Boca Raton Observer Feb 2010 by Boca Raton Observer

the

Love & Romance

Mod Couples

issue

Unlikely Pairs Prove Opposites Attract

The Date Escape

52 Romantic Outings That Won’t Break The Bank

Flirting With Disaster Singles Share Dates They'd Rather Forget

Marital Wows

Offbeat Wedding Venues

February 2010

Money Love Sometimes

Can Buy You Bravo TV’s Millionaire Matchmaker Patti Stanger Plays Cupid – And Finds Prince Charming

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The Love & Romance Issue

02.10

contents

VolUme vii ; Number 2

features � The Date Escape

52 Romantic Outings That Won’t Break The Bank

Flirting With Disaster

South Florida Singles Recall Dates They’d Rather Forget

Mod Couples

Marital Wows

Living – And Loving – Outside The Norm, Unlikely Couples Prove Opposites Attract

Offbeat Wedding Venues Make For Affairs To Remember

Money o ve L Can Buy You

Bravo TV’s Millionaire Matchmaker Patti Stanger Plays Cupid – And Finds Her Own Prince Charming

contents

02.10 VolUme viI ; Number 2

departments Observed Hot Stuff & The People Who Make It Happen 22 The Buzz 26 Trends 30 La Vida Boca

22 26

Media Blitz The Quintessential Arts Report 33 On Screen 34 In Print 38 On Scene That’s Life A Guide To Personal Growth 43 Relations 46 Parents 50 Destinations

Taste The Dish on Food, Wine & Restaurants 103 Bites 106 Review 110 Listings

112

Happenings The Essential Social Digest 131 Around Town 149 Calendar 160 Flash AT HOME The Local Real Estate Report 166 Giving BACK Charity Never Goes Out Of Style 168

On THE cover: Patti Stanger Photography courtesy of Bravo

THE

LOVE & ROMANCE

MOD COUPLES

ISSUE

Unlikely Pairs Prove Opposites Attract

THE DATE ESCAPE

52 Romantic Outings That Won’t Break The Bank

FLIRTING WITH DISASTER Singles Share Dates They'd Rather Forget

MARITAL WOWS

Offbeat Wedding Venues

FEBRUARY 2010

149

MONEY LOVE SOMETIMES

CAN BUY YOU Bravo TV’s Millionaire Matchmaker PATTI STANGER Plays Cupid – And Finds Prince Charming

Volume VII, Number 2 The Boca Raton Observer, (USPS 024758, ISSN 1940-4239) is published monthly except for July by A&A Publishing Corp. Executive offices: 950 Peninsula Corporate Circle, Suite 1020, Boca Raton, FL 33487. Periodical Postage Paid at Boca Raton, FL and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Boca Raton Observer, 950 Peninsula Corporate Circle, Suite 1020, Boca Raton, FL 33487.

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publisher & ceo Linda L. Behmoiras chief operating officer Ralph Behmoiras editorial editor Felicia S. Levine editorial interns Jessica Gross Marissa Hicken Art art director Scott Deal graphic designer Gary Tang Production production director Candi Montaperto Advertising director of account development Nicole Ruth nicole@bocaratonobserver.com account managers Ronnie Kaufman ronnie@bocaratonobserver.com

Nancy Porto nancy@bocaratonobserver.com

Skip Waldman

Senior Vice President, Investments

The Boca Raton Observer is published eleven times a year by A&A Publishing Corp. and is direct mailed to affluent homes in Boca Raton and Delray Beach.

The Boca Raton Observer accepts no responsibility for the return of unsolicited manuscripts and/or

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photographs and assumes no liability for products or services advertised herein. Opinions expressed by the writers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Publisher. The Boca Raton Observer reserves the right to edit, rewrite or refuse material. Publisher is not responsible for typographical or production errors or accuracy of information provided

Past performance is not indicative of future results. SmartMoney does not endorse any product or service of Raymond James. The Wall Street Journal does not endorse, sponsor or approve the investment programs of Raymond James. The Wall Street Journal survey identifies the top five analysts across various industry categories, basing the awards on stock-picking skill. The Forbes rankings for the “400 Best Big Companies in America” are based on stringent criteria including accounting and governance ratings, revenue, positive equity, long-term earnings growth and debt-to-capital ratios. The information provided is for informational purposes only and is not a solicitation to buy or sell Raymond James Financial stock. ©2009 Raymond James & Associates, Inc., member New York Stock Exchange/SIPC

The Boca Raton Observer may be used or repoduced without the express written permission of the Publisher.

T h e B o c a R at o n Ob s e r v e r

Restaurants

Argentango Grill Bangkok in Boca Blu Bambu Boca Breakfast Club Casimir French Bistro Chops Lobster Bar CHOW Boca Cote France Bakery & Café Daimatsu Sushi Giovanni's Pizza Holloway's Irish Pub Jake's Stone Crab Lemongrass Asian Bistro Ristorante Sapori Rosario’s Ristorante Rustic Cellar Saquella Caﬀe Table 42 Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar Tropical Smoothie Café The Wishing Well Irish Pub

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Fine Jewelry D'Vara Jewelers Verdi Fine Jewelers

Salons & Spas

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Art & Design

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Specialties & Services

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T H E L U X U R Y R E S O R T O N G R A C E B AY

Eclipsing All Others Introducing the Spectacular Seven Stars Resort

Contributors writers

Bill Bowen Linda Haase Cheryl Kane Heimlich Steve Kates D.L. Lunsford Emily J. Minor Andrea G. Rollin Roberta Sandler Mary Thurwachter Kate Townsend photographers

Janis Bucher Patty Daniels Corby Kaye Amy Martin Paulette Martin Robert Stolpe Scott Sukel

Corrections: In the January issue, Johns Hopkins was spelled incorrectly. In addition, Playtown Cafe was written as having 51,000 square feet – it has 5,100 square feet. We apologize for the errors.

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T h e B o c a R at o n Ob s e r v e r

THE home & Design ISSUE Stunning rooms, daring decor and homes to covet

April •

THE Women’s ISSUE Beauty secrets, fabulous fashions and fascinating personalities

May •

THE men’s ISSUE Movers and shakers, great gadgets and boy toys

TRUST YOUR

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The Boca Raton Observer is an entertaining and informative high-quality magazine dedicated to the active, upbeat and trendsetting readers living and working in the Boca Raton area. Committed to a comprehensive focus on the community, The Boca Raton Observer celebrates the people, their homes and businesses, charity and cultural organizations and the schools and leisure activities that comprise the essential Boca Raton lifestyle. For general inquiries, please contact us via:

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T h e B o c a R at o n Ob s e r v e r

Mail: 950 Peninsula Corporate Circle, Suite 1020 Boca Raton, FL 33487 Phone: 561-982-8960 Fax: 561-994-8509 E-mail: info@bocaratonobserver.com Web: bocaratonobserver.com editorial Your input and comments are welcome and appreciated. Submissions should be sent to our corporate address listed above and may appear in a future issue. E-mail messages may be directed to the following addresses: editor@bocaratonobserver.com publisher@bocaratonobserver.com Letters may be edited for style and grammar. We reserve the right to withhold any letters we deem inappropriate for publication. news, photos & events Releases and calendar items must be delivered in text format for consideration. In addition, only photographs in jpeg format with 300 dpi resolution or better that are accompanied with complete captions will be considered. Send information via e-mail to news@ bocaratonobserver.com or mail photos to our corporate address listed above. advertising Advertising information can be obtained by calling 561-982-8960 or by e-mailing sales@bocaratonobserver.com. Publicize your business in the local lifestyle magazine with the largest circulation in Boca Raton – 27,000 copies per month. Verification of circulation is made by Audit Bureau of Circulations (ABC). on the web Visit bocaratonobserver.com for highlights of our magazine and much more.

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Metropolitan

Tr a d i t i o n a l

Robert Brantley Photography

Contemporary

35 Years of Designing Beautiful Homes from Miami to Palm Beach

nderstanding her client’s desire for innovative style, Lachance pays meticulous attention to detail. Her pursuit for design excellence takes her to the best U.S. markets inspiring her to come up with new

state-of-the-art designs. During the past thirty-five years she has won many awards as well as being published numerous times for her outstanding interior design styles and themes. Let Lachance create a dream come true for you.

Licensed Interior Designer #0001724 | IBC 000316 | www.susanlachance.com | 561-241-3800

SUSAN LACHANCE

02.10 8from the publisher

Heart Matters Linda L. Behmoiras

linda@bocaratonobserver.com

t’s the season of love, sweets and valentines, and it’s in this spirit that we present our Love & Romance issue. Inside, we think you’ll find plenty to love! Who better to feature on our February cover than Bravo TV’s Millionaire Matchmaker Patti Stanger? The former South Florida resident, who still visits often, is known for her Cupid ways and brassy style. Check out Stanger – and her new beau! – in Money Can Buy You Love (page 54). And speaking of couples, in this issue, we introduce you to four modern couples that fit outside the traditional mold, proving that true love certainly does appear in all colors, shapes and sizes. Vive le difference! Check out Mod Couples (page 76). And for couples taking it to the next level, our piece Marital Wows (page 84) introduces some unique venues outside the norm that certainly make for memorable weddings. Of course, we do not overlook our single readers. In The Date Escape (page 60), we reveal 52 fabulous outings (one for every weekend of the year)

T h e B o c a R at o n Ob s e r v e r

that won’t break the bank. And because we know being single is not always easy – we’ve all been there – we present Flirting With Disaster (page 72), which pays homage to those who know all too well that it’s a jungle out there. Trust us: You won’t want to miss these hilarious stories! Also in this issue, you’ll find great Valentine’s Day gift ideas, a great getaway, tips for choosing the best Champagne and so much more! Finally, on a serious note, please read our Giving Back department (page 168) which focuses on the plight in Haiti and how you can help. Show your love, and give generously. Or just give. Every bit helps. In the true spirit of love, we hope you spend the month of February truly showing your love to those around you. Best wishes for a month filled with love and laughter.

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observed hot stuff & the people who make it happen

the buzz 8 trends 8 la vida boca

design

Romancing The Stone Jewelry designer Elizabeth Locke is a Southern girl with worldly tastes. A former Town & Country writer with a degree in gemology, Locke scans the globe in search of unusual pieces to incorporate into her women’s antique-inspired pendants, earrings, necklaces and bracelets. She might find a rare coin in Greece or a Venetian glass fragment in Italy, then head back to her Virginia farm to create her upscale pieces. While in town for a promotional appearance at Neiman Marcus in Town Center at Boca Raton, she took time to chat with The Boca Raton Observer. What inspired you to become a jewelry designer?

“I was sent to Bangkok to do a story on jewelry being made there. I saw beautiful materials being turned into ugly jewelry and I thought I could do better. I went to gemology school and jumped on in. And I still work with the people I met on that first trip.” How would you describe your line?

“It’s a mix of neoclassical and mythological. I remount a lot of antique pieces because I love that look, but then transpose it so it works today.” Who carries your jewelry?

“It’s sold at Neiman Marcus stores across the country and at a handful of other stores, including Veranda in Vero Beach. I also have my own store on Madison Avenue in New York.” Your favorite pieces? A real Gem:

Jewelry designer Elizabeth Locke

“I love the micromosaics – tiny mosaics made in Italy. It’s a lost art from 1870. I’ve been collecting them for a really long time. We sell a handful each year.” What would you be doing if not designing jewelry?

“I’d be working at an antiques auction house. That’s my dream job. But of course, I’d want to buy everything.” What’s next for your jewelry line?

“I don’t want to expand. I buy every stone. I sketch every drawing. That’s how I want to keep it.” Describe the best piece of jewelry you ever received?

“When we married, my husband gave me antique tortoiseshell-anddiamond hair combs. I don’t wear them anymore, but I love them.” What piece would you recommend for a woman as a Valentine’s Day gift?

“Whatever she wants.” — Jessica Gross

The Buzz by Felicia S. Levine

Got a tip? E-mail the editor at Felicia@bocaratonobserver.com

February 2010

observed8 the buzz

63%

Keith Barany

Stats

The percentage of couples planning to stay home this Valentine’s Day, according to WorstPizza.com. The Boca Raton-based pizza review site conducted a national online poll of 3,000 men and women, asking how participants planned to spend the holiday. Of those staying home, reported plans included recreating a first date, picking romantic ideas from a jar and making it a family night. oddball

Girls Got

entertainment

Mr. Clean Funnyman Keith Barany has quite the comedy credentials:

He’s shared stages with Joan Rivers, Jerry Seinfeld, Jon Stewart and other entertainment powerhouses, and has written for TV shows including Seinfeld, Politically Incorrect and Jimmy Kimmel Live!. So, why haven’t you heard of him? Perhaps it’s because his humor is – dare we say it – clean (and face it – smut draws more attention). That’s right, no sex, cussing or drug inferences. Just good old-fashioned yuks and guffaws, along with some quick-witted improv. “It’s PG comedy with some kick to it,” explains Barany, whose influences include Jay Leno and Bill Cosby. Like many comics, he draws material from life, which in his case includes growing up in a New York Orthodox Jewish home. Says Barany on his Web site, “I served 14 years in a minimum security yeshiva for a crime I didn’t commit!” South Florida audiences seem to get the joke. He’s been a regular at Boca Raton’s New York Comedy Club since he started his career in the 1980s. Wanna laugh? He’ll be back February 26th and 27th. For more information, call 561-470-6887 or visit nyccboca.com. — Jessica Gross

“

overheard

When I watch the news, I’m always hearing about the violence that happens in the Middle East. I just want to say that I hope everyone in the world can get along.

”

– Pahokee resident/sixth-grade TV reporter Damon Weaver, who was interviewed on the Arabian TV network Alhurra about his interview with President Barack Obama.

Source: Sun-Sentinel

T h e B o c a R at o n Ob s e r v e r

Your Back American twenty-something males would probably agree on one thing they’d like to see made easier. Balancing the checkbook? No. Getting through the line at Starbucks? Nope. Picking up chicks? Uh, yeah ... duh. Shane Forbes was your average 25-year-old bar-hopping New Yorker when, noting he had better luck meeting women while out with a female friend, started his successful business, Wingwomen LLC. The way it works: Forbes’ Wingwomen (which charge $50 an hour) accompany a client to a nightspot, break the ice with women with whom he’s attracted – then discreetly fade to the background. The company was a hit in New York City, with Forbes appearing on the local news, The Montel Williams Show, NBC’s Today and in numerous newspapers and magazines. Business boomed. He opened a Las Vegas branch. He now runs the company remotely from his new home in Miami, where he hopes to launch Wingwomen services this month. “Maybe by Valentine’s Day,” he says. That would be appropriate.

— Bill Bowen

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observed8 the buzz community

Lip Service

There must be a Guinness World Record for everything, and here’s why we think so: A Delray Beach makeup artist recently broke a record for “most lipstick applications by an individual in one hour.” No kidding. Georgio Fernandez of LadyLash Studios in Delray Beach applied lipstick on 132 women, topping the record of New York City resident Jerry Huchinson’s 107 applications. “I could have done more, but we ran out of lipstick,” says Fernandez, who averaged 3.5 seconds per pucker. “I’m used to doing Fashion Week, where you have 20 seconds to do a full face of makeup between wardrobe changes, so I figured it would be no problem putting on lipstick in a second or two.” He says he was as surprised as anyone to learn that lipstick application was an actual Guinness record category. But after some research, he hired a company to document the occasion, put out the word and soon, “women were lining up around the corner.” Participants paid $5 each and got a free lipstick. The event raised $530, all of which benefited the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Watch for Fernandez in the Guinness World Records 2011 edition.

Georgio Fernandez

charity

star sighting Photos by Corby Kaye

Food For Thought Actor Jeff Garlin of HBO’s Curb Your Enthusiasm

turned out recently to help Paul Castronovo and Ron Brewer of radio’s Paul & Young Ron Show raise nearly 1.5 million pounds of food for Feeding South Florida, a nonprofit organization that aids the hungry. Garlin donated a walk-on part on his show, which was auctioned off for $5,000.

Fatima NeJame, Geri Muoio, Ann Curry, Bill Moss and Joan Goldberg

Ann Curry

Picture Perfect

Looking as bright-eyed as she does on TV, NBC Today co-host Ann Curry stopped by the Palm Beach Photographic Centre in West Palm Beach, where her exhibition, Empathy, runs through February 21st. During a speech she told the crowd, “My travels have convinced me that no human being is really foreign to another. It is time for us to stand up against the suffering caused by genocide, war and ignorance. If we care enough about our huovo, astron Paul C rlin and Jeff Ga Mike Mobile

T h e B o c a R at o n Ob s e r v e r

man family, we can change the future.” For more information about the exhibit, call 561-253-2600 or visit workshop.org.

observed8 women’s valentine’s trends

1. Hanson Ellis My Other Half Heart Key Chains for him and her represent your love – especially when you’re apart. Available at hansonellis.com. 2. Shanghai Tang Gold Fish Short Kimono mixes sexy silk with elegant Oriental flair. Available at shanghaitang.com.

Sweet Somethings By Jessica Gross

8Romantic Gestures Will Win Her Heart

3. Juicy Couture Charm Necklace features five Valentine’s Day-themed charms on a gold-plated chain. Available at nordstrom.com. 4. Red Envelope Couple’s Bath Caddy in solid bamboo includes two Champagne flutes for bubbly with your bubbles. Available at redenvelope.com.

5. The new Intercourses: An Aphrodisiac Cookbook offers 200 naughty recipes to spice up your love life. Available at uncommongoods.com.

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observed8 men’s valentine’s trends 1

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observed8 la vida boca

Night Writer Poet Abby Bernal Embraces Her Dark Side

By Bill Bowen

bby Bernal was always a writer, but spent her waking hours pursuing more practical goals: a master’s degree in clinical social work, a family, a therapy practice in Boca Raton. This presented no conflict with her artistic side, which seemed to remain dormant during the day, taking over her brain functions while the sun is somewhere over China. Bernal is a sleep writer. “I’m up at 4 a.m., every day sometimes, writing it all down,” says the author of abigail and abigail touched. “Then I go

The Write Stuff: Abby Bernal

back and read it and try to figure out what it means. It sounds bizarre, but it doesn’t feel bizarre to me.” She has an idea where it comes from, her symbolic poetry, but she has no idea what form it will take until it appears on the page before her in the dead of night. Her writing might never have seen the light of the day had it not been for peer pressure from her artistic Facebook friends. “They pushed me to share my work,” says Bernal, a licensed clinical social worker with a practice since 2004. And the exposure and subsequent feedback was what per-

T h e B o c a R at o n Ob s e r v e r

suaded her to get self-published. The South Miami native’s husband and two sons probably have never witnessed her nocturnal artistic process, which is usually cued, she says, by something she sees or hears during the day. “I might read something or someone may say something,” says the 43-year-old, describing the cryptic signal to her creative center. “I’ll know when it happens, but it won’t take form until late at night.” One of her favorite poems is Between, about overcoming layers of

deception. “Once open she begins to unravel the protective coat … in a circular motion she peels … until she holds the bare center in the palm of her hand … it is a taste she will experience as both bitter and sweet.” For Bernal, the writing process is not laborious. “It pours out of me like water,” she says. “I can write one in 15 minutes.” Find Bernal’s poetry in bookstores including Shining Through in Delray Beach or online at Barnes & Noble or through her blog, poetrybyabigail.blogspot.com. O

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report

8 on screen 8 in print 8 on scene

Religious Experience

By Steve Kates

The Book Of Eli Packs A Powerful Punch

he Book of Eli, the new film starring Denzel Washington, is a triumph of sorts. Certainly, it is for Washington, who gives one of his finest performances to date – measured, nuanced and rich with emotional depths, doubtless spurred by the snappy direction of twin brothers Albert and Allen Hughes.

“

Washington is the heart and soul of the film, a man heading west guarding a book that we learn is the last Holy Bible on earth.

”

Washington, as a Christ-like figure, conveys an incredible range of feelings with the subtlest of looks and gestures, and screenwriter Gary Whitta has provided a beautifully complex script. The film is another in the recent spate of apocalyptic road pictures (The Road, 2012, I Am Legend). But rather than being merely a special effects bonanza, it is primarily a love story – between cinematographer Don Burgess and his subject matter. Burgess has infused the brooding, desolate settings with a magical penumbra that suggests the baroque religiosity of the biblical epics of the 1950s like Quo Vadis and The Ten Commandments, all rolling clouds, blowing dust and sinister umber skies. Many of the scenes are reminiscent of Federico Fellini’s earlier films. Washington is the heart and soul of the film, a man heading west guarding a book that we learn is the last Holy Bible on earth, all others having

been eliminated by the cataclysmic war, “the flash,” that destroyed the earth, and the resultant government that followed. He outdoes every gunslinger, Kung Fu master and swordsman who ever blazed across Hollywood screens. Not one of his bullets misses, in some of the most violent and, perhaps, downright unbelievable fights ever filmed. Washington’s nemesis is Gary Oldman, a town warlord who wants the bible as a tool with which to control larger groups of survivors for his own evil purposes. Oldman has an uncanny ability to be simultaneously charming and malevolent. He is every bit a match for Washington, and together, they generate a menacing electricity in their confrontations. Ukrainian Mila Kunis plays the young girl whom Washington rescues from Oldman’s clutches, and who accompanies him on his transcontinental mission. She is a fresh, assured, sassy young woman, forced to grow up too fast in the aftermath of the calamitous “flash” that ruined the world. She is the Magdalene in the story. Oldman is foiled in a marvelously inventive and unexpected denouement, reviving one’s faith in the goodness of mankind. O Rated R: contains violence

February 2010

media blitz 8 in print

Paging Dr. Books To Kick-Start Love Your Love Life

By Bill Bowen

When book after book tells you the reason you’re not involved in the most thrilling and fulfilling relationship of your life is because you’re seriously flawed, well, maybe you can believe everything you read. But wait, not that seriously flawed. Your love life can be fixed – perhaps with one of these books.

Meeting Your Half-Orange: An Utterly Upbeat Guide To Using Dating Optimism To Find Your Perfect Match By Amy Spencer It’s a gushy romantic sentiment that somewhere out there is the one person who will complete you, make 34

you whole, your perfect match. Your other half. Amy Spencer, writer, journalist, radio host, blogger and cockeyed optimist, puts her own little happy face on the concept by changing your other half to your half-orange. It’s a visual thing. This doesn’t necessarily change anything, but helps illustrate her vision that when you find the one perfect-in-every-way match, that person will be beautiful and sweet and juicy ... well, you get the idea. It’s all about what Spencer calls “dating optimism.” She writes: “Want to flip your attitude in a small but profound way so that you come to see dating as a positively amazing step on the path to meeting your other half? Want to find the person who’s so absolutely, totally right for you that you almost can’t believe a connection so perfect was even possible?” Excitable girl. Dating optimism. She’s got it, will share.

T h e B o c a R at o n Ob s e r v e r

Rules Of The Game By Neil Strauss In his New York Times best seller, The Game, Neil Strauss examines the world of casual sex – meat-market club scene encounters, even inthe-checkout-line encounters – and which pickup lines work best, i.e., produce immediate results. Immediacy is everything when it comes to pickup lines. These dating tips are not about finding an emotional connection. They are about finding “action.” His sequel, Rules Of The Game, takes the analysis a step further, although it must be conceded that with his first book he was well beyond third base. Strauss has written for The Village Voice, The New York Times, Rolling Stone and ghostauthored several celebrity memoirs. His epiphany? He placed a coarse and no-nonsense personal ad under

“man seeking woman,” describing himself in language one might find in X-rated publicity material about a porn film star. It ended by stating: “I don’t have time for petty drama or emotional hysterics. I do what I want, when I want.” And he got lots of responses.

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media blitz 8 in print

“

No man wants to sit around gabbing with you like we’re one of your girlfriends. Ever. It’s just not in our DNA to lounge around, sip coffee and dab at our eyes with tissue as if we’re in an AA meeting or on some psychologist’s couch trying to get things off our chest.

Act Like A Lady, Think Like A Man: What Men Really Think About Love, Relationships, Intimacy, And Commitment By Steve Harvey Understanding his point of view, reasons Steve Harvey, gives her valuable insight into stalled relationship issues. Like at the zoo, when your simpatico for the gorilla’s predicament in captivity makes it OK that he’s hurling chunks of compost material at you. Harvey, radio show host and one of four comedians in Spike Lee’s The Original Kings of Comedy, presents a “my way or the highway” approach to relationship management. A chapter title: “We Need To Talk,” And Other Words That Make Men Run For Cover. Non-negotiable. Just the way it is. But ... for some reason, Oprah likes this book, so sales will be in the gazillions. An excerpt: “No man wants to sit around gabbing with you like we’re one of your girlfriends. Ever. It’s just not in our DNA to lounge around, sip coffee and dab at our eyes with tissue as if we’re in an AA meeting or on some psychologist’s couch trying to get things off our chest.”

Become A Total Man Magnet: Make Every Man Fall In Love With You Instantly – Make Him Chase You Down Desperately And Beg For Attention By Sylvie Nicole I’m sorry, is that the title or the forward? Sylvie Nicole, who knows how to get it all out there on the 36

book cover, also knows how to present the bait and set the hookup. She should. She has worked in the field, with something called Wingwomen LLC, in which she’s hired to pose as a guy’s “platonic friend” and help him meet chicks. So Sylvie has seen firsthand what works, and provides explicit tips: Always hold a drink (so he doesn’t have to buy you one first thing). Smile genuinely (aloofness isn’t sexy). Make eye contact (lower your chin slightly and stare; you can lure him in from across the room). Don’t immediately ask what he does (sounds like a gold digger). Make positive small talk (don’t be catty, complaining, alarmist ... you can hit him with your deep, dark world view later).

Decoding Love: Why It Takes Twelve Frogs To Find A Prince, And Other Revelations From The Science Of Attraction By Andrew Trees Hormones pretty much drive the world. Art, merit badges, doctoral theses, accomplishments in any field -- have their origins in the eternal urge to impress a candidate for copulation, i.e., find a mate. But, as Andrew Trees shows in his fascinating third book, we’re going about it the wrong way, for the wrong reasons and ending up with the wrong people. Trees, whose thirst for scientific explanations provides microscopic detail on why we do the things we do, offers practical explanations for our romantic foibles and misguided signals as he

T h e B o c a R at o n Ob s e r v e r

– Steve Harvey

”

examines the nature of attraction and desire. His findings often provide stunning and amusing triggers for our behavior. Take the influence of smell, for example, and the fact that a spicy floral fragrance makes a woman appear 12 pounds lighter. Who knew? Trees, a Princeton grad with a Ph.D. from Virginia, draws from the latest studies in economics, brain science, game theory, evolutionary psychology and other fields, while presenting his conclusions with wit and style.

Get Over Yourself! How To Get Real, Get Serious And Get Ready To Find True Love By Patti Novak The insinuation is that you’re not doing it right: Just being yourself is not going to get you where you want to go with the potential love interest you finally connected with while waiting for coffee to percolate in the break room. Buffalo, N.Y.-based Patti Novak prides herself on her frank assessments and forthright manner when it comes to dating advice. She does not hesitate to reach the conclusion that it’s all your fault, and if you could just find your inner core, come to grips with your issues, get your psyche aligned, rotated and balanced, and quit talking about yourself so much, you could find the love that has eluded you. She has been doing this – her job description is “matchmaker/relationship coach” – long enough to know. Her Web site has helpful “tips for first dates.” But first things first. Get Over Yourself. O

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media blitz 8 on scene

American Gladys Brings Her Pipes – Idol Not Pips – To Kravis Center By Bill Bowen

hen Gladys Knight performs at the Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts on February 16th, she’ll bring a whole lot of history with her (if not the Pips). When Knight, her brother and two cousins broke into show biz in 1958 as Gladys Knight and the Pips, they had already been singing together for 14 years. Their first efforts, in an Atlanta Baptist church, occurred when she was 4. Thus began a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame career. Knight and her group hit the charts the year before Kennedy was elected and caught the attention of Motown mogul Berry Gordy when they performed in Harlem’s Apollo

Theater. They recorded I Heard It Through The Grapevine in 1967, which rose to No. 2 on the Billboard charts. They had another No. 2 hit with Neither One Of Us Wants To Be The First To Say Goodbye and in 1973 recorded Midnight Train To Georgia, the group’s first No. 1 song. The song won a Grammy award for Best Pop Vocal Performance. The group, consisting of Knight, brother Merald (Bubba) and cousins William Guest and Edward Patten, made numerous TV appearances, including several on the hugely popular Flip Wilson Show. Wilson got a lot of comedy mileage by booking just the Pips, who performed their backup vocals and inspired dance routines while

T h e B o c a R at o n Ob s e r v e r

no one sang lead. The entire band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum in 1996. Knight explained the group’s longevity: “One reason we’ve been able to stick together is because we pray before each show – pray for the strength to stay humble, courage to

keep pushing, and the ability to reach people with our message.” Her show at the Kravis Center begins at 8 p.m. No mention of the Pips in the playbill. O i

For more information, call 561-8327469 or visit kravis.org.

on scene 8 media blitz

Hot Stuff Dane Cook Brings His Comedy Groove To BankAtlantic Center By Bill Bowen

n stage, Dane Cook is always moving, pacing and contorting his body like one of those Memorial Day-sale inflatable stick figures whose arms and torsos flail and gyrate like some 30-foot rock star on mind-altering air blasts. Cook, who brings his Global Thermo Tour to BankAtlantic Center in Sunrise on February 6th moves that way, with his cartoonish pacing around the stage adding an almost slapstick element to his observational humor. And he likes to put the stage right in the middle of the arena and play to an audience that surrounds him, another reason to be constantly moving. Cook’s tour, behind his fourth album, ISolated INcident, played to 390,000 fans this spring before he took a break over the summer, except for a trip to entertain troops in Iraq. He plans to take the tour to five continents, hence the “Global” moniker. It could be said that the Cambridge, Mass. native went “global” when his second CD/DVD, Retaliation, went double platinum and climbed to Billboard’s No. 4 spot, putting him in elite comedic company with Bill Cosby, George Carlin and Steve Martin. In 2007, Cook sold out Madison Square Garden, only the second comedian to do so, and turned the live show into his third album, Rough Around The Edges, a Billboard No. 1 album. He’s hosted Saturday Night Live, been named Hot Comic by Rolling Stone and won Teen Choice Best Comedian in 2007.

