Jewish Voice APRIL 2025

Florida Launches Mobile Museums of Tolerance

Last month, the Simon Wiesenthal Center launched its Florida Mobile Museums of Tolerance (MMOTs) at the State Attorney’s Office in Palm Beach County, marking a significant step in the fight against antisemitism, hate, and extremism through education. The MMOTs will be stationed in schools and community centers to facilitate meaningful dialogue and guide students through enlightening workshops that empower them to confront hate, embrace tolerance, and act for social change.

The launch took place during the first meeting of the Palm Beach County Hate Crimes Task Force, which comprises more than a dozen community leaders, law enforcement representatives, and prosecutors. It seeks to raise awareness and combat rising prejudice throughout Florida communities.

“Since our MMOTs first launched in 2021, tens of

Palm Beach Dramaworks Announces 2025-2026 Season

The Crucible, Driving Miss Daisy, The Mountaintop, The Seafarer, and the World Premiere of Vineland Place

A diverse and impressive array of four acclaimed plays and one world premiere, each of which, in its way, speaks with an immediacy to today’s audiences, make up Palm Beach Dramaworks’ 20252026 season, Producing Artistic Director William Hayes announced.

Two of those plays, Katori Hall’s Olivier Award-winning The Mountaintop, which opens PBD’s 26th season on October 24, and Arthur Miller’s Tony Award-winning The

Chief Financial & Operating Officer Rudina Toro, Producing Artistic Director William Hayes, and Managing Director Sue Ellen Beryl

Crucible, beginning March 27, are inspired by moments in American history that resonate deeply but couldn’t be more different. The Mountaintop is a two-character fantasia on Martin Luther King’s last night on earth. The Crucible, of course, is inspired by the Salem witch trials and will feature one of the largest casts in PBD history. The remainder of the schedule is made up of Conor McPherson’s much-lauded The Seafarer, opening December 12, which is set on

Arab Peace Activist Shares Hope for Brighter Tomorrow

Chabad of Palm Beach Gardens recently hosted Loay Al-Shareef, a Saudi Arabian peace activist and social media influencer, for a thought-provoking Q&A session with Rabbi Vigler. Al-Shareef, who arrived in traditional attire — a kandura and ghutra — explained that he wanted to send a message that, although many people who wear these clothes have negative views toward Jews, there are people who wear them who are our friends and allies working on building bridges.

Al-Shareef shared his personal journey from being raised as a very religious Muslim, brainwashed into thinking terrible things about Jews and Israel, to his transformative first encounter with Jewish people in Paris in 2010. He emphasized that many people who hate Jews have never met a Jew and, when they do, many of their beliefs shatter. He has witnessed this firsthand when introducing his friends to Israelis.

Al-Shareef spoke about how his religion can actually work toward uniting people — he highlighted commonalities in language, religious rituals, family values, monotheism, and tikun olam.

His closing message was simple but powerful: The Jews have friends in the Arab world and, together, we will reconcile the tent of Abraham and make him proud.

Florida Launches Mobile Museums of Tolerance on page 3

Palm Beach Dramaworks Announces on page 4

Christmas Eve

The Spirit of Our Nation: Report from Israel

By Rabbi Dovid Vigler

Chana and I recently spent Shabbos in Israel for a family celebration. Though the country is at war, the spirit of our nation is remarkable.

I write these words from our room overlooking the holy Temple Mount and the Old City of Jerusalem. In the background is the Mount of Olives, where both of our grandparents are buried, the oldest cemetery in the world that is still in use, with graves dating back over 3,000 years. We’re deeply connected to this land and we’d like to share some of what we’ve experienced.

Last night, 10,000 Jews gathered in a basketball court in Jerusalem for a musical concert. The place was filled to capacity as the crowd thundered to the arrival of Hanan ben Ari, one of Israel’s most popular singers. It was astonishing to observe the crowd — Jews of all ages and stages, including religious and secular, young and elderly, Sefardi and Ashkenazi,

From the rabbi

yeshiva students, seminary girls, and entrepreneurs. Though they were so young, there were countless survivors of October 7 in the room — soldiers, residents of Israel’s south, and attendees of the Nova Musica Festival. There were also many who had lost friends and family as fallen soldiers, hostages, and civilians.

As he got up on stage, Hanan ben Ari sang songs that electrified the crowd. These weren’t typical pop songs — they were lyrics expressive of the deep traumas our nation has endured. The massive crowd danced and cried, jumping and singing in their seats and in the aisles, shouting the words they clearly knew so well. It was the catharsis we all need. We were laughing and singing all at the same time. It was breathtaking.

He opened by addressing the elephant in the room: We are broken by the war, but we can still sing about it. He sang a song about how we’re at the very bottom, but it’s from here that we can see things we’ve never seen before.

His first song reminded us all that we aren’t the first generation to have suffered such trauma.

Each person is expelled from the Garden of Eden Everyone goes through a flood

Everyone has an Abel that they’re deathly jealous of

In everyone there’s a tower of rebellion and confusion [like the tower of Babel]

Each person goes away from their father’s house [like Abraham]

Everyone almost binds their son [like Isaac] Deep inside there’s a small Sodom that they just want to erase already And there are angels that will save them

And I too dream like Joseph Yes, I was also thrown into a pit History repeats itself in disguise* And like David I make a psalm out of it [I] make a psalm out of it

The show was joy interwoven with grief, aware of the hand of G-d accompanying us even in the darkest of times:

Do not fear, Israel, do not be afraid, For are you not a young lion?

And if a lion roars — who won’t be afraid? Who won’t be afraid?

Men with kippahs danced shoulder to shoulder with bare-headed men. Women dressed modestly alongside their informally dressed peers, regardless of age and observance, were all suddenly united in faith. It was a sight to behold as we all joyously sang:

We are believers, children of believers and we have none (else) to rely on but on our father our father in heaven.

Israel Israel believe in The Lord for He is your aid and your protection

Chana and I have often spoken of the strength of our nation’s faith. But that night we saw it firsthand in this authentic slice of Jewish life that we experienced in the heart of Jerusalem. The nation’s heart is broken but their spirit is soaring. There is no other such nation on earth that can sing and celebrate amid the grief and sorrow, fueled by the passion of their faith.

At one point, the singer disappeared and

reappeared at the other side of the arena, playing from a piano that was rising from the ground. The screens all turned orange as he paid tribute to Yarden Bibas, whose wife, Shiri, and two boys — red heads Ariel and Kfir — were all laid to rest that week after being brutally executed at the hands of their Hamas captors. Their funeral captured the hearts of our nation. The funeral procession made its way through half of Israel with Jews lining the streets to pay tribute to these unfortunate souls who suffered so much at the hands of murderous beasts. In fact, as our flight to Tel Aviv was rerouted through Paris, we were amazed to see a large gathering — with orange balloons — at the Eiffel Tower. As we joined the group, we were told that they were gathering to pay tribute to the Bibas family funeral, with orange balloons to represent the red-headed boys. Even in Paris, the nation stands united.

Once the grief had been filled with faith, Hanan ben Ari took the crowd to the next level, as he sang my most favorite song of his, “Wikipedia.” In this song, he begs to not be reduced to a pigeonhole definition based on our external perceptions, but rather to be viewed as an infinite power — a piece of G-d Almighty — which is what defines us.

Don’t lock me in a cage

Don’t summarize me on Wikipedia

I am everything — I am nothing

Infinite light clothed in a body

So don’t lock me in a cage

The faith was palpable.

And with that, we left the stadium, in the freezing Jerusalem night, seeking a taxi with thousands of our fellow Jews. The night was frigid, but we didn’t even feel it as our hearts were burning with promise for our nation’s future.

Rabbi Dovid Vigler is the spiritual leader at Chabad of Palm Beach Gardens and host of the Jewish Schmooze Radio Show. Email him at rabbi@jewishgardens.com.

HAPPY PASSOVER 2025/5785

Florida Launches Mobile Museums of Tolerance from page 1

thousands of students have experienced our profound content that challenges them to recognize their unique responsibility in shaping their communities and the world,” said Sarah Rogers, Executive Vice President of Development, Southern Region of the Simon Wiesenthal Center. “We are thrilled to bring this groundbreaking effort to Florida and instill in students of all backgrounds a deep sense of personal responsibility in standing up to hate, prejudice, and discrimination.”

“Every act of violence born from prejudice undermines the very fabric of justice and equality we strive to protect. Education stands as one of our most powerful weapons in the battle against hate and extremism,” said Freddie Menard, Supervising Assistant State Attorney for Palm Beach County Hate Crimes Unit and Chair of the Hate Crimes Task Force. “The launch of the Mobile Museums of Tolerance in Florida marks a pivotal moment in the mission to empower communities to recognize and confront bigotry in all its forms. The Hate Crimes Task Force is honored to stand behind this initiative, uniting in our commitment to fight prejudice, eradicate hate, and protect those most vulnerable among us.”

and is so unsentimental and offbeat that it’s the ideal holiday play for PBD; Alfred Uhry’s beloved, Pulitzer Prize-winning Driving Miss Daisy, beginning February 6, which reflects on aging and overcoming prejudice; and the world premiere, on May 15, of Steven Dietz’s Vineland Place, an ingenious mystery that was featured in the company’s 2025 Perlberg Festival of New Plays.

Subscriptions go on sale in April.

2025-2026 SEASON

The Mountaintop By Katori Hall

October 24-November 9, 2025

It’s April 3, 1968. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., having just delivered one of his most memorable speeches, returns to the Lorraine Motel and encounters Camae, a beautiful, mysterious maid. She shares some upsetting news that compels him to confront his life and legacy – “warts and all,” as Hall has said. This spellbinding, inspired fantasia on the great civil rights leader’s last night on earth won the 2010 Olivier Award for Best New Play.

The Seafarer

By Conor McPherson

December 12-28, 2025

It’s a devil of a homecoming when Sharky Harkin returns to Dublin on Christmas Eve to look after his belligerent, alcoholic brother Richard, who’s recently gone blind. Two of their old boozy friends join them for an evening of drinking and poker, and one of them brings along a newcomer, the portentous Mr. Lockhart, who compels Sharky to confront his past. This suspenseful, dark, and humorous fable is a powerful and ultimately moving tale about second chances and redemption.

Driving Miss Daisy

By Alfred Uhry

February 6-22, 2026

This beloved, heartfelt, Pulitzer Prize-winning play is the story of an unlikely, life-changing friendship between Daisy Werthan, a 72-year-old Jewish widow, and Hoke Coleburn, a Black chauffeur hired by her son Boolie. Set in Georgia, the play unfolds over a 25-year period, beginning in 1948. Daisy is initially hostile to Hoke, but despite seemingly insurmountable differences their relationship blossoms into one of mutual respect and affection.

The Crucible

By Arthur Miller

March 27-April 12, 2026

A masterful, riveting exploration of the 1692 Salem witch trials, this timeless and timely Tony Award-winning play is also an allegory for McCarthyism and the House Un-American Activities Committee’s modern-day witch hunts. Convinced that witches are living among them, Salem is gripped by mass hysteria, paranoia, fear, and retribution, with neighbors turning on and turning in neighbors, and religious fervor turning a blind eye to justice. Miller considered The Crucible his finest play.

