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Community Partners of South Florida Achieves National Accreditation

Summer Wadleigh
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Community Partners of South Florida Achieves National Accreditation

Community Partners of South Florida Achieves National Accreditation

Riviera Beach, FL. – Community Partners of South Florida (CPSFL) has achieved national accreditation through the New York-based Council on Accreditation (COA), an accreditor of the full continuum of community-based behavioral health care and social service organizations in the United States and Canada. COA has recognized CPSFL for its best practices, accountability and quality as a nonprofit community development organization that is changing generations by changing the odds for families across the most important foundations in their lives, including housing, mental health and community.

It took CPSFL eighteen months to achieve accreditation. Organizations pursue accreditation to demonstrate the implementation of best practice standards in the field of human services. COA evaluated all aspects of CPSFL’s programs, services, management, and administration.

COA accreditation is an objective, independent, and reliable validation of an agency’s performance. The COA accreditation process involves a detailed review and analysis of an organization’s administration, management, and service delivery functions against international standards of best practice. The standards driving accreditation ensure that services are well-coordinated, culturally competent, evidence-based, outcomes-oriented, and provided by a skilled and supported workforce. COA accreditation demonstrates accountability in the management of resources, sets standardized best practice thresholds for service and administration, and increases organizational capacity and accountability by creating a framework for ongoing quality improvement.

“This was an 18-month process that took the effort of staff from all our programs and departments,” said Jodi Greenblatt, CPSFL’s assistant VP of operations and quality improvement. “This accreditation demonstrates the implementation of best practices and high-quality care to our clients.”

To achieve COA accreditation, CPSFLfirst provided written evidence of compliance with the COA standards.  Thereafter, a group of specially trained volunteer peer reviewers confirmed adherence to these standards during a series of on-site interviews with trustees, staff and clients. Based on their findings, COA’s volunteer-based Accreditation Commission voted that CPSFLhad successfully met the criteria for accreditation.

An endorsement of COA and the value of its accreditation process is reflected in it being named by the US State Department as the sole national independent accrediting body under the Hague Convention on Intercountry Adoption to accredit intercountry adoption service providers. In addition, COA is the only national accreditor designated by the U.S. Department of Defense to develop accreditation standards and processes for human service programs provided to military personnel and their families.

The COA accreditation follows CPSFL’s receiving the 2020 Platinum Seal of Transparency, the highest level of recognition offered by GuideStar, a service of Candid. The distinction is awarded to nonprofit organizations that share meaningful financial, operations and outcome data to evaluate performance.

“The recognition CPSFL has received is a testament to the dedication of our staff to provide the highest quality, most impactful services that change generations by changing the odds,” said Scott Hansel, CPSFL CEO. “Donors and funders can feel confident that their investment with us will provide a considerable return on their investment through the strengthening of families, neighborhoods and Palm Beach County.”

About Community Partners of South Florida
Community Partners of South Florida is a $16 million comprehensive community development nonprofit agency headquartered in Riviera Beach that provides services to families facing social, emotional, and financial adversity. By using a unique, breakthrough approach integrating housing and financial empowerment, child and family mental health, and community services, Community Partners creates self-sustaining families and communities and serves as a driver for growing its local economy. For more information about Community Partners of South Florida, visit www.cp-cto.org. Community Partners is a proud chartered affiliate of NeighborWorks America, a national, nonpartisan nonprofit striving to make every community a place of opportunity.

About the Council on Accreditation

Founded in 1977, the Council on Accreditation (COA) is an independent, not-for-profit accreditor of the full continuum of community-based behavioral health care and social service organizations in the United States and Canada. Over 2,000 organizations — voluntary, public, and proprietary; local and statewide; large and small — have either successfully achieved COA accreditation or are currently engaged in the process. Presently, COA has a total of 47 service standards that are applicable to over 125 different types of programs. To learn more about COA, please visit www.coanet.org.

ALPERT JFS’ “NO EXCUSE FOR ABUSE” VIRTUAL EVENING TO FEATURE ELIZABETH SMART

Summer Wadleigh
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0

ELIZABETH SMART TO HEADLINE THE FERD & GLADYS ALPERT JEWISH FAMILY SERVICE 17th ANNUAL “NO EXCUSE FOR ABUSE” EVENT, A VIRTUAL EVENING

WEST PALM BEACH, FL – January 18, 2021 – The Ferd & Gladys Alpert Jewish Family Service (Alpert JFS) “No Excuse for Abuse” event, an eagerly anticipated annual signature program of the agency, will be held on Tuesday, February 16, 2021 at 7:00 p.m.  Abduction survivor, advocate and author Elizabeth Smart will be the keynote speaker. In light of the pandemic, this year’s 17th consecutive program, chaired by Ilene Goldstein, Diann Mann and Judith Rosenberg, and emceed by Barbara and Peter Sidel, will be an online experience.

The virtual event is open to the community-at-large, free of charge. Alpert JFS is encouraging friends and neighbors to help meet a fundraising goal of $360,000 in connection with this year’s virtual events, which will provide much-needed assistance for the most vulnerable residents from Boynton Beach to Vero Beach. To learn more about the $360K Campaign, visit www.alpertjfs.org/360campaign/.

