West Palm Beach Mayor Jeri Muoio

PASS IT ON!

FORWARD THIS EMAIL TO ANYONE INTERESTED IN THE LATEST WPB NEWS.

TO SUBSCRIBE TO THE CITY'S OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER,

VISIT

wpb.org/INSIDER

December 16, 2017

Preliminary Data for Flagler Shore Project Released
City to hold Community Think Tank on Dec. 16 for Additional Public Feedback

This past October, the City of West Palm Beach and the West Palm Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) in partnership with the West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority (DDA) embarked on a tactical urbanism pilot project along Flagler Drive. The Flagler Shore: From Pavement to People project temporarily reduced Flagler Drive between Lakeview Ave. and Banyan Blvd. to two lanes in order to reclaim 63,000 sq. ft. of additional public space for pedestrians, bicyclists, merchants and additional programming on the West Palm Beach waterfront. The City and agencies used this short-term, low-cost, and scalable intervention to catalyze long-term change along the West Palm Beach waterfront, in order to make the waterfront a more active and vibrant public space for both residents and visitors.

Given the findings of recent studies by the Gehl Institute, the Shore to Core design contest with the Van Alen Institute, and the walkability study by Jeff Speck, along with traffic studies that indicate use of Flagler Drive is well under the road’s traffic threshold, the project was the first step toward implementing some of the expert recommendations. For the duration of the project (October 7, 2017 – March 1, 2018), data is being collected in six key areas to understand how the space is being used and effects of the space being repurposed including activation participation, safety, automobile counts, bicycle counts, pedestrian counts and people surveys.

A key data finding, contrary to initial project concerns, has shown no traffic impact or safety issues. The automobile counts along Flagler Drive have decreased since the project started and compared to average daily rates five years ago (6,404 in October 2017 compared to 8,438 in September 2017 and 10,560 in 2012). Additionally, no crashes have been reported during the project to date.

In addition to the ongoing data collection at the project site and public feedback on the City’s website, the City will hold a Community Think Tank on Dec. 16 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM along Flagler Shore (in the public space outside of E.R. Bradley’s Saloon at the intersection of Clematis Street and Flagler Drive). This is an opportunity for members of the public to provide ideas for what they would like to see that would attract people to the waterfront. There will be a series of interactive exchange booths where participants can collaborate with the hosts and discuss how to make the waterfront more vibrant. The preliminary data will also be shared and discussed with community members at the meeting.

“Since we first launched this project, Flagler Shore has had people talking about the future of their waterfront and public spaces where they want to gather, and that is exactly what we want,” said West Palm Beach Mayor Jeri Muoio. “We are trying to improve the quality of life in West Palm Beach and are listening to the needs and wishes of our residents and downtown businesses. This pilot project is intended to give space back to the public, and we believe it can be successful thanks to the community’s input.”

The Flagler Shore project allows the City to examine the viability of expert recommendations using low-cost resources to experiment with and gather input on potential street design changes, without spending millions of dollars. The data and community feedback gathered will ultimately help determine any permanent redesign of the waterfront in the future. The cost of the temporary pilot project is estimated at $221,137, a fraction of the funds for a complete design renovation project. Just over half of the total costs ($114,014) were allocated for the Flagler Drive lane reduction and Maintenance of Traffic (MOT) plan.

“Many cities in the U.S. and around the world are using these types of flexible and short-term projects to advance long-term goals related to street safety, public space, and more,” said Chris Roog, West Palm Beach Director of Economic Development. “We are confident that this project will support the expert recommendations while gathering important information and community feedback.”

