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FAU Lab Schools Receives $2M Grant to Establishthe Marcus Research and Innovation Center

Florida Atlantic University Laboratory Schools received a $2 million grant from The Marcus Foundation, established by Bernie Marcus, to launch the Marcus Research and Innovation Center at the A.D. Henderson University School and FAU High School campus in Boca Raton. This grant will enhance the pipeline of students at Henderson and FAU High as they strive to become talented researchers and innovators who can address the country’s most pressing challenges, while becoming part of a highly skilled workforce to meet the needs of the nation. It also will help to re-engineer education to train future school leaders and educators.

“The science, innovation and research that will occur within the Marcus Research and Innovation Center will expose and engage youth at early ages in these important fields, and could be an educational model for the rest of the country,” said Marcus, chairman of The Marcus Foundation.

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Games

STATEPOINT CROSSWORD

THEME: SPACE

ACROSS

1. House pest 6. Emergency responder, acr. 9. Meme dance moves 13. Below, prefix 14. Swimmer’s distance 15. Not urban 16. Take a base 17. Grazing spot 18. Stressful or unnerving 19. *Clint Eastwood’s “Space ____” 21. *First U.S. space station 23. Salty dog’s domain 24. Fail to mention 25. Spermatozoa counterpart 28. Ukrainian person, e.g. 30. State of submission 35. Network of nerves 37. Muscle or strength

39. ____ Mara, Africa

40. Shapeless form

41. Cliffside dwelling

43. *Saturn’s environs, sing.

44. Poetic feet

46. Darn a sock, e.g.

47. Per person

48. Rendezvouses

50. Mine entrance

52. After-tax amount

53. Litter’s littlest

55. French vineyard

57. *Sun’s outer layer, not beer brand

60. *Second S in ISS

64. Ancient Celtic priest

65. Sun kiss

67. “Mea ____,” or “my fault”

68. *”From the Earth to the Moon” author

69. In the past

70. Judge

71. Education station 72. Order’s partner 73. Food between meals DOWN

1. Reduced Instruction Set Computer 2. “I’m ____ you!”

3. Not many (2 words) 4. Dungeness and snow, e.g.

5. *Circles of light around sun and moon

6. 90-degree pipes, e.g. 7. *____ Jamison, the first African-American woman in space 8. Tetanus symptom 9. Two-fold

10. Diva’s solo 11. Prickle on a wire 12. Sylvester Stallone’s nickname 15. Johnny Cash’s “Get ____” 20. Churchill/Roosevelt/Stalin meeting site 22. Model-builder’s purchase

24. Gorge oneself 25. *Planet’s path 26. Type of consonant 27. Skeleton, archaic 29. Attention-getting interjection

LAST WEEK RESULT

31. Like pink steak 32. Of the Orient

33. Jousting pole

34. *____-year

36. Opposite of flows

38. *Solar ____, sun’s emission

42. Authoritative proclamation

45. Walked with long steps

49. *Solar System center

51. Parcels

54. Birth-related 56. One-eighty 57. Manitoba native 58. Couple’s pronoun

59. Dorothy Hamill’s turf

60. Jon of “Game of Thrones”

61. Pelvic parts

62. Petroleum-exporting grp.

63. Police informer

64. VHS successor 66. Palindromic title

COMMUNITY The Boca Raton Tribune

Record-breaking Tourism Numbers Announced as The Palm Beaches Celebrate The Power of Tourism at Travel Rally Day

West Palm Beach, FL – Discover The Palm Beaches (DTPB), the official tourism marketing organization for Palm Beach County, announced record-breaking first quarter tourism numbers and hosted key industry representatives from the travel and tourism community during the national celebration of Travel Rally Day at Manatee Lagoon – An FPL Eco-Discovery Center on Thursday, May 23, 2024.

At the event, DTPB President & CEO Milton Segarra reported the highest-ever tourism numbers for The Palm Beaches during the first three months of 2024. Visitation during this period exceeded last year’s figures by 1%, with a record-breaking 2.8 million visitors. Visitor spending showed a growth of more than 4% compared to the same period last year with a spend of $2.26 billion, and international visitation grew 13% with more than 302,000 visitors from other countries.

In addition, at the Travel Rally Day celebration, Mr. Rick Rose was awarded the 32nd Annual Providencia Award, and the DTPB Partner of the Year Awards recognized The Ben Hotel in the accommodations category, as well as Visit Palm Beach in the non-accommodations category.

Travel Rally Day concludes the 41st annual National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW), highlighting the collective strength of the U.S. travel industry to champion the power of the

tourism industry in powering our nation’s economy, communities, and connections. NTTW spotlights the critical role that travel plays in stimulating economic growth, cultivating vibrant communities, elevating the quality of life for residents, creating quality job opportunities, and inspiring new businesses.

The Providencia Award is given by DTPB to a local business, organization or individual who has demonstrated an extraordinary contribution to the vitality and prosperity of The Palm Beaches as a desirable tourist destination. The winners are chosen by public vote. Nominees this year included the following: PGA National Resort, Related Companies: CityPlace & Hilton West Palm Beach, and Mr. Rick Rose, author of Palm Beach: The Essential Guide to America’s Legendary Resort Town.

DTPB also awards the Partner of the Year Awards in two categories, accommodation and non-accommodation, to recognize tourism organizations whose commendable efforts help DTPB achieve its mission, vision, and brand promise by implementing innovative tourism programs and participation in destination marketing programs.

“Travel Rally Day offers us an opportunity to shine a light on the importance of tourism to our local economy and to recognize the attractions, hotels, and individuals who have played a significant role in attracting visitors and providing memorable experiences in our county,” stated Segarra. “Thanks to our exceptional partners, The Palm Beaches welcomed a record-breaking 2.8 million visitors in the first quarter of 2024 and achieved a record-breaking $2.26 billion in visitor spending during

that time period. We are excited to set even more records this year, as tourism continues to thrive as the primary economic driver of The Palm Beaches, embodying a shared community value in shaping and promoting our brand globally.”

The travel and hospitality industry in The Palm Beaches accounts for more than 85,000 jobs and generates a $10.3 billion economic impact, which represents 11% of the county’s total economic activity. To learn more about National Travel and Tourism Week.

Discover The Palm Beaches is the tourism marketing corporation for the collection of 39 cities and towns known as The Palm Beaches in Southeast Florida, stretching from Boca Raton to Jupiter. Tasked with growing visitation and the local tourism economy, the organization works year-round to bring travelers to visit Palm Beach County. The Palm Beaches have a rich history as America’s First Resort Destination®, where genuine hospitality is a way of life among a vibrant and welcoming blend of people, cultures and coastal towns. Tourism is among the county’s major industries, generating an annual economic impact of approximately $10 billion and supporting more than 85,000 local jobs. For more information about The Palm Beaches, visit www.ThePalmBeaches.com or follow on social media on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, X, Threads, Pinterest and LinkedIn.

