Hybrid Film Festival Is Premiere Destination for Audiences and Film Community Alike
Boca Raton, FL – (Jan. 31, 2022) – Launched six years ago, the Judy Levis Krug Boca Raton Jewish Film Festival (BRJFF), presented by the Adolph & Rose Levis JCC Sandler Center (Levis JCC Sandler Center), is now considered one of the largest Jewish/Israeli Film Festivals in the country. My Festival, My Way, which runs from February 27 through March 20, is widening access beyond county lines and creating a flexible experience by screening over 80 films both in-person and virtually. Audiences will enjoy a broad array of short and feature length films and documentaries from around the globe, Q&A sessions, and appearances by notable film industry guests. In-person films will be shown at the Cinemark Palace in Boca Raton, Movies of Delray, and Beifield Auditorium at the Levis JCC Sandler Center.
“We are so grateful to loyal supporters like Levis JCC Grand Benefactor Judy Levis Krug who combined her passion for giving back to the community and her love of cinema and storytelling to help create this program,” said Stephanie Owitz, Levis JCC Sandler Center Director of Arts, Culture and Learning. “She remains an integral part of presenting this Festival each year and has inspired others to support as well.” Recently, a generous gift from Billi & Bernie Marcus enabled the Festival to expand, offering Jewish-themed film programming year-round.
“While the way we operate today’s Festival may have changed, our goal remains steadfast,” said Wendy Honig, BRJFF Artistic Director. “We are dedicated to engaging with our audience and expanding their understanding of the Jewish experience and culture, through the diverse perspectives portrayed through our hand-selected films.”
The three-week Festival is anchored by a special guest appearance by famed fashion designer Elie Tahari, who visits on February 23 for a kick-off event in celebration of his documentary, “The United States of Elie Tahari,” directed and produced by David Serero. Other not to be missed films include The Automat, Fiddler’s Journey to the Big Screen, Rose, Persian Lessons, and Image of Victory.
“The Boca Raton Jewish Film Festival now attracts upwards of 3,000 attendees each year and has become a highly-anticipated community event, as well as a respected collaboration with the screening committee, filmmakers, directors, and the film community at-large,” said Lesley Rich, BRJFF Program Director.
A full program guide including dates, showtimes, trailers, a synopsis of each film, Q&A’s and special events are available on bocajff.org. Film packages and Festival Passes are also available for purchase online and range from $59 to $540. As a bonus, all pass holders will receive access to “A Day of Shorts” Program for free. All films can be enjoyed for up to 72 hours after its scheduled time and can be viewed on various platforms by downloading the Eventive TV app which is available on Apple TV, Roku, Firestick and Chromecast, among others.
The Levis JCC Sandler Center takes the health and safety of all of its guests very seriously. COVID-19 protocols are strictly observed. Visit levisjcc.org/culture/ for the most current updates.
For more information, contact Lisa Barash at lisab@bocafed.org or call 561-558-2514. The Levis JCC Sandler Center is located at 21050 95th Avenue S. in Boca Raton.
About the Judy Levis Krug Boca Raton Jewish Film Festival
The mission of the Judy Levis Krug Boca Raton Jewish Film Festival is to provide the newest, most stimulating and thought-provoking films that encourage audiences to expand their awareness and understanding of the Jewish world and engage in dialogue to explore the many diverse perspectives portrayed by the films presented. Due to the generous support from donors Billi & Bernie Marcus, the Festival has been able to expand, offering year-round Jewish-themed film programming.
About the Levis JCC Sandler Center The Levis JCC’s Phyllis & Harvey Sandler Center, which highlights renowned talent from artists and actors to authors and so much more, gives adults of all ages and faiths an opportunity to connect with others who share similar interests in continuing education, travel and social events. Learn more at levisjcc.org/culture.
Riviera Beach, Fla.(February 7, 2022)– The Arc of Palm Beach County will receive $10,000 to help people with developmental disabilities share their creativity. The National Endowment for the Arts honored The Arc with a Challenge America award to fund the MyArtLife project. The program will create virtual and in-person art lessons for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and showcase their artistic talents to the larger community.
“Access to high-quality arts and cultural activities helps individuals to thrive, providing an outlet for the expression of thoughts, emotions, and creativity,” said Kimberly McCarten, The Arc’s president and CEO. “The Arc’s mission is to change the conversation around disabilities, and we are embracing innovative ways to do just that. Art helps us to achieve an appreciation of other’s unique qualities and perspectives, building acceptance and inclusion. We are honored to receive buy-in from the National Endowment for the Arts in support of this vision.”
MyArtLife will provide professional art instruction in different mediums. The finished artwork will be shared with the public through an online art gallery. The project aims to create recognition for people with disabilities as significant contributors to the arts and society at large. MyArtLife will enrich this historically marginalized community and foster opportunities for individuals to flourish.
“The National Endowment for the Arts is proud to support arts projects like this one from The Arc of Palm Beach County that help support the community’s creative economy,” said NEA Acting Chair Ann Eilers. “The Arc is among the organizations nationwide that are using the arts as a source of strength, a path to well-being, and providing access and opportunity for people to connect and find joy through the arts.”