Zelda Mason is the Title Sponsor of the event. Platinum Sponsors are Diann and Thomas Mann, and Minto Foundation, Inc. Silver Sponsors include ComForCare Home Care, Jane and Arnold Lampert, and Lesser, Lesser, Landy & Smith PLLC. Bronze Sponsors are Amicable Home Health Care, The Honorable Ann W. Brown, Sheila Engelstein, Steve and Marsha Funk, Linda and Raymond L. Golden, Mitchell I. Kitroser, PA, Marsh & McLennan Agency Mutual of America Financial Group, Susan Shulman Pertnoy and Ron Pertnoy, and Plastridge Insurance. Virtual Hosts include Linda Cortell Benjamin; Socki and Bruce Berg; Judy Bergman and Dr. Richard Budson, Traci Pincourt Braun and Keith B. Braun, Jan and Dr. Robert Burke, Alan I. Goldberg, Ilene Goldstein and Greg Thorpe, Hope and Gary Hoffman, Vivienne Felberman Ivryz”l, Judith and Martin Knopf, Marjie and Dr. Sheldon Konigsberg, Jane and Arnold Lampert, Karen Levy-Lutner and Dr. Lawrence Lutner, Vivian F. Lieberman, Robyn and Dale Rands, Carolyn Gleimer Silbey and Franklin Silbey, Hope and Gene Silverman, and Carolyn and Michael Yasuna. Program Ambassadors are Donna M. Baumzweig and David M. Ginsberg, Dara and Dr. Alan Berger, Karen and Ilan Berkner, Carole and Jerome Blumberg, Leslie and Ralph Brotter, Chaykin Law Group, Wendi and Barry Cohn, Sheryl and Dr. Tommy Davidoff, Sharon and Neil Efron, Joyce and Charles Ezrine, Mindi and Adam Fetterman, Ellen and Ken Forrest, Emily and Dr. Gerald Gardner, Irene and Elliot Glanz, Renee and Dr. Robert C. Gordon, Connie and Robert Greene, Ronald Guritzky, Dr. Amy and Dr. David Harris, Ellie Hart, Jimmy Katz, Iris and Tevie Kozak, Joyce Lampert, LCSW/All About You Counseling, Patti and Tony Lampert, Heather and Jason Lazarus, Ellen G. and Benz”l Levy, Liggio Law, Karen and Marty List, Marilyn and Jacob Mitzner, Tracy Nemerofsky, Joanne Warshaver Pinciss, Lois and Phillip Proger, Elaine Ravich, Lisa Rawe, Pam and Jeff Rembaum, Felice Cantor Rosen and Neal Rosen, Sandra and Marvin Rosen,  Susan Rothman, Stephanie Rozansky, REALTOR®, New Wave Realty, Carol Shubs, Judy Shuster, Toni Sigalow, Denise Silverman, Julie Simons, Estelle and Samuel Sylvetsky, Renee and Dan Tucker, Kelley Whiter and Jonathan Beasley, and Barbara and Michael Wildstein.

At the event, Carol Shubs and Karen Berkner, co-chairs of The KOLOT (Hebrew for “voices”) Committee will announce the winners of the “No Excuse for Abuse Poster & Poetry Contest.” Jewish student artists and poets in elementary, middle school, and high school were eligible to enter single submissions in any medium on the topics of bullying; teen dating abuse; healthy relationships; and emotional, verbal, or physical abuse. Additionally, attendees will hear from teen leaders of the teen dating abuse and bullying prevention program, “Relationships and Decisions Program,” who work to engage and educate their peers in the community.

The abduction of Elizabeth Smart was one of the most followed child abduction cases of our time. During her nine months in captivity, she was controlled by her captors with threats against her and her family’s lives if she tried to escape. Her powerful testimony, presented before her captors and the world, shared detail of the very private nightmare she endured, leading to their conviction. Since her traumatic experience, Smart has become an advocate for change, published author of the New York Times best-selling book, “My Story,” and promoted The National AMBER Alert, and The Adam Walsh Child Protection & Safety Act, and other safety legislation to help prevent abductions.

Register online at www.alpertjfs.org/events/2021nefa.  For more information about the virtual evening, phone Maxine Sonnenschein at 561-252-8825 or email [email protected].

KOLOT (Hebrew for “voices”) is a coalition of representatives from Jewish and other community organizations, professionals, and volunteers. The group is on a mission to end abuse and encourage help seeking, through awareness and education, including accessible informational materials for victims, community education, and events.

The Alpert JFS Domestic Abuse Program exists to help victims identify abuse, create a personalized safety plan, and provide direction to local and out-of-state domestic abuse resources. The agency’s mental health professionals conduct workshops for synagogues, organizations and teen groups to teach warning signs and end the cycle of abuse. To learn more about the domestic abuse support services of Alpert JFS, visit alpertjfs.org/for-adults/domestic-abuse-support/.  The agency has virtual support groups for “Women in High Conflict Relationships, held via Zoom on Thursday evenings at 5:30 p.m.  Participants in the group learn about abuse, power/control, how to identify red flags and unhealthy relationships, as well as the characteristics of an abuser, as well as how to set boundaries, increase self-esteem and practice self-care. A 10-week commitment is required of participants. Phone 561-684-1991 for more information.

