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Summer Travel Series: Five South Florida Dog-friendly Breweries You Can’t Miss

Story and Photos By Hannah Deadman-Arnst

I firmly believe good craft beer is a national treasure. My husband and I are full-time travelers, and we love to visit breweries around the country since many of them are dog-friendly. When it comes to finding a perfect sip of suds, South Florida is no exception, boasting a ton of great craft breweries worth visiting. That’s why I’ve curated some of my favorite dog-friendly spots in the region! Check them out on your next weekend adventure or road trip as summertime comes to a close.

Pro tips: Before heading to your brewery of choice, always call ahead to confirm they’re still dog-friendly, because these rules can sometimes change. Bring treats and a bowl that you can fill with fresh water, and be sure your pup can socialize with other people and/or dogs so everyone stays safe and comfortable. Last but not least, always drink responsibly!

Ocean Republic Brewing

Location: Stuart, Martin County

Take a day trip to Stuart for a laid-back coastal vibe—and while you’re at it, stop at Ocean Republic Brewing for some excellent brews! My picks include the Thrasher West Coast IPA (always a favorite, since it tastes like a pine tree) and the Glassy amber lager. Ocean Republic is dog-friendly outside and inside—a big bonus when it’s too hot. Their food menu offers something for everyone, from tuna nachos and smoked fish dip (my go-to!) to wings and poutine, with several varieties of Québec’s national dish.

Civil Society Brewery

Locations: Jupiter & West Palm Beach

If you love IPAs, Civil Society is the place to go. With two dog-friendly locations, it’s a hip spot to hang out, play games, or work. Dogs are allowed on the patio at the Jupiter location, and West Palm’s industrial-style taproom is dog-friendly inside and in the beer garden. Don’t miss the Fresh IPA, their flagship beer. For non-IPA drinkers, try the Wünderkind hefeweizen or the crushable Beach Access lager. You can also order scrumptious wood-fired pizza from Grato down the street. Local ‘za and local beer? The perfect combination!

Mathews Brewing Company

Location: Lake Worth Beach

Located across Dixie Highway just west of downtown Lake Worth Beach, Mathews is not to miss. With a spacious, dog-friendly patio, plus a rotation of local food trucks and live music, it’s a great place to spend time with friends, get some work done, or hang with your pup. My favorite beer at Mathews is Sweet Emotion, a delicious light-bodied cream ale with a touch of hops and vanilla. I also like the dry-hopped, piney Accelerate IPA, characterized by elements of citrus and Simcoe and Centennial hops.

NOBO Brewing Company

Location: Boynton Beach

Boynton Beach is home to several solid breweries, including NOBO. While the brewery has limited outdoor seating, they are dog-friendly inside—a welcome option if it’s hot or it’s pouring down rain! With a smaller space and a selection of board games to play, it truly feels like a neighborhood spot. They also have a nice rotation of beers, including the summery Boynton Blonde. I particularly enjoyed Checkin’ it Twice, a seasonal winter ale punctuated by warm baking spices—and just the right hint of maltiness.

Funky Buddha Brewing Company

Location: Oakland Park, Broward County

Located in downtown Oakland Park, Funky Buddha still feels like a hip local operation, despite becoming a major player in the craft beer world. They have tons of outdoor seating, making it a perfect place for you and your pup. My go-to is the Eternal Summer blonde/golden ale—though during Oktoberfest I love the Buddhafest Märzen—and my husband enjoys the Floridian wheat ale! They also have cocktails and an impressive menu. Some of my favorite selections include the yucca tots, bison sliders, and spent grain pretzels.

Wellington Regional Medical Center Among Nation’s Top Performing Hospitals for Treatment of Heart Attack Patients

American College of Cardiology NCDR Chest Pain  ̶  MI Registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award recognizes sustained, high-level performance in quality of care

Wellinton, FL August 27, 2024 – Wellington Regional Medical Center has received the American College of Cardiology’s NCDR Chest Pain ̶  MI Registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award for 2024. Wellington Regional Medical Center is one of only 259 hospitals nationwide to receive the honor.

The award recognizes Wellington Regional Medical Center’s commitment and success in implementing a higher standard of care for heart attack patients and signifies that Wellington Regional Medical Center has reached an aggressive goal of treating these patients to standard levels of care as outlined by the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association clinical guidelines and recommendations.

To receive the Chest Pain  ̶  MI Registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award, [HOSPITAL NAME] has demonstrated sustained achievement in the Chest Pain  ̶   MI Registry for two consecutive years (2022 and 2023) and performed at the highest level for specific performance measures. Full participation in the registry engages hospitals in a robust quality improvement process using data to drive improvements in adherence to guideline recommendations and overall quality of care provided to heart attack patients.