The National Endowment for the Arts is an independent federal agency that supports exemplary arts projects. Its funding gives Americans the opportunity to participate in the arts, exercise their imaginations, and develop their creativity.
The Arc is changing the conversation around disabilities by defying definitions, inspiring possibilities, and improving the lives of the people we serve, their families, and our community. Since 1958, The Arc has envisioned a community where every person feels welcome, connected, and accepted.
Evan Johnson-Blake, Artisan at The Arc of Palm Beach CountyArtwork by Artisans at The Arc of Palm Beach County
America’s Favorite Mindfulness Coach Comes to Mandel Public Library in West Palm Beach on February 20th, 2022
West Palm Beach, FL. – After years of trauma, changes, and stress brought about by the pandemic, Akai Jackson is coming to Mandel Public Library on February 20th 2 PM-3 PM, to teach the power of mindfulness on healthy coping and give actionable techniques to achieve wellness and growth to an auditorium of attendees. Seating is limited.
Akai Jackson, C.E.O. of I Excel Today
Akai Jackson, C.E.O. of I Excel Today, has dedicated his career to helping people create permanent success and growth through mindset shifts. The longtime social entrepreneur’s dynamic approach to health and wellness is the byproduct of formal education, life experience as a decorated athlete, and his own personal journey with mindfulness and growth. Akai earned the title America’s Favorite Mindfulness Coach by BurnAlong– a leading corporate wellness platform– for his transformative, yet gentle, approach toward change. Akai’s work has been featured at organizations such as George Mason University, Club Industry’s Executive Summit, University of Michigan, and now, West Palm Beach, Florida.
“Most of us realize things are different now. The pandemic forced changes upon us, some for the better and some for the worse, but many changes nonetheless. A byproduct of those rapid changes is increased stress, anxiety, and isolation. Emotions begin with the mind, and healthy coping of those emotions is vital now more than ever,” said Jackson.
Beyond bringing to light how common and serious experiencing chronic stress, anxiety, and having an activated fight or flight response, registrants will learn actionable steps that can be implemented immediately. Tools such as curated affirmations, settling the conscious and subconscious mind, and how to begin to think differently will be taught. Participants will also receive a free journal with clear instructions on how to use the journal, intending on helping you get to know yourself deeper.
“People need practical tools that are accessible and within reach. Acknowledging that these emotions exist isn’t enough. We need to counter them, or they will keep us from growing in our physical, mental, emotional, and professional health,” Jackson added.
The Mandel Public Library is the oldest in Palm Beach County, located at 411 Clematis St., West Palm Beach, FL 33401, situated in the trendy robust heart of downtown. The community hub prides itself on bringing classes and workshops that are timely, quality, and of self-improvement.
For more information or to reserve your spot to “Excel in Your Excellence,” please visit: wpbcitylibrary.org or call 561-868-7701or visit www.ixl.today to learn more about Akai Jackson or the I.X.L. program. Tickets are free to the public but registration is first come first serve.
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Akai Jackson is the C.E.O of I Excel Today– a personal development agency that curates individualized mindset shift programs that transform clients from existing to excelling in their physical, mental, and financial health. Connect further at 407.701.8232 or online at www.ixl.today.
For the Love of Basketball, Make the ‘Pilgrimage’ Today
By Mike May
The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame (www.hoophall.com) in Springfield, Massachusetts is an audio-visual testimonial to the game of basketball which has evolved the game into a national and worldwide sensation. From the outside, the hall is a steel structure. On the inside, it’s the most thorough tribute to the game of basketball on the planet. This three-floor complex honors basketball at every level: high school teams, college teams, national teams, professional teams, individual players, legendary coaches, respected referees, contributors to the game, accomplished administrators, innovative promoters, brilliant broadcasters, seasoned sportswriters, and game-winning shots!
Simply put, if you like basketball, you should go to the Basketball Hall of Fame. If you coach basketball, you are required to go. And, if you play basketball, you have to go…..and bring a teammate.
To refer to this destination as a hall of fame is somewhat of a disservice. It is truly much more than pictures of players, championship team photos, famous jerseys, and replicas of historic trophies. The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame is a three-story interactive, informative, educational, and entertaining exhibit that chronicles basketball’s birth, development, growth, and global expansion into one of the greatest, if not the greatest, team sports.
“In the world of basketball, we like to believe the Naismith Hall of Fame is clearly positioned at the apex of basketball achievement,” says John L. Doleva, president/CEO, Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. “We are clearly not the largest or most powerful basketball entity, but those that are in the Hall of Fame are clearly ‘the Best of the Best.’ The Hall of Fame’s positioning statement is “To celebrate the greatest moments and people in the game.” And while we focus on our Hall of Famers, that positioning clearly allows us to also celebrate those that are not Hall of Famers, but who have made a significant contribution to the game—whether it was a generation or two ago or whether it was from a game last night.”
From the moment that you start your tour, it’s a big ‘wow.’ Kudos to the curators of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame for gathering the historical photos, jaw-dropping video, interesting artifacts, and magical moments from the game’s past which enable fans and visitors to relive and get reacquainted with the game’s highs and lows: big wins, heartbreaking losses, game-winning shots, rim-rattling slam dunks, coast-to-coast layups, game-saving steals, and, yes, missed free throws.