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Cook’s Comedy Central special in May of 2009 was turned into ISolated INcident, a routine performed at the Laugh Factory, where he showed up unannounced and did his show for fewer than 30 people. Lucky them. In South Florida, Cook takes the stage at 8 p.m. O For more information, call 954-835-7469 or visit bankatlanticcenter.com.

February 2010

media blitz

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he original A Chorus Line redefined Broadway success, winning the Pulitzer Prize for Drama and receiving 12 Tony nominations, winning nine. It remains this country’s longest-running musical as its touring revival production arrives at the Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts from February 2nd through February 7th. While it’s had cast changes since appearing in Fort Lauderdale one year ago, it will include original star Michael Gruber in the role of the director, Zach.

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The show’s huge audience appeal is based in part on the personalities and stories of the characters, which are revealed piecemeal as the grueling auditions continue. By the end, when the audience feels as if it knows each dancer intimately, the cast returns to salute the crowd, wearing lavish matching outfits instead of their thrift-store tryout garb, and the spell of familiarity seems broken as they become hard to distinguish from each other. The revival’s director is Bob Avian, choreographer of the original 1975 production and a longtime associate of Michael Bennett, the show’s creator and original director. The book for the musical was co-written by James Kirkwood and Nicholas Dante, who won the 1976 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. Three of the five principals of the original production were outlived by its Broadway run, and another died the year after it closed. The show’s musical composer, Marvin Hamlisch, is still very much alive and is one of only two people (with Richard Rodgers) to have won an Emmy, Oscar, Grammy, Tony and Pulitzer Prize. Performances include matinees; call for specific show times. O For more information, call 561-832-7460 or visit kravis.org.

on scene

media blitz

RAP IT UP Hip-Hop Artist Jay-Z Comes To BankAtlantic Center By Bill Bowen

ay-Z’s stunning video of his song Empire State of Mind, in which Alicia Keys bangs the keyboard and provides a haunting, plaintive chorus, might not replace the iconic Old Blue Eyes version of New York, New York in everyone’s hearts, but it could fill that role in the hearts of a younger generation. Jay-Z, who performs at BankAtlantic Center February 20th, is one of the founding fathers of hiphop, the mean streets phenomenon of throbbing beats and fast ghetto rap that, against all odds, morphed into the first huge popular music movement with no chord changes. He and Keys presided over the Billboard Hot 100 with Empire State of Mind for a staggering five weeks at No. 1 before being bumped in late December. It was his fourth No. 1 song on the prestigious ranking, following three other collaborations including Heartbreaker with Mariah Carey,

Crazy in Love with Beyoncé Knowles, his wife, and Umbrella with Rihanna. Jay-Z, who grew up as Shawn Corey Carter, is perhaps the most entrepreneurial of the rap artists, many of whom had challenging childhoods in rough neighborhoods. He overcame life in the projects to help pioneer a brand of freewheeling street poetry that celebrates that often impoverished, violent, profligate lifestyle to become a wealthy celebrity businessman. He’s sold 30 million albums, is worth $150 million, co-owns the New Jersey Nets, has co-produced a Broadway musical and has a varied business empire that includes recording companies, nightclubs and clothing lines. And, of course, there’s his marriage to Knowles, a certified superstar (and babe) in her own right. All this, and he’s sold more No. 1 albums than Elvis. O For more information, call 954-835-7469 or visit bankatlanticcenter.com.

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A Guide to Personal growth

that’slife 8

8 relations8 parents 8 destinations

Eyes Wide Shut

Might As Well Face It You’re Addicted To

By Emily J. Minor

ichard Loebl, a licensed clinical social worker who is director of the Relationship Center of South Florida in Boca Raton, says he sees it almost every day. And usually it goes something like this: The man sitting in Loebl’s office has been watching pornography, perhaps a lot of it, often on the Internet. The woman sitting next to him has found out, somehow. Maybe the guy didn’t electronically clear his computer history. Maybe she got up, rather late into the night, and surprised him as he sat in front of the screen.

Whatever the set-up, they’re staring it’s not because things are ticking plaintively at Loebl and in a bit of a along beautifully. There’s a disconcrisis and he’s there to help them nect. And it’s causing distress. climb out. “Almost always, when this is a problem in the relationship, it’s a barometer If they can. for what’s going on in the relationIn a relationship, the use of pornog- ship,” Loebl says. “There are other raphy by one partner is often a secret kinds of deeper-level conflict patterns – until it’s not – and then it’s a cry that are characterized by complaining for help. It might mean there’s little and criticizing and defensiveness and sex in the marriage. It might mean shutting down and distancing.” there’s no sex. It might mean there’s good sex, but one partner simply Loebl says that usually when two needs more. Whatever the preamble, people work on the underpinnings of when couples land in Loebl’s office, their relationship, the basics im-

prove. But it’s hard, emotional work. “Generally speaking, I’ve seen many cases when people start to become more understanding and empathetic with each other, more patient and tolerant with each other’s feelings and what they are reacting to, and then usually their sex life gets better,” he says. “It’s not a big mystery.” Nor is the popularity of pornography. According to the Web site techcrunch.com, every second, 29,000 Internet users are watching pornography. Every second, adult Internet users are typing an adult search February 2010

that’s life8 relations word into an online search engine and every second, $3 million is being spent on porn in the United States. About 90 percent of the world’s pornography is created in America – Brazil and the Netherlands are second and third, respectively – and every 40 minutes, a new porn video is being created – easy to do with today’s nifty technology. With these kinds of stats, the honest realization that porn has always been around – remember your dad’s Playboy magazines and the dirty movies you found under the bed when you were a kid? – is complicated by today’s access. “You’re talking about sitting in front of your desk and being able to bring it up on the (Inter)net,” says Dr. Melinda Shoemaker, a psychologist with Associates in Psychological Care in

Boca Raton. “You don’t have to go out and get in your car.”

“And, to me, that’s engaging in a relationship.”

But even with this astounding availability, Shoemaker says she doesn’t think the Web has really increased porn use – or its effect on relationships. After all, before the Web, there were dirty movies, dirty magazines, strip clubs and massage parlors.

Like Loebl, Shoemaker says repairing these relationships is possible, certainly. “If there is a true desire there to mend the relationship, then yes,” she says. “But it has to be there on both parts and it’s a long, hard road.”

Shoemaker, a therapist for more than 20 years, says that in addition to porn addiction, she’s noticed other Web-induced changes in relationships. She finds that many of her clients – and in these cases, it’s usually the women – have created duplicate lives for themselves online. Virtual affairs, really. “They’re having sex online,” Shoemaker says.

Some Christian counselors and Web sites promote this healing through prayer. Other more mainstream sites promote self-hope programs akin to Alcoholics Anonymous. But Loebl and Shoemaker say it’s emotional honesty, respect, love and work that gets couples healthy again. One of the bumps, if you will, in treating the problem today is the dis-

“You’re talking about sitting in front of your desk and being able to bring it up on the (Inter)net. You don’t have to go

out and get in your car.”

-- Dr. Melinda Shoemaker, psychologist with Associates in Psychological Care, Boca Raton

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sension within the treatment industry as to whether sexual addiction exists. Shoemaker thinks it does, and says there’s a fine line, perhaps no line at all, between “compulsivity” and “addiction.” Each means you can’t stop. “Either way, it’s out-of-control behavior,” she explains. People turn to porn for various reasons. For some it’s an escape; for others there’s a high involved. Still others turn to porn because they cannot perform sexually in the bedroom. Dr. Susan Lee, who has a sex therapy practice on Palm Beach, says if you can’t beat them – try joining them. She encourages clients to watch porn with their partners, if they’re at all amenable. Erotic books, photos and movies have been around for a long time for a reason, says Lee. “It’s always been something that people enjoy watching together.” O

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that’s life8 parents

Safety Net

How To Protect Your Kids From Cyberbullies

By Cheryl Kane Heimlich

our daughter gets a text on her cell phone and covers the screen before you can glance at it. Probably just a secret message from her best friend. But what if, instead, it’s something like: “ur ugly. every1 hates u.” It happens more often than you think. In the decade since the Columbine shootings, schools across the United States have stepped up anti-bullying measures in classrooms and on the playground. But after the school bell rings, those lessons don’t always stick. Especially in cyberspace. “The Internet is not just part of kids’ lives, it is their lives,” says Sameer Hinduja, Ph.D., co-director of the Cyberbullying Research Center at Florida Atlantic University. In fact, some 25 percent of students in fifth grade and above say they’ve been bullied or otherwise victimized online, according to a recent study in the Journal of Adolescent Health. Such harassment can take many forms, from rumors and jokes within chat rooms and social networking sites to texts, e-mails and photos sent directly to the victim. In one such study, nearly half the bullied kids said they didn’t even know whom to blame. 46

“Anonymity is a major factor here,” Hinduja explains. “Individuals feel a little freed from their morals, laws and social conventions when their identity is disguised. They can be more cruel and vicious, and they also feel it’s going to be very difficult for them to be identified and sanctioned.” There’s truth in that assumption. Although a child who hits another may fear repercussions from parents or school authorities, it’s easy enough for anyone to hide their identity online. In fact, one of the most infamous examples of cyberbullying is that of 13-year-old Megan Taylor Meier, who committed suicide after being harassed on the MySpace social

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networking site. In that case the bully was not another teen, but a woman whose daughter had once been friends with Meier. Missouri mother Lori Drew, posing as a fictitious 16year-old boy, initially sent the girl friendly messages but then began taunting her with e-mails that the world would be a “better place” without her. Shortly after she received the harassing messages, Meier hanged herself in her bedroom closet. Most parents, of course, are nothing like Lori Drew. In fact, most may not even be looking carefully at what their kids are doing on the computer, let alone peeking at their text messages.

They should be doing both, says Susan Swearer, Ph.D. and co-author of the school-oriented manual Bullying Prevention & Intervention. “We don’t really let kids walk around alone in neighborhoods anymore, but we allow them to have cell phones and e-mail and MySpace and Facebook – which is really allowing other people 24hour access to them,” says Swearer, who also co-directs the Bullying Research Network at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. “I say, invade their privacy. If my kid’s got an email address, I’m going to know her password. Have a Facebook page and be friends with your kid, or tell them they can’t do this. People will

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that’s life8 parents cite privacy laws, and my response is, ‘Who’s paying for it all?’ ” It’s not just computers parents are paying for: Many are buying their kids cell phones at ever-younger ages to ensure they’re always reachable. But now that even the simplest phones feature cameras, e-mail and texting, a rumor or embarrassing photo can spread across a school in seconds.

“I say, invade their privacy. If my kid’s got an e-mail address, I’m going to know her password. Have a Facebook page and

be friends with your kid, or tell them they can’t do this. People will cite privacy laws, and my response is, ‘Who’s paying for it all?’”

– Susan Swearer, Ph.D. and co-author of Bullying Prevention & Intervention.

Which doesn’t necessarily mean parents will hear about it. “Youth are not talking to adults about this because they fear those adults will do something drastic – take away the technology, ban access to MySpace and Facebook, ban the cellphone,” Hinduja explains. Instead, he says, parents concerned about bullying should “get involved in their child’s online experience. Start by asking what sites they visit. Then ask more probing questions, like, ‘Have you ever received a text message that made you upset? What did you do?’” Patti Kelley Criswell, author of the American Girl handbook Stand Up for Yourself & Your Friends, says adults should think carefully about what they allow their kids to do online. “Parents are ignoring the age requirements on social networking sites, and I think that’s inappropriate,” Criswell says. “Kids are not wired for this kind of thing. They don’t have the impulse control.”

And girls, while less likely to physically harass others, can be the worst offenders when it comes to verbal and cyberbullying. In fact, Criswell’s book is part of a recent initiative by American Girl, whose 2009 “Girl of the Year” doll, Chrissa, battled bullies in her tiein novels and HBO movie. “Boys tend not to harass the same person endlessly; they just say something mean and then it’s done,” Criswell says. “But with girls it can be more long term, more emotionally cunning.” Online or off, kids today get picked on for the same reasons they always have – usually “physical appearance or the way they behave,” says Barbara

Berger, a Deerfield Beach licensed clinical social worker. “It might be their weight, or some nerdy behavior that sets the child apart. And when they can’t handle the teasing, that makes it even worse.” And even if your child is neither bully nor victim, here’s something else to consider: Despite antibullying messages being taught in school, the prevalence of disrespectful behavior in popular culture may be teaching kids something entirely different. In fact, the same parents who tell their children to treat each other kindly may also allow them to watch reality shows filled with screaming people, sitcoms featuring constant put-downs and cold-hearted

“advice” from American Idol’s Simon Cowell. Something to think about the next time you’re standing in the checkout line with your kids, chuckling at tabloid photos of celebs caught in unflattering poses. “We give these kids mean lessons on a regular basis, and then we’re surprised by what happens,” Criswell says. “When parents watch what their kids are watching with a critical eye, and try to keep track of how many not-OK things are going on, they will be surprised. But we can teach our kids to be selfdirected,” she says. “We can raise a free thinker. This cultural stuff is so pervasive, but we can say early on, ‘What do you think of this?’” O February 2010

that’s life8 destinations

Philadelphia Freedom At The Four Seasons Hotel It’s Love, American Style

By Roberta Sandler

hiladelphia, Pa. may be the City of Brotherly Love, but the Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia is a sanctuary for amore of the romantic kind. And while it’s an idyllic retreat for all seasons, it makes for an especially indulgent Valentine’s Day getaway. Annually for the past 25 years, the Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia has won the AAA Five Diamond Award and the Forbes Travel Guide Four Star Award. The posh destination has been a local landmark since opening in 1983 and with 364 guestrooms, including 96 suites, it provides a dreamy setting, in part for its 50

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location on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia’s version of Paris’s Champs-Élysées. The hotel overlooks the beautiful Swann Fountain (Fountain of Three Rivers) and offers fabulous views of historic buildings, while its Ushaped design encompasses columns, balconies, recessed windows and niches, creating a stunning and imposing architectural statement. But it’s the lobby that sets the tone for lovers, with contemporary-classic furnishings, inspired by the Federal period, that exude an ambiance of elegance and relaxation. It resem-

bles a comfortable living room, with couches, oversized chairs and tables to socialize, and lots of windows overlooking the hotel’s courtyard. Natural lighting plays up the color palette – blues, reds, yellows and browns – which permeates graceful upholstered furniture and patterned area rugs set upon rose-tinted marble floors. Splashes of vibrant color emanate from lavish flower arrangements displayed around the lobby. Walk a few steps to the upper lobby and you’ll find Fountain Restaurant, an American restaurant with a French

that’s life8 destinations

“

”

influence. In Philadelphia, Fountain Restaurant is a “special occasion” place for couples, not only for its supremely romantic ambiance, but because it delivers an exceptional culinary experience. In Zagat’s 2009 survey, Fountain Restaurant was rated the best in Philadelphia for its food, service and decor.

chairs that unite elegance with comfort. A refrigerated bar, lush terry bathrobes, flat-screen high-definition TVs, marble bathrooms and twice-daily housekeeping service raise the comfort quotient. You can take tranquility to a new high by arranging for a massage or spa service in the privacy of your guestroom.

Inside the eatery, walls are covered with rich dark paneling, the perfect canvas for crystal chandeliers, goldtoned chairs, booths and tablecloths, candle-lit place settings and lush floral displays. It’s upscale-attentive dining, so jackets are required. Fountain Restaurant’s Miami-born Executive Chef Rafael Gonzalez was formerly with the Four Seasons Hotel Vancouver and uses his French techniques to create simple dishes that allow high-quality ingredients to shine.

Or, perhaps you’d rather go to The Spa, a pampering palace where couples go to relax and rejuvenate (ask about Valentine’s Day spa packages). You’ll find a host of tantalizing treatments here, such as the Philadelphia Freedom Hot Towel Infusion Massage, the Four Seasons Silver Shimmer Facial, the Peppermint Body Wrap and a Lemongrass and Bamboo Exfoliant Scrub; other treatments include an array of gentleman’s facials.

For pre-dinner cocktails, try the hotel’s Swann Lounge, a sophisticated gathering place for drinks. The Swann Cafe offers informal dining, a great Sunday brunch and a delightful tradition – afternoon tea – which is available Monday through Saturday from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. If it’s a truly intimate dining experience you seek, Fountain Restaurant’s The Logan Room offers a private space that serves just 14. Romance continues inside the fountain-view, deluxe and superior guestrooms where soft greens, yellows or corals form a backdrop for contemporary Federal-style furniture and sitting areas with lounge or reading 52

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When you’re ready to venture out of the hotel, it’s close to historical attractions, public gardens and cultural and entertainment venues. Rittenhouse Square, with its gazebo and outdoor cafes, is a romantic place for an evening stroll. Or cozy up during a horse-and-carriage tour offered daily by Philadelphia Trolley Works. Cupid himself couldn’t have suggested a more romantic getaway. O

contact Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia is located at One Logan Square in Philadelphia, Pa. For more information, call 215-963-1500 or visit fourseasons.com/philadelphia/.

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T h e B o c a R at o n Ob s e r v e r

Photo courtesy of BRAVO

Money o ve L Can Buy You Bravo TV’s Millionaire Matchmaker Patti Stanger Plays Cupid – And Finds Her Own Prince Charming

reathless and as busy as the wealthy people she matches with “beautiful and intelligent” partners, Patti Stanger, former South Florida resident and host/producer of Bravo TV’s addictive Tuesday night reality show The Millionaire Matchmaker is fast becoming an international brand. In addition to the program spawned by the University of Miami graduate’s elite, decade-old dating service, Millionaire’s Club International, she’s got a radio show, P.S. I Love You and recently was named the spokesperson for 1-800-FLOWERS. Oh and in her spare time, the dynamo will be in town February 20th at Miami Beach’s Books &

Books, where she’ll promote the paperback version of her Simon & Schuster book, Become Your Own Matchmaker: 8 Easy Steps for At-

By Kate Townsend

tracting Your Perfect Mate. Six hours later she’ll head a few blocks east to Set Nightclub, where she’ll launch her new dating Web site, PS XOXO, a joint venture with the owner of JDate.com. She’s also in the midst of taping the third season of her show, and next year she’ll launch a girls’ clothing line. Oy vey.

“Doing a show and handling different jobs is impossible,” admits the fast-talking Stanger, 48, who now is off the market, engaged to real estate executive and former client Andy Friedman, 52. “I have to depend on others, and I am constantly on my BlackBerry.” february 2010

Photo courtesy of BRAVO

T h e B o c a R at o n Ob s e r v e r

Photos courtesy of BRAVO

‘‘

My mom was a matchmaker, and I remember fixing up someone when I was in the seventh grade. It is in my blood.

STANGER DANGER If Stanger could bottle that energy she’d earn a fortune. Wait – she probably already does. The Los Angeles resident’s Millionaire’s Club International dating service, which matches wealthy men with suitable partners, has been constantly expanding into countries such as Canada and England. Soon she’ll tackle Asia. As the former Director of Marketing for Great Expectations, the largest and oldest dating service in the United States, the third-generation matchmaker says she’s introduced thousands of couples, and that her company has a 99 percent success rate. “My mom was a matchmaker and I remember fixing up someone when I was in the seventh grade,” she says with a laugh. “It’s in my blood.” Stanger started her company in 2000 because she felt successful single men needed an exclusive and private club where they could meet the right kind of women. “I didn’t think this segment of busy men had time to look for a relationship and were not meeting the kind of women they thought they should be,” says Stanger. “They had dreams of finding bright, beautiful and successful mates. I felt they needed a service where they could meet these kinds of women in a relaxing, discreet and confidential manner.” Her thought process: Since Stanger

believed the odds of beautiful women joining a dating service were slim as a celery stick, she decided to recruit them herself. To find appropriate candidates, she scoured the world via advertisements, magazine articles, dating scouts and TV appearances. Turned out, it was a good idea. Today Stanger averages anywhere from 10,000 to 30,000 women (who get the chance to land millionaires) from which her clients may choose. The L.A.-based club caters to members on every continent who are willing to shell out $25,000 plus membership fees – and are willing to change to find a mate (but more on that later). She runs her service with an iron fist and members must stick to her rules, especially this one: No sex on the first date – or at all – unless the couple is in an exclusive, committed monogamous relationship. Stanger knows what men and women want from personal experience living for several decades as a saucy single partying in Manhattan, Miami Beach, Las Vegas and Los Angeles. She believes her modern approach to dating sets her club apart from similar ventures. When Stanger takes on a client, she takes them on from head to toe. We’re talking makeover city. “In addition to offering a free membership to women, the club works closely with leading psychologists, relationship counselors, date coaches, hypnotherapists and image consultants,”

Stanger explains. “We also have a batch of top-notch personal trainers and hair stylists.” Her club works individually with clients, coaching them through every stage of the dating game – from the initial meeting through the marriage proposal. Quick and blunt, she can be brutal. She’ll demand a client lose 15 pounds, order curly-haired women to use flat-irons and insist that women over 45 are “too old” and overweight women are “impossible situations.” Such talk has earned her the nickname, The Simon Cowell of Dating. “I am not paid to hide my true feelings,” she deadpans. The daily doings of her business make great fodder for her TV show, which follows Stanger and her staff through the coaching, transforming and matching of wealthy clients with dates hand-selected by Stanger (she chooses them based on beauty and intelligence). This season, Stanger will add gay clients to the mix. Plus, clients from the past will come back to haunt her. For example, female millionaire client Shauna Raisch, 42, caused a stir last season after an unpleasant exchange with Stanger; this month she returns, agreeing to take the matchmaker’s advice and date someone more age appropriate. “I am contained on TV,” Stanger says. “I do the show to help others. I enjoy kicking their ass.” february 2010

While her business and celebrity flourished, Stanger had just about given up on finding her own Mr. Right. Then six years ago, she met former client Andy Friedman. Stanger had just ended a relationship with a guy who, while successful and educated, turned out to be bad news. “We had a good romance until I found out he was bipolar and had not told me,” says Stanger. “He was a Wharton School of Finance graduate but his parents took care of him. He had money from them but never made his own.”

Patti Stanger with Fiance Andy Friedman

‘‘

(The relationship) works because we get it about each other. He is not high maintenance and does not require a lot of attention from me which is good.

DATE WITH DESTINY The business-savvy, ball-busting Cupid was born in Newark, N.J. Raised in Short Hills, Stanger’s father Phil owned a dress company; her mom Rhoda was a housewife and matchmaker. Stanger attended high school in Manhattan, moved to South Florida to attend college in Miami and in 1983 returned to Manhattan to work in fashion for companies including Union Bay Sportswear, Jou Jou Jeans, Cherokee and Saks Fifth Ave., selling clothing to major sales reps. The well-dressed matchmaker believes fashion was a good background for her dating businesses.

‘‘

Still, she missed South Florida, where her mother lives in Sunny Isles, so she came back and held various jobs, including a stint at her family’s bagel shop. From 1992 through 1996, she worked for Boca Raton-based Great Expectations. “I am definitely a Florida girl,” says Stanger, who enjoys dining at Joe’s

T h e B o c a R at o n Ob s e r v e r

Stone Crab and Prime 112 in South Beach. “I love the flatness of Florida, the ocean, swimming, weather, shopping, clothes and the overall feeling of freedom. I want to think of Florida as my home, and I intend to buy a place there so I can always come back.” Still, in 1997 Stanger relocated to California to pursue her dating-service business. It was there she knew she’d find millionaires “all over the place” who she believed were “messed up” in their values, wants and needs. She launched her service in 2000, and it took off in 2001 when she befriended a guy who needed a girl. It grew from there. She’s served myriad romantically challenged clients, including one wealthy man who’d been engaged three times by age 60 but never married. “He’s a zillionaire who never listened to me,” she recalls. “His mother lives in Palm Beach and cried when none of his relationships worked out. He was a pain in the ass, and I took his mon-

She and Friedman became best friends before ever dating. They hit it off romantically because they already knew each other and respected one another’s issues, Stanger says. They share common interests, such as theater, cultural happenings, movies, music, travel and cooking. They both love to shop. He enjoys sailing on weekends, and she has found she can share that passion. But he also loves scuba diving – something she’s terrified to try. “I am working on it,” she promises. “(The relationship) works because we get it about each other,” Stanger says. “He is not high maintenance and does not require a lot of attention from me which is good.” Friedman popped the question while the pair was vacationing in Maui. It was May 31st, Stanger’s birthday. They have yet to set a wedding date, she says, because they’ve both been busy working, enjoying themselves and making money. “Andy is a mountain boy and I am a condo-on-the-ocean girl,” she says. “We will work out a wedding date. In the meantime, I am busy with my projects and planning on having Millionaire’s Clubs in every country of the world!” O

Photo courtesy of BRAVO

ey to help him. But he needed to want to help himself.”

Photos courtesy of BRAVO

Clockwise: Stanger and a client on her TV show, The Millionaire Matchmaker; Stanger smiles for the camera; Stanger with office manager Destin Jude Pfaff; Stanger gives advice

february 2010

the

Date Escape 52 Romantic Outings That Won’t Break The Bank

ere we are in 2010 and, the way things are going, “frugal” is no longer a dirty word. Honest. So we’ve put together a list of 52 fabulous South Florida adventures (one for every weekend of the year) that will not break your budget (some are even free!). Believe us, we’ve included all the discounts we could possibly muster. And while a few dates are just a tiny bit pricey, even these are deals — and we think you’re worth a splurge every now and then. Our big tip about dating this year is this: Be adventurous. A movie and snacks at the cinema can run you $40, so we’re offering alternatives that are outside the popcorn box. All you have to do is keep an open mind and you’re good to go. You’ll be so busy changing up your routine — when’s the last time you woke at the crack of dawn and explored a flea market? — you just might fall in love. Again.

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By Marissa Hicken and Emily J. Minor

GO FISH

Fishing isn’t just a card game, you know. Fishing is a real thing that provides real fun and companionship. And the Deerfield Beach Pier is a picture-perfect place for this. The pier is open 24 hours and the cost to cast a line is just $4 per person. (Don’t forget about a license, though.) If you just want to take a romantic stroll, it’s even more of a bargain: $1 per person for sightseeing, and there’s metered parking at the beach. Here you can watch the sun rise and spot manatees, stingrays and manta rays. There are benches along the pier and a pavilion at the end for added relaxation. Afterwards, take a stroll to the nearby ice cream shops, restaurants and bars. For more information, call 954-480-4433 or visit deerfield-beach.com.

Deerfield Beach Pier

February 2010

GARLIC FEST

Mmmm. We’re getting hungry just thinking about this outing. And what’s sexier than feeding each other hot bread dipped in yummy garlic butter? The Delray Beach Garlic Fest offers food, vendors and top-notch musical acts. All for a price even a frugal couple can love. “The deal on this is you get to see national acts for $10,” says Nancy Stewart, the festival’s executive director. And proceeds help support local charities — everything from a performing arts school to youth baseball leagues. On February 12th, the top group is Everclear. February 13th, it’s The Wailers. There are also cook-offs, wine booths and plenty of green space to plop a blanket with your honey. One little word of advice: Bring breath mints. For more information, call 561-279-0907 or visit dbgarlicfest.com.

HOP ON

You know those bikes in the garage? The ones you haven’t used since last spring? Throw them in the trunk and drive yourselves to Palm Beach, dahling. But don’t dawdle at the famous shops and restaurants. We want you to hop on the Palm Beach Lake Trail. This is 8 miles – from the north bridge to the inlet and back – of F-U-N. And by fun, we mean gawking. See how the other half lives. Sneak peeks into their back yards as you pedal along (just don’t get arrested for peeping). Don’t have a bike of your own? The Palm Beach Bicycle Trail Shop might be on the island, but these folks are down-to-earth and friendly. No muss, no fuss, no deposit. Just $15 an hour – about the time it takes to get there and back. For more information, call 561-659-4583 or visit palmbeachbicycle.com.