“It is an honor to award Wellington Regional Medical Center with the Platinum Performance Award for their valuable national leadership and dedication to meeting comprehensive performance measures in patient care,” said Michael C. Kontos, MD, FACC, chair of the NCDR Chest Pain – MI Registry Steering Subcommittee, and cardiologist at Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center. “The receipt of this award indicates that[HOSPITAL NAME] remains committed to providing top quality, guideline-driven care for heart attack patients. Their success ensures patients are receiving the highest quality cardiovascular care.”

The Centers for Disease Control estimates that over 800,000 Americans suffer a heart attack each year. A heart attack occurs when a blood clot in a coronary artery partially or completely blocks blood flow to the heart muscle. Treatment guidelines include administering aspirin upon arrival and discharge, timely restoration of blood flow to the blocked artery, smoking cessation counseling and cardiac rehabilitation, among others.

“We are incredibly proud to be recognized as one of the nation’s top-performing hospitals for the treatment of heart attack patients. The American College of Cardiology’s NCDR Chest Pain – MI

Registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award is a testament to our team’s dedication to providing the highest quality of care. This achievement reflects our sustained commitment to excellence and our relentless focus on improving patient outcomes.” Said Pam Tahan, CEO of Wellington Reginal Medical Center

Chest Pain  ̶  MI Registry empowers health care provider teams to consistently treat heart attack patients according to the most current, science-based guidelines and establishes a national standard for understanding and improving the quality, safety and outcomes of care provided for patients with coronary artery disease, specifically high-risk heart attack patients.

About Wellington Regional Medical Center   

Wellington Regional Medical Center is a 235-bed acute care hospital accredited by The Joint Commission. Celebrating more than 30 years of treating residents in Wellington and the surrounding community, the hospital offers a wide range of services including comprehensive stroke care, comprehensive lung program, minimally invasive services, cardiac services, a birthing center, and level III NICU, comprehensive women’s center, hepatobiliary surgical procedures, intraoperative radiation therapy, interventional procedures and a wellness and weight loss center. To learn more about the hospital, please visit http://www.wellingtonregional.com.

The American College of Cardiology (ACC) is the global leader in transforming cardiovascular care and improving heart health for all. As the preeminent source of professional medical education for the entire cardiovascular care team since 1949, ACC credentials cardiovascular professionals in over 140 countries who meet stringent qualifications and leads in the formation of health policy, standards and guidelines. Through its world-renowned family of JACC Journals, NCDR registries, ACC Accreditation Services, global network of Member Sections, CardioSmart patient resources and more, the College is committed to ensuring a world where science, knowledge and innovation optimize patient care and outcomes. Learn more at www.ACC.org or follow @ACCinTouch.

Nominees Announced for Junior League of Boca Raton’s 37th Annual Woman Volunteer of the Year Luncheon  

BOCA RATON, FL, August 27, 2024– The Junior League of Boca Raton (JLBR) has announced the 43 local women who have been nominated for the 37th Annual Woman Volunteer of the Year Award.  Nonprofits from across Palm Beach and Northern Broward counties have nominated one of their valued volunteers to be considered for Woman Volunteer of the Year Award.  The award recipient will be named at the annual luncheon on Friday, November 1st at The Boca Raton iconic resort and private club.   

The nominees are Amiee Hawkins, Alzheimer’s Association; Althea Largie Ceasor, American Association of Caregiving Youth ; Elaine Tobita, Barky Pines Animal Rescue & Sanctuary; Sue MacDonald, Best Foot Forward Foundation; Loretta Parker, Boca Ballet Theater; Zoe Lanham, Boca Helping Hands, Inc.; Eileen Travasos, Boca Raton Christian School; Olivia Hollaus, Boca Raton Historical Society; Nicole Flier, Boca Raton Police Foundation; Marcia Mithun, Boca West Children’s Foundation; Mandy Bohlman, Boys & Girls Club of Palm Beach County; Jan Savarick, Brain Bowl Events, Inc.; Janet Diaz-Martinez, Caridad Center; Andrea Cannon, Congregation B’Nai Israel; Cheryl Crowley, Cultural Council for Palm Beach County; Amanda Perna, Delray Beach Public Library; Tammera Atkins, Dress for Success Palm Beaches; Randee Wechsler, Eda and Cliff Viner Community Scholars Foundation; Teresa Fedele, Florida Atlantic University Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing; Ashley Cacicedo-Surdovel, Friends of Foster Children of Palm Beach County, Inc.; Danielle Rosse, George Snow Scholarship Fund; Shawn Sherlock, Gina Rose Montalto Memorial Foundation Inc.; Mindy Shikiar, HabCenter of Boca Raton; Robyn Raphael Dynan, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Palm Beach County; Michelle Makris, Hanley Foundation; Iris Urbina, Hispanic Entrepreneur Initiative; Carrie Rubin, Impact 100 Palm Beach County; Elizabeth Rivera, In The Pines; Nancy Dockerty, Junior League of Boca Raton; Arlene Herson, National Society of Arts and Letters; Jennifer Nawrocki, Palm Beach Symphony; Judy Noren, Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League; Haley Winstead, Place of Hope at the Leighan and David Rinker Campus; Nancy Brinker, Promise Fund; Tabitha Stambaugh, Rotary Club Downtown Boca Raton; Sudane Ricketts, Scholar Career Coaching; Gabby Teran, Student ACES; Abby Bernstein, Sweet Dream Makers; Reilly Glasser, The Diaper Bank, Covering South Florida; Robyn Perlman, Women of Tomorrow Mentor & Scholarship Program; Caroline Johnson, Women’s Executive Club; Nicole Grimes, YMCA of South Palm Beach County; and Daniela Levenson, YWCA Palm Beach County. 

