In a large pot, I add a couple of cans of coconut milk. You can also use regular coconut milk. I don’t measure, I just estimate how much I want.
Cut up into cubes sweet potato and throw them into the coconut on high heat to a boil followed by any hard vegetables. I usually use cauiflower as one of the base ingredients.
Add curry sauce. I like Trader Joe’s, which has red and yellow. Love them both. Add tumeric, garlic, ginger, about a tablespoon of olive oil, salt and pepper, fennel seeds, (cayenne pepper, chili pepper, and paprika if you like it spicy).
After a couples of minutes, reduce heat to simmer, add chickpeas, tofu and bell peppers. Cook for about 15 minutes checking sweet potato for tenderness so its cooked but not too mushy.
Last, add a bag of kale, mix and let sit while making the rice. It typically leaves leftovers and is so good the day after as the spices mix in.
I serve it with naan bread, which pairs really well.
Free Closing Reception & Silent Auction is Wednesday, September 4, 6 to 8 pm
Commelinaceae; Tradescantia virginiana; Spiderwort. Common wildflower and cultivated flower over much of eastern NA. Herbaceous perennial grows in half shade or sun. Grows throughout Florida.
(West Palm Beach, FL – August 26, 2024) Fatima NeJame, president and chief executive officer of the world-renowned Palm Beach Photographic Centre (PBPC), today announced the closing reception and silent auction for the museum’s current exhibition:
Renewal: Going Native, revisited
60+ Stunning Images from 18 Talented Photographers
A follow-up to its popular 2018 exhibition, the Photo Centre’s new artistic offering presents more than five dozen amazing prints, many of which are available for purchase by the highest bidder. All the proceeds from this silent auction on September 4will go to benefit the conservation efforts of the Palm Beach County Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society.
“Photographs in the exhibition range from exquisite close-ups of flowers and butterflies to mysterious landscapes, and from stunning, rare orchids to surprisingly beautiful, common tillandsias,” says NeJame, who curated the exhibit along with Susan Lerner from the local Native Plant Society. “Our goal is for the viewer to experience the joy and aliveness of the native landscape.”
The photographers who are focused on the beauty of Florida’s native landscape include Kevin Barry, Donna Bollenbach, Richard Brownscombe, Christina Evans, George Gann, Roger Hammer, Kirsten Hines, Craig Huegel, Teri Jabour, Mary Keim, Susan Kolterman, Susan Lerner, Don Marchetto, Chuck McCartney, Rufino Osorio, Rebecca Sabac, Loret Setters and Peg Urban.
The free closing reception and silent auction for Renewal:Going Native, revisited will be held on Wednesday, September 4, from 6 to 8 pm.
Auction bids are now being accepted through September 4th at 7:00pm. People may bid in person at the Palm Beach Photographic Centre or place their bids via email at info@workshop.org.
The images being bidding upon are the actual exhibit prints being auctioned as is. The Person with the winning bid who attends the closing reception on September 4 will be allowed to take their image home with them after the reception. Anyone who has the winning bid that is not in attendance at the closing reception will be notified and may pick up their image during normal business hours 10 am to 5 pm the following week.
About thePalm Beach County Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society
Established in 1981, the Palm Beach County Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society is a not-for-profit organization. Monthly meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month at 7 pm in the auditorium at Mounts Botanical Garden in West Palm Beach. Individual membership is $35 yearly. For more information about the Palm Beach County Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society, please visit http://palmbeach.fnpschapters.org and www.facebook.com/PBCC.FNPS.
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 greatly appreciated at www.workshop.org/contrib.
In the spirit of giving and to ensure that no Village resident goes without a hot meal this Thanksgiving, Wellington invites residents to participate in the annual Holiday Food Drive. The Village of Wellington is partnering with local Community Partners and their various organizations to receive donated food items for this year’s Annual Food Drive.
Donations will be accepted Tuesday, September 3rd through Friday, November 15th. We kindly ask residents to contribute non-perishable food items and to please ensure the items have not exceeded their expiration dates
Convenient drop-off locations for donations will be found at several Village facilities:
Lakeside Market, Thursday nights at the Wellington Amphitheater, 12100 Forest Hill Boulevard
Tennis Center, 3100 Lyons Road
Village Hall, 12300 Forest Hill Boulevard
Village Park, 11700 Pierson Road
Wellington Community Center, 12150 Forest Hill Boulevard
Your participation is vital in making this year’s Annual Food Drive a success. Let’s unite as a community and make a difference in the lives of our neighbors. Together, we can spread warmth and joy during this special time of the year.
