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Anti-Karen’s – Catch Someone Doing Good

Heidi Hess
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Anti-Karen’s – Catch Someone Doing Good

By Heidi Hess

I was on my second chicken tender when I noticed the large group of high school cheerleaders. I was mid dip into my Cane’s sauce when they started hooting and hollering. Honestly, their behavior didn’t bother me. I was once a teenage girl and was known to be quite loud and obnoxious when out with the Drama Club. It comes with the age. They didn’t stay long but the trail of trash they left for someone to clean up sure did.

Did I mention that it was a nice day? The temperatures have been mild, blue skies and sunshine. Sitting outside enjoying the day, I dunked my chicken again and greedily shoved into my mouth just as a teenage boy came out and sat down. He took his Cane’s baseball cap off and proceeded to set up his food. He was clearly on his lunch break. The mess the girls’ had left was two tables down, but he stopped, kinda shook his head, and threw all their trash away. I watched this and asked if he was in fact on this lunch break. He was. His name is McKinley, and he works at Cane’s in Boynton Beach.

Now, as parents, you and I both know kids. We know that they tend to be messy creatures, but we try to teach them to clean up after themselves. This young man not only cleaned up his mess, but some other kids mess as well. Now, you are going to say “Well, he works there. It’s his job.” Might I remind you that he was in fact on his lunch break?

It was a small gesture but, as silly as it sounds, it filled me with hope. He was doing something good. Any other teenage employee would have eaten their lunch and THEN maybe cleaned up the mess, but he did it right away, without being asked. Now THERE is the person I want working for me. He’s working at a fast-food restaurant and took ownership of a problem and fixed it. We need more people like that.

I finished up my food, spoke to him and thanked him for going above and beyond. I then proceeded to pull an Anti-Karen, and this is what I’m challenging you and your kids with this holiday season: I asked to speak to the manager. Not to complain but to point out someone doing something good. Will he get a gift card or kudos? Yes. Knowing this made me smile. I hope it made him smile too.

The holidays are stressful – for everyone. What if you had the power to make just one person feel better? Would you do it? I think so. Pull an Anti-Karen and say a kind word, do a kind thing. You just don’t know where people are at, and this could make all the difference.

The Significance of the Solstice

Litzi Aguilar
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The Significance of the Solstice

By Litzi Ramirez Aguilar

The Winter Solstice is the beginning of an end. Too ominous? In Latin, solstice is made up of two words: sol– meaning “the sun” and sistere meaning “to make stand.” To put it in basic terms, the Winter Solstice is known for the shortest day and the darkest night of the year. It occurs on December 21st or 22nd in the Northern Hemisphere, and June 20th or 21st in the Southern Hemisphere, but this is called the Summer Solstice. Scientifically, it results from the Earth’s axial tilt being the furthest away from the Sun. Then, the Sun begins to gravitate toward the equator, leading to longer days and shorter nights for those in the Northern Hemisphere.

As for the celebrations of the Winter Solstice, many ancient societies were joined together by the idea of new beginnings. In ancient Rome, they celebrated the Winter Solstice with festivals like the festival of Saturnalia. This festival was dedicated to Saturn, the god of agriculture. It was a weeklong celebration where homes were decorated with wreaths and traditional togas were replaced by colorful clothes known as synthesis. The ancient Norse celebrated the winter solstice with Yule, a celebration involving feasting and drinking. And similar to New Years resolution, swearing oaths were also tradition. These were meant to be bound agreements, sacred oaths that were meant to be fulfilled. 

For modern times, various cultures still celebrate their versions of the Winter Solstice. In China, their festival is called Dongzhi, meaning “Winter’s Arrival.” It comes from the ancient principles of yin and yang. The celebration represents a balance of dark and light shifting and believing after Dongzhi, the light will prevail. During this time, families gather to enjoy traditional foods such as rice balls and dumplings, or hot pot and wontons. In Japan, their Winter Solstice is known as Tōji, with a similar belief of the dark taking over with the promise of light returning. People traditionally take yuzu baths to ward off illnesses. Pumpkin or kachocha is also meant to provide nutrients to strengthen one’s body.

In the Americas, indigenous peoples also celebrate with the Winter Solstice. One group called the Hopi celebrates Soyal, a ceremony where pahos, or prayer sticks, were made to bless homes, animals, and plants. It marks the beginning of the Katsina season and a new season for the year.