The Ben Accommodation Partner of the Year – Bernardo Neto, Elena Peroulakis, and Emilio Zarrilli

Visit Palm Beach Non-Accommodation Partner of the Year – Brian Marozzi,

2024 Providencia Award Winner Rick Rose

Middle Schoolers Learn First Hand About Being Better Coastal Stewards

Boca Raton, FL – The Coastal Stewards, a nonprofit organization that sponsors marine life conservation, hosted students from Carver Middle School today for a Beach Clean Up in Ocean Ridge. As part of the clean-up, the sixth, seventh and eighth graders –who are part of the WiseTribe group – learned about micro and macro plastics, how plastics on the beach impact our coastal and marine life, and how to better coastal stewards.

Dr. Harrison Albert, Education Coordinator for the Coastal Stewards, is currently conducting a yearlong study looking at the amount and types of litter and plastics found on the beach. His work is being led by the Coastal Stewards Youth Council.

The Coastal Stewards host monthly beach clean ups, which are open to the public. They also host individual groups and schools – as they did today – as requested. To learn more, join the Youth Council, or schedule a beach clean-up, visit www.TheCoastalStewards.org.

ida’s coastal waters. Their innovative approach utilizes technology to share compelling narratives, and actively collaborate with like-minded organizations in observation, rescue, transportation, rehabilitation, research, and release of marine animals.

“Through initiatives like our beach clean-up and other eco-friendly activities, we aim to inspire individuals to take ownership of our planet’s well-being and work towards a sustainable future,” said Dr. Harrison Albert. “We invite everyone to join us in these efforts and make a positive impact on our environment.”

The Coastal Stewards are dedicated to inspiring people to be lifelong champions for the sea turtles, manatees, whales, and dolphins that grace Flor-

The Coastal Stewards was established in 2012 as Friends of Gumbo Limbo and is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that sponsors marine life conservation. The mission of Coastal Stewards is to inspire people to support the stewardship and research of coastal and marine ecosystems. In 2023, The Coastal Stewards expanded its focus on the rescue, rehabilitation, research and release of sea turtles to incorporate marine life including seagrass, dolphins, manatees and whales. The Coastal Stewards’ mission’s pillars—sustainability, engagement, and awareness—guide us toward a brighter, thriving coastal future. Learn more at www.thecoastalstewards.org.

Photos: Courtesy of The Coastal Stewards

Local Mental Health Activist Honored Nationally

By Marci Shatzman

What better way to celebrate a lifetime of achievement during National Mental Health Awareness Month in May than receiving a national award with your daughter.

Boca Raton’s Promise founder and mental health activist Rita Thrasher, and medical professional entrepreneur Marla Kosec of West Palm Beach were among honorees at Ellis Island Honor Society’s 37th annual Ellis Island Medals of Honors awards May 18 on Ellis Island, New York.

They were in good company. Whoopi Goldberg, Priscilla Presley and Susan and David Rockefeller were among this year’s medal recipients. The awards have been presented since 1986 to “inspiring Americans who are selflessly working for the betterment of our country and its citizens.” Past recipients have included seven presidents from Ronald Reagan, Bill Clinton and Joe Biden, to luminaries from Muhammed Ali to Nobel Prize laureates Elie Wiesel and Malala Yousufzai.

At 92 ½, Thrasher’s name is synonymous with mental health awareness efforts. The retired educator lost two of her three daughters to mental illness. Those tragedies inspired her to launch decades’ long mental health campaigns like “breaking the silence – community conversations,” “stop the stigma” and

“I am 1,” to promote awareness.

The organization partners with Palm Beach County Action Alliance for Mental Health to identify needs and resources, and collaborates on the national certification program Mental Health First Aid.

This is the first national honor for Thrasher, but she has been honored locally. Palm Beach District schools recognized her advocacy, and the Palm Beach County Commission declared March 2022 as Rita Thrasher Month in Palm Beach County.

This national recognition means so much to her and Marla, they had an official sendoff at Arturo’s Ristorante in Boca Raton to thank everyone who has supported them all these years.

Thrasher isn’t done, yet. “I feel honored and obligated to make the most of this opportunity,” Thrasher said after she and her daughter arrived home. She plans to retire later this year, but continues to reach out to Boca Raton and individuals to make mental wellness for youth a priority.

She and Marla are friends of the family of Ellis Island Honor Society chairman Nasser J. Kazeminy. The mission statement of the Ellis Island Honors Society is “Immigration Works for America.” The society “creates scholarships with a focus on immigration, supports cultural events and programs around the nation, and mobilizes our community of Ellis Island Medal of Honor recipients to raise funds for disaster relief worldwide.”

“As we gather to honor these remarkable individuals, we are reminded of the enduring spirit of inclusivity and resilience that has defined America throughout its history. The recipients of the Ellis Island Medal of Honor embody these ideals, serving as beacons of inspiration for generations to come,” the society stated when it announced this year’s award honorees.

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What would be the primary traits you would consider essential for effective leadership? Would you include qualities such as vision, courage, determination, perseverance, charisma, communication skills, and intelligence? How about character traits such as honesty, integrity, generosity, and humility?

One quality that stands out to me probably would not appear near the top of many people’s lists: Love. What I am referring to is not what usually comes to mind at first – emotions, romance, self-centered feelings that can disappear as quickly as they appear. No, I am talking about the kind of love that serves to positively shape an organization’s corporate culture.

By corporate culture, I am referring to beliefs that affect behaviors, determining how a company’s employees and management interact. Research has discovered 73% of employees do not believe their organization’s values. Of the

“When the master comes and finds the servant doing his work, the servant will be blessed.” Luke 12:43 (NCV)

All of us have unused abilities. But there are three ways that you can start cultivating your abilities so that they are being used for good and for God’s glory.

1. Estimate your abilities.

Do an assessment of your life. Do an audit of your abilities. What are you good at doing? Make a list. If there’s one thing I could say to young people today to prepare for their future, this is it: Know your strengths. Know your weaknesses. Consider the capabilities

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FAITH

By JOHN JOHNSON

How Love Can Propel Your Business

remaining 27%, 77% of those who do believe the organization’s values cannot apply them to their job. This is a serious employee/employer disconnect limiting productivity.

Love – the kind that strives to put the needs and interests of others first, seeking their best – can make the difference and totally transform an organization’s culture. My book, Love As a Management Practice, explains the motivating power of love at work. Here are some of the benefits:

Morale. Treated with love, coworkers experience increased personal job satisfaction.

Margins. Loved employees act more responsibly, making them better stewards of time and resources, and generate increasingly better results.

Product/service performance. Loved employees are increasingly motivated to

contribute their best efforts to the organization’s mission, which is to benefit customers of products and services.

Customer satisfaction. Improved job satisfaction results in more satisfactory response to the needs of internal and external customers.

Return on investment. This is the increasing net effect of a well-treated, productive workforce.