“Unlike most of the major American sports Halls of Fame, the Naismith Hall recognizes everyone that plays basketball: men and women, boys and girls, high school, college and pro, coaches, players, referees and contributors from around the world,” adds Doleva. “No matter what part of the game you love as a fan, you will find strong representation of that game in the Naismith Hall of Fame.”
In a nutshell, it’s fair to say that the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame staff has done everything in its power to bring the game’s historical momentos and keepsakes to Springfield for the world to see, touch, read, photograph, and admire. In other words, since they have built it, you must come!
When you visit this hall of fame, you will be as educated by the informative, fact-filled displays as you will be entertained by the Anchor Desk in the Media Gallery, the Rebound Game, the Vertical Leap demo area, and the Test Your Wingspan exhibit. For instance, did you know that Elgin Baylor was voted the Most Outstanding Player of the 1958 NCAA Final Four, despite the fact that his University of Seattle team lost to Adoph Rupp’s Kentucky Wildcats in the championship finale? Did you know that in 1922, traveling and double dribble violations were changed from ‘fouls’ to ‘changes in possession’ violations? And, basketball for women was introduced in 1893 at Smith College in Northampton, Massachusetts by Senda Berenson Abbot.
The tour of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame begins at the top — on the third floor. An elevator takes you from the lobby to the ‘penthouse,’ so to speak. Each floor is a circular exhibit which enables you to wind your way from display to display and from floor to floor. At the end, you conclude your visit by having a chance to step foot on the Jerry Colangelo Hall of Fame Court where you will be able to shoot jump shots, launch a three-pointer, make layups, attempt free throws, try a slam dunk, and play a game of H-O-R-S-E with a friend, relative, or teammate. Basketballs are provided, courtesy of Spalding. What’s cool and historical about this basketball court experience is the chance to shoot on the various forms of goals and backboards that have been used over the years, including a peach basket.
Let’s get back to the third floor. At the outset, it’s like walking into a visual basketball encyclopedia. The basketball background of every inductee into the hall is well chronicled and on display. It’s worth noting that the first class of this hall of fame was inducted in 1959 and included legendary University of Kansas coach Forrest C. ‘Phog’ Allen; Dr. Naismith; and legendary football coach Amos Alonzo Stagg, who actually played in the first public basketball game at the Springfield YMCA where he scored the faculty team’s only basket in a 5-1 loss and coached the University of Chicago against the University of Iowa in the first college game played with five players on a side on January 16, 1896.
The roots of the game of basketball are also well chronicled and preserved in Springfield, beginning with a facsimile of Dr. James Naismith’s original 13 rules of the game which are on display at the hall of fame, just as they were announced in 1891 by Naismith at the YMCA Training School in Springfield. It’s fair to say that those 13 original rules are basketball’s version of The Ten Commandments. Other basketball treasures on display include a pair of Chuck Taylor All-Star high-top basketball shoes from Converse; Shaquille O’Neill’s size 23 sneakers; a pair of ‘Pistol Pete’ Maravich’s floppy, gray socks; the game ball from Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s final regular season NBA game on April 23, 1989; and an action photo from the 1936 Olympics where basketball made its Olympic debut. By the way, the gold-medal game that year in Berlin was played between the United States and Canada. The Americans prevailed in the game which was played outside in the rain!
As you navigate the hall, you will continue to be educated, enlightened, enthralled and entertained. It never stops, which is a good thing.
For coaches who crave to learn more about the game’s fundamental strategies, there’s a section that showcases many offensive and defensive plays such as Adoph Rupp’s Single-Pivot Post, Al McGuire’s Triangle & Two, and Bob Knight’s Motion Offense.
For future journalists who now play the game of basketball, there’s a wing dedicated to the men and women who once played and/or coached the game who are now members of the media such as Jay Bilas, Dick Vitale, Jon Barry, Kara Lawson, Cheryl Miller, Reggie Miller, and Rebecca Lobo plus an area – Call A Play — where you get to give your play-by-play ‘take’ on the final moments of a big game from basketball’s historic past.
For high school basketball fans, there’s a section of the hall dedicated to the game of high school basketball, the legendary coaches, dynasty programs, and championship games. There are also special areas which honor the annual state high school basketball tournaments in the states of Indiana and Kentucky, the girls high school tournament in Iowa, and the boys tournament in New York City.
For college basketball history buffs, it’s revealed (1) the name given to an early form of the fastbreak (2) which collegiate program was the last to win both the NCAA and NIT Championships in the same year; and (3) when was the first college ‘game of the century.’ If you don’t know, former Purdue coach Ward ‘Piggy’ Lambert introduced ‘racehorse-style basketball’ while coaching at Purdue; CCNY (City College of New York) won both national titles in 1950, and; the first collegiate ‘game of the century’ was in 1945 when Oklahoma A & M (with big Bob Kurland) played DePaul (led by George Mikan) at Madison Square Garden in New York City. By the way, the boys from the Sooner state prevailed that day over the team from the Chicago suburbs.