In India, Makar Sankranti is a Hindu festival celebrating the sun’s new cycle. This specific celebration falls on January 14th or 15th. It is known as the harvest festival with different names such as Pongal in Tamil Nadu and Magh Bihu in Assam. Common traditions of this celebration consist of kite flying; sacred baths where devotees take dips in rivers like the Ganges to cleanse themselves of sin; sharing sweet foods like Arisalu made from rice flour and sesame seeds; and some traditions involve burning old items on prior to welcome new energy and prosperity.

The solstice was extremely important to cultures entirely dependent on the seasons for survival. The solstice was celebrated as a time where people honored nature and expressed gratitude. Many people, even now in modern times, observe/celebrate it as a time to set goals for the coming year (like New Years Resolution) and embrace the prospect of new beginnings. So for this year, take a moment to connect with the world around you and remember to celebrate the new beginnings of the new year.

Stretch Into Wellness

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Stretch Into Wellness

with Dr. John Hinson and Dr. Jonathan Shaw of Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute: December 11 is National Stretching Day

By Gianna Picard

Observed annually on December 11, National Stretching Day highlights the importance of flexibility and mobility for overall musculoskeletal health. Stretching is one of the simplest and most effective ways to support joint function, circulation, and balance—key components of maintaining comfort and independence as we age. 

Though often overlooked, flexibility is essential for healthy movement. Regular, gentle stretching can help offset stiffness from daily activities such as prolonged sitting, driving, or repetitive motion. It also supports posture, reduces muscle tension, and promotes joint longevity.

Expert Insights from Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute Doctors, Dr. John Hinson and Dr. Jonathan Shaw

Sports medicine and orthopedic experts at the Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute emphasize that stretching, when performed safely, can be a valuable component of preventative musculoskeletal care. 

Dr. John Hinson, an orthopedic surgeon specializing in shoulder and elbow care, and Dr. Jonathan Shaw, who focuses on hip and knee conditions, both advocate for gradual, mindful stretching as part of a balanced wellness routine. 

“Gentle, consistent stretching can help support long-term joint comfort and function,” says Dr. Hinson. “It’s an accessible way to maintain mobility and reduce stiffness that develops from inactivity or repetitive tasks.” 

Upper Body Health: Shoulders and Elbows

The shoulder and elbow joints are critical to daily activities, from reaching and lifting to typing. Prolonged sitting or repetitive upper-body motions can lead to tightness and limited range of motion for some individuals. 

To promote flexibility and reduce discomfort, Dr. Hinson recommends simple daily movements such as:

Shoulder rolls to release tension and improve posture.

Cross-body arm stretches to maintain shoulder mobility.

Overhead triceps stretches to enhance upper-arm flexibility.

“Even a few minutes each day can help maintain healthy movement patterns,” Dr. Hinson explains. “Stretching helps keep the soft tissues around the joint supple, supporting smooth, pain-free motion.” 

Lover Body Mobility: Hips and Knees

Maintaining hip and knee flexibility is equally important, particularly for walking, balance, and posture. Sedentary habits can lead to tightness in the hips and legs, which may alter gait and increase strain on the joints. 

Recommended lower-body stretches include:

Seated figure-four stretches to open the hips and glutes.

Standing quadriceps stretches to relieve thigh tension.

Supported hamstring stretches to maintain mobility for walking and bending. 

“A few minutes of safe stretching can help improve flexibility and daily movement,” says Dr. Shaw. “It can enhance balance and help to prevent feelings of tightness that can develop from sitting for long periods.”

How to Stretch Safely at Any Age:

Stretching should always be approached with care and awareness of one’s individual capabilities. 

  • Begin with a brief warm-up, such as light walking.
  • Move slowly and avoid bouncing or forcing a position.
  • Hold each stretch for 15-30 seconds and breathe.
  • Discontinue immediately if pain occurs and seek medical help if it persists.
  • Prioritize consistency over intensity.

It’s also important to recognize that flexibility varies among individuals. Genetic factors, connective tissue characteristics, and muscle tone can all influence the natural range of motion. Understanding these variations can help each person stretch safely within their own comfort zone. 

Incorporate the Everyday Stretch Routine:

Incorporating stretching into daily routines can be simple and effective:

  • Morning: gentle stretches to prepare muscles for the day.
  • Midday: brief mobility breaks to counteract desk posture.
  • Evening: relaxing stretches to reduce tension and support recovery from a day’s work. 

Even a few minutes of mindful stretching can enhance comfort and movement quality. Participating in National Stretching Day offers a reminder to make flexibility an intentional part of overall wellness.

Overall, stretching aims to support the quality of life at every age. As Dr. Shaw summarizes, “Stretching is a simple, preventive measure that benefits everyone. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing stiffness, or simply aiming to stay active.” Dr. Shaw adds, “If you are recovering from an injury, it’s important to consult with your local specialist on how to stretch safely.” 