As another way to stay informed on the latest news and updates from the Village, residents are invited to sign up for Wellington information and updates at www.wellingtonfl.gov/Newsletter.
An Interview with Owners Robyn Adams and Vincent Perrotti
By Krista Martinelli
Vinnie Perrotti and Robyn Adams, Owners of the SaltSuite
This month I had the pleasure of talking with and breathing a little easier with Robyn Adams and Vincent Perrotti of The SaltSuite in Western Lake Worth / Wellington. Why might you ask did I breathe easier? Because it turns out that salt is exceptionally good for helping with allergies, coughing, asthma and many other types of breathing issues. I also signed up for their wonderful 45-minute session and got the full SaltSuite experience, enjoying the peace of the comfortable reclining chairs inside the salt cave. Let’s get to the interview.
AW: Where did this idea come from? That it’s beneficial to breathe in salt?
SS: The amazing benefits of salt therapy came from a health official in Poland in the 1800’s, who realized that salt mine workers rarely suffered from colds, respiratory ailments or lung diseases. He discovered that the salt created a negative ion atmosphere with anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory properties, helping to boost the immune system.
Salt therapy, also known as halotherapy, is very big in Europe and is catching on in the United States. The anti-bacterial, anti-microbial, anti-viral and anti-inflammatory properties of pure salt prove to have positive results with the lungs, sinuses by helping to open the airways and thinning out mucus making it easier expel.
AW: What are some of the most memorable testimonials you have heard from your clients?
SS (Robyn): I was a customer. I experienced a lot of battles with cancer and was immune compromised. I originally came to the SaltSuite through Groupon. Very soon, my SaltSuite visits got me off prescription drugs and antibiotics. The visits energized me. I was so pleased with the results; I came out of retirement to do this. We opened in March of 2019, right before Covid.
One of our customers, Richard, has been coming regularly since we opened to alleviate his chronic bronchitis. He comes every day except Sundays. He’s in his 80’s and controls the symptoms of his chronic bronchitis, thanks to salt therapy. Over the past few years, he’s come over 2,200 times. You have to treat it like a regular habit. It’s like going to the gym. You need to work it into your regular routine, and he does.
Another customer, MaryAnn, born with asthma, says the SaltSuite is “the only thing that keeps her going.
SS (Vincent) had asthma and hasn’t needed medication in over 5 years.
And yet another customer, Kaylie, had eczema in high school, which was a very difficult thing. After her visits to the SaltSuite, her skin completely changed…for the better. Later in her high school years, she worked for us. Now she’s a nurse practitioner. She’s also an equestrian. She just recently graduated. As with all of our clients with the best results, you need to follow up consistently. Again, it’s like going to the gym.
***
While I was interviewing Robyn and Vinnie, their last customer of the evening was just emerging from her salt therapy session. I asked her about her results. Kim explained that she was born with asthma and sinus issues. She comes to the SaltSuite three times per week. She’s been able to stop using her daily asthma inhaler as well as her regular PM prescription medication. She told us that she’s never, knock on wood, had Covid. She said that the salt therapy has lowered her “illness ratio” and that she rarely gets sick. She also uses the Pulsed Electromagnetic Field therapy (PEMF) mat at the Salt Suite. Kim remembers that her cardiologist recommended the SaltSuite, saying, “it’s important to heal your body from the inside out.” Kim has been coming to the SaltSuite for 8 years. I was very impressed with the fact that this random customer had such a great testimonial and was left with the feeling that this is just the tip of the iceberg.
AW: Describe a typical salt therapy session.
Inside the Salt Cave
SS: A couple of things to know prior to your visit: you must wear socks and must avoid perfumes or putting on any scent. So, your 45-minute session begins by going into the salt cave, wearing comfortable clothing and your socks. You relax in a very comfortable recliner and are provided with an iPod. This begins with breath work or meditations, to help you get the salt deep into the tissues and ends with relaxing spa music. The salt cave is covered with salt from floor to ceiling. Meanwhile, a machine grinds up pharmaceutical grade salt into nano-particles and blows them into the atmosphere of the room. While there are many healing properties, some people do it just for relaxation.
