Exhibition of Never-Before-Seen Portraits of Beat Generation Icons Kicks Off Photo Centre’s 35th Anniversary.
(West Palm Beach, FL – August 21, 2023) Fatima NeJame, president and chief executive officer of the world-renowned Palm Beach Photographic Centre (PBPC), today announced its next major exhibition that will kick off the nonprofit organization’s 35th anniversary.
BEATITUDE: The Beat Attitude
Photographs by Joey Tranchina
October 20 Through January 6
On the grounds of the San Francisco Poetry Center, 1979. Allen Ginsburg. Photo: Joey Tranchina.
This stunning exhibition of over 70 images and commanding enlargements includes iconic culture-bending poets, activists, and artists of the Beat Generation, including Allen Ginsberg, Diane di Prima, Amiri Baraka, Kenneth Rexroth, Michael McClure, and more.
This collection of images taken in the 1960s and ’70s by little-known poet/photographer/activist Joey Tranchina were stored away for nearly 50 years before being discovered by his son in 2018 and later shared with critic and art historian Dr.Anthony Bannon and art consultant and producer Dolores Lusitana, who will discuss the exhibition at a special presentation at the Palm Beach Central Library on October 21.
BEATITUDE captures a cross-generational array of multi-cultural, race and gender diverse artists linked by a “Beat” aesthetic which founded an early social movement that championed humanity over economy, ecology over industry, and equal rights for women and men regardless of race, social status, or sexual orientation.
BEATITUDE: The Beat Attitude, a book of Joey Tranchina’s photographs, with an essay by Bannon and introduction by American Book Award winning poet Ed Sanders, is forthcoming internationally from Steidl Verlag.
“Tranchina’s work must be the most extensive pictorial assembly of Beat related artists and thinkers depicted by a single photographer,” says Dr. Bannon, the author of 49 books and emeritus director (1996-2012) of the George Eastman Museum in Rochester, NY. “The photographs, rendered in dramatic black and white, include masterful representations of the heroes recognized in their time by Nobel and Pulitzer awards, Academy and Obie prizes for film and theater, and appointments by both the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame and the American Society of Arts and Letters. Here are the poets laureate named by states and nations and the recipients of the highest praise granted internationally through university doctorates.”
“These were the international thought leaders,” adds Lusitana, who organized the archive for exhibition and publication and served as the artist’s project director. “Joey Tranchina cast a wide net in his own appreciation and participation in the global change of culture. Time has supported his selections, including Nobel Prize winning Czeslaw Milosz; the great Russian poets whose readings came to fill a sports stadium, namely Yevgeny Yevtushenko and Andrei Voznesensky; and Margaret Atwood, an early contributor to Beat publications in Canada.”
“The Palm Beach Photographic Centre’s 35 years of service in Florida – and the nation – is nicely summarized by BEATITUDE, for ours has definitely been a Beat Attitude, always ready for change, proceeding with a vision to participate in a spirit of excellence and achievement,” says NeJame. “This show is a perfect way to begin our 35th anniversary celebration—and in conjunction with this exhibition we will be presenting a series of lectures, conversations, and special guests, who participated in the Beat revolution.
The Palm Beach Photographic Centre will host a FREE opening reception on Friday, October 20, from 6 to 8 pm.
27th Annual Juried Exhibition
Now On Display Through September 23
At the Palm Beach Photographic Centre
“our Annual Juried Exhibition provides a glimpse into the diverse work and the unique perspectives of 50 different photographers, many of them members of the Palm Beach Photographic Centre,” touts NeJame. “The juror for this exhibition is Adam Stoltman, a celebrated photographer, editor, media developer, and consultant. The exhibit is also featured on the Photo Centre’s official website at www.workshop.org.”
About the Palm Beach Photographic Centre:
The Photo Centre is located at the downtown City Center municipal complex at 415 Clematis Street in downtown West Palm Beach. Hours are 10 am to 6 pm Monday through Thursday, and 10 am to 5 pm Friday and Saturday. For more information, please call 561.253.2600 or visit www.workshop.org or www.fotofusion.org.
The Palm Beach Photographic Centre is a non-profit organization dedicated to enriching life through the photographic arts. All donations are greatly appreciated at www.workshop.org/contrib.
