WEST PALM BEACH, FL– (January 21, 2025) Vita Nova will host its Eighth Annual Mallets & Martinis on March 29, 2025, at the National Croquet Center in West Palm Beach. This annual affair is the nonprofit’s signature fundraising event to raise money to support the homeless youth Vita Nova serves in Palm Beach County and go directly towards Vita Nova’s Housing Program and Independent Living Services.
Beginning at 6:00 pm, guests of Mallets & Martinis will experience an exciting evening under the palms featuring croquet, martinis, and live music. Guests, who are encouraged to wear “Chic Croquet Whites,” will also have the opportunity after dinner to bid on unique live auction items and dance the night away.
Serving close to 700 youth annually in Palm Beach County, Vita Nova is a safe bridge to independence for former foster care, LGBTQ, and other homeless youth through supportive housing, education, employment, and life skills training. Working to eliminate homelessness for youth ages 18 to 25 years old in Palm Beach County, Vita Nova acts as an advocate and support system for homeless young adults.
Chairs are Dr. Vassillia Binensztok and Michael Davis.
Sponsors to date include Florida Power & Light, Valley Bank, Sunshine Health, PBCHRC, BrandX, Searcy, Denney, Scarola, Barnhart & Shipley, FAU-Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing, and Palm Beach Illustrated.
Tickets to Mallets & Martinis are $275 each. To learn more, become a sponsor, and/or purchase tickets, visit vitanovainc.org/Mallets-Martinis or call 561.472.4809.
About Vita Nova:
Vita Nova is a safe bridge to independence for former foster care, LGBTQ, and other homeless youth through supportive housing, education, employment, and life skills training. Vita Nova, Inc, located in West Palm Beach, Florida, is comprised of three components: the Spot, Housing (The Village), and Independent Living.
Vita Nova means “new life” in Latin and was founded by Father Leo Armbrust, a man who believed that foster youth deserved a better quality of care. Through the efforts of the Vita Nova team members, its volunteers, and its benefactors, older foster and homeless youth are allowed to lead lives characterized by independence, self-determination, and personal responsibility.
To learn more about Vita Nova or to donate, visit vitanovainc.org or call 561.689.0035
(West Palm Beach, FL – January 21, 2025) – Mounts Botanical Garden of Palm Beach County is excited to welcome award-winning author, wildlife photographer, and conservationist Kirsten Hines for a captivating presentation and book signing at the Garden on Saturday, February 1, 2025. This special event will inspire local naturalists, conservationists, and eco-minded photographers to discover Florida’s hidden wildlife wonders.
“Kirsten Hines inspires others to be active ambassadors in creating greenways to protect our state’s natural treasures,” says Mounts Botanical Garden Executive Director James May. “Her insights into how Florida animals live provide a window into how we can find hidden wonders even in our own backyards.”
EVENT DETAILS:
Date: Sat., Feb. 1, 2025
Time: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Location: Mounts Botanical Garden
Cost:
$5 for members
$25 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission)
EVENT OVERVIEW – WILD FLORIDA: AN ANIMAL ODYSSEY WITH KIRSTEN HINES
Florida is home to an astonishing array of wildlife, from alligators and panthers to fireflies and rare snakes. But did you know it also has crocodiles, bears, and more species of fireflies than any other state? Or that a tiny lizard swims through Central Florida’s ancient sand dunes, a red widow spider hides in palmettos, and wild flamingos—common two centuries ago—are reappearing? Join Kirsten Hines as she takes audiences on a visual and descriptive journey from the temperate Panhandle through the state’s diverse habitats to the tropical islands of Dry Tortugas National Park. Through breathtaking photography and expert storytelling, Hines will explore Florida’s incredible array of animals as captured in her gold-medal-winning book, Wild Florida: An Animal Odyssey.
BOOKS AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE & SIGNING:
Birds of Florida (2024)
Wild Florida: An Animal Odyssey (2023)
Attracting Birds to South Florida Gardens (2014)
ABOUT KIRSTEN HINES
Kirsten Hines is an award-winning author, wildlife photographer, and conservationist with a master’s degree in biology. She has authored eight books on Florida’s nature and history, with her images featured in public art programs, photography showcases, and exhibitions. Through storytelling, wildlife-oriented presentations, and conservation advocacy, she inspires audiences to take action in preserving Florida’s diverse ecosystems. She also co-founded Phoebes Birding, connecting women through nature, and serves as Conservation Chair on the Audubon Florida board.
