LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION
IN THE SPOTLIGHT | Palm Beach County League launches programming initiative | In the effort to engage our membership and the broader community, the Palm Beach County League of Women Voters is launching new Zoom programs focused on current issues and activities aligned with our mission.
The inaugural program, "Recent and Upcoming Activities of the PBC Legislative Delegation,” was presented Aug. 27 by Rich Bartholomew, who chairs the Advocacy team. He provided an insightful overview of how the PBC Legislative Delegation prioritizes issues and funding that directly impact Palm Beach County’s residents and institutions. He emphasized the quiet bipartisan approach to advancing legislation that serves constituents.
One of the 2025 Legislative Session’s notable successes was the passage of SB 80, a major bill to protect Florida’s State Parks. The legislation received strong bipartisan support, introduced by Sen. Gayle Harrell (Republican) and co-sponsors included Sen. Mack Bernard (Democrat), both representing Palm Beach County. Looking ahead to the 2026 Session, Rich expects a "rocky road" as the delegation navigates the controversial proposal to eliminate property taxes at the state level. To watch the recording, it is available on our YouTube page.
The next scheduled program is “Valuable Resources: Support for our Community” — a spotlight on underused local resources that support residents in meaningful ways. The date for the program is Tuesday, Nov. 11, at 7 p.m.
These timely, informative sessions are made possible by the Speakers Bureau team, whose behind-the-scenes coordination, outreach and presentation support are the backbone of this initiative. Their dedication ensures that our league’s voice is heard and our values are shared widely.
— Lori Geiger, Speakers Bureau |  | From left: Palm Beach County Commissioner Maria Sachs, Second Vice President Reisha Roopchand Allen, Director Janet Elinoff, Palm Beach County Mayor Maria Marino, First Vice President Joyce Sullivan, President Amy Kemp, Commissioner Joel Flores, Commissioner Sara Baxter and Commissioner Marci Woodward. | PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE
County Commission honors chapter's 50-year milestone | We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to Palm Beach County Commissioner Joel Flores for initiating this wonderful proclamation recognizing the League of Women Voters of Palm Beach County on Women's Equality Day. This meaningful recognition reminds us that the right to vote was hard-won through the courage of countless women who came before us, and that our Palm Beach County chapter, established in 1975, has been a steadfast voice for democracy for nearly 50 years. From Jupiter to Boca Raton, our League has strengthened democratic participation through voter registration drives, candidate forums, and civic education programs, growing alongside this dynamic county to ensure every voice is heard.
Amy Kemp, President
| STATE OF THE FLORIDA GIRL REPORT
| Leaguers Janet Elinoff, Nancy Zimmers, Natalia Williams, Elle Harrigan, Alice Mann, Lori Geiger and Annie McGrath at a presentation of the State of the Florida Girl Report. | A sobering look at the alarming pressures they face
| More than half of high school girls report persistent sadness, with one in four having seriously considered suicide, and nearly half are not meeting grade-level math standards. These statistics – and more – are part of the Girl Scouts’ State of the Florida Girl Report.
Hear the findings of the 80-page peer-reviewed State of the Florida Girl Report, which will be presented by Elle Harrigan, chief advancement officer of the Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida. This community program takes place at the Mandel Public Library, 411 Clematis St., in downtown West Palm Beach from 3 to 5 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 16.
The report highlights key indicators of well-being: physical health, academic performance, emotional wellness and social support. Join us for this presentation where we’ll unpack the data, explore actionable solutions and discuss how we can collectively uplift Florida’s girls.
Community engagement and targeted support is urgently needed. Your voice — and your presence — can help shape a brighter future. To attend, please register on the League website, LWVPBC.org. Admission is free, but seating is limited.
– Janet Elinoff, Speakers Bureau Chair
| LWVFL OKs TWO NEW LWVPBC PRESENTATIONS | Rich Bartholomew, LWVPBC advocacy chair, and Marcia Lamel created two presentations, with editing talent provided by Lori Geiger and Judy Giller, which have now been approved by the state for use.