And, for pro basketball fans, you get to find out whose idea it was to introduce the 24-second shot clock and when it was first introduced. The concept was the brainchild of former Syracuse Nationals owner Danny Biasone and put into effect beginning with the 1954-55 NBA season.
Without a doubt, a trip to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame should be on the ‘bucket list’ of every basketball player, coach, referee, administrator, journalist, broadcaster, team owner, sponsor, and fan. By stepping inside the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, it’s one way for you to honor the imagination of Dr. James Naismith whose main goal with inventing basketball was to simply create an indoor sport to act as an ‘activity bridge’ between the end of football season in the fall and the beginning of baseball season in the spring. It’s fair to say that his idea was a success — nationally and globally. Thank you, Dr. James Naismith! The basketball universe, especially the Hall of Fame in Springfield, is eternally indebted to his imagination and foresight.
Before making the pilgrimage to Springfield, check out the Hall’s website (www.hoophall.com), prepare a ‘scouting’ report, and make a ‘fastbreak’ dash to the Hall. And, don’t forget to wear your Chuck Taylor All-Stars!
The author of this story is Mike May, a freelance sports writer based in Wellington, Florida. Mike, born in Elyria, Ohio and raised in Seymour, Indiana, is a lifelong basketball fan and player. He is also an experienced high school basketball coach, who has visited the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. He encourages you to visit the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, at your earliest convenience. Mike can be reached via email: mmaymarketing@gmail.com
(Delray Beach, FL – February 8, 2022) Marjorie Waldo, President & CEO of Arts Garage, today promoted six upcoming shows and special events in February and March:
Thursday, February 10, at 6:30 pm
Leslie Gray Streeter
Discussing her Memoir Black Widow
Leslie Gray Streeter
The kick-off speaker of the upcoming Authors Speak series is Leslie Gray Streeter, the longtime pop culture columnist for The Palm Beach Post before publishing her widely praised memoir Black Widow. With her signature warmth, hilarity, and tendency to overshare, Streeter looks at widowhood through the prism of race, mixed marriage, and aging. She redefines the stages of grief, from coffin shopping to day-drinking, to being a grown-ass woman crying for your mommy, to breaking up and making up with God, to facing the fact that life goes on even after the death of the person you were supposed to live it with. The author will sign copies of the book following her presentation. The theme of this new series is The Impact of Race on American Society and it is jointly presented by the Spady Cultural Heritage Museum, Arts Garage, and the Community Redevelopment Agency of Delray Beach.
Be it bold reinventions of classical masterpieces or soulful explorations through pop-rock hits, to blazing straight ahead jazz forays and ultramodern improvisational works—solo or with a group—fan favorite Stanley Jordan can always be counted to take listeners on breathless journeys into the unexpected. Since 1985, his fast-track acclaim was his mastery of a special technique on the guitar’s fretboard. Instead of conventional strumming and picking, Jordan’s innovative “touch technique” is an advanced form of two-handed tapping, and he can even simultaneously play two different guitars. A four-time Grammy nominee, he has performed in over 60 countries and numerous festivals, including the Kool Jazz Festival, the Concord Jazz Festival, and the Montreux International Jazz Festival. His recording of Morning Desire with Kenny Rogers was America’s Number One country song in 1986; performed with Quincy Jones, Benny Carter, and Dizzy Gillespie; and has even jammed with the Dave Matthews Band.
Tickets: $45 & $50
Fridays, February 25 & March 25, at 8 pm
Garage Queens
Back by Delicious and Divine Demand, the Fierce, Fabulous and Fascinating Garage Queens on the last Friday of every month in 2022. These jaw-dropping, crowd-tickling, glitter-glowing shows will be hosted by the inimitably exquisite “Diva, Icon and Legend” Ariel Rimm, and will feature some of South Florida’s most electrifying drag entertainers: TP Lords with an anti-Valentine’s Day theme on February 25, and Rianna Petrone on March 25, along with special surprise guests, all stunningly coiffed and bedecked.
Tickets: $35 & $40
Saturday, February 26, at 6:30 pm ** SOLD OUT **
Arts Garage 11th Annual Gala
A Night at the Copacabana
Featuring the Chino Nunez Orchestra
The most important fundraiser each year at Arts Garage, the Gala will include live music, a silent and live auction, complimentary cocktails, and a plated dinner by Chez Gourmet. Attendees will love the Latin flair that Chino Nunez brings from salsa to merengue. Festive attire is admired but not required.
SOLD OUT but sponsorships are still available.
Sunday, March 20, at 7 pm
Helen Miller Live
Nationally known gospel recording artist and ordained minister, Helen Miller-Best, transports listeners back to the way church “used to be”, with hand-clapping, foot-tapping praise. Backed by a band and singers, she will play songs presented with brief testimonies and quotes from the Bible inserted between and during songs to encourage listeners. This live concert presentation is very energetic and includes clapping, stomping, and dancing to the music as singers give praise to God. Hailed as “The Gospel Whirlwind,” Miller was raised in a Boynton Beach family of gospel singers and started singing in church at the age of four, She is now a devoted mother, grandmother, and is the ordained co-pastor of both El Bethel Church in North Carolina and the Bible Teachers International Ministries in Fort Lauderdale, FL.
