(West Palm Beach, FL.) – Attention all aspiring authors! The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts invites writers of all backgrounds to participate in its Writers’ Academy, led by Pulitzer Prize-nominated biographer, novelist, playwright and educator Julie Gilbert. The Writers’ Academy nurtures and develops creative writing skills in most genres of expression, offering participants four courses to refine their skills.
“At the Writers’ Academy at The Kravis Center, I’ve been privileged to witness the blossoming of immense talent,” says Gilbert. “The writers here are not just gifted but audaciously brave in their craft. Their ability to marry raw talent with a bold spirit makes me profoundly proud. Each session offers a unique outlet to delve deep, unearthing and expressing the emotions that often remain hidden.”
Students who have participated in The Writers’ Academy classes have found their own literary acclaim as a result of Gilbert’s teachings. Diane Bergner, local author and Kravis Center’s Vice President of Development, went on to write the novel“Royal Coconut Beach Lunch Club,” published by Meridian Editions LLC. The Kravis Center has also published two books written by Writers’ Academy members: “Driving Woodie: Tales From the Home Front During World War II” by Martha McMullen and “Verbal Snacks” by Nancy Sims.
“At The Writers’ Academy at The Kravis Center, it’s more than just a class – it’s a community,” said Bergner. “As a former student, I experienced firsthand the magic of seeing my ideas take shape and breathe life. This academy is a place where experimentation is celebrated, and every writing style is not just accepted but enthusiastically encouraged. It’s where the seeds of imagination are cultivated and bloom brilliantly.”
Gilbert was nominated for a National Book Critic’s Circle Award for “Ferber: A Biography of Edna Ferber and Her Circle”and a Pulitzer Prize nomination for “Opposite Attraction: The Lives of Erich Maria Remarque and Paulette Goddard.” She has taught fiction writing and playwriting at New York University and Florida Atlantic University, as well as running The Writers’ Academy at the Kravis Center.
Classes with Gilbert are offered for every stage of writing, from beginner to advanced, starting January 9, 2024, at the Eunice and Julian Cohen Pavilion. The classes include Kickstart Your Writing Ability to Advanced Technique II,
Advanced Technique I – January 9 through March 19, 2024; by invitation
This course of six sessions of 2 hours each is by invitation only. It is for dedicated writers who have worked with Gilbert in establishing voice, technique, style, work habits, projects and durability. Advanced Technique I is for the writer who has decided upon the ‘writing life.’
Advanced Technique II (Virtual via the Zoom Platform) – January 16 through March 26, 2024; by invitation
This course has the same requirements and follows the same format as Advanced Technique I but is offered via Zoom.
Kickstart Your Writing Ability – January 11, 2024 at 1:30 p.m.; tickets $30
An experience for the curious and adventurous, Kickstart is for those about to take the exciting leap into writing. Learn how to release the writer within and how to unlock your very own muse with Julie Gilbert.
Writers’ Launch – January 25 through February 29, 2024; tickets $325
Writers’ Launch is just that – a pad from which to raise written expression. Within every person, there are unspoken thoughts and memories, there is buried treasure. This course is designed to alchemize this unexpressed bounty into a discipline of form, content, technique and style, resulting in a story. The focus and goal of this is toward a fictional story.
“We are deeply grateful to the Cornelia T. Bailey Foundation for their generous support towards our education programs at the Kravis Center,” said Diane Quinn, CEO of the Kravis Center. “Through their invaluable contribution, we continue to ignite the spark of creativity, curiosity and love for the arts, fostering a future where these virtues are celebrated and cherished.”
The Kravis Center is a not-for-profit performing arts center located at 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm Beach, presenting a diverse schedule of national and international artists and companies of the highest quality, by offering comprehensive arts education programs; by providing a Palm Beach County home for local and regional arts organizations to showcase their work; and by being an economic catalyst and providing community leadership in West Palm Beach, supporting efforts to increase travel and tourism to Palm Beach County. For general information about the Kravis Center, please visitwww.kravis.org.
Kick off the holiday season with a beloved ballet classic—featuring three full-length, magical performances
Oct. 16, 2023 (Jupiter, Fla.) — Just in time for the holidays, Paris Ballet will once again bring the spellbinding magic of The Nutcrackerto The Palm Beaches.