Kirstin Hines Florida Book Awards:
Gold Medal for Visual Arts
Florida Authors and Publishers Association, Sunshine State Award
Florida Authors and Publishers Association President’s Book Awards
Gold Medal for Science/Nature
National League of American Pen Women, Inc., Marjorie Davies Roller Nonfiction Award
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
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.
EXPLORE MOUNTS ANYTIME, FROM ANYWHERE WITH FREE MOBILE GARDEN GUIDE
Can’t visit in person? Explore Mounts Botanical Garden from anywhere in the world with the Mobile Garden Guide, available free via Bloomberg Connects. This multimedia app features interactive maps, exhibition highlights, and exclusive photo, audio, and video content to enhance the visitor experience. Learn more and download: www.mounts.org/mobile-garden-guide.
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.
WELLINGTON, FL – A landmark charity event of the polo community is back. On Friday, March 7th, the 10th Annual Polo for a Purpose will take place at the National Polo Center. Pivotal funds are raised, and fun is had at this annual event supporting South Florida families fighting pediatric cancer. Together, a meaningful night is orchestrated in the heart of the polo community for a worthy cause.
This year, ticket holders for the event will celebrate in a Japanese inspired theme ‘Land of the Rising Sun’ with cultural attire suggested. With more than $2.71 million raised to help local families struggling with a pediatric diagnosis, Polo for Life will continue its legacy of standing with some of the 10,000 children in the U.S. who are estimated to be diagnosed with cancer under the age of 15 each year.
Serving as co-chairs are Christine Aylward, Montana Coady, Rob Gray, Alex Hammer, Benjamin Randall, Rita A. Reik, MD, and PJ Rizvi with Brandon Phillips serving as honorary chair.
Offering guests a memorable experience and way to help others in need, the 10th Annual Polo for a Purpose’s exhibition polo match will formally kick off at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 7, 2025, at the National Polo Center (3667 120th Ave South, Wellington, FL.) followed by an authentic Japanese dinner, exciting live auction, and entertainment surprises throughout the night.
Polo for Life encourages the community to take part and bid during the live auction and support this special event that makes a huge positive impact. Monies raised support local families through donations to Baptist Health South Florida, Kid’s Cancer Foundation and Pediatric Oncology Support Team. To donate or purchase event tickets online please click here.
Polo for Life was founded by Brandon Phillips, a professional polo player who has won many of the sport’s most prestigious tournaments. However, winning tournaments is not the biggest victory he has achieved–surviving stage 4 non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is. Phillips was just 14 years old when diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and given a prognosis of six weeks to live. He endured five grueling months of intensive chemotherapy sessions yet never lost his spirit nor accepted death as an option. He beat the odds, went into remission, and vowed to dedicate his life to polo and his desire to help families facing the dreadful challenge of surviving childhood cancers. Polo for Life, Inc. raises money to help pediatric cancer patients and their families from diagnosis and treatment to survivorship and long-term follow-up. By partnering with South Florida organizations, Polo for Life provides financial assistance so families can remain in their homes, be confident they will have food to survive, and overcome financial hardships that come with a pediatric cancer diagnosis. It has donated more than $2.7 million since its founding.
Application Deadline is February 10 for Theater/Journalism Students in Broward, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach Counties
(South Florida – January 16, 2025) Gary Schweikhart, board president of the Carbonell Awards, South Florida’s Theatre & Arts Honors, today reminded college-bound high school students that the nonprofit organization is now accepting applications for its 2025 Jack Zink Memorial Student Scholarships. The deadline to apply is Monday, February 10, 2024. Since 1978, the Carbonell Awards has given out more than $130,000 in scholarships to winning applicants.
The selection of scholarship recipients is based on talent, experience and demonstrated commitment to theater and/or journalism, with one winner from each of the three area counties (Broward, Miami-Dade, Palm Beach) receiving a $2,000 scholarship.
The selection process is chaired by Carbonell Vice President Javier Siut, a member of the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs.
· Applicant must be a graduating high school senior with a minimum 2.5 GPA.
· Applicant must be a resident of Broward, Miami-Dade or Palm Beach County.
· Applicant must be nominated by a mentor from school or theatre (no parents and no self-nominations).
· If selected, the applicant must be accepted into College to pursue a degree in theatre or journalism.
