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Churches make sustainable health changes with help from American Heart Association

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‘Go Red Sundays’ series sponsored by Florida Power & Light Company provides resources for five churches across the state in 2023

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla., (Dec. 20, 2023) – The American Heart Association brings heart health resources to community members in many ways to meet people where they are. That includes sharing resources at schools, offices and even churches.

Through the Association’s Go Red Sundays program sponsored by Florida Power & Light Company, the American Heart Association offices in Palm Beach County, Broward County, Miami-Dade County and Pensacola worked with five area churches in 2023 to host heart health events, and three of those churches have launched sustainable health changes. These projects have so far reached an estimated 3,650 people.

“The opportunity to connect our local communities with health resources in a way that engages and brings them together is vital,” says Kate Cotner, director of community engagement for Florida Power & Light Company. “We are proud to be part of these changes that are helping people live longer, healthier lives.”

These changes have included providing blood pressure training and equipment so congregants can get their blood pressure checked for free through their church and get connected to medical assistance if the pressure is high, implementing nutritional guidelines and providing cold storage for churches with on-site food pantries, and putting cardiac emergency response plans in place so community members know what to do in case of a medical emergency.

“One of the focuses of our work is to ‘meet people where they are,’” says Kayla Fox, executive director of the American Heart Association Palm Beach County. “For example, we estimate that 1 in 3 Palm Beach County residents has high blood pressure, which is a leading risk factor for heart disease and stroke. If we can make checking your blood pressure more accessible by having stations at churches, we can help people recognize high blood pressure and go see a doctor early, before they ever have to experience a heart or stroke-related event.”

The Go Red Sundays program was launched in 2021. To learn more, contact [email protected].

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About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

FAU Harbor Branch Announces 2024 Ocean Science Lecture Series

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FORT PIERCE, Fla. (Dec. 15, 2023) – Florida Atlantic University’s Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute announced the lineup for its annual “John & Barbara Ferrera Ocean Science Lecture Series.” All lectures begin at 4 p.m. at FAU Harbor Branch, Johnson Marine Education Center Auditorium, 5600 U.S. 1 North, Fort Pierce.

The free public education events provide a forum for the community to learn about the most recent discoveries and innovations at FAU Harbor Branch directly from the scientists and engineers who make them.

“Our speakers are all experts in their fields and enjoy sharing their work with the public,” said Dennis Hanisak, Ph.D., research professor and director of education at FAU Harbor Branch. “They will share their diverse experiences on ocean science that help solve practical problems and make informed decisions for the better management of our ocean and coastal waters.”

The 2024 lecture series schedule is as follows:

  • Jan. 10: “The Quest for a Marine Sponge Cell Line: A Retrospective of Sponge Biotechnology at FAU Harbor Branch,” presented by Shirley Pomponi, Ph.D.
  • Jan. 17: “Clam Culture in a Changing Environment,” presented by Susan Laramore, Ph.D.
  • Jan. 24: “Stealing Sharks and Ravaging Rays? A Scientific Delve into Their Impacts on Florida Fisheries,” presented by Matt Ajemian, Ph.D.
  • Jan. 31: “A Bath Sponges Fable: Sponge Painting and the Lobster Season,” presented by Andia Chaves Fonnegra, Ph.D.
  • Feb. 7: “Coral Exploration, Conservation and Restoration,” presented by Joshua Voss, Ph.D.
  • Feb. 14: “Remembering Mark Littler and His Contributions to Marine Plants and Coral Reef Ecology,” presented by Brian LaPointe, Ph.D., and M. Dennis Hanisak, Ph.D.
  • Feb. 21: “Health and Disease in Bottlenose Dolphins Inhabiting the Indian River Lagoon,” presented by Annie Page, DVM, Ph.D.
  • Feb. 28: “Anti-Cancer Drug Discovery at FAU Harbor Branch,” presented by Esther Guzman, Ph.D.
  • March 6: “Celebrating the Queen Conch: A Journey of Restoration with Caribbean Communities,” presented by Megan Davis, Ph.D.
  • April 3: “FAU’s New Environment School, ECOS: Building Bridges to Advance Research and Teaching,” presented by Colin Polsky, Ph.D.
  • May 1: “Fishers Know More Than You,” presented by Aaron Adams, Ph.D.

