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AWARD-WINNING ARTISTS COMPETE AT LIGHTHOUSE ARTCENTER’S 12TH ANNUAL PLEIN AIR FESTIVAL MARCH 2 – 8

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AWARD-WINNING ARTISTS COMPETE AT LIGHTHOUSE ARTCENTER’S 12TH ANNUAL PLEIN AIR FESTIVAL MARCH 2 – 8

Experience the magic of outdoor painting through live painting competitions, artist demonstrations, workshops, and fresh art for sale

Tequesta, Fla., (January 31, 2024) – Lighthouse ArtCenter’s 12th Annual Plein Air Festival returns March 2 – 8, 2025, uniting thirty internationally acclaimed plein air artists to compete for over $15,000 in cash and prizes. This celebrated event invites the public to experience the beauty of outdoor painting with free artist demonstrations, events, and the opportunity to purchase freshly painted works throughout the week at Lighthouse ArtCenter, 373 Tequesta Drive, Tequesta, FL 33469. For a full schedule of events, visit lighthousearts.org/pleinair-2025/.

“Plein air painting captures what no photograph ever can—the energy, atmosphere, and true essence of a moment. The warmth of the sun, the crispness of a breeze, or the calm of a perfect morning flows directly from the artist’s brush onto the canvas, bringing the scene to life in a way that is both immediate and timeless,” said Lighthouse ArtCenter’s Executive Director, Jeni Licata.

Festival Highlights Include:

Paint Out Competition (March 2, 9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.) Kicking off the festival, professional and amateur artists will gather at the iconic Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse to paint in a fast-paced, two-hour timed event. Over $2,000 in prizes will be awarded, and the completed works will be available for purchase immediately following the competition. Attendees receive discounted admission of $10 to the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse when they mention the LAC Plein Air Festival.

Daily Plein Air Painting and Demonstrations (Monday -Thursday, March 3 – 6): Award-winning artists will paint stunning local scenes across Palm Beach and Martin Counties. From “Old Florida” landscapes to picturesque coastlines and iconic landmarks, the public is invited to watch these masters at work. Free, scheduled artist demonstrations will take place at Sewall’s Point Park, Riverbend Park, Dubois Park, and Juno Beach Pier. For the full schedule, visit lighthousearts.org/pleinair-2025, and follow real-time updates on Instagram @lighthouseartcenter.

Artists’ Reception and Small Works Sale (Wednesday, March 5, 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.) Meet the artists, enjoy light bites, and browse the LAC gallery to purchase artwork. Visitors can also shop the Small Works Sale, featuring 8″ x 8″ pieces by participating artists, perfect for collectors of all levels. Admission is free.

Collectors’ Party & Sale (Friday, March 7, 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.): This special evening at Lighthouse ArtCenter offers attendees the opportunity to purchase freshly painted, one-of-a-kind artworks. Guests will enjoy signature hors d’oeuvres and refreshments while mingling with artists and fellow collectors. Admission is free.

Battle of the Brushes (Saturday, March 8, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.): This lively finale is the last day to purchase festival paintings and features a live painting competition at Lighthouse ArtCenter where top artists go head-to-head in a timed relay-style painting event. All competition art will be on display. Admission is free.

Artist Mary Garrish will be this year’s judge. She is celebrated for her evocative seascapes and coastal scenes. With a background as an ENT surgeon, Garrish discovered her passion for plein air painting through workshops with masters like Scott Christensen and Matt Smith. Her career has since flourished, with residencies at Everglades National Park and teaching engagements in France and Italy. Known for her representational style, she captures the ever-changing atmosphere in her work, inspiring artists and collectors alike.

Special Workshops:

Two Plein Air workshops are available for artists looking to refine their skills:

Mark Shasha’s “Bringing Exciting Light into Your Paintings” (February 25 – 26): Learn to enhance light and atmosphere in your work with techniques developed over Shasha’s 40-year career. Stephen Wysocki’s “Paint Cows! And Other Farm Animals” (February 27 – 28): Practice painting livestock on-site at a local farm, followed by studio work to complete your pieces.

