Challenges of Voting with Disabilities – August 21
(West Palm Beach, FL – June 27, 2024) The League of Women Voters of Palm Beach County (LWVPBC)is inviting friends and supporters to two informative Hot Topic meetings on Zoom this summer focused on this year’s elections:
Debra Chandler, Esq., Co-President of the League of Women Voters of Florida, and longtime board member of LVPBC. A lawyer by trade, she previously served 25 years as an Assistant Public Defender in the 15th Judicial Circuit Court of Florida (Palm Beach County).
Marilyn Baldwin, President of the Central Florida Chapter of the National Federation of the Blind, a member of the Board of Directors for the League of Women Voters of Orange County, and Chair of the Quality Assurance Task Force and Disabled Representative on the Orange, Osceola, and Seminole Counties Transportation Disadvantaged Local Coordinating Board.
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 lwvpbc.org or
Lake Worth, FL (June 26, 2024) – Shenandoah Medical Care Center is celebrating its eight-year milestone with the expansion of services offered at their medical treatment center in Palm Beach County by hosting an Open House and Ribbon Cutting on Thursday, July 18th from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. The community is invited to attend the event at Shenandoah Medical Care Center’s facility at 6234 S Congress Ave Suite F-1 in Lake Worth Beach, FL.
The Open House is a way to honor the expansion of advanced patient care, and will include interactive demonstrations on the newest innovative medical treatments offered at their facility. This includes EmSculpt Neo and EmSella, both FDA approved non-invasive devices that will be available for attendees to learn about and experience for themselves.
Joy Fuller, AANP Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner, approaches healthcare with an emphasis on patient education, health promotion, and illness prevention, which constitutes a substantial component of Shenandoah Medical Care Center.
“We give thanks to God for allowing us this privilege to serve humankind through the vehicle of health care,” shares Shenandoah Medical AANP Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner Joy Fuller. “Whether it be through our primary care services, mental health and weight loss efforts to combat obesity, or utilizing our new non-invasive High Frequency, Electromagnetic technology, we look forward to the future of greater years ahead and seek to remain trailblazers in this industry.”
Bringing these important medical treatments to Palm Beach County gives the community new options for weight loss and sexual health. EmSculpt Neo, a noninvasive device that reduces fat and builds muscle simultaneously, represents an outstanding approach to body contouring through combining radiofrequency and high-intensity electromagnetic energies.
The second device, EmSella, provides noninvasive treatment for incontinence and sexual dysfunction. It uses noninvasive electromagnetic treatment that specifically relates to pelvic floor issues, effectively targeting and contracting pelvic muscles to offer a non-surgical solution for improving urinary incontinence in both men and women.
Attendees of Shenandoah Medical Care Center’s open house will enhance their learning and be given an opportunity to experience what each treatment offers first-hand. There will be a raffle for a chance to win EmSculpt Neo, EmSella, and other special offers.
Palm Beach County, Fla. (June 24, 2024): Boys Town South Florida knows that hot summer days are often filled with trips to the swimming pool and the beach for families here in sunny South Florida. As kids are out for summer, Boys Town South Florida shares that special care needs to be taken to ensure that all children, especially those on the autism spectrum, are safe around water.
“Drowning in children on the spectrum has long been a concern, but it is a very preventable cause of death,” said Boys Town South Florida Behavioral Health Clinic’s staff psychologist, Marcela Galicia, Ph. D. “Many children with autism are prone to wandering and not always aware of their surroundings. This puts them at-risk, especially around water, and that is why supervision, along with teaching and practicing important safety skills, are so important.”
Here are some safety tips from Boys Town to enable families of children on the spectrum to enjoy a safe and happy summer that includes water-related fun:
· Supervision – Never leave a child unattended and make sure that they are fully supervised at all times. This can be challenging, so tag-teaming the responsibility between parents or caregivers is highly recommended.
· Locks, Gates, and Tracking Devices—Childproof locks, alarms, and gates around swimming pools are imperative. Tracking devices are also a good idea, especially when children are around lakes, rivers, or the ocean, and life jackets should always be worn around open water.
· Swimming lessons – Enroll your child in swimming lessons. Learning to swim is essential for children with autism, and many become excellent swimmers with training and practice.
