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The Adolph & Rose Levis JCC’s West Boca Theatre Company Ushers in

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2025 with Award-Winning Performances

Boca Raton, Fla. (Dec. 12, 2024) – The Adolph & Rose Levis JCC Sandler Center is excited to present a new season of award-winning comedic and dramatic performances presented by West Boca Theatre Company. These limited-engagement live performances are all part of Levis JCC Sandler Center’s comprehensive season of arts, culture and learning featuring author appearances, wide-ranging performing and visual arts programming, adult learning discussions and the 9th Annual Judy Levis Krug Boca Raton Jewish Film Festival.

Local theater has been a strong part of our community’s commitment to culture, offering a platform where diverse voices meet to celebrate a variety of human experiences. For more than 20 years, the Levis JCC’s West Boca Theatre Company has been a respected part of the South Florida theater scene, drawing both lifelong theatre enthusiasts and newcomers who love the experience of live theater.

“I love that people come to the Levis JCC Sandler Center for programs that challenge them to learn, grow, meet and connect,” said Stephanie Owitz, Vice President, Arts, Culture and Learning, Levis JCC Sandler Center. “This season of theater performances promises to do just that. I am very excited about this season’s lineup – it’s a wonderful mix of comedy, compelling drama and entertaining staged readings. Our productions offer really wonderful content, presented by excellent performers, in a warm and friendly community setting.”

WLRN is the proud sponsor of West Boca Theatre Company’s 2025 season:

My Old Lady by Israel Horovitz

Wednesdays, January 8, 15, 22, 2 pm
Saturdays, Janaury 11, 18, 7:30 pm
Sundays, January 5, 12, 19, 2 pm

Famed playwright Israel Horovitz has written more than 70 produced plays, which have been translated into more than 30 languages worldwide. Horovitz has called this play his Valentine to Paris. When a down on his luck middle aged man inherits an apartment in Paris, he plans to solve his financial woes by selling it. He arrives on the doorstep and discovers that the elderly woman living there has lifetime habitation rights under an arcane French law. Because he has no other place to go, she invites him to stay in the spacious apartment. What ensues is a spiral of friendship, romance with the old lady’s outspoken daughter, and some uncomfortable revelations about his father.

My Name is Asher Lev by Aaron Posner

Wednesdays, February 5, 12, 19, 2 p.m.
Saturdays, February 8, 15, 7:30 p.m.
Sundays, February 2, 9, 16, 2 p.m.
Based on Chaim Potok’s novel, My Name is Asher Lev follows the journey of a young Jewish painter torn between his Hassidic upbringing and his desperate need to fulfill his artistic promise. When his artistic genius threatens to destroy his relationship with his parents and community, young Asher realizes he must make a choice between art and faith. This adaptation of a modern classic presents a heartbreaking and triumphant vision of what it means to be an artist.

ART by Yasmina Reza, translated by Christopher Hampton

Wednesdays, March 5, 12, 2 p.m.
Saturdays, March 8, 15, 7:30 p.m.
Sundays, March 2, 9, 2 p.m.
ART is a thought-provoking and hilarious exploration of the complexities of friendships, the subjective nature of art, and the impact of individual perspectives on relationships. Premiering in Paris in 1994, ART quickly became a worldwide sensation, translated into and produced in 30 languages, receiving numerous awards, including the prestigious Tony Award for Best Play in 1998. The comedy concerns three long-time friends, Serge, Marc, and Yvan. Serge, indulging his penchant for modern art, buys a large, expensive, completely white painting. Marc is horrified, and their relationship suffers considerable strain as a result of their differing opinions about what constitutes “art”. Yvan, caught in the middle of the conflict, tries to please and mollify both of them.

Words…Alive!

Founded by Eunice Bernard and Carol Clarke Geshlider
In the tradition of Readers Theater, these staged readings, performed by remarkably talented actors, will bring to life extraordinary characters from great literature.

Thursday, January 23, 2 p.m.
Frank & Martha
Inspired by Nancy Horan’s bestselling novel, Loving Frank, about the illicit love affair between Frank Lloyd Wright and Martha Bouton “Mamah” Borthwick and the public shame they experienced in early 20th Century America.Tuesday, March 18, 2 p.m.
Marriage & Other Mysteries
The words of Stephen Sondheim, Art Buchwald, Jane Hirschfield, Henrik Ibsen, Lois Wyes, and others are brought ‘alive’ to look at love and marriage; the courage it takes to truly love and the personal dignity that must be maintained if love is to last.