Tickets: $25 & $30
How to Get Tickets:
Tickets are available by calling the Arts Garage at 561.450.6357 or by going online to www.ArtsGarage.org.
About Arts Garage:
Arts Garage delivers innovative, diverse, meaningful and accessible visual and performing arts experiences to Delray Beach and South Florida. “Connecting our community to the world through the Arts”—this vision drives all decision-making at Arts Garage, which brings local, emerging artists and established global performers into the local multi-cultural community (students and adults, locals and tourists, people of all ages, income levels, backgrounds) who share a love of the arts.
Diversity is a hallmark of Arts Garage, which provides multicultural programming that promotes inclusion in the arts. #DiscoverDiversity isn’t just a tagline—it is the cornerstone of our outreach programs, staffing, and marketing. Arts Garage is located at 94 NE 2nd Avenue in Delray Beach’s popular Pineapple Grove (33444). For more information, please call 561.450.6357 or visit www.artsgarage.org.
People of All Ages Join Forces to Distribute Over $1.7 Million to Local Non-Profit Organizations at the 13th Annual Great Charity Challenge Sponsored by Fidelity Investments®
Wellington, FL – February 6, 2022 – The Great Charity Challenge sponsored by Fidelity Investments® (GCC) welcomed back supporters and enthusiasts on Saturday, February 5, 2022, to what is typically the biggest night of the 13-week Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF). In whimsical fashion, 33 teams of equestrians and their mounts, representing local non-profit organizations, took to the ring to compete for a share of more than $1.7 million in prize money. The competitive yet gracious atmosphere was back in full force, and this year the invaluable feeling of giving back to the community was felt by people of all ages, with the help of animals of all sizes.
Held at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC) in Wellington, Florida, for the past 12 years, the GCC has become a highlight of the winter season and has distributed a stunning $17.5 million to 292 local non-profit organizations.
Determined to show the power of united communities, the GCC is an exciting show jumping event that combines equestrian sports and philanthropy, bringing hope to more than 50 Palm Beach County charities every year. Each team is made up of junior and amateur riders competing side-by-side with top professionals, including Olympians, and all teams are paired with randomly selected Palm Beach County charities.
In addition to the 33 charities that were part of the GCC competition, an additional 40 nonprofits received funding through grants that were awarded leading up to the event. Thanks to many new sponsors in 2022, many charities benefited from exciting new initiatives like the Pet Parade and Costume Contest, which awarded $24,000 in grants, as well as the #BootsforBooks campaign, which will award at least $70,000 in grants to charities that will be announced on February 14, 2022. For a full list of benefiting non-profit organizations, please visit: www.GreatCharityChallenge.com
Photo by Lois Spatz
“Seeing the resiliency our community has shown over the past two years has been both humbling and inspiring. While helping to meet the immediate needs of those in our community, these challenging times have also proven to us the importance of long-term sustainable change,” said GCC co-founder Mark Bellissimo. “Bringing everyone back in a bigger and better fashion not only brings our community even closer, but also sets up those organizations serving our community for long-term success.”
Many groups deserved thanks this year, including: The Ziegler Family Foundation, a significant supporter since their creation of the Grand Prix Society in 2016; The Doyle Family Foundation and their dedication to supporting volunteerism; The Postage Stamp Farm Foundation for encouraging a younger generation to find the fun in giving back; Artemis Farms and Swede Ventures for generously supporting the #BootsForBooks movement; Evergate Stables; and new this year, Francoise Rambach for changing the lives of many with the largest donation ever facilitated through the GCC.
“The fact that Equestrian Sport Productions and Global Equestrian Group cover all costs associated with the event makes the GCC quite unique,” added GCC Executive Director Anne Caroline Valtin. “One hundred percent of the funds raised go straight back to work in our community, creating long-term impact. We are extremely humbled by the level of support witnessed this year and simply can’t thank our donors and sponsors enough for joining forces in championing this community movement.”
This year’s theme challenged us all to dig deep into our imaginations while also capitalizing on a great need in our community. Inspired by their favorite childhood story books, riders dressed up in costumes with horses adorned to match. Enjoying a story book, however, is a luxury many of us take for granted. This year’s #BootsForBooks campaign helped raise awareness for the need for literacy programming in our community. At least $70,000 was raised and will be distributed to organizations with literacy-focused programming. These funds will directly place books into the hands of adults and children and provide them with the support to learn, read, and grow.
The winning team of riders: Caroline Mawhinney, Mia Albelo, and Jessica Mendoza, sponsored by team sponsor Sexton Engineering and corporate sponsor Triple M Farms, came in the ring representing “The Ugly Duckling” and finished with a time of 93.779 seconds. Their strategy and teamwork paid off for Wellington PTA/PTO/PTSA, a local non-profit organization that helps all schools in Wellington, earning them the top prize of $100,000. The sliding scale for the balance of the proceeds, down to 33rd place winning a minimum of $15,000, ensured that everyone was a winner.
Photo by Lois Spatz
Team sponsor Sexton Engineering has been involved with the Great Charity Challenge since its inception.