Vineland Place (World Premiere)

By Steven Dietz

May 15-31, 2026

For young writer Henry Sanders, it seemed like the perfect job: finishing the long-awaited final book of the novelist who was his hero. Hired by the novelist’s widow, Henry finds himself instead in a rapidly developing mystery. Vineland Place is an intimate thriller, filled with dangerous surprises to the final pages.

Steven

Palm Beach Dramaworks is a professional, nonprofit theatre company founded in 2000 and located in the heart of downtown West Palm Beach. Each season, the award-winning company produces five shows and offers a wide variety of programs for students at the theatre and in schools. Committed to fostering the future of theatre, PBD has become a hub for playwrights in Florida and around the country to nurture their work through the Perlberg Festival of New Plays. PBD is a member of Theatre Communications Group, Florida Professional Theatres Association, the Cultural Council of Palm Beach County, and NNPN. In 2024, PBD was honored as NonProfit of the Year by the Chamber of Commerce of the Palm Beaches.

Evening performances are Wednesday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. Matinee performances are Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday at 2 p.m.

Post-performance discussions follow Wednesday and Thursday matinees. There are a few differences in the schedule for The Seafarer due to the Christmas holiday. Please check palmbeachdramaworks.org for dates. Subscription packages are available for four or five plays. Single tickets go on sale on July 22. Individual tickets for all performances are $95, except for opening night of each production ($115) and previews ($75). Student tickets are available for $15 with a valid K-12 or university/college ID, and anyone under 40 pays $40 (no additional fees) with a photo ID. Tickets for educators and active military are half price with proper ID (other restrictions apply). Group rates are also available. Tickets can be purchased through the box office, in person, or by phone (561.514.4042, ext. 2), and online 24 hours a day at palmbeachdramaworks.org.

Time for a change? Burns Wealth Management Group

Katori Hall

Conor McPherson

Arthur Miller

Dietz

The Don & Ann Brown Theatre is located in the heart of downtown West Palm Beach, at 201 Clematis Street.

Alfred Uhry

LocaL happenings

Inaugural, Community-Wide Pride Shabbat

Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County invites everyone to the Inaugural Community-Wide Pride Shabbat — a celebration of our welcoming community and Jewish values. This special event will be held April 25, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Lake Pavilion, 101 South Flagler Drive in West Palm Beach.

The goal of the evening is to bring together people of all backgrounds to honor and embrace the LGBTQ+ community while fostering a welcoming culture in Jewish Palm Beach.

The event will celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and serve as a communal gathering with a chance to connect, engage, and strengthen the Jewish community’s commitment to welcoming everyone.

“We are proud to celebrate the beautiful intersection of Jewish values and LGBTQ+ pride,” said Michael Hoffman, president and CEO, Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County. “This event is a testament to our dedication to building a Jewish Palm Beach where everyone is welcome and feels seen and valued.”

Couvert is $36 per person and includes a buffet dinner. Attendees under 21 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. No couvert for children 10 and under. RSVP by Monday, April 21, to pride@jewishpalmbeach.org or call 561.242.6676.

Tampa General Performs West Palm Beach Man’s

Lifesaving Transplant Surgery

Sister Served as Living Kidney Donor

as a donor. “Ben and I were not close at all,” said Vasquez. “Regardless, he’s my brother, and I know he has a daughter the same age as mine. I just couldn’t wrap my mind around the idea of his daughter losing him.” So in March 2024, she clicked the link in the post and started the process.

On August 1, 2024, Diaz had kidney transplant surgery at Tampa General. With the surgery completed in Tampa, Diaz seamlessly transitioned back home to Palm Beach County, continuing postsurgical care under Dr. Oncu. On February 1, 2025, he reached the crucial six-month mark after his surgery, when there is a lower risk of his body rejecting the organ. Plus, he no longer needs to take high blood pressure medication.

Diaz is grateful for his new lease on life, and for the care he’s received. “Dr. Oncu is amazing. I love that guy!” he said. “We’ve developed a strong bond through this whole process and have connected on so many levels.”

“Ben is an inspiration to many people. I have been amazed with his positive attitude through this process,” said Dr. Oncu. “Dialysis isn’t easy and at times it can be overwhelming to the patient. However, Ben just keeps on battling, no matter what.”

After many years working multiple odd jobs to make ends meet, Diaz credits his CKD diagnosis with motivating him to pursue a full-time career in the recording industry. Currently, he creates and performs alternative/hip-hop music under the name Simbolikk, and works with other artists as an audio engineer. “My recording career always took a back seat,” said Diaz. “Now it’s front and center.”

Diaz and Vasquez now share a much closer relationship. She said they FaceTime on an almost daily basis. “He checks in with my daughter, Angelise, too, asking her how she’s doing with her gymnastics and stuff,” said Vasquez.

“We Did Our Job”

Boynton Beach resident Ed Wasserman is a World War II combat veteran who turns 100 in June — and while that alone makes him less than one percent of his peers still alive, the story of survival, courage, and compassion of this Germanborn Jew is even more rare.

Born in Recklinghausen, Germany, in 1925, Ed was the middle son of three boys. His brother Herb was just 13 months older than Ed, and the baby, Fred, was five years younger than Ed. In 1933, when he was just eight years old and Hitler was gaining power, Ed and his brothers were moved out of the Lutheran school they attended and were sent to a Jewish school, where eight grade levels were all housed and taught by the same teacher — a senile senior citizen.

Ben Diaz knew something was terribly wrong when he began slurring his words. The 27-year-old West Palm Beach native had also been suffering from everworsening headaches and nausea. Living in Texas at the time, he promptly went to a local hospital emergency room, where an ultrasound found his kidneys functioning at only 8 percent and the kidney tissue completely scarred. Doctors diagnosed Diaz with chronic kidney disease (CKD).

CKD is progressive and often goes unnoticed until symptoms appear. It can lead to serious health complications, including heart attack, stroke, and kidney failure. If kidney failure occurs, patients go on dialysis and a kidney transplant is needed.

“I had no family history of kidney disease,” said Diaz. “It was a bit of an anomaly based on my age. The doctors said it was most likely genetic.” He started peritoneal dialysis immediately, and the search began for a kidney donor. Each April, National Donate Life Month brings national attention to the need for, and importance of, organ donation. According to the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), more than 103,000 people are currently waiting for organ transplants in the United States, and 87 percent of those are for kidney transplants. The average wait time for a kidney transplant is four years –sooner if a living donor is found.

Wishing to be closer to family, Diaz relocated to West Palm Beach, where his care transferred to Dr. Kerim Oncu with Tampa General Hospital (TGH) Advanced Kidney Care. Dr. Oncu specializes in nephrology, hypertension, and kidney transplant care. He has more than 16 years of experience and completed his medical training at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. Tampa General ranks No. 1 in the nation for transplants by volume and performs more kidney transplants than any other hospital in Florida, per the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN). Since 2020, the academic health system has been creating a framework of state-of-the-art services for patients in the Palm Beaches and on the Treasure Coast, with access to Tampa General for complex care when needed.

At first, Diaz’s mother volunteered to donate one of her kidneys. She was a match but, unfortunately, tests determined she did not have enough viable function to donate. After seeing a social post to family with a plea to help Diaz, his half-sister Ashley Vasquez in North Carolina stepped forward

“There are special people that you encounter in life who make an indelible impression on you. Ben is one of those special people,” said Dr. Oncu. “You just are happier whenever you are around him. I feel blessed to be part of his medical team and feel tremendous joy for how well he is doing. No one deserves it more than him!”

For more information about Tampa General Hospital Advanced Kidney Care, visit TGH.org/ThePalmBeaches or call 561-739-4TGH (4844).

Two years later, the children’s parents were forced to make a choice no parent ever wants to make. Herb and Ed were sent across the ocean to live in an orphanage in Chicago. Six months after arriving, the brothers went to live with a paternal aunt in the Bronx, where they were joined by their parents and younger brother a few years later.

Local Happenings on page 7

Ben Diaz

Polly and Ed Wasserman

Doug Glenn and Ed Wasserman

In 1942, Herb was drafted as an engineer. At 18, Ed enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving with the 94th Chemical Mortar Battalion. He jokes that the “chemical” was smoke, but the reality is that there wasn’t a whole lot to joke about. The battalion’s job was to fire smoke, tear gas, or other chemical agents to disrupt enemy operations. He feels fortunate that the only chemicals he ever had to deploy were smoke and white phosphorus.

Ed served in England, France, and Germany, and he and Herb, whose unit was infantry-based, both ended up fighting just 15 kilometers from his hometown of Recklinghausen, in direct contact with German soldiers. Ed recalls that when he came face to face with the enemy, his ever-compassionate brother Herb used his exceptional communication and persuasion skills to convince German soldiers to put down

their weapons and surrender, rather than see more bloodshed, horror, and loss of life.

After the war ended, Ed married in upstate New York and had one daughter, with whom he speaks every day. After his first wife passed, he met Polly; the pair’s first date was at Bagels And in Boynton Beach. They have been married for 26 years.

Before passing, Herb was interviewed for Steven Spielberg’s Shoah Foundation as part of its Visual History and Education Program. Ed says of his older brother, “Herb always was the one in the spotlight.” And while Herb

may have been more visible, Ed is an American hero — one of the last of what has become known as the Greatest Generation. When asked about his contributions to World War II, Ed shrugs and says simply, “We did our job.”

In 2013, Ed signed up to make a once-in-a-lifetime mission with Southeast Florida Honor Flight, where he was matched with volunteer guardian Doug Glenn of Jupiter. The two met a week prior to the Honor Flight, but seeing the World War II monument, finding the Kilroy hidden therein, being thanked by hundreds of passersby, and shaking hands with the likes of former senator and fellow World War II veteran Bob Dole was an unforgettable experience that bonded Wasserman and Glenn for the rest of their lives. The two still get together to catch up, and Glenn says he cannot imagine his life without the gift of this amazing man.

Glenn says he is grateful to Southeast Florida Honor Flight and volunteer veteran coordinator Veronica Stein for giving him a chance to meet this American hero, and he looks forward to celebrating Ed’s 100th birthday in June. But he also recognizes with a bit of melancholy that it won’t be long before even the one percent of veterans like Ed Wasserman who made up the Greatest Generation are no longer walking among us, so he wants to make sure we celebrate Ed and those like him while we can.

Temple Judea recently partnered with Saint Marks and Good Shepherd churches for a community food packing event aimed at providing essential nutrition to children in Bondeau, Haiti. The collaborative effort successfully prepared over 75,000 meals that have been shipped to the region to address food insecurity among vulnerable youth. The event brought together volunteers from three religious communities, demonstrating the power of interfaith cooperation for humanitarian causes. Participants

worked in assemblyline fashion, measuring and packaging nutrientrich meal components designed specifically to combat malnutrition. These meals, consisting of rice, dried vegetables, vitamin supplements, and protein, provide balanced nutrition critical for childhood development.

Stephen Miller • Elizabeth Miller Editor Wendy Bernstein Sales

Tom English, Margo Williams, Laura Berrio, Bret McCormick

Miranda Ledbeter, Alyssa Debban, Corey Bank Anissa Stender

Production Manager Lee Nostrant

Production Department

Elaine Donholt • Ruth Nekoranec • Katie Heystek

Dianne Strout • Karen Kalisz • Michelle Feeney Andie Reynolds

“When we come together across faith traditions, we amplify our impact,” said a representative from Temple Judea. “Hunger doesn’t discriminate, and neither should our response to it. This partnership with Saint Marks and Good Shepherd shows what’s possible when we focus on our shared values of compassion and service.”