AW: Do you offer any specials?
SS: Yes, we have a back to school special until Sept. 15th for half-off the 1st month of any membership. (See the below flyer). Also, all first-time customers are always half off the normal per-session price of $45, allowing you to try a 45-minute salt session for only $22.50.
AW: What are some other sessions that you offer?
Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy mat
SS: We offer a Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy mat, which helps alleviate chronic pain. The technology was originally invented by NASA. It was adopted commercially and helps with circulation, prevents bone loss, helps post-surgery, helps with arthritis and is especially helpful for those with chronic pain. We have an Infrared / red-light sauna, which is good for lowering stress, helps with muscle repair, weight loss, anti-aging, cardio and many other things. We also have a children’s salt room, which has toys and a TV inside. We can accommodate two families at a time. Many families enjoy having play dates inside. The children love the salt environment. We also have a 10-Minute Booth, where you get the same effects as the 45-minute session. This is great for people who have limited time.
Inside the Children’s Salt Room
AW: What’s the most challenging aspect of this business?
SS: It’s the education piece of it. It’s getting people to understand the process and getting them to commit to a regular schedule of salt therapy. To help with the financial part of it, we offer unlimited memberships with up to two times per day or one time per week. There are packages allowing you to purchase blocks to sessions at a reduced per session price as well.
AW: What are the rewards?
SS: It’s the stories we hear from our clients. Lives have been changed. That’s so rewarding.
AW: What’s your location? What are your hours? Do you accept drop-ins too?
The SaltSuite is located at corner of State Road 7 (Rt 441) and Lantana Road in front of the Super Target. Address is: 5500 S. State Road 7, Suite 110, Lake Worth, FL 33449.
(561) 440-4256
Hours:
First Session – Last Session
Monday:
9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Tuesday & Thursday:
9:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Wednesday & Friday:
8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Saturday & Sunday:
9:30 AM – 3:30 PM
Sessions start every hour on the half hour. You can drop in, but it’s best to call ahead of time to schedule your session
AW: What are some of the other benefits that salt therapy offers? Any products you offer too?
SS: It’s important to stress that salt therapy is a natural alternative type of therapy and has so many benefits respiratory-wise. It is also great for children and assists with ear infections, eczema, dermatitis, and other ailments. We should also mention that we have singers and athletes who come in for salt therapy sessions, which helps with their endurance. They are even using salt therapy with polo ponies these days.
For sale: we have all natural skin products, Himalayan salt lamps, Himalayan table salt grinders, elderberry syrup sweetened with local honey as well as other related products. Just ask!
AW: Tell us about your family.
SS: We have two children. Our older daughter lives in Rhode Island. Our younger son lives in Leesburg, Florida. We also have a Yorkie Poo.
Savings of up to 50% off exclusively for Brightline email subscribers
MIAMI (Aug. 26, 2024) – Brightline is kicking off a month-long celebration of its first year connecting riders between South Florida and Orlando with a special week of savings! From Sept. 3 through Sept. 7, Brightline will be offering email subscribers five days of unbeatable deals in honor of this milestone. Each day, a new deal will be revealed, giving travelers the chance to save big on rides to and from Orlando.
“This has been a transformative year for Brightline, and we’re just getting started,” said Barbara Drahl, SVP of marketing and commercial strategy at Brightline. “As we celebrate our first year of service to Orlando, we’re offering our guests more than just great deals. We’ll be unveiling major enhancements that will redefine the Brightline experience and further solidify our commitment to revolutionizing rail travel.”
Brightline’s One-Year to Orlando Celebration Sale kicks off at 12:01 a.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 3, and runs through 11:59 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 7. Deals are valid for travel through Nov. 16, 2024, with booking now and travel later. Deals will include deep discounts and special promotions for travel between Orlando and South Florida, as well as for rides within South Florida, from West Palm Beach to Miami.
Don’t miss out on this chance to celebrate one year of Orlando rides with Brightline! Sign up today at www.gobrightline.com/deals-sign-up and get ready to unwrap the best travel deals in Florida.