PUT IT IN PARK

Can you recall the last time you had a good love match with your partner? We mean, on the courts. Get out and get some exercise – and have some old-fashioned fun – at Patch Reef Park in Boca Raton. There’s a 1.8-mile fitness trail with exercise stations, a picnic pavilion and tennis center. And no, you don’t have to serve like Serena Williams in these parts. There are 16 hard courts, one pro court, a hitting wall and a concession area. The price for Palm Beach County residents is $4.50 for 1.5 hours and $5.75 for nonresidents. This park is also a fab place for bird watching, so grab your handy little reference book – you know, the one you’ve never used – and go. For more information, call 561-367-7035 or visit ci.boca-raton.fl.us/rec/parks/patchreef.shtm. 62

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Gulfstream Park

THINK YOU CAN

SLOW DOWN

GAME NIGHT

We can, can you? Canoe, we mean. This is addictive – do it once and you’ll want to do it again and again. Now that’s a good date, right? The Loxahatchee River is one of Florida’s wild and scenic rivers, and it’s a beauty. Pack a lunch and head to Canoe Outfitters of Florida at Riverbend County Park in Jupiter. The shortest trip is to Trapper Nelson’s camp five miles down the driver. Here’s where you can tie up – we mean the canoe – and enjoy your lunch. Take a walk and read about wild Trapper Nelson who once lived here. Then, paddle back for those same five miles. You’ll see birds, otters, fish, maybe even an alligator. But be prepared to do some work. Together. Dragging the canoe over fallen trees is sometimes a joint adventure. One canoe costs $25. For more information, call 561-746-7053 or visit canoeskayaksflorida.com/index.php.

Tantric sex? Say what? Is that what Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson use to keep their marriage exciting? (That’s what we’ve read in some pretty respectable tabloids.) Tantric sex is about feeling every moment of the sexual experience, in all the parts of the body. It’s about the loveliness going on for hours. And hours. And Dr. Sally Valentine (that really is her name), a Boca Raton sex therapist, is offering something very special for the weekend before Valentine’s Day. A seminar. On tantric sex! We think you two are definitely worth it. Valentine says her session will ignite “sex, passion and sacred love” and we tend to believe her. The sessions run February 12th from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. and February 13th from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. At $445, it’s pricey, we know. But if you read about the seminar in The Boca Raton Observer, she’ll knock $55 off the weekend price. Anything for you, dear readers. For more information, call 561-391-3305 or visit valentinecounsel.com.

We’re all about honesty – how can you have a romantic night without it? – so we have to tell you up front. We think game night might be a girlie thing. Still, there’s something special about kicking some Monopoly butt with the one you love. So, make it happen. Order in – maybe Chinese or a favorite pizza with fattening toppings – get out the board game and have a wild old time. We promise some emotion – maybe a little anger, maybe a little mirth – as you round the board, buying up properties, charging ridiculous rents. Not a fan of Monopoly? We understand. How about Battleship? All that sinking and blowing things up might be just what he needs to get in the mood. For inspiration, visit boardgames.com.

Photo by Dave Deborah Thatcher

Canoe Outfitters of Florida at Riverbend County Park

Photo by Dave Deborah Thatcher

Gulfstream Park

Clematis By Night

JUST BEACHY

There is, perhaps, nothing more romantic than an evening at the beach with the one you love, and that’s why we think a picnic basket, a bottle (or two) of sparkling water and a cooperating weather forecast are all good things for a date at Gulfstream Park. Oh, yeah. Don’t forget a beach blanket, but we’ll let you take a pass on the bingo. The oceanfront park has parking right across the street, so it’s easy access. You can stroll the beach at sunset. Yes, we know the sun sets to the west, but the sky to the east is still beautiful. And it’s usually peppered with only a few loyal walkers this time of night, so the solitude is absolutely yummy. For more information, call 561-966-6600 or visit co.palm-beach.fl.us/parks/locations/gulfstream.htm.

TREASURE HUNT

It’s always fun to dress your nest – together. Why not shop where all the designers go for their chi-chi Palm Beach clients? Or at least, window shop. Antique Row has been written up in all the major architecture and design magazines, and for good reason. This strip of shops just south of downtown West Palm Beach is a mile-long stretch of 30 antique stores, four restaurants and several specialty shops. Parking is free, either on the street or in the lot. And it’s fun to see all the nifty things these people found as they scoured the earth. Maybe you’ll find a nice pair of vintage earrings. Or a glass pitcher for Thanksgiving dinners to come. Or a 1920s Art Deco armchair by Leleu. Whatever that is. For more information, visit westpalmbeachantiques.com.

PARTY ON

Remember when your mom and dad had “card club” back in the 1950s and everyone brought a little something? Here’s what we suggest for the new and improved version of “card club:” Jazz up your potluck

Clematis By Night

party with your good china, good friends and good recipes that you’ve never

tried before. We know it’s not exactly date night, with everyone invading your house and all. But it’s still a couple’s thing, and that’s better than a girl’s night out. (From a romance standpoint, anyway.) The key for this night is both delegation of duties and simplicity. Everyone brings something that requires nothing more than a quick heat-up in the oven. And, better yet, bring your plastic containers for leftovers. The next night you and your honey can, you know, then feast in bed without having to cook or do dishes. For ideas, visit entertaining.about.com/cs/dinnerparties/a/potluckparties.htm.

CLEMATIS BY NIGHT

We love free! Who doesn’t love free? Free is awesome! And that’s why we love Clematis By Night in downtown West Palm Beach. Every Thursday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., the city throws a party at Centennial Square – with entertainment and vendor booths – gratis! Parking is available on the street, and you don’t have to feed the meter past 7 p.m. There’s a different band every month and the beauty of this event is you can pack a dinner, bring folding chairs and enjoy music – and people-watching – to your heart’s content. Make sure you check out the city’s big renovation project along the waterfront. Indeed, by the time you get there, it might even be done. For more information, call 561-822-1515 or visit clematisbynight.net.

DRIVE ON IN

There are only a few left, you know. Those old theaters where you pack up the car with snacks and see a new release. And the Trail Drive-in in Lake Worth is right here in our back yard. The best things about the drive-in are the prices – it’s $6 per adult to see a major film here – and you can bring your own snacks. Stock up on popcorn, Twizzlers and maybe some choco-

HORSE AROUND

Sometimes the stuff we’ve already paid for is the best — and the most forgotten — and that’s the case with so many of our public parks. Tradewinds Park in Coconut Creek is full of opportunity for inexpensive fun. And we think that’s a turn-on. The park offers guided trail rides ($30 per person) and pony rides ($2 per ride or $6 for four rides) every Saturday and Sunday. Tradewinds also offers public farm tours ($6 a person) on the third weekend of every month, where you can get personal with chickens, pigs, goats and cows. Or take a steam-train ride on Saturdays and Sundays for just $1 per ride. Butterfly World is here, too, with its colorful winged residents and beautiful rose gardens. Tickets are $24.95 but there’s a $3 discount coupon on the park’s Web site. For more information about Tradewinds Park, call 954-968-3880 or visit broward.org/parks/ tw.htm. For more information about Butterfly World, call 954-977-4400 or visit butterflyworld.com.

Tradewinds Park Trail Ride

13 February 2010

Everglades National Park

late nibble things and head on out. The Trail Drive-in has two screens and shows the bigger draw on the larger screen. Talk about a great place to see a scary movie! And we like this outing for the spring season when the weather is warm and the sunsets can be extra pretty. For more information, call 561-9654518 or visit drive-ins.com/theater/fltskyd.

GET INSPIRED

The Mounts Botanical Garden in West Palm Beach is the county’s oldest and largest public garden. We’re talking major inspiration here. Need something to plant in the front of the house? Need something for the pots in the back? The master gardeners here know what to plant and where. And their suggestions won’t drive up irrigation fees. There are also special classes, but we suggest you two start with an afternoon stroll. And you might want to carry along pen and paper to jot down plant names. The gardens took quite a hit from the spate of hurricanes, but everything has grown back beautifully. There are tropical and subtropical plants from six continents all growing on 14 lush acres. And guess what? The birds and the butterflies have returned. There’s a suggested donation of $5 at the gate. For more information, call 561-233-1757 or visit mounts.org.

DO GOOD

There’s something about doing nice things for others that gets the coziness going, and we’re here to inform you that April is National Volunteer Month. So may we suggest choosing a favorite cause and helping out? Maybe it’s the American Red Cross you’d like to help, or your church or synagogue or kid’s school. Whatever the destination, volunteering is a good way to connect to each other – and to your community. And your volunteerism doesn’t have to be a one-time thing. The Palm Beach Literacy Coalition in Delray Beach always needs volunteers for its ongoing mentoring program. Make volunteering a new way of life for the both of you. For more information, call 800-273-1030 or visit pbcliteracy.org. For more volunteer opportunities, visit volunteermatch.org. 64

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COMMUNE WITH NATURE

There are those of us here in South Florida — perhaps transplants from elsewhere — who might not be convinced about this great state’s natural beauty. Well, pack a lunch and take a romantic drive through the Everglades and you’ll be a convert. The 80-mile drive might be along a route that’s only 25 feet above sea level, but flat can be good. Very, very good. You’ll wind through pinewoods, sawgrass and tropical hardwood hammocks into mangrove swamps and coastal prairies. This drive begins at the entrance of Everglades National Park in Homestead. Park entrance for one car is $10. For more information, call 305-242-7700 or visit nps.gov/EVER/index.htm.

CHECK IT OUT Here’s a venue that’s super underappreciated: The local public

library. The city and county library systems in South Florida are amazing and

the two of you sharing a book – well, we suggest you check out two copies – is a good way to get on the same wavelength. (And you know what that leads to.) With everything that’s going on these days – Movies on Demand, texting, e-mailing, social networking – sometimes the old-fashioned favorites are bypassed. Curl up every night for a week or so, grab your copy of the same book and chuckle and cry together. Sure, one person’s going to read more quickly than the other, but that can lead to razzing which can lead to tickling which can lead to. Umm. You know. And the top five fiction novels for 2009 will be more easily available now that’s it’s 2010. Here they are, according to The New York Times: Both Ways Is the Only Way I Want It; Chronic City; A Gate at the Stairs; Half-Broke Horses and A Short History of Women. For more information, visit bocalibrary.org; delraylibrary.org.

GET OUT One of the most beautiful places to enjoy the outdoors is

Morikami Museum & Japanese Gardens in Delray Beach. The Morikami has

been a center for Japanese arts and culture in South Florida since 1977 and offers six diverse gardens inspired by different historical periods and styles. It’s really quite magical. The gardens are open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday and admission is $12 for adults. There aren’t any special offers right now – although there are plenty of special events – but even the everyday price doesn’t break the budget. Here, you can experience traditional and contemporary Japanese culture through worldclass exhibits, varied educational programs and seasonal events, bonsai displays, pan-Asian cuisine and a distinctive museum store. For more information, call 561-4950233 or visit morikami.org.

MARKET MANIA

Sometimes being just plain nosey is fun and that’s why we think it would be great to go house shopping. Even if you’re not in the market for a new house. You know that place down the street? The one with the brick walkway and the big picture window in the front? When there’s an “open house today” sign outside adorned with balloons, walk down there and take a gander. They don’t need to know your intentions. Choose a pricey neighborhood, tool around and stop and take a look. And we’re talking inside. Check out the cedar closets. The gazebo around the pool. The view from the master suite. Daydreaming is good, and you can find some great ideas to spruce up your own place. You can find open houses listed at many online Web sites. Our favorite? Openhouses.com. Just plug in your zip code – or the zip code you’d like to nose around in – and a list will pop up.

ZONE OUT

It used to be, years ago when you met up north, that the two of you could go ice skating for hours. No cold toes. No tired ankles. Just hour after hour of twirling on the ice. We know this is South Florida, but we also know there are some options here for ice skating. The Palm Beach SkateZone Ice and Inline Center is our No. 1 choice. “There are some coupons out there,” says representative Brianna Robertson. “I’ve seen some two-forones.” And we love two-for-ones. Even without a coupon, though, this is one date that will not break the bank. It costs $8 for each person to get in the door and another $3 if you want to rent skates – which we think might be a good idea. For information, call 561963-5900 or visit pbskatezone.com.

BARGAIN SHOP

Maybe it’s an old manual typewriter you want – to set on the old wooden desk the two of you refinished together. Maybe you need new (old) lawn furniture. Or a giant picture frame for that painting you splurged on by your favorite local artist. Whatever the intentions, a flea market is fun and different. Be careful when researching this outing on the Internet. Many of these old flea markets have shut down. But our favorite is still the weekend market – every Saturday and Sunday – at Lake Worth High School. This is an early-bird adventure running from 5 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day. So we like the idea of an intimate breakfast at home, followed by bargain hunting, then an early-afternoon nap. The rest is up to you. For more information, call 561-439-1539.

MEAL TIME

Eating out is fun. Everyone has to eat. But it can get expensive. That’s why we like the Web site restaurant.com. It’s got deals that are pretty darn good and the restaurants are top-

notch. We’re talking the Leopard Lounge at the Chesterfield Hotel or Bice Ristorante on Palm Beach, Dolce Amore Cafe in Delray Beach, The Melting Pot at various locations. (Feed each other. It’s sexy.) This Web site offers deals that can be used with dinners at these places. (Just plug in a zip code and the opportunities abound.) Most of them offer $25 coupons for $10. Also, check out bargainist.com/deals/stores/restaurantcom/.

GET PAMPERED

We like the idea of staying in and pampering each other. First, we’re talking a bubble bath – for two, of course – with a bottle of modestly priced Prosecco. (We prefer Cavit Prosecco Lunetta, which sells for about $12 a bottle.) This might be a good time for a bottle of massage oil that you can use in the tub. Then, pat each other dry – we’re not getting any more specific than that, OK? – and snuggle down for some erotic poetry. Find poetry excerpts online at steamyeroticpoetry.com.

PIECE OF WORK

There’s something about making beautiful things together that’s both satisfying and connective, and we think that can pertain to a home project. What? A home project can be fun? And sexy? Well, we think so (have you not seen some of the hot handymen on HGTV?). There’s nothing like making yourself feel good about yourself and your surroundings, which makes you feel attractive, which... Well. You understand. So, we’d like you to choose something in your house that you’ve been meaning to do. Maybe the kitchen ceiling needs a paint job. Maybe the back porch needs a major re-do, from new screens to a good scrubbing. Maybe that old piece of furniture you bought during last month’s date needs new life. Whatever the project, put on your work clothes and get to it. For inspiration, visit hgtv.com or diynetwork.com.

25 Lake Worth Street Painting Festival

PAINT THE TOWN

There aren’t too many places in these parts where you can stroll down the street — may we suggest arm in arm? — and watch local and national artists turn the city streets into an amazing canvas. But that’s what happens every year at the 16th Annual Lake Worth Street Painting Festival in downtown Lake Worth, with this year’s event taking place February 20th and 21st from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. There’s no admittance fee to watch the more than 400 artists turn this place into an outdoor museum. Plus, there’s constant action — everything from bands and music to kids activities. We think you’ll like getting out and about for just the cost of gas. For more information, call 561-582-4401 or visit streetpaintingfestivalinc.org.

Quack Up

Sure, this next thing is kind of dorky. But sometimes it’s good to pretend you’re on vacation. So we’re asking you to sign up for a tour on the Diva Duck. It’s half-boat, half-parade float, rumbling around the city of West Palm Beach with those ridiculous duck-call whistles. And then, magically, the ol’ Diva floats into the water and there you are, getting a guided tour of all the mansions along the coast of Palm Beach. The tour is $25 per person, but there’s always an online discount coupon for $3. And if you’re a Florida resident, they’ll knock $5 off the asking price. Whose homes do you float by, exactly? “We don’t tell that ahead of time,” says Diva Duck Owner Judy Davis. “But they are names you will recognize.” The boat leaves from CityPlace (near Panera Bread) when the tide is high, so you have to check online for times. For more information, call 561844-4188 or visit divaduck.com.

February 2009

of May, there are six green markets scattered throughout Palm Beach County – in Delray Beach, Boca Raton, Lake Worth, West Palm Beach, Jupiter and Palm Beach Gardens – and this is a perfect place to buy a cup of coffee and perhaps a batch of locally grown romaine. (For the dinner the two of you will be making that night.) Some of the green markets sell just food, plants and flowers that are grown in our parts. Others – like the one in Palm Beach Gardens – have vendors that sell their crafts. Need a cloth pocket in which to microwave your potato? This might be your lucky day. For more information, visit pbcgov.com/coopext/ag_dev/greenmarket.htm.

Roger Dean Stadium

BATTER UP

Spring in Florida means the impatiens — those pretty little flowers you planted in cooler climes — are wilting. It means the air conditioner is about to kick back on. It means the spare bedroom is still occupied St. Louis Cardinals’ with northern visitors. But it also Spring Training means baseball. And some free baseball. Spring Training games start the first of March at Roger Dean Stadium in Jupiter. But we’ve got a tip. Pitchers and catchers start working out in mid-February. For about three weeks, there are no ticket-takers, no gates, no nothing. Just get up and get going, early. These guys aren’t around much past lunchtime. The Florida Marlins and St. Louis Cardinals train here — don’t forget the peanuts and popcorn. For more information, call 561-630-1848 or visit rogerdeanstadium.com.

BACK IN TIME

GET GREEN

Sure Vizcaya Museum and Gardens has been around since 1916, but have you ever been there? It’s worth the drive south. For $15 each, the two of you can stroll the grounds of this extraordinary Miami estate and a guided tour of the first floor of the house is free. Since this is a picturesque place, it’s possible you’ll see a bride and groom, or two or four, or – perhaps better yet – a Quinceañera getting her pictures taken. The estate was built by Chicago industrialist James Deering in the early 1900s and the main house was inspired, it’s said, by Italian Renaissance architecture. We think it still fits the bill today. But it’s the gardens we find most romantic. Ten acres of formal gardens through which the two of you must stroll, hand in hand. The Vizcaya Cafe offers sandwiches, salads, etc. For more information, call 305-250-9133 or visit vizcayamuseum.org.

We know it’s nice to sleep past 9 a.m. on weekends, but this is a get-up-and-go adventure. The sleeping can come later. Until the first

T h e B o c a R at o n Ob s e r v e r

UP AND AWAY

This spring might be a good time to get back to the roots of your youth. And we’re pretty sure you flew a kite or two in your younger days (if not, you’ve missed out). In some parts of the world, kite-flying is a competitive endeavor based on science and aerodynamics. But at Skyward Kites in Miami Beach’s Haulover Park, the competition is as simple as “you made a kite fly, you get a prize.” Its 17th annual kite-flying contest on February 21st is a great family day, but it’s a great time for the two of you, too. (Especially if the kids are elsewhere.) There’s no entry fee. No charge for parking. Just pack a lunch, grab a blanket and go fly a kite. If you miss the festival or don’t want to deal with crowds, visit this place any other day of the week. Kites sell from $5 to $5,000 (really) or you can bring your own. For more information, call 305-893-0906 or visit skywardkites.com.

CHILL OUT

We’ve had some cold spells this winter, that’s for sure. But when it warms up we’ll miss it. If you’re looking to chill out with your honey, why not try a professional hockey game? The Florida Panthers play at the BankAtlantic Center in Fort Lauderdale, where you can bundle up and snuggle with the one you love. And the Panthers are always offering some kind of special. We like this one: two upper-level tickets, two soft drinks, two arena pizzas and free parking – all for $50. Hockey season runs through mid-April and you can check out this and other deals online like 50 percent off Monday game nights. For more information, call 954-835-PUCK or visit ticketmaster.com.

WINE AND DINE

We can’t think of a more relaxing and comfortable setting in which to unwind with your loved one (in public, we mean). While strolling through Mizner Park in Boca Raton, stop by ZED451. The restaurant offers a feast for the eyes and the palate. Inside, you’re enveloped in artful design and ambient lighting and there’s a menu to die for. Sounds pricey, we know. But the eatery offers nightly Happy Hour deals from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. which include $4.51 well drinks, house wines and draft beers. While at one of the bars – we particularly enjoy the bar outside – check out the Cravings Menu of small plate offerings (with small prices) such as Shrimp Samosas and crispy lump crab sliders. For more information, call 561-393-3451 or visit zed451.com.

Zed451’s Shrimp Samosas

Zed451’s crab cake slider

Vic & Angelo’s

BE ITALIAN

Delray Beach’s trendy Atlantic Avenue is a great place to stroll with your beau (and window shopping and people watching are free). There’s always a fun event to enjoy, such as the free 13th Annual Downtown Delray Beach Craft Festival on February 27th and 28th. “The Ave”, as the locals refer to it, is full of unique galleries, shops, eateries and boutiques. While there, you may want to check out Vic & Angelo’s Happy Hour specials. At “Wine Down” Mondays, choose from an array of half-price wines; on weekdays from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., enjoy half-price drinks and appetizers at the bar and feast on scrumptious starters, such as tuna crudo, beef carpaccio, grilled calamari, Old School Meatballs and Mussels al Forno. For more information, call 561-278-9570, or visit vicandangelos.com.

February 200 19 0

ANIMAL INSTINCTS

You’ve seen him on Letterman and Good Morning America. He’s done work for The Discovery Channel and he’s said hello to us from his perch on NBC’s Today Show. Now, you and your honey bunny can see Ron Magill give his funny, informative talk live, Sex and the Animals, at Miami Metrozoo (just in time for Valentine’s Day)! Scheduled for 8 p.m. on February 13th, Magill’s popular, adults-only lecture features hilarious photos, witty anecdotes and educational facts about animals’ courtship and breeding behaviors. Tickets aren’t super cheap — $30 each, or $25 if you’re a zoo member. But the good folks at the zoo are throwing in a wine-andcheese reception. And that’s a bargain we can learn to love. For more information call, 305-251-0400 or visit miamimetrozoo.com.

You PICK

GO HALFSIES

GO CLUBBING

EXPLORE THE PAST

Growing a garden in South Florida can be downright tricky. All those pests roaming around, eating up the goods. That’s why we like leaving the growing to the folks at The Girls Strawberry U-pick in Delray Beach. They do all the work and leave the fun for us. We mean, you two. There’s an Organic Gourmet Country Store for buying up odds and ends, and then walk through the back door into outdoor bliss. “You walk out those doors and it’s like you’ve walked into another country,” says U-pick’s Alice Alexander. She also says you can’t see their place from Military Trail, so you have to be on your toes. “We’re like a hidden gem,” she says. There’s no charge unless you buy something here, and last spring they had strawberries, string beans, cucumbers, lettuce and grape tomatoes. For more information, call 561-496-0188 or visit thegirlsstrawberryupick.com.

Miami Metrozoo’s Ron Magill

Whoever said timing was everything may have had this hotspot in mind. At Wild Olives by Todd English, the new celebrity chefdriven restaurant at The Shops at Boca Center, the two of you can enjoy delectable half-price appetizers and refreshing cocktails (including wine by the glass and beer) daily from noon to 7 p.m. at the bar. Happy Hour just turned into happy day! Soak in the swanky ambiance and indulge in tuna tartare, Carpetbagger oysters, asparagus frites, yummy flat breads and other delish starters. The dining room and patio are great places for leisurely lunches and dinners – or to continue your date over dessert. For more information, call 561-544-8000 or visit wildolives.com.

GET COZY

Stay clear of high prices, crying babies and the inevitable ringing cellular phone by renting a movie at home. Put on your loungewear (or lingerie – your choice), light some candles and cuddle up in the privacy of your own home. Redbox (DVD vending machines) provides movie rentals for just $1 per night (plus tax) and offers more than 19,000 locations (so there’s sure to be one near you). Redbox carries all the newest releases and you can even reserve your movie of choice online. With no late fees, we think it’s a great bang for your buck. Prefer classic films instead? Check out your local library where rentals are free with your library card. For more information visit redbox.com. 68

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Not only will whacking some golf balls relieve stress, but it will get the endorphins going and we all know where that leads… We’re not proclaiming the game of golf is cheap, but the driving-range can be downright inexpensive. At the Boca Dunes Country Club you can hit a bucket of balls for just $7 each (with 65 balls per bucket, that’s a lot of therapy). If your partner is new to the game, impress him or her by chatting about things like a birdie, a bogey and the cha-cha-cha. (We’ll leave the hole-in-one for another day.) Talk about a swinging date! For more information, call 561-483-4654 or 561-451-1600 or visit bocadunes.com/home/newhome.html.

Sometimes, the best things in life are free – and that’s the case with the old Palm Beach County Courthouse in downtown West Palm Beach. Built in 1916, the original courthouse underwent early renovations in 1927. In 1955, they re-did it again – “wrapping” the building with another building. Now the building’s been unwrapped and turned into a beautiful museum, perfect for exploring the past. The Richard and Pat Johnson Palm Beach County History Museum shows off all the original materials found in the 1916 building and the renovation team also reused

materials found in the 1955 addition, rebuilt areas that were lost or destroyed and found many original items that had been stored off site. The result is a wonderful walk back in time for the two of you. Exhibits are free; ask about the free reservations-only walking tours. For more information, call 561-832-4164 or visit historicalsocietypbc.org.

Say Cheers

Say buh-bye to beer in 2010 and say hello to wine. Don’t know the difference between a Merlot and a Cabernet? Well, The Rustic Cellar in Boca Raton has all the answers. And they serve by the glass, so it won’t cost you an arm and a leg to get your palate going. “Boca Raton becomes California wine country,” boast the folks at The Rustic Cellar. And they love a good special. Check the Web site for current deals but they usually have special nights like 50 percent off Champagne. Or, taste all night for only $15 each. We think you’ll like the warm feeling this place gives you. For more information, call 561-392-5237 or visit rusticcellar.com.

JAZZ IT UP

folks at the Boca Raton Museum of Art, they know. Every month – usually, it’s the first Wednesday of the month – these guys turn their sculpture garden into an outdoor performance hall. They hire the jazz musicians. Set up chairs. Order up balmy weather. And the magic begins. We like “Jazz After Dark” because it’s cultural and it’s inexpensive. Just $5 per person, unless you’re already a museum member. And then, guess what? You get in free. By the way, if you purchase a $5 ticket for any “Jazz After Dark” event, you will receive $5 off the cost of a new museum membership. Good to know. For more information, call 561-392-2500 or visit bocamuseum.org.

LISTEN Closely

Why not become a cultural couple at the Count de Hoernle Amphitheater? The Centre for the Arts at Mizner Park will offer incredible deals at its annual Festival of the Arts Boca, which happens March 5th through March 13th. In addition to some great concerts, films and art events, the festival will feature amazing speakers including author and historian Doris Kearns Goodwin, who will chat about everything from President Abraham Lincoln’s cabinet members to her beloved Boston Red Sox, and author Noel Riley Fitch, who will discuss her authorized biography about Julia Childs. Starting at $25 a ticket, this date is a tiny bit pricier than some, but hey, you’re worth it. For more information, call 561- 3688445 or visit festivaloftheartsboca.org.

There’s something special about a sultry evening and good jazz music that puts us in the mood for, well, you know. Just ask the

SEE A SHOW

Enjoy the arts? Delray Beach’s Old School Square Cultural Arts Center offers a plethora of fun events. Full of character, the center sits on the historic grounds of the former 1913 Delray Elementary School and 1925 Delray High School buildings, and tours are available. Performances, lectures, outdoor movies and more are available throughout the year — the 12-time Tony Award-winning musical Cabaret arrives February 19th for a three-day run (tickets are only $42). Or how about an art exhibit? Pinball Palooza: The Art, The History, The Game features the history of pinball and machines will be available for play. Exhibit admission is just $6 per person. For more information, call 561-243-7922 or visit oldschool.org.

43 Vintage pinball art

Cabaret performers

Old School Square Cultural Arts Center

February 2010

The Renaissance Festival

GO MEDIEVAL

Step way, way back to the days when chivalry was alive and well and men won womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hearts by dueling for their affection. How romantic. At the 18th Annual Renaissance Festival, the two of you can applaud medieval performers, cheer battling knights, feast on hearty food, play games of chance and experience human rides (whatever that means). Visit the Pub and toast to the Royal Court with a tankard of ale or cider. The festival takes place at Quiet Waters Park in Deerfield Beach from February 13th through March 14th. Buy $20 tickets online or at the gate â&#x20AC;&#x201D; or save $4.05 by purchasing them from your local Walgreens. For more information, call 1-800-3-REN-FEST or visit ren-fest.com.

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SKIP DINNER

Arrive hungry to Jaxson’s Ice Cream Parlour & Restaurant in Dania Beach. This South Florida landmark has been entertaining guests and filling their bellies for decades; it was featured on Good Morning America and named by Food Network’s Unwrapped as one of the nation’s “Top 5 Cool Quenchers.” Jaxson’s prepares all their ice cream, sherbets, yogurts and toppings on premises daily, the old-fashioned way, batch by batch. Their salads, sandwiches and wraps are not to be missed but we recommend going straight for dessert. Any of Jaxson’s oversized creations are perfect for sharing, with treats like the Super Jumbo Banana Split or the Colossal Chocolate Mint Parfait (the Kitchen Sink can feed a small nation). There’s a $1 sharing charge, but think of it this way: it’s half the calories (though who’s counting?). Guests also appreciate the place’s vintage charm and old-fashioned gifts and candies. Such fun! For more information, call 954-923-4445 or visit jaxsonsicecream.com.