“These incredible nominees have made such a vast difference for our community. We are looking forward to honoring these truly deserving women,” said Nikki Stelzer, president of the Junior League of Boca Raton.

Kelly Woods Fleming has been named honorary chair and Meryll Bangsil and Khrisna Kellerman will serve as event co-chairs, as announced by JLBR president Nikki Stelzer.  

Meryll Bangsilgrew up in New Jersey and moved to Florida in 2003 shortly after graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a minor in Economics from Boston University. She is a Senior Vice President and Certified Financial Planner at UBS Financial Services, Inc., where she is the trusted advisor for numerous Ultra High Net Worth families throughout the U.S. Furthermore, Meryll is recognized by Forbes as a Top Wealth Advisor and Best-in-State Wealth Advisor. She became a member of the Junior League of Boca Raton in 2016 and has volunteered her time to serving our community while working full-time, training for marathons and raising three daughters. 

In 2019, she was nominated for the Junior League’s Woman Volunteer of the Year Award by Best Foot Forward (BFF). That same year, she was nominated by Soroptimist International for the Women of Distinction award for her community contributions and then in 2023 for her contributions to BFF. Meryll and her husband, Ethan, jointly chaired the 2022 BFF Bash achieving record donations. She is deeply honored to Co-Chair this year’s event, being a former nominee and having served on the committee for multiple years.

Khrisna Kellerman, a New York City native, has resided in Boca Raton, FL for 11 years with her husband Ted Kellerman and their two children. She currently works as the Parish Executive Assistant and Director of Events at St. Jude Catholic Church. Prior to her move to Florida, Khrisna was the founder and designer of Kaija NY. In 2006, she launched a handbag and accessory brand that promotes women empowerment by providing jobs to local artisans in rural areas in the Philippines. Wanting to give back she partnered with Childhope Asia, a non-profit children’s orphanage home that assisted survivors of human trafficking and child abuse.

Khrisna has a long-standing dedication to serving those in need and an extensive record of volunteering through her church, children’s schools, and other local organizations. In 2016, she became a member of the Junior League of Boca Raton and has since held positions on the FLAVORS and Woman Volunteer of the Year committees. She also served as a committee member at the YMCA Inspiration Breakfast and BFF Bash Event.

Meryll and Khris met shortly after Khris moved to Florida and their families bonded over a

traditional family-style Filipino meal. Their children are close in age and often frequented Disney

together when their children were younger. They have been great friends for over a decade,

traveled and trained for several World Major Marathons together, and have been collaboratively

volunteering ever since joining the Junior League of Boca Raton in 2016. Meryll and Khris are

excited to co-chair this highly anticipated event and further support our community with meaning impact through the Junior League.

The Woman Volunteer of the Year Luncheon celebrates outstanding women in the community nominated by nonprofit organizations for their dedication and expertise as volunteers, as well as the work they do to further the missions of the organizations they serve. Proceeds benefit the Junior League of Boca Raton.  

The Presenting Sponsor is the Junior League of Boca Raton’s 1971 Society. The Award Presentation Sponsor is The Christine E. Lynn Women’s Health & Wellness Institute and The Boca Raton Regional Hospital Foundation. The Boca Raton is the Fashion Show Sponsor. The Media Sponsor is Boca Magazine.

The November 1st event will start with a 10 a.m. social and silent auction with champagne followed by a luncheon, runway fashion show presented by The Boca Raton and concluding with the announcement of the award recipient. Chandelier Table raffle tickets are available for $25. The raffle winner’s entire table will be moved to an elevated chandelier table and served a premium-plated lunch. Each person at the table will receive a $500 luxury swag bag from The Boca Raton. 

Sponsorships are available and tables, tickets and ads are now on sale.  Platinum tables are $4,000, Gold tables are $3,000, Silver tables are $2,000 and Silver General Seating is $200 per ticket. Tribute Program Book ads are available to honor nominees.  For more information, visit https://wvoy.givesmart.com or call 561-620-2553. 