This initiative reflects the core values of tikkun olam (repairing the world) that guides Temple Judea’s community outreach efforts. By working alongside their Christian neighbors, the congregation demonstrated how interfaith cooperation can create meaningful change for communities in need.

Federation Leads Humanitarian Mission to Cuba

In late February, nearly two dozen community leaders joined with Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County on a humanitarian mission to Cuba. These individuals donated approximately 5,000 pounds of food, medicine, hygiene products, and children’s books to the impoverished Cuban Jewish community. Most of the leaders on this mission had previously completed training through Federation’s Mandel Center for Leadership Development.

In the following article, Federation President and CEO Michael Hoffman shares about Jewish life in Cuba, both decades ago and today. He discusses why leaders from Jewish Palm Beach traveled to this island and how the conditions in this dynamic community were shocking and upsetting, yet also heartwarming and inspiring.

First, a bit of background on Jewish life in Cuba: Before the Cuban revolution in 1959, historians estimate 250,000 Jews lived in Cuba. Many came seeking a haven from pre- or post-WWII Europe, or from the pogroms of early 20th-century Eastern Europe, and still others can trace their lineage as refugees from the Spanish Inquisition. They found the refuge they sought. In the more than six decades since then, approximately 90 percent of the island’s Jews have escaped the political, religious, and economic hardships. The few hundred who remain are doing what Jews are hardwired to do — they are keeping Jewish life and learning alive. And they do this despite harsh political and economic realities.

There are so many experiences I’d like to share with you, but here are a few highlights:

Jewish Religious Practice

Our group visited two synagogues in Havana that manage to keep their doors open at least a few days each month despite blackouts, fuel shortages, transportation crises, and the frightening scarcity of food. They are true centers of Jewish life operated primarily by volunteers and with the assistance of Federation’s global partners at the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC). The synagogues and volunteers serve many roles, including providing religious instruction, basic medical care through makeshift pharmacies and, perhaps most importantly, a sense of community for Cuban Jews.

Without a rabbi on the island, a group of young people in their 20s expertly led Friday night services, which they had learned to do from family members and volunteers. The prayer books were in Spanish and Hebrew, but most of the people in our group don’t speak Spanish and most of the congregants don’t speak English. So, we communicated in the universal language of prayer as we covered our eyes to recite the Shema (a centerpiece of Jewish prayer services and considered one of the most essential Jewish prayers), and as we put our arms around each other while singing Oseh Shalom Bimromav (a Jewish prayer for peace).

The group outside El Patronato synagogue

Desire for Jewish Life

Among the close to 5,000 pounds of food and other desperately needed items we brought with us were dozens of challahs that will be frozen at the synagogue and used for the next year, as well as Shabbat candles so Cuban Jews can keep the flame of Jewish life kindled.

After Friday night services, we joined our Cuban hosts for a Shabbat dinner and witnessed the amazement from the attendees when they saw challah on the table — a rare luxury since Cubans are only allowed to purchase five eggs per person each month with their ration cards.

Jewish Education

It’s hard for us here in the Palm Beaches to imagine the daily struggle of life in Cuba to simply acquire food. Add to that unpredictable rolling blackouts. Now imagine a darkened synagogue without air conditioning, where dozens of children, their parents, grandparents, and young adults gather to take part in Jewish life.

Sunday school, Bar and Bat Mitzvah training, ceremonies remembering murdered Israeli hostages, and rehearsals for an upcoming Purim celebration — these are all part of Jewish life in Cuba.

The Singles Scene Column©

Keepsake Love Notes from Your Matchmakers

By Kelly Leary, M.S. & Miranda Capparelli

“It’s important for people to remember that we are the creators of our lives instead of the victims of it.” ~ Dr. Joe Dispenza

Happy Spring from our Revolution Family to yours. This month--we are gifting you some extra love because we are so thankful to you all. Keepsake love notes are special because they hold sentimental value. These love notes are designed specifically for our loyal readers, Single or Taken. The annotations below physically represent the care and research we put into our work. You can hold on to these love notes or pass them along to someone who may need to hear them. Read to the end to discover the most vital note--guaranteed to elevate your mindset this month.

♥Practice kindness. If you don’t practice kindness in life, love, work and play, you will reap what you sow. One of the biggest turnoffs is coming into the gate – or date, or room, or party – with a bad attitude.

♥First impressions matter. We have learned that your impression of a person usually forms in the first 60 seconds. So make sure that your “hello” is a good one.

♥Age is just a number! It’s never too late, but don’t get stuck on the bench. You are not getting any younger.

♥Love begets love. Our office rule is: “Only Love is Spoken Here!” Go on a date with this in mind, and you will get a second date! No one likes a grouch.

♥ Successful Dating requires Time, Money, and Emotion: Dating is a “Relationship Investment” of all three, so get used to it. With our pre-screened clients, relationships move along quickly and yield a higher ROI. If you don’t invest, you won’t progress.

♥Inner beauty trumps exterior beauty every day of the week. Looks don’t mean a thing when it comes to success in date-land. Exterior beauty might get you in the door, but can you get a second date? Inner beauty is key.

♥If you are striking out, look in the mirror and soul search. Are you doing the work to be your best self? Or are you expecting your matchmaker to deliver love to your doorstep like a pizza? Matchmaking is a collaboration. Connect, bond, show your good side, listen to feedback, cooperate, and be open to advice. If you go to your doctor and don’t listen to one word of his advice, fail to take your medicine and remain sick, is it your doctor’s fault? No.

♥ Don’t be too picky. We have a female client who won’t date a man under 6’4”. If your criteria is strict, be prepared to wait longer than someone more open-minded. High standards are acceptable if you understand the other person must like YOU back. Dating is a combat sport. Be realistic and self-aware.

♥Men bear the brunt of dating. So ladies, don’t abuse this love note or use them for a free meal. Always be courteous and say “thank you!”

♥Maintain an attitude of gratitude. This applies to your love life and far beyond.

♥ More good than bad. If your date is relatively reasonable and only a bit questionable, give it the green light and continue to the next date.

♥50:50. This is about talking too much--not paying the tab! While dating, keep an eye on your conversation and your listening skills. Take turns. Your discussion should

be shared equally. If someone is doing 90% of the talking, there is a problem. You won’t get the second date.

♥When you break up, do it with class. Don’t break up through an email or text. Be forthright but humble.

♥Grieving is brutal but essential. Everyone has their own timeline. You will know when you are ready to get back in the game. In this day and age, seniors are dating after losing a spouse, and they are finding a new companion. Avoid comparisons. Give yourself permission to start a new chapter with new actors and a new plot.

♥Join the love movement just for YOU. Stand up for something that you want in your life moving forward. Be part of your own solution, not your own problem. Get out of your own way.

♥ Cowards never start, winners never quit, and quitters never win. Don’t ever quit on love. Remember, fear is the opposite of love.

♥Dating is a journey. There will be highs and lows. Focus on the destination.

♥Online dating is a horror story. You could lose it all--the same way people can lose themselves in Las Vegas! Stop rolling the dice. If you stay too long, you may never come back emotionally or physically. Turn on any streaming service, and you will see the reality of online dating. The following stories are based on true life events.

Here is a list made just for you by your matchmakers:

-Lover, Stalker, Killer

-Love, Janessa (Podcast Series)

-The Tinder Swindler

-Dirty John

-Sweet Bobby: My Catfish Nightmare

-Fake Profile

-Why Did You Kill Me?

-Untold: The Girlfriend Who Didn’t Exist

Thank you so much for following the real matchmakers for over three decades! This month, we are celebrating 34 years in the love industry and eleven years of Revolution Dating (a brick-and-mortar powerhouse of a business). We invite you to join us in our LOVE movement. You have arrived.

Much Love & Gratitude,

Kelly & Miranda

#34YearsOfExperience #WhyWaitJustDate #LoveOffline #MatchmakingRoyalty #TellYourFriends #ComeAliveIn2025

Kelly Leary© has 34 years in the dating industry and a master’s degree in clinical psychology. She has been written about in Modern Luxury Magazine Palm Beach and Modern Luxury Manhattan, The Palm Beach Post, The Shiny Sheet, Stuart News, Jupiter Magazine, and many more.

Revolution Dating clients are pre-screened in person, including background checks and ID verification. Professional photos are taken by the staff. Revolution Dating is NOT online dating or blind dating. In addition to providing matchmaking services that make singles “UN-single” through their exclusive club memberships, Kelly and her A-List Team also provide feedback from dates when appropriate. Mock Dates are available by request. Single Coaching Sessions and Evaluations are also available by request for non-members or as an addon to some memberships. *All inquiries are confidential *Specializing in representing jet-setting clients with a second home in the Northeast/Tri-State Area. Do call the central hotline at 561-630-9696 (XOXO) or scan the QR code below to hold your place in the club. Time flies!

Our Takeaways

While our group brought gifts of incredibly needed donations, we received the gift of a new understanding of Jewish life in Cuba, and we most certainly left behind a piece of our hearts with our Cuban Jewish brothers and sisters. I am deeply grateful to the volunteer leaders who took part in this incredible journey with Federation. I’m reminded of a quote by Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks of blessed memory: “Never believe that a handful of dedicated people can’t change the world. Inspired by faith, they can.”

Lighthouse ArtCenter Opens State-of-the-Art Glass Studio

Lighthouse ArtCenter proudly announces the grand opening of its newly renovated Glass Studio, a cutting-edge space dedicated to fused glass artistry. As the only glass studio in North Palm Beach County, this upgraded facility features seven kilns, state-of-the-art equipment, and expanded workspace, allowing for more advanced classes and specialty workshops. Carolyn Austin

Children preparing to lead the prayer over challah Cleaning graves at the Jewish cemetery

Jewish public art

October 7 memorial

Shabbat dinner

“This renovation is truly transformative,” said Carolyn Austin, Glass Studio manager and instructor. “Having the space and equipment to support more advanced techniques and visiting artist workshops is a game-changer. Our students make this place special — there’s a real sense of community here, where people can leave their worries behind and immerse themselves in creativity.”

Made possible by a generous anonymous donor, the renovation involved major electrical upgrades, new flooring, improved lighting, and new workspaces, creating a modern, inviting environment for artists of all levels. The Glass Studio offers a diverse lineup of classes and workshops, including beginner-friendly mini workshops, Beach Chimes and Reimagined Art Animals by Jennifer Rubenstein, and a variety of more advanced classes, including an upcoming Glass Houses class in May with Carolyn Austin.

“The Lighthouse ArtCenter continues to grow as a hub for creativity, and the Glass Studio expansion is an exciting milestone,” said Jeni Licata, director of education. “Glass art is not only visually stunning but also has immense therapeutic benefits — it fosters relaxation, builds confidence, and provides a sense of accomplishment.”

For more information, visit lighthousearts.org or call (561) 746-3101.

Champagne and Connection

The women of Chabad of Palm Beach Gardens recently gathered for a meaningful day of connection and remembrance.

Rebbitzen Chana Vigler started the program by inspiring participants with insights about women who have played a crucial role in keeping our people strong throughout history.

Hearts were touched deeply by Orna Neutra, who shared memories of her beloved son Captain Omer Neutra, who gave his life defending Israel on October 7, 2023. Through her tears, Orna spoke about Omer’s wonderful smile and how he dreamed of bringing people together in peace and making sure no one ever felt left out.