Key Features about the Flagler Shore: From Pavement to People Project:

• Flagler Shore is .6 miles along Flagler Drive stretching from Lakeview Ave. to Banyan Blvd.
• Temporary lane reductions and expansion of waterfront public space for five months, from Oct. 7, 2017 through Mar. 1, 2018.
• This is the first step in implementing/analyzing concepts and expert recommendations from recent City studies.
• Closing two east lanes of Flagler Drive from Lakeview Ave. to Banyan Blvd. to reclaim and repurpose public space along the waterfront
• Making the two west lanes of Flagler Drive from Lake Ave. to Banyan Blvd. into two-way conditions with restriped double-yellow lines
• Intersections along Flagler Drive will include large decorative potted planters with safety measures to redirect traffic and directional signs.
• Closed eastern lanes of Flagler Drive will reclaim 63,000 sq. ft. of public space along the waterfront.
• Reclaimed public space will be repurposed to allow for more pedestrians, bicyclists, merchants, and additional programming.
• New features to be included along the expanded waterfront include additional seating, public art, vendors, new events, wellness activities and more.
• City will assess new design by collecting data and public feedback to make determinations about the future of the West Palm Beach waterfront.

To find out more about the city’s Flagler Shore project, to find the latest updates and activities, or to submit questions/comments, please call (561) 822-2222 or visit www.wpb.org/flaglershore. The City encourages public feedback on the new design and new activities via email at flaglershore@wpb.org.

CITY BREAKS GROUND ON WPBFR STATION #8

New Fire Station to Serve West Palm Beach's Western Neighborhoods

This week, Mayor Jeri Muoio, City Commissioners, and West Palm Beach Fire Rescue (WPBFR) Chief Diana J. Matty joined representatives from D. Stephenson Construction to break ground on WPBFR Station #8.

The $5.46 million station now under construction at 10965 Northlake Boulevard will serve the City’s western communities including the Ibis and Ironhorse neighborhoods. It is expected to open in Fall of 2018.

The 10,000 square-foot station will house three bays and living and working quarters for two full crews. It will also house an exercise room, workshop and decontamination room. The station has been designed to achieve LEED certification and to withstand a Category 4 storm event. 

Fire Station #8 Rendering

D. Stephenson Construction, Inc. has been selected as Construction Manager by the City of West Palm Beach for the fire station. The architect is Stephen L. Boruff Architects of West Palm Beach.

The new structure will feature a colored, concrete block exterior design. It will replace an existing temporary modular fire station building that has been in operation for nine years. The project will include new traffic signals and median landscaping on Northlake Boulevard.

WPB-TV UPDATES

Click on the image to view the video!

VIDEO: Mayor Muoio, Chief Mooney Announce 'Operation Pocket Change'

VIDEO: City Breaks Ground on Fire Station #8

VIDEO: 5 Things to Know about Flagler Shore

City Co-hosts Business Opportunity Meeting

Procurement Director Frank Hayden Welcomes Guests at Business Opportunity Meeting

The Procurement Department of the City of West Palm Beach co-hosted a business opportunity meeting with the Florida State Minority Supplier Development Council (FSMSDC) on Friday, December 8, 2017. 

Beatrice Louissaint, President & CEO of the FSMSDC, Frank Hayden, Procurement Director of the City of West Palm Beach and Mary Mayhew, Communication Lead & Supplier Diversity Manager, Florida Power & Light (FPL) Company welcomed guests and encouraged networking among attendees. 

The agenda included “Stories of Success” presentations by Christine Pincus, Johnson Controls and Courtney McKenzie Newell, Crowned Marketing & Communications.  Tim Thompson of the FSMSDC was introduced as the newest addition to the FSMSDC and Patricia Armstrong presented on How to do Business with the City of West Palm Beach. Firms like FPL, Office Depot, Johnson Controls and more were in attendance. 

To learn more about the City's Department of Procurement events, visit: http://wpb.org/Departments/Procurement/Overview.

300 Block of Datura Tree Canopy Improvements

The 300 Block of Datura Street is about to experience two major redevelopment projects. 302 and 313 Datura Street will be improved adding additional business to downtown and a contributing historic structure. In order to make these improvements to our City, the existing trees on Datura Street that are in front of these building will be removed and replaced with 20’ tall oak trees. In addition, the areas that are not in front of 302, 313, and 324 Datura will be part of the City’s tree canopy plan that will ensure that more oak trees will be added to the 300 Block of Datura.

