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Navigating the Feast

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Navigating the Feast

Akai J. Jackson’s Guide to Mindful Munching, Stress-Busting Sweat, and Guilt-Free Gobbling 

True and fact the holiday season is here, and we are all excited to partake in all the festivities. The parades, the Christmas tree lighting, our families, friends, the laughter….and OMG I can’t forget the food.  I’m Akai J. Jackson, your trusted personal & professional development expert that includes strength and conditioning, and I was voted America’s Favorite Mindfulness Coach for my work in mindset shifting. I’m here to guide you through the holiday landscape of huge feasts, stress-ridden gatherings, and the delicate art of guilt-free gobbling. Buckle up, because we’re about to turn those holiday hurdles into a series of victorious sprints! 

Mindful Munching: Eating with Intention 

In the grand scheme of holiday flavors, it’s easy to lose track of your cooking compass. Fear not, my friends, I want to introduce you to the art of mindful munching. Picture this: you, in a room full of treats that you’ve been looking forward to for months, armed with the power of intention. Before you grab that third sugar cookie, take a moment to savor the sweetness of the first two. Mindful eating is not about depriving or punishing yourself “which I think we all do”; it’s about appreciation. Sip that hot chocolate slowly, savor the taste, and be the master of your own holiday banquet.  

1. Engage All of Your Senses: Before devouring everything in site because you’ve taking the week prior off eating to make space for the day of feasting, take a moment to engage your senses. Allow the smell of peppermint and the fragrance of baked cookies to wrap its warmth around you. Acknowledge the wide range of flavors that wait for you, from the turkey to the richness of chocolate desserts. By heightening your sensory experience, you set the stage for a feast of epic proportions. 

2. Slow Down and Savor: In a world that moves at the speed of light, I encourage and engage you to defy the norm. Slow down, my friends. Take a cue from the turtle and relish each bite with purpose. Put that fork down between mouthfuls, allowing your taste buds to fully appreciate the flavors on your tongue. Mindful munching isn’t a race; it’s a celebration of taste, texture, and cooking with love in the holiday spirit. 

3. Portion Control with Presence: Mindful munching isn’t about restriction; it’s about making conscious choices. Survey the buffet. Choose your portions. Load your plate with an array of colorful, nutrient-dense foods. Consciously go for a mix of proteins, veggies, and carbs. This is a helpful strategy for a well-balanced meal. 

4. The Power of Gratitude: As you savor each bite, take a moment to reflect on the journey that brought this delightful meal to your plate. Express gratitude for the hands that prepared it, the ingredients that nurtured it, and the community that shares this holiday with you. Gratitude transforms a simple meal into a sacred experience, reminding us that mindful munching extends beyond the taste buds—it nourishes the soul. 

5. Listen to Your Body: At the holiday banquet, let your body be your guide. Pay attention to hunger and fullness cues. If your stomach signals contentment, respect its wisdom. Mindful munching encourages a harmonious relationship with your body, fostering an awareness that transcends the plate. 

Stress-Busting Sweat Sessions: The Ultimate Festive Detox 

The holiday season brings joy, laughter, and the occasional family drama. To get through the occasional stress sesh, we need a solution—the stress-busting sweat session. Channel your inner warrior and unleash the power of stress release. This might look like shadowing boxing, or yoga. Fire up your smart tv or your ipad, and type in, 10 minute yoga, 10 minute chair exercises, or even 10 minute body weight exercises. You will have a ton of options, and realistically none of them are wrong. Remember, laughter is the best medicine, but a burpee or two, or a walk around the block won’t hurt either. 

Guilt-Free Gobbling: Balancing Indulgence with Intelligence 

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room—or should I say, the turkey on the table? Guilt-free gobbling is a true art, my friends, and it begins with a simple mindset shift. Embrace the fact that holidays are a time of celebration, not self-destruction or a punishment. You can enjoy that extra slice of pumpkin pie without a side dish of guilt. Just remember to balance your plate with colorful veggies, lean proteins, and a generous serving of self-love. No one ever regretted a joyful holiday feast, but the regret of not savoring the moment? That’s a recipe for disappointment. 