· Teach replacement behaviors – If needed, therapists can help you teach your child skills that can prevent wandering/elopement (e.g., verbally or non-verbally requesting permission before leaving the house, hand holding without letting go, responding to their name, waiting, etc.).
“The good news is that children with autism, while they may learn differently, can become proficient at many skills with training and practice,” said Galicia. “Therapy also can be a big help in keeping kids with autism safe, by helping them to understand the dangers of wandering and the importance of always asking for permission before setting out on their own.”
For over a century, Boys Town has been a beacon of hope, transforming the lives of America’s children and families through innovative youth, research, and healthcare programs. Boys Town South Florida has been providing life-changing care to area children and families since 1991. Our programs and services are part of the Boys Town national network and include the organization’s research-proven methods, which ensure that troubled children and families across the country receive the right care, at the right time, in the right way. You can find more information about Boys Town online at www.boystown.org.
WHAT: Back to School Bash at The Foundations School
Families are invited to tour The Foundations School at the Center for Creative Education’s campus to learn about enrollment for the upcoming school year. Free services available to all Palm Beach County students include back to school health exams with FoundCare, haircuts and manicures, eye exams and glasses, backpacks and more! Food trucks, community organizations, local vendors and a DJ will be located onsite.Children will also have the option to have their faces painted, participate in a variety of games and activities, such as double-dutch jump rope, karaoke.
The Foundations School’s creativity-infused curriculum emphasizes arts integration while providing a whole-child focus, fostering a safe and loving environment with intimate class sizes of 15 students or less.
WHO: The event is open to families and children of all ages. The Foundations School offers education for students in grades K-5.
WHEN: Saturday, July 13 from 10:00 a.m. to 3 p.m.
WHERE: Center for Creative Education at The Foundations School; 2400 Metrocentre Blvd.; West Palm Beach, FL 33407
WHY: The Foundations School at CCE is a K-5 independent school focused on improving literacy and weaving the arts into academic subjects. At the end of this year, 80% of third graders at The Foundations School were reading on or above grade level compared to 21.5% in surrounding schools and 33% of 4th grade students nationwide. The Foundations School aims to disrupt educational inequality; the school uses a sliding fee scale to determine family contributions to tuition and applies significant scholarships to cover the balance. This ensures that no family is turned away for an inability to pay.
HOW MUCH: The Back to School Bash is FREE to attend.
CONTACT: To RSVP as a vendor or community partner for the Back to School Bash, email Deniece Williams at deniecew@cceflorida.org. For more information, please visit www.cceflorida.org.
West Palm Beach, Fla. (Monday, June 24, 2024)—Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties held their annual bowling fundraiser, Bowl for Kids’ Sake, on Friday, June 7, at Greenacres Bowl in West Palm Beach.
The not-for-profit brought the community together to raise awareness and donations while having fun. With offices in Palm Beach and Marin counties, this Big Brothers Big Sisters chapter meets the community’s needs by providing one-to-one mentoring and empowering every kid to graduate with a plan for their future.
Bowl for Kids’ Sake is a fundraiser in which teams create fun team names, dress in theme/color, and set out to raise money. Some win prizes for their efforts. All participants have fun at the bowling party to celebrate. There are over 27 bowling teams and over 100 bowlers from the local business community and the public.
Bowl for Kids’ Sake is Big Brothers Big Sisters’ signature fundraiser. Every year, half a million people across America come together to have fun and raise money to support Big Brothers Big Sisters. It is a fun way for individuals and companies to impact our community.
“We are deeply grateful to everyone who has supported our mission and contributed to the well-being of our Bigs and Littles. Your generosity helps our agency connect young people with mentors, fostering a stronger and more vibrant community—one meaningful connection at a time,” says Yvette Acevedo, CEO.
Winners include the Most Spirited Team, D16 Palm Beach Sheriff’s Office, the Best Team Name, Livin’ On A Spare, the Top Fundraising Team, Gutter Nonsense, and the Top Fundraiser, Paul Pickett from Gutter Nonsense.
Event sponsors include DEX Imaging, The Wawa Foundation, FPL, Haynes Scaffolding Inc., Innovative Telecom Solutions, After Hours Pediatrics, Duffy’s Sports Grill, Victory Counseling, NetOne Technologies Inc., Schumacher Auto Group, Kelly Kronenberg, Jacob & Greenfield PLLC, Lytal, Reiter, Smith, Ivey and Fronrath, Cleveland Clinic UES, and Thrivent.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties have a waiting list for boys needing a big brother. Their recruitment campaign, It Takes Little to be BIG!, is ongoing to enlist adult mentors. Parents should also become aware of the programs available to their children through BBBS. To learn more, visit mentorbig.org.