Flexibility is a key component of lifelong mobility, and it’s never too late to start!For more information about Dr. Hinson and Dr. Shaw at Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute, visit https://www.pboi.com/.

Internationally Acclaimed Artist Vladislav Yeliseyev Coming to Mounts Botanical Garden

Litzi Aguilar
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Internationally Acclaimed Artist Vladislav Yeliseyev Coming to Mounts Botanical Garden

Mounts Botanical Garden Offering Immersive Three-Day Watercolor Workshop with Internationally Acclaimed Artist Vladislav Yeliseyev January 6 – 8, 2026


(West Palm Beach, FL) – Mounts Botanical Garden is kicking off 2026 with its first-ever January Art Master Class Series. Headlining the month-long series is acclaimed artist Vladislav Yeliseyev leading a special three-day hands-on workshop – Watercolor with Focus & Freedom: Mastering the Yeliseyev Method – taking place January 6 – 8, 2026.

Mounts highly recommends registering by December 6, as space is limited and offered on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Renowned watercolor artist Vladislav Yeliseyev leads this dynamic three-day workshop designed to strengthen technical skills while unlocking creative expression. Using curated photographic references, participants will learn to simplify complex scenes, identify focal areas, and capture atmosphere through expressive light, color, and confident brushwork.

The Yeliseyev Method breaks watercolor into clear, approachable steps. Instruction includes:

  • Building strong compositions and focal points
  • Effective color mixing and value control
  • Bold, energetic brushwork
  • Finishing techniques that unify a painting
  • Step-by-step demonstrations and personalized feedback

This workshop offers an ideal blend of professional instruction and relaxed creativity – perfect for artists looking to refine technique or explore watercolor more deeply.

About Vladislav Yeliseyev

Trained at the Moscow School of Art and with a Master’s Degree in Architecture, Vladislav Yeliseyev has spent more than 30 years developing a distinguished career as a watercolorist, plein air painter, educator, and juror. He is a Signature Member of both the American Impressionist Society and the National Watercolor Society, and his work is widely featured in leading art publications across the U.S. and Europe. His highly anticipated book, The Watercolor Landscape, launches in February and is currently available for pre-order at https://geni.us/TheWatercolorLandscape.

FULL LINE-UP OF MOUNTS’ JANUARY ART MASTER CLASS SERIES

Watercolor with Focus & Freedom with Vladislav Yeliseyev

  • Three-Day Workshop: Tue., Jan. 6 – Thu., Jan. 8, 2026
  • 10:00 am – 5:00 pm each day
  • Tickets: $650 members; $680 nonmembers (includes Garden admission + daily boxed lunch)
  • Registration Deadline: Dec. 6, 2025; space is limited; tickets are nonrefundable.

Photography in the Garden with Master Photographer Jerry Ginsberg

  • Two-Day Workshop: Sun., Jan. 11 & Sun., Jan. 18, 2026
  • 9:30 am – 12:00 pm each day
  • Tickets: $150 members; $165 nonmembers (includes two-day workshop + Garden admission)
  • Space is limited; tickets are nonrefundable.

Intro to Gouache with Artist & Photographer Carl Stoveland

  • One-Day Workshop: Sat., Jan. 24, 2026
  • 10:00 am – 3:45 pm
  • Tickets: $135 members; $145 nonmembers (includes Garden admission + boxed lunch)
  • Space is limited; tickets are nonrefundable.

Plen Air Watercolor in the Garden with Carl Stoveland

  • One-Day Workship: Sat., Jan. 31, 2026
  • 10:00 am – 3:45 pm
  • Tickets: $135 for members; $145 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission + boxed lunch)
  • Space is limited; tickets are nonrefundable.

To purchase tickets to any of Mounts Botanical Garden’s January Arts Master Series programming, visit www.mounts.org. 

ABOUT MOUNTS BOTANICAL GARDEN OF PALM BEACH COUNTY

With a mission to nurture meaningful connections with nature through immersive experiences and educational offerings, Mounts Botanical Garden is Palm Beach County’s oldest and largest botanical garden. The 20-acre tropical oasis features 25 unique garden areas and more than 7,000 species of tropical and subtropical plants. Mounts operates under the Palm Beach County Cooperative Extension, in partnership with the University of Florida and the nonprofit Friends of the Mounts Botanical Garden.

Mounts Botanical Garden is located at 531 North Military Trail, West Palm Beach, between Southern Boulevard and Belvedere Road.

The Garden is open Tuesday through Sunday, 9 am – 4 pm (last entry at 3 pm); closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.