My friends, armed with mindful munching, stress-busting sweat sessions, and guilt-free gobbling, you can navigate this holiday season. I’m Akai J. Jackson, signing off with a festive high-five. Remember, holidays are meant to be enjoyed, so go forth, celebrate, and conquer with wisdom and mindfulness. 

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The common theme of Akai Jackson’s career has always been helping people grow into the best version of themselves through fitness and mindset shifts. The longtime entrepreneur’s dynamic approach to health and wealth wellness is the byproduct of formal education, life experience as a decorated college athlete, and his own personal journey with mindfulness and growth. He founded I.X.L TODAY, a personal & professional development agency that curates transformational health and wealth programs that take their clients from existing to excelling in their physical, mental, emotional health.

Nonprofits First Appoints Two New Board Members

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Nonprofits First Appoints Two New Board Members

(West Palm Beach, Fla.) December 4, 2023 – Nonprofits First, the leading resource for strengthening the administrative and operational capacity of nonprofit organizations in our community, has appointed Kenneth Rehns, Partner at Ward Damon, and Director of Ward Damon’s Litigation Group and Alpesh Patel, Owner, eSANGHE, to its board of directors.

Mr. Rehns (pictured above) focuses primarily on business and commercial law, labor and employment litigation, real estate disputes, securities litigation, and complex commercial litigation. He earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration with a focus on Economics from George Washington University, graduating with honors, and went on to receive his law degree from Syracuse University College of Law, again with honors. 

Mr. Patel (pictured above) is now leveraging his experience and intersecting his passion for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging, serving clients, causes and community with creative problem-solving to develop practical solutions. Pivoting his resources and company, eSANGHE’s first initiative is SeedingACCESS — a collaborative program that brings businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies together to invest in revitalized computers with families in underserved communities. To date, they have delivered more than 575 computers.


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.

2014 Wellington Father Daughter Dance

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2014 Wellington Father Daughter Dance

Tickets go on sale Monday, December 4, 2023


Fathers, stepfathers, grandfathers, and all blends of families are invited to take part in Wellington’s Annual Father Daughter Dance on Saturday, January 27, 2024. It will be a night of delight for daughters ages 5 to 14. This year’s theme is a “Pirates & Pixies” Father Daughter Dance.

The event will take place at the Village Park Gymnasium (11700 Pierson Road), from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, and includes dinner, dessert, dancing, games, photos, and more! Each couple will receive keepsakes to cherish the magical memories of this fun evening. Doors open at 5:30 PM.

Tickets go on sale at 8:00 AM on Monday, December 4, 2023, and can be purchased online at www.wellingtonfl.gov/CivicRec (existing CivicRec users), or in person at the Village Park Gymnasium and the Wellington Community Center (12150 Forest Hill Boulevard). The cost is $25 per person.

This event is expected to sell out quickly, so be sure to purchase your tickets early!

For more information call 561-753-2484 or visit www.wellingtonfl.gov/FatherDaughter.

LITTLE SMILES 14th ANNUAL TOY DRIVE 

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LITTLE SMILES 14th ANNUAL TOY DRIVE 

LITTLE SMILES 14th ANNUAL TOY DRIVE CALLS ON COMMUNITY’S HOLIDAY SPIRIT TO BRING CHEER TO LOCAL KIDS IN NEED

Donate a new, unwrapped toy, donate by text or online, shop from Little Smiles’ Amazon Wish List, or become a drop-off location to be a part of 

South Florida’s largest toy drive

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 

Palm Beach Gardens, FLA. – (November 30, 2023) – Little Smiles of Florida is calling on the community to come together for their 14th Annual Holiday Toy Drive to continue its mission to help kids be kids through difficult times. Through December 25, 2023, the toy drive seeks new unwrapped gifts for children aged newborn to 18 years. The donations are distributed through collection centers for families to pick up and directly to Little Smiles’ thirty-nine pediatric partners, including hospitals with children fighting life-threatening illnesses, medical daycare centers, hospices, shelters, foster care homes and medical support facilities. 