ROCK AND BOWL

Nothing says I love you like a little good-natured competition. Try a game or two of bowling at Strikes@Boca. Besides giant TVs, pool tables, an arcade, food and drinks, Strikes@Boca offers a variety of daily specials from 9 p.m. until close that won’t drain your wallet. On Two for Tuesday, get 2-for-1 bowling, shoes, $3.75 well drinks, $3 draft beers and more. On Wacky Wednesdays, pay a $10 cover charge and just 25 cents for games, shoes and soda and 50 cents for hot dogs and draft beers. Our personal favorite, Three Olives Thursdays, offers Three Olives Vodka for just $3 per drink. If you strike out, at least you’ll have fun doing it. For more information call 561368-2177 or visit strikesbocaraton.com.

don’t forget to print out the coupon for an extra few bucks off. For more information, call 561-243-0686 or visit delraybeachcruises.com.

GO GOURMET

Healthy couples with good taste will appreciate The Green a decidedly upscale, fast-casual eatery that serves organic gourmet comfort food (yes, there is such a thing). The market opened last November at Addison Place in Delray Beach, and has been a hit with foodies. Choose from a menu of tantalizing choices created by Chef/Owner Joey Giannuzzi. Eat in the intimate cafe or on the patio. Or take your meal to-go (beach picnic, anyone?). Offerings include soups, salads, sandwiches, sides, entrees and desserts, all packed in reusable bags (Chef Giannuzzi practices what he preaches). If you return with your bag for subsequent visits, you’ll get 10 percent off your order. Healthy for the body and wallet. We like that. For more information, call 561455-2466 or visit thegreengourmetdelray.com. Gourmet,

GO ON SAFARI Want to explore your wild side? Commune with nature at Lion

Country Safari, where you can experience a slice of Africa right in West Palm

Beach (and from the safety of your own vehicle). The park features a four-mile drive-through preserve that serves as a natural habitat to more than 900 animals. On Valentine’s Day, Cupid the giraffe (who has a heart-shaped spot – no kidding) will celebrate his fifth birthday; in honor of this festive occasion, visitors are invited to meet and feed the big guy. Here’s the deal: Visit the park’s Web site and you’ll find a $6 coupon toward admission. For more information, call 561-793-1084, or visit lioncountrysafari.com.

PLAY FETCH

Love you, love your dog, right? So how about some quality time with your partner and your pooch? There are a whole bunch of great dog parks in our area: Mizner Bark: The Boca Raton Dog Park, Lake Ida Dog Park in Delray Beach, Pooch Pines at Okeeheelee Park in West Palm Beach… At Jupiter Dog Beach, you can enjoy the sun, surf and beautiful surroundings with the two most important beings in your life. Dogs are allowed on unguarded beaches from Jupiter to Juno Beach. Who knows, Fido might even find his bitch, er, true love, too. For more information, call 561-741-2400 or visit jupiter.fl.us.

LAUGH OUT LOUD

SAIL AWAY

So your blind date has everything but a sense of humor? You can still laugh until you cry (and not about the date) at the New York Comedy Club in Boca Raton. The urban-style club features nationally acclaimed comics performing their uncensored best. The club’s owner has been in the biz for more than 30 years and helped jumpstart the careers of noted comedians such as Dave Chappelle, Chris Rock, Rosie O’Donnell and Martin Lawrence. There’s a two-drink minimum and some great munchies from which to choose. Mention you read about the club in The Boca Raton Observer and get in free. Such a deal! For more information, call 561-470-6887 or visit nyccboca.com.

What’s better than Sunday brunch? How about Sunday brunch at sea? Delray Yacht Cruises offers a two-hour cruise on the Lady Atlantic that heads north toward Manalapan Island, one of the wealthiest communities in the United States. On the cruise, a director will narrate and point out sights of interest while you and your date enjoy a delicious brunch including Vegetable and Cheese Frittata, Buttermilk Pancakes with Maple Syrup, Chef’s Pasta Selection and more. Reservations are required to guarantee a spot for the cruise, which sails from 10:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. on Sundays. The best part: It’s only $32 per person. And if you visit their Web site,

FINE DINE

So a weekend getaway at The Breakers Palm Beach may not be in the cards right now but that doesn’t mean you can’t pretend. Through April 30th, enjoy the unforgettable setting, delectable dining and undeniable savings at the nine distinctive restaurants and five bars housed at this ritzy getaway: Savor half-price drinks during Happy Hour at Echo, The Tapestry Bar or late night at The Seafood Bar. Take advantage of the pricefixed lunch and dinner menus at L’Escalier, The Flagler Steakhouse, The Italian Restaurant and The Seafood Bar. Dress to the nines and no one will have a clue you’re not a guest. For more information, call 561 659-8488 or visit thebreakers.com. O

The Circle at The Breakers Palm Beach

The Flagler Club at The Breakers Palm Beach

February 2010

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South Florida Singles Recall Dates They’d Rather Forget

By Mary Thurwachter

Flirting With

There are a million dating stories in the naked city, with tales of butterflies and chemistry, Champagne and romance, love – or at least, some serious lust – at first sight.

These are not those stories. Rather, these are the dates that should never have been. Outings unpleasant enough to prompt singles to retire from the whole shebang (at least temporarily) and consider other options. Say, joining a monastery. Or a witness protection program. We’re talking about dates from hell. The kind we never forget. As is often the case these days, many people with whom we spoke met their insignificant others online, where the convenience factor of browsing for dates via computer could be compared to shopping for frying pans on Amazon. Except that, with Amazon, you know what you’re getting. News flash (not really): Lying and misrepresentation are rampant in the online dating world. Just ask Judy D., 33, a Boca Raton teacher. Judy thought she’d found the 36-year-old lawyer of her dreams. “I saw a gorgeous specimen of a man in various smoldering snapshots. He described himself as a fun, outgoing lawyer and one of his hobbies was modeling.” This should have been her first clue. Judy agreed to meet the lawyer/model at Starbucks. “He was in the most blinging white Rolls Royce you’ve ever seen,” she recalls. “He would have been subtler if he had pulled up in Santa’s sleigh.” As it turned out, the car was far more impressive than its

February 2010

owner, who, by the way, was not very model-like. He said he was 5’11, but Judy towered over him at 5’4”. And, “he must have let his gym membership lapse because he had quite a belly bursting out of his designer suit,” she recalls. Turns out he’d been a model after all – when he was 17. Still, the worst part was his attitude, Judy says. “The conversation was one-sided and he blathered on about his cars, homes, vacations and how he could fly first class. He couldn’t have been more obnoxious. I nearly fell asleep.” West Palm Beach public relations specialist Nicole J., 29, also met a short man with tall-man syndrome (his online profile said he was 6’; turned out he was 5’7”). “I was already annoyed he’d lied about his height. After one drink, he asked if I wanted to do a shot. The bartender asked if the shots should go on my tab. The guy immediately said, ‘Yes.’ I looked at him in surprise. His response: ‘What, do think this is a free ride?’” For some reason that must now escape her, Nicole then accompanied her date to a restaurant for dinner – where she picked up her own check. “Then I darted out as quickly as I could.”

Not everyone sticks around when things head south. Natasha B., a 45-year-old Delray Beach sales executive, met her online date at a Mizner Park restaurant. “He was with a group of friends so I sat down, but he never introduced me or even offered to buy me a drink,” she recalls. “I excused myself, went to the ladies room and left. He e-mailed me to say how insulted he was!” They say opposites attract. In fact, sometimes it’s the traits we share that send us running for the door. When Etta S., a 70-year-old Boca Raton widow decided to try online dating, she met a man with whom she shared many similar interests. Too many. “I liked men and so did he,” she says, miffed. “That was a deal breaker.” A trooper, Etta then agreed to a fix-up by friends. “We went to dinner and he made good conversation,” she remembers. “I was really enthusiastic. But when I got up to leave, he couldn’t get out of his chair and the waiter had to help him. (Then) he asked for another date and told me he’d be bringing his unmarried daughter who lived with him. He said he never went anywhere without her.” It was about this time, Etta says, she wondered if she wouldn’t be better off joining a local nunnery – even if she was Jewish.

Of course, women don’t have the corner on dating disasters. Boca Raton trial lawyer James R., 46, found a woman he thought sounded pretty good. “There wasn’t a picture with her profile,” he says, “and looking back that should have raised some flags.” Though, during their twohour phone conversation, she did provide a description. They agreed to meet for dinner that very night.

He recalls another date, which was reminiscent of the Spanish Inquisition. “She was just my type, smart, pretty, nice,” he explains. But then the interrogation began: She wanted to know his salary, car type, where he’d like to live, how many kids he wanted and whether or not the kids would attend private school… “I felt

“

I liked men and so did he.That was a deal breaker. Etta S., Boca Raton

“She must have gained 40 pounds and lost four inches in height since we talked on the phone, and her hair was cropped, not long and straight like she said,” James quips. “She had a cast on her leg, which I found surprising since she told me she’d been working out that day.” Things continued to spiral downward. When she noticed his disinterest, she tried to lure him in with graphic descriptions of her first lesbian encounter. “This was a family restaurant. I was mortified. She wanted me to go back to her place but I said I had to work early in the morning. Then she kept calling for weeks. ”

”

“

He was with a group of friends so I sat down, but he never introduced me or even offered to buy me a drink. I excused myself,went to the ladies room and left. He e-mailed me to say how insulted he was! Natasha B., sales executive, Delray Beach

*Names have been changed to protect privacy

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”

like I was in a deposition,” he says. “I felt like stating my objections.” Boca dentist Joel H., 68, certainly objected to his experience, which nearly led to one bad date for the price of three. “We decided to meet at Aventura Mall and go to dinner,” he explains. “She was as lovely as her picture, but, to my surprise, she introduced me to her two teenagers. Unbeknownst to me they were join-

ing us for our first date!” When his date said, “I thought you wouldn’t mind, since you’re such a sport,” she was mistaken. “I said. ‘excuse me’ and walked away.”

the restaurant,” says Susan. “So he starts singing at the top of his lungs at the table. Show tunes! Everyone was staring, and he wasn’t even very good. It was so embarrassing.”

Just one woman showed up for a blind date with Lantana resident Allen G., 68 – but she ordered two meals. They met at a Palm Beach restaurant, where she ordered lobsters: one to eat at the restaurant, she explained, and one to take home. “She wasn’t even very nice to me,” recalls Allen, a retired fund-raiser. “And she talked with her mouth full.”

Still, life was a cabaret compared to her date the following week. “He was 20 years older than he said and – not that looks are everything – but he really looked like Shrek,” she recalls. “He insisted we have dinner, and then spent the night complaining about his ex-wife, who wouldn’t let him see his daughter without supervision because he’d been accused of forcing her to eat seashells… It was so strange. I spent the evening providing free therapy.”

And talk about a date that ended on a sour note. When Susan S., 44, a Deerfield Beach social worker, agreed to meet Joe, 46, a salesman, at an outdoor cafe, she didn’t know she’d need earplugs. “He starts talking about how much he liked karaoke, but there was no mic at

“

Sometimes, dating leads to way too much information. Such was the case with Gretchen P., a 38-year-old banker from Deerfield Beach, who met a guy online who admitted to “some quirks”. Then he casually requested she wear open-toed shoes on their date. She did. Surprise – the man had a foot fetish and stared at her feet all night. The low point of the evening: when he asked if she’d ever had her toes sucked.

If the date is really a bad person, it is perfectly fine to say, ‘I can see that we are just not going to click, so I won’t take up any more of your time.

”

Nancy Vrechek, therapist, Jupiter

Shawn S., 45, a Parkland freelance writer, also met a guy with a fetish that was really something to sneeze at. Literally. “He told me he got turned on when people sneezed,” she recalls in disbelief. “I didn’t even know there was such a thing! He kept trying to get me to sneeze for him, and asked me how often I sneezed, if my sneezes were wet or dry, if I made sounds when I sneezed and how many syllables my sneezes were … Why me?” Indeed, why any of us? Sounds like a question for the experts. Boca Raton therapist and hypnotist Martin Nathan has seen firsthand the toll negative experiences can take on a person’s psyche. “One of my clients

asked me to hypnotize her so she could forget a man she’d dated. She wanted to get over the pain,” he recalls. Don’t make dating the primary focus of your life, he says. “I tell people to follow their interests. Take a class. Get out. Don’t look for a date. Look for a good time. Take it slow.” Jupiter therapist Cara Koplan agrees. “I tell clients to engage in life and make themselves happy. Once they’re happier it leads to all kinds of positive things. If you are focused on the search, you let all other areas of your life go.” It helps to change your attitude, says Delray Beach therapist Jo Blake. Don’t feel you “need” to meet someone. “Then, the process of being open to a new relationship, good dates, bad dates, ho-hum dates or whatever becomes just interesting stuff. We’re able to have the experiences, some of which are weird or disappointing, without attaching to them.” And, of course, dating and honesty should not be oxymorons. “If you’re honest in your online profile and your pictures show you 20 pounds lighter than you are now, you’ve already set yourself up for possible rejection,” warns Lori Sarvis, a Deerfield Beach clinical social worker and sex therapist. “Do you not think the other person will notice you lost all your hair, five inches from your height, and look about eight years older? This does not make for a great first date and there will probably not be a second one.” And when the inevitable occurs, and you find yourself in an unfortunate dating situation, remember – you can always leave. “If the date is really a bad person, it is perfectly fine to say, ‘I can see that we are just not going to click, so I won’t take up any more of your time,” points out Jupiter therapist Nancy Vrechek. “Once you see it’s not a good fit, don’t waste each other’s time,” she says. “Above all, lighten up and have fun.” O

February 2010

Embracing Diversity: Kathirene and Dean Horoff

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Love may be blind, but it arrives in myriad shapes and sizes. And we certainly enjoy mixing it up. Different ages, races, religions and cultural backgrounds converge to make for wonderfully enriching, interesting and loving relationships. But relationships can be complicated enough without adding unconventionality to the equation. While the days of traditional nuclear families have lessened somewhat, not everyone embraces – or understands – the beauty of diversity. Couples with different religions and cultures, vast age differences or the same sex sometimes still face challenges others do not. The following four couples opened their hearts to share their stories. They explain how they met, obstacles they face and what keeps their love strong. In the end, it comes down to one thing: While love comes in all sorts of packages, if you nurture it, it will grow. Vive le difference!

Dean Horoff’s relationship with Kathirene became serious, it took his parents awhile to accept it. Kathirene, an African-American Christian, wasn’t what they were expecting. “They wanted me to marry someone Jewish,” recalls the 42-year-old UPS employee. But, once they got to know her, they too fell in love with her. Being an interracial, interreligious couple hasn’t posed as many challenges as people might expect, agrees the Boynton Beach residents, who married 15 years ago. “We grew up in California and it was no big deal there,” says 39-year-old Kathirene, whose family is “like the United Nations.” She adds, “Besides, I don’t take on other people’s issues. I don’t care what people say.” The tight-knit family, which includes 11-year-old Ryan and 13-year-old Kaitlyn, attends temple. The couple’s son is studying for his bar mitzvah. But, they also celebrate Christmas and other non-Jewish holidays. “You need to respect each other’s traditions,” says Kathirene, a pharmacy tech. “We believe in God, that’s the main thing.

God is the base of our house.” Their children are proud of their multiracial, multicultural heritage. They’re comfortable among people of all races and groups – their friends run the gamut of cultures. “We talk openly with the kids about anything and everything. They come to us with questions,” Kathirene says. “They know we are the ones that are going to tell them the truth.” Not only are their children tolerant of others’ differences, but they’ve protected and befriended those taunted by other children. “Our kids are stand-up kids. We have taught them that respect is essential,” says Kathirene. It’s been 21 years since Dean and Kathirene met through a friend – and they’re still madly in love. Their differences – she’s outgoing, he’s laid back – are what unite them. “We trust each other. We rely on each other. It sounds like a cliché, but we complete each other. We’re opposites so we balance each other,” says Kathirene, who calls Dean her best friend. In the end, it’s simple, says Dean: “Our family works.”

February 2010

is love. It’s that simple, Doreen Christopher and Joan Kahn contend. That’s one reason the two women, who joined hearts in 1997, are so secure in their relationship. “Really, we’re just like any other couple,” says Doreen, a 66-year-old

They met, like many couples do, through mutual friends at a dinner event. They had a great time laughing and talking, but Doreen, who lived in Boston, returned home and they didn’t start dating until a year later. “I told my

marketing and Web design consultant and avid tennis player, who wishes their union would be recognized legally. “Except that we can’t get the benefits that other couples do, like filing taxes together, Social Security benefits and things like that.”

friends I thought Joan was cute and they told her,” Doreen recalls. Says Joan: “They kept telling me what a nice person she was and that I should call her. I thought at first she was ultra-conservative so I was hesitant. But I thought about it and decided I should.”

Their untraditional relationship hasn’t provoked any overt hostility – partly because they reside in a gay-friendly community in Fort Lauderdale and attend Temple Sinai, an inclusive Delray Beach shul which reaches out to everyone with open arms. “If you don’t make it an issue most people won’t either,” says Joan, a 59-year-old paralegal who bakes and paints in her spare time. Adds Doreen: “I know people stare at us sometimes but I don’t care. They probably don’t understand it but it is their problem, not ours.” Being older, more confident and sharing a common faith helps, the couple agrees.

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After a two-year long-distance relationship, Doreen finally moved to Florida. “We love each other,” they concur without hesitation. Like Yin and Yang, they’ve brought out the others’ best qualities. Joan’s more outgoing now; Doreen’s calmer, more retrospective. Doreen, who has been married and divorced twice (mostly to please her mother, she says), has two daughters and five grandchildren, all of whom are very accepting of her lifestyle. And Doreen’s mom? “She loves Joan and she’s thrilled I’m with someone Jewish,” says Doreen. “Even if she is a girl.”

Forever Faithful: Doreen Christopher and Joan Kahn

February 2010

Threeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Company: Dianna and Zhi Wu with daughter, Mei

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Dianna and Zhi Wu brought their baby home from the hospital, there were no plastic baby storks outside their Boynton Beach house. Instead, a bowl of fire awaited them at the front door. The “walking over the fire” ceremony, promised Zhi’s mom, would ward off evil spirits. Strange as that might sound, Dianna understands Chinese traditions are an integral part of her husband’s life. “We had to marry on a lucky day, according to the Chinese calendar, and we had an American and an Asian wedding. When we moved into our house the monk blessed each room to cleanse it,” recalls Dianna, a 34-year-old Catholic writer who met her Buddhist husband in 2004. When you love someone, that’s not a lot to ask, she says. It’s more of a struggle, she admits, to interact with her in-laws since they don’t speak English. “Zhi translates for us and I promised to learn some Cantonese ... but haven’t yet. It’s such a difficult language.” Zhi, a 34-year-old Realtor, was attracted to Dianna’s genuineness and kind, caring ways, but he says marrying outside of his race is difficult at times. “Dianna doesn’t always understand the traditions but I know she tries as best she can. One of the biggest obstacles is the time I spend caring for my parents,” he says. “Most Americans don’t really have to take care of their elders. It isn’t in their tradition to do so. But in my culture, it’s part of the son’s responsibility.” Dianna agrees. “His responsibility to his parents is one of the things that attracted me to him. Ironically, this is also what drives me crazy about him at times,” says Dianna, who calls her husband of two years “the kindest, most thoughtful man I know.” With Mei, their 4-month-old daughter, people are noticing their physical differences more. “At a class for new moms, a woman kept staring at Mei, then at me,” Dianna recalls. “When Zhi walked up she said, “Oh!” She (had) wondered where the slanted eyes came from.” They plan to have more children. Zhi’s hoping for a son, he says, “because Chinese people believe the son will carry the family’s last name and hope they will take care of us just as I am taking care of my parents.”

February 2010

Helga Wagner met Helmut Koller, she scrutinized her what-I-want-in-a-man list – and Helmut had a perfect score. Her criteria included someone ethical, artistic, tall, good-looking and European. “I had to sit down when I read the list. I couldn’t believe it,” says Wagner, a world-renowned jewelry designer who has created pieces for Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Princess Caroline of Monaco and Candice Bergen. Helmut fit all the criteria. He was also much younger, but that didn’t matter to either of them. Koller knew the nanosecond he saw Helga at a cocktail party she was “the one” who could make him a onewoman man. “It was as if there was a spotlight on her,” says Koller, a talented painter and former official photographer for the Vienna State Opera. Wagner lit up the room

because it doesn’t bother him,” says Wagner, a former model who is coy about revealing her age. “It’s a non-topic, nobody cares,” adds Koller, who is 55. Their common cultural background and interests (they’re both from Austria, love to travel, cook, create and dote on their “child”, a 12-year-old long-haired dachshund) keep their relationship strong. They’re quick to agree: golf is boring – and boring has no place in their adventurous lives. Although their adjacent offices in West Palm Beach keep them together nearly 24/7, they wouldn’t have it any other way. “People ask how we can be together that much,” says Koller incredulously. “I don’t understand that question.” In 2006 – after 25 years together – the couple married in a low-key

– and his life. “I knew I would recognize the right woman when she came along.”

ceremony. “We are a very responsible couple, we didn’t want to rush into things,” quips Koller.

That was in 1982 – and the Palm Beach residents have been together since. Although Wagner’s older than Koller, it’s never been an issue for the couple, who maintain their zest for life keeps them both young. “Our difference in years doesn’t bother me

Their secret to a good relationship? “Have no secrets,” says Wagner. “And trust each other.” O

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Colorful Couple: Helga Wagner and Helmut Koller

February 2010

Marit al

Wows Offbeat Wedding Venues Make For Affairs To Remember By Linda Haase

ll brides want memorable weddings, but some take planning to extremes, searching far and wide for the perfect venue to set them apart from the rest.

“They want something outstanding for their big day, something unique everyone will remember,” explains wedding coordinator Jessica Nelson. Case in point: Nelson arranges weddings on a floating chapel – because for some brides, a stationary chapel simply won’t do – even going so far as to include pets in the bridal party. And why not? After all, a wedding should be the talk of the town. Trust us: Getting hitched at one of these six quirky spots – from a former prison to a haunted hotel – will leave an indelible impression.

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Photo courtesy Weddings Las Vegas

This Page, opposite page: Couples get hitched in the Grand Canyon, arriving by helicopter

February 2010

-- Rev. Aurore Leigh Barrett, president and CEO of Weddings Las Vegas

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Photos courtesy Weddings Las Vegas

“I’ve never tried to get in a helicopter with a wedding dress and heels, but brides do it all the time, even when they have a very voluminous skirt and train.”

Mansfield State Reformatory photos by Scott Sukel

The Grand Canyon Forget the horse-drawn carriage and stretch limo. You need to arrive at your wedding in real style. Try this: an exhilarating 45-minute helicopter ride with a bird’s-eye view of resorts and multimillion-dollar homes, shimmering Lake Mead and the Hoover Dam, then a quick zip across the border to Arizona and into the Grand Canyon where you’ll land on a picturesque bluff just a few feet above the Colorado River. Now imagine tying the knot 4,000 feet below the canyon rim and making a Champagne toast in one of the Seven Wonders of the World. This high-in-the-sky wedding costs $3,555 and includes the minister’s fee, a bouquet and boutonnière, Champagne, cake and 100 photos on a CD (you can add a video or DVD of the ceremony for $150). One caveat: This is for small wedding parties only. The helicopter can only accommodate the betrothed, a photographer, a wedding officiate, two guests and a pilot. Of course, if you want more guests, you can rent a second helicopter. After the ceremony, the newlyweds return via a breathtaking ride along the shores of Lake Mead and the Las Vegas Strip. “It’s especially beautiful when the couple has a sunset flight and returns to Las Vegas with the lights of the city brightly lit,” says Rev. Aurore Leigh Barrett, president and CEO of Weddings Las Vegas, which arranges the trips. Now, about that wedding dress… “I’ve never tried to get in a helicop-

The Wizard of Oz – inspiration for Land of Oz

ter with a wedding dress and heels,” says Barrett, “but brides do it all the time, even when they have a very voluminous skirt and train.”

Clockwise from left: A scene from Shawshank Redemption; spaces at the restored Mansfield State Reformatory

For more information, call 702-2895991 or visit weddingslasvegas.com.

Land of Oz Looking for a magical, enchanted wedding venue? There’s no place like … the Land of Oz. Follow the yellow brick road to this panoramic site, perched 5,500 feet atop Beech Mountain in North Carolina and profess your love in Eastern America’s highest town. The site, which showcases the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, was once a thriving, interactive theme park, where visitors experienced the cyclone which struck Dorothy’s house, visited with Oz characters and strolled to the Emerald City. It closed after a decade in 1980 – now it’s a lush private park and garden, but the Oz vibe remains, right down to the 1,000-square-foot replica of Dorothy’s House (furnished in period pieces and available for honeymoons). And yes, costumes are available for rental (anyone in the wedding party need some courage?). Couples can get hitched at various venues on the whimsical 8-acre property, including the Judy Garland Memorial Overlook Gazebo and the Fountain of Youth. Oz is best for small weddings (100 people or less) during the more temperate months of May through October (less chance of a tornado making it seem more like Kansas). Renting the Land of Oz costs $100, plus $10 per person. There are additional charges for a cake, Champagne toast and other items.

“You can see for miles and miles in this fun setting,” says Cindy Keller, the keeper of Oz, who will help with wedding arrangements. “There’s a beautiful waterfall and pond. It’s very peaceful.” The beautiful scenery is a lure, but the nostalgia it evokes is just as powerful, Keller says. “The Wizard of Oz is the most-watched movie of all time. It’s kind of comforting and reminds them of their childhood.” Now, just click your (high) heels three times. For more information, call 828-3872000 or visit emeraldmtn.com.

Mansfield State Reformatory There’s something to be said for exchanging vows in this slammer. Sure, you’ll endure teasing about “a life sentence without parole” and the “ball and chain” jokes, but the memories of a wedding in Ohio’s historic prison where Air Force One and Shawshank Redemption were filmed will be worth it. From outside, the Mansfield State

Reformatory resembles a welcoming, grand castle (try to imagine it without bars on the windows). Glamorous weddings are held in the restored central guardroom, which can accommodate up to 225 people and features gleaming black-and-white marble floors, soaring ceilings and large granite columns (don’t worry, the inmates have been gone since 1990). The surrounding jail cells do lend a certain je ne sais quoi, though. “It’s very elegant,” says Operations Manager Susan Nirode, noting the building’s Victorian Gothic, Richardsonian Romanesque and Queen Anne architecture. And of course, she says, guests rarely turn down an invitation to a wedding there. “It’s just so unique that they want to be a part of it.” Not only is the 250,000-square-foot, 600-cell prison the site of popular ghost tours, but it’s been featured on the Travel Channel and other programs that showcase its underground tunnel and the cell block used as a Russian prison in the film Air Force One. Directors love its quirky features; parts of Harry and Walter Go To New York and Tango and Cash also were filmed here. The facility, which February 2010

opened in 1896, is steeped in history and lore: More than 4,000 soldiers received Civil War training at a former campsite on the property.

the hotel, bumping guests off the piano seat that was her pride and joy and that “something” in the closet of room 401 brushes against people.

Staff and volunteers are now fondly restoring the facility for use as a museum, and see it as a very special place. “We love it here,” Nirode says with pride. “Who would have thought of a prison as being a happy place?”

But it’s really gorgeous and there are picture-perfect areas inside and out. “My favorite location for a ceremony is the Front Lawn (with spectacular scenic backdrops in every direction, including lakes, mountains and the hotel). Nothing is more stunning than watching the bride walk down the Grand Staircase to meet her soonto-be husband,” says Stanley Hotel Wedding Assistant Morgan Baker.

Renting the site for weddings costs $700. Staff will help arrange the extras: flowers, hotels, food, music and photographs with outside vendors. Glamour in the Slammer Bridal Expos are held periodically. Jailhouse Rock, anyone? For more information, call 419-5222644 or visit mrps.org.

Stanley “The Shining” Hotel Envision the incredible wedding photos: The glowing couple exchanging vows 7,500 feet above sea level with a breathtaking view of the Rocky Mountains in the background. Beaming guests flow into the 100-year-old historic Stanley Hotel for the reception in a sun-splashed room with arched windows, high ceilings and elegance at every turn. Sound too good to be true? Well, there is one little quirk. The Estes Park, Colo.-based hotel was the inspiration for Stephen King’s classic horror book The Shining, sparked during his stay in Room 217. Oh, one other thing: it’s considered haunted – among the strange occurrences are reports that founder F.O. Stanley’s late wife, Flora, frequents

The Concert Hall, with its dramatic verandah, high ceilings and picture windows framing the Rocky Mountains, is an ideal venue for the reception, Baker says. “The Concert Hall was commissioned by Flora Stanley to resemble the Boston Symphony Hall and John Phillip Sousa performed some of his first concerts here.” And people really embrace the Hollywood factor: The hotel offers tables named after scenes or characters from The Shining, and a Jack Nicholson impersonator visits from time to time to take photos with newlyweds. Wedding packages include a complimentary Champagne toast, four-hour reception, custom table settings, luxurious dinner and a romantic wedding-night bridal suite. Prices begin at $65 per person, not including tax and service charges. For more information, call 970-5863371 or visit stanleyhotel.com.

