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Coming Next Week: Culture & Cocktails

Cultural Council for Palm Beach County to Conclude

CULTURE & COCKTAILS

After 20 Fun & Informative Chat-Packed Seasons with

THE ULTIMATE MUSICAL FINALE

With Rob Russell, Avery Sommers & Special Guests

At The Ben Hotel on Monday, April 14

(Lake Worth Beach, FL – April 8, 2025) After 20 fabulous seasons, Dave Lawrence, President & CEO of the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County, today invited friends and supporters to next week’s final “conversation” of the popular series:

CULTURE & COCKTAILS

At The Ben

“Cheers to 20 Years! The Cultural Council is proud to have presented 96 amazing CULTURE & COCKTAILS conversations featuring over 300 memorable personalities from Tony Award-winning stars (Gary Beach, Faith Prince, Tommy Tune) to best-selling authors (Scott Eyman, Laurence Leamer, Scott Meltzer, James Patterson), from trendsetting designers (Iris Apfel, Badgley Mischka, Arnold Scaasi, Steven Stolman) to wow-worthy artists and performers (Harry BensonBruce HelanderJason Newsted, Edward Villella); plus, so many much-loved and multi-talented neighbors who left us far too soon, such as Lucien Capehart, Alex Dreyfoos, Bob Lappin, John Marshall, Jan McArt, Sharon McDaniel, Jim Ponce, Burt Reynolds, Barry Seidman, James Sheeran, Muriel Siebert, Butch Trucks, and Jack Zink,” says Lawrence.

CULTURE & COCKTAILS has had an extraordinary run, and we are determined to send it off with a musical flourish at our beautiful venue, the rooftop ballroom of The Ben in downtown West Palm Beach,” he adds. “The Ben is located at 251 N. Narcissus Avenue and free valet parking will be provided.”

April 14 / 5 to 7 pm

THE ULTIMATE MUSICAL FINALE

With Rob Russell, Avery Sommers & Special Guests

The final CULTURE & COCKTAILS brings back two longtime favorites and frequent musical performers along with several surprise guests:

+ Rob Russell is a Master Showman widely recognized as “Mr. Palm Beach.” His popular monthly musical series Rob Russell’s Open Micruns twice monthly at Café Centro.  From his years as the polished front man at the distinguished Governor’s Club at Phillips Point to his nearly two decades as producer and emcee of the world famous Royal Room Cabaret at The Colony Hotel, to his recent years as a singer, recording artist (his popular CD Hello Again), and—after graduating top in his class at the Connecticut School of Broadcasting —Dick Robinson’s fill-in tune-spinner on Legends Radio 100.3 FM, Rob Russell has amassed numerous fans of his audience-wowing musical talents and flashy show biz anecdotes. The ever dapper, occasional tapper Russell has even been known to get music lovers and fans to jump up, dance between tables, and join in the revelry.

+ Avery Sommers is a South Florida treasure with a “powerhouse” voice (The New York Times) and a charismatic stage presence. She appeared on Broadway in Ain’t Misbehavin’ replacing Nell Carter, Chicago, Showboat, and Broadway, and was in the first national tours of both The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas (starring Ann-Margret) and Chicago (with Chita Rivera and Joel Grey), for which she won a Los Angles Ovation Award for Best Supporting Actress. On TV, she appeared on Miami Vice, many episodes of B.L. Stryker starring Burt Reynolds, and the CBS soap As The World Turns. Film credits include Lost Everything, Mysterious, Letters to God, and Hiding Victoria. A frequent headliner at The Colony Hotel’s Royal Room, Kravis Center, Palm Beach Institute for the Entertainment Arts, Café Centro, Arts Garage, and more, Sommers is both a Carbonell Award winner and a seven-time nominee and recently received the prestigious Randolph A. Frank Prize for the Performing Arts.