Attendance is free and open to the public; however advanced registration is required. This one-time registration provides a pass for the entire season.

To register or for more information, visit fau.edu/hboi/osls.

– FAU –

About Florida Atlantic University:
Florida Atlantic University, established in 1961, officially opened its doors in 1964 as the fifth public university in Florida. Today, the University serves more than 30,000 undergraduate and graduate students across six campuses located along the southeast Florida coast. In recent years, the University has doubled its research expenditures and outpaced its peers in student achievement rates. Through the coexistence of access and excellence, FAU embodies an innovative model where traditional achievement gaps vanish. FAU is designated a Hispanic-serving institution, ranked as a top public university by U.S. News & World Report and a High Research Activity institution by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. For more information, visit 
www.fau.edu.

Experience the Magic of Paris at the 21st Annual JustWorld Gala

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Wellington, Florida – December 11, 2023 – Equestrians from around the world are invited to embark on a journey to the glittering avenues of Paris, as they attend the 21st Annual JustWorld Gala. This highly anticipated event will take place on Friday, January 26th at the beautiful Belle Herbe Farm in Wellington, Florida.

Dubbed ‘A Night in Paris’, this year’s gala promises an enchanting experience like no other. As the premier social event of the Wellington Equestrian Festival (WEF) Season, attendees can expect an unforgettable evening filled with elegance, world-class entertainment, and the opportunity to support a worthy cause.

Upon arrival, guests will be greeted by the famous blue carpet, leading them into a world that transports them to the heart of France. The Parisian skyline will unfold with the enchanting colors of Monet’s garden and the dreamlike visions of Van Gogh’s life in Montmartre.

Prepare your taste buds for a culinary delight, as Palm Beach’s Laura Ashley caters the gala dinner. Indulge in the savory notes of truffle, caviar, and crème fraiche, as well as the sweetness of fig, brie, strawberry crepes, and more. The cuisine is reminiscent of a chic “restaurant gastronomique”, promising a dining experience that won’t disappoint.

In addition to the exquisite cuisine, guests can look forward to exclusive items and once-in-a-lifetime experiences up for grabs during the live and silent auctions. The dazzling entertainment throughout the evening will captivate and delight attendees, ensuring that their dreamy Night in Paris is truly unforgettable.

The JustWorld Gala presents an opportunity for attendees to make a difference in the lives of children. By exploring the distinguished sponsorship opportunities, individuals and organizations can contribute to painting a beautiful future for JustWorld’s children. Options range from becoming a Cézanne sponsor, offering an inviting table of 10 and recognition on the JustWorld International website, to elevating to a Monet sponsor, with prominent recognition, a table-top champagne tower, invitations to special events, and exclusive gifts from JustWorld’s four project partners. Learn more about Sponsorship. 

For those who desire an even more exclusive experience, the Event Chair private cocktail at Belle Herbe Farm awaits the Degas sponsor. Alternatively, the Matisse and Gaugion packages offer the chance to make a colorful splash. For the ultimate recognition and opportunities, becoming the title Louvre sponsor is the way to go.

To learn more about sponsorship opportunities, please visit the JustWorld International website. For ticket purchases, click here. Additional information can be found in the 2023 Gala Sponsorship Report.

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JustWorld International

Established in 2003, JustWorld International was created to connect equestrians with a direct way to help fracture the cycle of poverty through education, healthcare, nutrition, and leadership programs benefiting children around the world. Thousands of Ambassadors from more than forty countries have since committed to “Ride for the Cause” and transform the lives of children through equestrian sport. JustWorld has united the international equestrian community and become the Official Charity Partner of the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), the world governing body of equestrian sport. Envisioning a more just world, the non-profit organization cultivates strategic, project partnerships in a collaborative approach to impact the lives of nearly 10,000 children around the globe annually.

To donate, become an Ambassador, or learn more about JustWorld, please visit www.justworldinternational.org or @justworldinternational on Facebook and Instagram.

JustWorld International is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization in the United States and tax-deductible donations are accepted in the United States. JustWorld International has no political or religious affiliation.

NEW DIRECTOR AT WEST PALM BEACH’S CENTER FOR CREATIVE EDUCATION

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Dr. Chana-Kay Pommels Joins the Center as Director of Curriculum and Instruction

Photo by David I. Muir

(West Palm Beach) – The Center for Creative Education (CCE) has expanded its leadership team, announcing the addition of Dr. Chana-Kay Pommels. With over three decades of experience in the educational field, Dr. Pommels brings a wealth of knowledge and innovation to the CCE team.