Established in 1974, Ferd & Gladys Alpert Jewish Family Service is a nationally accredited service provider for children, adults, and seniors, including Holocaust survivors. The non-profit, non-sectarian organization is a trusted leader, with a team of nearly 200 highly skilled professionals delivering high-quality care to community members. Alpert JFS works to ensure the well-being of children and families, independence of older adults and quality-of-life for individuals with disabilities.

The Gardens Mall Supports Local Charities During the Holiday Season

Summer Wadleigh
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0
The Gardens Mall Supports Local Charities During the Holiday Season

The Gardens Mall Supports Local Charities During the Holiday Season

Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. (January 18, 2021) – As social events were canceled in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many local nonprofits were caught between continuing to serve the community and losing revenue from derailed fundraising events. The Gardens Mall maintained its charitable commitments, offering programs and activities during the holidays that generated more than $26,000 for local charities.

Jessica McCarten at Holiday Wander at The Gardens Mall

“In a year that challenged people financially, socially, physically, and emotionally, we wanted to be a source of support,” said Whitney Pettis Jester, Director of Marketing and Merchant Relations at The Gardens Mall. “We hosted activations for the charities, giving them access to an audience, while shoppers coming to the mall had an opportunity to give back.”

The Arc of Palm Beach County received $18,216 thanks to donations that came through Holiday Wander. As guests enjoyed the interactive, photo-worthy holiday scenes, they helped to support programs for people with developmental disabilities.

In a single day, Musicthon raised $4,380 for Camp VITAS. Young musicians from the Palm Beach County School District’s Music Programs performed at the mall, donating their time and gathering pledges to support camps for children who are struggling with grief. The fundraiser exceeded Camp VITAS’ goal, allowing the nonprofit to add an extra night to the camps when they resume.

Shoppers adopted 500 angels from The Salvation Army Angel Tree to help fulfill the holiday wishes of underprivileged children. The Salvation Army received $2,426 in cash donations and 1,500 toys to distribute to children in Palm Beach County.

The Ready. Set. Stroll. program made personal strollers available for one-time use during visits to The Gardens Mall. For $20, shoppers could purchase a stroller to use and then take home. All stroller fees were donated to Quantum House, raising $1,460 for the nonprofit, which provides a temporary home for families whose children are hospitalized.

Just like the holiday décor, the giving spirit was evident everywhere around The Gardens Mall. The generosity of the season will be felt throughout the community all year.

About The Gardens Mall

The Gardens Mall is located one mile east of I-95 on PGA Blvd. in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. The luxurious, 1.4-million-square-foot, super-regional shopping center features more than 150 world-class retail specialty shops and restaurants. It is anchored by Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdale’s, and Macy’s. The Gardens Mall is owned and managed by The Forbes Company. For more information about The Gardens Mall, call (561) 775-7750 or visit the mall online at thegardensmall.com.

Wellington Art Society to Feature Artist Barbara Powell for Their February Meeting

Summer Wadleigh
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0
Wellington Art Society to Feature Artist Barbara Powell for Their February Meeting

Wellington Art Society to Feature Artist

Barbara Powell for Their February Meeting

The Wellington Art Society will feature a demonstration by local artist Barbara Powell for their February 10, 2021 meeting.

The meeting and presentation will take place through the Wellington Art Society’s virtual Zoom link, which is distributed via e-mail to all members. A meet-and-greet will begin at 7 p.m., followed by the member spotlight and a brief meeting. The event will conclude with a demonstration by Barbara Powell of saggar-fired ceramics. The public is invited. RSVP by e-mail to [email protected].

Originally from Western Massachusetts, Barbara’s professional career focused on environmental protections. She is now centered on clay and enjoying the local south Florida art scene.

Barbara Powell, Saggar Pot

Barbara gets her inspiration from “nature and the ancient forces of water and time on the varied geology.” About her process she says, “I mostly wheel-throw my pottery and depending on the surface of the clay and firing methods, I can create either brilliant dimensions of color or subtle earthly palettes. I love working between these two extremes.” She muses that even after working in this medium for many years and developing an in-depth knowledge of the materials, “the final outcome will always remain largely unforeseen – as the fire itself has the final signature”.

Barbara is a previous director for the Wellington Art Society, Wellington, FL and Women in the Visual Arts, Boca Raton, FL. Currently, she is a member of the Ceramic League of the Palm Beaches, the Lighthouse ArtCenter in Tequesta, and the Partners for Art and Design in Miami, FL.

In addition to working at her home studio, Barbara teaches wheel-throwing classes at the City of Palm Beach Gardens, Hand-Building classes at the Wycliffe Gold Resort in Wellington and workshops at the Lighthouse ArtCenter in Tequesta, FL.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, most of Barbara’s classes are temporarily on hold. However, she is offering several fun “Fire Friday” events at the Lighthouse ArtCenter. Most of the work is done in an open-air environment, since a kiln is used. For more information about “Fire Friday” and many more fun opportunities, please visit https://www.lighthousearts.org/select-fridays.html.