Participating Artists:

Andreeva, Natalia – Tallahassee, FL

Anderson, Marc – Door County, WI

Agrawal, Harsh – London, UK

Ayres, Pam – Tequesta, FL

Brauer, Lon – Granite City, IL

Bretzke, Carl – Minneapolis, MN

Brown, Krystal – Spring, TX

Cedrone, Eli – Boston, MA

Cusick, Lori – Dallas, TX

Denis, Kathleen – Palm Beach Shores, FL

Farnsworth, Bill – Venice, FL

Frisk, Gary – Houston, TX

Ganoung Ruiz, Kari – Interlaken, NY

Guernsey, John – Georgia

Hammond, Kathy – Texas

Hunter, Lizzie – Miami, FL

Hughes, Neal – Medford, NJ

Maldonado, Carlos – Iowa City, IA

Papa, Ralph – Boca Raton, FL

Pisano, Crista – Nyack, NY

Roberts, Robin – Ashland, OH

Sander, Manon – Tequesta, FL

Savellano, David – Alameda, CA

Shasha, Mark – Swampscott, MA

Sneary, Richard – Missouri

Steiner, Jeff – Minneapolis, MN

Tomova Clark, Lyudmila – New York, NY

Wysocki, Stephen – Armstrong Creek, WI

Widgeren, LuAnn – Holmes Beach, FL

Ramar, Antwan – Central FL

All paintings can be viewed and available for purchase Lighthouse ArtCenter Gallery throughout the week from 9 am- 6 pm. 

About Lighthouse ArtCenter:

Lighthouse ArtCenter Gallery & School of Art is 501c(3) not-for-profit founded in 1964 by eight artists and Christopher Norton. The ArtCenter is dedicated to the visual arts whose mission is to inspire, engage and connect our community through a vibrant school of art, unique exhibitions and diverse special events. The center has grown into a three-building campus consisting of a Gallery & 2D Studio, 3D Studio, and a Jewelry & Textile Studio. Supported by memberships, tuition, grants, and donations, Lighthouse ArtCenter serves over 20,000 visitors, 3000 students, 45 faculty members, 400 summer art campers, and a comprehensive outreach program to benefit under-served populations. For more information visit https://www.lighthousearts.org.

Facebook: @lighthousearts.org

Instagram: @lighthouseartcenter

Calendar Listing:

March 2 – 8, 2025

Lighthouse ArtCenter’s 12th Annual Plein Air Festival features thirty of the world’s best award-winning artists competing for cash prizes as they paint iconic local landscapes in Palm Beach and Martin County “en plein air” (in the open air). The festival includes free artist demonstrations, live events, workshops and freshly painted artwork for purchase. Paintings will be displayed and available for purchase throughout the week at Lighthouse ArtCenter Gallery, 373 Tequesta Drive, Tequesta, FL 33469. For a list of participating artists and a full schedule of events, visit lighthousearts.org/pleinair-2025.

Host of Hit National PBS Television Series GardenFit Madeline deVries Hooper

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Host of Hit National PBS Television Series GardenFit Madeline deVries Hooper

Coming to Mounts Botanical Garden of Palm Beach County to Present

‘Get GardenFit’ Series

February 15, March 16, and April 5, 2025

9:30 am – 10:30 am

(West Palm Beach, FL – January 31, 2025) – The host of the hit national PBS television series GardenFit, Madeline deVries Hooper, is bringing her techniques for gardening without stressing your body to Mounts Botanical Garden of Palm Beach County.

Mounts Botanical is hosting a three-month series taking place live at the Garden on February 15, March 16, and April 5.

During each visit, Madeline will demonstrate simple, body awareness adjustments that will prevent aches and pains from bending, lifting, and even getting up and down from the ground as you weed, dig, plant, and prune. She believes that gardening should be a joyful and pain-free experience. You can attend one or all of the “Get GardenFit” sessions.

“You don’t want to miss this chance to get inspired, get moving, and learn important techniques on how to manage your body while gardening,” says Mounts Botanical Garden Executive Director James May.

“Our bodies are our most important gardening tool,” says Madeline deVries Hooper. “I am passionate about helping gardeners take care of their bodies while taking care of their gardens, and what better place to share this with the Palm Beaches than at Mounts Botanical Garden.”

GardenFit, the hit national public television series, offers a new approach to gardening, based on the premise that gardening should be a joy and not painful. It’s a first-of-its-kind fusion of garden tours and self-care, teaching viewers how to take care of their body while taking care of their garden. The show brings together themes of nature, sustainability, and wellness in a delightfully engaging format.