Regional Labor Market to be Surveyed

The City of West Palm Beach Department of Economic Development supports the Palm Beach County Business Development Board in its efforts to conduct a workforce analysis. Your help is needed! Input from stakeholders and citizens in West Palm Beach and other communities will be a key component of the analysis.

A series of surveys is available online to gather input from a broad cross-section of the community. These stakeholder surveys are designed to collect information from residents, employers, students, and high school counselors. The survey results will be used to validate information gathered through quantitative research and in conversations with additional stakeholder groups, to help understand and tell the Palm Beach County workforce story in efforts to create jobs and attract new investment.

For more information or to participate in the surveys, please visit: http://www.pbcskills.org/.

FDOT Traffic Alert

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has announced lane closures that could impact City of West Palm Beach residents and visitors. The westbound lane of Southern Boulevard Bridge will be closed from 9:30 p.m. to 6 a.m. nightly beginning Sunday, Dec. 17, to Thursday, Dec. 21. Flaggers will maintain two-way traffic in the eastbound lane – one direction at a time – to allow exploratory drilling for the replacement bridge foundations. For more information, visit: http://www.fdot.gov/

SAVE THE DATE!!!

Join us for Mayor Muoio's

2018 State of the City Address

Mayor Jeri Muoio will lay out the blueprint for her final year in office during the 2018 State of the City address. The Mayor will deliver remarks during the January breakfast of the Chamber of Commerce of the Palm Beaches, presented by Good Samaritan Medical Center. Learn how the Mayor's long-term plan for economic prosperity and increased quality of life, that has driven so many key decisions over her tenure, will culminate in the new year.

Free parking will be sponsored by Hedrick Brothers Construction. Courtesy of host sponsor GL Homes, arrive early and network with elected officials and other community leaders. Enjoy coffee sponsored by Aqua Marketing & Communications and a gift sponsored by Lesser, Lesser, Landy & Smith, PLLC.

When:

Wednesday, January 24, 2018

• 7:00 a.m. Early Bird Coffee, Check-In and Networking
• 7:30 a.m. Program begins
• 9:15 a.m. Program concludes

Where:

Palm Beach County Convention Center; 650 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach

Discount seats are available until 5pm, Wednesday, January 17, 2018

Members

• $45 before the deadline
• $50 after the deadline

Non-members

• $55 before the deadline
• $60 after the deadline

Corporate Table Sponsor (Table of 10)

• $550 for Members
• $750 for Non-Members

Contact Information: Marissa Kosiec, (561) 833-3711, x231. Register now: https://palmbeaches.chambermaster.com/eventregistration/register/19091.

MANDEL PUBLIC LIBRARY EVENTS

for January 2017

Unless otherwise noted, all events are FREE and hosted at the Mandel Public Library of West Palm Beach at 411 Clematis Street.

Slime Lab

Tuesday, January 2

1:30 PM – 3:30 PM

KidSpace - 3rd Floor

Join the slime craze hitting home kitchens across the nation – without the mess.  Kids can be a slime scientist and learn how to make and take home their very own slime.  For children, ages 4-12.

Pop-Up Art Party

Thursday, January 4

1:30 PM – 3:30 PM

KidSpace - 3rd Floor

Kids can join Artist and Children’s Librarian Jeanne Taylor to explore vibrant colors and repeated motifs, and create their own modern masterpiece.  Dress to get messy.  For more information, visit wpbcitylibrary.org or call 561-868-7703.

Con Brio String Quartet

Sunday, January 7

2:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Auditorium

Enjoy a free classical music concert with the award-winning Con Brio String Quartet.  The group is comprised of graduates from Lynn University Conservatory of Music.  The talented musical artists have won multiple prizes and have performed all over the world.  For more information, visit wpbcitylibrary.org or call 561-868-7701.