Enjoy her art on her website: http://www.powellceramicart.com; or follow her on Facebook @bpowellceramicart; or Instagram @bpowellceramicart. Barbara may be contacted directly by phone at  

Mounts Botanical Garden Announces New WINTER PLANT SALE, February 6-7, 2021

Summer Wadleigh
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0
Mounts Botanical Garden Announces New WINTER PLANT SALE, February 6-7, 2021

Mounts Botanical Garden of Palm Beach County

Announces New WINTER PLANT SALE

February 6-7, 2021

Stroll & Shop in a Socially Distanced, Outdoor Environment

(West Palm Beach, FL – January 18, 2021) Mounts Botanical Garden, Palm Beach County’s oldest and largest botanical garden, today announced the addition of a major new weekend event, Winter Plant Sale, February 6-7, 2021.

Mounts Plant Sale, Native Plants

“Our Fall and Spring Plant Sales have historically been very popular, so we decided to add a Winter Sale next month,” says Mounts Curator-Director Rochelle Wolberg. “In these very challenging times, our goal is to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for our vendors and the public.”

Visitors can stroll in a relaxed environment while shopping for a wide variety of plants, shrubs, trees, garden accessories, and fine crafts.  The Mounts Botanical Garden Nursery and Vintage Thrift Shop will also be open with a variety of plants and unique treasures for home and garden.

Public health and safety remain prime priorities. Mounts Botanical continues to adhere to Palm Beach County and CDC requirements and guidelines. The sale will be held at reduced capacity, and the 40-50 vendors expected will all be outside, spaced for safety, and located throughout the Garden.

Winter Plant Sale

General Sale Information

+ The dates/hours are Saturday, February 6, 9 am to 4 pm (with Mounts Members’ preview from 8 to 9 am); and Sunday, February 7, 9 am to 3 pm.

+ The Entrance/Exit will be located at Gate 2 Only in the former DMV parking lot. The front entrance gate and back area gate will be closed.

+ Event Parking is in the adjacent old DMV lot and the Mounts front entrance lot (there’s a pathway to Gate 2). No on-street parking.

Tickets Should Be Purchased in Advance

+ Admission is FREE for Mounts members starting at 8 am on Saturday only. A current membership card is required.

+ Advance admission for nonmembers is $10 (general/ages 13 and up); $5 (children 5-12). Advance ticket sales close at 5 pm on February 5.

+ Gate admission is by credit card only at $12 and $5.

+ Reciprocal Admission Program members are $5. The ticket must be purchased at the gate by showing a membership care.

+ Tickets can be purchased in advance online at https://www.mounts.org/product/winter-plant-sale/ and are applicable either Saturday or Sunday.

+ All tickets are nonrefundable but, if not applied during the Winter Plant Sale, may be used for Garden admission through April 30, 2021.

Mounts Health & Safety Guidelines

+ Masks are mandatory.

+ All vendor booths will be set up to encourage social distancing.

+ Hand sanitizing stations will be available.

+ There will be no carry out assistance. Visitors should bring their own wagon or cart.

+ There will be no food vendors.

+ Individuals at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19 (including older adults and vulnerable people of all ages with certain underlying medical conditions) should avoid in-person events and gathering at this time.

Conveniently located just minutes away from downtown West Palm Beach, Mounts Botanical Garden is now open to the public 9 am to 3 pm, Tuesday through Sunday. Still available for viewing is the family-friendly and ecology-conscious exhibition Cutting Corners: A Stickwork Exhibition, a massive, willow sculpture located in the Great Lawn area.

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 14-acre tropical oasis will see an acclaimed collection of 25 unique garden areas containing more than 2,000 species of tropical and sub-tropical plants, including Florida natives, exotic and tropical fruit trees, herbs, palms, roses, cactus, bromeliads and much more. The award-winning Windows on the Floating World: Blume Tropical Wetland, completed in 2017, is a guest favorite. 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. The Garden is sponsored in part by The Board of County Commissioners, the Tourist Development Council and the Cultural Council of Palm Beach County. Mounts Botanical is located at 531 North Military Trail in West Palm Beach. For more information, please visit www.mounts.org.

ALPERT JFS 17TH ANNUAL “NO EXCUSE FOR ABUSE” EVENT WITH ELIZABETH SMART

Summer Wadleigh
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0
ALPERT JFS 17TH ANNUAL “NO EXCUSE FOR ABUSE” EVENT WITH ELIZABETH SMART

ELIZABETH SMART TO HEADLINE THE FERD & GLADYS ALPERT JEWISH FAMILY SERVICE
17th ANNUAL “NO EXCUSE FOR ABUSE” EVENT, A VIRTUAL EVENING

WEST PALM BEACH, FL – January 18, 2021 – The Ferd & Gladys Alpert Jewish Family Service (Alpert JFS) “No Excuse for Abuse” event, an eagerly anticipated annual signature program of the agency, will be held on Tuesday, February 16, 2021 at 7:00 p.m.  Abduction survivor, advocate and author Elizabeth Smart will be the keynote speaker. In light of the pandemic, this year’s 17th consecutive program, chaired by Ilene Goldstein, Diann Mann and Judith Rosenberg, and emceed by Barbara and Peter Sidel, will be an online experience.

