The Coopermans of St. Andrews Gift $500,000 to Sinai Residences
Toby & Leon Cooperman Sinai Residences Boca Raton, a not-for-profit continuing care retirement community, has announced a $500,000 donation from philanthropists Toby and Leon Cooperman, members of St. Andrews, to support the upcoming renovation of its award-winning Health Center. The Health Center at Sinai Residences offers top-tier services in a resort-style environment, with care options spanning assisted living, skilled nursing, memory care and short-term rehabilitation.
The Coopermans’ generous gift represents 10% of the projected $5 million renovation cost, with construction set to begin in 2026. The upcoming renovations will encompass the interiors of Sinai’s Assisted Living, Memory Care, and Skilled Nursing neighborhoods, bringing innovation, enhanced functionality and modern design to elevate the living experience for its residents.
Coopermans of St. Andrews Gift $500,000 on page 3
Celebrate Boca’s 100 Years on May 24th, 25th With Weezer, Drone Show and “Centenni-ALE”
The City of Boca Raton is marking its 100th anniversary in grand style with a Centennial Celebration Weekend featuring an epic concert headlined by the iconic rock band Weezer at Mizner Park Amphitheater on Saturday, May 24th, at 7:30 p.m. (doors open at 6 p.m.), followed by a breathtaking, high-tech drone show at Boca Raton Innovation Campus (BRiC) on Sunday, May 25th, with two shows at 8:15 p.m. and 9:15 p.m. (doors open at 7:30 p.m.).
(Note: This celebration weekend is in addition to the exciting “Summer in the City” Tribute Bands Concert Series with shows from June through August as described in the article on page 6 of this issue of Boca Club News.)
Broken Sound Members Exhibit
Skills in Annual Art Show
For four eagerly anticipated days, from March 24th to 27th, Broken Sound’s elegant clubhouse was once again turned into an impressive art gallery as 53 of the club’s members proudly displayed their latest works of art—including photography, sculptures, portraits, woodturning, oil paintings, collages, ceramics, glass blowing, needle point, watercolors and more—in what would have been the 26th such annual event since the series was launched in 1999 had it not been for several years missed because of the Covid pandemic and two significant clubhouse expansions.
Angel Cabrera Wins First NFL Hall of Fame Golf Invitational
The James Hardie™ Pro Football Hall of Fame Invitational has officially wrapped, marking a major success in its debut year. Held March 31st to April 6th at Broken Sound Club’s iconic Old Course, the tournament brought together 78 PGA TOUR Champions professionals and 26 Pro Football Hall of Fame members for a one-of-a-kind celebration of golf, football and community impact.
“We couldn’t be more thrilled with how our first year came together,” said Ken Kennerly, Executive Director. “The feedback from fans and players alike has been incredible and the NFL legends are already asking about next year. We believe this championship has a very bright future.” (See page 8 for list of players’ final tournament rankings.)
Cabrera Wins First NFL Hall of Fame Golf Invitational on page 8
Bocaire Announces New Series, “The Ladies of Bocaire”
Loraine Viene, General Manager of Bocaire Country Club, has announced the first names in a new series recognizing some of the club’s women members deserving of special recognition.
“The introductory names are some of the inspiring ladies who have been living in Bocaire for over 35 years,” noted Ms. Viene. “They came to Bocaire with their husbands, and the majority were snowbirds. Today, they live here full-time and enjoy each other’s company, playing cards and dining and enjoying the Bocaire Community. We will continue to feature many more long-term members of Bocaire in the future. The following is a brief bio of each of some of the club’s great Ladies. This group picture is from
The artist is Bobbi Schlussel.
Ronna Brown, Whitney Young, Juan Pino, Jeff Waber, Angel Cabrera, Eric Mac Donald, Sawyer Morgan, and Broken Sound Club General Manager Ken Kosak
the New Year’s Eve Gala, 2024.”
Bocaire Country Club came together in a powerful display of generosity and community spirit on March 22nd for its annual Play for P.I.N.K. fundraising event. With an impressive turnout across golf, tennis and card games, as well as an elegant evening of dinner and auctions, the event successfully raised $135,000 in support of breast cancer research.
Bocaire’s Play for P.I.N.K. Event Raises $135,000 for Breast Cancer Research
Linda and Jason Levoy, President Bocaire Country Club
The day’s activities saw 100 golfers tee off, 24 tennis players take to the courts and 40 card players engage in friendly competition—all in the name of a great cause. The excitement carried into the evening, when 200 members and guests gathered for a spectacular dinner, highlighted by raffles, and both silent and live auctions that helped drive the impressive fundraising total.
Silent
Editor Nils A. Shapiro
of Seabreeze Communications, Inc. Most editorial copy is created by the homeowners and is edited by their appointed editor.
Jon Berger, Past President, Thomas Matarazzo, Bob Trinchetto, Cheryl Trinchetto, Anne
This achievement would not have been possible without the dedication of Bocaire’s professional staff in golf, tennis and cards, as well as the management team and the many amazing volunteers who worked tirelessly to bring this event to life. Dorine Seidman and Heide O’Connell, Co-Chairs, want most importantly to thank their members and guests for their wonderful generosity and commitment to making a difference.
Play for P.I.N.K. is a national initiative that raises funds for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, and Bocaire is proud to contribute to this vital cause. Thank you to everyone who participated, donated and supported this special event; your efforts are helping to change lives. They look forward to another great event in 2027!
Auction Table was flooded with Members bidding on donations for jewelry, vacations, golf and dining excursions.
Matarazzo, Skip Roach
Larry Bell, Jeff Nichols, Craig Segal, Corrie Nichols
Craig Segal, Judy Hume, Lila Glassman, Cookie Anastasia, Dr. William Paveletz, Marie Carey
Jane Throne, Richard Hirsh
Peggy Nitzkin, Nancy Fisher
Bernie Siebert, Leslie Dobbins
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Angel Cabrera Wins First NFL Hall of Fame Golf Invitational from page 1
2025 James Hardie Pro Football Hall of Fame Invitational Third Round Tournament Summary
1 Ángel Cabrera -11 68 66 71 205
2 K.J. Choi -9 70 68 69 207
3 Retief Goosen -8 71 69 68 208
T4 Thomas Bjørn -7 68 73 68 209
T4 Joe Durant -7 70 70 69 209
6 Miguel Angel Jiménez -6 68 71 71 210
T7 Jerry Kelly -5 72 74 65 211
T7 Freddie Jacobson -5 72 69 70 211
T7 David Bransdon -5 68 72 71 211
T7 Greg Chalmers -5 69 70 72 211
T7 Alex Cejka -5 68 68 75 211
T12 Rob Labritz -4 73 72 67 212
T12 Michael Wright -4 70 71 71 212
T12 Darren Clarke -4 70 70 72 212
T15 Tim O’Neal -2 75 72 67 214
T15 Tim Petrovic -2 71 72 71 214
T15 Paul Stankowski -2 76 67 71 214
T18 Charlie Wi -1 74 71 70 215
T18 Vijay Singh -1 70 74 71 215
T18 Boo Weekley -1 73 69 73 215
T18 Dicky Pride -1 73 69 73 215
T18 Billy Andrade -1 72 70 73 215
T23 Tom Lehman E 73 72 71 216
T23 Ken Tanigawa E 71 73 72 216
T23 Doug Barron E 75 67 74 216
T23 Jason Caron E 71 71 74 216
Tournament Highlights:
• Ángel Cabrera captured the inaugural championship title with rounds of 68-66-71, earning his first U.S. win since 2014 and finishing two strokes ahead of K.J. Choi. Cabrera took home $330,000 and secured full-exempt status on the PGA TOUR Champions.