This leads to the greatest benefit of all: Spiritual. Love as a management practice is not a clever phrase or strategy designed by a management consultant. It is anchored in the Bible, aimed for the benefit of others and most importantly, pointing to God – the ultimate source of love. Consider the following:

Love has an outward focus. In His earthly ministry, Jesus Christ taught that love should be central to everything we do. “Love the Lord your God with all

By Rick Warren

What to Do With Unused Ability

God has given you.

Parents, help your kids understand their SHAPE—their Spiritual gifts, Heart, Abilities, Personality, and Experiences. Your children have far more abilities than they think.

2. Dedicate your abilities.

Commit them to God for the use he intended. Romans 12:1 says, “Offer yourselves as a living sacrifice to God, dedicated to his service and pleasing to him” (GNT). Say, “God, you gave me these abilities. Now I’m going to give them back to you. I want to use them for the purpose for which you gave them to me.”

3. Cultivate your abilities.

That means you practice, improve, sharpen, and develop them. Any ability that God has given you can be increased with use. The Bible says in Ecclesiastes 10:10, “If the ax is dull and its edge unsharpened, more strength is needed, but skill will bring success” (NIV).

How do you get skill? Practice. God says you need to sharpen your ax. A dull ax takes more energy. He says to work smarter, not harder. Sharpening your abilities—your aptitudes, your skills— is a spiritual responsibility.

God has invested enormously in you. First, he created you. Second, he

your heart, with all your soul and with all your mind, and love your neighbor [coworker/employee]) as yourself” (Matthew 22:36).

Love puts others first. A modern distortion of love is a focus on ourselves –what we can get out of it. Love as the Bible describes it is not self-seeking. “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude…not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs…. And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love” (1 Corinthians 13:4-13).

Love is God’s desire for us. Speaking to His disciples before He would be betrayed, given a mock trial and crucified, Jesus gave them direct instructions: “A new command I give to you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:34-35).

shaped you with spiritual gifts and personality. Then he sent Jesus to die for you. God has made an incredible investment in your life! And he expects a return on the investment. He’s going to ask you one day, “What did you do with what you were given? How did you use your abilities to honor me, to serve others, to make a living, and to be an example? How did you use them to help other people?”

In Luke 12:43, Jesus said, “When the master comes and finds the servant doing his work, the servant will be blessed” (NCV). I want you to have that blessing. I want God to find you using your abilities in the ways that he intended.

DOUGLAS HEIZER

Boca And Deerfield’s First History Hookup

By Marci Shatzman

With both cities’ centennials next year, Boca Raton and Deerfield Beach historical societies joined forces for a casual mutual fundraiser.

“This is a real community collaboration,” Boca Raton Historical Society executive director Mary Csar said to describe the event at Cove Brewery in Deerfield Beach.

“We’re doing giving backs that are very casual,” and family friendly, added board president Olivia Hollaus, sit-

ting with board member and The Addison’s Zoe Lanham.

Presiding over the raffle gift basket tables were The Deerfield Beach Historical Society’s president Kim Cardone, Boca’s curator Sue Gillis and education director Shannon Patron.

The next Boca history event is a family day from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday June 22, featuring a farmers’ market, Charleston dance lessons, and a taste testing from their pioneers cookbook, Gillis said. The event is free and requires an RSVP to 561-395-6766 or email to offi ce@bocahistory.org The “Summer Sips and Sounds” concert series returns in July, Csar added.

Boca Raton will celebrate its centennial next year. “Boca Ratone, spelled with an ‘e,’ was incorporated in 1924, but the state officially recognized us as Boca Raton in 1925,” Gillis said. Deerfi eld Beach was also incorporated in 1925. “I expect more collaborations,” Cardone said.

For exhibits at The Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum, check out https://www.bocahistory.org/ The museum and historical society are in Town Hall at 71 N. Federal Highway with a free parking lot in the rear. https:// www.bocahistory.org/driving-directions

South Florida Photographer, Max Blakesberg Studios, Signed to Wild Apple

Boca Raton, FL – South Florida artist, Max Blakesberg Studios, has been signed by international art licensing agency, Wild Apple Graphics.

Renowned for his breathtaking nature photography, Max Blakesberg brings a unique South Florida flair to Wild Apple’s collection. His mastery of natural light and underwater imagery vividly captures the serene beauty of the natural world, making his work a perfect fit for home decor enthusiasts seeking to bring a touch of nature into their living spaces

“Max’s remarkable ability to tell compelling stories through his lens makes him an invaluable addition to our Wild Apple family,” says Shawn Harned, owner and CEO of Wild Apple. “His art not only captivates but also deeply connects with viewers, aligning with our mission to enrich living spaces with beautiful art.” A South Florida native, Blakesberg’s roots in the creative arts run deep, with a family history rich in artistic expression. His

work has garnered acclaim, with features in prestigious publications such as Rolling Stone and Discovery. Drawing inspiration from iconic photographers like Cristina Mittermeier and Chris Burkard, Max’s photography celebrates the world’s pristine landscapes and vibrant ecosystems.

“I fi nd endless inspiration in the natural beauty of South Florida and beyond,” says Blakesberg. “Partnering with Wild Apple allows me to share the awe-inspiring scenes I encounter with a wider audience, bringing the tranquility and majesty of nature into homes everywhere.”

Blakesberg’s debut collection with Wild Apple features a curated selection of his iconic works. Each piece invites viewers to delve into the stunning depths of nature, making it a perfect addition to any home.

Featured pieces include:

“Eagle Ray Dark” “Blowing Bubbles” “Rocky Shore Hawaii” “Above the Abyss”

For over three decades, Wild Apple has partnered with extraordinary artists to deliver trend-setting and style-forward art, design, and patterns for global home decor collections. As a full-service art licensing agency, Wild Apple continues to expand its diverse array of art themes and styles, catering to the wall and home decor industries worldwide.

Explore Max Blakesberg’s exclusive collection and learn more about Wild Apple’s innovative collaborations at wildapple.com/max-blakesberg-studios/

Dr. Shannon Fox-Levine Receives 2024 Heroes in Medicine Award from PBC Medical Society

Boca Raton, FL – In a heartfelt celebration of medical excellence and community service, the Palm Beach County Medical Society (PBCMS) recently bestowed its prestigious Heroes in Medicine Award upon Dr. Shannon FoxLevine, pediatrician and owner of Palm Beach Pediatrics. Dr. Fox-Levine was honored in the Physician Hero category, recognizing her outstanding contributions to healthcare and her unwavering dedication to the well-being of children and families.

The 21st Annual Heroes in Medicine Awards Luncheon, held on Thurs-

day, May 23, served as a platform to recognize the exceptional efforts of medical professionals who go above and beyond in serving their communities. Among these distinguished individuals, Dr. Fox-Levine stood out for her remarkable commitment to providing comprehensive physical and mental health care to children and young adults.

The Palm Beach County Medical Society, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to uniting physicians and advocating for the interests of both physicians and patients, selected Dr. Fox-Levine for her exemplary service and leadership in the medical field. Founded on principles of professional excellence and ethical standards, PBCMS aims to improve the overall health of the community through collaboration, advocacy, and education.