The luncheon is organized by volunteers of the Junior League of Boca Raton (JLBR).

Committee members include Hanna Bradley, Brittanny Ferguson, Clarissa Gleichenhaus,

Camila Harasic, Daphney Hoover, Kelly Humke, Namrata Israni, Dila Kaya, Victoria Matthews,

Marina McCleneghen, Jocelyn Mijares, Rhonda Morris, Monique Oerth, Michele Ribovich, Lois

Ronan, Susan Rutherford, Renata Sans De Negri, Kim Sapashe, Neha Sharan, Karen Wadowicz, Sonia Wegweiser and Kali Williams. The Assistant Chairs are Tara Currier, Veronica Kraft, Kristen

McElwee, Racheal Petullo and Brittany Wright.

About the Junior League of Boca Raton 
Throughout the year, JLBR members contribute more than 35,000 volunteer hours and donate more than $250,000 to support the organization’s mission of advancing women’s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration and training. The Junior League currently focuses on two community issues, Child Welfare and Non-Profit Support.

To learn more about the JLBR, please contact the JLBR office at 561-620-2553 or visit www.JLBR.org.Connect on Facebook or Instagram.

THE WILD WILD WEST COMES ALIVE AT THE BACK-TO-SCHOOL COUNTRY BASH BENEFITINGTHE SCHOOLHOUSE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

(Boynton Beach, Fla.) Monday, August 26, 2024-The nonprofit Schoolhouse Children’s Museum proudly announces the return of their signature fundraiser, the Back to School Bash. This year’s event will be set in the Wild Wild West, named the Back-to-School Country Bash, presented by Palm Health Foundation on Friday, September 20, 2024, at 6:30 pm at Benvenuto in Boynton Beach.

The Schoolhouse Children’s Museum’s Back to School Country Bash is a signature event that connects the community to the museum. It brings community leaders, local business leaders, and young professionals together for a night when adults dress up in a country western theme with friends for a fun evening filled with old-fashioned country-themed games, dinner, a silent auction, line dancing, and a mechanical bull. Nashville recording artists, the Tom Jackson Band, will be performing. The emcee (wrangler) is Chelsea Taylor from New Country WIRK 103.1.

Every year, the Museum presents awards to honor the supporters who help make their work successful.  The Ignite Volunteer Award was created to honor an individual or group who has ignited their passion for the Museum and given time and talent to further the organization’s mission. This year’s honorees are Adrianne Golding & Susan Yohe. The Blaze Award was created to honor an individual or couple who are trailblazer(s) who have inspired others by demonstrating their leadership and support of the museum. This year’s honoree is Jim Guilbeault. The Spark Award was created to recognize a business or organization that supports the museum’s effort to inspire creativity and the desire to learn through hands-on exploration, play, and discovery. This year’s honoree is PNC Grow Up Great.

Funds raised will be used to update the museum’s existing farm exhibit. “Curiosity flourishes most in young minds, and wonder is the spark that ignites a lifelong love of learning. Our Family Farms exhibit is designed to spark that curiosity by allowing children to explore and experience what life was like for Florida’s early pioneers– through play, imagination, and hands-on learning. By supporting the Back-to-School Country Bash, you’re helping us provide these enriching experiences that give every child the opportunity to discover and explore the world around them in a way that’s engaging, fun, and perfectly suited for their early years.”, by Miriam Naranjo, assistant director.

This year’s Bash Chair is Jennifer Sardone-Shiner, and the committee includes Laura Berrio, Jason DelGrosso, Jeffrey Fine, Brian Goldfuss, Michael Haysmer, Roz Kodish, Victoria Lindsay, Marcella Montesinos, Maria Morris, Larissa Nausedat, Lora Schmitt, Brandy Shaw, Alisa Sheyn, Alex Martinez Slaton, Jill Verban, and Michael Zeff.

Sponsors: Palm Health Foundation, Flagler Credit Union, Wyn Yelin, Financial Advisor-Edward Jones, JSS Marketing & Public Relations, PNC Bank, Ithink Financial, Belle of the Ball, Frankl & Kominsky Injury Lawyers, Via Productions Inc., Raising Canes, and Donnasellshouses.net.

Sponsorships are available. Tickets are $135pp, after Labor Day, $150pp, and a table of eight is $1250. For sponsorships, contact Miriam for more information at 561-742-6787 or miriam@schoolhousemuseum.org. To buy tickets, visit schoolhousemuseum.org.