Career Online High School Orientation

Tuesday, January 30

1:00 PM – 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Square One, 2nd Floor

Are you looking to earn a standard high school diploma but don’t know where to begin? Learn about the Career Online High School program at our Square One center and the scholarships available for those who would like to finish high school in an online, self-paced environment. For more information, visit wpbcitylibrary.org or call 561-868-7707.

ADULT PROGRAMS:

Hula Hoop Fitness Class

Sundays (no class on January 28)

2:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Pre-Function Lobby

Join Connie Mullen (ACE and AFAA Group Fitness Instructor, Pound Pro, FXP Hoop Fitness and Hoopyasa Trainer) and learn how to be fit by using a weighted hula hoop.  Sponsored by a grant from the Quantum Foundation obtained by the WPB Library Foundation.  For more information, visit wpbcitylibrary.org or call 561-868-7701.

Salsa and Bachata Dance Classes

Wednesdays (no class January 24)

7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

PreFunction Lobby

Bring your dance shoes and learn how to bachata and salsa with instructor Eliseo.  Bachata, a genre of music from the Dominican Republic, is sweeping the Latin American world, while the Cuban-originated Salsa remains e ever-popular.  Sponsored by a grant from the Quantum Foundation obtained by the WPB Library Foundation.  For more information, visit wpbcitylibrary.org or call 561-868-7701.

22 Minute Hard Corps™ Workout

Wednesdays

12:00 PM – 12:30 PM and 12:30 PM – 1:00 PM

Auditorium

Join Marie-Elena Aruta, NASM Certified Personal Trainer, for 22 minutes for 8 weeks (Jan. 3 to Feb. 28) and you will learn how to get great results in a short period of time.  The challenging but simple-to-follow CORPS workout program was created by legendary trainer Tony Horton and inspired by military training techniques.  Reservation Required.  Sponsored by a grant from the Quantum Foundation obtained by the WPB Library Foundation.  Call 561-868-7701 or visit wpbcitylibrary.org to register or for more information.   

Cardio Drumming Class

Saturdays (no class January 27)

1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Auditorium

Make music and exercise at the same time!  This fun and energetic class is for all levels, and you don’t have to know how to play the drums.  Sponsored by a grant from the Quantum Foundation obtained by the WPB Library Foundation.  For more information, visit wpbcitylibrary.org or call 561-868-7701.

P90X Workout   

Saturdays (no class January 27)

3:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Auditorium

Join Diana Muños, a certified P90X Trainer, to get in shape after the holiday season.  Attendees will be able to check out a full set of P90X DVDs with a valid library card.  Sponsored by a grant from the Quantum Foundation obtained by the WPB Library Foundation.  Registration required.   Call 561-868-7701 or visit wpbcitylibrary.org to register or for more information.   

Square One Open Mic & Poetry Event

Tuesday, January 2

3:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Calling all young adult (16 – 29 years old) poets and spoken word artists. Enjoy and explore the art of creative expression. Don’t want to step up to the mic?  Feel free to share original thoughts, stories or other works. Light refreshments will be provided. Registration required for performers. Call 561-868-7707 or visit wpbcitylibrary.org for more information.   

The Evolution of Downtown WPB

Wednesday January 3  

6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Auditorium

Join local architect Rick Gonzalez, AIA, President of REG Architects, as he presents a lecture that discusses the fascinating historical and architectural evolution of downtown West Palm Beach from its origins to the present.  Call 561-868-7701 or visit wpbcitylibrary.org for more information.   

Painting a Vivid Coastal Scene Using Acrylics

Thursday, January 4

9:45 AM – 12:00 PM

Hibiscus Room

Join artist Jim Rigg, accomplished artists and BFA graduate of Wichita State University , and learn the intricacies of creating beach images in acrylic.  All supplies provided.  Open to all skill levels.  Registration required and begins on Wednesday, January 3 at 10:00 AM.  Call 561-868-7701 or visit wpbcitylibrary.org to register or for more information.  Sponsored by a grant from the West Palm Beach Arts & Entertainment District obtained by the WPB Library Foundation.