Jan Burke was honored with the Ladies in Leadership Award for supporting Chabad over the years. As a founding member, Jan has been a pillar of strength and wisdom since the very beginning, helping to build the community from the ground up with endless warmth and dedication.

Journalists Ariella Noveck and Brittany Hopper described their commitment to accurate reporting and shared examples of how they work to ensure fair coverage of Israel, particularly during times of crisis.

The Pet Cottage

Bonded Pairs: Two Hearts, One Home

The Comfort of Companionship

Just like people, animals form deep emotional bonds. Whether they’re littermates, lifelong housemates, or best friends who found each other later in life, their connection provides stability, confidence, and a sense of security — especially during times of upheaval.

When bonded pairs are separated, they often experience:

• Depression and withdrawal — losing interest in food, play, or interaction

• Increased anxiety — pacing, whining, or destructive behavior as they search for their missing companion

• Health issues — stress-related illnesses or weakened immune systems due to emotional distress

Keeping them together eases their transition into a new home, helping them feel safe and secure as they adjust to their new environment.

The Reward of Welcoming a Bonded Pair

For Guardians, welcoming a bonded pair into their home means twice the love, twice the joy! These pets bring an instant sense of family, often providing companionship and entertainment for each other. They play together, nap together, and look out for one another, making them easier to integrate into a new home than many expect.

Many bonded pairs are already well-adjusted, socialized, and trained, making the experience smoother for their new families. Plus, there’s something truly special about witnessing the deep unspoken connection between two animals who have spent a lifetime together.

Forever Homes for Lifelong Friends

Some of our most heartwarming success stories come from bonded pairs finding their perfect Forever Guardians. Sofia and Skylar, a bonded brother-and-sister Maltipoo duo, lost their mom suddenly in 2023. Alone and terrified, they were rescued by The Pet Cottage and placed with Ellen and Bryan Daly, where they have since thrived. Now, they spend their days happily by each other’s side,

completely adjusted and loved in their new home with their dog companion, Betty.

For Shamus and Fiona, two senior dogs left behind after their owner’s passing, staying together made all the difference. They found comfort and stability in their Forever Guardian family, allowing them to continue their golden years with the love and security they deserve.

For Smokey and Simba , bonded brother cats, staying together meant everything. After their owner suffered a severe injury, The Pet Cottage ensured they were placed with a loving Forever Guardian, where they continue to thrive — even after Simba developed diabetes. Thanks to TPC’s lifelong medical support, they remain healthy, happy, and together.

How You Can Help

By becoming a Lifelong Guardian for a bonded pair, you’re not just giving them a home — you’re preserving a relationship that means everything to them. The Pet Cottage ensures that no Guardian has to take on this commitment alone, covering veterinary care and offering ongoing support.

If you’re ready to change two lives forever, consider welcoming a bonded pair into your heart and home. Your support makes these matches possible. Donate today and help us keep best friends together, where they belong!

The Pet Cottage, Wendy Derhak, founder/executive director; to schedule a tour or for more information, contact us at 561-818-5025. Learn more at thepetcottage. org. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Local Happenings on page 11

At The Pet Cottage, many of the pets who come to us arrive in bonded pairs — siblings or lifelong companions who have spent every moment together. When they lose their human, they rely on each other for comfort and security. Separating them can cause profound distress, anxiety, and depression, making their transition even more heartbreaking.

That’s why we are dedicated to keeping bonded pairs together. Through our Lifelong Guardianship Program, we ensure these pets remain by each other’s side, finding a new home where they can continue their journey together.

Shamus

Simba and Smokey

Skylar and Sofia

Sofia and Ellen

Purim Shabbat: A “Wicked

Good” Celebration

Allison Cohen and Cole — offered a meaningful prelude to the Kaddish, connecting themes of remembrance and relationship in a touching moment of reflection.

Temple Judea’s Purim Shabbat celebration embraced the imaginative theme Wonderfully Wicked Shabbat, transforming Friday night services into a magical journey through Oz. The sanctuary buzzed with excitement as Rabbi Yaron took on the role of the Wizard himself, guiding the congregation through a service in which familiar prayers met Broadway flair.

Cantorial Soloist Alex Schecter shared his original Tin Man’s poignant rendition of “If I Only Had Shabbat,” which brought smiles across the room, while Cantorial Soloist Kaylene Cole, in her role as Glinda, gave a powerful performance of “Defying Gravity,” elevating the Romero prayer to new heights. The creative interpretations continued as “Because I Knew You” – a powerful duet between Rabbi

The evening wasn’t just about spectacular performances, but also about community milestones. Cole shared the joyful news that she and her husband had recently purchased a home closer to Temple Judea, prompting warm applause and a chorus of “mazel tovs” from the congregation. Her announcement that “there’s no place like home” resonated perfectly with both the Oz theme and the genuine sense of belonging that pervaded the sanctuary.

As congregants mingled at the end of the service, many commented on how the creative celebration had managed to honor both Jewish tradition and communal connections while bringing an extra measure of joy to their Purim observance.

Benzaiten Center for Creative Arts

Master Murano Chandelier Maker, Fabiano Zanchi Returns to the Center!

Everyone last year adored watching and learning from Murano Master Glassblower, Fabiano Zanchi that the Benzaiten Center decided to bring him back for a return visit. He will be conducting a one-week “Chandelier Workshop,” which was sold out in a week. During this special workshop, he will be providing the armature and wiring necessary to create a working light fixture. He will also be producing a couple of his own that he will be leaving at the center for sale. For anyone wanting to purchase a customized chandelier, please let the center know and Fabiano can make one according to your specifications and colors.

He will also be conducting one of the center’s highly

anticipated Friday night “Artist Blow-Outs” on April 25 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. We strongly advise people to sign up online ahead of time as these events get sold out fast. The normal fee for attending these blow-outs is $25 for open seating and $50 for reserved premium seating. These are super-charged events that include live music, drinks and nibbles. This is the only such place on the east coast of Florida where one can see this caliber of artist performing in real time, up close and personal.

Last year the center expanded their Hot Shop by adding another workspace. They also took on additional staff. They did all of this so they could begin offering Sunday classes and more evening classes. Please call the center if you are interested in taking either Sunday or evening classes so your name can be put on a waiting list.

To learn more about all their many classes, workshops, and fun events please visit the center’s website or contact the Benzaiten office by calling the number below. It is also well worth spending some time perusing their website at the link below.

www.benzaitencenter.org

(561) 508-7315

inspired@benzaitencenter.org

Hours

Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Find Us

1105 Second Avenue South, Lake Worth Beach, FL 33460

GPS doesn’t always get you here: Exit I-95 at Sixth Avenue and go east. Take a left at the blue Kwik Stop Store and then a right on Third Avenue South. Park in our parking lot or anywhere on the street.

Fabiano Zanchi with Amber Hauch assisting (Photo by Gail Haines)

Fabiano’s sold chandelier that he made last year (Photo by Peter Debe)

community caLendar

Chabad of Palm Beach Gardens

6100 PGA Blvd., Palm Beach Gardens

624.2223, www.jewishgardens.com

Morning Services

Sundays, 9 a.m.

Monday to Friday, 7:30 a.m.

Evening Services

Monday to Thursday, 7 p.m.

Sundays 10 a.m., Hebrew School

Mondays

8:30 a.m., Weekly Parsha

6:30 p.m., Hebrew Reading & Writing

Tuesdays

8:30 a.m., Chassidus: Chabad Philosophy 11 a.m., Ladies’ Ethics Class

1 p.m., Ladies’ Mahjongg & Cards

Wednesdays

8:30 a.m., Weekly Parsha

11:30 p.m., Yiddish Club (Ending May 1, 2024) 1:45 p.m., Ladies’ Torah Studies

Thursdays

8:30 a.m., Chassidus: Chabad Philosophy 11 a.m., Shul Orientation Seminar

4:30 p.m., Bar & Bas Mitzvah Club

6:30 p.m., Hebrew Comprehension

Fridays

8:30 a.m., Video Farbrengen with the Rebbe

6:15 p.m., Friday Night Services w. Beer & Biltong

Shabbos

9:30 a.m., Shabbos Service

education

I Don’t Want to Go to Hebrew School

By Andy Greenberg

When faced with the parental requirement to receive a Jewish education, in many Jewish homes around the country children frequently reply, “I don’t wanna go to Hebrew school!”

The standard response is: “Too bad — you have to! We’ll talk about it again when you’re done with your B’nai Mitzvah.”

When young Jason Alexander, who played George on Seinfeld, was faced with the same prospect, his mother reportedly had a different response: “You have to go to Hebrew school because one day somebody might kill you because you are a Jew and you might as well know what you’re dying for!”

He, of course, went — and when he had kids he basically repeated the same thing to them!

But there are better answers.

It has been determined by secular educators that the younger a person is when they begin to learn a second language, the more academically advanced they will be — with a stronger sense of achievements as they progress to higher levels of education. Evidence also suggests that an intensive Jewish day school education provides a higher quality of overall secular life and the ability to generate greater income. Those attending Talmud Torah twice a week benefit in terms of time management, critical thinking, in-depth analysis, the ability to dissect the true meaning of a sentence (just like English Lit), listening skills, debating, problem solving, and more. All of these are skills needed for a successful life.

I am a victim and beneficiary of the above. Although I am a practicing conservative Jew, I went to a modern orthodox yeshiva and frankly hated every moment of it when I was forced to go. When I grew up, however, I realized that I had certain talents and skills that most non-Jewish educated day schoolers did not have and, even though I was not the brightest in the world, I was able to outthink and be more creative than others, with a rapid advancement through corporate America, and able to accomplish things that previously had been deemed impossible.

We haven’t even begun to examine the benefits of a B’nai Mitzvah. This is one of the best educational processes available!

A student learns one of the rarest skills at a very, very young age: public speaking. It has also been shown that the student’s level of self-confidence and self-esteem is enhanced as a result of all the compliments they get from family members and congregants once the ritual is completed. Their own sense of pride and achievement remains with them as a lifelong catapult in training them to take on additional challenges that earlier felt insurmountable.

I suppose my biggest failure was when I could not come up with a good enough answer when my high school son asked: “Why didn’t you send me to Jewish day school?”

Of course the true purpose of a Jewish education is to learn our history, beliefs, rituals, and how to get along with God, ourselves, and others on planet earth. So whether it’s Jewish day school or Talmud Torah, Jewish education is l’chaim!

Andy Greenberg is a 25-year Conservative Jewish educator of grades 3-12 and a lecturer for adults of all ages.

11:15 a.m., Children’s Program

11:30 a.m., Rabbi Vigler’s Weekly Sermon

12:15 p.m., Community Kiddush Luncheon

April

CTeenU: Jewish Business Ethics

Tuesday, April 16 at 5:30 p.m.

High Schoolers earn College credits while learning about Judaism! Learn timeless Jewish wisdom on money, integrity, ethics and self-worth empowering teens with the critical tools they need to become the leaders of tomorrow! Sponsored By: In partnership with Yeshiva University, NYC and CTEEN

International

Virtual Speed Dating Event

Sunday, April 21

Harnessing the power of Chabad as the largest Jewish organization on Earth, each candidate is verified by their own Chabad rabbi, so you know that you’re dealing with a safe and reliable prospect. Using powerful tools like virtual speed dating with our sophisticated algorithms, as well as local events and an app that is in the works, Met@Chabad is sure to change the way that Jews get married, everywhere.