The 2025 season of CULTURE & COCKTAILS is generously sponsored by The Roe Green Foundation, Roe Green, Founder; Donald M. Ephraim Family Foundation; Scott Teich, Senior Vice President, Teich Wealth Management of Raymond James; The Gardens Mall; Lesser, Landy, Smith & Siegel, PLLC; Seacoast Bank; Palm Beach Media Group; Palm Beach Daily News; Legends Radio; and PR-BS, a Boca-based public relations firm.

Please Note:

Admission to the final CULTURE & COCKTAILS At The Ben is $125 per person, and $165 for VIP Seating. To purchase tickets, please call 561.471.2901 or visit https://www.palmbeachculture.com/council-events/council-special-events/culture-cocktails/.

All proceeds from CULTURE & COCKTAILS go to support the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County’s mission to nurture, promote and support a healthy, diverse and inclusive cultural sector in Palm Beach County.

About the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County

The Cultural Council for Palm Beach County is the official support agency for arts and culture in The Palm Beaches, Florida’s Cultural Capital®. Headquartered in the historic Robert M. Montgomery, Jr. building in Downtown Lake Worth Beach, the Council presents exciting year-round exhibitions and performances featuring artists who live or work in Palm Beach County. The Council features spectacular work by Palm Beach County-based professional artists in its Roe Green Uniquely Palm Beach Store and offers complimentary resources for visitors in its Jean S. and Frederic A. Sharf Visitor Information Center. The Council is currently open to the public Tuesday through Saturday from Noon to 5 pm. For more information and a comprehensive calendar of cultural events in The Palm Beaches, visit palmbeachculture.com.

MAY PROGRAMMING AT THE MALL AT WELLINGTON GREEN 2025

WELLINGTON, FL – The Mall at Wellington Green invites the community to its May events! Highlights will include an educational Hurricane Expo, high-octane Zumba classes, and extravagant Mother’s Day celebrations. 

Mother’s Day Wine Tasting Experience 

Friday, May 2

7-9pm

Lifetime Kitchen

$107 per person

Lifetime Kitchen invites wine lovers to a special, Mother’s Day-themed wine workshop, where a Riedel Crystal Brand ambassador will demonstrate the relationship between glass shape and wine taste. Guests will try four wines: Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Oaked Chardonnay, and Unoaked Sauvignon Blanc. Light bites served. Plus, each attendee will take home a Riedel Veloce Tasting Set, which comes with four different wine glasses (valued at $179.99). To register, visit lifetimekitchen.com.

Hurricane Expo

Saturday, May 3

11am-2pm

Grand Court

FREE

The Mall at Wellington Green and The Village of Wellington are pleased to co-host this year’s Hurricane Expo. In preparation for hurricane season, the Mall and the Village will bring in numerous vendors and speakers, including WPTV meteorologist, Kate Wentzel, to help educate and inform the community surrounding hurricane preparedness. The Expo will also include a raffle for a true hurricane must-have, a generator. Plus, children in attendance can enjoy the ‘Kids Corner,’ sponsored by The Mall at Wellington Green, it will include face painters and a bounce house. 

7th Annual Mother’s Day Fashion Show and Tea Party

Saturday, May 10

11am-1pm

Grand Court 

FREE

Join The Mall at Wellington Green in celebrating moms at this annual event! In addition to a fashion show, attendees will enjoy makeovers, a tea party with delicious, sweet treats, a live performance by DJ Lexey, swag bags and more. The fashion show portion will feature clothing and accessories from numerous mall retailers, including Dillard’s, Francesca’s, Tommy Bahama and more, modeled by mother and child duos. 

Mommy and Me Dance Class 

Tuesday, May 20

10:30am-12pm

FREE

Grand Court

The Mall and Palm Beach Dance Academy are thrilled to partner for this Mommy and Me Dance Class. Parents and children under five are invited to the Grand Court for a morning of dancing, music, treats, and more. 