Timeline:
· Completed application must be submitted no later than February 10, 2025.
· The interview/audition for scholarship finalists will be held in mid-March. Date and location will be announced soon.
· The three winning scholarship winners will be honored at the annual Carbonell Awards Celebration on November 17, 2025, at the FAU University Theatre in Boca Raton.
About the Jack Zink Memorial Scholarships:
The scholarship is named for Jack Zink (1947-2008) who was a major voice in South Florida entertainment coverage for more than three decades. During his long career, he was employed as entertainment editor, columnist, critic and reporter at each of South Florida’s major newspapers: The South Florida Sun-Sentinel, The Miami Herald, The Palm Beach Post & Evening Times, and The Fort Lauderdale News. Mr. Zink was the founder and a past president of the Carbonell Awards, a past president of The American Theatre Critics Association, and was a recipient of both the Sun-Sentinel’s Fred Pettijohn Award, which is given annually to the newspaper’s top reporters, and South Florida’s prestigious George Abbott Award for Outstanding Achievement in the Arts.
About The Carbonell Awards:
The Carbonell Awards fosters the artistic growth of professional theater in South Florida by celebrating the diversity of our theater artists, providing educational scholarships, and building audience appreciation and civic pride by highlighting achievements of our theater community. More than 30 professional theater companies in Broward, Miami-Dade and Palm Beach counties participate in the annual awards process. The Carbonell Awards also celebrate the accomplishments of local artistic leaders by presenting several Special Awards.
Along with New York’s Drama Desk and Chicago’s Joseph Jefferson Awards, the Carbonell Awards are among the nation’s senior regional arts awards and predate others, including Washington, D.C.’s Helen Hayes Awards. The Carbonell Awards are named after Manuel Carbonell, an internationally renowned sculptor, who designed the original solid bronze and marble award in 1976, the signature trophy that is still given annually to Carbonell Award winners. Over the last 47 years, the Carbonell family has donated more than $250,000 in awards. For more information, please visit www.carbonellawards.org.
Free, in-person festival with activities for all ages to celebrate and learn about Florida manatees
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (Jan. 22, 2025) — Manatee Lagoon – An FPL Eco-Discovery Center® is hosting its ninth annual ManateeFest on Saturday, Feb. 1 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. ManateeFest 2025 attendees can enjoy free, family-friendly activities that celebrate Florida’s iconic manatees and local waterways.
“For the ninth year in a row, ManateeFest will bring together locals and visitors alike to celebrate the beloved Florida manatee,” said Rachel Shanker, manager of education and conservation for Manatee Lagoon. “FPL constructed Manatee Lagoon nine years ago to inspire communities to preserve and protect Florida’s wildlife for future generations. We hope ManateeFest 2025 plays a key role in doing just that by raising awareness around manatees.”
During the event, guests can visit the Conservation Pledge Station and make a pledge to help protect manatees and their habitat. Guests are also welcome to interact with environmental exhibitors, help Mia the Manatee complete her conservation challenge by participating in “Mia’s Conservation Mission,” and listen to educational presentations throughout the day.
ManateeFest 2025 Activities
Family Fun for All Ages:
Manatee enthusiasts can dive into a world of excitement with:
Outdoor games like cornhole
Beach cleanup activity
Passport activity
Face painting
Giant sea-life puzzles
Selfie station with Mia
Local Shops and Eats:
Visitors can explore and support a variety of small local businesses
Enjoy a delicious array of food options along your journey through ManateeFest
Relaxation Stations:
Find tranquility and comfort at ManateeFest’s special relaxation spots – located at the large, clear tent – featuring:
Tropical ambiance and comfortable Adirondack chair seating
About Manatee Lagoon – An FPL Eco-Discovery Center®
Manatee Lagoon – An FPL Eco-Discovery Center® is a free Palm Beach County educational attraction with a dedicated area to view manatees up close. The 16,000-square-foot center features engaging, hands-on exhibits for visitors to learn all about the unique creatures as well as the natural wonders of the surrounding Lake Worth Lagoon. During the colder winter months, the facility’s observation deck is the ideal spot to view manatees basking in the clean, warm-water outflows from Florida Power & Light Company’s adjacent Riviera Beach Next Generation Clean Energy Center. Manatee Lagoon also offers digital resources and educational virtual content for manatee fans near and far on its website: VisitManateeLagoon.com.