General Admission is $35/ticket. Preferred seating and concessions are available at all performances and tickets have no service charges. For tickets and to view the complete Arts, Culture and Learning brochure, visit levisjcc.org/culture or call 561-558-2520. All events take place at the Levis JCC Sandler Center located at 21050 95th Avenue S. in Boca Raton.

About the Levis JCC Sandler Center
The Levis JCC Phyllis & Harvey Sandler Center highlights renowned talent from artists and actors to authors and so much more and gives adults of all ages and faiths an opportunity to connect with others who share similar interests in continuing education, travel, and social events. Learn more at levisjcc.org/culture or call 561-558-2520.

About the Adolph & Rose Levis Jewish Community Center

The Adolph & Rose Levis Jewish Community Center promotes and enhances Jewish culture, heritage, and values through educational, spiritual, social, wellness and recreational programs for individuals of all ages. With a preschool, summer camp, family activities, athletics, cultural arts, adult enrichment, and special needs programming, as well as a Resale Boutique, the Levis JCC offers something for everyone. 

Boys Town Experts Offer Guidance on Coping with Grief and Loneliness During the Holidays

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Practical Tips to Navigate the Holidays While Honoring Loved Ones and Building Connection

Palm Beach County & Broward County (December 12, 2024): – For many, the holiday season is a bittersweet time, filled with cherished memories of loved ones who are no longer here or feelings of isolation in the midst of celebrations. Coping with grief or combating loneliness during the holidays can feel overwhelming, but Boys Town experts want individuals and families to know they are not alone—and there are ways to find comfort and meaning during this time.

“The holiday season contains many messages about how things should be in order to create the most wonderful time of the year,” said Diane Andreou, PhD, Director and licensed Psychologist of Boys Town Behavioral Health Clinic.  “It’s ok to recognize that some of these messages are not practical or realistic.”

Tips for Coping with Grief During the Holidays

  1. Navigate Traditions with Care
  1. Consider which traditions bring joy and which may feel too painful this year. It’s okay to modify or skip certain activities.
  2. Engage in traditions that connect you to your loved one’s memory, like making their favorite recipe or lighting a candle in their honor.
  3. Create New Traditions
  1. Starting something new, like volunteering or creating a memory box, can help you honor the past while finding a positive way to move forward.
  2. Invite family and friends to share memories or stories of your loved one to keep their spirit alive.
  3. Embrace the Full Range of Emotions
  4. Allow yourself to grieve and feel joy without guilt. It’s okay to laugh, cry, or experience both emotions at once.
  5. Reach Out for Support
  1. Talk with trusted family or friends about your feelings. Sometimes, simply sharing can lift some of the emotional weight.
  2. Boys Town’s National Hotline (1-800-448-3000) is available 24/7 to provide support, whether you’re feeling isolated or overwhelmed.

Tips for Combating Loneliness During the Holidays

  1. Connect with Community
  1. Seek out local events or volunteer opportunities. Helping others can create a sense of belonging and purpose.
  2. Invite friends or neighbors to join you for a simple meal or activity.
  3. Practice Self-Care
  1. Schedule activities that bring you peace, whether it’s journaling, walking, or engaging in a hobby you love.
  2. Remember, small moments of joy can add up to a more fulfilling holiday season.
  3. Leverage Technology
  4. Reach out to loved ones virtually if distance prevents in-person connections. A video call can provide comfort and closeness.
  5. Plan Ahead for Difficult Moments
  6. Identify the times you may feel most lonely, such as holiday mornings or evenings, and plan activities or phone calls to fill those gaps.

“Remember to pay attention to how you and those around you deal with stress,” Dr. Andreou. “You can take steps to care for yourself and your relationships while enjoying the holiday season.”

About Boys Town South Florida:

For over a century, Boys Town has been a beacon of hope, transforming the lives of America’s children and families through innovative youth, research, and healthcare programs. Boys Town South Florida has been providing life-changing care to area children and families since 1991. Our programs and services are part of the Boys Town national network and include the organization’s research-proven methods, which ensure that troubled children and families across the country receive the right care, at the right time, in the right way. You can find more information about Boys Town online at www.boystown.org.