Dr. Fox-Levine’s journey in pediatric medicine spans decades, marked by compassion, expertise, and a profound sense of duty to her patients. As the owner of Palm Beach Pediatrics, a renowned healthcare provider with offices in Boynton Beach, Loxahatchee Groves, and West Palm Beach, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of pediatric care in Palm Beach County.

With 2024 marking the 40th anniversary of Palm Beach Pediatrics, Dr. FoxLevine’s dedication to her practice and her community has never been more apparent. Throughout the years, she has nurtured countless young lives, offering not only medical treatment but also guidance, support, and advocacy for holistic well-being. Her commitment to pediatric medicine extends beyond the confines of her clinic, as she actively engages in community outreach programs and initiatives aimed at promoting child health and welfare.

Beyond her clinical expertise, Dr. Fox-Levine is recognized for her compassion and empathy, qualities that resonate deeply with patients and families alike. In an era marked by unprecedented challenges, her unwavering dedication to the health and happiness of children serves as an inspiration to her peers and a testament to the power of compassionate care.

As the recipient of the PBCMS Heroes in Medicine Award, Dr. Shannon Fox-Levine embodies the very essence of medical heroism – a tireless advocate for the well-being of children, a beacon of hope for families in need, and a pil-

lar of strength within her community. Her legacy of compassion and service will continue to inspire generations of healthcare professionals and leave an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of those she has touched.

To learn more about Palm Beach Pediatrics and Dr. Shannon Fox-Levine’s work, visit https://pbpediatrics.com.

Passenger Jumps off World’s Largest Cruise Ship

By Catie Kovelman | Cruise News/ Royal Caribbean News

Boca Raton, FL – A male passenger from Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas is in critical condition after jumping overboard only one day into his 7-night Western Caribbean sailing, which embarked on May 25, 2024.

The incident, which occurred on the morning of Sunday, May 26, 2024, unfolded while the world’s largest cruise ship was en route to Roatan, Honduras, from its homeport of Miami, Florida. At the time, the ship was approximately 300 miles from PortMiami and about 30-40 miles north of Santa Lucia, Cuba.

Royal Caribbean stated to Cruise Hive: “The ship’s crew immediately notified the U.S. Coast Guard and launched a search and rescue operation. Our Care Team is actively providing support and assistance to the guest’s loved ones during this difficult time. For the privacy of the guest and their family, we have no additional details to share.“

The emergency was immediately

noticed, and members of the 2,350-person crew sprang into action to stop the ship and begin a search and rescue mission. According to cruise tracking data, the ship halted her course for approximately two hours and stayed put until the man was brought back onboard.

Guests currently onboard the

7,600-passenger ship confirmed the situation by posting videos of two small rescue boats launched from the vessel. Sadly, since being rescued from the water, the man has passed away after initially being in a critical condition.

At this time, it’s unclear what prompted the man to jump. His iden-

tity has been kept confidential to protect the privacy of the passenger and his loved ones.

With the rescue mission ending in success after only a couple hours, Icon of the Seas Western Caribbean itinerary is thus far unaffected by the delay. The new, Icon-class ship should be able to make up time at sea to arrive in Roatan, Honduras, on time on the morning of Monday, May 27.

Before the 248,663-gross ton vessel returns to Miami on June 1, she will also call on Costa Maya, Mexico; Cozumel, Mexico; and Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas, which is the cruise line’s private island destination.

Since her maiden voyage on January 27, 2024, Royal Caribbean’s newest ship has been alternating between 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries, which she is scheduled to continue operating as far out as April of 2026.

Dr. Shannon Fox-Levine

Icon of the Seas Cruise Ship | Photo: Ceri Breeze

Dr. Fox receives award

FAU Lab Schools Receives $2M Grant to Establishthe Marcus Research and Innovation Center

Boca Raton, FL – Florida Atlantic University Laboratory Schools received a $2 million grant from The Marcus Foundation, established by Bernie Marcus, to launch the Marcus Research and Innovation Center at the A.D. Henderson University School and FAU High School campus in Boca Raton. This grant will enhance the pipeline of students at Henderson and FAU High as they strive to become talented researchers and innovators who can address the country’s most pressing challenges, while becoming part of a highly skilled workforce to meet the needs of the nation. It also will help to re-engineer education to train future school leaders and educators.

“The science, innovation and research that will occur within the Marcus Research and Innovation Center will expose and engage youth at early ages in these important fields, and could be an educational model for the rest of the country,” said Marcus, chairman of The Marcus Foundation.

The Marcus Research and Innovation Center will provide more than 12,000 square feet of STEM and research space to serve as a training center and incubator for current A.D. Henderson and FAU High students as they prepare to become researchers and innovators of tomorrow. The labs within the center will focus on bioimaging, neuroscience, ocean science and conservation, along with a health care pipeline for teaching, high-performance computing, and rapid prototyping methods. Each of the labs will be equipped with top-tier research instruments not typically found in K-12 settings.

The center will also host visiting scholars and researchers, as well as advance the partnership and research already underway at the Marcus Neuroscience Institute at Boca Regional Hospital

and Marcus Institute of Integrative Health at FAU’s Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine.

“We are grateful to The Marcus Foundation for its strategic investment in our students, educators and community,” said FAU President Stacy Volnick. “This impactful grant will facilitate the development of our students’ passions, expand our research and pioneer the critical discoveries of tomorrow.”

The Marcus Research and Innovation Center will introduce students to research as early as kindergarten. To date, students participating in the lab school’s research program have produced 78 student publications in peer-reviewed journals, six patents, and more than 1,500 citations worldwide. Student research collaborations now include work with Boca Raton Regional Hospital, the Max Planck Society, UF Scripps, Jupiter Medical Center, Wahoo Bay, Loggerhead Marinelife Center, and others. The state-of-the-art Marcus Research and Innovation Center will house and expand the current programs at the FAU Lab-

oratory Schools to grow and inspire exponentially more students in diverse research activities.

In addition, the Marcus Research and Innovation Center also will provide spaces to support the FAU Laboratory Schools’ Stiles-Nicholson STEM Teacher Academy (SNSTA) and The Cane Institute for Advanced Technologies (TCI). The SNSTA bridges high-caliber research settings with middle and high school instructors by developing experiential professional learning opportunities and instruction to inspire innovation and create lasting educational benefits for students nationwide. TCI is a premier, K-12 STEM continuum, and serves as the lab schools’ epicenter for STEM education and technology transfer.

“This generous grant will accelerate the transformational re-engineering of education already in progress at our lab schools,” said Joel Herbst, Ed.D., superintendent of Florida Atlantic Laboratory Schools. “The Marcus Research and Innovation Center will serve as a blue-

print for developing researchers and a globally competitive workforce, as well as train the school leaders and educators of tomorrow.”

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.