About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties: BBBS provides children facing adversity aged 6-17 with volunteer mentors who serve as positive role models. Since 1986, the organization has provided mentors to children in Martin County and, since July 2010, in Palm Beach County. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties has been recognized as a Big Brothers Big Sisters of America Growth Award Winner for program excellence in 2023. Out of more than 230 Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies nationwide, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties is one of 100 organizations to receive this top honor. Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BSA) recognized the Martin County organization in 2007 as one of the thirty-five best-performing agencies nationwide. Visit www.mentorbig.org to learn more.
The arts nonprofit is calling on the community to help replace air conditioners
West Palm Beach, Fla. (June 20, 2024) — Things are heating up at the Armory Art Center, but not in a good way!
It’s no secret that South Florida summers are sweltering. The Armory’s air conditioning system is currently struggling to keep the historic campus comfortable for visitors, students, faculty, and staff.
This summer, the Armory is launching “Beat the Heat”, a matching gift campaign to raise critical funds for new air conditioners. With the community’s support, the Armory Art Center aims to install state-of-the-art air conditioners that keeps its studios, galleries, and classrooms refreshingly cool.
Thanks to a generous benefactor, every donation—no matter the amount—will be matched. By giving to the campaign, community members can help Armory guests feel comfortable and fully immerse themselves in their craft this summer.
“The ‘Beat the Heat’ campaign will ensure that our visitors can focus on creativity without sweltering temperatures,” said Jill Brown, Armory Art Center CEO. “We are grateful for the community’s unwavering support over the past three decades—and we invite them now to join us in creating a more comfortable, inspiring space at the Armory Art Center!”
How to help:
Donate! Every dollar counts. Whether it’s $10, $100, or $1000, your gift will be matched and put toward the new AC system. There are several ways to donate:
Visit us to make a gift—or mail donations to the Armory Art Center (811 Park Place, West Palm Beach)
Share our campaign with friends, family, and fellow art enthusiasts. Let’s create a buzz, keep the momentum going, and beat the heat together!
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About the Armory Art Center:
Having served the community for over 30 years, the Armory Art Center’s art school and galleries provide creative opportunities to enhance your life. The mission of the Armory Art Center is to inspire the creation and experience of art and the Armory Art Center’s vision is to be the leading community resource for arts education. Serving over 3,000 students annually, the Armory Art Center offers 160 courses per term in six terms throughout the year to students ranging in age from preschool to retiree. Classes in drawing, painting, photography, jewelry, fiber & textiles, ceramics, and sculpture are held in 12 state-of-the-art studios. Twelve exhibitions are hosted annually in three galleries. The Armory’s exhibitions, lectures, and special events are open to the public.
The Armory is proud to have been the recipient of several awards in recent years, including The Palm Beach Post’s Best of Palm Beach County (2022 Best Art Gallery), Chamber of Commerce of The Palm Beaches (2021 Nonprofit of the Year), The Flamingos: Florida Weekly’s Best Awards (2021 Best Place to Create Art), the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County’s Muse Awards (2020 Legacy Award) and more.
For information, visit www.armoryart.org or call (561) 832-1776. The Armory Art Center is located at 811 Park Place, West Palm Beach, Fla., 33401.
+ Full Moon Release Ceremony with Sacred Cacao & Sound Bath –July 21
+ Awakening Hearts: A Cacao Ceremony & Sound Immersion Experience – July 28
(West Palm Beach, FL – June 17, 2024) With the hazy, crazy, lazy days of summer at hand, Friends of the Mounts Botanical Garden will host 31 fun, informative and healthy workshops and events throughout July.
“We continue to offer exciting and elevated programming every month, featuring both new and traditional events—all at our beautiful 20-acre oasis, located just minutes from downtown West Palm Beach,” invites Mounts Interim Co-Director Misty Stoller.
July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Watercolor at the Garden
with Carl Stoveland
Tuesdays, 10:00 am to 12:30 pm $20 for members; $25 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission). Classes are nonrefundable. Registration is required; class size is limited to 15 adults.