Sign yourself up at MetAtChabad.com/SpeedDating or call 561.624.2223 ext 8

Community Passover Seders

Monday - Tuesday, April 22 - 23

Pesach means “the mouth that speaks” because the Mitzvah of the evening is to talk to our friends and family about our rich Jewish heritage. At Chabad, we pride ourselves in making Seders experiences that are equally uplifting and nurturing for souls and engaging for minds, as they are pleasing to the palates.

Moshiach Farbrengen

Tuesday, April 30 at 12 p.m.

May Bereavement Group

Wednesday, May 1, 15 and 29 at 3 p.m.

Sadly, death is a part of life that we cannot ignore. As a community, we are grateful to have each other for support during difficult times. Led by experienced psychotherapist Dr. Sandi Reiken together with Rabbi Dovid Vigler, our bereavement group is a safe and intimate setting to share your story with other like-minded individuals or just to listen and observe if that is more comfortable for you.

Women’s Tehillim Group

Shabbos, May 4 after Kiddush Luncheon

The power of women’s prayer is legendary in our tradition, particularly when they recite the Psalms of King David on the last Shabbos of the Jewish Month.

CTeenU: Jewish Business Ethics

Tuesday, May 7, 14, 21 and 28 at 5:30 p.m.

High Schoolers earn College credits while learning about Judaism! Learn timeless Jewish wisdom on money, integrity, ethics and self-worth empowering teens with the critical tools they need to become the leaders of tomorrow! Sponsored By:

In partnership with Yeshiva University, NYC and CTEEN International Rosh Chodesh Society

Thursday, May 9 at 12 p.m.

Is there anything wrong with selecting the easiest, least burdensome path at each personal crossroads? This lesson examines the story of Ruth, which highlights shouldering instead of shirking responsibility, unveils our true self-worth, and guides us toward unexpected power.

Friday Night Live: The Woman Who Dares

Friday, May 10

Pamela Braun Cohen is probably one of the most important Jewish women you’ve never heard of.

Her deeply personal story explores the grassroots Soviet Jewish emigration movement through the eyes of one of its indefatigable leaders, focusing on the actions of heroic refuseniks in the Soviet Union as well as courageous individuals in the West – described by Natan Sharansky as the “students and housewives” who waged the battle to free Soviet Jews.

While she was busy fighting for the Soviet brethren she had never met before, she had the unexpected result of finding herself, as she discovered her own faith along the way! Her incredible story of courage and resilience inspires us to overcome the obstacles we encounter in our lives as well.

JLI: Decisions of Fate

May 14, 21, and 28

Judaism’s timeless values provide practical guidance on life-and-death decisions to four painful dilemmas: risky treatments, end-of-life care, abortion, and care of the deceased. Facing these moral dilemmas can be paralyzing. Preparing yourself with Torah’s timeless wisdom serves to mitigate doubt and anxiety and fill you with the confidence to proceed.

Hebrew School Graduation

Sunday, May 19

Shmulik Vigler’s Opshernish

Sunday, May 26

In Celebration of Lag Ba’Omer—The Jewish Festival of Mysticism

I am already turning three and I’m so excited, My beautiful hair will be cut for the very first time and you are invited!

This the beginning of his formal Jewish education, a cause of course for much celebration.

Be there and you’ll get a chance to cut some of my hair. With you, this wonderful tradition I look forward to share.

Lag Ba’omer Bonfire & Party

Sunday, May 26

The power of women’s prayer is legendary in our tradition, particularly when they recite the Psalms of King David on the last Shabbos of the Jewish Month.

Men’s Club: Kosher Wine Tasting Wednesday, March 20 at 5 p.m.

Community Calendar from page 12

Come hang with the guys in a cool and relaxed atmosphere with great food and great company as we experience exciting features in this once monthly men’s get together. Virtual Speed Dating Event

Sunday, May 30

Harnessing the power of Chabad as the largest Jewish organization on Earth, each candidate is verified by their own Chabad rabbi, so you know that you’re dealing with a safe and reliable prospect. Using powerful tools like virtual speed dating with our sophisticated algorithms, as well as local events and an app that is in the works, Met@Chabad is sure to change the way that Jews get married, everywhere. Sign yourself up at MetAtChabad.com/SpeedDating or call 561.624.2223 ext 8

Temple Beth David

4657 Hood Road, Palm Beach Gardens

694.2350, www.templebethdavidfl.org

Daily Minyan Services, Monday to Thursday ~ 6:30 p.m. & Sunday ~ 9:00 a.m. via Zoom.

Shabbat Services, Services are offered in-person and virtually. Please visit our website for more information.

Saturday, April 12, 9:15 a.m., Shabbat Services

Sunday, April 13, 9:15 a.m., Pesach Services

Monday, April 14, 9:15 a.m., Pesach Services via Zoom

Tuesday, April 15, 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., Canasta

All levels welcome. RSVP Required.

Wednesday, April 16, 10 a.m., Yoga L’Chaim, RSVP required, $22/class

Thursday, April 17, 10 a.m., Sisterhood Book Club

Friday, April 18, 6:30 p.m., Shabbat Minyan via Zoom

Saturday, April 19, 9:15 a.m., Shabbat Services

Sunday, April 20, 9:15 a.m., Pesach Services

Tuesday, April 22, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m., Canasta

All levels welcome. RSVP Required.

Friday, April 25, 6:30 p.m., Beach Shabbat Services at Ocean Cay Park

Saturday, April 26, 9:15 a.m., Shabbat Services

Sunday, April 27, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Yom HaShoah Vigil

Tuesday, April 29, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m., Canasta

All levels welcome. RSVP Required.

Friday, May 2, 6:30 p.m., Religious School Shabbat

Saturday, May 2, 9:15 a.m., Shabbat Services

Tuesday, May 6, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m., Canasta

All levels welcome. RSVP Required.

Thursday, May 8, 7 p.m., Yiddish Film Festival Movie Night

Friday, May 9, 6:30 p.m., Shabbat Minyan via Zoom

Saturday, May 10, 9:15 a.m., Shabbat Services

Tuesday, May 13, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m., Canasta

All levels welcome. RSVP Required.

Wednesday, May 14, 7 p.m., Mahjongg

$5pp, RSVP Required.

Thursday, May 15, 10 a.m., Sisterhood Book Club

Friday, May 16, 6:30 p.m., Beach Shabbat Services at Ocean Cay Park

Saturday, May 17, 9:15 a.m., Shabbat Services

Tuesday, May 20, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m., Canasta

All levels welcome. RSVP Required.

Wednesday, May 21, 10:00 a.m., Yoga L’Chaim, RSVP required, $22/class

Friday, May 23, 6:30 p.m., Shabbat Services

Saturday, May 24, 9:15 a.m., Shabbat Services

Tuesday, May 27, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m., Canasta

All levels welcome. RSVP Required.

Friday, May 30, 6:30 p.m., Beach Shabbat Services at Ocean Cay Park

Saturday, May 31, 9:15 a.m., Shabbat Services

Temple Emanu-El of Palm Beach

190 North County Road, Palm Beach 832.0804, officesec@tepb.org

Celebrate Shabbat at Temple Emanu-El of Palm Beach

Friday Night Services at 6:30 p.m., followed by a Shabbat Oneg, Shabbat Bar or Shabbat Dinner

Saturday Morning services at 9:30 a.m., followed by a Kiddush Luncheon

Services are led by Rabbi Michael Resnick and Cantor Meir Finkelstein, accompanied by Claudio Waisgluss. All are welcome to experience the sanctity of our services with their inspirational music, and a time for reflection and strengthening of spiritual connections.

Minyan

Mondays and Thursdays at 8:45 a.m. followed by a Complimentary Breakfast. All are welcome Rabbi’s Round Table

Monday mornings at 11 a.m. via Zoom. Join the rabbi for a spirited and informational class about the teachings of the Torah Most Thursdays at 12 to 3 p.m.

Women’s League Game Day

Open to all! Join us for a fun afternoon of mah-jongg and canasta. Meet new friends or come with existing ones. For

more information and to confirm dates, call the Temple Office at 561-832-0804.

Support Group

For our Caregivers Support Group and please call the Temple Office at 561-832-0804. Zoom meetings are held the 2nd and 4th Thursdays each month at 10 a.m.

Sunday, April 20, 9:30 a.m.

Passover: 8th Day Service with Yizkor followed by Kiddush Lunch

Please join us to celebrate and remember on this 8th day of Passover. Services begin at 9:30 a.m., with Yizkor at approximately 10:30 a.m., followed by a complimentary kiddush lunch. All are welcome to attend.

Wednesday, April 30, 9 a.m.

Kind Kitchen (located in North Palm Beach)

Each month our Social Action Committee brings volunteers to the Kind Kitchen to help pack and prepare meals for our neighbors going through challenging situations such as illness, financial hardship, and more. To donate food or volunteer to assist, please contact the Temple Office at 561-832-0804

Wednesday, April 30, 6 p.m.

Movie Screening of Centered: Joe Lieberman

Join us for a free screening of Centered: Joe Lieberman to learn more about the life and career of the late Senator who made history as the first Jewish Vice-Presidential candidate— and nearly changed the course of American politics. Ever a trailblazer, Lieberman was known for his humor, his independence, and for prioritizing what he believed to be right – sometimes earning the ire of his longtime colleagues.

Friday, May 9, 6:30 p.m.

Mother’s Day Shabbat Bar

Join us for Shabbat evening services and stay for a special Mother’s Day themed complimentary Shabbat Bar. All are welcome to attend.

Friday, May 23, 5:30 p.m.

Dr. Emily Aronoff Family Shabbat

We welcome back Dr. Emily to lead a kid friendly shabbat service starting at 5:30 p.m. Sing, dance, and learn some prayers. We look forward to celebrating Shabbat with you!

Temple Judea

4311 Hood Road, Palm Beach Gardens 624.4633, www.gotj.org

Kindly contact the temple for a listing of worship, study, and social events.

Local Teens “Shine On” Jewish Pride

Recently, 22 local Jewish teens joined 5,000 Jewish teens from around the world for the CTeen Shabbaton experience in New York City.

Led by youth directors Rabbi Yisroel and Raizy Uzvolk, teens were empowered for three days in an incubator of Jewish pride. The action started the moment the group met at the Palm Beach International Airport terminal, where teens and their parents were treated to a fully kosher burger buffet table.

At Chabad headquarters in Brooklyn, thousands of teens from Chabad centers across the world mingled over ping pong and other games and connected over dinner. The weekend featured speeches, seminars, and a concert and Havdalah ceremony in Times Square by popular Jewish music star and former IDF paratrooper Noam Buskilla. Another highlight was the contagious atmosphere of singing and dancing to the tune of Jewish Pride at the top of the Freedom Tower, one of the tallest observation decks in New York.

The weekend included Ground Zero, illusionists, basketball and soccer tournaments, New York pizza, the Ohel, the Statue of Liberty, Ted Talks from Jewish teens, the Jewish Children’s Museum, riding the subway, and the Mitzvah Tank.

One local teen delegate commented, “There was something just so special about keeping Shabbos together with 5,000 other teens.… When you are in a room with hundreds of other Jews, all singing the same Shabbos songs, it feels like something that’s out of this world.”