Jules Undersea Lodge Why not dive into your wedding?

The Shining – inspired by a stay at the Stanley Hotel

T h e B o c a R at o n Ob s e r v e r

Literally. At Jules Undersea Lodge in Key Largo, Fla., the world’s only underwater hotel, “I dos” are exchanged at five fathoms. Just getting to the site, which sits atop pillars in a lagoon, is an escapade: a 21foot dive followed by close encounters with tropical angelfish, parrotfish, barracuda and snapper.

rock stars Steven Tyler of Aerosmith and Jon Fishman of Phish. The wedding package costs $1,750, plus tax, and there’s an additional charge of $175 per guest to attend the ceremony. For more information, call 305-4512353 or visit jul.com.

Floating Chapel

The entrance to the lodge, a former marine research lab, is through an opening in the bottom. “The feeling is much like discovering a secret underwater clubhouse,” according to the lodge’s Web site.

There’s a water view from every window in this quaint chapel. It’s almost as if you could reach out and touch the water.

Romantic music and fresh flowers greet the betrothed as they enter the lodge. And though the wedding is underwater, swimsuits aren’t mandatory: The lodge is filled with compressed air, which prevents water from rising and flooding the rooms (ensuring a wedding instead of a baptism).

Oh, wait. You can! This is a floating steeple-topped chapel. From the inside, it looks just like a traditional wedding venue: flower-adorned pews, lush carpeting, cathedral ceilings and an altar. (Though the “Life Vests Underneath” sign in the dressing area gives it away).

A notary is available to dive down for the nuptials, and the couple has full use of the cottage-sized lodge for the night, which features 42-inch round windows in each room, cozy beds, a fridge, microwave, books, music and movies. Picture a really glamorous submarine. The hotel’s mer-chef scuba-arrives (carting waterproof containers) to prepare and serve a gourmet meal including shrimp cocktail appetizers, a choice of lobster or steak, vegetables, salad and dessert.

Once onboard, the chapel becomes an intimate love boat. The betrothed profess their love with Sarasota’s waterfront and the barrier islands of Siesta Key, Lido Beach, Longboat Key and the Island of Anna Maria as a backdrop. After the ceremony, guests spill out onto the front and rear decks and enjoy Champagne toasts and cake as the 100-seat chapel cruises around Sarasota Bay. There’s a red carpet for the couple and awesome views for everyone: dolphins, manatees, stingrays and even a shark or two have been sighted. Imagine that at sunset.

Couples (who must either be certified to dive or take a class at Jules) can embark on a night dive or snuggle up and watch the (underwater) world go by. One thing’s certain: There will be no other guests to disturb your view. “The mangrove lagoon in which Jules is located is a natural nursery area for many reef fish,” the Web site boasts. “Waking up to view a pair of angelfish looking in your bedroom window is a moment you’ll never forget.” And you’ll join the diverse list of celebs to experience this unusual habitat, including former Canadian Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau and

And if it isn’t smooth sailing? The 60foot chapel cruises rain or shine and can handle waves. “We typically leave port and anchor out for the ceremony. If it’s a little choppy we just cruise instead of anchoring (it’s smoother that way),” says Jessica Nelson, event coordinator. “The great thing about Florida though – if you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes!” Not recommended for runaway brides. Prices range from $795 to $2,295. O For more information, call 727-4839020 or visit weddingsonwater.com.

Stanley Hotel photos courtesy of The Historic Stanley Hotel

Top Three photos: Stanley Hotel Bottom Row from left: Floating Chapel, inside the Floating Chapel, Jules Undersea Lodge

February 2010

Beauty Patrol Isn’t it time you did something nice for yourself? We think so. How about that new hair color you’ve been dying to try, or those eyelash extensions you’ve heard so much about? From amazing hairstylists and estheticians to talented eyebrow artists and masseuses, South Florida is home to a world of beauty professionals. Want proof? Meet the beauty experts on the following pages.

T h e B o c a R at o n Ob s e r v e r

Special Advertising Section

Conte Salon is located at 8794 Boynton Beach Blvd., Suite 111, Boynton Beach. For more information, call 561-742-2377 or visit contesalon.com.

Pretty Picture Conte Salon Creates Head-To-Toe Beauty

Beauty Patrol

The staff includes esthetician Gabriela Musaev, Bumble and bumble-trained Adam Gray and Francine Fragman, who specialize in razor and precision haircuts; color experts Alice Fox and Gloria Segura; Sassoon-trained Dina Pellicane; Lisa Capazzeli, who trained in New York

Step in the comfortable Conte Salon

a personable staff that includes salon

and Boca Raton; and stylist Maria Rubin-

and discover a new you. With everything

coordinator Alessandra Oliveira Machado

stein, who worked in Boca Raton and

from soothing scalp massages and hair

and receptionist Jordan Patriarca.

New York. Richard Conte specializes in

extensions, to precision haircuts, corrective color, pedicures/manicures, waxing, hair straightening, facials and makeup, it offers head-to-toe beauty. The classy Canyon Town Center salon is the brainchild of brothers and color specialists Richard and Victor Conte. They trained with their father and in New York and worked in upscale salons in Fort

In-depth consultations are provided to ensure clients’ hair color is perfect for their skin tone and that cuts are the right length for the frame of their face.

platinum seamless hair extensions. Wella Koleston Perfect, Goldwell and Redken color products are used, guaranteeing excellent gray coverage and shiny tresses. The Contes are devoted to learning about hair products and new techniques and plan to offer a training program for assistants to become stylists and colorists.

Lauderdale, Boca and Delray before ar-

Their relaxed, earth-tone salon is de-

The salon also features Fena Brooks’ Bel-

riving in Boynton Beach and assembling

signed for the ultimate in pampering and

la Blondes Boutique, an eclectic collec-

a talented, passionate staff of experts

beauty. In-depth consultations are provid-

tion of jewelry and accessories. Conte

dedicated to excellence and personal-

ed to ensure clients’ hair color is perfect

Salon offers a referral program for new

ized service. Guests are put at ease as

for their skin tone and that cuts are the

clients who refer a friend: Both will re-

soon as they walk in the door, thanks to

right length for the frame of their face.

ceive 20 percent off a service.

Special Advertising Section

February 2 0 1 0

Beauty Patrol

Salon Edge is located at 6877 S.W. 18th St., Boca Raton. For more information, call 561-750-8090 or 954-288-4372 or visit salonedgeofboca.com.

Jeri believes the right shape eyebrow provides a nonsurgical lift to the brow creating a more youthful appearance and lifting the spirit as well.

Looking Good Get An Instant Lift With Expert Brows & More By Jeri

Jeri Nanan

formerly of Lancome Brow Experts at Macy’s Town Center Boca Raton

If the eyes are the window to the

lift to the brow creating a more youthful

you the tricks of the trade tailored for

soul, the eyebrows are the illuminating

appearance and lifting the spirit as well.

your personal needs, Jeri is the person

light. And after expert Jeri Nanan shapes

to consult. She’ll make sure you look

your brows, people will see you in a

Jeri, who is also a world-renowned spe-

great from going to the gym to a fabu-

whole new way.

cialist in makeup artistry, has trained

lous night on the town.

and worked as a makeup artist for presHer expertise in brow shaping caught

tigious companies including Chanel,

Expert brows & more by Jeri is located in

the eye of the esteemed company Lan-

Versace, Dior and Revlon. Her 25 years

Salon Edge, a beautiful waterfront full-

come, which chose her to represent it as

of experience includes working with

service salon located at Wharfside Plaza

its first eyebrow expert in the country –

special clients on various projects in-

in Boca Raton. See before and after pho-

with a focus on South Florida.

cluding print, TV, celebrity personal ap-

tos and become a fan of Expert brows &

pearances and brides.

more by visiting Jeri@facebook. Mention

Jeri knows exactly how to enhance men’s

this article and receive 10 percent off your

and women’s features with expertise

If you would like to have a makeup ap-

first service with Jeri and 20 percent off for

eyebrow shaping. She believes the right

plication for your special event or pri-

first-time clients of Salon Edge services in

shape eyebrow provides a nonsurgical

vate makeup artistry lesson to teach

celebration of their one-year anniversary.

T h e B o c a R at o n Ob s e r v e r

Special Advertising Section

Beauty Patrol

GBS The Beauty Store has six South Florida locations, including one at Shoppes at Boca Greens, 19635 S. State Road 7, Boca Raton. For more information, call 561-451-8785 or visit gbsbeauty.com For other locations, call 800-565-3233.

The family-owned and -operated business, which began 30 years ago as a small store which carried basic beauty items, has evolved and is now a sophisticated beauty depot. But it still imparts

Owner Ken Bern and public relations principal Dana Rhoden

The family-owned and -operated business, which began 30 years ago as a small store which carried basic beauty items, has evolved and is now a sophisticated beauty depot. the same friendly neighborhood store atmosphere. We want to know our Imagine a customer-oriented beauty haven where you can discover thousands of amazing hair, nail and skin products and be pampered in a full-service salon. GBS The Beauty Store is all that and more. Its six South Florida stores dispense beauty advice along with cosmetic, skin care, nail and hair care products

Hello Gorgeous

customers by name and want our cus-

GBS The Beauty Store Covers All The Bases

gal, mirrors from Germany, cosmetics

for men, women and children. They

tomers to feel that GBS is their store – a place where they can find their basic beauty needs as well as more exotic and specialized items, such as skin care products from Israel, soaps from Portufrom Italy and handmade hair brushes from England – all at an excellent price. At GBS The Beauty Store, there’s a new “Everyday Extras” every day for custom-

also feature wig salons and theatrical

ers – maybe a gift with purchase or a

cosmetic centers – everything to help

service. We can answer the most basic

promotional price on an item. We work

people look and feel better.

question or can solve big beauty dilem-

very hard to create exciting programs

mas because we have the knowledge

with irresistible pricing in order to provide

and product selection.

value.

The expert staff is dedicated to customer

Special Advertising Section

February 2 0 1 0

Beauty Patrol

Glamour Girl Lashes is located at 140 N.E. Second Avenue, Studio #25, Delray Beach. For more information, call 917-533-6212, e-mail info@glamourgirllashes.com or visit glamourgirllashes.com.

makeup for several years and I’m a licensed esthetician – and wanted to own my own business.” So, this New York native got certified in eyelash extensions and saw a great opportunity to do something she was enthusiastic about. (She has since moved to Boynton Beach, closed her two business locations and opened Glamour Girl Lashes in Delray Beach, which specializes in eyelash extensions and eyelash products.)

“I customize a look for each individual’s style. When clients come to me after having their lashes done elsewhere, they stay with me.” “Glamour Girl Lashes is different from other companies,” Angela points out. “I only use top quality products (by Novalash and Lavish Lashes). I have chosen the best glues and lashes on the market. The lashes both look and feel natural, like my clients’ own lashes. I specialize in eyelash Angela Simons

extensions, and this is different than other companies that offer many services.”

Glamour Girl Lashes Esthetician’s Passion Leads To A Successful Business

Creating a personal look that suits

Angela’s application and technique are

each client’s individual style is Angela Si-

different, too. “I customize a look for each

mons’ passion. She started her first lash

individual’s style,” she expresses. “When

business, Beauty Studio 28, in June 2006,

clients come to me after having their lash-

and was so successful that she founded

es done elsewhere, they stay with me.”

a second business, Glamour Girl Lashes, in October 2009.

Eyelash extensions range from $250 to $550 at salons – Angela charges $300 –

“I originally was traveling to clients and

for a full set which can last up to eight

then got so busy, I couldn’t fit all of the

weeks when properly cared for.

clients in traveling, so I opened a loca-

T h e B o c a R at o n Ob s e r v e r

tion in both Coral Gables and Boca

Angela looks forward to growing and ex-

Raton,” explains Angela Simons, 33. “I

panding her business, while “doing what

had worked as a manager in retail, did

she’s passionate about.”

Special Advertising Section

Beauty Patrol

Green Wave is located at 308 S. Federal Highway, Suite 91, Boca Raton and 2217 N. Commerce Parkway, Weston. For more information, call 561-367-7323 (Boca) or 954-659-0033 (Weston) or visit greenwavebodywaxing.com.

Maria Pineda and Eliana Ruiz

At Green Wave Body Waxing, serenity and cleanliness are paramount. The award-winning waxing company is dedicated to pampering clients while offering them the ultimate in waxing services. Not only are their Boca Raton and Weston salons devoted exclusively to waxing, they specialize in green wax – an all-natural combination of aloe, oil, herbs, resin, and bee wax, a mix which is not as hot

Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow Green Wave Body Waxing Offers Peace And Purity

and sticky as conventional wax and elimi-

men and women includes eyebrow, lip, chin, ear, stomach, back, bikini and forehead waxing and laser permanent hair removal. First-time customers are offered special discounts including a Full Bikini w/Buttock Strip for $33.99 for women and 25 percent off any service for men and women. Green Wave also offers memberships, monthly specials and special event packages.

nates strips, reducing pulling and irritation of the skin. The wax is prepared solely for each client and never reused. The friendly, dedicated expert staff uses a 6-step system, including cleansing the skin with an antiseptic cleaner, protecting it with a special calming powder and applying an oil gel or moisturizer to refresh and reduce redness. At Green Wave, clients discover an

Its Weston office, which opened five environment of relaxation, calm and

years ago, was voted “Best Waxing Sa-

cleanliness. Their philosophy is to give

lon" by Our City Weston for five consecu-

At Green Wave, clients discover an environment of relaxation, calm and cleanliness. Our philosophy is to give customers the best service and quality. customers the best service and quality

tive years. The 18-month-old Boca Raton

at an affordable price. The extensive

location was voted “Best in Boca” by

menu of full-body waxing services for

Boca Raton magazine.

Special Advertising Section

February 2 0 1 0

Beauty Patrol

Juliet Salon is located at 247 N.E. Second Avenue, Delray Beach. For more information, call 561-819-5861 or visit julietsalon.com

Juliet Ciambrone

Just one visit to Juliet Salon will have you feeling great about yourself! It’s a place “with a little of L.A. in Delray” that’s inviting, fun and classy; a place that is in the business of beauty – and has been since it opened in 2007. Ciambrone and her staff bring their vast experience and advanced training in the newest styles and color to all of their clients – an elite crowd ranging from celebrities to locals to out-of-towners.

“Staying on the cutting edge lends itself to pampered clients getting the true salon experience. We aim to please – we offer master professionalism with years of salon experience.” Add to that expertise nail services, skin care, makeup and all hair care services – and you have the ultimate in head-totoe beauty pampering! The salon maintains only the finest, top-ofthe-line hair care services and products,

Where Art Meets Beauty Glamour and Trendy Style Come Together at juliet salon In Delray beach

like Kérastase, Unite (from California) and Davines (from Italy) and has the distinct reputation of using only the latest hair tools – blow dryers, flatirons and brushes. “Every client is treated with the utmost of respect and consideration – taking into account their own style and preferences,”

Get your ‘glamour on’ at Juliet

salon experience,” beams owner Juliet

expresses Ciambrone, a South Florida na-

Salon in Delray Beach – a trendy, upscale

Ciambrone, a saucy blond color spe-

tive who lives in Delray Beach. “Humble

place “where art and beauty meet.” Nes-

cialist who’s proud of her work creat-

and teachable, I believe that I can learn

tled in the heart of Pineapple Grove, Juliet

ing Hollywood blondes, starlet blondes,

from each person and experience.”

Salon exudes luxury – from its rich French

South Florida summer blondes, multidi-

decor to its indulgent atmosphere.

mensional natural highlights and cool,

So, escape into a world of glamour

icy blondes. “We aim to please – we of-

and luxury – and be transformed into a

“Staying on the cutting edge lends itself

fer master professionalism with years of

more beautiful and pampered you – at

to pampered clients getting the true

salon experience.”

Juliet Salon.

T h e B o c a R at o n Ob s e r v e r

Special Advertising Section

Beauty Patrol

Si Spa is located at 3800 N. Ocean Drive, Singer Island and is open seven days a week. For more information, call 561-340-1755.

To Si Is To Believe Si Spa Provides The Ultimate In Luxury Ready to Si what all the talk is about? Si Spa awaits you! The upscale, 8,500-square-foot spa located at the Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort and Spa offers unique treatments designed to rejuvenate, invigorate and relax. Try the Caribbean Wake-Up Call, 80 minutes of bliss, featuring exfoliating fruits,

The state-of-the-art spa offers results-oriented facials, signature massage therapies and decadent body exfoliations services in its eight soothing treatment rooms. facials, which offer lasting results by

is followed by a trip to the relaxation

stimulating the body to produce new,

lounge, where a comfy robe and slip-

healthy skin.

pers along with a hot cup of signature tea awaits. Or, if you prefer, relax in the

The state-of-the-art spa offers results-

steam room or take a dip in the private,

oriented facials, signature massage

outdoor Jacuzzi.

an invigorating massage, a revitalizing

therapies and decadent body exfolia-

scalp massage and a chilled mimosa to

tions services in its eight soothing treat-

A trip to Si Spa isn’t complete without

end your therapy.

ment rooms (all named after bodies of

browsing through its eclectic boutique,

water). A separate area is dedicated

featuring skin-care items and unique

The incredible Seaweed and Chakra

to nail care, offering customized mani-

gift items. You don’t have to be a resort

Experience is a luxurious and skin firm-

cures and pedicures. All treatments are

guest to experience Si Spa’s luxuries, ev-

ing body envelopment that includes

personalized (guests can choose the

eryone is welcome!

warm oil chakra therapy for the head

scent they would like to experience on

and scalp.

the journey of their choice).

There are plenty of skincare treatments,

Your experience begins the instant

truly live the spa’s motto: Si It. Experi-

like the oxygen and transformation

you enter Si Spa – a warm welcome

ence It. Love It.

The staff is dedicated to ensuring clients have an unforgettable experience and

Special Advertising Section

February 2 0 1 0

Beauty Patrol

Skin Apeel Day Spa is open seven days a week and is located at 21301 Powerline Road, Boca Raton. For more information, call 561-852-8081 or visit skinapeel.com.

A True Treat Skin Apeel Day Spa Nurtures The Body And Soul

At Skin Apeel Day Spa, clients are lavished with warmth, an uplifting spa treatment – and a cup of serenity. The experienced, passionate, welcoming staff is dedicated to providing a “wow” experience for guests, who often remark: “I just love coming here ... is it something in the air?” The toxin-free Boca Raton spa centers Owner Kim Knapp

on holistic treatments; products and treatments are carefully chosen for performance and safety and comple-

escape from reality – include a couples

current, ultrasonic dermabrasion, prod-

mented by the ideal combination of

massage, red wine facial and sweet feet

uct infusion and cool light therapy.

pure aromatherapy, active herbs and

chocolate pedicure perfect for Valen-

nourishing seaweeds which boost the

tine’s Day celebrations.

The experienced, passionate, welcoming staff is dedicated to providing a “wow” experience for guests, who often remark: “I just love coming here ... is it something in the air?”

this holistic methodology. Now, everyone can benefit from a relaxing series customized to re-educate facial muscles, stimulate the lymphatic system and skin, and minimize discoloration, scars and acne. This progressive system will in-

immune system, detoxify tissues and per-

The nurturing spa is also launching the

deed change skin care as we know it.

fectly balance the skin, body and nails

most advanced skin care system on the

Nurturing your body and soul is essential

with an abundance of oxygen, vitamins

market with a safe alternative to fillers,

to relieving stress and achieving balance

and minerals.

neurotoxins and invasive procedures.

in life. As spa professionals, they know the

The advanced technology in the new

value of self care. Their staff is ready to help

nonsurgical face lift integrates micro-

you soothe your mind, body and spirit.

Treatments – which provide the perfect

Skin Apeel is proud to be exclusive with

T h e B o c a R at o n Ob s e r v e r

Special Advertising Section

Beauty Patrol

Sky Salon & Spa is located at the Penthouse, The Milan Building at Town Center, 1675 N. Military Trail (at Town Center Road), Boca Raton. For more information, call 561-338-SKY7 or visit SkySalonandSpa.com. Love is in the (h)air this month at Sky Salon & Spa, Boca’s sizzling-hot new beauty spot, as their world-class team of beauty professionals works magic on Valentine’s vixens whose foremost desire is to get gorgeous for the occasion. Whether you’re after soft sexy highlights, romantic curls, a bikini wax without the primal scream, perfectly primped nails and toes

Love Is In The (H)air Sky Salon & Spa Offers World-Class Beauty Treatments

or that must-have exquisite red lipstick –

styles she creates for them. Or you can uplift your arches with brow guru Stefanie Imbriale. Why not treat yourself or your sweetie to one of Sky’s more adventurous treatments? Check out eyelash extensions by Karina so you can bat your long lashes enticingly at Cupid’s intended, or a special Valentine’s ’do by Patricia for your hair

Sky Salon & Spa is the place to be.

down there. Dare to be bare anyone? their bright, shiny, just highlighted hair

Everyone adores looking gorgeous and

around,” says Master Colorist Frank Ma-

And let’s hear it for the boys, who have

feeling fabulous for Valentine’s Day. Just

rino. “There is nothing like a fresh new

their own man cave at Sky, a separate

ask Sky’s founder and celebrity hair col-

haircut to bring out your personal style,”

part of the salon for men-only complete

orist, Jody Jack, who says, “For some it is

Why not treat yourself or your sweetie to one of Sky’s more adventurous treatments? Check out eyelash extensions by Karina so you can bat your long lashes enticingly at Cupid’s intended.

sensuously slipping perfectly pedicured feet into a slinky pair of stilettos that makes them feel their best. For others it’s flaunting their skin’s youthful glow after a series of microdermabrasion treatments.”

according to Julie, one of Sky’s artistic

with flat-screen TV, where a haircut with

There is something for everyone at Sky.

stylists, whose clients say “amore” to the

Monica or Tasha promises to perk up his

“Many clients love flirting by flipping

very in, yet incredibly wearable hair-

Valentine va-va voom.

Jody Jack

Special Advertising Section

February 2 0 1 0

Beauty Patrol

Studio Z is located at 2200 Glades Road, Glades Plaza, Boca Raton. For more information, call 561-368-4244. Philipe Sze

When Philipe Sze opened Studio Z in Boca Raton in 2002, he brought with him many years of experience as a stylist from Vidal Sassoon in Los Angeles. His clients there included Suzanne Somers, Priscilla Presley and Connie Sellecca. Sze, who was born in Asia, immediately noticed the diverse culture and different racial backgrounds when he moved to the United States at age 15. “During high school, I befriended the manager

From Los Angeles, With Love Studio Z Brings Big City Experience To Boca Raton

of John Dellaria, who influenced me to

unique blend of seasoned stylists with different backgrounds and much experience under their belts – clients can rest assured they will always receive the best haircut and color. Eight years and thousands of satisfied clients later, Studio Z is home to some of Boca Raton’s best and most accomplished stylists which have earned Sze and his salon a very recommendable reputation. With a completely new

become a hair stylist,” Sze explains. “Af-

look, Studio Z is ready for a new year

ter, I moved to New York City and dated

Asian heritage. The infamous Vidal Sas-

and hopefully the great success it will

a stylist who later became the Artistic Di-

soon was Sze’s idol and fortunately for

bring.

rector of R.U.S.K. International. That con-

him, after graduating, he was hired as

firmed that this would be the profession I wanted to be in.” Sze later moved to Los Angeles and attended cosmetology school at Yomato

100

At Studio Z, clients can choose from a

At Studio Z, clients can choose from a unique blend of seasoned stylists with different backgrounds and much experience under their belts.

International and had the opportunity of

an apprentice at one of Vidal Sassoon’s

Sze’s words of wisdom: “Let the haircut

working with some of the best Asian hair-

salons and later went on to become one

do the talking, don’t become a legend in

stylists, making him more in-tune with his

of Vidal Sassoon’s top stylists.

your own mind, and always be humble.”

T h e B o c a R at o n Ob s e r v e r

Special Advertising Section

Beauty Patrol

The Seagate Spa is located at 1000 East Atlantic Avenue, Delray Beach. For more information, call 561-665-4950 or visit theseagatespa.com.

The Seagate Spa

your

room

($725/night,

available

February 11-21); a blissful Spa Suite Package, including accommodations in

Delray’s New Relaxation Destination

a private Spa Suite, a couples massage, bathing rituals, a special spa gift and Champagne and strawberries for two

Newly opened at The Seagate Hotel

The Seagate Spa’s menu includes certified

($790/night); and the Spa Package,

on Atlantic Avenue, the 8,000-square-

organic skincare treatments from the

offering three hours in a private Spa

foot Seagate Spa radiates a relaxed-yet-

Amala collection. Take your pick of body

Suite including couples massage and

chic South Florida vibe through tranquil surroundings and organic-inspired treatments. Guests are welcomed by soft hues and natural textures reminiscent of the oceanside atmosphere. A beach rock wall with cascading water and recycled

With the most romantic day of the year fast approaching, the Seagate Spa is offering a host of packages. Choose from the Valentine’s Day Package or a blissful Spa Suite Package.

wood floors lead to seven treatment

treatments, Vichy shower treatments,

choice of bathing rituals ($380 added

spaces, each arrayed with distinctive

Seagate Certified Organic Therapeutic

onto any room rate).

natural elements like limestone and

Massages and more. The signature Hot

pebble floors and organic rice paper walls

Shell Treatment offers the warming effects

Also, throughout February, the Seagate

embossed with a subtle wave pattern.

of lava shells and Swedish techniques.

Spa will top off any couples’ service

For the full experience, check into one

With the most romantic day of the year

of the hotel’s private Spa Rooms. Three

fast approaching, the Seagate Spa is

as well as offer the specially priced

Spa Rooms were designed for in-room

offering a host of packages. Choose

Chocolate/Rose Body Polish ($110) and

spa treatments and feature an infinity

from the Valentine’s Day Package, which

the Chocolate/Rose Petal Manicure &

tub, glass-enclosed Kohler Waterhaven

includes

couples

Pedicure Package ($104). All spa guests

shower, and marble and river rock

massage at the Spa and Champagne

have access to the fitness center and

bath.

and “tuxedo” strawberries delivered to

pool for the day.

with a complimentary glass of wine

accommodations,

Special Advertising Section

Champagne

and

strawberries,

February 2 0 1 0

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T H E T E M P TAT I O N S A P P E A R I N G N I G H T LY AT T R U L U C K â&#x20AC;&#x2122; S S AV O R T H E F R E S H E S T F L O R I D A S TO N E C R A B

Enjoy all you can eat Florida Stone Crab for one low price, every Monday night. From our traps to your table in hours. In Mizner Park at

351 Plaza Real

www.trulucks.com

561 391 0755

inside

Where to find Turkish treats, mouthwatering steaks, the finest Champagnes and more…

�

taste 8bites 8 reviews 8listings

The Dish on Food, Wine & Restaurants

PArty People: Clockwise; actress Stephanie

SOBE Satisfied

March with beau, Chef Bobby Flay, and WPLGChannel 10 anchor Laurie Jennings; Chef Michael Psilakis; Gloria Estefan, Chef Mario Batali and Thalia Mottola; Katie Lee Joel and Lee Brian Schrager at last year's festival

The South Beach Wine & Food Festival Returns

aula Deen, Rachael Ray and Sandra Lee are a few of the culinary superstars expected to converge in Miami Beach from February 25th through February 28th for the ninth annual South Beach Wine & Food Festival, presented by Food & Wine Magazine. Warning: Hosted by Southern Wine & Spirits and Florida International University, this is not a destination for the calorie conscious – eating and drinking will be tastefully rampant during this hedonistic weekend. Expect a bouillabaisse of events, from Saturday night’s Tribute Dinner for

during the four days, expect kidfriendly food demonstrations and the Wine + Dine + Design event, where guests can enjoy a multicourse dinner in four restaurants in the Miami Design District. New to this year’s festival lineup is the Dim Sum & Disco Party at The Setai And be on the lookout for Food with Jonathan Wright and celebrity Network’s finest: During the four- chef Ming Tsai, restaurateur and day festival, Deen, Lee and Ray will host of the weekly public television perform culinary demonstrations, series Simply Ming. sign books and participate in events, as will Guy Fieri (Diners, Drive-Ins You’ll be eating and drinking for a and Dives), Pat and Gina Neely good cause: All festival proceeds will (Down Home with The Neelys) and benefit Florida International UniDaisy Martinez (Viva Daisy!). Also versity’s School of Hospitality and Daniel Boulud, chef and owner of 10 award-winning French-inspired restaurants, including Palm Beach’s Café Boulud, to a series of Wine Spectator seminars with magazine editors Thomas Matthews and Bruce Sanderson.