• Tim Brown (Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2015) teamed up with PGA TOUR Champions pro Tim O’Neal to win the “Hall of Fame” division at -14 under par. “It’s been a great week, one I’m going to remember for a long time,” said Tim Brown. “Getting a chance to play with these great golfers was amazing, to watch how they go about their business and deal with the ups and downs of golf. It was a blast.” Beyond the Fairway:
T23 Colin Montgomerie E 71 69 76 216
T28 Gordon Burns 1 72 72 73 217
T28 Scott McCarron 1 75 70 72 217
T28 Thongchai Jaidee 1 74 70 73 217
T28 Mark Wilson 1 70 73 74 217
T32 Billy Mayfair 2 74 71 73 218
T32 Cameron Percy 2 74 71 73 218
T32 Duffy Waldorf 2 73 71 74 218
T32 Hiroyuki Fujita 2 70 73 75 218
T32 Shane Bertsch 2 71 72 75 218
T37 Brett Quigley 3 77 71 71 219
T37 Ricardo Gonzalez 3 75 73 71 219
T37 Jeff Maggert 3 73 76 70 219
T37 Chris DiMarco 3 70 72 77 219
T41 Brendan Jones 4 73 72 75 220
T41 Ken Duke 4 73 73 74 220
T41 Mario Tiziani 4 71 75 74 220
T41 Stuart Appleby 4 73 74 73 220
T41 Matt Gogel 4 71 76 73 220
T41 Tag Ridings 4 76 73 71 220
T41 Brian Gay 4 72 69 79 220
T48 Jay Haas 5 69 74 78 221
T48 Chad Campbell 5 79 69 73 221
T50 Paul Goydos 6 72 75 75 222
T50 Robert Karlsson 6 76 71 75
T50 Tim Herron 6 70 73
family—presented in a special key ceremony during tournament week.
T50 John
• The Christine E. Lynn Women’s Health & Wellness Institute Women’s Pro-Am (March 30th–31st) combined sport, wellness and philanthropy. Highlights included an evening reception, a keynote from Orangetheory Founder Ellen Latham and an 18-hole Pro-Am. Proceeds benefited the Boca Raton Regional Hospital Foundation and the Christine E. Lynn Women’s Health & Wellness Center. Sponsors included AutoNation, Hagar Insurance AgencyState Farm, FPL and the E.M. Lynn Foundation.
• Guests enjoyed an exclusive Evening with Jack Nicklaus at the Royal Palm Yacht & Country Club, where Mayor Scott Singer presented Jack and Barbara Nicklaus with keys to the city in honor of their enduring impact. Proceeds benefited Boca Raton Champions Golf Charities.
• The Legends Shootout presented by AutoNation delivered a thrilling 5-hole skins match featuring football greats Marshall Faulk, Rondé Barber, Lawrence Taylor and Warren Sapp facing off against golf icons John Daly, Darren Clarke, Miguel Ángel Jiménez and Jerry Kelly. Faulk and Jiménez emerged victorious.
• Folds of Honor Friday honored heroes with a patriotic celebration: a Navy SEAL tee shot, live bagpipe performance by Florida Firefighters and Police Pipes and Drums, and a ceremonial march by the American Legion 11th District. Complimentary tickets were extended to active-duty military, veterans and first responders throughout the week.
• The James Hardie Invitational also hosted a Young Professionals Happy Hour with the Greater Boca Raton Chamber of Commerce and a State of the Game Breakfast with the Palm Beach County Sports Commission. Giving Back:
• The Invitational raised critical funds for Boca Raton Regional Hospital, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Palm Beach County and First Tee Florida Gold Coast, as well as other local organizations.
• In partnership with Habitat and the Weitz Construction Academy at Seminole Ridge High School, James Hardie helped construct a new home for a deserving South Florida
• Through its Birdies for Builds campaign, James Hardie pledged $100 for every birdie made, guaranteeing
a $100,000 donation to Habitat for Humanity. The money supports Habitat for Humanity’s mission to build safe, affordable housing for families in need.
• A First Tee Clinic featuring Dickey Pride and Brady Quinn welcomed 50 young golfers as part of the nonprofit’s mission to empower youth across the region through golf. Looking Ahead:
The James Hardie Pro Football Hall of Fame Invitational will return in early 2026. Stay up to date at www.JamesHardieInvitational .com and follow the tournament in the pages of Boca Club News and on social media @JamesHardieInvitational (Instagram) and @ JamesHardieInv (X).
About the Invitational:
The James Hardie Pro Football Hall of Fame Invitational is managed by Pro Links Sports and was televised worldwide on Golf Channel. The 2025 field featured 78 PGA TOUR Champions professionals playing for a $2.2 million purse, alongside 26 NFL legends. The tournament benefits several local and national nonprofit organizations through a dynamic blend of sport, legacy and charitable impact. Learn more at www.JamesHardieInvitational.com.
Spring Cleaning For Your Health: Essential Tips From Dr. Luisa Brito And Dr. Althea Watson
As you refresh your home this spring, don’t forget to tidy up an often-overlooked area — your health. Spring cleaning isn’t just for your closets; it’s the perfect time to declutter your medicine cabinet, update your first aid kit, and schedule overdue checkups.
1. Declutter Your Medicine Cabinet
Medications can lose potency or even become unsafe after their expiration dates. Dr. Luisa Brito, a primary care physician with Palm Beach Health Network Primary Care, recommends sorting through your medications twice a year.
“Discard expired medications, old prescriptions, or anything you no longer need,” advises Dr. Brito. “Be sure to properly dispose of them at designated pharmacy dropoff locations to prevent environmental harm.”
Organize remaining medications by type — such as pain relievers, allergy medications, and prescriptions — to make them easier to find when needed.
2. Refresh Your First Aid Kit
A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for treating minor injuries at home. Dr. Althea Watson, who sees patients in both Boca Raton and Boynton Beach, emphasizes the importance of keeping supplies current.
“Check your kit for expired ointments, dried-out antiseptic wipes, or missing essentials like bandages and gauze,” says Dr. Watson. “Keeping everything up to date
can help you respond quickly to minor accidents.”
Both doctors recommend having kits in multiple locations — your home, car, and even your workplace — to ensure you’re prepared wherever you are.
3. Schedule Your Annual Physical
While spring is a great time to organize your medications and first aid supplies, it’s also the ideal moment to prioritize preventive care. Annual physicals help detect potential health concerns before they become serious.
“Conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and elevated cholesterol often develop silently,” explains Dr. Brito. “Routine checkups allow us to identify risks early and create a personalized care plan.”
Dr. Brito offers appointments in Boca Raton, while Dr. Watson sees patients in both Boca Raton and Boynton Beach. Both physicians provide same-day appointments, making it easier to fit a checkup into your busy schedule.
Boca Raton: 9970 North Central Park Blvd., Suite 400-B | 561-487-7931
Boynton Beach (Dr. Watson only): 8200 Jog Road, Suite 204 | 561-740-4762
Boca Happenings
Jacobson Jewish Community Foundation Honors “Forever Lions” at Thank You Luncheon
The Jacobson Jewish Community Foundation’s Lion of Judah Endowment (LOJE) Committee recently celebrated their Forever Lions at the LOJE Ultimate Thank You! “Ignite the Flame: A Celebration Through Song!” luncheon, held at The Studio at Mizner Park.
A LOJE is a woman who establishes a legacy by committing a minimum of $100,000, or 20 times her current Lion of Judah gift, to the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County’s Annual Campaign. This significant contribution creates a permanent endowment in her name to support the initiatives and essential programs facilitated by the Federation.
This distinguished event featured the talented Ally Rosenblum, an award-winning South Florida native who honored generations of Jewish women in theatre with an assortment of songs that narrated the stories of remarkable women in the performing arts. The performance highlighted the resilience of Jewish women throughout history, serving as a testament to the enduring power of women and honoring
the incredible individuals in attendance who continue the legacy of lasting tradition.
“I want to extend my deepest gratitude for your leadership and for your commitment in being on the forefront of endowing gifts,” said Federation President and CEO Igor Alterman. “Right now, everybody is looking for ways to create a sustainable future for Jewish life, and planned giving is that way. Your generosity is essential in providing the support our community needs to thrive.”
The event was chaired by Jill PoserKammet and Alicia Spero, with Randee Rubenstein serving as Chair of Planned Giving & Endowments for the Jacobson Jewish Community Foundation.
“Today, we come together as a community of strong, compassionate women, our Forever Lions, who lead with generosity, vision and unwavering commitment. Because of you, lives are changed. Your philanthropy ensures that vital programs, services and resources continue to strengthen those who need them most, here in our local community and across the globe,” said Poser-Kammet.
For more information about the event or learning how to make an endowment to the Jacobson Jewish Community Foundation, contact Erica Gordon, Director of Foundation Development, at EricaG@bocafed.org or (561) 852-3114.
About the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County. Established in 1979, the Federation is made up of Jewish and social service organizations, synagogues and schools that provide valued services and programs to recipients in South Palm Beach County, in Israel and around the world. It is also comprised of local residents, including lay leadership, volunteer, donors, professional
staff, rabbis, educators, event participants and students. Situated on a 100-acre campus in west Boca Raton, the largest in the nation, the organization supports more than 70 beneficiaries, engages with more than 5,000 donors and connects more than 130,000 residents. To learn more, visit https://jewishboca.org or call (561) 852-3100.
Shoshanna Leon, Rachie Shnay, Randee Rubenstein
The Symphonia Receives $20,000 Matching Gift On Its 20th Anniversary from Virginia and Harvey Kimmel
In celebration of The Symphonia’s 20th Anniversary, long-time supporters Virginia and Harvey Kimmel have announced a matching gift of up to $20,000 to benefit the orchestra.
The gift is a beautiful example of “neighborly love” from the Kimmels, a Delray couple, to the Boca Ratonbased Symphonia orchestra.
The Kimmels are passionate about supporting cultural arts and
education programs and have been among The Symphonia’s most significant benefactors over the past decade. Their support over the years has helped fund a number of The Symphonia initiatives, including the ‘Strings and Self Esteem’ Outreach Program, which provides music lessons to children who would not otherwise have the opportunity to learn to play a musical instrument.
The Kimmels’ generous gift will support The Symphonia’s upcoming programming and community outreach activities.
“It would be so gratifying if the community could help meet, or even exceed, this match,” said Virginia.
“We could not be more grateful to the Kimmels for their incredible generosity,” said Annabel Russell, Executive Director of The Symphonia. “This gift will ensure that we will conclude our 20th season on a very high note!”
Donations to The Symphonia can be made online at thesymphonia.org. For more information on giving and donor benefits at all levels, contact Annabel Russell at (561) 376-3848.
About The Symphonia. The Symphonia, recognized as the region’s premier chamber orchestra, provides high-quality classical music for the enjoyment and benefit of the South Florida community. Founded in 2004, The Symphonia’s performances and educational outreach programs feature nationally and internationally acclaimed conductors and soloists, enhancing the cultural lives of area residents, with special emphasis on its younger citizens. Follow on Instagram @TheSymphonia and on Facebook @SymphoniaBoca. More at thesymphonia.org.
JARC Florida’s 39th Gala Raises $1.1 Million To Support Adults with Special Needs
JARC Florida, a non-profit, non-sectarian organization that provides programs and services to educate and empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, hosted its 39th Annual Gala on March 9th at the Boca West Country Club. The event was attended by nearly 400 guests and raised $1,128,747 to benefit the organization’s lifechanging programs and services, including the Dr. Allen & Annette Stone Adult Day Training Program, The Selma & Irving Ettenberg Foundation Community Works and ADAPT (Adults Aging in Place Together).
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the 2025 Lynne & Howard Halpern Champions for Special Needs Award to Billi and Bernie Marcus (of blessed memory). The award was presented by last year’s honoree, Toby Cooperman, alongside Lynne and Howard Halpern. Accepting the award on behalf of the Marcus family were Billi Marcus and her son, Michael Morris.
Craig Shapiro received the 2025 Volunteer of the Year Award in recognition of his outstanding dedication to
JARC’s Sports Talk program, where he serves alongside past honoree Jerry Kransdorf. Shapiro is a familiar face at JARC events, consistently showing up to support clients and most recently chaperoning the Sports Talk group on a memorable trip to a spring training baseball game in Jupiter. The award was presented by Fallon Gechter, JARC’s Director of Philanthropy and Community Relations.
The gala was chaired by Carin and Scott Friedman and Cecilia and Jonathan Greenhut, with Lynne Halpern serving as honorary chair. Beloved entertainer Sam Simon returned as master of ceremonies, keeping the energy high throughout the event. Guests also enjoyed a silent auction chaired by Ronni Sommer and Bettina Kaplan, along with a raffle generously sponsored by Elizabeth and Peter Levine.
“The JARC Gala is a heartfelt celebration of our clients, their families, dedicated staff, generous donors, volunteers and the community partners who make our mission possible,” said Jeffrey Zirulnick, Chief Executive Officer of JARC Florida. “This year’s event was a tremendous success,
not only because of the record-breaking funds raised but also because of the momentum we’re building toward the opening of our new Caryn J. Clayman Life Skills Center.” About JARC Florida. The non-sectarian organization based in Boca Raton provides programs and services to educate and empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Its vision is to remove barriers to independence so that each person with intellectual and developmental disabilities is better able to reach his or her potential. JARC currently operates ten group homes in the Boca Raton and Delray Beach area for adults with developmental disabilities. JARC offers apartment living for those who do not require 24-hour supervision as well as vocational training in the Mel & Elaine Stein Living and Learning Center. The organization was created in the mid-1980s in response to the needs of families with adult children with developmental disabilities. Learn more at http://jarcfl.org.