Tickets: $20 adults | $18 seniors, college students & military with ID | $13 ages 6–17 | Free for children under 6, Mounts Members & reciprocal program members.

Visit www.mounts.org.

December Fun at Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens

Litzi Aguilar
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December Fun at Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens

DECEMBER HAPPENINGS: Tea Day Celebration, Art of Japanese Gift Presentation, and “Magic Tea Kettle”Kamishibai Storytelling at Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens

December workshops, classes, and demonstrations:

Tuesdays, December 2, 9, 16 

Ikebana Flower Arrangement – Ikenobo School
Time: Beginners – 11am – 1pm  

           Intermediate – 1:15pm – 3:15pm* 

Cost: $67.50 (Morikami Members $60)
*Intermediate courses are for students with prior experience or have taken at least three sessions of Ikebana classes. 

Flower arranging, ikebana, is a traditional Japanese art form spanning centuries. Ikebana has various different schools of study, each with unique philosophies and aesthetics. Dating back to the 15th century, the Ikenobo School is the oldest and most traditional. Students in this course learn the basic principles and style of Ikenobo, creating fresh flower arrangements each week to take home and enjoy.

Wednesdays, December 3, 10, 17 

Ikebana Flower Arrangement – Sogetsu School

Time: Beginners – 10:30am –12:30pm  

           Intermediate – 1:30pm – 3:30pm* 

Cost: $67.50 (Morikami Members $60)
Flower arranging, ikebana, is a traditional Japanese art form spanning centuries. Ikebana has various different schools of study, each with unique philosophies and aesthetics. The Sogetsu School is a contemporary school which focuses on the creativity and individuality of ikebana. The idea is that ikebana can be done by anyone, anywhere, with almost anything. Students will learn the basics of Sogetsu and create pieces each week to take home and enjoy. *Intermediate courses are for students with prior experience.

Saturday, December 6 

The Art of Kokedama
Time: 10am – 12:30pm or 2pm – 4:30pm 

Cost: $65
Kokedama is the Japanese art of growing plants in a moss-covered ball of soil. It is wrapped with string and contains an ornamental plant growing inside. These beautiful and decorative plants, bring an organic and natural touch to planting orchids, succulents, and other ornamental plants. Learn the plant’s mechanics then create three kokedama of your very own.

Sundays, December 7, 21  

Sado: Tea Ceremony
Time: Beginners – 10:15am – 12:15pm  

            Intermediate – 1pm – 3pm 

Cost: $60 (Morikami Members $55)

Expand upon your knowledge of Japanese tea ceremony in this hands-on class. Perform a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, with its ever-evolving seasonal subtleties, in the authentic Seishin-an Tea House under the guidance of instructor Yoshiko Hardick. The tea ceremony changes from month to month and from season to season. Intermediate course requires approval by the instructor before registering.

Thursdays, December 11, 18 

Sado: Tea Ceremony
Time: Beginners – 10:15am – 12:15pm  

            Intermediate – 1pm – 3pm 

Cost: $60 (Morikami Members $55)

Expand upon your knowledge of Japanese tea ceremony in this hands-on class. Perform a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, with its ever-evolving seasonal subtleties, in the authentic Seishin-an Tea House under the guidance of instructor Yoshiko Hardick. The tea ceremony changes from month to month and from season to season.

Saturday, December 13 
Tea Day 

Time: 10am – 5pm 

Cost: FREE (with paid museum admission) 

Tea Day programming: 

Tea Vendors 
10am – 4:30pm

Lobby 
Shop and learn about tea culture! Learn about the variety of flavors and types of tea at Morikami.
 

Tea Lecture with Rona Tison
12pm

Morikami Theater

Free      

Go on a journey to learn about tea culture in Japan with Rona Tison, the Tea Ambassador & Executive Advisor to ITO EN (North America) INC. 

Tea Ceremony Demonstration
2pm

Morikami Theater 

$5 with paid museum admission 

Observe Japanese sado, an ever-changing demonstration rich in seasonal subtleties. Your involvement in the true spirit of sado — harmony (wa), reverence (kei), purity (sei), tranquility (jaku) — along with a sip of green tea and a sweet will help bring a calm perspective to one’s busy life.

Family Fun: v
12pm, 1pm, 2pm

Kamiya Room 

Kamishibai is “paper-theater” and is said to have started in Japan in the early 1900s but is a part of a long tradition of picture storytelling. Today’s story is a Japanese folktale about a magical tanuki (raccoon dog), his new friend and the making of their friendship. Join us for story time on the hour of 12pm, 1pm, and 2pm. A craft activity will follow each story reading. 