Three performances at the 750-seat Eissey Campus Theatre in Palm Beach Gardens are slated for Saturday, November 18 (7 p.m.) and Sunday, November 19, 2023 (1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.) Tickets start at $25 and are selling fast.
Set to the memorable score by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, the full-length production will feature thrilling choreography by the school’s founder and director Jean-Hugues Feray. It will also showcase the talents of young dancers ages 3 to 18—including five longtime Paris Ballet students with lead roles: Nicholas Bondar, Maia DeOreo, Endia Banks, Raelin Flanigan, and Isabella Gutierrez.
Don’t let their ages fool you. These award-winning advanced and pre-professional dancers bring a level of talent that seasoned professionals envy. There’s no need to hire out-of-town dancers. These young students are the shining stars, bringing high-caliber ballet skills to each performance.
“This is a unique chance to see many exceptional dancers perform before they launch their professional dance careers or continue their training in college,” said Feray, who has also performed as a principal dancer in many international companies, including Ballet Florida and the French National Ballet. “I am proud of the hard work our dedicated students put into their craft, and I can’t wait for everyone to see the show.”
The annual production has become a beloved family holiday tradition. With dazzling costumes, extraordinary sets (including a growing Christmas tree that doubles in height onstage), and phenomenal special effects, audiences will be transported to an enchanting winter wonderland of sparkling snowfall, colorful flowers and splendid sweets.
Based on the Alexandre Dumas adaptation of E.T.A. Hoffmann’s 1816 tale The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, the timeless ballet tells the story of a young girl named Clara, who is given a magical Nutcracker doll on Christmas Eve. After encountering and defeating the Rat King, her beloved Nutcracker comes to life—as a real, handsome prince who guides her on an astounding journey through the incredibly bright and fantastic Land of Snow and Kingdom of Sweets. Since the 1940s, the ballet has grown exponentially in popularity and now serves as an iconic holiday tradition worldwide.
Tickets start at $25. To purchase tickets, call (561) 207-5900 or visit the Eissey Campus Theatre Box Office. Guests can also purchase tickets online.
West Palm Beach, FL- Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce, and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Palm Beach County, in collaboration with the Western Palm Beach County Farm Bureau, will host, the annual Farm City Luncheon on Thursday, November 15, 2023, at 11:15am. The luncheon is presented by Baptist Health South Florida and will take place at the South Florida Fairgrounds Expo Center West
The Annual Farm City luncheon was created to highlight the important economic contribution of the agricultural industry in Palm Beach County. This year’s theme is Farming Today for Tomorrow will feature a panel of young farmers who will be sharing the innovative ways that farming production has changed and evolved to ensure a sustainable future. Prior to the panel, Florida Agriculture and Consumer Services Commissioner, Wilton Simpson, will address the audience.
The attendees of governmental, community, and business leaders are given the opportunity to learn more about the agricultural community and the positive impact they have on Palm Beach County. All attendees receive a complimentary box of locally grown produce courtesy of local farmers.
The Farm City Economic Luncheon will take place at the South Florida Fairgrounds Expo West, located at 9067 Southern Blvd. from 11:15 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. Individual entry tickets are $50, and tables are $750.
For more information on this luncheon and future events, please visit the Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce website at www.cpbchamber.com, or email: [email protected] call: (561) 790-6200.
+ Spirit Walk Imagery Board Game on the Great Lawn – November 11
+ Dogs’ Day in the Garden – November 12
+ Awakening Hearts with Casa Rituals – November 12
+ Heart Opening Cacao Workshop with Casa Rituals – November 19
+ Full Moon Release Ceremony with Casa Rituals – November 26
+ Building Strong Trees – November 30
Friends of the Mounts Botanical Garden will be hosting 26 fun and informative workshops, classes, and special events throughout the month of November, including the always popular Plant-a-Palooza Fall Plant Sale.
“As we revel in the slightly cooler weather of fall, November is the perfect month for people of all ages to come out and enjoy many of the happy and healthy horticultural events at our beautiful 20-acre oasis, located just minutes from downtown West Palm Beach,” invites Mounts Curator-Director RochelleWolberg.
November 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
Qi Gong
with Roxanne Cumberland
Wednesdays, 10:00 am to 11:00 am
$10 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.
$25 for members; $30 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission). Classes are nonrefundable.
