If you were one of the thousands of people lined up along Wellington’s Forest Hill Boulevard during the 2024 Wellington Holiday Parade on Sunday, December 8, you probably saw the red convertible with the parade’s Grand Marshall sitting on the back seat. That tall, distinguished gentleman was former, 40-year Wellington resident Dennis Witkowski. He was the perfect choice as the Grand Marshall since it was the 40th edition of the Wellington Holiday Parade, which is an event that he founded, directed, and organized for its first 35 years.
Witkowski and his wife Maureen now live in Palm Beach Gardens in order to be closer to their grandchildren. But, part of their hearts and souls remain in Wellington.
Outside of being a parade organizer, Witkowski is well known in two other different pursuits: basketball and restaurants.
Back in the late 1960s, Witkowski was a college student at Fordham University in New York. In addition to studying for a degree, Witkowski used his 6’ 8” frame to play for Fordham’s men’s basketball team. He was a tall, strong and talented player. He’s still tall and strong, but probably not as talented, by his own admission. In college, Witkowski played in a number of big games against strong teams in well-known arenas around the country. As a junior and as a senior, he played in the NIT (National Invitation Tournament) at Madison Square Garden when it was a rival to the NCAA Tournament.
As a sophomore, Witkowski and his Ram teammates traveled to Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts to play the 10th-ranked Eagles from Boston College, where they defeated the Eagles, 85-81. In that same year, Fordham took a road trip to Greensboro, North Carolina to play North Carolina State University. Fordham prevailed, 65-63. And, on two occasions in his sophomore year, Fordham played Army and, unfortunately, lost both games. Army’s head coach at the time was future coaching legend Bobby Knight and Army’s point guard in those games was future collegiate and U.S. Olympic basketball coaching legend, Mike Krzyzewski, aka, Coach K, who led Duke University to five NCAA national championships during his long and decorated coaching career.
As a junior, Witkowski’s most vivid memory took place on March 19, 1968.
“We played the University of Dayton, led by Hall of Fame head coach Don Donoher, in the quarterfinals of the NIT in Madison Square Garden,” recalls Witkowski. “We had defeated Duquesne two days prior in the first round of the NIT and our team was on a five-game winning streak, but we lost a heartbreaker to the Flyers, 61-60. Their best player was All-American Donnie May. They eventually won the NIT, beating JoJo White and the Kansas Jayhawks in the final. JoJo later had a long career with the NBA’s Boston Celtics.”
In his senior year at Fordham, the Rams had a number of big-time wins – defeating Syracuse, Seton Hall, Connecticut, George Washington, and Pittsburgh. Another satisfying win came against Army on February 4, 1969 when Witkowski and his fellow Rams defeated the Cadets, 52-42, which were led, again, by Coach Knight and senior point guard Krzyzewski. Witkowski’s senior year came to an end at Madison Square Garden in the first round of the NIT when they lost to Louisville, 73-70. Not many people can say that their last college basketball game was played in Madison Square Garden, but, Dennis Witkowski, now 77, certainly can.
After graduating from Fordham in 1969, the most memorable part of his basketball career was on the horizon. In 1970 and 1971, he was a member of the Washington Generals (aka, New Jersey Reds, Chicago Demons, and the United States All Stars), the regular ‘opponent’ for the Harlem Globetrotters. Witkowski played against Frederick ‘Curly’ Neal and Meadowlark Lemon, two of the greatest Harlem Globetrotters of all time. He quickly became great friends with both Neal and Lemon, as they traveled, played, ate, and partied together.
Harlem Globetrotters International, Inc. (PRNewsFoto/Harlem Globetrotters)
“Being with the Globetrotters was like being a part of one big family,” recalled Witkowski, whose nickname was Wit. “There was a closeness to our group which included both teams, our referees, the public address announcer, and others.”
As a member of the Generals, he lived a ‘jet-set’ existence.
“In two years, I played in 500 basketball games in 45 states and 15 countries. We often played seven days a week and sometimes two games on a Sunday,” recalled Witkowski.
He will never forget the summer of 1970 which was spent playing basketball in western Europe. The tour included a memorable week in England.
“We played 10 games in seven days at the Wembley Arena in London,” recalled Witkowski. “Two of our games were broadcast ‘live’ on the BBC. People thought that we were the second-best basketball team in the world.”
On that same European tour, he’ll never forget the trip to Rome.
“In Rome, we played in an open-air arena under the stars in an old ancient Roman coliseum where the court was surrounded by statues of great Roman athletes,” said Witkowski. “The Italians love basketball. And, they loved the Globetrotters.”
After two years on the road, Witkowski came home to play more basketball.
He signed a contract with the Pittsburgh Pipers of the old American Basketball Association (ABA). That didn’t last long as the Pipers soon folded. Then, he found another basketball playing opportunity in the old Eastern League.
After retiring from playing basketball, Witkowski transitioned into the restaurant business. His restaurant career has been longer and more profitable than his basketball-playing career. He got his start as a singing waiter at The Red Onion in Manhattan. Years later, his restaurant career brought him to Wellington where he was the original owner of Cobblestones.
Currently, he’s retired from a full-time restaurant career. He and Maureen are returning to gyms in Palm Beach County, as they now spend time watching their grandchildren play basketball games. Those venues remind him of his days playing against the Harlem Globetrotters as he whistles to the tunes of “Sweet Georgia Brown,” the theme song of the Harlem Globetrotters. But, don’t ask him to sing it!
For Witkowski, he’s still in the restaurant business as he maintains a controlling interest in the Stadium Grill in Jupiter.
Without a doubt, two of the most famous people that he met while playing basketball and owning restaurants were Wilt Chamberlain and actor Paul Newman.
“While I was playing against the Globetrotters, Wilt Chamberlain, who used to play for the Globetrotters, would stop by to play cards with us in the locker room. Wilt was my favorite basketball player,” recalled Witkowski. “And, when I owned Cobblestones, Paul Newman walked in with friends to eat one day. His closing comments to me were “Good chow, good chow.”
Thinking ahead, Witkowski would be the perfect choice as the Grand Marshall for the 41st edition of the Wellington Holiday Parade in December 2025, with a basketball and restaurant menu in hand.
Curiosity and the desire to push the limits of knowledge further are the bedrock of medical advancement.
Hair-growth treatment Minoxidil started as a drug created to help reduce high blood pressure, Valium originated in the Victorian-era as a fabric dye and most recently, Ozempic which was initially approved for Type 2 diabetes is now being used for weight loss.
Wellington-based medical practice Advanced Surgical Physicians launched a weight loss program in June 2024 and it has blossomed into a successful program which is changing lives for Palm Beach County residents.
“I started the program because of my own experience with compounded Tirzepatide,” said Ilene Shapiro, office manager at Advanced Surgical Physicians.
Tirzepatide, commonly known by the brand names Mounjaro and ZepBound, is a GLP-1 receptor agonist known for its effectiveness in weight management and improving related health conditions.
“I’ve used Tirzepatide and the results have been amazing,” Ilene said. “It’s not just about the weight loss—my inflammation markers improved, and many symptoms of my autoimmune disorder disappeared.”
Seeing these results, practice partner Andrew Shapiro, MD started to research and discovered the medication could also help his breast cancer patients struggling with the side effects of hormonal therapy.
In addition to weight gain, side effects also include fatigue, joint pain and difficulty maintaining weight loss despite lifestyle changes.
“We wanted to ensure our patients could access the benefits of GLP-1 medications, receive proper support, and trust the quality of their prescriptions,” Ilene says.
“It is magical,” said program participant Emily (not her real name), a breast cancer survivor on hormonal therapy for nine years who has been on the program for about three months. “I have started to feel normal again”
The ASP weight loss program isn’t just for patients of the practice and is open to anyone without a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or personal history of gastroparesis.
“Our initial goal was to enroll 20 patients by the end of 2024,” Ilene said. “We surpassed that goal and now have 51 patients enrolled and thriving!”
The program has been particularly beneficial for breast cancer patients dealing with weight-related issues caused by hormonal therapy. “This medication and program give patients a way to regain control of their health,” Ilene emphasizes.
By partnering with a trusted pharmacy for compounded Tirzepatide, the Advanced Surgical Physicians program ensures patients receive effective, high-quality treatment. The program’s comprehensive support is designed to help patients succeed in their weight loss journey while improving their overall well-being.
A Portion of Proceeds will Benefit the Historical Society of Palm Beach County
(West Palm Beach, FL – December 23, 2024) For all Frank Sinatra fans looking for a ring-a-ding-ding good time packed with scooby-doobie-doo delights, Rat Pack Trivia Night at The Ben is the perfect, tune-packed place to be. The super fun event will be held on Wednesday, January 8, 5:30 to 7:30 pm, at The Ben, the luxurious hotel located at 251 N. Narcissus Avenue in downtown West Palm Beach.