CCE’s mission is to transform teaching and learning through creativity and the arts. In addition to providing extended learning opportunities across Palm Beach County, CCE also operates The Foundations School, a K-5 independent school that focuses on improving literacy and breaking the barriers of traditional education through the arts for students from underserved communities. The school uses a sliding-fee scale to determine how much the family contributes to their tuition and applies significant scholarships to cover the balance.

“We are extremely privileged to have an individual as distinguished as Dr. Pommels join our team,” stated CCE President and CEO Robert Hamon. “Her extensive expertise and unwavering commitment to the highest standards of education resonate deeply with our mission, championing a supportive learning atmosphere for our students.”

Dr. Pommels possesses a blend of practical teaching experience and robust academic qualifications, including a doctorate from Nova Southeastern University and over 30 years teaching at all levels. Her unyielding commitment to education and excellence makes her a great asset to CCE.

“I’m excited to be a part of the Center for Creative Education and contribute to the impactful change they’re leading in our community,” expressed Dr. Pommels. “I’m eager to collaborate with the organization’s leadership and board of directors, playing my part in the Center’s ongoing achievements.”

To learn more about CCE programming or to make a tax-deductible contribution to the Center for Creative Education, a 501(c)(3), please call Jonathon Ortiz-Smykla at 561.805.9927; extension 106.

WinterFest 2023

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Photos by Carol Porter

WinterFest, with headliner Vanilla Ice, took place on December 8th at the Wellington Amphitheater. Brought to the community for free by a a partnership of the Wellington Chamber with the Village of Wellington, unwrapped new toys were collected for Little Smiles.

The 8th Annual Grandma’s Angel Holiday Luncheon

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The 8th Annual Grandma’s Angel Holiday Luncheon rang in the Holiday Season!

On Tuesday November 28, 211 of Grandma’s Place long-time supporters and new friends gathered at The Sailfish Club in Palm Beach to attend the 8th Annual “Grandma’s Angels” Holiday Luncheon.

The luncheon was chaired by Jodie Schmitz and Sunny Hawkins. Joan O’Connell, Board Chair, served as the Honorary Chair. Committee Members include: Jane Bruno, Susy Burrowes, Amy Considine, Margaret Donnelley, Manda Galin, Helena Guest, Patti Hadden, Barbara Hollender, Eleanor Jones, Mary Liguori, Mary Lewis Moews, Toni O’Brien, Amy Quattlebaum, Dina Rubio, Jaime Taylor and Monique VandeKamp.

 Sponsors include: Presenting Sponsor, Heidi Schaeffer MD; Shooting Star Sponsor, Ric Bradshaw – Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office; Guardian Angel Sponsor Danielle McDonald; Diamond Sponsor Hadden Landscaping; Gold Sponsors International Society of Palm Beach and Cypress Insurance Group – Terri Bond and Nick & Debbie Arciola, Program Sponsor Toshiba Business Systems; Decorations Sponsor Armend Berisha and Everett Simon; and Children Sponsors Jennifer Kelley and Harold James & Jaime Russbrige.

The luncheon started at 11:30 am with a wine reception while guests actively bid on over 200 silent auction items.  During lunch there was a small live auction by Neil Saffer while local CBS12 News Anchor Liz Quirantes has once again graciously served as the celebrity emcee.  Jessica Jelks was the featured speaker and talked about adopting 2 boys who were in Grandma’s Place.

The proceeds benefit Grandma’s Place, which provides shelter and loving care to children who have suffered abuse or neglect and have been removed from their homes, and they also provide respite care for young children with disabilities while offering support to their parents/caregivers to maximize each child’s safety and success.

For more information about Grandma’s Place, please call Roxanne Jacobs at 561-376-0488, e-mail at [email protected] or visit www.granhttps://www.grandmasplacepb.org or www.facebook.com/Granmasplacepb.

