PAGE TWO
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Mailing Address
P.O. Box 970593
Boca Raton, FL 33497
General Information
Phone: 561-536-5443
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Games
STATEPOINT CROSSWORD
THEME: AT THE RESTAURANT
ACROSS
1. Bet’s predecessor 6. Ogre-like creature
9. Attorney’s bargain
13. Old but in 14. *Restaurant waiting area?
15. Located near crannies?
16. List of Catholic saints
17. Down Under runner
18. White heron
19. *____ meal, or staff meal
21. *Meat and fish, in Italian restaurant
23. Singer/songwriter Yoko
24. *What appetizers do to appetite
25. *Deuce
28. Like a reliable move
30. Not a desktop
35. “My bad!”
37. Painter Chagall
39. Beyond suburban
40. Wisecrack
41. *Nigiri, e.g.
43. *Middle Eastern bread
44. Of an arm bone
46. That time
47. Let it stand, to proofreader
48. Swellings
50. Chancy
52. Between E and NE
53. Stomach reflex
55. *Fish eggs
57. *Second C in CDC
61. *____ d’hotel
64. Not mainstream, as in art
65. “To His ____ Mistress”
67. Bracelet add-on
69. Covers with gold
70. Stiff grass bristle
71. Irving of Dallas
Mavericks
72. Eyelid affliction
73. Fairytale princess test
74. Winter driving hazard
DOWN
1. Curved one
2. Table extender
3. Sicilian erupter
4. Movie trailer, e.g.
5. Perfecting, as in skill
6. Toe the line
7. Popular pickup
8. Puppy love
9. Jumping stick
10. Forsaken
11. Barely got by 12. Spumante-producing town
15. Greek god’s libation
20. Rumpelstiltskin’s machine, pl.
22. *Freshwater staple in sushi restaurant
24. Idolize
25. *Chef’s hat
LAST WEEK RESULT
26. Modified “will”
27. Offer two cents
29. Drawn tight
31. Baby porcupines
32. Commonplace
33. Like Cheerios
34. *Blue-____ special
36. Unsubscriber’s focus
38. *____ de partie, or line cook
42. ____structure or ____red
45. Cujo’s disease
49. Ray shooter
51. Foxhunter’s call to hounds
54. Short version
56. C2H5
57. Marlboros or Camels, slangily
58. Army group
59. Lazily
60. *Complimentary dish
61. Asian starling
62. *Steak choice
63. Great Lake
66. Be in the red
68. Were introduced
COMMUNITY
Semiannual Water System Modification to start January 2, 2025
Palm Beach County, FL – To deliver the highest quality water to customers, Palm Beach County Water Utilities (PBCWUD) requires periodic line flushing and temporary treatment modification. These modifications to the disinfection process are routine and an industry best practice as a precautionary measure to maintain the water quality.
From January 2 through January 22, 2025, PBCWUD will be using free chlorine as opposed to chloramine for water treatment. This is only temporary and the water is safe to drink. PBCWUD follows a process that adheres to all regulatory standards.
It’s recommended that customers who are sensitive to this change, keep
an open container of drinking water refrigerated for a few hours allowing the chlorine to dissipate.
Users of home dialysis machines, owners of tropical fish, and managers of stores and restaurants with fish and shellfish holding tanks are advised to seek professional guidance for removing chlorine residuals.
This process will not affect customers in Belle Glade, Pahokee, and South Bay.
Anyone needing more information on this temporary change is advised to call PBCWUD at (561) 740-4600 and select option #1.
Image generated by AI
The Faxon Family and Friends Raise $97K to Help the Homeless through The Lord’s Place
Boca Raton, FL – Thanks to the generosity of Dory Faxon’s family and friends in raising $97,173, The Lord’s Place held a dedication of Dory’s Place on November 26, 2024, at its men’s campus in Boynton Beach. Dory’s Place is a beautiful pavilion that serves as a gathering space for the formerly homeless men who reside at William H. Mann Place for Men.
Palm Beach Gardens resident and realtor Dory Faxon loves to spend her Tuesday afternoons volunteering at The Lord’s Place. Each week, Faxon and a group of five others show up to Café Joshua to serve hot lunches to about 125 individuals who are experiencing homelessness and receiving services from the social impact agency. Faxon and the Tuesday volunteer group sit down as table companions with these clients to listen to their stories and help reinstill their human dignity as the men and women work on their unique journeys to ending their homelessness.
Faxon and her husband Brad have been involved with The Lord’s Place as donors since 2018. Shortly thereafter in 2019, Faxon became a regular Tuesday café volunteer. Faxon has developed a love for the clients and a family-like bond with her fellow Tuesday lunch crew members.
“It is such an honor and privilege to be affiliated with The Lord’s Place. We feel that we are so incredibly blessed in this life, and in this world, that nothing gives us more joy and pleasure to be able to help these incredible clients. We love The Lord’s Place! And we love the clients,” said Faxon.
In honor of Faxon’s 50th birthday four years ago, family and friends made surprise gift donations in her honor–raising more than $40,000 for The Lord’s Place. About a year later, another campaign was held in memory of Faxon’s beloved late father.
The $97,173 raised from both campaigns was used to build Dory’s Place
–a pavilion that serves as a place for retreats, meetings, barbecues, etc. for the 50 residents of the William H. Mann Place for Men. The money raised in excess of the cost to build the pavilion was donated to The Lord’s Place’s feeding program in honor of Faxon’s time volunteering in the café.
“We are most grateful for people like Dory who bless us with their treasures and quickly realize the deeper impact they can have by also blessing us with their time. As a donor and volunteer, Dory, along with Brad and her family and friends, have made a profound impact on our clients’ lives and on our agency as a whole. Our work to end homelessness is only possible with the support from our local community members. Thank you, Dory, for leading by example,” stated CEO Diana Stanley.
For more information on The Lord’s Place, its housing campuses, or volunteer opportunities, visit thelordsplace.org.
For more than 40 years, The Lord’s Place has been working to break the cycle of homelessness for men, women, and children in Palm Beach County, FL, through innovative, compassionate and effective services. The Fortin Family Campus in West Palm Beach provides training and support services including: the operation of Joshua Catering; job training and placement services; clinical and care coordination; community engagement services; and a reentry program helping men and women transitioning from incarceration. The agency also owns or rents 15 supportive and graduate housing locations, as well as 47 scattered site apartments, to help house about 275 individuals every night. For more information, visit thelordsplace.org.
Tom Fink, Dory Faxon, Charles O’Berry, Bonnie Deaner
The Dedication Of Dory’s Place At The Lord’s Place William H. Mann Place For Men Campus In Boynton Beach On November 26, 2024
Editorial
HEIZER
SYNESIO LYRA
ROSA CAVALCANTI
GABRIELA BARBIERI
One of the most basic problems in business is making certain to have the right people working in the right positions. No matter how talented, people placed in the wrong positions can create a lot of problems, as well as considerable dissatisfaction at work. This is not a new problem, however. We even find a good example in the Bible. Moses had become “burned out” in judging all the conflicts among the Israelite people. His father-inlaw, Jethro, could see the toll it was taking on Moses, so he gave him wise counsel, as recorded in Exodus 18:20-21:
“Teach them (God’s) decrees and instructions and show them the way they are to live and how they are to behave. But select capable men from all the people – men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain – and appoint them as officials over thousands, hundreds, fifties and tens.”
How are we to do this, identifying the capable, quality people we need? I have applied this wisdom into what I call the “4 C’s of Hiring:” Character, Calling, Competence, and Chemistry, in that order. Start with ‘Character.’ When employers hire someone, many search for people who have a resume and experience fitting the position they seek to fill. Once they narrow the list of competent people, many select the person they like the best. I think a better approach is to hire for character first. Hiring someone with great competence, but no character, can be a terrible mistake.