About Schoolhouse Children’s Museum:
The Schoolhouse Children’s Museum opened in 2001 and is located in one of the first schools in Boynton Beach.  Since then, hundreds of thousands of children and families have visited the museum, where Learning is an Adventure, enjoying the wide range of programs and exhibits housed in the old Boynton School. Their mission is to inspire and engage children and families to explore, play, learn, and discover through creative, interactive opportunities that integrate the arts, humanities, and sciences in cultural and historical settings. To learn more, visit schoolhousemuseum.org.

Dance performance at Norton Museum of Art to highlight eight local choreographers, promote arts advocacy 


Aug. 26, 2024 (WEST PALM BEACH, Fla.) — Natural Movers Foundation is gearing up for its third annual performance, Open Spaces, at the Norton Museum of Art on Saturday, Sept. 28 at 2 p.m. 

The site-specific performance will feature original works and repertoire by a diverse group of eight Palm Beach County-based dance artists. Works are inspired by specific artworks and spaces at the Museum and will give the community a chance to watch inspiring, transformative choreography in an array of styles, including contemporary, ballet and hip-hop. 

“This year is critical for us as we grapple with recent news of the state’s arts funding cuts and find ways to pivot our programming,” said Ericka Squire, NMF Founder & CEO. “We are grateful for the Norton Museum of Art’s continued partnership to ensure Open Spaces continues despite this unprecedented setback. This event not only showcases local dance artists—it also gives the community a chance to see that, no matter what comes our way, Palm Beach County’s cultural sector is resilient, creative, and resourceful.”

Guests will be led throughout the museum to see each performance up close. Dance films will also be shown. Afterward, guests can enjoy a talk-back session with the choreographers about the inspiration behind their works and why community solidarity and advocating for the arts are more important than ever.

“The Norton is delighted to host the Natural Movers Foundation Open Spaces dance performance,” said Glenn Tomlinson, William Randolph Hearst Chief Officer of Learning and Community Engagement. “The choreographers’ interpretations of art on view in the Museum is not only inspiring, but they create a wonderful dialogue among art forms, artists and their audiences.”

This year’s featured choreographers include Larry Albright; Olivia Capasso; Claudia Hilda; Savannah Miller; Anna Nunes, AGWA Dance Company; Kristen Vencel, DKDC/DIY Projects; Shizu Yasuda; and Ericka Squire, Ericka Squire//The Dance Company.

If You Go:

Who: Natural Movers Foundation

What: Open Spaces dance performance

When: Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024 at 2 p.m.

Where: Norton Museum of Art (1450 South Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach, Fla., 33401)

Tickets: Museum Admission / Members FREE

More info: Space is limited. Online registration required, available Sept. 1. Details at norton.org.
Please click here to learn more about Natural Movers Foundation and Open Spaces choreographers.

ABOUT NATURAL MOVERS FOUNDATION

Natural Movers Foundation is dedicated to enhancing arts & culture in Palm Beach County by providing master class experiences to dance professionals, students and enthusiasts; teaching, creative, and networking opportunities to local choreographers and teaching artists; arts education to children and youths; and transformative dance performances for the community to enjoy. For more information about upcoming programs and performances, visit naturalmovers.org.

ABOUT THE NORTON MUSEUM OF ART

Founded in 1941 by Ralph Hubbard Norton and his wife Elizabeth Calhoun Norton, The Norton Museum of Art has grown and evolved to become one of Florida’s major cultural institutions. The Museum is internationally known for its collection of more than 8,200 works of art in American Art, Chinese Art, Contemporary Art, European Art and Photography. The Museum presents special exhibitions, lectures, tours and programs for adults and children throughout the year.

In 2019, the museum expanded to include the Kenneth C. Griffin Building, which includes 12,000 square feet of new gallery space; expanded classroom space; a larger student exhibition space; a state-of-the art, 210-seat auditorium; a new store and restaurant; and a Great Hall serving as the Museum’s “living room.” The expansion also includes a lawn for outdoor programming, or relaxing, and a sculpture garden. The project also included the renovation of six Museum-owned, 1920s-era cottages to house an artist-in-residence program, and the Museum Director’s home.

Visit the museum’s website www.norton.org or see them on social media on Instagram, Facebook and X.

Building Resilience: How to Support Your Child’s Mental Health This School Year

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By Jaime Joshi Elder

The transition from the carefree days of summer to the much more regimented school day can be challenging. Students from kindergarten to senior year can experience anxiety and stress about the new year but with some understanding and patience, parents and caregivers can support their children’s mental health and ensure they thrive, academically and emotionally. 

“The most common mental health challenges children face when returning to school are anxiety, stress, nervousness, tension,” said Olivia Marino, LMHC, Supervisor of Therapy Services at Community Partners of South Florida. 

Olivia Marino, LMHC

In addition to the pressure to perform academically, students may also experience anxiety about a new and unfamiliar routine as well as be nervous about their social life for the new year.