Brightline seamlessly connects travelers to top destinations and major events between Central and South Florida. The company serves Miami, Aventura, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, West Palm Beach, and Orlando with future stops in Stuart and Cocoa. Brightline is recognized as one of TIME100’s Most Influential Companies of 2024. It is also recognized by Inc. 5000 Regionals as one of the fastest-growing private companies in the Southeast for 2023 and is one of the World’s 50 Most Innovative by Fast Company in 2024. Brightline offers a guest-first experience designed to reinvent train travel and take cars off the road. The company plans to bring its award-winning service to additional city pairs and congested corridors across the country that are too close to fly and too long to drive, with immediate plans to connect Las Vegas to Southern California. For more information, visit www.gobrightline.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
WELLINGTON, FL–The Mall at Wellington Green will host several exciting family-friendly events this September. From Florida Panthers autograph signings and Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations to Quinceañera fashion shows and classic car meetups, there is something fun for everyone this month in Wellington.
Cars & Coffee Palm Beach
Sunday, September 8
8am-11am
Dillard’s Parking Lot
$15 per vehicle entry, free for spectators
Cars & Coffee Palm Beach is the county’s largest automotive showcase, featuring top-quality vehicles, including exotics, classics, hot rods, supercars, muscle cars, euros, and high-end sports cars.
Palm Beach Autographs Panthers Signing
Sunday, September 8
11am-2pm
Palm Beach Autographs
Prices vary
Palm Beach Autographs is excited to welcome Florida Panthers player and recent Stanley Cup champion, Matthew Tkachuk. Fans will be able to meet the Panthers forward Tkachuk, who will be signing autographs and posing for photo ops. For more information or to buy tickets, visit palmbeachautographs.com/pages/signings.
Palm Beach Autographs Miami Dolphins Signing
Wednesday, September 17
5:30-9pm
Palm Beach Autographs
Prices vary
Palm Beach Autographs is thrilled to welcome Miami Dolphins players Odell Beckham Jr., Tyreek Hill, Jonnu Smith, and De’Von Achane. Fans will be able to meet the Dolphins superstars, who will be signing autographs and posing for photo ops. For more information or to buy tickets, visit palmbeachautographs.com/pages/signings.
Kids Club Mommy & Me Paw Patrol Party
Wednesday, September 18
10:30-11:30am
Grand Court
Free
Kids ages five and under are invited to the mall for a morning of Paw Patrol-themed fun! Activities will include decorating fire hats, engaging circle time, music, dancing, and cameos from Paw Patrol characters Chase and Marshall.
Quinceañera Showcase
Saturday, September 21
1-3pm
Grand Court
Free
Join the mall for this unique event as we highlight Quineañera traditions in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month. This special showcase will include gorgeous Quinceañera court dresses and fashionable accessories, as well as makeup and hair demonstrations. Plus, attendees will enjoy a live DJ, dessert tastings, and special performances from Dr. Joaquin Garcia High School’s Latinos in Action organization!
Zumba Dance Party with Jaime
Every Saturday
10:30–11:30am
The District at Wellington Green
Free
Livin’ La Vida Zumba! Instructor Jaime’s fun, dance fitness party program combines high- and low-intensity Latin dance moves designed to burn calories and boost cardio endurance.
OneBlood Blood Drive
September 13, 14, and 15
11am–6pm
East Parking Lot
The Big Red Bus will be parked in the East Parking Lot and will be accepting blood donations. Every pint of blood donated has the potential to save three lives, and donors will receive a Chick-fil-A gift card. For more information, visit oneblood.org.
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.
I firmly believe good craft beer is a national treasure. My husband and I are full-time travelers, and we love to visit breweries around the country since many of them are dog-friendly. When it comes to finding a perfect sip of suds, South Florida is no exception, boasting a ton of great craft breweries worth visiting. That’s why I’ve curated some of my favorite dog-friendly spots in the region! Check them out on your next weekend adventure or road trip as summertime comes to a close.
Pro tips: Before heading to your brewery of choice, always call ahead to confirm they’re still dog-friendly, because these rules can sometimes change. Bring treats and a bowl that you can fill with fresh water, and be sure your pup can socialize with other people and/or dogs so everyone stays safe and comfortable. Last but not least, always drink responsibly!