Carrie Bradburn/CAPEHART
Carrie Bradburn/CAPEHART
Carrie Bradburn/CAPEHART
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Carrie Bradburn/CAPEHART
Carrie Bradburn/CAPEHART
Carrie Bradburn/CAPEHART
Carrie Bradburn/CAPEHART
Carrie Bradburn/CAPEHART
Carrie Bradburn/CAPEHART

A “Wine” Christmas

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Last-Minute Wine, Cheese, and Charcuterie Gifts
From The Wine Room’s Specialty Shop

Delray Beach, Fla. (December 15, 2023) – Last-minute holiday shopping? Gift the perfect blend of wine and cheese joy this holiday season!The Wine Room Kitchen & Bar’s Wine & Cheese Shop gives customers one of the most unique shopping experiences in South Florida. Guests can buy wine, cheese, and charcuterie from around the world and book a first-class tasting experience.

The most distinctive feature of The Wine Room’s retail store is that guests can sample the exquisite wines before making a purchase. Whether you’re interested in a subtle, oak-infused red or a luscious, fruity white, The Wine Room has an assortment of modestly priced, quality vinos that are bound to be a hit for the holidays.

In addition to storing a wide selection of wine, the Wine & Cheese Shop also features an assortment of smaller items that are perfect for wine enthusiasts. These include charming wine stoppers, gift bags, and endearing novelty items like Maître Fromager Max McCalman’s cheese books and wine-themed decorations. Can’t shop in-store? Visit The Wine Room’s online site to purchase a gift certificate! For every $50 gift card purchase, guests will receive a $10 credit on a wine card.

Make the holidays extra flavorful with a personalized charcuterie board. Choose from premade boards or mix and match from a full selection of artisanal cheeses and meats. Patrons can purchase cheese and charcuterie by the ounce to enjoy in the comfort of their home, or relax and sip in The Wine Room’s captivating dining area – where there is no corkage fee.

Have a “wine” Christmas at The Wine Room Kitchen & Bar! For more information on Wine & Cheese Shop purchases, visit thewineroomonline.com/delray-beach.

About The Wine Room Kitchen & Bar

The Wine Room Kitchen & Bar offers an unparalleled dining experience with more than 1,800 unique wines and over 80 artisanal cheeses and charcuterie from across the globe. The culinary destination combines a traditional restaurant, a 100-year-old Speakeasy, a grand tasting hall, and a wine and cheese store. The Wine Room’s one-of-a-kind enomatic® wine tasting system, imported from Italy, offers guests nearly 200 wines of all price ranges to taste and try. The Wine Room Kitchen & Bar in Delray Beach is located at 411 E. Atlantic Avenue, Suite C, Delray Beach, FL 33483. For reservations, call (561) 243-9463 or visit thewineroomonline.com.

Solstice Peace Celebration

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This Thursday, December 21, Lake Worth Interfaith Network (LWIN) invites people of all faiths and no faith to gather at the Quaker Meetinghouse in Lake Worth Beach to celebrate a Peace Solstice. Recognizing the indissoluble connection between inner personal peace and outer community and world peace, the program will feature music, dance, a yule fire, and spoken word to console and inspire. The Quaker Meetinghouse is located at 823 North A Street. The program will run from 7 pm to 8:30 pm.

Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa festivities all center around light and hope as captured in the phrase “Peace on earth. Goodwill toward all.” The Winter Solstice is the shortest day of the year. As the days begin to grow longer people around the world feel deep meaning in the increasing light, new beginnings, and hope.

This year, LWIN is answering a call from Abrahamic Reunion and other peacemakers around the world for individuals and groups to rouse the hope of peace by lighting a candle, holding a moment of silence, or gathering to celebrate in community. The website, solsticepeace.org, provides details.

These activities are nonpartisan and do not take sides in any conflict. Rather, they hold out hope that conflicts, such as in the Holy Land, in Ukraine, and elsewhere can eventually be resolved and the various factions can find amicable ways to co-exist. As Michael Macy, the organizer of solstice peace events in the UK explains, “Peace is constructive. Every building ever built, every tree and plant that has ever taken root and grown is a result of peace.”

Admission to Thursday’s gathering is free. Join friends and neighbors for an inspiring evening. May peace prevail on earth. Salaam, Shalom, Pace, Peace.

Lake Worth Interfaith Network is a group of individuals and faith-based communities dedicated to promoting acceptance and understanding among our diverse spiritual traditions through prayer gatherings, education, and compassionate action.