“Transitioning from summer to school can be a cause for anxiety in many children. One way to prepare for this is for parents to start talking about going back to school in the last weeks leading up to school start date,” Olivia said. “Another way is to have the child meet the teacher and see the new classroom to get acclimated in the new space. 

Making the unfamiliar familiar is a good coping skill and one that can be taught at home – something that Olivia encourages parents to work on with their children.

“Many common coping skills can be discussed in the home in preparation for being in the school setting,” she said. 

Techniques such as deep breathing, counting to ten, muscle relaxation, and visualizing a “happy place” can be practiced at home and when they’re employed at school, parents can discuss how these strategies worked for their child, creating an open, supportive space for reflection and growth. 

“When the child returns from school, the parent can have a conversation about how the use of coping skills went,” Olivia said. “Creating an open and safe place for discussion is extremely helpful.”

A consistent routine is the bedrock to good mental health for both children and adults. Steady and regularly sleep patterns, a well-balanced diet and daily physical activity through sport or play.

“Having a routine helps a child with structure and feel less anxious by fostering a safe environment and knowing what to expect,” said Dalad Srisuppak, PhD, Director of School Programs at Community Partners of South Florida. “Adequate sleep, nutrition and physical activity come together in nurturing a child’s physical and emotional balance to foster personal physical growth to be ready to learn and manage any emotional challenges throughout the day.”  

Dalad Srisuppak, PhD

This structure not only supports their mental health but also prepares them to manage the academic and social demands of school.

Open communication between child, parent and educator is also key to supporting good mental health and Dalad advises that parents and caregivers check-in with one another regularly in order to identify and support a child’s needs.

“When parents and teachers share concerns and a child’s strengths with each other, everyone is on the same page and better understands a child,” she said.

Palm Beach County has numerous resources for parents, children and caregivers looking to support mental health, not just during the school year but year-round and both Dalad and Olivia want parents to know that they are not alone in this journey.

In addition to the mental health services available at Community Partners of South Florida, Palm Beach County also has a robust behavioral health team embedded in the School District of Palm Beach County which offers tools, tips, and techniques for parents, as well as community resources available at no cost. 

NAMI Palm Beach County (the local chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness) is another excellent resource for local mental health support, offering numerous resources for everything from anxiety to bereavement to obsessive compulsive disorder to substance abuse recovery. 

Additionally, the 211 Helpline for Palm Beach and the Treasure Coast provides comprehensive support, covering not only mental health but also other essential services.

Supporting your child’s mental health during the back-to-school season requires a proactive approach. By identifying potential challenges early, establishing healthy routines, teaching coping skills and maintaining open communication with educators, parents can help their children navigate this transition with confidence and resilience.

Charlotte Leonard transitions from Eldercare to Leading The DRIP BaR Royal Palm Beach

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Royal Palm Beach, FL (August 27, 2024) — With over 35 years of extensive experience in healthcare operations, Charlotte Leonard is a distinguished Healthcare Executive at The DRIP BaR opening in Royal Palm Beach this October. Known for her strategic planning, regulatory compliance and cost management experiences, Charlotte previously worked as an entrepreneur in a medical spa, also with a focus on eldercare.

The DRIP BaR is a new and strong franchise that is known for leveraging health benefits and providing IV vitamin therapies that are designed to do everything from slowing the signs of aging to reducing brain fog and boosting energy. Vitamin therapy, or intravenous vitamin therapy, is the administration of nutrients and hydration directly into the bloodstream for immediate absorption. Some common benefits of IV vitamin therapies include boosted energy levels, stronger immune system, quick hydration, headache recovery, improved mental clarity, reduced anxiety symptoms, supplemental cancer treatment, anti-aging capabilities, and overall feeling of well-being. 

Charlotte’s transition from eldercare to IV vitamin therapy appealed to her because it provides an opportunity to give back to the Palm Beach County communities while building a family legacy. The DRIP BaR is considered to be an accessible luxury in a day spa environment.

The skills required to be a successful healthcare executive and an entrepreneur in a medical spa are closely aligned. Both roles require strong leadership and strategic thinking skills to navigate complex regulatory environments, increasing organizational growth. Healthcare is considered a non-passive activity where people no longer wait for an illness to strike to react. The DRIP BaR Royal Palm Beach offers alternative non-drug therapies to support a patient’s optimum health and everyday lifestyle.

The mission of The DRIP BaR intersects with Charlotte’s values when it comes to extending beyond traditional perceptions of healthcare and includes all aspects of youthful living. Each service offered at The DRIP BaR is motivated by the fundamental focus of supporting the best health for all clients.