Broken Sound Barks
More than 120 Broken Sound members and their furry family members showed up for this year’s version of the club’s popular “Yappy Hour” on March 21st at the clubhouse’s Playground area. The two-legged attendees enjoyed an array of appetizers, the four-legged treats and toys, and all were entertained by the music selections of a professional DJ.
As is clear from these photos by Andrew Millar, a tailwagging good time was had by all!
The artist is Elly Rose.
The artist is Marilyn Liedman.
The artist is Rhonda Nixon.
The artist is Elayne Arenberg.
The artist is Randy S. Sussman.
The artist is Myrna Riback.
The artist is Sonny Winters.
The artist is Marilyn Shapera.
Healthy Answers – A Guide to Healthy Living: “If Only I Could Sleep!” From The Professionals’ Desks
By Dale Brown, B.S., M.A., C.E.C.
Dale is a motivational speaker who has spent many years as a Certified Life Coach and has written numerous articles and e-books relating to selfimprovement and ways to build a highperformance team. She is the author of the book, “Small Steps...Big Changes:
The Personal Stories of a Life Coach,” from which this month’s column is adapted. Her education and years of experience in physical fitness and training of elite athletes has enabled her to sharpen her knowledge in many health-related areas. The following introduces a new approach to Ms. Brown’s series of columns devoted to many topics that deal with the mind/body connection and the importance of living a healthy lifestyle. Dale, a Bocaire resident, can be reached at dalebrown@lovingmondays.com.
Are you one of 70 million Americans experiencing some form of sleep disorder? It accounts to one in three adults who miss out on the restorative sleep necessary for optimum health and wellbeing.
Lately, my husband has become aware of the number of hours he sleeps every night. Each morning, one of the first questions we ask each other is, “How did you sleep?” He then goes on to calculate what time we went to bed and adds that to his final total. If he achieves at least seven-and-a-half hours, it’s like scoring a touchdown!
We both know only too well that a good night’s sleep can make a world of difference in how your day plays out. When you have trouble sleeping it can affect your whole body and mental acuity.
Age has a lot to do with your sleep pattern. If you think back to being a younger person, it’s likely that sleep came easy without thought or worry. As you age you experience arthritic aches and pains, along with stress and anxiety. This may account for why you wake up once or multiple times during the night, not to mention getting up with a need to urinate. Tossing and turning to find a comfortable sleeping position disrupts your sleep cycles, making you feel as if you haven’t slept at all.
Why are sleep cycles important? For the healthiest rest, people often aim for seven-and-a-half to nine hours of sleep, aligning with four to six complete sleep cycles, depending on the total sleep duration. Each cycle lasts about 90 to 110 minutes and consists of four stages: The last two stages are the most important to repair your body both physically and mentally.
Light Sleep (Stage 1-2) - Transition from wakefulness to sleep, muscles relax, heart rate slows, body temperature drops, brain waves slow down, but occasional bursts of activity occur.
Deep Sleep (Stage 3) - More deep sleep occurs in the first half of the night. Body repairs muscles, strengthens immune system and is hardest to wake up from.
Pet Matters from page 15
And then there is Feline Hepatic Lipidosis. This is a serious condition that cats may suffer from if their inappetence persists beyond just three days. Feline Hepatic Lipidosis, also known as Fatty Liver Disease, is a disease unique to cats and is a multifactorial syndrome. In this condition the lack of nutritional intake (not eating) for just a few days causes multiple metabolic derangements in a short period of time. Several organs begin to malfunction, electrolyte levels start to shift, muscle begins to rapidly break down and our furry friends clinically decline very quickly. Fortunately, Feline Hepatic Lipidosis is a treatable and survivable condition. But it does require fast recognition and aggressive medical management. When identified early in its development, Fatty Liver Disease can be reversed and the cat can be returned home eating on its own and enjoying life again.
Cats are tricky. There are numerous reasons why a cat may stop eating. Identifying the cause in each situation is always a challenge. But most important is a timely evaluation by a Veterinarian. If your cat has not eaten in two days, schedule an exam with your cat’s doctor (or an emergency room doctor) right away. In life a couple of days does not feel significant, but for your cat two or three days of inappetence can be indicative of a serious condition. As Veterinarians we always hope for a simple explanation, but we are prepared for more serious and complex situations.
Dream Sleep (REM) - Brain becomes active, dreams occur, muscles are paralyzed to prevent acting out dreams, REM sleep gets longer in later cycles of the night.
A common problem many people describe is waking up at 3 a.m. and not being able to fall back to sleep. If this happens to you, minor lifestyle changes might be helpful. For example, do you look forward to alcohol, caffeinated tea or coffee before bedtime? How about eating a heavy meal or adding sweets and snacks while watching TV? Not a good idea.
Alcohol may help you fall asleep faster, but it traps you in the lighter stages of sleep and causes disruption and possible awakenings. Caffeine (even in the afternoon) can still be in your system at night, affecting sleep quality. Think again before adding too many refined carbs, sugar or spicy foods before bed. Doing so can lead to a blood sugar drop or indigestive trouble; both have been known to interfere with sleep cycles. So what should you do if you wake up and can’t get back to sleep? Experts say, “Don’t lay in bed awake, not sleeping.” If you’ve been awake for 20 or 30 minutes, whether it’s the beginning or middle of the night, get up and reset. “Maybe you just need five minutes to get sleepy, or even an hour, but don’t spend that time awake in bed.” You want to love your bed as a comfy, peaceful place to sleep; don’t associate it with lying in bed awake, anxiously tossing and turning.
Have you ever awakened feeling groggy, as if you were pulled out of a deep sleep? It might mean you were rousted up mid-cycle. My husband and I usually spend an hour or so watching TV in comfortable recliners before going to bed. It’s hard to keep our eyes open, and I often nudge my husband to wake up because he’s missing half the show! When we finally
go to bed he asks the question, “Why is it I fall asleep so easily in that chair, but find it hard to get to sleep now?”
Watching TV passively distracts your mind, allowing you to drift off into a light sleep without overthinking. It emits blue light, which suppresses melatonin, the hormone that makes you sleepy. Changing rooms can briefly increase alertness and reset your body’s mental awareness. Once in bed, your mind becomes active and your melatonin may not be strong enough to help you fall back to sleep.
The good news is you can easily train your brain to get restorative slumber. Here are five science-backed tips on how to fix minor sleep issues:
• Keep a Consistent Bedtime Routine – Dim the lights and unwind before bed in a structured way.
• Control your TV Shows – Intense or high-action programs will over stimulate your mind making going to sleep harder. Keep the brightness of your room low.
• Make Your Bed a Sleep-Only Zone – Avoid scrolling your phone or working.