“Through the incredible support of our community, the Little Smiles Toy Drive spreads joy to thousands of local children during the holidays,” said Executive Director Brittany Perdigon. “Whether gifts go to a child in the hospital, a foster child, or a child whose family is having a difficult time, the acts of kindness are felt long after, leaving behind priceless smiles on the faces of these resilient kids.” 

Last year’s efforts resulted in over 10,000 toys collected, bringing smiles to more than 6,500 children in southeast Florida. This year, contributing is easier than ever through online donations at littlesmilesfl.org/donate/. Donations enable Little Smiles to secure toys, games, and gifts, ensuring that local families in need receive support during the holiday season. Businesses are encouraged to participate by becoming drop-off locations or sponsors.

To contribute, individuals and businesses can request a donation box or shop online from the Amazon Wish List. Drop-off locations are available at littlesmilesfl.org or Little Smiles’ North Pole at Harbourside Place in Jupiter. Alternatively, donations can be made via text (text LITTLESMILES to 44321) or at littlesmilesfl.org.

Little Smiles Florida supports children, caregivers, and families year-round at local hospitals and other facilities. Donations fund events such as movie nights, arts and crafts, and food provisions to stock hospital pantries feeding children facing hardships. The organization fulfills individual needs and requests, ensuring every child receives comfort and a moment of joy while at one of the many facilities that partner with Little Smiles Florida.

For more information about Little Smiles Florida and to contribute to the 14th Annual Holiday Toy Drive, visit littlesmilesfl.org.

About Little Smiles Florida

Little Smiles is a not-for-profit organization operating in Palm Beach County and the greater Southeast Florida region. The charity was founded in 1999 by local businessman Paul L. Donohue, who saw a need and inspired the community to bring comfort and joy to children and their caregivers at Palm Beach Children’s Hospital. Little Smiles now partners with thirty-nine pediatric facilities from St. Lucie to Miami that include hospitals, medical day care centers, hospices, shelters, foster care homes, and medical support facilities. Their mission is to help kids during difficult times. They provide smiles to children and their support staff with fun events, including movie night, arts and crafts, and snack breaks. They fulfill individual needs and requests, such as providing a toy to help distract a child after surgery, pajamas to stay extra comfy during their time at the facility, or even a cake and a present to celebrate a birthday during their time at one of the facilities. 

Sustainable Alternatives to Christmas Trees

Charmaine Peters
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Sustainable Alternatives to Christmas Trees

By Charmaine Peters

If you celebrate Christmas, chances are the Christmas tree is the main centerpiece that adds warmth and holiday flair to your home. And you’re not alone. More than 21 million live trees and upward of 12 million artificial trees will be purchased by U.S. households this Christmas season.

That’s a lot of trees.

After the holiday, the artificial ones will likely be tucked away and re-used next year. Some data suggests the average fake tree experiences 7 to 20 real Christmas seasons. A live tree, on the other hand, tends to meet its demise curbside, just a few days after the twinkling lights and decorations come down. It’s hard to say which is the better environmental choice. Some of the live trees get recycled, but most commonly they are carted away and it’s unclear what happens next. Perhaps in the spirit of Christmas, it’s time to consider some sustainable alternatives to the traditional tree.

Here are four ways to celebrate Christmas that are friendlier for the environment:

Decorate a Plant

Get creative with the plants that you already have at home. Place a tree skirt or decorative fabric around the base of the potted plant. Wrap a string of lights around the pot or the plant and choose LED lights for energy efficiency and safety. Hang small, lightweight, ornaments that won’t hurt the plant. This idea is a great way to decorate your home while keeping things eco-friendly and festive. Plus this way, you can have many trees throughout your home.