EVENT DETAILS:

ABOUT MADELINE DEVRIES HOOPER

After a trailblazing public relations career that included creating and building the leading marketing-PR firm DeVries Global, and then a career as a ballroom dance competitor and teacher, Madeline deVries Hooper immersed herself in the world of gardening. She was invited to become a trustee of the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and then of the Berkshire Botanical Garden, where she has been Vice Chair for the past 10 years. She has visited many of the finest gardens in the United States and Europe, and developed relationships with leading horticulturalists, garden designers, and plantspeople. However, her passion for gardening left her with many aches and pains. A friend recommended she work with a personal trainer and she learned new techniques and exercises to relieve her pain and enable her to garden more enjoyably and productively. These newfound habits were the inspiration for the GardenFit television show and workshop program. Madeline and her husband live in Columbia County, New York, where for the past 30 years they have devoted themselves to maintaining Rockland Farm, a 10-acre garden they created from scratch.

EXPLORE MOUNTS BOTANICAL GARDEN

Mounts Botanical Garden is open to the public Tuesday through Sunday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (last entry at 3:00 PM).

  • Admission:
    • $20 for adults
    • $18 for seniors, college students, and military with IDs
    • $13 for ages 6-17
    • FREE for children under 6, Mounts members, and RAP (reciprocal program) members
  • Location: 531 North Military Trail, West Palm Beach, FL 33415
  • For more info:  www.mounts.org

CURRENTLY ON EXHIBIT: RIBBIT THE EXHIBIT II BY ARTIST ANDY COBB

Back by popular demand, this collection of 18 larger-than-life, whimsical frog sculptures is on display throughout the Garden. Handcrafted by artist Andy Cobb, these sculptures create playful and imaginative explorations of amphibians while offering engaging programming about real frogs and their vital role in the ecosystem.

ABOUT MOUNTS BOTANICAL GARDEN OF PALM BEACH COUNTY

With a mission to inspire and educate through nature, Mounts Botanical Garden is Palm Beach County’s oldest and largest botanical garden. Spanning 20 acres, the Garden features an acclaimed collection of 25 unique garden areas with more than 7,000 species of tropical and sub-tropical plants, including Florida natives, exotic fruit trees, palms, and bromeliads. Mounts Botanical Garden is part of the Palm Beach County Cooperative Extension Department, in partnership with the University of Florida and the non-profit Friends of Mounts Botanical Garden.

FEBRUARY HAPPENINGS:

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FEBRUARY HAPPENINGS:

Kimono Culture, Furoshiki: The Art of Japanese Fabric Wrapping,
and the Film Screening: Touch at
Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens

February workshops, classes, and demonstrations:
Saturday, Feb. 1
The Art of Kokedama
Time: 10am – 12:30pm or 2pm – 4:30pm
Cost: $65 Advance Registration Required
Kokedama is the Japanese art of growing plants in a moss-covered ball of soil. It is wrapped with string
and contains an ornamental plant growing inside. These beautiful and decorative plants, brings an
organic and natural touch to planting orchids, succulents, and other ornamental plants. Learn the
mechanics of how to make kokedama, creating two regular size and one small one to decorate your home
or to give away to a special person.
Saturday, Feb. 1
Kimono Culture
Time: 11am & 2:30pm
Cost: $5 with paid admission to the museum
Not all kimonos are created equal!  Learn about the traditional iconic kimono, with its rich culture,
seasonal subtleties, and symbolic nuances. Observe a demonstration on how to properly wear and put on
a kimono. Learn about the elegance of the formal kimono with its exquisite designs and finery worn to
attend weddings, parties, special celebrations, and holidays.
Saturday, Feb. 1
Family Fun: Flower Keychains
Time: 12pm – 3pm
Cost: FREE for members or with paid museum admission. No Reservation Required
Enjoy the flowers of the season by creating your own pressed flower keychain!
Sundays, Feb. 2, 16
Sado: Tea Ceremony
Time: Beginners – 10:15am – 12:15pm*
Intermediate – 1pm – 3pm
Cost: $60 (Morikami Members $55) Advance Registration Required
Expand upon your knowledge of Japanese tea ceremony in this hands-on class. Perform traditional
Japanese tea ceremony, with its ever-evolving seasonal subtleties, in the authentic Seishin-an Tea House
under the guidance of instructor Yoshiko Hardick. The tea ceremony changes from month to month and
from season to season. Intermediate course requires approval by the instructor before registering.
*Sunday Beginner’s II Class Prerequisite – You must have already taken a Thursday beginner’s I class
session or a workshop to attend Sunday classes.