• Relaxation Techniques – Try deep breathing, meditation or white noise if you struggle to fall asleep in bed.
• Move to Bed Earlier – If you often doze off on the couch, head to bed before reaching that point.
• Bed Comfort – Lower your room temperature to a cooler setting and check the age of your mattress. If older than 10 years it could be part of your problem!
If you’re still having trouble sleeping through the night you might try visiting a sleep specialist to rule out sleep apnea or serious sleep disorders. Always consult your health professional for further guidance and referrals.
Legal: Housing Market Status Spring 2025
By Michael J Posner, Esq.,
a
partner
in Lippes Mathias LLP, a national real estate and business-oriented law firm with sixteen locations nationwide. Michael specializes in real estate and association law. He can be reached at (561) 594-1452 or at mjposner@lippes.com.
The housing market in Florida appears to be suffering from a combination of lowering demand, higher supply and stubborn interest rates that are still over seven percent as of April 14th. Prognosticators have labelled certain Florida cities as likely targets for a housing slump in 2025. The one bright spot is that we are now in a Buyer’s market after years of a Seller’s market, with many offers and bids in excess of list price making buying difficult for many would-be homeowners. If stubborn mortgage rates can be reduced below six percent a surge of buyers may enter the newly reshaped market.
Corelogic looked at five metro areas that are at huge risk. Three are located in Florida: Winter Haven, Tampa and West Palm Beach. With many people looking to leave the state and a slowdown in migration from other states, this means that price declines may continue the current trend. Another factor is the falling consumer sentiment fueled by economic uncertainty.
West Palm Beach and Winter Haven saw a 1.2 percent drop in sales between October 2024 and January 2025, while Tampa experienced a 1.6% drop. Add in soaring association fees and rising property insurance costs, fueled by an increase in hurricanes and hurricane damage, and these are not only deterring buyers but also encouraging the exodus. In West Palm 88.2 percent of homes sold below their list price in February, making West Palm one of the metropolitan areas with the highest shares of homes obtaining less than their asking price in the U.S.
Three other Florida regions saw nationwide high listing price reductions, with Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater at 28.90%; Jacksonville at 27.70% and Orlando-KissimmeeSanford at 24.70%.
One factor is the effect of Canadians looking to sell after Trump’s adverse actions towards Canada. The National Association of Realtors found that Canadians made up nearly one-quarter of foreign sellers in Florida in 2025. They previously only made-up eleven percent of foreign sellers in 2023. In addition, many South Floridians rely on Canadian snowbirds for seasonal rentals. With the tariffs causing growing resentment in Canada, and the dollar’s strength against the Canadian dollar, it is expected that far fewer Canadians will rent in South Florida over the 2025 – 2026 season.
Inventory in South Florida is growing because an increasing number of condominium owners are trying to sell their units due to fear of rising assessments as a result of new safety-building regulations and reserve requirements that arose after the Surfside condominium collapse in 2021. A Redfin report showed that inventory reached a record high in January at 172,209, which is 22.7% higher compared to January 2024. New proposals to fix this issue are unlikely to pass this spring, leaving condominiums to have to raise assessments to cover required repairs and fund structural reserves.
In January there were 25,000 South Florida condominium units for sale, and that number increased to 28,000 in April. Some experts predict that another 12,000 units will hit the market before the end of the year, increasing the total number of condominium units for sale to over 40,000.
In some areas new homes are being offered for sale with low or even zero percent mortgages just to move inventory. In addition, some developers are converting sale units into rent-to-own homes to move inventory. The need to use incentives to sell homes has increased to nearly 2008 downturn levels. Despite the slowdown, Florida new home builders continue to build new homes and development.
Another new problem is that certain condominium projects have been blacklisted, which means that the units for sale are not eligible for financing backed up by Fannie Mae (FNMA). This occurs because FNMA determines that the condominium has inadequate property insurance, or needs to make critical building repairs. Over 1,400 developments in Florida are blacklisted, and the list continues to grow, making financing on these units virtually impossible. The other issue is the cost of insurance itself.
Associations looking to save money may accept higher deductibles, or roof coverage that is depreciated for age instead of replacement cost coverage. These reduced coverage policies may save the Association and its current members money, but may make their unit ineligible for FNMA mortgages (which make up over one-half of all mortgages in the United States).
One plan to make Florida more attractive to out-ofstate buyers is the elimination of property taxes, which add to the financial burden of homeownership, along with high insurance costs and mortgage interest. Governor Ron Desantis has suggested that he will look into this, but any such change would require a constitutional amendment supported by at least sixty percent of eligible Florida voters.
Medical Matters: Longevity
By Richard Nagler,
M.D., a member of Broken Sound Club and retired physician. After graduating from the University of Pennsylvania and New York University’s School of Medicine, Dr. Nagler served his internship and residency at Baltimore City Hospital and Johns Hopkins. He followed that with a Fellowship in Gastroenterology at Yale University School of Medicine, and was then Chief of Gastroenterology at Fitzimmons General Army Hospital in Denver. He returned to the Yale Medical School for one year as an Assistant Professor of Medicine before opening his own successful private practice in Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology. During that time, he also served for ten years as Chief of Medicine at Huntington Hospital in Huntington, N.Y.
In America, the average life span for men is 77.9 years and for women 81.2. This is the lowest among the industrialized countries, probably the result in part of our broken health care system and our dietary habits.
Many people in their 90s are often asked, “To what do you owe your longevity?” The answers given fail to address the many factors that are involved. What is important is not whether you live to be 85, 95 or 105, but the quality of life you’ve lived.
Genetics play a significant role but less than most of us imagine. It is complicit in approximately 20% of the population, compared to 80% attributed to lifestyle and other factors. There is nothing we can do about our parents, grandparents and ancestors’ longevity.
A major factor is luck in having avoided accidents, injury, infectious diseases through vaccination, violence (especially in war) and exposure to chemicals, various toxins and radiation, all of which increase the risk of cancer. It is very lucky to avoid the one in eight chances of developing dementia.
Being loved and needed by a spouse, family, friends and in the community is a great motivation to live. Love combined with optimism is the core of happiness. Happily married couples live longer.
Socialization is of vital importance to longevity and quality of life. It involves sharing time with others
in conversation, playing cards, engaging in hobbies, belonging to book clubs, involvement with charities, dining out and attending lectures as part of lifelong education.
Sadly, as we age we often lose our beloved spouse, loved ones and dear friends who have passed on or moved away, resulting in loneliness which can be devastating. Some are fortunate to find companionship or choose to move in with their children. Another option is an independent living facility where socialization is readily available.
Coach potatoes are at great risk for an earlier demise. Sitting for long periods in front of a TV is conducive to back and neck pain. It discourages social interaction. Regular exercise is crucial to longevity. It should not be a chore but a source of pleasure.
Depending on physical status, choices of exercise should be made that are consistently followed as a routine and in moderation. Brisk walking, swimming, bicycle riding, water aerobics, sensible jogging and such sports as Tennis are all recommended. Fitness centers have proliferated all over the country which offer easy access to supervised aerobic physical programs suited to seniors.