Sponsored by Legends Radio and hosted by the station’s popular morning queens Angela Manfredi and Toni May, Rat Pack Trivia Night At The Ben will also featureMaster Showman Rob Russell, who is widely recognized as “Mr. Palm Beach” and will sing much-loved songs from the Rat Pack period, accompanied by Ike Reeves.
All participants—from “Just Friends” to “Strangers in the Night”—are encouraged to test their trivia knowledge while enjoying two complimentary drinks (wine, beer, or soft drinks) and delectable small bites. A cash bar will be available for additional drink purchases.
The fun and informative duo can be heard live on Legends Mornings at 100.3 FM Monday-Friday from 6 am to 10 am—four hours of laughter, chat, and special guests, along with audience-favorite music from the Great American Song Book.
+ Angela Manfredi was an entertainment correspondent covering red carpet events in Los Angeles before coming to Legends Radio. In addition to her on-air work and social media presence, she is the media ambassador for Dress for Success of the Palm Beaches and her hobby is ballroom dancing which includes performances on WXEL – PBS for South Florida on Dick Robinson’s “Music by the Sea.”
+ Toni May is the Emmy Award-winning television journalist who spent three decades in the broadcast industry working in Los Angeles, for ABC News, and as a member of several local news departments. She spent 15 years as producer and host of lifestyle shows on WXEL-TV winning a regional Emmy Award, a Society of Professional Journalist award, an Associated Press award for best public affairs show in the state, and a prestigious NETA Award as best public affairs show in the nation.
About Rob Russell:
For several years now, Rob has headlined a monthly Open Mic series at Café Centro in West Palm Beach, where he introduces music numbers from talented people in the audience including occasional surprise celebrity pals such as Tony® and Grammy® award winners and his all-star cabaret chums. He spent nearly two decades as producer and emcee of the world-famous Royal Room Cabaret at The Colony Hotel before launching his own career as a singer, recording artist (his popular CD Hello Again), and—after graduating top in his class at the Connecticut School of Broadcasting—as Dick Robinson’s fill-in tune-spinner on Legends Radio 100.3 FM
About Legends 100.3FM:
Legends 100.3 is a full power, live and local FM radio station based in Florida’s beautiful Palm Beaches, playing the music of the Great American Songbook with artists including Frank Sinatra, Michael Bublé, Ella Fitzgerald, Diana Krall, Harry Connick, Jr., Vic Damone, Sammy Davis Jr., Jack Jones, Rod Stewart, Tony Bennett, Lady Gaga and many more. For more information, please visit www.legendsradio.com.
It’s easy enough to think of new year’s resolutions for ourselves, but what about resolutions for our furry friend? In this month’s article, I outline five new year’s resolutions for you and your dog—from more movement to even more snuggles.
1. More exercise!
Let’s be honest, we could all use a little more fresh air, movement and time away from our desks or couches. And no matter the breed, dogs need daily exercise to keep them happy, healthy, and out of trouble. In fact, pets who exercise regularly are less prone to obesity, injuries, and destructive behavior. Plus, physical activity is good for us! So, make the time to get outside. You can even break away from the usual routine and try a pet-friendly hike or new route through town. While we’re talking about it, can I add something here? Get off your phone during your walks! Your dog looks forward to going outside with you—so stop texting and make a commitment to be fully present with them.
2. More socialization
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve walked Buddy and Sapphire past another dog that randomly starts barking at us. While occasional barking and vocal sounds are normal, having a reactive or unsocialized dog is another story. And while this is a complex issue, being able to play and get along well with others is crucial. By introducing your pet to others, you help them build confidence as they acclimate to new sights, scents, and sounds. They also learn how to behave better. There are many ways to socialize your pup, no matter their age. You can bring them to a dog park or try 1-2 times a week at daycare. Plus, all that playtime with other pups will tucker them out. A tired dog is a happy dog!
3. Less table scrap, more healthy snacks
It’s tempting to treat our pups to a few bites of turkey or steak during the holidays or a sampling of ice cream. Still, human food isn’t good for pets. In addition to upsetting their stomachs, it can lead to weight gain and bad behavior, like begging or eating a piece of food on the ground that they shouldn’t. Too many scraps can also make a dog’s teeth, gums, and breath worse. So, instead of reaching for a piece of deli meat or giving them a lick of gravy as a special treat, give your dog a couple of carrot sticks, cucumber slices, or blueberries! You can even make homemade frozen treats at home every once in a while. “Bone” appétit!
4. More time together
Our dog may only be a part of our lives, but we are our dog’s entire world. Let’s collectively make a resolution to spend less time on our devices and more time with our pups. Whether it’s an extra five minutes of snuggle time in the morning or an after-work fetch or dog park session, let’s spend more time hanging with our pets. After all, they love us with their whole hearts. Since we love them just as much, it’s only fitting that we show them how much we love them—by spending quality time together.
5. Taking the dog with us
Why should humans get to have all the fun? Most dogs love car rides, so why not bring Fido with you on your next adventure? New sights, smells, and sounds are good for their mental stimulation. And in today’s world, outdoor dining and dog-friendly experiences abound, especially thanks to South Florida’s year-round beautiful weather. Check out a local brewery (here’s a list of some pet-friendly ones in Palm Beach County) or a dog beach for some swimming, running, or fetch. You can even bring them to the sporting goods store or Home Depot next time you need a new tool for your home improvement project. Or, take your dog to dinner—many restaurants allow pets on their outdoor patios. Just call ahead to confirm.
The Wellington Art Society is pleased to present an ARTISTS’ RECEPTION AND SALE at the Wellington CommunityCenter, located at 12150 Forest Hill Blvd, Wellington on Tuesday, January 7, 2024, 5-7pm. Additional artwork will be featured at City Hall the same night. The event is FREE and open to the public! Artwork may also be seen currently at both venues daily at the Wellington Community Center and City Hall.
Celebrate Creativity!
Meet the Artists– People’s Choice Awards – Refreshments- Door Prizes
Appreciate and support our amazing group of Local Artists
Enjoy lively conversation with the 26 artists whose work expresses mastery and originality in painting, drawing, photography, mixed media, and more.
Diane Colvard – Sofia Gangale – Cynthia George – Jan Gmitter – Garrett Jay – Erica Kyle
Lou Ann LaBohn – Linda Landers – Joe Marcou – Dinah L Mirson – Astrid Mora – Susan Mosely
Charles E Moses – Susan Oakes – Juan Plaza – Cliff Powell – Marion Roberts – Vasantha Siva
Raymonde Talleyrand – Cindi Taylor – Maya White
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The Wellington Art Society is a non-profit charitable organization in its 43rd year. It is open to artists of all mediums and patrons of the arts, allowing both local and regional artists to display their artwork in local galleries, interact with other artists and serve the community through their art.
Over 11 days SASIFF will offer 1 USA Premiere, 11 Florida Premieres, 1 South Florida Premiere, 6 Palm Bech County Premieres, and 8 North Palm Beach County Premieres.
The Kravis Center’s Rinker Playhouse will host 18 Premieres (January 23-30) at 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm Beach 33401.
EVO Entertainment Delray Marketplace will host 9 Premieres (January 31-February 2) at 14775 Lyons Road in Delray Beach 33446
USA Premiere
THE KISS
(Kysset)
(Historical Drama, 2022, USA Premiere. Directed by Bille August. Denmark, 116-minutes – In Danish with English subtitles)
Oscar-winning director August (Pelle The Conqueror) adapts Stefan Zweig’s best-selling novel Beware of Pity as THE KISS. In 1913 Denmark, as World War I is brewing, Anton (Esben Smed), an aristocratic but penniless cavalry officer helps Baron Lovenskjold (Lars Mikkelsen) out of a jam and earns a place as a favored guest at his castle. Attracted to the baron’s vivacious niece but showering solicitous attention on Edith, his beautiful wheelchair-bound daughter, Anton is soon caught in a trap of his own making when the grateful young heiress mistakes kindness for love. Demonstrating his signature talent for historical drama, August makes superb use of authentic Danish locations including the Ravnholt Estate and Lykkesholm Castle. Co-starring David Dencik and Clara Rosager.