“I’d like to congratulate the young ladies on this winning team tonight and just say that it’s truly incredible to see young people striving to be on top of the world and help our charities that need it,” said Mike Sexton of Sexton Engineering. “The Great Charity Challenge has given Wellington and Palm Beach County insight to a world that most people never see, and it has allowed us corporations that work with charities to get to know so many more of them. It is a terrific event.”
“We are so grateful for this event because this money, that we wouldn’t get any other way, allows us to really look at our program and close the gap for those kids that need it most. This event has created a permanent place for Wellington schools and that tells us their heart is in this with us,” explained Wellington PTA/PTO/PTSA representatives.
“It’s incredible to combine your passion of riding and to do something good in the world and our local community,” said 17-year-old Albelo. “To be able to help these charities and use our riding to have this incredible effect in the global community is incredible, and I am honored to have this opportunity.”
“The feeling is indescribable,” added Mawhinney, who is 16 years old. “These organizations deserve it all, and I’m so grateful our team was able to raise that much money for our charity.”
“It’s an incredible cause, and it’s just amazing to be a part of it, especially with such a fun team,” finished professional show jumper Mendoza.
Coming in second place was the team for Friends of Palm Beach, sponsored by The Lignelli Family and corporate sponsor La Victoria Farm. The team consisted of Grace Debney, Alexa Elle Lignelli, and Evan Coluccio, who were just over a second shy of the win in 94.885 seconds, earning $90,000 for their charity.
Friends of Foster Children finished third and won $80,000 with a time of 95.075 seconds. The team was made up of Lindsay Tomeu, Olivia Sweetnam, and Shane Sweetnam, sponsored by Spy Coast & Preston and corporate sponsors Merryburn Farm.
“Fidelity Investments is committed to making a difference in the communities where we work and live, and we were proud to be the presenting sponsor of the Winter Equestrian Festival and the 13th edition of the Great Charity Challenge. This important event distributed over $1.7 Million to more than 50 charities in the Palm Beach community, which will help assist populations most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Dave Cvercko, Regional Head of Fidelity’s South-Central Investor Centers.
In the spirit of collaboration, United Way of Palm Beach County joined forces again with the GCC, enabling spectators near and far to donate to the event online for the first time.
Grant drawings and surprise bonuses also took place leading up to the event’s 13th edition. Thanks to the annual support of the Ziegler Family Foundation, five non-profits were surprised with $10,000 grants. New this year, the GCC awarded three $2,500 grants to organizations who were GCC’s biggest cheerleaders on social media. Additionally, the team at GCC was so inspired by the many submissions for the Doyle Family Foundation Volunteer Initiative that it awarded three additional grants on their behalf. Lastly, thanks to the highly-coveted lottery drum and beloved supporters from all walks of life, non-profits were randomly awarded grants ranging from $1,000 to $7,000. For a full list of grants and donations made through this year, go to www.GreatCharityChallenge.com.
“Seeing how impactful a united community can be has been more than inspiring,” commented GCC Event and Marketing Coordinator, Kelly Arani. “It is an honor to be part of a movement with such generous donors who trust the GCC to direct their support to deserving organizations. Our dedicated charities, riders, and donors all have the same goal: empowering nonprofits. Seeing that goal become a reality on GCC night is just incredible.”
More information on the competition and winning charities of the 2022 GCC will be available shortly via www.greatcharitychallenge.com
Fidelity’s mission is to inspire better futures and deliver better outcomes for the customers and businesses we serve. With assets under administration of $11.5 trillion, including discretionary assets of $4.4 trillion as of November 30, 2021, we focus on meeting the unique needs of a diverse set of customers: helping more than 40 million people invest their own life savings, 22,000 businesses manage employee benefit programs, as well as providing more than 13,500 institutions with investment and technology solutions to invest their own clients’ money. Privately held for 75 years, Fidelity employs more than 55,000 associates who are focused on the long-term success of our customers. For more information about Fidelity Investments, visit https://www.fidelity.com/about-fidelity/our-company.
About the Winter Equestrian Festival
The Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF), known as the “Winter Equestrian Capital of the World,” is the world’s largest and longest running equestrian festival in the world, located in Wellington, Florida. The equestrian industry adds more than $100 million to Palm Beach County’s economy each year and provides more 900 jobs for the area. WEF is the proving ground for the Olympic Equestrian sport of show jumping. WEF is run by Equestrian Sport Productions and owned by Global Equestrian Group. For more information on WEF, please visit www.PBIEC.com.
Exciting in-person festival and virtual activities invite all ages to learn about and show appreciation for Florida’s favorite marine mammal
WHAT:
Marking its sixth anniversary since opening in 2016, Manatee Lagoon – An FPL Eco-Discovery Center® is hosting its annual ManateeFest, where it will celebrate the iconic marine mammals. It’s been a challenging year for manatees, whose primary food source, seagrass, has been compromised due to algal blooms in various waterways. Experts and family-friendly programs will be presented throughout the day to educate visitors on the importance of protecting manatees and what we can all do to help. For the first time ever, ManateeFest will be a hybrid event where visitors can be inspired by beloved sea cows, explore the wonders of Lake Worth Lagoon, and learn about environmental conservation either live in-person or virtually online.