The Boca Raton Tribune
Founded January 15, 2010
DOUGLAS HEIZER, Publisher
Our Writers/Reporters and Columnists
KENNY SPAHN
THOMAS J. MADDEN
MARCI SHATZMAN
KARTIK KRISHNAIYER CHARLES
FAITH
By Rick Boxx
The Four C’s Of Hiring
Poor character can permeate your entire organization. As we read in 1 Corinthians 15:33, “Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character.” Competence is important, but the final decision should be based on the level of character after background checks, interviews, and integrity testing are done.
Consider ‘Calling.’ In 2014, Amazon began offering employees the opportunity to quit and get paid up to $5,000. This was Amazon’s attempt to address the importance of Calling, their passion for the job. It is important to hire people who sense they are called, or feel passionate, about your company’s mission.
If you desire to hire the best, clearly share your mission and eliminate those who don’t embrace your mission. Jesus Christ serves as a good example of this practice. After expressing many hard sayings and challenges, “…Jesus went on to say, ‘This is why I told you that no one can come to me unless the Father has enabled them.’ From this time many of his disciples turned back and no longer followed him” (John 6:61-66). He disqualified many of those who wanted to follow Him by communicating clearly His mission.
‘Competence’ matters. Competence is third on my list because many skills can be taught if people have strong character and the right passion. Nevertheless, finding and hiring the person with the most God-given skills for the job will increase your company’s performance
and ultimately, customer appreciation. As Proverbs 22:29 teaches, “Do you see someone skilled in their work? They will serve before kings; they will not serve before officials of low rank.”
Last comes ‘Chemistry.’ It is essential to hire people with whom you have a good chemistry. Wayne’s father was having trouble deciding between two excellent candidates for a key position within his organization. This owner asked his son’s opinion. Wayne’s insight was profound. ‘Dad, which of the two will you enjoy being with the most as you journey together?” Proverbs 18:24 teaches, “A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.”
Reflection/Discussion Questions
In your opinion, how common is the problem of hiring good people, but placing them in the wrong positions? Have you ever struggled with a job that was not suited for your abilities and passions?
It is suggested that a primary quality to consider in hiring people is Character. How do you think we can accurately assess a person’s character? What role, if any, does a person’s spirituality or faith play into formation of Character?
Another important quality is Calling. Do you have a sense of calling in the work you do? What do you think it means to feel “called” to perform a spe-
DOUGLAS HEIZER
cific job or responsibility? Do you believe God gives people a special calling for the kinds of work they can do best? Why or why not?
We can use things like a resume and vocational experience to evaluate Competence, but what are the best ways for determining Chemistry – how well an individual would fit with your team or organization?
NOTE: If you have a Bible and would like to read more, consider the following passages: Proverbs 10:9, 11:3, 12:24, 13:6, 27:17; Ecclesiastes 4:9-12; Matthew 28:19; Mark 6:7
Challenge for This Week
If you are in a position of hiring people, or helping to review potential job candidates, take some time this week to consider these four qualities for evaluating job candidates: Character, Calling, Competence, and Chemistry. Do you think you have been factoring these into your decision-making process?
This might also be a good time to re-evaluate yourself in these areas. Do you exhibit the kind of character that makes you an outstanding leader or employee? Do you feel a sense of calling for the work you presently perform? If needed, what steps could you take to improve your competence? And lastly, do you consider yourself to be someone people enjoy working with?
Cornell Art Museum Hosts “Hot Glass Panel Discussion”
Delray Beach, FL – The Delray Beach Downtown Development Authority (DDA) announced today it is hosting a “Hot Glass Panel Discussion” on December 12 at the Cornell Art Museum at Old School Square in Delray Beach.
Rob Stern, a master glass artist with a distinguished 28-year career, collaborating with some of the world’s most accomplished glass artists and masters. He travels annually, sharing his expertise as a teacher and gaffer at the most prestigious glass institutions. Stern also gained widespread recognition as a star of the Netflix series Blown Away . Brenna Baker, founder and artist of Hollywood Hot Glass, began her glassblowing journey at just 14 years old. Her career has taken her across the U.S. and to the renowned island of Murano, Italy, where she honed her craft under some of the most talented glass artists. An accomplished educator, she has trained and taught at The Studio of the Corning Museum of Glass and recently gained fame as a star of the Netflix series Blown Away.
JoAnne (JB) Berkow, President and
Founder of Benzaiten Center for Creative Arts and a highly regarded artists, business owner and philanthropist. Besides promoting her own work, Berkow has spent most of her professional life promoting the work of other talented emerging and mid-career artists.
Marusca Gatto, Cultural Arts Director at the Cornell Art Museum, and Eli Cecil, Creative Director at Benzaiten Center for Creative Arts, will moderate.
The Cornell Art Museum is featuring a Hot Glass exhibition in collaboration with the Benzaiten Center for Creative Arts and other glass facilities through March 2, 2025. The exhibition is co-curated by Gatto and Cecil.
WHEN: Hot Glass panel discussion takes place Thursday, December 12, 2024 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Hours at the Cornell Art Museum are Wednesday 12 to 5 p.m.; Thursday & Friday 12 to 7 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sunday 12 to 5 p.m.
WHERE: Cornell Art Museum, 51 N. Swinton Avenue, Delray Beach, FL 33444. Parking available in Old School Square garage.
COST: This event is free and open to the public. $5 donations are appreciated.
EXTRA: On Friday, December 13 from 6:30 to 9:30 pm., the Benzaiten is hosting a South Florida Studio Showdown featuring top glass blowing artists from around South Florida. Artists will create pieces, collaborate, and showcase their skills in front of live crowd. Cost: $25 per person; $50 for reserved premium seating. Seats are limited; advanced registration is required: https://www. benzaitencenter.org/visiting-artists.
For a full list of events happening at the Cornell Art Museum, visit https:// delrayoldschoolsquare.com/cornell or call 561-654-2220.
The Benzaiten Center for Creative Arts is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization located in an Historic FEC Train Depot just a few steps from the heart of downtown Lake Worth Beach. Our 14,500 square foot is a three-dimensional fine art fabrication facility dedicated to living and working artists as well as to our community. We bring art to life, immersing the public in arts production and its creative processes, while providing direct interaction with highly skilled artists. Benzaiten supports the creation of significant new works of art, a collaboration between peers across multiple media, and instruction from master to emerging artists as well as those who just want to experience firsthand. Learn more at https://www. benzaitencenter.org.
The Cornell Art Museum is housed within the original Delray Elementary School building, which was built in 1913. The Museum hosts several curated fine art exhibitions each year featuring notable regional, national and international artists. It also has a Museum Store displaying original works by regional artists. The City of Delray Beach purchased the historic building on the Old School Square campus from the Palm Beach County School District in 1987. The building was named after benefactors George and Harriet Cornell in 1990, before being renovated in 2017 through the generous support of Margaret L. Blume. Learn more at https://delrayoldschoolsquare.com/ about.
Old School Square is an historic cultural arts campus in the heart of Downtown Delray Beach. Old School
Square’s mission is to create a welcoming space where the community comes together for high-quality, diverse and interactive art experiences, while honoring the 100-year-old historic campus. The 6-acre campus is home to early 20th century school buildings that have been renovated and are now a fine arts museum (Cornell Art Museum), wedding and events venue (The Vintage Gym), and a performance theatre and creative arts school (Crest Theatre building).