On August 12th, the Box Gallery re-opened at a new location, 809 Belvedere Road, West Palm Beach, FL 33405.
The Box Art Gallery was thrilled to unveil its new location with the highly-anticipated “Florida! See it Like a Native” exhibition. The “Florida! See it Like a Native” exhibition aims to celebrate the rich and diverse artistic heritage of the Sunshine State, paying homage to the talent and creativity of local artists.
13 hospitals in Palm Beach County and the Treasure Coast recognized for efforts to improve outcomes for Americans with heart disease and stroke
The American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines® initiative promotes up-to-date, research-based guidelines to ensure all patients have access to lifesaving care
Heart disease and stroke are the No. 1 and No. 5 causes of death in the United States, respectively. These health crises require swift and proven treatment to ensure the best outcomes for patients. The American Heart Association, devoted to a world of healthier lives for all, sets the standards for high-quality, science-based care and access that all patients deserve.
“Every 40 seconds, someone in America has a stroke or heart attack,” says Kayla Fox, executive director of the American Heart Association Palm Beach County. “Access to high-quality care is something that everyone should have, and the Get With The Guidelines program helps ensure all patients can access high-quality care.”
Each year, the American Heart Association recognizes hospitals across the country for consistently following up-to-date, research-based guidelines to ensure all patients have access to lifesaving care. In the tri-county area, 13 hospitals were recognized this year:
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 nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
An Exhibit of Black Cultural Legacy Artifacts from August 25 to December 26, 2023
Delray Beach, Fla. – August 14, 2023 – The Spady Cultural Heritage Museum proudly announces its latest exhibit, Thresholds, a collection of African artifacts and artwork that mark the milestones of a life journey. The show features pieces from the Spady Museum Collection and special artifacts from the Kay Crawford Collection and the Dr. Cecil Jonas Collection. Thresholds is co-curated by Joanne Hamsptead and Khaulah Naima Nuruddin.
In the exhibit, each carefully curated artifact tells a tale of a “threshold” – such as a birth, initiation, marriage or death – that a person crosses with the assistance and guidance of unique ceremonies, rituals, and artistic expressions.
For example, several cultures throughout Africa practice passage ceremonies for their young people. A component of the rite is represented in the exhibit with pieces of beaded jewelry from the Nigerian Yoruba tribe. The intricately designed jewelry, which are worn by men and women around their waistlines, indicates their crossing of the spiritual threshold into adulthood.
“The ceremony is an important cultural tradition for the Krobo people and is seen as a way of preserving their heritage. It is also an opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate the growth and development of their young girls,” said Crawford, owner of several pieces in the exhibit.
Other artifacts include fertility figurines, statutes, a Swahili bench, beaded Nigerian crowns, masks, aloalo (funerary pole sculpture from the Madagascar region), and monumental figures, such as Baga snakes, wooden figurines that beckon in a fertile harvest.
Guests will learn about the artifacts’ significance to each of the African cultures they represent and how the engrained rituals were practiced by African people, even as they were dispersed throughout the Diaspora.
“Many of the ceremonies and rituals symbolized by the artifacts in this exhibit made their way to the Americas and are practiced in new ways. Our exploration of the old and implementation in new ways is part of the practice of Sankofa, looking back as we move forward,” said Museum Director Charlene Farrington.
Opened in 2001, the Spady Cultural Heritage Museum is the only cultural center of its kind in Palm Beach County. Located at 170 NW Fifth Avenue in Delray Beach, it is dedicated to showcasing the contributions of the African Diaspora to Florida and the U.S. Programs include exhibitions, museum tours, and community events. Hours: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., Tuesday-Saturday; Mondays by appointment. Closed Sundays. Admission: $20; Members are free. For more information, call 561-279-8883 or visit www.spadymuseum.com
Great Lawn | 100 N. Clematis Street,West Palm Beach, FL 33401
September 7:Cover to Cover (Rock‘n’ Roll) |Visit Website
Cover to Cover is a popular and talented rock ‘n’ roll band playing a wide selection of hits from the 1950s through the 1990s. The band puts its own stamp on songs from rockabilly to punk and arena rock to ’80s and ’90s radio hits. Audiences rave that they love the variety the band plays because they are songs no one else plays but everybody knows and loves!