Join artist Carl Stoveland and share the love of art and nature with fellow art enthusiasts. This class is for adults only. Bring your pencils, pens, paints sketchpad or watercolor pad, (or journal) and your favorite photographic device (i.e., cell phone camera or tablet). Some experience preferred. True newbies should consider the beginners class.Each week or two, the class will start a new painting project. Time will be split between demos by Stoveland and supervised painting time for participants. Subjects will be chosen by instructor with assistance from class.
Tuesdays, 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm $20 for members; $25 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission). Classes are nonrefundable. Registration is required; class size is limited to 15 adults.
If you have always wanted to try watercolor but been overwhelmed by it then this is the class for you. Geared toward novice watercolor enthusiasts, this class will focus on the basics, focusing on a new technique and a simple painting each week. Join artist Carl Stoveland and share your love of art and nature with fellow art enthusiasts. This class is for adults only. Bring pencils, pens, paints sketchpad or watercolor pad, (or journal) and your favorite photographic device (i.e., cell phone camera or tablet). Each week or two, the class will start a new painting project. Time will be split between demos by Stoveland and supervised painting time for participants.
Palm Beach County residents receive FREE admission to the Garden on the first Wednesday of every month. Visitors must show proof of residency for entry.
July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
Qi Gong
with Roxanne Cumberland
Wednesdays, 10:00 am to 11:00 am
$12 for members; $18 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission). Classes are nonrefundable.
Registration is required; size of “inside” classes is limited to 20 adults.
Relieve stress and increase metabolism, flexibility, and strength. Qi Gong (pronounced chee-gong) is an ancient Chinese exercise and healing technique. The exercises include simple, slow movements (which mimic nature), meditation, and focused breathing—similar to Tai Chi but less structured.
$20 members; $25 nonmembers (includes full Garden admission).
Registration is required; class size is limited to 15 adults; classes are nonrefundable.
Tai Chi offers a wonderful opportunity for individuals seeking a gentle yet impactful exercise routine. Tailored for newcomers and the curious alike, this class introduces the foundational principles and movements, known as Forms, of Tai Chi. With a focus on enhancing overall health and well-being, Tai Chi emphasizes mindfulness and balance. Engaging in the Forms is believed to pave the way to improved health and inner peace. Wear sneakers or closed comfortable shoes and loose top and pants. Please bring a towel and water.
New Moon Cacao Ceremony and Sound Immersion Experience
Sunday, 10 am to 12:00 pm
$35 for members; $45 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission)
Registration is required; class size is limited. 30 adults; classes are nonrefundable.
Come be inspired in the Herb Garden of Well-Being and explore the healing power of the cacao under the shade of the Garden’s cacao tree. Upon arrival, a ceremonial smudging and blessing will be offered, creating a space to release the daily burdens that weigh upon you. Following this, attendees will be presented with a cup of the finest Ceremonial Cacao, taking part in our sacred heart-opening Cacao Ceremony while aligning with the new moon’s energies to set an intention for opening your heart to receive. The Cacao serves to relax, unlock your heart chakra, and make one more receptive to the forthcoming healing experience. Finally, gently transition into a Yoga Nidra meditation and a deep sound healing session. During this time, become fully immersed in the soothing and restorative energies of the Gong, Crystal singing bowls, and other high-frequency instruments.
Note: Please bring a yoga mat and blanket. Also, no alcohol on the day of the ceremony and caffeine three hours before and after the event.
The Birds & the Bees: Create a Pollinator Friendly Garden
with Nada Vergili (pictured above)
Thursday, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
$25 members; $35 nonmembers (includes full Garden admission).
Registration is required; class size is limited to 30 adults; classes are nonrefundable.
Learn about the essential role pollinators play in our food supply and why it’s more important than ever for gardeners to include plants that can feed and support them. We’ll look at some Florida-friendly landscaping practices that will turn your backyard into a butterfly’s favorite hangout. Create a mini-ecosystem by adding grace and beauty to your property, and a Zen retreat for yourself and nature. Class includes a pollinator plant to take home and a tour of the Butterfly and Native Gardens, as well as a visit to Mounts Nursery.
Saturdays, 10:30 am to 12:30 am(includes full Garden admission)
Trilogy Series: $120 members; $135 for nonmembers
Individual Class: $45 members; $50 nonmembers
Registration is required; Class size limited to 45 adults; classes are nonrefundable.