The closing ceremony focused on the Shabbaton’s theme of Shine On — that the world and Israel can count on us to serve our people, especially in these most pressing times — and ended with a concert by Noam Buskilla and Lipa.

simchas

Milo Caplan

Milo Caplan was called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah on April 5, 2025. Milo is in the seventh grade at Bak Middle School of the Arts, where he is majoring in Communications. While born in New York City (and he loves referring to himself as a New Yorker), Milo has called Palm Beach Gardens home for the past nine years. He loves the beach and outdoors, hanging with family and friends, collecting baseball cards, volunteering at Peggy Adams and Petco, and cheering for the Miami Heat in his free time.

Send us your simchas! The Jewish Voice welcomes announcements of life-cycle events in the local Jewish community. The copy deadline is the 15th of the month. Send text and images to bernstein.wendy@gmail.com.

aLL about Kids

Local Students Participate in JewQ Contest

Chabad of Palm Beach Gardens Hebrew School recently staged a game show and award ceremony to honor JewQ contestants, who have participated in an extracurricular Torah championship this academic year. Students pushed themselves to learn Judaic studies to participate in the JewQ championship, the spelling bee of Torah.

The program included a game show in which participants answered questions from across their extensive curriculum. During the three rounds, participants had to express answers in a different way. First they had to display the correct letter card to the multiple choice questions that appeared on the screen, then they used red and green glow sticks to indicate answers. The final round included a frantic 60-second competition in which participants had to list as many correct answers to the question as possible.

Estate Planning for Collectors and Hobbyists

By Anné DesormierCartwright, JD, Esq.

Americans often prefer to stay busy. When we are not working, many of us turn to hobbies to keep us engaged and productive. We spend hours each day on our hobbies and leisure activities. Over the course of a lifetime, this time adds up to a significant investment.

Our hobbies, passion projects, and pursuits may also represent large investments of money, resources, and emotions. Therefore, they should often be included in an estate plan.

Whether you are a collector of classic cars or comic books, an artist or craftsperson with a studio full of valuable equipment, a musician who owns prized instruments, or someone who never outgrew their vintage toys and board games, estate planning helps to preserve your cherished items and make them part of your legacy.

Hobbies Growing in Importance to Americans

We define ourselves largely by how we spend our time. For many Americans, wasted time amounts to wasted potential.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics 2023 Time Use Survey, Americans spend about five hours a day on leisure activities and hobbies.1 Another survey of Americans taken during the COVID-19 pandemic found that 6 in 10 had adopted a new hobby as they were left with more spare time and nowhere to go.2 Common new hobbies ranged from baking or cooking to reading, arts and crafts, and photography.

While some of our pandemic pastimes have already fallen by the wayside, others are likely to persist because there is an inherent payoff when we gain knowledge or learn a new skill and continue to improve at it.

That payoff may be more than just the personal satisfaction of mastering a skill. Nearly half of those who took up a new pandemic hobby turned it into a side hustle that earned them extra money. 3 And an additional onequarter of those with new hobbies said they hoped to turn their new hobby into a form of income in the future.4

When Passion Turns Profitable

Happiness may be priceless, but many of the things that make us happy have a price tag attached to them.

Maybe you did not start a hobby or collection to make money. Tales abound about boyhood baseball card collections and antiquing finds that turned out to be worth millions of dollars. Coins, comic books, stamps, books, toys, action figures, records, cars, dolls, furniture, and even vintage bakeware have commanded impressive prices that, in some cases, belie their appearance and original purpose.

Other hobbyists and collectors approach their passion with pecuniary interests squarely in mind. Collecting sports memorabilia, for example, has exploded into a billion-dollar industry akin to the fine-art market. In 2023, the collectibles market as a whole, driven by online marketplaces and digital auctions, was estimated at nearly $500 billion and growing.5

For others, a private passion can turn into a life’s work, like it did for Jim Irsay, the NFL’s Indianapolis Colts owner, or Joel Platt, a renowned sports memorabilia collector. These men have gone to great lengths to preserve their collections for posterity. Irsay takes his diverse collections of historic artifacts, featuring items from sports, pop culture, literature, and American history, on the road and shows them off for free.6 Platt’s collection is currently housed in a showcase museum in Boca Raton.7

LiFestyLes

Like collectors, many of the most famous artists started out pursuing a passion they never expected to get rich from, only to have their works later sold for a small fortune.

While he was alive, Vincent van Gogh sold a single painting in 1890 for a meager 400 francs,8 or about $2,670 in today’s U.S. dollars. In 1990, one of his paintings sold for $83 million at auction.9

Then there’s fashion icon Coco Chanel, whose inspiration to design clothes for women out of practical necessity launched one of the world’s best-known clothing brands. Her first fashion success came from a dress she made from an old jersey.10 Today, the Chanel brand is valued at around $20 billion.11

Protecting and Preserving Your Passion

Most of us may not reach the heights of Van Gogh, Irsay, Platt, or Chanel in our hobbyist or artistic pursuits. However, that does not mean our passions are without value and that we should not take steps to ensure our sweat equity is an investment in our legacy.

Estate planning is essential not only for financial and family considerations but also for those with serious, lifelong projects. The things that define you in life can continue to define you in death when you plan properly. Here are some steps you can take now so that your loved ones know exactly what to do with the things that matter most to you.

• Inventory and document. Start by creating a detailed inventory of the items in your collection or related to your hobby. The inventory should include descriptions, photographs, certificates of authenticity, provenance (ownership history), conditions, insurance information, care instructions, and other documentation that can help an estate executor or trustee manage and distribute them. Have physical and digital copies of your inventory and related documents stored in safe locations (e.g., a safe deposit box or encrypted cloud storage) that you have ensured key loved ones can access after your passing. Review and update your inventory regularly. A good time to do so is when you update your estate plan every few years or when significant changes occur in your or your family’s life, or to your financial situation or your collection.

• Get a professional appraisal. Obtain professional appraisals to find out the current market value of what you own, including the final product and the equipment and raw materials used to make it. For example, if you have a shop where you make furniture, get the furniture and the woodworking machinery appraised. Hobbyists might have vintage or rare supplies and materials, such as reclaimed wood, which can also be valuable.

• Talk to your family. A common estate planning mistake is to put everything in writing but never discuss your plans with the people who will be affected by them. For example, your loved ones might be aware that you wrote in your spare time or have a large book collection, but do they appreciate how much these works mean to you? Do they know what inspired your love of the written word, your personal journey with it, and how it helped to define you? Unless you share these details with others, the things that were the most personally meaningful to you might be regarded by your loved ones as just more stuff they must go through when you die.

• Decide how to distribute. Do you want to give what you have in its entirety to a single person, divide it among multiple loved ones, donate it to charity, or sell it — or do you prefer some combination of these options? Your decision will be based on the items themselves and whether there is anybody who might want them. A family member or friend with the same interests might be a good fit. A loved one who does not want them might end up selling them anyway, so you can sell them now, make plans for your estate or a dealer to sell them and distribute the proceeds following your death, or make a lifetime gift (or series of gifts).

• Put your wishes in an estate plan. All your conversations, preparations, and evaluations could be for naught if you do not clearly and legally describe your wishes in an estate plan. Suppose that you have your treasured comic book collection professionally appraised and documented. You have this information stored in a locked box, and you regularly update it. There is only one problem: You never formally documented your plan for your collection in a will or trust. You may have casually discussed your plans with

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family, but absent a formal estate plan, there is no guarantee it will come to fruition.

Remember that you can get creative with your estate plan. Although you may never get to display your artwork at a museum, for instance, you could arrange to have a private viewing of your art or collectibles for friends and family in addition to, or instead of, a traditional funeral or celebration of life arrangement.

Celebrate your life’s work however you want—just make sure to plan ahead and get everything in writing.

A Serious Passion Deserves Serious Planning

The things we create and collect form a core part of our identity. They mark our existence long after we are gone. You cannot take it with you. However, you can make it a part of your legacy with an estate plan.

Only a written estate plan makes your wishes legally binding. Do not be the person whose family finds a valuable collection in a dusty corner of the attic and does not know what to do with it, fights over who should receive what, or overlooks its importance and throws it away or donates it.

You put serious time into your hobby or collection. Keep the passion alive and inspire the next generation with an estate plan that gives your life’s work the treatment it deserves. Talk to one of our estate planning attorneys today.

If you have questions about your estate plan and what documents you should have in place to plan your estate, schedule a free consultation today by calling our office at

(561) 694-7827, Anné Desormier-Cartwright, Esq., Elder and Estate Planning Attorneys PA, 480 Maplewood Drive, Suite 3, Jupiter, FL 33458.

The content of this article is general and should not be relied upon without review of your specific circumstances by competent legal counsel. Reliance on the information herein is at your own risk, as it expresses no opinion by the firm on your specific circumstances or legal needs. An attorney client relationship is not created through the information provided herein.

To comply with the U.S. Treasury regulations, we must inform you that (i) any U.S. federal tax advice contained in this newsletter was not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, by any person for the purpose of avoiding U.S. federal tax penalties that may be imposed on such person and (ii) each taxpayer should seek advice from their tax advisor based on the taxpayer’s particular circumstances.

1 American Time Use Survey News Release, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (June 27, 2024), https://www.bls.gov/news. release/atus.htm#:~:text=Leisure%20and%20Sports%20 Activities%20in,%2C%20compared%20with%204.8%20 hours.

2 Matt Schulz, 53% Who Took on a Pandemic Hobby Went Into Credit Card Debt as a Result, LendingTree (April 6, 2021), https://www.lendingtree.com/credit-cards/study/ quarantine-hobbies-credit-card-debt.

3 Id.

4 Id.

5 Collectibles Market in 2024 was estimated at $492.6

Billion, Annual Growth 9.2%: Research by Market Decipher, Yahoo!Finance (May 9, 2024), https://finance.yahoo.com/news/ collectibles-market-2024-estimated-492-103200953.html.

6 Stephen Holder, Why Colts owner Jim Irsay refused over $1B for his collection, ESPN (July 14, 2023), https://www. espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/37969744/why-colts-owner-jimirsay-refused-1b-collection.

7 Ana Veciana-Suarez, Joel Platt and his Dream Collection, Intelligent Collector, https://intelligentcollector.com/joelplatt-and-his-dream-collection (last visited Dec. 18, 2024).

8 Brian Boucher, Art Bites: The Only Known Painting Van Gogh Sold During His Lifetime, Artnet (Feb. 13, 2024), https://news.artnet.com/art-world/story-only-knownpainting-van-gogh-sold-2432275#:~:text=Belgian%20 painter%20Anna%20Boch%2C%20a,either%20350%20 or%20400%20francs.

9 Martin Bailey, The ten most expensive Vincent van Gogh paintings , The Art Newspaper (April 29, 2022), https:// www.theartnewspaper.com/2022/04/29/the-ten-mostexpensive-van-gogh-paintings.

10 Coco Chanel, Biography (Dec. 10, 2021), https://www. biography.com/history-culture/coco-chanel.

11 Tugba Sabanoglu, Brand value of Chanel worldwide from 2017 to 2023 (in million U.S. dollars), Statista (Feb. 22, 2024), https://www.statista.com/statistics/1010860/chanelbrand-value-worldwide/#:~:text=In%202023%2C%20 Chanel’s%20worldwide%20brand,the%20most%20 recently%20reported%20period.