Tourism Management. The event has raised more than $8 million to date – an amount organizers hope to increase this year. “We were so happy to have a recordbreaking year in 2009 with our highest number yet raised for the Florida International University School of Hospitality and Tourism Management,” says Lee Brian Schrager, the festival’s founder and director. “We are determined to make 2010 another banner year to benefit the school.” O For more information, call 877-7623933 or visit sobefest.com. – Jessica Gross

February 2 0 1 0

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• The Breakdown On Bubbly

By D.L. Lunsford

It’s called by many names. In Spain, it’s cava. In Italy, it’s Prosecco. In the United States, it’s sparkling wine. And most famously in France, it carries the brand champagne.

No matter what you call it, this bubbly concoction, stumbled upon accidentally by the French 350 years ago, speaks the universal language of love and celebration.

“Champagne is sexy. It is elegant,” says Stephen Asprinio, a Palm Beach County-based restaurateur, chef and sommelier. “It’s how it makes you feel. How it makes people feel and how it kind of goes to your head.” While there are as many choices of mousse – French for foaming bubbles – as there are grapes on a vine, the drink is largely rooted in the work of 17th Century Benedictine monks Frère Jean Oudart and Dom Pierre Pérignon. In the United States, Asprinio says labels such as Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label and Moët & Chandon White Star are among the most popular. And, he adds, “There are many other exciting champagnes to toast over if considering something special for the occasion. The best values exist in the grower Champagne category, or Champagne

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producers who grow their own grapes, as opposed to sourcing the grapes from other reputable growers as the larger Champagne houses do.” He recommends bottles from Gaston Chiquet, René Geoffroy, Pierre Gimonnet, Egly-Ouriet and Fleury, each which sell for about $50. When choosing, there are several factors to consider. “The smaller the bubbles, the finer the Champagne,” explains Charlie Arturaola, sommelier-in-residence at Lynn’s College of Hospitality Management. Age also matters. Arturaola recommends sipping the blend of Gosset Brut Excellence vintage 1999 ($60), which comes from the world’s oldest Champagne house. And, yes, when it comes to Champagne, how much you spend is a factor. “I would love to say no, but unfortunately it is largely true,” says Paul Grimm, food and beverage director at the Boca Raton Resort & Club. “Making great Champagne is an extremely difficult skill – 56 million bubbles per bottle.” And when it comes to love, a bottle of bubbly can say a lot. For example, Grimm recommends Nicolas Feuillatte Rose NV if you’re just starting out the relationship. Or, if you know that person is the one, that house’s Cuvee Palmes d’Or. “I brought several magnum bottles back from France and waited till I found the right woman to pour it for at my wedding,” Grimm says. Beyond French Champagnes, price becomes less of a factor in great taste, experts say. “The difference is in the making,” Arturaola explains. For Champagne, the second fermentation process happens in the bottle while the wine is still in contact with the yeast, giving the beverage a baked-bread quality. In comparison, Prosecco, a grape that comes from the Veneto region of Italy, derives its bubbles from placing wine in large pressurized vats. This

light and fruity bubbly is imbibed relatively young and quality bottles are available for less than $20. “Prosecco is a great choice,” says Elie Boueri, wine buyer at Joseph’s Bar & Café in Delray Beach. “It’s a little sweeter because it is fruitier.” He says its lower price point is driving sales in this economy. “It is a value play.” It’s also a good introduction for bubbly beginners, according to Virginia Philip, master sommelier of The Breakers Palm Beach. “Start out with something mild such as Prosecco and work your way into the heavier sparkling, Cava and Champagnes,” she suggests. “As these wines evolve tertiary aromas and autolysis changes the wine creating a more yeasty, brioche profile which many beginners may not find enjoyable.” Spanish Cava is a sparkling wine that can be produced in the traditional method with the secondary fermentation in the bottle, or by another method that yields a lighter style of sparkling wine, Asprinio explains. “Spanish Cava has a great deal of value with majority of the wines falling under the price of Champagne.”

If your taste tilts toward domestics, you probably won’t go wrong by picking bottles from vineyards known for strong labels in Chardonnay and Pinot Noir – two common grapes in sparkling wines and Champagne.

Charlie Arturaola Stephen Asprinio

Philip says great wine-making can be found in sparklers from Schramsberg and Domaine Carneros Le Rêve, which is the California winery owned by Champagne Taittinger. “Well-crafted and blended wines with the appropriate amount of aging is the key,” she explains. “The skill of the winemaker in his blending techniques for all … except Prosecco, is essential.” Cheers! O

Can’t decide what type of bubbly to buy? Here are some suggestions from the experts.  Piper-Heidsieck Brut

 Segura Viudas Cava Brut Reserva Heredad NV

 Schramsberg Blanc de Blancs

 Nino Franco Prosecco di Valdobbiadene NV

 Gramona Brut Imperial Cava

 Roederer Estate Anderson Valley Brut NV

 Domaine Carneros Le Rêve

 Gruet Brut Rosé New Mexico NV

 Nicolas Feuillatte Rose NV

 Zonin Prosecco

 Nicolas Feuillatte Cuvee Palmes d’Or

 Iron Horse Wedding

 Veuve Clicquot Brut

 Mionetto Sergio Prosecco

 Piper Sonoma Sparkling Wine

 Segura Viudas Cava Brut Reserva Heredad NV

 Banfi Rosa Regale sparkling wine

 Gosset Brut Excellence

 Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame

February 2010

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taste

review The Dish on Food, Wine & Restaurants // Get Fresh:

company has its own fleet of boats near Marco Island delivering the delicacies daily) and 100-percent antibiotic- and hormone-free Niman Ranch beef, pork and lamb.

Truluck's imports stone crabs daily

Truluck’s serves only fully sustainable fish – including the moist, Marine Stewardship Council-certified South Georgia Chilean sea bass, prepared grilled or with an Asian-inspired miso glaze served with crab fried rice and tangy chilled cucumber slaw. For carnivores, there’s the

The elegant dining room

Good Fortune

Dining At Truluck’s Is A Sure Bet

By Linda Haase

ruluck’s perfectly prepared food and inviting atmosphere lures diners. Add to that a staff that knows – and delivers – what guests want in a fine dining experience and you've got a winning combination.

where Truluck’s is located at 351 Plaza Real (Mizner Park), Boca Raton. For more information, call 561-391-0755 or visit trulucks.com. 106

The attention to detail starts with a genuinely warm welcome and ends the next day with a how-was-everything phone call. In between, diners discover expertly prepared meals and impeccable service in a softly lit, elegant atmosphere with highclass white tablecloth dining in

T h e B o c a R at o n Ob s e r v e r

cozy, private booths or an energetic bar scene with live music. The restaurant’s distinctive touches are commendable: cloth bibs for diners eating crab entrees, colossal glass vases with spectacular orchids, chilled bottled water and color-coordinated napkins so lint will not mar patrons’ clothing. Wine isn’t an afterthought here: there are 100-plus offerings, many available as 2 oz. samples. Or try an “Around the World Flight” – four samples of compatible whites, reds or Champagnes accompanied by a detailed description of each wine. The excellence extends to the food. Ingredients are ones “that make sense for the plate, the palate, and the planet,” according to the restaurant’s Web site, including the house specialty, fresh stone crabs (the

popular lamb loin and an over-thetop,16-ounce prime hand-cut ribeye steak grilled precisely as ordered and topped with Maytag blue cheese, butter and red wine demi-glaze. Start with the simple, hefty crab cake, held together with a minimum of fresh breadcrumbs, allowing large pieces of delicately seasoned fresh crab to take centerstage. End with a luscious dessert, perhaps the award-winning fourlayer carrot cake or the decadent, edible semi-sweet chocolate bag, filled with pound cake, berries and chocolate chips, and topped with warm chocolate ganache, whipped cream and spiced pecans. Specials include a “date night” three-course menu ($35 per person), the half-price cocktail hour bar menu and Monday’s $54 allyou-can-eat stone crab dinner. O

taste

review The Dish on Food, Wine & Restaurants // Fine Fixings:

The Melting Pot offers an array of tasty options

Fondue For You Take A Delicious Dip At The Melting Pot By Linda Haase

inner at The Melting Pot is a swirling, bubbling, flambéing adventure. The adage at this Zagat award-winning Boca Raton eatery is “dip into something delicious” – and it delivers with panache.

patient staffers offer excellent suggestions, ensuring guests mix and match the perfect combos.

Owner Bill Schmearer

The food’s scrumptious, but the exhilarating experience of cooking it in aromatic concoctions seasoned and blended tableside puts it over the top. Diners are encouraged to linger and enjoy – and the attentive service, soft lighting and cozy booths make it easy to lose track of time (and how much you’ve consumed). The vast menu seems daunting (so many delicious options!) but the 108

Diners who order the Big Night Out signature dish embark on a fourcourse themed culinary journey of items from various destinations (including recipes from the Alps, the birthplace of fondue) which change every six months. Other items are just as enticing: Entrees include succulent lobster tail, melt-in-yourmouth N.Y. strip steak, cedar-plank salmon, shrimp, chicken, ravioli and duck, along with land and sea and vegetarian combos. And, do you desire your entree cooked in a bold, citrusy Caribbean-seasoned bouillon, a Coq au Vin-seasoned vegetable broth with herbs, mushrooms, garlic, spices and burgundy wine, bourguigonne style in canola oil or in a homemade,

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seasoned vegetable broth? Six cheese fondues, served with bread, veggies and apples, include Cheddar cheese infused with Mexican herbs, spices, jalapeño peppers and salsa and the Wisconsin Cheese Trio, a blend of Fontina, Butterkase and Buttermilk Blue with white wine, scallions and a hint of sherry. The innovative salad options are plentiful (no boring iceberg wedges here); the dressings, including a tangy/sweet, warm burgundy shallot vinaigrette, are delightful. And don’t forget the wine list: There are more than 300 labels from which to choose. Dessert here is the pièce de résistance: sumptuous, warm, velvety chocolate (nine choices include chocolate with Amaretto and chocolate melted with marshmallow cream and graham

crackers), served with creamy cheesecake, fresh strawberries, bananas, marshmallows and other luscious delicacies for dipping. The Melting Pot offers frequent specials, including this month’s “6 Days of Cupid” Valentine’s menu featuring an array of options with roses and champagne. O

where The Melting Pot offers Club Fondue, where members receive advance notice of events and specials. The restaurant is located at 5455 N. Federal Hwy., Boca Raton. For more information, call 561-997-7472 or visit meltingpot.com.

NOTHING SAYS "I LOVE YOU" LIKE A DOZEN HAMANTASHEN.

9OU DON T NEED A VASE 9OU DON T EVEN NEED WATER !LTHOUGH A VENTI DOUBLE SHOT HALF CAF EXTRA HOT VANILLA LATTE WOULD BE NICE 0URIM IS UPON US !ND YOU CAN BE CERTAIN THAT EVERYONE IN YOUR FAMILY WILL LOVE OUR FRESHLY BAKED APRICOT RASPBERRY AND PRUNE HAMANTASHEN !LL ARE BAKED UNTIL SLIGHTLY GOLDEN BROWN AND BURSTING WITH FRUITY FILLING 7HAT S NOT TO LOVE "UT IF YOU REALLY WANT TO WIN YOUR FAMILY OVER THIS HOLIDAY WE SUGGEST COOKING THEM A DINNER THEY LL NEVER FORGET "ETTER YET AND EVEN EASIER LET US TO DO ALL THE COOKING BY PICKING UP ONE OF OUR WONDERFULLY DELICIOUS GRAB AND GO ENTREES AT +OSHER -ARKETPLACE

.OT ONLY CAN YOU TAKE THEM HOME TO HEAT AND EAT BUT YOU CAN TAKE ALL THE CREDIT OF COOKING THEM TOO )N FACT OUR AWARD WINNING CHEFS ARE WORKING OVERTIME CREATING AND COOKING UP ALL KINDS OF SAVORY DISHES &ROM OUR CLASSIC SUNKIST STUFFED CHICKEN BREAST TO OUR SALMON APRICOT GLAZED WITH PECANS TO OUR SLOW BRAISED BRISKET OUR ENTREES WILL SURELY MAKE ANY MOUTH WATER 3O PICK UP A DOZEN HAMANTASHEN AND A FEW ENTREES ON YOUR WAY HOME 4HEY RE CERTAINLY A LOT TASTIER THAN FLOWERS C IRC LE C ATE RE R S

4HE 0ALMS 0LAZA s 0OWERLINE 2OAD s s KOSHERMARKET COM

taste

listings//

wThe Dish on Food, Wine & Restaurants american/STEAKHOUSES

BITES /

Abe & Louie’s4Glades Plaza

x 2300 W. Glades Rd. x Boca Raton x 561.447.0024 x Lunch Monday-Friday,

Dinner nightly, Sunday Brunch. Absinthe4Shops at Boca Center x 5150 Town Center Circle x Boca Raton x 561.620.3754 x Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner daily. Banyan Bar & Grille at the Addison 42 E. Camino Real x Boca

Raton x 561.395.9335 x Dinner nightly. Bogart’s Bar & Grille4

Cinemark Palace 20 x 3200 Airport Rd. x 561.544.3044 x Lunch and Dinner daily. Bonefish Grill4Boca Grove

Shopping Center x 21065 Powerline Rd. x 561.479.0411 x Dinner daily. Brewzzi4Glades Plaza x 2222 Glades Rd. x Boca Raton x 561.392.2739 x Lunch and Dinner daily. Brooks Restaurant4500 South Federal Hwy. x Deerfield Beach x 954.427.9302 x Dinner Tuesday-Sunday in season, offseason Wednesday-Sunday. The Capital Grille46000

Glades Rd. x Boca Raton x x Lunch MondayFriday, Dinner nightly.

561.368.1077

Carmen’s4Boca Raton Bridge Resort x 999 Camino Real x Boca Raton x 561.368.9500 x Dinner Wednesday-Saturday, Brunch Sunday. Chops Lobster Bar4101

Turkish Delight Enjoy Rauf’s Anatolia Mediterranean Nights In Boca Raton

here’s a great new spot in town for unique Turkish cuisine and down-home Mediterranean hospitality. Familyowned and -operated Rauf's Anatolia Mediterranean Nights serves Shish Kebab, Chicken Kebab Adana, Beyti and other authentic dishes with a twist, thanks to Chef/Owner Rauf’s marinating technique and secret ingredients. The diverse menu also features Chef Rauf’s take on breads, soups, salads, Turkish-style pizzas, grilled main courses and vegetarian dishes such as Spinach Sautee, Falafel, Fried Zucchini and an array of cold appetizers. And don’t forget the desserts and assorted fruit plates; it’s a Turkish tradition to eat fruit after meals, followed by Turkish coffee (it’s widely believed in Turkey that coffee is the best digestive post-meal drink). There’s also a full bar (or bring your favorite wine); on weekends there’s a deejay or live music, as well as belly dancing. For a genuine Turkish experience, Hookah is served on the outdoor terrace (an instrument for smoking tobacco, in which smoke is cooled and filtered by passing though water). Not only is this place reasonably priced, but portions are generous and it's open until 2 a.m. For more information, call 561-361-5783 or visit anatolianights.com.

Cut 4324432 E. Atlantic Ave. x Delray Beach x 561.272.9898 x Dinner nightly. Dada452 North Swinton Ave. x Delray Beach x 561.330.3232 x Dinner nightly.

561.395.2675

DUFFY's SPORTS BAR & GRILL4401 N. Federal Hwy. x

Copper Canyon Grill42006

Deerfield Beach x 954.429.8820 x Lunch and Dinner daily.

Plaza Real South x Boca Raton x x Dinner nightly.

N.W. Executive Center Circle x Boca Raton x 561.893.8838 x Lunch and Dinner daily.

Falcon House4116 N.E. Sixth Ave. x Delray Beach x 561.243.9499 x Dinner nightly.

Grand Lux Café4Town

Center x 6000 Glades Rd. x Boca Raton x 561.392.2141 x Lunch and Dinner daily.

4199 N. Federal Hwy. x Boca Raton x 561.395.6033 x Lunch Monday-Friday, Dinner MondaySaturday.

Henry’s4The Shoppes at

Kee Grill417940 N. Military Tr. x Boca Raton x 561.995.5044 x Dinner nightly.

45101 Congress Ave. x Boca Raton x 561.912.9800 x Lunch Monday-Friday, Dinner Monday-Saturday.

Addison Place x 16850 Jog Rd. x Delray Beach x 561.638.1949 x Lunch Monday-Friday, Dinner nightly.

Fifth Avenue Grill4821 S.E.

Deerfield Beach x 954.421.9272 x Lunch and Dinner daily.

Fifth Ave. x Delray Beach x 561.265.0122 x Lunch and Dinner daily.

Hooters 4Glades Plaza x 2440 N.W. 19th St. x Boca Raton x 561.391.8903 x Lunch and Dinner daily.

Cugini Steakhouse and Martini Bar4270 E. Atlantic

Gaucho Rodizio44060 N.

Houston’s41900 N.W.

110

Federal Hwy. x Lighthouse Point x x Dinner daily. Closed Mondays. 954.784.7667

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Kathy’s Gazebo Cafe4

The Grille on Congress

The Cove Marina & Restaurant41754 S.E. 3rd Ct. x

Ave. x Delray Beach x 561.274.6244 x Dinner nightly.

J. Alexander’s41400 Glades Rd. x Boca Raton x 561.347.9875 x Lunch and Dinner daily.

Executive Center Circle x Boca Raton x 561.998.0550 x Lunch and Dinner daily.

Lucille’s Bad to the Bone BBQ4Regency Court x 3011 Yamato

Rd. x Boca Raton x 561.997.9557 x Lunch and Dinner daily. Mariposa4Neiman Marcus at Town Center x 5860 Glades Rd. x Boca Raton x 561.544.2320 x Lunch daily, Dinner Friday and Saturday.

taste

listings//

wThe Dish on Food, Wine & Restaurants

BITES / Gastro Goodness Doing Time At The Office

elray Beach foodies have a new gastropub: The Office, restaurateur David Manero’s new eatery, features a casually upscale ambiance and redefined classic-American cuisine by award-winning Executive Chef Mark Militello. “We are devoted to creating memorable dishes, with a complexity of flavors and textures, in a fun, energized environment that taps into the sixth sense,” says Manero, a 30-year industry veteran who also owns Vic & Angelo's in Delray Beach and Palm Beach Gardens, as well as DeVito South Beach in Miami Beach. “We have created this concept from scratch – reinterpreting the American gastropub – and there’s nothing in Florida like The Office. God is in the details.” Located in the former Louie Louie space, the restaurant is designed to reflect Atlantic Avenue’s lively streetscape, replete with an indoor/outdoor bar that opens onto a wrap-around patio dotted with palm trees. Inside, interior designer Lynn Manero created the look of an inviting home library – with a contemporary twist. Picture rich leather banquettes, bookfilled mahogany shelves and herringbone-patterned wood floors (reminiscent of Charlie Brown’s shirt) punctuated with purple-and-black leopard carpeting and red Italian leather chairs. There’s a mahogany wood-topped bar, from which an array of boutique beers, fine wines and cool cocktails are served. It’s in the stainless-steel open kitchen that renowned Chef Militello serves globally influenced dishes such as Seared Miso-Glazed Black Cod, Tuna Tartare Tacos and Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread. Other noteworthy items include Grass-fed Short Ribs, spicy Asian Chicken Wings, Duck Prosciutto Salad, Roasted Beef Marrow and Braised Pork Belly. The restaurant’s motto: “It’s one thing to have a famous chef’s name on a restaurant; it’s quite another to have him cooking your meal.” Find out for yourself.

The Office is located at 201 East Atlantic Avenue in Delray Beach. For more information, call 561-2763600 or visit theofficedelray.com.

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taste

Rauf Ziya, former Chef of Anatolia Mediterranean Cuisine invites you to his newest creation…

listings

natoli A A Rauf’s

Mediterranean Nights

Max’s Grille4Mizner Park x 404 Plaza

Real x Boca Raton x 561.368.0080 x Lunch and Dinner daily, Saturday-Sunday Brunch only. Miller’s Boca East Ale House 4

Shoppes at Blue Lake x 1200 Yamato Rd. x Boca Raton x 561.988.9142 x Lunch and Dinner daily. Miller’s Boca West Ale House4

Boca Lyons Plaza x 9244 W. Glades Road x Boca Raton x 561.487.2989 x Lunch and Dinner daily. Morton’s, The Steakhouse4 Shops

at Boca Center x 5050 Town Center Circle x Boca Raton x 561.392.7724 x Dinner nightly. New York Prime42350 N.W. Executive Center Dr. x Boca Raton x 561.998.3881 x Dinner nightly. The Office4201 E. Atlantic Ave. x Delray Beach x 561.276.3600 x Lunch and Dinner daily. The Pavilion Grille4301 Yamato Rd. x Boca Raton x 561.912.0000 x Lunch Tuesday-Friday, Dinner Tuesday-Saturday.

47050 W. Palmetto Park Rd. x Boca Raton x 561.391.6601 x Dinner daily.

Porterhouse Bar & Grill

Turkish Specialties Full Bar Live Entertainment With Belly Dancer On Friday & Saturday Hookah Private Parties Catering Available

Ruth’s Chris Steak House 4225 N.E. Mizner Blvd. x Boca Raton x 561.392.6746 x Dinner nightly. Seasons 5242300 N.W. Executive Center Dr. x Boca Raton x 561.998.9952 x Lunch and Dinner daily. Six Tables4112 N.E. Second St. x Boca Raton x 561.347.6260 x Dinner Tuesday-Saturday. Sonoma Cafe & Bistro4

640 E. Atlantic Ave. x Delray Beach x 561.243.8581 x Dinner Monday-Saturday. Temple Orange4The Ritz Carlton,

Palm Beach x 100 S. Ocean Blvd. x Manalapan x 561.533.6000 x Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner daily.

ROYAL PALM PLACE � 507 SE MIZNER BLVD.

561.361.5783 LUNCH & DINNER MONDAY-SUNDAY

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The Sundy House4106 S. Swinton Ave. x Delray Beach x 561.272.5678 x Lunch Tuesday-Saturday, Dinner Tuesday-Sunday, Brunch Sunday. III Forks Prime Steakhouse4 200 E. Palmetto Park Rd. x Boca Raton x 561.416.2185 x Dinner nightly.

taste

listings

Vinnyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s All Day Cafe4Regency Court

x 3013 Yamato Rd. x Boca Raton x 561.988.9883 x Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner daily. Watercolors Cafe4Boca Raton

Bridge Hotel x 999 E. Camino Real x Boca Raton x 561.368.9500 x Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner nightly. Wild Olives by Todd English 4The

Shops at Boca Center x 5050 Town Center Circle x Boca Raton x 561.544.8000 x Lunch and Dinner daily.

asian/sushi 5 Spice Asian Street Market4

Shoppes of Blue Lake x Suite A1 x 1200 Yamato Rd. x Boca Raton x 561.989.1688 x Lunch and Dinner daily. Asia Sushi/Wok/Grill47600

Camino Real x Boca Raton x 561.544.8100 x Lunch Monday-Friday, Dinner nightly except Friday Bangkok in Boca4Royal Palm Place x 500 Via de Palmas x Boca Raton x 561.394.6912 x Lunch Monday-Friday, Dinner nightly. Bluefin Sushi Thai Grill4

861 Yamato Rd. x Boca Raton x 561.981.8986 x Lunch Monday-Friday, Dinner nightly. The Blue Fish4110 E. Atlantic Ave. x Delray Beach x 561.330.FISH (3474) x Lunch Wednesday-Saturday, Dinner nightly. Cay Da Vietnamese47400 N. Federal Hwy. x Boca Raton x 561.998.0278 x Lunch Tuesday-Friday, Dinner Tuesday-Sunday. Chow4Royal Palm Place x 309 Via De

Palmas x Boca Raton x 561.392.3499 x Dinner Monday-Saturday. Daimatsu Sushi441 Royal Palm Place x

Boca Raton x 561.361.7557 x Lunch MondayFriday, Dinner nightly. Edo Sushi-Upscale Japanese Sushi & Pan-Asian Buffet4 Waterway Shoppes

of Parkland x 7609 N. State Road 7 x Parkland x 954.755.3191 x Lunch and Dinner daily. Fah Asian Bistro4Boca Valley

Shopping Plaza x 7401 N. Federal Hwy. x Boca Raton x 561.241.0400 x Lunch Monday-Saturday, Dinner nightly.

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1/22/10 9:35:24 AM

Enjoy Maine Lobster You don't need to be from Maine to

Introducing Linda Bean's Perfect Maine™ Lobster Roll. Treat yourself to the next "Great American Sandwich", Linda Bean's Perfect Maine™ Lobster Roll. A butter toasted roll stuffed with a full quarter pound of fresh, wild caught, lobster meat directly from Linda's Maine wharves.

taste

listings

Fuji4Palms Plaza x 22191 Powerline Rd. x Boca Raton x 561.392.8778 x Lunch Monday-Friday, Dinner nightly. Gary Woo Asian Bistro4 3400 N. Federal Hwy. x Boca Raton x 561.368.8803 x Lunch Monday-Friday, Dinner nightly. House of Siam425 N.E. Second Ave.,

#116 x Delray Beach x 561.330.9191 x Lunch Monday-Friday, Dinner nightly. Ichiban4Somerset Shoppes x 8841 Glades

Rd. x Boca Raton x 561.451.2429 x Lunch and Dinner daily.

Japango4Riverstone Shoppes of

Parkland x 7367 N. State Road 7 x Parkland x 954.345.4268 x Regency Court x 3011 Yamato Rd. x Boca Raton x 561.999.1263 x Lunch Monday-Friday, Dinner nightly. Kyoto Sushi Sake425 N.E. Second

Ave. x Delray Beach x 561.330.2275 x Lunch Monday-Friday, Dinner nightly. Kyojin Buffet4Shops at Boca Grove x 21073 Powerline Rd. x Boca Raton x 561.218.1708 x Lunch and Dinner daily. La Tre4249 E. Palmetto Park Rd. x Boca Raton x 561.392.4568 x Dinner nightly.

Mai Hibachi44801 Linton Blvd. x Delray Beach x 561.499.2766 x Lunch and Dinner daily. PEI WEI41914 N.E. Fifth Ave. x Boca Raton x 561. 226.0290 x Lunch and Dinner daily. P.F. Chang’s China Bistro4 1400 Glades Rd. x Boca Raton x 561.393.3722 x Lunch and Dinner daily.

Linda Bean's Perfect Maine™ Lobster Roll is now open late morning to late night offering the very best Maine lobster dishes that include: steamed lobsters, lobster Panini sandwich, lobster stew, fresh salads and Linda's famous “Pause for Claws.”

LemonGrass Asian Bistro4 420 E. Atlantic Ave. x Delray Beach x 561.278.5050 x Lunch and Dinner daily. 4101 Plaza Real South E. Boca Raton x 561.544.8181 x Lunch and Dinner daily.

200 East Atlantic Avenue • Delray Beach • Florida, 33444 11 am - 9pm Sun.-Thurs 11am - 12am Fri.-Sat. 561-276-2502

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Phuket Thai4Palms Plaza x 22191 Powerline Rd. x Boca Raton x 561.447.8863 x Lunch Monday-Friday, Dinner nightly. Saba4499 S. Federal Hwy. x Boca Raton x 561.353.4600 x Lunch Monday-Friday, Dinner nightly. Saito’s Japanese Steakhouse 48316

Jog Rd. x Boynton Beach x 561.369.1788 x Lunch Monday-Friday, Dinner nightly. 4CityPlace x 700 S. Rosemary Ave., #208 x 561.296.8881 x Lunch and Dinner daily.4Palm Beach Gardens x 4675 PGA Blvd. x 561.202.6888 x Lunch and Dinner daily.

Villa Rosano Revised.qxp

1/14/10

4:32 PM

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listings

Soba Sushi Caviar Lounge4

Mizner Park x 415 Plaza Real x Boca Raton x 561.620.0606 x Lunch Monday-Saturday, Dinner nightly. Stir Crazy fresh asian grillTown Center x 6000 Glades Rd. x Boca Raton x 561.338.7500 x Lunch and Dinner daily. Sushi Masa47140 Beracasa Way x Boca

Raton x 561.395.8862 x Dinner nightly. Sushi Ray4Shops at Boca Center x 5250 Town Center Circle x Boca Raton x 561.394.9506 x Lunch Monday-Friday, Dinner nightly. SUSHI THAI4100 N.E. Second St. x Boca Raton 561.750.4448 x Lunch and Dinner daily.

CHEF FRANK ROSANO Exclusively at Villa Rosano

Sushi Zen422191 Powerline Rd. x Boca

Raton x 561.392.8778 x Lunch MondayFriday, Dinner nightly. Taisho420423 State Road 7 x

COME TASTE OUR NEW MENU

Monday-Saturday Lunch 11:30-2:30

Dinner Every Evening 5-10

V I S I T U S O N T H E W E B AT W W W. V I L L A R O S A N O. C O M

Boca Raton x 561.479.0041 x Lunch Monday-Friday, Dinner nightly. Tempura House4The Reserve x

9858 Clint Moore Rd. x Boca Raton x x Lunch and Dinner daily.

561.883.6088

Uncle Tai’s4Shops at Boca Center x

5250 Town Center Circle x Boca Raton x Monday-Saturday, Dinner nightly.

561.368.8806 x Lunch

Yokohama49168 Glades Rd. x Boca Raton x 561.451.1707 x Lunch Monday-Friday, Dinner nightly.