Thursday, January 30 – 4 pm / The Kravis Center’s Rinker Playhouse
Florida Premiere
BUSHIDO
(Gobangiri)
(Historical Drama, 2024, Florida Premiere. Directed by Kazuya Shiraishi. Japan, 129-minutes – In Japanese with English subtitles)
This reinvented samurai tale set in feudal Japan is steeped in history and the samurai code, and offers wrenching family sacrifice, dastardly betrayal, thrilling swordplay, and a look at the strategies of the chess-like Japanese board game of Go. A widowed samurai unjustly disgraced and ejected from his clan through the betrayal of a jealous rival lives in obscurity. Eking out a living as a humble craftsman, his masterful skill at the game of Go brings him unwanted attention. Once more the target of a false accusation, he is forced to defend his honor and save his daughter. Co-starring Masachika Ischimura and Kaya Kiyohara. “A profound exploration of feudal Japan… a must-see for longtime fans of samurai cinema”—Movie Pulse.
Sunday, February 2 – 4 pm / EVO Entertainment Delray Marketplace
ETERNAL YOU
(Documentary, 2024, Florida Premiere. Directed by Hans Block and Moritz Riesewieck. Germany/USA, 87-minutes – In English and Korean with English subtitles)
This is an incisive look at the ways artificial intelligence technology is transforming the ways humans deal with death. A new industry offers the tempting opportunity to allegedly communicate with deceased loved ones by way of an avatar that appears to channel their voices, current thoughts, emotions and memories. In uncanny and increasingly unsettling encounters, including with the mom who would go to any lengths to again hug her dead child, the filmmakers survey the startling and sometimes shocking experiences of users. Interviews with multiple developers of the technology skirt around the ethical implications while eagerly plunging into the future. “This thought-provoking and bang-up-to-the-minute documentary explores a morally questionable use of AI… on the knife-edge between thrilling innovation and cynical recklessness” – The Guardian.
Friday, January 31 – 4 pm / EVO Entertainment Delray Marketplace
FIRST CASE
(Drama, 2023, Florida Premiere. Directed by Victoria Musiedlak. France, 98-minutes – In French with English subtitles)
This is a thrillingly tangled web of ethical dilemmas and necessary lies, all held together by the glue of eroticism and the dark lure of the forbidden. Nora, a newly minted lawyer straight out of law school, is assigned to defend a 19-year-old accused of kidnapping and murder. Running interference with the brutally aggressive cop who is handling the interrogation, she soon finds herself as frighteningly stranded in unknown territory as the boy she is representing. Nora’s vulnerability leaves her wide open to the bold sexual advances of her nemesis, who sees her inexperience as his advantage. “Never a dull moment, and certainly no easy answers in this stunning first feature”—Filmuforia.
Friday, January 31 – 1 pm / EVO Entertainment Delray Marketplace
THE FRENCH ITALIAN
(Comedy, 2024, Florida Premiere. Directed by Rachel Wolther. USA, 92-minutes)
The Closing Night Film of SASIFF 2025. A white lie about a plate of cookies is the first tipoff to the flexible ethics of 30-something Manhattan hipsters Valerie (Catherine Cohen) and Doug (Aristotle Athari). Trouble brews in the haven of their Upper West Side rent-controlled apartment when horrendous noise from below begins to punctuate their days. Rather than confronting the couple downstairs, the pair plan to trap their neighbor’s actress girlfriend with a complex revenge scheme involving auditions and rehearsals for a non-existent play. Spinning a comic clash of New York types and lifestyles, director/co-writer Wolther escalates the action to the tipping point of a fake opening night, where Emmy-nominated comedian Ikechukwu Ufomadu manages to steal the show in a tour de force performance. Co-starring Chloe Cherry. “The funniest New York movie in years”—The Daily Beast.
Actor Ikechukwu “Ike” Ufomadu will be present for audience discussion.
Sunday, February 2 – 7 pm / EVO Entertainment Delray Marketplace
HOLY COW
(Vingt Dieux)
(Drama/Comedy, 2024, Florida Premiere. Directed by Louise Courvoisier. France, 90-minutes – In French with English subtitles)
Winner of the Youth Prize at the 2024 Cannes International Film Festival, HOLY COW is a rough and ready coming of age film with a foodie angle, set in the Jura region of France, renowned for its famed Comté cheese and hearty cuisine. Totone (Clément Faveau), a rude red-haired rascal, is forced by a tragedy to become guardian of his little sister and the failing family farm. The making and maturation of the cheese serves as an apt metaphor for the trajectory of the story and its zesty romance. A competition for best Comté cheese is a crafty strategy for giving viewers a fascinating glimpse of a little-known aspect of French country culture. “A joyful, earthy coming-of-age film about one of the most important things in life: good food”—Filmuforia.
Saturday, February 1 – 7 pm / EVO Entertainment Delray Marketplace
HOUSEWIFE OF THE YEAR
(Documentary, 2024, Florida Premiere. Directed by Cierán Cassidy. Ireland, 77-minutes)
Winner of Best Irish Feature Documentary at the 2024 Galway Film Fleadh. From 1968 to 1995, Irish television annually featured the “Housewife of the Year” contest in which mostly-middle-aged mothers of many children competed for the crown and sash and the grand prize of a gas range after demonstrating their skill in household arts including preparing a simple meal. Scenes from the show’s history range from humorously kitsch to shockingly sad, revealing a life with parameters strictly proscribed by society and the Catholic church, and in which motherhood was not optional. The film’s present-day encounters with surviving winners revive mixed memories while delving into once-forbidden subjects including virginity and marriage, unwed motherhood, contraception and husbands wedded to the pub.
Saturday, January 25 – 1 pm / The Kravis Center’s Rinker Playhouse
JULIE KEEPS QUIET
(Drama, 2024, Florida Premiere. Directed by Leonardo Van Dijl. Belgium/Sweden, 100-minutes – In Dutch and French with English subtitles)
The official Belgian submission for 2025 Oscar consideration, in this coming-of-age film a scandal rocks an elite tennis academy where a popular coach is suspended under suspicion of sexually grooming his teen proteges. News of the suicide of one of them breaks and all eyes are on Julie, the young rising star long perceived to be his favorite. While not primarily a sports film, the vigorous and beautifully shot match sequences provide an apt metaphor for a conflict that plays out wrenchingly in Julie’s head. First-time actress and real-life tennis champ Tessa Van den Broeck turns in a remarkable performance as the talented but isolated young woman struggling with conflicting loyalties and a guilty secret as her future hangs in the balance. Co-starring Pierre Gervais. “A riveting psychological drama, slow burn intensity”—The Hollywood Reporter
Sunday, January 26 – 4 pm / The Kravis Center’s Rinker Playhouse
LIZA: A TRULY TERRIFIC AND ABSOLUTELY TRUE STORY
(Documentary / 2024, Florida Premiere. Directed by Bruce David Klein. USA, 104-minutes)
(Drama, 2023, Florida Premiere. Directed by Pat Collins. Ireland, UK, 111-minutes)
Seasoned documentary filmmaker Collins (Song of Granite), whose earlier work has explored disappearing aspects of Irish culture, turns to fiction with this adaptation of John McGahern’s novel. Joe (Barry Ward) and Kate (Anna Bederke) abandon trendy London careers for a quiet life in the Irish countryside where Joe was born and where the seasons rule the rhythm of their days. The locals regard them with suspicion, especially when they aren’t seen at the village church. Collins delves deep for the old stories of belonging, departure and return. The cast includes veteran actors of the Irish stage and screen, including Lalor Roddy, Ruth McCabe, Brendan Conroy, Seán McGinley, and more. Best Film, 2024 Irish Film and Television Awards. “The Emerald Isle has rarely looked greener”—Eye for Film.
Monday, January 27 – 7 pm / The Kravis Center’s Rinker Playhouse
THERE’S STILL TOMORROW
(Comedy/Drama, 2023, Florida Premiere. Directed by Paola Cortellesi. Italy, 118-minutes – In Italian with English subtitles)
Shot in black-and-white with a look that mimics the style of Italian Neorealism by Cortellisi, a multitalented popular star who cast herself as a longsuffering working-class wife and mother in mid-1940s Rome. This dark comedy riffs on the stereotypical image of a family under the thumb of a tyrannical father and irascible grandfather, with domestic violence staged for rueful laughs, but the wife just may have the last laugh when she receives a mysterious letter that holds the earth-shaking promise of change. Special Jury Award, Audience Award, 2024 Rome Film Festival. “With some nail-biting suspense…this is storytelling with terrific confidence and panache”—The Guardian.