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

About Spinoso Real Estate Group

Spinoso Real Estate Group is a national real estate firm, recognized as a premier operator of enclosed shopping malls and large-scale retail-based mixed-use properties. Spinoso REG has a proven track record of transforming and improving 98 mall and large-scale retail projects totaling more than 84 million square feet from coast-to-coast. As an industry-leading investment and operating platform, the firm offers a wide range of services, including acquisition, recapitalization, market/asset analysis, leasing, property management, repositioning, marketing, development, stabilization, and re-development/densification. For more information, visit spinosoreg.com.

League of Women Voters of Palm Beach County

Invites the Public to a FREE Zoom Event

TASTE OF THE LEAGUE ORIENTATION

Saturday, April 26, 10:30 am

(West Palm Beach, FL – April 4, 2025) The League of Women Voters of Palm Beach County (LWVPBC)today invited concerned citizens and curious neighbors to a FREE Zoom event:

TASTE OF THE LEAGUE ORIENTATION

Saturday, April 26, 10:30 am to Noon

Participants will learn about the League’s work in such critical areas as Health Care, Voting Rights, National Popular Vote, Voter Registration, Gun Safety, and Voter Suppression. This is a FREE event, but advance registration is required online at lwvpbc.org.

“This FREE Zoom meeting is for anyone interested in joining the local nonpartisan League of Women Voters and for those who just want to learn more about the positive work we do,” says Donna Colabella, Membership Director of the Palm Beach County League, which is one of the largest and most active chapters in the country.

Please email any questions about the League of Women Voters or this upcoming TASTE OF THE LEAGUE Zoom meeting to [email protected].

About the League of Women Voters of Palm Beach County:

The League of Women Voters of Palm Beach County is a nonpartisan political organization of women and men of all ages and backgrounds, encouraging informed and active participation in government through education and advocacy. The League of Women Voters of the United States believes that voting is a fundamental citizen right that must be guaranteed. For more information, please visit lwvpbc.org or facebook.com/lwvpbc.

Yesteryear Village to host Breakfast with the Easter Bunny and activities

Who/What: Breakfast with the Easter Bunny is returning to Yesteryear Village at the South
Florida Fairgrounds. The event includes a breakfast buffet, photo opportunities with the bunny,
Easter Egg hunts, craft activities and more.
 
When: Saturday, April 12
8:30-10:30 a.m. – Breakfast and photos with the Easter Bunny
11 a.m.-1 p.m. – Easter Egg Hunt, DJ, activities, crafts and games (no breakfast)
Where: Yesteryear Village at the South Florida Fairgrounds, 9067 Southern Blvd., West Palm
Beach
Admission with breakfast buffet, Meet & Greet and Easter Bunny photos:
$30 for ages 11 and older per person and $15 for children 10 and younger per person
Admission after 10:30 a.m. (does not include breakfast): $10
Tickets: https://www.southfloridafair.com/p/buy-tickets. Online sales are available now and will
end on Wednesday, April 9, at 11:59 p.m. Tickets that do not include the breakfast will be
available for $10 at the gate starting at 10:30 a.m. on the day of the event.
Where: Yesteryear Village, 9067 Southern Blvd., West Palm Beach
Other details: Guests should bring their own Easter basket to collect the pre-filled eggs. 
There will be two egg hunts at 9:45 a.m. and 11:30 a.m., with each hunt staggered by age
group in the following order: 2 & under, 3-5 years old, 6-7 years old, 8-10 years old.
The same order will be followed for both time slots.
There also will be an Easter bonnet contest for those who bring their own decorated hats.
For more information: Call 561-793-0333 or email Lorie Stinson at [email protected].
Website: www.southfloridafair.com
Link to b-roll: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/7c52qobwng10x93su8k7m/Breakfast-with-the-
Bunny-B-roll.mp4?rlkey=b7ivjaaiwkwskhqv9h8aybx55&st=q0be3dny&dl=0

National Wildlife Refuge Association Welcomes Natalie Balaguer as South Florida Regional Partnership Specialist

The National Wildlife Refuge Association welcomes Natalie Balaguer as the new South Florida Regional Partnership Specialist. Based in her home region, Natalie is already making waves across South Florida by reinvigorating partnerships and stewarding exciting conservation initiatives through the Urban Wildlife Refuge Program.