September14:Catabella Music Band (Latin,Top’40s, Pop, Oldies, and Classic Rock |Visit Website
Catabella Music Band specializes in Latin music while also playing top ’40s, pop, oldies, disco, and classic rock. The group consists of young yet experienced professional musicians bringing diversity and energy to the dance floor.
September 21:Army Gideon (Reggae Fusion) |Visit Website
Based out of Fort Lauderdale, Army Gideon is a high-energy, reggae fusion band with eclectic, lyrical content that advocates for equal rights, justice, universal love, and Rastafari awareness through a militant persona. Their sound is most defined by reggae music, but it also transcends genres with blues, rock, and funk influences. All members of the band have shared the stage with reggae giants, including The Wailers, Dennis Brown, Akea Beka “Midnite,” Bunny Wailer, Ky-mani Marley, The Abyssinians, Yellowman, Chronixx, Apple Gabriel, and more.
September28:TheGoodnicks (Pop, Rock, Dance & Country) |Visit Website
The Goodnicks are a melodic three-part harmony pop, rock, dance and country outfit that derives its influence from such rock and country greats as Keith Urban, Rascal Flatts, Goo Goo Dolls, Kiss, and the Eagles, to name a few.
Screen on the Green
Second Friday of the month (September 8), 7 – 9 p.m.
Waterfront – The Great Lawn | 100 N. Clematis Street, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Vivo follows the adventures of a one-of-kind kinkajou (a rainforest “honey bear”) who spends his days playing music to the crowds in a lively square with his beloved owner, Andrés. Though they don’t speak the same language, Vivo, and Andrés bond over their love of music. Shortly after Andrés receives a letter from the famous Marta Sandoval, inviting him to her farewell concert with the hope of reconnecting, it’s up to Vivo to deliver a message that Andrés never could: a love letter to Marta, written long ago, in the form of a song. Yet to get to Marta, who lives a world away, Vivo needs help from Gabi, an energetic tween who bounces to the beat of her own offbeat drum.
SUNNY 107.9 Tribute Seriesat Sunday on the Waterfront
Third Sunday of the month (September 17), 4 – 7 p.m.
Meyer Amphitheatre | 104 Datura Street, West Palm Beach, Florida 33401
This month’s Sunday on the Waterfront will feature an ’80s tribute that will surely get concertgoers footloose! On the Roxx will rock the crowd with various rock, pop, oldies, Motown, disco, and dance hits. The band features bandleader and lead singer Diane DeNoble, an all-around entertainer who has performed on the stages of Broadway, Las Vegas, Atlantic City, Bali, and international cruise ships worldwide. She has made her home in West Palm Beach, where she continues to grace stages all over South Florida.
October 2023
West Palm BeachGreenMarket
Weekly onSaturdays through April20, 2024, starting on Saturday,October7| 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Great Lawn | 100 N. Clematis Street,West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Return of the Best Farmers Market in the U.S. (according toa USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ ChoicePollfor three years consecutively)
There it GROWS again! The West Palm Beach GreenMarket is growing – again! Save the date for the return of the West Palm Beach GreenMarket, which will feature 125 vendors – making the 2023 – 2024 season the largest season opener yet! Vendors will sell various products, including fresh fruits and vegetables, coffees and teas, flowers and plants, homemade specialty items, desserts and treats, and so much more. Visitors should be sure to check out the 30 NEW vendors, including:
Azme Taco, Brooklyn Cupcake, CasaPan Healthy Artisan Breads, Casa Truffle, Catherine’s Clean Skincare, Coastal Clay, Coconut Bar, Coley’s Crumbs, Colorado Coffer, Creamed Honey Co., Cultures, Earl’s Slow And Low BBQ, Farmerboxmeal, Fruitful Society Mushrooms, Heavenly Green, Hive Bakery & Café, Holy Smokes Fish Dip, Homegrown Shrimp USA, Kcee Nursery, Lo’s Pie Shop, La Strada, Liquid Gold Honey, Palm Beach Salt Co., Rancher’s Reserve, Rosa Ice Cream, Sugar Coat It Bakery, The Kookie Box, The Native Bird, The Stand by Palmtrees & Popcorn and Whispering Oak Kombucha.
Of note, opening day will include a special ceremony with Mayor Keith A. James and Commissioners to celebrate the start of the season (around 9:45 a.m.).