Tuesdays, Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25
Ikebana Flower Arrangement- Ikenobo School
Time: Beginners – 11am – 1pm
Intermediate – 1:15pm – 3:15pm*
Cost: $90 (Morikami Members $80) Advance Registration Required
Intermediate courses are for students with prior experience or have taken at least three sessions of Ikebana classes. Flower arranging, ikebana, is a traditional Japanese art form spanning centuries. Ikebana has various different schools of study, each with unique philosophies and aesthetics. Dating back to the 15th century, the Ikenobo School is the oldest and most traditional. Students in this course learn the basic principles and style of Ikenobo, creating fresh flower arrangements each week to take home and enjoy. Wednesdays, Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26 Ikebana Flower Arrangement: Sogetsu School Time: Beginners – 10:30am – 12:30pm Intermediate – 1:30pm – 3:30pm
Cost: $90 (Morikami Members $80) Advance Registration Required
Flower arranging, ikebana, is a traditional Japanese art form spanning centuries. Ikebana has various
different schools of study, each with unique philosophies and aesthetics. The Sogetsu School is a
contemporary school which focuses on the creativity and individuality of ikebana. The idea is
that ikebana can be done by anyone, anywhere, with almost anything. Students will learn the basics of
Sogetsu and create pieces each week to take home and enjoy. *Intermediate courses are for students with
prior experience.
Thursdays, Feb. 6, 20
Sado: Tea Ceremony
Time: Beginners – 10:15am – 12:15pm
Intermediate – 1pm – 3pm
Cost: $60 (Morikami Members $55) Advance Registration Required
Expand upon your knowledge of Japanese tea ceremony in this hands-on class. Perform traditional
Japanese tea ceremony, with its ever-evolving seasonal subtleties, in the authentic Seishin-an Tea House
under the guidance of instructor Yoshiko Hardick. The tea ceremony changes from month to month and
from season to season. Intermediate course requires approval by the instructor before registering.


Saturday, Feb. 8
Sado: The Way of Tea
Time: 12pm, 1:30pm or 3pm
Cost: $5 with paid museum admission.
Observe Japanese sadō, an ever-changing demonstration rich in seasonal subtleties. Your involvement in
the true spirit of sadō — harmony (wa), reverence (kei), purity (sei), tranquility (jaku) — along with a sip
of matcha green tea and a sweet will help you bring a calm perspective into your busy life.


Sundays, Feb. 9, 16, 23, Mar. 2, 9
The Art of Bonsai
Time: Beginners – 12:30pm – 3:30pm
Intermediate – 9am – 12pm
Cost: $100 (Morikami Members $90) Advance Registration Required
Bonsai means “a tree in a tray.” The art of bonsai creates the illusion of age and maturity of a tree which
has developed and sustained the effects of nature for many years. Students of bonsai learn to artfully trim
and train a tree in a container.

Saturday, Feb. 15
Furoshiki: The Art of Japanese Fabric Wrapping
Time: 10am – 12pm or 1:30pm – 3:30pm
Cost: $35 Advance Registration Required
People have used furoshiki, a square reusable wrapping cloth, since the 16 th century in a variety of ways
to wrap different sized and shaped objects. Learn how to wrap a wine bottle, a watermelon, books, and
make a tote bag from a furoshiki.


Thursday, Feb. 20
Karesansui: Raking Demonstration
Time: 10:30am
Cost: FREE with paid museum admission. No Reservation Required
Karesansui or dry landscape garden, is founded on Zen ideology using carefully composed rock
arrangements and gravel or sand.  A karesansui is carefully raked to represent characteristics of water
such as currents and waves while boulder arrangements may be interpreted as islands.  Learn about our
Late Rock Garden and observe how the raking can be a practice in mindfulness and meditation.


Saturday, Feb. 22
Shibori Indigo – Apron
Time: 10am – 3pm
Cost: $75 Advance Registration Required
The use of indigo dye, or aizome, has a long and cherished history in Japan. The deep blue colors for
which Japanese textiles are celebrated come from the leaves of the tade ai, a plant introduced to Japan
from China in the sixth century. Shibori is a Japanese technique of manual resist dyeing used to make
patterns on fabrics. Learn various shibori techniques and cook in style by making your own shibori apron
to wear.


Saturdays, Feb. 22, Mar. 1, 8, 15, 22
Japanese Traditional Music: Koto
Time: Beginners – 10:30am – 12:30pm
Cost: $155 (Morikami Members $150) Advance Registration Required
The Koto is a traditional Japanese stringed instrument first introduced to Japan from China in the 7th-8th
centuries. Learn about the history, culture, and techniques in how to play this exquisite instrument in this
5-week course. Instruments will be provided for participants to use in the class.