Sleeping patterns, where an individual gets eight hours of quality REM sleep, factors into longevity. Sleeping medications should be avoided as they may cause confusion and unsteadiness when waking up and going to the bathroom, resulting in falls. A night light will prevent total darkness in the bedroom. For men having a urinal at the bedside would obviate the need to walk to the bathroom, and a side railing is useful in preventing falling out of bed.
A yearly visit to the doctor can identify and modify such risk factors as high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol levels, obesity, sugar and salt intake. Patients can be encouraged to stop smoking and limit alcohol consumption to one drink a day or, better, none.
Mammograms, pap smears, colonoscopies and updating vaccines reduce the likelihood of developing life-shortening heart disease, strokes and cancer. Seniors who have balance problems, are unsteady or have visual difficulty should be advised to use a cane or a walker as a precaution in reducing the likelihood of falling.
The dismal dietary habits involving fatty processed foods and soft drinks, with 40% of Americans being obese, presents a challenge for modification.
As people age many of life’s pleasures diminish, with the enjoyment of food becoming increasingly important. No one questions that a Mediterranean diet is conducive to good health and longevity. It relies heavily on fish— especially salmon, tuna and sardines—fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, legumes, olive oil, limited dairy and little, if any, red meat. Salt intake is restricted. Sugar is avoided as excess sugar is converted by the body into fat.
The problem for seniors is that strict adherence to this diet denies them one of the few remaining pleasures in life. That is why having a good steak, hamburger, hot dog, ice cream, etc. several times a month is a reasonable compromise more likely adhered to by the elderly.
In addition, intermittent fasting with eating early and less often is advisable. Having a twelve-hour window between meals and twelve hours of fasting at night encourages the body to use stored fat, which contributes to weight reduction.
Limit the stress and anxiety that shortens life span and adversely affects quality of life. Meditation, yoga, Taichi deep breathing exercise, progressive muscle relaxation and biofeedback can help.
Regarding longevity, the fact is that we are all going to age, but how long we live is dependent on things beyond our control. There are options for us that can prolong life and ensure a better quality of life, but in the end all of us will die.
So get up in the morning, get dressed, have a good breakfast and go out of the house. Marvel at the wonders of nature. Appreciate how much better your life is because of the discoveries and inventions of those who came before us. Think about those you love and who love you. Maybe, just maybe, wonderful things await us after we pass on.
The Good Life: Dining, Drinks, Destinations
Dining
Out:
I Don’t Care How
You Pronounce Its Name... It’s a Tony Award Winner for Me!
By Alan Serinsky of Bocaire Country Club. Hungry Al’s love for food started very young. Never satisfied with his Mom’s dishes, he started to cook his way through her “Betty Crocker Cookbook.” During the years to follow he spend many hours working in restaurants, both as server and cook, attending cooking classes and traveling the world in an effort to expand his palette. As a professional writer, Hungry Al offers his perspective on current food trends and guides you through your local restaurant options.
Stage Kitchen & Bar Boca 5377 Town Center Rd. – Suite 200 Boca Raton, FL 33486 Phone: (561) 409-2376 stagekitchenandbar.com
Food for Thought: Well, I’m back at Restaurant Row! Boy...has it changed since my last visit to Fiolina Pasta House. Unfortunately, that one never got too far off the starting blocks. Sadly, the food was not bad but the prices were too much Miami. Now with the help of El Camino Mexican restaurant there’s a new birth of energy and interesting cuisine on this strip of eateries.
Tonight, we visited the second location of Stage, a successful dining formula that’s getting great reviews in Palm Beach Garden. But before I get started on this review let me advise you, “Don’t make the same mistake I made pronouncing its name.” For some of us the name “Stage” is a throwback to NYC’s famous Stage Delicatessen. This is not even close except for the spelling. It’s a French word pronounced “staahj” and defines an internship at a Michelin style restaurant.
Here at Stage there is little reflecting French cuisine. Stage’s menu spans a variety of global flavors ranging from Spanish Patatas Bravas and Japanese Tuna Bomb to tasty Korean BBQ Ribs or Southern Shrimp & Grits. But the underlining culinary theme here is unmistakably Indian.
I confess, I have not been a diehard Indian food eater. Until now! After numerous times dining out on the same old Branzino, Vodka Penne, Miso Glazed Salmon, Filet Mignon Bone-In and Fish Tacos I was ready for a change of palate and spice. And since we can’t find a good Chinese restaurant in all of Palm Beach County you should highly consider Stage for a perfect alternative.
First Impressions: Wow! This restaurant is simply beautiful. The décor doesn’t define anything that’s Indian but leans into a more South Beach chic and contemporary environment. Huge bar runs the length of the floorplan with an open kitchen spanning the backside. Thankfully, the open feel of the tables gives you room to talk and move. And the outside airy patio is a tropical garden to help set a nightly mood of relaxation.
If you get a moment, check out the kitchen up close. Don’t worry, they wouldn’t shoo-you-away like an unwanted Peeping Tom. The line cooks operating the array of wood-burning grills provide a circus of interesting techniques.
Prime Your Taste Buds: Since we are table-sharing this evening we all got a taste of every dish. We started out with the Spicy Tuna Bomb ($23). By the visual of these Asian treats they looked exactly like little “bombs.” The round crusty fried enclosure of semolina puri (bread) was packed with a fresh sushi-grade tuna, a touch of spicy soy and avocado. These explosions of flavors were a favorite at the table.
Next was the “Our House” Smoked Fish Dip ($17). Right off, I’ll tell you this dip was not out of a plastic container. Yes, it’s homemade and absolutely the best I’ve had in a long time. Hungry S was in the mood for a salad so her choice was Stage’s Vegetable “Pachadi” Salad ($17). This dish was finely chopped with an array of such vegetables as: carrots, tomato, corn, peanuts, coconut and other undefined ingredients. It didn’t last long on the table before we hit bottom.
What’s an Indian restaurant without Naan? Luckily, Stage excels at this side accompanying starch. There are three selections: spicy cheese, black truffle and the popular garlic. All the Naan are grilled on an Oak wood-burning stove. The char on these are amazing and you’ll probably devour a few plates of them.
Straight From the Kitchen: Before I start with our menu choices of the evening, let me set the stage (American pronunciation) about the folks behind the curtain. Chef Pushkar Marathe’s way with spices and meat-grilling techniques, and his business partner Andy Dugard’s experience in setting the ambiance and directing high quality service, makes this a definite ticket in Boca’s dining scene. Also, interestingly, Chef Marathe had been noted as a semi-finalist for a James Beard Foundation award as Best Chef: South. I wouldn’t be surprised he if earns a Michelin Star soon.
Now for our dinner. Hungry D has a hard time resisting Butter Chicken Masala ($26) at any Indian restaurant we go to. From the first bite and the smile on her face this one hit the grand slam. The chicken was as advertised “like butter,” and the sauce was perfect with creamy tomato sauce of Greek yogurt, a bit of cumin, turmeric, garam masala and cayenne spices.