The virtual event is open to the community-at-large, free of charge. Alpert JFS is encouraging friends and neighbors to help meet a fundraising goal of $360,000 in connection with this year’s virtual events, which will provide much-needed assistance for the most vulnerable residents from Boynton Beach to Vero Beach. To learn more about the $360K Campaign, visit www.alpertjfs.org/360campaign/.

Zelda Mason is the Title Sponsor of the event. Platinum Sponsors are Diann and Thomas Mann, and Minto Foundation, Inc. Silver Sponsors include ComForCare Home Care, and Lesser, Lesser, Landy & Smith PLLC. Bronze Sponsors are Amicable Home Health Care, The Honorable Ann W. Brown, Celedinas Insurance Group, Sheila Engelstein, Steve and Marsha Funk, Linda and Raymond L. Golden, Mitchell I. Kitroser, PA, Mutual of America Financial Group, Susan Shulman Pertnoy and Ron Pertnoy, and Plastridge Insurance. Virtual Hosts include Linda Cortell Benjamin; Socki and Bruce Berg; Judy Bergman and Dr. Richard Budson, Traci Pincourt Braun and Keith B. Braun, Jan and Dr. Robert Burke, Alan I. Goldberg, Ilene Goldstein and Greg Thorpe, Hope and Gary Hoffman, Vivienne Felberman Ivryz”l, Judith and Martin Knopf, Marjie and Dr. Sheldon Konigsberg, Karen Levy-Lutner and Dr. Lawrence Lutner, Vivian F. Lieberman, Carolyn Gleimer Silbey and Franklin Silbey, Hope and Gene Silverman, and Carolyn and Michael Yasuna. Program Ambassadors are Donna M. Baumzweig and David M. Ginsberg, Dara and Dr. Alan Berger, Karen and Ilan Berkner, Carole and Jerome Blumberg, Leslie and Ralph Brotter, Chaykin Law Group, Wendi and Barry Cohn, Sheryl and Dr. Tommy Davidoff, Sharon and Neil Efron, Joyce and Charles Ezrine, Mindi and Adam Fetterman, Ellen and Ken Forrest, Emily and Dr. Gerald Gardner, Irene and Elliot Glanz, Renee and Dr. Robert C. Gordon, Connie and Robert Greene, Ronald Guritzky, Dr. Amy and Dr. David Harris, Ellie Hart, Jimmy Katz, Iris and Tevie Kozak, Joyce Lampert, LCSW/All About You Counseling, Patti and Tony Lampert, Heather and Jason Lazarus, Ellen G. and Benz”l Levy, Liggio Law, Karen and Marty List, Marilyn and Jacob Mitzner, Tracy Nemerofsky, Joanne Warshaver Pinciss, Lois and Phillip Proger, Elaine Ravich, Lisa Rawe, Pam and Jeff Rembaum, Felice Cantor Rosen and Neal Rosen, Sandra and Marvin Rosen,  Susan Rothman, Stephanie Rozansky, REALTOR®, New Wave Realty, Carol Shubs, Judy Shuster, Toni Sigalow, Denise Silverman, Julie Simons, Renee and Dan Tucker, Kelley Whiter and Jonathan Beasley, and Barbara and Michael Wildstein.

At the event, Carol Shubs and Karen Berkner, co-chairs of The KOLOT (Hebrew for “voices”) Committee will announce the winners of the “No Excuse for Abuse Poster & Poetry Contest.” Jewish student artists and poets in elementary, middle school, and high school were eligible to enter single submissions in any medium on the topics of bullying; teen dating abuse; healthy relationships; and emotional, verbal, or physical abuse. Additionally, attendees will hear from teen leaders of the teen dating abuse and bullying prevention program, “Relationships and Decisions Program,” who work to engage and educate their peers in the community.

The abduction of Elizabeth Smart was one of the most followed child abduction cases of our time. During her nine months in captivity, she was controlled by her captors with threats against her and her family’s lives if she tried to escape. Her powerful testimony, presented before her captors and the world, shared detail of the very private nightmare she endured, leading to their conviction. Since her traumatic experience, Smart has become an advocate for change, published author of the New York Times best-selling book, “My Story,” and promoted The National AMBER Alert, and The Adam Walsh Child Protection & Safety Act, and other safety legislation to help prevent abductions.

Register online at www.alpertjfs.org/events/2021nefa.  For more information about the virtual evening, phone Maxine Sonnenschein at 561-252-8825 or email [email protected].

KOLOT (Hebrew for “voices”) is a coalition of representatives from Jewish and other community organizations, professionals, and volunteers. The group is on a mission to end abuse and encourage help seeking, through awareness and education, including accessible informational materials for victims, community education, and events.

The Alpert JFS Domestic Abuse Program exists to help victims identify abuse, create a personalized safety plan, and provide direction to local and out-of-state domestic abuse resources. The agency’s mental health professionals conduct workshops for synagogues, organizations and teen groups to teach warning signs and end the cycle of abuse. To learn more about the domestic abuse support services of Alpert JFS, visit alpertjfs.org/for-adults/domestic-abuse-support/.  The agency has virtual support groups for “Women in High Conflict Relationships, held via Zoom on Thursday evenings at 5:30 p.m.  Participants in the group learn about abuse, power/control, how to identify red flags and unhealthy relationships, as well as the characteristics of an abuser, as well as how to set boundaries, increase self-esteem and practice self-care. A 10-week commitment is required of participants. Phone 561-684-1991 for more information.