Working in close collaboration with Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge and local organizations, Natalie is focused on bringing communities together to connect with nature in meaningful, lasting ways. With her roots in South Florida and a background in business administration from Florida Atlantic University, Natalie combines her deep personal ties with professional know-how to strengthen community relationships, engage new audiences, and support conservation efforts on the ground.

“Natalie brings the passion and energy we need to take our South Florida Urban Wildlife Refuge Program work to the next level,” said Desirée Sorenson-Groves, President & CEO of the National Wildlife Refuge Association. “She’s a connector, a collaborator, and a natural leader—someone who understands the power of place and people. We’re incredibly lucky to have her on board.”

Natalie is building on the strong foundation laid by Liz Figueroa, who helped lay a strong foundation through projects like the Conservation Ranger Camp, Floating Wetlands, and Pocket Refuges. Those programs are already seeing big success: the Floating Wetland installed at SouthTech Academy is thriving, the second annual Conservation Ranger Camp kicks off this spring, and two new Pocket Refuges are set to be planted soon.

In her role, Natalie builds on this momentum while bringing her own vision to the table. She’s partnering with groups like StandFirm Outreach, the Friends of Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee NWR, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to deepen outreach, enhance programming, and celebrate nature across South Florida. She’s also supporting local storytelling—like the powerful film Garden of the Glades—as it reaches new audiences at film festivals and community events throughout the region.

As a first-generation immigrant and proud member of the Hispanic community, Natalie is committed to creating more inclusive pathways to conservation. Her fluency in Spanish and her passion for breaking down barriers make her a vital bridge to South Florida’s diverse communities.

For more information or to connect with Natalie, you can reach her at [email protected].

Retro Fun Awaits: City of West Palm Beach Introduces ‘Vintage Vibes’

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The new event features ’80s and ’90s nostalgia in Downtown West Palm Beach

WEST PALM BEACH, FL (April 7, 2025) The City of West Palm Beach in partnership with the West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority is thrilled to unveil Vintage Vibes Powered by LOVE The Palm Beaches, a new free community event. The festive celebration will take place on Saturday, May 3, 2025, from 4 to 9 p.m. on the West Palm Beach Waterfront. Vintage Vibes aims to capture the spirit of community with a vibrant ’80s and ’90s nostalgia and entertainment. The event will feature a range of retro-inspired experiences, including live music, a vintage market, an art village showcasing local artists’ vintage pieces, creative art workshops, arcades, and an outdoor roller-skating rink. Fantastic food vendors will also provide dining specials. 

“Vintage Vibes is a wonderful opportunity for our community to come together and celebrate the vibrant culture of West Palm Beach,” said West Palm Beach Mayor Keith A. James. “We are thrilled to offer this free event and look forward to seeing everyone on the waterfront. It’s a chance for residents and visitors alike to experience a nostalgic journey through music, arts, and entertainment, all while supporting local businesses and enjoying the scenic beauty of our waterfront.”

The festivities include: 

  • Live music

The event will begin with a performance by Rubixx, a high-energy band ’80s hits, followed by Zendatta, a tribute group delivering iconic songs from The Police.

  • Retro Replay

A retro gaming lounge, loaded in the Lake Pavilion with classic arcade games, 8-bit console stations, and multiplayer tournaments. All games are free to play, and attendees can relive the glory days of gaming with Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, and more. 

  • Remix Art Village 

Attendees can explore and purchase unique art pieces from the 1980s and 1990s. From prints to fanny packs, attendees are sure to experience bold nostalgia.

  • Rollerback Roller Rink 

Attendees can glide back in time with an ’80s-style outdoor roller rink. This free activity is perfect for attendees of all ages. Skates will be available to rent, but participants must have socks.  

  • Remix Art Studio

Several free ’80s ’90s-inspired art workshops will take place on a first-come, first-served basis. All supplies are included, and there are only 30 spots per session.

Tiny Doors & More ’80s & ’90s Edition | Two sessions: 4:15 – 5:15 p.m. and 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.  