The popular Orchid Trilogy workshops are back in July. These are comprehensive guides and perfect classes to take for anyone growing orchids in South Florida.
++ July 13
Orchid Basics
Newcomers to orchids will learn how to choose the correct plants for their growing area and what orchids need to grow and flower. Sign up and start your orchid journey here! Plants and potting supplies will be available for sale from Broward Orchid Supply before and after class.
++ July 20
Orchid Repotting and Orchid Mounting techniques
Learn how to repot your orchid and how often your orchid should be repotted, learn about different kinds of potting media to use and the proper pot or basket to use. Also learn how orchids can be mounted on items such as cork, a tree fern or a branch. Plants and potting supplies will be available for sale from Broward Orchid Supply before and after class
++ July 27
Training Your Eye – Orchid Pests, Disease & Cures
Learn about pests and diseases that can affect your orchids. Bacteria, fungus and insects can all damage your orchids, discover how to spot them early and what to do if you find them. Students will be taught how to identify the culprits, what products to use to get rid of them and how to avoid them in the future. Orchids and Orchid leaves can be brought in for diagnosis but must be placed inside a sealed plastic bag to prevent contamination of other plants. Plants and potting supplies will be available for sale from Broward Orchid Supply before and after class.
FREE for MBG members and children under 6; $20 for nonmember adults; $18 for seniors 65+, college students, and military with ID; $13 for children 6-17. Ticket includes full Garden admission.
Note: Dogs are FREE for Mounts members and $5 for nonmembers.
This dog-and-family-friendly monthly event is held throughout the Garden. Bring your favorite pooch and enjoy a relaxed garden stroll. There are many great spots to capture family photos for posting online with #mountsbotanicalgarden.
Guidelines:
+ Non-retractable leashes only; retractable leashes are not permitted.
+ No more than one dog per adult will be admitted.
+ Rabies vaccination must be current.
+ Visitors should bring their own water and treats for the puppies.
For details, please visit:
https://www.mounts.org/events
July 15 – 19 | July 22 – 26
Garden Explorers Summer Camp
Children ages 7 to 11can explore the amazing and science-based wonders of Mounts Botanical Garden. Camp activities take place both outside and inside. Campers will have access to a cool, safe, indoor space when needed due to excessive heat or the likeliness of rain. Attend one or both summer camp sessions. Each week will feature something new and different for the Garden Explorers to enjoy. Camp registration is limited to 30 participants each week.
++ CAMP HOURS: Monday through Friday; 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
++ CAMP FEES: $250 per week for Mounts members; $290 per week for non-members; $50 for optional extended care (covers 8:00 am to 9:00 am and 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm).
$25 for members; $35 for nonmembers(includesfullGarden admission).
Registration isrequired; class size is limited to 15 adults; classes are nonrefundable.
Forest Bathing—also known as Nature Therapy—is an immersive experience in nature that gives participants an opportunity to reset their outlook on life and have an encounter with nature in a way that they have never-before experienced. It is a sensory practice away from phones, computers, and social media and back to what the body yearns for—a connection with nature, a sense of peace, a sense of relaxation, and a sense of being in the present moment. It provides the perfect time to become a human “be-ing” instead of a human “do-ing”. During a Forest Bathing experience, attendees will be invited to slow down and reconnect with nature’s perfect balance using their senses to see the sunlight playing through the leaves, smell the flowers, and feel and hear the gentle wind whispering to return to one’s native roots and discover a deeper self. The nature encounter concludes with a tea ceremony to connect with other like-minded nature lovers. Forest Bathing has been scientifically proven to boost immune strength, lift depression, reduce stress, and improve sleep. But beyond these physiological changes, this contemplative experience demonstrates how important it is for well-being to take time in nature on a daily basis.
Note: Please plan to arrive 15 minutes before start time and bring a chair or yoga mat.
To register, please visit:
https://www.mounts.org/events/month/2024-07
July 21
Full Moon Release Ceremony with Sacred Cacao and Sound Bath
Sunday, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
$35 for members; $45 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission)
Registration is required; class size is limited to30 adults;classes are nonrefundable.