Established in 1974, Ferd & Gladys Alpert Jewish Family Service is a nationally accredited service provider for children, adults, seniors, and Holocaust survivors. The non-profit, non-sectarian organization is a trusted leader, with a team of nearly 200 highly skilled professionals delivering high-quality care to community members. Alpert JFS works to ensure the well-being of children and families, independence of older adults and quality-of-life for individuals with disabilities.

SOUTH FLORIDA CAPPIES Continues to Inspire and Train HS Theatre & Journalism Students During Pandemic

Summer Wadleigh
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0
SOUTH FLORIDA CAPPIES Continues to Inspire and Train HS Theatre & Journalism Students During Pandemic

South Florida Cappies Continues to Inspire and Train High School Theatre and Journalism Students During Challenging Show-Closing Pandemic

(South Florida – January 18, 2021) Add the respected South Florida Cappies to the long list of cultural and community service organizations impacted last year by the COVID-19 pandemic but still determined to keep its vital mission going, even during the lockdown and aftermath.

One of 12 active chapters through the United States and Canada, the South Florida Cappies is a writing and awards program that trains high school theatre and journalism students to be expert writers, critical thinkers, and leaders. Student critics vie to be published in local media outlets by attending productions at other schools and writing critical reviews.

“Our organization is open to any public, private or parochial school and, last year, 25 different schools participated. Each school selected three to seven student critics, one faculty mentor, and one ‘Cappies’ show for review and awards evaluation by critics from other schools,” explains Program Director Lori Sessions, theatre teacher at J.P. Taravella High School in Coral Springs. “We have up to 50 student critics attend each of the ‘Cappies’ shows and then write 300-400 word reviews, of which more than 1,100 were published on Bill Hirschman’s popular website www.SouthFloridaTheaterOnStage,com.”

The South Florida Cappies was the only chapter in the international organization to complete its show season. While proms and graduation were being cancelled last March due to COVID, 152 student critics gathered on Zoom to evaluate all the written reviews and select the season’s five best.

With support from NSU University School, a live-streamed Cappies Gala was held on May 19, where awards were presented virtually to winning students by such Broadway stars as  Erich Bergen, Stephen Buntrock, Erin Dilly and Rob McClure, Dana Steingold, Nathen Tysen and more. 

“We knew the students were faced with so much disappointment at the end of the year so we just pushed to make our digital production the best it could be, and it attracted thousands of unique viewers online,” says Sessions.

Cappies Connect Zoom Call

Last fall, with so many students homebound and the theaters all closed, the local organization launched Cappies Connect as a way to  keep students engaged and celebrate high school theatre. The Cappies Connect Zoom sessions covered such subjects as evaluating digital content, evaluating a directorial or design concept, review writing, and critical discussion.

“Cappies Connect was the best choice that could have been made during these chaotic times and it was so much more beneficial than I had ever imagined,” says student critic Rachel Goldberg at Cooper City High School. “Rather than going to one training in September and then spending the rest of the year trying to write the perfect review, my Cappies team and I got four in-depth training days to help hone our skills in criticism, writing, and discussion. We learned more about what to look for when watching a performance and how to turn the notes we take into a well-crafted review.”

“While students may feel somewhat isolated these days, Cappies can still provide opportunities for students to connect and celebrate their work,” says Sessions. “For 2021, we are inviting schools to submit any digital content from 15 to 150 minutes in length. This can be a show live-streamed from their school, a ‘Zoom-style’ production or recorded content. Students and mentors will meet live using Microsoft Teams and discuss the shows as they do normally in person and still submit reviews. Though we will not be able to have our traditional awards gala, we still plan on some type of celebration at the end of the school year.”

Applications are open for all schools in Palm Beach and Broward Counties until January 7 at https://cis.cappies.com/sch-apply.pl  Critics will be trained (online) on January 19 and the season of shows starts February 1. 

For more information, please visit https://www.cappies.com/sfc/.

Wellington Art Society Opens Application Process for College Art Scholarship

Summer Wadleigh
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Wellington Art Society Opens Application Process for College Art Scholarship

The Wellington Art Society (WAS) has been supporting the advancement of art in the Palm Beach County community since 1981.  In 2001 the Wellington Art Society Scholarship Program was established to provide scholarships to talented young artists living and attending school in Palm Beach County for art related expenses and college tuition costs. In 2018 the scholarship program added the opportunity for Florida Atlantic University (FAU) students to apply for a scholarship in their Sophomore or Junior year.  Since 2001, the WAS is proud to have awarded over $100,000 to students within our community.  

Applications for multiple awards of $1,500 scholarships in the 2021 year will open on January 12 and close on March 19.  Winners will be notified by April 6 with presentation (in person or virtually) taking place May 12.