Registration is required; size is limited to 30 adults.
This mat Pilates class focuses on building strength, increasing flexibility, and reducing stress. The class incorporates contemporary pilates repertoire with whole-person framework modalities. The exercises are low impact and excellent for enhancing mind-body connection. All levels are welcome, and modifications will be offered to ensure a pain-free experience. Class Supplies: yoga mat and water, exercise bands (optional), yoga block (optional), and hand/ankle eights (optional).
+ Saturday, November 4: members only preview 8:00 to 9:00 am; open to public 9:00 am to 4:00 pm (last entry 3:00 pm)
+ Sunday, November 5: open to public 9:00 am to 3:00 pm (last entry 2:30 pm)
FREE for members of Mounts Botanical Garden. For nonmembers, admission is $15 (adults); $12 (seniors 65+, college students and military with ID); $7 (ages 6-17); free for children under 6 and AHS Reciprocal Admission Program members.
Tickets are non-refundable.
This popular Fall Plant Sale features the highest quality of well-known plant growers and experts from across the State of Florida. Visitors have the opportunity to fully engage in the world of plants and learn new gardening techniques, discover what’s trending in floral design, and enjoy Mounts Botanical’s tranquil tropical oasis all at the same time.
+ 70+ sought-after top growers and vendors.
+ Shop a wide variety of rare, exotic, and hard-to-find orchids, plants, trees, herbs, ornamentals, succulents, cactus, bonsai, butterfly/native plants, shrubs, and fruit trees, as well as garden accessories, baskets, fine crafts, and more.
+ Learn about South Florida’s plant culture by speaking directly with growers.
+ Fun and informative presentations by speakers and authors who are experts in their respective fields.
+ Plus, additional horticultural ‘must-haves’ and unique treasures from your home and garden are also available in the Garden’s Nursery and Vintage Garden Thrift Shop.
+ Food and dessert trucks at the Garden throughout both days.
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 the instructor with assistance from the 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.
+ Saturday & Sunday, November 18 & 19: 9:30 am to 11:30 am
$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 the 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.
$25 for Mounts members; $35 for nonmembers; per session (includes full Garden admission). Classes are nonrefundable.
Registration is required; class size is limited.
Walking with spirit is a playful journey and playfulness is the new wellness. Take a mental break before the busy holiday season by focusing on one’s own inner joy. Experience a one-of-a-kind spiritual game where all choices are right, and everybody wins. The Garden makes a perfect setting for this outdoor journey of reconnection. Four people per game will sit together while playing individually. Others in attendance are invited to observe and hold space creating a sacred container. Participants will be guided through a series of choices involving the sense of sight, smell, touch, sound, and especially intuition. Each participant will arrange their own choices and determine its meaning, accompanied by live Native American flute music. The culmination of the game is a unique takeaway. Everyone will choose a special memory stone so that every time it is held, it will evoke memories of the moments, the messages, and the joy. Potential benefits may include:
+ Improving overall peace of mind
+ Reuniting a sense of playfulness
+ Stimulating and energizing well-being
+ Improving self-love and building confidence
+ Reducing anxiety and creating calming effect
+ Triggering release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemical
FREE for MBG members and children under 6; $15 for nonmember adults; $15 for seniors 65+, college students, and military with ID; $7 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.
A New Moon 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.
Registration is required; class size is limited to 2o adults; classes are nonrefundable.
Open to anyone who is curious to know more about cacao, start their journey with cacao, or who already work with cacao and want to reconnect with this heart medicine, this workshop will share the benefits of drinking cacao; the origin of cacao and a visit to the cacao tree at Mounts; how to make and drink cacao in a ritualistic way; a guided heart opening meditation; sharing circle and Q&A; and a closing a sacred space.
Notes:
+ Please bring a blanket/yoga mat to sit on, water, journal, and an open mind and open heart.
+ No alcohol on the day of the ceremony and no caffeine three hours before and after the event.
Re-setting with Ceremonial Cacao and Sound Healing
With Casa Rituals
Sunday, 10:00 am to Noon
$25 for members; $35 for nonmembers(includesfullGarden admission).
Registration isrequired; class size is limited to 30 adults; classes are nonrefundable.
Under arrival participants will receive a ceremonial smudging and blessing 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.
$15 for members; $25 for nonmembers(includesfullGarden admission).