Saturday, December 13 
Lecture: What’s All The Fuss: The Global Enthusiasm for Japanese Green Tea & Matcha  

Time: 12pm 

Cost: FREE (with paid museum admission) 

Matcha, sencha, gyokuro, hojicha — how many kinds of Japanese green tea do you know? Rona Tison, tea ambassador & executive advisor of ITO EN – North America, will take guests through the fundamentals of this time honored beverage. Learn how to best brew and drink the teas, health benefits, and the new trends in the world of tea. 

A tea industry connoisseur with a refined approach to the U.S. Japanese culture, Rona Tison is the Tea Ambassador & Executive Advisor to ITO EN (North America) INC., Japan’s premiere green tea brand and global leaders of premium and sustainably grown green tea, matcha and healthy beverages. Pioneering the groundbreaking innovation of the first unsweetened bottled green tea, Oi Ocha today has earned international acclaim and is enjoyed in 40 countries worldwide. The company has received numerous awards to include recognition as one of “50 Companies Changing the World” by FORTUNE for its commitment to sustainability and the revitalization of tea farms through its Tea Region Development Project, and its proprietary tea leaf recycling program. Tison also serves on the Board of the Tea Association of the USA, the Advisory Board of the Global Tea Initiative at University of California, Davis and the U.S.-Japan Council and member of the Tea & Herbal Association of Canada.  She has been a speaker at the World Tea Expo, the United Nations, Shizuoka World Tea Festival, James Beard House, and Smithsonian Lecture Series. She received the 2017 John Harney Lifetime Achievement Award for her educational contributions to the tea industry, the first woman to ever receive this award.  

Saturday, December 13 
Sado: The Way of Tea
Time: 2pm 
Cost: $5 with paid museum admission.  

Observe Japanese sadō, an ever-changing demonstration rich in seasonal subtleties. Your involvement in the true spirit of sadō — harmony (wa), reverence (kei), purity (sei), tranquility (jaku) — along with a sip of matcha green tea and a sweet will help you bring a calm perspective into your busy life.  

Saturday, December 13 

The Art of Japanese Gift Presentation
Time: 10am – 12pm or 1:30pm – 3:30pm 

Cost: $35

Learn the customs and art of Japanese gift presentation in this hands-on workshop. Combining tradition with contemporary aesthetics, participants are introduced to the beauty of Japanese packaging and design, oftentimes incorporating natural and unconventional materials.  Learn to wrap with washi (Japanese traditional handmade paper), create uniquely designed boxes, and other techniques to give your gift an Asian-inspired elegance. Workshop tools and materials will be provided for the participants to use.

Thursday, December 18  
Karesansui: Raking Demonstration 
Time: 10:30am 
Cost: FREE with paid museum admission.

Karesansui, or dry landscape garden, is founded on Zen ideology using carefully composed rock arrangements and gravel or sand.  A karesansui is carefully raked to represent characteristics of water such as currents and waves while boulder arrangements may be interpreted as islands. Learn about the museum’s Late Rock Garden and observe how  raking can be a practice in mindfulness and meditation. Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens is located at 4000 Morikami Park Road, Delray Beach. For more information, call (561) 495-0233 or visit morikami.org.

Cultural Council for Palm Beach County Opens Applications for Artist Innovation Fellowship Program

Litzi Aguilar
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Cultural Council for Palm Beach County Opens Applications for Artist Innovation Fellowship Program

November 25, 2025 (LAKE WORTH BEACH, Fla.) — The Cultural Council for Palm Beach County is now accepting applications for the fourth cycle of its Artist Innovation Fellowship—inviting Palm Beach County creative professionals in any discipline to submit their ideas for creative growth and exploration for consideration.

The Artist Innovation Fellowship is distinct among professional development opportunities. It focuses on personal creative growth and the belief that an entire community will benefit through investments in creative individuals. The Fellowship program not only supports the careers of Palm Beach County artists across all disciplines but also uniquely promotes them as cultural ambassadors, amplifying the county’s profile locally, nationally, and internationally.

Each Fellow will receive $10,000 to pursue innovation in existing avenues of creative expression or through new ideas and projects in 2026, without the constraints of specific project outcomes. Funds can be used for supplies, research, travel, or other experiences that support the creative process. In this fourth round, the program will emphasize cultural ambassadorship—educating each Fellow about the important role artists play as representatives of their own disciplines and within Palm Beach County’s dynamic cultural sector.