The center is open seven days a week, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., except for major holidays, through manatee season, which runs Nov. 15 through March 31, 2025. Manatee Lagoon is open the rest of the year Tuesday through Sunday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Boca West Cares Hope Week Steering Committee 2023-2024
BOCA RATON, FL, January 27, 2025 – More than 300 Hundred volunteers from Boca West Country Club will donate more than 10,000 hours during the Third Annual Hope Week, January 27-February 2, held by the Boca West Cares Initiative. A number of local charities will be recipients of Hope Week including the Boca West Chapter of The Pap Corps, Gilda Mallin Boca West Chapter of Hadassah, Fuller Center, Habitat for Humanity-Greater Palm Beach County, Literacy Coalition of Palm Beach County, Place of Hope-The Leighan & David Rinker Campus, Boca Helping Hands, Tri-County Animal Rescue, Boca West Children’s Foundation, and the Lynn Cancer Institute – Boca Raton Regional Hospital.
“Boca West is dedicated to serving our local community and Hope Week gives our club members the opportunity to learn about a number of non-profits while making a difference,” said Matthew Linderman, CCM, President, COO and General Manager of Boca West Country Club. “Club members often ask how they can serve the local community and are so grateful for the opportunity to participate in Hope Week.”
Here’s what Boca West Country Club members will be doing for each non-profit:
Monday, January 27, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. – Gilda Mallin Boca West Chapter of Hadassah, Fazio Room, Boca West Country Club Golf & Activities Center
Volunteers will make items for Fuller Center and Place of Hope (The Leighan and David Rinker Campus), as well as Gandel Rehabilitation Center and Hadassah Hospital in Israel.
Monday, January 27, 1-4 p.m.—Boca West Children’s Foundation, Dye Room, Boca West Country Club Golf & Activities Center
Volunteers will sort, label and pack backpacks with school supplies.
Tuesday, January 28, 3-5 p.m.—Fuller Center, 200 N.E. 14th Street, Boca Raton (East Campus)
Volunteers will create inspirational bracelets with the Center’s after school students. The bracelets, filled with well wishes, will be given to patients at Lynn Cancer Institute.
Wednesday, January 29, 11:15 a.m.- 1 p.m.—Literacy Coalition of Palm Beach County, Blue Lake Elementary School, 799 Banyan Trail, Boca Raton
Volunteers will read one on one or with a small group of elementary students and participate in activities with the kids. The kids will get to keep a copy of the book and take home the activity.
Thursday, January 30, 7:30 a.m.- 2 p.m.–Habitat for Humanity Home Build—Greater Palm Beach County, South Bay
Members will work alongside Habitat families on a fencing project.
Thursday, January 30, 1-4 p.m.—Place of Hope, The Leighhan & David Rinker Campus, 21441 Boca Rio Road, Boca Raton
Volunteers will sort and organize clothing, children’s items, diapers and more to be distributed to the children as well as clean out the non-perishable food pantry.
Friday, January 31, 9 a.m.-noon—Boca West Chapter of The Pap Corps, Palmer Room, Golf & Activities Center, Boca West Country Club
Volunteers will make decorative centerpieces for an upcoming card party.
Volunteers will pack non-perishable items in pantry bags and boxes, as well as stock and sort food.
Saturday, February 1, 9 a.m.-noon—Habitat for Humanity Home ReStore—Greater Palm Beach County, 1900 N. Federal Highway, Delray Beach
Volunteers will sort donations.
Saturday, February 1, 9 a.m.-noon—Tri-County Animal Rescue, 21287 Boca Rio Road, Boca Raton
Volunteers will participate in an orientation class, then walk, sit with, hold and read to dogs.
Sunday, February 2. 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.—Lynn Cancer Institute, Boca Raton Regional Hospital, (Cancer Legacy Day), 701 N.W. 13th Street, Boca Raton
Volunteers will put together a box breakfast to be served following the Run for the Ribbons, assist cancer patients and their families with tile painting for the Cancer Legacy Day Tile Painting Celebration, which celebrates cancer patients, and give out wellness bracelets made by Fuller Center kids.
“Over the past several months, we have worked closely with the charities to develop Hope Week 2025. Each charity has identified unique member engagement opportunities to enable our members who often ask how they can get involved, to learn about the charity and volunteer,” said Danny Schulman, Hope Week Chairman.