Registration isrequired; class size is limited to 25 adults; classes are nonrefundable.
Ever wondered, do I need to trim my trees? Can I trim them myself? What is hurricane pruning? Is there a difference between pruning palms and deciduous trees? When is the best time to prune trees? Find out the answers to these questions and learn how to make trees stronger and less likely to break in wind with ISA Board Certified Master Arborist Jonathan Frank from Bartlett Tree Experts. The pruning of trees will always have an impact on the way that trees respond in wind storms. Some pruning will reduce the risk of wind damage, while other types of pruning actually increases the likelihood of damage from wind.
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. Recently 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.
Palm Beach County, FL (OCTOBER 15, 2023) – Impact Next-Gen is proud to announce its mission to empower the youth of Palm Beach County while positively impacting the local community through a unique approach to philanthropy. As the youth-led chapter of Impact the Palm Beaches, Impact Next-Gen is committed to fostering a culture of giving, generosity, and social responsibility among young people.
At Impact Next-Gen, we believe that the future belongs to our youth, and we empower them to be changemakers today. Our organization operates on a quarterly grant cycle, where members contribute $30 four times a year, collectively forming a giving circle. These contributions enable us to provide much-needed support to local charities and nonprofits that are working tirelessly to improve the lives of underserved populations in our community.
We take pride in our personal approach to giving, as our donations are made in person during site visits to the selected recipients. This unique experience allows our teen members to witness firsthand the positive changes their contributions make. To date, we have donated a total of $2,350 to various local nonprofits, including the Literacy Coalition of Palm Beach County, Feed the Hungry Pantry of Palm Beach County, Speak up for Kids, and Meals on Wheels.
Impact Next-Gen is a 100% youth-led initiative co-founded by Suncoast High School sophomore Alex Losquadro, and Oxbridge Academy senior Elena French-Nino. Together, they are leading a passionate team of young philanthropists from several other Palm Beach County high schools who are committed to creating lasting change in the lives of those less fortunate.
Our organization is open to rising freshman students through high school seniors, providing a unique opportunity for young individuals to develop their leadership skills, foster a sense of civic responsibility, and learn the value of giving back to the community. We believe that by educating the next generation about the importance of teen giving, we can create a brighter future for all.
If you want to become a member, sponsor our cause, or learn more about Impact Next-Gen, visit our website, impactnextgenpb.com, or contact us via phone or email.
When: 8 to 11 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 21. Ghost Prowl begins at 10 p.m.
Where: Yesteryear Village at the South Florida Fairgrounds, 9067 Southern Blvd., West Palm Beach
Details: Costumes & Cocktails is suited for those 21 and older who are looking for a place to strut their Halloween costumes, get in the Halloween groove with dancing, or simply want to have some fun with friends for a grown-up trick-or-treat experience. Cocktails and light bites also are part of the mix as is the chance to win a $500 cash prize for the best costume!
One $35 admission ticket includes one signature cocktail, trick-or-treating for grown-ups, a 360 Photo Booth, costume contest, and all-night dancing with DJ Kid Carter & DJ Matte Black. Cash bar and food trucks also will be available.
An optional Ghost Prowl begins at 10 p.m. Guests will be guided through Yesteryear Village structures that are said to be haunted for a unique, intimate and exclusive paranormal experience. Tickets are $60 per person and include admission to Costumes & Cocktails. Ghost Prowl tickets cannot be purchased separately.
64 12-and-Under Girls and 64 12-and-Under Boys descended on Wycliffe Golf & Country Club in Wellington, FL for this three-day Columbus Day weekend annual USTA event.
Though it rained every day for the week previous to the event, the weather cooperated, and the three days went on without any interruptions or delays.
For the girl’s event, Isabella Gonzalez of Boca Raton, the number 3 seed defeated the number 1 seed Isha Manchala of Hilton Head Island, SC 7-5, 6-1 to take home the first-place medal.
On the boys’ side, number one seed Luke Jones from Port Saint Lucie had a very strong tournament and beat unseeded Daniel Osipenko of Ft. Myers, who along the way defeated the #2 seed in the first round, 6-1, 6-0 in the finals.
As usual, Wycliffe hosted a great event for all of the players and spectators.