The campus also boasts an outdoor amphitheatre for live music performances, a park and its own parking garage. Old School Square takes up an entire city block at the corner of Atlantic Avenue and Swinton Avenue. The address is 51 N. Swinton Avenue, Delray Beach, FL 33444.
For a full list of events happening at the Cornell Art Museum, visit https:// delrayoldschoolsquare.com/cornell or call 561-654-2220.
The Delray Beach Downtown Development Authority (DDA) was established in 1971 with a mission to grow, strengthen, and enhance the economic vitality of Downtown Delray Beach. As an autonomous agency of the City, the Delray Beach DDA advocates, facilitates, plans, and executes business development, fosters business relations, helps with the planning of public and private projects, and markets the downtown district. The DDA is located at 350 SE 1st Street, Delray Beach, FL. Learn more at https://downtowndelraybeach.com/ or by calling 561-2431077.
Follow updates on social media: @ DowntownDelray and @DelrayOldSchoolSquare
Marusca Gatto And Eli Cecil
Brenna Baker
Rob Stern
Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller’s Finance Team Recognized with Top Award for Transparency and Accountability
West Palm Beach, FL – The Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller, Palm Beach County, has once again demonstrated its commitment to financial reporting and transparency. For the 35th consecutive year, the office has been awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting by the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) for its Annual Comprehensive Financial Report. This prestigious recognition acknowledges the Clerk’s office’s outstanding work in its reporting of public money for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2023.
The award underscores the office’s dedication to maintaining the highest standards of financial accountability and transparency.
“Consistently earning this recognition highlights our team’s unwavering commitment to fiscal responsibility and clear communication on behalf of Palm Beach County’s residents,” said Joseph Abruzzo, Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller for Palm Beach County.
City of Boca Backed Upgrades Planned for Mizner Park’s Public Spaces
By Marci Shatzman
Did you know Boca Raton has public areas in a privately-owned mixed use complex downtown? Welcome to Mizner Park.
The center green space with the fountains and pavilion and the Mizner Park Amphitheater are city owned and maintained, and the city’s downtown district just approved up to $80,000 for upcoming upgrades. Here’s what the CRA just approved:
• Fountains enhancements
• Landscape planting and irrigation enhancements
• Sod replacement
The Certificate of Achievement adds to the office’s track record of financial reporting excellence, including receiving the Centre for Fiduciary Excellence’s certification for the 15th consecutive year.
The Clerk’s office continues to set a high bar for financial management and reporting in local government, reinforcing public trust and demonstrating its commitment to serving the residents of Palm Beach County.
For more information about the Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller’s financial reports and achievements, please visit www.mypalmbeachclerk.com/departments/finance.
The Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller is Palm Beach County’s protector of public money and records including marriage licenses, court documents, financial reports and real estate records. Visit www.mypalmbeachclerk. com and find us @ClerkPBC on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, X and Threads.
• Painting and color changeouts
• Paver additions
• Gazebo restoration
• Electrical upgrades
The city’s downtown manager Ruby Riley told city council sitting as the CRA that the black paint theme started at Mizner Park Amphitheater will be extended to match all the benches, light figures and planters in the public areas. The gazebo will be repainted gold and black.
Mizner Park’s shops, restaurants, offices and apartments are owned by Brookfield Properties.
New Outdoor Mural to View and Touch at Sugar Sand
Instead of a boring blank wall at Sugar Sand Park’s family pavilion, now there’s a gorgeous 11-foot mosaic mural of marine and natural life in south Florida.
Accomplished naturalist artist James Prosek, who came in for the reveal, wanted the mural to attract attention and it did. Even before the official ribbon-cutting, a 22-month-old girl came up to feel the image Prosek created for the Boston robotics mosaic and tile company Artaic. “What’s cool about the mural is that it has a tactile quality,” said Waqas Wajahat, who represents Prosek and also came in with famous art auction company Christie’ s senior vice president Joanna Szymkowiak. City Council Marc Widger said he was “astounded” there are 217,923 mosaics in the mural. “They’ll last forever,” he noted.
“I’ve done other outdoor work, but
By Marci Shatzman
this was my first commission for a city,” said Prosek. “My work is the natural world…for over 20 years.” Boca’s public art coordinator Vernonica Hatch was the connection. They knew each other from previous art installations, he said.
Former deputy city mayor Andrea O’Rourke innovated the idea of creating public art in Boca, and she was one of the speakers at the recent ribbon-cutting. Arranging and installing the mural was the work of the city and the Greater Boca Raton Beach and Park District. Representatives of both were there. Sugar Sand is a Beach and Park District park, and this is district’s 50th anniversary year.
Both visitors were dazzled by the park. “Congratulations on creating such an incredible space,” the artist said at the microphone. “This is our best job site out of 300 we do a year,” Wajahat added.
Palm Beach County Political Yard Signs Turned into Fuel
West Palm Beach, FL – With election season behind us, Resource Depot joined forces with Cemex, the Solid Waste Authority (SWA) of Palm Beach County, and NuCycle to divert thousands of campaign signs from the waste stream and turn them into fuel!
Signs were collected over the past month at seven pickup locations across Palm Beach County. Cities included Belle Blade, Delray Beach (east and west), Jupiter, Lantana, Royal Palm Beach, and West Palm Beach.
On Wednesday, December 4, the signs were transported to NuCycle’s Plant City facility, where they were transformed into Enviro-Fuelcubes. The cubes are now being used to power Cemex’s operations in Brooksville.
A total of 2,800 campaign signs (weighing 1,124 lbs.) were specifically collected in Palm Beach County and transformed into fuel.
According to Resource Depot Executive Director Jennifer O’Brien, the goal is to more than double that number during the next election cycle.
Since the start of the 2024 election season, Resource Depot has also collected more than 1,380 campaign signs for reuse and upcycling at its West Palm Beach location.
Resource Depot is a creative reuse center in West Palm Beach, Florida, dedicated to promoting environmental sustainability and creativity through reuse and education programs.
Learn more about the Campaign Sign Reuse & Recycling Initiative here https://www.resourcedepot.org/reuse-campaign
Resource Depot is a creative reuse center in West Palm Beach, Florida, dedicated to promoting environmental sustainability and creativity through reuse and education programs. The nonprofit organization redistributes discarded items to teachers, artists, families, and other nonprofits, hosts workshops and community events, and collaborates with educators to integrate environmental awareness into programs. Learn more at https://www.resourcedepot.org/.
James Prosek’s mural at Sugar Sand Park
Jennifer O’Brien, Jenna Emerson And Jessica Winter
Celebrating Champions for At-Risk Youth: Boca West Children’s Foundation to Honor Community Leaders at 15th Anniversary Gala
Boca Raton, FL – Boca West Children’s Foundation is proud to honor local champions for children at its upcoming 15th Anniversary Gala, set for Saturday, January 18, 2025, at the Boca West Country Club. This milestone event will recognize community leaders whose extraordinary dedication has uplifted countless children in the community. Grammy Award–winning artist Wynonna Judd will perform at the event, promising a memorable evening of celebration, reflection and hope.
This year’s honorees include:
Avron and Wendy Fogelman of Boca Raton, recipients of the Golden Heart Award. Renowned for their leadership and extensive philanthropic contributions in Palm Beach County and beyond, the Fogelmans have driven significant initiatives in education, healthcare and community building. The Fogelmans were instrumental in the development of Boca West Children’s Foundation, helping it grow to the impactful organization it is today. Locally, they also support Florida Atlantic University and Boca Raton Regional Hospital generously, highlighting their dedication to advancing opportunities for youth and fostering strong communities.