Note: 

Boys Town behavioral health experts are available for interviews to discuss coping with grief, share mental health strategies, and provide additional insights for families navigating loss and loneliness during the holiday season. For more information or to schedule an interview, contact Cara MacVane at 561.685.2342 or CKMacVane@gmail.com.

Palm Beach Photographic Centre is Offering Discounts of Up to 80% Off This Month on Books, Cameras, Photo Supplies and More During Special Holiday Sale

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Palm Beach Photographic Centre is Offering Discounts of Up to 80% Off This Month on Books, Cameras, Photo Supplies and More During Special Holiday Sale

Photo Centre to Announce a Major Transformation in Early 2025Photo Centre to Announce a Major Transformation in Early 2025

(West Palm Beach, FL – December 12, 2024) Fatima NeJame, president and chief executive officer of the world-renowned Palm Beach Photographic Centre (PBPC), today announced a Special Holiday Sale offering discounts from 20 percent to up to 80 percent off on a wide variety of photographic books, name brand cameras, camera bags, tripods, studio equipment, and more.

“The Photo Centre is inviting art fans and photographers of all ages to come to our over-stocked Pro Shop throughout December and snap up all the great buys and bargains during this historic clearance,” says NeJame.

“This is an amazing moment of transition for our 38-year-old cultural institution that has been located since 2009 within the City Center municipal complex in downtown West Palm Beach, and we will be announcing a major transformation in early 2025,” she adds.

About the Palm Beach Photographic Centre:

The Photo Centre is located at the downtown City Center municipal complex at 415 Clematis Street in downtown West Palm Beach. Hours are 10 am to 6 pm Monday through Thursday, and 10 am to 5 pm Friday and Saturday. For more information, please call 561.253.2600 or visit www.workshop.org or www.fotofusion.org.

The Palm Beach Photographic Centre is a non-profit organization dedicated to enriching life through the photographic arts. All donations are still greatly appreciated at www.workshop.org/contrib.

EMPOWERMENT THROUGH KNOWLEDGE: MIND, MUSIC, MOVEMENT FOUNDATION FOR NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS KICKS OFF FREE COFFEE TALK SERIES

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The 2024-2025 series launches with Dr. Linda Pao presenting ‘Current Diagnosis and Treatment of Neurodegenerative Disorders’

Carrie Bradburn/CAPEHART

Palm Beach Gardens, FL – December 12, 2024 – The Mind, Music, and Movement Foundation for Neurological Disorders, Inc. (M3F) proudly announces the launch of its winter/spring Coffee Talk series, a platform designed to educate and inspire the community. The series kicks off with a presentation by Dr. Linda Pao, MD, a renowned neurologist with over thirty-two years of experience in neurological care. Dr. Pao will share insights on the latest advancements in diagnosing and treating neurodegenerative disorders. This free and interactive event will take place on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM at Tropical Sands Christian Church, 2726 Burns Rd., Palm Beach Gardens, FL.

“Our Coffee Talk series is a vital part of M3F’s mission to empower individuals and families affected by neurodegenerative disorders,” said Beth Elgort, Founder and President of MF3. “Dr. Pao’s expertise and compassionate approach offer invaluable tools for navigating these conditions’ challenges while fostering hope and community connection.”

Dr. Pao’s presentation will provide practical insights for individuals and families facing neurodegenerative conditions such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases. Known for her patient-focused approach, Dr. Pao integrates cutting-edge research, genetics, and holistic lifestyle strategies to help improve neurological health.

“This event is more than a lecture; it’s an opportunity to share actionable knowledge, answer questions, and connect with those affected by these diseases,” said Dr. Linda Pao. “Together, we can explore ways to manage and improve neurological health while drawing on the community resources that M3F provides.”

Attendees will also have the chance to engage in a dynamic Q&A session, meet others facing similar challenges, and learn about M3F’s wide range of alternative programs, including movement, two types of support groups: one for people living with a neurodegenerative disease, and the second group is for caregivers, Rhythms from the Heart chorus for people living with Parkinson’s, dementia, and Alzheimer’s, dance, drumming, and yoga.