Repurpose a Ladder 

Grab a ladder, or a step stool, that you’d typically use to get something from a hard to reach place and get creative! First find a safe and stable location in your home that’s clear from heavy foot traffic, such as a corner or against a wall, then, wrap a string of lights around the different steps of your ladder. Drape some garland to give it a more tree-like appearance. If you’re really feeling crafty, string some popcorn for a more nostalgic look. Don’t forget to add your favorite ornaments. You can also place a non-fragile tree topper at the top of the ladder. And, voilà, you have created a festive spot for your Christmas presents!

Make a Christmas Book Tree

If you like to read and have a ton of books at home, it’s time to transform your shelf-bound collection into a festive Christmas centerpiece. Select books of varying sizes, colors, and thicknesses to create an interesting and visually appealing book tree. Lay the largest books on the surface in the shape of a circle and build in – and up – from there. Make sure the spines on the books face outward so you can take advantage of the colorful designs (they’ll also serve as great conversation starters when friends come over). Keep stacking the books until you’re happy with the shape of your “tree.” Add some LED lights and a tree topper to complete the look.

Create a Wall Art Tree

Transform your wall into a festive masterpiece by arranging ornaments, lights, and garlands in the shape of a Christmas tree. Use removable hooks or adhesive clips to securely attach the decorations without damaging your wall. This makes for a stunning visual and is great for smaller living spaces that want to make a big impression.

Whether you choose plants or books or something else, there are many eco-friendly ways we can bring the Christmas spirit into our homes. This year, let us spread the spirit of sustainability and ensure a greener, more eco-conscious, holiday for all!

An Interview with Pam Silverman, Realtor with Lang Realty

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An Interview with Pam Silverman, Realtor with Lang Realty

AW: What separates you from so many other realtors?

PS: I believe what sets me apart is my dedication to personalized service. I take the time to truly understand my clients’ needs, providing them with a tailored experience. Additionally, my extensive knowledge of the local market and commitment to staying updated on industry trends ensures that I can offer valuable insights and guidance throughout the buying or selling process.

AW: How long have you been in real estate? Tell us about your background.

PS: I’ve been in real estate for over 20 years. I started as a project coordinator for a Real Estate developer in Miami. I oversaw the build out of sales centers, hiring, and overseeing sales staff, contract development and pricing. I worked closely with architects on the design of the luxury high rise buildings in Sunny Isles, Ft Lauderdale and Hollywood. I’ve also worked for a PR firm handling press as well as sales and marketing events for several developers. My past experiences provided me with an extensive knowledge of how to market properties, negotiate contracts and understand the construction aspects of buying a home, whether it is an existing property, or a new build like in Arden.  I’ve been through up markets and down markets.  I am passionate about helping people achieve their real estate goals and have dedicated myself to continuously improving my skills and staying informed about the market.

AW: Tell us about some of the homes you are selling right now.

PS: Currently, I am representing a diverse range of properties, from charming starter homes to luxury estates. Each property has its unique appeal, and I take pride in showcasing the distinct features and value that each one offers. (If you’d like, I can provide more details on specific listings.)  One particularly interesting property is a 5000 square foot courtyard home in Versailles with a separate guest house, which can be used for a nanny, a mother-in-law, or an office, as just a few possibilities.  Visit my new website for all the listings: WellingtonRealEstatePro.com. 

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AW: What do you find most challenging about being a realtor?

PS: One of the most challenging aspects is managing the unpredictability of the market. Staying adaptable and being able to navigate through fluctuations while keeping clients informed and satisfied is a continuous challenge.

AW: What are some of the best upgrades a person can make on a home?

PS: It depends on the specific property, but generally, kitchen and bathroom renovations tend to have a high return on investment. Additionally, in Florida impact glass is very attractive to buyers and a new roof can help close a sale, as insurance has become cost prohibitive with a roof older than 20 years.