Marilyn and Jay Weinberg of Boca Raton, who will be honored with the Legacy of Love Award. Long-time
supporters of Boca West Children’s Foundation, the Weinbergs have been an invaluable force behind the organization’s success and impact in the community. Mrs. Weinberg’s visionary leadership brought to life one of the group’s most celebrated events, An Evening with Jay Leno in 2020. The couple’s enduring support has enabled Boca West Children’s Foundation to assist more children in need. In addition, they significantly contribute to initiatives that promote Jewish heritage, health and education.
Jeri Lee Caprio of West Palm Beach, the group’s Volunteer of the Year. As a generous supporter of Bo-
ca West Children’s Foundation, Caprio has made a lasting difference for abused and neglected children. This year, she hosted children’s events specifically for the organization’s charity partners, creating joyful experiences that bring hope to young lives. Caprio is also a dedicated board member of the Horses and Hounds Charitable Foundation.
“Each of these honorees embodies the spirit of compassion that defines Boca West Children’s Foundation,” says Pamela Weinroth, executive director of Boca West Children’s Foundation. “Their unwavering support and commitment to our mission have en -
abled us to expand our reach and impact more lives.”
One of the most anticipated events of the season, the Boca West Children’s Foundation 15th Anniversary Gala will feature a cocktail reception, dinner, silent auction and a live performance by Wynonna Judd, promising an unforgettable evening benefitting local children in need. Tickets are available for $600, with limited supplies remaining, and sponsorship opportunities are open for those who wish to make a lasting difference.
For more information or to reserve tickets, visit www.bocawestfoundation. org or call (561)-488-6980.
Since its inception in 2010, Boca West Children’s Foundation (BWCF) has been committed to supporting at-risk children and their families in Palm Beach and Broward counties. The foundation collaborates with 36 vetted, local nonprofit organizations to address the critical needs of children facing challenges such as abuse, neglect, hunger, and special educational needs. Through the generosity of donors, BWCF has been able to impact thousands of lives, donating more than $19 million to local nonprofits, and continues to serve as a beacon of hope for vulnerable youth in the community. Learn more at www.bocawestfoundation.org.
Avron And Wendy Fogelman | Golden Heart Award
Marilyn And Jay Weinberg | Legacy of Love Award
Jeri Lee Caprio | Volunteer of The Year
The huge pile of toys grew higher as more Rotarians and like-minded contributors brought sacks of gifts to the Sugar Sand Park site for a record-breaking 2024 Boca Raton Toy Drive.
This year, 13 benefactors grew the list of Rotary Clubs and groups receiving toys to give children in need for Christmas. They ranged from long-time recipients Caridad Center in Boynton Beach, that even sent a truck to pick them up, and Boca’s Wayne Barton Study Center, to Rotary Clubs and nonprofits in Wellington, The Villages and even Port St. Lucie, Melbourne Beach, Vero Beach and Okeechobee.
This annual event and peace poles at this locale and all parks are the special projects of former Rotary District
Boca Toy Drive Ushers in Holiday Gives
By Marci Shatzman
6930 governor and Rotary Club Boca Raton West founder Douglas Heizer for the last 18 years. This year, Spirit of Giving became involved in this annual pre-holiday effort.
an annual family event. Families come out to enjoy free carousel rides, food, and Santa, all while bringing toys and donations for this Rotary event,” said Heizer, owner and publisher of The Boca Raton Tribune.
Santa arrived around 11:30 a.m. at the all-day event and was an immediate hit with even the littlest kids. “The Toy Drive never fails to bring the community together for the common good as
Volunteers, most in matching Christmas green toy drive T-shirts, helped unload carloads of contributions into large cartons for distribution. Among them were the Rotary Club of Boca Raton’s president Kristine Amorello and dedicated volunteer Gary Hildebrand, and the Downtown club’s president Bruce Spizler and immediate past president Kim Champion. Two students from Emerald Cove Middle School in Wellington also helped out. And Boca Raton City Councilman Marc Wigder stopped by to give the organizers an official city proclamation.
Christmas Price Index 2024 Reflects Wage Growth and Rising ServicePrices
(StatePoint) On the first day of Christmas, holiday gift giving begins with the traditional gift of a Partridge in a Pear Tree. By the first day of January, True Love pays the bill.
Each holiday season, the PNC’s Christmas Price Index tabulates the price to gift all the items in the song “The Twelve Days of Christmas,” and this year, that figure amounts to $49,263.47, a 5.4% increase from 2023.
PNC’s Christmas Price Index mimics the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ (BLS) Consumer Price Index, which measures the average change in prices consumers pay for goods and services over time.
Notably higher in 2024 than the BLS’ CPI, which increased 2.4% year over year, PNC’s index reflects wage growth in the service industry as the primary driver of the overall higher price tag.
“Believe it or not, we’re still seeing the cause and effect of the pandemic-inflation hangover, even nearly five years later,” says Amanda Agati, chief investment officer of PNC’s Asset Management Group. “With years of steep price increases, we’d think inflation has nowhere to go, but we’d be wrong.”
Services Over Goods
The service-based economy is represented by the last four gifts in the index – the Ladies Dancing, Lords-aLeaping, Pipers Piping and Drummers Drumming. They’re traditionally priced based on the cost to hire various performers and musicians. The Ten-LordsA-Leaping, at $14,539.20, is the highest priced gift in the index for the third straight year. Overall, the service-sector gifts rose in price by 7.9% in 2024.
This rise of service-sector prices re-
flects a long-term evolution away from a focus on manufacturing in the U.S. economy since PNC’s index launched in 1984. At that time, goods comprised 70% of the Consumer Price Index, while today that number stands at just 35%.
Many of the gifts in the index representing goods remained unchanged in price in 2024 – the Turtle Doves, Calling Birds, Gold Rings and Swans all stayed flat, though still expensive year over year. The French Hens and Geese were the avian exceptions, with the latter representing one of the most volatile gifts in this year’s index, growing by more than 15%.
Housing Still High
The most volatile gift in the 2024 index is the first one – the Partridge in a Pear Tree - which rose in price by 17.1%. The least volatile gift, the Eight-Maidsa-Milking, has remained unchanged since 2009.
The Christmas Price Index also calculates the “True Cost of Christmas,”
which is the cost of purchasing all of the gifts as they repeat in the verses of the song. That cost increased by 3.6% to $209,272 in 2024, crossing the $200K threshold for the second year in a row.
If you prefer to shop online, you’ll pay nearly $5K more for the convenience, and of course the packaging and shipping that gifts of birds require. PNC’s online Christmas Price Index cost rose by 3.9% in 2024 to a total of $54,073.69. Most of the gifts commanded an increase for internet shopping, but if you’re looking for bargain buys based on last year’s budget, the price of the Calling Birds, Gold Rings and Swans remained flat online in 2024.
For more information on the index, individual gifts and a 41-year tradition, visit pnc.com.
“Buying the same gifts year after year may seem boring,” says Agati, “but keeping track of changes in your spending enables you to be more brilliant with your money, which is what I think the Christmas Price Index sets out to do.”
Why It’s Harder Than Ever to Make an Appointment With Your Doctor
(State Point) Americans face unprecedented wait times to see their doctors. This squeeze is particularly acute in primary care, but is also being felt in specialties like neurology, psychiatry and OB/ GYN.
According to the American Medical Association (AMA), here are the top reasons why it’s harder than ever to be seen by a health care provider:
1. Not enough doctors. With the U.S. population growing and aging, the need for physicians continues to grow. Yet, according to the American Association of
Medical Colleges, the physician shortage is projected to reach 86,000 by 2036.
2. A broken Medicare system. With an aging population and more Medicare patients on the horizon, the Medicare system needs significant reform. Today, Medicare pays physicians nearly 30% less than it did in 2001, when adjusted for inflation. So while the overhead costs of running a practice—equipment, office space, staff salaries—have all soared, payment for caring for Medicare patients has decreased dramatically, making running a practice extremely challenging.