Take a day trip to Stuart for a laid-back coastal vibe—and while you’re at it, stop at Ocean Republic Brewing for some excellent brews! My picks include the Thrasher West Coast IPA (always a favorite, since it tastes like a pine tree) and the Glassy amber lager. Ocean Republic is dog-friendly outside and inside—a big bonus when it’s too hot. Their food menu offers something for everyone, from tuna nachos and smoked fish dip (my go-to!) to wings and poutine, with several varieties of Québec’s national dish.
If you love IPAs, Civil Society is the place to go. With two dog-friendly locations, it’s a hip spot to hang out, play games, or work. Dogs are allowed on the patio at the Jupiter location, and West Palm’s industrial-style taproom is dog-friendly inside and in the beer garden. Don’t miss the Fresh IPA, their flagship beer. For non-IPA drinkers, try the Wünderkind hefeweizen or the crushable Beach Access lager. You can also order scrumptious wood-fired pizza from Grato down the street. Local ‘za and local beer? The perfect combination!
Located across Dixie Highway just west of downtown Lake Worth Beach, Mathews is not to miss. With a spacious, dog-friendly patio, plus a rotation of local food trucks and live music, it’s a great place to spend time with friends, get some work done, or hang with your pup. My favorite beer at Mathews is Sweet Emotion, a delicious light-bodied cream ale with a touch of hops and vanilla. I also like the dry-hopped, piney Accelerate IPA, characterized by elements of citrus and Simcoe and Centennial hops.
Boynton Beach is home to several solid breweries, including NOBO. While the brewery has limited outdoor seating, they are dog-friendly inside—a welcome option if it’s hot or it’s pouring down rain! With a smaller space and a selection of board games to play, it truly feels like a neighborhood spot. They also have a nice rotation of beers, including the summery Boynton Blonde. I particularly enjoyed Checkin’ it Twice, a seasonal winter ale punctuated by warm baking spices—and just the right hint of maltiness.
Located in downtown Oakland Park, Funky Buddha still feels like a hip local operation, despite becoming a major player in the craft beer world. They have tons of outdoor seating, making it a perfect place for you and your pup. My go-to is the Eternal Summer blonde/golden ale—though during Oktoberfest I love the Buddhafest Märzen—and my husband enjoys the Floridian wheat ale! They also have cocktails and an impressive menu. Some of my favorite selections include the yucca tots, bison sliders, and spent grain pretzels.
American College of Cardiology NCDR Chest Pain ̶ MI Registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award recognizes sustained, high-level performance in quality of care
Wellinton, FL August 27, 2024 – Wellington Regional Medical Center has received the American College of Cardiology’s NCDR Chest Pain ̶ MI Registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award for 2024. Wellington Regional Medical Center is one of only 259 hospitals nationwide to receive the honor.
The award recognizes Wellington Regional Medical Center’s commitment and success in implementing a higher standard of care for heart attack patients and signifies that Wellington Regional Medical Center has reached an aggressive goal of treating these patients to standard levels of care as outlined by the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association clinical guidelines and recommendations.
To receive the Chest Pain ̶ MI Registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award, [HOSPITAL NAME] has demonstrated sustained achievement in the Chest Pain ̶ MI Registry for two consecutive years (2022 and 2023) and performed at the highest level for specific performance measures. Full participation in the registry engages hospitals in a robust quality improvement process using data to drive improvements in adherence to guideline recommendations and overall quality of care provided to heart attack patients.
The Centers for Disease Control estimates that over 800,000 Americans suffer a heart attack each year. A heart attack occurs when a blood clot in a coronary artery partially or completely blocks blood flow to the heart muscle. Treatment guidelines include administering aspirin upon arrival and discharge, timely restoration of blood flow to the blocked artery, smoking cessation counseling and cardiac rehabilitation, among others.