Hope Week Steering Committee members include Matthew Linderman, CCM President, COO & General Manager of Boca West Country Club, Danny Schulman, Steering Committee Chairman and Board of Governors, Jeanine Banks, Chairman of the Board, Steve Roth, Steering Committee Vice Chair and Board of Governors. Staff participants include Christina Guilanti, Director of Activities and Kathy Kohlhepp, Director of Communications and Marketing.
About Boca West Country Club Located in the heart of Boca Raton, Florida, Boca West Country Club is a private, resident-only, luxury country club community. With four championship golf courses, an award-winning USTA tennis facility, a new 110,000 square foot Lifestyle Center with five pools, a luxurious spa, seven renowned restaurants, and an active social community – all surrounded by 1,400 acres of lush, tropical landscaping – Boca West Country Club offers an incomparable lifestyle and impeccable service.
Boca West Country Club is honored to be a Platinum Clubs of the World by Club Leaders Forum since 2017; has received a 5-Star Private Club ranking by Platinum Clubs of America since 1997; has been recognized since 2013 as a Distinguished World Club by BoardRoom magazine; is a 2013 USTA Outstanding Facility Award winner; and was honored with the 2019 AGM Platinum Award by the Association of Golf Merchandisers and 2019 South Florida PGA Merchandise of the Year – Private Award. For more information, visit bocawestcc.org. To inquire about club membership, call (561) 488-6934
For more information, visit bocawestcc.org. To inquire about membership, please call 561.488.6934.
A hotly contested final between Zapican BMW and Concord Equity Group was played on Field One at the National Polo Center in Wellington this past Sunday.
In front a large crowd, the BMW team made up of Vance Miller, Stevie Orthwein, Nachi Viana and Santi Wulff defeated Dana Barnes, Nico Escobar, Lucas Escobar and Jeff Hall playing for Concord Equity Group 10-8.
Nachi Viana won both MVP and Best Playing Polo honors.
Renowned Israel Philharmonic Embarks on Five-City US Tour in Florida and California, March 19–26
Miami, West Palm Beach, Palm Desert, San Francisco, Costa Mesa
Performing Works by Avni, Bernstein, Bruch, Mendelssohn, and Tchaikovsky
[Shani] established an exquisite balance from the opening bars, spinning out golden spools of sound…he never shortchanged the work’s lyricism, its melodic lines mighty and inexorable.” –Musical America (on Shani’s recent appearance with Chicago Symphony Orchestra)
New York, NY: January 22, 2025 — The Israel Philharmonic (IPO) returns to the United States for a five-city tour, March 19–26, 2025, conducted by Music Director Lahav Shani. The tour is presented by American Friends of the Israel Philharmonic (AFIPO), and it marks the orchestra’s first return to the US since its 2022 tour, when Shani made his US debut as Music Director. Pfizer is the Israel Philharmonic US Tour Presenting Sponsor.
On the 2025 US tour, the orchestra performs great works of classical music from the 19th and 20th centuries. A beloved work in the classical canon, Felix Mendelssohn’s Symphony No. 3, “Scottish,” was composed after Mendelssohn visited Scotland and was inspired by the country’s natural beauty. Each program on the tour also features a symphony by Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 5 or Symphony No. 6, “Pathétique.”
Several cities on the tour will hear three works that were directly inspired by or written for the Jewish community. Prayer is a 1961 work for string orchestra by Tzvi Avni, written in honor of his father who was killed in 1938 during the 1936–39 Arab Revolt. In 2001, Avni was awarded the Israel Prize, the greatest honor bestowed upon artists in Israel. Following the IPO’s most recent performance of Prayer in Tel Aviv, Avni wrote to the orchestra, “Prayer has received several performances over the years. But the performance of the work this time by the Israel Philharmonic was especially moving.” VIDEO: Tzvi Avni: Prayer, for String Orchestra – Lahav Shani, conductor
Bruch’s Kol Nidrei (1880) draws its title from the powerful prayer recited on the holiest day on the Jewish calendar, Yom Kippur. The solo cello imitates the lilting voice of the synagogue’s cantor; Bruch himself was inspired by the cantor-in-chief of Berlin, to whom he was introduced by his teacher. Bruch wrote, “Even though I am a Protestant, as an artist I deeply felt the outstanding beauty of these melodies and therefore I gladly spread them through my arrangement.”