CONTINENTAL Bistro Provence42399 N. Federal Hwy. x Boca Raton x 561.368.2340 x Dinner nightly. Boheme Bistro41118 E. Atlantic Ave. x Delray Beach x 561.278.4899 x Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner daily. Cielo by Angela Hartnett4Boca

Raton Resort & Club x 501 E. Camino Real x 561.447.3222 x Dinner Wednesday-Sunday. Greenfield’s on Atlantic45199 W.

Atlantic Ave. x Delray Beach x 561.498.5010 x Dinner nightly. La Cigale4253 S.E. Fifth Ave. x Delray

Beach x 561.265.0600 x Dinner nightly. Le French Bistro4Parkland Town

Center x 6676 Parkside Drive x Parkland x x Dinner nightly.

954.755.0708

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W E I N V I T E YO U

T Ă&#x2026; Ă&#x2026;

Â o Unleash

Le Pavillon414812 S.E. Military Tr. x

Delray Beach x 561.499.9882 x Dinner nightly. Le Rivage4450 N.E. 20th St. x Boca

Raton x 561.620.0033 x Lunch WednesdayFriday, Dinner Monday-Saturday.

The Shoppes at Addison Place x 16950 Jog Rd. x Delray Beach x 561.496.5652 x Lunch Monday-Friday, Dinner daily.

4170 W. Camino Real x Boca Raton x 561.368.7910 x Dinner nightly.

Tiramisu

Olio Bistro442 S.E. Second Ave. x Delray Beach x 561.278.6633 x Lunch Tuesday-Friday, Dinner Tuesday-Saturday. St. Tropez47000 W. Camino Real x Boca

Raton x 561.368.8580 x Lunch Monday-Friday, Dinner nightly.

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Lola Restaurant and UltraLounge4

C O M E S W I R L , S I P A N D S AV O R O V E R 3 5 0 W I N E S .

Tea-Licious Tearoom & Gifts4

4997-B W. Atlantic Ave. x Delray Beach x 561.638.5155 x Breakfast and Lunch, Monday-Saturday ZED4514201 Plaza Real x Boca Raton x 561.393.3451 x Dinner nightly, Lounge nightly,

Brunch Sunday.

Fondue The Melting Pot45455 N. Federal

6000 Glades Road, Boca Raton Âˇ 561 368 1077 Âˇ thecapitalgrille.com

AGENCY: JOB#: SIZE: EXPORTS: CONTACT:

THE CAPITAL GRILLE PRODUCT: AD 618 JOB TITLE: BOCA RATON OBSERVER 4.75" X 4.75â&#x20AC;? INSERTIONS: FEB 2010 PRODUCTION@BOCARATONOBSERVER.COM LISA WINTERS, GRAPHIC DESIGNER - 407.245.4439 MATTHEW MILEWSKI, MARKETING MANAGER - 407.245.5756 *PLEASE DO NOT BACK WITH DARK ADS.

Hwy. x Boca Raton x 561.997.7472 x Dinner nightly.

Italian Anthonyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Coal Fired Pizza4Shops

at Boca Grove x 21065 Powerline Rd. x Boca Raton x 561.218.66004115 N.E. Sixth Ave. x Delray Beach x 561.273.9898 x Lunch and Dinner daily. Arturoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ristorante46750 N.

Federal Hwy. x Boca Raton x 561.997.7373 x Lunch Monday- Friday, Dinner nightly. Basil Garden45837 N. Federal Hwy. x

Boca Raton x 561.994.2554 x Dinner Tuesday-Sunday. Bova Cucina41901 N. Military Tr. x Boca Raton x 561.392.5595 x Lunch Monday-Friday, Dinner Monday-Saturday. Bova Prime4401 E. Las Olas Blvd. x Fort Lauderdale x 954.767.6555 x Lunch Monday-Friday, Dinner nightly.

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Cafe Bellino4180 S. Federal Hwy. x

Boca Raton x 561.393.2844 x Dinner Tuesday-Sunday. Caffe Luna Rosa434 S. Ocean Blvd. x Delray Beach x 561.274.9404 x Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner daily. California Pizza Kitchen4Town Center x 6000 Glades Rd. x Boca Raton x 561.268.2805 x Lunch and Dinner daily.

BEST KEPT SECRET IN BOCA

Carrabba’s Italian Grill4Wharfside

Plaza x 6909 S.W. 18th St. x Boca Raton x

561.544.8838 x Lunch and Dinner daily 4335 E. Linton Blvd. x Delray Beach x 561.266.9393 x

Lunch Monday-Saturday, Dinner nightly. Casa D’Angelo4171 E. Palmetto Park Rd.

x Boca Raton x 561.338.1703 x Dinner nightly.

5101 CONGRESS AVENUE • BOCA RATON, FL 33487 • 561-912-9800 RESERVATIONS SUGGESTED Monday-Friday 11:30 A.M. – 10:00 P.M. • Saturday 5:00 P.M. – 10:00 P.M.

Coal Mine Pizza4Royal Palm Place x 399 S.E. Mizner Blvd. x Boca Raton x 561.826.2625 x Lunch and Dinner daily. Cucina Mio4Shoppes at Addison Place x 16950 Jog Rd. x Delray Beach x 561.499.9419 x Lunch Monday-Saturday, Dinner nightly. Ferraro’s48208 Glades Rd. x Boca Raton 561.477.2750 x Lunch Monday-Saturday, Dinner Sunday-Saturday.

Giovanni’s Coal Fire Pizza4

Waterway Shoppes at Parkland x 7625 N. State Road 7 x Parkland x 954.345.9282 x Lunch and Dinner daily. Il Bacio429 S.E. Second Ave. x Delray

Beach x 561.865.7783 x Dinner WednesdaySunday. Il Girasole4Tropic Square x 1911 S.

Federal Hwy. x Delray Beach x 561.272.3566 x Dinner Tuesday-Sunday. Josephine’s Italian Restaurant4

5751 N. Federal Hwy. x Boca Raton x 561.988.0668 x Dinner Tuesday-Sunday. LaStellas Restaurant and Catering 4159 E. Palmetto Park Rd. x

Boca Raton x 561.544.2081. x Dinner Tuesday-Saturday La Luna Bistro4The Polo Shoppes x 5030 Champion Blvd. x Boca Raton x 561.997.1165 x Lunch Monday-Friday, Dinner nightly. La Villetta Restaurant & Lounge4

4351 N. Federal Hwy. x Boca Raton x 561.362.8403 x Dinner Tuesday-Sunday.

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listings

Catering

Call For Details And Menu Selections Monday-Saturday 10-4 Ask About Our Wine & Champagne Selections 4997-B W. Atlantic Avenue Delray Beach, FL 33445 Northeast Corner Of Atlantic & Military 561-638-5155 www.TeaLiciousTearoom.com

LILLY’S4451 East Palmetto Park Rd. x Boca Raton x 561.362.0208 x Lunch Monday-Friday, Dinner daily. Maggiano’s421090 St. Andrews Blvd. x Boca Raton x 561.361.8244 x Lunch and Dinner daily. Matteo’s Restaurant4233 S. Federal Hwy. x Boca Raton x 561.392.0773 x Lunch Monday-Friday, Dinner daily. Peace A Pizza4Shoppes at Blue Lake x

1200 Yamato Rd. x Boca Raton x 561.998. x Lunch and Dinner daily.

BEST (2378)

Positano44400 N. Federal Hwy. x Boca Raton x 561.544.2920 x Dinner nightly. Renzo’s of Boca45999 N. Federal

Hwy. x Boca Raton x 561.994.3495 x Lunch Monday-Friday, Dinner nightly. Rino Vesuvio43360 N. Federal Hwy. x Boca Raton x 561.368.5520 x Dinner Tuesday-Saturday. Ristorante Sapori4Royal Palm Place

x 99 Royal Palm Place x Boca Raton x x Lunch Monday-Friday, Dinner nightly. 561.367.9779

Rosario’s Ristorante4Royal Palm Place x 145 S.E. Mizner Blvd. x Boca Raton x 561.393.0758 x Dinner nightly. Saporissimo4366 E. Palmetto Park Rd. x Boca Raton x 561.750.2333 x Dinner nightly. Times Square Pizzeria – The Italian Grill Restaurant4Shoppes at Village

Pointe x 6006 S.W. 18th St. x Boca Raton x 561.393.6757 x Lunch Monday-Saturday, Dinner nightly. Tramonti4119 E. Atlantic Ave. x Delray Beach x 561.272.1944 x Lunch Monday-Saturday, Dinner nightly. Trattoria Romana4499 E. Palmetto

Park Rd. x Boca Raton x 561.393.6715 x Dinner nightly. VIC AND ANGELO’S 4290 E. Atlantic

Ave. x Delray Beach x 561.278.9570 x Lunch and Dinner Wednesday-Sunday. Villagio Italian Eatery 4Mizner Park x 344 Plaza Real x Boca Raton x 561.447.2257 x Lunch and Dinner daily. Villa Rosano4The Reserve x 9858 Clint Moore Rd. x Boca Raton x 561.470.0112 x Lunch Monday-Saturday, Dinner nightly.

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taste

listings

Vino Wine Bar and Italian Tapas4

114 N.E. Second St. x Boca Raton x 561.869.0030 x Dinner Monday-Saturday.

LATIN/CARIBBEAN Argentango4Royal Palm Place x 508 Via De Palmas x Boca Raton x 561.416.2213 x Dinner nightly. Caribbean Grill41332 N.W. Second Ave. x Boca Raton x 561.362.0161 x Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner daily. Cuban Cafe Restaurant43350 N.W.

Boca Raton Blvd. x Boca Raton x 561.750.8860 x Lunch Monday-Friday, Dinner nightly (closed Sunday June-November). Cabana El Rey4105 E. Atlantic Ave. x Delray Beach x 561.274.9090 x Lunch and Dinner daily.

Gol, Taste of Brazil4411 E. Atlantic Ave. x Delray Beach x 561.272.6565 x Dinner nightly. INCA GRILL447 E. Palmetto Park Rd. x Boca Raton x 561.395.3553 x Lunch Saturday-Sunday, Dinner Tuesday-Friday.

44631 State Road 7 x Ste. 26 x Coral Springs x 954.755.0941 x Lunch and Dinner daily.

Medellin Restaurant

Old Calypso4900 E. Atlantic Ave. x Delray Beach x 561.279.2300 x Lunch Monday-Friday, Dinner nightly, Brunch Saturday and Sunday. Padrino’s4Mission Bay Plaza x 20455 State Road 7 x Boca Raton x 561.451.1070 x Lunch and Dinner daily. Pineapple Grille4Palm Trail Plaza x 800 Palm Tr. x Delray Beach x 561.265.1368 x Lunch Monday-Saturday, Dinner TuesdaySunday, Brunch Sunday.

mexican Baja Cafe Uno4201 N.W. First Ave. x Boca Raton x 561.394.5449 x41310 S. Federal Hwy. x Deerfield Beach x 954.596.1305 x Lunch Monday-Saturday, Dinner nightly. Cantina Cabo4The Reserve x 9858 Clint Moore Rd. x Boca Raton x 561.477.1899 x Lunch and Dinner daily. MoQuila Mexican Restaurant & Tequila Bar499 S.E. Mizner Blvd. x

Boca Raton x 561.394.9990 x Dinner nightly.

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listings

Rocco’s Tacos And Tequila Bar4Boca Center Shopping Plaza x

5250 Town Center Circle x Boca Raton x 561.416.2131 x Lunch and Dinner daily.

NEW YORK DELI

FLORIDA STYLE

Señor Burrito4513 N.E. 20th St. x Boca Raton x 561.347.6600 x Lunch and Dinner daily. Uncle Julio’s4Mizner Park x 449 Plaza Real x Boca Raton x 561.300.3530 x Lunch and Dinner daily, Brunch Saturday and Sunday.

Organic The Green Gourmet4The Shoppes

at Addison Place x 16950 Jog Rd. x Delray Beach x 561.455.2466 x Dinner nightly.

sandwiches/DELI Ben’s NY kosher Deli4The Reserve x 9942

Clint Moore Rd. x Boca Raton x 561.470.9963 x Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner daily. Boca Dolce Bakery & Café4Lakeside Centre x 8202 Glades Rd. x Boca Raton x 561.479.4011 x Breakfast and Lunch daily.

BOCA RATON Glades Plaza (561) 392-4181 Regency Court Plaza (561) 997-9911 • Polo Shops (561) 241-5903

The Gelato Shop Perini (kosher)4

8177 Glades Rd. x Boca Raton x 561.716.0389 x Lunch Sunday-Friday, Dinner Saturday and Sunday. Grill Time (kosher)48177 Glades

Rd. x Boca Raton x 561.482.3699 x Lunch and Dinner Sunday-Thursday, Closed Friday-Saturday. Kosher Marketplace422191 Powerline Rd., #5A x Boca Raton x 561.391.3318 x Sunday-Friday, Closed Saturday. Old School Bakery & Cafe4

814 E. Atlantic Ave. x Delray Beach x 561.276.0013 x Breakfast and Lunch daily.

4Polo Shops x 5030 Champion Blvd. x Boca Raton x 561.241.590342200 Glades Rd., #700 x Boca Raton x 561.392.4181 4Regency Court x 3013 Yamato Rd. x Boca Raton x 561.997.9911 x Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner daily. Toojay’s Gourmet Deli

seafood Atlantic Fish Grill414820 Military Tr. x Delray Beach x 561.638.8338 x Lunch and Dinner daily. Boston’s on the Beach440 S.

Ocean Blvd. x Delray Beach x 561.278.3364 x Breakfast Saturday-Sunday, Lunch and Dinner daily.

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Busch’s Seafood4840 E. Atlantic Ave. x Delray Beach x 561.278.7600 x Lunch Saturday-Sunday, Dinner nightly. CITY FISH MARKET47940 Glades Rd. x Boca Raton x 561.487.1600 x Lunch and Dinner daily. City Oyster4213 E. Atlantic Ave. x Delray Beach x 561.272.0220 x Lunch Monday-Saturday, Dinner nightly. Finz Raw Bar & Grill4710 Linton

Blvd. x Delray Beach x 561.272.1960 x Lunch and Dinner daily. Harpoon Louie’s42096 N.W. Second

St. x Deerfield Beach x 954.437.7888 x Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner daily. JB's On The Beach4300 N. Ocean

Blvd. x Deerfield Beach x 954.571.5220 x Lunch and Dinner daily. J & J Seafood Bar & Grill4

634 E. Atlantic Ave. x Delray Beach x 561.272.3390 x Lunch Tuesday-Saturday, Dinner Sunday only. Jake’s Stone Crab4Royal Palm Plaza x 514 Via de Palmas x Boca Raton x 561.347.1055 x Lunch Friday-Sunday, Dinner nightly. Legal Sea Foods4Town Center x

6000 W. Glades Rd. x Boca Raton x x Lunch and Dinner daily.

561.447.2112

McCormick & Schmick’s4

University Commons x 1400 Glades Rd. x Boca Raton x 561.394.2428 x Lunch and Dinner daily, Brunch Sunday. 32 East432 E. Atlantic Ave. x Delray

Beach x 561.276.7868 x Dinner nightly. Truluck’s4Mizner Park x 351 Plaza Real x

Boca Raton x 561.391.0755 x Dinner nightly. The Whale Raw Bar & Fish House47619 State Road 7 x Parkland x 954.345.9190

x Lunch and Dinner daily.

Turkish/Mediterranean Rauf’s Anatolia Mediterranean Nights4Royal Palm Place x 507 S.E.

Mizner Blvd. x Boca Raton x 561.361.5783 Lunch and Dinner, Monday-Sunday. O

www.SalvatorePrincipe.com | 561.278.1557 200 NE 2nd Ave Suite 106 Delray Beach, FL 33444 128

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For more information on our Dining Guide, please call 561.982.8960 or e-mail sales@bocaratonobserver.com

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FEBRUARY 2010

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Virtual 3D Takes Web Site Design and 3D Animation To A New Level Company Is Oldest Of Its Kind In The State

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avid Karram started Virtual 3D in 1996 with one employee who he hired from a virtual reality gaming company. Today, he works with a team of 12 that has produced more than 450 Web sites and 800 three-dimensional animations.

tual 3D creates Web sites for any type of company, anywhere in the world. We’re on our seventh project in the Bahamas. We do a lot of island work.”

“Back then, virtual reality was not that well known,” explains David Karram, 39. “Now, our company (in Boca Raton) is known as the oldest architectural animation company in the state of Florida.”

The company develops sites starting at $3,000 up to $100,000. “Four of our featured sites (of which Karram is most proud) are: bugatchiuomo. com, balmoralbahamas.com, sfrealty.com and newstudiollc.com.”

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Virtual 3D is located at 720 E. Palmetto Park Road in Boca Raton. Their phone number is 561-394-8598. Their Web site is virtual3dinc.com. 130

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Karram looks forward to continued success in the future. “We have plans to expand to other major cities,” he reveals. O

A LA CIRQUE

DONNA KLEIN JEWISH ACADEMY’S

26TH GALA & AUCTION MARCH 13, 2010 AT 8 P.M. POLO CLUB BOCA RATON

Honorary Chairperson LINDA R. KAMINOW Gala Chairpersons JILL AND YORI GALEL EVENT SPONSOR

Honoree KAREN FELLER, DKJA Head of School Recipient of the Linda R. Kaminow Visionary Leadership Award

The cost to attend is $250 per person. EXCLUSIVE MEDIA SPONSOR

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HAPPENINGS the essential social digest ; Around town ; flash ; calendar

Karen Feller, DKJA Head of School Recipient of the 2010 Linda R. Kaminow Visionary Leadership Award

Jill and Yori Galel

onna Klein Jewish Academy’s (DKJA) 26th Gala and Auction, themed “Paint The Town Red A La Cirque,” is scheduled for March 13th at the Polo Club Boca Raton. This year marks DKJA’s 30th anniversary, as well as the 26th anniversary of the gala. The school’s inaugural benefit ball was held April 14, 1985, and has since become an annual tradition of celebration in support of the school. Guests will dine, dance and bid on live and silent auction items at the gala. During the evening, DKJA will bestow upon Head of School Karen Feller the Linda R. Kaminow Visionary Leadership Award. Feller has

Linda R. Kaminow

Paint The Town DKJA’s 26th Gala & Auction Set For March 13th

served in an administrative capacity at DKJA for 11 years, and has been recognized for more than a decade for her guidance and leadership, enabling the school to become an internationally renowned K-12 Jewish

educational institution. Her vision and commitment to the school’s mission have enabled DKJA to reach many significant milestones, one of which was the relocation of the high school in the fall of 2009 from portables to a beautifully renovated building on the main school campus. This milestone was reached thanks to the generosity of Linda R. Kaminow, President of the Claire & Emanuel G. Rosenblatt Foundation, who arranged for a truly magnanimous gift that made the expansion project possible. Established in 1979, DKJA, a K-12 Jewish Community Day School located in Boca Raton, is proud to provide approximately $2.5 million

in need-based financial assistance to 40 percent of its students annually. Last year’s gala generated more than $400,000. The annual event is DKJA’s largest fund-raiser, with proceeds directly enhancing academic excellence at the school and providing assistance for financial programs. The event’s honorary chairperson is Linda R. Kaminow. Gala chairpersons are Jill and Yori Galel. The exclusive media sponsor is The Boca Raton Observer. The event sponsor is Boca Entertainment, and gala tickets are $250 per person. O

i For more information, call 561-852-3317 or visit dkja.org.

8 Around Town includes news about community and social events, parties, charities, fund-raisers, special recognitions and more. Have

Alonzo Mourning something you’d like us to include? For consideration, please e-mail no less than 450 words about the event, along with photos that include caption information, a phone number and a Web site address to editor@bocaratonobserver.com. Please write “Around Town” in the subject line, and note that submissions will be edited for clarity and length. Photos become the property of The Boca Raton Observer.

February 2010

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around town ;HAPPENINGS

Stand United AVDA’s Luncheon Features Victor Rivas Rivers

llustrating that domestic violence affects everyone – not just women – Aid to Victims of Domestic Abuse (AVDA), Inc. will welcome Victor Rivas Rivers, child advocate/author/actor, as guest speaker to its Third Annual Heart of a Woman Luncheon, scheduled for February 9th at the Royal Palm Yacht Club in Boca Raton. The luncheon will celebrate the strength, courage and determination of women.

Brenda Lewenstein

“Most men attended the luncheon previously because they knew the honoree or were in some way connected to AVDA. This speaker shows people that it can affect everyone. When you’re a young boy and see your dad abuse your mom, you don’t know any other way to express your feelings of frustration and anger.” – Brenda Lewenstein

Rivers, a veteran TV and film star, has a long list of successes – from being an athlete receiving a football scholarship at Florida State University and a free-agent pick with the Miami Dolphins to co-starring in projects alongside Eddie Murphy and Jon Lovitz. Cuban-born Rivers moved to the United States as a toddler and suffered a traumatic childhood in which he and his mother were abused by his father. He took legal action to become free at age 15 and went on to live with a series of foster families. During the luncheon, he’ll speak about his life, and why domestic violence is everyone’s issue. According to Brenda Lewenstein, board member and event chairwoman, this year’s event is attracting more male attendees. “Most men attended the luncheon previously because they knew the honoree or were in some way connected to AVDA. This speaker shows people that it can affect everyone. When you’re a young boy and see your dad abuse your mom, you don’t know any other way to express your feelings of frustration and anger.” During the event, honoree Rosemary Krieger of Boca Raton will be recognized for her many years of service to AVDA, which date back almost to the organization’s inception. All luncheon proceeds will benefit AVDA’s shelter, transitional housing at AVDA’s Casa Vegso and educational and prevention programs offered to the public, victims and their families. AVDA is a nonprofit organization that has been providing support to survivors of domestic violence for 24 years. Emergency shelter, a 24-hour hotline, transitional housing, legal advocacy, economic empowerment programs, counseling and violence prevention educational programs are some of the services offered to adult and child survivors of domestic violence. O

i For more information, call 561-265-3797 or visit avdaonline.org.

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around town ;HAPPENINGS

Movers And Shakers Lang Realty And Broken Sound Club Host Wharton Club Of South Florida

Lang Realty and Broken Sound Club recently hosted an engaging Real Estate event on December 2nd along with the Wharton Club of South Florida. The event featured Zell-Lurie Real Estate Center Associate Director and Lecturer Asuka Nakahara and Scott Agran, president of Lang Reality, in a powerful discussion entitled, “The Real Estate Market in a Down Economy”.

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Yasmine Zyne, John Crean, Scott Agran and Asuka Nakahara

More than 90 Wharton alumni and friends enjoyed Nakahara’s infamous combination of economic analysis and real world application at the Boca Raton event. Agran added the local flavor by providing his perspective of the South Florida real estate market. Together the complete presentation gave attendees a full picture on both a national and regional level. The audience also enjoyed the speakers’ insights on the economic outlook for real estate recovery. Overall, the event left the audience with a sobering reminder of the once-thriving, battered market with the reminder that it will, in time, return to a state of normalcy. John Creen, Broken Sound Club general manager and his team provided world-class service and hors d’oeuvres in the clubhouse. Creen addressed the crowd with highlights of the club’s amenities and special activities and guests were most impressed with the attention to detail from the expertly trained staff. Many remarked they felt as though they were in a top resort or hotel. Lang Realty is one of South Florida’s top independent residential real estate companies, with more than 270 full-time professionals. The mission at Lang Realty is to provide the highest level of service to clients who are looking to buy or sell within Palm Beach County, through partnerships with the finest real estate agents in the area. Lang Realty, an industry leader, provides agents with top-notch support, including a dedicated administrative staff, up-to-date technology and professional marketing materials. In addition, Lang Realty has formed affiliations with area builders, developments and country club communities. Lang Realty has five offices within Palm Beach County. O

i For more information, call Scott Agran at 561-989-2100 or visit langrealty.com.

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around town ;HAPPENINGS

Fostering Goodness JAFCO Gala Raises $400,000 For Needy Children

ore than 400 guests attended Jewish Adoption and Foster Care Options’ (JAFCO) recent 11th annual gala at the Polo Club of Boca Raton. The Triple Crown-themed affair raised $400,000 to benefit abused and neglected children in the South Florida community. The festive evening featured dinner, live music, dancing, casino games and virtual horse racing. Silent and live auctions were also on tap, with exciting items such as a Tuscan villa, African Safari and much more. This year’s event, chaired by Maurice Plough, was an incredible night for the children of JAFCO. One of the many highlights was the pinning of eight new godparents. The Godparent Circle is an elite group of donors who spiritually adopt all JAFCO children; their financial gifts ensure the children have all their needs met by making their gift over a 10-year period. Godpar-

Julie Talenfeld and Don Silver

The festive evening featured dinner, live music, dancing, casino games and virtual horse racing. Silent and live auctions were also on tap, with exciting items such as a Tuscan villa, African Safari and much more.

Edward and Bernice Wenger

ents truly raise an entire generation of children. When godparents are “pinned,” the matriarch of the family is given a beautiful gold JAFCO Tree of Life logo broach and the patriarch receives a beautiful tie pin. During the event, the Jacob’s Ladder Award for Child Advocacy went to Vicki and Steven Stolberg, Bernice and Edward Wenger and Julie Talenfeld and Don Silver. JAFCO is a not-for-profit organization licensed by the state of Florida’s Department of Children and Family Services to serve abused, neglected, homeless and at-risk children in Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Its stated mission: “We believe that every abused child deserves a permanent home where she or he can grow with safety, love and security.” JAFCO accomplishes this by providing a safe haven for the children within the Children’s Village composed of group homes and an emergency care and crisis center, as well as the JAFCO programs in the community that include family preservation, foster-care, adoptive families and mentoring. O

i For more information, call 954-749-7230, e-mail gail@jafco.org or visit jafco.org.

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around town ;HAPPENINGS

Driving Force Autism-Focused License Plates Benefit ARC Broward

n Florida, donating to the cause of autism is as easy as driving a car. Special autism-themed license plates are now available at local, county and private vehicle license plate renewal offices throughout the state. Proceeds will benefit Achievement & Rehabilitation Centers Broward (ARC), a private, not-for-profit organization providing support and assistance primarily to children and adults with autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, intellectual and other developmental disabilities.

Left to right: Gail Birks and Jen Klaassens Top left to right: Scott Singer, Ammal Elhaddad and Jan Kilgard

How it works: The specialty plates cost $25 annually above the standard Florida license plate, and ARC Broward receives partial funding from proceeds. The organization will also administer funds to other qualifying organizations who serve those with autism and related disabilities. According to the latest state statistics, specialty plates raised nearly $33.5 million for organizations and causes in 2007. The Support Autism Programs specialty plate was the only new plate approved by the Florida legislature in 2009. “We’ve received tremendous support from the community despite challenging economic conditions,” said Dennis Haas, ARC Broward president and CEO. “The Autism Specialty license plate will provide awareness, as well as desperately needed funding to support programs for people with autism and related disabilities like those provided by ARC Broward. We have more than 1,200 children and adults who are counting on us to be there for them every day.” A team of community leaders from Leadership Broward has made a commitment to ARC Broward to help gain awareness, encourage funding and strengthen ARC Broward’s many programs. In addition to developing an aggressive outreach plan to increase license plate sales, the team will execute the Community Autism Response Evaluation (C.A.R.E.) project, which will create, administer and evaluate a survey designed to better understand how existing clients came to ARC Broward. O

i For more information, call 954-746-9400 or visit arcbroward.com or autismlicenseplate.com.

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around town

Elegant Evening The Adolph & Rose

Levis JCC Honors Special Needs Department

hristopher Reeve said, “Once you have hope, anything is possible.”

The Adolph & Rose Levis Jewish Community (JCC) is proud to announce a first: “A Special Night for Special Needs,” graciously hosted by Marc Bell at his beautiful home in the Princeton Estates section of Woodfield Country Club, and generously sponsored by Comerica Bank Wealth & Institutional Management.

The cocktail reception is an opportunity to gather in a warm and intimate setting to learn about the many significant accomplishments of the Levis JCC’s Special Needs Department and how to become a part of its future triumphs. The event, a cocktail reception to be held on February 25th, is an opportunity to gather in a warm and intimate setting to learn about the many significant accomplishments of the Levis JCC’s Special Needs Department and how to become a part of its future triumphs and bring hope to many individuals with special needs across our community. Levis JCC Special Needs Department Co-Chairs Janet S. Elinoff and Emily Grabelsky noted, “It is often said that ‘it takes a village’… our entire community plays a role in meeting the needs of children, teens and adults with special needs in this area. We are thrilled to be celebrating all of the wonderful milestones and successes the Special Needs Department has achieved.” Couvert for the event is $36 per person. Be a Dream Builder with a minimum contribution of $500. The mission of the Adolph & Rose Levis JCC is to preserve, transmit and strengthen Jewish continuity by enriching personal, cultural, social and physical development. The center shall foster leadership, enhance education, create a neighborhood of commonality for Jews of all beliefs, promote the welfare of the Jewish community and the community as a whole, and affirm the significance of the State of Israel. O

i For more information, call Cindy Bergman at 561-852-3253 or e-mail CindyB@levisjcc.org. For more information on programs and services at the Adolph & Rose Levis JCC, call 561852-3200 or visit levisjcc.org.