“Physicians have shouldered the burden of a broken Medicare payment system for far too long. Especially in small, independent practices, and practices in rural and underserved areas, physicians have been forced to cut costs, eliminate staff, or limit the number of Medicare patients we see,” says Bruce A. Scott, M.D., president of the AMA. “These are steps we take simply to keep the doors open and the lights on. But unfortunately, be-
cause of this dysfunction, all patients— not just Medicare patients—are put at risk when our flawed and outdated payment system forces physicians to close their practices.”
3. Administrative burdens. Increasing bureaucracy and administrative barriers, such as prior authorization, consume significant time for physicians. Doctors today, on average, spend two hours on paperwork for every one hour they spend with patients.
4. Backlog and burnout. One of the ultimate legacies of COVID-19 is a backlog of services and screenings put off during the pandemic, now offered by fewer providers. Two in three doctors admitted to experiencing burnout during the pandemic, according to a survey from the AMA, the Mayo Clinic and Stanford Medicine. That’s the highest level of burnout ever recorded by the AMA. One in five physicians surveyed during the pandemic said they planned to leave medicine within the next two years, while
one in three said they’d cut back on their hours.
While there is indeed a crisis in care, the AMA says that there are solutions to address the problem. They include:
• Fixing the broken Medicare payment system. The Medicare Payment Advisory Committee has called for connecting physician payment to the Medicare Economic Index, which would ensure rising practice costs do not continue to overwhelm what Medicare pays.
• Adding voices to the chorus of patients and physicians calling for reform. Those concerned about this problem and worried about continued access to their physician, can visit FixMedicareNow.org.
“It is imperative that we take steps as a country to help all patients get the high-quality care they need and to ensure physicians can continue to deliver it,” says Dr. Scott.
New ER Now Open in West Boca.
Baptist Health has made access to emergency care even easier with a new ER in West Boca, an extension of Boca Raton Regional Hospital. From injuries to life-threatening conditions, we’ve got you covered with personalized attention and comprehensive care 24/7, 365 days a year. Plus, skip the trip to the pharmacy afterward with medication to go from Rx Now.
Mission Bay Plaza 10125 Glades Road
HEALTH & WELLNESS The Boca Raton Tribune
Susan G. Komen® Announces 2025 FORD Warriors In Pink
West Palm Beach, FL – Susan G. Komen®, the world’s leading breast cancer organization, is excited to announce the 2025 FORD Warriors in Pink. These nine women from across South Florida will be honored at the MORE THAN PINK Walk in West Palm Beach on Saturday, January 25, 2025, in addition to being featured in a variety of promotional materials and activities.
“Susan G. Komen Warriors in Pink represent the strength, resilience and determination of everyone impacted by breast cancer,” said Jamie Bellamy, Development Director at Susan G. Komen. “These women are beacons of hope and courage, inspiring us to continue our work to achieve a world without breast cancer. We are honored to celebrate them as breast cancer Warriors and join them in standing strong for every life touched by this disease.”
The Susan G. Komen 2025 Warriors in Pink are:
Kristen A. Dugan of North Palm Beach is a single mom of three girls. She was diagnosed with Ductal Carcinoma Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) in January 2024. Since then, she has undergone a double mastectomy, five months of chemotherapy and six weeks of radiation. On August 22, she rang the bell to conclude her final chemotherapy treatment! While her experience has not been easy, she has dedicated herself to being a role model who embraces hope, inspiration and bravery.
Erin M. Correa of Riviera Beach is a Registered Nurse, wife and mother of two young sons. In 2022, Erin was diagnosed with gastroparesis followed by Stage 2 Mesenteric Follicular Lymphoma and in July 2023 she was diagnosed with Invasive Lobular Carcinoma. Erin advocated for herself and met with multiple doctors before choosing her oncology team. By April 2024, she had completed her bilateral mastectomy and chemotherapy, began physical therapy, and resumed her infusion therapy.
Allison Jones of Palm City has faced a series of health setbacks over the years. In 2023, plans for a dual hip replacement were put on hold when she received a diagnosis of HER2-positive breast cancer. Overwhelmed by the unexpected diagnosis, Allison was advised to focus on her breast cancer treatments as the top priority. Within two
weeks, her treatment began. This year marks her first MORE THAN PINK Walk, where she hopes to reclaim her strength and connect with other women, finding inspiration and renewed determination through their shared experiences.
Lucille Ciaccia of Boca Raton went in for her first mammogram shortly after turning 40. However, what began as a routine screening quickly escalated, and her cancer progressed from Stage 1 to Stage 3 in a short time period. Since July 2023, Lucille has undergone a double mastectomy, AC-Thermotherapy and 25 rounds of radiation. Lucille passionately encourages women to advocate for their health. She advises, “If you’re told a mammogram before 40 isn’t necessary, don’t be discouraged. Don’t be afraid to fight for yourself!”
Nicholle Chadwick of Boca Raton is a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern (RMHCI) and mom of two. In 2022, Nicholle’s world shifted dramatically when she discovered a lump in her breast and was diagnosed with Stage 2 Triple Negative Invasive Ductal Carcinoma. Further testing revealed she was positive for the BRCA 1 genetic mutation. Nicholle has since undergone a double mastectomy chemotherapy radiation and IVF treatments. Through it all, her children became her driving force—her “why.” Nicholle encourages others to find their own reason to fight, saying, “Why are we fighting? The answer can simply be yourself and the will to survive.”
Stephanie R. Baker, RN, MSN, of Boynton Beach is a Registered Nurse who teaches at Cambridge College of Healthcare & Technology. During a routine mammogram 17 years ago, Stephanie’s life was turned upside down with a breast cancer diagnosis. She met brave women who offered her tools to cope, make plans, dream and continue with her treatments ahead. With the support of her husband, kids, siblings,
family and friends, she survived and later earned her BSN and MSN in nursing. She has since retired to Florida and gives back to the nursing profession as a nursing professor at a local college.
Shae Henderson of Broward was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 23. Shae’s journey with breast cancer was marked by delays and dismissals. Despite being told she was too young to have breast cancer and being denied mammograms and referrals, she refused to give up. Eventually, she found her team at Holy Cross, where a doctor finally listened to and validated her concerns. For Shae, that compassionate care made all the difference—both physically and mentally. Her advice to others: “Play an active role in the fight against cancer and draw strength from those around you.”
Elizabeth Hamma of Jupiter is the Market President at Hubbard Radio, a wife, mother of two adult children, and grandma to three grandchildren. Elizabeth never expected her journey with cancer to extend beyond supporting family members, friends and her involvement with Komen. However, life took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with Stage 1 Invasive Ductal Carcinoma. Thrust into the fight herself, she made the decision to undergo a bilateral mastectomy. Now, Elizabeth embraces her role as a breast cancer “thriver” and looks forward to continuing her advocacy with a renewed perspective.
Julie Culpepper of Ft. Lauderdale began her journey in 2017 when her oncologist identified an atypical (precancerous) lump during a routine screening. Given her family history—both her mother and sister are cancer survivors—and a decade-long pattern of benign biopsies, she initially underwent a lumpectomy but later opted for a mastectomy for peace of mind. The path, however, wasn’t without its challenges. Over two years, Julie faced difficul-
ties with implant reconstructions before successfully undergoing a DIEP flap procedure. Now, a year and a half later, she is thriving and grateful for the choices that have supported her health and well-being.
The MORE THAN PINK Walk is open to the public and free. Please register in advance at www.komen.org/ wpbwalk. Participants are encouraged to fundraise.