High Rollin’ for Rhinos

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Casino Night Benefit: High Rollin’ for Rhinos to Support Dr. Gabby Wild’s Mission to Save the Last Sumatran Rhinos of Borneo

West Palm Beach, FL [December 14, 2023] – The Gabby Wild Foundation is hosting High Rollin’ for Rhinos, a casino night benefit event where every roll of the dice contributes to Dr. Gabby Wild’s crucial mission to save the last 11 Sumatran Rhinos of Borneo. Sumatran Rhinos are Keystone species, crucial for restoring ecological balance and preventing climate change. While African rhinos receive more assistance, our Sumatran rhinos remain hidden, which is why Dr. Gabby is on a mission to ensure the survival of the Asian rhinos through her upcoming journey.

The event will take place at Chateâu Lorio, located at 120 Elwa Place in West Palm Beach, on Thursday, January 11, from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Event highlights include casino game tables of Blackjack, Texas Hold ’Em Poker, and Roulette tables, staffed with personalized dealers; an open bar featuring a selection of wines from the JL Kiff Winery, cocktails, and local microbrews; food stations featuring ‘Mediterranean meets Sumatra’ dishes curated by Chefs Vanessa Essery and Kimberly Maloomian, RD; a silent auction that includes such exclusive items as a Zoom date with Bachelor star Blake Moynes, and the opportunity to swim with Orcas in Norway.

Guests have the option to purchase tickets at two levels, Rhino Lover or VIP Rhino Lover. The ticket-level options include:

  • Rhino Lover Ticket: $250 – Includes open bar access, food stations, casino games, $100 “Funny Money,” silent auction access, valet parking, Sumatran Rhino Documentary Viewing, and an Award Ceremony honoring Wildlife Champion Blake Moynes.
  • VIP Rhino Lover Ticket: $350 – Includes all Rhino Lover benefits, plus an increase to $250 in “Funny Money,” autographed copies of Dr. Gabby Wild’s books, an eco-friendly GWild Foundation tote bag, Save Pahu t-shirt, and a Sumatran rhino lapel pin.

The event’s silent auction page is already live and accepting bids. Silent Auction items include: 

  • The opportunity to Swim with Orcas in Norway, donated by Empowering Success
  • Zoom date with Bachelor star, wildlife photographer, and conservationist Blake Moynes
  • Private flight lessons, donated by Jason Rawding
  • Natural long pearl necklace with matching pearl earrings by Maison Maurice
  • Navy waterproof leather convertible backpack tote by LAURACEA
  • Yoga Bundle with lightweight cork mat, massage balls and block, from Zoia Yoga Studio
  • Virtual Hunter/Jumper Lesson with renowned equine coach Traci Brooks
  • Hand-delivered equine sprouted barley grass & supercharged Omega oil by Equigreens
  • Equine Elixirs’ all-natural equine gastric support horse feed
  • Custom therapeutic massage with Lane Spa Palm Beach Gardens, 
  • Jo Malone Gift Basket soap and candle basket
  • Original writings and artwork of John James Audubon (donated by Zebra Publishing)

About The Gabby Wild Foundation

The Gabby Wild Foundation’s mission is to safeguard the world’s most threatened wildlife through veterinary mission trips, in-field conservation projects, and educational classes and campaigns. The Foundation is a US-based nonprofit headquartered in New York with outposts in Indonesia focused on the conservation of Sumatran rhinos, Sumatran tigers, Asian elephants, Javan rhinos and the ancient rainforests they reside in. The Foundation provides on-call international veterinary care for all endangered animals, and orchestrates educational classes for children, lectures and documentaries for adults, and hosts sustainable fashion shows, all in an effort to spread awareness for the plight of the planet and her endangered animals. The Gabby Wild Foundation is a nonprofit, tax-exempt charitable organization (tax identification number 45-2969757) under Section 501(c)(3) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code.

The Dr. Gabby Wild Foundation is grateful for this year’s generous sponsors: River Run FarmRood & Riddle Equine Hospital, DziaSport Equine tack, equestrian and Sotheby’s real estate agent David Welles, boutique investment manager Lane Generational, and J.L. Kiff Vineyard.

To purchase tickets, learn more or view and bid on silent auction items, visit https://e.givesmart.com/events/zle.

Health is Wealth Fair

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You’re invited!