Hungry H didn’t hesitate on the Local Fish dish of Red Snapper ($39). Besides the fish being perfectly grilled, here again the sauce takes center stage. I can’t necessarily break this one down but I can say, “Who cares!” It was absolutely, incredibly and amazingly delicious.
Hungry Al settled in with Stage’s Niman Iberian Pork Chop ($39). This was wood-grilled over oak embers to a perfect temperature of medium rare. For me it’s the best pork chop in Boca. Especially now that Houston’s took theirs off the menu. The extra bonus was, surprisingly, the side of Fingerling Potatoes. I know this doesn’t sound exciting, but in the hands of a skilled chef it’s another level of cooking. Not to be forgotten: Hungry S made a meal of our meals. Believe me, there was plenty to go around.
From the Dessert Tray: When it comes to desserts Stage doesn’t shy away from the norm. The choices are a Banoff Pie, Cardamon Rose Cheesecake, a Tropical Pavlova or the hit-ofthe-night, their Sticky Toffee Date Cake ($12). Try to imagine a delicious chocolate cake without one bit of chocolate; this defines such a thing. The sweet dates are rendered down into paste and then mixed with flour and sugar. Topped with a sticky ginger toffee sauce you got four forks jackhammering away at a mini Bundt cake. Crazy if you don’t order this!
Check Please: As I have mentioned before it’s important to expand your world of taste by adventuring out to more ethnic restaurants. If Indian food is on your radar I recommend you zone in on Stage. And if you aren’t fond of Indian food don’t worry. Every other international dish they offer will still surpass many of the other restaurants in town. For this evening we take our final bow and honor Stage with four golden Taj Mahals! And I will personally throw in my own equivalent of a Hungry Al’s Michelin-rated Star!
Grape Expectations: Fifty Shades of Grape!
By Ed Wolfarth, who moved to South Florida after retiring with his wife, Vicki, as Professor of Sports Sciences & Physical Education at both Queens College and Hofstra University. He is a nationally ranked senior tennis player and long-time USPTA Elite Teaching Professional. Ed has written many educational and tennis articles in the past. Over the past few years, Ed has turned his hobby of wine collecting into a way of continuing his passion for writing and has written on the subject for publications. As a self-proclaimed “wine snob,” he has collaborated on many wine lists for private clubs and a few restaurants. Ed can be reached at wolfarth@msn.com.
I often bristle at my friends or dinner companions who dismiss Chardonnay because it’s too oaky, never drink Riesling because it’s cloyingly sweet or simply wouldn’t order a glass of Merlot because of “that movie!”
Not all wine varietals are created equal. Chardonnay can and is made in many diverse Styles. Similarly, not all Riesling is cloyingly sweet. For the ABC crowd (anything but Chardonnay) let’s take a look at the various styles of Chards available in today’s market.
I like to think of Chardonnay as chicken! There’s southern fried chicken, chicken wings, chicken cacciatore, etc. You get my drift? Chicken is a blank palette. It all depends on the winemaker’s style and terroir (soil, climate & topography).
If you have ever tasted crisp, dry Chablis from Burgundy you would never compare it to an oak monster Chard from Napa. Yet both are made from 100% Chardonnay grapes. Wine makers are like chemists. They have the ability and latitude to craft their wines. The way they are fermented, the time in oak barrels, and more factors are all variables that make each wine distinctive and representative of the region they come from and the specific winemaker and producer.
Here are a few Chards you may want to try from different areas. Always look for reliable producers and current vintages. Although many Chards can age, most—especially in the New World (California, all U.S. wines, Australia and New Zealand) are made for early consumption.
California – In Napa, where Chards tend to be bigger, more alcoholic and on the buttery side, reliable producers to look for are: Beringer, Pahlmeyer, Lewis, Peter Michael and Silverado. My current favorite is Truchard from the Carneros region.
In Sonoma, because of its proximity to the ocean, the Chards tend to be lighter and more food-friendly. These wines
are usually fermented in stainless steel vats (very few in oak barrels) and are excellent accompaniments to salads, grilled fish and most barbecue foods. Producers to try in Sonoma are: Stonestreet, Simi, Chalk Hill Kistler, and Chateau St. Jean. My current favorite from Sonoma is Hanzell. France – The white wines made in the Burgundy region of France are always 100% Chardonnay grape. The famous, and probably most expensive, Chard, Le Montrachet, can cost upwards of $1,000 a bottle! In the northern part of Burgundy, a much cooler climate, Chardonnay from Chablis is much different in style. They are often bone dry and crisp, as opposed to the more opulent Chards from the Cote d’Or further to the south. You may have heard of Mersault, Puligny, Chassagne or Pouilly Fuisse. All Chards from the Burgundy region are highly sought after.
Years ago the Negociants of Burgundy were thought of as the big, bad guys. That is, the public perception was that they were producing wines for mass appeal with little concern for quality. That is no longer the case. Joseph Drouhin, Louis Jadot and Joseph Faively are meticulously producing top quality wines. Look for their names on bottles of white Burgundy. All current vintages on the shelves today are excellent.
Recently, I’ve become a big fan of Italian Chardonnay. Seek out a slightly oaked Dream from Jermann. Definitely look for Bramito from Umbria. And, if you can find it, Cantina Terlano from Alto Adige in the Piedmont region. At $25 a bottle one of the most balanced and complex Chards I’ve ever tasted.
Australia – Especially in Western Australia, some of the finest crafted Chards are being produced. Look for almost any Chardonnay from the Margaret River Valley. Cape Mentelle should be readily found. Vasse Felix is extraordinary, a great bargain, but not imported here often. Leeuwin, a bit pricey, is easily found and is regarded as Australia’s finest Chardonnay. Look for the Art Series.
New Zealand – In New Zealand, definitely seek out Kumeu River. While the oaked version may not be the quintessential summer wine, it is by far (in my humble estimation) the finest example of a Burgundian chardonnay–i.e.; Montrachet, at a fraction of the cost. It should cost about $35.
So, what have we learned? Chardonnay comes in many different styles–maybe not 50, but a lot. Climate, soil, topography (terroir) and wine-making techniques can produce completely different and distinctive wines. If you consider yourself an “ABCer”, you really need to expand your tastes and try the “other” Chardonnays. Happy drinking!
Arts
Book Review: “The Safari”
By
Nils A. Shapiro. Nils began his career as Marketing Director for a major book publisher. He has since edited the authors’ manuscripts’ for more than 20 published books, written more than 200 book reviews, served as Publisher of several million-plus circulation national magazines, created the official Yearbooks for teams in Major League Baseball, the National Football League, National Basketball Association and National Hockey League, and “retired” as President of a successful telecommunications company before being appointed Editor of Boca Club News when it was launched in January 2007.
When you are deep into a mystery novel and changed your mind several times about the identity of the murderer, then finally discover who it is—only to realize that the final chapters reveal even more shocking surprises —you know that you are under the spell of a master storyteller.
Having already enjoyed and favorably reviewed author Jaclyn Goldis’s two earlier novels in my Boca Club News columns, I looked forward to this one, which is being published this month. But when I decided to read a few more pages last evening in preparation for writing this column even I did not anticipate staying up until 2 a.m., unable to stop turning the pages until I had reached the end!