Susan G. Komen® is the world’s leading nonprofit breast cancer organization, working to save lives and end breast cancer forever. Komen has an unmatched, comprehensive 360-degree approach to fighting this disease across all fronts and supporting millions of people in the U.S. and in countries worldwide. We advocate for patients, drive research breakthroughs, improve access to high-quality care, offer direct patient support and empower people with trustworthy information. Founded by Nancy G. Brinker, who promised her sister, Susan G. Komen, that she would end the disease that claimed Suzy’s life, Komen remains committed to supporting those affected by breast cancer today, while tirelessly searching for tomorrow’s cures. Visit komen.org or call 1-877 GO KOMEN. Connect with us on social at www.komen.org/ contact-us/follow-us/.
See more photos: Scan the QR code
Erin Correa
The Boca Raton Tribune
EDUCATION
Solid Waste Authority
Recycling, Is It
Recyclable? Let’s Talk About Cardboard
Palm Beach County, FL – Today, many things are recyclable. And, in Palm Beach County, cardboard definitely is recyclable.
With online buying and general packaging, there’s a lot more cardboard in our waste stream today. The good news is that cardboard can be recycled.
In Palm Beach County, cardboard goes into your yellow recycling bin. But the Solid Waste Authority of Palm Beach County (SWA) understands that not all cardboard can fit into the 18-gallon yellow recycling bin.
There are options after removing all the foam and plastic packaging:
For residents living in unincorporated Palm Beach County, place excess and oversized cardboard beside the yellow recycling bin to be collected for recycling. Waste collection workers will pick it up by hand and put it into the correct side of the split body recycling truck.
For residents living in one of Palm Beach County’s 39 municipalities, contact your municipality directly for their curbside cardboard guidance. A list of municipal contacts can be found online.
For anyone who wants to recycle oversized or excess cardboard themselves, they can take it to any of more than 250 yellow community cardboard dumpsters throughout our county. You can find the nearest community cardboard dumpster at swa.org/wheretorecycle by clicking the graphic on the right side of the screen. From there, set the “Cardboard” option to “Yes.”
You can also take your cardboard and other yellow recycling bin materials to one of seven SWA Home Chemical & Recycling Centers.
In 2023, the SWA reported to the Florida Department of Environ -
mental Protection that it sold almost 75,000 tons of recyclable commodities to mills and factories that use them to make new products. Of that, more than 18,000 tons was cardboard.
Keep giving your recyclables the future they deserve. Recycle right, Palm Beach County!
The Solid Waste Authority of Palm Beach County (SWA or Authority) is a Dependent Special District that was created by the Florida Legislature in 1975. Since then, the SWA has developed an award-winning integrated solid waste management system to handle the county’s waste and recyclables. We call ourselves AWAY: whether you throw it, recycle it or flush it AWAY, we put your waste to work. Each year, we:
Process 100,000 tons of recyclables
Combust approximately 1.8 million tons of trash to generate electricity at renewable energy facilities
Produce enough electricity to power approximately 90,000 homes
Recycle more than 130,000 tons of wastewater treatment residuals (sludge from flushes) into an environmentally-friendly fertilizer amendment
Safely recycle or dispose of more than 4.7 million pounds of home hazards
Collect rainwater from the roofs of Renewable Energy Facility 2 and store it in a 2-million gallon cistern, which is used as part of the energy making process
Anyone can sign up on the SWA’s website to receive SWA news, calendar updates, job announcements or other web postings of interest. Should you sign up online to receive SWA’s news releases, we can remove you from the distribution list by sending a reply with the subject “REMOVE” as a reply to this email.
MUNICIPAL
What Boca City Council Just Approved
By Marci Shatzman
In their final meeting of the year, Boca Raton City Council passed everything on their agenda with little discussion on Tuesday, Dec. 10.
Among them, council approved a new indoor padel ball facility with eight courts. Gave Boca Raton Innovation Campus approval for mixed use on
BRiC’s campus off Yamato Road. And approved a report designating where in the city workforce housing can be built.
Here’s some highlights:
– Approval for an existing approximately 76,000-square-foot industrial building conversion of 28,365 square feet and the addition of a 1,370-squarefoot mezzanine at 1081 Holland Drive for commercial recreation use. Padel X Racquet Club Boca Raton, modeled o
Padel X Miami, will include 153 parking spaces;
a drop-off/pickup near the entrance; a 6-foot sidewalk along Holland Drive and more shade trees.
– OKed the first of two public hearings on an ordinance amending the future land use map to redesignate approximately 124.21 acres in Boca Raton Innovation Campus,
allowing 20 units per acre for workforce and affordable housing.
– Accepting the city’s Nov. 21, 2024 Affordable Housing Advisory Committee Recommendation Report pertaining to the State
Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP) Program. Council also introduced an ordinance amending zoning for affordable and
workforce housing in commercial and industrial zoning districts. City Councilman Marc Wigder said he attended a meeting of the county’s affordable housing committee, and “eventually we can determine the best solutions other communities are doing.”
There are still amendments required in other areas like the downtown, he added.
ENTERTAINMENT
B’nai Torah Congregation Announces Performers and Dates of 2025 Concert Series
highly anticipated return of the synagogue’s popular and inspiring Concert Series. The 2025 Concert Series will include four live, in-person performances featuring singers, songwriters, orchestras, and Cantors from around the world. All four events, which will kick off in January and conclude in March, are produced by B’nai Torah Congregation’s Cantor Magda Fishman in collaboration with Maestro Tomer Adaddi.
The 2025 Concert Series, which will take place in the sanctuary at B’nai Torah Congregation, located at 6261 SW 18th Street, Boca Raton, Florida, will offer a virtual option as well. The Concert Series is presented in loving memory of Eleanor and Paul Weiner. Tickets start at $30 for members and $40 for guests and can be purchased at https://www. btcboca.org/cs/.
“Music has a profound impact on our souls, bringing us together in harmony and lifting our spirits,” said Cantor Fishman, an accomplished performer with extensive experience in Israel, the United States, Europe, and Canada. “As a community, we come together to share this light and enjoy extraordinary artists. We’re thrilled to take the audience on a Jewish musical and cultural journey, showcasing performances that transcend genres and generations, inspiring and delighting everyone in attendance.”
“In my years at B’nai Torah, our community has never come together the way it has in recent months,” added Rabbi David Steinhardt. “We are so deeply tied to our people, our homeland, and our cultural and religious expressions. This series will give us the opportunity to gather to listen to talented musical artists as we reflect on the past and look towards a brighter future.”
The 2025 B’nai Torah Congregation Concert Series features:
Internationally Acclaimed Jazz Pianist and Composer Leonid Ptashka
Wednesday, January 15, 2025 at 7:30 p.m.
Known for his extraordinary talent and captivating performances, Ptashka will bring a dynamic blend of classical, jazz and contemporary music to the B’nai Torah Congregation stage. Ptashka is energetic and vibrant, inviting the audience to listen, participate and sing. According to Cantor Fishman, followers of Guy Mintus will love Ptashka just
the same.
ABBAFAB, The Music of ABBA
Wednesday, February 12, 2025 at 7:30 p.m.
Get ready to sing along as ABBAFAB brings the timeless hits of ABBA to the B’nai Torah Congregation 2025 Concert Series! With dazzling performances of favorites like “Dancing Queen,” “Mamma Mia,” and more, this show is sure to transport you back to the golden era of pop.
IDF Chief Cantor Shai Abramson
Wednesday, February 26, 2025 at 7:30 p.m.