Friday, Feb. 28
Film Screening: Touch
Underwritten by Linda and Michael Sonnenreich
Time: 7pm
(121 mins., 2024, Rated R, Romance, Drama) (In Japanese, subtitled in English)
Cost: $7 (Members $5)
A romantic and thrilling story that spans several decades and continents, Touch follows one man’s
emotional journey to find his first love who disappeared 50 years ago…before his time runs out.
Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens is located at 4000 Morikami Park Road, Delray Beach. For more
information, call (561) 495-0233 or visit morikami.org.

Wellington Bay and Lisbet Health Center Host 

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Wellington Bay and Lisbet Health Center Host 

Successful Liberty Games Qualifying Event

Wellington, FL: Independent and Assisted Living community Wellington Bay recently hosted a thrilling Liberty Games qualifying event from January 20-24, 2025. 

The event culminated in a closing ceremony on January 24th, celebrating the impressive achievements of the participating senior athletes.

Cele Cohen emerged as the top female athlete, securing first place in women’s seated bowling, shuffleboard, half-mile walk, and ten-lap walk. Michael Hechtman dominated the men’s events, winning first place in seated bowling, half-mile walk, billiards, and the water balloon drop.


Both Cohen and Hechtman, along with other qualifying winners, will be heading to South Bay at Mt. Pleasant retirement community in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina, to compete in the Liberty Senior Living Community Games from March 17-21, 2025. Liberty Senior Living will cover all expenses for the trip, including airfare, hotel accommodations, airport transportation, and meals.

“We are so proud of our athletes and can’t wait to cheer them on at the games in South Carolina,” said Campus Director Jay Mikosch. “The Liberty Games are a great event to showcase the power of an active lifestyle. Here at Wellington Bay, we’re incredibly proud to support these athletes and their dedication to health and wellness. This event truly embodies the vibrant lifestyle we champion, with a focus on staying active, engaged, and connected in our community.” 

Wellington Bay is a rental retirement community featuring luxury apartments and a place for seniors to enjoy life. With something for everyone, Wellington Bay offers independent living that supports a vibrant lifestyle for active aging and also provides assisted living support, respite care, and advanced, cutting-edge memory care at Lisbet Assisted Living and Memory Care, located onsite in Wellington, Florida. Named by Money Magazine as one of the “Best Places to Retire,” Wellington is known for its golf courses, thriving equestrian community, and lovely homes. 

Wellington Bay and Lisbet Assisted Living and Memory Care is owned and operated by Liberty Senior Living, LLC, a Liberty Healthcare Management division specializing in senior living and retirement communities. To learn more about Wellington Bay, visit www.wellingtonbayfl.com. 

To learn more about Liberty Senior Living and the communities they offer, please visit www.LibertySeniorLiving.com.

Happy February and 19 Years of AW!

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Happy February and 19 Years of AW!
The first issue of Around Wellington® Magazine, which came out 19 years ago.

Hello and Happy February to you! This month we celebrate 19 years of AroundWellington.com! It began in February 2006 as a print magazine and grew to an online presence. Come and join us Feb. 10th for our celebration and networking mixer at Village Music & Cafe in Wellington at 5:30pm. Free to attend! There will be vegan cake!

This month see several new articles, including “Teen Talk” by Savannah Hess about her favorite romantic films. Read “Romantic Films, In Honor of Valentine’s Day” and check out her top picks.

And another great writer from the same family, Heidi Hess also writes a Valentine’s-themed story this month for “Mommy Moments.” Check out “A Satisfying Relationship” and see why self-love is so essential.

We’re right in the middle of an exciting equestrian and charitable season as we enter February! Don’t miss Julie Khanna’s story, “You’re Invited to This Season’s Hottest Charitable Events In (or Near) Wellington,” which is in “AW Stories of the Month.”

Also in “AW Stories of the Month” is my restaurant review of Maxwell’s Plum in Wellington. I really enjoyed this delightful dining experience a couple of weeks ago and plan to return soon.

I never know where writer Mike May is going to take us in his journeys around the world and he often surprises us. This month read about his 13-day trip to Scotland. Check out “Experiencing Links Golf – Plus Fish and Chips – in Scotland” in “On the Move with Mike.”

Our “Cultural Corner” writer Denise Marsh gets in depth with musical artist and performer Spider Cherry. Nathan Mercado aka “Spider Cherry” is truly talented and known locally for his playing two keyboards at once and his improvisational style.

In “Ask the Docs,” Gianna Picard takes us to DRIP BaR, discovering programs for enhancing sexual libido, just in time for Valentine’s Day. Read “Revitalize Your Passion This Valentine’s Day with the DRIP BaR Royal Palm Beach’s Vitality Drip Therapy for Increased Libido.”