“A vibrant cultural sector is essential to our community’s economic health and overall well-being, and professional artists are a core driver of these outcomes,” said Dave Lawrence, Cultural Council president & CEO. “The Fellowship is open to artists across disciplines. Actors, dancers, visual artists, musicians, poets, and other creative professionals are highly encouraged to apply. We cannot wait to see what the 2026 Fellows create as they embark on new projects or continue working on something they’re passionate about.”

The Cultural Council will showcase the cohort’s work in a customized, special edition catalog next year to commemorate the Fellowship and showcase each artist’s creative process and experiences gained through the Fellowship. Each Fellow will also have an opportunity to become a mentor to a recipient of the Council’s Emerging Artist Prize, and will be recognized and celebrated in the Council’s exhibitions and special events throughout the year. 

Since the Artist Innovation Fellowship program’s inception in 2020, three rounds of grants have been awarded to 21 Fellows. To date, the Cultural Council has invested $257,500 into the Artist Innovation Fellowship program.

There are 10 Fellowships available for the 2026 cohort, and applications are due by December 12, 2025. A panel of regional creative professionals representing various disciplines will review all applications and identify the 2026 Fellows.

The Council will host a free workshop and panel discussion featuring former Artist Innovation Fellows on Tuesday, December 2 at 6 p.m. at Mounts Botanical Garden in West Palm Beach. The workshop will include important information about the program, online grant system, grant-writing tips, and how to submit impactful supporting materials. Past Fellows will also be in attendance to provide insights about the program. Creative professionals can RSVP by emailing dcrank@palmbeachculture.com.

To learn more or to apply for the Fellowship, visit palmbeachculture.com/artist-grants.

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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 year-round exhibitions and performances featuring artists who live or work in Palm Beach County. The Cultural Council also provides services to cultural organizations and creative professionals, administers public and private grant programs, advocates for cultural funding, and promotes cultural tourism—including complimentary resources in its Jean S. and Frederic A. Sharf Visitor Information Center. For more information about the Council’s mission to nurture, promote, and support a healthy, diverse, and inclusive cultural sector, visit palmbeachculture.com.

Boys Town Experts Help Families Navigate the Thanksgiving Table with Grace and Gratitude

Litzi Aguilar
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Boys Town Experts Help Families Navigate the Thanksgiving Table with Grace and Gratitude

As families gather for the holidays, Boys Town reminds us that connection—not perfection—is what matters most.

Palm Beach County & Broward County, FL (Nov. 23, 2025) — For many families, Thanksgiving is a time to reconnect, share a meal, and celebrate gratitude. But it can also bring together a mix of personalities, opinions, and emotions that sometimes make the holiday table feel more tense than thankful.

Boys Town behavioral experts say that when families approach the day with grace and gratitude—rather than expectations of perfection—they can turn potential conflict into connection.

“We all come to the table with different experiences, beliefs, and feelings,” said Dr. Steve Arcidiacano, Director of the Outpatient Behavioral Health Clinic at Boys Town South Florida. “The key is to remember that Thanksgiving isn’t about winning arguments or revisiting old disagreements. It’s about creating space for everyone to feel seen, heard, and appreciated.”

Experts recommend focusing on shared values rather than differences, setting healthy boundaries around sensitive topics, and modeling respectful conversation for children. Even small gestures like offering a genuine compliment, asking about someone’s year, or choosing to listen rather than react, can help create a more peaceful and meaningful holiday.

For some youth, including those in foster care or residential programs, “family” may look different during the holidays. Boys Town encourages communities to think inclusively like inviting neighbors, volunteers, or alumni who may not have family nearby to join in their celebrations.

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.

So You’re Starting a Business in Your Town.

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So You’re Starting a Business in Your Town.

Here’s What I’d Say If We Were Sitting on My Porch.

By Cindy Aldridge

Let me guess—you’ve got the itch. You’re tired of clocking in for people who don’t get it.
 You’ve got an idea that won’t shut up. And now, you’re staring down the wild mess of starting a business where you actually live. Good, this means you’re close. Let me talk to you like a neighbor, not a checklist.

Forget perfect. Get specific.

You don’t need a brand yet. You need a reason. Mine was stupid simple: I was sick of watching people pay too much for stuff they didn’t need because no one local had their back. Your version might be different. But before you file anything or buy a domain, get clear on this: Who are you helping? What problem do they drag around with them all day? And how will you make that problem feel lighter? I spent two afternoons researching your target market using phrases I’d never Google myself. That’s how I found the cracks—where people were frustrated but nobody was listening. Find that crack. Slide your business into it.

Digital stuff piles up faster than laundry.