Come be inspired in the Herb Garden of Well-Being as we explore the healing power of the sound and your own intention and immerse yourself in the transformative power of nature during the Full Moon Flower Release Ceremony. This awe-inspiring gathering takes place in a tranquil garden, carefully adorned with aromatic flowers and lush greenery. The Casa Rituals philosophy is deeply rooted in helping to bring everyday mindful intention to the busy modern-day person. This is achieved by creating a deeper and more aligned space, working with the vibration of sound healing and sacred rituals for internal peace and harmony. Upon arrival attendees will receive a ceremonial smudging and blessing, helping to release any burdens from day-to day life. Then they will be given a cup of the highest quality, Ceremonial Cacao to take part in a sacred heart-opening Cacao Ceremony. The Cacao works to relax, open the heart chakra, and help be receptive to the healing one will experience.
We will continue with Release Ritual and learn how to release that no longer serves you with Intention and Grace and with power of Full Moon. Finally, participant will relax into Yoga Nidra mediation and deep sound healing during which you will be immersed in the healing energies of the Gong, Crystal singing bowls and other high-frequency instruments.
Note: Please bring a yoga mat and blanket. Also, no alcohol on the day of the ceremony and caffeine three hours before and after the event.
To register, please visit:
https://www.mounts.org/events/month/2024-07
July 28
Awakening Hearts:
A Cacao Ceremony & Sound Immersion Experience
with Casa Rituals
Sunday, 10:00 am to 11:30 am
$25 for members; $35 for nonmembers(includesfullGarden admission).
Registration isrequired; class size is limited to 30 adults; classes are nonrefundable.
Under the guidance of instructors Marit Tuisk and David Lepp, participants will receive a ceremonial smudging and blessing upon arrival to release the burdens of day-to-day life and will be given a cup of the highest quality, Ceremonial Cacao to take part in a sacred heart-opening Cacao Ceremony. This will be followed by a Yoga Nidra mediation and deep sound healing during which everyone will be immersed in the healing energies of the Gong, Crystal singing bowls and other high-frequency instruments.
Note: Please bring a yoga mat or blanket, and do not drink alcohol on the day of the ceremony or consume caffeine three hours before and after the event.
To register, please visit:
https://www.mounts.org/events/month/2024-07
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.
Summer-long collaboration with local Elks Lodge focuses on flag education
WEST PALM BEACH, FL (June 18, 2024) – On Saturday, June 15, the City of West Palm Beach and the West Palm Beach Elks Lodge #1352 announced that they have formed a partnership to educate the public on how to handle properly, display, regard and retire the American flag. Along with the educational component, the summer-long “Respect the U.S. Flag” program also includes several locations and opportunities where the public can drop off any worn or distressed U.S. flags for proper disposal.
“The U.S. flag has a rich history representing the United States of America,” said Cathleen Ward, West Palm Beach City Commission President, who gave remarks from the Elks Lodge to celebrate the collaboration. “It is important that we all understand its significance and the flag code, which dictates how it should always be respected – including its disposal. I am grateful to our community events team for their leadership in working with the Elks Lodge and our West Palm Beach Fire Department to provide this resource to the public.”
In 1907, the Grand Lodge of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks designated, by resolution, June 14 as Flag Day. The Grand Lodge of the Order adopted mandatory observance of the occasion by every Lodge in 1911, and that requirement continues. The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks is the first and only fraternal body to require formal observance of Flag Day.
The Flag Code was first formulated by the National Flag Conference meeting in Washington, D.C., on June 14 – 15, 1923, and the American Legion later passed a resolution about flag retirement ceremonies in 1937. The long-approved method to properly destroy an American flag is by way of a ceremonial burning. After remarks were given at the event, a local Boy Scout Troop #199 folded and burned a flag ready to be retired.
Above: Exalted Ruler of West Palm Beach Elks Lodge #1352 Jack DiCampli, West Palm Beach Commission President Cathleen Ward, West Palm Beach Community Events Manager Mary Pinak.
Nearly all West Palm Beach Fire Stations and the Elks Lodge #1352 will collect flags through August 31. The fire stations will have a drop box outside and can receive flags 24/7, and the Elks will receive flags Tuesday through Saturday from 3 – 8 p.m. Additionally, the public can bring their U.S. flags to 4th on Flagler, where the West Palm Beach Fraternal Order of Firefighters and the Elks will have representatives on Flagler Drive between N. Clematis St. and S. Clematis St. to educate the public and receive flags. The Elks will also be at several Clematis by Night events throughout the summer, including June 27, July 18, August 22 and August 29.