Friday, January 31 – 7 pm / EVO Entertainment Delray Marketplace
YASMEEN’S ELEMENT
(Drama, 2024, Florida Premiere. Directed by Amman Abbasi. USA, Pakistan, Portugal, 76-minutes – In Urdu with English subtitles)
The beauty of northern Pakistan’s mountainous Hunza Valley region is the breathtaking backdrop to this colorful tale of an earnest child’s pursuit of her lost homework assignment, unaware that the Taliban is enacting a restrictive new plan for her future in her very own village. Loosely adapted from journalist Jeffrey E. Stern’s nonfiction book The Last Thousand, this drama follows Yasmeen, a lively 12-year-old eager student in search of her teacher’s home and encountering baffled neighbors, preoccupied medical workers, and men dismissive of her mission. The film’s allegorical aspect is subtle yet ultimately clear when the next school day dawns for Yasmeen and her friends. Starring Eshal Fatima. “An enthralling escapade… transfixing”—IndieWire.
Wednesday, January 29 – 4 pm / The Rinker Playhouse at the Kravis Center
South Florida Premiere
BROKEN DOLLS
(Documentary / Jewish, 2023, South Florida Premiere. Directed by Tracy Whipple and Gilles Bovon. USA, 82-minutes)
A mother’s obscured past become a daughter’s call to action in reconstructing a history altered by the Holocaust. In 1939, a mysterious benefactor enables a seven-year-old Jewish girl and her mother to escape Nazi Germany on a ship for Shanghai, where they face deprivation and an uncertain future. In the Jewish Ghetto of the international Chinese city, the child spends a decade reinventing herself. Decades later, now herself a mother with an established life in Florida, she comes full circle, seeking to lay claim to her past. In the complex quest to reclaim her German citizenship, the discovery of a shocking secret adds a new perspective to her life story.
Note: Director Tracy Whipple will be present for audience discussion.
Sunday, February 2 – 1 pm / EVO Entertainment Delray Marketplace
Palm Beach County Premiere
DAYS OF HAPPINESS
(Les Jours Heureaux)
(Drama / LGBTQ+, 2023, Palm Beach County Premiere. Directed by Chloe Robichaud. Canada, 118-minutes – In French with English subtitles)
The privileged world of classical music is the setting for drama on and off the concert stage as a young rising star conductor played by Sophie Desmarais makes a misstep that may put her dream of a prestigious new job in peril. A controversial program for the final concert of her residency triggers a fraught confrontation with her personal demons, including her relationships with her controlling father/manager and her lesbian lover. Desmarais was coached by conductors Yannick Nézet-Séguin, Kensho Watanabe, and Nicolas Ellis to master her conducting movements. The film’s soaring music includes pieces by Mozart, Schoenberg, and Mahler. “An effective (and affecting) drama that boasts a spellbinding performance at its core”—Reel Film Reviews
Friday, January 24 – 1 pm / The Rinker Playhouse at the Kravis Center
EX-HUSBANDS
(Drama/Comedy, 20234, Palm Beach County Premiere. Directed by Noah Pritzker. USA, 98-minutes)
Griffin Dunne (After Hours, An American Werewolf in London) leads a predominantly male ensemble cast in a wryly humorous tale revolving around questions of women and the lack thereof. There’s a straight line drawn between soon-to-be-married and soon-to-be-ex for three generations of men in the Pearce family. Elderly patriarch Simon (Richard Benjamin) has recently exited a 65-year union; grandson Nick is heading for the altar with a load of doubts, and the marriage of father-of-the-groom Peter (Dunne) is in the rearview mirror. Nick and pals head for a stag weekend in a Mexican resort, where Peter shows up as the uninvited guest. Soul-searching starts at the bottom of a glass for this gang and romance may be on the menu for Peter. Rosanna Arquette co-stars. “Dunne is the main event with his charming portrayal”—Eye for Film.
Sunday, January 26 – 7 pm / The Rinker Playhouse at the Kravis Center
MY SUNSHINE
(Boku No Ohisama)
(Drama / LGBTQ+, 2024, Palm Beach County Premiere. Directed by Hiroshi Okuyama. Japan, 100-minutes – In Japanese with English subtitles)
The enduring appeal of ice-dancing casts a spell over a film steeped in the bittersweet nostalgia of first love. Set at a small-town skating rink in picturesquely wintry Hokkaido, Japan, the film starring Keitatsu Koshiyama and Kiara Takanashi sets up a delicate triangle of association between two young skaters and their coach, with emotional fallout for all three. For Takuya, a bullied loner, it’s love at first sight when he spies Sakura, a girl his own age gliding and twirling to the strains of Claire de Lune. The coach senses the chance to recruit an ice-dancing partner for his most talented protege. Unrequited adolescent crushes have unforeseen consequences, however, when Sakura begins to understand that the handsome coach she dreams of is gay. “Profoundly moving”—RobertEbert.com.
Saturday, February 1 – 1 pm / EVO Entertainment Delray Marketplace
TROLL STORM
(Documentary / Jewish, 2023, Palm Beach County Premiere. Directed by Eunice Law. USA, 83-minutes)
A Montana realtor’s win in a groundbreaking First Amendment court case that struck a blow to white supremacy and neo-Nazism is charted in this searing documentary. Tanya Gersh, a wife, mom, and successful businesswoman, becomes the target of a smear campaign initially launched by a neighbor. Outsider far-right extremists jump into the act, sensing an opportunity for grandstanding their antisemitic agenda. Gersh’s contact information and location is released nationally in a hate publication, resulting in a cyber storm of death threats and harassment that cause the family to fear for their safety. Steeled by a knowledge of history and a sense of solidarity with Holocaust survivors, Gersh digs in and chooses to fight back.
Note: Tanya Gersh will be present for audience discussion.
Wednesday, January 29 – 7 pm / The Rinker Playhouse at the Kravis Center
UNIVERSAL LANGUAGE
(Un Langue Universelle)
(Comedy, 2024, Palm Beach County Premiere. Directed by Matthew Rankin. Canada, 89-minutes – In Persian and French with English subtitles)
Winner of the first-ever Directors Fortnight Audience Award at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, and Canada’s official submission for the upcoming Oscar competition, UNIVERSAL LANGUAGE casts a strange comic spell in a lovingly bizarre tribute to Iranian cinema. In the surreal alternative universe of director Rankin, set in a time warp that weirdly resembles 1980s Canada, Persian is now the national language. A dweeby bureaucrat quits his government job and heads home to Winnipeg, bastion of prize-winning turkeys, abandoned monuments and Tim Horton’s shops serving tea from samovars. Asides, subplots and scores of delightful sight gags make this one of the most original and unforgettable films of the year. “A magnificent film, one that feels warm and familiar even as we realize just how startlingly original it is” – New York Magazine.
Saturday, February 1 – 4 pm /EVO Entertainment Delray Marketplace
WILD DIAMOND
(Diamant Brut)
(Drama, 2024, Palm Beach County Premiere. Directed by Agathe Riedinger. France, 103-minutes – In French with English subtitles)
Selected to compete for the Palm d’Or in the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, WILD DIAMOND represents a daring new generation of go-for-broke French female directors. Liane (Malou Khébizi), a working-class teen in the south of France, lives for social media and aspires to Kardashian glitz styled from tawdry shoplifted booty. Although her online persona is brash and cartoonishly sexy, Liane is paradoxically an innocent, never more so than when she is led on by the scout for a TV reality show in search of new talent. Writer/director Riedinger poignantly creates a unique portrait of a wannabe influencer hungry for the endless fame of the internet. “A startling bold and true French drama.. the audience feels blessed by the arrival of a filmmaker this accomplished”—Variety.
Tuesday, January 28 – 4 pm / The Rinker Playhouse at the Kravis Center
North Palm Beach County Premiere
AUCTION
(Le Tableau Volé)
(Drama, 2024, North Palm Beach County Premiere. Directed by Pascal Bonitzer. France, 91-minutes – In French, English, and German with English subtitles)
The issue of the return of Nazi-looted art to its rightful heirs makes this high-stakes art world drama as current as international headlines. A wily Paris art auctioneer gets wind of an alleged Egon Schiele painting stolen in 1939 but now come to light in a small working-class suburb. Writer/director Bonitzer creates a web of intrigue in which money over morals threatens to prevail. Worth millions if authentic, the painting triggers fevered ambition on the part of the auctioneer, his ruthless art appraiser ex-wife, and his emotionally unstable assistant. Between the auction house and the American heirs of the painting’s original owners stands a naïve and earnest young factory worker, the painting’s current owner. Co-starring Alex Lutz, Louise Chevilotte, Léa Drucker. “A ripped-from-the-headlines ensemble drama set in the crosshairs of art and high finance”—Variety.