One of our sponsors, Cugini Winery, is proud to offer a new venue this month, in addition to their current venue. Both are located inside the Polo Club in Wellington. Visit The Cellar at Palm Beach Polo, seven days a week, noon to midnight each day. Read about it before you go.

Thanks to all of our sponsors, as always. And thanks to our writers and photographers. And of course, thanks to you, our dear readers. Have a Happy February!

Krista Martinelli

Editor

AroundWellington.com

AW in Pictures – February

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AW in Pictures – February
Loren Russo, Joe Simon, and Jennifer Picciolo at The Cellar, a new wine and cigar venue opening this month inside the Polo Club in Wellington

ManateeFest happening February 1st. Read more about it in “News & Events.”
Joe Barry Memorial Polo match. Photo by Alan Fabricant.
Chefs Stephanie and Richard of Maxwell’s Plum. See Restaurant Review in “AW Stories of the Month.”

Romantic Films, In Honor of Valentine’s Day

Savannah Hess
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Romantic Films, In Honor of Valentine’s Day

By Savannah Hess

Hello everyone! Good to chat with you all again. And, of course, happy 2025! Today I wanted to chat with you about some of my favorite romance movies. February is the month of love after all, which appeals to everyone from teenaged romantics (yep, I was one) to cynics alike. So why not take a look at some of my personal favorite romantic films, in honor of Valentine’s Day? Please remember these are only my favorites and you’re encouraged to disagree. All right, let’s get into it! 

My first pick is the iconic masterpiece that is The Princess Bride. This isn’t just my favorite romance movie, it’s my favorite movie of all time. And one of the few cases where the movie was better than the book. I just adore this movie. There are so many quotable lines, to start. “Inconceivable,” “Have fun storming the castle,”  “Anybody want a peanut?”, “As you wish”, and of course “Hello. My name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die.” Additionally, the movie is set in my favorite time period, the Middle Ages. There are some extremely gorgeous locations as backdrops for the film, which makes sense when you find out a lot of the movie was shot in England and Ireland. I enjoy the way the story is told, too, as the story is relayed through a grandfather reading it to his grandson. A lot of the funniest bits are when the grandson interrupts the grandfather while he’s reading. I’ll always remember the line, “Is this a kissing book?” And of course, the romance. It’s a classic one, and the chemistry between Cary Elwes and Robin Wright is immaculate. The movie pokes fun at a lot of fairy tale tropes, and is at times, an obvious satire. But that doesn’t make me love it any less. This movie has it all – a stellar cast, brilliant acting, wonderful characters, and, (no this doesn’t make a movie by any means), the best sword fight on film. 

My second pick is Pride and Prejudice 2005. Sorry, the incredible 1995 miniseries won’t be making this list. This is a more recent adaptation, but doesn’t try to seem “mOdErN” like other adaptations (cough cough Persuasion 2022 cough). Once again, the chemistry between the main pair, Elizabeth (Keira Knightley) and Mr. Darcy (Matthew Macfayden) is off the charts. I was considering putting Atonement on this list, as I enjoy that movie as well, but it’s not a great film if you’re looking for a classic and sweet romance. Which is precisely what Pride and Prejudice 2005 is. Much of Jane Austen’s subtle wit isn’t lost in this adaptation. The costumes also shine here, too, as made by the amazing Jacqueline Durran. One of my favorites is Elizabeth’s Netherfield ball dress. Though The Princess Bride is my favorite movie of all time, Pride and Prejudice is my favorite book. And this adaptation is so lovely. The cinematography is gorgeous, too, with one of my favorite shots being of Elizabeth writing “Dear Jane” on a piece of parchment. And the rain scene – an unexpected but welcome change to the same scene in the book. This movie has truly bewitched me, body and soul. 

Anyway, that’s all I have for you this time. Have an awesome Valentine’s Day, and I’ll talk to you soon! Bye for now.

TikTok is Making Hips Hip

Julie Khanna
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TikTok is Making Hips Hip

Here Are the Do’s and Don’ts from Dr. Jonathan Shaw, Local Hip and Knee Surgeon at Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute

By Gianna Picard

Some users on TikTok claim that hip stretches can help release built-up trauma and improve overall well-being. Well, different types of hip stretches have various benefits for the body – this is if you’re doing them right! Thankfully, Dr. Jonathan Shaw, a local orthopedic surgeon who specializes in hip and knee conditions at the Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute, is sharing his expert insights on the TikTok trend – stretches involving hip flexors, how to properly perform these stretches, and what effect each has on the body. Dr. Shaw has listed out some of the popular stretches below with some “Do’s” and “Don’t’s”.