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Grand Affair Historical Society Of

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he Historical Society of Palm Beach County honored actress, recording star and philanthropist Dame Celia Lipton Farris at the Society’s 8th Annual Archival Evening at Club Colette, Palm Beach. Honorary chair for the dinner-dance, themed Dame Celia Lipton Farris – An Incredible Life, was Kathy Bleznak. Guests previewed an exhibition of Dame Celia’s professional and philanthropic awards, and a collection of photographs, records and personal memorabilia from the Historical Society’s archives.

Born in Edinburgh, Scotland and raised in London, Dame Celia was performing in leading roles on the London stage in her teens. As a patriot of her country she performed for servicemen and women on battleships, in RAF hangars, hospitals and every Red Cross Club in London. Born in Edinburgh, Scotland and raised in London, Dame Celia was performing in leading roles on the London stage in her teens. As a patriot of her country she performed for servicemen and women on battleships, in RAF hangars, hospitals, every Red Cross Club in London, the USO and at the Royal Albert Hall. She acted and sang in leading roles on BBC Radio in productions such as Babes in Arms, The Wizard of Oz and Strike Up The Band. She’s raised funds for the American Cancer Society, American Red Cross, The Salvation Army, Children’s Home Society of Florida, United Way – Community Chest, Preservation Foundation of Palm Beach, the Historical Society of Palm Beach County and many other organizations. The Palm Beach Chamber of Commerce honored her three times with their outstanding citizen award and with the One and Only award. She was twice honored with the Gloria Swanson Humanitarian Award. Dame Celia underwrote a permanent exhibit for the Historical Society of Palm Beach County entitled, Notables, featuring 200 of the most notable individuals and families who’ve added to the history of Palm Beach County over the past 125 years. O

i For more information, call 561-832-4164, ext 103 or visit historicalsocietypbc.org.

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around town ;HAPPENINGS

Eye On The Prize Friends Of Schepens Hold Vision Of Beauty Luncheon At Mar-A-Lago

uests got to meet singer Olivia Newton-John and husband John Easterling, and über-chic fashion designers Mark Badgley and James Mischka as part of the Vision of Beauty luncheon presented by Palm Beach Friends of the Schepens Eye Research Institute, an affiliate of Harvard Medical School. The luncheon was held in the Grand Ballroom at the Mar-a-Lago Club in Palm Beach and raised almost $120,000 for eye research at the Institute. Newton-John spoke at the event on the importance of research and women’s health initiatives globally. The Institute addresses the needs of 2.3 million visually impaired women.

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“Our guests were thrilled to meet Olivia Newton-John and her husband John Easterling, who spoke personally about their own interest in medical research,” said Kathryn Vecellio, an honorary event chair. “A breast cancer survivor, and the granddaughter of German Nobel Prize winner and atomic physicist Max Born, Olivia NewtonJohn has a wellness center in Australia that bears her name. Easterling’s firm, Amazon Herb Co., has created nutritional products from the Amazon, including Zamu, which was served during the luncheon’s reception.” Added Vecellio, “Ms. Newton-John is impressive for many reasons. She is a shining example of how a celeb-

T h e B o c a R at o n Ob s e r v e r

Kenneth M. Fischer, Olivia Newton-John and John Easterling

rity can raise awareness about the value of research and its impact on public health. And her husband has been credited with bringing ecological and educational programs to the people of the Amazon.” A special event highlight included a fashion presentation by Neiman Marcus Palm Beach, featuring fashions by guest designers Badgley and Mischka, who also attended the luncheon. Considered to be the kickoff of the Palm Beach social season, the event also included a reception with a silent auction and boutique of Ju-

dith Ripka Jewelry and Judith Leiber handbags, as well as a raffle for a shopping spree at Neiman Marcus Palm Beach. Kenneth M. Fischer, president and chief operating officer of the Institute, presented an update on the ongoing research at the Institute. Herme de Wyman Miro was grand honorary chairman and Laurie Silvers served as Mar-a-Lago host sponsor. O

i For more information, call 877-724-3736 or visit schepens.harvard.edu.

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around town

Student Government North Broward Preparatory School Student Goes To Washington, D.C.

oral Springs resident Darryl Long, Jr., Student Government Association President at North Broward Preparatory School in Coconut Creek, has been named one of two students by Senators Bill Nelson and George S. LeMieux to serve as delegates to the 48th Annual United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP) scheduled to take place March 6th through March 13th in Washington, D.C.

The program’s overall mission is to help instill within each class of USSYP delegates more profound knowledge of the American political process and a lifelong commitment to public service. Long, Jr. is just one of two students chosen from hundreds of applicants, along with Rejerio Burton of Ocala, Fla. The pair will be part of a group of 104 student delegates who will attend the program’s 48th Annual Washington Week. While in Washington delegates will attend meetings and briefings with political leaders and top members of the national media. They’ll also tour national monuments and museums, and stay at the historic downtown Mayflower hotel.

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The program’s overall mission is to help instill within each class of USSYP delegates more profound knowledge of the American political process and a lifelong commitment to public service. In addition to the program week, The Hearst Foundations provide each student delegate a $5,000 undergraduate college scholarship with encouragement to continue coursework in government, history and public affairs. Long, Jr. was a natural choice. In addition to his work in Student Government, he serves as a student advocate, basketball team captain and NHS tutor for student athletes in mathematics. He’s also a semifinalist for the National Achievement Scholarship, a National Merit Scholarship-commended student, an IB Diploma candidate, a National Society of High School Scholars member and an American Mensa member. O

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02.10

February 27 Jimmy Buffett may derive from Pascagoula, Miss., but the singer/songwriter/businessman’s heart belongs to Key West, Fla. Born James William “Jimmy” Buffett, the 64-year-old entertainer began his career in Nashville, Tenn., where he launched a distinct musical sound that’s been described as pop, soft rock, country, easy listening, gulf and western … take your pick. After vacationing in Key West, he fell for the

charming city, moved there and soon took on his lovable beach bum persona. Key West has inspired much of his music, with hits such as Margaritaville, Changes in Latitudes, Changes In Attitudes and Cheeseburger in Paradise. He’s got more than 30 albums, nine of which went platinum and eight that went gold. Catch Buffett and The Coral Reefer Band when they perform at the BankAtlantic Center.

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02.10

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Naughty Nuptials: Tony ‘N Tina’s Wedding takes place February 17th through February 28th at The Broward Center for the Performing Arts

AmericanAirlines Arena The Broward Center for the 601 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, 786-777-1000; aaarena.com Performing Arts February 6 Black Eyed Peas Show begins at 8 p.m.

February 17-28 Tony ‘N Tina’s Wedding Show times vary.

February 25 Indigo Girls With Special Guest A Fragile Tomorrow (Knight Concert Hall) Show begins at 7:30 p.m. February 27 Jackie Mason (Knight Concert Hall) Show begins at 8 p.m.

February 21 The Pointer Sisters (Amaturo Theater) Show begins at 7 p.m. The Pointer Sisters

February 28 Harlem Globetrotters’ 2010 World Tour Show begins at 4 p.m.

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Museum of Discovery & Science, 401 S.W. Second St., Fort Lauderdale, 954-467-6637; mods.org February 12-28 MacGillivray Freeman’s Arabia Show times vary.

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February 26 Engelbert Humperdinck (Au-Rene Theater) Show begins at 8 p.m.

Hard Rock Live

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, 1 Seminole Way, Hollywood, 800-937-0010; seminolehardrockhollywood.com February 9-10 Frankie Valli And The Four Seasons Doors open at 7 p.m. Show begins at 8 p.m. February 16 Heavyweight Factory Presents: Tuesday Night Fights Boxing Doors open at 6 p.m. Show begins at 7 p.m.

February 5, 11, 13, Florida Panthers Hockey Game times vary.

February 25 93.9 MIA Disco Ball Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Show begins at 7:30 p.m.

February 20 Jay-Z Doors open at 7 p.m. Show begins at 8 p.m.

Parker Playhouse

February 27 Jimmy Buffett And The Coral Reefer Band Doors open at 7 p.m. Show begins at 8 p.m.

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February 20 Monster Jam Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Show starts at 7:30 p.m.

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561.274.8283 152

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February 6 Boca Raton Community Hospital 48th Annual Ball Have a great time for a good cause and help celebrate the rich tradition of caring. Takes place at the Boca Raton Resort & Club. For more information, call 561-955-4142.

02.10 February 10-11 Robb & Stucky Collectibles Werner Freundel introduces an exclusive line of Robb & Stucky Collectibles, which includes a diverse style of accent pieces. Takes place at Robb & Stucky Interiors in Boca Raton. Starts at 2 p.m. For more information, call 561-862-5597. February 10 Joy Of Life Series B’nai Torah Congregation’s award-winning senior group, Hazak, invites you to enjoy The Shtetl Zingers, an entertaining vocal troupe. Takes place at B’nai Torah Congregation in Boca Raton. Starts at 2:30 p.m. For more information, call 561392-8566. February 10-13 Pierre Matisse & The Masters Art Exhibition And Sale A portion of this event’s proceeds will benefit the Nat King Cole Foundation, which supports the arts in South Florida schools. Takes place at Onessimo Fine Art in Palm Beach Gardens. For more information, call 561-355-8061. February 10, 17 Rock’n’Roll: Its Roots, History And Special Sounds This Delray Beach Library course will trace rock’n’roll’s origins from its blues beginnings to its heyday in the 1950s. For more information, call 561266-9490 or visit delraybeachlibrary.org.

FLORIDA’S FIRST CHOICE IN LASER VISION CORRECTION

DR. G. RICHARD COHEN HAS BEEN SELECTED AS

“One of the TOP 10 LASIK SURGEONS in the United States” …FORBES MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2009

CALL AND SCHEDULE A COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION.

561.981.8400

February 11 Lion Of Judah Luncheon The Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County hosts author and political commentator Dee Dee Myers. Takes place at the Polo Club of Boca Raton. For more information, call 561-852-5054 or visit jewishboca.org. February 12-14 A Good Thing Going: Music Of Stephen Sondheim Lynn University’s Conservatory of Music presents Steve Ross and Jan McArt in this cabaret production. Takes place at the Amarnick-Goldstein Concert Hall in the de Hoernle International building on the Lynn campus. Tickets are $35 or $45 for the show and cabaret reception. For more information, call 561-237-9000 or visit lynn.edu.

G. Richard Cohen MD LASIK SURGEON Fellowship Trained Cornea Surgeon | Board Certied 3020 N. Military Trail, #150 • Boca Raton •

www.cohenlaser.com February 2010

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ALTERNATIVE ENERGY NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center - Scientiﬁc Visualization Studio

02.10 February 17 St. Jude 17th Annual Black-Tie Gala Enjoy music, dancing and more, with proceeds benefitting the programs at St. Jude Catholic Church of Boca Raton. Takes place at The Country Club of Boca Raton. Starts at 8:30 p.m. For more information, call 561-314-1250 or 561-314-1254. February 19 Allianz Championship Golf & Wine Experience Hobnob with golf legends and sample wines from their private vineyards. Proceeds will benefit Boca Raton Community Hospital. Takes place at The Old Course at Broken Sound in Boca Raton. Starts at 5:30 p.m. For more information, call 561-241-GOLF. February 19 THROUGH April 4 David Mamet’s American Buffalo A skewed vision of the American dream is explored when three small-time crooks pursue legitimate free-enterprise. Takes place at Palm Beach Dramaworks in Palm Beach. For more information, call 561-514-4042 or visit palmbeachdramaworks.org. February 20 Love, Laughter & Gratitude Festival Partake in musical entertainment, positive motivation and national comedic talent to benefit the less fortunate in our community. Takes place at Cason United Methodist Church in Delray Beach. For more information, call 561-385-4203 or visit llgfest.com. February 22 Men’s Sports Night The Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County hosts a guys’ night, with guest speakers Lewis Katz, owner of the New Jersey Nets basketball team and Alan Landis, ownership partner of the Minnesota Vikings. Takes place at St. Andrews Country Club in Boca Raton. Starts at 6:30 p.m. For more information, call 561-852-3109 or visit jewishboca.org. February 25 A Special Night For Special Needs Cocktail Reception Proceeds will benefit The Adolph & Rose Levis Jewish Community Center’s special needs department for people with disabilities. Takes place at Woodfield Country Club’s Princeton Estates in Boca Raton. Starts at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are $36. For more information, call 561-852-3200 or visit levissjcc.org.

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Master Ad Template

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Page 155

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02.10 February 26 Sunset Cocktail Cruise On The Lady Atlantic Enjoy a three-hour cruise from Delray Beach to Boca Raton with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, dancing and a silent auction. Proceeds will benefit Hospice by the Sea. Departs from Veterans Park in Delray Beach. Starts at 5:45 p.m. Tickets are $75. For more information, call 561-416-5099 or visit hbts.org. February 26-28 The 64th Miami International Orchid Show Orchid professionals and hobbyists exhibit more than 500,000 orchids and orchid-related items for show and sale. Takes place at the Doubletree Miami Mart/Airport Hotel and Convention Center in Miami. Starts at 2 p.m. For more information, call 305-255-3656 or visit sforchid.com. February 27 Annual Museum Gala This glamorous Boca Raton Museum of Art event is themed, An Evening With Elvis Presley, commemorating the upcoming exhibition, Elvis at 21. Takes place at the Boca Raton Resort & Club. Starts at 7 p.m. For more information, call 561-392-2500 or visit bocamuseum.org. February 28 30th Anniversary Gala Of Hope During this gala in honor of AKIM (which represents The Association for the Habilitation of the Mentally Handicapped in Israel), Lois Pope will be honored with the International Honorary Humanitarian Award. Takes place at The Breakers Palm Beach. Starts at 6 p.m. For more information, call 561-479-4634. February 28 Purim Carnival Expect inflatable rides, carnival-style games, delicious food and more at this fun family event. Takes place at Temple Beth El of Boca Raton. Starts at 10:30 a.m. For more information, call 561-391-8900. O

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Shevak "Big Picture".qxp

1/19/10

4:17 PM

Page 1

•WEALTH MANAGEMENT

The Big Picture ... Keeping Your Financial Life In Balance

•FEE-BASED ASSET MANAGEMENT

Life as a professional “Wealth Manager” in Boca Raton is certainly not boring. I see people at some of the happiest moments in their entire lives, and conversely, I also get to see them at some of their absolute lowest times. Investing large amounts of money for wealthy clients is clearly challenging in the times in which we now live. Investing, though, is but one piece of a client’s “financial puzzle.”

•ETF’S & MUTUAL FUNDS

Allow me to share some of my recent planning experiences with you.

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•I had a new client born, and helped his happy parents set up his college fund. •I had a longtime client die and delivered a large life insurance check to his widow. •I helped a young doctor set up his new practice, along with establishing a new 401(k) and Profit Sharing retirement plan for his employees. •I helped a recent divorcee re-establish her “financial life” after she’d experienced a long and vicious divorce. •I helped a newly retired couple establish a realistic retirement income and spending plan. •I invested and managed many tens of millions of dollars for clients and friends based on their specific family goals and desires. It is so rewarding for me to see my clients reach their goals because of my counsel and recommendations. This is my “Big Picture”…what is yours?

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SHEVAK FINANCIAL SERVICES Bryan K. Shevak, CFP®, ChFC, CLU CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ Professional Wealth Manager Fee-based Services and Securities Offered Through LPL Financial Member FINRA/SIPC

6489 Enclave Way, Boca Raton, FL 33496-4076 (561) 995-7873 E-mail: bryan.shevak@lpl.com

Website: www.lpl.com/bryan.shevak

LPL Financial representatives offer access to trust services through The Private Trust Company, N.A. PTC is an affiliate of LPL Financial

now&noteworthy The Boca Raton Observer’s

CBS’s The Early Show Highlights Hair Loss Treatments With Expert Dr. Alan Bauman As part of CBS’s The Early Show’s “New Year-New You” series, the network morning show invited noted hair loss expert Alan J. Bauman, M.D. to discuss the latest treatments and potential future therapies for ‘follically challenged’ men and women. Bauman Medical Group, P.A., 6861 S.W. 18th St., Suite 102, Boca Raton, 561-394-0024; baumanmedical.com. Alan J. Bauman, M.D. From left: Technion Professor Moshe Shoham, Miriam Atzmon, Irwin Aronson, Sid Atzmon, Cherie Mazer, Nancy Aronson and Jessica Feldan

Boca Raton Residents Journey To Israel On American Technion Society Discovery Mission The group received an exclusive, in-depth tour of the Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, commonly referred to as “Israel’s MIT” as it is renowned for its landmark achievements in science and technology. A total of $842,000 was pledged to support the Technion during the five-day mission. American Technion Society, 7251 W. Palmetto Park Rd., Suite 201, Boca Raton, 561-395-7206; ats.org/energy.

What’s Hot At Alene Too This super-cute bubble beach tote is made of beach/pool raft float material and comes in four colors. Alene Too, 6006 S.W. 18th St., Boca Raton, 561-394-0899; alenetoo.com.

The Ritz-Carlton Palm Beach Has Something For Everyone This Valentine’s Day The hotel’s signature restaurants will offer festive menu selections for couples, or if you prefer a more intimate setting, private beachfront cabanas are available to enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner under the stars with the soothing lull of nearby ocean waves. The Ritz-Carlton® Palm Beach, 100 S. Ocean Blvd., Palm Beach, 561-5404924; ritzcarlton.com/palmbeach.

Salvatore Principe’s LimitedEdition Coffee Table Book The Art Of Giving

Salvatore Principe

Famous fans Cameron Diaz and Gwen Stefani have been collecting Salvatore Principe’s boldly colored canvases for years. Now the artist’s coffee table book, The Art of Giving, gives everyone a chance to experience his pop-friendly, modern style, including his signature ‘Heart’ pieces which have led to his reputation as “The Heart Man”. Salvatore Principe, 200 N.E. 2nd Ave., Suite 106, Delray Beach, 561-278-1557; salvatoreprincipe.com.

G. Richard Cohen, M.D.

Dr. G. Richard Cohen Selected One Of The Leading Laser Eye Surgeons In The United States Cohen Laser and Vision Center announced that Dr. G. Richard Cohen has been selected by Goldline Research as one of the leading laser eye surgeons in the United States for 2009. “The practices that we selected provide outstanding patient care that exceeds the industry standard,” said Victoria Coryelle, an analyst with Goldline Research. Cohen Laser And Vision Center, 3020 N. Military Trail, #150, Boca Raton, 561-981-8400; cohenlaser.com.

Promotion

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flash HAPPENINGS

KING JEWELERSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; ROCK ART! WATCH EXHIBITION More than $15,000 was raised by King Jewelers of Aventura, which held a special ROCK ART! exhibition for the North Miami-based Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA). The exhibit featured unique and beautiful timepieces by Jaquet Droz.

1/ Jolie & Jeffrey Fromowitz, Jono King, Scott King and Richard Lepine 2/ Marc Praha and Tatiana Dam 3/ S anford Ziff and Bonnie Clearwater 4/ J ason Wells, Cindy Dana and Joey Krutel 5/ C arol Jenson, Taylor Grey and Tatiana Schefer 6/ Dr. Tal Morr, Maxine King and Dr. Jacob Steiger 7/ Marta & Vicente Carrodeguas and Maxine King

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flash

Photos by Robert Stolpe Photography

HAPPENINGS

ANDY RODDICK FOUNDATIONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ANNUAL DINNER GALA Guests gathered at The Polo Club of Boca Raton for an evening of food and live and silent auctions to benefit the Andy Roddick Foundation, which raises funds for programs that benefit neglected and abused children. 1/ Allan & Sharon Fried, Andy Roddick, Gregory & Mary Ann Fried and Rhonda Brothers 2/ Evan Brovenick and Lynn Miller 3/ V ictor & Laura Kevahazi 4/ K athy Tomczyk, Andy Roddick, Phyllis Bard and Justin Gimelstob r. Richard & Alisa Cohen and 5/ D Andy Roddick 6/ Jacque Clements and Merritt Kellett 7/ Bryan Dennis, Kristen Mangan and Tina & Freddie Russo

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flash HAPPENINGS

JEWISH FEDERATION OF SOUTH PALM BEACH COUNTYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S LION OF JUDAH OUTREACH At least 250 women united at the Wyndham Hotel in Boca Raton for a lecture by Sadia Shepard, who spoke about a search that led her from Protestant and Muslim parents to a journey to discover her Jewish roots. 1/ D ale Pratt, Deborah Newman,

Stephanie Owitz, Judi Schuman and Suzanne Block 2/ Barbara Werner, Emily Grabelsky, Jan Savarick, Eva Zeff and Linda Melcer 3/ E ileen Seskin, Anne Jacobson and Madeline Seeman 4/ D ale Pratt, Meryl Gallatin, Sadia Shepard and Judi Schuman 5/ J une Strauss, Betty Apple, Doris Tamarkin and Carolyn Greenberg 6/ Jeanne Fibus, Elissa Iny and Toby Horowitz

6 FFeebbrruuaarryy 22001100

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flash ALENE TOOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S EVERYDAY GRACE LAUNCH Boca Raton stylistas congregated at Alene Too for a fashionable event to launch Everyday Grace, a new jewelry collection designed by internationally acclaimed spiritual teacher Marianne Williamson.

Photos by Janis Bucher

HAPPENINGS

1/ Lizzy Schwartz and Jennifer Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Hanlon 2/ R ose Perera, Sharon Eisenstein, Marianne Williamson and Lori McCoy 3/ D ebbie Weisman, Monica Goldstein and Marianne Williamson 4/ E lizabeth Levine, Debbie Weisman and Jamie Kole arianne Williamson, Andrea Hammer 5/ M and Judi Hedge 6/ Debbie Weisman, Jamie Kole and Lizzy Schwartz

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flash HAPPENINGS

Photos by Janis Bucher

TIFFANY & CO. OF BOCA RATON’S 10TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION Attendees were treated to an evening of fine food, festive music and a visual feast of stunning jewelry during Tiffany & Co.’s 10th anniversary celebration of their Boca Raton store. During the event, Tiffany & Co. Director Neil Meany spoke about the importance of community partnerships. 1/ Heidi Burkhimer, Neil Meany

and Peggy Henry 2/ T om & Alice Smith 3/ C hristine Bucher and Wava Cullen 4/ H eather LaSalle, Dave Puloka

and Heather Whitten 5/ Nicole Ruth, Stacy Leech,

Linda Behmoiras and Peggy Henry 6/ J an Savarick, Robert Primeau

and Daryl Miller 7/ H iromi Printz, Neil Meany 2

and Don Stewart

7 ru ua ar r yy 22 00 11 00 FF ee bb r

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at home

the local real estate report

Subdivision Address

Boca Falls

12931 Hyland Cir

buyer

Vestal Jeffrey S & Liza M

Seller

Bent Robert A & Ann M

Sale

Prior

Price

Sale Price

Sale Date

$450,000

$319,000

16-Mar-98

Boca Falls

21310 Falls Ridge Way

Rajaratnam Sanjay & Josephine Cypress Trust Co

$450,000

$375,900

22-May-96

Boca Isles North

19626 Black Olive Ln

Cilluffo Robert S & Jodi

Bendik Edward & Joyce M

$353,000

$175,000

19-Nov-93

Boca Isles North

19698 Black Olive Ln

Fulep Kenneth B & Robin B

Chiccotella Kenneth L & Dayna M $329,000

$590,000

24-Jul-06

Boca Isles North

10564 Maple Chase Dr

Deerwester Richard C

Schenk Nicolas P

$206,000

30-Jul-93

$325,000

Boca Isles North

10800 Tea Olive Ln

Kontos Stephan G

Cucci Anthony J

$353,000

$335,000

20-Nov-02

Boca Pointe CC - Costa Brava

6541 Colomera Dr

Garcia Joe J & Jan

Edelman Phyllis F

$363,750

$212,500

15-May-95

Boca Pointe CC - Costa Brava

23438 Alzira Cir

Fredricks Karen

Sporn Leon

$260,000

$210,700

01-Mar-95

Boca Pointe CC - Palomar

7263 Via Palomar

Fishman Harold & Myrel

Kaiser Jeanette

$330,000

$258,400

01-Jun-89 07-Dec-01

Broken Sound CC - Banyans

6621 NW 24th Ave

Meran Harry B & Linda J

Nernberg Ralph & Renee

$502,460

$50,000

Broken Sound CC - Banyans

2361 NW 66th Dr

Zipper Sylvia

First Union National Bank

$360,000

$315,600

07-Jul-94

Broken Sound CC - Cedar Cay

2197 NW 53rd St

Williams Leon

Ablow Herbert & Carol

$354,000

$270,000

13-Aug-99

Broken Sound CC - Oak Run

6395 NW 24th Ave

Zebersky Patricia

Nalven Eric

$275,000

$280,000

20-Nov-89

Palm Beach Farms

1051 SW 19th St

1051 19th Street Corp

Utterback Dana L

$288,500

$146,500

14-Feb-92

Parkside

23425 Water Cir 11

Sherman Jeffrey S Living Trust

Bosco Edward J

$185,000

$175,000

29-Feb-96

Parkside

23437 Water Cir

Kessler Judith M Trust

Boca Trail Dev Holdings Ltd

$194,500

$1,026,200

01-Aug-92

Polo Club - Hampton Court

17225 Ryton Ln

Caplan Daryl

Chaparro Luis M C

$348,000

$315,000

10-Apr-92 18-Dec-03

Polo Club - Huntington

17104 Huntington Park Way

Rosenthal Myron & June

Jacobson Gerald & Barbara

$550,000

$430,000

Polo Club - Ville De Capri

17452 Via Capri

Goldberg Bruce E & Sandra R

Levine Paul & Rochelle E

$325,000

$380,000

11-Jul-07

Stonebridge Country Club

17727 Litten Dr

Schiff Peter D

Cooper Harold & Janis

$497,000

$105,100

29-Dec-88

Woodfield CC - Victoria Isles

5855 NW 42nd Ter

Cabrera Alejandro D

Kemsley Steve & Belinda

$405,000

$300,000

02-Oct-02

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giving back7charity never goes out of style

The Time Is Now Help Food For The Poor Aid Haiti By Jessica Gross

n times of tragedy, stories of strength and survival inevitably emerge. Such is the case with the January 12th earthquake in Haiti, where as of press time the death toll had surpassed 100,000 and where Americans including four Boca Raton-based Lynn University students and two faculty advisors on an educational mission with Food For The Poor were still missing. Leann Chong, missions and travel director of the Coconut Creek-based charity Food For The Poor, has such a story. She spent the night trapped beneath three feet of concrete, glass and metal when Hotel Montana collapsed beneath her. Immobilized, she heard people moving about but could only pray she’d be rescued. Miraculously, after 17 hours she was, and is now recovering from swelling and a leg injury at a hospital in the Dominican Republic. Most have been less fortunate. Millions of Haitians have been left injured and/or homeless, with no food or other necessities to survive. In response, charities like Food For The Poor – whose mission since 1982 has been to aid destitute countries in the Caribbean and Latin America – have quickly stepped up to donate food, medical supplies and other needed services. Within days of the earthquake, the organization sent more than 100 containers of goods 168

Angel Aloma with a child from the Little Children of Jesus Handicapped Home in Port-au-Prince

to Haiti, with plans for an additional 1,200 tons of goods to be sent as soon as possible. Less than a week after the earthquake, its Port-au-Prince feeding center was reopened (after being damaged in the disaster) and now serves more than 15,000 meals a day. The group hopes to double that amount in the near future. But it needs help: The group is asking that donations of bottled water and canned goods (including baby formula) be brought to the Coconut Creek facility for transport to Haiti.

T h e B o c a R at o n Ob s e r v e r

There’s also a volunteer program in the works. Of course, what Food For The Poor needs most is cash, which can be donated online, mailed or dropped off at the facility. “Our main need is money right now because there is a tremendous expense for wood and repair materials,” explains Angel Aloma, the organization’s executive director. The group also offers an online catalog where you can choose where your monetary donation will go, with

more than 96 percent of proceeds benefiting the region’s poorest areas. Explains Aloma, “Our mission is to bring up the standard of living in these countries, whether it’s by feeding the hungry, digging wells for the thirsty or providing education.” More than ever, Haiti needs your help.O Food For The Poor headquarters is located at 6401 Lyons Road in Coconut Creek. For more information, call 800-427-9104 or visit foodforthepoor.org.

Begin an enduring love affair.

Nautilus Ref. 7010/1G, Nautilus ring.