Rich’s presentation, "Interacting with Public Officials and their Staff,” and Marcia’s presentation, "Separation of Powers,” expand our ability to inform and engage the community, and align closely with our League’s mission to empower voters and defend democracy.
– Janet Elinoff, Speakers Bureau Chair
| CARUSO LEAVES FLORIDA HOUSE FOR COUNTY POST
| | Florida Rep. Mike Caruso resigned his District 87 seat after being appointed Palm Beach County clerk of the circuit court and comptroller by Gov. Ron DeSantis. Caruso takes the place of Joseph Abruzzo, the former clerk and comptroller who recently became Palm Beach County Administrator. Caruso, a CPA from Delray Beach, was first elected to the Florida House in 2018. A special election is expected to be called to fill the District 87 seat. | | | BE THE DIFFERENCE FOR SOMEONE SUFFERING | September is National Suicide Prevention Month | One conversation — asking someone how they’re doing and being ready to listen — can save a life. Because here’s what we know: Help exists. Healing is possible. But some 49,000 Americans died by suicide in 2023.
Like mental health conditions, suicidal thoughts can affect anyone. They may be common, but should never be seen as normal. Most often they signal deep emotional pain or an underlying mental health concern that deserves understanding, care and professional support. If you feel alone and have suicidal thoughts, or know someone who is, call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. It offers 24/7 judgment-free support for mental health, substance use and more.
Thanks to an increase in counselors, now numbering 234, the response rate in Florida is now about 80 percent. However, the number needed to reach 90 percent is 366. Marilyn Ricci, on the LWVPBC Healthcare Committee, and its partner, FLMHAC, have begun meeting with legislators to advocate for additional 988 funding.
For information on suicide and recognizing suicidal behavior, visit SAMHSA.gov, NAMI.org or AFSP.org. Locally, contact BocaRatonsPromise.org or FaulkCenterForCounseling.org
The above information is from the National Alliance on Mental Illness’ Suicide Prevention Toolkit.
— Marilyn Ricci, Healthcare
|  | SEPT. 8-12 IS DISABILITY VOTING RIGHTS WEEK
| | This campaign aims to increase the political participation of disability communities while also engaging candidates and the media on disability issues. Access The Vote Florida invites all stakeholders and advocates in the state to collaborate on effective, nonpartisan efforts to address the concerns of people with disabilities, eliminate barriers to voting, educate people with disabilities about issues and candidates, promote turnout of voters with disabilities and engage candidates and the media on disability issues. Article. | UPCOMING EVENTS
Click on the flyer to see the event
| BE A CHAMPION FOR CHILDREN | The LWVPBC Education Committee invites you to join its September meeting on Saturday, Sept. 27, from 10 a.m. to noon at Rohi’s Readery in West Palm Beach.
Brian Knowles, president of Power Builders and founder of Power Builders Curriculum and Pedagogies, LLC, will be our featured speaker. His work champions culturally affirming spaces in schools, community organizations and education-focused nonprofits. His presentation will focus on public education, offering valuable insights for League members passionate about strengthening our schools and communities.
Rohi’s Readery, at 630 Seventh St., West Palm Beach, is a social-justice-driven children’s bookstore and learning center where children can experience freedom as their most authentic selves.
This meeting is open to all interested League members. We hope you’ll join us for this meaningful conversation and community gathering. Refreshments will be provided.
— Marge Keller, Education Chair
| Registration for the Oct. 22 Hot Topic Luncheon opens on Sept. 10.