Founded in 1989, The Marcus Foundation focuses on fulfilling the philanthropic vision of Bernie Marcus, co-founder of The Home Depot. Located in Atlanta, Georgia, the Foundation’s grantmaking philosophy is derived from Bernie Marcus’ personal life experiences and awareness, and his success as an entrepreneur enables him to give back. The Foundation has five key areas of philanthropy – giving back in spheres that uphold Bernie’s beliefs and values – all with the goal to save and change lives through entrepreneurial philanthropy. The five focus areas are: healthcare and medical research; Jewish causes; the health and welfare of children, with an emphasis on civics education; free enterprise, including veteran issues and national security; and local community.

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Strategies for Building Your Small Business

(StatePoint) As an entrepreneur, you are the expert in the goods and services you offer customers. However, you may be less familiar with the financial aspects of running your business.

Incorporating a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional into your stable of advisors is a smart way to ensure that you’re growing your business sustainably. Here are some important financial planning strategies a

CFP® professional can assist you with:

1. Selecting a corporate structure: Each type of corporate structure is subject to its own tax code and financial liabilities. Determining which structure makes the most sense for your business is fundamental, but complex, given the wide range of factors involved. A CFP® professional can help you navigate this decision to your advantage. As your business scales, remain in conversation with your advisor to ensure that your corporate structure classification is not adversely impacting your cash flow.

2. Sorting your expenses: Your business feels personal, but it’s important to keep your business and personal expenses separate. A CFP® professional can help you establish a plan for managing personal and business finances in a way that allows you to reach your financial goals.

Side note for expense sorting: Be sure to deduct all overhead when pre-

paring your taxes. If you’re not deducting expenditures such as travel, auto expenses, home office utility bills, marketing materials and continuing education associated with your industry, you’re leaving money on the table.

3. Saving for retirement: While retirement may not be top of mind when launching your own business, it’s important to plan for it. One of the great benefits of being your own boss is having the freedom to maximize your retirement savings. A CFP® professional can help you make sense of options such as IRAs, 401(k)s with profit-sharing and solo 401(k)s, and help you select the one that will reduce your taxable income now and pave the way for a comfortable future.

On a related note, building a retirement plan into the benefits you offer your employees will make your company a more attractive place to work, helping you secure the best talent.

4. Maintaining personal financial health: While you’re growing your business, it can be easy to lose sight of your family’s financial health. A CFP® professional can help you protect your personal assets and continue moving toward your other financial goals at a time when your business seems like a top priority.

These are just a few of the areas in which a financial advisor can help your business be successful. They can also offer cash flow analysis, advise on your insurance needs, create a succession roadmap and more. For additional insights into small business financial planning, and to find a CFP® professional to work with, visit LetsMakeAPlan.org.

Launching a small business is both an adventure and a ton of work. Seek expert assistance with key financial planning strategies so that you can focus on the aspects of your business you are most passionate about.

5 Essentials for Homeowners Navigating Construction Contracts

(StatePoint) In today’s construction landscape, homeowners-to-be encounter numerous challenges, like budget overruns and delays. This is why selecting the right contractor and thoroughly scrutinizing the contract are crucial.

Glen Harris III of Alair Florida stresses transparent processes and client control in his dealings with clients. Here are five key elements to consider for a successful construction experience based on Harris’ insights, and the results of an Ipsos and Hover survey of 500 adults involved in home renovation projects.

A Detailed Planning Process: Harris advocates for a comprehensive planning phase that lays the groundwork for precise budgets, schedules and scopes. This aligns with findings from the survey, which reveal that 58% of homeowners experienced time delays averaging about 40 days. A thorough planning process mitigates ambiguity and sets realistic expectations from the outset, preventing costly delays down the line.

Transparency Throughout: With a traditional “cost plus” contract, transparency can be limited to monthly cost breakdowns after completion. Instead, prioritize a contract that promises transparency from conception. According to the survey, more than a third of homeowners reported paying more than the original quote, with the additional costs averaging $19,000. Contracts should ensure continuous insight into project costs, schedule updates and scope changes, empowering homeowners to make informed decisions and maintain control over their investment.

Client Involvement: Harris encourages “client control,” stressing active participation in the planning phase. The survey

shows nearly half of homeowners faced avoidable issues, causing strained relationships and setbacks. Contracts should foster teamwork, keep clients informed and engaged in decision-making, and reduce misunderstandings for a smoother construction process.

Technology Integration: Harris emphasizes the role of technology in managing projects, highlighting Microsoft Business Central for real-time access to project data. Using such platforms improves transparency and communication between contractors and homeowners. The survey highlights that 31% of homeowners find budgeting the most challenging aspect of the process, emphasizing the importance of streamlined systems for clarity and efficiency.

Trust and Reputation: Trust is paramount in the homeowner-contractor relationship, with reputation ranking as the most important characteristic for homeowners when selecting a contractor. The survey reveals that half of homeowners prioritize fair pricing, while 40% value contractor knowledge and 35% emphasize good communication skills. Contracts should reflect these priorities, in-

stilling confidence in homeowners and fostering strong partnerships built on trust and reliability.

Alair market partner and renowned home designer, Dave Jenkins of Wright Jenkins, emphasizes thorough planning and transparent communication throughout the construction process. He says, “Our clients love to be kept in the loop with our cutting-edge design and communication. A well-defined planning phase sets the stage for success and minimizes costly delays and misunderstandings. Transparency and communication are essential for building trust and alignment on project goals.”

For more information about new construction and home remodeling, visit www.Alairflorida.com.

By prioritizing these elements in a contractor’s contract, homeowners can navigate construction confidently, mitigating risks and ensuring a positive outcome. Reviewing and understanding these aspects of the contract is crucial for safeguarding investments and achieving project success.

South Florida Recording Artist Madeline Jaymes Launches Music Career and Drops New Songs

Boca Raton, FL – Jane Robinson has been championing children in Palm Beach County for more than 25 years, advocating for their mental health through play therapy. Robinson was recently honored with the Viola Brody Award for being an outstanding Florida Play Therapist.

Since 2005, the Florida Association for Play Therapy (FAPT) has honored an outstanding Florida Play Therapist at the FAPT Annual Conference with the Viola Brody Award– established in recognition and in memory of Viola Brody, Ph.D. who is considered a pioneer

in play therapy for developing a theoretical approach called Developmental Play Therapy.

“Jane is an outstanding play therapist and, like Dr. Brody, has been a pioneer for her work in bringing play therapy to children and families in Palm Beach County in the 1990s. She has trained thousands of members of the community in play therapy. Jane is a source of knowledge and inspiration, and bar none, she is most deserving of this award,” stated Renée Layman, CEO and president of Center for Child Counseling.

Robinson founded Palm Beach Gardens-based nonprofit Center for Child Counseling in 1999 as All ‘Bout Children. Although Robinson retired in May 2013, she continues to work as a consultant to Layman and volunteers her time training through the Center’s Institute for Clinical Training and providing support to the clinical supervisors. Robinson founded the organization with the vision of providing free mental health services to the youngest and most vulnerable children in the county.