The West Palm Beach GreenMarket’s mission is to provide the community with seasonal access to locally grown fresh fruits, vegetables, plants, and agricultural products. The market supports the southeast Florida agricultural community and stimulates agricultural development, particularly in Palm Beach County, by providing an outlet for locally grown crops and specialty products.
Most recently, the GreenMarket was named the “Best Farmers Market” in the U.S. for the third year consecutively by USA TODAY 10Best via a Readers’ Choice poll. It has also been featured in The Boston Globe and named the No. 1 greenmarket in Florida by Cooking Light magazine. In 2021, the GreenMarket was recognized by VISIT FLORIDA with a prestigious silver Flagler Award at the tourism marketing cooperative’s annual Florida Governor’s Conference on Tourism.
Parking is available in the City of West Palm Beach’s public garages, which are the Clematis, Banyan, City Center, Sapodilla, and Evernia garages. The Banyan and Evernia garages are closest to the event and are subject to the City’s all-day weekend flat rate of $5. The City Center, Clematis, and Sapodilla garages will be free during market hours, with current parking rates in effect afterward. Those interested in arriving by boat can also take advantage of the City’s free public docks. The Clematis Street Dock is the closest dock to the market.
Key OctoberGreenMarket dates:
Weekly Workshops –Check out wpb.org/events for more info on the GreenMarket’s weekly workshops, designed to teach attendees market-related skills in a fun and social setting.
October 28 – Pet Costume Contest – suggested $10 donation (100% of proceeds go to Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League)
Clematis by Night
Thursdays, 6 – 9 p.m.
Great Lawn | 100 N. Clematis Street,West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Clematis by Night is about to get a little hotter with the energetic power trio that calls themselves The Flyers! The Flyers appeal to people of all interests and ages, including those who enjoy listening to good music, love to dance, or want to rock out. With three multi-instrumentalists in the band, attendees shouldn’t be surprised to see instruments exchanged in the middle of a song! The Flyers are a must-see act that always brings a good vibe for a good time.
October 12: Luis Manuel & TheCharambo Band (Classic Salsa & Cuban Son)
Established in 1999, Luis Manuel & The Charambo Band is considered one of Florida’s best big Salsa bands. The band consists of eight highly talented musicians performing classic Salsa with a touch of Cuban Son, and more.
October 19:Making Faces (Rock, Reggae &Funk) |Visit Website
Based in West Palm Beach, Making Faces band is a unique “ROGGUNK” band known for infusing rock, reggae, and funk flavors in their music. They’ve shared the same stage and been the opening act for bands such as The Offspring, Bare Naked Ladies, The Original Wailers, Fortunate Youth, Soul Asylum, Less Than Jake, 10th Avenue North, Slightly Stoopid, Reel Big Fish, and more.
Clematis by Fright —October 26:TheSpazmatics (’80s Cover Band) |Visit Website
A frightful twist on the weekly Clematis by Night series, Clematis by Fright is a FREE, family-friendly event that will offer fun for everyone. Activities include games, “Trick-or-Truck,” where kids can safely get candy from first responders and public works vehicles, hayrides, games, face painting, and more. There will also be a costume contest with prizes.
The Clematis by Fright band is The Spazmatics, an ’80s cover band. The Spazmatics are known for bringing back all the awesome sounds, styles, and dances from the ’80s – even those some may wish to forget! Complete with skinny ties, funky hair, and horn-rimmed glasses, The Spazmatics recapture all the best of the worst. Outstanding musicianship combined with creative flair and style creates an evening of pure energy and entertainment.
Screen on the Green
Second Friday of the month (October 13), 7 – 9 p.m.
Waterfront – The Great Lawn | 100 N. Clematis Street, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Film Feature:Hotel Transylvania 4:Transformania (PG) |Official Trailer
AboutHotel Transylvania 4:Transformania:
When Van Helsing’s mysterious invention, the “Monsterfication Ray,” goes haywire, Drac and his monster pals are all transformed into humans, and Johnny becomes a monster. In their new mismatched bodies, Drac, stripped of his powers, and Johnny, who loves life as a monster, must team up and race across the globe to find a cure before it’s too late and before they drive each other crazy. With help from Mavis and the hilariously human Drac Pack, the heat is on to find a way to switch themselves back before their transformations become permanent.