| From left: Debbie Oistacher, Carol Carnevale, Chamber President Juan Pagán, Janet Elinoff, Catherine Shore Martinez, Elissa Hardy-Shafer, Daniel Vivar with the chamber, Jose Martinez, Clelia “Lily” Kondo with the chamber, and Emma Velez with the chamber. | Partnership and collaboration at its best | The PBC League partnered with the Florida Hispanic American Chamber of Commerce to present a program on the importance and history of voting. Members Elissa Hardy-Schafer and Janet Elinoff, chair of the Speakers Bureau, presented "Your Voice. Your Power. Your Vote." to the Chamber during its Aug. 20 meeting at the Supervisor of Elections Office in West Palm Beach. Carol Carnevale and Catherine Shore Martinez represented Voter Services. Debbie Oistacher represented Membership. | League offer voters assistance, info at health fair | | The annual T. Leroy Jefferson Medical Society’s community health fair is a regular stop for our League, and Germaine Richards (above, with Dr. Monica Walker and Dr. Roger Duncan), First Vice President Joyce Sullivan (not pictured) and Healthcare Co-chair Nancy Gau (at left) represented the LWVPBC this year at the event, held Aug. 9 at JFK Middle School in Riviera Beach. Our team offered assistance with voter registration and vote-by-mail updates, and distributed petitions for a Constitutional Amendment to expand Medicaid in the state. Gau also distributed 988 suicide prevention placards. | | | Team helps seniors with voter registration | | Thank you to Janet Clark, a Voter Services team leader, for helping senior citizens register to vote and update their vote-by-mail requests during a LWVPBC visit to the Ellison Independent Living facility in Lake Worth on July 28. Senior facilities are a focus area of the Voter Services committee, as many residents need to update their mailing addresses (and therefore precinct) after moving to a facility as well as help renewing their request to vote by mail. VBM registration expires every two years now in Florida under state law, and for many seniors with mobility issues, voting by mail is the best option. | ‘Take League Local’ to begin in Boca Raton | Boca Raton members — be the first to Take the League Local. You’re invited to one, or both, of these fun, low-key, strictly informal opportunities to meet friends and neighbors who share your interest in the League.
For those who prefer evening hours, please come to Happy Hour at Maggiano’s on Wednesday, Oct. 15, any time between 5 and 7 p.m. The address is 21090 St. Andrews Blvd.
Early birds might prefer to go for coffee at the Starbucks in Boca Town Center Circle on Saturday, Oct. 18, any time between 10 and 11 a.m. The address is 5250 Town Center Circle.
Early in October, “expressions of interest” will be appreciated. Watch for an email. Questions now? Please contact SusanBreece@bellsouth.net.
— Susan Breece, Membership
| A warm-hearted welcome to our newest members | Their contact information is available in the Member Directory at LWVPBC.org.
Jaime Akkusu (Boca Raton), Franki Wilson (Boca Raton), Miranda Johnson (Boca Raton), Arlyne Marks (Delray Beach), Melissa Cubillos (West Palm Beach), Jose Velasquez-Vicente (West Palm Beach), Dorothy Smith (Jupiter), Sophie Wilzig-Garcia (Jupiter) and Sylvia Whiting (Stoughton, Mass.)
— Linda Sorenson, Membership
| NEWS FROM THE NATIONAL LEAGUE | LEAGUE TO GOVERNORS: PROTECT COMMUNITIES
LWV opposes mid-cycle redistricting, but releases guidance to ensure historically disenfranchised communities are protected.
| LEAGUE, LIBRARIANS PUSH CIVIC COLLABORATION
Joint resource, published with American Library Association, aims to inspire and support year-round civic programming in libraries.
| 'WE WILL FIGHT TO PROTECT VOTE-BY-MAIL
and every method that makes casting a ballot accessible,' says LWV CEO Celina Stewart
| THE VOTING RIGHTS ACT: THEN AND NOW
League of Women Voters looks into the impact of the 60-year-old law and how we can ensure its legacy continues.
|  | Thank you for your ongoing support of our mission to Empower Voters and Defend Democracy. As a nonpartisan organization, the League of Women Voters of Palm Beach County is dedicated to ensuring that every vote counts and that voter turnout continues to grow through robust registration and education efforts.
We’d love your help in expanding our reach by spreading the word about our social media presence. Please take a moment to like or follow our pages, and encourage others in your networks to do the same. Staying connected online helps us amplify our impact and keep our community informed about upcoming events, voter resources and important advocacy work.
Here are our official social media pages:
🔗 LinkedIn: League of Women Voters of Palm Beach County
📸 Instagram: @lwvpalmbeachcounty
🎵 TikTok: @lwvpbc
📘 Facebook: LWV Palm Beach County
Your engagement makes a difference. Thank you for helping us strengthen democracy here in Palm Beach County.
| |