Nobody warns you about the document chaos. One week in and you’re swimming in contracts, quotes, and weird file types from clients who still use Excel ‘97. I found myself converting the same file three times just to send it properly. Eventually, I bookmarked a good resource to check. Saved me. Nothing fancy. Just worked. I could get a clean PDF and move on with my day. Tiny wins. Stack enough of them and suddenly your week doesn’t suck.

You can’t fake being part of the community.

I thought posting flyers was enough. I was wrong. What worked? Showing up. Not with a pitch—just with a face. Helping at the food drive. Asking other owners how their week was. Buying a sandwich from the kid who opened a cart on Main Street and saying “yeah, I own something too.” You don’t need to be loud. Just visible. And real. There’s some magic in leveraging community‑led growth strategies that don’t feel like “marketing.” People remember how you made them feel long before they remember your logo.

Don’t register your business while tired. Ask me how I know.

One night I sat down to file all the paperwork after a long day. Four hours later, I had seven open tabs, zero confirmations, and a headache that didn’t quit. Eventually, I found a service that broke it all down. State by state. No jargon, no weird questions, just something that will help you launch your new venture confidently without throwing away your laptop. Best money I spent that month!

Legal stuff isn’t sexy, but stress isn’t either.

I put this off. Don’t. Getting your structure right—LLC, sole prop, whatever—isn’t about being official. It’s about avoiding panic later. I was three months in when a vendor asked for my EIN. I lied and said I’d “just sent it.” Spent the next six hours googling things with one hand and sweating with the other. Spare yourself. Take a beat. You don’t have to be a lawyer. Just read slowly, and when you’re deciding the right business structure, think about protection, not perfection.

Your “business plan” can live on a napkin.

Don’t buy a planner. Don’t open Excel. Write this instead: What am I selling? Who cares? How do I find them? How much do I need to make this month to not feel like a fraud? That’s your plan. I scribbled mine in a beat-up notebook between dinner and dishes. Later, I used this site for creating a strategic roadmap for your business when I needed to make it look real for a bank. But don’t get lost in formats. Start with truth. The neat version can come later.

Grow on purpose. Not because someone said “you’re killing it.”

Here’s what no one tells you: success is terrifying. When people start saying yes, when referrals start coming in, when a stranger mentions your name—that’s when things get risky. Because growth without a grip will gut you. Set boundaries. Write them down. What you will say yes to. What you won’t touch. Who drains you. Who fills your tank. And if you’re thinking long-term (which you should), start implementing effective small business growth strategies before you hit a wall. Your future self is already tired. Help them out.

If you’re still here, I’ll say this:

Don’t rush. You’re not behind. You’re not late. You’re not too small. You’re early. And early is powerful. Build this thing like a house you’re going to live in, not a stage you’re performing on. Invite the right people in. Fix the leaks. Paint the damn walls. And every now and then, sit on your porch, take a breath, and remember: you did this. No permission needed.

Discover the vibrant stories and community events that make Wellington unique by visiting Around Wellington today!

The 48th Annual Carbonell Awards

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The 48th Annual Carbonell Awards

Photos by Carol Porter

The 48th Annual Carbonell Awards, recognizing the best in theater in South Florida, was held on Monday, November 17, in the University Theatre at Florida Atlantic University at FAU. Up to 500 actors, musicians, performers, writers, directors, back-stage technicians, producers, reviewers, designers, specialty artists, and diehard theater fans attended South Florida’s version of Broadway’s Tony Awards®, the first one to be held in Palm Beach County since 1997. The ceremony is usually held in Broward County. Sponsors of the 48th annual Carbonell Awards included the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts; Aventura Arts & Cultural Center; BroadwayWorld; Broward Center for the Performing Arts; Broward Cultural Division; Carbonell Sculptures Ltd.; Cultural Council for Palm Beach County; Donald M. Ephraim Sun & Stars International Film Festival presented by MorseLife Health System; FPL; Kravis Center for the Performing Arts; Lesser, Landy, Smith & Siegel, PLLC; Miami-Dade County Auditorium, The Dennis C. Moss Center (formerly The South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center), OutClique Magazine, South Florida Cultural Consortium; South Florida Theatre League, Mark Traverso & Conor Walton; Donald R. Walters, P.A.; and The Wick Theatre & Costume Museum. For more information, please visit www.carbonellawards.org.

Over 300 People Attended Pace Center for Girls Palm Beach’s “Believing in Girls Empowerment Luncheon”

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Over 300 People Attended Pace Center for Girls Palm Beach’s “Believing in Girls Empowerment Luncheon”

Presented by The Chase Family’s Palm Harbor Marina, The Palm Beaches, Florida

The community gathered to celebrate girls and young women in Palm Beach County, tomorrow’s leaders and changemakers. 