As a licensed mental health counselor, registered play therapist supervisor, and certified infant mental health specialist through The Center for Prevention and Early Intervention Policy

at Florida State University, Robinson served as a strong advocate for young children in our community. In her leadership role in the area of early childhood mental health, she collaborated with the local community colleges and universities in training students, teachers, and graduate-level mental health counselor/social worker interns in play therapy for the young child (ages birth-5). She has presented to teachers, directors, and supervisors in child development centers and professional, local, and national conferences on mental health for the young child. Robinson created a manual, “Managing Feelings and Behavior in the Classroom and at Home,” which has been updated and is used by the Center as a guide and reference for teachers and parents of young children. She co-authored a chapter titled “Play Therapy Techniques with Very Young At-Risk Children in Child Care Settings” published in the book “Play Therapy with Very Young Children,” edited by Dr. Charles Shaefer.

“I am humbled to be a recipient of the Viola Brody Award. Early in my career as a play therapist, I found a book, “Dialogue of Touch: Developmental Play Therapy,” by Viola Brody. I read it, took workshops with Viola, and sat with her for a snack at the National Association for Play Therapy Conferences

around 1998-2000. Viola’s training gave me insight on how to work with the very youngest (infant to 3 years) and their caregivers in child care centers. Viola gave me the tools needed to model the importance of developmentally-appropriate touch, support, and attachment for the well-being of the very young child and those older who did not receive the care at a young age. I will be forever grateful,” said Robinson. Criteria to receive the Viola Brody Award include: being a member of FAPT/APT for at least five years; making an outstanding contribution to the field of Play Therapy in the State of Florida, nationally, or internationally; and not being a current FAPT Board Member or a member of the FAPT Award Committee.

Other recognition that Robinson has received includes: Volunteer of the Year for Play Therapy and Teacher Training by the YMCA of Boca Raton, FL, in 2000; the Mary Bondarin Award for Service to Children and Families by the Association of Education for the Young Child of the Palm Beaches in 2004; a “notable” (person who cares about their community) by the Palm Beach Post in 2005. She was also nominated for the 2011 “Purpose Prize,” a national award for people over 60 who combine their passion and experience for social good.

JaneRobinson|Photo:TraceyBenson Photography

The Florida Aquarium is Again Named One of the Best in the Country

Boca Raton, FL – The Florida Aquarium has once again been named one of the best Aquariums in the country. The recognition follows voting in USA Today’s 2024 Readers’ Choice Award. This is the sixth time, and fourth consecutive year the Aquarium has been nationally ranked in the top ten by USA Today, taking the number eight spot for the second year in a row.

A panel of travel experts researches aquariums across the country to select 20 of the best, and the top ten winners are determined by the public’s vote. This esteemed accolade highlights the Aquarium’s dedication to exceptional exhibits, visitor experiences, and conservation ef-

forts, including animal rescue efforts and advocating for the health of our oceans.

“The Florida Aquarium is a true Tampa gem and a leader in our region’s cultural and conservation efforts,” said City of Tampa Mayor Jane Castor. “The Aquarium’s commitment to excellence and innovation ensures that its best chapters are still ahead, and this recognition is a testament to the exciting future that lies ahead for both the Aquarium and our city.”

The Florida Aquarium is an internationally recognized cultural icon that entertains and educates guests, delivers groundbreaking research, and helps drive our local economy. Last year, the Aquarium achieved an historic milestone—welcoming more than 1 million visitors for the first time in its 28-year history, generating an annual economic benefit of $275 million.

“Our city and region are second to none and deserve a world-class Aquarium that our community and state can be proud of. To receive this prestigious recognition based on our community’s overwhelming support is both humbling and an honor,” said Roger Germann, President & CEO of The Florida Aquarium. “Every day we strive to offer the best experiences for all guests, provide the best care for our animals, educate schoolchildren, save wildlife, and give back to our community. On behalf of The Florida Aquarium, I would like

to thank everyone in the Tampa Bay area and across the country for recognizing their favorite Aquarium.”

Santiago C. Corrada, President and CEO of Visit Tampa Bay, added, “The Florida Aquarium’s consistent ranking among the best in the nation is a reflection of the incredible experiences it offers. It’s a vital part of what makes Tampa Bay a premier destination for travelers from around the world. We are immensely proud of the Aquarium’s achievements and its role in showcasing marine wildlife and the natural beauty of our region.”

Highlights of The Florida Aquarium

Diverse Exhibits: Home to more than 600 species and nearly 20,000 animals, from a range of fresh and saltwater environments including sharks, sea turtles, river otters, alligators, and axolotls.

New Experiences This Month:

Feathers in Flight: Starting May 24, The Florida Aquarium will host a free-flying bird show on the Rooftop Terrace featuring species such as the Andean Condor, White Tailed Sea Eagle, Spectacled Owl, and Black Vulture.

Stingray Feeding Experience: Starting May 28, this immersive encounter provides guests with a behind-the-scenes opportunity to see what it is like to be a biologist and veterinarian, handfeeding and caring for cownose stingrays.

Expansion and Future Developments: The Aquarium is undergoing a $45 million expansion, the largest in its history, which includes the recently opened MORPH’D exhibit, featuring amazing animals that have adapted over time to survive. Upcoming phases will introduce a new outdoor exhibit with California sea lions and an African penguin habitat, enhancing the Aquarium’s conservation mission and visitor experience.

Community Engagement: Outreach programs include underwater robotics camps for girls, career development for fifth graders, and virtual field trips for pediatric cancer patients.

The Florida Aquarium actively participates in and promotes stewardship of the natural environment as part of our mission of conservation. As a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, The Florida Aquarium provides an opportunity to see thousands of aquatic and terrestrial animals, explore complex ecosystems, look for wild dolphins in Tampa Bay and more! More than a must-see attraction, The Florida Aquarium is focused on saving marine wildlife through conservation research and rescue efforts that help restore Florida’s sea turtle and coral populations. To learn more, follow us on social media at @floridaaquarium and visit flaquarium.org.

CubanCoralNursery

Boulder Brain Coral

Aquarium

100Yardsof Hope

Phone Scam Targeting Owners of Lost Pets

Boca Raton, FL – The Palm Beach

County Department of Public Safety’s Division of Animal Care and Control (ACC) wants to let the community know that scammers have recently targeted owners of lost pets. Concerned community members who post their contact information on one of several lost pet websites (links below) are receiving calls from someone identifying themselves as an employee of ACC.

PetCo Love Lost PawBoost

Loxahatchee Lost and Found (FB Page)

NextDoor

The callers are reporting that the lost animals are injured and that the owners need to immediately send money to address the urgent medical needs of their pets to save their lives.