For more information on The DRIP BaR, please visit httpshttps://thedripbar.com/royal-palm-beach-fl/

Chef Jimmy Everett from Driftwood Hosts Community Classroom Kitchen Chef’s Table Dinner

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Monday, September 9th 

Chef Jimmy Everett of Boynton Beach’s Driftwood will host an intimate dinner benefiting the Community Classroom Kitchen (CCK) on Monday, September 9th. Held at the vibrant Hub at Space of Mind in downtown Delray, these intimate gatherings invite guests to explore the innovative space and dive hands-first into culinary creativity. 

Chef Everett will prepare and serve the dinner in a way that allows guests to learn about Florida growers, ask questions and interact directly with the chef, fostering a unique connection between culinary innovators and food enthusiasts. The five-course dinner will feature a variety of Florida ingredients including Florida Royal Red shrimp, prime Quincey Cattle steak, Kai Kai black-eyed peas, local fish and 51/50 chocolate. 

Everett, a South Florida native, honed his skills in some of New York City’s top restaurants, including the acclaimed 11 Madison Park, WD50 and Marea. He traveled the globe from Hong Kong to Los Angeles before returning home. Driftwood was born from the experiences, ideas and passions that Jimmy and his wife Ilia, gained on their Journey.

Proceeds from this dinner support the CCK’s mission to enhance the well-being of South Florida families through the joy of cooking and communal dining. The CCK also hosts hands-on cooking classes for adults and kids along with various other food, art and community-inspired events like family-friendly cook-offs and live music nights. The next Chef’s Table is scheduled for Friday, October 18th with Chef Michael Salmon from Flybrid. 

Tickets are limited, and this event is expected to sell out. For a complete list of programming options, visit findspaceofmind.com/register-for-a-program. 

MENU: 

Two welcome bites will greet you when you arrive, and then get ready for… 

Poached Florida Royal Red shrimp with local lychee and tomato vinaigrette & fennel

Prime Quincey Cattle steak tartare with smoked onion & Manchego cheese

Handmade Cavatelli Carbonara with house-smoked heritage pork jowl & Kai Kai black-eyed peas

Jerk local fish with local avocado mojo & local jackfruit

51/50 dark chocolate tart with local passion fruit, cashews & thyme 

WHERE:

The Hub at Space of Mind

101 NW 1st Ave Delray Beach, FL 33444, Delray Beach, FL 33444 

Free Parking

WHEN: 

Monday, September 9 at 7pm 

TICKETS: 

$125 per person | $50 wine pairing

https://e.givesmart.com/events/D2v

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY CLASSROOM PROJECT: The Community Classroom Project (CCP) is an innovative 501(c)3 nonprofit launched by Space of Mind. CCP bridges the gap between students, parents, educators, schools, mental health providers, and the community, providing experiential learning, educational resources, entrepreneurship opportunities, and scholarships. Their goal is to rethink education and reduce school-related stress.  Their Community Classroom Kitchen (CCK) project is on a mission to enhance mental and physical health for families in South Florida through the art of cooking and communal dining. It starts by training a passionate and skilled culinary workforce for the restaurant industry. www.yourccp.org | @communityclassroomproject

Palm Beach County Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society Strongly Opposes Public Destruction of Endangered Lands at Jonathan Dickinson State Park in Martin County

Public Meeting Scheduled for August 27 in Stuart

(West Palm Beach, FL – August 22, 2024) The Palm Beach County Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society (PBCC FNPS), dedicated to promoting the preservation, conservation and restoration of native plants and native plant communities of Florida, is strongly opposed to plans that would replace large stretches of Florida’s majestic Jonathan Dickinson State Park at Hobe Sound with three new golf courses.

The nonprofit organization encourages opponents to this effort to attend a public meeting on Tuesday, August 27, 3:00 to 4:00 pm, at the River Room, 201 SW Flagler Avenue in Stuart, for a presentation by the Department of Environmental Protection regarding the proposed amendment to the Jonathan Dickinson State Park unit management plan to authorize the sale of 1,000 acres of park property to a developer to construct two 18-hole golf courses and one 9-hole golf course, removing the observation tower and boardwalk now used by many visitors to observe native vegetation and wildlife in the park.

Allegedly, people can obtain a copy of the agenda from the Department of Environmental Protection by e-mailing a request to: JonathanDickinsonSPpublicmeeting@floridadep.gov.

This magnificent State Park was established in 1950, and encompasses endangered Atlantic Coastal Scrub forests, home to the southernmost remaining population of Florida Scrub Jay and a large population of the Four-petal Pawpaw, both Federally listed species.  The site also protects the Loxahatchee Wild and Scenic River, freshwater and saltwater wetlands, all original native habitats of “Real Florida.”  Whatever decisions were made in recent months or years were only announced recently, with a one-week notice for a public meeting, followed two days later by a final advisory group session. 

In early August, the Office of Park Planning was directed by the Executive Office of the Governor to compose nine amendments to existing management plans for nine state parks. The office was directed to drop/hold other tasks and compose these amendments as quickly as possible.