Great Art - Once Private, Now Public

Friday, January 5

2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Auditorium

Join Joan Lipton, Ph.D., an independent lecturer and art historian, as she explores the fascinating way great art changes hands across time from private homes and collections to public museums.  For more information, visit wpbcitylibrary.org or call 561-868-7701.  Sponsored by a grant from the West Palm Beach Arts & Entertainment District obtained by the WPB Library Foundation.

Friday Night Jazz featuring Bill Mays

Friday, January 5

5:30 PM – 7:30 PM

Auditorium

Tickets: Friends Members $5, Non-members $10

Presented by the Friends of the Mandel Public Library, this popular music series features live jazz performances the first Friday of each month (Dec-Apr).  This month enjoy a performance by famed jazz pianist Bill Mays playing favorites like Berlin, Kern, Gershwin, and Porter.  Wine and sparkling water will be available for a small fee and light snacks are complimentary. Seating is first come, first served.  For more information, visit www.friendswpblibrary.org or call (561) 868-7709.

Con Brio String Quartet

Sunday, January 7

2:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Auditorium

Enjoy a free classical music concert with the award-winning Con Brio String Quartet.  The group is comprised of graduates from Lynn University Conservatory of Music.  The talented musical artists have won multiple prizes and have performed all over the world.  For more information, visit wpbcitylibrary.org or call 561-868-7701.

PBAU Leadership Academy I

Wednesdays, January 10, 17, 31 and February 7

12:05 PM – 12:50 PM

Hibiscus Room

Learn how to be a better leader with PBAU Assistant Professor of Leadership Craig Domeck. Completing all of the first four classes in the series leads to a “Leadership Certificate of Attendance.”  This Leadership Lunch and Learn Series is sponsored by the MacArthur School of Leadership at Palm Beach Atlantic University.  For more information, visit wpbcitylibrary.org or call 561-868-7701.

African American Social History in Art

Wednesday, January 10

2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Auditorium

Join Joan Lipton, Ph.D., an independent lecturer and art historian, and learn about social complexities in the art community, specifically how African Americans were treated in painting and sculpture by other American artists.  For more information, visit wpbcitylibrary.org or call 561-868-7701.  Sponsored by a grant from the West Palm Beach Arts & Entertainment District obtained by the WPB Library Foundation.

Photo Tour of Downtown West Palm Beach

Wednesday, January 10

6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Auditorium

Join local architect Rick Gonzalez, AIA, President of REG Architects, for a photographic tour of beautiful historic places and landmarks in downtown West Palm Beach.  For more information, visit wpbcitylibrary.org or call 561-868-7701.

Unlocking the Mysteries of Cézanne Art

Wednesday, January 10

6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Clematis Room

Paul Cézanne is the father of modernism but his art was not understood during his lifetime.  Join art historian, author and lecturer, Fred Dixon, as he unlocks the mysteries around Cézanne’s art and the importance and impact of his art.  For more information, visit wpbcitylibrary.org or call 561-868-7701.  Sponsored by a grant from the West Palm Beach Arts & Entertainment District obtained by the WPB Library Foundation.

The Global Economic Scene 2018

Wednesday, January 10

6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Hibiscus Room

Join Mark Scheinbaum, Managing Director at Shearson Financial Services and adjunct professor of International Relations at Florida International University, to explore the upcoming global economic scene for 2018.  For more information, visit wpbcitylibrary.org or call 561-868-7701.

Comic Book & Pop Culture Club

Wednesday, January 10

7:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Iris Room

Join us in an open, friendly environment where comic book and pop culture fans can gather to discuss all aspects of the industry including comics, movies, TV shows, toys, games, and more.  For more information, visit wpbcitylibrary.org or call 561-868-7701.