Attendees can choose between crafting a Vintage/Retro Tiny Door from a fun, creative buffet or painting a Tiny Retro Masterpiece on a 4” x 4” canvas. Available materials include neon vibes, pixel art, and iconic designs!  

Back to the ’80s & ’90s Painting Workshop| 6:45 – 7:45 p.m. 

A guided painting session to create a small canvas masterpiece inspired by the vibrant colors, bold designs, and iconic pop culture of the ’80s and ’90s. A professional artist will be there to help participants bring their retro vision to life.  

Decorate a Notebook ’80s Style | 8 – 9 p.m. 

Attendees can personalize their notebook cover with bubble letters, vibrant patterns, and nostalgic pop culture images. If they want to elevate their designs, stickers, fun embellishments, and all things retro will be available

  • A Classic Car Show

A display of vintage automobiles from on-site.  

  • Retro Bites

Local restaurantswill offer nostalgic flavors, exploration of the classic-inspired downtown dining options. 

“Early May has always been a time for locals and visitors into our area to gather, so we wanted to continue that tradition by launching a new event,” said Angela Poco, Community Events Manager of the City of West Palm Beach. “Vintage Vibes aims to tap into nostalgic feelings of the past with its diverse range of activities from the ’80s and ’90s, all while supporting our local businesses. We invite everyone to join us for this exciting retro celebration, and we encourage all attendees to wear their ’80s and ’90s attire!”

Sponsors for the event include: LOVE The Palm Beaches, West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority, West Palm Beach Community Redevelopment Agency, Palm Beach County Supervisor of Elections, West Palm Beach Antique and Flea Market, AYR Florida, Palm Beach Health Network, Visit Palm Beach, SuperCar Week, NEW COUNTRY 103.1, SUNNY 107.9, 97.9 WRMF, Fox Sports 640 South Florida, X102.3, Party 96.3, News Talk 850 WFTL, and WPBF 25.

For more information about Vintage Vibes, or the City’s community events, visit wpb.org/events or call (561) 822-1515 (TTY: 800-955-8771), or follow the City of West Palm Beach on FacebookX, and Instagram.

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About the City of West Palm Beach:  
The City of West Palm Beach is a vibrant and dynamic City located on the Atlantic coast of Florida. With a rich history, a thriving arts and cultural scene, and a commitment to sustainability, the City of West Palm Beach is an ideal place to live, work, and play. As one of the three largest cities making up the South Florida region, and the central City of Palm Beach County, West Palm Beach is a vibrant, growing, waterfront City that seamlessly blends the business advantages available in the region with a more refined and relaxed environment for living and working, making it an exceptional destination for both residents and professionals alike. To learn more about the City of West Palm Beach, visit us on our official website, or follow us on our social media: FacebookInstagramX (formerly known as Twitter), and/or LinkedIn. To keep up with the City’s event news, follow @eventswpb on Instagram and Facebook.

About the West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority     

The West Palm Beach DDA is an independent taxing district created in 1967 by a special act of the Florida Legislature. Its mission is to promote and enhance a safe, vibrant Downtown for our residents, businesses and visitors through the strategic development of economic, social and cultural opportunities. 

DISH IT OUT!

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A RESTAURANT WORKFORCE COMPETITION

 FOR TEENS & YOUNG ADULTS

Shaping Future Culinary Professionals with Real-World Experience and Industry Collaboration

Community Classroom Project (CCP) is excited to announce the launch of Dish It Out!, an Olympiad-style restaurant workforce competition that aims to identify and train the next generation of culinary talent. In collaboration with South Florida’s top chefs, culinary instructors and food entrepreneurs—and in partnership with the Palm Beach County School District—CCK has developed an innovative workforce training program that gives young foodies the tools they need to pursue careers in the culinary world.

“The restaurant industry is built on passion and grit, and Dish It Out! is our way of ensuring young culinary talent is given the guidance, training and real-world experience they need to succeed,” said Ali Kaufman, Founder of Community Classroom Project & Space of Mind. “We’re thrilled to launch this program and partner with industry leaders who are just as passionate about cultivating the next generation of hospitality professionals.”