Bernstein’s Halil(1981)is dedicated to the memory of Israeli flutist Yadin Tanenbaum, who was killed on October 7, 1973 during the Yom Kippur war — ironically, exactly 50 years before the October 7, 2023 attack in Israel. “Halil” means “flute” in Hebrew, and the work’s solo flute part is performed on this tour by Principal Flute Guy Eshed. The Israel Philharmonic gave the work’s world premiere in 1981, conducted by the composer, and has performed it many times since then. Eshed says, “Playing this powerful piece is so meaningful because what are we fighting for, if not for culture and art? The fact that we are all here together, giving some serenity in this wildness outside, means everything.” In this video, Eshed speaks with Yadin Tanenbaum’s sister, Ella Tanenbaum-Koren. VIDEO: Bernstein: Halil, Nocturne for Flute and Orchestra – Guy Eshed, Flute, Lahav Shani, Conductor
Music Director Lahav Shani underscores the importance of art in difficult times. “The Israel Philharmonic remains deeply committed to the power of art and its ability to inspire, connect, and heal,” said Shani. “The programs we’ve chosen for this tour showcase the IPO as a truly world-class orchestra, continuing to create and uplift, even — or perhaps especially — in the most difficult of times. This tour holds deep personal and musical significance for me, and it is an honor to return to the United States and perform in some of the country’s leading arts centers, thanks to the American Friends of the Israel Philharmonic. We look forward to sharing this great music with American audiences this spring.”
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Israel Philharmonic US Concert Tour Presented by American Friends of the Israel Philharmonic March 19–27, 2025
MIAMI, FL Wednesday, March 19, 2025 at 8:00 pm Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts Israel Philharmonic Lahav Shani, Conductor AVNI: Prayer BRUCH: Kol Nidrei BERNSTEIN: Halil TCHAIKOVSKY: Symphony No. 6 Concert information & tickets
WEST PALM BEACH, FL Thursday, March 20, 2025 at 7:30 pm Kravis Center for the Performing Arts Israel Philharmonic Lahav Shani, Conductor MENDELSSOHN: Symphony No. 3, in A Minor “Scottish” TCHAIKOVSKY: Symphony No. 5 in E Minor Concert information & tickets
PALM DESERT, CA Saturday, March 22, 2025 at 7:30 pm McCallum Theatre Israel Philharmonic Lahav Shani, Conductor MENDELSSOHN: Symphony No. 3, in A Minor “Scottish” TCHAIKOVSKY: Symphony No. 5 in E Minor Concert information & tickets
SAN FRANCISCO, CA Sunday, March 23, 2025 at 7:30 pm Davies Symphony Hall Israel Philharmonic Lahav Shani, Conductor AVNI: Prayer BRUCH: Kol Nidrei BERNSTEIN: Halil TCHAIKOVSKY: Symphony No. 6 Concert information & tickets
COSTA MESA, CA Wednesday, March 26, 2025 at 8:00 pm Renee and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall Israel Philharmonic Lahav Shani, Conductor AVNI: Prayer BRUCH: Kol Nidrei BERNSTEIN: Halil TCHAIKOVSKY: Symphony No. 6 Concert information & tickets
The AFIPO presents benefit events connected to the tour stops in Miami, San Francisco, and Costa Mesa, as well as special benefit evenings in New York City (March 18) and Los Angeles (March 25). To learn more about these benefit evenings, visit AFIPO’s website.
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ABOUT ISRAEL PHILHARMONIC
The Israel Philharmonic (IPO) is the leading orchestra in Israel and globally recognized as a world class symphonic ensemble. Founded in 1936 by famed Polish violinist Bronislaw Huberman, the IPO performs regularly in its home, the Charles Bronfman Auditorium in Tel Aviv, as well as across Israel, including Jerusalem and Haifa. Additionally, it tours internationally, from Europe to Asia to North and South America. Since its inception, the IPO has stood for humanitarian principles, artistic freedom, and the tireless pursuit of musical excellence.
“Displaying the frighteningly fast reflexes of, say, a great fencer, Shani exalted in a kind of virtuosic suddenness. He makes music of the moment and of the nano-second, and the shock coefficient is often high. But the immediacy is thrilling.” —Los Angeles Times
“[The performance] had punch and pungency, with sharper accents and more exquisitely molded lyrical passages. They really sold the piece, and they got a terrific ovation in response.” —San Francisco Classical Voice
“They delivered big sound and a clear understanding of where the music wants to go, which resulted in an enjoyable evening.” —Seen and Heard International
“Conducting from memory, [Shani] consolidated the entire arch of the symphonic discourse into a consistent statement, while fashioning with great care the individuality of each of the movements.” —Bachtrack
During my 13-day trip to Scotland last August, I spent half of my time working on the scoring team at the LPGA’s ISPS Handa Women’s Scottish Open — held at the Dundonald Links in western Scotland — and the other half of my trip playing some of Scotland’s most spectacular and historical seaside links golf courses.