Event Details

What: Coffee Talk with Dr. Linda Pao

Topic: Current Diagnosis and Treatment of Neurodegenerative Disorders

When: Wednesday, December 18, 2024, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM

Where: Tropical Sands Christian Church, 2726 Burns Rd., Palm Beach Gardens, FL

Cost: Free (Registration required)

Register: https://www.m3f.org/events

Contact: Call (561) 510-8611 or email info@m3f.org

About the Mind Music Movement Foundation

The Mind, Music, and Movement Foundation for Neurological Disorders, Inc. (M3F) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by neurodegenerative diseases. Through innovative programming—including music therapy, dance, yoga, movement, drumming, brain game sessions, and support services—M3F promotes confidence, wellness, and friendship. The foundation’s integrative approach helps to improve mobility, balance, speech, and mental well-being. For more information, visit https://www.m3f.org.

Calendar Listing:

Wednesday, December 18, 2024, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM – The Mind, Music, Movement Foundation (M3F) kicks off its winter/spring Coffee Talk series with Dr. Linda Pao, MD, a distinguished neurologist discussing the latest in diagnosing and treating neurodegenerative disorders. This free and informative event will be held at Tropical Sands Christian Church, 2726 Burns Rd., Palm Beach Gardens, FL. Registration is required at https://www.m3f.org/events or call (561) 510-8611.

The Donald M. Ephraim Sun & Stars International Film Festival©

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Announces Razzle-Dazzle Opening Night Premiere of

LIZA:

A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story

At the Kravis Center’s Rinker Playhouse, January 23 at 7:30 pm

Director Bruce David Klein Invited to Attend Opening Night Reception and Screening of Documentary About EGOT Winner Liza Minnelli

(West Palm Beach, FL – December 9, 2024) The Donald M. Ephraim Sun & Stars International Film Festival© (SASIFF), presented by MorseLife, returns early next year with more than two-dozen world-class movies from all over the world, kicking off with a razzle-dazzle screening of LIZA: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story. The Florida Premiere of this sizzling documentary about superstar Liza Minnelli will be shown on Thursday, January 23, in the Kravis Center’s Rinker Playhouse, 701 Okeechobee Blvd in West Palm Beach 33401.

Directed by Bruce David Klein—who has been invited to attend on opening night—LIZA was described by The Hollywood Reporter as “a generous portrait of a legendary showbiz survivor, warmly celebratory but also unquestionably authentic.” Minnelli is, of course, a very rare EGOT winner as a recipient of the “Grand Slam” of entertainment honors: Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Awards.

“One film is barely enough to encompass all the facets of Liza Minnelli’s life and career, but director Klein pulls it off with many a humorously bossy aside from the Oscar-winning Cabaret star herself. This portrait puts the emphasis on a lifetime of meaningful relationships with mentors including Kay Thompson, Bob Fosse, and Halston as young Liza emerges from the shadow of her famous father, film director Vincente Minnelli, and her legendary mother Judy Garland to become one of the most extraordinary artists of our time.  Appearances by friends and collaborators include Mia Farrow, the late Chita Rivera, Ben Vereen, George Hamilton, and more,” according to SASIFF Artistic Director Barbara Scharres, the former director of programming at the Gene Siskel Film Center at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago.

As cinematic expert Owen Gleiberman gushed about LIZA in Variety ,”Liza Minnelli’s life proves as radiant as her art in Bruce David Klein’s scintillating documentary.” While reviewer Elizabeth Weitzman in The Wrap hails the film as “enchanting… a long overdue and entirely deserved tribute… truly terrific.”

The glittery opening night of The Donald M. Ephraim Sun & Stars International Film Festival 2025 will include a cocktail reception with light bites and beverages in the Kravis Center’s Cohen Pavilion from 6 to 7 pm. Tickets are $75 and will soon be available for purchase online at kravis.org.

SASIFF returns for its third season with screenings at the Rinker Playhouse at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts (Jan. 23-Jan. 30, 2025) and EVO Entertainment Delray (Jan. 31-Feb. 2, 2025). A full list of films scheduled for SASIFF will be announced soon. For more information about the Film Festival or to purchase tickets, please visit www.sasiff.org.