SUNNY 107.9 Tribute Seriesat SUNDAY ON THE WATERFRONT
Third Sunday of the month (October 15), 4 – 7 p.m.
Meyer Amphitheatre | 104 Datura Street, West Palm Beach, Florida 33401
Britain’s Finest (DuranDuran and David Bowie Tributes)|Visit Website
This dynamic band single-handedly delivers two scintillating tributes, faithfully resurrecting the iconic sounds of both Duran Duran and David Bowie. From the pulsating rhythms of “Rio” and “Girls on Film” to Bowie’s hypnotic “Starman” and “Heroes,” they have all their favorite hits covered. Guests should be ready to rock out British style with Britain’s Finest!
November 2023
West Palm BeachGreenMarket
Weekly on Saturdays through April20, 2024, starting on Saturday, October 7 | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Great Lawn | 100 N. Clematis Street,West Palm Beach, FL 33401
The West Palm Beach GreenMarket is back for the 2023 – 2024 season with the most vendors yet – 125! Vendors sell various products, including fresh fruits and vegetables, coffees and teas, flowers and plants, homemade specialty items, desserts, and treats, and so much more. Visitors should be sure to check out the 30 NEW vendors, including:
Azme Taco, Brooklyn Cupcake, CasaPan Healthy Artisan Breads, Casa Truffle, Catherine’s Clean Skincare, Coastal Clay, Coconut Bar, Coley’s Crumbs, Colorado Coffer, Creamed Honey Co., Cultures, Earl’s Slow And Low BBQ, Farmerboxmeal, Fruitful Society Mushrooms, Heavenly Green, Hive Bakery & Café, Holy Smokes Fish Dip, Homegrown Shrimp USA, Kcee Nursery, Lo’s Pie Shop, La Strada, Liquid Gold Honey, Palm Beach Salt Co., Rancher’s Reserve, Rosa Ice Cream, Sugar Coat It Bakery, The Kookie Box, The Native Bird, The Stand by Palmtrees & Popcorn and Whispering Oak Kombucha.
The West Palm Beach GreenMarket’s mission is to provide the community with seasonal access to locally grown fresh fruits, vegetables, plants, and agricultural products. The market supports the southeast Florida agricultural community and stimulates agricultural development, particularly in Palm Beach County, by providing an outlet for locally grown crops and specialty products.
Most recently, the GreenMarket was named the “Best Farmers Market” in the U.S. for the third year consecutively by USA TODAY 10Best via a Readers’ Choice poll. It has also been featured in The Boston Globe and named the No. 1 greenmarket in Florida by Cooking Light magazine. In 2021, the GreenMarket was recognized by VISIT FLORIDA with a prestigious silver Flagler Award at the tourism marketing cooperative’s annual Florida Governor’s Conference on Tourism.
Parking is available in the City of West Palm Beach’s public garages, which are the Clematis, Banyan, City Center, Sapodilla and Evernia garages. The Banyan and Evernia garages are closest to the event and are subject to the City’s all-day weekend flat rate of $5. The City Center, Clematis and Sapodilla garages will be free during market hours, with current parking rates in effect afterward. Those interested in arriving by boat can also take advantage of the City’s free public docks. The Clematis Street Dock is the closest dock to the market.
Key OctoberGreenMarket dates:
Weekly Workshops –Check out wpb.org/events for more info on the GreenMarket’s weekly workshops, designed to teach attendees market-related skills in a fun and social setting.
Clematis by Night
Thursdays, 6 – 9 p.m.
Great Lawn | 100 N. Clematis Street,West Palm Beach, FL 33401
November 2: Roots Shakedown (Rock, Roots & Reggae) |Visit Website
Get down with Roots Shakedown! Formed in 2009, Roots Shakedown creates original music with various influences, including rock, reggae and dub. The local band has captured listeners from around the globe with the release of its first EP in 2010, Mash Up The Sound, and never looked back.
November 9: Cover Up (Pop, Punk & Alternative) |Visit Website
Cover Up is a high-energy pop punk band based out of South Florida. The popular band has been performing for over a decade, bringing the songs that everyone knows and loves to the stage.
Terry Hanck is well known for his hard-blowing sax, incredible range and gusty vocals. He draws on a vast repertoire of songs, including many originals, and his energetic performances spotlight an artist at the peak of his craft. Terry Hanck brings a polished “festival” show that has wowed audiences throughout the United States, Canada and Europe.