The free, family-friendly event will offer a large variety of activities, including food trucks, conservation-themed vendors, environmental booths and live music performances. In-person attendees will enjoy a KidsFunZone featuring a beach cleanup and Recycling Relay Race, a Conservation Pledge station, educational Coastal Chats, photo opportunities with Mia the Manatee and special friends, marine life face painting, arts and crafts stations, local and state environmental exhibitors and much more.
The fun doesn’t stop there – in addition to an interactive photo booth and downloadable coloring sheets, online ManateeFest guests will have the unique opportunity to visit local small businesses by clicking through a virtual storefront from 8 a.m. on Saturday, March 26 through midnight on Sunday, March 27 and a chance to win prizes by playing an online trivia game.
WHEN:
Saturday, March 26, 2022 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
WHERE:
Online at www.VisitManateeLagoon.com/ManateeFest In-person at Manatee Lagoon – An FPL Eco Discovery Center® 6000 N. Flagler Drive, West Palm Beach, FL 33407
COST:
Free admission and parking. Food and beverages are available for purchase.
Wellington, FL (January 4, 2022)—The Fuller Center Foundation is hosting the 2nd Annual Legacy Polo Brunch on Sunday, March 13 to benefit under-resourced children and families.
A private reception starts at 1 p.m. with brunch at 2 p.m., followed by the USPA Gold Cup polo match at 3 p.m. at IPC – International Polo Club Palm Beach (120 Avenue South, Wellington).
Event chairs are Peg Anderson, Kelly Baker Ferrarese, and Eamonn Gunther. The tickets are $275 per person. Attire is polo chic, and hats are highly encouraged!
For more information contact Alana Lagerström, Director of Special Events, at 561-391-7274, ext. 134 or email alagerstrom@ffcdc.org.
About the Fuller Center
The Fuller Center has been a community cornerstone for over 50 years, providing under- resourced children the same educational opportunities as their more affluent peers. Our goal is to support hardworking families and their children to achieve their full potential. We believe all children should have the chance to experience success in school, in work, and in life, regardless of their parents’ income or zip code.
For children 6 weeks to 5 years old, we offer a holistic early education program, setting the foundation for school success and lifelong learning. For school-age youth, we have opened a private CHOICE elementary school serving kindergarten to third grade, and we offer after-school, summer camp, and out-of-school-time programs to develop skills in social interaction, literacy, science, technology, math, and the arts, and providing tutoring, mentoring, and enrichment activities. We have incorporated a teen program providing youth the opportunities to build skills in leadership, communication, project development, work skills readiness, and community service.
At the Fuller Center, we believe that educated children and empowered families create a strong, supportive community. The Fuller Center offers a unique, comprehensive system of family support to ensure that parents and caregivers are empowered to provide for their families and make a positive economic impact in our community. We know that when it comes to turning the tide of generational, economic inequity and making a positive impact, tomorrow begins today!
Eamonn Gunther Kelly Burcham Kelly Baker FerraresePeg Anderson Simone Spiegel Stacey Packer
Significant progress made to overcome greatest challenges, including children’s mental health, COVID-19 response, and workforce shortages.
West Palm Beach, Fla.– When BeWellPBC launched in February 2019, it set out to create a movement to transform behavioral health and wellness in Palm Beach County. Recognizing the need for coordination at all levels of the community to ensure comprehensive care for children and families, nine invested partners joined together to fund BeWellPBC and its efforts to improve interagency coordination and alignment of behavioral health services and more widely engage community members in grassroots solutions. As BeWellPBC marks its third anniversary, the initiative is celebrating the impact it has made locally, and the national recognition it has received.
BeWellPBC’s focus areas are significant, with solutions intended to have short and long-term effects. The demand for greater resources for children and youth, the shortage of behavioral health professionals, and the need for greater coordination and alignment among systems are not new challenges. But what is novel is BeWellPBC’s approach. The initiative brings together 50% “learned experts” with 50% “lived experts” to co-design community solutions together. Action committees unite Palm Beach County’s health care systems, providers, and funders together with those directly impacted by behavioral health—parents, youth, teachers, clergy, business owners and grassroots community leaders—to create the change they want to see in their families, schools, workplaces, and cities.
“BeWellPBC is a movement driven by lived and learned experts who work together with shared purpose to transform behavioral health and wellness in Palm Beach County,” said Lauren Zuchman, executive director of BeWellPBC. “Residents and system leaders are uniting in their vision for building a culture of health and wellness and co-designing solutions grounded in equity, access, community healing, and behavioral health awareness.”
With a staff of three and over 100 volunteer action team members, BeWellPBC has made significant progress since 2019 by coordinating the efforts of dedicated stewards to create new solutions locally, with some having statewide impact. Examples include:
Workforce Pipeline: Behavioral Health Focused School Project
Data from Kaiser Family Foundation shows the current supply of Florida’s working mental health professionals meets only 16.9% of the state’s need. BeWellPBC is partnering with the School District of Palm Beach County’s Allied Health and Behavioral and Mental Health Departments and community partners to build the workforce pipeline at the front end by developing a behavioral health curriculum for the district’s medical academies. Once approved, high school students will be able to work towards a career in the field through instruction and internship opportunities. In addition, the Florida Certification Board is working with BeWellPBC and partners to design a new state certification attainable by recently graduated high school students.