Michele Heary and Marco Chianese of Asprey and Melissa Sullivan honored major donors of the West Palm Beach Library Foundation’s Food for Thought Dinner with a Kick-Off Champagne Reception on October 5, 2023, at Melissa Sullivan’s home.
“Our Library Foundation is so grateful to Melissa Sullivan (pictured at right) for her inspired leadership and tireless work to ensure the success of our premier fundraiser, Food for Thought. We thank Asprey for the elegant reception and all of our donors for their continuing support of our work,” stated Steve Mayans (also pictured at right), WPB Library Foundation, Board Chair.
“It was Asprey’s pleasure to underwrite the champagne reception at Melissa Sullivan’s Palm Beach home,” said Michele Heary, Asprey’s Executive Vice-President. “This event was held to celebrate the generous donors of the Library Foundation and their mission to financially support the life-changing programs, services, and resources of the Mandel Public Library of West Palm Beach.”
Guests enjoyed a champagne toast and reception, and finger bites such as Shrimp with basil pesto; Grilled zucchini, cherry tomato, with basil oil; Saffron rice ball “arancini”; and Mini crab cake from Bice Restaurant of Palm Beach.
Host and Food for Thought chair Melissa Sullivan welcomed guests that included: Michele Heary; Marco Chianese; Diane Myers; Julie and Howard Rudolph; Trey and Lindsay Mahoney; Matthew and Adrienne Raptis; Jeff and Gina Sabean; Carissa and Daren Robinson; Corinne Dandeneau; Steve Mayans, Chair of the Library Foundation Board, and Terry Resk; David and Donna Dodson; Nancy Marshall; Dean Dimke, Library Foundation CEO; and Lisa Hathaway, Director of the Mandel Public Library.
The Food for Thought Dinner, to be held November 4, 2023, at the Norton Museum of Art, brings Foundation patrons and friends together with Table Hosts who lead lively conversations. Guests choose their table based on their favorite topics ranging from authors, entertainers, and community notables, while enjoying an evening of delicious dining and stimulating banter. Guest speaker will be award-winning journalist and author Carl Hiaasen.Tickets and sponsorship opportunities for the 2023 event are available by calling 561-868-7717.
PRESENTS ‘A NIGHT OF HONOR’ GALA, ON NOVEMBER 4 AT PGA NATIONAL RESORT
The Wounded Veterans Relief Fund is excited to announce its 12th Annual Gala, “A Night of Honor,” at the beautiful PGA National Resort on Saturday, November 4th. This exceptional event, dedicated to honoring active military and veterans, features an opening ceremony led by Palm Beach Pipes and Drums, live music, a Marine Corps color guard presentation, heartfelt veteran stories, and special guest awards.
“We are tremendously proud to host our 12th Annual Gala this year,” said Wounded Veterans Relief Fund Executive Director Michael Durkee, US Army combat veteran. “Every year, this Gala provides us with a platform to showcase the urgent need for services throughout Florida. Thank you to our supporters for their boundless generosity. We are excited to unveil some major changes that will allow us to serve more veterans throughout Florida, transforming their lives for a lifetime.”
The black tie optional evening will commence with a cocktail hour at 6 pm, followed by the official program at 7 pm, when dinner will be served. Live music by the six-piece variety band, The Chase Band, will keep you on the dance floor, performing classic rock, pop, disco, funk, swing, and Motown. Veteran’s testimonies will move the crowd as they tell real-life stories about how WRVF has impacted their lives.
A program highlight will feature three distinguished dentists who will be honored and recognized for their unwavering support of the WVRF dental program. The dentists include Dr. Randall Rodriguez-Torres, DMD of USA Dental, Dr. Fred J. Norkin, DMD of South Florida Center For Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, Dr. Zach Kalarickal, DDS of Wesley Chapel Center for Family and Cosmetic Dentistry.
Event chairs include Kate Arrizza, a Navy Veteran and current COX Science Center & Aquarium CEO, and Kimberly Reckley, SVP, Client & Community Relations Director for PNC Bank. WPTV News Anchor Shannon Cake, Senior Vice President of Development United Way Palm Beach County, and Marine Corps Veteran Brian Edwards will emcee the event. We are grateful for their support and for the support of our local dignitaries.
Event sponsors include The Stiles-Nicholson Foundation, PNC Bank, House of David, Hamilton Alliance, Pratt & Whitney, USA Dental, and Cox Center & Aquarium. Flowers are generously donated by Galleria Farms.