More than just a competition, the Dish It Out! event will serve as a pipeline to careers in the restaurant and hospitality industries. Selected participants will earn a spot in one of two immersive Culinary Training Programs in the Summer and Fall of 2025. These programs will prepare participants for real-world restaurant careers through hands-on experience, mentorship, and career coaching.

“There’s no better way to learn than by doing,” said Chef Blake Malatesta, Founding Chef of Community Classroom Kitchen. “We’re giving these students a front-row seat to the realities of the restaurant business, from kitchen prep to guest service, so they can step into their first job with confidence. The goal is to help them discover where they shine and set them up for long-term success.”

Dish It Out! participants will take part in both front-of-house and back-of-house challenges that simulate the high-pressure environment of a restaurant. Back-of-house challenges include the Mise en Place Race, where participants must organize ingredients quickly and efficiently, and the Knife Skills Test, assessing their precision in chopping. On the front-of-house side, the Table Setting Relay will test their speed and accuracy, while the Order Taking Roleplay will challenge their ability to handle complex customer requests.

In addition to these hands-on technical skills, soft skills are critical for long-term success in the culinary world. Activities like the Teamwork Tower and Time Management Puzzle will help participants strengthen collaboration and planning abilities, while the Leadership Challenge gives them the opportunity to lead under pressure. At the Self-Care Station, students will focus on stress management techniques, preparing them for the fast-paced and demanding nature of the restaurant industry. These soft skills are essential not only for navigating day-to-day operations but also for fostering a mindset that leads to success in any culinary career.

The Dish It Out! competition is just the beginning of a structured workforce training pathway, which will span multiple stages, guiding participants toward long-term career success in the restaurant industry at CCP partners like Wine & Spirits Kitchen, Driftwood, DADA, Flybird Kitchen and more. This pathway includes:

  • Restaurant Bootcamp: A one-day Olympiad-style event featuring both front- and back-of-house challenges.
  • Restaurant Skills Workshop: Learn the fundamentals of restaurant operations and hospitality culture.
  • Life Skills Workshop: Build essential workplace skills such as time management, communication, and teamwork.
  • Meal Box Project: Gain hands-on experience preparing and distributing community meal boxes.
  • Ghost Kitchen: Work in a student-run delivery kitchen, mentored by top local chefs.
  • Restaurant Stages: Short apprenticeships at top local restaurants.
  • Restaurant Job Placement: Graduates secure positions in local establishments.
  • Career Coaching: Ongoing mentorship for long-term career success.
  • Train the Trainer: Top graduates will be invited to mentor future program participants.

Generously funded by the Children’s Services Council and the Community Classroom Project’s JP Kline Culinary Arts Scholarship Fund, the program offers merit- and need-based scholarships to ensure accessibility for all aspiring chefs and hospitality professionals.

EVENT INFORMATION: 

When: Saturday, May 3, 2025 |  9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Where: The Hub at Space of Mind | 101 NW 1st Ave., Delray Beach, FL 33444

Who: Young aspiring chefs and hospitality professionals, ages 14-18, eager to launch their careers in the restaurant industry.

How to Apply: https://yourccp.org/dish-it-out/#apply

Applications are due by April 1, 2025. Selected candidates will be invited to participate in the competition for a chance to secure their spot in the program.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY CLASSROOM PROJECT: The Community Classroom Project (CCP), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded by Space of Mind, is rethinking education and reducing school-related stress. CCP connects students, parents, educators, schools, mental health providers and the community through experiential learning, entrepreneurship opportunities and scholarships. Their Community Classroom Kitchen (CCK) initiative enhances mental and physical health through cooking and communal dining while training the next generation of culinary professionals.

www.yourccp.org | @communityclassroomproject

FROM CLASSROOM TO CENTER STAGE: KRAVIS CENTER’S EVENTS CELEBRATE YOUNG ARTISTS’ ACHIEVEMENTS

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See tomorrow’s stars perform live in two can’t-miss spring showcases

(WEST PALM BEACH) — Two unforgettable nights, hundreds of young performers and one powerful message: the arts change lives. This spring, the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts will present two signature events that showcase the artistic accomplishments of local students. On Thursday, May 1, Dreyfoos Hall will host Spotlight on Young Musicians at 7 p.m., followed by the Dream Awards on Sunday, June 1, at 7 p.m., celebrating excellence in high school musical theater.