November 23:NO CLEMATIS BY NIGHT | HappyThanksgiving
November 30:SAVE THE DATE FOR THE Clematis by Night Holiday Tree Lighting, featuring Sandi, the world’s only 700-ton holiday sand tree!
Join Sandi, the world’s only 700-ton holiday sand tree, and her cast of characters as Mayor James and the City of West Palm Beach officially welcome the return of Holiday in Paradise. The evening will include FREE entertainment, including live music, games, a holiday shopping bazaar in the Lake Pavilion, photos with Santa, and much more.
The featured band for the Clematis by Night Holiday Tree Lighting is The Music Machine (website: https://musicmachineflorida.com/). The band features five amazing singers and a powerful rhythm section bringing excitement, quality, and professionalism to every show. Their genre varies from the top 40s to classic rock, hip hop, ’90s, and more.
Starting on November 30, Sandi and the surrounding area will feature synchronized nightly music and light shows through December 31 from 6 – 10 p.m. (shows will be extended on New Year’s Eve through midnight). Shows start on the quarter hour except during special events.
Save the Date forHoliday in Paradisespecialevents, including:
Screen on the Green |Friday, December 8 from 7 – 10 p.m. | Holiday-themed movie TBD | FREE on the Great Lawn
Sandi and Santa’s Annual Pancake Breakfast|Saturday, December 16 from 9:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. | visit wpb.org/events for ticket info
Sunday on the Waterfront featuring the Aloha Islanders|Sunday, December 17 from 4 – 7 p.m. | FREE on the Great Lawn
New Year’s Eve |Sunday, December 31 from 6 p.m. – midnight | Ring in the New Year in style with Sandi and friends with extra music and light shows.
Screen on the Green
Second Friday of the month (November 10), 7 – 9 p.m.
Waterfront – The Great Lawn | 100 N. Clematis Street, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
The youngest of King Triton’s daughters, Ariel, is a beautiful and spirited young mermaid with a thirst for adventure. Longing to learn more about the world beyond the sea, Ariel visits the surface and falls for the dashing Prince Eric. Following her heart, she makes a deal with the evil sea witch, Ursula, to experience life on land.
SUNNY 107.9 Tribute Seriesat Sunday on the Waterfront
Third Sunday of the month (November 19), 4 – 7 p.m.
Meyer Amphitheatre | 104 Datura Street, West Palm Beach, Florida 33401
Switch Back to the’80s (’80sPop Covers) |Visit Website
Switch Back to the ’80s is ALL about the ’80s. From the music to the costumes and décor, the band has perfected the sights and sounds of the ’80s. The band has opened for some greatest ’80s bands like Tears for Fears, Loverboy, Rick Springfield, Night Ranger, The Romantics, Berlin, and STYX.
###
About the City of West Palm Beach: The City of West Palm Beach is a vibrant and dynamic City located on the Atlantic coast of Florida. With a rich history, a thriving arts and cultural scene, and a commitment to sustainability, the City of West Palm Beach is a great place to live, work, and play. As one of the three largest cities making up the South Florida region, and the central City of Palm Beach County, West Palm Beach is a vibrant, growing, waterfront City that offers the business advantages available in the region, combined with a more refined and relaxed environment for living and working. To learn more about the City of West Palm Beach, visit us on our official website, or follow us on our social media: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and/or Linked-in.
All events are subject to change. Attendees should check the City’s website,wpb.org/events, to confirm the most up-to-date information.
Here’s our AW NewsSpot video about Chef Jeremy Hanlon at Benny’s on the Beach! He’s interviewed by sculptor/artist Norman Gitzen. It’s brought to you by the beautiful agrihood community Arden and Raymond James financial planner Victor Connor. Video produced by SharpShooter Marketing Group along with AroundWellington.com.
By Denise Marsh. Photos by Frank Koester, Town-Crier Newspaper.
How many times in your life have you been offered a FREE ticket to see an absolute masterpiece of a show? The public was fortunate enough to be gifted tickets to see Jaycie Cohen’s T.A.P. production of “School of Rock” for three limited performances. This 2003 movie adapted to a screen play is based on Jack Black’s character “Fin,” who is thrown out of his bar band and is desperately seeking work. Fin accepts a job as a substitute music teacher in an elite elementary school, where he is challenged by parents, teachers, students and Principal Mullins.