Dynamic Hip Stretches: These particular stretches involve repetitive movements that gradually increase the range of motion in your hips. Dynamic hip stretches are great for warming up before a workout and improving both mobility and flexibility. Examples include:

  • Walking Lunges
    • Do: Pay attention to form, ensuring your back is straight with your knee centered over the foot. Also, maintain an upright posture by engaging your core muscles.
    • Don’t: Let your knees go past your toes when engaging in this stretch. Poor form will increase the likelihood of your hips dropping too low and can result in discomfort. 
  • Hip Circles
    • Do: Stand with your feet in alignment with your shoulders, flex your core, and rotate your hips in a circular motion. Start with small circles and make them bigger gradually. If pain occurs when progressing, then it is highly encouraged to stop.
    • Don’t: Overstretch during rotational movements. Overstretching is likely to occur for those who have tight hips. This can lead to torn muscles and further damage. 
  • Butterfly Stretch
    • Do: Sit on the floor with the heels of your feet touching each other and stabilize yourself with your legs and hip bones. Make sure your spine is straight and your chin is tucked in. Inhale to elongate your spine and exhale your body down, touching your head to your feet.
    • Don’t: Force your knees to touch the ground, bounce your knees excessively, put tension on the lower back by arching, or push against your existing range of motion.

Hip Flexor Stretches: Especially useful for those who spend long hours sitting, these stretches help relieve tightness and discomfort in the hip flexor muscles. Examples include:

  • Kneeling Hip Flexor Stretch
    • Do: Kneel on the knee you feel comfortable stretching on and put the other leg straight in front of you. Keeping your back straight, slowly push your hips forward until you feel the tension in your hip flexors being released from the knee that is on the ground. 
    • Don’t: Arch your lower back and allow the pelvis to become unstable. Arching your back will not properly carry out the stretch, leaving the hip flexors unaffected and instead creating pressure on the lower back.
  • Pigeon Pose – a yoga pose for hip flexibility
    • Do: Begin in a downward-facing dog position and shift your weight forward, bringing your right knee toward your right wrist. Slide your right foot towards the left and flex your right toes. Slide your left leg backward, extending it straight. Ensure your hips are parallel to each other and are facing to the front. 
    • Don’t: Force your hips too far forward or allow your front knee to rotate out to the side. Pushing the hips too far forward can result in straining the hip joint and excessive pain.

Hip Stretches for Arthritis: Gentle stretches can help maintain range of motion and reduce pain for those with hip arthritis. Types of stretches:

  • Sidelying Hip Abduction
    • Do: Lie on the uninvolved side, with your lower knee bent for stability. Keep the knee straight on the involved leg, lifting the leg upward. Return to the start position and repeat.
    • Don’t: Lean forward or backward. Instead, maintain an upright posture.
  • Knee to Chest
    • Do: Lay down on your back and pull one knee to your chest, slowly. Hold the position for a few seconds and then switch legs.
    • Don’t: Pull your knee aggressively or quickly towards your chest. Doing so can result in pinching within the hip joint.

Dr. Shaw emphasizes that both static and dynamic stretching can be highly beneficial for the body. Understanding the benefits of stretches that you can hold and stretches through movement can help you choose the best approach for your needs.

A Satisfying Relationship  

Heidi Hess
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A Satisfying Relationship  

By Heidi Hess

Well, it’s that time of year. Let’s pull out all the pink and red heart decorations and hope to get struck by an arrow from the fictional winged mini-person in charge of love. Who is this guy, and why did someone give him arrows? Ha. Is it me, or does this holiday feel a little surface? A little superficial? Isn’t it important to show the people closest to us our love daily? Not just once a year with some crappy chocolate and $5 discount roses.

This year I’ll be turning the ripe old age of 52. Now, before you leave, thinking she’s going off on a tangent, I am but it will all make sense. Stay with me. My ladies of a certain age will understand. We get to fifty and are permanently unimpressed by a lot of things and blinded by rage. Why is that? I’ll tell you why. We sacrifice everything for everyone. Now, I know this isn’t the case for everyone. If you are one of those people, congratulations on being able to balance life and still have your needs met. But for the rest of us… it’s hard. 