“Our stage is a launching pad for so many talented young people in our community,” said Tracy C. Butler, senior director of education at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts. “We’re proud to provide opportunities that support their growth as artists and individuals. These programs are more than performances — they are celebrations of creativity, dedication and the power of the arts to transform lives.”

Presented in partnership with the Youth Orchestra of Palm Beach County, the School District of Palm Beach County and the Palm Beach County Music Teachers Association, Spotlight on Young Musicians, sponsored by Helen S. and Merrill L. Bank Foundation, has been a beloved tradition at the Kravis Center since 1992. The program has featured 40,000 student performers over the years, offering an inspiring evening of music and a platform to highlight outstanding school music programs. Tickets for the May 1 event are $12 in advance and $15 at the door.

Dream Awards Opening Number

For the fifth year, the Kravis Center Dream Awards — generously sponsored by Ricki Gail Conway and The Doris & Stanley Tananbaum Foundation — will honor exceptional student performers and designers in musical theater. Held in Dreyfoos Hall, the event culminates with two standout students selected to represent the region at The Jimmy Awards (National High School Musical Theatre Awards) in New York City. Participating schools must select productions from a pre-approved list to be eligible for consideration. Tickets for the June 1 event range from $15 to $25.

The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts is a nonprofit performing arts center located at 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm Beach. The Kravis Center provides exceptional cultural experiences that entertain, inspire and educate audiences across the entire community. For general information, visit kravis.org.

To learn more about the Kravis Center’s education programs, visit kravis.org/education-community. To help support the Kravis Center’s education mission, call the development department at 561-651-4320 or visit kravis.org and click on Giving and Support.

Paris Ballet to Present Two Star-Packed Mixed Bills at the Kravis Center this May

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April 11, 2025 (WEST PALM BEACH, Fla.) — The prestigious Jupiter-based dance school Paris Ballet is gearing up to present two fabulous mixed bills this May at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts. The performances will include selections from renowned ballets, as well as contemporary styles including jazz, tap, and modern—all performed by the school’s talented roster of students.

Paris Ballet’s Incredible Mixed Bill takes place on Sunday, May 11 at 7:30 p.m. The show will feature the Midsummer Night’s Dream Suite and La Bayadère Act III/The Kingdom of the Shades. Tickets start at $40/person and are on sale now.

The second production, Another Great Mixed Bill, will occur on Saturday,May 25, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. The dynamic performance will feature A Midsummer Night’s Dreamand works in ballet, modern, contemporary, neo-classical, tap, and jazz. Tickets are $40/person and are on sale now.

This year’s performances will highlight the incredible talents of three senior students: Nicholas Bondar, Bianca Kimball, and Gianna Nembhard. Bondar, who was accepted to Harvard, will attend the Ivy League institution as a double major in physics and TDM (theater, dance, and media). He plans to dance with the Harvard Ballet Company.

“These spring performances enable Paris Ballet students to showcase the beautiful artistry and caliber of skills gained while dancing at our school,” said Jean-Hugues Feray, Paris Ballet’s artistic director and founder. “I am so proud of their efforts and enthusiasm for the art of dance. I want to thank all these incredibly talented and dedicated young dancers who will bring this show to life.”

A native of France, Feray served as a principal dancer with many international companies, including Ballet Florida and the French National Ballet. With both his school and conservatory, he and his staff focus on teaching ballet in its purest, original French form, in addition to other forms of dance. He is proud to use his skills and talents to teach nationally and internationally, including masterclasses at institutions such as Joffrey Ballet School and Milwaukee Ballet 2 and its school, and serve as a judge for international ballet competitions.