Learn to Make Clay Jewelry

Thursday, January 11

9:45 AM – 12:00 PM

Hibiscus Room

Local artist Amanda Linton will show you how to make exquisite jewelry using versatile clay that is wearable and beautiful.  All supplies provided.  Open to all skill levels.  Registration required and begins on Wednesday, January 10 at 10:00 AM.  Call 561-868-7701 or visit wpbcitylibrary.org to register or for more information.  Sponsored by a grant from the West Palm Beach Arts & Entertainment District obtained by the WPB Library Foundation.

Get to Know Hemingway & His Writing

Thursday, January 11

2:30 PM - 4:30 PM

Clematis Room

Join Palm Beach State College professor Terryl Lawrence, Ed.D., as she delves into the art of Hemingway’s writing and how the his infamous personal life came through in his writing.    For more information, visit wpbcitylibrary.org or call 561-868-7701.

Stop the Bleed:  How to Save a Life

Saturday, January 13

1:30 PM – 3:30 PM

Clematis Room

St. Mary’s Medical Center staff will present this workshop to teach non-medical bystanders what they can do to stop bleeding in the event of an accident or serious injury.  For more information, visit wpbcitylibrary.org or call 561-868-7701.

Painting Seascapes in Pastel

Tuesday, January 16

9:45 AM – 12:00 PM

Auditorium

Join local artist Deborah LaFogg and learn how to create unique seascapes using pastel colors.  Ms. LaFogg is an experienced landscape artist known for creating photorealistic works of nature.  All supplies provided.  Open to all skill levels.  Registration required and begins on Thursday, January 11 at 10:00 AM.  Call 561-868-7701 or visit wpbcitylibrary.org to register or for more information.   Sponsored by a grant from the West Palm Beach Arts & Entertainment District obtained by the WPB Library Foundation.

DIY Healthy Food Gifts

Tuesday, January 16

6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Clematis Room

Join Chef Nina Kauder, a CIA graduate and popular local vegan chef and educator, and you’ll be ready for Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, or even Stuffed Mushroom Day (yes, it’s a thing – February 4th).  These healthy and easy-to-make food gifts look beautiful and will leave them wanting more.  For more information, visit wpbcitylibrary.org or call 561-868-7701.

Prominent Artists of the Harlem Renaissance 

Wednesday, January 17

2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Auditorium

Join Joan Lipton, Ph.D., an independent lecturer and art historian, and learn about the prominent artists of the Harlem Renaissance.  She will discuss the wonderful contributions of these talented artists during a time of social, cultural and artistic celebration.  For more information, visit wpbcitylibrary.org or call 561-868-7701.  Sponsored by a grant from the West Palm Beach Arts & Entertainment District obtained by the WPB Library Foundation.

8 Deadly Patterns Preventing You From Leading The Life You Want

Wednesday, January 17

6:00 PM – 7:30 PM

Clematis Room

Join Liane Sangollo, Professional Certified Coach and Applied Certified Neuroscience Practitioner, as she teaches and shares techniques to take charge of your life by ending self-sabotage.  For more information, visit wpbcitylibrary.org or call 561-868-7701.

Painting with Uncommon Tools

Thursday, January 18

5:45 PM – 8:00 PM

Clematis Room

Join artist Nickie Hennevelt of Tiny Doors WPB as she guides you in creating art using uncommon tools instead of a brush, and teaches the effects of using different tools.  All supplies provided.  Open to all skill levels.  Registration required and begins on Wednesday, January 17 at 10:00 AM.  Call 561-868-7701 or visit wpbcitylibrary.org to register or for more information.  Sponsored by a grant from the West Palm Beach Arts & Entertainment District obtained by the WPB Library Foundation.

New Year's Resolution Workshop (in Spanish/en Español)

Thursday, January 18

6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Hibiscus Room

Join Jimmy Gill and learn how to form effective and realistic New Year’s Resolutions and how to carry them out.  Jimmy Gill is a life coach and author of the self-help book on resiliency called Mi Trauma Favorito (My Favorite Trauma).  For more information, visit wpbcitylibrary.org or call 561-868-7701.