My first two rounds were played at the Western Gailes Golf Club and Prestwick Golf Club. Both layouts are perched adjacent to the Firth of Clyde, along the west coast of Scotland. If you can imagine an ideal links golf destination, Western Gailes will fit your description to a ‘T.’ It’s simply brilliant. My favorite tee shot was to the par-three 7th hole which is called Sea.
Mike May addressing the ball at the picturesque Western Gailes Golf Club
As for Prestwick, it’s a true memory maker as its historical significance in golf is second-to-none since it was the site of the first Open Championship – first contested on October 17, 1860. Back then, Prestwick only had 12 holes and now there are 18 holes. When you play Prestwick, you will play one of golf’s most significant and treasured destinations. The last Open Championship at Prestwick was held in 1925. Good luck on your blind tee shot on the par-three 5th hole (Himalayas) and your blind approach shot on the par-four 17th hole (Alps).
Bunker with steps at Prestwick Golf Course
From there, I drove north to Dornoch in the Scottish Highlands. My first destination was the Royal Dornoch Golf Club, which has been in existence since 1877. This golf club has been on my ‘bucket list’ for nearly 40 years. I finally made it. The Royal Dornoch GC sits on the northeast coast of Scotland, along the Dornoch Firth. In Dornoch, I played the two courses at Royal Dornoch – the Championship Course and the Struie Course. The Championship Course is truly one of golf’s all-time treasures and best designs. When you play the Championship Course’s back nine, relish the seaside views on your left. You should always play the Championship Course twice. Your first round will be an experience. During your second round, you’ll know how to play it. The Struie Course, which will deliver a fun and relaxing links golf experience, is considered one of Scotland’s top 50 links courses. The Bannerman’s Haddock & Chips served at the Royal Dornoch Golf Club are delectable.
In 2007, Golf Digest ranked the Championship course at the Royal Dornoch GC as #3 on its Top 100 International (outside the U.S.) golf courses. Golf writer David Brice has referred to Royal Dornoch as “the king of Scottish links courses.”
If you want a referral on Royal Dornoch, ask five-time (British) Open Champion Tom Watson who is an honorary member at Royal Dornoch.
“It’s the most fun I’ve ever had on a golf course,” said Watson.
The Bannerman’s Haddock & Chips served at the Royal Dornoch Golf Club … Delicious
During my three-day, three-round experience at Royal Dornoch, I stayed at the fabulous Dornoch Station Hotel, which caters to visiting golfers. The well-decorated Bar Ross, with its snooker table, is a popular destination at night for hotel guests. The quality of the fare served at The Golden Gorse restaurant and its overall ambiance add to the allure and appeal of the Dornoch Station Hotel. The practice putting green out front is another appealing amenity of this hotel.
Upon leaving Dornoch, I drove south to Nairn, which is another small seaside community based along the Moray Firth. While in Nairn for three days and two nights, I stayed at the four-star Golf View Hotel & Spa which is an ideal destination for visiting golfers. Every room has a view of the Moray Firth. The Coast Spa, which includes a heated indoor pool, an outdoor hot tub, sauna, steam room, and a Stone Bath, is truly first-class. The hotel’s overall service is what you deserve. The quality of the food served at the Hickory Restaurant is superb.
Mike May stopping at the Bothy at Nairn Golf Club
The two top draws around Nairn are the Nairn Golf Club and Castle Stuart Golf Links. Nairn is a former host of the Walker Cup, Curtis Cup and the 2021 Men’s (British) Amateur Championship. Many avid golfers say playing golf at Nairn is as exciting as playing the Old Course at St. Andrews. When you play Nairn, make a pit shop for a snack, drink or a bathroom break at the halfway house known as the Bothy, which is adjacent to the 9th green. Bothy is a Scottish word which means shelter.
More than 100 years ago, former five-time (British) Open champion James Braid recognized Nairn’s positive qualities which continue to this day.