AW: What’s something most buyers don’t know ahead of time that you wish they would know?

PS: Many buyers underestimate the importance of getting pre-approved for a mortgage before starting their home search. It not only helps set a realistic budget but also gives them a competitive edge in a competitive market.

AW: What’s something most sellers don’t know ahead of time that you wish they would know?

PS: Sellers often underestimate the impact of home staging. A well-staged home can significantly enhance its appeal and help it sell faster. Investing in small cosmetic upgrades and presentation can make a substantial difference.  Buyers need to feel at home in the first minute; first impressions are the key. 

AW: What do you say to the person who says they can find everything they need on the Internet these days and they don’t “need a realtor?”

PS: While it’s true that there is a wealth of information online, a realtor brings expertise, negotiation skills, and personalized advice that an online search cannot provide. I act as a guide throughout the entire process, ensuring my clients make informed decisions and navigate potential challenges successfully. There’s a whole process to buying a home, including knowing how to read an inspection report, knowing how to read a title report and finding negotiating points throughout the transaction. 

AW: You do a lot of sales in Wellington. What do you love about Wellington?

PS: Wellington has a unique charm and is a vibrant community. The equestrian culture, excellent schools, and beautiful neighborhoods make it a fantastic place to live. I appreciate the diverse real estate opportunities the area offers and enjoy helping clients find their perfect home in Wellington. This family-friendly community gives our young people a place to really thrive, not just survive.

AW: Tell us about your family.

PS: My family is an essential part of my life and provides the foundation for my commitment to creating homes for others. I have twins that just started high school, a boy and a girl and a wonderful husband. We moved up from Miami about 7 years ago and couldn’t be happier. It is a wonderful place to raise a family.

AW: A few more words?

PS: I would like to emphasize my commitment to professionalism, integrity, and client satisfaction. My goal is not just to facilitate real estate transactions but to build lasting relationships with my clients based on trust and exceptional service. Referrals from past clients are a large part of my business. My motto is you’re buying a home, not just a house. If there’s anything specific you’d like to know more about, feel free to ask!

Pam Silverman

Realtor, Lang Realty

(305) 310-2145

December, 2023 – Harold

Ingrid Webster
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December, 2023 – Harold

By Ingrid Webster

Sand for Snow?

Heidi Hess
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Sand for Snow?

By Heidi Hess

A pristine, crystalline blanket of the white stuff covers a large patch of grass near the intracoastal. It’s winter here in South Florida and that can only mean one thing – it’s sand. Seven hundred tons of it to be precise.

The sculptors are hard at work for November 30th’s lighting of the 35-foot pirate-themed Christmas tree made entirely of sand. It’s not snow. I know. If you’ve lived down here long enough you’ve learned to find the joy of the season without the need for mittens or watching snow fall while sitting next to a cozy fire.

There are a lot of holiday/winter themed events and Sandi Land is just one of them. Not only can you watch the dancing light display on the quarter hour from 6pm to 10pm (it’s quite impressive) but you can also get a Birds Eye view of downtown West Palm, the Intracoastal and Palm Beach on the Ferris Wheel for $5. 

Honestly, my favorite part is the ride on the trolley down Clematis Street to see Sandi. Strands of white Christmas lights are strung all the way down the street. It’s absolutely beautiful and reminds me of my kids and how we’re always wide eyed looking at this display.

They usually have lots of other smaller sand sculptures and activities for the kids. It’s so festive. If this doesn’t fill you with the joy of the season, I don’t know what will. But I get it… maybe you need some help. Here’s a quick list of the things they have in colder climates that help to create that winter wonderland and its southern counterpart:

Replace snow with sand, snow angels with sand angels(you can do it). Replace egg nog with mojitos, a cozy fireplace for a Floridian sunset, new mittens for a new bathing suit. Sledding for surfing. Hot chocolate for a Peppermint Mocha Frappuccino. Although my son assures me that even if it’s a hundred degrees outside, HOT chocolate is always the answer.

