A Message from Marci
Every year, the Board of County Commissioners has a few weeks between meetings in July and August. It’s a welcome opportunity to slow down a little, recharge, and spend some extra time with the people and places we don’t always get to enjoy during a busy year.
This year, I didn’t pack a suitcase I spent my break close to home and I have to say, I really enjoyed it. My husband, Michael, and I had the chance to spend some extra time together, and I was able to catch up with friends who I don’t get to see nearly as often as I would like. And, of course, there was plenty of time spent with Toby, Fritz, and Zoey. With three dogs in the house, there is never a shortage of entertainment, or someone looking for a little extra attention!
Staying close to home also gave me more time to enjoy some of the things that make our area so special. I visited several of my favorite local restaurants and had the chance to get out into the community for a number of events.
One of the highlights was taking part in several events with the Boca Raton Chamber as part of Festival Days. Throughout August, Festival Days brings local businesses and nonprofit organizations together for events that support great causes and showcase the incredible sense of community we have here.
Of course, you can’t talk about this summer without talking about the heat! It has definitely been a hot one. After living in South Florida for 20 plus years, you would think I’d be used to it by now, but there have certainly been a few days when stepping outside was just unpleasant.
As much as I love summer, I have to admit that I’m ready for what comes next, football season! I’m looking forward to attending a few games this year and cheering on our home teams. I’ll be rooting for the Florida Atlantic University Owls as they take the field in Boca Raton. Go Owls! And, of course, I’ll also be cheering for the Miami Dolphins. Fins Up, and Dolphins, please don’t break my heart this year!
Before football season gets into full swing, though, I have another occasion to celebrate. My birthday! I’ll be turning 49. It’s a little hard to believe that this is officially my last year in my 40s. The big 5-0 will be waiting for me next August, so I plan on making the most of 49. Although my 40s have been fantastic, I’m looking forward to a fabulous 50s!
I’m grateful for the opportunity to recharge, but I’m also excited to get back to work. We have a busy fall ahead at the County, and I look forward to getting back to our Board meetings, spending time in the district, and continuing to serve the residents of Palm Beach County.
I hope you and your families have enjoyed your summer, stayed cool, and found a little time to recharge, too. And if you see me at an Owls or Dolphins game this fall, be sure to say hello!
Summer Fun In Palm Beach County
August was National Golf Month, a time to celebrate the game of golf and the many ways it benefits our communities, from promoting health and recreation to supporting tourism, youth development, environmental stewardship, and local economies.
There’s no better place to celebrate than right here in Palm Beach County! Known as the “Golf Capital of the World,” Palm Beach County is home to more than 160 golf courses, offering opportunities for golfers of all ages and skill levels to enjoy the game.
In recognition of National Golf Month, Palm Beach County is proud to highlight the outstanding golf facilities owned and operated by the Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation Department: John Prince Golf Learning Center, Osprey Point Golf Course, Okeeheelee Golf Course, Park Ridge Golf Course, and Southwinds Golf Course.
Did you know Osprey Point Golf Course was named 2026 Municipal Golf Course of the Year? Go check it out at https://discover.pbc.gov/parks/golf/Pages/default.aspx
Student Internship
This month, we said goodbye to our student intern, Ronica Deshmukh, as she wrapped up her summer with our office!
Ronica is a student at Florida State University, where she is pursuing bachelor’s degrees in Finance and Theatre. Prior to joining our office, she gained valuable experience as a legislative intern for Senator Mack Bernard.
Ronica jumped right in this summer, gaining hands-on experience in many different aspects of our office. From attending community events and meetings to working on Board agendas and assisting with day-to-day projects, she was always eager to learn and willing to help wherever needed.
Ronica, thank you for spending your summer with us! We wish you all the best as you head back to FSU for the fall semester and continue working toward your goals. We know you have a bright future ahead, and we hope to see you again soon!
Hurricane Season
It is hurricane season, and as an avid pet lover, I know that preparing for our furry family members is just as important as preparing ourselves. My dogs are part of my family, and I make sure they have a plan before every storm. I encourage every pet owner to do the same.
Palm Beach County operates a Pet-Friendly Shelter for eligible residents who live in mandatory evacuation zones, mobile homes, or substandard housing. The shelter is located at the West Boynton Recreational Center (6000 Northtree Blvd., Lake Worth). Space is limited, and pre-registration is required.
For more information about the Pet-Friendly Shelter and how to pre-register, visit pbc.gov/animal or call 561-233-1200.
If you are not eligible for the shelter or have not pre-registered, please make alternative arrangements for your pets before a storm threatens. Consider having them stay with friends or family outside the evacuation area, boarding them with your veterinarian or a licensed pet boarding facility, or identifying pet-friendly hotels along your evacuation route.
As you prepare, make sure your pets are hurricane-ready by:
• Keeping ID tags and rabies licenses current.
• Ensuring collars include your current contact information.
• Having food, water, medications, and supplies packed in an emergency kit.
• Arranging for a trusted neighbor or friend to care for your pets if a storm occurs while you are away.
Welcoming New Leadership
On Friday, July 24, the South Florida Regional Transportation Authority (SFRTA) Governing Board, on which I proudly serve, appointed Dave Kubicek as the new Executive Director of Tri-Rail.
With more than 35 years of experience in passenger rail and public transportation, Dave brings exceptional leadership and expertise to South Florida’s commuter rail system. I look forward to working alongside Dave and my fellow Board members to take Tri-Rail into the next chapter!
Welcome aboard, Dave!
Nonprofit Spotlight
This month I’m pleased to highlight the Boca Raton Police Foundation and the role it plays in our community. Established in 2013, the Foundation is a nonprofit organization that provides supplemental support to the Boca Raton Police Department.
Through its work, the Foundation has helped provide resources for advanced training, specialized equipment and technology, officer wellness programs, K-9 initiatives, and community outreach. It has also supported projects such as Lauren’s House, a tactical training facility named in honor of fallen Boca Raton Police Officer Lauren Kresse.
The Foundation is led by a volunteer Board of Trustees made up of local business and community leaders who share a commitment to public safety. Their work is a great example of the partnerships that exist throughout Boca Raton to support the officers who serve and protect our community each day.
For more information, visit https://bocaratonpolicefoundation.org/. If you require assistance, please contact our office at 561-355-2204 or email [email protected].