Jaycie Cohen’s rendition of “Dewey Finn” is a comical and wacky interpretation of Black’s performance; everything from mannerisms, appearance, style and wit are displayed to a tee. With Cohen also serving as TAP’s artistic director, this cast is held together tightly with precision and an air of confidence.
We meet Dewey goofing off with this bar band, trying to “steal the show” while his band members give him the cold shoulder. (“I’m Too Hot for you”). He simply does not “fit in” and yet he puts on a great air of self-confidence to hide all of his insecurities.
Dewey’s roommates, Ned and Patty (Kole Rosin and Patty Di Marco) are fed up with his laissez-faire attitude about life as they work hard to pay for bills and their home. The rent is due, and Dewey gives excuses on “giving it a later time” but he’s run out of “time” and the band has thrown him out. The couple encourages him to get another job or “get out” once and for all.
The real action begins when Dewey is offered a substitute teaching position at Horace Green, one of the top private elementary schools. This would’ve been the perfect job…if Dewey had ever taught before. He figures “how hard could it be to teach kids?” Anyone could do It, he assumes, unaware of the challenges that lay ahead.
Jaycie Cohen as Dewey Finn, talking to Principal Mullins (Dorothy Romano)
Horace Green student excellence and discipline are not expected but assumed (“Here at Horace Green”): Dewey must simply “do the job” to get the rent money and then he can leave (or so he thinks). Mrs. Mullins (Dorothy Romano) is brilliant as the stern principal of the school whose main focus is to “make the parents smile” has her playful side exhibiting a love for the artist, Stevie Nicks (“Where did the Rock Go?”).
The students of Horace Green are brilliantly played by 16 actors as young as 7 years old, each pulling their weight to create an air of snobby, entitled, rich kids who have no time for a teacher who doesn’t know how to teach anything but Rock & Roll. Dewey evokes a strong front, poking fun at the powers that be and makes hysterical, out of this world references to the origins of Thanksgiving stating, “that’s the day that George Washington crossed the Delaware and tells the kids that Ozzy Osbourne didn’t learn math.”
One of the highlights of the play was when Dewey explains to the kids that they are learning all wrong, that the don’t need textbooks, charts or tests to learn; history is about learning rock and roll and says, “that is what we will be learning.” (“Stick it to the man”). He gets the kids to focus on learning about rock composers like Zeppelin, Hendrix and Osbourne and has them study to learn how to channel their energy. The kids get angry and vent to Dewey about their parents’ high expectations and how they can’t meet them.
Dewey has many challenges in his role of the substitute teacher: proving that he is fit to teach at the school with parents who consider him to be a jokester and a principal that worries for the welfare of her students. But the greatest challenge Dewey has is raising the self-esteem of students who have given up on themselves due to “not fitting in” and not being able to excel. Glad I brought tissues for the very emotional scene where the kids sang “If only you would listen” sending out a message to their parents and the world that they are real people with real families, and no one is valuing them or their thoughts.
Zack (Melodie Romano), Lawrence, (Jake Singer) and Tomika (Rachelle Beauboeaf) and three major characters in the play; students dealing with issues of shyness, insecurity, and not fitting in. Dewey makes them members of his band (“You’re in the band) to remedy their insecurities. He helps Tomika speak up when she is not part of the band and to assert herself.
In Act 2 of the show, Dewey gets the kids excited about learning Rock & Roll, explaining to them that they will be members of his band. He lets them pick out the name, “School of rock” and tells them that all of their hard work and training will get them to win the competition in the Battle of the Bands. Dewey faces yet another challenge when principal Mullins won’t bend on the rule of “subs cannot do field trips.” In a clever charade to win over the principal, Dewey finds out that Mullins has a weakness for Stevie Nicks. He sets up a plan to woo her on a “date” and they have “adult beverages.” They agree that this was a “secret meeting”, and that Dewey would never talk about how she could be soft and even “fun” (Where did the Rock go?). Dewey plays the hit Stevie song on the juke box, ‘like the one we knew’ and a drunk Mullins sings the verses reliving her younger, freer days and agrees to help Dewey go on the field trip with the kids to perform in Battle of the Bands.