I could go on and on but I have to get back to staring at the ocean and intermittently scrolling through all those posts from insanely cold places.

Wherever you are, I hope you find yourself surrounded by the people you hold most dear and living your best life. Even if you don’t have sand…

Happy Holidays!

A Hidden Treasure

Denise Marsh
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A Hidden Treasure

An Interview with Rochelle Wolberg, Curator and Director of Mounts Botanical Garden

By Denise Marsh

In doing articles for AroundWellington.com’s Cultural Corner column, I really “get around” and see things I sometimes wouldn’t typically see on my own. When offered an opportunity to view Mounts Botanical Garden I couldn’t help but think of my relationship with plants: no relationship. In fact, I had managed to kill my beautiful and sentimental Bamboo Plant (a birthday present) that I had for 2 good years; I even named her “Shannon”.  Nevertheless, I had adopted a complex regarding all things “green”.  So, I decided that I needed to make peace and conquer this fear a different way. Hence, doing this article was my “peace treaty” and knowing that I was NOT responsible for this green oasis of loveliness helped as well!

In the midst of Palm Beach International’s noisy planes, there is a “hidden treasure” quite beautiful, vast, and eclectic place called “Mounts Botanical Garden”. It is there that you will find meditation gardens, tranquil walking trails, various plants and horticulture, and statues depicting their own special “truths”. If you’ve never seen this Garden, you haven’t truly seen all of Florida’s beauty in its entirety. It is not just a place; it is an unforgettable experience and it is where I “befriended” lots of green and put my “curse” to its demise. 

Although my actual “interview” was with Rochelle Wolberg, Misty Stoller, the Associate Director of Marketing and Communications was extremely beneficial as a Liaison to ensure that all communication was addressed and forwarded promptly.  Thank you to both of you for making this article/interview happen!

Sowing the seeds

A.W:   What is your position at Mounts Botanical Gardens?  How long have you been there?

R.W: Mounts Botanical Garden Curator-Director, Rochelle Wolberg.  I have been with the Garden for nearly a decade.  I was first hired in May 2014 as Director of Education overseeing programs, volunteers, and youth education.  I began my tenure as Curator-Director the summer of 2017.

A.W: Have you always been involved with Horticulture? When did you know that you had a passion for this?

R.W:  I came to the garden via an untraditional path.  My background is in School Psychology.  However, I have grown to embrace our mission to inspire and educate through nature, namely through horticultural education and sustainable gardening practices.  I am passionate about marrying the aesthetic quality of landscape design with the science of horticultural best practice, specific to our Zone, both of which are substantial to our mission.

A.W: What is the history of the garden?  Who funds the gardens? 

R.W: The Garden was named in honor of Marvin Umphrey “Red” Mounts (1898-1969) who was instrumental in shaping Palm Beach County’s expansive farming community.  After graduating from the University of Florida’s agricultural college in 1925, Mounts was hired as the County’s first agricultural agent.  His territory covered 1.2 million acres.  Mounts encouraged farm families to expand their usual crops of green beans and tomatoes to a variety of tropical fruits and vegetables towards improving their personal health and finances.  When not in the field, Mounts lectured to garden clubs and preached the gospel of agriculture at school career days. He also helped to establish the Audubon Society of the Everglades and formed Florida’s charted 4-H club.  In 1983, The Friends of the Mounts Learning Center was established to support the Garden.  This effort grew out of a garden advisor committee formed in 1975 by Clayton Hutcheson.  It was a non-profit organization whose goal was to provide voluntary personnel and funding support from private sources to facilitate horticultural materials and to provide educational opportunities to Palm Beach County.  In 1986, the name of the center was officially changed to Mounts Botanical Garden and the names of the Friends was changed to Friends of the Mounts Botanical Garden, and it became a 501©3 non-profit with the purpose of support, expansion, and development of the Garden.  For complete history:  https://www. mounts.org/mounts-history/

A.W: What is the best part of your job?  Most challenging? Please provide an example or two for each.