Lifestyles on page 18

The Salty Zebra Bistro: Where European Tradition Meets Florida’s Fresh Ingredients

Adding a fresh dimension to Tequesta’s evolving culinary landscape, The Salty Zebra Bistro brings something delightfully different to the table. The restaurant offers a reimagined approach to bistro classics that honors tradition while playfully pushing boundaries, complementing the area’s existing dining options with its own distinctive character.

The creative force behind this exceptional establishment is Executive Chef and partner David Chapman, whose impressive pedigree includes heading the kitchen at Daisies, a Michelin-recognized pasta destination in Chicago, and serving as executive chef at Green Zebra (recipient of a Michelin Green Star for sustainability). His diverse background informs every aspect of The Salty Zebra’s menu, where European techniques merge seamlessly with locally sourced ingredients.

“We wanted to create something different for the area,” explains Seamus O’Brien, who co-owns the restaurant with wife Stephanie and Chef David. “A place that respects culinary traditions but isn’t afraid to have some fun with them.”

That philosophy manifests brilliantly in dishes like their Burgundy escargot, which adheres to classical preparation with a Pernod garlic-parsley butter, and an 18-hour bone beef broth French onion soup that would make Parisian bistro chefs nod in approval. Yet the menu also reveals Chapman’s innovative spirit in dishes like the dry-aged honey-glazed duck breast and their interpretation of steak frites –a perfectly grilled picanha steak served with triple-cooked parmesan potato wedges and cognac-bone marrow au poivre sauce.

Rotating specials feature whatever is freshest from local waters, from grilled swordfish to their tuna tartare, a playful riff on steak tartare complete with capers, cornichon, and quail egg.

Vegetarians will find The Salty Zebra particularly accommodating, reflecting Chapman’s passion for plant-based cuisine honed during his years at Green Zebra. “Creating thoughtful vegetarian dishes is about celebrating vegetables rather than just removing meat,” Chapman explains. This philosophy is evident in standout dishes like local lion’s mane mushrooms with Malaysian curry and coconut squash velouté. “Our vegetarian dishes are designed to be stars on the menu, not afterthoughts.”

Even desserts receive the same attention to detail, with options like coconut rice pudding with caramelized local fruit, frosted pistachios, and passionfruit sorbet. The Valrhona chocolate tart finished with local banana and cassis sorbet exemplifies their commitment to combining world-class ingredients with local touches.

feel equally comfortable celebrating special occasions or enjoying a casual weeknight dinner. A carefully curated wine list features unique selections from both Old and New World producers, many unavailable elsewhere in the area.

Value-conscious diners will appreciate the daily four-course prix fixe menu for $45, available from 5-6 PM, alongside happy hour specials. The restaurant has also introduced themed evenings, including “Bubbles and Pearls” Tuesdays, where Chef David personally shucks oysters in the lounge – offering a halfdozen of three varieties with a flight of bubbles for $30, plus $2 individual oysters all night.

Wine enthusiasts should note the upcoming collaboration with locally-owned Wine Proxy for a special five-course wine dinner on April 7th, with limited seating available.

The Salty Zebra isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel, but rather to remind us why we fell in love with the bistro concept in the first place – honest, skillfully prepared food served in a warm, welcoming environment. That they’ve managed to do so while adding their own distinctive flourishes makes them not just a welcome addition to Tequesta’s dining scene, but an essential one.

The bistro’s commitment to quality is evident in every aspect of the operation. All pastas are made fresh daily in-house, including a standout lentil ravioli served with house-made Italian sausage, broccolini, and Marcelli Formaggi pecorino, finished with 12-year balsamic vinegar. The seafood program shines in dishes like their local red snapper with butter poached Key West pink shrimp, sweet corn bisque, and andouille – a clever Florida take on a traditional seafood boil.

The Salty Zebra’s appeal extends beyond its food. The atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between sophisticated and relaxed – a convivial bistro environment where diners

Tip of the Tail

Early Labwork Can Detect Kidney Insufficiency

Chronic kidney insufficiency is one of the most common diseases affecting older pets, especially cats. Many causes exist for chronic kidney insufficiency, with age-related kidney deterioration being one of the more common. Chronic kidney insufficiency indicates that a condition called azotemia has been present for months or years. When azotemia is present, toxins have accumulated in the bloodstream, and labwork will indicate abnormalities. Approximately 70 percent of kidney function must be lost before labwork abnormalities are noted. Azotemia does not necessarily mean a pet is experiencing a reduced quality of life, but with uremia the patient is exhibiting clinical signs of kidney disease and may be reducing their quality of life. The goal in treatment of chronic kidney insufficiency is to prevent, postpone, or resolve uremia, to ensure the pet experiences the best possible quality of life. Azotemia associated with chronic kidney insufficiency may not be reversible.

The kidneys perform several important functions:

1.) Filtering waste products, primarily urea and creatinine

2.) Regulating electrolytes, including sodium, potassium, phosphorus, and calcium

3.) Producing erythropoietin, which helps stimulate bone marrow to produce red blood cells

4.) Producing renin, which helps control blood pressure

5.) Producing and concentrating urine

When kidney function begins to decline, waste products accumulate in the blood, electrolyte imbalances occur, anemia

can develop, blood pressure problems may occur, and urine concentration decreases. Decreases in urine concentration is an early sign of kidney insufficiency.

Clinical signs of chronic kidney insufficiency can be vague and may mimic other diseases. The most common symptoms usually noted are increased thirst and increased urination, with other symptoms including decreased appetite, vomiting, weight loss, and poor hair coat. These symptoms may be slowly progressive, and, if mild, may go unnoticed by a pet owner. Labwork may reveal abnormalities before obvious clinical signs are evident, which may allow treatment to be initiated sooner and provide the best quality of life for the pet.

Several treatment options can be utilized to help pets with chronic kidney insufficiency maintain a good quality of life. Special prescription diets are a primary means to help maintain appropriate protein levels, certain electrolyte levels, and a better, longer quality of life. These diets are available through veterinarians. Another treatment option is fluid therapy, either subcutaneous or intravenous. Subcutaneous fluids, which are placed under a pet’s skin, can be used at home or in the clinic to help maintain hydration; subcutaneous fluids can be utilized long-term to help with quality of life. Some pets will benefit from subcutaneous fluids up to several times a week, while others may need fluids less often. Intravenous fluids are usually reserved for pets who need more aggressive fluid therapy. Some pets with chronic kidney insufficiency may have blood pressure issues, and these pets may benefit from blood pressure medications. Depending on the chronicity and severity of kidney insufficiency, pets can experience anemia. If this occurs, medication may be needed to help correct the anemia.

Chronic kidney insufficiency is a common disease in older animals; however, pets can live with a good quality of life for many years after diagnosis, with proper management. Annual labwork may reveal indications of chronic kidney insufficiency well before a pet shows clinical signs. Please check with your veterinarian to see if your pet is due for his or her labwork.

Established in 1981, Palm City Animal Medical Center is dedicated to providing the best possible care for your pets. With focuses on compassionate care in surgery, physical therapy and rehabilitation, preventative medicine, extensive diagnostics, and emergency service, Palm City Animal Medical Center combines exceptional medical care with a caring philosophy for pets and their owners. For more information, call 772-2830920, visit www.palmcityanimalmedicalcenter.com, or find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/PalmCityAnimalClinic.

Financial

Time for Some Financial Spring Cleaning

By Sally Sima Stahl

Spring is here — which means it’s once again time to wash the windows, organize your cabinets, and steam your carpets. This year, in addition to tidying up around your house, why not also consider some financial spring cleaning?

Here are some suggestions to consider:

• “De-clutter” your investment portfolio. When you embark on your home cleaning mission, you might notice that you have redundancies — three blenders, two vacuum cleaners, and so on. Similarly, you might find duplications in your investment portfolio, perhaps in the form of multiple, near-identical stocks or mutual funds. If so, it might be worthwhile to consider selling some of these investments and using the proceeds to boost your portfolio in other areas in which you may be lacking.

• Cut back on “overgrown” investments. Now that winter is over and you’re venturing outside more, you may notice some overgrown shrubbery or tree branches that need pruning. And while it may sound counterintuitive, you might also have some investments that have grown too big for your needs. For example, you might own some growth-oriented investments whose value has increased so much that they now take up a larger percentage of your portfolio — and carry a higher degree of risk — than you originally intended. If that’s the case, you might be better off by selling some of these investments and purchasing others to help bring your investment mix back to its desired alignment.

• Dust off your investment strategy. With more sunlight now pouring in your house, you might notice that the corners of your walls and ceiling may need a good dusting. And as you continually work to strengthen your financial foundation, you may need to dust off your investment strategy, especially if you’ve recently experienced

Lifestyles on page 19

Lifestyles from page 18

changes in your life, such as a marriage, addition of children, new job, and so on. And as you move closer to retirement, you may also need to adjust your strategy in some ways. For one thing, you might want to adopt a more conservative investment approach in the years immediately preceding your retirement, though you’ll still need to have some growth potential in your portfolio to help keep you ahead of inflation.

• Protect yourself from financial dangers. As you go about your household spring cleaning, you may find actual physical dangers that need to be removed or stored more safely, such as sharp objects or broken tools. And as you navigate daily life, you may also find threats to your financial safety — the need for an expensive home improvement, a major car repair, or an unexpectedly large medical bill. If you don’t have the money available to pay these expenses, you might be forced to dip into your retirement accounts or run up your credit card or take out a high-rate loan. To protect yourself from having to make these moves, you may want to maintain an emergency fund containing several months’ worth of living expenses, with the money kept in a liquid account, separate from those you use for your daily living expenses.

Of course, some of these moves can take some time — but by getting started on them soon, you can help put your financial house in better shape by the time the next spring cleaning rolls around.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor, Edward Jones, Member SIPC.

Edward Jones is a licensed insurance producer in all states and Washington, DC, through Edward D. Jones & Co., LP, and in California, New Mexico, and Massachusetts through Edward Jones Insurance Agency of California, LLC; Edward Jones Insurance Agency of New Mexico, LLC; and Edward Jones Insurance Agency of Massachusetts, LLC.

Edward Jones, its employees, and financial advisors cannot provide tax advice. You should consult your qualified tax advisor regarding your situation.

Contact us at (561) 748-7600, Sally Sima Stahl, CFP®, AAMS™, 1851 W. Indiantown Road, Ste. 106, Jupiter, FL 33458.

Spinal Stenosis FAQs

• Medicine to reduce swelling

• Spinal injections to decrease inflammation

Dr. J. Manuel Sarmiento

Spinal stenosis is fairly common. Degenerative spinal changes affect up to 95 percent of people by the age of 50, and spinal stenosis is one of these changes. For people over 65 undergoing spine surgery, lumbar spinal stenosis is the most common diagnosis. An estimated 200,000 Americans suffer from lumbar spinal stenosis. It’s more prevalent in the elderly population but can also affect younger individuals.

J. Manuel Sarmiento, MD, an experienced neurosurgeon at Cleveland Clinic Weston Hospital, answers frequently asked questions about spinal stenosis.

Q: What is spinal stenosis?

A: Spinal stenosis is narrowing around the spinal cord and/or nerves. Lumbar stenosis is narrowing of the nerves in the lower back. This may produce leg pain (sciatica), leg numbness, or possibly leg weakness. Cervical stenosis is pressure on the spinal cord or nerves in the neck. This may result in arm pain, numbness, weakness, difficulty writing, and even walking abnormalities.

Q: What causes spinal stenosis?