Traditionally, management plans and management plan amendments require general public meetings and advisory group meetings. To fulfill these requirements, presumably as quickly as possible, eight public meetings across eight counties are going to be scheduled for August 27, and one advisory group session is going to be held on Thursday, August 29. The advisory group session will be held via Teams, where all 9 amendments are to be discussed.

The Office of Park Planning has been directed to play pre-recorded presentations, then receive and record feedback at these meetings without answering questions.

Following this public engagement phase, the Office of Park Planning will be submitting these documents to the Acquisition and Restoration Council (ARC) for approval, which would allow DEP to begin seeking funding and laying the groundwork for construction. The Office of Park Planning is to have these documents submitted to ARC in time for presumed approval in September.

The amendments propose the following, listed below in order of severity regarding pending habitat loss:

Jonathan Dickinson State Park (Martin County):

+ An 18-hole and 9-hole golf course in the Atlantic Ridge scrub community east of the Brightline, encompassing roughly 550 acres

+ An 18-hole golf course in the Atlantic Ridge scrub west of the Brightline, encompassing roughly 500 acres

Anastasia State Park (St. Johns County):

+ A park lodge with up to 350 rooms in the maritime hammock

+ A disc golf course in the maritime hammock

+ Pickleball courts in the maritime hammock

Topsail Hill Preserve State Park (Walton County):

+ A park lodge with up to 350 rooms

+ A disc golf course in the scrubby flatwoods south of the cabin area

+ Pickleball courts

Camp Helen State Park (Bay County):

+ New cabins and/or glamping at the northern end of the park on Lake Powell, within Panhandle Coastal scrub

Grayton Beach State Park (Walton County):

+ A new restroom at the beach access area near the cabins

+ 10 new cabins

+ A disc golf course

+ Pickleball courts

Hillsborough River State Park (Hillsborough County):

+ A disc golf course

+ Pickleball courts

Honeymoon Island State Park (Pinellas County):

+ Pickleball courts

Dr. Von Mizell – Eula Johnson State Park (Broward County)

+ Pickleball courts

Oleta River State Park:

+ Disc golf course

+ Pickleball court

About the Palm 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.

RECORD-BREAKING NOMINATIONS HIGHLIGHT NONPROFIT CAUSES, STAFF, AND VOLUNTEERS AT THE 8TH ANNUAL HATS OFF NONPROFIT AWARDS

(West Palm Beach, Fla.) Friday, August 23-Nonprofits First proudly announces the record-breaking number of nominations to honor the local nonprofit sector in Palm Beach County during the 8th Annual Hats Off Nonprofit Awards on Tuesday, October 8th, at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in the Cohen Pavilion.

Nominations were accepted for awards in twelve categories: Nonprofit Volunteer of the Year, Nonprofit MVP, Nonprofit Professional of the Year, Nonprofit Executive of the Year, Lifetime Achievement, Community Hero, Nonprofit of the Year (small, medium, and large), Community Collaborators, Nonprofit Innovation, and Arts & Culture Impact sponsored by the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County. Awards for Best Hat and the People’s Choice will be voted on by attendees and awarded the night of the event.

The 8th Annual Hats Off Nonprofit Awards celebrates nonprofits in Palm Beach County that dedicate themselves to making our community a better place to live and work. These organizations deserve to be honored. The honorees from the past Hats Off Nonprofit Awards will be recognized during the evening.

The fun evening will kick off with celebratory music by the nonprofit organization Digital Vibez. The party continues with special guest emcee Bill Bone. Attire is business and cocktail. Guests are encouraged to wear a hat of any kind, big or small, and can be as creative as they wish. Tickets include food and drinks catered by The Lessing’s Hospitality Group, and parking in the covered garage is complimentary.

“Celebrating the accomplishments of nonprofit causes, their leaders, staff, and volunteers is essential, as it not only honors their dedication and hard work but also inspires others to join the fight for a better world. A record-breaking 180 nominations for this year’s Hats Off Nonprofit Awards reflects the importance of recognizing our nonprofit community, and Nonprofits First is honored to host this event on October 8th at the Kravis Center,” said Trudy Crowetz, CEO of Nonprofits First.

Tables of ten are on sale for members at $1800, nonmembers at $2,000, and sponsorships are also available at www.hatsoffawards.org. Individual ticket sales will go on sale Tuesday, September 3, for $180 (members) per person and $200 (nonmembers) per person. The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts is located at 701 Okeechobee Blvd, West Palm Beach, FL 33401.

Hats Off Nonprofit Awards Calendar Listing:
5:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, October 8th, at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in the Cohen Pavilion. This fundraising event will celebrate and honor Palm Beach County nonprofit causes, their professionals, and volunteers. For more information and tickets, visit www.hatsoffawards.org.

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.