Tickets for this honorable evening are priced at $400 per person, sponsorship opportunities are available, and donations are welcomed. By attending or sponsoring the “A Night of Honor” Gala, you will directly support veterans’ lives by preventing homelessness and providing critical dental care for veterans in need.
About the Wounded Veterans Relief Fund: The Wounded Veterans Relief Fund (WVRF) is a veteran-led nonprofit organization that provides urgent financial assistance, critical dental care, and access to professional services for Florida’s eligible wounded veterans. The nonprofit was founded in 2009, and Army Veteran Michael Durkee is the executive director. WVRF is headquartered in North Palm Beach, Florida, with additional team members located in the Pensacola, Tampa, and Orlando regions. “Like” WVRF on Facebook at /WoundedVeteransReliefFund and follow on Instagram at @wvrelieffund and X @WVReliefFund.
Public ceremony will also honor three companion medalist – Jack Day, Steve Popper and Buddy Raney
West Palm Beach, Fla., USA (October 12, 2023) – On Tuesday, November 14, Palm Beach Atlantic (PBA) University will host its annual American Free Enterprise (AFE) medal ceremony to recognize four individuals whose hard work and achievement exemplify the best of the American free enterprise system. PBA has celebrated American Free Enterprise Day since 1984, affirming the values that have built American society and the principles on which the university was founded. The 2023 AFE medalist of the year is Dina Dwyer-Owens, an acclaimed author, motivational speaker and franchise leader. Three business leaders will also be recognized as companion medalists: Steve Popper, founder, president and CEO of Meals of Hope; Jack Day, vice president of Franchise Development for Meals of Hope and Buddy Raney, founder of Raney Construction, Inc, philanthropist and entrepreneur. Since its launch, AFE has recognized 38 medalists and 184 companion medalists.
The 2023 medalist and companion medalists will be honored at 11 a.m., November 14 in the Rubin Arena of the Greene Complex for Sports and Recreation, 1100 S. Dixie Highway in West Palm Beach. The public is invited to attend. The ceremony will feature patriotic music and the color guard. In addition to the recognition of the medalists, the event will honor scholarship recipients, feature patriotic music, live orchestral performances, enchanting choir renditions, and the presence of the Color Guard. The public is invited to celebrate American Free Enterprise Day with PBA. For more information about the free event, visit pba.edu/AFE.
“We are excited to honor individuals who embody the spirit of American Free Enterprise, those whose unwavering commitment to hard work, innovation, and the principles of our great nation have shaped their own success and enriched our society,” said Dr. Debra Schwinn, president of Palm Beach Atlantic University. “Dina Dwyer-Owens, Steve Popper, Jack Day, and Buddy Raney exemplify what can be achieved through determination and entrepreneurial vision. Dina, our esteemed Medalist of the Year, has not only left an indelible mark on the world of franchising, but, through her writing and talks, has inspired countless others to embrace the values of respect, integrity, customer focus, and the joy of the journey. In the spirit of American Free Enterprise, may we continue to celebrate the values that drive progress, innovation, and prosperity.”
Meet the Awardees:
Medalist of the Year
As medalist of the year, Dina Dwyer-Owens has more than 40 years leadership experience, including 15 years as CEO of Dwyer Group (now the world’s largest franchisor of home services brands called Neighborly). Much of America knows her best for going undercover as a participant in Season 3 of CBS’ hit reality show, “Undercover Boss,” then again in Season 4 of the show on its first-ever episode of “Epic Bosses.” In 2005, Dwyer-Owens released her first book, “Live R.I.C.H.: How to build success in your company and your life with a proven Code of Values,” and became a popular international motivational speaker on the topic of Living
R.I.C.H. (Respect, Integrity, Customer focus and Having fun in the process). In 2015, she released her second book, “Values, Inc.,” which was chosen as a Top-Ten business book by Forbes. Dwyer-Owens is the 2010 past chair of the International Franchise Association (IFA), the world’s oldest and largest organization representing franchising worldwide. In this role, she testified on behalf of small business owners before the United States House of Representatives Committee, was a guest speaker to the China Franchise Expo in Beijing and shared the stage with President George W. Bush at the 2010 Annual Convention for the IFA. Dwyer-Owens also spearheaded the reintroduction of the IFA’s VetFran program in 2001, which now includes some 650 franchisors that offer franchising financial incentives to veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces. To date, more than 6,000 military veterans have become franchise owners through the VetFran program. In 2002, the IFA awarded her the Bonny LeVine Award, its highest award for women who mentor other women and advance the careers of women in franchising. She is also the first solo female member to be inducted into the IFA Hall of Fame. A globally renowned speaker, Dwyer-Owens is frequently interviewed on national podcasts and in leading media outlets including USA Today, Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Bloomberg, Forbes. She gives God all the glory for the opportunities He has provided and is especially grateful for her family.