• Aging

• Genetics

• Congenitally narrow spinal canal

• Smoking

• Osteoarthritis

Q: How is spinal stenosis treated?

A: There are many treatments for spinal stenosis, both surgical and non-surgical. Every patient is unique and therefore treatment needs to be unique as well. When considering surgery, there are many factors that need to be taken into account. It is important to meet with a spinal neurosurgeon for a comprehensive evaluation and treatment recommendations. Non-surgical treatments include:

• Medicine to relieve pain

• Activity modification

• Exercises and/or physical therapy

Surgical treatments for cervical spinal stenosis include:

• Microsurgical decompression of nerves

• Spinal laminoplasty — non-fusion spinal restoration

• Posterior spinal fusion using 3d computer-assisted technology

• Anterior cervical fusion

• Artificial disc replacement

Surgical treatments for lumbar spinal stenosis include:

• Microsurgical decompression of nerves

• Spinal fusion for stabilization using several various approaches

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Sarmiento or another Cleveland Clinic neurosurgeon in Florida, call 877.463.2010. Visit ClevelandClinicFlorida.org/neuro for more information.

arts & entertainment

Book Review

The Light Eaters: How the Unseen World of Plant Intelligence Offers a New Understanding of Life on Earth

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.

Of the more than 200 books that I have reviewed in this column in what is now its 19th year, only a half dozen have affected me in a life-changing way. I cannot promise that it will do the same for many of this column’s readers, but for those who share my profound interest in the vast diversity of life with which we share this planet—and who are willing to be open-minded about what the most recent science is discovering—this is a book that will make you think … with a capital T.H.I.N.K.!

It was inevitable that I would someday be captivated by this area of interest. I grew up as a child living in New York just one city block from the wondrous Bronx Zoo, close

THERE’S

enough to hear the lions roar for their dinner every afternoon when I returned home from elementary school, and I walked the zoo from end to end hundreds of times. The famed New York Botanical Gardens were also only a short walk away. Little did I know then that there was far more constant interaction and communication between the “residents” of that beautiful attraction than at the zoo.

In 2016 I reviewed for this column a book, Sex on Six Legs , a nonfiction report on insects and what scientists have learned about their aspects of memory, decisionmaking and free will. It was fascinating.

A year later, in Gift from the Crow: How Perception, Emotion and Thought Allow Birds to Think Like Us , the author pointed out that these birds often outscore human children in tests designed to measure intelligence.

In that same year, primatologist and ethologist Frans de Waal’s Are We Smart Enough to Know How Smart Animals Are? won for its author a major award for demonstrating parallel behavior between humans and primates in the aspects of empathy, morality and justice.

Later, Sy Montgomery’s international bestseller, The Soul of an Octopus, made a worldwide splash by revealing the stunning cognitive abilities of these undersea geniuses.

But it was with the publication of The Hidden Life of Trees by Peter Wohlleben, the head of Europe’s largest natural forest located in Germany, that this evolving life-changing experience reached a high point for me. To discover that what I had always thought of as “inanimate, unconscious” life forms were actually very much alive in the sense of communication with the other trees around them—as just one example, warning them of attacking insects so that those other trees could immediately protect themselves by sending poison into their own leaves to kill the specific invading species—was enough to turn me into a believer. And that was just the beginning. The statement that “there are more life form organisms in one handful of soil under a tree than there are people in the entire world” is a fact that even I, by now a convert to the new sciences, can barely comprehend.

To her credit, the author of The Light Eaters —Zoe Schlanger, an award-winning science writer for the Atlantic magazine, Time, Newsweek, The Nation, The New York Times and other publications—presents her subject on the assumption that many, if not most, of her readers will approach it as skeptics, not quite prepared to accept the idea of coupling plants together with such concepts as “intelligence,” “decision-making,” “consciousness,” “seeing,” “hearing” and other capabilities.

The result is a book that is organized as the author’s report on the most current studies and experiments in botanical science around the world based on her own travels—meeting with leading botanic scientists, witnessing their work from laboratories to forests, jungles, deep underground caves, wherever it leads, discovering

Samantha Fisher, M.D., F.A.A.D., sees patients of all ages at the Dermatology Associates in the Palm Beach Gardens office after more than 13 years of experience practicing medical, cosmetic dermatology and Mohs surgery for skin cancer treatment.

Dr. Fisher received her Medical and Bachelor of Science degrees with honors from the University of Florida, where she completed her postgraduate training, including serving as Chief Resident in Dermatology.

Her past professional experience includes providing Dermatology services to patients in Stuart , FL from 2013-2024, Naples, FL from 2012-2013, and as Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Florida Department of Dermatology in Gainesville, FL from 2011-2012.

Dr. Fisher looks forward to providing you with excellent dermatology care.

with them the most extraordinary and surprising facts of plant life—then describing all of it in these pages so clearly and convincingly that even the most skeptical reader will find it difficult to deny the miracles of nature that have surrounded all of us, all our lives, without our awareness and appreciation.

There are so many such examples that to offer just a few here seems unfair and almost counter-productive, but the following “tease” will lead to my comments about the author’s final chapter.

Plants obviously do not have ears. But after many experiences indicating that plants can somehow “hear,” two of the scientists decided to test Arabidopsis (a weedy mustard plant) by playing the sounds of several different objects, including something that would surely eat it: a cabbage white caterpillar. When they had the leaves analyzed in a lab, they found that only as a response to the sound of the caterpillar chewing did the leaves discharge a chemical defense compound.

• Plants also have the same ability to communicate warnings to their neighboring plants about such dangers as insect invasions that trees in a natural forest do, as referred to above in this review.

• Boquila trifoliata is a simple-looking plant, a vine with bright-green oval leaves in groups of three, like a clover or a common bean. A Peruvian ecologist, Ernesto Gianoli, had discovered that this common “chameleon” rain forest vine was capable of doing what no other plant could do: “It could, quite spontaneously, morph into the shape of almost any plant it grew beside. … A research group in Germany felt sure this incredible mimicry implied the plant could see. How else could it accurately reproduce the texture, the vein pattern the shape, of a neighboring leaf?”

In this book’s final chapter—one of the most thoughtful, well-reasoned and compelling writing I have come across in a long time—the author addresses her readers’ likely initial skepticism directly and responds with understanding and a logic that I found irrefutable.

I will quote here just two paragraphs from that chapter’s 20 pages:

“At the end of the day, whether or not plants are intelligent is a social question, not a scientific one. Science will continue to find that plants are doing more than we’d imagined. But then the rest of us will have a look at the data and come to our own conclusions. How will we interpret the new knowledge? How will we fit it into our beliefs about life on earth? That is the exciting part. Perhaps we will see them as the animate creatures they are.

“But what happens then? Underlying all this is the deeper question, the one that matters most: What will we do with this new understanding? There are two directions to go in: we do nothing at all, and carry on as before, or we change our relationship with plants. At what point do plants enter the gates of our regard? When are they allowed in to the realm of our ethical consideration? Is it when they have language? When they have family structures? When they make allies and enemies, have preferences, plan ahead? When we find they can remember? They seem, indeed, to have all these characteristics. It’s now our choice whether to let that reality in. To let plants in.”

In recommending this book to you I have planted the seed. Whether you have the desire to grow—as a plant surely does—is up to you.

Arts & Entertainment from page 22

Dermatology Associates of the Palm Beaches is a group practice of board-certified dermatologists and fellowship-trained Mohs surgeons providing general dermatology, surgical dermatology, and cosmetic dermatology services. These physicians trained at some of America’s great medical institutions and conduct research into the most advanced treatments. Our physicians are also recognized leaders in the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer.

Make an appointment to see Dr. Fisher in Palm Beach Gardens at 10355 N. Military Trail, Suite A, by calling (561) 622-6976. www.greatderms.com

Film Review: The Storied Life of A. J. Fikry

By Nils A. Shapiro

There are two reasons for my having selected this film to review in this month’s column, neither of which is my certainty that you will fully enjoy it.

The first is that the writer of the screenplay, Gabrielle Zevin, was born and raised in Boca Raton and graduated from Spanish River Community High School in 1996. She graduated from Harvard University in 2000, having concentrated on American Literature, then adapted the screenplay from her own 2014 national bestseller of the same title and has become an award-winning author of several bestselling books.

The second reason I enjoyed The Storied Life of A. J. Fikry is its subject matter—the story of a bookseller and his world—and anyone who is a regular reader of my monthly Book Review column knows that says it all!

My one hesitation is that the film received mixed reviews when released in 2022, so I will inform you of that up front and leave to you the decision of whether or not to view this film now streaming on Netflix.

The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry was directed by Hans Canosa, who has since become married to the author/ screenwriter.

Kunal Nayyar stars in the role of A.J. Fikry, owner of a bookstore in the lovely, scenic town of Alice Island on Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Bearded and kind of scruffy looking, when we first meet him he is being visited by a young woman, Amelia “Amy” Loman, the new sales representative of a book publishing company. She is there to present the new season’s titles but is treated rather rudely by the impatient Fikry, who complains that business is slow and ignores her suggestions about the potential of certain of her favorite new titles.

It soon becomes clear that the bookstore is in disarray, the shelves overcrowded and a mess, the owner himself drowning in alcohol and in the process losing a rare, valuable copy of “Tamerlane” he had been saving for a future financial need. (We learn later the truth about what happened to that book.)

But there is more on Alice Island that is in disarray than just the bookstore and A.J. Fikry’s life; the film

explores these others as well: how his life changes when a 2-year-old girl, Maya, is abandoned in his bookstore and the mother is found dead; his sister-in-law, Ismay’s, husband dies in a car crash; the pregnant wife of an author learns that her husband has been cheating on her; Fikry’s relationship with the young book sales rep he treated poorly takes a dramatic turn toward feelings he had not expected…and much more that if described more fully here would act as “spoilers.”

For me, the seven years covered in the film—and the emotional ending—brought forth enough involving moments to make this very much a worthwhile experience. I believe many of you will feel the same and I shall consider this review an homage to a Boca Raton Spanish River Community High School graduate who has made us all proud.

Essays on Life:

The Changing of the Seasons

By Sonia E. Ravech Winters

in my home State of Massachusetts are stark. The air is damp and cold. Limbs of the barren trees resemble spiders’ legs reaching towards the overcast sky. The ground is frozen and cracked. Lawns have turned to straw. The environment is almost colorless, grey, white and drab.

Everyone looks forward to the first signs of Spring when the tree limbs start to bud, crocuses push up through the earth, lawns emit a hint of green and the golden sun breaks through exposing a blue sky. The change of seasons is easily evident. But how does one distinguish the change in an environment such as Florida where the grass and trees are always green, colorful flowers continually dot the landscape, and the sun and bright blue sky are taken for granted? I suggest we look to our feathered friends, the birds.

The advent of Spring ushers in the mating season. The flocks appear larger, their activities more frenzied. The trills and chirps are louder and more frequent as the males attempt to lure female companions. The females can be seen darting back and forth from ground to bush with slivers of straw between their beaks from which to fashion their nests, providing a safe and warm environment for their eggs and eventual newborn hatchlings.

Spring is the season of renewal, when nature reminds us of God’s miracles. Just as folks in Massachusetts are reassured each year that lawns will return to their lush green color, the leaves on the trees will burst open revealing their shading canopies, flowers will bloom and the sun will spread its warmth and glow, so too are Floridians reminded that Spring is the time for rebirth. The circle of life will continue.