Stewardship Coordination & Alignment: Pediatric Integrated Care Innovation
Studies show that 75% of children under age 18 present to primary care for psychiatric care needs. BeWellPBC is taking action to advance pediatric integrated care (primary care integrated with behavioral health) in Palm Beach County and contribute to Florida-wide efforts. Together with Mental Health America of the Palm Beaches, BeWellPBC provides technical and facilitation support for the Pediatric Integrated Care Community of Practice Project, two pediatrician pilot offices that are coming together with a multi-agency workgroup to identify opportunities and challenges for their practices, address specific systemic barriers to integrated care, and document a standard for care that is scalable for other practices.
Community Solutions: Stewards Coming Together During COVID-19
Estimates of Americans with mental illness were trending upward even before COVID-19. BeWellPBC’s stewards remained committed during the pandemic, supporting local BeWell Club start-ups in the Glades and Boynton Beach, and they were fundamental to creating the county’s new Rapid Response Team with partners Palm Health Foundation, Community Partners of South Florida, Volunteer Nurse Corps, and Healthier Together communities to respond in real-time to needs shared by residents during the pandemic. Through Be Well Do Well Mini-Grants, BeWellPBC also invested $50,000 in the innovative ideas of residents and organizations to build more equitable and inclusive behavioral health support, promote workforce wellness, and focus on residents most in need.
BeWellPBC’s Community Solutions Action Team has also played a critical role in bridging community and systems and reducing stigma, including:
Community Connectors, BeWellPBC’s ambassadors, host virtual “Couch Conversations” open to the community between residents and system leaders and produce a video series highlighting behavioral health topics and resources.
Students Connect, a student-led club supported by BeWellPBC, is developing curricula for a teen-to-teen behavioral health training that will be offered to groups serving teens in 2022.
The Well of PBC, an online publication launched by BeWellPBC in 2021, serves to be the primary resource for behavioral health and wellness for Palm Beach County, a safe exchange space for the community, and an outlet for neighbors and stakeholders to transform the behavioral health landscape.
BeWellPBC’s innovative approach and rapid progress has caught the attention of national leaders, including ReThink Health, an initiative of the Rippel Foundation. They chose BeWellPBC and Palm Beach County for a two-year project to explore what it takes to reallocate resources to create more equitable regional systems for health and well-being. Together with project partners Palm Health Foundation, Children’s Services Council of Palm Beach County, and Palm Beach County’s Youth Services and Community Services Departments, they have been on the cutting edge of exploring how communities can shift from investing in urgent services to vital conditions (e.g., humane housing, basic needs, and meaningful work) knowing that as vital conditions improve, urgent services are less needed, and residents are better positioned to thrive. The findings of the project will be shared nationally.
“We attribute our progress to systems and residents working together toward a shared vision in which every person in Palm Beach County feels hopeful, supported, connected and empowered,” said Zuchman. “Change takes dedication and courage. We are grateful to our invested partners and the dozens of stewards working with BeWellPBC to transform behavioral health and wellness for today, and generations to come.”
BeWellPBC’s invested partners/funders are: The Celia Lipton Farris and Victor W. Farris Foundation, Southeast Florida Behavioral Health Network, Palm Health Foundation, Palm Beach County, Children’s Services Council of Palm Beach County, Quantum Foundation, United Way of Palm Beach County, Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties, and the Merrell Family Foundation.
Photos from the hottest event Around Wellington from the week of 1.31.22. Please send 3-4 photos of your social event, print ready, with names in order from left to right to connect@khannaconnections.com to be considered for publishing.
Player’s Club One Night Only Event in Wellington. Photography by @justcjules_photography
Player’s Club One Night Only Event in Wellington. Photography by @justcjules_photography
Player’s Club One Night Only Event in Wellington. Photography by @justcjules_photographyAshley Busch, Kathleen Gannon-Ledsome, Crystal Casey, and friends at the Player’s Club One Night Only Event in Wellington. Photography by @justcjules_photography
Daniela and Dani Clos at the 2022 Equestrian Triathlon. Photography by Elina’s Dream
Emily Wiley and Victor Concepcion at the International Polo Club. Photography by SunmanKevin Lawson, Sheeba and Surej Kalathil, Jessica Guilbert, Julie Khanna, Akai Jackson, Luis Pena Hernandez and friends Victor Concepcion at the International Polo Club. Photography by SunmanJeremy Ring, Pam Tahan, Maria Atuna, Cari and Jason Kimbrell, Akai Jackson and Julie Khanna at the Central Palm Beach County Chamber and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Event
Player’s Club One Night Only Event in Wellington. Photography by @justcjules_photography
2022 Equestrian Triathlon. Photography by Elina’s Dream
Dr. Laura DeLuca and friends at the 2022 Equestrian Triathlon. Photography by Elina’s Dream
Julie Kime and Julie Khanna at the 2022 Equestrian Triathlon. Photography by Nikhil Ramprasad
Tanya Siskind and Sylvester Stallone at the International Polo Club