For consideration of a Wellington Art Society scholarship, students must apply via: www.CallForEntry.org and register on-line.  There is no charge to register.

Once registered, applicants should search for the Wellington Art Society Scholarship and complete the on-line application. Up to 6 images of the student’s 2D or 3D work may be uploaded in JPEG format only, with each image no smaller than 1920 pixels on the longest side. The resolution for each image must be 72 ppi/dpi (standard web resolution) and each file size must not exceed 5 MB. In addition, applicants must upload their unofficial high school transcript in a Microsoft Word or PDF file format.

For additional information contact: WAS Scholarship Chair- Lynn Doyal, [email protected]  

The Wellington Art Society is a non-profit charitable organization in its 40th year. It is open to artists of all mediums and patrons of the arts, allowing both local and regional artists to display their art work 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.

CULTURE & COCKTAILS Presents ‘Cool People Doing Neat Stuff’ in 2021

Summer Wadleigh
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CULTURE & COCKTAILS Presents ‘Cool People Doing Neat Stuff’ in 2021

Cultural Council for Palm Beach County

Announces 16th Annual Season of

CULTURE & COCKTAILS

‘Cool People Doing Neat Stuff!’

(Lake Worth Beach, FL – January 5, 2021) Dave Lawrence, President & CEO of the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County today announced the rest of this 16th annual season of CULTURE & COCKTAILS. The popular series is presenting three more fascinating conversations—the next two held virtually, with the traditional musical finale to be presented live at The Colony Hotel’s Coral Ballroom, located at 155 Hammon Avenuein Palm Beach.

The fun theme for this season of CULTURE & COCKTAILS is Cool People Doing Neat Stuff! The series started last month with Hollywood Historian Scott Eyman, the award-winning author of the new book Cary Grant: A Brilliant Disguise, as well as best-selling biographies of John Wayne, Robert Wagner, Cecil B. DeMille, John Ford, Lewis B. Mayer, and best buddies Henry Fonda and Jimmy Stewart. Nearly 200 people watched live online as he was interviewed by Lynn Kalber, Boca Magazine columnist and food editor (a/k/a Mrs. Eyman).

Coming up:

February 1 – 6 to 7 pm   

Cultural Dynamos

Douglas C. Evans

+ Douglas C. Evans, Executive Director of The Chamber Music Society of Palm Beach, has been an international cultural leader for more than three decades. In addition to being CEO of Premiere Global Partners an international consulting firm, he most recently held the position of Chief Development, Marketing and Communications Officer for the Perez Museum of Art in Miami. He was the Founder of Classical South Florida Radio, and has held the position of Chief Operating Officer of Nederlander Worldwide Entertainment and President of Broadway China Ventures. A prolific producer of Broadway musicals and plays, he has worked with a galaxy of classic stars, including Barbara Cook, Carol Lawrence, Nell Carter, Ann Miller, John Raitt, Juliet Prowse and Shirley MacLaine.

Marjorie Waldo

+ Marjorie Waldo, President & CEO of Arts Garage in Delray Beach, delivers innovative, diverse, meaningful and accessible visual and performing arts experiences to multi-cultural audiences. “The transformative nature of the Arts moves us, and Arts Garage is proud to connect our community to the world through the arts,” she says. Waldo earned her BA in Drama from the University of Virginia and an MA in Educational Leadership from FAU, A career educator with over 25 years’ experience, she worked for several decades as a high school principal at Tomorrow’s Promise Community School and as an education consultant focused on working with students facing debilitating societal and personal obstacles. A non-profit turn-around expert, Waldo has been running Arts Garage since 2016.

Interviewed by Dave Lawrence, President & CEO of the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County

Note: The second virtual CULTURE & COCKTAILS is FREE for everyone, both Cultural Council members and nonmembers. RSVP ASAP with Debbie Calabria at 561.472.3330 (or visit www.palmbeachculture.com/cocktails and she will email instructions on how to connect live).

March 1 – 5 to 7 pm   (via Zoom)

Bosom Buddies:

A Dishy Chat Between Faith Prince & Rob Russell

+ Faith Prince has been dazzling Broadway audiences since winning the Tony, Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle Awards for her performance as “Ms. Adelaide” in Guys and Dolls. As one of Broadway’s best loved leading ladies, she also won rave reviews and numerous Tony Award nominations for roles in such hits as Annie, A Catered Affair, Bells are Ringing, The Little Mermaid, Nick & Nora, Jerome Robbins’ Broadway, Noises Off, and Disaster, among others. On television, she has had recurring roles in Modern Family, Drop Dead Diva, and Spin City. She has sold-out cabarets and concert halls around the world, and recorded the album Total Faith at The Colony Hotel, Palm Beach.

+ Rob Russell was the longtime Entertainment Director & Emcee for the world famous Royal Room cabaret at The Colony Hotel. From his audience-wowing one man shows to occasional gigs as an announcer on Legends Radio, the ever dapper, occasional tapper Russell has been known to cause music lovers and fans of the Great American Songbook to jump up, dance between tables, and join in the revelry. He performs regularly at Café Centro in the Northwood Village neighborhood of West Palm Beach and The Pelican Café in Lake Park, and recently released his first CD, Hello Again. He is also a longtime chum of Ms. Prince.