“We are incredibly proud to be recognized as one of the nation’s top-performing hospitals for the treatment of heart attack patients. The American College of Cardiology’s NCDR Chest Pain – MI
Registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award is a testament to our team’s dedication to providing the highest quality of care. This achievement reflects our sustained commitment to excellence and our relentless focus on improving patient outcomes.” Said Pam Tahan, CEO of Wellington Reginal Medical Center
Chest Pain ̶ MI Registry empowers health care provider teams to consistently treat heart attack patients according to the most current, science-based guidelines and establishes a national standard for understanding and improving the quality, safety and outcomes of care provided for patients with coronary artery disease, specifically high-risk heart attack patients.
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 http://www.wellingtonregional.com.
The American College of Cardiology (ACC) is the global leader in transforming cardiovascular care and improving heart health for all. As the preeminent source of professional medical education for the entire cardiovascular care team since 1949, ACC credentials cardiovascular professionals in over 140 countries who meet stringent qualifications and leads in the formation of health policy, standards and guidelines. Through its world-renowned family of JACC Journals, NCDR registries, ACC Accreditation Services, global network of Member Sections, CardioSmart patient resources and more, the College is committed to ensuring a world where science, knowledge and innovation optimize patient care and outcomes. Learn more at www.ACC.org or follow @ACCinTouch.
BOCA RATON, FL, August 27, 2024– The Junior League of Boca Raton (JLBR) has announced the 43 local women who have been nominated for the 37th Annual Woman Volunteer of the Year Award. Nonprofits from across Palm Beach and Northern Broward counties have nominated one of their valued volunteers to be considered for Woman Volunteer of the Year Award. The award recipient will be named at the annual luncheon on Friday, November 1st at The Boca Raton iconic resort and private club.
The nominees are Amiee Hawkins, Alzheimer’s Association; Althea Largie Ceasor, American Association of Caregiving Youth ; Elaine Tobita, Barky Pines Animal Rescue & Sanctuary; Sue MacDonald, Best Foot Forward Foundation; Loretta Parker, Boca Ballet Theater; Zoe Lanham, Boca Helping Hands, Inc.; Eileen Travasos, Boca Raton Christian School; Olivia Hollaus, Boca Raton Historical Society; Nicole Flier, Boca Raton Police Foundation; Marcia Mithun, Boca West Children’s Foundation; Mandy Bohlman, Boys & Girls Club of Palm Beach County; Jan Savarick, Brain Bowl Events, Inc.; Janet Diaz-Martinez, Caridad Center; Andrea Cannon, Congregation B’Nai Israel; Cheryl Crowley, Cultural Council for Palm Beach County; Amanda Perna, Delray Beach Public Library; Tammera Atkins, Dress for Success Palm Beaches; Randee Wechsler, Eda and Cliff Viner Community Scholars Foundation; Teresa Fedele, Florida Atlantic University Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing; Ashley Cacicedo-Surdovel, Friends of Foster Children of Palm Beach County, Inc.; Danielle Rosse, George Snow Scholarship Fund; Shawn Sherlock, Gina Rose Montalto Memorial Foundation Inc.; Mindy Shikiar, HabCenter of Boca Raton; Robyn Raphael Dynan, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Palm Beach County; Michelle Makris, Hanley Foundation; Iris Urbina, Hispanic Entrepreneur Initiative; Carrie Rubin, Impact 100 Palm Beach County; Elizabeth Rivera, In The Pines; Nancy Dockerty, Junior League of Boca Raton; Arlene Herson, National Society of Arts and Letters; Jennifer Nawrocki, Palm Beach Symphony; Judy Noren, Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League; Haley Winstead, Place of Hope at the Leighan and David Rinker Campus; Nancy Brinker, Promise Fund; Tabitha Stambaugh, Rotary Club Downtown Boca Raton; Sudane Ricketts, Scholar Career Coaching; Gabby Teran, Student ACES; Abby Bernstein, Sweet Dream Makers; Reilly Glasser, The Diaper Bank, Covering South Florida; Robyn Perlman, Women of Tomorrow Mentor & Scholarship Program; Caroline Johnson, Women’s Executive Club; Nicole Grimes, YMCA of South Palm Beach County; and Daniela Levenson, YWCA Palm Beach County.
“These incredible nominees have made such a vast difference for our community. We are looking forward to honoring these truly deserving women,” said Nikki Stelzer, president of the Junior League of Boca Raton.