Saturday, January 25 – 4 pm / The Rinker Playhouse at the Kravis Center
BAD SHABBOS
(Comedy / Jewish, 2024, North Palm Beach County Premiere. Directed by Daniel Robbins. USA, 84-minutes)
The Centerpiece Night of SASIFF presents the Audience Award winner at the 2024 Tribeca Film Festival. This funny film showcases family dysfunction, religious disparity and sibling rivalry when a family on the Upper West Side invite the Midwestern Catholic family of their eldest son’s fiancée to a Shabbos dinner for a first social blending of the clans. With tensions simmering, kosher klutziness and a prank gone wrong set the scene for chaos. By the time that there’s a dead body on the bathroom floor it starts to look like Agatha Christie-meets-Woody Allen. Kyra Sedgwick is a quirky standout as an obsessive matriarch, and Cliff “Method Mad” Smith of Wu Tang Clan excels as a helpful doorman. “One of the funniest movies films ever to take place during a Shabbos dinner”—Solzy at the Movies.
Thursday, January 30 – 7 pm / The Kravis Center’s Rinker Playhouse
THE GLORY OF LIFE
(Die Herrlichkeit Des Lebens)
(Historical Drama / Jewish, 2024, North Palm Beach County Premiere. Directed by Judith Kaufmann and Georg Maas. Germany/Austria, 98-minutes – In German with English subtitles)
A tender love story with Franz Kafka at the center would seem to run counter to the popular image of the author of such deeply paranoid works as The Metamorphosis and The Trial as a solitary, alienated man. For the filmmakers of THE GLORY OF LIFE, that is precisely the point as this bittersweet tragic tale unfolds the loving and life-affirming relationship between 40-year-old Kafka, already in poor health with tuberculosis, and Dora Diamant, the young children’s caregiver he meets in 1923. From the early days of their passionate attraction through a forced separation and a final reuniting in wintry Berlin, love, faith and humor come to the fore with a lightness that puts Kafka’s personal story in a new perspective. Co-starring Sabin Tabrea and Henriette Confurius.
Saturday, January 25 – 7 pm / The Rinker Playhouse at the Kravis Center
MIDAS MAN
(Musical Biopic of The Beatles / 2024, North Palm Beach County Premiere. Directed by Joe Stephenson. UK, 112-minutes)
Often called “the Fifth Beatle,” manager/impresario Brian Epstein burned brightly as the man who catapulted the Fab Four to international fame then tragically died at 32. This brisk and wonderfully evocative film is a fictionalized capsule of early Beatles history from Liverpool’s grungy Cavern Club to the flower-power years, set against the background of Epstein’s short life. Jewish, closeted gay, and energized by the rocking tunes of the underground culture, Epstein (Jacob Fortune-Lloyd) talks his way into managing the band of four scruffy lads. Also starring Emily Watson, Eddie Izzard, and Jay Leno as Ed Sullivan, MIDAS MAN brings to life one beloved chapter in the rock ‘n’ roll story with color and spirit, underlining the toll success took on the man who made it happen.
Friday, January 24 – 7 pm / The Rinker Playhouse at the Kravis Center
NEVER ALONE
(El Koskaan Yskin)
(Drama / Jewish, 2025, North Palm Beach County Premiere. Directed by Klaus Härö. Finland, 85-minues – In Swedish, Yiddish, Russian, Hebrew, English, Finnish, and German with English subtitles.)
Many heroes of Jewish resistance to the Nazis are still relatively unknown decades after WWII. In the hands of director Härö (The Fencer), the story of a risky maneuver by Jewish Helsinki businessman Abraham Stiller to save the lives of eight refugees comes to the screen with immense heart and impressive period veracity. Even as Finland appeared to be a haven for Jews fleeing the Nazis, the government forms an alliance with Nazi Germany against Russia. Stiller, wealthy, respected, and well-connected in political circles, calls in every favor and puts his life, reputation and business on the line to mount a clandestine mission to save the eight Jewish men scheduled for deportation to a death camp. Co-starring Ville Virtane and Karl Hietalahti.
Tuesday, January 28 – 7 pm / The Rinker Playhouse at the Kravis Center
OF DOGS AND MEN
(Al Klavim Veanashim)
(Drama / Jewish, 2024, North Palm Beach County Premiere. Directed by Dani Rosenberg. Israel, Italy, 82-minutes – In Hebrew with English subtitles)
Following the October 7 attacks, Israeli director Rosenberg (The Vanishing Soldier) felt compelled to process the emotions and the pain by making a film. Operating from a fictional framework but within the total reality of place, 16-year-old Dar (Ori Avinoam, the production’s only professional actor) travels to the ravaged Nir Oz Kibbutz within sight of the border in search of her lost dog. The missing dog stands in for many things that cannot be spoken of, including the disappearance of Dar’s mother. The girl’s many encounters include soldiers, an outspoken taxi driver, an 80-year-old kibbutz resident, and a woman who rescues abandoned pets. All are real non-actors whose presence and participation put a complex human face on the tragedy. Co-starring Yamit Avital. “A sober attempt to address the unthinkable, avoiding intrusiveness and sensationalism”—Screen Daily.
Monday, January 27 – 4 pm / The Rinker Playhouse at the Kravis Center
PINK LADY
(Drama / Jewish, LGBTQ+, 2024, North Palm Beach County Premiere. Directed by Nir Bergman. Israel, Italy, 106-minutes – In Hebrew with English subtitles)
Jerusalem’s ultra-Orthodox community is the setting for this story of a marriage in crisis when the husband’s secret desires are outed by criminals intent on blackmail. Bati (Nur Fibak), a mother of three happily married to devout and seriously observant Lazer (Uri Blufarb) receives a mysterious envelope in the mail containing graphic photos of her husband kissing another man. Amid denials and flimsy claims of Photoshopping, Bati takes a new look at her man. An unexpected encounter with a very unusual woman causes her to take a fresh look at herself. The film opens a Pandora’s Box of issues: Orthodox family values, homosexuality and conversion therapy.
Friday, January 24 – 4 pm / The Rinker Playhouse at the Kravis Center
YANIV
(Comedy/Jewish, 2024, North Palm Beach County Premiere. Directed by Ammon Carmi. USA, 80-minutes)
Consider a Bronx high school drama teacher getting around budget cuts by funding the school’s spring musical with illegal gambling loot. That’s the wacky plot premise cooked up by writer/director Carmi and co-writer/actor Benjamin Ducoff, a real-life NYC high school teacher. Desperate for funding, the teacher gets tipped off to a high-stakes underground gambling ring where Yaniv, “the Blackjack of the Jewish people,” is the game of choice. The catch? The secret basement nightclub is run by and for a tight-knit group of Hasidic men, and the teacher and his pal don’t have a ghost of a chance at passing, until…they don Orthodox disguises complete with fake beards, and it is game on. Co-starring Annabelle Steven. “A fun and funny thriller with a lot of heart”—FilmThreat.
Sunday, January 26 – 1 pm / The Rinker Playhouse at the Kravis Center
For more information about the SASIFF or to purchase tickets, please visit www.sasiff.org.
About The Donald M. Ephraim Sun & Stars International Film Festival:
MorseLife serves more than 3,600 seniors every day on its campus in West Palm Beach and through its community outreach programs. Founded in 1983, MorseLife is a provider of health care and residential services for seniors in Palm Beach County. A charitable, not-for-profit organization, its programs also include short-term rehabilitation, long-term care, independent and assisted living, memory care assisted living, hospice, home health care, care management, meals-on-wheels, and PACE. Since its beginnings, MorseLife has built a reputation and tradition of caring for seniors with excellence, dignity, and compassion. For more information, visit morselife.org, www.facebook.com/MorseLife, www.twitter.com/MorseLifeHealth, www.instagram.com/morselifehealth or www.linkedin.com/company/morselife-inc-/ or contact [email protected].
Kysset Directed by Bille August Nordisk Film Production Photo Credit Rolf Konow
(Photos Courtesy of Sun & Stars International Film Festival /
+ A Tour of Beloved Garden Plants with Horticulturist Matthew Boyson – January 24
+ Terrarium as an Art Therapy: Little Gems for Life – January 25
+ Story Time in the Garden – January 25
Plus:
RIBBIT THE EXHIBIT II – All Month Long
(West Palm Beach, FL – December 19, 2024) Friends of the Mounts Botanical Garden will be bursting into 2024 with 30+ healthy and horticultural classes and events throughout January, including the return of the Sacred Arts Tibetan Monks from India and our popular and frog-tastic RIBBIT THE EXHIBIT II.
“We are inviting friends and families to kick-off the new year with an eco-friendly flourish at Palm Beach County’s oldest and largest public garden—Mounts Botanical Garden, a beautiful, tranquil, 20-acre oasis located just minutes from the hustle-and-bustle of downtown West Palm,” says Mounts Executive Director James E. May.