About The Donald M. Ephraim Sun & Stars International Film Festival:

The Donald M. Ephraim Sun & Stars International Film Festival©, presented by MorseLife, aims to bring highly anticipated, critically acclaimed, and thought-provoking films to Palm Beach County. As a world-class film festival, The Donald M. Ephraim Sun & Stars International represents a major contribution to the cultural life of Palm Beach County. SASIFF returns for a new season with screenings at the Rinker Playhouse at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts (Jan. 23-Jan. 30, 2025) and EVO Entertainment Delray (Jan. 31-Feb. 2, 2025). For more information, please visit www.sasiff.orgwww.facebook.com/DME.SASIFF and www.twitter.com/dmesasiff or www.instagram.com/dme_sasiff or contact info@sasiff.org or 561.220.6735.

About MorseLife:

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.orgwww.facebook.com/MorseLifewww.twitter.com/MorseLifeHealthwww.instagram.com/morselifehealth or www.linkedin.com/company/morselife-inc-/ or contact info@morselife.org.

The 2024 Wellington Holiday Parade

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Photos by Carol Porter

Wellington Bay Kicks Off the Holiday Season… 

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with Jingle and Mingle Tree Lighting Event

WELLINGTON, FL — On Thursday, December 5, 2024, luxury retirement community Wellington Bay hosted its Jingle and Mingle Tree Lighting in the main lobby, bringing residents, staff, and loved ones together to celebrate the holiday season. The event featured live festive music performed by local guitarist Ian Cooney, delicious holiday treats, and warm camaraderie among residents.

The beautifully decorated tree was a highlight of the evening, adorned with elegant red and gold ornaments and topped with a unique twist—a top hat in place of the traditional angel or star. Santa Claus made a special appearance to take pictures, delighting attendees and spreading holiday cheer.

“This is a time of joy and togetherness,” said Jay Mikosch, Campus Director of Wellington Bay. “Our Jingle and Mingle Tree Lighting is a wonderful tradition that brings us together to celebrate the spirit of the season. The laughter, good cheer, and shared moments remind us all of the importance of community and connection.”

The event was a shining example of the vibrant lifestyle that Wellington Bay supports for its residents. Whether enjoying independent living, assisted living, or memory care at the onsite Lisbet Health Center, Wellington Bay residents are provided with opportunities to embrace the joys of active aging and shared celebrations.

For more information about Wellington Bay Senior Living Community, please visit www.wellingtonbayfl.com.

About Wellington Bay

Wellington Bay is a luxury rental retirement community offering independent living, assisted living, respite care, and advanced memory care at the Lisbet Health Center, located onsite in Wellington, Florida. The community is dedicated to supporting active aging and vibrant living, offering something for everyone.

Named one of the “Best Places to Retire” by Money Magazine, Wellington boasts a thriving equestrian community, premier golf courses, and scenic neighborhoods.

Wellington Bay is owned and operated by Liberty Senior Living, LLC, a division of Liberty Healthcare Management specializing in senior living communities. To learn more about Liberty Senior Living and its communities, visit www.LibertySeniorLiving.com.

LinkedIn Workshop on Dec. 9th, 2024

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Video and Photos by Monica Kallas, SharpShooter Marketing Group

On Dec. 9th, Debbie Wemyss and Julie Bergeron presented a workshop on success strategies for LinkedIn at the Wellington Community Center.

2024 WinterFest

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Photos by Lois Spatz

WinterFest with Vanilla Ice was another smashing success this year, produced by the Wellington Chamber and the Village of Wellington! Held at the Wellington Amphitheater, WinterFest participants were asked to bring a new unwrapped toy for the 15th Annual Little Smiles Holiday Toy Drive. As always, Vanilla Ice invited kids up on stage with him and turned the whole event into a dance party.

The 47th Annual Carbonell Awards

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Photos by Carol Porter

The 47th annual Carbonell Awards, recognizing the best in South Florida’s theater and the arts, was held on Monday, November 11, at the Lauderhill Performing Arts Center in Broward County. During the 2023-2024 season, nearly 90 productions at thirty different theaters were evaluated by a diverse group of more than forty judges representing Broward, Miami Dade and Palm Beach County. The 47th annual Carbonell Awards also recognized recipients of the George Abbott Award for Outstanding Achievement in the Arts; The Vinnette Caroll Award; The Ruth Foreman Award; The Bill Hindman Award; The Howard Kleinberg Award and the Bill von Maurer Award. The Jack Zink Memorial Student Scholarship awards were also presented. For more information about this year’s honorees check out the Carbonell web page at www.carbonellawards.org.