Kelly Woods Fleming has been named honorary chair and Meryll Bangsil and Khrisna Kellerman will serve as event co-chairs, as announced by JLBR president Nikki Stelzer.
Meryll Bangsilgrew up in New Jersey and moved to Florida in 2003 shortly after graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a minor in Economics from Boston University. She is a Senior Vice President and Certified Financial Planner at UBS Financial Services, Inc., where she is the trusted advisor for numerous Ultra High Net Worth families throughout the U.S. Furthermore, Meryll is recognized by Forbes as a Top Wealth Advisor and Best-in-State Wealth Advisor. She became a member of the Junior League of Boca Raton in 2016 and has volunteered her time to serving our community while working full-time, training for marathons and raising three daughters.
In 2019, she was nominated for the Junior League’s Woman Volunteer of the Year Award by Best Foot Forward (BFF). That same year, she was nominated by Soroptimist International for the Women of Distinction award for her community contributions and then in 2023 for her contributions to BFF. Meryll and her husband, Ethan, jointly chaired the 2022 BFF Bash achieving record donations. She is deeply honored to Co-Chair this year’s event, being a former nominee and having served on the committee for multiple years.
Khrisna Kellerman, a New York City native, has resided in Boca Raton, FL for 11 years with her husband Ted Kellerman and their two children. She currently works as the Parish Executive Assistant and Director of Events at St. Jude Catholic Church. Prior to her move to Florida, Khrisna was the founder and designer of Kaija NY. In 2006, she launched a handbag and accessory brand that promotes women empowerment by providing jobs to local artisans in rural areas in the Philippines. Wanting to give back she partnered with Childhope Asia, a non-profit children’s orphanage home that assisted survivors of human trafficking and child abuse.
Khrisna has a long-standing dedication to serving those in need and an extensive record of volunteering through her church, children’s schools, and other local organizations. In 2016, she became a member of the Junior League of Boca Raton and has since held positions on the FLAVORS and Woman Volunteer of the Year committees. She also served as a committee member at the YMCA Inspiration Breakfast and BFF Bash Event.
Meryll and Khris met shortly after Khris moved to Florida and their families bonded over a
traditional family-style Filipino meal. Their children are close in age and often frequented Disney
together when their children were younger. They have been great friends for over a decade,
traveled and trained for several World Major Marathons together, and have been collaboratively
volunteering ever since joining the Junior League of Boca Raton in 2016. Meryll and Khris are
excited to co-chair this highly anticipated event and further support our community with meaning impact through the Junior League.
The Woman Volunteer of the Year Luncheon celebrates outstanding women in the community nominated by nonprofit organizations for their dedication and expertise as volunteers, as well as the work they do to further the missions of the organizations they serve. Proceeds benefit the Junior League of Boca Raton.
The Presenting Sponsor is the Junior League of Boca Raton’s 1971 Society. The Award Presentation Sponsor is The Christine E. Lynn Women’s Health & Wellness Institute and The Boca Raton Regional Hospital Foundation. The Boca Raton is the Fashion Show Sponsor. The Media Sponsor is Boca Magazine.
The November 1st event will start with a 10 a.m. social and silent auction with champagne followed by a luncheon, runway fashion show presented by The Boca Raton and concluding with the announcement of the award recipient. Chandelier Table raffle tickets are available for $25. The raffle winner’s entire table will be moved to an elevated chandelier table and served a premium-plated lunch. Each person at the table will receive a $500 luxury swag bag from The Boca Raton.
Sponsorships are available and tables, tickets and ads are now on sale. Platinum tables are $4,000, Gold tables are $3,000, Silver tables are $2,000 and Silver General Seating is $200 per ticket. Tribute Program Book ads are available to honor nominees. For more information, visit https://wvoy.givesmart.com or call 561-620-2553.
The luncheon is organized by volunteers of the Junior League of Boca Raton (JLBR).
Committee members include Hanna Bradley, Brittanny Ferguson, Clarissa Gleichenhaus,
Camila Harasic, Daphney Hoover, Kelly Humke, Namrata Israni, Dila Kaya, Victoria Matthews,
Ronan, Susan Rutherford, Renata Sans De Negri, Kim Sapashe, Neha Sharan, Karen Wadowicz, Sonia Wegweiser and Kali Williams. The Assistant Chairs are Tara Currier, Veronica Kraft, Kristen
McElwee, Racheal Petullo and Brittany Wright.