R.W: The best part is:

1. Working with a team of incredibly talented and creative professionals who enjoy wonderful synergy and creative autonomy for planning out projects-really, one does not get this type of opportunity often if even once in their career.

2. Meeting wonderful professionals representing a wide breadth of fields, including art, landscape, design, architecture, education, health and wellness, and more. 

Challenges:

  1. Managing the public/private partnership when it’s related to major capital projects. Even with all sides in agreement, it takes time to bear fruit-similar to gardening, I guess!
  2. Sifting through data, as a team, and making critical decisions that will impact broad program areas.

(Above: Rochelle and Patrick Wolberg)

A.W: What are your suggestions for a “direction-challenged” person (such as myself) in terms of navigating the Garden?

R.W:  Our mobile garden guide on Bloomberg Connects, the free arts and culture app, provides a map of the Garden along with descriptions of our 25 display gardens, art in the garden, and information on our exhibits. 

A.W: What are your favorite parts of the Garden?

R.W: My favorite part of the Garden is the Great Lawn as it affords the ability to view other gardens across a panoramic viewpoint, such as the Butterfly Garden, Trial Garden, Overlook Bridge on the Zimmerman Shade & Color Island, and our beautiful tree canopy.

A.W: Is the Garden kid-friendly? 

R.W: Mounts Botanical offers the ultimate family fun “green” experience.  From a giant outdoor fort and maze, to towering moai statues, a gorgeous butterfly garden, and the opportunity to feed the koi fish. M.B. has so much to offer youngsters-and also the “young at heart”.  Plus, treasure trek maps are available in the Welcome Center & /Gift Shop to make the adventure even more fun!

A.W: Is photography and video allowed at the premises? What are the guidelines?

R.W: Yes, we encourage you to take and share photos/videos!  Mounts also serves as the backdrop for numerous staged photo/video shoots.  For complete details: https://www.mounts.org/photo-video-policies/.

A.W: Where exactly are you located ? What are the hours and prices for admission? Also, I understand that there is a special schedule of events for this venue.

R.W: For complete information on hours, admission, and additional visitor info, visit: https://www.mounts.org/visitor-information/.

A.W.: What are your future plans for the Garden or “with” the Garden?

R.W: We are currently embarking on the exciting next chapter of the Garden’s growth as we develop a new strategic plan that will serve as our roadmap to the future, guide where we are going in the years to come, and outline how we will get there.  We want Mounts Botanical Garden to be top of mind as one of Palm Beach County’s most unique attractions as a living museum and one of the region’s top cultural gems.  In addition, we have begun our next master plan process to carry out this strategic vision.  Following a search conducted in conjunction with Palm Beach County, Friends of the Mounts Botanical Garden is currently negotiating an agreement and will commence master planning in Spring 2024

A.W: What is something very special about the Garden that you think people should definitely be aware of?

R.W: Mounts Botanical Garden is Palm Beach County’s oldest and largest public botanical garden.  With a mission to inspire and educate through nature and a history spanning more than 40 years.  Mounts Botanical is a hidden gem located in the heart of the Palm Beaches behind Palm Beach International Airport.  The nationally-acclaimed attraction is enjoyed by residents and visitors alike.  Visitors to this 20-acre tropical oasis will see an acclaimed collection of 25 display gardens containing more than 7,000 species of tropical and sub-tropical plants, including Florida Native plants, exotic and tropical fruit trees, ornamentals, herbs, palms, roses, cactus, succulents, bromeliads, orchids, and more.  In addition, numerous cultural and educational activities draw visitors to enjoy, appreciate, and learn from this sanctuary of tranquil beauty.  Sitting under the canopy of the stately Royal Poinciana tree, overlooking Lake Orth, one may forget the hustle and bustle of the Palm Beaches and find restoration in the healing sounds and scents of the Garden.  The Garden reconnects visitors to nature’s awe and wonder local stories, and to one another.