Companion Medalists
Stephen Popper is the visionary founder, president, and CEO of Meals of Hope, a remarkable nonprofit organization dedicated to combating hunger nationwide. Popper’s journey began in 2007 when he responded to a call for food assistance in Haiti while serving as Principal of a Wholesale Lumber Company. This generous spirit led to the birth of Meals of Hope, sparked by a community-wide meal packing event involving 500 volunteers who packed an astounding 135,000 Dried Fortified Meals. Inspired by this achievement, Steve and his wife, Charissa, set a goal to pack 1,000,000 meals in a year. Since then, Meals of Hope has developed eight unique meals and packed almost 100,000,000 meals. The organization’s multifaceted approach includes operating 15 weekly Food Pantries in SWFL, distributing 10,000 Backpacks of Food monthly to underprivileged elementary school children, and organizing meal-packing events nationwide. What makes Meals of Hope exceptional is its pioneering franchise model, offering entrepreneurs the opportunity to build their businesses while supporting the nonprofit’s mission. Meals of Hope anticipates packing over 15,000,000 meals in 2024, significantly impacting the fight against hunger across the United States. Steve’s dedication and leadership have truly made a difference in alleviating hunger throughout the country.
Jack Dayserves as the vice president of franchise development at Meals of Hope, Inc., where he plays a pivotal role in shaping the company’s strategic direction for its meal packing business franchising. With his extensive experience and prior position as Director of Franchise Operations, Day has successfully developed their unique nonprofit-for-profit franchise model, resulting in the awarding of eight franchise territories within the first 18 months. Meals of Hope envisions expanding its impact across states with over 64 planned franchise territories, offering investors the opportunity to build successful businesses while providing nutritious meals to those in need nationwide. Before joining Meals of Hope, Jack accrued 37 years of senior management experience in the semiconductor industry, culminating in his role as Director of Foundry Operations, overseeing multiple subcontract suppliers and a $500M operating budget.
Buddy Raney is the visionary founder of Raney Construction, Inc. which he started in 1997. Emerging from a challenging background with limited formal education, he has displayed exceptional resilience, innovative thinking, and a keen business acumen as he navigated the intricacies of the construction industry. In 2008, amid the challenging financial crisis, he confronted significant adversity as bank lending evaporated, business loans were called in, and credit lines disappeared. Undeterred, Raney undertook a remarkable business transformation, embracing vertical integration and cutting-edge automation to streamline construction, minimize errors, and enhance quality. By 2019, Raney Construction had flourished, expanding exponentially with numerous divisions, a workforce of hundreds, and an impressive industrial presence. In 2019, the company was sold to Builders FirstSource, Inc. He is now a philanthropist and entrepreneur, and he and his wife, Connie, founded the Anchored Support Foundation, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to “help those going through a hardship.” The goal is to “follow Jesus’ example by sharing compassion through unexpected blessings.”, bestowing newfound wealth, prompting introspection and a reevaluation of his life’s purpose.
Read more about American Free Enterprise Day and past recipients here.
About Palm Beach Atlantic University
Palm Beach Atlantic University, founded in 1968, is a private, Christian university, offering 55 undergraduate degrees, numerous graduate degrees and professional degrees in nursing and pharmacy, with a 29-acre campus in West Palm Beach and an Orlando campus and the 78-acre Marshall and Vera Lea Rinker Athletic Campus provides facilities for training and hosting intercollegiate sports. Sailfish athletes compete in 18 NCAA Division II and Sunshine State Conference varsity sports. PBA affirms the values that have built American society, including religious liberty and the free enterprise system. The university is dedicated to the integration of biblical principles to prepare students for learning, leadership and service. Learn more at www.pba.edu.