Experience the powerful voice of Shai Abramson, the IDF Chief Cantor, as he graces the stage at B’nai Torah Congregation’s 2025 Concert Series. Renowned for his breathtaking renditions of traditional and contemporary Jewish music, Cantor Abramson’s performance promises to be a moving and unforgettable evening. Cantor Abramson’s performance is also an opportunity to honor Israel and the Chief Cantor serving at this very challenging time.
Cantor Magda Fishman, Maestro Tomer Adaddi and Friends
Tuesday, March 11, 2025 at 7:30 p.m.
B’nai Torah Congregation’s own Cantor Magda Fishman, along with Maestro Tomer Adaddi and friends, lights up the stage at the closing event for B’nai Torah Congregation’s 2025 Concert Series. Cantor Fishman’s captivating voice will take you on a musical journey, beautifully complemented by the artistry of Maestro Adaddi.
Tickets & Sponsorship
Tickets can be purchased at https:// www.btcboca.org/cs/ and range from $30 to $80 per ticket (for members); and $40 to $105 for guests. Season tickets are also available at a reduced cost. Sponsorship opportunities are still available as well. For more information about becoming a sponsor or if you have questions regarding the Concert Series, please contact the synagogue at 561-392-8566 or info@bnai-torah.org.
Learn more at https://www.btcboca.org/cs/.
Senior Cantor Magda Fishman is a graduate of the Jewish Theological Seminary’s H.L. Miller Cantorial School in New York. Prior to joining B’nai Torah, she served as the Cantor at Temple Beth El in Stamford, Connecticut. Cantor Fishman brings vibrant experience to Jewish music through a unique blend of traditional and contemporary styles. Over the years, she has built a large and loving following among a wide spectrum of audiences. Her repertoire includes liturgical masterpieces, Israeli songs, jazz, musical theater,
as well as her own compositions. Prior to her investiture in May 2011, Cantor Fishman served in the Israeli Army Orchestra as a vocal soloist and trumpet player. She came to the United States as part of the Tel-Aviv Broadway Musical Theater Project and was the recipient of the prestigious America-Israel Cultural Foundation scholarship. Cantor Fishman has performed extensively throughout the United States, Israel, Europe, and Canada. She had a lead role in the Prague State Opera, and she performed during the annual America-Israel Cultural Foundation Gala at Jazz at Lincoln Center and at a National Yiddish Theatre Folksbiene event honoring Elie Wiesel. She was featured in Folksbiene’s popular Soul to Soul concert at the Central Park Summer Stage and at the Saban Theatre in Los Angeles with Maestro Placido Domingo and Melissa Manchester. She also performs with the cantorial group Divas on the Bima.
B’nai Torah Congregation is the largest conservative synagogue in Southeast Florida with over 1,300 membership families. It is a close-knit, multi-generational, modern, and egalitarian synagogue, which offers diverse services, programs of worship, learning, tzedakah, social action, and social activities. B’nai Torah Congregation creates a perfect outlet for arts, culture, and learning, and we are home to several schools of Jewish education.
The synagogue, which offers a wide variety of volunteer opportunities that will enrich the synagogue experience, is a tremendous and vibrant center for tzedakah acts and projects that touch thousands of people. Learn more at https:// btcboca.org.
B’nai Torah Concert Audience
Leonid Ptashka
Magda Fishman
Artists Debut Dual Solo Exhibitions Spotlighting Conservation Awareness
Lake Worth, FL – Internationally-renowned artists, Kevin Berlin and Jane Lawton Baldridge will unveil dual solo exhibitions of new artworks on Thursday, December 19, 2024. The exhibitions will be open to the public with a reception from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. at the Palm Beach Art, Antiques & Design Showroom (500 N. Dixie Hwy, Lake Worth, FL).
Berlin’s “CROC WEEK!!” features large-scale paintings and works on paper were inspired by the artist’s yearlong travels in Cambodia, Sri Lanka, and Bali. The exhibition is highlighted with “Crocodile in the House”, “Crocodile on Mars”, and the monumental canvas “Elephant in the Room”. Small works on paper include those painted from life at the Siamese Crocodile Breeding Center in Cambodia, and the Elephant Transit Home in Udawalawe National Park, Sri Lanka. The opening night will feature Special Guests in Conservation.
“People have a lot in common,” said Berlin. “We all want to live in a beautiful place; we all want to have friends; we want to be loved; we want to build something and watch it grow; we want to be part of the future… and this is also true for crocodiles.”
Jane Baldridge’s “AZUL!!” 2024 highlights the importance and specialness of The Everglades. Featuring new paintings including River of Grass, Morning Glory, Sunrise over the Glades and Whispers of the Seminoles as well as, Lake Okeechobee, Florida Bay, Rookery Bay, Chatham River Picayune Strand and Chokoloskee Bay.
“The earth will survive. It always has,” says Baldridge. “But if we want to survive and have quality to our life, we need to protect our biodiversity and special places. If we do not correct the water management problems surrounding Lake Okeechobee and the Everglades, we will kill all the good things in the St. Lucie and Caloosahatchee estuaries. Too much fresh water let into them and not enough sent south to the Everglades damages all. Florida Bay is getting too salty without the needed River of Grass.
I want to share my stories and experiences with the audience in hopes of heightening their awareness of its importance, beauty, and fragility.” Representation and information from Friends of the Everglades will be at the event.
Berlin’s“CROC WEEK!!” takes a fresh look at Siamese Crocodiles which were once feared extinct in the wild until their rediscovery in 2000. Fauna & Flora International, working with the Cambodian government (CCCP –Cambodian Crocodile Conservation Program), established the country’s first captive-breeding program and have released 196 crocs into the wild since 2012. These reptiles are bred in captivity due to threats from poaching and habitat loss. When old enough, they are released into protected areas within the Cardamom Mountains.
To donate to one of Fauna & Flora’s many programs, visit: https://www. fauna-flora.org/support/.
Kevin Berlin is an international artist best known for painting, sculpture, and performance. Berlin currently lives in Southampton, New York and Florence, Italy. Berlin, a Yale University Alumnus, studied at the Slade School of Fine Art and has appeared in The New York Times Magazine, Shanghai Daily, The Miami Herald, USA Today, MTV, Tokyo Television, BBC Radio and over 40 television stations. Berlin’s works are found in collections including Kim Basinger, Luciano Pavarotti, President Bill Clinton, President George W. Bush and Quincy Jones. Berlin’s recent solo exhibitions include shows in Miami, Palm Beach, New York, London and the Hague. For more information, visit www.kevinberlin.com. Follow updates on social media @kevinberlin.
Boca Raton Public Library Presents the Photographic Exhibit, “Impressions” by Mary Ann Appell
Boca Raton, FL – The Spanish River Library in Boca Raton presents a new photographic exhibit, “Impressions” by Mary Ann Appell, a passionate photographer whose work captures the beauty of the world through a lens inspired by both nature and artistic vision. She believes in the profound truth behind the quote by Yann Arthur Bertrand, “The earth is ART, the photographer is only a witness.” This philosophy guides her creative process, as she seeks to document the vivid landscapes and hidden wonders of the world, sharing them with others through her unique images.
Mary Ann honed her craft at Baruch College in New York City and the Fashion Institute of New York, where she developed a keen eye for composition and detail. Her work was further influenced by the Impressionist painters of Europe, whose unique way of interpreting light, color, and movement sparked her own desire to capture the world in similarly evocative ways. In pursuit of this vision, she traveled to France, where she immersed herself in the works of the masters, further
deepening her connection to the Impressionist movement.
Having made over 15 trips to Europe, Mary Ann has captured artscapes across Italy, France, Spain, England, and the Netherlands, blending her personal artistic expression with the vibrant landscapes she encounters. Her photographs are not merely images; they are vibrant, dynamic impressions of the world around us, created with a sense of awe and reverence for the natural beauty that surrounds us.
