your views might intersect with someone who you would otherwise be voting very differently from you?
Kim: I would hope that health care would be one of them. I know a lot of people who are really conservative, but also don’t agree with the 6-week ban on abortion.
They recently spent $60K on new “Welcome Signs” for Florida, welcoming people to the “free state of Florida”, but they wouldn’t pass free menstruation products to girls in school. Girls are missing school because they can’t afford these products.
I think we need to keep Church and State separate. Where is it going to stop? I think we have to protect religious freedoms.
I would think we can all agree that we need to make our communities safer and screen people better for gun usage. There are certain weapons that shouldn’t be on the street. I grew up in a hunting background and I agree with being able to kill and eat deer. I don’t have a problem with that, but there are certain people who should not have guns. The 2nd Amendment was created when we had muskets, and I don’t think people need full arsenals.
There are common ground areas where there are things we are not doing. Until we get back to the center, I think we are really in trouble. There are radical people on both sides.
6. How do you feel about the January 6th insurrection?
Kim: I think it was a crime. I think the people spoke when we voted. And to have a coup event in this country is a sad commentary of where we are as a nation. To hear those people chanting, “Hang Mike Pence” was devastating.
People have to take some personal responsibility here.
7. Do you have friends who think differently politically from you? If so, do you have conversations about what’s going on politically? Or do you avoid them?
Kim: I have a lot of friends who think very differently from me. We have such good friendships and so many other things that we share with each other; there’s a mutual respect. But there are certain things I won’t discuss with certain people.
8. What do you think the solution is for bringing people together again?
Kim: We need a strong leadership from the top, with mediation skills that can bridge the divide. I think it starts there. People need to be more sensitive to how they use social media and what they post. Start to be more empathetic. I think we’ve lost empathy on so many levels. I think we need to be teaching empathy and tolerance in our schools. There are curriculums that teach tolerance and empathy, and those principles are grounded in all curriculums. We need to be teaching kids to give back early on. Things like Interact for Rotary Club should be mandatory, early on.
I went to Catholic School until 8th grade. In (I think) 5th grade, the teacher divided up the class by eye color. Certain kids had to sit in the back of the class and go to lunch late. They were treated differently. It was an important experience about empathy that I’ll always remember.
9. When we don’t agree on things, what’s the key to maintaining civility?
Kim: I think breaking things down into smaller steps to find common ground that we can agree on is the way to do it. I remember years ago when I was working in schools, we taught kids conflict resolution. I think we need to teach kids healthy ways to express their emotions. Not violence. Getting back to listening and validating other people’s points; basic communication skills are key.
Anything else?
The whole way we carry out the election in this country is really a shame. The money that is spent and raised makes it more of an auction instead of an election. We could save so much money by just having one channel where you give candidates equal airtime. Look at yard signs, for example. They don’t persuade people to vote, just because they see someone has a yard sign. And then they don’t pick them up after the election. They become litter. Unfortunately, it’s all about money.