Jaclyn Goldis is a young American woman who, after seven years as a practicing attorney, decided that she was instead meant to be a writer—boy, was she right—so she fit what she could into a backpack, traveled the world for a year and settled in Tel Aviv, where she writes in beachside cafes.
Although my own reading tastes lean toward non-fiction I include fiction reviews in consideration of this column’s range of readers, and in 2023 came across this author’s debut novel, “The Chateau,” which so impressed me that I compared it to the best of Agatha Christie; the book proved to be very successful. A year later her second novel, “The Main Character,” showed Jaclyn Goldis to be a consistently genuine talent. I loved it as much as I did her first book.
“The Safari” continues this streak of brilliant work in a story of family dynamics set in one of the world’s most fascinating locales, Africa’s safari country. Odelia Babel is the powerful, wealthy and—still attractive in her early sixties—the CEO of Cirq, a highly successful fashion empire. Her son, Joshua; twin son and daughter, Sam and Bailey; and Joshua’s wife, Davina, all work for Cirq, which Odelia runs with a controlling hand since
Plates
Old Watches
its founder, her husband Aba, passed away some years earlier. The announcement that Odelia is now engaged to marry Asher Bach, the company’s new designer—a handsome, talented man twenty-five years younger than she is but who clearly adores her—comes as a shock to the family, all of whom are now informed that the wedding ceremony will take place at Leopard Sands, the luxurious company-owned safari lodge in Africa that has long been a much-loved place of vacation adventures for the family and tourists.
The book’s narrative unfolds over 44 chapters, each titled with the name of one of the book’s main characters and its story continuing in that person’s voice:
- Odelia herself, whose pre-nuptial excitement is dimmed by a series of threatening, unsigned notes and a negative tarot card reading by her best friend, Gwen;
- Joshua, her older son, second in command at Cirq. A reserved man somewhat lacking in total self-confidence, very much in love with his beautiful wife, Davina, but aware of other men’s attraction to her;
- Davina, the ravishing top model at Cirq who, having just given birth to a daughter, Ruby, has been told by Odelia that her post-pregnancy body may no longer fit the company’s fashion image;
- Asher, the handsome young groom to be, whose design contributions to Cirq and clear adoration of Odelia seem to provide all the reasons needed to overlook the 25-year difference in the couple’s ages;
- Sam, the gay younger son whose excitement about his secret new boyfriend is offset by anger toward his mother, Odelia¸ for her refusal to help him cover serious financial debts;
- Bailey, who is Sam’s twin sister. Always concerned for him, she is a gentle soul whose ambition is to protect the wild animals beyond the lodge from poachers and other dangers.
- Gwen, Odelia’s best friend since childhood. Loyal to Odelia and entirely trusted by her, Gwen has a prison record from many years earlier that the two will never discuss with anyone else. Gwen is an expert with tarot cards; it is she who reveals the negative reading that unnerves Odelia the weekend before the wedding;
- Markus is the safari guide who takes Leopard Sands guests on tours through wild animal territory. Odelia’s family have known him since their childhood;
- Violett, the resort’s long-time General Manager, has been charged with making all the arrangements for the wedding. Although loyal for decades, her request for financial aid to help her ailing, hospitalized grandmother has been denied by Odelia. Violett has always had a special relationship with Joshua ever since he was a small child, and now he convinces Davina that Violett can be trusted to babysit their infant daughter, Ruby, when they are on safari with Markus.
By telling this story through the eyes and voice of each
character we soon begin to understand the feelings and motivation of each toward one another. It is a very effective technique and one that readers will use in attempting to guess the identity of the killer when Odelia is murdered the night before the wedding. Ultimately, what becomes clear is that in a world where lions, leopards, crocodiles and other wild creatures roam free, the most dangerous creature is often human.
Once again, as in her earlier novels, what stands out is the author’s extraordinary imagination and storytelling fluency, at a level so rare that I found myself stopping reading once in a while, taking a moment to savor Jaclyn Goldis’s impressive skills.
As I noted at the opening of this review, the most fascinating surprises in this story just begin after you discover the identity of the murderer! I strongly suggest you get to know Jaclyn Goldis.
“The Safari” is a good place to start.
By
Sonia E. Ravech. Sonia is a native of Massachusetts and a resident of Broken Sound for more than 30 years. She is the mother of four, grandmother of seven and greatgrandmother of four. She has been the facilitator of the Broken Sound Memoir Writers’ Workshop for the past seven years.
I do not mind being alone, I often look forward to it. I like the privacy and lack of commitment. I can sleep late. I can roam around the house in my pajamas all day if I choose. When I work in my garden I don’t have to watch the clock worrying if it’s time to make lunch or prepare dinner. I can be as busy or as lazy as my mood dictates.
I can sit on the deck absorbing the sights and sounds that surround me: the squirrels scampering up the trees, the geckos skittering across the yard, the bees hovering over the marigolds and the birds flitting from the bird feeder to the birdbath, splashing the water up and over their wings. I can curl up with a novel and become immersed in its story without interruption or doze off to the drone of cicada bugs.
When the family arrives to visit I’m refreshed and ready for the tumult. It’s the perfect marriage, the peace and quiet of my alone time and the frenetic energy that surrounds the family.
Being alone is far different from being lonely. Loneliness is stress caused not by being alone but by a lack of satisfactory relationships. A hermit may not feel lonely but, conversely, one can be lonely even when surrounded by many people.
Loneliness follows people throughout their lives. Experts claim that rates are especially high for people in their late twenties, mid-fifties and late eighties. In one’s late twenties choices are commonly made about careers, choosing a life’s partner and where to settle down. At that stage it is common to compare oneself to those who are more successful in their jobs, have more money or appear to be happier. As a result, this becomes a period of stress, withdrawal and loneliness.
The mid-fifties is the time of menopause in women and andropause in men, often resulting in what has been called a midlife crisis. This is also the period when physical disabilities begin to crop up: high blood pressure, arthritis, back pain and diabetes, causing individuals to become aware of their mortality and creating stress, feeling less in control, feeling lonely. In the late eighties the awareness of illness and mortality becomes more pervasive and the risk of dementia is higher. People in this age group often have lost their mates and lifelong friends, causing depression that often leads to stress and loneliness.
Isolation is a leading factor in loneliness. It is important to surround oneself with companionship; to read and join a book club, to participate in volunteerism or other social events.
A new study from the researchers at the University of California-San Diego found that an antidote to loneliness is resilience or optimism, allowing one to roll with the punches, learn from mistakes and develop empathy for others. Those who participate in continuing education throughout their lives are less likely to suffer from loneliness.
Living in Boca Raton is a plus. There are so many opportunities to participate in community events at the library, senior center, museums. To go to the beach and take in all the sights and sounds: children playing, swimmers frolicking, sea gulls soaring. Breathe in the salty air and count your blessings for all that nature provides. Living alone doesn’t mean you have to be lonely. The gift of life at any age is a blessing. How one chooses to live that gift can mean the difference between joy and loneliness.
