County issues multiple proclamations honoring veterans, recovery programs, Riviera Beach and community organizations

The Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners used a large portion of its Aug. 25, 2026 meeting to issue proclamations to community organizations and observances.

Highlights included the declaration of August as Veterans & First Responders Month; recognition of Riviera Beach as a 2026 All‑American City (Mayor Douglas Lawson accepted and described youth and neighborhood programs); a proclamation honoring Justin Bartlett Animal Rescue Day and the group’s low‑cost clinic services; and a proclamation of National Black Business Month, accepted by Keeley Gideon Taylor of the Black Chamber of the Palm Beaches. The board also recognized International Overdose Awareness Day and heard personal testimonials from recovery hub participants who described transportation, housing and employment supports they received from county recovery hubs.

Other proclamations included Supercar Week (Jan. 3–10, 2027), National Golf Month, Daughters of the American Revolution Day, and Back to School Month; the Education Foundation reported distribution of more than 36,700 backpacks this year and plans to prepare 40,000 next season.

Quotes in the meeting reflected gratitude and a focus on community services: Keeley Gideon Taylor said, "My name is Keeley Gideon Taylor, and I represent the Black Chamber of Commerce of Palm Beach County," and Ramsey Chessman (in a later item) summarized a banking contract that will benefit county finances.