“Impressions”, a free exhibit, will run from January 6 to February 14, 2025, in the second-floor art gallery at the Spanish River Library, 1501 NW Spanish River Blvd, Boca Raton, FL 33431.
The Boca Raton Public Library provides outstanding library services, resources, and programs that meet the educational, recreational, cultural, and informational needs of the Boca Raton community.
See more: Scan the QR code
Kevin Berlin
Boca Raton Tribune
SPORTS
Tickets Now on Sale for Inaugural James Hardie™ Pro Football Hall of Fame Invitational
Boca Raton, FL – The James Hardie™ Pro Football Hall of Fame Invitational announced today that tickets are on sale for the inaugural event, taking place March 31 to April 6, 2025, at The Old Course at Broken Sound in Boca Raton, Florida. The tournament will feature 26 Pro Football Hall of Famers competing alongside 78 PGA TOUR Champions professionals. Tickets, which start at $10, are now available at https://jameshardieinvitational.com/tickets/.
NFL Hall of Famers that have committed to play in the three-day tournament include Anthony Muñoz, Demarcus Ware, Morten Andersen, Warren Sapp, Rondé Barber, Dwight Freeney, Jimbo Covert, Andre Reed, Calvin Johnson, and more. The 78 participating PGA TOUR Champions players are competing for a purse of $2.2 million.
The James Hardie™ Pro Football Hall of Fame Invitational will be a memorable blend of football and golf, complemented by a full schedule of parties, celebratory events, and offcourse happenings to ensure a fun and exciting week for everyone involved. Tickets options include:
Gridiron Grounds Pass: The Gridiron Grounds Pass offers fans an upclose experience of the tournament, with full access to the event grounds and public viewing spaces. Wander the course, take in the excitement, and enjoy the electric atmosphere as worldclass golfers and Hall of Famers compete for glory.
Legends Club: The Legends Club is the perfect package for businesses and individuals who want an upgraded hospitality experience. Situated on the 18th green, this venue offers unparalleled views, inclusive upscale food & beverage, and private air-conditioned restrooms.
Legacy Club: The Legacy Club Pass is the ultimate way to experience the tournament like a true champion. Gain access into the heart of the action, adjacent to the clubhouse on the sunset patio, while enjoying premium food and beverage offerings. Don’t be surprised if some Pro Football Hall of Famers join you in this unique venue. Legacy Club Pass ticket holders also receive access to the Legends Club on the 18th green.
Military & Veteran Tickets: As a thank you to our military, all are eligible to receive complimentary grounds tickets upon presenting valid identification. Tickets provide access to the tournament grounds and Patriot’s Outpost on Hole 16. More information coming soon.
Kids 15 & Under: All Kids 15 & under receive complimentary grounds admission when accompanied by a ticketed adult.
Proceeds from the tournament, which will be televised live on the Golf Channel, will benefit partner charities, Boca Raton Regional Hospital, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Palm Beach County, and First Tee Foundation.
James Hardie™, America’s leader in home building products, has committed to a multi-year partnership to serve as the title sponsor of this new and exciting event. The James Hardie™ Pro Football Hall of Fame Invitational is managed by Pro Links Sports, a nationally recognized sports marketing and event management firm that assists in running several PGA TOUR and PGA TOUR Champions tournaments.
For more information about the James Hardie™ Pro Football Hall of Fame Invitational, visit JamesHardieInvitational.com and follow @JamesHardieInvitational on Instagram and @ JamesHardieInv on X [formerly Twitter] for tournament updates and player commitments.
For ticket information or to purchase tickets, please visit: https:// jameshardieinvitational.com/tickets/ ticketing-faq/
See more: Scan the QR code
Western Kentucky and James Madison Set for 2024 Boca Raton Bowl Showdown
By Marci Shatzman
Athletic directors for Western Kentucky and James Madison universities were extended official invitations to play in the 2024 Boca Raton Bowl over Zoom today, Saturday Dec. 7. The Bowl’s executive director Doug Mosley got an emphatic “Yes” from Western Kentucky’s Todd Stewart and earlier from James Madison’s Matt Roan.
Both teams were just announced as this year’s matchup for ESPN Events’ 11th Boca Raton Bowl. The kickoff and national ESPN broadcasts start at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday Dec. 18 played in FAU Stadium. Tickets and pre-game events and details at https://bocaratonbowl.com/
It will be Western Kentucky’s third Boca Raton Bowl after their 2016 and 2021 wins, but the first time both teams will meet. “They know how to win. I don’t think anybody has an edge,” the Hilltoppers’ coach Tyson Helton said about Madison’s Dukes. “Our goal is to win. It’s not going to be easy. We’ll have our work cut out for us.” “We won both times, and we’re thrilled to be coming back to Boca Raton,” Stewart added.
Mosley announced Western Kentucky will be hosted by the Boca Raton Marriott and on the west side of FAU Stadium at the game. That means James Madison’s team will be staying at the Hilton in West Palm Beach.
James Hardie Invitational Crowd
Boca Bowl Welcomes Teams’ Execs at Chamber Breakfast
By Marci Shatzman
With the 11th Boca Raton Bowl college football game kickoff set for 5:30 p.m. Wednesday Dec. 18 in FAU Stadium, it’s no surprise both teams’ advance men were already in town for the Boca Chamber’s annual Holiday Breakfast the Bowl always sponsors.
Speaking from the dais, Jim Clark, Western Kentucky University’s associate athletic director, noted this will be their team’s third Boca Raton Bowl. They won both matchups here in 2016 and 2021. “We’re happy to be back. After we won our championship game on Oct. 30 (making the Hilltoppers bowl eligible for the sixth season) I started texting Doug,” he said about Boca Raton Bowl executive director Doug Mosley, who introduced them earlier. “Both teams are here to win,” Mosley noted.
This will be the Dukes “second ever” bowl game after their first full year with the FBS, (a subdivision of the NCAA),” said Matt Transue, James Madison University’s assistant athletic director for football operations. The school is in the top 25 defense in the country, he noted, calling Bob Chesney “an up-and-coming coach.”
Mosley told 260 Chamber members and guests that the Fan Fest starts at 2 p.m. on game day with family activities on FAU Stadium grounds, and the game will be aired on ESPN TV nationally and ESPN radio. Tickets are sale and information on parking and stadium rules at https://bocaratonbowl. com/
The public is invited to the teams’ beach party Dec. 15 at Lake Worth Beach Pier, and especially the pep rally with both teams’ spirit squads and marching bands at 6 p.m. Dec. 17 in the city’s Mizner Park Amphitheater, Mosley said in a packed ballroom at Broken Sound. Teams, bands and squads are expected to arrive Dec. 14.
Earlier, Chamber chairman Sal Saldana led the audience in a responsive “I am the champion” chant. Chamber president and CEO Troy McLellan called this year’s bowl teams “an amazing matchup, We’re all fired up,” he said to applause. West Boca Raton High School’s Calliope Ensemble sang holiday songs. Tim Snow emceed and Greg Hazle did the invocation and pledge.
• Community Association Law
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From the boardroom to the courtroom, at the seats of government or at a community association meeting, Sachs Sax Caplan, P.L. o ers e ective legal and business solutions to individuals, businesses, not-for-profit organizations, government agencies and community associations who call Florida home. We have built a significant presence in Florida through dedicated, active involvement and leadership in the professional, legislative and civic communities.
6111 Broken Sound Pkwy, Suite 200 Boca Raton, FL 33487 5100 PGA Blvd, Suite 201 Palm
Gardens, FL 33418
The Boca Raton Tribune
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