“In addition to taking advantage of our numerous and informative horticultural classes and workshops, visitors can enjoy our multiple special exhibits – such as our delightfully whimsical RIBBIT THE EXHIBIT II, featuring 18 larger-than-life frog sculptures at work and play,” he adds.
Mounts Botanical Garden is open to the public Tuesday through Sunday from 9 am to 4 pm (with last entry at 3 pm). Admission is $20 for adults; $18 for seniors, college students and military with IDs; $13 for ages 6 to 17; and free for children under age 6, Mounts members, and RAP (reciprocal program) members.
January 4
Orchids are for Everyone Potting Workshop:
Orchids and Cold Weather
Saturday, 10:00 am to 11:15 am
$10 for members; $25 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission)
Free for Tropical Orchid Society Members with proof of Tropical Orchid Society Membership (shown on the day of class) – please register at www.mounts.org to save your spot.
Registration is required; classes are nonrefundable. Class size is limited 35 Adults
Join us for an interactive workshop conducted by members of the board of the Tropical Orchid Society. Each workshop will begin with a brief introduction followed by specific growing advice for the month followed by repotting demonstrations and Q & A. Attendees may bring one orchid to repot and the media and pot or mount they prefer to use. Orchid Potting Workshops are held in the Mounts Botanical Garden Pavilion inside the main gate next to the new Welcome Center, on the first Saturday of every month.
$25 members; $30 nonmembers (includes full Garden admission).
Registration is required; class size is limited to 15 adults; classes are nonrefundable.
Class 1: Tai Chi Intermediate Class
9:15 am to 10:15 am
This class is for those who have learned the basic Sun Style Tai Chi Forms and wish to pursue advanced Sun Style Forms. Lessons will be multi-faceted, addressing not only the external execution of the Forms, but more importantly, deepening the internal dimensions of the Forms, such as: magnifying the Qi (Life Energy) and incorporating the Internal Principles of Tai Chi: Song (loosening), Jing (mental quietude), Chen (sinking of dan-tien), and Huo (agility) which are vital to one’s well-being and healing.
In addition, we will explore another Tai Chi Form, the Yang Style.
Note: Wear sneakers or closed comfortable shoes and a loose top and pants. Please bring a towel and water.
Class 2: Tai Chi Beginner Class
10:15 am to 11:15 am
This class is designed for those new to Tai Chi or those curious about Tai Chi. You will learn basic Tai Chi principles and moves, called Forms. The primary goal is to improve your overall health and well-being, the use of mindfulness and balance through the Forms are thought to open the doors to Health and Serenity. Tai Chi is excellent for those who want a gentle, but effective exercise.
Note: Wear sneakers or closed comfortable shoes and a loose top and pants. Please bring a towel and water.
Manifest Your 2025 Vision with Cacao and Sound Healing
with Casa Rituals
Sunday, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
$35 for members; $45 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission)
Registration is required; class size is limited to 30 adults; classes are nonrefundable.
Step into 2025 with intention, gratitude, and alignment. Upon arrival, participants will receive a sacred Mayan ceremonial smudging to cleanse and release the energies of the past year, creating space for new beginnings. The Cacao Ceremony will guide you into your heart space, where you’ll anchor your dreams and goals for the year ahead, followed by a sound immersion ceremonial journey to amplify your intentions with the harmonizing energy of sound. Let this sacred experience be your foundation for manifesting a year of soulful growth, joy, and abundance.
Note:Please bring your yoga mat and blanket.Please no alcohol on the day of the ceremony and no caffeine 3 hours before and after the event.
+ General Admission January 6-10 includes full access to the Sacred Arts Tour mandala making, prayer ceremonies, and the Tibetan Marketplace for the day. A Single Day Pass is $25 per day for Nonmembers (includes Garden admission), and $5 per day for Members (Garden admission is free with membership).
+ General Admission January 11 for the Cultural Pageant and final Closing Ceremony is $30 per day for Nonmembers (includes Garden admission), and $10 per day for Members. Monk-led workshops and activities are not included with general admission pass. Saturday admission for the Cultural Pageant and Closing Mandala Dissolution Ceremony is not included.
+ Multiple Day Discount is $100 per person for Nonmembers and $20 for Members. This special pass pays for four days with the fifth free (Monday through Friday only) and includes access to daily opening and closing ceremonies, viewing the Sand Mandala construction, and authentic Tibetan Marketplace. Monk-led workshops and activities are not included with this week-long general admission pass. Saturday admission for the Cultural Pageant and Closing Mandala Dissolution Ceremony is not included.
Join us in welcoming the monks from the Drepung Gomang monastery who are renowned for the Sacred Art of Sand Mandala Construction. They will be creating a Green Tara Sand Mandala (Dol jang), which is the Female Buddha that grants protection and relief from suffering, and generates compassion, love, and peace. Construction of a mandala of this size and intricacy takes 5-7 days to complete with multiple monks working on it for 5-6 hours a day. Each day’s events include opening ceremonies and informal conversation with the monks as the mandala is created. Before and after working on the mandala each day, the monks recite prayers in the traditional overtone chanting, with each monk singing a full chord of three notes. The prayers are often accompanied by delicate hand gestures, cymbals, drums, horns, and flutes. General Admission includes full access to the Sacred Art Tour mandala making, prayer ceremonies, and the Tibetan Marketplace for the day. For complete details or to purchase tickets to the Sacred Arts Tour at Mounts Botanical Garden from January 6-11, 2025, visit https://www.mounts.org/sacred-arts-tour-drepung-gomang-monastery/.
Workshops & Activities Led by the Monks
Monday—Saturday, January 6-11 / 10:00 am to 3:00 pm
Authentic Tibetan Marketplace
The Sacred Art monks of Drepung Gomang bring with them Tibetan merchandise with Buddhist religious symbols and mantras. Much of the merchandise is made by the monks living at the monastery and helps to support those studying there with living expenses and medical care. Full-day access to the Authentic Tibetan Marketplace is included with your general admission ticket. All proceeds from the marketplace go directly to the monks of the Drepung Gomang Monastery.
Tuesday, January 7 / 1:00 to 2:00 pm
Mani Stone Painting Workshop
$10 for Members and Nonmembers
Mani Stones, also known as jewel stones, dot the Tibetan landscape. They are inscribed with mantras or devotional designs as an offering or a form of prayer. Often these stones are grouped together in piles or stacked to create walls to help celebrate and spread the faith and are believed to help aid in the manifestation of goals. In this Monk-led workshop, participants will create their own mani stones with prayers or symbols of personal significance.
Wednesday, January 8 / 1:00 pm
Pet Blessing
$25 per pet for Nonmembers and $5 per pet for Members
Meant to bestow good fortune and blessings upon furry family members, the pet blessing will imprint seeds of happiness for the animals. The mantras recited are for health and success in this life and the next ones. Bring your pet to the Garden and have them personally blessed by the monks. All animals must be under control at all times by a leash or crate. Pet tags for the Sacred Arts Tour will be available for purchase after the blessing for $5 each via credit cards only.
Note:Animals are not permitted inside the building for the Sacred Arts Tour.
Friday, January 10 / 2:00 pm until sold out
Momo Sale
One of the delights of the visiting monks are momos, a traditional “dumpling” in which a flour shell is carefully filled with a mix of veggies or beef, which are skillfully wrapped and steamed. They are believed to have originated in Tibet centuries ago and have become an integral part of Tibetan cuisine. Don’t miss this opportunity to take home delicious hand-made momos.
Saturday, January 11
Sacred Arts Tour Cultural Pageant and Final Closing Ceremony
General Admission: $30 for Nonmembers and $10 for Members (Garden admission is free with membership)
Saturday, 10:00 am to 4:30 pm
Morning ceremony follows the same practice as Monday through Friday.
+ Cultural Pageant
Saturday, 12:00 pm
Experience ancient Tibetan cultural rituals, including the snow lion dance, good luck dance, monk dance, sacred chants, prayers, and monastic debate, bringing authentic Tibetan traditions to life.
+ Closing Ceremony
Saturday, 4:00 pm
The closing ceremony includes prayers, chanting, deconstruction of the mandala, and sharing the blessed sand with those in attendance.
January 7, 14, 21, 28
Watercolor at the Garden
with Carl Stoveland
Tuesdays, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm $20 for members; $25 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission). Classes are nonrefundable. Registration is required; class size is limited to 15 adults.
Join artist Carl Stoveland and share the love of art and nature with fellow art enthusiasts. This class is for adults only. Bring your pencils, pens, paints. Sketchpad, watercolor pad, or journal, and your favorite photographic device (i.e., cell phone camera or tablet). Some experience preferred. True newbies should consider the beginners class.Each week or two, the class will start a new painting project. Time will be split between demos by Stoveland and supervised painting time for participants. Subjects will be chosen by instructor with assistance from class.