ACC will NEVER ask for money over the phone and will continue to treat injured animals while trying to track down their owners. If you receive a suspicious call, please report it to law enforcement and the agency where your lost pet is listed. Please DO NOT transfer money to anyone who calls regarding your lost pet. All pets lost or found and held at ACC are posted on our website: pbcgov. com/SNAP

PBC Animal Care & Control is located at 7100 Belvedere Road in West Palm Beach, just west of the Florida Turnpike. For more information, please call (561) 233-1200 or visit the website, pbcgov. com/animal

Palm Beach County Classroom Wins Prestigious STEM Classroom Makeover Grant

North Palm Beach, FL – The Conservatory School, located in North Palm Beach, Fla. is celebrating a remarkable achievement as it becomes one of the five schools across Florida selected to receive a Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) STEM Classroom Makeover Grant. This $50,000 grant will empower The Conservatory School to transform its classroom into an innovative learning space, igniting a passion for science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) among its students.

“We are ecstatic to be among the select group of schools chosen to receive FPL’s STEM Classroom Makeover Grant,” said, Derek Schuemann, Principal at The Conservatory School. “This grant will further empower our educators to create an immersive learning environment that inspires our students to dream big and pursue careers in STEM. We are deeply grateful to FPL for recognizing our commitment to excellence in education and providing us with additional resources to en-

hance our classrooms.”

FPL’s STEM Classroom Makeover Grant will enable The Conservatory School and STEM teachers Todd LaVogue and Kristin Delatorre to revolutionize its classroom, turning it into a vibrant hub of innovation, creativity and discovery for students. The school plans to purchase new VR headsets, iPads, a Glowforge printer and student content materials to help increase their exposure towards STEM technology.

Now in its third year, the grant program selects five schools in Florida each year from a competitive pool of applicants. The five schools selected each displayed exceptional dedication and creativity in their approaches to STEM education:

Endeavour Elementary School, Cocoa, Florida

The Conservatory School, North Palm Beach, Florida Country Club Middle School, Miami Gardens, Florida

Coconut Palm K-8 Academy, Homestead, Florida

Merriam Cherry Street Elementary, Panama City, Florida

Each school will have one year to redesign and revitalize their classrooms, infusing them with cutting-edge technological resources, modern equipment and hands-on learning materials. From virtual reality and 3D printers to robotics kits and interactive displays, these schools will purchase the supplies they need to foster a dynamic learning environment that encourages critical thinking, collaboration and problem-solving skills.

“We are thrilled for The Conservatory School to receive our STEM Classroom Makeover Grant. At FPL, we believe in the power of education and the endless possibilities that STEM learning can unlock for students. We are incredibly excited to witness the creativity and growth that will be nurtured within the winning school’s walls,” said Pam Rauch, FPL Vice President of External Affairs and Economic Development. “We strongly believe that STEM education is the cornerstone of a prosperous future and these grants will serve as a catalyst for fostering innovation, curiosity and lifelong learning in our communities.”

FPL’s STEM Classroom Makeover Grant is part of a four-year commitment from its charitable arm, the NextEra Energy Foundation, to advance STEM curriculum, increase the exposure of students to STEM education and jumpstart students’ interest in STEM careers.

Applications for the next cohort of schools will open Fall of 2024! For more information on this grant as well as FPL’s other educational programs, visit www.FPL.com/Education.

As America’s largest electric utility, Florida Power & Light Company

serves more customers and sells more power than any other utility, providing clean, affordable, reliable electricity to approximately 5.9 million accounts, or more than 12 million people. FPL operates one of the most fuel efficient and cleanest power generation fleets in the U.S. and in 2022 won the ReliabilityOne® National Reliability Award for the seventh time in the last eight years. The company was also recognized by Escalent in 2022 as one of the most trusted U.S. electric utilities for the ninth consecutive year. FPL is a subsidiary of Juno Beach, Florida-based NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE: NEE), a clean energy company widely recognized for its efforts in sustainability, corporate responsibility, ethics and compliance, and diversity. NextEra Energy is ranked No. 1 in the electric and gas utilities industry in Fortune’s 2023 list of “World’s Most Admired Companies” and recognized on Fortune’s 2021 list of companies that “Change the World.” NextEra Energy is also the parent company of NextEra Energy Resources, LLC, which, together with its affiliated entities, is the world’s largest generator of renewable energy from the wind and sun and a world leader in battery storage. For more information about NextEra Energy companies, visit these websites: www.NextEraEnergy.com, www.FPL.com, www.NextEraEnergyResources.com.

Boca West Country Club Is Named a Top 10 Workplace in South Florida

Boca Raton, FL – Boca West Country Club has been awarded a Top Workplaces USA honor by the Sun-Sentinel, ranked in the South Florida Top 10. The 2024 award marks the fifth time in a row that Boca West Country Club has been named a winner.

The list is based solely on employee feedback gathered through a third-party survey administered by employee engagement technology partner Energage, LLC. The anonymous sur-

vey uniquely measures 15 drivers of engaged cultures that are critical to the success of any organization: including alignment, execution, and connection, just to name a few.

The survey was sent to 39,694 employees in South Florida to fi nd the best places to work. More than 22,400 employees responded to the survey. For 2024, 6,649 organizations were invited to survey their employees, and 174 were surveyed.

“Boca West Country Club has a distinct culture of teamwork and comradery where our team members are considered to be family,” said Matthew Linderman, CCM, COO and President of Boca West Country Club. “This culture resonates from management to membership, and it clearly resonates with our employees. We are so honored to receive this workplace recognition for the fifth time in a row!”

Located in the heart of Boca Raton, Florida, in Palm Beach County, Boca West Country Club is a private, resident-only, luxury country club community. With four championship golf courses, an award-winning USTA

tennis facility, a luxurious spa, six renowned restaurants, and an active social community – all surrounded by 1,400 acres of lush, tropical landscaping – Boca West offers an incomparable lifestyle and impeccable service. Coming soon is the completion of a $45 million Club Expansion Program that includes a seismic 96,000 square foot Aquatics Center with fi ve pools and a new restaurant bar, as well as a full-scale renovation of the two-story Sports Center Complex that will include for spin, aerobics, Pilates, and core training. A serene spa relaxation courtyard will be added with an outdoor wet area as well as an outdoor rooftop bar and terrace overlooking the magnificent Palmer Golf Course.

Boca West is honored to be a Platinum ClubsÒ of the World since 2017 currently ranked 4th out of 100 by Club Leaders Forum, has received a 5-Star Private Club ranking by Platinum Clubs of America since 1997; has been recognized since 2013 as an Elite Distinguished World Club by BoardRoom magazine; is a 2013 USTA Outstanding Facility Award winner; and was honored with the 2019, 2020, 2021 2022 and 2023 AGM Platinum Award

by the Association of Golf Merchandisers.

For more information, visit bocawestcc.org. To inquire about club membership, call (561) 488-6934.