In the denouement of the show, Dewey is exposed as a “fraud” to the faculty and his students. He goes into a funk and his carefree attitude turns sullen and depressed. The set builders (parents of Tap) and musical director Dorothy Romano set the perfect symphony, boosting Dewey’s self-confidence and expressing their gratitude towards him by huddling together and singing “If only you would listen “reprise. The symbiotic relationship amongst Dewey and his students brings everyone on equal footing and shows that “real lessons” were learned here.
The finale brings us to the scene where the parents have finally accepted their kids’ talents and dreams and agree to them going on the field trip to be in the Battle of the Bands”. Although the kids don’t win the “battle” they have won a greater “battle” and they will continue to “rock on.”
If you weren’t lucky enough to catch this funny and heartwarming presentation, find out when Tap Productions is putting on their next show – it was the most inspiring thing I have seen in a long, long time.
SOUTH FLORIDA — The gooiest day of the year – National Cheese Pizza Day – is rolling into town on September 5.
One of the most popular dishes in the world, pizza dates back thousands of years, as flatbreads with toppings were common amongst ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans. However, the modern pizza that we celebrate this September was born on the western coast of Italy.
Today, cheese pizza is the number one most ordered pizza ingredient in the United States, and for good reason. The classic dish pairs dough with sweet marinara sauce and creamy mozzarella cheese for a simple, reliable, and delectable taste.
Celebrate National Cheese Pizza Day at:
City Cellar Wine Bar & Grill
City Cellar serves Mediterranean-inspired fare in an airy space with a floor-to-ceiling glass wine cellar and patio. For National Cheese Pizza Day, the Cellar Pizza ($15.50) with San Marzano tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese is a local favorite. Snag a seat at the bar during happy hour, 4-7 p.m., and enjoy half-priced pizza and $2 off drinks.
City Cellar is located in The Square at 700 S. Rosemary Ave., Second Floor, West Palm Beach. For more information, call (561) 366-0071 or visit citycellarwpb.com.
Louie Bossi’s Italian Ristorante
Louie Bossi’s is an Italian restaurant known for brunch, lunch, and dinner. Pick up or dine in on National Cheese Pizza Day and celebrate with their Pizza Margherita, which contains fior di latte, basil, evoo, and sea salt for $18.50. Pair this pie with one of the wines from their extensive wine list.
Louie Bossi’s is located at 100 E. Palmetto Park Rd., Boca Raton; 1032 E. Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale. For more information, call (561) 336-6699 (Boca Raton) or (954) 356-6699 (Fort Lauderdale) or visit louiebossi.com.
Elisabetta’s Ristorante
Elisabetta’s is Louie Bossi’s sister restaurant. A traditional Italian menu is complemented by a robust wine list at this restaurant and pizzeria. For an elevated classic, order up the Pizza Margherita D.O.P. ($21.50), which features fresh mozzarella di bufala, basil, evoo, and sea salt.
Elisabetta’s is located at 32 E. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach; 185 Banyan Blvd., West Palm Beach. For more information, call (561) 560-6699 (Delray Beach) or (561) 342-6699 (West Palm Beach) or visit elisabettas.com.
Pizza Cucinova
Treat yourself to an Italian escape via Pizza Cucinova at The Mall at Wellington Green. The Neapolitan-style Margherita pizza ($11.99) topped with classic red sauce, sliced mozzarella, basil, and extra virgin olive oil, is the perfect, post-shopping treat.
Pizza Cucinova is located at 10300 Forest Hill Blvd., Second Floor, Wellington. For more information, call (561) 641-6800.
California Pizza Kitchen
Tucked inside The Mall at Wellington Green, California Pizza Kitchen is famed for its chewy, thin-crust pizza and fresh, nontraditional toppings. The signature cheese pizza ($16.99) with homemade tomato sauce and fresh mozzarella cheese (choice of hand tossed, cauliflower, and crispy thin crust) will have you speaking in tongues by the last bite. And young chefs can make their own pizza creations with CPK’s Build-Your-Own Kids Cheese Pizza Kits ($5) which come with par-baked dough, mozzarella, and pizza sauce.
California Pizza Kitchen is located at 10300 Forest Hill Blvd., First Floor, Wellington. For more information, call (561) 793-1601 or visit cpk.com.