“The texture of the turf and character of the greens are unrivalled,” said Braid, who was the first player to break 70 at Nairn when he shot 69 in 1901.
In my opinion, Castle Stuart is a ‘Mona Lisa,’ as it’s one of the most perfect golf course layouts in the world. It’s also a four-time host of the Scottish Open. The many views of the Moray Firth from the tees, fairways and greens at Castle Stuart are spectacular.
The wind is the biggest form of defense at Nairn and Castle Stuart.
Western Gailes, Prestwick, Royal Dornoch, Castle Stuart, and Nairn – plus the Dornoch Station Hotel and the Golf View Hotel & Spa — await your arrival and my return.
“As Seen On TV” TV Products Plus, Chi Spa, and ncognito
WELLINGTON, FL – Three new retail destinations are joining the more than 160 stores at The Mall at Wellington Green. “As Seen On TV” TV Products Plus, Chi Spa, and ncognito add to the growing and robust offerings in apparel, health and beauty, and more at this lifestyle destination in Wellington.
“As Seen On TV” TV Products Plus
“As Seen On TV” TV Products Plus opened its doors on November 7, 2024, across from Starbucks on the ground floor. Shoppers visiting the 3,289 square-foot store will discover hundreds of useful products and gadgets that have appeared on popular television shopping networks like HSN, QVC, and ABC’s “Shark Tank.” Merchandise includes everything from household helpers to culinary essentials and beauty must-haves. Owner Vick Jagtani, who ran a similar business at the Festival Marketplace in Pompano Beach for 15 years before relocating, says his customers appreciate the convenience of one-stop shopping rather than visiting multiple stores. For more information, call (954) 978-7571 or visit @tvproductsplus on Facebook and Instagram.
Chi Spa
Two Chi Spa locations opened on December 6, 2024. Chi Spa founder Steven Chen operates several Asian-focused day spas exclusively in shopping malls across the country. Located on separate floors in different sections of the mall, both locations, which feature over 2,800 square feet of combined spa space, offer similar massage services, including deep tissue, sports, and acupressure—a traditional Chinese technique that applies pressure to specific areas of the body to promote healing and relaxation. Customers may opt to have them administered in either public or private therapy rooms and with or without clothing. Cupping, another ancient healing method known for such benefits as increased range of motion and reduced pain and inflammation, is also offered. Chen points out that while Swedish massage and other European techniques are available, his spa practitioners excel at unblocking and rebalancing the energy pathways known as “chi.” These physical therapies also enhance mental health, attracting older adults and health and fitness enthusiasts like Chen, who enjoys long-distance running and cycling. “Massage not only increases my physical mobility but benefits my emotional well-being,” he states. “That is why these treatments are so powerful.” For more information, call (520) 237-4591.
ncognito
For a complete body transformation that includes exercise, nutrition, and massage therapy, look no further than ncognito. Open seven days a week, this 2,882 square-foot boutique health studio owned by Marcus Nisbett launched on January 8and offers personal training and fitness coaching for individuals and groups. Services include massage treatments such as trigger point therapy, myofascial release, and reflexology; stretch and recovery services; and yoga classes. Personalized dietary coaching programs further distinguish it. Offerings include social dining excursions to restaurants where participants learn to make healthy choices that align with their nutritional goals, along with the “Grocery Store Excursion,” where small groups are guided through a market by an expert to learn about label reading, package selection, and quick meal ideas. For more information, call (561) 389-5635 or visit ncognito.com.
The Mall at Wellington Green is located at 10300 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington, FL. For
Mall hours are Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
About The Mall at Wellington Green
The Mall at Wellington Green in Wellington, FL is a 1.2 million square foot, two-level regional shopping destination, and it features over 160 stores. Retailers include Macy’s, Dillard’s, Apple, Brighton, Chico’s, Forever 21, H&M, Tommy Bahama, City Furniture, The Palm Beach Museum of Natural History, CMX Wellington, and more. For more information, visit shopwellingtongreen.com.
About Spinoso Real Estate Group
The Mall at Wellington Green is managed by Spinoso Real Estate Group. Since 2009,
Spinoso has taken a creative, entrepreneurial approach to real estate development and
management, delivering and sustaining successful projects across a wide range of property
types and across the country. Spinoso’s robust portfolio includes work on hundreds of
enclosed shopping malls, lifestyle centers, and large-scale retail projects from coast to