F. Scott Fitzgerald & the Pursuit of Greatness

Monday, January 22

2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Clematis Room

Throughout his life, F. Scott Fitzgerald pursued greatness in the social, professional, and romantic aspects of his life.  This talk addresses the events in his life that shaped his fundamental need for achieving greatness and his pursuit of it.  Presented English and Literature Professor at Palm Beach State College Matt Klauza.  For more information, visit wpbcitylibrary.org or call 561-868-7701.

Basic/Intermediate Guitar Class

Monday, January 22 & 29

6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Hibiscus Room

If you love music and have a guitar, come jam in our group guitar class.  No matter your skill level or playing style, this workshop led by Phill Fest, local guitarist and composer, will help you learn more about your instrument so you can have more fun while you play.  Bring your own guitar.  For more information, visit wpbcitylibrary.org or call 561-868-7701.

Urban Stories Festival:  Howl at the Moon

Sunday, January 28

2:00 PM – 4:30 PM

Auditorium and Hibiscus Room

Enjoy Day 2 of this two-day storytelling event at the Mandel Public Library (Day 1 is at Flagler Shore). Guests can share experiences, celebrate diversity and find common ground through discussions, writing workshops and live performances.  Children can attend a special storytime while parents workshop.  Presented by Florida Atlantic University and partners.For more information, visit urbanstoriesfestival.com or call 561-868-7701.

Get to Know Cole Porter

Monday, January 29

2:30 PM – 4:30 PM

Clematis Room

Join Palm Beach State College professor Terryl Lawrence, Ed.D., as she delves into the fascinating life of Cole Porter, celebrated American composer and songwriter, and why his legacy (and music) still lives on today.    For more information, visit wpbcitylibrary.org or call 561-868-7701.

The Many Lives (and Wives) of Ernest Hemingway

Tuesday, January 30

2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Clematis Room

Ernest Hemingway was known for a life of fame, fortune, and adventure.  However, many people are not aware of the women who supported, encouraged, and even challenged the famous American author.  This talk, presented by English and Literature Professor at Palm Beach State College Matt Klauza, explores the author’s life and the women with whom he lived it.  For more information, visit wpbcitylibrary.org or call 561-868-7701.

Learn how to Use Tar Gel in Art

Tuesday, January 30

9:45 AM – 12:00 PM

Auditorium

Join local artist Missy Pierce and learn how to use pigment mediums such as Tar Gel to enhance your art.  Ms. Pierce is known for her vibrant abstract and figurative paintings.  All supplies provided.  Open to all skill levels.  Registration required and begins on Monday, January 29 at 10:00 AM.  Call 561-868-7701 or visit wpbcitylibrary.org to register or for more information.  Sponsored by a grant from the West Palm Beach Arts & Entertainment District obtained by the WPB Library Foundation.

“Get That Job” Workshop

Tuesday, January 30

10:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Hibiscus Room

Get free lunch and a flash drive at this workshop that covers resumes, job markets, interviewing skills and more with Career Consultant Angela Wing-Allen.  Registration is required.  Sponsored by a grant from Wells Fargo Bank.  For more information, visit wpbcitylibrary.org or call 561-868-7760.

Career Online High School Orientation

Tuesday, January 30

1:00 PM – 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Square One, 2nd Floor

Are you looking to earn a standard high school diploma but don’t know where to begin? Learn about the Career Online High School program at our Square One center and the scholarships available for those who would like to finish high school in an online, self-paced environment. For more information, visit wpbcitylibrary.org or call 561-868-7707.

CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS

Slime Lab

Tuesday, January 2

1:30 PM – 3:30 PM

KidSpace - 3rd Floor

Join the slime craze hitting home kitchens across the nation – without the mess.  Kids can be a slime scientist and learn how to make and take home their very own slime.  For children, ages 4-12.

Pop-Up Art Party

Thursday, January 4

1:30 PM – 3:30 PM

KidSpace - 3rd Floor

Kids can join Artist and Children’s Librarian Jeanne Taylor to explore vibrant colors and repeated motifs, and create their own modern masterpiece.  Dress to get messy.  For more information, visit wpbcitylibrary.org or call 561-868-7703.