Tuesdays, 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm $20 for members; $25 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission). Classes are nonrefundable. Registration is required; class size is limited to 15 adults.
If you have always wanted to try watercolor but been overwhelmed by it then this is the class for you. Geared toward novice watercolor enthusiasts, this class will focus on the basics, including a new technique and a simple painting each week. Join artist Carl Stoveland and share your love of art and nature with fellow art enthusiasts. This class is for adults only. Bring pencils, pens, paints, sketchpad, watercolor pad, or journal, and your favorite photographic device (i.e., cell phone camera or tablet). Each week or two, the class will start a new painting project. Time will be split between demos by Stoveland and supervised painting time for participants.
FREE for MBG members and children under 6; $20 for nonmember adults; $18 for seniors 65+, college students, and military with ID; $13 for children 6-17. Ticket includes full Garden admission.
Note: Dogs are FREE for Mounts members and $5 for nonmembers.
This dog-and-family-friendly monthly event is held throughout the Garden. Bring your favorite pooch and enjoy a relaxed garden stroll. There are many great spots to capture family photos for posting online with #mountsbotanicalgarden.
Guidelines:
+ Non-retractable leashes only; retractable leashes are not permitted.
+ No more than one dog per adult will be admitted.
+ Rabies vaccination must be current.
+ Visitors should bring their own water and treats for the puppies.
Full Moon Release Ceremony with Sacred Cacao & Sound Bath
with Casa Rituals
Sunday, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
$35 for members; $45 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission)
Registration is required; class size is limited to 30 adults; classes are nonrefundable.
Come be inspired in the Herb Garden of Well-Being as we explore the healing power of the sound and your intention and immerse yourself in the transformative power of nature during the Full Moon Flower Release Ceremony. This awe-inspiring gathering takes place in a tranquil garden, carefully adorned with aromatic flowers and lush greenery. The Casa Rituals philosophy is deeply rooted in helping to bring everyday mindful intention to the busy modern-day person. This is achieved by creating a deeper and more aligned space, working with the vibration of sound-healing and sacred rituals for internal peace and harmony.
Your Experience Includes:
+ Ceremonial Smudging and Blessing: Upon arrival, you will be welcomed with a sacred smoke blessing to cleanse and release any burdens from your daily life, inviting you into a space of renewal and serenity.
+ Heart-Opening Cacao Ceremony: Savor a cup of the highest-quality ceremonial cacao, crafted to relax your body, open your heart chakra, and prepare you to receive the profound healing energies of the evening.
+ Full Moon Release Ritual: Through guided intention, you will learn to release what no longer serves you, embracing the transformative energy of the Full Moon with grace and empowerment.
+ Yoga Nidra and Sound Healing: Finally, sink into deep relaxation with a Yoga Nidra meditation, followed by an immersive sound healing journey. Let the harmonious vibrations of gongs, crystal singing bowls, and other high-frequency instruments wash over you, promoting deep healing and alignment.
This magical event invites you to reconnect with nature, align with the moon’s powerful energy, and nurture your inner well-being in a tranquil, supportive environment.
Note: Please bring a yoga mat and blanket. Also, no alcohol on the day of the ceremony and caffeine three hours before and after the event.
Free for members; $25 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission)
Registration is required; class size is limited to 45 adults; classes are nonrefundable.
Ready to take your vegetable gardening skills up a notch? This class is designed for gardeners who have some experience but want to deepen their knowledge and improve their garden’s productivity in Florida’s unique climate. We’ll cover advanced topics such as crop rotation, soil enhancement techniques, organic fertilization, disease management, and integrated pest management. You’ll also learn how to extend your growing season, optimize your garden’s layout for better yields, and select the best heirloom and hybrid varieties for Florida’s challenging conditions. This class offers hands-on advice tailored to Florida’s subtropical environment, ensuring you can grow a wide range of vegetables year-round with confidence. Ideal for those looking to refine their gardening practices and boost their harvest.
Saturday, 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. Free with admission to the Garden
Plen Air Palm Beach Painters will be in the Garden all day painting Garden scenes, creating a lovey atmosphere for our guests to view art and artists at work. The Plen Air Painters are happy to answer questions about Plein Air Painting or their techniques, and they may have an original painting or two to sell to anyone in the market for some beautiful art.
January 18
Get GardenFit
with Madeline deVries Hooper Saturday, 9:30 am to 10:30 am
$30 for members; $40 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission) Registration is required; class size is limited to 20 adults; classes are nonrefundable.
Join Madeline Hooper, GardenFit creator, executive producer, and host of GardenFit, the hit national public television series, for a lively session at Mounts Botanical Garden. Madeline will demonstrate simple, practical movements that will have you feeling your best as you dig, plant, and prune. GardenFit proves that gardening should be a joyful, pain-free experience.Don’t miss this chance to get inspired, get moving, and get GardenFit. Additional Upcoming GardenFit dates: February 15, March 16, April 5
Note: 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.
To register, please visit:
https://www.mounts.org/events/month/2025-01
January 18
Breaking the Barriers to Orchid Growing:
Saturday, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
$10 members; $25 nonmembers (includes full Garden admission)
Free for Members of The Orchid Society of the Palm Beaches (proof of membership is shown on the day of the class). Please register at www.mounts.org to save your spot.
Registration is required; class size is limited to 35 adults; classes are nonrefundable.
Mounts Botanical Garden and The Orchid Society of the Palm Beaches present Potting Workshops the third Saturday of each month. Orchid Potting Workshops will be held in the Mounts Botanical Garden Pavilion just inside the main gate next to the new Welcome Center. We cordially invite you to participate in our engaging and interactive workshops, led by esteemed members of the Board of The Orchid Society of the Palm Beaches. The workshop will begin with an insightful discussion about the topic, followed by hands-on potting demonstrations, facilitated by our knowledgeable board members. Attendees are encouraged to bring potting and sanitizing materials, and up to two orchids to repot. This workshop offers a unique opportunity to enhance your potting skills and techniques. The potting sessions will wrap up with a friendly Q&A, to deepen your knowledge and ask questions.
To register, please visit:
https://www.mounts.org/events/month/2025-01
January 18
For the Love of Bees Honey Tasting and Presentation
with Joanna Diamond
Saturday, 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm $25 for members; $35 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission) Registration is required; class size is limited to 25 adults; classes are nonrefundable.
Enter the world of the hard-working yet least rewarded humble honeybee and find out what makes these tiny but critical insects so special. Learn fascinating facts, dispel myths and misconceptions, and find out why instead of us being afraid of them, they should be scared of us. Go behind the scenes of live bee removals (including Africanized bees) and have a frank discussion about what WE can do for THEM, instead of the other way around. We will delve into honey’s incredible, edible world, learn how bees make honey, discuss different honey varietals, and enjoy a honey-tasting session. Local raw honey will be available for sale.
$25 for members; $35 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission)
Registration is required; class size is limited to 15 adults; classes are nonrefundable.
Forest Bathing, also known as “Nature Therapy,” is an immersive experience in nature that gives you an opportunity to reset your outlook on life and have an encounter with the nature in a way that you have never experienced before. It is a sensory practice that takes you away from your phone, computer, and social media and back to what your body yearns for…..a connection with nature. A sense of peace. A sense of relaxation. A sense of being in the present moment. It provides the perfect time to become a human “be”-ing instead of a human “do”-ing! During a Forest Bathing experience, you will be invited to slow down and reconnect with nature’s perfect balance using your senses to see the sunlight playing through the leaves, smell the flowers, and feel and hear the gentle wind whispering to you to return to your native roots and discover your deeper self. Your nature encounter concludes with a tea ceremony to connect with other like-minded nature lovers. Forest Bathing has been scientifically proven to boost immune strength, lift depression, reduce stress, and improve sleep. But beyond these physiological changes, this contemplative experience will show you how important it is for your well-being to take time in nature daily! Plan to arrive 15 minutes before the start time. Bring a chair or yoga mat.
$30 for members; $40 for nonmembers(includesfullGarden admission).
Registration isrequired; class size is limited to 30 adults; classes are nonrefundable.
Upon arrival, participants will receive a ceremonial smudging and blessing, helping to release any burdens from their day-to-day life. Then they will be given a cup of the highest quality, Ceremonial Cacao to participate in our sacred heart-opening Cacao Ceremony. The Cacao works to relax you, open your heart chakra, and help you to be receptive to the healing you will experience. Finally, you’ll relax into Yoga Nidra meditation and deep sound healing. You will be immersed in the healing energies of the gong, crystal singing bowls, and other high-frequency instruments.