Tickets are on sale now. For tickets, call the Kravis Center box office at (561) 832-7469 or visit kravis.org.

If You Go (Calendar Listing)

An Incredible Mixed Bill
May 11, 2025 at 7:30 p.m.
The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts – Dreyfoos Hall
Featuring a dynamic performance of the Midsummer Night’s Dream Suite and La Bayadère Act III/The Kingdom of the Shades. Tickets start at $40/person. For tickets, call (561) 832-7469 for the Kravis Center Box office or visit kravis.org

Guests who purchase tickets online in May can also take advantage of a special discount for the May 11 production—part of the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County’s MOSAIC (Month of Shows, Art, Ideas, and Culture) celebration during the month of May.

Another Great Mixed Bill May 25, 2025 at 7:30 p.m.The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts – Rinker Playhouse

Showcasing a beautiful performance featuring the Midsummer Night’s DreamSuite and works in ballet, modern, contemporary, neo-classical, tap, and jazz. Tickets are $40/person. For tickets, call (561) 832-7469 for the Kravis Center Box office or visit kravis.org.

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About Paris Ballet
Paris Ballet and Dance was founded in 2009 by Jean-Hugues Feray, a native of France and former principal dancer with many international companies, including Ballet Florida and the French National Ballet. Located in Jupiter, Fla., the school offers world-class dance training for students starting at age three. With a stellar reputation for quality, exceptional master classes and top-notch training in ballet, jazz, tap and modern, the school draws 100 students per year from as far as Vero Beach, Lake Worth Beach and Wellington. The school is also home to the prestigious not-for-profit Paris Ballet America, an elite accelerated training program for students preparing for professional dance careers. For more about Paris Ballet and Dance and Paris Ballet America, call (561) 308-8377 or visit parisballetdance.com.

Wellington Regional Medical Center Celebrates Milestone of 5,000 Robotic Surgical Cases

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Wellington, FL – April 14, 2025 – Wellington Regional Medical Center is proud to announce a significant milestone in its commitment to advanced surgical care, having successfully completed 5,000 robotic surgical cases. This achievement underscores the hospital’s dedication to utilizing cutting-edge technology to enhance patient outcomes and provide minimally invasive surgical options.

The 5,000th robotic surgery was performed by Kyle Eldredge, DO, utilizing the state-of-the-art da Vinci® Surgical Systems from Intuitive. These advanced systems offer surgeons enhanced precision, dexterity, and control, enabling minimally invasive procedures that often result in less pain, reduced blood loss, and faster recovery times for patients.

Pam Tahan, Chief Executive Officer of Wellington Regional Medical Center, expressed her pride in this remarkable accomplishment:

“Reaching 5,000 robotic surgical cases is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our surgical team and the trust our patients place in us. We are committed to providing the highest quality care and continuously advancing our surgical capabilities. The use of Intuitive’s da Vinci® Surgical Systems has been instrumental in achieving this milestone, allowing us to offer our patients the most advanced surgical options available.”

Wellington Regional Medical Center remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of medical innovation and delivering exceptional care to the community. This milestone reflects the hospital’s ongoing efforts to improve patient outcomes through the adoption of advanced surgical technologies.

For more information about Wellington Regional Medical Center and its robotic surgery program, please visit Wellington Regional Medical Center’s website.

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About Wellington Regional Medical Center

Wellington Regional Medical Center is a 235-bed acute care hospital accredited by The Joint Commission. Celebrating more than 30 years of treating residents in Wellington and the surrounding community, the hospital offers a wide range of services, including comprehensive stroke care, comprehensive lung program, minimally invasive services, cardiac services, a birthing center and level III NICU, comprehensive women’s center, hepatobiliary surgical procedures, intraoperative radiation therapy, interventional procedures and a wellness and weight loss center. To learn more about the hospital, please visit www.wellingtonregional.com.