Kids Afterschool Homework Center

Mondays – Thursdays (Starting Monday, January 8)

4:00 PM – 7:30 PM

Kidspace, 3rd Floor

Kids can get help with their homework from certified teachers for FREE!  Students in grades K - 5 will receive assistance with all subjects and projects in Kidspace, 3rd floor.  Sponsored by the West Palm Beach Library Foundation.  For more information, visit wpbcitylibrary.org or call 561-868-7703.

Step by Step … Kindergarten Prep

Starting Tuesday, January 9 (days/times listed below)

Kidspace, 3rd Floor

Through the use of music and movement, songs, rhymes, art and great books, your child will develop the essential skills needed for kindergarten readiness.

For more information, visit wpbcitylibrary.org or call 561-868-7703.

Step 1: Babies, 12-24 Months with Ms. Kristine

Fridays, 10:30 AM

Step 2: Toddlers, 2 and 3 Years with Ms. Jeanne

Wednesdays at 10:30 AM

Step 3: Preschoolers, 3-4 Years with Ms. Jin

Tuesdays at 10:30 AM

LegoMANIA

Sunday, January 14

1:00 PM – 4:30 PM

KidSpace – 3rd Floor

Join us for an afternoon of LEGO fun. Become a LEGO engineer, create a LEGO masterpiece and play with our giant blocks.  For more information, visit wpbcitylibrary.org or call 561-868-7703.

Kids Can Cook

Thursday, January 25

4:00 PM – 5:00 PM

KidSpace, 3rd Floor

Join us for a cooking class for elementary-aged kids in grades 3 – 5.  Children will learn cooking basics during this fun and interactive class while engaging literacy, math and science skills. Registration is required and space is limited.  Sponsored by a grant from the Quantum Foundation obtained by the WPB Library Foundation.  For more information, visit wpbcitylibrary.org or call 561-868-7703 to register. 

TEEN PROGRAMS:

Teen Afterschool Homework Center

Mondays – Thursdays (Starting Monday, January 8)

5:00 PM – 8:00 PM

TeenSource, 2nd Floor

Teens can get help with their homework from certified teachers for FREE!  Students in grades 6 – 12 will receive assistance with all subjects and projects in TeenSource, 2nd floor.  Sponsored by the West Palm Beach Library Foundation. For more information, visit wpbcitylibrary.org or call 561-868-7703.

Popular City of West Palm Beach Links

Sanitation Holiday Schedule: http://wpb.org/Departments/Engineering-Public-Works/Sanitation/2016-Holiday-Schedule

City Commission, CRA Meetings, Agendas: http://wpb.org/Meetings-Events/City-Commission-Meeting-Agendas

City Job Opportunities: http://wpb.org/Departments/Human-Resources/Home/I-want-to-work-for-the-City-of-West-Palm-Beach

Paying Your Utility Bill: http://wpb.org/utilities/paying-your-utility-bill/

Road Closure Updates: http://wpb.org/News-Video/Road-Closure-Updates

WPB-TV Live: http://wpb.org/News-Video/Live-Video-Ch-18

Mandel Public Library of West Palm Beach: http://wpb.org/Departments/Library/Overview

Grassy Waters Preserve of West Palm Beach: http://wpb.org/grassywaters/

Vickers House of West Palm Beach: http://wpb.org/vickers

Upcoming City Center Closures

Please note that City Center will be closed December 25, 26 in observance of Christmas, January 1 in observance of New Year's, and January 15 in observance of the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday.

Check out the City of West Palm Beach Twitter family:

City news:

@WestPalmBch 

__________

Mayor Jeri Muoio:

@JMuoio

__________

Office of Sustainability:

@WPBgreen

__________

Office of Economic Development:

@WPBbusiness

__________

Mandel Public Library of WPB:

@myCityLibrary

__________

West Palm Beach Fire Rescue:

@WPBfire

__________

West Palm Beach Police:

@WestPalmPD