Energage offers a fully unified SaaS platform, plus support and professional services, to help organizations recruit and retain the right talent. As a B-Corporation founding member, Energage has committed itself to the purpose of making the world a better place to work together. Based on 14 years of culture research, the engine behind 51 Top Workplaces programs across the country, and data gathered from over 20 million employees at 60,000 organizations, Energage has isolated the 15 drivers of engaged cultures that are critical to the success of any business, and developed the tools and expertise to help organizations measure, shape and showcase their unique culture to achieve a sustainable competitive advantage. For more information, please visit energage.com. Follow us on Twitter @teamenergage and Facebook and LinkedIn @energage.

April 20 & 21, 2024

This repertory concert will feature an interesting blend of classical and contemporary pieces. This concert will offer something for everyone to enjoy!

La Sylphide

July 27 & 28, 2024

In La Sylphide, one of the oldest ballets still commonly performed, an otherworldly creature, the Sylph, bewitches the Scotsman James causing him to abandon his fiancée Effie and all that he once held dear. This performance will feature New York City Ballet’s Emma Von Enck & Anthony Huxley.

Matthew Linderman Vegso Family

More than 90,000 Palm Beach County Students Get Active with the American Heart Association

West Palm Beach, FL – 90,747 students in Palm Beach County are ending the school year with special training to improve their heart health, get active and boost their mental health, thanks to their participation in the American Heart Association’s school-based programs: Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge. More than 25,000 schools participated in the programs this year, including 116 schools in Palm Beach County.

The American Heart Association’s Kids Heart Challenge™ is designed for elementary school students, and American Heart Challenge is for middle school and high school students. The programs offer a variety of physical activities to get students’ hearts pumping including dance, basketball and jumping rope, paired with training to learn the life-saving skill of Hands-Only CPR™. These programs have more than 40 years of proven success, rooted in scientific research showing that kids who are regularly active feel better, improve their mental health, build self-esteem and decrease and prevent conditions such as anxiety and depression[1].

“Science has shown us that our early years play a critical role in the development of healthy habits,” says Molly Hietapelto, American Heart Association Palm Beach County youth market director. “These programs help students get active, learn about heart health and get trained in CPR to give kids the skills they need to lead long and healthy lives.”

This year, 116 Palm Beach County schools participated in Kids Heart Chal-

lenge or American Heart Challenge –find participating schools here.

In addition to the health benefits experienced by participants, the funds raised by the programs support the American Heart Association’s scientific research and outreach, paving the way for breakthroughs and advancements to improve health outcomes nationwide.

“What we love about these programs is that they teach important skills, but they also encourage students to get active and have fun,” says Principal Nina Montez of Lighthouse Elementary School in Jupiter. Lighthouse Elementary was the No. 1 fundraising public school in Palm Beach County this year.“Pairing that excitement with raising funds for children who have heart conditions allows our students to think about wellness for others, along with their own health.”

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans[2] only 20% of kids get enough activity to meet physical activity recommendations. In addition to improved physical health, the benefits of physical activity for children include better grades, school attendance and classroom behavior. Schools interested in participating in the Kids Heart Challenge or American Heart Challenge can register online at www. heart.org/getstarted.

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 a century. During 2024 –our Centennial year – we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Instagram and X.

For Centennial, Boca Raton Invites Residents to Create an “Ode to Boca” – and Celebrate the City in Poetic Verse

Residents Can Now Submit their Ode to Boca; 100 Selected Poems Will be Turned into Public Art and Displayed Across the City

Boca Raton, FL – In preparation for the city’s centennial celebrations in 2025, the City of Boca Raton is partnering with the poetry organization O, Miami, on a year-long campaign to capture residents’ love for their city through the creation of an “Ode to Boca,” or a short poem based on their zip code.

An original form of poetry invented by O, Miami, in partnership with WLRN, these short poems known as Zip Odes are designed to transform a zip code into an occasion for placebased, lyrical celebration. Within this poetic form, residents create a five-line ode to where they live, written in the form of their zip code. The inventive format has made poetry more accessible – so much so that South Floridians have submitted 17,000+ of them since the initiative launched in 2015, including these two about Boca Raton:

3 In my town

3 where I grow,

4 among parks and schools.

8 From the ocean’s tides to the highway’s rides,

6 I awake each day with pride.

Nick Kalpakjian

3 Over the fence

3 avocados are escaping

4 from the neighbor’s yard.

3 I pick them

2 and run.

Nancy Sail

For next year’s centennial, the City

of Boca Raton will turn 100 Odes to Boca into public art and showcase them in unexpected places throughout the city. Boca residents can submit theirs now online at odetoboca.com. In addition, throughout the year, O, Miami and the City of Boca Raton will collect the poems at multigenerational events and school workshops.

“We want to hear from you – our residents – as part of this Centennial, so that the people who live here are writing the poetic narrative of Boca Raton at 100 years,” said Scott Singer, Boca Raton Mayor.

Singer submitted his own poem about his beloved city:

3 Boca Raton is 3 the greatest city

4 because of its people,

9 but we can reach our fullest potential, united together

6 for the next century and beyond

While native to South Florida, Zip Odes has traveled all around the Unit-

ed States, with similar poetry contests in Orlando, Toledo, and Boston.

O, Miami’s Founder P. Scott Cunningham is a Boca Raton native who embraced the opportunity to create this partnership to redefine the city through poetry.

“As someone born and raised in Boca Raton, I am thrilled that O, Miami and the city are working together to amplify resident voices through poetry,” Cunningham said. “Arts and culture are a powerful tool in forging community, and I can’t wait to read all of the brilliant poems that the people of Boca are going to craft.”

The Ode to Boca project is part of O, Miami’s Civic Publishing efforts, where residents shape the narratives of their own city. O, Miami collects poems through live events, open calls, workshops, and school curricula, then broadcasts these poems to the communities they came from through an innovative mix of real-world and digital projects, using every available city sur-

face, from fake parking tickets to warehouse rooftops.

Boca Raton, the second largest city in the Palm Beaches, blends history with innovation. A hub for business, Boca Raton’s thriving corporate community traces its roots to the development of the personal computer at IBM’s campus, now hosting over 30 corporate headquarters. This vibrant community also boasts a dynamic cultural scene, featuring live concerts, international art exhibits, outdoor festivals, and worldclass museums. With five miles of stunning Atlantic coastline and 49 parks, Boca Raton promotes an active lifestyle and environmental stewardship, evidenced by its pioneering tree protection ordinance. The city’s amenities, including the Boca Raton Airport with its customs facility, cater to global travelers and residents alike, offering proximity to business centers, entertainment, and luxury shopping. Boasting three nationally ranked universities and top-rated K-12 schools, Boca Raton fosters education, research, and innovation, nurturing a homegrown, educated workforce. Recognized for its safety and low property tax rates, Boca Raton offers a unique quality of life that must be experienced firsthand. For more information, visit myboca.us

O, Miami builds community around the power of poetry. Throughout the year, we teach poetry to kids in schools, host a month-long poetry festival and publish residents’ works in books and in unexpected places like billboards, fences and rooftops. Our work is an act of love, inviting residents to share their stories and write a new narrative together. For more information, visit omiami.org | @omiamifestival.

The Boca Raton Tribune

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