A Garden is Grown

If you need a place to film, record, take pictures for any special occasion the backdrop at Mount Botanicals Garden and the grounds are immaculate and breath-taking.  There is an upcoming Origami Program (check out the schedule of events mentioned in the article), or, just come here to relax and mediate.  You really DON’T need a good reason. This is a place not to be missed but to be treasured and shared with company that is visiting Florida or revisit your “tourist days” and experience it for yourself!

I am grateful for Rochelle’s time and expertise as well as Misty for “connecting” me to Rochelle. Although it was my first time at the Garden it is definitely NOT my last. I look forward to going back tour with friends or family and having them embrace and enjoy this hidden treasure.  Come see the place you shouldn’t miss seeing.

PS After my tour of the Garden, I have decided that I will get myself a new Bamboo Plant, perhaps for my birthday-I’m feeling “green” again, thanks to Mounts Botanical Garden. 

PALM BEACH COUNTY FOOD BANK HOSTS EIGHTH ANNUAL EMPTY BOWLS DELRAY BEACH

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PALM BEACH COUNTY FOOD BANK HOSTS EIGHTH ANNUAL EMPTY BOWLS DELRAY BEACH

The celebrated event returns at Trinity Delray Lutheran Church and School on December 9

(Lake Worth Beach, Fla.) – Giving will have an especially good taste at this year’s Empty Bowls Delray Beach! Returning in its eighth year, Palm Beach County Food Bank (PBCFB) is hosting Empty Bowls Delray Beach on Saturday, December 9 at Trinity Delray Lutheran Church and School between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. The theme and humbling reminder is to “eat simply so others may simply eat.”

Empty Bowls is a national event hosted on a local scale where attendees enjoy a simple meal of soup from local restaurants, fresh baked breads from Old School Bakery, and bottled water. There will be hand-crafted bowls for purchase, music and entertainment with community leaders, restaurants and volunteers donating their time and soups to benefit the Food Bank. This year’s event chairs are John and Diane Brewer and Stephanie Dodge as honorary chair.

“Year-round we serve 200,000 food-insecure people in Palm Beach County,” said Jamie Kendall, PBCFB CEO. “The holiday season can come with stress for a lot of families. It’s up to us, and Empty Bowls participants, to ensure they have a holiday meal to put on the table and that they are nourished going into the new year.”

Participating restaurants at this year’s event include Palm Trail Grill, Abe and Louie’s, Caffe Luna Rosa, Eat Thai, J&J Seafood Bar and Grill, Latitudes at Delray Sands, Longhorn Steakhouse Delray, Space of Mind Community Classroom Project, Tin Muffin and Woodfield Country Club. Tickets to Empty Bowls Delray Beach on December 9 are $35.

The 2023 Presenting Ladle Sponsor is Trinity Delray Lutheran Church. Event sponsors include ArtSea Living, Boca Magazine, Brenda Medore and Leanne Adair, Deborah and Michael Pucillo, DSS Incorporated, Edward Jones, From Roehm with Love, Genesis House, J.P. Morgan Wealth Management, Lousie Glover, Mouw Associates Inc., Old School Bakery, Shelly and Billy Himmelrich, Red Steel Properties, Stuart and Shelby Development, Inc., The Garchik Family Foundation, and Under the Sun. Sponsorship opportunities are still available at pbcfoodbank.org/empty-bowls-sponsorship

The PBCFB procures food from grocery stores, farmers, food distributors, wholesalers and other sources and provides it to almost 200 local community partners, including food pantries, soup kitchens and residential housing programs. Palm Beach County Food Bank programs reach families, children and seniors, and connect those in need to available benefits and resources. Partner agencies distribute the products received, including culturally appropriate food and necessities like paper towels and diapers. This process ensures families have access to food when they need it most.

For more information about Palm Beach County Food Bank services, or to support their ongoing mission with tickets to Empty Bowls Delray Beach, please visit pbcfoodbank.org.

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