Sherry Thompson, Bonnie Eggen, Keely Gideon-Taylor, Dr. Kandace Kichler, Sophia Perialas, Rhonda Rosen Virgin. By Kelly O’brien, Coastal Click Photography.

West Palm Beach, FL – Over 300 people attended Pace Center for Girls Palm Beach’s “Believing in Girls Empowerment Luncheon,” presented by The Chase Family’s Palm Harbor Marina, The Palm Beaches, Florida, at Kravis Center for the Performing Arts–Cohen Pavilion, located at 701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach, on Thursday, November 13. Themed as “Enchanted Forest,” Nikita Ramos of WPBF 25 was the emcee of the uplifting event, which featured powerful testimonies from Pace girls whose lives have been positively impacted by the programs the second-chance school offers them. Pace alumni, Lyndora Frazier, concluded the event by sharing her story and empowering girls to “trust the process” of growth.

Pace believes that ‘Every Girl Deserves’ a future filled with opportunities, respect, and agency to pursue her dreams. The event served as a reminder of the progress achieved by the community, while also urging us to envision the next phase of this critical mission. The event could not have been made possible without the support of sponsors, community partners, volunteers, and supporters. 

“We are deeply grateful to everyone who joined us in celebrating our girls and their remarkable resilience,” said Mindy Hanken, Executive Director of Pace Palm Beach. “Seeing our community come together to empower our girls and invest in their futures is truly inspiring. Their support, along with that of our sponsors and attendees, makes it possible for us to create meaningful experiences that help our girls continue to grow into the strong, confident, and capable young women we know they are.” 

The girls and young women Pace supports receive academic instruction and work closely with counselors and therapists trained in girl-centered and trauma-based therapy. They also receive life coaching to learn basic life skills, such as personal hygiene, grocery shopping, and how to secure their first job. These resources are made available to girls at no cost. 

At the event’s conclusion, Pace Palm Beach presented two awards to organizations that significantly support its mission to build brighter futures for girls in the community. The Community Cares Award was presented to Dress for Success Palm Beaches in recognition of its partnership with Pace to ensure girls have access to clothing and accessories that help them feel confident and prepared for career-building activities. The Spirit of Philanthropy Award was presented to Cleveland Clinic Florida for its outstanding contributions to Pace Palm Beach, including the Creative Station and Posh Shop, which are available to girls at its Palm Springs campus. 

The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts is a premier cultural venue in South Florida, consistently recognized for its excellence, having received accolades from Palm Beach Illustrated’s “Best of the Palm Beaches,” South Florida Parenting Magazine, and the TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award. Pace Palm Beach’s “Believing in Girls Empowerment Luncheon” was put together by program underwriters, Girls Glam Artist, and Sarah Sems with Sems Makeup Artistry, as well as Armored Consulting Group, for the enchanted forest-themed decor. 

The event co-chairs were Keely Gideon-Taylor and Ana Rodriguez. The “Believing in Girls Empowerment Luncheon” committee included: Keely Gideon-Taylor, Ana Rodriguez, Bonnie Eggen, Cora Leigh Hutchinson, Dr. Kandace Kichler, Sophia Perialas, Sherry Thompson, and Rhonda Rosen Virgin. Sponsors included: The Chase Family’s Palm Harbor Marina, The Palm Beaches, FL, Regions Bank, JSR Design Group, Coach Roux, LLC, Comcast, Florida Power & Light, HCA Florida Healthcare, Kandace Kichler, Keely Gideon-Taylor, Couch Roux, LLC, Dress for Success Palm Beaches, Generation Church, Slimming Surgeon, Inc., Third Federal Bank, Wild Orchid Candle Company, LaBovick Law Group, Reisen Construction, The Palm Beach Post Local IQ, The Nancy Baer Foundation for Children, Nextera Energy Resources, Searcy Denney Scarola Barnhart & Shipley, and Smith, Ball, Daez Injury Lawyers. 

To learn more about Pace Center for Girls Palm Beach or how to get involved, visit https://www.pacecenter.org/palm-beach or contact Chrissy Rinehart, Development Manager at christina.rinehart@pacecenter.org. 

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About Pace Center for Girls 

Pace provides free year-round middle and high school academics, case management, counseling, and life skills development in a safe and supportive environment that recognizes and deals with past trauma and builds upon girls’ individual strengths. Dedicated to meeting the social, emotional, and educational needs of girls, Pace has a successful and proven program model that has changed the life trajectory of more than 40,000 girls and is recognized as one of the nation’s leading advocates for girls in need. For more information on Pace Center for Girls, visit www.pacecenter.org.

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