Note: The third virtual CULTURE & COCKTAILS is FREE for Supporter, Contributor, Patron and Business Arts Partner level members of the Cultural Council, and $15 per person for nonmembers. RSVP ASAP with Debbie Calabria at 561.472.3330 (or visit www.palmbeachculture.com/cocktails and she will email instructions on how to connect live).

April 5 – 5 to 7 pm   

Wayne Hosford

& Stars of Tomorrow

Postponed from last season: Our annual musical finale of this series will feature a conversation with and performance by Wayne Hosford, an award-winning entertainer, singer, comedian, actor and composer, who tickles the keys regularly at Club Colette in Palm Beach, was featured in five different shows at The Colony Hotel’s Royal Room, and has appeared with many cabaret giants (Michael Feinstein, Ann Hampton Callaway, Marilyn Maye). He will introduce musical performances by some amazing young talents, including:

+ Kai Alivia, 18, is the recipient of the 2016 Young Artist’s Award for the Society of the Great American Songbook, and has performed with her musical mentors Jill & Rich Switzer, and at such legendary venues as the Palladium, Carnegie Hall, Birdland Jazz Club, and the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts.

+ Tyler Corbett, 11, a sixth grader at St. Vincent Ferrer School, has performed in shows both there and at the Lake Worth Playhouse, and is a three-year member of the Delray Summer Sing Camp.

+ Kaylee Owen, 8, a second grader at Plumosa School of the Arts, performs as both a singer and pianist with the hip-hop dance club, K-2 Choir, and the Delray Summer Sing Camp.

+ Zachary Lee Williams, a 17-year-old piano player who has performed with the Kretzer Kids, has been described as “an old soul with a classy touch, defying his young age.”

Interviewed by Kathi Kretzer, Founder & President of the Kretzer Music Foundation.

Note: The Yamaha Grand Piano at this event is generously provided by Piano Distributors in Jupiter.

Note: Admission to this season’s final CULTURE & COCKTAILS At The Colony is $75 per person in advance; $85 at the door, $125 for VIP Seating, and FREE for Supporter, Contributor, Patron and Business Arts Partner level members of the Cultural Council. RSVP with Debbie Calabria at 561.472.3330 (or visit www.palmbeachculture.com/cocktails).

The 2020-2021 season of CULTURE & COCKTAILS is generously sponsored so far by The Roe Green Foundation, Roe Green, Founder; Scott Teich, Teich Wealth Management of Raymond James; The Palm Beach Daily News; Legends Radio; and PR-BS, a Boca-based public relations firm.Additional sponsorship opportunities are still available.

Please Note:

All proceeds from CULTURE & COCKTAILS go to support the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County’s mission to champion, engage and grow the arts in Palm Beach County. For membership information, please contact Debbie Calabria at 561.472.3330.

Also:

Topics and speakers are subject to change depending upon the availability of scheduled participants. 

ABOUT THE CULTURAL COUNCIL FOR PALM BEACH COUNTY:

The Cultural Council for Palm Beach County is the only organization solely dedicated to supporting arts and culture in The Palm Beaches, Florida’s Cultural Capital®. In its sustaining effort to foster growth of the cultural sector, the Council provides support services to cultural organizations and creative professionals, administers public and private grant programs, advocates for cultural funding, enhances local arts education, and promotes cultural tourism.

The Council serves as a venue highlighting works by Palm Beach County visual and performing artists at its headquarters in the historic Robert M. Montgomery, Jr. Building in Downtown Lake Worth Beach. The building is also home to the Roe Green Uniquely Palm Beach Store featuring items by local artisans; the Jean S. and Frederic A. Sharf Visitor Information Center; and the outdoor Project Space, offering the best view of the building’s iconic Martin Luther King Jr. mural by Brazilian artist Eduardo Kobra.

The Cultural Council’s galleries are now open to the public with reduced days/hours (Tuesday-Fridays, noon-5 pm) and limited capacity, but will close for the holidays the weeks of December 21 and December 28.

Karate Students Practice Kangeiko

Summer Wadleigh
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Karate Students Practice Kangeiko

KARATE STUDENTS PRACTICE KANGEIKO

WELLINGTON, FL, JANUARY 2, 2021: Students from the Genbu-Kai Karate School arrived at R.G. Kreusler Park in Palm Beach, at 6:45am to participate in the annual Kangeiko. Kangeiko, loosely translated, means “winter training,” and this type of training is a special test of endurance, which forges character development within the participants. It’s also an excellent way for the students to form new friendships. In Japan, Kangeiko is practiced outside, in the snow during the winter. After Kangeiko, all gathered at Benny’s on the Beach for breakfast. 

Pictured front row (L to R): Zachary Sauls, Andres Armadillo, Sensei Keith Moore, Zachary Carpentier, Faith Moreno. Second row (L to R): Brian Virgo, Gordon Webber, Taiga Ramsey, Kota Ramsey, James Ricci, Alasdair Webber, Eugene Ryzhikov, Suzanne Riddle, Mike Riddle, Philip Harris. For more information on the classes, please call 561.804.1002 or visit our website at www.floridagenbukai.com. 

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