About the Junior League of Boca Raton Throughout the year, JLBR members contribute more than 35,000 volunteer hours and donate more than $250,000 to support the organization’s mission of advancing women’s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration and training. The Junior League currently focuses on two community issues, Child Welfare and Non-Profit Support.
To learn more about the JLBR, please contact the JLBR office at 561-620-2553 or visit www.JLBR.org.Connect on Facebook or Instagram.
(Boynton Beach, Fla.) Monday, August 26, 2024-The nonprofit Schoolhouse Children’s Museum proudly announces the return of their signature fundraiser, the Back to School Bash. This year’s event will be set in the Wild Wild West, named the Back-to-School Country Bash, presented by Palm Health Foundation on Friday, September 20, 2024, at 6:30 pm at Benvenuto in Boynton Beach.
The Schoolhouse Children’s Museum’s Back to School Country Bash is a signature event that connects the community to the museum. It brings community leaders, local business leaders, and young professionals together for a night when adults dress up in a country western theme with friends for a fun evening filled with old-fashioned country-themed games, dinner, a silent auction, line dancing, and a mechanical bull. Nashville recording artists, the Tom Jackson Band, will be performing. The emcee (wrangler) is Chelsea Taylor from New Country WIRK 103.1.
Every year, the Museum presents awards to honor the supporters who help make their work successful. The Ignite Volunteer Award was created to honor an individual or group who has ignited their passion for the Museum and given time and talent to further the organization’s mission. This year’s honorees are Adrianne Golding & Susan Yohe. The Blaze Award was created to honor an individual or couple who are trailblazer(s) who have inspired others by demonstrating their leadership and support of the museum. This year’s honoree is Jim Guilbeault. The Spark Award was created to recognize a business or organization that supports the museum’s effort to inspire creativity and the desire to learn through hands-on exploration, play, and discovery. This year’s honoree is PNC Grow Up Great.
Funds raised will be used to update the museum’s existing farm exhibit. “Curiosity flourishes most in young minds, and wonder is the spark that ignites a lifelong love of learning. Our Family Farms exhibit is designed to spark that curiosity by allowing children to explore and experience what life was like for Florida’s early pioneers– through play, imagination, and hands-on learning. By supporting the Back-to-School Country Bash, you’re helping us provide these enriching experiences that give every child the opportunity to discover and explore the world around them in a way that’s engaging, fun, and perfectly suited for their early years.”, by Miriam Naranjo, assistant director.
This year’s Bash Chair is Jennifer Sardone-Shiner, and the committee includes Laura Berrio, Jason DelGrosso, Jeffrey Fine, Brian Goldfuss, Michael Haysmer, Roz Kodish, Victoria Lindsay, Marcella Montesinos, Maria Morris, Larissa Nausedat, Lora Schmitt, Brandy Shaw, Alisa Sheyn, Alex Martinez Slaton, Jill Verban, and Michael Zeff.
Sponsors: Palm Health Foundation, Flagler Credit Union, Wyn Yelin, Financial Advisor-Edward Jones, JSS Marketing & Public Relations, PNC Bank, Ithink Financial, Belle of the Ball, Frankl & Kominsky Injury Lawyers, Via Productions Inc., Raising Canes, and Donnasellshouses.net.
Sponsorships are available. Tickets are $135pp, after Labor Day, $150pp, and a table of eight is $1250. For sponsorships, contact Miriam for more information at 561-742-6787 or miriam@schoolhousemuseum.org. To buy tickets, visit schoolhousemuseum.org.
About Schoolhouse Children’s Museum: The Schoolhouse Children’s Museum opened in 2001 and is located in one of the first schools in Boynton Beach. Since then, hundreds of thousands of children and families have visited the museum, where Learning is an Adventure, enjoying the wide range of programs and exhibits housed in the old Boynton School. Their mission is to inspire and engage children and families to explore, play, learn, and discover through creative, interactive opportunities that integrate the arts, humanities, and sciences in cultural and historical settings. To learn more, visit schoolhousemuseum.org.