Note: Please bring a yoga mat or blanket, and do not drink alcohol on the day of the ceremony or consume caffeine three hours before and after the event.
To register, please visit:
https://www.mounts.org/events/month/2025-01
January 24
A Tour of Beloved Garden Plants
with Mounts Horticulturist Supervisor Matthew Boyson
Friday, 10:00 am to 11:30 am
Free for members; $25 for nonmembers(includesfullGarden admission).
Registration isrequired; class size is limited to 20 adults; classes are
Join Matt Boyson for a personal and inspiring tour showcasing favorite plants in the Garden. From stunning showstoppers to hidden gems, you’ll explore a carefully curated selection of botanical wonders that hold a special place in the heart of our horticulture team. On this tour, participants will:
+ Learn what makes each featured plant unique, from fascinating adaptations to vibrant blooms and intriguing histories.
+ Discover insider tips on how to grow and care for these favorites in your own garden.
+ Hear behind-the-scenes stories about how these plants became part of the Garden’s collection.
+ Take time to appreciate the beauty, fragrance, and texture of these horticultural highlights.
Whether you’re a plant enthusiast or simply enjoy spending time in nature, this tour offers an intimate and engaging journey through the Garden’s most cherished specimens. Come celebrate the plants that inspire and delight our team every day!
To register, please visit:
https://www.mounts.org/events/month/2025-01
January 25
Terrarium as an Art Therapy: Little Gems for Life
with Omar Ananais
Saturday, 10:00 am to 1:00 pm (includes refreshments)
$45 for members; $55 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission)
Registration is required; class size is limited to 20 adults; classes are nonrefundable.
Join us for an inspiring workshop where we blend art and nature to craft stunning terrariums—personal oases filled with reflection and wisdom. Bring your favorite clear glass vessels that complement your space and create two custom terrariums during the session. Please note that the glass vessels are not included in the ticket. We recommend large vessels, up to 10 inches in diameter, for the best results. We provide all essential materials, including mosses, soil, a selection of plants, and decorative elements. A variety of optional plants will be available for purchase at the workshop. Learn the skills to care for your terrarium, including maintenance tips and guidance on choosing the best grow lights and bulbs to ensure your creation thrives. Led by Omar Ananais, a mindfulness and art therapist from Peru whose workshops are celebrated for being engaging and transformative, this experience is designed to promote mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Explore your artistic side and create living works of art that reflect your inner world. Become the artist of your mind.
To register, please visit:
https://www.mounts.org/events/month/2025-01
January 25
Story Time in the Garden
This program is free with Garden admission, but registration is required at least 5 days before each session, so be sure to secure your spot early!
Join us for a magical morning at Mounts Botanical Garden with Story Time in the Garden, presented in partnership with the Junior League of the Palm Beaches. Held every fourth Saturday of the month through April 2025, this enchanting program is perfect for children under 7 years old. Enjoy a delightful book reading surrounded by blooming flowers and lush greenery, followed by a fun craft activity to spark creativity. It’s the perfect way to introduce young minds to the wonders of nature and stories.
To register, please visit:
https://www.mounts.org/events/month/2025-01
RIBBIT THE EXHIBIT II
Back by popular demand is this collection of 18 larger-than-life, whimsical frog sculptures on exhibit throughout the Garden, offering a playful and imaginative exploration of amphibians. These fun and quirky sculptures also create opportunities for engaging programming about real frogs and their essential role in our environment. Each piece is handcrafted and colored with natural patina by artist Andy Cobb, and almost all the super-sized sculptures are new to Mounts and were not part of the original exhibition in early 2020.”
Mounts Botanical Garden & Bloomberg Connects
Explore Anytime, Anywhere with New Mobile Garden Guide
Visitors can now explore Mounts Botanical Garden anytime from anywhere across the globe with the new Mobile Garden Guide. Launched in partnership with Bloomberg Connects, the free arts and cultural app created by Bloomberg Philanthropies, the guide is designed to elevate and enrich the visitor experience by making it easy to discover more of what people love before, during, and after their visit to the Garden. Multi-media content includes maps and information on Mounts Botanical’s 25 display gardens, art in the garden, and current and upcoming exhibitions, as well as an ever-growing spectrum of new photo, audio, and video content available exclusively via the app. To learn more and download the app, visit www.mounts.org/mobile-garden-guide/ [mounts.org].
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. Visitors to this 20-acre tropical oasis will see an acclaimed collection of 25 unique garden areas containing more than 7,000 species of tropical and sub-tropical plants, including Florida natives, exotic and tropical fruit trees, herbs, palms, roses, cactus, bromeliads and much more. 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 the Mounts Botanical Garden. This project is sponsored in part by The Board of County Commissioners, the Tourist Development Council, and the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County. Mounts Botanical is located at 531 North Military Trail in West Palm Beach. For more information, please visit www.mounts.org.
Please join us for a wonderful presentation by one of Florida’s most award winning photographers
The meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 14, 2024, at 5:30pm, at the Wellington Community Center located at 12150 Forest Hill Blvd, Wellington, FL 33414. The evening will also include a Meet & Greet, Member Spotlight, and fabulous Raffle. For more information, please contact [email protected].
Moving from Wisconsin to Florida in 2017, Mark Stall has established his home and career on the Treasure Coast. Stall has been practicing photography since the age of eleven. He began with traditional cameras and dark room processes and now uses a variety of high-end cameras and video cameras sometimes using computers and software to give his images new identities.
Mark Stall is the recipient of several awards at leading juried exhibitions in Wisconsin & Florida, including The Hidden River Art Festival Eddy Award (2012), several Cedarburg Art Museum (2014, 2015, 2016) Ozaukee Annual Juried Exhibition (2016) The Milwaukee Intercontinental Hotel (2016) Best of Show AE Backus Museum Juried Photo Exhibition (2022) 1st Place Award Stuart Audubon Society Juried Photo Exhibition (2022) 1st Place Award Martin Artisan’s Guild Tis the Season Juried Exhibition (2023).
The Wellington Art Society is a non-profit charitable organization in its 43rd year. It is open to artists of all mediums and patrons of the arts, allowing both local and regional artists to display their artwork in local galleries, interact with other artists and serve the community through their art. For further information about the Wellington Art Society, please visit www.wellingtonartsociety.org.
WELLINGTON, FL – Ring in 2025 at Wellington’s premier shopping destination, The Mall at Wellington Green. The mall will host numerous fun happenings, including pop-up work out classes, star-studded sports signings, engaging children’s events, and more.
New Year, New You Expo
Saturday, January 11
11:30am-1:30pm
Free
Grand Court
Celebrate your best, most fit self at The Mall at Wellington Green this new year! During this expo, the mall will hold four, 30-minute workout classes for guests to try, including Zumba, Orangetheory, and a Body Weight Functional Training class, hosted by one of the mall’s newest stores, Ncognito. Additional wellness and fitness vendors, including the B-12 Store, Fit2Run, Galtsand, and Yuly360 will showcase their products at the event. Outside vendors including Wellington Regional Medical Center, Ideal Nutrition, and Orangetheory Fitness will also be onsite. Plus, the mall will host an exciting $500 Wellness Shopping giveaway and provide swag for attendees.
Winnie-the-Pooh Mommy & Me
Wednesday, January 15
10:30am-12pm
Free
Grand Court
Parents and kids under five are invited to enjoy a Winnie-the-Pooh themed morning of fun! Children will enjoy story time, themed crafts, cameos from the Pooh Bear, and treats and beverages from Starbucks.
Mad Science Kids Club
Saturday, January 18
11:30am-1pm
Free
Grand Court
Children and parents should join the mall for some educational fun at this Mad Science Kids Club event. Attendees will enjoy a live performance by Mad Science Palm Beach, science activations, a spin art bike activity, and more. Plus, guests can enjoy complimentary pretzel nuggets courtesy of Auntie Anne’s.
Palm Beach Autographs is excited to welcome boxing legend, Mike Tyson, to its store. Fans will be able to meet Tyson, who will be signing autographs and posing for photos. For more information or to buy tickets, visit palmbeachautographs.com/pages/signings.
Zumba Dance Party with Jaime
Every Saturday
10:30-11:30am
Free
The District at Wellington Green
Livin’ La Vida Zumba! Enjoy The Mall at Wellington Green’s fun, dance fitness party program that combines high- and low-intensity Latin dance moves designed to burn calories and boost cardio endurance. All ages and levels are welcome.
The Mall at Wellington Green is located at 10300 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington. For more information, call (561) 227-6900 or visit shopwellingtongreen.com.
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.