Addresses for all participating locations are:
West Palm Beach Elks Lodge #1352 (6188 Belvedere Rd.)
Clematis by Night and 4th on Flagler (100 N. Clematis St.)
Fire Station 1 (500 North Dixie Hwy.)
Fire Station 2 (4301 South Dixie Hwy.)
Fire Station 3 (5050 Broadway)
Fire Station 4 (1718 Parker Ave.)
Fire Station 5 (700 North Congress Ave.)
First Station 6 (3033 Cumberland Dr.)
Fire Station 7 (8007 Okeechobee Blvd.)
Fire Station 8 (10965 Northlake Blvd.)
“We are grateful to the City of West Palm Beach for their partnership in raising awareness of this important protocol,” said Exalted Ruler Jack DiCampli. “Many people are unaware of proper flag procedures, and we want them to know that the Elks Lodge is here as a great community resource. We look forward to providing even more local services when our new facility opens in a couple of years.”
The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks (BPOE) is a 501(c)(8) organization that focuses on charitable and social initiatives. The Elks are intimately involved with their communities, offering various philanthropic activities, including programs for veterans and youth, scholarships, drug awareness and prevention programs, and even emergency relief during natural disasters. The organization is structured into local lodges, state associations and a national governing body. Locally, Lodge #1352 provides school supplies to six local elementary schools and provides scholarships to high school seniors on a local and national level.
“Every year, 4th on Flagler includes a meaningful Military Honor Ceremony,” said Mary Pinak, Community Events Manager for the City of West Palm Beach. “It has always been incredibly important that our event reflects the significance of Independence Day. This year, though, we wanted to expand that meaningfulness with an educational component centered on the flag that could last throughout the summer. We are grateful to the Elks for their partnership and for making this collaboration successful.”
4th on Flagler, the City’s annual Independence Day celebration, will take place on Thursday, July 4, on the West Palm Beach Waterfront from 6 – 10 p.m. The event features live music, family-friendly activities, and vendors who offer food and drinks for purchase. An 18-minute fireworks display by Pyrotecnico will culminate the evening over the Intracoastal Waterway at 9:09 p.m. Several Elk Lodge 1352 members, who are veterans, will also be recognized on stage during the Military Honor Ceremony in appreciation for their service.
4th on Flagler is produced by the City of West Palm Beach. 4th on Flagler sponsors to date include the West Palm Beach Community Redevelopment Agency, NewDay USA, Informa Markets, Palm Beach International Boat Show, Town of Palm Beach, FPL, Discover The Palm Beaches, Bill Bone Bike Law, BNT Impact Windows & Doors, Palm Beach County Supervisor of Elections, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Health Specialty Center, PDQ Restaurant, WPB Magazine, WPBF 25 News, WPBF 25 Special: 4th on Flagler LIVE Fireworks, 97.9 WRMF, SUNNY 107.9, X 102.3, New Country 103.1, PARTY 96.3, Fox Sports 640 South Florida, News Talk 850 WFTL, Jimmy John’s, SWA, Duffy’s Sports Grill, Inscription West Palm Beach, the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office and West Palm Beach Elks Lodge #1352.
For more information about the “Respect the U.S. Flag” program, 4th on Flagler, or other City of West Palm Beach events, visit www.wpb.org/events, call (561) 822-1515 (TTY: 800-955-8771), or follow the City of West Palm Beach on Facebook @CityofWPB and on X and Instagram @thecityofwpb. To keep up with the City’s event news, follow @eventswpb on Instagram and Facebook.
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About the City of West Palm Beach: The City of West Palm Beach is a vibrant and dynamic City located on the Atlantic coast of Florida. With a rich history, a thriving arts and cultural scene, and a commitment to sustainability, the City of West Palm Beach is a great place to live, work, and play. As one of the three largest cities making up the South Florida region, and the central City of Palm Beach County, West Palm Beach is a vibrant, growing, waterfront City that seamlessly blends the business advantages available in the region with a more refined and relaxed environment for living and working, making it an exceptional destination for both residents and professionals alike. To learn more about the City of West Palm Beach, visit us on our official website, or follow us on our social media: Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly known as Twitter), and/or LinkedIn. To keep up with the City’s event news, follow @eventswpb on Instagram and Facebook.