We make lists of things we need: new sneakers, a haircut, a seven-day cruise to the Caribbean, only to put them aside when our kids, our partners, and our family need something. Ladies, let’s stop doing this. Our needs are just as important (maybe more important). Who takes care of us? We do. And that’s the good news. We take care of ourselves. It’s the ultimate in self-love and probably the most satisfying relationship you will ever have. 

Remember the stewardesses acting out what to do in an emergency on the airplane? They tell us to first put our oxygen masks on and then take care of the other people around us. Doesn’t that make sense? We can’t help people if we are dead. But, why does it have to be an emergency? Guess what – IT DOESN’T! Isn’t that great news? And… it’s not expensive. 

When you wake up, check in with yourself. How are you feeling? Only you know, and only you can do something about it. If you are a mom like me, wake up early, get a walk in, and do some writing. Doing those things first allows me to care for my family and not resent them. My needs have already been met, my cup is full, and I have something to give. 

Another thing you can do is set boundaries. Don’t want to see a toxic family member? Do you feel zapped of energy when you see someone? You don’t have to. Boundaries are a good way of putting your needs first. You are protecting yourself.

Making sure our kids see us modeling those behaviors helps them learn how to treat themselves and how to honor their needs. So, for this Valentine’s Day, be kind to yourself. Love yourself. It may even help you love other people more. 

Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at FAU Hosts New York Times’ Opinion Columnist David Brooks

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Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at FAU Hosts New York Times’ Opinion Columnist David Brooks

Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at Florida Atlantic University will host renowned author, columnist and commentator David Brooks on Wednesday, Feb. 12 and Thursday, Feb. 13, offering attendees a unique opportunity to engage with one of the nation’s most insightful voices on politics, culture and society.

The Feb. 12 lecture will take place at 7 p.m., at the Barry and Florence Friedberg Lifelong Learning Center, 777 Glades Road, building CEH 31D, Boca Raton campus. The Feb. 13 lecture will take place at 4 p.m., at the John D. MacArthur Campus’ OLLI Auditorium, 5353 Parkside Drive, in Jupiter.

Brooks, a distinguished columnist for The New York Times, as well as a regular commentator on PBS NewsHour and NPR’s All Things Considered, has captivated audiences with his keen observations and thought-provoking analysis. He is the author of several bestselling books, including “The Road to Character” and “The Second Mountain,” which explore themes of personal growth, moral wisdom and social responsibility.  Based on his bestselling book “How to Know a Person,” this talk is a guide to becoming a better person, living a more connected and fulfilling life, and repairing the world’s torn social fabric.

“Having David Brooks speak at OLLI is an incredible opportunity for our members and the wider community,” said Jane Morgan, executive director of OLLI at FAU. “His deep understanding of contemporary issues and his ability to connect them with broader historical and philosophical perspectives make him a truly engaging and inspiring speaker.”

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, dedicated to fostering continued intellectual engagement for adults over 50, provides enriching educational opportunities in a vibrant and welcoming environment. This special event aligns with OLLI’s mission to bring thought leaders and distinguished experts to its community of learners.

The event is open to OLLI members and the general public. Seating is limited and advance registration is recommended. Tickets are $60 for OLLI members and $70 for non-members. Same-day tickets, if available, are $70 at the door.

To register, visit olli.fau.edu/ollifau/Course/Course.aspx?c=235. For more information, visit olli.fau.edu/ollifau/

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About Florida Atlantic University:
Florida Atlantic University, established in 1961, officially opened its doors in 1964 as the fifth public university in Florida. Today, the University serves more than 30,000 undergraduate and graduate students across six campuses located along the southeast Florida coast. In recent years, the University has doubled its research expenditures and outpaced its peers in student achievement rates. Through the coexistence of access and excellence, FAU embodies an innovative model where traditional achievement gaps vanish. FAU is designated a Hispanic-serving institution, ranked as a top public university by U.S. News & World Report and a High Research Activity institution by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. For more information, visit www.fau.edu.

About Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, FAU:

Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at Florida Atlantic University is dedicated to enriching the intellectual and social lives of seasoned adult learners by offering stimulating university-level courses, taught by outstanding university faculty and guest lecturers. OLLI courses are designed to broaden students’ understanding of diverse cultural, societal, scientific, and global issues. FAU’s Lifelong Learning Institute is the oldest and largest OLLI in the United States with close to 15,000 program participants and is recognized nationally for its high-quality offerings. Established in 1980 at the FAU Boca Raton campus, the OLLI FAU program was later expanded to the FAU Jupiter Campus in 1997 and the FAU Broward campuses in 2019. For more information visit www.olliboca.fau.edu and www.fau.edu/osherjupiter

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